Philippines

Terrorist attacks, including bombings, are possible anytime, anywhere in the Philippines although in recent years there have been very few incidents in the areas of Manila. 

The Philippine media occasionally reports that terrorists may be planning attacks.

Possible targets for future attacks include places travellers and expats visit, such as:

• transport hubs and the metro system
• hotels, shopping malls, clubs, restaurants, bars and markets
• places of worship
• outdoor recreation events
• other tourist areas

Mindanao and the southern Philippines

These areas have a high threat of:

• terrorist attacks
• kidnapping
• piracy 
• violent crime
• violent clashes between armed groups

We continue to advise do not travel to central or western Mindanao. If despite our advice you visit these areas:

• get professional security advice
• have effective personal security measures in place

If you get into trouble, the Australian Government may be unable to help. In most cases, our ability to provide consular assistance in do not travel locations is extremely limited.

Any travel by Australian officials to do not travel locations is subject to high-level approval and is based on a rigorous risk assessment.

Terror attacks

Terror attacks include:

• On 24 August 2020, a dual bomb attack in Jolo, Sulu killed 14 people and injured 75.
• On 7 September 2019, a bomb blast in a public market in Sultan Kudarat, Mindanao injured 7 people.
• On 28 June 2019, several soldiers and civilians were killed in a suicide bombing at the entrance to a military base at Indanan in Sulu, Mindanao.
• On 30 January 2019, a grenade attack at the Mahardika mosque in Zamboanga City, Mindanao killed 2 people and injured others.
• On 27 January 2019, a bomb attack at the Roman Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Jolo, Sulu, Mindanao, killed more than 27 people and injured many more.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping can happen anywhere in the Philippines. Kidnapping can be business, criminal or terrorist-related. The threat is highest in central and western Mindanao, especially:

• along the Zamboanga Peninsula
• in the Sulu Archipelago
• off the coast of Saba, Malaysia

Locals, expatriates and foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped in central and western Mindanao and in eastern Malaysia. In the past, kidnappers have targeted popular tourist areas in:

• southern Palawan
• Bohol
• southern Negros
• southern Cebu
• Siquijor

Kidnappers sometimes hold victims for a long time, sometimes for years, before releasing them. They sometimes kill their captives.

The Australian Government has a longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

The threat of piracy in the southern Philippines is high, especially in the area of the Sulu Archipelago.

If you travel to the southern Philippines despite our advice:

• get professional security advice
• arrange personal security measures
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• avoid isolated coastal locations, especially after dark
• avoid travelling by boat, especially in the Sulu Archipelago and between Sabah, Malaysia, and Palawan in the Philippines
• check the International Maritime Bureau's Piracy Reporting Centre

More information:

• Kidnapping
• Travelling by boat

Avoid all protests, demonstrations, or rallies, and monitor local media for updated information. See our general information on demonstrations. 

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people are not uncommon and can gather quickly. Sometimes they can turn violent.

It's illegal to take part in political rallies if you're not Filipino. Authorities may deport Australians or cancel their visas for being involved.

Armed clashes occur between security forces and militants, throughout the country but especially in central and western Mindanao.

The armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), the New People’s Army (CPP-NPA), operates throughout the Philippines. They are often involved in attacks targeting Philippine security forces.

In Mindanao, armed clashes between rival clans and other armed groups are also common, often resulting in deaths.

If you see a confrontation between police and criminals or between rival groups, leave the area straight away.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime

Violent crime is a serious problem in the Philippines.

Gun ownership is widespread and poorly regulated. This adds to the high rate of violent crime.

Gunfights between police and criminals have occurred in the past, including in tourist areas in Manila. People, including bystanders, have been killed or injured in such incidents.

Terrorist groups are sometimes involved in violent criminal activities in rural areas. They target business interests, including mining projects, for extortion. 

Several Australians have died after property disputes turned violent.

There have been instances where armed criminals have robbed and killed or injured people on:

• buses
• the metro
• jeepneys

Avoid travel on these forms of transport.

Gangs are active in Manila, and provincial resort towns. 

Gangs can drug, rob or assault tourists.

