Immigration/Customs in Manila

[paul67]

I'm going to Manila in a couple of weeks and I've heard that some money handed over with the passport helps make clearing immigration/customs much easier. Has anyone had this type of experience and if so, how much $$ is appropriate?

This is a business trip, and I'm traveling on a US passport.

Thanks,
Paul

 

[Alanslegal]

I have never heard such a thing.

I also have been through MNL C&I twice in the last couple of years and have never given any $$$ and have had absoultely no issues at all going through C&I.

I would only guess that those who give $$$ are people who are locally-born but living abroad.

 

[Fantic125]

The only time I've experienced this type of thing in Manila was in the queue waiting to go through the security scanners at the entrance to the airport.
Some of the baggage handlers there will take you to an express lane or to the front of the queue for a tip.
From what I recall the going rate was 100 pesos (around $2 AUD).

You need to pay a 750 pesos departure fee in cash before going through C&I on the way out, but I wouldn't be trying to hand over any additional cash to clear C&I on the way in.

 

[whughes3]

Clearing formalities at MNL is, surprisingly, usually pretty quick; I seriously doubt that what is being suggested here would ever make much difference. Indeed, it might conceivably land you in strife if you do it with the wrong person.

 

[NM]

Offering a bribe to any country's Immigration or Customs officers would be a very dangerous practice. Its likely to suggest you have something to hide.

 

[Sprucegoose]

I'm going to Manila in a couple of weeks and I've heard that some money handed over with the passport helps make clearing immigration/customs much easier. Has anyone had this type of experience and if so, how much $$ is appropriate?

This is a business trip, and I'm traveling on a US passport.

Thanks,
Paul

Rubbish. Why would you part with cash - what have you done wrong!!!
.