In a bold show of optimism for the revival of the tourism industry, Davao City has set an ambitious target of attracting 250,000 tourists for the upcoming Kadayawan Festival.
Despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, Davao City is striving to regain its foothold as one of the premier tourist destinations in the Philippines. The local government believes that the vibrant Kadayawan Festival, a week-long celebration of the city’s cultural heritage and bountiful harvest, will catalyze local and foreign tourists back to the city.“Davao City is ready to welcome visitors. We’ve put in place stringent health protocols to ensure the safety of our locals and tourists alike. We believe that Kadayawan, with its vibrant displays of our cultural heritage, can be a significant attraction,” stated the City Mayor in a recent press briefing.Traditionally, Kadayawan Festival has been a significant tourism draw with colorful street dancing, floats filled with locally grown flowers and fruits, and exhibits showcasing the city’s indigenous tribes. This year, the festival organizers plan to elevate the experience while ensuring that health guidelines are strictly followed.Preparations for the grand event are in full swing, with measures to maintain social distancing, regular sanitization, and other health protocols. Besides, the city is also preparing to host a series of virtual events to engage those who cannot attend the festivities in person.Besides the festival, visitors can enjoy Davao City’s other attractions, such as the Philippine Eagle Center, D’ Bone Collector Museum, and the chance to taste the city’s famous Durian fruit. The city government hopes the mix of cultural activities and local attractions will appeal to many tourists.Achieving the target of 250,000 tourists will significantly boost the local economy, significantly the tourism and hospitality sector, which has been severely affected by the pandemic. The city government is working hand-in-hand with local businesses to ensure the tourist influx benefits all parties involved.As Davao City prepares to host one of the grandest Kadayawan Festivals yet, it symbolizes the resilience of its people amid the challenging times. With vibrant colors, pulsating rhythms, and an infectious spirit of camaraderie, this year’s Kadayawan Festival is poised to be a beacon of hope, signaling a return to joyous celebrations and a revival of tourism in the region.
