Gosouth Davao Travel Magazine

gosouth DAVAO AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

mARCH - aPRIL 2008

Music and dancing in Tagum City’s Musikahan

The country’s longest zip line at Davao del Sur Choose your own adventure in Davao City Nature trips in Compostela Valley & Davao Oriental Margie Moran-Floirendo on her Davao

Includes calendar, transport schedules, directories, and mapsgosouth

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City of Tagum Capital of Davao del Norte

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editor’s note

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Publisher Alma L. Uy Editor in Chief Debbie A. Uy Associate Editor Jane L. Sardoma

Love, Nature

Graphic Designer Jose Bagane B. Fiola

Growing up in Davao City, I spent many weekends in nature resorts and on the beach. The food on our table was always fresh and abundant. Seafood was a staple in our meals and the table would smell of whatever fruit was in season, whether durian, pomelo, mangosteen, banana, rambutan, jackfruit, or marang. I took all these for granted when I moved elsewhere for study and work. The staple food and fruits were much more expensive and none could compare to the fresh quality in the Davao markets. Gone too were the short, quick trips to the beach or highland resorts. While Davao City is bigger in landsize than Manila, the beaches here can be as near as 10 minutes away and the mountain resort reached after only an hour’s drive. And the weather – coming from a typhoon-free region, I was not used to howling winds and hammering rains that cancelled classes and stopped cars in the middle of watery streets. So I went home. Davao had spoilt me, including thousands of other migrants to the region who have found a better quality of life here. The water is one of the world’s cleanest, the air is fresh, the skies are blue, the people are kind, the food is cheap, and it’s a safe place. It’s easy to say then, go south. Come to the south, to this region that is only waiting for more tourists to discover what locals have known all along. Go, go, go South – a rally call too to unite and work for this region that’s been blessed and loved by nature. So in this maiden issue of GoSouth, we highlight the best of Davao region, from island to highland. In Compostela Valley, take your pick among the beach, falls, or mountain. We give you a peek of a gem of an island in Davao Oriental. And if a day is all you have in Davao City, we have the itinerary for you. Davao region is home to many of the nation’s biggest, highest, and ‘royalties’: the Philippine Eagle, Mt. Apo, durian, and waling-waling, and now the Philippines’ longest zip line. We take you on that high-flying journey from Davao del Sur. We feature too the first of the regional festivals, Tagum City’s Musikahan, a fitting opening salvo to greet a year of travel and celebration. Welcome to Davao!

Editor in Chief 4

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Top: Aboard the cable lift in Camp Sabros, Kapatagan, Davao del Sur, majestic Mt. Apo feels so near yet so far.

Contributors this issue Jojie Alcantara, Raquel Bagnol, Tyron Cruz , Lan Daval, Andrei Cesar A. Peralta, Erwin Tay

Davao Region Tourism Council Chairman Alma L. Uy Directors Jerome A. Undalok, Araceli L. Ayuste, Mariano Halog Jr., Wanda T. Teo

GoSouth is published bimonthly for the Davao Region Tourism Council. All rights reserved. Copyright 2008 by GoSouth Magazine. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the publisher. Opinions expressed in this magazine are the writers’ and not necessarily endorsed by Davao Region Tourism Council or Department of Tourism. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising and editorial material. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and artwork will not be returned unless accompanied by self-addressed, stamped envelopes. Publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Address all correspondence to: GoSouth Magazine, Davao Region Tourism Council, Department of Tourism – Region XI 5/F LandcoPDCP Corporate Centre., JP Laurel Ave., Davao City 8000 Philippines. Tel: (6382) 221-0070, 2216955. Fax: (6382) 221-0070, 225-1940. E-mail: [email protected], go_southmag@yahoo. com. Printed in Hong Kong. For inquiries on advertising, please email [email protected] and go_southmag@yahoo. com or call (6382) 221-0070 and 221-6955.

Diving Package in Samal Island Dive plus package for 3 days / 2 nights Minimum of 10 divers with their own equipment: P15,000/pax Without equipment: Additional 2,000 pesos Inclusions: Airport transfers, boat transfers, twin sharing aircon room accommodation at Punta del Sol Beach Resort, 8 meals, belt and 4 kilos leads, round trip Samal Island tour diving, 2-day dives, tanks / 5 dives, souvenir t-shirt and Davao City tour Dive boat: M/bca Barracuda - service type passenger, ideal for island hopping and scuba diving. 27 life vests, 2 life rafts, with 2000 liters fresh water overhead tank, platform and stairway both sides, with toilet and dining table, portable grill, anti-slip floor with second deck

School of Scuba Diving

Call +63 82 221-2121 / 305-3858 / 0917-700-6253 www.samalislanddivers.com gosouth

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what’s inside

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March – April 2008

Vol. 1 issue 1

20 A DAY IN DAVAO CITY

Swimming in the beach, playing golf, strolling around a nature resort – it’s all in a day’s tour of Davao City

Cover Photo by Tagum City Tourism Office



26 A GODDESS AND TWO BROTHERS

The folktale of how a goddess lured two brothers to Malumagpak Falls in Compostela Valley

28 CONQUERING MT. CANDALAGA

A wet, arduous trek to the mountain that’s home to spectacular waterfalls and the world’s largest flower

30 THE SOUND OF MUSIC IN TAGUM CITY

The country’s only music festival is unmatched for its combination of classic and modern music in a rich, vibrant Filipino setting

36 WONDROUS WANIBAN

A glimpse into pristine Waniban Island in Mati, Davao Oriental

38 UP, UP, AND AWAY

The country’s longest zip line at Davao del Sur is one exhilarating ride

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ON THE COVER The streets of Tagum City come alive with the sound of music every February for the Musikahan festival. Full story on page 30. SECTIONS

8 Calendar 13 Travel Notes 24 Shopping Bag 23 Culture Feature 40 My Davao 42 Transport Schedules 44 Directory 52 Map 58 Postcard from Davao

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MAGNAGA WATERS

Pantukan, Compostela Valley Booking Office: Apokon Road, Tagum City Phone: +63 84 218-1216 Telefax: +63 84 370-1986 Mobile no: +63917-719-1956 Email: [email protected]

From Davao City to major points

in Mindanao, Metro Shuttle takes you there Ecoland Drive, Matina Davao City +63 (82) 299-2961

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3 4 285 296 307 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 calendar of events

Late

Feb -Apr 2008 February 21 - 27

Musikahan sa Tagum Tagum City, Davao del Norte Musikahan sa Tagum is a week-long musical extravaganza featuring the city’s best bands, choral groups, rondalla and dances in a musical competition. The Musikahan is the opening salvo of the Mindanao Regional Festival ahead of the April Caracoles Festival of the Island Garden City of Samal City and August Kadayawan Festival of Davao City.

February 18 - 20

Kapyaan Festival Jose Abad Santos, Davao del Sur

Immerse in the culture of Jose Abad Santos through Kapyaan Festival, a celebration of gratitude for a bountiful harvest. The feast beckons both local and foreign tourists to participate in activities like street dancing, musical contests, and float parade.

February 26 - March 6 Gateway Davao Goes Singapore

Davao’s best goes to Singapore in a showcase of food, fashion, tourism, and sale of signature Davao food products – banana, durian, mango, and tuna. The activities promise to make Singaporeans exclaim in happiness, “Shiok!” 8

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March 1 - 7

Araw ng Tagum Tagum City, Davao del Norte The weeklong festival commemorates Tagum’s establishment as a city in 1998. As the provincial capital of Davao del Norte, Tagum is one of the fastest-growing cities in Mindanao and has been cited as one of the 20 most viable and most competitive business sites in the Philippines in 2005.

March 5 - 7

IGaCoS Festival Island Garden City of Samal

Accentuated by Samaleños’ frenzied revelry in a fluvial parade of boats, banca race, and sand sculpture competitions, Igacos Festival is a celebration that shows Samal is more than the usual island sun, sand, and sea.

March 31

Kuradang sa Dalan Panabo City, Davao del Norte

Release your energy in an ecstatic street dancing and wriggle your body to the beat of the gongs in Panaboans’ way of celebrating a bountiful harvest.

March 31

Banana Festival Kapalong, Davao del Sur

In this colorful celebration that features trade fairs and cultural shows, the star of the event is the banana, Davao’s number one export and the largest contributor to the economy. Join the festival and taste a variety of delicious banana delicacies.

April 25 - 28

Pista sa Kinaiyahan Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur

A festival of gratitude for the rich environment, Pista sa Kinaiyahan is celebrated through tree planting and coastal and mountain clean-up.

March 3 - 8

Bulawan Festival

Compostela Valley

Be dazzled with the golden harvest of the country’s Jewelry Capital. In the first Bulawan Festival, timed with Comval’s 10th anniversary as a province, locals express gratitude for their land’s rich gold (bulawan) deposits. Aside from gold, Comval has abundant deposits of silver, silica, copper, and chromite. The event replaces the Anibina Festival, also a thanksgiving feast for Comval’s major crops like rice, corn, coconut, coffee, and rubber. The Bulawan Festival lasts for six days, climaxing on the last day with street dancing and a Grand Golden Parade.

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calendar of events March 14 - 16

Araw ng Dabaw Davao City passion, and art of Davaoeños. Major events of the festival include an opening ceremony featuring tri-peoples offering and historical vignette performances, parade to the Museo Dabawenyo,

trade fair and flea market, performances in Rizal and People’s Parks, and search for the “Mutya ng Dabaw,” the city’s ambassadress of goodwill. The 71st Araw ng Dabaw caps off with a grand parade in major city streets on March 16.

photo by Andrei cesar a. peralta

One way to catch the soul of Davao City is to witness the vibrant feast that commemorates this city’s charter day. A window to the oneness of this multicultural city, Araw ng Davao is a showcase of festivities that exhibit the culture,

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april 8 - 12

Journey to Mt. Hamiguitan

La Union, San Isidro, Davao Oriental

Only in this province can one experience what it is like to be Gulliver. A days-long trek rewards the persevering with one of the best wonders of nature, Mt. Hamiguitan—an enchanting peak that’s home to the 600hectare pygmy or bonsai forest and to a variety of birds and animals. Embark on this journey that celebrates the unequalled beauty of nature. Together with hundreds of mountaineers, take the breathtaking opportunity to conquer the 5,000-foot mountain where anybody can play Gulliver and look down wondrously at a vast forest of pint-sized and centuriesold trees. A bonus awaits: discovering the beautiful lake called Tinagong Dagat (hidden sea), surrounded by exotic flora and fauna.

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calendar of events April 30

Caracoles Festival

Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte

There’s more to the Island Garden City of Samal than its breathtaking beaches. The summer season’s highlight is the Caracoles Festival, a flamboyant celebration of the island’s rich marine environment. Caracoles, meaning “shells,” symbolizes Samal’s trove of underwater jewels. The festival comes complete with a grand showdown of artistic costumes portraying the island’s vibrant marine life.

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travel notes

A region

in boom

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he Davao region is shaping into a major market for investors in the country, with companies developing sites and projects that will change the landscape of the region in a few years.

Davao City Ayala Land, Inc. has partnered with Anflocor to develop a nine-hectare land in Bajada that will combine retail and business process outsourcing. The P2.31 billionworth commercial complex will have a mall, information technology park, and townhouses. Damosa Land Inc.’s two-hectare information technology park will be completed early this year. The IT park will be located in Lanang near Microtel, a newly-opened branch of the international hotel chain. More hotels are expected to rise in Davao City, one near downtown Gaisano Mall, and the city’s first Marriott in Lanang. In Ecoland district, real estate developer DMCI is developing two mid-rise condo buildings named ECO4000. In the same district, Filinvest Land will also develop One Oasis, a 2.3-hectare complex composed of seven mid-rise condominium units. The P1.5 billion-project is expected to be completed in three to four years. For Davao region, Filinvest has earmarked a total of P6 billion investments.

Davao del Norte Filinvest is also pouring in another P1.5 billion in its Kembali Coast, a residential beach resort in the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte.

Holiday Oceanview in Samal

The Holiday Business Group, a conglomerate with diverse businesses in Mindanao, is also developing seven hectares of prime development in Ilihan, Babak district in Samal, into the Holiday Oceanview Resort & Spa. When it opens in 2009, the P300-million project will be the country’s first integrated upscale residential, commercial marina and hotel and spa complex. Local Malaysian officials have also agreed to contact Malaysian conglomerate Ekran Berhad for the possible reopening of the multi-billionpeso Samal Casino Resort in Samal’s Kaputian district. In Tagum, two more malls from two Gaisano groups will rise in the next few years, making to four the fast-growing city’s number of malls.A bridge that will connect Samal and mainland Davao City has also been proposed, along with the Davao Railway System that will traverse Digos City in Davao del Sur and Tagum City in Davao del Norte. Davao City in 10 Asian Cities of the Future Businessmen all over Asia have placed Davao City 10th in the 10 Asian Cities of the Future 2007 list. The businessmen were asked by Singapore-based consulting firm AsiaBIZ Strategy to rate over 200 Asian “big” and “small” cities according to their business and investment opportunities. Davao City also ranked fifth in terms of quality of human resources and sixth as the most cost-efficient city in terms of doing business. In 1996, Davao City was named by Asiaweek magazine as the Most Livable City in the Philippines.

From Davao to the world This May, Davao City will become Cebu Pacific Air’s third hub for domestic and international routes. A 150-seater A-319 jet will be dedicated to the Davao hub in preparation for more expansive inter-island connectivity. That means from Davao, travelers can now fly directly to Iloilo and to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taipei. gosouth

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travel notes

Tips for a trip in Davao Illustrations by LAN DAVAL

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hether your hobby is hiking, hitting the beach, mountain-climbing, or visiting nature parks, your next Davao trip can be the ideal opportunity to pursue your passion. But before indulging in such activities in the region, here are some tips to make your Davao sojourn worry-free:

will be pleased if you can learn some bits of Bisaya, even simple greetings like “Maayong adlaw” (Good day). But if language is not your forte, don’t fret. Locals can speak English well.

