SUBILLAGA, ROCHA

FACE PAINTING

Tanyak Tanyakis a face painting custom is unique to Yakan tribal culture. Worn
only for wedding ceremonies; circles, sts and diamond patterns are printed on
the skin using bamboo implements and a thick mixture of white flour and water.
The patterns are said to have no symbolic meaning but have been used for
centuries as a form of cosmetic decoration long before commercial products
were accessible. The Yakan people are among the major indigenous Filipino
ethnolinguistic groups in the Sulu Archipelago. Having a significant number of
followers of Islam, it is considered one of the 13 Moro groups in the Philippines.

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray continues to put the Philippines’ arts and
culture at the forefront of her work as the #RaiseYourFlag series heads to
Zamboanga, Mindanao.
KEYCHAIN
Keychain is a small chain, often attached to a metal ring and a decoration, that
you use to hold keys together.

Key chains are part of our traditions in the Philippines serving as one of the
“Pasalubong” to our loved ones. “Pasalubong is based on the principle of
reciprocity – favour doing or gift giving,”

Some key chains are made not only to be profitable or to serve as a

“Pasalubong” for our families. It also symbolizes certain cultures from diverse
tribes and serves as a representation of different Regions in the Philippines.

Key Chains made by the Tiboli's of South Cotabato.

Dulangan Manobo Accessories | key chain

RATTAN BAG
Rattan is a naturally growing and swiftly renewing vine-like palm that grows in
Asia, Australia and Africa. It is commonly used for weaving and the construction
of wicker furniture. This climbing vine is strong, fibrous, lightweight, durable,
flexible and easy on the eye if I do say so myself. It makes gorgeous baskets,
planters, chairs and, of course, rattan handbags!
Rattan bags are widely produced in the Philippines including in the SOCSARGEN
region. Lake Sebu is one of the Municipalities that produce rattan made
products, building on traditional handicraft products and marketing for
indigenous peoples in the area.

EMPANADA
Historically, the empanada was brought to Ilocos province by the Spaniards and
its former Latin American colonies during their occupation. A Spanish empanada
on the other hand is made out of a wheat flour crust and stuffed with a filling of
meat, vegetables, cheese, or sauce. Empanada became popular in the
municipality of Kabacan because of the vast population of Ilocanos in the
municipality.
 SOUTH COTABATO
South Cotabato, officially the Province of South Cotabato, is a province in the
Philippines located in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region in Mindanao. Its capital is
Koronadal City. Known as the “ Land of the Dreamweavers”, South Cotabato is
home to the T’boli tribe, known for their weaving art that bases its patterns on
their dreams. Lakes, waterfalls, vast plantations and well-preserved tradition,
South Cotabato opens the doors to the picturesque southern region of
Mindanao.

SOUTH COTABATO PROVINCE PRODUCT

South Cotabato adapted the title, Land of the Dreamweavers to promote the
province’s tribal weavers of the T’nalak fabric of the T’boli tribe. It is a tradition
that the woven designs of the fabric are inspired by the dreams of women
weavers. Their booth sells various products using the famed fabric.

POINTS OF INTEREST
The following is a list of points of interest relating to the South Cotabato
province:
1. Lake Holon
Lake Holon is one of the top South Cotabato tourist spots. It is nestled on Mt
Melibengoy, a dead volcano. Majestic walls of the mountain’s crater surround
the lake.

In 1995, one of the walls collapsed, sending down raging waters that killed 53
people downstream. Thanks to local efforts, the mountain now is protected
especially by the native tribes who inhabit it.

According to folklores, 15 unseen spirits guard the lake, making it sacred. In

2017, it was recognized among the world’s “Top 100 Sustainable Destinations.”

Lake Holon is considered a crater of an extinct volcano. You can swim or try
boating while enjoying the lush forests surrounding the lake.

 Trekking Time: 3-4 hours via Salacafe trail, 5-6 hours via Kule trail
 Entrance Fee: Php 100 per person
 Environmental Fee: Php 50 per person
 Guide Fee: Php 80 per person (one guide for 5 pax)
 Porter Fee: Php 150

2. Surallah Tri-People Monument

Surallah Museum is one of the best South Cotabato tourist spots

Surallah Tri-People Monument is one of the cultural South Cotabato tourist

spots. It aims to celebrate the diversity of the province’s major groups which are
the Christians, Muslims, and T’boli tribes.

