Gold Price Today in Philippines - Live 24K & 22K Rates (October 2025)

Gold Rate Today in Major Philippine Cities

Gold prices in the Philippines today stand at ₱8,429.81 per gram for 24-karat gold, ₱7,727.33 per gram for 22-karat gold, and ₱6,322.36 per gram for 18-karat gold. These rates apply across major cities including Manila, Quezon City, Makati, Cebu City, and Davao City, with minor variations based on local jeweler margins and making charges. For the most current rates and live updates, visit the Philippines gold price tracker.

The current price represents a +0.01% increase compared to yesterday's closing rates, reflecting the ongoing strength in international gold markets. Filipino investors and jewelry buyers are closely monitoring these rates as gold remains a preferred store of value during economic uncertainty.

Understanding 24K, 22K, and 18K Gold Prices in the Philippines

The Philippine gold market recognizes three primary gold purity standards, each serving different purposes and price points. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed investment and jewelry purchase decisions.

24 Karat Gold (99.9% Pure) is the purest form of gold available commercially in the Philippines. At ₱8,429.81 per gram today, it represents the benchmark price for all gold transactions. This purity is preferred for:

• Investment purposes: Gold coins, bars, and bullion from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) or authorized dealers
• Wealth storage: Physical gold as a hedge against peso depreciation
• Financial security: Emergency funds in tangible form during economic uncertainty
• Gold Savings Accounts: Programs offered by major banks like BDO and BPI

22 Karat Gold (91.6% Pure) is priced at ₱7,727.33 per gram today, representing a 8.3% discount compared to 24K. This alloy contains 91.6% pure gold mixed with 8.4% other metals (typically copper or silver) to increase durability. In the Philippines, 22K gold is commonly used for:

• Traditional Filipino jewelry: Wedding rings, engagement rings, and family heirloom pieces
• Religious items: Crosses, medallions, and santo niño pendants
• Investment jewelry: Balance between purity and wearability
• Resale value: Higher market acceptance compared to lower karats

18 Karat Gold (75% Pure) costs ₱6,322.36 per gram today, making it 25% cheaper than 24K gold. With only 75% gold content, this alloy offers maximum durability and is ideal for:

• Daily-wear jewelry: Modern designs, fashion jewelry, and contemporary pieces
• Intricate designs: Delicate patterns that require stronger metal structure
• Budget-conscious buyers: Lower price point for quality gold jewelry
• International standards: Widely accepted in Western markets

Gold Price Movement in the Philippines - Last 7 Days

Gold prices in the Philippines have shown notable volatility over the past week, influenced by both international gold markets and local peso exchange rate fluctuations. The 24-karat gold price has traded in a range of ₱8,285 to ₱8,495 per gram, representing approximately 2.5% price movement within seven days.

Key factors driving recent price changes include:

• US Federal Reserve Policy: Expectations of interest rate adjustments have impacted global gold demand. Lower interest rates typically strengthen gold prices as the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets decreases.
• Philippine Peso Performance: The PHP/USD exchange rate directly affects local gold prices. Recent peso weakness against the dollar (trading around PHP 56-57 per USD) has pushed local gold prices higher even when international prices remain stable.
• BSP Monetary Policy: Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas decisions on interest rates influence domestic gold demand, particularly among Filipino investors seeking inflation hedges.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe continue to support safe-haven demand for gold globally.
• China Gold Demand: As the world's largest gold consumer, Chinese buying patterns significantly impact regional prices including the Philippines.

Filipino gold buyers typically see increased volatility during the first and last week of each month, coinciding with salary payments and spending cycles. Additionally, wedding season (January-May) and Christmas shopping (October-December) create seasonal demand spikes that can add ₱100-200 per gram premium in Metro Manila jewelry districts like Quiapo and Greenhills.

Why Gold Prices Change Daily in the Philippines

Gold prices in the Philippines are not set arbitrarily by local jewelers but are determined by a complex interplay of international and domestic factors that update continuously throughout the trading day.

