Davao City aims to attract 2.5 million tourists this year, according to the City Tourism Operations Office (CTTO).

CTTO head Jennifer Romero expressed optimism about reaching the goal.

In 2024, tourist arrivals exceeded 1.8 million, surpassing the 1.2 million recorded in 2023.

“We are positive because we have stabilized events in our city," she said. "We are already planning and will be releasing dates so tourists can book flights ahead of time.”

Romero said events such as Araw ng Dabaw, Duaw Dabaw, the Kadayawan Festival, and Pasko Fiesta attract tourists.

She said tourist arrival figures are based on the number of visitors staying in accredited accommodations.

The Kadayawan Festival in August drew the largest number of visitors, with 190,068, followed by 178,555 in December, she added.

Romero said the CTTO will advocate for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) incentives to attract more events to the city.

The Department of Tourism is developing the Regional Tourism Development Plan to encourage sustainable tourism growth, she said. 

DAVAO CITY HALL PHOTO