A Guide to the Top Tourist Spots in Sto Nino, South Cotabato
Sto. Niño is a municipality located in the southern part of South Cotabato province, Mindanao, and it was formerly a part of the municipality of Tampakan until it was established as a separate municipality in 1980.
Sto. Niño is known for its scenic natural attractions, including Lake Holon, a pristine crater lake located at the peak of Mt. Melibato, and the Seven Falls of Lake Sebu, a series of seven cascading waterfalls located in the nearby town of Lake Sebu. The town is also known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its traditional crafts, music, and dance.
The economy of Sto. Niño is primarily based on agriculture, with the production of rice, corn, and various fruits and vegetables being the major sources of income for the people of the town. In recent years, the town has also seen the development of small-scale industries, such as handicrafts and food processing.
Santo Niño is a small municipality in the province of South Cotabato, Philippines. It is located approximately 20 kilometers northeast of the provincial capital, Koronadal City.
As of the 2020 census, Santo Niño has a population of around 12,000 people in more than 2,000 households. The town has an agricultural-based economy, with the main crops being rice, corn, and vegetables. There are also small-scale livestock and poultry farms.
In terms of tourist spots, Santo Niño is known for its natural attractions such as the Baras Bird Sanctuary, a haven for migratory birds, and the Matutum Protected Landscape, a nature reserve that features a diverse range of flora and fauna. The municipality is also home to several waterfalls, such as the Ninoy Aquino and Natubleng Falls, which are popular destinations for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Here are some top things to do in Sto. Niño, South Cotabato:
Visit Lake Holon - This pristine crater lake is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can go trekking to the lake's peak, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape or go kayaking or swimming in the cool, clear waters of the lake.
Explore the Seven Falls of Lake Sebu - The Seven Falls are a series of seven cascading waterfalls located in the nearby town of Lake Sebu. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the falls up close, go zip-lining over them, or simply enjoy a picnic by the scenic waterfalls.
Learn about the T'boli culture - The T'boli people are an indigenous group that has inhabited the region for centuries. Visitors can learn about their unique culture by visiting local villages and experiencing their traditional music, dance, and crafts.
Visit the Sto. Niño Parish Church - The town's main church is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture and features intricate carvings and decorations. It is a popular destination for religious pilgrims and tourists alike.
Shop for local handicrafts - Sto. Niño is known for its traditional crafts, such as T'boli brassware, woven fabrics, and beadwork. Visitors can shop for these unique and beautiful handicrafts at local markets and shops.
Try local cuisine - South Cotabato is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, with dishes featuring fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Visitors can try local specialties such as tilapia cooked in bamboo, grilled pork skewers, and fresh tropical fruit juices.
There are several schools in Santo Niño, including public elementary and high schools, as well as private schools. The nearest airport is the General Santos International Airport, which is located about 50 kilometers southwest of Santo Niño.
