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Through this page, I aim to share the breathtaking wonders of the Philippines, as seen through the lenses of talented explorers. From pristine beaches to vibrant cityscapes, from lush mountains to rich cultural h

eritage, I'll be curating and showcasing the best of what this beautiful archipelago has to offer. Join me on this visual journey as we uncover hidden gems, discover unique destinations, and immerse ourselves in the richness of Filipino culture. Let's celebrate the Philippines' natural beauty together and get inspired to plan your own unforgettable adventures. So sit back, relax, and let the beauty of the Philippines transport you to a world of wonder and enchantment. Don't forget to hit that follow button to stay connected and be a part of this amazing exploration!

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14/09/2025

LOOK | 🇯🇵JAPAN, 🇵🇭PHILIPPINES, AND 🇺🇸US NAVIES HOLD MULTILATERAL MARITIME COOPERATIVE ACTIVITY IN SOUTH CHINA SEA

On September 13, 2025, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JS OSUMI LST-4001), the Philippine Navy, and the US Navy conducted a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the South China Sea.

The exercise reflects the three nations’ shared commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), emphasizing the importance of regional stability and maritime security under international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Japan, the Philippines, and the United States reaffirmed their strong partnership and vowed to continue working closely together to uphold peace, prosperity, and security in the region. 🤝

This story originally appeared from the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

14/09/2025

SUBIC IS SET TO BECOME THE NEXT FRONTIER FOR WARSHIPS AMID SOURING TIES BETWEEN PH AND CHINA

A shipyard in Subic is being positioned as the next powerhouse for warship building amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. The United States and the Philippines are reviving the storied Subic Bay shipyard to serve as a major hub for naval ventures and as a new source of economic growth for the Philippines.

The initiative gained momentum after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. inaugurated the HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Philippines, Inc. in Subic. “For decades, even centuries, the Philippines has given the world our finest seafarers. It is only fitting that we also supply the world with excellent vessels to sail on,” Marcos said during the steel-cutting of the first vessel under new management.

Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez also revealed that Subic could soon be a site for American warship production. “(The US) wants to increase their shipbuilding industry. It’s been sort of on hold for many years, decades, and now they are reviving it. Ours is already operating right now. Economic strength is the foundation of strategic strength. When US companies invest here, it’s not just about returns on capital. It’s about returns on alliance,” he said.

The Subic shipyard, formerly Hanjin Subic, once placed the Philippines among the top five shipbuilders in the world, producing up to two million gross tons of ships annually before Hyundai Heavy Industries went bankrupt in 2019. Its revival now promises a capacity of 2.5 million deadweight tons, enough to handle as many as eight massive tankers.

Experts believe Subic’s resurgence is a crucial step in strengthening the country’s defense and maritime economy. “Reviving Subic as a prime defense hub is a big welcome to the nation’s plan to revitalize a national defense industry,” said Chester Cabalza of the International Development and Security Cooperation.

As China continues to assert its sweeping claims over the South China Sea, analysts say Subic’s strategic location—near Scarborough Shoal—may also signal Manila’s determination to bolster defense and deter potential threats.

This story originally appeared on EsquiremagPh. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

14/09/2025

LOOK: MANILA'S A MANO RISES TO THE WORLD'S TOP 50

A Mano, a proudly homegrown Italian restaurant in Manila, has earned global recognition after ranking 49th in the world at the 2025 edition of the 50 Top Pizza Awards—a leap from its 70th place finish the year before.

The recognition adds to A Mano’s growing list of accolades. Earlier this year, it placed 7th in the 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific list, up from 12th in 2024, and previously bagged the Pastificio di Martino Award for having the best pasta program in the world. “To perfection,” is how 50 Top Pizza co-director Albert Sapere described the winners of that prize.

Founded in 2019 by Amado Forés, A Mano has built its reputation on fresh, faithful Italian cooking crafted by Filipino hands. “It’s an immense honor for us to be part of 50 Top Pizza. Rising from the 70th to the 49th spot is a feat I attribute to our hardworking team — expertly made by Filipino hands, consistently producing world-class quality — and it motivates us to keep innovating while staying true to serving fresh and faithful Italian,” Forés said.

