Mabuhay!
Welcome to Manila, Philippines!
Asian Tigers Mobility is privileged to assist you throughout the entire process
of your relocation to Metro Manila. We understand that you are currently going
through a stressful phase. Your Asian Tigers-Mobility consultants are committed to
tailor to you and your family’s needs to help eliminate unnecessary hassle. We are
happy to support you in every aspect of your transition – be it City Orientation, Home
Finding, School Finding, Settling-In (finding domestic help, opening a bank account
etc). You can make use instead of your precious time to enjoy this beautiful city you
now call home.
Asian Tigers Mobility has designed this guide to help you find your way around the
city and provide an overview of its culture and lifestyle.
Use this booklet in conjunction with the information in your AT Mobility Welcome Pack.
Manila is indeed a fast-growing city; establishments may have relocated and contact
details may have changed by the day, as much as we update this booklet, please use this
guide as a reference only.
Your dedicated consultants are happy to assist you with your concerns. For
further Expat, oriented services, you may refer to the material provided as part of your
Asian Tigers Mobility Welcome Kit.
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Your Contact Information
We have prepared a Contact information table. Emergency Numbers are already filled
in. Please fill in your personal details. You may cut them out and we recommend that
you carry these cards around with you.
COUNTRY:
ADDRESS:
PHONE:
HOTEL:
ADDRESS
PHONE
MY CONSULATE
MY RESIDENCE
MY INSURANCE INFORMATION
NAME:
ASIAN TIGERS MOBILITY
CONSULTANT
PHONE: +632 827 6022
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CONTACT
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Makati
Alabang
POLICE
887 4626 / 862 2611
862 2611 / 862 2721
641 0430 / 641 0436
FIRE
185150
772 3944 / 842 2201
Ortigas
641 1939 / 641 2815
Makati
Alabang
Ortigas
MERALCO
(Electricity)
MANILA
WATER CO.
MAYNILAD
(Water)
EMERGENCY
HOTLINE
DIRECORY INFORMATION
PLDT
187
GLOBE
114
CUSTOMER SERVICE
PLDT
888 8171
GLOBE
02 730 1010
SMART
888 1111
Rescue Unit Civil
Defense Operation
911 5061
Center
16-210-111
MMDA Traffic Center
1627
EMBASSY
1626
LANDLORD
911
VILLAGE
ASSOCIATION OFFICE
136
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About Metro Manila
The National Capital Region or simply Metro Manila is the metropolitan region covering
the City of Manila and its surrounding areas in the Philippines. Metro Manila comprises of 16
cities and municipalities. Its total area is 638.55 square kilometers (246.55 sq mi) with
estimated 12.88 million population (August 2015 Census).
Prime business and commercial centers in the metropolis are Makati (the country’s
premier financial center), Bonifacio Global City, Ortigas Center, Quezon City, Manila, Pasay
and Alabang. These are the areas where one will find the Philippines’ largest corporations
and the country’s major banks as well as the Philippine offices of many multinational
corporations. A host of shopping malls, serviced apartments and hotels can also be found in
these areas.
Filipino (Tagalog) is the language spoken in Manila and considered as the official
language of the Philippines. Since English has been made part of the education curriculum
of the Philippines, most Filipinos can fluently speak, write and understand English. However,
differences in pronunciation and diction may be observed. Filipino is used in mass broadcast
media, but laws, books and mediums of instruction are primarily written in English.
The Metropolis has a system of highways connecting the various cities and
municipalities. Manila, being a major city, offers various transportation options. The most
famous of these modes is the public jeepney, which has been in use since the years
immediately after World War II. Buses, air-conditioned metered taxi, and Tamaraw FX minivans are also popular forms of transportation.
Auto rickshaws (referred to as “tricycles” in the Philippines) and pedicabs are used for
traveling short distances. Trains are also a popular means of public transportation in Metro
Manila. The metropolis is served by the Manila Light Rail Transit System (LRT-1 and LRT-2),
the Manila Metro Rail Transit System (MRT-3) and the Philippine National Railways (PNR).
Metered Taxis are the most convenient and comfortable means of transportation
