THE PHILIPPINES

With a friendly Mabuhay - welcome - Filipino greet guests and friends alike. The hospitality and friendliness of the Filipinos is well known, and it seems that everywhere you go you encounter a charming smile. People are one of the biggest assets of the Philippines, but these islands have far more to offer: The archipelago of the Philippines consists of 7107 islands, which are divided in three island-groups, Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao. The coast is over 18000 kilometers long; 6000 islands alone form the cluster of the Visayas, to which Cebu, Bohol and Negros belong.

Fast Facts

Capital: Metro Manila
Population: 80,000,000 (2002 est)
Climate: Average temperature in Visayas is 30C throughout the year.
March to June Summer - Hot and less humidity.
July to October Monsoon (habagat) - Some rains.
November to February Northwest monsoon (ami-han) - Coolest
Languages: Filipino is the national language. People in Visayas seaks Cebuano. English is commonly used.
Monetary Unit: The unit of currency is Peso. Exchange rate is US$1 to PHP55 (as of February, 05) Check commissions and exchange rate before changing money.
Credit Cards: Check surcharge before use.
Visitor's Visa: Most visitors from countries with diplomatic ties to the Philippines automatically receive a free 21-day visa upon landing. The passport shall be valid for days of another 6 months beyond your stay.
Departure Tax: PHP550 for international and PHP100 for domestic flights.
Immunization: Not required.
Electricity: 220 Volts, 60 cycle.
Health Reminder: Drink mineral water. Use mosquito repellant.
Embassy and Consule: Most countries with diplomatic ties to the Philippines have embassies or consulates in Manila, and some also have branches in Cebu.