Ricardo "Cary" Lagdameo is on a mission. As the CEO and president of Damosa Land, he’s committed to transforming the company into more than a dominant real estate player in the South.

Lagdameo emphasizes the unique commitment of Damosa Land, extending beyond that of most real estate players in the Philippines, particularly in its connection to development in Mindanao. This commitment is evident in the developer’s portfolio on various fronts and in how Lagdameo contextualizes his brand of development as sustainable and responsible.

One aspect of this commitment to Mindanao's development is reflected in the locations chosen by Damosa Land, including Davao Del Norte, Cagayan de Oro, and General Santos. Depending on the specific requirements of each area for fostering development, Damosa Land will provide the necessary infrastructure to support the drive toward localized progress.

Another aspect of this mission is seen in the diversification of its offerings, ranging from townships with residential, institutional, and commercial zones to mixed-use communities, subdivisions, hospitality and tourism-related developments, industrial parks and piers, and office buildings. This holistic approach aims to kickstart development in Mindanao.

Lagdameo has instilled a DNA of sustainability and responsibility in this relatively young company, which celebrates its 20th year in 2024. By operating almost exclusively in Mindanao and discreetly flying under the national media's radar, its advocacy for future-proofing and disaster risk resilience has gone practically unheralded.

Lagdameo admits that championing sustainability has led them to be the first in Mindanao to introduce new sustainable technology and products. Although it might be currently underappreciated, he anticipates a shift in this trend, particularly in relation to their office buildings and international clients/lessees. The EDGE and BERDE accreditations acquired for Damosa’s buildings and structures are valued by global clients as they make decisions on where to establish their offices in Mindanao.

Damosa Land is also big on synergies and partnerships, fully cognizant of how other parties may have a particular expertise, and can contribute to positive and efficient impacts in Mindanao. Two hotels under the Damosa umbrella operate in partnership with PHINMA Hospitality. In Panabo City, a partnership with UP Los Baños will establish an agri-business and environmental school. As the school’s completion is pending, classes have been conducted in makeshift office spaces, leading to the graduation of students.

Regus is a partner of Damosa for office spaces, and Ayala has partnered in creating Abreeza Mall. The Antonio O. Floirendo Foundation has also championed sustainability through farm-to-table initiatives, benefiting local farmers in Davao Del Norte, especially during the recent health crisis.

Lagdameo is proud to mention that Damosa is number one in leasable space in Davao. Thanks to his team’s efforts, Damosa can say their leasable office space is 100 percent occupied. In fact, with a smile, Lagdameo said that with confidence that it’s not 99 or 99.9 percent, but truly 100 percent, giving full credit to his people for achieving and maintaining that feat.

During a recent small press event arranged for Damosa Land, Lagdameo frequently deferred to the two AVPs accompanying him. Macy Bibat is the assistant vice-president handling townships and tourism, and Lora Porras tackles commercial properties leasing. What was unmistakable was the pride they exuded while working for Damosa and their alignment with its vision. Macy relocated from Manila to Davao, while Lora has been a part of the company for 15 years now.

Damosa Land is excited to be part of the future of Davao and Mindanao, with its 20 years marking just the beginning of their journey.