My first destination in Region 9 was Zamboanga Sibugay, 3.5 hours by land from Zamboanga City. Ipil, its capital, is the usual stopover for buses heading to the cities of Dipolog, Pagadian, and even Cagayan de Oro City. Like other municipalities, it's a center with big business establishments and busy streets. However, as a busy area, it hides something unique and is an Instagram-worthy tourist spot and attraction.
Take a photo of the famous Ipil Rotunda Obelisk: If you're from Zamboanga City, you will definitely pass by the circumferential road where the gigantic obelisk stands. It is iconic and can easily get your attention because of its unique design.
Visit the most artistic Provincial Capitol in the Philippines: I consider the provincial capitol of Zamboanga Sibugay the most artistic and colorful capitol I have visited. The colors, patterns, shape of the structure, and entire design are stunningly perfect. Aside from the artistic design of the capitol, the area was made special because of the mini-Disneyland exhibit in front. This exhibit includes real-life Disneyland mansions and castles.
Hotel in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay: I stayed overnight at GV Hotel, just a few meters away from Jollibee. It is one of the cheapest and most budget-friendly hotels in Ipil. For 570 pesos, the room has a toilet and bath, two single beds, cable TV, and a fan (because it's a fan room). The area is secured, near food establishments, BDO, and other banks.
How to Get to Ipil: Cebu Pacific has regular trips to the airports in Dipolog City, Pagadian City, and Zamboanga City. As previously mentioned, Ipil serves as the bus stopover. Thus, you can choose either of these 3 airports. Then, you can take Rural Transit buses; Ipil to Dipolog is 5.5 hours, Ipil to Pagadian is 3 hours, and Ipil to Zamboanga City is 4 hours. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING IN ZamBaSulta, Region 9, Misamis Occ.