What is the daily minimum wage rate for security guards in Metro Manila as of 2026?

The Department of Labor and Employment sets the minimum wage for security guards in the National Capital Region at PHP 645 per day effective January 1, 2026. This rate includes the PHP 45 cost-of-living allowance and applies to an 8-hour workday. Night shift differential adds 10% to the hourly rate for work between 10 PM and 6 AM. Source: Department of Labor and Employment (https://www.dole.gov.ph/)

What education and age requirements must I meet to apply for a security guard position in the Philippines?

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and not more than 35 years old at the time of hiring per Department of Labor and Employment guidelines. A high school diploma or equivalent is required along with completion of a 6-day pre-licensing training course. No prior experience is mandated for entry-level positions. Source: Department of Labor and Employment (https://www.dole.gov.ph/)

Which documents are required when applying for security guard jobs through DOLE-accredited agencies?

Job seekers must submit a valid government-issued ID, NBI clearance issued within the last 6 months, and a barangay clearance. Additional requirements include the Security Guard License from SOSIA and a medical certificate from a DOLE-accredited clinic dated within 3 months. Source: Department of Labor and Employment (https://www.dole.gov.ph/)

How many hours per week can security guards legally work and what overtime rate applies in 2026?

Security guards are limited to a maximum of 48 hours per week under Department of Labor and Employment rules. Overtime beyond 8 hours daily is paid at 125% of the regular hourly rate or PHP 100.78 per hour based on the PHP 645 daily minimum. Rest days must be provided at least once every 7 days. Source: Department of Labor and Employment (https://www.dole.gov.ph/)

What mandatory benefits and contributions apply to security guard employment in the Philippines?

Employers must remit monthly contributions of PHP 1,200 total for SSS, PHP 400 for PhilHealth, and PHP 200 for Pag-IBIG as of 2026. Security guards are entitled to 13th-month pay equivalent to one month’s salary paid by December 24. Service incentive leave of 5 days with pay is granted after 1 year of service. Source: Department of Labor and Employment (https://www.dole.gov.ph/)

How much income tax will be deducted from a security guard earning the minimum wage in 2026?

Security guards earning PHP 645 daily or PHP 16,770 monthly fall below the PHP 20,833 monthly tax threshold and pay zero income tax under the 2026 BIR withholding tables. Only SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG contributions totaling PHP 1,800 monthly are deducted. Annual reconciliation occurs via BIR Form 2316 issued by the employer. Source: Department of Labor and Employment (https://www.dole.gov.ph/)

What license must security guards obtain and how often is it renewed?

All security guards require a License to Exercise Security Profession issued by the PNP Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies valid for 2 years. Renewal costs PHP 300 and requires completion of a 4-hour refresher seminar. The license must be carried during duty per DOLE Department Order 150-16. Source: Department of Labor and Employment (https://www.dole.gov.ph/)

Security Guard Jobs Philippines: Real Pay and Tips

Getting Into Security Work Here

From what I've seen security guard jobs in the Philippines pop up all the time if you know where to look. Thing is not everyone sticks around because the hours can be brutal.

Pay isn't amazing at first but it beats nothing and some places throw in free meals or transport. I'd say start with the basic requirements if you're serious.

What do you actually need

Most companies want you at least 18. High school diploma helps but isn't always a deal breaker. Height minimums still exist in some firms though they relax it sometimes.

Infographic: Security Guard Jobs in Philippines

Training is key. You gotta finish that 56-hour security course from a TESDA accredited spot. After that comes the license from the PNP. Skip that and you're wasting time.

Clear NBI and police records
Physical fitness test
Drug test results
Valid ID copies ready

Real talk some agencies hire fast when they lose people mid-month. That's when you jump in.

Daily Life on the Job

Shifts run eight to twelve hours usually. Standing a lot. Watching cameras. Checking IDs at entrances. Boring stretches mixed with sudden stuff like handling rowdy visitors.

Not gonna lie the night shifts mess with your sleep at first. But you get used to it after a couple weeks. Some guards rotate every month which helps.

In my experience bigger malls pay a bit more than small offices but the pressure feels higher too.

Where to apply right now

Check online job sites for postings in Manila Cebu and Davao. Local agencies post often too. Walk-ins still work at some compounds if you show up neat and early.

Look for firms connected to banks or hospitals. Those tend to have steadier contracts and slightly better benefits like overtime pay.

Here's the thing references from past security work count big. Even if it was just event guarding for a weekend.

Salary talks start around 12k to 18k pesos depending on location and experience. Night differentials add a little extra. Not life changing but regular.