Davao de Oro honors 2020 retirees

Davao de Oro Province--- This year’s Philippine Civil Service Commission celebrates its 120th anniversary with the theme, Philippine Civil Service @120: Public Sector in the Age of Digital Transformation.

In the course of the pandemic, public service remains responsive in serving the general public through the use of emerging technologies, delivering efficient and effective services especially in times of emergencies as reflected with its anniversary theme.

In line with the celebration, PLGU Davao de Oro honors 21 retiring employees with years of service ranging from 8 to 41 years. Among the retirees were two (2) Provincial Government Department Heads, Nora F. Cagas from the Provincial Treasurer’s Office (PTO) and Eugene Alaba of the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO). The provincial government is grateful for their rendered service for years with dedication and hard-work.

“I am very proud of you, kay mi-abot gyud ta sa ani nga panahon ug nakita nato ang developments nga kabahin kita and we recognize that as kaming mga bag-o sa serbisyo. Kami magpadayung inspirado sama kaninyo ug dili namo malimtan inyuhang mga efforts, mga natabang sa atuang probinsya nga nahimugso, gikinahanglan nga kami magpadayun para ang inyuhang paghago kaniadto ug sa karun magpadayun ug mas daghan pang matabangan ug mulambo pa atung probinsya,” said Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) donated 4 (four) Patient Transport Vehicles to PLGU Davao de Oro which was formally blessed and turned-over on September 7, 2020 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds.

These patient transport vehicles will be given to the four (4) provincial hospitals of the province; DDOPH Montevista, DDOPH Patukan, DDOPH Laak and DDOPH Maragusan. The transport vehicles will be of great assistance in the Covid-19 Operations and other hospital related emergencies. (Jasteen P. Abella, Information Division Davao de Oro)

SOCIAL ANXIETY

Social anxiety is the single most common psychological problem according to innumerable survey results worldwide. The magnificent, gorgeous, and excellent isolation, resulting from being nervous when meeting people is really the opposite. The state of being isolated reminds me of being in a hospital with an infectious disease. Especially nowadays in times of Covid-19 ... .

Does the project of giving a speech or going to a social gathering give you the willies?

Relax, there are always ways and solutions to help you by teaching you "never to be nervous again".

I have always been the most silent pupil in elementary and high school. I was ashamed even to talk to or with my teachers. Several not really satisfactory (?) school records have been the result. But, I wanted to become a journalist. I am still one. And, I taught at a state university for more than 12 years.

During college times and while writing the first articles I learned from my first boss, a daily news publisher, to avoid being nervous while meeting people. I was always prepared. Preparation for any communicating situation is a must. I have been invited to many parties and gatherings. I always asked for the guest list. I scanned all newspapers and browsed them on the net.

"In your opinion, who..." or "What do you think of....?" kept the momentum going. That was sometime during the 1960s. Since that time, I was just very lucky to always meet the right people at the right time and place, which kept on teaching me how to avoid splendid isolation. Whether you're delivering a speech, approaching your boss, or joining an important social occasion, do at first your homework.

The most polished, smoothly delivered and spontaneous soundings talks are the result of many hours of work and years-long experiences. The memorable one-liners and moving phrases that went down in history didn't come from the last-minute bursts of inspiration.

I also learned from Harvard University historian Richard Marius, "that good writing is a kind of wrestling with the thought". Or, as New York Times columnist William Safire expressed before: "To communicate, put your thoughts in order, give them a purpose, use them to persuade, to instruct, to discover, to seduce!"

Let's don't forget, that every one of us has something to be proud of and that everyone enjoys talking about it. But, you have to make it happen!

DOT-XI GIVES GREEN LIGHT TO 75 HOTELS, OTHERS TO OPERATE

The Department of Tourism (DOT) XI regional Office has authorized 75 accommodation establishments in Davao City to operate under the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ).

Starting this month, 25 hotels, 45 mabuhay accommodations (inns, pension houses, motorist hotels, homestay, vacation homes), three (3) resorts, and two (2) apartelles in the city can operate after DoT XI issued their Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO).

