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Boost Holiday Sales with Facebook Ads in the Philippines

The holiday season in the Philippines is one of the busiest times of the year — filled with shopping sprees, gift-giving, and heightened online activity. For businesses, this festive rush presents the perfect opportunity to increase visibility and drive sales.

With millions of Filipinos active on social media daily, Facebook Ads remain one of the most effective tools to reach potential customers. From promoting discounts to highlighting holiday bundles, Facebook Ads can help your business stay on top of consumers’ minds during the season of giving.

How much is digital advertising in the Philippines?

Digital advertising costs vary depending on campaign goals, audience size, and duration.

On Facebook, small businesses targeting a local area can spend ₱500–₱2,000 to boost a post for a few days, while larger brands running full campaigns may allocate ₱10,000–₱50,000 or more each month.

For instance, a bakery promoting a limited-time Christmas offer might boost a post for a weekend, while an established clothing brand could invest in a month-long conversion campaign for broader reach.

Boosted posts are perfect for short-term promos, while Facebook Ad campaigns deliver better long-term performance by optimizing for engagement, clicks, or conversions.

How does digital marketing work?

Digital marketing works by helping brands reach their audience through online platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Google, and websites.

It combines strategy, creative content, and data to attract, engage, and convert potential customers. During the holidays, this could mean running Facebook marketing ads, launching exclusive holiday offers, or creating video campaigns that connect emotionally with your audience.

When executed properly, digital marketing turns casual browsers into loyal customers.

What is a digital marketing agency?

A digital marketing agency is a team of professionals that helps businesses grow their presence online. They handle ad creation, content strategy, targeting, performance analysis, and more. When it comes to Facebook ads, marketers carefully plan campaigns, from crafting eye-catching visuals and persuasive copy to selecting precise audience segments and monitoring real-time performance  to ensure every peso spent delivers results.

This is especially helpful during the holidays, when competition is tight and businesses need consistent, data-driven marketing to stand out.

Which company is best for digital marketing in the Philippines?

The best digital marketing company is one that combines creativity, technicality and a deep understanding of the local market.

In the Philippines, iManila is one of the top choices for businesses looking to maximize their online presence through effective Facebook advertising. With over two decades of experience, iManila helps brands craft data-driven ad campaigns, from audience targeting and content creation to performance tracking  that engage customers and drive real results, especially during high-demand seasons like Christmas.

Whether you need expertly managed Facebook Ads, website development, or marketing support, iManila delivers solutions that bring your brand closer to your audience.

Make This Holiday Season Your Most Successful Yet

Running Facebook Ads during the holiday season is one of the most effective ways to reach more customers, increase engagement, and boost sales during the busiest period of the year.

By understanding your goals, setting a realistic budget, and partnering with a trusted digital marketing agency like iManila, you can turn the festive season into a period of growth and success.

This Christmas, let iManila help you plan, execute, and optimize your Facebook Ads so your business can shine online and make every click count.

Partner with iManila

With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web systems for businesses in different industries and a top digital marketing agency that provides a wide range of digital marketing services. Talk to us!

Halloween Website Ideas: 8 Wicked Tricks to Get More Leads

Your website might look alive, but without leads, it’s just a haunted house—beautiful from the outside, but eerily empty within. This Halloween season, it’s time to cast some wicked spells on your digital strategy and transform wandering visitors into loyal customers. Here are 8 tricks guaranteed to scare up more leads and keep your business thriving.

Trick #1: Cast a Spell with Clear Calls-to-Action

Don’t let visitors drift aimlessly like lost ghosts. Clear, bold calls-to-action (CTAs) guide them to take the next step—whether that’s signing up, booking, or buying. Play with contrasting colors, action-driven words, and strategic placement to make your CTAs impossible to ignore.

Trick #2: Summon More Visitors with SEO Potions

Keywords are your magic ingredients. Optimizing your website with on-page SEO, meta descriptions, and targeted keywords helps summon organic traffic straight from search engines. Think of SEO as your cauldron—stir it consistently, and you’ll keep gaining fresh visitors.

