Pandilusan Island White Sand

Modernizing Maritime Travel in Philippines

Philippines is an archipelago of 7,017 islands and the common means of travel from one island to another is by sea and one issue that needs to be stress is the safety and quality of maritime travel in the country. Philippines is known to the world as one of the worst country in maritime travel.  The governments of United States, United Kingdom, Australia and Canada issued an advice to its citizens not to take interisland ferries in the Philippines because it is overloaded, substandard and lack of necessary lifesaving equipment, are not adequately maintained and have incomplete passenger manifest.

In terms of significant loss of lives in the sea accidents- the Philippines holds the world record for the worst peacetime maritime disaster in history, With an estimated loss of 4000 lives, the 24 year old Dona Paz collided with the tanker Vector in Tablas Strait in 1987. The disaster became an imperative to modernize the Philippines Maritime travel, replacing the old, substandard vessels that are unsafe.

Due to lack of international classification, standard and age, the current aging fleet of interisland vessels are impossible to effectively insure and pose a threat to human life.

Two main circulars issued by MARINA (Maritime Industry Authority) will set the minimum age, quality and class standards for passenger and RO-RO passengers will not only improve the safety of life at sea for interisland travel but also open routes to market players who are better to meet the challenge of modernization.

There are two main interisland routes plying in maritime travel- the Passenger vessels and the Ro-Ro (Roll on, Roll Off) vessels. The Passenger are big vessels routing in open seas and usually transporting from and to major cities. The Ro-Ro vessels are smaller and transporting people and cargos across the countries neighboring islands and it has been a backbone of countries interisland trade and commerce.

Most Ro-Ro vessels in the Philippines are substandard, I’ll maintained and very old with an average of 30 years old. Most of them are imported used vessels from Japan. In Japan, once a Ro-Ro reaches 20 years, it is no longer allowed to be used on trading and travel. So, these retired Ro-Ro’s are usually sold to Philippines, Indonesia and some Asian countries, therefore, the majority of the Ro-Ro in the Philippines are above 20 years old. They are usually repaired and modified to add more passenger capacity making it unsafe due to overloading.

Because of these, Marina has issues 2 major circulars to ensure safety and modernization of maritime travel.

The first would require that no secondhand Ro-Ro vessel of 5,000 gross tonnage and below will be imported unless it is 15 years old or below, and that it be fully classified by an IACS member.

The second circular would require that within five years, or by Dec. 31, 2019, Ro-Ros of  5,000 gross tonnage and below, may be allowed to operate provided:

They are not more than 35 years old

Fully classed

With Protection and Indemnity (P and I) insurance, a third-party insurance to cover oil spill, collision of vessels, death and removal of wreckage.

During the period, no major alterations on any Ro-Ro vessel will be allowed unless: (a) it is  approved by and under the supervision of an IACS member; and (b) class-maintained throughout. Marina can continue to use its supervisory powers by conducting periodic inspections of the Ro-Ro vessels and their crew.

And MARINA ensures the compliance of these circulars, by increasing frequency and constantly doing survey. With these circulars in place and provided, it has remain strict in its implementation, now we can foresee that the old Ro-Ro will be scrapped and replaced as it will be uneconomical to use them. Shipbuilding is now already expected for the next five years. It is expected that the modernization will be completed in the next 6-7 years, and the general public can expect a comfortable and safe interisland travel.

6 Best Dive Spots in Palawan

Ever since the underwater diving made possible in the 1940’s, it had opened a window for man to take a brief excursion into the rich mysteries of the underwater world.  Equip with gears for diving, sometimes with camera for the so inclined, a diver is encircled by underwater creatures and landscapes that takes you out of this world. You will be estranged, thinking you’re in a different world.

You later appreciate and realize that in the ocean, you’re just a guest, and the school of fish that horde by you are the natives. It creates a stir of something primeval in you. Among with Sharks, sea creatures and coral reefs, eccentrically - you will feel at home. And as you get back on land, you will long for the next dive into the ocean’s depth. As diving, only few of leisure activities that gives you the unearthly sense and Palawan has the marine paradise that equal to few dive spots in world. Here are some of the best dive sites in Palawan.

Tagbao Island, El Nido

Located North West off of Miniloc, there a two tiny islands called Tagbao and cuddling between these islands are three important reefs. It is a perfect place for diving beginners as the water can be comfortably shallow. Be ready to be welcomed by plentiful crayfish and beautiful corals. El Nido is considered one of the best diving spots not only in the Philippines but all over the world.

Tubbataha Reef

Boasting no less than 600 species of fish, 360 coral species, 11 shark species, 13 Whale and dolphin species, Tubbataha Reef is one of the best dive spots in the world according to CNN Travel. This Natural Marine Park is located about 150Km Southeast of Puerto Princessa or 10hrs away by boat. It is part of the island municipality of Cagayancillo, Palawan. This Natural Marine Park was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage site in December 1993 and knows as the global center of marine diversity. The Park entrance is at around Php3,000 or USD $75.00 for tourist and a free entrance for the locals.

Kalambuyan Reef, Coron Bay

Located quite far from Coron town, 30 minutes away Northwest off Okikawa Maru, a famous shipwreck dive spot. This site flourishes with diverse underwater creatures that mesmerized you with its unparalleled beauty of coral reefs, fishes and sea monsters. Don’t forget to bring an underwater camera to capture its beauty. The current during summer is strong that’s why you need to be extra careful.

The Wall, Roxas

Though it sounds scary and intimidating, do not be fooled by its name. Located 20 Minutes off the main island by boat ride. The Wall is one of the best dive spots in Palawan, with its beauty and diverse underwater life. It is an excellent spot for beginners and underwater photographers.