Under the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF–EID) Resolution No. 43 s. of 2020 of the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Community Quarantine, accommodation establishments may operate only upon the issuance of a Certificate of Authority to operate by the DOT.

Gene Rose Tecson, the head of the City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO), said, “Those establishments issued with a CAO are compliant with the standard health protocols set by the IATF and the city government.” Tecson said her office will conduct regular inspections to monitor the compliance of securing a CAO from the DOT-XI as well as the practice of health protocols in the accommodation establishments, especially those restaurants and common areas of the establishments are now open.

The hotel establishments allowed to operate are Red Planet Hotels Davao Corporation, Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao, Seda Abreeza Hotel, Park Inn by Radisson Davao, DusitD2 Davao Hotel, Blue Lotus Hotel, The Madeline Boutique Hotel and Suites, Acacia Hotel Davao, Grand Menseng Hotel, Microtel by Wyndham Davao, Go Hotels Davao, Inc., Ruemango Apartelle and Suites, Hotel Tropika, Lispher Inn, Star Hotel, The Ritz Hotel at Garden Oases, The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Apo View Hotel, Home Crest Hotel, Infinity Suites, Green Banana Business Hotel, Panorama Summit Hotel, Sunny Point (Davao), Inc., El Bajada Hotel and Crevice Hotel.The Hotel Midori, Davao Obrero Suites, Midori Inn, Red Knight Gardens, The Lanang Suites, Tinhat Boutique Hotel, Domicilio Lorenzo Apartelle, Sumo Asia Hotel, Twin Teres Inn, Queen Karla’s Inn, City North Inn, A Travellers Inn, Roadway Inn, Circle B Inn, Abi Yhors Inn, Princess Perrine Suites, Mushroom Inn, Rhina Treasure’s Inn, Big Ben Apartelle, First Pacific Inn, Jade Dragon’s Suites, Jotel Inn, JBQ Inn, Metropolis Suites Davao, Nath Fen Suites, Inc., Bababoom Inn, Amaranta Suites, Palm Tree Residence, Davao Airport View Hotel, Oyo 165 Circle B Apartelle and Suite, Vismin GV Hotel Inc., Sun My Hotel, The Strand Suites and Dormitel Inc., RJEM Ventures (D’Garden Inn), Emma Victoria’s Inn, Casa Munda Bed and Breakfast, Faircrown Realty Corporation, Megiko Dormitel, VBH Inn, Drive Park Inn, My Hotel, Hotel Uno, Hotel Esse, Jazzy James Country Hotel and the Peridot Suites are the MAB establishments permitted to operate.Also allowed to operate are the Villa Carmelita Resort, Mamay Inn and Resort, Eden Nature Park and Resort, Linmar Apartelle, and Crown Regency Residences Davao.Based on CTOO’s inventory as of September 2020, Davao City has a total of 236 accommodation establishments. CIO

BEING ON THE RIGHT TRACK?

OPINION

By KLAUS DORING

 September 1, 2020

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MANY times we compare our life with a way. We talk about a "human life way". We describe a determined human such as, "He's on the right track (way)". We must make our tracks, but we will prepoved not to take a path across a rice-field. We learn that there are many ways to solve problems. We also don't want to stand in other people's way. Sometimes we prefer to keep out of someone's way. Sometimes, we plan already to get someone out of our way. It just happened in my surroundings. Most of all, we do try to find the golden middle course. "Hay nako" - that's the hardest task in life!

Many different ways have been offered to us during our whole life. Whole life?  Mmmmh, let's wait and see and have a cup of tea! How can we be able to choose the right way? The correct one? Which signs on our way can be trusted blindly? These are urgent and vital questions for all of us, and, during this time, important like never before. In the pasty traditions and custom demands have been produced our ways unquestionable. Nowadays permanently, constantly and continually we must think about decisions and look for the correct plan - but, more and more alone!

Today's man is like a ship's captain.This ship contains solid iron. The compass needle is no more able to show the Northern direction as expected, because of the ship's iron inflexible body. You only have one choice: look up to the stars and study their guiding support. A very wise idea by German atom-physicist Werner Heisenberg (1901-1976).

