Brojeslov
Australian looking for information about Philippines
Forum posts
135
About me
Australian
Registration: 17 December 2023
Philippine Airlines going up in the world? by Lotus Eater
Philippine Airlines has now been invited to join the One World Alliance and will become fully integrated into the airline grouping by 2027. What does this mean for international travellers flying into and within the Philippines. If you fly on any of ...
Qantas is part of One World too so Aussie frequent flyers will be able to avail themselves of points for Philippines Airlines flights Read More
America tops Philippine tourism market by PalawOne
US tops Philippine tourism market, propelled by strong ties, even stronger dollarThe Philippines, however, attracted just 2.1 million of Southeast Asia’s 48.5 million tourist arrivals in the first four months of this yearBy Sam Beltran ...
I should have clariified that my information came from an exective at San Miguel Corporation who I sat next to on a flight from Australia, not from a government source, so there may well be an element of wishful thinking in what he disclosed. He ... Read More
America tops Philippine tourism market by PalawOne
US tops Philippine tourism market, propelled by strong ties, even stronger dollarThe Philippines, however, attracted just 2.1 million of Southeast Asia’s 48.5 million tourist arrivals in the first four months of this yearBy Sam Beltran ...
@Brojeslov I should have said wants to buy Clark Read More
America tops Philippine tourism market by PalawOne
US tops Philippine tourism market, propelled by strong ties, even stronger dollarThe Philippines, however, attracted just 2.1 million of Southeast Asia’s 48.5 million tourist arrivals in the first four months of this yearBy Sam Beltran ...
As I understand it, the owner of the new airport has also bought Clark and the plan is for NAIA to close, Clark to return to cargo only and all passenger flights to be served from Bulacan. How long it will take to achieve that I don't know. As ... Read More
America tops Philippine tourism market by PalawOne
US tops Philippine tourism market, propelled by strong ties, even stronger dollarThe Philippines, however, attracted just 2.1 million of Southeast Asia’s 48.5 million tourist arrivals in the first four months of this yearBy Sam Beltran ...
I think this is spot on:“Increasing foreign tourism would require a bigger capacity to scale up, such as further development and expansion of airports, seaports, accommodation facilities, mass transport, toll roads, and other infrastructure ... Read More
Philippine Airlines going up in the world? by Lotus Eater
Philippine Airlines has now been invited to join the One World Alliance and will become fully integrated into the airline grouping by 2027. What does this mean for international travellers flying into and within the Philippines. If you fly on any of ...
Typhoons hit the east harder than the west and the north worse than the south although you will find exceptions to this. Locations with airports that can handle jet aircraft are less disrupted than those (like El Nido) that can only handle ... Read More
Philippines .. Love, Tell, Defend and Correct by PalawOne
By Joel Valdez, Philippines Citizen, via Philippines Expat Facebook GroupLove the country. Tell the truth about it. Defend it from enemies. Correct it from within.That should not be controversial. But apparently, in 2026, basic citizenship now needs ...
That could of all been said in four lines and a key point missing is if you forgive someone all their mistakes or, even worse, make up excuses for them about their poor behaviour, they don't get better, they get worse. The Philippines will never ... Read More
There is always a silver lining by Lotus Eater
Any punters thinking of visiting the Philippines for the first time but are undecided now is the time.The US $ is trading at PHP61.45. The £ at PHP83.67. These are mid market rates.Some airlines are offering tempting prices not withstanding ...
@Cherryann01 I don't blame you at all particularly since the fuel crisis hasn't even arrived yet. The Iran War has been going on for three months yet no-one seems to be reporting actual shortage of oil ... yet. For example, the Pacific Islands Forum ... Read More
The pitfalls of buying a condo in Cebu. by Moab762
A few posts have been made recently about buying a condo in Cebu City. I used AI to write this at my direction and with deep research. It my experience this far. Not a blind report. I have another post I've written that details the one constant that ...
I recently purchased a townhouse in a gated community in Tacloban but I have to confess no matter how I contorted the data it was a poor financial decision made primarily for the security of my partner. Simple fact is renting versus buying is ... Read More
Condo in Cebu – our experience with FederalLand by karl_voda
My wife is Filipina, I am German. We have been building a life between two countries for many years now, and Cebu has always been at the center of that. At some point it felt natural to put down roots there properly – to have something that ...
Thanks for posting such a thorough reflection Read More
There is always a silver lining by Lotus Eater
Any punters thinking of visiting the Philippines for the first time but are undecided now is the time.The US $ is trading at PHP61.45. The £ at PHP83.67. These are mid market rates.Some airlines are offering tempting prices not withstanding ...
@NY_MikeThat's a bit rough mate. Everyone knows of these train wrecks but many guys are happily married to Filipinas and wouldn't have it any other way Read More
There is always a silver lining by Lotus Eater
Any punters thinking of visiting the Philippines for the first time but are undecided now is the time.The US $ is trading at PHP61.45. The £ at PHP83.67. These are mid market rates.Some airlines are offering tempting prices not withstanding ...
