Panampangan Island

Panampangan Island is an island in the Sulu Sea, located in the municipality of Bongao in the province of Tawi-Tawi, Philippines. It boasts of having the longest sandbar in the Philippines. It stretches for about three kilometers and can be seen during low tide. The island also has turquoise water and coral reefs that are teeming with marine life.

The island is accessible by boat from the town of Bongao, which is about two hours away from Panglima Sugala, the capital of Tawi-Tawi. The island has a small population of about 100 people, mostly belonging to the Sama Dilaut or Bajau ethnic group. The island has a simple and peaceful way of life, with fishing and seaweed farming as the main sources of livelihood.

The island is also rich in history and culture, as it was once a part of the Sulu Sultanate and a refuge for the Moro rebels during the Spanish and American colonial periods. The island has a fort that was built by Sultan Jamalul Kiram II in 1894 to defend against foreign invaders. The island also hosts an annual festival called Kamahardikaan, which celebrates the culture and heritage of Tawi-Tawi.

Panampangan Island is one of the hidden gems of Tawi-Tawi that showcases its natural beauty and diversity. It is a popular tourist destination among residents of Bongao, Panglima Sugala, and neighboring places.