To avoid drink spiking:

• never accept food or drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended
• if you aren't sure if a drink is safe, leave it
• stick with people you trust in bars, nightclubs and taxis

Petty crime and scams

Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common. Be careful in crowded shopping malls and other public places.

Scams, including those involving property ownership, business ventures, credit cards and ATMs, are common. You should seek legal advice before committing to any major financial decision.

Online relationship and friendship scams are common. In the past, victims, which have included Australians, have been blackmailed or found themselves facing legal action.

• Be cautious of anyone you meet online from overseas.
• Learn the signs of a relationship scam. Know what to watch for.
• Never send money.
• If you've already given them money, don't go overseas to try to get it back.
• Always confirm their identity (including their age), before going overseas to meet them.

Learn more about internet friendship, dating and marriage scams on ScamWatch. 

To protect yourself from scams:

• undertake due diligence when entering into business ventures
• only use ATMs in secure locations such as banks, shops and shopping centres
• always keep your debit and credit cards in sight

To protect yourself from crime:

• always keep your personal belongings close, especially in crowded areas
• monitor local sources for information about new security risks

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Swimming off coastal areas is risky.

Severe currents and rips are common in coastal areas. Many travellers have drowned, including at popular resorts.

Lifeguards are rarely available.

A red flag means you shouldn't enter the water.

If you plan on swimming:

• take extra care when swimming off coastal areas
• never swim after dark or after consuming alcohol
• don't swim where there are red flags
• get local advice before swimming

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for adventure activities such as diving.

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

The Philippines experiences frequent natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• Typhoons
• Volcanic eruptions
• Earthquakes
• Tsunamis

To protect yourself during a natural disaster:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor news and other weather information sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• take official warnings seriously and follow the advice of local authorities
• have a plan of what to do
• keep in touch with friends and family

Identify local sources of support and advice that can help you after a natural disaster.

If you're visiting after a natural disaster, contact your tour operator to check if services are affected.

Typhoons

Typhoons usually occur between late May and December and cause significant damage and disruption. 

The direction and strength of typhoons can change with little warning.

Typhoons may disrupt telephone, internet and communications.

If you're travelling during typhoon season:

• know your accommodation's evacuation plans
• identify your local shelter
• check the latest typhoon information at the Joint Typhoon Warning Centre

If there's a typhoon:

• adequate shelter may not be available
• flights and ferries could be delayed or suspended, and travel could be unsafe
• available flights and ferries may fill quickly
• ports could be affected

Contact your airline for the latest flight information.

More information:

• National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC)
• Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)

Earthquakes and volcanoes

The Philippines is located on the Ring of Fire. Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are common. It may take some time for full services to resume.

• On 27 July 2022, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake occurred in Abra, Northern Luzon, resulting in landslides and damage to infrastructure. The earthquake was felt in Manila. 
• On 12 August 2021, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit in Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental.
• On 24 July 2021, a 6.6 magnitude earthquake hit at an intermediate depth of 130km beneath the epicentre near Balayan, Luzon.
• On 7 February 2021 a 6.3 magnitude earthquake occurred 6km southeast of Magsaysay, Davao Del Sur at an intensity of 5 (strong) in Kidapawan City causing injuries and damage to the area.
• On 22 January 2021, a 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental.
• On 25 December 2020, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake occurred offshore near Batangas in central Luzon. This earthquake was felt in Manila.
• In April 2019 a 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck the northern Luzon region. It damaged infrastructure and disrupted essential services, including transport. This earthquake was felt in Manila.

Monitor media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has set up permanent danger zones (PDZ) around the summits of several volcanoes:

• Mayon volcano in Albay Province has an 8km PDZ
• Bulusan volcano in Bicol Province has a 4km PDZ
• the entire volcanic island of Taal is a PDZ

Avoid areas around all of these volcanoes.

On 12 January 2020, Taal Volcano, in the southern Luzon province of Batangas, erupted. Residents within 14 km were advised to evacuate, and ash clouds travelling over Manila affected both international and domestic flights at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

On 26 and 27 March 2022, Taal Volcano erupted again, resulting in a temporary increase to the alert level and evacuation of a number of surrounding communities.