The 50 Top Pizza guide is regarded as the most influential ranking in the world of pizza, judged by food critics and industry professionals. Forés also expressed gratitude to 50 Top Pizza and to loyal guests who have supported A Mano’s mission to deliver authentic Italian flavors using the finest ingredients.

This story originally appeared on Manila Bulletin Lifestyle. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

13/09/2025

MEET THE FILIPINO RESTAURANT MANAGER AT MING DYNASTY DUBAI MALL WHO WENT VIRAL OVER P2.1 MILLION SALARY

Meet Leon Oraiz, the Filipino restaurant manager at Dubai Mall who went viral after an ambush interview where he mentioned his “2.1 million salary.”

“Yes, I’m the guy with the 2.1 million salary,” Leon said with a laugh. “But, let me clarify—it’s 2.1 million pesos annually. People thought I was bragging or lying. It was an ambush interview and I had no chance to explain. It was my first time being interviewed, so I really had no idea it would blow up like that!”

While the misunderstanding brought bashing online, it also boosted Ming Dynasty’s popularity. “Our restaurant saw more guests coming in, and some even wanted to have their photo taken with me,” Leon shared.

But behind the viral moment is Leon’s inspiring journey of struggles, second chances, and relentless hard work. “I was out of work for at least six months. My family in the Philippines had to sell the jewelry I gave them just to send me money here,” he recalled. Thanks to a friend’s introduction, he was chosen to help launch Ming Dynasty—a now-iconic restaurant in Dubai Mall offering 188 dishes and its first karaoke room.

“I’m proud to be a Filipino and OFW in Dubai. I am the first Filipino restaurant manager of this group of companies, and that makes me even prouder,” he said.

From Cebu to Dubai Mall, Leon’s story proves that with persistence and passion, opportunities will open. As he puts it: “Don’t give up. Be strong. Whatever challenges come your way, you can handle it.”

This story originally appeared on Expat Media. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

13/09/2025

LOOK: EJ OBIENA MISSES POLE VAULT FINALS IN 2025 WORLD ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS

Filipino Olympian and pole vaulter EJ Obiena fell short of reaching the finals at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

Obiena cleared 5.55 meters to finish in joint 18th place with Matej Ščerba of Czechia and Oleksandr Onufriyev of Ukraine. He had skipped the opening 5.40 meters and cleared 5.55 on his first attempt but failed at 5.70 twice. Choosing to pass on his last attempt at that height, he went for 5.75 but could not clear it, ending his campaign with three consecutive failed jumps.

Only athletes who managed 5.80 meters or ranked in the top 12 advanced to the finals. Among them were world record holder Mondo Duplantis of Sweden, Greece’s Emmanouil Karalis, American Sam Kendricks, and Norway’s Sondre Guttormsen.

Obiena, who previously won bronze in 2022 and silver in 2023 at the World Championships, also recently bagged a bronze at the World Athletics Continental Tour.

Despite the early exit, the Olympian is set to return to the Philippines soon to spearhead the Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge on September 21.

This story originally appeared on GMA Integrated News. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

13/09/2025

WE'RE STILL PROUD OF YOU, EJ! 🇵🇭

EJ Obiena bowed out early at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo after clearing 5.55m, finishing 17th overall and missing the finals by five spots. Still, the Filipino Olympian remains a source of national pride. 💪🇵🇭

13/09/2025

LOOK: FIRST SKULL OF EXTINCT ELEPHANT RELATIVE STEGODON FOUND IN CAGAYAN

A groundbreaking discovery was made in Solana, Cagayan—the first-ever skull of a Stegodon, an extinct relative of modern elephants. Paleontologists from the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) and the University of Wollongong in Australia believe the fossil belonged to a “teenage” Stegodon, likely taller than an average Filipino.

"Its features match those of Stegodon from Indonesian islands like Sangihe, Sulawesi, and Flores. This means that these ancient elephants were strong swimmers, able to cross open seas and island-hop, as there were no land bridges connecting these islands," explained Meyrick Tablizo of UPD-CS National Institute of Geological Sciences.

According to experts, large animal fossils are much rarer compared to small ones.
"Skulls are large, hollow, and easily broken before or during fossilization, so they almost never make it through thousands to millions of years intact. That's why most Stegodon fossils from the Philippines are just isolated teeth or tusk fragments, with occasional bone fragments," Tablizo added.

