blacksheepjuno
American expat in the Philippines
Forum posts
116
Contacts
2
About me
American
Lives in Dasmarinas
Registration: 30 March 2021
USA SS Proof of life by vehicross100
Seen this topic before but couldn’t locate it, so inquiring if anyone has any experience in receiving this notice. I am 1 month out from my first year on SS and just wondering what to look for when it’s time for this form to be sent to ...
@vehicross100 The “proof of life” form is incredibly important for us American expats. In the Philippines, it’s sent out every two years. (Mine is on the even numbered years). Yes, it’s sent through the Philippine postal ... Read More
Life in Ilocos Norte: Challenges with Immigration by Joe Vanderheiden
Hello my name is Joe I have been living in the Philippines for 9 years now up in Ilocos Norte we have a small group of friends that we all hang out and exchange stories I am just getting frustrated with the Immigration sometimes as we can only renew ...
I quit paying the express lane fees over two years ago. I let them have my passport for three working days, and pick it up. Sure, it’s a second trip, but picking it up has only taken at most, 15 minutes, and treat myself to coffee. I do it at ... Read More
New Drivers License for Foreigner by inqgoh
Hi,What should be the requirements to apply for a new drivers license in the Philippines..if my previous license in EU was lost.Do I have to be a residence or apply first for particular visa?thanks,
Sigh. Once again, an interesting thread on life in the philippines gets hijacked. That’s why this forum loses good people. Read More
Should I worry about the 6 months exit clearance? by rlfletcher60
Is it better to leave in 5 months and come back so that I won't need to do the exit clearance? Can someone explain how it works?
@Moon DogThere is a counter right at the airport. They will gladly direct you to it, lol. Don’t know if there’s any place else to pay it in advance, if you were so inclined. Read More
Should I worry about the 6 months exit clearance? by rlfletcher60
Is it better to leave in 5 months and come back so that I won't need to do the exit clearance? Can someone explain how it works?
@Moon DogThats the travel tax at the airport. As the pandemic was ending, I was heading to Singapore to restart my visa. I went directly to the Cebu pacific counter to check in for my flight, she checked me in, had my boarding pass ready to hand ... Read More
Should I worry about the 6 months exit clearance? by rlfletcher60
Is it better to leave in 5 months and come back so that I won't need to do the exit clearance? Can someone explain how it works?
Sorry, hit the button twice lol Read More
Rentals - Lamudi, or....? by GuestPoster5500987
I'm still in the US and only know of Lamudi for rental browsing. A couple that topped Google searches seemed to only show a couple things over and over again. Are their any good, updated sites anyone can recommend?
I’m in agreement with Steve. I have never found a good app or company here that has a comprehensive rental list. Go to Facebook and do a search, such as property for rent in “blank” replacing the blank with the area you might be ... Read More
Good place for a single, retired expat to land by GuestPoster5500987
Plan to move to Philippines in 2025. I should have at least ₱180,000 ($3,200 USD) per month to live on. In addition, I'll have over 300,000 USD in retirement accounts. I prefer living in a larger place (2 bedrooms is preferred so I have a ...
Dude, your income and lifestyle choices sound perfect for Alabang, just outside the metro area. Upscale condos with swimming pools, about a twenty to forty minute skyway ride to Makati, Bonafacio, or Pasay nightlife, two major shopping malls in ... Read More
An Independent Mindanao? by danfinn
DAVAO CITY, Philippines – While opposing the people’s initiative for charter change which he believes is orchestrated by the Marcos administration, former President Rodrigo Duterte says he is pushing the idea to secede Mindanao. He bared ...
As far as Mindanao seceding from the Philippines, I doubt that will happen, because of the Muslim majority eastern half of the island. They would suddenly have a much larger voice in the politics of the island if it became its own ... Read More
Where can I watch sport live match? by ImVictor HI
I want to know where can I watch NBA, PBA..... sport live match.Is there any website or app that I can watch it for free.
for about 499 pesos per Month, you can watch all the nba games live or anytime after. just download the nba app. For the PBA, you can watch it on TV 5 Read More
Cost of living in the Philippines in 2024 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As every year, we invite you to share your experience regarding the cost of living in the Philippines, and if possible, in the specific region or city where you live. This will help members who are planning to relocate in the ...
@CherylHi. I live in a gated subdivision in Dasmarinas, Cavite.Here is my average monthly expenses 2024. All in pesos.Rent - 6000. 2 bdr. house, sweetheart deal through a relative.Govt. - 1600 including visas, acrI, car ... Read More
Bankruptcy in U.S when living in the Philippines by Dusty Johnson
How can you declare bankruptcy in the U.S if your living in the Philippines and can't make an in person appearance ? On small amount can you just walk away ?
https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/can-a-debt-collector-take-my-social-security-or-va-benefits-en-1157/#:~:text=Social%20Security%20and%20Social%20Security,for%20child%20or%20spousal%20support.Here it is, Bhavna Read More
Bankruptcy in U.S when living in the Philippines by Dusty Johnson
How can you declare bankruptcy in the U.S if your living in the Philippines and can't make an in person appearance ? On small amount can you just walk away ?
