"South Cotabato, Mindanao's Breadbasket" Province of South Cotabato by avelmans

Lake Sebu is situated on the mountains of Surallah, overlooking Allah Valley. About 2 hours away from Gensan and a mere hour from Koronadal City (SoCot's capital) by car on cemented road, this municipality is province's best tourist destination. Altho frequented mostly by locals, it has been gaining on visits from foreign tourists. To die for are the large array of for-sale native brass trinkets, adornments, costumes of the native T-boli tribe which reside here. Stay at the Punta Isla Resort which offers an hour's boat tour around the lake and serves a variety of mouth-watering Tilapia fish dishes. Noteworthy is the Tilapia kinilaw and the crispy Tilapia fingers.

Sunset @ Dole's Pineapple Plantation

The Municipality of Polomok in South Cotabato is a mere 15 kilometer away from Gensan. It hosts the biggest pineapple plantation in the world (DOLE) & is also the country's top asparagus & cut-flower producer. Situated at the foot of majestic Mt. Matutum, Polomolok is home to two monasteries. One is the Trappistine's monastery located at the volcano's foot and the Monastery of the Poor Clares Sisters, both must-see sights. Not to be missed are two natural spring water pools along the National Highway and a tour to the farm of a world-class exporter of bottled fruits.

Lobby of Fitmart Mall

Koronadal City, right smack in the center of Koronadal Valley, has a healthy agri-based economy. No wonder it has about 2 large malls and is considered as the province's Shopping Capital. Must see is the Notre Dame of Marbel University, the Hilltop Restaurant with its fantastic view of the valley, and local public market which sells native T-boli trinkets.

• Pros:Breath-taking nature sights, Very cheap local fruits
• Cons:Non-stop picture taking & eating
• In a nutshell:Valley of the Gods