7,000+ Islands
Our sun-drenched archipelago is a feast for the senses. Embraced by water, blessed with teeming reefs and graced with terraces sculpted onto mountainsides, it’s a charismatic place where volcanoes are perfect cones and hills look like chocolate kisses.
Boasting six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, there is something to see in every corner for every kind of traveler.
Happy People
Mabuhay means “hello” and “welcome” in Filipino. It’s a phrase you’ll see and hear often when you visit the Philippines.
More than a typical greeting, it’s a cheery three-syllable word that feels like a big, warm hug. It is meant to make you feel like part of the family.
Generosity is a national trait and our smiles a national treasure.
Festive Moments
In a country with diverse landscapes, cultural characteristics and more than 185 languages and dialects there is one thing Filipinos share—the propensity for celebration, commemoration and congregation.
Fiesta season is a sight to behold. The air is filled with merriment and the aroma of a town’s best dishes.
Going Around
You can travel in luxurious or rugged comfort, privately or with a group. Day trips, guided tours and longer travel itineraries are easily arranged.
Special interest activities include culinary jaunts, trekking, spelunking, safari trips, volcano exploration, diving, golfing, game fishing, white-water rafting and other aqua sports.
Capital
Manila is the capital city. The seat of government is Metro Manila or the National Capital Region (NCR).
Currency
Philippine Peso (PHP).
Climate
Hot and dry from March to May; rainy from June to October; cool and windy from November to February.
Business Hours
Government offices and banks are open on weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Malls and supermarkets are open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm daily.
There are 24-hour convenience stores and drugstores. ATMs in highly urbanized cities are available 24 hours daily.
Communications Facilities
International and national direct dialing, facsimile services, mobile phone coverage, internet, Wi-Fi connectivity, email facilities and worldwide express delivery services are available.
Electricity
220 volts, AC. 60 cycles. Most hotels have 110 volt outlets.
Accommodations
Metro Manila and key cities offer a complete range of lodgings, from luxurious to rustic. There are international hotel chains, all-inclusive resorts, hip boutique properties, historical estates, private villas, traditional local hotels, low-key inns and charming bed and breakfasts.
Language
We have more than 185 languages and dialects. Filipino is the official language while English is the medium of instruction.
Taglish (English + Tagalog) is the one you’ll likely hear more in urbanized areas.
Time Zone
GMT +8:00.
Temperature
77 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit or 25 to 32 degrees Celsius.
Tipping
10% of the total bill is normal but optional if there is a service charge.
Credit Cards
Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard and American Express are accepted in major establishments.
Always bring cash, since the most interesting purchases are usually made on a whim, from the most intriguing sellers.
Water
Bottled water is generally available but you may also refill your containers from hotels and food establishments.
Shopping
Philippine products are famous for their artistry and exquisite handiwork. Fill your bags with South Sea pearls, hand-woven cloths, terracotta and porcelain products, coral and mother-of-pearl home accessories, pineapple fiber shirts, pre-historic jars, basketry, jewelry and gift items made of shell, wood and stone, as well as fresh and processed fruits and all manner of savory and sweet edibles.
Curiously Filipino
Born, bred, practiced and popularized in the Philippines—these snapshots of everything Filipino captures the essence of what makes something “Pinoy” (slang for Filipino).
From occasional quirks and exotic food to national symbols and historical figures, we keep this list fun and fresh for you to enjoy.
Halo-Halo
Santo Niño
Puso
Jeepney Art
Bulul
Anting-Anting
Balut
Kalesa metal horse
