Discover the best of Central Luzon with DATO travel exchange

MEMBERS of the Davao Association of Tour Operators (DATO), led by President Cynthia E. Ruano, went on a travel exchange and familiarization tour to Clark-Subic-Pampanga and Bataan with the Department of Tourism Region 3 (DOT 3) last February 27 . March 1, 2024.

Organized by DOT 3, the tour aimed to showcase the vibrant sights of the region and provide first-hand experiences that are memorable for the visitors from Mindanao.

Even on the first day, the group was already enjoying hearty Kapampangan cuisine as the trip started with a delicious lunch at Lola Ima’s. We then embarked on an up-close wildlife experience (white tigers up close!), dolphin and sea lion shows at Subic Bay Ocean Adventure and Zoobic Safari. The day ended with a cultural treat: a musical performance by Aeta in the forest, followed by a scenic sunset cruise with dinner aboard a yacht.

Day two started with a lively market tour in Guagua (Dabawenyos really are bargain makers to the max!), which led to a hands-on cooking experience at Apag Marangle, where participants were guided to prepare local delicacies. Part of the Pampanga Gastrography initiative, this culinary adventure aims to foster a deep appreciation for the region’s gastronomic heritage.

The exploration continued with visits to historic sites such as San Guillermo Church and modern attractions such as Diaspora Farm and the Giant Lantern Center, culminating in a networking dinner hosted by the DOT 3.

Day three was all about exploring the heritage in Angeles City, visiting museums and getting our names inscribed in ancient “Kulitan” calligraphy. We also enjoyed delectable treats at Edna’s Cakeland and Diosdado Restaurant before immersing ourselves in Philippine history at the impressive Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan (the group brought along Filipiniana and Barong Tagalog for a fun time-travel shoot).

On our last day, the group made a courtesy visit to the Shrine of Valor in Mt. Samat, followed by a satisfying lunch at Tangway Resto. We then delved into the fascinating history at the Clark Museum and enjoyed a tasty dinner at Matam-Ih. The trip concluded with a quick tour of the new Clark International Airport before returning to Davao, filled with fond memories of fun adventures and new friends along the way.

A special thank you for our hotel stays: Heritage Hotel for our layover in Manila because the three of us had to catch an early flight to join others, Park Inn by Radisson Clark for two days, and a memorable overnight stay at Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar.

Thank you, President Cha and the twelve travel agents, for the warm welcome as the only media member to accompany you. Thank you, DOT 3 staff and the crazy guides, we can’t forget you. The improvised singing and dancing top my list of unforgettable moments, along with food and rides. Believe me, I gained more friends and weight upon my return to Davao.

(Jojie Alcantara has been writing for Sunstar Davao since the 1990s at a young age and considers it an important stepping stone for her workshops and speaking engagements, travel adventures and shoot assignments across the country and abroad. Visit )