5. No expensive

jewelry display

1. No smoking

The city government of Davao strictly implements an antismoking ordinance that prohibits smoking in public places. So before lighting up that cigarette, check if the establishment is smokefree or smoke-regulated. Smoke-regulated places have designated smoking areas. Strictly no smoking in public transportation.

2. Learn to eat durian

It’s said that food is a great way to connect with the soul of a destination. A trip to the durian capital of the country will be incomplete without eating this pungent but creamy fruit. Buy at any fruit stand or when it’s in season, eat at the durian parks that suddenly mushroom in Davao City and Tagum City. For those who can’t bear to eat, try the durian coffee at BluGre Coffee Shop in Davao City, or bring home native delicacies like durian candies, 14

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jams, and pie. If you’re bringing durian on the plane, don’t bring the whole fruit; take out the pulp and put them in a container. Wrapped durian fruit is also found in grocery stores.

3. Spice up your

cooking skills

Passionate cooks will find more inspiration with the region’s bountiful crops. Visit the organic vegetable and local herb gardens at Eden Nature Park and Malagos Garden Resort in Davao City. Then explore and see what you can bring home to spice up your food.

4. Culture and language Davao is a melting pot of cultures, which makes for a population that’s tolerant and hospitable. But good manners should prevail anywhere. Always be polite and avoid conversations on religion and politics. As in other places, locals

Though the region is a safe place to travel, it’s best to be prudent and simple. Avoid bringing valuables or jewelry in public places. If you’ve brought along expensive items, it’s best to deposit them safe in the hotel. Most big hotels provide this service for free.

6. Transportation

Taxis are only available in Davao City. Reaching your other destinations outside the city may require your own or rented car, or taking the bus and jeepney. Public transportation is a cheaper option for those who have an adventurous spirit and want to interact with locals.

7. No ‘My Way’ please

If you plan on a stint at the karaoke pub, avoid singing My Way. The Frank Sinatra song, no matter how meaningful to your life, has been notorious for causing heated and sometimes tragic fights. Instead, if you’re a foreigner, practice Freddie Agular’s Anak and you’ll be sure to get applause.

Al fresco on a starry night F

ilipino favorites and beautiful scenery combine to make a unique dining experience at Dencio’s Kamayan sa Hilltop. By day, the view from the restaurant overlooking Davao City is of blue clouds and lush greens. At night, candle-lit dinners are brightened with a view of city lights down below and twinkling stars high above. Not related to the similarly-named Manila restaurants, Dencio’s Kamayan in Davao City is famous for its grilled food. The signature Chicken Barbecue (48 pesos), Pork Barbecue (20 pesos), and Grilled Spare Ribs (148 pesos) combine the Filipino’s preference for sweet and salty flavors. For big groups, choose the Ribs Espesyal (345 pesos) or Sari-Sari Espesyal (Assorted Specials, 615 pesos), a platter of various grilled meat items. Seafood, abundant in Davao City, is not to be missed. Local specialties are Sizzling Bangus Belly, Grilled Squid, Panga (tuna jaw), and Tiyan ng Isda (tuna belly). You can also order live crabs and ask it to be steamed or cooked with garlic or chili. Fresh seafood are priced from 45 to 65 pesos per 100 grams. Other Filipino favorites are the hearty KareKare (170 pesos), a stew made from peanut sauce with vegetables, oxtail, and beef, and the sinful Crispy Pata (285 pesos), deep fried pork leg. Down your meal with fresh buko juice or fruit shakes to complete your tropical experience. In Davao City, you’ll quickly realize that great food can be very affordable. And dining with a view? Priceless.

Dencio’s Kamayan branches

● Dencio’s sa Hilltop, Brgy. Langub, Diversion Road, Ma-a, Davao City (082) 305-8653 ● Bonifacio St. , Davao City (082) 224-3101 ● G/F SM City Davao (082) 297-1868 ● G/F NCCC Mall Davao (082) 298-4889 ● National Highway, Tagum City (084) 218-5000 ● KCC Mall, General Santos City (083) 553-3355

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travel notes

Away from the

beach crowd

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ith more than 116 kilometers of white sand beaches, the Island Garden City of Samal is the favorite playground of residents and visitors of Davao City. The nearest resorts are only a 10minute boat ride from the city, while highend Pearl Farm Beach Resort is a 45-minute ride. Situated far from the boisterous beach crowd, Punta del Sol is ideal for those who want privacy and underwater adventure. At Punta del Sol, snorkelers and divers can see alien rock, underwater car wreck, and schools of fish and corals. The five-hectare resort also has cottages for day and overnight guests, a restaurant, and a clean beach. It’s easy to swim, stretch out, build a sandcastle, and recharge in this fine place under the sun. Getting there: Arrange for direct boat transfers through the Punta del Sol booking office at (082) 221-2121. Alternatively, take a Holiday Bus at the Magsaysay Park to the Sasa Wharf on board the ferry boat (P40/ head) for 10 minutes. From wharf to Caliclic to Punta del Sol is a 15-20 minute ride on a motorcycle at P40/head. Entrance fee / day tour: P70 for adults, 60 for children. Double the rate for overnight. Cottage rent / day: P100 for small, P200 for big. Double the rate for overnight. Rates for air-conditioned rooms for two start at P1,200 up to P3,000 for apartelle style. Non-aircon rooms can be rented for P500 per room. Portable kitchen and utensils can be rented for P2,500. Resort number: (084) 301-4018 Davao City booking office: (082) 221-2121 Mobile number: 0917-700-6253 16

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Left photos from top: Cottages for day tours and overnights and a restaurant are among Punta del Sol’s amenities. Top: The turquoise waters of Coral Garden are hard to resist. Opposite page: If your eyes are sharp enough, you’ll be able to see the pygmy seahorse while diving in Samal.

Hop around

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even islets surround Samal Island, which makes a day of island-hopping a fun way to explore the Davao Gulf. Itineraries vary among boat rental shops, but the route passes by similar stops. Boats dock at the Sta. Ana Wharf. The Samal Island Divers’ route first passes by the Wishing Island, where passengers throw coins for wishes. Next you’ll see the iconic villas of the Pearl Farm Beach Resort and Malipano Island. You’ll also pass by the 224hectare Mariculture Park and other resorts in Kaputian. At Isla Reta II, you can finally plunge into the waters and visit a cave. The underwater adventure continues with snorkeling and diving at the Coral Garden for a glimpse of soft and hard colorful corals. To cap your day at the sun, have a last round of swimming at the pristine waters of Babu Santa.

Into the

deep S

Coral Garden / Babu Santa / Angel Cove island-hopping package start at P6,500 inclusive of five sets of mask and snorkel, 20 liters of mineral water, fruits, coffee, and grilling with charcoal. Food can be provided at P300 per person. Boats can accommodate 22, 32, and up to 48 passengers. Trips to other islands are also available by arrangement. Contact Samal Island Divers at (082) 221-2121.

amal Island is rich in marine life, with coral reefs considered one of the best in the world. A must-plunge is the 150-hectare Coral Garden and Marine Reservation Park at nearby Talikud Island. Liguid island is also a favorite among scuba divers. Other colorful dive spots: Punta Paet in Kaputian, Punta del Sol, Gunomi Beach in Babak, and Aundanao, another marine park. Your jaws will drop at the underwater scenery, but don’t forget to bite that regulator.

For diving classes and equipment rental contact Samal Island Divers at (082) 221-2121. Classes are taught by PADI and MSDT dive master Oliver B. Ramos. Introductory dives are at P950 per person. Scuba diving including equipment for two dives is priced at P1,500. gosouth

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travel notes

Fun in the sun W

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hether you’re out on a date or with a big group of friends on vacation, Magnaga Waters Beach Resort is big enough to please the nature lover in you.

If you’re looking for parties, time your visit with annual events such as the Miss Magnaga Waters Bikini Open, Bancarera, Live Bands and Miss Gay Pageant.

Located in Magnaga, Pantukan, Compostela Valley province, the 12.5-hectare resort combines lush green foliage with clean, blue waters. A must-visit is the Bunsod, a ‘house’ in the middle of the sea built 25 feet above seawater. Slide and jump into the aqua waters and swim with a wide variety of fishes.

Smaller groups can stay in cottages or the tree house, while big groups can avail of open areas and conference rooms that can sit 200. Magnaga Resort can also host camp outs of up to 2000 persons. Other facilities are a restaurant, souvenir shop, obstacle course, pumpboat rides, basketball court, and billiards.

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Top: Private getaway at the bunsod in the middle of the sea in Magnaga. Opposite page, clockwise from top: The restaurant in Magnaga; playing volleyball by the beach; sunrise view; and Banig Room

Getting there Magnaga Waters is a two-hour ride from downtown Davao City. Using private transport, visitors can take the highway leading to Tagum City. After reaching the main intersection, turn right and follow the main road leading to Pantukan. For bus-riders, take a bus going to Mati, Davao Oriental and get off along the highway as soon as you see the Magnaga Waters Beach Resort signboard. Entrance fee at P10, overnight rate at P30. Cottages for rent at P250 and P350. Overnight accommodations start at P250 per person for dormitory rooms, P350 at Bunsod. Airconditioned rooms start at P1,000 for 2 persons. Family rooms start at P2,300.

For reservations and inquiries Magnaga Waters Booking Office, Apokon Road, Tagum City Phone: +63 84 218-1216 Telefax: +63 84 370-1986 Mobile no: +63917-719-1956 Email: [email protected] gosouth

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a DAY IN DAVAO CITY

Choose your own

adventure From island to highland destinations, Davao City has it all. Debbie Uy takes you on a tour.

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nly in Davao City can you swim at a white sand beach, play golf, visit a nature park, see the rare Philippine Eagle, and hit the night bars – all in one day. It’s a blessed city that might as well be called City of Kings. The Philippines’ highest peak, the 9,692-foot high Mt. Apo, overlooks Davao City. The world’s largest eagle is endemic to Mindanao, as well as the Queen of Philippine Orchids, the Waling-Waling. Cap it with a weather that’s sunny and typhoon-free yearlong, and you’ll see why Davaoeños have made a festival of thanksgiving for nature’s bounty.

Swim and swing

B photos by dau

egin your day early with breakfast at one of the several white sand beach resorts in neighboring Samal Island. The nearest resort, Paradise Island, can be crossed via boat in 10 minutes. While waiting for breakfast, have a dip at the cool, clean waters.

After the morning swim, drop by the Davao Museum for an introduction to the rich local heritage. The museum houses elaborate costumes of Davao’s various early tribes, native crafts and artworks, ancient musical instruments, and old weapons. From the museum, head to the green, grassy fields for golf. Choose from among the four major golf and country clubs – Apo, Rancho Palos Verdes, Lanang, and Maa– where Koreans and Japanese frequent to improve their par. All that swinging will make one hungry, and Davao City has plenty of choices for your growling stomach. Grilled food is the local specialty and tuna is the favorite seafood. Panga (tuna jaw) and tiyan (tuna belly) are best cooked grilled, while tuna tail is either deep fried or stewed with vinegar (paksiw). If you’re hungry for international cuisine, Davao City is full of choices, from Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Italian, Spanish, Indian to Vietnamese restaurants.

A tour in Davao City can take you from the beach in Paradise Island, Samal to the highlands of Eden Nature Resort gosouth

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Nature tripping

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fter all that gorging, take a leisurely walk at Davao’s famous nature parks. Take your pick: visit the Philippine Eagle, smell the waling-waling, tour a manmade eco-park, or see crocodiles. The Philippine Eagle Center is home to 32 Philippine Eagles, 16 of which are captive-bred. Visitors can see the eagles on air and also learn about the bird’s biology and characteristics. At Malagos Garden Resort, walk around the orchid farm, go birdwatching and horse back-riding, or simply have a leisurely stroll around the garden. On Sunday mornings, Malagos puts up an interactive bird show that’s not only entertaining but educational too. An hour’s trip away from the city, Eden Nature Park is a 95-percent man-made mountain resort where you can fish, camp, hike, and swim at a pool. At 3,000 feet above sea level, it’s where locals go to escape the summer heat and retreat into the only pine forest in the city. The region’s only Crocodile Park in Davao is home to locally-bred crocodiles including the country’s biggest, the 18-foot pangil. The park also houses a leopard cat, tiger, snakes, birds, and fish.

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Clockwise from top: Play a round of golf at the Lanang Golf & Country Club, visit the Philippine Eagle, walk amidst butterflies in Malagos Garden Resort, and watch out for crocodiles at the Crocodile Park -- just a few adventures on a day’s tour in Davao City. Philippine Eagle photo courtesy of Philippine Eagle Foundation Malagos photo by Erwin Tay

Wildwater adventure If you want to take the wet and wild route, try the Davao Wildwater Adventure, an unforgettable and challenging ride through a 13-kilometer stretch of the Davao River. Depending on the rapids, river-rafting can take 3 to 4 hours. A whole day is allotted including the hour-long ride to and from the start and end points from Crocodile Park, the meeting place. Package includes lunch, gear, pictures, videos, and a souvenir shirt. Inquire at the Davao Crocodile Park, River Front, Corporate City, Diversion Road (082) 301-2020 or 305-0099.

Shopping and dining

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o one leaves Davao City without pasalubong, and the best place to find native arts and crafts is at Aldevinco Shopping Center. The center is a one-stop-place for trinkets, cloths, dresses, furniture, and pearl jewelry. You can also change your money here.

If you want to bring home orchids, buy them at Puentespina Gardens. For fruits, the best time to buy is during harvest season from July to September, when fruit stands along the streets overflow with pomelo, durian, mangosteen, and rambutan. For the best view of one of the world’s largest cities, eat dinner at Dencio’s sa Hilltop or Jack’s Ridge. Cap the night by listening to local bands at Matina Town Square while sipping durian coffee at Blugre. Drop by too at The Venue for more bands and bars. If you’re confused with the wide array of choices, stay a day more or two. After all, a big city like Davao deserves more than just a day.

