MAWAB, Davao de Oro — The Municipality of Mawab has achieved a historic milestone after its first-ever tourism establishment received accreditation from the Department of Tourism (DOT), 67 years after the town’s founding.
Sabor by La Ela’s Café Restaurant officially became Mawab’s first DOT-accredited establishment, marking a significant achievement in the municipality’s efforts to strengthen its tourism industry and promote the town as an emerging destination in Davao de Oro.
The accomplishment is one of the results of the continued tourism development initiatives of the local government under the leadership of Mayor Myrill Apit, whose administration has prioritized the promotion of local attractions and the growth of the municipality’s tourism sector.
The accreditation was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Municipal Tourism Office, led by Municipal Tourism Officer Michaella Paragua, in partnership with the Provincial Investment and Promotion Division under the Provincial Administrator’s Office, which provided technical guidance and assistance throughout the DOT accreditation process.
Mayor Apit hailed the achievement as a defining moment for the municipality, saying it reflects Mawab’s readiness to compete as a tourism destination in the province.
“This milestone is not only a victory for one establishment but for the entire Municipality of Mawab. It proves that through unity, hard work, and good governance, we can raise the standards of our local tourism industry and create more opportunities for our people. We hope this inspires more local businesses to pursue DOT accreditation and become partners in showcasing the best of Mawab,” Apit said.
Local officials described the accreditation as more than just a recognition for a single business, saying it represents a major step forward for the municipality’s tourism industry. DOT accreditation assures visitors that an establishment meets national standards for quality, safety, and service.
The local government also disclosed that several other tourism-related establishments in Mawab are currently undergoing the DOT accreditation process and are awaiting the results of their inspections.
Officials expressed optimism that the latest milestone will encourage more investments, attract visitors, create employment opportunities, and further boost the local economy through sustainable tourism development.
The achievement underscores Mawab’s continuing progress toward establishing itself as a competitive tourism destination in Davao de Oro, opening a new chapter in the municipality’s 67-year history.
