#DumaGeTmE Signage

The vibrant and modern DumaGetMe Sign is an iconic art installation and the primary photo spot in the city of Dumaguete. Located on the famous Rizal Boulevard, this landmark has become a symbol of the "City of Gentle People." The name itself is a clever play on words: the phrase "Duma, Get Me" reflects the incredible magnetism travelers feel when visiting the Philippines.

DumaGetMe Sign. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The sign features large letters with dynamic multi-colored lighting that looks spectacular against the sea horizon and the historic facade of Silliman Hall. It replaced the old "I Love Dumaguete" sign and quickly earned its status as an iconic landmark reflecting the city's modern spirit.

For tourists, it's more than just a decoration; it's a must-visit point on any itinerary where you can feel the rhythm of local life. The sign highlights the city's status as a major tourism hub and a cozy place for relaxation, bringing together both the youth and those seeking tranquility by the ocean shore.

The attraction is located in an open area on the waterfront and does not have a separate office or phone number; however, you can always find it using the official address and maps.

The first and most obvious thing to do here is a creative photoshoot. In the evening, when the multi-colored lights turn on, the letters shimmer with all the colors of the rainbow, providing an excellent backdrop for photos. The panoramic sea view and the lively promenade add a special atmosphere to your shots.

After taking your photos, be sure to take a stroll along Rizal Boulevard. This is a favorite spot for a promenade where you can breathe in the fresh sea breeze, try local street food from vendors, and simply observe the locals' leisurely pace of life. Within walking distance are cozy cafes and restaurants where you can spend the rest of the evening over a cup of coffee or fresh seafood.

Additionally, the sign serves as a great starting point for exploring local history. Nearby are important sites such as the ancient Campanario de Dumaguete (Bell Tower) and St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral. Thus, a visit to the sign is easily combined with a cultural walk, immersing you in the colonial past of this wonderful city.

The attraction is located on the main promenade, Rizal Boulevard, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city center. If you are in the Silliman University area or staying at hotels along the coast, the walk will take no more than 5–10 minutes. The waterfront is the heart of city life, so any local will be able to point you in the right direction.

The most popular way to get around Dumaguete is by tricycle (local motorized rickshaws). A ride across the city to the waterfront will cost a nominal amount of about 10–20 Philippine pesos. You can also use taxi services or the Grab app if you prefer more comfortable transportation.

For those arriving from other regions, the landmark is Sibulan Airport (Dumaguete Airport), from where a taxi ride to the sign will take about 20–30 minutes. If you arrive by ferry, you can walk from the port to the sign in literally 10 minutes while enjoying the coastal scenery.

The history of this popular spot began with a different installation — "I Love Dumaguete," which was erected in 2013. However, the proximity to the open sea proved to be a serious challenge for the structure: salt air, the scorching sun, and tropical storms gradually wore down the steel and acrylic. Despite repairs in 2016, strong winds eventually toppled the old sign, prompting city authorities to create something more durable and modern.

The new DumaGetMe sign was officially unveiled and illuminated in February 2021. The new name became more than just a tourism brand; it is a symbol of the city's progress as it actively develops into a key tourism and educational center. Authorities paid special attention to the durability of the materials and the quality of the lighting to ensure the sign could withstand the whims of nature.

Looking more broadly, Dumaguete itself has a rich history dating back to 1620. Its name comes from the Visayan word "daggit," which means "to snatch" — in ancient times, the city was often raided by pirates who "snatched" local residents. Today, the city "steals" only the hearts of tourists with its hospitality and the charm of its waterfront.

To simply snap a few good shots in front of the famous letters, 15–30 minutes will be quite enough. There are usually no long queues, and tourists move quickly while waiting for the perfect angle.

However, we recommend setting aside at least 1–2 hours for this location. The DumaGetMe sign is located on a beautiful boulevard where it’s pleasant to walk under the sea breeze, watch the local life, and enjoy the view of historic buildings. It is especially nice to spend time here at sunset, transitioning into an evening dinner at one of the nearby cafes.

The attraction is located in a public open-air area, so it is open 24/7. You can visit at any time of the day or night; access to the site is completely free.

Monday — Sunday: Open 24 hours. Keep in mind that the striking illumination turns on in the evening, so for the most vibrant experience, it's worth planning your visit after sunset.

Exploring the surroundings of Rizal Boulevard can significantly enrich your travel experience. The area around the DumaGetMe sign is filled with historical buildings and memorials that reflect the colonial past and cultural heritage of Negros Island.

Strolling within a radius of just a few hundred meters, you will find old university halls and religious monuments that harmonize with modern cafes and recreation areas.