Philippines is 2nd happiest country in Southeast Asia

by Alexandria Dennise San Juan, Manila Bulletin

The Philippines is now the second happiest country in Southeast Asia, according to the 2022 World Happiness Report (WHR), Malacañang announced.

Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said the Philippines earned the second spot among Southeast Asian countries in the latest WHR released by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN).

“Ang Pilipinas po sa ngayon ang pangalawan pinaka-masayang bansa o happiest country sa Southeast Asia. Ito ay ayon sa 2022 World Happiness Report ng Sustainable Development Solutions Network (The Philippines is now the second happiest country in Southeast Asia. This is based on the 2022 World Happiness Report of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network),” Andanar said.

In the 10th edition of the WHR published last week, the country also ranked 60th out of 146 countries across the world with a score of 5.904. This is a notch higher than the 61st spot in 2021.

Finland remains the happiest country in the world for the fifth straight year with a score of 7.821 this 2022. Meanwhile, Afghanistan is at the bottom of the rankings with a score of 2.404.

In the Southeast Asian region, Singapore topped the list with a score of 6.480 and ranked 27th worldwide. Other Southeast Asian countries included in the rankings are Thailand (61st), Malaysia (70th), Vietnam (77th), Indonesia (87th), Laos (95th) Cambodia (114th), and Myanmar (126th).

Based on the WHR website, the report measures happiness “based on life evaluations as the more stable measure of the quality of people’s lives.” The happiness of each country can also be explained through different factors such as gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, personal freedom, and perceptions of corruption.

“Overall levels of life evaluations have been fairly stable during two years of Covid-19, matched by modest changes in the global rankings,” the report read.

“Among the six variables used to explain these levels, there has been general growth in real GDP per capita and healthy life expectancy, generally declining perceptions of corruption and freedom, declining generosity (until 2020), and fairly constant overall levels of social support,” it added.

The 2022 WHR also showed that positive emotions have generally been twice as prevalent as negative ones—a gap that has been narrowing over the past ten years.

“The COVID-19 pandemic starting in 2020 has led to a 2021 pandemic of benevolence with equally global spread. All must hope that the pandemic of benevolence will live far beyond COVID-19. If sustainable, this outpouring of kindness provides grounds for hope and optimism in a world needing more of both,” it added.

Expert: Philippines now exiting Covid-19 pandemic

By THIRD ANNE PERALTA-MALONZO, SunStar Manila

AN INFECTIOUS disease expert said on Wednesday, February 23, 2022, that the Philippines is already exiting from the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

In a Laging Handa public briefing, infectious disease specialist and government pandemic response consultant Dr. Rontgene Solante said this is indicated in the continuous decrease in Covid-19 cases and the country’s ability to deal with severe and critical infections.

“Yes, I think we are on that process now, our mindset, hopefully, we can be exiting this pandemic, we can exit with this pandemic. Napaka-importante ng pagbaba ng kaso (The decline in cases is very important) because this is an important indicator na once we had na lower na ‘yung cases natin, we can deal with the virus, we know how to deal with it,” he said.

“And I think isa sa mga punto natin we also have available anti-viral agents that are appropriate against this infection we have oral and IV antivirals, our health care facilities are already equipped on how to deal with severe Covid, so for me, we are better of prepared now compared to two or one year ago,” he added.

Solante also maintained the importance of vaccination against Covid-19, especially the booster, in order for the country to be free from the pandemic and shift to endemic or learning to live normally along with the virus.

The country has shifted to low risk classification following a surge brought about by the Omicron variant in January.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, in his report during President Rodrigo Duterte’s Talk to the People Address on Monday, February 21, noted the continuous decline in Covid-19 cases nationwide, as well as hospital admissions brought about by Covid-19 infection.

Duque said from the seven days average of 16,000 cases on January 25 to 31, it went down to 1,972 from February 15 to 21.

The Department of Health (DOH) reported a total 1,019 fresh Covid-19 cases on Tuesday, pushing the total active cases to 56,668.

The country has a total Covid-19 caseload of 3,654,284, with 55,776 deaths and 3,541,840 recoveries.

Of the active cases, 704 were asymptomatic, 51,395 were mild, 2,840 moderate, 1,425 severe and 304 critical.

