Tacurong, Philippines
Region: Sultan Kudarat
Geographic Coordinates: 6.680000, 124.670000
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with two distinct seasons: dry and wet.
Population: 109319
Language: Filipino
Tacurong is a small yet lively city situated in the province of Sultan Kudarat, Philippines. It is located in the heart of Mindanao, Making it an ideal stopover for travelers who want to explore the southern part of the country. The city has a rich cultural heritage and colorful history that can be seen through its various landmarks and attractions. One of Tacurong’s most famous landmarks is Tamontaka Church, Also known as Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Parish Church.
This centuries-old church was built during the Spanish colonial period and showcases intricate architecture that reflects both European and indigenous influences. Another noteworthy attraction is Baras Bird Sanctuary, Which serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds such as herons, Egrets, And storks. Tacurong also boasts several natural wonders that are worth exploring. One such attraction is Baras Caves – a series of underground caverns featuring stunning rock formations and crystal-clear pools. Visitors can explore these caves with guides who provide insights into their geological history.
The city’s food scene is another highlight worth mentioning – Tacurong offers an array of delicious local delicacies that are sure to satisfy any palate. Some must-try dishes include Tiyula Itum (black soup made from beef or goat meat), Inaul (handwoven fabric), Satti (grilled meat skewers served with peanut sauce), And Piyaparan (a sweet dessert made from glutinous rice). For those interested in shopping or experiencing local culture firsthand, Tacurong has several markets where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
The City Commercial Center Mall offers modern shopping amenities while still incorporating traditional Filipino elements into its design. one cannot talk about Tacurong without mentioning its warm hospitality – visitors are often welcomed with open arms by locals who take pride in sharing their culture with others. Whether you’re looking for adventure, Relaxation or simply a taste of Filipino culture, Tacurong is a destination that should not be missed.
- Sultan Kudarat Monument represents the courage and valor of Sultan Kudarat, a Muslim leader who fought against Spanish colonizers.
- Tacurong City Hall serves as the government’s headquarters in Tacurong and boasts an impressive structure.
- Baras Bird Sanctuary provides a habitat for different bird species, including migratory birds from various parts of Asia.
- Talakudong Festival showcases the rich culture and traditions of Tacurong through street dancing, colorful costumes, and traditional music.
- Buluan Lake offers breathtaking views just outside Tacurong City while providing opportunities for fishing and boating enthusiasts.
- Tantangan Church is a historic church built in 1887 with stunning features such as intricate stained glass windows and a beautiful bell tower.
- Lutayan Waterfalls located in nearby Lutayan town provides visitors with refreshing escapades from the city’s heat while enjoying waterfalls’ beauty.
- Isulan Town Plaza features an impressive monument dedicated to Sultan Kudarat, lush greenery, benches that offer relaxation or picnicking spots with friends or family members.
Major Industries and Businesses in Tacurong, Philippines
- Agriculture
- Rice production
- Corn production
- Coconut production
- Fruit production
- Poultry and Livestock Farming
- Retail Trade
- Small-scale businesses
- Transportation Services
- Tricycles
- Jeepneys
- Buses
- Banking and Finance Services
- BDO Unibank
- Land Bank of the Philippines
- Healthcare Services
- Tacurong City Hospital
- Private clinics
- Education Services
- Public schools
- Universities
- Sultan Kudarat State University – Tacurong Campus
- Government Offices
- Manufacturing Industries
- Furniture making
- Tacurong was established as a municipality in 1951, after being separated from the municipalities of Buluan and Lambayong.
- During World War II, Japanese forces occupied Tacurong.
- The name Tacurong is derived from two Maguindanao words: taco meaning bamboo and rong meaning plain. The town’s original name was Talakudong, which referred to the traditional headgear worn by Maguindanao warriors.
- Several notable individuals hail from Tacurong including former senator and governor Juan Miguel Zubiri who founded the Hineleban Foundation; musician Joey Ayala; and poet Merlie M. Alunan.
- In 1976, Mindanao experienced a major earthquake that caused significant damage to buildings in Tacurong.
- Recently, Tacurong has gained recognition for its annual T’nalak Festival which celebrates South Cotabato province’s indigenous T’boli culture.
- The town is also home to several historical landmarks such as the San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish Church built in 1955 and the old municipal building constructed during the American colonial period between 1913-1914.
