Need to send money to the Philippines in 2025? With so many platforms promising speed and savings, how do you know which one actually delivers?
This guide reveals the smartest options, and the hidden traps most people miss. Whether you prioritise low fees or fast delivery, making the right choice can mean more pesos in your recipient’s hands.
Let’s take a closer look.
What Makes a Good Money Transfer Service in 2025?
Before choosing a service, it’s essential to look beyond just fees. Here’s what really matters:
- Speed of delivery: Some services deliver in minutes, others take 1–3 business days.
- Transparent pricing: Avoid platforms that promise “no fees” but take a big cut in the exchange rate.
- Payout methods: Bank deposit, cash pickup, and mobile wallets (like GCash) are all widely used in the Philippines.
- Coverage and reliability: Not all services work in every province. Make sure the one you choose covers your recipient’s area.
- Customer service: When things go wrong, having real support matters, especially across time zones.
Most Popular Platforms to Send Money to the Philippines (2025)
See how Wise works in the Philippines
1. Wise
Wise is known for low fees and using the real mid-market exchange rate — the same one you see on Google. It’s ideal for direct bank transfers and very transparent about what you pay.
- Delivery time: 1–2 business days on average
- Fees: Low, upfront, and clearly shown
- Best for: Bank-to-bank transfers
2. Remitly
Remitly offers both Economy and Express delivery. Economy is cheaper but slower, while Express costs more but delivers funds within minutes. They also have regular promo codes.
- Delivery time: Minutes (Express) or 3–5 days (Economy)
- Fees: Vary based on method, but visible upfront
- Payout options: Bank deposit, cash pickup, mobile wallets like GCash
Why many expats choose Remitly
3. Western Union
Still one of the most accessible platforms, especially for recipients in rural areas. Offers both online and in-person transfers with cash pickup at thousands of locations.
- Delivery time: Minutes to a few hours
- Fees: Higher than Wise or Remitly
- Best for: Recipients without bank accounts
Comparison Table: Top Services
| Platform | Transfer Speed | Fees | Delivery Options | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | 1–2 business days | Low | Bank deposits | Transparent pricing |
| Remitly | Minutes to 5 days | Medium | Bank, mobile wallet, cash pickup | Fast delivery, flexibility |
| Western Union | Minutes to few hours | High | Cash pickup, bank, in-person | Rural accessibility, cash pickup |
Western Union: Is it still worth it in 2025?
Extra Tips to Get More Out of Your Transfer
If you send money regularly, you can save significantly by following these tips:
- Send larger amounts less often – It reduces percentage-based fees.
- Avoid weekends and late hours – Some platforms delay processing or use unfavourable exchange rates during off-peak hours.
- Sign up for multiple platforms – You’ll get access to more first-time promotions and be able to compare rates before each transfer.
- Track promotions – Some services offer seasonal or referral bonuses, which you can use to cover fees.
What to Avoid When Sending Money
- Apps with unclear exchange rates or no upfront fee display
- Unregulated services that don’t follow local financial laws
- Transfers without receipts or confirmation tracking
Make sure to double-check the recipient’s name and account details before confirming your transfer. Even small errors can delay the payment or result in a failed transaction.
Make Every Peso Count
In 2025, sending money to the Philippines isn’t just about convenience, it’s about maximising value. With rising fees and fluctuating rates, the smartest senders are those who compare, test, and adapt.
Don’t stick to just one provider blindly. What works for one situation might not be ideal for the next.
Start with a small test on a trusted platform, compare actual received amounts, and stay alert for promo rates. A thoughtful approach can ensure more of your money lands where it matters most.
👉 Ready to see how much further your money can go? Visit Wise now and explore your real savings today.
