aklokow
South African looking for information about Philippines
Forum posts
114
About me
South African
Registration: 01 June 2021
Philippine vinegar .. cane, coconut and palm by PalawOne
`"How vinegar has given Filipino food a sour kick for centuries, from adobo to dipping sauce"Cooks in the Philippines have used the ‘ingredient of 2026’ to bring out complexity in dishes long before the condiment started trendingTribune ...
My 2 Peso worth of comment, we opened our little restaurant 13 months ago and its going from strength to strength but that is not the point. Its mentioned about vinegar and sweet, salty, sour typical local cuisine. What we offer is western style ... Read More
Building a House in the Philippines by PalawOne
My wife and I are thinking of perhaps building another house in the Phils. What do people think of this?This time we're thinking of building something like this house design from pinoyeplans.comIt's a very traditional looking design, on purpose, but ...
@PalawOne We are building as we speak a two storey building dual purpose house or restaurant, can share the details and cost if you are interested. I do now to bore the forum if the subject has been discussed in enough detail.CheersAndre Read More
Backup generator suggestions? by Larry Fisher
Getting too often lately with the brownouts. And there's always the possibility of another Odette in the area knocking power out for a month or more. I am seriously considering a backup generator. But I have no clue what size to get. This is a weak ...
Hi PauiWe have a Promate 7000 diesel generator, bought locally and been using it now 3 years not very often, run it just to keep things moving and charging the battery.Cheers Andre Read More
Starlink Internet vs local internet by aklokow
Hi AllJust wanted to know if anyone is using Starlink? We decided to get Starlink when they had this special in the philippines of initail price to be 10K less until August. So we got our today, the monthly fee compare to our existing internet is ...
@Kampkos104 Hi Keith, yes we do wifi calling via WA or Zoom, working great, Netflix is great also even when about 10 devices are connected and using the internet. I am very happy with the performance. Read More
Motorcycle Enthusiast by Bmwachi
For motorcycle enthusiast lets get to know each other
I am with you, where are you based? Read More
Schools in PH by aklokow
Hi AllI had a discussion with 3 teachers from very different schools and cities, the reason behind the discussion was related to my plan for homeschooling and to gather more info etc, but not on the home school topic we've been there more on the ...
@Larry FisherEzcellent reply and fantastic idea to help each other. The key is the 'want to learn or improve" must be there otherwise it will be pointless. I am eager to improve my English as it is also not my first language.Thanks again Larry Read More
Schools in PH by aklokow
Hi AllI had a discussion with 3 teachers from very different schools and cities, the reason behind the discussion was related to my plan for homeschooling and to gather more info etc, but not on the home school topic we've been there more on the ...
@daytradersteve13 From a private school in Cavite and also public schools in Quezon province and Tagatay, I do not want to mention any school names, just merely asking for any feedback or maybe contradicting what I have experienced. Read More
Schools in PH
Hi AllI had a discussion with 3 teachers from very different schools and cities, the reason behind the discussion was related to my plan for homeschooling and to gather more info etc, but not on the home school topic we've been there more on the ... 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,
@blacksheepjunoYip agree Read More
Backup generator suggestions? by Larry Fisher
Getting too often lately with the brownouts. And there's always the possibility of another Odette in the area knocking power out for a month or more. I am seriously considering a backup generator. But I have no clue what size to get. This is a weak ...
Larry some input from this side, during the building stage I sized for exactly outages or typhoons and based on the essentials that you will need such as fridge, water pump if you have one, AC in Living room, Ac in bedroom, TV, Wi-Fi and things we ... 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 ...
@bigpearlHi Steve, I want to tap in your experience, would you recommend sending in the membrane for cleaning and then re-use? I have done it twice now but today I had to change the membrane and the one that came back from cleaning some months ago ... Read More
Investements / Savings in PH by aklokow
We have so many very knowledgeable and experienced members on this forum. I was more curious / wondering if any of you have invested any money locally here in PH, not to share amounts but if you do not mind perhaps the interest rates. In our case we ...
@Jessy Goder Jessy i am not promoting any services just asking a question. I do not understand how you saw from my post any services.Anyway lets not ponder on this i suggest just remove it then there is no problem.Apologies to all if it came across ... Read More
Investements / Savings in PH
We have so many very knowledgeable and experienced members on this forum. I was more curious / wondering if any of you have invested any money locally here in PH, not to share amounts but if you do not mind perhaps the interest rates. In our case we ... 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 ...
