Basilan is a place popular for its notoriety. Definitely not as a tourist destination.
But what most people don’t know is that Basilan is a paradise amid turmoil.
“True, there’s disorder here, but isn’t it the same with any other place?” Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) First Lady and Anak-Mindanao nominee Princess Sitti Djaliah Hataman says.
The island boasts of beautiful and unspoiled beaches like the White Beach of Malamawi Island in Isabela. “We are happy, tourism is alive especially summer,” Hataman says.
The pristine sand and sea is so enticing that tourists will surely find it irresistible to submerge to the calm water.
Another scenic beach in Basilan is the Hami Beach of Baluno in Isabela. Hami Beach is an awesome picturesque beach that is worth visiting in the island.
Besides its beaches, Basilan takes pride in its historical landmarks: Datu Kalun Shrine and Museo ng Lamitan in Lamitan, one of ARMM’s fastest growing cities.
Lamitan First Lady Rose Furigay says the city is predominantly composed of Chabacano speaking tribes. If elected, she will improve, develop and promote existing tourist spots.
A trip to Basilan of Lamitan will not be complete without a peek at Bullingan Falls.
Tourists can eat in the cottages and bathe in the Falls.
Furigay says that the city government is working to develop the tourist spot while maintaining its natural beauty and the flora and fauna surrounding it.
A couple of miles away from Lamitan is Basilan’s capital, Isabela City.
Situated in Isabela City are some of Basilan’s historical sites: Basilan Provincial Capitol and the Isabela City Plaza.
Isabela is a city on the rise, thriving amidst the adversities. The presence of Jollibee, is a sign that the city has developed.
A beautiful yet affordable place to stay in Isabela is Anchong Tan’s residence which provides a panoramic view of the city. In addition, the place also serves the best and freshest seafood that the city has to offer.
“Cost of living was less than a fifth compared to Metro,” Princess Hataman says.
With all the undesirable news surrounding Mindanao, it might come as a surprise to know that a visit to Basilan would actually be a peaceful experience that allows tourists to recharge and be rejuvenated.
Basilan, in a few years’ time, hopes to turn things around in terms of how people perceive Mindanao by showing that in the middle of the chaos is a paradise waiting to be noticed and explored.