If you grew up in Davao, chances are you’ve passed by Aldevinco Shopping Center more times than you can count. That corner of C.M. Recto and Roxas Avenue wasn’t just another busy intersection—it was a living piece of our city’s story. The colorful batik fabrics, the handwoven textiles, the antique displays, the friendly smiles of shop owners—all of it felt like home.
Now, that familiar space is ready for a brand-new chapter. Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) recently announced that by October 2025, they’ll begin redeveloping the Aldevinco site into a modern, mixed-use development designed to match Davao’s fast-changing urban landscape.
From Cultural Landmark to Modern Destination
Aldevinco first opened in 1965 and quickly became one of the city’s earliest commercial hubs. For decades, it stood as a proud symbol of Mindanao’s rich culture and craftsmanship—a place where local artistry met global curiosity. Even though the mall officially closed in December 2021, its spirit still lives on at Poblacion Market Central, where many of its original tenants continue to showcase handmade crafts, textiles, and local artistry.
Hearing about the redevelopment feels bittersweet. There’s nostalgia, of course, but also excitement. The plan isn’t about erasing Aldevinco’s legacy—it’s about reimagining it for the future. Alsons Dev envisions a vibrant, sustainable, and people-centered space that reflects both Davao’s history and its progress.
Preparing for Transformation
As part of the redevelopment, the old buildings will soon be demolished, a necessary move given their age and structural condition. The work will be done gradually and with care, ensuring the safety of nearby shops, workers, and pedestrians. Alsons Dev is also closely coordinating with the Office of the City Building Official (OCBO) and other government agencies to follow all safety and regulatory standards.
While the long-term vision is being finalized, the company plans to temporarily turn the 5,106-square-meter site into a paid parking space by mid-2026. And because Alsons Dev has always been mindful of community life, they’ll also open areas for food trucks and carts—turning the space into a lively stopover for locals and visitors alike.
Balancing Heritage and Progress
What I love most about this project is Alsons Dev’s commitment to balance. As Miguel A. Dominguez, President and CEO of Alsons Dev, puts it, their goal is to create spaces that “balance heritage and progress.” And that’s exactly what Davao needs—growth that doesn’t forget where we came from.
Over the years, Alsons Dev has built some of Davao’s most sought-after communities—Ladislawa Garden Village, Woodridge Park, Las Terrazas, and Northcrest, just to name a few. They also ventured into mid-cost housing through Narra Park Residences and expanded further south with Avia Estate in Sarangani, showing their dedication to developing not just properties, but thriving, well-designed communities.
Looking Ahead
Aldevinco’s transformation marks the beginning of a new era for downtown Davao. It’s a symbol of how our city continues to evolve—respecting its past while stepping confidently into the future.
Yes, we’ll always remember the old Aldevinco with its maze of shops and nostalgic charm. But I can’t help but feel hopeful for what’s to come. If there’s one thing Davao has taught us, it’s that change doesn’t always mean loss. Sometimes, it means growth, renewal, and new beginnings.
To keep up with updates on the redevelopment, check out the official Alsons Dev Facebook page—because the story of Aldevinco isn’t ending. It’s just getting started again.
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