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My wife set the boundaries for her family without even telling me. We provide them with employment and occasional treats such as short trips and dinners, but not handouts. She made it clear from the outset that if they start pushing for handouts for nothing she told them quite firmly they will be totally cut off, lose their jobs with us and any other benefits. Part of her philosophy is that she was the one who sacrificed everything to work overseas in order to support her family. It just so happened that she met and married me. This seems to have worked so far. Incidentally, I have never had any problems at immigration here. The longest we have ever spent at an immigration office is 2 hours. Yesterday we were fast tracked because, apparently, we are considered 'regulars', always come prepared with the relevant paperwork/documents and are polite to officials who are just doing their jobs. I would say that our experience at immigration in the Philippines is on a par with what we went through when we lived in Hong Kong, and the authorities there are ultra-efficient - providing you are prepared.
That's a great thing you have going with your wife. Boundaries are important and it's good to know that you've never had problems with immigration here.
Joshua, firstly your wife went overseas and provided for her entire family. Why did your wife marry u and not a filipino ? cos you are hot ? U do support her entire family by providing employment. What your wife has done, is empowered her family with an income via you dude and sacrificed herself. The family is the number one prority. Secondly " . The longest we have ever spent at an immigration office is 2 hours " The point this guy was making is that u do not have to leave your home to get a visa in the west. In the Phils is a manual process. When I read your story, I see a guy being totally manipulated by a pinay. In your mind u think u got it a great.
@@craigk2644 I appreciate your input, my friend. All relationships are essentially contractual.I don't know many western guys whose wives marry them because they are 'hot'. They usually have to bring something else to the table. My wife is with me because I provide her with a life and a lifestyle she couldn't otherwise have had. Don't you think I don't know that? If I were poor i wouldn't be in the picture. However, ultimately we are happy, we have a satisfying life, we have money and we have no worries. My Western wife dumped me/drifted away because I didn't fit in with her lifestyle - I despised her banker friends who were effectively culturally illiterate, mercenary arseholes, racist and stupid who bored me shitless so I refused to associate with them. And, by the way, I am pretty hot, all things taken into consideration. I am fit, muscular, well-toned and without an ounce of fat on me. I boxed for 30 years, I still work out regularly and walk 10km a day. The local chicks flirt with me until the learn of my wife's existence and then they back away. I suggest, my friend, that before you make derogatory comments that you actually understand exactly what you are commenting on.
@@joshuarizalforeman816 I smiled with your reply. U r one of the few who understand. Is true I made a conclusion based on little info. I don't mind being put straight by a person who has their head screwed on correctly. Fortunately was only text otherwise you'll practicing those boxing skills upon my torso. Would u agree there are many foreigners who marry and yet are being manipulated. I am sure u have seen with your own eyes.
If you are not moving to the PH for the adventure and culture, don't go. If you are not going to visit or vacation before moving to the PH before you move, don't go. If you expect everything in the PH to be the same as your home country, don't go. If you have no patience and trigger easy, don't go. just saying....
I was sent to the Philippines for work and I was kind of worried about going. But I found it to be an amazing place and although I am now working in another country, I'm still planning to return there in the future :-)
I am a Filipino living in the Philippines, and the way you presented facts about the country is impeccable. People outside the country have to see the truth so they will have realistic expectations. Dont get me wrong, my country is beautiful and the people are wonderful, but it is not like the paradise that we have created in our fantasies. It has its downsides and one must prepare himself completely to adjust to it before deciding to set-foot in the country. Wonderful content!
I think he's just telling the truth, especially on part of marrying "the whole Filipina family". Not a lot of western guys support their own family. At young age, they already learned how to be independent and not to ask help from their parents, nor parents continues to support them especially on finances. Filipinas, it's good to set boundaries especially in terms of finances.. Kudos to those marriages that seems to be successful. God bless you guys.
@@elizabethprice5916 I am a Filipino but I dont agree with it either. I understand of course the need to support older parents, as unlike in the US our elderlies here do not have insurances that they can count on, neither the government is providing sufficient subsidies for them. So I consider it a privilege to take care of my parents in their old age and provide for them. BUT supporting the entire CLAN is an entirely different story. We must discourage all forms of dependency for it makes people less empowered to make certain choices that will greatly affect their lives.
The key to staying in the Philippines is to live there part time. I stay until I feel like any one of your points get to me. I try to keep Phil as fresh as possible so I look forward to returning. If I stay too long it becomes too much of a drag as I'm so used to efficiency.
That is the key and my plan to do in future. Meeting a girl there is making your life easy , but a genuine one, not internet dating, no move in asap, study from distance the person. And yes if you live 2 or 3 years there mire than that is boring. And the key is part time.
Great advice on the expectations. I’ve fallen into the trap myself of comparing everything in the Philippines to how things are in the US. The less comparing you do, the better it gets. Just need to accept it for what it is.
I left The Philippines for two reasons: 1) the high cost of my medications and medical care in general. 2) education of my dependent grandson You are right the inconsistencies are hard to deal with times. Poverty is not easy to deal with. Dealing with the whole family is sometimes not easy. Infrastructure can also be problems. You are right, the islands can have unrealistic expectations. Visa problems and paying bills can be tough.
The Filipinas, the friendly locals, the good enough English, are the top 3 and not even the beaches would count as the main reasons why foreigners choose the country and yes, helping the family is Not At All the obligation of the foreigners married to Filipinas. Those that help do it out of their goodness, but the Filipinos shouldn't take advantage of this. Unfortunately, it happens and in this case some foreigners leave. And they can't be blamed. I feel for them. This Filipino thing sucks Big Time!!!!
I am planning to move to the Philippines. I've been there, and the whole point is it is very different than where I live in the US, and frankly I live in the city, and I am fed up with the unfriendly, selfish, society around me
New Clark City is one of the projects for the future in the PH. I think you should look that up. It'll probably gonna be a new BGC (or similar level of importance) in the near future. Knowing that the railway train station (funded by many multinational entities both inside and outside the country), connecting both NCR and New Clark City is going to be a new boom in the near future (latest update, is around 54% completion). It's new, mostly green, and seeing the focus those multinational entities have for this area, the potential of this place is definitely high. Looking into it now, you could give plans ahead (awareness) for those willing to invest and join this subtle, but a powerful movement from our country. Knowing economics, even if the country is willing to invest and the intial phases are complete but the people who were willing to join, risk and took up foundation on building a stronger economy to this place that'll connect to the main cities wouldn't be that many, then the project could wholly be deemed as a failure, if the initial growth wouldn't be up to standards.
Hey! Good info… I’ve been going to the Philippines for 20 years and love it. I hate the city and love the Provinces! I live in Puerto Galera and love the laid back lifestyle. I set financial boundaries with my wife and even though there’s been problems, nothing that can’t be overcome.
Interesting and informative as always. I love the Philippines, and have visited 2-3 times a year since 2014. I’ve never really considered living there full time until recently. The West is becoming such a mess now.
The thing about supporting a Pinay's whole family is so true. My mother is from Mindanao (southernmost region of the Philippines) and left in the mid 60s. Some of my Filipino relatives are upset at us because we don't do balikbayan (literally 'return to the country', but are gift boxes or money given back to family in the Philippines by relatives overseas). My relatives claim we have a duty to support the family, and since we are "rich" Americans, we should help. My mother's response is that her duty is to _her_ family, not theirs. I also have heard many horror stories of Filipino families taking advantage of their own relatives. So be warned folks.
SBMA Subic is almost like living back in the States. That is mostly because it is the former Naval Base three hours north of Manila. Decent condos and apartments, stores and malls, restaurants, wide roads with traffic laws strongly enforced, beautiful beaches, a major hospital, and many other amenities. Plus, you have all of Olongapo/Subic right outside the gates. Plenty of experienced expats around too, if you want that support. It's going to be expensive living there, though.
I was stationed at Clark AB in 1978 and have seen the Philippines when it was much poorer and less developed. When I was there we didn’t try to change anything but lived with what was presented and enjoyed the people and culture. I lived in Panama and the culture is very similar in family relationships and customs reflecting their Spanish histories.
All people not only expats or former pinoy citizens LEARN TO SAVE MONEY FROM PENSIONS, business etc. for future medical expenses and basic needs. But most prefer to go back and forth from their country of origin. That’s the best thing to do for me to AVOID SHORTAGE OF MONEY.
