Building Stronger Communities Together and Promoting Investment Opportunities
Find business opportunities in Digos
We’re thrilled to have your business and investments in Digos!
The Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO) is the dedicated office of Digos City that spearheads the promotion and facilitation of investments to foster socio-economic growth.
LEDIPO assumes the role of guiding investors and stakeholders in selecting, prioritizing, and executing programs and projects. This strategic approach aims to fulfill the objectives of expanding trade, agriculture, tourism, and overall investments within Digos City.
How can we serve you?
Why Digos City?
-
Business-Friendly: Digos City actively encourages business growth with various incentives like tax breaks, free land, and accessible government financing.
-
Strong Business Presence: The city is home to major corporations like Dole Philippines, Inc., and San Miguel Corporation – a testament to its favorable business environment.
-
Modern Infrastructure: Enjoy a well-developed network that includes an airport, seaport, and highway system for smooth operations.
-
Regional Hub: Digos City positions your business strategically as it serves as a regional center for education, healthcare, and finance.
Simplified Business Setup
-
Essential Documentation: Have these documents ready: business name, articles of incorporation/partnership, SEC certificate, Mayor’s permit, and Barangay clearance.
-
Hassle-free Registration: Register your business with ease, either online or at City Hall.
Understanding Taxation
-
Tax Types: Be aware of the taxes applicable to your business: business tax, real property tax, personal property tax, and franchise tax.
-
How Taxes Are Calculated: Understanding the basis of calculation – whether it’s gross sales, assessed property value, or a fixed amount – is key.
Navigating Labor and Employment
-
Skilled Workforce: Tap into the city’s large pool of skilled and educated workers.
-
Wage Regulations: Adhere to the minimum wage set by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board.
-
Employee Benefits: Ensure you provide essential benefits like social security, health insurance, and paid leave.
-
Understanding Labor Unions: Familiarize yourself with labor unions in Digos City.
Land Use, Zoning, and Building Permits
-
Organized Development: Follow the comprehensive land use and zoning plan for proper business location.
-
Building Permits: Obtain necessary building permits from the City Engineer’s Office before construction.
Environmental Responsibility
-
Compliance: Adhere to Digos City’s environmental laws and regulations.
-
Environmental Compliance Certificate: Secure this certificate from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office.
-
Minimizing Impact: Implement sustainable practices like recycling and energy-efficiency.
Public Safety and Infrastructure
-
Safe Environment: Digos City boasts a low crime rate and a well-equipped police force.
-
Emergency Services: The city has reliable fire stations and hospitals.
-
Security Measures: Consider security cameras and guards for additional protection.
-
Robust Infrastructure: Benefit from a developed infrastructure with an airport, seaport, highways, as well as access to electricity, water, and high-speed internet.
Success Support
-
Business Counseling: Get expert guidance for your business.
-
Financing Options: Explore various funding sources.
-
Training & Development: Upskill your workforce.
-
Marketing Assistance: Reach your target market effectively.
We welcome any questions you may have about establishing your business in Digos City.
Let’s partner to make your venture a success!
Mayor’s Message
“Our city’s growth is a shared mission, and together with our stakeholders, we’re fostering an environment where businesses thrive.”
Hon. Josef Fortich Cagas, RN, JD, MPA
City Mayor of Digos City
My fellow Digoseños,
I’m excited to introduce the e-Rev DiGOS (Direct Government Online Services) Investment Promotion Portal – your gateway to the boundless opportunities in our thriving city.
This comprehensive platform streamlines the investment process, offering essential information and resources to help your business succeed in Digos City. Explore our investor-friendly policies, exciting growth potential, and the advantages of our dynamic business landscape – all easily accessible through digos.ph.
Our commitment to progress is evident in recent infrastructure developments like the Streetlights Modernization Project, accessible farm-to-market roads, and the upcoming Digos Wharf. Our city’s growth is a shared mission, and together with our stakeholders, we’re fostering an environment where businesses thrive.
Let’s work together to shape the future of Digos City. Visit the e-Rev DiGOS Investment Promotion Portal today and discover why Digos City is the city of choice for your next investment!
For personalized assistance and to learn more about incentives for your business, contact our Investment Promotions team today.
Hon. Josef Fortich Cagas, RN, JD, MPA
City Mayor of Digos City
Hub and Spoke
Digos City offers a compelling mix of strategic location, agricultural resources, and a supportive business environment, making it a prime destination for new ventures and business expansion in Southern Mindanao. Its central position within the Davao del Sur region provides access to both established infrastructure and a specialized agricultural network.
