Dakak Affirms Operational Status Amid Land Dispute Misinterpretation

Dakak Affirms Operational Status Amid Land Dispute Misinterpretation

Amid circulating misinformation about its operations and ownership status, Dakak Beach Resort has clarified that it remains fully operational, not for sale, and is in fact expanding its offerings while opening doors for new business collaborations.

A household name in Philippine tourism, Dakak continues to stand as one of Mindanao’s premier destinations. With its sweeping white sand beaches, lush landscapes, and luxurious accommodations that feature uniquely Filipino designs — including bamboo-crafted rooms and capiz-shell windows — Dakak offers an immersive and serene escape for both local and international guests.

Recently, a Supreme Court ruling caused some public confusion after it ordered the resort to vacate a 1,602-square-meter property in Barangay Taguilon, Dapitan City. However, the legal dispute — which dates back several years — pertains only to less than 1% of the resort’s 156-hectare property and does not involve any areas accessed by guests. Resort management has filed a motion for reconsideration and stressed that operations remain unaffected.

In a public address, Dakak President Svetlana J. de Leon shared that the resort has not only weathered pandemic-era challenges, but is also now focused on innovation, tourism recovery, and strategic partnerships. Inspired by earlier business collaborations in areas like Tagoloan and Siquijor, Dakak is actively exploring tie-ups that promote sustainable tourism and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Over the years, Dakak has evolved beyond being just a beach resort. It now houses nine dining venues, a 24-hour café, multiple swimming pools (including a waterfall-fed children’s pool), water sports facilities, and the Dakak Adventure Zone, home to the longest dual zipline in the country. A highlight of the resort is its world-class golf course, considered one of the most beautiful and scenic in the Philippines. The course’s coastal views, well-manicured fairways, and championship-level design make it a destination in itself for golf lovers. Paired with the resort’s top-notch amenities, it offers a complete package of relaxation and recreation.

For those seeking a truly elevated experience, Dakak also offers helicopter tours aboard the Robinson R-44 chopper, allowing guests to explore Dapitan’s coastline and nearby islands from above.

Adding to the resort’s appeal is its strategic location. Just a 30-minute drive from Dipolog Airport, Dakak serves as the perfect jump-off point to explore Dapitan’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Visitors can walk through time with landmarks like the Relief Map of Mindanao, the Rizal Shrine, and the Spanish-era seat of government, as well as heritage houses that offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past. Nature lovers can venture into the area’s many caves, waterfalls, and mountain trails, making it a haven for hikers and adventurers.

Despite legal noise surrounding a small land parcel, the message from Dakak is clear: the resort is not only fully operational but actively growing. It remains committed to Filipino hospitality, innovation, and tourism excellence — and welcomes both travelers and future partners to take part in the next chapter of its story. (Nelson Santos)