Thinking of starting a career in security? Whether you’re looking for a steady job or you’re passionate about protecting others, becoming a security guard in the Philippines can be a solid career move. It’s not just about standing at entrances or patrolling buildings—security guards are the backbone of safety for businesses, homes, events, and even VIPs.
But how do you get started? What do you need to qualify? And where can this career take you? Let’s break it all down in this easy-to-understand guide.
Table of Contents
- Why Security Guard Jobs Matter in the Philippines
- Qualifications: What You Need to Become a Security Guard
- Step-by-Step: How to Be a Security Guard in the Philippines
- Optional: Level Up With Specialized Training
- How Much Do Security Guards Earn in the Philippines?
- Tips to Succeed as a Security Guard
- Where to Apply: Finding Security Guard Jobs in the Philippines
- Other Essential FAQs About Being a Security Guard in the Philippines
Why Security Guard Jobs Matter in the Philippines
Security guards do more than just keep watch—they play a key role in crime prevention, emergency response, and crowd control. With rising demand for both general and specialized security services in the Philippines, trained security personnel are needed now more than ever.
From malls and office buildings to embassies and banks, businesses rely on security guard services in the Philippines to protect their people, property, and operations.
Qualifications: What You Need to Become a Security Guard
Basic Requirements
Before you can wear the uniform, you’ll need to meet a few basic qualifications. These include:
- Filipino citizen
- Not less than 21 up to 60 years old
- Not more than 35 years old for new applicants and security guards in nonsupervisory position
- At least a high school graduate
- Physically and mentally fit
- Good moral character (no criminal record)
- Must pass a neuro-psychiatric and drug test
- At least 5’2” in height for males, and 5’0” for females
- Has completed the required pre-licensing training course or its equivalent
These requirements ensure that security guards are physically capable and mentally prepared to handle real-world situations.
Additional Documents You’ll Need:
When applying for training or a job, you’ll typically be asked for:
- Birth certificate
- Barangay clearance
- Police and NBI clearance
- Diploma or transcript of records
- 2×2 and full-body pictures
- Medical certificate
- Valid IDs
Step-by-Step: How to Be a Security Guard in the Philippines
Step 1: Enroll in a Basic Security Guard Training Course
The first official step is to undergo the Pre-Licensing Training Course or Basic Security Guard Training Course. This is a 150-hour program conducted by a PPSA (Philippine Private Security Agency)-accredited training school.
Related: What You Need to Know About Security Guard Training
During the course, you’ll learn:
- Security laws and regulations
- Firearms safety and handling
- Emergency response
- Surveillance and patrol techniques
- Customer service and ethics
TIP: If you’re searching for trusted security guard services in the Philippines, many agencies also run training programs for future hires.
Step 2: Pass the Licensure Exam by the PNP SOSIA
After training, you’ll need to take the Licensure Examination for Security Guards, conducted by the Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (SOSIA) under the Philippine National Police (PNP).
You’ll be tested on what you learned during training, including security laws, firearms handling, and emergency protocols.
Step 3: Apply for Your Security License (License to Exercise Security Profession or LESP)
Once you pass the exam, you can apply for your License to Exercise Security Profession (LESP). This license is issued by the PNP-SOSIA and is required to legally work as a security guard in the Philippines.
TIP: Make sure your license is always valid—it’s typically renewable every 2 years.
Step 4: Apply for a Job Through a Licensed Security Agency
Now that you’re licensed, it’s time to start working! You can apply to licensed and reputable security agencies that offer security guard services across the Philippines.
Many companies also offer specialized security services in the Philippines such as:
- VIP protection (close-in security)
- Hospital security
- Bank and armored transport
- Corporate or mall security
- Event security
- Industrial and construction site security
These roles may require additional training or certifications, depending on the level of risk involved.
Optional: Level Up With Specialized Training
If you want to move up in the industry or increase your earning potential, you can pursue advanced or specialized training in areas like:
- Firearms proficiency
- Bomb threat management
- Executive protection
- K9 handling
- Maritime security
These skills are especially useful if you’re applying for specialized security services in the Philippines or looking to join elite security teams.
How Much Do Security Guards Earn in the Philippines?
The salary of a security guard in the Philippines depends on where they’re assigned and the company they work for. But by law, their pay must not be lower than the minimum wage for non-agricultural workers in the region.
If a guard is hired in one region but assigned to another, they should get the higher minimum wage between the two.
For example, if you’re hired in Bicol but assigned to Metro Manila, you’ll get the Metro Manila rate—because it’s higher.
If you’re hired and assigned within the same region, the wage in that area applies.
Security guards assigned to tougher posts or who work overtime may also receive hazard pay and other allowances.
Tips to Succeed as a Security Guard
Here are a few things that can help you stand out and succeed in this field:
1. Stay Physically Fit
Security jobs can be demanding—long hours, standing or patrolling, and being alert at all times. Staying fit helps you stay sharp.
2. Keep Learning
Consider attending seminars, renewing your certifications, or learning about new safety technologies.
3. Communicate Well
Being able to talk to people calmly, especially in stressful situations, is key. You’ll be working with the public, your team, and sometimes law enforcement.
4. Be Professional
Always wear your uniform properly, be punctual, and maintain integrity—these things build trust and credibility.
Where to Apply: Finding Security Guard Jobs in the Philippines
You can start your job search with:
- Licensed security guard agencies
- Online job boards like JobStreet or Indeed
- Direct applications to malls, banks, or private companies
- Government projects or LGUs
Make sure to work with licensed and reliable security agencies. These agencies not only match you with clients but also handle your benefits, training updates, and license renewals.
Related: 4 Factors to Consider in Choosing a Security Agency in the Philippines
Other Essential FAQs About Being a Security Guard in the Philippines
1. How long does it take to become a licensed security guard?
Becoming a licensed security guard in the Philippines usually takes 1 to 3 months, including more than 2 weeks of training (150 hours) and additional time for clearances, licensing, and job application—depending on the training center and agency processing times.
2. Is a drug test required?
Yes. A drug test and neuro-psychiatric evaluation are mandatory requirements before you can apply for your License to Exercise Security Profession (LESP).
3. How often do I need to renew my license?
Security guard licenses in the Philippines are valid for 2 years. Make sure to renew on time through the PNP-SOSIA or your security agency to avoid penalties or suspension.
4. Can women become security guards?
Absolutely! Many women now work in the industry and serve in roles such as mall security, front desk security, and even VIP close protection, especially for female clients.
5. Do all security guards carry firearms?
Not all. Only those assigned to high-risk posts (like banks or armored transport) are usually armed—and they must undergo additional firearms safety training and licensing.
Related: Armed vs. Unarmed Security Guards: Which Is Right For You?
6. Can I get promoted as a security guard?
Yes. With experience and further training, you can be promoted to Team Leader, Detachment Commander, or even Agency Supervisor. Some also move into private investigation or consultancy roles.
If you’re looking for a stable job with a clear path for growth, becoming a security guard in the Philippines is definitely worth considering. The demand for both general and specialized security services in the Philippines continues to grow, opening doors for well-trained and licensed professionals.
Plus, with the right attitude and continuous training, you can move up the ladder—whether as a team leader, agency supervisor, or even into private investigation work.
Get specialized security services in the Philippines now and let our team provide expert protection for your office this Holy Week and beyond! Contact us today!
Last updated: June 26, 2025