Philippine beaches

Why Boracay Is Closed for Tourism: Everything You Need to Know

September 10, 2018 By FAQ Leave a Comment

The Philippines has a lot to offer when it comes to the best travel destinations around the world. The island of Boracay, for instance, has been a popular travel spot for beach bums, party-lovers, and travelers who want to have fun under the sun.

However, recent announcements from the country’s president himself shocked local and international tourists who want to finally step on the white sand beaches and swim in the pristine waters of this paradise: Boracay has been closed for tourism because of the government’s plan for its rehabilitation. The official closure is expected to last six months from April 26.

This article will tell you everything that you need to know about the recent Boracay closure. Here are the most commonly asked questions about Boracay being closed to the public – and the answers to keep you informed.

1. What were the factors that led to the island’s temporary closure?

There are several factors that led to the island’s temporary closure. Some have been observed for years while others have only been recently discovered after the government finally put their focus on the island destination. Here they are.

Too many annual visitors

While many people found the Boracay closure both shocking and sad, others claim that they actually saw it coming. The island-paradise gets millions of visitors every year and this small little town couldn’t really keep up with the growing numbers of tourists and travelers from all over the world.

Illegal building on protected lands

Several hotels and other types of accommodations have been built on the island. While some of these establishments followed the local environmental laws, experts found out that half of all the famous buildings on the island were actually built on recognized protected lands.

Environmental Issues

The popularity of Boracay boosted the local economy and benefited small and big business, but the environment was the only one taking all the bad effects of over-tourism – and this is one of the primary reasons why the national government mandated the temporary closure of the island.

Ill-managed sewerage system

Boracay’s infrastructure was not able to keep up with the demands of millions of yearly visitors, especially when it comes to the island’s sewerage system. According to reports, the entire network was ill-managed, and several waste materials were found out to have been dispersed directly to the beach water – a perfect scenario that has dramatically contributed to the growth of harmful coliform bacteria and other types of algal growth.

Overall waste disposal management

Even with the sewage treatment as well as the solid waste disposal system available on the island, there is still a majority of hotels and residential homes that do not benefit from this infrastructure.

Moreover, the solid waste problem has increased dramatically in the island, especially during peak season. According to the reports, the entire island produces an average of 90-115 tonnes of solid waste every day, and there are only 30 tonnes that make it to the nearby island’s landfill.

2. How long do tourists have to wait for Boracay’s reopening?

The early announcements by President Rodrigo Duterte stated that the closure for the purposes of rehabilitation should last for a maximum of six months. The plan was implemented on the 26^th day of April, but recent reports suggest it might take more than that. Nonetheless, investors are positive that it might be sooner than promised.

However, as the local government focused on efforts to rehabilitate the island, more problems and issues started to emerge.

3. As soon as Boracay reopens, what changes should the public expect?

When Boracay finally reopens, locals and foreign tourists should expect several changes not only in infrastructure but also in the policies that will be implemented on the island.

Limits of guest and visitors

After Boracay finally reopens, the local government may have to impose limitations on the number of tourists that visit the island. While this is still not official, many environmental advocates, as well as the Tourism Department, think that doing so is very crucial to the full recovery of the island.

Better Infrastructure

Because of the current problems with the sewerage system and the challenges of better waste management, locals and tourists should expect that these will be the primary focus for rehabilitation and improvement in infrastructure. For starters, pipes that illegally dispose waste into the sea will be removed, preventing harmful algal bloom and reducing the formation of Coliform bacteria in the island’s waters.

Roads will be also wider, especially specific road systems that run from the northern to the southern part of the island. Additionally, the government plans on building a new circumferential road and complete it before reopening the island to tourism.

Relatively higher rates

There is a big possibility that rates for accommodations, goods, and services in Boracay might increase. According to several tourism officials, making Boracay more expensive will not only lessen the visitors and guests of the island, it will also reduce the demand of the island’s resources.

4. How did the closure affect the country’s economy?

Revenues from tourism are one of the biggest in the country, and the closure of Boracay has undoubtedly affected the Philippine economy. According to analysts, over PHP 1.9 billion will be lost from the expected 6-month Boracay rehabilitation.