International Gold Spot Price (Primary Driver)

The London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) sets the global gold spot price twice daily through electronic auctions. This price, quoted in US dollars per troy ounce, serves as the baseline for all gold pricing worldwide. Philippine gold rates are directly derived from this international benchmark through a straightforward calculation:

Philippine Gold Price = (LBMA Spot Price in USD ÷ 31.1035 grams per ounce) × PHP/USD Exchange Rate × (1 + Import Duty 3%) × (1 + Retail Premium 3.5%)

For example, if LBMA gold is $2,050 per ounce and the exchange rate is 56.50 PHP/USD:

• Convert to per gram: $2,050 ÷ 31.1035 = $65.89 per gram
• Convert to pesos: $65.89 × 56.50 = ₱3,723
• Add 3% import duty: ₱3,723 × 1.03 = ₱3,835
• Add 3.5% retail premium: ₱3,835 × 1.035 = ₱3,969 (approximate base wholesale price)

Currency Exchange Rate Impact

The PHP/USD exchange rate is the second most critical factor affecting Philippine gold prices. Even when international gold prices remain stable, peso depreciation automatically increases local gold costs. This creates a unique dynamic where Filipino gold investors benefit from currency hedging – when the peso weakens, gold holdings increase in peso value regardless of international gold performance.

Historical perspective: In 2018, when the peso traded around 52-53 per dollar, 24K gold was approximately ₱2,300-2,500 per gram. Today at 56-57 per dollar, the same international gold price translates to ₱8,400+ per gram, demonstrating the significant currency impact.

Import Duties and Taxes

The Philippines imposes a 3% import duty on gold jewelry and 3% on raw gold bullion. While this is relatively modest compared to India's 15.5% total tax burden, it still adds approximately ₱245 per gram to the final retail price at current rates. The Bureau of Customs administers these duties, which fund government operations and provide some protection for domestic gold refiners.

Retail Premium and Making Charges

Philippine jewelers add a retail premium of 2-4% above wholesale prices to cover operational costs, profit margins, and inventory risks. In Metro Manila's prime jewelry districts (Makati, BGC, Greenhills), premiums tend toward the higher end due to rent and staffing costs. Provincial jewelers in Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo may offer slightly lower premiums but with less selection.

Making charges for jewelry fabrication are separate from the gold price and typically range from ₱500-3,000 per gram depending on design complexity. Simple gold chains might carry ₱500/gram making charges, while intricate filigree work for wedding jewelry can reach ₱2,500-3,000 per gram in skilled workshops.

International Gold Price vs Philippine Retail Price

A common question among Filipino gold buyers is why local prices appear significantly higher than international spot prices quoted in financial news. Understanding this price structure helps buyers recognize fair market rates and avoid overpaying.

Today's international gold spot price: Approximately $2,050 per troy ounce (31.1 grams) = $65.89 per gram

Today's Philippine 24K gold price: ₱8,429.81 per gram

The difference of approximately $83.48 per gram (₱4,710) between international spot and Philippine retail rates is explained by:

This price structure is actually favorable compared to many Asian neighbors. Singapore and Malaysia have minimal import duties (0-2%) but higher retail premiums (4-5%), while India faces 15.5% combined taxes making Indian gold significantly more expensive than Philippine gold.

Total Cost of Buying Gold Jewelry Today in the Philippines

When purchasing gold jewelry in the Philippines, the final cost comprises several components beyond the base gold price. Understanding this complete cost structure helps buyers budget accurately and compare quotes from different jewelers.

Complete Cost Breakdown for a 10-Gram Gold Necklace (22K)

Key insights for jewelry buyers:

• Making charges are negotiable: In competitive jewelry districts like Greenhills Shopping Center or Makati Jewelry shops, buyers can often negotiate 2-5% discounts on making charges, especially for purchases above ₱50,000.
• Wastage charges vary: Modern jewelers using precision equipment may charge 3-5% wastage, while traditional craftsmen might charge 5-8%. Ask for wastage to be calculated on the actual weight of gold used, not the finished piece weight.
• VAT is mandatory: The 12% Value-Added Tax applies to the total bill including making charges and wastage. Only VAT-registered businesses can issue official receipts required for warranty claims.
• Buy-back policies: Reputable jewelers in the Philippines typically offer 80-85% buy-back value for 22K and 24K jewelry, deducting making charges and applying a small margin. Always clarify buy-back terms before purchase.
• Certification matters: For purchases above ₱100,000, request BSP Gold authenticity certification or third-party hallmarking to ensure purity and facilitate future resale.

