The Philippines can enjoy free and unrestricted access to the internet, unlike many other countries in Asia. However, accessing Filipino content from abroad is still problematic without a Philippines IP address. Furthermore, being a popular tourist attraction, visitors are still at risk from cybercriminal activities.
Thankfully, a Philippines VPN (Virtual Private Network) can bestow a Filipino IP address that will enable you to watch your favorite content from anywhere. As long as you choose a reliable provider, access to ABS-CBN and other local services will always be available.
Best VPN for Philippines: shortlist
- The best VPN for Philippines9.7
- Philippines VPN with unlimited connections9.3
- Cheapest VPN for Philippines9.1
- VPN for streaming in the Philippines8.8
- Philippines VPN with largest server network8.4
How to install a VPN for Philippines
- Subscribe to a top-of-the-line VPN. Our favorite pick is NordVPN, currently available for 68%!
- Install the VPN and connect to any server in the Philippines
- Access your beloved Filipino content from abroad!
Why do you need a VPN for Philippines?
The Philippines is a country in Asia that doesn’t practice heavy censorship and online restrictions as opposed to Kazakhstan, where the internet has been shut down again on January 5. However, it isn’t the complete wild west either, as there is a degree of oversight over the internet to curb cybercrime. Plus, certain adult entertainment websites are blocked, and anything that could be considered libel is criminalized.
Unsurprisingly, geographical restrictions are present in the region as well. Therefore, accessing Filipino content from abroad requires an IP address from the country. That means you’ll need the assistance of a VPN to access ABS-CBN and similar websites.
The benefits of a VPN
A VPN works by redirecting your internet connection through a secured server in another location. While this is happening, your digital activities are protected with solid AES-256 encryption to ensure that no outsiders can monitor your activities. Plus, your real IP address is masked behind the server’s address, hiding your location and identity.
Additionally, VPN servers are typically scattered all across the globe. That means that you can change your location with a VPN and circumvent geo-blocks imposed by a wide range of online services. You can use this to access tv shows and movies from your home country while traveling. Alternatively, you can connect to a server in another country and watch content that isn’t typically available to you.
Lastly, the best VPN services offer additional features to ensure privacy and security from online trackers, malicious ads, and even malware. These threats are commonplace on poorly configured public networks that hackers can manipulate. And in a tourist hotspot like the Philippines, you’ll likely access a large number of questionable Wi-Fi hotspots. Therefore, it’s best to secure your connection with a high-quality VPN.
Best VPNs for Philippines: overview
When picking a VPN for the Philippines, it’s crucial to have servers in the country for optimal connectivity. Alternatively, it should have servers in the neighboring countries and superb technology under the hood to maximize connection speeds.
Furthermore, there are some essential features that any worthwhile VPN needs to have to protect your information 100%. Features such as a kill switch, DNS and IP leak protection, privacy-respecting jurisdiction, and a spotless history are paramount for any VPN service.
With these criteria in mind, we’ve selected five VPN providers that are worth trying out in the Philippines.
1. NordVPN – the best VPN for Philippines
Panama
5800
60
612 Mbit/s
- Unbeatable in terms of security and privacy
- NordLynx protocol for the best speeds without sacrificing security
- Great for streaming due to SmartPlay feature
- No router app
The best VPN for Philippines is NordVPN. Even though it lacks servers in the country, it compensates for that by having exceptional speed and servers in the neighboring regions.
NordVPN’s server network contains 5800+ bare-metal servers across 60+ countries. Additionally, most of those servers are utilizing RAM-only technology, guaranteeing personal data confidentiality in case of intrusions. Plus, the proprietary NordLynx is one of the quickest tunneling protocols in the VPN industry.
The VPN is also great at getting around geographical restrictions imposed by streaming services. NordVPN is a top choice when watching Netflix, HBO Max, BBC iPlayer, and many other platforms. Furthermore, the SmartPlay feature makes it easy to unblock content on practically any device that you own.
If you’re a fan of downloading large numbers of files using P2P technology, NordVPN has you covered. With P2P servers, your connection will be secure and optimized to maximize download speed. And with split tunneling and SOCKS5 proxies, you can further customize your experience and exclusively secure your torrent client.
With one NordVPN account, you can have six simultaneous connections. If that’s not enough, you can set up a VPN on your router and reap the benefits of geo-unblocking and privacy on an entire network by using up only one connection.
