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For your holidays in Philippines and abroad

Travel insurance for the philippines.

Welcome to the enchanting archipelago of the Philippines, a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and warm hospitality. From the bustling streets of Manila to the stunning landscapes of Palawan, this diverse nation captivates travelers with its rich history, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery.  

As you embark on your journey to the Philippines, it's essential to make sure that your travel adventure is safeguarded. In this guide, we'll delve into the importance of securing travel insurance for the Philippines, so you can immerse yourself in the activities of this Southeast Asian gem with confidence.  

  • What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Philippines? 
  • How Does Travel Insurance for Philippines Work?
  • Do I need Travel Insurance for Philippines? 
  • How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for Philippines?

Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan

What types of medical coverage does axa travel protection plans offer.

  • Are There Any COVID-19 Restrictions for Travelers to Philippines?
  • Traveling with pre-existing Medical Conditions? 

What should your travel insurance cover for a trip to the Philippines?

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage. AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.  

  • Medical Coverage   – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
  • Trip Cancellation & Interruptions  – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
  • Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation   – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
  • Coverage for Personal Belongings  – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
  • Optional Cancel for Any Reason  – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Brazil.

How Does Travel Insurance for the Philippines Work?

Imagine you're exploring the beautiful islands of the Philippines, and suddenly a natural disaster, such as an earthquake, strikes the region. In this unfortunate situation, the "Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation" benefit from AXA Travel Protection becomes crucial. The policy may offer provisions for evacuating you to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriating you to your home country in the face of a serious crisis, ensuring your safety and well-being during unexpected events like natural disasters.

Here are more ways travelers can benefit from an AXA Travel Protection Plan:  

Medical Benefits: 

  • Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
  • Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
  • Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms. 

Baggage Benefits: 

  • Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
  • Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings. 

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

  • Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
  • COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
  • Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations. 

Post-Departure Travel Benefits

  • Trip Interruption: In case of an unexpected event, you could be eligible for reimbursement for the unused portion of your trip.
  • Missed Connection: If you miss a connecting flight due to delays or cancellations, this coverage may help with expenses like rebooking fees and accommodations.

Additional Optional Travel Benefits 

  • Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
  • Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
  • Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
  • Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for the Philippines?

While not obligatory, having travel insurance becomes crucial when exploring the Philippines. Situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area prone to earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic eruptions, the country presents potential risks that make obtaining suitable insurance coverages a necessity. It's vital to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances and make sure you have the proper protection in place during your visit.  

Here are more reasons why having travel insurance is recommended for trips to the Philippines:  

Medical Emergencies : Given the geographical location of the Philippines, having coverage for emergency medical expenses is important. In the event of unforeseen accidents or illnesses during your trip, this benefit offers coverage for hospital stays and doctor's fees, offering the confidence you need to explore the archipelago.  

Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without your essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.  

Trip Cancellation: With the unpredictability of weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances in the Philippines, having coverage for trip cancellation is important for all travelers. Whether it's due to sudden illness, injury, or unexpected events, this benefit offers reimbursement for canceled trips.  

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for the Philippines?

In general, travel insurance costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans:  

Total Trip cost: The total amount of non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc.

Age: L ike any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals.  

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to the United Kingdom will be offered three tiers of insurance:  Silver,   Gold  and  Platinum . Each offer varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs.

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the Silver,   Gold  and  Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Philippine hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers to consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.  

The Platinum Plan is your go-to choice if you're looking for extra coverage for the Philippine experience. "Cancel for Any Reason" offers greater flexibility for those unexpected twists in your travel plans and the "Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver)" offers assistance when you're out exploring the Philippines's stunning landscapes in a rental car.  

AXA covers three types of medical expenses:  

Emergency medical: Covers unforeseen situations like fractures, burns, sudden illnesses, and allergic reactions.  

Emergency evacuation and repatriation: Covers your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness.  

Non-medical emergency evacuation and repatriation: Offers assistance for evacuating a destination promptly due to events unrelated to health issues. These events may include occurrences like natural disasters or civil unrest.  

Are There Any COVID-19 Restrictions for Travelers to the Philippines?

The Philippine government has lifted the requirement for international travelers to show a vaccination certificate in order to enter the country. This means that anyone can now travel to the Philippines, regardless of whether they are vaccinated against COVID-19.  

Traveling with preexisting Medical Conditions? 

Traveling with preexisting medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip. Our Gold  and  Platinum Plan . offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions. The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons,

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition that's been hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plan with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60 day look back period. We're here to make sure you travel with ease, no matter your health situation.  

1.Can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight?

You can buy travel insurance even after your flight is booked.  

2.When should I buy Travel Insurance to the Philippines?

It's advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.) AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip. Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14-days of making your initial trip deposit.  

3.Do Americans need travel insurance in the Philippines?

While travel insurance is not mandatory for U.S. citizens traveling to the Philippines, it is strongly recommended. Travel insurance may offer sufficient coverage in the event of unforeseen travel or health emergencies.  

4.What is needed to visit the Philippines from the USA?

US citizens entering the Philippines must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their departure. Additionally, they must complete the eTravel Portal within 72 hours before or upon arrival and show a return ticket to the port of origin or the next destination.  

5.What happens if a tourist gets sick in the Philippines?

If you become sick in the Philippines, travelers with AXA Travel protection can contact the AXA Assistance hotline 855-327-1442 . Contact information is typically provided within the insurance documentation. Please read through your policy details and information.  

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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  • Global travel destinations
  • Philippines

Travel Insurance covering Covid-19 Philippines, Covid insurance for travel to Philippines

Compare and buy the best visitor travel insurance, buy visitor travel insurance.

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Visitor travel insurance coverage - Highlights

Health care expenses.

Covers hospital expenses for sickness or accidents.

Doctor visit

Insures Doctor visits for sudden injury or sickness.

Pharmacy drugs

Doctor prescribed eligible pharmacy drugs expenses.

Pre-existing conditions

Some plans insure acute onset of pre-existing conditions.

Medical evacuation

Medical evacuation expenses to nearest facility included.

Repat of remains

Repatriation of remains to home country included.

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International student health insurance coverage - highlights.

Covers doctor visits in case of sudden injury or sickness.

Sports Activities

Some plans cover high school sports activities.

Hospital medical expenses for sickness or accidents during coverage.

International students who need coverage for existing medical ailments.

Maternity Coverage

Some plans offer coverage for pregnancy, maternity and new born.

Repatriation of remains expenses to home country in case of death.

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Visitor travel insurance Pre-existing conditions coverage - Highlights

What does visitor travel insurance cover.

Some plans insure acute onset of pre-existing conditions coverage.

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Philippines Visitors Insurance

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Popular outbound destination among philippines travelers, travel insurance visa letter as required for travel to philippines.

All the travel insurance plans that are available from our compare engine provide a VISA LETTER which is the official document that you must show to be allowed to board the plane to go to Philippines (and upon arrival). While it is enough to have it available on your phone, a hard copy can be a good back up if you can arrange it. Access to the Philippines travel insurance visa letter varies depending on the exact company you purchase from. Regardless, if you have any issues with getting the required Philippines visa letter document, please call us as soon as possible so we can assist you!

Philippines Covid travel insurance requirements:

Is Covid travel insurance mandatory for Philippines? Yes - the Philippines Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) has made these requirements mandatory for international tourists from non-visa required countries to visit the Philippines:

  • Philippines travel insurance with coverage for Covid19 treatment with a minimum of $35,000 USD (approx P1.75 million) for the entire stay in the Philippines.
  • A negative RT-PCR covid test taken 48 hours before the departure from the country of origin.
  • A valid return ticket to port of origin or next port of destination no longer than 30 days after arrival in the Philippines.
  • Valid passport with at least six months validity from the time of arrival in the Philippines.

Travel insurance for travelers and new immigrants from Philippines visiting USA

Travel insurance for Filipinos going to the USA

Tourists on Visitors visa

Tourists on vacation, visiting family in the USA.

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 (877)-340-7910, factors that determine the cost of us travel insurance plans, age of the traveler.

The travel insurance price is directly proportional to the age of the traveler. The older the traveler and higher is the cost of the travel insurance.

Type of travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance which provide exhaustive coverage are more expensive than fixed benefit travel insurance.

Medical maximum coverage and deductible options

The price of travel health insurance is directly dependant on the maximum medical coverage and inversely dependant on the deductible of the plan chosen.

Region of coverage

Travel insurance depends on the coverage region. The cost for travel health insurance in some countries (USA …) is more expensive than others.

Duration of travel insurance

The longer the duration of visitor medical insurance required, the higher will be the cost.

Any add on benefits

Additional add-on benefits like adventure sports coverage … will increase the cost of coverage.

Travel insurance for acute onset of pre-existing conditions

Travel insurance for Asthma

Travel insurance for Arthritis

Travel insurance for Diabetes

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Best travel insurance with Covid coverage Philippines

International travel has slowly started again after the complete lockdown due to the Covid pandemic. However US citizens traveling to the Philippines are required to have travel insurance with Covid19 coverage included. Given the health risks and increased healthcare costs in light of the pandemic, it is in any case very important to have good Philippines Covid travel insurance coverage.

Travelers can use our Covid travel insurance Philippines compare tool to select the best coverage. Our list of travel insurance plans comparing best Philippines travel insurance for Covid19 also shows the coverage for Covid19 with Quarantine benefits. Based on your unique Philippines travel insurance requirements we display the available plans from top-rated US insurance providers. Make an informed decision while buying travel health insurance for the Philippines.

Philippine Citizens in UK, Travel Risks and the need for travel Insurance

The United Kingdom has a strong historical legacy in the Philippines with the rule of East India Company. There has been a good bilateral relation between the two countries and thousands of Philippines reside in England. According to the 2015 census from the National Statistics estimated that there were 132,000 Filipinos in the UK. Filipinos worked in various sectors like engineering, information technology, aviation, hospitality and healthcare. Filipino nurses are an essential and critical part of UK National Health Service. About 78% of the Filipino immigrants are employed and account for one of the biggest foreign national in London. Hundreds of student’s aspire to study in the UK for their leading universities with affordable and comfortable study experience.

"This large Philippine expatriate community often have family members visiting the UK from the Philippines. Traveling and living overseas away from home atmosphere often exposes many health perils. It is very essential to have good travel insurance coverage for protection from any unforeseen medical circumstances that you may have to go through while staying overseas. Health care in many western economies is expensive and in case of any medical emergency you may have to pay a huge medical bill and face a financial loss. Good visitor insurance will take care of all medical expenses that you incur from a medical emergency, particularly in the present situation of Covid19 pandemic.

Philippine Citizens in Dubai, Travel Risks and the need for travel Insurance

United Arab Emirates is the home to a large number of migrants and descendants from the Philippines. There are about 679,819 Filipinos in UAE and among them 450,000 live in Dubai. This is 21.3% forming the largest percentage of Filipino population in Dubai. Many migrant Filipino workers work in construction, as domestic helpers, tourism, retail, telecommunications and medical sectors. Dubai offers great workspace to their workers and healthcare is at its best.

This large Philippine expatriate community often have family members visiting Dubai, travelling frequently and staying overseas often increases the chances for an unforeseen medical emergency. In fact as a result of the Covid pandemic, the UAE is even insisting on travel medical insurance for visiting the country. In any event, it is very important for a traveller to purchase visitor insurance while travelling away from home especially during the times of Covid19. Visitors travel insurance will safeguard you from a financial loss in an event of a medical emergency. American visitor insurance offers travel health insurance for international travelers across the globe .It provides a platform where travelers can compare the most popular travel medical insurance plans and buy it online.

Philippine citizens in Australia, Travel Risks and the need for travel Insurance

Filipinos are the third largest Asian immigrant community in Australia. During 1980 the greatest Filipino immigration began and was at its peak in 1988. According to 2016 census there were about 304,015 Filipinos in Australia. The ancestral Filipino community is often referred as 'Filoz' a mix of Filipino and Aussie. The Filipino Australians born in the Philippine population is 61% Female and 39% Male.

This large Philippine expatriate community often have family members visiting Australia. Travelling overseas involves risks. Purchasing travel insurance has emerged as one of the essential document while travelling, its acts as a safety net against unforeseen medical and travel emergencies. Many countries have made it mandatory to have an travel insurance document to entry into their country. At American Visitor insurance visitors can get quotes from reputed US insurance companies which provide international travel insurance while outside one’s home country, travellers can compare the prices and different benefits available to make an informed decision.

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Visiting philippines and travel insurance for philippines.

Philippines is an amazing country comprising of over 7500 islands and is known for its rich biodiversity, beautiful beaches, scenic mountains, dense rainforests and beautiful spots for snorkeling, surfing and scuba diving. The rich history and culture of the Philippines and its relationship with the US also attracts many US tourists.

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Among its many popular tourists attractions are El Nido in Palawan, Siargao, Cebu, Davao, Boracay, Quezon City, Makati, Pasig and the capital Manila . The country attracts close to 6 million tourists annually with about a million coming from the United States and Canada.

Covid travel insurance USA to Philippines

US tourists are required to have Covid travel insurance for the Philippines. US citizens should buy good Covid19 travel medical insurance since their domestic US health insurance will not insure them outside US borders. Given the expense of a holiday in the Philippines, it is a good idea to buy Philippines travel insurance which covers both the health of the traveler as well as covers the expenses involved in the vacation.

Travel and health insurance Philippines claims processing in case of emergency

  • Navigate to the Claims information section on our website at Claims Information: Here you can download the claims form .
  • The ID Card that you receive after purchasing the plan will have all the details about your policy.
  • Call the toll-free number on the ID Card and the claims support will help you with the process
  • In case of direct billing which is done in case of emergency, the provider will contact the insurance company to verify your benefits and send the bill information directly to the company..
  • In some instances, the hospital might not comply with direct billing for some insurance companies in which case you submit the detailed payment information to the insurer along with a claims form (available for download from our website) for reimbursement.
  • We advise policyholders to visit hospitals within the provider network wherever possible as it reduces the co-insurance amount or even waives it completely.

Annual travel insurance for US citizens in the Philippines, Yearly travel insurance for US Expats

There are many expats who travel regularly from the US to the The Philippines. For US expats and regular international travelers, buying the Annual travel insurance works very well. The annual multi-trip insurance insures the traveler for several trips throughout the year as long as each trip is limited a fixed duration (usually 30, 45 or 60 days) depending on the multi-trip insurance plan. Please note that the Annual multi-trip travel insurance plans expect you to maintain continuous medical coverage in your home country.

Select the type of travel health insurance for visiting the Philippines...

Travel insurance for quarantine coverage.

