This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading!
Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!
You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?
There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!
Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!
Visitors of germanexpatinthephilippines/Besucher dieser Webseite.Ich liebe meine Flaggensammlung!
MANILA, Philippines — Actress Rufa Mae Quinto's husband Trevor Magallanes revealed that they are in the process of getting divorced.
In his Instagram story, Trevor said that he needs to explain the status of his marriage with Rufa.
"Hey guys, I felt like I need to explain myself based on social media and all that. I want to make myself clear that Rufa Mae and I are in the process of a divorce," he said.
"You may be aware that divorce can be very devastating to the children but also to the parents. That said, my marriage has been a s*** show and I am sorry for that,"
Trevor said that he wanted to spend more time with their daughter Athena after the divorce.
"All that matters to me at this time is getting through the divorce as best as I can and spending time with Athena. Happy holidays!" he wrote.
Kim Chiu has accepted another role, which is the Tanduay Calendar Girl for 2025. She represents a woman who is confident, empowered, resilient and strong. ‘I feel like this is just a powerful moment for me and this is a milestone I never thought of early in my career days,’ says the actress and TV host. ‘This is a testament to how much I’ve grown and how far I’ve come, not only as an artist and as an individual, but especially as a woman.’
MANILA, Philippines — Kim Chiu has taken on varied roles on the small and big screens.
Recently, however, the Kapamilya star has accepted another role, which is the Tanduay Calendar Girl for 2025, and never passed up the chance to be one.
As the face of the brand, Kim represents a woman who is confident, empowered, resilient and strong.
Looking back on the time she won the hearts of everyone as a teen aspiring star to moments she learned the ropes of acting and performing, and proving herself in challenging and mature projects, Kim has come a long way as an actress and as a celebrity.
“I was shocked and I asked myself (then) if I was ready to do this,” recalled the actress-TV host when first she got wind of being tapped as the Tanduay Calendar Girl 2025 in a recent event-cum-press conference for this development in her career. “A lot of people have known me since (my) ‘Pinoy Big Brother’ stint and I grew up in front of everyone’s eyes, not everyone, but maybe most of the people. They’ve known me. And I think it’s about time also for me to do this.”
She added that she feels “empowered” with this project and “grateful.”
“I feel like this is just a powerful moment for me and this is a milestone I never thought of early in my career days. But I believe this is a testament to how much I’ve grown and how far I’ve come, not only as an artist and as an individual, but especially as a woman.”
The event’s theme was “aura” and complemented what a Tanduay Calendar Girl has been symbolizing, such as beauty, confidence, strength and inspiration, according to a piece of information given to this paper.
For Kim, the word “aura” is a celebration of authenticity and individuality.
“I think kasi we all have different types of beauty, we all have different types of confidence, and lahat naman tayo, we all have our own struggles that we hide and it exudes sa confidence natin (aura is shown in our confidence),” said she, adding that being resilient is part of it.
“No matter what life throws at you and you end up standing up, so, I’m here despite all the challenges that I’ve faced, I’m here in front of everyone, smiling, standing as your Tanduay Calendar Girl,” shared she. “So, it was one of those things that I never thought I would be doing in my career, that’s why this is such a big step for me and I’m proud to be here in front of you. That’s my aura, strong aura.”
Asked how she prepared for being the Tanduay Calendar Girl 2025 and the photo shoots that came with it, Kim answered, “Paano naghanda (how did I prepare for it)? Actually, if you follow me on my Instagram account, (you’ll see that) I always work out, parang physically endorphin siya (somehow, I consider working out like endorphins, as mood boosters). It makes me happy and it pumps up my day.”
Aside from the physical preparation to look fit and healthy, Kim said she had to be mentally ready, to represent a woman’s confidence, as one may add, in the outfits she wore as a calendar girl.
“Lalo na yung pictorial namin, yung first suot ko nung damit na yung blue (especially in the pictorial like the blue outfit), oh my god, ‘Am I really doing this?’ ‘Am I a woman now?’” said she. “So, more than physical, I really prepared (my mind and did) mental readiness if I (was) really ready to do (it), but I was very much ready, and here I am now, with all these pictures and all.”
She added that she was very happy “with the outcome, and how it went,” and Kim was simply thankful for the trust that has been given to her.
A low pressure area (LPA) near Mindanao and three other weather systems are expected to bring cloudy skies with scattered rains to many parts of the country on Tuesday, Dec. 17.
