The best purchase I made before coming to the Philippines was a 4G MiFi device. They are available online for $60-$120. Upon arriving in the Philippines, I purchased a Smart Postpaid SIM for 2,499/month that gave me unlimited internet. The hotel WiFi was miserable, but with the MiFi device, I got 10Mbps-15Mbps. I was able to watch Netflix and other streaming video without trouble.
The unit is small and has a 5 hour battery. Away from the hotel. I have full internet access for my cell phone, tablet or laptop.
I also just purchased a 5G MiFi. I transferred my SIM to the new device and now enjoy speeds of up to 96 Mbps. Be warned, these are not cheap. The new units cost $200-$600. The unit is larger and has 8 hour battery life. I put it in a backpack and carry a spare battery
Good ones include ports for a TS-9 antenna for a strong signal if you are far from a cell tower at a fixed location.
Setting up either device requires some geekiness, so be prepared to invest time and effort or find a techno savvy friend