5. Conclusion

Boracay’s temporary closure may have affected the business and tourism sectors of the island, but the government believes that it was a sacrifice that they must take so that the next generation can still experience the true beauty of this island paradise.

Emerging Beach Destination in the Philippines: Sila Island, Northern Samar

April 16, 2018 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Many Filipino beach lovers always look forward to the Philippine summer season because aside from the fact that gloomy rainy days are over, they can finally realize their highly anticipated travel goals to their most favorite island destinations.

Indeed, summer in the Philippines is the most awaited time of the year for these sun-worshippers and several known places often come to mind when asked about their ideal beach destinations: Boracay, Palawan, Puerto Galera, and many more.

While there are popular destinations in the country for beach fun and underwater adventures, did you know that there are also several emerging beach destinations that you can add to your bucket list? Here’s one of the top picks for you.

Sila Island, aka “Pink Beach”

While Boracay and Palawan attract millions of tourists each year because of their fine white sand and clear blue waters, Sila Island holds its own charm and uniqueness – it’s one of the few places in the country where you can experience a magical shoreline which sands shimmer in a pinkish hue.

Aptly nicknamed the “pink beach” by locals and travelers alike, this amazing destination is still untouched by the damaging effects of over-commercialization. For this reason alone, it’s a perfect choice for your next summer adventure especially if you want to experience the humble perfection of this emerging island paradise.

Trivia: How did Sila Island’s powdery sand get its color?

The pinkish hue of the island’s sands comes from the natural colors of coral and shell fragments. These finely pulverized materials, through thousands of years of process, have been mixed with the originally white-colored sand of the island’s shores. During mid-day when the sun is at its hottest and brightest, the beach reveals another more saturated reddish shade.

Location: San Vicente, Northern Samar

Sila Beach is located in Northern Samar on the eastern portion of the island-town, San Vicente. Northern Samar is one of the provinces in the Eastern part of the Visayas.

How to get there

By Plane

Manila-Catarman

Catarman has one small semi-active airport (the nearest to Sila Island) that caters to one airline company, Philippine Airlines. There are also chartered jets available from Cebu, Davao, and Manila.

However, flying directly to Catarman from Manila is not a practical option for budget travelers especially if they don’t want to spend too much on plane tickets alone.

From Catarman, you have to take another van service to reach Calbayog, the nearest city to San Isidro, the jump-off point to San Vicente.

Alternate route: Manila-Tacloban

Tacloban’s airport offers cheaper ticket prices and serves three major airline companies: Cebu Pacific Air, Air Asia, and Philippine Airlines.

From Tacloban, there are vans going directly to Calbayog, Northern Samar with an estimated travel time of 4-5 hours with a fare of 25o PHP – 300 PHP).

Upon arriving at Calbayog City, take another van to San Isidro where you can find boats going to San Vicente.

Boats going to San Vicente leaves at 7a.m. and 2 p.m. (trip schedules may change so plan accordingly) every day from Monday to Saturday (fare is at 100 PHP). Of course, schedules will depend on the weather.

Land and Sea Travel

Manila-Sorsogon-Sila Island route

From Manila, land trips and sea travels going to Sila Island in San Vicente offer more affordable options. There are bus companies which routes can take you to Bulan, Sorsogon (fares for air-conditioned buses may vary, but it usually starts at 400 PHP – 1,000 PHP).

Upon arriving in Bulan, Sorsogon, you can either walk or take a local ride to the town’s port. From the port, you can hire private boat services to take you to Sila Island. This is an option for group travel, especially if you want to explore two popular Philippine destinations at the same time, Sorsogon, and Northern Samar. Prices are negotiable and will be based on the terms that you’ve agreed with the boatman.

Manila-Calbayog route

Direct bus companies offer trips from Manila to Calbayog, the nearest Northern Samar town to San Vicente Northern, Samar, the jump-off point to Sila Island. For more details and ticket prices, you may visit this useful link here.

Boat rides to San Vicente from Calbayog can take up to 45 minutes. As mentioned above, boat fare costs 100 PHP per person.

Sights and Activities

Sila Island is lined with sturdy red and black rock formations that add allure to the paradise’s pink shorelines. While the facilities on this island are limited, it can be a haven for free divers and snorkelers alike. Beach bums can also enjoy a relaxing day under the sun.