Volcanic activity may increase with little or no notice. It may disrupt flights in the region. Individual airlines make their own decisions about flight operations. Contact your airline or tour operator for up-to-date information.

If there is major volcanic activity, monitor warnings from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

Tsunamis

Large and destructive tsunamis can happen.

If there's a tsunami warning:

• check the US Tsunami Warning Centre website regularly
• follow the advice of local authorities

Move to high ground straight away if:

• you feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• you feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• you see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• you hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media and weather services.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you travel.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. 

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

The Australian Government won't pay for your medical expenses overseas or medical evacuation costs. This can be very expensive and if you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

If you travel to central and western Mindanao despite our advice, you'll probably need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to these areas.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of someone you know, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

If you need to speak to counselling services in the Philippines, contact the following:

• In Touch (Crisis Line # +63 2 8893 7603 | +63 917 800 1123 | +63 922 893 8944)
• National Centre for Mental Health (NCMH) (Crisis Hotline +63 917 899 8272 | +63917 898 8272)

You can also contact the Australian Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305. 

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
• COVID-19 (Department of Health and Aged Care)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in the Philippines. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in the Philippines.

Follow the Philippine Department of Tourism for the latest advice on COVID-19 regulations. You should ensure you understand the requirements and restrictions where you're staying.

You must wear a face mask in healthcare facilities (for example, clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes), medical transport (ambulances) and on all public transportation (land, sea, air). Mask-wearing is encouraged for the elderly, people with comorbidities, the immunocompromised, pregnant women, unvaccinated travellers and anyone displaying COVID-19 symptoms. Follow the advice of local authorities. 

Some venues/restaurants may request proof of vaccination before entry. You should carry a copy of your vaccination status and be prepared to show it upon request.

For information on the Philippines's COVID−19 vaccination program, refer to the Philippines Department of Health. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.

To obtain a COVID-19 test, visit the Licensed COVID-19 Testing Laboratories in the Philippines | Department of Health website for a list of accredited testing laboratories in the Philippines.

More information:

• Novel coronavirus (Philippine Department of Health)
• Coronavirus (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• COVID-19 testing sites
• COVID-19 vaccines

Rabies

Rabies is a risk throughout the Philippines, including in Manila.

To protect yourself from rabies:

• avoid direct contact with dogs
• don't feed or pat animals
• avoid contact with other animals, including bats.

Talk to your doctor about getting a pre-exposure rabies vaccination if you're planning to:

• stay in the Philippines for a long time
• work with animals.

If bitten or scratched by an animal:

• immediately use soap and water to wash the wound thoroughly
• seek urgent medical attention.

Measles

There have been recent measles outbreaks throughout the Philippines, including Manila.

In 2019, the Philippines reported more than 47,000 cases of measles and over 630 deaths. The Philippines Department of Health advised the outbreak was under control in April 2019; however, the outbreak declaration has not lifted.

Get vaccinated against measles.

More information:

• Philippine Department of Health
• Australian Department of Health and Aged Care

Polio

Polio is an infectious disease that can spread rapidly and mainly affects young children. It can cause muscle weakness, paralysis and, on rare occasions, it can be fatal. Make sure you're vaccinated against polio.

On 19 September 2019, the Philippines Department of Health reported a polio outbreak. This was declared to have ended in June 2021.

More information:

• Australian Department of Health and Aged Care
• World Health Organization

Insect-borne illnesses

Malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, filariasis, and other insect-borne illnesses are increasing in Manila and neighbouring provinces. 

These illnesses are more common during the rainy season between May and December.

Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis before you travel.

There's no vaccination or specific treatment available for dengue or Zika virus.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to affected areas

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

More information:

• Infectious diseases
• Dengue Fact Sheet - WHO
• Dengue cases snapshot - UN

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a risk for travellers.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to risk of infection.

Condoms may be difficult to find outside Manila.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common, including:

• Cholera
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis
• Tuberculosis
• Meningitis 

Serious outbreaks can occur.

Lakes and rivers can contain waterborne diseases, such as:

• Bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• Leptospirosis

Risks are highest after flooding and continue after floods recede.

