Living in the Philippines 2020

Here you will experience a fascinating Southeast Asian culture.

Living in the Philippines: Influenced by Spanish and US colonialism, the way of life there is truly unique. For a first glimpse of life in the Philippines, read our guide on housing, healthcare, education, and safety for expats. If living in the Philippines, you will experience a fascinating Southeast Asian culture.

The Youthful Population of the Philippines

There are about 102 million people living in the Philippines, spread across about 2,000 of the nation’s 7,641 islands. Most of the population is still quite young; the median age is 23.2 years.

A quarter of the residents living in the Philippines. Amounting to 25.5 million — have settled in the country’s urban center, the Greater Manila metropolitan area. Cebu and its capital, Cebu City, account for a big part of the population as well.

Asian culture…

The country’s cultural diversity makes life in the Philippines quite attractive for many. The biggest ethnic groups are Tagalog (28.1%), Cebuano (13.1%), and Ilocano (9%). In terms of religion, the majority of the population is Roman Catholic (81%).

The Muslim minority in the Philippines makes up just 5% of the population. These figures are based on the latest census taking ethnic groups and religious affiliation into consideration and conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2000.

House-Hunting and living in the Philippines

The country’s 7,641 islands offer plenty of lifestyle choices for expats who want to live there. Rural farmhouses, condominiums, and rooms in shared apartments are all available. As is the case almost everywhere in the world, housing is not as widely available in urban centers. The rent is also higher than in remote rural areas.

The rents are highest in Metro Manila. The best and safest way to find a place to stay, during your expat life in the Philippines. Is through recommendations from friends and colleagues.

Internet listings like Philippines Properties and classified ads in local newspapers are also great ways to start. Important national dailies include The Philippine Star, The Daily Tribune, or Manila Bulletin.

There are about 102 million people living in the Philippines, spread across about 2,000 of the nation’s 7,641 islands.

The Healthcare System in the Philippines

In 1991, a local government code transferred the responsibility for healthcare services to local government units. Now, provincial governments run and administer provincial and district hospitals, and the governments of different municipalities, in turn. Now run rural health units in  barangay (village) health stations.

The Department of Health, on the other hand, manages specialty hospitals, regional hospitals, and health centers.

Medical services in the Philippines

The Medical services are provided, both by the public and the private sector. Private providers are becoming increasingly common and are predominantly located in big urban areas. Offering a wide range of facilities from pharmacies to maternity centers and hospitals. The public sector has three main providers:

• national government providers (hospitals and central as well as regional offices of the Department of Health)
• provincial government providers (hospitals, provincial blood banks, and provincial health offices)
• local government providers (of a city or municipality)

Unfortunately, public primary healthcare facilities are of rather low quality, particularly in rural areas. Current reforms aim to improve both quality and availability of essential healthcare for people living in the Philippines.

Places To Live in The Philippines and Asian culture

Living in the Philippines: Being an archipelago with over 7,000 islands. Each island in the Philippines brags salient features, that make it either a touristy, homey destination or both. Whether it’s because of the peaceful ambiance, an array of gorgeous white-sand beaches, or a cooler climate. One might consider moving to one of these places in the country.

Baguio City, Luzon Island, Philippines.

The City of Pines, also known as the country’s Summer Capital. Because, of the cooler climate. Compared to the majority of the provinces in the country. With that, fruits and vegetables are always fresh and walking from one establishment to another isn’t a problem.

Because of its calm and cool ambiance, it seemingly puts residents into a good mood at all times. While commercialization is definitely obvious and heavy traffic builds up every now and then. Baguio City preserves its charm, laid-back atmosphere, art scenes, and of course, the stunning, nature attractions.

Tagaytay City, Vulcan Point, Philippines.

When it comes to spur-of-the-moment out of town trips, Tagaytay is always a common top choice among travelers. That’s because it only takes less than two hours from Manila to reach this destination. Whether it’s a trip with a group of friends or a vacation with the whole family. The numerous leisure and outdoor activities definitely won’t disappoint.

Apart from the cool temperature and its close proximity to Metro Manila. The breathtaking view of Taal Lake will always leave you in awe.

Lipa City, Batangas, Philippines.

