get a couple of references from the phils, from an old teacher, ex-employer, someone who can vouch for you.
just write something like this and email it to your family/friend, who can get the person who you wish to act as a reference to get them to print it on headed paper with their contact details (name, address, email address, telephone number) , ask them to sign it and send it back to you..
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
This is to certify that I have known (your name) for xx years, and found her to be honest, sincere reliable and hard working. She consistently display qualities of conscientiousness in her (studies or work) and responsibilities.
With these qualities i am pleased to endorse (your name)'s application. Any assistance extended to her would be highly appreciated.
yours sincerely
my misses had the same problem, she got a reference from the dean of the med school she went to in the phils and another from a businessman we know in the UK.
good luck