Moon Dog
American looking for information about Philippines
Forum posts
974
Contacts
14
About me
American
Speaks English
Registration: 15 June 2021
Lets crack a joke in this stress life by Guest6847
Many of us struggle with stress–at work and in our personal life. Like any problem, stress requires a strategic approach to conquer, or at least manage. Stress is real, but we always have a choice–we can let it consume us or we learn to ...
Three Rednecks were working up on a cell phone tower: Cooter, Ronnie and Donnie. As they start their descent Cooter slips, falls off the tower and is killed instantly. As the ambulance takes the body away, Ronnie says, 'Well, darn, someone should go ... Read More
Lets crack a joke in this stress life by Guest6847
Many of us struggle with stress–at work and in our personal life. Like any problem, stress requires a strategic approach to conquer, or at least manage. Stress is real, but we always have a choice–we can let it consume us or we learn to ...
A frustrated wife buys a pair of crotchless panties in an attempt to spice up her dead sex-life. She puts them on, together with a short skirt and sits on the sofa opposite her husband.At strategic moments she uncrosses her legs ... enough times ... Read More
My First Philippine Funeral by Moon Dog
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ...
@Enzyte Bob Update, just found out May 5th (tomorrow) is the final day! Hallelujah, it's been a long 40 days! I only have to feed the old fat cows 2 more times. I can invite the old woman that has been living here under the radar to go home ... Read More
My First Philippine Funeral by Moon Dog
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ...
@mati_steve I know what you mean. We had those in Houston. One Filipina who goes by Sam would load up. I made a really good brisket and sliced it up nice. It was a big brisket so there was leftovers. Smoking brisket is time concuming to get it ... Read More
My First Philippine Funeral by Moon Dog
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ...
@Enzyte Bob I still have that 40 day thing to look forward to. I have to leave this place. Read More
My First Philippine Funeral by Moon Dog
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ...
Tatay passed on March 27 and it's not over yet. A bunch of women come every afternoon about 3 pm. We hired Cousin Dexter to cook dinner for the group and boy can they eat. Dexter cooks up a big bait and there are no leftovers. It's pretty clear by ... Read More
Lets crack a joke in this stress life by Guest6847
Many of us struggle with stress–at work and in our personal life. Like any problem, stress requires a strategic approach to conquer, or at least manage. Stress is real, but we always have a choice–we can let it consume us or we learn to ...
A blind man was being interviewed for a job as a quality controller at the local wood mill. The manager calls the blind man into his office and asks him how he expected to do this job since he was blind. The blind man replied he would do it by ... Read More
Lets crack a joke in this stress life by Guest6847
Many of us struggle with stress–at work and in our personal life. Like any problem, stress requires a strategic approach to conquer, or at least manage. Stress is real, but we always have a choice–we can let it consume us or we learn to ...
The businessman decided to retire early from his rat race career and realize his lifelong dream of living away from it all. He bought several hundred acres in the wilderness of Montana and built a simple cabin right in the middle of his property. ... Read More
Lets crack a joke in this stress life by Guest6847
Many of us struggle with stress–at work and in our personal life. Like any problem, stress requires a strategic approach to conquer, or at least manage. Stress is real, but we always have a choice–we can let it consume us or we learn to ...
It was the convention of the 2025 World Women's Liberation Conference. The first speaker, a lady from England stood up and said, "During last years' conference we spoke about being more assertive with our husbands. Well, after the conference I went ... Read More
Lets crack a joke in this stress life by Guest6847
Many of us struggle with stress–at work and in our personal life. Like any problem, stress requires a strategic approach to conquer, or at least manage. Stress is real, but we always have a choice–we can let it consume us or we learn to ...
A guy shows up at work Monday morning with a black eye. His work mate asked him what happened?He said, “I was in church yesterday and when we got up to sing I noticed the heavy set lady in front of me had her dress wedged in her butt crack so ... Read More
Lets crack a joke in this stress life by Guest6847
Many of us struggle with stress–at work and in our personal life. Like any problem, stress requires a strategic approach to conquer, or at least manage. Stress is real, but we always have a choice–we can let it consume us or we learn to ...
A man and his wife were scuba diving in the San Francisco Bay when his wife was swept away by the current and gone. The man searched frantically for her but to no avail. Finally he made his way back to shore and called for help.The next day there ... Read More
Pool Paint by Moon Dog
The repairs are completed on our pool and I don't want to use Davies pool paint again. I was checking out Boysen Acqua Epoxy. AI said works on pools. I wrote Boysen and email asking how to apply it and I received a one sentence reply stating Boysen ...
Your link led me to a paint that may work. It's only P248 for 1,200ml so that's a little scary but it has good reviews. Thanks Read More
Pool Paint
The repairs are completed on our pool and I don't want to use Davies pool paint again. I was checking out Boysen Acqua Epoxy. AI said works on pools. I wrote Boysen and email asking how to apply it and I received a one sentence reply stating Boysen ... Read More
Raising kids the local way in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Raising children as an expat in the Philippines means discovering new parenting habits. School routines, discipline, food habits, independence, social life… many things may work differently in the Philippines compared to ...
