Filipino Community in Malta
A Growing Community
The Filipino community in Malta has been growing steadily. Current estimates put the population at 3,000–5,000 Filipinos, making it one of the largest non-EU communities on the island. Most Filipino workers are employed in hospitality, cleaning, healthcare, and domestic services.
Despite being a small community compared to the Gulf, Filipinos in Malta describe it as close-knit and supportive. New arrivals quickly find connections through churches, community groups, and online networks.
Where Filipinos Live in Malta
The most popular areas for Filipino residents include:
- Msida and Gzira — central, affordable, and well-connected by bus. Several Filipino stores are in this area
- Qawra and Bugibba — in the north, popular with hospitality workers. More affordable rents
- Sliema and St. Julian's — more expensive but close to many short-let properties and tourism jobs
- Hamrun and Marsa — budget-friendly areas with good bus connections
Most Filipino workers share apartments to keep costs down. A shared room typically costs €250–€400 per month depending on the area.
Filipino Shops and Groceries
You will not struggle to find Filipino food in Malta. Several Asian supermarkets stock:
- Rice (jasmine, calrose, and sticky rice)
- Filipino condiments — soy sauce, vinegar, patis, bagoong
- Instant noodles (Lucky Me!, Pancit Canton)
- Canned goods (corned beef, sardines, spam)
- Frozen Filipino foods (longganisa, tocino, bangus)
Popular stores include Asian grocery shops in Msida, Gzira, Hamrun, and Qawra. Some stores also stock Filipino snacks, drinks (Zesto, C2), and personal care products.
Churches and Religious Life
Malta is a predominantly Catholic country, which resonates strongly with Filipino culture. Several parishes offer Tagalog-language masses:
- St. Paul's Shipwreck Church in Valletta
- Msida Parish Church
- Other parishes hold occasional Filipino community masses
The Simbang Gabi (nine-day pre-Christmas mass tradition) is celebrated by the Filipino community each December. Easter processions in Malta also mirror Philippine traditions.
Community Organisations and Events
Several Filipino associations operate in Malta:
- Philippine Association in Malta — organises cultural events, Independence Day celebrations, and community outreach
- Filipino Workers' Alliance — provides support for workers' rights and employment issues
- Church-based groups — many parishes have Filipino fellowship groups
The community celebrates Philippine Independence Day (June 12) with a gathering each year. Christmas and New Year celebrations often include Filipino traditions like noche buena and media noche.
Online Networks
The most active online communities for Filipinos in Malta are on Facebook. Search for groups like "Filipinos in Malta," "Pinoy Malta," and "OFW Malta" for:
- Room and apartment listings
- Job postings and referrals
- Selling and buying second-hand items
- Advice on permits, banking, and daily life
- Event announcements
These groups are essential for new arrivals. Post an introduction and you will quickly get practical advice from kabayan who have been through it.
Tips for Settling In
- Learn some Maltese phrases — even basic greetings like "bongu" (good morning) go a long way
- Join a community group early — it will make your first weeks much easier
- Explore the island — Malta is small (27 km long) and every town has something unique. Weekend trips to Gozo, Comino, and the Three Cities are easy
- Use the bus system — at €26/month for unlimited travel, it is the most affordable way to get around
- Stay connected with home — WiFi is excellent in Malta, and calling apps make it easy to stay in touch with family in the Philippines