WHERE all have the products of Davao gone? They are at the city's one-stop shop that is Pasalubong Center.
The center has been home to indigenous products such as handicrafts, fashion accessories, souvenir items, processed foods, and home decorations for almost two years now.
It was erected primarily to give spaces for local producers who were previously bereft of venues where they can bring their products out to the open - that they, too, can compete squarely with the products we used to call "imported" in which most people stuff in the "balikbayan" boxes to send as presents for the families here.
For all you know, our products are also of equal export qualities. So, once it reaches other lands, it is but an imported product as well. Logic!
So, next time you hear someone asking where the products of the city are, answer them with all pride that they are at the Pasalubong Center, as they epitomize the richness of our land and our vibrant culture.
For instance, our very own dried mangoes and pineapples. Is Davao not gifted with bountiful harvests? Of course, it is! Imagine how blessed Dabawenyos are that they get to enjoy various native fruits at any given period.
Considering that food processors are able to produce such dried products is but an indication that the city has an excess in production. Again, it's all because of the richness of the Davao, touted as the country's fruit basket.
ManileƱos looking for their most revered golden citrus, pomelos, must not look any farther as they can have it at the one-stop shop. Pomelos have been in the wishlist of many domestic tourists because of its sweet, juicy, and tangy goodness that's packed in each sliver that will make about everybody wanting for more.
Fact is most people prefer the taste of these fruits coming from Davao because of its distinctive taste that nowhere else in the country can ever match.
You say mangosteen, and the one-stop shop has it, although not fresh but in a form of bottled concentrate and candies. It also has guyabano juice, most famous for its anti-cancer properties. Just a word of friendly warning, though, that there's not yet proof to this claim.
What about chocolates and that "sikwate"? Luckily, Pasalubong Center has one of the best in the country, specifically that of Malagos farm, which has a smooth, thick, rich flavor. Sweeten it with coco sugar and that makes a perfect cup. Few quality pineapple wines are also made available at the one-stop shop. Other delicacies include durian yema, banana chips, and durian chips.
Pasalubong is also a place for women who look for natural beauty products like organic soaps and Dizon's crocodile oil, and fashionable accessories and bags.
Traditional tapestries of T'boli tribe, T'nalak, which are woven into fine bags and pouches are also up for grabs.
Home decorations such as that made from coconut shells, embellished with seashells, statement shirts, and fashionable hats one can buy as presents after this Kadayawan festivity.
Pasalubong Center is located on Palma Gil Street, Davao City.