Reading: Visitor Information
OverviewGetting There
Manila, Cebu, Davao, Clark, Subic, and Laoag serve as international gateways. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila is the premier gateway, served by more than 30 airlines. The Mactan International Airport in Cebu handles flights from Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, and Australia. Major cruise liners call on the port of Manila.
Entry Regulations
A valid passport is required. Except for stateless persons and those from countries with which the Philippines has no diplomatic relations, most visitors may enter without a visa and stay for 21 days, provided they hold onward-journey tickets. Hong Kong and Taiwan passport holders require special permits obtainable from Philippine embassies and consulates.
Health Regulations
A certificate of vaccination against yellow fever is required for travelers coming from infected areas.
Airport Information
International airports provide duty-free and souvenir shops, tourist information counters, hotel and travel-agency representatives, car rental services, banks and ATMs, postal service, telephone booths, medical clinics, and baggage deposit areas. Airports are handicapped-friendly; wheelchairs are available on request. Visitors should complete Baggage Declaration Forms before disembarking.
Climate & What to Wear
March to May is hot and dry; June to October is rainy; November to February is cool. Average temperatures: 25°C to 32°C; humidity 77%. Light, casual clothes are recommended, with warmer garments for mountain regions. Church and temple visits require avoiding shorts and scanty clothing.
Currency & Tipping
Unit: Peso (P) = 100 centavos. Banknotes: P10, P20, P50, P100, P200, P500, P1,000. Tipping is expected for many services — the standard practice is 10% of the total bill, optional where a 10% service charge is already included.
Local Transport
Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and others provide daily service to major destinations. Interisland ships connect Manila to major ports, and ferries serve smaller islands. Metered and fixed-rate taxis are available in key cities; jeepneys and buses offer inexpensive transportation. Metro Manila's railway system includes the LRT-1, LRT-2, and MRT lines.
Business & Banking Hours
Private and government offices operate 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. or 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Shopping malls, department stores, and supermarkets open 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. daily. Banks: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday–Friday; ATMs operate 24 hours. International credit cards (Visa, Diners Club, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted in major establishments.
Electricity & Water
220 volts, A.C., 60 cycles; most hotels have 110-volt outlets. Water in Metro Manila and key cities is potable; bottled water is widely available.
Public Holidays
New Year's Day (January 1); EDSA Revolution Day (February 24/25); Araw ng Kagitingan (April 9); Maundy Thursday and Good Friday (moveable); Labor Day (May 1); Independence Day (June 12); National Heroes Day (last Sunday of August); All Saints' Day (November 1); Bonifacio Day (November 30); Christmas Day (December 25); Rizal Day (December 30).