Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems in Quezon, Bukidnon
Quezon is a municipality located in the province of Bukidnon, in the Northern Mindanao region of the Philippines. It is located in the southeastern part of Bukidnon, and it has a population of around 25,000 people as of the 2020 census.
The town is primarily an agricultural area, with rice, corn, and sugarcane being the main crops. Quezon is also home to several cultural and natural attractions that are worth visiting.
One of the most popular destinations in Quezon is Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is known for its biodiversity and offers visitors a chance to hike, bird-watch, and explore the natural beauty of the area.
Another attraction in Quezon is the Binahon Agroforestry Farm, which is a sustainable farm that offers tours and workshops on organic farming practices. Visitors can learn about traditional farming techniques and taste fresh organic produce.
Quezon is also home to the Quezon Bukidnon Tribal Village, which offers visitors a chance to experience the culture and traditions of the indigenous tribes in the area. Visitors can see traditional houses, try local food, and watch cultural performances.
Overall, Quezon is a peaceful and scenic town that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bukidnon.
Brief History
Quezon was originally a part of the municipality of Maramag, but it became an independent municipality on December 6, 1969. The town was named in honor of the former President of the Philippines, Manuel L. Quezon.
The history of Quezon dates back to the pre-colonial era when the area was inhabited by the Manobo and Higaonon tribes. The Manobos were known for their warrior culture and resistance against foreign invaders, while the Higaonons were skilled farmers and traders.
During the Spanish colonial period, Quezon was under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Malaybalay. The Spanish authorities established several settlements in the area to control the indigenous tribes and to promote the cultivation of crops such as rice and corn.
In the American colonial period, Quezon became a town and was named after Manuel L. Quezon, the President of the Philippine Commonwealth at the time. During World War II, Quezon played a significant role in the Philippine resistance movement against the Japanese occupation. The town was a strategic location for the guerrilla forces, who used the rugged terrain to their advantage.
In the post-war era, Quezon became known for its agriculture, particularly the cultivation of rice, corn, and sugarcane. The town also became a hub for transportation and trade due to its location along the Sayre Highway.
Today, Quezon is a peaceful and scenic town that offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Bukidnon. The town's rich history and cultural traditions are celebrated during the Kaamulan Festival, which is a major event in the region.
Economy:
Quezon's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice, corn, and sugarcane as its major crops. The town is also known for its production of fruits, such as durian, mangosteen, and rambutan. In recent years, there has been growth in the poultry and livestock industries in Quezon. The town also has a few small-scale businesses and enterprises.
Tourism
Quezon is a peaceful town that is surrounded by natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Quezon:
- Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park - This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a protected area that covers over 47,000 hectares of forest and mountains. It is home to various endemic species of plants and animals and offers visitors a chance to hike, bird-watch, and explore the natural beauty of the area.
- Quezon Bukidnon Tribal Village - This cultural attraction offers visitors a chance to experience the traditions and customs of the indigenous tribes in the area. Visitors can see traditional houses, try local food, and watch cultural performances.
- Binahon Agroforestry Farm - This sustainable farm offers tours and workshops on organic farming practices. Visitors can learn about traditional farming techniques and taste fresh organic produce.
- Agusan Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary - This natural attraction is located near Quezon and is home to various species of birds and wildlife. Visitors can take a boat tour of the marshes and enjoy the beautiful scenery
- Kaamulan Festival - This annual festival is celebrated in Malaybalay City, which is located near Quezon. It 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.
- Mt. Musuan - Mt. Musuan is a popular hiking destination in Bukidnon. It is located in Barangay San Vicente, Quezon.
- Quezon Eco-Tourism Park - The Quezon Eco-Tourism Park is a nature reserve that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites. It is located in Barangay Mabuhay, Quezon.
- Napalit Lake - Napalit Lake is a scenic lake located in Barangay San Vicente, Quezon. It offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
Transportation:
The main mode of transportation in Quezon is by tricycle or motorcycle. The town is also accessible by bus, with regular trips from Cagayan de Oro City, Valencia City, and other neighboring towns in Bukidnon.
Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Quezon is Laguindingan Airport, which is located in Cagayan de Oro City. From the airport, you can take a bus or van to Quezon. The travel time is approximately 2-3 hours depending on the traffic.
