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TRAVEL REPORT
Philippines

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 9 (domestic air travel safety concerns) and Section 10 (Mayon volcano) have been updated.

See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 Flu Virus.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Philippines

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

Continuing reports suggest that there is an ongoing terrorist threat to Westerners and Western interests in the Philippines. Philippine authorities have warned that there may be bomb attacks in Manila and other key cities. Visitors can expect to be subject to frequent security checks at public and private facilities, including shopping malls and public transportation. Travel at night outside of metropolitan areas should be avoided.

Bombings and crime-related shootings have occurred in Mindanao, Manila and other parts of the country, and explosive devices continue to be discovered by security authorities. Canadians should be vigilant and comply with all security procedures.

The Philippines will hold national elections on May 10, 2010. The security situation remains uncertain and the risk of election related violence exists. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and avoid any protests, demonstrations and large gatherings, as the situation could deteriorate rapidly.

Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao

Exercise normal security precautions

Exercise high degree of caution

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid all travel

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), comprising Basilan, Sulu, Tawi Tawi, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, and Sharif Kabunsuan, as well as the Zamboanga Peninsula, Zamboanga del Sur, Saragani, Lanao del Norte, Davao del Sur (excluding urban areas of Davao City), South Cotabato, North Cotabato and Sultan Kudarat. Canadians living in these areas should reassess their security situation. Recent reports indicate that there may be an increased risk of foreigners being kidnapped in the Alindahaw Tukuran area of Zamboanga del sur. Canadians are advised to take extreme safety precautions, particularly when visiting places frequented by foreigners such as resorts. Clashes since August 2008 have killed dozens of people, including civilians. There continues to be a threat of terrorist attacks, which could occur at anytime in this region. In the recent past there have been several bombings in a number of locations, including (but not limited to) Cotabato, Kidapawan, Zamboanga City, General Santos City, Iligan City and Davao City causing several deaths and numerous injuries. There have been explosions in various areas of Mindanao in the first week of July 2009, including Cotabato, Illigan and Jolo, in which a number of people have been killed or injured. There are increasing concerns over the recent escalation of attacks, and the potential for further attacks in other major centres in Mindanao. On November 23, 2009, election related violence in the province of Maguindanao resulted in the deaths of at least 57 people. Consequently, a state of emergency has been imposed in the provinces of Maguindanao and Sultan Kudarat, and in Cotabato City.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

The threat of terrorist activities exists, particularly in Mindanao. Bombs have exploded in shopping malls, on public transportation, at airports and port facilities, in places of worship, and in other public areas. Further explosions are possible anywhere in the country.

Canadians should be alert to the danger of kidnapping in the Philippines. Although government action has reduced the frequency of kidnappings, there remain reports of planned kidnap-for-ransom of business people. Kidnappings have occurred throughout the country, including in Manila and several resort areas, and deaths have resulted in some cases. Canadians should be cautious when travelling to, and around, coastal areas and island resorts.

Crime continues to be a serious concern, especially in Manila. Avoid displays of affluence such as jewellery. Do not carry large sums of money, and keep valuables in safekeeping facilities. Criminal gangs are active in Manila, including the Makati central business district, and have drugged and robbed unsuspecting tourists. Visitors should not accept offers of food, drink, or transportation from strangers, and should not leave food or drinks unattended, particularly in bars. Bystanders have been hit by stray gunfire in armed robberies and subsequent pursuit of the perpetrators. Avoid disturbances, rallies and demonstrations.

Canadians should exercise caution when using public transportation, including buses and the light rail system, due to safety and security concerns. Incidents of taxi drivers using threats to extort money from passengers have been reported. Visitors should arrange to be met at airports, use hotel transportation, or use the taxi booking services in arrival halls. Use officially marked taxis only and do not share them with strangers.

Ferry accidents are not uncommon in the Philippines due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels. Caution and common sense should be exercised when using marine transportation in the Philippines. Travellers are advised not to board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy. Safety standards differ from those in Canada.

Following the death of three foreign tourists in August 2009 due to a landslide, Philippine authorities are advising to avoid the Mount Pinatubo area.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines and its consulates, for up-to-date information.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit the Philippines. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into the country. Canadians must also be in possession of an onward or return ticket.

