DAVAO CITY – Davao Oriental officials have expressed eagerness to link with more strategic associates like Central Luzon (Region 3) and the National Capital Region (NCR) as the province seeks to expand tourism partnerships.

Davao Oriental Governor Corazon Malanyaon said the linkages would strengthen the tourism industry, as shown with the province recently hosting a two-day familiarization tour with Central Luzon and NCR tour operators, stakeholders and officials.

 “This is a great help for our tourism industry as this partnership will surely open a lot of opportunities,” she said.

The guests were taken on a tour to various tourist destinations in the province, including the Davao Oriental Welcome Park in Banaybanay, Sleeping Dinosaur, Dahican Beach, Subangan Museum in Mati City, Mt. Hamiguitan Museum in San Isidro and Cape San Agustin in Governor Generoso town.

With established connections from Clark Airport in Pampanga and Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, the governor said it is highly expected that more visitors from Region 3 and the NCR will travel and visit Davao Oriental once the airport in Mati City can accommodate commercial flights.

In November last year, Malanyaon and Mati City Mayor Michelle Rabat held talks with Philippine Airlines on the possibility of the Mati Airport’s inclusion in the airline’s list of Mindanao routes.

The governor said they are preparing to open the Mati Airport this year. (PNA)