Local Information

Travelling to Manila

Time Zone

The Philippines follows the GMT +8 time zone

Weather / Climate

The Philippines has a tropical monsoon climate. The month of December falls within the dry season, with occasional rain showers. The average temperature in December falls between 22°C and 32°C.

Language

The Philippines, especially Metro Manila, is generally bilingual (English and Filipino). Provinces and regions across the country also speak a variety of dialects.

Currency

The Philippine Peso (PHP) is the national currency of the Philippines. Foreign Currency Exchange centers and banks are easily accessible in most parts of the country.

Electrical Voltage

Electrical voltage in the Philipines is 220 volts. Gadgets and appliances that require 110 volts should use a voltage converter.

Telecommunications

When calling Manila from abroad, phone numbers follow the format: Landline Numbers: +63 2 #### #### Mobile Numbers: +63 9## ### ####
Prepaid mobile SIM cards are widely accessible in airports, malls, and convenience stores. ICPC Manila recommends the services of Smart Communications.

Smoking

Most places in Metro Manila adhere to the Clean Air Act, prohibiting smoking in all open and public spaces. Similarly, enclosed public spaces are smoke-free. The ICPC 2025 venues and Partner Hotels are generally non-smoking. Certain establishments may have a designated smoking area.

Getting Around

• Grab

  Download the mobile application and register for an account. This service requires an internet conenction.
  Specify your pick-up point and your destination.
  If coming from the airport, specify the airport terminal as the pick-up point, e.g. NAIA Terminal 3.
  The application will display an estimated fare to be paid. Payment may be made in cash (Philippine Pesos), charged to your credit card or debit card, or any applicable payment method you may have.
  The application displays a notification with the vehicle and driver information.
  Most vehicles accommodate four passsengers and two medium-sized luggage.

• Metered Taxi

  Taxis are clearly marked and appear in a variety of colors.
  If coming from the airport, look for the queue for the yellow metered taxi.
  Always insist that the taxi driver activates the meter.
  Metered taxis usually accommodate four passengers and two medium-sized luggage.