Basilan is an island province in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. It encompasses the northernmost part of the Sulu Archipelago and is one of its largest provinces. The three primary ethnolinguistic groups in Basilan are the Yakans, Chavacanos, and Tausugs. These groups, together with other ethnic groups, make the province’s culture and tradition more vibrant and unique. Its economy is driven by various sectors such as agriculture, fishing, finance, and other commercial establishments. There are also several flora and fauna in this province.
Basilan Zip Codes, Postal Codes, and Area Code
Here are the postal codes (zip codes) of the two component cities and eleven municipalities in Basilan. Its postal code (zip code) is 7300 – 7312, and the area code is 062.
| City / Municipality | Postal Code / Zip Code | Area Code |
| Akbar | 7307 | 062 |
| Al-Barka | 7308 | 062 |
| Hadji Mohammad Ajul | 7309 | 062 |
| Hadji Muhtamad | 7310 | 062 |
| Isabela de Basilan (Isabela City) | 7300 | 062 |
| Lamitan City | 7302 | 062 |
| Lantawan | 7301 | 062 |
| Maluso | 7303 | 062 |
| Sumisip | 7305 | 062 |
| Tabuan-Lasa | 7312 | 062 |
| Tipo-Tipo | 7304 | 062 |
| Tuburan | 7306 | 062 |
| Ungkaya Pukan | 7311 | 062 |
Key Areas of Basilan
Here are some key areas of Basilan, which consists of the Lamitan City and the municipalities of Lantawan, Sumisip, Maluso, and Tipo-Tipo. These areas significantly contribute to the province’s growth and development.
1. Lamitan City. The City of Lamitan is the de jure capital of Basilan. Its topography is relatively plain along coastal regions and hilly in some areas. The Lami-Lamihan Festival is one of the notable events celebrated in this city. This area’s tourist spots and landmarks include Calugusan Beach, Bulingan Falls, Marine Protected Area, and parks.
2. Lantawan. It is a third-class municipality consisting of 25 barangays. There are several beaches and islands that offer picturesque views and relaxing vibes. The government programs and projects contribute to the growth and development of this town, which also addresses and supports the needs of its residents.
3. Sumisip. Sumisip is a first-class municipality with twenty-nine barangays. The Kalasig-lasigan Festival is a notable celebration in the province, featuring various activities and programs. The languages commonly used by its locals are Yakan, Chavacano, and Tagalog.
4. Maluso. It is classified as a fourth-class municipality in the province. It is one of the most populated areas in Basilan. One of the well-known sites in this town is the Gaunan Island. This municipality has several ethnolinguistic tribes, such as Iranun, Yakan, Tausug, and Banguigui.
5. Tipo-Tipo. This town’s topography is generally flat, with some hilly areas gradually sloping towards the coast and inland regions. Its name has two origins. The first is from the term “Pag Tipun-Tipunan”, which refers to an area where traders and settlers meet to exchange goods and services, and the second is from the “Tipu-Tipu” tree that thrives in it.
FAQs
What language is spoken in Basilan?
The languages spoken in the Province of Basilan are Yakan, Chavacano, Tausug, Cebuano, Sama, Tagalog, and English.
What is the main product of Basilan?
The main products of Basilan are rubber, copra, coconut, black pepper, coffee, and African palm oil. The other products are crops, such as corn, cacao, palay, and cassava, and seafood, such as sardines, tuna, and mackerel.
What festival is celebrated in Basilan?
Some famous festivals celebrated in Basilan are the Pakaradjaan Festival and the Lami-Lamihan Festival.