around Metro Manila. These are especially ideal for expatriates because it enables them to
go around quickly and easily. It is safer to hire a taxi from a hotel. You can also hail a taxi
using smartphone apps you can download such as Uber and Grab. A more popular choice
among Filipinos is the Grab app. You can also hail taxis from the street, but ensure to inform
a family member, friend, or hotel receptionist the taxi name and plate number. This is
commonly practiced in the city to ensure safety. You should make sure that the meter is
working and activated as soon as the ride starts. Fixed rates are illegal in the Philippines.
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Most taxi drivers speak basic English, making communication easy. It is also normal practice
to give drivers a small tip.
Metro Manila is also rich in history. It was colonized under the Spanish for 400 years,
and 45 years under the Americans while all the time intermingling with Chinese, Indian and
Arab traders which left the City with a colorful culture.
There are several landmarks with historical significance, most of which are located
mainly in the west. One of which is the Intramuros, the 400-year-old walled city that used to
be the seat of the government during the Spanish Colonial Era and American period.
Beyond Manila’s busy streets and crowded commercial centers are historical
monuments that relish the past and festive joints that celebrate life. Among the places to see
are Rizal Park, National Museum, Malacañang Palace, the CCP Complex, Nayong Pilipino,
Ayala Avenue in Makati City, Ortigas Center in Mandaluyong City and the Corregidor Island.
Restaurants are aplenty in these areas as well.
Metro Manila offers visitors and residents both the richness of a long history of cultural
heritage as well as the comforts and life style of a modern metropolis. Whether you are
interested in art and culture, nature, sightseeing, shopping, nightlife, or sports & fitness, you
will find that Manila has a lot to offer!
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Metro Manila’s Facts & Figures
LAND AREA
638.55 sq km
POPULATION
12.88 Million (as of August 2015 Census; ref. census.gov.ph)
CITIES
Manila, Caloocan, Las Pinas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong,
Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Pasay, Pasig, Paranaque,
Quezon City, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuela, Pateros
TIME ZONE
UTC/GMT+8.
CURRENCY
Philippine Peso (Php)
RELIGION
Generally Roman Catholic
LANGUAGE
Filipino is commonly understood and spoken, English is widely
used in business transactions and education.
CLIMATE
Is between tropical wet and dry climate and a tropical
monsoon climate. Temperature at 28-38 degrees Celsius all
year around.
Dry season is January-April; wet season from May to
December
REGULAR
HOLIDAYS
January 1 – New Year’s Day
Good Friday and Easter
April 9 – Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor)
May 1 – Labor Day
June 12 – Independence Day
Every Monday of August – National Heroes Day
November 30 – Bonifacio Day
December 25 – Christmas Day
December 30 – Rizal Da
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Getting the feel of the town
As part of AT Mobility Welcome Package, you have received various Expat
oriented English books which feature the latest on restaurants, clubs, vacation spots,
sports, family and community activities.
Local Culture
Charm, Hospitality and Friendliness are the most striking and universal traits of
Filipinos. Don’t let language and cultural differences mislead you. While locals may seem
distant at first sight, they are very friendly and welcoming to foreigners. For foreigners living
and working here, the main Filipino values to note are as follows:
a. ‘Pakikisama’ – roughly translates to smooth social interaction. Individuals will yield to the
group opinion, and will avoid saying ‘No’ and confrontation.
b. ‘Hiya’ – Shame/embarrassment – saving face at all times
c. ‘Utang na loob’ – Debt of gratitude. Lifetime social indebtedness and reciprocity
d. ‘Amor Propio’ – Self Esteem of others
e. Extended family – More than just immediate family – includes sponsors at a child’s
baptism and wedding functions (compadres).
f. Biro - Joy and Humor– Filipinos find humor in everything. It sheds light on the optimism
and positivity of Filipinos in whatever situation they are in.
