06/07/2026
FIRST DAVAO ARCHITECT. Trained under American instructors during the early development of Philippine architecture (circa 1930s), Ramon Domingo Basa was one of the pioneering architects of Davao and Mindanao, remembered as the first registered architect from Davao (PRC Reg. No. 50), making him a trailblazer in Mindanao’s architectural landscape. His legacy includes designing landmark churches, university halls, and civic structures that shaped the region’s cultural and architectural identity. Among his notable works are the Lag Residence (Legazpi Street, Davao City), San Pedro Cathedral (Davao City), Mary Mediatrix of All Grace Cathedral (Digos City), and the St. Joseph the Worker Parish (Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur). He also designed several university halls at Ateneo de Davao University, contributing to the institution’s architectural heritage, and created houses and civic buildings across Davao and Mindanao, helping define the region’s urban identity. His blueprints, plans, and design records are now preserved by the Ateneo de Davao University Archives, ensuring future generations can study his contributions. He is considered as the ‘Father of Modern Architecture of Davao.’
