KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – For the 15 content creators who joined the recent South Cotabato Experience, a three-day familiarization tour initiated by the Office of the Provincial Information Officer, the activity allowed them to rediscover their home province and for some who are from Iloilo, they immediately loved the Land of the Dreamweavers.
Hydee S. Templonuevo, Promotions and Publicity Chairperson of the 27th T’nalak Festival and 60th Foundation Anniversary, said the initiative aims to strengthen partnerships with digital storytellers in promoting South Cotabato as a premier tourism destination.
“Through this experience, we want our content creators and photographers to witness the beauty, culture, and hospitality of South Cotabato firsthand so they can share authentic stories that will inspire more people to visit the province,” Templonuevo said.
The activity features visits to Tupi and Lake Sebu, where participants are scheduled to explore tourist attractions such as Euphoria, SG Farm, the iconic Seven Falls and zipline, Gono S’bong, Punta Isla, and Lotus Garden.
The itinerary also includes cultural performances, a lake cruise, participation in the T’nalak Festival street dancing competition, and the signing of memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with the Provincial Information Office.
Meanwhile, Dennis Gamarcha of Pinoy Fiesta, who hails from Iloilo, described his cultural immersion in Lake Sebu as one of the highlights of the tour, expressing admiration for the province’s efforts to protect and promote the traditions of the T’boli people.
“Goosebumps ko sa T’boli culture, napaka-authentic. I am happy na preserve ito sa South Cotabato,” Gamarcha said.
For photographer Ian Rey Bacaoco, the cultural immersion in Lake Sebu left a lasting impression, particularly the vibrant performances of the T’boli community.
“Na feel ko ang essence of authenticity na need i-explore more. In terms of the performances, ma-feel ko ang tuod nga kasadya,” Bacaoco shared.
He added that the experience allowed him to witness the genuine identity of the T’boli people, making it easier to tell meaningful stories through photography.
The tourism immersion is expected to generate wider online exposure for South Cotabato through creative digital content, supporting the Provincial Government’s continuing efforts to boost tourism, cultural appreciation, and local economic development.
