Pinoys prioritize hygiene over food during emergencies

By Tiziana Celine Piatos, Manila Times

September 27, 2022

FILIPINOS are more likely to buy personal care and hygiene products than food during disasters or emergencies, a study showed.

A research on Filipino shopping habits conducted by Packworks Sari IQ and which it shared with The Manila Times on Monday showed that 18 percent of the sales of sari-sari or small convenience stores is made up of hair care products.

Laundry supplies were the second most popular items, with 16 percent of sales.

Other purchases, which include oral care, body care, beverages and canned goods, came in third with 15 percent.

Breakfast items like tea, coffee and creamer came in fourth with 14 percent.

Cooking necessities followed at 13 percent, oats and cereals at 13 percent, and pasta and noodles at 11 percent.

Packworks Sari IQ said the research covered purchases in sari-sari stores in areas affected by the earthquake in Abra last June, the eruption of Taal Volcano in Batangas in March, and Typhoon "Odette" in Leyte in December 2021.

When the Abra earthquake struck, the volume of products in the hair care category spiked by more than 50 percent of sales during normal days.

During the Taal upheavals, sales of hair care products went up by more than 50 percent.

The purchasing priorities were different after Odette devastated Leyte. During that calamity, the sale of noodles and other cooking necessities soared by over 60 percent.

In normal times, hair care products come in last in terms of average consumer spending, second behind pasta and noodles at 15 percent.

"The Philippines is a regular target of natural disasters because of its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire. Residents at the epicenter opt to buy their immediate necessities from a nearby sari-sari store rather than go to big supermarkets," said Andres Montiel, Packworks' head of Data.

Montiel said it is highly helpful in tracking what items are considered as essential by consumers during natural disasters.

"This can be helpful in demand planning and product seasonality on the brand principal's end," he added.

Drastic steps pushed vs food, energy crunch

By Ma. Reina Leanne Tolentino

 and Eireene Jairee Gomez

President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said over the weekend that boosting the agriculture sector would ensure food security in the country.File Photo

President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said over the weekend that boosting the agriculture sector would ensure food security in the country.File Photo

THERE is an urgent need for the incoming administration of President-elect Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. to consider drastic measures that would ease the adverse effects of a looming food and energy crises in the country brought about by global environmental and health woes and the war in Ukraine.

Albay Second District Rep. Jose Ma. Clemente "Joey" Salceda said that fighting inflation and keeping food affordable should be the immediate economic priorities of the incoming administration.

"It's the most pro-poor policy the new president can take on his first few days in office," Salceda said.

The lawmaker, who has been reelected, said "I am also recommending a package of bills..."

"Apart from funding provisions and provisions allowing the President to redirect some unused appropriations and resources, I am also proposing that we enact a package of anti-inflationary measures, such as anti-price gouging in the food and fuel sectors, price unbundling for fuel, some key tariff removals for imported farm inputs such as fertilizers and equipment, and boosting the production of domestic energy sources such as coal, until we can overcome this global price problem," Salceda said.

   

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said on Tuesday that headline inflation in the country increased further to 5.4 percent in May 2022 from 4.9 percent in April 2022.

Marcos said over the weekend that boosting the agriculture sector would ensure food security in the country.

Energy Undersecretary Benito Ranque said one of the viable solutions which should go hand in hand with other energy measures is the use of modular nuclear reactors for deployment to island provinces suffering weeks of darkness and economic standstill in the aftermath of strong weather disturbances.

Why Russia's war on Ukraine poses a risk to global food security

Taking cue from the use of modular or mobile nuclear power reactors in the United States and China, Ranque said that he is inclined to believe that it is perfectly safe to adopt such — but with caution and strict supervision of whoever the Philippine government secures a contract with to provide what he deemed as extremely necessary "if only to ease the impact of an energy shortage in 2023, as predicted by no less than former Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla."

When asked as to what could have triggered an imminent energy crisis, Ranque admitted that the government has failed to facilitate the establishment of sufficient power plants in anticipation of the rapidly growing number of electricity users.

"Let's be candid about this one. The government wasn't able to push for building sufficient power generating facilities for the last 20 years. During these years, the population rapidly increased, which means more people are using the same buffer supply we had back in 2002."

Citing the compact size of the modular nuclear reactors, Ranque said that these facilities could easily be transported anywhere — with high emphasis to places frequently suffering from power outages in view of extreme weather disturbances.

