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

(C) 2020 Guide to the Philippines

RELIGIOUSNESS - GODLINESS - DEVOUTNESS

One of the most important parts of my life is the belief in a supernatural power that governs the universe. It doesn't matter which religion we belong to or believe in: the recognition of God as an object of worship. The form of worship should be our primary need.

During my stay in several Western countries, I experienced icy and conceited comments such as "religiousness isn't popular anymore". Religiousness makes people unwilling and morose because of exaggeration and sometimes even hypocrisy.

I found out that in times of Covid-19 more and more people started praying again. Since then the coronavirus no longer allows us to go to church, worshipping and its broadcasts happened online. Of course, it's not the same as before. As I said before: nothing will be the same as before... But it doesn't mean that I cut my relationship with God and stop talking to him.

Increasing negative headlines about the "institutional church" nowadays and also in the past, and embarrassing comparisons lead only to discord. People have asked if there is still a chance of religiousness.

How come? We want to see the religiosity of our fellow creatures. We want to understand their ideology. But we are also poking our nose into other people's business too much. Let's look behind the scenes and let's find out what religious behavior promotes: humility in actual life. Maybe. It's hard for us to do without affecting others. We even forget the real meaning of religiousness.

St. John Crysostom subscribed to the topic "Pagans and Christians" very well: "There would be no pagans if we were good Christians. But the pagans see us manifesting the same desires, pursuing the same objects - power and honor - as themselves, how can they admire Christianity?

They see our lives open to reproach and our souls worldly. We admire wealth equally with them and even more. How, then, can they believe? From miracles? But these are no longer wrought. From our conversion? It has become corrupt. From charity? Not a trace of it is anywhere seen. (Quotation "Winnowing Fan", Vol. XX, June 2003, S of G Foundation, Makati).

If I talk about myself I am proud to have people in my surroundings who taught me how to be on the right track - unconcerned and unnoticed. Natural and uninhibited, they showed me how to put real religiousness into action besides praying and going regularly to the church in the past. I call such people religious. I mean it as praise because they don't like to blow their trumpets while acting like Christians in our daily life. Having such people around us makes it easier to practice forgiveness...

And, as always, my dear readers: stay safe and healthy!

Once upon a time in the Philippines (I)

Exploring Mindanao 1989: Mawab, Monkayo, Diwalwal etc.

Going the extra mile!

The employees of the provincial government of Davao de Oro as the trained enumerators and geo taggers braved the mountains and remote areas, walked long miles, crossed rivers using bamboo raft just to help establish a concrete, accurate and reliable baseline data as point of reference that serves as basis for the decision makers and development planners to come up with an evidence-based quality, doable and implementable plans, policies programs and projects to be prioritized.

Through the Provincial Household Profiling and Needs Assessment (PHPNA), the government will get new, accurate and correct data in terms of health, demographics characteristics, building/house structural characteristics, climate change and disaster information, and accessibility and communication.

This activity is set to be completed until November this year and shall be conducted in all municipalities of the province as part of steeping up data collection, and improving DDO through Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity. The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. There's no greater challenge and there is no greater honor than to be in public service. (Rey Antibo, ID DDO)

(Photo credits taken from various enumerators, geo-taggers)

Soldiers donate blood to help save lives

Davao de Oro --- Soldiers belonging to the operating units of the Army’s 71st Infantry (Kaibigan) Battalion have participated in a bloodletting activity held at the battalion headquarters in Barangay Nueva Visayas, Mawab, Davao de Oro on July 8, 2020.

 

The initiative is part of the soldiers’ continuing humanitarian efforts to help sustain the adequate blood supply in the blood banks that could save more lives during emergencies.

 

“We are not only ensuring the safety of people and securing the land but also saving lives,” 2nd Lt. Kim Carlos of 71st IB said in his brief message during the activity, dubbed, “Dugo mo, Alay sa Kapwa mo. Sa Pagtulong at Serbisyo, Kaibigan: Makiisa Tayo”.

 

The event was spearheaded by Lt. Colonel Sonny E. Gonzales, 71st Commanding Officer and made possible in partnership with Kiwanis International, Local Government Unit (LGU) of Mawab, Philippine Red Cross of Davao de Oro Chapter, and Office of the Governor thru Provincial Tourism Office.

 

A total of 45 blood bags were collected from 50 soldiers and will be used in case of emergency.

Prior to the bloodletting, some children received Jollibee food packs and toys as they attended a children’s party organized by the army on the afternoon at the same day.

 

Carlos also emphasized that this humanitarian effort is part of their campaign in peace and development program and commitment to achieve the objective of the Executive Order (EO) 70 which is to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) in the countryside.

