Considerations for Expats with Kids in the Philippines
Moving to the Philippines with kids means making big decisions — and school is at the top of the list. The good news? You’ve got options. Whether you’re looking for a local school or an international curriculum, this section will help you understand the choices and find the right fit for your child.
A Quick Look at the Philippine School System
The Philippines follows a K–12 system, just like many countries in the West. Here’s how it breaks down:
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Public schools are free and follow the national curriculum set by the Department of Education.
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Private schools offer a wider range of programs and often have better facilities.
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International schools cater to expat families and typically follow foreign curriculums like American, British, or Australian systems.
What to Consider When Choosing a School
Finding the right school means balancing a few key factors:
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Curriculum: Pick one that matches your child’s previous schooling or fits your future plans (like returning home for university).
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Language: Most schools use English, especially private and international ones. Public schools also teach in English, but some subjects might be in Filipino.
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Location: Look for a school close to home — traffic in major cities can make long commutes tough, especially for younger kids.
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Culture and Values: Explore the school’s vibe. Are they academic-focused? Big on the arts or sports? Make sure it matches your child’s interests and personality.
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Tuition Fees: Public schools are free, but private and international schools charge tuition. Costs can vary widely, so it’s worth comparing options.
Helpful Resources
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Check out the Department of Education for an overview of the system: https://www.deped.gov.ph
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Use school directories online to search by location or curriculum.
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Many schools offer tours or open houses — visiting in person can help you get a feel for the environment.
Final Thought
Every child is different, and the Philippines offers plenty of schooling options to match a wide range of needs. With a little research and some in-person visits, you’ll find a place where your child can thrive — both academically and personally — in your new home.
Keeping Healthy: A Guide to Healthcare in the Philippines for Expat Families
Your family’s health is a top priority, and settling into a new country means understanding how the healthcare system works. The good news? The Philippines offers solid medical care — and with the right approach, finding a great pediatrician for your child can be a smooth process.
How Healthcare Works in the Philippines
The healthcare system here includes both public and private options:
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Public hospitals are more affordable and government-subsidized, but they can have longer wait times and limited facilities.
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Private hospitals and clinics offer faster service, modern equipment, and access to a wide range of specialists — including pediatricians. These are the preferred choice for most expat families.
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Health insurance is strongly recommended. It helps cover everything from basic care to emergencies and gives you access to top-tier facilities without the stress of high out-of-pocket costs.
Finding the Right Pediatrician
Choosing a pediatrician is more than just finding someone qualified — it’s about finding someone you and your child trust. Here’s how to start:
1. Tap into the Community
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Expat groups (especially on Facebook or local forums) are a great place to get recommendations from parents who’ve been in your shoes.
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Word of mouth from coworkers, neighbors, or friends can also lead you to trusted pediatricians in your area.
2. Check Hospital Affiliations
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Look for pediatricians who work with well-known private hospitals, which often means better access to specialists and facilities if your child ever needs them.
3. Research Online
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Use online directories and review platforms to explore options nearby. Pay attention to experience, specializations (if your child has unique needs), and reviews from other parents.
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Visit the Philippine Pediatric Society for a verified list of licensed pediatricians: https://pps.org.ph
4. Schedule Meet-and-Greets
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Book initial consultations with a few doctors. It’s okay to shop around. This helps you assess:
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Their communication style
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How they interact with your child
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If they align with your parenting and medical preferences
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A Few Extra Tips
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Ask your insurance provider for an in-network list to simplify billing and coverage.
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Don’t hesitate to ask questions — this is your chance to ensure the best care for your child.
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Once you find a good pediatrician, build a relationship with them early. It makes future visits smoother and more comfortable for your family.
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Embracing the Rhythm: Cultural Adjustments for Expat Families in the Philippines
Moving to the Philippines brings more than just palm-lined beaches and delicious food—it offers a chance to experience a warm, community-centered culture. For expat families, adjusting to a new way of life can come with a few surprises, but also countless rewards. This guide will walk you through key cultural nuances so you can smoothly settle in and truly embrace the Filipino rhythm of life.
Understanding Social Dynamics
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“Pakikisama” (Getting Along): Harmony is a core value in Filipino culture. Getting along with neighbors, coworkers, and even strangers builds strong social bonds. A friendly smile or small gesture goes a long way.
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Polite, Indirect Communication: Filipinos tend to avoid confrontation and speak with subtlety. Bluntness can come across as rude, so aim for a gentle, respectful tone in conversations.
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The Power of “Yes”: Sometimes a “yes” simply means “I hear you,” not necessarily agreement. It’s often used to keep the peace or avoid conflict.
Embracing “Filipino Time”
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A More Relaxed Clock: Expect a more fluid sense of time. Meetings and social events may start later than planned. It’s not rudeness—it’s just part of the culture.
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Flexibility is Key: Adopting a go-with-the-flow attitude will help reduce frustration and let you enjoy the slower, more relaxed pace of island life.
Celebrating Traditions
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Family Comes First: Family is central to Filipino culture. Expect lots of gatherings, celebrations, and extended family involvement in daily life.
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Religious Roots: With Catholicism being the predominant religion, holidays like Christmas, Holy Week, and fiestas are widely observed and celebrated with community events and traditions.
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Joyful Celebrations: Filipinos love to celebrate! Dive into local fiestas, enjoy home-cooked specialties, and soak in the festive energy that brings communities together.
Learning the Language
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Start with the Basics: Learning simple Tagalog greetings and phrases shows respect and makes everyday interactions smoother. Even a few words can spark big smiles.
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Nonverbal Cues Matter: Watch body language and facial expressions—Filipino communication often relies on subtle cues that add depth to conversations.
Finding Your Place
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Connect with Fellow Expats: Joining expat groups or online communities can offer support, advice, and a sense of belonging.
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Engage Locally: Participate in local activities—whether it’s a neighborhood basketball game, a cooking class, or a barangay event. These are great ways to meet people and feel more at home
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