— Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made a directive to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to address the shortage of nurses due to migration. So, it is essential to take a closer look at nurses’ salaries and see if it’s still viable to stay in the country or if is it time to explore outside.
The average salary of nurses in the Philippines varies depending on their experience and the healthcare institutions they work for. According to Payscale, the average base salary for a Registered Nurse (RN) in the Philippines is ₱174,589 per year. On the other hand, Indeed reports that the average monthly salary for a nurse is ₱21,973, while a registered nurse earns an average of ₱32,215 per month.
Members of the Filipino Nurses United (FNU) have been pushing for a PHP 50,000 entry-level salary for nurses and massive hiring to address understaffing, among others.
Salary Standardization Law and Nurses Salary Grades
The Salary Standardization Law (SSL) is a significant factor that affects the salary of government employees, including registered nurses in the Philippines. The SSL aims to increase the salaries of these employees in four tranches, starting from 2020 up to 2023.
In 2023, the salary grades for registered nurses (RNs) working in public hospitals in the Philippines ranged from 15 to 24. Each salary grade corresponds to a specific nurse position, such as Nurse I, Nurse II, and so on.
| Rank | Base Salary 2023 | Salary Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse I | 36,619 | SG 15 |
| Nurse II | 39,672 | SG 16 |
| Nurse III | 43,030 | SG 17 |
| Nurse IV | 51,357 | SG 19 |
| Nurse V | 57,347 | SG 20 |
| Nurse VI | 71,511 | SG 22 |
| Nurse VII | 90,078 | SG 24 |
These salary adjustments aim to provide fair and competitive compensation for registered nurses employed in the public sector. It is important to recognize the contributions of these healthcare professionals and ensure that they are adequately compensated for their vital services.
Government hospitals vs private hospitals
In the Philippines, the healthcare system consists of both government and private hospitals. According to the Department of Health (DOH), 60% of hospitals in the country are private, while the remaining 40% are public. This difference in ownership leads to various implications for healthcare workers, specifically in terms of salary.
In government or public hospitals, nurses typically receive higher salaries than their counterparts in private hospitals. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) states that an entry-level registered nurse’s salary in a small private hospital ranges from PHP 8,000 to PHP 13,500 per month while an entry-level nurse in public hospitals earns PHP 36,619. This significant pay difference is attributed to the implementation of a salary standardization law, mandating a specific pay grade for government employees, including healthcare workers.
However, these private hospitals provide other advantages, such as workplace proximity and flexible working hours, which can play a significant role when choosing an employment opportunity.
Despite the salary gap, both government and private hospitals offer valuable experience for healthcare workers. In public hospitals, nurses are exposed to a diverse patient population, allowing for a deeper understanding of community health needs. Meanwhile, private hospitals often provide specialized training in specific areas of healthcare.
Regional differences in nurses salaries
The salaries of nurses in the Philippines vary significantly based on the city in which they are employed. This section will focus on key regional differences in nurses’ salaries for the following cities: Manila, Makati, Taguig, Pasay, Quezon City, and Cebu City.
Manila
In the capital city of Manila, the estimated total pay for a nurse is ₱80,075 per month, with an average salary of ₱20,000 per month. Factors such as work experience, skills, and hospital location may impact the salary range in this highly urbanized area.
Makati
Makati is a highly developed business city, which may contribute to potentially higher salaries for nurses. Due to the lack of specific data for Makati, it is reasonable to assume that the salaries might be similar to those in Manila or slightly higher considering the standard of living.
Taguig
Located near the Manila Bay, Taguig is another prominent city in the region. As with Makati, available data on nurses’ salaries in Taguig is limited. However, considering its proximity to Manila and Makati, it is possible that nurses’ salaries in this city are comparable to those in other nearby urban areas.
Pasay
Pasay is a city known for its entertainment and leisure establishments. While there are limited details on the salaries of nurses working in Pasay, considering its metropolitan nature, we can expect that the salaries may resemble those in Manila and Makati.
