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Arab News
a day ago
- Politics
- Arab News
Philippines passes law designating national day for hijab awareness
MANILA: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed a law recognizing the Muslim headscarf as part of the country's traditional garment culture and designating a special day to increase awareness of it. The new law, signed on Wednesday, declares Feb. 1 each year as the National Day of Awareness on the Hijab and Other Traditional Garments and Attire 'to promote diversity, awareness, and tolerance of the various religious and cultural beliefs through the wearing of indigenous and traditional clothing, head garments and coverings.' Government institutions, in coordination with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, will under the law organize events 'that promote the cultural values of wearing the hijab and other traditional garments and attire.' Muslims constitute about 10 percent of the country's 110 million predominantly Catholic population. Most Philippine Muslims live on the southern island of Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, as well as in the central-western province of Palawan. The move to recognize the Muslim garment was welcomed by the community as a step toward promoting inclusion. 'When the government does that, it's a recognition of the importance of hijabs to the Muslims. It's really promoting inclusiveness in society, and it is honoring the Muslim women,' Dr. Potre Dunampatan-Diampuan, a Filipina Muslim scholar from the United Religions Initiative, told Arab News. For Samira Gutoc, chairperson of the rights advocacy group Ako Bakwit, the new law meant that she was being seen as equal in nation-building. 'We, hijabis, aim to be part of the workforce — not just in the Philippine National Police or army, but to work alongside all,' she said. 'It is a vital measure promoting awareness, respect and acceptance of the hijab, reinforcing the rights of Muslim women to practice their faith freely.' The National Day of Awareness on the Hijab and Other Traditional Garments and Attire will coincide with World Hijab Day, which has been observed on Feb. 1 since 2013 to promote understanding and awareness about Muslim religious and cultural practices. 'Muslim women in the Philippines had been looking forward to the time when they would be seen as equal — treated equally, without any judgment,' Princess Habibah Sarip-Paudac, the Philippines' first news anchor to wear a hijab on national television, told Arab News. 'We are so happy with this (law's) passage. It only means that the government is acknowledging the concerns of its people and it is after inclusivity.'
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Travel + Leisure
13-06-2025
- Travel + Leisure
This Beach Was Named No. 1 in Asia—and It Has Powdery White Sand, Crystal-clear Waters, and Majestic Rock Formations
The Philippines is made up of 7,641 islands, and this stunning archipelago is famous for its natural beauty and diverse coral reefs. This island nation is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the world. In fact, World's 50 Best Beaches just named Entalula Beach in Palawan, a province in the Philippines, the best beach in Asia—and the second best beach in the world. Entalula Beach is part of the El Nido region of Palawan. Its sandy white shores are surrounded by clear, turquoise water. This tropical paradise is surrounded by looming limestone cliffs and dotted with lush vegetation. Visitors can snorkel through vibrant coral reefs that are just a short swim from the shore, or they can search for hidden coves by paddle board or kayak. After a long day in the water, the palm trees and powdery sand provide the perfect spot to enjoy a good book or suntan session. Entalula Beach is largely beloved thanks to its seclusion. Visitors can only access the beach by boat, which takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The surrounding islands ensure that the journey will be just as beautiful as the destination. This also makes the beach far less busy than others in the El Nido region, and the peace and quiet allow travelers the chance to fully immerse themselves in nature. The beach is just as beautiful below the water as it is above it. Scuba divers enjoy exploring the west bay of Entalula Island, which has a beautiful coral garden and El Nido's famous limestone wall diving site. Divers commonly spot sharks, whales, dolphins, and turtles off the coast of the island. There are many tours that take travelers from El Nido to Entalula Beach. These also often include visits to the Secret Lagoon, Cudugnon Cave, and other islands in the area. For the most serene experience, travelers are advised to opt for the early morning tours that avoid the crowds. In addition to its gorgeous beaches, the Philippines is also known for its bustling cities, delightful cuisine, and warm hospitality. This is a country where each island opens the door to a new adventure–whether it is swimming with dugongs in Calauit Island or hiking Bohol's Chocolate Hills.
