DAVAO Region’s tourism industry moved beyond mere recovery in 2025, officially “leveling up” into an emerging global destination.
Department of Tourism (DOT) XI regional director Tanya Rabat Tan reported in the Industry Gathering and Recognition of Tourism Stakeholders held on Jan. 22 at the Grand Regal Hotel, that the region’s success stems from the strategic collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“The region’s strong performance reflects renewed traveler confidence and steady trajectory toward inclusive growth,” Tan said during her presentation.
This synergy fueled a surge in tourist arrivals, logging 2,897,168 visitors in the region through Q3 in 2025 alone. Davao also aggressively expanded its global footprint with DOT Xl’s strategic roadshows across Japan’s major hubs—Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya—alongside high-impact missions to Thailand, Malaysia, and Australia.
These international initiatives, paired with bolstered air connectivity, have locked in steady interest from the USA, China, South Korea, Japan, and Australia-the region’s top source markets.
Domestically, Davao solidified its MICE powerhouse status, hosting major events, including DOT Xl’s hosting of PAL Awards (Philippines and International), Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino, and providing support to various events, such as the Davao Food & Wine Festival and the inaugural Davao-Japan Friendship Golf Tournament.
DOT Xl also launched experiential agri-tourism through its signature Cacao and Coffee tours. In addition, adventure tourism surged with the return of the Davao Adventure Challenge. These initiatives not only stimulated local economies but also ensured that the region’s natural and cultural heritage are woven directly into the visitor experience.
Beyond the sights, DOT XI focused on capacitating its workforce. The agency set a new benchmark by training 14,892 stakeholders and accrediting 441 enterprises to ensure quality service at every touchpoint of the traveler’s journey and provide a safe, standard-compliant, and satisfying visitor experience.
Through constant engagement via town halls with MICE, accommodation, and travel sectors—alongside Air Service Development Committee meetings—Tan said that the local tourism industry remains proactive, adaptive, and responsive to evolving market needs.
With 2025 serving as a banner year, Davao Region has truly positioned itself not just as a destination but as a leading example for sustainable, inclusive, and collaborative tourism development.
