Davao Adventure

THE Rural Bank of Itogon (RBI), Mangaldan Branch, had its family outing in Davao recently. Davao has a population of nearly 1.5M with an area of 2,444 sq. Km. Climate is tropical with an average of 15 to 34 C.

Davao City’s true wealth lies in its culture and history thanks to the legacies of its indigenous and Muslim tribes. According to historians, the word Davao is a result of the phonetic blending of words from three Bagobo sub-groups, meaning “beyond the higher grounds” or “over the hills yonder”, a reference to the location of Davao River, a trading settlement. When different tribes went to the area, they would say that they were going to ‘Davoh’ (Obo group, considered the earliest tribe to settle in the area).

We had our first dinner at JACK’S RIDGE RESORT AND RESTAURANT where there is a commanding view of Davao City and the gulf before settling down at SEQUIOA INN, a 3-star lodging place. In spite of its infamous distinctive odor, I still relished eating Durian at Magsaysay Street! DAVAO CROCODILE PARK is home to one of the largest crocodiles of the country. Aside from the 19-ft reptilian giant, exotic reptile mammals, varieties of birds can also be found inside the mini zoo. Animal encounters (photos can be taken with live crocodiles, snakes, iguanas, etc...) and wildlife shows are also presented. The park has a cultural village known as TRIBU K, where Mindanawon features cultural performances and fire dances from the indigenous tribes of the city. Included in the Park is a riverside restaurant, Zorb Park and a butterfly sanctuary.

Our most exciting event was the WHITE WATER RAFTING along the winding Davao River, a three-hour high adrenaline adventure, cruising through rapids from Barangay Tamugan to Barangay Lacson in Calinan District.

On another day, we contracted a motor boat to go to MAXIMA, a Samal Island adventure resort. While waiting at the port, numerous kids dived to retrieve coins thrown by tourists into the sea. MAXIMA water’s special features are an ABYSS and a CORAL WALL. Snorkelling and swimming the whole day was fun!

Situated 2,500-ft above sea level, EDEN NATURE PARK’s main attractions include mountain trekking, horseback riding, fishing, and zip line - all within the 80-ha nature paradise. It is a natural haven away from the city and it’s surprisingly 95% man-made.

A buying spree at the ALDEVINCO SHOPPING CENTER, a unique arcade that houses over 100 small shops that sells antique and ethnic products that is indigenous to Mindanao, was our final adventure. Included in my acquisitions to bring back home are a crate of lush pink Pomelos and fresh Durian!