DAVAO CITY (PIA) — The tourism industry in Davao Region continues its upward trajectory as the Department of Tourism Region XI (DOT-XI) reported a total of 4,155,581 tourist arrivals in 2024.
This reflects a 27-percent increase compared to the previous year’s figures, underscoring the region’s growing appeal as a top travel destination.
Alongside the surge in visitor numbers, the region also recorded ₱34,786,948,402 in tourist receipts for the fiscal year 2024. This remarkable revenue growth highlights the significant contribution of tourism to the local economy, benefiting various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and local businesses.
DOT Regional Director Tanya Virginia Rabat-Tan, noted that despite the existing travel advisory, she was surprised to learn that sales for Davao remained strong. This indicates that people continue to visit the region despite the advisory. With this in mind, she emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to market and promote Davao, ensuring its appeal to both local and international travelers.
“Actually, while a travel advisory was existing, I was surprised to find out that, actually, malakas ‘yung sales nila for Davao. Meaning, despite the advisory, you know, people still visit us. So, with that, you know, we will continue to work harder on efforts in marketing and promoting Davao.” Rabat-Tan said.
The DOTI has also emphasized the importance of safety and security in tourism, with 30% of its training programs dedicated to safety and security measures. Moreover, the agency encourages tourists to support DOT-accredited enterprises, including hotels, tour operators, and travel agencies, to ensure high-quality services and safety standards.
“Sa DOT accreditation, we inspect the facility kung umayon ba sila doon base sa ating standard at sa mga checklist natin. ‘Yon ‘yong ating chine-check, but siyempre, part na at naka-integrate na rin talaga ‘yong mga training natin on carrying capacity and other related trainings on that.” Rabat-Tan said.
(If it complies with our standards and our checklist, that is what we are checking. It is also integrated with our training on carrying capacity and other related training activities.)
With the region’s tourism sector steadily expanding, stakeholders are optimistic about further growth in the coming years. The DOT remains committed to strengthening partnerships, enhancing tourism infrastructure, and promoting Davao Region as a premier travel destination in the Philippines.
“We continue to promote sustainability and responsible tourism, so naka-embed siya actually when we engage with our stakeholders through our training and capacity- building [activities].” Rabat-Tan said. (REC / PIA XI)
