7 Places to Visit in Tawi-Tawi

7 Places to Visit in Tawi-Tawi

The Mindanao province is quickly becoming a favorite option for travelers in search of a place teeming with cultural wonders and unforgettable sights.
by Marky Ramone Go | October 10, 2017

As the southernmost province in the Philippines, Tawi-Tawi boasts of a number of destinations still considered to belong along the off-the-beaten path. Home to diversity and a colorful culture that has flourished and preserved for hundreds of years, visitors to this province are sure to be gifted with a memorable experience. Previously overlooked and unreasonably associated with security concerns, Tawi-Tawi is quickly becoming a favorite option for travelers in search of a place teeming with cultural wonders and unforgettable sights. To the lucky and adventurous traveler willing to explore Tawi-Tawi, here are just some of the many places worth visiting.

Panampangan Island

An hour away from Bongao by a fast boat, one arrives at probably one of the most stunning islands in the country, Panampangan Island. It’s believed to have the longest sandbar in the Philippines. According to environment and mapping advocate Ervin Malicdem “during low tide, the sandbar extends far out to about three kilometers to its neighboring islet, Basibuli; also in the same reef.”

Lush greens composed of towering coconut trees occupy a large section of the island. These provide adequate shade, while the rest of the island is composed of a picturesque snaking sandbar framed by the crystal clear waters of Celebes Sea. A day trip here screams of nothing but a fantastic experience.