#Place: Fortune Island Batangas Philippines | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

marctugonon · 4 years ago

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2ND TRIME L1# 1

COVID-19; The Battle of the Infectious Coronavirus Disease

Covid-19 is a hotly debated topic that often divides opinion. Delusional people say it’s just a made-up, imaginary, or unreal propaganda serving as news. On the contrary, some experts, researchers, and conspiracy theorists say, that Covid-19 was made intentionally to avoid a population boom and to lessen the global human population in China since they’re one of the Top 10 Countries with the Highest Population in the World, according to Internet World Stats written by Miniwatts Marketing Group.

Firstly, let’s take a look at Covid-19’s timeline in the Philippines and how it was able to enter the country. On January 22, 2020, the first suspect of Covid was investigated, later on, identified as the first case of Covid-19 on January 30, 2020. It was a 39-year old Chinese woman, together with her partner, who was on vacation in the Philippines. She was immediately admitted to San Lazaro Hospital in Manila. Her partner, who was also encountering symptoms of the said disease, was identified as the second case of Covid-19 in the country. His condition deteriorated, thus causing him to die and subsequently confirmed as the first death of Covid-19 outside of China on the 2nd of February. Secondly, the first confirmed case of a Filipino citizen outside the country was identified. He was a crew member of the cruise ship Diamond Princess and was quarantined in Japan. The third confirmed case in the country was also announced as well as the refugees from Wuhan who were quarantined for 14 days in the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. Fortunately, none of them showed any symptoms of the disease and hence getting released right after they were cleared. And there comes the month of March. The number of Covid cases combusted during this time and people were in full panic mode. On March 6, 2 new cases of the disease were announced. They were the first and second cases of Filipinos inside the country. The number of cases abruptly increased in a short span of time, which generated all the schools and workplaces nationwide to shut down. Duterte also declared a lockdown on the entire island of Luzon. Later on, Duterte signed Proclamation No. 929 that placed the entire Philippines under a state of calamity due to the impact that caused panic and trauma to the citizens brought by Covid. The president also gave additional orders to the frontliners in order to lessen fresh cases of Covid-19. Amidst the lockdown, Duterte signs, once again, an act called Administrative Order No. 26, to grant at least 500 pesos daily hazard pay for the government personnel who still go to work in spite of what’s happening in the country. Lastly, he signed the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act of 2020 into law, which grants him more power to handle Covid and its upcoming damages. He also announced in the public that his administration granted 200 billion pesos for those who are struggling financially due to the implementation of ECQ in the country. At the end of the month, a total of 2,084 cases were reported with a death toll of 88 and 49 recovered patients. Moving on to the month of April. People started protesting demanding food aid and were immediately arrested due to disobedience towards the Covid-19 protocol. As a consequence of people’s negligence to the protocol provided by the government, Duterte imposed protective measures on soldiers to protect themselves from rebellious protestors and quarantine violators. On April 5, the president signed an order, Administrative Order No. 28, which gives allowance to government health workers as a result of their bravery. Extension of quarantine until the 15th of May was also announced in the public. At this time of the month, the Philippine government disclosed the public disclosure of personal information of Covid-19 patients to avoid the escalation of the virus. Towards the end of the month, the Supreme Court demanded reduced pre-trial restrictions for those who committed crimes and are being suspected. At the end of the month, Covid brought a total of 8,212 cases with a death toll of 558 and 1,023 recovered patients. The month of May came by, bringing two hundred ninety-five new cases immediately with its first 3 days, which gives us a total of 9,223 new cases in the country. The government also tightened its restrictions on departures for overseas employment. The IATF-EID made amends towards the quarantine situations in some areas in the country. Modified Enhance Community Quarantine (MECQ), which is stricter than GCQ, was applied to Metro Manila, cities of Angeles and Bacoor, provinces of Laguna, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, and Zambales. While on the other hand, Cebu and Mandaue City were under ECQ, whereas the rest of the country was under GCQ. 10 days after the announcement of changes in quarantine in some parts of the country, all mayors of Metro Manila held a meeting which discoursed NCR’s situation regarding their quarantine situation. Metro Manila mayors have agreed that the NCR will be placed from MECQ to GCQ which will be effective on the following month, June 1, specifically. Eventually, ECQ in Luzon ended, hence the downgrade to GCQ or MECQ to some areas in the region. Furthermore, June arrives, bringing MECQ to NCR. June, with its first days of the year 2020, brought almost 20,000 fresh cases of Covid-19 in the country with almost a total of 1,000 deaths. In regards to the country’s education, UNICEF gave a helping hand to DepEd with