Manila, Philippines
Your essential guide to modeling in Manila, the media capital of the Philippines, focusing on high-volume commercial, catalog, print, and regional fashion demands, agency standards, and direct submission via SendModels.
How to Become a Model in Manila, Philippines: Your Essential Guide
The Current State of Modeling in Manila
Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is the undisputed media, commercial, and fashion capital of the country and a crucial gateway to the Southeast Asian market. The industry is characterized by extremely high-volume demand for TV commercials (TVCs), print advertising, e-commerce, and high-quality catalog work. Manila agencies actively scout for models who are highly adaptable, expressive, and possess a versatile look, often favoring those with Asian, Spanish, or mixed heritage who can appeal to the vast domestic and regional consumer base.
Essential Requirements for Modeling in Manila
General Requirements and Local Standards
To be seriously considered by top Manila agencies, models must demonstrate versatility, professionalism, and a high comfort level with on-camera work (especially for TVCs).
Height (Commercial/Print): Height requirements are generally flexible compared to NY/Paris, prioritizing charisma and appeal. Typically 5'6" to 5'9" (female) and 5'10" to 6'1" (male). The market is more accepting of diverse heights for commercial roles.
Age Range: New faces are typically scouted between 16 and 24. Manila has strong, year-round demand for models across all age groups due to its expansive media production industry.
Local Visual Standards: Agencies here look for models who are highly photogenic, capable of acting, and project a friendly, approachable, "girl/boy-next-door" aesthetic for the vast commercial sector.
Local Work Compliance: Foreign models must secure the necessary Alien Employment Permit (AEP) and appropriate visa to model legally in the Philippines. Agencies are highly compliant and only work with models who have the correct legal status.
The Traditional Submission Challenge
Traditionally, contacting the leading Manila agencies—such as Mercator Artist and Model Management, IM Agency, or Professional Models Association of the Philippines (PMAP)—requires submissions that clearly showcase acting potential and commercial versatility. Due to the high number of local and regional submissions, manual applications are frequent, making it essential to have a professionally polished portfolio tailored for high-volume commercial use.
Our Solution: Direct Submission to the Top Manila Agencies
SendModels was specifically created to solve this challenge. Instead of manually applying to dozens of firms, we allow you to focus your energy on perfecting your portfolio.
For just $10, we guarantee your professional profile is instantly delivered to the Top 20 most reputable and active modeling agencies operating within Manila. Our system ensures your submission is properly formatted to meet their exact industry standards, guaranteeing your talent lands on the right desk.
How to Prepare Your Portfolio for the Manila Market
Your portfolio must immediately convey high expressiveness, versatility, and commercial appeal. Focus on the following key assets:
1. Digitals (Polaroids)
These are crucial. Agencies require clean, high-quality, unedited digitals.
Requirements: Bright, clear lighting, plain background. Simple clothing. Focus on full-body shots and close-ups that show a wide range of facial expressions (happy, serious, thoughtful).
2. Commercial Headshots and Expressions
Professional headshots that emphasize a natural, bright, engaging smile and expressive eyes are mandatory, demonstrating the ability to convey a story instantly (critical for TVCs).
3. Clear Versatility
Your book should feature a range of looks—from basic casual wear to professional business attire—to show maximum adaptability for commercial clients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the primary focus of the Manila modeling market?
High-volume TV Commercials (TVCs), print advertising, e-commerce, and corporate campaigns for both local and regional brands.
Is Manila a good market for New Faces?
Yes. Manila is an excellent development market, offering high-volume, consistent work and professional training, especially for models interested in an acting/modeling crossover career.
Is knowledge of Tagalog (Filipino) necessary for work?
No. English is one of the official languages of the Philippines and is the primary business language of the modeling and advertising industry. However, learning basic Tagalog phrases is highly valued by clients and crew for professionalism and communication in daily life.
How does Manila compare to Singapore or Bangkok?
Manila excels in TV Commercial volume and domestic media production. Singapore is the regional hub for high-end corporate/luxury brand campaigns. Bangkok is the major hub for pan-Asian print/fashion work.
Are there many opportunities for foreign models?
Yes. Manila actively seeks international models (Caucasian, Eastern European, Brazilian, etc.) who are generally taller than local models to fill specific international roles in high-budget campaigns.