Trick #3: Brew Engagement with Content Marketing

Blogs, videos, and infographics are content spells that charm your audience and keep them coming back for more. This season, create Halloween-themed blogs, promos, or campaigns to catch attention and ride the holiday buzz. The right content keeps your brand top of mind long after the spooky season ends.

Trick #4: Haunt Social Media for More Visibility

If your website feels buried, social media can make it rise from the grave. Seasonal campaigns, contests, and giveaways can generate buzz while directing traffic back to your site. With paid ads, you can target the exact audience you want—no tricks, just results

Trick #5: Build Backlinks Like a Web of Spiders

Backlinks are links from other sites that point to yours, boosting credibility and search rankings. Picture each backlink as a link in your spiderweb, trapping more visitors and strengthening your digital presence. Collaborations, guest posts, and high-value content can help spin this web stronger.

Trick #6: Lure Customers Quickly with Irresistible Offers

Nothing works like an exclusive Halloween discount or a limited-time freebie. Add urgency to your CTAs with phrases like “limited time only” or “exclusive offer” to entice customers to act fast. Scarcity attracts—it’s human nature.

Trick #7: Keep Leads Alive with Email Marketing

Don’t let your hard-earned leads turn into ghosts. Drip campaigns and regular newsletters nurture customer relationships and bring them back to your site. Personalized subject lines and timely follow-ups keep your brand on top of their mind.

Trick #8: Use Analytics to Spot What’s Creeping in the Shadows

Without data, you’re walking blind through a haunted forest. Website analytics reveal which pages attract the most visitors, which CTAs convert, and where your traffic comes from. With these insights, you can refine your strategy and focus on what truly drives results.

Casting the Final Spell

With these 8 wicked tricks, your website won’t just scare up attention—it’ll convert curious ghosts and goblins into loyal customers. So light the candles, cast your spells, and let your digital presence shine this Halloween season.

At iManila, we help businesses conjure websites that perform—through secure hosting, seamless website development, and smart digital marketing strategies. While you focus on running your business, we’ll make sure your site stays fast, secure, and ready to capture every lead that comes your way.

Partner with iManila

With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web systems for businesses in different industries and a top digital marketing agency that provides a wide range of digital marketing services. Talk to us!

Holiday Revamp: Hiring the Right Web Design Company

As the holiday season approaches, businesses are racing to revamp their websites — from festive design updates to smoother online shopping experiences. Whether you’re preparing for a surge in traffic or aiming to boost your year-end campaigns, this is the perfect time to give your website a well-deserved refresh. And that starts with one crucial step: hiring the right web design company.

1. Know What You Need Before You Hire

Before reaching out to any agency, take a moment to define your goals. Are you planning a full redesign, upgrading your website speed, or adding new features for your customers? The clearer your objectives, the easier it will be to find a team that fits your needs.

If your site runs on WordPress, it might be time to upgrade your theme, update plugins, or improve security — especially before the holiday rush. A reliable web developer in the Philippines can help you optimize performance and avoid downtime during peak shopping periods.

2. How to Choose the Best Web Development Company

Choosing the right partner can make or break your website revamp. The usual question people ask is “Which company is best for web designing?” Well the answer to that is you should  look for a web design company in the Philippines that not only creates beautiful designs but also understands performance, SEO, and user experience.

The best web development companies don’t just build websites — they build business solutions. They’ll take time to learn about your brand, audience, and goals, then tailor their approach to match. It’s also smart to check their portfolio and client reviews to ensure they’ve delivered consistent results with different industries.

3. Plan Your Budget and Understand the Costs

One of the most common questions businesses ask is, “How much does it cost to create a website in the Philippines?”
The answer depends on your project’s size and complexity. A simple WordPress site may start at a few tens of thousands of pesos, while fully customized websites can reach higher, depending on features, integrations, and design requirements.

Instead of focusing only on price, think of long-term value. The right team can create a website that not only looks good but also performs well — converting visitors into customers and giving you better returns over time.

