pilotdrh
American expat in the Philippines
Forum posts
119
Contacts
1
About me
American, Married with children
Lives in Lipa City, Calabarzon
Speaks English
Registration: 24 August 2019
Filipino Drivers by arty5987
Why are Filipinos such bad drivers?Is it just ignorance of the rules, or is it something deeper?V VERNON B. SARNEOCTOBER 21, 2017 77,512 VIEWSA A AWhy can't we respect something as simple and universal as the yellow box? ILLUSTRATION BY ...
I can't imagine Filipino youths 16 to 22 doing burnouts or figure eights in their Muscle Cars or drag racing between red lights. Also can't image Filipino youths riding around in a Low Rider with $4,000 wheels. -@Enzyte BobWell, only the ... Read More
Filipino Drivers by arty5987
Why are Filipinos such bad drivers?Is it just ignorance of the rules, or is it something deeper?V VERNON B. SARNEOCTOBER 21, 2017 77,512 VIEWSA A AWhy can't we respect something as simple and universal as the yellow box? ILLUSTRATION BY ...
Back in 05 we were in Taguig and my wife (fiance then) said she wanted to get a taxi and go to Mega Mall. I asked her if she knew how to get there and she said yes. So I said we'll take your bike. It was probably a 150cc scooter. So we headed off ... Read More
13a Visa Process I experienced 2022 Manilla by PNodens
I know there is another post about the process of applying for a 13a visa but I just did this week and since my experience was vastly different I decided to start an updated thread. This will be a bit long.So before going to immigration here is ...
I know there is another post about the process of applying for a 13a visa but I just did this week and since my experience was vastly different I decided to start an updated thread. This will be a bit long.So before going to immigration here is ... Read More
Siargao Island by Leaving Los Angeles
looking into early retiring there but not finding much info here. single older female who's ready to leave the US rat race (and never really had my heart in it anyway, unlike my other siblings), no kids (and planning to stay that way), no ...
If you're 50 you can may be able to get a $1,500 deposit SRRV visa as a former Philippines citizen. If you're near 50 you can just wait, your Balikbayan visa will be good for a year. You can also own a certain amount of land as a former. But If you ... Read More
Filipino Drivers by arty5987
Why are Filipinos such bad drivers?Is it just ignorance of the rules, or is it something deeper?V VERNON B. SARNEOCTOBER 21, 2017 77,512 VIEWSA A AWhy can't we respect something as simple and universal as the yellow box? ILLUSTRATION BY ...
I've been driving here almost daily for the past 2 years and it isn't bad where I live. One thing I've learned is you have to forget how it is in your home country and learn how to safely drive here. If an oncoming vehicle sees that you have room to ... Read More
Police Clearance from home country by Guzik
I will be moving to the Philippines with my wife in October. At that time, I will be applying for a 13A visa. My question is, if I get the police clearance before I arrive, do I need to get it notarized or authenticated before I arrive in the ...
You should get your police clearance and DD214 through the State Dept office, $20 for each I think. PRA has been taking the SS and DD214 affidavit notarized by the embassy but who knows when or if that will change. I did the FBI records check online ... Read More
Police Clearance from home country by Guzik
I will be moving to the Philippines with my wife in October. At that time, I will be applying for a 13A visa. My question is, if I get the police clearance before I arrive, do I need to get it notarized or authenticated before I arrive in the ...
@Guzik I did not know that was still in effect. I applied for a 13A in April of 2021 in the US. The PH embassy called me on a friday and said they had my application and documents, everything looked good. Then on Monday they called back and said ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@pilotdrh Very good stuff, thanks. It does say police clearance is required. How did you get yours? -@Moon DogWhat I would do is ask MR about the interpol clearance. If that's a no go then you can do it through the FBI online. The only issues with ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@Moon Dog The embassy will notarize your affidavit but it is not an affidavit if undertaking. It's like this.On this ____ day of ____________, _____ I, __________________, swear and attest that the attached document is a true, correct, and unaltered ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@pilotdrh I entered my middle name when I created the account with the NBI.On the to do list Mary Rose sent me there is nothing about the FBI or Interpol clearance. Were you in the Philippines less than 6 months when you did your SRRV? -@Moon DogI ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@Moon Dog The embassy will notarize your affidavit but it is not an affidavit if undertaking. It's like this.On this ____ day of ____________, _____ I, __________________, swear and attest that the attached document is a true, ... Read More
Surprise Package by Moon Dog
My Lenovo dash cam arrived today. I ordered it from a LazMall seller with a lot of good reviews but when I opened the box there was no dash cam, only a piece of wood with cardboard taped to it. A wooden dash cam, what a surprise! After 866 Lazada ...
