PICTURE a premier ecotourism property located in a lush 21-hectare coconut and mangrove farm in Barangay Pundaguitan, Municipality of Governor Generoso, in the Province of Davao Oriental.
Blessed with natural resources, the owners were inspired by a vision to build a high end wellness resort that occupies a kilometer long stretch of white coastline fronting Davao Gulf. Topped by a breathtaking view of the mountain ranges, it is set in a peaceful and laid-back coastal town by an ocean with a healthy marine environment at the southernmost tip of the Philippines.
El Don Resort, inspired by a Mediterranean architectural design, offers posh facilities at the heart of a quiet municipality for traveling guests. An English translation of “The Gift”, El Don signifies a treasure trove of gifts unwrapped by Governor Generoso from its rich culture, warm people, historical significance and natural assets.
Fourteen spacious rooms called “Casa del Mar” and “Casa La Jardin” are set in a backdrop of healthy coconut trees and in full view of the sea. Add a Cabana which serves as a function and entertainment area, the place is ideal for family gatherings, reunions, special events, weddings, seminars, and intimate activities, accommodating a total of 100 guests.
In the middle of a well-manicured landscape is a poolside facility safe for kids and adults. Next to the swimming pool are a mini bar and a Spanish-Filipino restaurant that offers seafood delights, and a rooftop bar. Outdoor activities for team buildings and garden parties are available along the beach front and open areas as well.
This new and unique ecotourism attraction is located four hours by land from the Davao City International Airport, right into the heart of Davao Oriental’s relaxing wilderness.
“With its premier facilities, El Don Resort will be able to attract and serve more tourists in this part of the region,” CEO JR Zamora said.
Ms. Eden Josephine David, Overall Resort Advisor, explains how each guest will explore a complete experiential tourism as El Don unwraps the gifts of Governor Generoso, namely: “the Tatlong Maria (3 Lighthouses), the historic Altar Cave where St. Xavier held his first mass and the pink beach at Cape San Agustin; the picturesque Montserrat Highway drive, the UNESCO World Heritage site Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary; the century-old Dau Tree; bird watching and diving in Sigaboy islet... these are but few of the many treasures of GovGen.”
During the recent blessing ceremony and opening of El Don Resort, guests of honor have graced the affair: Hon. Joel Mayo Zosa Almario, Congressman-District of Davao Oriental; Hon. Katrina Joy Orencia, Municipal Mayor of Governor Generoso; Hon. Vicente Orencia, Municipal Vice Mayor of Governor Generoso; Hon. Elizer Bacus, Barangay Captain of Pundaguitan and guests from the Congressional Office of Hon. Maricar Zamora. Other guests were part of the team who significantly made this future attraction possible: contractors Charice Puentespina of CPDA and Architect Ariel Edquila of AA Edquila Builders; and the resort consultants: Nadine Francisco (Front Office and Operations Lead Consultant), Rene and Chona Lizada (Human Resource Consultants), Reymond Pepito (Marketing Lead Consultant), Chef Gerard Piyansay (F&B, Kitchen and Service Operations Consultant), Rodel Pagobo (Housekeeping Consultant) and Vani Ablog (F&B Service Consultant).