moonunit0103
American looking for information about Philippines
Forum posts
303
Contacts
5
About me
American
Lives in Ormoc City, Eastern Visayas
Speaks English, learning Bisaya.
Registration: 16 November 2018
GF and Extent of Her Family Involvement by moonunit0103
Hi, After spending 6 weeks traveling with my GF through the Central Visayas, we go to Ormoc, Leyte, to visit her family. I have been letting her handling my money and she keeps meticulous records for our travels, and assumed she would be as ...
@adriano69 Best not to go to Philippines to see just one person unless you have already met in person. 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 ...
A complaint I have is with the littering, trash all over the place. Folks don't think twice about pitching wrappers, cups, most anything lacking value. Once I was snorkeling near a resort, and trash covered the bottom. A real shame to see that ... 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 ...
An OFW friend had both shots in UAE, and when she arrived, she had to quarantine 14 days, then quarantine again in Ormoc. Read More
I'm sure this is already known BUT by Arcadieus
Avoid Manila for the time being. We just lost our friend who was 34 years old to covid. The guy was in perfect health, worked out and had no preexisting conditions. He lived right outside Manila and went there to pick up some bulk food for his ...
Saw this article. FDA is under investigation by Congress. There is a human version of ivermectin available by prescription, but the article only mentions veterinary version, for reasons unknown to ... Read More
Second stimulus paper check by sarahw45
Hello! Has anyone received their second stimulus check via mail yet? Still waiting on mine... and I saw that some people in Taiwan received theirs a few weeks ago. Hoping it will be soon!
My $1400 was direct deposited into the samechecking account where my Social Security check gets direct deposited yesterday. Read More
I'm sure this is already known BUT by Arcadieus
Avoid Manila for the time being. We just lost our friend who was 34 years old to covid. The guy was in perfect health, worked out and had no preexisting conditions. He lived right outside Manila and went there to pick up some bulk food for his ...
I am planning to return to the US in about a month. Are there incoming domestic flights to NAIA and departing international flights at this time? Should I depart from Cebu instead, and bypass MNL altogether? Read More
I'm sure this is already known BUT by Arcadieus
Avoid Manila for the time being. We just lost our friend who was 34 years old to covid. The guy was in perfect health, worked out and had no preexisting conditions. He lived right outside Manila and went there to pick up some bulk food for his ...
... Read More
I'm sure this is already known BUT by Arcadieus
Avoid Manila for the time being. We just lost our friend who was 34 years old to covid. The guy was in perfect health, worked out and had no preexisting conditions. He lived right outside Manila and went there to pick up some bulk food for his ...
Here is a link to numerous peer-reviewed studies showing effectiveness. NOT UNPROVEN. These doctors are on the front lines, widely published, medical school affiliated. Your studies are promoted by Big Pharma, and it is all about the money. ... Read More
I'm sure this is already known BUT by Arcadieus
Avoid Manila for the time being. We just lost our friend who was 34 years old to covid. The guy was in perfect health, worked out and had no preexisting conditions. He lived right outside Manila and went there to pick up some bulk food for his ...
Too bad the government is not making use of this protocol, proven in studies to work. Until vaccines are widespread, why not use this? https://covid19criticalcare.com/flccc-alliance-i-maskplus-protocol-english/ 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 ...
When I came here in 2018 the US State Dept. advised but did not require me to get vacinated against Hep A and B, which i did through the VA. Philippines does require (as far as I know) to have the covid vacine and they DO require this for domestic ... Read More
What to do in Manila❓ If Im semi retired, coming from USA 🇺🇸 by KenUSA
Hi everyone! Need your Advice.... What should I do if I decide to kinda semi-retire in the Philippines 🇵🇭 I have 2 Condos in BGC: Bonifacio Global City. I can stay in 1 of them. I have visited Manila 5 times... Just for a Holiday ...
I am writing in Manila, near Mall of Asia, which is virtually a ghost town. Masks and faceshields are mandatory. Travel restrictions, but parts of Pasay are under lockdown due to a CV19 outbreak. Wife had medical exam Thursday and Friday, and ... Read More
My developing plans to load my IATA "Travel Pass" -COVID passport by Calif-Native
I have made this a new topic, although it relates to the SRRV topic, it covers nearly all foreign travelers to the Philippines, regardless of visa types. This will be the first time I talk about this here and even when I may use "strange or ...
