Davao Region
Mindanao's anchor economy where Davao City's 7.9% growth and banana exports demonstrate peace dividend development trajectory.
Davao Region anchors Mindanao's economic development—the southeastern territory where Davao City has emerged as the island's largest urban center and where agricultural exports generate wealth that political stability enables. The region achieved 6.3% growth in 2024 to reach P1.08 trillion GRDP, with Davao City posting 7.9% growth that outpaced provincial performance.
Banana exports define Davao's agricultural economy. The region produces fruit for Japanese, Korean, and Middle Eastern markets, with plantation operations creating employment that sustains rural communities. Agriculture, forestry, and fishing contributed P147 billion in 2024, though unstable weather caused slight contraction from 2023 levels.
Davao City's development contrasts with the conflict-affected territories that historically defined Mindanao's reputation. President Rodrigo Duterte's political base in Davao—and his administration's infrastructure investments—accelerated development that continues under his successors. The city functions as commercial and transportation hub for surrounding provinces.
The region demonstrates how peace enables development. While BARMM and other conflict-affected areas struggle with insurgency legacies, Davao's relative stability attracted investment that created the employment, infrastructure, and services that further reinforced peace dividends. By 2026, expect continued agricultural export orientation, urban growth in Davao City, and the region's role as Mindanao's economic anchor to strengthen.