If you’re a beach bum who loves peace and quiet. You won’t get enough of the stunning, picturesque beaches in the province of Batangas. Whether it’s fine white-sand beaches or rocky shores. Batangas has various beach resorts perfect for solitude-seekers. The province also caters to newbie hikers and climbers because of its hiking and mountain climbing destinations. Here you will discover real asian culture.

If you’re considering, moveing to Batangas. Lipa City is a top choice. Especially among retirees because of its cooler climate and ideal location. Being close to nature’s best attractions and convenient travel to the country’s capital, Manila.

Sta. Rosa City, Laguna, Philippines.

Apart from being home to various historical spots, nature parks, hot springs, and popular theme park Enchanted Kingdom. Major commercialization developments. And, if you’re someone who’s looking to move within an areas of greens yet provides accessible modern comforts. Such as food parks, malls, and other commercial establishments, the booming area of Santa Rosa City is a perfect choice.

What was once a vast fields of greens, has developed into a conducive, family-friendly environment. Characterized by open spaces and rich natural surroundings while offering retail centers for residents’ everyday needs.

Subic, Zambales, Philippines.

Renowned for being a former US naval base, Subic has also become a popular tourist attraction among adventure-seekers. Because of thrilling rides, diving areas for shipwrecks and coral species, and wondrous beaches.

While it’s famous among families or those traveling in groups. Subic area is also a sought-after residential spot for offering both rural and urban living. Even if it’s four hours away from Metro Manila, it has unique shopping and dining options. The best part is, one can drive around safely because traffic rules are strictly implemented.

Manila Makati City, Philippines.

Amidst the horrendous situation of Manila traffic, business-capital Makati City is a standout city in the country’s National Capital Region. Apart from offering everything that one needs within the vast commercial and business establishments. Both home seekers and investors are keen to invest in this area.

For home seekers, top-quality condominiums are available and thus, provides convenience. For those who work around the area and prefer to enjoy the city life. The government has implement security and traffic rules. Which guarantees one’s overall safety.

Cebu City, Philippines.

Being the Visayas Region‘s main business hub. Cebu boasts are the perfect combination of both urban and natural attractions within one’s reach. One can easily immerse in good food, entertainment, rich culture, and world-class beaches. Such as those in Malapascua, Sumilon, and Bantayan within a short distance.

Apart from being the location of the grand Sinulog Festival and being home to famous native delicacies. There’s a number of growing economic centers and industries for those seeking new career opportunities. In addition, Cebuanos are also generally well-known to be accommodating individuals.

Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines.

This City has been awarded twice, for being the best city to live in. By two separate magazines in the years 2008 and 2017. This comes as no surprise. Because it offers amenities like that of a highly-urbanized city but only better. A cleaner and greener environment, absence of traffic woes, and a lower cost of living.

It’s also home to the most delectable cuisine where restaurants, pastry shops and fine dining restaurants. It give one a taste of how the sweet life is. Like in the city found within the country’s Sugar Bowl Capital. Bacolod City is also known as ‘The City of Smiles’ and that’s because its charming locals. They are known for their warmth and hospitality.

Iloilo City, Philippines.

Being one of the highlights of Panay Island, Iloilo City is dubbed as the ‘jewel’ of the Western Visayas. This close neighbor of Bacolod City is also home to genuinely kind people and also has a highly-urbanized setting. While fostering a relaxed atmosphere.

There are only a few traffic jams experienced within this city and so, it’s expected that locals here are happier. Apart from the Dinagyang Festival which is the city’s biggest cultural and widely-celebrated festival.

And hitting the beaches and island-hopping are right outside the city as it’s near the islands of Boracay and Guimaras. They also have bike-friendly lanes, an esplanade ideal for relaxing late afternoon walks, and heavenly seafood restaurants!

Davao City, Philippines.

The city is considered as one of the most livable and safest growing cities in the world primarily. Because of its low crime rates and strict enforcement of discipline and order by its local government. It has a centralized communication in providing emergency responses to its residents.

And because Davao City is easily accessible via land, sea or air travel, it’s no wonder. That it has also become a business hub and a regional center in southern Philippines. As one of the fastest developing cities. The local government has its full support in ensuring that public utilities and infrastructures are well-maintained.

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