4. Don’t Skip Maintenance

After launch, your work doesn’t end. Website maintenance ensures your site stays fast, secure, and fully functional. This includes regular updates, backups, and performance checks — all essential to keeping your website running smoothly throughout the holidays and beyond.

Make This Holiday Your Website’s Fresh Start

A great website doesn’t just attract attention — it builds trust and drives results. By hiring a trusted web design and development team, setting a clear budget, and planning for maintenance, you can ensure your online presence shines brighter this holiday season.

At iManila, we combine creative design, technical expertise, and digital marketing strategy to build websites that perform all year round.

Partner with iManila

With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web systems for businesses in different industries and a top digital marketing agency that provides a wide range of digital marketing services. Talk to us!

The Ultimate Checklist Before Launching Your New Website

Getting ready to launch a new website? Whether you’re building your first one or revamping an existing site, there’s more to it than just hitting “publish.” From choosing the right partner to setting up hosting and marketing, every step can affect how well your website performs once it goes live.

To help you get started, here are some of the most common questions businesses ask before launching a website — and the answers that can guide your next move.

1. What is the best website development company in the Philippines?

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is who to trust with your website. The best website development company isn’t just the one with the prettiest designs — it’s the team that understands your goals, listens to your needs, and delivers both creativity and functionality.

When comparing agencies, look for those that provide end-to-end services like web design, SEO, hosting, and digital marketing  to ensure a smooth and successful launch.

At iManila, for example, we combine creative design with strategic performance, helping businesses build a strong and lasting online presence.

2. How much does a web developer cost in the Philippines?

Pricing varies based on your project’s complexity, design needs, and functionality. A basic WordPress website may cost around ₱30,000 to ₱50,000, while a custom-built or e-commerce website can go higher depending on the required integrations.

If you’re deciding between a website builder and a web developer, remember this: builders are cheaper and faster to launch, but hiring a professional web developer gives you flexibility, scalability, and expert support in the long run.

3. What is meant by web hosting?

Web hosting is the service that keeps your website online and accessible to your audience. It stores your files, images, and data securely on a server so people can view your website anytime.

If you’re wondering how much web hosting costs in the Philippines, it typically ranges from ₱3,000 to ₱10,000 per year — depending on storage, speed, and security. A good hosting provider ensures your site loads quickly and stays protected from potential threats.

Freelancers typically charge PHP 5,000–PHP 15,000/month for basic website maintenance, while agencies offer full support, faster turnaround, and additional services for PHP 15,000–PHP 50,000/month.

4. What maintenance does a website need?

Launching your site isn’t the end, it’s the beginning of regular maintenance. Websites need backups, security checks, updates, and plugin management to stay healthy and secure.

Without proper maintenance, your website can slow down, break, or even get hacked. That’s why many businesses choose a web design partner that offers ongoing maintenance packages  so they can focus on growth while the experts handle the technical side.

5. How does digital marketing help your website after launch?

Once your site is live, you need visitors — and that’s where digital marketing comes in. SEO, paid ads, and social media campaigns help attract traffic and convert visitors into customers.

If you’ve ever asked, “Is digital marketing costly?” or “How does digital marketing work?”, the answer depends on your goals and budget. Digital marketing can be highly cost-effective when done strategically, especially compared to traditional advertising.

A strong digital presence ensures your new website doesn’t just look good — it performs.

Ready to launch?

Launching a website is just the beginning. By asking the right questions and partnering with the right web design and digital marketing team, you’re not just creating a website — you’re building a strong foundation for your brand’s online success.

At iManila, we combine strategy, creativity, and technology to help your business grow, from website development to digital marketing and beyond. Let’s build your next big digital success together. 

Partner with iManila

With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web systems for businesses in different industries and a top digital marketing agency that provides a wide range of digital marketing services. Talk to us!

Website Development Monthly Cost You Should Know

Still believe a website is just a one-time investment? Think again. Websites are living, breathing tools that need constant care. Ignore updates, security, or backups, and you risk downtime, hacks, or a slow site that drives visitors away. In this blog, we’ll break down the actual cost of running a website so you’ll know what exactly to expect. Understanding these expenses is key to keeping your website online without unnecessary surprises. 

