P184.5-M bridge collapses in Davao City

By Ivy Tejano

Published May 20, 2026 11:04 pm  

THE bridge that collapsed in Davao City. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

DAVAO CITY – A bridge in Purok 2 in Barangay Callawa in Buhangin District here has collapsed due to heavy rains and flooding since Monday night.

Photos circulating on social media showed portions of the structure collapsing after flood water from a nearby creek eroded its foundations.

The collapsed structure was part of a Department of Public Works and Highways infrastructure project under Contract ID 17LO-0133 – “Concreting/Widening/Improvement of Bypass Road at Buhangin-Tigatto-Mandug-Callawa-Fatima Road, including Reconstruction of Callawa Bridge and Right-of-Way (RROW)” – in the second district of Davao City.

The contract was signed on May 11, 2017 during the term of Davao City second district Rep. Vincent Garcia.

Project records showed it was awarded by the DPWH-11 to Premium Megastructures Inc., represented by General Manager Jerome Butaya, with a total contract cost of P184,588,193.30 and a completion period of 240 calendar days.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the government by then DPWH-11 office-in-charge Regional Director Allan Borromeo.

DPWH-11 spokesperson Dean Ortiz said the collapsed bridge measured about 15 meters and had been affected by progressive erosion over the years, worsened by the widening of the creek below the structure.

Ortiz said the situation deteriorated further due to heavy rains and flood currents from Monday night (May 18) to Tuesday morning (May 19).

“The creek widened significantly over the years, eroding the bridge approaches until the structure could no longer withstand the pressure from the floodwaters,” Ortiz said.

No injuries or fatalities were reported. Authorities are continuing damage assessments and monitoring other flood-affected areas in Davao City as rains persist.

Davao City Council OKs electric vehicle incentive ordinance

By Ivy Tejano

Published May 15, 2026 09:32 pm

OCAMPO (FB)

DAVAO CITY – The Davao City Council approved on Tuesday, May 12, the ordinance establishing a comprehensive incentives framework for the electric vehicle (EV) sector, marking a major local push toward sustainable transport development in the city.

The measure provides fiscal and regulatory incentives to EV manufacturers, dealers, users, public transport operators, charging station developers, spare parts suppliers, and facilities involved in battery recycling and environmentally safe disposal.

Authored by Councilor Temujin Ocampo, chairman of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, the ordinance aligns local policies with Republic Act No. 11697 or the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), as well as the city’s existing Local Incentive Code.

Under the ordinance, Ocampo said qualified enterprises may be granted incentives, including tax holidays of up to six years, subject to compliance with the ordinance’s requirements and investment thresholds.

The measure introduced streamlined processing procedures for EV-related businesses under an “ease of doing business” approach.

While certain non-regulatory fees, such as mayor’s permit charges, may be waived, companies will still be required to settle regulatory fees, including building permits and waste management charges.

For EV users, the ordinance grants free parking in designated city-managed areas, including sites on San Pedro and C.M. Recto Streets, for up to three hours.

Ocampo said the time limit was set to prevent misuse of parking spaces while still encouraging EV adoption.

Although the ordinance cannot compel private establishments, the city government encouraged malls and other commercial operators to adopt similar incentives for EV users.

On infrastructure readiness, the council reported consultations with Davao Light and Power Co., which assured sufficient electricity supply to support the expected expansion of charging stations and related facilities.

Industry interest has been noted, with companies such as BYD and VinFast reportedly exploring investment opportunities in Davao City’s EV infrastructure, including installing hundreds of charging stations.

The ordinance set specific eligibility requirements for businesses seeking incentives.

Domestic-oriented manufacturers must have at least P100 million in capital, employ a minimum of 20 workers, and be registered with the Board of Investments or Philippine Economic Zone Authority.

Export-oriented manufacturers must have at least P200 million in paid-up capital, at least 25 employees, BOI or PEZA registration, and export at least 60 percent of their production.

Distributors and dealers must invest at least P10 million and employ at least five workers, with at least 70 percent of the employees residing in Davao City.

Charging station operators and enterprises involved in EV battery recycling or e-waste processing must invest at least P2 million or operate at least two charging stations, whichever is higher.

City officials said all investment proposals will undergo evaluation by the appropriate investment review body before qualification for incentives.

Davao City Council honors SPMC for citations

 

By Ivy Tejano

Published May 6, 2026 10:53 pm

DAVAO CITY – The Davao City Council commended the Southern Philippines Medical Center here led by Dr. Ricardo B. Audan, on Tuesday, May 5, for receiving multiple national and international awards.

