FAQ

Question: Do Russian citizens need a visa to travel to the Philippines? Answer: No, a visa-free regime for up to 30 days applies to Russian citizens. Entry requires a foreign passport (valid for at least 6 months) and a return ticket.

Question: What is eTravel and is it mandatory to fill it out? Answer: This is a mandatory electronic health and customs declaration. It must be filled out online on the official website etravel.gov.ph no earlier than 72 hours before departure.

Question: Is the return ticket checked upon entry? Answer: Yes, the presence of a return ticket from the Philippines (or to a third country) is checked by airline representatives during flight registration at the departure airport.

Question: Can the stay be extended longer than 30 days? Answer: Yes, you can extend your visa at any Bureau of Immigration office in the Philippines. First for 29 days, then for 1 or 2 months, up to a total of 36 months.

Question: Is medical insurance required for entry? Answer: Officially, insurance is not a mandatory requirement for entry, but we strongly recommend obtaining it, as medical care for foreigners on the islands is expensive.

Question: What passport validity is acceptable for the trip? Answer: Your foreign passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of crossing the Philippine border.

Question: Do I need to present a hotel booking at the border? Answer: Immigration officers rarely ask to see a voucher, but we recommend having confirmation of accommodation for at least the first few days for your peace of mind.

Question: Are vaccination certificates required for tourists? Answer: At the moment, there are no mandatory vaccination requirements for entry into the Philippines.

Question: How long does border crossing usually take? Answer: On average, the procedure takes from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the airport’s workload and the queue.

Question: Can I bring a drone for filming to the Philippines? Answer: Yes, bringing a drone weighing up to 7 kg for personal non-commercial use is allowed without special registration upon entry.

Question: What is the best currency to bring to the Philippines? Answer: It is best to bring cash US dollars (new style bills issued after 2006). They have the highest exchange rate for pesos.

Question: Do Russian bank cards work in the Philippines? Answer: No, Visa, Mastercard, and MIR cards issued by Russian banks are not accepted. Cash or cards from foreign banks are necessary.

Question: Where is the most profitable place to exchange currency? Answer: The best exchange rate is usually at Terminal 3 of Manila Airport or in major shopping centers (SM, Ayala) in the cities of Cebu and Manila.

Question: Are bank cards accepted on the islands and during tours? Answer: In large hotels and shopping malls — yes. However, in markets, small shops, and during boat excursions, only Philippine pesos in cash are accepted.

Question: What is the local ATM commission for cash withdrawals? Answer: For each withdrawal, a fixed commission of 250 pesos is charged. The limit per withdrawal is usually 10,000 pesos (about $180).

Question: What is a Terminal Fee and how do I pay it? Answer: This is a fee for using a port or airport. The amount is small (from 20 to 850 pesos) and is paid only in cash pesos before boarding.

Question: Is it customary to leave tips in the Philippines? Answer: In restaurants, a Service Charge (10%) is often included. If not, it is customary to leave 5-10% of the bill. For guides and drivers — at your discretion, usually 100-200 pesos.

Question: What is the approximate daily budget for food and entertainment? Answer: On average, you should budget $50–100 per person per day for comfortable dining and minor expenses (excluding hotels and tours).

Question: Can I pay with dollars directly in stores? Answer: No, only Philippine pesos (PHP) are accepted everywhere. You will need to exchange dollars at an exchange office.

Question: Does the Chinese UnionPay system work in the Philippines? Answer: UnionPay cards from Russian banks work very inconsistently. We recommend not relying on them and having a supply of cash.

Question: Is it safe to swim with whale sharks? Answer: Absolutely. Whale sharks are giant fish that feed on plankton. They are not aggressive. Our guides will provide a full briefing before you enter the water.

Question: Where in the Philippines can you see tarsiers? Answer: These rare primates live only on the island of Bohol in special sanctuaries.

Question: What is canyoneering at Kawasan Falls? Answer: It is an active descent down a river through canyons, including jumps into the water (optional), swimming, and jungle trekking in protective gear.

Question: Do I need to know how to swim to go on excursions? Answer: Not necessarily. We provide life jackets for all water activities, and our guides are always nearby to help in the water.