Is Today a Good Day to Buy Gold in the Philippines?

With 24-karat gold priced at ₱8,429.81 per gram today (October 16, 2025), Filipino investors and jewelry buyers face the perpetual question: Is this the right time to buy, or should I wait for lower prices?

Short-Term Price Outlook (Next 7-14 Days)

Based on current market conditions, gold prices in the Philippines are likely to trade within a ₱8,300-8,600 per gram range over the next two weeks. Several factors support this assessment:

• US Federal Reserve Meeting (October 31-November 1): Markets are pricing in a potential 25 basis point rate cut, which could provide mild support for gold prices. However, the impact is likely already reflected in current pricing.
• Philippine Peso Stability: The BSP's recent interventions have helped stabilize the peso around 56-57 per dollar. Absent major shocks, this should keep local gold prices relatively steady.
• Technical Support: International gold has strong support at $2,025-2,030 per ounce, suggesting limited downside risk in the near term.
• Seasonal Demand: October-December typically sees increased gold buying in the Philippines for Christmas gifts and wedding season preparations, which could support prices locally even if international markets soften.

Recommendation for different buyer profiles:

• Investment buyers (bars, coins): Current prices are neutral – neither particularly attractive nor overvalued. Consider dollar-cost averaging with monthly purchases of ₱20,000-50,000 rather than lump-sum investment.
• Jewelry buyers for events: If you need jewelry for a wedding or special occasion in the next 1-2 months, today's prices are reasonable. Waiting risks higher prices during peak season.
• Long-term wealth preservation: From a 5-10 year perspective, ₱8,434/gram is likely to be viewed as reasonable entry point given historical peso depreciation trends.
• Speculative traders: The risk-reward at current levels favors waiting for a pullback to ₱8,200-8,250 before initiating new positions. Set alert notifications rather than chasing current prices.

Long-Term Perspective (2025-2030)

Several structural factors suggest that gold prices in Philippine peso terms will trend higher over the coming 3-5 years, making current levels potentially attractive for long-term holders:

• Peso Depreciation Trend: The Philippine peso has depreciated approximately 35% against the USD over the past decade (from 41-42 in 2013 to 56-57 today). Demographic pressures, import dependency, and structural trade deficits suggest this trend will continue at 2-3% annually.
• Global De-dollarization: Central banks worldwide, including BSP, are diversifying reserves away from dollar-heavy portfolios into gold and other assets. This institutional buying provides a floor under prices.
• Philippine Economic Growth: As GDP per capita rises (currently $3,950, targeting $5,000+ by 2028), middle-class demand for gold jewelry and investment increases, supporting local premiums above international prices.
• Supply Constraints: Global gold mine production has plateaued around 3,000-3,100 tons annually, while demand continues growing from Asia, central banks, and investors. This supply-demand imbalance favors higher prices long-term.

Historical context for Filipino gold investors:

• 2015: 24K gold traded around ₱1,800-2,000 per gram (international gold $1,050-1,150/oz, peso 45-46)
• 2020: 24K gold reached ₱3,200-3,400 per gram during pandemic peak (international gold $2,070/oz, peso 50-51)
• 2023: 24K gold averaged ₱3,400-3,600 per gram (international gold $1,900-2,000/oz, peso 55-56)
• 2025: 24K gold now trading ₱8,400-8,500 per gram (international gold $2,050/oz, peso 56-57)

This 370% increase over 10 years (14.5% annual compound growth) significantly outpaced peso inflation (5-6% annually) and bank deposit rates (2-4% annually), demonstrating gold's effectiveness as a wealth preservation tool for Filipino families.

Gold Price Variations Across Philippine Cities and Regions

While the base international gold price is uniform globally, the final retail price Filipino consumers pay can vary by ₱100-300 per gram depending on location, jeweler reputation, and local market dynamics.

