Exploring the Rich Culture and History of Kidapawan City: Fun things to DO

Kidapawan City is a city located in the province of Cotabato on the island of Mindanao in the southern Philippines. It is the capital city of the province of Cotabato and is part of the Soccsksargen region. Kidapawan City is located at the foot of Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines.

Kidapawan City covers a total land area of 336.40 square kilometers and is composed of 40 barangays or villages. As of the 2020 census, the city has a population of around 151,000 people.

The economy of Kidapawan City is largely agricultural, with rice, corn, coconut, and various fruits being the main crops grown in the area. The city is also home to several industries such as furniture-making, handicrafts, and food processing. In recent years, Kidapawan City has been promoting its tourism industry, particularly its natural attractions such as hot springs, waterfalls, and natural parks.

The city is also known for its annual Timpupo Festival, which celebrates the bountiful harvests of the city's farmers and showcases the unique culture and traditions of the area.

Brief History

Kidapawan City has a long and rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times. The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes such as the Manobos, Bagobos, and Maguindanaos.

During the Spanish colonial period, the area that is now Kidapawan was part of the vast Cotabato Province, which covered most of what is now the regions of Soccsksargen and Davao. The Spanish authorities established several settlements in the area, but they faced significant resistance from the indigenous tribes who refused to be subjugated.

In the early 20th century, American colonial authorities established a civil government in Cotabato Province and made Kidapawan the capital town. During this period, Kidapawan served as a center for commerce, education, and government administration in the province.

After the Philippines gained independence in 1946, Kidapawan continued to grow and develop, particularly in the areas of agriculture and trade. In 1959, the municipality of Kidapawan was officially established under Republic Act No. 2370, with the town of Poblacion as its seat of government.

On February 12, 1998, Kidapawan was declared a component city under Republic Act No. 8500, making it the capital city of the newly created province of Cotabato. Since then, Kidapawan has undergone significant development, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, tourism, and social services. The city continues to thrive and is now a hub for business, education, and culture in the Soccsksargen region.

Climate

Kidapawan City has a tropical climate with no distinct dry or wet seasons, similar to most parts of the Philippines. The city experiences warm temperatures throughout the year, with an average temperature of around 27°C.

The climate in Kidapawan City can be classified as type II according to the Koppen climate classification system, which means that the city experiences a pronounced maximum rainfall from November to January and a relatively dry season from February to April. The wettest months are from June to September.

During the rainy season, the city experiences occasional heavy rainfall, which can sometimes lead to flooding and landslides in low-lying areas. On the other hand, the dry season is characterized by sunny and warm weather, with occasional thunderstorms.

The best time to visit Kidapawan City is during the dry season, from February to April, when the weather is generally more pleasant and there are fewer chances of rain. However, visitors should still be prepared for occasional rain and thunderstorms, especially during the transition months of May and October.

Ultimate things to DO

Kidapawan City has a lot to offer in terms of tourism, particularly in its natural attractions and cultural heritage. Here are some of the ultimate things to do in Kidapawan City:

• Visit Mount Apo. As the highest mountain in the Philippines, Mount Apo offers a challenging and scenic trek for adventurous travelers. The climb usually takes 2-3 days and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

• Explore hot and cold springs. Kidapawan City is known for its natural hot springs, such as the Asik-Asik Falls, and the Mainit and Mawig Springs. Soak in the warm waters and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Experience the Timpupo Festival. Held annually in March, the Timpupo Festival celebrates the city's bountiful harvests and unique culture. Enjoy colorful parades, street dances, and other cultural events.

• Visit the Kidapawan City Nature Park. This park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It features a lake, gardens, and hiking trails, and is a popular spot for picnics and family outings.

• Try local delicacies. Kidapawan City is known for its delicious dishes, such as the lami (sweet potato) pie, binaki (coconut cake), and tinalum (banana cooked in coconut milk). Visit local restaurants and food stalls to try these and other delicacies.

• Shop at the Pasalubong Center. Located near the city hall, the Pasalubong Center offers a wide variety of souvenirs and local products, such as coffee, handicrafts, and woven textiles.

• Learn about local history and culture. Visit the Kidapawan City Museum to learn about the city's history, culture, and traditions. The museum features exhibits on the indigenous tribes of the area, as well as artifacts from the Spanish and American colonial periods.