Reasons Why Tacurong Sultan Kudarat Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Tacurong is a bustling metropolis withinside the Sultan Kudarat Province of the Philippines. Its rich history dates back to pre-colonial times when the area was inhabited by the indigenous Maguindanao and Tiruray tribes. 

According to the Philippine Bureau of Statistics at the 2020 census, Tacurong City has a population of 106,427, an increase from the 2015 census of 98,316. ​​Tacurong City is located in Sultan Kudarat Province in the Soccsksargen Region of the Philippines.


Brief History

The city was officially founded in 1951 and has since developed into an important economic and cultural center of the region. One of the highlights in Tacurong's history was the founding of Notre Dame of Tacurong College in 1948, which has since grown into one of the region's premier academic institutions.

During the period of martial law, Tacurong was the scene of numerous clashes between government forces and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), a Muslim separatist group fighting for autonomy in Mindanao. In 1973, the MNLF launched a major attack on the city that burned down several government buildings and killed many civilians. 

The conflict eventually ended with the signing of the Tripoli Accords in 1976, which granted autonomy to the Muslim-dominated areas of Mindanao. 

Today, Tacurong is a thriving city with a vibrant culture and a strong sense of community. The locals are proud of their heritage and are known for their hospitality and warm welcome. The city is also famous for its delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes like piyanggang (grilled chicken or beef marinated in coconut milk and spices) and kulma (spicy beef or goat curry). 

Overall, Tacurong is a city that has undergone significant changes over the years but has managed to maintain its rich history and cultural identity. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of the people who inhabit it and continues to be an important part of Sultan's socio-economic landscape of Kudarat and the greater Mindanao region.


Things to Do in Tacurong

There are many things to do in Tacurong that allow you to experience the city's rich culture and history. Here are some of the best things to do in Tacurong:

  • Visit Notre Dame of Tacurong College - This academic institution is one of the oldest and most respected in the region. Visitors can tour the campus and learn about its history and academic programs.
  • Explore the City's Museums - Tacurong is home to several museums that showcase the city's cultural heritage, including the Sultan Kudarat Culture and History Museum and the Provincial Capitol Museum.
  • Sample local cuisine - Tacurong is famous for its delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes like piyanggang, kulma, and Inaul-inspired dishes. Be sure to try these dishes at local restaurants or street vendors.
  • Attend a Festival or Celebration – Tacurong hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Talakudong Festival, held each September to celebrate the city's cultural heritage.
  • Visit Nearby Natural Attractions - Tacurong is close to several natural attractions including Lake Buluan and Kiplot Falls. Visitors can take a day trip to these places for hiking, swimming, and other outdoor activities.
  • Shop at Local Markets - Tacurong has several markets where visitors can buy local handicrafts, textiles, and other souvenirs.
  • Participate in cultural activities - Visitors can take part in activities such as weaving, bamboo making, and traditional dance performances to learn more about the local culture.

Festivals and Celebrations

The city of Tacurong celebrates various festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the festivals you might want to visit:

  • Talakudong Festival - is the most popular and colorful festival in Tacurong, held on September 18-19 every year. It is a celebration of the city's cultural heritage with street dances, cultural performances and a parade of colorful and ornate headwear known as 'talakudong'. 
  • Kalimudan Festival - The Kalimudan Festival is celebrated in November every year and showcases the different tribes and cultures of Sultan Kudarat. It includes cultural performances, a grand parade, fun fairs and athletic competitions.
  • Pasalamat Festival – Held on the fourth Friday of November, the Pasalamat Festival is a harvest festival that celebrates the city's bountiful harvests. It includes street dancing, a grand parade and cultural performances.
  • Sinulog sa Tacurong - Held every third Sunday in January, the festival is the local version of Cebu's famous Sinulog festival. It includes street dancing, cultural performances and a grand parade.
  • Eid'l Fitr - A predominantly Muslim city, Tacurong also celebrates Eid'l Fitr, the end of Ramadan.It is punctuated by prayers, feasts and gatherings together.
  • These festivals showcase Tacurong's rich culture and heritage and provide a great opportunity to experience the city's vibrant community spirit.


Things to Do in Tacurong City

These are just a few of Tacurong's attractions. The city has much to offer and visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience as they discover its rich culture and history. There are several ways to get to Tacurong depending on your location and budget. Here are some of the most popular modes of transportation:

  • By Air - The nearest airport to Tacurong is Awang Airport in Cotabato City, approximately 55 kilometers away. From the airport you can take a bus or van to Tacurong.
  • By Land - Tacurong can be reached by bus or minibus from major cities such as Davao, General Santos and Cotabato. From these cities, Tacurong can be reached by bus or minibus, which usually takes around 2-4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
  • By Car - If you have your own vehicle, you can access Tacurong via the National Highways that connect major cities in Mindanao.By Motorbike - If you are driving around the area you can also rent a motorbike or habal-habal to get to Tacurong.
  • Once you arrive in Tacurong, you can use a variety of modes of transportation to get around the city, including tricycles, jeepneys, and buses.

Ways to get to Tacurong from General Santos (GenSan):

  • By Bus: You can take the bus from GenSan Yellow Line Bus Terminal to Tacurong Town. Travel time is approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic and bus type. Prices range from PHP 120-200 per person.
  • By Van - You can also take a van from KCC Mall to GenSan in Tacurong City. The journey time is approximately 2 hours and the price varies from PHP 150 to 200 per person.
  • By Private Vehicle - If you have your own vehicle, the city of Tacurong can be accessed via the National Highways that connect GenSan to Tacurong. The journey time is about 2 hours depending on traffic.
  • Habal-Habal or Motorbike - If you prefer a more adventurous way to reach the city of Tacurong, you can rent a habal-habal or motorbike. It is a common mode of transport in the region, especially for short distances.

Whichever mode of transport you choose, it is advisable to plan ahead and ensure times and prices are confirmed before travelling


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