Davao City collaboration features versatility of cacao

By Ivy Tejano

Published Jul 1, 2026 11:11 pm

CACAO de Davao and Hey Monday present From Kitchen to Cacao: A Celebration of Bold Flavors, a culinary collaboration showcasing the versatility and unique qualities of Davao-grown cacao through a specially curated menu of savory dishes, desserts, and beverages at Poblacion Market in Davao City on Wednesday, July 1. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

DAVAO CITY – Two Davao City establishments teamed up on Wednesday, July 1, for a culinary collaboration aimed at highlighting the versatility of Davao-grown cacao and encouraging more local food businesses to use homegrown ingredients in their menus.

Guests savored a culinary experience during From Kitchen to Cacao: A Celebration of Bold Flavors, a collaboration between Cacao de Davao and Hey Monday.

The menu featured Mole de Beef, Mixed Berry Granita, White Chocolate Margarita, and a Grilled Cheese Sandwich, each made with locally grown cacao to highlight its versatility in both savory and sweet dishes.

Chefs Therese Nicole del Mundo and Marie Louise Plasencia, owner of Hey Monday, said the initiative seeks to show that cacao can be used not only in desserts, but also in savory dishes and beverages.

For instance, Del Mundo said, the Mole de Beef was inspired by the traditional Mexican sauce, which combines chocolate with spices. The margarita used white chocolate sauce instead of regular syrup, giving the citrus-based drink a sweeter taste.

Plasencia said it was their first time collaborating with a local brand and their first time using cacao in a savory main dish. She added that working with chocolate was challenging because of its complex flavor profile, which can be both sweet and bitter.

Ethan Kyle Lim, chief operating officer of Cacao de Davao, said the partnership was inspired by the growing culinary possibilities in Davao City and the need to create more platforms for local products, restaurants, and food entrepreneurs.

"Here in Davao, there are a lot of things that can still be discovered," Lim said, adding that collaborations like this can open more opportunities for Davao's cacao farmers, local artisans, chefs, and the region's growing cacao industry.

Lim said Hey Monday's participation created a strong impact because of the brand's local following and the quality of its food. He added that Davao-made cacao products can be presented in a way that is both creative and accessible to local diners.

"The event reflects a growing trend of partnerships between local food brands, to encourage restaurants and entrepreneurs to try new recipes and include more local products in their offerings," Lim told reporters.

He emphasized that these collaborations can help strengthen Davao's food identity and attract tourists who want to experience dishes rooted in Davao City's agricultural and culinary strengths.

Lim highlighted the importance of showcasing the people behind the Davao cacao industry, including farmers and local processors, saying the story of Cacao de Davao is not only about business but also about the wider Davao community.

Cacao de Davao and Hey Monday said they hope the collaboration will inspire more local businesses to improve their brands, work with farmers and local producers, and create products that can eventually reach wider markets.

The Davao City Council recognized Cacao de Davao for helping promote the city as a producer of high-quality cacao and a destination for cacao tourism through its support for local farmers, entrepreneurs, and the cacao industry.

City Council approved a resolution on June 23, authored by Councilor Ragde Niño Ibuyan, commending the local chocolate business establishment for its contributions to the city's agriculture and tourism sectors.

Accepting the recognition, Lim shared his vision for Davao City and encouraged fellow micro, small, and medium enterprises to inspire future generations of Davaoeños to dream bigger and create lasting opportunities for the community.

Davao City allocates P108 M for construction of Bahay Pag-asa for girls

By Ivy Tejano

Published Jun 25, 2026 11:03 pm

DAVAO CITY – The Davao City government allocated P108 million for the construction of a dedicated Bahay Pag-asa facility for girls – a safe and specialized rehabilitation center for female Children in Conflict with the Law and Children at Risk.

Funding came from the city's Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. share and was approved through a resolution of Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang, head of the Committee on Finance, Ways and Means, and Appropriations, upon the request of Mayor Sebastian Duterte.

Dayanghirang said in his official Facebook page that the project seeks to address a critical gap in the city's social protection system, noting that the existing Bahay Pag-asa facility operated by the City Social Welfare and Development Office currently caters only to male CICL and CAR.

