BassMan_720
English expat in the Philippines
Forum posts
107
Contacts
5
About me
English, In a relationship
Lives in Province of Bohol, Central Vis
Registration: 17 May 2018
Reverse money transfer (PH to USA) by BillyJack CDO
Hello,My wife and I moved to Philippines (CDO) in 2020. I'm an American citizen, she is dual US/PH citizen. We receive our Social Security every month via direct deposit into BPI peso passbook accounts. We also have joint BPI peso and USD savings ...
The Philippine Peso is a restricted currency. This is why the normal exchange facilities only work one way. Easy to get money in but not so easy to get money out. My peso bank accounts do not have a facility for international transfer. One option ... Read More
The mother doesn't want to pay. by Guest8982
The Filipina mother (my ex) of my children doesn't work and doesn't want to pay for them. She lives with her boyfriend and stay at home. I pay for everything. I asked her to share the expenses. She replied my duty is to give money and her duty is to ...
They are your kids. You helped make them so you have a responsibility for their welfare.Your Ex also helped make them so she has a responsibility for their welfare.Your Ex is now with another man. Her new man is responsible for her welfare.It's not ... Read More
Absurdity of Looking for Work in the Philippines by drjs
I acquired my spousal visa in the Philippines a couple of months ago and started looking for work. Since I'm not Filipino, I knew it would be difficult.First you have to deal with the fact that several companies flat out refuse to hire anybody who ...
@drjsThere is patent discrimination here in the Philippines not only in the job market a trivial example is Leylam's discount policy for senior citizens, which applies only to Philippine citizens. The policy is posted on each of their outlets. ... Read More
Car purchases in Philippines by onefogarty
Hey!Anyone know how easy or complicated it is for a foreigner to buy a car in the Philippines? I’m thinking of buying a new SUV like a fortuner or something along those lines. Is vehicle insurance expensive? I’ve heard that if one ...
I don't know the details of finance for a new Car, I bought my new Fortuna cash. I've been looking at the cost of re-insuring the car when my free Toyota insurance expires. Insurance for the Fortuna seems to be much greater than for comparative ... Read More
Money Transfer by ppjhm
I am an American living outside Cagayan de Oro. I am looking for some output regarding money transfer from the U.S. to the Philippines other than bank to bank wire transfers as my bank's fees are overbearing. If anyone has any suggestion on ...
I'm not from the US but for GBP, I have used and recommend Wise. I note that Wise has been mentioned in an previous reply. Their service is very open and honest. If they can't provide the cheapest rate, they will often volunteer a list of ... Read More
Legazpi City by lcdrski
HI hope to be there in January 2022!! Retired Navy and 70 in good health, may have a part time postion here. Have been thru Wiki on this place have a good Filipina friend that lives near Baguio so will have some support thanks. JIM
I would also urge caution on travelling to the Philippines just now. I had, in effect, 36 days of quarantine after travelling 10km for a day trip to Cebu to sign some legal papers and failing, a re-introduced, swab test on my return. Because of that ... Read More
water heaters by onemore
Has anyone had any success with the instantaneous water heaters, as i just installed an AEG water heater in the house being built, but only get about 30 seconds of warm water. thanks
There is plenty of sun here for solar water heating. Read More
SRRV or Tourist Visa... that is the question! by tpiro
This is probably an old question but I couldn't find much on it. SRRV or Tourist Visa... that is the question. Wondering how many out there in Philippine land is still on a tourist visa and how long have you been there?.. From what I have ...
I have not tried to recoup my investment and I don't know anybody that has. This is the Philippines, where what ought to be easy is often very difficult. If I were to try to recoup my investment I would revert to a tourist visa and stay in the ... Read More
SRRV or Tourist Visa... that is the question! by tpiro
This is probably an old question but I couldn't find much on it. SRRV or Tourist Visa... that is the question. Wondering how many out there in Philippine land is still on a tourist visa and how long have you been there?.. From what I have ...
The advantages of an SRRV were related to travel. These advantages have been eroded with the COVID crisis. I run an international business so I need to travel. The last 18 months have been a bit of a disaster for me, although I have been keeping my ... Read More
Davao to stop accepting Sinovac and Sinopharm
Wow. Just got caught up on this thread. Amazing! What in the world makes so many people believe that they are entitled to post whatever opinion they want on a website? A website is owned by the creators of the site, much like a business or a ... Read More
Advantage / disadvantage between a 13A and a Balikbayan visa by pej1111
Just wondering what is the advantage / disadvantage between a 13A and a Balikbayan visa (on arrival in PHP with wife)? Pro's & Con's etc * Cost? * Benefits? * Administration? * Etc? Would be most appreciative of any input. Just ...
