DAVAO CITY — The Designers’ Holiday Bazaar (DHB) is heading to Mindanao for the first time, bringing a curated mix of fashion, home decor, and artisanal food to Ayala Malls Abreeza from September 3 to 6, 2026. More than a shopping event, every purchase helps fund a new digital education initiative for Davao public schools.
A Bazaar with a Heart
Founded by Bea Zobel Jr. and Sofia Zobel Elizalde, the DHB has spent 13 years connecting Filipino designers with discerning shoppers in Metro Manila. This Davao edition, staged under the theme “Sinag” or “Ray of Light,” marks the bazaar’s first expansion beyond the capital. The event is designed as a dynamic meeting place where creators from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao exchange ideas and showcase their craft.
Proceeds from the bazaar will support the Ayala Foundation’s Centex Digital Education High Touch, High Tech program, which aims to improve learning outcomes through adaptive technology and teacher coaching. Ayala Foundation President Tony Lambino said the goal is to replicate a successful Zambales pilot where students doubled their scores in just 12 weeks. The foundation is working with the City Government of Davao and the Department of Education to bring the same model to local schools this year.
Celebrating Dabawenyo Creativity
Out of the 26 exhibitors, half are homegrown Dabawenyo brands, ensuring the bazaar feels deeply rooted in local talent. Fashion designer Wilson Limon of Niño Franco and accessories designer Kathryn Fanlo represent Mindanao’s growing design scene. Bag maker Yvette’s Collections also joins, offering handcrafted pieces that reflect regional artistry.
The culinary side is equally vibrant, with Soul Kitchen, Auro Chocolate Cafe, Bairrada Churrasqueira, and Grateful Bread serving up Dabawenyo flavors. National Artist for Dance Agnes Locsin, a proud Davaoeña, will choreograph an exclusive live performance during the event. Her presence adds a powerful cultural dimension, reminding shoppers that the bazaar supports both education and the arts.
A Proven Model with Real Results
The Centex Digital Education program being funded by DHB has already delivered measurable outcomes in Zambales. Students using the adaptive learning tools and teacher support achieved significant gains in mathematics within a single quarter. The Davao pilot will follow the same structure, with participating schools to be announced soon.
Mayor Sebastian Duterte has expressed support for the initiative, which targets to begin this year. The bazaar’s success is crucial to sustaining this education push. Every purchase made at the bazaar directly feeds into a child’s chance at better learning.
Where to Experience Sinag
The Davao edition of DHB runs from September 3 to 6 at the Activity Center of Ayala Malls Abreeza. Visitors can expect an exclusive curation of fashion, tropical home decor, handcrafted goods, and artisanal food. For shoppers, it is a rare opportunity to support both Filipino craftsmanship and public education in one visit.
