The Yakan Weaving Center in Zamboanga City

I have been in and out of Zamboanga, but with every travel, I am mostly interested with natural attractions and leaving all others on my time bussing.

There is no real destination in this trip other than there is a flight available, and took it. Today, the plan was actually to revisit malamawi beach in Basilan, but as we woke up late to make it to the last trip to Basilan, we decided to go around town.

In brgy Caliraan in Zamboanga city, a community of relatives from the Yakan tribe of Basilan has kept the culture of weaving. If not today, I would have not known that apart from the Tausugs, and Badjao, another set of Muslim tribe is around (in the BaSulTa area) . Their language is different, for one.

The center is no more than a residential compound with a frontyard display of the by-products they make out of the weaving; There are also other products on display traditionally from the yakan tribes of Basilan (as well as other products from other tribes and places such as the pisyabit of the Tausugs, and traditional mats made by the badjaos).

To get to the weaving center:

From Zamboanga Town Center Public Market, take the jeepneys bound for Upper Caliraan; Ask to be dropped in the weaving center. Fare as of posting (July 2015) is P10/head.

Yakan Woven Clutch Wallets

Yakan Woven Eco Bags

22" Kris Sword

Go to the Shop to purchase these products online.

I have been in and out of Zamboanga, but with every travel, I am mostly interested with natural attractions and leaving all others on my time bussing.

There is no real destination in this trip other than there is a flight available, and took it. Today, the plan was actually to revisit malamawi beach in Basilan, but as we woke up late to make it to the last trip to Basilan, we decided to go around town.

In brgy Caliraan in Zamboanga city, a community of relatives from the Yakan tribe of Basilan has kept the culture of weaving. If not today, I would have not known that apart from the Tausugs, and Badjao, another set of Muslim tribe is around (in the BaSulTa area) . Their language is different, for one.

The center is no more than a residential compound with a frontyard display of the by-products they make out of the weaving; There are also other products on display traditionally from the yakan tribes of Basilan (as well as other products from other tribes and places such as the pisyabit of the Tausugs, and traditional mats made by the badjaos).

To get to the weaving center:

From Zamboanga Town Center Public Market, take the jeepneys bound for Upper Caliraan; Ask to be dropped in the weaving center. Fare as of posting (July 2015) is P10/head.

Yakan Woven Clutch Wallets

Yakan Woven Eco Bags

22" Kris Sword

Go to the Shop to purchase these products online.

Read More »

Getting to Buluan Marine Sanctuary in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay

Perhaps the only (open) tourist destination of the 79^th (by chronology of creation) province of Zamboanga Sibugay.

Currently, there is no airport service in the province though a runway is in place in Ipil, the provincial capitol; the nearest commercial airport being Zamboanga City (2-3 hours). From the city, you can take a bus (P210) or van (P200) from the Guiwan Terminal. If coming from Zamboanga, ask the driver to drop you off in Buluan/Surabay. From there, you can either wait and flag a tricycle to the jump off,or just do a 15 minute walk to the shore. If you are coming from Dipolog or Pagadian and want to head straight to the island, you may get a Zamboanga bound bus, ask the driver to do the same. Fare for Pagadian to Ipil is +/- P160 or Van, P150 or P200 for Express Services (New White Nissan Vans in the Integrated Terminal in Pagadian.)

From the jump off point, there is a boat that services the island for P50 per pax return, though the boat don’t move until filled with minimum 10 passengers. We were able to haggle a loop of the island inclusive for the P500 fare since there is only 2 of us.

There are masks and snorkel for rent in the island for P100 per set. There is no designated price for the snorkelling guide; we gave an additional P100 on top of the gear rentals for the 1 hour snorkelling.

During snorkelling, we were brought to a few giant clams and spotted a small turtle. The sanctuary is as abundant, though not as enormous as the coral gardens in Anilao, Batangas. Our guide said there is another area where they have about 100 giant clams.

Back when we were in town, when we were asking for instructions on how to get to the island, we were told to stay away from the place as it is a muslim area. Informant adds that they themselves who are locals don’t intend to go there. Don’t mind such reports... it’s but normal. Then again, remain courteous and humble so not to trigger any trouble.

There is 1 sari sari store in the island selling coffee and instants and coconuts. Nevertheless, rather bring your own water.

And we spotted a turtle too :-)

Contacts:

Trike Service Ipil/Buluan – Roberto Saison 0905 143 6341

Boat Service – Rosalie 0936 528 1923

For nearby destionations, check out Aliguay island in Dipolog, or Merloquet Falls in Vitali, Zamboanga City, or 11 Islands in Dita, Zamboanga City. 

Perhaps the only (open) tourist destination of the 79^th (by chronology of creation) province of Zamboanga Sibugay.

