Tag: Department of Tourism

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Davao Diaries: Eagles, Escapes, and Every Cup of Matcha

Is the “Durian Capital of the Philippines” now also called the “Matcha Capital of the Philippines”? Welcome to Davao City, Philippines. Aside from being the home of the monkey-eating Philippine eagle, you can also find Mt. Apo on its land and harvest its pride fruit, durian. (Philippine Tourism USA, n.d.)

Going in and out of Davao, there are undeniably lots of tourist places you can visit that are also undeniably amazing to go to. One of the people’s favorites is the Malagos Garden Resort; any chocolate lover would love to go there. Other places to visit are Philippines Eagle Center, Eden Nature Park, and, with a short boat ride, Samal Island. 

But beyond the buzz and viral posts, what makes this place truly deserving of its newfound spotlight? Perhaps the answer lies not in a single landmark or attraction, but in the moments that linger long after the journey ends. From timeless destinations to emerging favorites, these are the places that reveal Davao at its finest.

Azuela Cove

    • Being the city that is widely considered one of the cleanest cities in the Philippines, with its disciplined culture and strict local ordinances (Department of Tourism, n.d.), imagine that, but with a blend of residential, commercial, and recreational vibes within one place. Thai, Mexican, and other cuisines, different cafes, and retail stores are all merged and can be found within Azuela High Street. The place also offers a rent-a-bike and rent-a-scooter for a breezy ride within the Azuela perimeters. It also provides a court for everyone’s favorite sport nowadays, pickleball. Pickleball is not the only athletic activity that this place offers; runners and joggers are also welcome to go around the area. And of course, the place also offers its famous Azuela Seaside Promenade, an open-air walkway along the Davao Gulf. Where post-runs and post-cafe dates turn into sunset watching. Azuela Cove offers the perfect Sunday morning vibes that can be enjoyed whether it’s exercising or pure relaxation.

Davao Global Township

    • Davao excels at creating green spaces where good food, great company, and scenic views come together. DGT is an open space where visitors can go for a run or a leisurely jog or spend a restful day by lying down a picnic mat and enjoying quality time with friends and family. It is also home to a personal favorite, SMASHD., where a local take on the famous In-N-Out Flying Dutchman can be found. Matcha cafés, AnniPie Bakery, food carts, and high-end restaurants all share this vibrant space, framed by the silhouette of residential mountains and some of the city’s most breathtaking sunsets.

The Philippines’ Newest Matcha Capital

    • Crowned by the internet, Davao is known as the Matcha Capital of the Philippines, offering countless Matcha cafes within the city. But does it really deserve the spotlight? Whether it be big or small cafes, the city seems to refuse to use instant and not-so-freshly made matcha for every order. Though matcha drinks are not the most affordable beverages out there, every cup should be worth the price. That is why it is always better to know where to go before taking that first sip. Here are some of the cafés that deserve a spot on every matcha lover’s list.
      1. &Matcha – The store not only sells matcha but also offers the best scenery to drink their drinks as well. From the exterior to the taste of their matcha, it’s an automatic 10/10. They offer a safe variety to choose from that fits within everyone’s taste buds.
      2. Mille Matcha – A minimalist and modern interior paired with their authentic tasty matcha drinks. Mille Matcha can also be found within the grounds of DGT, which makes it the perfect place to go for dessert.
      3. Kisom Matcha – Grab your current read, as this place not only offers good matcha but also a cozy yet productive setting. Without question, Kisom is said to offer good matcha, and guess what? They also let you pour the matcha and the sweetener yourself. 
      4. Manu Cafe – A Japandi-style cafe that is surely within reach. The cafe doesn’t only offer matcha as a dessert but also serves coffee. The vibe and atmosphere of the place is definitely perfect for WFC, work-from-cafe.
      5. The Matcha Tokyo – The safest place to satisfy your matcha cravings, offering a quality and tasty treat. The Matcha Tokyo can be found either at SM Davao or Azuela High Street, along with its other branches within the country. 

These are not the only places to enjoy matcha within Davao City, but they are undoubtedly among the most recommended. In the end, perhaps the best way to discover Davao is not only through the places it is known for, but also through the quiet moments shared over a cup of matcha, one cup at a time.

Davao City has been known for its traditional attractions, towering mountains, undeniable biodiversity, and the unique aroma of durian. But beyond these cultures, the city continues to reinvent itself without losing its identity. From serene green areas and energetic neighborhoods to cafés subtly perfecting each cup of matcha, Davao demonstrates that its top attractions are not just those seen in travel brochures but also the moments that entice tourists to stay a bit longer. It is up to each traveler to determine whether or not it really merits the moniker “Matcha Capital of the Philippines.” But one thing is certain: Davao is now a city to experience, one location, one sunset, and maybe even one cup of matcha at a time, rather than merely a place to travel.

Philippines Tourism USA. (n.d.). Davao. https://philippinetourismusa.com/destination/davao/  

Department of Tourism. (n.d.). Davao City. Love the Philippines. https://www.tourism.gov.ph/destination/davao-region/davao-city/  

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2GO Travel Opens New Route: Connecting Manila to Siargao

2GO Travel proudly launched its newest route from Manila to Siargao, giving travelers a more affordable and convenient alternative to reach the island paradise. This milestone boosts tourism and the local economy and makes Siargao more accessible to Filipinos and international visitors alike.

