Brittannika drives South Cotabato tourism

TUPI, South Cotabato — While visitors flock to South Cotabato for the scenic beauty of Lake Sebu, the thrill of the 7 Falls Zipline, and the province’s rich cultural heritage, another attraction is quietly carving out a niche of its own in the region’s tourism landscape.

Nestled along the national highway between Tupi and Koronadal City, Brittannika Golf Course is steadily emerging as one of South Cotabato’s hidden gems, attracting golfers from across Mindanao and increasingly drawing visitors looking for a different kind of getaway — one that blends sport, relaxation and the natural beauty of the province.

Located in Barangay Linan, Tupi, the 18-hole public course has become a favorite among golfers seeking a less crowded alternative to the country’s more established golf destinations. Local tourism advocates have described Brittannika as a “relaxing escape” and one of Tupi’s standout attractions, earning high marks from visitors for its course conditions, clubhouse facilities, and warm hospitality.

Beyond the fairways

What makes Brittannika unique is its role in expanding South Cotabato’s tourism offerings beyond its traditional eco-tourism and cultural attractions.

For years, the province has been known for destinations such as Lake Sebu, home to the famous Seven Falls and one of the country’s longest and highest ziplines, as well as Tupi’s fruit farms, sunflower fields, and the rich cultural traditions of the T’boli people.

Brittannika adds another dimension to that experience.

Visitors can spend a morning on the fairways before exploring nearby tourist attractions, enjoying local cuisine, or venturing to Lake Sebu and neighboring communities. This combination of golf and leisure tourism is helping position South Cotabato as a destination capable of offering more than just nature and adventure.

THE first hole is a challenging tee shot into a narrow fairway.

A mountain-view golf retreat

Set amid rolling landscapes with panoramic mountain views, Brittannika offers an 18-hole layout that combines a challenging championship course with a more forgiving executive section, making it appealing to both seasoned golfers and newcomers.

The property also functions as a resort-style destination. Guests can stay in air-conditioned accommodations overlooking the surrounding countryside, dine at the clubhouse restaurant, practice at the elevated driving range, or simply enjoy the peaceful setting that has become one of the course’s most praised features.

Many visitors highlight the course’s scenic backdrop and relaxed atmosphere, describing it as a place where golf feels less rushed and more connected to the surrounding environment.

Building a sports tourism hub

Brittannika’s growing profile has been reinforced by its hosting of major tournaments, including the Governor’s Cup Golf Tournament, President’s Cup Golf Tournament, and tournaments organized by the Junior Golf Foundation of the Philippines, bringing players and guests from different parts of the country to South Cotabato.

These events generate visitor traffic not only for the golf course but also for nearby hotels, restaurants, transport providers and tourist destinations, creating economic opportunities that extend beyond the fairways.

Local tourism stakeholders see sports tourism as an important complement to South Cotabato’s established attractions. As more travelers seek experiences that combine recreation, wellness, and nature, destinations like Brittannika are helping diversify the province’s tourism portfolio.

An emerging tourism asset

With its accessible location, quality facilities, and proximity to some of Mindanao’s most celebrated attractions, Brittannika is steadily becoming more than just a golf course.

It is evolving into a gateway for visitors to discover South Cotabato — a province where championship golf can be paired with mountain adventures, cultural encounters, farm tourism, and some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region.

For golfers looking to venture beyond the usual destinations, Brittannika offers something increasingly rare: a chance to experience the game in a setting where the fairways are matched by the beauty and character of the place that surrounds them.