the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan for their back to school campaign. After 2 weeks, Covid with its uprising cases was almost unfeasible for the government, frontliners, and the country’s economy to control. Fortunately, DOH came to the media immediately to announce that among all the active cases in the country, 97.5% are mild. But that doesn’t change the fact that it is fatal. Towards the end of the month, many cases were reported among the repatriated Overseas Filipino Workers and Locally Stranded Individuals caused by the negligence of precautionary measures. DOH is asking for tighter proper implementation of guidelines to lessen Covid’s casualties, as it is one of the main sources of fresh cases in the country. After all, June came by very quickly and left the country with over 36,438 Covid cases. The Philippines spent its first 3 days for the month of July distinguishing for new cases. They successfully identified over 200+ MRT Line 3 workers who tested positive for Covid-19 within a span of 3 days. It was also announced that the first case of Covid-19 in Tawi Tawi was identified. It was a 44-year old police officer from Bongao. On July 8, the Philippines breached the 50,000-mark of Covid-19 cases. The Quezon City mayor, Joy Belmonte was one of the unfortunate citizens who got infected by the disease. Due to Covid-19 cases simultaneously rising, several Metro Manila hospitals reached their full capacity to give service to those who are infected with the disease, therefore putting all hospitals under “danger zone”. Halfway through July, Cebu City shifted to MECQ while Metro Manila remained under GCQ for another 2 weeks. The Philippines also reached 70,000 cases with a death toll of 2,837 and 23,381 recovered patients. 2 days after the announcement regarding the 70,000 mark of Covid-19 Cases, Cebu City demanded free testing, making them the first ones to declare free testing outside Metro Manila. At the end of the month, 89,374 cases were displayed in the media, with a death toll of 1,083 and 65,064 recovered patients. Moreover, Cebu City declares GCQ on the first day of August. However, Metro Manila was left with little to no changes and was still under GCQ. The country reached the 100,000 mark on the 2nd of August. On August 6, the Philippines finally surpassed Indonesia in terms of cases in Southeast Asia. Nothing much really happened in the month of August, besides topping in Southeast Asia with the most Covid-19 cases. September also came by very quickly which brought over 200,000 new cases of Covid-19, which generated the breaching of the 300,000 mark. Later on, Duterte appeared on national television, together with the Health Secretary Francisco Duque III. They issued a statement about Metro Manila being kept under GCQ together with Batangas, Tacloban, and Bacolod. Games such as basketball resumed in the month of October, as well as cases consistently getting worse. A miracle happened, and the number of cases of Covid in the Philippines miraculously slowed down for a short period of time, hence Indonesia surpassing us in terms of the number of Covid-19 cases in Southeast Asia. Afterwards, Malacanang declared GCQ for Metro Manila, Batangas, Iloilo City, Tacloban, Iligan City, and Lanao del Sur, while the rest of the country stays in MGCQ. After a few days of suspension due to the consecutive recent calamities that struck the country, PBA games resumed which in result, a player was confirmed positive with Covid-19. The Philippines also reached the 400,000 mark with a total of 401,416 cases. Towards the end of the month, the Senate approved the P4.5-T 2021 national budget which includes the increase in the country’s funding for Covid-19 vaccines. The month of December is up, and the country still has no free mass testing, therefore cases continuously rising. As of December 8, there are 443k confirmed cases of Covid-19. Another point worth noting is the Effects of COVID to the economy, health, and safety of the Philippines.If you are updated with the news today, read articles, or very active on social media, especially Twiter, you will know how incompetent the government is towards the recent ruckus the country is facing, the pandemic. In the early stage of Covid-19 in the Philippines, it was very much noticeable how the country’s economy deteriorated. Ironically, the government still managed to push through with the Manila Bay Beautification despite the uprising cases of Covid-19 cases in the country. Leaving its citizens screaming in agony. Ever since the first lockdown, free mass testing was not prescribed by the government. It’s currently the 8th of December and the Philippines still has no free mass testing. After almost 10 months in lockdown, President Rodrigo Duterte finally had a eureka moment and realized the government itself must provide testing if the country really wants to avoid and limit the virus. As stated by Harry Roque, Duterte is always 10 steps ahead on everything, but it seems like he’s 10 months delayed. Nonetheless, as reported by Asian Development Outlook (ADO) 2020 Update, the Philippines’ economy is expected to rebound in 2021. But drawbacks will still be expected next year that could really affect the country’s trade, investment, and OFW remittances. This is due to a slower global recovery that the world is experiencing as the outbreak is ongoing. In September 2020, the government had announced its preparations for the fiscal support package which includes cash subsidies to those who were heavily affected, ousted Filipino workers; agriculture, tourism, and transportation; and subsidies to the leading health care systems in the country and hence a controlled and well tracked economy for the country’s recovery next year.