@CherylWe are adopting a 5 year old boy and his 2 year old sister. We've had the boy since he was 8 months old and the girl since she was 8 weeks. They both speak English only so we can't send them to public school. The private school the boy ... Read More
Onward Ticket by Lat61
If you're not a Filipino Citizen, you can't just fly one way into the Philippines. You need to purchase a roundtrip or onward ticket before flying or you will be left at the gate. Exception to this rule is any children 15 years or younger with their ...
I've taken the trip 7 or 8 times in 20 years and I've never been asked to produce a forwarding ticket. I did buy a throw away ticket once and that was the time I was asked if I had one, but I wasn't asked to produce it. I have the SRRV visa now so ... Read More
Filipinos Can Sleep Anywhere
Woke up the other morning and strolled to the front gate and saw some dude sleeping in the road. Looked like he parked his bike and curled up on the pavement across from the local whorehouse.https://youtu.be/_h7fq6a9lk8 Read More
My First Philippine Funeral by Moon Dog
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ...
@Enzyte BobI was very respectful for Tatay, we had a good relationship. I behaved appropriately and saved my grumblings for the forum. I mentioned that I took the mic and said what a good fellow Tatay was and how he will be missed. He was a good ... Read More
My First Philippine Funeral by Moon Dog
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ...
@Enzyte Bob I didn't know your wife had passed. My condolences. Sounds like you had a well managed service. Read More
My First Philippine Funeral by Moon Dog
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ...
@Agg CoolabahMy issue is trash, cigarette butts, free loaders, undisiplined children and lack of sleep. It wasn't a solemn, respectful event for a well respected man, it was a series of drunken all nighters. If it happens again I'll just leave for 9 ... Read More
My First Philippine Funeral by Moon Dog
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ...
@mati_steve We bought a cheap piece of beach front property with a similar deal. It was ours to use until the government needed it. Only paid P50K for it and Tatay lived there from 2007 to 2013. It was in the direct path of Yolanda. My brother in ... Read More
My First Philippine Funeral
This is my first experience with a Philippine funeral and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. Tatay passed on 3/27 so today is the 9th day but since the priest doesn’t work on Sunday it turned into a 10 day ordeal. Tatay’s ... Read More
How do you use social media while living abroad? by Asaël Häzaq
Hi,For an future article, we'd like to gather your testimonies : how do you use social media? Has your expat life increased the time you spend on Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp, TikTok (and other platforms) ?Of course, expat or not, social media is ...
I'm using social media a lot less here compared to the U.S. I check email and sometimes post on FB before sunrise and before bedtime. It gets busy around here in the day time. Read More
Long Term Stay in PH by RoyHolland
Hi everyone.I’m coming to Cebu from the UK and will be staying four weeks.This is not my first visit to PH as I have visited three times and travelled from Banaue to Cagayan De Oro and many places in between. But my last visit was about twelve ...
@bigpearl Thanks for the welcome back. Been busy fixing everything that broke during my absense so I haven't had much computer time.I was gone for 26 months so I knew the multicab would need a new batery which I ordered but still wouldn't start. ... Read More
Long Term Stay in PH by RoyHolland
Hi everyone.I’m coming to Cebu from the UK and will be staying four weeks.This is not my first visit to PH as I have visited three times and travelled from Banaue to Cagayan De Oro and many places in between. But my last visit was about twelve ...
I did the SRRV on my last visit to the Philippines but it expired while I was in the states. I emailed Thelma and was glad to learn there is a process for renewing long distance for a little over P6K. She sent me forms for fingerprinting and I had ... Read More
My opinion of the US Presidential elections as a US Expat by GuestPoster254
Hi! I'm FilAmericanMom, Elle to my friends. My husband and I have been living here in the Philippines for 17 years, with our two kids who are now teenagers. I said good bye in the past to this forum. But the post regarding our opinion of the ...
Sane washing is a term that is new to me. Sane washing has kept Trump somewhat relevant by only reporting the more rational parts of his speeches and leaving out the crazy bits like immigrants eating pets and post birth abortions. But now that Trump ... Read More
My opinion of the US Presidential elections as a US Expat by GuestPoster254
Hi! I'm FilAmericanMom, Elle to my friends. My husband and I have been living here in the Philippines for 17 years, with our two kids who are now teenagers. I said good bye in the past to this forum. But the post regarding our opinion of the ...
Jack Smith's 165 page brief is just a summary of Trump's crimes to remain in office after losing the election. I've read the first 85 pages and it didn't take long because it is double spaced and there are over 700 footnotes referencing the evidence ... Read More
My opinion of the US Presidential elections as a US Expat by GuestPoster254
Hi! I'm FilAmericanMom, Elle to my friends. My husband and I have been living here in the Philippines for 17 years, with our two kids who are now teenagers. I said good bye in the past to this forum. But the post regarding our opinion of the ...
