The Department of Tourism (DOT) announced that its Transit Tours program for transiting foreign and Filipino passengers of Philippine Airlines (PAL) is now available.
In a statement Monday, the DOT said foreign tourists with a stopover in Manila via the flag carrier may now avail themselves of the Transit Tours program, which offers a curated, safe, and time-bound bus journey to Metro Manila’s iconic attractions.
The Transit Tours are accessible through PAL’s official website and the LovePH mobile app.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the sightseeing program forms part of the DOT’s efforts to not only improve the country’s gateways but also create livelihoods for local guides, transport providers, and enterprises.
“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,” Frasco said.
“Because what our transit tours actually provide are opportunities — an opportunity for tourists to explore Manila in between flights, an opportunity for our Filipinos to earn a living, and an opportunity for our industry to enhance visitor experience,” she added.
The program, a brainchild of Frasco, aims to turn simple layovers into tourism experiences, allowing travelers to explore Manila’s culture and people instead of waiting at the airport.
Transit Tours are open to travelers from visa-free countries whose layovers last at least eight hours, including a two-hour allowance before and after the tour to accommodate immigration and airport procedures.
Beginning 30 January 2026, the tours will offer trips to four landmarks, including Intramuros and the National Museum in the morning, and entertainment destinations Solaire and Okada in the afternoon.
Each tour runs for four hours: two hours for sightseeing — one hour with a guide and one hour of free time — and two hours for travel to and from the airport, ensuring passengers have sufficient time for their connecting flights.
Each tour costs $50 per person, inclusive of entrance fees, insurance coverage for accidental death and medical expenses, bottled water, and a poncho in case of rain.
Passengers will be transported on a 49-seater, air-conditioned bus with a DOT-accredited tour guide.