Philippine Laws and Rules ( A Brief Guide)
When you visit the Philippines it is useful to know that different areas of the islands require a different knowlege of whats allowed and what is not. Some areas have by- laws etc that are indiginous to that area
For any rules and laws that you should be aware of in specific areas of the Philippines , please see our DESTINATION pages where we cover places such as Palawan, Subic Bay, Manila, Angeles City, Boracay Ect
We will also be adding links on our USEFUL LINKS PAGE that give official information of what laws etc you need to be aware of.
When visiting the Philippines its advisable to be aware as soon as possible, as with any other country as to the local customs and laws in that country.
One of the first things that visitors will notice when they arrive from the UK, is that the police force is armed as a matter of course, and that seeing policemen with sidearm’s and even shotguns etc is a common site. This can sometimes be a little worrying for visitors, but in practice, can make visitors feel more secure around public and official buildings.
Security Guards, in places such as Shopping Malls, retail outlets, bars , banks , hotels etc will also be armed. Generally they are very friendly and sometimes double up as helpers in the establishments like fast food outlets, clearing tables, delivering food to your table etc . At entrances to some places like banks, public building , and Malls you will have bags and your person searched , this is mostly done in a courteous and friendly laid back fashion . Once you are used to seeing this custom in the Philippines, you will soon realise that in these days of global terrorism, its better to be safe than sorry.
As a Tourist , it is hoped that all you require of the police is maybe some advice or directions, but if you stray into areas of Philippine life that you shouldn’t , then the police will deal with offenders severely. Corruption can be a problem within certain areas of life in the Philippines as with many other countries. If you find you have any problems in this area , then the British Embassy is the place to take your complaints.
Passport /I.D
It is advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times, as a police officer can ask you to produce it at any time. If you have a photocopy with you then it can save you a lot of time , money and trouble, by avoiding the need for you to visit the police station to confirm your I.D.
Of course it is always useful to have a couple of copies of your passport in the event your original passort gets stolen , damaged or lost whilst you are away.
Sexual Behaviour.
Prostitution is illegal in the Philippines but a blind eye is turned to the girlie, bikini bars and clubs that quite openly advertise the services of girls for hire.
If you travel to Angeles, which is the bar capital of the Philippines you will see many pretty sexy girls, dressed in bikini style outfits , encouraging men into the bars and clubs. Once inside the bars or clubs then it becomes obvious what is available to men who want some company for just a short time or to finish the evening off with a bang so to speak. The same kind of set up can be found in many major city or resort areas but to a lesser extent than Angeles City.
Under age sex is a very very serious offence in the Philippines and men using underage boys or girls for sex are treated very firmly. In fact just to be caught in the company of an underage child whether in a compromising situation or not can lead to imprisonment. Beware of scams, where a girl will say she is over 18 but in fact be under the legal age of consent. While you are in a room with her , you might find yourself being visited by police. Many foreigners get locked up and only get out after they pay a large amount of money to the police involved. The girl may get a portion of this.
Caution and common sense must be used if frequenting bars, clubs or meeting girls in the malls etc.
There are no OFFICIAL nudists beaches in the Philippines although I have heard of one on one of the islands. Topless sunbathing is also not ‘officially’ allowed.
Driving
If you want to drive whilst in the Philippines , you can do this on your Uk licence. In fact you have upto 90 days whilst in the Philippines to obtain a Philippine Driving Licence.
Be aware of the likelihood of being stopped as a foreigner for ‘minor’ traffic offences by the local police. Always make sure you have id and your licence with you when driving.
Other laws and rules that you need to know whilst you visit the Philippines are encompassed in the various sections of this website. We don’t profess to be experts or lawyers regarding the Law in the Philippines. Our advice is to learn from ex pats that you meet, locals, and the various links that we will be posting on this site for a more informed , accurate and comprehensive coverage of what you should be aware of , to make your trip to the Philippines as enjoyable as possible.