g. Saying Opo/Po – usually used when speaking to elders as a sign of respect
h. Pagmano – a gesture of gently taking an elder’s hand to one’s forehead as a sign of
blessing, greeting, or respect to the elderly.
i. “Tito” and “Tita” – the younger generation are expected to address the elderly, one
generation above them: “Tito” for males and “Tita” for females. Tito and Titas literally
means Aunt and Uncle but are also commonly used to address your parent’s friends and
associates for example, as a sign of respect.
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Additionally, it is helpful to remember:
a. Filipino time/Punctuality - Filipinos have a very relaxed and flexible view of punctuality.
b. ‘Bahala Na’ - loosely translates to Que Sera Sera (whatever will be, will be). Bahala na
or come what may enable a person to meet difficulties and shortcomings with resignation
by leaving it up to the Almighty to sort things out.
c. Curiosity - Staring and asking personal questions such as age and marital status by
Filipinos are not meant to be offensive but mere expressions of curiosity and a sign of
trying to bond.
d. Traffic/Driving -Filipinos drive on the right side of the road and traffic can test one’s
patience, especially with ‘Jeepneys’ and Buses.
e. Faith and Religiosity - Philippines is approximately 92.5 percent Christian (mostly
Roman Catholic), 5.6 percent Muslim, and 1.9 percent “other” religions.
f. Karaoke - It is known to be the national pastime in the Philippines.
g. Nervous laughter and giggling - Commonly used to release tension in embarrassing
situations, but it does not mean that the matter is being treated lightly.
h. Body language:
Filipinos also tend to pucker up lips to point directions
Facial movements such as raising of eyebrows are also used by Filipinos to express either
affirmation (raising both eyebrows twice) annoyance (raising one eyebrow) or disbelief
(raising both eyebrows);
Index finger pointing to another person in anger or frustration is considered extremely rude.
If a question is not understood, an open mouth could be seen very often.
More information on Manila/ Philippine sights is available in your AT Mobility
Welcome Kit.
Your AT Mobility Consultant will be happy to provide details on recommended
reads as well as details on Cross Cultural Training Programs.
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Cultural Do’s & Don’ts
DOs
DON’Ts
Be friendly and take time to smile. Filipinos Don’t bring up any embarrassing situations
by nature are very friendly and like to say “Hi” that someone has experienced before. Keep in
to people they come across. Do reciprocate mind that no one likes being put on the spot.
the gesture to show your appreciation.
Do exert an effort to learn the language. Don’t point your finger when addressing or
Learn some basic Filipino words, greetings trying to call someone. These are
and introductions. These will be useful for you considered ill-mannered gestures.
in getting around and locals will appreciate the
effort.
Do recognize that Filipinos tend to be
indirect in getting to avoid using the word
“No” in answering know you more. questions.
Even if they mean to refuse, they will try to
think of other ways to get their message
across.
Don’t be offended by personal questions.
As much as possible, they will try to They are
asked to show interest. Feel free to ask the
same questions in return especially when
talking about family.
Do honor your “utang na loob” to others.
When someone does a good deed for you, try
to repay with kindness when you get the
chance.
Filipinos are very hospitable and will offer food
to their guests every chance they could get.
Do not refuse food that is offered
especially when they made the effort to
cook for you. At least try to have a little
something.
Do keep in mind that time is viewed flexibly Don’t insist on your own way all the time.
in the Philippines. There is less emphasis on Practicing “pakikisama” will allow you to be
strict observance of schedules. At times, easily accepted.
arriving fifteen or thirty minutes after the
arranged time for a party or dinner will still be
considered punctual
Do value light hearted conversations as If you are invited to a Filipino home for a get
Filipinos love to chit chat about anything together, do not forget to bring sweets or
ranging from the most talked about showbiz any kind of gift to show your appreciation
