Practical Information



Table of Contents


Accommodations

     Summit participants can choose either of the two hotels listed for their accommodations. The summit steering committee was able to get special rates for the participants. You can book for your hotel stay anytime at your convenience.


Traders Hotel





     The Traders Hotel, Manila is conveniently located along Roxas Boulevard overlooking the picturesque Manila Bay. The hotel offers 312 fully renovated guestrooms and suites that provide a full range of amenities, and complimentary Wi-Fi and broadband internet access. Adjacent to the capital's premier conference and exhibition centers, a 5-minute walk to the Central Bank of the Philippines, several embassies, and the Mall of Asia. Metro Manila's business district - Makati - and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) is a 20-minute drive from the hotel. 

    Additional information can be found in the hotel's website.

     For booking and reservations exclusive to APMF summit participants, please click the following link: http://goo.gl/n60ehF

     Alternatively, guests can make their booking directly on the hotel website using the Group Code (DLS081213). To book, please follow the steps below:
  1. Go to the Shangri-La Website.
  2. Select the  appropriate hotel & enter ll the necessary stay requirements (i.e. check-in date, check-out date, number of rooms, adults & children).
  3. Under the Special Rate area, select Group Code and enter the group code.
  4. Click the Check Availability button to continue.
  5. If all of the search criteria are correct and rooms are still available for the group, the rate will be displayed in the availability search results. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to complete the online booking.      
     If you wish to get in touch with any personnel of Trader's Hotel, feel free to e-mail or call the hotel sales manager using the contact information below.

               Ms. Michele Castro
               Sales Manager
               (632) 708-4888  / (632) 528-2688
               E-mail: michele.castro@tradershotel.com  
               Traders Hotel, Manila, 3001 Roxas Boulevard
               Pasay City, 1305, Philippines



Manila Hotel




     Since its inception in 1912, the Manila Hotel has always been the Philippines' leading five-star hotel. At that time, and until now, it has taken its place among the finest in the world - meeting the most demanding needs of its distinguished guests from business to industry personalities to royalty and heads of state. While maintaining the elegance of the past, it persists to evolve and strives to outdo what it has already accomplished. 

     Additional information about the hotel can be found by going through the Manila Hotel's brochure ( which can be downloaded here ) or by visiting the hotel's website .

        For bookings and reservations exclusive to APMF summit participants,  kindly click the following link: http://goo.gl/7ngysa

     If you wish to get in touch with any of Manila Hotel's personnel, feel free to e-mail or call the hotel's sales manager using the contact details below. 

               Ms. Jenny Garcia
               Sales Manager
               Room Sales Department
               Telephone: (632) 527-0011 local 1114
               Fax: (632) 527 9467
               E-mail: j.garcia@manila-hotel.com.ph  
               Twitter: @manilahotel
               Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheManilaHotel



Orchid Garden Suites Manila





     Orchid Garden Suites Manila is a boutique hotel set upon on one of Manila's magnificent pre-war mansions. Located in the heart of Manila's tourist and entertainment district, the 14-storey building is a few minutes away from the International & Domestic Airports. Our hotel is fronting Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and Harrison Shopping Center. We are a few minutes from the Cultural Center of the Philippines and other convention centers, Central Bank, Mall of Asia, and a few steps from De La Salle University - Manila. 

     Discover the old world charm of Manila and experience a classic tradition of service in a modern urban escape. 

     Additional information about the hotel can be found in the hotel's website.


Discounted Corporate Rate: Asia Pacific Mediation Forum Summit 2013

Room
Standard Room
(one big bed or two separate single bed)
Php 2,500.00 nett
Superior Room
(one big bed and one single bed)
Php 2,800.00 nett
Family Room
(one big bed and two single bed)
Php 3,300.00 (2 b’fast)
Php 3,800.00 (4 b’fast)
Executive Suite
(one separate bedroom with kitchen and receiving area)
Php 3,000.00 nett
Grand Suite (64 sq m)
(two separate single bed with kitchen and receiving area)


Php 5,000.00 nett


*All rooms includes buffet breakfast for 2 person*


For reservations kindly contact:

               Ms. Angela Marie Gutierrez
               Sales & Marketing Department
               +63-915-794-5586
               Reservation E-mail Address: orchidsales@pldtdsl.net / orchidgardensuites08@yahoo.com
               Hotel Trunk Line: (632) 516-0888
               Fax: (632)708-9417



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The Philippines

     The Philippines is the third largest English speaking country in the world. It has a rich history combining Asian, European, and American influences. The country is marked by a true blend of cultures. Truly in the Philippines, east meets west. The background of the people is Indonesian and Malay. There are Chinese and Spanish elements as well. The history of American rule and contact with merchants and traders culminated in a unique blend of East and West, both in the appearance and culture of the Filipinos, or people of the Philippines.

