Philippines travel money tips
Heading to Philippines? Here's a quick rundown of how to handle money on the ground — tipping etiquette, when to use cards versus cash, the best ATMs to use, and the most common pitfalls travelers run into. The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP, ₱).
Tipping
10% in restaurants if no service charge, 20–50 PHP for porters and housekeeping, round up taxi fares.
Cards vs cash
Cards in Manila, Cebu, and resorts. Cash everywhere else — bring small bills (50, 100 PHP).
Payment methods accepted
ATMs & cash tip
BDO, BPI, and Metrobank ATMs cap withdrawals at 10,000–20,000 PHP with a 250 PHP fee. HSBC ATMs allow 40,000 PHP per pull.
Heads-up
- Use Grab in Manila — street taxis often refuse the meter or detour deliberately.
- Always count change at small kiosks and avoid breaking a 1,000 PHP note for tiny purchases.
About the Philippine Peso (PHP)
The Philippine Peso (PHP, symbol ₱) is the official currency of Philippines. Knowing the live PHP rate against your home currency helps you sanity-check menu prices, taxi fares, and souvenir markups while traveling.
More travel tips
See all country tips →Tips are general guidance for travelers, not legal or financial advice. Customs vary — confirm with local sources for important plans.