@Moon Dog The duty varies and then they tack on the 12% VAT. The strange thing is they include shipping and insurance in the duty and tax. Just keep your order under the Php 10k limit and you're good. I bought my kids ASUS BR1100 student laptops on ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
You can't do your application at the Cebu or Davao office? When you submit your application you have to pay the fee. In the Manila office they will take pesos (they go down to the lobby to the BDO there and convert them, or I guess you could stop ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@Enzyte Bob Nope.Each person engaged in a trade or business who, in the course of that trade or business, receives more than $10,000 in cash in one transaction or in two or more related transactions, must file this form. Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
This was in Florida before I moved to the PI. I had moved to Florida from Georgia about 9 months before I retired and moved to the PI. Very few people in GA or FL were weati g maskis in 2021. And across the street was from the apartment I was living ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@Lotus Eater This was inside with a cashier, not an ATM. Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
Banks are so different here. Can you imagine doing this (trying) here. I went across the street to a bank I did not bank at and did not have an account at. I said I want to withdraw $150,000, all 100 hundred dollar bills. I stuck my banks debit card ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
Wow. I did mine with BDO. The day I went to PRA and paid my application fee they gave me the letter to open an account. I walked to BDO, about 3 blocks away. Gave them my letter and they opened the account. I did the wire transfer when I got home. ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
Her old man (biker days, what can I say) said she is on vacation in Europe. If you're still good on your visa (BB visa I imagine) then you can just wait if you want. If you have less than 3 months left then you may want to finish it yourself (it's ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
Notice from the PRA. Effective June 1 the SRRV ID card renewal will be for 2 years. Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@bigstar1208 Checkout The Philippine Info Channel on youtube, Steve talks about insurance coverage. Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@bigstar1208 Nothing yet. Wife and kids have Philhealth. I need to sign up. Luckily, I'm still in good health. I get VA disability for my bad...what?....hearing and I've worn glasses since I was a kid. But I don't take any medications. So not bad ... Read More
Filipina asking by Gezzar
Am I meeting/appealing to the wrong Filipinas? They seem to have their mind set on me buying them a motorcycle or car or house or jewelery.
We're about 1 -1.5 hrs away. My wife loves to have a party around New Years and invites family members. Lot's of games with money prizes. She did this before we ever met also. She'll spend about 10k pesos or so. Everyone has a good time including ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@pilotdrhI have my original DD214 in excellent condition signed by someone.No need for a copy from the Archives correct?Should it be apostilled here or notarized there in the Philippines at the US Embassy?What's the difference.?Thanks again for your ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@Moon Dog Yes, you need an appt which you have to make online. Citizen services. Probably 3 to 4 weeks in advance. And it was a $50 per document notary fee, which can be paid by a credit card.https://ph.usembassy.gov/services/notarials/or the ... Read More
Filipina asking by Gezzar
Am I meeting/appealing to the wrong Filipinas? They seem to have their mind set on me buying them a motorcycle or car or house or jewelery.
I've heard people using the term "ATM". Maybe it's just because I'm old and have been coming to the PI since the mid 80's but the term that used to be used was "Bank of America" instead. Of course, it can be Bank of England, Bank of ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@Moon Dog The affidavit is notarized at the PRA and gives you a year to get the document. Instead of that just get your affidavit for your DD214 and SS Benefits letter notarized at the embassy and give those to the PRA. Then you won't need anything ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@bigstar1208 National Archives took 6 months to supply my DD214. The US State Dept office that does the apostiles would not accept it because it wasn't signed. I called the National Archives and they said they do not sign, all they do is stamp the ... Read More
Health Insurance and your SS Medicare... to drop or not to drop? by tpiro
This may be an old subject.. but I couldn't find the right answer and perhaps someone has experience in this. The question is .. to drop my medicare deduction from SS or not to drop it. Ok.. so here it goes.. I am planning on retiring in ...
