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Sultan Kudarat - Mindanao's
Unexplored Gem
Not much is written about
Sultan Kudarat, named after Sultan Mohammed Dipatuan Kudarat
of Mindanao and Sulu, the great ruler during the 17th century.
Much like its name, the province has so many great things waiting
to be revealed to the world. For one, it boasts of 12 unique
caves, all found in one town: Sen. Ninoy Aquino. There are more
caves in the province that could potentially make Sultan Kudarat
a spelunking haven of the Philippines.
Demographics
1. Population – 675,644 (as
of 2007 Census)
2. Land Area – 675,644 sq. km
3. Capital – Isulan
4. Language/Dialect – Cebuano, Maguindanao, English, and Filipino
5. Divisions
Cities (1)
Municipalities (11)
- Bagumbayan
- Columbio
- Esperanza
- Isulan
- Kalamansig
- Lambayong (Mariano Marcos)
- Lebak
- Lutayan
- Palimbang
- President Quirino
- Sen. Ninoy Aquino
Famous For ...
Kalimudan Festival
It is an annual gathering of the different tribal groups in
the province to celebrate a bountiful harvest.
Caves at Sen. Ninoy
Aquino
The town named after the former senator has at 12 caves that
have been explored and a must-see for any caving enthusiast.
Hot and Cold Springs
The establishments where these hot and cold springs are located
give visitors not only relaxation, but also peace of mind since
most of them are located in secluded areas.
Places of Interest
Man-made
Sultan Kudarat Provincial
Capitol Building
Location: Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
The provincial building is adorned with a huge gold dome at
the center, which is the prayer room for the Muslims. Inside,
there are specialized rooms used by the sultans of Mindanao.
The Hall of Sultans was reserved for times when Muslim Sultans
would gather in Isulan for meetings. Hall of Kings was reserved
for meetings of important Christian visitors of the Province.
Natural
Caves at Sen. Ninoy
Aquino
Location: Sen. Ninoy Aquino, Sultan Kudarat
There are 12 caves in the town. Each has unique stalagmite and
stalactite formations
1. Lagbasan Cave
2. Bitongon Cave/Casi Cave
3. Kalupingon Cave
4. Batasan Cave
5. Midpanga Cave
6. Tinalon Cave
7. Bugso Cave
8. Tudog Cave
9. Kiabuan Cave
10. Saklay Cave
11. Paradise Cave and Falls
12. R.A. Midpanga Cave
Buluan Lake
Location: President Quirino and Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat
It is one of the ten major lakes of the Philippines. It serves
as home to numerous marine life.
Bamban Falls
Location: Brgy. Kapaya, Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat
The area is enclosed in lush vegetation. Swimming and picnic
area common activities in the area.
Fekung Bula Fall
Location: Brgy. New Batangan and Lasak, Columbio, Sultan Kudarat
Its cool water attracts locals to have a refreshing swim in
its waters
Marguez Hot and Cold
Spring
Location: Brgy. Marguez, Ezperanza, Sultan Kudarat
It has a hot and cold pool located near each other. The area
is enclosed in lush vegetation and isolated from the busy activities
of the town. One can enjoy the serenity of life and richness
of its unspoiled nature.
Festivals
Kalimudan Festival
Place: Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
Date: November 21
It is an annual gathering of different tribal groups in the
province and celebrate for a bountiful harvest. Activities include
dancing parade, horsefight, trade fair and sports competition.
The festival highlights the foundation anniversary of Sultan
Kudarat Province.
Bansadayaw Festival
Place: Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat
Date: First week of November
The term was coined Ilonggo root word “ Bansa” which
means “ in full view “ and “ sayaw “,
hinugway, dayaw “ all having connotation of merrymaking.
The festival is highlighted by religious prayers, cultures and
other traditions. The objective of this festival is to unite
the effort of the citizens and preserve their culture heritage
of al tribes such as the Muslims, T’boli, B’laan,
Manobo, Ilonggo, Cebuano, Ilocano, Pampanggeñio and Tagalog.
Pasundayag Festival
Place: Isulan, Sultan Kudarat
Date: September 15
The festival commemorates the Foundation Anniversary of the
municipality. The Festival showcases the skills and talents
in literary, musical and cultural aspects of the constituents
both the young and the old. It is not only unique but is reflective
of a special talent in the person as well.
Talakudong Festival
Place: Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat
Date: September 18
Talakudong" is a historical and cultural spectacle mostly
performed as street dancing and rituals accompanied by exotic
and native sounds of bamboo, drums, kulintang and gongs. It
is a head-covering festival designed to blend the different
Filipino cultures.
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