Gosouth Davao Travel Magazine

gosouth Davao at your fingertips

The golden sights of Compostela Valley Davao City’s vibrant nightlife Touring Samal Island Water tubing in Davao del Sur Like Gulliver in Mt. Hamiguitan Dawn Zulueta on her Davao

gosouth Includes calendar, transport schedules, directories, and maps

mAY- JUNE 2008 Php 100

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Come, visit, and experience. the Madgao River. Ideal for kayaking, rowing, boating, and swimming. At Sitio Madgao, Sagayen, Asuncion, Davao del Norte Contact: Engr. Servando B. Lawas Municipal Tourism Officer Tel. (084) 373-0300 Cell Num: 0927-700-1007

editor’s note

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Publisher Alma L. Uy Editor in Chief Debbie A. Uy Associate Editor Jane L. Sardoma Layout & Design Jose Bagane B. Fiola Contributors this issue Neela Duallo, Kenth O’Bajo, Bing Peña, Jerome Tambaoan, Erwin Tay, Leo Yap

Why travel? As our driver negotiated the steep and sometimes rough slopes of Compostela Valley, I wondered what makes people leave the comforts of home to take unfamiliar roads. The reasons are plenty: to explore a new place, take on new adventures, experience other cultures, taste different foods, retrace history, to see for oneself wonders of man and nature. This kind of traveling rarely equates to a vacation. There are so many things to see and do that the days mirror those spent in school, but in a bigger, more interesting way. To the close-minded, prejudiced, and obsessive-compulsive person, traveling can be just the antidote to open minds and hearts, and relax. Because the traveler is the foreigner, he must adapt. The respectful traveler recognizes this, and appreciates when a place and its people welcome her. To the obsessive compulsive, the unpredictability of travel can be unnerving, yet this same element of surprise is what stands out when we recount our travels. In exploring a new place, we seek to find the familiar in the new, but for a local in his hometown, the challenge is greater: how can the familiar be new again? The answer, I find, is to keep that sense of wonder, curiosity, and openness to learning – qualities applicable even when not traveling. A constant appreciation of nature’s beauty might make environmentalists of us all but more importantly, it can heal the soul; faced with so much beauty, why focus on the sad and negative? As we went further up the mountains of Compostela Valley, the view became grander – thick mountains of trees, waterfalls by the road, the wide Agusan river, a bird’s eye view of an unspoiled land. Why else do we travel? I think, it is also to be amazed.

Davao Region Tourism Council Chairman Alma L. Uy Directors Jerome A. Un dalok, 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.

Editor in Chief

Printed in Hong Kong.

Top: The road at Lamdag Panginabuhi Provincial Farm in Compostela Valley. Photo by Jerome Tambaoan. 4

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For inquiries on advertising, please email [email protected] and go_southmag@yahoo. com or call (6382) 221-0070 and 221-6955.

Come celebrate in the Palm Cit y of the South, Tagum Cit y, Davao del Norte Musikahan Summer Sports Festival Durian Festival Kaimonan Pakaradjan Festival Tagum Fiesta Pamaskong Handog

what’s inside

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May - June 2008

Vol. 1 issue 2

14 WEAVERS OF DREAMS

To the T’bolis, the T’nalak – a fine piece of cloth woven from abaca fiber – is the story of their dreams and their lives

16 BE OUR GUEST

Take our day tour to Samal Island: snorkeling and diving in coral-rich waters, visiting the bat cave and waterfalls, and viewing the sunset from the mountain

ON THE COVER A young dancer glitters at Compostela Valley’s first Bulawan Festival, a celebration of the province’s rich gold deposits. Photo by Leo Yap. Full story on page 24. Sections

8 Calendar of Events 10 Travel Notes 12 Proudly Davao 32 Shopping Bag 39 Transport Schedules 41 Directory 48 Maps 54 Postcard from Davao

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Nightlife in Davao City has it all – a diverse blend of the hip, cosmopolitan, bohemian, and wholesome

24 BEHOLD COMPOSTELA VALLEY

Compostela Valley is a province of nature unspoiled, blessed with lush forests, gushing waterfalls, foggy mornings, and rich mineral deposits

33 GULLIVER’S PARADISE

Davao Oriental’s Pygmy Forest in Mt. Hamiguitan can make even a short man feel like Gulliver

35 SHOOTING THE RAPIDS

A natural rollercoaster ride in the clear Sibulan River awaits the adventurous traveler to Davao del Sur

37 DAWN FINDS HER HOME IN DAVAO

Actress and congressional spouse Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo talks about why Davao is home sweet home

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20 DAVAO CITY LOVES THE NIGHTLIFE

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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

May - June 2008

MAY 1-4

Davao Gulf Regatta

Davao Oriental

This region-wide event welcomes the fluvial parade of colorful vintas and bancas of different designs converging along the Davao gulf for competition.

MAY 23-27

SUMMER SPORTS FESTIVAL

Tagum City, Davao del Norte

PHOTO COURTESY OF TAGUM CITY TOURISM OFFICE

Tagum’s second major festival is packed with summer sports such as wall-climbing, beach volleyball, lawn tennis, sepak takraw, table tennis, badminton, taekwondo, marathon, chess, adventure race, and basketball.

MAY 26-30

Malumagpak Challenge

New Bataan, Compostela Valley A trek to Mt. Manurigao-Malumagpak, one of the newly discovered eco-tourism destinations in the region.

JUNE 4-10

Philippine Eagle Week

Davao City

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PHOTO COURTESY OF PHILIPPINE EAGLE FOUNDATION

Flaunting its imposing figure with its sharp stare, strong legs and claws, and crown of lance-shaped feathers, this “king of birds”—the second largest eagle and the only blue-eyed raptor in the world—is Davao City’s pride. The Philippine Eagle Nature Center, an eighthectare encampment run by a private foundation from contributions of big companies mostly from Metro Manila and from Davao, is now home to 35 Philippine eagles, including the 20 captive-bred produced through artificial insemination and natural

pairing techniques. The center has also become the propagation center for other species like white-bellied sea eagles, grey-headed fishing eagles, and Philippine hawk eagles. It is also home to 140 other animals. The 10th Philippine Eagle Week celebrates these majestic birds through a week-long activity that includes exhibits, animal encounters, and art workshops.

JUNE 14-16

Pujada Bay Festival

Mati City, Davao Oriental Davao Oriental is blessed with natural attractions and underwater treasures that are as boundless as its surrounding seas. With all these wonders, the province, which is the region’s “oriental gem,” rightly holds the fluvial celebration Pujada Bay Festival to showcase their bounty. Events include boat tour at the bay, lectures on coastal protection and management, cultural presentation, and grand parade.

Dorong Festival Kapatagan, Digos City

In this town where the Bagobo tribe has engraved their colorful traditions, the month of June heralds a festival that honors these indigenous peoples and their sacred worship grounds—the country’s highest peak, Mt Apo. Immerse in activities that manifest the charm of the tribe’s cultural beliefs and crafts. With different jam-packed activities like mountain bike race, motocross, mountain climbing and tree-planting, Dorong Festival is as flamboyant as the Bagobos.

JUNE 18

Palay Festival

Carmen, Davao del Norte Palay Festival showcases artistic street dancing that expresses the farmers’ hardship in the planting and harvesting of rice, the municipality’s major agricultural product.

JUNE 22-23

Pabulig Festival

Boston, Davao Oriental A vibrant thanksgiving festival for a bountiful harvest, featuring cultural presentations and street dancing.

JUNE 23

Buganihan Festival

Compostela, Compostela Valley The festival honors the Bugani, the early settlers of the Compostela municipality, and celebrates the humble beginnings and the leap of developments that have marked the years.

3RD WEEK OF JUNE

Sal’lupongan Festival

New Bataan, Compostela Valley A thanksgiving tribal festival for good harvest and unity of its people.

3RD WEEK OF JUNE Bauldayawan Festival

San Isidro, Davao Oriental

Coined from Mandaya words baul (farm), da (from dagat or sea), and yawan (to keep), Bauldayawan is a thanksgiving festival that showcase San Isidro’s underwater and highland riches.

JUNE 29

San Pedro Festival

Davao City

Feast in honor of the City’s patron saint.

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pujada bay hoto by Keith Bacongco

JUNE 14-19

travel notes

Country’s biggest gold ring in Comval

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n embarrassment of riches like gold can divide people but it can also unite, as in the making of the country’s biggest gold ring in Compostela Valley. Local officials, miners, and private individuals from the province and Davao del Norte donated gold to forge the P1.5-million Solidarity Ring. The two-toned ring, unveiled at the opening of Compostela Valley’s Bulawan (Gold) Festival last March, measures a diameter of five inches and weighs 1.3 kilos of gold. The ring is marked with 1998, the year ComVal became a province. Compostela Valley is known for its rich gold deposits, a resource it is maximizing to become the jewelry capital of the Philippines.