I was standing in the chow line outside the mess hall in 1972 when stationed in South Korea. There were a couple officers standing to one side checking out the troops. My house boy must have done a good job on my boots and fatigues because they ... Read More
My opinion of the US Presidential elections as a US Expat by GuestPoster254
Hi! I'm FilAmericanMom, Elle to my friends. My husband and I have been living here in the Philippines for 17 years, with our two kids who are now teenagers. I said good bye in the past to this forum. But the post regarding our opinion of the ...
I encourage everyone to read the first 85 pages of Jack Smith's filing. If after reading you still support Trump please schedule an appointment with your doctor. ... Read More
My opinion of the US Presidential elections as a US Expat by GuestPoster254
Hi! I'm FilAmericanMom, Elle to my friends. My husband and I have been living here in the Philippines for 17 years, with our two kids who are now teenagers. I said good bye in the past to this forum. But the post regarding our opinion of the ...
Forget the rambling, incoherent speeches and disastrous plan to impose tariffs on all imported goods which will result in a federal tax for all Americans. Focus for a moment on the blueprint for authoritarianism and Christian nationalism known as ... Read More
My opinion of the US Presidential elections as a US Expat by GuestPoster254
Hi! I'm FilAmericanMom, Elle to my friends. My husband and I have been living here in the Philippines for 17 years, with our two kids who are now teenagers. I said good bye in the past to this forum. But the post regarding our opinion of the ...
This is not a normal election and the fate of America and most likely the fate of the world hangs in the balance, One side promises to imprison those who disagree if elected. The other side promises to give those who disagree a seat at the table. ... Read More
My opinion of the US Presidential elections as a US Expat by GuestPoster254
Hi! I'm FilAmericanMom, Elle to my friends. My husband and I have been living here in the Philippines for 17 years, with our two kids who are now teenagers. I said good bye in the past to this forum. But the post regarding our opinion of the ...
If you consider two things, January 6, 2021 and Project 2025, it is a no brainer.If you need another incentive, Trump's health is in question, consider who would be president should he have a stroke or die. Read More
My opinion of the US Presidential elections as a US Expat by GuestPoster254
Hi! I'm FilAmericanMom, Elle to my friends. My husband and I have been living here in the Philippines for 17 years, with our two kids who are now teenagers. I said good bye in the past to this forum. But the post regarding our opinion of the ...
This is not a normal election and the fate of America and most likely the fate of the world hangs in the balance,One side promises to imprison those who disagree if elected. The other side promises to give those who disagree a seat at the table. It ... 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 ...
@PaveGrancaric If you're on Biliran Island you are no longer in Leyte. Biliran has been an independent province since 1992 and is no longer a sub province of Leyte. My wife and I have a house in the Cabucgayan municipality of Biliran.You're in luck ... Read More
US expats, your opinions about the upcoming presidential elections? by Lotus Eater
The US election is a great way to start arguments about the colour of the idiot you want to vote for. Not many realise the only difference is the type of corruption you want to see from the White House. The US is a plutocracy that appears to be a ...
I’ve learned a new term this election, “sane washing”. Sane washing happens when the news only reports on something from a rambling, incoherent speech that is sane and ignores the crazy parts. That has made Trump look more normal ... 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 ...
In my area of the provinces Brodeth Marketing had the best price on generators. Diesel would be the most economical and probably the most dependable. If I were in the market for a small 3 kw or smaller I would consider gasoline but for a machine ... Read More
US expats, your opinions about the upcoming presidential elections? by Ameerah Arjanee
Hi everyone. I’m a content writer for Expat Magazine, and we are planning on writing an article about what American expats abroad (and non-American expats living in the US) think about the upcoming presidential elections. How do you think the ...
Donald Trump has been rated worst president in U.S. history by the Siena College and the 2014 Presidential Greatness Project. He is a pathological liar. Practically every statement he makes is false. He devised a plan to steal the 2020 election that ... 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 ...
@PaveGrancaricThis is the generator we've been using for almost 3 years. It will run all the lights, TV, 1 1/2 hp and a 1 hp aircon all at the same time with no problem. The water heater puts a load on it but we no longer use the water heater ... Read More
SRRV Expanded Courtesy and Tourist Visa questions by mati_steve
Howdy folks! New user here from Texas, USA. I retired early this year and recently took a 10-day trip to the Philippines (first time) Davao City and Mati City to visit a Filipina I’ve been web conferencing and texting with for a little over ...
@mati_steve Winters can be tough but spring, summer and fall is very nice down here in south WV. I could be happy in the Philippines if we had chosen the property more wisely. When we bought it we were virtually the only house on the road. Now it is ... Read More
SRRV Expanded Courtesy and Tourist Visa questions by mati_steve
Howdy folks! New user here from Texas, USA. I retired early this year and recently took a 10-day trip to the Philippines (first time) Davao City and Mati City to visit a Filipina I’ve been web conferencing and texting with for a little over ...
