Living as an expatriat in the Philippines (I) - in English and in German

 By Global Health Foyer Group

Foyer Global Health is the specialist expatriate brand by Luxembourg’s leading insurance company Foyer Group. Our health plans are the result of decades of experience with customers from all over the world. We offer first-class health insurance coverage in combination with comprehensive medical assistance services as well as other services, which can be added to your plan in accordance with your individual needs.

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The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, offers a unique blend of Hispanic, American, and Asian influences, making it a top destination for expatriates, retirees, and digital nomads. With its tropical beaches, vibrant culture, low cost of living, and expanding economy, the country has become an increasingly popular choice for those looking to live, work, or retire abroad.

Why choose the Philippines?

Many expatriates are drawn to the Philippines for its:

• Affordable cost of living compared to Western countries and neighboring Asian nations.
• High English proficiency, as English is one of the country’s official languages.
• Warm climate and picturesque natural landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and rainforests.
• Growing economy, with opportunities in business, technology, tourism, and outsourcing.
• Friendly local community, with Filipinos known for their hospitality and vibrant social culture.

Which Visa Do You Need for Your Relocation to the Philippines?

If you’re considering relocating, securing the right visa is essential. Depending on your purpose of stay, different visa options are available:

Temporary Non-Immigrant Visas

• 9G Pre-Arranged Employment Visa – Required for expatriates hired by Philippine companies.
• Student Visa (9F) – For international students pursuing higher education in the country.

Immigrant Visas

• 13A Permanent Resident Visa – Available for foreign spouses of Filipino citizens.
• Quota Visa – Granted to 50 nationals per year based on special skills or contributions to the economy.

Special Visas

• SRRV (Special Resident Retiree Visa) – Ideal for retirees who meet specific financial requirements.
• Investor Visas – Including the Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV), which allows foreign investors to reside in the country based on investments in Philippine industries.

For the latest regulations, visit the Philippine Bureau of Immigration website or the nearest Philippine Embassy in your home country. 

Accommodation in the Philippines

The Philippines offers a range of housing options, from modern condominiums in urban centers to beachfront properties in tourist hubs. Key factors to consider when searching for a home include:

• Security and accessibility: Many expatriates opt for condominiums in gated communities.
• Climate considerations: Air-conditioning is a must in most parts of the country.
• Lease terms: Long-term rentals typically require a one-year lease with a security deposit.
• Reputable real estate agencies: Consider services such as Colliers Philippines or Santos Knight Frank to help navigate the local property market.
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Expatriates looking to purchase property in the Philippines face restrictions, as land ownership is generally reserved for Filipino citizens. However, foreigners can legally own condominiums and buildings, or purchase property through a corporation with at least 60% Filipino ownership.

Where to settle in the Philippines?

Manila – The bustling capital city with numerous job opportunities, modern amenities, and international schools.

Cebu – A fast-growing business hub offering a balance between urban life and beachfront relaxation.

Davao – Known for its safety, lower cost of living, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Baguio – A cooler alternative, offering a mountain retreat with an expat-friendly atmosphere.

Palawan – Ideal for those looking for a relaxed, nature-centric lifestyle with world-famous beaches.

(To be continued!)

Die Philippinen, ein Archipel mit über 7.000 Inseln, bieten eine einzigartige Mischung aus hispanischen, amerikanischen und asiatischen Einflüssen und sind damit ein beliebtes Reiseziel für Expatriates, Rentner und digitale Nomaden. Mit seinen tropischen Stränden, seiner lebendigen Kultur, seinen niedrigen Lebenshaltungskosten und seiner expandierenden Wirtschaft ist das Land eine immer beliebtere Wahl für diejenigen geworden, die im Ausland leben, arbeiten oder ihren Ruhestand verbringen möchten.

Warum die Philippinen wählen?

Viele Expatriates zieht es aufgrund der folgenden Faktoren auf die Philippinen:

Erschwingliche Lebenshaltungskosten im Vergleich zu westlichen Ländern und benachbarten asiatischen Staaten.

Hohe Englischkenntnisse, da Englisch eine der Amtssprachen des Landes ist.

Warmklima und malerische Naturlandschaften, darunter Strände, Berge und Regenwälder.

