Mindanao is one of the three island groups and the second largest island in the Philippines. Davao is the largest city in Mindanao. There is a sizable Muslim population in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur and Tawi-Tawi. These provinces belong to the ARMM or better known as the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao.
As the “Food Basket of the Philippines,” most (8 out of 10) agricultural commodities exported from this country come from here. Also, many consider and believe that this island is the “Land of Promise in the Philippines.”
The island was named after the Maguindanaons. It is ranked as eighth most populous in the world with 104,630 square kilometres land area. It is larger than Ireland, Portugal, Netherlands and 122 more countries in the world.
Mindanao is mountainous and is home to the highest Philippine mountain, Mt. Apo. The island is surrounded by four (4) seas: The Philippine Sea to the east, The Sulu Sea to the west, the Mindanao Sea to the north, and the Celebes Sea to the south. Almost everything that Mother Nature blessed the planet is found here, like rugged mountains, isolated volcanic peaks, swampy plains and exotic wildlife.
The island is tagged as the most culturally diverse. Here, people of different races, tribes, and languages meet. Mindanao is the melting pot of different cultures, which it creates a more distinctive culture, something you can’t find elsewhere in the country.
Most people on the island speak Cebuano, except for the Lumads and the Bangsamoro areas. In some places like Sultan Kudarat and some parts of North Cotabato, people speak in Ilonggo or Hiligaynon. On the other hand, the Spanish influence is evident in place like Zamboanga, where most people speak in Chavacano.
60.9% of the people are Roman Catholics and Islam comprises 20.44%, the rest is affiliated to different Christian groups.
In this island, you can see many different species of animals and plants. It has caves, falls, mountains, and rivers. It is rich of natural resources that feed its population with all the nutrients. Here, you can find the highest mountain (Mt. Apo) and the tallest waterfall (Limunsudan Falls) in the country.
There is an endless list of tourist spots here. Mt. Apo is one of the most climbed and visited mountain in the Philippines. Unfortunately, last month’s fire had destructed many parts of it and might need 5 years or a decade to recover.
Lake Sebu is one of the most popular destinations in the island. It offers wondrous scenery, where you can see monkeys, waterfall and the lake. The Seven Falls Zipline is the main attraction, where guests can see a top view of 3 out of the 7 waterfalls.
Siargao Island is very popular with local and tourist surfers. Its giant waves are like Cloud 9 for surfers. Here, you can see waves with shape like number “9.” Siargao is located in the beautiful province of Surigao del Norte. A fit body is needed for you to survive these monstrous waves. If you are not in good shape, note that there are many garcinia cambogia benefits including burning calories effectively and losing weight, which are essential to be in perfect shape and impress your friends on these nice Filipino beaches.
But if your visit to Mindanao is to have a world-class and fun-filled relaxation, go to Samal Island. It is a peaceful island blessed with nature’s abundance.