Hi Steve when we tested the water at the start we had a very high iron and manganese content that has now diminished because of the collapsing of the borehole surrounding soil and rock below. the water is now clear. Why UV we are in the province and ... Read More
Building a House in the Philippines by PalawOne
My wife and I are thinking of perhaps building another house in the Phils. What do people think of this?This time we're thinking of building something like this house design from pinoyeplans.comIt's a very traditional looking design, on purpose, but ...
Just remember you are in the Philippines and not much is transparent and clear. Suggest you get the designer / architect from the municipality on a private assignment cost approx 35K for a full set of drawings fully approved. Use a local contractor, ... 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 ...
Here averaging 25 KW harvest and we have overcast weather most days with consumption of approx 20 KW some days more and some days less. By 9 pm batteries at 85% and in the morning at 55 % so I am really happy with the performance, this whole month ... 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 ...
@renegadesric529 From my experience not something you want to do yourself as you need to connect to the main utility supply and have ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch) and in our case we also have a diesel generator to sync all these maybe an ... 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 Hi Steve, basically a 160 feet borehole, with big filters, resin for the sediment, activated carbon for smell and impurities, and multimedia for the basic water filtering, then 3 sediment inline filters into the 1000 liter supply tanks. ... Read More
Waste Management in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, As an expat in the Philippines, waste management can often pose challenges and requires an understanding of local standards and regulations. Understanding local practices is essential for environmental compliance and seamless ...
Yes agree that garbage is a big problem no matter where you are in PH. Here we garbage collection in part of the city, the other side have to manage how they see fit and that is burning with somedays really suffocating smoke. People with babies ... Read More
Philippine Banks by PalawOne
`Forbes, Best Philippine Banks ..This Forbes list published today, "evaluated bank categories such as digital services, customer services, and financial advice."Reference : Rappler APR 24th, 2023 By LANCE SPENCER ...
Gents again my bit of a penny worth. I opened HSBC PHP and USD account from Dubai, no problem and transferring from HSBC Dubai to PH was free. Since I am here I opened more accounts for exapmple at Securit ban which offer 3.5 % interest PA on USD ... 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 ...
Hi All my little bit of info to this topic. After Steve mentioned how well he ws doing with his solar system I was really concerned about our system not performing so gave it some thought and planning, relocated panels for a cost of P12K and now ... Read More
Monthly budget / expenses by aklokow
Hi AllJust a for a refence check, if some of you can share what you are paying monthly for living expenses, not to pry on the people financial situations, I will try and make it more simplified.We do not have access to the famous stores like ...
@Larry FisherHi Larry that is great, maybe you can think to extend to all the water faucets in the house will be worth it, trust me.Additional i would recommend to keep a spare bladder, its not expensive. I had one that failed on me and basically ... Read More
What's your take riding a motorcycle in the Philippines as an expat? by Jackson4
Now as an older person with more time on my hands and a little more cash in my pocket, this wild man in me wanting to ride a motorcycle in the Philippines to feel the wind in my remaining hair. What's your experience?
With all the risks and danger's that everyone has mentioned, as an old biker myself, there is simply nothing to compare bike riding as a stress reliever, live to ride and ride to live is the motto. Maybe horse riding is the next best option if no ... Read More
Outdoor AC Compressors and Lizards by aklokow
Hi AllHave anyone firstly experienced lizards crawling into the compressors and find a way to the pc board because its hot and they crawl in there and cause a short circuit, pc board gone. Today is my 3rd pc board lost, getting annoyed and ...
@Enzyte BobHi Bob thanks for the input, regarding MOV's good idea also a AVR will do the job of keeping the voltage stable without surges and give protection.Regarding the electronic boards on the AC not the power but it is the lizards or gecko's as ... Read More
Outdoor AC Compressors and Lizards by aklokow
Hi AllHave anyone firstly experienced lizards crawling into the compressors and find a way to the pc board because its hot and they crawl in there and cause a short circuit, pc board gone. Today is my 3rd pc board lost, getting annoyed and ...
Last question on this, I have read that we could use Silicon sealant on the PCB boards, it does not conduct electricity and will prevent any crawling animal create a short on the board. As long as it is neutral silicon sealant without Acetic ... Read More
Outdoor AC Compressors and Lizards by aklokow
Hi AllHave anyone firstly experienced lizards crawling into the compressors and find a way to the pc board because its hot and they crawl in there and cause a short circuit, pc board gone. Today is my 3rd pc board lost, getting annoyed and ...
