Also known as Region XII, Soccsksargen is one of eighteen (18) administrative regions in the Philippines and is among the six (6) regions situated on the island of Mindanao.
The name is an acronym that stands for the region´s four provinces and one of its cities: South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City.
The regional center is located at Koronadal City in the province of South Cotabato.
Soccsksargen offers a diverse range of must-visit attractions, including serene lakes, pristine white sand beaches, and unique cultural experiences, primarily centered around Lake Sebu, the coastlines of Glan, and along its mountainous ridges.
Below is a list of the main attractions and activities that visitors can explore in each province.
Cotabato (North Cotabato)
- Mandangan Mountain Range: A significant volcanic landform primarily known as the location of the Mandarangan Trail, the shortest route to the summit of Mount Apo. It serves as a major entry point and offers various trails, including the New Israel trail and those starting from Kidapawan City.
- Lake Agco: A natural spa at the foot of Mount Apo, Lake Agco features boiling mud pools, sulfuric steam vents, and therapeutic hot springs.
- Asik-Asik Falls: Known as the “Crown Jewel of Alamada”, this 140-meter wide falls is unique because the water springs
directly from the cliff’s rock face through a wall of lush ferns, creating a curtain-like effect.
- Daday Falls: A towering 400-foot (approx. 122 meters) waterfall in Alamada, considered the highest in the town, dropping at a nearly 90-degree angle. Often overshadowed by its neighbor, Asik-Asik Falls, it is considered a hidden gem because its trail is significantly more rugged and less developed for tourism.
Sarangani
- Pangi River: One of Mindanao’s cleanest rivers and a popular destination for its thrilling white water tubing. It features a 1.6-kilometer stretch of rapids, providing a popular eco-adventure destination. The river originates from the Busa Mountain Range.
- Glan White Sand Beaches: Popular coastal destinations fondly referred to as the “Small Boracay of Mindanao” due to their fine, powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. The most prominent stretch is Gumasa Beach, a six-kilometer crescent-shaped cove that offers a quiet, rustic alternative to more commercialized destinations.
- Kalonbarak Skyline Ridge: A premier highland destination, situated approximately 2,677 feet above sea level. Often called the “Summer Capital” of Sarangani, it is famous for its sea of clouds, cold mountain air, and a 360-degree panoramic view of Mt. Matutum, Mt. Parker, and Sarangani Bay.
- Lamlifew Tribal Village: Home to the Lamlifew Village Museum, the first community-initiated village museum in the country. It serves as a living center for the B’laan people to preserve and showcase their ancestral heritage, particularly the intricate art of Mabal Tabih weaving.
- Lemlunay: A popular diving resort located on a cliff in Maasim, overlooking Sarangani Bay. It is best known for its infinity pool and its status as a premier scuba diving destination, with direct access to the Tinoto Wall Reef.
South Cotabato
- Lake Sebu: A key eco-tourism destination featuring a seven-falls zipline and T’nalak weaving workshops.
- Seven Falls and Zipline: A series of seven stunning waterfalls. The Seven Falls Zipline is one of the highest in Southeast Asia (approx. 600 feet), offering a bird’s-eye view of four waterfalls in one minute.
- Lotus Garden: Best visited between 5:30 AM and 9:00 AM when the pink lotuses are in full bloom. You can take a traditional owong (dugout canoe) ride while wearing T’boli attire.
- T’nalak Weaving: Visit the Lang Dulay Weaving Center to witness the intricate creation of T’nalak cloth, a sacred fabric made from abaca fibers.
- Lake Cruise and Dining: Enjoy a floating lunch at Punta Isla Lake Resort featuring various tilapia dishes, the local specialty.
- Lake Holon: A stunning crater lake atop Mount Melibengoy (Mt. Parker) in T’boli, reaching an elevation of approximately 1,823 meters, perfect for trekking adventures. Considered one of the cleanest inland bodies of water in the country.
- Bakngeb River Cave: A 4-kilometer natural subterranean river system located in Sitio Bakngeb, Barangay Laconon. Known for its crystal-clear, cold waters and unique limestone formations, it is a primary eco-tourism destination in the region. Visitors can explore the cave’s dark interior by riding bamboo rafts or through river tubing.
- Tupi Fruit Park: A popular stopover for travelers to buy fresh, affordable agricultural produce directly from local farmers. The primary roadside landmark of Tupi, known as the “Fruit, Vegetable, and Flower Basket” of the province.
- Strawberry Guyabano Farm: A popular agritourism and glamping destination in Tupi, located at the foot of Mt. Matutum. It is known for its cool mountain breeze, cuddle weather, and scenic European-style landscape featuring windmills and flower gardens.
Sultan Kudarat
- Baras Bird Sanctuary: An expansive 2-to-4-hectare ecotourism site that serves as a massive communal roost for over 20,000 migratory and resident birds.
- Lagbasan Cave: Widely regarded as a world-class subterranean wonder. Known for its pristine and massive limestone formations, it is a protected site that remains largely untouched by commercial tourism. A stunning natural wonder found in the municipality of Senator Ninoy Aquino.
In essence, Soccsksargen is an often-overlooked yet diverse getaway that combines cultural experiences, thrilling adventures, and exquisite culinary offerings. Highlights include the T’boli culture in Lake Sebu, the scenic La Palmera Mountain Ridge, and premier tuna dining in General Santos City.
It is quietly emerging as a sought-after destination for nature lovers and adventurers eager to explore Mindanao’s untouched and lesser-known treasures.