Things to keep in mind

Since Sila Island is not an established island-resort, they don’t have similar accommodations that you can find in other PH beaches. Instead, they have bamboo kiosks for a comfortable day at the beach for groups.
Camping out is an option if you want to spend the night on the island as long as you observe cleanliness – and it means leaving no trash behind.
Pink island locals have built toilets for the day and overnight travelers so you don’t have to worry about this aspect of remote-island adventuring.
It’s advisable to bring your own food and refreshments from the nearest city since there are no stores and commercial buildings near the beach.

While it can be an unforgettable adventure to be one of the first travelers who can set foot on this paradise, it’s important to remember these three things: travel responsibly, respect the culture and the beliefs of the locals, and most importantly, have fun.

10 Most Beautiful Beach in Philippines

November 13, 2017 By FAQ Leave a Comment

Blessed with more than seven thousand islands, the Philippines is one of the top leisure destinations in Asia. It has got quite a lot of white, sandy beaches with crystal clear water. However, to make it easier for you to choose, the top ten are already picked!

1. Boracay, Aklan

Boracay is a small island in Northern Panay island. Having been awarded and noted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world with its one-of-a-kind 5 km white sand, this beach is a magnet for tourists. Thanks to the world wide recognition and exposure from online tourism giants like Tripadvisor and Yahoo, a lot of foreigners from the Western countries enjoy their leisure here. Equipped with diving spots and facilities, bars, clubs, spas, hotels, resorts and restaurants, this island is perfect for both romantic and adventurous getaways.

Travel + Leisure magazine ranked Boracay 3rd best island in the world for 2017 alongside Palawan (also Philippines) and other world-famous islands like Santorini in Greece, Maui (Hawaii), Bali (Indonesia) and Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.

When to Visit: The best time to visit is from November to May. The temperature during this time ranges between 25 degrees and 32 degrees Celsius.

How to Get There: The fastest (and the most expensive) way to travel is from Manila to Caticlan airport. Then, you need to take a vehicle to Caticlan Jetty port for the 10-20 minute boat ride to Boracay.

2. Coron, Palawan

Coron is both the name of an island off the coast of Busuanga and the name of Busuanga’s largest town. It is one of the beaches that stun their visitors with its breathtaking views. Many who have visited this beach tend to find the place fiction-like. It is in the form of a lagoon with clear, blue water, rocky mountains and beautiful coral reefs. Enriched with some historical value with the Japanese shipwrecks from the World War II under its water, this beach has been nominated in The World’s Top Ten Scuba Diving Sites by Forbes Traveler Magazine.

When to Visit: The Dry Season runs from December to mid-June. Coolest months are from December to February. On average hovering in the 30 degree celsius range plus humidity.

How to Get There: Flying is the easiest and fastest way to reach Busuanga Airport from Manila then take a van to Coron town (takes about 45 minutes).

3. El Nido, Palawan

Located in Palawan, just like Coron, the beach offers clear water, white sand and astonishing view. The added benefit of visiting the beach is enjoying nature and wildlife through its beautiful forests. El Nido in Palawan is ranked No. 14 among the CNN’s Top 100 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World.

When to Visit: The best time to visit is December through March because the weather is nice and dry.

How to Get There: Most tourists coming to El Nido land on Palawan island in Puerto Princesa International Airport, though a direct flight from Manila. The journey usually continues with a van direct from Puerto Princesa airport up to El Nido bus terminal.

4. Panglao Island, Bohol

The beach is on Panglao Island. Its beauty has earned the place a cute nickname the little paradise of pure hearts. The tourism spot is suitable for those who fancy relaxation and taking a stroll along the shore.

When to Visit: The dry, cool season between December and March is the perfect time to go.

How to Get There: The easiest way to reach Bohol is via Cebu, where there are ferries heading to the direction every day.

5. Siargao Island

Despite the tear like shape of the island, the place is best known for its beach and waves. In between August and November, they can reach as high as twenty feet. The blue water beautifies the surfing spot. No wonder, several prestigious surfing events, like the 2017 International Women’s Surfing Cup, Cloud 9 Surfing Cup, and Surfista Surf Camps have been conducted there. Furthermore, the island has the largest mangrove forest in Mindanao which is a source of rich marine biodiversity.

