Pre-Travel Client Responsibilities (Required for All Tours, Transfers, Rentals, and Travel Services)

D’Palawan Travel and Tours (“Agency,” “we,” “us,” “our”) created this Pre-Travel Client Responsibilities page to help travelers prepare properly and reduce preventable issues, delays, disputes, and safety risks—especially in island and remote-area travel conditions where weather, sea state, road access, enforcement rules, and provider availability can change quickly.

This page is intentionally written in a long-form and traveler-friendly manner to clearly set expectations before your trip. It applies broadly to travel activities and services coordinated, arranged, introduced, booked, scheduled, or otherwise assisted by the Agency, including (without limitation): island hopping, land tours, river and boat tours, cave tours, snorkeling, diving, firefly watching, swimming, hiking/trekking, boarding/disembarking outrigger boats (bangka), hotel/lodging stays, trying meals and delicacies, airport transfers, land transfers, boat transfers, car/van rentals with driver, self-drive car rentals, self-drive motorbike rentals, and motorbike/car services with driver.

IMPORTANT: This page does not replace service-specific waivers. Instead, it is a practical and legally protective checklist of responsibilities you must observe before you start any tour, transfer, rental, or travel service arranged through the Agency. If you do not agree, do not proceed with booking, payment, or participation.

1) Required Acceptance: This Page Forms Part of the Terms of Service

Mandatory pre-travel requirement: By making a reservation, submitting payment, paying any deposit, replying “Confirmed/Agree/Yes,” signing any waiver, accepting pickup, arriving at a meeting point, boarding a vehicle/vessel, checking into accommodations, accepting a rental unit/vehicle, or participating in any activity arranged through D’Palawan Travel and Tours, you confirm that:

you have read and understood this Pre-Travel Client Responsibilities page;
you agree to observe these responsibilities prior to the start of your service; and
you acknowledge this page is incorporated into and forms part of the Agency’s Terms of Service (together with all Site Policies and applicable service-specific waivers).

Incorporation by reference: This page must be read in harmony with the Agency’s legal pages, including:

Service-specific waivers also apply depending on your booking, including (as applicable):

Clarification duty: If anything appears unclear, conflicting, or incomplete across any policy, you agree to request clarification before you proceed via Contact Us. Do not rely on assumptions or “standard rules,” especially in island travel where provider and authority rules may vary.

Non-waivable rights: Nothing in this page is intended to unlawfully waive rights that cannot be waived under applicable Philippine law (including mandatory consumer protection standards). This page is meant to set expectations, allocate responsibilities fairly, and reduce preventable risks.

2) Your Core Responsibility: You Are Responsible for Fitness, Readiness, and Legal Compliance

Travel activities—especially those involving sea conditions, road travel, outdoor terrain, water exposure, and remote locations—may not be suitable for everyone. You are responsible for determining whether you (and your group members) are physically and medically fit for your planned activities.

Medical readiness: If you have any health condition (e.g., asthma, heart conditions, high blood pressure, severe motion sickness, pregnancy, recent surgery, mobility limitations, seizure risk, anxiety/panic risk in open water, or any condition affected by heat, exertion, or boat movement), consult a qualified medical professional before participating.
Medication and supplies: Bring your essential medications, first-aid basics you personally require, and any personal medical devices (inhaler, EpiPen, glucose kit, etc.). In remote locations, access to pharmacies and clinics may be limited.
Minors and dependents: Guardians must supervise minors and ensure their compliance with safety rules. You are responsible for any dependent’s readiness and conduct.
Legal compliance: You must comply with local laws, port/Coast Guard rules, LGU ordinances, protected-area regulations, and provider rules. Failure to comply may result in denial of boarding or service without creating liability for the Agency.

3) Time-Sensitive Travel: Plan Buffer Time and Avoid Risky Scheduling

Many disruptions happen because travelers schedule activities too tightly—especially around flights, ferry connections, check-in deadlines, and fixed cut-off times.

Flights and strict deadlines: For airport transfers and any activity near a flight schedule, build in generous buffer time for traffic, checkpoints, weather, terminal restrictions, and changing airport rules. Missed flights can happen even with reasonable planning due to factors outside anyone’s control.
Sea travel and weather holds: Boat activities and transfers can be delayed or canceled due to sea state, wind, tides, port authority directives, or safety decisions. A “sunny forecast” does not guarantee safe sea travel.
Meeting points and cutoffs: Providers and authorities may enforce strict cut-off times. Late arrival can result in forfeited slots or no-show classification under the Refund Policy and provider rules.
Connectivity reality: Mobile signal may be weak in some areas. Plan for limited data coverage and bring offline copies of confirmations and IDs where appropriate.

4) Accurate Information Is Your Responsibility (Names, Headcount, IDs, and Manifests)

Many activities and transfers require accurate passenger details. Inaccurate, incomplete, late, or inconsistent information can lead to denial of boarding, delays, penalties, or cancellation.