Expert sees no need to cut fuel taxes

Moreover, Ranque said that each modular nuclear reactor has the capacity to produce more than enough electricity to light up an entire island like Cebu, Bohol, Negros, Samar, Leyte and other island provinces, which had suffered months living without electricity because the typhoons destroyed power grids in those areas.

Sought for safety assurance, Ranque said he would prefer to forge a contract which would include two essential provisions ─ one is for the supplier of the modular nuclear reactors to administer its use and number two, for the same supplier to find a place outside the country where they would dump or process nuclear wastes.

"They have the technology in disposing or handling the nuclear waste so it is best for us to include that provision in the contract," he noted.

UN: Food crises loom

Ranque, however, stressed that while the government is dealing with the immediate energy concerns, it is still most advisable to empower small electricity cooperatives in the countryside by helping them acquire its own renewable power plants while simultaneously working on the "underground cabling," prioritizing typhoon prone areas to allow uninterrupted power supply by the distribution utilities such as electric cooperatives.

The United Nations on Tuesday warned about multiple, looming food crises on the planet, driven by climate "shocks" like drought and worsened by the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine that have sent fuel and food prices soaring.

How would you describe the life in the early Filipino settlements in terms of food?

Josh

World History and Economics Professor | M.A

Pigs, Chicken, Goat, Bananas, Coconut, big fish

According to Antonio Pigafetta, who was Ferdinand Magellan's secretary and accountant, who also wrote a book about the business expedition, the indios would consistently sell pigs, chickens, goat, bananas, coconut and at times big fish to the Europeans. Do note that the indios were described by Pigafetta as skilled merchants and good bargainers. This means that the indios would have known better to sell the visiting ships for fish, something the sailors would have been eating during the voyage. The Indios were assertive in selling pigs, chicken, banas, coconuts. The method of cookery continues to be studied by scholars but one dish Pigafetta mentioned was “Pork in it's gravy".

The early Filipino settlements would have used the same produce. The indios would have kept eating the same food while Spanish settlers would have brought with them methods of cookery from Europe BUT using what is locally available -pigs, chicken, goat, banana, coconut. As such, the Pochero might have been invented by the settlers as it used Spanish cooking methods of garlic and onions but with bananas that do not exist in Spain. Or it could have been a dish from the Americas as they have bananas plus Pochero is made with tomatoes, which only exist in the Americas. Many dishes developed from Spanish ideas, such as the Longanisa developing from Chorizo, Kinilaw from Ceviche, Bulalo from Osso Bucco, Sinigang from Basque Fisherman's Soup, etc.

Trade between Mexico and Philippines would have been established so tomatoes, potatoes, corn and many Mexixan produce would have been introduced.

Note that culinary did not exist prior to 1900s when Auguste Escoffier formalised cookery. Although Culinarians trace the origin of cookery to 1400s to the Medici Queen who brought her cooks to France, dishes did not develop yet to fine dining. In the prehispánic society, Pigafetta did not observe that the indios named their dishes. By 1800s however, dishes in the Philippines had names.

Without refrigeration, animals would have been kept as long as possible before eating. In prehispánic days, Pigafetta noted that the households had pigs but did not seem to touch them, Pigafetta theorised that they were taxes for the Rajah because the palace had nightly banquets of pork. Chicken grew fast and in abundance so the households would have eaten chicken more often than pig. Pigafetta also noted that every household had a vegetable garden. My theory is that the song “Bahay Kubo" is prehispanic in origin or perhaps written in early Filipino settlement days due to the heavy use of banjos or guitar.

For sure, prehispánic society to early Filipino settlements ate a lot of vegetables. Lack of refrigeration was a factor. The Adobo also exist in other Spanish colonies in Americas and in Spain maybe. However, they differ in ingredients based on what is locally available. In Mexico, their Adobo uses paprika and chili while in Philippines is soy sauce. Adobo in all colonies and Spain uses vinegar. As such, it is yet to be known if Adobo is a colonial introduction. Filipino Adobo has no cousin in other Southeast Asian countries. It is however similar in taste to Taiwanese braised beef. In most probability, Adobo is a method of preserving food and would have been a European introduction. The winters of Europe forced them to preserve meats for the winters such as smoked ham, air dried ham, sausage, and even anchovies. In the tropical Philippines, food was abundant all year round, thus food preservation unnecessary.

Eventually, Philippines imported Spanish wines, olives, chorizo, etc.

Why is adobo popular in the Philippines?