All the information I provided was fromconsumerfinance.gov Read More
Bankruptcy in U.S when living in the Philippines by Dusty Johnson
How can you declare bankruptcy in the U.S if your living in the Philippines and can't make an in person appearance ? On small amount can you just walk away ?
@danfinn100% agree. Hwydaddy joined the forum way back in Dec., 2023, and already wants to be a bully. It will be nice when he disappears, or gets into it with Coach53, lol Read More
Bankruptcy in U.S when living in the Philippines by Dusty Johnson
How can you declare bankruptcy in the U.S if your living in the Philippines and can't make an in person appearance ? On small amount can you just walk away ?
From the consumer protection financial bureau:Generally no, debt collectors aren’t allowed to take money you receive from Social Security or VA directly from your bank account or prepaid card. Before that is possible, they have to take legal ... Read More
Bankruptcy in U.S when living in the Philippines by Dusty Johnson
How can you declare bankruptcy in the U.S if your living in the Philippines and can't make an in person appearance ? On small amount can you just walk away ?
@blacksheepjuno abousaly Social Security regardless of the type can be legally garnish by any local, state or federal court. The only pension that can not be garnish is a VA disability, that's it all other pensions can be garnish regardless ... Read More
Bankruptcy in U.S when living in the Philippines by Dusty Johnson
How can you declare bankruptcy in the U.S if your living in the Philippines and can't make an in person appearance ? On small amount can you just walk away ?
Social Security and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can sometimes be garnished to pay money you owe to the government, such as back taxes or federal student loans, and money you owe for child or spousal support.Aug 28, 2023This is the ... Read More
Bankruptcy in U.S when living in the Philippines by Dusty Johnson
How can you declare bankruptcy in the U.S if your living in the Philippines and can't make an in person appearance ? On small amount can you just walk away ?
@Dusty JohnsonDusty, I sent you a private message in your expat mailbox. Be careful with taking advice on an open forum, you are going to get a lot of stuff people read somewhere, read my message, then check with an attorney for confirmation. Read More
First visit to the Philippines by Hgilliam7194
I am wanting to visit the area. i do not know anyone there. I have never been to the Philippines. Is there an expat group or individual that could show me around and introduce me to other expats? I would like to know that someone could meet me at ...
@Hgilliam7194hi, Gilliam. I’m also an American, living here five years now. So, you want to do an exploratory trip here to see if it’s to your liking. I did the same thing back in 2014. Some suggestions for you. I agree with some ... Read More
Electric cars (EV) Pros and Cons? by bigpearl
Throwing it out there guys/ladies.Has any one considered going full EV or Hybrid? I have for a long time but find the cost difficult to swallow versus reducing Co2 emissions given we only drive 5 to 6,000 kilometers a year, even if it was 10K is ...
Both boracay and intermuros are only accessable to electric jeepneys. I expect anyone thats gone to the main office BI should have seen them. In Boracay, it seems to work exceptionally well. I’ve been thinking of buying an electric trike to ... Read More
Afterschool care of tweens when parents are both working by fantagrape
Hi. My family may be moving to Manila (BCG or Makati).We want to send our kids (tweens aged 12 and 10) to an international school nearby.Do people usually hire nannies for when the kids are home after school if both parents are working?Also, is it ...
Just a quick add, you can take the skyway from Pasay to makati as well. it doesn’t extend to BGC/Taguig. From Makati to BGC there are only two routes, because the edsa is between them. The shortest way is sometimes heavy traffic during ... Read More
Afterschool care of tweens when parents are both working by fantagrape
Hi. My family may be moving to Manila (BCG or Makati).We want to send our kids (tweens aged 12 and 10) to an international school nearby.Do people usually hire nannies for when the kids are home after school if both parents are working?Also, is it ...
Hi, fantagrape. I lived in makati for a year (2014/2015). I still live in the philippines. If you want to travel from makati to paranaque, the major route is the EDSA. This route is one of the worst traffic nightmares in the ... Read More
Why I Picked the Philippines by mugteck
When I was a kid my dad would tell me stories of his life in the US Army and his adventures in the Philippines and Japan. In addition he encouraged me to read history and watch a couple of John Wayne movies, They Were Expendable and ...
I first came to the Philippines in 1978. I was on a rapid deployment force with the marines. subic bay was our first stop. It was supposed to be for a week, but Carter and Congress couldn’t get together on the budget, and we ... Read More
Mistakes expats make in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Did you make any mistakes when you first moved to Philippines? What were they? How did you address your mistakes? Did you learn anything from them? With hindsight, what would you do differently? Are there any tips you ...
