All Hail Durian

Despite its notoriety, the ever-growing demand for durian only proves that it truly is the king of fruits. In Davao City, where the pungent delicacy is grown in farmlands amidst bananas, pineapples, ma

ngoes, and coconuts, both local and foreign demand for durian has prompted the Department of Agriculture to increase the output of the fruit by planting it in 500 hectares in the Baguio district chosen for its climate and fertile volcanic soil.

Every August, Davaoeños hold their annual Kadayawan Festival as a way of uniting the local tribes in celebration of their bountiful harvests. Aside from the parades and street parties, there are events held throughout the month-long festivities that showcase the best of Davao’s produce. Because of the pandemic and threat of another surge due to the entry of new COVID-19 variants, Davao City Tourism Operations Office Head Generose Tecson confirmed that the festivities will again be held online this 2021 like it was last year when the pandemic broke out. 

Of course, the durian will be celebrated during the online festivities. “The durian is also an integral part of the celebration as it is one of Davao City’s four icons,” Tecson reassures. “And August is the season for durian.” 

In the past, durian festivals were held throughout August and early September coinciding with Kadayawan to promote the fruit and help farmers sell their produce. Apart from the plentiful fresh fruit and durian products offered, other activities during the festival are durian eating competitions and a cracking contest where contestants are judged on how quickly they can open the fruit’s thick and prickly skin.

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio issued an executive order last May 24, 2021 prohibiting all non-essential face-to-face events of local and national government offices events and activities, effective until August 31, 2021. Because of this, the usual events will be limited to those that can be enjoyed by watching through the city’s Facebook account and other city government websites.