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  • Travel insurance for US Citizens and US Residents traveling outside USA
  • Provides minimum coverage of $3,000 for potential or extended quarantine lodging expenses due to Covid19.
  • Provides guaranteed travel insurance for Covid19 for medical expenses of at least USD $50,000.
  • Covid-19 is covered as any other sickness
  • Safe Travels Voyager plan's trip delay benefit can be upgraded.
  • The base benefit is $3000 (which is $250 per day). Traveler’s can choose $4000 ($300 per day) or $7000 ($500 per day).
  • Provides minimum coverage of $2,000 for potential or extended quarantine lodging expenses due to Covid19.
  • Covid-19 is covered as any other sickness.
  • Covid Quarantine Benefit: Coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,000/$150 per person per day (6 hours or more) is included in the basic coverage.
  • Optional Quarantine Benefit Upgrade at additional price Trip Delay Max Upgrade - including Accommodations (6 Hours or more) $4000 ($300/day) or $7000 ($500 per day)
  • Travel insurance for Non US Citizens and Non US Residents traveling outside their home country
  • Travel insurance for US Citizens and US Residents
  • Provides minimum coverage of $1,000 for potential or extended quarantine lodging expenses due to Covid19.
  • Covid19 medical expenses are covered and treated the same as any other sickness
  • Offers coverage of $50,000 for emergency medical expenses
  • Offers comprehensive trip cancellation coverage

WorldTrips

  • Travel medical insurance coverage outside USA
  • Atlas insurance offers $50 per day for each day that travelers are quarantined abroad for a maximum of 10 days.
  • Coverage must be bought for a minimum of 30 days. Proof of quarantine mandated by physician needed.
  • Quarantine must be due to you testing positive for COVID-19/SARS-CoV2.

hth-worldwide

  • Travel insurance for US Citizens and US Residents traveling outside US
  • Trip cancellation up to $50,000
  • Trip interruption up to 200% of trip cost
  • $500,000 medical for sickness and injury/$1,000,000 medical transportation
  • Include $2000 in travel delay benefits for quarantine/lodging.

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Best travel insurance

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  • Travel medical insurance for US Citizens and US Residents traveling outside USA
  • Available up to 180 days
  • Offers emergency sickness coverage up to $500,000
  • Covid-19 covered as any other sickness

IMG

  • Coverage for travelers traveling outside their home country whose destination excludes the U.S. and its territories.
  • Deductible options from $0 to $2,500
  • Policy Maximum from $50,000 to $2,000,000
  • Renewable upto 24 continuous months
  • Covers COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 as any other Illness or Injury.
  • Patriot Platinum Insurance is best suited for travelers expecting first-class medical coverage; vacationing families; individuals up to $8 million.
  • Deductible options from $0 to $25,000
  • Policy Maximum from $1,000,000 to $8,000,000
  • USA travel medical insurance coverage outside USA for US citizens
  • Available up to 365 days
  • Offers maximum coverage up to $2,000,000
  • Offers insurance coverage for Covid expenses

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  • US travel health insurance for US citizens outside USA
  • Available up to 3 years (Elite plan)
  • Offers maximum coverage up to $1,000,000
  • Travel Medical Plus insurance offers coverage for expenses related to COVID-19
  • Short term fixed benefit cheap travel insurance USA for US citizens outside USA
  • Plan maximum options available up to $130,000 for medical expenses

Travel Insure Services

  • Offers coverage outside the US
  • Includes coverage for Covid19 as any other illness under the medical expense maximum.
  • Testing for Covid-19 will only be covered if deemed medically necessary by a physician.
  • The antibody test and prescreening test are not covered, as they are not medically necessary. For individuals age 65+, maximum plan coverage is $100,000.
  • Offers coverage for travelling outside your home country
  • It includes coverage for Covid-19 is covered as any other illness under the medical expense maximum.
  • Testing for Covid-19 will only be covered if deemed medically necessary by a physician. The antibody test and prescreening test are not covered, as they are not medically necessary. Maximum age for plan eligibility is 64.

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Expat insurance plans.

IMG

  • Ideal for US expatriates and for those global citizens living and working outside their home country.

IMG

  • Xplorer Premier Insurance provides unlimited annual and lifetime medical maximum.
  • It covers pre-existing conditions with creditable coverage

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Best trip cancellation insurance.

  • Trip Cancellation: Up to 100% of insured trip cost
  • US Residents on domestic and worldwide trips
  • Travel SE Covid Quarantine Benefit : Travel SE plan offers Coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,000/$125 per person per day is included in the basic coverage.
  • Travel LX Covid Quarantine Benefit : Travel LX plan offers Coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,500/$250 per person per day is included in the basic coverage.
  • Inexpensive coverage for trip cancellation & interruption
  • Travel Lite Covid Quarantine Benefit : Travel Lite plan offers Coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $500/$125 per person per day is included in the basic coverage.
  • Trip Cancellation: Up to 100% of Trip Cost Insured
  • Up to 100% of Trip Cost Insured
  • It covers Trip Cancellation coverage from $150 to $10,000.
  • Trip Cancellation: Trip Cost: Up to a Maximum of $30,000.
  • Maximum Trip Length 90 Days
  • Offered by Trawick International and is highly rated.
  • You can add a "Cancel for Any Reason" waiver onto the plan.
  • It can cover trips up to 90 days long.
  • Cancellation of policy must be purchased within 10 days of the initial trip deposit date.

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  • Trip Cancellation: Basic - $15,000 Max
  • Trip Cancellation: Plus - $100,000 Max
  • Trip Cancellation: Elite - $100,000 Max

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  • Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip cost up to $30,000
  • Provides coverage for U.S. residents travelling outside their home country
  • Trip Cancellation: 100% of trip cost up to $100,000

Cancel for any reason trip cancellation insurance

Cancel for any reason plans.

  • Cancel For Any Reason: 75% of non-refundable trip cost
  • Trip Cancellation: Tour cost to a maximum of $100,000
  • Cancel for Any Reason: Up to 75% of trip cost insured
  • Trip Cancellation: Up to 100% of Trip Cost
  • Cancel for Any Reason: 75% of non-refundable trip cost
  • Trip Cancellation: Up to a Maximum of $50,000. ($30,000 for travellers above 80 years)
  • Cancellation for Any Reason: 75% of the Insured Trip Cost within 21 days of trip deposit - some restrictions apply. Not available in NY or WA.

USA Senior Citizen travel insurance, USA seniors travel health insurance

Travel health insurance for older us travelers.

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  • The GlobeHopper Senior plan is available either as the GlobeHopper Single-Trip plan for single trips with coverage from 5 days to 365 days
  • The GlobeHopper Multi-trip plan which covers a period of 12 months with a maximum of 30 days for each overseas trip

Travel Insure Plans

  • It is an affordable international travel health insurance for US citizens.
  • It offers coverage for medical and evacuation expenses for short trips.
  • It is available up to 12 months
  • It is an renewable long term international travel health insurance for US citizens.
  • It offers coverage for medical and evacuation expenses.
  • It is available up to 12 months.

Best Annual travel insurance, Best yearly travel insurance

Annual travel plans.

  • Patriot Multi Trip is designed by IMG to cover travelers taking multiple trips in a year.
  • Covers non US Citizens travelling multiple times annually outside their home country
  • Offers coverage for covid19 illness.

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  • Trekker Essential Insurance offers maximum coverage of $50,000 for sickness and accidents.
  • Available for both US and Non US citizens up to 75 years
  • Maximum trip length is 30 or 45 days per trip
  • Available for US residents only up to age 81 years
  • Maximum trip length is 30 days per trip

Travel Insure

  • Voyager Annual (offered by USI Travel Insure) covers US citizens in and out of the US at least 100 miles away from home.
  • It does not cover trip cancellation but can be used for 90 days at a time within a year and is great for frequent travelers.

Review and compare the best Annual insurance.

Covid Quarantine insurance for US citizens

According to changes from June 2022, US Citizens who have traveled overseas are no longer required to get tested for COVID19 before traveling back to the US. This was earlier mandatory by the US government, and this requirement is currently under abeyance based on the trajectory of the pandemic. This COVID19 test was required both for unvaccinated and for vaccinated travelers. However, despite the Covid test not being compulsory, it is prudent for US citizens to buy travel insurance with Covid quarantine expenses included given the pandemic and different Covid sub-variants.

US travelers can either buy US Covid quarantine coverage trip insurance (includes coverage for cost of the trip), or Covid quarantine travel health insurance (insures only the health of the traveler and is cheaper than trip insurance).

Travel insurance coverage

Single Trip Travel Insurance

Single Trip vs MultiTrip insurance coverage

Single Trip vs MultiTrip Insurance

Philippine travel insurance, covid insurance for travel to philippines - faq's, is covid travel insurance mandatory for philippines.

Philippines Covid travel insurance requirements

Travel insurance for Philippines is recommended given the covid pandemic. This has made international travel to Philippines challenging raising uncertainties in the travel with increased chances of sickness and possible trip delays and trip cancellation. Covid travel insurance for Philippines will assure adequate travel insurance coverage for medical expenses of the traveler and even the non-refundable trip expenses depending on the travel insurance plan purchased. Following are the Philippines travel insurance plans satisfying Travel insurance to Philippines requirements.

For US Travelers

  • Safe Travels Outbound insurance: by Trawick International is available for US citizens with Covid coverage.
  • Travel SE Covid Quarantine insurance: Travel SE plan is a primary travel insurance that covers Covid quarantine hotels due to a covered Trip Delay $2,000/$125 per person per day is included in the basic coverage.
  • Travel LX Covid Quarantine insurance: Travel LX plan offers primary travel insurance coverage for Covid quarantine hotels due to a covered Trip Delay $2,500/$250 per person per day is included in the basic coverage.
  • Safe Travels Voyager Insurance: offers quarantine travel insurance coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,000/$150 per person per day (6 hours or more) is included in the basic coverage.
  • Safe Travels Explorer Insurance: offers Coverage for covid quarantine accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay $2,000/$150 per person per day (12 hours or more).
  • Trip Protector Insurance: Offers travel insurance with quarantine coverage for accommodations due to a covered Trip Delay up to a maximum - $2,000 ($200 /day )(6 hours).

For NON US Travelers

  • Safe Travels International insurance by Trawick International works well for Non-US citizens and covers Covid19 illness.
  • Atlas international insurance from WorldTrips will cover eligible medical expenses resulting from COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2.
  • Patriot International insurance from International Medical Group (IMG) will cover medical expenses resulting from COVID-19 as any other sickness.

Does Philippines travel insurance cover Covid19 illness?

There are some plans available for travel to the Philippines that cover Covid19 as a new illness. International travelers can compare best Covid travel insurance plans and buy it online. These plans are available for visitors from Philippines to the US, US citizens and US residents traveling abroad as well as non US travelers traveling outside their home country.

How much is travel insurance for Philippines? What is travel insurance Philippines price?

The cost for the Philippines travel insurance varies depending on the age of the traveler and the duration of coverage required. The older the traveler the higher is the cost. The longer the duration of Philippines travel insurance required, the greater will be the cost. Our Philippines travel insurance quote comparison facility lists the travel insurance that satisfies your requirements comparing them based on price and benefit.

Which is the best travel insurance for Philippines from USA?

Excellent question and we try hard to find the best answer to this question! Traveling to the Philippines where the healthcare is not as advanced as in the US, and where healthcare can vary from region to region, it is important to have excellent international travel insurance where travelers can be evacuated to Manila if needed.

If you are a traveler with concerns about existing medical conditions, then you will be looking at different plans with coverage for pre-existing conditions as opposed to a different traveler without any life-threatening pre-existing condition. We try hard to give international travelers all relevant information to help find the best Philippines travel insurance online. Our international travel insurance quote comparison tool helps travelers compare different travel health insurance plans based on price and coverages in an objective manner.

Is travel insurance mandatory for Philippines? Do I need travel insurance for Philippines?

If you are applying for the Philippines visa, the consular authorities can ask you to have adequate travel insurance for Philippines. Even if not for being issued a visa, covid insurance for travel to Philippines is mandatory and the fact that your domestic health insurance including US Medicare provides little coverage in Philippines, it is important for international travelers to buy Philippines travel health insurance.

Why American visitor insurance?

American Visitor Insurance works with reputed US travel insurance providers to give US and international travelers a wide range of travel insurance options. We have two decades experience in understanding the diverse needs of US citizens and international travelers and in offering appropriate travel insurance options to them. Our typical customers range from US citizens on vacation, international travelers visiting the US, international students, J visa holders, H1b Visa holders, US travelers going overseas, travelers to Schengen countries needing travel insurance for visa requirements, trip cancellation customers to insurance their trip expenses, travelers looking for Covid19 travel insurance with quarantine coverage as mandated by certain countries, corporate professionals and business travelers who travel internationally regularly as well as other diverse traveling groups with unique needs.

Our licensed customer support team provide service at all times helping travelers find the most appropriate travel insurance for their needs as well as guide them when using the insurance in the event of a medical or travel emergency. We also provide answers to all international travel insurance questions, reviews of different products, testimonials for customers as well as provide an user friendly travel insurance comparison tool where travelers can compare different products based on price as well as the coverage benefits. All of these tools help travelers make an informed decision while buying travel insurance.

How much does Philippines covid travel insurance cost?

The cost of Covid19 travel insurance for travel to Philippines with coverage for Covid19 medical expenses will depend on the following factors : (a) Age of the traveler (b) Length of Covid travel insurance Philippines required (c) The Philippines Covid19 travel insurance of $35,000 USD (approx P1.75 million) medical maximum coverage as mandated by the consulates. (d) The deductible and co-insurance on the Philippines Covid travel insurance plan (e) Any additional Covid insurance Philippines coverage like for acute onset of pre-existing conditions (f) Covid19 travel insurance Philippines costs vary based on the insurance provider and underwriting company.

International travel insurance Philippines, Medical travel insurance Philippines

Trip cancellation insurance.

Trip cancellation insurance insure trip cancellation related emergencies while in Philippines.

Travel medical insurance

Travel medical insurance for Philippines to cover accident and medical expenses.

Annual Travel insurance

Annual travel insurance for frequent travelers to and from Philippines.

Group insurance

Group travel insurance for Philippines covers five or more travelers on same itinerary.

Philippines - General Information  

Philippines - general information.

philippines Flag

Manila , Boracay, Cebu, Bohol, Puerto Princesa Subterrenean, Baguio, EL Nido Palawan, Puerto Princessa, Mactan.

  Filipino, English

Around 110 million

Philippine Peso

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Popular tourist destinations in Philippines

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Cebu Island

The island of Cebu, in the central Visayas region, is considered the port to some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Philippines.

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Coron Island

Coron Island is a tropical paradise, with electric blue and green water and popular for diving because of the numerous wrecks here.

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Pagsanjan Falls

Pagsanjan Falls also known as Cavinti Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the Philippines.

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Chocolate Hills

The UNESCO World Heritage site is a protected area that features more than 1,200 small mountains that emerged above the ground over several centuries.