Another factor to consider is efforts of the government, health sectors, and citizens in responding to the said pandemic. In the first few months of the lockdown, the President signed an act “Bayanihan To Heal As One”, where all measures were taken. This act gives the President the authority over organizations, workers, systerms, and any other matters relating to the pandemic. The government provided testing such as swab tests, but the country needs free mass testing. Not everyone is privileged enough to pay for a swab test due to its high price, especially the poor. In most parts of the country, squatters or residential areas can be seen everywhere. Their lives are at high risk due to their cramped spaces, leaving more room for Covid to infect more people. Duterte’s diabolical response to Covid-19 provoked more people to cause commotion, but in a good way. People used their platforms to cry for help in order to be heard by the government. In spite of all the madness; rallies and uproaring of people online, the government still managed to neglect and revoke the citizens and country’s condition. The incompetence of the government is not the only problem here, but the unruly and disobedient behaviors of the people towards the protocols. People should also be considerate and think of other people’s safety and health as well. They’re also risking their life by risking other people’s lives. Yes, wearing face masks and face shield is a great response to the said pandemic, but that won’t protect you from getting infected and that won’t lessen any casualties brought by the disease. Consider the health of those hardworking, exhausted, underpaid frontliners. Be sensitive to your surroundings and peers in order for the country to heal and recover as soon as possible. Last but not least, the on-going developments and progress about the Covid-19. As a person who’s very interested in politics, society, and culture, I go about my day scrolling through the internet, reading articles, watching news and press conferences. I have noticed that the Philippines seem to have been experiencing scarcity when it comes to obtaining developments and progress towards the pandemic. The Philippines lacked sufficient testing supplies; mass testing programs, research and manufacture of important drugs and vaccines, protection, government’s lack of planning in the required medical logistics desired to fight against the uprising Covid-19 cases. It is noticeable that the Philippine government is not clear with their intentions for the crisis the country is facing right now. For now, the country is dependent on other countries in terms of manufacturing vaccines for the Covid-19 due to lack of facilities, funding, and scientists in the country. The only progress the Philippines have is the funding for the upcoming vaccine which will be available in the latter half of 2021.

To sum up, the country is in a battle with its economic catastrophe together with the fatal pandemic, COVID-19. With the government’s incompetence, it is nowhere near feasible for the country to get back on track and recover as soon as possible. Having a eureka moment after 10 months into lockdown is also very unrealistic. It’s not a question anymore as to why the citizens despise the president so much. Nonetheless, the people won't, and will never stop fighting for accountability and transparency. This is a moment for the people to rethink their life decisions, and as quarantine will continue to extend, educate yourselves on the current and future matter.