One advantage of the 13A you can enter the country about the same as a Filipino,, retirement visa holders were not allowed back in the country a few months ago, I don't know their status now, if your going to leave every year a BB stamp is the ... Read More
how much i can earn with raise a pig by giovannigio
i would like to ask expat people if someone know, how much it is possible to earn if i buy a baby pig for 1500, o 2500 php and then raise it , and then sell it when it is 100 kilo? thanks
If you don’t know about keeping pigs stay away from It , sunstroke disease and time effort and cost of feed , that’s my adviceI agree. My better half used to own two small pig farms. She always struggled to make a small profit. The pig ... Read More
Davao to stop accepting Sinovac and Sinopharm
No long rant from me today. Perhaps we should take a lesson from Wikipedia. I know that Wikipedia is not the best source of facts but it has its uses. Wikipedia is well moderated. Where claims are made, the moderators mark the issue as ... Read More
What are you missing in the Philippines? by Diksha
Hi everyone, Living in the Philippines, on the long or short run, it is completely normal to feel homesick sometimes. We would like to know what you are missing the most about your home country in the Philippines. Do you miss any aspects of ...
Common sense among politicians?Where in the world is that? I want to go there. Read More
What are you missing in the Philippines? by Diksha
Hi everyone, Living in the Philippines, on the long or short run, it is completely normal to feel homesick sometimes. We would like to know what you are missing the most about your home country in the Philippines. Do you miss any aspects of ...
Consumer protection and customer service that is contactable, listens, delivers, meets customer expectations and does not make false promises. Read More
Testing Positive on day 7 in Quarantine by PhilRes
Anybody been through what happens? Looking for experience not opinion please. Fully vacinated with Pfizer out of the USA, no symptoms, no co-morbidities, again already day 7 tomorrow...
This would make an informative YouTube story and bring shame to those responsible.Much as it might be fun to produce such a video, I do not have the necessary skills to make it interesting. However, the link below is a rather lengthy but very ... Read More
Davao to stop accepting Sinovac and Sinopharm
[ Most of the members of this forum are old enough to be parents of the moderator. I think the members of this forum are capable of deciding for themselves what is disinformation without any help.I agree wholeheartedly with Enzyte Bob. i appreciate ... Read More
Testing Positive on day 7 in Quarantine by PhilRes
Anybody been through what happens? Looking for experience not opinion please. Fully vacinated with Pfizer out of the USA, no symptoms, no co-morbidities, again already day 7 tomorrow...
As to conspiracies about hotel biz -you got better system, all ears. Other counties answers is just to ban everybody.....That's an easy solution. Decouple the quarantine hotels from DOH allocation. There are lengthy lists of DOH registered ... Read More
TransferWise by Enzyte Bob
I've been using TransferWise for two years now, matter of fact I've had 51 transfers with them . I know some of you other Expats use TransferWise. Usually the money comes within a couple hours, now I checked on my recent transfer and they ...
Do you need to be verified with Transferwise ( Wise) to send money overseas to a friends account bank to bank? I registered last night, gave all her details in Vietnam, gave my card details including CVV which I was nervous as the URL didn’t ... Read More
Too many shots to the head? by Enzyte Bob
Manny Pacquiano plans to run for president in 2022.
Good point my friend..HE IS NOT EDUCATED ENOUGH TO EVEN RUN FOR MAYOR!!!.. just stick to what the lord gave you paquio..!Looking at the calibre of other, current, world leaders, does it matter? :D Most of them seem to be making a hash of it. Steve Read More
Testing Positive on day 7 in Quarantine by PhilRes
Anybody been through what happens? Looking for experience not opinion please. Fully vacinated with Pfizer out of the USA, no symptoms, no co-morbidities, again already day 7 tomorrow...
Yes my son is in Manila he was going to come back to Davao, he passed the saliva test, he is vaccinated but they wanted him to have a swab test and he was positive so had to quarantine 14 days, they told him he would probably test positive again, so ... Read More
Testing Positive on day 7 in Quarantine by PhilRes
Anybody been through what happens? Looking for experience not opinion please. Fully vacinated with Pfizer out of the USA, no symptoms, no co-morbidities, again already day 7 tomorrow...