Wachsende Wirtschaft mit Möglichkeiten in den Bereichen Wirtschaft, Technologie, Tourismus und Outsourcing.

Freundliche lokale Gemeinschaft, wobei die Filipinos für ihre Gastfreundschaft und lebendige Sozialkultur bekannt sind.

Leben auf den Philippinen

Welches Visum benötigen Sie für Ihren Umzug auf die Philippinen?

Wenn Sie einen Umzug in Erwägung ziehen, ist es wichtig, das richtige Visum zu erhalten. Je nach Aufenthaltszweck stehen Ihnen verschiedene Visaoptionen zur Verfügung:

Temporäre Nichteinwanderungsvisa

9G Pre-Arranged Employment Visa – Erforderlich für Expatriates, die von philippinischen Unternehmen eingestellt werden.

Studentenvisum (9F) – Für internationale Studenten, die im Land eine Hochschulausbildung absolvieren.

Einwanderungsvisa

13A Permanent Resident Visa – Verfügbar für ausländische Ehepartner philippinischer Staatsbürger.

Quotenvisum – Wird 50 Staatsbürgern pro Jahr aufgrund besonderer Fähigkeiten oder Beiträge zur Wirtschaft gewährt.

Sondervisa

SRRV (Special Resident Retiree Visa) – Ideal für Rentner, die bestimmte finanzielle Anforderungen erfüllen.

Investorenvisa – Einschließlich des Special Investor’s Resident Visa (SIRV), das ausländischen Investoren aufgrund von Investitionen in philippinische Industrien einen Aufenthalt im Land ermöglicht.

Die neuesten Bestimmungen finden Sie auf der Website des philippinischen Einwanderungsbüros oder der nächstgelegenen philippinischen Botschaft in Ihrem Heimatland.

Unterkunft auf den Philippinen

Die Philippinen bieten eine Reihe von Wohnmöglichkeiten, von modernen Eigentumswohnungen in Stadtzentren bis hin zu Strandgrundstücken in Touristenzentren. Wichtige Faktoren, die bei der Suche nach einem Zuhause berücksichtigt werden sollten, sind:

Sicherheit und Zugänglichkeit: Viele Expatriates entscheiden sich für Eigentumswohnungen in geschlossenen Wohnanlagen.

Klimaaspekte: In den meisten Teilen des Landes ist eine Klimaanlage ein Muss.

Mietvertragslaufzeit: Langzeitmieten erfordern in der Regel einen einjährigen Mietvertrag mit Kaution.

Seriöse Immobilienagenturen: Ziehen Sie Dienste wie Colliers Philippines oder Santos Knight Frank in Betracht, um sich auf dem lokalen Immobilienmarkt zurechtzufinden.

Cebu, Philippinen

Expatriates, die auf den Philippinen Immobilien erwerben möchten, unterliegen Beschränkungen, da der Landbesitz im Allgemeinen philippinischen Staatsbürgern vorbehalten ist. Ausländer können jedoch legal Eigentumswohnungen und Gebäude besitzen oder Immobilien über ein Unternehmen erwerben, das zu mindestens 60 % in philippinischem Besitz ist.

Wo kann man sich auf den Philippinen niederlassen?

Manila – Die geschäftige Hauptstadt mit zahlreichen Beschäftigungsmöglichkeiten, modernen Annehmlichkeiten und internationalen Schulen.

Cebu – Ein schnell wachsender Geschäftsknotenpunkt, der eine Balance zwischen Stadtleben und Entspannung am Strand bietet.

Davao – Bekannt für seine Sicherheit, niedrigeren Lebenshaltungskosten und wunderschöne Natur.

Baguio – Eine coolere Alternative, die einen Rückzugsort in den Bergen mit einer auswandererfreundlichen Atmosphäre bietet.

Palawan – Ideal für alle, die einen entspannten, naturverbundenen Lebensstil mit weltberühmten Stränden suchen.

(Fortsetzung folgt!)

HAVING A MISTAKEN OR WRONG IMPRESSION

To get the wrong impression means to misunderstand or "misread" somebody's words or actions. For example, to be offended by something that wasn't meant to offend. To give the wrong impression, therefore, means to mislead someone in this way, often unintentionally.

