Foreign tourists transiting through Manila via Philippine Airlines (PAL) can now enjoy the city sights by way of the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Transit Tours.
These excursions take the form of a safe, expertly curated, and time-efficient bus tour showcasing the capital’s iconic attractions.
Earlier today, 19th January, DOT officials released a statement saying that the Transit Tours are accessible through PAL’s official website as well as the LovePH mobile application.
This makes it easier for eligible passengers to book and explore Manila’s culture and heritage, instead of just loitering around the airport while waiting for connecting flights.
The DOT said the partnership with PAL supports its broader strategy to enhance visitor experience and promote the Philippines even to travelers just passing through its main gateway.
According to tourism secretary Christina Frasco: “We express our warmest gratitude to our colleagues in the private sector for supporting our initiative to maximize the potential of our tourist spots and extend an invitation to foreign travelers who are just passing by,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.
Frasco added that the program creates multiple opportunities across the tourism value chain, enabling Filipinos to earn a living whilst serving as an opportunity for the country’s tourism sector to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Time meaningfully spent
The programme was initially launched in December 2025 as part of the efforts to improve the country’s gateways while generating livelihoods for local tourism stakeholders.
It is open to passengers from visa-free countries with layovers of at least eight hours, including a two-hour allowance before and after the tour to cover immigration and airport procedures.
Starting 30th January, the Transit Tours will offer trips to four key destinations: Intramuros and the National Museum in Manila for morning schedules, and world-class entertainment venues Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Okada Manila in Parañaque City later in the day.
Each tour aboard the 49-seater air-conditioned bus runs for a total of four hours: two hours for travel to and from the airport and two hours for the actual tour, which includes one hour with a DOT-accredited guide and one hour of free time.
The tour costs US$50 per person, inclusive of entrance fees, insurance coverage for accidental death and medical expenses, bottled water, and a poncho in case of rain.