It was designed by Kublai Ponce Millan, a multi-awarded Mindanaoan artist, and

sculptor. Dominating the monument is a 60 feet-high Tboli string instrument
called Hegalong.

You’ll also see here larger-than-life sculptures of human figures showing the
everyday life of the locals of Surallah.

Location/Jump-off: Surallah Roundball Monument, Surallah, South Cotabato

3. Mt. Matutum
Rising to more than 2293 meters above sea level, Mt Matutum is one of the
prominent hiking South Cotabato tourist spots. Located in the municipality of
Tupi, it is a dormant volcano covered with lush forests.

These host endangered flora and fauna species including the critically-
endangered Philippine Eagle. For the indigenous inhabitants, the mountain is
sacred and precious, thus, they have been defending it from commercial
aggression for centuries.

While atop, you’ll get a 360 degrees view of the surrounding landscapes
including vast pineapple plantations.

Mt Matutum is one of the reasons why you should visit South Cotabato province.

 Location/Jump-off: Brgy Kablon, Tupi, South Cotabato

 Permit Fee: Php 150 per person
 Guide Fee: Php 500
 Best Time to Climb: November to May (dry season)
  Reminder: You need to sure a permit from the Municipal town of Tupi
before climbing the mountain.

4. Tupi Tarsier Sanctuary

Tupi Tarsier Sanctuary is one of the best South Cotabato tourist spots

If you think you can only find the iconic tarsier in Bohol, think again. They also
have it in South Cotabato. Unfortunately, it’s an endangered species due to
deforestation and illegal hunting.

Thus, the local authorities put up a sanctuary to protect them. Situated at the
foot of Mt Matutum, the sanctuary is where you can see the tarsier up close and
learn their usual behavior.

Tourism activities are now regulated. Instead, the local authorities only allow
people who want to take part in conservation to come.

 Location/Jump-off: Sitio Bagong Silang, Brgy Linan, Tupi, South Cotabato

 Contact: 083-226-2800 (Tupi MENRO), 083-228-1404 (MMPL PASu)
 Reminder: Coordinate with the above offices before visiting the
sanctuary.
5. Lake Sebu
Lake Sebu is now one of the recognized eco-tourism spots in South Cotabato.
The Department of Tourism has also been featuring it in its tourism campaigns.

All in all, there are three lakes fed by several rivers. The indigenous T’boli and
Ubo tribes have been living around the lakes since time immemorial. You’ll learn
a lot about their rich culture when you come here.

The lakes are an important watershed, thus, these are protected by the locals.

Location/Jump-off: Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

6. Seven Falls of Lake Sebu

Nestled in the scenic highlands, the seven falls of Lake Sebu are breathtaking
wonders to see. The massive waters feeding the seven falls actually come from
Lake Sebu itself.
When combined, Lake Sebu Falls are among the highest in the Philippines. Want
to know the interesting part? You can glimpse these waterfalls by riding a zip line
that starts at waterfall one.

If you want, you can also hire a guide to take you to the waterfalls and have a
close-up view or even swim in their pristine waters.

 Location/Jump-off: Brgy Lake Siloton, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

 Entrance Fee: Php 20 for adults, Php 15 for Senior, Php 10 for students,
Php 5 for a child
 Parking Fee: Php 30 for vans & truck, Php 20 for cars, Php 10 for tricycle
& motorcycle
 Zipline Fee: Php 300 during Weekends & Holiday, Php 250 during
Weekdays

7. South Cotabato Community Museum

To learn more about the culture and history of the province, check out South
Cotabato Community Museum. It houses various historical and cultural artifacts,
and metal wares, including technological materials from the early 1900s.

It also contains a stone carving of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the Philippine national hero.
All in all, the museum has almost 1000 collections.

 Location/Jump-off: Alunan Avenue, Koronadal City, South Cotabato

 Operating Time: every day (8AM to 5PM)
 Entrance Fee: None
8. Siok Falls
If you want to challenge yourself for a daring thrill and adventure, test your
limits to Siok Falls. It has multiple layers and you can see all of them in one visit.

Many local adventurers love to come here because of its proximity from
Koronadal City. It is indeed a rustic escape from the hustles and bustles of daily
life.

Thriving forests surround Siok Falls, giving it an enchanting feel. If you’re

someone who loves to meditate, there’s just nothing like it here, sitting in front
of the falls while its mists caress you.