We are all happy and proud while having the perfect means at our disposal. On the other hand, our blindness allows us to intricate and confused destinations in life, aims, goals and objectives. We all know the headlines of our daily life, which always turn us away and distract our views to the stars - means to say: to God.

- Coup d'Etat (ignoring) of human values;
- Total (modern?) emancipation;
- Longing mostly -or only- for earthly luck on the way of all .

Many of these headlines are reality already. But this reality stays behind real dreams and illusions.  Let's keep our eyes open for the most important signs at our way, such as

- Ready to help the unprotected and defenseless weak;
- Struggle for freedom and justice;
- Commitment of peace;
-  Most of all: Love, which doesn't calculate and count - love without measurements, boundaries and limits.

2 Days to go for the DRDP 2017-2022 Midterm Update Virtual Launch

Davao de Oro Province--- Serving as a blueprint towards inclusive growth and development for the entire Davao Region, the Davao Regional Development Plan (DRDP) 2017-2022 is set to launch its Virtual Midterm Update this coming August 26, 2020.

The DRDP 2017-2022 is complementary to the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022 and is strongly anchored on a Philippine long-term vision – Ambisyon Natin 2040, wherein each Davaeno shall live in a “Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Buhay”.

The virtual update will be focusing on raising awareness and engagement of the Davaoenos’ support for the government’s development strategies in the remaining years of the Duterte administration, highlights of the salient features of the Davao Region Recovery Program amid the Covid-19 Pandemic and as for the final segment will be a virtual presser to be conducted in coordination with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) XI.

To further disseminate information for the event, simultaneous posting of campaigns was made through social media ensuring to reach every stakeholder both public and private to generate support for the Plan implementation. Campaigns will feature success stories of the provinces from the entire Davao Region for the past three years and dabawenyos’ commitment towards sustaining positive change for the entire region.

Guest speakers for the virtual launch will be DBM Secretary Wendel Avisado and current Cabinet Officer for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) for Region XI, NEDA Undersecretary Mercedita Sombilla, Regional Development Council (RDC) XI Chairperson Davao de Oro Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy and RDC Vice-Chairperson and NEDA XI Regional Director Maria Lourdes Lim.

(Jasteen P. Abella, Information Division Davao de Oro)

Philippines Has Expensive Turtle Internet

A global digital well-being study reveals the poor state of Internet in the Philippines.

By ESQUIRE PHILIPPINES 

IMAGE Unsplash, Wikimedia, Freepik

ILLUSTRATOR Bianca Papa

Access to the Internet has become a sore spot for the Philippines lately. Now that people are working from home, most are finding that their personal providers are slow, unreliable, or, worst, unavailable, as in there is no connection to the world wide web at all.

The Digital Quality of Life Index 2020, a recent study by VPN provider Surfshark, affirms these connectivity woes. Overall, the Philippines, which is highlighted twice in the 32-page report (and not in a good way), ranks 66 out of 85 countries in terms of digital well-being. 

The Philippines has expensive Internet connection. 

In the Internet Affordability index, which measures the time required to afford the cheapest mobile and broadband Internet in the country, the Philippines lands at 82, besting only a few countries such as Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Albania. Israel wins the round as the country with the most affordable Internet. 

Data also reveals that it takes 1,994 seconds of work to afford the cheapest mobile Internet and 75 minutes of work to afford the cheapest broadband Internet in the country.

The Philippines has poor Internet quality. 

The study’s Internet Quality index measures the average broadband and mobile download speeds and broadband and mobile stability during the pandemic.

Here, the Philippines chugs along at 77, placing it among the countries with the slowest and least stable Internet. Asian neighbor Singapore takes the top spot, while other Asian countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Indonesia occupy the five bottom slots in this category. 

The Philippines has less secure Internet.

E-security is gauged via the country’s cyber security efforts and personal data protection. In this index, the Philippines fares better, landing somewhere in the middle at 46.

The United Kingdom is the most prepared to fight cyber crime, taking the top spot, while Bangladesh has the poorest e-security, finding itself at the bottom.