Number one, Uber hasn’t operated here for years, so how are you getting cheated by it, tammas? I came here for good in 2019. just in time for a volcano and a pandemic, lol. Mistakes I made:Moved to a rural town in Cavite. Life was ... Read More
Direct deposit to the Philippines from US by whackerdog123
I know that this is possible now, but I have a few questions. My wife went to her bank here in Cebu and asked about this. The bank (metro bank) told her that she wouldn't be allowed on my bank account since it's a pension account, WTF!. How is ...
@whackerdog123You can send the money via a wire transfer service like Western Union, Xoom, or Wise, pay one fee for the entire transaction. For example, the fee to send between $1500 to $1995 via WU is $14.99. I can pi it up in ... Read More
SRRV Payments by elnidophill
did you already pay All money, who has experience???
Moondog, thank you for your comprehensive posting on the path you took for your SRRV. it’s very informative and helpful. You’re an excellent gentleman, and a boone to this forum. Read More
How to apply SSN living in Philippines by mcreybarraquias8
I am a son of wwII veterans we don't have any numbers from ssa during his life time?How to apply SSN while living in Philippines? What are requirements to get SSN? Event with out use of wwII veterans? How to get SSN as ordernary citizens of ...
If you are the child of a US citizen, born overseas, then your parents should have reported your birth as soon as possible to the US embassy, as you are a US citizen by birthright. If that was done properly, you should have documentation of the ... Read More
Americans with Medicare question by Larry Fisher
I'm 64 next week. SS just sent me an email mentioning medicare for next year (at 65) and some links. Since I'm retired here, and my Social Security goes direct deposit into my US bank I'm looking for a way to opt out seamlessly of Medicare and it's ...
@Larry FisherNot necessarily, Lar. I had to use the Manila branch of the SS in the embassay during the pandemic, which is why I had to give them my Philippine address. All retired americans can opt out of part b, so you could do it with your Nv ... Read More
No ID No Entry Policy at Immigration by Beric84
I'm not sure if this is only an issue at the main office, but has anybody else had problems with this at Immigration recently?I have been in the Philippines for almost ten years. I had to change my visa and apply for a new ACR card, cancelling the ...
If you’re at the main office, there are literally hundreds of BI approved visa arrangers there. Since you have your claim stub, ask one of them to go inside and pick it up for you. They would probably do it for a small fee. In the ... Read More
Expat/Balikbayan from California by ilovealvaroarredondo
Hi everybody! I’m not exactly an “expat” but a dual citizen because my $$ is tied up in America. I’m also not exactly a “Balikbayan” since I was born and raised in the U.S. I’m a middle-aged ...
Suggest you say where in the Philippines you will be living, lol. I hang out with around four to six expats here in Dasmarinas, Cavite area, but no way we’re going to the metro, lol. If you’re in the area, you could come out with ... Read More
Americans with Medicare question by Larry Fisher
I'm 64 next week. SS just sent me an email mentioning medicare for next year (at 65) and some links. Since I'm retired here, and my Social Security goes direct deposit into my US bank I'm looking for a way to opt out seamlessly of Medicare and it's ...
@Enzyte BobYes, Bob, I have my Philippines address registered with SS, that’s why I have to do annual reports. You’re correct, I should have mentioned that. Read More
Americans with Medicare question by Larry Fisher
I'm 64 next week. SS just sent me an email mentioning medicare for next year (at 65) and some links. Since I'm retired here, and my Social Security goes direct deposit into my US bank I'm looking for a way to opt out seamlessly of Medicare and it's ...
I did the opt out a couple years ago. The form came in the mail, I checked the opt out box on the back of the form. Sent it via LBC to my daughter, in the states, she then put it in the US mail system. No problem. Cost ... Read More
“EEC-B FEE by vehicross100
Just curious if any PR 13a holders have exited MNL recently in regards to what they paid for the “ECC-B” fee ?
hi ! nice visas forum, but reserved to professional : PR13a ? ECC-A B ? MNL ?........ -@Info RebondHi, translating, PR13a is one of the available visas. There are tourist visas, (9A), marriage visas, (13a), (married to a pinoy/pinay), ... Read More
Single guy in the philippines where to go? by foveres
Hi ive been to the Philippines for the first time this year with the purpose of having a nice vacation and meeting girls for dating and just a night.Ive been to the island Mindoro and Manila and i got to say ive had a great time on mindoro at Puerto ...
If you’re staying in Makati, there are a couple bars in greenbelt mall that play through the late night hours. You can also find a couple bars in the central business district. I recommend speaking to some of the male waiters and see if they ... Read More
requirements to go out of philippines by giovannigio
someone know what is now requirements for go out of philippines for foreigners ? someone know what is requirment then come back in philippines for foreigner?
@Enzyte Bob Technically, yes, it’s valid for 30 days, but since you don’t get it for 3 days, really it’s good for 27 days from when you pick it up. They don’t put your flight number on it, so you can catch any flight in ... Read More
requirements to go out of philippines by giovannigio
someone know what is now requirements for go out of philippines for foreigners ? someone know what is requirment then come back in philippines for foreigner?
