Glen Adkins
American expat in the Philippines
Forum posts
48
Contacts
1
About me
American
Lives in Angeles City, Central Luzon
Speaks English
Registration: 19 February 2018
VP Kamala Harris visits the Philippines
@Bhavna There is nothing neutral about the alleged V.P. Kamala Harris. She is an embarrassment to the United States. Read More
Your best culinary memory in the Philippines by Mickael
Hello everyone, As you know, every country has its own flavours and tasting the local cuisine is a great way to discover the culture of a destination. Whether it's a small typical restaurant to taste local dishes, a traditional meal in a local's ...
I have been in the Philippines for 8 years. My best culinary memory was of having Austrian food prepared at a German restaurant that is no longer in business. Read More
Philippine Economic Growth? by PalawOne
Just had a thought .. other near-by Asian countries are steadily developing their economies .. and certainly their middle classes are increasingly seeing the benefits of a reasonably strong economic growth rate.However, in the Philippines, as usual, ...
@manwonder Why should a foreigner invest if most of his profit is eaten up by local, regional and above bureaucrats have to be included in expneses? Read More
13a visa vs. SRRV visa which is better? by jeffdavfla
I am married to a Phillipina in the USA before coming to the Philippines, I applied and recieved a 13a Permanent visa. I have live here in the Philippines (Davao City) 6 months now and found out about the SRRV visa and not sure if it is worth ...
I have friends with the SRRV that left the Philippines, during Covid, and could not get back in with their SRRV ID. I know I could get back in with my 13A. This is something you need to verify before deciding. There will be another virus crisis ... Read More
Buying condos as investments? by Zodel
Not sure if anyone is successful in doing this here. In the United States real estate investor’s is very competitive. All though I haven’t had to evict anyone in a while I was wondering what the process is in makati? Also I was ...
Don't forget to factor in the 10% tax when reselling your house or condo. Read More
Best type of fish to make UK style fish- n-chips. by FindlayMacD
I know how to make the beer batter etc but can anyone suggest the best fillet fish available here in the Philippines to make UK style fish -n- chips. I know you can buy Atlantic cod fillets here in S&R but besides being very expensive, ...
@gsturdee I agree and I have given up eating fish n' chips in the Philippines. Read More
Health care (Medicare) by Guest34824756
Have you heard of Juventas medical group? They help me with my medical bill while i am here in Philippines, as long as you have your medicare. If you need help too, you can contact them un this what’sapp number 09158532933.
@Enzyte Bob Be sure to check with your airline. I suspect they are greedier now more than ever. In 2018 I returned to the Philippines, on PAL. I was charged $50.00 for being 10 pounds overweight. Read More
Counterfeit Items On Lazada and Shopee by Moon Dog
In the 10 months I've been in the Philippines I've received 392 orders from Lazada and 45 orders from Shopee. I did buy a couple counterfeit items, namely Makita power tools. I was naive thinking that name brand saws are just cheaper here. I was ...
@Moon Dog I have given up on Lazada and just assume what I order is counterfeit. Therefore only order cheap throwaway items from Lazada. I would never make a serious purchase there. You are right. Lazada does not ... Read More
Move money from US bank to the Phils... by tpiro
Hey y'all... Planning on my retirement in the Philippines 2022 and if by chance I get the opportunity to purchase a place say for $65k US.. how would one get that $$ over from my US bank to the Phils? Because it will be a while before I can ...
That's condos, not bonds. Read More
Move money from US bank to the Phils... by tpiro
Hey y'all... Planning on my retirement in the Philippines 2022 and if by chance I get the opportunity to purchase a place say for $65k US.. how would one get that $$ over from my US bank to the Phils? Because it will be a while before I can ...
Asian bonds are very, very small, unless you have unlimited funds. You have very limited space, lack of closets and condo fees. They sell them as investments. They are not. They are expenses. When you see a house or condo, in the Philippines, ... Read More
Move money from US bank to the Phils... by tpiro
Hey y'all... Planning on my retirement in the Philippines 2022 and if by chance I get the opportunity to purchase a place say for $65k US.. how would one get that $$ over from my US bank to the Phils? Because it will be a while before I can ...
