Business is booming in Bongao

Bongao is the capital of the Province of Tawi-tawi. The municipality is similar to other municipalities of the Philippines - laid back but the town is vibrant as it holds a melting pot of different cultures from Tausug, Islam, Badjao and Christians. Side by side, a catholic church and mosque face each other but the town is peaceful, people living harmoniously with each other. Now these probably isn’t heard over the news but its true, the town is peaceful and safe as long as you know how to travel safe.

The municipality has 2 banks with ATM services- Land Bank of the Philippines and Philippine National Bank, all located in the town center.I can also see some department stores like Midway which is owned by a chinese businessmen, pawnshops, restaurant, convenience stores and internet cafes. 

My host family told me that investors prefer Bongao than Jolo or Basilan in doing business because they feel they are more safe here. In the market, they have Malaysian goodies for sale like chocolates, coffee, eggs, noodles etc. There is a direct trip from Bongao to Sandakan (Sabah), Malaysia using fast craft. The ticket costs P6000 round trip and you cant get a one way ticket and trip is only for 4 hours compared to the 16 hours trip to Zamboanga. 

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