PALANJAL KAM NI
MUNICIPALITY OF TURTLE ISLANDS
TAWI-TAWI’S GATEWAY TO THE WORLD
Turtle Islands also know as Taganak Island The Turtle Islands is a 5th class municipality in the province of Tawi-Tawi, Philippines and was constituted as a ‘special municipal district’ under the jurisdiction of the Province of Sulu under Executive Order 95 signed by President Manuel Roxas on 13 October 1947.

The only major nesting habitat of Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the Philippines and the only major nesting ground in the whole ASEAN Region and the 11th major nesting site in the world.

It was proclaimed as Wildlife Sanctuary under Proclamation No. 171 on August 26, 1999 and identified as Extremely High (EH) for biodiversity conservation.

NATURAL SITES
TURTLE ISLANDS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE CONVENTION
It was proclaimed as Wildlife Sanctuary under Proclamation No. 171 on August 26, 1999 and identified as Extremely High (EH) for biodiversity conservation. The only major nesting habitat of Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the Philippines and the only major nesting ground in the whole ASEAN Region and the 11th major nesting site in the world.

The only major nesting habitat of Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the Philippines and the only major nesting ground in the whole ASEAN Region and the 11th major nesting site in the world.

It was proclaimed as Wildlife Sanctuary under Proclamation No. 171 on August 26, 1999 and identified as Extremely High (EH) for biodiversity conservation.

Recognition
2024 Peace and Order Council (POC)
Ministry of the Interior and Local Government
Local Government Unit of Turtle Islands, Tawi-Tawi has achieving a High Functional rating (85-100%) during the 2024 Peace and Order Council (POC) Audit.

A competent local government unit effective in delivering basic services trough an inter-agency collaboration and pursue a well-managed protected are and eco-tourism development projects that will help improve quality of life of the people towards progressive and sustainable local economy.

A model protected are for marine Turtles and world-class eco-tourism destination manage by God-fearing conscientious and empowered community, capable of sustaining a well-balance ecology through a competitive, inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development under a firm and transparent leadership.

Mayor’s Corner
Welcome to the Mayor’s Corner – a space dedicated to updates, messages, and initiatives from the Office of the Mayor. Stay informed about our programs, progress, and community goals.
Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh!
Welcome to the official website of the Municipality of Turtle Islands — the southernmost frontier of the Philippines and one of the country’s hidden ecological treasures. Our municipality is blessed with unspoiled natural beauty, rich marine biodiversity, and a community deeply rooted in culture, tradition, and resilience.
Turtle Islands holds a unique place in both national and regional heritage as part of the prestigious Asian Heritage Parks. Our shores serve as one of the few remaining nesting grounds of the endangered green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), earning us international recognition as a vital site for marine conservation. This honor reflects not just our geographic importance, but our collective commitment to environmental protection and sustainable stewardship.
As your Mayor, I am proud to lead initiatives that uphold both development and preservation. Our vision is to build a self-sustaining, peaceful, and progressive community through better infrastructure, inclusive services, and active participation from all sectors. We are working to enhance education, healthcare, tourism, and livelihood opportunities while ensuring that the identity and integrity of Turtle Islands remain protected for generations to come.
This website is a step toward greater transparency, engagement, and information-sharing. Whether you are a resident, a visitor, or a partner interested in our story, I invite you to explore and connect with us. Let us work together to celebrate our heritage, protect our environment, and move our beloved Turtle Islands toward a brighter and more sustainable future.
HON. MOHAMMAD FAIZAL H. JAMALUL
Municipal Mayor