Of the 90 million targets of the National Government, 62,505,204 have been fully vaccinated while over 61.9 individuals have received the first dose. (SunStar Philippines)

Why did the Philippines join ASEAN?

Dayang C Marikit

My Quora account is mainly focused on promoting and educating people about the pre-colonial period.

The Philippines was actually the one who proposed ASEAN to its neighbors.

• The concept originated as “Maphilindo” which stands for (Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia)… This started as a way to reinvigorate their historical connections prior to Western colonization.

• However due to some anomalies on the part of the Philippines and Indonesia, this concept fell apart. The Philippines and Indonesia were trying to halt the formation of Malaysia and they plotted to divide the island of Borneo among themselves.
• After their failed attempt at creating “Maphilindo”… Filipino lawmakers later proposed the concept of (ASEAN) to our neighbors, but this time the concept included all of mainland and maritime Southeast Asia.

---

So the answer to your question is… (The Philippines joined ASEAN because Filipino lawmakers were the ones who proposed it to our neighbors.)

PH places 44 countries in green list, 2 in red

By THIRD ANNE PERALTA-MALONZO, SunStar Manila

THE Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) has placed at least 44 countries in the world under the “Green” list category, while two others have remained under “Red” list for November 16 to 30, 2021.

Green has been used for countries that are low risk to coronavirus disease (Covid-19), while Red is for those classified as high risk. Yellow means moderate risk.

Included in the Green list are American Samoa, Bhutan, Chad, China (Mainland), Comoros, Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Federated States of Micronesia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of China), India, Indonesia, Japan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Mali, Marshall Islands, Montserrat, Morocco, Namibia, Niger, Northern Mariana Islands, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Paraguay, Rwanda, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Sint Eustatius, South Africa, Sudan, Taiwan, Togo, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Faroe Islands and The Netherlands are the two areas that are currently in the Red list, while the rest of the countries, territories, and jurisdictions not mentioned are under Yellow list.

Fully-vaccinated travelers entering the Philippines from areas under the green list no longer need to undergo a facility-based quarantine upon their arrival provided that they yield negative RT-PCR test results taken within 72 hours prior to departure from the country of origin.

They also have the option to undergo a facility-based quarantine until the release of their negative RT-PCR test result taken in the quarantine facility upon arrival in the country or not to undergo quarantine, so long as they get a negative RT-PCR test result within 72 hours prior to departure from the country of origin.

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals, as well as those with unverified vaccination status and those who failed to comply with the “test-before-travel requirements” need to undergo a facility-based quarantine until the release of their negative RT-PCR test taken on their fifth day in the country.

or fully-vaccinated passengers departing from countries under Yellow list, they need to undergo facility-based quarantine until the release of their negative RT-PCR test result taken on their fifth day in the Philippines.

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated will have to undergo RT-PCR testing on the seventh day of a facility-based quarantine.

Inbound passengers from Red countries will be denied entry in the Philippines if they stayed there 14 days prior to their arrival to the Philippines unless they were Filipino citizens who will be subject to testing and quarantine protocols.

Returning Filipinos are required to spend their first 10 days in a quarantine facility and the last four days at home. They also have to undergo RT-PCR testing on their seventh day.

Travelers transiting through the countries under Red list with proof they only stayed in the airport will not be considered as coming from a red country.

Meanwhile, the IATF also approved to honor the national Covid-19 vaccination certificates of individuals from Australia, Czech Republic, Georgia, India, Japan, The Netherlands, United Kingdom, Turkey, and Samoa as recommended by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

“The said recommendation is in addition to such other countries/territories/jurisdictions whose proofs of vaccination the IATF already approved for recognition in the Philippines, and without prejudice to such other proofs of vaccination approved by IATF for all inbound travelers,” said Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque.

“Accordingly, the Bureau of Quarantine, the Department of Transportation-One-Stop-Shop, and the Bureau of Immigration are directed to recognize only the proofs of vaccination thus approved by the IATF,” he added. (SunStar Philippines)

PH to observe, learn from Thailand's experience in reopening country to foreign tourists

Phra Nang Beach, Krabi, Thailand (Sumit Chinchane/ Unsplash)

by Ellson Quismorio, Manila Bulletin

The Philippine government will try to learn from its neighbor Thailand as the latter opens up to fully vaccinated foreign tourists for the first time since the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic last year.

