20 Best Things to Do in the Philippines:

Explore Islands, Beaches, Festivals, Food and More

By Jessa Tek-Ing

Verified Expert

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

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

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

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

Photo by the Philippine Department of Tourism

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

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

20. Join Sightseeing Tours

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

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

19. Visit Museums

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

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

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

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

18. Go on a Pilgrimage Tour

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

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

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

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

17. Discover Wakeboarding

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

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

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

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

16. Explore Nature at National Parks

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

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

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

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

15. Experience River Tubing

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

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

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

14. Join Boat Tours or River Cruises

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

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

13. Caving and Spelunking

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

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

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

12. Relax in Natural Hot Springs

Photo by the Philippine Department of Tourism

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

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

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

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

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

11. Try 4x4 ATV Rides

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

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

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

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

10. Try Canyoneering

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

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

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

9. Go Surfing and Ride the Best Waves

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

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

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

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

8. Immerse in Historical and Heritage Tours

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

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

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

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

7. Go Hiking in the Best Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Plunge into Majestic Waterfalls

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

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

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

5. Diving and Snorkeling in Incredible Underwater Spots

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

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

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

4. Join Food Tours to Try Philippine Cuisine

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

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

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

3. Dance in Colorful Festivals

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

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

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

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

2. Lounge at the Best Beaches

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

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

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

1. Join Island Hopping Tours

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

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

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

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

Plan Your Ultimate Philippines Holiday

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

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

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

LOST IN THOUGHTS

Very often - sometimes too often! - the thought is back! If we wake up in the morning (or even many times in the middle of the night), the thought is back. Sometimes, the thought will not let us sleep. The "act of thinking". the "reflection", the "opinion" or the "serious consideration", no matter, how we describe it - our memory and conscience is always with us as a permanent companion. Especially now in times of Coronavirus.

We brood over unsettled problems. Sometimes we also bear unfair treatments, arrogance, ignorance, incompetent know-it-all-betters, and unbearable oddballs, who inexorable love to make our life a hell while living themselves a disorderly life.

We would not like to be distracted, but we're toying with some good ideas how we could throw overboard all that "human garbage". What will come next is a matter of conjecture.

Of course, I've got my ideas, but I'm not a mind reader. Too many trains of thought make us thoughtless and absent-minded especially in difficult and important daily life situations.

Does waiting and/or sleeping solve our problems? Or is it just again in time? Our life's central idea should not be, that while waiting, time solves all our problems. Thoughts should intensify, condense and deepen plans followed by actions.

It's good and helpful to carry thoughts in us all the time. Incomprehensible, or better unfinished and un-matured thoughts, no matter whether positive or negative, should be slept on, before tiredness outstrips us with supersonic speed.

Sometimes we feel that our thoughts and ideas can't be fulfilled with life. Where the heart is willing, it will find a thousand ways; but where the heart is weak, it will find a thousand excuses. If doubts begin to take roots, we should rouse from pink-tinted idealism or wear down and annihilate nightmares and erase and wipe out such thoughts and ideas.

If our thoughts are good and have the chance to be fulfilled in action, especially if "the other side" is prepared and willing to step on to such a bridge of life, we might get support and words of encouragement.

And, if not? No action? Maybe it is God's will to keep and protect us from a careless, rash, disadvantageous and uneasy action. Every new day gives us new inexhaustible possibilities to survive, to bear trials and to start a new beginning. We overlook and fail to notice many chances to lie through our sluggishness and laziness while thinking and dreaming of unequaled and unfulfilled ideas.

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

Reisehinweise des Auswärtigen Amtes für die Philippinen per 3. August 2020

Aktuelles

Aufgrund der Ausbreitung von COVID-19 https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/service/fragenkatalog-node/faq-reisewarnung/-/2309820und damit einhergehenden Einschränkungen im internationalen Luft- und Reiseverkehr sowie Beeinträchtigungen des öffentlichen Lebens wird vor nicht notwendigen, touristischen Reisen nach in die Philippinen weiterhin gewarnt.

