Noong nasa Cebu kami ni Athens noong Agosto , ibinilin ni Max at ng kanyang asawang si Marlen na wag namin kalimutang puntahan ang SUTUKIL sa Mactan Island.
Sa mga di nakakaalam kung ano ang Sutukil, Su ay sugba or grilled, tu tula or sabaw at kil ay kilaw o yung salaw ng isda, kinilaw.
Medyo may kalayuan ang pinuntahan namin mula sa downtown Cebu. Pero dahil gutom na gutom na rin kami nagpasya na rin kaming puntahan ang sinasabing lugar. Plus me bonus place pa raw na makikita.
Pagkaraan ng ilang minuto, dumating na nga kami sa sinasabing kainan. Parang isang basketball court ang harapan at nasa likuran pala ang mga kainan. Sa gilid naman meron mga souvernir shops. Ilang segundo pa ang aming nalakad parang mga paparrazi ang mga manlalakal na lumapit sa amin. Sabay sabay nila kaming niyayang kumain sa kanilang mga kainan. Feeling artista kami ni Athens dito hehehe.
Sa Sutukil pala ikaw ang mamimili ng isda o kung anong klaseng lamang dagat ang gusto mong kainin at ang paraan ng pagluto. Heto ang aming mga pinili at kinain ni Athens.
At heto naman ang bonus na view!
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
THE travel advisory released by Canada identifying Davao del Sur as among the 10 Philippine provinces that are considered possible terror attack targets is baseless, Gov. Douglas Cagas said.
In a telephone interview, Cagas said Canada's travel advisory against Davao del Sur does not have enough bases considering that no foreigner was abducted or killed in his province the past three months under his administration.
Wala man pu'y Abu Sayyaf dinhi (There is also no Abu Sayyaf here). So there's no basis at all," Cagas said.
In an updated travel advisory released Friday, Canada advised its citizens against travel to Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga Peninsula, Zamboanga del Sur, Saragani, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Maguindanao "unless they have critical or compelling business or family reasons."
"There is a threat of a terrorist attack, which could occur at anytime in this region. In the recent past there have been several bombings in a number of locations, including (but not limited to) Cotabato, Kidapawan and General Santos City causing several deaths and numerous injuries," the advisory read.
Canada advised its citizens to refrain from traveling at night particularly in Mindanao.
"Bombings and crime-related shootings have occurred in Mindanao, Manila, and other parts of the country, and explosive devices continue to be discovered by security authorities. Canadians should be vigilant and comply with all security procedures. Anything suspicious should be reported immediately to the nearest security authority," the advisory said.
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
The Canadian government has identified 10 Philippine provinces that are considered possible terror attack targets.
In an updated travel advisory released Friday, Canada advised its citizens against all travel to Sulu, Basilan, the Zamboanga Peninsula, Zamboanga del Sur, Saragani, Davao del Sur, South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Maguindanao "unless they have critical or compelling business or family reasons."
"There is a threat of a terrorist attack, which could occur at anytime in this region. In the recent past there have been several bombings in a number of locations, including (but not limited to) Cotabato, Kidapawan and General Santos City causing several deaths and numerous injuries," the advisory read.
Canada cited continuing reports of ongoing terrorist threats to Westerners and Western interests in the Philippines.
Despite a number of highly publicized arrests of persons allegedly associated with terrorist groups, Canada said the threat of terrorist actions remains.
Canada advised its citizens to refrain from traveling at night particularly in Mindanao.
"Bombings and crime-related shootings have occurred in Mindanao, Manila and other parts of the country, and explosive devices continue to be discovered by security authorities. Canadians should be vigilant and comply with all security procedures. Anything suspicious should be reported immediately to the nearest security authority," the advisory said.
Canada also reminded its citizens to be always alert of kidnappings in the Philippines as reports of planned for kidnap-for-ransom continues to hog headlines.
"Kidnappings have occurred throughout the country, including in Manila and several resort areas, and deaths have resulted in some cases. Canadians should be cautious when traveling to, and around, coastal areas and island resorts," the advisory said.
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
When Athens and i went to Cebu last August, we know for sure we are bringing back some pasalubong to Davao. We didnt realize our pasalubong can be as overwhelming as this photos.
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
During the Kadayawan 2007 in Davao, Durian was overflowing as in OVER. Most of the locals said that at off season Durian would sell at P150 per kilo. But since its the Harvest festival, Durian was on sale!!! They can go as low as P10 and as high as P50 but that's this cheap diba?
Noon isa or tatlong klase lang ng durian ang alam ko. Ngayon the list goes on and on and on. From the native durian, Arancillo, Chanee, Karnyaw, Monthong, Lacson 1 , Lacson 2, Soriano, Obusa, Galang, Alcon Fancy
One of the two common varieties found at different fruit stands in the city is Arancillo, which is also considered as one of the oldest varieties in Davao City. Arancillo, named after former BPI-PhilFruits director Vicente Arancillo, is considered as the best variety because of its delectable taste. The other common durian fruit found in fruit stands is Puyat. Unlike Arancillo, Puyat has a stable character that does not easily get rotten and still tastes luscious even during rainy season. The fruit may weigh as much as seven kilos and its tree can bear as many as 100 fruits.
To durian lovers, "Choose an average size. When you buy durian, don't base it on the size, kay kung malaki masyado meron kang makitang abnormalities."
Kayo rin, aphrodisiac daw baya ang durian hehehe
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
Harrison Hot Springs is located at the south end of Harrison Lake, which at 60 kilometers long, is the largest body of fresh water in southwestern BC.
The Harrison Hot Springs Sand Sculpture Society invited former World Champions and multiple-medal winners from the past seventeen years of the World Championships of Sand Sculpture to compete as Doubles in the 2nd Annual Vancouver Sun Tournament of Sand Sculpture Champions. These proven winners submitted their designs for pre-formed blocks of sand in April and the Society had them ready to carve when they arrived in Harrison Hot Springs on May 8th. All entries started carving from the top down over the next thirty-six hours of competition. They worked eight-hour days on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and finished at noon on Mothers’ Day.
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
SINGAPORE AIRLINES winner of Airline of the Year title and also taking the Best Business Class Award, Singapore Airlines CEO, Mr Chew Choon Seng, said "We're very grateful to our many customers who have supported us in this poll. Like other awards we receive, this will inspire our people to keep up the good service and do even better in the future."
QATAR AIRWAYS A multiple winner, taking the Best First Class, Best Airline (Middle East) and Best Cabin Staff (Middle East) titles for 2007. Qatar Airways CEO, Mr Akbar Al-Baker said, "It gives me great pride to receive these accolades, and credit goes to all our staff who are so dedicated to providing the very best service."
JETSTAR is named Best Low-Cost Airline. Alan Joyce, JetStar CEO said "To be ranked above the likes of easyJet is an amazing achievement ... and to be positioned by air travellers as number one value based carrier in our own region above all our local competitors is a great endorsement for all our staff and our management team."
MALAYSIA AIRLINES wins the 2007 World's Best Cabin Staff award. Malaysia Airlines CEO, Mr Idris Jala said, "I am very proud of our cabin crew and their outstanding performance. Our crew treat our customers as guests in our own home. They are natural, spontaneous, determined and willing to demonstrate the best of Malaysian hospitality."
EMIRATES wins Best Inflight Entertainment Award. Emirates SVP Corporate Communications, Mike Simon, said "This is indeed a proud moment for us at Emirates - topping one of the most fiercely-contested of all categories three times in a row. It validates our insistence on inflight innovation and investments to ensure our passengers can relax with an incredible choice of entertainment."
VIRGIN ATLANTIC win Best Business Class Lounge award. Steve Ridgway, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, commented "We're thrilled that our Heathrow Clubhouse has been chosen as the world's best haven for business travellers. Whether it's on the ground or in the air, our teams will never stop delivering the innovative products that all travellers should experience during their journeys."
AUSTRIAN wins Best Business Class Catering. Austrian CEO, Mr Alfred Ötsch, said "Being able to take top place in a worldwide catering comparison is an outstanding performance which makes me particularly happy and shows that we are on the right path. The critical, international travelling public values the consistent quality and service offensive which we have implemented.
AIR BERLIN takes the title of Best Low-Cost Airline Europe, as well as 2nd position in the worldwide Low-Cost airline category. Reacting to the last Award, Air Berlin CEO, Mr Joachim Hunold said "We will make every effort, not only to keep our quality of service, but to improve it even further. This award from Skytrax is a strong incentive for us."
KOREAN AIR wins Best Economy Class title. Korean Air President, Mr Jonghee Lee, said "We are very honoured to be voted the Best Economy Class by millions of customers. It is very encouraging to know that our innovative and quality service was recognised by passengers all over the world."
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
I booked most of my flights online. Actually all travels are booked online. I have e-tickets instead of paper tickets. Booking a holiday through the Internet discount sites may provide upfront savings although some prices advertised doesn't include all costs.
Its a risk. But wont you be ticked off when you find out that the guy sitting next to you on the plane got the exact same flight for a hundred dollars less than you did? I would be totally pissed!!
Its all about timing. If you have extra time the enjoy comparing from one travel site to another by all means by your ticket online.
Know your options:
1. How many stops are you willing to take?
2. The time? Do you prefer early, red eye or mid afternoon flights?
3. Which airlines do you wish to travel?
4. Do you mind short or long lay overs?
5. Which airports are you avoiding?
Another thing to consider is when to travel. Flights are usually cheaper traveling on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday afternoon. Airline tickets are usually as it best after US Thanksgiving, after Christmas and late March just after Spring break.
With all these information available online, who needs a travel agent?
After a few weeks of not blogging what a fitting way to get back by answering five questions from Ate Bambit.
So here it goes:
1. Correct me if I'm wrong but I seem to remember you have three jobs. Why do you work so hard?
*Yes you're right. I had three jobs last year. But after getting this full time job last year i had to let go of the two other jobs. Why i worked so hard? Hmmm i dont know or maybe so i can afford to travel as much as i can and to be able to come home and spend Christmas in the Philippines every year hehehe
2. What was the most difficult thing you had to endure when you migrated to Canada?
*Trying to fit in. It was not about being homesick and missing home since me and family migrated together here years ago. Its trying to fit in, in school, at work, even at the playground. We have to talk the talk and walk the walk to mingle and fit in.
3. When you were a teen-ager did you have any idea that you'd be where you are now, doing what you are doing? (Feel free to interpret this question any way you like ;) )
*I always thought that my family and i will be migrating here in Canada. But working as a nurse, maybe not. I always wanted to be a banker hahaha ang layo diba? But unfortunately i wasnt that good (hindi naman talaga) with numbers so i decided to be a nurse and im living and breathing every moment of it. Tama ba sagot ko dito?
4. What do you think is the best thing that came out of putting up Bisayabloggers?
* Meeting you and the other bisaya bloggers who become my friends online and offline. I didnt realize putting up Bisaya Bloggers will have all this benefits. I remember that night when i came up with the idea and i asked for your opinion. Im sure glad i listened to you and i am forever grateful for Bisaya Bloggers for you and Kuya Sam's friendship.
5. If you were to be given three days for yourself, to do anything you liked and not worry about having to spend for anything, where would you go and what would you do there?
*Travel around the world, pamper and beautify myself and look for the one that got away hahaha
So if you're one of those passerby and happens to take time and read this let me do the favor and be interviewed, here are the rules:
1. Leave me a comment saying “Interview me.” 2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. I get to pick the questions. 3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions. 4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post. 5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
This month's issue of Mabuhay Magazine (Philippine Airlines' international inflight mag) features Vietnam on its cover, but the inside pages contain articles about some of Davao's best beaches, written by ME and beautiful images taken by my partner and award winning professional photographer, Rhonson Ng. We will upload the actual photos in a separate album in Multiply. For now I dutifully took snapshots of the large image files (tamad magscan) to post it in Multiply. (http://jojiealcantara.multiply.com/photos/photo/57/10)
Rhonson's photos have been published in three Mabuhay Magazine issues, one of which was his cover photo of Mount Apo. This is my 2nd issue writing for Mabuhay. My articles this month are about the beaches of my hometown, Mati Davao Oriental, and the famous and exclusive Buenavista Island Resort in Samal Island, Davao del Norte. Rhonson and I are very proud to promote the places in our island Mindanao and will do so at every opportunity our travel takes us. I have also written a snippet about Bo's Coffee in Torres St., which has become a popular hangout among locals now. Mabuhay, Davao! (All photos of Davao by Rhonson Ng)
I usually get emails from fellow balikbayans all over the world. Most of the questions are regarding travel, immigration and citizenship. These questions are generated after United States of America started their campaign against illegal immigrants.
Here's one question some people might be asking themselves too.
" Can i reacquire my Filipino citizenship if i have renounced it previously?"
=====================
Philippine Consulate General, Vancouver
Reply-To: "Philippine Consulate General, Vancouver"
To: Ayeza Garcia
In response to your e-mail of 01 May 2007, please be advised that under Republic Act 9225 or Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition (otherwise know as Dual Citizenship), only natural-born Filipinos who have lost their Philippine citizenship through naturalization in a foreign country, shall be able to retain or reacquire their (Philippine) citizenship.
Those who lost their citizenship by other means, e.g. express renunciation, may have to go through a different procedure to reacquire Philippine citizenship such as by naturalization in the Philippines.
Very truly yours,
(sgd)
RAUL S. HERNANDEZ Consul and Acting Head of Post
==========
Philippine Consulate General New York
To: balikbayan box
Following Philippine laws, you would lose your Philippine citizenship the moment you become an American citizen.
However, the dual citizenship law allows former Philippine citizens to reacquire their lost Philippine citizenship without the need to renounce their present citizenship, thus allowing them to hold dual citizenship.
The following are the ideal requirements that would allow you to reacquire Philippine
citizenship and be issued a Philippine passport: Philippine birth certificate preferably
from the National Statistics Office (to order online: www.e-census.com.ph), Philippine
passport, US certificate of naturalization and US passport. For complete information
and for downloadable forms, please visit the Consulate website at www.pcgny.net.
The dual citizenship icon would be at the lower left hand corner. You may download forms for both the passport and dual citizenship from the same website.
You have to appear at the Consulate with your documents and accomplished application
form. Once it is determined that your submission is complete, you would immediately
take your oath of allegiance. If your case is straightforward and without complications,
the whole process until the issuance of the signed oath of allegiance could take
less than an hour. Other documents including the passport could be issued either
later in the day or the following business day. The fees are $50 for dual citizenship
and $50 for passport. Applicants could just walk in and appointment is not necessary.
Should you have further questions, you may call the Consulate at (212) 764-1330.
PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL NEW YORK 556 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10036 USA Tel: (212) 764-1330 Fax: (212) 382-1146 Email: newyork@pcgny.net Website: www.pcgny.net
Everytime i got the chance i always talked about my hometown, Davao. Its vacation time and just in time for Blogie tagged me about my favorite places in Davao.
These places are based on my last visit to Davao last January 2007:
My favorite place for…
# COFFEE: Bigby's ( before they have free refills), Basti's Brew
# DATES: Insular Hotel (yung restaurant overlooking the Samal Island)
# BIZ MEETINGS: Marco Polo
# HANGING OUT: SM coffee shops (that really depends kung ano ang trip mo)
# PARTYING: Pop’s
# PIGGING OUT: Marco Polo Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Buffet
# MASSAGE: K1, Metro, 24 hours masssage (anytime)
# WORKING OUT: Metro Lifestyle and Holiday Gym & Spa
# WINDOW-SHOPPING: Chimes
# GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL: hmmm but i dont want to get away from it all?
Im tagging Nerie, Shawty, Nix and everyone who live and have visited Davao City.
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
CEB Customer Service Tue, Apr 24, 2007 at 2:12 AM To: balikbayan box Dear Ayeza,
We truly appreciate the feedback from your end. However, we could not control these people to write such bias and subjective comments should they have felt unfairly treated during their flights. As we have made clear to everyone, Cebu Pacific now operates on a new business format as a Low Cost Carrier, the likes of Tiger airways, Jetstar or Air Asia Airlines. This means that we no longer offer for free some added services, such as food, beverages, blankets etc in exchage of the year round cheaper rates compared to other airlines. We focused more on convenience in transferring our passengers from one destination to the other as stated in your tickets. Our policy on flight disruptions became very conservative that others expect even more that what we should offer based on our terms and conditions, resulting to further complaints.
As of the moment, our passengers has rapidly increased as we provide more regional and domestic flights. We sincerely hope that you will not encounter any of these problems in any of your confirmed flights with us in the future. Rest assured that these concerns has been read and investigated for proper address.
Thank you and have a nice day
Regards
Joseph Firmalino Customer services
============================================== From: balikbayan box [mailto:balikbayan@gmail.com] Sent: Tuesday, April 24, 2007 3:49 PM To: CEB Customer Service Cc: CEB Online Reservation - Cebu Subject: P1 for every Juan
Dear Juan of Cebu Pacific
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
From: "balikbayan box" To: customerservice@cebupacificair.com Subject: P1 for every Juan
I recently booked a lot of my domestic flights with your airline. As a matter of fact i sure got great deals from that P1 Peso for every Juan promo you had last March 2007. Recently i read nothing but bad reviews through blogs (online journals) of bloggers who were also passengers of your airline. Now it scares me to fly with your airline. Not because of the aircraft itself but of the service of the employees and staff that works for you. Are they overworked and under compensated that's why they're grumpy? Or plain bad service?
And now you have brought back the promo again. I hope you'll take this letter into consideration and do something about it.
I hope you know word of mouth is very powerful so please make sure none of all these written will happen again to future passengers. We did got a good price for the tickets but we dont need a cheap and sloppy service in exchange for that.
Maraming salamat po! AYEZA
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
Last night was my first time watching "The Amazing Race: All Stars" and boy was it ever fun.
Rob and Amber got eliminated whooooo!!!
I guess youll notice im not a fan of the Romber or Robam or whatever their fans might call them ( easy now or ill get hate mails again) Anyways, thank God i had the Sunday off plus the weather wasnt that good either, it was t.v time for me.
The task was Sign It, Teams had to choose a pole and building supplies and carry them up a flight of stairs to Magellan's Map. Using the map as a reference, Teams needed to figure out his journey around the world began and ended in Seville. Then, they had to build a traditional local signpost listing in order the fourteen ports of call in his voyage. While the signs didn't have to point in the right direction, all the cities had to be spelled correctly.
Its fun watching Romber them for their competitve nature. Rob and Amber lost this one because the challenges dealt with things like reading, writing and spelling - stuff that Rob is not all that comfortable with. After Rob demonstrated his inability to spell Phillipines, it's not surprising he couldn't find the Rob & Amber letter, he was looking for Rob & Amba.
However, Rob's good start took a bad turn when he misspelled Philippines on a placard by adding an extra L and omitting a P.
"Are you smarter than a 5th grader?"
Hey Rob, can you spell Phillipines now????? It's not Pillipeans you moron.
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
Last week, TSA began using backscatters at airports to screen passengers for weapons. The first machine is up and running in Phoenix. The next ones will be in New York and Los Angeles. The machines have been modified with a "privacy algorithm" to clean up what they show. But even the tempered images tell you more than you need to know about the endowments of the people seated next to you.
Are you up for this? Are you ready to get naked for your country?
Few weeks ago i got a call from an anonymous number.
You won a trip to Orlando, Florida!!!
Yea right. I never entered any contest. Let alone bought a raffle ticket for some trip. The voice on the other line wont stop.
If youre above 18 years old press 1 otherwise please hang up
I wanted to put down the phone right then and then. The picture of me sipping a margarita along the beautiful beach in Florida is so enticing. I pressed 1.
The next thing i knew i was giving my credit card number and the promise of a Florida vacations courtesy of Vacation Promotions is flashing in my mind.
Then two nights ago, i was watching CTV news and they're were talking about different kinds of scams. From emails, mails, and calling you at home saying you won a trip to Florida. Oh my God! Thats exactly the same line that lured me into this trip to Orlando. So i check on the website again and tried calling their customer service. But of course darling, no one's picking up the phone. My palms are sweating and i can hear my heart pounding and beating like a drum. So i checked if they have already taken the money from my credit card. And they did waaaaaaaaaaaaa.....
I phoned the credit card company. And for the love of me, i was transfered back and forth from customer service to fraud department then to cancellation of my card. Hay naku i just want this to end i dont even know what i want. To stop , cancel or get my money back from this Vacation Promotions.
Anyways, the credit card customer services said i need to wait for 30 more days and until i report them for fraud or whatever you may call them. Then if they charged my cc again then the cc company will give me my money back. But this will be after 30 days and if it will be proven that this company is a scam.
Today i got my Vacation Promotion Package from the mail.
Ay ewan!
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
Since my love affair with the current Cebu Pacific promo sale started i havent been the same. Im constantly checking for a flight around the Phils and even considering some international destinations as well. Then when i got the flight i want now the dilema starts who should i go with or do i know anybody in that city?
Cebu pacific's One Peso Flight Fare is driving me crazy. Next to my sites i have 2-3 Cebu Pacific websites open hoping to get that elusive One Peso Flight arghhh.
The goodnews is i was able to get some flights booked and confirmed!
Badnews? Of course i want more but so many flights so little vacation days.
Now im feeling sad i wont able to stalk Cebu Pacific after March 08 when the sale period ends.
"If you look like your passport photo, you're too ill to travel." -- Will Kommen
Kahon ng mga alaala, pangyayari at ang aking pang araw araw na pakikipagsapalaran sa dayuhang bansa.
Balikbayan box - translations:
BALIK means to come back.
BAYAN means hometown or homeland.
So if you put the words together,
BALIKBAYAN means someone who is coming back home.
Balikbayan - refers to Philippine nationals who are permanently residing abroad including their spouses and children, regardless of nationality or country of birth.
It also refers to those of Filipino Descent who acquired foreign citizenship and permanent status abroad.
The box is filled with various gifts and goodies that range from cds, shoes, lotions, canned goods etc to be given to relatives and friends back in one's homeland.
Basically it's like a care package for you college kids from your mom. "Balikbayan box... chocolates... delata (canned goods)" repeated over and over.
As a tid bit those two items are like a mandatory staple in a balikbayan box.
Davao
City, the capital of the Southern Mindanao Region,
is one of the world’s largest cities in terms of land
area, spanning 244,000 hectares.
In recent years, the sprawling urban metropolis has emerged
as the business, investment and tourism hub for southern Philippines,
winning the hearts and minds of its visitors through its people’s
gentle smiles and its diverse cultural and natural riches.
The gateway to the East ASEAN region, Davao City is a melting
pot of diverse migrant and indigenous communities, resulting
in a unique charm and culture that is woven into a rich tapestry
of ethnic and contemporary styles.
Davao City’s slogan, “From Islands to Highlands”
perfectly captures its wealth of attractions. The city boasts
some of the finest beach and mountain resorts in the country,
and close proximity to the Philippines’ most captivating
diving spots as well as its highest peak, Mt Apo.
An ideal tourist destination, Davao has it all - cultural
interludes, beautiful beaches, fascinating dive spots, and
myriad opportunities to commune with nature at its finest. Top 10 Things to See
and Do in Davao City[Click
here for more details]
Attractions in Davao Philippine Eagle Nature Center The
Philippine Eagle Nature Centre in Calinan treats visitors
to a rare glimpse of one of the world’s most endangered
bird species, the Philippine Eagle or Pithecophaga Jefferyi.
Now close to extinction, the Philippine Eagle’s last
remaining natural abode is in the Mt Apo range.
The Philippine eagle stands a metre tall and has a wingspan
of two metres, making it the second largest eagle in the world.
Distinguishing characteristics include bluish eyes, a warlike
headdress of spiky feathers, and a large, sharp, curved beak.
The centre, which breeds and cares for this valuable national
icon, is home to more than 30 Philippine Eagles, including
Pag-Asa, the world’s first Philippine Eagle born in
captivity by artificial insemination.
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Culture and Heritage
Davao City may now be a sprawling metropolis but its roots
are steeped in Mindanao culture. The city was originally inhabited
by eight tribes, including the Bagobos, Mandayas, Manobos
and T’bolis. The cultural inheritance of Davao City
is showcased at the Davao Museum at Insular Village. Here
can be seen costumes, accessories and implements of the different
tribes of Davao.
The tribes of Davao have elevated their weaving to an art
form, with each tribe having distinct patterns and techniques.
The T’boli weaving centre at the Waterfront Insular
Hotel Davao features the production of the colourful Tinalak
fabric, while the Dagmay weaving technique of the Mandaya
tribe takes centrestage at the Pearl Farm Beach Resort.
The Aldevinco Shopping Center in downtown Davao houses several
shops selling the arts, crafts and fashions of southern Philippines.
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Fruits
Mindanao is the food of the Philippines; Davao, its fresh
fruit platter. Davao City’s many farms are major exporters
of bananas, pineapples, mangosteens, durians, and pomelos,
among others. These fruits are abundant in the markets and
stalls lining the city’s streets at a fraction of their
price elsewhere in the country.
The Davao Durian has several varieties, most popular ones
being the Arancillo and the Puyat, and is known to be stronger
and a tad more bitter than its Malaysian counterpart. So plentiful
is this exotic “King of Fruits” in Davao City
that it has penetrated the market for everything from ice
cream and candy bars to jams and coffee.
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The Malagos Garden Resort
This 12-hectare resort in the Davao City highlands offers
more than just accommodation. The Malagos Garden Resort is
dedicated to the protection and conservation of the environment,
and this commitment shines through in its various attractions
and activities.
Permanent fixtures include a butterfly sanctuary, horseback-riding
trails, orchid farm, petting zoo, and works of Philippine
national artist for sculpture Napoleon Abueva. An accredited
wildlife farm, the resort also has the world’s only
waling waling forest, the latter being the Philippines’
most important orchid species. Malagos Garden Resort holds
various interactive wildlife shows every weekend.
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Eden Nature Park & Resort At
2,500 feet above sea level, this mountain resort has some
of the best views of Davao City and the Davao Gulf. Nestled
in the city’s lone pine forest, the 40-hectare Eden
Nature Park & Resort is perched on the slopes of Mt Talomo.
Touted as Davao City’s natural paradise, the resort
has hiking trails of varying difficulty, a horse park, a multi-purpose
sports field, a fishing village, flower gardens, greenhouses,
vegetable and garden herb terraces, and fruit orchards.
Faint lights twinkle at the firefly sanctuary, birds sing
in the aviaries, while deer dart about in a designated area.
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Island Garden City of Samal Some
700 metres south of Davao City is the Island Garden City of
Samal, an archipelago of nine islands in the Davao Gulf. Pride
of the place on Samal island belongs to the Pearl Farm Beach
Resort, a 45-minute boat ride from Davao City. The 14-hectare
resort was once, as its name suggests, a pearl farm where
thousands of white-lipped oysters transported from the Sulu
Sea were cultivated for their pink, white and gold pearls.
Now transformed into a luxury resort, Pearl Farm remains luminescent
with its promise of privacy, elegance and comfort.
The attractions of the Island Garden City of Samal extend
beyond white sand beaches and posh resorts. Samal’s
underwater vistas have made it one of the country’s
top destinations for diving. Dive sites in the area include
the Coral Garden & Marine Park, Ligid Island, and Talicud
Island. Samal Island’s many caves allow for spelunking,
while its inland rugged terrain make hiking and mountain-bike
expeditions popular options.
[ Back to top
]
Mount Apo The
Philippines’ highest peak at 2,594 metres, the majestic
Mt Apo is a favourite of hiking and adventure travel enthusiasts.
While the ultimate reward is the breathtaking view from atop
Mt Apo, the journey itself serves up its own share of wonders
such as hidden waterfalls, rapids,
lakes, hot springs, sulphur pillars, and endangered plant
and animal species, including the Philippine Eagle and the
waling waling orchid known scientifically as the Vanda Sanderiana.
The trek to the summit of the extinct volcano takes around
four days. The most established trail is the Kidapawan trail,
approximately four hours by land from Davao City.
[ Back to top
]
Childhood memories....
gimingaw ko sa Davao...thanks Shawty for the pictures
1) Our old house in Gen. Luna
2) Araw ng Davao Parade
3) Tokwat Baboy at Dencias
4) Watching Mutya ng Dabaw at PTA Ground
5) Pan de sal at Diaz Bakery
6) My batchmates in high school
7) Ukay ukay
8) Smell of durian ( kahit di ako kumakain)
9) Pan de coco at Spanish bread ng Doughboy
10) the smell of pastry wherever you pass by at Peter Pan at Ilustre
11) Traffic at Claveria and San pedro
12) The fried chicken at Sunburst (meron pa ba?)
13) Tilaok ng manok
14) oink oink ng mga baboy
15) Mamalengke sa Bangkerohan
16) Riding tricycle
17) those fast jeepney drivers
18) Molave chicken (sayang, they closed)
19) Pancit mami ng HE Canteen
20) Yung mga ibon lumilipad sa Acacia St.
21) Bumb cars sa Games and Garments Arcade
22) My highschool JS proms at Central Bank
23) Watching concerts at Central Bank
24) Luz Kinilaw
25) Colasas
26) walking from Gen. Luna to Victoria Plaza
27) Dover Lanes and Fairlanes
28) The almost empty Sunday streets
29) Pancit Canton sa Kusina Dabaw (malinis pa rin ba?)
30) Military Presence everywhere
31) Pomelo, suha, buongon basin unsay tawag lami ni
32) Pag me strike sarap tambay lang
33) The ancient acacia trees along Claveria and Magsaysay Streets.
34) The old houses
35) The Monkey eating eagle
36) Davao Airport
37) The you know what at Mantex
38) Flowers
39) Sasa Pier/Wharf
40) Sunday morning rain
41) Dinabaw (I can understand but I cannot speak it! Okaybudi ha-in ka panaw panaw!)
42) Ceciles pancit lug lug, durian pie and chicken sandwich
43) Davao Memorial Park
44) Brown outs and Black outs
45) people watching at Foodcourt ng Gaisano Ilustre
46) Pancit Guisado ng Huckelberry
47) Crest, Lyric, Golden Garmon and Galaxy Theaters (remember?)
48) Diosdados
49) Lord Anthony for Girl Scout and CAT paraphernalia
1. You feel insulted when a non-Bisdak ridicules someone by saying "bisaya", but it's okay for you if you or another Bisdak use it to another Bisdak, as in "ah, bisayaa pud oy!"
2. You feel proud when Matud nila is sung and you sing along with it bisan dili nimo memorize.
3. Hibal-an nimo kung unsa ang habal-habal bisan wala pa ka kasakay niani ug siyempre pa ang "sikad"
4. common usages kung ga-tinagalog:
the use of "kuwan" as interjection
ang superlative nga pirmi gamiton mao ang "masyado", i.e., maingay masyado, sobra masyado, bilisan mo masyado (read: paspasi lagi)
adunay tendency nga pulihan lang ang "o" or "a" og "i", i.e., ang atop into atip, ang kan-on into kan-in, ang sud-an into sud-in ug ang utan into..(hehehehe)
5. you know what "itlog mo 'noy orange" means
6. you know that the karaang "bayle" aron mamahimong modern gipulihan na og "disco" - discoral
7. aduna kay hibaw-an nga at least usa ka kanta ni Yoyoy Villame or Max Surban bisan sa tono lang
8. you can use varied terms of endearment for friends and relatives like bay, parts, paparts, migo, kabs (kababayan), parekoy, pareng, choy, higala, kid, gaw, gaweks, manoy, nong, inse, ditse,iyo, iya, palangga, pangga, gang,
9. you call someone "Inday" and/or "Dodong" as a term of affection and hate it when other non-bisdak use the term as if its a title given for a househelp.
10. you know what "maning hang" is
11. you know vino kulafu and fighter wine...sometimes you even know its jingle!
12. instead of stork, you chose snowbear or you buy Timbura when you mean Corniks
13. your familiar with the brand Loalde in clothing
14. you crave for inun-unan, paklay, halang-halang, law-oy, kinilaw, ginamos, bulad, binignit (tabirak), sikwate paresan sa puto maya,
15. Esteban Escudero and Golyat are folk heroes
16. Handuman sa Usa ka Awit is closer to your heart than Maalaala Mo Kaya TV show
17. You know what HITACHI means (Himantayon, Tabian, Chismosa/o)
18. SUTUKIL is as common as TAPSI, in fact you know that SUTUKIL came first
19. Your common pulutan for Tuba drinking is "TARGET" - asin nga targeton lang nimo sa imong tudlo
20. You have at least once in your lifetime experienced "Ang Mysterio sa Paglawig sa Barko Padulong Manila", a phenomenon that when the Boat is approaching Manila, everybody around you suddenly becomes tagalog speaking nga adtong miaging adlaw lang pwerting bisaya pa ninyo!
21. You whisper bisaya to a fellow bisdak in the midst of a tagalog crowd...and he replies loudly to you in tagalog!
22. The first question you ask when you found out that someone is bisdak, "taga-asa man diay ka?"
23. You usually use the warning phrase Hala Ka!
24. You know the meaning and proper usages of the following (irreverent) words/phrases: pesteng yawa, usapa na, pastilan, latina__ , butalo, way kurat, hastang, puslan man, kuwangol, libod-suroy, ligas-paka, way kuha, ka-ubo, kolera, sampila(koy), burik_t, barbaki, mangga ka sir?, duha singko, balang, palag?, wa ka kyapi?, ok pas olrayt, haybol, ang pahak!, jer-jer, way blema, tulibagbag, pagarpar, giro, pamalalat, kalandrakas, bulala, ambot sa langaw pilay idad sa ok-ok, bugnawg simod, buak ang pula, bagdok, gi-atay, gi-ahak, tibak (tiguwang bakla), NPA (nawong puros agtang), mamaklad, agua de pataranta, tira pasagad, basin diay pilay pad's sa ungoy, banat kay awaaw, mat-an pas pinya, ngitngit pas alkitran, tak-om pas tuway, ug uban pa....
1. AGANA PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Ms.) TERESITA L. MENDIOLA
Consul General
Suite 601-2, ITC Building, Marine Drive
Tamuning, GUAM 96913,
PO Box 9880, Tamuning, GUAM 96931
Tel. Nos. (671) 646-4620; 646-4630
Fax No. 00-671-6491868
Email: pcgagana@ite.net (Jurisdiction: Guam, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Wake Island)
2. CHICAGO
PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Ms.) BLESILA C. CABRERA
Consul General
30 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 2100
Chicago, Illinois, 60602 U.S.A.
Tel. Nos. (312) 332-6458 / Mobile No. 312-5016458
Fax No. 00-1312-3323657
Email: chicagopcg@sbcglobal.net
Website: http://www.chicagopcg.com (Jurisdiction : Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Illinois, and Wisconsin)
3. DUBAICONSULATE GENERAL OF THE PHILIPPINES
Hon. (Mr.) ANTONIO CURAMENG
Consul General
Villa No. 111, Abu Hail Road,
Deira, DUBAI
Tel. Nos. (00971-4) 266-9681 / 266-9643
Fax No. (00971-4) 266-6285
4. GUANGZHOUPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Ms.) ERLINDA Q. GAVINO
Consul General
Rm 709-712, 7th Flr., Guangdong International Hotel
339 Huanshi Dong Lu, Guangzhou,
PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Tel. Nos. (8620) 833-11461, 833-10996
Fax No. (8620) 833-30573
Email: guangzhoupc@dfa.gov.ph Website: http://pcggz.bizhosting.com
5. HAMBURGPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Ms.) CHRISTINE QUEENIE C. MANGUNAY
Acting Head of Post
Jungfrauenthal 13, 20149 Hamburg, GERMANY
Tel. Nos. (0049-40) 442-952 & 442-953
Fax No. 00-49-40-459-987
Email: hamburgpcg@t-online.de
6. HONG KONGPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. ALEJANDRINO A. VICENTE
Consul General
14th Floor, United Centre Bldg.,
95 Queensway, Admiralty, HONGKONG, SAR
Tel. Nos. (852) 2823-8500, 2823-8501, 9332-7451
Fax No. 00-852-2866-9885, 2866-8559
Email:hongkongpc@dfa.gov.ph / hongkongpc@philcongen-hk.com Website: http://www.philcongen-hk.com
7. HONOLULUPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Mr.) ARIEL Y. ABADILLA
Consul General
2433 Pali Highway, Honolulu, HAWAII 96817
Tel. Nos. (808) 595-6316 to 19
Fax No. 00-808-5952581
Email: honolulupc@hawaii.rr.com / honolulupc@dfa.gov.ph (Jurisdiction: Hawaii, American Samoa, Kiribati, Tonga, French Polynesia)
8. JEDDAHPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Mr.) PENDOSINA N. LOMONDOT
Consul General
Al-Sayeddah Kaddija Street, Al Faisaliyah District 1
P.O. Box 4794, Jeddah 21412, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
Tel.Nos.(9662) 6600-348, 6670-925, 6600-354
Fax No. 00-9662-6630838
Email: jeddahpc@sps.net.sa / jeddah_pc@dfa.gov.ph (Jurisdiction: Western Region of the Kingdom including the Governorates of Makkah, Madinah, Asir, Abha, Al Baha, Khamis Mushayt, Gizan, Rabigh, Taif & Yanbu.)
9. LOS ANGELESPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Mr.) WILLY C. GAA
Consul General
3600 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 500,
Los Angeles, California 90010, U.S.A.
Tel. No. (1213) 639-0989
Fax No. 00-1213-639-0990
Email: LosAngelesPC@aol.com / losangelespc@dfa.gov.ph Website: http://www.pcgenla.org (Jurisdiction: Southern California, Arizona, Southern Nevada, Texas, New Mexico)
10. MANADOPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Mr.) OLIVIA V. PALALA
Consul General
J1 Tikala Satu No. 12, Tikala Ares Lingkungan I
Manado, North Sulawesi, INDONESIA 95124
Tel. No. (062-431) 862181
Fax No. 00-62431-862365
Email: manadopc@dfa.gov.ph / manadopcg@yahoo.com
11. MILANPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Mr. CHARLIE MANANGAN
Acting Head of Post
Via Santa Maria Segreta 6, 20123
Milan, ITALY
Tel. Nos. (392) 805-14-00; 8051 270 & 8752 90
Fax No. 00-392-878797
Email: milanpcg@libero.it
12. NEW YORK (PCG)PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Ms.) CECILIA B. REBONG
Consul General
556 Fifth Avenue, New York, New York
10036-5095, U.S.A.
Tel. Nos. (1212) 764-1330 & 575-4774
Fax No. 00-1212-3821146
Email: philconsulateny@mindspring.com
Website: http://www.pcgny.net (Jurisdiction: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont)
13. OSAKAPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Ms.) MARIA LOURDES RAMIRO-LOPEZ
Consul General
Twin21 MID Tower, 2-1-61 Shiromi, Chuo-ku,
Osaka 540-6124 JAPAN
Tel. Nos. (06) 6-910-7881
Fax No. 06-6-910-8734
Mobile No. (090) 4036-7984
Email: osakapc@osk.3web.ne.jp Website: http://www4.osk.3web.ne.jp/~osakapc/ (Jurisdiction: Honshu, Toyama, Aichi & West thereof, Shikoku & Khushu areas)
14. SAIPANPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Mr.) WILFREDO D.L. MAXIMO
Consul General
5th Floor, Nauru Building Susupe
P.O. Box 500731 CK Saipan MP 96950
COMMONWEALTH OF NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
Tel. Nos. (670) 234-1848; 235-8360; 234-1850/51
Fax No. 00-670-2341849
Email: saipanpcg@pticom.com (Jurisdiction: Island of Saipan, Tinian, Rota and The Northern Islands)
15. SAN FRANCISCOPHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL
Hon. (Ms.) MARIA ROWENA MENDOZA SANCHEZ
Consul General
447 Sutter Street, 6th Floor, Philippine Center Building,
San Francisco, California 94108, U.S.A.
Tel. Nos. (1415) 433-6666 (trunk-line connection all sections)
Fax No. (1415) 421-2641
Email: sanfranciscopcg2004@yahoo.com Website: http://www.philippineconsulate-sf.org (Jurisdiction: Northern California, Northern Nevada, Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming)
Change of Status from Temporary Visitor to Temporary
Resident
REQUIREMENTS:
Letter of application
General application form duly accomplished and
notarized (BI Form No. RBR 98-01)
2X2 Picture to be attached to the application form
True copy of the Marriage Contract of alien and
Filipino spouse
Certificate of legal capacity to contract marriage
issued by the Embassy of Consulate of the alien spouse, or official
family registrar with authentic interpretation as certified by
the Philippine Embassy of Consulate
Joint affidavit of legal capacity to contract marriage,
stating any previous marriage(s) and manner by which the marriage
was dissolved
If alien spouse was previously married, a true
copy of the divorce decree, dissolution of marriage or death certificate
as the case maybe, duly authenticated
True copy of Birth Certificate of minor unmarried
children under 21 years, if any
Joint affidavit of financial capability and support
executed by the applicant and the alien spouse with supporting
documents showing capability to support themselves
Medical Certificate from the Bureau of Quarantine
that the alien spouse and unmarried children are not afflicted
with any contagious and loathsome disease
NBI clearance
BI Intelligence Clearance
Copy of passport of alien spouse and children showing
date of arrival and validity of stay
Birth Certificate of applicant / Filipino spouse;
in the absence of BC, submit the following:
Certification of the Local Civil
Registrar or National Statistics Office of its loss or non-availability
Any public document which will establish
the Filipino citizenship of the spouse
Affidavit of two (2) disinterested
persons indicating nationality of parents of Filipino spouse,
and his/her birthplace and birthday of applicant
Note: All foreign documents
or those documents executed or issued outside the Philippines must
be properly authenticated by officers in the appropriate foreign
service post (i.e. Philippine Embassy or Consular Office).
Change of Status to Quota Immigrant
REQUIREMENTS:
General application form duly accomplished and
notarized (BI Form No. RBR 98-O1)
True copy of applicants Passport showing the BI
stamp of admission and validity of stay
Affidavit of financial capacity with supporting
documents
Proof of investment in the Philippines of at least
$40,000 or possession of special qualification or skill
Medical Certificate from the Bureau of Quarantine
stating that the alien is not afflicted with any dangerous, contagious
or loathsome disease
Medical Certificate on the applicant's mental capacity
NICA Clearance
Proof of applicant's special qualification, which
has advance or will advance the Philippine national interest
NBI Clearance
Conversion to Non-quota Immigrant by Marriage
13a
Definition:
This visa is issued to a foreigner on the basis of his valid marriage
to a Philippine citizen.
Who Can Apply? To qualify for this visa, the applicant must
prove that :
he contracted a valid marriage with
a Philippine citizen;
the marriage is recognized under
existing Philippine laws;
there is no record of any derogatory
information against him in any local or foreign law enforcement
agency;
he is not afflicted with any dangerous,
contagious or loathsome disease;
he has sufficient financial capacity
to support a family and will not become a public charge;
he was allowed lawful entry into
the Philippines by immigration authorities; and
he has not been institutionalized
for any mental disability.
Requirements:
Letter of application
General application form duly accomplished and
notarized (BI form No. RBR 98-01)
2x2 picture to be attached to the application form
Birth certificate of applicant/Filipino spouse.
In the absence of B.C., the applicant(s) may submit the following
instead:
Certificate of the Local Civil Registrar or the
National Statistics Office of its loss or inavailability;
Any public document, which will establish the Filipino
citizenship of the spouse
Affidavit of two (2) disinterested persons indicating
nationality of parents of the Filipino spouse, birthplace (of
Filipino spouse) and birthdate of applicant
True copy of the Marriage Contract of the applicant
and the Filipino spouse
Certificate of legal capacity to contract marriage
issued by the Embassy or Consulate (of alien spouse) or official
family registry with authentic interpretation as certified by
the Philippine Embassy or Consulate
Joint affidavit of legal capacity to contract marriage,
stating any previous marriage(s) and the manner by which the marriage
was dissolved
If alien spouse was previously married, a duly authenticated true
copy of the divorce decree, dissolution of marriage or death certificate,
as the case may be
True copy of Birth Certificate of minor unmarried children under
21 years of age, if any
Joint affidavit of financial capacity and support executed by
the applicant and the alien spouse with supporting documents showing
capacity to support themselves
Medical Certificate from the Bureau of Quarantine
that alien spouse and unmarried children are not afflicted with
any contagious, dangerous and loathsome disease
AIDS Certificate(Clearance)
Clearance from the central government agency of
the applicant's country or place of residence, regarding any criminal
record the applicant may have, duly authenticated by the Philippine
Embassy or Consulate in or closest to the applicant's country
NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) Clearance
BI Intelligence Clearance
Copy of passport of alien spouse and children showing
date of arrival and validity of stay
Official Receipt of payment of visa fees
Note: All foreign documents
or those documents executed or issued outside the Philippines must
be properly authenticated by officers in the appropriate foreign
service post (i.e. Philippine Embassy or Consular Office).
Returning Former Filipino Citizen
Letter of application
General application form duly accomplished and
notarized ( Form No. RBR 98-01)
2 x 2 ID picture to be attached to the duly accomplished
application form
Birth certificate of applicant
Certificate of naturalization from a foreign country
Medical certificate from the Bureau of Quarantine
stating that the alien is not afflicted with any dangerous, contagious
or loathsome disease
Attach photocopy of passport
Affidavit stating that the applicant intends to
reside permanently in the Philippines with proof of financial
capacity
Certified true copy of marriage contract of applicant
and spouse
Birth Certificate of minor unmarried children
Affidavit of support and guarantee by the applicant,
copies of their respective passports
Note: All foreign documents
or those documents executed or issued outside the Philippines must
be properly authenticated by officers in the appropriate foreign
service post (i.e. Philippine Embassy or Consular Office).
Extension of Temporary Resident Visa
Letter request from the petitioner (Filipino spouse)
General Application Form (BI Form RBR 98-01) duly
accomplished
2x2 ID picture to be attached to the General Application
Form
Barangay Certificate that the petitioner and applicant
are, residents of the barangay and that they continue to live
together as husband and wife
Joint affidavit of the petitioner and applicant
stating that
they are husband and wife and are
living together
they are financially capable of supporting
each other
Supporting documents to prove financial capacity such
as bank certification of joint bank account, income tax return,
land titles, contract of employment, proof of salaries and pensions,
certificate of registration of business name, business permit, etc.
must be submitted.
Photo copies of the following
Passport with stamp visa
Alien Certificate of Registration
(ACR)
Certificate of Residence -Temporary
issued to Visitor (CRTV)
Certified true copies of the birth certificate
of parents if born in the Philippines
Certified true copy of the parent's marriage contract,
if born legitimate
ACR and ICR/NBCR of parents, if still living
In case of deceased parents, the death certificate
Family portraits, if any
Certified true copies of all pertinent school records,
from the primary up to the highest grade attended
If applicant is already employed, certificate of
employment from employer
Affidavit of two disinterested persons as witnesses
to the applicant's continuous residence in the Philippines
Other documents which may established the applicant's
continuous resident in the Philippines since birth
Certificate of registration and inclusive dates
of residence from the Barangay Official of the locality where
applicant is resident
INSTRUCTION:
Verify the status of the applicant and parents,
as the case may be, from the
Fingerprint and Identification Section. Use the
prescribed forms
In the absence of the Birth Certificate
of the applicant
Baptismal certificate (certified
true copy)
Certificate of Loss or Non-availability
of birth records by local civil registrar of the birthplace of
applicant or by the National Census and Statistics Office
Original copy of affidavit of two
(2) disinterested persons indicating the parent's names and nationalities,
place and date of birth of applicants
Other documentary evidence of Citizenship
by birth
Non-quota Immigrant 13e (Returning Resident)
Definition
This visa is issued to a person previously lawfully admitted into
the Philippines for a permanent residence, who is returning from
a temporary visit abroad to an unrelinguished residence in the Philippines.
Who Can Apply? Section 13(e) visa is issued to an alien who
was previously granted permanent residence in the Philippines, and
who is returning to an unrelinguished residence in the Philippines
after a temporary visit from abroad. The applicant must present
substantial proof that his original entry and admission to the Philippines
was lawful and his permanent residence is a valid one. He must also
established animus revertendi or an intention to return to an unrelinguished
residence in the Philippines.
Requirements:
Letter of application
General application form duly accomplished and
notarized (BI Form RBR 98-01)
2X2 ID pictures to be attached to the duly accomplished
form
Certified True Copy of applicant's passport with
BI stamp of admission
Alien Certifacate of Registration, Immigrant Certificate
of Residence, Reentry Permit, if any
Medical Certificate from the Bureau of Quarantine
stating that the alien is not afflicted with any dangerous, contagious
or loathsome disease
AIDS Clearance
NICA Clearance
Affidavit stating that the applicant intends to
reside permanently in the Philippines and evidence to show financial
capacity or fact that they have a means of living and will not
become a public charge
Affidavit of justification executed by the applicant
himself/herself stating why the applicant overstayed outside the
Philippines
Official Receipt of payment of visa fees
if spouse and minor unmarried children shall join the applicant
Respective passport of spouse and
unmarried minor children
Note: All foreign documents
or those documents executed or issued outside the Philippines must
be properly authenticated by officers in the appropriate foreign
service post (i.e. Philippine Embassy or Consular Office).
What is the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003?
Republic Act No. 9225 or the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003 is
a law passed on 29 August 2003 which grants natural-born Filipinos who have lost their Filipino citizenship through
naturalization in a foreign country, the opportunity to retain or re-acquire their Filipino citizenship.
Who are natural-born citizens of the Philippines?
Natural-born citizens of the Philippines are those who are citizens of the Philippine
from birth without having to perform any act to acquire or perfect their Philippine citizenship. There are:
Those whose fathers or mothers are citizens of the Philippines at the time of their birth; and
Those born before January 17, 1973, of Filipino mothers, who elect Philippine citizenship upon
reaching the age of maturity.
Is it possible for Filipino to hold dual citizenship or more than one
citizenship at the same time?
Before the passage of R.A. 9225, dual citizenship of some Filipinos already existed
as result of the operation of nationality laws. For example, a child born in the United States of America of Filipino
parents is an American citizen under US law, and a Filipino citizen under Philippine law. The child's American citizenship
is derived from the principle of jus soli or place of birth, while his Philippine citizenship is derived from the principle
of jus sanguinis or citizenship of his parents.
The passage of R.A. 9225 makes it possible for Filipinos to hold dual citizenship through
means other than by birth.
With the passage of R.A. 9225, what happens to a natural-born Filipino who becomes
naturalized in another country?
A natural born Filipino who becomes a naturalized citizen of another country is deemed not to
have lost his/her citizenship under the provisions of the said law.
How does one re-acquire Filipino citizenship?
A natural-born Filipino who lost his/her Filipino citizenship through naturalization in another
country may re-acquire Filipino citizenship through the following process:
For applications filed overseas
For applications filed in the Philippines
Does one who re-acquire Filipino citizenship need to reside in the Philippines?
Residency in the Philippines is not a requirement for those who re-acquire Filipino citizenship.
What rights and privileges is one entitled to on re-acquiring Filipino citizenship?
Filipinos who re-acquire Filipino citizenship under this Act may once again enjoy full civil, economic
and political rights under existing laws of the Philippines. Among these are:
right to own real property in the Philippines
right to engage in business or commerce as a Filipino
right to practice one's profession in accordance with law
right to travel with a Philippine passport
right to vote in Philippine elections under existing laws
other rights and privileges enjoyed by Filipino citizens
Can one who re-acquire Filipino citizenship vote in elections in the Philippines?
A person who re-acquire Filipino citizenship may vote in elections in the Philippines provided
that he/she complies with the residency requirement under existing Philippine election laws. The person may however, vote overseas
in Philippine national elections (for President, Vice-President, Senators and sectoral representatives) in accordance with the
provisions of the Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003.
Having re-acquired Filipino citizenship, can one hold public office in the Philippines?
Yes, provided that those seeking elective office meet the qualifications as required by the Philippine
Constitution and existing laws, and at the time of the filing of the certificate of candidacy, make a personal and sworn renunciation of any
and all foreign citizenship before a public officer authorized to administer an oath.
Those appointed to a public office shall make a sworn renunciation of the oath of allegiance to the country where they took their oath.
What is the effect of dual citizenship on the payment of income taxes?
Republic Act 8424 provides that only incomes derived from the Philippines are subject to taxation by the
Philippine government. However, in 1976, the Philippines and United States of America signed a treaty on taxation in order to avoid double
taxation for Filipinos who derive income from the United States and vice versa. The Philippine government is expected to negotiate similar
arrangements with other countries in the light of the enactment of the Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003.
After re-acquiring Filipino citizenship, can one practice his or her profession in the Philippines?
A person who has re-acquired Filipino citizenship may be able to practice his/her profession in the Philippines,
provided that he/she applies with the Professional Regulation Commission (or the Supreme Court for lawyers) for a license or permit to engage
in such practice.
As a Filipino citizen, can one's spouse who is a foreign national live in the Philippines?
An immigrant visa may be issued to a Filipino citizen's foreign spouse which entitles him/her to permanently
reside in the Philippines. Said visa may be obtained by applying at Philippine Embassies or Consulates. The validity of the visa, however,
is contingent upon the Filipino citizenship of his/her spouse.
If a Filipino citizen chooses to travel to the Philippines with his/her foreign spouse and children,
do the spouse and children need to secure additional travel documents from the Philippine Embassy or Consulate General beforehand?
Under the Balikbayan Law, a Filipino citizen's foreign spouse and children traveling to the Philippines
with him/her, do not need to secure other travel documents because they are entitled to a visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of
one (1) year, among other privileges.
What is the citizenship status of one's children after re-acquiring Filipino citizenship?
If his/her are unmarried and below 18 years of age upon re-acquisition of Filipino citizenship, his/her
children are also recognized as Filipino citizens under Philippine laws and are entitled to the rights and privileges attendant thereto.
What are required in applying for retention or re-acquisition of one's Filipino citizenship?
Those applying for retention or re-acquisition of Filipino citizenship need to submit the following:
completed petition under oath with forwarding address
right to engage in business or commerce as a Filipino
three (3) recent 2" x 2" photographs of the applicant (front, left side and right side views of the applicant over white background)
processing fee
authenticated copy of birth certificate from the National Statistics Office*, or original copy of Report of Birth issued by the
Philippine Embassy / Consulate with jurisdiction, or Birth Certificate issued by competent foreign authorities
*Note: Birth certificate can be requested for online through the NSO website: www.ecensus.com.ph
signed oath of allegiance
Is there a fee involved in re-acquiring one's Filipino citizenship under this Act?
Fees involved in reacquiring one's Filipino citizenship under this Act are minimal, consisting only
of the notarial and administrative fees prescribed by Philippine Embassies or Consulates, and the US$50 (for overseas applicants) or
PhP2,500 (for Philippine based applicants) processing fee prescribed by the Bureau of Immigration.
What happens to applicants who have taken their oath of allegiance before the
promulgation of the rules and procedures?
Fees involved in reacquiring one's Filipino citizenship under this Act are minimal, consisting only
of the notarial and administrative fees prescribed by Philippine Embassies or Consulates, and the US$50 (for overseas applicants) or
PhP2,500 (for Philippine based applicants) processing fee prescribed by the Bureau of Immigration.
Oath of Allegiance to
the Republic of the Philippines
"I _____________________, solemnly swear (or confirm) that, I will
support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and obey the law and legal orders
promulgated by the duly constituted authorities of the Philippines, and I hereby declare that I recognize
and accept the supreme authority of the Philippines and will maintain true faith and allegiance thereto, and that
I impose this obligation upon myself voluntarily without mental reservation or purpose of evation."
Frequently Asked Questions on Dual
Citizenship
What is Republic Act No.
9225?
Republic Act No. 9225 is an Act making the citizenship
of Filipinos who acquire foreign citizenship permanent, amendin
for the purpose Commonwealth Act No. 63.
RA 9225, which took effect on 17 September 2003,
declares that former natural-born Filipino citizens who acquired
foreign citizenship through naturalisation are deemed not to have
lost their Philippine citizenship under conditions provided in
the Act.
There former Filipinos can re-acquire/retain their
Philippine citizenship by taking the oath of allegiance to the
Republic of the Philippines.
Who is a natural-born Filipino citizens?
Under the Philippine Constitution, a natural-born
citizen is a person born of one or both parents who are Filipino
citizens at the time of birth.
Does the law RA 9225 apply to dual citizens?
RA 9225 does not apply to dual citizens, ie, those
who have both Philippine citizenship as well as foreign citizenship
not acquired through naturalisation.
A child born of parents who are both Filipino citizens
(at the time of birth) in a country that adheres to the jus soli
principle (eg, the United States) is a dual citizen. The child,
who is a natural-born Filipino because the Philippines adheres
to the jus sanginis principle, is also entitled to apply for a
US passport.
Jus soli (right of soil) is the legal principle
that a person's nationality at birth is determined by the place
of birth (ie, the territory of a given state).
Jus sanguinis (right of blood) is the legal principle
that, at birth, an individual acquires the nationality of his/her
natural parent/s.
A chld born of one parent who is a Filipino citizen
(at the time of birth) and of one foreign parent (eg, Australian)
whose country adheres to the jus sanguinis principle is a dual
citizen and is entitled to apply for both Philippine and Australian
passports.
A child born of one parent who is a Filipino citizen
(at the time of birth) and of one foreign parent (eg, Australian)
whose country adheres to the jus sanguinis principle in a country
that adheres to the jus soli principle (eg, US) would be entitled
to apply for Philippine, Australian and US passports.
How do I prove that I am a natural-born
Filipino?
A former natural-born citizen, who was born in the
Philippines, shall submit the NSO-authenticated copy of his or
her birth certificate.
A former natural-born citizen, who was born abroad,
shall present a copy of the Report of Birth issued by the Philippine
Embassy or Consulate and, in applicable cases, the original copy
of the Birth Certificate by competent foreign authorities.
What is the procedure in applying and
what documents are required in order to apply?
Applicant shall present a copy of his/her Birth
Certificate issued or duly-authenticated by the National Statistics
Office (NSO) in Manila.
Applicant accomplishes form entitled “Petition
for Dual Citizenship and Issuance of Identification Certificate
(IC) pursuant to RA 9225” and attaches three (3) 2”x2” photographs
showing the front, left side and right side views of the applicant.
Applicant submits duly-accomplished petition to
the Philippine Consulate / Embassy together with the photos, birth
certificate and a valid ID.
(Note: applicants who are married and who wish to
use their married names must submit a copy of their marriage certificate).
Applicant pays a processing fee of US$ 50.00 and
is assigned a schedule for his/her oath of allegiance before a
consular officer. Applicant takes his/her oath.
Applicant is given the original copy of his notarized
oath of allegiance together with an Order of Approval issued by
the Philippine Consulate General.
The Philippine Consulate General forwards to the
Bureau of Immigration in Manila the petition, oath, order of approval,
and other supporting documents for issuance of an Identification
Certificate.
The Bureau of Immigration issues an Identification
Certificate (IC) and forwards it to the applicant through the
Philippine Consulate General.
What is the implementing agency of RA
9225?
Administrative Order No. 91, Section 1 designates
the Bureau of Immigration (BI), in consultation with the Department
of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Justice (DOJ), Office
of the Civil Registrar-General of the National Statistics Office
(NSO), as the implementing agency of RA 9225
Where do I apply for re-acquisition of
Philippine Citizenship if I am in the Philippines?
A former natural-born Filipino citizen who is already
in the Philippines and registered in the Bureau of Immigration
shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner of Immigration
for the cancellation of the Alien Certicate of Registration (ACR)
and issuance of an Identification Certificate (IC) as the case
may be, under RA 9225.
A former natural-born citizen who is already in
the Philippines but has not registered with the BI within 60 days
from date of arrival shall file a petition under oath to the Commissioner
of Immigration for the issuance of an IC under RA 9225.
Where do I apply for re-acquisition of
Philippine Citizenship if I am overseas?
A former natural-born citizen who is abroad but
is a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath to the
nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for evaluation. Thereafter,
the Embassy or Consulate shall forward the entire records to the
Commissioner of Immigration for the cancellation of the ACR and
issuance of an IC under RA 9225.
A former natural-born citizen who is abroad and
is not a BI-registered alien shall file a petition under oath
to the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate for the issuance
of an IC under RA 9225.
What is the Oath of Allegiance?
The Oath of Allegiance is the final act that confers
Philippine citizenship. It reads as follows:
"I,________________, solemnly swear that I
will support and defend the Constitution of the Republic of the
Philippines and obey the laws and local orders promulgated by
the duly constituted authorities of the Philippines, and I hereby
declare that I recognise and accept the supreme authority of the
Philippines and will maintain true faith and allegiance thereto,
and that I impose this obligation upon myself voluntarily without
mental reservation or purpose of evasion."
Can the conferment of Philippine citizenship
be revoked?
The conferment of Philippine citizenship under the
IRR shall no longer be subject to the affirmation by the Secretary
of Justice. However, Philippine citizenship may be revoked by
competent authority upon a substantive finding of fraud, misrepresentation
or concealment on the part of the applicant.
Can my foreign spouse also become a Filipino
citizen under RA 9225?
No, the law does not apply to the foreign spouse.
He/she has the following option if he/she wishes to reside permanently
in the Philippines: (a) apply for naturalisation; (b) apply for
a permanent resident visa.
Can my children (minor or aged 18 years
old or over) also acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225?
According to Section 4 of RA 9225 (Derivative Citizenship),
the unmarried child, whether legitimate, illegitimate or adopted,
below eighten (18) years of age, of those who re-acquire Philippine
citizenship under this Act shall be deemed citizens of the Philippines.
A married child, although a minor, cannot therefore
be included in the petition of his/her parent.
Children 18 years old and over do not qualify to
acquire Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. They have the same
options that are open to the foreign spouse.
What is the procedure for derivative
acquisition of Philippine citizenship?
The petition under oath has the option to list the
names and details of any minor, unmarried children. The applicant
should include a copy of the Report of Birth and the original
copy of Record of Birth for each minor child.
The Embassy will clarify from Bureau of Immigration
the exact procedure in case of the minor children and whether
the BI will issue to them a Certificate of Identification.
After I have re-acquired Philippine citizenship,
can I apply for a Philippine passport?
Yes, and so can the minor children who are deemed
to have acquired Philippine citizenship under RA 9225. You would
need to comply with the requirements for first-time passport applicants.
What rights and privileges
will dual citizens enjoy?
Those who retain or reacquire their Philippine Citizenship
under RA 9225 shall enjoy full civil and political rights and
be subject to all attendant liabilities and responsibilities under
existing laws of the Philippines and the following conditions:
Those intending to exercise their right of suffrage
must meet the requirements under Section 1, Article V of the Constitution,
Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as “The Overseas
Absentee Voting Act 0f 2003” and other existing laws.
Under the Act, the right to vote or be elected
or appointed to any public office in the Philippines cannot be
exercised by, or extended to, those who are candidates for or
are occupying any public office in the country of which they are
naturalized citizens and/or those who are in active service as
commissioned or non-commissioned officers in the armed forces
of the country which they are naturalized citizens.
Those seeking elective public office in the Philippines
shall meet the qualifications for holding such public office as
required by the Constitution and existing laws and, at the time
of filing of the certificate of candidacy, make a personal and
sworn renunciation of any and all foreign citizenship before any
public officer authorized to administer an oath.
Those appointed to any public office shall subscribe
and swear to an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines
and its duly constituted authorities prior to their assumption
of office: Provided, That they renounce their oath of allegiance
to the country where they took that oath;
Can I now acquire land and other properties
or engage in business?
As provided for under the 1987 Philippine Constitution,
a Filipino citizen is entitled to purchase land and other properties
and engage in business. There is no limit in terms of area or
size of land or real property he/she could acquire/purchase under
his/her name. This right would now apply to former natural-born
Filipinos who have re-acquired Philippine citizenship under RA
9225.
Can I now reside in the Philippines without
having to apply for entry visa?
Former natural born Filipinos who have re-acquired
Philippine citizenship may now reside in the Philippines continuously
without having to apply for entry visa. If the foreign spouse
and/or child wish to also reside permanently in the Philippines,
they may opt to apply for naturalisation as a Filipino citizen
or apply for a permanent resident visa.
If he/she does not wish to reside permanent in the
Philippines, he/she could visit the country as a Balikbayan (refers
to a Filipino citizen who is out of the country continuously for
at least one year). The foreign spouse or child may enter the
country and stay for up to a year visa-free provided the spouse
or child is accompanying or travelling with the Balikbayan when
the Balikbayan goes home to the Philippines.
As a dual citizen, how long can I stay
in the Philippines?
Having reacquired your citizenship, you can stay
in the Philippines for as long as you want without having to pay
an immigration fees. You can even choose to retire or permanently
settle back in the Philippines. As a Filipino citizen, you are
subject to duties and other obligations imposed on other ordinary
Filipinos, such as paying the necessary community tax residence
and other tax liabilities in accordance with the tax laws of the
Philippines.
Will I now be required to pay income
tax and other taxes? Am I exempt from paying the travel tax?
In accordance with existing laws, income earned
in the Philippines is subject to the payment of tax. Filipinos
who re-acquire citizenship and opt to reside and work in the Philippines
will pay the income tax due at the end of each fiscal year. They
are also subject to other obligations and liabilities, such as
the community tax and residence tax.
Countries routinely forge bilateral agreements in
order that their respective citizens who earn income overseas
do not pay income tax twice.
Filipinos who have re-acquired citizenship, as long
as they reside permanently overseas, also enjoy the travel tax
exemption extended to Filipino citizens permanently residing in
other countries, the OFWs and their dependents.
As a dual citizen,
am I allowed to practice my profession in the Philippines (e.g.
doctor) ?
Under the law, those intending to practice their
profession in the Philippines shall apply with the proper authority
for a license or permit to engage in such practice.
If I need to get more details on the
rules and procedures for the implementation of RA 9225, which
government office do I contact in the Philippines?
Under Administrative Order No. 92 Series of
2004 dated 12 January 2004, the Bureau of Immigration has been
designated as the government agency in charge of formulating the
rules and procedures for the implementation of Republic Act No.
9225. The contact details of Immigration Commissioner Alipio F.
Fernandez are as follows: Office of the Commisioner, Bureau of
Immigration, Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines.
(Tel. No. (63)2 527-3265 / Fax No. (63-2) 527-3279)
ENTRY REGULATIONS
Valid passport. Except for stateless persons and those from countries
with which the Philippines has no diplomatic relations, all visitors
may enter the country without visas and may stay for 21 days provided
they have tickets for onward journey. Holders of Hong Kong and
Taiwan passports must have special permits. Visas and special
permits may be obtained from Philippine embassies and consulates. More info.
AIRPORT FACILITIES
The international airports have adequate traveler facilities:
tourist information & assistance counters, hotel & travel
agency representatives, banks & ATMs, postal service, telephone
booths, and medical clinics, among others. Baggage carts and porter
services are available for free.
The airports are handicapped-friendly. Wheelchairs are available on request from the airline ground staff.
AIRPORT FEES
P550 for international departure and P100 for local departure
(paid in Philippine pesos only). Departing passengers for international
destinations are advised to check with airport or tourist information
counters (Tel. Nos. 524-1703; 832-2964) the departure fees which
may change without notice.
CUSTOMS
Visitors are advised to fill in the Baggage Declaration Form before
disembarking to facilitate Customs examination. Visitors carrying
more than US$ 3,000 are to declare the amount at the Central Bank
of the Philippines counter situated at the Customs area. Foreign
currency taken out upon departure must not exceed the amount brought
in. Departing passengers are not allowed to bring out more than
PhP 1,000 in local currency.
Visas
Various rules and regulations have to be observed depending on the intended length of stay in the Philippines.
21 days
A valid passport is required of all travelers. Visas are not required of bona fide tourists for a stay of up to 21 days provided they possess air or ship tickets for their onward or return journey.
The privilege to be admitted to the Philippines without a visa for 21 days does not apply to those who intend to study, work or engage in business activities, to nationals of countries with which the Philippines maintains no diplomatic ties; to stateless persons; and to nationals of countries which do not extend reciprocal privileges to citizens of the Philippines.
Those tourists who have been admitted for 21 days without an entry visa, if leaving The Country within 21 days are exempt from payment of immigration fees. The stamp of admission in their passports is sufficient for departure clearance.
59 days
Visas for 59 days may be obtained from any Philippine embassy or consulate. Visitors who arrive without a visa and wish to stay longer than the authorized initial period of 21 days, may extend their visa to up to 59 days with the Commission on Immigration. The extension is called a visa waiver and costs 300 pesos plus a 10 peso research fee, as well as an annual report fee of 130 pesos if the stay extends from one calendar year to the next.
A 59 day visa obtained abroad is generally valid for six months, meaning one can enter The Country anytime during the six months after the date of issue of the visa, and can stay for 59 days, beginning with the day of entry. The visa can be for single or multiple entry.
In many cases the 59 day visa is without charge when issued abroad. Whether and how much it costs depends on The Country where the embassy is located and on the nationality of the applicant.
59 days to 6 months
Extension of the 59 day visa can be requested. Grants are always for an additional whole number of months. Several fees have to be paid for the extension. These are:
Those who paid for their 59 day stay are exempt.
Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) of 250 pesos; but those who already had an ACR issued in the same year just need a re-issue ACR, which costs only 150 pesos.
Alien Head Tax of 125 pesos; there is an exemption for children under 14 years of age who pay 50 pesos for this exemption
Extension Fee of 100 pesos per month
Legal Research Fees of 10 pesos each on Visa Fee, ACR and Head Tax.
Annual Report Fee of 130 pesos if the extension reaches from one calendar year to the next
If one stays longer than 59 days, a fee of 250 pesos is charged before departure for the Emigration Clearance Certificate. An additional 10 pesos has to be paid for legal research.
Longer than 6 Months
Those who stay longer than 6 months are classified as temporary visitors. Temporary visitors may stay in The Country for business, leisure or for reasons of health. Also classified as temporary visitors are sailors serving on vessels arriving at a port of the Philippines; accredited officials of a foreign government; students over 18 years of age with sufficient means of support who take up higher studies; those with prearranged employment.
Those staying longer than six months have to secure a Certificate of Temporary Visitor which costs 400 pesos. For every month of extension after six months, 100 pesos has to be paid.
Before leaving, payment of 250 pesos for an Emigration Clearance Certificate and 10 pesos research fee also are due. With a stay of over 6 months, one has to go through a lot of formalities before getting this Emigration Clearance Certificate. Five passport photos are required and fingerprints are taken.
Longer than 1 year
Aliens staying longer than one year have to pay Travel Tax when leaving The Country , just like any Philippine citizen who leaves. This tax is 1,620 pesos, and is generally paid together with the airline ticket.
Balikbayans
A Balikbayan (in English: Home-comer) is defined as a Filipino citizen who has been continuously out of The Country for more than a year, a Philippine overseas worker, or a former Philippine citizen naturalized in another country, as well as his immediate family members.
While Philippine citizens are anyway not affected by immigration requirements, those balikbayans who hold other than Philippine passports receive some preferential treatment under immigration laws.
As was reported by the Manila Bulletin January 11, 1990, the then acting Commissioner Andrea Domingo issued new guidelines according to which non-Philippine balikbayans can stay in The Country for one year visa-free.
Immigration/Deportation
The office of the Commission on Immigration is located in Intramuros on Magallanes Drive near the General Post Office. Visa extensions can be made there personally, or they can be commissioned to an experienced travel agency. Southeast Travel at the corner of Del Pilar St and Pedro Gil St is the one travel agency in the tourist belt for years handling the largest number of visa extensions.
Those who want to go through the procedures on their own should be aware that sometimes they will easily spend a whole day on paper work or have to pay the additional official Express Fee of 250 pesos. Official receipts of the extensions have to be kept as they serve as evidence that the extension stamp in the passport is not a fake.
Fake visa extensions used to be made even in the office of the Commission on Immigration. Often tourists got their visa extended with the unofficial help of officials or fixers inside the Immigration building who, to the tourist, seemed just to be friendly officers. These tourists regularly ended up with fake extensions without knowing. After all, they dealt with officers (as it appeared because they were wearing shirts with office seals), and they paid the full amounts, too.
Some people who regularly visited the Philippines during the last few years claim, that the Commission on Immigration regards as suspicious such regular visits. They therefore opted to get new passports issued abroad before re-entering The Country .
Customs
Tourists may bring in free of duty: Personal effects, jewelry for normal use, a small quantity of perfume, 400 cigarettes or 2 tins of pipe tobacco, and two bottles of alcoholic beverage of not more than one liter each.
Permission is required for the import of animals from the Bureau of Animal Industry, 2nd fl, Rita Legarda Bldg, Ramon Magsaysay Blvd, Sta Mesa, Manila.
But not only what can be brought into The Country is regulated. What may be taken out depends also on the law. Actually, the list of items prohibited from export is quite long.
The regulations on the exportation of Philippine currency are somehow curious. There is a limit of 500 pesos. Tourists shouldn't get angry if customs examiners tell them to spend additional amounts before passing, and they should refrain from tearing bills. A Japanese tourist, Chiaki Ueda, learned this the hard way. According to a report in the Daily Globe of July 30, 1988, he tore 1300 pesos after being told by a customs examiner that he couldn't take the money with him. Subsequently, he was arrested. Authorities than informed him that according to Central Bank Circular 1028, it's a criminal act to deface or mutilate Philippine currency. The offense is, according to the Globe, punishable by a fine of 20,000 pesos and/or imprisonment for five years.
Taken from Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Citizenship and Immigration Canada has introduced a new simplified application process for federal skilled workers and business immigrants.
Beginning September 1, 2006, most Federal Economic Class applicants are only required to provide the modified application form (IMM 0008SW or IMM 0008BU) and processing fees at the time of application. Supporting documents will need to be provided only when the visa office is ready to assess the application.
Q1: Why has CIC introduced the simplified application process
for Federal Economic Class applications?
CIC is committed to client-focused service delivery. CIC recognized
that procedural changes could be made to simplify the initial application
requirements for Federal Economic Class applicants waiting to have their
applications assessed.
Q2: When did the simplified application process come into effect?
The simplified application process came into effect on September 1,
2006.
Q3: What does the new simplified application process entail?
Simplified kits and forms have been developed to guide applicants through
the new process. Applicants are required to fill out and submit a
three-page form plus the processing fees, which secures them a place
in the queue. All supporting documents are requested later, approximately
four months before the visa office is ready to assess the application.
A letter of receipt provides advice to the applicant on labour-market
preparation encouraging prospective immigrants to make maximum use of
the waiting period by, for example, enrolling in courses to upgrade their
language skills.
Q4: What does the supporting documentation to be provided later
include?