Proof of having both doses of vaccines does not prove immunity. AstraZenith trials in South Africa halted due to vaccine being 10% effective. Have also read reports of an annual Covid vaccine, due to mutations. Too bad things are so complicated, ... Read More
Expat With Kids From Previous Marriage by moonunit0103
Well, it seems after a FB exchange with my oldest daughter, 33, I am now estranged from all 3 of my kids. This is after buying her a PortoCrib two days ago for her second baby due in April. She seems really miffed that I have not sent her money, ...
I have an update. My entitled daughter has blocked me and my wife on FB. Maybe it is for the best. I would rather give money to deserving kids here than to my uncaring and ungrateful offspring. Read More
Expat With Kids From Previous Marriage
Well, it seems after a FB exchange with my oldest daughter, 33, I am now estranged from all 3 of my kids. This is after buying her a PortoCrib two days ago for her second baby due in April. She seems really miffed that I have not sent her money, ... 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 ...
I took all the recommended vaccines except for Japanese Encephalitis. My now-wife who is a public health nurse told me it only was in Palawan, not in the Visayas, where we live. Saved a few hundred $$$ skipping it. Read More
Home quarantaine allowed? by coach53
I heared from NOT officials, but that Filipina sourse is correct normaly, so perhaps worth researching for them it concern. She talked about quarantaine when coming back to home after being in other zone at other island inside Phils. She said it ...
My wife and I were able to quarantine at home after a day trip to Tacloban last month. House has to be inspected and approved by a sanitation inspector from the Health Department. Read More
Advice on Marriage/Situation At HAnd by William Greenlee
I am 59 and have met a 30 year old school teacher who has a child with c/palsy. I too have a Son with c/palsy. I have had my Son by myself for 18 years. I decided I would open to possible marriage but I am only interested in a Filipino. So we met. ...
https://youtu.be/YruykV9pSPA https://youtu.be/M5h0WdE2Yag A Wise man learns from the mistakes of others......... Read More
Advice on Marriage/Situation At HAnd by William Greenlee
I am 59 and have met a 30 year old school teacher who has a child with c/palsy. I too have a Son with c/palsy. I have had my Son by myself for 18 years. I decided I would open to possible marriage but I am only interested in a Filipino. So we met. ...
Seems like the guy is ignoring any advice. Why did he bother to even ask? Read More
Advice on Marriage/Situation At HAnd by William Greenlee
I am 59 and have met a 30 year old school teacher who has a child with c/palsy. I too have a Son with c/palsy. I have had my Son by myself for 18 years. I decided I would open to possible marriage but I am only interested in a Filipino. So we met. ...
You, sir, are infactuated with your Video Pen Pal. And the effects are similar to a drug high, according to research. Listen to what these guys are saying. Read More
Advice on Marriage/Situation At HAnd by William Greenlee
I am 59 and have met a 30 year old school teacher who has a child with c/palsy. I too have a Son with c/palsy. I have had my Son by myself for 18 years. I decided I would open to possible marriage but I am only interested in a Filipino. So we met. ...
IF YOU HAVE NOT MET IN PERSON, YOU ARE GLORIFIED PENPALS!!! NEVER SEND MONEY TO SOMEONE YOU HAVE NEVER MET IN PERSON. When I was on FC 2 months before my first trip, I used filters,bachelor degree, nurses or teachers, mainly for their English ... Read More
13A yearly stamp by dirk c
having 13A visa we need to go emigration every yr to get anual report, cost 310 peso ,i wonder with the covid situation do we need to get this or can we wait til the vactinations are done ? i tryed to contact the Davao emigration about this but got ...
I was in BI last week to pick up my ACR-I card and extend my tourist Visa another 6 months. To be able to drive to Tacloban from Ormoc and back same day legally, we had to get permits from 4 different government agencies and have our house ... Read More
Trying to decide where to retire in the Philippines by Jackson4
I am trying work up a plan to retire in a few short years. Likely wintering in the Philippines or maybe more. I am still torn which region would be more appealing: the Visayas area or the Ilocos region. I never cared for big city, forget it. ...
My wife's childhood friend, an otherwise healthy 31 year old, died of a stroke last night. He had surgery last week to relieve pressure and stop the bleeding. I can't help but think if he had been in the US instead of Cebu, he would still ... Read More
Trying to decide where to retire in the Philippines by Jackson4
I am trying work up a plan to retire in a few short years. Likely wintering in the Philippines or maybe more. I am still torn which region would be more appealing: the Visayas area or the Ilocos region. I never cared for big city, forget it. ...