Question: Is lunch included in the price of boat excursions? Answer: Yes, Werdana tours almost always include a full lunch with seafood, fruit, and drinks.

Question: Can I touch turtles or sharks while snorkeling? Answer: No, this is strictly prohibited by Philippine law and is harmful to the animals. Large fines are imposed for this.

Question: What is Island Hopping and how does it work? Answer: It is a boat tour visiting several islands in one day, with stops at beaches and the best snorkeling spots.

Question: Do you have professional Russian-speaking guides? Answer: Yes, Werdana provides Russian-speaking accompaniment so you can learn more about the culture and history of the islands without a language barrier.

Question: What should I definitely bring with me on a boat tour? Answer: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), a dry bag for your phone, a towel, and aqua shoes to protect your feet.

Question: Can I fly a drone during excursions? Answer: In most locations, it is allowed. However, El Nido (Palawan) has strict rules requiring prior permission.

Question: When is the best season for a vacation in the Philippines? Answer: From December to May — this is the dry season with the sunniest and calmest weather. It’s ideal for beaches and excursions.

Question: Is it worth visiting during the “rainy season” (June-November)? Answer: Yes, it is. Rains are usually short-lived (downpours for 30-40 minutes), after which the sun comes out again. On the plus side, there are fewer tourists and prices are lower during this time.

Question: How do I call a taxi in major cities (Manila, Cebu)? Answer: We recommend installing the Grab app. It’s the local equivalent of Uber, where the price is fixed and the ride is safe.

Question: Do I need an international license to rent a bike? Answer: Yes, an international driving permit (IDP) category A is required. Without it, you face a heavy fine during any police check or in the event of an accident.

Question: Which SIM card is best to buy for internet? Answer: Smart and Globe are the market leaders. Smart often has better reception on remote islands. You can buy a SIM card directly at the airport.

Question: What is the voltage in the sockets and do I need an adapter? Answer: The voltage is 220V. Sockets are most often flat (American types A and B). Most hotels have universal ones, but it’s better to have an adapter.

Question: Is it difficult to travel between islands? Answer: No, the logistics are well-developed. There is a network of domestic flights (Cebu Pacific) and high-speed ferries (OceanJet). We assist with ticket bookings.

Question: Is there stable Wi-Fi on the islands? Answer: Wi-Fi in hotels is often slow. For work, we recommend having a local SIM card with a 4G/5G mobile data package.

Question: Are there delays on domestic airline flights? Answer: Yes, Philippine low-cost carriers may delay flights by 1-2 hours. We recommend not planning flights “back-to-back” with international departures.

Question: What is a jeepney and is it safe to ride? Answer: These are colorful minibuses converted from jeeps. It is the cheapest transport and quite safe for short trips around the city.

Question: Can I drink tap water in the Philippines? Answer: Absolutely not. Use only bottled water even for brushing your teeth and washing your face to avoid stomach upset.

Question: Is Philippine cuisine spicy? Answer: No, Philippine cuisine is one of the mildest in Asia. It is based on rice, grilled meat, and seafood without an excess of spices.

Question: Are there many mosquitoes on the islands and are they dangerous? Answer: Yes, there are mosquitoes, especially in the jungle. We recommend using local repellents (brand “Off!”) to protect against Dengue fever.

Question: Is it safe to walk in the evenings in tourist areas? Answer: Yes, the Philippines is a Christian country with a very friendly population. It is safe to walk in tourist areas in the evening.

Question: Is it mandatory to wear aqua shoes in the sea? Answer: It is highly recommended. There may be sea urchins or sharp rocks on the bottom. Shoes will reliably protect your feet.

Question: What language do Filipinos speak? Answer: The official languages are Tagalog and English. Almost all residents involved in tourism understand and speak English very well.

Question: Can I take shells, corals, or sand home as souvenirs? Answer: No, the export of sand, corals, and unprocessed shells is strictly prohibited by law and is punishable by large fines at customs.

Question: Where is the best place to buy groceries and household items? Answer: The most popular convenience store chains are 7-Eleven and Ministop. They are open 24/7.

Question: Is smoking allowed in public places? Answer: The Philippines has strict anti-smoking laws. You can only smoke in designated smoking areas (DSA); otherwise, you face a heavy fine.