Provide correct traveler details: Complete names, correct headcount, ages (if required), and any information required for manifests or permits must be accurate.
Bring valid ID: When an activity requires ID verification (ports, protected areas, accommodations), you must present valid identification as required by the provider/authority.
Special needs disclosure: Tell us in advance if anyone has mobility limitations, severe allergies, serious motion sickness, pregnancy, or conditions that can affect safety. Providers may restrict participation for safety.
Group responsibility: If you booked for others, you represent you have authority to do so and you accept responsibility for ensuring all participants understand and follow the Site Policies and provider rules.

5) Payment, Proof of Payment, and Booking Confirmation Responsibilities

To avoid misunderstandings, always follow the payment procedures stated in your booking instructions and Site Policies.

Confirm payment through official channels: Provide proof of payment through official communication channels and keep your receipt/reference number.
“Inquiry” is not “confirmed”: A booking is confirmed only when acknowledged/verified per the Terms of Service.
Chargebacks and disputes: Payment disputes should follow the process in the Terms of Service. Improper chargebacks can create delays, disputes, and documentation escalation.
Refund expectations: Cancellations and refunds are governed by the Refund Policy and any stricter provider rules. Read these before committing.

6) Water Activities: Swimming, Snorkeling, Diving, and Open-Water Exposure

Water activities involve real risks even for confident swimmers. Conditions can change quickly due to currents, waves, wind, visibility, and boat traffic.

Know your limits: If you are not a confident swimmer, disclose this early. Use flotation devices when required or recommended. Do not overestimate your ability.
Safety briefings are mandatory: Listen to safety instructions. If you do not understand, ask before entering the water.
No risky behavior: Do not dive headfirst into unknown areas, do not touch corals or marine life, and do not swim beyond designated safe zones.
Supervise children closely: Guardians must maintain direct supervision. Providers may require life vests for minors.
Personal equipment: If you need prescription masks, special fins, reef-safe sunscreen, or motion-sickness prevention, bring them.
Health conditions: Asthma, heart conditions, panic risk, and severe motion sickness can be dangerous in open water. Seek medical advice first.

Note: Specific sea and vessel-related responsibilities are further detailed in the applicable waivers, including Boat Rental (By Sea) Waiver and Liability Disclaimer and Boat Transfer (By Sea) Waiver and Liability Disclaimer.

7) Boarding and Disembarking Outrigger Boats (Bangka): High Attention Required

Boarding/disembarking is one of the most common moments for slips, falls, and injuries. Water, moving boats, uneven shorelines, and wet steps create hazards.

Wear appropriate footwear: Use footwear suitable for wet surfaces when possible, but follow local practice and crew instructions.
Use hand support: Hold rails/handles and accept crew assistance when offered.
One step at a time: Avoid rushing. Wait for instruction. Keep your hands free by passing bags first if needed.
Protect devices: Secure phones, cameras, and valuables in dry bags. Water damage is common and is generally the traveler’s responsibility.
Mobility issues: Disclose limitations early. Additional assistance may be necessary and may affect feasibility of certain boat landings.

8) Land Tours, City Tours, Hiking, Caves, and Uneven Terrain

Land-based activities can still be physically demanding and include uneven terrain, steep steps, narrow trails, slippery surfaces, heat exposure, and unpredictable weather.

Footwear and hydration: Use appropriate shoes and carry adequate water, especially for hiking and cave-related activities.
Heat and sun management: Bring sun protection. Heat exhaustion can occur quickly.
Follow route rules: Stay with your group where required. Do not enter restricted areas. Follow guide instructions.
Cave safety: Caves can be slippery, dark, humid, and uneven. Bring appropriate gear where recommended and do not touch rock formations or protected features.

9) Firefly Watching and Wildlife/Nature Activities: Conduct and Conservation

Nature-based experiences can be fragile and are often governed by local rules to protect ecosystems.

Quiet behavior: Keep noise low, follow lighting restrictions, and comply with local conservation rules.
No harassment of wildlife: Do not attempt to touch, capture, or disturb animals.
Follow boat/river safety rules: Wear life vests if required. Maintain safe movement on small boats.

10) Hotels, Lodging Houses, and Accommodation Stays

Accommodation quality, policies, and rules are controlled by the accommodation provider.

Read and follow house rules: Check-in/out times, ID policies, security deposits, and damage rules vary.
Inspect on arrival: If there are issues (cleanliness, broken fixtures), document promptly and notify the accommodation directly.
Valuables: Secure valuables. Use safes where provided. Do not leave important items unattended.
Respect local policies: Noise rules, visitor policies, and smoking rules may be strictly enforced.

Reminder: The Agency’s role is primarily coordination/facilitation; accommodations are typically operated by independent providers. For general role limits, review the site Disclaimer and Terms of Service.

11) Food, Meals, Delicacies, and Allergies

Trying local food is part of the travel experience, but dietary needs and allergies require proactive attention.