The card they may have wanted has Andrew Jackson's picture on it or maybe Benjamin Franklin's.I tried that route. For me though it would have more likely have been Winston Churchill, Alan Turing or Boulton & Watt, with of course HM Queen ... Read More
Testing Positive on day 7 in Quarantine by PhilRes
Anybody been through what happens? Looking for experience not opinion please. Fully vacinated with Pfizer out of the USA, no symptoms, no co-morbidities, again already day 7 tomorrow...
Did you say that you tested positive after being vaccinated? Three simple questions to ask yourself about vaccines: 1. Are they safe? 2. Do they work? 3. Are they necessary?This is getting a little off topic. Yes, I was fully vaccinated and tested ... Read More
Testing Positive on day 7 in Quarantine by PhilRes
Anybody been through what happens? Looking for experience not opinion please. Fully vacinated with Pfizer out of the USA, no symptoms, no co-morbidities, again already day 7 tomorrow...
Sadly with this ongoing lockdown in place, the tourism industry desperately needs its very own stimulus....(A forced 14 day quarantine in a local approved hotel serves that purpose $$$) :|I quarantined in Panglao on my return to Bohol. I had a few ... Read More
Testing Positive on day 7 in Quarantine by PhilRes
Anybody been through what happens? Looking for experience not opinion please. Fully vacinated with Pfizer out of the USA, no symptoms, no co-morbidities, again already day 7 tomorrow...
For the record, false negatives are the only genuine concern for PCR tests. Statistically, if that is what you want to think given a positive result then retest but do not decide not to deal with it.Be careful once you get to PH. Following a ... Read More
Testing Positive on day 7 in Quarantine by PhilRes
Anybody been through what happens? Looking for experience not opinion please. Fully vacinated with Pfizer out of the USA, no symptoms, no co-morbidities, again already day 7 tomorrow...
Hi Not quite the same situation. I had to travel to Cebu for, what should have been a day trip, to sign some papers. My better half and I chose the time because it matched with a reduction in COVID requirements. WHen we arrived in Cebu the ... Read More
Grease Money by Enzyte Bob
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has alerted foreign visitors against the proliferation of fake entry permits being offered on social media. The Immigration Bureau has received complaints about a new scam asking unsuspecting visitors to contact an ...
We had to have 4 of the sacred coconut trees removed in order to build the house. Tatay had to get a permit and pay P500 for each tree, even though he was the one to plant the trees. He had the guy cut them into planks and studs and built a cottage ... Read More
Grease Money by Enzyte Bob
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has alerted foreign visitors against the proliferation of fake entry permits being offered on social media. The Immigration Bureau has received complaints about a new scam asking unsuspecting visitors to contact an ...
Grease money in the Philippines is a fact of life and endemic down the whole of the supply chain. There is some level of corruption in most, if not all countries. In the UK corruption is well managed and at a very low level for the masses. However, ... Read More
Opening a online bank account by Sumomaster2004
Anyone have any advice on opening an online bank account that will accept direct deposit from US? Then i can transfer my money to my bank account here in PI. Like deposits from IRS.
Hi You will have to be present in the Philippines to open a bank account. This can be easy if you meet all of the account opening requirements. Be prepared to be able to show evidence that you intend to stay in the Philippines for some period. This ... Read More
Stranded in Cebu by BassMan_720
I needed to take a day trip from Bohol to sign some papers in Cebu. My partner and I negotiated a delay to the event to take advantage of relaxed travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers. The journey to Cebu was fairly relaxed, marred ...
Sorry to hear about dilemma BaseMan. Even here in the US false positives happen especially on saliva swabs. I hope you and your partner will not get sick from being around sick people while in quarantine.We managed to escape the Isolation Hotel on ... Read More
Covid Vaccine Followup by Enzyte Bob
My wife had her covid vaccine one month ago, I had my shot two weeks ago at different vaccine centers. We both are sick with the same symptoms. [b] What we have.[/b] (1) constant high fever topping out at 39.8 for almost one week. (2) constant ...
I agree. On health issues like this, emotion tops reason. Since it is wife's mother, I try to stay away from care decisions. I almost got myself in trouble when I asked if they checked their benefits with Phil Health. I guess they did not. It ... 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 ...
