19 Best Clinics for Cataract Surgery in Philippines [2023 Prices]
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Asia Pacific Eye Center - Biñan Branch
MyMeditravel Laguna, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Asia Pacific Eye Center - Biñan Branch
Asia Pacific Eye Center - Biñan Branch
Asia Pacific Eye Center - Biñan Branch
Asia Pacific Eye Center - Biñan Branch
Asia Pacific Eye Center - Biñan Branch
3.1
MyMediTravel Total review: 8
Languages spoken
English
Accreditations
View Detail Clinic Details
Silang Eye and ENT Center
MyMeditravel Cavite, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Silang Eye and ENT Center
Silang Eye and ENT Center
Languages spoken
English
View Detail Clinic Details
The American Eye Center - Greenbelt 5
MyMeditravel Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
The American Eye Center - Greenbelt 5
The American Eye Center - Greenbelt 5
Languages spoken
Chinese English
Accreditations
View Detail Clinic Details
Tagaytay Eye Clinic and Eye-wear - Ophthalmologist
MyMeditravel Cavite, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Tagaytay Eye Clinic and Eye-wear - Ophthalmologist
5.0
MyMediTravel Total review: 3
Languages spoken
English
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Eusebio-Tiu Optical Clinic
MyMeditravel Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Eusebio-Tiu Optical Clinic
5.0
MyMediTravel Total review: 1
Languages spoken
English
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Asia Pacific Eye Center - San Pedro Branch
MyMeditravel Laguna, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Asia Pacific Eye Center - San Pedro Branch
5.0
MyMediTravel Total review: 1
Languages spoken
English
Accreditations
View Detail Clinic Details
The American Eye Center - Shangri-La Plaza
MyMeditravel Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
The American Eye Center - Shangri-La Plaza
3.5
MyMediTravel Total review: 2
Languages spoken
Chinese English
Accreditations
View Detail Clinic Details
Asian Hospital and Medical Center
MyMeditravel Metro Manila, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Asian Hospital and Medical Center
Asian Hospital and Medical Center
Asian Hospital and Medical Center
Asian Hospital and Medical Center
Asian Hospital and Medical Center
3.2
MyMediTravel Total review: 93
Languages spoken
English
Features
Airport pickup Airport pickup Family accommodation Family accommodation Free Wifi Free Wifi Interpreter services Interpreter services Laundry Laundry Medical records transfer Medical records transfer Mobility accessible rooms Mobility accessible rooms Online doctor consultation Online doctor consultation Parking available Parking available Pharmacy Pharmacy Phone in the room Phone in the room Private rooms for patients available Private rooms for patients available Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Special dietary requests accepted Special dietary requests accepted Translation services Translation services TV in the room TV in the room
Accreditations
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Roque Eye Clinic - Muntinlupa
MyMeditravel Metro Manila, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Roque Eye Clinic - Muntinlupa
Roque Eye Clinic - Muntinlupa
Roque Eye Clinic - Muntinlupa
Roque Eye Clinic - Muntinlupa
3.1
MyMediTravel Total review: 7
Languages spoken
English
Features
Translation services Translation services
Accreditations
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The Medical City
MyMeditravel Metro Manila, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
The Medical City
The Medical City
The Medical City
The Medical City
The Medical City
3.1
MyMediTravel Total review: 133
Languages spoken
English
Features
Airport pickup Airport pickup Flight booking Flight booking Hotel booking Hotel booking Interpreter services Interpreter services Special dietary requests accepted Special dietary requests accepted
Accreditations
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Perfect Sight Eye Center
MyMeditravel Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Perfect Sight Eye Center
1.0
MyMediTravel Total review: 1
Languages spoken
English
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St. Luke's Medical Center
MyMeditravel Metro Manila, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
St. Luke's Medical Center
St. Luke's Medical Center
St. Luke's Medical Center
St. Luke's Medical Center
St. Luke's Medical Center
Languages spoken
English
Features
Airport pickup Airport pickup Family accommodation Family accommodation Free Wifi Free Wifi Laundry Laundry Medical records transfer Medical records transfer Mobility accessible rooms Mobility accessible rooms Online doctor consultation Online doctor consultation Parking available Parking available Pharmacy Pharmacy Phone in the room Phone in the room Private rooms for patients available Private rooms for patients available Special dietary requests accepted Special dietary requests accepted Translation services Translation services TV in the room TV in the room
