Have you decided to Move to Philippines?
Whether you’re planning a tourist trip or a business relocation, here’s what you should know before you go.

General Overview

• Official country name: Republic of the Philippines
• Location: Southeast Asia, Western Pacific Ocean
• Capital city: Manila
• Official language(s): Filipino, English
• Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
• Time zone: UTC+8

Culture & Traditions

• Key customs to be aware of:
  • Strong family values and respect for elders (use of “po” and “opo” in speech).
  • “Bayanihan” (community spirit) and hospitality are important cultural traits.
  • Smiling is common and seen as a sign of friendliness.
• Number of official public holidays: 18 days
  • New Year’s Day (1 January)
  • Maundy Thursday & Good Friday (movable)
  • Araw ng Kagitingan / Day of Valor (9 April)
  • Labor Day (1 May)
  • Independence Day (12 June)
  • Ninoy Aquino Day (21 August)
  • National Heroes Day (last Monday of August)
  • All Saints’ Day (1 November)
  • Bonifacio Day (30 November)
  • Christmas Day (25 December)
  • Rizal Day (30 December)

👉 See the full Philippines holidays & days off guide.

• Main traditional dishes and local drinks:
  • Dishes:
    Adobo, Sinigang, Lechon, Pancit, Kare-Kare, Halo-Halo (dessert).
  • Drinks:
    Buko juice (coconut water), Tuba (fermented coconut wine), San Miguel Beer.
• Languages spoken daily:
  Filipino/Tagalog and English (widespread); Cebuano, Ilocano, and other regional languages.
• 3 common phrases to learn:
  • Kumusta? (How are you?)
  • Salamat (Thank you)
  • Magkano po? (How much?)
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• Specific clothing and behavioral norms:
  • Light clothing due to the tropical climate.
  • Business and formal events require barong tagalog (for men) and Filipiniana dresses (for women).
  • Avoid direct confrontation; Filipinos value harmony and non-confrontational behavior.

👉 Learn about culture and Festivals in the Philippines

Demographics & Society

• Total population: Approximately 114 million
• Major ethnic groups:
  Tagalog, Cebuano, Ilocano, Bisaya, Bicolano, Waray, and other indigenous groups.
• Main religion:
  Christianity (mainly Roman Catholic – about 80%), Islam (around 6%)
• General safety level:
  • Generally safe but be cautious of petty crime in urban areas.
  • Some regions in Mindanao have security concerns due to insurgencies.
• Attitude towards foreigners and diversity:
  • Filipinos are known for their hospitality and warmth towards foreigners.
  • Many locals speak English, making communication easy for expats.

Key Cities & Regions

• Capital city:
  • Manila (1.9 million people) – Economic and cultural hub, known for its colonial history and bustling city life.

👉 Learn about Manila

• Major cities:
  • Quezon City (2.9 million) – Largest city, home to government offices and universities.
  • Davao City (1.8 million) – Clean and safe, famous for Mount Apo and durian fruit.
  • Cebu City (1 million) – Economic hub in the Visayas, known for beaches and historical sites.

👉 Learn about Cebu city

• • Zamboanga City (977,000) – Known for Spanish influence and the Chavacano language.
  • Baguio City (366,000) – Mountain city with a cooler climate, a popular retreat.
• Must-visit regions or landmarks:
  • Palawan – Limestone cliffs, world-class diving
  • Bohol – Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, beaches
  • Siargao – Surf capital, laid-back island life
  • Ilocos – Heritage towns, beaches, wind farms
  • Cordillera – Rice terraces, trekking

Weather & Climate

• Type of climate:
  Tropical; hot, humid; distinct wet (Jun–Nov) and dry (Dec–May) seasons
• Average seasonal temperatures:
  • Dry season (November – May): 24-34°C
  • Rainy season (June – October): 22-32°C, risk of typhoons.
• Best times to visit:
  November to April for dry and cooler weather, plan around typhoon months

Schooling

• System of schooling:
  K-12 system;
  Public, private, and international schools

• Age and degree:
  Kindergarten to Grade 12;
  University follows

• International school and language:
  English-medium schools in Metro Manila, Cebu, Clark/Subic

• Cost/Pricing:
  Public schools low cost; international schools vary widely

• Advices:
  Start school search early for waitlists; check accreditation and IB/AP options

👉 See School Search Service.

Health & Care

• System type:
  Mixed public/private; top private hospitals in major cities

• Different structures to get support:
  Public hospitals, private hospitals/clinics, 24/7 urgent care

• Cost:
  Public care affordable; private care higher but faster; international health insurance recommended

Banking

• System type: Modernizing; BSP-regulated

• How to pay:
  Cash and cards; mobile wallets (GCash, Maya) widely used

• How to transfer:
  SWIFT transfers; remittance centers; app-based banking

• Banking access for foreigners:
  Possible with valid visa, local address, and ID (requirements vary by bank)

Practical Infomations

• Entry requirements:
  • Visa-free entry for up to 30 days for many nationalities.
  • Long-term stays require a visa or residence permit.
  • EU citizens:
    Many eligible for visa-free entry for short stays; check conditions for extensions/long-stay permits
  • Non-EU citizens:
    Visa-free or visa-on-arrival for many passports; long-term stays require appropriate visas/work permits
  • VN citizens: Typically visa-free for short stays (check current policy and onward ticket rules)
  • TH citizens: Typically visa-free for short stays (check current policy and onward ticket rules)

👉 See Visa & Immigration Services

• Local transportation options:
  • Jeepneys (affordable, iconic public transport but can be crowded).
  • Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Grab is popular).
  • Buses and trains in Metro Manila.
  • Tricycles and motorbikes for short distances in small towns.
• Cost of living:
  • Housing:
    Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Manila:
    PHP 20,000–35,000 ($350–600).
    Highest in Makati/BGC/Ortigas and central Cebu; more affordable in Davao and provincial cities

👉 See Home Search services

• • Food:
    Eating out is affordable, with local meals costing PHP 100–300 ($2–5).
  • Transport:
    Jeepney rides cost around PHP 12 ($0.20), taxi fares start at PHP 45 ($0.80).
• Electrical outlets and voltage used:
  Type A, B, C outlets, 220V.
• Emergency numbers to know:
  • Police: 117
  • Fire: 160
  • Ambulance: 911

Visitor Tips

• Gestures to avoid or cultural taboos:
  • Avoid pointing with your finger; use an open palm or your lips.
  • Do not raise your voice or engage in public confrontation.
  • Removing shoes before entering someone’s home is common.
• Specific regulations:
  • Alcohol is widely available, but drinking in public places is restricted in some cities.
  • Drug laws are very strict, with severe penalties for possession.
• Tips for integrating locally:
  • Learn a few basic Tagalog phrases to connect with locals.
  • Filipinos value respect, so always address elders with courtesy.
  • Be open to social invitations—hospitality is a key part of Filipino culture.
• Potential risks or important considerations:
  • Typhoons are common from June to October, with occasional flooding. 
  • Traffic congestion is severe in major cities, particularly Manila.
  • Healthcare is good in urban areas but limited in remote regions.