The Philippines is a captivating destination known for its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. As you explore this vibrant nation, one aspect you might be curious about is the tipping etiquette. Tipping practices can vary across cultures, and understanding the local norms can make your travels more enjoyable and respectful. As a local who has traversed the islands, I’m here to guide you through the intricacies of tipping in the Philippines.
This article was fact-checked by our Filipina writer (Nicole)
Key Takeaways:
- Tipping in the Philippines is optional but appreciated, with 10% being a common guideline for good service.
- In some establishments, a service charge is added to the bill, making additional tipping unnecessary.
- Cash is the preferred method for tipping, especially in smaller establishments.
- Tipping amounts may vary based on the service, location, and your personal discretion.
General Tipping Guidelines
In the Philippines, tipping is generally optional but appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for good service. While it is not strictly mandatory, leaving a tip can go a long way in showing your appreciation and contributing to the livelihoods of service workers.
The common tipping guideline in the Philippines is around 10% of the total bill or service cost. However, it’s important to note that this can vary depending on the service, location, and your personal discretion based on the quality of service received.
Many establishments, particularly larger hotels and upscale restaurants, may include a service charge on the bill, typically ranging from 10% to 12.5%. In such cases, additional tipping is not necessary, but you can still leave a small amount if you wish to express exceptional appreciation.
In my entire stay in the Philippines I don’t think I tipped once. No one cared. I may have paid a few extra pesos for something because I didn’t want the change, but I didn’t go out of my way to tip anyone. Tipping culture doesn’t exist here. I’m sure if you tip them they’d be very happy.
Tipping for Different Services
(some advice from our Filipina writer Nicole. Click the images to enlarge)
Tipping is not common practice here, but if you want to be generous you can. We’ve left some guidelines below for what to tip in the Philippines.
Restaurants
Tipping in restaurants is not a common practice in the Philippines. In higher end restaurants a service charge is usually included in the bill.
| Service Quality | Tipping Percentage |
|---|---|
| Exceptional Service | No tip or 15%+ |
| Good Service | No tip or 10% – 12% |
| Average Service | No tip |
| Poor Service | No tip |
Hotels
When staying at hotels in the Philippines, tipping is appreciated for services rendered by staff members such as bellhops, housekeeping, and concierges. Again, you don’t have to tip, but if you want to be nice, it will be thoroughly appreciated.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Bellhops/Porters: ₱20 – ₱50 per bag
- Housekeeping: ₱20 – ₱50 per day (left in the room)
- Concierge: ₱50 – ₱100 for exceptional assistance
Transportation
Tipping practices for transportation services in the Philippines are not mandatory, but you can tip Uber alternative ride-sharing services and Taxis if you wish.
Taxi Drivers
While tipping taxi drivers is not mandatory, it is appreciated as a gesture of goodwill. You can consider rounding up the fare to the nearest ₱10 or ₱20, especially if the driver has been helpful or provided exceptional service.
Ride-sharing Services (Grab, Angkas, etc.)
Tipping for ride-sharing services like Grab or Angkas is not expected, but you can leave a tip through the app if you wish to show appreciation for a particularly pleasant ride or helpful driver.
The apps will give you suggestions on what to leave.
Tour Guides and Drivers
For guided tours or private drivers, tipping is customary and a way to show gratitude for their knowledge, assistance, and hospitality. A general guideline is to tip around 10% of the tour cost or a set amount of ₱100 – ₱300, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
Other Services
- Spas and Salons: Tipping around 10% of the service cost is appreciated for massage therapists, hairstylists, and other spa/salon workers.
- Delivery Services: While not mandatory, you can tip delivery personnel a small amount (₱20 – ₱50) for prompt and courteous service.
- Street Vendors and Performers: If you appreciate the goods or entertainment provided by street vendors or performers, you can leave a small tip as a gesture of support.
Tips on Tipping Like a Local
To navigate tipping etiquette in the Philippines like a seasoned local, here are some helpful tips:
- Cash is King: While some establishments may accept card payments for tips, cash is the preferred method, especially in smaller establishments or for services like taxis or street vendors.
- Carry Small Denominations: Having smaller bills and coins on hand can make tipping more convenient, as service workers may not have ample change for larger denominations.
- Adjust Based on Service: While the 10% guideline is common, feel free to adjust the tip amount based on the quality of service received – a higher tip for exceptional service and a lower amount or no tip for poor service.
- Respect Local Customs: In some areas, tipping may not be a common practice or expected. Observe local customs and don’t feel obligated to tip if it’s not the norm in that particular region.
- Ask if Unsure: If you’re unsure about tipping etiquette in a specific situation, don’t hesitate to politely ask the service provider or a local for guidance.
FAQ
Is tipping expected in the Philippines?
Tipping is not strictly mandatory in the Philippines, but it is appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for good service, especially in the hospitality and tourism industries.
What is the standard tipping percentage in the Philippines?
The standard tipping percentage in the Philippines is around 10% of the total bill or service cost, but this can vary based on the quality of service received.
Do I need to tip if a service charge is already included?
If a service charge (typically 10% – 12.5%) is already included in the bill, additional tipping is not necessary, but you can still leave a small amount if you wish to show exceptional appreciation.
Is it okay to tip with foreign currency?
No people do not accept foreign currency in the Philippines (some may accept USD). It is always best to tip in Philippine pesos (₱) to ensure the service provider can easily use the tip without the hassle of currency exchange.
Can I tip using a credit card or mobile payment apps?
Some establishments may allow you to add a tip to your credit card payment or through mobile payment apps, but cash is the preferred method, especially in smaller businesses or for services like taxis or street vendors.
Who should I tip in the Philippines?
In the Philippines, tipping is appreciated for various service providers, including:
- Restaurant staff (waiters, servers)
- Hotel staff (bellhops, housekeeping, concierge)
- Tour guides and drivers
- Taxi drivers
- Spa and salon workers (masseurs, hairstylists)
- Delivery personnel
- Street vendors (if you appreciate their goods)
How can I show appreciation without tipping?
If you’re unable or prefer not to tip, there are other ways to show your appreciation for good service:
- Express your gratitude verbally or with a sincere smile
- Leave a positive review or feedback for the service provider or establishment
- Recommend the service provider or establishment to others
- Return as a loyal customer or visitor
- Share the shop on your social media so other travellers will go (especially if it’s not on the usual tourist circuit)
I’m Harry – and I was tired of the same old “10 best places I’ve never been but I’m writing about for some reason” blog posts. So… I’m a young traveller on a mission to travel the world and share my true, unfiltered experience, including all the gristly details. From packing my life into one bag for a year, to traveling Vietnam by motorbike, to sorting out Visas for specific countries – I’ve done it all, am doing it all and only give my advice on things I have done – not regurgitated cr*p from another source *cough* most publications *cough*. So bear with us! This project will take some time to grow, and will take a fair bit of money. But I’m determined to make it the single best source of information about traveling on the internet.
