History. Culture. Resources.

MUNATO is a local indigenous term for Sarangani Province’s “first people”.  Pottery shards and jars found in a cave in the municipality of Maitum attest to the province’s early cultural history dating back to as far as 5 BC and others that are believed to be dating back to the Late Stone period of at least 3,000 years ago.  These pot shards are unique because of their anthropomorphic designs that are shaped like portraits of individuals.   These jars may have served as the containers of remains of individuals.

Today, Munato is a festival and a celebration of Sarangani’s history, culture and resources celebrated every last week of November every year.

This year, on the 20^th anniversary of the province, it will be celebrated from November 28-30, 2012.

There would be a Shootfest, a Fun Run, a municipal showcase of its products called Fabli Gu Ni at the Municipal Village at the Capitol Grounds, Horse Fight or Saket Kura, Palagunian Competition or Kulintangan, Traditional Moro Food Competition or Kadtigi sa Kapangiluto, Drum and Lyre Competition, Art Workshop for Children, Battle of the Bands, Streetdancing, Pearl of Sarangani and fireworks to cap the festival.

Sarangani also boasts of white and black sand beaches, pristine aquablue sea, abundant aqua and agriculture divided amongst its seven (7) towns.

Go on an adventure and discover the history, culture and resources of Sarangani Province at the Munato Festival!

HOW TO GET THERE:

Major airlines have daily flights from Manila to General Santos City.  The Provincial Capitol is located in Alabel town just 15 minutes away from General Santos City.  From the airport, take a taxi to KCC Mart where the van terminal is. Take the van to Glan. Van fare is Php80 (US$1.87).

Public utility airconditioned vans from General Santos city ply daily routes to Sarangani`s 7 towns. Going east side or to Alabel, Malapatan and Glan go to KCC Mall, and if you are going to Sarangani`s west side or Maasim, Kiamba and Maitum, go to Laurel North or Ablog terminal in particular. and if you are going to Malungon, the only non-coastal town of the province, buses and vans in Bulaong terminal are available.