I have been here 13 years and find that the key to being is throwing away our western expectations. ADAPT, ADAPT, AND ADAPT SOME MORE! Money can solve a lot of these issues by creating a bubble around you that will insulate you against the things that you can't deal with. If you don't have at least 1500 USD you will experience difficulty creating your "safe-space". It's not to say you can't live on less but hey if you think you are going to live like a king you got to have the gold. As to medical care. . .I have found that not to be the case for most non-life-threatening issues, for my wife and me. Every man is responsible for researching the place before buying that ticket and these channels really help.
I used to tell people I can live like a king in the Philippines for a couple thousand dollars a month, then I realized kings don't usually have a multi cab limo in their motorcade, and their entourage is not usually two dozen hungry kids and several stray cats lol😀
I have been going to the Philippines since 2009 every year up to 2019 when the pandemic started. I would be there now full time if it was for being vaccinated. Love the Philippines!
@@TheSavvyExpat I read a comment somewhere that the best place to survive in the next couple of years would be a sailboat. Elon Musk might have given up his mansions, but not his submarine. The Globalist need a world war to maintain the petrodollar. I concluded that when that eventually happens Uruguay in the northern countryside would be the safest place. Everyone is welcome with no restrictions and citizenship after five years. I happen to enjoy grass fed, grass finished steaks too.
I have a condo in Manila, very close to all the good hospitals and I can get the pharmacy stuff I need but I'm not a hundred percent sure I can get it all the time that being said I'm going to spend about eight months of the year in New York and the rest in the Philippines splitting my time between the condo in Manila and a house out in Oriental Negros, I should be okay for medicine is l But it is a concern for many people especially those of us who needs specialist
Thank you for your candor, Evan. I need to hear the good and bad about living in the Philippines. This helps me know that I could only live in BGC/ Makati, or maybe even in Cebu City. So glad to have you reconfirm for me that those places are like modern western cities (infrastructure, amenities).
I suffer from depression and anxiety and I wanted to move to the Philippines exactly because of that, I think the warmth and the positivity of the people will help me with the depression and adapting to the Filipino time will help me with the anxiety. I am just unsure about the treatment I can get there. Can you give me your opinion, please?
I’m currently in the Philippines. Most of the people here are friendly but like anywhere you’ll get your rude ones. Also I’ve learned that not everyone is good in English most just know the basics so you won’t be able to have deep conversations with some even though you want to. I would say vacation here first before you decide making a big move.
@@Chr1s808 thank you for your insight. I don’t speak English so well myself, since it’s not my native language but I want to learn Tagalog. And yes, my plan is to visit there for one month this year, to feel the place, and return to my country so I can continue my work until I have enough money for the move. I won’t be moving too fast.
@@Guilhermealmeida. Yes just as Chris mentioned just visit and see how you like it. Not sure what treatment you're using but I think the pace of life and getting away for a bit will help your anxiety.
I think the reason I will really like being in the Philippines it's because I'm going to be sharing my time with it in America that of course could always change but not staying somewhere too long is the best way to like it. Long lines are best dealt with by your wife..
Evan, other than bgc… we got ayala alabang …quezon city …ortigas… newport… aseana / mall of asia area… those places are also like bgc. Not exactly the same but almost… maybe you would want to tour them around those places too. Or maybe bgc is your expertise.. :) anyhoo. Good point. I call this video a net. It simply catch the people with bigger hearts for the country and patience.. and let go of people who dont :) so we need not be sad for people who left. People who might have stayed have longer patience thus best for the country :)
Great way to put it Ruby. And absolutely, the places you mentioned are great - Alabang and Ortigas being one of my favorites. But as you mentioned, BGC is the city I'm most knowledgeable on so I speak on it the most as to not give false info on the places I don't know about.
Problem with those cities is you drive one kilometer or not even a kilometer you see high rise and then barong barong or dilapidated/ very old ugly houses/ buildings and very narrow streets and trash. In western countries, it is not the case, you have to intentionally drive to those poverty stricken places. You do not see dilapidated ugly, uncoordinated colored buildings, houses in your daily drive to work, shopping, going to church, going to school, going to park, etc. It is frustrating to see poverty stricken areas close to your home, sorry to say that . I am a Filipina and I love the Philippines, when I come home to the Philippines I always say there is no place like home, I love it but praying for the government to improve the life of our kababayans and the sceneries surrounding every Filipinos' home.
@@sandan778 i think u are mistaken… you need not get out of the bubble anyway… everything u need is within that 200 plus hectare of land in bgc. Ayala alabang is even bigger… its still ok sometimes to see poor places because it refreshes ur look in life and makes u appreciate where u live more. It actually does not bother me. I live in a 5 hectare condo.. complex… and the diversity in what u see refreshes u in a way. Because u wont appreciate it if u are used to seeing it. My place is very beautiful but after a while it really didnot matter. I lived in that poor stricken area u are talking about because i rented my unit to chinese and its the only available that time.. in a way to profit.. for extra buck while waiting for my flight to singapore…since i dont want to live with my parents..then the pandemic hit…its not barong barong but there are places near it that is like that… once u get to know the people surrounding u… it really does not matter. They are poor yes but they are very helpful and respectful. Some maybe difficult and drunks. But it never made me felt lonely unlike living in a condo or gated house… where people dont go out… its happier in those places esp in new years and xmas… u really just have to know the people before judging by the looks of it. I never felt lonely there with their speakers blasting.. and dogs and children. Our place was not barong barong but its near. Like this street is okay the next street is barong barongs. U dont need to drive to get what u need and the market usually is just a walk away compared to condo and gated houses.
@@rubycebreros2330 For you who is used to seeing it, you were desensitized, but for one who lived most of their lives in developed countries who had not seen kids with no clothes and living in houses almost like the house of their dogs in developed countries, it is frustrating and disabling. It makes you feel uncomfortable in your own place. Western people are not used to seeing poverty that bad. I am not talking about safety and the kind of people living there. I am talking about the poverty you see which to me is not pleasant to see at all.
@@sandan778 its alright. Im guessing the govt is on its tracks little by little relocating the people elsewhere.. its gradual because you cant uproot everyone all at the same time.. there had been huge development since my college days. The squatters in magallanes makati was the first one i saw relocated.. so far i noticed many riverside dwellers in zapote las pinas has been taken off.. and many lands has been reseized from informal settler.. by owners.. cbeing converted in condominiums and govt developments. Esp during this administration. There are millions still living in slums but once they converted it to condo u cannot return it to being squatters anymore.. its gradual but its getting there. Many many condos todays used to be squatters area.. it was such because many land owners did not care about their properties and check it up if there are people starting to occupy it. But i saw massive changes and it will continue to change if there is enough demand for the use of the debated lands… these lands are prime property if the right amount is agreed upon and relocation starts… you can never convert it back. It is a slow process but its getting there.. before. There was no demand for anything luxurious in the phils. We dont have functioning economy from after marcos era. Because of tooo much destabilization being done by forces like NPA. With the help of the govt now and support of the people… abolishing oligarchy will eliminate slumming since all the oligarchy wants is for low labor and high profit so they profit from slavery of the poor people of the phils.. imagine the salary here is really for survival only.. so we cant blame the people for being poor. What really needs to be done is to let people with money invest here.. so there will be demand for those land and the govt will have budget for relocations and making infrastructure. Now people are complaining about the debts pf the country bec it was used to create so many infrastructure watch all of it in the unbiased reports of finished projects. The govt is moving.. many things have been overturned like boracay and manila bay. All so that the investors will invest in us. The more investment the more land needed and more relocation for those poverty stricken people. Does it sound like a plan?? Or are we just gonna whine about it in soc media bad mouthing ignorant remarks on soc med. wht evans doing here is promoting the country to have more investment but you are contributing the opposite . We need good words for good investment for good economy.
😂 I found it funny when you talked about the infrastructure. Because I live in a western place but the infrastructure was better in the Philippines only the internet was worse.
Bro, all of your assessments need to be incorporated into the welcome brochure for expats coming into the Philippines to live. I've been living here for five years and coming here on and off for the last thirty years. Everything you indicated is biblical truth.
Reason number 2 is HUGE and exactly on point. Family is everything to Filipinas and as bad as it sounds, the female's "job" is to support the whole entire family. Being from the U.S. it isn't like that at all. Once you leave home then the rest of the family is pretty much on their own to make it. As you said, a visit for a few days every now and then is acceptable but don't expect us to support the whole family forever. Fortunately for me, my Filipina wife of 36 years told her family outright we weren't going to support them. Thank goodness for that. Totally different expectations on both sides that can lead to arguments for sure if you're expecting to just "get the girl" and never mind about her family.
