Best Side Hustles in Manila for 2026
Oscar Garcia
AI-assistedFounder of Roavi
Visiting Manila?
Find a local friend who can help you explore safely, discover food spots, avoid tourist mistakes, and experience the city like a local.
Manila's tourist flow through NAIA never really stops, and between that steady traffic and the gap between local wages and dollar income, there are real opportunities here for extra money in 2026.
Here are the best side hustles in the capital — ranked by how quickly you can start and how well they pay.
1. Show Travelers the Real Manila
This is the standout, and one most Filipinos overlook. Tourists pass through Makati and BGC on their way to the islands, but rarely see the city the way locals do. As a Local Friend, you show visitors around — the carinderia you actually eat at, how to get around by jeepney or Grab without overpaying, which parts of the city are worth a detour before their flight south. You set your rate ($8–25/hour), keep everything, and get paid in dollars. Startup cost: zero. See how to make money as a Local Friend in Manila.
2. Online English Tutoring
The Philippines is already the world's leading source of online English tutors for students in Korea, Japan, and China. If you haven't tried this yet, platform demand is constant and pays reliably in dollars.
3. Freelance Through Upwork or Fiverr
Design, writing, virtual assistance, video editing, customer support — Filipino freelancers are already some of the most in-demand on these platforms globally. If you have any of these skills, this is a proven path.
4. Grab Delivery and Rideshare
Grab offers flexible hours delivering food or driving around Metro Manila. Lower pay than dollar-denominated work, but immediate and reliable.
5. Reselling on Shopee or Facebook Marketplace
Reselling popular goods through Shopee or Facebook Marketplace groups remains one of the most common Manila side hustles, with low barriers to entry.
Why "Local Friend" Beats the Rest
Most side hustles here pay in pesos. Hosting travelers pays in dollars, costs nothing to start, uses knowledge you already have, and fits around any schedule — including shifting BPO or call-center shifts. In a city with millions of visitors passing through every year, your local knowledge is genuinely valuable.
How to Start This Week
Create a free profile, set your rate, and travelers message you directly. No commission, no boss, no upfront cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best side hustles in Manila?
How can I earn US dollars while living in Manila?
Do I need money to start a side hustle in Manila?
Local Friends in Manila
Verified locals who can show you the real city.
Still have questions about this destination?
Ask locals and travelers on Roavi.
Create your free Roavi traveler profile
Save local friends, ask questions, and build your travel passport.
Start your Roavi Travel Passport
Save countries, cities, local friends, and travel plans in one place.