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phgq · 4 years

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Largest dive expo in PH launched

#PHnews: Largest dive expo in PH launched

MANILA – The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday launched the country's largest dive expo in time for the gradual activation of dive tourism in various Philippine destinations and abroad.

The virtual edition of the Philippine International Dive Expo (PHIDEX) this year aims to raise awareness and discuss solutions to accelerate the industry’s recovery for the new normal.

“As the Philippines is known around the world for its diving destinations, it is truly important that we do everything we can to sustain the local diving industry," Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said in a speech.

"This year’s PHIDEX is a step in the right direction to sustain our gains toward recovery, for all to enjoy the natural wonders our archipelago can provide,” she added.

This year’s PHIDEX will host discussions and talks by a number of experts when it comes to the sea, including California Academy of Sciences Curator Dr. Terry Gosliner, French-British underwater photographer Henley Spiers, and Emmy Award-winning husband-and-wife documentary team Howard and Michele Hall, PADI Ambassador and PCSSD Commissioner Bo Mancao, University of the Philippines marine economist Tara Abrina, and German underwater photographer Tobias Friedrich, to name a few.

The event's website https://phidex.asia will also serve as a space for divers and enthusiasts to purchase experiences and equipment from partners and exhibitors.

The Philippines is known for its breath-taking dive spots spread across different regions, including Anilao in Batangas; Panglao, Balicasag and Cabilao in Bohol; Moalboal and Malapascua in Cebu, Coron and Tubbataha in Palawan, Dauin in Negros Oriental; Sipalay in Negros Occidental; Camiguin and Misamis Oriental; Davao; Donsol in Sorsogon; and Ticao Island in Masbate.

While the industry is still reeling from the effects of the health crisis, Tourism Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr. is optimistic dive tourism would bounce back.

"I think one thing that we witnessed is that the pandemic has compelled many destinations to reboot or press the reset button and many of them are rethinking their development approaches with respect to tourism," he said in a press briefing.

"I think there's a consensus that the destinations will go for the low impact, low density but high-value kind of tourism which is actually good for the Philippines because then we'll be able to put a premium on our natural assets," he added.

As early as Oct. 2020, Romulo-Puyat said dozens of dive shops have already reopened in the Philippines, now equipped with proper health and safety protocols to prevent the spread of Covid-19 when catering to recreational divers.

"Since we've started slow but sure reopening of tourism destinations, [there had been] no outbreak of Covid because of tourism. Not because of tourism," she said.

Despite this, she reiterated the government's call on the public to remain "cautious" and to strictly follow the minimum health standards at all times. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Largest dive expo in PH launched." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1134196 (accessed March 19, 2021 at 10:27PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Largest dive expo in PH launched." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1134196 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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ajmtravelflamingo-blog · 5 years

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Albay, Bicol

Albay is a province composed of 15 towns and 3 cities.

The capital of the province is Legazpi City. It was named after Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, the Spanish conquestador who came to the Philippines in 1565 and started the massive colonization. The country became the colony of Spain for the next 300 years. As a result, the Albayanos became devout Catholics.

The symbol most associated with Albay is Mayon Volcano, a near perfectly-shaped active volcano, 2,462 metres (8,077 ft) high, which could be seen throughout its 13 towns and 3 cities as well as in the surrounding provinces of Sorsogon, Masbate and Catanduanes.

HISTORY

Long before the Spaniards arrived in 1569, Albay had a thriving civilization and a rich culture. The land was fertile, lush vegetation covered the plains and the mountains. The earth yielded minerals, including gold.

In July 1569, Luis Enriquez de Guzman, a member of the Spanish expedition led by Legazpi, and the Agustinian Fray Alonso Jimenez landed in the southeastern side of the region, in a town called Gibalong and travelled by land until they reached the town of Camalig, now almost in the heart of Albay and at the foot of Mayon Volcano.

Catholicism was first introduced to the Bikolanos in 1569. The coming of the Franciscans in 1578 started a systematic and sustained process of Catholic conversion. In 1572, Juan de Salcedo, in search of gold, penetrated the Bicol Peninsula from the north and made it as far south as Libon, establishing the very first settlement called Santiago de Libon.

In 1574 the Spanish adventurers in Bikol returned to Manila with over 4,000 ounces of gold. They believed they have found the land of “El Dorado.”

In April 3, 1574 the place called “Baybayon” became an encomienda assigned by Philippine Governor General Guido de Lavesares to Juan Guerra. This place would later be called ““Baybay”, then “Al Baybay” and later shortened to “Albay.”

LANGUAGES

Bikol is the primary language spoken in Albay. It has many dialects, specially in inner towns.The majority of the Albayanos also understand and could speak English and Filipino.

The official documents are mostly in English. Most of the local daily newspapers are in English. About 95 percent of the books and publications in its libraries are in English. About 80 percent of the movies in theaters and television are English and Hollywood movies. Signage in stores and public facilities and restaurant menus are in English.

Entertainment centers and service facilities like banks and hospitals, by night or day, are manned by personnel who are fluent in Bikol, Filipino and English, a few could understand Spanish, Chinese, Japanese and Korean.

ECONOMY

Agriculture is the major industry in Albay, which produces crops like coconut, rice, sugar, and abacá.

Handicrafts are the major source of rural income. It continues to provide fairly large share in the small-scale industries of the province.

Forestry, cement production and paper-making are other sources of livelihood. The manufacture of abacá products like Manila hemp, hats, bags, mats, and slippers is one of the main sources of income in the rural areas.

Fishing is the main livelihood along both shores of the province.

Tourism is a sunshine industry and the Provincial Government’s current major focus.

TRANSPORTATION

By water, Albay is the region’s principal trans-shipment point with its sea ports: Tabaco International, Legazpi National, Pio Duran Provincial, and the Pantao Regional Port.

By air, the Legazpi Airport is the entry point for most of the travellers going to any province of the region. The airport is also the region’s gateway from Manila and Cebu City in the Visayas. The larger South Luzon International Airport is under construction in the municipality of Daraga, west of Legazpi City.

By train, since March 2012, train service from Manila to Albay and vice versa, has been resumed by the Philippine National Railways. The Mayon Limited is a 10 1/2-hour one-way trip between Manila and Ligao City with the extension to Legazpi under construction.

By land, the province is accessible through many highways (460 kilometers) from Manila, and from other parts of the country. The main roads of the province are all well-paved and maintained.

TOURIST SPOTS

The Cagsawa Ruins

The Cagsawa Ruins (also spelled as Kagsawa or Cagsaua) are the remnants of a 16th-century Franciscan church, the Cagsawa church. It was originally built in the town of Cagsawa in 1587 but was burned down and destroyed by Dutch pirates in 1636. It was rebuilt in 1724 by Fr. Francisco Blanco, but was destroyed again, along with the town of Cagsawa, on February 1, 1814, during the eruption of the Mayon Volcano.

The ruins of the Cagsawa church now stands as the site of the Cagsawa Ruins Park, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Albay. It is also the site of the Cagsawa Branch of the National Museum of the Philippines, also known as the Cagsawa National Museum. The museum was established on land that was donated by the municipality of Daraga to the National Museum on January 26, 1981.