Mark Kemkemian

Medical Scientist at NSW Department of Health, Australia.

Adobo is not just a dish, it is a cooking method which uses a lot of souring agents to prevent meats from spoiling or decaying.

It is a very popular preservation method here in the Philippines because our climate is hot, and foods that are prepared on the table can become spoiled easily.

That's why our ancestors would marinate certain types of meat, like chicken, carabao, fish, beef and many others in a concoction of onions, garlics, peppers, salt and vinegar, so that the food can be stored for several weeks before its consumption date.

Then came the Chinese traders who introduced the use of soy sauce, which was later added to the Adobo dish that caused the darkening of the meat and sauce color.

Adobo is just one of the food preservation techniques here in the Philippines.

Typisch Philippinisch (XXXI) - Typical Filipino (XXXI): Haben Sie schon gegessen? Kumain ka na ba?

"For Filipinos, feeding each other is a way we demonstrate love, and this particular way of eating, [is] a literal, tactile way of connecting with what nourishes us and the land it comes from," says Katherine Prince, an activist and organizer with the Portland, Oregon, chapter of GABRIELA, an organization for Filipina (Pinay) women. "To me, using my hands and seeing the banana leaves reminds me that even how we eat can be colonized, and my participation in this ancestral tradition is revolutionary in its own right.”

A mix of fried fish, longanisa, lumpia, pancit, and nilaga served with vinegar and onions, ketchup, banana ketchup, chopped tomatoes, and fresh mango over rice.

A mix of fried fish, longanisa, lumpia, pancit, and nilaga served with vinegar and onions, ketchup, banana ketchup, chopped tomatoes, and fresh mango over rice. 

The term kamayan can be used to describe the act of eating by hand, but a traditional kamayan meal is a feast served family style, usually over banana leaves. There’s no limit to what you can eat when hosting your own kamayan, but in general, grilled and fried things with rice are easier to eat sans utensils, because they aren’t as messy as soups and stews (though that didn’t stop my mom from serving soup in bowls at our last kamayan, so anything’s fair game).

Essen ist ungemein wichig für die Gemütsverfassung eines Filipinos/einer Filipina. Es scheint, als sitze ihnen stets die Angst im Nacken, Hunger leiden zu müssen. Wohin man auch geht, wird für ausreichend Proviant gesorgt. Selbst unterwegs muß noch an einigen Läden oder Obstständen noch etwas dazugekauft werden.Es gibt kein Treffen von Filipinos , an denen nicht Essen aufgetragen wird. Es gehört zur üblichen Gastfreundschaft, Besuchern nicht nur Getränke sondern auch Speisen anzubieten. Die übliche philippinische Begrüßung lautet: "Haben Sie schon gegessen?" - "Kumanin ka na ba?"

Lugaw is the nation’s comfort food

 

by Cheshire Que

Manila Bulletin

Lugaw, a local porridge, is so common and simple that we take it for granted, until we fall ill. Can you recall the times you had the flu or bouts of diarrhea and all you could think of was eating lugaw? Oh, the instant comfort a humble bowl of hot rice boiled in water brings! What makes it so comforting?

Generally speaking, porridge is prepared by boiling grains in water or milk. Variations come depending on the country of origin. Porridge in western countries use oats and milk. In Asian countries, porridge is known as congee in China, okayu in Japan, jok in Thailand, juk in Korea, and lugaw in the Philippines. Arroz caldo is a more flavorful version brought by the added ginger, broth, garlic, and chicken. Porridge varies in terms of grain quality. For example, glutinous rice versus short-grain. The consistency of the broth and other ingredients used to flavor also differ. But they all boil down two things: to give nourishment and comfort.

Are there any health benefits to eating lugaw? Could it possibly possess healing properties? First, let us consider how a sick person feels. Loss of appetite is very common, next to dehydration and difficulty in digestion. This puts him or her at risk of dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and fatigue. Lugaw can provide easy to digest source of energy through the boiled rice, which is high in carbohydrates. The high water content of lugaw can add to the individuals total fluid intake in a day, thus helping prevent dehydration. 

Second, lugaw is a versatile bland dish that can be enhanced in many ways to add more nutrients and flavor. There are no rules set in cooking lugaw. Adding ginger will give multiple health benefits. It has antimicrobial properties that ward off germs, bacteria, and viruses. It’s anti-inflammatory effects aid in pain management, as well as fever. Ginger also calms nausea and indigestion. It helps control cholesterol and lowers blood glucose too.

