Local Information

Time Zone

The Philippines follows the GMT+8 time zone.

Weather / Climate

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

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 Philippines 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. ICCE 2018 recommends the services of Smart Communications.

Smoking

Most places Metro Manila adhere to the Clean Air Act, prohibiting smoking in all open and public spaces. Similarly, enclosed public spaces are smoke-free. The ICCE 2018 Conference Venue and Partner Hotels are generally non-smoking. Certain establishments may have a designated smoking area.

Getting Around

When travelling from the airport, or any other place in Metro Manila, there are several options for transportation. ICCE 2018 recommends the following:

  • Grab
    Download the mobile application and register for an account. This service requires and internet connection.
    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) or charged to your credit card or debit card.
    The application displays a notification with the vehicle and driver information. Most vehicles accommodate four passengers and two medium-sized luggage.
  • Metered Taxi
    Taxis are clearly marked and appear in a variety of colors. The flag-down rate is Php 40.00. Fare is based on distance and time of travel at Php 13.50 per kilometer and Php 2.00 per minute respectively.
    Always insist that the taxi driver activates the meter.
    If coming from the airport, look for the queue for the yellow metered taxi. Metered taxis usually accommodate four passengers and two medium-sized luggage.
  • Car Service
    At the airport, there are counters for different car services. These car services provide a vehicle and a driver. These usually cost more than Grab or Metered Taxi services. It may be worth considering when travelling with a large group.
    ICCE 2018 recommends the airport transfer services of Nissan Rent A Car.
    Most hotels also offer the paid option to arrange for transportation from and to the airport.

For more airport information, visit manila-airport.net.