Larry Fisher
American looking for information about Philippines
Forum posts
637
Contacts
4
About me
American
Registration: 02 October 2022
US Direct File won't happen in 2026, IRS tells states by PalawOne
Perhaps of interest .."Direct File won’t happen in 2026, IRS tells states"By Natalie Alms November 4, 2025https://www.nextgov.com/digital-government/2025/11/direct-file-wont-happen-2026-irs-tells-states/409309/The free service that allowed ...
@Enzyte Bob If you have no income you're not required to file. Being an expat has ZERO, ZIP, NADA, NOTHING to do with it.Social Security retirement benefits is INCOME. Military retirement is INCOMEDisability is INCOMEYou may not be required to PAY ... Read More
Philippines overall tariff's reduced to 6.3 on exports to USA??? by Enzyte Bob
I saw Youtube videos that claim Marcos has made a deal with Trump administration that will reduces the overall tariffs to 6.3% on Philippine exports.They further claim some countries within the SEA with higher tariffs will move their manufacturing ...
I just paid 27% on an IMPORT from USA. Computer graphics card. $780 on Amazon, $988 delivered. And it was still $120 usd less than buying from a vendor in the Philippines. Read More
SSA social security by Sumomaster2004
Does anyone have My social security app here in PI?
I use a desktop computer to log in. Not an app. But I have little need to go there except maybe look at what the next raise may be in October for 2026. Read More
Hmm .. is this different from Russian missles on Cuba? by PalawOne
Don't know what's right, but ...Wondering how this is any different from Russian missiles in Cuba?https://www.defenseone.com/threats/2025/03/the-d-brief-march-26-2025/404058/Beijing hates the Typhon missile launcher Biden sent to the Philippines. ...
@PalawOne Ahh, but the cruise missilies installed can be nuclear and have been for years. Right, however nobody, even China expects the Philippine strategic deployment to be for a first nuclear strike. Many missile systems can be fitted with nuclear ... Read More
Tariffs for Everyone by mugtech
Saw the amount for Philippines goods going into the USA is 17%. I know some clothing gets shipped to the USA. Wonder what other products are involved. Saw the rate for Vietnam is 46%, supposedly they had about $100 billion worth of ...
@Larry Fisher That increase in CPI will directly affect those of us on Social Security with larger checks in 2026. Possibly higher increase than the inflation rate for the Philippines? I guess will have to wait till Oct to find out. Don’t ... Read More
Tariffs for Everyone by mugtech
Saw the amount for Philippines goods going into the USA is 17%. I know some clothing gets shipped to the USA. Wonder what other products are involved. Saw the rate for Vietnam is 46%, supposedly they had about $100 billion worth of ...
@danfinn So I did some checkin on your checkin. According to All American.org, Westinghouse isn't on their list of American made W/D's. In fact NONE are wholly USA made. Many parts come from other countries and of the four brands, they're only ... Read More
Tariffs for Everyone by mugtech
Saw the amount for Philippines goods going into the USA is 17%. I know some clothing gets shipped to the USA. Wonder what other products are involved. Saw the rate for Vietnam is 46%, supposedly they had about $100 billion worth of ...
I believe the number for China was being set at 54% tariff. Based on a few articles I've seen. This of course will be the most explosive to inflationary costs to people living in the USA. Next would be Mexico and Canada as they're the next largest ... Read More
Contacting social security ?? by Mepp7777
Is anyone having a huge problem getting answers from our FBU office at the Embasy ? I can't get through on phon lines as they never answer and after on hold some time I get disconnected. I call back and the same thing happens. After trying on the ...
Email the embassy, you'll receive a phonecall, with instructions on what to do. - @codyamador1984 in a few months. 😅 Read More
Seeking Experienced Filipino Nanny – Direct Hire by GuestPoster637
Hi everyone,We are an American family living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, looking for a dedicated Filipino nanny for a direct-hire position.While there are many recruitment agencies here, we’ve had bad luck with candidates, especially due to the ...
