Tagum City’s undiscovered beauty

Tourism in Mindanao is almost entirely confined only to its capitals and populous areas. Tell anybody that you’re going to Davao and he’ll presume you’re headed for the city. Tell them you’re going to Tagum and you’ll probably receive and incredulous “Where?”

There are so many reasons to explore Mindanao and Davao City is just one of them. In truth, however, there is a jewel close to this famous city but which is often ignored. Tagum City, which lies undisturbed in the heart of Davao del Norte, is a cultural trove, the beauty of which remains undiscovered.

A first class town in the first congressional district of the province, Tagum isn’t your usual city and there are so many reasons why.

To get to Tagum City, one has to take a one-and-a-half-hour ride from the Davao City International Airport. Upon arrival, there will be no buildings and convoluted structures to greet you. Hundreds of palm trees line the many roads of the town. Homey accommodations and hotels, all conforming to strict municipal guidelines, are located throughout the city.

Tricycles, all identically painted green, are the primary modes of transportation which all the more highlight the back-to-basics experience. If there is but one place in the country which detaches itself unswervingly from the clutches of materialism, it has got to be Tagum City.

Without a doubt, the mystical charm which envelops one of Mindanao’s most progressive spots is perfect for relaxation. Its air is free from impurities; its locals are always so kind. Its streets are always uncrowded and the pace is always so slow. To get away from the hustles of urban living is just too easy. Everything seems surreal. Still, there is greater reason for locals and foreigners alike to start recognizing its potentials.

The “Palm Tree City of the Philippines” is home to the biggest basilica in Mindanao. Located at Magugpo South, Christ the King Cathedral is impressive with its imposing architecture incorporating modern and traditional designs. Every day, the cathedral celebrates the Holy Mass in three different languages: Bisaya (as most of Tagum’s locals are originally from Visayas), Filipino, and English.

Outside the church, a park dotted with the Stations of the Cross awaits the contemplative.

Regarded as one of the most beautiful in the south, the carvings of the Stations of the Cross attract Catholics even in the wee hours of the morning. No wonder that it took 12 years to construct this magnificent place of worship.

Soon after the beginning of the cathedral’s construction, another breathtaking sight was unveiled to the public. Reverend Fr. Antonio Franco, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, officiated the blessing of a prodigious wooden rosary situated outside the church’s structure which would later turn out to be the largest in the entire world. Constructed from ironwood, each of the rosary’s beads weighs and measures more than an adult’s hand. As of late, it is quite a popular site and it is common to see flocks of tourists with their eager faces and their cameras ready.

At a time when local tourism is enjoying a steady growth, Tagum City tries its best not to be left out. Recently, it was host to the prestigious National Schools Press Conference, the largest journalism competition in the country. More than anything else, the event formally introduced Tagum City to the various regions of the archipelago. And with the mystical charm exuded by one of the most progressive cities in Mindanao, it won’t be long before Tagum is discovered.

[ Davao City Wiki ]