Bis auf weiteres ist Ausländern die Einreise in die Philippinen landesweit verboten; erteilte philippinische Einreise-Visa wurden für ungültig erklärt, neue Visa werden derzeit nicht ausgestellt. Ausnahmen gelten ausschließlich für Flugzeugbesatzungen, für Familienangehörige (Ehegatten, Kinder, Eltern) von philippinischen Staatsangehörigen, für Diplomaten und Angehörige internationaler Organisationen, die in den Philippinen akkreditiert sind, sowie ab 1. August für Ausländer, die bereits im Besitz einzelner Kategorien von Langzeitvisa sind. Einreisende sind zur Durchführung eines COVID-19-Tests am philippinischen Ankunftsflughafen verpflichtet und unterliegen nach Einreise einer 14-tägigen Quarantänepflicht.

Eine Ausreise ist Ausländern, die sich im Land aufhalten, jederzeit erlaubt.

Die zwischenzeitlich unterbrochenen regulären Verkehrsverbindungen zwischen den Inseln des Landes wurden teilweise wieder aufgenommen, können jedoch jederzeit kurzfristig wieder eingestellt werden. Die touristische Infrastruktur ist seit Beginn der Covid-Pandemie stark eingeschränkt, zahlreiche Hotels und Resorts sind weiterhin geschlossen. Die Regierung der Philippinen hat die seit Mitte März 2020 geltenden, landesweiten Quarantänemaßnahmen zuletzt am 30. Juli 2020 mit der „IATF Resolution No. 60“ geändert. Es bestehen weiterhin umfangreiche Einschränkungen bei Versorgung und Bewegungsfreiheit. Es gelten variable nächtliche Ausgangssperren im Zeitraum von 20 Uhr bis 5 Uhr.

• Wenn Sie zurzeit zu Gast in den Philippinen sind, prüfen Sie Rückreiseoptionen und nutzen Sie vorhandene Ausreisemöglichkeiten. Die Reisemöglichkeiten aus den Philippinen sind zurzeit beschränkt, jedoch werden weiterhin einige Verbindungen angeboten, die Ausländer nutzen können.

• Verfolgen Sie die lokalen Medien, und folgen Sie den Anweisungen der Behörden.

• Informieren Sie sich auf der Internetseite der Deutschen Botschaft Manila, auf Facebook und auf Instagram.

• Falls Sie im Besitz eines Langzeitvisums sind, erkundigen Sie sich bei den philippinischen Behörden, in Deutschland z.B. bei der philippinischen Botschaft, ob Sie zur Gruppe derjenigen gehören, für die eine Wiedereinreise möglich ist.

Komplizierte Situation um Flüge auf die Philippinen

 

 

Die Situation um Flüge auf die Philippinen ist momentan etwas kompliziert.

Richtig ist, dass Philippinischen Staatsangehörigen und deren Ehepartnern und Kindern sowie Diplomaten und Personen mit Langzeitvisa (ab 01.08.) die Einreise in die Philippinen wieder gestattet wird.

ABER: Die Philippinische Regierung möchte die Zahl der Einreisenden nach wie vor möglichst gering halten. Darum gibt es seit Monaten schon so genannte „arrival limits“ – also eine maximale Anzahl an geduldeten internationalen arrivals. In den letzten Wochen lag dieses Limit in Manila bei 1.200 bis 2.000 Personen pro Tag (je nach Quelle). Nur zum Vergleich: 2019 waren es im Schnitt über 30.000 int. arrivals pro Tag!

Wir und auch die Länderbüros der Airlines kennen den Verteilungsschlüssel nicht, mit dem diese wenigen erlaubten arrivals auf die Airlines und Routen aufgeteilt werden. Fakt ist aber, dass derzeit nur wenige Airlines wegen dieser Limitierung überhaupt Umstiegsverbindungen von Europa oder Amerika aus auf die Philippinen anbieten. Die wenigen, die man momentan findet, sind dazu a) sehr teuer (das könnte eine Limitierungsmaßnahme der Airline sein) und werden b) kurz vor Abflug sehr oft und ohne Vorankündigung ersatzlos gestrichen.

Die Buchung eines solchen Fluges ist also nicht nur kostspielig, sondern auch absolutes Glücksspiel. Da wir die Durchführung dieser Flüge derzeit nicht ansatzweise garantieren können, bieten wir bis auf Weiteres keine Tickets für die Route Europa-Philippinen mit Abflug bis mindestens Ende August an.