PHOTOs BY DAU

Beach volleyball in the heart of the city

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rban dwellers in Tagum City don’t need to go to the beach to play beach volleyball; the Philippines’ first Beach Volley Drome is right in the heart of Tagum City. Fourteen truckloads of 18-feet-thick white sand from Masau beach in Mati were hauled and poured to create the Beach Volley Drome. Concrete bleachers that can seat 400 surround the four sides of the court. The bleachers are roofed, but the court is wide open to the sun. Last year, Tagum’s Volley Drome was the training ground of the Philippine beach volley team to the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand. This year, the court hosted the Mindanao elimination round of the Nestea Beach Volleyball tournament.

Big dreams for Mindanao

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he biggest proposed development project in Mindanao is getting important support, while Tagum City is taking inspiration from Subic in developing a former banana haven. Here’s a look at two projects that promise to boost the region’s business and tourism potentials.

Mindanao Railway System The dream of Mindanaoans to have an island-wide mass transportation system is closer to reality with two major efforts supporting it. The Mindanao Railway System is one of the priority projects identified in the Davao Region Development Plan (DRDP) for 2004-2010. Mindanao congressmen this year endorsed to President Arroyo the bill paving the way for the construction of the Mindanao Railway System as urgent, making it part of the agenda of the Philippine Congress. A memorandum of understanding has also been signed by business groups and the MCC Capital, a consortium of German, French, Austrian, Indian and Thai railway experts, to jointly finance a $10-million feasibility study on the project. The governments of Germany, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and Iran have also expressed interest in participating in the P18-billion project. Germany

will invest P15.4 billion while Saudi Arabia will lend $40 million and donate another $10 million or a total of P2.705 billion. The investments would partly finance the 83kilometer Cagayan-Cotabato Phase of the project that would link the cities of Iligan, Cagayan de Oro, Gingoog, Marawi and Cotabato. The railway system will also connect the Cotabato, Davao, and Caraga regions and Northern Mindanao.

Soon, a Subic in Tagum Tagum City has converted the former abaca and banana plantation of Hijo into an industrial zone that is seen to be the Subic of the South. Renovation on the 760 hectare land started in September 2007 and when completed, will boast of an economic zone that promotes business and tourism. Already in operation is the LanikaiMadaum River Cruise, which takes guests on a tour along scenic Madaum River and introduces local culture. Lanikai Resort, situated in the industrial zone, is adding to its amenities an 18 hole golf course, clubhouse, wellness farm, lighthouse tower and restaurant. The city government of Tagum will also build a land transport terminal, fire and police station, a utility park, training center, and commercial center near the area. gosouth

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proudly davao

Say ‘Davao’ and one instantly thinks durian, pomelo, Mt. Apo, and Philippine Eagle. These are brands that have long been associated with the region, but there are other brands that are gaining recognition and are proudly Davao.

Young oil company soars high

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oing around Davao region and parts of Southern Mindanao, the traveler will find more and more retail gas stations bearing the red-and-golden colors and flying bird logo of Phoenix Petroleum Philippines. It’s a brand that is proudly Davao. The company’s name is inspired by the mythical Phoenix bird, a symbol of immortality, invincibility, and rebirth. It’s an apt metaphor for the newest kid on the block facing the oil giants.

Petroleum successfully listed in the Philippine Stock Exchange, the first independent oil company to do so after the oil deregulation law was passed in 1998, and the first Davao-based company to go public. Since its first retail station in June 2005, Phoenix has expanded to 60 stations in Southern Mindanao by April 2008. By year-end, Phoenix expects to open 100 stations.

“Facing the majors, fear could easily bring us down,” says Phoenix Petroleum President & CEO Dennis A. Uy. “But we converted our fears to inspiration, knowing that all these companies started from scratch. With the right people moving towards one goal, I believe we can perform, armed with a good brand.”

Aside from operating retail stations, the company trades lubricants and other chemical products and operates oil depots and storage facilities. Phoenix also exclusively services all refueling requirements of Cebu Pacific in all its Mindanao destinations. Phoenix has also formed ties with major international petroleum companies, Thailand’s PTT and UAE’s Emarat.

This focus on people, passion, and performance has made the six-year-old company one of the most successful businesses in Davao and Southern Mindanao. In 2007, Phoenix

Phoenix Petroleum is now working to expand its presence and operation nationwide, finally bringing a Davao brand in the league of the majors.

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travel notes

A walk in the park

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ince December last year, locals and tourists have flocked to Davao City’s newest attraction, the four-hectare People’s Park right in the middle of the city.

The sprawling park, which cost P71 million to build, offers myriad attractions: thousands of species of plants and trees from around the world, a fantasy-themed park for children, a visitors’ center built with a durian dome design, the Sunken Garden, the pine-tree enclosed Green Theater, and ponds filled with more than a thousand exotic tropical ornamental fishes like Japanese koi, flowerhorn, goldfish, carp, guppies, and swordtail.

PHOTos by debbie a. uy

All over the park are sculptures by Mindanaoan artist Kublai Millan of young, wide-eyed natives in varied scenes – farming, harvesting, playing, running, swimming, sweeping – providing a slice of ordinary life in a not-so-ordinary setting. Free entrance. Opening hours: 5 to 8 am, 1 to 11 pm.

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Culture

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ttired in hand-loomed dresses with red and black accents of intricate designs, women from the T’boli tribe, one of the indigenous groups in southern Philippines, perform the ethnic and sacred rituals of weaving fabrics at the T’boli Weaving Center at Waterfront Hotel in Davao City. Like Surrealists, sleep is significant to T’bolis. They say their dreams are their strength – dreams guide their life and their skillful hands. To the T’bolis, T’nalak – a fine piece of cloth woven from abaca fiber – reflects dreams and stories of their life. Intriguingly, the only masters of this art are women who are said to be “pure” and “uncontaminated” by others. The weaver should also be willing to embrace the sacredness of the ritual that she should not mate with her husband for the whole duration of the process lest the purity of the ritual and the design be broken.

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Weavers of

dreams Text by JANE SARDOMA PhotoS by ERWIN TAY

Elena, at the T’boli Weaving Center at Waterfront Hotel, has been weaving fine T’nalak for a decade now.

For the women, weaving dreams is a grueling but intimate task where the weaver puts her soul on the art to capture the vision and dreams of their ancestors and reveal it on the fabric. Men are not allowed to touch the materials. But prior to the weaving, men take part in the boiling, dyeing, and drying of the abaca fibers—a process that usually takes days to weeks. The weaver should be gifted with creativity and sharp memory to remember intricate geometric patterns.

Today, they still weave and wear their dreams. Not only of life stories and dreams, the weaving of the T’boli also showcases an artistry that never fades through time. The patterns, which are protectively handed down from one generation to another, have always gained the interest of foreign and national designers who marvel at the crude weaving

process. Some weavers fabricate new patterns from new dreams, so the tapestries evolve but the craftsmanship is still evidently and distinctly T’boli. Modernity is seen a threat to their artistic heritage. On the sides of Lake Sebu in South Cotabato which is the heartland of the T’boli people, recent developments like the sprouting of resorts around the lake and influx of tourists are slowly encroaching on their life and art. But the government, NGOs and other concerned organizations like the Lake Sebu Women Weavers Association, Inc. are uniting to rescue the dying artistic heritage of the T’boli tribe. Today, day and night, the weavers, beneath their huts, in silence, up the mountains near Lake Sebu, continue sleeping, dreaming, and weaving. To them, losing their art does not only mean losing a livelihood but losing also old dreams and life stories only they could tell.

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a day in samal

Be our guest Samal Island never runs out of things to offer to keep your cool during the hottest days of the year. Spend a day around the island with JANE SARDOMA 16

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ummer is the perfect time for outdoor activities—from hitting the beach or basking under the sun, diving or snorkeling, to island hopping and touring inland. Davao del Norte’s gem, the Island Garden City of Samal, offers it all, with breathtaking island sun, sand, and sea. For this tour, you can rent a boat and equipment from dive shops, then hire a van for the inland attractions.

6:00 AM

We depart from Sta. Ana Wharf via chartered boat to the Angel’s Cove. The cove, located southwest of Samal’s Talikud Island, is roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes away from Davao City. Our first stop is at the 700 sq. m. Wishing Island located just across the white stretch of Pearl Farm beach. Don’t forget to make a wish as you throw a coin to the islet. At the cove, while the sun spreads its tangerine rays over the sky, take a plunge in the island’s irresistible waters.

8:00 AM

Samal is endowed with rare coral gardens that contain 32 coral species in just one colony. The most famous spot is the Coral Garden. With a generally calm current, it also offers an excellent diving adventure for a close encounter with the island’s underwater jewels. To see bigger fish, certified divers can dive at between 40 to 50 meters depth. Large tunas, mackerels and jack fish swarm the area. For beginners, most of the city’s dive centers offer 30 to 45 minutes dive package at P900 to P1000. The package includes short course Dive 101 or Introduction to Scuba Diving, scuba equipment, and a dive master or guide. Underwater, you will be welcomed by a breathtaking sight—a throng of rainbow fish and other sea creatures trooping in and around colorful corals. For a second dive, just add P300 for additional oxygen tank, good for another 30 to 45 minutes underwater adventure.

