The City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) reported a 19 percent increase in visitor arrivals during the first quarter of 2026, with a total of 525,342 tourists recorded from January to March. This marks a significant rise compared to the same period in 2025, driven largely by domestic travelers who continue to dominate the city's tourism figures.
Monthly breakdown and growth rates
January saw 165,867 arrivals, comprising 154,794 domestic tourists, 8,182 foreign visitors, and 2,891 overseas Filipinos. February arrivals increased to 173,344, while March recorded the highest monthly total at 186,131 visitors. Year-on-year growth rates were 18.07 percent in January, 22.06 percent in February, and 17.38 percent in March compared to 2025.
Key drivers of growth
The CTOO attributed the growth to sustained domestic travel demand, the resurgence of meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), and successful city events. The month-long Araw ng Dabaw celebration in March was highlighted as a major contributor to the first-quarter increase. This follows Davao City's strong performance in 2025, when it surpassed two million tourist arrivals for the year.
Regional and national recognition
Tourism gains are also supported by broader regional growth. The Department of Tourism–Davao Region reported an 11 percent increase in overnight traveler arrivals in 2025, driven by stronger domestic travel, improved air connectivity, and intensified promotions. Additionally, Davao was named the top travel destination in the Philippines in the April 2026 World Travel Index Report, which cited its affordability, safety, tourism experience, and infrastructure.
Future outlook
Tourism stakeholders are optimistic about upcoming events such as Duaw Davao and the Kadayawan Festival, which are expected to further boost visitor numbers. The CTOO projects higher tourist turnout for major festivals this year, leveraging Davao's growing reputation as a premier destination for leisure, culture, and business travel.