@Moon DogWe have all carrier units, 2 x 1.5 HP and 3 x 1 HP. It was installed during the Covid period so we could not be here, whether it was done correctly or not I would not know.We have the compressors on the outside wall about 2 meters from ... Read More
Medicare in the Philippines by Tsmslf
To those of you who may know this, my apologies but, for those expat seniors who didn't know it, St. Luke's Hospital in Manila TAKES MEDICARE AND SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE!! I just discovered this on St. Luke's site. You need an ...
@danfinnWow thanks for sharing and quite a wakeup call, I will have to revisit my participation, maybe keep the family on PhilHealth as they are Filipina and for me like the car insurance just set aside some money for the unfortunate event. Read More
Outdoor AC Compressors and Lizards
Hi AllHave anyone firstly experienced lizards crawling into the compressors and find a way to the pc board because its hot and they crawl in there and cause a short circuit, pc board gone. Today is my 3rd pc board lost, getting annoyed and ... Read More
Sense of humour in the Philippines by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Should we set out to explore Filipinos culture through its sense of humour? Indeed, if one is planning to settle in the country, it is best to understand the cultural codes governing humour in order to avoid any faux-pas. What ...
Living in the province, i agree very limited sense of humour, i have stopped trying to make a joke as most do not understand the humour and also, I am not really in the mood to change to blank expressionless faces. That is where I first experience ... Read More
Medicare in the Philippines by Tsmslf
To those of you who may know this, my apologies but, for those expat seniors who didn't know it, St. Luke's Hospital in Manila TAKES MEDICARE AND SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE!! I just discovered this on St. Luke's site. You need an ...
@OkieboySorry to hear about the loss. Personally, for me I have enrolled in PhilHealth for ma and Family at 17 K per year. I have put aside a sum for the unfortunate event that we all hope would never happen, but it will it's just a matter of ... Read More
CTPL or Comprehensive insurance by aklokow
Hi all just some help please our comprehensive insurance on our car is expiring after one year when we bought the car new.The car is a Toyota Fortuner and to renew the comprehensive will range anything from 34k to 42 k which is a lot. I also believe ...
@danfinnThanks for the input, which makes a lot of sense, we are also in the province and drive very little, now and then a long distance which is 12o km one way but takes 2 hours.I think you have convinced me to be self-insured, makes total ... Read More
Retirement - Hobbies / Work by aklokow
Hi All, again another topic just for interest's sake, as I guess most of us are retired here in PH, some rent, some own houses etc. What will be nice is to hear what people do every day with their free time.In my case we are the only house at the ...
@bigpearl and Coach 53I know the feeling of being busy 24/7 and no time for all the hobbies. But the good thing is as we are still healthy and fit now, we do the more physical things and slowly progress to the less physical, in my opinion, reason ... Read More
ARC1 card visa 13a by merlzlabra
Hello, I’m just wondering if anybody experience what our situation is so my husband and applied for 13a visa in San Francisco California and got his 1yr stamp on his passport and give us yellow envelope to present at port of entry upon arrival ...
My experience to shed some info, I arrived in PH and without any application for visa got a one-year visa. Had to show only vaccination certificates at the airport. Once in PH I have an attorney office that did all my applications, for ACR very ... Read More
CTPL or Comprehensive insurance
Hi all just some help please our comprehensive insurance on our car is expiring after one year when we bought the car new.The car is a Toyota Fortuner and to renew the comprehensive will range anything from 34k to 42 k which is a lot. I also believe ... Read More
Monthly budget / expenses by aklokow
Hi AllJust a for a refence check, if some of you can share what you are paying monthly for living expenses, not to pry on the people financial situations, I will try and make it more simplified.We do not have access to the famous stores like ...
@Larry FisherThank you for the monthly budget input very valuable. For me currently at 60k maybe if you start reducing some luxuries you could reduce another 10K but in the end you still need to live and enjoy life within reason. I do not smoke and ... Read More
Monthly budget / expenses by aklokow
Hi AllJust a for a refence check, if some of you can share what you are paying monthly for living expenses, not to pry on the people financial situations, I will try and make it more simplified.We do not have access to the famous stores like ...
@Larry Fisher and DannfinJust be mindful of the pressure setting on these pumps, especially if you have old plumbing, might not be able to handle the pressure and you could end up with internal wall leaks which will show after a long time and then ... Read More
Food - Local or Western by aklokow
Just another open discussion on food, whether you all have adapted to local Philippine cuisine or not.I have not and have a struggle, the food is bland, overcooked and seems that it lacks creativity. Sometimes I feel that it's made quickly that ...