Pristine Babu Santa in Talikud Island beckons to island hoppers. DEBBIE A. UY

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a day in samal 10:30 AM

Lunch stop is usually at Babu Santa, a pristine white beach near the Coral Garden. Snorkel or swim at the refreshing waters; life vest, snorkel, and mask are usually for free and included in the dive package. You can bring your own food or have the dive center boats bring lunch for you. Most boats have a mini-kitchen where you can cook your own meals. After lunch, prepare for another adventure—inland tour.

1:00 PM

We dock at Kaputian which is approximately 2,500 meters away from the neighboring Talikud Island. From Kaputian, we can get around by taking an inland tour package. Punta del Sol and Paradise Island Resort offer inland tour packages at P2,000 to P2,800 per trip to the island’s inland attractions: Bat Conservation Park, Hagimit Waterfalls, and Moncado Headquarters. The package includes entrance fees, a tour guide, and a shuttle/ van ride with a sitting capacity of 8 to 10 people. If you want a more adventurous tour, we can get around through a motorcycle ride (good for 2 people) at P200. Our first inland destination, the Monfort Bat Cave, houses the world’s largest colony of Geoffroy’s rousette fruit bats with approximately 1.8 to 2 million bats. Not to worry, contrary to common perception, the Monfort bats don’t bite people. At dusk, visitors can enjoy the sight of bats dotting the sky in single file against a red sunset.

3:00 PM

After our ecological tour at the Monfort Bat Cave, we proceed to Hagimit Falls at Brgy. Cawag, less than 2 kilometers from Brgy. Peñaplata proper. At the site, visitors are welcomed by the chirping of crickets that blend in harmony with the sounds of birds and the gushing of water. The area has five cataracts and five natural swimming pools that turn bluish lime green at day. You can dip at the pool while enjoying the music of nature. Accompanied by the rustling of the trees by the wind, the sounds altogether bring a natural orchestra.

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5:00 PM

Before we leave the island, we can take a side-trip to the old Moncado House perched on one of the highest points of Samal. The house was the headquarters of the religious group Filipino Crusaders World Army founded in the 1940s by self-proclaimed general Hilario Moncado. From the attic window, savor a different summer sunset: With the sight of the city

across the blue gulf and Mount Apo looming in the distance, you can be standing there in silence, and be lost somewhere in time.

Clockwise from top left: Among Samal’s many underwater sights, a posse of clown fish and healthy corals; The marine sanctuary that is Coral Garden is a favorite of snorkelers and divers; fruit bats in the underground Monfort Bat Cave; cascading waters of Hagimit Falls. UNDERWATER PHOTO BY BING PEÑA / CORAL GARDEN BY DAU / HAGIMIT AND BAT CAVE BY JANE SARDOMA

Island Hopping/ Scuba Diving: Arrange for boat rentals and diving/island hopping package with dive centers and

resorts. Coral Garden / Babu Santa Beach / Angel Cove island hopping/ scuba diving package starts at P6,500 inclusive of 5 sets of masks and snorkels. Point of origin is Sta. Ana Wharf. Transport back to Davao City included.

DIVE CENTERS

Inland Tour

Davao Carabao Dive Center (082) 300-1092

Punta del Sol (082) 221-2121 / 305-3838 Packages start at P2,000 per group

Punta del Sol (084) 301-4018 Davao City Booking Office: (082) 221-2121

Paradise Island Beach Resort (082) 223-0251 Packages start at P2,800 per group

Wind and Wave 63 082 305-DIVE (3483) 63 082 300-DIVE (3483) gosouth

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Davao City loves the

nightlife Alive with partygoers who troop to live performance venues, clubs, or videoke bars, nightlife in Davao City is a diverse blend of the hip, cosmopolitan, bohemian, and wholesome. JANE SARDOMA reveals the city’s most happening nightspots. Photos by KENTH O’BAJO

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ome avenues in downtown Davao might seem unassuming at day. But don’t be fooled. A few years ago, nightlife in the city meant strolling at Magsaysay Park at the old Sta. Ana pier where local artists performed songs by Frank Sinatra or The Beatles. Some took walks by the nearby beach, while others played chess on the park’s benches, or just enjoyed watching the moon and the stars. Now, nightlife has become more vibrant with bars clustered in entertainment avenues. Latest records at the Davao City Investment and Promotion Center show the city now has more than 60 entertainment establishments, including those located in hotels.

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A dash of art and culture

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ancing and singing, indigenous music and instruments, and elaborate costumes often describe nights at the Taboan in Matina Town Square, one of the city’s frequented nightspots in Matina district. This is where you go when you want local music, jazz, and reggae.

Meanwhile, visitors at the Square can enjoy dining al fresco, go to videoke bars, browse through shops, and play billiards. Or they can hang out in cafes like BluGre, popular for its durian Gatchpuccino and Larcepuccino coffee, pastas and cakes.

At Taboan, guests can also be among the performers rather than just spectators. Cultural performers on Tuesdays and Thursdays usually lure guests to join the throng and learn Mindanaoan dance steps.

The Square has several bars to choose from. Kanto Bar, which can be a venue for meetings, offers jazz music, while Whistletop Bar and Billiards offers billiards and beer. For those who prefer to eat heartily, Impit-Purok Restaurant offers a delicious buffet dinner for P98.

SOUTHERN SOUNDS. The Kalumon Performing Ensemble showcases Mindanawon music and arts through songs and dances at the Taboan, Matina Town Square, using native musical instruments like the kulintang (set of gongs) and higalong (tribal guitar). gosouth 21

Live bands and disco

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eary of sleepy, quiet conversations at restaurants? Let the night fade away with loud music, live bands or dancing with party lovers. At The Venue, located along Quirino Avenue beside the Central Bank complex, the night is dazzling—with colorful lights flashing in time to the booming music. The Venue is a restaurant-cum-bar famous for showcasing popular singers, bands, and comedians from Manila. With a floor area of 1,800 square meters and a sitting capacity of 2,900, the Venue also hosts corporate parties, fashion shows, national and international billiard competitions, and other special occasions. Outside are more restaurants and bars where one can enjoy a meal with live music, usually the latest pop and R&B songs.

Clockwise from top: Davao’s own Jay Durias of South Border fills The Venue with fans at his latest concert; reggae fans, Bob Marley-lookalikes, and popular local artists Popong Landero and Waway Saway of Bukidnon party at Matina Town Square’s Taboan.

House music

I The young and hip chill out to house music at Urban Club.

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f you feel young at heart and want to chill out, go to Urban Club at the Wheels N’ More compound at J.P. Laurel Avenue. At day, the compound looks sedate, hosting a high-end garage and automobile service center and health and wellness shops. But the complex comes to life at night, especially with Urban Club as the latest place to be in. This is where college students and yuppies go for fancy drinks and house music.

Make your own entertainment and be the star of the videoke club.

Sing a tune

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ilipinos are natural singers, and Davao City does not lack for videoke clubs. Videoke can be enjoyed in two ways. If you wish to get praises for your outstanding videoke performance, go to public videoke bars along the city’s streets. Be forewarned: you might as well find yourself later granting your spectators’ song requests. But if you and your friends think you are really out of tune tonight but still wish to sing, take your pick from the wide options of exclusive videoke bars priced at P100-150/hour along Torres or Rizal Streets. Recreo and K1 KTV are among the most visited at Torres Street, and Cats and Dogs and Gimik at Rizal Street. There’s also World Palace KTV in Ecoland, with themed rooms to suit your taste.

A growing number of coffee shops promote cafe culture in Davao City

In the videoke room, sing and feel like Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, Bob Marley, the Beatles, or Mariah Carey. After all, with only you and your friends around, you can still glitter and be the star of the night.

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Behold

Compostela ValleY By DEBBIE UY Photos by JEROME TAMBAOAN and DEBBIE UY

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Inside the rough and rugged terrain of Southeastern Mindanao hides a province of nature unspoiled: 4,666.93 sq. km. of lush forests, gushing waterfalls, foggy mornings, and rich mineral deposits. Welcome to Compostela Valley.

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Previous pages: Left page, clockwise from top left: The tiny Mt. Angelo volcano is the source of hot spring waters in Nabunturan; Comval’s famous product, gold, before and after processing; the Davao Gulf has many wonders, if you know where to look; Ms. Talindag Solatorio Duag and her siblings make the famous sweet delicacies of Bibingka City in Nabunturan; a playful pose under the hot summer sun in Andap Resort, New Bataan; a group of friends find a new way to fish in Lake Leonard, Maco. Right page: The bright costumes of the Mansakas color the scene at Tagbibinta Falls in Maragusan, where the tribe lives. At right: Smoke from hot waters running in discolored ground create an otherworldly look to the Mt. Angelo area behind the Bukal Elementary School

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ore than two decades since a Mandaya stumbled on a big golden find in Mt. Diwalwal and spurred a gold rush, Compostela Valley is laying out the welcome mat to a different kind of adventurer, one looking to go off the beaten track and into the new, if sometimes unpaved, path. ComVal, a young province at 10 years old, is a promising eco-adventure tourism destination that already boasts of a famous visitor. Midlast year, Hollywood actor Josh Hartnett filmed scenes of his movie in the mining site of Mt. Diwalwal. In March this year, the province celebrated the first Bulawan (Gold) Festival, part of its efforts to promote it as the Jewelry Capital of the Philippines. But there’s more to ComVal than just gold. Its 11 municipalities are rich in natural attractions, from the coastal towns of Maco, Mabini and Pantukan to the soaring green mountains of Maragusan and New Bataan. Driving into the heart of ComVal, the view is of thick and sometimes foggy mountains, steep ravines, verdant farmlands, and small waterfalls by the road to the tune of chirping crickets. Cars are a rare sight; the ones benefiting from wide concrete roads are the occasional motorcycles, jeepneys, and buses. Like its people, ComVal 26

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may look laidback, but step inside and you’ll find a rough, unpolished quality that seems to dare, “Conquer me if you can.” “Conquering Compostela Valley” is in fact their tourism tagline. The reasons are clear. ComVal is not for those seeking five-star travel luxuries; as an eco-adventure destination, emphasis is on adventure, and the journey can occasionally be through rough roads. But at the end of an extensive tour, through steep slopes, winding roads, and deep forests, the traveler knows the opposite to be true. Like climbing mountains, you don’t conquer Compostela Valley; you cooperate with it, and only then will it allow you to conquer it, proud and unbowed.

