Pasig City sits in eastern Metro Manila and blends commercial areas, homes, and history. It feels less hectic than central business districts but still has many amenities and good connections. It works well for remote workers who want a practical base with local vibes.
Local foods like adobo, sinigang, and lechon are easy to find. International cuisine is available especially in Capitol Commons and Estancia Mall. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but need some searching. Some places and fast-food outlets stay open late or 24/7.
Nightlife is growing around Capitol Commons and C5 Road, with bars and live music venues. It's calmer than Makati or BGC scenes.
Coffee culture is vibrant with many local and international cafes, especially near Capitol Commons and main roads.
Tipping isn't required but appreciated. 5-10% tip in restaurants if no service charge. Taxi tips usually small extra or rounded fare. Service providers often get 10%.
SIM cards are available at airports, convenience stores, and telco branches. Globe and Smart offer the best coverage. ID registration is required. eSIMs are becoming more common but still limited.
Cleanliness varies by area; commercial zones are cleaner than some local streets. Waste pickup is regular.
Many 24-hour convenience stores, fast-food outlets, and pharmacies. Emergency hospital services operate 24/7.
Major supermarkets like SM, Robinsons, and Rustan's carry international goods. Wet markets offer fresh local produce. Supermarkets usually open 8 or 9 AM to 9 or 10 PM, including Sundays. Bargaining happens only in wet markets.
Cards are widely accepted in malls and big stores, but small shops and public transport usually need cash.
ATMs are common in malls, banks, and convenience stores. Withdrawal fees of about PHP 200-250 apply when using non-local cards.
Schools like Rizal High School and Pasig Catholic College serve locals. Nearby international schools include Reedley International School and British School Manila. English is common in international schools.
The nomad scene is small but growing. Online groups connect remote workers, and nomad-friendly cafes are on the rise.
Parks like Pasig City Rainforest Park offer shaded spots for walking and running. Green spaces are modest but accessible.
Running spots include PhilSports Complex and gated areas. Traffic and air can be issues on city roads.
Gyms include major chains and local options, mostly well-equipped.
Tennis courts exist in some private clubs and residential areas.
Padel is rare but slowly appearing in Metro Manila.
Several studios offer different yoga styles with mostly English-speaking instructors.
Dojo options include Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, BJJ, and Muay Thai. Many have English-speaking instructors.
No skiing in the Philippines.
Limited water sports in private resorts or clubs; rivers aren't suitable.
No surfing in Pasig. Closest surf spots are 5-7 hours away in La Union or Baler.
Pasig is not near dive sites. Popular diving is 2-4 hours away in Batangas or Mindoro.
Services are mostly good at private hospitals like The Medical City and public ones like Pasig City General Hospital. Pharmacies like Mercury Drug and Watsons are easy to find and often open late. Many staff speak English.
Tap water isn't safe to drink directly. Use bottled or filtered water instead.
Pasig has playgrounds in residential and mall areas, plus kid-friendly cafés. Attractions like Ark Avilon Zoo and Fun Ranch are popular with families.
Metro Manila is fairly accepting of LGBTQ+, with safe spaces and annual pride events. Legal protections are still limited.
Some places allow pets but many do not. Veterinary care and pet stores are common. Pet parks are limited.
Power is mostly reliable with occasional outages during storms. Many buildings use backup generators.
Mountains like Batulao and Pico de Loro are 2-3 hours' drive away for hiking.
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