news up to the latest political controversies in to the family especially to those who invited
the nation. Think of them as vital investments you over.
for good business relations.
Do have a good sense of humor. Filipinos Don’t be intimate to the opposite sex
can make a joke out of anything even the most unless married. Filipinos are naturally
trying circumstances. Take time to have a conservative and have reservations about
laugh with them as a way to start building intimacy, touching, and the like.
relationships.
Do show respect. Use the words “po” and Don’t lose your temper. If you get angry they
“opo” as this is one way of showing utmost may find you threatening and be less
respect when speaking to the elderly.
sympathetic to you.
Do expect to be invited to the homes of Don’t forget that it is almost mandatory to
Filipinos at one point. Usually, Filipino exchange gifts at Christmas. But also take
families will invite you to come eat at their note that gifts are not opened in the giver’s
homes and tell you to help yourself with presence unless he or she asks you to. Simply
anything and everything found on their dinner thank the giver and set it aside.
tables. Do thank and compliment the food they
prepared.
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Leave shoes at the door. It is a common
practice for Filipinos to take off their shoes at
the door when invited in a home. Initiate taking
off shoes unless told otherwise.
Do leave a tip. Although tipping is not
institutionalized as a Filipino custom, do leave
something on the table. It has become a
practice to leave any amount as a tip to show
that they value the service rendered to them.
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Basic Filipino Phrases
Although most Filipinos speak and understand English, it will help if you learn everyday
Filipino phrases. Filipinos will appreciate the effort, and will help build good relationships.
Down below we have compiled common phrases that will be of good use for your
everyday transactions:
ENGLISH
FILIPINO TRANSLATION
Oo (OH-OH) (informal) Opo
(OH-po) (formal)
Hindi (hin-DEE) (informal)
Hindi po (formal)
Mayroon (MAY-ron) (informal, also 'Meron')
Wala (wa-LAH) (informal)
Wala po (formal)
Hindi ko alam. (informal)
Hindi kop o alam. (formal)
Hi/ Hoy (like the word ‘high’ – same as in English)
‘Hoy’ is more attention- getting and less polite
(informal)
Yes (logical)
No (logical)
Yes (to have or there are some
No (to not have or there is none)
I don’t know
Hello
How are you?
Fine, thank you.
And you
Good/ Well
What is your name
My name is
.
Nice/ pleased to meet you.
Thank you.
Thank you very much
You’re welcome.
Take care.
How old are you?
Where are you from?
Where do you live?
Where have you been?
Where are you going?
Can you accompany me to
?
Kamusta ka? (informal)
Kamusta po kayo? (formal)
Ayos naman, salamat. (Ayos nahman,
sahlahmat)
Mabuti po, salamat (formal)
Ikaw? (ee-COW) (informal)
Kayo po? (formal)
Mabuti (mah-BOO-tee)
Mabuti po (formal)
Anong pangalan mo? (informal) Ano
po ang pangalan nila? (formal)
Ako si
. Ang pangalay ko ay si
.
(literal)
***Note as shown above, markers (si/ni/kay) are
mandatory before a person’s name --- no
exceptions (other than one word answers)
Kinagagalak kong makilala ka. (informal)
Kinagagalak kop o kayong makilala (formal)
Salamat (informal)
Salamat po (formal)
Maraming salamat (informal)
Maraming salamat po (formal)
Walang anuman. (literally it is nothing)
Ingat!
Ilang taon ka na?
Taga saan ka? (Tah-gah-sah-ahn ka?)
Saan ka nakatira?
Saan ka galling (often used rhetorically)
Saan ka pupunta? (Sah-ahn-kah poo-poontah?)
Pwede mo ba akong samahan sa
?
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Can you take me to
_
What is your work?
?
What are you doing?
Where do you go to school?
I’m sorry.
Goodbye
Goodbye (informal)
I can’t speak (insert name of language)
[well]/
Help!
Look out!
Good morning. (lit. ‘beautiful morning’)
Good morning.
Good day
Good afternoon
Good evening
I don’t understand
Where is the bathroom/ washroom?
What time is it?
Do you understand English?
Do you speak English?
Yes, I speak/ understand a little.
I don’t understand Tagalog.
Is there someone here who speaks
English?
Who is he/ she?
What is she/ he saying?
What do you mean?
Please say it again/ pardon.
Please write it down
Let’s go!
Wait!
Can I speak to _? (on the phone)
