DAVAO CITY — The unmistakable aroma of durian will once again fill the air as SM Lanang Premier kicks off the 12th Durian Festival on Friday, marking the start of a month-long celebration of Davao City's rich agricultural heritage and the iconic "King of Fruits" as part of the 2026 Kadayawan Festival.

The festival opens at 4:30 p.m. at the SM Lanang Fountain Area, bringing together farmers, fruit growers, industry partners and consumers in a showcase of the region's world-renowned produce.

Now in its 12th year, the event has become a staple of the Kadayawan festivities, highlighting not only the city's prized durian but also the people behind its thriving fruit industry.

"In its 12th year, the Durian Festival brings together local farmers, fruit growers and industry partners as we celebrate the abundance of Davao City's harvest while promoting sustainable agriculture and supporting the local fruit industry," said Russel Alaba, senior assistant vice president for Marketing Operations of SM Supermalls–Mindanao.

Beyond the celebrated durian, visitors can also enjoy a colorful display of seasonal fruits, including mangosteen, lanzones, rambutan, avocado and marang, offering a taste of the rich agricultural bounty that has made Davao one of the country's premier fruit-producing regions.

The 12th Durian Festival is supported by the Durian Industry Association of Davao City and the Department of Agriculture–Regional Field Office XI, reinforcing the partnership between the private sector and government in promoting local agriculture and empowering fruit growers.