Grab a 7-day NordVPN trial on the Google Play Store to get started with the best VPN for Philippines. It’s completely free and can be used without any limitations. After that, subscriptions start at $3.49/month and are further secured with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.
2. Surfshark – Philippines VPN with unlimited connections
Netherlands
3200
100
593 Mbit/s
- Packed with solid security features
- Speedy connections
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Weak self-help support section
A close second for the title of “best VPN for Philippines” is Surfshark. With servers in the country and unlimited connections, this service is perfect for travelers and local families alike.
Firstly, Surfshark utilizes 3200 servers across 100 countries. This is one of a handful of VPN providers that has a 100% RAM-only server network. Additionally, it uses the lightning-fast WireGuard tunneling protocol – an essential component of top-notch performance.
Surfshark is also a reliable predator against pesky streaming service geographical restrictions. Not even Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, or Disney+ can escape the jaws of this VPN. Best of all, Smart DNS makes it easy to defeat geo-blocks on almost any device.
Surfshark also isn’t held back by any P2P limitations. You can use any server for torrenting, and the Whilelister feature allows you to customize which apps need exclusive VPN tunnel security. Plus, CleanWeb will keep you safe from dangerous ads and trackers while browsing.
The Surfshark One package includes additional protection against viruses, the ability to search the web completely anonymously, and personal data protection for full-fledged security.
To test out Surfshark, you can grab a 7-day free trial on the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. The trial doesn’t include Surfshark One features but otherwise is fully functional. And once the test is over, pricing starts at $2.30/month and is protected with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.
3. VyprVPN – the cheapest VPN for Philippines
Switzerland
700
64
60 Mbit/s
- No-logging policy
- Public wifi protection
- Unblocks Netflix and other platforms
- No anonymous payment
If frugality is an essential pillar of your life – VyprVPN is the service for you. It is exceptionally cheap, effective, and an excellent choice for keeping your data private in the Philippines.
VyprVPN owns 700+ servers across 64+ countries worldwide. By retaining complete control over the server network, the provider can guarantee data integrity and zero tampering from third parties. Furthermore, customers can alternate between WireGuard and the stealthy Chameleon tunneling protocols to suit their needs.
VyprVPN can also take down geo-blocks imposed by popular streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer. Furthermore, the VPN is also compatible with Android TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Roku, and Kodi.
Torrenting enthusiasts can also take advantage of VyprVPN as it does not impose any limitations on P2P traffic. Additionally, split tunneling is available for Windows and Android users. And confidentiality is guaranteed because the service is based in Switzerland and was audited by a third party.
It’s not surprising that VyprVPN only permits five simultaneous connections on a single subscription. Thankfully, you can install the VPN on a router and protect an entire household with a single device. Plus, this allows you to utilize the dedicated router app.
One drawback of VyprVPN is that it doesn’t offer any kind of free trial. However, that’s hardly an issue when there’s a 30-day money-back guarantee with each subscription. And besides, it’s hard to resist buying the service when pricing plans start at only $5.00/month.
For a deeper investigation of VyprVPN, read our VyprVPN review.
4. PrivateVPN – VPN for streaming in the Philippines
Sweden
200
63
252 Mbit/s
- Excellent security
- Perfect for streaming
- Great speeds
- macOS and iOS apps have fewer features
PrivateVPN is the ultimate choice for streaming fans in the Philippines. It has servers located in the country, excellent connectivity, and solid geo-unblocking capabilities.
PrivateVPN runs an efficient network of 200+ servers across 63+ countries. Furthermore, some of those servers are optimized for specific streaming platforms, ensuring peak performance for your favorite service. Additionally, the service uses the time-tested OpenVPN tunneling protocol for a balance between performance and security.
As one of the best VPNs for streaming, PrivateVPN can easily circumvent geo-blocks on HBO Max, Disney Plus, Hulu, and many more. Moreover, you can install it on Android TV, Amazon Fire OS devices, Roku, and Kodi. Alternatively, manual configuration is also an option.
One potential drawback is that the service is located in Sweden, a member of the Fourteen Eyes alliance. This is further compounded by the fact that a third party hasn’t audited its no-logs policy. However, this is hardly an issue if you only need a VPN for streaming.
This VPN is also a solid choice for torrenting as it comes equipped with port forwarding and SOCKS5 proxy features. You can also deal with restrictive networks thanks to the Stealth VPN and Shadowsocks options.