Dies gilt nicht für Flüge AB den Philippinen – die sind möglich, siehe unsere Infoschiene „Infos für alle Reisenden, die noch auf den Philippinen sind“.

Beobachten kann man, dass die wenigen arrival slots aktuell eher mit Direktverbindungen aus Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Singapur, Hongkong etc. (also meist heimkommende OFWs) als mit Umstiegsverbindungen aus Europa und Amerika gefüllt werden.

Sie werden ab August in Manila wohl auf 5.000 arrivals/Tag angehoben (auch die Kapazitäten in Cebu und Clark werden leicht erhöht): https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/…/more-inbound-intl-passenger…

Im Vergleich zu Vor-Corona natürlich immer noch minimal, aber vielleicht hat es trotzdem einen positiven Effekt auf das Ticketangebot für Interkontinentalflüge auf die Philippinen. Das wird man dann wohl im Verlauf der nächsten Wochen sehen.

Beachten Sie abgesehen von diesem Buchungsumstand die immer noch sehr restriktiven Bestimmungen auf den Philippinen selber. Also selbst wenn es Ihnen gelingt, eine Verbindung zu buchen, auf der Sie auch tatsächlich mitgenommen werden, erwarten Sie auf den Philippinen nach wie vor strenge Quarantänemaßnahmen und Reisebeschränkungen.

Wir bleiben natürlich am Ball und werden Sie weiterhin mit Infos versorgen.

Bleiben Sie gesund, Ihr Kirschner Reisen Team!

HOW BEING ISOLATED HAVE ALTERED US

Did our personalities are shaped by our experiences and social interactions? Being isolated from friends, family, and colleagues is indeed strong tobacco for all of us.


There wasn’t just one lock-down – we all had our own experience. Some people - including me and my family - were forced into months of unbroken solitude, others trapped for weeks on end with an estranged spouse. Some saw it as a positive experience – a welcome opportunity to slow down, go for walks and relax with a loving partner, or enjoy quality time with the children.



Whichever way the lock-down played out, there has been one near-universal aspect to the past months – it abruptly disrupted our daily routines and living arrangements in ways that would not normally occur. Nothing new. And we don't know how long this will last.



The Senior editor at Aeon+Psyche Christian Jarrett asks interesting questions: Will this strange time have left its mark on us, not just superficially, but deep down? As we venture out tentatively, do we do so with our personalities somehow altered? And if so, how will our new selves cope as we begin to mix and travel once again?



I strongly agree with his answers. For much of psychology’s history, personality – the set of enduring habits of behavior, emotion, and thought that form each person’s unique identity – was considered set in stone, at least beyond early adulthood. Research over the last few decades, however, has led to a consensus that, while personality traits are relatively stable, they are not completely fixed. Instead, they continue to evolve through life and in response to major life events.



In other words, from a theoretical perspective, there is every possibility that at least some of us will have been left changed by the lock-down.



Honestly, I have problems getting along without the usual daily face-to-face contact with friends, family, and colleagues. Anecdotal evidence seems to suggest the same. Although conscious that I’ve been more fortunate than many in my experience of the pandemic so far, I also know that I’ve been feeling less stressed due to less rushing around, but also more withdrawn and introverted. Friends of mine (also not too adversely affected) agree they feel different – more reflective, perhaps, but also less sociable. In one of my previous write-ups at this corner, I praised my status at the home office. Maybe you still remember it?



The many months of changes to our routines may have led to changes in our behavior that will stick long after the pandemic has finished. It “may lead to new norms, which may over time also shape our personalities,” says Wiebke Bleidorn at the Personality Change Laboratory at the University of California, Davis. I am sure, she is so very true.

DTI-DdO distributes livelihood kits to 100 MSMEs

Davao de Oro --- Some 100 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in 20 identified barangays in the province received livelihood starter kits under the DTI’s Livelihood Seeding Program–Negosyo Serbisyo sa Barangay (LSP-NSB) on Friday.

DTI Davao de Oro Provincial Director, Atty. Lucky Siegfred M. Balleque said the first twenty beneficiaries that received a package of livelihood kits amounting to PHP5,000 were residents of barangay Bawani, Mawab. The LSP-NSB also aims to boost micro enterprises by providing basic business advisory and information to qualified individuals affected by natural and human-induced calamities such as pandemic brought by COVID-19.