After 3 years of dating , I broke up with my Filipina gf for that reason. I couldn’t possibly take care of her entire family. The most annoying thing is some of her cousins would stop by our house unannounced to ask me for money.
1. Marrying a woman here in the Philippines also marrying the whole family. It's very true. Even the locals here can't escape that rule. If you marry a woman with 12 brothers and a sister, no mater how far you bring your wife out of their original home. the family will still catch you and somehow live with you one relative at a time and sometimes 2 or three for a year of vacation. 2. INFRASTRUCTURE. It's still a big problem. When a tourist came for a visit to one of the beautiful beaches, they can not go directly to that place,because there's no airport available there. They still have to land first at the main airport and experience the long lines, toilets without papers, and you will meet people at the immigration counter , to greet you a "merry christmas" in September
Excellent channel! Type A guys and also if you tend to be a loner (Not an extremely social person)...then probably not going to work out. Fun and a great place to revive appreciation for your home country.
I have been living the province for 15 years now and it is a great place. But a few things I have found painful is the Medical System (frightening experience), brown outs (power out for many hours), being seen as someone who can be charged 'extra' for almost any service. My biggest headache is the simple things that never seems to get done properly, fix the car or get some painting done I always find the quality of work is very poor. Very true about visa headaches and corruption is hard to take when it is right in front of you!
Howdy my young intelligent brother blessings and, and the reason why im coming to the Philippines is the, one, what you said about marrying her entire family, I don't mind because i don't have my family at all(buried everyone sad)and my fiance family i FaceTime every day, secondly, ive been in nyc my entire life, tired of snow, rain cold, and B.S. So i absolutely am ready for a change..also..blessings always my young brother, hopefully our paths will cross, so i can thank you in person blessings and grace always my young brother 🙏
Thanks for the heads up on the long lines at Immigration, atms, and grocery stores. Looks like I will need a girlfriend/wifey, or an actual maid to do the waiting for me.
The fact is he’s being really nice but ultimately right. It’s when they stack up on each other and creates and compounding effect. It all adds up and becomes too much. There’s a lot of reasons.
I wasn't allowed into the main Bureau of Immigration building because I was wearing shorts. Just a couple of blocks away I found a used clothing store. I returned to the BI wearing a pair of blue jeans with Disney cartoon characters on the pockets. They let me in. Only in the Philippines.
@@FRANCISPOLLARD-r3pThat's the Filipino-cultural perspective. No one is debating that that's the perspective. It sounds like the OP is simply disagreeing that this should be the case.
I explained to my wife early on that the more of our money she gives away the less we have for us. She still helps which is ok with me but is cautious about it.
Hi Evan. My mom and I are dual citizens. My parents and I have considered moving to the Philippines. My father would like to know if there is any chance that they will bring back the retirement visa?
I had to leave when a predator was hunting me. To escape I had jumped out the window of trion towers in bgc. Luckily I had landed on a mango tree. I grabbed a few mangoes to take with me on a ride with grab to the airport. Maybe some day I’ll go back but I can’t afford gas anymore…
Why I left the Philippines: - Unreliable internet (video calls are important for me). - So many beggars, and persistent ones that approach you. - Overall less feeling of safety (compared to Thailand). - Long lines everywhere. However, that was just based on 1 stretch in Cebu City. I want to come back and try BGC next time.
Keep up the great vlogs😊 Is it possible to hire a local to wait for you in line and pay them when they get to the front? I have a Filipino friend who waited in line 25 hours for the Dept of Foreign Affairs to get clearance to work overseas. I felt so bad for her as she was texting me of hunger, thirst and fatigue.
If the public transportation is anything like NYC, then it wouldn't suck. Maybe try it out over assumption. You just might realize it's cheaper & a much better way to travel. When I drove for Uber here in NYC, I used to tell everyone, if it makes more sense to ride a donkey or mule around & up the the mountain side, then take the best means of transport bc it makes sense. Just a thought off of your thought.
@Gerry badders Yes, it’s cheap and all but I’m just saying I’m going to miss just being able to go in my own vehicle and drive to wherever I want and whenever I want. Also I don’t want to rely on public transportation if I was to go on a date or bring my family grocery shopping, it’s just not convenient to have to carry a lot of groceries on a train, bus, or taxi/grab vs having your own vehicle.
Hire a driver. It's very cheap. And he will know all the best routes and best places. He can help you negotiate and save you money as well as save you from getting ripped off. Just be sure to treat him well.
@Con Descending you can speak to friends, neighbors, relatives. Or you can use one of the employment agencies, but that will cost you a little more. When you find someone you like, you can offer them something more permanent. It's up to you. But really, drivers are everywhere. Some of them are much better than others. That's why it's good to ask around.
@@TheSavvyExpat They need a psychologist to find out why they feel the need to change their body. The first person I thought of was Michael Jackson and how he struggled with that problem.
@@BrooklynsFinest34 My Radiation Oncologist at Barnes hospital said What is wrong with your skin. It's so dark. Having a construction company I use to spend a lot of time out in the sun. Now at 74 I can no longer produce vitamin D3 from the sun so I take 10,000 IU of D3 everyday I eat.
I've been living here, in Metro Cebu, but in the province, barely, for 15 years. I've never returned to the USA, I'm about to be 67, my daughter visited in 2019, she met her stepmom and the little sister that she's always wanted. I'm proud to say that not one of these applies to me. But I also did my research before moving here, 2 years of it. I'm retired military and I moved here with the intent to quit working, only that, mission accomplished. I wouldn't move 100 miles for a female, much less to the other side of the planet. I had no interest at all in becoming involved with a woman from a poor family here. And it just so happens that I was introduced to a woman from a lower-middle-class family before I even moved here. I met her when I was here doing a recon a year prior to moving, just to ensure that I could indeed live here, I had never been to the Philippines before. I married her when I moved here and her family doesn't expect anything from me, other than what they would expect from another son-in-law. We've helped family members when it was needed, and that's been extremely rare. Internet was rough when I moved here. But it worked and it's definitely not a problem now. Power outages have been rare here for at least a decade. And I've not had any issues with healthcare. Visa extensions, 13a, Annual Reports, I've never spent more than 2 hours at the BI here. I did my Annual Report last month and it took about 45 minutes. I have no place to be, all day to get there, so that's not a problem. I love the Philippines and its people. I've traveled quite a bit here, but I've never even been to Metro Manila other than passing through on a bus to visit Baguio City in 2006. I flew back, so the Port of Manila and the domestic side of the airport. I do however want to visit BGC, more specifically the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. I plan to die in the Philippines, hopefully, later than sooner. I have a 14-year-old daughter, never thought that I would say that again, that I need to get through college before I go.
@Con Descending When I am in Mindanao I get home sick, missing the quaint charm of the nightly gun shots in south east Denver. It's all good in tha mile high 'hood.
I strongly encourage you to make it to the American Cemetery. We spent several hours there our last trip thru Manila. It is very moving for everyone, but for those of us who are former/retired military it has a special resonance in our hearts. Especially when we have older family who served thru-out Asia in WWII.
1 reason for me personally Weather weather weather 2 a slower pace 3 to experience a different life style Food culture 4 to escape the trap of the communist Political theories in the west
Like your comments..true...but again it depends on who you got involved with. The good, the bad and the ugly....and i was lucky to be with the 'good' for the six years. The magic word is patience or as they say "pasensia"....
Can you please share where you found out about Makati Medical Center and St. Luke's Medical Center (BGC) being the two best hospitals in the Philippines? I've seen lists of the top hospitals in the world and while those two ranked high in PH, Philippine Heart Center or Philippine General Hospital ranked higher than that.
Hi! Philippine Heart Center and Philippine General Hospital are Government (Public) Hospitals that cater to the general public. They also do have good facilities and good healthcare workers, but the wait time is long. Makati Medical Center and St. Luke's Medical Center are private hospitals, which means you'll get accommodated immediately, provided you have the finances for it. That's mainly why I think he put those two hospitals on this list for Expats :)
You should see the facilities of St Luke's. They can rival the medical facilities of the best hospitals in Western countries (they have PET Scans, Robotic surgery, etc). Medical City Manila is also a good hospital
That's why as a Filipino, I have never thought of getting married anymore since I witnessed the foolish family culture here that really sucks, like families expect the in-law to help them financially, that's an ultimate robbery! Maybe only my blood is Filipino but my mind is never, because I can't take many foolish values here especially that foolish family culture. I have learned the value of individualism, so I am not really into groupism.
