GCash and Maya
The everyday wallets for shops and bills. Passport KYC sometimes works, sometimes wants a local ID. Start here before a bank.
Money & living costs
Peso converter, monthly budgets, and banks that work with a foreign passport.
Converter
— PHP
| Typical monthly budget | Modest | Comfortable | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (studio / 1BR) | ₱12–20k | ₱25–45k | ₱50–90k |
| Food | ₱8–12k | ₱15–25k | ₱30k+ |
| Power & internet | ₱3–5k | ₱5–9k | ₱10k+ |
| Transport | ₱2–4k | ₱5–10k | ₱12k+ |
| Rough total | ₱30–45k | ₱55–90k | ₱120k+ |
Banks & wallets
BDO, BPI, UnionBank
The large banks. A foreign account usually wants a valid passport, ACR I-Card, and proof of address. UnionBank is often the smoother digital path.
ATMs and remittances
Use the bank's own ATM to cut fees. Wise, Western Union, and MoneyGram from the Gulf. Skip airport money desks.
Tipping
Not mandatory. 5–10% in restaurants if service isn't added. Never tip a government window.
Guidance only. Fees and rules change. Check immigration.gov.ph and your embassy before you act.