The Davao City Chapter of the Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations, Inc. (Creba) celebrated a significant gathering, blending fellowship with a forward-looking discussion on Mindanao's economic transformation. The event took place on December 16, 2025, at the Royal Mandaya Hotel, uniting both veteran and new members for a general membership meeting.
A Gathering of Industry Leaders and New Beginnings
The evening commenced with a warm welcome from former Davao City Councilor Atty. Diosdado Mahipus Sr.. Creba National Vice President for Internal Affairs Zarah Jane T. Rebagay introduced the national officers, while Public Information Officer Joesin M. Torrejas acknowledged the attendees and partners. A pivotal moment followed as Creba National President Noel "Toti" Cariño formally inducted the chapter's new members, setting the stage for fresh contributions to the industry.
Mindanao's Metamorphosis: From Conflict to Coffee Shops and BPOs
The core of the event was the keynote address delivered by Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro. Speaking on behalf of MinDA Secretary Leo Tereso A. Magno, Montenegro presented a compelling case for Mindanao, and Davao City specifically, as a premier destination for investment, rivaling Metro Manila and Luzon.
He illustrated the region's dramatic progress with a powerful example. "Before, the word Patikul, 15 years, 10 years ago, when you searched that on Google, what would come up were armed clashes and kidnapping," Montenegro stated. "But when you search it today, what comes up are cafés lining the beach of Sulu, with local tourists driving every night." He further revealed that the improved peace and order situation led to the redeployment of a Marine battalion from Sulu about three years ago.
Montenegro pinpointed Davao City's emergence as a top hub for Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies. He credited this growth to the city's stable digital infrastructure and the high level of conversational English proficiency among its residents. While celebrating these advances, he also urged continued focus on attracting investments in sectors like renewable energy.
A Challenge to the Real Estate Sector
Concluding his speech, Assistant Secretary Montenegro directly challenged the Creba-Davao members to become active architects of Mindanao's new story. "The question now is, are you one of us in presenting Mindanao, making sure that we are no longer just called the land of promise, but the land of promises fulfilled?" he asked. His resonant call to action was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience, signaling their readiness to embrace the role.
Leadership Transition and Festive Fellowship
Following the address, outgoing Chapter President Jarvie Harlem Gantalao, alongside Atty. Mahipus, incoming President Engr. Oscar Tabije, and Executive Vice President Ferida Gaw, presented Asec. Montenegro with a certificate of appreciation. Montenegro then proceeded to formally install the new set of Creba-Davao City Chapter officers.
The leadership transition continued with an inspiring address from outgoing President Gantalao, aimed at guiding the incoming officers. This was followed by the presidential message of the new president, Engr. Oscar Tabije. The program also included the introduction of new members and the pinning of officers for the National Association of Realtors.
The business segment of the night seamlessly transitioned into a Christmas celebration for the chapter. A wine parade and communal toasting fostered stronger bonds of unity and camaraderie among all members, capping off an evening dedicated to both reflection on past achievements and excitement for future growth.
