The measure, authored by Councilor Ragde Niño P. Ibuyan, was approved during the council's session on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
Under the ordinance, small grave lots will cost ₱7,000 each, while large lots will be charged ₱15,000.
Small lots measure 4 to 5 feet by 2 to 2.5 feet, while large lots measure 7 feet by 3 feet. The cemetery has 70 small lots and 264 large lots.
The ordinance establishes a one-time payment scheme, replacing the six-year lease arrangement under the city's 2017 Revenue Code, which requires annual renewal fees and the exhumation of remains upon expiration of the lease period.
The new arrangement is intended to accommodate Islamic burial practices, which require permanent interment and prohibit the unnecessary exhumation, transfer, or disturbance of human remains.
Upon full payment, families will be granted a burial right through a contract. However, ownership and administration of the grave lots will remain with the city government.
The ordinance also exempts indigent families from paying the fees, subject to certification by the City Social Welfare and Development Office.
Exhumation or transfer of remains will only be allowed when required by law, ordered by a competent court or authority, or requested in writing by the deceased's family in accordance with applicable laws and religious requirements.
The city government invested ₱7.33 million in developing the cemetery, including its prayer building, pathways, and entrance gate. The one-time fees are intended to help recover the investment and cover the facility's operational and maintenance expenses.
The measure was formulated following consultations with Muslim community leaders and organizations, including the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Region XI, Davao City Muslim Affairs Office, Madrasah Comprehensive Development and Promotion Unit, and Darul Ifta Wadda’wah Association Region XI.
Following the ordinance's effectivity, the City Economic Enterprise will have 30 days to issue implementing guidelines in coordination with the concerned offices and Muslim religious authorities.
The ordinance will take effect 15 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation in Davao City and posting in conspicuous public places. BuyMaps