The coming week will see two major economic hubs of Mindanao brim with tourists, business, and creative activities as these two metropoles host major events that are likely to draw a large number of visitors. Cagayan de Oro plays host to the annual Mindanao Business Conference of the PCCI hosted by the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry, while Davao City celebrates the annual Kadayawan festival.

The drawing power of these two cities is evident when I realized, (as I had been flying to and from Manila and Cebu to Davao and Cagayan de Oro over the last few weeks) that flights are full and numerous. In Davao's case, a major airline has announced the fielding of flagship jumbo jets to accommodate additional passengers. Doubtless, hotels and restaurants in both cities are getting ready for an even larger tourist influx.

For context, Davao and Cagayan de Oro act as the hubs of the Mindanao Economic Corridor, which I wrote about a few weeks back. What many in Metro Manila may not be aware of is that at the Davao International Airport and Laguindingan Airport of Cagayan de Oro, 15- 18 flights land daily to and from Manila. Both cities also have flights to and from Cebu and other major Visayan Cities, with the Davao International Airport receiving regular flights to and from Singapore, Hong kong and Doha. This is a far cry from the 1980s when both cities had only about four flights apiece to and from Manila, with Cagayan de Oro’s Lumbia airport unable to allow evening flights, making travel difficult and expensive for many.

Those visiting the two cities at this time will experience a vibrant set of communities hoping to navigate the uncertain world and dealing with its own set of challenges just like the communities they belong to. Contrary to the dreary backwater image long portrayed in our mainstream media culture, they will also notice an increase in commercial activities and a rising skyline. Through Cagayan de Oro you enter the wonders of the Cagayan-Iligan commercial and industrial corridor extending to cities like Ozamis and Butuan. Arriving in Davao, one gets to see the power economy of Southern Mindanao, combining the Davao and Socsksargen regions, the nation's agri-export hub getting ready for increased economic performance.

Moreover, what these two events herald is Mindanao’s festival season. Alongside Kadayawan is the Kalivungan festival in nearby North Cotabato, the Higalaay festival coinciding with the feast of the City’s patron Saint Augustine in late August, and Dyandi, which is a unique take on the San Miguel fiesta of Iligan City in September, and the Fiesta Pilar and the Zamboanga Hermosa festival in Zamboanga City in October. All these gatherings celebrate food, festivities, and culture. You should all try to experience a Mindanao festival in your lifetime. It will help you understand what makes the island and its people tick.

The interest that these events and festivals arouse speak well of Mindanao culture, and its the people. We hope that as interest in Mindanao continues to increase, income and development for its diverse and noble peoples will continue to grow.