10 Things I make "kwento" about Davao City

I grew up in Davao and I am proud of it. So proud that despite being in Metro Manila for more than 5 years, I still keep my bisaya accent. No need to change to the "Tagalog" way of speaking. Thus, strangers and friends would immediately ask me, "Saan province mo?" and I would proudly say, Davao. Then, they would ask, "San sa Davao?" and I would reply "Sa Davao City mismo." Then the conversation would start.... 

Here are the 10 Things I make "kwento" about my hometown. 

1. Durian - When I was a kid, I did not like durian for an unknown reason. However, when I was in college, I discovered how delicious and special the "King of Fruits" is and it suddenly became my favorite. Aside from its taste, I love Durian for health reasons. Helps me whenever I have asthma attacks. It is also known to be rich in potassium.

Photo Credit: Janice Lopez

2. Apo ni Lola Durian Delicacies - Whenever we talk about Durian, people would tell me, "I do not like the fruit but I like the durian candies". Yes, durian candy is an all-time favorite pasalubong from Davao City and do you know where to get the best durian candies? 

Apo ni Lola Durian Delicacies makes the best durian candies in town. I am able to witness the humble beginnings of this company and how it grew to become the leader in the market. Their sweet treats are made with pure love and highest quality standards. Not to mention, whenever you visit their store in Matina, you will get the best customer service and unlimited free taste. 

For more details about their products and how to order, you may visit their facebook page. 

3. Davao Crocodile Park - Crocodiles are common in Metro Manila especially in EDSA -- ang dami. (hahaha!) Kidding aside, Val has long been fascinated by reptiles thus, whenever we talk about Davao City, it's impossible that this park is missed out. It is home to the famous 18-feet long crocodile named Pangil who's the largest living crocodile in captivity in the country (after Lolong died.) It is a petting zoo, wildlife sanctuary and a recreation all in one place. Thus, whenever you are visiting, make sure you include this in your itinerary. Don't forget to check the show schedules to maximize your visit. 

4. Samal Island - Samal Island is known for its white sand beaches, clear waters and beautiful marine life. Currently, there are a lot of beach resorts now open that I am sure you can find a place that suits your preference and budget. This island is actually no longer part of Davao City yet it is so near that you can afford to have breakfast there and be back at home by lunch time. You can reach this beautiful place by riding a ferry. 

Photo credit: http://www.pearlfarmresort.com/

5. Philippine Eagle - With too much problems going on in the Philippine society, we may feel that there is no more hope but did you know that this rare "PAG-ASA" is from Davao City? Okay! That is out of the topic. Going back, Pag-asa is the actually a male Philippine monkey eating eagle. He is the first one to be bred and hatched in captivity. The Philippine eagle is one of the critical endangered species and you may find the Philippine Eagle Sanctuary in Calinan.

6. People's Park - This is actually the safest park I know. With strict security at the entrance, ensuring that no deadly weapons and illegal stuff brought inside, one can truly enjoy the visit. I love that this place is well-kept and open to the public for free. I remember that there was even free "lugaw" for everyone. This place made me realize that being broke does not mean you can't have a good time. 

7. Drinking Water - Have you ever tried drinking directly from the faucet without worrying? Well, I can only do that in Davao. No need to go to the refilling station for your drinking water because it has one of the best potable water in the world in terms of cleanliness, safety, mineral content, and taste. 

Photo Credit: www.pixabay.com

8. No Smoking Ordinance - Being able to discipline people about smoking in public is such a huge achievement in a country where there is too much democracy. Less smoke means healthier lungs. 

Photo Credit: www.pixabay.com

9. 911 Emergency System - Have you tried calling 911 when you are in Metro Manila? Well, I guess nothing happens. However, when you call 911 in Davao City, it actually works. Davao City is the only city aside from US and Canada to have a integrated emergency response system. It responds to all kinds of emergencies: medical, fire, police assistance and other disasters. Available to all for FREE. Cool right? 

Photo Credit: http://www.davaocity.gov.ph/

10. Security - Lastly, Davao City is known for lowest crime rates and has the best police force in the country. You can enjoy walking outside your home even at 12 midnight without being paranoid. There are CCTV cameras all around the city for monitoring. It is known to be a dangerous place for criminals and a paradise for ordinary citizens like us. It has been ranked as the 4th safest place in the world. (Yey!) 

These are just a few things about my hometown that we can all be proud of.

Why did I write this? Well, It is actually Araw ng Davao (March 16) and I miss home.

HAPPY ARAW NG DAVAO! LIFE IS HERE!