What happens to the 10 k? Does it make money. Can I get it back if I get sick? Suppose I decide I want to cancel it can I get it back?Yes, The deposit earns interest but it is a trivial amount and does not keep pace with inflation. And, yes, you can ... 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 ...
The biggest advantage of an SRRV for me is being able to go in and out of the Philippines without restriction or additional cost in the form of travel tax. This was an absolute necessity for my business. COVID has negated that advantage. Read More
Stranded in Cebu by BassMan_720
I needed to take a day trip from Bohol to sign some papers in Cebu. My partner and I negotiated a delay to the event to take advantage of relaxed travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers. The journey to Cebu was fairly relaxed, marred ...
Wow! Many thanks for the link. The hotel is almost exactly the same as my prison. The doors are the same but a different colour and the room and bathroom fittings are very similar. I suspect that they are both part of the same chain. No suspicion ... 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 ...
Hi PhilRes I'm glad to hear that you have been released. My timing is not so good. Even if released after 10 days, I can not return home until the Bohol travel ban is lifted on 20th. I don't know what happens after I'm released from ... Read More
Stranded in Cebu by BassMan_720
I needed to take a day trip from Bohol to sign some papers in Cebu. My partner and I negotiated a delay to the event to take advantage of relaxed travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers. The journey to Cebu was fairly relaxed, marred ...
Latest Update. Now too late to secure a ferry to Bohol before the lockdown. So, I'm not wasting any more energy trying to secure a re-test. Anyway, the latest response from the DOH is not helpful: "As per Emergency Operations center ... Read More
Stranded in Cebu by BassMan_720
I needed to take a day trip from Bohol to sign some papers in Cebu. My partner and I negotiated a delay to the event to take advantage of relaxed travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers. The journey to Cebu was fairly relaxed, marred ...
Well the hotel is happy to have a captive customer, lol.. The only thing I can think of is to have an attorney assist.Many thanks pnwcyclist. I'll pm you my details. Hopefully, we can sort this the local way. My partner is ex PNP so knows her ... Read More
Stranded in Cebu by BassMan_720
I needed to take a day trip from Bohol to sign some papers in Cebu. My partner and I negotiated a delay to the event to take advantage of relaxed travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers. The journey to Cebu was fairly relaxed, marred ...
I've been trying to get a re-test. In effect, I'm a prisoner in the hotel. DOH has advised that to get a new test. The Hotel must coordinate the relevant parties to arrange a test at the hotel. The hotel has, so far refused to cooperate, ... Read More
Stranded in Cebu
I needed to take a day trip from Bohol to sign some papers in Cebu. My partner and I negotiated a delay to the event to take advantage of relaxed travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers. The journey to Cebu was fairly relaxed, marred ... Read More
COVID vaccines by simonjduffy
Where to get vaccinated in Cebu and how much
Where to get vaccinated in Cebu and how muchI received my second jab in Buenavista Bohol last week. There was no charge. I had no problem getting the vaccine (Sinovac) and was told that there was plenty of supply because of the low take up. ... Read More
border open for tourist 1 jully by argentile
only for people who get vaccine since 14 days and from green list countries RESOLUTION NO. 123-C IATF you can find with google the pdf for more information they say any port so i can come direct to new panglao airport international? and about ...
steve they build new airport in panglao and is international and was open last year. now seem close because no tourist but will see 1 jully if reopening we need more information i contacted all autorities ph for have more info.I have used Panglao ... Read More
Covid Vaccine Followup by Enzyte Bob
My wife had her covid vaccine one month ago, I had my shot two weeks ago at different vaccine centers. We both are sick with the same symptoms. [b] What we have.[/b] (1) constant high fever topping out at 39.8 for almost one week. (2) constant ...
My better half and I had our second jab (Sinovac) yesterday. So far I have not had any side affects, My better half, on the other hand, has had some side affects for both jabs. She has a swollen and painful arm near to the injection site, a slight ... Read More
border open for tourist 1 jully by argentile
only for people who get vaccine since 14 days and from green list countries RESOLUTION NO. 123-C IATF you can find with google the pdf for more information they say any port so i can come direct to new panglao airport international? and about ...
only for people who get vaccine since 14 days and from green list countries RESOLUTION NO. 123-C IATF you can find with google the pdf for more information they say any port so i can come direct to new panglao airport international? and about ... Read More
Buying a new car in PH. by bigpearl
You know I have purchased plenty of new cars over the last 40 years of my new car buying existence and in Australia, Ford, Holden (GM), Toyota, Mercedes, Peugeot and Audi that have always given the 3 years warranty without questions asked or trying ...