“Tinitingnan din po natin ang magiging karanasan ng Thailand dahil isa siya sa pinakauna na nagbukas ng turismo (We will look at the experience of Thailand because it is among the first to reopen its tourism industry)?” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said in a virtual press conference Friday, Nov. 5.

Roque noted that the economy of Philippines, like Thailand, is dependent on its revenues from tourism, which took a big hit the world over due to the emergence of the deadly COVID-19 early last year.

“Kaya lang mas dependent talaga sila sa tourism ‘no kung ikukumpara sa atin (But compared to us, they’re really more dependent on their tourism),” he said.

Still, stakes are high for Philippine tourism to get back on its feet as soon as possible, especially with the local hosting of the World Travel and Tourism Council Global Summit in March 2022.

Asked by a reporter if the Philippine government plans to reopen to international tourists in time for next year’s event, Roque replied: “Tama po kayo, pupuwedeng mangyari iyan ‘no. Pero kaya nga po, kinakailangan ma-achieve natin ang population protection by December (Yes you’re correct, that could happen. But that’s why we need to achieve population protection by December).”

The nationwide vaccination rate against COVID-19 stands at around 37 percent (full vaccination).

Over in the National Capital Region (NCR), nearly 89 percent of the eligible population has been fully vaccinated. This high rate of vaccination along with the plummeting daily new cases have allow the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to de-escalate the region’s status from alert level 3 to alert level 2.

“So in due time po. We will open tourism in due time ‘no. At ngayon nga po na alert level 2 (And now that we’re under alert level 2), that’s very encouraging,” Roque said.

PH braces for another school year under distance learning

by Merlina Hernando-Malipot

Manila Bulletin

After President Duterte once again thumbed down proposals to implement limited face-to-face classes amid the pandemic, a group of teachers urged the Department of Education (DepEd) to start preparing the education system for another school year under distance or blended learning.

Some teachers hold online classes under distance learning. (MARK BALMORES / MANILA BULLETIN)

The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC), a 30,000 strong-group, on Tuesday, June 22, said that the DepEd should be able to identify by now the challenges under distance learning which is being implemented this school year.

“With the President, again rejecting limited face-to-face class proposals from DepEd, it is now clear that the same learning system will be used in the entire country for school year 2021-2022,” TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas said.

Duterte, during his pre-recorded televised address on Monday night, once again rejected the proposal of DepEd to implement limited face-to-face classes in low risk areas. Education Secretary Leonor Briones, as a response, has withdrawn the request of DepEd.

This is not the first time that Duterte rejected calls for the pilot testing of limited face-to-face classes at the basic education level. In December, DepEd formally sought the approval of the President for the pilot implementation of face-to-face classes which was supposed to start in January 2021.

While the President initially agreed, he recalled his decision with the detection of new COVID-19 variant in the country. In February, the proposed pilot implementation of face-to-face classes was once again brought up the proposal to the President, however, it was also rejected.

Given the latest pronouncement of the President of not allowing face-to-face classes, TDC said that DepEd is likely to adopt distance learning as part of its Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP).

Under the BE-LCP, students learn their lessons at home through the use of multiple learning delivery modalities such as modular (printed and offline), online learning, television and radio-based instruction, and blended learning or a combination of two or more alternative delivery modes.

However, TDC expressed concern that the teachers, learners and parents will once again experience the challenges they have experienced under distance learning this school year.

“And thus, the same problems of inaccessibility of children to online platforms, non-provision of gadgets for our teachers, lack of self-learning modules or its erroneous content and inability of many parents to facilitate the learning may again be encountered,” Basas said.

Given this, TDC called on the leadership of DepEd to “prepare the system and learn from the lessons of the current school year before declaring the start of another.”

25 Best Beaches in the Philippines

By Ella Larena

Verified Expert

Lounge in the best beaches of the Philippines! If you're looking for the most pristine and unspoiled beaches with crystal clear waters, and postcard-worthy views, the Philippines has a ton of them! But where do you start? Check out the top beaches in the country below.