Metro Manila - Premium Pricing with Maximum Selection

The National Capital Region commands the highest gold prices in the Philippines but also offers the widest selection of designs, qualities, and payment options. Major jewelry districts include:

• Makati Commercial District: High-end jewelers like Ongpin, Poh Heng, and international brands charge ₱8,500-8,650 per gram for 24K gold. Premium locations, branded packaging, and extensive warranties justify the 2-3% price premium.
• Greenhills Shopping Center: The "tiangge" capital offers competitive pricing at ₱8,400-8,500 per gram with extensive negotiating opportunities. Many sellers offer 1-2% discounts for cash payments above ₱50,000.
• Quiapo Church Area: Traditional pawnshops and small jewelers offer some of Manila's lowest prices at ₱8,350-8,450 per gram, but selection is limited and buyer verification of purity is essential.
• Binondo (Chinatown): Chinese-Filipino jewelers along Ongpin Street price gold at ₱8,380-8,480 per gram with negotiation, specializing in traditional designs and bulk purchases.

Cebu City - Competitive Regional Hub

The Visayas' commercial center offers pricing approximately 1-2% below Metro Manila, with 24K gold typically trading at ₱8,300-8,420 per gram. Key shopping areas include Colon Street's jewelry district and modern malls like Ayala Center Cebu. Cebuano jewelers are known for skilled craftsmanship in intricate designs, making the city popular for custom jewelry orders.

Davao City - Southern Philippines Gateway

Mindanao's largest city prices gold jewelry at ₱8,280-8,400 per gram for 24K quality, benefiting from proximity to potential future domestic gold mining operations. Jewelry shops in Victoria Plaza and Abreeza Mall serve both local buyers and visitors from smaller Mindanao towns where jewelry selection is limited.

Provincial Cities - Lower Prices, Limited Selection

Regional centers like Iloilo City, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, and Zamboanga typically offer 24K gold at ₱8,250-8,380 per gram – approximately 2-3% below Manila pricing. However, the trade-off includes:

• Limited design selections (20-30% of Manila variety)
• Fewer jewelers competing for business
• Less negotiating leverage for buyers
• Potentially longer waiting times for custom orders
• Limited availability of investment-grade bullion products

Smart buying strategy for provincial residents: For small purchases under ₱30,000, buy locally to save transport costs and time. For major purchases above ₱100,000 (wedding jewelry sets, investment bars), consider traveling to Manila or Cebu where savings of ₱2,000-5,000 easily cover travel expenses and provide vastly superior selection.

Gold Investment Options for Filipinos

Filipino investors have multiple pathways to gain gold exposure, each with distinct advantages, costs, and liquidity profiles suited to different financial goals and risk tolerances.

1. Physical Gold Bullion (Bars and Coins)

Availability: Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) no longer mints gold coins, but authorized dealers import PAMP Suisse, Credit Suisse, and Royal Canadian Mint bullion products. Sizes range from 1 gram to 1 kilogram bars.

Current pricing:

• 1-gram PAMP gold bar: ₱8,600-8,750 (₱200-300 premium over spot)
• 5-gram PAMP gold bar: ₱42,500-42,800 (₱160-200 premium per gram)
• 10-gram PAMP gold bar: ₱84,600-85,000 (₱150-180 premium per gram)
• 1 oz (31.1g) Canadian Gold Maple Leaf: ₱263,000-265,000 (₱140-160 premium per gram)

Pros: Physical possession, no counterparty risk, global liquidity, hedges against currency collapse

Cons: Storage/security costs, no passive income, wide bid-ask spreads (8-12% typically), VAT considerations

2. Gold Savings Accounts (Paper Gold)

Major providers: BDO Gold Savings Account, BPI Gold Investment Program, Security Bank Gold Savings

How it works: Banks maintain physical gold reserves and allocate ownership shares to account holders. Investors can buy/sell gold in 1-gram increments without taking physical delivery.

Current pricing (example from BDO):

• Buy price: ₱8,520/gram
• Sell price: ₱8,360/gram
• Spread: 1.9% (lower than physical bullion)
• Minimum: 5 grams (₱42,600)
• Storage: Free (bank-held)

Pros: Lower spreads than physical gold, free storage, convenient online buying/selling, no security concerns

Cons: No physical possession, counterparty risk (bank default), may not be eligible for PDIC insurance coverage

3. Gold Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) via Philippine Stock Exchange

Available options: Filipino investors can access gold ETFs through international brokerage accounts (Interactive Brokers, TD Ameritrade) or Philippine-based platforms offering foreign securities. Popular ETFs include SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) and iShares Gold Trust (IAU).

