Davao Oriental
· PH

Davao Oriental

Davao Oriental, Philippines

Discover Davao Oriental: Where the Philippine Eagle Soars and the Pacific Roars Escape to Davao Oriental, a hidden gem nestled in the southeastern tip of Mindanao, Philippines. Here, emerald-green mountains meet turquois…

#beach destination#eco-tourism#diving spot#natural wonders#cultural heritage
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Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Davao Oriental.

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Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Davao Oriental.

Currency
₱ | PHP | Philippine Peso
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Davao Oriental, Philippines, is '0.6 million'.

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Davao Oriental.

What people love

Davao Oriental, located in the southeastern part of the Philippines, offers a unique and diverse travel experience. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Davao Oriental:

  1. Natural Beauty: Davao Oriental is home to stunning natural attractions such as pristine beaches, lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and diverse marine life. Visitors can explore the serene beauty of Dahican Beach, surf the waves at Mati City, or hike through the lush forests of Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  2. Adventure Activities: The province offers a wide range of adventure activities for thrill-seekers, including surfing, diving, snorkeling, trekking, and wildlife watching. Visitors can go island-hopping, explore underwater caves, or experience the thrill of whitewater rafting in the region's rivers.

  3. Cultural Immersion: Travelers to Davao Oriental can immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions of the indigenous communities in the area. They can visit traditional villages, participate in cultural activities, and learn about the rich heritage of the Mandaya, Manobo, and Mangguangan tribes.

  4. Eco-Tourism Opportunities: Davao Oriental is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts. Visitors can engage in eco-friendly activities such as bird-watching, mangrove planting, and forest conservation projects, contributing to the preservation of the region's natural resources.

  5. Culinary Delights: Food enthusiasts will enjoy sampling the local delicacies of Davao Oriental, which include fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and traditional dishes such as kinilaw (ceviche) and durian-based desserts. The province's culinary scene reflects its diverse cultural influences and agricultural abundance.

Overall, traveling to Davao Oriental offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, cultural immersion, eco-tourism opportunities, and culinary delights, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic and enriching experience in the Philippines.

What to know

Some of the cons of traveling to Davao Oriental, Philippines, include:

  1. Limited transportation options: Davao Oriental is a relatively remote province in the Philippines, so getting there may require taking multiple modes of transportation such as buses, vans, or even small boats, which can be time-consuming and less comfortable compared to other more accessible destinations.

  2. Limited tourist infrastructure: While Davao Oriental has beautiful natural attractions like beaches, waterfalls, and national parks, the tourism infrastructure in the area may not be as developed as in other popular tourist destinations. This could mean limited accommodation options, restaurants, and tourist services.

  3. Language barrier: English is widely spoken in the Philippines, but in more remote areas like Davao Oriental, locals may primarily speak Bisaya or other local dialects. This could pose challenges for travelers who do not speak the local language.

  4. Limited facilities and amenities: As a less touristy destination, Davao Oriental may have limited facilities and amenities such as ATMs, hospitals, and convenience stores, especially in more rural areas. Travelers may need to be prepared and plan accordingly.

  5. Weather and natural disasters: Davao Oriental, like other parts of the Philippines, is prone to typhoons and other natural disasters. Travelers should be aware of the weather conditions and potential risks before visiting.

It's important to note that these cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel expectations. It's always a good idea to research thoroughly and plan ahead when traveling to less-visited destinations like Davao Oriental.

Davao Oriental is a province located in the southeastern part of Mindanao in the Philippines, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is part of the Davao Region and its capital is Mati City.

Early History

Davao Oriental was originally inhabited by various indigenous groups such as the Mandaya, Mansaka, and Kalagan. These tribes had their own distinct cultures and governance systems long before the arrival of Spanish colonizers.

Spanish Era

During the Spanish colonial period, Davao Oriental was part of the larger region of Davao, which was established as a political-military district in 1849. The Spanish influence was limited in the area due to resistance from indigenous groups and the region's remote location.

American Period

In the early 20th century, during the American colonial rule, the region saw improvements in infrastructure and education. However, it remained largely underdeveloped compared to other parts of the Philippines.

Post-Independence and Creation as a Province

Davao Oriental was officially established as a separate province on May 8, 1967, when the original Davao province was divided into three: Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Oriental. This division was enacted by Republic Act No. 4867.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Davao Oriental has been focusing on eco-tourism and agriculture as part of its economic development strategies. The province is known for its natural beauty, including beaches, mountains, and forests.

Significant Events

  • Typhoon Pablo (Bopha): In December 2012, Typhoon Pablo struck Davao Oriental, causing extensive damage and loss of life. The province has since been involved in rehabilitation and disaster preparedness efforts.

Notable Historical Figures

  • Governor Corazon Malanyaon: Known for her leadership during the rehabilitation efforts after Typhoon Pablo.

Important Landmarks

  • Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique biodiversity and the presence of the pygmy forest.
  • Aliwagwag Falls: Considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines, located in Cateel.
  • Subangan Museum: Located in Mati City, this museum showcases the history, culture, and natural heritage of Davao Oriental.

Culture

The province celebrates various festivals that showcase its cultural heritage, including the "Kadayawan sa Dabaw" which, although more associated with Davao City, influences the broader Davao region's cultural celebrations. Additionally, the Mandaya and other indigenous groups maintain their traditions, crafts, and dances.

Davao Oriental continues to grow while preserving its rich cultural heritage and natural resources, making it a significant part of the Mindanao region in the Philippines.