DAVAO CITY – The Davao City government welcomed the continued expansion of Davao Global Township in Matina, describing it as a key driver of business growth and employment opportunities in the city following the opening of its Retail Pads and Pavilion on MacArthur Highway here.

City government officials joined YHEST Realty Development Corp., Cebu Landmasters Inc., and other key stakeholders at the launching that coincided with the 89th Araw ng Dabaw celebration dubbed “A Taste of Global Flavors” on Tuesday afternoon, March 10.

Guests and visitors checked out the newly opened three-story DGT Retail Pads and Pavilion, which houses a mix of four food establishments on the ground floor, 12 on the second floor, and four more establishments on the third level.

Joanna Marie Bergundthal, Cebu Landmasters Inc. senior vice president for human resources, marketing, and leasing, said the Retail Pads and Pavilion aim to provide a vibrant space where people can gather and enjoy a curated mix of global and local dining concepts.

In a message read by Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo S. Duterte II, Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte commended the entire developers and stakeholders behind DGT for contributing to the city’s economic growth and business environment.

“Over the years, DGT has developed into a fast-growing commercial center in the south of Davao City, offering a variety of shopping and retail options and dining and entertainment venues that foster job creation and support economic growth,” Mayor Duterte said.

Mayor Duterte emphasized that developments such as the DGT create opportunities for entrepreneurs and residents alike, while strengthening the city’s tourism and community engagement through new leisure and dining destinations.

He expressed hope that the project would encourage stronger cooperation among stakeholders and industry leaders as the city continues to expand its business sector and pursue sustained economic development.

“May this also inspire us to keep moving forward towards our goal of further development, because it is through our combined efforts that we can elevate the Davao business sectors to greater heights in the coming years,” he said.

“The celebration should serve as a reminder for everyone to unite and work together toward building a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous Davao City in the years to come,” Mayor Duterte said, emphasizing that cooperation is essential in achieving sustained progress here.

Vice Mayor Duterte backed the township’s continued development, citing its role in attracting investments and generating employment. “More investors mean more job opportunities for our fellow Davaoeños.”

YHEST President Frederick Yuson said the opening of the DGT Retail Pads and Pavilion marks another milestone in transforming the township into a major commercial and residential district in the southern part of Davao City.

Yuson said the project reflects their long-term vision of creating a destination that caters to the large population living in the city’s southern districts. He added that the area accounts for about 70 percent of the city’s residents and that the South deserves its own destination.

He revealed plans for additional developments within the township, including the upcoming East Village with six residential towers and West Village with five more towers, as well as future projects such as an indoor mall, hotels, and an educational institution.

Cebu Landmasters Inc. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jose Soberano III emphasized the developers’ responsibility to manage and maintain the township for future generations. He added that their role is to make sure DGT remains a place people can enjoy.

City government officials and developers assured that the expansion of the DGT retail and dining spaces is expected to further strengthen Davao City’s position as an emerging lifestyle and food destination in Mindanao.