My partner and I recently toured Vietnam, are heading to Boracay next week, later she goes to Mindanao to see family while I return to Australia, then we spend one month together in Indonesia. To date, none of our arrangements have been disrupted, ... Read More
British Scoundrels by Peter Clark
5 years ago we had a guy arrive with Filipino wife whi told us he was from Quernsey yet had a strong cockney accent.Everyone liked him, he opened a bar restaurent closeby with music and barbecue steak grill. His wife opened a cafe place at the side ...
@Peter ClarkThey're always nice guys because no-one provides support incl lending money to slimy shitbags. I worked in child protection and every paedophile I met was a top bloke - same phenomenon Read More
Quality woman for a quality guy by Slowdown23
My name is Ryan from the United states. I am looking (not rushing) for a traditional woman who I can get to know and spend my life with. I am 37 in good shape, financially secure and have strong interpersonal skills. Able to retire in 13 years when ...
@Slowdown23 The negativity on here is wellmeaning. Love is easy but true love is hard. In my experience, Cebu has the best looking women and there's no reason not to start there. Take your time, get to know her, her family and friends, trust only ... Read More
5 Year Permanent Resident 13A, ACR1 card RENEWAL by vehicross100
Has anyone RECENTLY visited the Main BI branch to renew there 13A, 5 YEAR PERMANENT ACR1 Card ?Seems to be a lot of confusion between a TOURIST ACR1, PROBATIONARY, AND PERMANENT.So I am Only asking for those who have actually RENEWED the 13A, ACR1 ...
I'm confused about this process of renewing a passport stamp. Every time you fly into the Philippines you get one month visa free, so there's no impediment to you entering the country without this stamp in your passport. Whether you've got this ... 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 ...
@Enzyte BobYou were married to a Filipina correct? So doesn't that mean you can own land? I thought marriage achieved citizenship or am I wrong? Also, you said "your" will stated you wouldn't make a claim on the house. What's your will, to take ... 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 ...
@Enzyte Bob Bob, I've read everything you have to say and my heart goes out to you. How unlucky are we when our partner dies first? So much that would be done for us we now must plan for ourselves. And that's the only advice I can give you. You are ... 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 ...
@Enzyte Bob All the best with it, mate Read More
Philippines and the ME War by PalawOne
ME war may jolt electricity bills: Bombing of refineries causes jittersBy Maria Romero, Lisa Marie Apacible 05 Mar 2026The Middle East (ME) crisis could trigger a domino effect, driving up not only fuel prices but also electricity ...
@Enzyte BobThe history of Ukraine is a troublesome tale, one of west v east, locals v immigrants, playing out in one form or another in many countries. When the USSR was formed eastern Ukraine was scarcely developed, reindeer farmers and the like, ... Read More
Philippines and the ME War by PalawOne
ME war may jolt electricity bills: Bombing of refineries causes jittersBy Maria Romero, Lisa Marie Apacible 05 Mar 2026The Middle East (ME) crisis could trigger a domino effect, driving up not only fuel prices but also electricity ...
@danfinn Today Trump called for an "immediate pardon" for Netanyahu, currently facing court on serious criminal charges, so "he can focus on the war." Hahahaha Could he be any more blatant? Come on Dan, this thing stinks to high heaven Read More
Philippines and the ME War by PalawOne
ME war may jolt electricity bills: Bombing of refineries causes jittersBy Maria Romero, Lisa Marie Apacible 05 Mar 2026The Middle East (ME) crisis could trigger a domino effect, driving up not only fuel prices but also electricity ...
No-one should feel sorry for the Mullahs, they're nasty and deserve everything they get. We should be sceptical about the actions of the Trump and Netanyahu administrations though. It was only months ago they bombed Iran and declared victory. Will ... Read More
How to get the Philippine evisa software to work ? by stevenkirchner2
can anyone that sees this help me - when I use the philippine government software athttps://evisa.gov.ph/ I can input my passport, driver's license, utility bill, all needed information about me and proof of who i am and complete my profile but when ...
@TrevorH Thanks. I didnt know that Read More
How to get the Philippine evisa software to work ? by stevenkirchner2
can anyone that sees this help me - when I use the philippine government software athttps://evisa.gov.ph/ I can input my passport, driver's license, utility bill, all needed information about me and proof of who i am and complete my profile but when ...
@Living in the PacificI routinely enter the Philippines with a return ticket months outside my initial 30 day stay - the airline and immigration, if they say anything, and sometimes they don’t, just clarify whether I am aware of the need to ... Read More
New passport and need entry stamped transferred by Mepp7777
I recently had to get a new passport and after getting it , I used it to get my visa extension. While processing my new visa extension I was told to have my entry stamp transferred to my new passport. I was instructed to go across the hall and ...
If you left the Philippines and re-entered on your new passport assumedly you wouldn't have to do anything because your new passport would have an entry stamp. Is that correct?On a similar issue, I exited the Philippines last week and the ... Read More
Mindanao independence resolution to be submitted to UN by PalawOne
Anyone wish to make comment?"“It will need only one UN member country to endorse .. "https://tribune.net.ph/2025/12/31/mindanao-independence-resolution-to-be-submitted-to-unCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — A resolution adopted during a ...
