BY ARNELYN L. LAPATIS & MEKYLA JANE TICAR/CMU Interns
TOURISM remained one of Davao City’s top moneymakers, which prompted a lawmaker to include it in the three priority agendas.
On Tuesday, June 10, Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre said Tuesday, the chairperson of the committee on tourism, said tourists have contributed to the city’s coffers, hence the need to promote the industry.
“Tourism is included in the top three priorities of our mayor (Sebastian Duterte). It has a significant contribution to the city in terms of our economy,” Alejandre said during the Aprubado Konseho forum on June 10.
In 2024, Davao City welcomed about 1.8 million tourists, representing a 50% increase from the 1.2 million in 2023.
The councilor also reported that the city is actively seeking new tourism spots, which could provide revenues and livelihood to residents.
“We are looking forward to developing ecotourism, highlighting the rich biodiversity of Marilog and Paquibato District as natural tourist spots,” he stressed.
Alejandre also lauded the successful launching of the second edition of Duaw Davao- the newest addition to the city’s lineup of events. Duaw Davao 2025 officially opened last June 5 and will continue until June 29.
Alejandre recognized there is a challenge in inviting national and international tourists since Duaw is a new festivity, but he stressed the main goal in conducting this was to attract tourists from nearby provinces of the city.
Duaw Davao features different ongoing activities, including e-sports, music fests, field arts, and exhibits highlighting “Definitely Davao.”
Alejandre highlighted that the roadmap for tourism development will be part of the Executive-Legislative Agenda to create a plan aimed at promoting Davao City’s rich culture and landscapes to attract more tourists.
