1. Bud Bongao
2. Badjao Village
3. Bolobok Cave
During our visit, together with Ian Miller, we were unable to enter Bolobok Cave because of the high tide. We only entered the opening but weren't able to go deeper due to the strong water current. The area at the beach is relaxing because it is surrounded by greens, such as trees and coconuts, and the cool sea breeze makes it more adorable.
4. Balobok Rock Shelter
The Balobok Rockshelter is evidence of human presence in Mindanao. Accidentally discovered in 1963 by Mt. Assiong Bangali of Tubig Basag Primary School as he took refuge during a sudden downpour. In 1966, it was reported to the National Museum of the Philippines by Mr. Eric Casino. Discovered here were shell and stone adzes, flaked tools, and earthen wares.
5. Provincial Capitol
The provincial capitol is situated on a higher spot, which means that there's a clear view of the nearby municipalities and islands. Before sunset, this place serves as a park where lovers and families can date, students can study, and dancers can practice.
6. Panampangan Island
7. Sibutu Natural Wildlife Sanctuary
8. Turtle Islands
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| A gorgeous view on the summit of Bud Bongao. |
For me, the Province of Tawi-Tawi is the hardest province to penetrate because of its geographical location. Not only that, it is always associated with "war" and, most of the time, being judged and considered as "unsafe" for travelers, which I disagree with! Bongao is the busiest municipality in the province but has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations that are just waiting to be recognized.
How to Get to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi:
- What I did was buy a ticket bound for Bongao at Aleson Shipping Lines. Fare: 1,100 Pesos. ETD Zambonga City: 6:48 PM, ETA Bongao: 12:20 PM (the next day). For Aleson's schedule, please visit their Facebook page. There are other shipping companies with the same route but different schedules.
- Via Air: Cebu Pacific has scheduled flights from Manila to Bongao.
Contact Person and Tour Guide:
- I highly recommend Shiela, who can be reached at 09068329816. She is very friendly and accommodating. She has a great talent for cooking - ANSARAP NYA MAG-LUTO PROMISE!!! She has a room for tourist accommodation, and she can arrange a boat to Panampangan Island - which has the longest sandbar in the Philippines.
Where to Stay in Tawi-Tawi:
By the port, I found Kuya Hotels and Restaurant, while others are Rachel's Place, Beachside Inn Hotel and Restaurant, and Sandbar Lepa and Restaurant. READ: Solo-Backpacking in ZamBaSulTa, Zamboanga Provinces and Misamis Occidental. Or, book at Almari Beach Resort via Agoda by clicking the photo below:
CLICK HERE TO HOMEPAGE: LIST OF ALL PROVINCES