When to Visit: For those who plan to go surfing, the best months would be August to November.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to get to Siargao to take a flight from Manila or Cebu city to Sayak Airport, Siargao.

6. Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Although the beach has been compared to Hawaii due to its magnificent blue water and the seemingly endless white sand, it is not so crowded yet. It may be the result of its location on the northern part of the Philippines’ main island, Luzon, with not-so-accessible route. However, for that reason, the beach is perfect for intimate and relaxing getaways.

When to Visit: From December to March is the best time to go to Pagudpud to head out to the calmest waters, and bluest skies hands down.

How to Get There: You can fly from Manila into Laog City in Ilocos Norte and then hire a bus or a car from there.

7. Bantayan Island

The island, which is located in the northern part of Cebu, offers not only a fun and adventurous holiday, but also a theurapetic one. Those seeking fun and adrenaline rush can enjoy cool sandbars and various thrilling activities, like skydiving, while the gentle waves, warm breeze, and soft white sand create peaceful atmosphere in the area.

When to Visit: Best month to visit is from January to June.

How to Get There: Most tourists go here via Cebu City, where one can take a bus to Hagnaya Port and a ferry to Bantayan Islans.

8. Camiguin Island

Those looking for a tourism spot that has more to offer than a plain beach may find this place suitable for their taste. This island indeed has a unique topography with its pear-like shape. Camiguin has more volcanoes per square kilometre than any other island on earth. Therefore, tourists coming to the place are also spoiled with mountainous terrains other than the beach itself. Some who have been mesmerized by its beauty have even referred to the place as the Garden of Eden. In addition, there is the Cross at the Sunken Cemetary that many have found intriguing.

When to Visit: If you get the chance, visit Camiguin during the Lanzones Festival, which is celebrated on the third week of October.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to Camiguin is obviously a plane trip from Cebu to to Camiguin Airport (Mambajao, Camiguin).

9. Dakak Park Beach Resort

Tourism business seems to have grown in this place. Here, there are a lot of resorts and hotels to choose. Those who enjoy the combination of luxury and beauty of the nature are likely to have a great time in this tourism destination.

How to Get There: Dakak Beach Resort is a 30-minute drive from Dipolog City and Dipolog Airport.

10. Mactan Island

Mactan Island which is located in Cebu is home to 430,000 people. It is the most densely populated island in the Philippines and has many tourists spots and attractions. There are also numerous water sports activities, like jet skiing, sailing, para-sailing.

When to Visit: From January to May are the driest months, and you should expect rain the rest of the year.

How to Get There: You can fly or take a boat to Mactan. Mactan Island is also connected by two bridges to Cebu city.

For additional information, while it may be easy to reach some of the top ten beaches (like Dakak Park, Boracay, El Nido, Siargao in Surigao, and Puerto Princesa) by air via direct flights, the other places are likely to require you to combine a flight and land or sea transportations (the popular ones are ferries). Nonetheless, most tourists find the tiring journeys worthwhile.

How to Go to Kalanggaman Island in Palompon Leyte?

April 2, 2015 By Victorino Q. Abrugar 285 Comments

The long white sandbar of Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte.

Kalanggaman Island is truly a paradise for beach lovers. I’ve been there twice. My latest visit was just last week (March 30-31, 2015). You can check out some of the enchanting photos of Kalanggaman island, its long white sandbar and its clear waters in my previous post (you can also read some useful tips before going to Kalanggaman Island in that article). For everyone who wants to experience the island’s charm and beauty this summer or anytime of the year, here’s how you can go and visit Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte. [Read more…]

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Tacloban and Leyte in 2015

September 20, 2014 By Victorino Q. Abrugar 32 Comments

Tacloban City continues to rise again after Haiyan struck the city in November 2013.

Tacloban City was severely damaged by super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) on November 8, 2013. I even learned that some foreigners believe Tacloban was totally washed out by the deadly storm surge. So when I published some pictures of the different parts of the city seven months after the typhoon, they couldn’t believe that Tacloban was still there and Taclobanons were already starting to live a normal life.

