As remote work becomes the norm, many Filipinos are exploring digital nomad lifestyles outside Metro Manila.
After all, why work in an office when you have the whole Philippines to explore? With just a laptop and a stable internet connection, you can earn a living from anywhere!
The problem is, the Philippines is notorious for slow internet speeds. So you need to choose a place with a strong internet connection – as well as amazing tourist spots and activities.
We got you! Here are 7 best cities outside Metro Manila for remote work.
La Union
Average Internet Speed: 24 to 75 MBPS
Just a few hours away from Metro Manila, La Union is becoming a digital nomad hub for millennials and Gen Z’ers.
La Union is known for its surfing spots and vibrant nightlife. You can work in a lot of aesthetic cafes or by the beach and then enjoy the late-night social scene after.
You can also visit famed tourist spots like the Ma-Cho Temple, Baluarte Watch Tower, Tangadan Falls, and more.
Baguio City
Average Internet Speed: 37 to 86 MBPS
Drive just an hour away from La Union and you’ll arrive in Baguio, the summer capital of the Philippines.
Situated in the Cordillera mountains, Baguio’s cold weather can be soothing while working remotely.
Bring your jackets because the temperature can drop as low as 10 to 12 °C.
Popular tourist spots include Burnham Park, Minesview Park, Diplomat Hotel, Baguio Night Market, and more.
If you want to explore other natural wonders, you can drive a few hours to visit Benguet for the Atok flower farm. Adrenaline junkies can even climb Mt. Pulag during their off hours.
Cebu City
Average Internet Speed: 24 to 85 MBPS
Known as the Queen of the South, Cebu City is a perfect spot for remote workers.
The metropolis is pretty similar to Metro Manila. But you’ll love the mouth-watering food choices (Cebu Lechon!!) and the heritage sites in the city proper.
Also, there are a lot of beautiful nature spots and activities outside the Metro like canyoneering in Kawasan Falls, whale shark watching in Oslob, the sardine run at Moalboal, beaches of Bantayan Island, and more.
It’s truly a spot worth visiting for digital nomads.
El Nido Town
Average Internet Speed: 10 to 50 MBPS
If you’re looking for paradise, El Nido is a destination that should be on your list.
Known for its beautiful limestone cliffs and white sand beaches, El Nido is one of the best islands in the world. In fact, it was awarded the 2nd best island by Condé Nast Traveler.
We Filipinos are so privileged to be able to readily access the island in just a few hours by plane.
Marvel at nature’s beauty after your working hours by visiting El Nido.
Boracay
Average Internet Speed: 10 to 50 MBPS
If you wanna try island life, Boracay is another spot to explore as a digital nomad.
With its powdery white sands and turquoise waters, Boracay is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
You can work by the beach or in its beautiful cafés.
It is also home to a variety of activities, from snorkeling and scuba diving to shopping and dining.
Boracay is an ideal destination for digital nomads looking for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway.
Davao City
Average Internet Speed: 23 to 89 MBPS
Dubbed the “King City of the South”, Davao City is a great place to work-from-anywhere if you’re in Mindanao.
Davao has beautiful nature parks such as Eden Nature Park, Crocodile Park, and the Philippine Eagle Center.
Outside the city center, you can explore Samal Island and even trek Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines.
Siargao
Average Internet Speed: 5 to 40 MBPS
If you want to ride the waves, you can travel to Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines.
Digital nomads will find a lot of things to do in Siargao. You can learn how to surf or explore the beautiful beaches and pristine nature.
Work by the seashore or in artistic cafés.
Once you’re done with work for the day, you can explore Siargao’s natural wonders.
With all the examples listed above, you have different cities to explore while working online.
But if you don’t have an online job yet, you can sign up through Remote Staff for long-term remote working opportunities in different fields.
Sign up and start your journey as a digital nomad today!