Datu Daya was a legendary tribal chief in Kandaya, the place that is now known as Daanbantayan, Cebu, in the Philippines. According to oral tradition, Datu Daya was the leader of the first Malayan settlers in northern Cebu. The new settlers cleared forests and in a few years were able to establish a progressive community. Moro pirates continually attacked the community and kidnapped women and children until a bantayan (watchtower) was constructed to defend the town. For his leadership of the community, Datu Daya was idolized. Cultural remnants The town of Daanbantayan, Cebu has an annual celebration of chants and dances known as Haladaya (literally, "a tribute to Daya"). Before the conversion of the district now known as Daanbantayan into a town, it was known as Kandaya (kang Daya - Daya's place in Cebuano). See also Rajah Humabon Lapu-lapu Ferdinand Magellan Miguel López de Legazpi Sri Lumay- Founder of Rajahnate of Cebu. Sinhapura Rajahnate of Cebu Kedatuan of Madja-as Cebu City Cebu History of the Philippines (900-1521) Chola Dynasty References Filipino paramount rulers Converts to Roman Catholicism Filipino Roman Catholics Filipino datus, rajas and sultans Paramilitary Filipinos People from Cebu Filipino people of Malay descent Year of birth missing Year of death missing