@bigpearlHi Steve i replied to your PM thanks Read More
Food - Local or Western by aklokow
Just another open discussion on food, whether you all have adapted to local Philippine cuisine or not.I have not and have a struggle, the food is bland, overcooked and seems that it lacks creativity. Sometimes I feel that it's made quickly that ...
Hi Skip Scott, very interesting, if i may ask what types of food do you serve and types for delivery. Not to pry but we were thinking of opening a small restaurant which will serve not philippino food bit rather internatiobal style but not gourmet ... Read More
Food - Local or Western by aklokow
Just another open discussion on food, whether you all have adapted to local Philippine cuisine or not.I have not and have a struggle, the food is bland, overcooked and seems that it lacks creativity. Sometimes I feel that it's made quickly that ...
Beautiful day here, no surf only a perfect blue ocean and 9Kw of power going into the system, fully charged and wasting power, perhaps little different.Wow Steve you lucky to jave that harvest from the sun here we struggle as it is rainy season and ... Read More
Food - Local or Western by aklokow
Just another open discussion on food, whether you all have adapted to local Philippine cuisine or not.I have not and have a struggle, the food is bland, overcooked and seems that it lacks creativity. Sometimes I feel that it's made quickly that ...
Good comments on the grammar Steve i think we all make mistakes and as mentioned before English is not my first language.My wife once in a blue moon would fry the small dried fish that also stink a lot, at least she got a little butane stove and she ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Just a comment after talking to a teacher today, basically they will have all children pass whatever grade irrespective of performance because if a school have some failures, they have to do a full reports and analysis, secondly if might reflect ... Read More
Can I return to the Philippines ? by GuestPoster5113
Earlier this year I was in the Philippines and was a victim of extortion and was charged and jailed.6 weeks later I wa freed and the Philippines courts gave me a provisional dismisall.is it safe for me to return to the Philippines.
Thats my point why raise the topic at all its f#%&ed up. Read More
Can I return to the Philippines ? by GuestPoster5113
Earlier this year I was in the Philippines and was a victim of extortion and was charged and jailed.6 weeks later I wa freed and the Philippines courts gave me a provisional dismisall.is it safe for me to return to the Philippines.
Sounds all a bit fishy to me but anyway i will stay out of this topic for now because of my personal feelings. Read More
Home Schooling[B]OT by Lotus Eater
@coach53If have a clear boundry when which language is spoken in which situations, both your and the other kids will be bilingual fast.Coach do you have a clear boundry (sorry boundary) in terms of the written English language?
Gentleman, I think we reach a point where we all have said enough, whether we see it as attacking, insulting, or positive criticism let's take it and move on.English is not my first language as perhaps you all have notice about my spelling and ... Read More
Can I return to the Philippines ? by GuestPoster5113
Earlier this year I was in the Philippines and was a victim of extortion and was charged and jailed.6 weeks later I wa freed and the Philippines courts gave me a provisional dismisall.is it safe for me to return to the Philippines.
I am with Bob here, I think there is more than what meets the eye, and as a father I have serious problems with men and underage girls, but I will leave it that as I do not want to assume anything here, and with the lack of details.Best is stay away ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Thanks Dannfinn, understand, and yes if people continues, I will enjoy reading the comments. Read More
Retirement - Hobbies / Work
Hi All, again another topic just for interest's sake, as I guess most of us are retired here in PH, some rent, some own houses etc. What will be nice is to hear what people do every day with their free time.In my case we are the only house at the ... Read More
Food - Local or Western
Just another open discussion on food, whether you all have adapted to local Philippine cuisine or not.I have not and have a struggle, the food is bland, overcooked and seems that it lacks creativity. Sometimes I feel that it's made quickly that ... Read More
Best dating site to meet a good lady? by bkksaigon
Hi I am planning to move to the PH this summer and I would like to give a try to online dating. I am asking this question because I am not familiar with all the dating sites out there. Can you please share what dating site can be more likely to ...