The study suggests that Luzon may have hosted at least three different forms of Stegodon: a large-bodied type, a smaller "dwarfed" type, and the newly identified intermediate form.

Tablizo also urged the public to help protect these scientific treasures:

"If someone happens to encounter a fossil, the best step is to contact the Nannoworks Laboratory, the Paleontological Society of the Philippines, or the National Museum of the Philippines. This ensures the find is properly studied and preserved, and it might even become a key piece in understanding our natural history."

This story originally appeared on the GMA Integrated News page. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

Read full story in the comments.

12/09/2025

UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES, UK, AND NORWAY SCIENTISTS DISCOVER BIRD POOP’S ROLE IN FOREST REGENERATION

An international team of scientists led by Dr. Jelaine Gan of the University of the Philippines Diliman Institute of Biology, together with researchers from Newcastle University, University of St Andrews in the UK, and the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, has confirmed that bird droppings play a vital role in regenerating forests.

Their study focused on Assisted Natural Regeneration (ANR), an approach that accelerates forest recovery by working with nature’s own processes. The idea is simple yet effective: install bird perches in degraded areas to attract fruit-eating birds. As the birds rest, they disperse seeds through their droppings—planting the foundation for future forests.

After reviewing 396 scientific studies worldwide, the team found that natural, artificial, and semi-natural perches all significantly increased seed dispersal compared to areas without perches. Crucially, only natural perches (such as shrubs, scattered trees, and tree islands) were proven to boost both the number of seedlings and their species diversity, making them essential to healthy forest recovery.

The researchers recommend preserving natural perches in farmlands and agricultural fields, and in areas lacking these, the use of artificial or semi-natural perches combined with soil treatments and weeding to improve seedling growth.

The findings highlight how working with birds and natural processes offers a sustainable, cost-effective way to restore degraded forests and strengthen biodiversity.

This story originally appeared on the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Science news page. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

Read full story in the comments.

12/09/2025

“THIS ONE IS FOR YOU PHILIPPINES” 🇵🇭

LOOK: DONNALYN WINS BEST CONTENT CREATOR AT SEPTIMIUS AWARDS

Filipina content creator Donnalyn brought pride to the Philippines after being named Best Content Creator at the prestigious 2025 Septimius Awards in Europe.

The award-winning vlogger shared her joy in a short acceptance video posted on Facebook:
“This one is for you, Philippines. Yesterday I told all of you I was a nominee in a prestigious awarding ceremony in Europe.. now we’ll be flying home recognized as one of the best in the world at what we do, gracias y gloria a Dios! I know this is You!”

Beyond the recognition, Donnalyn vowed to continue her advocacy work, particularly environmental efforts:

“I’m coming home to plant more trees.. over a thouuuusand more!! And we need volunteers! Please message Influence Us. We’re a foundation born five years ago because of floods. We plant trees, provide opportunities, shelter, services, medical, education and so many more prevention initiatives I can’t wait to share to all of you. I need more leaders, more people who truly care. We need to act now! Please.”

She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to her supporters and to the award-giving body:

“Thank you and thank you everyone for supporting me. Don’t let the world change your heart! Let your heart change the world!! Las acciones hablan más que las palabras, así que, mi Señor y Dios, espero que sepas cuánto te amo!!”

Notably, Donnalyn was also recognized as Best Dressed in last year’s edition of the Septimius Awards, which annually honors outstanding films and talents across the globe.

This story originally appeared on the Daily Tribune news page. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

Read full story in the comments.

12/09/2025

OBIENA, BROWN CHASE GLORY IN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Filipino athletes EJ Obiena and Robyn Brown are set to raise the Philippine flag at the 2025 World Athletics Championships happening at the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo starting Saturday, Sept. 13.

Obiena, the world’s No. 7 pole vaulter, enters his fourth straight world championship appearance. The 29-year-old Tondo native previously bagged a bronze in 2022 (Eugene, Oregon) and a silver in 2023 (Budapest) with his personal-best 6-meter clearance. He now aims for his third straight podium finish, competing in Group B alongside reigning champion Mondo Duplantis of Sweden, world No. 3 Sam Kendricks of the USA, and 15 other elite vaulters.