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Visitor insurance resources

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Factors for travel insurance

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Important factors while deciding on the best travel insurance to Philippines.

Types of visitor insurance

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Claims Procedure

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Travel insurance claims process for getting medical care in a hospital.

Balance Scale

Trip insurance vs Travel health coverage vs Global medical insurance

Confused whether to buy trip, travel or global health insurance? Understand the differences!

International travel Insurance for Filipino residents

Us travel insurance for travelers from philippines - faq's, what is the best philippines travel insurance how do i find best travel insurance philippines.

This is a good question and American Visitor Insurance tries to answer for our customers. Given the different needs of different Filipino travelers visiting the US, there is no single policy that works best for everyone. Given the very high cost of US healthcare there will be specials concerns for travelers with a pre-existing medical condition, as some plans offer coverage for acute onset of a pre-existing condition. Other travelers from the Philippines will be less concerned about pre-existing condition coverage and will be looking for the cheapest travel insurance Philippines to USA online. We endeavor to give our customers as much information as possible so they can find the Philippines travel health insurance plan that works best for their needs. If you want some more guidance, please feel free to contact us and our licensed agents will help you!

Why is travel insurance for USA so expensive?

There is no denying that travel insurance to USA is unfortunately very expensive. The main reason for this is simply because the cost of healthcare in the USA is very expensive and the travel insurance USA costs are directly related to the healthcare costs. One more factor for some USA travel insurance plans to be very expensive is that there are specially designed travel insurance for USA plans available for older travelers, with higher medical coverage as well as some plans with coverage for pre-existing ailments.

Travel insurance for Philippines citizens

History of the philippines.

The Philippines is one of the largest exporters of trained nurses in the world with over 2.2 million Filipino workers overseas and 25% of them are in the healthcare sector caring for others. Many Filipino women have a bachelor’s degree in nursing. The Philippines having witnessed many revolts and wars has forced women to take a lead role in treating the wounded and diseased. In 1907 the Americans started the first nursing training facility in the Philippines in which Filipino students studied the same subjects as US nursing students.

The Philippines had a shortage of work and Filipinos aspired to work overseas which offered them attractive job markets with better living conditions. Many countries around the world faced a shortage of nurses and saw hiring Filipino Nurses was cost effective than training their own nurses locally. Saudi Arabia was a leading destination for Filipino Nurses after which European countries began sourcing their health care workers from the Philippines. Gradually Filipinos working as nurses spread across the globe.

The United States has about one-third of their nurses from the Philippines. About 150,000 Filipino nurses have migrated to the US for work since 1960. Between 1992 -2003 countries like Saudi Arabia with56.8 %, The United States with 13.14% and the United Kingdom with 12.25% have Filipino workers. Some of the other common countries where Filipino nurses have migrated are Libya, United Arab of Emirates, Ireland, Qatar, Brunei and Kuwait.

As more number of Filipino nurses have migrated overseas for a better livelihood, it has resulted in increased travel from the Philippines to the destination nations, both by the nurses as well as their family members. It is however of utmost importance that the frontline workers should also be prepared for all unforeseen circumstances that they may face while on work or travelling. The healthcare system in the US and many advanced countries are very expensive and while they offer the best service to their traveller’s, one should be prepared for the financial costs of all emergencies that may occur.

This is particularly true now in the Covid19 pandemic, with many new dangerous mutated strains being identified. It is therefore of paramount importance to buy appropriate travel health insurance while outside your home country. American Visitor Insurance provides some of the best visitors medical insurance plans with Covid19 coverage, these plans work well for Filipinos outside the Philippines. Please feel free to give us a call to get help from our licensed staff regarding proper travel health insurance for your needs.

Tourism in Philippines and the need for travel insurance

Philippines is a country with 7,641 islands, 81 provinces distributed between 17 regions. Renowned for its rich historical & Cultural heritage, beaches, water sports, heritage towns and monuments makes the country one of the most popular tourist destinations. Some of the popular destinations are Boracay, Siargao, Cebu, and Palawan. The Philippines have received many titles like traditional capital of the world's festivities, center of the Coral Triangle, and the capital of fun.

Tourism is one of the segments within the service sectors that plays an important part towards contributing to the economy of the country. Due to the growth of tourism the economy of the Philippines has witnessed many changes. Post the launch of marketing campaign "It’s more Fun in the Philippines" the country received 8,26,913 tourists. This was 15.24% more tourists contributing about 12.7% to the country’s GDP.

Traveling to these tourist destinations is very delightful; however one must be prepared for any medical & travel circumstances that may occur while travelling. At Americanvisitorinsurance we provide various visitor insurance coverage plans which fits the requirements of all travelers. American Visitor Insurance offers Covid19 coverage travel insurance plans, Immigrants health insurance and business travel insurance options. While traveling for business you can also insure yourself for leisure trip you may want to go to an interesting destination within the Philippines. For more details contact us or email and one of our licensed customer service agents will be happy to assist you.

Student insurance for Filipino students overseas

Studying abroad is an aspiration for many Filipino students! Studying in foreign countries often boosts confidence, improved language skills, exposure to different cultures and increased chance for better employment. According to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) the number of students from the Philippines studying overseas has doubled over the last 15 years. Popular international study destinations for Filipino students are the USA, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Canada and the United Kingdom.

The number of Filipino students studying abroad has increased from 5,087 students to 16.578 students in 2018 according to UNESCO Institute of Statistics – UIS. Australia is currently the most popular country of Filipino students with 4,432 students in 2015. The US had 3,000 students and other countries like the U.K, New Zealand and Canada along the list. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are now the new study destinations for Filipinos.

Studying abroad opens many opportunities for students undoubtedly; it also unlocks the window for the risks in a different country. Most overseas institutions have made student medical insurance mandatory while applying for the course. Buying international student medical insurance will act as a rescue in case of any medical emergency that you may face while you’re staying away from home.

H1b Visa and the need of medical insurance for Filipinos in the US

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S companies to appoint high –skilled temporary foreign workers to the US. For many years skilled workers have been immigrating to the US due to the bilateral business connections between the United States and Philippines. Seeking better economic opportunities and study facilities, Filipinos have become the 4th biggest immigrated community contributing hugely to the US economy.

In 2019 the H1B petitioners saw that the Trump's administration attempted to bring a change in the H1B visa and few other visa segments. However with the election of the 46th President Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. on January 20th, 2021 announced that the policies on H1B and H4 visa will be undisturbed. The visa caps which were placed by the Trump administration will be terminated. The USCIS on 4th February 2021 announced that there will be no change in the H1B visa process and the lottery electronic registration system will continue to be followed for the year 2022.

Relocating to the US to start new beginning is thrilling but one should look at all aspects that you may face while staying away from home. Healthcare in the US is very expensive and buying good visitors insurance is vital. International visitor insurance acts as savior in case of any unexpected medical emergency that you may face during your stay. American Visitor Insurance offers some of the good travel insurance covers from US insurance providers like Trawick international, International Medical Group (IMG), WorldTrips, Seven Corners, INF and Global Underwriters who can provide the best coverage for all your requirements.

Filipino Parents visiting USA

The United States and Philippines has long standing military, political and economic ties since the late 19th Century. According to the 2018 American Community Surveys (ACS) there were about 2,014,000 immigrants in the US. With many waves of immigration a large group of Filipinos residing in the US, the parents of these migrants will certainly visit their children and relatives.

Traveling, especially in old travelers requires planning and sometimes even a well-planned travel may end up in a nightmare. Travelling outside the Philippines to the US involves different weather conditions, long travel time, change of food and culture may cause anxiety that may lead to an unexpected medical emergency. It is very important to have good travel insurance for a stress free trip. American Visitor insurance offers some of the best insurance coverage plans for senior citizens from top most US insurance providers and enables you to get the coverage which suits you best. You can email or call our customer service number for further assistance and one of our licensed agents will be happy to assist you.

Travel Insurance from Philippines to the US

The large Filipino American community retains strong cultural ties with the Philippines. It is common to find parents, relatives and extended family members visiting the US from the Philippines. Purchasing proper visitors health insurance plan is essential while travelling outside the Philippines to the US.

Plans offered here ensure that customers have good coverage based on their individual needs. We have several plans that offer travel medical and trip cover for students, travelers of all ages, family members with different visa status. Our online visitors medical insurance quote comparison tool is easy to use as it allows you to compares quotes of different plans.

Travel insurance for travelers and new immigrants from Philippines visiting USA

Travel insurance for travelers and new immigrants from Philippines visiting USA

There is a large community of Philippines residents in the United States. Many Philippines citizens have taken US citizenship. In 2017 alone around 49 thousand Philippines citizens became naturalized US citizens. This vibrant community of US residents of Philippines origin is a strong bridge between the US and the Philippines, which retains strong ties with family members in both countries. As a consequence, there are is a lot of regular travel between the two countries. Given the very high cost of health care in the United States, it is very important for visitors to the US to have good travel health insurance while visiting the US.

Statistics on Philippine Immigrants in the US

In 1899 after the U.S annexation of the Philippines the first wave of Filipino immigrants began from the fruit and vegetable farms in the West Coast and some moved for education. World War II made way for migration of workers and their families to the US.

Alternatively the Filipino government made policies to facilitate workforce emigration which increased the Filipino immigrants from 105,000 to 501,000 in 1960 and 1980. This tripled to 1.4 million by 2000.

Philippine immigrants

Points to remember before buying Philippines travellers medical insurance for USA

  • Your residential status is essential to know if you are eligible for a particular plan.
  • Being aware of the cancellation and renewability policies of the plan so that you can make good use of it while you possess it.
  • Knowing if the plan offers pre-existing condition coverage if your visitor needs it.
  • Understanding the difference between fixed and comprehensive plans as benefits and the amount differs between these plans.
  • Customers should know if the policy has a limitation on the arrival time in the US or on the initial purchase duration in order to get the right plan.

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Senior citizens.

Senior citizens travel insurance from Philippines to USA.

Pre-existing coverage

Travel health insurance coverage for Philippines travelers to USA with Pre-existing conditions.

Student insurance

International student health insurance for Philippines students in USA.

US Immigrant health insurance mandatory for prospective Philippines immigrants to the US

At American Visitor insurance we offer immigrant health insurance plans which work well for prospective new US immigrants. After buying this immigrant medical insurance, customers will immediately receive the health insurance policy document by email. Customers can use this immigrant insurance document as proof of US health insurance while applying for the Immigrant visa. Given this rule as well as the very high cost of healthcare in the US, it is strongly recommended to buy medical insurance for new US immigrants.

New US immigrant insurance blogs and articles

New US immigrant insurance

US Immigrant insurance plans

Compare popular US immigrant insurance plans suitable for immigrants regardless whether permanently in the US or traveling out or waiting for Green Cards... Click here to read more »

Difference between visitors and immigrant Insurance

Find out the difference between US visitors insurance and new immigrant insurance. Compare and buy the best immigrant insurance for USA!... Click here to read more »

US Health insurance mandatory for new US immigrants

The US government has made it compulsory for new immigrants coming to the US to have proper US immigrant health insurance coverage ... Click here to read more »

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Travel tips for international travelers

Travel tips for international travelers – Safety, Comfort and Wellness.

Travel insurance Philippines

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I am an American in Cambodia traveling to Philippines on Feb 12. I was informed I need travel insurance that also covers COVID. Do you offer this? Can it be done online?

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Types of US travel medical insurance

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Fixed vs Comprehensive plans

Fixed benefit travel insurance.

A fixed benefit travel insurance plan is the cheapest travel insurance plan option. Fixed benefit travel insurance is cheap because it has a fixed limit of coverage for different medical benefits. Fixed benefit travel insurance plans work well in case of small ailments but can be inadequate in the event of a serious medical ailment or hospitalisation.

Comprehensive travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance plans provide exhaustive coverage for health expenses up to the policy medical maximum amount. In contrast to fixed benefit plans there are no limits for each benefit. Comprehensive insurance is more expensive when compared to fixed benefit plans but provides significantly better coverage in case of a medical emergency or hospitalisation.

Schengen visa insurance for Philippines residents visiting Europe

The European consulates that are part of the Schengen treaty (Spain, France, Italy, Germany, ....) insist on adequate travel medical insurance for Filipino nationals who are visiting any of the Schengen countries. Nationalities who require Schengen visa. We offer several travel insurance plans that satisfy Schengen visa consulate requirements:

Schengen visa insurance requirements

  • Medical coverage of at least 30,000 Euros travel insurance for schengen coverage (about $50,000 USD)
  • A repatriation benefit.
  • An emergency medical evacuation benefit.

Schengen visa insurance requirements

US medical insurance for visitors to global destinations

Us health insurance for visitors to usa.

  • International travel insurance for USA
  • US citizens residing outside US and visiting the US.
  • USA Green Card holders travel insurance who travel overseas often
  • New US immigrant insurance
  • International USA travel health insurance for tourists visiting the USA
  • Annual travel insurance for US business travelers
  • Expatriate health insurance for expats working and living in the United States
  • US non-immigrant work visa health insurance for H1B visa holders and H4 visa holders

American flag insurance

  • US international student health insurance for foreign students in USA (F1 visa / F2 visa holders)
  • J visa insurance for US Exchange scholars and their dependents (J1 visa insurance and J2 visa insurance)
  • Snowbird travel insurance for USA travelers from Canada and the UK (for warmer USA weather during winter)

US health insurance for visitors to Canada

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  • International travel insurance for Canada
  • International travel insurance for tourists visiting Canada
  • Annual travel insurance for US corporate travelers
  • US international student health insurance
  • Expatriate travel health insurance Expat insurance for US and other expatriates in Canada

US health insurance for visitors to Europe

  • International travel insurance for Europe
  • Schengen visa travel insurance as required by Schengen consulates
  • Travel insurance coverage to insure trip expenses
  • Long stay visa travel health insurance for Europe
  • Expat insurance for US and other international expatriates in Europe

Schengen visa flag

US health insurance for visitors to the Caribbean

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  • Travel insurance - Caribbean , Asia , Australia , Africa and South America
  • International travel insurance for US tourists and vacationers
  • US international student health insurance for US students abroad
  • Annual travel insurance for business and corporate travelers
  • US Expatriate insurance for expatriates living and working outside their home country

Travel medical insurance Philippines, Travel insurance to Philippines from USA links

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Travel Insurance from USA to Philippines FAQ

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Travel Insurance USA to Philippines Blog

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Fixed benefit or scheduled benefit plans are the most affordable international travel insurance plans.

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There are many cheap international insurance plans also known as visitor insurance plans.

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US visitors insurance providers

You can find reliable US insurance providers like International Medical Group(IMG), Seven Corners, WorldTrips, Global Underwriters, Travel Insure, GeoBlue, HTH Worldwide and INF insurance.

