Foreign travelers passing through Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) now have a compelling reason to step outside during long waits. The Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL), has officially opened its Transit Tours program to eligible international passengers, offering a safe and structured glimpse of the capital's highlights.
Who Can Join and How to Book
The initiative is designed for convenience and accessibility. Tourists from visa-free countries with a layover of at least eight hours in Manila are eligible to participate. The DOT has built in a practical buffer, requiring that the eight-hour window includes a two-hour allowance before and after the tour for essential airport processes like immigration and security.
Booking is integrated directly into the travel journey. Eligible passengers can secure their spot through Philippine Airlines' official website or by using the government's LovePH mobile application. This seamless digital access aims to convert idle airport time into a mini-cultural adventure.
Tour Details: Destinations, Schedule, and Inclusions
Starting January 30, 2026, the Transit Tours will operate with two distinct itineraries based on the time of day. Morning schedules will whisk guests away to the historic walled city of Intramuros and the esteemed National Museum in Manila. For those on later flights, the afternoon tours will showcase world-class entertainment at Solaire Resort Entertainment City and Okada Manila in Parañaque City.
Each excursion is a tightly managed four-hour experience. This includes approximately two hours for round-trip travel between the airport and the destination, and two hours on-site. The on-site time is split between one hour with a DOT-accredited tour guide and one hour of free exploration for passengers.
Priced at USD50 per person, the tour fee is comprehensive. It covers all entrance fees, insurance for accidental death and medical expenses, bottled water, and even a poncho for unexpected rain. Transportation is provided via a comfortable, air-conditioned 49-seater bus.
Boosting Tourism and Livelihoods
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted the multi-layered benefits of the program, which was first launched in December 2025. She expressed gratitude to private sector partners like PAL for helping maximize the potential of the country's tourist spots.
"Because what our transit tours actually provide are opportunities," Frasco stated. "An opportunity for tourists to explore Manila in between flights, an opportunity for our Filipinos to earn a living, and an opportunity for our industry to enhance visitor experience." The program is a strategic move to improve the country's gateways while generating income across the tourism value chain, from guides and drivers to retail and hospitality services near the featured destinations.
This partnership with Philippine Airlines supports the DOT's broader goal of promoting the Philippines not just as a final destination, but also as an engaging and welcoming stopover for global travelers.
