DAVAO — A new commemorative coin celebrating the Kadayawan Festival has captured the hearts of collectors and Dabawenyos alike. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) launched the Kadayawan Festival Commemorative ₱100 Coin, and it sold out just two hours after its release, making it the fastest-selling coin in the “Pista sa Pilipinas” series.
A Coin That Captures Davao’s Soul
The coin is a tangible tribute to Davao City’s identity, bringing together its most beloved symbols in a single design. At the center stands a Kadayawan dancer in traditional attire, holding a basket of durian, mangosteen, marang, and pomelo. This powerful image celebrates the festival’s core message of thanksgiving for nature’s bounty and cultural richness.
The intricate design goes beyond the central figure. The Waling-waling, the Queen of Philippine Orchids, is rendered in vibrant color, symbolizing the region’s unique flora. In the background, the mighty Philippine Eagle and the majestic Mount Apo stand as enduring icons of Davao’s natural treasures. These elements together create a visual story of a land blessed with abundance and beauty.
Honoring Eleven Cultures
The coin’s border features patterns representing Davao City’s 11 ethnolinguistic cultural communities. This deliberate design choice honors the diverse tribes that make Kadayawan a truly inclusive celebration. The patterns weave a story of unity, reflecting the festival’s theme, “We are one, KadayaONE.”
This inclusion of indigenous patterns elevates the coin from a mere collectible to a symbol of cultural pride. It acknowledges the deep roots of the traditions being celebrated. For many, the coin is a reminder of the rich heritage that binds all Davaoeños together.
A Coveted Collectible
The Kadayawan coin is the eighth release in the BSP’s “Pista sa Pilipinas” Commemorative Coin Series, which features the country’s vibrant festivals. Struck in 99.9% silver, it weighs one troy ounce and has a denomination of ₱100. The selling price was set at ₱5,000 per piece, with a strict limit of one coin per customer to ensure fair access.
The overwhelming demand led to its record-breaking sellout. The rapid sales demonstrate not only the coin’s aesthetic appeal but also the immense pride people feel for Kadayawan. It has become an instant heirloom, a piece of history that families can treasure.
A Celebration Minted in Silver
For those who missed the initial launch, the BSP has encouraged the public to stay tuned for updates on coin availability through its official store. The coin’s popularity underscores how deeply the Kadayawan Festival resonates with the Filipino spirit. It is a beautiful fusion of art, culture, and national identity, now preserved in silver.
The commemorative coin serves as a lasting reminder of the festival’s enduring significance. It allows people to hold a piece of Davao’s heritage in their hands. The Kadayawan coin is not just a collector’s item; it is a symbol of unity, gratitude, and cultural pride.
