BY MARIANNE MARIE FLORES MASOCOL & PIO LLOYD BAGUIO/DSSC Interns
THE DEPARTMENT of Tourism Region XI (DOT XI) announced the launch of coffee and cacao tour packages, which will become one of Davao’s key agri-tourism showcases.
DOT XI regional director Tanya Rabat-Tan announced the initiative during PEP Talks held on July 11, 2025, at SM Lanang.
“We’re gaining strength in coffee and, of course, sa cacao, 80% cacao production in the Philippines is coming from here in Region XI,” she said.
Presently, the cacao and coffee tours have already jumped off in Balutakay, Kapatagan, Tibolo, Santa Cruz, and Davao City.
With the DA XI providing data and assistance, farms interested in joining will be assessed using DOT XI’s criteria.
Additionally, the initiative also targets to create more livelihood opportunities, encourage organic farming, community-based tourism, and longer tourist stays.
“This is just the beginning,” DOT XI RD Tanya Rabat-Tan said, “and one way of telling everyone that we have these tours already. So, please come and visit us here and experience the cacao and coffee, and meet the people behind these beans.”
Mary Ann Magno Constantino, regional technical director Department of Agriculture XI, said they are collaborating with the DOT XI, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Department of Science and Technology to promote Davao as a “high-value crops region.”
“The DA cannot do it alone on the production, nagpo-produce na tayo. But in terms of its promotion, that it will be recognized on the marketing aspect, as well as the social and economic, which need collaboration with each other,” she said.