(MB Visual Content Group)
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the four weather systems may bring cloudy and rainy weather to parts of the country within the next 24 hours.
In its latest weather forecast, PAGASA said the LPA was estimated to be 155 kilometers east-southeast of Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
The LPA, it added, is “embedded” along the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) affecting the Visayas and Mindanao.
Due to the LPA, cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms are expected in Eastern Visayas, Caraga, and the Davao Region.
The shear line, on the other hand, will affect the Bicol Region and Quezon, bringing cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms.
The rest of the Visayas and Mindanao may also experience cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms due to the ITCZ.
Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon or “amihan” may bring partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains to the Cagayan Valley, Cordillera Administrative Region, Aurora, Metro Manila, and the rest of Luzon.
PAGASA warned that flash floods or landslides due to moderate to heavy rains remain possible.
Determined to ensure the stability of the price of rice at the retail level, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel has been doing the rounds of Kadiwa ng Pangulo kiosks where the staple is selling at ₱40 per kilo.
This comes on the heels of latest projections made by the US Department of Agriculture. The USDA eyes a looming increase in rice imports, spurred by production declines caused by La Niña and a series of natural disasters that have hit the country’s rice-producing areas, drastically reducing yields at a time when demand is on the rise. This confluence of factors presents not only economic but also social ramifications, particularly for the lowest income classes, who are most vulnerable to price hikes and food insecurity.
According to the USDA, the Philippines is set to become the world’s largest rice importer for three consecutive marketing years. This marks a troubling shift, as the country moves from a self-sufficient producer to a net importer, relying increasingly on foreign rice to meet domestic demand. While rice imports have historically played a role in balancing supply shortages, the sheer scale of expected imports — projected at around 5.4 million metric tons in 2024-2025 — highlights the growing gap between production and consumption. This gap is widening due to a surge in rice consumption. Rice is a staple in the Filipino diet, and for many, it is the primary source of sustenance. From 14.8 million metric tons (MT) in 2020-2021, rice consumption in the Philippines is expected to rise to 17.4 million MT in the 2024-2025 marketing year. This increase is driven by several factors, including population growth, changing dietary habits, and the socio-economic realities faced by millions of Filipinos. As consumption continues to climb, the supply side struggles to keep pace, further exacerbating the need for imports.
Rice is not just a food item. It’s a cornerstone of economic stability for many Filipino families. The lowest-income classes, particularly those living in rural areas where rice is grown, are most exposed to the fluctuating prices and availability of the commodity. Typhoons and extreme weather events have already driven up production costs, and now the anticipated increase in imports will likely push domestic rice prices higher due to a combination of market dynamics and logistical challenges.
The impact on low-income families could be devastating. With rising rice prices, these households will spend an even larger proportion of their income on food. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, food accounts for more than 40 percent of household expenditure among the lowest 30 percent of income earners. A rise in rice prices would, therefore, have an out sized effect on their purchasing power, further entrenching poverty and inequality. With cheaper imports flooding the market, many small-scale rice farmers are likely to be pushed into even deeper poverty.
To mitigate the impact of these changes, the government must adopt more comprehensive measures. First, improving domestic rice production through investments in irrigation, farming technology, and disaster-resilient crops could help reduce the need for imports in the future. Second, addressing the rising cost of rice through targeted subsidies or price controls can help protect the most vulnerable populations from the worst effects of inflation. Lastly, creating more robust social safety nets for farmers, including income support and disaster relief, would provide a cushion against market volatility.
The inspirational and heart-wrenching drama touches on the belief that finding green bones in a person’s remains is proof of one’s goodness in life.
Do you believe in green bones?
There is a fascinating belief among certain cultures and traditions that when green bones are discovered within an individual's cremated remains, it is a significant indicator of that person's goodness during their lifetime.
This notion suggests that such bones symbolize virtues like kindness, compassion, and moral integrity, reflecting a life well-lived.
The phenomenon is often interpreted as a spiritual acknowledgment of the individual's positive impact on the world and the people around them, further enhancing the reverence paid to the deceased during memorial practices.
From the creators of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2023 Best Picture and Best Screenplay winner Firefly, GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs proudly present their official entry for this year’s MMFF – Green Bones.
Dennis Trillo
Co-produced by Brightburn Entertainment and distributed by Columbia Pictures, Green Bones aims to be an inspiring cinematic experience just in time for Christmas.
Dennis and Ruru discussed their thoughts on green bones during a media conference in Quezon City.
