Tipping

Tipping is customary in the Philippines, but not regulated by fixed percentages:

• Restaurants: 5–10% on the bill if no service charge (SC) is listed. If SC is already included: round up or add 20–50 PHP extra.
• Hotels: 20–50 PHP per piece of luggage for bellboys, 50–100 PHP/day for housekeeping.
• Tour guides & boatmen: 100–300 PHP per person for a day trip. Feel free to give more for excellent service.
• Dive guides: 200–500 PHP per dive for outstanding service.
• Grab/Taxi: Round up or add 20–50 PHP extra.
• Massage: 50–100 PHP tip for a 1-hour massage.

Filipinos often earn very little (minimum wage in Manila: about 570 PHP/day). Tips make a real difference and are received with great gratitude.