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Print Version
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TRAVEL REPORT
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Last Updated: December 8, 2006 9:15
EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 22:00
EST
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1. INTRODUCTION
The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed. Section 2 has been updated.
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2. ATTENTION
Please see our Current Issues page for information on Typhoon Durian.
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)
Canadians are advised against all travel to Cebu. Credible reports indicate that terrorists may be in the final preparation stages to launch an attack in Cebu. Canadians travelling or residing in the area should exercise extreme caution and maintain a high level of personal security awareness. Due to a heightened police presence, Canadians can expect road closures and delays. Canadians are reminded to avoid large crowds and demonstrations.
You are advised against all travel to the Sulu archipelago, Zamboanga peninsula, and areas in west and southwest Mindanao. You are also advised against all travel to the other areas of Mindanao unless you have critical or compelling business or family reasons.
Continuing reports suggest that there is an ongoing terrorist threat to Westerners and Western interests in the Philippines. Philippine authorities have warned that there may be bomb attacks in Manila and other key cities. Security has been increased in Manila and other cities.
Attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in the Philippines. Canadians in the Philippines should exercise extreme caution and security awareness, especially in commercial and public establishments, in tourist areas frequented by foreigners, and on public transportation.
Bombings and crime-related shootings have occurred in Mindanao, Manila and other parts of the country, and explosive devices continue to be discovered by security authorities.
Recent political developments in the Philippines have increased the frequency of anti-government protests and demonstrations, particularly in Manila. Canadians are advised to avoid large public gatherings.
Canadians should be vigilant and comply with all security procedures. Anything suspicious should be reported immediately to the nearest security authority.
OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to the region(s) specified despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting other areas of the country for three months or more should also register. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).
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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY
Attacks continue to occur in Manila, the region of Mindanao, and other areas where insurgent groups are active. Bombs have exploded in shopping malls, on public transportation, at airports and port facilities, in places of worship, and in other public areas. Further explosions are possible anywhere in the country.
Canadians should be alert to the danger of kidnapping in the Philippines. Although government action has reduced the frequency, there remain reports of planned kidnap-for-ransom of business people. Kidnappings have occurred throughout the country, including in Manila and several resort areas, and deaths have resulted in some cases. Canadians should be cautious when travelling to, and around, coastal areas and island resorts.
Crime continues to be a serious concern, especially in Manila. Avoid displays of affluence such as jewellery. Do not carry large sums of money, and keep valuables in safekeeping facilities. Criminal gangs are active in Manila, including the Makati central business district, and have drugged and robbed unsuspecting tourists. Visitors should not accept offers of food, drink, or transportation from strangers, and should not leave food or drinks unattended, particularly in bars. Bystanders have been hit by stray gunfire in armed robberies and subsequent pursuit of the perpetrators. Avoid disturbances, rallies and demonstrations.
Canadians should exercise caution when using public transportation, including buses and the light rail system, due to safety and security concerns. Incidents of taxi drivers using threats to extort money from passengers have been reported. Visitors should arrange to be met at airports, use hotel transportation, or use the taxi booking services in arrival halls. Use officially marked taxis only and do not share them with strangers. Ferry incidents are not uncommon in the Philippines due to the overloading and poor maintenance of some vessels. Caution and common sense should be exercised when using marine transportation in the Philippines - do not board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships in Southeast Asia occur. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy Report published by the Commercial Crime Services division of the International Chamber of Commerce.
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4. LOCAL TRAVEL
Driving conditions are poor. Roads are crowded and drivers are undisciplined. Avoid travel outside urban areas and tourist centres after dark. Stay on national highways and paved roads.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
The Philippines is subject to earthquakes and volcanic activity. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Embassy of Canada in Manila (see below) in the event of an emergency.
Volcanic activity at the Mount Mayon Volcano in Albay Province, south east Luzon has decreased (alert level 1). A Permanent Danger Zone of six kilometres is in place around the summit of the volcano.
In July 2006, the alert status of the Bulusan volcano, located in the province of Sorsogon on the island of Luzon was lowered to Alert level 1. The alert status strictly restricts entry within four (4) kilometres, called the "Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ)," of the summit area, because sudden explosions may occur. Canadians in the area should pay careful attention to all warnings issued, avoid restricted areas and follow the advice of local authorities in the event of an eruption. You should avoid the areas surrounding both volcanoes, as sudden explosions may occur.
Updated information on volcanoes in the Philippines is available from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) Web site at http://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/ .
The monsoon season extends from November to April in the northeast and May to October in the southwest. Severe rainstorms can cause flooding and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged. Typhoons also occur. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.
Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.
The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.
The penalty for drug offences is very strict. Convicted offenders face life imprisonment or even the death sentence for certain drug-related crimes. The death penalty is often imposed for rape. Pedophiliac activity is also severely punished. Conviction for "swindling" or "bad debts" can result in sentences of up to 20 years.