One moment
Who?
What?
Why?
Where?
When?
How?
Pwede mo ba ako dalhin sa
?
Anong trabaho mo?
Ano ang ginagawa mo? (ano ang ge-nah-gahWAH-mo)
Saang eskwela ka nag- aaral?
Paumanhin/ Sorry.
Paalam.
Bye.
Hindi ako marunong mag- (insert name of
language) [Mabuti].
Saklolo! (SAHK-lolo!) or Tulong! (TOO-LONG)
Look out!
Magandang umaga (ma-GAHN-dang oo-MAH- ga)
(informal)
Magandang umaga po (ma-GAHN-dang ooMAH-ga po) (formal)
Magandang araw (ma-GAHN-dang AH-row)
Magandang hapon (ma-GAHN-dang HA-pon)
Magandang gabi (ma- GAHN-dang gah-Bi)
Hindi ko maintindihan
Nasaan ang C.R.?
Anong oras na?
Nakakaintindi ka ba ng Ingles?
Nakakapagsalita ka ba ng Ingles?
Marunong ka ba mag- Ingles?
Oo, kaunti lang.
Hindi ako nakakaintindi ng Tagalog.
Meron ba ditong marunong mag- Ingles?
Sino siya?
Anong sinasabi niya?
Ano ibig mo sabihin?
Pakiulit.
Pakisulat/
Tara! (very informal) Halika na (semi- formal)
Teka!
Pwedeng makausap si
?
Sandali lang
Sino?
Ano?
Bakit?
Saan? (SAH-ahn)
Kailan?
Paano? (PAH-ahno)
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Getting Around
Private Car
Requirements of getting a local driving license:
1. Original and one photocopy of valid foreign license. If the foreign driver’s license
is not in English, the applicant should submit an official English translation from the
local embassy of the issuing country.
2. Original copy of valid passport showing the latest date of arrival in the
Philippines of the foreign applicant.
3. Original and machine copy of valid visa or alien certificate of registration (ACR)
if the foreign applicant temporarily resides in the Philippines.
4. Original copy of medical certificate with official receipt issued by an
LTO accredited or government Physician.
5. Negative drug test result issued by DOH accredited drug testing center or
government hospitals
6. Duly accomplished application for driver’s license (ADL). (Download
via: http://www.gov.ph/downloads/2014/06jun/DOTC-LTO-Form-21.pdf)
7. Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN), if employed, (In compliance to
Executive Order 98 & MC ACL-2009-1251)
***Your AT Mobility Consultant will be happy to help you arrange a car and driver if
needed. If you are planning to drive, your consultant can guide you through the
process of obtaining a Philippine driving license.
Public Transport
JEEPNEY
Sometimes called simply jeeps, are the
most
popular
means
of
public
transportation in the country. They are
known for their crowded seating and kitsch
decorations, which have become a
ubiquitous symbol of Philippine culture
and art. Jeepneys have fixed routes
around the sub-urbs of Metro Manila.
Minimu fare is Php 7.00
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AIRPORT TAXI
Please note that Airport Taxis have a higher
rate (Flagdown: Php 70.00) than regular taxis
(Flagdown: Php 40.00) and are color coded
YELLOW.
REGULAR TAXI
Flagdown: Php 40.00 ; Primarily white ; Also
cater to commuter apps such as Grab (identify
by the Grab Sticker) Drivers generally do
speak English. PhP 3.50 per kilometer is
charged for the succeeding kilometers.
This is especially recommended for expatriates
to ensure comfort and safety.
LRT (Light Rail Transit)
An Automated Fare Collection System
(AFCS) using plastic magnetic tickets
(BEEP CARD) as fare medium is being
utilized in both the LRT Line 1 and LRT Line
2 Systems. You can purchase and load the
card at their respective station. Minimum
fare is Php12.00
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MRT (Metro Rail Transit)
is a rapid transit system of Metro Manila,
and is composed of a single line that runs in
the general direction along the north and
south lanes of Epifanio de los Santos
Avenue (EDSA). It uses a distance-based
fare structure, with fares ranging from Php
13.00-28.00 (29 to 63 U.S. cents). And a
plastic magnetic card (BEEP) as a fare
medium.
TRICYCLE
Can accommodate 2-9 people depending on
style. Fares range from Php 6.00 to Php
250.00 ; Mode of transportation commonly
used when travelling short distances.
MULTICAB
Is a light truck that is similar to jeepney, but
cleaner and less noisier engine. It also has
fixed routes, and can accommodate up to 11
people. These cabs can be seen in narrow
streets and suburban areas.
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Commuter Apps
Uber – whether you’re headed to work, the airport, or out on the town, Uber connects