Another ingredient common in lugaw is garlic. This close relative of onion and scallion has been used since ancient times to treat lung diseases, fever, high blood pressure, and stomach upset, which includes flatulence, indigestion, and colic.

Salt is a staple for lugaw. Caution, however, must be taken for individuals with high blood pressure and edema. Salt is not entirely bad. For someone experiencing diarrhea, salt will help improve electrolyte imbalance and prevent dehydration. Sprinkle some on your lugaw. 

Adding some flaked chicken or fish, egg, and other seafood will give high biologic value protein for immunity and prevention of muscle loss. For a plant based lugaw, lentils, beans, and soy products can be added as good sources of protein. 

You can also choose to make the humble dish fancier by trying on a sweeter and more sophisticated flavor instead of the usual savory one. Sprinkle some cinnamon powder, add cubed apple and banana slices, and drizzle some honey. 

Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant. It helps lower blood glucose, quell inflammation, especially for those experiencing arthritic pains. Honey is a potent natural cough suppressant. It is also a prebiotic, which promotes healthy gut microbiome or bacteria in the digestive system. Apple and banana have pectin, which is good for the stomach lining and heart health. Having some apples and bananas during bouts of diarrheal episodes will help form stool. 

Never underestimate the nutritional value of having lugaw, especially on sick days. Lugaw is essential.

cheshireque@gmail.com

20 Best Things to Do in the Philippines:

Explore Islands, Beaches, Festivals, Food and More

By Jessa Tek-Ing

Verified Expert

With over 7000 islands to explore and discover, the Philippines is packed with exciting activities and incredible tourist spots to explore. Find out what are the best and must-try things to do in the Philippines in this article and plan the ultimate bucket list itinerary. 

As a holiday destination, the Philippines boasts of unique experiences and exciting adventures wherever you go. Through the years, it has become known as one of the most popular tropical hideaways in the world - making it the go-to place for adventure seekers, food lovers, thrill chasers, and everyone who wishes to satisfy their wanderlust. 

The Philippines is divided into three island groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. From North to South, there’s so much to see and do around the country that fits whatever type of traveler you may be. It’s jampacked with diverse activities, unforgettable escapades, and even laid-back relaxing experiences that can truly spark your joy. 

From the world-renowned island paradise like Palawan and Boracay to Cebu’s rich history to Siargao’s magical island vibe and surfing oasis – the Philippines will never fail to amaze you. 

Photo by the Philippine Department of Tourism

Apart from its natural beauty, the locals' hospitality will make you fall in love more with this beautiful country. Filipinos are known for their friendliness and their ability to see light and humor in every situation – may it be good or bad. 

There’s an endless list of reasons to visit the Philippines. To make sure that you won’t find yourself saying “So many things to do, so little time”, here are some of the top activities that you should add to your itinerary:

20. Join Sightseeing Tours

You don't have to try extreme activities to enjoy the best of the Philippines. The country is filled with beautiful tourist spots that can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of age and physical condition.  All you need are your eyes to see why the Philippines is one of the favorite travel destinations of travelers.  

Make the most out of your escape by joining some of the country’s sightseeing tours. Hop in a van and do a countryside tour around the island of Bohol where you can see the Chocolate Hills, walk or bike around the Walled City of Intramuros in Manila, visit the old mansions of Bacolod, try strawberry picking in La Trinidad, Benguet, or marvel at the awe-inspiring rolling hills of Batanes. 

19. Visit Museums

With the Philippines’ rich heritage and culture, museums serve as a venue for people, young and old alike, to get in touch with the country’s history.

If you're in Manila, no need to travel far since there are a couple of museum tours worth checking out which includes Metropolitan Museum of Manila, The National Art Gallery at the National Museum of the Philippines, Calvo Museum and the Casa Manila Museum in Intramuros.

For those who would like to do a day trip, the well-known Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Bataan is another place where you’ll surely be transported back in time. 

Other must-visit museums outside the metro are Balay Negrense Museum in Silay, Negros Occidental, Palawan Special Battalion WW2 Memorial Museum, Museum Sugbo in Cebu and Davao Museum of History and Ethnography in Mindanao. 

18. Go on a Pilgrimage Tour

Religion is an integral part of every Filipino’s spiritual journey. For some, pilgrimage is part of a “panata” or vow for petitions or a way to give thanks for an answered prayer.

