Visitors receive a 30-day visa-free entry, extendable locally up to 36 months. Private island rentals in Palawan or Siargao often require a chartered ... Read MoreBangka boat or seaplane. A 12% VAT is standard. Travelers should verify if the island has a "Department of Tourism (DOT) Accreditation," which is mandatory for legal short-term rentals. Be aware of the "Environmental Fee" at major ports. Many remote islands are seasonal; during typhoon season (June–October), boat transfers can be cancelled with little notice. Read Less