Live and work in the Philippines
The Philippines is known for the endless options of adventure through tropical landscapes while experiencing vibrant cultures, and warm-hearted people.
Here we will provide you with much more insight in the exotic gem.
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Latest available jobs in the Philippines
Danish Sales Team Leader / Sales Coach – Moalboal, Cebu (Philippines)
Sales Team Leader in Moalboal – lead, coach, and grow a high-performing telemarketing team while building your career in a tropical, international environment.
Currency
The Philippine peso (ISO code: PHP, symbol ₱) is the official currency
Famous people
Some famous Filipino people are Bianca Gonzalez, Marian Rivera, and Niana Guerrero
Population
The Philippines has ~113.9 million residents, many living in Manila and Caloocan City
Typical food
Adobo (stew with pork or chicken), lumpia (deep fried spring roll), pancit (noodle dish), cassave cake (with cassava flour and coconut milk)
Avg. working week
They have a 4-5 day work week, 8-10 hours daily, - depends on the company
Location
The Philippines is located in Southeast Asia on the eastern periphery of the Asiatic Mediterranean. The capital city is Manila
Languages
The official language is Filipino (Tagalog and Cebuano) and also English
Healthcare
Healthcare in the Philippines is generally of high standards but it varies in big cities and more remote areas of the country
What you need to know about living and working in the Philippines
The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia that has rich traditions, unique culture and natural beauty. There are more than 7,000 islands, and many of them are known for their stunning beaches, festivals, and warm hospitality.
There is a fast growing expat community in the Philippines. English is widely spoken, and the Philippines has become a hub for business process outsourcing (BPO) companies, attracting professionals from different industries. Their business culture is influenced by their cultural values, and they appreciate personal relationships. Meetings often involve building relationships over meals. The workweek typically runs from Monday to Friday, with an average of 40 hours.
Taxes in the Philippines
If you secure a job in the Philippines, you’ll need to navigate the tax system. You’ll be required to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) and contribute to income tax, which is progressive, with rates starting at 5%.
Popular cities in the Philippines
Speak to one of our recruiters
Life in the Philippines
Imagine moving to Philippines and being greeted by the tropical sunshine and the scent of freshly brewed coffee. The Philippines offers a white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs which make it a diver’s paradise. Filipino food is a mix of flavours with 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 try the world-famous balut, a fertilized duck egg considered a delicacy by locals.
Basic facts about the Philippines
The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia, consisting of over 7,000 islands. Its capital city is Manila, and the official languages are Filipino and English. The country is known for its diverse landscapes with amazing beaches and mountains, and a unique cultural scene.
5 fun facts about the Philippines
- The Philippines is the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia, due to its Spanish colonial history.
- Filipinos are known for celebrating the longest Christmas season in the world, starting in September.
- The country is a biodiversity hotspot with unique species of flora and fauna.
- The jeepney, a colourful and iconic type of public transportation, is a popular way to get around.
- Filipinos have a strong love for basketball, and it’s a national pastime activity.
Philippine culture and traditional food
The Philippines culture is influenced by its history of colonisation and trade. Family plays a central role in Filipino society, and respect for the elderly is deeply rooted. They are also known for their hospitality and friendliness, which makes it easy for expats to feel welcome.
The culture is also characterised by celebrations, festivals, traditional dances, and a rich culinary heritage.
Filipino food is a lovely mix of flavours reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. These are some of their traditionel sweet and savoury dishes:
- Adobo: A national favourite, marinated and slow-cooked meat (often chicken or pork) in a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices.
- Sinigang: A sour tamarind-based soup with different meats, vegetables, and broth.
- Lechon: A festive centerpiece, which is a whole roasted pig with crispy skin and tender meat.
- Balut: a fertilized duck egg with a partially developed embryo, often seasoned and enjoyed boiled – perceived as a delicacy.
- Halo-Halo: A refreshing and colourful dessert with a mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, jellies, and evaporated milk.
Finding accommodation in the Philippines
Finding accommodation can be a challenge, particularly in urban areas like Manila. Prices vary depending on the location, where rental prices in the city centres generally are higher. It can be very useful to ask your networks, visit websites and utilise local Facebook groups for rental purposes in your search.
How expensive is living in the Philippines?
The cost of living in the Philippines is generally lower than in many Western countries. However, prices can vary depending on your lifestyle and location. Here you can get a glimpse of some common and approximate monthly expenses in Euros:
- Accommodation: €250 – €500
- Food: €150
- Public transport: €30
- Mobile rate (1min prepaid): €0.10
- Fitness club pass: €26
- Cinema ticket: €4
- Pint of beer: €1.50
Total: €461 – €721
Expats in the Philippines
The Philippines attracts expats seeking a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals. English proficiency is widespread, and the country offers welfare benefits, free education, and healthcare. Therefore, you will clearly see the big – and still rising – community of expats and remote workers enjoying their lives in this tropical paradise.
Learning Filipino
While English is widely spoken, learning some basic Filipino phrases can enhance your experience while living there. It also shows your commitment to the local culture, and locals will perceive it as a sign of respect. Free online courses are available for those interested in learning some of the complexities of the Filipino language.
Still not convinced about the Philippines?
Living in the Philippines means embracing a tropical climate and a relaxed way of life. Enjoy sunny days on the beach, dive into colourful coral reefs, or go on adventures like hiking 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. Discover the warmth of Filipino communities, where strong family bonds and community ties create a sense of belonging.
Join in traditional celebrations, dance to the lively beat of “tinikling,” and enjoy the rich culture of the Philippines. You can also explore ancient rice terraces in Banaue, or marvel at the vibrant festivals that showcase the country’s diverse heritage.
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.