@PalawOne Isn't that Palawan? Lol Read More
Mindanao independence resolution to be submitted to UN by PalawOne
Anyone wish to make comment?"“It will need only one UN member country to endorse .. "https://tribune.net.ph/2025/12/31/mindanao-independence-resolution-to-be-submitted-to-unCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — A resolution adopted during a ...
@danfinnNo I don’t think it’s okay for Christians to be forced to live under Islamic law but I do think there’s a good chance those same Christians in Mindanao will believe there’s a better deal for them to be had with their ... Read More
Mindanao independence resolution to be submitted to UN by PalawOne
Anyone wish to make comment?"“It will need only one UN member country to endorse .. "https://tribune.net.ph/2025/12/31/mindanao-independence-resolution-to-be-submitted-to-unCAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — A resolution adopted during a ...
The citizens of the Indonesian province of Aceh fought for ‘freedom’ against the Dutch colonisers, then the Japanese, then the Dutch (again) and when the nation-state of Indonesia was born they fought the Indonesian military because the ... Read More
Cost of living in the Philippines in 2026 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Every year, we invite you to share your experiences with the cost of living in the Philippines, especially in the region or city you live in. Your insights will greatly help members planning their move to the Philippines or ...
Our rubbish is supposedly managed by the body corporate but they have rules no-one understands so everyone (ourselves included) burns their trash on the vacant lot next door. Recyclables are piled where the trash is meant to go and they do vanish ... Read More
Cost of living in the Philippines in 2026 by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Every year, we invite you to share your experiences with the cost of living in the Philippines, especially in the region or city you live in. Your insights will greatly help members planning their move to the Philippines or ...
Monthly costs for couple living in Eastern Samar:Rent (2br apartment) 10000Utilities (Elec, Water) 6000Internet 700Cell phone (her, local) 700Cell phone (him, Australia) 1800Transport (local) 1800Gym (2) 2000Medication 3500Beauty requirements ... Read More
Alternative energy sources. by bigpearl
I will post this especially of one member sitting under a denial hat.https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=the+dickless+skit+from+ghost+busters&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:ae781e7d,vid:b6dySBLSx8Y,st:0It ...
@Lotus EaterMany people assumed the Chinese would be the last to bite the bullet on air pollution yet they've been amongst the first, with many big cities now limiting the access ICE vehicles have to central business districts (no such controls on ... Read More
Alternative energy sources. by bigpearl
I will post this especially of one member sitting under a denial hat.https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=the+dickless+skit+from+ghost+busters&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:ae781e7d,vid:b6dySBLSx8Y,st:0It ...
In my view the world would be better if we’d never invented climate change because the attitude we need is not ‘good this and bad that’ but how do we have the best of everything. Try and run a grid without fossil fuels and you end ... Read More
Alternative energy sources. by bigpearl
I will post this especially of one member sitting under a denial hat.https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=the+dickless+skit+from+ghost+busters&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:ae781e7d,vid:b6dySBLSx8Y,st:0It ...
Electric vehicle sales are increasing in nine out of the top 10 markets for vehicles in the world. Growth rates can be expected to be higher in some years, lower in others but there's nothing to suggest the erosion of market share for the internal ... Read More
Alternative energy sources. by bigpearl
I will post this especially of one member sitting under a denial hat.https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=the+dickless+skit+from+ghost+busters&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:ae781e7d,vid:b6dySBLSx8Y,st:0It ...
@danfinn You're half right and half wrong, people want range NOT an internal combustion engine. The full truth is they will put up with an internal combustion engine and all its shortcomings because of their range anxiety but once their range ... Read More
Alternative energy sources. by bigpearl
I will post this especially of one member sitting under a denial hat.https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=the+dickless+skit+from+ghost+busters&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:ae781e7d,vid:b6dySBLSx8Y,st:0It ...
No-one actually wants an internal combustion engine, the boom boom chugga chugga with their explosions, belching fumes, whirring parts, squirting lubricants etc. I can imagine the museum where the kids of the future will be staring at a Land Cruiser ... Read More
China and Philippines by PalawOne
This is a bit creepy ..My wife and friends are currently in the middle of PalawanThe island is 20klm wide, from east to west, where we farmEarlier this week, waking up on the farm, they were shaken by a loud explosion. Numbers of folks told me ...
I reclined by the infinity pool at my El Nido resort enjoying a long black coffee and magnificent view over the West Philippines Sea just as an American nuclear sub cruised past. It was an eery reminder that it will be somewhere like paradise that ... Read More
TOURISM IN THE PHILIPPINES by Enzyte Bob
Recently I saw this Tourism chart, I don't how accurate it is. Remember when the saying was: Don't believe anything you hear and only half what you see, well with IT, Social Media & News Reporting who knows what.Well AnywaysTourism from January ...
