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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.

MY CONSULATE

COUNTRY:

ADDRESS:

PHONE:

MY RESIDENCE

HOTEL:

ADDRESS

PHONE

MY INSURANCE INFORMATION

ASIAN TIGERS MOBILITY CONSULTANT

NAME:

PHONE: +632 827 6022

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CONTACT

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

POLICE DIRECORY INFORMATION

Makati 887 4626 / 862 2611 PLDT 187

Alabang 862 2611 / 862 2721 GLOBE 114

Ortigas 641 0430 / 641 0436 CUSTOMER SERVICE

FIRE PLDT 888 8171

Makati 185150 GLOBE 02 730 1010

Alabang 772 3944 / 842 2201 SMART 888 1111

Ortigas 641 1939 / 641 2815 Rescue Unit Civil

Defense Operation Center

911 5061

MERALCO (Electricity)

16-210-111 MMDA Traffic Center 136

MANILA WATER CO.

1627 EMBASSY

MAYNILAD (Water)

1626 LANDLORD

EMERGENCY HOTLINE

911 VILLAGE

ASSOCIATION OFFICE

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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 mini-

vans 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

POPULATION

CITIES

TIME ZONE

CURRENCY

RELIGION

LANGUAGE

CLIMATE

REGULAR HOLIDAYS

638.55 sq km

12.88 Million (as of August 2015 Census; ref. census.gov.ph)

Manila, Caloocan, Las Pinas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong,

Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Pasay, Pasig, Paranaque,

Quezon City, San Juan, Taguig, Valenzuela, Pateros

UTC/GMT+8.

Philippine Peso (Php)

Generally Roman Catholic

Filipino is commonly understood and spoken, English is widely

used in business transactions and education.

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

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 by nature are very friendly and like to say “Hi” to people they come across. Do reciprocate the gesture to show your appreciation.

Don’t bring up any embarrassing situations that someone has experienced before. Keep in mind that no one likes being put on the spot.

Do exert an effort to learn the language. Learn some basic Filipino words, greetings and introductions. These will be useful for you in getting around and locals will appreciate the effort.

Don’t point your finger when addressing or trying to call someone. These are considered ill-mannered gestures.

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 in the Philippines. There is less emphasis on strict observance of schedules. At times, arriving fifteen or thirty minutes after the arranged time for a party or dinner will still be considered punctual

Don’t insist on your own way all the time. Practicing “pakikisama” will allow you to be easily accepted.

Do value light hearted conversations as Filipinos love to chit chat about anything ranging from the most talked about showbiz news up to the latest political controversies in the nation. Think of them as vital investments for good business relations.

If you are invited to a Filipino home for a get together, do not forget to bring sweets or any kind of gift to show your appreciation to the family especially to those who invited you over.

Do have a good sense of humor. Filipinos can make a joke out of anything even the most trying circumstances. Take time to have a laugh with them as a way to start building relationships.

Don’t be intimate to the opposite sex unless married. Filipinos are naturally conservative and have reservations about intimacy, touching, and the like.

Do show respect. Use the words “po” and “opo” as this is one way of showing utmost respect when speaking to the elderly.

Don’t lose your temper. If you get angry they may find you threatening and be less sympathetic to you.

Do expect to be invited to the homes of Filipinos at one point. Usually, Filipino families will invite you to come eat at their homes and tell you to help yourself with anything and everything found on their dinner tables. Do thank and compliment the food they prepared.

Don’t forget that it is almost mandatory to exchange gifts at Christmas. But also take note that gifts are not opened in the giver’s presence unless he or she asks you to. Simply thank the giver and set it aside.