The Philippine government has an above-average Internet presence.

Surprisingly, the Philippine government's above-average online presence—how its services are digitized or can be done over the Internet—hoists the country’s ranking for Electronic Government to 36.

Singapore, once more, takes the crown for having the most developed e-government, while Sri Lanka lags behind the rest at 85.

The study also observes that, for most, the e-security rating correlates with the e-government rank, as seen in the U.K., France, and Finland, all of which rank high in the indices.  

What does it all mean?

The numbers don’t lie. A poor showing in the study reflects the sorry state of connectivity in the Philippines, and this is negatively affecting the lives of Filipinos.

High costs mean limited access. Unstable connections decrease efficiency in work and enjoyment when you’re watching Netflix. Just think of the frustration when a movie stutters and then grinds to a halt.

The pandemic has only put a spotlight on the country’s Internet deficiencies. What should follow next is innovation.

ERRING

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4.  Erring

OPINION

By KLAUS DORING

 August 24, 2020

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

TO err is human - to forgive is divine. The British poet Alexander Pope (1688-1744) created this saying. And, in my opinion, he was so very right. Erring - having failed to adhere to the proper or accepted standards. How many times have we done something wrong?

In our daily life struggles, we also pass innumerable periods of splendid isolation and act, as William Shakespeare said, "Thoughts are free" by hurting and insulting relatives, friends, and colleagues. Many times we err, and, even if we know it, we don't care. BAHALA SILA...

Maybe we pray and ask for forgiveness. And, we are so sure of having our complimentary ticket in our pockets and pouches. Nobody is perfect - sure! Me too! Yes, I confess! But that's no excuse for broken promises.

How many times do we commit a mistake? How many times are we mistaken, or get astray? How many times do we sin?

How often do we catch ourselves being roving, wandering, and acting eccentric, changeable, capricious, and not dependable? Or, how many people in our surroundings do we meet daily, who err terribly on their decisions? I am not talking about the deviation from right or truth and the sins, blunders, and mistakes, which we make in our daily life.

To err is human, sure - but not if we err willfully, intentionally, or if legal premeditation is done. But the second part of my today's column here is much more important: forgiveness! Yes, forgiveness is divinity - meaning to say: godhead and theological together.

I looked into my dictionaries and found innumerable explanations: "If we can forgive, we are belonging to, or, we are having the nature of God. We might be holy, sacred, heavenly, or a superhuman -being a priest, a pastor, a clergy, or theologian!"

I guess it's already a wonderful situation, after being insulted or hurt by someone to hear the simple expression "SORRY!" Yes, it's coming from the bottom of the heart. "SORRY!" ... - and I ask God also to forgive all my sins and my wrongdoings to others.

Regarding "seeking forgiveness" we can find plenty of passages in our Holy Bible. The most touching part for me is being found in Proverbs 28:13: "You will never succeed in life if you try to hide your sins. Confess them and give them up, then God will show mercy to you!"

"Erring" taxi drivers never die out. When I returned from my last long trip before Covid-19 stopped all travel plans, I met one, asking me an extra charge of 50 Pesos because of the incalculable waiting period at the airport. The taxi number and company are noted. Just in case... Of course, I didn't pay the extra charge and boarded another taxi....

Yummy yummy in The Philippines

Sure: in Davao City, I trust the Agdao Market when buying seafood. My lunch today: fresh oysters, with cheese oven baked and a glass of white wine. Yummy yummy, indeed.

10 Most Beautiful Beach Resorts in the Philippines

By Christine Rogador

Verified Expert

Find out where the best beach resorts are in the Philippines. Aside from Palawan, which island and beach destinations in the country have the most stunning resorts? What's so special about them that make them worth the trip? Read on to learn more. 

Home to more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines has no shortage of beautiful and pristine beaches. This means that resorts and hotels are also aplenty. With tons of choices, it is sometimes hard to choose where to spend your holidays.

For some people, they would rather spend their money on trips and experiences rather than a place to sleep. But for others, a vacation is not complete without a luxurious resort to spend your downtime with.