@bigpearl Alas the 8m figure, commonly quoted by the Australian tourism industry, is total foreign arrivals, not tourists. Tourists are estimated around half that. But Australia is a long way from anywhere, requires extensive domestic travel to ... Read More
TOURISM IN THE PHILIPPINES by Enzyte Bob
Recently I saw this Tourism chart, I don't how accurate it is. Remember when the saying was: Don't believe anything you hear and only half what you see, well with IT, Social Media & News Reporting who knows what.Well AnywaysTourism from January ...
I don’t believe the Philippines has ever been a big tourism destination. It’s like Australia, where large-scale tourism by foreigners is basically a myth of the tourist industry and which they justify using the inflated figures of ... Read More
Cebu debut: locations? by It2VN
In March I'm heading to Cebu to see if it could be a place to settle. My idea is to spend a month or two initially in Cebu city or one of its divisions or adjacent cities (Mandaue etc).Staying in a hotel upon arrival then renting an apartment in a ...
I’ve not been but other expats have recommended Minglanilla to the south of Cebu City and Bogo City and San Remigio to the north. Good luck! Read More
How to get the Philippine evisa software to work ? by stevenkirchner2
can anyone that sees this help me - when I use the philippine government software athttps://evisa.gov.ph/ I can input my passport, driver's license, utility bill, all needed information about me and proof of who i am and complete my profile but when ...
As stated that website is not for citizens of countries entitled to visa free entry. Also, my experience over the last year or so is the exit flight no longer has to be within 30 days. I book a cheap MNL-HKG one way within 12 months of arrival and ... Read More
ACR confusion by Brojeslov
Everything i've read online says I need an ACR card to stay in Philippines beyond 59 days (30 days visa free plus 29 day visa waiver) but a dude at Cebu immigration office has just told me I only need an ACR if I intend staying beyond 89 days (30 ...
@Andy_1963 Thanks for your response. It's confusing but I did find one reference on a government website to exactly what the guy was telling me - you only need an ACR if intending another visa extension after your 1st visa extension. That's why your ... Read More
ACR confusion
Everything i've read online says I need an ACR card to stay in Philippines beyond 59 days (30 days visa free plus 29 day visa waiver) but a dude at Cebu immigration office has just told me I only need an ACR if I intend staying beyond 89 days (30 ... Read More
Island of Cebu by piattepye
I am looking into a decent area to live in Cebu, not in the center of the city, the outskirts of the city and rest of the Island of Cebu is okay. I have to be near good medical for monthly checkups just to monitor health issue and decent housing or ...
Check out Minglanilla to the south. It's seaside with some nice new developments. Far enough from the centre not to have the same traffic issues but close enough to be connected via jeepneys Read More
Nigi Nigi Noo Noos & Noo Noo Noo's by Lotus Eater
Just heard from our very own roving reporter in the Philippines (AKA Cherryann) who is currently on location with his new gorgeous Filipina GF in Boracay.Unfortunaley its sad news. Well kind of. The renowned beach bar Nigi Nigi Noos + Noo Noo's ...
@Lotus Eater El Nido is well and truly touristed out. You go to the beautiful hidden beach and, yes, it is beautiful but you’re there with 12 other tour boats and 300 other tourists. Jostled amongst us were the so-called private tours, for ... Read More
Nigi Nigi Noo Noos & Noo Noo Noo's by Lotus Eater
Just heard from our very own roving reporter in the Philippines (AKA Cherryann) who is currently on location with his new gorgeous Filipina GF in Boracay.Unfortunaley its sad news. Well kind of. The renowned beach bar Nigi Nigi Noos + Noo Noo's ...
@Cherryann01 May I ask how many westerners are there? When I was in Boracay earlier in the year the number of westerners was low, maybe 1/3 of visitors or less, and much lower than my previous trip (2023) when it was definitely more like 2/3. I was ... Read More
Nigi Nigi Noo Noos & Noo Noo Noo's by Lotus Eater
Just heard from our very own roving reporter in the Philippines (AKA Cherryann) who is currently on location with his new gorgeous Filipina GF in Boracay.Unfortunaley its sad news. Well kind of. The renowned beach bar Nigi Nigi Noos + Noo Noo's ...
Nothing endures except change! I was in El Nido, Palawan last week and Sava, my favourite beach bar, was always easy to find because it was opposite the sunken yacht on the main beach - only the sunken yacht has been removed Read More
WISE Pilipinas by danfinn
I think this is relatively new. The WISE let's you register with a Philippine address and phone number. I had been a WISE USA customer and recently changed my WISE to a Philippine address. Doing that, they cancelled my USA VISA debit card and ...
I transfer funds from Australia to Philippines using WISE and it is almost always pretty much instantaneous but every now and then it takes up to 72 hours so you learn not to rely on speedy transactions. Otherwise I find WISE very good in terms of ... Read More
WISE Pilipinas by danfinn
I think this is relatively new. The WISE let's you register with a Philippine address and phone number. I had been a WISE USA customer and recently changed my WISE to a Philippine address. Doing that, they cancelled my USA VISA debit card and ...
