THERE is something more festive with the Hijos de Davao celebration this year. Do we give credit to the presence of the Malacañang VIPs gracing the affair? The infusion of the colorful Mindanao fashion into the program? The more elegant set-up of the ballroom? The professional direction of the program from the host to the good choice of musical performer?
I say all of the above.
But those are just the ornamentation to the spirit of the Davaoeños, who, after 53 years, have kept the tradition of camaraderie and civic missions alive. With the blessings of Davao’s Patron Saint, San Pedro, the heart of Hijos de Davao is beating as passionately as it did on its first day of conception.
This year’s muse, Anette Josephine Salonga Tionko, is a 6th generation Dabawenya. She is the second child of three children and the only daughter of Thomas Tionko and Marissa Salonga.
“The experience is surreal. I have been attending the Hijos de Davao celebrations for years now and witnessed muses go up on stage. I can’t believe it’s my turn this year,” said the 17-year old Anette.
Her escort is 18-year old Robertino Soriano Roque, son of Margarita Soriano and Raul Roque.
There was a good balance of attendees representing different generations. This just shows how the HdD tradition is successfully getting passed to the younger Davaoeños.
As it was during its conception, the scene is back to glamor. Everyone in the ballroom is dressed appropriately to the occasion—gowns and long dresses, Barong Tagalogs and suits.
This year, the best dressed women will be awarded with a gift certificate each for an overnight stay for two at Davao’s best addresses: Pearl Farm Beach Resort, Marco Polo Davao, SEDA Abreeza, Waterfront Insular Hotel, Park Inn by Radisson and Royal Mandaya Hotel. Good luck, ladies!
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