Cost structure:

• Management fees: 0.40% annually (GLD) or 0.25% (IAU)
• Brokerage commission: ₱500-1,500 per trade (Philippine brokers) or $0-5 (international platforms)
• Bid-ask spread: Typically 0.1-0.3% (very tight)
• Minimum investment: 1 share (~$18-20 or ₱1,000-1,200)

Pros: Extremely liquid (trade like stocks), low cost, tax-efficient in many jurisdictions, backed by physical gold

Cons: Requires brokerage account, currency exchange costs for PHP investors, no physical possession option

4. Gold Jewelry (Wearable Investment)

Investment-grade jewelry characteristics:

• 22K or 24K purity for maximum gold content
• Simple designs minimizing making charges (10-15% maximum)
• Certified authenticity from reputable jewelers
• Designs with enduring appeal (plain bangles, chain necklaces, simple rings)

Buy-back reality check: When selling gold jewelry back to jewelers, expect to receive:

• 80-85% of current gold price for 22K-24K jewelry
• 70-75% for 18K jewelry
• 0% recovery of making charges paid initially
• Deductions for any gemstones (typically sold separately at 20-40% below retail)

Example calculation - 10-gram 22K necklace:

• Purchase price today: ₱103,916 (including making charges and VAT)
• Gold value at purchase: ₱77,317 (10g × ₱7,727.33)
• Sell-back value after 1 year (assuming prices unchanged): ₱65,719 (85% of ₱77,317)
• Net loss: ₱38,197 or 36.7%

This example demonstrates why jewelry is generally a poor short-term investment but can serve wealth preservation over decades when prices appreciate significantly.

5. Gold Mining Stocks (Indirect Exposure)

The Philippine Stock Exchange lists several companies with gold mining operations or exploration projects, including Philex Mining Corporation (PX) and others. This provides leveraged exposure to gold prices – when gold rises 10%, mining stocks may rise 20-30%, but the reverse is equally true.

Pros: Leverage to gold prices, dividend income potential, listed securities liquidity

Cons: Operational risks, management risks, capital intensity, environmental concerns, regulatory challenges

Tax Implications of Gold Investment in the Philippines

Understanding the tax treatment of gold transactions is essential for Filipino investors to remain compliant and optimize after-tax returns.

Value-Added Tax (VAT) on Gold Purchases

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) imposes 12% VAT on gold jewelry purchases in the Philippines. This applies to the total invoice value including making charges and wastage. For a ₱100,000 jewelry purchase, VAT adds ₱12,000 to the final cost.

Important exemptions:

• Investment-grade gold bullion bars and coins from authorized dealers may qualify for VAT exemption if certified as investment gold (purity 995/1000 or higher)
• Always request official receipts to ensure VAT compliance and enable potential input VAT credits for business purchases

Capital Gains Tax on Gold Sales

When selling gold (jewelry or bullion) to Philippine buyers, capital gains tax treatment depends on the nature and frequency of transactions:

• Occasional sales: If you sell gold jewelry or bullion occasionally (1-2 times per year) as a non-dealer, these transactions may not trigger immediate tax obligations. However, gains should technically be reported as part of other income on your annual tax return.
• Frequent trading: Individuals regularly buying and selling gold (3+ transactions per year) may be deemed engaged in trade and should register as self-employed, pay business taxes, and remit 8% or 12% income tax depending on gross receipts.
• Selling to pawnshops: Most pawnshop gold transactions go unreported, but technically capital gains apply. Pawnshops typically don't issue official receipts for gold purchases from individuals, creating a gray area in tax compliance.

Estate Tax on Gold Holdings

Gold jewelry and bullion form part of a deceased person's taxable estate under Philippine law. The estate tax rate is currently 6% of the net estate value (assets minus debts and allowable deductions).