@mugtech While I don't disagree with you. This is an American family. I haven't been to Saudi since the mid 80's. And even then it was just to a port. We couldn't even step off the gangway onto the dock. Now I'm no fan of SA by any stretch, but ... Read More
The Serenity Prayer by mugtech
God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot changeThe courage to change the things I canAnd the wisdom to know the differenceGood way to start every day here in the Philippines. As a guest, a whole lot of accepting going on.
@mugtech Newcomer Read More
Contacting social security ?? by Mepp7777
Is anyone having a huge problem getting answers from our FBU office at the Embasy ? I can't get through on phon lines as they never answer and after on hold some time I get disconnected. I call back and the same thing happens. After trying on the ...
@Mepp7777 Unlike danfinn whom chooses to put everything as a political rant, I choose to actually handle my issue. I too had the very same experience with Manil FBU/SSA contact. So, thanks to a person on this forum I was given the direct line US ... 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 ...
I've never been to Providence. But I'm on the other side of the island from you. Read More
Terminate part B medicare by dustyme47
Hello, has anyone here in the Philippines ever terminated their part B medicare ? If so can you please tell me how you did it, I've tried using the u.s embassy in the Philippines but they don't ever answer their phones and don't reply to my ...
The money spent going to Guam to cancel part B could be used in going for medical treatment instead. - @Enzyte Bob In 3 months of not having Medicare Part B deducted from your social security you're money ahead for your medical treatment in the ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Hey, lets get a Harvard Business School grad, venture capitalist, that's never been in the Navy or military to be Secretary of the Navy. But he is a Republican mega donor! - @Larry Fisher @danfinn Hey I'm just wondering. Why is it you make no ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Hey, lets get a Harvard Business School grad, venture capitalist, that's never been in the Navy or military to be Secretary of the Navy. But he is a Republican mega donor! Read More
how much i can earn with raise a pig by giovannigio
i would like to ask expat people if someone know, how much it is possible to earn if i buy a baby pig for 1500, o 2500 php and then raise it , and then sell it when it is 100 kilo? thanks
I should have mentioned. The piggery is all hers. One hundred percent. She was doing it, albeit smaller with less success. I only added some to enlarge it just a little, add the bio-gas, and connected her with top breeding rather than the usual ... Read More
how much i can earn with raise a pig by giovannigio
i would like to ask expat people if someone know, how much it is possible to earn if i buy a baby pig for 1500, o 2500 php and then raise it , and then sell it when it is 100 kilo? thanks
We are not large. That's only 4 sows. But we had four births very close together over about a 6 week period. There's a larger, unprofitable piggery that just has to do it "their way" that is buying piglets to fatten and sell about 120 at a time not ... Read More
how much i can earn with raise a pig by giovannigio
i would like to ask expat people if someone know, how much it is possible to earn if i buy a baby pig for 1500, o 2500 php and then raise it , and then sell it when it is 100 kilo? thanks
We remain profitable in our piggery. Sold 21 piglets to others to raise because we were already at max capacity for fattening. Sold those 24 fatteners over a two week period to the meat shop. Avg slaughter weight (dressed) was right at 100 kilos. ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Larry Fisher said. . . .So, it's been how many days exactly and two of "smartest president ever"s nominations are already out? Breaking records that guy is. Massive achievements. **************************************He hasn't broken the record of: ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Point being, these are the people "your guy" is choosing to help run the country? Really? Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Larry Fisher Anyone can be accused of a crime without a thread of evidence being presented. In the last case the Justice Department declined to press charges! If you haven’t learned by now that most of these charges are politically ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Lol Rrump the Lord you're referring too? 😅 - @Larry Fish I hope I haven't been overestimating your gravitas Larry but f you do think like a lightweight, I can respect that. No, it is not literally a religious meaning.. - @danfinn It's quite ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Lol Rrump the Lord you're referring too? 😅 Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Larry Fisher said. . . .So, it's been how many days exactly and two of "smartest president ever"s nominations are already out? Breaking records that guy is. Massive achievements. ************************************** He hasn't broken the record ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
So, it's been how many days exactly and two of "smartest president ever"s nominations are already out? Breaking records that guy is. Massive achievements. Read More
Dept. of Government Efficiency - moved from: Philippinesforum by Fred by Enzyte Bob
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will be in charge of the D.o.G.EThere are 2.8 million bureaucrats and during Covid 19, 80% of them did Telework (working at home). Forty percent of them have not returned to work. So that means over 1,000,000 are at ...