My boring input, not sure that I want to share every shower, or have my shoelaces tied, or even having her starting the love making.I am perhaps old school but sometimes the shower is where I clear the mind and think about a lot of things, its my ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Hi everyone, I would like to thank you all for your input and comments, it's been really valuable in clarifying things. Also, very good advice from all with great ideas and approaches to a complicated decision and to make the right choices given ... Read More
Monthly budget / expenses by aklokow
Hi AllJust a for a refence check, if some of you can share what you are paying monthly for living expenses, not to pry on the people financial situations, I will try and make it more simplified.We do not have access to the famous stores like ...
Hi Steve yes you right we do not have rent as we own the place, and yes, I know we all are somehow extravagant compared to locals in our habits and choices. The fact also remains that we or at least I are not of Asian origin and would like somehow ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
apologies, suppose to be "I did not mean", spelling right Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Gents I did mean to get these type of reactions / comments on my topic between members, if that is the case then I apologies, not the intention at all.I have read somewhere that English spelling is also changing in the sense to adopt the way we ... Read More
Monthly budget / expenses
Hi AllJust a for a refence check, if some of you can share what you are paying monthly for living expenses, not to pry on the people financial situations, I will try and make it more simplified.We do not have access to the famous stores like ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Hi Bob you make a very important point about having the dedication, ability, training and time. Well in my case I have the time as I am n ot working except the upkeep of the outside part of our subdivision. The challenge for me is the patience, I am ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Very sound advice thanks a lot and appreciate everybodies comments and advice Read More
Best dating site to meet a good lady? by bkksaigon
Hi I am planning to move to the PH this summer and I would like to give a try to online dating. I am asking this question because I am not familiar with all the dating sites out there. Can you please share what dating site can be more likely to ...
Ok Bob get the point and makes sense thanks Read More
Best dating site to meet a good lady? by bkksaigon
Hi I am planning to move to the PH this summer and I would like to give a try to online dating. I am asking this question because I am not familiar with all the dating sites out there. Can you please share what dating site can be more likely to ...
Great replies, I was fortunate to work also in HCMC , Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia etc, basically APAC and yes English was a struggle in many countries, even in the Philippines. I do not want to compare women from any country as we all have our own ... Read More
Dog lovers by aklokow
Just for interest's sake, I shudder to see how dogs are treated here in our province which I think it's pretty much across the Philippines. Keeping dogs in cages outside in the heat and rain just for the sake of having a dog is so cruel. We have a ...
Steve you are spot on I see my dogs as my boys as i have a girl and yes, they are family wherever my nearly 3-year-old goes the Rotti is there and not aggressive at all but possessive on her and my wife as we are his family too,For the mayor i doubt ... Read More
Dog lovers by aklokow
Just for interest's sake, I shudder to see how dogs are treated here in our province which I think it's pretty much across the Philippines. Keeping dogs in cages outside in the heat and rain just for the sake of having a dog is so cruel. We have a ...
Steve you might be right, we went to new friends we made through horse riding and the father was the previous mayor and they have 11 Rottweilers all in small cages I really had to bite myself to contain any comment as they are really good people and ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Great advice thanks Steve, will certainly do that. Read More
Your neighbours in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When you move in the Philippines, relationships with your neighbours can play a vital role in your well-being and integration. Share your experiences of the interactions and routines that punctuate your daily life in the ...
Interesting question for me, we are in a subdivision not so new existing from 2010 but only two houses and one is basically abandoned so it's only us, no neighbours.So I have built a play park, swings, see-saw, climbing ropes, games, volleyball ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Hi Steve thanks for the reply, good insight and what you say makes a lot of sense. Teaching more children is ok for me, the challenge will be the interaction on a play date as she is not yet capable of Tagalog and the kids here are very shy to talk ... Read More
Best dating site to meet a good lady? by bkksaigon
Hi I am planning to move to the PH this summer and I would like to give a try to online dating. I am asking this question because I am not familiar with all the dating sites out there. Can you please share what dating site can be more likely to ...
Just a question to all and please do not get me wrong I am not trying open a can of worms but what is quite interesting that the majority of members are American, and they chose Filipinas and not Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian etc, just wondering why? ... Read More
Dog lovers
Just for interest's sake, I shudder to see how dogs are treated here in our province which I think it's pretty much across the Philippines. Keeping dogs in cages outside in the heat and rain just for the sake of having a dog is so cruel. We have a ... Read More
Home Schooling by aklokow
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ...
