Social Items


Creating an account on the newly relaunched Friendster is quite different from the old version or other social media platforms. Because the app focuses on "real-world connections," the signup process is intentionally restricted.

Currently, Friendster is exclusive to Apple users. You will need:



  • An iPhone or iPad.
  • iOS 16.0 or later.

The official Friendster app downloaded from the Apple App Store.


Create An Account

Once you have the app:

  • Open the app and follow the prompts to sign in (likely using your Apple ID or a verified email).

  • Enable Permissions: You must enable Bluetooth and Local Network access in your iOS Settings for the app. This is required for the phone-to-phone tapping feature to work.  

  • Find a Friend: To actually "activate" your social experience, find a friend who also has the app and tap your iPhones together.




Important Technical Tips


No Android Yet: If you are an Android user, there is currently no way to create an account as the app hasn't been released for that platform.

Troubleshooting: If the phone-tapping doesn't work, ensure both phones have their screens on and are unlocked. Double-check that Location Services and Bluetooth are toggled on.

Privacy: Since they don't sell data or use algorithms, you won't be asked to fill out long surveys about your interests during signup.




It’s a very "analog" way to join a digital platform—you'll likely need to head to a place like Plaza Rizal or a local cafe to find someone to "tap" into the network with!

FRIENDSTER IS BACK: Here's How to Create an Account


Masasa Beach in Tingloy, Batangas, is one of the most accessible "off-the-grid" tropical escapes near Manila. Known for its clear turquoise waters, unique rock formations, and white (though slightly pebbly) sand, it remains a favorite for DIY travelers looking for a budget-friendly beach fix.



Where is Masasa Beach Located?

Masasa Beach is located on the southern coast of Tingloy, the only island municipality in Batangas. It is tucked away behind rice fields and hills, giving it a peaceful, rustic vibe compared to the more commercialized beaches in neighboring Mabini or Nasugbu.



When to Visit


Best Time: November to May (Dry Season). This is when the seas are calmest and the water is clearest for snorkeling.

Peak Season: Summer months (March to May) and long weekends. Expect crowds during these times.

Off-Peak: June to October (Rainy Season). Boat trips are often cancelled during typhoons, so always check the weather before heading to the port.



Things to Do (Activity Rates)

While the beach itself is the main draw, there are several activities to keep you busy.

  • Snorkeling / Turtle Watching - ₱200 / person
    Includes life vest and mask. You can often see sea turtles!

  • Island Hopping - ₱1,500 – ₱2,500
    Typically visits Sombrero Island and Sepoc Point.

  • Sombrero Island Fee - ₱200 / person
    This is an additional entrance fee paid at the island.

  • Crystal Kayak - ₱150 – ₱200
    For 30 minutes; great for photos.

  • Hiking Mag-Asawang Bato - ₱100 – ₱150
    A guide fee for a short trek with a panoramic view of the island.

  • Entrance Fee - FREE
    There is currently no entrance fee for the beach itself.





Where to Stay (Accommodation Rates)

Tingloy is an eco-tourism zone, so you won’t find high-end luxury resorts here. Instead, the island is famous for its transient houses and homestays.

  • Fan Rooms / Transients: ₱400 – ₱600 per head (Group rates are often cheaper).

  • Air-conditioned Rooms: ₱700 – ₱1,000 per head (Usually requires a minimum of 4–6 people).

  • Private Houses/Rentals: ₱3,500 – ₱6,000 per night (Good for large groups of 10–15 pax).

  • Camping: Tents are generally discouraged for overnight stays on the beach due to local ordinances, but some transients allow camping in their private yards for ₱200–₱300.


Pro-Tip: Most homestays allow you to use their kitchen for free or a small fee (₱100 for gas). It’s best to buy fresh seafood at the Anilao/Talaga Port or the Tingloy Public Market and cook your own meals.




How to Get There

Getting to Masasa Beach requires a combination of land and sea travel.


Step 1: Manila to Batangas Grand Terminal
Take a bus (JAM Liner, DLTB, or ALPS) from Buendia, Cubao, or Alabang bound for Batangas Grand Terminal.

