Coworking Spaces Manila Honest Review Philippines
Exploring coworking spaces manila honest review in the Philippines. Practical tips, personal insights, and expert advice for expats.
Community article, editorially reviewed. Opinions are the author's, not ArchipelagoExpat's.
The shortlist
Manila has a booming coworking scene, especially in BGC and Makati. I tested 8 spaces over 3 months as a remote software developer.
Best overall: Common Ground BGC
₱4,500/month for a hot desk. Fast internet (300 Mbps), free coffee, good AC, and a community of tech workers. The noise level is manageable with headphones.
Best budget: A Space Makati
₱2,500/month. Slower internet (50-100 Mbps) but perfectly adequate for video calls. The community skews creative — designers, writers, startup founders.
Best premium: WeWork BGC
₱12,000/month. Corporate feel but excellent infrastructure. Best for client meetings. Phone booths are everywhere.
Spaces to avoid
- Regus Makati: Overpriced for what you get, aggressive sales calls after touring
- Some "free" co-working in cafés: WiFi unreliable, power outages common
Tips
- Most spaces offer free trial days — test before committing
- Ask about power backup (UPS/generator) — brownouts happen
- BGC has better infrastructure than Makati overall
Archipelago Team
TrustedThe Archipelago Expat editorial team.
Related articles
ArticlesPhilippine Fiesta Calendar: Cultural Events Worth Planning Around
The major Philippine fiestas explained: Sinulog, Ati-Atihan, Dinagyang, Panagbenga and more - dates, what actually happens, and how to attend without suffering.
Living on a Filipino Island: The Honest Pros and Cons
Island life in the Philippines without the Instagram filter: real advantages (cost, community, nature) and real costs (typhoons, logistics, healthcare) weighed up.
Weekend Trips from Cebu: 5 Destinations Under 3 Hours
Five weekend escapes from Cebu City reachable in under three hours: Moalboal, Oslob, Bantayan's edge, Bogo and the Camotes ferry - with costs and sample plans.