Eastern Strengthens Commitment to Mindanao with Davao Experience Center, Business Tech Roadshows

DAVAO CITY, September 2026 — Eastern Communications continues to build on its presence in Mindanao with the launch of its Experience Center in Davao City and sustained participation in key regional industry conferences, reinforcing the company's commitment to the region's growing business and digital landscape.

As emerging hub such as Davao and Cagayan de Oro continue to gain momentum, Eastern Communications has strengthened its connectivity infrastructure and customer engagement platforms across these developing cities. This builds on the company's existing operations in the region and aligns its growth with Mindanao's own economic trajectory.

Bringing Eastern's Connectivity to Davao

Launched last August 10, 2026, Eastern Communications’ Experience Center in Davao located at Damosa IT Park, Lanang, Davao City serves as a one-stop destination for connectivity, digital transformation, and enterprise support in Mindanao. The center is designed around the customer journey, bringing the brand to life through interactive experiences that show how Eastern's technology and connectivity solutions help businesses and communities move forward.

"Opening our Experience Center in Davao is our way of bringing Eastern closer to the people and businesses that continue to drive progress in Mindanao. We believe that the strongest connections are built not only through technology, but through being present, accessible, and committed to the communities we serve," said Eastern Communication's Co-Coordinator, Attorney Aileen Regio.

"Davao is a city of opportunity, and we believe businesses have a role to play in helping that opportunity grow. By providing reliable connectivity, enabling local enterprises, and giving back to the community, Eastern hopes to contribute to a more connected and thriving Davao," said Eastern Communications' Co-Coordinator, Mr. Jaeson Evangelista.

As part of its commitment to the communities it serves, Eastern Communications also extended support to families affected by the earthquake that struck General Santos City and surrounding areas in June 2026. The company turned over a donation to the General Santos City Chamber of Commerce & Industry to help address immediate needs and support ongoing recovery efforts.

Beyond the physical space, the Davao center reflects Eastern's broader commitment to meaningful customer experiences, innovation, and dependable connectivity. It gives visitors in Mindanao a firsthand look at the company's capabilities and its evolving role in the region.

From Industry Conversations to Localized Digital Solutions 

Eastern’s presence in Davao and across Mindanao reflects a deliberate approach to growing alongside the region—not just by bringing connectivity to emerging markets and creating a center for clients and partners to witness first-hand Eastern’s services, but by listening to the businesses and communities that drive them. 

Last August 12, Eastern Communication’s Chief Revenue and Innovation Officer, Edsel Paglinawan, shared his invaluable insights on empowering local governments through innovative digital solutions, reliable connectivity, cybersecurity, and smarter public service delivery at the 18th NICP National ICT Summit 2026 held on August 12, 2026, at the Tagum City Hall Atrium, Tagum City, Davao del Norte.  

“Digital transformation is not simply about adopting new technologies—it is about enabling local governments to deliver better, faster, and more responsive services to the communities they serve. With reliable connectivity, strong cybersecurity, and smarter digital solutions, we can help build LGUs that are more resilient, efficient, and ready for the future,” said Paglinawan. 

On the same day, Eastern Communications’ Segment SME and Consumer Segment Marketing Head, Suzel Lim, presented at the 35th Mindanao Business Conference in The Atrium at Limketkai Mall, Cagayan de Oro, tackling Eastern’s plan of action in supporting Mindanao SMEs. 

“Mindanao’s SMEs are at the heart of the region’s growth. For Eastern, we want to go beyond providing connectivity. We want to provide businesses with the technology, solutions, and support they need to grow with confidence and seize new opportunities,” said Lim. 

These industry conversations allow Eastern to move beyond simply offering connectivity. By listening to what businesses need, the company can co-create solutions that are relevant, practical, and built for the region’s unique digital landscape. 

Eastern will continue this engagement at the Mindanao ICT Conference (MindaCon) in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, on November 9-11, 2026. The conference will gather ICT leaders, policymakers, and innovators to discuss Mindanao's digital transformation across cybersecurity, smart cities, digital jobs, digital governance, and innovation. Eastern will contribute insights on strengthening digital infrastructure and cybersecurity resilience for LGUs and enterprises in the region.

