Buy local vs import · Philippines
Apple iPhone 16: buy here or import from the US?
This verdict is computed only from the prices below and is never for sale. If you buy on Amazon.com through one of our links, Amazon may pay us a commission, a percentage it sets per product category; the verdict never reads it. Prices as of 2026-10-22.
Customs adds about ₱6,225 at the door
Parcels to the Philippines over ₱10,000 are charged 12% VAT. This one is over the line — already counted in the imported total above, but it lands as a separate bill on delivery.
Warranty won't transfer. Apple iPhone warranty is valid only in the country of purchase — there is no international warranty, so a US unit cannot be serviced locally. source
The real numbers
| Local retail price | ₱64,990 | Philippines, as of 2026-10-22 · 128GB / 8GB |
|---|---|---|
| US price (item) | $799 | @ ₱63.4/USD +3% FX = ₱52,176 |
| Forwarding | ₱1,220 | Buy&Ship, 2 lb |
| Import VAT | ₱6,225 | 12% on CIF |
| All-in landed cost | ₱59,621 | what importing truly costs you |
Anchor: US. Duty 0%. FX ₱63.4/USD as of 2026-10-22. Rates By Exchange Rate API
Why
- Importing is 8% cheaper before considering risk.
- But the manufacturer warranty is NOT honored locally — any repair means shipping it back, so the saving has to be large to be worth it.
- The saving is too small to justify losing the warranty.
Where to buy it locally
Local marketplace — check the current best local price and seller. Only our links to Amazon.com can earn us a commission.
Hunt for it cheaper — check these too: AliExpress →·eBay →·Amazon →·Google Shopping →
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Full Apple iPhone 16 price record & specs →
Sources — local price: retailer (2026-10-22) · forwarder: Buy&Ship · VAT: BOC. Estimates from published rates; confirm at checkout.