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{{Infobox Philippine city | |
{{Infobox Philippine city | |
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infoboxtitle = City of Davao | |
infoboxtitle = City of Davao | |
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website = http://www.davaocity.gov.ph |
website = http://www.davaocity.gov.ph |
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'''Davao City… where business and leisure blend well''' |
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'''Davao City''' is one of the most important cities in the Philippines and the de facto capital of the island of [[Mindanao]]. It is also the largest city in the [[Philippines]] in terms of land area. Its international airport and seaport is one of the busiest cargo hubs in the Southern Philippines. Davao City is also one of several [[cities in the Philippines]] that are independent of any province though it is usually grouped with [[Davao del Sur]] for statistical purposes. The city is also the regional center for [[Davao Region]] (Region XI). It is one of the world's largest cities in terms of land area, occupying more than 2,400 square kilometers. Davao City has a resident population of 1.5 million, with about 2 million people present during daylight hours. |
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Davao City is a sprawling metropolis of 1.5 million people located in the Southeastern part of Mindanao. It is one of the largest cities in the world with a land area of 2,443.61 square kilometers. |
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It is a place blessed with natural advantages. The soil is very fertile and rich in minerals. The city has abundant source of potable water. Located in a typhoon-free zone, its tropical weather is characterized by even distribution of climatic elements all year round. Temperature ranges from 15 to 34˚C. |
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Strategically located in the Asia-Pacific rim, the city serves as a gateway to the world. It is a key player in the flourishing trading hub called the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area or BIMP-EAGA. |
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Davao City is in the southeastern part of Mindanao and is approximately 946 aerial kilometers from Manila. |
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On the west, the city’s boundary line cuts through the highest peak in the country, the inactive Mt. Apo at 3,142 meters above sea level. Cascading from the peak and going east down, one sees vast plains, unspoiled forests, fertile valleys, navigable rivers, the sprawling metropolis and world-class beaches facing the Davao gulf. |
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With predominantly migrant population, the city is a melting pot of cultures where diversities are appreciated and nurtured in a harmonious and peaceful environment. Major languages and dialects in the city are Filipino, Chinese, English and Bisaya. |
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The city has one of the highest literacy rates in Asia at 98.3%. Its labor force is cited as among the best in the region: educated, easily trainable, industrious, and English speaking. |
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As Mindanao’s center of commerce, trade, and services, the city’s modern infrastructures and world-class utilities provide viable support to economic activities. |
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Its urban center is home to quality residential and commercial units complete with modern facilities and amenities at very reasonable prices. Access is fast and easy to utilities such as power, water, landlines and mobile phones with IDD features, cable TV networks, and Internet service providers. |
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Considered by many as the de facto capital of Mindanao, the City’s strategic position provides accessibility and linkage to the 20 million market of Mindanao and the 51.4 million market of the East ASEAN Growth Area. |
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Davao is a place of perfect balance. It is fast-paced yet relaxed where the luxuries of cosmopolitan living complement the breathtaking beauty of the great outdoors. |
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Davao City is an investment haven, a place of perfect balance... where business and pleasure blend so well. |
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==History== |
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'''DAVAO CITY: ON THE MOVE TO PROGRESS''' |
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Davao City: Then and Now is a story of a community carved out of the wilderness over a period of years. It deals with the community’s early history (even before it was created into a city); government organizations; economic conditions; social organizations; and cultural communities with unique people, having their own peculiar personalities, progressing in all directions and projecting their own identity as Davaoeños. |
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When the Spaniards came in 1848, they saw a community of Bagobos, Mandayas, B’laan, Mansakas, Manobos, Atas, Tagacaolos, Guiangan and the Moros. Oyanguren and his group built a Christian settlement and a small chapel which was named Nueva Vergara in honor of Oyanguren’s hometown in Spain. In 1858, a military government was established in Nueva Vergara and was named the fourth district of Mindanao. Since that time on, Nueva Vergara became known by its native name, Davao. It was recorded in 1890 that Davao had a total number of 30,000 inhabitants, only 30 percent of which were Christians. |
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The economic condition of the people did not improve at all during the Spanish regime. Although Davao had a great economic potential, no industry was developed. There was no significant economic activity established then. |
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The American occupation started with the arrival in 1890 of Major Hunter Ligget. This gave birth to a Military administration. It was during the early years of this period that Davao was noticed as having a rich potential in agriculture development. |
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According to the [[2000]] census, it has a population of 1,147,116 people in 240,057 households. |
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Even before the outbreak of World War II, Davao was home to a big population of Japanese migrant workers who contributed much to the economic advancement of Davao through the development of vast abaca plantations used in the processing of hemp. Other agricultural crops include coffee, rubber, and cotton. |
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It is currently one of the centers of [[Business process outsourcing in the Philippines|BPO operations]] in the Philippines. The city is projected to earn at least US$5 billion in annual revenue by 2010, according a CITEM report. |
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In recent years, the sprawling urban metropolis has emerged as the business, investment and tourism hub for southern Philippines. The city boasts some of the finest beach and mountain resorts in the country, and proximity to the Philippines’ most captivating diving spots as well as its highest peak, Mt Apo. |
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'''1936: THE CREATION OF THE CITY''' |
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==HISTORY== |
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Local [[historians]] claim that the word ''davao'' came from the [[phonetic]] blending of the word of three [[Bagobo]] subgroups when referring to [[Davao River]], an essential waterway which empties itself into Davao Gulf near the city. The [[Indigenous peoples|aboriginal]] Obos who inhabit the [[hinterlands]] of the region called the [[river]], ''Davoh''; the Clatta or Guiangans called it ''Duhwow'', or ''Davau'', and the Tagabawa Bagobos, ''Dabu''. To the Obos, the word ''davoh'' also means a place "''beyond the high grounds''", alluding to the settlements located at the mouth of Davao River which were surrounded by high rolling [[hills]]. When asked where they were going, the usual reply is ''davoh'', while pointing towards the direction of the town. Duhwow also refers to a trading settlement where they barter their forest goods in exchange for salt or other commodities. |
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Davao was created as a city when then Assemblyman Romualdo C. Quimpo of Davao sponsored a bill in Congress in March 16, 1936, making Davao a chartered city. The said bill was signed into law by President Manuel L. Quezon on October 16, 1936. The formal inauguration was held on March 1, 1937. |
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Spanish influence was hardly felt in the Davao until 1847, when an expedition led by ''Don Jose Uyanguren'' came to establish a Christian settlement in an area of mangrove swamps that is now Bolton Riverside. Davao was then ruled by a Moro chieftain, ''Datu Bago'', who held his settlement at the banks of Davao River (once called Tagloc River by the Bagobos). After Uyanguren defeated Datu Bago, he renamed the region Nueva Guipozcoa, in honor of his home in [[Spain]], and became its first governor. Oyanguren's efforts to develop the area, however, did not prosper. |
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The coming of the Japanese in 1941 brought fear among Davaoeños, and because of which, a big population evacuated to the outskirts of the city. When peace and order was re-establsihed under the terms of Mayors Alfonso Oboza and Donato Endriga, most evacuees came back to the poblacion. Davaoeños were then engaged in “buy and sell”, farming and government employment. Schools in the city were opened and the Nippongo language was taught to the students, side by side with the National Language and English. However, only few students attended classes. Life was not in normal condition due to the atrocities committed by Japanese soldiers. |
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A few years after the [[United States|American]] forces landed in 1900, private farm ownership grew and transportation and communication facilities were improved, thus paving the way for the region's economic growth. |
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After the Second World War, Davao staged its march to progress. The principal industries then were logging, copra, banana, corn, abaca, ramie, mining, and fishing. When the logging industry declined, banana production took over as the leading export product. |
