FOR THE second consecutive year, Davao City has been crowned the “Best City to Visit in the Philippines,” according to the April 2026 World Travel Index (WTI) report.
The city secured the top spot with an overall score of 75.66, a feat that the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) attributes to a successful synergy between urban progress and public safety.
The WTI report evaluates cities based on infrastructure, visitor satisfaction, and security.
DCPO director PCOL Peter Bauzon Madria welcomed the recognition, noting that the city’s reputation for peace and order remains a primary draw for both local and international tourists.
“This achievement reflects Davao City’s continued excellence,” Madria said in a statement. “It highlights the city as a premier destination where progress, hospitality, and security go hand in hand.”
Davao City remains a powerhouse for eco-tourism, boasting attractions such as the Philippine Eagle Center, Mount Apo, and its proximity to Samal Island’s beaches. The DCPO emphasized that these assets, coupled with the city’s vibrant urban lifestyle, have solidified its standing on the global stage.
While the award celebrates tourism, Madria underscored that the police force’s proactive stance is what sustains this growth. He pointed to intensified police visibility and intelligence-driven operations as key factors in maintaining the “Davao brand” of safety.
“The DCPO remains unwavering in its mission to safeguard the community,” Madria added. “Our police force stands on the frontlines every day to ensure that families feel safe, businesses flourish, and tourists experience the warmth and security that define Davao City.”
The police chief also credited the “culture of discipline” among Davaoeños and the strong partnership between the local government and private stakeholders.
As the city anticipates an influx of visitors following the report, the DCPO assured the public that security programs would be further strengthened to preserve Davao’s status as one of the safest and most progressive hubs in the country.
