3. The region, is located in the Mindanao island
group of the Philippines, that is composed of five
predominantly Muslim provinces, namely: Basilan
(except Isabela City), Lanao del Sur,
Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. It is the only
region that has its own government. The regional
capital is at Cotabato City, although this city is
outside of its jurisdiction.
3
4. 1380 - Muslims arrived in Tawi-tawi and natives converted to
Islam.
1457 - Sultanate of Sulu was established then Maguindanao and
Buayan followed.
The people collectively call themselves “Bangsamoro” to identify
themselves under the Islamic law and culture. They resisted the
three colonizers and nevertheless wasn’t annexed into the Philippine
government after the declaration of Independence. Most of it’s
territories have been separate so they were able to develop their own
identity. 4
5. 1970’s (Marcos Regime) when tensions escalated
between government forces and the (MNLF) Moro
National Liberation Front. This prompted the president
to issue a proclamation that created Autonomous Region in
Southern Mindanao.
Aug 1, 1989 - Creation of Autonomous Region in
Muslim Mindanao through RA 6734 aka Organic Act.
The ARMM was officially inaugurated on November 6,
1990 in Cotabato City.
5
6. 6
September 2, 1996, the MNLF and the
Philippine Government signed the final Peace
Agreement which led to the election of MNLF
chairman Nur Misuari as Regional Governor of
ARMM.
7. 7
The Peace Agreement also paved the way for the creation of the
Special Zone of Peace and Development (SZOPAD)
and Southern Philippines Council for Peace and
Development (SPCPD) which was established by virtue of
Executive Order No. 371 on October 21, 1996 by President Fidel
V. Ramos. Governor Misuari was named SPCPD Chairman.
Meanwhile, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF),
another Moro armed group, continued with their struggle. Armed
clashes between the military and the MILF escalated to a full war
by the year 2000 displacing some 400,000 persons.
8. 8
When Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo assumed the
Presidency on January 2001 after the ouster of
President Joseph E. Estrada, she reversed the all-out
war policy of the Estrada Administration and
initiated peace talks which led to the signing of a
ceasefire agreement on June 22, 2001.
Regional Governor: Mujiv S. Hataman
9. Basilan Isabela City
Lanao del Sur Marawi City
Maguindanao Shariff Aguak
Sulu Jolo
Tawi-tawi Bongao/Panglima Sugala
9
11. 11
Is an island province of the Philippines within
the Autonomous Region in Muslim
Mindanao (ARMM). It is the largest and northernmost
of the major islands of the Sulu Archipelago and is
located just off the southern coast of Zamboanga
Peninsula.
It composed of 11 municipalities and 2 cities.
12. 12
Its capital, Isabela City, is grouped together with Basilan
for geographical and statistical purposes, but is administered
independently as part of the Zamboanga Peninsula Region.
Basilan is home to three main ethnic groups, the
indigenous Yakans, and the later-
arriving Tausugs and Zamboangueño. The Yakans and
Tausugs are predominantly Muslim, while the Zamboangueño
are mainly Christian.
13. Basilan's derive its name from its iron ore deposits.
Tausug warriors and slave-traders from Sulu came to Taguima
to purchase high-quality of magnetic iron ores, which they
used for swords, knives and other blades. Thus, basih-
lan means "the iron (magnet) trail" or "the iron
way".
The lingua franca is Chavacano, a Spanish
creole dialect.
13
15. Zamboanga City is the main gateway to Basilan Island
which lies 17 nautical miles (narrowest point of the Basilan
Strait) due north. If you’re from Manila or Cebu, take a flight
to Zamboanga City then take a Jeepney bound for Canelar
and walk towards the port.
From there, a boat ride of 1 hour and 45 mins (for
conventional passenger ferries), or 1 hour (for a fast craft),
will take you to Isabela and Lamitan.
15
17. 17
Peninsula point called Punta matangal in Tuburan that offers
a haven for surfers very similar to that of the north shore of
Hawaii.
Rising from the waters at the shorelines are communities that
seem to float which are called Samal houses on stilts lined on both
sides by mangroves.
Malamawi Island, the gateway to Basilan, where can be found
the Badjao, Samal-Luaans-Banguingui, and Muslim cemeteries.