     Filipinos are a freedom-loving people, having waged two peaceful, bloodless revolutions against what were perceived as corrupt regimes. The Philippines is a vibrant democracy, as evidenced by 12 English national newspapers, 7 national television stations, hundreds of cable TV stations, and 2,000 radio stations. Throughout the islands, there are fiestas celebrated everyday and foreign guests are always welcome to their homes.

     Hospitality, a trait displayed by every Filipino, makes these people legendary in Southeast Asia. Seldom can you find such hospitable people who enjoy the company of their Western visitors. Perhaps due to their long association with Spain, Filipinos are emotional and passionate about life in a way that seems more Latin than Asian.




     The Filipino character is actually a little bit of all the cultures put together. The “bayanihan” or spirit of kinship and camaraderie that Filipinos are famous for are said to be taken from Malay forefathers. The close family relations are said to have been inherited from the Chinese. The piousness comes from the Spaniards who introduced Christianity in the 16th century. Hospitality is a common denominator in the Filipino character and this is what distinguishes the Filipino. Filipinos are probably one of the few, if not the only, English-proficient Oriental people today. Pilipino is the official national language, with English considered as the country's unofficial one.

     The Filipinos are divided geographically and culturally into regions, and each regional group is recognizable by distinct traits and dialects - the sturdy and frugal llocanos of the north, the industrious Tagalogs of the central plains, the carefree Visayans from the central islands, and the colorful tribesmen and religious Moslems of Mindanao. Tribal communities can be found scattered across the archipelago. The Philippines has more than 111 dialects spoken, owing to the subdivisions of these basic regional and cultural groups.

     The Spaniards introduced Christianity (the Roman Catholic faith) and succeeded in converting the overwhelming majority of Filipinos. At least 83% of the total population belongs to the Roman Catholic faith. The American occupation was responsible for teaching the Filipino people the English language. The Philippines is currently the third-largest English speaking country in the world.


Culture & the Arts


     The major cultural agencies of government are the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the National Historical Institute (NHI) , the National Museum, The National Library, the Records Management and Archives Office, and the Commission on the Filipino Language. The Heads of these cultural agencies are all ex-officio members of the NCCA Board and all except the Commission on the Filipino Language are together under the National Commission on Culture and Arts (http://www.ncca.gov.ph/main.php).


Climate


     The first half of the year, from January to May, is the best time to visit the country. November to February is cool, while March to May is hot and dry. June to October is rainy, with the months between July and September characterized by typhoons. Average temperature is 78 degrees F/25 degrees C; average humidity is 77%. Some parts of the country such as Cebu, are warm and comfortable in all seasons and can be visited throughout the year.

     For up-to-date weather information, visit the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration's (PAGASA) website: www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph or call the agency's 24-hour hotline:  (632) 4338526.


Languages


     Two official languages, - Filipino and English, Filipino, which is based on Tagalog, is the national language. English is also widely used and is the medium of instruction in higher education. Eight (8) major dialects spoken by majority of the Filipinos: Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Hiligaynon or Ilonggo, Bicol, Waray, Pampango, and Pangasinense. Filipino is the native language which is used nationally as the language of communication among ethnic groups. Like any living language, Filipino is in a process of development through loans from Philippine languages and non-native languages for various situations, among speakers of different social backgrounds, and for topics for conversation and scholarly discourse. There are about 76 to 78 major language groups, with more than 500 dialects.


Water


     The water supply in Manila and other major cities is considered potable. Bottled purified water, spring or mineral water is often supplied by hotels and resorts, and sold in all grocery stores. 


Business Hours


     Most businesses are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays and 8:00 AM till noon Saturdays. Banks are open from 9:00 AM till 3:00 PM Mondays through Fridays. When banking in the Philippines, it is advisable to have your passport with you for identification.

     The post offices are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays only. Stamps for postcards are frequently available from the Concierge Desk at most major hotels. The Philippines uses ZIP codes, please include them in addressing local mail.
NOTE: The Standard lunch hour is noon to 1:00 PM. Most businesses and government offices are closed.


Time Difference


     Local time is GMT +8:00. Business English is the language used. Gender equality is more widespread in the Philippines than in other Asian countries. Make sure that you have your business cards.


Airport Tax


Passenger Terminal Fee is levied on all passengers embarking for:

  1. International travel: PHP 750
2
  2. Domestic travel: PHP 200
Place of payment
  3. Airport of departure. Exempt: Children under 2 years of age. 

  4. Transit passengers remaining in the transit area and not leaving the airport
  5. Crew members


Anti-Smoking Law in Enclosed Spaces


MANILA, Philippines -- Section five of the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 (Republic Act 9211) prohibits the carrying of any lighted tobacco product in public vehicles, schools, health centers, elevators, cinemas, malls and in places where fire hazards are present. Smoking is also banned in recreational facilities for minors. Fines imposed on violators of this section range from P 500 to P10 000.



