Onče Islas

Scenic landscapes, pristine beaches, and captivating natural beauty are some of the phrases one could say to describe the stunning Once Islas. Once Islas literally means 11 islands in Zamboanga City. These islands are another perfect destination for adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts. They are ideal for meaningful island hopping and photography opportunities the islands present a unique glimpse of natural rock formations, white sand beaches, and clear blue water.

Back in 2018, Once Islas became an ecotourism destination as an initiative of the local government to showcase its natural beauty to local and international tourists. The eleven islands are namely: Buh-Buh Island is derived from the Sama Bangingi’s “Babu-Babuh” a word for aunt; Kabugan Island is home to a large population of kabug or bat; Lampinigan Island is known for its lampinig of wasp; Sirommon Island is home to wild orchids that bloom few times in a year, and also known as a nesting ground for the local hawkbills turtle; Lambang-Lambang Island is a twin set island; Panganak Island had its name from the word anak or child as it seems like a child of Sirommon Island; Baguias Island is known for its white sand beach; Sallangan Island is named after the jellyfish surrounding its shore; Baung-Baung Island got its name from a small coconut shell used to store trinkets such as seashells; Simaddang Island is known as a healing island, a home to the local healer, and now a place for the local cemetery; and Bisaya-Bisaya Island features alligator-like rock formations with natural infinity pool.

However, due to conservation, the tourists can only visit three out of the eleven islands. These islands are Sirommon, Baung-Baung, and Bisaya-Bisaya islands. But there is so much to see in these islands such as the various colors of starfish. In 2020, Dr. Mudjeekewis D. Santos, a prominent Filipino scientist identified over 400 fish species around Sirommon Island. The biodiversity in the islands will give visitors a meaningful moment to experience leisure and nature.

For this other getaway to be experienced, visitors are encouraged to email their booking at onceislas@gmail.com or coordinate with Turismo Local of Zamboanga Office located at Paseo Del Mar. On the day of the reservation, visitors can take a public bus or rent a private vehicle from Zamboanga City proper to Brgy. Panubigan port, which is an hour’s ride.

For a great choice of memorable escapades, visit Once Islas. Vamos!