Philippine Living
Practical information about everyday life in the Philippines, including housing, transportation, cost of living, healthcare, banking, safety, internet, utilities, and other topics that help foreigners and long-term residents adjust to life in the country.
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Cost of Living in the Philippines in 2026: How Much Do You Really Need per Month?
The cost of living in the Philippines in 2026 can vary dramatically depending on where you live and the lifestyle you choose. One of the first questions foreigners ask when considering retirement, relocation, or a long stay in the country is simple: How much money do I actually need every month? Unfortunately, there is no…
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Electric Vehicles in Manila 2026: Is an EV Practical Yet?
Electric vehicles are becoming much more visible on Metro Manila roads. New models are entering the market at increasingly competitive prices, charging stations are appearing in malls, offices, condominiums, dealerships and other locations, and high fuel prices are making the cost of driving on electricity more attractive. But buying an electric vehicle in Manila is…
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The Philippines Is Now an Upper-Middle-Income Country. What Does It Mean?
The Philippines Upper-Middle-Income Country classification became official in 2026 when the World Bank moved the Philippines from lower-middle-income to upper-middle-income status. For the World Bank’s current fiscal-year classification, upper-middle-income economies are those with a gross national income, or GNI, per capita between US$4,636 and US$14,375. This is an important milestone. The World Bank described the…
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Condo Living and Transportation in Manila for Newbies
For many foreigners, retirees, and long-term residents, condominium living is one of the most practical housing choices in Metro Manila. Condominiums often provide better security, convenient locations, building maintenance, and easy access to malls, offices, restaurants, hospitals, supermarkets, and transportation. But choosing a condominium in Manila is not simply a matter of finding a nice…
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Living in the Philippines as a Foreigner: A Practical Guide for Newcomers
Living in the Philippines as a foreigner can be exciting, comfortable, and sometimes challenging. For many foreigners, including Koreans and other long-term residents, the Philippines offers warm weather, widespread use of English, friendly communities, beautiful destinations, and living costs that can still be lower than in many developed countries. But living here is very different…