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omgkindasavage-blog · 7 years ago

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FORTUNE ISLAND: GREEK ELEGANCE IN A FILIPINO PARADISE 🏛Abandoned places always captivates us. Being there or just seeing photos of those once glorious places heightens our senses and imagination; the breaths made, sighs released, and laughter shared in the past are magnified and revived by the solemnity of the place. Most of the time, I catch myself playing inside my head the hustle and bustle of what used to be busy places, making them livelier to me than ever. 🗾In the middle of Luzon's southern waters, just an hour off of the coast of Nasugbu in Batangas lies Fortune Island. As little as it is, this lone Island is hard to ignore with it's boasting of creamy white shores of powdery sands and turquoise waters as cold as ice. Not only that the beach is beguiling to the eyes but it's richness reaches hundreds of meters deep, making its surrounding waters a favorite diving spot. And just where you think thats all there is to this little Island, wait until it charms it's way to your heart. Taking you into some unearthly place created only for gods. Yes, fortune Island is not your typical paradise. It is that and more. Surreal. Mystique. Mystical. So if you need a quick fix with goddess' touch, simply head your way to the Philippines own version of Athens, Greece. Things to do: * Chill. The place has its own charm. Take the time to relax and enjoy with your friends, or by yourself. * Strike a pose. We all love taking pictures. So strike your profile-worthy-poses and take advantage pf the scenery. * Trek to the light house. It will be a tiring-yet-totally-worth-it 30 minutes of your life. * Snorkeling and Scuba Diving. After walking around and making your storage full, why don't you try to appreciate the beauty of the sea. * Camping. If the day trip was not enough, you can bring your own tent and stay on the Island longer. WHAT TO BRING: Day Trip: Water!!! Extra clothes, swimwear, water activity gear (goggles, snorkel gear, etc), sun block, head gear (cap, hats, etc), toiletries, towel, malong or sarong, medicine (allergy, asthma, etc), first aid kit, food and drinks, garbage bags, cameras, and power banks. Camping: Day trip stuff mentioned above + tent, lamp, flashlight, portable stove (and fuel source) and/or grilling essentials, eating and cooking utensils and tools, ice chest, and lots of water. Note: These are only suggested items and things to bring. You are free to bring whatever you think you need for this trip. REMINDERS 1. You have to rough or wrap it out. No fresh water source, no decent bathroom and toilet, no cottages, and no electricity. 2. Bring food and water. There are no meals sold in the island. 3. Leave nothing but footprints. Take your trash with you. If you can, pick up other garbage left by other tourists on the island and dispose them properly when you get back to the mainland. 4. Expect strong waves and rocky coastline. 5. Go there early. For campers, especially during weekends and peak season, it’s better to be there early, so you can find better spot to set your tents. For those going on a day trip, the boatmen will strongly advise and insist that you leave not later than 2pm. In our case, the boatmen wanted to leave the island by 12nn, but we managed to extend until 1pm. We tried bargaining for another extension, but they are very persistent to leave the island. Their reason: strong waves. 6. If you are bringing your car, you can arrange and secure parking space with your contact person. HOW TO GET THERE ✈️ Public Transportation 1. Take the bus from Manila to Nasugbu, Batangas. There are several bus companies with direct route to Nasugbu: DLTB (Buendia Taft Ave corner Sen. Gil Puyat) San Agustin Bus Line(Cubao) Travel time: around 4 hours (depending on the traffic) Fare: Php168 Tell the driver to drop you off Jollibee-Nasugbu. 2. Ride a tricycle to Fortune Island Resort in Brgy Wawa. Fare: Php10-P15 per person 3. At Fortune Island Resort, pay entrance fee: Day Trip: Php300 Overnight/Camping:Php400 4. From Fortune Island Resort (mainland), rent a boat going to Fortune Island. Travel Time: 1 to 1.5 hour Day Trip: Php3000 (5-10 pax) / Php4500 (10+ pax) Overnight/Camping: Php4500 (5-10 pax) / Php6000 (10+ pax) You can find boats for hire outside the resort at a cheaper rate. For example, we found one for only P2500. Private Transportation 1. Via Cavitex: Head to Governor’s Road, and then continue onto Nasugbu -Ternate Highway until you reach Nasugbu. You will see Jollibee, and then make a right turn to C. Alvares Street. Keep on driving straight until you reach Apacible Blvd, onto which you will make a right turn. Just stay on that road and you’ll reach Fortune Island Resort. 2. Via SLEX: Exit to Sta Rosa, and then turn right. Continue onto Tagaytay-Sta Rosa Road. From Tagaytay, continue onto Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway until you reach Palico. Make a right turn to Palico-Nasugbu Highway. At the end of Palico-Nasugbu Highway, make a right turn. Continue driving until you reach Nasugbu town proper. Make a right turn to C. Alvares Street, and continue driving. Turn right to Apacible Blvd, and then continue driving until you find Fortune Island Resort. So what are you waiting for? Look for a travel buddy and experience the gods' paradise : Fortune Island

