Lake Agco
Lake Agco is quickly earning its reputation as one of Mindanao's top tourist destinations. Officially known as Lake Agco Mahomanoy Mountain Resort, it is strategically located at the foot of Mt. Apo (the country's highest peak) in Ilomavis, Kidapawan City. The tourism industry in the Philippines has recognized its potential in attracting local and foreign tourists, which is why they have worked to develop and improve this site while also embracing nature as the main attraction.
Aside from the beautiful scenery of the nearby Mt. Apo, Lake Agco resort offers visitors with a breathtaking view of nearby falls, lakes, and lagoons. There is also a rich array of flora and fauna in the area, which continues to thrive and offer something for tourists to feast their eyes on. Some of the climbers to Mt. Apo often stop by Lake Agco for a dip or simply to relax. This is one reason why Lake Agco is flocked by tourists from all parts of the country and the world all-year round.
Lake Agco is operated and managed by the Community of Local Agribusiness Partners Multi-Purpose Cooperative. They are responsible for overseeing the resort's day to day operations. This cooperative is made up of farmers and tribal groups that was formed through the efforts of Social Corporate Responsibility Program. One of their main goals is to help protect and preserve watershed areas and other natural environment features in the region.
Visitors to Lake Agco will bask in the lush greeneries offered by the surrounding forest that make up Mt. Apo's foothill. Lake Agco, one of the four major lakes in the area, provides the main water source in the resort.
Both hot and cold water meet at an elevation of 1,250 meters, wherein the cold and hot springs are frequented by tourists who wanted to enjoy a dip while checking out the wonderful sights in the resort. The hot spring is known to be hot enough that it can even boil an egg if you leave it for a few minutes! This is made possible by an underground vent and the presence of the mineral Sulfur, which is also celebrated for its medicinal value. There is also a 25-meter outdoor swimming pool wherein the entire family can enjoy and relax.
For all those who are interested to visit Lake Agco, it is a 24-kilometer drive from Kidapawan City. Thankfully, the road leading up to Barangay Ilomavis is well maintained to ensure a comfortable ride. If you do not have a private vehicle, you can also ride a jeep or van. The approximate travel time takes 45 minutes. There also other options for public transport, such as a single motorcycle or locally known as “habal-habal”, which costs PhP 70 per person. The entrance fee is also very affordable at PhP 15 and the cottages can be rented for approximately PhP 200. If there are no more cottages available, you may set up your own tent at their campsites.
Lake Agco Mountain Resort has been dubbed as the “Eden of Kidapawan”, wherein Eden is another famous nature park or resort in Davao City, Philippines. It is a place wherein you can experience nature at its best and is a vacation you won't soon forget.