To return to the Philippines as a foreigner, you will again need an onward bound ticket to another country, dated for within 28 days of your arrival in the Philippines. (You don’t use it, but most airlines will ask to see it before allowing ... Read More
Looking for visa options to move to Philippines by GuestPoster1923
Hi im a 43 year old American who is considering moving to the Philippines. I have been reading online trying to fine out if i can even live there permanently, And I am confused so im looking for clarification.I am hopefully receiving soon SSDI ...
@78EJTWOSorry to tell you, ssdi has strict rules on your benefits. If you are a US citizen, you can draw your benefits for a maximum of six months outside US territory before you have to return to US territory to keep them from being cancelled, and ... Read More
Bank loans in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello, Finances and banking can sometimes be a headache for many expats, especially when it comes to taking out bank loans. Is it difficult for an expat to get approved for a bank loan in the Philippines? What are the types of bank loans ...
I had a devil of a time trying to open a bank account here on a tourist visa. I tried bdo, east west, chinabank, bpi, finally gave up. Went without for over three years. Then, about eight months ago, I noticed a branch of RCBC in my area. Stopped in ... Read More
What's it like Living in the Philippines May to October by kilgore99
Hi, only visited the Philippines in the cooler less humid months, wandering how do your retirees (65+) cope in the 'low lands' (excepting Tagaytay , Bagio, etc) during May-October
I’m at 650 ft in elevation in Dasma. Yes, it gets hot, lol. But being from Chicago, and spending 5 to 6 months of the year there being cold to frozen, I love the heat. We have an aircon, but rarely use it. Fans are fine for me. My electric ... Read More
Safety in Philippines by ukdan
Hi everybody- new here. Dan from London. I have a question about safety in Php.I met this fantastic woman from Lucena online and want to visit her at the end of this month. I was thinking of taking a bus or Taxi to a resort close to Lucena where we ...
A good website for finding how to get places here is called Rome2RioIs there a direct bus between Manila and Lucena?Yes, there is a direct bus departing from Jam Liner Buendia Bus Terminal and arriving at Dalahican Terminal. Services depart hourly, ... Read More
tourist visa by pierredesmarais6
may be a bad news for tourists visa to come in june... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSYKlHoIFqk
https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/05/23/23/house-oks-proposed-bureau-of-immigration-modernization-on-2nd-readinghttps://youtu.be/P4yNsAZVupwHere are two links, the first one is on the BI modernization act, which is what is PRESENTLY in the Philippines ... Read More
tourist visa by pierredesmarais6
may be a bad news for tourists visa to come in june... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSYKlHoIFqk
@Cherryann01 Yes, the digital nomad visa proposal is new, from BBM, just recently. The changes on visa requirements which he brings up are from January 2022. Watch the video again. And do your own research, don’t believe me, that’s ... Read More
tourist visa by pierredesmarais6
may be a bad news for tourists visa to come in june... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSYKlHoIFqk
@bigpearl If you pause the video when he puts up the Bureau of Immigration notice, it’s dated in January 2022. Also, I did find a few articles about changes made in the Philippines tourist visa programs in June, 2022, but they were all ... Read More
tourist visa by pierredesmarais6
may be a bad news for tourists visa to come in june... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSYKlHoIFqk
Wouldn’t an article from January 2022, talking about a vote in June have already happened in june of 2022? I find nothing at all in the news or on the internet about this. The initial visa is for 30 days, first extension is for an additional ... Read More
Sending documents within the Philippines by jcole4455
My wife is currently in the Philippines on vacation. She needs to send a copy of her Filipino passport from Macrohon to Tacloban for motorcar insurance purposes. Any recommendations on how she can accomplish this? Any recommendations would be ...
Agreed, LBC. Cheap, fast, and reliable Read More
Land purchase by robertjjpaquet
Can foreigners own lands in the PH?
You know, you CAN apply for citizenship here. Then, you could vote, own land, etc., etc. Read More
Filipino attempts at American food by TitoDan
I'm a very non-picky person when it comes to food. I was raised on home cooking, meat and potatoes kinds of food, simply prepared with simple ingredients. I've given it several tries, and am giving up on local attempts at American ...
@Wellsfry No, I’m in Dasmarinas Read More
Filipino attempts at American food by TitoDan
I'm a very non-picky person when it comes to food. I was raised on home cooking, meat and potatoes kinds of food, simply prepared with simple ingredients. I've given it several tries, and am giving up on local attempts at American ...
Well, Dan, I have to agree with Big Pearl Steve. This ain’t the US, and when in Rome…That being said, the little kiosk Franks has a decent chili dog, Zarks burgers makes a good burger, pancake house makes a good ham and cheese omelette, ... Read More
HBOGOAsia? Anyone using this? by Larry Fisher
I noticed today online "HBOGOAsia" streaming service. At 1190p per year is it worth it? I had clicked on a link for the Discovery channel, finding out that wasn't available and it gave me this hboasia option.
