The Province of Basilan is an island province in the Bangsamoro Region. Its old name was Tagime, and it was named after a Datu who ruled the island before the arrival of the Spaniards in the province. Its name was changed several times until BasihBalan, derived from their legendary weapon called “pira”, which was made of basic iron and Balan, meaning magnetic, which was shorted to Basilan. Not just history, the province also hides amazing tourist attractions.
Tourist Spots in Basilan:
- Pahali Resort, Malamawi
- Basilan Provincial Capitol
- Isabela City Plaza
- Isabela Cathedral
Travelling to Isabela City, Basilan is less than two hours from the port of Zamboanga City. Is it safe in Basilan? It's a YES! There is news about ASG and terrorist acts happening in the province, but it doesn't mean that it's not safe. Two cities in Basilan, Lamitan (the capital) and Isabela (part of Region 9) serve as the centre. Like in other cities, huge business establishments, transportation, and people are present on every corner. From the port of Isabela City, while holding my mobile phone and using Google Maps, I walked on the streets to the city's different tourist spots, attractions, and destinations. Did this alone, and it's safe.
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| Stunning photo of Basilan Provincial Capitol. |
Basilan's provincial capitol is artistic and within walking distance of the port. First, I had breakfast at Jollibee while staring at the capitol's gorgeous walls. This is the building where the seat of the most powerful people in the province is situated. It is one of the centres; therefore, the streets surrounding the area are busy.
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| Photo captured at the Isabela City Plaza. |
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| Photo: Isabela Cathedral. |
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| Selfie at I love Isabela signboard, Basilan. |
One must-visit in Isabela City is the famous Malamawi Island, where the whitest and finest sand can be found. Pahali Resort has a relaxing ambience because it is surrounded by coconuts and trees, which protect the cottages against the sun. As mentioned, there's a long stretch of super fine white sand, and the water is cool and crystal clear, which can be compared to what Boracay has. To visit the port, take a 15-minute habal ride.
Where to Stay in Basilan:
- If you stay overnight, affordable hotels can be found in the city.
- A friend of mine recommended the Sophia Hotel in Isabela.
How to Go to Basilan:
- By Air: Book a flight from Manila to Zamboanga City. Travel time is about an hour and fifteen minutes. Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have daily flights to their international airport.
- Then, I bought a FastCraft Ferry ticket at the port to Isabela City.
Travel Tips and Reminder:
Solo backpacking is safe! Don't be shocked by the presence of the PNP and army with their long firearms. I talked to different locals, and they are friendly. They will answer your questions and give suggestions (if you're asking about location and transportation). Just don't forget to bring your smile! READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING: ZamBaSulTa, Zamboanga Provinces and Misamis Occidental
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Day 1 – Explored Zamboanga CityDay 2 – Discovered the Beauty of Tawi-Tawi
Day 3 and 4 – Habal Tour in Jolo, Sulu
Day 5 – The Stunning Malamawi Island of Basilan
Day 6 – What's Inside Jose Rizal Shrine, Dapitan
Day 7 – Visited Fort sa Cotta, Misamis Occidental