Health care can be a concern outside of Manila, Cebu, or Davao. With Covid 19, I am unable to see my endocrinologist in Cebu. And, here in Ormoc, the laboratory cannot test my Cortisol levels, which means, basically no medical care. Read More
State Department has Resumed Visa Interviews by moonunit0103
Hi, My wife just got a notice that the US Embassy has scheduled a Visa interview for her February 4. I have a flight to US January 31, so I will be rescheduling that to when we can fly together. Thought some of you might be interested.
Not sure if we can travel to Manila without having to sit through a 14 day quarantine. Wife needs passport updated to married name before Visa interview, but travel between Ormoc and Tacloban requires APOR permit, travel passes and health ... Read More
State Department has Resumed Visa Interviews
Hi, My wife just got a notice that the US Embassy has scheduled a Visa interview for her February 4. I have a flight to US January 31, so I will be rescheduling that to when we can fly together. Thought some of you might be interested. Read More
renew visa behind 3 years by mikebrant1973
is anyone renew is tourist visa behind 3 years , as its hard to go out of the country and come back (visa run)
I doubt it. Not sure what will happen, but the idea of rotting in a Philippines jail while awaiting deportation is not very appealing. I would call the US embassy. You may be one of many who are illegal aliens. Read More
Trying to decide where to retire in the Philippines by Jackson4
I am trying work up a plan to retire in a few short years. Likely wintering in the Philippines or maybe more. I am still torn which region would be more appealing: the Visayas area or the Ilocos region. I never cared for big city, forget it. ...
Not when ferries are shut down due to the Chinese Virus. 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 ...
My wife got a gas range last year, and makes pizza, and all sort of desserts, including apple pie (homemade crust), cheesecake, baked spaghetti, Fettuccini, yellow cake (made from scratch, no cake mixes), and recently started making cassava cake. ... 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 ...
Another thing to deal with is MSG is added to EVERYTHING. Magic Sarap is full of it. I am very sensitive to it, so we rarely go out to eat. My Filipina wife spent 2 days and nights in the hospital with likely Ciguatera Toxin poisoning. She had ... Read More
Leaving phillipines, returning to Singapore by Richard Yan
What are the requirements/ procedures? 1) leaving phillipines, exit permit, etc. 2) returning to Singapore 3) which Airline is good? Thanks bros for input.
Bureau of Immigration Tacloban District Office Kanhuraw Hill, Magsaysay Blvd Tacloban City Contact Numbers: 053 325 6004 Landline (Currently out of service) 09283798763 Smart/TNT 09164247002 Globe/TM E-mail: bi.tacloban@yahoo.com Read More
Leaving phillipines, returning to Singapore by Richard Yan
What are the requirements/ procedures? 1) leaving phillipines, exit permit, etc. 2) returning to Singapore 3) which Airline is good? Thanks bros for input.
I am in a weird situation in that I cannot travel to BI for my Exit Clearance ahead of my flight without a quarantine, unless I spend several days in Tacloban. I tried to call BI for clarification, but the calls did not connect. Read More
Good Hotel to Use Near NAIA Manila
Hi, I contacted US Embassy about hotels to use near Ninoy Aquino International Airport, but got a form letter reply. Any suggestions on a good hotel near the airport? Read More
Cost of Living in the Philippines in 2020 by Loïc
Hi everyone, Every year, we invite expats who are living in the Philippines to share their experience and tell us more about the average price of products and services in their town, city or area, so that we can help future expats planning to ...
Having a truck is very nice. But, if I have to go downtown, the parking spots are designed and sized more for tricycLes and scrums multicabs. I want to buy a motorbike, but what we have seems to work OK. Read More
I-864 Shows Insufficient Income by moonunit0103
Hi, I have been waiting for Visa interviews to resume. My wife got approved by NBC, then I submitted paperwork, along with tax forms, 1099s, bank statements, and brokerage statements from my IRA. Despite my Social Security benefits totalling ...
Maybe the person just took a quick look at my 1040 and made a snap judgment. Read More
I-864 Shows Insufficient Income
Hi, I have been waiting for Visa interviews to resume. My wife got approved by NBC, then I submitted paperwork, along with tax forms, 1099s, bank statements, and brokerage statements from my IRA. Despite my Social Security benefits totalling ... Read More
Expat Just Bought House, Young Wife Possible Problem by moonunit0103
Hi, An 64 year old expat from Texas has bought a house down the street from me with his 28 year old wife. Since the GCQ has started, she has not allowed him to travel to the house, where things are being readied to move in. She also is not ...
They have Social Services if the guy is getting abused. Read More
Went out after six months by Enzyte Bob
This was the first time for me leaving the house since March 19, last time out went to S&R, first time out this time back to S&R. It's like sex, you remember the first time & the last time and nothing in between. We've been ...