Location/Jump-off: Sitio Siok, Brgy Mabini, Koronadal City

9. Gensan City Fish Port

General Santos City is the Tuna Capital of the Philippines. The tuna industry is
also one of the main livelihoods of the locals and the province exports tuna to
different countries.

Visiting Gensan City Fish Port will help you know more and understand about the
fishing community. You’ll also catch sight of live tuna and who knows, the local
fishermen might encourage you to carry one.
Thankfully, the local authorities set up measures to sustain the population of the
tuna.

 Location/Jump-off: General Santos City

 Entrance Fee: None

10.Lang Dulay Tnalak Weaving Center

If you know Apo Whang od of Kalinga, South Cotabato also has their own version
in the persona of Lang Dulay. But instead of tattooing, she weaves exquisite
designs, showcasing the creativity of the T’boli tribes.

In 1988, she was conferred the National Living Treasure Award. Since age 12, she
has been weaving T’boli textiles portraying intricate designs and patterns.

Learn how they weave colorful textiles here and what will surprise you more is
the fact that they do it the traditional way.

Location/Jump-off: Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

11.Bakngeb River Cave
Bakngeb River Cave is one of the newly-discovered South Cotabato tourist spots.
It is a subterranean river with wide pools and crystal-clear waters.

Inside, you’ll find stunning limestone rock formations similar to those found in
Puerto Princesa Underground River.

Numerous bats also inhabit the cave, indicating its rich biodiversity and pristine
condition. To explore it, you’ll ride a raft or go water tubing.

Location/Jump-off: Sitio Bakngeb, Brgy Laconon, Tboli, South Cotabato

12.T’boli Homestay
T’bo Homestay will give you a rewarding and meaningful experience on the lives
of the T’boli indigenous groups. The homestay is known for its simplistic design
made from locally-available materials.

There are no partitions as the T’boli values the communal setup. You’ll surely
learn to love the simplicity of life here including the hospitality of the native
tribes.

Offering homestay experience is one of the strategies of the locals to promote

sustainable tourism. It’s all about living in harmony with the land and culture and
nurturing values of life.

Location/Jump-off: Brgy Sikat, Lake Cebu, South Cotabato

13.Taal Falls
Cascading like a huge bridal veil, Taal Falls is considered one of the highest
cascades in the province. It measures more than 200 feet high amidst green
foliage.

Like drizzles falling from the heavens, Taal Falls generates mists that will surely
blow you away. Because it has a shallow pool, you can try standing on its base
while the falling waters give you a rejuvenating massage.

 Location/Jump-off: Tupi, South Cotabato

 Trekking Time: 1 hour

14.Sebul Farm
Sebul Farm showcases sustainable farming with modern techniques and
facilities. It serves as a learning site of the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI). It
produces various types of crops such as herbs including flocks and poultry grown
the natural way.

As a center, is also provides livelihood programs for the indigenous inhabitants,

helping preserve their way of life or their culture.

Location/Jump-off: Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

15.Hidak Falls
Hidak Falls is one of the off-beaten South Cotabato tourist spots. It lies in the
forested foothills of T’boli town where various flora and fauna species thrive. It
has multiple layers and the highest of which measures around 40 meters.

Hidak Falls carved a wide and deep pool with icy-cold and crystal-clear waters.
Locals love coming especially children to enjoy the view and have a rejuvenating
swim.

Because it is less visited, it remains pristine, a perfect respite for nature lovers
and adventurers.

Location/Jump-off: Sitio Blangas, Brgy Kematu, T’boli town

FESTIVALS
The following is a list of festivals celebrated in South Cotabato throughout the
year:

 Lum’Alay Festival (Tampakan) – January 3

This is a commemoration of the municipality of Tampakan’s Foundation
Anniversary. This festival is a celebration of good harvest of lubi (coconut), mais
(corn) and palay (rice) which falls every 3rd Friday of January. The activities
include street dancing, a culinary arts competition and ball games among others.

Municipality of Tampakan, the festivity was celebrated during the 3rd week of
June, which is 'The Tamfaken Lum'alay Festival'. The celebration were lined up
with different activities and programs.

The programs and activities include; civic parade, agri-trade and display of locally
produced good foods and beverages and jobs fair, sports, and field
demonstration computations, and the search for Mutya ng Tampakan.

