Good value overall, with transport as the main variable
The Philippines is generally affordable but the cost of inter-island transport — particularly domestic flights to Palawan and Siargao — adds up quickly. Here is the realistic breakdown.
Flights
Manila to El Nido (Puerto Princesa): PHP 1,500-3,500 one way on Cebu Pacific or AirAsia booked in advance. Manila to Siargao: PHP 1,500-4,000. Manila to Cebu: PHP 800-2,000. International to Manila from Southeast Asia: $80-200 depending on origin. Budget for flights carefully — they represent a significant portion of Philippines trip costs.
Accommodation
Budget guesthouse or fan room: PHP 500-1,000/night ($9-18). Mid-range: PHP 1,500-3,500/night. Beachfront resort: PHP 4,000-12,000+/night. Prices are significantly higher in El Nido during peak season (December-February) — book far ahead.
Food
Turo-turo (point-at-what-you-want rice meal): PHP 60-120. Seafood at a tourist beachfront restaurant: PHP 400-800 per person. A fresh whole grilled fish at a local restaurant: PHP 200-400. Filipino food is excellent value — lechon (roast pig), kinilaw (raw fish in vinegar), adobo, sinigang are all cheap and delicious.
Island hopping and activities
El Nido island-hopping tour: PHP 1,200-1,500. Diving: $30-50 per dive. Surfing lesson Siargao: $30-50. Whale shark snorkeling Oslob: PHP 1,000-1,500.
Daily budget
Budget: PHP 2,000-3,500/day ($36-63). Mid-range: PHP 4,000-7,000/day. Excluding flights.