Davao City 15 Years Ago

I came to settle down in Davao City in the early part of 1997. A month after my husband and I arrived here, I started in my new work as a desk editor. Admittedly, I was so excited to start a new job and meet new friends.

It was through my new job that I was able to learn how to go about the city on my own. I had to do it especially since there were times I was tasked to cover some events on behalf of a reporter who was absent or was covering another event hence, was not available.

In my experience, working in the media was most beneficial in terms of traveling around a new place. It allowed me to go to places I've never been to and learn how to find the right directions.(Photo by laz'andre)

I remember there was already much progress going around the city at that time. If I'm not mistaken, construction of some of the first tallest buildings in Davao such as The Marco Polo Hotel and the Landco building started around that time. Also, Gaisano Mall although already opened that time was still a work in progress.

I'm so amazed that up to this day, infrastructure development in the city is unceasing. More modern and taller buildings are being built in the different parts of  the metropolis and they're not only commercial structures
but even the residential types such as the condos.

I'm proud to be part of this progressive city that has earned much international attention. It's my home away from home.

First Encounter with the Philippine Eagle

When Davao City is mentioned, what often comes to your mind? Common answers would be durian, Mt. Apo and of course, the Philippine Eagle.

Back in 1995, I had little knowledge of this city. But when I first visited here, I was thankful that my mother and I were brought to the Philippine Eagle Center by my former BF. It was an exciting experience touring the place and seeing the different eagles including the famous Pag-Asa. We also had the opportunity to see the hatchery and learned additional information on these eagles. It was a wow moment for me.

The photo on the right is with my Nanay in front of that huge bamboo that still caught my attention the third time I visited the PEF Center.

Last year, I had the chance to visit the center again (for the third time) when my family toured my husband's friend who was visiting the city for the first time. I felt great being there and showing my children the different birds. What made the visit more exciting was the presence of a huge eagle outside its cage and on the ground allowing people to see it up close and take photos of themselves with the bird.