• Languages

    Two official languages --- Filipino and English. Filipino which is based on Tagalog, is the national language. English is also widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education.

  • Currency

    The currency in the Philippines is the Peso (PhP) and the Centavo. 100 centavos = P1. Coin denominations are: 1, 5, 10, and 25 centavos, P1, and P5. Bill denominations are : 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1, 000 pesos.

    Foreign currency may be exchanged at your hotel, and in most of the large department stores, banks and authorized money changing shops. Exchanging money anywhere else is illegal and the laws are strictly enforced.

    Most large stores, restaurants, hotels and resorts accept major credit cards including American Express, Visas and MasterCard. Travelers checks preferably American Express are accepted at hotels and large department stores. Personal checks drawn on foreign banks are generally not accepted.

  • Electricity

    220 volts a/c is the common standard. 110 volts a/c is also used, especially in major hotels.

  • Clothing

    People in the Philippines dress for the weather. Casual attire during the day for women are light blouses and shorts. For men collared T- shirts worn over slacks. In the evening skirts are substituted for shorts and the T-shirts are tucked in.

    For Formal Occasions for Men Barong Tagalog is the national formal wear in the country which is available at nearest department store. It is an embroidered shirt that is considered a formal dress. It will cost more or less PhP1, 000.00 depending on the fiber used and the embroidery.

  • Business Hours

    Most businesses are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays and 8:00 AM till noon Saturdays. Banks are open from 9:00 AM till 3:00 PM Mondays through Fridays. When banking in the Philippines, it is advisable to have your passport with you for identification.

    NOTE: The Standard lunch hour is noon to 1:00 PM. Most businesses and government offices are closed.

  • Time Difference

    Local time is GMT plus 8 hours.

    Airport Tax

    Passenger Terminal Fee is levied on all passengers embarking for:

    • International travel (including Security Fee): PHP 750

    • Domestic travel: PHP 200

    Place of payment: Airport of departure.

    Exempt:

    • Children under 2 years of age.

    • Transit passengers remaining in the transit area and not leaving the airport.

    • Crew members.

  • Tipping

    Tipping is expected for most services. The standard practice is 10% of the total bill. Tipping is optional on bills that already include a 10% service charge.

    Source: www.tourism.gov.ph