It was formally inaugurated on October 30, 1992 and is the third largest regional branch of the National Museum. It houses a collection of photographs of the volcanic eruptions of Mount Mayon as well as various geological and archeological exhibits.

In addition, Cagsawa also provides all-terrain-vehicle (ATV) tours which allow tourists to trail down the lava front in Barangay Mabinit.

Kawa Kawa Hill and Natural Park

It is called Kawa- kawa as its shape resembles a cauldron (Kawa or Caldero in Bikol anguage) . Because of this unique shape is of the same reason why it is also called a hill without a hilltop.

The Hill has become a famous religious destination especially during Holy week because of the larger than life statues depicting the Stations of the Cross. The Kawa-Kawa Hill is where the native folks hold their penitence during holy week. They have larger than life statues depicting the Stations of the Cross. Going to each of the stations under scorching heat is a sacrifice already. But this is one-of-a-kind seeing life-like figures.

Unlike any other hill, Kawa-Kawa has a concave or cratered top instead of a convex or rounded one. It got its name from this curious shape that resembles a “kawa” or cauldron.

Its unique crater summit, which spans six hectares, has been likened to an amphitheater. This is why Kawa-Kawa is also often referred to as “the hill without a hilltop.”

This hill in California Village, Barangay Tuburan, Ligao is 236 meters high. From the topmost part of Kawa-Kawa, visitors have a clear view of the whole of Ligao and neighboring towns as well as sprawling green fields and nearby Mt. Masaraga and Mt. Mayon.

Kawa-Kawa is also a popular pilgrim site because of the larger than life statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross decorating the last 500 meters to the crater and all around its 836-meter rim.

One of the activities at Kawa-Kawa is horseback riding. The Philippine Eagles Scout Advancement Camp and Facilities and a volleyball court can also be found in the area.

The hill slopes are planted with dinorado (high-quality mountain rice), pineapple and vegetables to promote agriculture and environmental awareness.

Getting to Kawa-Kawa Hill

Kawa Kawa Hill is two kilometers away from Ligao’s city center. Ligao is 27 kilometers away from the Provincial Capitol of Albay and approximately 30 kilometers from Legazpi City.

Vans and jeepneys regularly serve the Legazpi-Ligao route. You can find these vans and jeepneys at the Legazpi Grand Central Terminal.

Danao Lake

The world’s smallest commercially available fish (Pandaca Pygmea) makes this mountaintop lake in Barangay Danao, Polangui its home. The rare tabios or sinarapan, which is one of Bicol’s indigenous delicacies, is usually cooked wrapped in banana leaves and steamed or in coconut milk. Anglers as big as eels as well as other kinds of fresh water species can also be found here.

Danao Lake is located 500 meters above sea level and about 20 kilometers away from the town center. It is surrounded by lush and verdant vegetation where animals graze freely, usually when rice-planting season is over.

Getting to Danao Lake

The town of Polangui, where Danao Lake is situated, is around 40 kilometers from the Albay capital of Legazpi City. Vans bound for Polangui park at the Legazpi Grand Central Terminal. There are also jeepneys that ply the Legazpi to Polangui route.

Located at barangay Danao, Polangui, Albay with a land elevation of about 500 meters above sea level and with a distance of about 20 km. from the town.

Lake Danao is still about 20 kilometers from the town of Polangui and involves a 30-minute hike through carabao trails and abaca plantations. It is best visited with a local guide in tow.

Ligñon Hill Nature Park

Long and winding road leads up to a circular viewing deck constructed on top of a hill in Legazpi City. Ligñon Hill provides a vantage view of scenic Legazpi City, Albay Gulf, and Mayon Volcano.

Aside from sightseeing, Ligñon Hill offers enjoyable to challenging pursuits for all types of visitors.

Guests can choose from several adventure and extreme sports activities, including a zipline ride, rapelling, biking on gullies at the foot of Mt. Mayon, ATV rides, trail climb, and tunnel exploration.

At the concrete pavilion close to the viewing deck, visitors may enjoy the view, take their snacks, buy local products, or view art and photo exhibits by local artists.

Operating hours: 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Joggers are free of charge from 5 a.m.-9 a.m. Entrance fees: P10 (educational tour participants), P20 (non-Albay residents and foreigners)

Getting to Ligñon Hill:

– From the Legazpi City Airport: Turn right to Magayon Drive (you will pass through a private subdivision) and then turn left at the junction with Bogtong Road. Continue until you reach the tennis courts, just before the gate to the Albay Wildlife Park. You may start your trek up the hill at the entrance (near the tennis courts). You can also drive your vehicle up the hill.

– From Legazpi Port: A Legazpi-Daraga Loop 1 jeepney will take you directly to the foot of the hill.

– From Daraga: Take a tricycle from the centro to Tagas and ask the drive to drop you off at the tennis courts.

Happy Travelling!

#travel philippines #albay

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christianreybariso · 7 years

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Don't let the shadows of yesterday spoil the sunshine of tomorrow. Live for today! Follow & Like our Page: www.fb.com/BuriasEscapade Photograph © Christian Rey Bariso . . . . . . . . . . #buriasescapade #awesome #ichooseph #philippines #island #buriasvideography #underwaterphotography #travelphotography #travel #adventure #explore #wanderlust #wanderer #paradise #roadtrip #chooseph #choosephilippines #friends #selfie #instapic #bestoftheday #photo #photooftheday #follow4follow #followme #zenfone3photo #burias #masbate #sunshoot (at Sombrero Island, Burias Island, Masbate)

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lemonades8ginghams-blog · 7 years

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14 Things Challenge: Results are in

Hello, everyone-still-living-past-February-14!

Whether you are taken or single, Valentines day is one special day we cannot take for granted. Valentines is all about love and if you’re not part of that very-bitter demographic, you are undeniably aware that love comes in many mysterious (and obvious) ways. There’s self, family, friends, partners and your average ‘kapwa’. So in any special holiday, you make most of it. If you ain’t got snow, then you make the shaved coconut fall on your puto bumbong; and when you are single, you make love with the world! Or maybe I’m just a sucker for a good game? Or both?

I have pledged to make-do of my V-day. Call it a distraction, boredom or an outlandish quirk but in an uncontrollable world, being single on Valentines day is one of the best things that has occurred to mankind since birth control. No frills, no expectation-versus-reality montages and more, more fun! Don’t believe me? Then get one, hater! An opinion, I mean. So here are the results:

1. Be vegan for a day

So yeah! Based on the aptly-made presentation above...it was a major fail! Such a failure that I blacked-out and just photographed the finished plate and didn’t bother to continue being vegan since I already failed (yeah, i had a fudge sundae that night). On perhaps the easiest task in the entire list, I just had to explain myself. I went fielding today and when lunchtime came, there were no veggies in sight and I was so freaking hungry and i was too abashed to say ‘No’ to the midwife who brought the food. Lesson learned: When on a specific diet, bring your own food, you pig!

2. Do 20 burpees

Woke too early to do this and it was great! And yes, my stomach muscles are still aching to this day. Credits to my friendship, Rosalyn, for this suggestion.

3. Bring sweets and greet people “Happy Valentines"

This is especially useful too. Since I am still virtually new at the office, offering a little something to everyone allows me to talk to people who I have not interacted yet. Who says only lovers get chocolates on Valentines?

