Kabacan

Welcome to Kabacan, a bustling and progressive town in the heart of North Cotabato, famously known as the “Corn Capital of Mindanao”. Sitting along the Pulangi River and surrounded by fertile fields and friendly faces, Kabacan combines urban vibes with a rich agricultural heritage.

Whether you’re stopping by for food, culture, or a unique Mindanaoan experience, Kabacan has plenty of surprises for curious travelers and culture seekers.

Kabacan may be known for its farms and universities, but it also offers scenic spots and cultural sites that are worth the visit:

• University of Southern Mindanao (USM)
  One of Mindanao’s biggest state universities with a lush, park-like campus. Great for walking tours, photography, and learning about agricultural innovations.
• Pulangi Riverbanks
  Ideal for sunset watching, picnics, or casual boat rides. A peaceful escape just minutes from the town center.
• Kabacan Rotonda
  The town’s iconic landmark where locals gather and take photos. It’s lit beautifully at night and surrounded by food stalls.
• Agri-farms and Demo Farms
  Kabacan is home to demo farms showcasing modern farming practices. You can visit local corn, banana, and rice farms for agri-tourism tours.
• Mt. Apo Viewing Areas
  Enjoy clear views of Mt. Apo from barangays on the outskirts, especially at sunrise.

Kabacan is a cultural melting pot, with residents from various ethnic and religious backgrounds including:

• Christian settlers from Luzon and the Visayas
• Muslim Maguindanaons
• Indigenous Manobo groups

This multicultural environment fosters a strong sense of unity in diversity, where community events often blend tribal, Muslim, and Christian traditions.

Languages spoken: Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Ilocano, Maguindanaon, and Filipino. English is widely used, especially in schools and universities.

The biggest celebration in town is the Kabacan Founding Anniversary, usually held in August, which brings the town to life with:

• Street dancing competitions featuring ethnic costumes
• Agri-trade fairs showcasing local produce
• Float parades by schools and barangays
• Cultural presentations from different tribes and sectors
• Live music concerts and food bazaars

It’s a fun and meaningful way to celebrate Kabacan’s history, harmony, and progress.

Kabacan is all about comfort food with local flavor, perfect after a long walk or farm tour. Here’s what to try:

• Corn-based dishes like roasted corn, corn soup, and binaki (sweet steamed corn cake)
• Pastil
  Steamed rice with spicy shredded chicken or beef wrapped in banana leaves
• Kagikit
  A local Muslim delicacy made of sautéed shredded fish with spices and grated coconut
• Lechon manok
  Juicy roasted chicken with native seasonings, a weekend favorite
• Local kakanin
  Such as puto, suman, and biko from street vendors or local bakeries

Pro tip: Visit the town plaza at night for street food galore and lively crowd vibes.

Kabacan blends traditional sounds with youthful energy. On any given week, you’ll hear:

• Kulintang and agung beats during tribal or cultural events
• Mindanao pop and acoustic OPM at local bars or school programs
• Battle of the Bands events during festivals
• Religious and spiritual chants during community prayers and interfaith events

There’s always a melody that reflects the town’s dynamic and welcoming spirit.

• The Corn Capital of Mindanao and a key agri-industrial center
• Home to the University of Southern Mindanao (USM)
• A model town for peaceful multicultural coexistence
• Access to Pulangi River and Mt. Apo viewing
• A great place for agri-tourism and local food trips

Kabacan is not just a stopover, it’s a place to connect, learn, and enjoy Mindanao’s agricultural heartbeat.

• Best time to visit: August during the Founding Anniversary or harvest season (June to October)
• How to get there: From Davao City, Cotabato City, or General Santos, take a bus or van heading to Kabacan terminal
• What to bring: Casual wear, sun protection, cash for food trips, and an appetite for local flavor