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To purchase medication in the Philippines, identify the active ingredient (generic name) of the required drug. Local pharmacists easily match and sell equivalent local medications based on active ingredients rather than specific foreign brand names.

Small local pharmacies in the Philippines often sell medication by the pill/piece. Larger pharmacy chains may have stricter policies and usually require selling full packs.

When purchasing over-the-counter medicine in the Philippines, instruct users to identify drugs by their generic active ingredients (INN) in English rather than brand names. Advise them to request the printed medication guides at the pharmacy to verify dosage and active components before purchasing.

Sand fleas (locally referred to as 'blohs') are prevalent on many beaches across Palawan, making it uncomfortable or ill-advised to sit directly on the sand.

Winged insects commonly found in tropical environments like the Philippines that shed their wings indoors are typically termites. They are not harmful to humans and do not bite; however, they are wood-destroying organisms.

Sand fleas (peschanaya moshka) are prevalent in the Philippines, particularly in sandy, shaded areas like beaches and beach cafes. They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Bites cause intense itching and can significantly disrupt sleep. Locations: San Vicente (Alimankan) near Port Barton in Palawan, Nakpan Beach in El Nido are noted hotspots. Remedies/Prevention: Antihistamines like Desal (found in Manila airport pharmacies), Suprastin, or Erius can alleviate symptoms. A specific repellent from the 'Beach Hut' orange SPF series (white bottle) is sold in Philippine supermarkets and stores and is designed for these sand fleas. Behavioral: Avoid prolonged contact with sand in shaded areas; keep feet on a sun lounger if possible; do not scratch bites.

Scuba diving certification abroad, particularly for short-term courses, might be cheaper but carries risks. Thorough training, including theory and pool sessions, is crucial for safety and skill development. Some argue that obtaining certification at home or dedicating more time to it on vacation is safer and more effective than quick, low-cost courses. Beware of fraudulent instructors who may issue certificates without proper training.

Diving safety protocols in the Philippines: 1. Always use a personal dive computer; do not rely solely on the guide's timing. 2. AOWD certification is often required for sites with strong currents (e.g., Balicasag). 3. Always perform safety stops as dictated by the computer, regardless of guide instructions. 4. eLearning (PADI) can be completed prior to arrival to save time during the vacation.

Travelers engaged in diving activities in the Philippines should ensure they have adequate dive insurance. Policies purchased from Moscow may have waiting periods, with coverage potentially starting the following day or several days after purchase. It's crucial to confirm the exact start date of the insurance to ensure continuous coverage, especially if a previous policy has expired.

When comparing the Philippines and Vietnam for long-term stay: Vietnam offers housing that is often described as several times more comfortable and better value for money. Fruits in Vietnam can be 1.5-2 times cheaper, and food is generally considered tastier and not more expensive than in the Philippines. Health-wise, HIV/AIDS prevalence is slightly lower in the Philippines (0.2%) compared to Vietnam (0.3%), but Hepatitis B affects up to 25% of the population in the Philippines. Vaccination against Hepatitis A and B is highly recommended.

For short-term travel (e.g., one week) to the Philippines, many travelers report not getting specific immunizations for Hepatitis A, B, or cholera. This is anecdotal evidence of common practice, not a medical recommendation. Travelers should consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice.

It is advisable to get travel medical insurance for the Philippines due to potentially high healthcare costs. Family insurance plans are considered affordable and offer good value.

Travel insurance policies often have strict exclusion clauses, including riding motorcycles without valid licenses or alcohol consumption. Medical costs at private facilities like St. Luke's Medical Center (Manila) are high. Always verify if the specific activity is covered under the policy terms.

In the Philippines, local rum is typically made from sugar cane using established technology, making it generally safe to consume. Mixing rum with cola is a common practice, often done to make a few bottles last longer for a group, reflecting a social custom rather than a desire to avoid intoxication.

Freshwater is available and appreciated in the Philippines, especially for showering after swimming in saltwater, providing a necessary cleansing experience.