Paradise Island and Beach Resort Caliclic, Babak, Island Garden City of Samal Tel # (+6382) 233-0251, 234-1229, 300-2343 Fax # (+6382) 234-2926 Cell # (+63920) 954-6780 Entrance fee: P90 Boat fare: P14 Take the boat at Km. 9 Sasa Aldevinco Arts and Crafts Center C.M. Recto St., near Marco Polo Davao City Philippine Eagle ResearcH and Nature Center Malagos, Calinan, Davao City, 45 minutes – 1 hr drive from city Tel # +63 82 224-3022 Fax # 224-3022 Entrance Fee: P50 for adults, P30 for 18 below Open from 8 am – 5 pm daily, including holidays Tour guiding and use of kiosks for free. Recommended to book guide in advance.

Malagos Garden Resort Sales Office: Puentespina Orchids Compound Bolcan Str., Agdao, Davao City Tel # (+6382) 221-1545, 227-2288 Fax # (+6382) 221-1395 Entrance Fee: P75 for adults and P50 for children on weekdays, P100 for adults and P75 for children on weekends Open from 8 am to 5 pm daily, including holidays Downtown shuttle service and guided tours available. Davao Museum Zonta Bldg, Insular Village I, Lanang, Davao City Entrance Fee: P100 for adults, P20 for students Open from 9 am – 5 pm daily, except Sundays and holidays Puentespina Orchid Gardens and Tropical Plants Bolcan St., Agdao Tel # (+6382) 226-4446

Davao Crocodile Park Riverfront Corporate City Diversion Highway, Ma-a, Davao City Tel # (+6382) 301-3274 Fax # (+6382) 305-7080 Entrance Fee: P100 for adults, P50 for children Open from 8 am to 6 pm daily Series of shows every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday starting at 4:30 pm Eden Nature Park and Resort, Inc. Sales and Reservations Office: Matina Town Square, McArthur Highway, Matina, Davao City Tel # (+6382) 299-1020, 296-0791 Fax # (+6382) 299-0313 Cell # +(63918) 930-7590 Resort Tel # (+6382) 301-0501, 301-0301 Day tour with buffet lunch: P420 for adult, P260 for 4-10 years old Day tour with light snack: P135 gosouth

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shopping bag

Happy shopping!

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rom decors to jewelry, cloths and orchids, Davao City offers a variety of choices for the perfect pasalubong to your family and friends.

A Davao City bookmark/ letter-opener P30, Cordero Asian Shop at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops

A yard of tinalak (handwoven abaca cloth) P320, Narcing’s at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops Shell necklaces P50-P120, Narcing’s at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops

Striped wooden beads with shell pendant P100, Cordero Asian Shop at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops

Durian P40-P55 per kilo, Magsaysay Park Orchids P50- P800 from Puentespina Orchid Gardens, Agdao

Wooden wall décor from Indonesia P200, Cordero Asian Shop at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops 24

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Good Harvest Statue P850, Cordero All Asian Shop at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops

Centuries-old Maranao vase from Lanao P25,000, Razul Antique Shops at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops

Cultured pearls from Sulu P200- P450, KC Pearl Collection Dealer of South Sea Pearls and Birthstones, Ground Floor Victoria Plaza

Abalone necklace P3,000, Good Rate Pearls and Jewelry at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops

Mindanaoan batik (dyed cloth) P450, Esnaira’s House of Batik at Aldevinco Souvenir Shops

culture

The Bagobos through time text By Jane L. Sardoma photo by tyron cruz

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glance is all it takes to recognize the Bagobos, one of the largest group of indigenous peoples in southern Mindanao. Their elaborate dresses are woven from abaca fiber and their colorful ornaments are made of beads, brass, and shells. The origin of the Bagobo tribe can be traced back to the Sri Vijayan and Majapahit invasion in 900 CE, when Hinduism was introduced to the locals of Davao. Coined from the words “bago” which means “new” and “obo” which means “grow” in the tribe’s dialect, the term Bagobo refers to the new society formed through intermarriages of the invaders with the locals. The Bagobos are famous for their ornate traditions in weaponry and other metal arts and noted for their skill in producing brass articles through the ancient lost-wax process. Their skill in weaving one of the best abaca cloths of earth tones impresses both locals and tourists alike.

The Bagobos are still considered the predominant dwellers of the west coast of Davao Gulf to the mountain ranges of Mt. Apo where they have engraved their colorful customs and traditions. Mt. Apo, or Apo Sandawa, also serves as their sacred worship grounds. Being animist, the Bagobos believe in ancestral spirits who could grant their desire through offering of sacrifices. Prayers are offered in rare rituals accompanied by chanting and dancing. Bagobos have a strong social structure that has enabled them to blend well with others while retaining their indigenous customs, beliefs and values. Today, some Bagobos have embraced modern life and abandoned their tribal roots. But there is still a great number that have remained engrossed in the music of kulintangs and gongs, in the solemn chants and harvest rituals, in the stomping of feet on the ground while dancing, and in everything that makes up the Bagobo culture distinctive.

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The tale of

Malumagpak Falls

A goddess and two brothers

Stories of old recall how two brothers came to live with the goddess who guards the mystical Malumagpak Falls in Compostela Valley

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long time ago in a majestic waterfall perched in the midst of a virgin forest of Mount Soligao, there lived a young and lovely goddess named Ginabunan. She had long, straight hair she was very proud of. Ginabunan was endowed with such powers that she could punish anybody who went against her.

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One day, a brave warrior named Pakingyan and his brother Uyo-oy went hunting in Mount Soligao. Armed with a

homemade shield and arrow, they hunted for wild animals near the waterfall where the goddess Ginabunan was bathing. Uyo-oy was not aware of the strange tales about the place. He was so fascinated by the serenity of the place and the cascading crystal water. “A paradise!” he exclaimed as he dipped a foot into the water. Long strands of hair that frolicked in the waters caught him by surprise. Fascinated, he pulled the hair using his arrow and said, “I wish I could have a wife with hair as beautiful as this.”

Pakingyan, who saw what his brother just did, reprimanded him. “Never touch anything from the falls,” he said. “Leave anything you see here untouched. Don’t you know that this is a strange place? We might be cursed!” But the warning was too late. The brothers did not know that it was the goddess Ginabunan’s hair they saw in the waters. Ginabunan, who was taking a bath on top of the falls, became angry at them for pulling her hair. “You shall be punished!” she shouted, her voice echoing in the forest. “One of you will marry me,” Ginabunan said, pointing at Uyo-oy. “But you’re a goddess. I cannot marry you,” replied the terrified younger brother. Rejected, Ginabunan demanded a white pig and white rooster to be offered to her immediately. But the brothers had nothing to give.

Pakingyan and Uyo-oy went home cursed and enchanted. Insensible, they suddenly climbed up the roof of their house and played their flutes. Soon after, they found themselves flying aboard their hunting shield. They threw their flutes into the thick forest. The shield brought them to Ginabunan who was waiting on top of the falls. The surroundings glittered with colored lights. Various musical instruments played, their tones blending into a soporific harmony never heard of before at the place. From then on, as punishment, Pangkiyan and Uyo-oy spent their lifetime serving the goddess. Today, tribal folks at Mount Soligao believe the mats of the bamboo grass that grow near the waterfalls are the flutes thrown away by the brothers. The falls have been named Malumagpak after the loud and strong sound of water falling. But to tribal folks, this four-tier cascade represents the hair of Ginabunan, the goddess who guards the river.

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Personal Journey

Conquering

Mt. Candalaga

Climbing the country’s highest peak is no match to the more challenging hike on Mt. Candalaga. Text and photos by RAQUEL BAGNOL Top from left: The way to Mt. Candalaga challenges even hardy travelers, but rewards come in the form of lush foliage and clean waterfalls.

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limbing Mt. Candalaga in Compostela Valley is a literally wet adventure – the 7,880 feet high mountain is home to 30 spectacular waterfalls and 100 cold springs. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll also see the world’s largest flower, the rafflesia, in bloom. As if to welcome climbers, a few minutes into our trek through the river we were treated to a stunning view of the cascading waters of Marangig Falls, the first of a series of 13 falls. But conquering Mt. Candalaga, part of the Pacific Cordillera range, is not for the faint-hearted and weakkneed. We spent the first day river-trekking, climbing over high cliffs using ropes and roots of trees for footholds and handholds, and going down stiff slopes.

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More challenges were to come on the second day, and it was not encouraging for this novice climber to hear the porter say, “The trail is difficult beyond your imagination.” But having climbed the country’s highest peak, Mt. Apo, there was no going back for me. We hung on to a rope for support in climbing up and down. One false step and you could go hurtling down into an abyss of nothingness. Yet there is no way to describe the thrill when you reach the top of Mt. Candalaga. The cold was biting, with temperatures sometimes plunging to as low as 10C, but I was flushed with my own triumph. Overcoming the dangers of mountain climbing means knowing you have tested your ability and endurance, and you only have the downward trail, no less difficult, to complete the whole adventure.

Two comforts awaited me down the mountain. At the campsite, the loud splashing from Tagbibinta Falls lulled me to sleep. And on the way home, the jacuzzi-like pools from the Aguacan hot springs in Maragusan soothed my body pains. Nature can challenge you, but if you respect it, it will give back a hundred-fold.

Getting there Maragusan is a four-hour trip from Davao City. From Maragusan town proper, a 15-minute ride will get you to barangay New Albay, where you can get guides and porters. For details Contact the Compostela Valley Provincial Tourism Section + 63 84 376-0943 or the Department of Tourism Region XI +63 82 2210070 or 221-6955. gosouth

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The sound of music

in Tagum City

Amid the array of banana plantations and rich highlands, shopping complexes and pristine beaches, Tagum City presents Musikahan, an event that celebrates a Filipino passion – music. JANE SARDOMA brings you to Mindanao’s Music Capital.

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very February, the streets of Tagum City come alive with festival colors, marching music artists, dancing ladies in full regalia, and wild cheering. It’s enough to keep both locals and tourists singing and dancing to the beat of the music, and more than enough to captivate any music-lover’s heart. With the week-long serenade of voices and musical instruments, Musikahan Festival is Tagum City’s way to draw you close to its soul.

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Celebrated this year from February 21 to 27, Musikahan is invigorated by a number of musical contests participated by thousands of revelers from Davao and neighboring regions. This year, around 3,000 music and performing artists are estimated to join the event which will give away up to P3-million in cash prizes to winners. With music as the centerpiece of the celebration, the event brands Tagum City as the Music Capital of the South.

Clockwise from top: Have instrument, make music. Whether it’s the rondalla, bamboo, or trumpet, the young show they know their music. The acclaimed Alicia Bamboo Ensemble from Bohol (top right) has been a regular guest performer at the annual Musikahan in Tagum. ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF TAGUM CITY TOURISM OFFICE

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First notes

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he first Musikahan in 1998 was just a simple event to commemorate the city’s founding anniversary. Tagum City’s incumbent mayor Rey T. Uy and wife Alma decided to launch a music festival after noticing Tagumeños passion for music in the city’s cultural shows. Since the city is also famous for its skillful and creative marching brass and drum and bugle bands, Mayor Uy decided to make the Drum and Bugle Corps and Brass Band competitions the climax of the event. Musikahan’s uniqueness has raked massive participation every year. Young artists from the city’s four dominant tribes, Mansaka, Mandaya, Calagan, Dibabawon, perform original song compositions in their respective dialects. Music is important in their cultures, depicted in the songs written by Sheena Onlos from the Mandaya tribe Isisid, Tipanod nga Tagumeño and Musikahan sang Tribo. As the festival evolved, other events were organized with thematic presentations like Music Traditions and Competition, Music and Wellness, Music in Education, Music and Industry, and Music and Governance. The festival eventually opened itself to performances of acclaimed guest artists from the Visayas and National Capital Regions, often for special concerts sponsored by the corporate partners of the event. In the first four years, Musikahan was celebrated every March 7, the city’s founding anniversary. But with the efforts of the festival head organizer, Tagum first lady Alma Uy, Musikahan became another festival separate from the Araw ng Tagum in 2007.

Opposite page clockwise from top left: Big smile from a participant of the marching band contest; ladies young and younger dance to modern and folk music; a group performs a serenade for the community. Right: A pair dances to traditional rondalla music. gosouth

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Greatest hits

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ince then, Musikahan has become the only music festival in the country that offers an unmatched musical extravaganza. Options are available for everyone’s taste. Bang your head in the reverberating music in the Pasiklaban (battle of the bands) or ignite your patriotic zeal in the Harana ng Bayan (serenade for the community). Revel in young people’s expert play of the drum, bugle, and lyre in the Huni ug Kasikas sa Plaza (drum-bugle-lyre corps competition) or be mesmerized by the graceful dancing accompanied by rondalla music in the Rondal-Sayaw contest. Dance to the beat of the school brass bands from all over Mindanao in the marching band competition at the Tagum Freedom Park. Adding prestige to the festival is the presence of world-famous Philippine talents. The renowned Alicia Bamboo Ensemble from Bohol was a guest in the previous Musikahan. This year, the Philippine Madrigal Singers and Bohol’s Loboc Children’s Choir are guest performers in special concerts. The festival is complemented with events like Pahalipay where music artists visit and entertain the sick in the city’s hospitals. The city government also provides free music education especially to young indigenous peoples to hone their talent and interest in music composition and performance. To date, there have been more than 1,300 graduates of the year-long annual music workshops. The city mayor also provided support in acquiring musical instruments for string-ensemble, drum and bugle, and brass corps of more than 20 public elementary and secondary schools in the city. In just nine years, Musikahan has transformed itself into a grand and merry celebration of week-long performances that move both the feet and the heart. Plans are already afoot to make the festival a nationwide competition. All these lure thousands of people to heed the call of music that comes from Tagum City. 34

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From left: Singing, dancing the rondal-sayaw, and celebrating are all part of the merry, pretty Musikahan.

