Maitum, Sarangani
Maitum is a municipality located in the province of Sarangani, Philippines.
Internationally, Maitum is known for the discovery of very old cave artifacts called Maitum Anthropomorphic Potteries.
Its economy is largely based on agriculture and is often called the "rice-granary" of Sarangani due to its high level production of rice. Aqua-culture is the second biggest income earner, notably the culture of milkfish (bangus), prawns (particularly giant prawns) and shrimps for export. Other agricultural products are coconuts, corn, sugarcane, bananas, pineapples, mangoes; pork, eggs, beef; fish. Maitum is also a food basket nationally famous for its dried fish.
The economy has accelerated in the past decade driven by advances in global communication technology and the finishing of a modern highway that tremendously improved trade and transport.
It is nationally known for its well-enforced solid waste disposal system. This system has been largely successful throught the support of its residents through the years.
Starting from 1928, Maitum was part of the Municipality of Kiamba. It finally became a separate municipality in May 7, 1959 when Maitum was created through Republic Act 2189.
At the present the municipality of Maitum is composed of 19 barangays.
Caves and the rainforest of Maitum are the natural habitat of a rare fruit bat species called Giant Golden-crowned Flying Fox (Acedoron jubatus). The rare Writhed-billed Hornbill and Tarictic Hornbill are also found in the surrounding rainforest. The Philippine Eagle (a monkey-eating eagle) also thrives in the area.
The endangered Hawksbill Turtles have their nesting grounds in Maitum's former main village called "Old Poblacion".
Other wild animals are wild boar, deer, monkeys, and various species of snake.
Nature lovers will certainly enjoy the unspoiled rainforest around Maitum.
Quick facts
Economy
Industry
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Cottage industry
Infrastructure
Technology
Although it can be considered a "remote" town its population enjoys reliable communication facilities brought by advances in cellphone technology. A modern highway connects it to major towns and cities. Several private schools provide computer technology courses. People
The majority of the population are of Ilocano origin. One of the indigenous peoples living in mountainous areas of Maitum is known as T'boli. The annual Binuyugan Festival is celebrated in May. Brief history
According to the Local Folklore Maitum refers to the black stones in Saub River. It is believed that "the river stones turned black when the local native princess and her warrior lover passed through it as they eloped and escaped from the wrath of the princess' father who disapproved their marriage". "Maitum" is a native term meaning black.Archeology
This remote and for a very long time totally unknown town attained international prominence with the discovery of very old cave artifacts called Maitum Anthropomorphic Potteries in one of the caves nearby.Wildlife
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Another sensational event was the discovery of the existence of tarsiers in its mountainous areas. The presence of tarsiers has eventually attained official recognition.Geography
reference: Philippine department of interior and local government [1]Topography
- moderately rolling with spots of gently rolling terrain
This serves as fishing ground for fishermen.
Swamp areas for fishpond development
Demography
reference: Philippine department of interior and local government [1]Local government
There are 14 offices of the local government:
Noted personalities