Muntinlupa City Guide

Local dishes like Adobo, Sinigang, and Lechon are popular. Alabang offers many international cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Some places and fast food chains offer late-night options, including 24/7 service.

Nightlife is relaxed compared to central Manila, with bars and lounges mostly in Alabang's commercial complexes like Alabang Town Center and Molito Lifestyle Center. There are live music venues and sports bars.

Alabang has a lively coffee culture with many specialty shops and local roasters alongside chains.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10% service charge is common at restaurants and covers tipping. For taxis, rounding up is usual.

SIM cards are sold at NAIA and malls from Globe and Smart. Registration using ID is required. eSIMs are available but vary by provider and device.

Street cleanliness varies; commercial and upscale areas are well maintained. Less developed zones may have sanitation issues.

Convenience stores and some fast food chains are open 24/7. Hospitals have 24/7 emergency rooms. Night clinics are rare.

Supermarkets like Rustan's, S&R, Landers, SM, Robinsons, and Puregold offer a range of products. Local wet markets sell fresh produce where bargaining is common. Most stores open 8 AM to 9 PM and operate on Sundays and holidays.

Cards are widely accepted in malls, restaurants, and supermarkets, but cash is still needed for small vendors and public transit.

ATMs are common in malls and banks like BDO, BPI, Metrobank, and Security Bank. Withdrawals from non-affiliated ATMs may charge PHP 10-15 fees.

Muntinlupa has notable local and international schools with American and British curricula. Popular schools include De La Salle Santiago Zobel and Paref Southridge. Admissions align with academic year from June to March.

Growing remote worker presence especially in Alabang. Nomad meetups are informal and found online. Several co-working spaces and friendly cafes act as hubs.

Good green spaces in Filinvest City and around Alabang, with parks and tree-lined streets.

Running paths are available in Filinvest City and Alabang Town Center. Safety is good; occasional pollution can affect air quality.

Gyms include international chains and fitness centers in residential condominiums.

Tennis courts are found in private clubs and sports complexes; bookings or memberships may be required.

Padel courts are rare but starting to appear in Metro Manila.

Yoga studios with various styles are mostly in Alabang, often with English-speaking instructors.

Martial arts like BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, and Taekwondo are available with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing available due to tropical climate.

Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on Laguna de Bay but options may be limited.

No surfing near Muntinlupa. Closest spots are 4-8 hours away like La Union or Baler.

No diving in the city, but Anilao in Batangas, 2-3 hours away, offers world-class dive sites.

Both private and public hospitals are available. Asian Hospital and Alabang Medical Center have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Mercury Drug and Watsons are widespread.

Do not drink tap water. Use bottled or filtered water instead.

There are many playgrounds in villages and malls, kid-friendly cafes, and readily available baby supplies. Attractions include indoor play areas and shopping centers with family facilities.

Metro Manila is fairly LGBTQ+ friendly. Muntinlupa has good acceptance in urban areas but no specific venues.

Generally pet-friendly with parks, malls, and pet supply stores. Veterinary services are available.