For anyone who wants to have a taste of the historic and landmark events that has a touch of Malaysian culture, they can find it right here without leaving the country. In Sultan Kudarat in Mindanao, named after Sultan Muhammad Dipatuan Kudarat, who was a Maguindanao-sultan reigning from 1623 to 1627, the culture, the places, and its people speak for themselves.
While both places pride themselves with Christian and Muslim influences, the strength of each area extends to the famous spots that have left a global impact on the locals and foreigners alike.
In the quaint town of Isulan alone, the majestic structures and uniquely-designed infrastructures such as the municipal hall and the roundball serve as the center of attraction in the midst of the busy highway and gives an awesome twist to the history of the place.
Although not as towering as the Petronas Towers in Malaysia, these spots showcase the inherent talent of the architects and engineers who built them. More breathtaking in appearance, the famous landmark at Daguma Mountain Range seems like a sculpted work of art with the mountain slope softly cascading down to the fields.
In Senator Ninoy Aquino, the several caves and natural wonders in the area such as the Lagbasan Cave, Burial Urns, Bitogon Cave/Casi Cave, Kalupingon Cave, and Batasan Cave at Kuden; Nati Spring, Kipulao Falls , Midpanga Cave and Seven Falls at Nati give each visitor a distinct look at some underground dwelling.
“We have started our promotions by holding several Mindanao conferences and caving fora in Senator Ninoy Aquino,” says Congressman Datu Pax Mangudadatu Al Haj, who is acknowledged to have changed the traditional Muslim style of leadership. “The world class caves in Sen. Ninoy Aquino are our heritage and worthy to be showcased but must also be protected. Everybody in the province must try to see the splendor and beauty of these natural potentials.”
Other caves that can be visited are found in the following region: Bagumbayan where Pitot Cave and Pitot Kalabaw at Sto. Niño are located; the Bamban Falls at Kapaya; Guano Cave at Masiag; Hot Spring at Daguma; Bai Saripinang Falls, Kinayao Falls, and Mercy Rose Swimming Pool at Sison; Hidden Spring Resort at Tuka; Maetas Cave at Titulok; Golden and DEFCOR Banana Plantation at Sumilil—all are worth seeing for they have stories to tell.
The Colombio, furthermore, lets foreigners or locals bathe in hot springs through its Mayu Falls and the world class scenic Pangadilan. In another town in Esperanza, several resorts such as the Marguez Hot & Cold Spring Resort also has hot and cold springs—only they are in a setting which is more secluded and intimate with nature.
The construction of the biggest gym in Mindanao, similar to Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, is nearing completion.
For those itching to attend festivals, experience the Bansadayaw or the Festival of Bagumbayan highlighted by religious prayers, cultures, and other traditions. The objective of this festival is to unite the effort of the citizens and preserve the cultural heritage of all tribes such as the Muslims, T’boli, B’laan, Manobo, Ilonggo, Cebuano, Ilocano, Pampangeño, and Tagalog.
The Kastifun or the Festival of Columbio, on the other hand, promotes peace and unity among those living in the area by displaying and waving its symbol, a Kastifun logo which has five stirring elements.
In Isulan, the Pasundayag or the Festival in Isulan, is a thanksgiving festival of the residents, especially those involved in agriculture. Different activities such as farming, harvesting, and merrymaking are showcased.
The long-cherished traditions and cultures of other regions that are also celebrated include the Lambayong, the Festival of Kalamansig; Hinugyaw, the Festival of Lebak; and Kanduli, the Festival of Lutayan.
Sultan Kudarat started out as a province of Cotabato but later separated because of a decree issued by former president Ferdinand E. Marcos.
Located at the southwestern part in the island of Mindanao, the province also boasts of abundant mineral resources such as copper, gold, chromium, zinc, and silver and metallic minerals found mostly in the mountainous regions of Senator Ninoy Aquino, Colombio, and Palimbang. Non-metallic minerals are also prevalent—clay, sand and gravel, phosphate, limestone, sulfur, and marbellized stone.
“Sultan Kudarat is a safe place to visit,” says Governor Teng Mangudadatu.
[ South Cotabato Wiki ]
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