Batu-Batu, the hidden beauty in Tawi-Tawi

By Amiel Mark Cagayan,VERA Files

Behind the horrors of kidnappings that put Tawi-Tawi in the headlines, there's a lot of beauty to discover in the island province.

Nestled in the lush forests with a full view of the endless sea is barangay Batu-Batu, in the municipality of Panglima Sugala.

Blessed with abundant natural resources, the people thrive on the produce of the sea and their farmlands.
Barter trade, the ancient system method of commercial transaction where in which goods or services are directly exchanged for other goods or services without using a medium of exchange, such as money, is still very much alive in Batu-Batu. Saturdays, people flock to the market, including those from nearby islands to trade.

The town of Panglima Sugala is a unique crucible of culture. Of the  50,000 population, 99 per cent are Muslims and only one percent are Christians. The Muslims generally are from the Tausug tribe while the Christians are a mixture of Visayan, Ilonggos, Ilocanos and Bicolanos.

There is deep respect in matters of faith among the people of Panglima Sugala. It's not unusual to see Muslims join in the religious celebrations of the Christian minority. In Christian fiestas, the Muslims not only take part in the festivities but also take part in the Christian rituals.

It's a sight to see a Muslim carrying a Sto. Niño while dancing gaily to the beat of the drums.

Visitors to the place can only wish that the world would be better if everybody would have that open-minded spirituality practiced by the people of  Panglima Sugala and Batu-Batu.