  • Fare: ₱250 – ₱280
  • Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours.


Step 2: Grand Terminal to Port
Take a jeepney bound for Anilao Port or Talaga Port.

  • Fare: ₱50 – ₱70
  • Travel Time: 45 minutes.

Note: Use Anilao Port during summer/dry season; Talaga Port is sometimes used during Habagat (monsoon) season.


Step 3: Port to Tingloy (Ferry)
Register and pay the Environmental Fee (₱100) at the port before boarding a public boat to Tingloy Port.

  • Fare: ₱100 – ₱150
  • Travel Time: 45 to 60 minutes.

Schedule: Boats usually run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (earlier on weekends).


Step 4: Tingloy Port to Masasa Beach
Once you arrive at the island, take a tricycle to your transient house or directly to the beach path.

  • Fare: ₱60 – ₱120 per tricycle (can fit 3–4 people).
  • Travel Time: 10 to 15 minutes, followed by a short 5-minute walk through the rice fields.



ALSO IN BATANGAS



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

MASASA BEACH: Guide to Famous Beach in Tingloy, Batangas


Travelers heading between Baguio City and Metro Manila will need to adjust their travel budgets following a newly implemented provisional fare increase for provincial buses.



Effective March 14, 2026, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has authorized a rate hike across various bus classifications to address rising operational costs. The order, officially signed on March 13, introduces a ₱0.35 per kilometer increase for air-conditioned provincial units.


New Rates for Baguio–Manila Routes

Under the updated matrix, the standard rate for regular air-conditioned provincial buses now stands at ₱2.45 per kilometer. For the approximately 300 km trip between Baguio and Cubao, the base fare has shifted to roughly ₱735, with most operators rounding the final price to ₱740.




Major carriers, including Victory Liner, have updated their ticketing systems to reflect these changes. Commuters can expect the following estimated rates for the Baguio–Cubao route:

  • Via Gerona, Tarlac: ₱740

  • Via TPLEX Urdaneta: ₱750

  • Deluxe (via TPLEX Pozorrubio): ₱871

  • First Class Express (Non-stop): ₱1,136

  • Royal Class Express (Non-stop): ₱1,646

Fares for trips to Pasay are slightly higher, ranging from ₱756 for standard trips to ₱1,682 for Royal Class services.



Breakdown of Fare Adjustments

The LTFRB’s decision impacts various bus tiers with specific incremental increases:

  • (Non-AC) +₱1.00 base fare; +₱0.30 per succeeding km

  • Regular Air-Con / Super Deluxe / Deluxe +₱0.35 per kilometer

  • Luxury Buses +₱0.45 per kilometer



Discounts and Reminders

Despite the hike, the mandatory 20% discount remains in effect for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). For a standard ₱740 trip to Cubao, discounted passengers will pay approximately ₱588.

The LTFRB reminds the public that fares may vary slightly depending on the specific route taken (such as use of the TPLEX) and the level of onboard amenities. Passengers are encouraged to check with their respective bus terminals for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing before heading out.


THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO

If you plan to visit Baguio City, here are top activities you shouldn't miss:


WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO

Here are some of the many top hotels with Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism in Baguio:

You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. I also wrote Top10 hotels in Baguio on a separate blog.

For directions and bus schedules, check out my Manila to Baguio guide. For those who are driving to Baguio, you may check the fastest way to Baguio. Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.

Bus Fare Hike: Baguio–Cubao Now ₱700+ One-Way


If you are looking for the perfect family staycation in the heart of Pasay, you know that the struggle to find "the one" is real. You want convenience, great food, and enough activities to keep the kids from climbing the walls.

Last October 2025, my family and I decided to skip the usual neighborhood trick-or-treating for something a bit more "magical." We headed to Belmont Hotel Manila to celebrate their highly anticipated Halloween event: Bailey and the Chocolate Factory.

Here is my full, personal review of our weekend stay, the "Golden Ticket" experience, and why this hotel remains a top choice for travelers and locals alike.