4. Wear pink

WE WEAR PINK ON WEDNESDAY! In the spirit of Mean-girling-my-way-through-life, i just had to get people on board with this. Thank you to my beautiful namesakes for getting on the bus with me. You deserve a rose-colored life ahead! Who else wore pink that day?

5. Buy flowers in Mason jars to give to two special people

Two flowers? CHECK. Two Mason Jars? CHECK

So this needs a little adjustment. My mom obviously would appreciate a jar of flowers, but no one else in my household would. So I just placed two flowers in a jar and gave my other extra special person some colored hair extensions. Cause why the hell not? hahaha

6. Help a friend get a date with his crush

That’s two down on my list. Due to unforeseen circumstances, this one went down the drain. A little glad because I was exhausted the whole day, but majorly disappointed because I was not able to sleep the night before; planning routes, scripts and strategies to pull this off. I talked this through with my “team” and hopefully we do a re-run in the “future”.

7. Bring toys to kids in the rural area when I go fieldin’

What a wonderful sight to see kids smile for the simplest things. But when the children disperse and the whole bag was attacked by a bunch of grown-up BHW’s, I think I kinda want to close my eyes. I know its all going to their kids, but it’s just probably not what I expect to see happening. Oh well...

8. Write a valentines note in a public restroom

This was fairly quick. Not gonna say where I placed that note so here’s a clue:

So if you saw it and was something you needed that day...”You’re welcome. The universe got your back!”

9. Get one of my single guy friend to give flowers to a random single girl

Okay this is gonna sound a bit edgy.

I sooo tried to have any of my single guy friends to do this and the response I get has pyscho-analytically clicked as to why these friends of mine are still so fucking single. Anyways, what conspired is a rose from a not-so Guy friend and a single-but-not-really-that-single gal pal. For further details, PM me if you must haha

10. Do a work-related special valentines treat

I like to keep people safe and sweet. And that’s the trip.

11. Get a full body massage

I was getting pumped with getting the “date” thing happen that i bargained to get a 30-minute back massage instead. Uurrrgh what a bummer! But t’was okay. The search for Masbate’s best massage parlor continues.

12. List 7 of your close single friends and call them to check on them

Thought this one will be easy-peasy. I should have just listed 5 hahaha

Buuuut it was a success, even if the last call lasted for 10 seconds with gargling. (Thanks, Chuck, you busy ho!) When the going gets tough, you get your friends aboard and make things fun.

To all my single friends: There’s plenty of love to go around, always remember that! <3

13. Write 3 messages in a bottle for someone who might need it someday (in both English and Tagalog translations) and throw it in the ocean

I made it a personal rule to never throw anything in the ocean but able bodies and washed-up sea creatures. But I made an exception that day and threw three bottles of love-filled messages. On Valentines day, I make Serendipity a real phenomenon (and not some make-believe bullshit or a John Cusack rom-com) and we never know...that girl/guy who just got their heart broken, ends-up on the beaches of Batangas and sees a bottle of Vitamilk with a grey parchment inside.

Note: I now know why wine bottles are apt for messages in a bottle. I accidentally uncapped a bottle while throwing it. So, if that was the ‘For the heartbroken’ ...I will , in advance, apologize for the heartbroken soul who stumbles upon the other bottles. ALSO, I calligraph better in Tagalog haha

14. Put wine inside a tumbler and watch FRIENDS (or any show you’d like to marathon) till I sleep

If you’re still reading, why? hahaha but thanks. So FINALLY! I retreat to the sack after such a long and arduous day. And when I say retreat, it’s sleeping until 12 midnight even if you’re so freakin’ tired - because that’s what F.R.I.E.N.D.S. do, it fucks-up your sleep cycle.

So there you go! The big picture is when you have no one really, you have less expectations to fill and have more control over your day. It’s definitely worth more to GIVE than to RECEIVE love. Cause at the end of the day, people are flawed human beings and when you have your whole day planned to spread love and it doesn’t work-out, pain is gonna be a one-way street. Okay that didn’t sound as optimistic as I meant that to be. But whatever! I hope you have enjoyed your 14!

I wonder what holiday I’m gonna fuck-up next?

#valentines #challenge #14 #things #singlehood #being single #love #romance

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ralphmorgan-blog1 · 7 years

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Luxury travel: The most remote resorts in the Philippines

(CNN)Whether you're in search of an all-inclusive luxury resort or a chilled-out beach villa, the Philippines has no shortage of remote retreats to whisk intrepid travelers off the grid.

But you'll want to get there soon.

The country's natural beauty has caught the eye of international jet-setters and tourism has grown at a rate of 8% per year since 2010, according to a report by Oxford Business Group.

While the cluster of resorts along Manila Bay are easy enough to find, you'll have to work a little harder to check out these far-flung hotels.

Amanpulo

Claiming a plot of sand on its own private island, Amanpulo is all about off-grid luxury.

The exclusive address sprawls across 89-hectare Pamalican Island in the Sulu Sea -- about an hour's flight southwest of Manila.

The only catch? To get here, travelers must spring for a chartered flight -- the 15-seat jet lands on the island's own private airstrip.

But, then again, if you're staying at Amanpulo, you can probably afford it.

Upon arrival guests settle into a beautifully appointed villa, designed using natural materials such as Cebu marble, coconut shell table tops and pebbled walls.

The experience includes a personal butler, private plunge pools and even personal chefs in some of the top-end villas.

Active types, rejoice: Most days will revolve around exploring the pristine surrounds -- think jungle trekking, diving, snorkeling, cycling, turtle spotting and tennis.

Amanpulo, Pamalican Island, Sulu Archipelago, Philippines; +63 2 976 5200

Qi Palawan

For those looking for peace and quiet, Qi Palawan is about as secluded as it gets.

To access this family-run retreat, travelers must catch an hour-long flight from Manila to El Nido Airport, followed by an hour's drive to the northeastern edge of Palawan island.

You know you're close when the van bumps along a dirt road in the middle of nowhere.

Once there, it's nothing but sea views, breezy hammocks and lush gardens.

Taking eco-conscious measures to reduce its carbon footprint, the retreat features back-to-basics luxuries such as locally made soaps, an organic herb garden and open-air architecture.

MORE: World's best beachfront hotels

There are seven bamboo villas, a yoga pavilion and an open-air restaurant helmed by one of the best chefs in Palawan.

Guests can try their hand at kiteboarding on the beach or take a day trip to nearby dive sites and remote islands.

Other highlights include a picnic lunch, snorkeling or a venture to lush Coron Island, considered one of the most pristine locations in the Philippines.

Qi Palawan, San Fernando, Philippines

Tugawe Cove Resort

Hummingbirds, dense forests, limestone cliffs, waterfalls and lakes -- Caramoan Island is an idyllic corner of south-central Philippines.

In the middle of it all is Tugawe Cove Resort. Built along a hillside above Lauing Bay, the elevated outpost offers panoramic views of Sombrero, Loto and Litao islands in the distance.

There's an open-air restaurant and an infinity pool perched at the top of the hill, and a path that leads down to the water.

At the beach, guests can hop into a kayak, don snorkeling gear or try their hand at paddle boarding.

The rooms' warm wood finishes and ocean tones echo the surrounds -- with options to stay in three distinct areas: by the nearby lake, along the hillside or at the very top.