Introductory price, regular is 428000. I like the looks. I was surprised at how bad the websites are here, searches are horrible. And most are very slow. Shopee has a much better search than Lazada though. Read More
Health Insurance and your SS Medicare... to drop or not to drop? by tpiro
This may be an old subject.. but I couldn't find the right answer and perhaps someone has experience in this. The question is .. to drop my medicare deduction from SS or not to drop it. Ok.. so here it goes.. I am planning on retiring in ...
If you right click on the bobber700 with the image icon you can open the image in a new tab. Tks for the info. Read More
Health Insurance and your SS Medicare... to drop or not to drop? by tpiro
This may be an old subject.. but I couldn't find the right answer and perhaps someone has experience in this. The question is .. to drop my medicare deduction from SS or not to drop it. Ok.. so here it goes.. I am planning on retiring in ...
That is a nice looking bike. I'd keep it. I'm also considering a Bristol Bobber 700. I should figure out how to post pictures. Read More
Health Insurance and your SS Medicare... to drop or not to drop? by tpiro
This may be an old subject.. but I couldn't find the right answer and perhaps someone has experience in this. The question is .. to drop my medicare deduction from SS or not to drop it. Ok.. so here it goes.. I am planning on retiring in ...
@bigpearlThanks Steve. Maybe it's time for me to start slowing things down a little.I would like to advise anyone interested in an ebike to avoid this style or you will be using your health insurance. It definitely has some design flaws. On the plus ... Read More
Is there a set time between leaving and coming back? by kenw8213
If you have a tourist visa, and you are required to leave after 3 years but you want to come back, and you have no legal issues that would prevent that..is there a set length of time you must leave and stay gone BEFORE your allowed back? So far, ...
SRRV...no ACR required. Read More
Which Visa ??? by Dave & Ruby
Hey Fellow Expats, just trying to get all my ducks in a row so to speak, should I be applying for a 13a visa or a special resident visa for when my wife and I move permanently to the Philippines ??? Thank you
I think it took a couple of days for the PRA to get the deposit confirmation. I did mine Feb last year and it took about 5 - 6 weeks to get the card. Read More
Which Visa ??? by Dave & Ruby
Hey Fellow Expats, just trying to get all my ducks in a row so to speak, should I be applying for a 13a visa or a special resident visa for when my wife and I move permanently to the Philippines ??? Thank you
@tundabita Have your DD214 and your proof of pension apostilled in the US if possible. Contact the PRA for details. Here is my to do list for the SRRV Expanded Courtesy Visa. Since I can't have my documents apostilled in the Philippines I have to do ... Read More
China creates seven minutes of sunshine by PalawOne
`https://eurasiantimes.com/chinas-artificial-sun-breaks-its-own-record-to-maintain/China’s “artificial sun” broke records as it generated extremely hot plasma for seven minutes on the night of April 12. The artificial sun project ...
@danfinn I think Helios has the right idea. Small reactors, Pulsed fusion. Direct electricity. And they kind of follow the SpaceX model, build it and test often. They're already building the 7th version. The plan is to be able to build them ... Read More
Thinking about moving to the philippines. by nonngratum
Can anyone give me some advice on moving to the Philippines.thank you.
@Enzyte Bob Brandon might be able to provide some guidance. Read More
China creates seven minutes of sunshine by PalawOne
`https://eurasiantimes.com/chinas-artificial-sun-breaks-its-own-record-to-maintain/China’s “artificial sun” broke records as it generated extremely hot plasma for seven minutes on the night of April 12. The artificial sun project ...
Fusion to Electricty without steam.https://www.electricfuture.com/nuclear-fusion-real-world-electricity-helion-energy/ Read More
Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) by picomanning
Can anyone provide tips or comments about obtaining the SRRV(visa)? Recommend a consultant or hand holding service to obtain, and etc?