Audan said the awards represent more than institutional recognition. “They honor the dedication of thousands of healthcare workers, administrative employees, and support staff who continue to deliver service with compassion, excellence, and resilience.”

Councilor Trisha Ann Villafuerte, chairwoman of the Committee on Health, congratulated SPMC for being the Most Sustainable and Livable Hospital in the Philippines during the 10th Nation Builders and MOSLIV Awards at Okada Manila on April 22.

Villafuerte said the recognition reflects SPMC’s commitment to creating a hospital environment that is sustainable and conducive for both patients and healthcare workers.

Audan was named the Most Visionary Iconic Professional of the Year during the Grand Honors 2026 Asia Iconic Excellence and Innovation Awards in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The recognition placed Audan among Asia’s distinguished healthcare leaders and highlighted his role in steering the hospital’s growth.

The SPMC was also cited by the Philippine Hospital Association as first runner-up in the Most Outstanding Hospital Award for the government sector, Level 3 category, on Nov. 19, 2025, at The Manila Hotel.

The SPMC was ranked 29th in the Philippines in the list of the World’s Best Hospitals 2026 published by Newsweek and Statista on Feb. 25, 2026.

The hospital has maintained a five-star rating for four consecutive years under the Department of Health’s Green Viability Assessment program that measures environmental sustainability in healthcare facilities.

The SPMC ranked 142nd among 300 employers nationwide in the Philippines’ Best Employers 2026 survey.

“These awards are not just for SPMC. They are for every Davaoeño, every Mindanaoan, every Filipino who has ever depended on this great institution,” Villafuerte said.

These citations came as SPMC continues to deal with overcrowding and staffing shortages. Hospital officials have acknowledged these issues.

Cacao to boost Davao City tourism, identity

 CACAO producers and entrepreneurs showcase local cacao-infused dishes in celebration of Cinco de Mayo at Azuela High Street in Lanang, Davao City, on Wednesday, May 5. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

By Ivy Tejano

Published May 6, 2026 11:35 pm

Davao City cacao producers and entrepreneurs have expressed confidence that locally grown cacao will boost the city's identity, tourism potential, and export competitiveness.

Cacao de Davao and Siempre Taqueria and Bar have joined hands during the Cinco de Mayo to show that cacao can be used beyond chocolate and confectionery.

"With this collaboration, we are pushing the idea that cacao is not just simply cacao. There are still so many things that can be done with it, and there are many more possible collaborations not only here but even with other countries," Ethan Kyle Lim, chief operating officer of Cacao de Davao, said.

Lim said Davao cacao's quality is now being recognized in high-end dining spaces, opening the door to wider applications such as skincare, soap, and butter-based products, as well as other emerging value-added industries.

He emphasized the broader economic and tourism impacts of showcasing local products through culinary events and collaborations, saying these initiatives help position Davao City as an open, innovation-driven city for investors.

The cacao producer noted that Davao is expanding its identity beyond its traditional association with fruits. "Davao is already known as the cacao capital of the Philippines, not only durian and mangosteen and other fruits here," he added.

Lim emphasized that collaborations with local restaurants have become key to sustaining cacao's visibility in the city, citing partnerships with establishments such as Lamano, Ikao, and Siempre.

"The growing collaboration among local businesses and farmers is helping establish a unified cacao movement in Davao City," he said. "If we unite and work together, we can showcase the best of our products and help tourism thrive even more."

Lim added that the initiative aims to encourage more farmers and businesses to participate in strengthening Davao's cacao industry, positioning it as a key driver of economic and tourism growth.

For Gastro Club Corp. and Siempre owner Jaru Chua, the initiative underscores the importance of working directly with local farmers and producers to strengthen supply chains and support local livelihoods.

Chua said their Filipino-Mexican cuisine concept is rooted in showcasing Davao's agricultural strength. He added that Davao City and the Davao region remain major hubs for fresh produce in Mindanao.

The local entrepreneur described the collaboration with Cacao de Davao as a continuation of earlier partnerships, noting that such efforts prove local businesses can scale impact when working together.

"I don't know if everybody is familiar with authentic Mexican food, but many of its dishes, desserts, and drinks truly use cacao. This time, localized using cacao from Davao City," Eric Patrick Dulay, entrepreneur and co-owner of Siempre.

Chua also said such initiatives have the potential to attract both domestic and international tourists to visit Davao City, as it always has something to offer, especially with cacao tourism in Davao continuing to grow and gain wider recognition.