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germainetrittle86 · 5 years ago

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Sablayan (Mis)adventures

I am usually stressed out by long, drawn-out travel times with tedious transfers before reaching your destination. But there was a point in my life when my sense of adventure, (or was it my dedication to my advocacies) that made me throw caution to the wind and allow myself to endure the experience.

Region IV-B has always been problematic when it comes to rendering technical assistance because it is composed of several “island” provinces. But bringing all participants to one place like Manila is very costly and oftentimes results in limited representation. Thus, it is admittedly much cheaper if the Resource Person/Speaker is the one to go visit them instead. As it is, even if my invitation is usually via our DSWD regional offices, I always oblige if the respective provincial governments manage to find a budget and organize a training/seminar for their local social welfare officers, regional Federation of Senior Citizens of the Philippines (FSCAP) officers and appointed Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) Heads.

Sometime in 2012, I was contacted by the Senior Citizens Focal Person of MIMAROPA because of an invitation from the Provincial Social Welfare Officer of Occidental Mindoro. I had been to Oriental Mindoro before, particularly in Calapan and Naujan, but this was the other side. So apparently, while we flew in from Manila to San Jose where their airport is located, we needed to travel by land to Sablayan which is our venue. Fortunately, our satellite office there managed to provide a vehicle to transport us over rough dirt roads as dust flew all around us. I noticed that there was a clear road network but they were neither paved nor properly asphalted for vehicles. We passed by wide river areas where much quarrying was being done, and I half expected it would partly be for their roadwork at least. Later on I would find out that roadwork and other infrastructure hardly gets finished in these parts because of the harassment from NPA rebels. It was a long ride and by the time we reached the place, we were hungry as hell.

I thought the problematic travel arrangement issues ended with the long bumpy ride, but I was wrong. The lodgings provided us did not even give me a solo room, or at the very least, a double-sharing room with my fellow speaker. I was to share with at least 2 other staff. Then again, the only available accommodation was a small pensionne house which I believe used to be a motel (read: short-time). To make matters worse, the PSWDO did not even speak to the hotel to prepare our noon meal. We had to wait for another two hours before it was served and it wasn’t even tasty at all.

But I remained optimistic, and decided to give our hosts the benefit of the doubt. In the afternoon, I decided to go around and check out the plaza. Mindoro is known for its local indigenous tribe, the Mangyans. They were the original settlers there who thrived in the mountains as well as by the coastlines. But the Tagalogs came over from Batangas and started farming the plains, and they were relegated to the fringes of society.

By sheer luck, there was a small sari-sari store there which sold softdrinks and a bit of ihaw-ihaw. I quickly jumped at the chance of buying myself a good merienda at least. So over grilled hotdogs and Coke, my colleague and “trainee-Resource Speaker”, Weng, planned for our session the next day. Midway through her second hotdog, she barfed it out saying it tasted spoiled. The lady selling the hotdogs offered to replace it, but we had both lost our appetite.