- Sultan Kudarat Monument is a tribute to the brave and heroic Sultan Kudarat, who fought against Spanish colonizers in Mindanao.
- Tacurong City Hall is a beautiful building that showcases the city’s rich history and culture.
- Tacurong Cultural Center features exhibitions of traditional costumes, dances, and music from various regions in Mindanao.
- Tacurong City Museum displays artifacts, photos, and other memorabilia representing the city’s history and heritage.
- Notre Dame of Tacurong College Museum showcases religious artifacts and relics from different parts of the world.
- Our Lady of Candelaria Parish Church is a beautiful church with intricate designs on its walls and ceilings reflecting Spanish colonial architecture.
- Magsaysay Park is a public park located in the heart of Tacurong where you can relax or do some outdoor activities like jogging or playing basketball.
- Baras Bird Sanctuary is a nature sanctuary where you can see different species of birds in their natural habitat.
- Balut Island is an island paradise located near Tacurong where you can enjoy pristine beaches, crystal clear waters for swimming, snorkeling or diving.
- Lake Buluan is a scenic lake surrounded by lush greenery perfect for picnics or boating activities.
- Talakudong Festival is the biggest and most popular festival in Tacurong, celebrated on September 18th each year. It showcases the city’s rich history and culture through various activities such as street dancing, parades, cultural shows, and more.
- Kalimudan Festival is held annually in November and highlights the indigenous cultures of Tacurong through traditional dances, music performances, arts and crafts exhibits, as well as food fairs.
- Feast of San Roque takes place every August 16th to honor San Roque de Montpellier (the patron saint of Tacurong). This religious event features processions, novenas, masses, and other religious activities.
- Araw ng Tacurong commemorates the city’s foundation day every August 3rd with a variety of events including parades showcasing local talents like street dancing competitions.
- Kawayan Festival is celebrated every March to promote eco-tourism by showcasing bamboo-made products such as furniture or handicrafts that are made from abundant bamboo plants in the area.
- Pasalamat Festival is an annual thanksgiving celebration held during harvest time in May where locals offer their gratitude for a bountiful harvest with a parade featuring colorful floats adorned with fresh produce from farms around the area followed by cultural presentations showcasing traditional dances or songs performed by different tribes living within Tacurong City limits.
- Saging Repablik – a restaurant that uses banana, a popular ingredient in Tacurong, to create dishes.
- Balbacua ni Tia Dely – known for their balbacua, which is a slow-cooked beef dish.
- Bistro Rosario – serves Filipino and international cuisine.
- Grilled Hut – famous for their grilled and barbecued dishes.
- Marbel’s Restaurant – offers traditional Filipino dishes like sinigang and adobo.
- Tita Fannie’s Kitchenette – specializes in seafood dishes such as kinilaw and grilled tuna belly.
- Kusina sa Plaza – located at the town plaza, this restaurant serves Filipino comfort food like kare-kare and crispy pata.
- Jollibee Tacurong City Proper- the popular fast-food chain offering burgers, fries & fried chicken as well as local favorites such as spaghetti with hot dogs or sweet sauce & peach mango pie
- Lutong Bahay ni Aling Cora- serving home-style cooking that includes pork barbecue skewers, pancit canton noodles & crispy fried chicken
- Tacurong Chicken Haus- famous for its roasted chicken with garlic sauce served with rice or pancit bihon (rice noodles)
- Sultan Kudarat Provincial Park is a spacious park that offers visitors a playground, picnic areas, and jogging paths.
- Tacurong City Plaza is a popular spot for locals to relax and socialize. The plaza features gardens, fountains, and benches.
- Ninoy Aquino Freedom Park is a historical park dedicated to the memory of former Philippine Senator Benigno Ninoy Aquino Jr.
- Baras Bird Sanctuary is an eco-tourism destination where visitors can observe various bird species in their natural habitat.
- Lake Buluan is a scenic lake located just outside Tacurong City that offers boating and fishing activities.
- South Seas Mall Bowling Center is an indoor bowling alley that provides entertainment for families and groups of friends.
- Tacurong Gymnasium and Cultural Center is a multi-purpose facility that hosts various events such as concerts, sports tournaments, and cultural shows.
- Balikatan sa Kaunlaran Sports Complex is a sports complex equipped with basketball courts, tennis courts, swimming pools, and other facilities for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
