Tawi-Tawi mat-weaving-inspired seaport nears completion

THE Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) announced that the construction of the P50 million Tawi-Tawi Mat-Weaving-inspired concept of seaport in is track for completion.

The seaport project in the town of Simunul, Tawi-Tawi is anticipated to enhance tourism bringing new opportunities to the province in particular and BARMM in general.

Collaboratively initiated by the BARMM's Ministry of the Interior and Local Government (MILG), Tawi-Tawi provincial government, and the municipal government of Simunul, the project is anticipated to be completed and turned over in the first quarter of 2024.

Lawyer Naguib Sinarimbo, MILG minister, said in a statement on Tuesday, August 29, that the seaport does not only promises improved tourism services but also draws inspiration from Tawi-Tawi's intricate mat-weaving tradition, making it an attraction in itself.

“The intricate Tawi-Tawi mat-weaving tradition, which is renowned for its symmetrical, lovely, and methodical use of lines, space, and colors, served as inspiration for the exterior wall design, making it a tourist destination unto itself,” Sinarimbo said.

“With tourism on the rise in Tawi-Tawi, particularly on the historic island municipality of Simunul, the passenger terminal will be vital in improving tourism services in this part of the region. It will have a significant impact on tourism in the province and throughout the Bangsamoro region,” Sinarimbo added.

He said the seaport will cater to both tourists and Simunul's residents, being home to the country's inaugural mosque, the Sheikh Karimul Makhdum mosque, established in 1380 by the eponymous Arab missionary.

He said the seaport offers an awe-inspiring vista of Bud Bongao or Bongao Peak, the highest elevation in the municipality of Bongao, a favored tourist spot for those visiting the province of Tawi-Tawi. (SunStar Zamboanga)