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Today
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Travel warning
There's a very high threat of terrorist attacks, including in places like shopping malls and transport hubs that tourists use, as well as clashes between military and insurgent groups in the southern parts of the country.
Weather & climate
Weather in Philippines
Philippines
30°
Partly cloudy
Thu
27°
30°
Fri
27°
30°
Sat
27°
30°
Sun
27°
31°
Mon
27°
32°
Tue
28°
32°
Wed
28°
31°
SPF level in Philippines
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Philippines
What British travellers need to know
You can visit the Philippines without a visa for tourism for up to 30 days.
Your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
You must have a QR code from the free e-travel system registration completed within the 72 hours before your arrival.
You must be prepared to show proof of return or onward travel as immigration officials and airlines may ask for it.
To stay more than 30 days, you must apply for an extension while in the Philippines, as overstaying can lead to fines, detention, or deportation.
Good to know:
If your non-Filipino children aged 14 or under are travelling without either parent, you must apply for a waiver of exclusion ground for entry into the Philippines.
You cannot take in more than 50,000 Philippine pesos and must declare foreign currency worth more than 10,000 US dollars on arrival.
Safety in Philippines
Tips when travelling
Philippines is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Be alert to street crime and robbery, especially on public transport and avoid showing cash or jewellery.
Avoid all alcoholic drinks that might contain methanol, as even small amounts can be deadly and you cannot taste or smell it.
You must carry some form of identification at all times, such as a copy of your passport photo page.
Be cautious when swimming or surfing as beaches rarely have lifeguards and the seas can be extremely dangerous.
Only use taxis from reputable companies as some drivers and accomplices have robbed and harmed passengers.
Bonus tips:
Check a dive operator's credentials and ensure safety equipment is available before scuba diving.
Do not become involved with illegal drugs as possession of even a small amount results in a mandatory prison sentence.
More information
Driving in Philippines
A valid UK driving license is accepted for short visits. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
100 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Philippines drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Health in Philippines
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation. Check the policy details carefully to ensure it covers all planned activities.
It is recommended to consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Be aware of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and malaria, and take steps to avoid mosquito bites, such as using repellent and wearing long clothing. Food and waterborne diseases are also a risk, so only drink bottled or boiled water and be cautious about the food you eat. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.
Cards & payments
Card payments are accepted in major establishments in cities and tourist areas, but cash is still preferred in smaller establishments and rural areas.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +13039671096
Tipping in Philippines
Tipping is customary in the Philippines, especially for good service. While not mandatory, it's a common way to show appreciation.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill if service charge is not included. Check the bill first as some restaurants already include a service charge of 10%.
Bar/Café
Small change or 5-10% for good service.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare or 10-20 PHP is appreciated.
Hotel Porter
20-50 PHP per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
50-100 PHP per day, left at the end of the stay.
Tour Guide
100-500 PHP per day, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
Mobile & roaming
Since the UK is no longer part of the EU, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in the Philippines. Roaming can be expensive. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data access.
Local SIM
10 GB for 500 PHP (~£7)
Network coverage
4G, 5G, LTE
Electrical in Philippines
Voltage
220V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B, Type C
WiFi & internet
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in major cities and tourist areas. Coverage can be limited in rural areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
WiFi is common in urban areas. Mobile data is a viable alternative, available from local carriers. Consider purchasing a local SIM for more affordable data access.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Police
117
Ambulance
117
Fire
117
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Philippines
Country code
+63
To call the British Embassy in Manila from the UK, dial 00 63 2 8858 2200.
To call the Philippines from the UK, dial the exit code (00), followed by the country code (63), then the area code (if applicable), and finally the local number.
Languages in Philippines
UK Embassy
British Embassy Manila
12/F Taipan Place Building, 120 Tektite East Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City 1605, Metro Manila
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Warnings and insurance
15 days ago
Visa and Immigration
- Visa-free stay extended: Foreign nationals whose valid stay expired on or after 28 February 2026 can now legally remain in the Philippines without fees or penalties until 1 May 2026.
- The deadline for visa-free stay in the Philippines due to immigration leniency has been extended from 1 April 2026 to 1 May 2026.
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.