Accreditations
View Detail Clinic Details
ZAMBOANGA EYE CENTER
MyMeditravel Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
ZAMBOANGA EYE CENTER
Languages spoken
English Spanish
Features
Translation services Translation services
Accreditations
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Laurence Myles B. Fabros Eye Clinic
MyMeditravel Metro Manila, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Laurence Myles B. Fabros Eye Clinic
Laurence Myles B. Fabros Eye Clinic
Laurence Myles B. Fabros Eye Clinic
Languages spoken
English
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QC Eye Center
MyMeditravel Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
QC Eye Center
Languages spoken
English
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Martinez Eye Clinic
MyMeditravel Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
Martinez Eye Clinic
Languages spoken
English
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The Lasik Surgery Clinic Alabang
MyMeditravel Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Alabang
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Alabang
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Alabang
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Alabang
Languages spoken
English
View Detail Clinic Details
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Manila
MyMeditravel Agusan del Norte, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Manila
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Manila
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Manila
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Manila
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Manila
Languages spoken
English
View Detail Clinic Details
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Pampanga
MyMeditravel Pampanga, Philippines
Price on request
Cataract Surgery
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Pampanga
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Pampanga
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Pampanga
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Pampanga
The Lasik Surgery Clinic Pampanga
Languages spoken
English
View Detail Clinic Details
Our partner clinics in Philippines are accredited by the following associations
JCI Accredited
ISO 9001:2008
TEMOS
ISO Certification - International Organization for Standardization
TÜV Rheinland - Technischer Überwachungsverein Rheinland
ESQH - European Society for Quality in Healthcare
ISQua - The International Society for Quality in Health Care
CHKS Healthcare Accreditation
The Leading Dental Centers of The World
Nobel Biocare Fellowship Program
Zimmer Biomet Dental Education Program
EVF - European Venous Forum
EFQM - European Foundation for Quality Management
IDA - International Dental Academy
ICA - International Chiropractors Association
MCA - McTimoney Chiropractic Association
UCA - United Chiropractic Association
ICS - International College of Surgeons
IACD - International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology
ISDS - International Society for Dermatologic Surgery
EBOPRAS - European Board of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
IAAFA - International Academy of Advanced Facial Aesthetics
WALT - World Association for Laser Therapy
ISHRS - International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery
AAHRS - Asian Association of Hair Restoration Surgeons
ESCAD - European Society for Cosmetic and Aesthetic Dermatology
William Glasser Institute - Reality Therapy Certified
EAC - European Association for Counselling
IFSO - International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorde
TÜV SÜD - Technischer Überwachungsverein SÜD
TÜV NORD - Technischer Überwachungsverein NORD
BIOMET 3i Education Program
EURAPS - European Association of Plastic Surgeons
Center of Excellence in Bariatric Surgery
IAOMS - International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Treatment Abroad Code of Practice
IFFPSS - International Federation of Facial Plastic Surgery Societies
FIGO - International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics
IFED - International Federation of Esthetic Dentistry
EOS - European Orthodontic Society
AOCMF
IBMS - International Board of Medicine and Surgery
EAFPS - European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery
ESCD - European Society of Cosmetic Dentistry
ESCRS - European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons
NASS - North American Spine Society
ESHRE - European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology
MPS - Medical Protection Society
European Journal of Ophthalmology
ISRS - International Society of Refractive Surgery
JCRS - Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
Cornea Society
JPGM - Journal of Postgraduate Medicine
ESPRAS - European Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
OSAPS - Oriental Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