Nothing, in the Philippine government moves quickly. I applied for an ACR card at the immigration office. I don't remember how long it took to get it. Maybe a month. I opened my bank account with 2 IDs in one day. Read More
Move money from US bank to the Phils... by tpiro
Hey y'all... Planning on my retirement in the Philippines 2022 and if by chance I get the opportunity to purchase a place say for $65k US.. how would one get that $$ over from my US bank to the Phils? Because it will be a while before I can ...
An ACR card does not take a year. Apply, for it, at immigration. Apply for the ACR card. Find your house. Give them a token deposit. Get your ACR card. Open a Philippine bank account. Transfer your house funds to your new bank account or the ... Read More
Davao to stop accepting Sinovac and Sinopharm
The moderator is doing what Facebook and other social networks are doing. Censoring to fit their own, convoluted, self-serving, politically motivated narrative. Ignoring basic truths, about all the Covid vaccines, hurts everybody and kills some ... Read More
How to get a credit card for a foreignor in the Philippines by onefogarty
Hello there! I have an excellent credit score in my own country, Canada. However, here in the Philippines, I have yet to establish some kind of credit history as it were with my bank (BDO). That said, I would assume that having some kind of ...
Exactly! Read More
How to get a credit card for a foreignor in the Philippines by onefogarty
Hello there! I have an excellent credit score in my own country, Canada. However, here in the Philippines, I have yet to establish some kind of credit history as it were with my bank (BDO). That said, I would assume that having some kind of ...
Forget getting a credit card in the Philippines. Remember, it is still a third world country and no one needs 30% to 40% interest rates. Use a bank debit card instead. Read More
Mix & Match Vaccines? by Enzyte Bob
My first vac was Sinovac. I understand the other vacs have been available by luck for some people. My son tells me I have to get the Sinovac as my second vac. I would like to have some other vac, has anyone been successful in getting a different ...
The Covid drugs are not really vaccines. My doctor has advised me to take NO vaccine or drug with a spike protein in it. It is better to wait for the real vaccines to come out...and they will come. Read More
Waiting to get OUT of Q Hotel on Day 10 by PhilRes
So the end of the process is Cert on negative test goes to hotel - they submitted to the COAST GUARD who then submit to the Quarantine Bureau - who are supposed to send you a final get out of jail certificate before you can go home to finish your ...
Best to not travel and not to spend extra money in the Philippines. Read More
13a visa vs. SRRV visa which is better? by jeffdavfla
I am married to a Phillipina in the USA before coming to the Philippines, I applied and recieved a 13a Permanent visa. I have live here in the Philippines (Davao City) 6 months now and found out about the SRRV visa and not sure if it is worth ...
Please remember that PhilHealth only covers about 10% of a foreigner's hospital bill. It helps, but do not rely upon it to cover expensive, emergency, medical expenses. Read More
School Holiday Activities in the Philippines by Diksha
Hi everyone, Finding suitable activities for your children during the school holidays in the Philippines can be tricky. We'd love to hear your tips and feedback on how to keep your kids busy during the holidays in the Philippines, depending on ...
Andrew is right. The politicians are determined to destroy the lives, of our children, based on false science. The best thing for older fathers is to dye your hair to look younger and take your children to a local park after hours. The ... Read More
How to get a credit card for a foreignor in the Philippines by onefogarty
Hello there! I have an excellent credit score in my own country, Canada. However, here in the Philippines, I have yet to establish some kind of credit history as it were with my bank (BDO). That said, I would assume that having some kind of ...
I tried BPI. If I deposit P10,000 and leave it in the bank, only then will BPI give me a credit card. I would rather have the use, of my money, and no credit card. The credit card becomes useless. Read More
How to get a credit card for a foreignor in the Philippines by onefogarty
Hello there! I have an excellent credit score in my own country, Canada. However, here in the Philippines, I have yet to establish some kind of credit history as it were with my bank (BDO). That said, I would assume that having some kind of ...