@Moon Dog You need an NBI clearance since you've been here more than 30 days. You also need a police clearance from the US, I did the FBI one. I've heard you may be able to get an interpol clearance though. All of these can be done within a year of ... Read More
Tankless or tank water heater? by Filamretire
Trying to decide a hot water system on a new home build. I see many homes have tankless point of use heaters, but you would need one for every hot water faucet, right? There are water boiler tanks electric and gas for whole house systems, which are ...
@Enzyte Bob Even my 10 year old twins prefer using the tall toilet in the master CR. Of course they are taller than their mother who is 5'4". Read More
US Global Mail via FedEX by Enzyte Bob
I'm using US Global Mail for my US based address and from time to time having my mail forwarded when it builds up.After four plus years may mail has dwindled down, mostly mail for Charge Cards updates. Recently two CC were updated so I had to ...
I did use USPS to send my mail from USGM once, worked fine. I think it was maybe 2 weeks to get it. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@johntatafischer I agree. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@Moon Dog The one I referenced is in Prince Georges county Maryland. As I recall it had 4 Waukesha gens, 1 was dual fuel. That one would start on Propane and its output was used to start the compressors. Then the other gens would start. Then the ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@danfinn In the battery settings you enter the battery rating, a discharge rate and a charge rate. In my case for each of my 2 300 AH batteries the recommended charge/discharge is 120 amps per battery, so 240 amps. The Deye 16kW has a max ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl My system is big enough but I found an issue with the inverter firmware. Apparently the latest version of the firmware hasn't been setup for the 16kW yet. The max solar power I can set is 18,000 watts, spec is 20,800 watts. I also found ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
Electric bill today. 112 kWH @ 1,738.28 = Php 15.52 per kWH. About 10% of the utility usage before I put my solar system in. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@Enzyte Bob I don't smoke since I retired. I generally have a couple of beers a year. Now sex...yes, sex is expensive. Any of you that are married understand that. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl We have to learn patience because getting mad doesn't do anything good. Evidently we also have to absorb a little of the "bahala na" to survive. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl Ineptitude....It's as if someone told them how to do it a few years ago and this was their first time actually doing it. Watching, and paying attention, to a few you tube videos would improve the quality. Measuring with a string would ... 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 ...
My transfers from USAA using Wise to BDO generally take less than 30 minutes. Transfers to GCash usually less than 10 minutes. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl I understand that getting net metering to sell back here varies a lot in both the time for approval and the cost. I've seen 3 months to 2 years and 50k to 100k. Plus the credit is very low. Most of chatter I see from Filipinos, especially ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl I don't recall saying anything about Amazon. My bill ran about 37 kWH per day (1100 a month). 4 adults, 2 10 year olds. My In-Laws just use a fan in their room. Ceiling fans upstairs are inverter powered and draw a max of 35 watts on the ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl Don't size the system just based on your load, you'll need extra for battery charging. And don't forget that you probably won't be getting the rated output out of your panels, especially if they are spread out on the roof. My batteries are ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@Moon Dog They offered a typing/short hand course in High School. For some reason I wanted to learn short hand. After the class started they dropped the short hand, I was irked. All manual typewriters (1973), I was in the 10th grade. Well who knew ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
I spent almost USD $22k for my system, 21,000 watts in PV panels, 16 kW Hybrid inverter and 2 15 kWH batteries. I designed the system, bought everything myself, and installed it. The system supports my entire house and acts as a UPS. My PV panels ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl Steve, I agree that less pollution is preferred and desirable. I would say that everyone would agree with that, until I saw the recent polls of around 39% saying Biden is doing a good job, so I would amend it to a lot of people would ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@danfinn Exactly why I put my 21 kWp system in, future billing and reliability. Our service is fairly reliable but today it went out 0500 to 0700, came back for about 10 minutes and went out again for 20. Then it went out again about 5 hrs later (a ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
My October bill is Php 14151.51, 913 kWH = 15.5 pesos per kWH. My solar system has been online about a week. My usage in Aug, 1114 kWH, Sep, 1070...may the downward trend continue. I have it set to run on battery when solar isn't providing power. So ... Read More
Amazon Now Has Free Shipping To The Philippines by Enzyte Bob
I received this email today. Orders over $49 may qualify for free shipping. Things you must do when ordering.(1) Set delivery address to Philippines.(2) Qualified items by Amazon will display "Free Shipping To Philippines" by item price.(3) ...