That is true. Although the Philippines is progressing, it's still pretty slow at the same time. Vietnam recovered from the way faster than ph in peace.
So true, but I'm not an expat....like you I am Fil-Am. Born there but grew up in the states, and I am planning to retire there in 3 years with my wife who is also Filipina. I like that you are straight up about stuff, live in the Philippines for the right reasons and be sure of who you partner with and be willing to adapt to surroundings. Most vlogs here on YT show the beauty of Philippine nature and they are mostly foreigners who grew up or go to school there, tourists or travel vloggers. Foreigners that vlog about the Philippines are treated well by Filipinos and getting subscribers is a lot easier. Been back and forth the US and the Phil. a lot so there are no surprises for me. We plan to live in Cebu city where Cebu Doctors and the 2 Chong Hua are top notch..certainly St. Lukes in Manila is up to American standards too. I am working in the healthcare field here and mostly ICU care so I can tell if care is subpar. Your vlogs are informative man..so keep it up. Being young is such a big advantage for a RUclipsr. Going back to the Phil. early next year to plan and maybe reserve a pre-selling condo near a big mall and a major hospital. It would be also great to hang with my family too. I have more there than in the states. We plan to come home to the states maybe once or twice a year since our daughter takes care of our home here, besides still gotta file for taxes in the US. Hopefully being a dual citizen won't take so long. So, I can't wait. Keep up the good work big guy!
Lol I so don't need to worry about number 1. I don't drive (New Yorker here) but I do need reliable internet and electricity. I can deal with inconsistency especially when I'm not in a rush. I've stayed in Hong Kong on and off since the 90s so I've seen stuff like you were described. I also don't have meds either, so that's not a concern. I like the lack of hurry. I'd also get a maid ;-D. But yeah it may not be for everyone.
The only thing I would say is after living in PI was I didnt like the healthcare. I would go to Thailand to see a doctor. If you dont live in metro-manila you can run into infrastructure problems.
Well number two through 10 I can understand I’ve personally been here for years I was able to get through all that stuff what’s your number one reason that you came up with I don’t understand why on gods earth any guy would leave if the relationship didn’t work out I mean my god there’s a heart perfect 10 babe on every block of this country if things don’t work out with one like within five minutes you have yourself another perfect tan waiting right around the block for you I mean it’s really that easy so that would be crazy if your girlfriend didn’t work out of your wife didn’t work out you snap your fingers and you’ve got another girl but hey maybe that’s just me
Thank you for discussing this very important topic. I previously heard/read that for Americans that spend less than 51% of their time in the Philippines, though, health care insurance companies may not allow these Americans to purchase health insurance at the lower international rates. Additional clarity on this issue would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Dude, there are places other than BGC and Makati that are considered up to par with Westerners. I’ll let you find out which ones yourself for the challenge. 🤙🏾
It is a great country but for many reasons it is lagging behind other countries in the region. From basics like reliable internet to complex matters like scenario planning the distribution of aid after calamtites or just simple stuff like DSWD distribution.
I married a Filipino (a gay marriage) and he scammed me big time. I also allowed him to scam me because I thought I was doing the honorable thing. We separated three years ago and he just recently asked me for a divorce. He found another sugar daddy, younger and wealthier than I - an Australian bloke. He plans on moving there in August of this year (2022). I plan on returning to the Philippines next year to see if this emotionally painful baggage has healed enough to make me want to find a new partner. This time I'll look for someone not into Gucci, Christian Dior or Versace. A closing note: I refused to grant him a divorce because the act of him asking me has triggered all the anger and resentment that has built up these past years. Of course I'm sure he can find a legal way to get it but I'm not going to spend one more ounce of energy (or dollars) helping him "move on" with his life. I understand all of this is TMI, LOL.
your biggest mistake was marrying a filipino. For them, Westerners are giant dollar signs with legs. And Filipinos, being a very non confrontational culture, think westerners are too stupid to notice and won't say anything. They bank on western ignorance to get ahead in life.
I stay out of relationships here it's nothing but a gigantic headache for me yeah the infrastructure in most places here really aren't the best and I hate brownouts they can last almost a whole day at times more common in the province areas and too much rain here
married to a filipina from iloilo for 35 years i was introduced to the philippnes by the us military too many peeople try to make the PI like the states lol big mistake.
The visa issues would likely be why I wouldn't be able to retire there. Unless I could get a long term visa, I don't think living there would be an option for me.
They are pretty nice ppl overall, my buddy married a pina and i luv her shes awesome. She rides a harley Davidson shes badass a solid woman, works a great job.
Just got here a month ago I love it 🥰 thing is even if you dont like it here you save a lot of money to travel around different countries the possibilities are endless
So close to 10,000 subscribers! Thank you Savvy Expats.
Download Your FREE Guide For Moving to BGC, Philippines:
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@@TheSavvyExpat sounds awesome!
My wife set the boundaries for her family without even telling me. We provide them with employment and occasional treats such as short trips and dinners, but not handouts. She made it clear from the outset that if they start pushing for handouts for nothing she told them quite firmly they will be totally cut off, lose their jobs with us and any other benefits. Part of her philosophy is that she was the one who sacrificed everything to work overseas in order to support her family. It just so happened that she met and married me. This seems to have worked so far. Incidentally, I have never had any problems at immigration here. The longest we have ever spent at an immigration office is 2 hours. Yesterday we were fast tracked because, apparently, we are considered 'regulars', always come prepared with the relevant paperwork/documents and are polite to officials who are just doing their jobs. I would say that our experience at immigration in the Philippines is on a par with what we went through when we lived in Hong Kong, and the authorities there are ultra-efficient - providing you are prepared.
That's a great thing you have going with your wife. Boundaries are important and it's good to know that you've never had problems with immigration here.
Joshua, firstly your wife went overseas and provided for her entire family. Why did your wife marry u and not a filipino ? cos you are hot ? U do support her entire family by providing employment. What your wife has done, is empowered her family with an income via you dude and sacrificed herself. The family is the number one prority. Secondly " . The longest we have ever spent at an immigration office is 2 hours " The point this guy was making is that u do not have to leave your home to get a visa in the west. In the Phils is a manual process. When I read your story, I see a guy being totally manipulated by a pinay. In your mind u think u got it a great.
@@craigk2644 I appreciate your input, my friend. All relationships are essentially contractual.I don't know many western guys whose wives marry them because they are 'hot'. They usually have to bring something else to the table. My wife is with me because I provide her with a life and a lifestyle she couldn't otherwise have had. Don't you think I don't know that? If I were poor i wouldn't be in the picture. However, ultimately we are happy, we have a satisfying life, we have money and we have no worries. My Western wife dumped me/drifted away because I didn't fit in with her lifestyle - I despised her banker friends who were effectively culturally illiterate, mercenary arseholes, racist and stupid who bored me shitless so I refused to associate with them. And, by the way, I am pretty hot, all things taken into consideration. I am fit, muscular, well-toned and without an ounce of fat on me. I boxed for 30 years, I still work out regularly and walk 10km a day. The local chicks flirt with me until the learn of my wife's existence and then they back away. I suggest, my friend, that before you make derogatory comments that you actually understand exactly what you are commenting on.
@@joshuarizalforeman816 I smiled with your reply. U r one of the few who understand. Is true I made a conclusion based on little info. I don't mind being put straight by a person who has their head screwed on correctly. Fortunately was only text otherwise you'll practicing those boxing skills upon my torso. Would u agree there are many foreigners who marry and yet are being manipulated. I am sure u have seen with your own eyes.
If you are not moving to the PH for the adventure and culture, don't go. If you are not going to visit or vacation before moving to the PH before you move, don't go. If you expect everything in the PH to be the same as your home country, don't go. If you have no patience and trigger easy, don't go. just saying....
That sums it up perfectly.
Correct if you go to Davao city you trigger easy don’t go.
Don't Go.
FIFY
@@rexmascarina2169whats wrong with Davaou City?
@@altonarm Low crime, too many hospital, people don't allow smoke cigarette very wrong.
I was sent to the Philippines for work and I was kind of worried about going. But I found it to be an amazing place and although I am now working in another country, I'm still planning to return there in the future :-)
Good for you Michael
Got treated like a person ? different from the west ? The girls appreciate your kindness and attention ?