For tours and inquiries, contact the Provincial Tourism Office, Office of the Governor, Compostela Valley, tel. no. (084) 376-0140. Getting there: From Davao City, the capital of Nabunturan is 90 kilometers or a two-hour ride by bus or car. All trips to any destination begin in the capital town. From there, different buses, single motorcycles, and passenger jeepneys will take you to any destination in the province at pre-arranged fare rates.

Nabunturan Nabunturan

Top: Sulfuric falls in Toyozu Inland Resort Bottom: Toyozu Inland Resort is popular for its hot pools

C

omVal’s capital Nabunturan is 90 kilometers or a twohour drive away from Davao City. The most popular destination here is Toyuzo Inland Resort, with natural sauna inside tunnels and small Japanese-style pools filled with hot spring water. You can control the temperature by putting or removing stones over tiny water passages, or adding cold water to the pool. The hot spring water in Nabunturan comes from the tiny volcano of Mt. Angelo at the back

of Bukal Elementary School. The volcano’s peak, less than five feet today, is still growing. To visit the area today is to see an almost otherworldly scene: steaming water running over green or orange ground, discolored by sulfur, and surrounded by vegetation still. For those who want their water cold, Rebucas Resort has cold spring water pools for children and adults. Before leaving Nabunturan, make sure to eat their famous bibingka, baked glutinous rice with coconut milk. Five siblings of the Solatorio family own the line of stalls famously called Bibingka City. At P10 for two pieces, the hot bibingka is a perfect breakfast, snack, or pasalubong.

Toyozu Inland Resort. Entrance: P40. Picnic cottages: P100-P500 (with private pool). Overnight cottages: P750 (for 4 persons/room), P1,500 (family rooms for 15). Reservations: (082) 221-6771 Rebucas Cold Spring. Entrance: P20. Cottages: P75 Comval Hotel & Restaurant. Rooms: P650 (for two) to P1,500 (for five). Also has massage and spa services from P150 to P400 gosouth

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mabini and pantukan A Mabini and Pantukan

Huts of Umandak Beach Resort dot the Mabini coastline.

long the Davao Gulf are the coastal towns of Mabini and Pantukan, nearer to Tagum City in Davao del Norte and Mati in Davao Oriental. Many resorts dot the coast, making Mabini and Pantukan the beach and resort centers of Comval. Mabini has the white-sand Kopiat Island. The island is private, but you can go boating around it, snorkeling, or diving. If the water is clear and the wind is mild, you’ll see the corals from your boat. Another famous island, Lunod, is almost covered by lush mangrove forests. The 17-hectare island, also called St. Anthony’s, can be reached 15 minutes via motorized banca from Mabini coast. Its coral gardens and rich marine life have made it an ecotourism park.

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For boat tours, book boats from resorts. Boating rate: P20 per person for a minimum of 10, or P500/hour. Kopiat and Lunod Islands. Reservations: 0917-5485939. Umandak Beach Resort, Mabini. Entrance: P50. Manaklay Beach Park & Resort, Mabini. Entrance: P10. Cottages: P100 to 300. Overnight rooms at from P750 to P1,200. Reservations: (084) 217-3996 / 0917-480-4937 Bern Berioso Beach Resort, Mabini. Entrance: P10. Open cottages from P200 to P1,000. Closed cottages: P500 to P1,200. Reservations: 0919-8711218 Magnaga Waters Beach Resort, Pantukan. Entrance: P10. Cottages: P300-P400. Overnight rooms from P250 to P350 per person (non-aircon) to P1,000P2,300 per room (aircon). Reservations: (084) 2181216. Welborn’s Beach Resort, Pantukan. Free entrance. Open cottages from P200 to P1,500. Overnight rooms from P650 to P2,000. Reservations: 0926-9814197 Via Veritas Et Vita Seminar House, Lanipao, Pantukan. 12-room furnished farm house for seminars and retreats for 50-100 persons. Overnight with meals: P500-P650 per person. Reservations: Diocese of Tagum Office (084) 218-1402

n pantukan

Maco M

Natural hot shower everyday at the Mainit Hot Springs. Bottom: Lake Leonard mirrors lush mountains and heavy clouds.

Maco

aco, an hour away from Nabunturan, is worth a visit for two reasons: the Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring and Lake Leonard.

The Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring is a natural hot spring. From high rocky ledges drip steaming water, about 350C, perfect for soothing aching muscles.

Mainit Sulfuric Hot Spring. Entrance: P5. Cottages: P30. Overnight cottage: P300 for about 10.

In New Leyte, Maco, an hour’s drive away from Mainit, sits Lake Leonard. The 203-diameter-wide Lake Leonard is the caldera lake formed from the crater of the active volcano Leonard Kniaseff. Despite the presence of a mining village above it, the lake has managed to host healthy tilapia fish.

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MaRAGUSAN Maragusan

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t an altitude of 2,099 feet, cool Maragusan is considered the “Summer Capital of Davao.” Eighty three kilometers from Nabunturan, Maragusan boasts of lush forests, 30 waterfalls, and exotic flora. Wild orchids are common decorations outside houses. Between September and October, locals and tourists await the blooming of the world’s largest flower, the rafflesia. The two most famous falls in the area are the 13-tier Marangig Falls and the seven-tier Tagbibinta, both part of the Maragusan Tour Package. Other swimming areas: the Aguacan Inland Resort for cold springs, and the Kanlawig Hot Springs.

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The best place to view Maragusan is from the highland resort of Haven’s Peak. You’ll need to climb 198 steps to get to the cottages and the restaurant area. If the skies are clear, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of the mountain ranges of Mt. Tagub, Mt. Manurigao, and Mt. Candalaga.

Counterclockwise from right: Early morning view of Maragusan from Haven’s Peak; A tribal hut-inspired cottage at Haven’s Peak; Swim with Japanese koi at Aguacan Cold Spring Resort; Constantino Monical and cousin Avelina Pacio from the Mansaka tribe, one of the major indigenous people groups in ComVal. Other IPs are the the Mandaya, Manguangan, Dibabawon, Kalagan, and Ata/Manobo; Beads and bells of a belt and a hand-woven cloth show the colors of the Mansakas

Marangig Falls. Entrance: P5. Picnic cottages: P100 Tagbibinta Falls. Entrance: P5. Cottages: P100 Aguacan Cold Spring Resort. Entrance: P20. Picnic huts: P40P300. Cottages: P350-P1,500 Kanlawig Hot Springs. Entrance: P25. Cottages: P100 to P500. Overnight: P75/head Haven’s Peak. Entrance: P10 Dormitory rooms for P350/ person. Tribal huts at P1,400 for 2-3 persons. Tents with beddings for P250 to P750. Reservations: 0918-432-8865. http://www.havenspeak.com

new bataan New Bataan

N

ew Bataan, 40 kilometers from the capital, is home of the White Peak of Mt. Tagub, the highest point of the ComVal mountain range. White Peak is famous for its rare flora and fauna, bonsai trees, and mossy virgin forest.

Those seeking water adventures can visit Malumagpak Falls or take the river-trekking challenge at Calamocan Brooks. Two of New Bataan’s inland resorts, Andap and Bamboo Garden, have swimming pools filled with cold natural spring water. A short walk further leads to the river itself. White Peak. Climbing registration fee: P75 (inclusive of kits) Porter guide fee: P150-P500. Reservations: 0921-583-0244/ 0920-222-6147 Calamocan Brooks. River trekking challenge. Entrance: P10. Guide fee: P100-P150. Reservations: 0920-222-6147 or 0920216-6110 Andap Inland Resort. Entrance: P20. Cottages: P75-P1,000. Reservations: 0910-430-5531 Bamboo Garden Resort. Entrance: P20. Cottages: P100 to P300. Overnight cottages: P2,000 to P3,000 for about six persons

Top: Fog envelopes a mountain surrounding the Liboton Deck Above: Summer is the best reason to get wet in the pools of cold spring water at Bamboo Garden. gosouth

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shopping bag

All that

glitters Text AND PhotoS by DEBBIE UY

Necklace P1,200

A

s the haven of gold and ore deposits in the country, it’s but natural for Compostela Valley to aim to be the Jewelry Capital of the Philippines and become the country’s major provider of fine jewelry.

taught social skills such as gender sensitivity, work ethics, personal values, and leadership. Most importantly, financial assistance is provided to qualified graduates to start their own jewelry enterprise.