Quezon City
As one of the largest cities by population in the Philippines, Quezon City is a hub of economic activity. Salaries for nurses in Quezon City may vary depending on the work experience and hospital, but the range is likely to be in line with the neighboring cities such as Manila, Makati, and Taguig.
Cebu City
Cebu City is a bustling metropolitan area located within the province of Cebu. The average salary for a nurse in Cebu City might be slightly lower compared to the cities in Luzon due to the lower cost of living and lesser competition among the healthcare providers.
The salaries of nurses in these cities may differ due to various factors such as cost of living, demand for their services, and the type of institutions they work in. Nonetheless, the information provided here offers a general guide for those interested in the nursing profession and regional differences in salaries within the Philippines.
Comparison of nurses salaries by specialization
When comparing nursing professions, positions with higher responsibilities and specialization tend to have increased pay. For example, Nurse Managers and Supervisors generally earn between PHP 35,000 and PHP 50,000 per month as they are responsible for overseeing other nurses and managing the healthcare facility.
Nursing educators and clinical instructors in the Philippines often earn a monthly salary within the range of PHP 25,000 to PHP 45,000. These professionals are responsible for educating students and nurses in theoretical and clinical nursing practices.
In terms of nursing specialties, certain fields with higher demand and requirements provide better compensation. For instance, Critical Care Nurses and Emergency Room Nurses typically earn between PHP 30,000 and PHP 60,000 per month due to the nature of their work, which entails handling high-pressure and life-threatening situations.
In other words, nurses in the Philippines can expect variations in their salaries depending on factors such as their area of specialization. As the demand for quality healthcare services grows in the country, the nursing profession continues to evolve, offering nurses the opportunity to excel in their careers and achieve financial growth.
Impact of education and license
In the Philippines, the education and licensure of nurses play a significant role in determining their salaries as they progress through their careers. Generally, pursuing higher levels of education and holding a valid license contribute to increased income opportunities for registered nurses.
The foundation of a nursing career in the Philippines starts with obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Upon completing this degree, aspiring nurses must pass the Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE) to become licensed professionals. Higher salaries are typically associated with those who have successfully passed the PNLE, as it certifies their competence to practice nursing in the country.
One notable trend regarding salaries involves registered nurses pursuing graduate-level education. Nurses with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctoral degree in Nursing (Ph.D. or DNP) often see a substantial increase in their earning potential. They are eligible for specialized roles, such as nurse administrators, nurse educators, and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), which come with higher compensation rates.
Additionally, certain specializations within nursing can contribute to a higher salary. For instance, certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) and nurse practitioners usually earn more than general registered nurses. Nurses with certifications in critical care, oncology, or geriatrics may also have increased earning potential due to their specialized skills and knowledge in these areas.
Experience and tenure in the nursing field are other factors that can positively impact salary levels. As nurses gain more years of practice and acquire additional skills, it is common for their salaries to grow in tandem with their professional expertise.
The combination of education, licensure, and specialization can significantly impact the salaries of nurses in the Philippines. Nurses with higher degrees, valid licenses, and specialized certifications tend to earn more than their counterparts who possess only a BSN degree and a general nursing license.
Salary of Filipino nurses working abroad
Saudi Arabia
Filipino nurses are known for their dedication, competence, and professionalism, making them highly sought-after internationally. One popular destination for Filipino nurses seeking better pay and career opportunities is Saudi Arabia.
In Saudi Arabia, Filipino nurses can expect to earn a significantly higher salary compared to their earnings in the Philippines. While salaries may vary depending on factors like job function, experience, and employer, the average monthly salary for a registered nurse in Saudi Arabia ranges from SAR 4,500 to SAR 9,000 (approximately PHP 61,000 to PHP 122,000).
Aside from the competitive salary, Filipino nurses working in Saudi Arabia can also enjoy a range of benefits, such as free accommodation, transportation, and medical insurance provided by their employer. Moreover, nursing positions in Saudi Arabia often come with tax-free salaries, allowing Filipino nurses to save and repatriate more funds to their families back home.