With one account, PrivateVPN allows you to connect six different devices simultaneously. If that’s not enough, there’s the option to set up a VPN on a router and receive the benefits of a VPN on an entire network with just one connection.
If you’re unsure whether PrivateVPN is the best choice, consider grabbing a 7-day free trial on the official website. After that, subscriptions start at $2.00/month and are protected with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.
5. PureVPN – Philippines VPN with largest server network
British Virgin Islands
6500
71
228 Mbit/s
- 10 simultaneous connections
- DD-WRT applet
- Good range of supported platforms
- Weak kill switch
With PureVPN, you’ll have access to the most diverse selection of content from across the globe. It has excellent geo-unblocking capabilities and a vast country variety.
For starters, PureVPN has 6500+ servers in 71+ countries worldwide. And for a personal corner on this network, customers can grab a dedicated IP and have exclusive access to a particular IP address. Meanwhile, above-average speeds are ensured with the classic OpenVPN tunneling protocol.
PureVPN is also a top-notch choice for streaming as it can circumvent geographical restrictions by Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, and other similar platforms. Additionally, it’s compatible with some of the most well-known streaming peripherals, such as Android TV, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and more.
When it comes to torrenting, PureVPN has a few flaws. Firstly, it only allows P2P traffic in countries where torrenting is legal. Furthermore, the port forwarding feature isn’t included in the default subscription and costs extra. Meanwhile, split tunneling is available from the get-go on Windows and Android devices to make up for it.
One PureVPN subscription allows you to connect a whopping ten different devices simultaneously. If that’s not satisfactory, it’s possible to utilize the DD-WRT applet and install the VPN on a router. That way, you can secure a whole network with one connection.
To give PureVPN a shot, you can snag a 7-day trial for $0.99. Alternatively, you can immediately opt for a long-term subscription, starting at $2.08/month and including a 31-day money-back guarantee safety net.
For a deeper investigation of PureVPN, read our PureVPN review.
The best aspect of each Philippines VPN
With five options, it might be challenging to pick the right choice. Thankfully, we’ve highlighted the most appealing features of each VPN for Philippines. That way, you can choose a service based on its most significant benefit.
NordVPN | The best VPN for Philippines |
Surfshark VPN | Philippines VPN with unlimited connections |
VyprVPN | Cheapest VPN for Philippines |
PrivateVPN | VPN for streaming in the Philippines |
PureVPN | Philippines VPN with largest server network |
What can I do with a VPN in Philippines?
A VPN has the power to:
- Unblock geo-blocked content
- Secure your online communications
- Bestow protection against hackers on public Wi-Fi
- Reduce lag while gaming online
- Improve prices while shopping online
Even though the Filipino government isn’t notorious for online censorship and surveillance, securing your online activities is still worthwhile. After all, ISPs (Internet Service Providers) can see your browsing habits and collect that information for their benefit. Digital data is worth quite a penny these days, so it’s best to ensure it doesn’t get misused without your consent. With a VPN enabled, your data is kept safe.
Additionally, one of the most common VPN use cases is unblocking geographically restricted content. This could mean changing your Netflix region and gaining access to more shows and movies. In extreme cases, it means reading news articles that the government would want to keep under wraps.
Moreover, since the Philippines are a popular tourist destination, scammers and cybercriminals are also active in the region. They typically target visitors on public networks, such as cafe Wi-Fi hotspots. With a VPN, you can secure your connection from any intrusions.
And while a VPN won’t make you better at online games, it can improve your gaming experience by stabilizing your connection and reducing latency. Sadly, this means that lag won’t be a valid excuse for your poor performance in-game.
Finally, you can use a VPN to get better prices while shopping online. Online retailers have different prices for countries across the world. With a VPN, you can connect to a country that receives the most significant price reductions and enjoy mind-blowing bargains. Just remember that your credit card information could expose your true location. That means you need to learn about anonymous payment methods, such as cryptocurrencies.
What should I look for in a VPN for Philippines?
A Philippines VPN is useless if it doesn’t fulfill the basic functionality of a typical VPN. That’s why you need to pay attention to these essential aspects when picking a service provider.
- Servers. Without an extensive server network, A VPN will have abysmal connectivity and minuscule country selection. Check the VPN provider’s server coverage on their website or by asking customer support.
- Privacy. What happens in the Philippines should stay there. Make sure that your VPN isn’t a snitch and is located in a privacy-respecting jurisdiction. Additionally, it should follow an audited no-logs policy.