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A Japanese entrepreneur named ''Kichisaburo Ohta'' was granted permission to exploit vast territories which he transformed into [[abacá]] and [[coconut]] plantations. The first wave of Japanese plantation workers came onto its shores in 1903, creating a [[Japan]] [[kuo]], or Little Japan. They had their own [[school]], [[newspapers]], an [[embassy]], and even a [[Shinto]] Shrine. On the whole, they established extensive abaca plantations around the shores of Davao Gulf and developed large-scale commercial interests such as copra, timber, fishing and import-export trading. Filipinos learned the techniques of improved cultivation from the Japanese so that ultimately, agriculture became the lifeblood of the province's economic prosperity. |
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The rest of the 80’s and the early part of the 90’s saw a vibrant and dynamic Davao City teeming with economic developments as investments poured into the city due to favorable business climate brought about by its natural advantages and the peace and order condition. |
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From then on, Davao was recognized as the center of commerce and trade in Mindanao. Industrial and commercial establishments did business domestically and internationally. |
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Today, Davao City is caught in the vast sweep of urbanization that it is but proper for all Davaoeños, be they natives or migrants, to be proud of Davao City as one of the fastest growing cities in the Philippines. |
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Davao was formally inaugurated as a [[chartered city]] on [[March 1]], [[1937]] by President [[Manuel L. Quezon]]. Thirty years later, Davao was subdivided into three independent [[provinces]], namely [[Davao del Norte]], [[Davao del Sur]], and [[Davao Oriental]]. Over the years, Davao has become an ethnic melting pot as it continues to draw migrants from all over the country, lured by the prospects of striking it rich in the country's third largest city. |
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==Economy== |
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Like the rest of the country, Davao City operates on an economic system that is market-oriented, although pricing mechanisms remain regulated in a few sectors (particularly on basic commodities) to protect consumers. |
Like the rest of the country, Davao City operates on an economic system that is market-oriented, although pricing mechanisms remain regulated in a few sectors (particularly on basic commodities) to protect consumers. |
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Along with flourishing investments and exports, the low inflation rate serve as concrete illustration of the remarkable gains from Davao City’s sustained competitiveness nurtured by high level of responsiveness of the local government which put priority focus in facilitating business-friendly initiatives and in ensuring a peaceful and prosperous environment. |
Along with flourishing investments and exports, the low inflation rate serve as concrete illustration of the remarkable gains from Davao City’s sustained competitiveness nurtured by high level of responsiveness of the local government which put priority focus in facilitating business-friendly initiatives and in ensuring a peaceful and prosperous environment. |
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==Trade and Industry Profile== |
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In 2004, Davao City will be the first site of an international call center in the island owing to the high acceptability of its human resources to the demands of a call center as well as to the viability of the location itself for BPO (business process outsourcing) operations. |
In 2004, Davao City will be the first site of an international call center in the island owing to the high acceptability of its human resources to the demands of a call center as well as to the viability of the location itself for BPO (business process outsourcing) operations. |
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The city is also envisioned in the near future to become the educational and medical center of the BIMP-EAGA (the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area). |
The city is also envisioned in the near future to become the educational and medical center of the BIMP-EAGA (the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area). |
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==Geography== |
==Geography== |
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The current mayor of Davao City is [[Rodrigo Duterte]], a former government [[prosecutor]] and [[congressman]]. He is assisted by city vice-mayor [[Luis Bonguyan]]. |
The current mayor of Davao City is [[Rodrigo Duterte]], a former government [[prosecutor]] and [[congressman]]. He is assisted by city vice-mayor [[Luis Bonguyan]]. |
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==Culture and Heritage== |
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Easy assimilation is an integral essence of multi-cultural Davao. Being a chartered city, it has grown appreciating differences in culture and tradition by numerous ethnic groups that integrated easily to the local tribes already present during its infancy as a city. |
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Like most cities in the country, Catholics largely populate Davao. Christian churches and chapels dot the city’s landscape along with some temples, mosques, and other places of worship. |
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Another Spanish influence that remains up to this day is the observance and celebration of barrios (or villages) of the day of their respective patron saint called “Fiesta”. It is in these celebrations wherein songs, dances and other forms of arts and merrymaking from various cultures have evolved creatively into the sights and sounds of Davao now. Such showcases point to its ultimate climax as the celebration of all celebrations - the weeklong Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival. |
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==Accessibility== |
==Accessibility== |
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The [[Davao International Airport]] is the busiest airport in Mindanao. Expansion and modernization began in 1998. Today, the new DIA (opened in December 2003) has begun accommodating wider-bodied jets such as the [[Boeing 747]]. |
The [[Davao International Airport]] is the busiest airport in Mindanao. Expansion and modernization began in 1998. Today, the new DIA (opened in December 2003) has begun accommodating wider-bodied jets such as the [[Boeing 747]]. |
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Construction of more [[roads]] and [[bridges]] are also underway. The construction of the City’s third major road - the Buhangin underpass was completed in the 1st quarter of 2003. A Traffic Management and Computerization Scheme was also implemented. Davao City is ranked no. 5 among cities in [[Asia]] with better traffic flow based on vehicles per kilometer of city road. |
Construction of more [[roads]] and [[bridges]] are also underway. The construction of the City’s third major road - the Buhangin underpass was completed in the 1st quarter of 2003. A 504 Million massive Vehicular Interchange, the city's third vehicular overpass on the intersection of Bangkal and Ulas has commenced construction. A Traffic Management and Computerization Scheme was also implemented. Davao City is ranked no. 5 among cities in [[Asia]] with better traffic flow based on vehicles per kilometer of city road. |
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Presently, there are 2 government seaports (the Sasa Wharf and the Sta. Ana Pier) and 9 privately owned ports. The City Government is currently in the process of taking over the management of the seaports to modernize facilities and expand capacity. In addition, the city has a fish port called the Toril Fish Port Complex to accommodate small and large-scale fishing activities as well as provide among others cold-storage facilities. |
Presently, there are 2 government seaports (the Sasa Wharf and the Sta. Ana Pier) and 9 privately owned ports. The City Government is currently in the process of taking over the management of the seaports to modernize facilities and expand capacity. In addition, the city has a fish port called the Toril Fish Port Complex to accommodate small and large-scale fishing activities as well as provide among others cold-storage facilities. |
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3. University of Mindanao |
3. University of Mindanao |
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4. University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) |
4. University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) |
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5. University of SouthEastern Philippines |
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5. San Pedro College |
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6. Brokenshire College |
6. Brokenshire College |
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7. Davao Doctors College |
7. Davao Doctors College |
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8. San Pedro College |
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8. University of SouthEastern Philippines |
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9. Philippine Wowen's College |
9. Philippine Wowen's College |
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10.Assumption College of Davao |
10.Assumption College of Davao |
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Use of [[fireworks]] and other similar pyrotechnic materials, as well as [[Tobacco smoking|smoking]], is strictly prohibited in the city. Violators are made to pay hefty fines, perform community service, render jail time or a combination of the three. |
Use of [[fireworks]] and other similar pyrotechnic materials, as well as [[Tobacco smoking|smoking]], is strictly prohibited in the city. Violators are made to pay hefty fines, perform community service, render jail time or a combination of the three. |
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==Achievements and Recognition== |
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'''Most Competitive Metro City in the Philippines, 2001, 2003, 2005''' |
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The Asian Institute of Management has conducted an assessment of the leading Cities in the country using indicators such as quality of life, cost of doing business, dynamism of the local economy, infrastructure, linkages and accessibility, and quality of workforce in the years 2001, 2003, and 2005 (No survey was done in 2002 and 2004) and Davao City topped the rankings in 2001 and 2005 and placed 3rd in 2003. |
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'''Most Livable City in the Philippines''' |
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Based on annual surveys made by Asiaweek on the 40 Best Cities in Asia, Davao City has consistently made it to the Top 20 for four consecutive years (1996-1999). In the survey of livability, Davao City rated high in the following categories: |
