The office of the Department of Tourism-Region XI (DOT-XI) hosted a simple Christmas party for the region’s tourism players last December 15 at the Grand Ballroom of the Royal Mandaya Hotel.
In attendance were representatives from Davao Region’s city and provincial tourism offices, hotels, restaurants, travel and tour operators, and event organizers. “This is our way to gather everyone together for some fun as well as get updated with destination trends and happenings across the region,” said DOT-XI director Roberto Alabado III.
Before the opening of the event, a moment of silence was offered to DOT Mindanao Assistant Secretary Eden David for her quick recovery from her accident. I personally miss her energetic vibe and wish that she would be up and about again soon.
Formal presentations by Miguel Trocio of Davao Oriental, Noel Daquioag of Davao del Norte, and Generose Tacson of Davao City gave guests an overview of the latest trends and tourism data gathered for 2016. A presentation by MICE Davao chair Kennedy Kapulong also highlighted Davao Region’s aggressive thrust to host bigger and better meeting and conventions. For his part, DOT XI director Robby presented the accomplishments of the department for the year 2016 as well as future plans and concerns of the department for 2017.
The 2017 iteration of the Visit Davao Fun Sale was also launched during the event with the formal induction of its tour consortium officers. “The Visit Davao Fun Sale is the only region-wide tourism effort in the Philippines and it has already showed positive results. From its inception as a city-wide mall-based sale, it now includes dining establishments, hotel accommodations, tour packages, and event art” shared Robby.
Congratulations to DOT-XI and the tourism players of the region in the promoting of the region’s destinations and providing jobs and opportunities for the people of Davao.