About Belmont Hotel Manila

Before we dive into the candy-coated details, let’s talk about the hotel itself. Belmont Hotel Manila is a premier 4-star destination that has built a solid reputation for "sophisticated staying." Since its opening in 2015, it has become a cornerstone of Newport World Resorts (formerly Resorts World Manila).


Location

The hotel is strategically located right across from NAIA Terminal 3. For travelers, this is a godsend. You can actually access the hotel via Runway Manila, the air-conditioned pedestrian link bridge that connects the airport directly to Newport City.

If you’re driving, like we did, it’s easily accessible via the NAIAX (NAIA Expressway). The hotel offers complimentary parking for staying guests, which is a massive perk in an area where parking slots are usually gold dust.

RELATED GUIDE: Best Hotels Near NAIA Terminal 3 (Room Rates and Online Booking Guide)


Day 1: Checking In and Rooftop Relaxation

We decided to maximize the weekend by checking in on a Saturday, one day before the big Halloween event. The check-in process was smooth, and the lobby already had that buzz of excitement for the upcoming festivities.


Rooftop Swimming with a View

The first order of business? The pool. Located on the rooftop, Belmont’s swimming area offers a stunning panoramic view of the airport runways and the Metro Manila skyline. It’s the perfect spot to watch planes take off while you soak.


Amenities: They provide fresh, clean towels at the pool deck.

Pro-Tip for Parents: The hotel is very strict about hygiene (which I appreciate!). Swimming diapers are required for toddlers. Make sure to pack some, or you might have a very disappointed little one!


A Taste of Filipino Tradition

After our swim, we headed back down to the lobby. One thing I loved was the local touch—they had stalls set up right in front of the entrance serving Bibingka and Puto Bumbong. Nothing beats the smell of charcoal-fired rice cakes in the afternoon! It was the perfect pre-dinner snack.



For dinner, we took a short walk over to Newport Mall. The options there are endless, but we settled on Bulgogi Brothers. There’s just something about a hot Korean grill that feels like the ultimate Saturday night treat.




Day 2: The Bailey and the Chocolate Factory Event

Sunday morning started with a heavy breakfast at Cafe Belmont. The spread had a great variety—from Filipino breakfast staples like longganisa and garlic rice to an omelet station and fresh pastries. We made sure to fuel up because we knew the "Chocolate Factory" was waiting.


The Room Package: Is it Worth It?

We availed of the Special Halloween Room Package for PHP 7,900. Looking back, it was a steal. Here’s what we got:

  • Overnight Stay in a comfortable, modern room.
  • Breakfast for Two.
  • Two Golden Tickets to the Bailey and the Chocolate Factory event.
  • A Limited Edition Bailey Bear (a high-quality plushie that my kids still sleep with).
  • Access to facilities and parking.


A Magical Family Day

The event was inspired by the classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Belmont really went all out. The theme was "Bailey and the Chocolate Factory," featuring the hotel's adorable mascot, Bailey Bear.


For an entrance fee of PHP 1,400 per person (kids 2 and below were free), the value was incredible. The ballroom was transformed into a candy wonderland. We enjoyed:

  • Trick or Treat: Multiple stations where the kids could fill their bags.

  • Games & Entertainment: Fun activities that kept the energy high.

  • Face Painting & Arts: The artists were talented and very patient with the kids.

  • Lunch Buffet: A kid-friendly (and parent-approved) spread that was actually delicious.

  • Best in Costume Contest: Seeing all the creative costumes was a highlight!




Final Thoughts

Our overall experience at Belmont Hotel Manila was fantastic. Often, "event" hotels can feel cramped or disorganized, but Belmont managed the crowd perfectly.

The transition from our Saturday relaxation to the Sunday "sugar rush" was seamless. Whether you are looking for a place to stay before a flight or a dedicated family staycation spot in Manila, I highly recommend keeping an eye on their seasonal packages.


Quick Summary for Travelers


Vibe: Modern, professional, but family-friendly.

Best For: Families, transit travelers, and staycationers.

Must Try: The rooftop pool and the breakfast at Cafe Belmont.