No matter what you choose, it is important that you spend your holiday in a place where you can enjoy it. After all, it’s a vacation and you should at least treat yourself once in a while for a more comfortable stay.

We compiled the list of the most beautiful resorts in the Philippines to help you decide where your relaxing getaway should be.

10. Bohol Beach Club, Bohol

Photo from boholbeachclub.com.ph

Bohol Beach Club is famous for its private beach with powdery white sand lined up with palm trees and well-manicured grounds. Located in Panglao Island of Bohol, it's a picture-perfect tropical destination. They also have an outdoor pool surrounded by the garden which feels like an oasis more than anything else.

The resort offers 88 rooms with 80 deluxe rooms with a panoramic view of the ocean and the pool while the 8 Beach view Suites have their own unique view of the beach and the Bohol Sea. Rooms are all modern although with a touch of traditional Filipino style with the use of local handicrafts and wooden furniture.

Bohol Beach Club is also a good home base if you're going to try Bohol experiences such as snorkeling and diving. The resort is also pet-friendly and easy access friendly for people with special needs.

9. Plantation Bay Resort, Cebu

Photo from plantationbay.com

One of the most amazing resorts in Cebu, Plantation Bay is a tropical paradise that has one of the biggest privately-owned lagoons.

They offer spacious colonial-style rooms and villas that can accommodate even big families. They also have well-manicured grounds and excellent amenities such as award-winning restaurants, spa, pools, and scuba diving. 

The resort has easy access to the beach as well and offers several activities such as jet ski and banana boat ride. Plantation Bay is a popular beach resort for travelers who love to try Cebu activities while staying at a kid-friendly resort.

8. Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa, Coron Palawan

Photo from twoseasonsresorts.com

Two Seasons Coron Island Resort & Spa is a 5-star eco-friendly resort in Coron, Palawan. This resort is located in Bulalacao Island and offers 42 bungalows with a mix of tropical urban designs. They also offer a spa, infinity pool, bar and restaurant, sports center, fitness center, kids center, conference room, and a library.

It is also a 100 percent self-sustaining island resort and has its own desalination plant and uses solar panels to power the resort. Its location gives you the best homebase for availing Coron tour packages.

Two Seasons is also nestled in a lush tropical garden and the island is a turtle and giant clam sanctuary. So if you want to experience nature, this hotel is up to your alley. You can also enjoy the private beach, the sandbar, and a vibrant house reef.

7. Miniloc Island Resort, El Nido

Photo from elnidoresorts.com

Another pride of El Nido in Palawan is Miniloc Island Resort, an eco-discovery island resort. It offers guests a coastal village vibe with its native designed water and beachfront cottages. They also offer complimentary activities such as volleyball, table tennis, badminton, frisbee, soccer, billiards and kids activities.

Miniloc Island is also close to Bacuit Bay which makes popular attractions included in El Nido tours such as the lagoons accessible. The island has a house reef with varieties of marine species so swimming with fishes meters away from your accommodation is not a bad idea. 

6. Balesin Island Club

Photo from balesin.com   

Balesin Island Club in Quezon has been the talk of the town for the past few years. This resort island club is known for being exclusive and you can’t simply stay here even if you have the money.

Balesin Island Club is the first members-only resort in the country with seven villages patterned after some of the most alluring destinations around the world. These seven villages consist of Bali, Phuket, Mykonos, St. Tropez, Costa del Sol, and Toscana.

Everything is authentically recreated for each village - from the architecture, landscaping, interior design, and food. So it feels like you are visiting these world-class destinations in one location.

Balesin is 500-hectare tropical paradise located 60 nautical miles east of Manila and members can access it via 25 minutes plane ride from Manila.

5. Nay Palad, Siargao

Photo from naypalad.com

Nay Palad Hideaway (formerly Dedon Island Resort) is a luxury boutique accommodation in Siargao. It nestles between the forests and turquoise waters of Siargao. The resort has nine thatched villas with traditional Asian style mixed with contemporary designs.

They offer an outdoor bar, pools, children’s playground and quirky hanging pods around the property. You can relax to their manicured gardens with comfortable and stylish couches scattered around the property. It's a great place to relax to after a tiring but fun day of Siargao tours.

