Make sure to declare any cash and get authorization to avoid airport holdups.
Dubai: Travelers flying to the Philippines are advised to review the amount of cash they are carrying before going to the airport.
The Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) has reiterated its long-standing rules on the import and export of both local and foreign currencies, reminding travelers to declare cash properly to ensure smooth and transparent processing at all ports.
Declaration Rule for Foreign Currency
Passengers traveling to or from the Philippines may carry foreign currency, including cash and other forms of travel funds. However, if the total exceeds $10,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies, such as UAE dirhams), the full amount must be declared to customs authorities upon arrival or departure.
Advance Declaration
Travelers can complete their cash declaration in advance via the government’s e-Travel system or at designated BOC counters in airports and seaports.
Limit on Philippine Currency
Passengers may bring in or take out up to ₱50,000 per person without prior approval. Any amount exceeding this limit requires written authorization from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and must also be declared to the BOC.
Authorization Requirements
Approval must be obtained before departing from the country of origin and is granted only for specific purposes, such as numismatic collections, museum or exhibit displays, or testing and calibration of money counting and sorting machines.
This rule applies to banknotes, coins, cheques, and other peso-denominated instruments. Carrying more than ₱50,000 without proper clearance may result in confiscation.
Protection for Travelers
BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized that these regulations are designed to protect travelers, not to cause them stress.
BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said, “These rules have long been in place to promote transparency and protect both travelers and the integrity of our financial system.”
He added, “Declaring currency is a standard procedure and does not prevent travelers from carrying lawful amounts of cash. Our goal is to make the process clear, consistent, and convenient for everyone.”
The agency also advised passengers to complete customs and currency declarations online before traveling to speed up processing at airports.
