5 Things You Must Do in South Cotabato

If you're visiting South Cotabato for the first time, you might want to consider the following to make your first trip here easy, fun and memorable.

1. Go to Lake Sebu

Your visit to South Cotabato is never complete without going to Lake Sebu, the "Summer Capital of the South" and also the "Land of the Dreamweavers". Attractions include the Seven Falls, the three lakes namely: Lake Sebu, Lake Seloton, and Lake Lahit. Ride the zipline and and enjoy the view while flying above the Seven Falls. You can also go boating around the lakes and stay overnight in one of the resorts.

2. Learn about the Tnalak and the Dreamweavers.

Tnalak is the cultural emblem of the province handwoven by the women of the Tboli tribe. The late master dreamweaver Lang Dulay, was awarded Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan (National Living Treasure) in 1998 because of Tnalak.

3. Take jump shots at our famous landmarks

Don't forget to bring a camera with you and take jump shots at the vast pineapple plantation in Polomolok or at Tupi with Mt. Matutum at the background, or take a selfie with life-size sculptures at the Tri-people Cultural Landmark in Surallah. In Koronadal City, strike a pose at the rotunda also known as "roundball".

The scenic Mt. Matutum. Photo by Rodson Matulac

4. Taste local delicacies

Must try are Tilapia dishes in Lake Sebu and Hito (catfish) dishes at Pantatan Restaurant in Banga. For refreshment, Apareja Buko Halo-halo at Bo.8 in Koronadal City is not to be missed.

5. Buy souvenirs and bring home local products

Go shopping for souvenir items - Tnalak products, beads accessories, brass wares, wooden items and other local handicrafts. These are available at affordable rates in most souvenir shops in Lake Sebu. Preserved food products like juices, jams, pastillas, tarts, etc are also available at Pasalubong Centers in Tupi, City of Koronadal and Polomolok.