Kasadya Park, the first ever community-designed park in Davao City to be developed at Davao Executive Homes in Matina Crossing officially broke ground over the weekend.
The ceremony, which was highlighted with the planting of native flowering tree seedlings such as “malabulak,” was graced by Councilor Temujin ‘Tek’ Ocampo, Barangay Captain Joel Santes, Architect Jim Palma of United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) -Kadayawan Dabaw Chapter, purok officials, Davao Design Society (DDS), Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS), guests, and residents of the area.
The establishment of the park aims to provide a recreational space for the community while promoting environmental sustainability.
“For the residents, creating a recreational and environmentally friendly park is a dream come true,” said IDIS executive director Mark Peñalver.
He also said this is the first community-designed park in Davao City thru placemaking, which is a planning approach capitalizing on the local community’s assets, inspiration, and potential.
“Through placemaking, we create public spaces that improve urban livability, people’s health, happiness, and well-being. We conducted a placemaking workshop with the Davao Executive Homeowners Association. We let them envision and design a park that they would want. Tapos si Arch. Jim Palma ang naginterpret/illustrate sa design. So, it is a community-designed park,” Peñalver said.
Peñalver said the budget for its development is from IDIS through its funding agency MISEREOR.
“But we will also raise funds thru sponsorship. For more collaboration,” he said.
IDIS said the groundbreaking ceremony marked the first step towards enhancing the community’s overall well-being, presenting an opportunity for physical activity, social interaction, and a deep appreciation for the environment.
Its development is through the partnership with the UAP – Kadayawan Dabaw Chapter, Davao Design Society, and the Davao Executive Homes Association (DEHA).