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2nd in the least number of criminal cases per 10,000 at 0.8 |
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5th in lesser vehicles per km of city road at 46 vehicles/km |
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6th in the ratio of house price to income at 6.18 |
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14th in lesser volume of suspended particles in the air at 98 ?g/m³ |
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14th in value of state education spending per capita/$ at 410.80 |
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Davao garnered 56 points and ranked 18th. Cebu got 54 points and ranked19th while Manila was in a freefall with 49 points down at 25th. |
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This statistics mean that Davao City has become the Most Livable City in the Philippines. If the survey, which is independently done by Asiaweek, becomes a basis, it could be said that Davao has maintained its quality of livability as a city and is in fact improving on it. |
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'''Destination of the Year, 1997 Kalakbay Awards''' |
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1997 was supposed to be the banner year of Davao City having earned a lot of distinctions in the national arena. Aside from being chosen as the Destination of the Year by the Kalakbay Awards, tourism facilities within the city were also recognized with the highest honors in their respective categories such as Hotel of the Year for Villa Margarita and Restaurant of the Year for Annies Restaurant. |
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'''Most Child-friendly City in the Philippines, 1999, 2000''' |
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In the first ever selection of the Most Child-Friendly City in the Philippines, Davao City came out the runaway choice for the top plum owing to its local government’s programs and initiatives directly benefiting its children. |
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Davao City stood out because it is the first local government unit to have passed a Code specifically designed for the welfare of the children and their rights to services, Protection, and other privileges - this is the Davao City Children’s Welfare Code of 1994. |
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Aside from the regular social welfare programs being implemented by the City Social Services and Development Office, the local government works closely with non-government agencies that implements programs for children. |
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The Davao City Government also got high marks because of its implementation of the child welfare and protection programs under the Country Program for Children – UNICEF. |
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'''Most Outstanding Regional Peace and Order Council, 1999, 2001, 2004, 2005''' |
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The quest for peace has become very expensive and very elusive in some isolated parts of Mindanao. However, there is one region where peace has become a price possession that its leaders never want such ideal condition slip out from their hands – the Region XI Peace and Order Council was chosen as the Most Outstanding Regional Peace and Order Council for their unrelenting efforts in maintaining peace and order in Southern Mindanao or Region XI. |
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'''Most Peaceful City in East and Southeast Asia, 1998-2005''' |
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One of the biggest come-ons of an area is an ideal peace and order condition. The dramatic decrease of crime rate in Davao City is big deal considering that it used to have a very unstable peace and order during the Marcos’ regime that ended in a bloodless revolution in February 1986. |
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Since then, peace and order has never been more ideal. In fact, it improves year after year thanks to a people who will not let peace slip away like a prized possession. |
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From a 3-digit crime rate per 10,000 people in 1985, Davao has reached an almost Utopian environment with a monthly crime volume of 0.8 cases per 10,000 persons from 1999 up to 2005. Digging through the records, it would reveal that about 90% of these cases reported are petty crimes that do not in any way threaten the over-all peace and order condition of the city. |
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'''Best Police Office in the Country, 1999-2005''' |
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Annually, the Philippine National Police conducts an evaluation of the Best Police Offices in the Country. They will be evaluated and ranked according to the ratio of policemen against the population of the area, implementation of programs for maintenance of peace and order, availability of sophisticated equipment and vehicles, the ratio of solved crimes against the total number of crimes reported and the overall safeguarding of the peace and order condition of the area. |
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'''2nd place, LGU Literacy Award in the Philippines, 1999''' |
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This award is given to local government units that seek to improve literacy within their area through programs that will ensure the establishment of learning institutions even in the most remote rural areas. Davao City ranked a close second in this competition having registered one of the highest literacy rates in the country and in Southeast Asia at 98.05%. |
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'''2nd Best City Health Office in the Philippines, 1999''' |
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Vaccines, medicines, and clinical and medical services may cost much nowadays. A local government unit should see to it that medical services are affordable if not given for free especially to rural folks and the urban poor. In this area of recognition, the local Government of Davao again ranked a close second in operating a City Health Office that delivers free and or very affordable services to its constituents aside from implementing health programs that focuses on prevention of sickness and illnesses. |
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'''The Cleanest and Greenest City in the Philippines, 1999-2005 |
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(Highly urbanized category)''' |
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For almost a decade, Davao City ranked Second Cleanest and Greenest City in the Philippines. Visitors cannot but help notice that the city’s roads are indeed clean day and night and the parks are eternally green with trees and ornamentals. But the top plum seems slippery because of an open dumpsite located along its diversion road. |
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Now, the City is considered the Cleanest and Greenest in the Philippines |
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(For the highly urbanized category) |
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'''Most Outstanding Water Utility in Asia, 1996, 1997, 1998 |
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(Awarded in Singapore to Davao City Water District)''' |
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This recognition was given to four water utilities in Asia, and Davao City’s water district is one of them. The Davao City Water District has through the years supplied quality potable water to residents of the city. |
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The need to deliver quality service is equally complemented by the natural abundance of fresh and potable water supply, which contributes to the quality of life in the City. Around 90% of the City’s water supply is taken from a more than 30 wells while the remaining 10% is treated surface water. |
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The Davao City Water District (DCWD) has made piped water system available to about 70% of the population. This figure may be surprisingly low for people expecting a highly urbanized city. However, a visit to the City will show that hundreds of natural wells and other natural sources of spring water abound in the City, particularly in areas near the foot of the highest peak in the country, the Mt. Apo. |
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==Titles and Monikers== |
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'''Orchid Capital of the Philippines''' |
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There are beautifully vivid reasons why Davao is called a “City in Bloom”. Aside from the presence of vast plantations and garden resorts that grow rare and exotic orchids and ornamentals, the City is specifically known among florists all over the world for its famous waling-waling, considered as one of the most beautiful orchids. |
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The Waling-waling or vanda sanderana grows in natural abundance in its territory, at the foot of Mt. Apo. Orchids just love to grow majestically in the City because of its typhoon-free weather. Add to that the fact that the city has more than 1,000 square kilometers of lush tropical forest (or about 47% of its total land area) that provided an environment conducive for rare plants to thrive and flourish. Another factor is the rich fertile soil of the city that can virtually make every wind-blown seed grow and bear fruit even without the benefit of human intervention. Virtually, all ingredients are present for Davao City to blossom and bloom magically like the waling-waling. All these factors contributed to the eventual declaration of Davao City as the official “Orchid Capital of the Philippines” as declared by then President Corazon Aquino. |
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'''Fruit Basket of the Philippines- the City of Durianburg''' |
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The freshest tropical fruits are always ripe for the picking in a City called Fruit Basket of the Philippines. Whether you’ll go for the juiciest watermelon, the sweetest mango, the more succulent pomelo, rambutan, or go subtly fruit ferocious with banana, mangosteen, lanzones, strawberry, pineapple, avocado, langka, buko, or simply settle with a bowl of fresh fruit salad to end the long list, whatever fibrous or juicy fruits you have in mind, you’ll definitely have your fill in Davao City. |
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Orchards and fruit plantations continually make the city livable if only for its produce of the freshest fruits giving visitors a glimpse of what it would be like in the Garden of Eden with the exotic Durian (the King of the Fruits or the Fruit of the Gods) serving as the fruit of good and evil with its strong aroma (or pungent odor) overpowered by its heavenly taste which you would not want to exchange for anything. Come to the City of Durianburg and partake of the glorious delights of fruits made in the heavenly realms. |
