Simunul Island
Simunul Island can be found in Tawi-Tawi in the Mindanao Region. It is located south of the main island of Tawi-Tawi, less than 20 kilometers away.
While it has six beaches and several snorkeling spots, its main attraction is Sheikh Karimul Makhdum Mosque, the oldest mosque in the Philippines. The current structure was built in the 1960s, as the original one was destroyed during World War II.
Four pillars from the original structure have remained standing and can be found inside the mosque. These pillars made of Ipil are protected so they can be preserved. They are believed to be the oldest Islamic artifacts in the country, being at least 400 years old. Because of this, the building is a declared National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission and a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum. The island is also considered the birthplace of Islam in the country.
Other attractions you can find on the island are the welcome arch, which features a giant Quran at the top, and the tomb of Sheik Makhdum, which can be found near the mosque.
Best time to visit
Since the island can only be visited by boat, the best time to visit it is during the dry season, which usually starts in December and lasts until May. This ensures that you will have a smoother boat trip and that you can explore the island's outdoor attractions without worrying about rain.
