We, Filipinos, are known in the worldwide music industry. And do you know that some of the great singers are Mindanaoans? Yes. There is a lovely place in Davao del Sur that pictures how a Mindanaoan tribe is inspired by their music. It is the Agong House in the hills of Kapatagan, Digos City.
Why did I describe it “The Musical Agong House”? Actually, the first time I’ve heard of Agong House, though the word sounded familiar, I really didn’t know what an Agong is. I already forgot the music subjects we tackled in high school. Haha! Agong is an instrument widely used by Mindanaoan tribes. It is similar to kulintang, but it's much bigger.
The famous park is a wide landscape of statues and sculptures by Kublai Millan – a famous Mindanaoan artist. There are different characters spread all over the field that will give a lasting impression to every visitor. The main feature is a house that is shaped like an Agong, the reason why it is named that way. The house was originally built as a vacation house of an Indian national and later on became one of the famous parks in Davao.
Simple Pleasures of Agong House
If you want an appreciation of Kublai Millan’s work, then you have found the perfect place. The main house is indeed a creative artwork. The peculiar characters will remind you of some things and values that are important to us. It is also a different way of communing with nature that will give a positive mark to the environment. I almost forgot that the place will also give you the panoramic view of Mount Apo.
Not all the best experiences happen in swimming or hiking. Sometimes a serene place like the Agong House might give you one of the best delights in your life.
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If you happen to visit Barangay Kapatagan in Digos City, you should definitely get a glimpse of the famous Agong House. Also, there are nicer places to experience in Kapatagan that are truly a sight to behold.
How to get there
From Kapatagan Market, the house is a 5-7 minutes motorcycle ride. If you are from Manila, there are major airlines - Cebu Pacific, Airphil Express, Zest Air, Air Asia or Philippine Airlines – that have daily trips to Davao City. Travel time will take about an hour and a half or so. Upon arrival in Davao Airport, ride a taxi or bus going to Davao Central Terminal where you can ride a bus traveling around the province. Visitors can also ride a RORO from Manila to Davao.