Live and work in the Philippines

Popular cities in the Philippines

Life in Philippines

Imagine moving to Philippines and being greeted by the tropical sunshine and the scent of freshly brewed coffee. The Philippines is home to over 7,000 islands, offering a paradise of white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs that make it a diver’s paradise.

Filipino cuisine is a delectable fusion of flavours. Indulge in dishes like adobo, sinigang, and the iconic halo-halo, a refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and creamy toppings. Don’t forget to savor the world-famous balut, a fertilized duck egg considered a delicacy by locals.

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Quick facts about working in Philippines

  • Average working hours per week: 40 hours, 8-10 hours daily, 4-5 days
  • Number of Vacation days: around 15 days
  • Commute: Mostly by bus, taxi, and tricycles
  • Work culture: hierarchical

You will have colleagues from everywhere, but you will speak in your own native language, supporting customers from your country.

Read more about Moving to the Philippines

Quick info about Philippines

Typical food

Adobo (stew with pork or chicken), lumpia (deep fried spring roll), pancit (noodle dish), cassave cake (with cassava flour and coconut milk)

Population

~113.9 million people

Location

The Philippines is located in Southeast Asia on the eastern periphery of the Asiatic Mediterranean. The capital city is Manila.

Languages

Filipino (Tagalog and Cebuano) & English

Famous people

Bianca Gonzalez, Marian Rivera, Niana Guerrero

Currency

Philippine peso (ISO code: PHP, symbol ₱)

Avg. working week

40 hours 
8-10 hours daily, 4-5 days

Healthcare

Healthcare in the Philippines is generally of high standards

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Other countries nearby

FAQ

EU citizens can work for up to 30 days without a work permit, and after that you will need to apply for a work visa. You can read all about it here.

The Philippines has a tropical climate. The dry season, from November to April, is generally considered the peak tourist season, offering sunny weather and ideal conditions for beach activities. The wet season, from May to October, provides lush landscapes. It’s important to research the specific regions you plan to move to, as weather patterns can vary across the archipelago.

The Philippines offers a variety of public transport options to explore its cities and islands. In urban areas, you can rely on jeepneys (converted military jeeps), as well as buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Grab. Tricycles, motorized tricycles with sidecars, are popular for short trips in local neighborhoods. Inter-city travel is facilitated by buses and vans, while domestic flights connect different regions. 

Healthcare in the Philippines varies in quality and accessibility. Major cities offer modern medical facilities, but rural areas may lack adequate services. Private healthcare is often preferred for better quality, while public healthcare is more affordable but may have limited resources. Expats should consider securing health insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage during their stay.

Still not convinced about Philippines?

Living in the Philippines means embracing a tropical climate and a relaxed way of life. Enjoy sunny days on the beach, dive into colorful marine sanctuaries, or embark on adventures like hiking majestic mountains and exploring hidden waterfalls.

Furthermore, Filipino hospitality is legendary. You can engage with the friendly locals, who are known for their smiles and genuine warmth, and embrace the “bayanihan” spirit of unity and helpfulness. Join in traditional celebrations, dance to the lively beat of “tinikling,” and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Philippines.

Because the Philippines is truly a tapestry of cultures and traditions, and the history of Intramuros in Manila, you can explore ancient rice terraces in Banaue, or marvel at the vibrant festivals that showcase the country’s diverse heritage. Discover the warmth of Filipino communities, where strong family bonds and community ties create a sense of belonging.

Speak to one of our recruiters

Camilla L. Dreyer

Camilla