Davao City Launches New Culinary Tourism Circuits

Davao City has officially launched four new tourism circuits aimed at enhancing visitor experiences and showcasing the city's rich culinary and cultural heritage. The initiative, named "Suroy 'Ta!", includes the Davao Food Crawl and Market Experience, which guide tourists through vibrant local markets and highlight the unique flavors of Dabawenyo cuisine.

Among the key attractions is the 54-year-old Del Mar Painitan, opened in 1972 by Alberto and Lourdes Delmar. It is known for its traditional offerings such as puto maya (sticky rice cake) and sikwate (a chocolate drink made from Davao cacao beans). The current second-generation owner, Lara Grace Tapiz, emphasized the importance of maintaining quality, saying that since 1972 they have maintained the quality of their offerings and that the mixture and quality remain as before.

“My parents started as vendors, but through hard work, the business improved. Now we have a stall, and since 1972, we have maintained the quality of our offerings. Kung unsa to before tung timpla, quality hangtod karon mao lang gihapon (How it was before, the mixture, the quality is still maintained).”Lara Grace Tapiz, current second-generation owner of Del Mar Painitan

The Davao Food Crawl allows participants to experience the city’s culinary diversity, from the pungent durian at Magsaysay Fruit Vendor’s Association to the grilled tuna jaw at Bankerohan. This immersive experience not only highlights Davao’s agricultural bounty but also fosters a connection between visitors and local producers. The market experience is designed to celebrate the stories of farmers and vendors who contribute to Davao's vibrant food scene.

“Willenito Tormis Jr. said they are focusing on community-based tourism, targeting new circuits and new experiences.”Willenito Tormis Jr., Officer-in-Charge, City Tourism Operations Office

According to Willenito Tormis Jr., Officer-in-Charge of the City Tourism Operations Office, the aim of these new circuits is to promote community-based tourism, which benefits local businesses and encourages sustainable practices. He said they are focusing on community-based tourism, targeting new circuits and new experiences. Tanya Rabat-Tan, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism (DOT) for Davao, noted that the new circuits provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs and farmers, ensuring that tourism contributes meaningfully to local livelihoods.

The launch of these circuits comes as Davao City seeks to establish itself as a premier destination in Mindanao, encouraging visitors to explore beyond traditional tourist spots. Mayor Sebastian Duterte highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating that as the city continues to develop its tourism industry, it is timely and strategic to introduce initiatives that highlight its rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant communities.

“Tanya Rabat-Tan noted that the new tourism circuits provide opportunities to explore the stories of local communities, history, and agriculture that make Davao distinct and help distribute tourism benefits across districts.”Tanya Rabat-Tan, Regional Director, Department of Tourism-Davao

As Davao embraces its culinary identity, Tapiz expressed gratitude to the tourism industry for helping their business become known among foreign and local visitors. With affordable prices and an emphasis on quality, the Davao Food Crawl and Market Experience aim to create lasting connections between visitors and the local culture.