Zamboanga: A Paradox in Paradise

Tourists and photographers would probably hesitate if you invite them to a place that will necessitate them to cross the boundaries of Visayas, like Mindanao. It is unavoidable. People are aware of the conflicts happening in some areas of Mindanao.

But amidst all these issues, Zamboanga made its way up. Even prouder and stronger, Zamboanga City continues to flourish because of the local government’s undying efforts to promote local tourism.

Zamboanga City is not just a city, not just a gateway to Southeast Asia, but also an eye-opener for non-Islamic individuals and photographers. Aside from the pristine beaches and long stretch of mountains, it is the kind of destination that showcases the best of both worlds, the diversity of the Catholic and Islamic influence. Known as Asia’s Latin City, Zamboanga is not just a tourism hub in Western Mindanao but a home for the Spanish-speaking locals, diverse cuisine, well-preserved fortress, mosque, and colorful vintas and pink sand beach.

Getting there

Zamboanga City is found in the southernmost tip of Zamboanga Peninsula, surrounded by other provinces namely Zamboanga Del Norte, Zamboanga Del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay. Bounding the city are large bodies of water such as the Sulu Sea on the west, Moro Gulf on the east, and the Basilan Strait and Celebes Sea on the south.

Situated 850 kilometers south of Manila, the trip to Zamboanga City takes about an hour and a half by plane. Cebu Pacific Air offers daily flights to Zamboanga at reasonable prices. (Check out their promo fares at www.cebupacificair.com.)

Getting around

As soon as we got off the plane, the first thing we noticed was the Zamboanga International Airport’s unique structural design. Its roofs are like nipa huts, a reflection of Zamboanga’s culture and ethnic heritage. Awed, we decided not to take a photo of it. We leave it to you, to have that “first-hand” experience.

Like what we always suggest, the most practical way to get around provinces and cities is by renting a private car. Private car rentals in Zamboanga would cost around Php 300-350 per hour. This option favors photographers because it allows them to stop and shoot. We advise you to make arrangements with your hotel and have your itinerary checked beforehand; although, the best way to maximize the whole trip is to ask the tourism authorities (local tourism office located at the Sunken Garden).

Zamboanga City Hall

In downtown Zamboanga City is the City Hall, completed in 1907 during the American period. A natural attraction by itself for its quaint structure, the building also provides a good backdrop for both tourists and photographers who want to shoot the Rizal Park across the building. During Christmas, they decorate and light up the whole building with thousands of lanterns and lights.

Just a short walk from the city hall is the city’s public square called Plaza Pershing that was named after John Joseph Pershing, the American general who fought against the Moros. Built in 1915, Plaza Pershing had undergone a few renovations that include the gazebo and fountain.

Taluksangay Mosque

Built in 1885, Taluksangay Mosque was the first cradle of Islam Religion in Zamboanga Peninsula, the oldest in Western Mindanao. And despite the military conflicts in Mindanao, the mosque is still visited by tourists and Muslims from all over the world. In fact high officials have visited the historical site. Hadji Abdullah built this mosque inside a Muslim village found in Barangay Taluksangay.

Taluksangay is one of those indigenous Muslim communities that live by the water. The Badjaos, also known as sea gypsies are one of these indigenous people.

Fort Pilar

Originally named Real Fuerza de Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragoza, Fort Pilar was a military fortress built to protect the Spanish and Christian settlers from the Moro pirates and invaders. Founded by Father Melchor de Vera in 1635, the fortress was built in honor of the miraculous Our Lady of the Pillar, which played a very significant role in Chavacano’s religion preferences. Zamboanga is a Catholic-dominated city in Muslim Mindanao.

At the back of the fort is a large shrine dedicated to Nuestra Señora del Pilar where masses are regularly held. Fort Pilar also holds a museum that houses the Chavacano’s historical and cultural artifacts. Secure IDs because officers will ask for them before you enter the fortress.

Another public square, just across the fortress is Plaza del Pilar. Bar and cafes are found in the vicinity, including stalls that sell Zamboanga’s local goods.

About Zamboanga La Hermosa Festival

Otherwise known as the Fiesta Pilar, Zamboanga La Hermosa Festival is held every October in honor of the patroness Nuestra Señora del Pilar. Apart from the usual Catholic practices like the procession, Chavacanos also celebrate it with an annual street dance competition, sardines festival, and a grand fireworks display. But Regatta de Zamboanga, the annual racing competition of vintas or the Muslim’s traditional sailboat is the biggest attraction of them all.

Paseo del Mar

Not far from Fort Pilar is Paseo del Mar, which was opened to the public last 2009. Aside from food stalls and resto-bars, Paseo del Mar also has a mini-port that accommodates trips going to Sta. Cruz Islands.

Great Sta. Cruz Island

Aside from the long stretch of mountain formations, Zamboanga is a well-known destination for snorkelling and diving. Sta. Cruz Islands, which consist of the Little Sta. Cruz and the Great Sta. Cruz are another must-see attractions for tourists and photographers. Little Sta. Cruz Island takes pride in its pristine white beach while the Great Sta. Cruz Island is famous for its pink sand beach. Sadly, the pinkish sand is caused by previous coral reef mining activities in the area.

The speedboat ride to Great Sta. Cruz Island takes about twenty minutes. All trips must be coordinated with the Philippine Tourism Authority.

Pasonanca Park

A one-of-a-kind sanctuary, Pasonanca Park represents Zamboanga’s diverse flora and fauna. Situated seven kilometers away from city proper, its cool clime goes to show that it is the “Little Baguio of the South.”

In addition, Pasonanca Park has an aviary; here are found the famous White Breasted Sea Eagle and the Cassowary, a very large and heavy flightless bird that is often found in Australia’s rainforests. Cassowary is a very shy bird but it could also be very aggressive when disturbed. Beware though, Cassowary is the world’s most dangerous bird, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. A fast, telephoto will save you big time. The aviary is open from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

Another must-see attraction is Jardin Maria Clara Lobregat, a butterfly garden dedicated to the late mayor of Zamboanga City, Maria Clara Lobregat. Other attractions found in the park are the Tree House, the camping ground, swimming pools, and Abong - Abong Park and Climaco Freedom Park. Pasonanca Park is open from 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.

Merloquet Falls

Though the road is not yet fully developed, Merloquet in Barangay Sibulao is gaining popularity because of its cascading waterfalls. Going to Merloquet Falls would take about one and a half to two hours and the trek is an hour or so. The trek is steep but the scenery is priceless, so much so that when you think of Zamboanga, one of the first things that will pop out your mind is Merloquet.

Merloquet Falls has an upper and lower level with a height of ten and five meters respectively. Don’t forget to bring an extra shirt (or set of clothes if you want to take a short dip on the upper pool), water, lunch or snacks, and trash bags. Wear decent clothes and the proper footwear for hiking.