That’s why on January 2008, the local government of Monkayo established the three-year Municipal Jewelry Making Skills Training Center cum Enterprise. The goal is to formalize training and upgrading of skills of local craftsmen and encourage fine jewelry enterprising. By 2010, the program would have established a jewelry enterprise growth center in Monkayo with 100 trainees and cooperators.

The first beneficiaries of the program were differently-abled men. “They can no longer use their legs, but their hands are very much useful,” says jewelry trainor Deves Ycot.

Three-month basic and advanced skills training on jewelry making are conducted, along with financial and entrepreneurial management skills. Participants are also

The proudly locally-made silver pieces in this page were sold for the first time during Compostela Valley’s Bulawan Festival trade fair last March. All jewelry can be bought at the Municipal Jewelry Making Skills Training Center / Enterprise at the ABC Hall Building in Monkayo, Comval. Contact Joan C. Pintal at mobile number +63906-535-7172 or +63910642-1576.

Silver ring P325 Chain necklace 103.2g silver P7,746

Silver bracelet 33.5g silver P2,512.50

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Bracelet 9.8 g silver P735

Chain bracelet 18.5g silver P1,387.50 Charm bracelet 9.5g silver P712.50

MT. HAMIGUITAN

Gulliver’s Paradise TEXT By NEELA G. DUALLO PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVAO ORIENTAL TOURISM OFFICE

From top: Mt. Hamiguitan with its myriad flora and fauna is a nature lover’s dream; the Philippine trogon; the famous bonsai or pygmy forest

I

f an ordinary man could have a paradise where he can stand tall and proud, it would be in the middle of the Pygmy Forest of Mt. Hamiguitan. The mountain is home to centuryold and sturdy small bonsai plants, which spread to almost a thousand hectares and stand from one foot to five feet tall. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that the bonsaifilled mountain stands over San Isidro, the smallest municipality of Davao Oriental. The people of San Isidro know that Mt. Hamiguitan is their biggest lure to tourists, and locals are making moves to protect and preserve the area. Towering at 5,345 feet over Brgy. La Union, Mt. Hamiguitan takes six to seven hours to climb. But the persistent climber will be rewarded with the sight of 16 tree species, exotic birds and animals, and if you’re lucky, the world-famous Philippine Eagle. gosouth

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Other attractions: along the slope of Mt. Hamiguitan sits the mysterious Tinagong Dagat (Hidden) lake. Above the mountain’s peak, the distant blue waters of Pujada Bay and the Pacific Ocean glitter. In the middle of the jungle that is Mt. Hamiguitan, standing tall above a pygmy forest of bonsais that look like a huge vegetable garden, you would feel very much like Gulliver.

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From top: Mountain climbers rest by the Tinagong Dagat (Hidden Lake); the Philippine scops owl, From top:pit Mountain climbers rest by the Tinaviper, a rough-backed forest frog, gong (Hidden Lake); Philippine andDagat a black crowned bluethe monarch are scops some owl, pit viper, rough-backed frog, and a of thealittle residents offorest Mt. Hamiguitan black crowned blue monarch are some of the little residents of Mt. Hamiguitan gosouth

Shooting through rapids Home to one of the clearest rivers in the country, Sta. Cruz in Davao del Sur comes up with an adventure package of a natural rollercoaster ride. By JANE SARDOMA

T

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVAO DEL SUR TOURISM OFFICE

he quaint little town of Sta.Cruz has its way of rejuvenating one’s passion for a quest. In its Sibulan River awaits an adventure: a wet exhilarating ride through strong currents and rapids— with only a round rubber tube device.

Compared with the popular white water rafting, water tubing at Sibulan is wobblier with only one rider per tube and strong river currents. The shape of the tube device also lets the rapids twist and turn the rider, giving him the sensation of a roller coaster ride – but with natural sounds and green surroundings.

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A wild water adventure not for the weak-kneed

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Getting there: If you don’t have a car, take the jeepney or bus going to Sta. Cruz or Digos City. The ride to Sibulan Crossing at Brgy. Darong is approximately 1 hour from downtown Davao City. From the Sibulan Crossing, take the motorcycle ride (at P15) on a 100-meter bumpy road to the tubing area. You’ll know you’re in the right place if you see a copra processing area. Gears: To guarantee safety of tourists who want to try river tubing, tubing safety gears like life vest (at P75) and tubing equipment (at P25) are available at the Sta. Cruz Tourism Office.

The base camp of the whitewater tubing adventure is at the river’s downstream area in Brgy. Darong, in the midst of the 700-hectare coconut compound owned by the Ayala Agri-Development Corporation. From there, start the adventure with a brave heart. There are three tubing levels of adventure. If expert, one can start with the highest elevation of the river down to the first level. Level 1 plus a river guide (service at P200) is advised for beginners. While shooting through and grueling with the rapids, one gets wet with the river’s relaxing splash that comes from Mt. Apo. Always look ahead and be prepared, for the tube occasionally bumps into rocks. During the rainy season, the sport is more thrilling with the wilder gush of water. But when toppled, don’t worry; the river is not deep. Passing by trees of chirping birds, water tubing is also an activity that gives room for the adventurous soul to be one with nature.

my davao

Dawn finds a home in Davao T

o the only person in Philippine movie history to bag two acting awards in an awards night (Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress in the 1991 FAMAS Awards), Davao means beauty, family, and home. At 37, actress Dawn Zulueta still has the face that can launch a thousand ships. But the true Dawn does not have a beauty that is only physical. Her current “Beauty Inside” campaign for a beauty product shows the real Dawn that is beautiful within. One of her secrets? Her “worthwhile endeavors” in the place she calls home—Davao. After marrying businessman and now Davao del Norte congressman Anton Lagdameo, Dawn settled in Davao City in 1999. From a controversial life in show business, Dawn transformed herself into a happy housewife and a proud mother to two-year-old Jacobo. When her husband entered politics last year, Dawn found worthwhile undertakings other than taking care of her family. Today, as a congressional spouse, she is involved in various community programs and supports many advocacies. She also helps raise funds

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for I Can Serve, a foundation that seeks to inform women about breast cancer, and helps patients in the Davao Regional Hospital Burn Unit. A bookworm, Dawn also donates educational textbooks to needy children through charity programs like Tulong Aral sa Kabataan.

was just the kind of ‘slowing down’ that I was needing and searching for. And Davao, along with its warm people, made that change so effortless.

GS: If you were to shoot a movie or TV series again

in the region, where would it be and why?

Despite her community and show business activities, Dawn describes her lifestyle as mostly domestic. “Believe me, I’m totally not the celebrity I look like,” she was quoted in a recent interview. “I’m really just a housewife. That’s my first and foremost job.”

DZ: I would love to explore and feature the beautiful Mati in Davao Oriental. I have visited that region several times and the coastal view is breathtaking. Another place I find just as enchanting is the province of Bukidnon. Actually, the whole drive towards that area alone is such “I found the idyllic life so GOSOUTH: Tell us about a wonderful visual your first visit to the experience. The road perfect for me, it was just Davao region. trek allows you a full the kind of ‘slowing down’ view of the mountain DAWN ZULUETA: My first ranges of Mindanao, but that I was needing and visit to Davao City was more towards the center searching for.” back in either 1991 of the region. The rich or 1992. I and several vegetation and soil is so other celebrities were inspiring to see. When invited to compete in a pistol firing competition. one has lived all her life in the busy, polluted I only stayed for a weekend and didn’t get to cities, being around unspoiled and almost virginal see as much of the city – until my next trip the territory is a treat for the senses. following year when I came to shoot the television series Davao, which was aired in Channel 9. GS: What do you love about Davao? The location was at the Hijo plantation in Davao del Norte. We filmed there for a whole month. DZ: Its climate, its people, and its effective It was during this time that I was able to see governance that translates to, amongst other and experience the region and its very warm, things, peace and order. hospitable people. It was such a memorable stay that I promised I would return again GS: What pasalubong do you usually bring from GS: When you moved here after marriage, how was it adjusting to a provincial, low-profile life?

DZ: I moved to Davao in the end of 1999. By then, I had made several more trips prior to it and was able to see and do more, as well as make new acquaintances. By the time my husband and I relocated to the city, it was quite easy for me to adjust because I had friends who taught me how to get around and find places to shop, do the grocery, etc. At the neighborhood where we resided, I built a close sisterly unit. I made more connections with relatives of my husband’s family and even went into small businesses, like organizing Christmas bazaars at the downtown area. I found the idyllic life so perfect for me, it 38

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Davao to relatives and friends outside?

DZ: Mostly fruits of the season, like pomelos, pineapples, atis, mangosteens and durian. Other delicacies like paco (fern) salad and durian pastillas. Other favorites are batik fabrics and woven items, also malongs. GS: What are your favorite places in the region and Mindanao? DZ: The beaches of Samal Island, Mati in Davao Oriental, Panabo and the municipalities of Davao del Norte, Catigan and Toril of Davao City and Bukidnon... so far. Because I have yet to see the rest of the region and I am sure to appreciate so much more as I go in the future.

