The Department of Tourism (DOT) and Philippine Airlines (PAL) have launched a transit tour program for foreign travelers passing through Manila, offering curated bus trips to the capital city’s historical and entertainment landmarks during layovers.
Launched in December 2025, the tours are available for booking through the Philippine Airlines official website and the LovePH mobile app. The program aims to transform long wait times into cultural experiences while generating revenue for local guides and transport providers.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the initiative is part of a broader push to improve the country’s gateways and maximize the potential of local tourist spots.
She said the program provides an invitation to foreign travelers passing through to explore Manila’s heritage and allows Filipinos to earn through the tourism industry.
The service is available to travelers from visa-free countries with layovers of at least eight hours. The timeframe includes a two-hour buffer before and after the tour to accommodate immigration and airport security procedures.
Starting Jan. 30, 2026, the program will feature four destinations. Morning tours will visit Intramuros and the National Museum, while afternoon schedules focus on entertainment hubs Solaire and Okada.
Each tour lasts four hours, consisting of two hours of sightseeing, an hour with a guide and an hour of free time. An additional two hours is allocated for travel to and from the airport to ensure passengers meet their connecting flights.
The tour is priced at $50 per person. The package includes entrance fees, bottled water, a rain poncho and insurance coverage for medical expenses and accidental death.
Participants will travel on 49-seat air-conditioned buses accompanied by a Department of Tourism-accredited guide.