A Fresh Perspective on Siargao

For a long time, flying was the primary mode of transportation to Siargao, but it wasn’t always affordable or convenient. However, travelers can now embark on a more enjoyable journey aboard 2GO Travel’s St. Francis Xavier. With a capacity of approximately 1,800 people, this vessel offers a highly efficient and economical means of reaching the island.

Amenities That Make You Feel at Home

The St. Francis Xavier is more than just a vessel; it represents a mobile way of life. Guests can enjoy a relaxing salon for pampering or simply unwinding, a convenience store stocked with essentials, a coffee and bake shop to satisfy hunger pangs, a venue for events and entertainment, and a prayer room for peaceful reflection.

Where to Stay

2GO Travel offers a wide variety of accommodations that cater to the financial constraints and personal tastes of every traveler.

First-Class Accommodations

  • Suite Room—premium luxury and privacy
  • State Room —a spacious and comfortable choice
  • Tourist Class—a practical yet cozy option
  • Cabin—shared accommodations that are comfortable for groups or families.

Economy Class Accommodations

  • Tourist Class—affordable and convenient
  • Cabin –  budget-friendly shared space
  • Mega Value—economical choice for budget-conscious travelers
  • Super Value—the most affordable option for passengers.

Why It Matters

This innovative approach goes beyond mere transportation, serving as a catalyst for expansion. By facilitating maritime travel to Siargao, 2GO Travel supports two crucial areas: tourism is enhanced by making the island more accessible to visitors, while the local economy thrives through fostering trade and creating job opportunities. Furthermore, they provide convenience by offering a cost-effective substitute for costly air travel.

This launch showcases that 2GO Travel recognizes that the journey itself can be a highlight, not just the destination. Reaching Siargao by boat is now a reality, providing travelers with a rewarding and memorable experience.

Embrace Siargao the 2GO way.

Visit  http://www.travel.2GO.com.ph

 

 

 

 

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2GO and DOT Join Forces for FBSE Program, Promoting Filipino Brand of Service Excellence

2GO, a proud subsidiary of the SM Group and the Philippines’ top marine travel provider, has partnered with the DOT to support the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Program. Working together, 2GO and the Philippines Tourism Board are reiterating their shared goal of raising the bar for the tourism industry through superior hospitality and culturally relevant service.

Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano is in charge of the FBSE Program, which is one of the Department of Tourism’s most well-known initiatives. Our goal is to train frontline workers in the tourism and hospitality industry to create a unique national brand by providing outstanding service that embodies the warmth of the Filipino people. Dios, Makatao, Maka-Kalikasan, Makabansa, Masayahin, May Bayanihan, and May Pag-asa are the seven fundamental Filipino values that this customer service program centers on. These principles set it apart from more traditional approaches.

The industry’s commitment to upgrading hospitality standards in the Philippines is shown in 2GO’s commitment to the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence Program. “This partnership guarantees that our guests will encounter the distinct friendliness and generosity that characterize the Filipino service style,” remarks Hon. Shahlimar Hofer Tamano.

Greetings, 2GO: Making the Filipino Hospitality Industry Stronger
By sending fourteen people to a DOT-sponsored “Train-The-Trainer” training session, 2GO supports the department’s efforts to establish and broaden the FBSE’s reach. These 2GO participants will train team members, especially those who work in the tourist industry or on the front lines. Among other culturally significant Filipino customs with a 2GO touch, the training demonstrates and applies the Mabuhay and Salamat Gestures within 2GO establishments. By adopting FBSE standards, 2GO is improving the service experience for its customers and creating an atmosphere that is welcoming to Filipinos.

These certified trainers will be crucial in instilling the FBSE values across 2GO and maintaining service standards that faithfully represent the diverse Filipino hospitality culture. Aligning with the FBSE Program enables us to contribute to a seamless Filipino hospitality experience for our passengers travelling from shore to shore, as we expect more travellers in the Philippines,” says Frederic DyBuncio, President and CEO of 2GO Group, Inc.

“The FBSE Program has truly enriched our approach to service,” notes Vince Canete, 2GO’s HR and Training Supervisor and one of the newly certified trainers. Instilling a sense of pride and cultural identification in our passengers is equally as important as training our staff. It is our hope that our day-to-day operations reflect this kind of professionalism and friendliness.

Raising the Bar for Service Quality Company-wide
Aiming to foster a culture of service excellence, integrating the FBSE Program within 2GO will substantially raise the quality standards of the sea transport tourism workforce. 2GO must provide first-rate service that reflects Filipino values, and this project couldn’t come at a better moment because the Philippines is seeing a consistent rise in tourist arrivals.

Two-Go is reiterating its commitment to building a brand that reflects the rich history of Filipino hospitality by training 200 participants from different departments across different locations. With this relationship with the DOT, 2GO has reached a new level of success in its mission to improve transportation and logistics services in the Philippines.

To learn more about 2GO’s products and services, visit 2go.com.ph