Davao Global Township Unveils New Food and Lifestyle Destination in Matina
On March 10, the air in Matina, Davao City, filled with the enticing aromas of freshly prepared meals as Davao Global Township (DGT) officially inaugurated its Retail Pads and Pavilion. This significant event marked the opening of a dynamic new food and lifestyle destination in the southern part of the city, designed to become a central gathering spot for families, friends, and visitors seeking diverse culinary experiences.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Key Participants
Officials from Davao Global Township, YHEST Realty and Development Corporation, Cebu Landmasters Inc., and the Davao City government led the ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the formal launch of this ambitious project. The event attracted a wide array of participants, including tenants, media representatives, and various stakeholders, all eager to witness the unveiling of this new community hub.
Located strategically along Gen. MacArthur Highway, the Retail Pads section welcomes larger dining establishments such as Ahfat Seafood Plaza, Nonki, and Kenny Rogers Roasters, alongside several homegrown and international brands. Just a short walk away, the Pavilion anchors the newest addition to DGT's expanding township, featuring 16 small restaurants that offer a relaxed, walkable environment for exploring a variety of cuisines.
Vision and Community Focus
Jose Soberano III, chairman and chief executive officer of Cebu Landmasters Inc. and chairman of YHEST Realty and Development Corporation, emphasized that the vision for the Pavilion extends beyond merely providing places to eat. "We want people to enjoy the space; walk around, spend time with family, enjoy the fresh air and music, and then sit down again for another meal later," Soberano stated during the opening program. "You can have light refreshments first, roam around, and later have a full dinner. That's the kind of experience we want people to enjoy here."
The ceremony began with a Mass and blessing, highlighting the township's aspiration to evolve into not just a commercial center but also a meaningful gathering place for the community. Soberano even shared plans to introduce a regular Sunday Mass at the Pavilion, accommodating around 500 people, followed by family lunches or afternoon outings, reflecting the goal of creating a space where everyday life unfolds naturally.
Tenant Recognition and Early Establishments
During the opening program, YHEST honored tenants with plaques of appreciation, acknowledging their crucial role in bringing the new food hub to life. Early tenants include:
- Nonki
- Sora Café
- Ramenikko
- Mille Matcha
- Hola
- Flynn's Halo-Halo
- Annipie
- Cravings To Go
- Sips and Bowls
- Naan Stop
- Ice Giants
- Smashd
Each establishment adds its unique flavor to the growing destination, contributing to a three-level cluster of dining and lifestyle spaces that aim to foster an inviting atmosphere.
Broader Impact and City Support
Frederick H. Yuson, president of YHEST, expressed that this development fulfills a long-held dream to transform the Matina property into a destination accessible to more people. "It's a beautiful place, but before, only a few people had the chance to truly experience it," Yuson remarked. "Today, the same land is now Davao Global Township — a place that many more people can enjoy."
In a message delivered by Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte II on behalf of Mayor Sebastian Duterte, the city government welcomed the opening as another step in Davao City's ongoing development. The mayor's message highlighted that Davao Global Township has grown into a bustling commercial center in the south, providing shopping, retail choices, dining, and entertainment spaces that foster job creation, support economic growth, encourage cultural exchange, and enhance community involvement.
Guest Experience and Future Prospects
Guests at the launch received a DGT Food Passport, allowing them to claim complimentary food and beverages from participating establishments, turning the event into a casual food crawl. Laughter, music, and lively conversations filled the walkways as visitors explored cafés, dessert shops, and restaurants throughout the complex.
For many attendees, the new Retail Pads and Pavilion represent more than just another dining destination; they embody the vision behind Davao Global Township, described by developers as "The Address of Amazing," where food, leisure, and community life intersect seamlessly. This development builds on the success of the earlier DGT Marketplace, further solidifying the township's role as a key player in the region's urban and economic landscape.
