THE initiation of construction for the long-awaited Datu Bago monument has been hindered by the lack of available land space, according to a representative from the Davao Historical Society Inc. (DHS).
Patmei Ruivivar, board director of DHS, explained that the monument, which has been in the planning stages for quite some time, is currently searching for a suitable location to commence its construction.
"I think the difficulty with the Datu Bago monument is the location because a lot of like some historians, sabi nila, that it would be more meaningful if it's doon sa kung saan si Datu Bago nag-settle or sa'n siya una dumating (The challenge with the Datu Bago monument lies in finding the right location. Some historians believe that it would carry greater significance if it were situated where Datu Bago settled or initially arrived)," Ruivivar said.
While potential sites such as Osmeña Park and an area near Bankerohan Public Market have been considered, the lack of available space has posed a challenge, as the monument's placement could disrupt the movement of people in these areas.
Ruivivar suggested that the pending city ordinance for establishing the Davao City Office for the Culture and the Arts could reinvigorate plans for constructing the Datu Bago monument.
Meanwhile, Director Amy Cabusao emphasized the importance of honoring Datu Bago to revive Davao's historical legacy.
"He (Datu Bago) is very important because we need a hero to look up to, and we need someone that unites us to a certain dream… we have to be together; we have to have a united vision for Davao City," Cabusao said.
Datu Bago, a local chieftain, played a pivotal role in defending the region against Spanish incursions in 1848, as highlighted by the City Government of Davao's official website. He led the resistance against the Spaniards led by Don Jose Uyanguren.
In 2018, the 18th Davao City Council passed an ordinance officially recognizing Datu Bago as a hero of Davao City. (ICE)
