How to Spend a Perfect Day in Libungan, North Cotabato

Libungan is a municipality located in the province of Cotabato, in the southern part of the Philippines. Libungan is situated in the northwestern part of Cotabato province. It is bordered by the municipalities of Alamada to the north, Midsayap to the east, Pigcawayan to the south, and Carmen to the west. According to the 2020 census, Libungan has a population of around 57,000 people.

Brief History

Libungan has a rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial period. The town was originally inhabited by the Manobo people, who were skilled hunters and farmers. The Manobos were known for their fierce resistance against the Spanish colonizers, who arrived in the area in the late 1800s.

During the American colonial period, Libungan was part of the municipality of Kabacan. It was only in 1948 that Libungan was officially declared a separate municipality by virtue of Executive Order No. 109. The first mayor of Libungan was Datu Bua Tamayo.

In the early years of its existence as a municipality, Libungan was primarily an agricultural town, with most of its inhabitants engaged in farming and fishing. Rice and corn were the main crops grown in the area, while fish from the Pulangi River provided an important source of food and livelihood for the town's residents.

In the 1960s, the town began to experience economic growth with the establishment of several government agencies, including the Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Agricultural Extension. These agencies provided technical assistance and support to farmers, helping to improve agricultural productivity in the area.

Today, Libungan continues to be an important agricultural center in Cotabato province. The town has also seen improvements in infrastructure and services, including the construction of a new public market, the rehabilitation of the town plaza, and the expansion of health and education facilities. Despite these developments, Libungan remains a peaceful and laid-back town, with a strong sense of community and a rich cultural heritage.

Economy 

The town's economy is primarily based on agriculture. The main crops grown in the area include rice, corn, and fruits such as bananas, pineapples, and durian. Livestock production, particularly poultry, and swine, is also an important economic activity in the town.

Climate

Libungan has a tropical climate, characterized by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The town experiences two distinct seasons - a wet season from May to November, and a dry season from December to April.

During the wet season, Libungan receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 150 to 200 millimeters of rainfall per month. The rains are typically accompanied by thunderstorms and occasional typhoons, which can cause flooding and landslides in some areas.

In contrast, the dry season is characterized by hot and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 35 degrees Celsius. The dry season is also the time when the town celebrates its annual fiesta, which is held in honor of its patron saint, Our Lady of Lourdes.

Despite the occasional typhoons and flooding, Libungan's climate is generally favorable for agriculture, particularly for rice and corn production. The town's fertile soil, combined with its abundant water resources, makes it an ideal location for farming and fishing activities.

Tourist attractions 

While Libungan is not yet a popular tourist destination, it has several natural and cultural attractions that visitors can explore. One of the town's main tourist spots is Tinago Falls, a majestic waterfall located in Barangay Kisante. The town also has several natural springs, including the Manupali Spring and the Lomondao Spring. 

Visitors can also explore the town's cultural heritage by visiting the Santa Cruz Parish Church, which was built in the early 1900s, or by attending the town's annual fiesta celebration, which is held in honor of the town's patron saint, Our Lady of Lourdes.

Accessibility

Libungan is accessible by land transportation from nearby cities such as Cotabato City, Davao City, and General Santos City. The town is also served by the Cotabato Airport, which is located in nearby Awang, Maguindanao, and is about an hour's drive away.