We do not recommend sending packages to the Philippines during your stay. While it is technically possible to receive and send mail or packages while studying at 3D ACADEMY, the reality is that the Philippine postal system is unreliable, slow, and often unpredictable. Many international shipments experience delays, go missing, or are held at customs for long periods.
Why We Advise Against Sending Packages
There are several reasons why we strongly discourage students from relying on international delivery during their stay:
- Unstable Delivery System: The national postal service in the Philippines is known for long delays, misrouting, and inconsistent tracking.
- High Customs Risk: Packages are often stopped at customs, especially if the contents are electronic items, supplements, food, cosmetics, or anything of high value.
- Additional Fees: Even if your package arrives, you may be asked to pay unexpected import taxes or release charges to claim it.
- Lack of Notifications: Students often never receive notice that their package has arrived or is being held.
For these reasons, many students who try to send or receive packages experience unnecessary stress and frustration.
Common Problems Students Face
- Waiting 4–8 weeks for a simple letter or small parcel
- Having to visit a customs office in person to release the item
- Being charged duties higher than the value of the package
- Lost packages with no tracking updates or compensation
Even well-known courier services like EMS, DHL, or FedEx are not 100% reliable once items enter the Philippine system.
✅ What to Do Instead
If you think you’ll need something during your stay (such as clothes, devices, study materials, or toiletries), it’s much better to:
- Bring everything with you in your luggage when you travel
- Buy locally in Cebu—there are many shopping malls, pharmacies, and tech stores available
- Ask someone coming from your country to hand-carry it for you
For example, Ayala Center Cebu and SM City Cebu offer a wide range of products—from clothing to electronics, school supplies, and personal care items. If you’re unsure whether a product is available in Cebu, feel free to ask our staff in advance.
If You Still Decide to Send or Receive a Package
If there’s absolutely no other option, and you still wish to send or receive a package, please follow these precautions:
1. Use a Reputable Courier
We recommend using trusted courier companies such as:
- DHL Express
- FedEx
- UPS
- TNT Express
These companies are more expensive than regular mail, but they offer better tracking and reliability.
2. Label the Package Clearly
Use the following format to address your parcel:
[Your Full Name]
C/O 3D ACADEMY
JY Square Mall, Lahug, Cebu City, 6000 Philippines
Phone: +63 [your local number or school contact number]
Always include a working phone number so the courier can reach you.
3. Keep the Contents Simple
Avoid sending items that could be delayed or flagged by customs, such as:
- Electronics or gadgets
- Liquids, creams, or supplements
- Food, medicine, or perishable items
Instead, send simple items like documents, photos, or personal letters if absolutely necessary.
4. Inform the School in Advance
If you are expecting a delivery, please notify the 3D ACADEMY staff ahead of time. We will do our best to assist, but we cannot guarantee delivery success, nor are we responsible for lost or delayed items.
Sending Packages from the Philippines
If you want to send something home during your stay, similar risks apply. International shipping from the Philippines is expensive and slow, especially through the national postal service. If you must send something, we suggest:
- Using DHL or FedEx for valuable or time-sensitive packages
- Keeping the package small and low-value to avoid customs issues
- Bringing it back in your suitcase if you’re returning soon
What Most Students Do
Most students at 3D ACADEMY avoid shipping entirely. They simply:
- Pack wisely before leaving their home country
- Shop locally for anything missing or forgotten
- Ask friends or family to bring items if visiting
This approach minimizes risk and avoids the hassle of dealing with customs, delivery errors, or lost parcels.
Final Advice
Yes, technically you can send or receive packages while studying at 3D ACADEMY—but you had better not. The Philippine mail system is not designed for reliability, especially for international shipments. Unless it’s urgent and you’re using a premium courier such as Fedex or DHL, we highly recommend avoiding international shipping during your stay.
When in doubt, ask our staff before making any shipping arrangements. We’re here to help you make the best choices for a smooth and enjoyable experience in Cebu.
About 3D ACADEMY
3D ACADEMY is a trusted English language school located inside JY Square Mall in Lahug, Cebu City, Philippines. Established in 2002, we have welcomed more than 20,000 students from over 50 countries, helping learners improve their English skills through personalized, immersive education in a warm and multicultural setting.
Why Choose 3D ACADEMY?
We specialize in one-on-one English instruction, giving students the opportunity to receive direct, customized feedback from experienced teachers. Our goal is to help you speak confidently and communicate effectively in real-life situations—whether for work, study, or travel.
We offer flexible and affordable packages that include classes, dormitory accommodation, meals, laundry, and daily support—all in one. Located inside a commercial complex, our campus provides easy access to restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies, cafes, and public transport, making daily life in Cebu safe and convenient.
Courses Offered
- General ESL: Ideal for improving overall communication skills
- Business English: For professionals needing workplace fluency
- IELTS/TOEFL Preparation: For students aiming to study or migrate abroad
- Power ESL: More one-on-one classes for faster progress
- Family & Junior Courses: Supportive programs for children and parents
Students at 3D ACADEMY come from all over the world—Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, and more. This international environment offers daily opportunities to practice English and build global friendships that last a lifetime.
Student Support
Our multilingual staff can assist you in English, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese. We provide airport pickup, visa extension help, medical assistance, and daily living support to make your experience smooth and stress-free from the moment you arrive.
Beyond the Classroom
We believe that language learning continues outside the classroom. That’s why we offer weekend trips, outreach programs, city tours, and cultural activities so you can explore Cebu and apply your English in real-world situations.
Join Us in Cebu
Whether you’re a student, a working professional, a retiree, or a family looking to study together, 3D ACADEMY has a place for you. Come study English in the heart of Cebu and experience learning in a supportive, global environment that feels like home.