Reaching Tugawe Cove Resort requires careful planning to align with the limited flight schedules.

Expect an hour-long flight from Manila to Virac, followed by a 45-minute ride to Codon port, and a 30-minute boat ride to the resort.

Tugawe Cove, Colongcogong, Caramoan Peninsula, Camarines Sur, Philippines; +63 917 501 6711

Amarela

A low-key beach resort overlooking the Bohol Sea, Amarela is at home on a secluded beach on Panglao Island.

All about the carefree island lifestyle, the 31-room retreat is a one-hour plane ride from Manila to Tagbilaran, Bohol's capital, followed by a 30-minute car transfer.

Amarela's location is far enough away to feel remote, but close enough to offer relatively easy access to a few worthwhile attractions on Panglao island.

The main draws include the photogenic Puntod sandbar, Hinagdanan cave and lagoon, Balicasag's colorful reefs, and pristine Alona Beach.

Keeping with the all-natural aesthetics, the resort's rooms have been designed to complement the surrounds -- picture reclaimed wood, antique furniture, local art and a warm, earthy palette.

Amarela, Barangay Libaong, Panglao Island, Bohol, 6340, Philippines; +63 38 502 9497

Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa

Located on Panglao Island in south-central Philippines, Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa stretches across 16 scenic hectares of rustic gardens and dramatic cliffs.

The luxury resort feels remote thanks to its position on the southernmost tip of Bohol, but it's relatively easy to reach -- just a one-hour flight south of Manila, followed by a 30-minute drive.

MORE: 25 of the world's top hotels

Relaxed yet refined, all the thatched-roof villas feature private pools, but the hotel's infinity pool is the pice de rsistance.

The water's perfect shade of turquoise tricks the eye into thinking the pool spills into the ocean.

The pool may look inviting but there are plenty of other water activities at this oceanfront address -- from dolphin watching to sunset cruises, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and island hopping.

Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa, Barangay Tawala, Panglao Island, Bohol, 6340, Philippines; +632 654 6480

Apulit Island

El Nido Resort is usually one of the first names to pop up when researching hotels in Palawan.

The string of boutique properties was one of the first luxury ventures to touch down in El Nido more than 30 years ago, when there were only a handful of modest beach bungalows in the area.

The most remote in the El Nido Resorts portfolio? Apulit Island.

Situated on the eastern coast of Palawan in lesser frequented Taytay Bay, this eco-adventure spot is surrounded by imposing limestone cliffs.

A vacation here offers an adrenaline-filled few days of diving -- there's a Japanese shipwreck just off the coast -- snorkeling, cliff jumping, rock climbing, rappelling, spelunking, snorkeling and island hopping.

Built on stilts, the 50 over-water cottages promise unobstructed sea views and easy access to the turquoise water below.

Most travelers budget at least a week to enjoy the area, due to the lengthy trip.

Plan for a one-hour flight from Manila to El Nido, followed by a 1.5-hour drive east, and an hour-long boat transfer.

Apulit Island, El Nido Resorts Apulit Island, Taytay, Palawan, Philippines; +63 2 902 5994

Ticao Island Resort

Hidden away in the southeastern Bicol Region of the Philippines, Ticao Island Resort enjoys a long stretch of sand all to itself.

It's a well-earned reward after a long trip. To reach the island outpost, expect an hourlong flight to Legazpi City from Manila, followed by a 1.5-hour drive and a 2-hour outrigger boat ride.

Upon arrival, guests quickly settle into the laid-back island life thanks to full-board rates and nearly all-inclusive activities.

The beachfront cabanas and rustic surrounds are perfect for back-to-basics getaways -- picture simply appointed thatched roof huts, breezy decks, an open-air restaurant and uninterrupted ocean views.

Thanks to the manta ray and whale shark populations nearby, the address has developed a reputation for its diving classes and tours.

One of the hotel's partners is also the founder of the Manta Bowl dive site. Ideal for experienced divers, the site is like an underwater ride thanks to a current that pulls divers through the water alongside fevers of rays.

Back on land, Ticao Island Resort offers a full roster of activities, including jungle treks, horseback riding, billiards, darts and outings to nearby Mayon Volcano.

Ticao Island Resort, Sitio Tacdugan, San Jacinto, Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines; +632 893 817

Atmosphere Resort & Spa

An independently owned resort, Atmosphere Resort & Spa is run by two British expats -- a scuba diver and an architect -- who met in the Philippines more than 15 years ago.

The husband-and-wife duo couldn't have picked a better location -- picture dark volcanic sand beaches in the shadow of Mount Talinis.

Thanks to minerals in the sand from the nearby volcano, the area's marine life is unique and varied, attracting underwater photographers and divers from all over the world.

MORE: 11 best hotels in the middle of nowhere

The address conveniently sits opposite the Apo Island Marine Sanctuary, which makes for easy snorkeling and diving excursions.

Emphasizing health and wellness, Atmosphere comes fully equipped with a gluten-free and vegan-friendly bakery, daily yoga classes by the beach and a secret garden-like spa where treatment pavilions are surrounded by waterfalls.

The destination is relaxing, but getting here takes some effort.

To reach the resort, travelers fly into Dumaguete airport -- about an hour-long flight south of Manila -- followed by a 40-minute drive.

Atmosphere Resort & Spa, Maayong Tubig, National Road, Dauin, 6217 Negros Oriental, Philippines; +63 35 400 6940

Cauayan Resort

A recently opened resort on its own outlying island -- off the coast of El Nido in Palawan -- Cauayan Resort aims to attract a well-heeled crowd.

To reach the private island resort, travelers typically fly from Manila to El Nido, followed by a 15-minute transfer to the port and a 30-minute boat ride.

The stylish resort offers a mix of private villas, a few scattered around a lagoon and the rest right on the beach, where baby whale sharks swim freely.

Each of the 24 bungalows is decked out with teak wood, king-sized beds and rain showers, while the Grand Cauayan Pool Villa features two bedrooms and a private pool.

Aside from the bamboo bungalows and some wooden steps, Cauayan Island is still an untouched tropical jungle, so expect back-to-nature experiences with insects, birds, and unexpected animal encounters.

To make the most of its location in scenic Bacuit Bay, the hotel runs daily island hopping outings, which may include stops at the aptly named Secret and Hidden beaches nearby, as well as the iconic Big and Small lagoons, accessible by kayak.

Cauayan Resort, Cauayan Island, Bacuit Bay El Nido, Palawan; +63 91 9587 7350

Dedon Island

This is the place for carefree island vibes and a stretch of empty sand.

Dedon Island is a remote outpost on Siargao Island in the far south of the archipelago, about a five-hour trip from Manila via Cebu, followed by a 40-minute ride in the hotel's jeepney bus.

The luxurious retreat offers all-inclusive rates, so you can spend your time sipping sundowners rather than counting coins.

From open-air pavilions to coconut tree groves, frangipani gardens, a hidden treehouse, romantic day beds and bird's nest woven chairs, it seems every detail has been designed to celebrate the area's natural beauty.

The upscale address is also a favorite among well-to-do surfing enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to Cloud 9 -- a break in the Philippine Deep trench known for picture-perfect tubes.