I knew that the nightmares brought by Haiyan still remain on people’s minds, whether they experienced the onslaught at first hand or they just saw it on TV and read it on social media. However, bad dreams are from the past, and today, Tacloban is already rising again despite of the many issues of corruption in the government (which is not surprising in the Philippines).

With the aid from International communities, the public service of our government, the support of Filipinos from the other parts of the Philippines, and the buoyancy of the Yolanda survivors, Tacloban City is now once again a place where every tourist should visit. The city and its neighboring towns have many great things to offer for tourists, adventurists, storytellers, volunteers, and more.

If you’re planning for a wonderful travel and tour in 2015, here are 10 reasons why you should put Tacloban City in your bucket list.

Pope Francis during The Canonization of Saint John XXIII and Saint John Paul II in Vatican. Photo by Jeffrey Bruno.

1. Witness the Papal visit (January).
Pope Francis will visit the Yolanda survivors in Leyte on January 17 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. As part of his itinerary, the Pope will hold an open-air Mass at Tacloban airport starting at 10 a.m. Then he will proceed to the archbishop’s residence in Palo to dine with the poor.

It is said that most, if not all, hotels in Tacloban are now already fully booked for the scheduled visit of the Pope, and the authorities are now asking boarding house owners to accommodate the expected visitors. So if you’re a Catholic devotee, make sure you’re already fully prepared to visit Tacloban on the said date.

The Sangyaw Pasasalamat parade on June 29, 2014.

2. Enjoy the grand fiesta and festivals (June).
Tacloban doesn’t only celebrate its fiesta (Sto. Niño de Leyte Fiesta: June 30) in a single day, but Taclobanons and their visitors enjoy several events related to it throughout the month of June. During these days, the city becomes livelier. The parks are turned into dining spots where you can enjoy the live performances from various artists and rock bands.

Many tourists also flock to the city to witness the colorful festivals. A day or a few days before the grand fiesta, tourists can enjoy two festivals, namely the Sangyaw Festival (the city’s own festival) and the Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival of Festivals (the festival organized by the province of Leyte). Delegates from other famous Philippine festivals like the Maskara Festival of Bacolod, the Sinulog Festival of Cebu and the Buyogan Festival of Abuyog also participate and perform during the Festival of Festivals to make the event more spectacular.

The San Juanico Bridge in Leyte and Samar as of August 2014.

3. Dare to cross the longest bridge in the Philippines.
With a length of 2.16 kilometers (1.34 mi), the San Juanico Bridge is the longest bridge in the Philippines that connects two islands, the islands of Samar and Leyte. From Tacloban downtown, you can reach the bridge in 10-15 minutes by bus, passenger jeepney, multicab or private vehicle.

See the beauty of San Juanico bridge and the breathtaking scenery of the islets and whirlpools of San Juanico Strait, one of the narrowest straits in the world. Dare to walk the bridge from end to end and experience the vibration when a bus or truck passes by. The bridge has a lane for walkers, joggers or runners on both sides. Thus, you don’t have to worry about the speedy vehicles crossing the bridge. But still take extra care when taking a selfie and try to be there in the morning or afternoon when the heat of the sun is not excruciating.

The monuments in MacArthur Landing Memorial Park as of August 2014.

4. Reminisce one of the greatest naval battles in History (October).
Visit MacArthur Landing Memorial Park in the nearby town of Palo to recall one of the most important battles of all time and the famous words of General Douglas MacArthur, “I shall return”. The Battle of Leyte Gulf (October 23–26, 1944 ) is generally considered to be the largest naval battle of World War II and the largest naval battle in history in terms of tonnage of the ships engaged.

The monuments of General Douglas MacArthur, President Sergio Osmeña, Brigadier General Carlos P. Romulo and other men mark the spot where they landed with the American Liberation Forces in October 1944 to begin the Battle of Leyte Gulf and liberate the Philippines from the Japanese invasion. The memorial is not only one of the most famous in country but also in the world as it symbolizes the beginning of the end of World War II.