“This livelihood assistance may be small but with a right entrepreneurial mindset, it can push your business into a better position”, Balleque added.

The MSME beneficiaries of the LSP-NSB program include sole proprietors that are located in identified barangays, including those in Geographically Isolated and Depressed Areas (GIDAs) under the government’s End Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) program. They also underwent four modules of capability building seminar to develop and strengthen their entrepreneurial competencies during the turn-over ceremony.

For his part, Mayor Ruperto S. Gonzaga III acknowledged the government’s program to his constituents in teaching and helping them improve their businesses thru series of sessions.

Rosie T. Ignas, beneficiary from Brgy. Bawani expressed gratitude for granting her as one of the beneficiaries of LSP-NSB program.

“Dako kaayu ning tabang dili lang kay sa akua apil na usab sa uban pang naka-benepisyo sa maong programa gikan sa gobyerno nga magamit ug ma sustain sa matag-adlaw namu nga panginahanglanon labaw na sa kapait sa panahon nga dala sa pandemya,” Ignas added.

The program is in partnership with provincial and local government units. The barangay LGU has a fundamental role in identifying the MSMEs in their areas who have potential of becoming mega business.

DTI-DdO targets to finish the distribution of livelihood kits by the end of October. 

(Rheafe C. Hortizano, Information Division Davao de Oro).

Davao de Oro celebrates Nature’s Day

Davao de Oro Province--- From the most complex products such as medicine, clothing, furniture and food down to raw materials come from nature. As mankind’s life was brought to greatest heights for ages, nature is always behind its back and it is our duty to replenish the favor.

With this, in cognizance to the Provincial Ordinance No. 15-2012, PLGU-Davao de Oro celebrated the “Nature’s Day” spearheaded by the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources office (PENRO) with the theme “Time for Nature.”

This year Nature’s Day was celebrated at the Provincial Rehabilitation Center, Sta. Maria, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro wherein Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy with Board Members Vivencia L. Secuya, Nena G. Atamosa, Macario T. Humol, Raul C. Timogtimog, Charlemagne Bautista, Joseph T. Jauod, Nicky R. Opisan, DepEd representative Division’s Chief Ruben Reponte, PLGU Executive Committee Members and NGA representatives pressed the earth’s bosom by planting trees in the grounds of the rehabilitation Center.

The pandemic does not solely brought fear among the hearts of individuals, but it also brought most of us back into nature’s welcoming hands through planting ornamental plants, vegetable gardening and tree planting reviving green thumbs and relieving boredom due to months of lockdown.

Trees are of great help. From its trunks down to its roots can be used for various purposes. Aside from giving off fresh air, prevention from landslide and shelter for animals it also gives comfort in times of weariness and stress and even play an important role in combating climate change.

The tree planting activity was held at the rehabilitation center as it will provide additional comfort and beautify the area as our detained brothers and sisters will redeem themselves to a journey for a much better life.

(Jasteen P. Abella, Information Division, Davao de Oro, photo by Albert Dayao)

Wake Up in Northern Mindanao | Philippines Tourism Ad

Philippines reimposes non-essential foreign travel restriction for citizens

By VIRGIL LOPEZ, GMA News

The Philippines reimposed the restriction on non-essential outbound travel for Filipinos, Malacañang announced Thursday.

In a televised briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the government’s COVID-19 task force made the decision since only one insurance company agreed to provide travel and health insurance in relation to the pandemic.

However, those with confirmed bookings as of July 20, 2020 will be allowed to leave the country subject to the conditions imposed by the government. The task force earlier lifted the ban on non-essential overseas travel on July 6.

Under the guidelines, a traveler must have adequate travel and health insurance to cover rebooking and accommodation expenses if stranded, and hospitalization in case of infection.

A traveler must also submit confirmed round trip tickets for those traveling on tourist visas.

Roque also announced that the government allowed the resumption of essential outbound travel for Filipinos.

Essential trips include those for business and work, medical, emergency and other humanitarian reasons which cannot be postponed, the task force said.

The conditions include a declaration signifying knowledge and understanding of the risks involved and compliance with the guidelines for returning Filipinos. —KBK, GMA News

DAVAO CITY ALSO IMPOSES STRICTER COVID-19 SCREENING FOR LAND TRAVELERS

The Davao City government has also strengthened the health screening at the entry and exit checkpoints for land travellers entering and exiting the city.