Can't balance on a board? No to worry -- there's a wide lineup of activities, including deep-sea fishing, kayaking, wakeboarding, island hopping, biking and relaxing evenings at the outdoor cinema.

Dedon Island, Surigao del Norte, 8419, Philippines; +63 917 701 7820

Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa

A personal butler, airport transfers, poker nights, an outdoor cinema and a gorgeous pool -- Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa is not a typical beach retreat.

There are 40 villas and hotel rooms -- some with Jacuzzis, and all with ocean views.

The hotel operates tours all over the island, including trips to the nearby rock pools, crocodile sanctuary, mangroves and even water buffalo rides at sunset.

Just a five-minute walk to the famous Cloud 9 swell, the resort also offers a special package aimed at experienced and aspiring surfers.

To get here? It's a one-hour flight from Cebu to Del Carmen in Siargao, then a 45-minute complimentary van transfer to the hotel.

Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa, Barangay Catangnan, General Luna, Siargao Island, Philippines; +63 917 772 4188

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phgq · 4 years

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PSA to rollout Step 2 sign up for PhilSys early January

#PHnews: PSA to rollout Step 2 sign up for PhilSys early January

MANILA – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Tuesday announced that the Step 2 registration process for the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) project will gradually begin in the selected provinces early this month.

In an advisory, the PSA said it will conduct a gradual and small-scale rollout of the Step 2 PhilSys registration for those individuals who have taken the first step of the registration phase for the PhilSys.

"The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) informs the public that Step 2 Registration for the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) will start early January 2021 on a gradual, small-scale basis to ensure the safety of the PhilSys registrants and registration staff," it said.

The PSA said it will initially open the registration centers in San Pablo City, Laguna.

It added that a limited number of registration centers located in the provinces of Bataan, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, and Rizal are also set to open for the Step 2 PhilSys registration.

The PSA targets to start Step 2 Registration in more provinces by February 2021.

It said the initial phase of Step 2 Registration will run from January to April 2021, as it targets to register some 10.5 million Filipinos who have then completed the Step 1 Registration in 2020.

The PSA urged the Step 1 registrants to wait for the announcements from their respective municipalities or barangays related to the Step 2 PhilSys mass registration rollout.

In coordination with local government units (LGUS), the PSA said it will inform the Step 1 registrants of their respective schedules for Step 2.

Step 2 is the registration process which involves the validation of supporting documents and capturing the registrants' biometric information, such as fingerprints, iris scans, and front-facing photographs at the registration centers.

For any inquiries, the registrants may reach PSA through email through [email protected], or message its official Facebook page via www.facebook.com/PSAPhilSysOfficial, or may call the PhilSys hotline 1388.

The PSA reminded the registrants to carefully keep the PhilSys transaction slip and prepare the supporting documents to be taken to the selected registration centers for Step 2 of the registration process.

Amid the prevailing health crisis, the PSA has done a house-to-house collection of demographic information of the targeted low-income household heads from 664 cities and municipalities of the 32 identified provinces including Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Leyte, Compostela Valley, Davao Del Norte, Davao Del Sur, Davao Occidental, and Tawi-Tawi.

PhilID, documentary requirements

The PSA said Philippine identification (PhilID) will not replace the existing functional IDs that serve other purposes.

It said the PhilID is a foundational ID that serves as a valid proof of identity which would help ease transactions with both government and private sector through easier validation and authentication of identity.

In applying for the PhilID, applicants are advised to present an original copy of one (1) of the following: --PSA-issued Certificate of Live Birth together with one government-issued identification document bearing the full name, front-facing photograph, and signature or thumb mark; --Philippine Passport issued by the DFA; --Unified Multi-Purpose Identification* (UMID) Card issued by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and Social Security System (SSS); or --Valid LTO-issued Student’s License Permit or Non-Professional/Professional Driver’s License

The full list of accepted documentary requirements can be found at the back of the PhilSys Registration Form. Applicants without documentation may be registered through the Introducer-Based Registration.

PhilID validity

The PSA said the PhilID for Filipinos has no expiration date, while the PhilID issued to resident aliens will only be valid for one year.

Acquiring PhilID is free of charge for the initial issuance for Filipinos, it said.

The PSA said the fee shall only apply for the replacement of the PhilID due to damage or loss.

The holders of certificate of indigency, meanwhile, are exempted from the replacement fee, as long as they present this certificate.

Data privacy, security

The government will adopt a privacy-protective system for data protection and sufficient safeguards will be in place to ensure the safety, security, and data privacy of the registry information.

"The PSA takes seriously the responsibility of ensuring the privacy, security, and integrity of registered persons’ data," it said.

The PSA said it will strictly comply with the Data Privacy Act.

"The PSA has been working closely with the National Privacy Commission (NPC), the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT), and the National Security Council regarding the architecture and processes of the PhilSys, including to identify and mitigate privacy and cybersecurity risks," it said.

"The PhilSys design adopts Privacy-by-Design principles wherein privacy is incorporated into its technologies by default and from the start," it added.

The PSA earlier assured that the only person who can provide data stored in the PhiSys registry remains to be the owner of the data.

"For example, the PhilSys collects and stores minimal data and the PhilSys Number (PSN) is fully randomized, not revealing any information about the person such as their date of birth," it said.

Signed into law by President Rodrigo R. Duterte in August 2018, Republic Act 11055, or the Philippine Identification System Act, aims to establish a single national ID for all Filipinos and resident aliens.

The national ID shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrollment in schools, and the opening of bank accounts.

It will also boost efficiency, especially in dealing with government services where people will only need to present one ID during transactions. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "PSA to rollout Step 2 sign up for PhilSys early January." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1126448 (accessed January 06, 2021 at 05:09AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "PSA to rollout Step 2 sign up for PhilSys early January." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1126448 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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trendingnewsb · 7 years

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Luxury travel: The most remote resorts in the Philippines

(CNN)Whether you’re in search of an all-inclusive luxury resort or a chilled-out beach villa, the Philippines has no shortage of remote retreats to whisk intrepid travelers off the grid.

But you’ll want to get there soon.

The country’s natural beauty has caught the eye of international jet-setters and tourism has grown at a rate of 8% per year since 2010, according to a report by Oxford Business Group.

While the cluster of resorts along Manila Bay are easy enough to find, you’ll have to work a little harder to check out these far-flung hotels.

Amanpulo

Claiming a plot of sand on its own private island, Amanpulo is all about off-grid luxury.

The exclusive address sprawls across 89-hectare Pamalican Island in the Sulu Sea — about an hour’s flight southwest of Manila.

The only catch? To get here, travelers must spring for a chartered flight — the 15-seat jet lands on the island’s own private airstrip.

But, then again, if you’re staying at Amanpulo, you can probably afford it.

Upon arrival guests settle into a beautifully appointed villa, designed using natural materials such as Cebu marble, coconut shell table tops and pebbled walls.

The experience includes a personal butler, private plunge pools and even personal chefs in some of the top-end villas.

Active types, rejoice: Most days will revolve around exploring the pristine surrounds — think jungle trekking, diving, snorkeling, cycling, turtle spotting and tennis.

Amanpulo, Pamalican Island, Sulu Archipelago, Philippines; +63 2 976 5200

Qi Palawan

For those looking for peace and quiet, Qi Palawan is about as secluded as it gets.

