Exploring the Hidden Gems of Libona, Bukidnon: A Guide for Adventurers

Libona is a municipality in the province of Bukidnon, located in the Northern Mindanao region of the Philippines. The town is situated in the northern part of Bukidnon, and it is bounded by the municipalities of Baungon to the north, Cagayan de Oro to the west, Malaybalay City to the south, and Sumilao to the east.

Libona is known for its agricultural activities, particularly its production of corn, rice, and sugarcane. The town also has several fruit orchards that produce various fruits such as durian, lanzones, and rambutan.

One of the main attractions in Libona is the Dahilayan Adventure Park, which offers various outdoor activities such as zip-lining, ATV rides, and horseback riding. The park is also home to the Dahilayan Forest Park, which features a botanical garden, a butterfly sanctuary, and a bird sanctuary.

Libona also has several natural attractions, including the Pulangi River, which is the longest river in Bukidnon and a popular spot for river tubing and rafting. The town is also near the Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse flora and fauna, including several endemic species.

The town celebrates its annual fiesta in honor of the Sto. Niño, held every third Sunday of January. The Fiesta is a colorful event that features street dancing, cultural presentations, and a grand procession.

Libona is accessible by land transport, with buses and jeepneys plying the route from Cagayan de Oro and other nearby towns. The town has several accommodations, ranging from budget to mid-range hotels and lodges, making it an ideal destination for tourists who want to experience the natural beauty and outdoor adventures of Bukidnon.

Population, Poverty, and Economy

As of May 1, 2020, the population of Libona, Bukidnon was 32,360, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. The town has a total of 6,405 households, with an average household size of 5.05 persons.

In terms of poverty incidence, the PSA reported that as of 2018, 34.6% of the population in Libona was considered poor. This means that more than a third of the population was living below the poverty threshold. The local government of Libona has been implementing various poverty reduction programs and initiatives to help improve the living conditions of the residents. These programs include livelihood projects, social services, and infrastructure development, among others. The government also partners with various private organizations and non-governmental organizations to help address poverty in the town.

THINGS TO DO

Libona is a municipality in Bukidnon that offers a range of tourism activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the things to do in Libona:

• Dahilayan Adventure Park:

One of the main attractions in Libona is the Dahilayan Adventure Park, which is located in Barangay Dahilayan. The park offers various outdoor activities such as zip-lining, ATV rides, and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy the park's Forest Park, which features a botanical garden, a butterfly sanctuary, and a bird sanctuary.

• Pulangi River: 

The Pulangi River is the longest river in Bukidnon and a popular spot for river tubing and rafting. Visitors can take a relaxing boat ride along the river or enjoy a more adventurous experience by taking a thrilling ride on a river tube or raft.

• Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park:

Libona is located near the Mount Kitanglad Range Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse flora and fauna, including several endemic species. Visitors can take a guided hike through the park's trails to experience the beauty of the mountain range.

• Fruit Picking: 

Libona is home to several fruit orchards that produce various fruits such as durian, lanzones, and rambutan. Visitors can enjoy a fun-filled day of fruit picking, which is a great activity for families with children.

• Cultural Immersion: 

The town is also home to the Talaandig tribe, an indigenous group that has preserved its cultural heritage despite modernization. Visitors can learn about their culture by visiting the Talaandig Heritage Village, where they can see traditional architecture, music, dance, and handicrafts.

• Festivals: Libona celebrates its annual fiesta in honor of the Sto. Niño, held every third Sunday of January. The Fiesta is a colorful event that features street dancing, cultural presentations, and a grand procession.

• Local Food: Visitors can indulge in local food specialties such as sugarcane juice, grilled corn, and other farm-to-table dishes. There are several local eateries and food stalls that offer these delicious treats.

• Monastery of the Transfiguration  The Monastery of the Transfiguration is a famous landmark in Libona. It is a modern architectural marvel built in the 1960s by the Benedictine Monks.

• Kampo Juan Eco Adventure ParkKampo Juan Eco Adventure Park offers various outdoor activities, such as wall climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining.

• Alalum Falls - Alalum Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Barangay Dahilayan. It is a popular spot for swimming and picnics.

Libona is a great destination for visitors who want to experience the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and agricultural activities of Bukidnon.