Mount Bongao lies in the Tawi Tawi region of the southern Philippines; a sacred Muslim landmark and a moderate climb. It is the country’s southernmost mountain and is more commonly known as Bud Bongao.
Mount Bongao is a moderate two-hour trek from its base and is rated as non-difficult, trail class 2. The mountain takes on the form of Cape Town’s Table Mountain when approaching from the sea even though it is of modest height - a little over 400 meters. All trekkers must wear a neck cloth, or sawal, as a mark of respect for the local culture.
Apart from the stunning views from the apex, visitors will also find an ancient tomb. It belongs to a Muslim saint and is purported to possess healing powers. There is also the sweet smell of rangutay trees up here, along with numerous monkeys to contend with.
Getting There & Away
Bongao, the nearest town to Mount Bongao, has an airport (Sanga-Sanga Airport) and daily flights come in from Manila and Zamboanga City. Flight time from the capital is around 90 minutes. Jeepneys and taxis run visitors to guesthouses and to downtown Bongao. You an also get to Bongao by ferry from Jolo and Zamboanga City. Pasiagan Village is the jumping off point for Mount Bongao