Investing in Mindanao's Growth, Connecting Its Future 

As Davao continues to emerge as a strategic hub for business, innovation, and economic growth, Eastern sees an opportunity to grow alongside the businesses and communities that call Mindanao home. The company's initiatives in the region reflect more than an expansion of its physical footprint. They reflect its confidence in Mindanao's potential and its commitment to helping the region's businesses and communities connect, innovate, and thrive.

PCPPI, PepsiCo Bring Pepsi Extra Fizz to Kadayawan 2026

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI), through its Davao Operations, joined this year’s Kadayawan Festival together with PepsiCo, bringing Pepsi Extra Fizz to key food, music, and community events across the city.

Featuring a bolder flavor and bursting bubbles, Pepsi Extra Fizz is designed to complement meals and shared moments. Its Kadayawan presence brought the new product closer to Davaoeños across some of the festival’s busiest venues.

One of the Philippines’ biggest festivals, Kadayawan is a month-long thanksgiving celebration that showcases Davao’s bountiful harvest and diverse communities through cultural performances, food fairs, music, and street festivities.

“Kadayawan is a celebration shaped by the pride, culture, and community spirit of Davaoeños. Our goal was not simply to be present, but to contribute to the experience in a way that felt relevant to the festival. Together with PepsiCo, we brought Pepsi Extra Fizz closer to consumers through the food, music, and shared moments that make Kadayawan distinctly Davao,” said Joongmin Kim, PCPPI Chief Strategy Officer.

Together, PCPPI and PepsiCo brought Pepsi to key festival destinations across the city, where Pepsi served as the exclusive beverage brand. These included the Kadayawan Flavors Festival 2026 at Coastal Road, Kadayawan Food Fiesta at Vista Mall Mintal, Kadayawan at The Triangle, Lyvefest Music Festival at DGT Grounds, Sadya sa Kadayawan 2026 at La Herencia, Fiesta Food Festival at Los Amigos, and The Great Kadayawan Trade Fair and Bazaar at Azuela Cove.

There were also interactive booths at the Kadayawan Expo and Food Trucks Bazaar at Rizal Park and the Kada-Kada Bazaar at Magsaysay Park, with games and Pepsi-Kadayawan-themed merchandise adding to the festival experience.

The company’s Kadayawan participation also extended to festival-themed promotions across select restaurant locations in Davao, complementing its on-ground activations throughout the celebration.

Alsons Dev, Khan Academy Bring Personalized Digital Learning to Davao Public Schools

Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) is expanding access to technology-enabled learning through its partnership with Khan Academy Philippines under the Department of Education's (DepEd) Adopt-a-School Program, providing public elementary schools in Davao City with digital learning tools, internet connectivity, and teacher support to enhance classroom learning.

The initiative was officially launched through a series of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Deed of Donation signings held at Tugbok Central Elementary School on July 14, 2026, followed by signings at T. Awad Echevarria Elementary School and Paradise Embac Elementary School on July 15, 2026. The ceremonies brought together representatives from Alsons Dev, the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation, Inc., Khan Academy Philippines, DepEd Region XI, local government units, as well as school administrators. A total of 128 tablets were formally turned over to the three beneficiary schools, followed by demonstrations of the Khan Academy platform.

More than providing devices, Alsons Dev is also funding three years of internet connectivity, teacher training, and implementation support, ensuring partner schools have the resources and guidance needed to effectively integrate the Khan Academy platform into classroom instruction.

Khan Academy Philippines President and CEO, Atty. Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine, emphasized the importance of partnerships in expanding access to quality education, "At Khan Academy Philippines, we believe every learner deserves access to quality education, regardless of circumstance. While we provide free learning resources, support from private organizations like Alsons Dev plays a vital role in helping schools overcome barriers to implementation and create more opportunities for students to reach their full potential."

