Getting Around Zamboanga City

Zamboanga City being a major airport hub in southwestern Mindanao is serviced by at least 6 flights a day from Manila. Short connecting flights to the neighboring provinces and a very few international flights make the airport here a little busy.

From Manila are 2 flights each by Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines - that is, 1 in the morning and 1 in the afternoon. Last plane out in Zamboanga by 5pm.

The airstrip here is a little bit rough, expect a bumpy landing. Last time I heard is that they are putting up a new airport in the very near future, the reason there's not much improvement in the present airport.

Weesam Fastcraft is basically a passenger ferry that connects Zamboanga, Philippines to Sandakan, Malaysia via a 12-hour sea cruise. Making twice a week round trips, the fastcraft makes stops at Jolo,Sulu and Bongao, Tawi-tawi. Cargo goods are discouraged making stopover time minimal.

The fastcraft can accomodate up to 150 passengers in an airplane-like seating arrangement and has in-house video entertainment plus a refreshment bar. Air-conditioned.

Keep in mind that Zamboanga does not have any taxis. SO don't expect yellow cabs to pull up once you leave the airport. Most people leaving the airport (locals anyway) take a tricycle to town, which isn't too far away anyway. So pack light.

For foreign travellers, the easiest is to book Philippine Airlines (PAL) through Manila as part of an international ticket. There are two flights daily from Manila to Zamboanga, (very!) early morning and mid-afternoon.

There are also airline connections from eastern Indonesia into Davao (Mindanao) and from eastern Malaysia into Cebu, although not frequent. From either city there are flights or (overnight) ships to Zamboanga.

Upon arrival at Zamboanga airport, foreigners are required to register with the Immigration Service. However, sometimes there is no one at the counter, in which case just walk through!

Be sure to re-confirm return flights, especially to Manila.

These motorized pedicabs are a major means of local transportation. The drivers are like New York cabbies, so be sure to agree on a price before you get in. Within the town the fare is 10 - 20 Pesos one way, regardless of how many children, chickens, or cousins are packed inside or cling around the outside. Even when you agree on a price, the driver may ask for more once you get to your destination. You can either stand on principle or consider how little these drivers make in a day; it's your choice.

PAL flies twice a day everyday to Zamboanga City.