Davao 2016 Part 1

I have 5 posts on Davao queued, and I’m ecstatic to share them with all of you!

Besides the fun I had at the Mango Abreeza event, I had such a great time at Rg’s province – meeting his relatives, going to all the places and restaurants he and his family visited every summer, and really seeing what the fuss is all about. I couldn’t go at a better time, I think. It just so happens that the incoming president of the Philippines served as mayor of Davao for 2 decades, and it has suddenly become popular for outsiders to visit the city, and familiarize themselves with the Davaoeño-style discipline that everyone was raving about during campaign season.

They walk the talk. I wish I visited earlier!

As someone who was born and raised all her life in chaotic Metro Manila, going to Davao was an eye-opener. No one takes illegal shortcuts over there, and no one shames anyone for being too much of a goody two shoes. You’re definitely NOT cool if you rebel and break the law. People line up properly to ride elevators and escalators. Trash bins in malls are scarce but people keep their trash in their hands or bags until they’re able to throw it out in proper bins. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Pedestrian safety is prioritized.

For a while there, I thought I was in Japan. There is pride in following the rules and being disciplined. Never did I ever feel unsafe while walking in the streets or hanging out in the park. Sounds like my kind of place!

I know I didn’t stay there long enough to experience things that can go wrong, but it’s exactly the fact that I noticed all these things even if I was only there for a weekend that impressed me so much. I feel like us Manileños can learn a thing or two from Davao City!

Anyhow, here are some of the photos I took on my first day in the city.