28 October 2003

Bringing prescription medicines and restricted drugs to the Philippines

The Philippine Bureau of Customs advises foreign tourists who wish to bring medicines, prescription medicines and restricted drugs for personal use during their stay in the Philippines:

Over-the-counter drugs are available in pharmacies or drugstores (chemist shops) in the country. However, if visitors insist on bringing their own prescriptive drugs, they may do so but only in quantities sufficient for the duration of their stay in the country;

Visitors taking prescription drugs (tables and ampoules) should bring a letter from their physician stating the condition for which they are receiving treatment and the dosage. The amount of drugs into the country should also be sufficient for the duration of their visit. For those who are traveling onward to another country, they are advised that a separate quantity of drugs should be sealed and declared again before exiting the country.