This gives Filipino nurses both financial and professional growth opportunities. The higher salary, tax-free benefits, and additional provisions make it an attractive destination for nurses from the Philippines seeking better career prospects and financial security.
Other initiatives for nurses
The Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines has been working diligently to address the issue of low pay for health workers, including nurses. Recognizing that adequate compensation is crucial for retaining skilled professionals in the healthcare industry, the DOH has been pushing for salary standards and better benefits to keep health workers at home.
In an effort to improve salary structures, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) issued Budget Circular No. 2021-2. This directive provides guidelines on upgrading the salary grade (SG) of Nurse II positions from SG-15 to SG-16, as well as the retention of position attributes of previous Nurse III to Nurse VII with their corresponding SG.
In addition to the changes in salary grades, Senators have recommended that the DOH should prioritize improving healthcare workers’ salaries before hiring unlicensed or board-eligible nurses. This call to action acknowledges that competitive pay scales are essential for attracting and retaining competent nursing professionals in the Philippines.
Despite progress in elevating pay standards, there remains a disparity in the compensation levels between healthcare workers in private and government-run institutions.
Final thoughts
Despite the critical role they play, nurses in the Philippines face challenges such as low pay and high risk on the job. Collectively recognizing and addressing these issues is essential for maintaining a sustainable healthcare system and ensuring the well-being of both nurses and patients in the country.
While government hospitals generally offer higher salaries for nurses in the Philippines, private institutions have their unique advantages that might appeal to healthcare workers depending on their specific goals and preferences.
References
- Department of Budget and Management. (2022). Budget Circular Volume I. Retrieved from https://www.dbm.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/Issuances/2022/Budget-Circular/VOLUME-I.pdf
- Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. (2019). Republic Act No. 11466. Retrieved from https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/downloads/2019/12dec/20200108-RA-11466-RRD.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average monthly income for nurses in the Philippines?
The average monthly income for a registered nurse in the Philippines is ₱32,172, while a general nurse can expect to earn an average of ₱21,985 per month. These figures vary depending on factors such as experience and the specific institutions where nurses work.
How do the salaries of nurses in the Philippines compare to other professions?
The salaries of nurses in the Philippines tend to be lower compared to some other professions, especially when considering the amount of responsibility and risk that comes with their work. It is important to note that the cost of living in the Philippines is generally lower, so these numbers should be considered within the context of the local economy and job market.
Are there any salary differences between government and private hospital for nurses?
Government hospitals usually offer higher salaries compared to private hospitals, along with more stable benefits and opportunities for career growth. Private hospitals, on the other hand, may offer lower salaries and less predictable benefits. However, depending on the specific institution, there may be exceptions to this trend.
Is there a yearly salary increase for nurses in the Philippines?
Yearly salary increases for nurses in the Philippines may depend on factors such as performance, experience, or applicable laws. Some institutions may have established policies for scheduled salary increases, while others may follow government regulations for a mandated yearly increase.
What benefits can nurses in the Philippines expect in addition to their salary?
Nurses in the Philippines can often expect benefits such as health insurance coverage, paid time off, and retirement plans. Government-employed nurses are likely to enjoy more comprehensive benefits, while those in private hospitals may have access to varying types and levels of benefits depending on the specific hospital.
How has the demand for nurses affected the salaries in the Philippines?
As the demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to increase, salaries for nurses in the Philippines may experience upward pressure. With more job opportunities available, both locally and abroad, nurses are likely to see improvements in their compensation packages, reflecting the high-value contributions they make to the healthcare industry.
What is the average monthly income for nurses in the Philippines?
The average monthly income for a registered nurse in the Philippines is ₱32,172, while a general nurse can expect to earn an average of ₱21,985 per month. These figures vary depending on factors such as experience and the specific institutions where nurses work.
