8 expectations for Davao in 2018

DAVAO was on a roll in 2017, minus the snags that we pretty much handled well. Resilient, that’s what we are. Generally, we had a good year. At leas that’s how I felt.

I am looking forward to an even better 2018. What should we expect for this year? I asked eight of Davao’s personalities on what the city should expect.

Tourism

We hit the 2 million mark (on tourist visit) because of the strong private partnership that we have in Davao, the support of Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, our security forces for securing our city in such a way that they themselves have become “must selfie with” icons.

For 2018, we will push for more (MICE) in Davao and promotions to achieve this.

Business

Debbie Uy-Rodlfo, AVP for Corporate Communications and Customer Service at Phoenix Petroleum

The city can expect businesses to be more confident, in the sense that we have the environment that supports growth and opportunities. Davao businesses will not be afraid to compete in the national stage, because we do have the talent and entrepreneurial skills to succeed.

Retail

Luigi Escaño, Mall Manager at Abreeza Mall

I am pretty upbeat and excited with the Davao market given prospects of increased spending power brought about mainly by the recent tax reforms.

Hotel

Dottie Wurgler-Cronin, General Manager of Marco Polo Davao

Steady and positive growth for 2018 even with the extension of Martial Law. We have seen the steady influx of tourists when Martial Law was declared. And because of the economic environment, where the Philippines has the fastest growing economy in Asia, let’s expect a busy time for the hospitality business this year.

Food

Pauline Malilin, restauranteur/chef at Rekado

With the opening of new restaurants before 2017 ended, it's quite evident that the dining in Davao will be very exciting for 2018.

The food scene has been elevated with the chefs putting their own personal touches in the cuisine.

Nightlife

Rochelle Venuti, band vocalist and event host

We expect a more vibrant and active night scene. With more tourist arrivals expect more clubs and entertainment venues to sprout. Even the non-Davaoeños are investing on places like these. I feel that this year, one-stop areas with different entertainment establishments, like MTS or Lanang Business Park, will flourish.

Fashion

Emi Englis, Designer & Instructor at PWC

We are on the right track. Internationally, the fashion industry is encouraging local cultural heritage and identity as reference points for design.

Last year, designers were able to create the right formula for Mindanao-inspired fashion, meaning it’s very wearable and marketable. This 2018, expect the creativity of our local designers to flourish and hopefully hit the international scene.

Going beyond fashion shows, Davao and Mindanao fashion will be made sustainable with focus on the development of skills of local artisans and materials.

Health

Councilor Joselle Villafuerte, Chairperson, Committee on Health

We will continue to promote maternal and child health, push for a national movement against smoking, deal with health concern issues like the Dengvaxia. DOH Region 11, as lead agency of health, is tasked to monitor kids vaccinated by private practitioners here in the region.