RS - The Rhinoplasty Society
FRANZCOG - Fellow of Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians a
IFOMPT - International Federation of Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapist
WFO - World Federation of Orthodontists
ITI - International Team for Implantology
ICOI - International Congress of Oral Implantologists
Dentsply Friadent Implant Programme
IMTEC Sendax Mini Dental Implants Systems
IAO - International Association for Orthodontics
AAO - Asian Academy of Osseointegration
WAAAM - World Anti-Aging Academy of Medicine
WOSIAM - World Society Interdisciplinary Anti-Aging Medicine
ESE - European Society of Endodontology
ECAMS - European College of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery
IABCLL - International Academy of Body Contouring and Laser Lipolysis
IAFGG - International Association of Facial Growth Guidance
IBCS - International Board of Cosmetic Surgery
IMDHA - International Medical and Dental Hypnotherapy Association
EAO - European Association for Osseointegration
ISD - International Society of Dermatology
IFAD - International Federation of Aesthetic Dentistry
IBHRS - International Board of Hair Restoration Specialists
IAHRS - International Alliance of Hair Restoration Surgeons
EDA - European Dental Association
IASP - International Association for the Study of Pain
ADI - Academy of Dentistry International
EAPD - European Academy of Paediatric Dentistry
EACMD - European Academy of Craniomandibular Disorders
ESHRS - European Society of Hair Restoration Surgery
ICD - International College of Dentists Fellowship
UIME - International Union of Aesthetic Medicine
APACS - Asian Pacific Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
McKenzie Institute International
ITEC - International Therapy Examination Council
ICA - International Cranial Association
I-ACT - International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy
CIBTAC - Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology
IFPA - International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists
ISBI - International Society for Burn Injuries
The Pankey Institute
PEFOTS - Pan European Federation of TCM Societies
URHP - Unified Register of Herbal Practitioners
AACD - Asian Academy of Craniomandibular Disorders
IMSA - The International Medical Spa Association
ACHSI - The Australian Council on Healthcare Standards International
CIDESCO - Comité International d'Esthétique et de Cosmétologie
ART - Active Release Techniques
ICPA - International Chiropractic Pediatric Association
CDA - Caribbean Dermatology Association
APAO - Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology
FICCDE - International College of Continuing Dental Education Fellowship
GMC - General Medical Council
ISA - International Sleep Academy
ISCG - International Society of Cosmetogynecology
EPA - European Prosthodontic Association
ABSI - Advanced Body Sculpting Institute
EACMFS - European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery
FILACP - Federación Ibero Latinoamericana de Cirugía Plástica
REDLARA - Rede Latino-americana de Reprodução Assistida
ALMER - Asociación Latinoamericana de Medicina Reproductiva
ICP - International College of Prosthodontists
EFP - European Federation of Periodontology
IADR - International Association for Dental Research
IODPT - International Organization for Dental Phobia Treatment
Academy of Operative Dentistry
The Dawson Academy
AAP - Asian Academy of Prosthodontics
AsianAOMS - Asian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
ISCD - International Society of Computerized Dentistry - Certified CEREC Trainer
SAAD - Society for the Advancement of Anaesthesia in Dentistry
PFA - Pierre Fauchard Academy
ISCD - International Society of Computerized Dentistry
YDW - Young Dentists Worldwide
APAD - Asia Pacific Academy of Dentistry
ACDNA - Academy Of Computerized Dentistry Of North America
WSLO - World Society of Lingual Orthodontics
PBPS - Philippine Board of Plastic Surgery
PAPRAS - Philippine Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon
PCS - Philippine College of Surgeons
PACCD - Philippine Academy of Cosmetic and Clinical Dermatology
PDS - Philippine Dermatological Society
PAO - Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology
PBO - Philippine Board of Ophthalmology
PSCS - Philippine Society for Cosmetic Surgery
PSO-HNS - Philippine Society of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery
DOT - Department of Tourism
POGS - Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society
PSMO - Philippine Society of Medical Oncology
PSLSI - Philippine Society of Liposuction Surgery
STI - STI
PAFPARS - Philippine Academy of Facial Plastic Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surg
PDA - Philippine Dental Association
PPS - Philippine Prosthodontic Society
PAED - Philippine Academy of Esthetic Dentistry
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Everything you'll need to know about Cataract Surgery in Philippines