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'''Home of the Great Bird of Asia –Soaring high in the new millennium''' |
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No one in the early 80’s would have thought that Davao, like its symbol and icon- the Philippine eagle, would soar to new heights in the new millennium. No one ever thought too that the mighty Philippine Eagle (pithecophaga jefferyi) considered as the 2nd largest eagle in the world and threaten for extinction as early as the 70’s, would have survived the onslaught of denudation and other factors that continually threaten its natural habitat – the forest. |
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Thanks mainly to joint efforts of concern government and non-government organizations, captive breeding of this great bird of Asia has resulted to the birth of more than a dozen eagles (hatched in captivity) and we have welcomed the new millennium with them still lording the skies over the forest and vegetation around Mt. Apo. |
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The Philippine Eagle is a faithful mate. It has been observed that this bird usually prefers a monogamous lifestyle. It usually builds its nest on towering tropical trees about 80 feet above the ground (sufficient enough for it to have a good view over its territory). |
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Philippine Eagles breed between August and January, do aerial courtships and mate in or near their nest. The female lays one egg every two years and both parents alternately incubate the egg for about 60 days until it hatches. The eaglet fledges within 150 days and becomes independent at 18 months at which time the parents drive it out of their 60 to 100 kilometer radius territories. |
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With its habitat dwindling due to illegal logging, the Philippine Eagle Foundation, Inc. was organized in 1987 to implement programs such as captive breeding management, field research, community-based enterprise development, and conservation education. |
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'''Convention Center of the Philippine South''' |
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With more convention and exhibition centers being established that have complemented other excellent tourism facilities, Davao City has steadily positioned itself as the Convention Center of the Philippine South in the 21st century. |
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Since 1990, it has steadily become the preferred destination for conventions and conferences. This could be attributed to the ever changing and ever improving economic and tourism landscape of the city, which attracted organizers to conduct major conventions here instead of proverbial settings like Manila or Cebu. |
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Modern, sophisticated, and state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for conventions and conferences are now readily available. This is equally complemented by the establishment of new first class hotels and mountain resorts bringing the number of hotel rooms from around 500 in 1980 to over 2,500 in 1999. Yet, the demand for more hotel rooms is projected to increase now that the City has more tourism products, services, and facilities to offer. |
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'''Gateway to the East ASEAN''' |
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Davao City, the birthplace of the East ASEAN Growth Area (or EAGA), is also your gateway to this emerging polygon of power. The EAGA was formed mainly because the areas that comprised it (Mindanao and Palawan for the Philippines, Brunei, Manado and North Sulawesi of Indonesia, and Sabah for Malaysia) used to be a trading bloc during the 12th century up to the 15th century where people enjoyed borderless economies with barter trading as the most common economic practice. Centuries of colonialism, imperialism and the establishment of governments within the chain of islands halted the exchanges. |
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In 1994, government representatives and businessmen from these areas have gathered together in Davao City for the biggest convention ever held in the region to formally signal the birth of the newest trading bloc in Asia, the BIMP-EAGA. In the heart of this formation is Davao City, which paved the way for the re-establishment of cooperation between the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia to advance the free movement of people, goods, services, and improve cultural and economic ties within the said sub-regional trade bloc. |
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Through these developments, direct air and sea linkages to the islands have been established making Davao City your gateway to the East ASEAN growth area. |
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==Tourist spots== |
==Tourist spots== |
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Revision as of 22:20, 16 July 2006
 | The neutrality of this article is disputed. |
Template:Infobox Philippine city Davao City… where business and leisure blend well
Davao City is a sprawling metropolis of 1.5 million people located in the Southeastern part of Mindanao. It is one of the largest cities in the world with a land area of 2,443.61 square kilometers.
It is a place blessed with natural advantages. The soil is very fertile and rich in minerals. The city has abundant source of potable water. Located in a typhoon-free zone, its tropical weather is characterized by even distribution of climatic elements all year round. Temperature ranges from 15 to 34˚C.
Strategically located in the Asia-Pacific rim, the city serves as a gateway to the world. It is a key player in the flourishing trading hub called the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area or BIMP-EAGA.
Davao City is in the southeastern part of Mindanao and is approximately 946 aerial kilometers from Manila.
On the west, the city’s boundary line cuts through the highest peak in the country, the inactive Mt. Apo at 3,142 meters above sea level. Cascading from the peak and going east down, one sees vast plains, unspoiled forests, fertile valleys, navigable rivers, the sprawling metropolis and world-class beaches facing the Davao gulf.
With predominantly migrant population, the city is a melting pot of cultures where diversities are appreciated and nurtured in a harmonious and peaceful environment. Major languages and dialects in the city are Filipino, Chinese, English and Bisaya.
The city has one of the highest literacy rates in Asia at 98.3%. Its labor force is cited as among the best in the region: educated, easily trainable, industrious, and English speaking.
As Mindanao’s center of commerce, trade, and services, the city’s modern infrastructures and world-class utilities provide viable support to economic activities.
Its urban center is home to quality residential and commercial units complete with modern facilities and amenities at very reasonable prices. Access is fast and easy to utilities such as power, water, landlines and mobile phones with IDD features, cable TV networks, and Internet service providers.
Considered by many as the de facto capital of Mindanao, the City’s strategic position provides accessibility and linkage to the 20 million market of Mindanao and the 51.4 million market of the East ASEAN Growth Area.
Davao is a place of perfect balance. It is fast-paced yet relaxed where the luxuries of cosmopolitan living complement the breathtaking beauty of the great outdoors.
Davao City is an investment haven, a place of perfect balance... where business and pleasure blend so well.
History
DAVAO CITY: ON THE MOVE TO PROGRESS
Davao City: Then and Now is a story of a community carved out of the wilderness over a period of years. It deals with the community’s early history (even before it was created into a city); government organizations; economic conditions; social organizations; and cultural communities with unique people, having their own peculiar personalities, progressing in all directions and projecting their own identity as Davaoeños.
When the Spaniards came in 1848, they saw a community of Bagobos, Mandayas, B’laan, Mansakas, Manobos, Atas, Tagacaolos, Guiangan and the Moros. Oyanguren and his group built a Christian settlement and a small chapel which was named Nueva Vergara in honor of Oyanguren’s hometown in Spain. In 1858, a military government was established in Nueva Vergara and was named the fourth district of Mindanao. Since that time on, Nueva Vergara became known by its native name, Davao. It was recorded in 1890 that Davao had a total number of 30,000 inhabitants, only 30 percent of which were Christians.
The economic condition of the people did not improve at all during the Spanish regime. Although Davao had a great economic potential, no industry was developed. There was no significant economic activity established then.
The American occupation started with the arrival in 1890 of Major Hunter Ligget. This gave birth to a Military administration. It was during the early years of this period that Davao was noticed as having a rich potential in agriculture development.
Even before the outbreak of World War II, Davao was home to a big population of Japanese migrant workers who contributed much to the economic advancement of Davao through the development of vast abaca plantations used in the processing of hemp. Other agricultural crops include coffee, rubber, and cotton.
1936: THE CREATION OF THE CITY
Davao was created as a city when then Assemblyman Romualdo C. Quimpo of Davao sponsored a bill in Congress in March 16, 1936, making Davao a chartered city. The said bill was signed into law by President Manuel L. Quezon on October 16, 1936. The formal inauguration was held on March 1, 1937.
The coming of the Japanese in 1941 brought fear among Davaoeños, and because of which, a big population evacuated to the outskirts of the city. When peace and order was re-establsihed under the terms of Mayors Alfonso Oboza and Donato Endriga, most evacuees came back to the poblacion. Davaoeños were then engaged in “buy and sell”, farming and government employment. Schools in the city were opened and the Nippongo language was taught to the students, side by side with the National Language and English. However, only few students attended classes. Life was not in normal condition due to the atrocities committed by Japanese soldiers.
After the Second World War, Davao staged its march to progress. The principal industries then were logging, copra, banana, corn, abaca, ramie, mining, and fishing. When the logging industry declined, banana production took over as the leading export product.
The rest of the 80’s and the early part of the 90’s saw a vibrant and dynamic Davao City teeming with economic developments as investments poured into the city due to favorable business climate brought about by its natural advantages and the peace and order condition.