I’m always surprised (and suspicious) when a financial institution does something to make life easier but this seems a very welcome development particularly if the domestic ATM charge applies Read More
Hello there, Kamusta! by deanknowles
Gday all, Dean here from Australia (Tasmania). I started international travel rather late, with one trip to Thailand in 2010. After another 10 years of no travel, I discovered the Philippines and have made 10 trips in the last 4 years! I am not ...
Welcome Dean. I’m from Canberra where I still have family but spend most of my time in the Philippines now. All the best, Luke Read More
Deportation Philippines by comprive
I am almost living 20 years in the Philippines and I had a case in the Netherlands based on a charge 23 years ago. Here I have no bad records.The bureau of Immigration Philippines made a charge sheet and deportation order. (WLO)The case in the ...
@comprive As someone who's been a public servant on many occasions I can say that trying to hurry bureaucracy up doesn't always end well. If your current status is unimpeded let them consider it at their leisure, hopefully forever. No decision may ... Read More
Filipino Gang Life by Cherryann01
For any of you who have access and are interested in this subject. i recently watched a programme on the BBC about Filipino Gang Life in Manila with Ashley Cain a former football player and found it very interesting. In the programme he talks to ...
As an aside, I was told by someone who ought to know that Filipinos in the US prison system are welcome in the Aryan Brotherhood, an ultra-violent prison gang otherwise restricted to Caucasians. This is due to Filipinos being respected as reliable ... Read More
E travel Ph by drumtones
hello, does anyone know if you can just do this online and print it out & whether this is acceptable to enter the Philippines? I can't get any sense out the people assigned to help with this in the ...
I got this from an article on Newsweek from a few days ago: “According to estimates by the World Travel & Tourism Council, international visitor spending in the U.S. is expected to fall below $169 billion this year, down from $181 billion ... Read More
E travel Ph by drumtones
hello, does anyone know if you can just do this online and print it out & whether this is acceptable to enter the Philippines? I can't get any sense out the people assigned to help with this in the ...
@danfinn Thanks for the info re: ICE v CBP. Yes, I've only ever interacted with them at the border so that would be CBP. There is a saying in professional standards, "if you unleash the dog it bites everybody" meaning if you tolerate staff choosing ... Read More
E travel Ph by drumtones
hello, does anyone know if you can just do this online and print it out & whether this is acceptable to enter the Philippines? I can't get any sense out the people assigned to help with this in the ...
@danfinn In Australia border control officers are required by law to treat people with respect and courtesy and if they don't and there is a complaint it will be investigated and they can be punished. Of course no system is perfect but the behaviour ... Read More
E travel Ph by drumtones
hello, does anyone know if you can just do this online and print it out & whether this is acceptable to enter the Philippines? I can't get any sense out the people assigned to help with this in the ...
@danfinnI've witnessed US immigration be unprofessional in their rudeness and hostility, not to me but to others and there's never any call for that. Passengers are powerless and even the bad ones should be treated politely and with respect. It's a ... Read More
E travel Ph by drumtones
hello, does anyone know if you can just do this online and print it out & whether this is acceptable to enter the Philippines? I can't get any sense out the people assigned to help with this in the ...
@mati_steveIt was probably just an over zealous immigration officer. Some of them take the job too seriously and others not seriously enough. I have been arriving/departing every few months and they just yawn and wave me through 🤞Long may ... Read More
E travel Ph by drumtones
hello, does anyone know if you can just do this online and print it out & whether this is acceptable to enter the Philippines? I can't get any sense out the people assigned to help with this in the ...
@Cherryann01 No just the 1st address - for me usually the airport hotel Read More
Managing retirement savings in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Saving for retirement as an expat in the Philippines can be challenging. With different options, rules or even taxation, expats have to understand how it works to make informed decisions. We invite you to share your insights in ...
@danfinn When you choose the credit card option to convert into the local currency at point of sale you override the Mastercard/Visa default exchange rate in favour of what the vendor specifies as the rate. In my experience this is always worse than ... Read More
E travel Ph by drumtones
hello, does anyone know if you can just do this online and print it out & whether this is acceptable to enter the Philippines? I can't get any sense out the people assigned to help with this in the ...
The Etravel is linked to your passport for immigration control and supposedly they scan it at Customs but I've been waved through twice in the past few months without any scan. Having a print out or screenshot seems advisable though Read More
Australian Immigration Marches by danfinn
Australia learns what MAGA ...
Trump’s a bit sneaky on migration, claims to be reducing legal migration but in fact all he does is go back to a recent high and cut from that, so continuing to bring in shitloads of people just not as many as the other guy. On illegal ... Read More
Meat pies and sausage rolls. by bigpearl
Been a little thin on the ground here for 5/6 days with postings/replies.I'll try this. What I desperately miss here is a decent meat pie let alone a sausage roll here in my province of over 800K people, nada. For me I can't even find sausage mince ...
@Cherryann01 New Delhi is about half-way with plenty to see and do. Just a thought Read More
Australian Immigration Marches by danfinn
Australia learns what MAGA ...