Larry Fisher said. . . . .So anyone that works for the federal government is a bureaucrat? Fire em all! Ohhh wait....Secret service, Treasury, Border Patrol, Customs, Immigration, ATF, DEA. Yea fck it just fire them too, get efficient. Right Bob? ... Read More
U.S. Philippines Ambassador warns of deportation under Trump by PalawOne
Philippine ambassador warns of mass deportation under TrumpBy Cristina Chi - Philstar.com November 8, 2024 | 12:51pmhttps://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/11/08/2398606/philippine-ambassador-warns-mass-deportation-under-trumpPhilippine ambassador ...
At what point in time was it decided that living in the US was a "human right"? As seasoned expats, I'm sure most of us are aware of the repercussions of being in contravention of our host country's immigration laws. - @Aidan in HCMCThat's OK ... Read More
U.S. Philippines Ambassador warns of deportation under Trump by PalawOne
Philippine ambassador warns of mass deportation under TrumpBy Cristina Chi - Philstar.com November 8, 2024 | 12:51pmhttps://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/11/08/2398606/philippine-ambassador-warns-mass-deportation-under-trumpPhilippine ambassador ...
Larry said: “ohh I get it, so they're going to ask illegal aliens if they are criminals or not then deport. No, wait. They're going to scour the internet for criminal illegal aliens, then go getem. Overstays are a last priority. hmmm... wasn't ... Read More
Terminate part B medicare by dustyme47
Hello, has anyone here in the Philippines ever terminated their part B medicare ? If so can you please tell me how you did it, I've tried using the u.s embassy in the Philippines but they don't ever answer their phones and don't reply to my ...
Here's the link to the thread I started on the subject: https://www.expat.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=1083284 Read More
my personal motorcycle shipped from USA, Los Angeles area to Manila by lookingglas2
heard bad stories about trying to ship a bike from USA to Philippines. Who as info for me. just want the most important, how much does it cost, how long does it take, and how long to get here.
There is 100% tax on vehicles - @Okieboy This. Unfortunately not worth it to bring your bike over. But you can buy a 113c.i. lowrider here from the dealer for $20k usd or so. But then where can you really twist the throttle and enjoy it? Read More
Terminate part B medicare by dustyme47
Hello, has anyone here in the Philippines ever terminated their part B medicare ? If so can you please tell me how you did it, I've tried using the u.s embassy in the Philippines but they don't ever answer their phones and don't reply to my ...
@dustyme47 I just did it this month. Look for my thread explaining it all. TLDR: Book a RT to Guam. Go to office, 20 mins later it's done. Fly back. Net cost plan on $600 maybe more depending on hotel, food, etc....Taxis are HUGE expensive. $25 for ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Larry Fisher For plagiarism? - @Aidan in HCMC You're grasping at straws now buddy. Read More
U.S. Philippines Ambassador warns of deportation under Trump by PalawOne
Philippine ambassador warns of mass deportation under TrumpBy Cristina Chi - Philstar.com November 8, 2024 | 12:51pmhttps://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/11/08/2398606/philippine-ambassador-warns-mass-deportation-under-trumpPhilippine ambassador ...
@Enzyte Bob While I understand the basis for "stay in Mexico" policy, that is not how our immigration law is written. Obviously you're speaking of LEGAL immigration. Which includes asylum seekers. If they're applying for status, they are in-fact, ... Read More
U.S. Philippines Ambassador warns of deportation under Trump by PalawOne
Philippine ambassador warns of mass deportation under TrumpBy Cristina Chi - Philstar.com November 8, 2024 | 12:51pmhttps://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/11/08/2398606/philippine-ambassador-warns-mass-deportation-under-trumpPhilippine ambassador ...