I had Discovery+ before, but it just ended here in the Philippines. The hbo go looks good, but I haven’t tried it yet. You can download and browse the content via their app. My suggestion, go with the monthly subscription, (199 pesos), try it ... Read More
NCL cruises coming to the Philippines by mugteck
Just put down a deposit for a cruise on 1/27/25 starting in Taipei and then stopping on 4 consecutive days at Salamague (Ilocos), then Manila, Boracay and Puerto Princesa The cruise also stops in Malaysia, Brunei and two stops in ...
ok, here’s a couple questions, do you have an example of costs involved, and can one just do the Philippine stops?Thanks Read More
Quality woman for a quality guy by Slowdown23
My name is Ryan from the United states. I am looking (not rushing) for a traditional woman who I can get to know and spend my life with. I am 37 in good shape, financially secure and have strong interpersonal skills. Able to retire in 13 years when ...
Slowdown, there are a lot of negative posters on this forum, whose only joy seems to be trying to make others as miserable as they seem to be themselves. My advice would be to just ignore them, look for the good advice givers. Read More
Quality woman for a quality guy by Slowdown23
My name is Ryan from the United states. I am looking (not rushing) for a traditional woman who I can get to know and spend my life with. I am 37 in good shape, financially secure and have strong interpersonal skills. Able to retire in 13 years when ...
I suggest you get Facebook messenger, if you don’t already have it. Big here, and much easier and cheaper to stay in touch with people you meet. I applaud your decision to try out the provinces, because the big cities are where the gold ... 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?
That’s especially good news for me to hear, and counters what I’ve been told locally. Especially that you got SRRV. 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?
Point of order, the Philippines will recognize a divorce from another country, but you need to go to court to have that happen with an official copy of your divorce papers.It becomes more complicated if you married a Filipina in the Philippines, ... Read More
US phone number by whackerdog123
Does anyone have a suggestion on how to get a US phone number and have my calls forwarded here in the Philippines. and if so a recommendation on a specific service. I don't care if it isn't free, I just want one that doesn't cater to business. I ...
Wow, I looked at all three of those recommendations, and it looks like you’re laying out quite a bit of cash. If you just need to be able to receive an occasional call from the US, and not planning to call TO the states, then I have a couple ... Read More
Help desperately needed by Guest8754
Our three month vacation has turned into hell, on earth. The misery of our current situation is, quite literally, unparalleled, in my 73 years, of living. And we have two months to go.We could simply go home. But Eva air demands ...
First off, Cebu pacific is having a seat sale. Since you are in mindano, probably cheaper to fly to Cebu. Easy to fly domestically here, only need your passport. You can use agoda website to find cheaper hotels. Personally, I have no plans to ever ... Read More
How strict are COVID protocols now? by sekmet
Is masking strictly enforced, or do people need a Vax card to get in some places?It's not a good comparison, but in the US it seems like everyone who wants to get vaccinated has done it, and there are no restrictions at all. I'm fully ...
And there you go. A good conversation with good information quickly gets polluted with trolls. Why do some people have to disparage others? It’s why I seldom read a lot of these forums anymore.Anyway, in Dasmarinas, my nearest jollibee ... Read More
Trip to Singapore by ibusan1046
Hi all, I am going to Singapore for 3 days and back to Philippines. Any tips or advice are most welcome.
I went back in May. Advice, definitely use the subway system, it’s cheap, comfortable, lots of signage to direct you, and safe. Avoid the bus system, very little signage, very easy to get lost. You can buy a transport card directly at the ... Read More
Do you still ride in jeepneys, buses, tricycles, taxis, pedicabs? by Timo62
For about eleven years we rode in jeepneys, tricycles, taxis and buses when here in the Philippines. We saved a lot of money by using all that public transportation. Then, about a year ago, we bought a second hand Honda Odyssey van. The van is far ...
Yes, I enjoy riding in tricycles, jeepneys and buses, and UV express. I have used taxis, but they are expensive. I pass on pedicabs. I live in Calabarzon, and getting around is pretty easy. It helps that I’ve picked up a decent amount of ... Read More
Is The Philippines Right for Me by Cherryann01
I have just returned from the Philippines after spending three weeks there and returning to the Uk via a four night stop in HCMC and I am questioning if the Philippines is the right place for me to eventually retire in a few years. I may upset a few ...
@blacksheepjuno Where did you end up retiring? Just curious... - @WellsfryI ended up retiring in Dasma, near SM dasma. Not great, but good. Enough “metro” near me for my everyday living, not to far from the metro when I need ... Read More
Is The Philippines Right for Me by Cherryann01
I have just returned from the Philippines after spending three weeks there and returning to the Uk via a four night stop in HCMC and I am questioning if the Philippines is the right place for me to eventually retire in a few years. I may upset a few ...
Thank you for that and that was actually my next plan when visiting my girlfriend, to ask her to meet me in Manila, stay a couple of nights and then get on the plane to Palawan and go to El Nido and see the best the Philippines has to offer. Then I ... Read More
Is The Philippines Right for Me by Cherryann01
I have just returned from the Philippines after spending three weeks there and returning to the Uk via a four night stop in HCMC and I am questioning if the Philippines is the right place for me to eventually retire in a few years. I may upset a few ...
