Philippine Airlines Offers Exclusive Layover Tours for Foreign Travelers – Explore Manila During Your Flight Stop!

As part of an exciting initiative to enhance tourism experiences in the Philippines, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has launched the Transit Tours for foreign visitors transiting through Manila. In partnership with Philippine Airlines (PAL), the DOT offers an opportunity for travelers to explore the cultural and historical richness of Manila, rather than waiting idly at the airport during layovers. This initiative aims to not only offer a unique experience for visitors but also supports the country’s tourism industry by creating economic opportunities for local stakeholders.

Accessibility and Booking Process

The Transit Tours can be easily accessed and booked through PAL’s official website or the LovePH mobile application, making it convenient for eligible passengers to plan their tours. The program is available to travelers from visa-free countries who have a layover of at least eight hours, with a two-hour allowance before and after the tour to accommodate immigration and airport procedures. This setup ensures that tourists can enjoy a brief, yet fulfilling, experience of Manila’s cultural landmarks without the stress of missing their next flight.

A Collaborative Effort to Boost Local Tourism

The initiative, which was launched in December 2025, was introduced to improve the Philippines’ tourism infrastructure while providing a way for visitors to experience the capital city’s iconic attractions. According to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, the program is aimed at creating more opportunities for both travelers and local businesses. The tours not only provide foreign visitors with an opportunity to explore Manila’s rich culture and heritage but also create economic benefits for local tourism stakeholders by generating new tourism-driven incomes.

Frasco also emphasized how the program can benefit the broader tourism value chain. She explained that the Transit Tours offer an opportunity for travelers to explore the city during layovers, allowing Filipinos to earn a livelihood, while also improving the overall visitor experience. This initiative reflects the DOT’s commitment to making the Philippines an attractive destination for tourists, even for those who are just passing through.

The Tour Experience

Starting January 30, 2026, the Transit Tours will include trips to four key destinations, carefully chosen to showcase the best of Manila’s heritage and entertainment:

• Intramuros and the National Museum of Manila for the morning tour schedule.
• Solaire Resort and Okada Manila in Parañaque City, which are world-class entertainment venues, for those interested in a luxurious experience.

Each tour lasts a total of four hours: two hours for the travel to and from the airport and two hours for exploring the attractions. During this time, passengers will have one hour with a DOT-accredited guide to learn about the history and significance of the sites, followed by one hour of free time to explore at their own pace.

Inclusive Pricing and Added Benefits

For just USD 50 per person, the tour package covers various inclusions to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. The price includes entrance fees to the attractions, insurance coverage for accidental death and medical expenses, bottled water, and a poncho in case of rain. Passengers will be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned 49-seater bus, which offers a smooth and relaxing ride as they explore Manila.

This affordable tour option is designed to cater to foreign tourists who may not have planned to explore the city but are now given the opportunity to do so during their layovers, enhancing their overall travel experience.

Support for the Local Tourism Industry

The DOT’s collaboration with Philippine Airlines is seen as a crucial step in enhancing visitor experience and promoting the Philippines as a tourist destination. This initiative does more than just provide foreign travelers with access to Manila’s tourist attractions. It also plays a key role in bolstering the local tourism economy by bringing tourists to key locations, thereby supporting a wide range of local businesses, from transport and tour operators to vendors and cultural institutions.

This effort aligns with the DOT’s broader strategy of improving the country’s tourism infrastructure and positioning the Philippines as a must-visit destination for both long-term travelers and those simply passing through. The introduction of the Transit Tours is a strategic move that connects the air travel industry with local tourism, offering a convenient way for international travelers to experience the essence of Manila in a short amount of time.

Looking Ahead: A Long-Term Tourism Strategy

With the success of this program, the DOT aims to continue creating opportunities for foreign travelers, even those with limited time. The Transit Tours not only cater to the needs of tourists but also provide economic opportunities for Filipinos involved in the tourism industry. From guides to local businesses, this initiative supports a wide array of individuals and groups connected to the tourism value chain.

By offering tourists a unique glimpse into Manila’s cultural landmarks and entertainment venues, the Transit Tours program serves as a stepping stone for future tourism initiatives. The DOT envisions a future where the Philippines can offer tailored experiences that appeal to a diverse set of travelers, regardless of the duration of their stay.

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