Digos City’s legacy as a regional center ensures the availability of commercial spaces, skilled labor, and essential services like education and healthcare. The Hub and Spoke model fosters collaboration between Digos City and surrounding communities, creating a thriving regional economy where businesses of all sizes can find support and opportunity.
Role of the City
Digos City, capital of Davao del Sur, offers a strategic location and robust infrastructure for businesses and investors. As the province’s administrative, commercial, and educational hub, it provides access to a skilled workforce, essential services, and a growing consumer base.
Digos City’s balanced development plans, coupled with its proximity to Davao City, create exciting opportunities for businesses seeking a dynamic, cost-effective environment in the southern Philippines.
Digos as the Hub
Digos’ history as a provincial capital translates to established infrastructure, a thriving commercial scene, and a central location within the region. This positions it perfectly as the central hub, facilitating trade and distribution. Additionally, Digos offers access to transportation networks and the Davao Gulf, further enhancing its role as a logistics center.
Spokes: Specialization and Contribution
Surrounding municipalities and agricultural communities serve as the spokes in this model. Each spoke can specialize in its specific strengths, building on Davao del Sur’s reputation as a “food bowl.” Digos, as the hub, can then connect these specialized producers to wider markets.
Beyond Trade: Supporting the Spokes
Digos can leverage its existing infrastructure to offer crucial services like education, healthcare, and administrative support to the spokes. This mirrors its historical role as a regional center and fosters a sense of partnership within the network.
Benefits: Specialization and Resilience
The hub-and-spoke approach promotes specialization, allowing each area to focus on its comparative advantage. This fosters a more resilient and diversified regional economy, less vulnerable to fluctuations in any single sector.
What is a Citizen’s Charter (CitCha)?
A Citizen’s Charter is mandated by Republic Act No. 11032, also known as the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018. It is a foundational document that clearly outlines a government agency’s core services, clients’ expectations, and how to uphold those standards.
What is ARTA?
ARTA stands for the Anti-Red Tape Authority. This government body is responsible for streamlining government processes, reducing bureaucratic delays, and preventing corruption in public service delivery.
ARTA monitors and enforces Citizen’s Charter compliance across all government agencies.
Mandate
- Investment Code Implementation
- Meetings with other agencies
- Data gathering
- Conducting activities on investment promotion
- Reporting
Starting a Business in the Digos
Digos City is the capital of Davao del Sur Province. Its strategic location, between Davao City, General Santos City, and Cotabato City, offers numerous opportunities. The city is renowned for its sweet-tasting carabao mangoes, exquisite civet coffee, and abundant agricultural resources, all contributing to a vibrant local economy.
As the most significant urban center in Davao del Sur, Digos City presents a favorable business climate ripe for investments in diverse sectors such as housing, hospitality, food processing, fashion, financial services, and electronics. The city’s tourist attractions add to its charm, making it an attractive destination for businesses in Mindanao. Its proximity to Davao City, a bustling hub of trade, commerce, tourism, education, and finance in the Southern Philippines, further enhances its appeal.
The City Government of Digos supports new businesses, providing clear guidelines on processing business permits and licenses. Understanding the local regulations, market conditions, and potential challenges is crucial before embarking on this journey. Seize this opportunity and make your mark in Digos City, where your successful business venture awaits!
Utility costs and land prices in Digos City (as of 2023):
| Sector | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity (February 2024) | Residential | 11.2975 pesos/kWh |
| Electricity (February 2024) | Low Voltage Industrial | 10.8525 pesos/kWh |
| Electricity (February 2024) | High Voltage Industrial | 9.5525 pesos/kWh |
| Water | Residential (up to 41 m³) | 35.00 pesos/m³ |
| Water | Commercial | 70.00 pesos/m³ |
| Water | Industrial | 105.00 pesos/m³ |
| Land Prices (2023) | Residential | 760.00 pesos/m² |
| Land Prices (2023) | Commercial | 2992.00 pesos/m² |
| Land Prices (2023) | Industrial | 1222.00 pesos/m² |
Navigating Your Investment Journey in Digos City
Digos City Business Registration
- Secure Barangay Clearance from the local barangay where the business will be located.
- Proceed to Digos LGU Office for Business Registrations.
Prepare the following documents:
- Filled out Application Forms
- DTI Registration or SEC Registration, whichever is applicable
- Lease contract or title covering the property where the business is located, whichever is applicable
- Locational or zoning clearance
- Building permit and occupancy permit
- Public liability insurance
- Barangay clearance
- Fire safety certificate
In the Philippines, registering a company name depends on the type of business structure:
- Sole Proprietorships: Register their business name with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through the Philippine Business Hub website.
