Experience Nature's Beauty: A must Visit in Maramag, Bukidnon

Maramag is a municipality in the province of Bukidnon, located in the Northern Mindanao region of the Philippines. It is located in the central part of Bukidnon and is bounded by the municipalities of Quezon to the north, Don Carlos to the west, Kitaotao to the south, and Valencia City to the east. It has a population of around 94,000 people as of the 2020 census.

Maramag is known for its rich agricultural lands, which make it one of the top producers of rice and corn in the region. The municipality is also home to a number of natural attractions, such as the Maramag River and the Mount Kalatungan Range.

One of the most popular events in Maramag is the Kaamulan Festival, which is celebrated every year in March. The festival is a celebration of the culture and traditions of the seven ethnic tribes of Bukidnon and features various cultural performances, indigenous sports, and culinary competitions.

Other attractions in Maramag include Central Mindanao University, one of the leading universities in the region, and the Maramag Bypass Road, a scenic route that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rice fields.

Brief History

Maramag was founded in 1911 by American colonizers. During World War II, it was occupied by the Japanese army. After the war, it became a barrio of Valencia until it was finally declared an independent municipality on January 1, 1958.

The history of Maramag dates back to the pre-Spanish era when the area was inhabited by the Bukidnon people. The Bukidnon people were known for their bravery and resistance against foreign invaders, which made the Spanish colonization of the region difficult.

During the American colonial period, the area that is now Maramag was part of the municipality of Valencia. It was only in 1948 that Maramag was created as a separate municipality.

Maramag played a significant role in the Philippine resistance movement against the Japanese occupation during World War II. The town was a strategic location for the guerrilla forces due to its terrain, which provided a natural defense against enemy attacks.

In the post-war era, Maramag became known for its agriculture, particularly the cultivation of rice and corn. Central Mindanao University, which was established in 1910, also played a significant role in the development of the town, providing education and training to the local population.

Today, Maramag is a thriving municipality with a growing tourism industry. Its natural attractions, such as the Maramag River and the Mount Kalatungan Range, continue to draw visitors from all over the country and the world. The town's rich cultural heritage is also celebrated during the Kaamulan Festival, which is a major event in the region.

Population, Poverty, and Economy

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the population of Maramag as of May 1, 2020, was 100,268. The town has a total of 19,788 households, with an average household size of 5.07 persons.

As of 2018, the poverty incidence in Maramag was 37.7%, which is higher than the provincial poverty incidence of Bukidnon. The local government of Maramag 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.

Maramag is primarily an agricultural town, with rice, corn, and sugarcane as its major crops. The town is also known for its production of bananas, pineapples, and other fruits. In recent years, there has been growth in the poultry and livestock industries in Maramag. The town also has a few small-scale businesses and enterprises.

Things to do in Maramag

Maramag is a destination for tourists who are interested in exploring the natural beauty of Bukidnon and learning about its cultural heritage. Here are some of the top things to do and places to visit in Maramag:

• Mount Kalatungan Range - This is a popular destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. The mountain range offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape and is home to various species of plants and animals.

• Maramag River - The river is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and rafting. It is also known for its scenic beauty and offers a peaceful environment for relaxation.

• Kaamulan Festival - This is a week-long festival held every year in March to celebrate the culture and traditions of the seven ethnic tribes of Bukidnon. The festival features various cultural performances, indigenous sports, and culinary competitions.

• Central Mindanao University - This is one of the leading universities in the region and is known for its research programs in agriculture and forestry. Visitors can take a campus tour and learn about the university's history and mission.

• Maramag Bypass Road - This scenic route offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rice fields. It is a popular destination for motorcycle riders and road trip enthusiasts.

• Malatapay Spring - This is a natural spring located in Barangay Malatapay. Visitors can swim and relax in the cool, crystal-clear waters of the spring.

• Rice and Corn Fields - Maramag is known for its rich agricultural lands, which produce some of the best rice and corn in the country. Visitors can take a tour of the fields and learn about the farming practices of the local farmers.

• Valencia City - This nearby city offers additional tourist attractions, such as Kaamulan Park, Valencia City Church, and Lake Apo National Park.

Overall, Maramag offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty that is sure to appeal to travelers of all interests.