At what point in time was it decided that living in the US was a "human right"? As seasoned expats, I'm sure most of us are aware of the repercussions of being in contravention of our host country's immigration laws. - @Aidan in HCMC Nobody, Dems ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
...The trouble with trying to have a sensible political debate with die hard Trump MAGA's has been described as trying to play chess with a pigeon, just like the pigeon, the Trump devotee will eventually kick over all the chess pieces and shit on ... Read More
U.S. Philippines Ambassador warns of deportation under Trump by PalawOne
Philippine ambassador warns of mass deportation under TrumpBy Cristina Chi - Philstar.com November 8, 2024 | 12:51pmhttps://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/11/08/2398606/philippine-ambassador-warns-mass-deportation-under-trumpPhilippine ambassador ...
@thedfords Correct, they will go after the Ilegal aliens who have been pouring over the border for the last 4 years. Criminals first then everyone else. Overstays and other immigrants are a last priority. It’s about time the USA secures its ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Seems you're in denial Morg. An intervention is possibly the only solution. Below are the numbers for the Trump presidency 2016-2020.The economy lost 2.7 million jobs. The unemployment rate increased by 1.7 percentage points to 6.4%.Paychecks grew ... Read More
Relocating to the Philippines from America by airforvet
I am a Veteran and plan on moving to the Philippines in January. I am single and trying to decide if Manilla or Cebu would be best. I am looking to live in a modern high rise building. Can someone lend some insight? Is there a particular high rise ...
@RetiredTrucker13, I sold my truck 30 days before moving here too.I'm outside of the city, about 2.5 hours south of Cebu City. Some caveats, I was already with a woman here who owned her own home on a 700+ Sqm plot out in the province. She was ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@danfinn Head in the sand, you won't be laughing in 3 years when everything is worse than before and you're blaming the "libs". Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Enzyte Bob I want to read. Commas and everything to get the full context. Context actually means something and comes from whole sentences combined together on a subject/topic. Then I have something to argue! Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
PalawOne said. . . . < > ********************************** Would you try to cut and paste from an unbiased source. . .. . better yet post your own opinion Use Cliff Notes as an example in how to post. - @Enzyte Bob And therein lies the ... Read More
Dept. of Government Efficiency - moved from: Philippinesforum by Fred by Enzyte Bob
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy will be in charge of the D.o.G.EThere are 2.8 million bureaucrats and during Covid 19, 80% of them did Telework (working at home). Forty percent of them have not returned to work. So that means over 1,000,000 are at ...
So anyone that works for the federal government is a bureaucrat? Fire em all! Ohhh wait....Secret service, Treasury, Border Patrol, Customs, Immigration, ATF, DEA. Yea fck it just fire them too, get efficient. Right Bob? Right Elon? Ok ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
El oh el, China just removed tax benefits for Aluminum exports and Aluminum prices skyrocketed 8.5% overnight. Prices are going up! Trumpflation is starting even before he's in office.You get what you vote for. Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
@danfinn*** did I ever ask for your dissertation on costs and why I shouldn't cancel? I'm a grown man . And probably with better analytical skills than you think. I also know how to face reality quite well. But hey, you go take part in whatever dafk ... Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
Cliff Spark commented . . . . You know, in the States they say they just want to make sure you are aware of the consequences. **************************************** One consequence if later you want to rejoin there is a $$$ penalty. - @Enzyte Bob ... Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
Wow danfinn, you sure are deep into other expat's finances. And to have all these medical costs down pat. I know someone else who rambles off stuff like it's reality. Bro, after what the US healthcare system with Medicare Part B included did to my ... Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