Leyteños and veterans all over the world celebrate Leyte Landing Anniversary every October 20. The government of Leyte also organize various events within this month. These long-month activities include the reenactment of the Leyte Gulf Landing, awarding of living Veterans, Japanese Veterans memorial ceremonies, and other commemorative programs. There’s also a marathon or fun run held in this period. So if you want to get the most out of the Leyte Landing Anniversary, you may want to visit Palo in October. But you can always visit the monuments and the memorial park anytime.

The facade of Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum along Real Street Tacloban City as of August 2014.

5. Behold what’s inside the Sto. Nino Shrine and Heritage Museum.
This mansion along Real Street Tacloban City is one of the presidential mansions of the late president Ferdinand Marcos that was built for his wife Imelda Romualdez Marcos during his regime. Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) caused some damages to the shrine but the grandeur of the mansion can still be seen inside. The shrine has already reopened for visitors after Yolanda.

For an entrance fee of PHP 230 (good for 3 tourists inclusive of a camera fee), you and your companions can already explore the mansion and listen to the stories about the Marcoses and Romualdez from the guide who will also let you see the different rooms, the grand ballroom, expensive furniture, antiques and other collections of the Marcos family.

St. Michael the Archangel Church in Basey, Samar. Picture taken in August 2014.

6. Take a side trip to a 17th-century church in the neighboring town of Basey.
Around 12 kilometers from the Samar side of San Juanico Bridge (see # 3) is the town of Basey. Basey (pronounced by the locals as Basay or Basai) is known for its famous Sohoton caves and handwoven mat called Banig. In this town, you will also find St. Michael the Archangel Church, a Roman Catholic church constructed in the 17th century.

The church is located on the top of the hill and served as a watchtower during the Spanish era. Its location saved it from the storm surge of Yolanda. And that is why you will see it still standing there.

The stunning beauty of Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte.

7. Visit the beautiful beaches of Eastern Visayas.
Eastern Visayas or Region VIII has many stunning beaches and islands to offer. Region VIII is composed of the provinces of Leyte, Southern Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar and Biliran. As the center of Eastern Visayas, Tacloban City will give you access to several white-sand beaches of the region to make your vacation more fun and memorable.

You and your buddies can enjoy the white sand shores of Kalangaman Island in Palompon Leyte, Digyo Island and the Quatro Islas in Inopacan Leyte, Sambawan Island in Biliran, and many other hidden gems in Region VIII.

The sweet and famous Binagol of Leyte.

8. Try the food and specialties of Leyte.
Taste the special delicacies that you can only find in Leyte. Try the sweet Binagol (a delicacy originated from Dagami Leyte which is made from sweetened mashed giant taro called talian packed in a half coconut shell called bagol) or the Suman Moron (a milk and chocolate flavored sticky rice cake or suman twisted and wrapped in banana leaves). You can also buy these native delicacies along Zamora Street in Tacloban City for your pasalubong or gifts to your loved ones back at home.

The Robinsons Place Tacloban in Marasbaras is currently the largest mall in the region. The mall has fully reopened since June 2014.

9. See how the city rises again after Yolanda.
Tacloban has already improved a lot since Yolanda struck the city in November 2013. Malls, supermarkets, banks, and other establishments are already back to business. You can already shop, dine and watch movies in cinemas at Robinsons Place in Marasbaras Tacloban. There are also several hotels, restaurants, coffee shops and bars where you can stay, dine, hangout, and enjoy a nightlife in the city. The rehabilitation efforts and improvements in the city will continue. In 2015 and in the years to come, expect a better and a more developed Tacloban City.

The children of homeless Haiyan Survivors still living in tents in Old Road Sagkahan, Tacloban City.

10. Continue helping the poor survivors.
You can do this one without waiting for the year 2015 to come. Although many Yolanda survivors are already living a normal life, thousands of other survivors are still living in tents and temporary bunk houses. One of the greatest reasons you can have to visit Tacloban is to help and donate to these homeless survivors directly. By helping them personally, you can be assured that your kindness will be received by them straightforwardly.

There are many other reasons why you should include Tacloban City in your list of next top destinations. And if you will get to know more about the city and the whole region, you’ll discover more fascinating wonders of nature, interesting stories from the people, and hundred more reasons to return. So what are you waiting for? Make sure you already have an itinerary for your travel to Tacloban City and the rest of Eastern Visayas.