How Much Should a Website Cost Per Month?

Many businesses assume once a website is built, it’s done. In reality, websites come with recurring costs to keep them live, secure, and functional. Here’s what to expect:

Essential Monthly Costs:

  • Hosting: PHP 5,000–PHP 285,800/year
  • SSL Certificate: PHP 4,000-30,000/year
  • Security & Maintenance Tools: PHP 10,000–PHP 50,000/year

Hidden Costs to Watch:

  • Premium plugins or themes with annual renewal fees
  • Extra bandwidth if your website traffic grows suddenly
  • Additional security services for e-commerce or payment sites

How Much Does a Website Developer Cost Per Month?

Paying a developer is about peace of mind. Here is what Monthly Developer Support usually includes:

  • Content edits (text, images, blogs)
  • Bug fixes and troubleshooting
  • Monitoring website performance and uptime
  • Updating themes, plugins, or CMS versions

Freelancers typically charge PHP 5,000–PHP 15,000/month for basic website maintenance, while agencies offer full support, faster turnaround, and additional services for PHP 15,000–PHP 50,000/month.

Do You Really Need a Developer on Retainer?

Yes, If your website frequently updates content, runs promotions, or handles e-commerce transactions, having a dedicated team ensures your site is secure, optimized, and always performing. 

How Much Does Website Development Cost in the Philippines?

The cost of website development depends on the site’s complexity, functionality, and whether you hire a freelancer or an agency. For a simple business website, working with a freelancer usually costs PHP 5,000–PHP 20,000. If you choose an agency, a small business site can run PHP 20,000–PHP 80,000, depending on design and features. E-commerce websites are generally more expensive, ranging from PHP 40,000–PHP 150,000 because they require additional functionality. Features such as product catalogs, shopping carts, payment gateways, inventory management, and security for customer data all add complexity and development time. 

Compared to global rates, Philippine developers and agencies offer high-quality services at much lower prices—often just 1/3 to 1/5 of what you’d pay in the US or Europe. This makes the Philippines an attractive option for startups and Small and Medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking professional, cost-effective web solutions.

For example, a small café website with a simple gallery and contact form may cost PHP 20,000–PHP 30,000 one-time plus PHP 1,000–PHP 2,000/month for hosting and maintenance. Meanwhile, an online store with 50 products, payment integration, and e-commerce features could range from PHP 60,000–PHP 120,000 one-time plus PHP 3,000–PHP 8,000/month for hosting, security, and ongoing developer support. 

That’s why partnering with iManila, the best website development company in the Philippines, gives your business the perfect balance of affordability, innovation, and reliability.

Final Thoughts

A website is a very useful tool for any business—it’s your 24/7 storefront, a marketing platform, and a way to connect with customers. However, its value only comes if it’s properly maintained. Neglect updates, security, or performance, and even the best website can lose visitors, sales, and credibility. For a fully secure, optimized, and smoothly running website, trust the experts so you can focus on growing your business.

Partner with iManila

With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web systems for businesses in different industries and a top digital marketing agency that provides a wide range of digital marketing services. Talk to us!

Customized vs Templated Web Design: Pros and Cons Explained

When building a website, one of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to go with a custom web design or a template web design. Both have their advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and timeline. To decide, it also helps to know what a web design company does and how they can guide you through the process.

What is a Web Design Company?

A web design company is a team of professionals who design, create, and maintain websites for businesses. Their role goes beyond making a site look attractive. They focus on user experience, functionality, branding, and performance to ensure your website truly represents your business.

Typical services include:

  • Custom Web Design – Unique layouts and features tailored to your brand.
  • Template Web Design – Pre-built designs set up quickly with some customization.
  • Website Maintenance – Keeping your site secure and updated.
  • SEO and Digital Support – Helping your site rank higher and reach the right audience.

Whether you choose a custom or template web design, working with a professional website design company ensures you get the right guidance and support.

Is Web Design the same as UI/UX?

