Making yourself a doctor in the Philippines is a noble and highly respected career, but it is also one of the most demanding. The most common questions asked by aspiring doctors and even professionals who work considering relocation or specialization is: How much do doctors really earn in the Philippines a month?
In this guide, we will break the average monthly salaries for doctors at different stages of their careers, including government and private sectors, by specialization and location. We will also lead you to factors that affect gains and answer common questions that people have about this vital profession.
Average Monthly Salary of Doctors
Doctor salaries in the Philippines vary significantly depending on their level of experience, employment setting (government vs. private), specialization, and location.
Here’s a general monthly salary range as of 2025:
| Level/Type of Doctor | Average Monthly Salary (PHP) |
|---|---|
| Medical Intern (Hospital-based) | ₱12,000 – ₱18,000 |
| Resident Doctor (Public Hospital) | ₱45,000 – ₱70,000 |
| Resident Doctor (Private Hospital) | ₱60,000 – ₱100,000 |
| General Practitioner (GP) | ₱50,000 – ₱120,000 |
| Specialist (Cardiologist, etc.) | ₱100,000 – ₱250,000+ |
| Surgeon (Highly Experienced) | ₱150,000 – ₱400,000+ |
These figures represent gross monthly income and do not yet deduct taxes, association dues, or professional expenses.
Factors That Affect Doctor’s Salary
While it’s tempting to look at averages, your monthly earnings as a doctor depend on several important variables:
1. Type of Facility
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Public hospitals pay based on salary grades set by the government. Entry-level physicians (Salary Grade 21) earn about ₱63,997/month under the 2024 salary standardization law.
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Private hospitals may pay more, especially if they’re in urban centers or part of high-end medical networks.
2. Specialization
Specialists earn significantly more than general practitioners. For example:
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Anesthesiologists: ₱120,000–₱250,000/month
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Pediatricians: ₱80,000–₱150,000/month
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Dermatologists: ₱150,000–₱300,000+/month in private clinics
3. Years of Experience
Newly licensed physicians earn much less than those with a decade or more of experience. Seniority, board certifications, and additional training all lead to higher earning potential. You may visit and understand Salary Grade
4. Location
Doctors in Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao generally earn higher than their counterparts in rural areas. However, cost of living is also higher in urban centers.
How a Doctor’s Career Progresses?
Understanding how a medical career progresses in the Philippines can help you estimate your future income. Here’s a general path most doctors take:
Step 1: Medical School (4–5 years)
You won’t earn yet during this period, but expect expenses of ₱100,000 to ₱250,000 per year, depending on the school.
Step 2: Post-Graduate Internship
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Duration: 1 year
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Pay: ₱12,000–₱18,000/month (allowance-based)
Step 3: Physician Licensure Exam
Once you pass the Philippine Physician Licensure Examination, you become a licensed doctor.
Step 4: Residency Training
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Duration: 3–6 years depending on specialization
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Pay: ₱45,000–₱100,000/month
Step 5: Fellowship (Optional)
For subspecialties like pediatric surgery or oncology.
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Pay: Varies but generally lower due to training status
Step 6: Consultant or Attending Physician
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Once certified, you can practice privately or work as a hospital consultant.
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Pay: ₱150,000 to ₱400,000+/month, depending on patient load and reputation
Additional Earning Sources for Filipino Doctors
Many doctors earn income outside of hospital work. These include:
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Clinic consultations
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Telemedicine (e.g., KonsultaMD, HealthNow): ₱500–₱1,500 per consult
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Teaching in universities: ₱30,000–₱80,000/month
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Medical missions or partnerships with NGOs
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Corporate HMO affiliations
How much is the salary of a government doctor in the Philippines?
Government doctors generally earn ₱63,000–₱85,000/month, depending on their Salary Grade (SG) and tenure. For example, an SG 23 position pays around ₱76,000 monthly under the 2024 salary standardization.
What’s the highest-paid medical specialization in the Philippines?
Surgeons and anesthesiologists tend to be among the highest-paid, earning ₱250,000–₱400,000/month or more with experience.
Do doctors get bonuses or benefits in the Philippines?
Yes. Government-employed doctors receive 13th-month pay, hazard pay, clothing and transportation allowances, and sometimes performance-based bonuses. Private hospitals may also offer incentives. And this profession is one of the Highest Paying Jobs.
Can doctors earn more through private practice?
Yes. Private practice allows doctors to set consultation fees and build a patient base. Some well-known specialists earn ₱500,000+ per month, especially those with multiple clinic affiliations.
Is being a doctor financially worth it in the Philippines?
Although it may take time to return the investment due to long education, doctors enjoy an increase in financial awards with work, social respect and experience and expertise.
Career in the Philippines as a doctor is not just about financial benefits; it is a commitment to serve people’s lives and health. Although early years can bring minor benefits, especially for experts or professional doctors, long -lengthy capacity is important.
If you are emotional about the medicine, the number suggests that your dedication can become a rewarded and durable support. As the health sector develops and expands digital health, the Philippines is now more than ever before to enrich both professional and economically.