The farmers also enjoyed the different traditional and outdoor games such a
Padpad Mais, Kudkud Lubi, Dish garden contest. Among others prepared by the
office of the Municipality of Agriculture. During the event, where various
products were also in exhibit at the town gymnasium.

Some farmers become happier as they received various agricultural items from
the Department of Agriculture DA.

The good Mayor Leonardo V. Escobillo, expressed great thanks for the presence
of the officials and the people of Tampakan. And the Mayor also invited the
general public to visit and see Tampakan festivity.

Tampakan is blessed with agricultural and mineral resources such as corn,

banana, pineapple, gold and copper, forest products and fiber, wood crafts,
bamboo and rattan.With Tampakan bid deposit of mineral resources, no wonder
many foreign investors are interested on it. (Caresma, 2013)

 Hinublag Festival (Sto. Niño)- January 11-18

The Hinublag Festival is held in the municipality of Sto. Nino to celebrate its
emancipation anniversary. This agriculturally blessed municipality is called the
rice bin of the province. The festival is held from Januray 11th to 18th. A
highlight of the festival is the street dancing competition in honor of the
municipality’s patron saint, Sto. Nino.

 Kulitangtang Festival (Tantangan) – January 27

The Municipality of Tantangan, known for its clay pots and ceramics made by
local artisan and craftsmen, celebrates its foundation anniversary and
Kulitangtang Festival every 27th day of January. The festival name is from the
word “Kulitangtangan,” or the ringing of a bell when there is a gathering. The
streetdancing competition highlights the diversity of cultures in Tantangan.

 Pasundayag Festival (Banga)- Last week of February to 1st

week of March

Pasundayag, an Ilonggo term which means “show” or “presentation” is a unique

fiesta celebration which showcases the municipality’s local talents in a week-long
celebration of good life and thanksgiving of the people of Banga.

Banga, the corn production center of South Cotabato, celebrates its foundation
every 1st Week of March with a colorful Pasundayag festival a showcase of
merry-making activities with its week-long events of beer and food festivals,
street dancing competition, beauty pageant, trade fare, bargain shops and street
parties.

 Kamayadan Festival (Norala) – March 1-10

Locals give thanks for a good harvest during the Kamayadan Festival in the town
of Norala in South Cotabato province. “Mayad” is derived from the Ilonggo term,
which means “good.” Activities include a civic-military parade, zumba party,
music competition, employees night and a boxing tournament.

 Seslong Festival (T’Boli) – March 5-16

Seslong festival is a celebration that portrays the gathering of people to barter

goods. The municipality of T’Boli showcases its unique ethnicity from the 5th to
16th of March. Known as the center for eco-cultural tourism, the people of the
highlands reflect the cultural heritage and ancestry of the province.

 Linggo ng Matutum (Tupi) – March 13-20

Annually the Government Municipality of Tupi, South Cotabato holds a weeklong
celebration called linggo ng Mt. Matutum that themed “Amyak Maleh” means
climb and plant. The said event attracts hundred of mountaineers from different
places all over Mindanao. Im thankful for the said activity, because again I got
the chance to climb the 2293 meters (7522 feet) above sea level Mt. Matutum.

 T’nalak Festival (Koronadal City) – July

The T’nalak festival is celebrated during the foundation anniversary of the

province of South Cotabato, and is held in the month of July in the provincial
capital of Koronadal City. This celebration kicks off with the Dayana Civic Parade
highlighted by a float and cheer dance competition and closes with the T’nalak
Parade or Madal Bel’. This colorful street dancing competition offers unique
entertainment. Dancers from around the province, dressed in native costumes of
B’laan, T’boli and other tribal groups in Mindanao, are performing on the streets
of the city.

 Lemlunay Festival (Lake Sebu) – September

Lemlunay or also known as T’Boli Tribal Festival is an annual celebration staged
at Lake Sebu, South Cotabato in Philippines. It is celebrated every third week of
September that features tribal rituals that start at early down amidst sounds of
gongs and native music, culminating at the town plaza where cultural dances and
ethic sports like horsefight are held. However, Lemlunay Festival is renowned by
the 6 major tribes of South Cotabato (T´boli, Ubo, Manobo, Kalagan,
Maguindanao, Tasaday) together with representatives from the different tribes
in Davao (Tirurays, Mandaya, Surigao tribes, Langilan, Bilaan, Bagog, Mansaka).

