Nested in the northwest portion of Maguindanao, one of the component provinces of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Cotabato City is a favorite tourist destination. Visiting the places that the city is proud of can give foreign and local tourists a very unforgettable experience. Each of the places has its own way of bringing back visitors to the city’s historic past.

One tourist attraction of the city which is rich in historical and cultural legacy is the Kutawato Cave. Located at the foot of the “Tantawan” or P.C. Hill, it is the only cave in the entire country located in the heart of the city. It has four major entrances namely, Provincial Capitol Cave, Bagua Cave, Caverna Español, and the Kuweba ni Satur, all of which offer various natural attractions like rock formations, saltwater ponds, underground rivers, and an army of fruit bats. Each wide entrance offers a unique experience to visitors.

Found at the Barangay Poblacion I, featuring white walls with beige and brownish shades that glitter in the dark, the cave is reputed to be seven kilometers long and made of formidable solid rock.

Back to the Olden Times of Kutawato Caves

The city’s present name originated from these caves. "KUTA" means FORT and "WATO" means STONE, hence the name "Fort of Stone," which later on became Cotabato. The caves was once a haven to the natives during the Spanish era when the colony tried to convert them into the Castellan faith.

When the Japanese power spread all over the natives, it became a silent witness of many souls who were tortured and exploited through the hands of harsh colony. Their thirst for freedom and democracy echoed their faint moans and cries that were buried in the bosoms of the caves, muted for over half a century.

The Kutawato Caves Today

The historical caves was formally re-opened and blessed on September 19, 1996. It echoes a colorful past of the Cotabateños back to the days when no foreign foot yet trampled upon this island. Many locals visit the place and reminisce the rich past behind the heroism of their ancestors.

For many adventurers, it is an ideal and thrilling spot where they can do some spelunking activities. It is a good haven for tour especially for those students.

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Taking a peek at the rich Kutawato history will give a realization how blessed our nation with the natural wonders and rich history as well.