Tagum Tales

The comforting yet freezing air within our bus contrasted with the scorching heat of the sun outside. While we were on our way to the “Palm City of the Philippines,” banana and palm trees of various sizes and a passing look of buildings from old to new were all around us. Having seen all those, most of us forgot that this was a city whose key areas were submerged in flood waters weeks ago. 

Nevertheless, the impression of resilience came to most of us in Batch XXVI when we set foot in the city of Tagum. Never having been to Tagum before, I had no idea what to expect. However, this field trip to Tagum was a breath of fresh air. 

The first destination that we had stopped at was the city hall. The 14 hectare-area, which was donated by Jesus V. Ayala, not only has the biggest Christmas tree in the Philippines, but also beautifully crafted statues depicting the different tribes that first inhabited Tagum. It was there where we met our tour guides who introduced us to the history and culture that represent the core of Tagum. 

The statues that hold significance to the people of Tagum were mainly composed of tribes from Mandaya, Maguindanaon, and Kagan. Long before the arrival of Spanish colonizers, the land was home to indigenous peoples. By the mid-1800s, Tagum had become a vassal of the Sultanate of Maguindanao, under the rule of the Maguindanaon Datu Bago. This period marked a significant chapter in Tagum’s history, as it served as an integral part of the Sultanate. 

Further into our tour of the city hall, we arrived at the gallery, a treasure trove of memories and milestones. Portraits of all the mayors throughout Tagum’s history and significant artifacts are all proudly displayed for all to see. 

For a region lacking in natural resources, Tagum’s historic past tells a story about their resilience and adaptation. Despite the difficulty, the Local Government Unit (LGU) has launched a remarkable journey of transformation, harnessing innovation and creativity to pave the way for their economic growth. 

The lack of significant natural resources could have been a hindrance, but Tagum’s LGU considered it as an opportunity for innovation. Recognizing the potential for tourism to boost the economy, the city set out on a mission to develop man-made parks and structures that would not only attract tourists but also showcase its cultural heritage. 

An example of such recognition is the abundance of events and festivals. Due to all of its festivities such as the Musikahan Festival, Araw ng Tagum, Palm City Film Festival, Earth Fest, Kaimonan Festival, and many more. It is no wonder Tagum is known as the “city of festivals.” 

Another example is the transformation of abandoned spaces into vibrant parks and recreational areas. These green oases serve as gathering places for both the locals and visitors, instilling a sense of community and pride. 

Tagum’s resilience extends beyond its infrastructure. It is most evident in the spirit of its people, for they have fully embraced change and innovation. Tagum has instilled a culture of resilience in all aspects of daily life through community driven projects and collaborations with local companies. Some of these projects can be found in the Historical and Culture Center which served as the next stop of our trip. Moreover, while on the journey to our next destination, we were lucky enough to catch a glance of the Hijo River. The vast yet slow flow of water in this river serves as a boundary between Tagum City and Davao de Oro. 

When we finally arrived at the next junction of our tour, the first thing that greeted us was the statue of Dr. Jose Rizal standing on top of a pedestal seemingly shining in its bronze-tinted color. Inside of the cultural center, on the other hand, are three significant sections: The Library, Museum, and the theater. 

Their public library is full of books yet spacious enough for computers to inhabit the space, having an area for self-reading, for kids, and for group study. We couldn’t help but take multiple pictures as the library was quite memorable for some of us. 

Then there was the museum which consisted of relics from the past, artworks and structures created and contributed to the museum by students, and outfits from different tribes all on display. We were able to walk around and look at everything the museum has to offer, but the place that left an impression on us all was the theater. Its grandiose stage is big enough to fit everyone in the batch as we look at the vantage point from the stage and onto the sea of empty seats. 

Our final destination to end our field trip was the Energy Park. From a once swampy area desolate of fun, filled with a pukish green atmosphere, now transformed into one that could only be described as an oasis for green thumbs and plant lovers alike. However, this park isn’t only for plant lovers but also for family and friends to spend time with each other. It is also where some government buildings operate. 

The flashes of a digicam and the wind blowing in your hair as you go flying a kite or biking with your friends. Be it playing kite or biking, the enjoyment was one of the loveliest experiences we would ever have. 

Some had trouble flying their kite without it going wrong and some had trouble trying to learn how to ride a bike. As much as the selective few of us felt frustrated and annoyed for failing repeatedly, we had resilience as well. We kept practicing and going until we sweat, our knees buckled, and ankles twisted. 

Never having a chance to ride or own a bike, I never thought there would be a day where I could experience this. However, that day proved me wrong. Not only did I finally learn how to ride a bike, but I got to enjoy it with my friends. I was not the only one. Others had similar experiences as me, from accomplishing their kite flying to learning or having progress on the bike. Surely, we all had fun despite our struggles. 

As the sun began to set while we were at the Energy park, it became clearer that resilience is not merely a trait of Tagum’s historic past. It is also entrenched within the spirit of its people that resonated within us. As we bid farewell to this city, we brought with us the lessons that we learned about resilience, perseverance, and adaptation as one Batch XXVI. 

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