Tag: Mindanao

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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, MinDA, and DCCCII Strengthen Partnerships to Boost Mindanao’s Economic Growth and Logistics Connectivity

DAVAO CITY, Philippines—March 23, 2025—Leading transportation and logistics provider 2GO recently brought together key industry leaders, government partners, and business stakeholders in Southern Mindanao to support a shared goal: driving economic growth through stronger partnerships and better logistics connectivity.

The event, titled “Advancing Mindanao’s Inclusive Growth through Stronger Partnerships and Sustainable Economic Progress,” served as a platform for collaboration among representatives from the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), and various sectors, including agribusiness, manufacturing, exporting, and logistics.

A Shared Vision for Growth

During the forum, participants discussed key regional priorities, logistics challenges, and opportunities to improve supply chain connectivity. These conversations are especially important for industries that rely heavily on efficient transport systems to grow and compete.

“Efficient logistics plays a critical role in connecting producers to markets and enabling industries to grow,” said Sharon Musngi-Ngo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions. She emphasized that closer collaboration between the government and the private sector will help businesses in Davao and across Mindanao expand their reach nationwide and globally.

Collaboration at the Core

A major highlight of the forum was the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening infrastructure, improving market access, and supporting inclusive economic development.

“This meeting marks the beginning of a more purposeful collaboration between the private and public sectors,” said MinDA Executive Director Usec. Janet M. Lopoz. She noted that with 2GO’s expertise, logistical gaps can be addressed, allowing local industries to scale and compete in international markets.

Echoing this, Dr. Mirasol B. Tiu, President of DCCCII, stressed that stronger logistics systems can empower businesses of all sizes—from exporters to small enterprises—to grow and thrive.

Expanding Logistics Across Mindanao

2GO continues to expand its footprint in Mindanao, recognizing the region as a key driver of the Philippines’ future economic growth. The company currently operates in eight major ports, including:

    • Butuan (via Nasipit)
    • Cagayan de Oro
    • General Santos
    • Zamboanga
    • Dipolog (via Dapitan)
    • Ozamiz
    • Davao
    • Siargao (newly added)

These locations help ensure smoother movement of goods and passengers, supporting the region’s growing economy.

Additionally, 2GO’s direct Manila–Davao passenger vessel route strengthens connections between Mindanao, Luzon, and the Visayas—further positioning Davao as a key logistics hub in the south.

A Legacy of Service and Innovation

With over a century of experience in maritime and logistics, 2GO offers a wide range of services through its four main business units:

    • 2GO Sea Solutions
    • 2GO Forwarding
    • 2GO Special Containers and Project Logistics
    • 2GO Travel

These services include sea freight, passenger transport, cold chain logistics, bulk liquid transport, warehousing, customs brokerage, and last-mile delivery—helping businesses move goods efficiently across the country.

Looking Ahead

As 2GO continues to work closely with partners like MinDA and DCCCII, the focus remains clear: improve logistics connectivity, expand market access, and support the long-term growth of Mindanao.

With stronger collaboration and better infrastructure, Mindanao is well on its way to becoming a more competitive and inclusive economic powerhouse in the Philippines.