Hiring help at home in the Philippines: kasambahay or part-time cleaner?
The difference between a kasambahay and on-call help, what the 2026 minimum wage in Metro Manila is, and how to find someone for cleaning, laundry or babysitting near you.
Need help with cleaning, laundry or looking after the kids? In the Philippines you have two main options: hiring a kasambahay, or booking someone on-call when you need them. Here is how they differ, and what to keep in mind.
Kasambahay: regular help in your home
A kasambahay works in your household on a regular basis, as a live-in or full-time helper. The work is covered by the Kasambahay Law (Republic Act No. 10361), which gives your helper rights such as a written contract, a minimum wage, rest days and social benefits.
Minimum wage in Metro Manila: since 7 February 2026 the minimum is ₱7,800 per month (Wage Order NCR-DW-06), up from ₱7,000. Other regions have their own minimum rates.
On top of the salary, the employer usually also pays for:
- meals and decent lodging for a live-in helper
- SSS, PhilHealth and Pag-IBIG contributions
- 13th month pay
The rules have details that depend on your situation, so check the current requirements with DOLE and your regional wage board before you hire.
On-call help: when you only need it now and then
If you only need help once a week, or for one big job, booking someone on-call is often simpler:
- Deep cleaning before a move or after a renovation
- Laundry picked up and returned
- Babysitting for an evening
- Small repairs or furniture assembly
Prices vary a lot with the city, the size of your home and the job, so compare a few offers. Agree on the price, what is included and how long it takes before the work starts.
How to find help on myservice.is
- Browse what people offer near you, for example in Cleaning, Laundry & ironing or Babysitting.
- Or post what you need, for example "Deep clean of a 2-bedroom condo, Saturday, Makati", and add the price you will pay. It takes a minute in the app.
- Share your post with friends and family on Messenger or Facebook. A recommendation from someone you trust is the best way to find good help.
Your exact address is never shown on myservice.is. People only see the area.