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Philippines Travel Insurance Requirements

Last updated: 03/07/2024

On May 30, 2022, the Philippines removed their rules requiring all travelers to buy travel insurance and submit a negative Covid-19 test upon entry into the country. With the rule change, fully vaccinated travelers do not need to meet these requirements.

However, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travelers may still need to adhere to various entry requirements before entering the country. These requirements are subject to change, so it’s recommended to check with the official government travel advisory before departing on your trip.

Squaremouth’s Philippines Travel Insurance Recommendations

Squaremouth recommends all travelers visiting the Philippines purchase a minimum of $50,000 in Emergency Medical coverage. This benefit can provide coverage for Covid-19, as well as other unforeseen illnesses and injuries that occur during the trip.

Squaremouth also recommends a policy with at least $100,000 in Medical Evacuation coverage, which can provide reimbursement for transportation costs to the nearest adequate medical facility in the event of an emergency. These medical recommendations are consistent with Squaremouth’s suggestions for all international travel.

Most travelers heading to the Philippines are specifically buying medical travel insurance. However, many travelers may also have non-refundable trip costs. In this case, Squaremouth recommends a comprehensive policy that includes the Trip Cancellation benefit.

Trip Cancellation can reimburse up to 100% of a traveler’s prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses in the event they have to cancel their trip for a covered reason. These reasons commonly include an unforeseen illness or injury, inclement weather, natural disaster, or death of an immediate family member. Travelers who contract Covid-19 before their trip and need to cancel can be covered by this benefit.

Travelers who buy this coverage can also receive other benefits, including Trip Interruption and Travel Delay, among others.

Trip Interruption can reimburse travelers who need to cut their trip short due to an unforeseen illness, injury, or death, or testing positive for Covid-19. Trip Interruption can reimburse a traveler between 100-200% of their unused, non-refundable trip costs, and can also reimburse travelers if they have expenses rebooking their flight home.

Travel Delay can reimburse travelers for daily expenses related to a delay post-departure. Most commonly, these delays are due to severe weather or a mechanical issue impacting their flight.

If a traveler cannot return home on time due to a positive Covid–19 test and required quarantine, the Travel Delay benefit can also cover those expenses. Policies with this coverage can typically be extended 5-10 days, and can cover a traveler’s meals and accommodations during their quarantine.

Click here to begin your search for Philippines Travel Insurance.

Philippines Travel Insurance Trends and Data

The Philippines is an Island near Malaysia and Vietnam famous for its stunning beaches, delicious food, and historical sites.

Destination Rank: 21

Percentage of Squaremouth Sales: 1.21%

Average Premium: $197.03

Average Trip Cost: $2,803.21

Helpful Resources

  • Philippine Covid-19 Information
  • Philippine Travel Information

Available Topic Experts for Media:

Squaremouth's destination information is free and available for use within your reporting. Please credit Squaremouth.com for any information used.

Squaremouth's topic experts are on hand to answer your questions. Contact a member of our team for media inquiries about Squaremouth Analytics or to schedule an interview.

Steven Benna, Lead Data Analyst: [email protected]

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Have questions about travel insurance coverage? Call us! 1-800-240-0369 Our Customer Service Team is available everyday from 8AM to 10PM ET.

Travel worry-free for as low as ₱136 and get covered up to ₱100,000 for any domestic destination!

Travel Insurance with optional Covid-19 Coverage now available!

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Travel Insurance Plan

Designed to protect you against unforeseen events while travelling., at a glance.

Travel Assistance Plan is designed to protect you against unforeseen events while travelling. It protects you against flight cancellation, medical emergency, emergency accommodations or vehicle accidents.

Eligibility and Coverage

●   Individuals and families from 0 to 80 years old may avail.

● Additional Covid Coverage for individuals and families ages 0-65 years old available for International Travel only.

● Coverage will start 24 hours before the date of departure and 24 hours after arrival date.

Calculate Your Premium

Total Premium:

Flight Assistance Benefit

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Flight Delay

covers the expenses for meals, tours and accommodation in the event the trip is delayed at least six(6) hours.

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Trip Cancellation

covers to pay the unused and non-refundable portion of travel, accommodation expenses and tours in case that the insured can no longer proceed with the trip due to unforeseen events indicated in the policy.

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Missed Connecting Flight

covers the reimbursement of the expenses incurred due to acts of nature or intervention by the Authorities up to the limit indicated in the policy during the trip.

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Baggage Delay

covers the expenses for the purchases of the basic clothing and toiletries in case of the delay of the luggage during the trip minimum of six(6) hours.

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Baggage Loss / Damage Airline and other items in safekeeping of a common carrier

covers for loss, stolen or damaged baggage of the insured incurred during the trip indicated in the plan.

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Loss of Travel Documents

covers the cost to replace the new Passport or documents as well as the accommodation expenses indicated in the policy.

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Trip Curtailment

covers the expenses of the unused portion of the tour or accommodation if the trip needs to be terminated due to the unavoidable events indicated in the policy.

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Aircraft Hijack

covers to pay the insured to the delay or interruption (minimum of 12 hours waiting period maximum 10 days as a result of aircraft hijacking.

Medical Assistance Benefit

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Hospital Income

covers to pay the assured of a fixed amount indicated in the plan for each day of confinement minimum of 18 hours.

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Medical and Hospitalization Expenses

including follow-up treatment covers the payment of hospital expenses in case of medical emergencies during the trip up to the limit indicated in the policy.

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Delivery of Medicines

covers the delivery of the medicines prescribed urgently by a doctor to the insured during the trip.

Emergency and Accidental Dental Expenses

covers the necessary emergency dental treatment of the insured during the trip.

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Repatriation of Mortal Remains

covers the necessary arrangements for the insured's transport or repatriation of mortal remains to the usual country of residence during the trip in case of death.

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Arrangement for Funeral Assistance

provides financial assistance for funeral expenses of the insured's family due to insured's death caused by accident up to the limit indicated in the policy.

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Medical Evacuation or Repatriation

covers to pay the transfer or repatriation of the insured to a properly equipped health center or to his/her usual place of residence.

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Compassionate Visit

covers the expenses for the transfer of a person chosen by the insured from the usual country of residence in the event that the insured is hospitalized as an in-patient for more than five(5) consecutive days as a result of injury or sickness during the period of the trip.

Other Benefits

Assistance of bail bond payment.

It covers to advance funds on behalf of the insured up to the policy limit.

Personal Liability

It covers the damages and expenses incurred by the insured for bodily injury and property to third parties.

Personal Accident and Disablement

It covers any accidental injuries or death suffered by the insured during the travel.

Child Guard

It covers the expenses for the economy round trip transfer of one immediate family member, having the same country of residence as the insured, to look after the minor during the trip should the insured be hospitalized for more than five (5) consecutive days or is deceased, and accompanied by a minor during the event and if no adult accompanies said minor.

Advance of Money

It covers the assistance to arrange to forward cash up to the limit indicated in the plan in the event of the robbery, loss or stolen of cash or credit cards and accidents.

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Philippines travel information & requirements

What does travel insurance for the philippines cover, what isn’t covered by travel insurance for the philippines, how much does travel insurance for the philippines cost, how to get the best philippines travel insurance, faq: philippines travel insurance, related topics.

Philippines Travel Insurance: Coverage Requirements & Costs

Leigh Morgan

  • You’re not required to purchase travel insurance to visit the Philippines, but you should purchase a policy anyway.
  • Our top picks for travel insurance for a trip to the Philippines come from Tin Leg, Seven Corners, and Generali Global Assistance.
  • It’s especially important to have travel medical insurance because US private insurance and Medicare will not work in the Philippines.
  • In addition to medical emergencies, travel insurance can also protect you against flight delays, trip interruptions, loss of luggage, and other unexpected events.
  • We recommend using an online comparison tool to find the right travel insurance to suit your needs for your trip to the Philippines. This way, you can compare multiple quotes and coverage options at once and get the best deal.

Whether you want to climb a volcano or dip your toes into the turquoise waters of Bacuit Bay, the Republic of the Philippines is the perfect place to get away from it all. Before you get caught up in sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming, it’s important to protect yourself against trip delays, cancellations, and other problems that could throw a wrench in your travel plans.

Although travel insurance isn’t legally required to visit the Philippines, it’s something you should purchase for your own peace of mind. We put together this guide to help you understand the benefits of Philippines travel insurance and show you why it’s essential to buy coverage before you leave for your trip.

Our top picks for the best philippines travel insurance

  • Tin Leg: Best Rated Travel Insurance
  • Seven Corners: Best Value for Medical Emergencies
  • Generali Global Assistance: Best Value Travel Insurance

Our top picks for travel insurance

Tin Leg

Seven Corners

Generali global assistance.

Here’s an overview of what you can expect when traveling to the Philippines

Do I need a visa to travel to the Philippines?

You don’t need a visa to travel to the Philippines unless you plan to stay there for more than 30 days.

Do I need a passport to visit the Philippines?

Yes. You must have a passport that’s valid for at least six months after your travel date

COVID-19 requirements

All travel restrictions related to COVID-19 have been lifted. You don’t have to present proof of vaccination,  test for COVID-19 , or quarantine yourself upon arrival in the Philippines.

Is travel insurance required to visit the Philippines?

Travel insurance isn’t legally required to visit the Philippines. However, we strongly recommend that you buy travel insurance before your trip. This type of insurance policy minimizes your losses in the event of a medical emergency or other covered event.

Travel insurance for the Philippines covers a wide range of circumstances.  

It’s important to understand that some travel insurance policies may be more comprehensive and cover more potential issues than others. The following is a breakdown of standard coverages, but you should always review a provider’s plan to ensure you’re comfortable with the coverage.

Trip cancellation insurance

When you’re excited about a trip, the last thing you want to do is cancel it. Unfortunately, you may have to cancel your trip to the Philippines due to circumstances outside your control. For example, if a close family member passes away a few days before you’re set to depart, you may have to cancel to attend the funeral.

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for the prepaid, nonrefundable portion of your trip. This includes hotel accommodations, flights, and prepaid bookings. To qualify for reimbursement, you must cancel the trip for a covered reason. Many companies allow you to cancel due to illness, job loss, or the death of your travel companion. 

If you’re concerned about trip cancellation, consider purchasing cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance . This type of coverage reimburses a significant portion of your prepaid expenses. 

Trip delay insurance

Trip delay insurance reimburses you for additional expenses associated with common carrier delays. In travel lingo, a common carrier is a company that offers transportation services to the public as part of its business model. Airlines, railroads, bus companies, and ferries are all examples of common carriers that may be covered by this type of travel insurance.

Once you purchase trip delay insurance, read the policy carefully. You won’t be reimbursed for additional expenses unless the delay lasts for a specific amount of time. For example, you probably won’t qualify for reimbursement due to a 30-minute delay, but you may qualify if your flight is delayed by six hours or more.

This type of coverage reimburses you only for necessary expenses. You can’t go out and buy a new wardrobe, but your insurance company may reimburse you for accommodations, transportation to and from your hotel, meals, toiletries, medication, and other personal items.

Trip interruption insurance

Like trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption coverage reimburses you for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses. The difference is that it only reimburses you if you start your trip and have to end it early for a covered reason. For example, if your travel companion has a heart attack while you’re in the Philippines, your travel insurance may reimburse you for the unused portion of your hotel stay.

Travel medical insurance

Even if you’ve never had any medical problems, there’s always a chance that you’ll develop one during your visit to the Philippines. Travel health insurance covers the cost of lab tests, X-rays, surgery, and other types of medical care, ensuring you don’t have to pay the whole bill yourself.

Medical evacuation insurance

Many types of travel insurance also include medical evacuation coverage , which pays to transport you to the nearest suitable medical facility in an emergency. Let’s say you’re climbing one of the many volcanoes in the Philippines when you fall and break several bones. If you’re in a remote area, the nearest adequate hospital maybe 50 miles away.

Baggage insurance

No one wants to arrive in the Philippines and discover that their luggage is missing or damaged. Unfortunately, it’s possible for a common carrier to lose one of your bags or damage it during the handling process. Thieves also target travelers, which may leave you without your favorite piece of jewelry or the dress you purchased just for your trip.

This type of travel insurance usually covers baggage loss and baggage delays. If you bring two suitcases to the airport and only get one upon your arrival to the Philippines, your travel insurance should reimburse you for the missing bag. Note that many travel insurance plans have per-item and per-person limits.

Baggage delay coverage reimburses you for certain expenses if your bag doesn’t arrive as scheduled. This type of coverage doesn’t kick in right away, so don’t assume that you can buy a new outfit just because your bag is an hour late. The purpose of baggage delay coverage is to reimburse you for the money you spend replacing certain items. For example, if you have to buy shampoo, bar soap, toothpaste, and a toothbrush, your travel insurance should reimburse you for these expenses.

Rental car coverage

Many types of travel insurance also cover rental car damage and theft. For example, if you accidentally hit the curb while trying to park on a busy street in the Philippines, your travel insurance may pay to repair the scratch. If you get into an accident, your travel insurance may cover the cost of repairs or reimburse the rental company for the fair market value of the car, whichever costs less.

Although travel insurance covers you in many situations, it doesn’t cover every possible emergency.

  • Pre-existing conditions:   In most cases, travel insurance doesn’t cover pre-existing health conditions. These are conditions that you have on or before the date you book your trip. For example, if you’ve had chronic kidney disease for 20 years, CKD is a pre-existing condition. This type of coverage won’t pay your medical expenses if you experience a complication of kidney disease while traveling in the Philippines.
  • Risky activities:   If you plan to climb volcanoes, go skydiving or engage in other risky activities, check with your insurance agent first. Many plans exclude coverage for adventure sports and other high-risk activities, so you may need to purchase extra insurance if you’re a bit of a daredevil.
  • Known storms:   Travel insurance generally doesn’t cover you if you experience an emergency due to a known storm. For example, if there’s a storm brewing in the South China Sea, your insurer may deny your claim if you choose to travel to the Philippines anyway.
  • Foreseeable events:   Your travel insurance may not cover you if you experience a loss due to a foreseeable event. This is an event that a reasonable person could have predicted.

For basic medical coverage for your trip to the Philippines, travel insurance can cost as little as $1 per day . For a more comprehensive policy that includes trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage, you can expect to pay around $9 to $11 per day for insurance.

To give you a better understanding of how much travel insurance for the Philippines cost, we got sample quotes from some popular travel insurance providers.

We used these travel details for our quotes:

  • Age: 35 years old
  • Destination: Philippines
  • Trip Length: 7 days
  • Trip cost: $2,000

This first table shows four quotes for basic travel insurance coverage.

Example Where Plan Doesn’t Reimburse the Full Trip Cost

To have financial protection in case your trip is canceled or interrupted, you’ll need more comprehensive coverage. For this next table, we got four quotes that show the cost of coverage which includes trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance.

