Davao City, Philippines Hosts Historic Davao-Japan Friendship Golf Tournament: A New Era for Golf Tourism in Southeast Asia

Published on November 9, 2025

The first-ever Davao-Japan Friendship Golf Tournament is about to usher in a new era of sports and tourism in the southern Philippines. This esteemed event, which is scheduled for December 5 and 6, is anticipated to draw 180 participants, both domestic and foreign, and will represent a major turning point for Davao as a developing golf tourism destination.

The South Pacific Golf Club and Rancho Palos Verdes, two of Davao’s best golf courses, will host the event. In addition to showcasing the city’s top-notch golf facilities, this will show how popular it is becoming as a travel destination for golfers from all over the world. It is anticipated that the tournament, which aims to bridge cultures, especially between Japan and the Philippines, will elevate Davao to the status of a premier golf tourism destination.

A Blend of Sport, Business, and Leisure

The Davao-Japan Friendship Golf Tournament is more than just a sporting event. It is a unique fusion of sport, business, and leisure, designed to position Davao as a “good for golf” destination. This event offers an opportunity to explore the city’s potential in golf tourism while simultaneously promoting its hospitality and business sectors. Davao has long been known for its pristine natural landscapes, but this tournament aims to show the world that it also boasts exceptional golfing experiences.

Participants, including both seasoned golfers and hobbyists, will experience a high-value tourism showcase that blends competition with relaxation. With an entry fee of P20,000 per team or P10,000 per individual player, the tournament will provide a range of services, including green fees for practice and tournament rounds, caddy services, shared carts, and meal vouchers. These amenities are designed to make the event enjoyable for everyone, whether they’re competing or attending as spectators.

The Golfing Landscape of Davao

Davao’s growing reputation as a golf tourism destination is backed by its collection of scenic and challenging golf courses. Among these, three championship-level courses stand out. Apo Golf and Country Club, located in Bago Aplaya, is one of the most established and revered courses in the region. South Pacific Golf Club in Catalunan Pequeño and Rancho Palos Verdes Golf Club in Mandug offer a perfect mix of tropical scenery and technical challenges, attracting golfers from near and far.

Additionally, Davao is home to Don Paco Rocamora Golf and Country Club in nearby Mati City, Davao Oriental, which features a nine-hole coastal course that appeals to leisure travelers. This combination of championship courses and accessible, scenic venues positions Davao as a prime location for both golf tourism and the expansion of the sport within the region.

Expanding Tourism Through Golf

The launch of the Davao-Japan Friendship Golf Tournament is part of a larger strategic effort to expand Davao’s tourism offerings. The city has recognized the growing demand for golf tourism, especially from markets like Japan and South Korea, where playing golf can be expensive. In fact, the tournament is a direct response to the demand for affordable and scenic golfing experiences in the region. Davao’s golf courses, with their reasonable fees and stunning views, are poised to attract more international golfers who are seeking an escape from the high costs of golfing in their home countries.

By tapping into the niche market of golf tourism, Davao aims to appeal to affluent travelers who are also interested in leisure and cultural experiences. This initiative supports the broader goal of positioning Davao as a key destination for international conventions, meetings, and long-stay visitors.

The Growing Appeal of Davao’s Tourism Infrastructure

Davao’s tourism infrastructure is well-equipped to handle the influx of international golfers and their families. With an array of world-class hotels and resorts that are ready to accommodate both players and spectators, Davao offers a comprehensive tourism experience that goes beyond just golfing. The Davao Hotels and Resorts Sales and Marketing Association (HRSMA) has ensured that the city’s hospitality services are on par with international standards, offering a mix of luxury and comfort for guests from all over the world.

Local tourism officials are also keen on promoting the city’s safety, hospitality, and business environment, aspects that are particularly appealing to international travelers. The presence of Japanese players and business leaders in the tournament will also highlight Davao’s growing appeal as a hub for international trade and cultural exchange.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

The Davao-Japan Friendship Golf Tournament is more than just an event for sports enthusiasts. It also serves as a platform for strengthening the bilateral relationship between Davao and Japan. This tournament brings together not only golfers but also business leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders who can contribute to further collaboration between the two regions.

By hosting an event of this calibre, Davao underscores its ability to foster cross-border engagements in areas such as trade, education, and tourism. This aligns with the national tourism strategy aimed at promoting the Philippines as a premier destination for sports and leisure tourism.

Golf Tourism in the Philippines: A National Strategy

This initiative is part of a broader national effort to promote golf tourism across the Philippines. Last year, the Department of Tourism launched the Philippine Golf Experience (GolfEx) in Clark, Pampanga, positioning the country as a premier destination for golf tourism. With its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and over a hundred world-class golf courses, the Philippines is becoming increasingly popular among international golfers.

The Department of Tourism’s support for golf tourism is evident in its push to develop and promote golf courses across the country. Davao’s participation in this larger initiative reflects the city’s commitment to becoming a key player in the Philippines’ growing golf tourism market.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Golf Tourism in Davao

For Davao City, the Davao-Japan Friendship Golf Tournament is only the start. Local tourism officials are already anticipating upcoming activities and projects that will strengthen the city’s standing as a top golf travel destination. It is anticipated that Davao will host more international sporting events in the upcoming years, drawing investors, business executives, and golfers from all over the world.

The competition has demonstrated that Davao is more than just a city with stunning beaches and mountains; it is also a destination where top-notch golf can be enjoyed while immersed in a vibrant cultural scene. Davao is positioned to emerge as one of Southeast Asia’s top golf and leisure travel destinations as the city builds its tourism infrastructure and fortifies its connections with other countries.