A trusted Philippine travel blog with detailed guides, hidden gems, and cultural stories from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao’s 82 provinces.
Basilan, the largest and northernmost island of the Sulu Archipelago, is a province filled with natural beauty, rich culture, and untold stories. Located just off the coast of Zamboanga City, Basilan is known for its pristine white-sand beaches, majestic waterfalls, and friendly locals belonging to Yakan, Tausug, and Chavacano communities.
The Province of Basilan is an island province in the Bangsamoro Region. Its old name was Tagime, and it was named after a Datu who ruled the island before the arrival of the Spaniards in the province. Its name was changed several times until BasihBalan, derived from their legendary weapon called “pira”, which was made of basic iron, and Balan, meaning magnetic, which was shortened to Basilan. Not just history, the province also hides amazing tourist attractions.