"The existing infrastructure exclusively houses male Children in Conflict with the Law and Children at Risk, leaving a need for a separate environment that addresses the unique rehabilitation, welfare, and security requirements of female minors," Dayanghirang said.

According to the councilor, the proposed facility follows the passage of City Ordinance No. 0273-26, the Bahay Pag-asa for Girls Programs, by the 21st City Council, which provides for a separate facility for female CICL and CAR.

The ordinance, authored by Councilor Richlyn N. Justol-Baguilod and approved in June 2026, seeks to provide girls with a safe place to access rehabilitation services, counseling, education, healthcare, and other support programs while their cases are being processed.

According to city officials, the new building will provide a secure and supportive environment for female minors awaiting court disposition, while offering programs focused on rehabilitation, healing, and personal development.

The initiative is also in line with Section 49 of Republic Act 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, which requires highly urbanized cities to establish, fund, and operate Bahay Pag-asa centers in accordance with national standards.

Duterte said the project reflects the city government's commitment to child welfare and social justice by ensuring that vulnerable young women receive appropriate care, protection, rehabilitation, and support in a safe and nurturing environment.

The Bahay Pag-asa for Girls facility is expected to strengthen Davao City's juvenile justice and welfare system and provide female minors with greater opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

BizBayani Awards for MSMEs launched in Davao City

 

THE Dito Bizbayani Awards was officially launched on Tuesday evening, June 16, at Acacia Hotel in Davao City. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

By Ivy Tejano

Published Jun 17, 2026 10:03 pm

DAVAO CITY – A telecommunications company officially launched the Bizbayani Awards at Acacia Hotel here on Tuesday evening, June 16, recognizing Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises as the modern-day heroes driving economic growth through innovation, resilience, and digital adoption.

Dito Telecommunity and Dito BizBayan officials said the launching, first in Davao, highlighted the role of MSMEs in strengthening communities and creating opportunities, and that the initiative goes beyond recognition, aiming to build a nationwide movement supporting entrepreneurship.

"This is the beginning of a movement that recognizes the heart, resilience, and innovation of the Filipino MSMEs," Dito BizBayan MSME head Gabby Cui said, adding that the program seeks to empower businesses through connectivity and digital tools.  

He said MSMEs account for over 99 percent of registered businesses in the country and employ most of the workforce, highlighting their role in the economy. He added that the Bizbayani Awards aim to support them, many of who have grown through resilience and self-learning.

"There is a word in Filipino that does not fully translate into English: Bayani (hero)," Cui said during his presentation of the Dito BizBayani. "A bayani builds not only for themselves, but for something larger – for family, for community, and for the nation."

Cui said Dito's experience as a late entrant in the telecommunications industry mirrors the challenges faced by MSMEs, noting that competition and risk-taking are essential for growth and long-term success in a highly competitive market.

An official audio-visual presentation (AVP) presented by Dito BizBayan Community Engagement head Louie Rovillos emphasized the role of entrepreneurs in connecting communities, creating livelihoods, and providing opportunities despite challenges.

Rovillos said the awards were designed to highlight MSME stories of sacrifice, growth, and innovation. She added that the program is open to Filipino-owned MSMEs that have been operating for two years and show business growth, innovation, digital adoption, or community impact.

The awards feature five categories, Growth Excellence, Digital Impact, Employer Experience, Industry Impact, and Innovation, in partnership with organizations including the Department of Trade and Industry, GCash, and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Nomination opened on June 3 and will run until July 3. Finalists will be selected after panel evaluation, followed by public voting from July 8 to July 23. Winners will be determined by 70 percent panel score and 30 percent public votes, with the awards night scheduled for Aug. 12.

Rovillos said winners will receive a trophy, a Dito BizKit with devices and connectivity, and a learning trip to China to study business and technology ecosystems. "Each Bizbayani Award winner will not only be recognized, but also equipped to scale further," she added.

Dito VisMin MSME head Niño Nanquil announced that nominations for the Bizbayani Awards are now open, encouraging the public to recognize entrepreneurs who have demonstrated resilience and innovation in their communities.

