By DENNIS GUTIERREZ
Photo SUR SHANGHAI

Ever wonder what place in the bustling city of Davao holds the key to countless cherished memories? Picture this: Aldevinco Shopping Center, a beloved landmark that once told the stories of its people. But in 2021, its closure left a void in the hearts of Davaoeños, including mine, who held it dear as an inseparable part of our lives.

A haven for shoppers and social gatherings
The smell of buttery pastries filled the air in Aldevinco, a special place that was more than just a shopping center—it was a lively collection of dreams and laughter from the people of Davao. Even though it closed in 2021, the memories of Aldevinco still live on in the hearts of those who knew it, creating a mix of happy and sad feelings.
It first opened in the late 1960s, but Aldevinco wasn’t just a place to shop. It was a community hub. Inside, you could find all sorts of selling spaces, from cute souvenir stores with lots of little things to busy restaurants with the delicious smell of cooking meat and baked treats. The atmosphere was alive with people talking, kids playing, and street performers making music.
Aldevinco wasn’t just a shopping center. It was like a big canvas where people painted memories. It hosted exciting concerts, showcasing new talents and experienced artists. Cultural exhibits took visitors to different worlds, helping everyone appreciate diversity and share a sense of belonging.
But the heart of Aldevinco was in its people. The friendly faces and warm greetings from the shopowners made it a comforting and familiar place. They were the heart and soul of this much-loved spot.
“Aldevinco wasn’t just a place. It was a feeling. It was the excitement of finding the perfect toy, the joy of sharing ice cream with family, and the comfort of knowing you were always welcome,” says Maria Lopez, former Aldevinco employee.

A special place of dreams
Aldevinco wasn’t just a regular commercial area. It was where dreams came alive. Kids felt happy exploring and imagining all the cool things they could do there. Whether picking out a new toy, finding a special keepsake, or enjoying yummy food with family, Aldevinco was a magical spot where lots of wonderful moments happened.
It was a safe and comfy place, a sanctuary where families gathered to make memories that would stay in their hearts forever. Parents felt really proud seeing the big smiles on their kids’ faces, and older folks shared stories from the past. Aldevinco was like a special connection, bringing together different generations and creating a strong bond that lasted even as it faced the sad closing moments.
I was a child growing up in the late 1970s and Aldevinco held a special place in my heart. Living just a stone’s throw away from my house on Ponciano Reyes Street, the shopping center became an extension of our home, a place we frequented for everything, from everyday essentials to special occasions. In an era before the proliferation of malls, it was the go-to destination for both locals and visitors, with its bustling aisles filled with a diverse array of shops. and a palpable sense of community spirit.
One particular Christmas season in the early 1980s stands out vividly in my memory. My parents, recognizing my unwavering fascination with matchbox toys, decided to make my childhood dream a reality. Matchbox, those pocket-sized replicas of vehicles using die-cast metal, was big back then.  Armed with my carefully saved piggy bank coins, we embarked on an exciting journey to Aldevinco, aboard our trusty Ford Escort, filled with anticipation.
Fate, however, had other plans. As we made our way to the shopping center, an unfortunate mishap occurred. The coins I had so diligently collected slipped from my grasp and scattered across the car’s floor. Panic gripped me as I feared this unexpected turn of events would shatter my hopes of acquiring those coveted matchbox toys.
Thankfully, my parents, ever understanding and supportive, reassured me that all was not lost. We reached Aldevinco, its familiar façade providing a sense of comfort and hope. That Christmas turned out to be one of the most memorable ones, filled with the joy of selecting those eagerly anticipated matchbox toys, the careful counting of coins at the cashier, and the immense happiness those tiny cars brought me, all within the welcoming embrace of Aldevinco.

An enduring legacy
As Davao City transformed over the decades, Aldevinco evolved alongside it. The shopping center witnessed the rise of modern malls and the changing trends in consumer behavior, yet it remained steadfast in its commitment to providing a welcoming and accessible space for the community.
The news of Aldevinco’s closure was met with a wave of sadness and nostalgia. Davaoeños from all walks of life shared their fond memories of the shopping center, expressing the profound impact it had on their lives. The closure marked the end of an era, a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the cherished places that hold a special place in our hearts.
Today, as the tenants transition to Poblacion Market Central, a glimmer of hope prevails. There is a sense of optimism that the essence of Aldevinco’s charm will continue to flourish in this new setting, creating heartwarming memories for generations to come. 
Aldevinco may be gone, but its legacy lives on, etched in the hearts and minds of Davaoeños forever.