DAVAO CITY, Philippines – In a landmark event for the cultural heritage of Mindanao, the artifact collection of the Davao Museum of History and Ethnography was formally turned over to the stewardship of the Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) on August 28, 2025. The ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) marked the culmination of a collaborative effort between the Zonta Club of Davao City, Inc., the Davao Museum Foundation, Inc. (DMFI), and ADDU.
The signing ceremony, held at the Rodríguez Hall in Ateneo’s Jacinto Campus, formalizes the permanent transfer of the entire museum collection and its associated assets to the university. This ensures the preservation, management, and promotion of this invaluable cultural treasury for generations to come.
The agreement stipulates that ADDU will construct a new museum building to house the collection, which will retain its name, the “Davao Museum of History and Ethnography,” in honor of its origins.
The event was attended by key representatives from all three institutions. Signatories to the MOA included Ms. Sylvia C. Lorenzana, Davao Museum’s Executive Director and Zonta Club’s Past President, Fr. Karel S. San Juan, SJ, President of ADDU, Dr. Noemia Demetillo-Bartolome, President of Zonta Club of Davao, Inc., Ms. Judy Ann C. Prantilla, President of DMFI, and Mr. Jeremy S. Eliab, Executive Vice President of ADDU.
In his welcome remarks, Mr. Eliab emphasized the university’s commitment to being a custodian of Mindanao’s rich history. Ms. Prantilla shared a message on behalf of DMFI, reflecting on the foundation’s journey and expressing confidence in ADDU’s capability to carry the legacy forward.
Fr. San Juan, in his message, outlined ADDU’s vision for integrating the collection into its academic and community engagement programs, ensuring it becomes a living resource for education, research, and public appreciation. A closing message was delivered by Ms. Lorenzana, who played a pivotal role in the museum’s history and this transitional agreement.
The collection, initially gathered by the Zonta Club of Davao in the 1970s and formally established as a museum in 1977, includes priceless cultural, historical, and ethnographic artifacts from Davao and the greater Mindanao region, along with photographic archives, research documents, and exhibit materials.
This tripartite agreement represents a profound commitment to safeguarding the cultural soul of Davao and ensures that this vital repository of Mindanwon heritage will continue to educate, inspire, and engage the public for years to come.
About the Partners
Zonta Club of Davao City, Inc.
A socio-civic organization established in 1969, dedicated to improving the status of women and serving the community through various initiatives, including the founding of the Davao Museum.
Davao Museum Foundation, Inc. (DMFI)
The foundation established to manage and operate the Davao Museum of History and Ethnography since its inception in 1977.
Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU)
A premier Jesuit and Catholic university in Mindanao committed to excellence in education, research, and community service, with a strong focus on preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
Article by Pamela R. Castrillo, Consultant, Culture and Arts Initiatives – Office of the President
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