- Partnerships and Corporations: Register their business name with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) using their online Company Registration System.
Mandatory Registrations for Employers & Employees in the Philippines
To operate legally and ensure employees receive proper benefits, both employers and employees must register with the following government agencies:
Public-Private-Partnership Code
The Digos City Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code establishes the City’s policies and procedures for engaging in PPP undertakings. Recognizing the private sector’s significance in fostering economic growth and development, the Code aims to facilitate the effective and efficient execution of PPP projects.
Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT)
A contractual arrangement where the private sector constructs, operates, and eventually transfers a facility to the City after a predefined period. It allows the private sector to finance, build, and operate a facility, recovering costs and profits through user fees or government payments.
Build-Lease-and-Transfer (BLT)
A contractual arrangement where the private sector constructs a facility and leases it to the City for a fixed period, after which ownership is transferred to the City. The private sector finances and constructs the facility and leases it to the City, which pays rent during the lease period. Ownership is transferred to the City at the end of the lease.
Build-Own-and-Operate (BOO)
A contractual arrangement where the private sector finances, constructs, owns, operates, and maintains a facility, recovering costs and returns through user fees. The private sector assumes the risks and rewards of ownership, operating the facility and charging user fees to generate revenue.
Implementation of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
Project Identification and Prioritization
Digos City identifies potential projects that align with its development goals, focusing on infrastructure, public utilities, transportation, healthcare, and education. Projects are prioritized based on their potential economic impact, social benefits, and financial viability.
Feasibility Study and Business Plan
The City conducts feasibility studies for prioritized projects to determine their technical, financial, and economic viability. These studies analyze market demand and potential revenue, along with a detailed business plan.
Procurement Process
A competitive bidding process is used to select the most qualified private sector partners. This process prioritizes transparency, fairness, and finding the best value for the city.
Contract Negotiation and Award
Digos City negotiates the PPP contract with the chosen private sector partner, clearly outlining the responsibilities of each party, including financing, construction, operations, maintenance, and potential ownership transfers.
Project Implementation and Monitoring
The private sector partner carries out the project according to the contract. Digos City actively monitors progress, ensures compliance with specifications, and enforces environmental and social safeguards through regular reports, site visits, and audits.
Understanding LEDIPO Private Incentives
What they are: Private incentives are tools governments and organizations use to encourage businesses to invest, expand, or relocate. They can take various forms, including tax breaks, grants, subsidies, and favorable regulatory environments.
Why they are important: Private investment can drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve overall economic development.
LEDIPO Key Strategies to Promote Inflow and Direction
Competitive Incentives
Analyze what competitors offer and aim to match or slightly exceed them.
Create a tiered incentive system based on investment size and impact (e.g., jobs, sustainability).
Maintain a transparent and consistent application process.
Clear Strategy
Target industries that match the region’s strengths and development goals.
Communicate a strong value proposition, highlighting competitive advantages.
Establish an agency or team dedicated to investment promotion.
Streamlined Bureaucracy
Minimize red tape and delays in permits/licenses.
Provide a single point of contact (“one-stop-shop”) for navigating regulations.
Digitize application and tracking processes.
Infrastructure Enhancement
Invest in reliable transportation, ports, power, and communication systems.
Prioritize development near logistical hubs for supply chain efficiency.
Skills and Workforce
Partner with educational institutions to align training with industry needs.
Implement programs to attract and retain skilled workers promotion.
Aggressive Marketing
Create compelling marketing materials highlighting advantages.
Participate in trade shows and investment missions.
Use digital platforms and social media for wider reach.
Investor Relationships
Provide personalized support to investors during and after setup.
Collect feedback to continuously improve the investment strategy.
Invest in the City of Choice – Digos City!
Where strategic location meets dynamic growth.