Currently, there is no airport service in the province though a runway is in place in Ipil, the provincial capitol; the nearest commercial airport being Zamboanga City (2-3 hours). From the city, you can take a bus (P210) or van (P200) from the Guiwan Terminal. If coming from Zamboanga, ask the driver to drop you off in Buluan/Surabay. From there, you can either wait and flag a tricycle to the jump off,or just do a 15 minute walk to the shore. If you are coming from Dipolog or Pagadian and want to head straight to the island, you may get a Zamboanga bound bus, ask the driver to do the same. Fare for Pagadian to Ipil is +/- P160 or Van, P150 or P200 for Express Services (New White Nissan Vans in the Integrated Terminal in Pagadian.)

From the jump off point, there is a boat that services the island for P50 per pax return, though the boat don’t move until filled with minimum 10 passengers. We were able to haggle a loop of the island inclusive for the P500 fare since there is only 2 of us.

There are masks and snorkel for rent in the island for P100 per set. There is no designated price for the snorkelling guide; we gave an additional P100 on top of the gear rentals for the 1 hour snorkelling.

During snorkelling, we were brought to a few giant clams and spotted a small turtle. The sanctuary is as abundant, though not as enormous as the coral gardens in Anilao, Batangas. Our guide said there is another area where they have about 100 giant clams.

Back when we were in town, when we were asking for instructions on how to get to the island, we were told to stay away from the place as it is a muslim area. Informant adds that they themselves who are locals don’t intend to go there. Don’t mind such reports... it’s but normal. Then again, remain courteous and humble so not to trigger any trouble.

There is 1 sari sari store in the island selling coffee and instants and coconuts. Nevertheless, rather bring your own water.

And we spotted a turtle too :-)

Contacts:

Trike Service Ipil/Buluan – Roberto Saison 0905 143 6341

Boat Service – Rosalie 0936 528 1923

For nearby destionations, check out Aliguay island in Dipolog, or Merloquet Falls in Vitali, Zamboanga City, or 11 Islands in Dita, Zamboanga City. 

Read More »

My best experiences and destinations of Mindanao

Amongst my favorite destinations in the country, Mindanao has a good share in my list, and it is sad that some people are pre-empted with fear when pointed to this direction. Yet, it is this same fear that made me excited about Mindanao and with less crowd, it opens up to more experience with that pure genuine hospitality of people.

I once told myself, and immediately posted in facebook, that, at this point in travelling, it is no longer the destination, but the experience that comes with getting and being where you want. And this neglected part of the country sure offers a lot more for the keen traveller.

1. Swimming and underwater shots of Enchanted River, in Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur. 

With pictures online, it is not hard to get excited about seeing this river. The deep blue shade of the water, coming to think that it is a river. As some pictures are heavily edited, I thought it will be as great to see even counting off assumed enhancements on the picture. To my surprise though, it was even bluer in person. 

2. The ride to Asik Asik Falls in Alamada, North Cotabato.

I knew it will not be easy getting to this falls, but never expected the ride to be that slippery and hard. None in regrets, but all was fun. 

3. Being at Awe at the strength of Maria Christina Falls in Iligan, Lanao del Norte.

Visiting this place on a weekend, and almost closing, with me being the last and only guest in the vicinity's cart, one word i uttered as I saw the falls - a big blind unexpected WOW! 

4. The atmosphere of Camiguin. 

No traffic, cool and shady weather, bountry of fruits, humble people - countryside living at its finest.

5. Staring at the tall and (feeling so small) Sugpalon Falls in Jasaan, Misamis Occidental and driving a boat in Agutayan island.

A not so popular destination in Misamis compared to the crowd that flocks to CDO, yet, a bare 45 minute jeep ride from the city gets you to a small beautiful island and a neck breaking tall waterfalls. 

6. Tawi Tawi, The climb to Bod Bongao and the Culture of the Tausug.

I've been with trekkers bringing their 4 year old or so baby along with them on the trail, but not village people hiking with their newborns on a cloth tied around their bodies. It is a practice for locals for good omen to their life and kids. 

Meantime, I have gotten curious about this town having noticed a unique culture, from language, food, living and fellowship.

And, how can I forget, a bridge (between Sanga and Bongao) with white sand and blue water underneath.

7. The feared and yet silent beauty of 11 islands in Brgy Dita, Zamboanga City.

I have been warned several times both by LGU, locals, and even online about this destination as a safe for extremist rebels, but still pushed on going here. On my arrival, as usual, no apparent reason to fear. It is a solid muslim community, yes, and just like what I observe, people are equally, if not more, behaved than the rest of the country. I asked locals around, and yes, they confirmed that a lot of the MORO fighters during Marcos time came from their village, but that was then. 

8. Meeting a newfound family in Merloquet Falls in Zamboanga City.

From rather just looking for a place to nap while waiting for a travel buddy, my usual "do you have hot water" random conversations with locals ended up having just like a family in this remote corner of Zamboanga city.

9. Waters, Sand, and Reef in Pinagasinan, Sulu.

Having almost half day left (6 hours) and nothing more to do in Jolo, and while waiting for the trip back to zamboanga, i walked into the port, and sought any fishing boat to get me to an appealing island off the port. In about 1 hour, we reached Pinagasinan Sulu, and amazed with the crystal clear and jade-ish color of the water.

10. Watching turtles lay eggs in Panikian Island, Pitogo, Zamboanga del sur.

Thanks to the Pitogo Municipality who upon my insisting on visiting the island, allowed me to camp overnight in the island with hospitable armed escorts who showed me around the islands. I was already almost drunk when they insisted on me standing up and walk around the island to see the turtles. Each Turtle took 1 hour to release more than 100 eggs each, and witnessing all that happen was... nowhere else.

There's a lot more, and certainly Mindanao will always be a place for me to explore..


Looking to travelling to this destination? Talk to me and we'll let's talk about your accomodation, transpo, and tour options

Amongst my favorite destinations in the country, Mindanao has a good share in my list, and it is sad that some people are pre-empted with fear when pointed to this direction. Yet, it is this same fear that made me excited about Mindanao and with less crowd, it opens up to more experience with that pure genuine hospitality of people.

I once told myself, and immediately posted in facebook, that, at this point in travelling, it is no longer the destination, but the experience that comes with getting and being where you want. And this neglected part of the country sure offers a lot more for the keen traveller.

1. Swimming and underwater shots of Enchanted River, in Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur. 

With pictures online, it is not hard to get excited about seeing this river. The deep blue shade of the water, coming to think that it is a river. As some pictures are heavily edited, I thought it will be as great to see even counting off assumed enhancements on the picture. To my surprise though, it was even bluer in person. 

2. The ride to Asik Asik Falls in Alamada, North Cotabato.

I knew it will not be easy getting to this falls, but never expected the ride to be that slippery and hard. None in regrets, but all was fun. 

3. Being at Awe at the strength of Maria Christina Falls in Iligan, Lanao del Norte.

Visiting this place on a weekend, and almost closing, with me being the last and only guest in the vicinity's cart, one word i uttered as I saw the falls - a big blind unexpected WOW! 

4. The atmosphere of Camiguin. 

No traffic, cool and shady weather, bountry of fruits, humble people - countryside living at its finest.

5. Staring at the tall and (feeling so small) Sugpalon Falls in Jasaan, Misamis Occidental and driving a boat in Agutayan island.

A not so popular destination in Misamis compared to the crowd that flocks to CDO, yet, a bare 45 minute jeep ride from the city gets you to a small beautiful island and a neck breaking tall waterfalls. 

6. Tawi Tawi, The climb to Bod Bongao and the Culture of the Tausug.

I've been with trekkers bringing their 4 year old or so baby along with them on the trail, but not village people hiking with their newborns on a cloth tied around their bodies. It is a practice for locals for good omen to their life and kids. 

Meantime, I have gotten curious about this town having noticed a unique culture, from language, food, living and fellowship.

And, how can I forget, a bridge (between Sanga and Bongao) with white sand and blue water underneath.

7. The feared and yet silent beauty of 11 islands in Brgy Dita, Zamboanga City.

I have been warned several times both by LGU, locals, and even online about this destination as a safe for extremist rebels, but still pushed on going here. On my arrival, as usual, no apparent reason to fear. It is a solid muslim community, yes, and just like what I observe, people are equally, if not more, behaved than the rest of the country. I asked locals around, and yes, they confirmed that a lot of the MORO fighters during Marcos time came from their village, but that was then. 

8. Meeting a newfound family in Merloquet Falls in Zamboanga City.

From rather just looking for a place to nap while waiting for a travel buddy, my usual "do you have hot water" random conversations with locals ended up having just like a family in this remote corner of Zamboanga city.

9. Waters, Sand, and Reef in Pinagasinan, Sulu.

Having almost half day left (6 hours) and nothing more to do in Jolo, and while waiting for the trip back to zamboanga, i walked into the port, and sought any fishing boat to get me to an appealing island off the port. In about 1 hour, we reached Pinagasinan Sulu, and amazed with the crystal clear and jade-ish color of the water.

10. Watching turtles lay eggs in Panikian Island, Pitogo, Zamboanga del sur.

Thanks to the Pitogo Municipality who upon my insisting on visiting the island, allowed me to camp overnight in the island with hospitable armed escorts who showed me around the islands. I was already almost drunk when they insisted on me standing up and walk around the island to see the turtles. Each Turtle took 1 hour to release more than 100 eggs each, and witnessing all that happen was... nowhere else.

There's a lot more, and certainly Mindanao will always be a place for me to explore..


Looking to travelling to this destination? Talk to me and we'll let's talk about your accomodation, transpo, and tour options

Read More »