Socsargen’s should-see scenic spots

T’BOLI maiden in indigenous wear at Lake Sebu, named after the lake that supplies irrigation water to South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat

Of the 7,107 islands that comprise the Philippines, one island group that tourists would like to visit is Mindanao, but it’s been getting a bad reputation due to potential security threats. However, tourists can still enjoy the relatively unseen beauty of Mindanao’s General Santos City, Sarangani and Lake Sebu, located in the Socsargen region.

General Santos City is dubbed the Tuna Capital of the Philippines, with a daily yield of 750 metric tons!

You can go rock climbing at Malakong Gorge, or take a zipline in Kaljala Karsts Eco-Tourism Park and Nopol Hills to see the plant and wildlife. Beautiful beaches include Maharlika (the largest), Baliton and T’Boli. Go diving in Tampuan or see the attractions in Bunga Springs and Amsikong Falls.

Sarangani is famous for its beaches (Gumasa), dive spots (Kapatan-Lago) and Nalus Falls—a great site for rappelling.

Barangay Pinol has Pinol Cave and the Bat Sanctuary, as well as cultural sites like the Tampat Shrine and Glan’s century-old houses.

The municipality of Lake Sebu is named after the lake that supplies irrigation water to South Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat.

You can savor 101 tilapia dishes at Punta Isla Resort, tour Lakes Lahit and Seloton, take a boat ride to the region’s 12 islets, or go swimming at T’daan Kini Falls. Our Socsargen Photo Safari is on May 9-12.

You can also join our Amazing Batanes Photo Safari on April 18-21 or May 2-5 and the Marinduque Moriones Festival Photo Safari on April 10-14. E-mail [email protected], or call 0915 543-0482.