THAT MOVES ME

My column in  Mindanao Daily, BusinessWeek Mindanao and Metro Cagayan de Oro Times.

TWO major issues concern me: climate change and the coronavirus Covid-19. Millions of people around the world are exposed to the virus and dangerous levels of heat stress - a dangerous condition that can cause organs to shut down. Many live in developing countries and do jobs that expose them to potentially life-threatening conditions. These include being out in the open on farms and building sites or indoors in factories and hospitals.

Science editor David Shukman shares the worries with me and many others. Summers are becoming hotter and hotter for humans. Global warming will increase the chances of summer conditions that may be "too hot for humans" to work in.

When we caught up with Dr. Jimmy Lee, his goggles were steamed up and there was sweat trickling off his neck. An emergency medic, he's laboring in the stifling heat of tropical Singapore to care for patients with Covid-19. There's no air conditioning - a deliberate choice, to prevent the virus from being blown around - and he notices that he and his colleagues become "more irritable, shorter with each other".

Predictions shake me: more than 3bn could live in extreme heat by 2070. The monetary Siberian heatwave is clear evidence of climate change. 2019 was Europe's warmest year on record. And Dr. Lee's personal protective equipment, essential for avoiding infection, makes things worse by creating a sweltering 'micro-climate' under the multiple layers of plastic.

We can all imagine that working in a tropical climate can be extremely uncomfortable. One danger is that overheating can slow down our ability to do something vital for medical staff - make quick decisions.

Another is that they may ignore the warning signs of what's called heat stress - such as faintness and nausea - and keep on working till they collapse. If the body is unable to cool down properly so its core temperature keeps rising to dangerous levels and key organs can shut down. It happens when the main technique for getting rid of excess heat - the evaporation of sweat on the skin - can't take place because the air is too humid.

According to Dr. Rebecca Lucas, who researches physiology at the University of Birmingham, the symptoms can escalate from fainting and disorientation to cramps and failure of the guts and kidneys.

What impact will climate change have? As global temperatures rise, more intense humidity is likely as well which means more people will be exposed to more days with that hazardous combination of heat and moisture.

Another study, published earlier this year, warned that heat stress could affect as many as 1.2 bn people around the world by 2100, four times more than now. It's not a new thing for me and you: people need to drink plenty of fluid before they start work, take regular breaks, and then drink again when they rest.

But scientists around the globe agree:  avoiding heat stress is easier said than done. There's a practical problem as well - some people do not want to drink so they can avoid having to go to the toilet. And another fatal attraction in my opinion: For many people, there's a professional desire to keep working whatever the difficulties so as not to let colleagues and patients down at a time of crisis.

Highly motivated people can actually be at the greatest risk of heat injury, says Dr. Jason Lee, an associate professor in physiology at the National University of Singapore. He's a leading member of a group specializing in the dangers of excessive heat, the Global Heat Health Information Network, which has drawn up guidelines to help medics cope with Covid-19. It's spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and the US weather and climate agency Noaa.

This climate change will be a bigger monster and we really need a coordinated effort across nations to prepare for what is to come.

A Sitio’s thirst finally quenched

Davao de Oro Province--- Chasing the right spot in a drying river for a source of water is an everyday challenge for Rosalie, a resident of Purok-Gemelina, Sitio Lawaan, Kingking, Pantukan, Davao de Oro.

When water runs out, most of them opted to transfer to higher parts of the river’s trail, carrying pales and basin to do laundry and heavy containers holding fresh water that would quench their thirst and aid them to finish daily household chores.

“Pasalamat mi nga naa nami tubig dire, kay ug muadto mi ug sapa nga layo kaayo sa tanan, mag sige mi ug balon, usahay mag gukod pa mi sa tubig kay mahubsan naman.” said Rosalie Chiokiet.

More or less four months since the PAMANA (Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan) started their project to construct and improve the water system of the community, the long-wait for a good source of potable water is over.

On July 16, 2020 the Blessing and Turn-Over Ceremony of the Water System was held in the community, formally giving them what they need and deserve. The project was made possible through the coordination of the Provincial Local Government of Davao de Oro and Municipal LGU of Pantukan.

With the new water system, about 90 households in Sitio Gemilina will now benefit from the project, giving them the comfort, making chores easier, thereby eradicating difficulty in getting a good source of water.

Sitio Lawaan is one of the beneficiary in extending development interventions to isolated, hard to reach and conflict-affected communities under the national government’s convergence program, the PAMANA which partners with implementing agencies, ensuring that there will be no communities left behind.

For the residents of the sitio, the fulfillment of their hardship brought a big impact in their lives. The importance of water is eternal as thousands have lived without love, but no one without water.

(Jasteen Abella, Information Division Davao de Oro)

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