SOUTH COTABATO – South Cotabato recorded more than one million tourist arrivals during the first half of 2026, reflecting the province’s continuing appeal as a destination for nature lovers, leisure travelers, and participants in meetings and other events.
Based on data from the Provincial Tourism Office, South Cotabato registered a total of 1,098,706 tourist arrivals from January to June this year.
The figure included 981,683 same-day visitors and 117,023 overnight tourists.
The data showed that tourism activity remained strong during the first six months of the year, with visitors coming to explore the province’s natural attractions, experience its culture, attend various events, and participate in business and official gatherings.
The highest tourist influx was recorded in April, coinciding with the observance of Easter and the summer vacation season.
However, the report from the Provincial Tourism Office-Arts Culture and Tourism Museum also noted a decline in tourist arrivals in May and June.
According to Richie Matunding, Administrative Aide IV and one of the program holders under the Research, Planning, Product and Manpower Development, said the decrease was largely attributed to the impact of the magnitude 7.8 earthquake and landslides in Southern Mindanao, which disrupted the travel plans and movements of tourists.
“The situation affected transportation and accessibility in some areas, prompting travelers to postpone or cancel planned trips,” Matunding shared.
On the other hand, a total of 5,510 foreign travelers visited South Cotabato during daytime while 90 foreigners preferred to immerse in the local culture of the province by staying overnight.
“Lake Sebu is still the top-notch tourist destination in South Cotabato. Towns like Tupi, Banga, Suralah and Tampakan are the most visited towns for day tour,” Matunding explained.
The report showed that the City of Koronadal, Suralah, Lake Sebu and Tupi are the most preferred towns for an overnight stay because of the presence of numerous accommodations.
Aside from Lake Sebu, the municipality of Tupi also continued to snatch rank 2 among the top tourist destinations in the province.
Known for its agricultural landscape, cool weather, and scenic views, Tupi offers visitors opportunities to experience both nature and the province’s rich agricultural identity.
However, Ben, a tourist from Bohol, said he would recommend Lake Sebu to fellow travelers, especially those who enjoy nature and peaceful surroundings.
“I’m from Bohol pero di nakakasawa balik-balikan ang Lake Sebu. Nature lover here,” he said.
Meanwhile, tourism related to meetings, incentives, conventions, and other events remained strong in the province, particularly in Koronadal City, which continues to serve as a major hub for government activities, business gatherings, conferences, and various provincial and regional events.
Despite challenges brought about by natural disasters that affected travel during the latter part of the first semester, tourism officials remain optimistic that the continued promotion of South Cotabato’s destinations, combined with the recovery of travel activities, will help sustain the province’s tourism momentum throughout the year.