@Moon DogNice! Thank you very much for the prompt reply. Not sure where I got the 16 months from, but 3 years should be more than enough time. Still contemplating my path forward, but I was pleasantly surprised on my recent visit to the Philippines. ... Read More
SRRV Expanded Courtesy and Tourist Visa questions by mati_steve
Howdy folks! New user here from Texas, USA. I retired early this year and recently took a 10-day trip to the Philippines (first time) Davao City and Mati City to visit a Filipina I’ve been web conferencing and texting with for a little over ...
All you need is your DD214 for the Expanded Courtesy SRRV visa, your rank or duty stations aren't important. You will need to deposit $1,500 in a SRRV account and the cost to apply is $1,400. In order to set up the bank account for the PRA ... Read More
Adoption in the Philippines by Moon Dog
We are adopting a child that will be 3 in November and the adoption process is slow but moving along. We recently decided to adopt his sister who was 1 month old yesterday. According to the social worker we can only adopt one under the new rules. We ...
@Moon Dog hi how was you adoption journey did you able to bring the kid to the US.?how long does it take? -@efredilyIt is going slow. My wife had a face to face interview in September and the social worker visited the house a couple weeks ... Read More
Construction in Cebu by tim00
Hello Everyone,My Wife and I recently purchased a home with plans to renovate it, which include adding an additional floor along with reconfiguring the entire space. Prior to purchasing the home, I consulted with a Structural Engineer to ensure ...
@tim00The house is on Biliran Island. I do visit Cebu on occasion but I'm currently in the US. I'll be back in the Philippines early next year.Did you get in contact with the builder? He goes by JR and was actually born in the barangay where our ... Read More
Construction in Cebu by tim00
Hello Everyone,My Wife and I recently purchased a home with plans to renovate it, which include adding an additional floor along with reconfiguring the entire space. Prior to purchasing the home, I consulted with a Structural Engineer to ensure ...
We used A-Build Construction design and construction services in Cebu.Engr. Romeo C. Aguilon Jr.Principal EngineerCivil Engineer PRC No. 0072167A- Build Constructiona_build88@yahoo.com Read More
Wondering - Korea Air by Erwendo1
Hello everyone and anyone who might have an opinionI'm headed back to see my wife in the Philippines and am exploring ticketing options (I've tried a few) - I heard about Sky Scanner - I checked it out, found prices and then went to Korea Air ...
I flew Korea Air many times, especially when I was working in South Korea. There are a couple things that stand out. One is the frequent flyer miles could only be used for travel. I cashed in over a million Delta and other US airline miles for ... Read More
Online Passport Renewal by Moon Dog
Just received my new passport here in the US that I ordered 11 days ago. It was supposed to take "6 to 8 weeks". The info page is now plastic with some raised characters. I will have to have my SRRV transferred to the new passport next time I'm in ...
@Okieboy That is what I plan to do but if I get the chance I will stop by in Makati and have Mary Rose transfer the SRRV to my new passport. Read More
Hot Water Shower by Bannor
Hello, everyone! What has been your experience with hot water in the shower? I notice many places do not have this amenity. Have you found it necessary for your quality of life, or something you have happily dispensed with?
We have a tankless heater in the master bath but seldom use it. When we used the deep well the water was a little cooler but the municipal water has been upgraded and now reaches the 2nd floor with enough pressure for a shower. Municipal water pipes ... Read More
Car purchases in Philippines by onefogarty
Hey!Anyone know how easy or complicated it is for a foreigner to buy a car in the Philippines? I’m thinking of buying a new SUV like a fortuner or something along those lines. Is vehicle insurance expensive? I’ve heard that if one ...
@ICEMAN ALASKADoesn't really matter to me. Multicabs are very simple vehicles and I can easily fix anything on them and parts are cheap enough. When I returned to the states last December I prearranged the purchase of a 30 year old Ford Ranger ... Read More
Return Ticket Exemptions by Moon Dog
This will be the first time I will enter the Philippines without needing a return ticket. I will be availing of the balikbayan visa. This is stated in article 11 of the BI Travel Requirements: "11. Who are exempt from the return ticket ...
@Moon Dog spoketh: On my next trip I'll be entering as a permanent resident with a SRRV visa. I'm curious if that will exempt me from the forwarding ticket? In two trips with SRRV they never asked us for a return ticket, once at NAIA and the ... Read More
Return Ticket Exemptions by Moon Dog
This will be the first time I will enter the Philippines without needing a return ticket. I will be availing of the balikbayan visa. This is stated in article 11 of the BI Travel Requirements: "11. Who are exempt from the return ticket ...
@Glongshore I know you are not asked for a return ticket when processing through immigration at the NAIA airport. The last time I booked travel to the Philippines I was asked at the Delta counter check-in in Atlanta, GA if I had a return ticket, ... Read More
Bureau of immigration in Tacloban by jcole4455
Anybody use the Bureau of immigration in Tacloban for a tourist visa extension? Did you need an appointment? If so, how did you get your appointment scheduled? Thanks in advance.