Filipinos can cook, but 95% only cook with a gas cooktop or use firewood to fry or boil things. Having an oven adds a whole dimension to cooking. Read More
Went out after six months by Enzyte Bob
This was the first time for me leaving the house since March 19, last time out went to S&R, first time out this time back to S&R. It's like sex, you remember the first time & the last time and nothing in between. We've been ...
My wife's family got a gas range last year, and they had never used an oven before. I showed my wife how to make pizza dough, and now, I would not buy a pizza out, her's is so good. The stores quit carrying pepperoni back in January, but ... Read More
Went out after six months by Enzyte Bob
This was the first time for me leaving the house since March 19, last time out went to S&R, first time out this time back to S&R. It's like sex, you remember the first time & the last time and nothing in between. We've been ...
GRAB in Cebu usually ran about 50% more than using a taxi, paying cash, from what I experienced before the lockdown. I wish they had an S&R here in Ormoc City. Read More
Best way to Convert $80K into PHPs by moonunit0103
Hi, My wife and I have found some acreage that we wish to purchase, and I have the cash in a US Bank. I have used Western Union and TransferWise, but the amount exceeds their maximum. Suggestions? PS: What should I demand, besides the title ...
An update: walked the boundaries of the land, which is next to a new subdivision being built, yesterday. There are 2 squatter houses on the property (4HA), the rest in sugar cane. About 1/3 of the land is in a river gorge, which is unusable. I ... Read More
Expat Just Bought House, Young Wife Possible Problem by moonunit0103
Hi, An 64 year old expat from Texas has bought a house down the street from me with his 28 year old wife. Since the GCQ has started, she has not allowed him to travel to the house, where things are being readied to move in. She also is not ...
Man had mumps, is sterile. Except for the money paid for the house, not sure why he stays. Plenty of good, faithful women around. Read More
Balikbayan Boxes: How long to arrive from US post CV19? by moonunit0103
Hi, Wanted to find out how long to expect a Balikbayan Box to arrive from the East Coast US to Leyte, Post CV19. Have been very frustrated at the snail's pace using myus.com. I paid for my order to ship out 11 days ago, but it still has not ...
I have a FEDEX order that was supposed to have arrived September 15, still not here. I keep getting notifications that the package is scheduled to arrive the day before by 6pm. Read More
Expat Just Bought House, Young Wife Possible Problem by moonunit0103
Hi, An 64 year old expat from Texas has bought a house down the street from me with his 28 year old wife. Since the GCQ has started, she has not allowed him to travel to the house, where things are being readied to move in. She also is not ...
An update: my neighbor asked for help to find someone to follow his wife, and my wife found someone who followed her to a pharmacy, then to a boarding house, where she stayed for a couple of hours. Next day, back to boarding house, photos ... Read More
When will US Embassy Resume Visa Interviews?
Hi, My wife has an interview pending with US Embassy for her CR-1 Visa/Green Card. Interviews have been suspended since March due to CV19. I am supposed to have cochlear implant surgery upon return to US, and am waiting for the green light from ... Read More
Best way to Convert $80K into PHPs by moonunit0103
Hi, My wife and I have found some acreage that we wish to purchase, and I have the cash in a US Bank. I have used Western Union and TransferWise, but the amount exceeds their maximum. Suggestions? PS: What should I demand, besides the title ...
There is a cap of ₱480,000 using TransferWise. Looking for a way to do one transfer with the best exchange rate/lowest fees. Read More
Best way to Convert $80K into PHPs by moonunit0103
Hi, My wife and I have found some acreage that we wish to purchase, and I have the cash in a US Bank. I have used Western Union and TransferWise, but the amount exceeds their maximum. Suggestions? PS: What should I demand, besides the title ...
Yes, will be married a year coming up this December. Have a fantastic wife, her family is great, so I don't see much downside. The property is nestled between large developers who have bought adjacent parcels. No hurry to build a house for ... Read More
Best way to Convert $80K into PHPs by moonunit0103
Hi, My wife and I have found some acreage that we wish to purchase, and I have the cash in a US Bank. I have used Western Union and TransferWise, but the amount exceeds their maximum. Suggestions? PS: What should I demand, besides the title ...
I have a peso account at BDO, but not a USD account. Maybe I should look into that. Read More
Best way to Convert $80K into PHPs
Hi, My wife and I have found some acreage that we wish to purchase, and I have the cash in a US Bank. I have used Western Union and TransferWise, but the amount exceeds their maximum. Suggestions? PS: What should I demand, besides the title ... Read More
9a - 13a visa advice seeked - thanks by GuestPoster0510
Hello All again. Just a bit of advice if i may to escape the costs of a solicitor! Flying into Manila in a few days. Quarantine is 2 days max until the airport test is returned then a further 14 day home quarantine is required. I will enter on a ...