 

The areas of coverage of the army’s 71st IB are the municipality of Mawab, Maco, Mabini, Pantukan in Davao de Oro and Tagum City in Davao del Norte. (Rheafe Hortizano, ID Davao de Oro,) (Photo courtesy of 71st IB)

PLGU-Davao de Oro conducts site inspection in tourism establishments

Davao de Oro Province--- When several restrictions begin to ease including the tourism sector, it’s no surprise that people were itching to get out and breathe after months of lockdown, but safety remains a paramount concern.

Tourism-related establishments and destinations in Davao de Oro adhere to the DOT’s Memorandum Circular No. 2020-002 “Health and Safety Guidelines Governing the Accommodation Establishments under the New Normal” and AO No. 2020-002 “Guidelines on the Operations of Hotels and other Accommodation Establishments under a Community Quarantine.” Guidelines on minimum health protocol for dine-in restaurants and fast food establishments set by the DTI, DOLE and DOT were also followed.

With this, PLGU-Davao de Oro through the Provincial Tourism Office with the Department of Tourism conducted a site inspection in the municipalities of Pantukan and Mabini this week.

“We conducted the inspection to ensure the compliance for their observance to minimum health protocols like sanitation, social distancing measures, disinfection mechanism, and contact tracing efforts” said Christine Dompor, Senior Tourism Operations Officer of Ddo.

Six (6) tourism establishments in Pantukan with provisional accreditation and Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) were inspected and thirteen (13) non-accredited or without provisional permit establishments were also monitored. Meanwhile in Mabini, eight (8) establishments issued with CAO by the DOT XI were also inspected.

Dumpor also said that information materials for public information at entrances were distributed, as well as health declaration and contact tracing forms and Emergency Operations Center (EOC) directory for a close coordination during emergencies

According to the EO. NO. 0043.2020, accommodation and ancillary establishments under MGCQ may undertake normal operation provided that operations shall be 50% operational capacity, retain skeleton workforce which may or may not comprise in house staff and ensure compliance with issuance and guidelines on minimum public health standards.

It’s now everybody’s responsibility to adhere the safety protocols set by the authorities as Covid-19 still lurks in places or individuals we never know. (Jasteen Abella, Information Division, Davao de Oro)

German Scholars Take Interest in Dr. Jose Rizal’s “Noli Me Tangere”, “El Filibusterismo”

By: Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines

A growing number of German scholars have taken interest in studying Dr. Jose Rizal’s “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo” as the two novels provided the framework for a Master’s degree summer course entitled, “Jose Rizal y El Realismo Espanol,” which is being conducted from April to July 2020 as part of the Ruhr University in Bochum’s Philippine Studies program.

The course, which is attended online by students of Spanish literature under Professor Roger Friedlein, attempts to define the essence and strategies of realist writing in metropolitan Spain and the Philippines.

“Rizal is not only one of the key figures of the Philippine independence from Spain who has biographical links to Germany, but he is as well a poet, dramatist and essayist and one of the most interesting Spanish-speaking novelists of the 19th century,” said Professor Friedlein.

The professor added that through the course, German students can gain better appreciation of Rizal’s novels as a valuable source of knowledge in the study of colonial society. The course also allows them to keenly establish the connection and similarity in literary techniques between Spanish-speaking Latin America and the Philippines, which were both distant territories of Spain in the 19th century.

“I am glad that German scholars have taken interest in studying Rizal’s writings and see their enduring relevance. As we commemorate Dr. Jose Rizal’s 159th birth anniversary, the course is but a timely reminder that there will always be something in Rizal the people of today can emulate. There is always something in Rizal for everyone, including the Germans,” said Philippine Consul General to Frankfurt Evelyn D. Austria.

The two novels are being related to Spanish literature of Realism, which was the dominating literary aesthetic of Rizal’s time. Since they were originally written in Spanish, Rizal’s novels are being studied in comparison with Spanish novels like Doña Perfecta (1876), and Fortunata y Jacinta (1887) by Benito Pérez Galdós, one of the most influential Spanish realist novelists.

The course is the third seminar conducted at Ruhr University under its “Philippine Initiative” program, which is an interdisciplinary cooperation of researchers with an interest in topics related to the Philippines. Two other Philippine-related courses held recently were "Las Filipinas Hispánicas" (The Spanish Philippines) and "Berichte der Entdeckungsfahrten nach Südostasien" (Chronicles on the voyages of discovery to South-East Asia).