The island boasts of the only lake in the province with wild ducks
and is home to the Panigayan fishing village, an ideal spearfishing
destination.
20. 20
Do some water activities in the 14-meter-high waterfalls of the
Kumalarang River.
In the heart of Isabela is the Santa Isabel Cathedral with its
modern architectural design. Beside the cathedral is a display
center of native handicrafts like mats, bags, and other products
made of buri.
The most remarkable feature of Bulingan Falls are its walls.
One would suspect that it was a work by a landscape artist
utilizing columns of rocks beautifully arranged and piled on top of
each other, creating a wall that resembles a pipe organ. You will
be amazed to find out that the wall is a natural rock formation.
23. 23
Not far from Isabela proper is the Kaum Purnah Mosque
and Muslim Village, which shows Muslim culture through at
least three tribes.
The 400-meter-high Calvario Peak and its Chapel of Peace
are a delight to photographers.
Sumagdang Beach is a natural swimming resort amidst
coconut plantations, mini rice fields, and fishponds.
The next town of Lamitan is the best place to see the Yakan, a
peace-loving people known for colorful clothes hand woven with
intricate geometric designs as well as for elaborate weddings and
festivals.
25. 25
Be stunned by the huge number of rubber trees in the area
and how they were beautifully lined up. The canopy of rubber
trees are absolutely a feast in the eyes.
27. 27
Place: Lamitan, Basilan
Date: June 29
It is celebrated during the Feast of St. Peter (Fiesta San Pedro). The
Festival is highlighted by the participation of the Yakans who attend
the festivities in full regalia, selling wares and produce brought in
from their farms in the interior.
28. 28
Place: Isabela City, Basilan
Date: April 25
It is an annual commemoration of its Cityhood, is a week-
long series of activities culminating in the annual Street
Dancing parade
29. 29
Place: Isabela City, Basilan
Date: July 8
Celebrated in honor of its Patroness Saint Elizabeth of
Portugal (Span. Sta. Isabel de Portugal), the focal point of
the Fiesta celebrations happen around the Sta. Isabel
Cathedral. This is highlighted by a Procession and Novena
Masses, the traditional Bella Isabela Beauty Pageant,
marathon, regatta and other activities.
30. 30
Place: Basilan Province
Date: May 9
An Islamic event celebrating the nocturnal journey and
ascension of Muhammad.
Place: Basilan Province
Date: December 27
An Islamic celebration honoring the birthday of Muhammad.
32. 32
Lanao del Sur forms the western portion of Northern
Mindanao. It is bounded on the north by Lanao del Norte, on the
east by Bukidnon, on the west by Illana Bay, and on the south
by Maguindanao and Cotabato. The landscape is dominated by
rolling hills and valleys, placid lakes and rivers.
The province is subdivided into 39 municipalities and 1 city,
Marawi which the capital. Marawi City is now the only chartered
city in the country with predominantly Muslim population.
The Maranao dialect is the most commonly spoken. Also
spoken are Tagalog and Visaya as well as English and Arabic.
33. 33
Lanao comes from the word ranao, meaning "lake“. Lanao
centers on the basin of Lake Lanao; thus, it is the land of the
Maranaos, the "people of the lake“.
When the Spaniards first explored Lanao in 1689, they found a
well-settled community named Dansalan at the lake's northern
end. Dansalan became a municipality in 1907 and a city in 1940.
During the Pre-Spanish time, there are 4 important Boundaries
hold the power of appointing a new sultan namely: Bakayawan,
Dalama, Madambaand and Sawer. In appointing a new sultan the
permission of these four boundaries are needed to validate the new
sultan appointed to his position.
34. 34
By Air-Land:
From Manila, take a flight bound for Cotabato City.
Another option is to take a flight bound for Lanao del
Norte. From there, several taxis travels to Marawi City.
By Sea:
Manila to Cagayan de Oro City travel by sea takes about an
entire day. Once at the port, there are available public
vehicles bound for Marawi City.
36. 36
Aga Khan Museum
Location: Mindanao State University, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
Named in honor of King Aga Khan who contributed to the
realization of the museum. Historical development is banked on
the large space where cultural materials where conserved. It has a
huge, collection of indigenous art and recorded ethnic music
tapes. It also highlights the native folk dances from different
regions of Mindanao, Sulu and Palawan. The native tools and
weapons used by the Muslims and different artistic designs of
houses are the main attractions of museum.
