#MINDANAO
John Tria
I traveled the length of the Davao Cotabato highway last week. I caught sight of the famous gorgeous sunset over the Moro Gulf. Travelling the five-hour stretch between Davao and Cotabato cities, at daytime and nigh time, I passed many parts of a four-lane, well-lit highway, with eating places, and signs of the cultural and economic potential there, and sights of people wearing welcoming smiles going about their daily lives.
Passing through leaves impressions and reflections that provoke thought and inspire hope.
Firstly, this highway spans the second largest river basin in the country with the Mindanao River, its headwaters going all the way from the Bukidnon highlands of Central Mindanao to the Moro Gulf on the shores of Cotabato City. According to the DENR river basin website, it covers 20,859.41 sq. km , four regions and 163 separate towns and cities. Within this vast mainly rolling plain are 12 major watersheds surrounded by several volcanoes including Mt. Apo, Mt. Melebingoy (Parker) and Mt. Matutum in South Cotabato. Such geographic features are the reason for its agricultural potential, making it a major source of staple crops such as rice and corn, and cash crops. The gentle year-round climate makes production consistent. Over the past few months, there have been some challenges with excessive rain causing flooding in many parts.
The second reflection is the historic significance of this area. For one, the Tamontaka River In Cotabato is the site where Spaniards seeking to push inward into the basin were often repulsed, and it is through this same basin that American and Filipino fighters pushed all the way to Davao del Norte in decisive battles to defeat Japanese forces toward the end of World War 2.
The third reflection is on its diversity. With mixed migrant and indigenous communities and cultures, parts of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region make for interesting cultural attractions in many parts of this basin worth visiting. Trade is robust and business potential will grow further as more visitors travel to this area.
The fourth is the basin’s, and therefore the region’s economic potential. The food production capacities and mineral deposits in North and South Cotabato are well known, making these two provinces economic engines. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region which has seen impressive 7.5 percent growth in 2021 will grow further. In the recent historic first ever Bangsamoro Business Congress in Cotabato City, these economic potentials were highlighted in a well-designed and executed event graced by BARMM Government Chief Minister Ahod B. Ebrahim Al Haj and Bangsamoro’s business sector led by Bangsamoro business council chairman Ronald Torres. This historic coming together of Bangsamoro entrepreneurs combined with the economic growth in North and South Cotabato heralds many hopes for growth and prosperity.
Given these reflections, this historic highway connects trade, lives and livelihoods as well as political paths for hundreds of years. Its future is as bright as the sun that shines on it, lighting up vistas that help us imagine the peaceful and prosperous lives that it can foster.
Much more needs to written and many more dramatic pictures need to be taken about this road and expanse that surrounds it.
Cacao Culture’s new products
Mindanao’s homegrown artisanal chocolate maker Cacao Culture has come out with a coffee nama chocolate, which brings a smoothness and flavor that marries Davao’s homegrown grown cacao and rich coffee into delectable nama cubes. Look them up, if you are looking for a classy gift for friends.