Daily Mail
11-06-2025
- Daily Mail
I visited the real-life Neverland and met the 'Lost Boys' - there's only one way to get there
Finding Neverland was not on the agenda when I opened Google Maps and clicked through random destinations to decide my next holiday. Yet here I am on a desert island, surrounded by towering sea cliffs and shipwrecks along an ancient pirate route in the Palawan archipelago of the Philippines. The Lost Boys brought me here: to the uninhabited island of Cadlao, off the coast of El Nido. But rather than the characters imagined by J.M. Barrie, these Lost Boys are the crew of Tao Philippines, running group expeditions across the West Philippine Sea. These remarkable seafarers, many the sons of ex-pirates, were raised among the 11 islands we are exploring on a five-night cruise covering 155 miles (250km) from El Nido, on Palawan Island, to Coron, on Busuanga. They can navigate the archipelago without a map, catch fish from the boat, climb coconut trees and have a cheeky, but kind. sense of spirit. Our vessel for the first two days is a 74ft wooden Paraw, a traditional Filipino sailboat with tribal carvings and rigging, followed by a more modern boat to cross choppier waters. As we set sail from El Nido port, we are accompanied by a pod of dolphins leaping from the water just metres from the deck while hundreds of tropical butterflies soar between the sails. Laura Sharman visits the uninhabited island of Cadlao, off the coast of El Nido in the Philippines, with help from the 'Lost Boys', the crew of Tao Philippines These remarkable seafarers, many the sons of ex-pirates, were raised among the 11 islands Laura and her group explore on a five-night cruise covering 155 miles (250km) from El Nido Of the Philippines' 7,641 islands, we are staying on five of the most remote, sleeping in bamboo huts on otherwise deserted beaches with the bare essentials – a mattress, mosquito net, modest toilet block, and a picnic bench for sharing meals which are all included in the voyage. Some of the islands lack fresh water so our shower is alfresco, made from a hosepipe and a water tank hung from a tree. We're warned to keep our mouths closed while washing and use bottled water for teeth brushing to avoid an upset stomach. These secluded settings are made possible by Tao's collaboration with local councils which guarantees a minimal ecological impact on these otherwise unvisited islands, keeping them wild. Each day, the Lost Boys fish for our supper, reeling in yellowfin tuna, squid, tilapia and barracuda. This is then barbecued and served on a giant banana leaf with 'Filipino power' – their name for the country's staple dish, garlic rice. It's the definition of sea-to-plate. On our first night, here on Cadlao Island, the feast takes place under the light of our head torches and laughter fills the table, free from the distractions of electricity or Wi-Fi. Of the Philippines' 7,641 islands, Laura is staying on five of the most remote, sleeping in bamboo huts with just a mattress, mosquito net, modest toilet block, and a picnic bench for sharing meals Each day, the Lost Boys fish for the evening meal, reeling in yellowfin tuna, squid, tilapia and barracuda The Lost Boys know just where to drop the anchor for this hidden paradise and we swim to shore accompanied by a school of fish dancing at our feet. Its staggering limestone cliffs, dense vegetation and enchanting lagoon are reminiscent of Peter Pan's Neverland. Beyond its playful monkeys, fascinating monitor lizards and elusive snakes, this uninhabited gem stands as the largest island in the El Nido archipelago with the tallest peak, reaching 609 metres above sea level. And we have it all to ourselves for the night. The trumpeting of a conch shell marks the start of a new day and we set sail for Daracotan Island after an aubergine omelette on the beach. Starfish larger than my palm decorate the seabed and clownfish retreat into their shelters as we explore the El Nido Shipwreck - a tugboat wreck that succumbed to Typhoon Herming in 1987. But it's the deadly box jellyfish that are the most mesmerising marine life we see on our voyage, during the third night, spent on Culion Island. Approaching the shore via a tropical valley, we observe the enormous translucent creatures being swept beneath the boat's bow and I dread to think what would happen if I were to dive in for a swim. Yet the island's 23,000 residents seem largely unphased by their presence, wading out to their boats barefoot. Once known as the 'Island of No Return,' this haunting destination served as the world's largest leprosarium in the early 1900s during the American colonisation, the Lost Boys tell me. Many were banished here under Act 1711 of the Philippine Commission and up to 60 per cent of those treated did not survive their first four years on the island. What was a place of despair slowly evolved into a community of more than 400 households, leading to a sanitary system, hospital, theatre, town hall and school. Stepping onto the island via a rickety pontoon, I am grateful to hear that it is now leprosy-free. It's hard to imagine its dark history as we make our way to our bamboo huts beneath a forest canopy speckled with Pink Rain Lilies. Now it's a very different place. In a clearing bordered by fire torches, women from the neighbouring Coring village are offering a one-hour full body massage for just 1,500 Philippine Pesos (£20), with their children sat beside them playing on smartphones. And by the waterfront is now a manmade plunge pool overlooking the enchanting albeit jellyfish-infested valley. WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR TAO EXPEDITION A 30-litre dry bag to store your belongings for the trip while your main suitcase will remain on the boat Travel insurance including emergency evacuation cover Portable charger Refillable water bottle Cap or hat Sun protection Head torch Jellyfish guard Reef shoes and sandals Small towel and swimwear Lightweight rain jacket Sarong Anti-mosquito spray Rehydration salts and anti-diarrhea tablets Plasters Camera of choice Nearby, the Lost Boys are serving fried lentil balls with Filipino power and vegetables and our team leader Joshua is strumming a guitar by a crackling bonfire. The only activities - besides feasting - are sharing stories by the fire and dancing under the stars. Thirty-two miles (52km) away is our next stop Manlihan Island. Often referred to as Cobra Island, it is tied to a local legend which