- Speed. High-speed connections are crucial when streaming, torrenting, and gaming. Choose a VPN that offers fast tunneling protocols like WireGuard. Then verify these claims by checking on a VPN speed test.
- Security. Guarantee safety by using a service with reliable security features against online dangers, for example, malware. And check if the VPN was the victim of any breaches in the past.
- Price. Don’t overestimate the cost of a VPN and overpay for a service. When getting a long-term plan, a subscription shouldn’t cost more than $4 per month.
- Compatibility. You can utilize a VPN on a wide variety of devices. Make sure that your VPN will have dedicated apps for your favorite platforms.
- Customer support. No digital service is perfect. And if you’re not very tech-savvy, a 24/7 live chat option is essential for fixing potential issues.
Should I pick a free VPN for Philippines?
Although there’s no shortage of free VPN services to choose from, you should not trust the majority of them. That’s because free services are riddled with various disadvantages, such as:
- Limited bandwidth and browsing data
- Tiny server network
- Laughable security features
- Dusty technology that’s filled with age-old vulnerabilities
- Data collecting and selling potential
Free services put up various roadblocks that make using the software a frustrating experience. Firstly, bandwidths are kept low, so any streaming with the VPN enabled will be prone to stuttering. Plus, data caps are pretty standard, limiting the number of shows and movies you’ll be able to view per month.
Additionally, the offered server networks pale in comparison with premium VPNs. Therefore, your speed will suffer even further due to suboptimal connections.
And security is another avenue that suffers immensely. Not only are free VPNs lacking in essential features, but they are also known for collecting and selling user data to outweigh the costs of maintaining a free service.
Best free VPNs for Philippines
Luckily, it’s possible to find a few shining examples of reliable free VPN services. However, don’t be surprised if these don’t offer servers in the Philippines or Asia. Sometimes even the best premium services lack those.
- Atlas VPN. This VPN provider is blessed with no data caps and three server locations (New York, Los Angeles, The Netherlands) on the free plan. Additionally, it has a reliable kill switch and data breach monitoring on the mobile app.
- Proton VPN. A favored option among activists around the world, Proton VPN offers no data caps, a kill switch, and DNS leak protection to ensure privacy anywhere.
- Hide Me VPN. With a generous 10GB/month data cap, Hide Me VPN has a good selection of security features and tunneling protocols on the free plan.
Bottom line
A Philippines VPN is a multi-tool that’s handy in a wide range of situations. Whether you want to access your bank account on public Wi-Fi safely, watch your local TV station while traveling, or search for fresh content on Netflix – a proper VPN should always be available.
We outlined some critical aspects that you should pay attention to when choosing a VPN for yourself. Don’t make the mistake of subscribing to a subpar service and pick from the best available options.
What do you think is the best VPN for Philippines? Let us know by leaving a comment!
You may also like to read:
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FAQ
Can I use a free VPN in the Philippines?
While it’s possible to use a free VPN in the Philippines, barely any services offer servers in the country for optimal connections. Plus, free VPNs come with the risk of data collection and numerous other downsides. That’s why we recommend getting a free trial of a premium VPN to see what good service is all about.
Is it legal to use a VPN in the Philippines?
Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN in the Philippines. In fact, only a handful of countries restrict VPN use.
Do you need a VPN for torrenting in the Philippines?
Although the country doesn’t restrict internet access, using P2P technology to download copyrighted content is still illegal. Therefore, it’s paramount to use a VPN for torrenting.
VPNs charging as much as $13 per month is a bit too costly. And then it is even more disappointing when you find out that there was a data breach or your personal data was misused or leaked. NordVPN sure looks good, but one has to try it out to find out for sure.
I’ve been using NordVPN for the past year now and it’s really amazing ! It’s probably one of the best VPN I’ve ever tested ! I really love it !
I have been curious about understanding the use if internet in Philippines. I must confess that you have successfully offered answers to my search. Now I understand better what I will likely face in Philippines and how to confront it
CyberGhost is really Cool! that’s is clearly the best VPN service for philippines. it’s also really price friendly
I’m wondering if you have you reviewed HolaVPN on your site? Their website claims “Hola is free for most sites on the web. Some sites require the upgrade to Hola PLUS.” They also say that they do not collect, store, or sell your personal identifiable information. I’m curious to hear your opinion of them.
Yes, we have. I believe they are the worst rated VPN on our website. We wouldn’t recommend it to anyone.