That evening, we were told that we would have to return to Manila via another route, and the MIMAROPA staff would not be accompanying us anymore. They had to stay and do other recognizance work with the satellite office. Weng and I were to travel to Abra de Ilog by bus and from there catch a Ro-Ro for Batangas port. I was already busy computing the hours in my head..it was around two hours from Sablayan to Abra de Ilog, passing by the towns of Sta.Cruz and Mamburao, then another 2 hours at least crossing over water to Batangas port, and finally, another two hours bus ride for Manila.

I honestly felt offended for not having been treated better since I already made the effort to come visit them. The least the organizers could do, both from the PSWDO and Field Office was to take better care of us. But I felt they were acting like it was I who owed them a favor for making this trip. I was already making so many mental notes at this point because several other provinces requested for similar training-seminars during the last regional assembly in Manila (That time, I went to the DSWD MIMAROPA office at Kansas, but they failed to inform me that the real venue was at SWADCAP in Taguig, so that’s another story.) I could only hope that they would treat us better.

So the 4-hour seminar was held at the Senior Citizens Center renovated through the help of then Vice-President Jejomar Binay. To the credit of the senior citizens of the place, it had an office for the OSCA Head, a spacious room for short-term accommodation in case of evacuation, a pantry and another office space for medical missions. The outdoor covered space had a small stage for programs and trainings like ours. The talk went well, mostly clarification on the appointment of OSCA Heads and the real role of FSCAP officers. But the usual controversies dealt with the implementation of the Social Pension program.

Later that day, we had enough time to go around and see their old lighthouse at Presing Park. Dating back when it was used as a look-out for Spanish and Americans alike, the lighthouse has since been refurbished and modernized to continue its vital function. The “parola park” still has some old Spanish cannons from long ago, overlooking the South China Sea and the famous Apo Reef, the so-called center of biodiversity. This is the reason scuba divers flock to Sablayan - it has one of the best diving destinations because of the abundance of marine life. We could have done a glass-bottom boat ride, but once again our hosts failed to arrange for it. I was expecting a decent tour at least, but they couldn’t offer us anything more after seeing that alleged miniature version of the Golden Gate suspension bridge. Later research showed me they actually had an old Spanish church in town and a Sablayan Museum. Oh well…so much for so-called “hosts”.

With nothing else to hope for, Weng and I opted to leave at the earliest possible time. We were told there was a night trip for Abra de Ilog so we could reach Batangas port by dawn. Personally, I would not have risked a nighttime sea-crossing, but we were desperate to get home. Afterwards, sharing my story with a veteran community organizer-friend, he informed me that my greater risk then was travelling at night when NPA rebels could have stopped us. But I didn't know that fact then. So we grabbed the chance and they sent over some pansit to serve as our baon. Truth be told, that pansit turned out to be spoiled again, but thankfully, we had some drinks to tide us over.

We slept through the bumpy ride to Abra de Ilog, awoke to disembark for the RoRo to Batangas, then slept some more until we reached Manila. It was the best we can do so as not to get hungry. By the time we reached Alabang, we were starving and we scrounged around for the quickest bite so early in the morning. Fortunately, bus terminals always offer something for bus drivers, conductors and travelers alike. There was 3 in 1 coffee, instant noodles, crackers or biscuits, and chips. Before Weng and I went our separate ways (she was going South-bound, home to Cavite), I bought some food to munch on and a drink for the other hour or so to Quezon City. On the North-bound bus home, I heaved a sigh of relief that our misadventure ended the minute we left Sablayan. I just wish I had more pleasant memories of the place.

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phgq · 5 years ago

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Batangas Province under state of calamity due to Taal Volcano eruption

#PHinfo: Batangas Province under state of calamity due to Taal Volcano eruption

BAY, Laguna, January 13 (PIA) —The Provincial Council of Batangas has declared a State of Calamity in the province today.

The Provincial Council approved the Resolution No. 36 year 2020, declaring the Province of Batangas under State of Calamity due to the effects of the eruption of Taal Volcano.

According to the Batangas Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), as of 11 am today, the total evacuation of residents within the 14-kilometer radius from Taal Volcano is ongoing and the number of families affected has now reached almost 3,000 or an equivalent of about 16,000 individuals.