The Philippines is an archipelago with over 7000 islands and has the 5th largest coastline in the world. This means there are thousands of tropical beaches to choose from!

Deciding on the best beach tours in the Philippines to add in your itinerary is one of the hardest things to do when planning your vacation to this Southeast Asian country.

That's why we’ve come up with this list to help you find the best beaches in the Philippines. From popular beaches to secluded unspoiled ones, here are 25 of the best beaches in the Philippines that you should add to your bucket list.

25. Bakhaw Beach, Camotes Islands, Cebu

One of the most underrated places in Camotes Islands, located in Cebu province, is Bakhaw Beach. Even though it’s a public beach, it rarely gets crowded.

This unspoiled beach has a picturesque stretch of white sand and crystal clear waters, making it the perfect place to go swimming and sunbathing.

It’s emerging as a must-visit tourist spot in the province and is also one of the top beaches in Cebu. Don’t forget to take photos of the sunset as it’s a breathtaking sight to see.

Best time to go: From December, January, February, March, April, to May. In January, you can also join the Sinulog Festival in Cebu City.

24. Antonia Beach, Gigantes Islands, Iloilo​

Islas de Gigantes or Gigantes Islands in Iloilo, Visayas have been gaining popularity in the recent years. That's because the crystal clear waters and powdery white sand of Antonia Beach is a sight to behold!

It’s one of those remote beaches where you can laze around and swim all day without the big crowd compared to the more popular beaches in the country. 

Just off the shoreline on the northern part of the beach you’ll find colorful fish, corals, seagrass, and other types of marine life that can be clearly seen even without snorkeling gear, although if you want a closer look you can always rent one out for a small fee. 

Best time to go: Join Gigantes Islands tours from December, January, February, March, April, to May when the waves are calmer for boat rides. In January, you can also join the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City. 

23. Lambug Beach, Badian, Cebu​​

Badian, Cebu got its reputation for being a popular canyoneering experience destination, but there’s a hidden gem within the area called Lambug Beach. This public beach is a great place to spend a lazy day relaxing and enjoying the sun.

This attraction is relatively uncrowded but if you want to stay overnight, there are some rooms or cottages surrounding the beach area that you can stay in.​

Best time to go: From December, January, February, March, April, to May when it's warm and sunny in Cebu.

22. Morong Beach, Batanes​

Aside from its rolling hills, lighthouses, and stone houses, the small archipelagic province of Batanes in the northernmost part of the Philippines is also home to Morong Beach.

Also called Nakabuang Beach, its most prominent feature is the massive rocky arch called Nakabuang Arch, making it one of the most photographed spots in Batanes.

The glass-like water in Morong Beach is calmer and friendlier despite the usual rough weather. The best way to enjoy Morong Beach is by joining a Sabtang Island day tour. You can even tour the island in a more rugged experience by joining a tricycle excursion of Sabtang Island.

Best time to go: From March, April, to May when there are few or no typhoons that cause flight cancellations.

21. Alegria Beach, Siargao

Siargao is often dubbed as the surfing capital of the Philippines. But there are more things to do in Siargao aside from surfing. Make sure to visit the unspoiled Alegria Beach, a 5-kilometer long white sand beach that’s famous for its breathtaking views. 

There are no commercial hotels and establishments within the area, only a few picnic huts and cottages. It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply sunbathing. Make sure to add this destination to the Siargao experiences you’ll be trying out while on the island.​

Best time to go: From March, April, May, June, July, August, September, to October. If you also want to go surfing aside from enjoying the beaches and island-hopping in Siargao, you should visit from August to November.

20. Anguib Beach, Santa Ana, Cagayan Valley​

Anguib Beach is one of the best beaches in Santa, Ana Cagayan Valley. Located at the northeastern tip of Luzon and the Philippines, this beach with powdery fine sand and crystal blue waters is one of the main highlights of Cagayan Valley adventures.

You can also try the popular island-hopping day trip in Cagayan where you visit other major attractions in nearby Palaui Island such as Cape Engaño Lighthouse.

A day trip to Palaui Island is a highly recommended side trip as you get to visit Anguib Beach, a majestic lighthouse, scenic terrains, and other white sandy beaches.