Cuttlefish Shawl, Puerto Princesa

If you’re looking for an exciting dive, Cuttlefish Shaw is the perfect destination in the island of Puerto Princesa. The site is quite challenging to some divers and due to its depth, the site is only for experience divers. However, it is worth an effort due the beauty and diverse sea creature lies beneath it. The site has various sea turtles, barracuda, angel fish and of course, the cuttlefish. When diving this spot, it is recommended to have a guide with you especially if it’s your first time visiting the place.

Bulawit Bay, Linapacan

For those who are in tight budget but willing to take the plunge, Bulawit Bay is the right place for you. Located in the island of Linapacan, Bulawit Bay has shallow water with an average depth of 35 meters suitable for divers in all levels. Its sea floor is covered with sea grass with many starfish, and in the drop point you can sight some remarkable marine life like barracudas, pipe fish, ribbon fish and eels.

So, when you’re in Palawan, never hesitate to grab the moment and the opportunity to take the plunge. As divers quoted, “We dive not to escape life, but for life not to escape us!”

The Mountain wins World’s Strongest Man 2018 in Philippines

4 types of people you could meet in the Philippines

Philippines has 7,107 islands, along the way of your travels, you’ll get to meet so many friendly people, Here are some few ones that you may encounter on your journey.

Tourism Experts
Everywhere you go in the Philippines, there are lots of friendly folks that are willing to help you out in your travel destination. You will get to bump amazing Filipinos who are passionate about their country, willing to sit you down, offer you foods and gives you list of places to see and where to stay. Most of these people are total strangers you will meet up in the road, if you’re lucky enough to make friends with somebody who is very passionate about their country, listen to them- they know the best spots.

Adventurers
These people are always in thirst of adventures, people that are crawling in every cave, climbing and hiking the highest peak, conquering every jungle in 7000 islands and diving and surfing every waves. With friendly face, clad with gears and gadgets for adventures. They’re always coming from a mile off with their back packs, with bottle of alcohol stashed away, sits down anywhere in a bonfire.

Boozers
If you’re looking for a good time, get wasted or just to chill at night, You can always fine good companies with this people in Bars, clubs and even small stores. Beers and other alcohols are available anywhere. In the Philippines, These people are often found with a glass of beer on their hand, abstract smile and invites friends, acquaintance, or just a passerby in the table to take some shots of booze, join the group and tell some good stories.

Selfie Pals
These people are always armed  with a smarthphone, often with selfie sticks or a camera in their neck ready to take pictures and document the moments.

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Philippines Cost of Living

When expats ask about the cost of living in the Philippines, generally that question is quite not easy to answer. Compared to other major South East Asian Countries, Manila is ranked as the 117^th most expensive cities out of 214 cities surveyed. Manila- the capital city has a cost of living lower than Jakarta, Singapore or Bangkok.

Within the country, the cost of living varies depending of where one is living, whether it’s a city life or province life. Overall, the most expensive is Manila and Cebu ranked closely behind.

You don’t need to be millionaire or have a trust fund to live a comfortable life in Philippines. Some expats or even locals don’t consider Philippines a third world country, although poverty is obvious, there are still lot of wealth and is still way too far compare to places like Pakistan.

Right now, the exchange rate is $1 – 52 pesos, For an American or European salary, Philippines cost of living is very doable. If you’re making at least $1200 a month, you can live pretty easily here, it’s not a hand-to-mouth living that I’m talking about, It would be decent and comfortable life.

Anyone who decides to move to Philippines for few months or years will most like to rent a condo, apartment or even a house. The cost of the rent is considerably depending on which type of accommodation and on which part of the country you choose. To give you an idea, In Meto Manila - A large 3 bedroom condo will cost you P39,000 to P80,000 in city center while on other parts of the metro such as Quezon city, will cost you P15,000 to P25,000 a month, complete with gym facility, swimming pool and some appliances and a security guard, But if you don’t want to spend that amount for a shelter, forgo the swimming pool and gym, there are lots of cheaper options and still perfectly safe. There is a lodging option that is unique here in the Philippines, something like a combination of apartment and hotel called Apartelle. You can get some amenities of the hotel but you can stay a long time and it’s not expensive.

Food, depends on your taste, In big cities like Metro Manila or Cebu, meat is much cheaper than seafood, and in some provincial places, seafood is very cheap. There are also restaurants that offer cheap, decent servings depending on the luxury you want. Cow’s milk and some dairy products are quite expensive here, Soda and coffee is pretty cheap, Beer is really cheap here, the two stable beer brands here are San Miguel and Red horse and will cost only 35 – 40 Pesos a can.

Transportation in big cities you usually do is through taxis. Taxis in the Philippines are quite cheap also, with a base fare of P40. If you’re down where the action is, you won’t be paying maybe a buck or two for taxi. There are also other transportation options, Jeepneys- sort of a miniature bus are everywhere in the cities. They ride on routes on major roads of the city in just 8 pesos for the first kilometer. City buses are also everywhere in just 12 pesos on first kilometer. IF you want to cross over to another island, Local flights are very cheap if you book earlier from a promo price of P400, P2000- P6000 for regular flights, Boats and ship are cheap depends on destination, Manila to Cebu can cost P1200 to P2000.

One thing I would recommend before going to Philippines is that you will need a location independent source of income, or a pile of savings. If possible you have both because Philippines does not have lots of job opportunities for foreigners. Unlike Thailand or Cambodia where a lot of job opportunities when it comes to English teaching. Everyone in the Philippines already speaks English.