To access this family-run retreat, travelers must catch an hour-long flight from Manila to El Nido Airport, followed by an hour’s drive to the northeastern edge of Palawan island.

You know you’re close when the van bumps along a dirt road in the middle of nowhere.

Once there, it’s nothing but sea views, breezy hammocks and lush gardens.

Taking eco-conscious measures to reduce its carbon footprint, the retreat features back-to-basics luxuries such as locally made soaps, an organic herb garden and open-air architecture.

MORE: World’s best beachfront hotels

There are seven bamboo villas, a yoga pavilion and an open-air restaurant helmed by one of the best chefs in Palawan.

Guests can try their hand at kiteboarding on the beach or take a day trip to nearby dive sites and remote islands.

Other highlights include a picnic lunch, snorkeling or a venture to lush Coron Island, considered one of the most pristine locations in the Philippines.

Qi Palawan, San Fernando, Philippines

Tugawe Cove Resort

Hummingbirds, dense forests, limestone cliffs, waterfalls and lakes — Caramoan Island is an idyllic corner of south-central Philippines.

In the middle of it all is Tugawe Cove Resort. Built along a hillside above Lauing Bay, the elevated outpost offers panoramic views of Sombrero, Loto and Litao islands in the distance.

There’s an open-air restaurant and an infinity pool perched at the top of the hill, and a path that leads down to the water.

At the beach, guests can hop into a kayak, don snorkeling gear or try their hand at paddle boarding.

The rooms’ warm wood finishes and ocean tones echo the surrounds — with options to stay in three distinct areas: by the nearby lake, along the hillside or at the very top.

Reaching Tugawe Cove Resort requires careful planning to align with the limited flight schedules.

Expect an hour-long flight from Manila to Virac, followed by a 45-minute ride to Codon port, and a 30-minute boat ride to the resort.

Tugawe Cove, Colongcogong, Caramoan Peninsula, Camarines Sur, Philippines; +63 917 501 6711

Amarela

A low-key beach resort overlooking the Bohol Sea, Amarela is at home on a secluded beach on Panglao Island.

All about the carefree island lifestyle, the 31-room retreat is a one-hour plane ride from Manila to Tagbilaran, Bohol’s capital, followed by a 30-minute car transfer.

Amarela’s location is far enough away to feel remote, but close enough to offer relatively easy access to a few worthwhile attractions on Panglao island.

The main draws include the photogenic Puntod sandbar, Hinagdanan cave and lagoon, Balicasag’s colorful reefs, and pristine Alona Beach.

Keeping with the all-natural aesthetics, the resort’s rooms have been designed to complement the surrounds — picture reclaimed wood, antique furniture, local art and a warm, earthy palette.

Amarela, Barangay Libaong, Panglao Island, Bohol, 6340, Philippines; +63 38 502 9497

Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa

Located on Panglao Island in south-central Philippines, Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa stretches across 16 scenic hectares of rustic gardens and dramatic cliffs.

The luxury resort feels remote thanks to its position on the southernmost tip of Bohol, but it’s relatively easy to reach — just a one-hour flight south of Manila, followed by a 30-minute drive.

MORE: 25 of the world’s top hotels

Relaxed yet refined, all the thatched-roof villas feature private pools, but the hotel’s infinity pool is the pice de rsistance.

The water’s perfect shade of turquoise tricks the eye into thinking the pool spills into the ocean.

The pool may look inviting but there are plenty of other water activities at this oceanfront address — from dolphin watching to sunset cruises, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and island hopping.

Eskaya Beach Resort & Spa, Barangay Tawala, Panglao Island, Bohol, 6340, Philippines; +632 654 6480

Apulit Island

El Nido Resort is usually one of the first names to pop up when researching hotels in Palawan.

The string of boutique properties was one of the first luxury ventures to touch down in El Nido more than 30 years ago, when there were only a handful of modest beach bungalows in the area.

The most remote in the El Nido Resorts portfolio? Apulit Island.

Situated on the eastern coast of Palawan in lesser frequented Taytay Bay, this eco-adventure spot is surrounded by imposing limestone cliffs.

A vacation here offers an adrenaline-filled few days of diving — there’s a Japanese shipwreck just off the coast — snorkeling, cliff jumping, rock climbing, rappelling, spelunking, snorkeling and island hopping.

Built on stilts, the 50 over-water cottages promise unobstructed sea views and easy access to the turquoise water below.

Most travelers budget at least a week to enjoy the area, due to the lengthy trip.

Plan for a one-hour flight from Manila to El Nido, followed by a 1.5-hour drive east, and an hour-long boat transfer.

Apulit Island, El Nido Resorts Apulit Island, Taytay, Palawan, Philippines; +63 2 902 5994

Ticao Island Resort

Hidden away in the southeastern Bicol Region of the Philippines, Ticao Island Resort enjoys a long stretch of sand all to itself.

It’s a well-earned reward after a long trip. To reach the island outpost, expect an hourlong flight to Legazpi City from Manila, followed by a 1.5-hour drive and a 2-hour outrigger boat ride.

Upon arrival, guests quickly settle into the laid-back island life thanks to full-board rates and nearly all-inclusive activities.

The beachfront cabanas and rustic surrounds are perfect for back-to-basics getaways — picture simply appointed thatched roof huts, breezy decks, an open-air restaurant and uninterrupted ocean views.

Thanks to the manta ray and whale shark populations nearby, the address has developed a reputation for its diving classes and tours.

One of the hotel’s partners is also the founder of the Manta Bowl dive site. Ideal for experienced divers, the site is like an underwater ride thanks to a current that pulls divers through the water alongside fevers of rays.

Back on land, Ticao Island Resort offers a full roster of activities, including jungle treks, horseback riding, billiards, darts and outings to nearby Mayon Volcano.

Ticao Island Resort, Sitio Tacdugan, San Jacinto, Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines; +632 893 817

Atmosphere Resort & Spa

An independently owned resort, Atmosphere Resort & Spa is run by two British expats — a scuba diver and an architect — who met in the Philippines more than 15 years ago.

The husband-and-wife duo couldn’t have picked a better location — picture dark volcanic sand beaches in the shadow of Mount Talinis.

Thanks to minerals in the sand from the nearby volcano, the area’s marine life is unique and varied, attracting underwater photographers and divers from all over the world.

MORE: 11 best hotels in the middle of nowhere

The address conveniently sits opposite the Apo Island Marine Sanctuary, which makes for easy snorkeling and diving excursions.

The destination is relaxing, but getting here takes some effort.

To reach the resort, travelers fly into Dumaguete airport — about an hour-long flight south of Manila — followed by a 40-minute drive.

Atmosphere Resort & Spa, Maayong Tubig, National Road, Dauin, 6217 Negros Oriental, Philippines; +63 35 400 6940

Cauayan Resort

A recently opened resort on its own outlying island — off the coast of El Nido in Palawan — Cauayan Resort aims to attract a well-heeled crowd.

To reach the private island resort, travelers typically fly from Manila to El Nido, followed by a 15-minute transfer to the port and a 30-minute boat ride.

The stylish resort offers a mix of private villas, a few scattered around a lagoon and the rest right on the beach, where baby whale sharks swim freely.