Example Where Plan Does Reimburse the Full Trip Cost

Several factors affect the cost of travel insurance:

  • Age:   The younger you are, the less it costs to buy coverage for your upcoming trip. This is because older people have a higher risk of accidents and illnesses.
  • Destination:   Some destinations are riskier than others. Insurers charge more to provide coverage for trips to those destinations.
  • Trip price:   The more your trip costs, the more coverage you need. It costs extra to extend your coverage.

To get the best travel insurance for your trip to the Philippines, follow these tips:

  • Consider what type of coverage you need: Evaluate the risks you face when traveling. If you plan to do any adventure activities, you should consider a plan that includes extra coverage.
  • Check to see what coverage you get with your credit card: If you book your trip with your credit card , you may already receive some types of coverage, such as trip cancellation and interruption. Once you know what you already have, you can then decide what additional types of protection you want.
  • Compare plans and providers: Request multiple quotes and take the time to compare them. Make sure you understand each plan and what it requires for reimbursement. To easily compare coverage options, try using our online comparison tool .
  • Purchase a policy early: If you purchase your travel insurance soon after making your initial trip deposit, you may be able to get a better deal.

Do I need travel insurance to visit the Philippines?

Although you’re not required to purchase Philippines travel insurance, we strongly recommend that you purchase this type of coverage. The right insurance plan can prevent you from losing thousands of dollars.

What does travel insurance cover in the Philippines?

It depends on what type of policy you buy. The most basic insurance plans usually cover medical expenses, medical evacuation, unexpected delays, trip cancellations, and trip interruptions. You can also buy travel insurance that covers your baggage and your rental vehicle.

How much is Philippines travel insurance?

Philippines travel insurance can cost as little as $1 per day for the most basic policy. For a more comprehensive plan, you can expect to pay around $9 to $11 per day.

Can I use my U.S. insurance in the Philippines?

U.S. health insurance doesn’t cover medical expenses incurred in the Philippines. This includes Medicare, Medicaid, military insurance plans, and private health insurance.

Can U.S. citizens get free health care in the Philippines?

The Philippines has a public health system, but non-citizens aren’t eligible for free health care. Therefore, it’s important to purchase health insurance designed to cover medical emergencies in other countries. If you don’t have travel health insurance, you may end up owing thousands of dollars in medical expenses.

Leigh Morgan

Leigh Morgan is a seasoned personal finance contributor with over 15 years of experience writing on a diverse range of professional legal and financial topics. She specializes in subjects like navigating the complexities of insurance, savings, zero-based budgeting and emergency fund development.

In the last 5 years, she’s authored over 300 articles for credit unions, digital banks, and financial professionals. Morgan is also the author of “77 Tips for Preventing Elder Financial Abuse,” a book focused on helping caregivers protect the elderly from financial scams.

In addition to her writing skills, she brings real-world financial acumen thanks to her previous experience managing rental properties as part of a $34 million real estate portfolio.

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Compare And Find The Best Travel Insurance

Below are travel insurances available in the Philippines, both for domestic and international travel. To make it quick and easier for you, we have collected all the relevant information that will assist in your decision making. By clicking the apply button, you can start the application process and be secured for your future vacations.

We found 15 travel insurance(s) for you!

Etiqa Travel Insurance Plan

Personal Accident

AIG Travel Guard Standard Protection

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Travel insurance, also called travelers insurance, aims to spread your restorative costs while you are travelling. There are both local and worldwide travel insurances available that would cater to your specific requirement. Verify and consider the scope of your coverage when planning for your travel arrangements in the future before contracting the insurance provider. Aside from the scope of most restorative costs, insurance companies additionally offer many related remuneration for flight delays, loss of items and other unfavorable circumstances.

Why Should I Get Travel Insurance?

Apart from its cost, travel insurance can do so much more for you. Imagine that you are an adventurous, 30 something individual who plans to visit exotic places while at the same time, doing extreme sports. In this example, it is logical to get travel insurance because of the activities you’re planning to do are riskier than most. Definitely, lesser risk is involved for a 50 year old who plans to go to a friend’s wedding in a very safe location, but then again you’ll never know.

Travel Insurance In The Philippines

A travel insurance is designed to cut back risks and value borne with sudden events throughout travel. A number of these sudden events will be baggage lost, personal accidents, delayed flights, something that involves the travel provider’s incapacity.  Travel insurance in the Philippines  is not usually bought by Filipino travellers because it is connoted as something not essential for travelling, but what most Filipinos aren't aware of is the fact that there are chances, in fact, big chances of most airlines having the incapacity to perform as they're expected to.

Who Can Purchase Travel Insurance?

You can get insurance for yourself as well as your immediate family members, as young as six (6) weeks and up to 80 years of age. Choose between insurance coverage for domestic or international flights, or for single or unlimited trips in a year (must not exceed from 90 to 180 consecutive days) if you’re a frequent flyer. Be reminded, however, that pre-existing conditions are not covered by travel insurance policies.

What Kind Of Travel Insurance Do I Need?

The sort of travel insurance you need to rely on upon your future travel plans, whether they are for travel or for business. You can either decide to get a yearly arrangement or for a solitary outing. Likewise, we propose checking your needs based on the frequency and also the locations that you plan to visit.

What Is The Coverage Of My Travel Insurance?

It really depends on the insurance that you plan to take; you can view our comparison table for more information on this. One determinant of how much coverage you need is dependent on the places you travel and how much baggage and items costs. Usually you are going to shell out a little cash for travel insurance and it gets cheaper if you get more days covered with the plan. Every plan is unique and has its own exceptions, although benefits are almost the same and the limits for each of these do not differ from each other, it is still best to check the fine print.

What Is The Travel Insurance Claiming Process?

What you have to do first is contact your travel insurance company as soon as possible to clear any possible problems you may encounter. Ask relevant questions you find fit in the situation. At the end of this, the only way to get compensated is through a submission of a form that states you claiming what the travel insurance company owes you. This is provided that you have the supporting documents and is within the scope of claiming.

Can I Cancel My Travel Insurance Policy?

If you had purchased a travel insurance policy and your plans suddenly changed, you could file for refund as long as the policy is still within its cooling off period. Check with your travel insurance agent about the cooling off period of your plan. It may vary depending on the policy contract, but generally it is within the 14-day period.

Will Travel Insurance Protect Me When I Work Overseas?

Travel insurance plans are offered to leisure travellers and not to overseas employees. It protects passengers during flight cancellation, lost baggage, delayed flights or emergency medical situation related to travel. If you plan to work abroad, you may need a different type of insurance that will provide a more comprehensive protection against work-related accidents.

Can I Extend The Term Of My Travel Insurance Plan?

If you need to extend your travel for reasons other than typhoons, volcanic eruptions, or flood; travel insurance policy is good only within a specified term. You may need to purchase another plan to cover your extended stay.

Still wondering on the pros and cons of travel insurance? Determine if the need outweighs the cost and to further assist you on this issue, you can read our article on  determining whether getting a travel insurance is worth it .

Compare travel insurance

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Philippines: Safety and Travel Insurance

Visiting the Philippines: Aerial view of islands in the Philippines

Traveling to the Philippines: Safety and Travel Insurance Advice

Tourism is hugely important in the Philippines – and impactful. More than 10% of the country’s GDP comes from the tourism sector. There are 7,641 islands spread out over 82 provinces in 17 regions. Some of the country’s top attractions include biodiversity, diving, sailing, and rainforests. The Philippines is also hugely important as a cultural destination. For instance, it’s home to 6 UNESCO world heritage sites, 3 UNESCO intangible cultural heritage practices, 1 UNESCO creative city designation, and 8 ASEAN Heritage Parks, among other honors. It’s no wonder that more than 4 million people visit the Philippines each year! If you’re planning on traveling to the Philippines , this is the critical health, travel, insurance, and safety advice you need.

Quality of Filipino Health Care and Travel Insurance Options

The state of health care in the Philippines can vary drastically depending on what part of the country you’re in. Hospital standards are excellent in Manila and other large cities. Most doctors, nurses, and support staff speak English. You can expect top diagnostic equipment. As well, the facilities are clean and relatively comfortable, although without a lot of privacy.

However, the situation is much different in rural areas. At best, healthcare facilities can be described as adequate. At worst, they’re non-existent or a little more than a tiny clinic with one or two nurses.

The standards at private healthcare facilities are far superior to public ones. Travelers can expect shorter wait times and private, more comfortable facilities. The superior care you receive here is one excellent reason to carry comprehensive travel medical insurance. A second good reason is that you’re covered for medical evacuation. Due to the remote nature of the Philippines’ islands, travelers who need emergency care are often evacuated to Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

Travel Insurance for Visitors to the Philippines

We recommend the following plans for trips to the Philippines. Both plans provide extensive coverage and options to customize for your needs.

WorldTrips Atlas travel insurance

  • Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
  • Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
  • Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
  • 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance

Seven Corners Insurance

Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance

  • Comprehensive medical coverage with benefits up to $5,000,000.
  • Adventure activities coverage available.
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation protection up to $500,000.

Best Trip Cancellation Insurance for US Citizens

Trip cancellation insurance will cover the cost of the trip, also coverage for trip interruptions and delays.

Seven Corners Trip Protection Insurance

  • Comprehensive trip protection for U.S. residents traveling abroad.
  • Optional rental car collision coverage available.
  • Optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage available (if eligible).

Vaccines Required to Travel to the Philippines

As with all trips, the CDC recommends that travelers are up to date on their routine vaccinations before they travel. This includes measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and the yearly flu shot.

Other important vaccines:

  • Typhoid vaccine and the Hepatitis A vaccine : These vaccines are recommended because you can contract both through contaminated food and water in the Philippines, especially in rural areas.
  • Rabies vaccine : Travelers going to remote areas or planning adventure activities such as cave exploration should be vaccinated for rabies. This is one vaccine that you definitely want to get before you travel. The World Health Organization has reported counterfeit versions of the rabies vaccine and the antirabies serum in the Philippines.
  • Japanese Encephalitis vaccine: Travelers who are spending more than a month in the Philippines should also be vaccinated for Japanese encephalitis.
  • Malaria vaccine:  Malaria is also present in the Philippines but primarily in Palawan and Mindanao. There is no risk in Manila and other urban areas.

While all of these vaccines and preventative measures are strong recommendations, none are mandatory. However, if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever virus transmission, the rules are different. You must be vaccinated before entering the Philippines. This even applies if your time in a yellow fever zone was an airport layover of 12 hours or more.

Water Safety

While there has been significant progress in the average Filipino citizen’s access to clean water, the country still does not have universal potable public water. Travelers should stick with water that is boiled, bottled, or filtered.

General Safety Information for Travel to the Philippines

The government of the Philippines has taken a hard stand against drugs. While it’s never a good idea to use or carry drugs when you travel, the laws in the Philippines are much more than a warning or a suggestion. Using or dealing with drugs in the Philippines means a severe prison term, even possibly death. Travelers can expect merciless enforcement.

However, while there are many warnings and notices about violence in the Philippines, it is primarily concentrated in a few isolated areas, such as the southern region of Mindanao. These areas are unsafe due to ongoing conflict with terrorist groups, violent burglaries, and kidnappings. Travelers are rarely affected. As with all countries, travelers in the Philippines are most at risk for crimes of financial opportunity as opposed to violent crimes. This includes pickpocketing, minor taxi scams, and other common rip-offs.

When and where you go will drastically affect your experience of the Philippines. For instance, Manila has an intense wet season from July to September – but other areas of the country might be completely dry. The country has four climate zones and there’s no one universal wet or dry season. Research before you go!

The streets of Manila and most other cities are crowded with jeepneys. These distinctive vehicles are leftover army jeeps from World War II converted into public minibusses. They’re cute, colorful, and a cheap way to get around town. Plus, their small size means they can get places that buses can’t. They’re flexible enough in their routes to drop passengers off wherever they need. However, jeepneys are notorious for their pollution. Their seating arrangements aren’t exactly safe. Thankfully, many are being updated and refurbished, which benefits both passenger and environmental safety. If you opt for a ride, considering selecting a refurbished jeepney – or at the very least avoiding rush hour!

The Philippines is the fifth largest English-speaking country in the world. An estimated 90% of the population speaks English. The country also has a reputation for being exceptionally friendly and welcoming. If you need help or advice, locals are often happy to lend a cheerful hand.

Emergency Assistance Numbers in The Philippines

  • National Emergency Hotline in the Philippines: 911
  • Philippine National Police Hotline: 117 or (02) 722-0650
  • Philippine Red Cross: 143 or (02) 527-8385
  • Bureau of Fire Protection: (02) 426-0219 or (02) 426-3812

Top Hospitals in the Philippines

The Medical City Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines +61 8 8366 3800

St Lukes Hospital Philippines Medical Center 32nd St. Bonifacio Global City Taguig City, Philippines +1 650 723 4000

For a full listing, see Hospitals in the Philippines .

Passports and Visa Requirements for Travel to the Philippines

Traveling to the Philippines is easy. Travelers from more than 150 countries can travel to the Philippines visa-free. So long as you have a valid passport that does not expire for at least 6 months and proof of onward travel, you can visit the Philippines for 30 days for business or leisure.

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  • The Philippines Healthcare System
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Disclaimer: These are only general descriptions of the benefits of the insurance products. We encourage you to learn more on how they can help secure your finances. The terms and conditions of the insurance products will apply. The product details and premiums are valid as of today and may be changed without prior notice. 

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Travel Insurance For A Trip To The Philippines (2024)

Is Philippines travel insurance worth it? We discuss the cost and coverage, plus travel and safety tips.

in under 2 minutes

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Kristin Peters is a content developer with over seven years of experience researching and writing about various consumer-focused topics. As part of the Guides Home Team, she focuses primarily on home warranties and insurance services that can bring homeowners peace of mind.

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Veronika Jelenik is an editor with a background in journalism. She previously has had her work published in the New York Daily News and the Hartford Courant, and she has covered many disparate topics. Veronika has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and social and cultural analysis. When not immersed in home services content, Veronika enjoys spending time with her friends and her Chihuahua, Beanie.

Traveling to a new country can be an exciting yet nerve-racking experience. Because so many aspects of the trip are out of your control, it’s impossible to predict or avoid every possible mishap. International travel insurance is one way to gain peace of mind and financial protection. You can find policies to cover a variety of situations, such as last-minute cancellations or medical emergencies and theft.

In addition to reviewing the top travel insurance companies , we at the Guides Home Team compiled all the information you need about travel insurance in the Philippines so you can plan a safe and memorable vacation.

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Do I Need Travel Insurance To Visit The Philippines?

Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of $35,000 used to be required for foreign nationals visiting the Philippines. However, in May 2022, the Consulate General of the Philippines in New York issued new guidance stating that travel insurance is encouraged but no longer required.