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Wondrous

Waniban

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Text & photo by Jojie Alcantara

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ati City, a good threehour scenic ride from Davao City, has been receiving a surge of tourist influx that brings the mystic Waniban Island, once enjoyed by locals alone, into the limelight. Waniban is an island surrounded with pristine turquoise waters just 15 minutes across from Cinco Masao Resort in Mati. Blessed with calm waters that turn a hypnotic deep blue, Waniban’s attraction is more than just its powdery white sands, sturdy mangroves, glimpse of dolphins cavorting by, or the fact that you can cover the whole island on foot in less than an hour. It gives you a private hideaway and a momentary pleasure away from the maddening city life. The island is equipped with cottages (at P350) and toilets for those staying overnight. For those who just want to explore and take a dip at its warm inviting waters, you pay P20. Don’t forget to pack your food and suntan lotion! Bancas can be hired daily for picnics and island hopping in this islet paradise, plying the route at P2,000 for a group of 10. A small banca can easily accommodate five to 10 people, 15 if the boatman is reckless. The waves are moderate to calm on a sunny day across from Cinco Masao Resort, where one makes boat reservations. To know more about Mati and its other beach attractions, visit http:// www.mati.gov.ph or call the Mati Municipal Office at (087) 811 2371 and look for Chokie or Lucio. gosouth

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Up, up, and away A ride on the country’s longest zip line rewards the brave soul with a bird’s eye view of a thick, virgin forest and a cloudless sight of the country’s highest peak. Text and photos by DEBBIE A. UY

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nyone who has harbored dreams of flying will now find that dream possible – with firm cables attached.

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Barbell, or Darna, because one is lying down instead of sitting. The position is safer, with the whole body in harness. For the ultimate flying experience, stretch your arms like a superhero and feel the clean mountain breeze on your face.

At Camp Sabros in Kapatagan, Davao del Sur, the zip line takes riders 150 feet above lush greens and pine trees. At 380 meters long, it is also the country’s longest commercial zip line. The view is similarly unmatched: on early mornings, one can see Mount Apo at its naked best.

A ride on the zip line takes 50 seconds on the average. The return trip to camp is via the cable lift, a fiveminute ride that allows you to savor more the scenery.

The zip line at Camp Sabros opened November last year and is fast becoming popular with adventure lovers. The sensation riding it is akin to flying like Superman, Captain

Weight is not a problem. The zip line can carry up to eight tons of weight and the cable lift double that, says Edwin Sacdalan, extreme sports enthusiast and owner of Camp Sabros.

Those who favor more relaxing activities can walk around Camp Sabros and enjoy the verdant greens, blue skies, and cool weather all year round. Cottages are available for overnight stays, and it’s a wise move to bring a jacket as temperatures dip at night. After dinner, you can set up your own bonfire and exchange stories by the moonlight. More plans are afoot for this ninehectare outdoor adventure camp that opened last December. By summer of 2008, Camp Sabros will have a view deck, another zip line going back, a canopy walk, tree houses, wall climbing facility, and restaurant. Today, the camp has four cottages that can sleep 30 persons. The wide area can accommodate 250 campers. The current thrills and upcoming improvements are expected to put Davao del Sur in the forefront of the tourism map and attract not just adventure seekers but nature lovers and superhero wannabes. Bring your own cape. Getting there Hire a private vehicle to take you directly to Camp Sabros, in front of the checkpoint in Kapatagan. The drive takes about three hours from downtown Davao City. Rates Zip line solo 200 pesos (both ways). Tandem/duo ride P300. Overnight rate at P300/person. No meals are provided but you can bring and cook own food. For reservations Contact Edwin Sacdalan at +63920-875-0015 Opposite page: A high-flying act aboard the zip line in Kapatagan, Davao del Sur. This page from top: A scenic ride on the cable lift; dining area of Camp Sabros at night; entrance to the nine-hectare adventure camp gosouth

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my davao

Margie’s

Davao For world traveler Margarita “Margie” Moran-Floirendo, there’s no place like home.

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or 1973 Miss Universe titlist Margie Moran-Floirendo, beauty is no bliss without her adopted home island, Mindanao. After marrying Antonio “Tony Boy” Floirendo, the former Davao del Norte congressman and whose family owns the TADECO Banana Plantation, Margie settled in Davao City in 1986. Part of her responsibilities in the family business was to help set up a travel agency and the worldclass Pearl Farm Beach Resort. The mother of two also hosted travel-culture shows that showcased the beauty and richness of Mindanao culture and its tourism wonders. More than business, Margie is also at the forefront of community outreach programs of NGOs, particularly the Save Davao Gulf Foundation, Gawad Kalinga, Habitat for Humanity, and the Southern Philippines Foundation for the Arts, Culture & Ecology. To her, there is nothing more beautiful than serving the people of this place she calls home.

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Davao. How was it like adjusting to provincial life?

Margie Moran Floirendo: I have been coming to Davao since the early 70s but made Davao my home in 1986. Davao then was very provincial but dangerous. It was known as the killing fields of the country with the number of human liquidations committed in the streets. It was not difficult for me to adjust to provincial life because as a child I would go home in the weekends to my hometown in Rosales, Pangasinan. Provincial life was always something to look forward to, to enjoy nature, rest and for recreation. GS: You’re very active in promoting Mindanao. What led you into this and what fascinates you about the island? MMF: I trace my roots in Mindanao. My

maternal grandmother, who is of Spanish and American descent, was born and grew up in Zamboanga. Her stories fascinated me. I was always interested in its history and culture which was so distinct from the other regions in the country. This led me to accept the ABSCBN TV productions of Margie on Mindanao

Proudly Davao Davao City has been reaping many awards through the years, proof that for this southern corner, there’s no way to go but up.

and MindaNow. I also published two books, Mindanao, A Portrait, and Mindanao on the Mend.

Most livable Asian city of the future

GS: Where do you usually bring visitors

Davao City was named as one of the Asian Cities in the Future in a 2007 survey, and topped the rankings as the most competitive metro in the country (2001and 2005). Moreover, based on annual surveys made by Asiaweek magazine on the 40 Best Cities in Asia, Davao City consistently made it to the Top 20 from 1996 to 1999, making it the most livable city in the country.

to the Davao region?

MMF: Pearl Farm Beach Resort, Malagos, banana plantation, Philippine Eagle.

Most Outstanding Water Utility in Asia

GS: What are your favorite places in the

region?

The Davao City Water District ranked number one in the listing of the top 50 water utilities in the Asia-Pacific region (1996, 1997, 1998). It’s not surprising – Davao City has the second cleanest water in the world.

MMF: Pearl Farm Beach Resort in Samal island and snorkeling around Samal island. GS: What do you find special about

The Cleanest and Greenest City in the Philippines (Highly urbanized category, 1999-2005)

MMF: Its greenery and natural

Aside from an urban city that’s clean and green, Davao City also boasts of green highlands and nature parks.

Davao region?

resources. The Davao Gulf is part of the Sulu Sulawesi Coral Triangle where the biodiversity of the seas is very rich. It is abundant in fish if protected. It is equivalent to the Amazon in Brazil in the balance of the earth’s ecosystem.

Most Peaceful City in East and Southeast Asia, 1998-2005 Davao City’s peace and order situation disproves notions of Mindanao as unsafe. The city has seen a dramatic decrease of crime rate since 1999. From a three-digit crime rate per 10,000 people in 1985, Davao has become one of the most peaceful cities in the country, with a monthly crime volume of 0.8 cases per 10,000 persons from 1999 up to 2005.

MMF: As our region grows to be agriculturally industrialized and urban development progresses in Davao City and in the other urban areas in the region, government must make sure poverty housing is planned and budgeted to mitigate the influx of urban settlers from the rural areas. Government as well as developers and the people should be more vigilant to care for the environment and balance development with environmental enhancement and conservation.

FREEDOM PARK PHOTO COURTESY OF DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM / RHONSON NG

GS: What improvements do you want to see in the region?

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TRANSPORTATION SCHEDULE

LAND

Rural Transit of Mindanao

Davao Metro Shuttle

Ecoland Drive, Matina, Davao City +63 (82) 299-2961 Destination

First Trip

Time of interval

Davao–Digos

5:30 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

Dava –Digos

5:00 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

Digos–Davao

5:30 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

Digos–Davao

5:00 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

Davao–Tagum

5:30 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

Davao–Tagum

6:00 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

Tagum–Davao

5:00 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

Tagum–Davao

5:30 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

Davao–Kidapawan

6:00 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

Kidapawan–Davao

6:00 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

Davao–Gen. Santos

5:00 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

Gen.Santos–Davao

5:00 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

Class

Destination

First Trip

Time of Interval

Class

Davao–Cagayan de Oro City (via Buda)

24 hrs

Every hour

Non-aircon

Davao– Cagayan de Oro City (via Buda)

4 am

Davao–GenSan 1 stop

9:00 am

Every 30 min

First Trip

Time of Interval

Davao–Surigao

3 am(non-aircon)

5 am (aircon)

Davao–Leyte

3 am (non-aircon)

5 am (aircon)

Davao–Samar

3 am (non-aircon)

5 am (aircon)

Davao–Bicol

3 am (non-aircon)

5 am (aircon)

Davao–Manila

3 am (non-aircon)

5 am (aircon)

To and from Davao City WG&A Super Ferry

Sta. Ana Ave., Davao City, (082) 234-0973-74 / 221-1390 www.wgasuperferry.com Port of Origin

Port of Destination

Departure Day /Time

Arrival Day / Time

General Santos – Makar

Davao City – Sasa

Mon 9:00 pm

Mon 12:45 pm

General Santos – Makar

Davao City – Sasa

Sat 4:15 am

Sat 1:45 pm

Superferry 12

Davao City – Sasa

General Santos – Makar

Tue 12:45 am

Tue 9 am

Last Trip

Supeferry 2::9

Davao City – Sasa

General Santos – Makar

Sat 8:30 pm

Sun 6 am

Supeferry 2::9

Iloilo – San Pedro

Davao City – Sasa

Thu 9:15 pm

Sat 1:45 pm

7:00 pm

Supeferry 2::9

Davao City – Sasa

Iloilo – San Pedro

Sat 8:30 pm

Mon 12:30 pm

Superferry 2::9

Manila – P15

Davao City – Sasa

Tue 10:45 pm

Fri 1:45 pm

Class Aircon

11 pm

Destination

Supeferry 2::9

Km 2 McArthur Highway, Davao City +63 (82) 298-0045 Time of Interval

Aircon

24 hrs

Superferry 12

Yellow Bus Lines First Trip

Every hour

Last Trip

Ecoland Terminal, Davao City +63 (82) 299-3419 Route: Davao – Surigao – Leyte – Samar – Bicol - Manila

SEA

Vessel

Destination

PhilTranco

Yacapin Extension, Cagayan de Oro City +63 (882) 272-6154 c/o BEI, Davao City +63 (82) 244-0654, 244-0637

Davao–GenSan Non-stop

9:00 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

2:00 pm

Superferry 12

Manila – P15

Davao City – Sasa

Sat 11:45 pm

Mon 11:00 pm

Davao–GenSan

9:45 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

7:00 pm

Superferry 12

Davao City – Sasa

Manila – P15

Tue 2:45 am

Thu 3:00 am

GenSan–Davao

9:00 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

7:00 pm

Superferry 2::9

Davao City – Sasa

Manila – P15

Fri 8:30 pm

Mon 11:30 am

GenSan–Davao

9:00 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

7:00 pm

Sulpicio Lines

Leon Garcia St., Davao City (082) 221-5676 www.sulpiciolines.com

Bachelor Express

Ma-a, Davao City +63 (82) 244-0654, 244-0637 Destination

First Trip

Time of Interval

Class

Last Trip

Davao–Mati

4 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

5:00 pm

Davao–Mati

4 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

8:00 pm

Princess of the Universe (via Cebu/Zamboang/Dadiangas)

Port of Origin Davao City

Port of Destination

Departure Day / Time

Arrival Day / Time

Manila

Sun 2:00 pm

Wed 11:00 am

Mati–Davao

4 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

5:00 pm

Filipina Princess (via Surigao/ Cebu)

Davao City

Manila

Wed 7:00 pm

Sat 9:00 am

Mati–Davao

4 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

8:00 pm

Princess of the Universe (via Cebu/ Zamboanga)

Manila

Davao City

Thu 2:00 pm

Sun 3:00 am

Davao–Butuan

4 am

Every hr

Aircon

9 pm

Filipina Princess (via Surigao/ Cebu)

Manila

Davao City

Sun 10:00 am

Tues 4:00 pm

Davao–Butuan

24 hrs

Every hr

Non-aircon

24 hrs

Princess of the Universe

Davao City

General Santos (Dadiangas)

Sun 2:00 pm

Sun 10:00 pm

Filipina Princess

Davao City

Surigao

Wed 7:00 pm

Thu 2:00 pm

CC Liner

Porras cor Villamor St., Bo. Obrero, Davao City +63 (82) 226-2167 Destination

42

Vessel

Last Trip

Surigao

Davao City

Mon 9:00 pm

Tues 4:00 pm

Davao City

Zamboanga

Sun 2:00 pm

Mony 2:00 pm

Princess of the Universe

Zamboanga

Davao City

Sat 10:00 pm

Sun 3:00 am

First Trip

Time of Interval

Davao–Sto. Tomas

5:00am

Every 15 min

Non-aircon

9:00 pm

Princess of the Universe (via Zamboanga)

Cebu

Davao City

Fri 6:00 pm

Sun 3:00 aam

Davao–Kapalong

5:15am

Every hr

Non-aircon

4:30 pm

Filipina Princess (via Surigao)

