Davao City Enhances Its Golf Tourism Appeal to Attract Foreign Visitors
The southern Philippine city is setting itself up to become a regional hub for golf tourism. Local officials are actively pursuing this initiative aimed particularly at foreign enthusiasts from Japan and South Korea.
Officials have convened the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Board to promote Davao City as an ideal destination for both MICE events and golfing.
According to co-chair Gene Bangayan, “We are looking into promoting golf tourism in Japan, because it’s a sport that the Japanese love. And it isn’t just them; the Koreans are really keen on golf and are looking for venues where they can play as it’s expensive for them to play elsewhere.”
Beyond MICE
Sports tourism is recognized as a beneficial supplement to many MICE programs worldwide. Engaging sporting activities draw attendees, enhances engagement, and encourages extended stays, which in turn supports local businesses.
According to Tanya Rabal Tan, the regional director for the Department of Tourism in Davao, the city boasts three golf courses available for sport-loving tourists:
- Apo Golf and Country Club in Bago Aplaya
- South Pacific Golf Club in Catalunan Pequeño
- Rancho Palos Verdes in Mandug
Davao also has a nine-hole golf course in Mati City named Don Paco Rocamora Golf and Country Club.
Tan mentioned that several tour operators are working on packages aimed at both local and international markets to promote golf in Davao.