I am a Filipino living in the Philippines, and the way you presented facts about the country is impeccable. People outside the country have to see the truth so they will have realistic expectations. Dont get me wrong, my country is beautiful and the people are wonderful, but it is not like the paradise that we have created in our fantasies. It has its downsides and one must prepare himself completely to adjust to it before deciding to set-foot in the country. Wonderful content!
I think he's just telling the truth, especially on part of marrying "the whole Filipina family". Not a lot of western guys support their own family. At young age, they already learned how to be independent and not to ask help from their parents, nor parents continues to support them especially on finances. Filipinas, it's good to set boundaries especially in terms of finances..
Kudos to those marriages that seems to be successful. God bless you guys.
@@elizabethprice5916 I am a Filipino but I dont agree with it either. I understand of course the need to support older parents, as unlike in the US our elderlies here do not have insurances that they can count on, neither the government is providing sufficient subsidies for them. So I consider it a privilege to take care of my parents in their old age and provide for them. BUT supporting the entire CLAN is an entirely different story. We must discourage all forms of dependency for it makes people less empowered to make certain choices that will greatly affect their lives.
The key to staying in the Philippines is to live there part time. I stay until I feel like any one of your points get to me. I try to keep Phil as fresh as possible so I look forward to returning. If I stay too long it becomes too much of a drag as I'm so used to efficiency.
Well said!
That is the key and my plan to do in future.
Meeting a girl there is making your life easy , but a genuine one, not internet dating, no move in asap, study from distance the person.
And yes if you live 2 or 3 years there mire than that is boring.
And the key is part time.
My sentiments exactly. That’s what I do now. And yes, keep the PH fresh by leaving the country every couple months or more then come back. 👍
I visited for 11 days and felt that way about efficiency.
Great advice on the expectations. I’ve fallen into the trap myself of comparing everything in the Philippines to how things are in the US. The less comparing you do, the better it gets. Just need to accept it for what it is.
I left The Philippines for two reasons:
1) the high cost of my medications and medical care in general.
2) education of my dependent grandson
You are right the inconsistencies are hard to deal with times.
Poverty is not easy to deal with. Dealing with the whole family is sometimes not easy.
Infrastructure can also be problems. You are right, the islands can have unrealistic expectations.
Visa problems and paying bills can be tough.
Exactly
This sounds like america too!
@@BrooklynsFinest34 The Philippines are on a whole different level of craziness
The Filipinas, the friendly locals, the good enough English, are the top 3 and not even the beaches would count as the main reasons why foreigners choose the country and yes, helping the family is Not At All the obligation of the foreigners married to Filipinas. Those that help do it out of their goodness, but the Filipinos shouldn't take advantage of this. Unfortunately, it happens and in this case some foreigners leave. And they can't be blamed. I feel for them. This Filipino thing sucks Big Time!!!!
Did you try becoming a medical tourist? South Korea and Singapore are hotbeds of low-cost, quality medical tourism.
I am planning to move to the Philippines. I've been there, and the whole point is it is very different than where I live in the US, and frankly I live in the city, and I am fed up with the unfriendly, selfish, society around me
Same here bro!
The grass is always greener elsewhere. Every place has it's pros and cons and if you don't realize that, you're sure to be disappointed.
The Philippines has the same, selfish, arrogant, inconsiderate, uneducated people.
But the family of your Fillipino wife sucking all your money is not selfish lol
New Clark City is one of the projects for the future in the PH. I think you should look that up. It'll probably gonna be a new BGC (or similar level of importance) in the near future. Knowing that the railway train station (funded by many multinational entities both inside and outside the country), connecting both NCR and New Clark City is going to be a new boom in the near future (latest update, is around 54% completion). It's new, mostly green, and seeing the focus those multinational entities have for this area, the potential of this place is definitely high. Looking into it now, you could give plans ahead (awareness) for those willing to invest and join this subtle, but a powerful movement from our country. Knowing economics, even if the country is willing to invest and the intial phases are complete but the people who were willing to join, risk and took up foundation on building a stronger economy to this place that'll connect to the main cities wouldn't be that many, then the project could wholly be deemed as a failure, if the initial growth wouldn't be up to standards.
Hey! Good info… I’ve been going to the Philippines for 20 years and love it. I hate the city and love the Provinces! I live in Puerto Galera and love the laid back lifestyle. I set financial boundaries with my wife and even though there’s been problems, nothing that can’t be overcome.
Interesting and informative as always. I love the Philippines, and have visited 2-3 times a year since 2014. I’ve never really considered living there full time until recently. The West is becoming such a mess now.
How do you think it's better in the Philippines?
@Hey Joe, Your Bag Is Tomorrow Senator Biden is the best
The thing about supporting a Pinay's whole family is so true. My mother is from Mindanao (southernmost region of the Philippines) and left in the mid 60s. Some of my Filipino relatives are upset at us because we don't do balikbayan (literally 'return to the country', but are gift boxes or money given back to family in the Philippines by relatives overseas). My relatives claim we have a duty to support the family, and since we are "rich" Americans, we should help. My mother's response is that her duty is to _her_ family, not theirs. I also have heard many horror stories of Filipino families taking advantage of their own relatives. So be warned folks.
SBMA Subic is almost like living back in the States. That is mostly because it is the former Naval Base three hours north of Manila. Decent condos and apartments, stores and malls, restaurants, wide roads with traffic laws strongly enforced, beautiful beaches, a major hospital, and many other amenities. Plus, you have all of Olongapo/Subic right outside the gates. Plenty of experienced expats around too, if you want that support. It's going to be expensive living there, though.
Good info. May I ask how much to rent a decent 2 bedroom condo with access to a pool?
@@namvet1968 You'll have to check on the 'net for that info.
You're right, been there, way, way too expensive and the quality still sucks, same as Manila.. big prices and poor service.
I was stationed at Clark AB in 1978 and have seen the Philippines when it was much poorer and less developed. When I was there we didn’t try to change anything but lived with what was presented and enjoyed the people and culture. I lived in Panama and the culture is very similar in family relationships and customs reflecting their Spanish histories.
All people not only expats or former pinoy citizens LEARN TO SAVE MONEY FROM PENSIONS, business etc. for future medical expenses and basic needs. But most prefer to go back and forth from their country of origin. That’s the best thing to do for me to AVOID SHORTAGE OF MONEY.
But you had the American base infrastructure. And you went outside and enjoyed the culture. And back to the base.
I have been here 13 years and find that the key to being is throwing away our western expectations. ADAPT, ADAPT, AND ADAPT SOME MORE! Money can solve a lot of these issues by creating a bubble around you that will insulate you against the things that you can't deal with. If you don't have at least 1500 USD you will experience difficulty creating your "safe-space". It's not to say you can't live on less but hey if you think you are going to live like a king you got to have the gold. As to medical care. . .I have found that not to be the case for most non-life-threatening issues, for my wife and me. Every man is responsible for researching the place before buying that ticket and these channels really help.
I used to tell people I can live like a king in the Philippines for a couple thousand dollars a month, then I realized kings don't usually have a multi cab limo in their motorcade, and their entourage is not usually two dozen hungry kids and several stray cats lol😀
Excellent wisdom.Frank..Thank you sir!!!
I have been going to the Philippines since 2009 every year up to 2019 when the pandemic started. I would be there now full time if it was for being vaccinated. Love the Philippines!
New problems with the jabs are showing up everyday.
@@LR-je7nn new problems with dying everyday
That's the tough part for many expats. Any other place you're considering in the meantime?
@@kennethboehnen271 In the last 12 months deaths from all causes have risen by 40 percent in the United States and 39 percent in the United Kingdom.
@@TheSavvyExpat I read a comment somewhere that the best place to survive in the next couple of years would be a sailboat.
Elon Musk might have given up his mansions, but not his submarine.
The Globalist need a world war to maintain the petrodollar. I concluded that when that eventually happens Uruguay in the northern countryside would be the safest place. Everyone is welcome with no restrictions and citizenship after five years.
I happen to enjoy grass fed, grass finished steaks too.
This world is not my home, I'm just a passing through. Peace!
Amen to that.
I have a condo in Manila, very close to all the good hospitals and I can get the pharmacy stuff I need but I'm not a hundred percent sure I can get it all the time that being said I'm going to spend about eight months of the year in New York and the rest in the Philippines splitting my time between the condo in Manila and a house out in Oriental Negros, I should be okay for medicine is l But it is a concern for many people especially those of us who needs specialist
Thank you for your candor, Evan. I need to hear the good and bad about living in the Philippines. This helps me know that I could only live in BGC/ Makati, or maybe even in Cebu City. So glad to have you reconfirm for me that those places are like modern western cities (infrastructure, amenities).
