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THE COAT OF ARMS OF
THE ARCHDIOCESE OF COTABATO
BLASON:
Azure, on a mound Vert issuant from the base point, a double-towered castle Argent, masoned, door and windows Sable; in dexter chief a Latin cross Patonce, and in sinister chief a crowned mullet of eight points with an increscent at its sinister base, horns pointing toward the dexter chief, all Or.
The Shield is surrounded by mitre
SYMBOLISM
The green (Vert) mound symbolizes the fertile lands of Mindanao, where the province of Cotabato is situated. The blue (Azure) field represents the Moro Gulf to the west of Cotabato, known for its abundant fishing grounds.
At the center, the white (Argent) stone fortress signifies Cotabato itself—its name derived from Kuta Watu in Maguindanaon or Kota Batu in Malay, both meaning "stone fortress."
The gold (Or) Latin cross Patonce stands for the Christian faith that took root in Mindanao, a testament to the region’s enduring spiritual heritage.
Above the fortress is a gold (Or) crowned mullet of eight points representing the Immaculate Virgin Mary, Patroness of the Archdiocese. It also pays tribute to the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI), whose unwavering mission played a vital role in the evangelization of Cotabato. The mullet and crescent also reflect the deep cultural and religious identity of the Muslim communities who likewise call Cotabato home.
Above the shield is a bishop’s miter, adorned with traditional Cotabato textile patterns, highlighting the cultural identity of the people it represents.
As can be observed, the current coat of arms preserves key heraldic elements from the original emblem used during the time when the territory was known as the Prelature Nullius of Cotabato, which then included Jolo within its ecclesiastical jurisdiction. Notably, the updated design omits the Vinta boat, while introducing the Latin cross and a revised symbol of the Immaculate Conception, reflecting both continuity and development in the Archdiocese’s identity.