​4. Apulit Island, El Nido

Photo from elnidoresorts.com

Apulit is an eco-adventure island resort and it’s located in Taytay Bay in North-eastern Palawan. Known for its over-the-water cottages, this Philippine resort is set to one of the most amazing seascapes in El Nido.

They have 50 water cottages that combine the traditional Filipino architecture with contemporary design. All cottages are built on stilts with an amazing view of Taytay Bay, surrounding islets and limestone cliffs.

Even if Apulit is in the remote part of Palawan and surrounded by nothing but nature, the resort offers several activities to keep the guests entertained. They offer several sports facilities for volleyball, soccer, billiards, badminton, table tennis, and frisbee,  as well as other popular outdoor activities such as scavenger hunt and sand sculpture making.

3. Misibis Bay Resort, Albay

Photo from misibisbay.com    

A 5-hectare tropical getaway sitting on Cagraray Island in Albay, Misibis Bay is a beautiful and luxurious resort hiding in Bicol region. They offer rooms and beach-front facing private villas in traditional local designs with modern amenities.

The resort boasts amazing landscape, beautifully design pools and garden. They also offer kids room, activity center, conference rooms, fitness center, and spa.

If you get lucky, you might be welcomed by a traditional Ibalong dance, solidifying Filipino culture and aims to express warmth and goodwill to people.

2. Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa, Bohol

​​Photo from esakayaresort.com       

Eskaya Beach Resort and Spa in Bohol is the only Philippine resort included in the prestigious Small Luxury Hotel group and Rolls Royce Enthusiasts’ Club Yearbook - a book that features best luxury hotels and resorts in the world. This sums up the level of service and the beauty of the resort.

Located on the coast facing Bohol sea, Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa offers an infinity pool, private villas and a top-notch spa that sits in the on the top of a hill overlooking the sea. Private airport transfer and free use of a golf car, kayak and mountain bike are also included in the rates.

Activities around the resort include diving and snorkeling and just enjoying one of the best beaches in the Visayas. Make sure to add some Bohol activities to add to your travel itinerary.

1. Amanpulo Resort, Palawan

​Photo from aman.com

Amanpulo is a private island resort in Palawan, a province famous for its beautiful islets, emerald green waters, limestone cliffs, and amazing seascape. It is partially owned by Aman Resorts International - a luxury hotel group. So you can expect nothing but a luxurious off-grid vacation that is often associated with most Palawan tours.

Accessible only through a chartered or private plane, this private island boasts luxurious casitas and private villas. These casitas and villas were built using natural and mostly local materials. The experience also includes a private butler for the duration of your stay and private pool. Some villas even have their own personal chef.

For guests who want to remain physically fit even while on vacation can enjoy the tennis courts and free bicycles. And if one loves nature, Amanpulo is located in an island rich in indigenous faunas and birds - a proof that Amanpulo is one of the best resorts in the Philippines.

Detailed Guide to White Beach in Boracay

By Jessa Tek-Ing

Verified Expert

White Beach is a postcard-perfect destination in Boracay Island of the Philippines, known for its long stretch of powdery white sand beach, turquoise blue water, with towering palm trees in the background. 

Situated in the province of Aklan, White Beach is one of the best beaches in the Philippines, and has always been the star of the show in Boracay. Travelers from all over the Philippines and the world can’t help but admire its breathtaking beauty. 

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• Find Boracay tours that you can add to your itinerary

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Boracay Island has earned global recognition for its unique and natural charm. It’s been often cited as one of the world’s most beautiful islands because of its many tourist spots and activities that give thousands of vacationers countless memorable experiences throughout the year.

From waking up to the sound of the crashing waves to going out for long walks by the beach every morning, to sitting in the beach all day to enjoy the idyllic ocean view and swimming in the pristine blue water – there’s so much to satisfy one’s wanderlust craving in this tropical island destination.  

After its rehabilitation by the government, Boracay's White Beach is back with a beautiful make-over. The beach is more stunning and captivating than before. There’s a lot more space to bask under the sun in and stroll while being serenaded by the sound of the ocean.

