City (pop., 2000: metro. area, 1,147,116), southeastern Mindanao Island, Philippines.
Located at the mouth of the Davao River on Davao Gulf, it is an international port and the leading commercial centre in the region. It developed as a Japanese colony. Razed during World War II, the rebuilt city is a blend of Spanish, American, and Moorish influences. Largely rural outside its urban core, it is one of the world's largest cities in area, covering 854 sq mi (2,212 sq km). It is the site of the University of Mindanao (1946).