I'm going back to the philippines with my iPad. Do I have to declare it?

Rule 1: Follow the laws
Rule 2: Claiming it also represents ownership in cases of loss/theft/fallacious claims of ownership

I used rule 2 in the case where I had someone claim that the game my son was carrying to the UK belonged to his son. His story sorta fell flat and he enjoyed a stop at security that was probably not of the type he desired when I showed the customs claim receipt.

What does going "back" mean in this context? Are you a Philippines resident who bought on an iPad while out of the country? If so, yes, you need to declare it and pay whatever taxes or duties are applied. If you don't, you could be subject to arrest, as it would constitute customs fraud and would be taken seriously.

If you are a US resident who is going "back" in the sense of having used to live there and now visiting, you shouldn't have to declare it as it would be part of the personal property you are travelling with.

"So I still need to pay for it even if Its for personal use? I don't have the box and stuff I'm using it for myself... Won't they just let me pass through?"

You are a resident of the Philippines, and you should know and respect the laws.

This is a topic for a discussion on an Apple user to user forum? Wow, I would've never known.

BTW, I doubt there is anyone familiar with Philippines Customs Regulations around here. The OP needs to follow the laws of his country, and if he is unfamiliar with it, get advice from someone who really knows, not the Apple Discussions. This isn't the place to seek legal help.

Each country has its own laws, but usually, you don't have to declare what is considered "personal belongings".
Personal belongings though are considered anything you own as a resident of another country for at least 6 months.
The iPad is not 6 months old, so it won't be considered personal belonging.

You will need to declare it upon arrival to the Phillippines. You will not be going thru US Customs leaving the states. Phillippines law will dictate if and how much you will need to pay.

On your way back in, you will get a form where you will need to declare all purchases bought outside of your home country. You may or may not need to also pay a duty.