@Jes Tal CoulI got the first one at J Centre mall in Cebu and renewed it at the BI in Tacloban City. Now I have a SRRV visa so ACR is no longer needed. Thanks. Read More
Gcash for foreigners[b]imbécilités by Lotus Eater
@Moon DogI understand Cherry Blossoms now accept Maya😁💰
@Lotus Eater I've been using it to pay your mom for her services. -@Moon Dog I hate to say this Moon Dog but you've been scammed. Mum passed away in 2007. -@Lotus EaterI know, I fucked her to death. Read More
Gcash for foreigners[b]imbécilités by Lotus Eater
@Moon DogI understand Cherry Blossoms now accept Maya😁💰
@Lotus Eater I've been using it to pay your mom for her services. Read More
Gcash for foreigners by Glongshore
Do any of you use gcash? their app says only available to philippine citizens, but the app will allow to complete registration just by clicking filipino. wondering if anyone has used gcash, and how it turned out
I lost a hundred bucks using GCash. I prefer Maya. Read More
Social security number and benefits for child by brugmuller
Hi, we received our babies CRBA and USA passport after applying at the Cebu consulate.We didn't receive a social security number yet.I want to apply for our childs social security benefits under my social security benefits I receive here in the ...
@scott1953 hi thanks for sharing this. Im also in the process of putting my son as my beneficiary. You mention your child receive 1/2 of what youre getting. Is that money deducted from your monthly pension or my ss pension wont be affected? ... Read More
Packages from USA to PH by SteveBronx
Hi please tell me if you have any experience or know what's the best way to send packages from USA to Philippines. Please do not say FedEx, DHL, UPS, USPS, I want to know about package places like ones where I can buy things from Amazon and send it ...
If you have an Amazon Prime account there are many items that have free shipping to the Philippines. Even if the item does not have free shipping the shipping costs are very competitive. Air conditioner belts for my multicab model are not available ... Read More
Philippines cellphones at the airport by avedisiandavid
Flying to Angeles City in November, passing through Manila, does the airport in Angeles City sell Philippines cellphones?
My wife's iPhone 14 does have a sim tray, or you can do the esim. She bought the iPhone in the Philippines and it was shipped from Singapore. If you buy the iPhone 14 in the US it is esim only. Read More
Reporting Birth Abroad Cebu Embassy by Fish83
I filled out everything online and paid the $100. Now I'm trying to get an appointment in Cebu. It seems impossible. There's never an open appointment time. I tried waking up at 11:57 and being ready at midnight and I still didn't see any new appt ...
I tried to use the Cebu embassy for notarization and was turned away. I scheduled online but when I arrived the guy told me my appointment was in Manila. I was positive I had selected Cebu in the online appointment scheduler. A short time later I ... Read More
Visa Question by Cyclone Ed
I'm planning on traveling to the Philippines with my US passport. It sounds like I may need to show a return or transit ticket within the 30-day tourist period. What if I plan on getting a 29-day Visa extension and possibly more extensions? Is ...
@Cyclone EdI've never been asked to produce an ongoing ticket. On my last flight I was asked if I had an ongoing ticket but I didn't have to show it. I did actually have a throw away ticket. I will be returning to the Philippines in a few months. I ... Read More
Being reported to authorities so you are barred from entry? by smknjoe2002
I have been to the Philippines twice... I met a girl and fell in love... was amazing!.. but after I came back to the u.s. she became very controlling and angry... wanted more and more money ect... always thinks I'm cheating.... I just can't talk to ...
Lotus Eater said. . . .Then again if you are looking for true love you could try Cherry Blossoms dating site. *********************** Maybe Cherry Bosom's or Swedish Grinder. -@Enzyte BobThere is a gentleman on Grindr who goes by Lotus. Read More
Being reported to authorities so you are barred from entry? by smknjoe2002
I have been to the Philippines twice... I met a girl and fell in love... was amazing!.. but after I came back to the u.s. she became very controlling and angry... wanted more and more money ect... always thinks I'm cheating.... I just can't talk to ...
Rumor has it that Lotus Eater is doing well on Grindr. It's in his handle. Read More
Being reported to authorities so you are barred from entry? by smknjoe2002
I have been to the Philippines twice... I met a girl and fell in love... was amazing!.. but after I came back to the u.s. she became very controlling and angry... wanted more and more money ect... always thinks I'm cheating.... I just can't talk to ...
Never fall in love. Love clouds your decision making process. Loves makes you blind, crazy, stupid. Fall out of love and look at the situation clearly. Read More
Expats who married a filipina by DonRam
The expats who married a filipina. Survey and if any complaints or problems.Ages? Since it's different living in USA culture or western standards. Many don't agree with an elderly male marrying a young filipina. What are your age ...
@DonRamMy first marriage was to an American girl. She was 19 and I was 38. It was not a good marriage, I used to introduce her as my first wife. I then married my present wife who is a Filipina. I was 55 and she was 26. That was 17 years ago and we ... Read More
Most Reliable Way to Send Important Documents to the Philippines by Moon Dog
I have several apostilled documents I will be sending to my wife in the Philippines in a couple weeks for the purpose of adopting a child. Does anyone know of a reliable mail service that does not involve PhilPost? I'm in a remote area of West ...