What is the cost of Cataract Surgery in Philippines?

The cost of cataract surgery in Philippines can vary, depending on several factors. These may include the technology used during the procedure, the type of IOL implanted, the specific diagnostic tests carried out preoperatively and the surgeon's expertise. However, cataract surgery is generally covered by most insurance plans under medically necessary procedures.

It is advised to consult with your healthcare provider or insurer for a precise cost estimate. Remember, an accurate cost estimate should cover all aspects of the procedure, from the consultation and diagnostic tests to the surgery itself and post-operative care.

What does a Cataract Surgery Procedure Involve?

The cataract surgery procedure typically involves a skilled ophthalmologist creating a small incision in the cornea, the clear front part of the eye. Tiny instruments are then used to break up the cloudy lens, which is then removed. An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted to replace the natural lens.

The surgery generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes. It is usually performed under local anaesthesia that numbs the eye, so the patient stays awake but feels no pain. The procedure can be carried out on an outpatient basis, meaning that patients can go home the same day after a short recovery period in the clinic.

How Long Should I Stay in Philippines for a Cataract Surgery Procedure?

If you're travelling to Philippines specifically for cataract surgery, it's advisable to plan for a stay of at least two to three days. This time allows for the pre-operative assessment, the day of the surgery, and a postoperative check-up before travelling home.

Staying a bit longer provides time for the eye to start healing and allows for a follow-up examination to ensure everything is well. It is always essential to discuss staying duration with your healthcare provider before making any arrangements.

What's the Recovery Time for Cataract Surgery Procedures in Philippines?

Recovery times for cataract surgery procedures vary from person to person, but typically, patients notice an improvement in their vision within a few days of the procedure. However, full healing can take about a month.

During the first few days post-operation, the eye may feel itchy and sensitive. It is also common for a mild burning sensation or grittiness to be experienced. Patients are advised not to rub the eye and to use the prescribed eye drops to help with the healing process and reduce inflammation. Complete visual results and the settling down of any post-operative symptoms could take from several weeks to a few months.

What's the Success Rate of Cataract Surgery Procedures in Philippines?

The success rate of cataract surgery procedures in Philippines is very high, similar to other developed regions. As a mature and well-established procedure, the percentage of patients with significantly improved vision following cataract surgery is greater than 95%.

However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated. These risks mainly involve infection, bleeding, inflammation, detachment of the retina, pressure changes in the eye and sometimes light sensitivity. Most of these complications are extremely rare and can be managed effectively if they occur.

Are there Alternatives to Cataract Surgery Procedures in Philippines?

While there is no definitive alternative to cataract surgery, there are some possible management strategies to delay the operation. These may include:

  • Changing eyeglass prescription, sometimes the nearsightedness caused by cataracts can initially be corrected with glasses 
  • Using a magnifying lens for reading
  • Enhancing lighting conditions at home or workplace
  • Using anti-glare sunglasses or brimmed hats outdoors

However, these alternatives only address the symptoms rather than the underlying cause, the cataract itself. Once the cataract impairs the quality of life significantly, surgery will likely be recommended. Make sure to discuss the best course of action with your healthcare provider.

What Should You Expect Before and After the Procedure

Before the cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist will perform a comprehensive eye examination to measure the size and shape of your eye. This information is necessary to choose the right type of IOL.

After the surgery, you can expect your vision to begin improving within a few days. Your vision may initially be blurry as your eye adjusts to the new IOL. You may also experience soreness or itching in the eye, but this should subside within a few days.

What sort of Aftercare is Required for Cataract Surgery Procedures in Philippines?

Aftercare is vital for a successful cataract surgery outcome. You will be prescribed eye drops to prevent inflammation and infection. These must be used according to the prescribed schedule. It's essential to prevent anything from bumping into your eye or any unnecessary pressure.

Follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your healing process. Patients are usually instructed to wear a protective eye shield while sleeping for a week or so after surgery. Activities like reading or watching television can resume soon after surgery, but strenuous activities or heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks.

Can I have both eyes operated on at the same time in Philippines?

While it is medically possible to perform cataract surgery on both eyes at the same time, it's not the usual practice in Philippines or in most places worldwide. The wait between surgeries for the second eye is usually one to two weeks. 