The program forms part of the recently-signed cultural agreement between the Philippine Consulate General in Frankfurt and the University. The agreement, which was sponsored by Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda, aims to support academic and research activities on Philippine matters, and the creation of a center that would serve as a hub for Philippine-related projects in Southern Germany. 

The activities may be followed on the blog: philippinen.blogs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de

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Ein erfrischender Morgenlauf / A refreshing early morning walk

Ein erfrischender Lauf am frühen Morgen in meinem Garten auf den Philippinen. Herrlich...

A refreshing early morning walk at my compound/garden in the Philippines. Wonderful ...

Einreise nach Deutschland: Fragen und Antworten

Nordseeküste bei Internet-Portal Airbnb besonders gefragt (picture-alliance/dpa/I. Wagner)

Reisewarnung, Risikogebiet, Quarantäneauflagen, Corona Hotspots: Für viele unserer Leser bleiben die Einreisebestimmungen für Deutschland undurchsichtig. Wir geben Antworten auf die wichtigsten Fragen.

Von Felix Schlagwein, DW
   

Innerhalb der EU sind wieder Ferienflieger unterwegs und auch Touristen aus ausgewählten Drittstaaten können nach Deutschland einreisen. Jeder ist gut beraten, sich vor dem Koffer packen gründlich zu informieren. Was für die EU gilt, muss nicht für Deutschland gelten. Quarantäne-Auflagen werden nicht nur innerhalb der EU, sondern auch innerhalb Deutschlands unterschiedlich angewandt. Das Chaos an Verordnungen, Regeln und Ausnahmen von der Regel ist verwirrend. Das verunsichert.

Was mache ich, wenn...? Zur Zeit erreichen uns viele Fragen von unseren Lesern und den Nutzern unserer Social Media Kanäle. Wir sind den wichtigsten Fragen nachgegangen.

Frage 1
Die Liste der Länder, aus denen ich nach Deutschland einreisen darf, ändert sich immer wieder. Wo finde ich die aktuellsten Informationen?

Für die Einreisebestimmungen nach Deutschland ist prinzipiell das Bundesinnenministerium zuständig. Hier finden Sie alle aktuellen Informationen, auch auf Englisch. Zusätzlich sollten sich Reisende auf der Website des Auswärtigen Amts und der Bundespolizei über die aktuellen Reisebestimmungen informieren. Einen EU-weiten Überblick bietet Re-open Europe.

Bislang dürfen Bürger der Europäischen Union und der Schengen-Länder ohne Einschränkung nach Deutschland einreisen. Menschen aus Drittstaaten können das aktuell nur mit triftigem Grund. Allerdings sollen diese Reisehindernisse schrittweise abgebaut werden. Aufgrund der niedrigen Infektionszahlen will die EU Menschen aus 14 Drittstaaten wieder freie Einreise gewähren. Dies ist allerdings nur eine Empfehlung, die jeder EU-Staat umsetzen kann, wie er möchte. Deutschland gewährt aktuell Australien, Georgien, Kanada, Montenegro, Neuseeland, Thailand, Tunesien und Uruguay freie Einreise. Auch für China, Südkorea und Japan sollen die Beschränkungen fallen - allerdings erst, wenn Deutsche dort auch wieder frei einreisen dürfen.

Frage 2
Unter welchen Bedingungen kann ich aus einem Land kommen, für das in Deutschland ein Einreiseverbot gilt? Gibt es Ausnahmen und wenn ja, welche?

Die Liste der Ausnahmen vom Einreiseverbot nach Deutschland ist lang. Das Bundesinnenministerium hat hier Ausnahmen vom Einreiseverbot zusammengestellt, wer einen triftigen Grund hat und damit nach Deutschland kommen darf. Weitere Informationen gibt es ebenfalls bei der Bundespolizei.

Frage 3
Wie finde ich heraus, ob ich nach der Einreise aus einem Drittstaat in Quarantäne muss und wo ich diese zu verbringen habe? Kann ich eine Quarantäne mit einem negativen Corona-Test vermeiden?

Grundsätzlich müssen nur Menschen aus solchen Drittstaaten in Quarantäne, die das Robert-Koch-Institut als Risikogebiet einstuft. Wer sich dort in den letzten 14 Tagen vor der Einreise nach Deutschland aufgehalten hat, muss sich 14 Tage selbst isolieren. Die Liste dieser Länder wird laufend aktualisiert. Wer also plant, nach Deutschland zu kommen, sollte sich vor der Abreise unbedingt informieren, ob das Ausgangsland auf dieser Liste steht. Das gilt auch für Rückkehrer. Die konkreten Quarantäne-Auflagen werden von den Bundesländern erlassen. Welche Auflagen in welchem Bundesland gelten, erfahren Sie hier.

