As part of preparations for its centennial year, the City Hall building will be restored to its original neo-classical appearance to bring back that design elements that reflect its historic roots.
Oscar G. Casaysay, head of the Office of Culture, Arts, and Heritage (OCAH), said on Thursday that the restoration will focus on returning the building to its original white color, repairing its windows, and installing façade lighting to highlight the structure at night.
Casaysay said the project aims to enhance the building’s architectural features while preserving its historical integrity.
Casaysay explained that the plan seeks to closely match the City Hall’s original design, noting that the approved works include both repainting and window restoration.
Lighting will also be added to allow the public to fully appreciate the building’s façade, especially in the evening.
Built in 1926, the centennial structure was designed by National Artist Juan M. Arellano when Davao was still a municipality.
Originally known as the Davao Municipal Hall, the building suffered damage during World War II and underwent renovations in 2017.
Despite these changes, its neo-classical façade has remained largely intact, preserving its historical character.
Arellano’s design later served as a model for other municipal buildings across the country.
Casaysay said the restoration project has undergone consultations and secured approval from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), as well as architects and historians.
He said work is expected to begin by the second week of February.
He emphasized that for a century, City Hall has stood as a silent witness to Davao’s transformation from its early beginnings to its present status symbolizing the resilience and triumphs of the Dabawenyos.
“Kani ang saksi gyud. Ang silent witness na nakakita for 100 years og unsa gyud ang na agihan sa syudad sa Davao. Kung unsa gyud ang atoang syudad bago pa man nahimong syudad ug unsa pa ang historical milestone na nahitabo labi na sa kasaysayan sa Pilipinas, ug sa syudad, ug syempre unsa na sya karon. So mao tung nakita namo pwede pa gyud sya mag barog, 100 more years kung maayo lang gyud ang atoang pag alaga,” Casaysay said.
With proper care and preservation, Casaysay noted that the historic structure could continue to stand for another hundred years.
The restoration is targeted for completion ahead of the Araw ng Davao celebrations, offering residents and visitors a refreshed view of one of the city’s most enduring landmarks as Davao marks 100 years of history.
