Basilan Province, Philippines

Basilan Province, Philippines

• For 2020 Basilan (City of Isabela excluded) Population = 426,207
• For 2015 Basilan (except City of Isabela) Population = 346,579
• For 2010 Basilan Population + 293,322

Basilan Province is the largest and northernmost island of the Sulu Archipelago, situated just off the southern coast of the Zamboanga Peninsula in Mindanao, Philippines. It forms part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). The province’s capital is currently Lamitan City, while Isabela City—statistically independent—remains a key entry point and commercial center.

Travelers reach Basilan primarily by sea from Zamboanga City. From Zamboanga Port, ferries and fastcraft vessels regularly connect to Isabela City and Lamitan City. The sea crossing typically takes between 45 minutes (fastcraft) to about 2 hours (conventional ferry). Zamboanga City is easily accessible by air from Manila and other major Philippine cities; from its airport, ground transportation to the port is readily available.

Basilan’s economy is rooted in agriculture, forestry, and fishing, with coconut (copra), rubber, coffee, black pepper, palm oil, cassava, and rice as its chief crops. The province is also known for its abundant fish and seafood, including tuna, sardines, milkfish, and prawns. Seaweed farming is widespread along coastal municipalities. In recent years, the economy has shown substantial growth, driven by investments in agri-aqua industries and new public markets.

The major festival, Pakaradjaan Basilan, is celebrated annually every March, marking the province’s founding anniversary with a week-long showcase of local culture, crafts, cuisine, and unity among its various ethnic groups. Another highlight is the Lami-Lamihan Festival in Lamitan City each June, famed for its vibrant street dancing, Yakan weaving exhibitions, and lively music. These festivals aim to transform Basilan’s image and attract more visitors, featuring the province’s rich traditions and legendary hospitality.

Basilan Province is a place of natural abundance, cultural diversity, and promising economic development. Its economy thrives on agriculture and fisheries, while its festivals, notably Pakaradjaan and Lami-Lamihan, invite visitors to experience the island’s colorful traditions and scenic beauty. With improved security and more robust connectivity, Basilan is positioning itself as an emerging destination in Southern Philippines.

History of Basilan, Philippines

Basilan means “iron trail.” It was once called Tagima after a pre-Hispanic datu. The island’s early settlers were the Orang Dampuans, who were the ancestors of the Yakan. The legendary Sultan Kudarat maintained a stronghold in Lamitan town until the Spaniards crushed it in 1637. Jesuit missionaries arrived a few years later. The Dutch attacked Basilan in 1747 but were repulsed by the natives. The French attempted to occupy the province in 1844, but they, too, failed.

Soon thereafter, the Spaniards built a stone fort named after Queen Isabela II. When Zamboanga became a chartered city in 1936, it included Basilan. On July 1, 1948, Basilan itself became a separate city through Republic Act. No. 288. The city was converted into a province on December 27,1973 under Presidential Decree No.356.

In 2001, Basilan became part of the ARMM. Only Isabela City opted not to join the ARMM.

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