TRANSPORTATION SCHEDULE

LAND

Rural Transit of Mindanao

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

Davao City – Sasa

Mon 9:00 pm

Mon 12:45 pm

Supeferry 2::9

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

General Santos – Makar

Yellow Bus Lines

Time of Interval

Aircon

24 hrs

Superferry 12

Km 2 McArthur Highway, Davao City +63 (82) 298-0045 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 Metro Shuttle

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

Vessel

Port of Origin

Port of Destination

Departure Day / Time

Arrival Day / Time

Manila

Sun 2:00 pm

Wed 11:00 am

Davao–Mati

4 am

Every 30 min

Aircon

5:00 pm

Davao–Mati

4 am

Every 30 min

Non-aircon

8:00 pm

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

First Trip

Time of Interval

Class

Last Trip

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

Davao City

Filipina Princess

Surigao

Davao City

Mon 9:00 pm

Tues 4:00 pm

Filipina Princess

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

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 39 gosouth

AIR DOMESTIC FLIGHTS Flights to and from Davao International Airport

MANILA Philippine Airlines ETD

ETA

Frequency

Flight

Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

2P 025

Davao

Cebu

11:40 am

12:35 pm

Daily

Frequency

2P 027

Davao

Cebu

4:15 pm

5:10 pm

Daily

2P 026

Cebu

Davao

9:55 am

10:50 pm

Daily

2P 024

Cebu

Davao

5:40 pm

6:35 pm

Daily

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

ETD

ETA

Frequency

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

Air Philippines

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

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

7:25 pm

9:10 pm

Air Philippines Flight

Origin

Destination

2P 926

Davao

Manila

ETD

ETA

9:40 am

11:20 am

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

Destination

Davao

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

Air Philippines

Origin

Manila

Frequency

Philippine Airlines

BACOLOD

Flight

5J-967

Airlines Contact Numbers

Air Philippines

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 Flight

Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

2P 027 via Cebu

Davao

2P 021 via Cebu

Iloilo

Frequency

Iloilo

11:40 am

1:50 pm

Daily

Davao

8:35 am

10:50 am

Daily

SilkAir

Cebu Pacific (effective May 8, 2008)

Frequency

ZAMBOANGA

Daily

Cebu Pacific

ETD

ETA

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

Frequency

Merpati Nussan Tara Airlines

2P 928

Davao

Manila

7:15 pm

8:55 pm

Daily

Flight

Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

2P 925

Manila

Davao

7:30

9:10 am

Daily

5J-393

Davao

Zamboanga

9:10 am

10:05 am

M-W-Sa-Su

2P 927

Manila

Davao

2:00 pm

3:40 pm

Daily

5J-394

Zamboanga

Davao

7:45 am

8:40 am

M-W-Sa-Su

ETD

ETA

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 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

Davao

Singapore

3:15 pm

6:55 pm

M-T-Th-Sa

Daily

5J-595

Cebu

Davao

10:10 am

11:05 am

Daily

Davao (via Cebu)

Singapore

1:35 pm

6:55 pm

W-F-Su

Daily

5J-597

Cebu

Davao

4:30 pm

5:25 pm

M-T-W-F

Singapore

Davao (via Cebu)

9:05 am

2:35 pm

M-T-Th-Sa

Daily

5J-599

Cebu

Davao

7:30 pm

8:25 pm

Th-Su

Singapore

Davao

9:05 am

12:55 pm

W-F-Su

Daily

40

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Frequency

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

Flight

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

Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Frequency

Directory

Cebu Pacific Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Frequency

5J-715

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

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

HONG KONG

Cebu Pacific Origin

Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Frequency

5J-724

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

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 Destination

ETD

ETA

Frequency

Davao

Manado

4:15 pm

5:30 pm

Mondays

Manado

Davao

2:00 pm

3:15 pm

Mondays

TAIPEI 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

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

Regency Inn Villa Abrille Street (082) 225-5819, 227-4333 [email protected] Villa Margarita Hotel J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-5674 , 226-2968

First Class * The Marco Polo Hotel C.M. Recto St. (082) 221-0888, 225-0111 www.marcopolohotels. com

Tourist Inn Alicia Mansion L. Guerrero St. (082) 224-2001 to 02

* The Apo View J. Camus cor. Palma Gil St. (082) 221-6430, 221-0748, www.apoview.com

* Waterfront Insular Hotel Lanang (082) 233-2881 to 87 www.waterfronthotels.net Standard Microtel Inns and Suites Damosa Gateway Complex, Mamay Road (082) 233-2333, 300-3800 www.microtelphilippines. com

CONSULATES

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

HOTELS

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

Cebu Pacific (starting May 8, 2008)

Consular Office of Japan

Davao City

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

Merpati Nussan Tara Airlines Origin

*Accredited by the Department of Tourism

Casa Leticia J. Camus Street (082) 224-0501 www.casaleticia.com Chateau del Mar C. Lizada Road, Lanang (082) 234-3472, 305-8998 Evergreen Hotel R. Magsaysay Ave. (082) 221-3860 Grand Men Seng Hotel A. Pichon St. (082) 221-9040, 221-2431 www.menseng.com.ph Hotel Galleria Gov. Duterte St. (082) 221-2480, 221-2657, 221-2693 [email protected]

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 Humberto’s Hotel 311 Jose Palma Gil Corner Padre Gomez Sts. (082) 222-3831, 222-4105 www.humbertoshotel.com Marbella Mansion Rizal St. (082) 222-0890 to 97 Midland Inn Iñigo St. (082) 221-1775 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 gosouth

41

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 Hotel Elena Avenida Santos Ave. (082) 233-1941, 233-1122 Sychar Garden Hotel J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 224-0603 Alta Pension House J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-1843 Elle’s Pension House Mt. Apo St. (082) 221-8499, 221-2637 Manor Hotel A. Pichon St. (082) 221-2511, 221-2514 Emerald Inn J. Camus Ext. (082) 225-4825, 221-1641 Ponce Suites Doña Vicenta Village (082) 227-9070 to 71 Legazpi Inn Pelayo St. (082) 226-3842 Apartelle Linmarr Apartelle Lakandula St., Agdao (082) 221-2915, 221-5748

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Crown Regency Hotel J.P. Cabaguio Ave. (082) 225-8188, 225-8088 www.crownregency.com Jogues Apartelle 509 Mangga St. Juna Subd., Matina (082) 297-4683 www.joguesapartelle.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 Cogot Seafood Restaurant F. Iñigo St. / The Venue Compound (082) 224-1299 Colasas Barbeque A. Pichon St/ Magallanes St. (082) 224-0098 Cynthia’s Lechon House & Restaurant Victoria Plaza Carpark / Bo. Pampanga (082) 224-2202/ 221-6238 Dencio’s sa Hilltop Diversion Road, Maa (082) 305-8653 Dencio’s Kamayan Bonifacio St. (082) 224-3101 SM City (082) 297-1868 NCCC Mall (082) 298-4889 Fiesta Dabaw Native Restaurant Gaisano South/ SM City (082) 224-0006/ 224-5858 Japanese Tunnel Restaurant Balusog – Matina, Diversion Road (082) 221-5690/ 221-2250

Gerry’s Grill Gaisano Mall Davao (082) 221-9992 / 224-3779

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

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

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

Golden Brown Restaurant Duterte St. (082) 224-1640 Habagat Grill Times Beach, Matina (082) 298-0697 * Harana F. Torres St (082) 227-3937 / 221-5615 Jack’s Ridge Restaurant Shrine Hills, Matina (082) 297-8830 Jaltan Food Centrum A. Pichon St. / C.M. Recto-Bonifacio (082) 227-3477/ 227-7246 Kusina Dabaw San Pedro St. (082) 226-4103 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

Lotus Court Marco Polo Hotel CM Recto Ave. (082) 221-0888 Men Seng Restaurant A. Pichon St. (082) 227-4775, 227-8937

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

* Mongolian Garden F. Torres St. 221-9026

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

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

Yahong F. Torres St. Yellow Fin Restaurant Sandawa Plaza, Quimpo Blvd. (082) 221-0958/ 227-7778 Oriental * Ahfat Seafood Plaza I and II Victoria Plaza Carpark (082) 228- 5787 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 Dencia’s Restaurant Gen. Luna Street (082) 227-6777, 221-0887 Davao Famous Restaurant Gen. Luna St. (082) 227-1972, 227-2633

Rai Rai Ken 2F SM City / Prime Square Compound, F. Torres St. (082) 297-2151 Red Moon Chinese Cuisine K1 Complex, F. Torres St. (082) 221-3988 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 Tong Yang Hot Pot Chimes Specialty Store, Sales St. Tsuru Japanese Restaurant J. Camus St. (082) 221-0901 Zakoya Japanese Buffet F. Torres St. (082) 227-7760 Continental Bigby’s Café & Restaurant G/F SM City (082) 298-0168 / 298-0111

