Youth Relive the Joy of Pinoy Traditional Games at “Dula Kaniadto” in Davao City

Youth Relive the Joy of Pinoy Traditional Games at “Dula Kaniadto” in Davao City

DAVAO CITY — Bursts of laughter, excited cheers, and the sound of friendly competition echoed through People’s Park on Tuesday, August 12, as over 1,000 energetic youth from 54 barangays in Davao City’s First District — joined by guests from other districts and members of the media — came together to celebrate Filipino heritage through timeless traditional games.

The “Dabawenyo Ko, Mubarog Ko! Dula Kaniadto Pinoy Fun Games”, organized by First District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte in partnership with the Sangguniang Kabataan, was a highlight of the city’s Kadayawan Festival and the observance of International Youth Day.

“This is more than just fun and games. It’s about keeping our traditions alive and giving our young people — and even our media friends — a chance to connect, laugh, and celebrate the Kadayawan spirit together,” Rep. Duterte said.

With the theme “Reviving Filipino Culture Through Authentic Traditional Games,” the event sought to reconnect the younger generation with the joy, camaraderie, and sense of community that larong Pinoy once brought to every neighborhood.

“We created this event so we can relive our larong Pinoy,” said Christian Mahidlawon, SK chairman of Barangay Magtuod. “Many youth today spend more time on gadgets than in physical play. These traditional games remind us of how fun it is to interact face-to-face, the old-fashioned way.”

The day kicked off with the symbolic lighting of the torch, signaling the start of a spirited lineup of games: Dakpanay Baboy, Patintero, Lumba Bunot, Palosebo, Syatong, Takyan, Tug of War, Sack Race, Pukpok Palayok, Kadang Bagol, and Basketball Shooting.

From the slippery climb of Palosebo to the blindfolded hilarity of Dakpanay Baboy, the park became a playground of nostalgia and youthful energy.

“It was more thrilling than I expected,” shared James Escabosa, a Dakpanay Baboy player. “We play these games sometimes, but not as lively as this. Blindfolded and chasing each other—it was challenging and fun!”

Even guest participants from the media joined in, laughing and reminiscing about the days when these games were their only source of entertainment.

Winners of the Dula Kaniadto included:

Lumba Bunot – Johair Malaco (Brgy. 6-A)

Dakpanay Baboy – Ligaya Mae Morelos (Brgy. 35-D), Jefrey Carongay (Brgy. 14-B), Johair Malaco (Brgy. 6-A)

Palosebo – Kent Olasiman (Brgy. 15-B)

Takyan – Team Brgy. 36-D

Tug of War – 1st: Brgy. 36-D; 2nd: Brgy. 1-A

Patintero – 1st: Brgy. 22-C; 2nd: Brgy. 23-C

Sack Race – 1st: Brgy. 23-C; 2nd: Magtuod; 3rd: Brgy. 1-A

Syatong – 1st: Magtuod; 2nd: Brgy. 36-D

Pukpok Palayok – Hendrick Parojinog (Brgy. 28-C), Jhon Christian Lagande (Brgy. 1-A), Andrei Hacildo (Brgy. 17-B), Andrian Badilla (Brgy. 25-C), Heaven Diaz (Brgy. 22-C), Jezevel Cerujuj (Brgy. 14-B)

Basketball Shooting – Jihan Cabrero (Brgy. 21-C)

A special recognition was also given to 30 outstanding participants, including Jimster Matuguinas, Eric Jade Anad, Jr. Escala, Harvey Olasiman, Kirk Ramos, and Joven Mirafelix.

As the day ended, the park was still buzzing with stories, laughter, and a renewed appreciation for larong Pinoy. The event not only revived traditional games but also rekindled community spirit, proving that in the age of screens, nothing beats the joy of real, face-to-face play.

Organizers expressed hope that Dula Kaniadto will become an annual tradition in Davao City, inspiring camaraderie, sportsmanship, and cultural pride among future generations of Davaoeños.