Investors flock to Samal Island

DAVAO CITY - Samal Island is Mindanao’s hidden gem - a beautiful island garden with lush foliage and amazing views of the sea, it has traditionally been known as a destination for tourists.

Over the years, tourists from all over the world have visited to marvel at its pristine waters, serene environment, and lovely people. Yet only a few have recognized that Samal has also become a perfect investment opportunity, providing luxurious seaside living amidst a fast-growing economy.  

Realizing that Samal Island is not just a place for leisure, but is also a haven where one can find success – in one’s career, investments, and personal endeavors, is Mikel Villaverde, General Manager of Pearl Farm, a famous beach resort developed by ANFLO Group in Mindanao. 

He continues to be smitten by the island’s pristine beauty and that of its people. “Those sunsets, the light, the peace, the personalities of the people, the workers, because the workers are somehow attached to the land. You cannot think of workers of Pearl Farm if you don’t think of the individuals that are living in the vicinity, and the pride that they take as Samalenos. It’s something that I never experienced in other places that I've been to. It’s different. The beauty of Pearl Farm, the beauty of Samal, and the beauty of the people who live in Samal, is something very unique,” he said. 

Duplicating its success with Pearl Farm and further expanding its footprint in the island, ANFLO Group’s Damosa Land now aims to build an East Coast Hampton-like marina development that will serve both as a sanctuary for sea lovers, as well as a thriving residential and commercial hub. Called Bridgeport, this 13-hectare low density mixed-use development will feature a condominium, premium open lots, a condotel, commercial and dining areas, and an exclusive marina.  

Damosa Land, through Bridgeport, seeks to further boost Davao’s thriving economy and the tourism industry of Samal Island through its sustainably-built premium township that offers successful individuals and families a taste of the luxurious marina lifestyle.  

Echoing the call for sustainable developments, Damosa Land President, Ricardo Lagdameo, said: “We have embraced the importance of engaging in business that has a positive impact on the society and the environment. Therefore, we have integrated sustainability into our various operations and development projects.”

“This ranges from ensuring the livelihood and access to better health services of our people and their families, to adopting environmentally sound practices from the construction up to the management of our properties,” he said. 

Mirroring Damosa Land’s optimism, Atty. Rosemarie Garde, City Administrator of Samal Island, said land values in neighboring areas are appreciating. She credited the uptick in land prices to the entry of property developers. She singled out the luxury development of Damosa Land for attracting investors while also helping mitigate unemployment within the island.  

With the local tourism industry bouncing back, Department of Tourism Regional Director Tanya Tan noted that there has been a rise in interest in ecotourism and nature-based tourism in Samal Island – a welcome development that benefits communities through livelihood and employment opportunities. 

It helps, of course, that Samal Island is located within Davao, which is easily accessible from many points across the Philippines. “Samal is currently our region’s top tourist destination for sun and beach. However, unknown to many, Samal is a complete package. There are eco-adventure, culture and nature-based tourism sites that are worthy to be visited when on the island,” Tan said.  

Recognizing this potential of Samal Island, serious Investors have begun to purchase property in Bridgeport and among them is Atty. Ryan Lofranco, who professed admiration for Bridgeport’s marina development. 

More than the promise of peace and quiet, Lofranco said he was attracted to Damosa’s consideration for the environment, as evidenced in its efforts not to crowd the area with structures. “Hindi masikip,” he said, adding that “Damosa Land is giving a product that has a better return on investment. We do not just look at the money we make, but also the qualitative aspect in terms of health, the serenity of the place, the prestige.”  

As investments pour into Davao and Samal Island, the local government is now working to build a solid foundation to sustain this growth. Last October 27, the Samal Island - Davao City Connector project held a groundbreaking ceremony led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to mark the commencement of the construction of the 3.98km bridge. 

“Once completed, this bridge will help us develop the economic potential of the region, as well as enhance its residents’ access to employment, education, and other services,” Marcos said. “In 2027, this bridge will ease the convenience of travel and transport, bringing forth gainful opportunities for many of our people by providing a link between far-flung areas and economic centers.” 

The region’s growth potential by enhancing mobility, easing access to tourism activities in Samal, and opening more opportunities for employment. Alongside this, “we are working closely with national agencies in the development of our telecommunications system, our power and water facilities,” said Engr. Mario Pacaldo, City Planning and Development Coordinator of Samal Island. Policies are also being put in place to ensure the sustainable development of the island even with the expected increase in economic activity.  

The Local government now welcomes the proposal from inventors and developers to make Samal a second home for Davao residents and the rest of the country, welcoming developments in coastal tourism and residential development. 

Finding a second home away from home can be a challenge when you haven’t found the right investment spot. With Samal Island, you are guaranteed to be surrounded by its lush seascape, Samalenos who are passionate about keeping the sanctity of the island, and a unique culture that embraces the serenity of nature. 

Damosa Land’s Bridgeport encapsulates this beauty with its remarkable unique features that offers tourists and investors alike a unique seaside opportunity to bask in the exclusive luxurious marina that Samal takes pride of. Through Bridgeport, Samal Island is sure to be the next rising investment destination that would propel the economy and tourism of Davao city. (Mindanao Examiner)