Pilgrims usually involve visiting several churches, basilicas, and shrines for they believe that the penance comes in the journey itself and that reaching the main church or destination would mean spiritual awakening and new beginning. 

Through the years, people from all walks of life has joined religious pilgrimages around the country’s miraculous churches and places.

Some famous pilgrimage destinations include St. John the Baptist Parish Church in Quiapo, Cebu’s Simala Shrine, Minor Basilica of the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary in Manaoag, San Pascual de Baylon Parish Church in Obando, Bulacan, Baclaran’s National Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Pink Sister’s Convent in Tagaytay.

17. Discover Wakeboarding

An activity that’s not known to many but has been gaining consistent popularity in the Philippines, wakeboarding tours have also started to become a go-to adventure to many. There are no age restrictions when it comes to learning this water sport if you know the basics of swimming. 

Camarines Sur is the wakeboarding capital of the Philippines due to the success of the 2009 WWA Ultimate Wakeboard Championships held at CamSur Water Sports Complex.

Lago de Oro in Batangas is also perfect for a quick getaway with family and friends since it’s just two-hour drive from Manila. Like Batangas, Republ1c Wakepark in Nuvali is also a great option for a weekender to enjoy wakeboarding. 

Last but not least is DECA Wakeboard Park which is dubbed as the largest wakeboarding park in Southeast Asia and is just a 30-minute drive away from Davao City International Airport.

16. Explore Nature at National Parks

Among all other outdoor activities, the Philippines is also a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its innumerable national parks, there’s plenty of spots to explore and discover.

Ranking high on the list is a tour to Hundred Islands National Park which is perfect for family outing and nature tripping as you marvel at the exquisite beauty of more than a hundred mushroom-like islands in front of you.

Another crowd favorite is the Caramoan Peninsula National Park with its serene view of white sand beaches, sparkling rivers and magnificent limestones – a sure treat for all nature admirers out there.

Meanwhile, for those that enjoy wildlife spotting, a tour in Calauit Safari Park in Palawan is surely the experience to go. Apart from being home to hundreds of giraffes, the place also boasts of diverse flora and fauna for you to witness and truly appreciate.

15. Experience River Tubing

Get wet and wild! River tubing is surely set to give you a heart-pumping experience as you go through the rapids of the river by riding the interior of big tires or commonly referred to as the tube.

Somehow similar to water rafting, the main goal is to not fall off the tube until you’re able to conquer all the possible rapids before the main destination. 

Pangi River in New La Union and Maitum in Sarangani Province are where the water tubing action is. Check out river trips for a more complete experience.

14. Join Boat Tours or River Cruises

Puerto Princesa's Underground River or Subterranean River National Park has been granted the UNESCO World Heritage award due to its spectacular limestone and awe-inspiring landscape with an underground river. By joining boat tours, you get to see up close the longest navigable underground river in the world.

Likewise, Ihawig River in Puerto Princesa offers an enthralling river cruise experience at night. Imagine staring at the beauty of the night sky and breathing in the cold breeze as you cruise. If that’s not enough to melt your heart, you’ll also be treated with a magical light show of fireflies that look like dancing stars.

13. Caving and Spelunking

Enchanting, captivating, and exciting – just some of the words that come to mind to best describe the experience in some of the Philippines must-visit caving tour sites.

Samar is known to be the Caving Capital of the Philippines as it houses the Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge Park which features picturesque caves, subterranean rivers, and limestone formations.

On the other hand, a tour in Callao Cave which is located in the province of Cagayan offers 300 cave systems that will let you see the grand attraction of huge limestones and rock formations. Hinagdanan Cave tours in Bohol will also reward you with unexplored beauty as remarkable stalagmites and the cave’s striking beauty welcome you upon entering the site.

12. Relax in Natural Hot Springs

Photo by the Philippine Department of Tourism

If you want to tweak your next holiday trip and skip the beach, why not try some of the country’s hot and cold springs tours.

Located in Camiguin, Ardent Hot Spring has been a main tourist attraction in the area as it is also found on the foot of Mt. Hibok-Hibok, an active volcano that supplies the hot spring water.

Another one at the top of the list is Maquinit Hot Springs tour in Coron which is one of the few saltwater hot springs in the entire world.

The Puning Hot Springs tour in Pampanga is also a crowd favorite. It has a total of eight pools of hot water ranging from 40 degrees and up which is downright soothing especially after a whole day of adventure. 