These rallies were small compared to the pro Palestine marches held in the weeks prior, but many people who oppose “mass migration” (whatever that means) didn’t attend because the organisers included some unpalatable groups ... Read More
Meat pies and sausage rolls. by bigpearl
Been a little thin on the ground here for 5/6 days with postings/replies.I'll try this. What I desperately miss here is a decent meat pie let alone a sausage roll here in my province of over 800K people, nada. For me I can't even find sausage mince ...
Not a solution for home but Abaca cafe in Cebu (there are a few outlets) does okay meat pies and sausage rolls let down mainly because the local tomato sauce is sweeter than the Aussie version and ... *drum roll* ... an amazingly good Lamington that ... Read More
Property insurance
Forgive my ignorance, I’m contemplating the purchase of a property in the Philippines and along with the legalities of it all I am also pondering the practicalities including property insurance. The location I’m considering has typhoons, ... Read More
Managing retirement savings in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Saving for retirement as an expat in the Philippines can be challenging. With different options, rules or even taxation, expats have to understand how it works to make informed decisions. We invite you to share your insights in ...
I'm only new to living in the Philippines and all my sources of income incl retirement savings are kept in my home country. I use WISE to transfer a generous amount equivalent to all living expenses to my Filipina partner's bank account every ... Read More
US-Japan-Australia-Philippines defence pact? by PalawOne
`US-Japan-Australia-Philippines defence pact vs China? Ex-official urges allianceFormer US defence official Ely Ratner says it’s time for the ‘viable and essential’ four-way defence pact. Security experts aren’t so sureBy Sam ...
@pnwcyclist The Chinese had it coming and their sailors ended up in the water - nothing announced about their fate Read More
Retiring in the Philippines by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Why did you choose to retire in the Philippines? What are the advantages compared with your home country? What were your main considerations when deciding to move? For example, taxes, ease of transferring your pension, ...
@bigpearl Just my experience, but they appear to no longer expect the return flight to be within 30 days but they are asking for evidence of it every time, whereas previously it was a bit hit and miss.The 29 day visa waiver and subsequent two month ... Read More
US-Japan-Australia-Philippines defence pact? by PalawOne
`US-Japan-Australia-Philippines defence pact vs China? Ex-official urges allianceFormer US defence official Ely Ratner says it’s time for the ‘viable and essential’ four-way defence pact. Security experts aren’t so sureBy Sam ...
@danfinn The US doesn't like talking about it but there's about 500 US military stationed in Taiwan - every now and then they're forced to admit it, pesky senators ask questions, that kind of thing. Similarly but more obviously the Philippines hosts ... Read More
US-Japan-Australia-Philippines defence pact? by PalawOne
`US-Japan-Australia-Philippines defence pact vs China? Ex-official urges allianceFormer US defence official Ely Ratner says it’s time for the ‘viable and essential’ four-way defence pact. Security experts aren’t so sureBy Sam ...
When you look at the world through China's eyes you see the Ring of Steel - South Korea, Taiwan, Japan and Philippines, all US allies, all with US troops on their territory, controlling the sea lanes vital to China's security and projecting military ... Read More
Typhoons and the aftermath. by bigpearl
Well 4 years ago we were hit by a cat 3 typhoon, we thought that was a disaster blowing some of the roof off, uprooting trees, no power for days etc.Last Friday morning at 2:30 am we were both up and alert and then the winds hit from the east, nasty ...
@Cherryann01 Snowing in Queensland, not just New South Wales 🫣 Read More
Taking Your Filipina Girlfriend on Holiday in SE Asia by Cherryann01
I have read articles and seen videos on this subject a few times before but was recently in the Philippines with a woman who put a slightly new perspective on this subject. She and her sister and a couple of her friends had trips planned in SE ...
My partner and I just got through Immigration at NAIA T3 for a nine-day trip to Hong Kong. We have been together 12 months, do not reside together and are not married. She was asked questions at the booth about our relationship and holiday plans and ... Read More
The Philippines, a welcoming destination to expats? by Cheryl
Hello everyone, Settling in the Philippines, like every new environment, can feel like stepping into the unknown and brings many questions: how will it go, how to integrate successfully, etc. To help smooth this transition, we invite you to ...
Nothing has been said here about false allegations of domestic violence in the Phillipines that doesn't apply in Australia these days. Unless the allegations are patently false (e.g. defy the laws of physics) they will be favoured over evidence ... Read More
Basic Healthcare Manila by Jackson4
I arrived in Manila July 5. After a week of not sleeping very well, I got some really sore (painful) throat, some cough/cold and headache. Today's Monday and I will fly back to the US Thursday. Not good. I went to UST Hospital and was seen by a ...
I hope you're better soon mate Read More
NAIA T3 Grab Service booking desk incompetency by Jackson4
I had been a fan of Grab while in the Philippines. I arrived Manila yesterday morning. I tried to book Grab using my cellphone app but Grab app required update. Since internet speed is so slow, I was unable to update the app. I went to the Grab ...
@Lotus Eater I've experienced the FM Resort Hotel many times and it's certainly the greatest airport hotel for me. Great rooms, magnificent gym, hot cold and medium pools, ice cold beer, great food, full salon for the ladies, snooker tables, ... Read More
NAIA T3 Grab Service booking desk incompetency by Jackson4
I had been a fan of Grab while in the Philippines. I arrived Manila yesterday morning. I tried to book Grab using my cellphone app but Grab app required update. Since internet speed is so slow, I was unable to update the app. I went to the Grab ...
