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, its capital, is the busiest municipality in the province but has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations that are just waiting to be recognized.
Tawi-Tawi Tourist Spots:
- Bud Bongao
- Badjao Village
- Bolobok Cave
- Balobok Rock Shelter
- Panampangan Island
- Sibutu Natural Wildlife Sanctuary
- Turtle Islands
My Day 2 started when the RoRo vessel docked at the Port of Bongao. It was a little over 10 in the morning, but I could still feel the cool and relaxing breeze of Bongao. I also had time to watch the Bajaos diving for coins. Instead of getting off alone, he instructed me to stay on the bunk bed of the ship, so I stayed and waited for him. And there, we finally met. There was a weird feeling while walking to the exit of the port. Seems like everyone was watching us; ah, maybe I was wearing a sando with this huge magenta and pink bag. Nonetheless, I still felt secure because I was with a local. Then, using a motorcycle, we travelled 20 minutes to Sheila's residence near the Airport. Had a sumptuous lunch and headed to the attractions below.
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| Photo of the beach near Bolobok Cave. |
During our visit, Ian Miller and I 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.
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| Photo at the entrance of Balobok Rock Shelter. |
The Balobok Rock Shelter 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, Mr. Eric Casino reported it to the National Museum of the Philippines. Shell and stone adzes, flaked tools, and earthen wares were discovered here.
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| Photo of Sulu Provincial Capitol. |
The Sulu 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.
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| Photo of Bud Bongao and the Badjao Village. |
Bud Bongao is one of the top tourist destinations, and YES, it is sacred and serves as a pilgrimage site for our Muslim brothers and sisters. The trail to the summit is an assault, though; it is concrete and has railings. Monkeys are on every side of the trail, so take care of your belongings and don't panic.
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| A Beautiful photo of Bud Bongao. |
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| Photo: A view taken on the summit of Bud Bongao. |
How to Get to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi:
- By Air: Cebu Pacific has scheduled flights from Manila to Bongao.
- By Sea: I bought 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 that use the same route but with different schedules.
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:
- PangPang by Shiela
- Kuya Hotels and Restaurant
- Rachel's Place
- Beachside Inn Hotel and Restaurant
- Sandbar Lepa and Restaurant
- Almari Beach Resort
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:
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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