speaks of Japanese soldiers hiding treasure here during WWII. When fishermen found the chest, it was supposedly decorated with a magnificent golden cobra. Today, the treasure hunt unfolds beneath the surrounding waters teeming with vibrant coral gardens and turtles. Tucking into breakfast onboard the boat, we spot one peeking its head above the water and are soon swimming alongside it. The expedition culminates on Mangenguey Island, at a Crusoe-style camp built from the remains of a typhoon-wrecked resort. Other than feasting, the only activities on this island are dancing under the stars and sharing stories by the fire Its white sands feel like a plush carpet and the water is so clear you can see the bottom when your feet no longer touch the ground. Unlike previous basecamps, this one is not short of amenities with beach volleyball, basketball, lounge spaces with hammocks, a fire dancing show and a beach bar serving beer, wine and cocktails. Behind it all is a dry, grassy hill topped with three bamboo towers for the ultimate sundowners. From here, I look for the second star to the right and am reminded of where it all began on Cadlao Island, the 'Neverland of the Philippines'
Al Bawaba
03-06-2025
- General
- Al Bawaba
Philippines eyes HIV public health emergency amid 500% youth surge
Published June 3rd, 2025 - 06:21 GMT The country now has the highest number of new HIV infections in the Western Pacific Region. As of March 2025, a total of 148,831 HIV cases have been documented nationwide since 1984. ALBAWABA- The Philippine Department of Health (DOH) is pushing to declare HIV a national public health emergency following a staggering 500% increase in cases among Filipino youth aged 15 to 25. Also Read Millions to begin sacred Hajj journey tomorrow from Mina According to the Philippine News Agency, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, in a video message on Tuesday, warned of an accelerating crisis, citing the diagnosis of a 12-year-old child in Palawan, the youngest recorded case to date. Herbosa noted that while he did not detail youth-specific figures, the country now has the highest number of new HIV infections in the Western Pacific Region. As of March 2025, a total of 148,831 HIV cases have been documented nationwide since 1984. Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa has urged President Marcos to declare a national public health emergency over Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), warning that the Philippines now records the highest increase in new HIV cases in the world. READ:… — Manila Bulletin News (@manilabulletin) June 2, 2025 Alarmingly, 5,101 new cases were recorded in the first quarter alone, up from 3,409 in the same period last year. This brings the daily average to 57 new infections, compared to 37 previously. 'If we don't act now, the number of people living with HIV in the Philippines could surpass 400,000,' Herbosa cautioned. He said that declaring a public health emergency would mobilize a whole-of-government response, crucial to stemming the tide of new infections. Since 2007, HIV transmission in the country has been predominantly among males having sex with males, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. The DOH is advocating for a combination prevention strategy that includes consistent condom use, lubricants, and pre-exposure prophylaxis. Also Read Gaza truce fails over unexpected Israeli Obstacles Free, confidential HIV testing is available through government services, and those who test positive are urged to begin antiretroviral therapy immediately. To support treatment, PhilHealth offers an enhanced Outpatient HIV Treatment Package, providing up to PHP58,500 annually per patient, covering medication and related care. Herbosa, a member of the UNAIDS Board, emphasized the importance of international collaboration to address the growing epidemic and ensure sustainable access to resources. © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (
Arab News
03-06-2025
- General
- Arab News
Philippines sees 500% increase in HIV cases among young people
MANILA: The number of young Filipinos infected with HIV has increased by 500 percent, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said on Tuesday, as he called for a national public health emergency to be declared. The Philippines has been facing the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the Western Pacific region due to the continuous rise in infections. Health officials have been recording around 56 new cases daily since the beginning of April, a total of 5,101. The latest figure is approximately 50 percent higher than during the same period last year. 'We've seen a 500 percent increase in HIV cases among those aged 15 to 25. In fact, the youngest person diagnosed was just 12 years old, in the province of Palawan,' Herbosa said in a video statement. 'Based on our data, we now have the highest number of new cases in the Western Pacific region. What's frightening is the high number of new cases among our youth.' The Philippines saw a 543 percent increase in new infections between 2010 and 2023, according to the UNAIDS global report released in November. There are currently 148,831 active HIV cases in the country, which has a population of 117 million. While the spread of HIV has slowed drastically in many parts of the world since the epidemic's peak in 1995, infections have been rising steeply for over a decade in the Philippines. Officials recorded 48 daily cases on average last year, compared to 21 in 2014. The government has warned that if the current trend continues, the number of people living with HIV could more than double. 'If we don't stop the increase in HIV cases, we could reach over 400,000 people living with HIV … It would be better to declare a public health emergency or national emergency for HIV, so that the entire society and government can work together in this campaign to reduce new cases,' said Herbosa. Though screening for the virus and treatment is free in state-run clinics, stigma surrounding HIV continues to be a major barrier for many Filipinos. Only 55 percent of those living with the virus in the Philippines have been diagnosed, according to government data, while only 66 percent of those are on lifesaving antiretroviral therapy. 'Some people are afraid to get tested,' Herbosa said. 'We now also have HIV self-test kits in the Philippines, and I hope these self-test kits are used, especially to address the stigma.'