Nearby Attractions: Newport Mall, Newport Performing Arts Theater, and St. Therese of the Child Jesus Shrine.


Belmont Hotel Manila Contact Details

Telephone Number: +63 (2) 318-8888
Email: reservations.manila@thebelmonthotels.com
Instagram & Twitter: @BelmontHotelManila


Read Next


Our Halloween Weekend at Belmont Hotel Manila (Review and Experience)


Fortune Island is one of the most recognizable destinations in Batangas, famously known for the Acropolis of Athens-inspired ruins that sit atop its limestone cliffs. Once an exclusive luxury resort in the 1990s, the island was eventually abandoned due to the lack of a fresh water source and the high cost of maintenance. Today, it stands as a hauntingly beautiful "ruin" that offers a raw, off-the-grid experience for travelers who don't mind a bit of grit.



Where is Fortune Island Located?

Fortune Island is located about 14 kilometers off the coast of Nasugbu, Batangas. It is situated along the Verde Island Passage, which is known for its deep blue waters and strong currents.


When to Visit


Best Time: December to May (Dry Season). This is the window when the waves are most manageable.

Warning: Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (July to September). The boat ride can be notoriously rough and "splashy," often leading to cancellations for safety.

Pro-Tip: Aim for a weekday trip. On weekends, the iconic pillars can get crowded with people waiting in line for photos.

RELATED GUIDE: 12 Best Places to Visit in Batangas (Tourist Spots and Activities)


Things to Do (Activity Rates)

The island is rugged and has no electricity or running water, so activities are focused on nature and photography.

  • The Acropolis Photo Op - Included in Entry
    The iconic Grecian pillars. Best at sunrise or sunset.

  • Cliff Diving - FREE
    Located at the back of the island; heights vary from 5ft to 30ft.

  • Snorkeling - FREE
    Bring your own gear. The area near the shipwreck is great for fish.

  • Shipwreck Diving - Varies
    For licensed divers, there is a Dutch freighter wreck nearby.

  • Hiking to the Lighthouse - FREE
    A short, overgrown trek to the island’s highest point.

  • Tent Pitching Fee - ₱100 – ₱200
    Only applicable if you bring your own tent for day/overnight use.


OTHER MUST-SEE ISLANDS IN THE PHILIPPINES

If you love to travel to the Philippines, here are the beautiful islands to visit on your next trip:




Rates & Fees (2026 Updates)

Since there are no hotels on the island, you must register at a mainland resort (usually Fortune Island Resort in Brgy. Wawa) before heading out.

Entrance Fee (Day Trip): ₱350 per person

Entrance Fee (Overnight): ₱500 per person

Boat Rental (Day Trip): ₱4,000 – ₱4,500 (Good for 5–10 pax)

Boat Rental (Overnight): ₱4,500 – ₱6,000 (Good for 5–10 pax)

Tent Rental: ₱500 per tent (if you don't have your own)


How to Get There


Step 1: Manila to Nasugbu
Take a bus (DLTB or BSC) from Buendia, Pasay, or Cubao bound for Nasugbu.

Fare: ₱230 – ₱280

Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours.

Drop-off: Nasugbu Town Proper (near Jollibee/Public Market).


Step 2: Town Proper to Brgy. Wawa
Hire a tricycle to take you to Fortune Island Resort or your chosen boat coordinator in Brgy. Wawa.

Fare: ₱50 – ₱100 per trike.


Step 3: Mainland to Fortune Island
Board your chartered boat. The ride takes about 1 hour to 1.5 hours depending on sea conditions.

Note: Prepare to get wet! The waves in this area are known to be choppy, so place all electronics in dry bags.



Essential Survival Tips


Bring ALL your water: There is no fresh water on the island for drinking or even for rinsing off after a swim.

Food & Trash: There are no food stalls. Bring your own meals and, most importantly, pack your trash back to the mainland.

Sun Protection: The island has very little shade. The heat reflecting off the white ruins can be intense, so bring a hat and reef-safe sunblock.