The Dito executives said the program is nationwide and may be expanded or regionalized in the future, as the company continues to strengthen connectivity to support MSME growth across the country,  highlighting the "true heartbeat of the Philippine economy."

Davao City sends relief goods to quake-hit areas

A PRIEST blesses relief items for quake victims in Mindanao. (Photo via Ivy Tejano)

By Ivy Tejano

Published Jun 17, 2026 05:05 pm

DAVAO CITY – The Davao City government sent relief assistance on Tuesday morning, June 16, to earthquake-hit areas in Soccsksargen and Davao region.

This city sent 4,000 boxes of relief items and 3,000 one-liter bottles of drinking water to General Santos City, Sarangani town, and Jose Abad Santos in Davao Occidental.

According to the city government, the shipment was carried out in partnership with the Davao City Water District and bottled water manufacturer Nature’s Spring.

A 42-member team from the city, composed of personnel from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the City Social Welfare and Development Office, the City Engineer’s Office, the City Mayor’s Office, the Security Cluster, and other frontline offices, led the relief operations.

City officials said the assistance is part of ongoing support for relief and recovery efforts in areas heavily affected by last week’s magnitude-7.8 earthquake, which displaced and impacted thousands of families in the two regions.

Last week, the city government of Davao, in coordination with the Office of Civil Defense-11, also delivered drinking water to affected communities.

The CDRRMO assisted in the medical evacuation of patients from Sarangani to the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City to receive appropriate medical care.

Authorities said further assistance may be deployed as the needs of affected local government units evolve.

Mount Apo closed from June to August

 

MOUNT Apo (DENR photo)

By Ivy Tejano

Published Jun 1, 2026 10:53 pm

DAVAO CITY – Mount Apo Natural Park (MANP) is closed to all trekking and camping activities from June 1 to Aug. 31.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-11 announced on Monday that suspension of access will be implemented simultaneously in Davao region and Socsksargen.

According to the DENR-11, the measure is intended to support ecological recovery, disaster risk reduction, and the continued protection and conservation of Mount Apo's biodiversity.

"Hiking and camping activities are strictly prohibited during the closure period until further notice," the DENR-11 said, adding that trekking activities will most likely resume on Sept. 1.

Affected access routes are Kidapawan City and the municipalities of Makilala and Magpet in North Cotabato as well as Digos City and the towns of Bansalan and Santa Cruz in Davao del Sur.

The Protected Area Management Board (PAMB), which oversees policy directions for Mount Apo, enforces the yearly off-season under Resolution No. 8, Series of 2021.

PAMB said the initiative is designed to allow the mountain ecosystem to recover and minimize human disturbance, giving wildlife a period of undisturbed habitat.

Mount Apo Natural Park spans around 64,000 hectares in Cotabato in Region 12 and Davao del Sur and Davao City in Region 11. It is recognized as the country's highest peak, rising 2,954 meters above sea level.

Government officially declared the area as a protected zone and part of the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) through Republic Act 9237 in 2003.

DENR offices in Regions 11 and 12 conducted a simulation exercise on April 30 as part of preparations for Mount Apo's evaluation as a United Nations, Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization Global Geopark.

MANP combines key geological, biological, and cultural features that meet UNESCO's geopark standards, and is supported by local governments, Indigenous leaders, and barangay officials.

The official UNESCO validation visit is scheduled for August and will cover areas within Regions 11 and 12, including Mount Apo Natural Park, the DENR-Socsksargen said.

24 foreign nationals nabbed for immigration violations

By Ivy Tejano

Published May 26, 2026 11:41 pm

DAVAO CITY – Twenty-four Chinese nationals were arrested on Monday, May 25, in a joint law enforcement operation by the Bureau of Immigration-11, with the 10th Infantry Division, for immigration violations in Barangay New Little Panay in Panabo City, Davao del Norte.

The 10th Infantry Division said the operation was launched following intelligence reports indicating the presence of foreign nationals allegedly engaged in unauthorized employment and operating under questionable immigration documents in the area.