@Cliff Spark 1. There is a form. Requiring an inked signature. Not an online request.2. Have you tried mailing to a Social Security P.O. box in the states? DHL, FedEx, UPS do not deliver to P.O. boxes. So in what year would you expect said form to ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@danfinn Hey, answer me this one question. Over the last 24 years exactly which administration(s) put together a real infrastructure bill and passed it? All the while, EVERY SINGLE ADMINISTRATION has said they were going to do that, INCLUDING Donald ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Larry Fisher how exactly do you think increased tariffs and personal income taxes eliminated will reduce the FEDERAL DEBT? It has been clear since the JFK administration that tax cuts when done correctly will spur economic growth which itself can ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Mepp7777 Mepp, how exactly do you think increased tariffs and personal income taxes eliminated will reduce the FEDERAL DEBT? The reality friend is a massive increase in fed debt coupled with massive inflation on almost everything you buy on a ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Enzyte Bob, @Fred, Neither of your posts have anything to do with the question I posed. It wasn't about H-D. It was about an example of a specific targeted tariff vs mass tariffs at industry we don't even have in the USA anymore. Edit: though ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
We absolutely don't agree on "better" motorcycles. They are different by design. And the quality is FAR better than you make it out to be. They are not 1977 motorcycles anymore. NONE of which as f-all to do with how and why the ONE tariff was ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Larry Fisher Your lack of education is showing. Do Larry, you really ought not to shoot from the hip. You have no idea how much education I may have but, sure, we can compare credentials if education level is so important to you. Failing that, I ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Fred Before the math, let me give a little TRUE story about a particular Tariff that actually was extremely beneficial. I will not have the years correct, as I'm not looking it up. I'm going by memory because I was so closely involved in the ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@bigpearl You know Tesla solar panels are Chinese made ya? Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Fred So what I suggest is we look at HISTORY rather then rhetoric. It also doesn't take a masters degree in economics to understand if one just keeps it simple to the math. We first need to understand however, that the main "theory" and the one ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Lotus Eater Wow now we are down to insults! Pretty typical for Libs when they run out of substance! - @Morgacj200424 where is the insult?I actually have LOTS of substance to add to the conversation. But I chose to ask a question to which NOBODY ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
I find it very interesting that we have all these people talking about how great tariffs are. But not a single one of you has responded to my post #19. Economic geniuses abound. yes, I know I'm pissing some off. I really don't care. My goal is to ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
I find it very interesting that we have all these people talking about how great tariffs are. But not a single one of you has responded to my post #19. Economic geniuses abound. yes, I know I'm pissing some off. I really don't care. My goal is to ... Read More
Typhoon frequency. by bigpearl
Well I've been counting/watching. The third one is now out in the China sea,,,,,, 3 in 3 or 4 weeks and tracking windy we have another going to hit the north east coast of Luzon on Monday followed by another probably on Friday/Saturday morning,,,,, ...
You can argue all you want about the cause(s) and make ZERO effing progress for our children's futures. Or you can embrace that WHILE we're still using the hell out of fossil fuels we CAN MAKE PROGRESS to a cleaner future. How many idiots here ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
@Enzyte Bob Here's an interesting China-Philippines related thing to think about. While Pogos began their operation in the Philippines in 2003, they went vigorous starting in 2016 when the administration of then President Rodrigo Duterte relaxed ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
FindlayMacD said “When I started this thread I was hoping to make ex-pats who are settled here long term in the Philippines think about the possibilities of a Trump presidency for them here in the Philippines regardless of their normal ... Read More
Consequences of Trump as US President. by FindlayMacD
There are so many Americans here in Philippines and I think that the majority of them vote Republican and therefore vote for (or support) Trump, but how many of them, (And I'm talking about the ones who live here in the Philippines permanently) have ...
Tariffs Here is what President Trump said about Tariffs. (1) 10% on all imported products. (2) 60% on imports from Chine (3) Eliminate Personal Income Taxes - @Enzyte Bob Now EVERYONE needs to ask themselves what the results of above does 6 months ... Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
Got back from Guam yesterday afternoon. Left home for the drive to Cebu and airport Sun 10am. Arrived Monday 5am in Guam. Had to rest! Decided to get early check-in at the hotel I booked for 1 night...HA! Original room cost 4436 php for 1 night all ... 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 ...
