Dumaguete named among Asia’s most affordable retirement spots

The Department of Tourism (DoT) said the Philippines further cements its position as a global retirement hub, as Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental receives recognition as one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Asia for retirees.

“It highlights the city’s growing expat community, vibrant university culture, affordable housing and dining options, and improved local healthcare infrastructure,” the agency said in a news release on Wednesday.

“The DoT attributes this recognition to the strong public-private partnerships among local stakeholders in Dumaguete, the retirement community, and the sustained efforts of its attached agency, the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), in advancing policies and programs that support long-stay visitors and retirees,” it added.

A report by Investopedia, a United States-based financial education website, named Dumaguete City as “one of the Philippines’ top retirement destinations”.

“The Philippine government has designated Dumaguete as one of five areas in the country targeted as top retirement hubs, which has helped drive improvements in local healthcare infrastructure,” the report said.

“The city is home to several universities, keeping the town lively with affordable restaurants, cafes, and cultural events,” it added.

Other destinations in Asia mentioned in the report include Penang, Malaysia, Hoi An, Vietnam, and Chiang Rai, Thailand.

“Lesser-known Asian destinations offer excellent cost of living and lifestyle appeal while allowing retirees to avoid crowded, expensive hubs,” it said.

Last year, the DoT and PRA planned to enhance the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) program, a flagship program aimed at encouraging foreigners and returning overseas Filipino workers to retire in the Philippines.

Data from the DoT showed that the Philippines hosts more than 83,000 SRRV holders.

Apart from the recognition given to the “City of Gentle People”, the Philippines was also awarded as Asia’s Best Retirement Destination at the 11th TripZilla Excellence Awards in December 2025. — Almira Louise S. Martinez