From then on, Davao was recognized as the center of commerce and trade in Mindanao. Industrial and commercial establishments did business domestically and internationally.
Today, Davao City is caught in the vast sweep of urbanization that it is but proper for all Davaoeños, be they natives or migrants, to be proud of Davao City as one of the fastest growing cities in the Philippines.
Economy
Like the rest of the country, Davao City operates on an economic system that is market-oriented, although pricing mechanisms remain regulated in a few sectors (particularly on basic commodities) to protect consumers.
The competitiveness of the market has been enhanced through the dismantling of protection for "infant industries" and the breakdown of industries with monopolistic or cartel tendencies.
On the international front, the economy has been opened up to global competition, through a tariff reduction program and the loosening of restrictions on inward foreign investment.
The result is a diverse economy, featuring a sound mix between the agricultural (roughly 45%), industrial (15%) and service (at around 35%) industries.
Poverty reduction has become the main goal of the local government which is being addressed through programs and projects one of which is the encouragement of inward investments to industries that are labor-intensive.
Fortunately for Davao, private investments has Davao City’s economy is steadily growing in the last two decades. The City has shifted counting investments from millions in the 80s to billions in the 90s and up to the present millennium.
Among Asian cities, Davao has maintained its competitive position in attracting investments and in penetrating new foreign markets owing to its resilient exports base, peaceful business climate, better quality of life, and rich pool of skilled workforce.
With 1.5-Million people as primary market base, the city is conducive to business as evidenced by the presence of the country’s top 200 companies.
Inflow of investments has been remarkable in the last ten years. Export in the City is now billion dollar industry with a growing niche market for its products.
The stable banana and flourishing pineapple industries are among the country’s leading export commodities. A net exporter since 1987, Davao City largely contributed in making the Philippines as the world’s top 3 banana exporter.
Primarily an agricultural area, almost all kinds of fruits thrive in Davao including the exotic Durian. Other major agriculture-based exports are pomelo, mango, coconut, papaya, mangoosten, and even flowers.
The productive linkages between established businesses and Davao City community reinforced the competitive quality of life in a city that has consistently maintained single digit inflation rate since 1993.
Along with flourishing investments and exports, the low inflation rate serve as concrete illustration of the remarkable gains from Davao City’s sustained competitiveness nurtured by high level of responsiveness of the local government which put priority focus in facilitating business-friendly initiatives and in ensuring a peaceful and prosperous environment.
Trade and Industry Profile
General Structure
Davao City, as one of the major cities in the Republic of the Philippines, adheres to the principle of free enterprise and recognizes the indispensable role of the private sector in economic development.
Among the structural reforms initiated in the national level are liberalization of imports, deregulation of vital industries, relaxations of investment rules, and privatization of government-owned or controlled corporations.
On the other hand, business organizations in the City are preparing for the onslaught of market globalization by becoming outward looking and by adopting cost-effective measures to become globally competitive.
Trade Policy
A comprehensive tariff reform program has reduced tariff rates from an average nominal tariff of 27.84% i 1990 to 6.49% in 2004, and most products are now subject to a 0% to 5% tariff band. The downward trend is set to continue, although at a more gradual pace than before.
As a protective measure, the Philippines does retain higher tariff rates (20% to 50%) on sensitive agricultural products such as grains, livestock and meat products, sugar, certain vegetables, and coffee. A few agricultural commodities are subject to minimum access volumes, but these represent less than 1% of all tariff lines.
The Philippines also imposes dumping and countervailing duties on imports if necessary to counteract unfair trade practices, and may impose safeguard measures against increased imports that may cause serious injury to domestic industries and producers.
Agriculture
One of the two biggest industries of the City is agriculture (the other one being the services sector). Much of Davao’s economic strength is in agriculture wherein it serves as a major supplier of agricultural products and raw materials to the local and export market. It is very strong in the production of fruits (reason for it being called the Fruit Basket of the Philippines) as well as vegetables and other high value crops (with the exception of rice).
Manufacturing
Davao City promotes investments in light to medium manufacturing. Being the drop-off point of agricultural produce and other raw materials of nearby provinces, the opportunity for value adding has spurred growth in the food manufacturing sector as well as in other related industries.
Based on statistics, the City’s contributions to the overall growth rate of production value were in food manufacturing, activated carbon, and finished wood products. It is recommended for investors to look into food processing, canning, cutflower production, and manufacture of footwear, gifts, toys, and house wares.
Construction
The City Government of Davao with the assistance of the national government has vigorously pursued construction projects in line with its economic growth program. It has also made tie-ups as well as joint venture projects (under BOT) with the private sector in pursuit of its flagship projects. Lined-up projects are the following: 23km coastal road, light rail transit system, farm-to-market roads, and the Davao City Sports Complex.
Utilities
Davao City relies on hydropower being commercially distributed in the city by the Davao Light and Power Company (which buys its energy source from the National Power Corporation). In the event of trip-offs, Davao Light automatically runs its back-up generators (diesel-based power generation plant) for a continued supply of electricity.
Although hydropower-based electricity is relatively cheap, the Department of Energy still urges investors to look into other sources of power that are also very available but remains untapped in the area.
Potable water in Davao City (touted as one of the best potable waters based on a study by the American Waterworks Association) is being supplied by the Davao City Water District. 90% of total annual production is groundwater and the remaining is surfaced treated water.
Telecommunications’ breakthroughs in the late 90’s made life in Davao a lot better. With the availability of very affordable mobile phones (mostly prepaid all-in digital phone kits which can go as low as P3, 000 /kit or US$ 60/kit) backlog in the telephone industry was substantiated.
Deregulation and the entry of a number of new players in the telecom industry translated into a better and affordable service to the consumers. It is then no wonder why the Philippines is considered as the texting (short message service price at 1 peso per message sent) capital of the world.
Services in General
Davao City (and the Philippines, as a whole) has a competitive edge in the export of consultancy services in the field of (1) information technology, (2) computer software services, (3) consultancy engineering, and (4) contracting services.
Davao City in particular is the service capital of Mindanao due mainly to the fact that it is the island’s center of trade, commerce, education, and tourism.
In 2004, Davao City will be the first site of an international call center in the island owing to the high acceptability of its human resources to the demands of a call center as well as to the viability of the location itself for BPO (business process outsourcing) operations.
The city is also envisioned in the near future to become the educational and medical center of the BIMP-EAGA (the Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area).
Geography
Total land area of Davao City is 2,443.61 square kilometers. In terms of land area, it is considered as one of the largest cities in the world. It is divided into 3 congressional districts with barangays (smallest political villages) totaling to 184.
Almost 50% of its total land area is classified as timberland or forest. Agriculture utilizes about 43%. This is reflective of the fact that agriculture is still the largest economic sector. Big plantations that produce banana, pineapple, coffee, and coconut eat up a large chunk of the total land area.
Presently, built-up areas used for residential, institutional, commercial, and industrial purposes represent about 10% of the total land area. Under the approved land use plan built-up and settlement area will cover 15% of the total area while agricultural will be maximized with 67.19%. The remaining 17.68 will be devoted for forest and conservation.
Davao City is typhoon-free. The city enjoys a weather that remains balmy all year round. It is characterized by a uniform distribution of rainfall, temperature, humidity, and air pressure. It has no pronounced wet or dry season. Weather predictability makes it highly conducive to agro-crop production. Temperature ranges from 20 to 32 degrees Celsius and average rainfall is up to 2,000 mm yearly.
Government
Unique to the local government set-up of the city is the designation of a deputy mayor by the city mayor. Although an appointive official only, the deputy mayor serves as a direct link to the city mayor especially for people living outside the city proper. The deputy mayor also serves as the city mayor's representative in community events. The functions of the position is considered as complementary to the functions of the city vice-mayor, given the large territorial jurisdiction of the city.