Chef Mark Delumban explained that integrating cacao into savory and fusion dishes helps broaden Davao's culinary identity. He added that their approach combines familiarity with innovation.

Delumban said cacao naturally fits into Filipino-Mexican fusion cuisine due to shared culinary influences, citing dishes like mole in Mexican cuisine and traditional Davao tablea-based recipes. "We do not want the flavors to be too far from the local palate."

Lim shared insights from his benchmarking trips to Vietnam and Thailand last year, which he said helped identify opportunities to improve local cacao production systems and packaging.

He confirmed that Cacao de Davao products are already exported to markets including China, Europe, Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan, with plans to expand further through airport kiosks and additional Asian markets.

Lim noted that Southeast Asian countries have advanced chocolate industries with strong export presence. Despite this, he emphasized that Davao's competitive advantage lies in taste and quality.

 

Travel expo slated in Davao City

By Ivy Tejano

Published Apr 23, 2026 10:53 pm

THE World Travel Expo 2026 from May 15 to 17 in Davao City is launched on Thursday, April 23, at Grand Regal Hotel. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

DAVAO CITY – The Davao leg of the World Travel Expo 2026 will be held from May 15 to 17 at Ayala Abreeza Mall here.

WTE Managing Director Miles Caballero said 25 exhibitors from Visayas and Mindanao are participating and is part of their ongoing efforts to promote local and domestic destinations amid the crisis.

Caballero said the expo remains relevant despite the rise of online booking platforms as many properties reserve their best deals for face-to-face events and limited three-day sale periods.

She warned travelers to be cautious of online scams and check the Department of Tourism for accredited agencies.

Caballero said Davao City continues to draw visitors because many people see this city as one of the safest cities in the country.

"This sense of security helps offset the negative impact of broader political and economic concerns on travel demand," Caballero said.

Representatives of participating hotels pitched travel offers during the conference.

Domini Sebastian del Rosario of Grand Regal Hotel highlighted this city's diverse offerings, from urban scenery to islands and highland destinations.

Liza Gamo, president of the Davao Hotels and Resorts Sales and Marketing Association, said tourism is often one of the first sectors hit during crises. But Gamo said hotels here maintain stable occupancy driven by conventions and business trips and major pre-booked conventions remain on schedule.

Gamo said that Davao hotels continue to respond creatively to current challenges by offering competitive packages, flexible deals, and value-added promotions to attract more travelers.

Organizers expect the event to generate bookings, strengthen partnerships, and help sustain tourism activity in Davao and neighboring destinations.

Davao City rejects US military facilities

 

By Ivy Tejano

Published Apr 15, 2026 10:47 pm

City & Local Guides

DAVAO CITY – The Davao City government strongly opposed any proposal to construct United States military infrastructure within its jurisdiction, warning that such plans would meet resistance.

In a statement released on Tuesday, April 14, City Information Office head Harvey Lanticse said the local government does not support the establishment of foreign military facilities in the city.

"The City Government of Davao does not welcome and will oppose any plan to build US military facilities within the jurisdiction," Lanticse said.

Davao City's position came amid national discussions on the possible expansion of the US military presence in the Philippines under the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.

Reports said that the 2014 Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement allows rotational deployment of American forces and the construction of support facilities in approved locations.

At present, nine sites in the country have been designated under the agreement. The Davao Gulf is not included among those locations.

The Davao Gulf has surfaced in recent discussions as a potential site for a large fuel storage facility reportedly backed by the US, prompting the city to reiterate its opposition.

Davao City did not elaborate on specific actions that may be taken should a proposal formally materialize, but maintains opposition to foreign military facilities within the city.

Church urges faithful to practice simplicity this Holy Week

 

By Ivy Tejano

Published Mar 30, 2026 10:11 pm

DAVAO CITY – The Archdiocese of Davao called on the faithful on Monday, March 30, to practice responsible travel and simplicity this Holy Week amid global hardships, including the ongoing war in the Middle East.

Archbishop of Davao Romulo G. Valles reminded Catholics to do what they can to help themselves and support the most vulnerable, even in small ways, during Holy Week and beyond.

Valles encouraged limiting vehicle use, particularly those powered by fossil fuels, and suggested planning travel only for essential purposes. He also recommended carpooling when attending liturgical celebrations.

He addressed the tradition of Visita Iglesia or visiting churches on Maundy Thursday and sometimes Good Friday, noting that while this is a beautiful custom, it is not obligatory.