Estate planning considerations:

• Gold held in safe deposit boxes will be discovered and valued by BIR during estate settlement
• Consider gifting gold to heirs during lifetime using the ₱250,000 annual donor's tax exemption (tax-free gifts up to this amount per year per recipient)
• Maintain purchase receipts and authenticity certificates to establish acquisition cost rather than having BIR estimate values

Frequently Asked Questions - Gold Price Today Philippines

What is the gold price today in the Philippines for 24 karat?

The current price of 24-karat (99.9% pure) gold in the Philippines today is ₱8,429.81 per gram, ₱84,298.10 per 10 grams, and ₱262,196.60 per troy ounce. This rate applies nationwide with minor variations (±₱50-150/gram) based on jeweler location and local market conditions. Major cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao experience relatively similar pricing, with Manila's premium jewelry districts commanding the highest rates (₱8,500-8,650/gram) and provincial cities offering marginally lower prices (₱8,250-8,380/gram). These prices update hourly based on London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) spot gold prices and the Philippine peso to US dollar exchange rate.

Why is gold price different in different cities in the Philippines?

Gold prices vary across Philippine cities due to several factors: (1) Transportation costs – gold must be physically transported from Manila importers to provincial jewelers, adding ₱30-80 per gram in logistics expenses, (2) Local competition – Manila's Greenhills district has 100+ jewelers competing intensely, driving margins down, while provincial cities may have only 5-10 jewelers with less price pressure, (3) Rent and overhead – prime Makati jewelry shops pay ₱50,000-150,000 monthly rent versus ₱15,000-30,000 in provincial cities, affecting retail premiums, (4) Inventory financing costs – smaller provincial jewelers face higher capital costs to maintain inventory, and (5) Making charge variations – skilled craftsmen command premium pricing in Manila (₱1,500-3,000/gram for intricate designs) versus provincial rates (₱800-1,500/gram). The total variation typically ranges ₱150-300 per gram (2-3.5%) between most expensive (Makati luxury jewelers) and least expensive (provincial pawnshops) options.

What is the best time to buy gold in the Philippines?

The optimal gold buying time in the Philippines depends on your timeframe and goals. For short-term jewelry buyers (weddings, gifts), avoid November-January when wedding season and Christmas demand add ₱150-300/gram premiums; instead buy February-April during slower retail periods. For long-term investors, focus on buying when the Philippine peso strengthens against the US dollar (52-54 PHP/USD range if it occurs), as this automatically lowers local gold prices even if international gold is unchanged. Additionally, global economic crisis moments> like October 2025 (pandemic panic) saw temporary gold price dips to ₱3,100-3,200/gram before recovering to ₱3,600+, creating rare buying opportunities. Dollar-cost averaging remains the most reliable strategy: invest ₱10,000-20,000 monthly regardless of short-term price movements to smooth out volatility. Lastly, buy immediately if you need jewelry for a specific event within 1-2 months – trying to time the market for ₱100-200/gram savings isn't worth missing the deadline for your wedding or special occasion.

How is gold price calculated in the Philippines?

Philippine gold prices are calculated using a standardized formula starting from the international spot price: Step 1: London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) sets the global spot price twice daily in USD per troy ounce (e.g., $2,050/oz today). Step 2: Convert to per-gram pricing by dividing by 31.1035 grams/ounce ($2,050 ÷ 31.1035 = $65.89/gram). Step 3: Convert USD to Philippine pesos using the current exchange rate ($65.89 × 56.50 PHP/USD = ₱3,723/gram base price). Step 4: Add 3% import duty imposed by Bureau of Customs (₱3,723 × 1.03 = ₱3,835). Step 5: Add retail premium of 3-4% covering jeweler costs, overhead, and profit margin (₱3,835 × 1.035 = ₱3,969 approximate wholesale). Step 6: Individual jewelers may add additional location premiums (₱50-200/gram) and making charges (₱500-3,000/gram) for jewelry. This systematic calculation ensures Philippine gold prices track international markets while reflecting local costs, taxes, and market dynamics.

What is the difference between 22K and 24K gold in the Philippines?