You better off actually going there and decide from there
Cebu City traffic becoming just as bad as Manila.
Last time i was there was 2020. And i saw all that you talked about. But i still fell in love with the Philippines. And want to move to it.
I suffer from depression and anxiety and I wanted to move to the Philippines exactly because of that, I think the warmth and the positivity of the people will help me with the depression and adapting to the Filipino time will help me with the anxiety. I am just unsure about the treatment I can get there. Can you give me your opinion, please?
I’m currently in the Philippines. Most of the people here are friendly but like anywhere you’ll get your rude ones. Also I’ve learned that not everyone is good in English most just know the basics so you won’t be able to have deep conversations with some even though you want to. I would say vacation here first before you decide making a big move.
@@Chr1s808 thank you for your insight. I don’t speak English so well myself, since it’s not my native language but I want to learn Tagalog. And yes, my plan is to visit there for one month this year, to feel the place, and return to my country so I can continue my work until I have enough money for the move. I won’t be moving too fast.
@@Guilhermealmeida. Yes just as Chris mentioned just visit and see how you like it. Not sure what treatment you're using but I think the pace of life and getting away for a bit will help your anxiety.
@Trevor Smith lol what do you mean?
@Trevor Smith LOL
I think the reason I will really like being in the Philippines it's because I'm going to be sharing my time with it in America that of course could always change but not staying somewhere too long is the best way to like it. Long lines are best dealt with by your wife..
That's a great way to go about it for most expats not looking to completely ditch their country. Good for you Tommy.
Evan, other than bgc… we got ayala alabang …quezon city …ortigas… newport… aseana / mall of asia area… those places are also like bgc. Not exactly the same but almost… maybe you would want to tour them around those places too. Or maybe bgc is your expertise.. :) anyhoo. Good point. I call this video a net. It simply catch the people with bigger hearts for the country and patience.. and let go of people who dont :) so we need not be sad for people who left. People who might have stayed have longer patience thus best for the country :)
Great way to put it Ruby. And absolutely, the places you mentioned are great - Alabang and Ortigas being one of my favorites. But as you mentioned, BGC is the city I'm most knowledgeable on so I speak on it the most as to not give false info on the places I don't know about.
Problem with those cities is you drive one kilometer or not even a kilometer you see high rise and then barong barong or dilapidated/ very old ugly houses/ buildings and very narrow streets and trash. In western countries, it is not the case, you have to intentionally drive to those poverty stricken places. You do not see dilapidated ugly, uncoordinated colored buildings, houses in your daily drive to work, shopping, going to church, going to school, going to park, etc. It is frustrating to see poverty stricken areas close to your home, sorry to say that . I am a Filipina and I love the Philippines, when I come home to the Philippines I always say there is no place like home, I love it but praying for the government to improve the life of our kababayans and the sceneries surrounding every Filipinos' home.
@@sandan778 i think u are mistaken… you need not get out of the bubble anyway… everything u need is within that 200 plus hectare of land in bgc. Ayala alabang is even bigger… its still ok sometimes to see poor places because it refreshes ur look in life and makes u appreciate where u live more. It actually does not bother me. I live in a 5 hectare condo.. complex… and the diversity in what u see refreshes u in a way. Because u wont appreciate it if u are used to seeing it. My place is very beautiful but after a while it really didnot matter. I lived in that poor stricken area u are talking about because i rented my unit to chinese and its the only available that time.. in a way to profit.. for extra buck while waiting for my flight to singapore…since i dont want to live with my parents..then the pandemic hit…its not barong barong but there are places near it that is like that… once u get to know the people surrounding u… it really does not matter. They are poor yes but they are very helpful and respectful. Some maybe difficult and drunks. But it never made me felt lonely unlike living in a condo or gated house… where people dont go out… its happier in those places esp in new years and xmas… u really just have to know the people before judging by the looks of it. I never felt lonely there with their speakers blasting.. and dogs and children. Our place was not barong barong but its near. Like this street is okay the next street is barong barongs. U dont need to drive to get what u need and the market usually is just a walk away compared to condo and gated houses.
@@rubycebreros2330 For you who is used to seeing it, you were desensitized, but for one who lived most of their lives in developed countries who had not seen kids with no clothes and living in houses almost like the house of their dogs in developed countries, it is frustrating and disabling. It makes you feel uncomfortable in your own place. Western people are not used to seeing poverty that bad. I am not talking about safety and the kind of people living there. I am talking about the poverty you see which to me is not pleasant to see at all.
@@sandan778 its alright. Im guessing the govt is on its tracks little by little relocating the people elsewhere.. its gradual because you cant uproot everyone all at the same time.. there had been huge development since my college days. The squatters in magallanes makati was the first one i saw relocated.. so far i noticed many riverside dwellers in zapote las pinas has been taken off.. and many lands has been reseized from informal settler.. by owners.. cbeing converted in condominiums and govt developments. Esp during this administration. There are millions still living in slums but once they converted it to condo u cannot return it to being squatters anymore.. its gradual but its getting there. Many many condos todays used to be squatters area.. it was such because many land owners did not care about their properties and check it up if there are people starting to occupy it. But i saw massive changes and it will continue to change if there is enough demand for the use of the debated lands… these lands are prime property if the right amount is agreed upon and relocation starts… you can never convert it back. It is a slow process but its getting there.. before. There was no demand for anything luxurious in the phils. We dont have functioning economy from after marcos era. Because of tooo much destabilization being done by forces like NPA. With the help of the govt now and support of the people… abolishing oligarchy will eliminate slumming since all the oligarchy wants is for low labor and high profit so they profit from slavery of the poor people of the phils.. imagine the salary here is really for survival only.. so we cant blame the people for being poor. What really needs to be done is to let people with money invest here.. so there will be demand for those land and the govt will have budget for relocations and making infrastructure. Now people are complaining about the debts pf the country bec it was used to create so many infrastructure watch all of it in the unbiased reports of finished projects. The govt is moving.. many things have been overturned like boracay and manila bay. All so that the investors will invest in us. The more investment the more land needed and more relocation for those poverty stricken people. Does it sound like a plan?? Or are we just gonna whine about it in soc media bad mouthing ignorant remarks on soc med. wht evans doing here is promoting the country to have more investment but you are contributing the opposite . We need good words for good investment for good economy.
😂 I found it funny when you talked about the infrastructure. Because I live in a western place but the infrastructure was better in the Philippines only the internet was worse.
Congratulations on 10K, Evan. Keep up the good work.
Thank you
Well at least ur straight forward but my hope is to still visit the Philippines one day so have a great day.🇨🇦👍
Don't let these reasons discourage your visit. Just some things to keep in mind.
This guy is honest & tells it like it is. Too bad he didn't mention all the dog barking in rural areas.
Bro, all of your assessments need to be incorporated into the welcome brochure for expats coming into the Philippines to live. I've been living here for five years and coming here on and off for the last thirty years. Everything you indicated is biblical truth.
This is also the reason why many Filipinos who have experienced life abroad would like to just stay abroad and not retire here.
Excellent video. Great points.
👍👍
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Salaam to you and to all from Arabia.
Reason number 2 is HUGE and exactly on point. Family is everything to Filipinas and as bad as it sounds, the female's "job" is to support the whole entire family. Being from the U.S. it isn't like that at all. Once you leave home then the rest of the family is pretty much on their own to make it. As you said, a visit for a few days every now and then is acceptable but don't expect us to support the whole family forever. Fortunately for me, my Filipina wife of 36 years told her family outright we weren't going to support them. Thank goodness for that. Totally different expectations on both sides that can lead to arguments for sure if you're expecting to just "get the girl" and never mind about her family.
A Great Honest Podcast.Am a Filipino born but living in Australia now for 45 years.I only like to visit.
Another great video. I find that your videos are very realistic about the situation.
Glad to hear that Jerry
After 3 years of dating , I broke up with my Filipina gf for that reason. I couldn’t possibly take care of her entire family. The most annoying thing is some of her cousins would stop by our house unannounced to ask me for money.
Yeah for sure I would dump them much faster than that if they didn't enforce boundaries with the family.
The unannounced visit just mind boggling.
Excellent reporting, both sides are covered !
1. Marrying a woman here in the Philippines also marrying the whole family.
It's very true. Even the locals here can't escape that rule. If you marry a woman with
12 brothers and a sister, no mater how far you bring your wife out of their original home.
the family will still catch you and somehow live with you one relative at a time and
sometimes 2 or three for a year of vacation.