The best thing to do, since you are flying in with your wife, is to present your marriage contract with your Passport at immigration at the airport, and ask for a Balikbayan Stamp, good for one year. Maybe someone else can elaborate. Read More
Getting Philippines Driving License nowadays? by kindawn
Anyone tried to convert or get a new Philippines driving license since the pandemic started? I heard there were quite a lots of changes compared to last year so just wonder how was your experience, especially in metro manila. I'm planning to get ...
What do you need a fixer for? Read More
Getting Philippines Driving License nowadays? by kindawn
Anyone tried to convert or get a new Philippines driving license since the pandemic started? I heard there were quite a lots of changes compared to last year so just wonder how was your experience, especially in metro manila. I'm planning to get ...
Right now, if you are 60 or older, LTO will send you away, due to CV19 restrictions. You need your ACR-I card, your country of origin Drivers License, complete an application, get a Medical Certificate, pay your fees, have your photo snapped, and ... Read More
Balikbayan Boxes: How long to arrive from US post CV19? by moonunit0103
Hi, Wanted to find out how long to expect a Balikbayan Box to arrive from the East Coast US to Leyte, Post CV19. Have been very frustrated at the snail's pace using myus.com. I paid for my order to ship out 11 days ago, but it still has not ...
Any suggestions as to myus.com alternatives? Read More
Balikbayan Boxes: How long to arrive from US post CV19?
Hi, Wanted to find out how long to expect a Balikbayan Box to arrive from the East Coast US to Leyte, Post CV19. Have been very frustrated at the snail's pace using myus.com. I paid for my order to ship out 11 days ago, but it still has not ... Read More
Balikbayan privilege by Whitehall1212
Hi...I arrived in the Philippines in October 2019 with my Philippine wife....we asked for and was granted a balikbayan privilege. I plan to return to the UK before the balikbayan expires on October 21dt this year....my question is. Am I correct in ...
I think if you are here for more than 6 months, you have to have an NBI clearance to leave. Read More
Breakfast in The Philippines by Cherryann01
Good day to all you Ex Pats out there, hope you are all healthy and well. Just a quick question for you all living in the Philippines. What do you guys eat for breakfast. Having visited four times and considering retirement in the Philippines I am ...
Here in Ormoc, generally what was left from the previous meal is what's for breakfast. I generally eat eggs, a couple of slices of bacon, rice, and coffee milk and sugar Wife will make pancakes, but they love cinnamon syrup on pancakes. I ... Read More
Retiring to the Philippines by Sdmiller57
What are your top 5 tips for retiring to the Philippines?
Seems like shit-rigging is par for the course, at least from my observations. Anything that requires more than bare assed minimum effort will be met with irritation and resentment. Firing the grandfather might have been a big nail in the coffin, ... Read More
Videoke Machine Suggestions by moonunit0103
Hi, My wife's LG Dolby 5.1 home theater amplifier has crapped out. She has a DVD videoke that is connected to TV and home theater that seems to be OK for its age. Took receiver to a repair shop and they said it could not be fixed. Should I ...
I got a Megapro Plus AV8000BT 2 channel amp with Bluetooth and 2 wireless speakers and a remote. The owners manual did not have anything on how to use remote or BT, but I got it figured out. The LG speakers do not have much bass, so I probably ... Read More
Retiring to the Philippines by Sdmiller57
What are your top 5 tips for retiring to the Philippines?
Sometimes, you just cannot win. I don't have those issues living in Ormoc City. Maybe my wife does a good job protecting me from that. But, we do not live in her wife's Barangay, either, not does she want to live there. Read More
Retiring to the Philippines by Sdmiller57
What are your top 5 tips for retiring to the Philippines?
If it is your first visit, I would suggest traveling to different cities first to see what you might prefer. I have been here over a year, married 8 months, and I have adjusted to the different pace. It took a while to adjust to seeing slums, ... Read More
What's changing in the Philippines after the COVID-19 crisis by Veedushi
Hello everyone, I hope you're doing well. As the Editorial Team of Expat.com, our aim is to provide you with fresh and up-to-date information about the COVID-19 crisis in your host country. You might be expecting a lot of changes following the ...
