Planning a budget-friendly getaway? Here’s your complete guide to one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable travel destinations, The Philippines. If you’re seeking an affordable vacation spot, The Philippines should be on your radar! Check out our previous article on the top 5 cheapest places to visit for Malaysians in 2025 for the full list. With its crystal-clear beaches, vibrant cities, and delicious street food, the Philippines offers an incredible experience at a fraction of the cost of many other countries. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Manila, relaxing in Boracay, or enjoying the world-famous Filipino cuisine, this guide will help you plan a seamless visit to the Philippines in 2025.
Why Visit The Philippines in 2025?
Not only is the Philippines affordable for Malaysian travelers, but it also boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches, and amazing natural wonders. Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Manila, Cebu, or Davao are available for as low as RM300–RM500 round trip on budget airlines, making the Philippines an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers. To travel stress-free, Tune Protect Travel Insurance covers trip cancellations, lost luggage, and medical emergencies.
Cost of Traveling in The Philippines for Malaysians
Here’s a breakdown of the expected expenses for a trip to the Philippines in 2025:
✈️ Flight (round trip KL to the Philippines): RM500 – RM800
🏨 Accommodation (per night in budget hotels/hostels): RM50 – RM120
🍔 Food (street food & local restaurants per meal): RM6 – RM20
🚗 Transportation (local transport per trip): RM3 – RM15
🛍 Attractions & sightseeing (entry fees & tours per day): RM10 – RM70
🛡 Travel insurance with Tune Protect: RM36
Total estimated daily budget: RM120 – RM250 per day (excluding flights).
Total budget for 7 days: Approximately RM2950
Get Protected with Tune Protect!
Tune Protect is a leading digital insurer offering affordable and innovative insurance solutions designed for today’s travelers. As part of the AirAsia family, Tune Protect specializes in comprehensive travel coverage, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and more. With a strong presence across Asia and beyond, we ensure you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you’re protected from unexpected disruptions.
Whether you’re traveling for leisure, business, or adventure, Tune Protect has you covered at a budget-friendly price. Get insured before you go and enjoy a worry-free journey!
🏨 Where to Stay in The Philippines
Accommodation in the Philippines is affordable and caters to all budgets. Here are some options:
Budget Hotels & Hostels 💲
Mid-Range Hotels 💲💲
Luxury Hotels 💲💲💲
🚗 Getting Around The Philippines
Getting around the Philippines is easy and budget-friendly. Here are some transportation options:
Local Transport
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Jeepney: RM3 – RM8 per ride (ideal for short distances)
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Tricycles: RM5 – RM15 per ride
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Buses: RM10 – RM40 per trip (depending on distance)
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MRT (Manila): RM2 – RM10 per trip
Ride-Hailing Apps
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Grab & Angkas: Convenient and affordable, especially for short trips
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Private Drivers: RM150 – RM250 per day for full-day tours
🍔 What to Eat in The Philippines
Filipino food is rich in flavors, with influences from various cultures. Malaysians will enjoy the local dishes, which are delicious and inexpensive.
Must-Try Filipino Dishes:
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Adobo (Marinated Meat Stew) – RM8 – RM15
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Sinigang (Sour Soup) – RM10 – RM18
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Lechon (Roast Pig) – RM15 – RM30
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Pancit (Noodles) – RM6 – RM12
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Halo-Halo (Dessert) – RM6 – RM15
Street Food Prices:
🛍 Top Places to Visit in The Philippines
1. Intramuros (Manila)
RM50 entry fee
Explore Manila’s historic walled city, full of colonial architecture and museums.
2. Boracay Beach
Free entry (boat ride RM30)
Relax on white sand beaches and enjoy watersports in paradise.
3. Chocolate Hills (Bohol)
RM20 entry fee
Marvel at the iconic hills and enjoy the picturesque views.
4. Taal Volcano (Batangas)
RM40 entry fee
Take a boat ride to the volcano island and hike up for incredible views.
5. Banaue Rice Terraces
Free entry (travel costs RM50)
Visit the UNESCO-listed rice terraces in Ifugao.
🎪 Events You Shouldn’t Miss
💸 The Philippines Currency & Exchange Rate
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Exchange Rate: 1 MYR = 13.50 PHP
Exchanging currency in Malaysia offers better rates, but you can also withdraw pesos from ATMs in major cities. International ATM withdrawal fees may apply.
📱 SIM Cards & Connectivity
Stay connected while traveling by getting a local SIM card for your phone:
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Globe Traveller SIM – From RM20 for 3GB (valid for 7 days)
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Smart Prepaid SIM – From RM25 for 5GB (valid for 7 days)
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Sun Cellular Tourist SIM – From RM30 for 7GB (valid for 10 days)
These SIM cards can be bought at airports, convenience stores, or mobile shops across The Philippines.
🛡 The Importance of Travel Insurance
Traveling in The Philippines can be exciting and affordable, but it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. From flight delays to lost luggage and even medical emergencies, travel insurance ensures you’re covered. Activities like hiking and island hopping come with inherent risks, so it’s important to have protection.
A good travel insurance plan includes coverage for:
With good insurance like Tune Protect Travel Insurance, you can rest easy knowing you’re covered for these and more. Secure your travel insurance today to enjoy a worry-free trip!
💡 Final Tips for Malaysians Traveling to The Philippines
✅ Visa: Malaysians can enter the Philippines visa-free for 30 days.
✅ Best Time to Visit: December to May (dry season).
✅ Language: Filipino (but English is widely spoken in tourist areas).
✅ Packing Tips: Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a power adapter.
With its affordable travel options, natural beauty, and diverse cultural experiences, the Philippines is the perfect destination for Malaysians in 2025. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, The Philippines has something to offer every type of traveler.
Start planning your trip today, and don’t forget to get travel insurance with Tune Protect for a hassle-free experience!
