Tipping in the Philippines | A Guide for Travelers

Different countries perceive tipping differently. Here in the Philippines, there is no hard and fast rule on how much customers should give their servers, taxi drivers, or hotel attendants. 

Since there is no standard amount set, knowing the accepted amount for various establishments will be helpful. 

This blog post will guide travelers on how tipping works in the Philippines.  

How to Tip in the Philippines 
Tipping is usually a sign of goodwill and shows appreciation for the excellent service or care provided during the meal or hotel stay. 

Service providers in the Philippines don’t demand a tip because many establishments, especially restaurants, already include a 10% service fee. If you want to give a tip, it is recommended that you do it discreetly. Hand the tip directly to your receiver and say thank you out loud at the same time. 

In certain scenarios like local markets or shops, where either bartering or a fixed price system prevails, adding a tip beyond the agreed-upon price can lead to misunderstandings. It's advisable to refrain from tipping in such situations.

Tipping customs in the Philippines vary across services, such as restaurants, hotels, taxis, tours, salons, and spas. But don’t worry, we’ll go through each of them below. 

 

Restaurants, cafes, bars

When dining at restaurants, it's important to review the bill and ascertain whether a service charge (SC) of 10% has already been included. If a service charge is already accounted for, there's generally no need to leave an additional tip. 

However, if no service charge is indicated on the bill, it's customary to leave around 10% of the total check as a tip. It's essential to hand any tips intended for tipping directly to your server. 

Hotel staff

In Philippine hotels, particularly those with higher ratings (4 stars and above) such as Manila Marriott Hotel, it's customary for staff to anticipate tips. For instance, you can give around ₱20 to bellhops, ₱20-50 per day to housekeepers (ensure to place it in an envelope for them), and ₱50 or more to the concierge if they provide exceptional service. 

While tipping might not be as expected in other hotels across the country, it remains a meaningful gesture to acknowledge the hard work and service of the staff. 

Taxi driver

In the Philippines, it's customary to tip taxi drivers approximately 10% of the total fare or around ₱20 - ₱50, depending on factors such as the distance traveled and the level of service the driver provides. 

If a taxi driver doesn't activate the meter and quotes a price before the journey begins, you're likely being charged an inflated fare, which may already include a tip. 

Tour guides

When booking a tour through your hotel or a large travel agency in the Philippines, it's customary to tip the tour guide with cash on the spot. Although you'll be paying the tour fee to the agency, giving the tip directly to the guide is essential. Overpaying the bill may not ensure the guide receives any portion.

A standard tip for tour guides ranges from 50 to 100 pesos per person, especially for larger groups. If you've hired an independent guide, you have the flexibility to negotiate the tip directly with them. You can include it in the bill, hand them a 100 peso bill after the tour, or slightly overpay for the tour. 

Just remember to provide the tip in cash, as guides in the Philippines typically don't receive tips charged to cards like in other countries. 

Salon attendants

For hairstylists, the usual tip in the Philippines is around 100 pesos, equivalent to about $2. While this may seem lower compared to tipping practices in other countries, it aligns with local customs.

Offering significantly higher tips, such as 500 pesos, might unintentionally cause discomfort, particularly if it exceeds the actual service cost. While generosity is appreciated, ensuring the gesture is received positively is essential.

Nail technicians typically receive lower tips than hairstylists, if any at all. Tipping between 50 and 100 pesos is acceptable, but exceeding this amount may be considered excessive. 

Spa attendants

At spas in the Philippines, service providers typically don't anticipate tips, but you're encouraged to leave additional funds if you're exceptionally pleased with the service and wish to express appreciation. Offering between 50 and 100 pesos or tipping 10% of your total bill is appropriate.

If you find the service unsatisfactory, you must not tip the providers.

Key Takeaways

Tipping practices in the Philippines vary across different service industries, and while not obligatory, tipping is often appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for excellent service. Understanding the appropriate tipping customs can enhance your travel experience and show appreciation to service providers.

When tipping in the Philippines, it's essential to be mindful of local customs and practices. Tipping discreetly and directly handing the gratuity to the recipient is recommended.