Although the Philippines no longer requires foreign nationals to obtain travel insurance for their stay, you still need to meet other requirements for entry. You need a passport valid for at least six months and a valid onward or return ticket, as well as applicable COVID-19 vaccination proof.

If you choose to purchase travel insurance, you have options, including coverage for cancellation and medical emergencies.

Compare Philippines Travel Insurance Companies

Review policy rates and protections across top-rated travel insurance companies for a trip to the Philippines in the table below.

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What Kind Of Travel Insurance To Get For A Trip To The Philippines

There are several types of coverage you should consider when buying travel insurance for your trip to the Philippines.

Cancel for Any Reason Coverage

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage is exactly what it sounds like — insurance that covers the cost of canceled travel plans regardless of the reason. Most insurance companies offer CFAR coverage as an upgrade or add-on benefit to a standard travel insurance plan. Standard plans also cover cancellations, but only for certain reasons. Typically, those reasons are limited to unforeseen events and things outside your control, such as a natural disaster or medical emergency.

With CFAR coverage, you can cancel for reasons not covered by a standard plan without an explanation. The freedom to cancel for any reason has become especially attractive during the era of COVID-19, as public health recommendations and requirements change frequently. CFAR coverage allows you to cancel if anything pops up that makes you uneasy about the timing or destination of your trip. Your reasons could be personal, financial or even hypothetical.

Tip: Check the U.S. Department of State’s (DOS) travel advisory for the Philippines shortly before leaving. Look for updates to the advisory level, health information and areas of increased risk that might affect your travel plans.

Gear Theft Protection

When you travel, your personal belongings are at risk of being lost, damaged or stolen. The airline could lose your luggage, or your bags could be delayed, leaving you without critical gear. A thief could snatch your suitcase or laptop from your Manila hotel room or pickpocket your wallet and passport as you sample Filipino cuisine.

Travel insurance that includes gear theft protection or baggage insurance can help you replace your stolen gear and even your travel documents. Depending on the situation, the insurance company may pay to repair or replace your belongings plus cover the cost of rental equipment if necessary after a theft, loss or delay.

You should also read through your renters or homeowners insurance before leaving for the Philippines. Many policies cover your personal belongings when traveling, not just when you are home. However, certain limits and exclusions may apply.

Tip: Make a list or take photos of everything you take on your trip. That inventory will come in handy if your bags are stolen, lost or delayed. If you experience theft, report it promptly and keep a copy of any official documentation, such as a police report, to submit to your insurance provider.

Medical Emergency Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation

Medical emergency insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage may be the most important features of your travel insurance. Without insurance, stolen gear or a missed flight might cost you a few hundred dollars. Canceling your entire trip could cost several thousand dollars. However, experiencing a medical emergency overseas could cost tens of thousands of dollars — especially if you need to be evacuated.

Many travel insurance plans include $500,000 or $1,000,000 of medical evacuation coverage paired with $15,000 to $500,000 of medical coverage. As you decide how much coverage to purchase, think through your plans and itinerary. Consider where and how you will be spending your time. High-risk activities and remote locations may increase the likelihood that you will need medical care.

Remember that before changes were announced in May 2022, the Philippines required foreign nationals to obtain at least $35,000 of coverage. Squaremouth , a leading travel insurance quoting and comparison engine that has helped insure more than 2.5 million customers, recommends at least $50,000 of medical emergency coverage and $100,000 of medical evacuation coverage.

Tip: If you have a preexisting medical condition, you may need to purchase a waiver to ensure your plan will cover it. Not all plans will cover preexisting conditions, and those that do may need you to meet certain requirements.

Rental Car Protection

You may or may not need rental car protection for your trip to the Philippines. To decide, consider whether you plan to rent a vehicle and what, if any, coverage you already have.

Contact your car insurance agent to find out what your existing auto policy covers. Few U.S. car insurance companies will cover you when you’re driving abroad, but it’s worth checking. You should also check with your credit card company, as some card issues offer complimentary rental car insurance.

You can purchase protection directly from the rental car company. Liability insurance, which covers injuries and property damage you cause other people, may be included in the rental price. For broader coverage, you typically have the option to purchase a collision damage waiver. However, it is often less expensive to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes rental car coverage.

Tip: Consider getting an international driving permit (IDP) before your trip. Although you should be able to use your state-issued driver’s license in the Philippines for up to 90 days, many countries require an IDP. You should also research the driving laws, culture and conditions in the Philippines to ensure that you will be comfortable driving there.

Trip Cancellation Insurance

Most travel insurance plans include trip cancellation insurance , often paired with travel delay and trip interruption coverage. Unlike CFAR coverage, this coverage is typically limited to certain situations. Your policy documents should spell out which situations do or do not qualify for reimbursement. Companies may also differ on how they treat cancellations related to the coronavirus pandemic.

If you cancel for a covered reason, trip cancellation insurance will generally cover any non-refundable trip costs up to the policy limit. You decide the coverage limits. When you apply, the insurance company will ask about your trip cost. Make sure the figure you provide includes all the prepaid, non-refundable expenses associated with your trip. If you say your trip costs $2,000, that is what your coverage limit will be.

Tip: If you need to cancel your trip, be ready to provide documentation. The insurance company will want to verify your reason for canceling. You will also need to provide proof of your expenses, such as receipts or itemized bills.

Flight Insurance

Though you only need flight insurance if you plan to fly, a trip to the Philippines will almost certainly require air travel. The Philippines is an island nation that lies more than 7,000 miles from California and nearly 5,500 miles from Hawaii. In many cases, you can expect your plans to include at least one connection, which increases the odds that you will miss a flight. Unless you purchased a fully refundable ticket, airlines are not always required to issue a refund or voucher.

Flight insurance helps you cover the cost of booking a new flight if you miss your original flight. You can purchase flight insurance from the airline itself or from a third-party travel insurance company. For international travel, it might be wiser to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance plan that includes flight coverage. You could miss your flight for many reasons, and some may involve costs not covered by flight insurance alone.

Tip: Check the vaccination requirements of each airport you will pass through on your way to the Philippines, as COVID-19 protocols may vary. You may need certain documentation, such as a negative test result, proof of vaccination or a health declaration form ready to present.

How Much Does Philippines Travel Insurance Cost?

The first step to finding the cheapest travel insurance is comparing costs. The age of the traveler, the destination location and the total trip cost all factor into travel insurance costs.

To give you a general idea of what to expect, we obtained quotes from three companies for two different trip scenarios. For each plan, the trip cancellation coverage equals the trip cost, which is $2,000 for the first scenario and $5,000 for the second.

Quotes listed below were collected from each company’s respective website in December 2022 and assume June 2023 travel dates for a Virginia resident.

Trip 1: 27-year-old traveler, $2,000 trip cost, 7-day trip length

Trip 2: 45-year-old traveler, $5,000 trip cost, 14-day trip length, how do i get travel insurance for a philippines vacation.

Follow these steps to purchase Philippines travel insurance:

  • Add up your trip costs. This will tell you how much coverage you need. Your tally should include all expenses that are prepaid and nonrefundable to ensure sufficient trip cancellation coverage.
  • Gather quotes. Gather quotes from several companies. Most companies offer multiple comprehensive plans with different terms and coverage limits.
  • Read the fine print. Make sure you understand what each policy covers. You may want to ask specifically about preexisting conditions, travel assistance, COVID-19 coverage and covered cancellations.
  • Choose a plan. Compare your options and choose the best plan for your travel needs. If you have multiple trips planned in a year, consider investing in an annual travel insurance plan.

Remember, it’s best to purchase travel insurance as soon as possible after booking your trip. If you wait too long, you may be ineligible for coverage or risk the denial of certain claims.

The Philippines Travel and Safety Tips

Although getting travel insurance is important, it’s equally important to do what you can to avoid needing it. Start by reading through the travel and safety tips below.

Coronavirus precautions in the Philippines are set by the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases. In October 2022, the IATF issued new guidance . Foreign nationals age 15 or older must present one of two things to enter the Philippines:

  • Proof of vaccination. To be considered fully vaccinated against COVID-19, you need to have received the second dose of a two-dose series or a single-dose vaccine more than 14 days prior to your departure from your country of origin.
  • Negative rapid antigen test result. The COVID-19 test must have been administered and certified by a healthcare professional within 24 hours prior to your departure from your country of origin.

Note that a pre-departure COVID-19 test is no longer required for those who are fully vaccinated. Another recent change is that the country now requires a rapid antigen test within 24 hours rather than an RT-PCR test within 48 hours for unvaccinated individuals.

As of October 2022, face masks are no longer required except in healthcare facilities, medical transport and public transportation. Inbound travelers must only quarantine if they test positive for COVID-19 through a rapid antigen test. Quarantine protocols are set by the country’s Department of Health (DOH). The DOH maintains an FAQ page that travelers may find useful.

You can find a COVID-19 case tracker on the Philippines DOH website, along with a list of relevant updates and policies. You can also check the U.S. Embassy website for information related to COVID-19 and travel to the Philippines.

Crime and Safety

The U.S. DOS has four travel advisory levels. As of December 2022, the Philippines fell into the yellow level-two category: exercise increased caution. Noted risks include crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping, particularly in the Sulu Archipelago, Marawi City and other areas of Mindanao.

According to Statista , the most prevalent crime in the Philippines is theft, with 11,492 incidents reported in 2021. The DOS highlights other dangers, including kidnappings and physical assaults. Specifically, it notes that travelers leaving Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport via taxi or private vehicle have been stopped and robbed.

If you fall victim to a crime, you should report it to the local police at the 911 hotline. U.S. citizens should also contact the U.S. Embassy at +(63)(2)5302-2000. The DOS recommends enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This enables you to receive important security messages and makes it easier for authorities to locate you in an emergency.

Day Trips, Tours and Excursions

The largest island of the Philippines, Luzon, is home to the capital city of Manila. Other popular cities include Cebu in the central Visayas island group, Puerto Princesa on the westernmost island of Palawan, and El Nido at the northern tip of Palawan. Breathtaking scenery and recreational opportunities abound near all four cities. Here are a few of the top attractions and activities for tourists:

  • Whale shark tours: Many tours offer a chance to see or even swim with the world’s largest fish. An up-close encounter is virtually guaranteed in Oslob, though some question the sustainability and ethics of the town’s setup. Other options are Donsol, on the island of Luzon, and Sogod Bay on Southern Leyte. The best months for this activity are November through May.
  • Island hopping: Island-hopping tours allow you to visit multiple islands in one day. These tours often last 8 hours or longer and include lunch. To maximize the experience, choose a tour with a recreational activity you’d like to try, such as snorkeling or canyoneering.
  • Beaches: As you might expect, the Philippines is home to several stunning beaches. Three popular destinations are El Nido’s Nacpan Beach and Boracay Island’s White Beach and Puka Shell Beach.
  • Banaue Rice Terraces: Located in the mountains north of Manila, the Banaue Rice Terraces are a marvel carved into the landscape more than 2,000 years ago by the Ifugao people. The terraces are spread across several villages, including Batad. Many tours of this area are planned as a scenic multi-day adventure.

This list only scratches the surface of the things to do and see in the Philippines. The country also boasts multiple lakes, caves, parks and even underground rivers. Historical and religious sites include Fort Santiago, the Magellan’s Cross Pavilion, Cebu Taoist Temple and the Basilica del Santo Niño.

If you anticipate your trip being a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, we recommend setting aside at least 10 days. You will have no problem filling the time. Plan your itinerary well in advance, and be realistic about how much you can fit into your visit.

Is Travel Insurance For a Trip To The Philippines Worth It?

Purchasing travel insurance for a Philippines vacation is worth it if you want nonrefundable trip costs covered in an unexpected situation. Forgoing insurance or opting for a bare-bones plan could end up being an expensive decision if something goes wrong before or during your trip. A vacation here is not without risks. Theft is relatively common, and many of the top tourist attractions are heavily dependent on good weather.

Shop around before picking a plan. We recommend gathering quotes from at least three companies. Then compare not only the prices but also the coverage limits, benefits and exclusions to ensure you get the best deal and coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance for The Philippines

Does philippine airlines require travel insurance.

When you book a flight to the Philippines from any other country through Philippine Airlines, your ticket automatically includes travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage. This coverage, which starts upon your arrival in the Philippines, is complimentary but not optional. It provides up to 30 days of protection for passengers from 2 weeks to 75 years old. It includes the following:

  • Up to $35,000 for COVID-related medical expenses
  • Up to $35,000 for COVID-related medical evacuation
  • Up to $2,000 of personal accident coverage
  • 24/7 emergency travel and medical assistance

How do you know if you need travel insurance?

To determine whether you need travel insurance, you should consider three things: cancellation policies, existing coverage and level of risk. Think through everything that could go wrong and what you can afford. Between complimentary coverage, existing insurance policies and generous cancellation policies, you may not need travel insurance.

If each item you have booked — hotels, flights , tours, etc. — can be canceled for any reason without penalty, then you can forgo cancellation coverage. For medical expenses, you may be covered by your existing health insurance, and your renters or homeowners insurance may cover any theft of your personal belongings. Some credit cards even offer complimentary travel insurance, including rental car coverage.

Which travel insurance policies cover COVID-19?

Standard travel insurance policies may or may not cover a COVID-related cancellation or delay, but most will provide medical coverage if you contract COVID-19 while traveling. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) policies will cover you if you need to cancel your trip due to COVID-19 — whether because you are sick or because of a lockdown or outbreak.

To ensure your travel insurance covers COVID-19, read through any policy documents carefully or speak to an agent. Ask about terms that may apply, such as a pandemic or foreseeable risk exclusion.

How much is travel insurance?

Travel insurance can cost anywhere from 4% to 12% of the total cost of your trip, according to Generali . However, the exact cost will vary depending on several factors, including the length and location of your trip. Your age and health may also play a role. We recommend gathering quotes from multiple companies to ensure you get the best possible rate.

Some insurance companies, such as Nationwide and Allianz, offer annual travel insurance plans that are more affordable than purchasing separate policies for each trip. You may also qualify for free but limited coverage through the airline or your credit card.

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Top Travel Insurances for the Philippines You Should Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg, writer at Monito.com

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture (including the famous Ati-Atihan Festival and Sinulog Festival), the Philippines is a great destination for travellers from abroad. Although travelling to the Philippines can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, out-the-pocket healthcare costs in the country tend to be expensive, so it's a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance under your belt.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to the Philippines and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

Philippines Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for the Philippines:

Best Travel Insurances for the Philippines

  • 01. Should I get travel insurance for the Philippines? scroll down
  • 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
  • 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
  • 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
  • 05. FAQ about travel insurance to the Philippines scroll down

Heading to the Philippines soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

  • 💳 Eager to dodge high FX fees? See our picks for the best travel cards in 2024.
  • 🛂 Need a visa? Let iVisa take care of it for you.
  • ✈ Looking for flights? Compare on Skyscanner !
  • 💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
  • 💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for the Philippines?