Important Considerations for Business Facilitators
| Stage | Responsible Parties | Actions | Desired Outcome | Investment Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Policy Development | Government Agencies, Industry Experts | ・Identify target industries and sectors. ・Design incentive packages based on desired outcomes. | Attract investments that align with regional development goals. | ・Research potential locations and incentives.- Prepare and submit investment proposals. |
| Marketing & Promotion | Investment Promotion Agencies, Business Associations | ・Develop marketing materials highlighting the region’s advantages. ・Participate in trade shows and missions. | Generate interest from potential investors. | ・Summarize key incentives and eligibility |
| Investor Application | Businesses, Consultants | ・Research potential locations and incentives. ・Prepare and submit investment proposals. | Secure attractive incentives and a favorable business environment. | ・Research potential locations and incentives.- Prepare and submit investment proposals. |
| Incentive Approval & Negotiation | Government Agencies, Businesses | ・Research potential locations and incentives. ・Prepare and submit investment proposals. | Secure a mutually beneficial agreement for both investor and region. | ・Finalize incentive package based on project scope and impact |
| Investment Implementation | Businesses, Local Workforce | ・Research potential locations and incentives. ・Prepare and submit investment proposals. | Achieve the objectives outlined in the investment proposal (e.g., job creation, technology transfer). | ・Access and utilize granted incentives |
| Monitoring & Evaluation | Government Agencies, Businesses | ・Research potential locations and incentives. ・Prepare and submit investment proposals. | Ensure efficient use of resources and adapt programs for future success. | ・Assess compliance with incentive terms and conditions |
Mayor’s Message
“Our city’s growth is a shared mission, and together with our stakeholders, we’re fostering an environment where businesses thrive.”
Hon. Josef Fortich Cagas, RN, JD, MPA
City Mayor of Digos City
My fellow Digoseños,
I’m excited to introduce the e-Rev DiGOS (Direct Government Online Services) Investment Promotion Portal – your gateway to the boundless opportunities in our thriving city.
This comprehensive platform streamlines the investment process, offering essential information and resources to help your business succeed in Digos City. Explore our investor-friendly policies, exciting growth potential, and the advantages of our dynamic business landscape – all easily accessible through digos.ph.
Our commitment to progress is evident in recent infrastructure developments like the Streetlights Modernization Project, accessible farm-to-market roads, and the upcoming Digos Wharf. Our city’s growth is a shared mission, and together with our stakeholders, we’re fostering an environment where businesses thrive.
Let’s work together to shape the future of Digos City. Visit the e-Rev DiGOS Investment Promotion Portal today and discover why Digos City is the city of choice for your next investment!
For personalized assistance and to learn more about incentives for your business, contact our Investment Promotions team today.
Hon. Josef Fortich Cagas, RN, JD, MPA
City Mayor of Digos City
What is a Citizen’s Charter (CitCha)?
A Citizen’s Charter is mandated by Republic Act No. 11032, also known as the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018. It is a foundational document that clearly outlines a government agency’s core services, clients’ expectations, and how to uphold those standards.
What is ARTA?
ARTA stands for the Anti-Red Tape Authority. This government body is responsible for streamlining government processes, reducing bureaucratic delays, and preventing corruption in public service delivery.
ARTA monitors and enforces Citizen’s Charter compliance across all government agencies.
Mandate
- Investment Code Implementation
- Meetings with other agencies
- Data gathering
- Conducting activities on investment promotion
- Reporting
Vision
Digos as a City of Choice for investors and businesses with expansive plans and exemplary strategies leading to inclusive economic growth.
Mission
To provide quality services on investment promotion, support the development of local businesses, and create career opportunities for Digoseños.
Goals
- To maintain high standard of ethics, quality, efficiency, gender sensitivity and transparency in the delivery of basic services to the constituents through productivity and skill capacity development of employees and all its functionaries.
- To improve performance on local governance through community-based engagement and participatory approach systems which anchored in the context of sustainable development agenda of the national government to achieve holistic growth.
- To establish and operate a responsible system of governance that is conducive to economic, investment and tourism environment.
- To provide effective “Pro-people Programs” for livelihood, health, education, sanitation, social welfare, infrastructure, environmental management to all sectors in the community.
- To create a clean and green city that is resilient to climate change.
- To sustain peace and order to ensure public safety and a harmonized community to live.
Core Values
- Excellence
- Competence
- Value Adding
- People Engagement
- Client Satisfaction
Secretariat
Our Services
The LEDIPO’s Citizen’s Charter outlines its services to businesses and investors in Digos City. We aim to create a business-friendly environment and attract investment to the city.
| Opportunities | What we can provide |
|---|---|
| Availing of Incentives for New and Expanding Enterprises | Support and incentives from the government are needed to start or grow your business in Digos City. |
| Consultation | Get advice and guidance on business matters from LEDIPO staff. |
| Advertisement | Promotion of your businesses through LEDIPO’s offline and online channels. |
| Business Matching | Connect with local and international potential partners, suppliers, or customers through LEDIPO-organized events. |
| Investment Forum | Events showcasing investment opportunities in Digos City. |
| Business-Related Seminars | Attend seminars on topics relevant to running a business in Digos City. |
Digos: Origins and Growth
Early Digos: A watercourse and meeting place for Austronesians settling near Mt. Apo, Digos was ideal for fishing and bathing. The region was influenced by the Sultanate of Maguindanao and figures like Datu Bago, known for resisting Spanish forces.
