Cotabato City City Guide

Local dishes like pastil and beef sinina are popular. Food options focus on Filipino and halal fare, with limited international variety. Street food is common late at night.

Nightlife is low-key, mainly local eateries and casual spots.

Local coffee shops exist, but no strong specialty coffee scene.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Around 10% in restaurants if no service charge. Small cash tips for taxis and hotel staff are common.

SIM cards are sold at provider stores and mall kiosks. Globe, Smart, and DITO are main networks. eSIMs are available from Globe and Smart. SIM registration with ID and passport is required.

Street cleanliness varies, and waste management is less developed compared to bigger cities.

Some pharmacies have late hours but not reliably 24/7. Convenience stores may be open all day. Street food stalls often operate late.

Major supermarkets like CityMall and Mall of Alnor carry local and some imported goods. Local wet markets open early and offer fresh produce. Bargaining is normal in wet markets but not supermarkets.

Cards work in malls and big supermarkets. You’ll need cash for small shops, markets, and public transport like tricycles.

ATMs are found in major malls and banks. Foreign cards may incur withdrawal fees of about PHP 200-250 per transaction.

Local schools include Notre Dame University and Mindanao State University - Maguindanao. Instruction is mainly in Filipino and English.

Cotabato City lacks a clear digital nomad scene or co-living options.

Some parks and riverside areas offer green space, though shaded walking paths are limited.

Tantawan Park and river areas offer running paths. Safety varies; stay cautious in less busy spots.

There are local gyms and fitness centers, but specific details are limited.

Information on tennis courts is not available.

Information on padel courts is not available.

No known yoga studios or wellness centers.

No specific info on martial arts.

No skiing due to tropical climate.

Water sports and boat races happen on the Rio Grande de Mindanao during festivals.

No surfing in Cotabato City. Surf spots are far away on Mindanao's eastern coast.

No diving sites near Cotabato City; dive locations are on coastal islands far away.

Cotabato Regional and Medical Center is the main hospital, with English-speaking staff in larger clinics. Private facilities usually offer better service.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water instead.

There are some parks and cultural sites good for families. Baby supplies are found in major supermarkets and pharmacies.

The city is conservative due to Muslim majority, so LGBTQ+ acceptance is moderate.

Pet-friendly info is limited. Veterinary services exist.