Disclose serious allergies: If you have severe allergies (seafood, nuts, shellfish, etc.), inform us and your provider in advance. Always verify ingredients directly with the food provider when possible.
Dietary restrictions: Vegetarian, halal, religious restrictions, and medical diets should be disclosed early. Availability in remote areas may be limited.
Food safety: Use reasonable caution. If you have a sensitive stomach, bring personal medication and avoid risky food choices.
Personal responsibility: You remain responsible for what you choose to consume, especially when eating outside the confirmed inclusions or from third-party vendors.

12) Driving and Rentals: Self-Drive Car and Self-Drive Motorbike Responsibilities

Self-drive rentals are high-responsibility arrangements. You are responsible for compliance, lawful driving, and safe operation.

Valid license and competence: Do not drive if you do not have the proper license or real driving competence. If you are unfamiliar with local road conditions, reconsider self-drive.
No intoxication: Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or impairing medication.
Inspect before acceptance: Conduct a basic inspection (tires, brakes, lights, wipers, horn, mirrors) and document condition with photos/videos.
Follow capacity rules: Do not overload vehicles or carry passengers beyond legal capacity.
Route realism: Some roads may be rough, narrow, flood-prone, or remote with limited towing support. Plan carefully and avoid high-risk routes if unsure.
Security and keys: Keep keys secure. Loss may result in fees or liability under supplier rules.

For full allocation of responsibility and the Agency’s facilitator-only role, review the applicable waivers:

13) Vehicle-with-Driver Services, Land Transfers, and Airport Transfers

If your booking includes car/van with driver, land transfers, or airport transfers, your responsibility as a passenger includes punctuality, communication, and compliance with safety rules.

Be reachable: Keep your phone on and monitor messages, especially near pickup times.
Be punctual: Waiting time rules and cutoffs may apply. Late pickup can affect subsequent schedules.
Luggage honesty: Declare luggage volume and special items (surfboards, large boxes, etc.). Overloaded vehicles may be unsafe or non-compliant.
Seatbelts and child safety: Use seatbelts when available. Parents/guardians are responsible for child safety needs.
No prohibited items: Do not bring illegal items or items prohibited by providers, terminals, or authorities.
Flight buffer time: For departures, plan for traffic, checkpoints, and airport restrictions. Missed flights due to late departure or insufficient buffer time are generally the traveler’s responsibility.

Read the relevant waivers for deeper detail:

14) Sea Transfers and Boat Operations: Compliance with Port and Safety Rules

Sea-based travel is highly dependent on safety decisions and official directives (including port authority and Coast Guard requirements where applicable). You must comply with all boarding and manifest rules.

Bring required details: If a manifest is required, provide details early and accurately.
Follow boarding instructions: Crew instructions are mandatory for safety.
Wear safety gear: Use life vests and safety equipment when required.
Respect sea holds: Delays/cancellations for safety or directives are normal in island travel. Build flexibility into your itinerary.

Read the applicable sea-related waivers:

15) Safety, Conduct, and Cooperation Are Non-Negotiable

Travel services often involve multiple parties and real-time operational decisions. Cooperation reduces risk and prevents disputes.

Follow instructions: Provider and crew instructions exist for safety and compliance. Refusal may result in denied participation without liability for the Agency.
Respect others: Avoid aggressive, abusive, or unsafe behavior. Providers may refuse service for safety and conduct reasons.
Risky behavior is your choice: If you choose to ignore rules, swim outside safe zones, remove safety gear, or take reckless actions, you assume the consequences to the fullest extent permitted by law.

16) Emergencies: This Site and Our Channels Are Not Emergency Services

If you have a medical emergency or immediate safety concern, contact local authorities or emergency responders directly. Our messaging channels and forms are not designed for emergency response.

For general guidance and reminders, visit our emergency information page here: Emergency.

17) Final Reminder: Ask Questions Before You Proceed

Island travel is dynamic. If anything matters to you—timing, safety concerns, mobility access, medical conditions, weather sensitivity, child suitability, luggage constraints, or a specific expectation—request confirmation in writing before booking and before the travel date.

Contact us for clarifications:Contact Us

Pre-Travel Acknowledgment Statement

Client Acknowledgment (Pre-Travel Responsibilities): By proceeding with a booking, submitting payment or deposit, replying “Confirmed/Agree/Yes,” signing any waiver, appearing at a meeting point, accepting pickup, boarding any vehicle/vessel, checking into accommodations, receiving any rental unit/vehicle, or participating in any tour, transfer, rental, or travel service coordinated by D’Palawan Travel and Tours, the Client confirms that they have read and agree to comply with this Pre-Travel Client Responsibilities page prior to the start of the service. The Client acknowledges that this page forms part of, and is incorporated into, the Agency’s Terms of Service, together with the Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, Disclaimer, Disclosure, Refund Policy, and all applicable service-specific waivers (including, as applicable, the Tours and Travel Packages Waiver and Liability Disclaimer and transportation/rental waivers). If any provision is unclear, the Client agrees to request clarification via Contact Us before proceeding. Nothing herein is intended to unlawfully waive rights that cannot be waived under applicable Philippine law.

UPDATED: January 3, 2026 (Philippines)