DOT eyes establishment of Davao fruit trading hub

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT), through its infrastructure arm The Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), will allocate an initial amount of P8 million to establish Davao as one of the largest fruit market exchange centers in Asia.

Phase 1 of the Asian Fruit Market in Abreeza Mall in Davao City opening by March 2016 will be a short-term venue to showcase the agricultural products of Mindanao, particularly high-value fruits, commercial crops, root crops and vegetables.

The P8-million budget will be used for building the stalls and designated areas for fresh fruits, processed and value-added products, as well as a dining and events area.

“This is also geared towards tourism and in building the Davao brand and enriching the offerings of the destination. We want to fulfill the vision that the department has for Davao and Mindanao.” DOT Assistant Secretary Arturo Boncato Jr. said.

The project also aims to encourage active involvement and participation of the people and the communities in the Mindanao region.

Accendo Commercial Corp., the owner of Abreeza Mall, will provide the DOT and TIEZA almost 1,600 square meters of floor area for free for a period of one year.