Immigration authorities initially subjected 27 Chinese nationals to verification. Preliminary investigation found out that 24 of them allegedly committed various immigration violations under Commonwealth Act No. 613 or the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940.   

The BI-11 noted that violations include misrepresentation, working without the required visa or permit, and overstaying while engaged in unauthorized employment.

Authorities also discovered that some of the apprehended individuals were allegedly employed by companies other than those that had petitioned for their visas. 

"Others were reportedly working despite holding only tourist visas and lacking the necessary employment permits and work visas," said Major Gen. Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division.

They are being held at the compound of Tri-Shining International Oil Corp./Kunheting Corp. where immigration authorities are conducting initial processing and documentation.

Luzon said the BI-11 led the enforcement operation as part of the government's intensified campaign against illegal employment and immigration violations involving foreign nationals in the region.

The Army officer underscored the importance of continued inter-agency cooperation in upholding national security and enforcing immigration laws.

"This successful operation reflects the strong coordination among government agencies in addressing unlawful activities involving foreign nationals," Luzon said.

He added that the military remains committed to supporting lawful enforcement operations to ensure public safety and protect national interests within their area of operation.

Luzon said further investigation and documentation are ongoing to determine the full extent of the alleged violations and identify others who may have been involved in illegal activities.

The BI, Luzon said, has yet to announce if deportation proceedings or additional charges will be filed against the foreign nationals pending completion of the investigation.

Davao Light takes over power distribution in 4 Davao del Norte areas

By Ivy Tejano

Published May 26, 2026 11:28 pm

DAVAO CITY – Davao Light and Power Co. Inc. (Davao Light) officially assumed electricity distribution services in Tagum City and three municipalities in Davao del Norte starting Tuesday, May 26.

Davao Light president and chief operations officer Enriczar Tia said the areas covered by the Supplemental Writ of Possession include Tagum City and the municipalities of Kapalong, New Corella, and Talaingod.

The takeover covers full operation and maintenance, new service applications, billing and collection, and other customer services.

The sheriff of the Regional Trial Court Branch 2 in Tagum City on Monday implemented the Supplemental Writ of Possession granting Davao Light authority to assume control and begin serving the four areas.

"This marks another major step in the transition of electricity distribution operations in Davao del Norte under Republic Act (RA) No. 12144," Tia said.

RA No. 12144, enacted on April 6, 2025, expanded Davao Light's legislative franchise to include Tagum City, the Island Garden City of Samal, and 19 municipalities across Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro.

The Supplemental Writ of Possession is based on the May 15, 2026 Order of the Court affirming Davao Light's lawful right to expropriate the entire distribution system in Davao del Norte previously operated by the Northern Davao Electric Cooperative Inc. (NORDECO).

"Beginning May 26, electricity consumption in these areas will be billed by Davao Light," Tia added.

He assured that the company is working to ensure stable and reliable electricity service for customers in the covered areas.

"We remain hopeful for the cooperation and coordination of NORDECO to help ensure a safe, orderly, and uninterrupted transition process for consumers and communities." (With PNA)

Rabat named PDP-Laban city council president

 

By Ivy Tejano

RABAT and Duterte (FB)

Former Mati City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat was sworn in as city council president of the Partido ng Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan, strengthening the party’s presence in Davao Oriental ahead of the 2028 elections.

Rabat took her oath on Friday, May 22, before PDP-Laban President and Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte in a ceremony attended by local party leaders and supporters at Matina Enclaves in Davao City.

Following her induction, Rabat officially aligned herself with PDP-Laban and expressed support for the emerging political plans of Vice President Sara Duterte, including a possible presidential bid in 2028.

According to party officials, the event was part of ongoing efforts to consolidate PDP-backed leadership in Mindanao as political preparations for the next national elections begin to take shape.

Photos from the ceremony showed Rabat with Mayor Duterte and other party members performing the party gesture after her formal acceptance, marking her official entry into the group and showing unity with the party.

Analysts said Rabat’s entry into the PDP-Laban leadership could influence politics in Mati City and nearby areas, especially as discussions about the 2028 presidential race have grown among Duterte supporters.

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.