I've not had good experience with Pilipino mechanics, I have no experience with Chinese mechanics here. (Not many about where I live.) My experience is so bad that I have vowed to look after my vehicles myself, even if I have to obtain ... Read More
Getting Travel Pass OUT of phil as SRRV w/ family of SRRV by PhilRes
Just a quick note - I have gone online to get travel pass and form just has for me and if I traveling with other SRRV companions - not sure if that will get me a pass good for my wife and kids....no response of course. I will go into the office ...
I'm just about to start the process of transferring my SRRV deposit. DBP did not provide the transparency and auditability necessary for my own purposes. I have just now, minutes ago, received the appropriate form from PRA (not a very good ... Read More
Transferwise by Dine Han
Do I need to open an account in Transferwise and cash in 20GBP to receive payment from my foreign employer?
As I stated in my earlier post. I have not found any difficulty transferring money to the Philippines. One of my clients, pays me in GBP from the UAE! directly into my Philippine bank account. Transferwise is also easy. As stated by emvaningen, ... Read More
Transferwise by Dine Han
Do I need to open an account in Transferwise and cash in 20GBP to receive payment from my foreign employer?
Do you mean that to want your employer to send GBP200 to your Philippine bank? If so, that should be straight forward and your employer can send GBP directly to your Philippine PHP account. There will be some bank charges (transfer fee and currency ... Read More
Warning SRRV: opportunists and overcharging by emvaningen
Now it seems that restrictions on SRRV are gradually being lifted I think that some may find the following statements helpful. 1. Applying for SRRV can be done directly at the PRA office or via so-called marketers, who often provide good help with ...
I have found the PRA staff at their Cebu office very pleasant and easy to deal with. I obtained my original SRRV without external help and without problem. With some guidance from the PRA officer, the full application process was completed in one ... Read More
vacination by dirk c
who can give information on vacination in the Philippines? do we need to get registrated first? who will be first once the frontline workers are vacinated? please all who have information share , so we who want to get vacination know what to do ...
Does anybody have news about vaccinations for Bohol? From what I can find vaccinations are only available to frontline healthcare workers in Tagbilaran. Read More
Relocating to the Philippines by Parvaze
Hi all - Just a quick introduction. My name is Parvaze, I was born and grew up in Scotland and been living in Southern California, USA for the past 30 years. I'm looking to move to the Philippines by the end of 2022 so currently gathering ...
I enjoy living on Bohol. I'm in a very quiet location in Sweetland in the North of the Island. COVID has had a minimal impact here, with only a handful of cases. However, day to day living here is very Philippine. There are very few amenities ... Read More
NBI Hit (National Bureau of Investigation) by pej1111
[b][i]I have recently had a "HIT" with NBI when applying for a NBI clearance.[/i][/b] [u]Just wondering if any one else had has this occur and how you managed it?[/u] No, I have not committed any criminal activities or broken the law in ...
My Better half, a Filipina, has this problem whenever she needs to deal with NBI. Apparently there is somebody in Leyte with the same name who has a record with NBI. All gets sorted each time but it is never a surprise when things take a little ... Read More
Vaccines required in the Philippines by Diksha
Hello everybody, When living or moving abroad, and in particular in the Philippines, vaccination against certain diseases is often required to enter the country or to avoid risks. We would like to ask you a few questions to help future expats ...
Given the choice, I would follow your advice. However, I have not been able to travel for my work in the last 12 months. I will probably need to be vaccinated to be able to travel on occasion and help stop my previously thriving small business going ... Read More
is tourist flights open in february 2021 ? by mauovernet
is tourist flights open in february 2021 ? someone insid philipines toldme that flight are open this year is that true to travel from LATIN AMERICA ? central america ? thanks
With the latest update, SRRV now gets you into the country. In addition to the usual COVID-19 requirements, quarantine, hotel booking, tests, etc,, you will need Entry Exemption documents issued by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). ... Read More
TransferWise by Enzyte Bob
I've been using TransferWise for two years now, matter of fact I've had 51 transfers with them . I know some of you other Expats use TransferWise. Usually the money comes within a couple hours, now I checked on my recent transfer and they ...