@danfinn And this comment is what makes me cry at the lack of intelligence and education in our population in the USA. 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 ...
I love my PLDT out here in the province. And as a backup I have globe from the local reseller guy. The globe line is throttled to 50-60Mbs. But our PLDT line is 600Mbs up and down. We bought 5 Hi-Def Tapo surveillance cameras that go to the cloud on ... 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 ...
Would I be assuming correctly to calculate my needs I would add up the wattage draw of the appliances I want to keep running and basically do the math division by 1000 to get KW need for gen size? Adding in some for lights, startups or surge from ... Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
Larry Fisher said. . . . A member gave me a phone number for Guam and I called and within 4 rings I had a real, live, person! Told me how fast and easy he could get Medicare canceled for me and I booked a ticket. ... Read More
US Dollar Up by Enzyte Bob
Today $1 gets you P57.98.
9pm Phils time. I just looked it up again, 58.12 😊 Read More
Remote for work by tariq campbell
As an American, I am currently working remotely as a bookkeeper in the United States, but I am considering relocating to the Philippines. Would this present any issues?
@Skip Scott Starlink it supposed to be good as alternative. - @Cliff Spark Please no.But I suppose it depends where you live. Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
Well they GOT ME! Right in the keester, multiple times!I couldn't get through to Social Security at the Embassy, even though I started calling @ 7:59am.A member gave me a phone number for Guam and I called and within 4 rings I had a real, live, ... Read More
Overseas Americans Voting by PalawOne
Newspaper item today, perhaps of interest .."Overseas Americans Could Swing the Election"By Farah Stockman, NYT Editorial Board Member, Oct. 16, 2024Sharon Manitta, a 76-year-old retired textile conservator in Wiltshire, England, has been doing her ...
Larry Fisher said . . . I voted online two weeks ago. Easy peasy *****************************************Can you give us some details or instructions? There are some of us that would like to vote. -@Enzyte BobYou know Bob I can't give you exact ... Read More
Overseas Americans Voting by PalawOne
Newspaper item today, perhaps of interest .."Overseas Americans Could Swing the Election"By Farah Stockman, NYT Editorial Board Member, Oct. 16, 2024Sharon Manitta, a 76-year-old retired textile conservator in Wiltshire, England, has been doing her ...
I voted online two weeks ago. Easy peasy Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
@Enzyte Bob I'm going to make one try tomorrow when US Embassy Social Security takes phone calls (2 days per week for 3 hours). If I can't get through I'm booking a trip to Guam asap. Sadly I just looked there's nothing direct from Cebu to Guam, nor ... Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel? by Larry Fisher
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ...
@gregparker6201 Did you need to make an appointment at Guam office or just walk-in? Read More
help: Medicare just got me. How to cancel?
October is my 65th birthday month. I have looked previously and thought I opted out of Medicare in advance. But alas, I got dinged on my Social Security check this month. Pisses me off. I can't find a ONLINE way to cancel it. I'm not going back. ... Read More
US virtual mail services by Tumbleweed 2
What virtual mail service would you recommend for a single retired man, with the intent to move to the Visayas or Thailand? No longer have any living relatives in the US. Plus any other information any of you can share to a 1st timer who's become a ...
I use US Global Mail -@Enzyte Bob Me too. Happy with the service. Read More
Bohol Motorbike Licence Plates by John Peacock
Hi,I'm a resident on Panglao hoping someone can help with information on where I can get motorbike licence plates made up. I've just applied for and received my official registration papers for my motorbike. I was expecting to get my licence plates ...
John Peacock said . . . . I was expecting to get my licence plates at the same time but I've been advised that because of LTO backlogs I could be waiting a long time. ************************(1) Renewed my drivers license, they had no plastic blanks ... Read More
Bank Account by ShueArie
I've been visiting the Philippines for the last 2 or so years roughly a month 2 to 3 times a year. I stay at my Fiancée home every visit. I'm wondering if anyone knows anything about the Banking Rules there. Can I or we open a Bank Account ...