"When first heard about it, interesting siya. Parang wala pang ganitong materyal na ginamit sa movies. Sana maging curious din ang mga manonood kung bakit may pelikula about Green Bones," said Dennis.
Ruru said he was grateful to be part of a unique project like Green Bones.
"I am grateful for this project because ito ang kauna-unahang Metro Manila Film Festival project ko. Naikwento ko ito kay Dennis na last year, habang nanood kami ng Firefly ni Bianca (Umali), bigla kong naramdaman na feeling ko magkakaroon ako ng MMFF next year.
Ruru Madrid
"Noong binasa ko yung script, parang meant to be na sa akin ang project. Napakaganda ng storya at buhay na buhay ang bawa't character na nasa Green Bones," said Ruru.
Preparations
Green Bones follows the story of soon-to-be-released prisoner Domingo Zamora (Dennis Trillo), who was incarcerated for the murder of his sister. His release is jeopardized by newly assigned prison guard Xavier Gonzaga (Ruru Madrid), who makes it his mission to keep Zamora behind bars.
The inspirational and heart-wrenching drama touches on the belief that finding green bones in a person’s remains is proof of one’s goodness in life. Ruru’s character, Xavier, jaded from the tragic death of his sister in a senseless crime, does not believe criminals could hold such a bone in their bodies.
His suspicions about Dennis's character, Dom Zamora, are fueled by the latter’s strange behavior inside the penal complex, even as the prisoner’s reputation is that of an already reformed man.
Dennis and Ruru opened up about their experiences and the extensive preparation they undertook for their roles in Green Bones.
National artist Ricky Lee
They discussed the unique challenges they faced and the research they conducted to understand their characters better. Together, they painted a vivid picture of their dedication and the collaborative efforts that went into bringing their characters to life on screen.
"The moment na sinabi sa akin ito, naghanap na kaagad ako ng tamang framework para sa pelikulang ito. Marami akong pinanood na mga Wong Kar-wai movies kasi kailangan ko mapuntahan yung difference ng cinema at television," said Ruru.
Ruru added: "Nagtrain ako ng meditation para maging matibay ang pag-focus ko sa bawa't eksena na gagawin ko. Nag hanap din ako ng scent ni Javier para maramdaman ko na nasa character na ako agad. Everytime na ginagamit ko siya, nagki-clear sa utak ko yung lahat ng natutunan ko sa buhay.
"After namin gawin yung movies, ang tagal kong makawala kasi nasa akin pa rin si Javier sa sistema ko. Pero na enjoy ko yung process na pelikula," Ruru also said.
Dennis elaborated on the distinctions between producing a movie and creating a television series. He highlighted how movies typically have a condensed, singular storyline that unfolds over a relatively short period, often culminating in a two-hour experience.
Zig Dulay
In contrast, a television series is designed for extended storytelling, allowing for character development and plot intricacies to evolve over multiple episodes or even seasons.
Dennis also noted the difference in pacing and the collaborative processes involved in each medium, emphasizing how these elements impact the creative choices of directors, writers, and actors.
"Magkaiba ang TV at pelikula. Sa pelikula namin, mas less ang dialogue kumpara sa TV na lahat ibibigay sa'yo. Dito nagtitinginan pa lang kami alam mo na kung ano ang ipinapahiwatig ng eksena. Kailangan ko rin dito mag sign language. Iba rin ang looks namin dito," said Dennis.
Ruru expressed his admiration for Dennis's performance in the movie, highlighting how impressed he was with his acting skills and the depth he brought to his character.
He described Dennis as exceptionally talented and praised his ability to convey emotion and connect with the audience throughout the film.
The cast of Green Bones with GMA Network executives and Green Bones creative team
"Very vocal naman ako na isa si Dennis na tinitingala kong actor so noon pa man iniisip ko kung paano ang magiging dynamics namin. Nagtatanong ako kay Bianca kasi nagwork na sila together sa Legal Wives so nagtatanong ako about Kuya Dennis.
"Everytime naman na lalapitan ko si Kuya Dennis at kapag may tanong ako at sinasagot ka naman niya. Everytime na nasa set kami, mapifeel mo na focus kami sa kanya-kanyang characters," Ruru also said.
Green Bones is directed by award-winning director Zig Dulay, the filmmaker behind “Firefly.” Zig is known for his hit TV series Maria Clara at Ibarra and Sahaya.