Moon Dog said. . . . In this case PhlPost blew away USPS and FedEx which is very disappointing. **************************How did FedEx enter into this equation? -@Enzyte BobUSPS ... Read More
Most Reliable Way to Send Important Documents to the Philippines by Moon Dog
I have several apostilled documents I will be sending to my wife in the Philippines in a couple weeks for the purpose of adopting a child. Does anyone know of a reliable mail service that does not involve PhilPost? I'm in a remote area of West ...
Oh ... West Virginia. Do the Whittakers work at the post office? -@jozicaI'm sure they do. A closer look at the tracking details show that my envelope went immediately to Charleston on the same day I mailed it but then spent 19 days at the ... Read More
Most Reliable Way to Send Important Documents to the Philippines by Moon Dog
I have several apostilled documents I will be sending to my wife in the Philippines in a couple weeks for the purpose of adopting a child. Does anyone know of a reliable mail service that does not involve PhilPost? I'm in a remote area of West ...
A little update on the Global Express Guaranteed envelope I sent to the adoption attorney. I mailed it directly to the attorney in Tacloban City, Leyte from the Rupert, WV post office on May 10, 2024 at a cost of $111.65 postage with a "guaranteed" ... Read More
Transfer large amount of money us to PI's by Prince James
Greetings in Naval Biliran Letey from US to visit wifes family. Wife of 18 years wants to buy family 3 ha coconut farm with her money. What is the best way to transfer US $20,000 from US to Pi's. The family does have a BPI account here and are ...
@Prince JamesJust a side note from someone who built a house on Biliran Island. Up until 1992 Biliran was a sub-province of Leyte. In 1992 Biliran became an independent province so the location you mention is Naval, Biliran not Naval, Biliran, ... Read More
Most Reliable Way to Send Important Documents to the Philippines by Moon Dog
I have several apostilled documents I will be sending to my wife in the Philippines in a couple weeks for the purpose of adopting a child. Does anyone know of a reliable mail service that does not involve PhilPost? I'm in a remote area of West ...
This time I sent the papers using USPS Global Express Guaranteed. I sent it on May 10 with a delivery date of May 18 at a cost of $111. It is now May 22 and no one knows the whereabouts of the envelope. Read More
Where to stay to avoid any kind of Vermin etc by Louiis88@
Where in Phil to stay If you hate any kind of vermin?
@LEONTHOMWALTHOMPSONPlenty of pork and chicken. There is also beef that is not bad if you know how to cook it. Read More
Retiring with family to philippines by Gregsdigitalpics
Just really looking for pointers. My wife is Filipino. We have two children ages 5 and 8 and plan to retire in late 2026. i plan to buy (in my wife’s name) a piece of property in Dumaguete, build a nice house. Have trusted contractors already ...
We sent the little 3 year old boy we're adopting to the local private preschool. The mayor's grandson was the only other child in his class. The class is taught in English which is good since our boy only speaks English, and he speaks it very well. ... Read More
Using Maya by jcole4455
My wife and I are from California, we spend 5 to 6 months every year in the Philippines. We are currently in Southern Leyte where we have a small home. As we travel we are running into places that do not accept ATM/DEBIT/ VISA/MASTERCARD. They only ...
I use Maya quite often but it is not linked to any of my bank accounts. I usually fund it with Western Union which surprisingly usually has the best exchange rate. I sometimes use Remitly also. I do have it linked to my Lazada Wallet and that works ... Read More
Crimes of moral turpitude by karpingary69
Philippines law says they won't allow a passported visitor with a conviction for crimes of moral turpitude.What are those crimes.Do they enforce it for a 14 day visit.I have a passport and tickets for a 14 day stay.I have a felony conviction for ...
@selenamarie7852 What sort of crime of moral turpitude did your bf commit? Moral turpitude is not a crime in itself, as far as I know, but describes a reprehensible or dishonest act. I know that child molesters are being denied entry. Any less ... Read More
13A Visa Requirements Entering the Philippines First time by Dwolf4372
Have a question regarding entering the Philippines with a 13A Visa for the first time. I acquired my Visa through a Embassy in The US. Do I need to buy a ticket that takes me out of the country or will the allow you to enter on a one way ticket.
Technically you may not need an onward ticket but you may have difficulty explaining that to the person checking you in for your flight.From the Philippine consulate:"PHILIPPINE VISA POLICYNo visa required for a stay not exceeding thirty (30) days. ... Read More
Adoption in the Philippines by Moon Dog
We are adopting a child that will be 3 in November and the adoption process is slow but moving along. We recently decided to adopt his sister who was 1 month old yesterday. According to the social worker we can only adopt one under the new rules. We ...
@Moon Dog The single best source is the American Citizenship & Immigration Services at https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/apply-for-citizenship -@Skip ScottThat link is useless. I've written 4 emails over the past month without a single ... Read More
Adoption in the Philippines by Moon Dog
We are adopting a child that will be 3 in November and the adoption process is slow but moving along. We recently decided to adopt his sister who was 1 month old yesterday. According to the social worker we can only adopt one under the new rules. We ...