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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:
Philippines - MANILA, Embassy of Canada
Address: 6th, 7th, and 8th Floors, RCBC Plaza Tower 2, 6819 Ayala Avenue, Salcedo Village, Makati City, Manila, Philippines
Postal Address: P.O. Box 2168, Makati City 1220, 1261 Makati, Philippines
Tel.: 63 (2) 857-9000, 857-9001
Fax: 63 (2) 843-1082
E-mail: manil@international.gc.ca, manil-cs@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.manila.gc.ca
Philippines - CEBU, Consulate of Canada
Address: 45-L Andres Abellana Street, Cebu City 6000, Philippines
Tel.: 63 (32) 256-3320
Fax: 63 (32) 255-3068
E-mail: canada-consulate-cebu@mozcom.com
For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Manila and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 1 800 1-110-0226 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.
Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from the Philippines is 105-10, where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1 800 561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.
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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the authorities of the Philippines and, to the best of our knowledge, was valid on March 9, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.
It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.
Foreign Affairs Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines and its consulates, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.
A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit the Philippines. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into the country. Canadians must also be in possession of an onward or return ticket. Tourist visas are issued upon arrival for stays up to 21 days. Canadians intending to stay for more than 21 days must apply for a visa at the Embassy of the Philippines in Canada. Alternatively, they may apply for an extension at the Philippine Bureau of Immigration and Deportation while in the country.
If you will be staying in the Philippines as a registered alien, you and your dependents will need to apply for an ACR I-Card. Failure to obtain the ACR I-Card will result in fines. More information on this card and other immigration issues is available on the Philippines Bureau of Immigration Web site.
The Philippine government is vigorously enforcing immigration and entry laws. For this reason, all Canadians travelling to the Philippines should ensure they have the proper and valid visa. Canadians have been apprehended for having improper visas or violating immigration laws. Offenders can expect jail sentences, fines, and/or deportation and may also be prohibited from entering the Philippines in the future.
Canadian Filipinos do not require visitor visas if they travel with a Canadian passport. They are issued a "balikbayan" (returning residence) visa valid for one year upon arrival in the Philippines. Canadian citizens married to Filipinos are not required to obtain a visitor visa for stays of up to one year but must travel (and stay in the country) with the spouse. They too are issued a balikbayan visa upon arrival. If the Filipino spouse leaves the country, the Canadian citizen must go to the Philippines immigration office to obtain a visa. A Canadian passport and marriage certificate are both required if the spouses do not bear the same family name. Balikbayan visas are free.
Children under 15, unaccompanied by a parent or coming to meet a parent or parents in the Philippines, must present the following documents to the Bureau of Immigration (unless there are legal impediments) upon arrival in the Philippines: (a) Affidavit of Request, Consent, and Guarantee signed by a parent or legally appointed guardian of the child, naming the person who will be accompanying the child to the Philippines and with whom the child will reside in the country; (b) birth certificate of the child; and (c) clear photocopy of the data page of the child's passport. The Office of the Commissioner will hold the child's passport until a Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) is secured and the fee is paid. The current fee for the WEG is 3,210 Philippines pesos. The WEG will be issued at the airport on the same day, provided all the requirements have been met. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in admission status being cancelled and names being included on the Bureau's blacklist. If the child has a valid visa issued by the Embassy of the Philippines in Canada, the requirements for the WEG would have been met already and this would not apply.
Tourist Visa: Required (for stays over 21 days)
Business Visa: Required (for stays over 21 days)
Student Visa: Required
Working Visa: Required
A tax of 550 pesos (payable in local currency or in U.S. dollars, in cash only) is required upon departure from the international airport in Manila.___________________________________________
Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.
Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.
Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.
Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.
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9. MONEY
The currency is the Philippine peso. Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments. Credit card fraud is common. Users should pay careful attention when their cards are being handled by others during payment processing. Only U.S. dollar traveller's cheques can be exchanged in banks, hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available in larger cities.
Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.
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10. GENERAL INFORMATION
The Philippines (capital: Manila) is an archipelago located in Southeast Asia between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam. The official languages are Filipino (based on Tagalog) and English. Tourist facilities are available in major areas.
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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.
The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.
Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.
The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.
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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
Good medical care is available in Manila, Cebu and Baguio. Medical care is limited in rural and more remote areas. Most hospitals will require a down payment of estimated fees at the time of admission.
Over-the-counter medicines are available in the Philippines. Travellers who wish to bring their own may do so, but only in quantities sufficient for the duration of their stay. All drugs, including non-prescription drugs such as vitamins and aspirin, should be kept in their original containers.
Travellers carrying prescription drugs should bring a letter from their physician stating the condition for which they are receiving treatment and the dosage. The amount of prescription drugs brought into the country should be sufficient for the duration of their stay. Those travelling onward to another country are advised that a separate quantity of prescription drugs should be sealed and declared again before departing the country.
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13. RETURNING TO CANADA
Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.
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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.
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15. TRAVEL TIPS
Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.
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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.
Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.
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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION
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18. ANNEX
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