Philippines Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.  Exercise increased caution in the Philippines due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.  Do Not Travel to: The Sulu Archipelago, including the southern Sulu Sea, due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest,  and  kidnapping . Marawi City in Mindanao due to  terrorism  and  civil unrest . Reconsider Travel to: Other areas of Minda...

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Philippines safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

St. Luke's, Makati Medical Center, and other top Manila hospitals provide international-standard care with English-speaking staff. Outside Metro Manila and Cebu, hospital facilities drop off significantly in quality and availability.

Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential, especially for island-hopping or travel outside major cities where facilities are limited.

💊 Medication Restrictions

The Philippines has strict anti-drug laws with severe penalties including long prison sentences. Common medications are affordable and widely available at pharmacies like Mercury Drug. Carry prescriptions for controlled substances in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Some medications available OTC elsewhere may be restricted — check with the Philippine FDA if unsure about specific drugs.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Controlled under Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165); prescription required. Import with prescription and BOR (Board of Registration) documentation
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Amphetamines (shabu/meth) are primary drug war targets; Adderall is not recognized as legitimate and is effectively banned. Extreme risk—do NOT bring
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: Cannabis is illegal under RA 9165 with severe penalties; medical cannabis bill pending but not yet law. CBD is also prohibited
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Controlled dangerous drug; available by prescription from licensed physicians. Import with full prescription documentation and PDEA clearance recommended
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Controlled under RA 9165; prescription required. Carry original packaging and doctor's letter. Avoid large quantities

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: 10% at restaurants if no service charge. Round up for taxis. Tip tour guides and drivers PHP 200-500/day.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Raising your voice or showing anger publicly (causes 'loss of face')
• Refusing food offered by a host
• Being overly direct with criticism
• Pointing with your finger (use lips or eyes to indicate direction)
• Arriving exactly on time to social events ('Filipino time' is 15-30 min late)

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in Philippines: