By Coach Jeff Alagar, NASM Physique and Bodybuilding Coach and ISSA Certified Nutritionist. Updated November 2026.
BMI is weight in kg divided by height in metres squared. For Asians, including Filipinos, a BMI of 18.5 to 22.9 is considered normal and 23 or higher is overweight, lower than the WHO cut-off of 25.
How this bmi calculator works
The calculator shows both the global WHO categories and the lower Asian cut-offs, because Asians tend to carry more body fat and metabolic risk at the same BMI. BMI does not separate muscle from fat, so muscular people often read as overweight while lean.
Frequently asked questions
Is BMI accurate for people who lift weights?
Not very. Use waist-to-height ratio or a body fat estimate alongside it.
What BMI does the DOH use?
Philippine health programs commonly use the Asia-Pacific cut-offs: normal 18.5 to 22.9, overweight 23 to 24.9, obese 25 and above.
Related calculators
These calculators give general estimates for healthy adults and are not medical advice. If you are pregnant, under 18, or have a medical condition, ask your doctor before changing your diet or training.