“Obiena is determined to gain momentum before returning to the Philippines for the inaugural Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge in Makati City on Sept. 21.” He most recently claimed bronze at the World Athletics Continental Tour in Beijing, China, clearing 5.65 meters.

Meanwhile, Robyn Brown, the 2023 Asian Athletics gold medalist, will compete in her second World Championships appearance in the women’s 400m hurdles, gunning for a spot on the podium when her event begins on Monday, Sept. 15.

The Philippines’ top track and field athletes are once again poised to compete against the world’s best and bring pride to the nation.

This story originally appeared on the Manila Bulletin Sports page. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

Read full story in the comments.

12/09/2025

LOOK: PAPAYA GOES VIRAL AFTER SEEDS STARTED SPROUTING INSIDE THE FRUIT

A backyard-harvested papaya from San Pablo City, Laguna has gone viral after its seeds were discovered sprouting while still inside the fruit. The unusual phenomenon, known as vivipary, amazed netizens after the story was shared on GMA Integrated News.

Uploader Mary Grace Buscato shared the surprising find:

“Hinog na po siya, tapos po nung i-open po namin siya, nagulat po kami kasi meron siyang mga stem-stem. Na-amaze kami gawa nang first encounter namin 'yun.”

According to experts, vivipary is not common but can occur due to several factors—such as overripeness, improper storage, climate and humidity, or even genetics. Rene Vendiola, field guide from Silliman University, explained:

“Sa mga hybrid kadalasan doon nangyayari 'yung ganyan nga. Mauna mag-mature ang seeds atsaka huli 'yung pagkahinog ng pulp.”

Despite its unusual appearance, fruits like this are still safe to eat as long as they’re not spoiled, rotting, or moldy. Experts advise removing the sprouted seeds before consumption. Interestingly, the seeds can still be planted in soil, offering a chance to grow new papaya trees.

This viral papaya shows how fascinating nature can be, reminding us that even ordinary fruits can sometimes surprise us with extraordinary traits.

This story originally appeared on the GMA Integrated News page. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

Read full story in the comments.

12/09/2025

HORNBILLS SPOTTED IN SAMAL; FACE THREAT FROM HUNTING, DEFORESTATION

A pair of Mindanao wrinkled hornbills, locally called “Kalaw”, was recently spotted perched on a tree in Barangay Tagpopongan, Samal Island, Davao del Norte. The sighting, captured on September 6, 2025, by photography enthusiast and birder Lea Walker, was described as a blessing for her family.

“Blessing for us na they are here, to find out na naa ra diay dinhi sa among yuta maka-happy kaayo,” Walker said. Her nephew first recorded a hornbill sighting on the island back in 2022, inspiring the family to preserve the memory with a framed photo.

Environmental experts stressed the importance of protecting the vulnerable species. According to Engr. John Eric Lador, environmental management specialist of CENRO-IGACOS:

“Sagad ginakaon sa kalaw is mga prutas pero mokaon sab ni og insekto ug giklasipika nga vulnerable species. Mabuhi lang ang mga kalaw kung magpabilin nga buhi ug lig-on ang mga watershed ug lasang tungod kini ang nagahatag kanila og pagkaon ug pinuy-anan.”

However, threats remain as hunting and deforestation continue to endanger the hornbills’ survival. Councilman Jack Daniel Juntilla urged residents to stop hunting and report violators:

“Ato lang undangon ang pagpangayam ug pagpanguha og mga kahayupan sa kalasangan kung ato man gud ning buhaton posible kining mawala na sila dili na makita sa sunod nga henerasyon, kung naay makakita (mangayam) isumbong lang sa barangay.”

Lador further emphasized:

“Kinahanglan masabtan sa kumunidad ang pagpanalipod sa mga kalaw dili lamang nagluwas sa usa ka species apan nagapadayon usab sa himsog nga watershed.”

Since 2022, Walker has been planting native trees in their area to provide nesting and resting sites for wildlife. She shared:

“Mawala na ang ubang kahoy dira but we have a forest here nga amone gi-preserve. I am hoping nga ang atong wildlife mupuyo sila ba, they will come.”

This rare sighting highlights both the beauty and fragility of Samal Island’s wildlife, underscoring the urgent call to protect forests and species before they disappear for future generations.

This story originally appeared on the GMA Regional TV news page. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.

Read full story in the comments.

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