The fundamental difference between 22K and 24K gold lies in purity and resulting properties: 24 Karat Gold (99.9% pure) at ₱8,429.81/gram today contains virtually pure gold with minimal alloys, making it ideal for investment (coins, bars, bullion) and maximum resale value but too soft for intricate jewelry designs. 22 Karat Gold (91.6% pure) at ₱7,727.33/gram today (8.3% cheaper) contains 91.6% gold mixed with 8.4% copper, silver, or other metals for increased hardness and durability. In the Philippines, 22K gold is preferred for traditional wedding jewelry, engagement rings, and heirloom pieces requiring daily wear without excessive scratching or bending. The price difference of ₱703 per gram directly reflects the 8.4% lower gold content. When selling back to jewelers, 24K gold commands 85-90% of current spot price while 22K receives 80-85%, making 24K superior for investment purposes. For jewelry purchases, choose 24K if resale value is primary concern, 22K if you prioritize durability and wearability for daily use, and 18K (₱6,322.36/gram, 75% pure) if maximum strength is required for intricate modern designs.

Can I buy gold from Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP)?

No, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) stopped selling gold directly to the public in 1993 when it discontinued the "BSP Gold Coin" program. The Central Bank now focuses exclusively on monetary policy and financial system regulation rather than retail gold sales. However, Filipino investors can still access investment-grade gold through several authorized channels: (1) Licensed gold dealers like MoneyMax, Cebuana Lhuillier Gold Investment, and specialized bullion shops import certified bars/coins from Swiss and Canadian refineries, (2) Bank gold savings programs from BDO, BPI, and Security Bank allow buying/selling paper gold backed by physical reserves without taking delivery, (3) Pawnshops occasionally sell previously pledged gold jewelry at prices slightly below market rates, though authenticity verification is buyer's responsibility, and (4) Online platforms like Lazada and Shopee feature authorized bullion dealers selling 1-10 gram PAMP Suisse bars with authenticity certificates. When buying investment gold, always verify: (1) 999.9 purity hallmark, (2) Serialized certificate of authenticity, (3) Sealed tamper-evident packaging, and (4) Seller's business permits/licenses. Avoid purchasing unmarked gold bars or coins from unverified sellers regardless of claimed discounts.

What are making charges for gold jewelry in the Philippines?

Making charges (also called craftsmanship fees or fabrication charges) in the Philippines represent the labor, design, and overhead costs to transform raw gold into finished jewelry, charged separately from the gold's base metal value. Making charges structure varies by calculation method: (1) Per-gram pricing ranges from ₱500/gram for simple chains and bangles, ₱1,000-1,500/gram for standard wedding rings and earrings, ₱1,800-2,500/gram for medium-complexity necklace designs, to ₱2,500-3,500/gram for intricate filigree work, temple jewelry, or custom designer pieces. (2) Percentage of gold value typically ranges 12-18% for standard jewelry, 18-25% for medium complexity, and 25-35% for intricate designs – this method benefits buyers when gold prices are low but becomes expensive when gold is costly. Factors affecting making charges: Design complexity (simple vs. intricate patterns), jeweler reputation (branded stores charge 30-50% premium), location (Manila/Makati charge more than provincial cities), jewelry type (lightweight earrings have higher per-gram charges than heavy necklaces), and customization (custom designs add 25-40% to standard making charges). Negotiation tips: Making charges are highly negotiable – request 10-15% discounts for cash payment, compare quotes from 3-4 jewelers before deciding, buy during off-peak months (February-April, August-September) when jewelers offer promotional discounts, and consider simple designs minimizing making charges if investment value is primary concern. Remember: making charges are never recovered when selling back to jewelers, so minimize them for investment-oriented purchases.

Is gold price going up or down in the Philippines?

