Lake Sebu is a 2nd class municipality in the province of South Cotabato. The economy of Lake Sebu is based on aquaculture of tilapia grown in large fish cages floating in the lake. More than one half of the land around the lake is cultivated for agriculture. It also promoted as an eco-tourism destination.
It is the most visited among the tourist destinations that can be found in South Cotabato. This municipality is rich in natural scenic spots, luxuriant nature, and a well-preserved culture of the indigenous people still living there. It attracts lots of tourist in and out of the country. It is known for having seven amazing cascades of water that are lined up one after the other, plus 3 lakes. Lake Sebu is surrounded by rolling hills and mountains covered with thick rainforests. Around the lake, wild boars and Philippine Deer that are considered endangered are living. The rainforest in the mountains and lakes are also a natural habitat to egrets, kingfishers, swallows, herons, Philippines cockatoos, and kites.
The lakeshore and the surrounding rainforest are home to the indigenous T’bolis, Tirurays, Ubos, and Manobos. The T’bolis are one of the major tribes and they are known for their weaving skills, brassware production, and fishing skills. They also sells souvenir items like wood carvings and bead accessories in a very cheap price.
The seven waterfalls are namely 1-7 according to their sequential order. The first falls is the easiest to reach, is called Dongon falls or Hikong Alu in local language, which means passage. The second falls, which is the highest among the seven falls, is called Hikong Bente which means immeasurable. The third falls is called Hikong B’lebed which means coil or zigzag. The fourth falls is called Hikong Lowig which means booth. The fifth falls is Hikong Kefoi which means wild flower. The sixth falls is called Hikong Ukol which means short. And the seventh and the last falls is Hikong Tonok which means soil. From the first falls, you can go to the second falls by trekking or walking.
You need to experience the thrilling adventure offered in this place, like ziplining and trekking. The sad part is that swimming and bathing are not allowed there. The zipline will take you to the other valley and will give you a magnificent and breathtaking view of the other waterfalls. The majestic view of the green forest and waterfalls of Lake Sebu will give you a memory that you will never forget.
The place is also blessed with 3 lakes namely, Lake Lahit, Lake Sebu, and Lake Seloton. The local tribesmen consider the lakes not only a God-given food basket but also a miraculous body of water that never dries up. The lakes are abundant in tilapia fish. The people sell live tilapia and their specialty is the chicharong tilapia (crispy tilapia rinds). You can also have a boat ride around the lake. There are huts in the lakeside where you can rest, eat, and marvel at the surroundings.
Another tourist destination in the municipality is the house and weaving school of Lang Dulay, a t’nalak weaver and National Living Treasure, and Santa Cruz Mission School. Santa Cruz Mission School has a charming architecture which is very much reflective of the local culture.
Going to this place is a great experience for nature lovers and an ideal escape for people longing for adventure. Fresh and cool air, delicious food, and exciting activities are all waiting for you!
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