To the TS: Stay away from carbureted cars. It gives poor gas mileage as compared to EFI engines of the same or maybe even higher displacement. For your budget I'd suggest the Honda City Type-Z VTi. City means that this car is reliable, low maintenance and gives good gas mileage. VTi means that this car ain't no slouch.
This one looks OK: 2000 Honda City Type Z VTEC - MT Philippines - 3630846

*red7: Yes, if you have the budget the ES Civic is a nice car. the 2.0i-VTEC variant is very fast, but gas mileage is rather dismal. Get the VTi-S as it has the frugal and quick 1.6L VTEC3 engine, dual airbags, 4 wheel disc brakes and ABS/EBD. It'll be best to get it in M/T form for best gas mileage.
This one's not bad: Honda Civic MT - 05 - Cars for sale NCR - AyosDito.ph