Midsalip, Zamboanga Del Sur
Midsalip, a 4th class municipality in Zamboanga del Sur, lies inland about 21.8 kilometers east of the national highway and approximately 46 kilometers from the provincial capital, Pagadian City. According to the 2000 census, Midsalip has a population of 28,909, with 5,479 households. Geographically, it is situated at 8 degrees, 10'1" north and 123 degrees, 16'10" east.
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| source: www.travelingmorion.com |
Before gaining municipal status, Midsalip was initially part of Pagadian, then Aurora, and later became a barangay of Liargao, now Ramon Magsaysay. The Subanens, led by Datu Lumbos Guilingan, were the earliest settlers, choosing to settle near the big river named "Migsalip," meaning "to collect" or "accumulate" in Subanen. Eventually, the pronunciation evolved to "Midsalip" as more settlers, including Christians and other Subanen tribes, were attracted to the flourishing livelihood opportunities in the area.
On September 9, 1964, Midsalip was established as a municipality through Executive Order No. 94. However, it was dissolved on February 26, 1966, following a Supreme Court decision on the legality of municipal funds. Midsalip reverted to barrio status until May 8, 1967, when Republic Act No. 4871 restored its municipal status.
Midsalip offers natural attractions like Crystal Falls and is home to the Subanen Youth Camp. The Subanen indigenous people, known for their peaceful nature, inhabit the western part of Mindanao and actively contribute to the preservation of Mt. Midsalip's natural beauty. The municipality's scenic landscapes, coupled with its rich history, make it a unique destination in Zamboanga del Sur.
Getting to Midsalip in Zamboanga del Sur is relatively straightforward, although it requires some travel from nearby cities or towns. Here's a simplified guide:
1. From Pagadian City:
Midsalip is approximately 46 kilometers away from Pagadian City, the capital of Zamboanga del Sur. You can travel by bus, van, or private vehicle. Public transportation options are available at Pagadian City's terminals, with buses and vans regularly traveling to various destinations within the province. Look for vehicles heading towards Midsalip or inquire at the terminals for the most convenient route.
2. From Other Towns or Cities:
If you're coming from other towns or cities in Zamboanga del Sur or nearby provinces, you can also take buses, vans, or private vehicles to reach Midsalip. Major roads and highways connect Midsalip to neighboring areas, making travel relatively accessible.
3. Local Transportation:
Once you arrive near Midsalip, you may need to take local transportation to reach the town center or specific barangays within Midsalip. Tricycles, motorcycles, or habal-habal (motorcycle taxis) are common modes of local transportation in rural areas like Midsalip. You can easily find these vehicles at transportation terminals or designated waiting areas.
4. Navigating Within Midsalip:
If you're exploring different attractions or barangays within Midsalip, consider hiring a local guide or using GPS navigation on your mobile device. Some areas may not have well-marked roads or signage, so having a guide or using GPS can help ensure you reach your intended destination safely.
5. Plan Your Trip:
Before traveling to Midsalip, it's advisable to plan your trip ahead of time. Check the bus or van schedules, prepare necessary travel documents, and consider factors like weather conditions and road conditions. It's also a good idea to have cash on hand, as some remote areas may have limited access to banking facilities or ATMs.
