Kidapawan City, North Cotabato, Philippines

People of Kidapawan City

• As of the 2020 Census, Kidapawan City had a population of 160,791.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 140,195, reflecting a growth of over 20,000 residents in five years.
• Kidapawan is historically home to the Manobo and Bagobo peoples, indigenous communities known for their rich oral traditions, forest stewardship, and vibrant weaving practices. These groups have ancestral domains in the highlands surrounding Mount Apo.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Hiligaynon and Ilocano are also widely used due to migration. Indigenous languages such as Manobo and Bagobo are still spoken in tribal barangays. While these dialects reflect cultural heritage, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Kidapawan City

• Kidapawan City is located in Central Mindanao, within the province of Cotabato and Region XII (Soccsksargen). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 7.0083°N latitude and 125.0916°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 358.47 square kilometers, comprising 40 barangays. It is landlocked and situated at the foot of Mount Apo, with terrain that includes fertile plains, river valleys, and forested uplands. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• Kidapawan serves as the capital of Cotabato Province. The City Hall is located in Barangay Poblacion, while the Provincial Capitol is situated in Barangay Amas.
• Most people reach Kidapawan via land transport. It is accessible by bus or van 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 Kidapawan City

• Mount Apo: The highest peak in the Philippines, accessible via Kidapawan, ideal for trekking, camping, and biodiversity tours.
• Lake Agco: A hot spring-fed lake nestled in the forested slopes of Mount Apo, popular for nature retreats and therapeutic baths.
• Paniki Falls Eco-Park: A scenic waterfall and nature park located in Barangay Ilomavis.
• Kidapawan City Fruit Festival: Celebrated every August, this festival showcases the city’s agricultural bounty—especially its famous durian, lanzones, and mangosteen—through street dancing, exhibits, and culinary contests.

Economy of Kidapawan City

• Kidapawan’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: The city is a major producer of fruits such as durian, mangosteen, lanzones, and banana, as well as rice, corn, and rubber.
  • Agro-industrial processing: Facilities process rubber, copra, and fruit products for regional distribution.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, mountain resorts, and cultural festivals contribute to seasonal income.
  • Retail and services: Kidapawan serves as a commercial hub for eastern Cotabato, with malls, markets, and logistics centers.
• Kidapawan is classified as a 3rd-class component city. While city-specific GDP data is limited, it contributes significantly to Cotabato Province’s economy, especially in agriculture and tourism.

Educational Institutions of Kidapawan City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Central Mindanao Colleges: A private institution offering programs in liberal arts, business, education, and health sciences.
  • University of Southern Mindanao – Kidapawan Extension: Offers agriculture, engineering, and teacher education programs.
  • Kidapawan Doctors College: Specializes in allied health programs including nursing, pharmacy, and medical technology.
  • Notre Dame of Kidapawan College: Offers programs in education, criminology, and theology.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of Kidapawan City

• Kidapawan’s name is believed to have originated from the Manobo phrase “Tidapawan,” meaning “spring in the highlands,” referencing the natural springs found in the area. It was originally a settlement of the Manobo and Bagobo tribes, who lived in harmony with the forest and mountain ecosystems.
• The area was formally organized as a municipality on August 18, 1947 through Executive Order No. 82 signed by President Manuel Roxas. It became the capital of the newly formed Cotabato Province after the division of the old Cotabato in 1973.
• Kidapawan was converted into a component city on February 12, 1998 through Republic Act No. 8500. Its cityhood marked a new phase of development, with investments in infrastructure, education, and public services.
• Today, Kidapawan is known as the “City of Fruits and Highland Springs,” balancing agricultural vitality, cultural diversity, and eco-tourism. It continues to grow through regional cooperation, education, and sustainable development.

Elected Officials of Kidapawan City

• As of the 2025 elections, Kidapawan City is led by:
  • Mayor: Jose Paolo M. Evangelista
  • Vice Mayor: Melvin E. Lamata Jr.
  • Representative – 2nd District of Cotabato: Rudy S. Caoagdan
  • City Councilors: Rosheil Gantuangco Zoreta, Airene Clare Pagal, Dina Y. Espina-Chua, Datu Jason Roy Sibug, Mike Ablang, Judith G. Navarra, Aljo Cris G. Dizon, Galen Rey T. Lonzaga, Carlo C. Dizon
• For full election results and updates, visit: Kidapawan City Election Results.

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