Hi I haven't used Transferwise for a while. I have sometimes experienced delays. These were always related to my Philippine bank. Transfers to Hong Kong and to UK have always been without delay and often much faster than the estimated transfer ... Read More
i'm getting skinny by Soonretired
when these people cut up a pig or cow or chicken there is nothing left to eat.the other day they butchered a pig and rose brought me a plate and it was stacked with 2 inch chunks of breaded pork, i tried to eat it and found out it was big bones with ...
The OP just about sums up the food here. I tend to eat a separate meal of what is considered as a western diet. What I receive is not western but it's a big improvement on the local food. I do eat rice but not in the vast quantities eaten by ... Read More
SRRV Visa. by Dennis uk
hi ,is it possible to arrive on a 30 day visa from uk and possibly apply for SRRV Visa in manila while in country?
As Scott-Davao has said, you will need your police certificate from the UK before you come here. You can apply online at www.crbdirect.org.uk/dbscheck/apply or www.acro.police.uk. This will need to be legalised by the Foreign & Commonwealth ... Read More
Philippine Postal System by Enzyte Bob
Today, Sept 4, 2020 I received two premium notices from United of Omaha, one post marked March 19 and the other July 10. I'm sure Covid had something to do with this late delivery. Now United of Omaha mails out the notices a month before the ...
Fully agree about Ninja Van. Great service and quick. :) LBC and 2Go have much to be desired. :mad: Read More
Visa Types by Tariq072283
I was wondering since tourist visas are temporarily suspended what are other types of visas to fly to the philippines on
I suppose I could try getting a government post!!!!!! Read More
Visa Types by Tariq072283
I was wondering since tourist visas are temporarily suspended what are other types of visas to fly to the philippines on
I live with my partner here in the Philippines. However, I we are not married, for financial reasons linked to a litigeous and spiteful ex wife. I hold a resident's visa and I am a business man with interests worldwide. And yes, my company has ... Read More
Visa Types by Tariq072283
I was wondering since tourist visas are temporarily suspended what are other types of visas to fly to the philippines on
Sorry to dissapoint you but, as part of COVID-19 restrictions Foreign Service Circular No. 36-2020 prohibits entry of many foreign Nationals to the Philippines. There is no estimate on when these restrictions will be lifted. For me, with a residence ... Read More
Recommended Pick up truck by Mhammond40
Need to buy a pick up truck and would like recommendations. Diesel or petroleum?
I bought one not long after I first arrived in the Philippines. It was assembled for me and I am the first registered owner in the Philippines. The model year is somewhere between 2008-2012. I bought a van type not a pickup. The car has done its ... Read More
What's your take riding a motorcycle in the Philippines as an expat? by Jackson4
Now as an older person with more time on my hands and a little more cash in my pocket, this wild man in me wanting to ride a motorcycle in the Philippines to feel the wind in my remaining hair. What's your experience?
And dont forget the roadworks with no advance signage. And the signage that is there is non reflective. Read More
Foreigner and PHP bank accounts by alchemist80
Hi, I am an Australian national and I have a condominium in Cebu that I use on and off for holidays. I would like to rent it out occasionally, but I do not have a bank account that allows PHP deposits. Last time I was in Philippines I went to all ...
You live and learn. I had no idea that the validity of the card could be for more than one year. I'll know better next time. Read More
Foreigner and PHP bank accounts by alchemist80
Hi, I am an Australian national and I have a condominium in Cebu that I use on and off for holidays. I would like to rent it out occasionally, but I do not have a bank account that allows PHP deposits. Last time I was in Philippines I went to all ...
If PRA could issue a temp receipt. Then they ought to be able to issue the card. PRA offices have started working again only this week. I assume everything will have to wait until the backlog is cleared. Anyway, no use worrying. Can't travel yet ... Read More
Foreigner and PHP bank accounts by alchemist80
Hi, I am an Australian national and I have a condominium in Cebu that I use on and off for holidays. I would like to rent it out occasionally, but I do not have a bank account that allows PHP deposits. Last time I was in Philippines I went to all ...
The SRRV Card hits the spot for me as ID for just about everything. It's a bit of a sore point at the moment. My card is about to expire. The actual SRRV Visa is indefinate. I have paid the PRA my membership fee for its replacement but issue is ... Read More
Foreigner and PHP bank accounts by alchemist80
Hi, I am an Australian national and I have a condominium in Cebu that I use on and off for holidays. I would like to rent it out occasionally, but I do not have a bank account that allows PHP deposits. Last time I was in Philippines I went to all ...