Davao City Mayor Inday Sara Duterte on Monday said that the people arriving from other Mindanao airports that do not require a negative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) and travel by land to the city will be screened at the checkpoints.

“Gipakusgan napud nato atong mga land checkpoints sa entry and exits diri sa Davao City, because we expect na dunay musakay sa ubang airport tapos mag by-land sila padulong diri sa atoa (We have also strengthened screening at our entry and exit checkpoints in Davao City because we expect that there are passengers who landed from other airports and will enter the city by land),” she said.

The Task Force (TF) Davao has created a screening process to check the travel history of passengers entering the city. TF Davao will also coordinate with the City Health Office (CHO) if ever they find Davao residents who arrived from other airports.

Mayor Inday Sara said the TF Davao has also improved the health screening at the checkpoints.“For the past two weeks naa tay gina-construct nga mga facilities para mas ma-paspas nato ang health screening nato dinha sa mga checkpoints nato (For the past two weeks we constructed facilities to speed-up the health screening at the checkpoints),” Mayor Sara added.

The thermal scanner was already installed at the Lasang checkpoint on July 19 while the installation in the Sirawan checkpoint will be done on July 21 and on July 25 at the Lacson checkpoint.Mayor Sara also said the city may conduct a voluntary and random RT-PCR testing for land travellers if the number of cases with a history of land travel will increase. This was previously done for air passengers due to the surge of positive cases since the resumption of commercial flights in Davao International Airport.

“We’ll see with the numbers because makita man nato kung unsay history or unsay exposure sa usa ka-confirmed Covid-19 case (We’ll see with the numbers because we can identify that with the history and exposure of a confirmed Covid-19 case),” she said.

Air travelers entering Davao City are required to present before boarding the negative result of RT PCR test conducted within 72 hours before the trip.Davao City had earlier required Davao-bound passengers to submit upon check-in at any airport of origin a negative RT-PCR result taken 48 hours before the departure date as one of the measures to control the transmission of the coronavirus infection.The requirement was adjusted to 72 hours.The city government was prompted to require a negative RT-PCR after the data from the City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit showed that the highest confirmed Covid-19 cases in Davao City were travellers from Manila. CIO

Philippine Bureau of Immigration Press Release

21 July 2020
PRESS RELEASE

Only permanent residents can enter PH starting August 1, BI clarifies

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Immigration (BI) clarified that only foreigners with permanent or immigrant visas can enter the country starting August 1.

"For the information of the public, the entry of foreign tourists, non-immigrant visa holders, and other categories of aliens are still prohibited. They will be turned back if they land in any of our ports of entry," BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said.

The BI Chief issued the statement upon learning that immigration offices at the airports, and other field offices of the Bureau were being swamped with calls and queries from persons who wrongly thought that the country has opened its doors to all foreigners.

"The resolution of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) is clear - only foreigners with existing long-term visas will be allowed entry beginning August 1. So if you are not a permanent resident here, do not attempt to travel to the Philippines because you will be excluded and denied entry by our immigration officers," Morente said.

He appealed to the public to stop spreading fake news that all foreigners are now welcome to enter the Philippines as it will only sow confusion, and create chaos in our airports if there is a sudden surge in the arrival of foreigners still covered by the travel ban.

According to BI Port Operations Division Acting Chief Grifton Medina, there are only four visa categories of aliens who will be allowed entry starting next month.

Medina said these aliens must fall under the following categories: those who were issued non-immigrant visas under Section 13 of the Immigration act; those who acquired resident status under Republic Act 7919 or Alien Social Integration Act; those who availed of Executive Order 324 or Alien Legalization Program; and native-born foreign nationals.

Medina also stressed that foreigners married to Filipinos and their dependents, as well as foreign diplomats, can also come here as earlier resolved by the IATF.

"We are therefore advising the different airlines to take note of these latest travel guidelines so that they can accordingly inform their foreign customers who may wish to book their flights to the Philippines," the BI official said.

Medina added that the BI does not expect a major upsurge in foreign arrivals despite the lifting of entry restrictions on immigrant visa holders as the Bureau's records indicate that there are only about 15,000 of them who are stranded abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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)