Visa and Immigration Procedures to Philippines

Philippines - Local Climate / Weather

The Philippines has a tropical climate, with an average temperature of 26-27°C, and is characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year. The rainy season is from June to November, and the dry season is from December to May, but the difference varies considerably depending on the region. Summer clothes are fine for clothing. However, air conditioning can be quite strong in airplanes, night buses, hotels, department stores, etc., so it's a good idea to wear something on top. The sun is also strong, so it's a good idea to bring sunglasses and a hat.

Philippines - Currency & Tipping

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Currency

The unit of currency used is the Philippine peso (PHP), with the centavo as the secondary currency. There are six denominations of banknotes: 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, and 20 pesos. There are seven denominations of coins: 10, 5, and 1 peso, and 25, 10, 5, and 1 centavo.

Tipping

It is recommended to Give 10 to 20 pesos per piece of luggage to porters at airports and hotels. At restaurants, check to see if a service charge is added to the price. If not, give 10% if the service is very good, or less if it is not. By the way, the standard amount to give to taxi drivers is 20 pesos.

Useful Travel Information

Philippines - Voltage & Electrical Outlets

The voltage is 220 volts, so check the compatible voltage indicated on the instruction manual or product. The voltage plugs are A, C, and O types.

Philippines - Internet Connectivity

Internet environment in the Philippines In urban areas, Wi-Fi hotspots are installed in large malls and restaurants, and medium-distance buses equipped with free Wi-Fi are also running. Most mid-range and higher hotels can use it, and even if it doesn't work, you can connect with a LAN cable, so you won't be unable to use it if you bring your computer. However, if you go even a little away from the city, the number of connection points will be limited.

Philippines - Water for Consumption (Drinking Water)

The tap water pipes are old and very unsanitary, so be sure to buy mineral water.

Culture, Religion & Social Etiquette

Philippines - Culture

Filipinos have a generous personality, so even if you meet them for the first time, many people will be friendly and smile. Perhaps because it is a southern island country, the national character is laid-back.

Philippines - Religion

The only Christian country in ASEAN, 83% of the population is Catholic, and 10% are other Christians. Islam accounts for 5% (Muslims make up more than 20% of the population in Mindanao).

Philippines - Social Etiquette

There are areas in public places in Metro Manila where smoking is prohibited. In addition, smoking is completely prohibited in public spaces and facilities in Makati City and Davao City. Also, although toilets in the Philippines do not have toilet seats. Hotels and shopping malls now have toilet seats and toilet paper, but generally neither are provided, so be careful. Please do not flush toilet paper after use, but put it in a bucket provided. In terms of traffic, the driving is much rougher than, so please be careful of cars on the roads.

Philippines - Food Culture

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A popular dish in the Philippines is "lechon," a whole roasted suckling pig on a skewer, which is sometimes served at celebratory occasions. They also have roast pork, but also "crispy pata," a type of deep-fried pork. In addition to meat, there is a wide variety of other dishes on the menu, including "sinigang," a traditional sour Filipino soup, pancit noodles, Chinese-style fried noodles, and desserts.

Philippines - Major Tourist Attractions & UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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Philippines - Major Tourist Attractions

A famous tourist destination is San Agustin Church (Manila), built in 1606. It is the oldest stone church in the Philippines, and the beautiful chandeliers and murals inside the Baroque-style church are highlights. In addition, the adjacent museum has a large number of religious paintings and ceremonial vestments on display. Another recommended spot is Intramuros. It is a walled city with many buildings from the time of Spanish rule, and is a popular tourist spot where you can stroll through the European-style streets. You can also enjoy snorkeling and diving in the beautiful sea.

Philippines - UNESCO World Heritage Sites

There are three natural and cultural heritage sites in the Philippines. In Puerto Princesa, one of them, you can take a boat tour of the river flowing through the limestone caves of the Subterranean River National Park, and you can enjoy it as a set with the Tubbataha Reef Marine Park. Other UNESCO World Heritage sites include four churches established in the 16th century under Spanish rule, the Baroque Churches of the Philippines, the Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordillera, and the Historic City of Vigan.

Philippines- Souvenirs

When you think of the Philippines, the first thing that comes to mind is dried fruit. They are inexpensive and consistently delicious, so they are recommended as souvenirs. In addition, "Otap," is popular for its lightly sweet and crispy texture, and is also a standard Philippine souvenir. In addition to food, soap and coconut oil are also popular among travelers.

Things/Items Allowed into Philippines

Things/Items Forbidden out of Philippines

Things/Items Forbidden into Philippines

Philippines Travel FAQs

Philippines - Direct Flights to Major Airports

Flight Routes to Philippines