One more thing. When applying for your SRRV, I strongly recommend a face to face chat at the PRA office in Cebu. The published advice makes the process seem very complex, particularly the US$ transfer process, which broke at least two money ... Read More
Foreigner and PHP bank accounts by alchemist80
Hi, I am an Australian national and I have a condominium in Cebu that I use on and off for holidays. I would like to rent it out occasionally, but I do not have a bank account that allows PHP deposits. Last time I was in Philippines I went to all ...
Hi I went for the SRRV Classic. For me the application requirements for both were the same. The Classic had the added advantage of giving the option of using the deposit to purchase condominium units or use for long term lease of house and lot. I ... Read More
Foreigner and PHP bank accounts by alchemist80
Hi, I am an Australian national and I have a condominium in Cebu that I use on and off for holidays. I would like to rent it out occasionally, but I do not have a bank account that allows PHP deposits. Last time I was in Philippines I went to all ...
Also, If you have any problems opening an account, the staff at the PRA satelite office are really helpful. They offered to help if I were to encounter any issues. I had no need for their further involvement. Steve Read More
Foreigner and PHP bank accounts by alchemist80
Hi, I am an Australian national and I have a condominium in Cebu that I use on and off for holidays. I would like to rent it out occasionally, but I do not have a bank account that allows PHP deposits. Last time I was in Philippines I went to all ...
Hi Opening a bank account as an SRRV holder is really easy. I applied for my SRRV as soon as I arrived in the philippines from an overseas work commitment. The SRRV was obtained within the target 30 days so I didn't need to extend my tourist ... Read More
SAFEST way to transfer money from US to PI account? by dimplesz14
Hi everyone! Hope all is well with yah all! quick question, what would be the SAFEST, easiest and cheapest way to send money from U.S. to Philippine account? Also, should we have multiple bank accounts back home to be safe? We need to plan this so ...
I too have a borderless account with Transferwise, together with a charge card. In my case GBP, HKD and PHP. I virtually lived off the charge card for my first few months in the Philippines, until I could open a bank account here. The charge card ... Read More
What's your take riding a motorcycle in the Philippines as an expat? by Jackson4
Now as an older person with more time on my hands and a little more cash in my pocket, this wild man in me wanting to ride a motorcycle in the Philippines to feel the wind in my remaining hair. What's your experience?
I'm also an avid motorcyclist with three machines back in the UK. My wife has an interest in a motorcycle shop (bodge shack) here on Bohol so I have access to the normal small machines often in use here. As to the risks, motorcycling here is ... Read More
Wait Until I'm in the Phils to Apply for SRRV? by voyager39
I'm posting to verify an understanding I got from an internet site somewhere. I read that the best approach for pursuing an SRRV visa is to arrive in the Phils on a tourist visa, and to to apply for the SRRV once in-country. The stated reasons ...
Hi I waited until I was in the Philippines and I am very glad that I did. The written information on SRRV application is very confusing and inaccurate. A walk in visit to the PRA answered all my questions. The actual process can be quite easy, if ... Read More
SRRV Classic Procedures - Philippines by carl_g2013
It is not clear to me the sequence of activities to utilize the required SRRV bank deposit toward the purchase of a condominium. Does one purchase the condo first, before depositing the $ 10,000 at a PRA bank and obtaining the visa or obtain the ...
Hi Chivalrous0 You should get - a copy of affirmation of membership - a copy of the BI order - confirmation of receipt of your deposit to DBP. I didn't ask about a photo but the staff were helpful and I don't think they would have ... Read More
PRA SRRV US $ Deposit by Guestposter8964
Will soon be on the way to Philippine and hope I will get a Retirement Visa without to much hassle as soon I get my Medical examination done. I have a couple of questions that I am not clear about, already asked PRA by e-mail but never got an ...
So much for an easy ride in getting a driving license..... Yesterday, I had a day spare so after doing a few online checks (silly me) I set off to the LTO Extension Office in Talibon. to be there for the advertised 10:00 opening. When I arrived, I ... Read More
PRA SRRV US $ Deposit by Guestposter8964
Will soon be on the way to Philippine and hope I will get a Retirement Visa without to much hassle as soon I get my Medical examination done. I have a couple of questions that I am not clear about, already asked PRA by e-mail but never got an ...
