The longest sandbar in the Philippines - Panampangan Island, Tawi-tawi
Welcome to the longest white sandbar in the Philippines! Panampangan Island Beach is located in Basibuli Shoal in the town of Sapa-Sapa, Tawi-Tawi. The sandbar extends 3,128 meters and is characterized by a fine white sand beach. Panampangan Island or local community called this as "Virgin Island" has been in the lists of promoting the tourism industry in the Province. Tawi-Tawi is part of the Autonomous Region and Muslim Mindanao but you will believe that this will be the peaceful Province in the entire Autonomy.
Visiting the local community in Sapa-Sapa and Tandubas island town as one of my targets to understand how they live in a very simple way. Community Village and Houses called "Punduhan" just lies and stood strong on the seawater. They usually engage in planting seaweeds as the primary source of their living. Here, life is very secluded from discursive civilization. When you buy any kind of seafood, scales are not necessary and they just price you base on their conscience and dignity.
After the community visit, we hire a man-made type speed boat with 3 small engines that make it faster than the ordinary one to reach the famous longest sandbar in the Philippines - the Panampangan Island Beach.
An hour journey from the island town of Sapa-Sapa, this island reflects from farthest sighted fronting you that makes me more excited to touch down to its fine white sand. It so looks beautiful and very unique! Climate condition in Tawi Tawi is generally moderate but occasionally rainfalls in the afternoon, therefore, I suggest you bring any first aid medicine or kit.
Upon reaching Panampangan Island, nothing that I can say but WOW! Its finest white sand sink to my feet that make me fun running on its sandbar. I'll give my two thumbs up to you! I can say that I was very lucky enough to step and mark my footprint on this crazy beautiful island of Panampangan. I know that there are more undiscovered beautiful places here in Tawi-Tawi but I was very happy that I touch one of your finest.
HOW TO GET THERE
- Airline flight available daily from your destination to Zamboanga City
- From Zamboanga, book an Airline ticket to Bongao. travel time will be 30-45 minutes
- Go to Pantalan or Bongao Port
- Should hire a Boat to reach Panampangan Island beach, the price ranging 2,500 to 3, 000 pesos good for 3 to 5 person.