Davao — The provincial government of Davao Oriental officially launched its new tourism brand on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, aiming to elevate the region’s profile on the international stage. With the bilingual tagline "Davao Oriental Beautiful! Kanato Ini (This is ours) for All to See!", the initiative highlights the province’s diverse mix of mountain ranges and coastal gems. The branding is anchored by the UNESCO World Heritage Site Mount Hamiguitan and the famous white-sand shores of Dahican Beach. Officials have mandated that this new visual identity be adopted across both public and private sectors to ensure a consistent, recognizable image for potential visitors.
A Mark of Local Pride and Identity
This branding effort is more than just a marketing tool; it is a declaration of the province's unique character and cultural identity. By tying the tagline "Kanato Ini" (This is ours) to the global stage, the province is inviting tourists to participate in a shared experience of pride and wonder. The provincial ordinance formally adopting this brand envisions a unified message that will be printed on everything from official brochures to large-scale television advertising. It marks a departure from fragmented promotional efforts, moving instead toward a single, cohesive identity that local businesses can leverage to attract more travelers.
Showcasing Nature’s Best Assets
The focus of this new campaign is to highlight the sheer variety of experiences available within the province, ranging from extreme surfing at Dahican to serene exploration of high-altitude ecosystems. Aside from the famous Mount Hamiguitan, the province is banking on the popularity of Aliwagwag Falls and the scenic Sleeping Dinosaur landscape to draw in eco-tourists. The Subangan Museum is also being positioned as a central hub where visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the province’s natural history before heading out to the field. Each of these sites serves as a key pillar in a broader strategy to transform Davao Oriental into a premier destination for travelers who value biodiversity.
Empowering Local Communities Through Tourism
Integrating this new brand into local establishments is expected to create a ripple effect, encouraging small business owners to align their services with the province's growing reputation. As the brand takes hold, tourism officers hope to see an increase in visitor stays, which in turn benefits local transport operators, food vendors, and handicraft makers. The initiative also includes plans to support student-led start-ups in the tourism sector, ensuring that the next generation is actively involved in the industry's growth. By fostering this sense of ownership, the province is betting that the most effective advocates for their beauty will be the locals themselves.