Gold prices in the Philippines have shown a strong upward trend over the past 12 months>, rising approximately 127% from ₱3,700-3,900/gram in October 2025 to ₱8,429.81/gram today (October 2025). This dramatic increase stems from multiple converging factors: (1) Philippine peso depreciation from 55.0 to 56.5-57.0 per USD (+2.7% decline) automatically raises local gold prices even without international gold movement, (2) International gold surge from $1,850-1,900/oz to $2,040-2,060/oz (+10% gain) driven by Federal Reserve interest rate uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, (3) Central bank buying – global central banks including BSP added 1,037 tons of gold reserves in 2024, supporting prices, and (4) Asian demand recovery – Chinese and Indian gold imports rebounded 15-20% as COVID restrictions fully lifted. Near-term outlook (Q4 2025): Gold prices in the Philippines are likely to remain elevated in the ₱8,200-8,700/gram range through year-end, with potential for ₱8,800-9,000/gram if peso weakens further toward 58 per USD or if US Federal Reserve cuts interest rates more aggressively than expected. Medium-term outlook (2026-2027): Structural factors favor continued appreciation toward ₱9,500-11,000/gram over the next 24 months: (1) Philippine peso projected to gradually weaken to 58-60 per USD by 2027 based on trade deficit trends, (2) International gold expected to test $2,200-2,400/oz as deglobalization and currency diversification continue, and (3) Rising Filipino middle-class wealth will support domestic gold demand. Investment implication: The uptrend remains intact – pullbacks to ₱8,200-8,300/gram represent buying opportunities rather than signals to sell, with downside risk limited and upside potential substantial over 3-5 year timeframe.

Conclusion: Making Smart Gold Purchase Decisions in 2025

At ₱8,429.81 per gram for 24-karat gold today, Filipino buyers face a complex decision: Is this a reasonable entry point, or should I wait for lower prices? Based on the comprehensive analysis above, several conclusions emerge for different buyer categories.

For jewelry buyers with near-term needs (weddings, anniversaries, gifts within 3 months), current prices represent fair value – neither bargain levels nor dangerously overvalued. The risk of waiting is that seasonal demand from October through January wedding season could add ₱150-250/gram premiums, negating any savings from potential price declines. Buy from reputable jewelers in competitive districts (Greenhills, Binondo, Cebu) where negotiation yields 5-10% savings on making charges, and request itemized invoices separating gold value, making charges, and VAT.

For investment-oriented buyers focused on wealth preservation and capital appreciation, the current environment favors a dollar-cost averaging approach rather than lump-sum investment. Allocate ₱10,000-20,000 monthly to gold purchases (physical bars, coins, or bank gold savings accounts) regardless of short-term price movements. This strategy smooths volatility, reduces timing risk, and capitalizes on peso weakness over time. Avoid gold jewelry for investment purposes due to 20-35% making charges that are never recovered upon resale – focus instead on 999.9 purity bars from PAMP Suisse, Credit Suisse, or bank gold savings programs offering free storage and tighter bid-ask spreads.

For long-term wealth preservation (5-10+ year horizon), Philippine gold prices at ₱8,434/gram will likely be viewed as a reasonable entry point in hindsight. The structural drivers favoring higher gold prices – peso depreciation trend (2-3% annually), global de-dollarization, Asian middle-class demand growth, and supply constraints – remain firmly in place. Gold's historical performance in the Philippines (14.5% annual returns over the past decade) has significantly outpaced inflation (5-6%), bank deposits (2-4%), and most fixed-income investments, validating its role as a core wealth preservation asset in Filipino portfolios.

Key takeaways for 2025 gold buyers in the Philippines:

• Current prices are neutral – neither compelling bargains nor bubble territory
• Shop across multiple jewelers to secure competitive making charges (aim for 12-15% vs. retail 18-25%)
• Favor simple jewelry designs minimizing making charges if resale value matters
• Consider bank gold savings programs for investment purposes (lower costs than physical)
• Maintain 5-10% of liquid assets in gold as portfolio diversification and currency hedge
• Document purchases with official receipts for warranty claims and future tax compliance
• Avoid buying unmarked gold or from unverified sellers regardless of discounts offered

Gold remains a cornerstone asset for Filipino families seeking to preserve wealth across generations, hedge against peso depreciation, and maintain purchasing power during economic uncertainty. While no investment is without risk, gold's 5,000-year track record as a store of value and its proven performance in Philippine peso terms make it a prudent allocation for most households' financial portfolios.

Stay informed: Gold prices in the Philippines update hourly based on international markets and exchange rates. Visit our live Philippines gold price page daily for the latest rates across all major cities, comprehensive market analysis, and expert insights to guide your gold investment decisions. Whether you're buying a wedding ring in Manila, investing in gold bars in Cebu, or tracking market trends from Davao, having access to accurate, real-time pricing empowers you to make confident decisions and secure the best possible value.