Yes, you are accurate in your observations. But, like Wellsfry said, the cost of living is significantly cheaper here than our home countries. I would venture to say that every foreigner that makes the decision to retire here has the personally ... Read More
The dogs here are crazy by eptowing
So this is my first trip to the Philippines. First thing I must remind you is I’m traveling with my 75 pound chocolate lab. These people think my dog is a man eating Animal. When we go for walk or at the outside markets and when they ...
I would hope you have had your dog vaccinated for parvo. It’s everywhere here, and the more you take your dog to different places, the higher it’s risk of exposure. I keep my dogs home, since I’ve lost three puppies to that ... Read More
Overstaying Visa by talamban
I have been living in the Philippines (Cebu City) for about three years. I took a 1 week Vacation trip to Vietnam and returned to Manila on October 25, 2019. My 3 year stay period will expire October 24, 2022. I have a trip planned and already ...
I heartily recommend you change your flight. If you exceed your three years, they will hit you with a 25,000 peso fine, PLUS extend you for four months automatically as a final extension, another 12,000, PLUS charge you for another ACR I card, even ... Read More
RT PCR test sites in Manila with results in less than 24 hours? by scott1953
Hello, I was wondering if any expats have experienced getting tested and receiving results for the required RT PCR test in order to board international flights. My 36 month vacation is up. I need to exit the country March 20th from Manila to Guam ...
I’ve done three RTPCR tests. All done outside the city. All were acceptable for travel. Just make sure they say they are a DOH accredited facility. Since you’re in Manila, I suggest you try Philippine airport diagnostic laboratory. ... Read More
Received my booster Vaxx by Enzyte Bob
On Tuesday at the Pasig City hall I received my booster (third vaxx) and they asked me what Vaxx I wanted and I chose Pfizer. My wife and housekeeper also chose Pfizer. My first two Vaxx's were Sinovac. The day after the housekeeper had no side ...
I have personally spoken with hundreds of people who did not die or suffer extreme distress after getting vaccinated. 😊😊😊 Read More
Exit and reentry Philippines to satisfy new tourist visa status by James Gardner
I am nearing the end of my 3 year stay and must leave. I plan on flying to Singapore and hope to return after 12 hours there. I am trying to find information if that time will meet the requirements. Any tips or past experiences are welcomed. Thanks ...
If you go through immigration, you’re going to have to quarantine in Singapore. They don’t have a VTL (vaccinated travel lane) agreement with the Philippines yet. Here is my question, don’t you have to get that all important visa ... Read More
Covid insurance by marcovalacchi1994
Hello, could you suggest me some insurance companies for travelling to Philippines?
This shows a limit of 1mil pesos. The Philippines requires almost 2 mil pesos coverage. I don’t see a way to increase the coverage on the link, AND words are misspelled in the coverage details. Persoal instead of personal? Really? Read More
Here for the child rearing long haul by Guest3456
Hi name is Joseph I am here since before the lockdown Feb 2020. I have a daughter born here in the first year. Would I like to leave? I think my partner would have a nervous breakdown if I mentioned taking a plane out of here. Anyway Also I want to ...
I’m in Dasmarinas, there’s a couple places here that sell brand new multi cabs, I’ve never checked the prices. If you’re planning to buy, a lot depends on your status here. Expats are very restricted on what they can legally ... Read More
Here for the child rearing long haul by Guest3456
Hi name is Joseph I am here since before the lockdown Feb 2020. I have a daughter born here in the first year. Would I like to leave? I think my partner would have a nervous breakdown if I mentioned taking a plane out of here. Anyway Also I want to ...
You don’t say where you are living now. I’m outside the metro Manila area. It’s quite possible to rent a decent apartment for under 7000 pesos per month, if you look into the provinces. You can look in Imus, Bacoor, Dasmarinas, ... Read More
3 year exit visa by rcolvin1
Cheapest city and country to exit to for 1 or 2 days and return to Manilla, also airline to use ?
Phnom Penh, Cambodia, if you’re fully vaccinated. No quarantine, rapid saliva test on arrival, covid insurance recommended, not required, cheap hotels available, Jetstar Asia or Air Asia, you’ll go through either Singapore or kuala ... Read More
Anyone know what will happen?
I was scheduled to leave the Philippines on January 3rd. However, my rt-pcr test came back positive and I had to cancel. I’ve rescheduled for the 14th of January. Problem is, my exit visa and my 36 month stay expired on the 4th. What happens ... Read More
entering the philippine nowadays by rafic50
Is it enough to present marriage certificate to filippina at airport to enter the Philippine? no other documents available and my wife is not accompaning me.
Try the Philippines statistics authority at Psa.gov.ph If you were here, you would request a cenomar, which would show your marriage information, but you can contact them by email, they have the information, but I don’t know whether they would ... 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
Finally Got My Second Jab of Sinovac by Enzyte Bob
This morning my stepson said the Sinovac is available at the Pasig City Hall. Everything was so quick elapse time leaving the house was one hour. Taxi fare was 89 Pesos, how in the world can they make money? Well the Taxi driver was happy with a ...