Not exactly. Website design covers the overall look and structure of a website, including layout, colors, and navigation. UI (User Interface) is the visual side: menus, buttons, and interactive elements. UX (User Experience) focuses on how users feel when navigating your site, making sure it’s smooth and functional.

In short:

  • Web design = overall site creation
  • UI = visual interface
  • UX = user experience and usability

All three go hand in hand, but they’re not the same.

Pros of Template Web Design

  • Affordable – Budget-friendly for startups and small businesses.
  • Fast to Launch – Pre-made layouts mean you can go live quickly.
  • User-Friendly – Many templates have drag-and-drop features.
  • Wide Variety – Thousands of templates available across industries.

Cons of Template Web Design

  • Limited Customization – You’re confined to the template’s structure.
  • Less Unique – Other businesses may use the same design.
  • Scalability Issues – Not always suited for advanced features.
  • Performance Risks – Some templates slow down due to heavy code.

Pros of Custom Web Design

  • Unique Branding – Your site is built to reflect your brand and identity.
  • Flexibility – Full control over layout, features, and design.
  • Scalable – Grows with your business needs.
  • SEO-Friendly – Developers can optimize for search engines.
  • Better Performance – Clean, efficient coding for speed and reliability.

Cons of Custom Web Design

  • Higher Cost – Requires more investment than templates.
  • Longer Development – May take weeks or months to complete.
  • Needs Professional Support – Ongoing updates often require experts.

Custom vs Template: Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between custom vs template website design depends on your current needs and long-term goals.

  • Choose a Template Web Design if:
  1. You’re running a startup  with a limited budget.
  2. You need to launch quickly.
  3. You don’t require advanced features.
  • Choose a Custom Web Design if:
  1. You want a website that truly represents your brand and identity.
  2. You’re planning to scale your business.
  3. You need advanced functionality or integrations.
  4. SEO and performance are top priorities.

How Much Does a Web Designer Cost?

Costs vary depending on design type and provider. In the Philippines:

  • Template Websites: can start at  ₱20,000
  • Custom Websites: ranges from ₱50,000 to  ₱200,000

Freelancers may charge per project, while agencies like iManila offer complete packages including design, hosting, and maintenance. Investing in the right option prevents costly redesigns later.

Final Thoughts

Both custom and template website design have their strengths. The key is to align your choice with your goals and budget. A custom website gives you flexibility and uniqueness, while a template website offers speed and affordability.

At the end of the day, the most important step is to partner with the right experts.

 At iManila, we design, build, and maintain websites that help your business grow whether custom made or template based. Our team of web designers, developers, and digital specialists are here to make your online presence stand out.

Partner with iManila

With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines and recognized as one of the best web developers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web

How AI is Enhancing WordPress Development for the Future

WordPress has long been the go-to platform for building websites — from small personal blogs to large-scale business sites. It remains a favorite for entrepreneurs, creatives, and organizations thanks to its flexibility and cost-effectiveness. Now, with artificial intelligence (AI) stepping into the scene, the way WordPress sites are designed, developed, and maintained is changing faster than ever.

Smarter, More Affordable Website Creation

Is building a WordPress website free? Yes and No. The core software is completely free, but you’ll still need hosting, a domain, and possibly paid themes or plugins. In the Philippines, WordPress hosting can start as low as 100 pesos a month. While domain typically ranges from 1,000 pesos to 4,000 pesos per year. If you hire a developer, a simple WordPress website can cost 20,000 to 50,000 pesos depending on the design and features.

With AI tools automating tasks like image optimization, SEO improvements, and even generating content, many businesses are finding that they can launch a professional site faster and with fewer costs compared to traditional development.

Making DIY Website Building Easier

For those who prefer to create their own site, AI is making WordPress more beginner-friendly. Some page builders now integrate with AI assistants that can recommend layouts, generate copy, and even tweak designs in real time. You don’t need to be a developer to produce a site that looks and feels professional, and if you do need a touch of coding, AI can suggest or generate snippets for you.