2. INFRASTRUCTURE.
It's still a big problem. When a tourist came for a visit to one of the beautiful beaches,
they can not go directly to that place,because there's no airport available there. They still
have to land first at the main airport and experience the long lines, toilets without papers,
and you will meet people at the immigration counter , to greet you a "merry christmas" in
September
Excellent channel! Type A guys and also if you tend to be a loner (Not an extremely social person)...then probably not going to work out. Fun and a great place to revive appreciation for your home country.
Well said
I have been living the province for 15 years now and it is a great place. But a few things I have found painful is the Medical System (frightening experience), brown outs (power out for many hours), being seen as someone who can be charged 'extra' for almost any service. My biggest headache is the simple things that never seems to get done properly, fix the car or get some painting done I always find the quality of work is very poor.
Very true about visa headaches and corruption is hard to take when it is right in front of you!
An excellent summary of the typical difficulties encountered in most developing nations, not just Philippines.
Howdy my young intelligent brother blessings and, and the reason why im coming to the Philippines is the, one, what you said about marrying her entire family, I don't mind because i don't have my family at all(buried everyone sad)and my fiance family i FaceTime every day, secondly, ive been in nyc my entire life, tired of snow, rain cold, and B.S.
So i absolutely am ready for a change..also..blessings always my young brother, hopefully our paths will cross, so i can thank you in person blessings and grace always my young brother 🙏
Thanks for sharing brother
Thanks for the heads up on the long lines at Immigration, atms, and grocery stores.
Looks like I will need a girlfriend/wifey, or an actual maid to do the waiting for me.
Yup, that's the best route to take
The fact is he’s being really nice but ultimately right. It’s when they stack up on each other and creates and compounding effect. It all adds up and becomes too much. There’s a lot of reasons.
I wasn't allowed into the main Bureau of Immigration building because I was wearing shorts. Just a couple of blocks away I found a used clothing store. I returned to the BI wearing a pair of blue jeans with Disney cartoon characters on the pockets. They let me in. Only in the Philippines.
Shorts are for the beach and playground, not for a visit to a goverment office or proffessional office visit.
@@FRANCISPOLLARD-r3pThat's the Filipino-cultural perspective. No one is debating that that's the perspective. It sounds like the OP is simply disagreeing that this should be the case.
I explained to my wife early on that the more of our money she gives away the less we have for us. She still helps which is ok with me but is cautious about it.
Hi Evan. My mom and I are dual citizens. My parents and I have considered moving to the Philippines. My father would like to know if there is any chance that they will bring back the retirement visa?
Do you mean that SRRV visa? That should be available.
I am not a lawyer, but if I remember correctly if your father is married to a Filipino citizen he would not need a retirement Visa
This is great vedio about foreigners leaving in the Philippines we moved to the Philippines soon
I had to leave when a predator was hunting me. To escape I had jumped out the window of trion towers in bgc. Luckily I had landed on a mango tree. I grabbed a few mangoes to take with me on a ride with grab to the airport. Maybe some day I’ll go back but I can’t afford gas anymore…
Why I left the Philippines:
- Unreliable internet (video calls are important for me).
- So many beggars, and persistent ones that approach you.
- Overall less feeling of safety (compared to Thailand).
- Long lines everywhere.
However, that was just based on 1 stretch in Cebu City. I want to come back and try BGC next time.
BGC is by far the best place for quality living in the Philippines. That's my personal opinion
People cutting the lines.
Supporting the family is so true because foreigners are usually seen as ATMs
The Philippines could gain in GDP if they would improve roads, internet speed and reliability of power.
Big time
Part of the problem is the corrupt govt
Another great video. Thanks.
Thanks for the info. Several serious points to take into consideration.
Glad I could help
Love your videos. Just subbed.
Keep up the great vlogs😊 Is it possible to hire a local to wait for you in line and pay them when they get to the front? I have a Filipino friend who waited in line 25 hours for the Dept of Foreign Affairs to get clearance to work overseas. I felt so bad for her as she was texting me of hunger, thirst and fatigue.
Yeah you can hire maid that can do that for you plus help around the house
These are all true. Thank you for giving us a true, accurate and informative info.
Sure thing!
I don’t think I could adapt driving there and that would suck to rely on public or private transportation all the time.
You should hire a driver. Makes things much easier.
If the public transportation is anything like NYC, then it wouldn't suck. Maybe try it out over assumption. You just might realize it's cheaper & a much better way to travel.
When I drove for Uber here in NYC, I used to tell everyone, if it makes more sense to ride a donkey or mule around & up the the mountain side, then take the best means of transport bc it makes sense. Just a thought off of your thought.
@Gerry badders Yes, it’s cheap and all but I’m just saying I’m going to miss just being able to go in my own vehicle and drive to wherever I want and whenever I want. Also I don’t want to rely on public transportation if I was to go on a date or bring my family grocery shopping, it’s just not convenient to have to carry a lot of groceries on a train, bus, or taxi/grab vs having your own vehicle.
Hire a driver. It's very cheap. And he will know all the best routes and best places. He can help you negotiate and save you money as well as save you from getting ripped off. Just be sure to treat him well.
@Con Descending you can speak to friends, neighbors, relatives. Or you can use one of the employment agencies, but that will cost you a little more. When you find someone you like, you can offer them something more permanent. It's up to you. But really, drivers are everywhere. Some of them are much better than others. That's why it's good to ask around.
Great vid again Evan! All great points.
Great video, as always
Salamat Kuya
I have heard that some Filipino's take "skin whitening" treatments or pills? There's no way that is not harming their bodies.
This is true. Very common here. I thought the same thing. It's gotta have a negative effect one way or another.
This is sad. White people usually want to tan to get darker & some people of color want to become white. Weird world we live in.
@@TheSavvyExpat They need a psychologist to find out why they feel the need to change their body. The first person I thought of was Michael Jackson and how he struggled with that problem.
@@TheSavvyExpat In a quick Google I found many studies showing the negative effects.
@@BrooklynsFinest34 My Radiation Oncologist at Barnes hospital said What is wrong with your skin. It's so dark. Having a construction company I use to spend a lot of time out in the sun.
Now at 74 I can no longer produce vitamin D3 from the sun so I take 10,000 IU of D3 everyday I eat.
I've been living here, in Metro Cebu, but in the province, barely, for 15 years. I've never returned to the USA, I'm about to be 67, my daughter visited in 2019, she met her stepmom and the little sister that she's always wanted. I'm proud to say that not one of these applies to me. But I also did my research before moving here, 2 years of it. I'm retired military and I moved here with the intent to quit working, only that, mission accomplished. I wouldn't move 100 miles for a female, much less to the other side of the planet. I had no interest at all in becoming involved with a woman from a poor family here. And it just so happens that I was introduced to a woman from a lower-middle-class family before I even moved here. I met her when I was here doing a recon a year prior to moving, just to ensure that I could indeed live here, I had never been to the Philippines before. I married her when I moved here and her family doesn't expect anything from me, other than what they would expect from another son-in-law. We've helped family members when it was needed, and that's been extremely rare. Internet was rough when I moved here. But it worked and it's definitely not a problem now. Power outages have been rare here for at least a decade. And I've not had any issues with healthcare. Visa extensions, 13a, Annual Reports, I've never spent more than 2 hours at the BI here. I did my Annual Report last month and it took about 45 minutes. I have no place to be, all day to get there, so that's not a problem. I love the Philippines and its people. I've traveled quite a bit here, but I've never even been to Metro Manila other than passing through on a bus to visit Baguio City in 2006. I flew back, so the Port of Manila and the domestic side of the airport. I do however want to visit BGC, more specifically the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. I plan to die in the Philippines, hopefully, later than sooner. I have a 14-year-old daughter, never thought that I would say that again, that I need to get through college before I go.
@Con Descending When I am in Mindanao I get home sick, missing the quaint charm of the nightly gun shots in south east Denver. It's all good in tha mile high 'hood.
I strongly encourage you to make it to the American Cemetery. We spent several hours there our last trip thru Manila. It is very moving for everyone, but for those of us who are former/retired military it has a special resonance in our hearts. Especially when we have older family who served thru-out Asia in WWII.
1 reason for me personally
Weather weather weather
2 a slower pace
3 to experience a different life style
Food culture
4 to escape the trap of the communist
Political theories in the west
Like your comments..true...but again it depends on who you got involved with. The good, the bad and the ugly....and i was lucky to be with the 'good' for the six years. The magic word is patience or as they say "pasensia"....