It was originally just a small town fiesta celebrating the feast day of Sta Cruz.
During 1970’s, the religious feast has incorporated the features of the Mo-inum
or thanksgiving ritual of the T´bolis. The commemorative mass held during the
final day features a unique blend of Catholic ritual and ethnic color. This festival
was from the belief of the T’Boli in a golden age that they called Lemlunay which
means “the good place one goes to in the afterlife”. The word “Lemlunay” is a
sort of Camelot or paradise that they would like to make for their tribe. It is
when the people there reenergize and renew their vow to work for this coveted
state of life.

 Kasadyahan Festival (Tupi) – September 1-11

Kasadyahan Festival, “Sagana Sayaw sa Kadalanan-Kasadyahan”: Celebration
featuring street dancing competition coined from Visayan word “Kasadya”. It is a
convergence of various ethnic and cultural dances featuring Tupi as the
province’s flower, fruit and vegetable basket and a town where various cultures
abode. Held every September 11 in celebration of the town’s foundation
anniversary.

 Flom’lok Festival (Polomolok) – September 2-16

Flom’lok is taken from a B’laan word which means “hunting ground.” The people
of Polomolok celebrate this by showcasing the local products and a mix of socio-
cultural activities. Home to one of the world’s largest pineapple plantations,
Polomolok commemorates its foundation from September 2nd to 16th with true
South Cotabato flair.

 Kariton Festival – October

Every October, Tupi, South Cotabato is celebrating their Kariton Festival. The
celebration highlighting the parade of Karitons (wooden carts) pulled by either a
cow or a carabao made of indigenous materials decorated with flowers, fruits
and vegetables. A celebration commemorating the significance of “kariton” in
the life of the people and the development of Tupi as a whole. The week-long
festivity showcases the farm products brought by the Karitons from the farm and
the role of Kariton in making livelihood of their old and the empowerment of the
women in helping and providing livelihood.

 Helobung Festival (Lake Sebu) – November 9-11

Helobung Festival is held to celebrate the Tboli culture. It is also celebrated to

commemorate the founding of the scenic town settled more than 700 meters
above sea level in the mountains of South Cotabato in Mindanao. It is said to be
the liveliest time of the year in the town.

The festival allows its streets to be adorned with geometric ethnic designs with
striking red and deep black colors, hues that represent the indigenous Tboli
culture. Red represents the bravery and love and black is for the soil, the source
of life.

 Lembohung Festival (Surallah) – December

With the theme, “Kulturang Yaman Tulay sa Kaunlaran”, the people of fast-
growing municipality of Surallah in South Cotabato invites everyone to celebrate
with them this year’s LEMBOHUNG FESTIVAL. Set this coming September 18 -22,
Lembohung Festival is a celebration which aims to promote the preservation,
promotion and development of arts, culture and traditions in Surallah.
Lembohung Festival is now on it’s 5th year.
  Agten Tufi Festival

Agten Tufi Festival, a thanksgiving celebration of Beauty and Bounty, is a

convergence of various ethnic and cultural dances featuring Tupi as the
province’s flower, fruit and vegetable basket and a place where various cultures
abode. Held every September 11 in celebration of the town’s foundation
anniversary.

FAQs
The following are the most frequently asked questions about the South Cotabato
province.

 Where in the Philippines is South Cotabato located?

- South Cotabato is located on the southern section of central Mindanao.

 Is South Cotabato a city or province?

- South Cotabato is a province.

 What is the Capital of South Cotabato?

- The capital of South Cotabato is Koronadal.

 What is South Cotabato famous or known for?

- South Cotabato is famous or known for T’boli tribe.

 How do I get to South Cotabato?

- There are several ways to get to South Cotabato, the most common being
from Manila:

 Plane | 2 hours | $54-$400

- Car ferry to Cagayan de Oro | 34 hours | $16-$34 + Bus to Gen. Santos |
8 hours | $8-$14

 How many islands are in South Cotabato?

- There are NO islands in the South Cotabato province.

 What does South Cotabato mean?

- Cotabato came from the local term kuta wato (from Malay – “Kota
Batu”), meaning “stone fort”, referring to the stone fort which served as
the seat of Sultan Muhammad Kudarat.

 How Safe is Traveling in South Cotabato?

- South Cotabato is generally safe for locals and tourists.

 Is the climate in South Cotabato the same as the rest of the Philippines?
- The climate in South Cotabato is considered tropical with significant
rainfall throughout the year.