Question: Why choose Werdana to organize your tour? Answer: We live in the Philippines, know all the logistical nuances, work with the best guides, and guarantee a personalized approach and safety.

Question: How much time should be allocated for exploring Cebu Island? Answer: To visit the main locations (sharks, waterfalls, canyoneering), we recommend a minimum of 3 full days.

Question: What is the best way to get from Cebu to Bohol? Answer: The fastest way is the OceanJet high-speed ferry. The travel time is about 2 hours, and trips run several times a day.

Question: What unique things can be seen on Bohol island besides tarsiers? Answer: Be sure to visit the Chocolate Hills, take a cruise along the Loboc River, and walk through the mahogany Man-made Forest.

Question: Is it worth going to El Nido if I don’t like boats? Answer: The primary beauty of El Nido is hidden among the islands in the lagoons. Without boat tours, you will only see a small part of this sanctuary.

Question: What is the difference between Tours A, B, C, and D in El Nido? Answer: Tours A and C are the most popular (lagoons and the best beaches). Tours B and D are quieter and more secluded routes.

Question: Is it possible to see a volcanic eruption in the Philippines? Answer: The most active volcano is Mayon (Legazpi). We organize tours to its base, but an actual eruption is a rare and dangerous natural phenomenon.

Question: Where are the best white beaches located (other than Boracay)? Answer: Look into Panglao Island, the beaches of El Nido, and the secluded islands of the Calamian Archipelago (Coron).

Question: What is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River? Answer: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the longest underground rivers in the world. The excursion takes place on boats inside a massive cave.

Question: Is it possible to see both sharks and do canyoneering in one day? Answer: Yes, Werdana offers a special “Sharks + Kawasan” intensive tour, but be prepared for an early departure (around 4 AM).

Question: Is there surfing for beginners in the Philippines? Answer: Yes, Siargao Island is the world surfing capital, but there are schools for beginners on Luzon and in certain parts of Cebu as well.

Question: What fruits should I definitely try besides mango? Answer: We recommend passion fruit, papaya, rambutan, mangosteen, and for the bravest — durian.

Question: Is it safe to buy food from street vendors? Answer: We advise choosing places with long lines of locals and avoiding drinks with ice from questionable sources.

Question: What is “Balut” and is it worth trying? Answer: It is a local delicacy — a boiled duck egg with a developing embryo inside. It tastes like chicken soup, but not everyone can bring themselves to try it.

Question: Where is the best place to buy natural pearls? Answer: The largest selection and best prices are at markets in Manila or from trusted sellers on Palawan island. Always ask for a certificate.

Question: What is the best Philippine rum? Answer: The Tanduay brand is the most famous and budget-friendly. For a gift, it is better to get aged rum like Tanduay Double Gold or Don Papa.

Question: What should I bring as a gift for friends besides magnets? Answer: Dried mango (7D brand), cold-pressed coconut oil, mother-of-pearl jewelry, and acacia wood products.

Question: Are there large shopping malls in the Philippines? Answer: Yes, the SM Mall and Ayala Mall chains are massive complexes where you can find everything from global brands to food courts and cinemas.

Question: What cosmetics are valued in the Philippines? Answer: Products based on coconut and papaya (for skin brightening) and natural handmade soaps are very popular.

Question: How much does it cost to have dinner at a good restaurant? Answer: An average bill for two with drinks will be around 1,500–2,500 pesos ($25–45) depending on the level of the establishment.

Question: Can I take fruit in my carry-on luggage? Answer: In carry-on — no. You can check a basket of fruit in your luggage (except durian — its transportation is prohibited due to the smell).

Question: Are the Philippines suitable for a vacation with small children? Answer: Yes, Filipinos love children very much. We recommend choosing islands with developed infrastructure, such as Bohol or Panglao.

Question: Do hotels have kids’ clubs and nannies? Answer: Only in large 5* resorts. In smaller hotels, a nanny can be hired upon request through the reception.

Question: What baby food can be bought in stores? Answer: Supermarkets always have formulas (Nestle, Similac) and cereals. Meat purees are harder to find, so it’s better to bring a small supply with you.