Swimmers in coastal resort areas have also reported illness from pollution.

To reduce your risk of illness:

• drink boiled water or water from bottles with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water sources
• always check with local authorities before swimming in waters

Get medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.

Fish poisoning

Ciguatera fish poisoning from eating reef fish can be a hazard.

More information:

• Queensland Health ciguatera information

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Avian influenza occurs in farm birds.

To protect yourself from avian influenza:

• stay away from live poultry
• don't visit live bird and animal markets, including 'wet' markets and poultry farms

When preparing food, handle poultry properly. Make sure you thoroughly cook all parts of the poultry.

Medical facilities

Major private hospitals, particularly in Metro Manila, are well-equipped and internationally accredited. Medical facilities in rural/regional areas may have limited services and facilities, including in some popular tourist destinations.  

In December 2021, Super Typhoon Odette (Rai) made landfall on Siargao and Dinagat Islands in the southeast of the Philippines before moving across the whole country's centre. Infrastructure in affected regions remain partially affected, including medical facilities, particularly in the provinces of Siargao del Norte (Siargao), Dinagat, and Southern Leyte.

Most hospitals need up-front payment or guarantee of payment before they'll treat you. Treatment can be expensive.

Hospitals may cease treatment if ongoing bills are not settled. You should ensure you understand what your Philippine health fund or travel insurance provider will and will not cover.

Decompression chambers are available in:

• Makati City
• Cebu City
• Batangas City
• Quezon City
• Puerto Princesa City

It is common for decompression chambers not to be working.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

For a list of hospitals in the Philippines visit the Philippine Department of Health website.

You'll be subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

If you're accused of a crime, authorities may not let you leave the Philippines until investigations and legal proceedings are finished.

The justice process can take a long time. Some court cases take years and you may be held in detention for a long time before your trial is finalised.

Australians accused of crimes have experienced financial and other difficulties while waiting for their cases to finish.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long jail terms, including life imprisonment, for even small amounts.

A major clampdown on drugs - the war on drugs - has been underway since 2016. There are mandatory jail sentences for possessing even small amounts of illicit drugs. Thousands have been arrested and a large number of people have been killed in drug-related violence.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

The Philippines also has strong laws against child sex crimes and human trafficking. Authorities have arrested and prosecuted a number of foreigners, including Australians, for these offences. Sentences can include life imprisonment.

It's illegal to take photos of official buildings for publication.

It's illegal to take part in political rallies if you're not Filipino. Authorities may deport Australians or cancel their visas for being involved.

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law

Local laws don't protect LGBTI rights.

Locals generally tolerate the LGBTI community. However, open displays of affection between same-sex partners may offend. 

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

The Philippines recognises dual nationality.

Always travel on your Australian passport.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visas

You are permitted to enter the Philippines without a visa for a period of stay of 30 days or less provided that you meet all of the requirements.

Failure to meet entry requirements may result in you being denied entry to the Philippines and detained until the next available flight to your port of departure or Australia, at your own expense.

See the following links for the latest information:

• Philippine Embassy in Australia website 
• Philippines Bureau of Immigration website
• Philippines Office of Consular Affairs website
• Philippines Tourism

Ensure you keep your visa up to date.  Failure to do so may result in you being:

• fined or arrested
• detained in immigration detention
• deported back to Australia at your cost
• blacklisted from future travel to the Philippines

Detention conditions in the Philippines do not compare with Australian standards, and deportation processes can be lengthy. 

You can apply to extend your tourist visa (visa waiver) through the Philippines Bureau of Immigration and pay the appropriate fees.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Get further details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules from:

• the nearest embassy or consulate of the Philippines
• the Philippines Bureau of Immigration website

Border measures

All arrivals

Australians are permitted to enter the Philippines quarantine free and without a visa for a period of 30 days or less provided that you meet all of the requirements.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months, and you must have onward/return tickets for no later than 30 days from your arrival in the Philippines.

You must register at the eArrival Pass online portal and complete the electronic health declaration checklist in order to receive a QR code for validation by the Bureau of Quarantine.