Supporting documentation would include education documents or other
certificates attesting to the educational level, employment letters confirming
work experience, language test results, police certificates, birth and
marriage certificates, and bank statements confirming the applicant’s
funds.
Q5: Will this new simplified application process be used at
all visa offices?
Beginning September 1, 2006, the simplified application process is the norm at all visa offices except Buffalo, U.S.A. For applicants
who submit their applications in Buffalo for processing by Buffalo and
the other U.S. offices, the regular application process (supporting documents
submitted at the same time as the application form) continues to apply.
Q6: Why will the new simplified application process not be used
by Buffalo and other U.S. offices?
Buffalo and other U.S. offices mainly process applicants who currently
meet Canadian labour market needs. This means that most applicants are
already in Canada and have some type of arranged employment. The regular
application process continues to apply since, by policy, these applicants
are processed on a priority basis.
Q7: Can a foreigner living in the United States who has legal
status submit a simplified application?
No. Since Buffalo continues to use the regular application process,
American citizens and other residents of the United States must submit
a full application to our visa office in Buffalo, which will then forward
it to the visa office closest to the applicant’s residence.
Q8: If I am using the Simplified Application Process, do I have
to notify the visa office if I change jobs?
No. You only have to notify us if you get a new address (postal or e-mail)
or hire a new immigration representative, or if you want to withdraw your application.
You do not have to notify us of any other changes until the visa office
contacts you (about four months before the office is ready to assess
your application).
Q9: I have already submitted my application. Do I have to start
over?
No. Applications that were already submitted will be processed
as usual. Full applications received after the September 1 implementation date are accepted, but the supporting documents will be returned to the applicant
until the visa office requests them.
Q10: Why do you return the supporting documents?
The simplified application process is intended to help clients by eliminating
the burden of continuously having to submit documents while in the queue.
It also allows CIC to save duplication of work as well as storage
space. In addition, given application processing times, most documents
will have to be updated if the applicant’s situation changes (e.g.
marital status, job, education, and financial situation).
Q11: I have been nominated under a province’s immigration
program. Do I submit a simplified application?
No. Individuals applying under a Provincial Nomination Program do not
submit a simplified application since these applications are processed
on a priority basis.
Q12: Will my processing fees be reimbursed if I decide to withdraw
my application?
Yes. If you contact the visa office before they contact you (i.e. before
the assessment of your application begins), you will be reimbursed.
Q13: Will this initiative reduce processing times?
No. The simplified application process however reduces the amount
of information applicants need to submit when they apply while still
securing them a place in the queue, and they do not have to send supporting
documents twice.
Q14: I have just taken a language proficiency test at a designated organization (such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) or the Test d’évaluation de français (TEF)). Can I submit the results now?
If you apply after September 1, 2006, (under the simplified application process) no supporting documents are accepted at the outset. Please only submit your language test results once you have been asked by the visa office to submit supporting documentation. Any documents submitted prior to this will be returned. If you take the language test within one year of submitting your simplified application, those results remain valid and will be accepted as supporting documentation by the visa office.
TSA has changed security screening procedures at all U.S. airports, banning liquids and gels at security checkpoints and aboard flights. This means that you will not be permitted to bring any liquids or gels past the screening checkpoint or on board, with a few exceptions. We will allow small doses of liquid medications through the security checkpoint and onboard airplanes, a slight adjustment from the original ban, which was implemented on August 10.
We also now require all passengers to remove their shoes so they may be x-rayed with their carry-on bags.
While we can not provide a comprehensive list of liquids that will and will not be permitted on board, the primary exceptions to this rule are:
Baby formula or breast milk when traveling with an infant
Prescription medication, provided the prescription matches the passenger's name
Laptop computers, cellular phones, iPods, and other portable electronic devices are still allowed on board an aircraft. These items must still be screened at the security checkpoint.
While baby formula, breast milk, and certain medications will be permitted past the screening checkpoint and on board, please be aware that these items will be subject to physical inspection. You will not be required to taste these liquids in the presence of a security officer.
We suggest, to the fullest extent possible, that you pack all liquids and gels – including shampoo, toothpaste, perfume, hair gel, suntan lotion and all other items with similar consistency in your checked baggage to minimize any delays at the screening checkpoint.
Some solid or powdered cosmetics items are permitted past the checkpoint; however, this is left to the discretion of the Security Officer. To minimize delays and hassle, we recommend that you pack all cosmetics in your checked baggage.
Beverages purchased in the boarding area (beyond the screening checkpoint) will not be allowed on board, and must be consumed before boarding.
In the event a Security Officer identifies a prohibited item in your baggage, you will be required to either check that item with your checked baggage, or dispose of it at the checkpoint.
These polices apply to ALL domestic and international flights originating in the United States, including flights to the United Kingdom. For flights to the United Kingdom, TSA security officers will perform an additional physical inspection of all carry on baggage at the departure gate. For all other flights random gate inspections will be conducted.
Please note that for flights originating in the United Kingdom, local policies regarding carry on baggage will apply. These policies tend to be more stringent than United States policy. You may wish to check with you air carrier for additional details on United Kingdom requirements.
Helpful Tips For When Arriving At The Airport
Due to increased security measures, we recommend that domestic passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to their flight. International passengers are encouraged to allow additional time and to check with the air carrier.
To expedite the screening process, please pack all liquids and gels - including shampoo, toothpaste, perfume, hair gel, suntan lotion and all other items with similar consistency in your checked baggage. Carrying liquids of any sort to the screening checkpoint will cause you delays, and will most likely result in the item being confiscated.
Every passenger can assist in ensuring that flights are safe and hassles minimized:
Pack lightly, without clutter, to facilitate easy screening
Ensure that all liquids are packed in your checked baggage
Do not bring liquids or lighters to the security checkpoint
Review the Permitted and Prohibited Items List prior to traveling to expedite passing through the screening checkpoint
Cooperate with TSA personnel at checkpoints and with airline personnel at gates
Be attentive and vigilant to any suspicious activity and report it to authorities
Passengers traveling to the United Kingdom will be subject to more extensive security screening processes, including a physical inspection of baggage at the departure gate.
As a customer service initiative, we are providing security checkpoint wait time information to assist travelers in planning for their next flight. The wait times are historical so please note actual wait time may vary depending on factors including weather delays, which result in increased passenger levels.
When calculating arrival time, remember to build in time for non-security related issues, including parking, and ticketing/checking in with your airline. Please consult your airline and airport for additional guidance on arrival time. Find your security checkpoint wait time.
Your assistance in helping us respond to this aviation security threat quickly and effectively is appreciated.
Can i take it?
Due to enhanced security measures liquids, gels, lotions and other items of similar consistency will not be permitted in carry-on baggage. These types of items must be packed in your checked baggage.
Additionally, liquids, gels and lotions purchased beyond the checkpoint but must be disposed of before boarding the aircraft.
To ensure the health and welfare of certain air travelers the following items are permitted.
Small amounts of Baby formula and breast milk if a baby or small child is traveling
Liquid prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket
Up to 5 oz. (148ml) of liquid or gel low blood sugar treatment
Up to 4 oz. of essential non-prescription liquid medications including saline solution, eye care products and KY jelly
Gel-filled bras and similar prostethics
Gel-filled wheelchair cushions
Life support and life sustaining liquids such as bone marrow, blood products, and transplant organs carried for medical reasons
You are permitted to bring solid cosmetics and personal hygiene items as such lipstick, lip balm and similar solids. Please remember these items must be solid and not liquid, gel or aerosol.
Please keep in mind, that while we can not provide an exhaustive list of items covering all eventualities, all liquids, gels, or aerosols of any kind are prohibited at security checkpoints, in airport sterile areas, and aboard aircraft. You can pack these items in your checked baggage.
We ask for your cooperation in the screening process by being prepared before you arrive. We also ask that you follow the guidelines above and try not to over-think these guidelines. Please pack liquids, gels, and aerosols in your checked baggage even if you do not normally check a bag.
In addition to liquids, gels, and aerosols numerous other potentially dangerous items are not permitted in carry-on baggage. We strongly encourage travelers to read more about previously prohibited items to avoid complications during screening.
This month's issue of Mabuhay Magazine (Philippine Airlines' international inflight mag) features Vietnam on its cover, but the inside pages contain articles about some of Davao's best beaches, written by ME and beautiful images taken by my partner and award winning professional photographer, Rhonson Ng. We will upload the actual photos in a separate album in Multiply. For now I dutifully took snapshots of the large image files (tamad magscan) to post it in Multiply. (
The
Philippine Eagle Nature Centre in Calinan treats visitors
to a rare glimpse of one of the world’s most endangered
bird species, the Philippine Eagle or Pithecophaga Jefferyi.
Now close to extinction, the Philippine Eagle’s last
remaining natural abode is in the Mt Apo range.
Davao City may now be a sprawling metropolis but its roots
are steeped in Mindanao culture. The city was originally inhabited
by eight tribes, including the Bagobos, Mandayas, Manobos
and T’bolis. The cultural inheritance of Davao City
is showcased at the Davao Museum at Insular Village. Here
can be seen costumes, accessories and implements of the different
tribes of Davao.
Mindanao is the food of the Philippines; Davao, its fresh
fruit platter. Davao City’s many farms are major exporters
of bananas, pineapples, mangosteens, durians, and pomelos,
among others. These fruits are abundant in the markets and
stalls lining the city’s streets at a fraction of their
price elsewhere in the country.
At
2,500 feet above sea level, this mountain resort has some
of the best views of Davao City and the Davao Gulf. Nestled
in the city’s lone pine forest, the 40-hectare Eden
Nature Park & Resort is perched on the slopes of Mt Talomo.
Some
700 metres south of Davao City is the Island Garden City of
Samal, an archipelago of nine islands in the Davao Gulf. Pride
of the place on Samal island belongs to the Pearl Farm Beach
Resort, a 45-minute boat ride from Davao City. The 14-hectare
resort was once, as its name suggests, a pearl farm where
thousands of white-lipped oysters transported from the Sulu
Sea were cultivated for their pink, white and gold pearls.
Now transformed into a luxury resort, Pearl Farm remains luminescent
with its promise of privacy, elegance and comfort.
The
Philippines’ highest peak at 2,594 metres, the majestic
Mt Apo is a favourite of hiking and adventure travel enthusiasts.
rapids,
lakes, hot springs, sulphur pillars, and endangered plant
and animal species, including the Philippine Eagle and the
waling waling orchid known scientifically as the Vanda Sanderiana.
235-665, 230-606 & 209-187
Valid passport. Except for stateless persons and those from countries
with which the Philippines has no diplomatic relations, all visitors
may enter the country without visas and may stay for 21 days provided
they have tickets for onward journey. Holders of Hong Kong and
Taiwan passports must have special permits. Visas and special
permits may be obtained from Philippine embassies and consulates. 
Every passenger can assist in ensuring that flights are safe and hassles minimized:
