Zamboanga Sibugay has a lot to offer to tourists and freedivers because it is home to several beautiful islands and white sand beaches. One of the most underrated tourist destinations in the province is Pandilusan Island.
ABOUT PANDILUSAN ISLAND
Pandilusan Island is a small virgin island located in Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay. It is an hour away from the mainland and accessible by boat.
The island is well-known for its crystal-clear water, powdery sand, and abundant marine life underwater, making it a high potential for tourism and a freediving destination.
It is a small island, so there are no residents. There is, however, a military base camp to keep visitors safe and protect the island from illegal fishing. The local government has also assigned caretakers to keep the island clean.
Tourists and locals are welcome to visit the island. However, it is necessary to coordinate with the Local Government Unit and arrange a boat rental before you visit the island.
HOW TO GET THERE
Pandilusan Island is part of the municipality of Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay. It is accessible from different locations, but if you are unfamiliar with the area, the easiest way is to go directly to Payao.
If you are traveling from a distant location, the nearest jump-off city is Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur. From there, you can hire a private service that will take you directly to Payao in two to three hours. Having private transport is recommended because Payao is a remote location.
Another option is to ride a public bus from Pagadian City and drop in Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay. Rent a motorcycle from Imelda to take you to Payao, which is only an hour away.
Another jump-off location is in Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay. If you live near the area, you can travel from there for 3 hours to reach Payao. You can hire a service to take you directly to Payao or ride a public bus from Ipil and stop in Imelda. From there, you can rent a motorcycle to take you to Payao.
ACTIVITIES YOU CAN ENJOY ON THE ISLAND
To fully enjoy and experience the whole island, these are the activities you can do with your friends and family:
• Snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and Freediving (Bring your own equipment)
• Banana Boat
• Swimming
• Volleyball
• Sunset and Sunrise watching
• Camping
WHAT TO BRING
If you plan to visit this island, make sure to bring these essentials:
Camping gear or a Hammock
Because there are no hotels or rooms on the island, camping gear is essential for those wishing to stay overnight. There are tents and cottages for rent, but you can also bring your sleeping gear.
Toiletries
There are toilets and bathrooms, but fresh water is not available. The water on the island used for cleaning and bath is salty.
Drinking water
Since there is no fresh water source on the island, you will need to bring your own. A mini store on the island sells 20L of drinking water if you want hassle-free travel.
Food, cooking, and eating utensils
Bring your food because there are no restaurants in the area. There is, however, a mini store that sells limited groceries.
Powerbank
The island does not have regular electricity or a power source. A light source is only available at night for a few hours, so bring power banks and flashlights.
Life jacket
A life jacket is optional because life jackets are available for rent in Payao Port.
Freediving or Snorkeling gear
The island is perfect for underwater activities, so bring your mask, snorkel, and fins. There is also a buoy for rent in the Payao Port.
Pandilusan Island is serene and simply captivating. It’s the perfect place to unwind, relax, and escape the city. You can visit the island any time of the year, so if you want to spend your weekend somewhere new, Pandilusan Island is the place to go!