The city is politically subdivided into 184 barangays.
The current mayor of Davao City is Rodrigo Duterte, a former government prosecutor and congressman. He is assisted by city vice-mayor Luis Bonguyan.
Culture and Heritage
Easy assimilation is an integral essence of multi-cultural Davao. Being a chartered city, it has grown appreciating differences in culture and tradition by numerous ethnic groups that integrated easily to the local tribes already present during its infancy as a city.
Like most cities in the country, Catholics largely populate Davao. Christian churches and chapels dot the city’s landscape along with some temples, mosques, and other places of worship.
Another Spanish influence that remains up to this day is the observance and celebration of barrios (or villages) of the day of their respective patron saint called “Fiesta”. It is in these celebrations wherein songs, dances and other forms of arts and merrymaking from various cultures have evolved creatively into the sights and sounds of Davao now. Such showcases point to its ultimate climax as the celebration of all celebrations - the weeklong Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival.
Accessibility
Davao City is very accessible. As the gateway to the Philippine South and the BIMP-EAGA, it has regular air, sea, and land linkages to major points in the country. It is one (1) hour and 40 minutes away from Manila (the country’s capital) by plane and only 30 minutes away from Cebu City. It has daily flights to Singapore, twice weekly flights to Manado, Indonesia and thrice weekly flights to Palau. The city can also be accessed from other major cities in the Philippines by air such as Zamboanga City, Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, Bacolod City and Iloilo City while Cagayan de Oro City, a major city in Northern Mindanao is linked to the city by the scenic Davao-Bukidnon Highway.
Demographics
Bisaya is the most widely spoken language. The Filipino language (Tagalog) comes a close second. English is the medium of instruction in schools and is widely understood and spoken especially in the business community.
The most dominant group is the Roman Catholic at 83.83%, other Christian groups comprise 15% and the remaining 1.17% belongs to other non-Christian faiths (Islam, Buddhism, etc).
Infrastructure
The presence of basic infrastructure within the City such as airport, seaports, roads, bridges, and telecommunications has sustained the economic growth in the last 10 years. Due to the City’s unprecedented growth, a clamor for higher capacity infrastructures resulted to a number of modernization projects now ongoing to meet the demands of the new millennium.
The Davao International Airport is the busiest airport in Mindanao. Expansion and modernization began in 1998. Today, the new DIA (opened in December 2003) has begun accommodating wider-bodied jets such as the Boeing 747.
Construction of more roads and bridges are also underway. The construction of the City’s third major road - the Buhangin underpass was completed in the 1st quarter of 2003. A 504 Million massive Vehicular Interchange, the city's third vehicular overpass on the intersection of Bangkal and Ulas has commenced construction. A Traffic Management and Computerization Scheme was also implemented. Davao City is ranked no. 5 among cities in Asia with better traffic flow based on vehicles per kilometer of city road.
Presently, there are 2 government seaports (the Sasa Wharf and the Sta. Ana Pier) and 9 privately owned ports. The City Government is currently in the process of taking over the management of the seaports to modernize facilities and expand capacity. In addition, the city has a fish port called the Toril Fish Port Complex to accommodate small and large-scale fishing activities as well as provide among others cold-storage facilities.
Communication links within the key business areas are adequate. With the deregulation and privatization policies of the Philippine government, the number of telecommunications player is projected to increase as well as offer affordable telecommunications services to subscribers/clienteles.
Education
The government provides free education at the primary (grade school) and secondary (high school) levels. Government scholars can enjoy free college education in state-run universities such as the University of the Philippines. and the University of SouthEastern Philippines. The literacy rate of the country is 93.9%. Davao City on the other hand has a higher literacy rate at 98.05%.
The city has largely contributed to the country’s ever increasing pool of masters and doctorate degree holders helping the Philippines gained the distinction of having one of the highest numbers of Masters in Business Administration (MBA) graduates in the world.
The city is considered the Center for Learning and Education in the Mindanao Island. Currently, it has 374 elementary schools, 65 secondary schools, and 46 colleges and universities.
Some of the more popular schools in Davao City are: 1. University of the Philippines - Mindanao 2. Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) 3. University of Mindanao 4. University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) 5. University of SouthEastern Philippines 6. Brokenshire College 7. Davao Doctors College 8. San Pedro College 9. Philippine Wowen's College 10.Assumption College of Davao 11. Rizal Memorial Colleges 12. Holy Cross of Davao College 13. St. Peter's College of Toril 14. AMA College - Davao
Medical care
The average life expectancy of Davaoeños is 70 for females and 65 for males. There are about 31 hospitals with a total of 1,763 beds in Davao City. Very affordable medical services are made available to poor residents through the Davao Medical Center, which has the most hospitals beds at 600. On the other hand, hospitals such as the Davao Doctors Hospital, San Pedro Hospital, BrokenShire Memorial Hospital and Davao Medical Center are training hospitals that also offer specialized medical care services. Davao Regional Hospital in the neighboring Tagum City, Davao also offers the same quality specialized physician training and health services.
Psychiatric hospitals, psychotherapy clinics and counselling centers are also found in the city, directed and manned by internationally-trained counselors, psychologists, psychometricians and psychiatrists.
Finance
Currently, there are around 60 banks (excluding branches), 22 financing companies, and 9 lending firms operating in the city. These can handle financial/monetary transactions from the most basic to the most complicated.
CitiBank which is a foreign subsidiary operates in the city while another foreign bank, HSBC is set to open its doors the Davao community within the year.
Automated teller machines (ATM) in the city are hooked up to international card networks such as Visa ELECTRON, VISA, MasterCard, Cirrus and Maestro. On the other hand, major business establishments in the city honor local and international credit cards issued by VISA, MasterCard, JCB, Diners Club and American Express.
Foreign relations
The influx of foreign visitors and the presence of expatriates and migrants in the city have prompted the governments of Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia and the United States to open consular offices in the city.
The US Embassy in the Philippines opened a virtual consulate wherein inquiries on visa issuances, foreign relations concerns and travel to the United States can be made in the Internet by e-mail and chat. The virtual consulate website [1] is maintained in coordination with Ateneo de Davao University.
Media
Aside from the 24 national daily newspapers available, Davao City has also 20 local newspapers, 11 broadcast TV stations, 15 AM-band radio stations, and 25 FM-band radio stations. These numbers reflect the extent of press freedom being enjoyed by the print and broadcast media as well as provide wide range of choice for residents and visitors alike.
Security and civil defense
The city government has invested millions of pesos to ensure the security of people living and working in Davao City. Aside from the usual forces of the Philippine National Police, a special military task force has been formed to insulate the city from terrorist attacks and other forms of criminality. The Task Force Davao, as it is named, is affiliated with the Philippine Army and is headed by an army colonel.
The city government also maintains a 24-hour emergency response system patterned that after the 911 in Canada and the United States. People can dial the 911 number to report emergencies and criminal incidents.
A curfew is also observed in the city. All business establishments, in particular bars and discos, are mandated by a city ordinance to close down at 2:00 AM. On the other hand, motorcycle drivers with no helmets and motorists with defective lights are not allowed to drive within the city proper or to enter the city, if they come from nearby towns and cities. Regular checkpoints in key parts of Davao City and in the city boundaries are conducted 24 hours to ensure the strict implementation of traffic rules.
Use of fireworks and other similar pyrotechnic materials, as well as smoking, is strictly prohibited in the city. Violators are made to pay hefty fines, perform community service, render jail time or a combination of the three.
Achievements and Recognition
Most Competitive Metro City in the Philippines, 2001, 2003, 2005
The Asian Institute of Management has conducted an assessment of the leading Cities in the country using indicators such as quality of life, cost of doing business, dynamism of the local economy, infrastructure, linkages and accessibility, and quality of workforce in the years 2001, 2003, and 2005 (No survey was done in 2002 and 2004) and Davao City topped the rankings in 2001 and 2005 and placed 3rd in 2003.
