Introduction to Adulting
Starting your independent life after college in the Philippines can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can navigate this exciting phase. This blog will cover essential aspects like finding a job, managing finances, and maintaining your health, tailored to the Philippine context. Whether you’re renting your first apartment or learning to cook, these tips will help you thrive.
Career and Finances
Finding a Job: Start by updating your resume and cover letter, focusing on skills relevant to the Philippine job market. Use popular job search platforms like JobStreet, Indeed, LinkedIn, and even X for networking. Attend job fairs and connect with alumni for opportunities.
Managing Money: Open a bank account with banks like Bank of the Philippine Islands or Metrobank, requiring a valid ID and proof of address. Create a budget to track expenses, save for emergencies, and understand taxes through the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
Living Independently
Housing: Look for apartments near your workplace, considering safety and amenities. Check the lease agreement carefully and negotiate terms if possible. Use platforms like Hoppler for rental listings.
Utilities and Cooking: Set up electricity, water, and internet by contacting providers like Meralco for electricity. Learn basic cooking skills, starting with simple Filipino dishes, and shop at local markets for budget-friendly meals.
Health and Well-being
Physical Health: Enroll in PhilHealth (PhilHealth) for public health insurance, and consider private options for additional coverage. Find a nearby clinic and be aware of tropical diseases like dengue, using mosquito repellent for prevention.
Mental Health: Manage stress with exercise and hobbies, and seek help through hotlines like the National Center for Mental Health if needed. Mental health is vital, especially with studies showing 8.9% of young adults experience moderate to severe depressive symptoms.
Social and Personal Growth
Building Connections: Join clubs or use X and Facebook groups to meet new people. Maintain family ties, a strong Filipino value, while building a professional network.
Dating and Balance: Approach dating with respect, using local apps like Coffee Meets Bagel. Balance work and life by setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care activities.
Legal and Practical Matters
Identification: Get essential IDs like the PhilID card (PhilSys), driver’s license, and TIN, each with specific application processes. Understand labor laws for employee rights and tenant rights for renting.
Technology: Choose reliable internet providers like PLDT or Globe, and protect personal information with strong passwords and antivirus software.
Comprehensive Guide to Adulting in the Philippines
This detailed guide is designed for young adults in the Philippines who have just graduated from college and are embarking on their independent journey. It covers every facet of adulting, from career beginnings to personal well-being, with a focus on local context and practical advice.
Career and Finances
Job Search Strategies
Finding a job is often the first step in adulting. The Philippine job market is competitive, with platforms like JobStreet, Indeed, LinkedIn, and even X being popular for job postings. Tailor your resume to highlight skills relevant to in-demand sectors like IT, healthcare, and customer service. Attend job fairs, especially those organized by universities, and leverage alumni networks for referrals. Networking on X and LinkedIn can open doors to opportunities not advertised publicly.
Managing Finances
Financial independence starts with opening a bank account. Banks like Bank of the Philippine Islands, Metrobank, and Citibank are popular among young adults. To open an account, you’ll need a valid ID (e.g., PhilID, driver’s license), proof of address, and an initial deposit, typically ranging from PHP 500 to PHP 5,000 depending on the bank. Budgeting is crucial; use the 50-30-20 rule (50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings) to manage expenses. Save for emergencies and understand taxes by registering for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) through the BIR. Consider digital banks like Maya for high-yield savings accounts.
| Bank Name | Initial Deposit (PHP) | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|
| Bank of the Philippine Islands | 500 | Valid ID, Proof of Address |
| Metrobank | 2,000 | Valid ID, Proof of Address, 1×1 Photo |
| Citibank | 5,000 | Valid ID, Proof of Address, TIN |
Living Independently
Housing
Renting an apartment is a significant step. Consider location for proximity to work and safety, with urban areas like Makati and Cebu being pricier. Use rental platforms like Hoppler or Facebook groups for listings. Before signing, inspect for damages, negotiate rent, and understand lease terms under the Rent Control Act (Republic Act 9653). Monthly rents vary: studios in Metro Manila can range from PHP 8,000 to PHP 20,000, depending on the area.
