Sarangani - Archeologist's Paradise

Unknown to many, the province is a site of archeological importance. In 1991, archeologist found human remains and crude tools used by the first settlers in the archipelago. Items found inside the caves of Sarangani date back as far as 3,000 years ago, allowing the National Historical Institute to declare it as a National Historical Site.

The rich culture and history of Sarangani is not only present in the jars and bones found inside its caves; it is still very much alive today. It is present in the activities of the Tagakaolo and B'laan who continue to practice their culture and tradition. This is not the only treasure of Sarangani. More can be discovered and are in store for adventurous tourists.

Demographics

1. Population - 475,514 (as of 2007 Census)
2. Land Area - 3,601.3 sq. km
3. Capital - Alabel
4. Language/Dialect - Cebuano, English, and Filipino
5. Divisions

Cities (0)

Municipalities (7)

• Alabel
• Glan
• Kiamba
• Maasim
• Maitum
• Malapatan
• Malungon

Pinol Cave
Several archeological treasures were found inside the cave in 1991.

Tarsiers
These creatures are considered sacred by the indigenous people of Sarangani. Their behavior indicate when should they plant and the possible outcome of their harvest. If they are harmed, it is a bad omen.

Dried Flowers
The Tagakaolo and B'laan women of Malungon make fossilized leaves and flowers and sell them as souvenirs.

Cultural

Kalon-barak Skyline
Location: Malungon, Sarangani
It is a viewing point of Mt. Apo and Mt. Matutum, Sarangani Bay and Davao Gulf in one, providing 360 degrees of panorama. It is known for its cold climate and as the habitat of Sarangani tarsiers. It holds three villages of the B'laan tribe and had been this tribe's last stronghold during the Japanese occupation.

Century-Old Houses
Location: Glan, Sarangani
In the town area are rows of ancestral houses built mostly in the early part of 1900s, with high balconies, canopies and walls of 'kalados' and concrete step boards leading to wide wooden staircases. Some of them bear stunning collections of precious antiques and oriental sets right in the living room.

Historical

Pinol Cave
Location: Brgy. Pinol, Maitum, Sarangani
Formerly known as Ayub Cave, where a unique assemblage of archaeological find (human faces and figures in earthenware medium) that depicts Sarangani's cultural wealth was excavated in this cave in 1991.

Sagel Cave
Location: Maitum, Sarangani
Archeological treasure similar to those found in Pinol Cave were dug here in 2008. Found there were human remains and ancient tools and items.

Man-made

Capitol Park
Location: Provincial Capitol Grounds, Alabel, Sarangani
Dubbed as the “White House” of Southern Luzon, it stands at the center of a 26-hectare lot dotted with other buildings that house practically all offices of line agencies of the government. It has a huge sports complex, an Olympic-size swimming pool, gymnasium, and tourism village, among others.

Isla Parilla Resort
Location: Alabel, Sarangani
A man-made island just a kilometer away from the Capitol Park. Satisfy your palate with a mouth-watering cuisine of sergeant fish, Diana or pompano just taken from the fish pen. Have fun listening to the jazz band at the poolside or row a boat playing through the stilts of Maranao cottages.

Sarangani Golf Course and Country Club
Location: Sitio Pulatana, Brgy. Malandag, Malungon, Sarangani
The 18-hole Golf Course and Country Club lies in a well-landscaped of verdant grasses and trees. Its two-story native-inspired refreshment cottage can provide an outright vista of the golf course’s backdrop, Mt. Matutum.