37. 37
Cultural Town of Tugaya
Location: Tugaya, Lanao del Sur
It has a near-exclusive reputation for producing brassware,
being the only community in the province that produces
excellent brassware. Practically every family has a bellows in
the area where the metals are smelted. Using the cire perdule
or lost wax technique, cannons and gongs, betelnut boxes and
rice pots are made.
38. 38
Torogans & Sambitory Old Building
Location: Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
The unique natural setting of the Maranaos in the city is
best manifested by the presence of the many large
torogans, the Maranao houses, characterized by an
antique royal high roof with curved designs.
39. 39
Moncado Colony
Location: Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
It was named in honor of Dr. Hilario Camino Del Prado
Moncado, who is best known as the founder and Supreme
Commander-in-Chief of the Filipino Crusaders World
Army. He is a leader, an organizer, author of books and
lecturer of humanities, a delegate to the 1935 Constitutional
Convention and a candidate for President of the Philippines
in 1941.
40. 40
Mindanao State University
Location: Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
Mindanao State University was established on September 1,
1961. Formal classes opened in June 1962. It has six autonomous
campuses throughout Mindanao.
Kilometer Zero Point Marker
Location: Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
It is an important landmark in Lanao del Sur, from which all
distances in Mindanao are measured. This is similar to the
measures of distances in Manila which begin at the Rizal
Monument in Rizal Park
41. 41
Lake Lanao
Location: Lanao del Sur
It is the largest lake in Mindanao, and the second largest lake in
the Philippines and counted as one of the 15 ancient lakes in the
world. It is also the deepest in the Philippines, at 2,300 feet
above sea level. The lake is home to 18 endemic species of
freshwater fish and supports a large number of waterfowl.
42. 42
Agus River
Location: Marawi City - Linamon, Lanao del Sur
It is considered as the swiftest river in the country. Its famous cataract
is the Maria Cristina Falls, outlet of Lake Lanao to Illana Bay. In
Maranao mythology, Lake Lanao once threatened to drown the people
of Sebangan with its ever-rising waters. The Archangel Gabriel is
thought to have made the Agus river in order to drain the lake.
Bagang Beach
Location: Caloocan, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
The beach is filled with rocks and boulders that serve as benches, and
trees in the lakeside that provide shade. It is ideal for picnics, and its
clear water makes it a good place for boating and swimming.
43. 43
Mt. Mupo (Sacred Mountain)
Location: Brgy. Papandayan and Guimba, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
It is proclaimed as one of the national park and protected area. The
forest area covers around 372.986 hectares. A variety of high value
timber trees such as narra, lawaan and tangile. It is known for its
untouched trees, beautifuland perfect cone.
Mt. Siningcaongan or Signal Hill
Location: Marawi City, Lanao del Sur
It is occupiedas the home of the military camp of the battalion
command of the Philippine Army. This small mountain is facing the
Provincial Capitol of Lanao del Sur and the panoramic view of Lake
Lanao .
45. 45
Place: Bacolod-Kalawi, Lanao del Sur,
Date: Two and a half months after the Eid’l Fitr
it is in commemoration of the Islam Revolution. It signifies
the progressive realization of Islamic principles and
teachings among believers.
46. 46
Location: Wao, Lanao Del Sur
Date: February 22
Kalilang and Kariyala both mean “merrymaking and
thanksgiving”. This universal expression of thanksgiving for
the triumphs, abundance, prosperity or any form of blessings
received. The celebration of this is festival are similar to
Lami- Lamihan of Lamitan, Basilan and Meguyaya of Upi,
Maguindanao.
47. 47
Location: Marawi City
Date: April 15
A festival commemorating the charter anniversary celebration
of Marawi City Highlights of the festival are Qur’an Reading
Contest, presentation of colorful Muslim songs and dances,
Islamic Quiz Bee, exhibits of Maranao crafts, native
delicacies, traditional games and musical instruments
competition.
49. 49
Maguindanao is a province of the Philippines located in
the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).
Its capital is Shariff Aguak. It borders Lanao del Sur to
the north, Cotabato to the east, and Sultan Kudarat to the
south.
Maguindanao means “people of the flood plain”. The
Maguindanao are most heavily concentrated along the
shores and in the flood lands of the Pulangi-Mindanao
River basin.
50. 50
Maguindanao is composed of 36 municipalities, which are
further subdivided into 506 barangays. Cotabato City is often
grouped with Maguindanao, but it is actually independent from
the province.
The province is divided into two congressional districts. In
October 2006, the first congressional district was split off into a
new province, Shariff Kabunsuan. However, the ARMM's Act
creating the province was nullified by the Supreme Court in July
2008, on the basis that creation of a province is a function of the
Philippine legislature. The area has since reverted to the province
of Maguindanao.
51. 51
By Air:
There are direct flights from Manila, Cebu, and Zamboanga
City that are bound for Cotabato City. Travel time ranges from
1 hour and 30 minutes (from Manila) to 25 minutes (from
Zamboanga)
By Sea:
Commercial ferries travel from Manila, Cebu, and Zamboanga
City towards Cotabato City once a week, docking at Polloc
Wharf. Travel time is two days from Manila.
53. 53
Takumi Butai Memorial Shrine
Location: San Sebastian Compound, Cotabato City
The monument is in honor of Takumi Butai and the Japanese
soldiers who died here during the second World War. Takumi
was the Provincial Commander of the Japanese forces
assigned in Cotabato City. Before he died, he requested that
some of his ashes be buried in Cotabato City.
54. 54
Kutawato Caves
Location: Tantawan Hill, Cotabato City
It got its name from the words “kuta” means fort and “wato”
means stone hence the name fort of stone. Kutawato caves with
its walls of white, beige and brownish shade, glitters in the dark
and echoes a colorful past dating back to the days when no
foreign foot yet trampled upon this island. These caves had given
sanctuary to the natives when the Spaniards tried to convert them
into the faith. It also served as garrison and armory for Filipino
guerillas who fought the invading force of the Japanese Imperial
Army during the Second World War.
55. 55
Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao Compound
Location: Gov. Gutierrez Avenue, Cotabato City
Considered as the symbol of the Bangsamoro’s struggle for
self-determination, the ARMM conducts governance in a 4-
hectare compound housing the Office of the Regional
Governor, Regional Legislative Assembly, Shariff Kabunsuan
Cultural Center, Regional Museum and Regional Offices,
including those of Region XII of which Cotabato City is a part
of. The buildings in the compound showcase unique blend of
modern and Muslim architecture.
56. 56
Cotabato City Hall
Location: Cotabato City
It is a century-old structure that houses almost all the city
government offices. It showcases a unique antique
architectural design depicting Muslim art.
Caverna Espanola
Location: Cotabato City
Twenty one flights of stairs and three unconnected winding
tunnels lead to cave bowels bearing a colonial-era Spanish
Dungeon turned World War II Japanese jail.
57. 57
Be astonished with the sacred spaces and beautiful
interiors of the Blue Mosque (Masjid), a place of worship
for the followers of Islam that will surely leave one in awe for
its marvelous architecture. Accentuated by its color, the
Mosque is a famous attraction and landmark in Parang that
lies along Narciso Highway.
If yearning for a great expedition, try mountaineering to
enjoy the wonderful vista on top of Mount Biarong that
overlooks the panoramic view of Upi municipality, known
as “the Little Baguio” of the Province.
Blue Mosque
58. 58
P.C. Hill / Tantawan Hill
Location: Cotabato City
This is a stone fort towering over the city with a height of 90 feet.
It houses the Cotabato City Internal Defense Command. This
historic hill served as a watch tower for the natives. It commands
a panoramic view of the city and Rio Grande de Mindanao.
Kweba ni Satur
Location: Tantawan Hill, Cotabato City
It is a former snake pit once thought to be the mouth of hell. One
has to descends via vine or rope or marches down a flight of stairs
to go inside the feared cave.
59. 59
Rio Grande de Mindanao
Location: Cotabato City
It is the second largest river in the Philippines and the
longest in Mindanao, crisscrossing with its tributaries the
city's vast area. It is estimated to be 182 kilometers long
and 96 meters wide. Water sports and boat racing are the
popular attractions of the river, usually held to coincide
with the Shariff Kabunsuan Festival and the Feast of
Hariraya Puasa.