Quarantäne-Auflagen können Sie mit einem negativen Corona-Test oder einem Gesundheitszeugnis vermeiden. Beide dürfen allerdings nicht älter als 48 Stunden sein. Der Frankfurter Flughafen bietet einen Corona-Schnelltest (PCR-Test) nach der Ankunft an, Kosten: 139 Euro. Auch am Flughafen München kann man sich testen lassen - für 190 Euro. Durchreisende müssen übrigens nicht in Quarantäne, solange sie keine COVID-19-Symptome haben.

Frage 4

Wenn ich positiv getestet werde und in Quarantäne muss, wo verbringe ich diese und wer trägt die Kosten?

Das Ergebnis des Schnelltests am Flughafen wird Ihnen innerhalb weniger Stunden auf Ihr Smartphone geschickt. Sollte der Test positiv ausfallen, werden automatisch die Gesundheitsbehörden informiert und eine 14-tägige Quarantäne muss absolviert werden. Das zuständige Gesundheitsamt gibt Ihnen konkrete Instruktionen und Informationen. Die Einhaltung der Quarantänepflicht wird von den örtlichen Behörden kontrolliert. Verstöße können in einigen Bundesländern mit bis zu 10.000 Euro Strafe geahndet werden.

Auch nicht getestete Einreisende aus Risikogebieten müssen sich in jedem Fall auf direktem Weg in Quarantäne begeben, wenn vorhanden, in die eigene Wohnung oder eine andere geeignete Unterkunft. Was eine "geeignete Unterkunft" ist, entscheidet im Quarantänefall das örtliche Gesundheitsamt. Konkrete Vorgaben über die Art der Unterkunft gibt es weder auf Bundes- noch auf Länderebene.

Sollten Mehrkosten, zum Beispiel durch Hotelübernachtungen oder Arztbesuche anfallen, werden diese nicht vom deutschen Staat übernommen. Allerdings könnten der Reiseveranstalter und die Auslandskrankenversicherung einspringen, sofern diese Konditionen vorher vereinbart wurden. Ausländischen Staatsbürgern wird darüber hinaus empfohlen, ihre Botschaft in Deutschland über den Quarantäne-Aufenthalt zu informieren.

Frage 5
Ich will nach Deutschland einreisen: Wird differenziert zwischen dem Land, aus dem ich einreise und meiner Staatsbürgerschaft?

Ob Sie in diesem Fall nach Deutschland einreisen dürfen, hängt auch davon ab, ob Sie einen gültigen Aufenthaltstitel oder Visum für Deutschland bzw. den Schengen-Raum haben. In diesem Fall gilt: Wohnort bzw. langfristiger Aufenthaltsort geht vor Staatsangehörigkeit. Ein Beispiel: Ein Australier mit Wohnsitz in Nigeria will nach Deutschland reisen. Australien steht auf der "Positivliste" für eine Einreise nach Deutschland (siehe oben). Da dieser Australier jedoch in Nigeria wohnt, darf er nicht ohne dringenden Grund einreisen. Eine Brasilianerin, die ihren Wohnsitz in Belgien hat, allerdings schon. Übrigens: Visa werden bis auf weiteres für den Schengen-Raum nicht mehr vergeben - mit wenigen Ausnahmen in dringenden Fällen. 

Frage 6

Was passiert, wenn ich aus einem Land einreisen möchte, für das Deutschland eine Reisewarnung ausgesprochen hat? Ich bin Türke und lebe in der Türkei. Und Deutschland hat eine Reisewarnung für mein Land ausgesprochen. Darf ich nach Deutschland oder werde ich am Flughafen zurückgewiesen?

Eine generelle Reisewarnung für alle Länder außerhalb der EU und des Schengen-Raums gilt noch bis 31. August 2020. Diese Reisewarnung richtet sich allerdings an deutsche Staatsbürger und steht nicht in direktem Zusammenhang mit den Einreisebeschränkungen nach Deutschland.

Wer beispielsweise aus der Türkei nach Deutschland kommen möchte, braucht dafür einen triftigen Grund (siehe oben). Die Reisebegründung wird bereits vor dem Abflug von der Fluggesellschaft und am Abflughafen überprüft. Erst dann dürfen Sie fliegen. Trotzdem kann es vorkommen, dass Sie am Flughafen in Deutschland abgewiesen werden, sollten die Beamten dort Ihren Grund als nicht ausreichend bewerten oder sich kurzfristige Änderungen der Einreisebeschränkungen ergeben haben. Dann müssen Sie wieder zurückfliegen. Da die Fluggesellschaft die Kosten dafür übernehmen muss, wird sie jedoch genau überprüfen, ob Sie berechtigt sind, nach Deutschland zu reisen. 

