As Ascenda begins to take shape in Toril, Davao City, the arrival of its first business locator offers an early look at what the estate could soon become. More than just adding a familiar stop along Maharlika Highway, the opening of McDonald's Ascenda signals the start of bringing everyday conveniences and commercial activity closer to the community, laying the groundwork for a more connected and active district in the city's south.

Developed by Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) in partnership with Anflocor, Ascenda is a 204-hectare estate in Toril, Davao City. McDonald's is its first business locator, opening as the brand's 24th store in the city and its second in the district.

Gale Evaristo, Mindanao estate manager for Ayala Land Estates, sees the opening as a sign of progress for the estate and the wider Toril area. "We are pleased to welcome McDonald's as Ascenda's first business locator. This opening is a meaningful first step in building a more complete and convenient community for Toril," she said.

The store operates under McDonald's "Green and Good" initiative, which promotes more sustainable restaurant operations. Features include eco-panels, LED lighting, ultra-low-flow water fixtures, motion and photo sensors, and energy-efficient cooling systems such as VRF and inverter air-conditioning units. The store also follows inclusive hiring practices, with employment opportunities open to senior citizens.

For Margot Torres, managing director of McDonald's Philippines, the Ascenda store reflects what the brand hopes to stand for in the communities it enters. "We are proud to open McDonald's Ascenda as part of our continued growth in Davao City. Through our Green & Good features and inclusive employment efforts, we hope this store will not only serve the Toril community but also become a place where people feel welcomed, valued, and part of the neighborhood," she said.

Ascenda is ALI's first horizontal estate and largest investment in Mindanao, bringing together residential villages, a town center, commercial areas, and open spaces across 204 hectares. Its master plan, developed in collaboration with international firm Henning Larsen, draws from principles similar to Singapore's Bishan Park, weaving green corridors and waterways through the community. The estate is designed to grow with, not against, the natural landscape of Toril.

Toril has been drawing increased interest as one of Davao City's emerging growth areas, with projects like the Davao Bypass Road and Davao Coastal Road set to improve access to the south. For Ascenda, having its first locator in place is a small but telling sign that the estate is moving in the right direction.