Most Livable City in the Philippines
Based on annual surveys made by Asiaweek on the 40 Best Cities in Asia, Davao City has consistently made it to the Top 20 for four consecutive years (1996-1999). In the survey of livability, Davao City rated high in the following categories:
2nd in the least number of criminal cases per 10,000 at 0.8 5th in lesser vehicles per km of city road at 46 vehicles/km 6th in the ratio of house price to income at 6.18 14th in lesser volume of suspended particles in the air at 98 ?g/m³ 14th in value of state education spending per capita/$ at 410.80
Davao garnered 56 points and ranked 18th. Cebu got 54 points and ranked19th while Manila was in a freefall with 49 points down at 25th.
This statistics mean that Davao City has become the Most Livable City in the Philippines. If the survey, which is independently done by Asiaweek, becomes a basis, it could be said that Davao has maintained its quality of livability as a city and is in fact improving on it.
Destination of the Year, 1997 Kalakbay Awards
1997 was supposed to be the banner year of Davao City having earned a lot of distinctions in the national arena. Aside from being chosen as the Destination of the Year by the Kalakbay Awards, tourism facilities within the city were also recognized with the highest honors in their respective categories such as Hotel of the Year for Villa Margarita and Restaurant of the Year for Annies Restaurant.
Most Child-friendly City in the Philippines, 1999, 2000
In the first ever selection of the Most Child-Friendly City in the Philippines, Davao City came out the runaway choice for the top plum owing to its local government’s programs and initiatives directly benefiting its children.
Davao City stood out because it is the first local government unit to have passed a Code specifically designed for the welfare of the children and their rights to services, Protection, and other privileges - this is the Davao City Children’s Welfare Code of 1994.
Aside from the regular social welfare programs being implemented by the City Social Services and Development Office, the local government works closely with non-government agencies that implements programs for children.
The Davao City Government also got high marks because of its implementation of the child welfare and protection programs under the Country Program for Children – UNICEF.
Most Outstanding Regional Peace and Order Council, 1999, 2001, 2004, 2005
The quest for peace has become very expensive and very elusive in some isolated parts of Mindanao. However, there is one region where peace has become a price possession that its leaders never want such ideal condition slip out from their hands – the Region XI Peace and Order Council was chosen as the Most Outstanding Regional Peace and Order Council for their unrelenting efforts in maintaining peace and order in Southern Mindanao or Region XI.
Most Peaceful City in East and Southeast Asia, 1998-2005
One of the biggest come-ons of an area is an ideal peace and order condition. The dramatic decrease of crime rate in Davao City is big deal considering that it used to have a very unstable peace and order during the Marcos’ regime that ended in a bloodless revolution in February 1986.
Since then, peace and order has never been more ideal. In fact, it improves year after year thanks to a people who will not let peace slip away like a prized possession.
From a 3-digit crime rate per 10,000 people in 1985, Davao has reached an almost Utopian environment with a monthly crime volume of 0.8 cases per 10,000 persons from 1999 up to 2005. Digging through the records, it would reveal that about 90% of these cases reported are petty crimes that do not in any way threaten the over-all peace and order condition of the city.
Best Police Office in the Country, 1999-2005
Annually, the Philippine National Police conducts an evaluation of the Best Police Offices in the Country. They will be evaluated and ranked according to the ratio of policemen against the population of the area, implementation of programs for maintenance of peace and order, availability of sophisticated equipment and vehicles, the ratio of solved crimes against the total number of crimes reported and the overall safeguarding of the peace and order condition of the area.
2nd place, LGU Literacy Award in the Philippines, 1999
This award is given to local government units that seek to improve literacy within their area through programs that will ensure the establishment of learning institutions even in the most remote rural areas. Davao City ranked a close second in this competition having registered one of the highest literacy rates in the country and in Southeast Asia at 98.05%.
2nd Best City Health Office in the Philippines, 1999
Vaccines, medicines, and clinical and medical services may cost much nowadays. A local government unit should see to it that medical services are affordable if not given for free especially to rural folks and the urban poor. In this area of recognition, the local Government of Davao again ranked a close second in operating a City Health Office that delivers free and or very affordable services to its constituents aside from implementing health programs that focuses on prevention of sickness and illnesses.
The Cleanest and Greenest City in the Philippines, 1999-2005 (Highly urbanized category)
For almost a decade, Davao City ranked Second Cleanest and Greenest City in the Philippines. Visitors cannot but help notice that the city’s roads are indeed clean day and night and the parks are eternally green with trees and ornamentals. But the top plum seems slippery because of an open dumpsite located along its diversion road.
Now, the City is considered the Cleanest and Greenest in the Philippines (For the highly urbanized category)
Most Outstanding Water Utility in Asia, 1996, 1997, 1998
(Awarded in Singapore to Davao City Water District)
This recognition was given to four water utilities in Asia, and Davao City’s water district is one of them. The Davao City Water District has through the years supplied quality potable water to residents of the city.
The need to deliver quality service is equally complemented by the natural abundance of fresh and potable water supply, which contributes to the quality of life in the City. Around 90% of the City’s water supply is taken from a more than 30 wells while the remaining 10% is treated surface water.
The Davao City Water District (DCWD) has made piped water system available to about 70% of the population. This figure may be surprisingly low for people expecting a highly urbanized city. However, a visit to the City will show that hundreds of natural wells and other natural sources of spring water abound in the City, particularly in areas near the foot of the highest peak in the country, the Mt. Apo.
Titles and Monikers
Orchid Capital of the Philippines There are beautifully vivid reasons why Davao is called a “City in Bloom”. Aside from the presence of vast plantations and garden resorts that grow rare and exotic orchids and ornamentals, the City is specifically known among florists all over the world for its famous waling-waling, considered as one of the most beautiful orchids.
The Waling-waling or vanda sanderana grows in natural abundance in its territory, at the foot of Mt. Apo. Orchids just love to grow majestically in the City because of its typhoon-free weather. Add to that the fact that the city has more than 1,000 square kilometers of lush tropical forest (or about 47% of its total land area) that provided an environment conducive for rare plants to thrive and flourish. Another factor is the rich fertile soil of the city that can virtually make every wind-blown seed grow and bear fruit even without the benefit of human intervention. Virtually, all ingredients are present for Davao City to blossom and bloom magically like the waling-waling. All these factors contributed to the eventual declaration of Davao City as the official “Orchid Capital of the Philippines” as declared by then President Corazon Aquino.
Fruit Basket of the Philippines- the City of Durianburg The freshest tropical fruits are always ripe for the picking in a City called Fruit Basket of the Philippines. Whether you’ll go for the juiciest watermelon, the sweetest mango, the more succulent pomelo, rambutan, or go subtly fruit ferocious with banana, mangosteen, lanzones, strawberry, pineapple, avocado, langka, buko, or simply settle with a bowl of fresh fruit salad to end the long list, whatever fibrous or juicy fruits you have in mind, you’ll definitely have your fill in Davao City.
Orchards and fruit plantations continually make the city livable if only for its produce of the freshest fruits giving visitors a glimpse of what it would be like in the Garden of Eden with the exotic Durian (the King of the Fruits or the Fruit of the Gods) serving as the fruit of good and evil with its strong aroma (or pungent odor) overpowered by its heavenly taste which you would not want to exchange for anything. Come to the City of Durianburg and partake of the glorious delights of fruits made in the heavenly realms.
Home of the Great Bird of Asia –Soaring high in the new millennium No one in the early 80’s would have thought that Davao, like its symbol and icon- the Philippine eagle, would soar to new heights in the new millennium. No one ever thought too that the mighty Philippine Eagle (pithecophaga jefferyi) considered as the 2nd largest eagle in the world and threaten for extinction as early as the 70’s, would have survived the onslaught of denudation and other factors that continually threaten its natural habitat – the forest.