Through Khan Academy's personalized online learning platform, students gain free access to instructional videos and practice exercises in Math, Science, and English, with lessons aligned to the DepEd curriculum. Teachers and school administrators can also monitor student progress through a built-in dashboard.

"We believe education creates opportunities that shape a young person's future. Through this partnership, we hope to strengthen learning in our public schools by giving students access to the tools and resources they need to learn, grow, and pursue their aspirations. By investing in young learners today, we are helping build stronger communities for generations to come," said Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez.

The three-year initiative marks the beginning of a long-term effort to make digital learning more accessible and engaging in public schools. It reflects Alsons Dev's commitment to enriching lives by creating opportunities for people and communities to thrive. 

For more information on Alsons Dev’s community initiatives, visit www.alsonsdev.com.

TP in the Philippines Rallies Behind “A Run for Kids with Cancer” in Davao

TP in the Philippines proudly supported “A Run for Kids with Cancer,” a fun run organized by the House of Hope Foundation for Kids with Cancer, Inc., with around 30 employees from its Davao sites joining the 5-kilometer run held at the Lyceum of the Philippines University in Davao. The initiative reflects TP’s continued commitment to uplifting communities and championing meaningful causes. 

Rachel Cacabelos, VP for Human Resources of TP in the Philippines emphasized how “TP, as an organization, believes in creating opportunities not only for our people, but also for the communities we serve. Supporting initiatives like ‘A Run for Kids with Cancer’ allows us to come together for a greater purpose—bringing hope, strength, and tangible support to children and families who need it most.”  

Earlier this year, TP, through its corporate social responsibility arm, the Citizen of the World (COTW) Foundation, also extended support to House of Hope during activities linked to the launch of its Davao Uprise site. These efforts form part of TP’s broader commitment to delivering sustained community impact in the areas where it operates.

Alsons Dev Offers Fun Activities For Families at Northtown Center

DAVAO CITY, Philippines, 1 April 2024 – This summer, fun-filled venues and ventures await in Northtown Center, an up-and-coming lifestyle hub by Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) in Cabantian, Davao City.

Sprawling spaces for outdoor fitness, play, and sports

Engaging in outdoor activities promotes physical health, mental well-being, social interaction, and overall vitality. At Northtown Center, two hectares of open space currently offer the public areas for jogging, walking, biking, and organized sports.

Over 50 kids and teens participated in the Dayaw OCR Junior held at Northtown Center.

Just recently, Alsons Dev partnered with a local sports event organizer, Team Kwago, to hold two obstacle course races or OCR events in Northtown Center. The first race held on March 17 was the Dayaw OCR Junior, a 800-meter race for kids and teens with 15 obstacles to invigorate the young athletes. The following Sunday, the main event was held for seasoned adult athletes and sports enthusiasts. Dayaw OCR highlighted a four-kilometer course with 20 obstacles designed to challenge participants of various skill levels. The race attracted over a hundred attendees, including athletes from General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, and Manila, competing in the team, elite, and open divisions. 

The Dayaw OCR is a qualifier event recognized by the Pilipinas Obstacle Sports Federation (POSF), with the top contenders from the race being considered for the National Team for Obstacle Sports. 

Pop-up park for events

Nothing brings people better than food. Festive food bazaars are slated on April 24 to 30 and May 23 to 31 in Northtown Center to encourage community interaction and provide more recreational opportunities.

Davao Kalsada’s Summer Bazaar is expected to gather several budding foodpreneurs who will showcase their culinary creations for everyone to enjoy. The bazaar will also feature family-friendly activities and attractions like a giant inflatable playground, live bands, and open mic events. 

Davao City’s first CityMall branch at Northtown offers shopping, dining and leisure options to residents of Cabantian and neighboring communities. 

A community mall for convenience and leisure

Skip the traffic! Neighborhood shopping centers like CityMall Northtown offer nearby residents a walkable haven for essentials, local finds, and neighborly connections.