Each of the 24 bungalows is decked out with teak wood, king-sized beds and rain showers, while the Grand Cauayan Pool Villa features two bedrooms and a private pool.

Cauayan Resort, Cauayan Island, Bacuit Bay El Nido, Palawan; +63 91 9587 7350

Dedon Island

This is the place for carefree island vibes and a stretch of empty sand.

Dedon Island is a remote outpost on Siargao Island in the far south of the archipelago, about a five-hour trip from Manila via Cebu, followed by a 40-minute ride in the hotel’s jeepney bus.

The luxurious retreat offers all-inclusive rates, so you can spend your time sipping sundowners rather than counting coins.

From open-air pavilions to coconut tree groves, frangipani gardens, a hidden treehouse, romantic day beds and bird’s nest woven chairs, it seems every detail has been designed to celebrate the area’s natural beauty.

The upscale address is also a favorite among well-to-do surfing enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to Cloud 9 — a break in the Philippine Deep trench known for picture-perfect tubes.

Can’t balance on a board? No to worry — there’s a wide lineup of activities, including deep-sea fishing, kayaking, wakeboarding, island hopping, biking and relaxing evenings at the outdoor cinema.

Dedon Island, Surigao del Norte, 8419, Philippines; +63 917 701 7820

Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa

A personal butler, airport transfers, poker nights, an outdoor cinema and a gorgeous pool — Siargao Bleu Resort and Spa is not a typical beach retreat.

There are 40 villas and hotel rooms — some with Jacuzzis, and all with ocean views.

The hotel operates tours all over the island, including trips to the nearby rock pools, crocodile sanctuary, mangroves and even water buffalo rides at sunset.

Just a five-minute walk to the famous Cloud 9 swell, the resort also offers a special package aimed at experienced and aspiring surfers.

To get here? It’s a one-hour flight from Cebu to Del Carmen in Siargao, then a 45-minute complimentary van transfer to the hotel.

Siargao Bleu Resort & Spa, Barangay Catangnan, General Luna, Siargao Island, Philippines; +63 917 772 4188

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christianreybariso · 7 years

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Each day, gives you a new day to change your life. So, if you're unhappy, remember the sun will shine again and your day will come. Never give up hope for a better tomorrow! Follow & Like our Page: www.fb.com/BuriasEscapade Photograph © Christian Rey Bariso . . . . . . . . . . #buriasescapade #awesome #ichooseph #philippines #island #buriasvideography #underwaterphotography #travelphotography #travel #adventure #explore #wanderlust #wanderer #paradise #roadtrip #chooseph #choosephilippines #friends #selfie #instapic #bestoftheday #photo #photooftheday #follow4follow #followme #zenfone3photo #burias #masbate #sunshoot

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phgq · 4 years

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PSA warns public vs. PhilSys sign up scam

#PHnews: PSA warns public vs. PhilSys sign up scam

MANILA – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) has cautioned the public to be vigilant against scammers posing as employees who facilitate registration for the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys).

In an advisory on Saturday, the PSA said it has been receiving reports that some individuals have been posing as part of the PhilSys team, who are unlawfully processing the Philippine identification card (PhilID) with corresponding charges.

According to the PSA, a certain community group with Facebook account 'Philippine National ID (News & Information)' and an individual branding himself as 'Calvin Processings' reportedly is collecting fees for the PhilID registration.

Some of the modus of these fake accounts are luring their target victims by posting deceptive information such as giving prioritization to their supposed clients for the PhilSys' registration. They also ask clients to pay for continuous transactions.

The PSA, meanwhile, reminded the public that the registration under PhilSys is free of charge.

It also emphasized that acquiring the national ID would be free for all Filipinos and shall comply with the Data Privacy Act of 2012 wherein the collection of data and information would be automatically be encrypted into the PSA server.

Those captured personal data and information should be directly posted in the PhilSys registry for protection and should be posted on social media.

PSA warned the public that the genuine PhilSys personnel should properly introduce themselves, representing the PSA office and the PhilSys project.

People were told to immediately report fake posts, pages, or individuals with illegal activities and transactions related to the PhilSys project.

The public is also urged to transact with legitimate PSA field personnel.

Netizens can report illegal activities related to PhilSys to the PSA PhilSys' official account via link https://www.facebook.com/PSAPhilSysOfficial or may call at PhilSys hotline at 1388 (call is not free).

PSA said the PhilSys registration has three steps involves pre-registration, registration, and issuance of the PhilID.

Under the Step 1 pre-registration process, the PSA field officers are initially operating house-to-house collection of demographic information of the targeted low-income household heads from 664 cities and municipalities of the 32 identified province including Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Leyte, Compostela Valley, Davao Del Norte, Davao Del Sur, Davao Occidental, and Tawi-Tawi.

While Step 3 of the PhilSys registration is the issuance of a physical ID card stored with a 12-digit PhilSys number or personal serial number (PSN) and a 16-digit PhilSys card number (PCN).

PSA said those who are planning to use the PhilSys project for scam and fraud purposes or those who will be caught providing unauthorized issuance of PhilID will face criminal charges.

Scammers will be penalized with a fine of PHP1,000,000 to PHP3,000,000 and/or imprisonment of three years, in accordance with the Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR) of the R.A. No. 11055 or the Philippine Identification System Act.

The national ID shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrollment in schools, and the opening of bank accounts.

It will also boost efficiency, especially in dealing with government services where people will only need to present one ID during transactions. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "PSA warns public vs. PhilSys sign up scam." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1126165 (accessed January 03, 2021 at 12:31AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "PSA warns public vs. PhilSys sign up scam." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1126165 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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phgq · 4 years

Text

PSA hits 9-M target registrants for 2020 under PhilSys

#PHnews: PSA hits 9-M target registrants for 2020 under PhilSys

MANILA – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Friday announced that it has surpassed its yearend goal to register the targeted nine million low-income Filipinos under the Philippine identification system (PhilSys).

As of Dec.14, the PSA said a total of 9,004,546 low-income individuals have taken the first step of the registration phase for the PhilSys.

Amid the pandemic, the PSA has done a house-to-house collection of demographic information of the targeted low-income household heads from 664 cities and municipalities of the 32 identified province including Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Leyte, Compostela Valley, Davao Del Norte, Davao Del Sur, Davao Occidental, and Tawi-Tawi.

PSA Undersecretary Dennis Mapa said the current pace for Step 1 registration has allowed the PSA to increase its initial target of nine million Filipinos to 11 million for 2020.

"As we continue our Step 1 Registration operations in the first 32 provinces, we are confident that we will reach this next milestone before the year ends,” Mapa, also the National Statistician and Civil Registrar General, said in a statement.

Meanwhile, PSA Assistant Secretary Rosalinda Bautista said the PSA has marked 100.1 percent of its initial target of registering nine million Filipinos.

"This milestone is made possible with the strong support and full cooperation of the local government units [LGUs] of the 32 provinces, and dedication of PSA enumerators who went on the field to collect the registrants’ demographic information," Bautista added.

PhilSys on track

Despite the health crisis and the recent onslaught of the typhoons that slowed down the PSA's ground operations, Bautista said the PhilSys registration process is still on track.

While conducting the pre-registration, the PSA assured that both the registrant and registration staff are safe from the risks of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) infection by adhering to the health and safety protocols.