Despite being one of the country’s most visited tourist destinations, which makes it crowded during most part of the year, Boracay never loses its charisma. There’s something about its long stretch of white beach and its unbeatable, magical sunsets that makes you go back over and over again.

It promises you nothing but an unforgettable experience and beautiful memories. Read on to learn more about White Beach in Boracay and how to plan your trip: 

Best Time to Go to White Beach in Boracay

The weather in Boracay is beautiful for the most part of the year, you can visit the island whenever your heart desires. However, it’s still better to consider factors such as high and low seasons so you can make the most out of your trip. 

Dry and Peak Season | December to May

In general. Boracay’s dry season starts from December during the Christmas holiday season. Its peak season is from March to May which is when summer break in the Philippines.

The famous colorful Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival, located in Aklan or the same province where Boracay is, happens in January. It's one of the best festivals in the Philippines, and is regarded as the country's version of Mardi Gras.

During holidays such as Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, and Lent or Holy Week (from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday), the island is prone to overcrowding, and hotel rates and fares significantly increase.

Wet and Off-Peak Season | June to November

The low or off-peak season takes place sometime around June to November when the temperature tends to be a bit cooler and scattered rain showers or tropical storms pass by.

Some people choose to go between these months because this is when most accommodations and airfare are cheaper. 

Climate and Weather

Rest assured that no matter what time of the year you choose, the weather will never be too chilly or too hot. The average high temperature is approximately 30 °C, while average lows are at around 25 °C.

The hottest month in Boracay usually falls from March to June, while the wettest month often falls from August to October. 

How to Get to White Beach in Boracay

Before traveling to Boracay, a printed voucher from your accredited resorts and hotels is required. You will be denied entry to the island if you don’t have a voucher from your resort or hotel.

This is part of the new rules that the local government and tourism office is implementing since the island opened to the public after the 2018 rehabilitation program.

Since White Beach is the top tourist spot and the main area for accommodations, restaurants, and activities in Boracay, getting here will be easy once you arrive on the island. Read our guide on how to get to Boracay via Caticlan Airport (Godofredo P. Ramos Airport) and Kalibo Airport. 

Once you're in the Caticlan Airport or Kalibo Airport, you have to travel to Caticlan Jetty Port, the main jump-off point to Boracay. From there, you will ride a boat going to Boracay Island. Then you will travel by land to get to White Beach. 

Via Caticlan Airport

This is the closest airport going to Boracay's White Beach. However, it's not located on the island itself. From Caticlan Airport, take a 10-15 minute tricycle ride going to Caticlan Jetty Port. 

Via Kalibo Airport

This airport is farther from Caticlan Jetty Port but is preferred by some travelers since the airfare is cheaper compared to flying to Caticlan Airport. From Kalibo, you can either ride a bus or a van going to Caticlan Jetty Port. Travel time is around 2 hours. 

Where to Stay in White Beach Boracay

White Beach stretches at approximately a total of 4km of white fine sand and crystal blue water that can be truly considered as world-class. It houses different varieties of hotels and beach resorts – ranging from the most luxurious 5-star hotels to the most affordable hostels. 

It is divided into 3 areas: Station 1, 2, and 3. Each section has something to offer depending on your preference in terms of ambiance, activities to do, and budget. 

White Beach Boracay Station 1

Photo by Discovery Shores Boracay

Known to be the most upscale location in White Beach, it is located at the northwestern section of the island. Home to some of the top and well-known hotels and resorts, Station 1 gives you the privilege of amazing beachfront accommodations and well-designed resorts.

Some of the top hotels located here are Discovery Shores Boracay, The Lind Boracay, Astoria, and White Beach Villas. 

White Beach Boracay Station 2

Photo by The District Boracay

Situated in the middle, it is deemed to be the heart of White Beach since this is where you can find most of the restaurants, shopping areas, and beach bars.

D’Mall which is the popular shopping center on the island is in Station 2 hence this part of White Beach becomes over-crowded at times. But if you are looking for places to stay near where the action is, then Station 2 is your best bet.