Thanks mainly to joint efforts of concern government and non-government organizations, captive breeding of this great bird of Asia has resulted to the birth of more than a dozen eagles (hatched in captivity) and we have welcomed the new millennium with them still lording the skies over the forest and vegetation around Mt. Apo.
The Philippine Eagle is a faithful mate. It has been observed that this bird usually prefers a monogamous lifestyle. It usually builds its nest on towering tropical trees about 80 feet above the ground (sufficient enough for it to have a good view over its territory).
Philippine Eagles breed between August and January, do aerial courtships and mate in or near their nest. The female lays one egg every two years and both parents alternately incubate the egg for about 60 days until it hatches. The eaglet fledges within 150 days and becomes independent at 18 months at which time the parents drive it out of their 60 to 100 kilometer radius territories.
With its habitat dwindling due to illegal logging, the Philippine Eagle Foundation, Inc. was organized in 1987 to implement programs such as captive breeding management, field research, community-based enterprise development, and conservation education.
Convention Center of the Philippine South
With more convention and exhibition centers being established that have complemented other excellent tourism facilities, Davao City has steadily positioned itself as the Convention Center of the Philippine South in the 21st century.
Since 1990, it has steadily become the preferred destination for conventions and conferences. This could be attributed to the ever changing and ever improving economic and tourism landscape of the city, which attracted organizers to conduct major conventions here instead of proverbial settings like Manila or Cebu.
Modern, sophisticated, and state-of-the-art facilities and equipment for conventions and conferences are now readily available. This is equally complemented by the establishment of new first class hotels and mountain resorts bringing the number of hotel rooms from around 500 in 1980 to over 2,500 in 1999. Yet, the demand for more hotel rooms is projected to increase now that the City has more tourism products, services, and facilities to offer.
Gateway to the East ASEAN
Davao City, the birthplace of the East ASEAN Growth Area (or EAGA), is also your gateway to this emerging polygon of power. The EAGA was formed mainly because the areas that comprised it (Mindanao and Palawan for the Philippines, Brunei, Manado and North Sulawesi of Indonesia, and Sabah for Malaysia) used to be a trading bloc during the 12th century up to the 15th century where people enjoyed borderless economies with barter trading as the most common economic practice. Centuries of colonialism, imperialism and the establishment of governments within the chain of islands halted the exchanges.
In 1994, government representatives and businessmen from these areas have gathered together in Davao City for the biggest convention ever held in the region to formally signal the birth of the newest trading bloc in Asia, the BIMP-EAGA. In the heart of this formation is Davao City, which paved the way for the re-establishment of cooperation between the Philippines, Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia to advance the free movement of people, goods, services, and improve cultural and economic ties within the said sub-regional trade bloc.
Through these developments, direct air and sea linkages to the islands have been established making Davao City your gateway to the East ASEAN growth area.
Tourist spots
Battle Memorial – A historical marker of the longest-fought battle between the troops of the American forces and of the Japanese Imperial Army which took place in Mintal, Tugbok District. (Mintal Elementary School)
Camp Domingo Leonor – Quarters of the Spanish and later American soldiers in the 1920s. (San Pedro St.)
City Hall of Davao – The former municipal building constructed in 1926. (San Pedro St.)
Davao Museum – Houses artifacts of Davao's indigenous tribes and photographs of the city's historic events and history of its pioneering families. (Insular Village II, Lanang)
Davao Historical Society Museum – Features the historical and indigenous collections of the Davao Historical Society (Magsaysay Park)
Fort of Datu Bago - Site of the bastion of the Muslim hero Datu Bago who lorded over the Tagloc River, the old name of Davao River. (Junction of Washington St. and Quimpo Blvd.)
Furukawa Plantation – The abaca plantation in Daliao which was acquired from the Bagobos as a result of the Otha Public Land Act in 1903. (Toril)
Japanese Museum – The museum features historical accounts of the Japanese community residing in Davao before and during the war including their tools which they used in the abaca plantations, currencies, publications, among others. (Calinan)
Japanese Peace Memorial Shrine – During the "Ubon Yasumi," Japan's version of All Souls' Day held in August, Japanese war veterans and their kin take a pilgrimage to visit this memorial shrine. (Mintal)
Lon Wa Buddhist Temple - The biggest Buddhist temple in Mindanao is set in environment of candle trees and bamboo with an imposing statue of the Buddha and his life depicted in wood carving. (R. Cabaguio Ave.)
Memorial to a Brave Son - This memorial marker was built in recognition of the gallantry of Armando Generoso, who died in the very site of the bridge while defending it from the Japanese invaders during World War ll. (Gov. Generoso Bridge)
Mindanao Taoist Temple – Houses the holy icons of the Taoist religion. (J.P. Cabaguio Ave.)
Mintal Historical Marker – A memorial to Col. Yamada who defended Mintal during the war. It is also the site of the visit of McArthur, Stillwel and Eichelberger. (Mintal)
Monument of Peace & Unity – Unveiled during the celebration of the Philippine Centennial in 1998, the monument depicts the peaceful relationship of the migrant and indigenous inhabitants of Davao in the last 100 years. (San Pedro St.)
Mosques – Islam is also one of the major religions in the city with several places of worships found in Bankerohan, Quezon Blvd., Panacan, Quimpo Blvd., among others.
Old Japanese Houses – The site of old Japanese homes, warehouses and abaca processing and drying plants before and during World War II. (Mintal, Tugbok District & Toril District)
Osmeña Park – Formerly known as the Plaza, this was the site of the settlement of the early Davaoeños. (San Pedro St.)
Ottha Kyosaburu Memorial Shrine – A memorial obelisk built in honor of Otha Kyosaburu who invoked the Public Land Act No. 926 of 1903. (Mintal Elementary School)
Uyanguren Landing Site – The landing site of Don Jose Oyanguren y Cruz of Guipuzcoa, Spain, the Spanish conqueror who later became the Governor of Davao. (Rodriguez Park, Quezon Blvd.)
San Pedro Cathedral – One of the oldest churches in Mindanao, the original structure of the church was built in 1847 in honor of St. Peter, the city's patron saint. The old altar is preserved at the right wing of the cathedral. (San Pedro St.). It is the ecclesiastical seat of the Archdiocese of Davao.
Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague – A local mecca of the city's Roman Catholic devotees. (Shrine Hill, Matina)
St. Mary of Perpetual Rosary – A shrine built in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary which features series of steps which leads to the main chapel. (Buhangin District)
Talomo Beach – Sunken warships during the Second World War can be found just 200 meters from the shore. (Talomo District)
Eden Nature Park - A very popular mountain resort located some 40 min away from the city center. It is situated 3000 ft above sea level, giving it a cool and moderate climate. It is 95% man made with pine trees dotting the landscape. It covers 40 hectares worth of developed land.
Philippine Eagle Center - Home to the Philippines National Bird, The Philippine Eagle (previously named Monkey Eating Eagle), the largest eagle in the World. It is where they are bred in captivity in order to increase their population and prevent extinction. Located in Malagos, a 45 min drive from the city center. Aside from being a temporary home for the Monkey Eating Eagle's, it also hosts some other exotic animals native to Davao's forest.
Paradise Island and Beach Resort - A very popular white sand beach resort located in Samal Island. It is a 5 min boat ride away from its drop off point at Lanang. Aside from its unspoiled waters, it also has a zoo as an added attraction.
External links
- Official City Government Website
- Davao City 2002
- Philippine Standard Geographic Code
- Davao City Photos and Travel Guide
- Satellite picture by Google Maps
- Official Site of the Kadayawan Festival
- Mutya ng Davao
- Davao Tourism
- Davao Guide
- The Wild Tribes of Davao District, Mindanao, by Fay-Cooper Cole, 1913, from Project Gutenberg
