Working in the Philippines

If you plan to establish your career working in the Philippines, you will soon notice that the local workforce is shaped by Spanish, American, Malay, and Chinese influences. The Philippines has an emerging economic market and a highly educated talent pool.

Metro Manila is a gateway to Southeast Asia, hosting numerous multinational corporations with regional headquarters in Makati. This bustling district is not only the country’s financial and business hub but also its diplomatic centre. Because of this global flair, you will rub shoulders with a large expat community living and working in the area.

Job market in the Philippines

When it comes to the job market in the Philippines, you will find that several sectors are booming. Information Technology and Business Process Management (IT-BPM) continue to thrive, while manufacturing, renewable energy, financial services, and construction are also experiencing impressive growth. These industries fuel both foreign investment and local enterprise, meaning there is no shortage of opportunities if you have the right skill set.

Traditional industries such as mining and food processing still play an important role in the country’s economy. Tourism remains a strong contender too, attracting visitors from all over the globe. You may also uncover chances to teach a foreign language or work in a call centre, particularly if you are interested in joining the flourishing outsourcing sector.

Finding a job in the Philippines

Finding a job in the Philippines can be a thrilling adventure if you know where to look. Many professionals relocate here through an intra-company transfer or by securing a role at a multinational corporation.

We recommend browsing the websites of local and international companies operating in the country to see if they are hiring. You can also search for vacancies on job portals such as JobStreet, Kalibrr and LinkedIn. Short introductions and active follow-ups can work wonders when you meet contacts through industry events or professional associations.

If you aim to work in the Philippines, remember to get a valid work visa before you arrive. Your employer typically handles your work permit, but you might still need to supply documents like a signed employment contract, passport details, and proof that no qualified local candidate can fill the position.

Visa applications and renewals can feel like navigating a maze. Processing times vary and may run several weeks or even months. Make sure you submit updated documents on time. Working without proper authorisation or letting your permit expire can result in hefty fines and possible deportation.

Visas in the Philippines

Useful links

• Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)
• JobStreet
• Kalibrr
• LinkedIn

Work culture in the Philippines

Work culture in the Philippines is shaped by deep-rooted values of respect, hierarchy, and group harmony. If you come from a Western background, you may find that workplace interactions are often less direct than you’re used to. Most professionals speak English, so communication barriers are minimal, but cultural nuances play a significant role in professional relationships.

Filipinos tend to favour indirect communication to maintain harmony. Criticism is rarely given outright, and non-verbal cues often carry as much weight as spoken words. This approach stems from the concept of hiya (a sense of shame) and the strong cultural desire to avoid embarrassment or conflict.

Hierarchy is deeply respected in Filipino workplaces. Employees show deference to superiors, often addressing them with titles like ‘Sir’ or ‘Ma'am’. Decision-making is usually top-down, and it is not common for subordinates to challenge leadership openly. Instead, dissenting opinions are communicated subtly or through intermediaries.

If you ever need to resolve a disagreement, private discussions work best. Public criticism can cause someone to ‘lose face’, which is highly undesirable. Using a mediator or offering feedback that emphasises group success rather than individual shortcomings can go a long way in maintaining positive relationships.

The standard workweek runs from Monday to Friday, with some offices operating on weekends. Most employees work from 8am to 5pm, typically with a one-hour lunch break. While punctuality is valued, Filipino business culture can sometimes be more relaxed with time, particularly in social settings.

Business Culture in the Philippines