@Lotus EaterBelmont went from $A90 to $A120 plus over the last year or so. Savoy is a nicer hotel IMHO but a longer walk and can be had for around $A90 if you book in advance. The apartments next to the church (which is next to Belmont) are dated ... Read More
NAIA T3 Grab Service booking desk incompetency by Jackson4
I had been a fan of Grab while in the Philippines. I arrived Manila yesterday morning. I tried to book Grab using my cellphone app but Grab app required update. Since internet speed is so slow, I was unable to update the app. I went to the Grab ...
@Lotus EaterYes I walk over the walking bridge and there are reasonably priced apartments just on the other side opposite the church and just a bit further down the road the Savoy Hotel has everything and if you book in advance is reasonably priced. ... Read More
NAIA T3 Grab Service booking desk incompetency by Jackson4
I had been a fan of Grab while in the Philippines. I arrived Manila yesterday morning. I tried to book Grab using my cellphone app but Grab app required update. Since internet speed is so slow, I was unable to update the app. I went to the Grab ...
The flight from Sydney into Manila arrives around peak hour and after a few nightmare experiences with traffic conditions I always stay overnight near the terminal now. There's some reasonably priced hotels and AirBNB within easy walking distance, ... Read More
NAIA T3 Grab Service booking desk incompetency by Jackson4
I had been a fan of Grab while in the Philippines. I arrived Manila yesterday morning. I tried to book Grab using my cellphone app but Grab app required update. Since internet speed is so slow, I was unable to update the app. I went to the Grab ...
Whatever problems you're experiencing with Grab, expect them from local taxis 10x. I dread even getting in a taxi after so many bad experiences from blatant overcharging to lack of recognition of big name hotels and key landmarks, inability to ... Read More
Police Clearance from home country by Guzik
I will be moving to the Philippines with my wife in October. At that time, I will be applying for a 13A visa. My question is, if I get the police clearance before I arrive, do I need to get it notarized or authenticated before I arrive in the ...
@Mcguyvr67 Good on you mate Read More
Taxes for expats in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When settling in and living in the Philippines, you will also need to navigate the local tax system. In order to help newcomers and expats ease their tax-related experience, we would like to invite you to share your ...
@bigpearl I'm not 60 yet but my ex wife who is contributes $25K to her accumulation fund, claims the $25K as a tax deduction against her private income, then withdraws the $25K, for an easy $4K profit that pays for her sparkling wine. It's the last ... Read More
Taxes for expats in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When settling in and living in the Philippines, you will also need to navigate the local tax system. In order to help newcomers and expats ease their tax-related experience, we would like to invite you to share your ...
@bigpearl Your minimum super draw down increases with age but you can open an accumulation account and deposit your draw down, up to a generous limit, while claiming it as a tax deduction against any taxable income you may have outside of super - ... Read More
Taxes for expats in the Philippines by Cheryl
Hello everyone, When settling in and living in the Philippines, you will also need to navigate the local tax system. In order to help newcomers and expats ease their tax-related experience, we would like to invite you to share your ...
@bigpearl Thanks Steve. So Australia has one of these tax treaties with the Philippines? So if you pay tax on income in Australia or it's tax free in Australia (e.g. super after 60) then no tax is payable in Philippines? Cheerio Read More
Taking Your Filipina Girlfriend on Holiday in SE Asia by Cherryann01
I have read articles and seen videos on this subject a few times before but was recently in the Philippines with a woman who put a slightly new perspective on this subject. She and her sister and a couple of her friends had trips planned in SE ...
The three young women I know who've been offboarded were all told why. There was nothing mysterious about the decisions although all were strongly disagreed with by the poor lady in question. One was going to Kuala Lumpur to meet a man she had not ... Read More
Taking Your Filipina Girlfriend on Holiday in SE Asia by Cherryann01
I have read articles and seen videos on this subject a few times before but was recently in the Philippines with a woman who put a slightly new perspective on this subject. She and her sister and a couple of her friends had trips planned in SE ...
@Lotus Eater Amen brother 👍 Read More
Taking Your Filipina Girlfriend on Holiday in SE Asia by Cherryann01
I have read articles and seen videos on this subject a few times before but was recently in the Philippines with a woman who put a slightly new perspective on this subject. She and her sister and a couple of her friends had trips planned in SE ...
@Lotus Eater I'm sure the immigration officers are capricious and I know young women who have been offboarded unfairly (both were departing solo to meet men overseas) I just don't have any evidence that a western guy departing overseas with his long ... Read More
Taking Your Filipina Girlfriend on Holiday in SE Asia by Cherryann01
I have read articles and seen videos on this subject a few times before but was recently in the Philippines with a woman who put a slightly new perspective on this subject. She and her sister and a couple of her friends had trips planned in SE ...