The second phase of the PhilSys registration is set to begin in January 2021, which will be done on a gradual and small-scale basis.

Step 2 involves the validation of supporting documents and capturing the registrants' biometric information, such as fingerprints, iris scans, and front-facing photographs at the registration centers.

Step 3 of the registration is the issuance of a physical ID card stored with a 12-digit PhilSys number or personal serial number (PSN) and a 16-digit PhilSys card number (PCN).

The national ID shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrollment in schools, and the opening of bank accounts.

It will also boost efficiency, especially in dealing with government services where people will only need to present one ID during transactions. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "PSA hits 9-M target registrants for 2020 under PhilSys." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125138 (accessed December 18, 2020 at 09:46PM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "PSA hits 9-M target registrants for 2020 under PhilSys." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1125138 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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phgq · 4 years

Text

Over 3M Pinoys registered for Nat’l ID system

#PHnews: Over 3M Pinoys registered for Nat’l ID system

MANILA – The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) on Friday reported that around 3,315,000 low-income Filipinos have taken the first step of the registration phase for the Philippine identification system (PhilSys).

“Given the current count and the pace of our operations, we are confident that we will hit our nine-million-target for Step 1 Registration, before the year ends,” National Statistician and Civil Registrar General Undersecretary Claire Dennis Mapa said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Assistant Secretary Rosalinda Bautista said the PSA's field personnel for PhilSys, commonly known as the national ID system, have slowed down their ground operations due to the onslaught of Super Typhoon Rolly (international name Goni).

However, Bautista said the PhilSys registration process is still on track.

"The high productivity recorded during the first three weeks compensated for the reduced registrations during the typhoon," she added.

Bautista said as of Nov.4, the PSA has reached 120 percent of its target for step 1 of the PhilSys registration.

The first step in the registration involves the collection of the registrant's information, including full name, gender, date, and place of birth, blood type, and address.

It will be followed by the setting up of an appointment for the biometrics capture that includes fingerprint, iris scan, and front-facing photograph.

According to the PSA, the registration will only take five-minutes per individual wherein an enumerator could record around 46 registrations daily, on average.

The PSA earlier noted that the registration team, including the enumerators and other pre-registration staff, will follow stringent health and safety protocols in the duration of the registration process, to keep them safe against the risks of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) infection.

Bautista earlier said the third step of the registration is the issuance of a physical ID card stored with a 12-digit PhilSys number or personal serial number (PSN) and 16-digit PhilSys card number (PCN).

The PSA targets to register the majority of Filipinos by the end of 2022.

The PSA has started collecting demographic data from targeted low-income Filipinos in 664 cities and municipalities in 32 provinces identified as “low-risk” areas for coronavirus outbreak, including Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Leyte, Compostela Valley, Davao Del Norte, Davao Del Sur, Davao Occidental, and Tawi-Tawi.

The national ID shall be a valid proof of identity that shall be a means of simplifying public and private transactions, enrolment in schools, and the opening of bank accounts.

It will also boost efficiency, especially in dealing with government services where people will only need to present the ID during transactions. (PNA)

***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "Over 3M Pinoys registered for Nat’l ID system." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121108 (accessed November 08, 2020 at 03:22AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "Over 3M Pinoys registered for Nat’l ID system." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1121108 (archived).

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phgq · 4 years

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PhilSys Step 1 registration nears 6-million mark despite typhoons

#PHinfo: PhilSys Step 1 registration nears 6-million mark despite typhoons

PARAÑAQUE CITY, Nov. 26 (PIA) -- The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) today announced that 5,788,615 Filipinos have already completed Step 1 registration of the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) as of Nov. 20.

This step includes the house-to-house collection of the demographic information of low-income household heads in the 32 priority provinces for 2020.

The select provinces include: Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Cagayan, Isabela, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, Davao De Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental, Leyte, and Tawi-tawi.

This brings total registrations to 58.7 percent of the PSA’s 9 million target for Step 1 by the end of the year.

The PSA also reported that 89 percent of registrants so far have signified that they currently do not have bank accounts.

According to the PSA, this emphasizes the importance of ensuring the rollout of the country’s national ID program, as one of the main hindrances to financial inclusion is the lack of formal identification.

PhilSys will allow more Filipinos access to basic banking services and make them less vulnerable to informal lending practices that charge onerous interest rates.

Formal identification will also help Filipinos access government and financial services.

“Mainam [na magkaroon ng National ID] gaya sa akin na may anak sa ibang bansa,” said a registrant from Rizal.

“Para kung anumang transaksyon ang gusto niyang mangyari dito [sa Pilipinas], o kung anumang kailangan niyang ipalakad sa’kin, magagamit ko ‘yung National ID.”

On the safety and convenience of the house-to-house procedure, registrant Gloria Palania said, “Okay ‘to, kasi gaya kong senior citizen, lalo na ngayong may pandemic, di mo na kailangan makipagsiksikan. Buti kung ganito, at least, hindi kayo maiistorbo. Kayo lang ng interviewer at ‘yung sasagot.”

The PSA is set to begin Step 2 of PhilSys registration, which will involve the capture of biometric information, such as fingerprints and iris scans, once the required systems are fully functional and secure.

Among the major preparatory activities for Step 2 is the deployment of more than 4,000 registration kits to the target provinces.

“We partnered with the Department of National Defense to transport our registration kits to the 32 provinces, but due to the recent typhoons and the resulting relief efforts, we are encountering minor delays. We ask for the public’s understanding of the situation as the delivery of assistance to those affected by the typhoon is of utmost importance,” said Assistant Secretary Rosalinda P. Bautista, Deputy National Statistician of the PhilSys Registry Office (PRO).

“We have notified, via text message, the registrants who were set to undergo Step 2 registration from November 25 to 30 about the change in schedule. Barangay officials in registration areas were requested to inform their constituents. Personnel from the Provincial Statistics Offices were also instructed to man the registration centers to inform registrants of developments, in case there are still some that will arrive at the registration sites,” Bautista added.

The PSA had earlier announced that the government is prioritizing the registration of household heads belonging to low-income families.

By providing formal identification, PhilSys will help low-income families access basic banking services and allow faster distribution of future government subsidies.

PhilSys also aims to improve the lives of Filipinos by making transactions with the government simple, safe, secure, seamless, and more efficient.To recall, Step 1, which involves the house-to-house collection of demographic information, is the first out of the three-step registration process for the PhilSys.

Step 2, on the other hand, will involve capturing the registrants’ biometric data such as fingerprint scans, iris scans, and a front-facing photograph at registration centers. Finally, Step 3 will involve the issuance of the PhilSys Number (PSN) and the physical ID (PhilID).

For the latest information on PhilSys, please visit the official PhilSys website: www.psa.gov.ph/philsys or Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ PSAPhilSysOfficial/

You may also reach the PhilSys Registry Office via hotline number 1388 or e-mail at [email protected]. (PIA NCR)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "PhilSys Step 1 registration nears 6-million mark despite typhoons." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1060175 (accessed November 26, 2020 at 05:22PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "PhilSys Step 1 registration nears 6-million mark despite typhoons." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1060175 (archived).

#Philippines #News #Filipino #Pinoy #Tourism #Politics #Culture #Editorial #Environment #Society #History

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