He said the faithful may visit only one or two churches if needed, emphasizing that the spirit of sacrifice and mindfulness matters more than the number of churches visited.

“We do what we can do. We sacrifice. In all this, we trust that the Lord will bless our efforts, no matter how small, and make ‘miracles’ of them, to give us strength and hope in these difficult times,” Valles said.

Valles underscored the Church’s call for reflection, simplicity, and care for the community and the environment during the solemn season of Lent.

Davao City celebrates FPRRD's 81st birth anniversary

By Ivy Tejano

Published Mar 28, 2026 10:25 pm

THE crowd at former President Rodrigo Duterte's 81st birthday in Davao City. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

DAVAO CITY – Thousands of supporters joined a Solidarity Walk on Saturday afternoon, March 28, to celebrate the 81st birth anniversary of former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is detained overseas for alleged crimes against humanity.

Participants from the public and private sectors began marching around 4 p.m., wearing green shirts and carrying small and large Philippine, Japanese, and United States flags, as they moved from Roxas Ave. to San Pedro Square for a program.

Supporters holding candles and singing Happy Birthday to the former Chief Executive said the activity aimed to convey their greetings and prayers for the patriarch and expressed hope that he would soon return to Davao City.

In a video message, Davao City first district Rep. Paolo Duterte, who is in The Hague for his father, thanked Filipinos worldwide for celebrating the former Chief Executive's birthday and their continued prayers for his health.

"To my fellow Filipinos in different parts of the world who are celebrating the 81st birthday of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, thank you very, very much! Thank you for your continued prayers for his health," Rep. Duterte said.

Rep. Duterte thanked thousands of people who sent letters of support to former President Duterte and noted that their messages conveyed encouragement, prayers, and solidarity during a challenging time.

The lawmaker’s siblings, Vice President Sara Duterte, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, and Veronica Duterte, extended warm greetings and messages, thanking supporters across the country and abroad for celebrating former President Duterte’s birthday.

Vice President Duterte stressed the importance of defending her father’s rights and described it as a matter of national sovereignty and called on the public to remain vigilant against what she called weaponization of the law and foreign interference in the country’s judicial processes.

Sen. Christopher Lawrence Go, a longtime aide of the former President, described the occasion as "the saddest birthday" the patriarch experienced and noted his preference for simple, private celebrations focused on helping people in poverty.

Go recalled his years of service with former President Duterte and described him as more than a father to him. He urged supporters to continue praying for the former President's safety, health, and freedom.

Davao City Councilor Luna Maria Dominique Acosta conveyed birthday wishes, saying that while former President Duterte was not present, his supporters gathered to celebrate on his behalf, emphasizing the widespread support he continues to receive.

"I wish you were here with us today. But since you are not, we will celebrate on your behalf. We are all here –Davao City and the entire nation – so many people love you, Tay! Happy, happy birthday! We love you!" Acosta said.

Former Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado delivered the opening remarks at the program and referred to former President Duterte as "a living hero," drawing applause from the crowd.

Other officials and close associates who attended and delivered messages include former Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Duterte Youth party-list chairman Ronald Gian Carlo Cardema. Medialdea, however, was assisted offstage after appearing unwell during his speech.

Medialdea is a close friend of the former President and accompanied him as his legal representative when he was brought to The Hague on March 12, 2025, in connection with proceedings before the International Criminal Court.

Also present during the activity were former Presidential Legal Counsel and Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, Atty. Jimmy Bondoc, members of the Davao City Council, and local and national government officials.

Thousands of Davaoeños lined up to receive free food and water distributed during the event. Several groups distributed roasted pig, packed lunch, and bottled water to thank attendees.

Davao City dad appeals: Save gas on Araw ng Dabaw civic parade

By Ivy Tejano

Published Mar 19, 2026 10:34 pm

DAVAO CITY – The Davao City Council passed a resolution on Thursday, March 19, urging all participants in the 2026 Araw ng Dabaw Civic Parade to join the event on foot and refrain from using fuel-powered and electric vehicles.

Committee on Government-Owned Properties chairperson Councilor J. Melchor Quitain Jr. called on all participants to avoid deploying gasoline, diesel, oil-powered, and even electric vehicles in the parade on March 28.

Quitain said the initiative aims to underscore the importance of conserving energy resources amid ongoing global supply concerns stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.

According to the resolution, the Araw ng Dabaw celebration, observed annually in March, will culminate in a civic parade that traditionally draws hundreds of participants and often features motorized floats and displays.