I usually make sure I'm under 10k pesos so I don't get charged duties. Free shipping will make that easier. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl I think the battery life will, hopefully, be much longer than that. The LiFePo batteries for new cells are generally rated for 6k cycles with a DoD of 80%. And even past that it's not like they're dead then. I used to work on UPS systems ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
Steve,Bluesun Solar Panels (30) $6,278.00 Freight Forwarder (FF) China to Manila $760.00, any taxes and customs included. Bluesun Quad Ultra BSM700PMB6-70SDC 700 Watt Shingled Bifacial ModuleUISolar ST3H Ground Mount $1,662.51 FF $506.00 Excellent ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@TimoTraveling Not far from you, over in Lipa. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl I ordered mine via the manufacturer through Alibaba. My ground mount was direct to the manufacturer and my battereries were with the manufacturer via ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl My system works out to USD $0.85 per PV watt for materials, $1.03 including shipping.https://app.photobucket.com/u/pilotdrh/p/c7260a8d-ef46-4d28-ba94-8d9155eb8bd2 Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@bigpearl My system is approx Php 1.2 million. It seems that many people undersize their systems. They plan on actually harvesting the rated load, which is infrequent. They also do not include capacity for charging their battery. And from what I ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
My latest bill yesterday from Meralco.Usage 912 KWHBill P10,101Cost per KWH P11.8 -@Enzyte BobWow, mine was 13.81 pesos per kWH. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@Timo62 Ours has been running about 15k a month. We have twins, boy and a girl, 10. Microwave, coffee maker, kettle, electric oven, washing machine, heatpump dryer. 7 split inverter aircons ( 1 is 1.5 hp, the rest 1 hp) 3 floor standing 3 TR ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@Wellsfry Once I finally decided I wanted to put one in I gave myself an education. Then I requested quotes from 3 different installers and told them what I wanted. They all come back with boilerplate quotes. So I designed my own system, ordered ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
My last bill (Sep) was 1070 kWH for 14,774.18 pesos. I should b e finished with my new solar power system this week so after the Oct bill I should be wayyyyyy down. 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 ...
@emvaningen I think you know her. 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 ...
@Lenny Gemar I actually applied for a 13A in the US last year, same as you I wanted to forego the probationary one. I had everything done, the PI embassy called on a Friday and said they'd looked through the package and everything looked fine. Then ... Read More
Mail Forwarding Service from USA by tpiro
I am sure this Mail Forwarding Service from USA subject has been hit on many times but can't find a good answer.. so my question is who out there in Expat land has a Mail Forwarding Service from USA that is affordable and reliable ...
I use US Global Mail. I have the + Plan. You have to pay attention to any mail accumulation as you will be charged after a time period depending on your plan. I usually pick the service to have my mail shipped to me depending on what is in the mail. ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
Ours is actually going down by 0.2482. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@Cherryann01 From what I understand the poorer locals have a fan, a few lights and maybe a cell phone charger. Not much of an electric bill and not much money to pay one anyway. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
Well my latest Meralco Sept 2022 electric bill.P10,839.99 ($184.51 US)891 kphCost: P11.15 kph (20.7 cents US)Using today's rate $1 equals P58.75 -@Enzyte BobIsn't it 12.17? Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
I'm still waiting for my components to arrive. But I'll definitely have it setup to charge the batteries before exporting. And we're on Batelec 2 here in Batangas. And the locals don't show them any respect on their FB page. Not that I've seen they ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
To bad. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
Did you use Moon Dog as your handle? Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@pilotdrh Generally, it has been taking 6 months for the electric coops to approve the grid ties. You may wish to ask the solar contractor about that because I think their ads do not mention that and some owners are miffed when they find they ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
My last bill from July was 14.07 per kWH (1089 kWH) P15,322. So more than last month while using 31 kWH less. I have all of the big stuff for my solar system ordered...hoping to get rid of the electric bill. Read More
Buying Food by whackerdog123
Ok, here's my rant... There are probably 10 Million or Pigs at any given time in the Philippines...why can't you buy fresh ham? I mean really! Do any Filipino's like "fresh" ham? You can buy frozen..no problem, sliced anyway, but ...