Cebu

Davao City

Mon 12:00 nn

Tues 4:00 pm

gosouth

Class

Filipina Princess Filipina Princess

AIR DOMESTIC FLIGHTS Flights to and from Davao International Airport

Airlines Contact Numbers

Air Philippines

MANILA Philippine Airlines ETD

ETA

Frequency

Flight

Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

2P 025

Davao

2P 027

Davao

2P 026 2P 024

Frequency

Cebu

11:40 am

12:35 pm

Daily

Cebu

4:15 pm

5:10 pm

Daily

Cebu

Davao

9:55 am

10:50 pm

Daily

Cebu

Davao

5:40 pm

6:35 pm

Daily

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Flight

Origin

Destination

PR810

Davao

Manila

7:30 am

9:30 am

Daily

PR812

Davao

Manila

1:30 pm

3:30 pm

Daily

PR818

Davao

Manila

3:45 pm

5:45 pm

Daily

PR814

Davao

Manila

7:30 pm

9:30 pm

Daily

PR816

Davao

Manila

9:05 pm

11:05 pm

Daily

PR809

Manila

Davao

04:30 am

06:30 am

Daily

Flight

Origin

Destination

PR811

Manila

Davao

10:30 am

12:30 pm

Daily

Davao

Bacolod

11:40 am

12:30 pm

PR817

Manila

Davao

1:05 pm

3:05 pm

Daily

Daily next day connection

PR813

Manila

Davao

4:30 pm

6:30 pm

Daily

2P 027 via Cebu

PR815

Manila

Davao

6:25 pm

8:25 pm

Daily

2P 011 via Cebu

Bacolod

Davao

7:40 am

10:50 am

Daily

ETD

ETA

Cebu Pacific Frequency

BACOLOD

Air Philippines

Destination

5J-962

Davao

Manila

7:25 am

9:10 am

Daily

5J-964

Davao

Manila

12:30 pm

2:15 pm

Daily

5J-970

Davao

Manila

2:40 pm

4:25 pm

Daily

5J-966

Davao

Manila

6:10 pm

7:55 pm

Daily

5J-968

Davao

Manila

9:40 pm

11:25 pm

Daily

5J-961

Manila

Davao

5:10 am

6:55 am

Daily

5J-963

Manila

Davao

10:15 am

12:00 nn

Daily

5J-969

Manila

Davao

12:25 pm

2:10 pm

Daily

5J-965

Manila

Davao

3:55 pm

5:40 pm

Daily

Flight

Origin

Destination

5J-967

Manila

Davao

7:25 pm

9:10 pm

Daily

5J-348

Davao

Iloilo

6:15 am

7:20 am

Tu-Th-Sa

5J-347

Iloilo

Davao

7:50 am

8:55 am

Tu-Th-Sa

Flight

Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

2P 027 via Cebu

Davao

Iloilo

11:40 am

1:50 pm

Daily

2P 021 via Cebu

Iloilo

Davao

8:35 am

10:50 am

Daily

Daily

Cebu Pacific

7:15 pm

8:55 pm

Daily

Flight

Origin

Destination

Davao

7:30

9:10 am

Daily

5J-393

Davao

Davao

2:00 pm

3:40 pm

Daily

5J-394

Zamboanga

ETD

ETA

ETA

2P 926

Davao

Manila

9:40 am

2P 928

Davao

Manila

2P 925

Manila

2P 927

Manila

SilkAir

ETD

ETA

Pryce Tower, J.P. Laurel Ave. Davao City +63 (82) 221-1039 / 224-5608 www.silkair.com

Frequency

Merpati Nussan Tara Airlines

11:20 am

ETD

Frequency

Cebu Pacific (effective May 8, 2008)

ZAMBOANGA

Destination

Davao International Airport +63 (82) 234-6390; 234-6388; 234-8030 loc. 3473/3465 Level 2 Lachmi Shopping Mall San Pedro St., Davao City +63 (82) 2211062 tktg.davao@airphilippines. com.ph

Air Philippines

Frequency

Origin

Cebu Pacific Air

Davao International Airport +63 (82) 233-1921 2F Victoria Plaza, J.P. Laurel Ave., Davao City +63 (82) 224-0961 to 62 www.cebupacificair.com

ILOILO

Origin

Flight

Davao International Airport +63 (82) 234-0073 Roxas Ave., Davao City +63 (82) 221-5313, 221-5641 www.philippineairlines.com

Air Philippines

Flight

Air Philippines

Philippine Airlines

ETD

ETA

Zamboanga

9:10 am

10:05 am

M-W-Sa-Su

Davao

7:45 am

8:40 am

M-W-Sa-Su

Pilman Travel and Tours G/F Doña Segunda Bldg., P. Reyes St., Davao City +63 (82) 224-5870 – 71 [email protected]

Frequency

CEBU Cebu Pacific Frequency

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

Flight

Origin

Destination

5J-594

Davao

Cebu

6:30 am

7:25 am

Daily

5J-596

Davao

Cebu

11:35 am

12:30 pm

Daily

SINGAPORE

5J-598

Davao

Cebu

5:55 pm

6:50 pm

M-T-W-F

SilkAir

5J-600

Davao

Cebu

8:55 pm

9:50 pm

Th-Su

5J-593

Cebu

Davao

5:05 am

6:00 am

Daily

5J-595

Cebu

Davao

10:10 am

11:05 am

5J-597

Cebu

Davao

4:30 pm

5:25 pm

5J-599

Cebu

Davao

7:30 pm

8:25 pm

Davao flights to and from Singapore, Hong Kong, Manado, and Taipei

Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Frequency

Davao

Singapore

3:15 pm

6:55 pm

M-T-Th-Sa

Daily

Daily

Davao (via Cebu)

Singapore

1:35 pm

6:55 pm

W-F-Su

Daily

M-T-W-F

Singapore

Davao (via Cebu)

9:05 am

2:35 pm

M-T-Th-Sa

Daily

Th-Su

Singapore

Davao

9:05 am

12:55 pm

W-F-Su

Daily

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43

Cebu Pacific Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Frequency

5J-715 (starting May 8, 2008)

Davao

Singapore

8:00 pm

11:15 pm

T-Th-Su

5J-598/547

Davao

Singapore

5:55 pm

11:25 pm

M-T-W-F

5J-716 (starting May 8, 2008)

Singapore

Davao

11:59 pm

3:15 am + 1

T-Th-Su

5J-548/593

Singapore

Davao

12:20 am

6:00 am

T-W-Th-Sa-Su

Directory *Accredited by the Department of Tourism

Davao City TRAVEL AGENCIES

HONG KONG

Cebu Pacific Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Frequency

5J-724 (starting May 8, 2008)

Davao

Hong Kong

8:40 pm

11:30 pm

M-W-F-Sa

5J-598/238

Davao

Hong Kong

5:55 pm

11:50 pm

M-T-W-F

5J-725 (starting May 8, 2008)

Hong Kong

Davao

12:15 am

3:05 am

T-Th-Sa-Su

5J-239/593

Hong Kong

Davao

12:35 am

06:00 am

M-T-W-Th-F-Sa

MANADO, INDONESIA

Merpati Nussan Tara Airlines Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Davao

Manado

4:15 pm

5:30 pm

Mondays

Manado

Davao

2:00 pm

3:15 pm

Mondays

TAIPEI Cebu Pacific (starting May 8, 2008) Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Frequency

5J-598 /302

Davao

Taipei

5:55 pm

10:10 pm

M-W-F

5J-303/593

Taipei

Davao

10:55 pm

6:00 am + 1

M-W-F

Suite B305, Plaza de Luisa Complex 3F 140 R. Magsaysay Ave., Davao City 8000 (P.O. Box No. 80637) Phone: +63 (82) 221-3100 Fax: +63 (82) 221-2176 Consulate General of Indonesia

Phase IV, Ecoland Drive, Matina Davao City 8000 Phone: +63 (82) 299-2930 Fax: +63 (82) 297-3462

44

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Consulate General of Malaysia, Davao City

3rd Floor, Florantine Building A. Bonifacio Street Davao City 8000 Phone: +63 (82) 221-4050 / 221 1368 Fax: +63 (82) 221-4014 Email: [email protected] Office Hours: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm United States of america Virtual Consulate

www.usconsulatedavao.org.ph

* Grand East Asia Travel & Tours 3rd Level Gaisano Mall, Bajada (082) 224-2801/ 221-8083 House of Travel Anflocor Bldg., Lanang (082) 235-3006/ 234-0683 Jetway Travel Agency Fontana Building, Bolton St. (082) 221-5514/ 221-5650

Adventure Int’l Tour Inc. Landco Bldg., J. P. Laurel Ave. (082) 227-7883

John Gold & Travel & Tours 3rd level Gaisano Mall (082) 221-2396

AMSTAR Travel & Tours Unit 3, ATU Plaza, Gov Duterte St. (082) 221-6307

Kaibigan Travel & Tours GRDC Bldg., Insular Village, Lanang (082) 234-6279

Anson Travel & Tours Gaisano South , Ilustre (082) 222-2412

Konstur Travel Corp. Rizal Promenade , Rizal St. (082) 224-6001

Buenavista Travel Services MTS McArthur Highway, Matina (082) 297-1432/ 299-0807

Lai Lai Travel Ilustre St. (082) 227-1551

* Century Travel Express Phils. F. Torres St. (082) 221-2672 / 222-0656/ 300-7918 * CMTan Travel & Tours Corp. Escalona Bldg., Ponciano Reyes St. (082)224-0523/ 221-0051 Cowboy Travel & Tours Alba Bldg., Bolton St. (082) 233-2135

CONSULATES Consular Office of Japan

* AME Travel & Tours Jacinto Extn. , F. Torres St. (082) 227-6531

Grajan Travel & Tours 429 Palma Gil St. (082) 224-6275

* Davao Allied Travel & Tours Allied Bldg., Magsaysay Avenue (082) 221-0244/ 305-0029

Madayaw Travel & Tours Santos Bldg., Gov. Duterte St. (082) 300-3017 Milan Travel & Tours Ponce Suites, Doña Vicenta Village (082) 221-6013 * Mt. Apo Travel & Tours Inc 88 GuerreroMonteverde Sts. (082) 221-1877/ 227-1657 * New World Travel Corp. 2F Victoria Plaza, Bajada (082) 221-6442

* DSL Travel & Tours Sandawa Road, Matina (082) 298-0021/ 298-0002

Pacific Royal Wings Doña Segunda Bldg., C. M. Recto (082) 225-5579

Friendship Tours & Resort Corp. G/F Grand Regal Hotel, Lanang (082) 234-8946

* Dynashi Travel 3rd Floor Plaza de Luisa R. Magsasay Ave. (082) 305-1420

Fronter Travel & Tours Anda St. (082) 227-8895/ 224-1837

* Pan Asiaworld Holidays Inc. Gen. Luna St. (082) 221-2679/ 226-3850

Good Fortune Travel Juan Luna, Jacinto St. (082) 225-0021

* PAR Travel Agency Santos Bldg., Gov. Duterte St. (082) 221-3424/ 221-3379

Pilman Travel & Tours Ponciano Reyes St. (082) 224-5870 * Southern Travel Corp. Valencia Corporate Center, Jacinto Extn. (082) 305-5312 Southview Travel & Tours Toril (082) 553-4627/ 553-2628 Ticket Shoppe Travel & Tours Jacinto St. (082) 222-4182/ 222-6727 * Travel Advantage Davao Tours Habana Cmpd., Rizal St. (082) 224-6114 Trans Air Travel Services , Inc. 3F Gaisano Mall, Bajada (082) 234-0881

* Psalms Haven & Tours A. Pichon, Mantex Arcade Dr. 1 (fronting Grand Menseng Hotel) (084) 224-8424

Hotel Galleria Gov. Duterte St. (082) 221-2480, 221-2657, 221-2693 [email protected]

HOTELS

Lispher Inn Juna Avenue, Juna Subd. (082) 299-1610

First Class * The Marco Polo Hotel C.M. Recto St. (082) 221-0888, 225-0111 davao@marcopolohotels. com, www. marcopolohotels.com * The Apo View J. Camus cor. Palma Gil St. (082) 221-6430, 221-0748, 221-2281 [email protected] www.apoview.com

* Tropical Holiday Travel & Tours Tionko Ave. (082) 222-4488

* Grand Regal Hotel Km. 7 J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 235-0888, 234-3910 [email protected] www.grandregalhotel.com

Travel & Tours by Triple A & M, Inc Dr. 10 Bldg., 2 Segunda Complex, P. Reyes St. (082) 227-0604

* The Royal Mandaya Hotel J. Palma Gil cor. P. Reyes Streets (082) 225-8888, 221-3430 [email protected]

* Vitor tours & Travel Dr. 3 Porras Bldg, #7 Palma Gil St. (082) 227-6260/ 227-6268

* Waterfront Insular Hotel Lanang (082) 233-2881 to 87 [email protected] www.waterfronthotels.net

* Reiner Travel & Tours Dr. 1, ATP Bldg., J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 235-1571 Kahsan Tours Anda St. (082) 305-5130/ 225-4213 2KN Travel Traders Davao J.P. Laurel, Bajada (082) 222-8353/ 300-4062 Naraval Travel & Tours Rm. 202 Cartas Bldg., C.M. Recto St. (082) 225-1427 Dreamworld Travel & Tours Sta. Ana Ave (082) 225-3967 Tour Davao Com Travel Corp. J.P. Laurel (082) 225-5501 to 04 * Land & Sky Travel & Tours 2nd Level , SM City (082) 299-4137

Standard Microtel Inns and Suites Damosa Gateway Complex, Mamay Road (082) 233-2333, 300-3800 sales@microtelphilippines. com www.microtelphilippines. com