you with a reliable ride in minutes. One tap and a car comes directly to you. You can
pay with either cash or card.
Uber app is FREE to download on:
-
iPhone (iOS 7 or newer)
-
Android (Jelly Bean or newer)
-
Blackberry ( BB OS 7 only)
-
Windows Phone 8
To use Uber from another device, visit the link: uber.com/app
Grab – Grab is a smartphone-based taxi booking and dispatching service. Grab
offers a wide range of services through one mobile app:
-
GrabTaxi: Book a budget or premium taxi from Southeast Asia’s largest
network of drivers
-
GrabCar: Ride in comfort in a private car and pay a fixed fare that is
agreed upfront.
-
GrabBike: Get around the city in simply the quickest way possible.
-
GrabExpress: Send your parcels and documents with a delivery service
you can trust.
-
GrabShare: Hitch a ride or give someone a lift with or carpooling community.
***Please note that when hailing a Grab Taxi, there is a booking fee of Php 70.00 in
addition to the meter reading.
Download the GrabTaxi iOS app in App Store, Android app in Google Play Store for FREE.
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Medical Care
Metro Manila has world class medical professionals and facilities
ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL CENTER, BONIFACIO GLOBAL CITY
Rizal Drive corner 32nd Street, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Metro Manila
(632) 789-7700
**** Transferees may also contact: International SOS Hotline 6870909
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MAKATI MEDICAL CENTER
No. 2, Amorsolo St., Legaspi Village,
Makati City, Makati, 1229 Metro Manila
+632.8888.999
THE ASIAN HOSPITAL
2205 Civic Dr, Alabang, Muntinlupa,
1780 Metro Manila (02) 771 9000
***Transferees may also contact: International SOS Hotline 6870909
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THE MEDICAL CITY
Ortigas Ave, Pasig, Metro Manila
(02) 635 6789
ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL CENTER, QUEZON CITY
Kalusugan, New Manila,
Quezon City, Metro Manila (02) 723 0101
***Transferees may also contact: International SOS Hotline 6870909
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Expat Housing in Bonifacio Global City, Makati, Pasig, Alabang
From condominiums to homes in gated communities, Metro Manila has plenty to
offer when it comes to expat housing. Located in key expat –preferred areas – Bonifacio
Global City, Makati, Pasig, and Alabang, condominiums available locally come either
furnished, fully equipped with all kitchen appliances and utensils as well as entertainment
appliances or semi-furnished. If you are keen to live a Western-like suburban life, the three
locations (Makati, Pasig, and Alabang) have gated villages. It features detached and semidetached houses. These condos and village are either near or within the commercial
business districts so specialty stores/supermarkets selling international goods, fitness
centers, entertainment centers, etc. are easily accessible.
International Schools
As in every search, it is very useful to narrow your preferences. Think for example
what makes a school appealing to you and your children and what is acceptable and what is
not when it comes to your children’s education. Curriculum details, medium of instruction,
extra-curricular activities, school’s facilities, percentage of English native speakers in the
classroom, whether the school is new or has some tradition, and school’s fees are all very
important points you want to consider. Additionally, it is also important to consider the
prospective school’s location in conjunction with your new home’s location.
As part of the Welcoming Pack that Asian Tigers Mobility has prepared for you, you
will find a list of international schools each with detailed information. This should help you in
making a decision.
Here are some of the major international schools that cater to the expat community:
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British School Manila (BSM)
British curriculum, located at Bonifacio Global City
(Taguig)
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Brent International School Manila
American curriculum, located at Santa Rosa (Laguna)
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International School Manila (ISM)
American curriculum, located at Bonifacio Global City (Taguig)
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Furthermore, here are other international schools:

Aguinaldo International School

Benedictine International School

Chinese International School

Fountain International School High School Santolan Campus

Fountain International School Annapolis Elementary Campus

German European School Manila

Lycee Francais de Manille

MIT International School

Reedley International School

Singapore School Manila

Southville International School and Colleges

Temple Hill International School

The King’s School Manila

United Campus of Mahatma Gandhi International School and the Australian
International School
General Tips
Just like how it is when you travel to any other country, there are several Do’s and Don’ts
that you must follow if you want your journey to the Philippines to be fun and hassle- free.
DO’S:
Do make sure that you always have your passport, ticket and other identification
documents with you when you’re traveling in the Philippines because you never know just
when you need it.
Do ask if there’s a curfew implemented in the city you are staying. There are some cities
in the Philippines who still enforce curfews on its people to ensure peace and order.
Do hire a car that you can drive, or hire a driver. Traffic is heavy and slow in most parts of
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, and it would be more comfortable and easier for you to
kill time in the comfort of your own car.
Do make sure that you exchange your currency with that of the Philippines (PHP) as
there are only a few shops and establishments who accept foreign currency as payment.
There are a lot of money exchange establishments all over the city so no need to worry that
you’d have a hard time exchanging currencies.
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Do follow designated pedestrian crossing and jeepney stops (a jeepney is the most
popular mode of transportation in the country and looks like the longer version of a jeep). There
may be a lot of locals who dare violate those traffic and pedestrian rules but it will help you stay
out of hassle if you abide by these rules.
DON’TS:
Don’t bring large amount of cash or wear expensive pieces of jewelry when
commuting. This will keep you from being an easy prey of con artists that are out to
deceive and victimize foreigners and locals alike.
Do avoid traveling during rush hours. Especially if your route uses a major
thoroughfare like EDSA, commuting during rush hours is not a good idea. These hours
are from 7am-10am and
4pm-8pm, when students and workers go to work and school and come home.
Avoid or limit commuting during rainy days. Manila is soaked in floodwater sometime
within the year. If it’s been raining heavily all day, chances are the traffic has built up.
Ergo, not a great time to hit the road. Of course, there are exceptions. But to be on the
safe (and dry) side, wait it out.
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Moving Checklist
We have put together a checklist to help you prepare your move. You will find a list of
recommended things to bring as well as a list of what you are advised not to
bring to Manila.
DO BRING:
Documents & records
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Passport/Travel Document valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay in the
Philippines
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Proof of bona fide status as a tourist or businessman
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Original Birth certificates
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Original Marriage certificates, Divorce Certificate
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Diploma, school certificates & school records if you are relocating with school age children

Copy of employment contract
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Bank records
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Driver’s license
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Vaccination certificates
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Insurance information
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Medical and dental records
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Inventory of everything shipped

Tax returns
If you are relocating with pets:
A valid health certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian in the country of
origin, which indicates that the pet has been examined and is free from
communicable diseases at least ten (10) days before the travel to the Philippines. If
the country of origin is not free from rabies, a certification that there has been no
rabies cases within a 20 kilometer radius of the pet’s home in the last six (6) months.
A vaccination card showing the pet’s vaccination for rabies, canine distemper,
infectious hepatitis, leptospirosis, canine parvovirus, or feline pan leucopenia and
proof that the animal was treated for internal and external parasites.
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Health related
Over the counter drugs are available in pharmacies or drug stores in the country. However,
if visitors insist on bringing their own prescriptive drugs, they may do so but only in
quantities sufficient for the duration of their stay in the country.
Visitors taking prescription drugs (tablets and ampoules) should bring a letter from
their physician stating the condition for which they are receiving treatment and the dosage.
The amount of drugs brought into the country should also be sufficient for the duration of
the visit. For those who are traveling onward to another country, they are advised that
separate quantity of drugs should be sealed and declared again before exiting the country.
First aid kit, allergy & emergency medication
***If you’re coming from an area where yellow fever has been reported, you’ll need
a certificate of vaccination. For more information, visit: http://www.doh.gov.ph/
Personal items
Consider bringing cosmetics, deodorant & skin products (in case drugstores in the
Philippine don’t carry your preferred brand)
Special dietary needs
DO NOT BRING
The following are the list of items that shouldn’t be in any of your baggage, whether it
be hand-carry or check- in (ref.: Philippine Memorandum Circular 15- 02):
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Air guns
Ammunition shells or bullets
Bolt guns
Components of guns and firearms
Compressed air guns
Firearms
Flare guns
Harpoon guns
Nail guns
Pellet guns
Pistols
Replicas or imitation firearms
Revolvers
Rifles
Shotguns
Spear guns
Sport-related firearms
Tear gas
All types of explosives and incendiary substances and devices
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Thank you very much for allowing Asian Tigers Mobility
Philippines a part of your relocation to Manila. We hope that this
Manila Destination Guide was able to give you an overview of what
to expect upon your arrival to Metro Manila, Philippines. Please
refer to this booklet from time to time to help you easily adapt to
the country’s lifestyle, people and culture.
Let us know how else we can help you. It is guaranteed that your
Asian Tigers Mobility Consultants will gladly tailor to your needs.
Thank you and Mabuhay!
Welcome to the Philippines!
We wish you a rich and rewarding adventure in this city you now
call home.
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