Philippines entry and exit requirements. Upon entry, if you are carrying foreign currency equivalent to more than 5,000 USD, you must declare it; this amount may be taken out upon departure. To avoid inconvenience, it is recommended to declare foreign currency even if the amount is less than 5,000 USD. Foreign currency can be exchanged for Philippine Pesos (PHP) at the airport, but you must retain the exchange receipt so that any remaining pesos can be converted back into foreign currency. The peso comes in both banknotes and coins. Banknote denominations include 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000.
Climate and Clothing: The annual average temperature is 26–27 degrees Celsius. Casual summer attire is generally sufficient. Formal attire or evening wear is required for formal occasions.
Dining: The country is most famous for its rich-flavored seafood. Restaurants often feature live bands and traditional dance performances. Local Filipino cuisine favors the use of vinegar and large amounts of garlic and other pungent spices. Representative dishes include: Lechon (roast suckling pig), Sinigang soup, Adobo, and Lapu-Lapu fish.
Specialties: Among Philippine products, wood carvings are highly recommended, such as puppets, jewelry boxes, and chessboards, which come in a wide variety. Shell handicrafts also have a distinct Filipino style, including shell necklaces, pins, lampshades, wall decorations, coasters, and containers. Various handbags, carpets, and balls made from Manila hemp are popular with tourists. In terms of textiles, there is Bontoc fabric, which is rich in highland ethnic character and features bold colors, embodying a tropical flair. Dried fruits are also ideal gifts; dried papaya, dried mango, and dried pineapple are available in gift boxes at duty-free shops.
