Cotabato City is a destination with a rich history dating back to the 15th century when Arab missionaries introduced Islam to the native tribal groups. The faith became a cornerstone in the development of the region. Eventually, this lead to the Sultanate of Maguindanao being established, this rulership covered the province in which Cotabato resides.

During the 17th century, the region stepped into its golden age. During this time, Cotabato City began on its path to becoming a significant destination within the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. To this day, the region’s population consists of 80% Muslims. The rest of the population is mostly made up of Christians, specifically Roman Catholics.

The Grand Mosque in modern-day Mindanao

As somewhat of a homage to the regions Islamic roots, the second largest mosque in Southeast Asia known as the Grand Mosque was built in Cotabato. This giant mosque, on Tamontaka Bubong Road, is the largest of its kind in the Philippines. This structure occupies an area of 5,000 square meters and is built on a 5-hectare plot of land. The Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah Masjid, also known as the Grand Mosque or Golden Mosque also features gold-plated domes with minarets which are over 40 meters high.

The Sultan of Brunei, to whom the Grand Mosque was named after personally funded the construction of the mosque. The Sultan had an interest in developing the emerging Muslim community in the Southern Philippines. Through the efforts of former Congressman Didagen Dilangalen, the Sultans investment of Php300 million in the region took place.

Interestingly the project, which was completed in 2011 was designed by Christian architect, Felino Palafox. The mosque also houses many guards who hold the Christian faith, this reflects the harmonious relationship between the different faiths of the region hold.

Cotabato is a relatively practical destination for tourists to visit, as the countries, major airlines such as Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have daily flights to the city.