Tandubas

Welcome to Tandubas, the tranquil island municipality in Tawi-Tawi where the ocean hums lullabies and time slows down to match the gentle rhythm of the tides. Nestled in the Sulu Archipelago, Tandubas is your off-the-grid paradise — untouched, uncrowded, and unbelievably beautiful.

Tandubas is one of the oldest settlements in Tawi-Tawi, its name derived from “Tanjung Bas” (Malay for “Cape of Sand”), perfectly hinting at its coastal charms. This municipality comprises over 20 island barangays, where houses float on stilts and locals travel by bangka (small wooden boats).

• Panampangan Island: While technically located near Bongao, many locals from Tandubas consider this white sandbar a shared natural treasure. A must-see for its powder-fine sand and turquoise waters.
• Sangay Siapo: A small but stunning island known for its peaceful vibe and fishing culture.
• Traditional Sama-Bajau Villages: Witness the famed luma (stilt houses) of the Sama people, a cultural heritage worth experiencing firsthand.

Tandubas is deeply rooted in the Sama and Bajau traditions. Here, cultural pride is worn like woven banig — full of color, symmetry, and meaning. The locals are seafarers, artisans, and storytellers, living in harmony with the sea. Respect for elders, community feasts, and religious observance are cornerstones of daily life.

• Latô Salad: Fresh sea grapes drizzled with vinegar and chili.
• Piyanggang Manok: Chicken cooked in burnt coconut and spices — a Tausug delicacy enjoyed in neighboring areas but popular here too.
• Seafood Galore: Crabs, squid, and fish straight from the net to the grill.

• Kamahardikaan Festival: Celebrated throughout Tawi-Tawi, including Tandubas, this festival honors Islamic heritage and Sama-Bajau culture with kulintangan music, traditional dances, and boat races.
• Hariraya Eid’l Fitr and Eid’l Adha: Islamic holidays are observed with community feasts and prayers, reflecting the municipality’s strong spiritual roots

Traditional music in Tandubas is centered on the kulintangan ensemble — a melodic arrangement of brass gongs and drums that brings soul to celebrations and rituals. Local youths are also blending tradition with modern genres like acoustic and reggae, adding a unique island flair.

• Rich Sama-Bajau heritage
• Authentic island living
• Fishing villages on stilts
• Boat-making and handwoven crafts
• Eco-tourism and marine biodiversity

• Bring cash and power banks — connectivity is limited but nature compensates.
• Respect local customs, especially during prayer times and community gatherings.
• Don’t skip the boat tour — every island has a story.