As of March 1, 2008, Canadians do not require a visa for stays up to 21 days. Canadians intending to stay for more than 21 days must apply for a visa at the Embassy of the Philippines in Canada. Alternatively, they may apply for an extension before the 21 day period expires at the Philippine Bureau of Immigration while in the country. 

The Philippine government is vigorously enforcing immigration and entry laws. For this reason, all Canadians travelling to the Philippines should ensure they have the proper and valid visa. Canadians have been apprehended for having improper visas or violating immigration laws. Offenders can expect jail sentences, fines, and/or deportation and may also be prohibited from entering the Philippines in the future. Therefore, it is important that all travellers ensure they meet all entry requirements prior to their departure from Canada.

An Airport Users Charge of 750 pesos (payable in local currency or the equivalent in U.S. dollars, in cash only) is required upon departure from the international airport in Manila.

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A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Philippines - MANILA, Embassy of Canada
Address: 6th, 7th, and 8th Floors, RCBC Plaza Tower 2, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Makati City, Manila, Philippines
Postal Address: P.O. Box 2168, Makati City 1220, 1261 Makati
Tel.: 63 (2) 857-9000, 857-9001
Fax: 63 (2) 843-1082
E-Mail: manil@international.gc.ca, manil-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.philippines.gc.ca

Philippines - CEBU, Consulate of Canada
Address: 45-L Andres Abellana Street, Cebu City 6000, Philippines
Tel.: 63 (32) 256-3320
Fax: 63 (32) 255-3068
E-Mail: canada-consulate-cebu@mozcom.com
Internet: http://www.philippines.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Manila and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 1 800 1-110-0226. Please note that this toll-free number is only available from a landline.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

The authorities in the Philippines have implemented enhanced screening measures at all international airports in response to the H1N1 Flu Virus outbreak. Travellers entering the Philippines are subject to a body temperature check. In some cases, travellers may be isolated and treated.

Good medical care is available in Manila, Cebu and Baguio. Medical care is limited in rural and more remote areas and islands. Most hospitals will require a down payment of estimated fees at the time of admission. Decompression chambers are located in Manila, Cebu, Batangas, Subic and Palawan.

Over-the-counter medicines are available in the Philippines. Travellers who wish to bring their own may do so, but only in quantities sufficient for the duration of their stay. All drugs, including non-prescription drugs such as vitamins and aspirin, should be kept in their original containers.

Travellers carrying prescription drugs should bring a letter from their physician stating the condition for which they are receiving treatment and the dosage. Those travelling onward to another country are advised that a separate quantity of prescription drugs should be sealed and declared again before departing the country.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

The penalty for drug offences is very strict. Convicted offenders face life imprisonment for certain drug-related crimes. Life in prison is often imposed for rape. Pedophiliac activity is also severely punished. Conviction for "swindling" or "bad debts" can result in sentences of up to 20 years.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Driving conditions are poor. Roads are crowded and many drivers do not follow safe driving practices. Avoid travel outside urban areas and tourist centres after dark. Stay on national highways and paved roads.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended. However, Canadians wishing to remain in the Philippines for a lengthy period should apply for a local driving permit.

Ferry accidents are not uncommon in the Philippines due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels. Caution and common sense should be exercised when using marine transportation in the Philippines. Travellers are advised not to board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy. Safety standards differ from those in Canada.

Travellers should be aware that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has recently raised “significant safety concerns” with the Philippines civil aviation. Canadians should carefully evaluate implications for their safety before deciding to undertake domestic air travel.

See our FAQ on transportation for more information on national airlines safety standards.

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The currency is the Philippine peso. Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments. Credit card fraud is common. Users should pay careful attention when their cards are being handled by others during payment processing. Only U.S. dollar traveller's cheques can be exchanged in banks, hotels, restaurants, and shops. Automated banking machines are available in larger cities.

Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The Philippines is subject to earthquakes and volcanic activity. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Manila in the event of an emergency.

Travellers should be aware there are a number of active and potentially active volcanoes in the Philippines. Canadians should pay careful attention to all warnings issued, avoid restricted areas, and follow the advice of local authorities in the event of an eruption. Updated information on volcanoes in the Philippines is available from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) Web site.

The monsoon season extends from November to April in the northeast and May to October in the southwest. Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. Typhoons also occur usually between June and October. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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12. ANNEX

N/A

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