Known to also be therapeutic, these places are also good venues if you’re looking for a trip that’s equal parts adventure and rejuvenation.

11. Try 4x4 ATV Rides

This activity will definitely take your adventure junkie self a notch. This isn’t your typical boring theme park ride because ATV tours take you off the beaten path.

A trip to Mt. Balabag will transport you into an instant action scene. Due to its wide and nearly flat trail, it’s possible for you to take your 4x4 truck all the way to the summit and submerge it in the water as you cross the rivers. 

An off-road 4x4 ride to Puning Hot Springs in Angeles, Pampanga should also be on every explorer’s bucket list. Imagine passing through rocks, mountains, and running over the puddles of water with a gorgeous view to excite your senses more.

You will be amazed knowing that this natural creation was formed after the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo.

10. Try Canyoneering

For adrenaline junkies who want to try something different, canyoneering or canyoning is surely making waves. If you’re looking for an extra dose of outdoor fun and adventure where you get to enjoy the verdant, natural scenery, and test your limits, then you must try canyoneering tours.

A tour to Kawasan Falls in Cebu is the ultimate must-do for travelers who want to experience the thrill and excitement of canyoneering due to its stunningly clear waters and picturesque canyons.

Some of the other recommended places to explore are Mt. Isarog National Park in Camarines Sur, Bangon Falls in Samar, and Sampao River in Biliran.

9. Go Surfing and Ride the Best Waves

The Philippines' surfing spots have grown more and more popular in recent years. Cloud 9 tours in Siargao Island, without a shadow of doubt, has become one of the word’s sought-after surfing destinations and activity.

It has surf breaks and spots for different levels – whether you’re a newbie who wants to catch your first wave or a professional who wants to take your surfing skills to new heights. Not to mention that the island’s inexplicable charm has caught the attention of tourists all over the world. 

La Union and Baler may also ring a bell when it comes to surfing as they are more accessible if you’re living in Luzon.

Both have taken their spots in the hearts of the surfing community with their laidback island vibe, friendly locals and impressive waves that will surely leave you stoked for days.

8. Immerse in Historical and Heritage Tours

What better way for tourists to truly appreciate the beauty and magic of the Philippines than to immerse into its rich culture and heritage. Be transported back to the historical era of the country’s past and quest for freedom when you try heritage excursions.

Reading the Philippine’s history in books is good, but it’s so much better to relive it by visiting the actual historical spots where they all happened.

A trip to Corregidor will surely transport you back in time where the epic Battle of Corregidor took place during the last world war.

The Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras in Ifugao, the Historic Town of Vigan, San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Paoay Church in Ilocos Norte and Miag-ao Church in Iloilo will surely awaken your curiosity and fascination of the events that molded the country’s history.

7. Go Hiking in the Best Mountains

A holiday doesn’t always have to be all about the beach or pool. For thrill-seekers who are after action and adventures, Philippines has a little bit of everything for everyone. Beyond its numerous islands, the country is also gifted with varied terrains and impressive mountain ranges. 

Pack your bags, put on your hiking shoes and escape the bustling city by hiking in the Philippines. The Philippines is famed for a long list of breathtaking hiking trails, catering to all levels of difficulty.

Popular among amateur hikers is Mt. Batulao which is just a few hours from Metro Manila. If you want to unwind amongst wonderful, easy-to-access scenery then this is the perfect choice for you.

Hiking Tarak Ridge in Mariveles is a bit more challenging but will surely be worth it once you’re soaking up the great views of Bataan, Manila Bay, and its surrounding islands.

Last but not least is the famed Mt. Pulag which is the highest peak in Luzon. Being at the summit of Mt. Pulag, standing above a sea of clouds, is another mind-blowing experience.

If you’re lucky to see it during sunset, these clouds seem to catch fire in the afterglow – such an awe-inspiring view that’s marked in your mind forever.

6. Plunge into Majestic Waterfalls

More than the sun, sand and sea - there are also a lot of hidden gems in the form of waterfalls tucked in some of the country’s most famous tourist spots. Some may require a bit of hiking to reach but their unique charm and history will truly make the journey worth your while.

Natural beauties such as Kawasan Falls in Cebu, Ditumabo Falls (also known as Mother Falls) in Baler, Cambugahay Falls in Siquijor, and Aliwagwag Falls in Davao Oriental top the list of most sought-after attractions included in waterfalls tours. 

You will not just find yourself chasing them, you’ll surely fall for them too.