Bathroom Situation: Facilities on the island are very basic (pit latrines or "saltwater flush" toilets). Manage your expectations!


WHAT TO BRING FOR BATANGAS

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

ALSO IN BATANGAS



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

FORTUNE ISLAND: A Piece of Greece in Nasugbu, Batangas


If you’re looking for a beach that balances the beauty of a tropical paradise with the raw, adventurous feel of camping, Manuel Uy Beach Resort in Calatagan is the go-to spot. Unlike the neighboring high-end resorts, Manuel Uy focuses on a minimalist "back-to-basics" experience where the main attractions are the golden sunsets and the vast, shallow cream-sand shores.



Where is Manuel Uy Beach Located?

Manuel Uy Beach is situated in Brgy. Santa Ana, Calatagan, Batangas. It sits on the western tip of the peninsula, providing a front-row seat to some of the most stunning sunsets in Luzon.

Manuel Uy Beach Resort


When to Visit


Best Time: Late October to May (Dry Season). The water is calm and the skies are clear, making it perfect for camping.

Avoid: Peak rainy season (July to September), as the resort is mostly open-air with very little solid shelter during heavy downpours.

RELATED GUIDE: 12 Best Places to Visit in Batangas (Tourist Spots and Activities)



WHAT TO BRING FOR BATANGAS

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

Things to Do (Activity Rates)

The resort is a haven for those who love the outdoors. Whether you’re staying for a day or overnight, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the coast.

  • Island Hopping - ₱1,000 – ₱1,500
    Good for 5 pax. Usually visits the Starfish Island and Sandbar.

  • Snorkeling - ₱50 (Gear rental)
    Best spots are reached via the island hopping boat.

  • Swimming - FREE
    The shore is incredibly shallow for hundreds of meters—perfect for kids.

  • Grilling - FREE
    Use of the common grilling stations is free; bring your own charcoal.

  • Cape Santiago Lighthouse - ₱50 (Entrance)
    A 10-minute tricycle ride away. A must-visit historic Spanish-era lighthouse.

 Camping at Manuel Uy Beach Resort

Where to Stay (Camping Rates)

Manuel Uy is strictly a camping-only resort. There are no air-conditioned rooms or private cottages, which is part of its charm. You can either bring your own gear or rent from them.



Entrance Fees


Day Tour: ₱250 (Adult) | ₱178 (Senior/PWD)

Overnight: ₱350 (Adult) | ₱250 (Senior/PWD)

Note: Children 6 years old and below are FREE.


Campsite Fees (If bringing your own tent)


1–4 Pax: ₱200 – ₱250

5–10 Pax: ₱300 – ₱350


Rentals


Tent Rental: ₱500 (Good for 3–4 pax).

Tables & Chairs: ₱250 per set.



How to Get There


Step 1: Manila to Calatagan
Take a bus (DLTB or BSC) or a van from LRT Buendia, Pasay, or Metropoint Mall (Taft) bound for Calatagan.

Fare: ₱180 – ₱230

Travel Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours.


Step 2: Calatagan Town Proper to Resort
Alight at the Calatagan Public Market/Terminal. Before heading to the resort, buy your supplies (water, meat for grilling, ice) at the market as prices are much higher at the beach.

Take a tricycle to Manuel Uy Beach Resort.

Fare: ₱200 per trike (Good for 4 pax).

Environmental Fee: ₱30 per person (Paid at the tourism office near the market or the resort entrance).





Pro-Tips for a Better Trip


Water is Gold: While there are common shower and toilet areas (which are surprisingly clean), fresh water for drinking must be brought in.

No Bonfires: To protect the shoreline, bonfires and fire pits directly on the sand are strictly prohibited.

Charge Your Gadgets: There is a charging station near the security outpost where you can plug in your phones for a small fee (usually ₱20–₱50).

Low Tide: Check the tide app! During very low tide, the water recedes quite far, revealing the "sandbar" but making it a long walk for a swim.

Stilts Resort seen from Manuel Uy Beach


ALSO IN BATANGAS



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.


Manuel Uy Beach Resort (Camping and Accommodation Guide)

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