Electricity and sockets
You will need an adapter for Types A, B and C. Plugs from the UK do not fit the sockets in the Philippines.
Sockets at the destination
Before you pack: the Philippines uses Types A, B and C, 230 V and 60 Hz. 230 V means no voltage converter – only the plug shape matters. The grid runs at 60 Hz. Chargers do not care; mains-synchronised clocks and simple motors do.
You will find identical sockets in Laos and Viet Nam. Watch out when moving on: Hong Kong, Bahrain and India use a completely different system. Across Asia this setup is fairly rare: 3 of 50 countries.
Protective earth
Earthed sockets (Type B) and unearthed ones (Types A and C) exist side by side. For metal-bodied appliances the protective-earth path is what matters.
Quick check by home country
| From the UK | adapter for Types A, B and C | Check route → |
|---|---|---|
| From the US | usually no adapter | Check route → |
Frequency is 60 Hz; timers and simple motors run differently. Check your own device →
The same sockets are used further afield: Bolivia and Peru.
Common questions
Yes, you need an adapter for Types A, B and C.
The records list Types A, B and C; the grid supplies 230 V at 60 Hz.
No. At 230 V the supply matches UK and European appliances.
An adapter changes the plug shape only, not voltage or frequency. the Philippines supplies 230 V at 60 Hz – check the rating plate on your device. How to read a rating plate →
If a socket gets hot, crackles or smells burnt, unplug the device straight away.
Data for the Philippines from IEC World Plugs and IEC TR 60083. Sources and method →