Health in Philippines: what actually matters to know

From real experience

• When comparing the Philippines and Vietnam for long-term stay: Vietnam offers housing that is often described as several times more comfortable and better value for money. Fruits in Vietnam can be 1.5-2 times cheaper, and food is generally considered tastier and not more expensive than in the Philippines. Health-wise, HIV/AIDS prevalence is slightly lower in the Philippines (0.2%) compared to Vietnam (0.3%), but Hepatitis B affects up to 25% of the population in the Philippines. Vaccination against Hepatitis A and B is highly recommended.
• It is advisable to get travel medical insurance for the Philippines due to potentially high healthcare costs. Family insurance plans are considered affordable and offer good value.
• To purchase medication in the Philippines, identify the active ingredient (generic name) of the required drug. Local pharmacists easily match and sell equivalent local medications based on active ingredients rather than specific foreign brand names.
• The cost for a temporary dental crown or filling in a clinic in the Philippines is approximately 4000 Russian Rubles. (This translates to about ₱2,500-₱3,000 PHP depending on current exchange rates, assuming the user meant 'upper temporary crown' or 'временные коронки/пломбы').
• The perception of healthcare quality and cost in the Philippines is mixed. Objectively, the Philippines' healthcare system index is higher than most former USSR countries (excluding Lithuania and Estonia). It attracts medical tourists from the USA and Europe due to perceived quality and affordability. However, accessibility and quality may vary significantly in rural areas, and serious medical issues for foreigners can still be expensive.
• Shower facilities for rinsing off saltwater are not consistently available at surf schools or on beaches in the Philippines. In some locations, showers are provided for a fee of approximately 20 pesos.
• For information on importing pets into the Philippines, consult the specific airline's pet travel regulations or contact the airline directly. Official sources like 'TravelAsk' on Telegram are also recommended for expert advice on relocation, import permits, vaccination recommendations, and flight bookings for pets.
• Freshwater is available and appreciated in the Philippines, especially for showering after swimming in saltwater, providing a necessary cleansing experience.
• Winged insects commonly found in tropical environments like the Philippines that shed their wings indoors are typically termites. They are not harmful to humans and do not bite; however, they are wood-destroying organisms.
• When purchasing over-the-counter medicine in the Philippines, instruct users to identify drugs by their generic active ingredients (INN) in English rather than brand names. Advise them to request the printed medication guides at the pharmacy to verify dosage and active components before purchasing.
• On Boracay, algae have been observed in February. In November, visitors reported clear waters and good weather, though conditions can vary year by year. It is generally assumed that October also has no algae, but the weather is unpredictable. January conditions regarding algae are not definitively stated, but there's an open question about their potential presence.
• Dengue fever is present in the Philippines and affects both locals and foreigners. If a high fever persists for more than three days, it is advisable to get a blood test to differentiate between dengue fever and other illnesses like ORVI. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing the condition.
• A specific, highly recommended location for braiding services (braids) is available in El Nido, known for effectively managing hair tangles after swimming in the sea. Details can be provided upon request.
• For pet relocation to the Philippines, expert assistance is available covering: obtaining an Import Permit, vaccination recommendations, flight selection and booking, and online support until arrival. This service is designed to streamline the process of moving pets internationally.
• Travelers engaged in diving activities in the Philippines should ensure they have adequate dive insurance. Policies purchased from Moscow may have waiting periods, with coverage potentially starting the following day or several days after purchase. It's crucial to confirm the exact start date of the insurance to ensure continuous coverage, especially if a previous policy has expired.
• Sand fleas (peschanaya moshka) are prevalent in the Philippines, particularly in sandy, shaded areas like beaches and beach cafes. They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Bites cause intense itching and can significantly disrupt sleep. Locations: San Vicente (Alimankan) near Port Barton in Palawan, Nakpan Beach in El Nido are noted hotspots. Remedies/Prevention: Antihistamines like Desal (found in Manila airport pharmacies), Suprastin, or Erius can alleviate symptoms. A specific repellent from the 'Beach Hut' orange SPF series (white bottle) is sold in Philippine supermarkets and stores and is designed for these sand fleas. Behavioral: Avoid prolonged contact with sand in shaded areas; keep feet on a sun lounger if possible; do not scratch bites.
• Canyoneering in the Philippines is generally accessible for children aged 6 and up, provided they are physically active. To mitigate fatigue during the start of the trek, use the zip-line option to reach the jumping points. Distributing activities like canyoneering, whale shark watching, and snorkeling over several days is highly recommended to prevent physical exhaustion.

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