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15th Congress of the APSR

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Manila, 2010


About the Philippines

The Philippines is called Asia's pearl of the orient for the richness of its culture and the beauty of its landscape. It is home to centuries old churches, turn of the century mansions, ancient forts and modern museums. The Philippines is an archipelago comprising 7,100 islands. With its extensive coastline, the country offers the best of island beaches, white sand blue water teeming with marine life, corals and lush foliage. The Philippines is blessed with a moderate climate making it an ideal sun holiday destination.

The Philippines is home to a warm, hospitable, largely English speaking population. The legendary Filipino hospitality has become a trademark of our people. This, plus the unique Spanish and American cultural influences make the country one of the more convenient travel destinations in Asia. The three main Philippine island groups are Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.

The Philippines is the prime mover in convention organization in Asia. Manila boasts of a pool of experienced manpower capable of providing your utmost need. The country has hosted some of the biggest and most prestigious international conferences like the: (1) IMF-World Bank Conference; (2) Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit; (3) World Congress of Cardiology; (4) World Congress of Pediatrics; and (5) World Tourism Conference, as well as popular international events such as the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant and the Manila International Film Festival.

Manila also offers world class restaurants, an exciting nightlife, modern shopping malls, exotic spas and fabulous scenery. It has grown to be one of the modern cities in Asia, but it still throbs with its rich historical and cultural heritage and its exquisite natural beauty. Take a scenic drive to the countryside to view the picturesque Taal Volcano, or cruise to Corregidor and travel back in time to World War II as dramatized through lights and sounds, or simply relax by the beach front under the golden sun.

The Filipinos are a warm and friendly people known for their hospitality and irrepressible sense of humor. They are fun loving and easy going, but more than that, they know how to make their guests share their joy and make them truly welcome.

Come to the Philippines and experience our culture and the arts, appreciate our history, admire heritage destinations, behold our unique tropical landscapes, enjoy exciting nighttime activities, shop in bargain malls and town centers, discover the hospitality and tranquility in one of the most beautiful mix of 7,107 islands in the Asia-Pacific region that are absolutely beyond the usual.

Metro Manila, the MEGA CITY by the Bay

The capital of the Philippines - its heart and soul - is Manila. It sets the archipelago's rhythm and is a pulsating hub that blends the Oriental with the Occidental, the quaint with the modern, the mundane with the extraordinary.

At the heart of Manila's history is Intramuros. It features the grand Manila Cathedral with its detailed stone carvings and stained glass mosaics; Fort Santiago, the site of torture chambers and dungeons; and the favorite wedding spot, the San Agustin Church.

Greater Manila, made up of 11 cities and 5 towns, is where the country's most prestigious business address and the trendiest leisure establishments are found. Fashionable hotels, restaurants, discos, music bars, boutiques, and specialty shops converge around the sleek Ayala and Ortigas Centers.

Other major cities include Quezon City, also an entertainment hub as well as a government center; Marikina City, the shoe center of the Philippines; Paranaque City, known for its dry goods and seafood markets and restaurants; and Las Pinas City, which houses the world's only bamboo organ at St. Joseph's Parish Church.

Calabarzon, comprised of the five provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon, is only a few hours away from Manila. The area boasts of great destinations and leisure activities for day trips or overnight getaways as well as export processing centers.

MUSEUMS - The u-shaped government belt within Luneta features the National Museum, the Museum of Filipino people, and the Department of Tourism building, future address of the Museum for Natural Sciences.

TOURIST BELT - A stone's throw away from Rizal Park are the Ermita and Malate district, known as Manila's Tourist Belt. Ermita is antique and art galleries, curio and souvenir shops while Malate is cozy cafes, music lounges, and performance theaters.

SUNSET BOULEVARD - Roxas Boulevard, which extends from Paranaque City to Manila, is the bay area from where one can have a view of the famed Manila sunset. It is also lined with posh hotels, casinos and lively nightspots. The Baywalk, a promenade along the boulevard, features bars and restaurants with nightly entertainment.

General Information on the Philippines

Time Zone

The Philippines is eight hours ahead of the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Getting There

Manila is the main international gateway to the Philippines, and one of the major air hubs in the Asia Pacific region. Its strategic location in Asia makes it a vital point on major international routes. The Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila is the premier gateway. It is served by more than 30 major airlines, which fly to different cities around the world.

Entry Regulations

A valid passport is required for entry to the Philippines Foreign visitors from countries with diplomatic relations with the Philippines are allowed to enter the country without visas and may stay for 21 days provided their passports are valid for at least 6 months and they hold return tickets. When staying for more than 21 days, a tourist visa is necessary and is valid for 59 days. Permits and visas can be obtained from the Philippine Embassies and Consulates.

Customs

Visitors are advised to fill in the Baggage Declaration Form before disembarking to facilitate Customs examination.

Airport Facilities

It is served by the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and the Centennial Airport - Terminal II which is 7 kms from the city center. The international airports have adequate traveler facilities: duty-free shopping centers, souvenir shops, tourist information and assistance counter, hotel and travel agency representatives, car rental services, banks and automated teller machines, postal service, national and international direct dial telephone booths, medical clinic and baggage deposit areas.

Climate

March to May is hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 32°C. June to October is rainy. November to February is cool, temperatures range from 22 to 28°C. Average humidity year-round is 77%.

Language

Filipino is the national language. The Philippines is also the third largest English-speaking country in the world. Thus, English is widely spoken and is extensively used in business and government.

Currency and Credit Cards

Unit of currency: Philippine peso (P). Bills are in: P 20, P 50, P 100, P 200, P 500, and P 1,000. Coins come in 5, 10, 25 centavo and P1, P5, P10 peso denominations. Exchange rate is approximately USD 1 to P 56. Next to the peso, the US dollar enjoys wide acceptance. Most foreign currencies can be easily exchanged at banks, hotels and authorized foreign exchange dealers. International credit cards such as Visa, Diners Club, Mastercard, American Express Card and JCB are accepted in major establishments.

Business and Banking Hours

Private and government offices are open either from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Some private companies hold office on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Most shopping malls, department stores and supermarkets are open from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. There are 24-hour convenience stores and drugstores. Banks are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Mondays to Fridays, with automated teller machines (ATM) operating 24 hours.

Communication Facilities

The Philippines has modern and efficient communication services such as international direct dialing, facsimile, email and internet facilities, worldwide express delivery and postal services.

Electrical Current

Electrical current is 220 volts, 60 Hz. Two-pin flat blade attachments and two-pin round plugs are used. A transformer is necessary for appliances with electrical current of 110 volts.

What to Wear

Light, casual clothes are recommended. On formal occasions, a dinner jacket and tie may be worn for men and cocktail dress or long gowns for women.

Tipping

Tipping is generally expected for any services. The standard practice is 10% of the total bill. However, most hotels and restaurants include a 10% service charge, making additional tipping optional.

Medical Services

Hospitals in the country are equipped with modern facilities to meet any medical need. Most hotels and resorts provide medical assistance.

Safety

For those who have not previously been to the Philippines and are perhaps concerned about their personal safety, we wish to assure all delegates that Manila, Philippines is like any other major city in the world, where common sense will ensure a trouble-free and enjoyable congress and vacation. Do not leave luggages or valuables unattended. Use the safety deposit boxes provided by most hotels. Do not carry large amount of cash, and keep cash, credit cards and identification documents in a secure place.

Insurance

The congress organizers cannot accept liability for personal injuries sustained, or for loss or damage of property belonging to congress participants or their accompanying persons, either during the congress or during tours. It is therefore recommended that participants and accompanying persons arrange for appropriate travel and health insurance before travelling.