Children under 15 years of age may need a Waiver of Exclusion Ground if they're:

• not accompanied by a parent
• coming to meet a parent or parents in the Philippines

You should declare any:

• local cash of more than PHP50,000 to Bureau of Customs officers at the airport when you arrive or leave
• amounts of more than $US10,000 or of the same value in a different foreign currency
• this covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Confirm requirements through your travel provider or nearest Philippine Embassy.

Check and fully understand the requirements of the airline you're travelling with, as their requirements may be different.

Failure to meet entry requirements may result in you being denied entry to the Philippines and detained until the next available flight to your port of departure or to Australia. This will be at your own expense.

For more information, see the latest IATF Resolution.

Fully vaccinated travellers

You must have the following proofs of vaccination against COVID-19, recognised under existing regulations by the Philippines Inter-Agency Task Force:

• World Health Organization International Certificates of Vaccination and Prophylaxis; or
• VaxCertPH; or
• National/state digital certificate of the foreign government which has accepted VaxCertPH under a reciprocal arrangement unless otherwise permitted by the IATF. Australian-issued International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates meet current entry requirements.

Follow the Philippine Department of Tourism for the latest advice, including information on who is considered fully vaccinated.

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers

If you're unvaccinated or partially vaccinated, you should present a negative result of a remotely supervised or laboratory based COVID-19 (RAT) test administered and certified by a healthcare professional in a healthcare facility, laboratory, clinic, pharmacy, or other similar establishment, taken within 24 hours before departure. If you're unable to provide a negative COVID-19 (RAT) result, you'll be required to undergo a laboratory based COVID-19 (RAT) on arrival at the airport. Anyone who tests positive will be required to quarantine in line with local protocols. You may need to cover the cost of COVID-19 testing and quarantine.

Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children under 15 years old who are travelling with a fully vaccinated adult may be exempt from this requirement.

Staying in the Philippines

You should ensure you keep your visa up to date.

Follow the Philippine Department of Tourism for the latest advice on COVID-19 regulations. You should ensure you understand the requirements and restrictions where you're staying. 

For detailed advice refer to the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). The IATF publishes resolutions outlining the current quarantine levels and other specific restrictions. The Philippine COVID-19 website details what these levels mean for you.

You must wear a face mask in healthcare facilities (for example, clinics, hospitals, and nursing homes), medical transport (ambulances) and on all public transportation (land, sea, air). Mask-wearing is encouraged for the elderly, people with comorbidities, the immunocompromised, pregnant women, unvaccinated travellers and anyone displaying COVID-19 symptoms. Follow the advice of local authorities. 

If you obtained your vaccination abroad, you may need your international vaccination evidence verified by the Bureau of Quarantine on arrival in the Philippines. Australian-issued International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates meet current entry requirements.

Visit the Embassy website or Facebook page for more information and to subscribe to updates.

Departure from the Philippines

Airlines and transiting country protocols may differ. It's important that you check and fully understand the requirements of the airline you are travelling with. You should also check requirements for the country you are transiting through.

You must have current visas and exit paperwork to depart. You may need an Emigration Clearance Certificate (ECC) from the Philippines Bureau of Immigration before you leave the Philippines if you have stayed in the Philippines for more than six months. You'll need to visit an immigration office in person to undertake biometrics. Allow enough time to complete the process at immigration office. For more information visit the Philippines Bureau of Immigration.

Children born in the Philippines who are leaving the country for the first time on a foreign passport will need an ECC.

You must pay any outstanding visa fees or fines or risk not being able to depart the country. You may be detained by the Philippine Government and subject to a lengthy deportation process.

You must have no outstanding legal issues or court cases. You need to contact the relevant court or the Bureau of Immigration to confirm that you do not have any travel restrictions (Hold Departure Order; Watchlist and Blacklist).

Check the Philippines Bureau of Immigration website for more detailed information or make an appointment to settle your visa issues.

Depending on your Philippine visa type (such as those issued by the Philippine Department of Justice (DoJ), the Philippine Board of Investments (BoI), the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) or the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA)), you may need to obtain a Travel Pass from the Department that issued your visa in order to leave the Philippines. If you hold an ECC issued by the Bureau of Immigration you may be exempt from this requirement.

