MATI CITY — The Provincial Tourism Office of Davao Oriental is inviting tourism stakeholders to a unique evening of sports, food, and fellowship through "Dine and Dink: Davao Oriental Tourism Pickleball Open Play and Barbeque Dinner Buffet." The event takes place on October 9, 2026, at 5:30 PM at The Courtyard, Adelina Hotel and Suites.
A Novel Approach to Tourism Networking
The initiative aims to promote sports tourism while strengthening connections among tourism establishments, workers, local government personnel, partners, and pickleball enthusiasts across the province. Organizers designed the event to break away from traditional networking formats, offering a relaxed and active environment where industry players can bond over friendly competition.
The rationale behind the activity centers on fostering camaraderie through shared experiences. Rather than sitting through formal presentations, participants engage in open play, share a meal, and build relationships that can translate into future collaborations. The informal setting encourages open dialogue and genuine connection among stakeholders.
Two Ways to Join the Fun
Participants have two options for the evening. The "Dine and Dink" package includes pickleball open play and a barbecue dinner buffet for a registration fee of ₱500. Only 28 slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring an intimate and manageable group for the games.
For those who prefer not to play, the "Dine Only" option allows guests to skip the court and enjoy the same ₱500 barbecue dinner buffet. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone, regardless of athletic inclination, can participate in the networking and fellowship. Tourism stakeholders, partners, and guests are all welcome.
Encouraging Industry-Wide Participation
The Provincial Tourism Office encourages representatives from DOT-accredited accommodation establishments, restaurants, tour operators, travel agencies, resorts, and other tourism-related enterprises to join. Their presence enriches the networking experience and strengthens the local tourism ecosystem.
Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang and Provincial Tourism Officer Atty. Lovella Fe M. Tacder have expressed support for the initiative. The event program includes opening remarks, a message of support, the governor's message, a networking dinner, open play, and an awarding and raffle segment. The evening runs until midnight.
Promoting Sports Tourism in Davao Oriental
The event aligns with the province's broader push to develop sports tourism as a pillar of its visitor economy. Pickleball has surged in popularity across the Philippines, making it an ideal vehicle for attracting both participants and spectators. By hosting open play for tourism workers, the province positions itself as a forward-thinking destination that embraces emerging recreational trends.
The Provincial Tourism Office sees the activity as a stepping stone toward larger sports tourism events. The connections forged during this evening may lead to future collaborations, including tournaments, inter-agency competitions, and wellness-focused travel packages. The ripple effect could benefit local hotels, restaurants, and transport providers.
How to Register and Learn More
Interested participants can register through the Google Form link provided by the organizers. The venue, Adelina Hotel and Suites, offers a comfortable setting for both the court and the buffet. For more information, stakeholders may contact the Provincial Tourism Office via email or phone.
Whether joining for the pickleball or simply for the barbecue, attendees can expect an evening of meaningful connections and shared pride in Davao Oriental's thriving tourism industry. The invitation is open, the slots are limited, and the promise of a memorable night is guaranteed.
