South Cotabato Province, Philippines

People of South Cotabato

• As of the 2020 Census, South Cotabato had a population of 975,476.
• In 2015, the province recorded a population of 915,289, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 6.6% over five years.
• South Cotabato is home to several indigenous groups including the Tboli, Blaan, Manobo, and Tagakaulo. These communities have rich traditions in weaving, music, and oral storytelling, with ancestral domains in the highlands and lake regions of the province.
• The major dialect spoken is Hiligaynon, especially in Koronadal and surrounding municipalities, while Cebuano and Ilocano are also widely used. Indigenous languages such as Tboli and Blaan are still spoken in tribal barangays. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of South Cotabato

• South Cotabato is located in the southern-central part of Mindanao, within Region XII (Soccsksargen). Its geographic coordinates center around 6.17°N latitude and 125.0°E longitude.
• The province spans a land area of 3,935.95 square kilometers, bordered by Sultan Kudarat to the west, Sarangani to the south, and Davao del Sur to the east. Its terrain includes fertile plains, mountain ranges such as Mount Matutum, and lake systems like Lake Sebu. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• The capital of South Cotabato is Koronadal City. The Provincial Capitol is located in Barangay Zone III, which also houses the Sangguniang Panlalawigan and other government offices.
• Most people reach South Cotabato via land and air. Koronadal City is accessible by bus from General Santos City (approximately 1.5 hours). The nearest airport is General Santos International Airport, and the Port of General Santos serves as the nearest major seaport.

Tourist Attractions of South Cotabato

• Lake Sebu: A cultural and ecological destination home to the Tboli people, known for its waterfalls, tilapia farms, and traditional weaving.
• Seven Falls Zipline: Located in Lake Sebu, this zipline offers breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and forest canopies.
• Mount Matutum: A dormant volcano and biodiversity hotspot ideal for trekking and nature exploration.
• Strawberry Farm in Tupi: A highland farm offering pick-your-own strawberries and scenic views.
• Hinugyaw Festival: Celebrated every January in Koronadal City, this festival honors Ilonggo heritage through street dancing, cultural exhibits, and civic parades.

Economy of South Cotabato

• The province’s economy is anchored in:
  • Agriculture: Major crops include pineapple, banana, rice, corn, and coffee. South Cotabato is also a leading producer of tilapia.
  • Agro-industrial processing: Facilities process pineapple, rubber, and food products for export and regional distribution.
  • Tourism: Eco-parks, cultural sites, and mountain resorts contribute to seasonal income.
  • Retail and services: Koronadal and Polomolok serve as commercial hubs for trade and logistics.
• South Cotabato is classified as a 1st-class province. In 2024, its estimated GDP exceeded ₱60 billion, ranking it among the top-performing provinces in Mindanao.

Educational Institutions of South Cotabato

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Notre Dame of Marbel University: A Catholic institution in Koronadal offering programs in liberal arts, education, engineering, and health sciences.
  • South Cotabato State College: Offers programs in agriculture, technology, and teacher education.
  • Holy Child College of Information Technology: Specializes in IT, business, and engineering programs.
  • Notre Dame-Siena College of Polomolok: Offers programs in education, hospitality, and business administration.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in electronics, welding, culinary arts, and other trades.

History of South Cotabato

• South Cotabato was originally part of the undivided Cotabato Province. The area was sparsely inhabited by Malay pioneers and indigenous tribes, including the Tboli and Blaan, who lived in harmony with the land and practiced sustainable forest-based livelihoods.
• During the American period and post-World War II era, waves of settlers from Luzon and the Visayas migrated to the region, drawn by its fertile lands and promise of opportunity. This led to the growth of agriculture, trade, and infrastructure.
• The province was officially created on July 18, 1966 through Republic Act No. 4849, which separated several municipalities from Cotabato to form South Cotabato. Koronadal was designated as the capital.
• In 1992, South Cotabato gave rise to a new province—Sarangani—when seven municipalities were separated. Today, South Cotabato is known as the “Land of the Dreamweavers,” honoring the artistry of the Tboli people and the province’s commitment to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

Elected Officials of South Cotabato

• As of the 2025 elections, South Cotabato Province is led by:
  • Governor: Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr.
  • Vice Governor: Arthur Y. Pingoy Jr.
  • Representative – 1st District: Ismael D. Sueno
  • Representative – 2nd District: Ferdinand L. Hernandez
  • Board Members: Alicia Nicole Causing-Labordo, Ervin B. Luntao, Sarse Atam Jr., and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: South Cotabato Election Results.

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