@Larry Fisher incorrect i got a PNB savings and checking account many years ago without having a SRRV or 13A -@Morgacj200424You're aiming at the wrong target. I did the same as you just 2-3 months ago. I said, like you, one DOESNT ... Read More
Philippines bank account by markya68
Hello, are there any banks that will allow a foreigner to open an account with a passport and ACR tourist?
I did it 2-3 months ago. BDO in the province. Read More
Bank Account by ShueArie
I've been visiting the Philippines for the last 2 or so years roughly a month 2 to 3 times a year. I stay at my Fiancée home every visit. I'm wondering if anyone knows anything about the Banking Rules there. Can I or we open a Bank Account ...
No, not until you obtain a 13A visa or SRRV. Sorry! -@Skip ScottWRONG! I have neither and I have a Philippines bank account. I send money from US to it every month too. And use the ATM for cash. 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 ...
I've not read much of the thread. With that in mind, I highly suggest NEVER financing a vehicle purchase in the Philippines. The interest is CRAZY! I mean if you want to pay 35%+ go for it! Pay cash or don't buy. Financing is why so many Filipino ... Read More
New BI requirements for visitor visas. by bigpearl
Went to renew my visitor visa this morning and halfway through filling out the form the security guard asked me to gather my paperwork and follow him please. A short distance was a lunch room with a rather official looking man who introduced himself ...
@bigpearl sad. We've all heard the Philippines government say that bringing in that tourism dollar (or euro) is so important for the country. And we're hearing they want to improve upon retirement options for expats, like Thailand is currently ... Read More
Water tank size? by gwaps
I will get water tank and tower installed next year in cebu . Wondered what size to get on home 1200 sqare foot?( We have two bathrooms .) Thanks :)
@gwaps Did you find what you were looking for? We installed a water tank for our home in the Philippines. Unfortunately, we were not there when the work was done. The water lines seem way too small and the pressure is awful. We ... Read More
Water tank size? by gwaps
I will get water tank and tower installed next year in cebu . Wondered what size to get on home 1200 sqare foot?( We have two bathrooms .) Thanks :)
@renegadesric529Sorry about the so-late reply. Feed cost starts low as small one don't eat as much obviously. But for example we have 27 we are fattening now. They're about 4 months old? (I'd have to look at my data which isn't open atm) We got 10 ... Read More
Buy phone online in the Philippines by Cliffordbrown808
Want to buy phone from there online and send to someone there in the Philippines
If you buy on Lazada you can buy (generally) from the manufacturers store on Lazada. I bought my Samsung S24 Ultra this year that way (not a cheap phone). Read More
A mouse in the house. by bigpearl
Something different from my normal rambles.We have lived here for over 5 years and never saw a mouse let alone a rat here, I have noticed the neighbours cat at times down the bottom of the garden stalking and chasing but too far away and I just ...
We have a few cats. That keeps the mice away. Gecko's for the insects. I love the balance of nature. 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 ...
Atlas Shippers does Balikbayan boxes also. I moved here from Las Vegas. We had LBC and inside Seafood City Asian Markets were also Atlas Shippers offices. That's the service I used and my box arrived at my doorstep as expected. Cost roughly $125? ... Read More
Places to live in Cebu, Philippines by piattepye
What are some other cities than Cebu City to retire in Cebu
@pnwcyclistPerfectly stated. We live in Argao, 70km takes 3 hrs to drive and I'm an aggressive driver. As mentioned, I go to the city Once a month. Going Thursday in fact. I load the hell up on things I want/we need. I really shoulda bought a ... Read More
Fiancé Visa by Legitk
I am engaged and plan to take my Filipina to America. Fiancé Visa is currently pending. Please help me think of the best way to make my checklist happenbring fiance to live with me permanently in AmericaHave a Roman Catholic wedding in ...
