Filipino customs regulations

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 6/20/2024

Duty Free Allowances

Stack of suitcases
A stack of vintage suitcases sits against a window with a view of an airplane taking off into the sky, symbolizing travel and the anticipation of a journey.

Hello there, globe-trotter! As you pack your suitcases and get ready to jet off to the vibrant Philippines - the gem of Southeast Asia - let's chat about some of the logistics you might overlook amidst the exhilaration. One such not-so-glamorous but essential topic is the duty-free allowances. But fret not! This potentially complex subject is set to get a touch friendlier.

Travelers love a good bargain, and the Philippines offers this in spades when it comes to duty-free allowances. Upon arrival, non-resident travelers over 18 years can bring in up to $200 worth of personal goods. Pretty neat, eh? One should bear in mind, though, that any goods above this limit are subject to local taxes.

Tax Free Allowances

Moving on to the pièce de résistance - the tax-free allowances. Here's where things get even more interesting (and budget-friendly) for your adventure. The Philippines extends the privilege of a tax-free allowance for purchase up to PHP 10,000 for any souvenirs or items that catch your fancy while you're out exploring the local markets. So, you can nab that handwoven 'banig' mat or the vibrant 'Barong Tagalog' without fretting about the tax man!

Alcohol Allowance

Now, what's a good vacation without a taste of the local spirits, right? In the Philippines, you can taste potent local brews like 'lambanog' or 'tuba' and if they tickle your palate, carry some back home to share with friends. How much, you ask? Well, you are allowed to bring two liters of alcoholic drinks without being slapped with customs duties. Consider it a souvenir from the vibrant Filipino nightlife.

Just remember, all this information is to give you a head start for your exciting journey and things can change as per governmental regulations. Always good to have the official Bureau of Customs Philippines website (https://customs.gov.ph) bookmarked to stay updated. Happy adventures!

Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

Follow on Twitter