Thanks Coach and Moondog for the reply, just to bring some perspective, I have done the TESOL certification to teach F2F and online which includes certification for TEYL, TEOL, TEAL meaning I am qualified for teaching and also approved by DepEd.I ... Read More
Home Schooling
Hi AllJust a check if anyone have kids in school. We are not close to the big cities and close to the high-end private schools. So having said that our daughter is still young only turning 3 soon but we started looking on what we will do for ... Read More
Healthcare by jimsyfert
Hello, I'm Jim, Since American health insurance isn't accepted here...Yet. So that leaves getting an insurance plan here but at 57 everything is pre-existing,or take your chances in Guam. US mainland is just too long to fly due to my metal hip and ...
Just to add to Bigpearl, fully agree with his approach, we did the same I am on PhilHealth for the 17K, additional we purchased from St Peters the funeral package includes everything and we bought the burial land do pretty much that is covered from ... Read More
Building Cost in Philippines by aklokow
Hi AllJust more of a reference check, background here, when we started building our house back in 2019 i negotiated a pricen of PHP 21K / sqm, at that time I thought that was a pretty good deal. However due to Covid we could not be onsite to ...
Hi TalambanThanks for the info appreciated, certainly good input for me to work with. Thanks againAndre Read More
My solar experience - in a video - because no one reads so much text by GoetzPhil
I installed my 4KW plant 18 month ago, upgraded it 6 month ago with a 2nd 10KW battery and just last month upgraded from 4KW to 6KW.Its a video, because I guess even everyone tells so, most of you wont read the 20K text script I prepared for it.So ...
Hi Bruce send me PM Read More
Adapting to the pace of life in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When you move to the Philippines, you may find that the pace of life is different from what you're used to. Shop opening times, working hours, sleep cycles and variations in sunlight can all have an effect on your life in the ...
@Cheryl Hi Cheryl after one year I still struggle with the pace, and behaviour of people. Just a few points without making it too long, driving and the behaviour of drivers, sometimes shocking as they overtake in the most dangerous places. I still ... Read More
Starlink Internet vs local internet by aklokow
Hi AllJust wanted to know if anyone is using Starlink? We decided to get Starlink when they had this special in the philippines of initail price to be 10K less until August. So we got our today, the monthly fee compare to our existing internet is ...
@GoetzPhil Hi thanks for the input, I paid the purchase with my debit card and not credit card as I do not have a credit card and do not want one. The other option to pay will be Maya.The mothly subscription is PHP 3300 now which is 300 more than my ... Read More
Starlink Internet vs local internet by aklokow
Hi AllJust wanted to know if anyone is using Starlink? We decided to get Starlink when they had this special in the philippines of initail price to be 10K less until August. So we got our today, the monthly fee compare to our existing internet is ...
@sandArmando Thanks for the feedback, I am making my own mount as you mentaiomed the mount they have give is a bit of a challenge and the 15 meter cable, I will have to see if I can pull it throught the old internet conduit, I do not want to lay ... Read More
My solar experience - in a video - because no one reads so much text by GoetzPhil
I installed my 4KW plant 18 month ago, upgraded it 6 month ago with a 2nd 10KW battery and just last month upgraded from 4KW to 6KW.Its a video, because I guess even everyone tells so, most of you wont read the 20K text script I prepared for it.So ...
@bigpearl Hi Steve thanks for the reply and info, great help, I will look into the thickness we can use with our ceiling and lay it down. I think the 60 K - 80 K investment is worth it. If i can drop the temp 2 to 3 degrees its worth it less work ... Read More
Building Cost in Philippines
Hi AllJust more of a reference check, background here, when we started building our house back in 2019 i negotiated a pricen of PHP 21K / sqm, at that time I thought that was a pretty good deal. However due to Covid we could not be onsite to ... Read More
Rugby World Cup 2023
Hi do we have any rugby fans out there? If we do perhaps you guys have a streaming site that we could access to watch the games without subscribing to any VPN or streamimg service. I have looked on the internet but so far not lucky, maybe one of you ... Read More
Starlink Internet vs local internet
Hi AllJust wanted to know if anyone is using Starlink? We decided to get Starlink when they had this special in the philippines of initail price to be 10K less until August. So we got our today, the monthly fee compare to our existing internet is ... Read More
My solar experience - in a video - because no one reads so much text by GoetzPhil
I installed my 4KW plant 18 month ago, upgraded it 6 month ago with a 2nd 10KW battery and just last month upgraded from 4KW to 6KW.Its a video, because I guess even everyone tells so, most of you wont read the 20K text script I prepared for it.So ...