60. 60
Timako Hill
Location: Cotabato City
The hill overlooks the Illana Bay. It is graced by the beach resorts of
Linik, Kushiong, and Tapian Point, characterized by blue waters and a
sandy white beach. Timako is an ideal site for camping, boating,
swimming, and fishing.
Bagua Cave
Location: San Vicente St., Cotabato City
The caverns filled with rock and mineral formations has been transformed
into stages for theatrical and musical performances. Spring water flows
into various pools that augment the ambiance during art and photo
exhibits, while the many hidden chambers support myths of treasures
hidden by the Japanese during World War II.
61. 61
Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto
Location: Brgy. Awang, Cotabato City
It is a replica of France's Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto. The site
has attracted many visitors, mostly devotees, believing that the
statue has been a source of miracles. The compoundboasts an
ideal retreat house for recollections and seminars, a mini zoo, and
a children's park.
Tamontaka Church
Location: Brgy. Tamontaka, Cotabato City
It was built in 1872 following Spanish architecture and design.
The oldest church in the city, it is a relic of the living past.
63. 63
Place: Cotabato City
Date: December 19
It is a colorful festival commemorating the arrival of Sharif
Muhammed Kabungsuwan via Rio Grande de Mindanao more
than 500 years ago to introduce Islam to the natives. The
festival is highlighted by a fluvial parade along Rio Grande de
Mindanao followed by the re-enactment of his arrival. Water
sports, boat racing, ethnic sports competition, cultural dances,
and a week-long trade fair, add color to the festival.
64. 64
Location: Upi, Maguindanao
Date: December 19
The term is a Teduray word meaning ‘Merrymaking and
Thanksgiving” This is a universal expression of
thanksgiving for the triumphs, abundance, prosperity or
any form of blessing received.
65. 65
Date: Every 2nd week of February
Sagayan is a Philippine war dance performed by both
the Maguindanao and Maranao depicting in dramatic fashion
the steps their hero, Prince Bantugan, took upon wearing
his armaments, the war he fought in and his subsequent
victory afterwards.
66. 66
Place: Cotabato City
Date: June 20
It commemorates the creation of Cotabato as a charter city.
The celebration is marked by cultural presentations, trade
exhibits, athletic competitions, and other events such as the
drum and bugle corps competition and "saranggolahan" (Kite
Festival). The highlight of the affair is the "Mutya ng
Kotabato" pageant on the eve of the foundation day.
68. 68
Far-flung Sulu is the southernmost part of the
Philippines, lying between the Sulu Sea on the north and
the Celebes Sea on the south. Although far, many tourist
travel here to see and experience the beauty of island
province.
69. 69
It composed of 19 municipalities and 410
barangays.
Although consisting of a mixed community
of Muslims, the Tausug dominate the Sulu
Archipelago. The Tausug were among the first
inhabitants of the Philippines to embrace Islam as a
religion and a way of life. They are referred to as
‘people of the current’, reflective of their close ties to
the sea.
70. 70
By Air:
Take a flight to Zamboanga City. From there, take a chartered
flight bound for Jolo, Sulu. Plane lands at Jolo Airport.
By Sea:
Commercial ferry boats travel to Zamboanga City. Travel time
from Manila to Zamboanga City is 29 hours, estimated. Ferry
boats at Zamboanga Port travel towards Sulu.
72. 72
American Calvary Monument
Location: Jolo, Sulu
Known as the Sunken Garden, this was built to thank the
American soldiers who fought for the people from Jolo.
Sulu Ethnological Museum
Location: Notre Dame of Jolo College, Jolo, Sulu
It is a private museum that has displays relating to the local
culture and to Jolo's early trade with Indonesia China and the
Arab world. Visitors can watch mat-weaving and purchase fine
handicrafts such as cloth, mats, and bags at NACIDA shop at
Notre Dame College.
73. 73
Walled City / Walls of Intramuros
Location: Jolo, Sulu
The wall measures at 8 ft. high 1-1/2 ft. thick and surrounds
the former Spanish garrison of Jolo. It served as a protection
against intermittent attacks by Moro sabil-illah
(Juramentados). It was constructed by the Spanish occupation
army soon after the fall of Jolo on February 29,1878, with
labor supplied by Filipino deportados who were prisoners of
the Spanish Army.