The adoption process is grinding on, slowly. Every time I complete an apostilled document the social worker says something like "oh yeah, you need this one also" and so it goes. I had to get my ex-wife's death certificate from Maryland and since my ... Read More
House design and plan in Philippines - Charges by roycherian
Hello Folks,I am curious to know what will be a reasonable charges for a good designer or architect to create a house plan / design for approx. 70 Sqm in Philippines Inclusions: I. Architectural Design (Signed and Sealed) a. Site Development Plan b. ...
I sketched a 75 sq. meter bungalow and ran it by the foreman that built our 200 sq. meter two story house. The foreman made a few changes and drew up the bill of material for us to order. We tried to get away with no permit but we got busted and had ... Read More
Wait Until I'm in the Phils to Apply for SRRV? by voyager39
I'm posting to verify an understanding I got from an internet site somewhere. I read that the best approach for pursuing an SRRV visa is to arrive in the Phils on a tourist visa, and to to apply for the SRRV once in-country. The stated reasons ...
@mprendivilleThe only apostilled documents I was asked for were my proof of income and my DD214. In my case I did not have an apostilled copy of either document so I had to have a notarized sworn statement of truth from the US Embassy which works ... Read More
Most Reliable Way to Send Important Documents to the Philippines by Moon Dog
I have several apostilled documents I will be sending to my wife in the Philippines in a couple weeks for the purpose of adopting a child. Does anyone know of a reliable mail service that does not involve PhilPost? I'm in a remote area of West ...
I have to send additional documents to my wife so I'm looking at using Global Express Guaranteed (GXG). I did get a quote from FedEx a while back and I believe it was around $160. According to what I read on the USPS website GXG partners with FedEx ... Read More
House security by tempcinamdar
I will not be living in a gated community with 24/7 guards on the premises.How do I prevent burglars from taking my "stuff" from my rental home? In Texas when a burglar enters your home you have the legal right to use your Glock. All helpful input ...
I've known my wife and her family for about 18 years and in that time there has been nothing stolen from any of the properties they've lived on. Also during that time there has never been a time when the properties were vacated. No matter what we ... Read More
Remitly vs Xoom: Which one is better? by Inthisfate
Which one do you use for sending money from the US to PH, is it Remitly or Xoom? What do you think of Wise transfer? Please enlighten me on which one is the best option. My employer is from the US and he was complaining about the fees taken by ...
@Moon Dog Oh ok. So xoom charged $4.99 plus 2k on the back end. Remitly charged about 1.7k. Geez, wonder what they charge now. That's a lot. $1000 USD was about 49.9-50k back then. -@nickfisher0640"plus 2k on the back end"I don't know what ... Read More
Remitly vs Xoom: Which one is better? by Inthisfate
Which one do you use for sending money from the US to PH, is it Remitly or Xoom? What do you think of Wise transfer? Please enlighten me on which one is the best option. My employer is from the US and he was complaining about the fees taken by ...
@Moon Dog Y'all must be Aussies. Otherwise that would be horrible. $1000 USD is 55,533 PHP. If I send $1000 through MoneyGram to my wife's account from my debit card and deposit it through her debit card the total for me is $1001.99 ... Read More
Foreign driver license conversion by Filamretire
So I'm in Philippines now and have 90 days to use my US driver license. I want to convert it but need ACR-I card. I am on balikbayan one year visa. Went to immigration and they wont give me an ACR -I card since I have one year on visa. I said I will ...
@danfinnNot so bad here in the province, but still dangerous. If you have a lick of sense you will probably be alright. Check out this guy who tried to pass me on the right when I was turning right with my right turn signal on. The bike was showing ... Read More
Foreign driver license conversion by Filamretire
So I'm in Philippines now and have 90 days to use my US driver license. I want to convert it but need ACR-I card. I am on balikbayan one year visa. Went to immigration and they wont give me an ACR -I card since I have one year on visa. I said I will ...
@danfinn No worries, she bought a Rusi Rush and was going to learn to ride it. She started by practicing on my electric scooter in the front yard but there was a minor accident, her knee was scraped, she gave up the idea and donated the Rusi to our ... Read More
Foreign driver license conversion by Filamretire
So I'm in Philippines now and have 90 days to use my US driver license. I want to convert it but need ACR-I card. I am on balikbayan one year visa. Went to immigration and they wont give me an ACR -I card since I have one year on visa. I said I will ...
@Moon Dog which office? -@nickfisher0640The Carigara office in Leyte. It is famous locally for being lenient. I could have went to Naval and saved an hour of driving time but probably would have been turned away for not having my ACR card ... 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 ?
@danfinn "Obtaining the SRRV resets your last VISA entry date."That must be the reason I wasn't asked to pay. I only acquired the SRRV visa a month or two before my departure. 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 ?