* Nanay Bebeng Restaurant Marfori Heights/ SM City (082) 222-3201/ 297-5801

Dimsum Diner Gaisano Mall/ Guerrero St./ Ilustre St. (082) 221-737, 221-7321

Paterno’s Restaurant Roxas Ave. (082) 222-4684

Hanoi Vietnamese Restaurant J. Camus St. / Damosa (082) 225-4501

Penong’s Barbecue Ilustre St. (082) 227-8363

Korean Restaurant Lanang

Café Ilustrado 3rd level, Gaisano South, Ilustre St. (082) 224-0808

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

Café Marco Marco Polo Davao (082) 221-0888

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

Chippens Paseo de Roxas Arcade (082) 225-4998, 225-8264

Probinsya Restaurant Victoria Plaza Carpark (082) 225-1455 Ranchero Grill Tionko Avenue (082) 225-1199

* Bistro Rosario F. Torres St. (082) 224-0808 / 221-9026

Coco’s South Bistro F. Torres St (082) 222-3494 to 96 Entrée Apo View Hotel (082) 221-6430 Garden Oases Restaurant Porras St., Sta. Ana (082) 224-1402 to 03 Kamayo Café The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Palma Gil St. (082) 225-8912 Montemarte Café Grand Regal Hotel, Lanang (082) 235-0888/ 234-3918 La Parilla Waterfront Insular Hotel, Lanang (082) 233-2821 Pancake House SM City / Gaisano Mall (082) 299-2668, 227-7385 * Sarung Banggi Steak house F. Torres St. (082) 227-3937, 221-5615 European Café Mediterranean Chimes Specialty Store, Sales St. (082) 225-8997 * Claude’s Le Café de Ville Rizal St. (082) 305-2635, 222-4287 De Bonte Koe Dutch Restaurant Habana Compound, Rizal St. (082) 222-7585

Turquoise Festival Turkish Restaurant G/F SM City (082) 282-0168

Rizal Street Café & Bar Rizal Promenade 183 Rizal St. (082) 225-1852/ 221-4839

Swiss Deli J.P. Laurel St. (082) 234-0271

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

COFFEE SHOPS

Pirata Bar Waterfront Insular Hotel (082) 233-2881

Basti’s Brew Victoria Plaza (082) 222-6168 BluGre Coffee Shop Landco Bldg, J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-4667 Bo’s Coffee Shop Metro Lifestyle Complex, F. Torres St. (082) 228-6180 Coffee Dream G/F SM City / Damosa (082) 282-0204 Coffee Monster Café Ilustre St. (082) 224-6699 Fagioli J.P. Laurel Ave. 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

* Hagar’s Place Blucor Bldg., Lanang (082) 233-1018, 234-3028

After Dark Bar & Restaurant Quimpo Blvd. (082) 298-0299

Hola España Damosa Gateway, Lanang (082) 234-6877

Club 10 Jazz Bar Apo View Hotel (082) 221-6430

La Toscana Italian Bar & Restaurant R. Dacudao Bldg, Quirino Ave. (082) 305-6556

Halo The Venue Compound (082) 227-0579

O’Flannagan’s Ilustre St. (082) 300-1850 * Picobello Italian Restaurant 5/F Gaisano South, Ilustre St. (082) 221-1696

Urban Club Wheels N More compound, J.P. Laurel Ave. Visa Restaurant Piano Bar & Karaoke Victoria Plaza Carpark (082) 225-1748 World Palace KTV Quimpo Blvd. (082) 297-4189 HEALTH & WELLNESS * Asmara Spa Services Grand Regal Hotel (082) 221-8445, 234-4448 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 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

Eagle’s Bar The Marco Polo Hotel C.M. Recto St. (082) 221-0888

Golf Apo Golf and Country Club Dumoy, Toril (082) 297-2150. 297-2036

K1 KTV F. Torres St. (082) 227-6081

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

Kanto Bar Matina Town Square (082) 297-7010

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

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

Gaisano South Citimall Ilustre St. (082) 222-2420

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

CASINO

Water Sports Facilities * Carabao Dive Shop Sobrecarey St. Obrero cor. Alzate (082) 300-1092 * 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 SHOPPING Aldevinco Arts and Crafts Center C.M. Recto St. Chimes Specialty Store Sales St. (082) 224-1818 Nieva’s Arts and Crafts Felbest Bldg., Lanang (082) 234-6566 / 235-0392 SM City Davao Quimpo Blvd, Ecoland (082) 297-6998

Davao Casino Filipino Grand Regal Hotel (082) 235-0888 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 * Forest Hills Resort Balusog, Matina (082) 221-0318, 221-5693 * 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

Gaisano Mall of Davao J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 221-6168 Victoria Plaza J.P. Laurel Ave. (082) 224-1410 NCCC Mall MacArthur Highway corner Ma-a (082) 298-0888 gosouth

43

Davao del Norte RESORTS Katarina Beach Resort Near the DENR’s mangrove preservation area in Brgy. Busaon, Tagum City Barret Beach Resort A few minutes ride from Apocon Estates Corporation, Brgy. Madaum, Tagum City Elena’s Inland Resort Brgy. Canocotan, Tagum City Gambrille Resort and Restaurant Sto. Tomas Aqua Land Resort San Vicente, Panabo City NATURE PARKS Magical Hidden Spring of Panas New Corella Binancian Waterfalls 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. 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.

mountain waterfalls about 30 feet high. San Miguel Caves Located 18 kilometers from the poblacion of San Miguel, Kapalong Iganong Cave and Spring Iganong , Asuncion Home to the bat species called kabyaw. 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.

Datu Balong Hills Can be reached through 30-minute trek from Datu Balong Barangay Hall, Kapalong.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Matol Falls Can be reached by all types of land vehicles to Barangay Gupitan and 30-minute river crossing and trekking. A break-in

Prime Hotel Rizal St., Tagum City (084) 217-3616

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Molave Hotel 033 Osmeña St., Tagum (084) 217-3983, 297-3803

Valle Lodging House Osmeña St., Tagum City (084) 218-4487

Captain’s Deck Bacaltos Bldg., Mirafuentes Subd., Tagum City (084) 400-3848 Marcelino’s Pension House Quirante St., Tagum City (084) 218-1685 Georgia’s Pension House Dalisay Rd., Sto. Niño., Tagum City (084) 218-3128 Raj Hotel & Restaurant 3609 Mirafuentes St., Tagum City 084-2185515 [email protected] Eagle’s View Hotel & Restaurant Dalisay-Gante Rd., Tagum City 084-2187553, 2185405 evhotel_tagum@yahoo. com 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. Hagimit Falls Brgy. Cawag, Samal Features five cataracts and natural swimming pools. 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.

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

Aundanao Fish Sanctuary Brgy. Aundanao Its rich marine environment makes the area one of the best dive spots in the region.

Monina Garden Resort Babak (082) 301-4068

RESORTS IN ISLAND GARDEN CITY OF SAMAL

RMPC Camudmud, Babak (082) 227-8574

* 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

Pacific Little Secret Talikud (082) 235-1325

TRAVEL AGENCIES * Asianet Travel & Tours Jose Abad Santos St., Magugpo Central, Tagum City (084) 217-3144, 400-2708 asianet_traveltours1@ yahoo.com

* Fernandez Beach Resort Peñaplata 0915-554-9273

* Kingstone Freight & Travel Tagum City Domestic (084)-217-2140 International (084) 2182570

* Isla Reta Beach Resort Talikud (082) 234-0903

* Okey Travel Center Tagum City (084) 400-4436, 400-4491

Island Buenavista Resort Ligid Island (082) 299-1020

L’Viajera Ticketing & Tours 3 Magsaysay Ave. Sto. Tomas (084) 829-0169

* 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

Philippine Airlines Ticketing Office Tagum City (084) 217-3409 RESTAURANTS Annette’s Lechon House Quirante II, Tagum City (084) 217-3593 Antonino’s Ihaw-ihaw Lapu-Lapu Cor. Abad Santos St., Tagum City 084-2187764 [email protected]

Apruv Dine Inn Tagum City (084) 217- 3457 Arman’s Eatery Tagum City (084) 217-3277 Balinsasayaw National Highway Tagum City (084) 218-6492 Chicken Ati-Atihan Lapu-Lapu St ., Tagum City (084) 218-6558 Dencio’s Kamayan National Highway Tagum City (084) 218-5000 Dunkin Donuts Tagum City (084) 218-2284 Eagle’s View Hotel & Restaurant Gante Avenue, Magugpo West, Tagum City (084) 218-5405 Gaisano Center Food Court Tagum City (084) 217-3319 Greenwich NCCC Mall, National Highway, Tagum City (084) 400-3767

(084) 2173607, 2173792, 4001251 [email protected]. ph

Davao Oriental

MC CEL’s Cakes & Catering Services Tagum City (084) 400-1874

HISTORICAL

Magnolia Kiosk Tagum City (084) 217-3209 Makulay Restaurant Pioneer Avenue Tagum City (084) 217-3346 New Tagum Peking Restaurant Tagum City (084) 217-3826 Ning Nang Food Services Tagum City (084) 218-1791 NCCC Food Court NCCC Mall, National Highway, Tagum City (084) 218-4589 Penong’s Lapu-Lapu St ., Tagum City (084) 218-1455 Via Ame Abad Santos St . (084) 400-4577

Hearts Entwined Tagum City (084) 400-1845

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

Helen’s Catering Services Tagum City (084) 218-1668

Randino Tagum City (084) 218-483

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

Taweng’s Abad Santos, Tagum City (084) 400-3588

Jollibee National Highway, Tagum City (084) 218-8888 JS Gaisano Food Court Tagum City (084) 217-3141 Kamalig Apokon Rd., Tagum City (084) 217-3623 Lakan Pakals National HIghway, Visayan Village Tagum City

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. Approximately 60 feet above the shoreline, this cave altar is naturally made of stones. The powdery white sand faces the Pacific Ocean. 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 Provincial Tourism Complex, 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 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 In Lupon, 30-minutes ride from Mati. A hot mineral spring surrounded by woodlands

ACCOMMODATIONS

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.