The councilor cited the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which he said has disrupted petroleum product supplies and contributed to rising fuel prices in the Philippines.

Quitain added that the resulting increase in transportation and production costs has also driven up the prices of basic commodities and utilities, including electricity.

The resolution emphasized that limiting fuel consumption, even during large public events, could help mitigate the economic strain brought about by these global developments.

It also noted that the situation remains uncertain, with no immediate signs of stabilization in fuel supply and pricing, amid continuing geopolitical tensions and volatile global oil market conditions.

Quitain appealed to Davaoeños to contribute in their own way by conserving fuel and resources, stressing that collective action can help cushion the broader economic impact.

Under the resolution, participants are strongly encouraged to take part in the parade without vehicles to promote awareness of energy conservation and responsible resource use.

Davao City unwraps Furusato Davao Tourism Circuit

 

OLAN Emboscado, tour guide and researcher of the Davao City Tourism Operations Office’s Tourism Circuit Development Project, leads the Furusato Davao Tourism Circuit Familiarization Tour on Friday, March 13. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

By Ivy Tejano

Published Mar 15, 2026 05:13 pm

DAVAO CITY – The city government of Davao is deepening its tourism offerings with the new Furusato Davao Tourism Circuit, giving stakeholders, locals, and visitors a closer look at the city's Japanese heritage and historical landmarks during the 89th Araw ng Dabaw celebration.

A familiarization tour on March 13 allowed tourism stakeholders, cultural advocates, and media practitioners to revisit Barangay Mintal, once known as "Little Tokyo," home to one of the largest Japanese communities in the Philippines before World War II.

Organized by the Davao City Tourism Operations Office, the tour showed the history of Davao's Japanese community, the impact of the war, and their lasting contributions to the city, making the site a tourist spot and an important cultural landmark.

According to Olan Emboscado, tour guide and researcher of the Tourism Circuit Development Project of the CTOO, Japanese migration to Davao City started in 1903, when American abaca planters brought workers from Japan.

Suda Ryosuke led the first group from Kagoshima Prefecture. "They came to the city in search of a better life," Emboscado said. "Japanese later worked as abaca farmers and managed plantations across the area."

History said that some of the Japanese married Filipinas and started families in the city, where they found opportunities that improved their lives compared to what they had in Japan. The Japanese community in Davao grew and prospered.

Many settlers became successful abaca farmers and plantation owners. One of them was Ohta Kyosaburo, who established an abaca plantation in Mintal and is often called the "Father of Abaca Development."

Before World War II, many Japanese settlers lived in the Mintal–Calinan–Toril area, where fertile land supported large abaca plantations. The circuit development project team is still studying the history of the settlers in the Calinan and Toril areas.

At its peak, Davao had about 20,000 Japanese migrants, the largest Japanese community in Southeast Asia at the time. The area had Japanese schools, offices, stores, hospitals, photo studios, and more. They become influential in the city.

The abaca became one of the world's most in-demand export products. The Japanese introduced a machine called hagutan, which helped strip abaca fibers faster and produce more for export, especially for ropes used by merchant and naval ships.

Davao City was later created, in part, to limit Japanese influence in the area. In 1937, the Municipality of Davao and the Municipal District of Guianga—where many Japanese plantations were located—were merged to form the city.

According to history, early city mayors were appointed rather than elected because the government feared that the large and influential Japanese community might gain control of local elections.

However, the community's prosperity ended during World War II. After Japan's defeat and the liberation of the Philippines, many Japanese immigrants were sent back to Japan, except for their Filipino spouses and children.

With strong anti-Japanese sentiment after the war, several families hid in remote areas. They tried to conceal their Japanese identity to avoid discrimination and possible persecution, leaving remnants of the past.

Relations between the Philippines and Japan later improved, especially after the 1962 visit of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko to the Philippines. In 1968, 80 former Japanese immigrants returned to Davao for an emotional visit to the place they once called home.

Every August, groups of Japanese visitors travel to Davao City and visit the Mintal Public Cemetery to pay respects to their ancestors. Mintal, a barangay near Calinan, was once home to a large Japanese community and was often called Little Tokyo.

In 1980, second-generation Japanese descendants, known as Nikkei Jin, formed the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai Inc. The organization aims to restore the identity and history of Japanese descendants in the Philippines who were affected by the war.

