Philippines 2019 for new expats

[DJ54]

I’ve been to the Philippines long ago maybe 20 yrs ago. I didn’t explore much was a business and ate a person one night. Manila seems much like most big cities like Los Angeles not easy to feel

safe. 

 

Read through an article I think was TV and from a brief read it’s

Similar in costs money needed in bank or land or?  A person would

have to go there rent a place 1-2 months and look if that’s what you want do, 

 

If the reason is money savings and English speaking that’s nit the best of reasons . Even though I know very little Thai I can sort it

out and most in the village are good people. 

 

I was a Salesman for 35 years traveling like a mad man. A truth is

dont like to talk to people much. 30 minutes is enough. I was successful because I told it as it was and no blowing smoke 

uo their ass.,. Aerospace field 

 

Anyway take a look before you jump in..... maybe in the later years 64 now it will be a finical crunch but just work it out. 

[emptypockets]

32 minutes ago, Destiny1990 said:

Yes it is only about the money according to dumb and simplistic people.

It's always about the money in the final analysis. 

Show me how it's not 

You have suddenly fallen in love with the Philippines after committing to Thailand all these years? 

[ExpatPH]

Cons:

Hospital quality and care. Not good enough for very serious conditions. Then you must fly to Singapore or Thailand.

 

Food, bland, chewy and boring. Home cooking or international restaurants are your options. Some been to local restaurants and said it was good. Still they're mostly frequent western restaurants. Go figure.

 

Internet is unreliable, you need at least 2 ways to connect to Internet. Fiber internet started last few years, in limited buildings.

 

Higher murder rate. Don't flash your money, don't start business, don't behave superior to local population. I back down in any hostile situation and being polite, same I did in TH, and I defused the situation. Live to see another day.

 

Pro's:

Visa extensions up to 36 months. No 800k. No TM30. No embassy letter. No minimum bank balance. Not required to deposit in a local bank. After 36 months, leave country for 1 day, return and start from top again. Peace of mind.

 

With similar lifestyle to TH, money last longer in PH due to weaker peso. I easy spend 65.000 THB per month in TH, I seldom spent more than 75.000 PHP per month.

 

PH Currency stays weak over years, while Thai baht only get stronger and stays higher than most foreigners can understand.

 

For foreigners with only 1500$ / 1146£ /  1331€ pension, you get a better lifestyle in PH.

 

For well off foreigners where money is no limit, you can buy a 100 million Peso luxury condo, buy your Rolls or Bentley, you can get prefered customer service (VIP) many places, banks and hospitals included. I don't say that those rich would choose PH, I'm saying that those rich would get their luxury here.

 

Feel welcome in country. No 'kwai farang' (no buffalo foreigner). No hostile attacking ladyboys. No threats from male population. No 10 locals attacking 1 foreigner.

 

English widely spoken.

 

Above is what I experienced in country, not trying to sell the place, only inform how it is here, the good and the bad.

 

PH is not similar to TH in any way. But PH is not a poor mans very last option. PH have luxury condos, fine dining, imported food, deli shop, 5* resorts, rentals on the beach, helicopter trip, luxury cars. If you have the cash, most things can be found here in PH.

 

I'm not trying to sell this place, how could I? It has many negatives same all countries has. Murder rate is #2 in south east Asia after Myanmar. Things move slowly here either it's traffic, waiting time in banks, or in hospitals. Atm's run out of money, or are offline. Many western medicines are not available or require doctors prescription. PH have 7-Eleven but not on every corner. We have imported furniture and building materials. We have very fast internet in Manila and Boracay.

 

Many expats told me they never been to Thailand, they moved straight from home country to PH. They are happy here.

I met TH expats in numbers, some like it here, others only complain and never return. They want their comfort and luxury that TH offers, even if they have to swollow a bitter pill: immigration.

 

Up to you.

 

I hope expats located in Cambodia and Vietnam will start their own thread here on Thaivisa, south east Asia section. Recent updated thorough information about those alternative destinations are needed.

 

Regards

ExpatPH

 

 

[ExpatPH]

Dating and identification card.