@bigpearl Hi Steve, thanks for the reply, fully undertsand your system now thanks. From my side I also do not have ground space for more solar panels, its a bit oif a challenge as our lot size is only 120 sqm. Our house is a double storey, 3 bedroom ... Read More
My solar experience - in a video - because no one reads so much text by GoetzPhil
I installed my 4KW plant 18 month ago, upgraded it 6 month ago with a 2nd 10KW battery and just last month upgraded from 4KW to 6KW.Its a video, because I guess even everyone tells so, most of you wont read the 20K text script I prepared for it.So ...
@bigpearl Hi Steve, it is quite a big system you have and fully agree with you rationale for installing solar.You must have a high consumption to be still grid tied. As i undertsand you have 40 KW of battery storage, that is huge, Suppose the ... Read More
My solar experience - in a video - because no one reads so much text by GoetzPhil
I installed my 4KW plant 18 month ago, upgraded it 6 month ago with a 2nd 10KW battery and just last month upgraded from 4KW to 6KW.Its a video, because I guess even everyone tells so, most of you wont read the 20K text script I prepared for it.So ...
Hi All I have been off this forum for about a year while trying to settle in the Philippines and correcting the errors and blatant poor workmanship on the house we built. We could not be onsite and believed in good faith, well lessons learned anyway ... Read More
Cost of living in the Philippines in 2022 by Cheryl
Hi everyone, Two years after the start of the pandemic, it is time to take stock of the evolution of the cost of living in the Philippines or more specifically, in the region where you live. The idea is to help people get ready for their ...
Hi Moon DogAppreciate your clarification, we also in the province we have built a 3 bedroom house, not as big as yours but good enough for us, that is the wife, bay of 1 year and I. Currently i have my sister in law living there with her husband ... Read More
Cost of living in the Philippines in 2022 by Cheryl
Hi everyone, Two years after the start of the pandemic, it is time to take stock of the evolution of the cost of living in the Philippines or more specifically, in the region where you live. The idea is to help people get ready for their ...
Hi MoondogGood info on the cost, just a question how many members in the household for these costs? I am moving in 5 weeks there and when I did my budget calcs I am close to your numbers in some cases and quite of in others.The groceries for 20K ... Read More
Checklist for leaving and returning to the Philippines. by FindlayMacD
I had a call recently from Bureau of Immigration here in Cagayan De Oro with regard to my application for Motion To Reconsider which was filed in June 2021 as my 3 year stay here would end on August 22nd 2021. My hope was that we could apply for 13a ...
Last comment, can we get a topic that is intellectually stimulating rather than the above which is going in never ending circles. Read More
Checklist for leaving and returning to the Philippines. by FindlayMacD
I had a call recently from Bureau of Immigration here in Cagayan De Oro with regard to my application for Motion To Reconsider which was filed in June 2021 as my 3 year stay here would end on August 22nd 2021. My hope was that we could apply for 13a ...
This is getting really boring, each and every country has its pros and cons, some more and some less but that is what it is, just let it be. Read More
"Philippines to re-open to vaccinated foreign tourists" by Moon Dog
"The Philippines will re-open to fully vaccinated tourists from most countries on February 10 and lift quarantine requirements, officials said Friday, nearly two years after closing its borders to contain the ...
Hi All I want to ask some info please and if I repeat the same topics, I do apologize. We are planning to move to PH end of may for good and retirement, I am married to a Filipino. Now to apply for the SRRV, besides the police clearance, medical, ... Read More
The driving force of your expatriation in the Philippines by Diksha
Hello everybody, Moving abroad, to a destination such as the Philippines, is often the result of careful consideration. It is a major life decision and one that should not be taken lightly as the implications are so diverse. We would like to know ...
Let me add my part, firstly I am a South African, I left South Africa in 2004 to start an expat journey in Saudi Arabia. Although South Africa is a beautiful country, maybe some members have been there, unfortunately over the last few years the ... Read More
Relocating to the Philippines by Parvaze
Hi all - Just a quick introduction. My name is Parvaze, I was born and grew up in Scotland and been living in Southern California, USA for the past 30 years. I'm looking to move to the Philippines by the end of 2022 so currently gathering ...
Hi Steve so you reckon we should go deeper until we hit bedrock? Read More
Relocating to the Philippines by Parvaze
Hi all - Just a quick introduction. My name is Parvaze, I was born and grew up in Scotland and been living in Southern California, USA for the past 30 years. I'm looking to move to the Philippines by the end of 2022 so currently gathering ...