Flexibility That Outshines the Competition

Other platforms, like Wix, offer built-in AI features, but WordPress still leads in customization and scalability. With the right AI plugins, you can add chatbots, advanced analytics, and personalized content experiences — all while retaining full control over your site’s design and functionality.

No Code? No Problem

While coding knowledge can still give you more control, AI is reducing the need for manual coding in WordPress. Designers and business owners can now adjust styles, troubleshoot issues, and add complex features without touching a single line of code. This makes WordPress accessible to more people while still offering depth for developers who want it.

The Road Ahead

AI isn’t just a passing trend for WordPress — it’s shaping the platform’s future. Expect to see more intelligent design recommendations, automated content personalization, and performance optimization that adapts to visitor behavior. Whether you’re building your first site or managing an already established brand, AI will play an increasingly important role in making your website faster to build, easier to manage, and more effective in reaching your goals.

At iManila, we help businesses build future-ready WordPress websites that combine smart design, SEO, and AI-powered enhancements for maximum impact. Whether you’re aiming for top search rankings or AI-driven user experiences, our team can create a WordPress strategy that keeps you ahead of the curve. Let’s future-proof your online presence. Contact iManila today to get started!

Partner with iManila

With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines and recognized as one of the best web developers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web

Website Building Guide: Costs, Tools & Pitfalls

A well-built website is more than a digital business card. It is your brand’s 24/7 representative, your sales agent, and often the first point of contact with customers. However, many businesses start web development without fully understanding the costs, tools, and potential challenges involved. The result? Unexpected expenses, missed opportunities, or a site that fails to deliver. Knowing what you’re paying for and what to avoid can save both money and frustration.

What Costs Are Involved in Having a Website?

Website costs depend on your site’s purpose, complexity, and design. Here are the essentials:

  • Domain name – Paid annually to secure your web address.
  • Website hosting – Keeps your site live and accessible.
  • SSL certificate – Provides security, especially important for e-commerce.
  • Design & development – Can range from a few hundred to thousands of pesos depending on whether you use a template or a custom build.
  • Content creation – Copywriting, photos, and videos that engage visitors.

While it’s tempting to cut upfront costs, cheap solutions often lead to higher expenses later due to fixes or redesigns.

Can You Pay Someone to Create a Website? 

Yes, and for many businesses, hiring a web design agency is the smartest choice. Agencies like iManila bring expertise in design, coding, user experience, and digital marketing.

Unlike freelancers or Do It Yourself (DIY)  platforms, agencies provide end-to-end service: planning, design, development, SEO, and ongoing support. This investment doesn’t just give you a working site, it gives you a site that performs well, builds credibility, and generates leads.

What Are the Essential Tools for Building and Running a Website?

Behind every great website are the right tools:

  • Builders & CMS: WordPress, Shopify, Wix.
  • Design tools: Figma for layouts and graphics.
  • Coding tools: Visual Studio Code for customization.
  • Analytics: Google Analytics for visitor behavior.
  • SEO tools: SEMrush, SEOptimer for rankings.
  • Security: Firewalls and malware scanners.
  • Marketing tools: Email platforms and social schedulers.

Using the right mix ensures your site stays functional, secure, and competitive.

Common Pitfalls in Website Building

Web projects often fail due to poor planning or shortcuts. Watch out for these common mistakes:

  • No clear direction – Leads to wasted time and confusion.
  • Over-reliance on DIY builders – Can limit functionality and performance.
  • Skipping mobile optimization – Risks losing mobile users.
  • Ignoring security – Exposes your site to hacks and breaches.
  • Undervaluing content – Weakens SEO and engagement.

Avoiding these pitfalls starts with a solid strategy and a focus on quality from day one.

Frequently Asked Questions About Website Building

What is the cheapest website builder?
Wix and WordPress.com are among the most affordable options for startups. However, while cheap plans get you started, they can be limiting as your business grows.

Which website builder is best for beginners?
For beginners, Wix is often the easiest to use thanks to its drag-and-drop editor. Shopify is another good option for those focusing on e-commerce.

Does Wix work in the Philippines?
Yes, Wix works in the Philippines and is widely used by small businesses. It offers local-friendly payment options and integrates with popular tools.