If you plan to date a pinay, many of them do not have identity card. You should ask first, and she should have postal identity card, or voters identity card, or passport. Only these 3 id can you trust.

Some only have student id card or express id card, these are not reliable.

Sometimes its difficult to guess a persons age.

Law states a pinay must be minimum 18 years old, strictly no exceptions.

They can lie about their age just to be with a foreigner. Do not take any chances here. Foreigners has been reported to police for beeing with a minor in public or private place. Demand identity card first when in doubt, and avoid jail.

 

Regards

ExpatPH

 

[ExpatPH]

Dating older ladies, and things you should know.

 

Most has been married, hubby left her, she want a annulment, she can't afford it. She is in the eyes of the law still married.

She tells you shes separated, you ask 'do you have a finalized annulment from Court', and she answer no. She is still legally married.

PH strict law about adultery is nothing to take likely. Anyone who see her with another man and know shes married, can report her / you, to police. You would now be in serious legal problem. 

Many dont care and date a women who are legally married, in most cases no problem. But be aware of the risk you take.

 

Regards

ExpatPH

 

[ExpatPH]

In this thread banter, what it boils down to

 

Many TH expats been to Angeles and loved it. Not many bad words about Angeles. Why? Is it because Angeles is same a mini version of Pattaya soi 6 and walking street? You like it because the many prostitutes there? Is that the only reason?

Angeles has crime, drug problem, and some poor internet and hotels. Still you dont write bad about Angeles.

Yeah, Cebu is just another mid sized city, very small limited nightlife and limited prostitution, although those who live here, can find it. That is not why we choose Cebu.

After big city polluted Manila, Cebu has the second best hospitals and imported food available. Its not for people below 50, or still need nightlife and lots of girls. Not much 'action' going on here in Cebu.

 

I dont have enough longstay in Dumaguete or Bohol or Boracay, to come with a deep in opinion, except I liked all places for different reasons.

 

Dumaguete has expat community, regular meet ups, a few restaurants with good foreign food. Dating scene is very limited and complicated there due to gossip, and only a few lame nighlife places.

 

Bohol have beautiful beaches similar to TH, foreign food was not good, no dating scene, no prostitutes, no seedy nightlife.

 

Boracay, most touristy place in the country, overload of tourists, nice modern hotels, live band on the beach. No prostitutes, has nightlife but not seedy.

 

Foreigners live all over the country, what is right for you might not be right for me. We can all choose our destination, whatever others say.

 

Regards

ExpatPH

[pgrahmm]

There's freelancers everywhere you look at Boracay.....

[ExpatPH]

Quote: Expats seem to unanimously agree that the best thing about living in the Philippines is the Filipino people. The cost of living is another thing to love. Expats share their tips and experiences living in The Philippines. End quote.

 

Link and more about it

 

https://www.expatexchange.com/ctryguide/4144/90/Philippines/Expat-Philippines-10-Tips-for-Living-in-The-Philippines

 

Survey and why expats choose Philippines.

Quote: The HSBC Expat Explorer survey is able to shed light on why the number of expats in the Philippines is increasing and what makes their new home so satisfying. When it comes to expatriates enjoying their life in the Philippines, individuals ranked the country in eighth place overall, but much higher in areas that focus on being welcomed into society. Making friends was ranked second, making local friends was ranked fourth, integrating into the community was ranked seventh, fitting in with the new culture was ranked ninth, local work culture was ranked fourth and feeling welcomed at work was ranked in first place. End quote.

 

maybe PH haters and naysayers now want to comment if they feel the same, in TH? I guess not.

 

https://www.internationalcitizens.com/blog/expat-news/number-of-expats-in-the-philippines-is-increasing.php

 

Regards

ExpatPH

[jesimps]

On 4/5/2019 at 10:02 AM, Pilotman said:

sound like a total pain to me, easier in LOS. 