Question: Is the sun dangerous for children? Answer: Very! The sun in the Philippines is active. Children should wear swimming t-shirts and have SPF 50+ cream applied even in the shade.

Question: Is it safe to take children on boat excursions? Answer: Yes, we have children’s life jackets. However, for very young children (under 2-3 years old), long boat trips can be tiring.

Question: Are there pediatricians and good hospitals on the islands? Answer: Quality medical care is available in Cebu and Manila. On small islands, there are only first aid stations, so insurance is mandatory.

Question: Are Philippine insects dangerous for children? Answer: Mosquitoes can cause the most trouble. Be sure to use children’s repellents with a natural composition.

Question: Are there many stray dogs on the beaches and are they dangerous? Answer: There are many dogs; they are used to tourists and are usually friendly, but we do not recommend children having contact with them.

Question: What footwear is best for a child at the beach? Answer: Only coral shoes (aqua shoes). This will protect against cuts from corals and stings from sea urchins.

Question: Is it safe for tourists in Manila? Answer: In tourist areas (Makati, Bonifacio) — it is very safe. In older districts (Tondo), you should exercise caution and not wear expensive jewelry.

Question: Where is the best diving in the Philippines? Answer: Top locations: Tubbataha Reef (safari), Apo Island (turtles), Moalboal (sardine run), and Coron (shipwrecks).

Question: Can I go diving without a certificate? Answer: Yes, this is called Discovery Scuba Diving. After a briefing, you will perform a shallow dive with an instructor.

Question: Where can I see the famous “sardine run”? Answer: In Moalboal (Cebu Island). A massive school of fish is located just 30 meters from the shore.

Question: Are there snakes in the Philippines and should I be afraid of them? Answer: There are snakes in the jungle and the sea, but they fear people and bite extremely rarely, only in self-defense. Guides ensure safety during excursions.

Question: Can I see whales in the Philippines? Answer: Yes, the humpback whale watching season takes place in the north (Babuyan Islands) from February to May.

Question: What dangerous fish are in the sea? Answer: Stonefish and lionfish can be found. The main rule is to touch nothing underwater and not to step on corals.

Question: Are there crocodiles in the Philippines? Answer: There are none in tourist zones. Crocodiles live only in wild marshy areas in southern Palawan and Mindanao.

Question: Why is it forbidden to export “Tridacna” shells? Answer: It is an endangered species protected by law. Attempting to export such a shell results in a huge fine and even a prison sentence.

Question: What should I do if a jellyfish stings me while snorkeling? Answer: Do not rinse with fresh water! Pour ordinary vinegar on the sting (guides always have it on boats) and consult a doctor if an allergy occurs.

Question: Are Philippine monkeys (macaques) dangerous? Answer: They can be aggressive and try to steal food or phones. Do not feed them by hand and hold your belongings tightly.

Question: How many days in advance should I book tours? Answer: We recommend booking tours 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (New Year, Chinese New Year, and Easter).

Question: How does payment for Werdana tours work? Answer: We accept payment in cash (pesos/dollars) or by bank transfer (depending on the specific tour).

Question: Do you organize individual VIP tours? Answer: Yes, that is our specialty. We can create any itinerary with a private boat, helicopter, and the best hotels.

Question: Do you offer discounts for large groups? Answer: Of course! For groups of 5-6 people or more, we provide special prices and bonuses.

Question: What happens if my flight is canceled but my tour is booked? Answer: Contact us immediately. We will try to reschedule the tour to another day without any loss, provided the booking conditions allow it.

Question: Can you help with purchasing domestic air tickets? Answer: Yes, we assist our clients with logistics, including purchasing plane tickets and high-speed ferry tickets.

Question: Do you provide photo and video shooting during tours? Answer: Upon prior request, we can organize professional shooting, including the use of drones and underwater cameras.

Question: How do I contact Werdana support during my trip? Answer: After booking, you will receive the contact information for a personal manager on WhatsApp who is available 24/7.

Question: Do you organize wedding ceremonies on the islands? Answer: Yes, we organize symbolic wedding ceremonies on secluded beaches and in lagoons.

Question: Where can I read real reviews about your work? Answer: All reviews are available on our social media pages, Google Maps, and in the dedicated section on our website.