Find joy in daily conveniences such as grocery shopping at MerryMart or a quick meal at FoodWorld. In this one-stop food court, one can mix and match fast food favorites from Jollibee, Mang Inasal, and Greenwich. Child-friendly establishments like Fun Nation and Playville are also now open to offer a safe and engaging environment for youngsters to play and interact with others.

Northtown Center is a component of Northtown, a 150-hectare township project by Davao’s premier homegrown real estate developer, Alsons Dev. Northtown Center grounds are open to the public from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily while CityMall Northtown operates from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day. For more updates on Davao’s newest lifestyle hub, visit Northtown’s Office Facebook Page Northtown Davao.

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte Graces KTM Dukehana Event

Mayor Sara Dutere was the guest of honor during the second leg of the highly anticipated KTM Dukehana event held in Davao City. This event is a motogymkhana, a time trial sport wherein riders navigate to a challenging street course. The first leg happened in Manila and then the KTM Dukehana event heads to Cebu for the third and final leg that will determine the ultimate winner to represent the Philippines in the Dukehana Asia Finals. Joining Mayor Sara Duterte at the opening were (L-R) KTM Philippines after sales manager Nani Juarez, marketing head Ana Lumban, dealer development specialist Abby Nicomedes, marketing associate Jeanna Zimmerman, events associate Mico Lizardo and KTM stunt rider, Ram Teves.

*This is Press Release

A Guide to Davao City’s Buoyant Real Estate Market

Davao is the Philippines’ largest city in terms of land area, and quite expectedly, its real estate market is as varied as the city is wide

The center of one of the three largest metropolitan areas in the Philippines, the city of Davao is expectedly also one of the Philippines’ most urbanized. Similar to its counterparts Cebu City and Manila, it functions as the key commercial, industrial, and educational district of the Davao Region and indeed the entire island of Mindanao, and is also one of the most highly desired in terms of investing real estate and residing overall.

Global real estate website Lamudi Philippines takes a looks Davao City’s buoyant real estate market.

Plenty More to the “Durian Capital of the Philippines”

Having officially garnered cityhood in 1936, Davao City is the main component of Metro Davao, the third most populous metropolitan area in the country. As its center, Davao City serves as the main hub for the region’s commercial, industrial, and educational activity.

What separates Davao City from other major urban locales, however, is that it also has a wealth of outdoor tourist destinations. One of its most recognizable landmarks happens to be Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the county.

From both a tourist and residential standpoint, one of the major draws to Davao City has been its safety. Arguably the safest city in the country already, crowdsourced rating website Numbeo has had Davao City ranked within the top ten of safest cities in the world since June 2015.

Living in and Buying Property in Davao City

Similar to its major metropolitan counterparts, the city has a large population, and in the last census was ranked to have fourth highest in the country. As a city with numerous residents, Davao continues to see the emergence of condominium developments and mixed-use townships in an effort to meet the increasing demand for real estate from its growing population.

Investors considering properties that are near the business district or areas with high and active foot traffic can look into areas like Davao Park District, the first township project in the Mindanao Region. The 11-hectare development is a project of Megaworld Corporation, and is envisioned to become the city’s premiere business district and a major center for the IT and BPO industries. Commercial, industrial, and office spaces are expected to be plenty here, as well as a number of residential units.

There are also existing condominium developments like the Dusit Thani Residences, Ecoland 4000, One Oasis, and numerous others situated in prime locations in the city with relatively easy access to commercial areas, schools, hospitals, and other urban necessities.

Although Davao is highly urbanized, property seekers can also find traditional houses and lots in the city that would be a little scarce. Characterized by extensive mountain ranges and large, contiguous lowland areas, the types of property seen in the city are vast and are able to suit the needs of just about any type of buyer or investor.

Prices of residential property listed online for the city of Davao are currently valued between Php410,000 at the lowest, to as much as Php50,000,000. A coastal city, a number of beach lots are available in the southeast area of the city that are ideal for retirement or vacation homes, or for tropical resorts.

The city’s large area has also allowed it to have a thriving agriculture industry, and expectedly, there are also numerous sections of Davao where farm lots and acreages are situated.


*This is Press Release