I think we all realise that and not many would prefer to move to PH, but quite  a few will have no choice because the new rules won't allow them to stay here, either because they can't afford to, or can't prove their income to the satisfaction of TI. He isn't trying to sell PH to those of us who wish and can afford to stay here. PH is part of my contingency plan, along with Vietnam and Cambodia if visa extensions continue to become more onerous.

[ExpatPH]

1 minute ago, jesimps said:

He isn't trying to sell PH to those of us who wish and can afford to stay here. PH is part of my contingency plan, along with Vietnam and Cambodia if visa extensions continue to become more onerous.

 

Thank you very much, obviously you read thoroughly more than some, took notes, and understood what I'm doing here.

 

[ExpatPH]

If I was single over 55 years, and considered alternative destinations, down my list would be 'how easy is it to find a new partner'?

My answer is: incredible much easier than in TH.

Whatever your orientation is, straight, bi, gay, transgender, you will be in very high demand for serious relationship here. You can't really imagine, until you been here.

Age really does not matter here. Honestly.

 

[balo]

3 hours ago, ExpatPH said:

With similar lifestyle to TH, money last longer in PH due to weaker peso. I easy spend 65.000 THB per month in TH, I seldom spent more than 75.000 PHP per month.

According to my Filipino friends who work as teachers in Bangkok , they think it's cheaper living in Thailand than their own country! 

Maybe not because of the food, but the whole picture, for instance clothes are cheaper here so they buy T-shirts and send it back to their family in PH. Every month they send a package home to their families loaded with clothes, food and other stuff not avalable in PH.  

Of course they all tell me that rent, electricity etc is cheaper in Bangkok , but we already knew that. 
The only thing they are positive about PH are the beautiful white beaches and the nature outside the cities.

 

 

[Pilotman]

55 minutes ago, jesimps said:

I think we all realise that and not many would prefer to move to PH, but quite  a few will have no choice because the new rules won't allow them to stay here, either because they can't afford to, or can't prove their income to the satisfaction of TI. He isn't trying to sell PH to those of us who wish and can afford to stay here. PH is part of my contingency plan, along with Vietnam and Cambodia if visa extensions continue to become more onerous.

Mine is Penang. 

[mike787]

13 hours ago, madmen said:

The 5 reasons that people leave Thailand.

1, money 

2, money

3, money

4, money

5.health..broken heart

 

Whats changed ? put your 800k or 65k in and your sweet. Or are you somehow being targeted by thais? in which case you should look at your own behavior. The rest of us live in peace without any more drama than anywhere else.

We all wish it we're as easy as you stated, and you were our immigration officer, but neither is true.  As I have said before, Thai immigration is consistently inconsistent (see quote below), ie, as is opening a bank account, or crossing the border.  Nothing here happens efficiently.  You are a super member = you have read/submitted many posts.  Are you aware there are honest "good guy' expats that are tired of the mind games when renewing their visa.  The other issue is some don't want to deposit 800K, or do not have it.

13 hours ago, Jingthing said:

It's not about affording Thailand, it's the visa rules and visa changes.

There are many nations that have financial requirements well under Thailand's levels.

There is no direct relation between visa requirement financial requirements and the actual cost to live in a place.

It's dumb and simplistic to think that everyone leaving, everyone being forced out, everyone thinking about leaving because of the visa changes is leaving because they can't afford Thailand.

 

Jingthing's quote demonstrates awareness of facts.  Immigration rules have evolved over time, they were not the same a century ago.  There were some basic fundamental aspects in place but Thailand like many other countries have evolved because criminals have.  

[PhonThong]

On 4/4/2019 at 8:56 PM, ExpatPH said:

The hospitals I mentioned are all in Cebu.

Only 1-2 in Manila has good reviews from expats, with better facility and care.

 

I have a serious illness now, but I have accepted my destiny and situation, since it's on a late stage.  Operation are possible but not recommended due to high risk for heart attacks under / after operation in ICU. Also high risk of reduced life quality after, if one survive.  So I will continue live here.

If I was on a early stage, I would go for operation in Thailand or Singapore only.

 

Retired U.S. military can fly to Guam. Two military bases, same distance as flying to Thailand. Medicare and Tricare available.