Visa process for foreigners is a nightmare. Investment policies are horrible. Nice video with facts. 👌
Can you please share where you found out about Makati Medical Center and St. Luke's Medical Center (BGC) being the two best hospitals in the Philippines?
I've seen lists of the top hospitals in the world and while those two ranked high in PH, Philippine Heart Center or Philippine General Hospital ranked higher than that.
Hi! Philippine Heart Center and Philippine General Hospital are Government (Public) Hospitals that cater to the general public. They also do have good facilities and good healthcare workers, but the wait time is long. Makati Medical Center and St. Luke's Medical Center are private hospitals, which means you'll get accommodated immediately, provided you have the finances for it. That's mainly why I think he put those two hospitals on this list for Expats :)
@@SirEJRT12I see. thank you for the clarification ^^
You should see the facilities of St Luke's. They can rival the medical facilities of the best hospitals in Western countries (they have PET Scans, Robotic surgery, etc). Medical City Manila is also a good hospital
That's why as a Filipino, I have never thought of getting married anymore since I witnessed the foolish family culture here that really sucks, like families expect the in-law to help them financially, that's an ultimate robbery! Maybe only my blood is Filipino but my mind is never, because I can't take many foolish values here especially that foolish family culture. I have learned the value of individualism, so I am not really into groupism.
Took me 30 minutes to extend the visa a few days ago. There were just 3 people in the queue when I arrived.
That's good. We've experienced the opposite. Really depends.
@@TheSavvyExpat I went to the office in SM Aura, maybe it was the time it had just opened
Phillipines needs to stop making excuses. Singapore was the equivalent living standard in the 1960’s and early ‘70’s. They got off their butts.
That is true. Although the Philippines is progressing, it's still pretty slow at the same time. Vietnam recovered from the way faster than ph in peace.
@@vaeldsable Glorious, revolutionary, atheist socialist peoples' paradise, China. I will never go there again.
@@TheSavvyExpat because of YELLOW administration it became slower
education and corruption
Great channel bro! Top notch information. 👍👊🏾
Any advice on a good company to buy a condo from in BGC or Makati?
So true, but I'm not an expat....like you I am Fil-Am. Born there but grew up in the states, and I am planning to retire there in 3 years with my wife who is also Filipina. I like that you are straight up about stuff, live in the Philippines for the right reasons and be sure of who you partner with and be willing to adapt to surroundings. Most vlogs here on YT show the beauty of Philippine nature and they are mostly foreigners who grew up or go to school there, tourists or travel vloggers. Foreigners that vlog about the Philippines are treated well by Filipinos and getting subscribers is a lot easier. Been back and forth the US and the Phil. a lot so there are no surprises for me. We plan to live in Cebu city where Cebu Doctors and the 2 Chong Hua are top notch..certainly St. Lukes in Manila is up to American standards too. I am working in the healthcare field here and mostly ICU care so I can tell if care is subpar. Your vlogs are informative man..so keep it up. Being young is such a big advantage for a RUclipsr. Going back to the Phil. early next year to plan and maybe reserve a pre-selling condo near a big mall and a major hospital. It would be also great to hang with my family too. I have more there than in the states. We plan to come home to the states maybe once or twice a year since our daughter takes care of our home here, besides still gotta file for taxes in the US. Hopefully being a dual citizen won't take so long. So, I can't wait. Keep up the good work big guy!
Lol I so don't need to worry about number 1. I don't drive (New Yorker here) but I do need reliable internet and electricity. I can deal with inconsistency especially when I'm not in a rush. I've stayed in Hong Kong on and off since the 90s so I've seen stuff like you were described. I also don't have meds either, so that's not a concern. I like the lack of hurry. I'd also get a maid ;-D. But yeah it may not be for everyone.
Sounds like you'll be able to get used to life easily here then :)
@@TheSavvyExpat I’m looking into it seriously. Thanks!
Yes #7 and #8,,Ugh just brutally SLOW and inefficient. It drove me out of the country.
Your exactly right about all 10 reasons
💯
Great, very informative video. Thank you for sharing
Is there a music industry in BGC and makati?
The only thing I would say is after living in PI was I didnt like the healthcare. I would go to Thailand to see a doctor. If you dont live in metro-manila you can run into infrastructure problems.
Well number two through 10 I can understand I’ve personally been here for years I was able to get through all that stuff what’s your number one reason that you came up with I don’t understand why on gods earth any guy would leave if the relationship didn’t work out I mean my god there’s a heart perfect 10 babe on every block of this country if things don’t work out with one like within five minutes you have yourself another perfect tan waiting right around the block for you I mean it’s really that easy so that would be crazy if your girlfriend didn’t work out of your wife didn’t work out you snap your fingers and you’ve got another girl but hey maybe that’s just me
Glass half full perspective. I like that. Lot of truth to that.
Thank you for discussing this very important topic. I previously heard/read that for Americans that spend less than 51% of their time in the Philippines, though, health care insurance companies may not allow these Americans to purchase health insurance at the lower international rates. Additional clarity on this issue would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
I will be coming to Cebu in July to get married and intend to live there. You are always so informative !!!
Be prepared to feed and financially support 100 people or more!!! Lmfao!!!
You referenced No male cahiers in the philippines.
Tanjay city has several male cashier's at Prince Hypermart.
Really? I've never seen a male cashier here.
Better to ask Concierge or Information Desk when you are inside the mall rather than asking a security guards cos some of them don't have an ideas :)
Do they accept Blue Cross Blue Shield at Saint Luke's Hospital?
You are absolutely CORRECT!!! Maybe your next video shows the real DARK SIDE of the Philippines.
Dude, there are places other than BGC and Makati that are considered up to par with Westerners. I’ll let you find out which ones yourself for the challenge. 🤙🏾
Eastwood, Alabang, Mandaluyong, QC, It Park. I know there's a lot but I must say, I love these two cities.
@@TheSavvyExpat noted pare. Eastwood idk. Ayala Land is the way to go. No I don’t work for them. I’m their biggest fan.
Do you know if cigar lounges are in Makati or BGC?
It is a great country but for many reasons it is lagging behind other countries in the region. From basics like reliable internet to complex matters like scenario planning the distribution of aid after calamtites or just simple stuff like DSWD distribution.
I married a Filipino (a gay marriage) and he scammed me big time. I also allowed him to scam me because I thought I was doing the honorable thing. We separated three years ago and he just recently asked me for a divorce. He found another sugar daddy, younger and wealthier than I - an Australian bloke. He plans on moving there in August of this year (2022). I plan on returning to the Philippines next year to see if this emotionally painful baggage has healed enough to make me want to find a new partner. This time I'll look for someone not into Gucci, Christian Dior or Versace.
A closing note: I refused to grant him a divorce because the act of him asking me has triggered all the anger and resentment that has built up these past years. Of course I'm sure he can find a legal way to get it but I'm not going to spend one more ounce of energy (or dollars) helping him "move on" with his life. I understand all of this is TMI, LOL.
your biggest mistake was marrying a filipino. For them, Westerners are giant dollar signs with legs. And Filipinos, being a very non confrontational culture, think westerners are too stupid to notice and won't say anything. They bank on western ignorance to get ahead in life.
So true, everything is Facebook in the Philippines.
Damn that no.2 hit hardddd, infrastructure, lines, visa extensions, and pen and paper.... agree. From a returnee from Europe
I stay out of relationships here it's nothing but a gigantic headache for me yeah the infrastructure in most places here really aren't the best and I hate brownouts they can last almost a whole day at times more common in the province areas and too much rain here
married to a filipina from iloilo for 35 years i was introduced to the philippnes by the us military too many peeople try to make the PI like the states lol big mistake.
It's amazing how Filipino spouses are not expected to sustain their family in law. While foreign are expected so.
The visa issues would likely be why I wouldn't be able to retire there. Unless I could get a long term visa, I don't think living there would be an option for me.
They are pretty nice ppl overall, my buddy married a pina and i luv her shes awesome. She rides a harley Davidson shes badass a solid woman, works a great job.
The bureaucracy part is the killer point.
What medical insurance do you recommend in the Philippines
Your right. Absolutely right .🇵🇭🙏🇵🇭🙏
Just got here a month ago I love it 🥰 thing is even if you dont like it here you save a lot of money to travel around different countries the possibilities are endless
On point!!!..content is sooo honest!