Best time to go: From March, April, May, to June when the waves are calmer for boat trips, especially if you want to explore Palaui Island. You'll be traveling by boat on the open seas for Palaui Island hopping tours. 

19. Subic Beach, Sorsogon​

Another Philippine beach with pinkish-white sand is Subic Beach in Matnog, Sorsogon of Bicol region. Its crystal blue waters and the unspoiled white sand beach with a hint of pink offers a peaceful getaway for travelers.

The beach is divided into two, Subic Laki (Big Beach) where accommodations are located, and Subic Liit (Small Beach) which is uninhibited but is perfect for taking a dip or a quiet stroll under the rows of trees.​

It’s a great destination to unwind and relax if you want to escape from the city and follow the sun.

Best time to go: From January, February, March, April, May, to June when the waves are calmer for boat trips. It's only about half an hour boat ride from the mainland but it's still safer to travel during the warm and sunny months. 

18. Pink Beach, Zamboanga​​

If you’re looking for a unique beach to visit, travel to the Pink Beach in Great Santa Cruz Island that you can access from Zamboanga City. The beach has a sandy pink color because of the white sand mixed with the pulverized red organ pipe corals.

It might not be visible at first, until you take a closer look at the sand, or view it from a drone video or photo.​

Joining a Zamboanga Pink Beach escapade is worth it, not only because it was dubbed as one of the best beaches by National Geographic, but you can also visit the mangrove forest on the island where you can ride a colorful vinta and encounter non-stinging jellyfish.

Best time to go: From November, December, January, February, March, to April. If there are no typhoons, you can also visit in October and see the colorful vinta boats during the Hermosa Festival.

17. Gumasa Beach, Sarangani

Situated on the stunning shoreline of Sarangani in Mindanao. It offers 6-kilometers of white sand beach, sparkling aquamarine waters, and a scenic view worthy of a photoshoot.​

What sets this beach apart is it’s less crowded, but offers the same experience as other more popular beaches in the country. You can go swimming, kayaking, jet-skiing, snorkeling, and many more.

You can join a Sarangani beach tour that includes Gumasa Beach during your trip to this part of the Philippines.

Best time to go: From January, February, March, to April for the best weather.

16. Bitaog Beach, Dinagat Islands​​

Photo by iwentanyways.com

Bitaog Beach is one of the best places to visit in Dinagat Islands, a group of islands in the northern tip of Mindanao. It’s a sight to behold with its white sandy shores, crystal clear waters, and rows of coconut trees.

With its pristine beauty, it’s no wonder why Bitaog Beach is emerging as a top destination in Mindanao.​

Bitaog Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. There is also an abundant number of rock formations and calcareous peaks that serve as the backdrop of its white sandy shores and are reminiscent of other paradise-like destinations in Palawan.

Best time to go: From December, January, February, March, April, to May when the waves are calmer for boat rides.

15. Malamawi Beach, Basilan

Malamawi Beach is an unspoiled white sand beach in Isabela City of Basilan, Mindanao. This off-the-beaten-path tourist spot is worth checking out because of its turquoise waters, stunning white sand, and uninhibited beauty.

Go for a walk, swim, snorkel, have a picnic, watch the sunset and more. There are beachfront cottages and small stalls selling food and other kinds of souvenirs. You can even rent kayaks if you want to try that water sport activity while in the area.​

Best time to go: From January, February, March, to April. 

14. Puka Beach, Boracay​

A gorgeous beach found on the island of Boracay is Puka Beach. It is one of those quieter beach spots in Boracay, which makes it ideal for those who are looking for a more peaceful tropical getaway.

It got its name from the abundance of crushed “puka” shells mixed with the fine white sand. The beach is roughly 800 meters long and doesn’t have hotels, resorts, and clubs like White Beach. Puka Beach is usually included on a sightseeing trip in Boracay.

Best time to go: From November, December, January, February, March, April, to May.

13. Bonbon Beach, Romblon

Bonbon Beach is an idyllic beach paradise located in the archipelagic province of Romblon, found in between Luzon and Visayas.

It is well-known for its long stretch of white sandbar extending up to 2 kilometers and connects to another island, Bang-og. The sandbar is visible during low tide and you can walk to Bang-og Island too!​

If you want to have a great time at this beach and enjoy its crystal clear waters and stretch of white sand to its full extent, make sure to visit either early in the morning or in the late afternoon.