@Enzyte Bob I checked out the turkey at S&R (Lipa City) a few minutes ago. Honeysuckle White is P340 a kilo, P2505 for the one I looked at. They also have butterball, Premium All Natural, P299, P1544 for the slightly over 5 kilo I looked at. Read More
Buying Food by whackerdog123
Ok, here's my rant... There are probably 10 Million or Pigs at any given time in the Philippines...why can't you buy fresh ham? I mean really! Do any Filipino's like "fresh" ham? You can buy frozen..no problem, sliced anyway, but ...
@whackerdog123 I recall seeing frozen Turkeys in supermarket at Gaisano Country Mall in Cebu City/Banilad. I didn't check the price. I can usually find Celery for about 29 pesos for a pack. Never really looked for Cilantro. For Ham, try Whole ... Read More
Old Dog New Tricks - Update on John (& his Mrs) by Lotus Eater
Latest flash update (on the previous update ) Ok we finally get to see and hear John's other half Diana.. youtube.com/watch?v=zCgSmcEo38w
I didn't know the minor child is eligible for benefits so I learned something that may benefit me. My wife and I are adopting a 1 year old child but the SS website states that the child must have a SS number to be eligible for benefits. Would I be ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
I have a 5 bedroom, 5 1/2 bath, plus maids room and bath. It's about 350 sqm using US sizing and 438 sqm measured thee filipino way. My 2 kids rooms upstairs each have a 1.5 HP split inverter AC. They turned 10 about 3 months ago but still sleep ... Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
@pilotdrh You have very cheap rates compared to mine. I use 1,000 kwhs and pay P19,000 per month. - @Moon DogI won't complain about mine then. Read More
Wise Exchange Rate Today June 16, 2022 by Enzyte Bob
Today I transferred money from the US. Wise's exchange rate was P53.36 per US dollar. (June 16, 2022)coach with that exchange rate (P317) you can buy 1lb of Swedish Meatballs at Ikea. in fact ...
@lcdrski I heard it's probably going to go down a little with the credit for the over charges that were based on the Alzheimer pill. Read More
What is your Electric Bill like ? by frankanderson
Just wondering, I am starting to suspect Condo's pay a lot more for electricity than a house. My missus inform me that its possible that condo tenants pay commercial prices, similar to stores and businesses. If that's right, that's ...
I have a 5 bedroom, 5 1/2 bath, plus maids room and bath. It's about 350 sqm using US sizing and 438 sqm measured thee filipino way. My 2 kids rooms upstairs each have a 1.5 HP split inverter AC. They turned 10 about 3 months ago but still sleep ... Read More
More Inflation by Enzyte Bob
Yesterday I had mail forwarded by US Global Mail, a few letters but one with a charge card. The cost via FedEX was $76.62 USD.Now in August 2021 I had Global Mail forward about the same amount of mail. Cost $51.56 USD. Almost a 50% increase.Of no ...
@Enzyte Bob Yes, I was having my mail sent to me, nothing important in it though. I understand that sometimes packages can be lost but the shipping company being completely unresponsive to several queries is terrible. I had another shipment of mail ... Read More
More Inflation by Enzyte Bob
Yesterday I had mail forwarded by US Global Mail, a few letters but one with a charge card. The cost via FedEX was $76.62 USD.Now in August 2021 I had Global Mail forward about the same amount of mail. Cost $51.56 USD. Almost a 50% increase.Of no ...
@Enzyte Bob They also use Aramex. I had a shipment using them, took 3 months! Absolutely no replies from them regarding the status. Finally delivered to my door one day. Amazon uses them also and I've had a couple of deliveries without any ... Read More
SRRV Expanded Courtesy Visa by DukeStamina
I have a question. I served in the U.S. military for 6 years. I have an honorable discharge and a DD-214; but I am not considered retired military. However, I am now retired from working and I am collecting Social Security. The amount far exceeds ...
