Currency exchange and rates

To exchange cash currency for Philippine Pesos, you can use banks, local financial services (e.g., Palawan, LDC, MLHuiller, Cebuana), or pawnshops. For cryptocurrency exchange, trusted partners are available within dedicated chat groups.

In Manila (NAIA) and Mall of Asia (MOA), currency exchange rates at major banks (like BDO) are competitive. Be aware that some exchange offices may refuse to accept older US dollar bills (pre-2006). It is advised to carry newer series notes to ensure easy exchange.

When arriving in the Philippines, particularly for transit through airports like Caticlan, Manila, or Shanghai, it is important to plan for currency exchange. Exchange services at airports may have limited operating hours, especially for night layovers. It is advisable to check the availability and rates of currency exchange booths in advance. For accessing Boracay, currency exchange for taxes or initial expenses should be factored into travel plans.

Currency exchange in the Philippines: cash (USD to PHP) is the primary method of payment. Exchange rates in Manila airport are generally competitive, whereas Cebu airport is considered unfavorable. UnionPay and other international cards are unreliable for direct payments and ATM withdrawals. It is recommended to carry cash in multiple secure locations. Online services like Kwikpay can sometimes be used to transfer funds to local e-wallets like GCash.

For converting Russian Rubles (RUB) to Philippine Pesos (PHP), several digital transfer services are available: Sberbank, VTB, and MTS Money. MTS Money is noted for potentially offering better exchange rates than Sberbank via its 'transfer to another country' function. Additionally, physical money changers are abundant in tourist areas like Boracay.

When traveling to the Philippines from Russia, it is generally recommended to exchange Russian Rubles (RUB) for US Dollars (USD) in Russia before your trip. Then, exchange USD for Philippine Pesos (PHP) upon arrival in the Philippines. **Reasons:** 1. **Limited Exchange of RUB:** Russian Rubles are not widely accepted or easily exchanged in the Philippines. You will find very few, if any, exchange booths or banks that will convert RUB directly to PHP. 2. **USD Acceptance:** US Dollars are widely accepted and can be exchanged at numerous authorized money changers, banks, and even some hotels throughout the Philippines. 3. **Better Exchange Rates:** Exchanging RUB to USD in Russia and then USD to PHP in the Philippines often yields a more favorable overall exchange rate compared to trying to find a direct RUB to PHP exchange or exchanging RUB to PHP in a third country. **Recommendation:** Obtain crisp, clean, and newer USD bills (preferably issued after 2009) in Russia. Avoid torn, old, or heavily marked bills, as they may be rejected by money changers in the Philippines.

Exchanging rubles for local currency in the Philippines, particularly in areas like El Nido, can be challenging. Banks may not offer direct exchange services for rubles. It's advisable to check bank websites for current exchange rates and look for exchange booths at airports or within bank branches. If you have Chinese Yuan, consider converting them to digital formats like WeChat or Alipay for easier exchange. Generally, withdrawing local currency using a UnionPay card is more cost-effective than carrying USD cash. ATM withdrawals of Philippine Pesos using Russian bank cards are approximately 7% less favorable than using US dollars.

Exchanging US dollars in Panglao, Philippines, can be difficult, with some establishments refusing even at low exchange rates. For reliable exchange services, it is recommended to visit Tagbilaran and look for Palawan Pawnshop branches.

For currency exchange in the Philippines, inquire about services that accept cash USD and can facilitate transfers from Russian bank cards. For motorcycle rental, typical engine sizes range from 125cc to 400cc. Ensure you have the appropriate license and understand local traffic laws and insurance requirements.

When exchanging older US dollar bills in Manila, expect a potentially lower exchange rate. One report indicates a rate of 53 PHP per USD for older bills at a specific exchange office on Del Pilar Street, Ermita, Manila. It's advisable to inquire about the exchange rate for older currencies, as they may not be accepted everywhere or at the prevailing market rate.

When traveling to the Philippines, it is advisable to carry US dollars in cash, as exchanging Russian rubles directly for Philippine Pesos is not widely available. While UnionPay cards may work for ATM withdrawals and sometimes for payments, acceptance is not universal, and there can be daily withdrawal limits or ATM cash shortages. Cash in USD is the most reliable option. Ensure you have enough cash, as reliance on card payments or ATM withdrawals can be inconsistent.

On May 29, 2026, the exchange rate in Manila airport was 61.15 PHP per USD. One old USD banknote was rejected. A Globe SIM card was purchased at the airport. Network performance for Globe SIM varies between iPhone (supporting 5G) and Android (potentially limited to 4G) devices in southern Cebu.

At Manila (MNL) and Cebu (CEB) airports, currency exchange kiosks are available 24/7. Rates are generally considered acceptable for immediate needs upon arrival, despite the typical airport premium.

To exchange Chinese Yuan in the Philippines, prioritize urban exchange offices over airport counters, as city rates are typically more favorable. Look for reputable exchange services like Palawan Express, which often offer better rates. Direct exchange at banks might be limited. Alternatively, convert Yuan to WeChat or Alipay for peer-to-peer digital transactions. These methods are generally more efficient than relying on traditional bank exchanges or unfavorable airport rates.

On Boracay, specifically on Sunset Road, the exchange rate at a currency exchange office was reported as 61.25 PHP to 1 unit of foreign currency. Older 100-denomination notes were exchanged at 61.15 PHP.