Best time to go: From January, February, March, April, to May when it's the safest to travel by boat. 

12. Banol Beach, Coron, Palawan

Banol Beach, also called Banul Beach, is a sight to behold with its powdery white sand, aquamarine waters, and a towering wall of karst cliffs. Aside from swimming, you can also ride a kayak or chill by the nipa huts that line the beach.

Joining an island-hopping tour in Coron that includes Banol Beach is a must-try. You can also do an overnight Coron camping excursion that includes this beach.​

​​Don’t forget to bring your camera as it’s one of the most photogenic tourist spots in Coron!

Best time to go: From October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May, to middle of June when the waves are calmer for boat rides. You'll be spending the whole day traveling on boats when island hopping in Coron. 

11. Paliton Beach, Siquijor

​Paliton Beach is the most popular beach on the western side of Siquijor, a small island province in Central Visayas.

This beach is famous for its immaculate turquoise waters, white sand, and vast coconut trees. Visiting this beach is worth it, even during peak season.​

Join a Siquijor island adventure to visit Paliton Beach aside from top attractions in the province. The stunning sunset is a must-see in Paliton Beach! The most convenient way to go to Paliton Beach is by riding a scooter or a tricycle.

Best time to go: From November, December, January, February, March, April, to May.

10. Saud Beach, Pagudpud

Pagudpud, a coastal town in the Ilocos region and a popular holiday destination in North Luzon, is famous for its windmills and lighthouses. But it’s also a popular destination for travelers because of Saud Beach.

Known for its calm waters and stunning sunset views, this idyllic beach has 2-kilometers of powdery white sand. Take photos as you wade around its waters with the scenic view of Pagudpud as the backdrop!

Make sure to visit this beautiful beach during your sightseeing trip to Pagudpud.

Best time to go: From November, December, January, February, March, April, to early May. 

9. Long Beach, San Vicente, Palawan​​

True to its name, Long Beach is the longest beach in the Philippines with 14.7 kilometers of powdery white sand. Located in San Vicente, Palawan, it is composed of four towns namely San Isidro, New Agutaya, Alimanguan, and Poblacion. It’s one of the top tourist spots in San Vicente.​

This beach is ideal for those who seek peace and tranquility as it’s unspoiled and uncrowded. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing in this piece of tropical paradise.

If you’re still craving for more adventure in San Vicente, make sure to join Port Barton tours as well which is just a boat ride away.

Best time to go: From December, January, February, March, April, to middle of May .

8. Dahican Beach, Mati, Davao Oriental

Dahican Beach in Mati, Davao Oriental is not like your typical white sand beach, it’s also a skimboarding and surfing spot.

It has a 7-kilometer stretch of white sand perfect for lounging for non-surfers and non-skimboarders. The stretch of white sand beach is also a sanctuary for sea turtles.

This underrated beach in Mati is one of the best in Davao Oriental and worth the 4-hour land trip from Davao City. Make sure to stop by at this piece of paradise aside from top Davao trips and experiences.​

Best time to go: From December, January, February, March, April, to May.

7. Mahabang Buhangin Beach, Calaguas

If you ever wanted to visit an unspoiled beach with gorgeous views and turquoise waters, Mahabang Buhangin Beach in Tinaga Island of Calaguas Group of Islands, Camarines Norte is a must-visit.

It’s a famous destination for campers and beach lovers due to its remarkable 2.5 kilometer stretch of white sand.​

You can spend a weekend here or join a Calaguas Island escapade. One of the best ways to enjoy this beach is to rent a cottage or pitch a tent and rediscover the meaning of tropical paradise by wading around its turquoise waters.

Best time to go: From November, December, January, February, March, April, to May when the boat ride going to Calaguas is smooth sailing. 

6. Hidden Beach, El Nido, Palawan

Hidden Beach in El Nido, Palawan is best known for its white sand, azure waters, and towering karst formations that conceals it, thus the name.

From your boat, you can swim or ride a kayak to get to the beach. It’s one of the major highlights in El Nido island hopping tour C package.