74. 74
Plaza Tulay Monument
Location: Brgy. Tulay, Jolo, Sulu
This monument was erected by Spanish Gov. Jose Arolas in
1891 to commemorate three occasions when Jolo was
occupied by Spanish forces. One side of the monument bears
the inscription “A la gloria de los que con su esfuerzo hicieron
esta tierra Espanola “; the second side bears the inscription”
Corcuera,17 de Abril de 1638”; the third side , “Urbiztondo,
28 de Febrero de 1851”; the fourth side, “Malcampo, 29 de
Febrero de 1876”.
75. 75
Poon Tao Kong Marker
Location: Jatin Tunggal, Indanan, Sulu
The marker remembers the contribution of Psi Hsien who
served as leader ambassador of goodwill of China. He
died in 1408 and was given the name Poon Tao Kong,
the Celestial. He was a Muslim Chinese Emperor to send
Moslem emissaries or tribute collectors to Moslem
countries.
76. 76
Fort of the Princess of Asturias
Location: Jolo, Sulu
Built by the Spaniards, this building was dedicated to the Princess of
Spain. When Spanish forces left Jolo in 1899, the Americans made this
military headquarters of the Philippines scout then later the Constabulary
up to 1942. When Japanese Imperial Forces occupied Jolo the basement of
this building served as the dungeon where Filipinos were tortured in 1945.
Sulu Provincial Capitol
Location: Jolo, Sulul
It was constructed during the administration of Governor Murphy
Sangkula. Its Moorish-inspired architectural design makes it a must-see
site.
CAPITOL
77. 77
Tubbataha Reef
Location: Sulu Sea
It draws divers from all over the world with its
underwater splendor and the rich marine life that
abounds in the reef. Snappers, sweet lips, groupers,
angel fish, and morays can be found, amid huge fan
corals and sponges. Large schools of barracudas, jacks,
rainbow runners, and surgeons pass by while tunas race
about.
78. 78
Pearl Farm at Marungas Island
Location: Marungas Island, Jolo, Sulu
The island, located in Sulu Sea, is dotted with coral reefs
and can provide probably some of the world's best dive
spots for those seeking the ultimate in underwater beauty
and adventure.
Dubbed as the “Mother of Pearls”, Sulu pearls were
considered as the finest in the world, found in high-bred
shells in deep, clear, and rapid tidal waters.
79. 79
Maubo Beach
Location: Patikul, Sulu
It boasts of about one kilometer of white sand, and is
most frequented by the residents due to its accessibility.
Tanjung Beach
Location: Indanan, Sulu
It is a white sand beach situated just three kilometers
away from the town proper.
81. 81
Place: Jolo, Sulu
Date: 2nd Week of August
A three-day cultural show and festivites
commemorating the arrival of Rajah Baguinda who was
responsible for the spread of Islam and reinforcing the
Sultanate Government in the Sulu Archipelago.THE FESTIVAL
The shrine
83. 83
It is the southernmost province of the country,
sharing sea borders with the Malaysian state
of Sabah and the Indonesian North Kalimantan province,
both on the island of Borneo to the west. To the
northeast lies the province of Sulu.
It is a cluster of 106 islands and islets scattered over
Sulu and Celebes sea.
It consist of 11 municipalities and 203 barangays.
84. 84
The name of Tawi-Tawi is a projection of
the Malay word "jauh" meaning "far“. Prehistoric travelers
from the Asian mainland would repeat the word as "jaui-
jaui" to mean "far away" because of the distance of the
islands from the mainland. The word "Tawi-Tawi" was
picked up to later become the official name of the province.
The people make their living mostly from the sea.
Many of them live in house-boats, and more live in houses
built over the water and connected by little bridges.
85. 85
By Air:
Take a flight to Zamboanga City. From there, take a chartered
flight bound for Tawi-Tawi. Plane lands at Sanga-Sanga Airport.
Currently, only one airline company flies to Tawi-Tawi.
By Sea:
Commercial ferry boats travel to Zamboanga City. Travel time
from Manila to Zamboanga City is 29 hours, estimated. Ferry
boats at Zamboanga Port travel towards Bongao Commercial Port.
87. 87
Badjao Vilage
Location: Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
One can visit the Badjao Village to see their lifestyle and the
intricate art of weaving, which the Badjaos are known for.