Manila City


     Fascination is an understatement of the feeling that one gets by visiting Manila - a lively metropolis commanding a magnificent view of the world-famous Manila Bay and its golden sunset. Historic, bustling, awe-inspiring, the “Philippine Cosmopolitan Capital” is a blend of cultures and flavors that offers an endless serving of places to see, sights to behold, and experiences to never forget.

     Right in the heart of Manila is found the “Walled City” – Intramuros. Constructed in 1571, during the period of Spain’s colonization of the Philippines, it comprised of European buildings and churches that have been replicated in different parts of the archipelago. It had been one of the world’s best-preserved medieval cities. Here, dungeons and old churches share space with art galleries, theaters, and a nature park.

     At the center of Intramuros is the grand Manila Cathedral, the seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Manila. Then there is San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in Metro Manila and one of the four Philippine Baroque Churches inscribed in UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Marking its entrance at the northwestern tip is Fort Santiago, one of the oldest fortifications of Intramuros. Built in nearly 150 years through Filipino forced labor, it now houses a lush park with flowering trees, homing pigeons, and rides aboard horse-drawn carriages.

     Manila is home to Malacañang Palace, the official residence of the highest chief executive of the country and one of the most historic structures in the Philippines, and the National Museum of the Philippines, the official repository and guardian of the Philippine cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Along the northern bank of the historic Pasig river is Chinatown, a symbol of the long history of Chinese presence in the Philippines long antedating the arrival of the Spaniards. Today it is an important trade and business center, and a primary bargain-shopping destination.

     Five-star hotels and restaurants, some of them housed in historic buildings, make the perfect party place in the city. The nightlife offers everything from dazzling cultural shows to futuristic discotheques, lively casinos, sensational entertainment lounges, and fashionable cafes. The popular districts of Malate and Ermita showcase a wild variety of restaurants, clubs, bars, cafes, art and antique shops – truly, the ultimate cosmopolitan paradise.

     Manila is geographically advantaged. It is an hour or two away from full-day excursions to Cavite and Corregidor Island, Batangas, and Laguna, replete with exceptionally beautiful beaches, stunning views, and local color. The city is over 17 hours away by air from Los Angeles, less than five hours from Tokyo, and seven and a half hours from Sydney. Wherever you are, you are less than a day away from one of Asia’s greatest cities – Manila. 


Summit Location



Other Relevant Information


Visa


     The new visa policy of the Philippines now includes the increase in the visa-free privilege for 166 countries/territories for 30 days, and a 14 -day visa- free stay for Indian nationals who have a valid American, Japan, Australian, Canadian, Shengen, Singapore, or United   Kingdom visa. Nationals from these countries who are traveling to the Philippines for business and tourism purposes are allowed to enter the country without visas for a stay provided they hold valid tickets for their return journey to port of origin or next port of destination and their passports are valid for a period of at least six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay. The rest has to apply visa in their countries. For details, please visit official government website at www.gov.ph/faqs/visa; http://www.immigration.gov.ph or related websites like http://philippines.visahq.com, or http://worldtravelguide.net/philippines/passport-visa

Currency


     The currency in the Philippines is the Peso (PhP) and the Centavo. 100 centavos = P1. Coin denominations are: 1, 5, 10, and 25 centavos, P1, and P5. Bill denominations are: 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1, 000 pesos.

     Foreign currency may be exchanged at your hotel, and in most of the large department stores, banks and authorized money changing shops. Exchanging money anywhere else is illegal and the laws are strictly enforced.

     Most large stores, restaurants, hotels and resorts accept major credit cards including American Express , Visas and MasterCard. Traveler's checks  - preferably American Express -  is accepted at hotels and large department stores. Personal checks drawn on foreign banks are generally not accepted.


Clothing


     People in the Philippines dress for the weather. Casual attire during the day for women is light blouses and shorts. For men collared T- shirts worn over slacks. In the evening skirts are substituted for shorts and the T-shirts are tucked in.

     For Men Only: If you are expected to attend any occasion, usually requires men are wear jacket and a tie. But there is a wonderful substitute. You may go to a department store and buy a barong tagalog. It is an embroidered shirt that is considered a formal dress. It will cost more or less PhP1 000.00, but it is worth every centavo.


Telephones & Mobile Phones


     Telephone service is modern and you can direct dial anywhere in the world. Public phones are plentiful. Public phones require a minimum of two one-peso coins for a local call.

     Bayantel - Bayan Telecommunications, Philippines, 
Globe Telecom – is one of the leading mobile phone companies in the Philippines. 


     PLDT - Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company. 
Smart – is one of the leading mobile phone companies in the Philippines and also offers mobile banking.

Some Important Telephone Numbers:
(24-Hour Hotline)
Police & Fire: 757 or 116 

Emergency No.: 501- 650 or 501- 728
Directory Assistance:

NOTE: It is advisable to always have the telephone number and the address of your embassy or consulate with you.