Mindanao | Maluso town has best sunset in Basilan
Municipality of Maluso, located on the island province of Basilan. A 4th class municipality with a population of 45,730 people according to the census 2020 and the third largest municipality in the province after Isabela City and Lamitan City. This municipality is geographically located in the southern retired part of the islet, near the Sulu and Banguingui Islands,
During my short visit, I gained new experiences from the peoples' hospitality of Maluso to beautiful strands, and lots of musketeers, and one of the most memorable is to witness the most memorable twilight in my entire visit to Basilan. Maluso is home to colorful tribes that live peacefully across the town similar to Yakan, Iranun, Banguingui, and Tausug along with nonage lines from Luzon and Visayas. The majority of the people rely mostly on marine resources and the agriculture industry; the majority on rubber plantations, fruits, and root crops.
Maluso is very well known for several bombing incidents years ago that give negative impressions of the town. Considered one of the unsafe places for non-local residents and travelers. Despite negative perceptions, the government is pursuing change, a positive change that can bring economic progress to their town and community.
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Maluso's government became more serious about economic progress because they see the great potential in the field of socio-economic development. In fact, the government launched the" Marayaw Maluso Peace andEco-Tourism Hub of Southern Philippines" in July 2022, a program that aims to promote peace, care for the environment and introduce Tourism. I am a living testimony that this place has great potential in the field of tourism
The Island strands
Having beautiful islands is a hidden treasure as the locals considered this a paradise. For those who don't know, Maluso is located on an island that is surrounded by many tiny islands. If Isabela City has Malamawi Island, Maluso has Langgas Island; and that is just one of the many islands that can be explored in this beautiful town.
Although Maluso town gained negative perceptions back then, the introduction of tourism may give ways to change the perspective positively that create more livelihood and jobs for the community. It may also open new doors of progress, and a peaceful environment that gives a positive impact in the near future. We are very positive that the community will live a better and more peaceful life.
The Municipal Town Hall
During the few days of staying in Maluso, one of the things that impressed me was their town hall building, as I go places, I mostly visited. The Municipal Hall is truly a unique identity of Maluso. It has unique designs with a combination of ancient Islamic and ultramodern structures featuring a huge landscape, a park, and an open ground. The terrain is commodious and also serves as a sightseeing spot for the locals during twilight.
Sunset by the Bay
No electricity at this time and rotational brownout is the daily story in this town. So Quiet! and Hot. To make our day end, we went to a small port beside the public market to take a quick break. Waves lapping, and some motorboats passing are the only sounds that can be heard.
As the sun goes down the sky becomes more colorful and beautiful; until I witnessed the sanguine sunset in Basilan. I ended this trip with an unforgettable sunset to complete my day.
Tomorrow is another stage of our trip to Basilan!
Happy to work, travel, and reprise
HOW TO GET THERE
- The closest Airport is located in Zamboanga City, the Zamboanga City International Airport.
- From the Airport, ride by Tricycle going to Zamboanga City Port
- Then, buy a ferry ticket to Isabela City
- Upon appearance in Isabela City, ride a tricycle to the Maluso terminal
Schedule of Ferry Trip from Zamboanga City to Basilan - 2022 updates
NOTES:
- Maluso has located 30 km from Isabela City.
- This city can be reached using public transportation or renting a motorcycle
- Before going, better to be accompanied by local friends as your local guide
- Coordinate with the Maluso Tourism Office for your arrival