The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) is pleased to note the more optimistic travel advisory recently issued by the Consulate General of Japan in Davao.
According to MinDA, the advisory signals improving confidence in Mindanao’s safety and stability, thereby opening opportunities for enhanced international partnerships.
Last month, the Japanese Foreign Ministry downgraded its travel warning for Japanese nationals traveling to certain parts of Mindanao.
In its revised travel advisory, the entire Davao Region’s Davao Oriental, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental have been lowered to Level 1 from Level 2, effective Dec. 19, 2024. These areas now join the cities of Mati, Tagum, Samal, Davao, and Digos, which had been at Level 1.
The risk advisory for Surigao City in the Caraga Region and the rest of Misamis Oriental in Northern Mindanao was also downgraded from Level 2 to Level 1.
Cagayan de Oro City, Jasaan, Villanueva, and Tagoloan, and Siargao Islands remain under Level 1.
From Level 3, Japan eased the travel warning for the eastern part of Sarangani Province namely Malungon, Alabel, Malapatan, and Glan to Level 2 while Maitum, Kiamba, and Maasim in the western part of Sarangani Province remain at Level 3.
MinDA Chair Secretary Leo Tereso Magno said in response, that MinDA will focus on the following ways forward such as pursuing more collaborations with the international community, including diplomatic missions, business chambers, and development agencies, to showcase Mindanao’s readiness for greater economic, cultural, and tourism exchange.
“Just like what we have done in the last few months of 2024, MinDA will tailor investment roadshows to targeted businesses and multinational companies, emphasizing sectors like infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture value chain, and tourism,” Magno said in a statement.
Magno added that in promoting Mindanao as a secure and dynamic destination for investment and development, MinDA will adopt a multi-pronged approach such as supporting a robust international marketing campaign while also tapping strategic online platforms, showcasing how Mindanao is transforming into a hub for sustainable development.
He said that in collaboration with key agencies and business organizations, MinDA will slate a series of high-level investor summits in key Mindanao cities where foreign investors can witness firsthand Mindanao’s safety improvements, economic opportunities, and strong governance.
“We will enhance our partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) in promoting travel packages that align tourism promotion with investment objectives. These itineraries will highlight iconic locations, emerging eco-tourism sites, and successful local enterprises,” Magno said.
