Last Updated on September 23, 2025 by Richard Martin Linga
Breaking into the global SEO scene as a Filipino isn’t always easy. We often face tight budgets, slower internet speeds, and time zone differences – but we also have grit, creativity, and an eye for value.
Over the years, I’ve tested countless tools to help me stay sharp, deliver results, and punch above my weight.
Here’s a look at the exact tools I now use daily to research, write, optimize, and rank content that holds its own against the best in the business.
My Core SEO Stack (The Non-Negotiables)
These tools are the backbone of my workflow and help me cover everything from keyword research to competitor analysis, without the hefty agency overhead.
Ahrefs
My go-to tool for backlink analysis, content gap analysis, and keyword research is Ahrefs. For determining which subjects are popular and why, its Content Explorer is invaluable. In my experience, if you use it properly, even a Lite plan gives you enough to compete with premium brands.
Hemingway + Grammarly App
Content is king, yes, but clear, easy to understand content is queen! Hemingway helps me condense lengthy paragraphs and simplify sentences, while Grammarly corrects spelling and grammar. When combined, they help me write clearly and concisely, which is crucial when writing for a global audience.
VPN
When managing international SEO accounts, I constantly need to simulate local searches, view SERPs from different countries, and test geo-specific tools. A VPN helps me do all of that safely. It also encrypts my data when working remotely or on public Wi-Fi.
I only started using a VPN after reading a reliable information source to make sure my traffic stays private, no logs are kept, and my search results aren’t skewed by my actual location.
Google Search Console
GSC is crazy underrated. I use it to track which keywords are driving traffic, spot sudden drops in rankings, and even uncover content cannibalization. Best of all, it’s free and directly connected to Google.
Browser Extensions That Supercharge My Workflow
I keep my browser lean and fast (I hate cluttered views), but these few extensions always earn their spot:
- Ahrefs SEO Toolbar: Gives me quick on-page data and backlink metrics right from the SERPs.
- Grammarly: Fixes typos on the fly in Google Docs, WordPress, emails – you name it.
- Keywords Everywhere: Great for fast keyword volume checks and seeing related searches without leaving the page.
- Loom: I use this to record short video walkthroughs for clients, whether it’s a ranking report or a site audit.
- Dark Reader: Okay, not SEO-related, but a lifesaver during late-night work sessions!
- VPN: Helps me quickly access geo-restricted content and encrypts my data while I’m connected to public Wi-Fis.
Other Productivity Tools That Help Me Stay on Track
Working from the Philippines with clients in the US, UK, and Australia means I’m juggling multiple time zones and deadlines. These tools help me manage that without burning out.
Notion
My entire content calendar, SOPs, keyword plans, and client notes live in Notion. It’s flexible enough to work for solo freelancers and agency teams. Plus, the ability to link databases makes it easy to stay organized without creating silos.
Trello (for Client Projects)
I still use Trello for client-facing boards. It’s simple, visual, and intuitive, especially when working with clients who aren’t familiar with tools like Notion.
Clockify
I use this to monitor how long I spend on each task and to track billable hours for hourly clients. I can identify time-wasters before they ruin my day and maintain accountability thanks to it.
How I Choose the Right Tools
It’s simple to become overwhelmed by the abundance of SEO tools available, including Chrome extensions, lifetime offers, and free trials. Every time I tested a new app, I ended up with a cluttered browser, less money in my pocket, and an unstreamlined workflow.
But knowing how SEO is one of the most powerful tools to increase visibility and improve rankings, I remained determined to find the right combination of tools that would help me be better and rank better.
Here’s how I maintain a lean tool stack today (did I use all the right buzzwords?):
- It resolves an actual issue.
- It complements my other tools nicely.
- I don’t let it slow me (or my browser!) down.
- It is valuable in the long run.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to pay thousands in monthly SaaS subscriptions to compete on a global SEO stage, especially as a freelancer or one-man team. With the right combination of free and affordable tools – and a strong focus on execution – you can build strategies that rival those from top-tier agencies.
Being based in the Philippines doesn’t limit our impact. In fact, it can be our superpower: we’re adaptable, resourceful, and fluent in tools that let us bridge gaps in geography and resources. The key is to find what works for you, master it, and keep iterating.