@Lotus EaterI thought the video showed that the immigration officers believe they have a real job to do and I’m sure, like every other functionary in the world, they can do that job easy or hard on the person depending on justification or ... Read More
Taking Your Filipina Girlfriend on Holiday in SE Asia by Cherryann01
I have read articles and seen videos on this subject a few times before but was recently in the Philippines with a woman who put a slightly new perspective on this subject. She and her sister and a couple of her friends had trips planned in SE ...
@Cherryann01It could be the offboarded lady's problem was she was travelling solo, while the others who were allowed to depart were in a group. The power of numbers, if they're in a group Immigration really has to knock them all back or let them all ... Read More
Remitly, Wise or? by bigpearl
Thinking of setting up an account with one of the above companies, any thoughts or recommendations?Cheers, Steve.
@danfinn Yes they 'refunded' the outstanding amount Read More
Remitly, Wise or? by bigpearl
Thinking of setting up an account with one of the above companies, any thoughts or recommendations?Cheers, Steve.
I'd been a happy and profitable customer of Remitly for three years before falling foul of the algorithm, which happened because I sent a series of larger transfers to people previously unknown to me (holiday expenses for a trip arranged by family ... Read More
All For The Sake Of A Selfie by Aidan in HCMC
Well, I guess I can take solace in knowing Vietnam is not the only nation to host dumb tourists.Man Seriously Injured After Entering Crocodile Enclosure for Selfie in Philippinesand,Video(s) here.
Remember the guy years ago who leapt into the lion enclosure at Melbourne Zoo wearing a karate uniform? He didn't want a selfie, more like close combat, which i actually believe is more respectful of nature. He came second, a distant second. RIP Read More
Remitly, Wise or? by bigpearl
Thinking of setting up an account with one of the above companies, any thoughts or recommendations?Cheers, Steve.
If you're looking for cheap services just understand their limitations. Remitly, WorldRemit, Wise etc are all cheap because their business is smaller transactions for domestic purposes. Your bank charges you more because they'll take on anyone - ... 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. ...
@danfinnThese missile systems are easily reconfigured from conventional to nuclear warheads. They're a wolf in sheep's clothing, hence the freak out factor. Read More
More on WISE AML activity by danfinn
WISE cracking down to lower AML risks. It can impact Customers when banks so easily pull the trigger to reduce customers' AML risk. It appears WISE may be one of the banks (UK). I would not deposit or even transfer amounts over $500 with banks that ...
@danfinn Same as you, my account was ‘suspended’ so I couldn’t put money in or take money out. Luckily I had access to other funds, so was able to do a bank transfer for the funds my father’s overseas family desperately ... Read More
More on WISE AML activity by danfinn
WISE cracking down to lower AML risks. It can impact Customers when banks so easily pull the trigger to reduce customers' AML risk. It appears WISE may be one of the banks (UK). I would not deposit or even transfer amounts over $500 with banks that ...
Wise, Remitly, World Remit etc provide a cheap service for retail customers wanting to transfer modest sums for domestic purposes. That's their risk profile. I've used each service with little difficulty until I wanted to transfer larger sums in ... 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 ...
Donald Trump is the new Liz Truss, wolf-warrior tamed to pussy cat by the reality that investors not voters rule the world. Liz’s austerity budget crashed and burned on the bond markets, Trump’s tariffs have just done the same. I was ... 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 ...
@FredAmerican immigration has always had a bad reputation for bullying but these latest reports are really something else. Usually the horrendous experience of being banged up by a petty ICE official with an axe to grind is limited to young people, ... 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 ...
Once upon a time you wanted your neighbours poor so they could make you cheap stuff. Now economic theory shows you want your neighbours rich so they can buy the overpriced crap you produce. As stated succinctly above, Trump's tariffs completely miss ... Read More
Rodrigo Duterte arrested. by Lotus Eater
The former president of the Philippines Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested in Manila by the ICC (International criminal court)Chickens finally coming home to roost Rod?
My friends in the north of the Philippines haven't batted an eyelid about Duterte's extradition while those in the south are universally outraged. Politics is played rough there! I don't feel sorry for Duterte, he would have done the same to Bong ... Read More
Newspaper concerned about tourism safety by PalawOne
`EDITORIAL - Murder in BoracayThe Philippine Star, March 14, 2025https://www.philstar.com/opinion/2025/03/14/2428211/editorial-murder-boracayBoracay island remains safe as a travel destination, according to Philippine officials.They will have to do ...
No-one is absolutely safe anywhere but I can only hope we're distressed by this poor tourist slain in Boracay because it's such a rare occurrence. Policing and private security on the tourist strip in Biracay is highly visible and I've seen what ... Read More
HOA Billing CondoCorp Horrors😱🥵 by KenUSA
Does anyone have experience dealing with Condo CORP HOA Billing for condos in Bonifacio Global City, TAGUIG ❓ I have two condos there and even after paying 12 months in advance all my dues they keep sending me bills and penalties and ...
What I don’t understand is how owning a property in the Philippines can be justified when rents seem so low in comparison. Mine is an imperfect analysis because I’m going off apartments for sale and apartments for rent of the same ... Read More