Summer Capital of the Southern Philippines - Lake Sebu

The first time hubby mentioned we were going to Lake Sebu, I thought we were going to fly to Cebu in the Visayas. Its funny how people from the northern Philippines (well, me included) are so ignorant of the beautiful spots here in the south. The only lake in the country that I knew then was the Taal Lake. Excuse my ignorance that first time, but when we went over to Lake Sebu I was truly amazed.

Lake Sebu is a natural inland sea located in the municipality of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato within the Allah Valley region. It is home to a number of local tribes such as the T'boli, Tasadays or Ubos and the Tirurays. Lake Sebu is one of the protected watersheds in the country, providing irrigation to the provinces of Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato.   

It is also known as the Summer Capital of the Southern Philippines since it is situated in an elevation of roughly 1000ft. So the climate is typically cooler. There are a number of resorts there offering bed and breakfast. You can try the Punta Isla Resort, Estares Lake Resort, Artacho Resort or the Tourism Lodge to name a few. If you are a fan of the lowly tilapia, then you're in for a treat since it is served in most of the local restaurants and eateries there.. take your pick, you can have your tilapia "pinaputok"(deep fried), "ginataan" (with coconut milk), sinabawan (in a soup base) or grilled among others. You can also rent a boat ride which will take you around the lake in about 45 mins so you can enjoy the view and take photos.

Also in Lake Sebu is the magnificent Seven Falls. Of the seven, only two were accessible at the time we were there, Falls #1 or Dongon Falls and Falls #2. For first timers, I recommend wearing comfortable slippers (don't bother wearing your rubber shoes as these may get wet).I wouldn't advise bringing small kids down to the falls since the long trek down is really not suitable for them. I remember I had my one year old in tow the last time we went there, and she wanted to piggyback on the way back up so my feet were literally killing me at the time. Anyways, you can leave the small kids over at the picnic area by the baggage counter and ask for a number....kidding! =) 


The falls is one of the best ones I've seen. It's nature at its very best. The view of both falls left me in awe. 
                                                             
Going to Lake Sebu takes about 1 hour 30mins from Gensan and about 45mins from Koronadal City. You can take the Yellow bus going to Surallah or Koronadal over at the Bulaong terminal in Gensan. Once in Surallah, take the jeep going to Lake Sebu.

Come see for yourself why this place is dubbed as the Summer Capital of the Southern Philippines!
                                                                       

A View from Punta Isla Resort