THE 55th HIJOS de davao ball
For many, Durianburg is a bustling metropolis with a rich history peppered with colourful characters. In the past though, Davao City was a mere backwater and it was the arrival of families from all over the Philippines and beyond that finally changed the urban and cultural landscape into what it is today. From these pioneering families the Hijos de Davao Foundation was formed to embrace the people who called Davao their home and championing the unique culture and heritage of Davao.
Finding a way to get together and keep the flame of Davao culture flowing, the Hijos de Davao Ball was established. Celebrated on the feast day of the city’s patron saint Peter, the ball is also a way for the old families and new friends to come together.
Already on its 55th iteration, this year’s Hijos de Davao Ball was held at the SMX Convention Center at SM Lanang. A fashion showcase featuring past muses wearing creations by Davao’s top fashion disigners started the evening. This was followed by Honorary consuls Baby Montemayor, Malou Monteverde, Joji Ilagan-Bian and Naty Fortich in the national costumes of nations they represent.
The traditional Rigodon de Honor was performed and the crowning of this year’s muse, Alessandra P. Dominique Allado followed. Every Hijos de Davao muse is the embodiment of Dabawenyo beauty, grace and love of culture.
The daughter of Yuri Cabaguio Allado and Roselle P. Allado, Annika as she is more fondly called, is a recent graduate and Cum Laude of the International School of Manila. She is looking forward to majoring in Mechanical Engineering in Duke University in North Carolina.
The muse was escorted by Caye Alessandro Rabat Francisco. Caye is 18 years old and is a senior high student preparing for a course in Architecture or engineering. His interests include painting, charcoal, sketching, Piano, Takewando, and shot put throwing.
Durianburg may be growing fast with many changes and disruptions, but thanks to the love of heritage and culture coming from the dedicated Hijos de Davao Foundation, one can me sure that the Dabawenyo heart and mind will stay.
