Proud To Be Dabaweno

I was born and raised in Davao City. If you are not familiar with the place, it is located at the southern part of Philippines specifically in the Province Davao del Sur in Mindanao. It covers 244,000 hectares, the world's largest in terms of land area.

My hometown, Davao City is one of the alluring gateways to our country. Such place is typhoon-free, protected by numbers of mountains (one of those is Mt. Apo, the highest mountain in the country). Being virtually typhoon-free, lightweight clothing is a must.

There are two (2) reasons which make it unique: its people and its warm hospitality. Its population is a mix of tribes from all over the archipelago of the country. Hence, the average Dabaweno can easily converse and understand English and it is fluent in Tagalog and Bisaya or Cebuano.

Close to Davao City is Mt. Apo, the country's highest peak and home of the monkey-eating Philippine Eagle which is considered to be an endagered species, and the Waling-waling, a rare orchid with exceptional beauty.

Davao has become a booming tourist destination for its exquisite beaches where some were converted to be world-class resorts, premium dive sites in the Gulf, exotic flowers and tropical fruits. Leisure activities include golf and diving while eco-adventure activities include mountain biking and trekking the highlands of Mt. Apo.

To highlight some of the tourist spots in Davao, below are the details:

Mt. Apo, a tribal god's abode. Tallest peak at 10,311 ft above sea level. Climbing Mt. Apo takes four (4) days. There are many trails so climbers can have different routes so see more of the place.


Philippine Eagle Nature Center. It is located in Malagos, Calinan and the home of the monkey-eating Philippine Eagle. Such eagle is considered to be the largest eagle, standing to about three and a half feet (3 1/2) and is recognized with its powerful bill, strong legs and claws. More so, this is also a haven for numerous birds, animals and tropical plants.

Crocodile Park. The only crocodile park in the region provides home to locally bred crocodiles including the country's biggest crocodile named "Pangil" measuring eighteen feet (18 f t) in length. One can take pleasure from viewing, horseback riding around the park or feeding the young fierce reptiles.

Eden Mountain Resort. It is known for its cool climate, green forest and natural surroundings overlooking the city and the gulf. Also, it is suitable for camping, nature hiking, horseback riding, and bird watching.

Pearl Farm Beach Resort. A world-class resort lies in a secluded cove in Samal Island off the coast of Davao City. This 11-hectare spread provides houses patterned after the stilt houses of Samal tribes of the Sulu archipelago.


Davao City is known to produce exotic fruits. One of those is Durian. Many say, it smells like hell but tastes like heaven. Other fruits which I believe which are only be seen in Davao are mangosteen, yellow rambutan and marang.

Lastly, such place is known for its discipline. City ordinance prohibits smoking inside public utility vehicles, in government offices and some air-conditioned business establishments. Traffic rules and anti-littering laws are strictly enforced. Drug trafficking is a criminal offense punishable by death. Not to mention, on New Year's Eve, guns shots and dangerous fireworks are strictly not allowed.

There are many other beautiful things I can share about the uniqueness of my hometown. I may have seen other parts of the world but one thing I know, Davao City is still the most beautiful and the best place to live.