I have seen pictures of stilt villages in Mindanao and often wonder at the resiliency and creativity of people living in it. I truly never thought that one day, I would actually see such a village for myself.
Rio Hondo and Mariki are adjoining villages located east of Fort Pilar. These villages are built out over the edge of the sea and the houses are joined by footbridges.
Built mainly with bamboos and any other logs, these houses are exposed to the elements of the sea but they have withstood the test of time.
You need a guide in wandering around Rio Hondo and Mariki for two things. First is to avoid risk of petty crimes and second is in order for you not to get lost in the labyrinth of foot bridges.
Navigating the entire place thru the footbridge is quite tricky and a bit dangerous because some of the steps are brittle and some have holes and that if you are not careful, you may find yourself swimming under some of the houses here.
And as I was walking around the village, you would really marvel at how some kids run around these brittle foot bridge and navigate around them with ease.
Other than the stilt houses, one thing you will notice around the village is the colorful dresses of Muslim ladies on Sunday in time for their worship. You should heed caution thou on taking photos because most of them won't allow you to take photos of them. But there are some folks and kids there who won't mind. The rule is, just ask permission first before taking their shots.
Wandering around Rio Hondo and Mariki Stilt Villages is truly an experience on its own not only because of the element of danger that may face you but more so because even for just few hours, you have gotten to experience what it's like to be in a village built out over the edge of the water.
I have seen pictures of stilt villages in Mindanao and often wonder at the resiliency and creativity of people living in it. I truly never thought that one day, I would actually see such a village for myself.
Rio Hondo and Mariki are adjoining villages located east of Fort Pilar. These villages are built out over the edge of the sea and the houses are joined by footbridges.
Built mainly with bamboos and any other logs, these houses are exposed to the elements of the sea but they have withstood the test of time.
Navigating the entire place thru the footbridge is quite tricky and a bit dangerous because some of the steps are brittle and some have holes and that if you are not careful, you may find yourself swimming under some of the houses here.
And as I was walking around the village, you would really marvel at how some kids run around these brittle foot bridge and navigate around them with ease.
Other than the stilt houses, one thing you will notice around the village is the colorful dresses of Muslim ladies on Sunday in time for their worship. You should heed caution thou on taking photos because most of them won't allow you to take photos of them. But there are some folks and kids there who won't mind. The rule is, just ask permission first before taking their shots.
Wandering around Rio Hondo and Mariki Stilt Villages is truly an experience on its own not only because of the element of danger that may face you but more so because even for just few hours, you have gotten to experience what it's like to be in a village built out over the edge of the water. 
Terrific capture as always! Such an interesting village! I do believe you would indeed a great deal of resiliency and creativity to live there! Hope your weekend has gone well! Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteSylvia
Nope, I haven't seen something like this but I sure would love to experience Zamboanga again. I once went there for half a day, nag Climaco Park lang and Pasonanca.
ReplyDeletethat's one unique experience. :)
ReplyDeleteIsn't the place dangerous? Are Christains welcome there? I heard Muslim Communities there can be hostile. Buti safe ka nakalabas doon.
ReplyDeleteInteresting feature. Something we seldom see on blogs. Yesterday I've watched a feature on Zamboanga. A colorful territory that I wish to visit.
ReplyDeletewow, you've been to Zamboanga?
ReplyDeleteI don't plan on setting up my house on stilts but cool entry on these stilt houses, oman!
ReplyDeleteI've a couple of friends who are from Zamboanga and I wish to visit that province soon.
-soloflighted.com
Beautiful post. I had plans of going to Jolo last year but had to cancel at the last minute due to work. It's great that you're able to find time (and the courage) to go visit Basilan. I still want to go... someday. :)
ReplyDeletedefinitely one great walk that we had. hahaha... salamat kay Vin.
ReplyDeleteThat was one different trip Attorney. I always wanted to experience cultures in Zamboanga. I hope I can go there soon.
ReplyDeleteAmazing trip. Medyo dangerous ang alam ko sa mga ganyang places. Ingat lagi.
ReplyDeleteI always associate Zamboanga with colorful vintas and colorful clothes and colorful accessories too. This post certainly made me think otherwise. Hope they are fine living in such perilous condition.
ReplyDeleteI'm so envious! pangarap ko makatungtong ng Zambo, Basilan at pati na Jolo. Si Dominic kase d nagyaya2, late na nag-kwento. Saw ur pic sa FB,mukhang safe naman kase napansin ko dala nyo pa mga mamahaling cam nyo. Cguro pagnagawe ako jan magmu-Muslim outfit ako at super low profile lng, sanay naman ako maging dugyot eh. hehe
ReplyDeleteHi Oman! Wonderful shots!!
ReplyDeleteLong time no see...
Blogtrotter Two is leaving the Côte d’Azur 2010; but it has a beautiful spot for you... Enjoy and have a wonderful week ahead!!
Great blog to cyber-wander. :)
ReplyDeleteimbis na kotse ang nasa garahe - banca hehe..
ReplyDeleteReminds me of Brunei! My hosts didn't bring me here when I visited years ago :(
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tips. It's my turn to explore that wonderful city this June. I've been there 15 years ago and I'm sure it has already transformed so much. Did you by any chance get to Tawi-tawi?
ReplyDelete