I applied, for a credit card, at BDO where I have 3 bank accounts. I was turned down, because I am over 70. They do not care about my excellent credit in the U.S. Read More
What struck you about the Philippines? by Cheryl
Hello everybody, When you first settled in the Philippines, you might have been struck by cultural aspects of life in the Philippines and you might even have anecdotes about your integration here. We would like you to share with expats-to-be ...
I have noticed the same thing and find it worrisome. Collecting plastic bottles, in the street, is not a smart job choice. Opportunities, for the young, are very limited. Read More
Treasury check clearing timeframe. by Sumomaster2004
Has anyone deposited their stimulus check in a local bank here? How long was the clearing period?
2 years ago I opened a bank account with a treasury check, at BPI. It took them 30 days to confirm the check was real and another 30 days, after that, to clear the check. Read More
Are land, house and rents prices falling ? by Lat61
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, do any of you see prices falling due to lack of income and a falling off of remittance payments.
Henry Ford didn't live in the Philippines. Read More
Are land, house and rents prices falling ? by Lat61
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, do any of you see prices falling due to lack of income and a falling off of remittance payments.
I have observed that common sense seldom prevails with PI real estate. Read More
Are land, house and rents prices falling ? by Lat61
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, do any of you see prices falling due to lack of income and a falling off of remittance payments.
Our landlord has had two units vacant for at least a year for the same high price that we are paying. Her 3rd larger apartment is now vacant and she is asking the same price you would be for a house, in this area. Read More
Are land, house and rents prices falling ? by Lat61
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, do any of you see prices falling due to lack of income and a falling off of remittance payments.
After being here a year and dealing with a very nice lady that represents the owner, who is in Manila, I get the feeling the building is paid for in full and she doesn't care if she rents it or not. Either way, the agent wanted another year, ... Read More
Are land, house and rents prices falling ? by Lat61
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, do any of you see prices falling due to lack of income and a falling off of remittance payments.
My overpriced, 2 BR, up Philippine apartment, with no kitchen lease just came up for renewal in Angeles City. The landlord still wants the inflated rent for a 1 year lease and 12, postdated checks for the year. 4 of her 7 units are vacant and she ... Read More
Transferring $ from U.S. to Phil Peso acct by voyager39
A YT video stated that one good and cheap way to transfer money from the U.S. to the Phils is to maintain a U.S. dollar acct in the U.S. (he recommended Wells Fargo on yhe U.S. side); open a Peso savings acct with a Philippine bank; and to set up a ...
Please let us know your experience with TransferWise. I am told that Remitly offers the best service. The money does take 5 days to clear the account transferred into. Read More
Negotiating salary and benefits in the Philippines by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Better job prospects in the Philippines can most certainly be an incentive to leave your country of origin. Securing a contract with the right salary and benefits for you can be crucial to make your move successful. Is salary ...
The expats I know have given up on finding work in the Philippines. Working for 10 cents on the dollar just isn't worth it. Those I know that have started their own businesses; closed their own businesses. Extra. "required" payments to ... Read More
Transferring $ from U.S. to Phil Peso acct by voyager39
A YT video stated that one good and cheap way to transfer money from the U.S. to the Phils is to maintain a U.S. dollar acct in the U.S. (he recommended Wells Fargo on yhe U.S. side); open a Peso savings acct with a Philippine bank; and to set up a ...
I had no other choice but to open a BPI account for future electronic transfers. The first check arrived. BPI held the U.S. Government check for 30 days just to make sure the check was good. Then, they held if for another 30 days waiting The the ... Read More
Just for fun: Food culture in the Philippines by Diksha
Hello everyone, We all know Filipino food tastes great. Do you consider yourself a foodie? Share with us your unique food experience as an expat. 1. Name 3 best well-known Filipino street foods according to you. 2. Which are some unusual ...
You can use chicken or pork. Chicken is the most popular. I like chicken thighs the best. The key is not to cook it to death, so the meat comes out like leather. Simmer slowly. Read More
Transferring $ from U.S. to Phil Peso acct by voyager39
A YT video stated that one good and cheap way to transfer money from the U.S. to the Phils is to maintain a U.S. dollar acct in the U.S. (he recommended Wells Fargo on yhe U.S. side); open a Peso savings acct with a Philippine bank; and to set up a ...
