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Q83: I was wondering if there was a way to visit the Philippines to see war memorials without having to go through the expense and time it takes to get a passport? I am a veteran and US citizen with no criminal record.
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A1: You need a passport, it can be done easily and cheaply at your local post office. (TS) 7/17/18
A2: Since the bases closed in the Philippines, there is no longer an Armed Forces agreement with the Philippine government. Obtaining a passport really is not a "hastle." You can go to a Passport Office near your home and give them required documents, such as birth certificate, driver's license and whatever else they require, and they will help you fill out the application form and mail it in and will call you when the passport arrives in their office or you can ask to have the passport be mailed to your home. So the bottom line is you will need a passport. You will not need a visa if your stay in the Philippines is 30 days or less. I lived in the Philippines after I retired from the Navy for 20 years. Remember that Americans are "targets" there, so keep a close eye on your money and other valuables. Try to stay in a nice hotel...compared to the states, prices are pretty cheap. I hope I have assisted in answering your question. (RC) 7/17/18
A3: No. Any International travel requires a US Passport. That's an International Law. The only exception is Military Duty. (GB) 11/11/18
A4: You can stow away on a container ship. However, once you arrive in the Philippines, they will arrest you. Take it from me, their jails are not up to American standards. (RJ) 6/30/20
A5: No! You must have passport and Covid Test withing 48 hrs. (MC) 4/13/22