The Birth of a Name: During the Spanish Era, a misunderstanding between natives and conquistadors about bathing habits led to the adoption of the name “Digos” (from “Padigus”).
Transformation and Growth: Known as part of the “food bowl” of Davao del Sur, Digos attracted settlers from other regions. Pre-World War II, an abaca plantation became a hub of economic activity.
War and Liberation: Digos endured Japanese occupation in 1942, but was liberated in 1945 through a combined effort of Filipino, Davaoeño, and US forces.
The Creation of a Municipality
A New Status: In 1949, thanks to Congressman Apolinario Cabigon, Digos transitioned from a barrio of Santa Cruz to a regular municipality (Presidential Executive Order No. 236). Benito Rabor was appointed as the town’s first Mayor.
Center of Progress: Digos became a provincial capital for Davao del Sur, a commercial and educational hub due to its location on key trade routes. It gained First Class Municipality status in 1993.
Digos Becomes a City
Cityhood Begins: Mayor Arsenio A. Latasa’s initiative, supported by Congressman Douglas Ra. Cagas, led to Republic Act 8798, signed in July 2000 by President Joseph E. Estrada and ratified by Digoseños in September 2000, making Digos a city.
We’re ready to assist you!
Contact our Investment Promotions team.
Contact Us
Questions, comments or requests? Feel free to reach out, we’d love to hear from you.
Address:
Jose Abad Santos Street
Brgy. Zone III
4th Floor New City Hall
Digos City
Davao del Sur 8002
Email Address:
LEDIPO@digoscity.gov.ph
- Monday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Tuesday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Wednesday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Thursday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Friday
- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Saturday
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
Welcome to Digos LEDIPO AI Assist!
You can chat with our AI Assistant in the box below, or you can talk to our AI Avatar by clicking here. Don’t forget to say Hi!
Under the leadership of Mayor Josef Cagas, the City Government of Digos continues to strengthen efforts toward infrastructure development and investment promotion. A coordination meeting was held today at the Metro Davao Economic Zone (MDEZ) with a potential partnership with China Construction to discuss the proposed International Port and Logistics Hub project. The discussion focused…
Continue Reading Meeting on Proposed Port and Logistics Hub Development
Stakeholders Meet to Review Proposed Memorandum of Agreement The Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO) of Digos City participated in a coordination meeting with the Department of Science and Technology XI (DOST XI), Davao del Sur State College (DSSC), and the Hugpong ng Mananagat sa Badiang Association (HUMABAAS) to review the draft Memorandum…
Continue Reading Stakeholders Meet to Review Proposed Memorandum of Agreement
INVESTOR ENGAGEMENT: PANHUA INTEGRATED STEEL INC. CONDUCTS SITE INSPECTION IN DIGOS CITY Today, July 24, 2025, the City Government of Digos welcomed representatives from Panhua Integrated Steel Inc. , one of the key players in the global steel manufacturing and export industry, for an exploratory business visit. The visit focused on the company’s potential investment…
GRAND LAUNCHING OF OTOP STORE IN DAVAO DEL SUR The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Davao del Sur Provincial Office, in partnership with Goodlife Community Cares Foundation, Inc., the DavSur Chamber of Commerce, and the Digos City Chamber of Commerce, proudly announces the grand launching of the OTOP (One Town, One Product) Store in…
Continue Reading GRAND LAUNCHING OF OTOP STORE IN DAVAO DEL SUR
Digos City Facilities Go Renewable Energy Big things are happening in Digos! Mr. Sanada of Advantec Philippines visited the city once again to work with Digos City in finalizing the Memorandum of Agreement and officially move forward with a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the City Government of Digos and Advantec Philippines that will shift most…
Digos City Business Forum 2025: A Resounding Success! The City Government of Digos, successfully concluded its 2-day Business Forum last June 18–19, 2025, at the Digos City Gymnasium. The forum brought together business owners, market vendors, city officials, regulatory agencies, and development partners in a collective effort to strengthen the city’s local economic landscape. Day…
Continue Reading Digos City Business Forum 2025: A Resounding Success!
