Thanks Fred - very comprehensive - I think i will go for the extension when i am there. i arrive on Dec 15th so the first day to do this is Dec 17th - is this enough time before they close for Xmas if I use the express lane in Intramouros?
My partner's cousin is travel agent and she just did their mother's visa to Australia last week so I will use her for extensions after Christmas - I suspect I will have to go straight to the Immigration Office on dec 17th to get it done in time for Xmas.
Just a few things I need to know that I wasn't sure from your post.
I have done a lot of research but I am not clear on what docs I need when extending a visa - is this the same as when you first apply for a visa?
Since my ticket is Valid Until Jan 2nd the first extension should be fine? What do I need to bring to the Intramouros office to get my initial 38 day visa waiver?
I am presuming every time I extend my visa I must have a valid outbound ticket or is this just when you enter the country as a tourist?
All these questions - feel like such a newbie! lol