No, there's currently no legal requirement to take out travel insurance for travel to or through the Philippines.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to the Philippines or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for the Philippines:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to the Philippines. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to the Philippines, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

Get a quote 🡪

  • Coverage 9.0
  • Quality of Service 9.0
  • Pricing 7.6
  • Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for the Philippines:

  • Policy names: Varies
  • Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
  • Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
  • Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
  • Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
  • Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
  • Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

Get a quote 🡪

  • Coverage 7.8
  • Quality of Service 8.5
  • Pricing 7.4
  • Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

  • Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
  • Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
  • Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
  • Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
  • Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
  • Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
  • Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

Get a quote 🡪

  • Coverage 7.0
  • Quality of Service 8.0
  • Pricing 6.3
  • Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

  • Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
  • Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
  • Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
  • Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
  • Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
  • Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to the Philippines? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to the Philippines

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, you'll not be required to take out travel insurance for the Philippines. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in the Philippines can be high, and taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself if you need medical attention during your stay.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

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  • Open access
  • Published: 12 March 2024

Unraveling socioeconomic determinants of health-related behavior, reception of information, and perceptions on disease disclosure at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic: did health insurance curb the disparities in the Philippines?

  • Josue Antonio G. Estrada   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-5199-2933 1  

BMC Public Health volume  24 , Article number:  767 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

17 Accesses

Metrics details

The study uncovers micro and macro socioeconomic disparities in terms of health behavior, disease perception, and reception of information. Furthermore, findings shed light on the possible role of health insurance on access to information, disease perception and the adoption of preventive behaviors in the context of a public health emergency such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

This study employed a cross-sectional design using the Philippine Demographic and Health Survey (DHS). With a total of 29,809 respondents, it evaluated the individual or household and systemwide socioeconomic determinants of four different outcomes: receipt of information, disease perception, uptake of free preventive services, and treatment-seeking behavior. In addition to logistic regression models with the socioeconomic variables as the independent variables, models for the evaluation of the moderating effect of insurance ownership were fitted. Predicted probabilities were reported for the analysis of moderating effects.

Findings show that individual and householdsocioeconomic determinants affected health-behavior and access to or receipt of information pertinent to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both education and wealth affected the receipt of information such that individuals in more advantaged socioeconomic positions were at least 30% more likely to have received information on COVID-19. Wealth was also associated to treatment-seeking behavior. Regional differences were seen across all dependent variables. Moreover, the study provides evidence that ownership of insurance can close education-based gaps in the uptake of free vaccination and COVID-19 testing.

It is imperative that targeted efforts be maximized by utilizing existing strategies and mechanisms to reach the marginalized and disadvantaged segments of the population. Health insurance may give off added benefits that increase proficiency in navigating through the healthcare system. Further research may focus on examining pathways by which health insurance or social policies may be used to leverage responses to public health or environmental emergencies.

Peer Review reports

Introduction

More than 2 years have passed since the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 or SARS-CoV-2 virus first emerged and rapidly spread all over the globe, causing a pandemic that has profoundly impacted the lives of billions of people. As of mid-2023, there is an estimated 6.9 million deaths caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) disease and although the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the end of the public health emergency, many remain affected by productivity losses, disability, and other persistent health and social effects of the pandemic [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. To make things worse, the mid- and long-term effects on socioeconomic factors and quality of life at both the micro and macro levels are expected to cause a continuing scourge in the years to come [ 4 , 5 ].

The literature documents inequalities not just in infection and mortality but also in other aspects and effects of the COVID-19 pandemic among and within countries [ 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 ]. On a larger scale, low- and middle-income countries have taken the brunt of the ill effects of this pandemic while within countries, socioeconomically disadvantaged populations were forced to take several steps further away from achieving a good quality of life [ 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 ]. Differences in contextual factors such as socioeconomic status give rise to disparities in terms of access to information, healthcare, and social services and even in health-related behavior and disease-associated stigma which subsequently affected infection, mortality rates and the emergence of long-term economic and social effects [ 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 ].

The Philippines, a lower-middle income country, was one of the most severely affected countries in the Western Pacific and Southeast Asian regions [ 19 , 20 , 21 ]. As of July 2023, almost 67 thousand COVID-19 related deaths have occurred in the country– the second highest number of deaths in Southeast Asia [ 1 ]. Despite vast improvements in health service quality and coverage and achievement of several important milestones such as the implementation of landmark legislature for universal health care and excise tax for tobacco and alcohol which increased resources for health, the country’s healthcare system remains lacking as problems in resource allocation and inadequate capacity remain [ 22 , 23 ]. At the beginning of the pandemic, the country only had 8 physicians per 100,000 population and 2,335 critical care beds [ 24 , 25 ]. Health capacity and resources are unevenly distributed with much of these concentrated in urban and highly-developed areas while the rural population, comprising almost half of the total population, rely mostly on primary care centers and community and some tertiary hospitals with limitations on laboratory and diagnostic testing capacity, health personnel, equipment and supplies and as a consequence, possess very limited surge capacity [ 26 , 27 , 28 ]. Governance is decentralized hence, while national strategies are in place, local governments are mainly responsible for the crafting of plans and service provision [ 27 ]. Localities create disaster risk reduction and management plans but these are crafted mostly for environmental emergencies and natural disasters and do not usually cover plans for the mitigation of the effect of epidemics and other public health emergencies [ 29 ]. At the onset of the pandemic, strategies such as “community quarantines”, internal movement and travel restrictions, and mass testing were implemented but certain challenges were encountered. For instance, due to limited infrastructure, testing was implemented mostly in urban areas. Additionally, as Filipinos spend more than 10 hours a day in the internet, there was an added challenge on risk communication with the emergence of various sources of misinformation [ 26 , 30 , 31 ]. In the hopes of bringing attention and building more equitable healthcare systems, the study examined the socioeconomic determinants of health and associated disparities in terms of receipt of COVID-19 related information, health behavior at the time of the pandemic, and perceived stigma. This analysis based on the Philippine Health and Demographic Survey (DHS) and done among adults aged 18 and above provide an understanding of the different aspects of the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, this study explored and offered insights into the potential role that the national health insurance program (NHIP) under the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC), popularly called Philhealth, and other health insurance, play in the curbing of socioeconomic disparities in COVID-19 related behavior, refusal to disclose disease, and access to information. Classical economic theories posit that the possession of health insurance may disincentivize individuals to take preventive efforts to remain healthy. This is termed ex-ante moral hazard and is suggested to stem from an informational asymmetry, where the insurer cannot observed some of the actions of the insured [ 32 , 33 ]. However, the fact that health insurance covers only part of the expenses may mean that the extent of moral hazard in terms of health behavior may not be significant enough in most cases [ 34 ]. In fact, most empirical evidence has shown, that health insurance can, to some degree, induce health-related behavior change in a beneficial manner [ 34 , 35 , 36 , 37 ]. The social cognitive theory asserts that individuals require information about health risks and uses these information to develop self-regulatory and risk-reduction skills however self-efficacy, is a key factor to adoption of these skills [ 38 ]. Theoretically, insurance ownership may also impart health consciousness and health-related information such as those on risk reduction leading to behavior change and adoption of appropriate health-related behavior. Furthermore, ownership of health insurance may be considered a resource that can impart skills essential for efficient navigation of the healthcare system [ 39 ]. In the Philippines, the introduction of reforms towards universal healthcare has, in theory, made health insurance available to everyone through several schemes such as the point-of-care enrolment [ 23 ]. However, information asymmetry and poor health literacy resulting from poor communication may hinder individuals from gaining knowledge of their entitlement to health insurance and to financial and nonfinancial benefits that come with it [ 40 ]. Therefore, this study measures if entitlement to benefits of health insurance in the Philippine context modifies the relationship between socioeconomic determinants and COVID-19 related behavior and access to information. More than providing a picture of disparities that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, results of this study could contribute to the knowledge base of the indirect role of interventions such as health insurance in curbing health inequalities or specifically modifying preventive behaviors.

Study design, sample and data

The study used cross-sectional data from the 2022 Philippine DHS, a nationwide survey conducted from May 2 to June 22, 2022 and included a more than 30,000 households. The Philippine DHS 2022 has a response rate of 99.2% [ 41 ]. Included in this study are survey respondents aged 18 and above who are de jure or usual residents of the interviewed households. Three sets of analytic samples were considered were used for the study– an overall analytic sample, an analytic sample for the outcome “uptake of free preventive services”, and an analytic sample for the outcome “Treatment-seeking behavior” which was derived for those who confirmed having experienced COVID-19 related symptoms since January 2020. Figure S1 in the appendix shows how these analytic samples were derived. Data used was extracted from the household survey module. A complete case analysis was done, hence, observations with missing information for relevant variables were excluded. A multistage stratified sampling design was used for the survey, details of which are discussed in the DHS report [ 41 ].

The study used publicly available de-identified data which were requested from the DHS program. The survey has undergone ethical review under the institutional board of ICF International.

Outcome variables

The study considered a total of four outcome variables, each representing a dimension of health behavior and access to information. These variables are listed in Table  1 .

Health-seeking behavior was represented by 2 variables: (a) uptake of free vaccination and testing services and (b) seeking consultation and treatment due to COVID-19 or COVID-19 related symptoms. For the latter, the study considered only those who answered “Yes” to the question: “Since January 2020, have you ever had COVID-19 or COVID-19 symptoms such as fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea?”. These variables, to a certain degree, measure risk perception and preventive behavior which affect disease transmission and effectiveness of social measures. In a study by Ye and Lyu [ 42 ], risk perception mediated the relationship between public trust and COVID-19 infection. Another outcome variable considered was the respondent’s decision to make COVID-19 diagnosis of a family member a secretor refusal to disclose disease may represent perceptions of stigmatization and has been shown to be an aspect of the overall stigma experience of an individual [ 43 , 44 ]. Refusal to disclose disease may be related to courtesy stigma or stima-in-association which refers to the perceived and experienced stigma of associates from the general public toward themselves [ 45 ]. A related concept, affiliate stigma, on the other hand, is the internalization of stigma among associates and describes the extent of self-stigmatization and cognitive, behavioral and affective responses of the associates [ 46 , 47 ]. Lastly, access to information, a crucial factor affecting adoption of preventive and healthy behavior, was represented by perceived access to information, which in turn, was assessed through the respondent’s receipt of health-related information about COVID-19 [ 48 , 49 ].

Socioeconomic determinants

There were three socioeconomic determinants considered in the analysis. At the micro level, differences in levels of wealth and education were assessed. Respondents were assessed as either poor (belonging to the poorest 40% of the population) or nonpoor based on the household wealth index of the Philippine DHS. Wealth index scores, a composite measure of a household’s cumulative living standard, were estimated using principal component analysis (PCA) from information on a household’s ownership of selected assets. The estimation of these scores are described further in relevant documents [ 50 , 51 ]. For education, highest educational attainment was used and classified as either “with secondary education or higher” or “lower than secondary education”. For the macro level determinant, the study used regions classified in quartiles according to the reported poverty incidence in 2021 [ 52 ]. The quartiles were classified according to regionwide statistics, with the first quartile containing the regions with the highest poverty incidence.

Health insurance ownership

This study considers knowledge on ownership of insurance which was defined in 3 categories: (1) no health insurance, (2) entitled to PhilHealth and (3) entitled to Philhealth and other health insurance. Those who reported entitlement to PhilHealth are either members or dependents of listed members.

Philhealth, being the national health insurance, is mandatory for employees in public and private institutions while voluntary for the workers in the informal economy. Sponsored members or those whose premiums are subsidized by the government mostly include indigent citizens. As mentioned, the advent of universal health care law has, in theory, made PhilHealth available to everyone, however, as evidenced by results of the DHS, a sizeable proportion of the population is still unaware of their entitlement to the social health insurance [ 41 ].

Due to sparse data issues, respondents were classified into the three aforementioned groups based on their responses when asked of their ownership of health insurance. Less than 1% of the overall analytic sample declared being entitled to benefits of other insurance only. However, with the assumption that Philhealth is considered as the main source of health insurance, while health insurance from other sources such as that from the private market is often considered supplementary, the small proportion of respondents who responded having other insurance only were classified as having both Philhealth and other insurance. The potential impact of the adoption of this categorical approach was minimal as illustrated in the appendix (see Appendix 2 ).

Confounders

A review of literature reveals possible factors which may confound the relationship of socioeconomic factors to COVID-19 response related outcomes [ 53 , 54 , 55 , 56 , 57 , 58 ]. Among these, the following variables were considered in the analysis: sex (male or female), age (categorized as < 20, 21–30,31–40, 41–50, 51–60, and 60 and above), area of residence (urban or rural), household size (number of de jure household members categorized as 1–3, 4–6, 7 and above), relationship to household head (categorized as self, spouse, child, or others), awareness of programs on COVID-19 (defined as awareness of free vaccination and COVID-19 testing and classified as aware or unaware), belief that COVID-19 can be prevented (defined as one’s belief that COVID-19 can be prevented through vaccination or other social measures and classified as believing or does not believe) and use of internet (defined as use of internet for health-related reasons and classified as yes or no).

Statistical analysis

All analyses were weighted based on the complex survey design of the data in use. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all participants and analyses were conducted using R (version 4.3.1). The threshold for statistical significance was set at an alpha of 0.05.

Binary logistic regression was used to conduct two levels of analysis. The first level included models wherein the main effects of the socioeconomic determinants were determined, and insurance ownership was considered a confounder, together with the other identified variables. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and their respective 95% confidence intervals were reported for each socioeconomic determinant. For the second level of analysis, the moderating effect of insurance ownership was assessed through the introduction of interaction terms between each socioeconomic variable and health insurance ownership. The Wald test was used to determine if there were significant differences in the relationship of the socioeconomic determinants with the COVID-19 related outcomes across levels of insurance ownership. Relationships were further elaborated using predictive margins. To provide further illustration, predicted probabilities were plotted.

Descriptive statistics

The total analytic sample is comprised of 29,809 individuals which comprises 98% of the total household sample interviewed in the 2022 Philippine DHS. For assessments involving the outcome, “uptake of free preventive services”, the study included 27,999 respondents while for “treatment-seeking behavior”, the study included 5,130 respondents who was diagnosed with COVID-19 or exhibited symptoms of the disease. Table  2 shows the descriptive statistics of the overall sample in terms of weighted proportions.

Among those with both PhilHealth and other health insurance, 77% are nonpoor while 89.4% finished at least secondary education. Regions with the least poverty incidence are most represented in the survey with more than 40% of respondents belonging to these regions. Most of the respondents are female, aged 31 and above, living in urban areas, and in households with 4 to 6 members. Respondents are also generally shown to be aware of free vaccination and testing services, and an overwhelming majority are aware of and believe in measures to prevent COVID-19. Lastly, most individuals use the internet for health reasons. This was observed regardless of ownership of insurance.