[ExpatPH]

Another example of how unreasonable thai immigration are these days. Still some live in denial, others don't see the writing on the wall. Get out foreigners, you're not wanted here long term, and we do our best every quarter to make it more difficult for you.

 

 

[ExpatPH]

 

Not many happy expats in Thailand anymore.

 

Get started with your alternative relocation plan now!

[ExpatPH]

Makes the quote below more tempting, right

 

Pro's:

* Visa extensions up to 36 months.

* No 800k.

* No TM30.

* No embassy letter.

* No minimum bank balance.

* Not required to deposit in a local bank.

** After 36 months, leave country for 1 day, return and start from top again. Peace of mind.

 

Maybe not so bad after all.

[NicUnderTheSea]

ExpatPH, thanks so much for this thread. Im actually moving from LoS to Philippines (Dumaguete) next month so a lot of this is very timely and helpful.

Couple of things Id like a bit more on: 

 

Driving - licenses, renting a bike, helmet/ID stops etc - outside of the main cities obviously

 

Banking. Big one this. Really not sure whether to risk taking enough with me from Thailand to fund my first few months (initially some travel and then first month in new job) or to attempt to use my current banking provider from Thailand with its requisite OTP nonsense , or another solution yet TBA

[mike787]

6 minutes ago, NicUnderTheSea said:

ExpatPH, thanks so much for this thread. Im actually moving from LoS to Philippines (Dumaguete) next month so a lot of this is very timely and helpful.

Couple of things Id like a bit more on: 

 

Driving - licenses, renting a bike, helmet/ID stops etc - outside of the main cities obviously

 

Banking. Big one this. Really not sure whether to risk taking enough with me from Thailand to fund my first few months (initially some travel and then first month in new job) or to attempt to use my current banking provider from Thailand with its requisite OTP nonsense , or another solution yet TBA

The other thing to remember "only" if sleep is a top priority to you.  Be careful where you live.  Make sure you check the location out during the day and night for screaming roosters.  I can't f******g stand them.  One of the BIG things I loved Thailand for.  If not a problem for you, disregard. Otherwise, try to find a peaceful place (if you can).  Also, bikes are very load there, and a lot of loud music all hours of the day/night. That can be a good/bad thing or doesn't matter depending on the individual. Good luck on your move...hope it goes well...plus, enjoy the island hoping, it is amazing.

[ExpatPH]

10 minutes ago, NicUnderTheSea said:

ExpatPH, thanks so much for this thread. Im actually moving from LoS to Philippines (Dumaguete) next month so a lot of this is very timely and helpful.

Couple of things Id like a bit more on: 

 

Driving - licenses, renting a bike, helmet/ID stops etc - outside of the main cities obviously

 

Banking. Big one this. Really not sure whether to risk taking enough with me from Thailand to fund my first few months (initially some travel and then first month in new job) or to attempt to use my current banking provider from Thailand with its requisite OTP nonsense , or another solution yet TBA

 

Dumaguete is a good option. Good expat community, you meet them on 'Why Not' restaurant on the promenade (beach walk).

They have their own local forum, will look into my notes and pm you if I find it.

 

Strict police there, many checkpoints, must wear helmet. LTO there demand urin test (drug tes).

[ExpatPH]

40 minutes ago, NicUnderTheSea said:

ExpatPH, thanks so much for this thread. Im actually moving from LoS to Philippines (Dumaguete) next month so a lot of this is very timely and helpful.

 Pm sent

[rhodie]

Great thread and really good information. I think you have been pretty hard on the Philippines and still get abuse. ????  

[Destiny1990]

14 hours ago, emptypockets said:

It's always about the money in the final analysis. 

Show me how it's not 

You have suddenly fallen in love with the Philippines after committing to Thailand all these years? 

It’s all about preferences.

If i relocate to the Phillipines  i would not save any money so how is such move than purely money related?

i never said Thailand is an expensive country to live in.

