Useful information in Manila, Philippines
When moving abroad, it is very crucial that you know who are providing the basic amenities such as water, electricity as well as telecommunications companies, emergency numbers and important agencies for expats. Here is a list of some information that’ll help you in your relocation:
Telecommunications
All telecommunication companies operating in Manila and across the country are under the supervision of a government agency called National Telecommunications Commission (NTC). NTC is in charge in supervising the installation, operation and maintenance of both the public and private providers. The National Capital Region where Manila is situated has the highest number of fixed line telephones in the country. The two major fixed line providers in Manila are:
- Bayan Telecommunications (BayanTel)
GF, G Espana Tower, 2203 Espana Boulevard
Brgy.530, Sampaloc West, Manila City
Tel.No.: (02) 874-7474
- Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT)
Recto Ave, Quiapo, Manila
Tel.No.: (02) 888 8171
According to the Business Monitor International, the number of mobile subscribers in Manila and the whole country is expected to rise to 117 million by the end of 2016. Smartphones are the trend for many Filipinos. The Philippines is also referred to as the ‘Social Media Capital’ of the world because of the long hours they spend in online streaming.
In Manila, cellular companies offer broadband packages as well; which make them a one-stop shop for expats looking for mobile and internet service. Here are the leading providers in the city:
- Globe Telecom
Tel. No: (02) 730-1000
- Smart Communications
Tel. No.: (02) 888-1111
- Sun Cellular
Tel. No.: (02) 395- 8776
Currently, telecommunication companies are not offering unlimited internet plan in Manila. Customers can choose between different data plans wherein they will only be billed based on their consumption. Broadband connections can also be bundled with fixed telephone lines and cable TV, upon the customer’s request. The range and average monthly bills of the different data plans are as follows:
| Broadband Monthly Price | Maximum Speed | Data Allowance |
| €20 | 2 Mbps | 20 GB |
| €25 | 3 Mbps | 30 GB to 50GB |
| €30 | 5 Mbps | 50 GB to 60 GB |
| €40 | 7 Mbps | 60 GB to 70 GB |
Utilities
Regardless if you are renting or living in a purchased house, the cost of utilities is for you to shoulder. Monthly bills usually arrive every 15th or 16th of the month, and you can pay your bills directly to their respective offices or through ‘Bayad Centres’ or the provider’s accredited payment centres. Payments can also be made online thru bank transfer which is a more convenient way of settling your monthly bills.
Manila Electric Company is the largest and only provider of electricity in Manila. It holds a massive amount of power distribution franchise for 22 cities and 89 municipalities including Metro Manila and other cities in Luzon. It is also a privately owned corporation headed by the business magnate Manny V. Pangilinan.
- Meralco Electric Company (MERALCO)
2200 España corner Josefina 3 St., Sampaloc, Manila
Tel. No.: 1622-3776
There is no alarming shortage of water supply in Manila unless there is a scheduled maintenance or natural calamity. Currently, the two leading water suppliers in the city are:
- Manila Water
Tel. No.: (02) 917-5900 local 1520
- Maynilad
Hotline: 1626
Emergencies
- Police, Fire and Ambulance: 117
- National Emergency Hotline: 911
- National Public Complaint Hotline: 8888
Embassies/Consulates
- Embassy of the United States of America
Chancery: 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Manila
Tel. No.: (02) 301-2000
- Embassy of the Republic of Palau
Chancery: Unit 101 Ground Floor, Marbella Condo II
2071 Roxas Blvd., Malate, Manila
Tel. No.: (02) 522-2849
- Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Chancery: 670 Pablo Ocampo St., Malate, Manila
Tel. No.: (02) 521-6843
Banking
Just a precaution, expats who are on short-term assignments in Manila are advised to keep a substantial amount of their money in their home country. However, when it comes to your routine banking activities and for emergency situations, it is best that you open a local bank account. Some of the basic documents that you need to present when opening an account in Manila are:
- Valid ID with Photo, preferably your Passport
- Proof of Residency (tenancy agreement or utility bill)
- Immigrant Certificate Registration (ICR)
- Your personal appearance
You also need to deposit a minimum amount in able to open a bank account. Deposit price varies depending on which bank and the type of account that you need. Two largest banks in Manila are:
Chamber of Commerce of the Philippine Islands
This organisation embarks on trade missions and form international partnerships to boost business in the Philippines. Additionally, it offers several support services and spearheads industry events for members.
Contact No: +632 5275610 to 11
Fax: +632 527-5609
Address: Chamber Building, No. 3 Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila 1002, Philippines
Email: chamber@chamberphilislands.ph, chamberphilislands@gmail.com
Know more about Manila, Philippines with our relocation guide for expatriates:
This relocation guide is provided by http://www.expatfinder.com, copyright © 2016 Interexpat Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved. Neither Interexpat nor S.A.S. ACS can be held liable for any errors or omissions, or any loss, damage that may occur as a result of this information. This information does not constitute advice.