Andy_1963. . . . My friend is married with a filipina and he applied for a visa for her 2 years ago. He is still waiting for her visa. **************************** Just today President Biden suggested Undocumented Spouses of American citizens ... Read More
Tankless or tank water heater? by Filamretire
Trying to decide a hot water system on a new home build. I see many homes have tankless point of use heaters, but you would need one for every hot water faucet, right? There are water boiler tanks electric and gas for whole house systems, which are ...
@rcviningQuestions: Your tank must have a air vent. We have one that's basically just a threaded roughly 1" i.d. opening. With not even a screen. What sort of filtering do you do there? **Ours is a 1000 liter plastic tank. 2nd question: What type of ... Read More
Tankless or tank water heater? by Filamretire
Trying to decide a hot water system on a new home build. I see many homes have tankless point of use heaters, but you would need one for every hot water faucet, right? There are water boiler tanks electric and gas for whole house systems, which are ...
@Lotus Eater I had this system before but the pump was noisy, prone to leakages, and there is a 'delay' before kicking in due to the reed switch. -@Lotus Eater My system consists of a large storage tank fed by municipal water. That feeds a ... Read More
USD account or PHP account? Banks in Phils. by Larry Fisher
I need to quit delaying and just open a Philippine Bank account. Especially with such awesome exchange rates available right now. So I'm planning to go down to my wife's bank today to open an account. I'll deposit 10-20k php or whatever to open it. ...
Thanks Bob. I've been using remitly and just picking up at the pawnshop in town (don't ask me to spell them). But while I'm saving from the ATM fees, the vig is still 1.5-1.8p per dollar off the forex. So I looked at Wise again today and finally ... Read More
USD account or PHP account? Banks in Phils.
I need to quit delaying and just open a Philippine Bank account. Especially with such awesome exchange rates available right now. So I'm planning to go down to my wife's bank today to open an account. I'll deposit 10-20k php or whatever to open it. ... Read More
Pig farm starting up in Philippines by renegadesric529
Could anyone give me some more info on pig far
@renegadesric529Sir it depends on your financial situation and available land and experience to a large degree.Let me just share something that's going on in our little area here in the province. We have a friend that to our surprise got involved ... Read More
No more 6 mos visa? by Larry Fisher
According to JRC Visa consultancy. A YouTube video popped up on my feed this morning that was posted only 24 hrs ago. Guy claims BI has scrapped 6 month visa's even though there's no official announcement made saying as much. I've looked around the ...
@bigpearlNo pats required. No, really. None...thank you, thank you, but really it was nothing. They did not divulge to someone as lowly as myself why. Read More
No more 6 mos visa? by Larry Fisher
According to JRC Visa consultancy. A YouTube video popped up on my feed this morning that was posted only 24 hrs ago. Guy claims BI has scrapped 6 month visa's even though there's no official announcement made saying as much. I've looked around the ...
Update: Yesterday I took one for the team. (shameless plug for self) Since I was making a trip to Cebu City, I opted to take a 90 minute detour to the Lapu Lapu BI office I normally use. There, I asked specifically about the 6 month visa extension. ... Read More
No more 6 mos visa? by Larry Fisher
According to JRC Visa consultancy. A YouTube video popped up on my feed this morning that was posted only 24 hrs ago. Guy claims BI has scrapped 6 month visa's even though there's no official announcement made saying as much. I've looked around the ...
@Larry Fisher I obtained a six months visa in March at Mactan Immigration without any issues -@talambanThat means JRC is wrong. Somebody should tell them since they come ... Read More
Admins: Confirm my email address! rofl
I have had the red sign up for over a month. And every time I try to confirm my email address through your link, it doesn't work or go through. Please fix. I can't message people, admins etc. Read More
No more 6 mos visa? by Larry Fisher
According to JRC Visa consultancy. A YouTube video popped up on my feed this morning that was posted only 24 hrs ago. Guy claims BI has scrapped 6 month visa's even though there's no official announcement made saying as much. I've looked around the ...
@Cherryann01And just because x office doesn't give 6 mos visa's doesn't mean they are not available anymore either. Which is exactly what the agency posted.Agreed what happened weeks ago or even 5 days ago may not be today. But there is NO official ... Read More