The Taal Volcano is currently on Alert Level 4 which means continuous volcanic earthquakes and worse eruptive activities in its Main Crater are expected to occur, causing ashfall around the province, nearby provinces and a large part of Luzon.

“Nais kong ibahagi sa lahat ng mga Batangueño na kumikilos ang pamahalaan para matulungan ang lahat ng apektado at maiwasan ang anumang casualties (I want all Batangueños to know that the government is working hard to help everyone who is affected and avoid any casualty),” Batangas Governor Hermilando Mandanas affirmed during a media briefing.

He assured that the province is prepared and augmentation from other provincial governments and government agencies are on its way.

In fact, Batangas PDRRMO, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and many other government agencies have already deployed sea ambulances, trucks and other emergency vehicles into the lakeshore municipalities.

Relief goods from the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) are readily in place, while, over 20,000 N95 masks from Department of Health (DOH) are set to be delivered and then distributed to the affected individuals.

So far, it is fortunate that there was zero casualty in the Volcano Island given that residents therein have already been evacuated based on PDRRMO report.

As per PDRRMO Chief Joselito Castro, the most affected localities are the towns of Talisay, Laurel, Agoncillo, and San Nicolas. (Joy Gabrido with reports from PIO Batangas Capitol)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "Batangas Province under state of calamity due to Taal Volcano eruption." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1032711 (accessed January 13, 2020 at 09:04PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "Batangas Province under state of calamity due to Taal Volcano eruption." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1032711 (archived).

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

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mrwilliamcharley · 7 years ago

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How to Experience Fortune Island in Style

Fortune Island lies off the coast of Nasugbu in Batangas, Philippines. It’s a small, private island that offers a quick escape from the mainland, with breathtaking views, towering limestone cliffs, and its very own taste of Athens.

A structure resembling the Acropolis sits on top of a cliff, overlooking the turquoise waters beneath. Although first impressions are those of ancient Greek ruins, you’re actually looking at the crumbling remains of a luxury resort that was built on the island in the 1980s, but closed down in 2006; a luxurious resort was difficult to sustain on an island with no fresh water source. However, the spot lends a mythical charm to the island and has become an incredibly popular with travellers looking to snap great holiday shots.

Why visit Fortune Island?

If exploring a stunning location off the beaten track calls to you, then Fortune Island is your place. Here you can dip into the cool, deep blue waters, relax on the white sandy beaches and take quality snaps of the stunning scenery to show off your adventures to friends and family back home. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which is November through to June.

It’s entirely possible to experience the luxurious side of this beautiful region without seriously denting your bank balance. There are plenty of adventures to be had, and numerous fun activities that will all add up to an unforgettable experience.

Here’s what you need to know about traveling to Fortune Island…

Best accommodation near to Fortune Island

As there is no fresh water source, electricity, or commercial accommodation on the island, you’ll need to camp if you want to stay overnight. If so, plan to bring camping equipment and provisions with you – including plenty of drinking water! There are no stores, restaurants, or accommodation on the island itself, but there is at least a mobile data signal.

Stardust Beach Hotel, Matabungkay Beach

Stardust Beach Hotel is situated right on the coast, practically opposite Fortune Island. It’s considered one of the best places to stay in the area. What makes it special is that it’s not remotely typical of a Philippino resort. It’s a David Bowie-themed resort with a French touch. Naturally Bowie fans are going to love this, but even if not, it’s worth booking for the comfortable king-sized beds and stylishly decorated, homely rooms.

The hotel also has an inviting clear blue swimming pool, and the beach is just a few metres away. It’s an orderly place where peace is kept as standard, staff are friendly and there’s plenty of good, affordable food onsite – the homemade whole wheat bread is a particular hit with guests. Expect to pay around 2,800PHP per night.

Coral Beach Club, Matabungkay Beach

Coral beach club is another popular choice. Also situated on Matabunkay beach, it’s one of the closest options to Fortune Island. Coral Bay is Australian owned, it’s not a huge resort but does boast a spa where you can get a massage after a long day of exploring, and there’s a small swimming pool for those times you need a refreshing dip. If jacuzzis are your thing, you’ll be happy to know that Coral Beach offers one of those too.