My wife, new neighbor, and I got travel passes and health certificates and drove to Tacloban from Ormoc City to go to Bureau of Immigration and we're home before supper. Bureau of Immigration Tacloban accepts walk ins, but only allows 4 expats ... Read More
Went on a Trip from Ormoc to Tacloban Yesterday by moonunit0103
Hi, With my Visa expiring this week, my wife needing to go to Department of Foreign Affairs, and my NBI Police clearance, last week we went to the Barangay Hall and got a transportation pass, then went to the Health Department and got out Health ...
My wife prefers areas in the Visayas other than Tacloban, since the native language in Northern Leyte and Samar is Waray, so to communicate, she has to speak Tagalog. Bisaya is spoken in most of Leyte, Bohol, Cebu, Mindanao, Negros, and Panay ... Read More
Yahoo Reports PI Domestic Flights Halted
https://ph.yahoo.com/news/philippines-reimposes-quarantine-measures-virus-130918045.html Read More
Went on a Trip from Ormoc to Tacloban Yesterday by moonunit0103
Hi, With my Visa expiring this week, my wife needing to go to Department of Foreign Affairs, and my NBI Police clearance, last week we went to the Barangay Hall and got a transportation pass, then went to the Health Department and got out Health ...
BI was an easy in and out, but besides that, I usually stayed at Hotel Oriental, good food, cool show, but any place else in Tacloban, I cannot say. Read More
myus.com Experience by moonunit0103
Hi, I had used myus.com for packages before the lockdown, but it has been bogged down by delays. I ordered items off Amazon June 18, arrived at myus.com June 23, but not catalogued until July 1. I elected to try DHL expedited shipping, supposed ...
The package came today. No additional charges, unlike in the past. Read More
Went on a Trip from Ormoc to Tacloban Yesterday
Hi, With my Visa expiring this week, my wife needing to go to Department of Foreign Affairs, and my NBI Police clearance, last week we went to the Barangay Hall and got a transportation pass, then went to the Health Department and got out Health ... Read More
What's changing in the Philippines after the COVID-19 crisis by Veedushi
Hello everyone, I hope you're doing well. As the Editorial Team of Expat.com, our aim is to provide you with fresh and up-to-date information about the COVID-19 crisis in your host country. You might be expecting a lot of changes following the ...
The word is that tourist Visas will probably not be issued until November or 2021. In Manila, the government just went back to an Enhanced General Quarantine, where only one person may leave the house to get food on certain days. There are still a ... Read More
Videoke Machine Suggestions by moonunit0103
Hi, My wife's LG Dolby 5.1 home theater amplifier has crapped out. She has a DVD videoke that is connected to TV and home theater that seems to be OK for its age. Took receiver to a repair shop and they said it could not be fixed. Should I ...
Some family members sound like cats in heat, but everyone has fun. Read More
Videoke Machine Suggestions by moonunit0103
Hi, My wife's LG Dolby 5.1 home theater amplifier has crapped out. She has a DVD videoke that is connected to TV and home theater that seems to be OK for its age. Took receiver to a repair shop and they said it could not be fixed. Should I ...
I have looked around but could not find a 5.1 Dolby receiver, which has a center speaker, 2 front speakers, 2 rear speakers, and a subwoofer. All I have found are 2 channel amplifiers/mixers. Read More
Videoke Machine Suggestions
Hi, My wife's LG Dolby 5.1 home theater amplifier has crapped out. She has a DVD videoke that is connected to TV and home theater that seems to be OK for its age. Took receiver to a repair shop and they said it could not be fixed. Should I ... Read More
myus.com Experience by moonunit0103
Hi, I had used myus.com for packages before the lockdown, but it has been bogged down by delays. I ordered items off Amazon June 18, arrived at myus.com June 23, but not catalogued until July 1. I elected to try DHL expedited shipping, supposed ...
I got a message from DHL that after 11 days, my customs clearance has been updated. Not sure what that means. Read More
myus.com Experience by moonunit0103
Hi, I had used myus.com for packages before the lockdown, but it has been bogged down by delays. I ordered items off Amazon June 18, arrived at myus.com June 23, but not catalogued until July 1. I elected to try DHL expedited shipping, supposed ...
Got a message that my Customs Status was updated in Cebu, sitting there since July 18. 11 days to clear customs seems pretty long time to me. Expediated Shipping, too. Read More
myus.com Experience by moonunit0103
Hi, I had used myus.com for packages before the lockdown, but it has been bogged down by delays. I ordered items off Amazon June 18, arrived at myus.com June 23, but not catalogued until July 1. I elected to try DHL expedited shipping, supposed ...