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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

Yes (logical) Oo (OH-OH) (informal) Opo (OH-po) (formal)

No (logical) Hindi (hin-DEE) (informal)

Hindi po (formal)

Yes (to have or there are some Mayroon (MAY-ron) (informal, also 'Meron')

No (to not have or there is none) Wala (wa-LAH) (informal)

Wala po (formal)

I don’t know Hindi ko alam. (informal)

Hindi kop o alam. (formal)

Hello

Hi/ Hoy (like the word ‘high’ – same as in English) ‘Hoy’ is more attention- getting and less polite

(informal)

How are you? Kamusta ka? (informal)

Kamusta po kayo? (formal)

Fine, thank you. Ayos naman, salamat. (Ayos nahman,

sahlahmat) Mabuti po, salamat (formal)

And you Ikaw? (ee-COW) (informal)

Kayo po? (formal)

Good/ Well Mabuti (mah-BOO-tee)

Mabuti po (formal)

What is your name Anong pangalan mo? (informal) Ano

po ang pangalan nila? (formal)

My name is . 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)

Nice/ pleased to meet you. Kinagagalak kong makilala ka. (informal)

Kinagagalak kop o kayong makilala (formal)

Thank you. Salamat (informal)

Salamat po (formal)

Thank you very much Maraming salamat (informal)

Maraming salamat po (formal)

You’re welcome. Walang anuman. (literally it is nothing)

Take care. Ingat!

How old are you? Ilang taon ka na?

Where are you from? Taga saan ka? (Tah-gah-sah-ahn ka?)

Where do you live? Saan ka nakatira?

Where have you been? Saan ka galling (often used rhetorically)

Where are you going? Saan ka pupunta? (Sah-ahn-kah poo-poon-

tah?)

Can you accompany me to ? Pwede mo ba akong samahan sa ?

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Can you take me to _ ? Pwede mo ba ako dalhin sa ?

What is your work? Anong trabaho mo?

What are you doing?

Ano ang ginagawa mo? (ano ang ge-nah-gah- WAH-mo)

Where do you go to school? Saang eskwela ka nag- aaral?

I’m sorry. Paumanhin/ Sorry.

Goodbye Paalam.

Goodbye (informal) Bye.

I can’t speak (insert name of language) [well]/

Hindi ako marunong mag- (insert name of language) [Mabuti].

Help! Saklolo! (SAHK-lolo!) or Tulong! (TOO-LONG)

Look out! Look out!

Good morning. (lit. ‘beautiful morning’) Magandang umaga (ma-GAHN-dang oo-MAH- ga)

(informal)

Good morning. Magandang umaga po (ma-GAHN-dang oo-

MAH-ga po) (formal)

Good day Magandang araw (ma-GAHN-dang AH-row)

Good afternoon Magandang hapon (ma-GAHN-dang HA-pon)

Good evening Magandang gabi (ma- GAHN-dang gah-Bi)

I don’t understand Hindi ko maintindihan

Where is the bathroom/ washroom? Nasaan ang C.R.?

What time is it? Anong oras na?

Do you understand English? Nakakaintindi ka ba ng Ingles?

Do you speak English? Nakakapagsalita ka ba ng Ingles?

Marunong ka ba mag- Ingles?

Yes, I speak/ understand a little. Oo, kaunti lang.

I don’t understand Tagalog. Hindi ako nakakaintindi ng Tagalog.

Is there someone here who speaks English?

Meron ba ditong marunong mag- Ingles?

Who is he/ she? Sino siya?

What is she/ he saying? Anong sinasabi niya?

What do you mean? Ano ibig mo sabihin?

Please say it again/ pardon. Pakiulit.

Please write it down Pakisulat/

Let’s go! Tara! (very informal) Halika na (semi- formal)

Wait! Teka!

Can I speak to _? (on the phone) Pwedeng makausap si ?

One moment Sandali lang

Who? Sino?

What? Ano?

Why? Bakit?

Where? Saan? (SAH-ahn)

When? Kailan?

How? 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 semi-

detached 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

Passport/Travel Document valid for at least six (6) months beyond the intended period of stay in the

Philippines

Proof of bona fide status as a tourist or businessman

Original Birth certificates

Original Marriage certificates, Divorce Certificate

Diploma, school certificates & school records if you are relocating with school age children

Copy of employment contract

Bank records

Driver’s license

Vaccination certificates

Insurance information

Medical and dental records

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):

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.