General Information

1.   Visa Information

Nationals from ASEAN member countries are allowed to enter the Philippines without visas for a stay not exceeding twenty-one (21) days, provided they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or next port of destination. Department regulations require that passports are valid for a period of not less than six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay. However, Immigration Officers at ports of entry may exercise their discretion to admit holders of passports valid for at least sixty (60) days beyond the intended period of stay.

2.  Weather

October in Manila is wet or monsoonal, with temperatures in Fahrenheit range from 84 degrees Fahrenheit to 87 degrees Fahrenheit. An umbrella is a necessity. The conference room where the meeting is to be held is air-conditioned with temperature maintained in the range of 21-26 degrees Celsius (70-78 degrees Fahrenheit).

3.  Foreign Exchange

Participants may bring with them into the Philippines unrestricted sums of foreign currency in the form of travellers’ cheques, drafts, letters of credit or other banking instruments, which may be exchanged for Philippine Peso. Current exchange rates range from Philippine Peso 45 - 46 to 1 US Dollar.

Participants may be required to declare the amount of travellers’ cheques or currency in their possession on arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Exchange facilities are available at the airport, hotels, and malls, normally between 8:30am to 7:00pm, Mondays thru Sundays. Banks are open between 9:00am to 3:00pm.

View latest exchange rate on the website of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Link will open in new window

4.  Internet and Email Services

Internet, e-mail and telefax services are available at the Conference venue at cost to users. Internet cafés and computer shops offering Internet, email and web-based services can be found in practically every mall and business establishment in the metropolis.

5.  Postal Services

Postal services are available at the Post and Telegraphic Office, Makati City. It is open from 0800 to 1600 hours, without lunch break, Monday to Friday, except for official holidays. Overseas telephone calls and fax transmissions can also be made from the Post and Telegraphic Office at government regulated charge rates.

6.  Medical Services

First aid and medical services are available at the Medical Centre, fourth floor, Service Building, during weekdays.

7.  Electrical System in Manila

The standard voltage in Manila is 220 VAC at 50Hz. Plugs are Type A (flat blade attachment plug) and Type C (round pin attachment plug).