I have had very good experience with Rimitly. Read More
Transferring $ from U.S. to Phil Peso acct by voyager39
A YT video stated that one good and cheap way to transfer money from the U.S. to the Phils is to maintain a U.S. dollar acct in the U.S. (he recommended Wells Fargo on yhe U.S. side); open a Peso savings acct with a Philippine bank; and to set up a ...
BDO has much better service than PNB. I was forced to open an account at PNB and I have regretted it ever since. Beware of long waits and the unnecessary holding of funds. Read More
Just for fun: Food culture in the Philippines by Diksha
Hello everyone, We all know Filipino food tastes great. Do you consider yourself a foodie? Share with us your unique food experience as an expat. 1. Name 3 best well-known Filipino street foods according to you. 2. Which are some unusual ...
I agree wholeheartedly. My doctor has even warned me of the hazards of eating such food and most other ill prepared Filipino dishes. Read More
Just for fun: Food culture in the Philippines by Diksha
Hello everyone, We all know Filipino food tastes great. Do you consider yourself a foodie? Share with us your unique food experience as an expat. 1. Name 3 best well-known Filipino street foods according to you. 2. Which are some unusual ...
There is no great Pinoy sweet food. Read More
So many new marriages and so many divoces ?? Why by moreto62
How many % of the marriages with filipina fall apart in your opinion ? Seems like so many man are getting married to filipina girlfriend and i see many man who divorced all ready and post videos on you-tube with warnings. Is it all about money or ...
I agree with Fred. My lady has a good heart. We have been together 4 years, which is longer than any relationship I have had in the United States. We are married, have a beautiful daughter and if I am half the man my wife and daughter think I am, ... Read More
Social Security deposits to banks in the Philippines by belayit
I will ne getting my social security checks deposited to a bank in the Philippines. How do I get my money converted to pesos??? Will the bank accept u.s. dollars???? Will the bank convert it for me???? Or will I have to somehow physically do ...
BPI will charge you an approximate 1.5% fee for electronic, SS, deposits. Read More
Social Security deposits to banks in the Philippines by belayit
I will ne getting my social security checks deposited to a bank in the Philippines. How do I get my money converted to pesos??? Will the bank accept u.s. dollars???? Will the bank convert it for me???? Or will I have to somehow physically do ...
Be very wary of hidden charges at BPI. Read More
Social Security deposits to banks in the Philippines by belayit
I will ne getting my social security checks deposited to a bank in the Philippines. How do I get my money converted to pesos??? Will the bank accept u.s. dollars???? Will the bank convert it for me???? Or will I have to somehow physically do ...
Unfortunately I opened a direct deposit account at BPI. I do not recommend them. Their "Online Express" is 20 years behind the rest of the world, in providing information. they post transactions for the last 60 days only. In our ... Read More
Cashing or depositing US Treasury refund check by Enzyte Bob
I have a small income tax refund check made out to my wife & I from the U.S. Treasury. She has a Peso account & my stepson has a Dollar account at BDO. My wife is a Filipina and I'm an American (married 10 years). We moved from the Las ...
My experience is that you will have to open a new, dollar account, deposit the check and wait. BDO is a good bank and all you should need is your passport and your wife's ID. Whatever you do, do not us BPI. They held our treasury check for ... Read More
Cost of a Chiropractor and Dentist in Philippines? by fixfireleo
Not sure where I want to move to yet. Was strongly looking at Bohol however I thought that they may not even have a chiropractor there and I need to go at least once per month for an adjustment. Maybe Cebu, maybe Baguio, who knows. Anyone know an ...
Qualified chiropractors are very rare, in the Philippines. Be very careful who you select, so that your spine is not unnecessarily damaged. I highly reccommend Dr. John Keller at United Nations Chiropractic, in Angeles City. I have been using his ... Read More
10 years down the line. by Peter Clark
We retire to the Philippines for the warm weather, economical living and to be with our Filipino partner. Following the new home build and purchase of new car we start to look round for something to do. Luckily for some of us that’s not a ...
I agree with Peter. I am a happily married American. The question is where to move to. Read More