Wichtig: Die Türkei befindet sich aktuell auf der Liste der Risikogebiete. Das bedeutet, dass sich Einreisende nach ihrer Ankunft einer 14-tägigen Quarantäne unterziehen müssen. An einigen deutschen Flughäfen (siehe oben) kann ein Schnelltest gemacht werden. Sollte dieser negativ sein, muss keine Quarantäne absolviert werden.

Frage 7

Die einzelnen Länder der EU scheinen unterschiedlich mit der Einreise aus Drittstaaten umzugehen. Kann ich das nutzen? So kann ich vielleicht in Griechenland einreisen, aber nicht in Deutschland. Wenn ich es nach Griechenland geschafft habe, kann ich von dort nach Deutschland reisen?

Nicht zwangsläufig. Jedes EU- und Schengen-Land hat - trotz relativ einheitlicher Beschlüsse auf EU-Ebene - die Entscheidungshoheit über seine Einreisebeschränkungen. Sollten Sie also erfolgreich nach Griechenland eingereist sein, heißt das nicht, dass Ihnen automatisch in Deutschland freie Einreise gewährt wird - sofern Sie ihren Wohnort nicht im Schengen-Raum haben bzw. ein gültiges Visum besitzen. Informieren Sie sich deshalb vor einer geplanten Reise genau über die aktuellen Bestimmungen, die in Deutschland gelten. Kontaktieren Sie bei weiteren Fragen die zuständige Botschaft in Deutschland.

Frage 8
Ich bin in Deutschland und entwickle Corona-Symptome: Was tue ich?

Informieren Sie sofort das zuständige Gesundheitsamt. Bei stärkeren Beschwerden kontaktieren Sie zusätzlich einen Arzt oder die Corona-Hotline (Tel. 116 117). Sollten Sie schwere Symptome zeigen, gehen Sie ins Krankenhaus oder rufen Sie einen Krankenwagen. Informieren Sie sich vor Reiseantritt über die Kontaktdaten ihrer Botschaft in Deutschland, falls Sie diese im Krankheitsfall kontaktieren möchten.

Frage 9

Was passiert, wenn sich während meines Deutschland-Aufenthalts etwas an den Bestimmungen ändert? Zum Beispiel, die Rückkehr unmöglich wird, weil Deutschland oder mein Heimatland die Grenzen erneut schließen?

Treten Sie schnellstmöglich in Kontakt mit Ihrer Botschaft in Deutschland. Grundsätzlich sollte eine Ausreise aus Deutschland und Wiedereinreise in Ihr Heimatland möglich sein - sofern Sie nicht unter Quarantäne stehen oder aktiv infiziert sind. Wie Sie ausreisen können und wer die Kosten dafür übernimmt, kommt auch auf Ihre Buchungsbedingungen an. Fragen Sie den Reiseveranstalter oder die Fluggesellschaft, ob und wann eine Rückkehr möglich ist und wer für die möglichen Kosten aufkommt. Sorgen Sie vorsichtshalber vor Reiseantritt für einen finanziellen Puffer, sollten Mehrkosten entstehen. Denn: Sollte das Gebäude, die Stadt oder Region, in der Sie sich in Deutschland aufhalten, unter Quarantäne gestellt werden, müssen Sie dort bleiben bis die Behörden Ihnen erlauben, das Gebiet wieder zu verlassen.

Frage 10

Die Bundesländer in Deutschland haben unterschiedliche Corona-Regeln. Wie informiere ich mich am besten, wenn ich im Land reisen will?

Besonders wichtig sind die verschiedenen Regelungen zu den Quarantäneauflagen für Einreisende aus Drittstaaten, die als Risikogebiet ausgewiesen sind. Behalten Sie außerdem die Nachrichtenlage in Deutschland und ihrer Aufenthaltsregion im Auge. Es kann vorkommen, dass bestimmte Städte, Landkreise oder Regionen wegen zu hoher Neuinfektionen unter Quarantäne gestellt und auch innerhalb Deutschlands zum Risikogebiet erklärt werden. Die einzelnen Bundesländer können zudem einen "Lockdown" beschließen. Das kann Auswirkungen auf ihre Reise innerhalb Deutschlands sowie auf ihre Rück- oder Weiterreise ins Ausland haben. Wenden Sie sich deshalb bei Fragen an die lokalen Behörden sowie an die Botschaft Ihres Landes in Deutschland.

(C) by DW -Deutsche Welle 2020