I was in the Philippines for 2 1/2 years, acquired a SRRV Expanded Courtesy visa during that time and paid no tax or fee when departing. 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 ...
What size aircon would be needed for a 4 metre room -@renegadesric529The room is 4 sq. meters? That's about the size of a jail cell. Our bedroom is about 12 sq. meters, 3 times as big and a 1 hp cools it fine. If your 12 sq. meter room has ... Read More
Expat opinion, English language skills, increasing or otherwise? by Col Rootentoot
(Writer's opinion .. maybe depends upon age?)"In Philippines, falling English standards spark calls for film, TV dubbing ban"The call comes after international studies show many Philippine students fare poorly in English reading comprehension and ...
@danfinnCebuano and Waray are the languages spoken in my area. Cebuano is a major language, but not an official language."There are two official languages in the Philippines—Filipino and English. Filipino which is based on Tagalog, is the ... 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 ...
@danfinn That may have been the term the mechanic used. It is like the term "brown out" I've heard so much in reference to power interruptions. When I was stationed in Korea back in the 70s we had brown outs. In the evening when the clubs in the ... Read More
Expat opinion, English language skills, increasing or otherwise? by Col Rootentoot
(Writer's opinion .. maybe depends upon age?)"In Philippines, falling English standards spark calls for film, TV dubbing ban"The call comes after international studies show many Philippine students fare poorly in English reading comprehension and ...
English is one of the two official languages of the Philippines. We are adopting our nephew who is 3 years old and speaks English very well. People who hear him talk use the term "slang" to describe his pronunciation meaning he does not have a ... 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 ...
@danfinn He is probably talking about push rods. A single cylinder overhead valve engine will have two push rods. If you look up "push rods" on Lazada you will find a bunch in the P150 price range he spoke of. Push rods seldom fail so if one was "a ... Read More
Most Reliable Way to Send Important Documents to the Philippines by Moon Dog
I have several apostilled documents I will be sending to my wife in the Philippines in a couple weeks for the purpose of adopting a child. Does anyone know of a reliable mail service that does not involve PhilPost? I'm in a remote area of West ...
The envelope finally arrived. I sent it on February 12th and it arrived on March 3rd, almost 3 weeks. Priority Mail Express International is not priority or express once PHLPost gets their hands on it. Cost was $75.55 for USPS to send it and the ... 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 FisherWe have a Daiden 7000 diesel which is rated at 6000 running watts. It handles all appliances, TVs, a 3/4 hp well pump and 2 1/2 hp worth of air-conditioning. It doesn't like it when the water heater kicks in when it already has a good ... 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 ...
Since I left Jovy has had screens installed in the windows and isn't running the aircon in the daytime. She turns on the ground floor 1.5 hp unit at night and sleeps on the ground floor. The last bill was just over P7,000 at a P14 per Kwh rate. I ... Read More
Visa and retirement by alanhamer68
Hi just need some confirmation about visa rules for the Philippines I have a prison conviction for drug dealing in the late 80s any help and idea with my chances many thanks
I mentioned that people with a criminal history of child sexual abuse are being turned back at NAIA and Mactan-Cebu International Airport so if you have that sort of record chances are slim that you will be allowed in the Philippines. I don't know ... Read More
Visa and retirement by alanhamer68
Hi just need some confirmation about visa rules for the Philippines I have a prison conviction for drug dealing in the late 80s any help and idea with my chances many thanks
Drug dealing is a gray area, I don't know if that would come up or not. Section 29 of the Philippine Immigration Act prohibits "persons who have been convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude" from entering the Philippines. Is drug dealing a ... Read More
Last Walk Around the Property by Moon Dog
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o87dbHFoNJ0
Video with a slide show of house construction and a tour by my wife, Jovy. She is the landscaper and gardener. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gtfRrYPbH8U Read More
Most Reliable Way to Send Important Documents to the Philippines by Moon Dog
I have several apostilled documents I will be sending to my wife in the Philippines in a couple weeks for the purpose of adopting a child. Does anyone know of a reliable mail service that does not involve PhilPost? I'm in a remote area of West ...
I received updated tracking info this morning stating the envelope is at the "delivering post office". Looks like PhlPost has it now, so that is not good news. It took 7 days to get that far so if it is delivered today it will be close to the "4-7 ... 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?
@blacksheepjunoThanks for that info. Where did you go to pay it?I had a bit of a conversation with the lady who stamped my passport. She looked over the SRRV page and asked me for my SRRV ID card. Maybe she was the one to check for the payment ... 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?
@pnwcyclistProbably, but I didn't have to pay anything. Do you think I was supposed to pay but it was overlooked somehow? To whom would I have paid it? Read More
New insect friends by kevinwood
Hi,I'm looking for some advice, we have just got our new home in La Union and were infested with small ants, can anyone suggest any tried and trusted methods to get rid of these little guys?ThanksKevin
@kevinwoodI use Green Leaf Powder Ant Killing Bait. Sprinkle a little in their path and problem solved in an hour. Order on Lazada. Read More