I just said the rigid frequently changing visa conditions that is what i am fed up with and that is what makes me look at other options. As i said for folks under 50 years there is not even an easy 1 year visum available to be paid upfront with unlimited goings and comings so it is  just giving me an unwelcome feeling and i dont like to have that feeling.

And for the retirees i can understand they too are beginning to have enough from all the requirements i sure most these guys got 800 k its just the whole proces being over the top.

fingerprint eyescan pics hone pics wife map home moneybank book 24 hour notification 10,000?bht fines etc etc etc and that each 90 days it is not something i look forward too so yes all info about phills Cambodia and vietnam and panama I interesting with.

[Mike Teavee]

Great thread, I love the Philippines, big fan of Davao, Tagum, Cebu, Bohol & Coron but not so hot on the likes of Manila / Angeles... 

 

 

Thailand shades it for me with the standards of accommodation & food but wouldn't hesitate to consider full time in the Philippines if the visa/immigration situation continues to get worse (I've no problem leaving 800k untouched in an account or twice that, but I do have a problem if I'm going to constantly have to traipse to Immigration to show it's still there and/or do TM30s etc...)

 

 

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

2 hours ago, NicUnderTheSea said:

ExpatPH, thanks so much for this thread. Im actually moving from LoS to Philippines (Dumaguete) next month so a lot of this is very timely and helpful.

 

 

You wanna share here at all about how you've prepared for the move and generally how you're planning to proceed? Did you make any number of exploratory trips ahead of the big move trip?

 

Or are you the just "get on a plane and go" type?

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

2 hours ago, ExpatPH said:

 

 

Expat, for those who might be planning to check out the Cebu and surrounding area, can you address the issue of flight destination if coming from Thailand, in terms of whether a person would want to fly directly into Cebu, or are there any reasons to start in Manila first?

[ExpatPH]

2 hours ago, NicUnderTheSea said:

Banking. Big one this. Really not sure whether to risk taking enough with me from Thailand to fund my first few months (initially some travel and then first month in new job) or to attempt to use my current banking provider from Thailand with its requisite OTP nonsense , or another solution yet TBA

 

If your money are not on bank/visa account back in your home country, I still have a few options.

 

Previously my Bangkok bank ATM card worked in Metrobank here, but thats years ago. Email your bank.

Unsure OTP will work from TH to PH, one time password have a time limit doesn' it?

SMS from Thailand to PH can take 10 minute or 1 hour, or never. Email your bank.

You will need Roaming activated before you travel and balance for time ahead!

High risk to rely on OTP. 

 

1. You can maximum bring with you 10.000$ equal to 520.000 peso here. Higher amount require that you report it on Customs form given inflight, go on 'red' at customs, and maybe more requirements. Possibly documentation where founds came from, or advanced approval, don't know. Personally I would not risk carry more than 2000$. That said, 520.000 peso would normally last 7-10 months for many average expats here, if you take that risk.

 

2. Transfer with WU from Thailand to yourself in PH. Since you probably dont have a PH local cellphone number, you can use 'secret question, and answer, on transfer form, and passport number as well.

 

3. Transfer via Zoom.

 

And maybe others will come with more.

[ExpatPH]

23 minutes ago, TallGuyJohninBKK said:

 

Expat, for those who might be planning to check out the Cebu and surrounding area, can you address the issue of flight destination if coming from Thailand, in terms of whether a person would want to fly directly into Cebu, or are there any reasons to start in Manila first?

 

1. You fly direct to Cebu to save 6 hours time.

2. You fly via Manila to avoid customs, or need a smoke, designated area located at parking area.

Choose what's best for you.

3. Some like Manila, others hate the busy overloaded city. Not for me personally.

 

Before choose any destination, look youtube videos before travel, come on 29 days stay first. Never move anyplace directly without due dilligence, and already been in country.

 

[ExpatPH]

2 hours ago, rhodie said:

Great thread and really good information. I think you have been pretty hard on the Philippines and still get abuse. ????  

 

Really appreciate positive feedback, thank you.

I try be balanced and honest. In addition I mentioned a few times our local forums, so people can get other opinions, different from mine. Balanced all the way.