One of its strong supporters is Uchida Tatsuo, a Davao-born Japanese businessman who later found success in Japan. In 1994, he helped establish the Imin Museum inside the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai School in Calinan District.

The museum was renovated in 2019 through funding from the Japanese government's cultural assistance program, along with support from PNJK and the Philippine Nikkei Jin Kai International School.

The tour also highlighted the former Santa Ana Port on Ramon Magsaysay Ave., Davao City Hall on San Pedro St., originally built in 1926, which, along with the Kyosaburo Monument in Mintal, celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.

Emboscado said the three landmarks, which bear historical markers installed by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), are recognized for their significance in Davao City's history.

"These sites remind the people of Davao and visitors, as well, of the people, events, and partnerships that shaped modern Davao," Emboscado said, also acknowledging Ohta Development Co.'s contribution to the city's early development.

Grace Plata, tourism relations specialist of the CTOO and focal person for the Tourism Circuit Development Project, said this familiarization tour is the first of three they are conducting for the newly launched tourism circuits in the city.

"It allows our partners, stakeholders, and visitors to experience the routes while we further enhance storytelling based on fact research and visitor experience," Plata said, adding that CTOO continues to refine such experience through ongoing research.

Plata said the upcoming circuits will feature other historical chapters, including the Furukawa and Toril communities, with key sites such as the Memorial to Datu Bangcas in Alambre, Toril, honoring one of the area's early local leaders.

The launch of Furusato Davao is part of the city government's broader effort to diversify tourism experiences, strengthen Davao City's position as a key destination in Mindanao, and honor its rich multicultural history.

Women's hybrid trade fair kicks off in Davao City

 

By Ivy Tejano

Published Mar 12, 2026 09:27 pm

WOMEN entrepreneurs gathered at SM Lanang Premier in Davao City as the Women’s Business Council Philippines, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry and SM Supermalls, kicked off the Women’s Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair on Thursday, March 12. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

DAVAO CITY – Women entrepreneurs gathered at SM Lanang Premier here as the Women’s Business Council Philippines opened the Women’s Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair, the first in the Davao region, on Thursday, March 12.

The three-day trade fair, organized by WomenBizPH with the Department of Trade and Industry and SM Supermalls, showcases women-led small businesses and offers opportunities for promotion, learning, and networking.

Rhoda Castro-Caliwara, chairwoman of WomenBizPH, said the Women’s Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair marks a significant milestone for the initiative that began four years ago in Metro Manila.

Caliwara said the event expanded to Mindanao in its fifth year and the timing is meaningful as it coincides with the celebration of Women’s Month and the 89th Araw ng Dabaw.

“It took time and effort to bring this trade fair here in Mindanao, but with the encouragement of our partners, especially the Department of Trade and Industry, we made it happen,” Caliwara said.

She added that the event aims to celebrate the achievements of women entrepreneurs while encouraging collaboration and mutual support among them. “When women support women, great things happen.”

Mary Ann Montemayor, focal person of WomenBizPH, described the Davao staging as a milestone event and part of their flagship initiative series, which serves as a marketplace and a venue showcasing the creativity and resilience of Filipina entrepreneurs.

She highlighted the role of the Women’s Business Council of the Philippines in advancing women’s economic participation and promoting initiatives aligned with regional economic cooperation.

Founded in 1997, Montemayor said the organization has advocated for women’s participation in business and served as a private sector partner of the government in promoting women’s economic empowerment through regional platforms such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

“The Davao event expands the initiative’s reach to Mindanao and strengthens regional economic participation,” Montamayor said. “This marks an important landmark as WomenBiz expands its reach to Mindanao.”

Montemayor said that the Women’s Strong Network Hybrid Trade Fair is here to expand market access, strengthen business resilience, foster collaboration, and advance women’s economic empowerment.

Department of Trade and Industry-11 Regional Director Romeo Castañaga said the DTI supports the initiative, citing their role in promoting inclusive economic growth. He said the trade fair brings together women-led MSMEs under one platform.

“This initiative reflects the growing strength and influence of women entrepreneurs in our region and nationwide,” Castañaga said, adding that the event provides market opportunities for MSMEs, builds networks, and strengthens business capacities.

Castañaga said that the trade fair is a platform for empowerment, innovation, and inclusive growth, ensuring that women entrepreneurs are not only participants in development but also leaders of development.

The trade fair will be held from March 12 to 14, featuring product exhibits, learning sessions, and talks to help entrepreneurs gain new skills and expand their businesses. Outstanding participants will receive a laptop at the end of the event.