Hi Munchie I felt a little uncomfortable about posting contact details directly on the forum so I've sent you a PM. Mmmm! I've not heard of a pre-approval. Are you sure this was a genuine seminar? There are alot of marketeers out there ... Read More
PRA SRRV US $ Deposit by Guestposter8964
Will soon be on the way to Philippine and hope I will get a Retirement Visa without to much hassle as soon I get my Medical examination done. I have a couple of questions that I am not clear about, already asked PRA by e-mail but never got an ...
Hi All After a long delay I collected my SRRV last week. I had planned to apply in March, on my 60th birthday but managed to find myself a good contract in Qatar for a while. So I came back to the Philippines to apply for my SRRV before my ... Read More
Internet Speed and Reliabiity by bizwizard
I have been staying in Davao, and the internet speed here has mostly been somewhere south of 1 Mbps, both on PLDT and Globe cellular. Occasionally it goes up to 2 or 3, but it also goes below 0.1 a lot. My business needs internet, and I can't ...
Every couple of weeks!!!!! In my time here on Bohol, just over two weeks, a day has not passed when there hasn't been a power outage. They are often just for a few minutes but still a pain. I don't know if the power takes down the broadband ... Read More
Internet Speed and Reliabiity by bizwizard
I have been staying in Davao, and the internet speed here has mostly been somewhere south of 1 Mbps, both on PLDT and Globe cellular. Occasionally it goes up to 2 or 3, but it also goes below 0.1 a lot. My business needs internet, and I can't ...
I'm into my second week in Buenavista, Bohol. The internet where I am is a whopping 5 Mbps but I am sharing that with several other users. I have just ordered a 20 Mbps service from PLDT but I have no idea what speeds it will actually ... Read More
SRRV some basic questions by Buzzardman
I live in UK and am looking to move out to Philippines on a SRRV. I have been googling away for information on the details of the procedures and have a couple of questions that I am not clear about. Sorry if they seem a bit simplistic, but I would ...
I checked on the above with PRA yesterday. It is possible to change from a non-pension SRRV to a pension SRRV but through a new application. This will be subject to the application fee of $1400. I've had a nice little surprise that, because of ... Read More
PRA SRRV US $ Deposit by Guestposter8964
Will soon be on the way to Philippine and hope I will get a Retirement Visa without to much hassle as soon I get my Medical examination done. I have a couple of questions that I am not clear about, already asked PRA by e-mail but never got an ...
Many thanks again. Proof of address is not a problem so I am fit to go. I'll enjoy confusing the officials with my second UK passport as alternative proof of ID. The BDO Branch in Cebu IT Park is now on the accredited list. so I'll try to ... Read More
PRA SRRV US $ Deposit by Guestposter8964
Will soon be on the way to Philippine and hope I will get a Retirement Visa without to much hassle as soon I get my Medical examination done. I have a couple of questions that I am not clear about, already asked PRA by e-mail but never got an ...
I have a question for Buzzard Man which requires a long explanation. Incidentally, I am currently in Fenny Stratford, just up the road from Leighton Buzzard. I am very interested in the process you used with opening an account with BDO. I am ready ... Read More
Leaving and re-enterring Philippines on 59 day visa. by BassMan_720
I've just left the Philippine Embassy in London. I had intended to obtain a 1 year multiple entry visa, which would have given me multiple entries of 59 days maximum for the 1 year period. This would have been ideal for me as I plan to do ...
Thanks for the further advice. I might be on a perpetual 30 day visa. This concerns me, as I have been hearing some horror stories about entry refusals for people with a large number of entry stamps, particularly at Cebu, which will be my entry ... Read More
Leaving and re-enterring Philippines on 59 day visa. by BassMan_720
I've just left the Philippine Embassy in London. I had intended to obtain a 1 year multiple entry visa, which would have given me multiple entries of 59 days maximum for the 1 year period. This would have been ideal for me as I plan to do ...
Many thanks for your reply. Advice from tour friend would be really appreciated. Pre-arranged non-immigration visas have 3 forms. 3 month single entry 6 month multiple entry 1 year multiple entry. All allow maximum stay for 59 days and all can be ... Read More
Leaving and re-enterring Philippines on 59 day visa.
I've just left the Philippine Embassy in London. I had intended to obtain a 1 year multiple entry visa, which would have given me multiple entries of 59 days maximum for the 1 year period. This would have been ideal for me as I plan to do ... Read More