A former colony of both Spain and the US, the Philippines today is an
eclectic mix of east and west. It is the second largest archipelago in
the world, with over 7,000 islands and a richly diversified marine
fauna, making it ideal for exploration both above and below the surface.
Its ancient heritage is comprised of countless civilisations,
influenced by Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Animism and many other
indigenous religions, and many of their monuments are still evident
today.
The magnificent burnt ochre pyramids of the Chocolate
Hills is second only to the inspirational rice terraces of Banaue, a
strong candidate for the eighth wonder of the world. Siquifor is home to
enchanted waterfalls and famed for its witches and magical healers,
while the Spanish called it Isla del Fuego after the red glow generated
by its firefly population. Many of the islands, such as Malapascua, have
world class diving spots, where you can swim among sharks and manta
rays and thousands of other marine species.
After cultural
invasions from all sides of the Pacific the people are warm and
cosmopolitan despite widespread poverty. The city markets are the best
places to meet Filipinos, who are always prepared for a friendly
conversation even if you don’t buy their wares. Friendship and
hospitality are important in this country; values that translate into
business, where your host will be eager to keep you entertained. It is
all but impossible to visit these enchanting isles without coming to
love the people who inhabit them.
Getting there
International airports at Manila and Cebu
City are the main entry points, though there is also an airport at
Davao. Sea travel is possible from Malaysia and Indonesia.
Getting
around
The domestic air network has reasonable coverage, but
bus and boat are the mainstays of public transport and cover most
populated regions of the Philippines. Buses in some areas are targeted
for armed assault and robbery, however, so be careful where you travel.
Driving is not recommended.
Local
information
Language(s): Filipino,
English. Spanish and Arabic are also spoken.
Time: UTC+8
Climate: Tropical monsoon. Hot all
year, monsoon from May-November. Temperature: Max 34°C (April), Min
21°C (January). Rainfall: Max 440mm (August), Min 10mm (February)
Currency: Peso (PHP)
Business etiquette: Business suits are
required. Business relationships are personal; third party introduction
is beneficial and relationships can take time to establish. Try to get
agreements in writing to avoid misinterpretation. It is important to
remain for social conversation at the end of a meeting.
Tipping: Tip according to preference.
Duty free: 400 cigarettes or 50
cigars or 250g of tobacco; 2l of alcoholic beverage.
Safety: Avoid travel on public buses
and use taxis sourced from hotels.
Laws:
Mandatory jail sentences for drug offences. It is illegal to
take photographs of official buildings.
Healthcare: Vaccinations required for diphtheria,
hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, typhoid and tuberculosis. Most
hospitals are private; health insurance is essential.
Socket type: Type A, Type C.