The article you link is about a new vaccine being developed that hopefully will work against not just covid, but also future possible coronaviruses. It is not about the vaccines presently in use. Self inflicted wounds are painful! You know, most ... Read More
Finally Got My Second Jab of Sinovac by Enzyte Bob
This morning my stepson said the Sinovac is available at the Pasig City Hall. Everything was so quick elapse time leaving the house was one hour. Taxi fare was 89 Pesos, how in the world can they make money? Well the Taxi driver was happy with a ...
Congrats, Bob, on completing your second shot. And congrats on having those completed vaccination cards. Read More
Renew tourist visa behind 3 years of stay by mikebrant1973
Today I got finally all the information about renew visa behind 3 years of stay under tourist visa(9a) I got it in cebu office of immigration . One week before your visa expire(the 36 months) , you need to go to the immigration near your area and ...
There’s a new development in the 36 month limit as of September 9. I’m not sure how it’s going to work, but apparently foreigners will be able to continue to renew tourist visas beyond the 36 month limit until such time as the ... Read More
Where to deposit US stimulus paper check (Philippines) by sarahw45
Hello everyone! I have just received my paper check in the mail a few weeks ago and am now wondering if anyone knows how I can cash it or somehow deposit it into a bank account here in the Philippines. My parents were able to receive theirs by ...
Nope, it happened automatically without my intervention. Have you tried accessing the IRS website? That’s a good place to start Read More
Where to deposit US stimulus paper check (Philippines) by sarahw45
Hello everyone! I have just received my paper check in the mail a few weeks ago and am now wondering if anyone knows how I can cash it or somehow deposit it into a bank account here in the Philippines. My parents were able to receive theirs by ...
My first stimulus check went to an old, closed bank account. They held onto it for a week, then sent it back to the IRS. About a month later, it was mailed to me, so if that bank sent your checks back, they may send paper checks to your on file ... Read More
Applying for social security while living in the Philippines by Sumomaster2004
Has anyone applied for their social security while living in the Philippines? What requirements did they ask for and how long did it take for them to approve it?
Be careful when applying for early SS When you apply is very important. With early SS the amount of money you can earn is limited without paying a penalty. The penalty is one dollar for every two earned. The clock on earnings starts on January 1, ... Read More
Applying for social security while living in the Philippines by Sumomaster2004
Has anyone applied for their social security while living in the Philippines? What requirements did they ask for and how long did it take for them to approve it?
How did you get back pay? Is it from when you applied or after your birthdate?Back pay is automatic. I wanted my benefits to start in January, that’s why I applied at the beginning of November (actually, thinking back, I think it might have ... Read More
Applying for social security while living in the Philippines by Sumomaster2004
Has anyone applied for their social security while living in the Philippines? What requirements did they ask for and how long did it take for them to approve it?
Yours was faster than mine. I applied at the beginning of November, did an in person interview in the states (pre COVID), was told I could expect my first dd in January, didn’t drop until March, (but it did include back pay from the January ... 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.
I use a Netspend account. It gives you a router and account number for direct deposit, and yes, I got my last two stimulus payments directly deposited to it. They have a basic account with no monthly fees, and a $1.50 per transaction fee. I simply ... 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 ...
If you are a US military veteran of any kind you can get J&J at the VA in Manila. I think spouses also qualify.Aaron, Is this a for sure thing? I was under the impression that only veterans already under VA care were eligible? Is this for all ... Read More
Draw your own conclusion by Enzyte Bob
In our household four of us received the Sinovac Vaccine at for different times at four different locations. [b] Three of us has contracted Covid-19[/b]
Bob, Did all four of you complete both shots and got COVID more than 14 days after the second jab? COVID infections before completion of the entire time period of the two shot doses and two weeks for full efficacy are not considered ... 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 got my first shot five days ago. Sinovac, no side effects to date. I’m also a senior (64) Read More
Covid Vaccine Shot by Enzyte Bob
[b]Well being a AntiVac person I bit the bullet and had my Vac this last Monday, here was my experience.[/b] My Wife and Stepson had their vaccination several weeks ago. I wanted to wait for the Pfizer Vaccination, with the feeling less could go ...
Today I got my first vaccine jab. I’m here on an up to date tourist visa. Here’s how it happened. I stopped in the barangay office for information. They sent me next door to the barangay health clinic. In turn, they gave me the website ... Read More
Modern City With Nearby Beaches? by sinsinbad
I plan to return to the PI whenever travel resumes and looking for a modern city with fairly fast/reliable internet, good places to eat, and without heavy traffic, and with nice sandy beaches with clear and fairly healthy water to swim in nearby to ...
