I understand that non-Filipino nationals cannot open a bank account, what the exact rules are I don't know, as banking regulations differ from the UK. Having said that HSBC have a presence in the Philippines (branches only in Manila & Cebu, but access to ATM's throughout Philippines) so it may be worth talking to them, they have the main branch at Ground Floor, Enterprise Tower, Ayala Avenue (nearly opposite the Stock Exhange), Makati. Elsa has acccounts there, and they are very helpful, nothing is a problem. HSBC also operate in the UK an "International Bank Account" so theres something else to consider.