5. Diving and Snorkeling in Incredible Underwater Spots

There’s something magical about discovering the underwater world. It’s like experiencing a whole new part of the planet we live in. A place where you can co-exist with the living creatures of the ocean and where you are one with them.

With thousands of islands, the Philippines promises to spoil you with a lot of choices for your diving adventures. Mindoro ranks high as it has a huge variety of dive sites that offer the ideal dive for every skill level.

Coron offers a unique diving experience as it will not only amaze you with its natural beauty but will intrigue you with its wreck areas’ history. Some other must-visit for your under the sea escapades are Isla Verde in Batangas and Balicasag Island in Bohol.

4. Join Food Tours to Try Philippine Cuisine

Is your trip really complete without tasting the best local cuisines in the country? The Philippines has a lot of luscious and mouth-watering dishes that’s guaranteed to satiate your cravings and take your experience to the next level.

There’s no better way to experience the Philippines' gastronomic scene that to eat like a local. Fortunately, there are several food tours that offer you the chance to have a bite of history and the life from each of the regions where they come from. 

Be ready to feast over not just the most authentic, homemade delicacies in the country but also over the fascinating tales of the various hometowns.  You’re in for a serious food coma (in a good way) when you join food experiences.

3. Dance in Colorful Festivals

Filipinos are known for their happy and optimistic nature. They always find reasons to celebrate colorful festivals, also known as “fiestas,” which have been a part of the Filipino culture through the years.

Part of the Philippines' culture is its known respect to religion which is evident in the celebration of various patron saints though the whole country. Sinulog Festival in Cebu is one of the most popular Catholic festivals. Tourists from different parts of the world join the festivity to witness its street parties, native dances and colorful costumes.

Another most celebrated festival is The Feast of the Black Nazarene which takes place on the 9th of January every year in Manila, attended by thousands of devotees who believe that the Black Nazarene is miraculous.

Other well-known festivals include MassKara Festival in Bacolod, Moriones Festival in Marinduque, Panagbenga Flower Festival, Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival of Festivals in Leyte, Davao’s Kadayawan Festival and Kalibo’s Ati-Atihan.

2. Lounge at the Best Beaches

The Philippines has the 5th largest coastline in the world. This coastline stretches thousands of miles dotted with a multitude of beautiful beaches, making it a slice of heaven for all sun and sand lovers. Its beaches are also consistently included in lists for the best beaches in the world in international publications. 

If you're looking for the most idyllic unspoiled beaches with crystal clear waters for a relaxing getaway, the Philippines has to be on top of your list.

Must-add beaches in your list should include the famous White Beach of Boracay, Nacpan Beach of El Nido in Palawan, Alona Beach of Bohol, and Long Beach (the longest beach in the Philippines) in San Vicente, Palawan. 

1. Join Island Hopping Tours

Its islands are what makes the Philippines the ultimate dream destination. As a tropical archipelago, the Philippines doesn’t disappoint when it comes to pristine postcard-worthy islands. The islands of the Philippines are recognized worldwide as some of the best in the world, with Palawan consistently earning the number 1 spot for years. 

Island hopping tours are a must-add in any Philippine itinerary. These are usually done on a full day where you visit at least 2-3 islands. Some tours can even take you to as much as 5-7 islands in a day. Now that's an island lovers' dream getaway.

You'll get to visit islands with powdery white sand underneath your feet, with the salty air kissing your face as you savor the clear blue water surrounding you. It’s like a scene in a movie where you’re in an unbelievably beautiful island, but instead of just one, you get to experience this in different islands that each offers a unique beauty.

Top island hopping destinations in the Philippines include Palawan's El Nido and Coron, Cebu, Bohol, Siargao, Boracay, and Bohol to name a few. But wherever you are in the Philippines, as long as you're near the ocean, you're sure to find islands to explore. These will surely take your breath away and will leave you speechless and ignite your dream of living the island life.  

Plan Your Ultimate Philippines Holiday

There’s a lot to love about the Philippines and there are plenty of reasons to keep coming back for more. From island hopping to diving and snorkeling in crystal clear waters to experiencing its rich culture and history, you will surely find something to make your traveler’s heart skip a beat. 

Exploring this country is like meeting a potential lover. It intrigues you; it piques your interest and as you get to discover more about it, the more you’ll fall in love with it. 

Discover and explore what this country has to offer by checking out Philippines tours and activities that will surely make you fall with the Pearl of the Orient Seas!