Michael, your suggestion of living in Iloilo and taking a ferry to Boracay sounded great, until I checked Google Maps. Google says it is about 219 kms and will take 4 1/2 hours. I have no idea, but I would guess that it would really take much ... Read More
General enquiry about PH by aklokow
Hi everyone, we are going to be living in Lopez Quezon, we just finished building a house there. Not much happening in Lopez but that s fine for us no need for the hussle and buzzle. Just wondering id anyone is also out in the provinces, perhaps in ...
Back to the OP, For price I recommend Puregold over the three you mentioned for groceries. You’ll save approx. 10 to 20% on your purchases. For your fresh veggies, you’ll probably do better at local markets. For meats, S & R has a ... Read More
General enquiry about PH by aklokow
Hi everyone, we are going to be living in Lopez Quezon, we just finished building a house there. Not much happening in Lopez but that s fine for us no need for the hussle and buzzle. Just wondering id anyone is also out in the provinces, perhaps in ...
I’m sorry, but if eating out is just showing off your wealth, how is the Philippines any different than any other country in the world? The high end and family and casual dining industry, (at least before the pandemic) is doing quite well. How ... Read More
My 36 month tourist VISA will expire and I don't want to leave my son by James Cuervo
Hello, hope everyone is doing okay! I'm faced with a horrible situation, where I forgot that I can't stay more than 36 months on a tourist visa. I'm 24 and not married (can't get married because processing other papers, getting ...
If you go more than 6 months without extending, you have to make an affidavit explaining your overstay, and plead for your next extension. I found this out the hard way, because I followed the lockdown rules and didn’t go out from March until ... Read More
Maximum Continuous Stay using Tourist Visas? by lukestevens1233
Hi everyone, My name is Luke. I am here on a tourist visa that I have been getting extensions on for the past year and a half. Does anybody know how long you can stay in the Philippines on a tourist visa using this method of getting extensions? To ...
Hey, ginnylarry, yes, I’m presently in the Philippines, almost two and a half years on a tourist visa with extensions. The “visa run” is what I’ve seen it called when a foreigner makes an short trip outside the country and ... Read More
Maximum Continuous Stay using Tourist Visas? by lukestevens1233
Hi everyone, My name is Luke. I am here on a tourist visa that I have been getting extensions on for the past year and a half. Does anybody know how long you can stay in the Philippines on a tourist visa using this method of getting extensions? To ...
Ok, here’s a question. How can a person make a “visa run” trip during this time? All close by countries require a quarantine, and the Philippines requires a quarantine as well when returning? That’s going to run into some ... Read More
Meralco May Bills Increasing by Enzyte Bob
In April Meralco raised the cost of electric service, that means a customer consuming 200 kwh saw their bill increase by17 Pesos. In May Meralco is raising the cost of electric service, that means a customer who consumed 200 kwh will see their ...
Bob, stop moving your decimals. $187.94 divided by 933 kWh Is $.2014, or 20.14 cents per kWh, not $20.14 per kWh. If it was $20.14 per kWh, your bill would be $18,794.00 for one month, or 899,293 pesos. You’re scaring me, lol. Read More
Moving to the Philippines just before the crisis by Diksha
Hi everybody, Taking the plunge and daring to move abroad is a real challenge, but when your move to the Philippines is marked by an unprecedented health, social and economic crisis, as we have been experiencing for just over a year, this change ...
I had been making plans for years to retire to the Philippines. I first came here in 1978, as a young serviceman. I was stationed in country for 9 months, and met and married a visayan woman. Although the marriage eventually didn’t work out, I ... Read More
Where to deposit US stimulus paper check (Philippines) by sarahw45
Hello everyone! I have just received my paper check in the mail a few weeks ago and am now wondering if anyone knows how I can cash it or somehow deposit it into a bank account here in the Philippines. My parents were able to receive theirs by ...
Another option is to obtain a prepaid debit card. I got one from Netspend. The basic option has no monthly fee, and only a $1.50 per transaction fee. Their app has a check deposit by photo option as well. You may have to have a US IP address to do ... Read More
What struck you about the Philippines? by Cheryl
Hello everybody, When you first settled in the Philippines, you might have been struck by cultural aspects of life in the Philippines and you might even have anecdotes about your integration here. We would like you to share with expats-to-be ...
I’ve seen it mentioned or complained about many times that there is a huge rubbish problem here, and many of us foreigners from first world countries tend to look down our noses at the people, without taking the time to become aware of some of ... Read More
Car or Taxi (or Bike?) by GuestPoster1402
Hi All I'm going to be moving to the Philippines shortly and will be here for 2-4 years on a work contract. The office is in Makati and I'm planning on renting somewhere near by. My question is what will be the best option for me to get ...
I lived in makati for a year, renting a condo in the Rada Regency. Renting there is much cheaper than most of the other high rises in the area. Street parking is hard to find. My high rise did have an interior parking area. I rented a space for a ... 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 ...
Some things that struck me here, that are so much different from what I was used to. Not good or bad, just different Taxes included in the posted price most everywhere. In the US, taxes are always added on to the bill. Public transportation is ... Read More