Although it’s far from the other popular islands and beaches, most travelers prefer to unwind at Hidden Beach since it’s not crowded. This means you have more opportunities to take great photos (or selfies!) with the scenic view as the backdrop.

Hidden Beach is one of the best attractions in the list of El Nido island-hopping experiences that you have to visit during your trip to the Philippines.

Best time to go: From November, December, January, February, March, April, to May. 

5. Malcapuya Beach, Coron​​, Palawan

Coron, Palawan is a popular Philippine destination because of its beautiful islands and beaches. One of the must-visit tourist spots in Coron is Malcapuya Beach, that you can go to by joining an excursion at Culion Island.

It has 1.5-kilometer stretch of pristine white sand. ​Aside from being a great swimming spot, it’s one of the best places to snorkel and dive. It’s teeming with marine life and colorful corals.

Drink straight from a coconut as you stroll around the beach lined with palm trees. Make sure to take photos as well as it’s one of those picturesque beaches that deserve a spot on your photo album. 

Best time to go: From October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May, to middle of June.

4. Kota Beach, Bantayan Island​​, Cebu

Kota Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Bantayan Island, Cebu and features crystal clear waters, powdery white sand, and a sandbar that appears during low tide.

Bantayan Island is located on the Northwest Coast of Cebu and boasts fine white sand beaches without the big resorts and commercial establishments. ​

Bantayan Island is a perfect destination among travelers who want a laid back atmosphere and are looking for new experiences in Cebu.

Best time to go: From October, November, December, January, February, March, April, May to middle of June when the waves are calmer for the ferry ride from the main island of Cebu.

3. Alona Beach, Bohol​​

Along with its world-class diving sites, Panglao Island tours in Bohol are also famous for white-sand beaches.

Alona Beach, which is named after a famous actress during the ‘70’s, is a 1.5 kilometer stretch of white sand is one of the most well-known tourist spots in Bohol aside from the Chocolate Hills.

Aside from lounging on the beach, you can try fun Alona Beach activities like the banana boat ride, UFO ride, parasailing activity, and join island-hopping tours to nearby islets and islands.

Best time to go: From November, December, January, February, March, April, to May.

2. Nacpan Beach, El Nido, Palawan

Nacpan Beach is a 4-kilometer stretch of white sand in El Nido, Palawan, about 45 minutes' drive from the town center. It’s also part of the Twin Beaches along with Calitang Beach, adjacent to Nacpan Beach.

Nacpan Beach is considered by many as the real hidden gem of El Nido due to being uncrowded and untouched by mass tourism. 

You can spend a lazy day here just swimming, sunbathing, or hiking to the hill where you can see the view of the Twin Beaches. This is why Nacpan beach tours are massively popular among local and international travelers.

You must try a Nacpan Beach inland excursion in El Nido aside from island-hopping experiences. There are also plenty of other beaches in El Nido worth exploring if you have more time. ​

Best time to go: From December, January, February, March, April, to May when the roads going to Nacpan Beach are dry.

1. White Beach, Boracay

​White Beach offers a 4-kilometer long stretch of powdery white sand and is the most popular beach and the main attraction in the famous island of Boracay.

White Beach and other beaches in Boracay are not only considered as one of the best in the Philippines but are also hailed as the best in the world by several international travel publications.

The best way to experience the beach to the fullest is by trying out White Beach activities like the banana boat ride, parasailing tour, paraw sailing tour, paddleboarding tour, helmet diving tour, jet ski experience, wakeboarding activity, and speedboat riding.

You can also just lounge by the white sand and watch the famous Boracay sunset or join a sunset yacht cruise tour. You can join Boracay island-hopping tours to explore the islets and snorkeling spots around the island. 

Best time to go: From November, December, January, February, March, April, to May, the driest months. Since it's a popular destination, you can visit during lean or off-peak season to avoid the crowds from June, July, August, to October if there are no typhoons. 

Start Planning Your Beach Trip in the Philippines

If you love the feel of sand in between your toes, the cool sea breeze, and lounging on endless stretches of fine white sand, there is no shortage of beaches in the Philippines to choose from. From beaches that offer a relaxing getaway to those that have fun water activities in store, the Philippines has them for you. 

Find beach tours and activities you can add to your travel itinerary in the Philippines for that idyllic tropical escape

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