Regency Inn Villa Abrille Street (082) 225-5819, 227-4333 [email protected] Villa Margarita Hotel J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-5674 , 226-2968 Tourist Inn Alicia Mansion L. Guerrero St. (082) 224-2001 to 02 Aljems Inn I A. Pichon St. (082) 221-3060, 221-3698 Aljems Inn II Rizal St. (082) 221-6162, 221-6394 Aveflor Inn C.M. Recto St. (082) 221-0681, 221-8268 Bagobo Hotel Gov. Duterte Street (082) 222-4444, 222-4440 [email protected] Davao Fortune Inn R. Magsaysay Ave. (082) 221-0819, 222-8332 Davao Imperial Hotel Doña Segunda Bldg., Claveria St. (082) 222-4930, 222-4931

Casa Leticia J. Camus Street (082) 224-0501 [email protected] www.casaleticia.com

Humberto’s Hotel 311 Jose Palma Gil Corner Padre Gomez Sts. (082) 222-3831, 222-4105 www.humbertoshotel.com [email protected]. ph, [email protected]

Chateau del Mar C. Lizada Road, Lanang (082) 234-3472, 305-8998

Marbella Mansion Rizal St. (082) 222-0890 to 97

Evergreen Hotel R. Magsaysay Ave. (082) 221-3860

Midland Inn Iñigo St. (082) 221-1775

Grand Men Seng Hotel A. Pichon St. (082) 221-9040, 221-2431 www.menseng.com.ph

Mirage Family Hotel Quirino Ave. (082) 221-2707

Orange Grove Hotel Philippine Japan Friendship Highway (082) 241-0695, 241-0787 Park Square Inn & Restaurant Quimpo Boulevard (082) 298-0258 Roadway Inn J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-9000 to 04 Royal House C.M. Recto St. (082) 221-8105 to 06, 227-3630 Sampaguita Tourist Inn Mt. Mayon St. (082) 227-2958 Sequioa Inn Monteverde St. (082) 300-3636 Southern Tourist Inn Villa Abrille St. (082) 221-7431 Tower Inn Quirino Ave. (082) 221-1099 Economy / Pension House BS Inn B. Gempesaw St. (082) 221-3980

Legazpi Inn Pelayo St. (082) 226-3842 Apartelle Linmarr Apartelle Lakandula St., Agdao (082) 221-2915, 221-5748 Crown Regency Hotel J.P. Cabaguio Ave. (082) 225-8188, 225-8088 www.crownregency.com Chateau Veronica Araullo St. (082) 227-0488, 222-4826 RESTAURANTS / CAFES Filipino Antonio’s Bar & Grill Ground Floor, SM City (082) 299-3904 Buffet Palace Victoria Plaza Carpark, Bajada (082) 224-5157 Cecil’s Snack Inn Anda St. (082) 227-5305 Chickies & Patties China Bank Bldg. 227-3413

Hotel Elena Avenida Santos Ave. (082) 233-1941, 233-1122

Cogot Seafood Restaurant F. Iñigo St. / The Venue Compound (082) 224-1299

Sychar Garden Hotel J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 224-0603

Colasas Barbeque A. Pichon St/ Magallanes St. (082) 224-0098

Alta Pension House J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-1843

Cynthia’s Lechon House & Restaurant Victoria Plaza Carpark / Bo. Pampanga (082) 224-2202/ 221-6238

Elle’s Pension House Mt. Apo St. (082) 221-8499, 221-2637 Manor Hotel A. Pichon St. (082) 221-2511, 221-2514

Dencio’s sa Hilltop Diversion Road, Maa (082) 305-8653

Emerald Inn J. Camus Ext. (082) 225-4825, 221-1641

Dencio’s Kamayan Bonifacio St. (082) 224-3101 SM City (082) 297-1868 NCCC Mall (082) 298-4889

Ponce Suites Doña Vicenta Village (082) 227-9070 to 71, 224-1476

Fiesta Dabaw Native Restaurant Gaisano South/ SM City (082) 224-0006/ 224-5858 gosouth

45

Japanese Tunnel Restaurant Balusog – Matina, Diversion Road (082) 221-5690/ 221-2250 Gerry’s Grill Gaisano Mall Davao (082) 221-9992 / 224-3779

Ranchero Grill Tionko Avenue (082) 225-1199

Korean Restaurant Lanang Krua Thai F. Torres St. (082) 228-6181

Roadhouse Café G/F SM City (082) 297-6280

Mandarin Tea Garden Rizal/ Guerrero/ Ilustre Sts. (082) 221-0425, 224-0679, 227-3912

Golden Brown Restaurant Duterte St. (082) 224-1640

Suka’t Sili Restaurant The Venue Compound, Jacinto Extn. (082) 224-6495

Lotus Court Marco Polo Hotel CM Recto Ave. (082) 221-0888

Habagat Grill Times Beach, Matina (082) 298-0697

Sunburst Fried Chicken Tionko Ave. (082) 222-4844/ 222-4733

Men Seng Restaurant A. Pichon St. (082) 227-4775, 227-8937

* Harana F. Torres St (082) 227-3937 / 221-5615

OMBU Chicken House Sequioa Inn Monteverde St. (082) 300-3636

* Mongolian Garden F. Torres St. 221-9026

Goldilocks Gaisano Mall / SM City (082) 225-1588/ 298-4179

Jack’s Ridge Restaurant Shrine Hills, Matina (082) 297-8830

Yahong F. Torres St.

* New Asia Restaurant Villa Abrille St. (082) 226-4988, 305-0754

Jaltan Food Centrum A. Pichon St. / C.M. Recto-Bonifacio (082) 227-3477/ 227-7246

Yellow Fin Restaurant Sandawa Plaza, Quimpo Blvd. (082) 221-0958/ 227-7778

Rai Rai Ken 2F SM City / Prime Square Compound, F. Torres St. (082) 297-2151

Kusina Dabaw San Pedro St. (082) 226-4103

Oriental * Ahfat Seafood Plaza I and II Victoria Plaza Carpark (082) 228- 5787

Red Moon Chinese Cuisine K1 Complex, F. Torres St. (082) 221-3988

Kuya Ed’s Restaurant A. Pichon St. (082) 224-2162/ 221-5463 Luz Kinilaw Place Salmonan, Quezon Blvd. (082) 226-4612/ 221-8377 Marina Tuna Market Restaurant Bo. Pampanga, Lanang (082) 233-2666 Merco Kiosks Rizal-Bolton Sts. (082) 221-2579 Miggy’s Grill Times Beach, Matina (082) 297-7797 * Nanay Bebeng Restaurant Marfori Heights/ SM City (082) 222-3201/ 297-5801 Paterno’s Restaurant Roxas Ave. (082) 222-4684 Penong’s Barbecue Ilustre St. (082) 227-8363

46

Probinsya Restaurant Victoria Plaza Carpark (082) 225-1455

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Akiko Japanese Restaurant Victoria Plaza Compound (082) 222-6825 Banana Leaf Asian Cuisine Chimes Specialty Store, Sales St. (082) 225-8898 Budha Seafood Restaurant Victoria Plaza Carpark (082) 221-8319/ 224-6587 Dawon Korean Restaurant Apo View Hotel Dencia’s Restaurant Gen. Luna Street (082) 227-6777, 221-0887 Davao Famous Restaurant Gen. Luna St. (082) 227-1972, 227-2633 Dimsum Diner Gaisano Mall/ Guerrero St./ Ilustre St. (082) 221-737, 221-7321 Hanoi Vietnamese Restaurant J. Camus St. / Damosa (082) 225-4501

Café Ilustrado 3rd level, Gaisano South, Ilustre St. (082) 224-0808 Café Marco Marco Polo Davao (082) 221-0888 Chippens Paseo de Roxas Arcade (082) 225-4998, 225-8264 Coco’s South Bistro F. Torres St (082) 222-3494 to 96 Entrée Apo View Hotel J. Camus St. (082) 221-6430 Garden Oases Restaurant Porras St., Sta. Ana District (082) 224-1402 to 03 Kamayo Café The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Palma Gil St. (082) 225-8912

La Toscana Italian Bar & Restaurant R. Dacudao Bldg, Quirino Ave. (082) 305-6556 O’Flannagan’s Ilustre St. (082) 300-1850 * Picobello Italian Restaurant 5/F Gaisano South, Ilustre St. (082) 221-1696 Turquoise Festival Turkish Restaurant G/F SM City (082) 282-0168 Swiss Deli J.P. Laurel St. (082) 234-0271 COFFEE SHOPS Basti’s Brew Victoria Plaza (082) 222-6168

Montemarte Café Grand Regal Hotel, Lanang (082) 235-0888/ 234-3918

BluGre Coffee Shop Landco Bldg, J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-4667

La Parilla Waterfront Insular Hotel, Lanang (082) 233-2821

Bo’s Coffee Shop Metro Lifestyle Complex, F. Torres St. (082) 228-6180

Pancake House SM City / Gaisano Mall (082) 299-2668 / 227-7385

Coffee Dream G/F SM City / Damosa (082) 282-0204

* Sarung Banggi Steak house F. Torres St. (082) 227-3937/ 221-5615

Coffee Monster Café Ilustre St. (082) 224-6699

Tong Yang Hot Pot Chimes Specialty Store, Sales St.

European Café Mediterranean Chimes Specialty Store, Sales St. (082) 225-8997

Fagioli J.P. Laurel Ave.

Tsuru Japanese Restaurant J. Camus St. (082) 221-0901

* Claude’s Le Café de Ville Rizal St. (082) 305-2635 / 222-4287

Zakoya Japanese Buffet F. Torres St. (082) 227-7760

De Bonte Koe Dutch Restaurant Habana Compound, Rizal St. (082) 222-7585

Shanghai Restaurant Magsaysay Avenue (082) 227-5233, 221-3627 Sen Ton Whan Restaurant Victoria Plaza Carpark, (082) 225-0437, 225-0438 Tai Huat Claypot Restaurant Magsaysay Ave. (082) 226-4576, 224-0384

Continental Bigby’s Café & Restaurant G/F SM City (082) 298-0168 / 298-0111 * Bistro Rosario F. Torres St. (082) 224-0808 / 221-9026

* Hagar’s Place Blucor Bldg., Lanang (082) 233-1018 / 234-3028 Hola España Damosa Gateway, Lanang (082) 234-6877

Figaro Chimes Specialty Store, Sales St. Kopi Roti G/F LZ Dental Center Bldg., Jacinto Ext. cor. Araullo St. (082) 301-6009, 224-1518 ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS After Dark Bar & Restaurant Quimpo Blvd. (082) 298-0299 Club 10 Jazz Bar Apo View Hotel (082) 221-6430

Halo The Venue Compound (082) 227-0579 Eagle’s Bar The Marco Polo Hotel C.M. Recto St. (082) 221-0888 K1 KTV F. Torres St. (082) 227-6081 Kanto Bar Matina Town Square (082) 297-7010 Korokan KTV Bar Victoria Plaza Carpark (082) 224-0458 Pops Resto Bar Wheels N More, J.P. Laurel Ave. Rizal Street Café & Bar Rizal Promenade 183 Rizal St. (082) 225-1852/ 221-4839

K1 Spa F. Torres St. (082) 227-6082 Univ. Avenue, Ecoland (082) 299-2819 Metro Lifestyle Complex F. Torres St. cor E. Jacinto St. (082) 226-3711 Philosophy Salon & Spa Florentine Bldg. Bonifacio St. (082) 221-0555, 225-1155 SPORTS FACILITIES Golf Apo Golf and Country Club Dumoy, Toril (082) 297-2150. 297-2036

Visa Restaurant Piano Bar & Karaoke Victoria Plaza Carpark (082) 225-1748

Water Sports Facilities * Carabao Dive Shop Sobrecarey St. Obrero cor. Alzate (082) 300-1092

Bio Essence Facial & Slimming Center Marfori Heights (082) 226-2305 Bliss Salon & Day Spa Landco Corporate Center, J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 225-5677 / 221-8134 Holiday Gym & Spa F. Torres St. (082) 222-3041

SM City Davao Quimpo Blvd, Ecoland (082) 297-6998 Gaisano Mall of Davao J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-6168

NCCC Mall MacArthur Highway corner Ma-a (082) 298-0888

Andrew’s Golf Driving Range Shrine Hills, Matina (082) 297-5086

* Skin Botanicals Homespa Damosa Gateway, Lanang (082) 225-8195, 305-4681

Nieva’s Arts and Crafts Felbest Bldg., Lanang (082) 234-6566 / 235-0392

Ranchos Palos Verdes Mandug, Buhangin (082) 227-9440

Pirata Bar Waterfront Insular Hotel (082) 233-2881

* Asmara Spa Services Grand Regal Hotel (082) 221-8445, 234-4448

Chimes Sales St. (082) 224-1818

Victoria Plaza J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 224-1410

New Davao City Golf Club Matina (082) 297-0711

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Aldevinco Arts and Crafts Center C.M. Recto St.

Lanang Golf and Country Club Lanang (082) 227-5952, 227-5171

Summit Bar The Royal Mandaya Hotel (082) 225-0588

World Palace KTV Quimpo Blvd. (082) 297-4189

SHOPPING

* Davao Scuba Dive Center Sta. Ana Pier (082) 226-2588 Fish Tales Hydrock Bldg. Cabaguio Ave. (082) 222-4347 Samal Island Divers So Kim Cheng Bldg. 6th Ave. Rosemarie St. Agdao (082) 221-2121 www.samalislanddivers. com * Wind and Wave Davao Sta. Ana Pier (082) 227-0234, 300-7914 Bowling NCCC Bowling Center NCCC Mall MacArthur Highway corner Ma-a (082) 298-0888

Gaisano South Citimall Ilustre St. (082) 222-2420 CASINO Davao Casino Filipino Grand Regal Hotel (082) 235-0888 Casino Filipino Apo View Hotel J. Camus St. (082) 221-6430 RESORTS * Eden Nature Park Eden, Toril (082) 299-1020, 296-0791 www.edennaturepark.com * Malagos Garden Resort Malagos, Calinan District (082) 221-1545, 226-4341 * High Ponds Beach Resort Binugao, Toril (082) 291-1148 * Jack’s Ridge Resort and Restaurant Shrine Hills, Ma-a (082) 297-8831 * Jones Beach Resort Salakot Drive, Talomo (082) 298-2691

* Loleng’s Mountain Spring Resort Eden-Bayabas, Toril (082) 221-6228, 221-1099

occasions. It also features umbrella-type and gazebotype cottages for family gatherings.