Figure  1 illustrates the weighted proportion and 95% confidence intervals of the outcomes in the analytic samples. As shown in the figure, approximately 47–49% of respondents availed free preventive services while less than 55% of those who had COVID-19 or related symptoms sought treatment or consultation. Meanwhile, less than 10% of respondents agreed or were uncertain about keeping a diagnosis of COVID-19 in the family a secret. Considering that this is a public health emergency, penetration of information among the respondents can be considered inadequate, with only approximately 70% of respondents reporting receipt of information on the pandemic. Generally, those with Philhealth and other insurance had more favorable outcomes.

figure 1

Weighted proportion and corresponding 95% confidence intervals of the respondents with the outcome, by category of health insurance ownership

Socioeconomic disparities

The first level of analysis revealed that individual socioeconomic determinants affected health-behavior and perceived access to or receipt of information pertinent to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both education and wealth affected the receipt of information such that individuals in more advantaged socioeconomic positions were 30% more likely to have received information on COVID-19. Education and wealth-based disparities were also seen in the uptake of COVID-19 vaccination and free testing services while for treatment-seeking behavior, only wealth was found to be significantly associated. However, if we look at results for the macro-level socioeconomic determinant, regional disparities can be seen across all outcomes considered. Furthermore, regions with the lowest poverty incidence were generally found to have more beneficial outcomes. Table  3 presents the results of the multivariate models.

Insurance ownership as a moderator

Figure  2 shows the plotted predicted probabilities for each socioeconomic determinant across categories of health insurance ownership in each COVID-19 related outcome. Shown in Table  4 are the predicted probabilities of each level of socioeconomic determinant for each study outcome, stratified by the different categories of health insurance ownership. Testing for interaction between the socioeconomic determinants and health insurance ownership revealed that health insurance modified the relationship between education and uptake of free preventive services, specifically vaccination and free COVID-19 testing. Among those without health insurance, the probability of availing preventive services was significantly higher in those with at least secondary education. Ownership of health insurance– either PhilHealth alone or in combination with other health insurance– curbed the disparity between the two levels of educational disposition. Among people with at least Philhealth as insurance, living in regions with the lowest poverty incidence gives significantly higher probabilities of getting vaccinated and availing testing services than living in regions with the highest levels of poverty. When considering people without health insurance, one can see significant differences in the levels of refusal to disclose disease, with “poorer” regions experiencing higher levels of refusal to disclose COVID-19 diagnosis in the family. For populations who own insurance, no regional differences were seen with regards to this outcome. On the other hand, a notable result can be seen in the case of household wealth. Among those who reported that they don’t own any health insurance, poorer individuals have shown a higher probability to perceive disclosure of disease negatively but among those who reported ownership of insurance, individuals from nonpoor households were more likely to keep diagnosis of COVID-19 in the family a secret. Differences on predicted probabilities were, however, not significant. Marginally significant results can also be seen with wider socioeconomic disparities among insured populations in terms of (a) education and refusal to disclose disease, and (b) wealth and treatment-seeking behavior.

figure 2

Predicted probabilities of socioeconomic determinant across categories of self-reported health insurance ownership for ( A ) receipt of information about the COVID-19 pandemic, ( B ) refusal to disclose disease, ( C ) uptake of free preventive services, and ( D ) treatment-seeking behavior

Results of the study show that socioeconomic disparities at the individual and regional levels were observed in perceived access to information, perceptions, response, and behaviors at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. At an individual or household level, wealth and education were seen to be related to receipt of health information regarding COVID-19 and uptake of free preventive services. At the regional level, poverty incidence, which may be indicative of governance efficiency and availability and equitability of social services, has been found to give rise to inequalities in health behavior, receipt of information and refusal to disclose disease. These study’s findings are important considering that healthcare navigation and individual responses, including disease perceptions shape, not only the individual’s outcome, but on a collective level, the population’s health outcomes [ 59 , 60 , 61 ]. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, these disparities in preventive behavior and disease perception may have implications in dynamics based on disease transmission, severity of outcomes and mid- and long-term health and economic effects. On the other hand, access to information especially in times of public health emergencies is essential to mitigate the health and social impacts of the crisis [ 62 ]. Acknowledging the disparities in health-related behavior and access to information is an important component of a targeted, comprehensive, and effective response to public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

In terms of perceived access to information and uptake of free preventive services, both wealth and education were considered significant determinants with those in higher socioeconomic positions gaining health advantage more than their poor and less educated counterparts. Health literacy is generally expected to be higher in more educated individuals as they have greater perceived access to information and are more able to interpret and assess the verity of information [ 63 , 64 , 65 ]. In the same way, wealth endows greater amounts of financial, informational and social resources. Furthermore, people in higher socioeconomic status are more likely to develop skills that can enable them to maximize use of available resources and adopt beneficial health behaviors that can lead to health advantage. Among individuals who were confirmed to have COVID-19 or showed related symptoms, disparities were primarily driven by differences in levels of wealth such that individuals from nonpoor households were 74% more likely to seek consultation. Disparities in wealth can be partlyexplained by the fact that the cost of healthcare or possible out-of-pocket expenditure may outweigh perceived risk. It may also be because patient isolation may entail opportunity costs due to loss of livelihood and considerations about the precarity in the quality of care or conditions and experience of being isolated. While Philhealth provides reimbursements, these may be inadequate when considering factors such as increased cost of high quality or satisfactory care– in the context of a public health emergency involving a highly transmissible infectious agent - and indirect costs associated with treatment-seeking such as waiting time, transportation costs, use of technology with higher transactional costs, and uncertainty of seeing a physician [ 66 , 67 ]. In general, out-of-pocket (OOP) payments made by PhilHealth members are still significant as, on average, PhilHealth is only able to cover 56% of healthcare costs with limited coverage for outpatient services [ 68 , 69 ]. In inpatient settings, mild to moderate pneumonia due to COVID-19 can lead to OOP payments ranging from USD 538 to USD 925– a huge amount considering that the median monthly basic pay of time-rated workers on full-time basis across all industries in 2020 was only pegged at approximately USD 272 [ 70 , 71 ]. Another possible explanation is that poor insurance literacy especially on complex administrative processes for claims may deter individuals from seeking care [ 72 ]. Furthermore, nonpoor individuals may have enough resources to purchase higher quality care in healthcare facilities with safer environments thus the observed disparity [ 73 ]. This phenomenon is demonstrated in significant wealth-based disparities which persisted regardless of ownership of insurance.

Results for the macro-level socioeconomic determinant, on the other hand, show that there were regional disparities in the health-related behavior, refusal to disclose disease and receipt of information. People in regions with the highest poverty incidences were clearly disadvantaged across all study outcomes. Receipt of information regarding the pandemic and treatment-seeking behavior were generally better in richer regions. While there is a maldistribution of resources among regions in the Philippines, those considered more developed and highly urbanized have more resources for healthcare in general, and have more efficient local governance, which translates to more available infrastructure, human resource for health and healthcare services and more spending on social protection programs [ 27 , 74 ]. Efficiency in turn, increases trust, ultimately leading to higher uptake of free services [ 75 , 76 ].

This analysis also suggests a possible unraveling of the role of health insurance on socioeconomic disparities. Knowledge on entitlement to insurance was associated with better outcomes and nonsignificant socioeconomic disparities in some of the outcomes. A study by Soni [ 77 ] also provides evidence that health insurance ownership may help improve health-related behavior especially among people in low socioeconomic positions. For micro-level socioeconomic status, ownership of insurance has shown to curb the education-based disparities in uptake of free vaccination and testing. In the case of free service utilization such as vaccination, information costs are higher than financial costs as trust is a major prerequisite for uptake [ 78 ]. This result may demonstrate health insurance’s ability to bridge the education-based gap in uptake of preventive services. In this case, possession of insurance may have imparted additional health knowledge or increased health literacy thus increasing one’s propensity to avail free services regardless of level of education [ 63 ]. Ownership of health insurance may have led to increased access to and interaction with health care providers which may improve knowledge and establish trust with the healthcare system thereby increasing the probability of availing preventive services [ 79 ]. The same mechanisms may have also operated when considering differences in the negative perception on disease disclosure across different regions. As seen in the results, higher poverty incidence on a regional level was associated with higher probability for a certain degree of stigmatization of COVID-19. Negative perceptions on disease disclosure or the decision to keep diagnosis of COVID-19 a secret may be indicative of of self-perception of stigma and can arise from low health literacy. Possession of health insurance may increase access to factual information about the disease, hence buffering the effect of differential transmittal of information across regions [ 80 ]. Theoretical effects of increased health literacy that comes with having health insurance extend to regional disparities in the uptake of free vaccination. Probabilities of vaccination and free testing were generally higher among those with health insurance. However, a clear difference in uptake of services was seen between the regions with the highest poverty incidence which means that the “richest” regions may have complemented the effects of health insurance with efficiency in the relay of information. It is also important to note that regions with higher incidences of poverty have bigger rural populations, less infrastructure, and less number of health facilities and providers [ 27 , 74 ].

Notably, in some instances, wider socioeconomic disparities were seen in groups insured with Philhealth only and Philhealth and other insurance. In the case of treatment-seeking behavior, the availability of insurance packages for COVID-19 may encourage individuals to seek care [ 66 , 67 , 71 ]. However, since most facilities are inundated by the volume of patients, accessibility to a facility able to accommodate the individual may require greater financial costs in terms of transportation costs or even time costs [ 81 ]. Furthermore, access to quality and safe healthcare services such as telemedicine or the ones provided in high-level healthcare facilities, comes with significant costs as well. Individuals from poor households might have limited capacity and access to resources for this expense. Of note, however,are negative relationships between knowledge of entitlement to health insurance and socioeconomic disparities in the outcome, “refusal to disclose disease”. Considering education or wealth, socioeconomic disparities were seen to be wider among insured populations and probabilities of keeping COVID-19 diagnosis of a family member a secret were higher among socioeconomically advantaged populations. Filipinos are culturally family-centered and families in the Philippine context, are usually extended and have closeknit ties, often living together in one roof [ 82 ]. Several psychological responses may lead people who are at a higher risk of contagion to perceive courtesy stigma and internalize it [ 83 ]. In a study by Duan et al. [ 83 ], high level of education was associated with perception of courtesy and affiliate stigma. They further explained that well-educated individuals may be more sensitive to the behavior of others and perceive these as discrimination [ 84 ]. In the case of both wealth and education, previous studies indicate that people with higher socioeconomic status have a higher likelihood for mental health problems such as anxiety or depression thus making them more vulnerable to perceive and internalize stigma [ 85 , 86 , 87 ]. There is a dearth in literature on the effect of health insurance on perceptions and experiences of stigmatization in disease. Kagaigai and Greperrud [ 88 ] in a study involving voluntary health insurance, however, found a strong relationship between risk aversion and insurance enrolment. This might have aggravated the already existing perceptions of stigma experienced by people in higher socioeconomic status. In the case of this analysis, risk aversion may be related to the risk of psychosocial and mental costs of stigmatization associated with having a family member diagnosed or isolated in a facility [ 89 , 90 ].

Results of the second level of analysis suggest that, in terms of financial risk protection, Philhealth alone offers inadequate support to close wealth-based gaps in health behavior and access to information. However, beyond this, results may provide a peak into the role health insurance may play in levelling the playing field in terms of access to information and engaging in favorable health behavior. Findings may provide evidence that having a certain level of health insurance literacy may either be a valuable resource in healthcare navigation or an indicator of having health-related behaviors and skills essential in maximizing resource utilization to gain health advantage. In general, results of this study add to the literature on the importance of addressing socioeconomic inequalities to address health problems especially in times of public health emergencies. It also offers insights on the role of health insurance in closing these gaps. There is however, a need to investigate the dynamics of insurance and stigmatization. Further research can focus on the pathways by which different types of health insurance or social policies may be used to leverage responses to epidemics and other natural disasters.

Some limitations should be considered. First, threats to accuracy and measurement exist as data may be subject to errors in recall and social desirability bias. The survey, being done in a way that ensures confidentiality of responses, may alleviate desirability bias concerns. Second, nonresponse to the outcome “uptake of free preventive services” may potentially have resulted to selection bias due to imbalances in the characteristics of responding and nonresponding individuals. Resulting effect estimates and interpretations should be taken with a grain of salt. Third, residual confounding is present due to the exclusion of some important variables. These variables may include incidence or prevalence of COVID-19 in the localities and information on other lifestyle factors or health-related behavior. Fourth, provincial differences may be a more significant determinant of macro-level socioeconomic status as “within-region” differences may still vary greatly, nevertheless, weighted regional estimates may still determine area-specific differences to some extent. Fifth, household wealth may seem to be a less accurate measure of one’s ability-to-pay however, studies have shown that the DHS wealth index is similar to other indicators of socioeconomic status and is adequate in the assessment of “absolute economic status” [ 51 , 91 ]. Lastly, due to the cross-sectional nature of the study, associations found in the study do not assume causality.

Three years after the pandemic emerged, countries have started to loosen restrictions, but the world’s experience has given important lessons in building resilience against public health emergencies. This paper shows that individual responses differ by socioeconomic determinant, with socioeconomically disadvantaged population exhibiting less favorable health behavior and experiencing less access to information pertaining to the pandemic. Furthermore, results show empirical evidence of a possible modification of health insurance on the effect of socioeconomic determinants on these outcomes. This may provide proof that health insurance can grant added benefit maybe in the form of increased health literacy or endowment of attributes that increase proficiency in navigating through the healthcare system. In light of the results, the study highlights that preparedness and responsiveness of the healthcare system are key components of an effective response to public health crises and emergencies. It is, therefore, imperative that targeted efforts be maximized by utilizing existing strategies and mechanisms to reach the marginalized and disadvantaged segments of the population. Mitigation of the immediate and long-term effects of such crises requires looking into contextual factors that might affect the equitable distribution of resources and response to healthcare and social needs.

Data availability

The dataset supporting the conclusions of this article is available in the DHS repository, www.dhsprogram.com .

Abbreviations

Coronavirus disease 2019

Confidence interval

Demographic and Health Survey

Out-of-pocket

Percentage points

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2

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Acknowledgements

Many thanks to Miguel Antonio Estrada and Kent Jason Cheng for their unending support. Appreciation is also extended to the DHS Program by the USAID for granting access to the datasets.

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Estrada, J.A.G. Unraveling socioeconomic determinants of health-related behavior, reception of information, and perceptions on disease disclosure at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic: did health insurance curb the disparities in the Philippines?. BMC Public Health 24 , 767 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-18264-9

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  • Socioeconomic inequalities
  • Health insurance
  • Public health emergency
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  • Access to information
  • Developing countries

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