You can choose amongst accommodations such as The District Boracay, Hennan Garden Resort, HeyJude Boracay Resort, and La Carmela de Boracay. 

White Beach Boracay Station 3

Photo by Mandala Spa and Resort Villas

For travelers who want a more secluded and quieter atmosphere, Station 3 is the most recommended. Unlike Stations 1 and 2, this part of White Beach is not as developed yet hence there are fewer visitors and establishments in the area.

Tucked away from the center, most of the lodgings here are less expensive and more native in style. However, some private villas and beach resorts have started to emerge and build their properties in Station 3 nowadays.

Villa Oceana, Asya Premier Suites, and Mandala Spa & Resort Villas are some of the go-to accommodations in this setting.

What to See and Do in White Beach Boracay

Watch the Boracay Sunrise and Sunset

Waking up early during holidays may not sound ideal but with Boracay’s gorgeous sunrise, it surely is worth it.

Imagine the canvass of colors peeking through the sky as dawn turns into daylight. Feel inspired as you take in the early morning ocean breeze and enjoy the view in front of you. 

The best way to end your day while in Boracay is to watch the awe-inspiring sunset. It’s still a mystery to many how the most beautiful sunsets happen here. There’s something magical about witnessing the spectacular arrays of color burst into the sky.

You can simply sit by the beach with an ice-cold drink in hand and have the most amazing time. Each one of them is special as they never fail to amaze anyone who’s able to experience this exquisite moment. 

Enjoy Exciting Water Sports Activities

Adventure has no age limit in Boracay. Ride the waves in style, feel the wind in your face, and try something new.

For adrenaline junkies, the island offers different White Beach activities that will satisfy your craving for something exciting.

Stand up paddle on the beach, go kite surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.  You can also have the greatest time with your family and friends by trying fun water activities such as banana boating, fly fishing, and helmet diving.

If you want to go extreme, you can do parasailing where you will be treated with a birds-eye-view of the whole island from above while being pulled by a boat. 

Spend a Day Out at the Beach

Experience a relaxing day at White Beach. Take a stroll, swim to your heart’s content, or read a book and relax with a fresh coconut while basking under the tropical sun. Get lost in the moment as you listen to the sound of the waves and as the ocean breeze touches your skin. 

Indulge in the Local Food

Complete the experience by trying out true Filipino dishes and delicacies. You're not on a beach trip if you don't feat on seafood.

There are a lot of seafood restaurants on the island but if you want to experience how the locals do it, head on to D’Talipapa where you can buy fresh seafood ingredients. There are restaurants near the market that offer to cook them for you depending on the menu you prefer. 

More than the beach and the view, Boracay is sure to satisfy the foodie in you. Fresh fruits such as mango and coconuts are also available for you to enjoy. Go to Jonah’s Fruit Shake and Snack Bar and try their famous fruits shakes.

Experience Boracay’s Nightlife

Boracay was once dubbed as Asia’s very own Ibiza because of the island’s lively nightlife scene and events. However, after the island’s rehabilitation, bars and party places in Boracay are not as teeming as before.

But if ever you’re on the island, you can join the famed Boracay Pub Crawl where you can meet, mingle, and party with like-minded travelers. This will also let you experience different pubs and bars around White Beach. 

Practical Information and Tips

Boracay is back and it’s better than ever – more beautiful, cleaner, and with a more relaxing vibe to it. As part of our responsibility to take care of the island, below are some reminders: 

No Booking, No Entry

Make sure that you have booked your accommodation at Department of Tourism (DOT)- accredited hotels and resorts.

Bring Enough Cash

Most of the establishments in White Beach accept credit cards and there are ATM machines and money exchange centers around, but it’s still advisable to have emergency cash on hand. 

Smoking and Drinking Policies

Smoking is not allowed on the island. Drinking alcohol by the beach has been banned hence you can only drink inside the permitted bars. 

Be a Responsible Traveler

Remember that aside from being a popular holiday destination, Boracay is also the home for many locals. Show your concern by simply picking up your trash and following the rules implemented in the island.