* Forest Hills Resort Balusog, Matina (082) 221-0318, 221-5693

NATURE PARKS

* Kadayawan Resort Complex Times Beach, Matina (082) 298-0321 * Lantaw Bukid Resort Los Amigos, Tugbok (082) 298-1494, 293-1190 * Water Yahoo & Nature Resort Gumalang, Baguio District (082) 295-0550

Davao del Norte RESORTS Katarina Beach Resort Located near the DENR’s mangrove preservation area in Brgy. Busaon , Tagum City, the site serves as sanctuary for marine life. Barret Beach Resort A few minutes ride from Apocon Estates Corporation, Brgy. Madaum, Tagum City The area overlooks the Madaum Port and the Island Garden City of Samal. Elena’s Inland Resort Brgy. Canocotan, Tagum City With a swimming pool, botanical garden, halls for social functions, and airconditioned cottages Gambrille Resort and Restaurant Sto. Tomas A family resort with a beach type swimming pool and air-conditioned function hall, children’s playground, and fishpond for fishing tilapia. Aqua Land Resort San Vicente, Panabo City With a man-made cave and function hall overlooking the poolside and airconditioned VIP rooms for seminars and other

Magical Hidden Spring of Panas New Corella Features a huge spring and cascading water terraces of various height and width. It has open hut cottages, swimming pool, conference hall, and dressing rooms. Binancian Waterfalls Breathtaking waterfalls located in Liguyon, Binacian, Asuncion. Dakudao Ecotourim Dakudao, Kapalong An 18-hectare ecology park that showcases wildlife, forest, waterfalls, and 18 unspoiled caves. The site has a view deck overlooking the park’s natural landscape and Mt. Ampaoid, a drop-in cottage and campsite with cold flowing potable water. Hawks or eagles are reported to frequent the area in the early morning. Suwaon Natures Park Sambayon, 29 kilometers from the Municipal Hall of Kapalong. Exploring the area requires a two-hour cave exploration that features in-cave waterfalls, cool spring, and glittering stalactites and stalagmites. Datu Balong Hills Can be reached through 30-minute trek from Datu Balong Barangay Hall, Kapalong. The cave is suitable for research and study. Spelunkers call it a technical cave with unspoiled cave life. Matol Falls Can be reached by all types of land vehicles to Barangay Gupitan and 30-minute river crossing and trekking. A break-in mountain waterfalls about 30 feet high. The waterfalls is sandwiched between a split hill with more than 10 ft cool, clear lagoon. gosouth

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San Miguel Caves Located 18 kilometers from the poblacion of San Miguel, Kapalong

Captain’s Deck Bacaltos Bldg., Mirafuentes Subd., Tagum City (084) 400-3848

Hagimit Falls Brgy. Cawag, Samal District Features five cataracts and natural swimming pools.

Iganong Cave and Spring Iganong , Asuncion Home to the bat species called kabyaw.

Marcelino’s Pension House Quirante St., Tagum City (084) 218-1685

Baga Cave In between Brgy Cogon and Linosutan, Talikud Island. About 1800 meters long, this cave has an underground river and various species of bats.

Mt. Mossy Cabadiangan, Talaingod So called because the area is covered with a moss forest. SPECIAL INTERESTS Davao Penal Colony Braulio E. Dujali Inmates show their artistry in wood carving and furniture-making. Their products are available at the display center in the penal farm. TADECO Banana Plantation Panabo City The biggest banana plantation in the country exports its products to Japan and other countries. Ace Flowers Magdum, Tagum City A four-hectare garden of denrobriums, bromeliads, and other ornamental plants. APO Estates Corp. Madaum, Tagum City Tagged as “Little Subic,” APO Estates is a PEZAaccredited eco-industrial zone lying in a 700-hectare land. Minex and Hexat Mining Corp. Magdum, Tagum City Where gold and silver ores from the mountains of Diwalwal are processed. ACCOMMODATIONS Molave Hotel Osmeña St., Tagum City (084) 217-3983, 297-3803 Prime Hotel Rizal St., Tagum City (084) 217-3616 Valle Lodging House Osmeña St., Tagum City (084) 218-4487 48

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Georgia’s Pension House Dalisay Rd., Sto. Niño., Tagum City (084) 218-3128 Eagle’s View Hotel Dalisay- Gante Sts., Tagum City (084) 218-5405 Katrina Beach Resort Busuan, Tagum City (084) 227-3764 NATURAL (ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL) Big Ligid Island Fronting Brgy. Balet, Babak District An island with lush greenery and underwater caves. Mushroom Rock Fronting Brgy. Pangubatan, Kaputian District A mushroom-shaped islet of more than 10 meters in diameter. Punta Paet Brgy. San Remegio, Kaputian District The site offers notable rock formations. Bito Depression Brgy. Guilon, Samal District A natural depression approximately 273 ft below the surface. Believed to have been formed by fallen meteors. Coral Garden Marine Park Talikud Island Home to 53 out of 73 genera of corals found in the country, 9 out of 13 species of sea grasses, and 250 species of aquarium fish. Mt. Putting Bato Sitio Tayapok, Brgy. Guiln The highest peak in the island at 1346 ft. From the summit, one can view Davao City and Mt. Apo.

Aundanao Fish Sanctuary Brgy. Aundanao Its rich marine environment makes the area one of the best dive spots in the region. RESORTS IN ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL * Pearl Farm Beach Resort Kaputian (082) 221-9970-75 (082) 235-0876 * Buenavista Island Resort Small Ligid (082) 296-1442 (082) 299-2992 * Costa Marina Beach Resort Limao (082) 233-1209 * Fernandez Beach Resort Peñaplata 0915-554-9273 * Isla Reta Beach Resort Talikud (082) 234-0903 Island Buenavista Resort Ligid Island (082) 299-1020 * Punta del Sol Catagman (082) 221-2121, 305-3838 Bali-Bali Beach Resort Catagman (082) 234-3067, 234-3068 Mahan Garden Resort Caliclic (082) 301-4022 Paradise Island Beach Resort Caliclic (082) 223-0251 (082) 234-1229 Blue Waters Beach Resort Limao 0919-337-6987

Chemas Garden by the Sea Limao 0917-702-5832 Hof Gorei Kaputian (082) 286-0238, 0918-609-6966 Ilihan Beach Resort Ilihan 0920-254-4920, (082) 224-5345 Monina Garden Resort Babak (082) 301-4068 Pacific Little Secret Talikud (082) 235-1325

Balinsasayaw National Highway Tagum City (084) 218-6492 Chicken Ati-Atihan Lapu-Lapu St ., Tagum City (084) 218-6558 Peking’s Restaurant Tagum City Makulay Restaurant Pioneer Avenue Tagum City (084) 217-3346 Hot Stuff Fast Food Pioneer Avenue, Tagum City (084) 218-2884

RMPC Camudmud, Babak (082) 227-8574

Uncle Fred’s Garden Magugpo East, Tagum City (084) 218-3368

TRAVEL AGENCIES / TOUR OPERATORS

J & K Coffee Shop Tagum City (084) 217-2531

* Asianet Travel & Tours Tagum City (084) 217-3144 * Kingstone Freight & Travel Tagum City Domestic (084)-217-2140 International (084) 2182570 * Okey Travel Center Tagum City (084) 400-4436, 400-4491 L’Viajera Ticketing & Tours 3 Magsaysay Ave. Sto. Tomas (084) 829-0169 Philippine Airlines Ticketing Office Tagum City (084) 217-3409 RESTAURANTS Dencio’s Kamayan National Highway Tagum City (084) 218-5000 Apruv Dine Inn Tagum City (084) 217- 3457 Annette’s Lechon House Quirante II, Tagum City (084) 217-3593

Arman’s Eatery Tagum City (084) 217-3277 Kamalig Tagum City (084) 217-3623 Penong’s Lapu-Lapu St ., Tagum City (084) 218-1455 New Tagum Peking Restaurant Tagum City (084) 217-3826 Randino Tagum City (084) 218-483 Taweng’s Abad Santos, Tagum City (084) 400-3588 Hearts Entwined Tagum City (084) 400-1845 Helen’s Catering Services Tagum City (084) 218-1668 MC CEL’s Cakes & Catering Services Tagum City (084) 400-1874 Ning Nang Food Services Tagum City (084) 218-1791

Jollibee National Highway, Tagum City (084) 218-8888

Davao Oriental

Greenwich NCCC Mall, National Highway, Tagum City (084) 400-3767

HISTORICAL

Dunkin Donuts Tagum City (084) 218-2284 NCCC Food Court NCCC Mall, National Highway, Tagum City (084) 218-4589 JS Gaisano Food Court Tagum City (084) 217-3141 Gaisano Center Food Court Tagum City (084) 217-3319 Magnolia Kiosk Tagum City (084) 217-3209 McDonald’s In front of City Hall Via Ame Abad Santos St . (084) 400-4577 Eagle’s View Hotel & Restaurant Gante Avenue, Magugpo West, Tagum City (084) 218-5405 TOURIST INFO SERVICES Tagum City Tourism Office (084) 218-4727 Panabo City Tourism Office 0917-984-1121 Igacos Tourism Office (082) 227-0963 Carmen Tourism Office 0920-719-3357 B.E. Dujali Tourism Office (084) 822-0496

17th Century Caraga Church At the town proper of Caraga, about 70 meters from the edge of a built-in port made of ancient rocks overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Considered one of the oldest churches in Mindanao that houses the 1802 church bell brought by friars from Spain. Altar Cave of San Agustin Brgy. Parola, Governor Generoso. Can be reached through private or hired vehicles only. Approximately 60 feet above the shoreline, this cave altar naturally made of stones is said to be the site where St. Francis Xavier held his first mass in the country. Facing the Pacific Ocean, powdery whitesand along the beach spread at the right and left side of the altar. Saoquegue Cave Brgy. Saoquegue, about 14 kms from downtown Caraga. Rediscover the past with centuries-old artifacts, jars , and potteries in the cave. Mandaya Weaving and Beading Center Located at the compound of the Provincial tourism Complex in Mati City. A one-stop-shop of novelty items and native delicacies, the center is a showcase of Mandaya culture to local and foreign visitors. Pusan Point Caraga Also called the Site of the First Sunlight of the New Millennium NATURE Sleeping Dinosaur Peninsula Visible upon passing the 8-km Badas Zigzag road to downtown Mati. The 57-hectare island resembles a sleeping dinosaur

Aliwagwag Falls Located in the middle of a forest in Brgy. Aliwagwag, Cateel. Can be reached by private or hired vehicles, and hiking. Featuring a series of 84 falls cascading like a stairway in various heights Calapagan Hotspring Located in Lupon, 30minutes ride from Mati. A hot mineral spring surrounded by woodlands Sigaboy Island 30-minute ride by paddle boat from the town proper of Governor Generoso. If you’re lucky enough, you can spot a school of dolphins and sea cows reported to frequent near this 30-hectare islet of lush tropical foliage lined with white-sand beaches. Mt. Hamiguitan and Tinagong Dagat Brgy. La Union, San Isidro Mt. Hamiguitan is home to thousands of centuriesold pygmy trees. Nearby is an upland lake called Tinagong Dagat (Hidden Sea) that serves as a haven for various species of rare and exotic birds and other animals. Pujada Island Can be reached through 30-minute pump boat ride from Mati City A 156-hectare island surrounded by white-sand beaches. Visible from the island is another sand bar islet called Oak Island. Waniban Island 15-minute boat ride from Cinco Masao Resort in Brgy. Masao, Mati City This 40-hectare island is surrounded by white sandy beaches and is home to a number of local tribes who make a living through hunting and fishing. Burias Islet Located in the boundary of Maputi and Puntalinao waters in Banaybanay. A one-hectare white sand islet that can be seen only during low tide.

Dahican Beaches 15-minute ride from Mati Walk on white-sand beach, surf on the waves, sail with the breeze, or eat the spectacular seafood

Shan & Hazel Rizal St., Mati City (087) 811-2257, 388-3653

Cawa-Cawa Pools Brgy. Maputi, San Isidro Can be reached by an hour-long ride on motorcycles, locally known as habal-habal, from the town proper. Cawa-Cawa natural pool has crystalclear waters about 15 feet deep, and is surrounded by thick forests and wild rare orchids.

