Wao

Tucked away in the highlands of Lanao del Sur lies the enchanting municipality of Wao, a serene yet vibrant destination that blends the cool air of Bukidnon’s borders with the rich culture of the Maranao and Christian communities. Known for its harmonious coexistence, scenic landscapes, and bountiful agriculture, Wao is a rising star in the tourism map of Mindanao.

Wao sits on a plateau surrounded by majestic mountains and rolling green hills. The municipality is often called the “Little Baguio of the South” due to its chilly weather and foggy mornings. It’s a perfect escape for nature lovers seeking calm and fresh air, far from the chaos of urban life.

One of Wao’s most stunning sights is the Wao Municipal Viewing Deck, where you can marvel at panoramic views of the mountain ranges and cloud-covered valleys. The Sacred Heart Parish is a peaceful landmark that reflects the town’s Christian heritage. For nature enthusiasts, Mount Kalatungan Range Natural Park, bordering nearby areas, offers forest trails and wildlife adventure.

Wao is one of the most culturally diverse towns in Lanao del Sur. It’s home to Maranaos, Cebuanos, Ilonggos, and other settlers from all over the country. This diversity brings colorful traditions, languages, and values that flourish in peaceful coexistence. Community celebrations often mix Islamic and Christian influences, creating a unique cultural tapestry you won’t find anywhere else in the Philippines.

Wao offers a delightful mix of Maranao and Filipino settler cuisine. Try the flavorful Beef Rendang and Palapa, a Maranao chili-garlic condiment that spices up any meal. Locals also serve tinolang manok, piyaparan a manok (chicken in coconut), and fresh vegetables harvested from the nearby highlands. And don’t miss out on the freshly brewed native coffee and local delicacies like bibingka and cassava cake.

The Araw ng Wao Festival is a celebration of unity, thanksgiving, and culture. Held every February, the festival showcases traditional dances, agro-fair exhibitions, and beauty pageants that reflect the town’s mixed heritage. It’s a joyful event that brings everyone—Muslims and Christians alike—together in celebration.

Music in Wao is a fusion of kulintang ensemble, Christian choral hymns, and local acoustic serenades. Street parades during festivals are often accompanied by indigenous gongs, marching bands, and folk songs that highlight the town’s diverse musical roots.

Wao is known as the “Agri-Basket of Lanao del Sur” due to its vast cornfields, sugarcane plantations, and vegetable farms. It’s also famous for being a symbol of peaceful coexistence, with decades of successful integration between Muslim and Christian settlers—something truly rare and admirable in Mindanao’s complex cultural history.