I have a couple of cell phone batteries, tee shirts, some cargo shorts, and some vitamins. Not sure what the big deal is. Read More
myus.com Experience
Hi, I had used myus.com for packages before the lockdown, but it has been bogged down by delays. I ordered items off Amazon June 18, arrived at myus.com June 23, but not catalogued until July 1. I elected to try DHL expedited shipping, supposed ... Read More
Filipina gf in Manila wants me to sign birth certificate by Soothesayer
I'm new here and just need some advice. I met a filipina last year I really hit it off with in Manila. I met her on Tinder (yes I know its bad reputation), spent 2 weeks with her and had the best time of my life. Well one thing led to another ...
https://youtu.be/YruykV9pSPA A reason to get DNA testing. Chatting with an expat living with a Filipina, she was chatting a foreigner who flew to see her, and she met with him. Might be a white/Filipino baby, but it might not be yours..... 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 seen some properties listed where the expat owners have decided to sell out and move back, but, at least here in Ormoc, asking prices have not gone flat. Read More
Betrayal in by backyard by manwonder
Gd evening guys; Jus got a "wiff" of somebody cheating on an expat in my area, apparently an elementary school teacher in our area actually saw his pinoy wife wif another expat in the city :( Sad thing is I personally know her husband ...
I would send the guy a message with progress on his house, a summation of her adultery. If he wants more info he can ask. Some expats are too trusting while they are away. Read More
Recommended Pick up truck by Mhammond40
Need to buy a pick up truck and would like recommendations. Diesel or petroleum?
Lucky us we only need to take a 75 minute ride into Ilocos Norte to get to our Nissan dealer. All the dealers are in Ilocos Norte, so it was our best choice, 15 seater van, two years of no problems.Do you have a large family? Was concerned if I ... Read More
Recommended Pick up truck by Mhammond40
Need to buy a pick up truck and would like recommendations. Diesel or petroleum?
Another thought is to make sure there is a dealer of the vehicle reasonably close by, in case service or replacement parts are needed. To get to the dealer for service here in Ormoc, we have to drive 2-1/2 hours each way before CV19. Now, that ... Read More
Filipina gf in Manila wants me to sign birth certificate by Soothesayer
I'm new here and just need some advice. I met a filipina last year I really hit it off with in Manila. I met her on Tinder (yes I know its bad reputation), spent 2 weeks with her and had the best time of my life. Well one thing led to another ...
Just because the woman says the baby is yours does not make it so. Get a DNA test done before signing anything. Met an Expat on a fast ferry to Cebu who told my wife and I his story about how he married a very young Filipina, they had an argument, ... Read More
Recommended Pick up truck by Mhammond40
Need to buy a pick up truck and would like recommendations. Diesel or petroleum?
I drive a 2019 Nissan Navara 4x2 Crewcab automatic turbodiesel. Gets about 22mpg in the city, and about 35mpg on a trip. This is the base version, cloth seats, basic transportation. The truck has not changed since 2005, just updates and trim ... Read More
testing & quarantine for arriving passengers by RainTrek
I am traveling from US to MNL in about 10 days with my balikbayan wife and our 12-year-old daughter. Our destination is Cagayan de Oro (CDO). The Philippine Coast Guard announced June 1 that ALL arriving passengers (OFW and non-OFW) will be given a ...
https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2020/06/24/2023190/chong-huas-covid-19-beds-full https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/321314/cebu-city-covid-count-65-recoveries-60-new-cases-11-deaths They suspended 250,000 quarantine passes in Cebu. ... Read More
In Cebu, BI Suggestions by moonunit0103
Hi, In Cebu, due to inlaws hospitalization. I usually go to Tacloban BI, where there is no waiting, but when I went to the Mandaue BI, it was a zoo, full inside, with 50 waiting to go inside. Is there a time of the day or day of the week that is ...
When I was there back in February, it was a Zoo. Go to the BI over in LapuLapu across the bridge. I was in and out in a half hour. Not sure what is up since then, though.... Read More
Expat Just Bought House, Young Wife Possible Problem by moonunit0103
Hi, An 64 year old expat from Texas has bought a house down the street from me with his 28 year old wife. Since the GCQ has started, she has not allowed him to travel to the house, where things are being readied to move in. She also is not ...
Update:. Neighbor came over yesterday and said his wife had been stealing his money and was loan-sharking to folks. He said they had a row and he got his debit card back. Today, she left from noon to 6pm to "go to the market", which is ... Read More
Expat Just Bought House, Young Wife Possible Problem by moonunit0103
Hi, An 64 year old expat from Texas has bought a house down the street from me with his 28 year old wife. Since the GCQ has started, she has not allowed him to travel to the house, where things are being readied to move in. She also is not ...