Knots Grill Ihaw-Ihaw Limatoc St., Mati City (087) 388-4627

ACCOMMODATIONS * Roque’s Pension House Marcos Ave., Mati City (087) 388-3374 Provincial Tourism Complex and Annex Menzi Hills, Mati City (087) 388-4013 / 388-4015 Hotel Beatrice Bonifacio St., Mati City (087) 388-4655 Houdini’s Hideaway Inn Bonifacion St. , Mati City (087) 388-3913 Masao Beach Resort Sitio Masao, Mati City (081) 811-5608 San Isidro Homestay Poblacion, San Isidro +63918-7684761 Andrada Inn Mati City (087) 388-3227 Botona Beach Resort Dahican, Mati City (087) 811-5609 GSP Homestay Mati City (087) 388-4025 RESTAURANTS Kinanatu Restaurant Provincial Tourism Complex Menzi, Mati City (087) 388-4013 Chika Deli-Ihaw-Ihaw Place Bonifacio St., Mati City (087) 388-3479

Ian & Fides Ihaw-Ihaw Place Bonifacio St., Mati City

Kapetol Restaurant Capitol Hills, Mati (087) 388-4068 Honey’s Restaurant Matiao, Mati (087) 811-4038, 811-0213, 388-4052 Tita Venus Restaurant Del Pilar St., Mati (087) 388-3276 Moding’s Restaurant Nazarino St., Mati (087) 811-0127, 388-3225 Seaside Fastfood Quezon St., Mati (087) 388-3544 Pujada Inn Bar & Restro Restaurant Bonifacio St., Mati (087) 811-1188, 388-3913 Barkada Restaurant Madang St., Mati (087) 388-4459 D Fountain View (Bordas) Nazareno St., Mati (087) 811-1504, 388-3615 Panadero Cafe Rizal St., Mati (087) 388-3620 TICKETING OFFICES Philippine Airlines Ticketing Office Almario Bldg., Rizal St., Mati City (087) 388-3492 Sulpicio Lines Ticketing Office Almario Bldg., Rizal St., Mati City (087) 388-3492 TOURISM OFFICE Provincial Tourism Office Menzi Hills, Mati City (087) 388-4041, 388-4015

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Davao del Sur HISTORICAL Bauing Japanese Tunnels Hagonoy Where distorted and cannibalized weapons believed to be of Japanese origin were found. Tologan Japanese Tunnels Hagonoy The tunnels served as hiding place and garage for war equipment and weapons of the Japanese during the Second World War. CULTURAL Binaton Bagobo Village Digos City Revel in the ethnic arts and culture of the tribe in this village inhabited by the Bagobos. Colon Sabak B’laan Village Matanao The tribal way of life is still being practiced even by the younger generation in this B’laan village. Handloom Weaving Center Tiongko Farms, Astorga, Sta. Cruz The center takes pride in their hand-woven cloths and novelties with intricate designs. MAN-MADE Lamidan Beach Resort Don Marcelino The resort’s guest house located on top of a hill provides a panoramic view of the sea, Malita and its adjoining areas. Leling Beach Located 3 kilometers away from the National Highway in Hagonoy. The property features a function room to cater 100150 persons for seminars and other occasions. Other facilities include rooms, dining halls, and huts and cottages suitable for family vacations. 50

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Kisulad Puting Balas Beach Located 8 kilometers from the poblacion of Sta. Maria. The site has a kilometerlong white, pristine shoreline.

function room, and a garden ideal for wedding and other occasions.

Mariscal Beach Resort Located 6 kilometers from Sta. Maria poblacion. Can be reached by private or public transportation. Dubbed as Little Boracay, the site boasts of scenic mountain hills and whitesand shoreline as beautiful as the beaches in the famous island of Boracay.

Sibulan River Sta. Cruz. Can by reached by a 20-minute motorcycle ride from the poblacion. One of the clearest rivers in Mindanao, Sibulan river is shaping into backpackers’ favorite destination. It is the site of the newest craze called Water Tubing, the local version of white water rafting.

Barayong Kamonsilan Resort Magsaysay Nestled in a tropical setting with a stream, lush vegetation and a durian orchard. The resort features fresh spring water swimming pools for adults and kids, and open-air cottages. Bolinao Beach Resort Brgy. Dawis, Digos City An array of privatelyowned resorts with openair cottages, function halls, and outdoor recreational facilities. Encar Resort 1 kilometer from the poblacion of Magsaysay. Accessible by any type of vehicle. The resort is situated amidst rice field, coconut trees, and fruitbearing trees. It also has a spring water pool with a diving board. Narvasa Kalapaw Swimming Resort Located 4 kilometers from the poblacion of Magsaysay Features a natural landscape with kidneyshaped swimming pool adults and kids. With plenty of open-air cottages in the vicinity. Villa Angelika Garden Resort Brgy. Cabligan, 12 kilometers away from Digos City. A man-made recreational resort located on top of a hill with swimming pools, mini zoo, children’s park with replica of some animals, umbrella cottages,

NATURE

Tibangao Caves Sanghay, Malita Caves with several entrances feature underground springs, stalactites and stalagmites. It is also home to a growing number of bats. Lumayan Spring Brgy. Balabag, about 11 kilometers from Digos City proper. Getting to this underground spring requires a 45-minute hike from the jump-off point in Sitio Bandira. Tudaya Falls From Sta. Cruz, the falls can be reached through Kapatagan or Sibulan trail The highest waterfalls in Mt. Apo Natural Park, Tudaya is a 100-meter waterfalls from a rock cliff to a 50-meter diameter pool. It takes 6 hours trek via Sibulan trail or 3 hours via Kapatagan.

by pump boat. The area’s rich marine environment makes it one of the best diving sites in the province. Kipanan Falls In Little Baguio, 42 kilometers from Malita poblacion and can be reached by four-wheel drive vehicles to the brgy. proper and 1-km walk downhill and upstream or horseback for 30 minutes. The multi-tiered falls consists of 10 falls of varying widths and heights. Housing or resting facilities are only available in the barangay proper. Road condition to the area is generally rough and winding. Napan Falls Breathtaking 25-foot waterfalls situated in brgy. Goma, 10.9 kilometers away from downtown Digos. Accessible by both public and private transport. Marawer Hot and Cold Spring Located 5 kilometers from Brgy. Kapatagan. Can be reached by a motorcycle and 400-meter walk downstream toward the spring. With steaming water that gushes out of a hill and surrounded by lush greenery.

Padada Marine Sanctuary Located adjacent to Piape Reef facing Piape hills, about 45 kilometers east of Padada poblacion facing Davao Gulf. Can be reached on a motorized boat in 5-7 minutes. The sanctuary serves as breeding ground of 50-60 species of marine life with an area of 50 hectares surrounded with buoys from BFAR for protection and identification.

Datal Lanao Lake Situated uphill at sitio Datal Lanao in Brgy. Bacungan, 5 kilometers from the poblacion of Magsaysay. Motorcycles serve only up to the take-off point at Sitio Asbangilok. From the jump-off point, a 5-hour trek via thick bushes and river stream. Neophyte trekkers are advised to horseback to the area. This 2-hectare spring, which also serves the B’laan settlers in the area, has a scenic view of the municipality of Matanao and Colombo, Sultan Kudarat.

Pasig Island Sta. Cruz, 15 minutes away from poblacion and can be reached by 5-minute ride

Shoreline Mangrove Hagonoy From this 120-hectare mangrove area, you can

hear the melodious sound of birds at the crack of dawn; thousands also dot the sky during sunsets. The area consists of five coastal barangays. Piape Reef Estimated 9 kilometers from the poblacion of Padada and 5 kilometers from Piape shoreline. Accessible by motorized boat from the shoreline to the reef. A coral reef with an area of more than 4 hectares, it serves as breeding ground for marine life. The area is only visible during low tide. SPECIAL INTEREST Davao Sugar Central Hagonoy, 7 kilometers from Digos City. A sugarcane processing plant that exports brown and refined sugar. Mindanao Rural Life Center Bansalan A 19-hectare rural development project of the Philippine Baptist Mission. The center is known for its SALT system and other innovative agricultural technologies. Franklin Baker Coconut Dessicating Plant Sta. Cruz The biggest coconut dessicating plant in the province. Don Mariano Marcos Foundation School Kiblawan A fishery school that features fish culture demonstration Lapanday Banana Plantation Hagonoy One of the biggest banana plantations in Mindanao Aqua-Culture Investor Corp. Malita A prawn farm known for its modern facilities. Matti Pottery Industry Matti, Digos The site features traditionally-made pots of different shapes and sizes.

Ceramic Factory Mabini, Digos City Locals patronize the factory’s products for debuts, wedding giveaways, and home décors.

Big Taste Chinese Restaurant Digos City (082) 553-6702

Babatalias Banig Bags Digos Takes pride in their well-trained craftsmen and high-quality banig products for export.

Badyner’s Restaurant Poblacion, Sta. Maria 0917-4298708

Balasinon Oyster Shell Producers Association Sulop Features bottled and processed oyster shells for export and local markets. San Miguel Brewery Located along the national highway of Darong, Sta. Cruz It is the biggest brewery in Asia. ACCOMMODATIONS Hotel de Crisbelle National Highway Digos City (082) 553-2332, 553-5473 A & B Hotel and Café Rizal Ave., Digos City (082) 553-5218 Carl’s Pension House Maruya St., Malita (082) 200-500 Southwest Lodge Quirino St., Malita (082) 150-250 Villa Isabel Resort Bagumbayan, Malalag (082) 350-450, 0919-782-9381 Bahay ni Nanay Zone 3, Sta. Cruz 0919-345-2549 RESTAURANTS Bamiyan Chinese Restaurant Crisbelle Hotel Digos City (082) 553-2332, 553-5473 Oceanic Food Center R. Magsaysay St. Digos City (082) 553-2332

Prangel’s Restaurant Digos City (082) 553-2556

Villa Isabel Resort Bagumbayan, Malalag 0919-7829381 Mutya & Matt Food Bar Poblacion, Malita 0917-336-2563 Beb’s Bakery & Restaurant Digos City (082) 553-2667 Arnaldo’s Restaurant Digos City (082) 553-3314 TOURISM-ORIENTED ORGANIZATIONS Provincial Tourism Office Capitol Bldg., Matti Digos City (082) 553-2075, 553-2105, 553-6876

Omandac Beach View Resort Mabini coastline Gloria Beach Resort Pantukan Magnaga Waters Beach Resort Pantukan Pajo Beach Resort Mabini AGRICULTURAL DESTINATIONS Stanfilco Maragusan. A banana and pineapple plantation with packing plants, guesthouse, cottages, and hot spring pool that serves as sauna for visitors. Reserve a week before for agricultural tours. Dizon Farms In Nueva Visayas, 2 kilometers from Mawab. Features citrus (pomelo) fruits that are scientifically grown and chemically treated before crating. Marsman Farms Mawab Exports bananas

Compostela Valley

NATURAL

RESORTS

Kopiat Island Mabini Has wide sections of shoreline blanketed with fine white sand and unspoiled reef areas with rare beds that serve as sanctuary for exotic fish and other aquatic animals. The island is also home to the endangered hawksbill turtles.

Golden Valley Resort Magsaysay, Nabunturan Aguacan Cold Spring Resort Maragusan, about 83 kilometers from Nabunturan. Can be reached by four-wheeldrive vehicles. Toyuzu Inland Resort Mainit, Nabunturan Judilla Inland Resort Sitio Bamboo of Brgy. Andap, 7 kilometers away from the poblacion of New Bataan Kapatagan In-land Resort Laak, 83 kilometers away from Nabunturan and 13 kilometers from the poblacion of Laak

Kumaykay Falls Panansalan

Lake Leonard Maco Colorful butterflies hover around the lake and river that’s also ideal for fishing Lunod Island or St. Anthony Island Mabini. Can be reached by 15-minute motorized banca ride from any of the major loading and unloading points located along the coast of the municipality.

Known as “lunod” (sink) because the island looks sunken in thick mangroves Malumagpak falls Sitio Manurinao, New Bataan Malumagpak Falls is the center of the Mt. Manurigao adventure climb. Visiting Mansaka Tribal community is also part of the climbing event.

San Vicente Caves San Vicente, Nabunturan Composed of four caves of varied formations. One is a sinking cave which starts with a 60 ft drop at its entrance. Other caves feature popcorn-shaped crystal formations or are made up of limestone. ACCOMMODATIONS

Marangig Falls New Albay, 7 kilometers away from Maragusan’s poblacion Composed of 13 falls

* Manaklay Beach Park and Resort Pindasan, Mabini (084) 217-3996, 0917-480-4937

Tagbibinta Falls Brgy. Coronobe, 5 kilometers from the town proper of Maragusan

Aguacan Cold Spring Resort Maragusan

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING White Peak New Bataan Part of the proposed protected area in Mt. Tagub, the area gets its name from the white glittering stones that cover the peak. Atop the mountain is a bonsai garden and a densely thick forest which is home to wild animals like deer. Mt. Manurigao New Bataan The mountain rises to 4,000 ft above sea level and is home to wild animals like deer and the Philippine Eagle Mt. Candalaga 7,880 above sea level, the mountain features 30 waterfalls and 100 cold springs. It is also home to the world’s largest flower, rafflesia. CAVES Kumbilan Cave Monkayo Features stalactites and stalagmites. The cave also serves as lair to fruit bats, locally known as kabyaw. Register at the Barangay Hall and coordinate with a cave guide before entering the cave.

Maragusan Holiday Plaza Ground Level, Municipal Gym, Maragusan Durian Inn Mahogany St., Maragusan Cabana Pension House Mahogany St., Maragusan Lanipao Retreat House Lanipao, Araibo, Pantukan Magnaga Waters and Resorts Magnaga, Pantukan (084) 217-3144, 400-2708 Comval Hotel Poblacion, Nabunturan Toyuzo Hot Spring Resort Brgy. Bukal, Nabunturan Kapatagan Inland Resort Poblacion Laak TOURISM-RELATED ORGANIZATIONS Provincial Tourism Council (084) 376-0943 Nabunturan Cavers Club 0917-719-2105 or thru Office of the Mayor New Bataan Ecological Society for Tourism Development and Protection (NESTPROTECT) (084) 376-0943 Maragusan Tourism Office / Office of the Mayor (084) 376-1036 Nabunturan Tourism Office / Office of the Mayor (084) 376-115, 376-1072 gosouth

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COMPOSTELA VALLEY davao ORIENTAL

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postcard from davao

Underwater





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he multi-hued whole corals and luminescent fish of Marissa Reef caught the eye of JOHN OWENS while diving in the west coast of Samal Island. Marissa Reef is one of the famous diving spots in Samal and is often visited by hawksbill turtles, pelagics, and lobsters. Owens, chief of party of the Microenterprise Access to Banking Services program supported by USAID, is a frequent traveler to Davao City and Pearl Farm resort. He has been living and working in the Philippines since 1999.

Found something fantastic about Davao region? Tell us about it and get published! GoSouth magazine accepts contributions of original unpublished travel articles and high-resolution photos. Articles must be from 300 to 600 words, and photos at least 300dpi. GoSouth reserves the right to edit contributions for brevity and clarity. Send your articles and photos to [email protected]. 58

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