SOCCSKSARGEN (Region XII)

Not every kind of help needs tools or a car. Sometimes a walk, a phone call or a coffee together is exactly what someone is missing, especially people who live alone. Would you like to give some time for a chat in Saran…

Almost every neighbourhood is home to people with many different first languages. In a language exchange two people learn from each other: half an hour in one language, half an hour in the other. Real friendships often …

Where do you actually meet up when you don't want to stay at home all the time? Youth centre, skate park, library or the meadow by the river: every place has its spots. Which hangouts in Sarangani can you recommend, and…

Your first own money disappears fast if you're not careful. A simple trick: write down everything you spend for one month, and you'll see where it goes. Put a small amount aside at the start of each month before buying …

Fresh vegetables, farm cheese or honey from nearby just taste better when you know where they come from. Where do you like to buy local produce in Sarangani, at the weekly market or straight from the farm? Share your re…

The playground, the ice-cream shop, the walk to school: many places hold memories that stay with us for life. What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of growing up in Sarangani? We'd love to hear your s…

Sometimes it's the cake, sometimes the view, sometimes just the staff who remember your name. Where do you like to have your coffee or tea in Sarangani? Share your tips in the comments!

=== Early history === The earliest civilization in the province can be found in Maitum, Sarangani, where the Maitum Anthropomorphic Pottery or Maitum Jars were found. The jars have been dated to approximately 5 BC to 37…

Sarangani, officially the Province of Sarangani (Cebuano: Lalawigan sa Sarangani; Hiligaynon: Kapuoran sang Sarangani; Maguindanaon: Dairat nu Sarangani, Jawi: دايرت نو سرڠان; Filipino: Lalawigan ng Sarangani), is a pr…

A weatherproof box where anyone can leave books, toys or kitchen bits and take something else: sustainability can be that simple. What matters is a good spot, permission from the owner or the council, and a few people w…

Not everyone finds smartphones, online bookings or long forms easy. Often a patient half hour is all it takes to help someone. Important: never take over passwords or bank details, go through it together step by step in…

Whether it's a part-time job in a café, delivering leaflets or tutoring: your first job brings not just money but confidence too. Make sure you get a written contract and that your hours fit around school or college. Wh…

A driving licence is a big step towards independence for many, but it takes time and money. Compare offers beforehand, study the theory regularly in small chunks and stay relaxed during lessons. Bikes and public transpo…

Every place can become a little nicer to live in, and locals often have the best ideas. What would you improve in South Cotabato: more benches, better cycle paths, a meeting place for young and old? Share your suggestio…

Not every day is sunny, and with kids you need good ideas when it pours. Where do you go in South Cotabato when it's wet outside: the library, the swimming pool, a board-game café, or puddle jumping after all? Share you…

Almost every region has a dish you won't find anywhere else, or a recipe handed down through the generations. What food simply belongs to South Cotabato? Tell us your favourites and where to try them!

=== Early history === Centuries ago, the area that would be the South Cotabato was sparsely inhabited by Maguindanaon pioneers and Lumads which are under Sultanate of Maguindanao's influence. The Spaniards launched expe…

South Cotabato, officially the Province of South Cotabato, is a province in the Philippines located in the Soccsksargen region in Mindanao. Its capital is Koronadal (also the regional center of Soccsksargen), and it bor…

A raised bed in the courtyard, a community garden or simply swapping cuttings and seeds: gardening connects generations. People without a garden of their own are often happy to share a bed. Do you have plants, tools or …

Snow and ice are a real challenge for older or unwell neighbours. If you're clearing your own path anyway, you can often do a few metres more. Sharing a bag of grit between several houses saves effort too. Who in Cotaba…