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'Biyahe ni Drew:' How to spend a weekend in Biliran for under P2500 | NewsTV | GMA News Online
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NewsTV » Biyahe ni Drew
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'Biyahe ni Drew:' How to spend a
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Philippines
When we think of beaches, we tend to think of famous and expensive destinations like Boracay and
Palawan. But if you think about it, we’ve got over 7,000 islands in the Philippines—chances are, you
can find a great beach for a fraction of the cost.
‘AHA!’ fans welcome summer with Drew
Arellano
In Biliran, Drew found just that: a weekend getaway for under P2,500!
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Quick facts
Biliran is surrounded by water and fishing is a main source of livelihood there. During the Spanish
era, Biliran was known as Isla de Panamao—the world ‘panamao’ meaning ‘fishing net.’ Later, it
took its name from the word ‘bilir,’ meaning ‘the side of a bangka.’ (Source: National Statistical
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2013'
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Coordination Board)
Biliran has two main islands: Biliran Island and Maripipi Island.
A word of warning: There’s no WiFi or mobile signal in many parts of Biliran. If you’re the type that
needs to be plugged in 24/7, this is not for you.
How to get there
Tacloban, Leyte is the gateway to Biliran. A one-hour flight from Manila to Tacloban costs around
P700 if you’re flying with a budget airline—add taxes, and your bill goes up to P2000 for a round
trip. If you’re trying to save, take a Manila-Tacloban RORO for P900-1200.
From Tacloban, it’s a two-hour land trip to Biliran. Van service costs P140 per head. Traveling in a
group? They have a discounted rate of P1,500 for 12 people.
How to get around
It’s simple in Biliran. You’ve got the sikad (what locals call a pedicab), jeepney, multicab and
tricycle. Expect to spend no more than P50, depending on where you’re going.
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Where to stay
You know what’s great about hotels in Biliran? They aren’t prices at expensive “tourist” rates—one
local called the prices in Biliran, which range from P300 to 1200 per night, “the friendly rate.”
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Agta Beach Resort | Talahid, Almeria
Rates start at P800/night, good for two and inclusive of breakfast.
Each room has its own A/C, refrigerator, private bathroom and TV—not to mention easy access to a
beach. While you’re there, try the restaurant’s lechon manok. Unlike the usual open-air, rotisseriestyle preparation, theirs is baked inside a pugon (traditional wood-fired oven).
Biliran Garden Resort | Villa Cecilia Sitio, Brgy. Calumpang, Naval
Rates start at P1200/night, good for four people. Each room has its own A/C, refrigerator, private
bathroom and TV.
Marvin’s Seaside Inn | Brgy. Atipolo, Naval
Rates start at P1200/night, good for four people. Each room has its own A/C refrigerator, private
bathroom and TV. The inn has a restaurant; meals range from P80 to P200.
What to do
Scuba diving
A twenty-minute, P500 boat ride from the Agta Beach Resort (see ‘Where to stay’ section below) is
Dalutan Island and its white sand beach. Dive gear rental costs P600.
Talk of the web
“Kitang-kita mo na punong-puno ng corals dito, at siyempre, punong-puno rin ng mga iba’t ibang
klaseng isda,” said Drew.
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