@Munchie I just saw your message about the SS benefits letter. I also contacted the Manila FBU about getting a signed letter, useless. I've also contacted my local SS office back in the states and I've also sent emails to the service ... Read More
Converting foreign DL to Philippines DL by onefogarty
Hello! 😊Do foreigners need to go to a specific LTO office, for example, the main LTO branch in Manila, or can they simply visit an LTO that is close to where they live to apply for their Philippines DL?
@danfinn: I was able to renew my NC DL online and they sent it to my son's address. ************************************************My problem was a little involved, at my age I required a vision test and I needed a Nevada address. I probably could ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
@emvaningen I assuming social security counts as a part of one's pension?My main interest is the SRRV Courtesy visa and if I'm eligible as a veteran, but not retired military. - @Moon DogI did the expanded courtesy SRRV visa, VET with 13.5 ... Read More
SRRV Expanded Courtesy Visa by DukeStamina
I have a question. I served in the U.S. military for 6 years. I have an honorable discharge and a DD-214; but I am not considered retired military. However, I am now retired from working and I am collecting Social Security. The amount far exceeds ...
I did an expanded courtesy SRRV. I am a vet, USAF, not retired from the military. I came to the PI last June and applied for the SRRV on Feb 22 of this year. I had to get an NBI clearance and the medical here. MR informed me the SRRV was approved at ... Read More
Converting foreign DL to Philippines DL by onefogarty
Hello! 😊Do foreigners need to go to a specific LTO office, for example, the main LTO branch in Manila, or can they simply visit an LTO that is close to where they live to apply for their Philippines DL?
PRA told me that it had to be done in Quezon City. I couldn't find anything that actually says that but I decided to go to QC with the PRA rep. I live in Lipa, Batangas. From the time of arrival to get the medical and the license was 70 minutes. ... 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 Use Wise. Transfer to BDO and GCash. Transfer to GCash for a few hundred dollars usually takes a few minutes. Bank transfer generally within 2 hours, although sometimes it takes 2 or 3 days. Read More
SRRV Feb 19 2022 by lcdrski
Hi who has just done the SRRV tango with the PRA? How long did you have to stay in Makati to set up Bank Account, Applications, Pay the fee and the yearly fee before you could move out and finish up somewhere else. I fly out of LAX on the 22 of ...
I just applied for my SRRV also. Did they tell you how long it would take to process and when they would have your passport ready?I did my application on Feb 22. I did my physical on Mar 1. I received a copy of my passport page with a stamp on the ... Read More
SRRV Feb 19 2022 by lcdrski
Hi who has just done the SRRV tango with the PRA? How long did you have to stay in Makati to set up Bank Account, Applications, Pay the fee and the yearly fee before you could move out and finish up somewhere else. I fly out of LAX on the 22 of ...
NBI did the scan only for Filipinos, foreigners was the scan and manual. Read More
SRRV Feb 19 2022 by lcdrski
Hi who has just done the SRRV tango with the PRA? How long did you have to stay in Makati to set up Bank Account, Applications, Pay the fee and the yearly fee before you could move out and finish up somewhere else. I fly out of LAX on the 22 of ...
I'm in the process now. Mine is a little different since I've been in the PI on a balikbayan visa for about 8 months. Since I had been in the PI past 30 days (I think that is the limit) I went to the main NBI clearance office in Manila ( My ... Read More
Tax Time For U.S. Expats in the Philippines by DukeStamina
Many questions on this for me. My big question is how do you file your tax returns? Do you claim a state as a U.S. residence? Or is the address you use a Philippine address? Keeping a U.S. address will subject you to taxes at the state level also. ...
All pretty quick this year, efiled with Turbotax last Monday and received my direct deposit on Friday of the same week. Read More
SRRV Expanded Courtesy Visa by DukeStamina
I have a question. I served in the U.S. military for 6 years. I have an honorable discharge and a DD-214; but I am not considered retired military. However, I am now retired from working and I am collecting Social Security. The amount far exceeds ...
If the current plans stand then you can come into the PI as a tourist starting on the 10th. Then you can have your marketer work on your SRRV. Remember not to start the process directly with the PRA as then you have to pay a marketer instead of the ... Read More