Electricity

The electrical current is 220 volts, 60Hz. Two-pin flat blade attachments and two-pin round plugs are used, with round two-pins being the most common.

Language

The two official languages of the Philippines are Filipino (which is based on Tagalog) and English. While Tagalog is widely spoken and serves as the foundation for Filipino, many other languages are spoken throughout the islands.

Money

The currency of the Philippines is the Peso (PHP), which is divided into 100 centavos. Major credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist destinations, but it's recommended to carry some cash for smaller establishments. ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, though access may be limited in more remote locations. While US dollars are accepted in some tourist areas such as Manila, it's usually best to exchange them for pesos. Euros and pounds sterling can also be exchanged at banks and hotels, though the exchange rates may not be as favourable.

In more urbanised areas and tourist destinations, digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly accepted in larger businesses, restaurants and high-end stores. However, their use isn't universal, especially in smaller shops or rural areas where cash remains the preferred payment method.

Most banks in the Philippines operate from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, but ATMs are open 24 hours. It's a good idea for travellers to carry pesos when travelling outside of major centres or areas with more limited payment options.

Tipping

Tipping is expected for most services in the Philippines. The standard practice is 10 percent of the total bill, although in some cases it can be only PHP 20-50. Tipping is optional on bills that already include a 10 percent service charge.

Health

No special vaccination certificates are required for the Philippines, except by travellers arriving from an area infected with yellow fever. There's a risk of malaria and dengue fever in more rural areas; tap water isn't safe to drink and ice in drinks should be avoided. There's also a risk of cholera and the Zika virus.

Medical care is good in Manila, though expensive. Comprehensive travel insurance is advised. Travellers should take along any prescription medication they require, in its original packaging, along with a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing what the medication is and why it's needed.

Safety

The Philippines is a big country and most of it's perfectly safe for travelling. Filipinos are also among the world's most hospitable people. Visitors should be wary of certain regions, though, as they host criminals and terrorist groups.

Cebu City and Manila are big cities where travellers may encounter scams and petty theft, but hold ups and violent crimes are rare. Central and southern Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago have less government control, and are consequently more open to crime, kidnappings and a terrorist presence. Travellers should avoid the Sulu Archipelago and the Zamboanga Peninsula in particular. Southern Palawan can also be risky, though the rest of the island is safe for travelling.

Local customs

In Filipino culture, the concept of hiya (shame) is crucial, as personal behaviour reflects not only on the individual but on their family as well. It's best to avoid causing embarrassment or offending anyone, especially in public. Filipinos are polite and prefer harmony, so they often communicate indirectly. Being too direct can seem impolite, meaning it's best to pay attention to subtle cues in conversation.

Hospitality is another hugely important part of the culture. When offered food or drinks, accepting them shows respect and warmth, while refusing can be seen as disrespectful. Filipinos love sharing, and accepting these gestures makes visitors feel like part of the family.

Family is central, and respect for elders is vital. Greeting older individuals with a mano (pressing their hand to one's forehead) shows respect. It's also common to defer to authority figures, such as elders or bosses.

Religion plays a large role in Filipino life, with Catholicism being dominant. Visitors should be respectful of religious customs, especially in churches. Public displays of affection can be inappropriate in rural areas.

When visiting someone's home, a modest gift is a kind gesture. Filipinos appreciate thoughtfulness, but prefer modesty. Visitors should dress casually, but be modest in religious or formal settings.

At the heart of Filipino culture is respect, warmth and community. Embracing these values will help visitors feel welcomed and show appreciation for Filipino customs.

Doing business

Third-party introductions are highly valued when conducting business in the Philippines, and face-to-face communication is essential. Emphasis is placed on building good working relationships and getting to know one another personally. Business is typically conducted in a formal manner. While punctuality is important, meetings may not always begin on time. Dressing conservatively is recommended: suits and ties are common, although many Filipino men opt for the barong tagalog, a lightweight, traditional shirt that's more comfortable in the humid climate. English is widely spoken in business circles, and standard business hours are from 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday.

Duty free

Travellers to the Philippines over 18 years of age do not have to pay duty on 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco, and 2 litres of alcoholic beverages.

Prohibited items include firearms or parts thereof, explosives and ammunition; printed material that contains subversive, obscene or pornographic content; drugs, gambling machines, lottery sweepstake tickets, or coin-operated gaming machines (such as arcade or pinball machines) that accept coins or tokens; gold, silver, and other precious metals that do not have authentication of quality; non-identifiable brands of medicines or foodstuffs; coca leaves and any prohibited drugs, plants, or parts thereof; as well as fruits and vegetables.

Communications

The international access code for the Philippines is +63. Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, convenience stores, or mobile network provider stores. However, different networks offer better coverage on certain islands, so visitors are advised to choose a network best suited to their destinations. WiFi access is increasingly common, even on remote islands, though quality may vary depending on the location.

Passport & Visa

Everyone entering the Philippines must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival. All visitors must also have return or onward tickets, any necessary documents for further travel, and sufficient funds. A visa is not required for stays of up to 30 days, provided these requirements are met. Visa extensions are possible and should be arranged with the Bureau of Immigration. Visas may also be issued on arrival.

Entry requirements

United States citizens must have a passport that is valid on arrival. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 30 days, and visitors can apply for extensions if they wish to stay longer.

UK citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months after their date of arrival. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 30 days, and visitors can apply for extensions if they wish to stay longer.

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months after their date of departure. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 30 days, and visitors can apply for extensions if they wish to stay longer.

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months after their date of departure. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 30 days, and visitors can apply for extensions if they wish to stay longer.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months after their date of departure. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 30 days, and visitors can apply for extensions if they wish to stay longer.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months after their date of departure. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 30 days, and visitors can apply for extensions if they wish to stay longer.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for six months after their date of departure. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 30 days, and visitors can apply for extensions if they wish to stay longer.

Useful contacts

Philippine Department of Tourism, Manila: beta.tourism.gov.ph

911 (Fire and Rescue, Medical Emergencies), 117 (Police).