Cotabato City, Philippines

Cotabato City, Maguindanao del Norte is within Region XV – BARMM, in the Republic of the Philippines.

Barangays of Cotabato City, in the Maguindanao del Norte province, within Region XV BARMM Bangsamoro in the Republic of The Philippines

People of Cotabato City

As of the 2020 Census, Cotabato City had a population of 325,079.
In 2015, the city recorded a population of 299,438, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 8.5% over five years.
Cotabato City is historically home to the Maguindanaon people, who trace their roots to the Sultanate of Maguindanao. Other indigenous and ethnolinguistic groups include Iranun, Tausug, and Teduray, alongside Christian settlers from Visayas and Luzon.
The major dialect spoken is Maguindanaon, with Cebuano, Tagalog, and Chavacano also widely used. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Cotabato City

Cotabato City is located in central Mindanao, on the northeastern shore of the Rio Grande de Mindanao. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 7.22°N latitude and 124.25°E longitude.
The city spans a land area of 176 square kilometers, comprising 37 barangays. Its terrain includes riverbanks, marshlands, and lowland plains. The climate is tropical, with high humidity and a pronounced wet season.
Cotabato City is an independent component city and serves as the regional center of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The City Hall is located in Barangay Rosary Heights VII, which also houses the Bangsamoro Government Center.
Most people reach Cotabato City via land and air. The Awang Airport in nearby Datu Odin Sinsuat serves domestic flights, while Polloc Port in Parang is the nearest seaport. Bus and van terminals connect Cotabato to General Santos, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro.

Tourist Attractions of Cotabato City

Sultan Kudarat Monument: A tribute to the legendary Maguindanaon ruler, located at the city plaza.
Old Cotabato City Hall: A heritage building showcasing colonial architecture and local history.
Kutawato Cave: A natural limestone cave system located within the city proper, historically used as a refuge and passageway.
Shariff Kabunsuan Festival: Celebrated every December, this festival commemorates the arrival of Islam in Mindanao through boat races, cultural parades, and Qur’anic recitations.

Economy of Cotabato City

Cotabato City’s economy is anchored in:
- Trade and commerce: The city is a major commercial hub in BARMM, with markets, malls, and cooperatives.
- Public administration: As the regional seat of BARMM, it hosts ministries, agencies, and civic institutions.
- Education and services: Universities, hospitals, and private enterprises contribute to employment and growth.
- Agriculture and fisheries: Surrounding areas supply rice, corn, fish, and halal products to city markets.
While city-specific GDP data is limited, Cotabato ranks among the top-performing urban centers in Mindanao and plays a vital role in the economic framework of BARMM.

Educational Institutions of Cotabato City

Young residents pursue higher education at:
- Cotabato State University: A public institution offering programs in engineering, education, agriculture, and health sciences. It is included under the Free Tuition Law.
- Notre Dame University: A private Catholic university offering liberal arts, law, business, and graduate programs. Founded in 1948, it is one of the oldest institutions in the region.
- AMA Computer University – Cotabato Campus: Offers IT, business, and technical programs.
- North Valley College Foundation: A private college offering programs in education, nursing, and criminology.
- TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in electronics, culinary arts, automotive technology, and other trades.

History of Cotabato City

Cotabato City traces its origins to the Sultanate of Maguindanao, established in the early 16th century by Shariff Kabunsuan, an Arab missionary who introduced Islam to the region. The name “Cotabato” comes from “Kuta Wato,” meaning “stone fort,” referencing the limestone caves used for defense and refuge.
Under Spanish rule, Cotabato became a military post and later a municipal district. The Americans formalized its governance and infrastructure, and the city grew as a center of trade and education in Mindanao.
On June 20, 1959, Cotabato was officially converted into a chartered city through Republic Act No. 2364. It became an independent component city in 1979, administratively separate from any province.
Today, Cotabato City is the political and administrative heart of BARMM. It continues to evolve through peacebuilding, infrastructure development, and cultural preservation, serving as a bridge between Muslim and Christian communities in Mindanao.

Elected Officials of Cotabato City

As of the 2025 elections, Cotabato City is led by:
- Mayor: Bruce V. Matabalao
- Vice Mayor: Mohammad Ali M. Matabalao
- Representative – Lone District: Bai Dimple Mastura
- City Councilors: Mohammad Bruce M. Matabalao Jr., Sittie Aisa M. Dilangalen, Abdulwahid Sayadi, Bai Norhaya M. Sinsuat, Abdulrahman M. Dilangalen, Bai Fatima M. Sinsuat, Mohammad Omar M. Pasigan, Bai Sittie Amina M. Mastura, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
For full election results and updates, visit: Cotabato City Election Results.

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.

List of Cities in the Philippines