"80 meters to reach water in the Philippines origin rain forest landscapes??!! where water rather often are even ABOVE ground :) (artesic natural wells). I believe the common is less than 7 meters. Many wells in Phils are DIGGED by hand ... Read More
Relocating to the Philippines by Parvaze
Hi all - Just a quick introduction. My name is Parvaze, I was born and grew up in Scotland and been living in Southern California, USA for the past 30 years. I'm looking to move to the Philippines by the end of 2022 so currently gathering ...
Hi Steve its a borehole, they drilled about 80 meters to get to water. Read More
Relocating to the Philippines by Parvaze
Hi all - Just a quick introduction. My name is Parvaze, I was born and grew up in Scotland and been living in Southern California, USA for the past 30 years. I'm looking to move to the Philippines by the end of 2022 so currently gathering ...
"I suppouse they havent told because for them its normal :) Its common with extra high voltage delivered in the grid when it come back from the supplier after a break." :D suppose you right !!! "So if I were you, I would check if ... Read More
Relocating to the Philippines by Parvaze
Hi all - Just a quick introduction. My name is Parvaze, I was born and grew up in Scotland and been living in Southern California, USA for the past 30 years. I'm looking to move to the Philippines by the end of 2022 so currently gathering ...
Thanks Steve for the reply appreciated. Will check with the local water guys. Read More
Relocating to the Philippines by Parvaze
Hi all - Just a quick introduction. My name is Parvaze, I was born and grew up in Scotland and been living in Southern California, USA for the past 30 years. I'm looking to move to the Philippines by the end of 2022 so currently gathering ...
Guys just a few questions, I see in this chat that you are recommending surge arresters, are there power surge issues in PH? We are in the province, although have not moved there yet but have already completed house. Got my sister in law to live ... Read More
Options for Opening a Bank Account without an ACR-I by GuestPoster1402
As the title suggests I need a local bank account and the BI is taking forever to process my 9G visa, I've been told it should be ready by Feb. Not an ideal situation but the decision was made to get me into the country on a 9A visa and apply ...
Hi Bazatt suggest you keep going with HSBC, I have opened my account there remotely no issues at all. If you want I can give you the contact of my account manager in HSBC Makati, maybe that can help speed things up. Read More
Move money from US bank to the Phils... by tpiro
Hey y'all... Planning on my retirement in the Philippines 2022 and if by chance I get the opportunity to purchase a place say for $65k US.. how would one get that $$ over from my US bank to the Phils? Because it will be a while before I can ...
No not stuck here still working here plan to move to Phil's in December Read More
Move money from US bank to the Phils... by tpiro
Hey y'all... Planning on my retirement in the Philippines 2022 and if by chance I get the opportunity to purchase a place say for $65k US.. how would one get that $$ over from my US bank to the Phils? Because it will be a while before I can ...
Just go through HSBC and open an account from abroad, I did from Dubai and still not in Phils, got a PHP and USD account. Read More
What are you missing in the Philippines? by Diksha
Hi everyone, Living in the Philippines, on the long or short run, it is completely normal to feel homesick sometimes. We would like to know what you are missing the most about your home country in the Philippines. Do you miss any aspects of ...
Bob thanks for the Landers tip, additional question any idea if lamb is available in PH? Read More
Build or Buy a house? by 66stryker66
My wife and I both US Citizen (but planning to get dual citizenship) is planning to retire in 3yrs or less at age 58. Also coming with us is my mother. I made up my mind to go back home in Davao, I am planning to either build a house or buy in Eden ...
No that will not be possible, the link shows 4 bedrooms and swimming pool which we do not have and also appears to be bigger than our house. I would guess you lookin at approx 9 to 10 MPHP to built. Read More
Build or Buy a house? by 66stryker66
My wife and I both US Citizen (but planning to get dual citizenship) is planning to retire in 3yrs or less at age 58. Also coming with us is my mother. I made up my mind to go back home in Davao, I am planning to either build a house or buy in Eden ...
I agree, built your own, dont buy. We have completed our 3 bedroom house last year, I applied a Western contract conditions with payment milestones and a 12 month retention fee. Worked out well for us, this includes all fittings, AC, ceiling fans, ... 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.
Try with HSBC, I am opening an account with them online from abroad and you can have choices like a Peso account as well as a USD account. 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 ...
Hi all another question, does anyone have perhaps contacts to reduce the import tax on a vehicle? Currently they quoted me 80% approx of the purchase value which makes no sense to import a vehicle. Read More