[Travel] Bongao, Tawi-Tawi

Note: I went to Tawi-Tawi last April 2014. I wasn't able to publish this article right away.

Seeking for great adventure? Want to see clear water beaches? Or you want to eat seafood fresh from its environment?

It might be the time for you to explore the wonders of the Province of Tawi-Tawi. Found in the farthest south west of the Philippines, Tawi-Tawi is a gateway to a neighbouring country, Malaysia.

I had a chance to go to Tawi-Tawi last April. Tawi-Tawi can be access through airplane. Cebu Pacific offers airline seat to Sanga-Sanga Airport in the Municipality of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi from Zamboanga Airport.

At first, there is a great doubt in going there because of the news stories of kidnapping and war in this side of the country.

Tawi-Tawi, as part of Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao is not a warzone. The province maintains it peace and order situation.

Bongao's Sunset


Crabs Served for Breakfast

As we arrived in Sanga-Sanga Airport, we took a tricycle ride to Sandbar Lepa Beach Resort. The transportation cost from the airport to Sandbar Lepa Beach Resort is 150php. Considering the distance is quite near, locals consider that as cheap because the price of diesel fuel in the province cost around 70php per liter.


Sandbar Lepa Restauant


Tawi-Tawi Beach

The Sandbar Lepa Beach Resort has nice, quiet ambiance. The resort features their amazing landscape. They’ve a restaurant building situated on the beach waters. They got an events hall and cottages that are architect to its Muslim culture. Accommodation here costs 1,500 per night that includes air-conditioned rooms, a double bed, cable TV, mini refrigerator, water and water dispenser. A local also said that the cast of Thy Womb, a Filipino indie film which includes Nora Aunor, Lovi Poe and etc., stayed here during their shoot.

We were lucky to approach someone from the tourism office of Tawi-Tawi. I’ve asked Ms. Evelyn for some tourist spots in Tawi-Tawi. She suggested that to treck Bud Bungao, the highest peak of the island where you can find the oldest mosque.


Bud Bungao's View from the Resort

Bud Bungao is a two-hour slow trek from its foot to peak. Along the way, you can encounter monkeys. It’s better bring bananas to feed these monkeys and to avoid these monkeys from stealing your things. It is also convenient to water to avoid dehydration. At the peak you’ll witness the beautiful view overlooking the island of Tawi-Tawi.

The greatest experience you will encounter is the uniquely Tawi-Tawi’s hospitable approach to tourist.