Cotabato Province, Philippines

People of Cotabato Province

• As of the 2020 Census, Cotabato Province had a population of 1,490,618.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 1,379,747, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 8% over five years.
• Cotabato is home to several indigenous groups including the Manobo, Bagobo, Teduray, and Ilianen peoples. These communities have deep ancestral ties to the forests, rivers, and highlands of Central Mindanao, with rich traditions in weaving, oral storytelling, and forest stewardship.
• The major dialect spoken is Hiligaynon and Cebuano, though indigenous languages such as Manobo and Bagobo are still used in tribal barangays. While these dialects reflect local heritage, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Cotabato Province

• Cotabato Province is located in Central Mindanao, within Region XII (Soccsksargen). Its geographic coordinates center around 7.0°N latitude and 124.9°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 9,317.30 square kilometers, bordered by Bukidnon to the north, Maguindanao del Norte to the west, and Davao del Sur to the east. Its terrain includes fertile plains, river valleys, and mountain ranges such as Mount Apo and Mount Kalatungan. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The capital of Cotabato Province is Kidapawan City. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Amas, which also houses the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and other government offices.
• Most people reach Cotabato via land transport. Kidapawan City is accessible by bus from Davao City (approximately 3–4 hours) and General Santos City (around 5 hours). The nearest airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City. The Port of General Santos serves as the nearest major seaport, with travel time to Kidapawan by bus averaging 5–6 hours.

Tourist Attractions of Cotabato Province

• Mount Apo: The highest peak in the Philippines, accessible via Kidapawan and Magpet, ideal for trekking and biodiversity tours.
• Lake Agco: A hot spring-fed lake at the foot of Mount Apo, popular for nature retreats and therapeutic baths.
• Kutawato Caves: A historic cave system in Cotabato City with tunnels used during World War II.
• Kalivungan Festival: Celebrated every August in Kidapawan City, this festival showcases the province’s cultural diversity through street dancing, tribal rituals, and agri-trade exhibits.

Economy of Cotabato Province

• The province’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include rubber, banana, rice, corn, coconut, and coffee.
  • Agro-industrial processing: Facilities process rubber, copra, and food products for regional distribution.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, mountain resorts, and cultural sites contribute to seasonal income.
  • Retail and services: Kidapawan and Midsayap serve as commercial hubs for trade and logistics.
• Cotabato is classified as a 1st-class province. While province-specific GDP data is limited, it contributes significantly to the Soccsksargen Region’s economy, especially in agriculture and tourism.

Educational Institutions of Cotabato Province

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of Southern Mindanao (USM): A state university in Kabacan offering programs in agriculture, engineering, education, and science.
  • Central Mindanao Colleges: A private institution in Kidapawan offering liberal arts, business, and health sciences.
  • Notre Dame of Midsayap College: Offers programs in education, criminology, and theology.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public and private secondary schools: Each municipality has DepEd-supported high schools and senior high programs.

History of Cotabato Province

• Cotabato was originally part of the vast undivided Cotabato Province, which included areas now under Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, and parts of Lanao del Sur. The name “Cotabato” is derived from the Maguindanaon word “Kuta Wato,” meaning “fort of stone.”
• The province was officially reorganized on November 22, 1973 through Presidential Decree No. 341, which divided the old Cotabato into North Cotabato (now Cotabato), Maguindanao, and Sultan Kudarat. Kidapawan was designated as the capital of the newly formed Cotabato Province.
• Over the years, Cotabato has become a melting pot of cultures—home to Christian settlers, Muslim communities, and indigenous tribes. Its strategic location and fertile lands attracted migration and investment, especially in agriculture and education.
• Today, Cotabato Province is known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and agricultural vitality. It continues to grow through infrastructure development, eco-tourism, and regional cooperation.

Elected Officials of Cotabato Province

• As of the 2025 elections, Cotabato Province is led by:
  • Governor: Lala Taliño-Mendoza
  • Vice Governor: Ella Taray
  • Representative – 1st District: Edwin Cruzado
  • Representative – 2nd District: Rudy Caoagdan
  • Representative – 3rd District: Samantha Santos
  • Board Members – 1st District: Neneng Macasarte, Sittie Eljorie Antao, BM Rose Cabaya, Roland Jungco, Tot Calibara
  • Board Members – 2nd District: Official list available via Cotabato Election Results.

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