This is to reduce the risk of potential complications affecting both eyes simultaneously and to ensure the first eye is healing well. However, the decision ultimately depends on the patient's condition and the surgeon's discretion. 

Will I need to wear glasses after Cataract Surgery in Philippines?

Whether you'll need to wear glasses after cataract surgery depends on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) you choose and the accuracy of the IOL power prediction. Monofocal IOLs often require the patient to use reading glasses for close work, while multifocal or accommodating IOLs can reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses.

However, you may still need glasses for certain activities, even with the more advanced IOLs. Also, if there is residual refractive error after the surgery (astigmatism, nearsightedness, or farsightedness), glasses might be required. You should discuss these details with your ophthalmologist.

Will I be awake during Cataract Surgery in Philippines?

Yes, you will be awake during cataract surgery. However, don't let this concern you. The procedure is generally performed under local anaesthetic, so you won't feel any discomfort. Your eye will be numbed, and in most cases, you might receive a mild sedative to help you relax.

The process is swift, usually taking between 20 and 30 minutes, and you won't see the details of the surgery. You might see light and movement, but you won't observe the surgical procedure itself. Before the surgery, your doctor will discuss the procedure and answer any questions, so you'll know what to expect.
 

Whilst the information presented here has been accurately sourced and verified by a medical professional for its accuracy, it is still advised to consult with your doctor before pursuing a medical treatment at one of the listed medical providers. This content was last updated on 21/09/2023.

Considering a trip to Philippines

Cataract Surgery in and around Philippines

About the Philippines

The Philippines is an island nation in the heart of Southeast Asia. It extends from the south of China to the northern tip of Borneo. It is also known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient Seas’, the Philippines is an archipelago of 7,107 islands. It comprises three main island groups, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Manila, the capital city, lies in the southwestern part of Luzon. Quezon City is the largest and most populous city in the country.

It is a prominent English-speaking country and was once a colony of Spain and the United States. It’s the most Westernised country in Asia. However, its culture is a mix of indigenous Malay culture and Spanish and American heritage.

Besides being one of the top tourist destinations, the Philippines is also an emerging medical tourism destination. It ranks in 8th position among popular medical tourism countries and more than 10,000 medical tourists visit the Philippines every year for various treatments. The following factors all contribute to the progress of medical tourism within the Philippines.

  • Expert and board-certified medical professionals with international qualifications and training.
  • Internationally-accredited hospitals with state-of-the-art medical equipment and modern facilities.
  • Affordable costs compared to advanced nations
  • Inexpensive accommodation
  • The English language is widely-spoken making communication with the Medical team and patients easy.
  • Tropical climate helps in the recovery and recuperation

The most common and popular procedures and treatments in the Philippines are cosmetic surgery, weight-loss surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology, and dentistry. As of late, people come here even for liver and kidney transplant surgeries, and cardiac surgeries due to the cost advantage it provides.

For example, a Breast Augmentation surgery that costs between $7,500-$8,500 in the US costs only between $3,000-$3,500 in the Philippines which would be a saving of about 58% to 60%. Also, a coronary artery bypass surgery costing $70,000-$133,000 in the US, will only cost between $11,500-$17,500 and would result in a saving of almost 83% to 86%. Even after adding travel and living expenses, it still makes it a, very good value for the patient to get medical care in the Philippines and several of the more popular Hospital and Clinics are located in Manila, and are St. Luke's Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City and Asian Hospital and Medical Center

Popular Parts of the Philippines

The Philippines has a total land area of 116,000 square miles, with a large population of 107,791,044 million people. It has many pristine beaches, mountains, rainforests, islands, heritage towns, and monuments, With hotels, food, and transportation very affordable, it’s also a good budget tourism destination.