Neighbor came by, said wife went to have electric and water bills changed to their name, but it is a Federal Holiday and those offices are closed today....... I think she is probably visiting the BF. Read More
Expat Just Bought House, Young Wife Possible Problem by moonunit0103
Hi, An 64 year old expat from Texas has bought a house down the street from me with his 28 year old wife. Since the GCQ has started, she has not allowed him to travel to the house, where things are being readied to move in. She also is not ...
The family is from the province, living in a Nipa hut with 8 kids growing up. Dirt floor from what I am told. A sister is married and living in Northern AZ. Have chatted with him, nice guy, very happy. My Filipina wife thinks he is a walking ATM ... Read More
Expat Just Bought House, Young Wife Possible Problem by moonunit0103
Hi, An 64 year old expat from Texas has bought a house down the street from me with his 28 year old wife. Since the GCQ has started, she has not allowed him to travel to the house, where things are being readied to move in. She also is not ...
These visitors live in Nipa huts, so the AC isn't a big deal. There was plenty of room elsewhere. He bought her a Mio scooter, and she is always out running errands. I think she has a BF on the side, because he told me he hasn't gotten ... Read More
Expat Just Bought House, Young Wife Possible Problem by moonunit0103
Hi, An 64 year old expat from Texas has bought a house down the street from me with his 28 year old wife. Since the GCQ has started, she has not allowed him to travel to the house, where things are being readied to move in. She also is not ...
Wanted to give an update on my neighbor. His wife finally let him leave the apartment and go to the house. She forbid him from moving there before the Priest blessed the house. Monday they had the blessing, and they had lechon and several other ... Read More
Sell or Hold USD by Munchie
The Peso is gaining ground. Would you sell USD now or hold on for the dollar to bounce back.
When the exchange rate shot up over ₱51, I moved a good amount over to BDO. Was worried that things might get shut down, so I got extra cash to have on hand. Read More
testing & quarantine for arriving passengers by RainTrek
I am traveling from US to MNL in about 10 days with my balikbayan wife and our 12-year-old daughter. Our destination is Cagayan de Oro (CDO). The Philippine Coast Guard announced June 1 that ALL arriving passengers (OFW and non-OFW) will be given a ...
Unless it is absolutely necessary to come to Philippines right now, delay it 2-3 months until things die down some. You may wind up in some pigsty for 14 days in Manila in quarantine, then another 14 days in a pigsty in CDO in quarantine. Ask 10 ... Read More
Lazada Order Arriving Today
The order came today. Ordered May 26, took 9 days. Read More
Lazada Order Arriving Today
Hi, Wanted to let other expats know that Lazada is shipping from Manila to the other islands. I ordered some vitamins last week, supposed to be delivered today in Ormoc City. Not sure when Philippines Postal Service will be back fully ... Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in the Philippines by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts the Philippines, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Isetta was the name of the car. Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in the Philippines by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts the Philippines, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Almost bought one. Loved the dog legged shifter. My 1983 633CSi was Henna Red, which is close to Daytona Orange, and had Racing Dynamics suspension. Fun car. Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in the Philippines by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts the Philippines, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Yes neither do we Singaporeans...we just got to stay +ve / Live within ones means / Take nothing for granted / Plan for the future...Good times don't last forever neither do Bad Times. In Good times I was a Manager both in US / Swiss MNC's ... Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in the Philippines by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts the Philippines, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
With body and, dashcams, and cameras on every smartphone, you would have thought the bad cops would have known better than to act that way. But, there are also numerous cases where White people have also been killed by cops for no reason. Looting, ... Read More
COVID-19 and expatriation in the Philippines by Loïc
Hello everybody, The COVID-19 crisis inevitably impacts the Philippines, between closed airports or periods of containment in some cities or even the entire country . We would like to hear from you during this unusual period, to find out what the ...
Well, here in Ormoc City it is the last day of our lockdown, so tomorrow it will be nice to be able to go out and about without fear. We are fortunate in that the mayor stopped ferry traffic and put police checkpoints at city limits to contain ... Read More
Helpful Tips for Expats Visiting Philippines by moonunit0103
Hi, Before I get started, I know that opinions are like azzholes, everyone has one. That being said, there are a few things I have learned over the past two years since I decided to visit the Philippines. Keep in mind I was looking for a ...
I had a moment of clarity after meeting my now-wife, was how many women did I need. There wasn't pressure from her for me to commit, but things were going well, so I decided to ghost the other women I had chatted with. Being you have a baby, ... Read More