Final Thoughts

Building a website is both creative and technical. While a budget-friendly site is possible, cutting corners often leads to poor results. By understanding the full range of costs with setup, design, content, maintenance you can make smarter decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Whether you do it yourself or work with professionals, prioritize a website that reflects your brand, engages your audience, and supports long-term business goals.

If you want a professional, high-performing website without the stress, iManila can help. From design and development to content and custom applications, our team builds websites that don’t just look good, they deliver measurable results.

Partner with iManila

With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines and recognized as one of the best web developers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web

AEO vs SEO – Or Both? What Your Strategy Needs Today

In recent years, search engines have undergone significant changes and improvements. Businesses today face a challenge: it’s no longer just about being seen, it’s about being understood by both search engines and people. This is where Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) come in..

While most are familiar with SEO, AEO is emerging as a crucial strategy in the age of voice assistants, AI-powered search, and zero-click results. So should your business focus on SEO, AEO, or both? Let’s break down the differences, how each works, and why combining them may be the smartest move.

What is SEO?

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of improving your website to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). The goal is to drive more organic traffic by making your content discoverable, crawlable, and relevant to users’ queries.

For businesses, SEO remains a foundation of digital marketing. It builds long-term visibility, attracts qualified leads, and positions your brand as a trusted source of information.

What is AEO?

Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is about getting your content selected for direct answers in search results, such as featured snippets, AI-generated summaries, and voice assistant responses.

You’ve seen AEO in action when:

  • Google displays an accurate answer at the top of the page.
  • Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant reads out an answer to your voice query.

AEO reflects today’s zero-click environment, where users want fast, accurate answers without needing to click through multiple sites.

AEO vs SEO: What’s the Difference?

Both SEO and AEO aim to improve visibility, but their goals differ:

  • SEO: Boosts website traffic by ranking high in SERPs and encouraging users to visit your site.
  • AEO: Focuses on delivering answers directly in the search interface, often reducing the need for a click.

In simple terms, SEO attracts users to your site, while AEO focuses on delivering value in the search engine itself.  With the rise of AI-driven search and voice assistants, AEO is becoming more important but SEO is far from obsolete.

Why You Need Both SEO and AEO

Relying solely on SEO may no longer be enough. Combining both ensures your business stays visible in multiple ways.

Here’s why integrating both matters:

  1. Maximize Your Visibility on SERPs

SEO helps you rank higher, while AEO increases your chances of appearing in featured snippets, answer boxes, knowledge panels, and voice results. Together, they expand your reach across different formats.

  1. Serve Multiple User Intents

Not all users search the same way:

  • Some want in-depth information and are willing to click through.
  • Others just need quick, reliable answers.

SEO captures the first group, while AEO captures the latter. By using both, you cover all stages of the customer journey.

  1. Stay Competitive in AI-Driven Search

Search engines are evolving to prioritize direct, AI-powered answers. By optimizing for both SEO and AEO, you make sure your content stays relevant in this changing environment.

Final Thoughts

As user behavior changes, your digital strategy must adjust. SEO still drives organic traffic and remains essential for visibility. But AEO is now just as critical for securing your spot in voice search, AI-driven discovery, and zero-click results.

The good news? SEO and AEO are not competitors, they work with each other. Together, they ensure your content is found, trusted, and surfaced in the right moments.

At iManila, we help businesses craft strategies that combine SEO and AEO for maximum reach. Whether your goal is higher rankings, voice search visibility, or AI-powered discovery, our digital marketing experts can future-proof your search presence.

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With 29 years of experience in the industry and an IT company at its core, iManila, having been one of the first Internet Service Providers in the Philippines and recognized as one of the best web developers in the Philippines, is committed to providing our clients with innovative information technology, web, and digital solutions.

iManila is a full-service business web development company in the Philippines ready to help you with WordPress website creation or building an ecommerce website for your business. From web design and development and website update and maintenance, to web hosting, email hosting, and technical, desktop and remote support, we are your team. Aside from this, we are also a website and mobile applications development company specializing in customized web