The following are some of the most beautiful places to visit in the Philippines:

  • El Nido –is known for its white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and coral reefs and is the gateway to the Bacuit archipelago which is a group of islands. The laid-back town of El Nido is a base for island-hopping tours, and kayaking trips to mountainous Cadlao Island, El Nido is situated on the northern edge of mainland Palawan.
  • Coron – Is also situated in Palawan and is known for its warm waters, ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and deep diving. The breathtaking Kayangan Lake, surrounded by karst walls is a visual treat. It is the cleanest lake in the Philippines.
  • Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park –is also part of Palawan and is situated to the southeast, in the Sulu Sea. It’s home to countless coral reefs, and expansive breeds of fish, dolphins, sharks, and whales and It is a great water destination for divers.
  • Banaue Rice Terraces – They lie within the mountainous region of the Cordilleras. The rice terraces are about 2,000 years old, a result of the labor of the predecessors of the region and They provide efficient space for people to farm on.
  • Intramuros – The walled historical area of Manila contains the remains of a bygone era with its cobblestone streets and preserved remnants. Walking tours and carromata rides (two-wheeled box-like vehicles drawn by a single native pony) are popular here.
  • Mount Mayon –is a 2,500-meter-tall active volcano. It’s famed for its perfect symmetry and accurate conical shape. You can enjoy the view from some distance or experience it at close quarters, by hiking for a couple of days.
  • Hinatuan Enchanted River – Locals believe the river has mystical qualities. They feel fairies and Engkanto (other nature spirits) guard the enchanting blue-green river. The unknown source of clear saltwater is another mystery surrounding the river.

Boracay and Siargao are other popular tourist spots with their powdery white sand and water activities.

Weather and Climate in the Philippines

The Philippines has a tropical maritime climate. The general weather is hot and very humid. It experiences only three seasons:

  1. Summer Season – A very hot and dry summer season is between March and May.
  2. Wet Season – Rainy Season is between June and November when the southwest monsoon is most active. In this period, typhoons are common, especially during September and October.
  3. Dry Season – There is a cool and dry season between December and February, due to the cold winds brought in by the northeastern monsoon.

The average temperature of the Philippines ranges between 25°C and 32°C (78-90°F) with humidity of about 77%. High-altitude areas are much cooler, with night temperatures dropping to 20°C (68°F). The average annual temperature is around 26.6°C (79.9°F)

Getting Around in the Philippines

The Philippines is an island nation, most international travelers reach the country by air. The country has many international airports in various cities including Cebu, Davao, Manila, Kalibo, and Angeles.

Many airlines operate flights in and out of Manila to several destinations. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Air Asia are the national carriers of the Philippines. Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and many Middle Eastern airlines operate direct flights to Manila. The Southeast Asian cities of Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City have wide connectivity to Manila and Cebu. You can reach Manila directly from London by flying Philippine Airlines. US travelers can fly via Japan to the Philippines.

Cebu Pacific, Tigerair Philippines, and PAL Express are some low-cost carriers that service domestic destinations in the country.

For transport within the Philippines, you have Jeepneys which are WWII- army jeeps converted into transport jeeps. They are cheap, open, and usually fully loaded with passengers which are normally cramped with 14 to 20 people sitting shoulder to shoulder depending on the length of the vehicle They operate as collective taxis, picking up and dropping passengers within cities.

Tourist Visas in the Philippines

Travelers from more than 150 countries that have diplomatic relations with the Philippines can enter the country without a tourist visa. EU, Australia, Japan, and the US are a few visa-exempt countries. In general, you can stay for up to 30 days, provided your passport is valid for at least six months after your arrival. Showing proof of onward and return journeys is compulsory.

Citizens of India, China, and Egypt are some of the countries that will need to get a visa in advance to enter the Philippines.

Additional Information

  • Philippine Peso or Piso (PHP) is the official currency of the Philippines. Its subdivision is 100 centavos or centimos for a Peso. The current exchange rate for one US dollar is 51.99 PHP. You will be able to use US Dollars in Metro Manila and possibly in Cebu City. In other areas, it’s better to have pesos for exchange.
  • You will find all major banks and plenty of ATMs everywhere. Master and Visa cards are accepted in most businesses.
  • Tagalog or Filipino language is the main spoken language. English is also spoken and understood in the Philippines, due to the US influence during its colonization.
  • Roman Catholicism is the major religion of the Philippines. 91% of the population are Christians and about 5.5% comprises of Islam religion.
  • New Year’s Day, Araw ng Kagitingan, Independence Day, National Hero’s Day, Bonifacio Day, and Christmas are some of the important holidays in the Philippines.