Getting Philippine Pesos for Your Trip

The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, and while tourism infrastructure has modernised significantly, it remains primarily a cash-based economy. This is especially true once you venture beyond Manila's shopping malls and international hotels.

The Philippine Peso (PHP, symbol ₱) comes in banknotes of ₱20, ₱50, ₱100, ₱200, ₱500, and ₱1,000. You'll frequently encounter situations where vendors cannot break large notes, so always keep small denominations handy. Coins exist but are rarely used by tourists.

Key insight for 2026: Digital payments via GCash and Maya are exploding among locals, but these apps require a Philippine phone number and bank account. As a tourist, cash remains your most reliable payment method, especially on islands and in beach destinations like El Nido, Siargao, and Boracay.

Best Ways to Get PHP Before You Travel

Unlike some destinations where pre-ordering currency offers poor value, the Philippines is flexible — you can arrive with GBP or USD and exchange locally at competitive rates, or simply withdraw from ATMs upon arrival.

1. Multi-currency travel card (Wise, Revolut) — Best overall option. Withdraw from ATMs at excellent exchange rates. Just factor in the ₱200-250 ATM fee charged by Philippine banks.
2. Bring USD or GBP cash — US Dollars are widely accepted for exchange throughout the Philippines. GBP works too, though USD gets slightly better rates. Money changers in malls offer excellent rates.
3. Order PHP before travelling — Available from UK bureaux, though rates are typically worse than what you'll find in Manila. Only useful if you want cash in hand on arrival.
4. Exchange at UK airports — Poor rates, not recommended. Better to arrive with USD/GBP or use ATM on arrival.

Using Cards in the Philippines

Card acceptance in the Philippines is limited compared to more developed Asian destinations. Here's what to expect:

Where cards generally work:

• International hotels and resorts (though many charge 2-4% surcharge)
• Shopping malls in Manila, Cebu, and major cities (SM, Ayala, Robinsons)
• High-end restaurants and bars in tourist areas
• Airlines and major travel booking sites
• Some convenience stores (7-Eleven in malls)

Where you'll need cash:

• Local restaurants, carinderias (local eateries), and street food
• Beach resorts on smaller islands — many are cash only
• Island hopping tours, boat transfers, dive shops
• Tricycles, jeepneys, and local transport
• Market stalls, small shops, and souvenirs
• Most accommodation outside major cities
• Entrance fees to attractions, waterfalls, and beaches

Pro tip: Even places that accept cards often have unreliable terminals or add surcharges. Always have cash backup.

Withdrawing Cash from ATMs in the Philippines

ATMs are your most reliable source of cash throughout the Philippines. However, there are some quirks to be aware of:

Best ATMs to use:

• BDO (Banco de Oro) — Most widespread, found in malls and towns. Limit typically ₱10,000 per transaction. Fee: ₱250.
• BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) — Reliable and widely available. Limit ₱10,000-20,000. Fee: ₱200.
• HSBC — Higher withdrawal limits (up to ₱40,000) but only in major cities. Fee varies.
• Metrobank — Good alternative, widely available. Limit ₱10,000-20,000. Fee: ₱200.

ATM tips:

• Most ATMs charge ₱200-250 per withdrawal regardless of amount — withdraw the maximum to minimise fees
• ATMs can run out of cash on weekends and holidays, especially on islands
• Always decline the ATM's offer to convert to your home currency (Dynamic Currency Conversion) — always choose PHP
• Notify your bank before travel — foreign ATM withdrawals may trigger fraud alerts
• In remote areas (El Nido, Siargao, small islands), ATMs may be scarce or frequently empty — withdraw plenty in larger towns

Island hopping warning: If heading to remote islands or beach destinations, withdraw enough cash before leaving larger towns. Many islands have no ATMs at all, or ATMs that frequently run out of cash.

Exchanging Money When You Arrive

The Philippines has a competitive money exchange market, especially in Manila and Cebu. If you're bringing USD or GBP cash, you'll often get better rates than ATM withdrawals once ATM fees are factored in.

At Manila (NAIA) Airport:

Airport money changers have surprisingly reasonable rates — not the best, but acceptable for initial amounts. There are multiple exchange booths in both arrival halls. Only exchange enough for your first day (₱2,000-5,000) and get better rates in the city.

Best places to exchange in Manila:

• Czarina Foreign Exchange — Multiple mall locations, consistently good rates
• Sanry's Money Changer — Popular among expats, excellent rates in Makati
• SM Mall money changers — Convenient and competitive rates
• Ayala Center money changers — Good rates in Makati

In Cebu, Boracay, and tourist areas:

Money changers are found in malls and main streets. Rates are typically slightly worse than Manila but still competitive. In Boracay, rates along Station 2 are reasonable. In El Nido, options are limited — exchange in Puerto Princesa or bring enough cash.

Tip: USD gets the best exchange rates, followed by EUR and GBP. Always count your money before leaving the counter.

Money Safety Tips for the Philippines

The Philippines is generally safe for tourists, but petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Here's how to protect your money:

• Use a money belt or hidden pouch — Especially in crowded markets, jeepneys, and tourist spots
• Don't flash large amounts of cash — Be discreet when paying, especially in markets
• Split your money — Keep daily spending separate from your main stash; leave backup in hotel safe
• Watch for ATM skimmers — Use ATMs inside banks or malls, not standalone machines
• Keep small denominations handy — Avoid needing to show ₱1,000 notes for small purchases
• Use hotel safes — Most hotels provide free safes; use them for excess cash and documents
• Photocopy important documents — Keep copies of passport and cards separate from originals

Crime against tourists is relatively rare, especially in resort areas. Use common sense, and you'll have no problems.