Setting Up Utilities
Utilities include electricity (e.g., Meralco), water (e.g., Maynilad), and internet (e.g., PLDT, Globe). Contact providers with your lease agreement, valid ID, and proof of address to set up services. Some apartments include utilities in rent, so check the lease. Internet plans start at PHP 999/month for 50 Mbps, while electricity costs depend on usage, averaging PHP 10/kWh.
Cooking and Eating
Learning to cook saves money and ensures nutrition. Start with simple Filipino dishes like adobo or sinigang, using affordable ingredients from local markets like Divisoria. Plan meals weekly to avoid waste, and cook in bulk for leftovers. Eating out can be budget-friendly at carinderias, costing PHP 50-100 per meal, compared to PHP 200+ at restaurants.
Health and Well-being
Physical Health
Health insurance is essential. Enroll in PhilHealth (PhilHealth) if employed or self-paying, covering inpatient and outpatient services. Private options like Maxicare or Medicard offer additional benefits for PHP 5,000-15,000 annually. Find a doctor via nearby clinics or hospitals, ensuring they accept your insurance. Be aware of tropical diseases like dengue; use mosquito repellent and drink boiled or bottled water to prevent illness.
Mental Health
Mental health is critical, with studies showing 8.9% of young Filipinos aged 15-24 experience moderate to severe depressive symptoms (ScienceDirect). Manage stress with exercise, meditation, or hobbies like reading. Seek help through hotlines like the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) or online platforms like BetterHelp. Family support is vital, given Filipino cultural values, but professional help is encouraged for severe issues.
Social and Personal Growth
Building a Social Network
Building connections outside college is key. Join clubs or volunteer groups via platforms like Meetup or X. Maintain family ties, a strong Filipino value, while making new friends through work or community events. Use X and Facebook groups to find like-minded individuals, enhancing your social circle.
Dating and Relationships
Dating apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Coffee Meets Bagel are popular in the Philippines. Approach relationships with respect, understanding consent, and ensuring safety, especially in online interactions. Balance dating with career goals, and communicate openly to build healthy relationships.
Balancing Work and Personal Life
Set boundaries by limiting work hours and prioritizing self-care, like weekly exercise or hobbies. Use time management tools like Google Calendar to balance work, social life, and personal growth. Filipino culture often emphasizes family time, so allocate weekends for family visits or gatherings.
Legal and Practical Matters
Identification Documents
Essential IDs include the PhilID card (PhilSys), driver’s license (LTO), professional license (PRC), and passport (DFA). Apply for PhilID with a PSA birth certificate and valid ID; it’s free and doesn’t expire. Get a TIN via BIR for tax purposes. These IDs are crucial for banking, employment, and travel.
| ID Type | Issuing Authority | Validity | Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhilID Card | PSA | No expiry | PSA birth certificate, valid ID |
| Driver’s License | LTO | 3 years (new) | Theoretical/practical exam, valid ID |
| Passport | DFA | 10 years (adult) | Online appointment, PSA birth certificate |
Basic Legal Knowledge
Understand traffic laws, like wearing helmets on motorcycles, via the LTO. Know labor laws, including minimum wage (PHP 500-600/day depending on region) and benefits, from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). As a tenant, know your rights under RA 9653, like protection from unreasonable rent increases.
Technology and Connectivity
Setting Up Utilities
Choose internet providers like PLDT or Globe, with plans starting at PHP 999/month for 50 Mbps. Compare phone plans from Smart or Globe, considering data and call rates. Set up services with proof of address and valid ID, ensuring coverage in your area.
Cybersecurity
Protect personal information with strong passwords (e.g., 12+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, symbols) and enable two-factor authentication. Use antivirus software like Avast or Kaspersky, and avoid clicking suspicious links on X or emails to prevent phishing.
Conclusion
Adulting in the Philippines is a journey of learning and growth. By following this guide, young adults can navigate financial management, housing, health, and social connections with confidence, embracing both modern practices and Filipino values for a fulfilling life.