Based on the original concept of GMA Public Affairs’ senior manager for documentaries JC Rubio, Green Bones was written by National Artist Ricky Lee and MMFF 2023 Best Screenplay winner Anj Atienza.
Mikoy Morales, Royce Cabrera, Sofia Pablo, Sienna Stevens, Kylie Padilla, Pauline Mendoza, Gerhard Acao, Raul Morit, Victor Neri, Ruby Ruiz, and Enzo Osorio complete the film’s star-studded cast.
In celebration of their 15th anniversary, K-pop girl group 2NE1 announced the release of a limited edition LP.
YG Entertainment posted on Dec. 16 details about the “2NE1 15th Anniversary Best LP” that will contain the group’s representative songs.
2NE1 members (from left) Sandara Park, Minzy, CL and Park Bom (X)
The “2NE1 15th Anniversary Best LP” (YG Entertainment)
Here is the track list of the LP:
SIDE A
1.Fire
2.I Don’t Care
3.Can’t Nobody
4.Go Away
5.아파 (Slow)
SIDE B
1.내가 제일 잘 나가 (I Am the Best)
2.UGLY
3.Lonely
4.그리워해요 (Missing You)
5.Come Back Home (Concert Live Ver.)
The “Come Back Home (Concert Live Ver.)” is an actual live recording from 2NE1’s recent Seoul concert.
Each LP comes with a clear case, vinyl, round cover posters, round posters, lyrics poster, metal credit board and selfie photocards, according to the YG Select website. It also includes handwritten messages from 2NE1 members.
It will be produced only based on the actual orders and each LP will have a limited edition hologram sticker attached. It is scheduled to be delivered from the end of March 2025.
2NE1 members Sandara Park, Minzy, CL and Park Bom are currently meeting fans through their “Asia Tour: Welcome Back” concert. They debuted in 2009.
Julia is set to make waves again as she returns to the big screen with‘Hold Me Close,’Viva Films’ official entry to the 50thMetro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
Julia Barretto
Actress Julia Barretto admired individuals who could read minds or sense different energies.
Julia highlighted her deep respect for those who can intuitively grasp the thoughts and emotions of others. She acknowledged the fascinating skill of perceiving unspoken feelings and energies, which can significantly influence interpersonal connections.
During a media conference for the upcoming movie "Hold Me Close" at Viva Cafe in Araneta City, Julia shared a forecast that left a significant impression on her.
"I've met some people who claim to be an energy or palm reader. I am open to it, although I am a religious person. Maka-Diyos akong tao. Above everything else is my faith. I have the utmost respect for them.
"I don't think may recent ako na reading or forecast pero in the past, ang tumatak talaga sa akin is nangyari sa Cebu, a decade na yata.
"My mom and I we're together. Sinasabi ng reader in my past life, best friends daw talaga kami ng mommy ko and I believe in that. My mom and I have a special bond. Kaya pala because we were best friends in our past lives," recalled Julia.
The girlfriend of actor Gerald Anderson hopes to receive a forecast about her lifetime partner. "Maybe I'll give it a try soon."
Julia is set to make waves again as she returns to the big screen with ‘Hold Me Close,’ Viva Films’ official entry to the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
The romantic-fantasy film marks Julia's second collaboration with Carlo Aquino and director Jason Paul Laxamana, and fans are excited to see her take on the role of Lynlyn, a clairvoyant girl.
Not only is this Julia’s much-anticipated return to MMFF after her 2016 appearance in ‘Vince and Kath and James,’ but it also signals a fresh chapter in her already illustrious film career.
Julia Barretto poses with loyal fans
Filmed in Japan, audiences can catch ‘Hold Me Close’ this Dec. 25 in cinemas nationwide.
Asked about how the MMFF project came about, Julia said: "We have a group chat for the cast of 'Expensive Candy' that's been going for three years. Biglang nagparamdam si direk (Jason Paul Laxamana) ng what's the next? Right away, Caloy (Carlo Aquino) and I were on board.
"So we're excited to be in Direk Jason's mind: no story, material, or script. We just knew he wanted to do a reunion project, and we were on board. It took him a while to write the entire script.
"Caloy told Direk that he hoped to do a project similar to 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.' So, Direk Jason got the inspiration for that movie.
"And then tuloy-tuloy na. We didn't know the movie was submitted for the Metro Manila Film Festival. It's a beautiful film about trying to erase memories pero may underlying message naman yung movie. That's how it came about. So, at some point, we will do something together," said Julia.