Sitangkai
Location: Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
Eye-catching Sitangkai is considered the "Venice of Tawi-
Tawi" for its houses built on stilts above water. It is also the
site for one of the few floating markets left in Asia, although
it remains one of the liveliest.
SITANGKAI
88. 88
Makhdum Memorial
Location: Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi
Legend has it that Arab Missionary Sheik Makdum,who
constructed the Mosque in Tubig Indangan,was a powerful
imam who could lift 3-foot diameter pillars. His remains are
allegedly buried in two separate islands one of which is
Simmunul the other,Tandubanak on the southern shore of
Sibutu.
89. 89
Gusong Reef
Location: Mapun (Cagayan de Tawi-Tawi), Tawi-Tawi
Seagulls, known to the natives as "tallah-tallah," have settled here by
the thousands to lay their eggs. Gusong Reef is a top producer of the
delicious turtle eggs, ranking second only to the Turtle Islands.
Bongao Peak
Location: Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
Dominating with a prominent vertical cliff on its north side,Bongao
peak towers above the island,welcoming tourists. The peak is a
protected monkey sanctuary in the capital town of Bongao. A natural
watchtower provides a view of the expanse of sea and the string of
islands of Tawi-tawi
90. 90
Manuk-Mangkaw Island / Musa
Location: Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
It is an island located slightly beyond and across the channel. It is
said to be "floating like an umbrella“, under which submarines of
the Allied Forces sought refuge from enemy depth charges during
World War II. Manuk-Mangkaw derives its name from a cluster
of branches atop an ancient tall tree forming the image of a hen
about to walk. It was used as a landmark by seafarers who
jestingly called upon the "hen" to take the first inevitable step -
" manok mankaw," meaning "walk, then walk."
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Tahing-Tahing Beach
Location: Tabawan, South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi
With its crystal clear waters, it forms a natural swimming pool. A
picnic haven, it is where a group of American soldiers were
inspired to compose the song, "Tawi- Tawi Beach."
Turtle Islands
Location: Turtle Island, Tawi-Tawi
The Turtle Islands,together with three islands of neighboring
country Malaysia, and the surrounding coral waters, are the only
living area of the Green Sea Turtles in Asia and in the whole
world.
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Tubig Indangan
Location: Simunul, Tawi-Tawi
On this location stands the first Muslim mosque built by the
Arabian missionary Sheik Makdum in 1380 A.D. It is a
pilgrimage site for Filipino Muslims.
Tandubanak Mosque
Location: Sibutu, Tawi-Tawi
It is the biggest mosque in Sibutu is the one in Tandubanak.
Sporting a pink and green motif,it stands proudly along the
narrow and singular road that bisects the island.
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Place: Tawi-Tawi Province
Date: September 24 - 27
The festival commemorates the foundation anniversary of the
province. Highlight of the event include cultural presentation
that showcases the colorful ethnic cultures of the Sama, Badjaos,
Jama Mapuns and Tausugs, fluvial parades marine sports like
the Paglomba-lomba ma Tahik Tawi-Tawi, a boat racing
competition, and beauty pageant.
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Location: Bongao, Tawi-Tawi
Date: September 25
This Festival is also called Agal- agal Festival (local name for
carrageen seaweed), Thanks
giving festivity for its good harvest (similar to Meguyaya).
This week-long festivity is celebrated every forth week of
September showcasing the region’s economic potentials,
culture, costums and tradition
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Location: Simunul, Tawi-Tawi
Date: November 07
Sheik Karimul Makhdum Festival is celebrated in
commemoration for his good deeds for bringing Islam to the
land. Sheik Karimul Makhdum is a 13th century Muslim
missionary from Malaysia who established the first mosque
in the Philippines; the mosque is located in Tubig Indangan,
Simunul, Tawi-Tawi.
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The ARMM Region is famous in rice
delicacies, namely; duldul, pastil, katilapan,
and pawa.
Native dishes like chicken with
currypowder. In addition of the muslim
delicacies are putrid, sinigang na baka and
tinadtag.
It is the only predominantly Muslim province that is governed primarily by its indigenous population, and whose most commonly spoken language is Zamboangueño Chavacano.
If you wish to experience a different delight while traveling.. A sea voyage is also highly recommended.