If you're leaving the Philippines from Mactan-Cebu or Clark International Airports, you need to pay a departure tax.

If transiting through a third country, ensure you have completed any forms to transit that country. Ensure you have six months validity on your passport.

Transiting through the Philippines

All passengers transiting through the Philippines should ensure they meet all Philippine arrival requirements. Flight cancellations or delays have resulted in transit passengers who do not meet arrival requirements, having to remain inside the airport, sometimes for many days. 

Airside transfer is not permitted between Terminal 3 and Terminal 1 or 2 of NAIA. All travellers transiting to or from Terminal 3 must pass through Immigration and meet all Philippine arrival requirements. You should allow plenty of time for arrival formalities and check-in for your next flight.

If you're denied entry, the Australian Embassy is not able to intervene in any decisions made by the Bureau of Immigration.

You should discuss options for transit with your airline or travel agent.

More information:

• COVID-19 (Department of Health and Aged Care)
• COVID-19: Global Health Advisory
• COVID-19: Australia's biosecurity and border controls

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Renewing

If you need to renew or replace your passport, please contact the Australian Embassy directly for advice about how we can assist you.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If you lose your passport on arrival into the Philippines, before passing through Immigration, you'll be refused entry to the Philippines. You'll be sent back to your port of origin by Philippine Government and the Australian Government is unable to help.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information: 

• LGBTI travellers

The local currency is the Philippine peso (PHP). You can easily convert AUD for PHP at airports, banks, shopping centres, tourist locations, in major cities and towns.

ATMs are widely available. International credit cards are generally accepted in hotels, restaurants and higher-end shops, particularly in cities and larger towns. However, it is advisable to keep some cash. Card skimming occurs. 

Follow the Philippine Department of Tourism for the latest advice on COVID-19 regulations. You should ensure you understand the requirements and restrictions where you're staying. 

Travelling in the Philippines takes longer than it does in Australia. 

Driving permit

You can use an Australian driver's licence for up to 90 days after you arrive. After that, you need to get a Philippines licence.

More information:

• Land Transportation Office

Road travel

Roads are generally congested and often in poor condition. Drivers often break the road rules.

Avoid driving off the national highways and other sealed roads, especially at night.

You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in the Philippines than in Australia.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Certified helmets are mandatory when riding in major cities. Accidents are frequent.

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike and if any exclusions apply. You might not be covered if you don't have a valid Australian motorcycle licence.

Taxis

Be careful if using taxis and remain alert. Some taxis are unroadworthy or may be unsafe due to poor maintenance. There have been cases where drivers and their accomplices have robbed or harmed passengers. Avoid displaying money or jewellery in taxis. 

Use ridesharing apps and Grab taxis (the equivalent of Uber) or hire cars sourced from hotels as a preference. They're more reliable than taxis hailed on the street.

Public transport

Public road (bus, jeepneys) and rail transport is widely used throughout the country but should be avoided due to safety and security. See Safety.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Sea travel in the Philippines can be hazardous.

Avoid ferries if you can.

If you must travel by sea:

• use a ferry service with a good reputation
• don't use ferries that are overcrowded and appear poorly maintained
• take your own lifejacket

Piracy and kidnapping occur in Philippine waters. See Safety

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check the Philippines' air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network website.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 911.

Medical emergencies

Call 911.

Police

Call 117 for the Police National Operations Center hotline.

Or contact your nearest Philippines National Police (PNP) station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, see contact details below.

Australian Embassy, Manila

Level 23
Tower 2
RCBC Plaza
6819 Ayala Avenue
Makati City, 1200, Philippines
Phone: (+63 2) 7757 8100

Fax: (+63 2) 7757 8344

Email Consular assistance: Consular.Manila@dfat.gov.au

Email Passport enquiries: MNLA.Passports@dfat.gov.au

Email Notarial enquiries: Notarials.Manila@dfat.gov.au

Website: philippines.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: Australia in the Philippines

Twitter: @AusAmbPH

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia