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The Zamboanga Peninsula is a culturally rich and geographically diverse region in western Mindanao, presenting a vibrant fusion of history, natural beauty, colonial legacy, and local traditions, making it one of the most underrated yet rewarding travel destinations in the Philippines.
| One of the houses at the Rizal Shrine, where Dr. José P. Rizal spent four years during his exile |
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Photography: Ric Canizares Source: Wikimedia Commons
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Officially designated as Region IX, the peninsula initially consisted of just three provinces: Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay. On July 30, 2025, however, the province of Sulu was officially integrated into the region, following a Supreme Court decision in September 2024 that excluded Sulu from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
A journey across the peninsula typically starts in Zamboanga City, which serves as the cultural and economic center of the region, a bustling urban hub where Spanish, Muslim, and indigenous influences converge seamlessly in its architecture, cuisine, and language.
Below is a compilation of attractions and activities to explore, from Zamboanga City to each of the four provinces.
Zamboanga City
- Grande Santa Cruz Island: Just a short boat ride from the city, this island is renowned for its distinctive pink sand beach. The rosy hue is a result of pulverized red organ-pipe coral mixed with white sand. It was even recognized by National Geographic as one of the best beaches in the world in 2017. Visitors are advised to make reservations through the Protected Area Management Office.
- Once Islas (Bisaya Island): This cluster of 11 islands off the coast of Zamboanga City offers stunning landscapes and opportunities for snorkeling. Once Islas is located near Panubigan, featuring notable islets like Bisaya-Bisaya.
- Merloquet Falls: Located outside the city center, these multi-tiered cascading waterfalls are enveloped by lush forests. A hike is necessary to reach these beautiful falls.
- Pasonanca Natural Park: This nature park and bird sanctuary is home to endangered bird species. The park also includes a butterfly garden, swimming pools, and a street food area.
- Fort Pilar Shrine: This 17th-century military defense fortress was built by the Spanish to protect the city against pirate attacks. Today, it serves as a regional museum under the National Museum of the Philippines and as a Marian shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar, the city’s patroness.
- Canelar Barter Trade Center: A favored shopping hub where visitors can discover a variety of products, particularly textiles and crafts, sourced from nearby Malaysia and Indonesia.
- Yakan Weaving Village: This village highlights the weaving heritage of the indigenous Yakan people, who are celebrated for their exquisite handwoven fabrics. Besides textiles, visitors can find bags, purses, and various other accessories.
- Taluksangay Mosque: An ancient mosque established in 1885 in the coastal village of Taluksangay, recognized as one of the oldest in Western Mindanao.
- Paseo del Mar: A picturesque seaside park and esplanade where guests can unwind and enjoy the sunset views.
- Plaza Pershing: Among the city’s oldest plazas, this park serves as a venue for festivals and various public gatherings.
- San Jose Cawa-cawa: A unique Muslim village constructed on stilts above the water.
- Hermosa Festival: Also referred to as Fiesta Pilar, this month-long annual event in October celebrates the city’s patroness, Our Lady of the Pillar. The festival is known for its colorful street dances, the regatta, and a variety of cultural performances.
Zamboanga del Norte
- Rizal Shrine: This historical site marks the location where national hero José Rizal was exiled by Spanish colonial authorities from 1892 to 1896. Visitors can explore the preserved grounds where he lived, educated students, and practiced medicine. The protected area, overseen by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), was designated as a national park in 1940.
- Dapitan City Plaza: Considered a historical treasure, this plaza is where Rizal first arrived in Dapitan during his exile. It is conveniently located near the city hall and St. James the Greater Parish.
- St. James the Greater Parish: An ancient Catholic church in Dapitan, where José Rizal regularly attended mass during his time in exile.
- Ilihan Hill: This hill provides a scenic view of Dapitan and a glimpse into its history, as it once housed a Spanish fortress.
- Dakak Park and Beach Resort: A top-tier beach resort in Dapitan, featuring a 750-meter stretch of private white-sand beach and a variety of activities. The resort includes a wooded area that acts as a natural habitat for local flora and fauna.
- Dakak Park and Beach Resort: A premier beach resort in Dapitan, featuring a 750-meter stretch of private white-sand beach and a variety of activities. The resort includes a wooded area that serves as a natural habitat for local flora and fauna.
- MTR Adventure Park: Located within Dakak Park and Beach Resort, this area offers extreme sports and adventures such as airsoft, rock climbing, and a 1,364-meter zipline.
- Dipolog Sunset Boulevard: Enjoy stunning sunset views and a relaxing stroll along this pier and boardwalk in Dipolog City. The boulevard also hosts a range of events and activities.
- Godod’s Falls: Located in the municipality of Godod, this area features several waterfalls, including Añog and Busyawan Falls. Añog is a wildlife sanctuary within a virgin forest, while Busyawan offers a more challenging trek.
- Hudyaka ZaNorte: A week-long cultural festival and celebration of the founding anniversary held every June 6 in Zamboanga del Norte. It brings together cities and towns from the province, showcasing various cultural activities.
- Dapitan River Cruise: Immerse yourself in the local culture and breathtaking scenery with a delightful cruise along the Dapitan River. The journey begins at just ₱500 per person, requiring a minimum of four passengers.
Zamboanga del Sur
- Dao-Dao Islands: Located off the coast of Pagadian City, this group of small islands can be reached via a short motorboat ride from the seaport.
- Dao-Dao Dako: The larger island, featuring powdery white-sand beaches, mangrove forests, and artificial coral reefs made from old tires.
- Dao-Dao Gamay: A smaller island or sandbar that is partially submerged during high tide. It is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and boating.
- Rotonda Park: A prominent park in Pagadian that provides views of the city.
- Manga Falls: A natural waterfall attraction.
- Puting Balas Sandbar: A sandbar destination for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
- Water Park Pagadian City: Located on Boulevard Santiago, this attraction features water-based rides and activities.
- Wood Lake: The largest lake in the province, situated at the foot of Mt. Serongan in the municipality of Lakewood. The Subanen people, an indigenous group, traditionally refer to the lake as "Danao". It offers activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking in the nearby forest.
- Dulian Falls: Located in Zamboanga, this picturesque waterfall cascades down rock formations amidst lush greenery. Visitors can swim in the pool at the base of the falls or hike to the top for a panoramic view.
- Mount Malindang: This natural park covers parts of Zamboanga del Sur and is a sanctuary of biodiversity with forests, waterfalls, and mountain peaks.
- High Land Mount Tarorot: A mountain in San Miguel offering scenic views from its summit.
- Lake Dasay: A lake in the municipality of San Miguel.
- Madanguit Cave: A cave system located in San Miguel.
- Megayon Festival: An annual week-long festival organized by the provincial government that highlights the culture and traditions of Zamboanga del Sur’s municipalities.
Zamboanga Sibugay
- Buluan Island: A popular destination known for its white-sand beach and clear waters. This island is part of a marine protected area and is located about 7 kilometers from the port of Ipil.
- Olutanga: Formerly a pirate’s hiding spot, this large island is now being developed for tourism. It features an 89-kilometer coastline with many attractions:
- Pulo Mabaw: An islet with shallow water.
- Pulo Lawom: An islet with deep water.
- Snake Island: An area where sea snakes can be found.
- Pandilusan Island: Another island destination near Olutanga.
- Bayangan Island: An island resort area that draws visitors with its beauty and serene environment.
- Kabug Mangrove Park and Wetlands: A rich biodiversity ecopark that offers a chance to experience nature and wildlife.
- Malangas Boulevard: A scenic coastal road perfect for a relaxing stroll with views of the bay.
- Tagbilat Falls: This impressive waterfall in the middle of a lush forest requires a 30-minute trek to reach. It looks like a huge curtain of water cascading down and is a rising ecotourism spot.
- Nancy Falls: Another beautiful waterfall destination in the province.
- Kendis Cave: A cave system to explore, known for its unique rock formations and the thousands of bats dwelling within.
- Victoria Pader Cave: A cave system found on Olutanga Island.
- Ipil Rotunda Obelisk: This obelisk serves as a landmark in the provincial capital of Ipil.
- Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Capitol: The seat of the provincial government, located in Ipil, is also a notable point of interest.
- Lantawan Eco-Park: This eco-park offers serene and tranquil views of Lake Mainit.
Sulu
The culinary offerings of the Zamboanga Peninsula is a flavorful melting pot, influenced by its Spanish colonial past, indigenous Tausug traditions, and its proximity to Malaysia and Indonesia. Seafood is a staple, yet the region also offers a diverse range of dishes that are sweet, savory, and spicy.
Among its signature dishes are Curacha con Salsa Alavar, arguably the region’s most famous dish, which features a unique hybrid of a crab and lobster known locally as curacha; and Satti, a flavorful street-food favorite that consists of skewered, grilled pieces of marinated meat, typically beef or chicken, served with puso (rice cubes wrapped in leaves).
Travelers visiting the peninsula will find a variety of lodging options, ranging from luxury beach resorts to budget-friendly city hotels. The main city of Zamboanga offers a wide selection, while other locations like Dapitan and the resorts on Olutanga Island cater to specific travel preferences.
If your passions lie in exploring colonial history, hiking through lush trails, and diving into the wonders of marine life, Zamboanga offers a destination that promises enriching experiences for the curious traveler.
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