Tags: Davao City tourist attractions, new Davao City officials 2025, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte Davao, Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte, Davao tourism 2025, Davao travel guide, best places in Davao City
Davao City stands as one of the crown jewels of the Philippines—a captivating blend of nature’s splendor, rich heritage, and strong governance. In the recent 2025 elections, Davao once again made headlines, not only for its democratic exercise but for ushering in a new chapter of leadership with familiar names at the helm. Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte returns as the newly elected Mayor of Davao City, while his son, Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, assumes the post of Vice Mayor. With this powerful tandem, Davaoeños and tourists alike can expect a more dynamic and secure tourism experience.
This blog will guide you through Davao City’s premier tourist spots, emerging travel gems, and how the Duterte leadership promises to shape a more vibrant, visitor-friendly Davao.
Meet the New Officials of Davao City (2025)
The 2025 local elections drew national attention as former President Rodrigo Duterte reclaimed his roots and was overwhelmingly elected as Mayor of Davao City, succeeding his daughter, now Vice President Sara Duterte. With decades of experience in law enforcement, governance, and peacebuilding, Mayor Duterte brings with him a wealth of leadership that has been pivotal to Davao's transformation over the years.
Rodrigo Duterte – Mayor of Davao City
- Former President of the Philippines (2016–2022)
- Former long-serving Mayor of Davao City before his presidency
- Known for his strong stance on law and order, discipline, and development
More about Mayor Duterte: Rodrigo Duterte - Official Biography
Sebastian “Baste” Duterte – Vice Mayor of Davao City
- Previously served as Davao City Mayor (2019–2025)
- Advocates environmental preservation, youth programs, and community tourism
- Known for his strong support for local industries and digital transformation
News Source: Philippine News Agency – Davao 2025 Elections
Together, this father-son leadership aims to revitalize tourism through better infrastructure, community participation, and enhanced safety for both locals and tourists.
Top Tourist Attractions in Davao City (2025 Edition)
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, Davao’s sights remain as majestic as ever. Let’s explore the top tourist destinations that reflect the city's soul.
1. Mount Apo Natural Park
The pride of Mindanao, Mount Apo remains the country’s tallest peak at 2,954 meters. Trekking trails start in Davao and continue through lush forests, waterfalls, and hot springs.
- Trekking info and permits: Mount Apo Foundation
- Conservation efforts supported by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)
2. People’s Park
Located in the heart of the city, People’s Park is a landscaped masterpiece featuring durian-shaped domes, tribal sculptures, and a man-made waterfall. Open to families, joggers, and tourists, this park is a symbol of peace and order.
- Location: Palma Gil Street, Davao City
- Google Maps Link to People's Park
3. Philippine Eagle Center
Home of the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, this conservation facility offers guided tours, bird-watching, and educational seminars. It's a family-friendly and advocacy-driven destination.
- Website: www.philippineeaglefoundation.org
- Location: Malagos, Baguio District, Davao City
4. Roxas Night Market
Taste Davao’s flavors with grilled seafood, street-style isaw, and local desserts like durian candy. With security measures in place, tourists can explore food and fashion in a safe, open-air market.
- Opening Hours: 5:00 PM to 12:00 Midnight
- TripAdvisor Review of Roxas Night Market
5. Museo Dabawenyo
Learn Davao’s multi-ethnic heritage from Moros, Lumads, and Christians through ancient artifacts, clothing, and photographs.
- New digital exhibits launched in 2025
- Visit Davao Museum Info
Emerging Tourist Destinations: A Glimpse Into the New Davao
The 2025 local government is actively supporting emerging tourism communities and projects:
a. Kadayawan Village
A newly opened cultural village that showcases life-sized tribal houses, traditional crafts, and live cultural performances year-round—not just during the Kadayawan Festival.
- Kadayawan Official Page
- Location: Magsaysay Park, Davao City
b. Barangay Farm Tourism Sites
Launched as part of the Agri-Tourism Program, several barangays in Calinan, Tugbok, and Marilog offer organic farms and weekend homestays.
- More info: Department of Tourism XI – Davao
c. Samal Island via Davao-Samal Bridge
The long-awaited Davao-Samal Bridge project, now nearing completion, will cut travel time to the island’s white beaches and resorts. Under Duterte's administration, tourism and investment in Samal are expected to boom.
- Project details: DPWH Davao Projects
Governance That Works: Local Leadership & Tourism
One of Mayor Rodrigo Duterte’s earliest pronouncements after taking office was a return to basic governance—clean streets, efficient transportation, visible police presence, and responsive public service.
The city government’s roadmap includes:
- Tourism Infrastructure Upgrades: Roads to Mount Apo, eco-parks, and barangay farm areas are now being prioritized.
- Digital Tourism Campaigns: Launching of the “Davao Tourism Mobile App” by Q4 of 2025.
- Cultural Revivals: Supporting community festivals, tribal arts, and Davao-made products.
- Peace & Order Programs: Increased number of tourist police stations and CCTV-integrated public areas.
Learn more from: Davao City Tourism Operations Office
Public Reactions: Renewed Hope and Rising Opportunities
Elena Reyes, a tour guide from Mintal, shares: “Under Mayor Digong and Vice Mayor Baste, we are seeing tourists return in larger numbers. They also support local guides with seminars and ID accreditations. It's a huge help for us.”
Jonathan Lim, a young entrepreneur in Matina, remarks: “The Duterte leadership gives us confidence. Davao is a safer and more stable place to do business now.”
This administration’s impact isn’t limited to city aesthetics or tourist attractions; it also boosts confidence among investors, families, and students who all want to thrive in a peaceful, dynamic city.
Visitor Tips: Safe and Meaningful Travel in Davao
- Airport: Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO) offers direct domestic and international flights.
- Transport: Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely available. E-tricycles are now operating in downtown areas.
- Weather: Best months to visit are December to May (dry season).
- Security: Always carry a valid ID. Tourist assistance centers are located in major attractions.
Davao City has a 24/7 tourist hotline:
+63 (82) 241-1000 or email: tourism@davaocity.gov.ph
A Call to Visit: Discover the Soul of the South
With tourism now being directly supported by the new Duterte administration, Davao is regaining its reputation as the most disciplined, cleanest, and safest major city in the country. The city’s offerings—natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and modern governance—make it an ideal destination for family vacations, spiritual retreats, educational tours, and business trips.
From mountaintop adventures to night market delights, from tribal dances to eagle encounters—Davao invites you to explore its wonders under new leadership that is strong, tested, and grounded.
Conclusion: Davao—Rooted in Peace, Rising in Progress
With Rodrigo Duterte and Sebastian Duterte leading Davao once again, the city is poised for a new golden era. Their brand of governance—decisive, protective, and people-first—is precisely what the tourism industry needs to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Davao is not just a place to visit. It’s a city that captures the heart, invites reflection, and leaves you in awe. In the Duterte era of Davao tourism, one thing is clear:
The best is yet to come.
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