Zamboanga City is a highly-urbanized city in southernmost part of Zamboanga peninsula. Known for its Hispanic influences in its culture, it bears the nickname Ciudad Latina de Asia or “Asia's Latin City”.
Seven hundred km away from Manila, a visit to the Zamboanga City is like travelling to another country because it is closer to Malaysia and Indonesia than to Manila. But a long trip to the city will give you a worthwhile journey.
Zamboanga City is a flagship of tourism destination in Zamboanga Peninsula. Do you want an exceptional tour to Zamboanga City? Well, to get you started, here are some of the city’s slices of paradise that will surely leave an impression to every tourist.
City’s Cultural Heritage at Fort Pilar
The Royal Fort of Our Virgin Lady of the Pillar of Zaragoza, commonly known as Fort Pilar, is a 17th-century military defense fortress built by the Spanish colonial government in Zamboanga City. The fort, which is now a regional museum of the National Museum of the Philippines, is the major landmark of the city and a symbol of the city's cultural heritage. Outside the eastern wall is a Marian shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar, the patroness of the city.
Place of Worship
The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is the seat of the Archdiocese of Zamboanga located in the city. The first church was originally located at the front of Plaza Pershing, where the present Universidad de Zamboanga stands. The church was designated a cathedral in 1910 when the diocese of Zamboanga was created. In 1943, the cathedral was one of the edifices bombarded by Japanese soldiers during World War II. In 1956, the cathedral was relocated beside Ateneo de Zamboanga University, formerly known as the Jardin de Chino.
Eco-tourism at Pasonanca Park
Referred to as the Little Baguio of the South, Pasonanca Eco-Park is one the country's most premier tourist spot. Opened in June 2004, the park was developed in 1912 under Pershing's administration with only one swimming pool. Two pools were added under Climaco's term.
Landmark at Pettit Barracks
Pettit Barracks was located along with Camp John Hay and the location of the US Army's 43d Infantry Regiment (PS).
Recreational Facilities
The Zamboanga Golf and Country Club is the oldest golf course in the Philippines established in 1910 when the Philippines were an American territory. It overlooks the Basilan Strait. It was once used as a landing strip.
Festivals
The Dia de Zamboanga (Day of Zamboanga) is celebrated every February 26, the day when Zamboanga was declared as a chartered city under the Commonwealth Government in 1937.
The Hermosa Festival, a month-long festival held every October, is celebrated in honor of the miraculous image of Our Lady of the Pillar, the patroness of Zamboanga City.