Don’t be confused as some say Jolo and some say Sulu and they are the same island. According to a world travel article, Boracay is not the only one of the Philippines’ most beautiful beach in the world, Quezon Beach in Patikul, Jolo is in a neck and neck comparison or more . The sand is touted to be finer, the water clearer and the most important factor is that the said beach unlike Boracay, is far from being commercialized. The enchanting lush vegetation, the wide expanse of powdery white sand and the clear azure blue water would surely fascinate you to be back over and over again. Only reason as I have mentioned a while ago is its not promoted well enough with the present cultural and political situation has something to do with it.

There is actually no record how Jolo got its name but a tale that was passed from generation to generation states that Jolo came from the “Ho Lang” which means good people. It was said that Chinese traders who frequent the area were pleased by the natives’ excellent attributes and honesty and called the place Ho Lang, later on the name was shortened to ho-lo which means good place. Jolo, the capital and the smallest among the 18 municipalities that comprises the province, has a total land area of 2,364 hectares. The island of Jolo is a volcanic island with a number of extinct volcanoes in which the western side of the island is Mount Tumatangas, at 2,664 feet is considered to be Jolo’s highest elevation.

Jolo’s population is approximately 849,000 and about 20 % of which are Christians and the bigger 80% constitutes the Muslims. Rich in natural resources with an abundant area of streams provide the residents with ample supply of fresh water fishes with extensive areas of rich and fertile lands are planted with cassava, corn, rice, coconut and many other root crops makes the inhabitants self sufficient of food supplies. This area in the farthest southern part of the Philippines is also known for its pearl fisheries, handicraft production, fishing and agricultural crops processing.
Jolo has numerous scenic, cultural and historical attractions to offer local and foreign tourists. Among the most visited is Jolo’s Walled City. Known to be the smallest in the world, this walled city is now crumbling due to age, decay and neglect but still a mute proof of Jolo’s history and an indication of the people’s continued discord. Constructed in 1876 by the Spanish, this walled city served as garrison of the Spaniards. The American Cavalry Monument is another tourist attraction that can be found in the BCP compound at the town center of Jolo. Aside from Quezon beach, the Tandu, Tanjung and Maubo beaches would certainly captivate the sun and water sports fans.
The bountiful natural resources, strategic position together with the skills and capability of the people should make the Province of Jolo the center of trade and industry in Southern Philippines, but since cultural and political problems exists, some projects went into a halt or stand idle. In spite of the turmoil brought about by the clash of cultures, the local government of Jolo foresees of becoming a service system center of world class quality by upgrading and promoting education to enhance human resource and technology; by improving communication and transportation services which is necessary for trade and commerce and by enhancing health service and upgrading health facilities and most importantly by ensuring an efficient and effective government administration.