So you are going to spend all that money just to get there then haggle over a $35 taxi ride...1500 PHP is about $34.60 USD. If your budget is that tight, wait six months and save a "little" more money...
What a condescending attitude!
1500php should get you 5x around the entire Metro Manila. It's a gross rip-off. It may mean nothing to you, but throwing your money around and fulfilling the stereotype of the dumb American tourist only serves to further encourage gross over-charging of visitors to the Philippines. That, ultimately, damages the Philippines and the way visitors view the place and people.
Airport taxis are pre-arranged before you leave arrivals. They are pre-agreed prices, which are substantially higher than the proper meter rates of regular taxis. However, it's hard to get a regular taxi from the Airport (you'd have to tramp outside and over the road)... and even then, the regular taxi drivers will peg you for a foreigner and probably refuse to put the meter on (which is technically illegal).
Some general advice and tips for visiting the Philippines:
Philippines Travel Advice | Scuba Diving | Holiday Information
My top tip for accommodation is
Howzat Inn, in Makati nr Burgos/Rockwell. 20 minutes from the Airport. It's linked to a great restaurant and sports bar, that's very popular with local Manila expats. Rooms are very clean and have microwave, kettle (rare to get that here), cable TV, air-con, mini-safe, good wifi, and room service from the resto downstairs etc etc.. The deluxe room is only 1350php per night...