Maitum

Maitum is a municipality in the province of Sarangani, part of the Soccsksargen region on the island of Mindanao, Philippines. It is one of the municipalities that make up the coastal and inland landscape of Sarangani and is connected by local roads to neighboring towns. The town includes several barangays and hosts agricultural and coastal communities.

Maitum is best known internationally for the Maitum archaeological finds, including ancient burial jars and other artifacts excavated from caves in the area. Discovered in the late 20th century, the Maitum jars are among the Philippines' most important prehistoric artifacts and have contributed to understanding of early mortuary practices in the region.

Historically, Maitum has been inhabited by various indigenous and migrant communities and developed as an agricultural town during the modern era. The local economy is primarily based on farming and fishing, with coconuts, corn, and rice among the common crops, supplemented by small businesses and services to support the population.

The population comprises multiple ethnolinguistic groups, with Cebuano as a widely spoken language alongside Filipino and local languages. Local governance follows the Philippine municipal system, with an elected mayor and municipal council. The town also features natural landscapes and archaeological sites that attract researchers and visitors.