Provincial Tourism Complex and Annex Menzi Hills, Mati City (087) 388-4013 / 388-4015

Mt. Hamiguitan and Tinagong Dagat Brgy. La Union, San Isidro Mt. Hamiguitan is home to thousands of centuries-old 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.

* Roque’s Pension House Marcos Ave., Mati City (087) 388-3374

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

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.

RESTAURANTS

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.

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

Dahican Beaches 15-minute ride from Mati Cawa-Cawa Pools Brgy. Maputi, San Isidro Can be reached by an hourlong ride on motorcycles from the town proper. Cawa-Cawa natural pool has crystal-clear waters about 15 feet deep, and is surrounded by thick forests and wild rare orchids.

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 Knots Grill Ihaw-Ihaw Limatoc St., Mati City (087) 388-4627 Kapetol Restaurant Capitol Hills, Mati (087) 388-4068 Honey’s Restaurant Matiao, Mati (087) 811-4038, 811-0213, 388-4052

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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 TOURISM OFFICE Provincial Tourism Office Menzi Hills, Mati City (087) 388-4041, 388-4015

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 Leling Beach Located 3 kilometers away from the National Highway in Hagonoy. Kisulad Puting Balas Beach Located 8 kilometers from the poblacion of Sta. Maria. The site has a kilometerlong white, pristine shoreline.

HISTORICAL

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.

Bauing Japanese Tunnels Hagonoy Where distorted and cannibalized weapons believed to be of Japanese origin were found.

Barayong Kamonsilan Resort Magsaysay Nestled in a tropical setting with a stream, lush vegetation and a durian orchard.

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.

Bolinao Beach Resort Brgy. Dawis, Digos City

Davao del Sur

CULTURAL Binaton Bagobo Village Digos City Revel in the ethnic arts and culture of the tribe in this village inhabited by the Bagobos.

Encar Resort 1 kilometer from the poblacion of Magsaysay. Narvasa Kalapaw Swimming Resort Located 4 kilometers from the poblacion of Magsaysay Villa Angelika Garden Resort Brgy. Cabligan, 12 km away from Digos City. NATURE Sibulan River Sta. Cruz. Can by reached by

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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 Water Tubing, the local version of white water rafting. 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. 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. Pasig Island Sta. Cruz, 15 minutes away from poblacion and can be reached by 5-minute ride 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. 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. 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 jumpoff 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. 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. Babatalias Banig Bags Digos Takes pride in their welltrained craftsmen and high-quality banig products for export. Balasinon Oyster Shell Producers Association Sulop Features bottled and processed oyster shells for export and local markets.

San Miguel Brewery National Highway, Darong, Sta. Cruz It is the biggest brewery in Asia. ACCOMMODATIONS

TOURISM-ORIENTED ORGANIZATIONS Provincial Tourism Office Capitol Bldg., Matti Digos City (082) 553-2075, 553-2105, 553-6876

Umandak Beach View Resort Mabini coastline (084) 217-3996 Welborn’s Beach Resort Pantukan 0926-981-4197

Hotel de Crisbelle National Highway Digos City (082) 553-2332, 553-5473

Compostela Valley

NATURAL

A & B Hotel and Café Rizal Ave., Digos City (082) 553-5218

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.

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 Big Taste Chinese Restaurant Digos City (082) 553-6702 Prangel’s Restaurant Digos City (082) 553-2556 Badyner’s Restaurant Poblacion, Sta. Maria 0917-4298708 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

Aguacan Cold Spring Resort Maragusan, about 83 kilometers from Nabunturan. Can be reached by four-wheel-drive vehicles. Andap Inland Resort New Bataan 0910-430-5531 Bamboo Garden Resort New Bataan Golden Valley Resort Magsaysay, Nabunturan Toyuzu Inland Resort Mainit, Nabunturan (082) 221-6771 Rebucas Cold Spring 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 Bern Brioso Beach Resort Mabini 0919-871-1218 Gloria Beach Resort Pantukan Magnaga Waters Beach Resort Pantukan (084) 218-1216

Kumaykay Falls Panansalan

Lake Leonard Maco Colorful butterflies hover around the lake and river that’s also ideal for fishing Mainit Sulfuric Hot Springs Maco 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. 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

Pajo Beach Resort Mabini

Kanlawig Hot Springs Maragusan

Calamocan Brooks New Bataan Trekking challenge 0920-222-6147 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. For climbing reservations: 0921-583-0244, 0920-2226147 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 Reservations: Diocese of Tagum (084) 218-1402 Magnaga Waters and Resorts Magnaga, Pantukan (084) 217-3144, 400-2708 Comval Hotel & Restaurant Poblacion, Nabunturan Toyuzo Hot Spring Resort Mainit, Nabunturan (082) 221-6771 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

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 Haven’s Peak Maragusan 0918-432-8865 www.havenspeak.com gosouth

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   

Tudaya Falls SIbulan-Mount Apo Peak Trail Tudaya School of Living Tradition Hydro-Electric Development Corp.

   

San Miguel Brewery Ayala Agri. Dev’t. Corporation Crash Landing Resort Sibulan River White Water Tubing

 SODACO Farms  Aquamines Prawn and Hatchery Farm

INAWAYAN

SIBULAN

DARONG

JOSE RIZAL TIBOLO

ASTORGA

 BagoboTagabawa Cultural Village

CORONON

 Cultural Village  Saliducon Cave

ZONE I

SINORON

 My Paradise Beach Resort  Tropical Fruit Highway MELILIA

 Marine Fish Cages  Sea Rock Garden  Bird Sanctuary

 Pryce Gases, Inc.  Filinvest, Inc.  Tionko Farms

ZONE II

SALIDUCON ZONE III TUBAN

MATUTUNGAN

 Franklin Baker Co.  Maharlika AgriMarine Ventures

ZONE IV

TAGABULI

 Talisay Seafoods Houses  Tabing Dagat Resto  Woodcraft Industry

 Pasig Islet  Mangrove Forest  Marine Sanctuary       

BATO

Sta. Cruz, Davao del sur

 Coco Davao, Inc  GSL Foods Enterprises

Municipal Hall Building Municipal Training Center Integrated Transport Terminal El Grande Function House Balay ni Nonoy Pension House Tajos Beach Resort Bernadette Snack Inn

URBAN CENTER NATIONAL ROAD PROVINCIAL ROAD CITY BOUNDARY LINE BARANGAY BOUNDARY LINE MT. APO NATURAL PARK BOUNDARY LINE CONTESTED BOUNDARY LINE

( SHOWING THE EIGHTEEN BARANGAYS ) SCALE 0

1 : 150,000 m. 1

2

4

6

8

BARANGAY PROPER PREPARED BY :

OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR STA. CRUZ, DAVAO DEL SUR

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KILOMETERS

September 2004 M.P.D.O. (Topo Map), N.S.O., Region XI

Province of Agusan del Sur

Monkayo

ince Prov

Laak

nt Orie avao

of D

Montevista Compostela

al

Province of Davao del Norte Nabunturan

New Bataan

Mawab

COMPOSTELA VALLEY

Maco Maragusan Mabini Davao Gulf tal rien

Pantukan

f

o ce

vin Pro

O vao Da

DAVAO DEL NORTE COMPOSTELA VALLEY

MATI Davao Gulf

davao ORIENTAL gosouth

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Agusan del Sur Province

Bukidnon Province

Compostela Valley Province Kapalong

San Isidro

Talaingod

Asuncion New Corella

Sto. Tomas Davao City

Tagum

B.E. Dujali Carmen Panabo Davao Gulf

Samal

DAVAO DEL NORTE gosouth

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Saffron skies A Found something fantastic about Davao? Tell us about it and get published! GoSouth magazine accepts contributions of original unpublished travel articles and high-resolution photos. Articles must be from 200 to 500 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]. 54

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sky turning golden from the setting sun caught the eye of JULIE DYOGI on a visit to the sea wall at Matina Aplaya, Davao City. Dyogi, a bank employee based in Manila, makes it a point to visit Davao four times a year “to get away from the hustle and bustle of the metro, enjoy the simplicity of life, and the food.” And of course, to view romantic sunsets with her loved one.

Suroy ta sa ComVal!

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