You’ll only need to walk 20 metres to be on the beach, and you’ll have a spacious room, with a set-up comparable to a 4 star hotel. Bathrooms are sizeable, you’ve got decent air-conditioning and management are very accommodating. The restaurant has a good menu with reasonable prices, and there are even happy hour deals on beer and cocktails.

Things to do on Fortune Island

The island appeals to a range of visitors, from those eager for adventure to those happiest relaxing on a beach. Whatever your motivation for visiting this gorgeous island, there is plenty to keep you entertained.

Cliff diving

Adventurers will love this one. Nothing gets the adrenaline pumping more than throwing yourself into the air and dropping down into the ocean below. At Fortune Island you find some great cliff jumping spots, between 15 and 30 feet high.

Snorkelling and diving

There’s plenty of marine life in these crystal clear waters; snorkelling and free-diving are popular activities on Fortune Island. You can ask your boat captain to take you to a good spot; just remember to bring your own snorkelling equipment.

There are also several excellent diving spots around the island. ‘Blue Hole’ is characterized by spectacular underwater architecture; three large holes in the reef open into a vast cavern, so it would be a shame to miss out on such a mesmerising scene. Also check out the deep valleys at Fortune NW diving site, which drop down over 120 feet and are dotted with unusual coral formations.

Visit a shipwreck

Visit the shipwreck near Fortune Island if you’re interested in checking out the remnants of the warship San Diego that sunk in the 1700s. Scuba diving fans can request to be dropped at this underwater museum ship, where they can explore the stern and keel. Dive down to 65 feet, and you’ll even see a VW mini-bus!

Swimming and relaxing on the beach

With plenty of white sandy beaches, there’s ample opportunity to take it easy. Sit back and relax while watching the waves rolling in. Be warned, the waves can get a little rough on the beach, so swim with caution.

Take a hike up to the lighthouse

The trek to the lighthouse on the highest point on the island takes about 30 minutes but the views are simply stunning. You could also hike around the island, which is only 27 hectares, so it doesn’t take too long.

Take photos at the Grecian ruins

The island is full of Grecian architecture. Here you can find the signature pillars of Parthenon, mythical creatures and sculptures of ancient gods. There is also a photo-worthy replica of the San Diego as well (the warship that sank off the island).

For all you Instagram fans and avid photographers, the best time of day to get the best Fortune Island shots is between 1 pm and 3 pm, when the sun is at a lower point.

How to get to Fortune Island

The nearest airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport, also known as Manila International Airport. If you’re traveling from Manila, you can either opt for public transport, drive by car, or hire a van (which is a great option if you’re in a bigger group) to get to the town of Nasugbu.

There are several direct routes offered by DLTB and San Agustin Bus Line. The journey takes about four hours, and fares cost around Php168 ($3.20) per person. The best stop to get off at is Jollibee-Nasugbu and you can either take a 20 minute walk or ride a tricycle to Fortune Island Resort on the mainland. Cost is between Php10-15 ($0.20 – $0.29).

When you get to Fortune Island Dive Resort, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee to get to the island. Day trips cost Php300 ($6). Finally, you’ll need to hire a boat to take you to Fortune Island, which takes between an hour and an hour and a half. Boat rental costs are usually Php3000 ($58) for groups of 5 to 10 people, or Php4500 for groups of over 10 people.

Although Fortune Island is remote, with a little forward planning it’s quite easy to get to. If you’re staying in the Batanga area, it’s the ideal spot for a day trip to experience wonderful scenery and take some great pictures at the Greek ruins. Who wouldn’t love the chance to watch a sunset or sunrise over this beautiful Filipino island? Enjoy your trip.

About the guest author

Cal Bailey runs MountainLeon.com – a travel blog he started after two years backpacking around the world. If you want to learn more about life on the road or tips for travelling, make sure you read his blog!

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