A mistaken belief accompanies each and every one of us daily. Incorrect decisions and wrong doings are part of our daily life. First impressions are likely to be wrong as they are based on shallow assumptions about appearances, according to one leading expert. Professor Alex Todorov, from Princeton University, said faces that appear happy, even if they're not smiling, are commonly rated as trustworthy.

 

It is almost a ridiculous fact that man wants to know certain truths about mundane things. But really he seems least interested in even mundane truths as can be read many times in newspapers for example. There seem to be too many rash judgments, and the readers absorb these and make these their own. A fatal attraction!

 

This is sometimes referred to as journalistic mentality wherein accusations are generously made without proof. Evolution started this trend, when scientists stated for example that man evolved from the apes, without proof. The only proof they had was the missing link, and if I am not mistaken, it's still a missing proof until now.

 

To look for proofs is a mental activity, which is no longer a common thing nowadays, because it takes really time, effort and is too serious to think about. Yet in Christian education, thinking right is very important.That's why Philosophy is important in Christian life. To avoid error in thinking, the rules of right reasoning must be studied and mastered. Is it really totally neglected in today's modern education?

 

Thinking is actually an enjoyable activity but when one is pressured to get a good job for one's sustenance, then the other more mundane becomes attractive. After all, great thinkers often do not get (good?) jobs… .

 

Spiritual writers like the British Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834) noticed that mankind had stopped thinking even two centuries ago. That was during his age. Man probably stopped thinking even earlier. He has ceased many times to search for the truth. It's easier to listen to gossip and believe in it. What a sign of weak minds!

 

Too often are we blind to the truth and as a consequence we easily believe in lies we only have to like it. Too bad, if people always like to close their eyes and ears especially while experiencing the delusion of error.

PH tourism poised for robust growth

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Feb 17, 2025 07:36 AM

  

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Tourism has long been a cornerstone of the Philippine economy, serving as a vital engine for growth and development. In 2024, the sector achieved a historic milestone, generating an unprecedented ₱760.5 billion in revenues, a 126.75 percent recovery rate from pre-pandemic levels. This remarkable performance underscores the sector’s resilience and its pivotal role in the nation’s economic resurgence. 

Despite these achievements, the Philippines continues to face challenges when compared to its ASEAN neighbors. As of December 2023, the country recorded 5.45 million tourist arrivals, placing it seventh in the region. In contrast, Thailand welcomed 28 million visitors, Malaysia 20 million, Singapore 13.6 million, and Vietnam 12.6 million. These figures highlight the competitive landscape of Southeast Asian tourism and the need for strategic enhancements to bolster the Philippines’ standing.

Addressing these disparities requires comprehensive policy reforms and targeted initiatives. During the recent  Kapihan sa Manila Prince Hotel forum, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco outlined key strategies in the National Tourism Development Plan for 2023-2028 aimed at upgrading tourism infrastructure, including the improvement of airports, seaports, and road networks, to facilitate seamless travel experiences for both domestic and international tourists. While promoting our rich cultural heritage, the country’s  position as a top global destination is advanced significantly.

Secretary Frasco also emphasized the importance of digitalization in modernizing tourism services. The Department of Tourism (DOT) is actively developing digital platforms to provide real-time information, streamline booking processes, and offer virtual tours, thereby catering to the evolving preferences of tech-savvy travelers. 

Furthermore, the DOT is committed to diversifying tourism products by promoting lesser-known destinations and cultural experiences. This approach not only alleviates congestion in traditional hot spots but also distributes economic benefits to rural communities, fostering inclusive growth. 

The Philippines has emerged as a leading player in the regional tourism sector, surpassing its Southeast Asian counterparts with a contribution of approximately ₱4.31 trillion (or $78 billion) to the national GDP. Moreover, the sector’s resilience is highlighted by a 111 percent recovery in visitor receipts, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. She explained that domestic and international visitor receipts amounted to over ₱3.36 trillion, generating substantial revenue for businesses, supporting livelihoods, and creating tourism-related jobs. In 2023, she added, the tourism industry provided employment for around 6.21 million Filipinos, accounting for 6.4 percent of the total employment increase as compared to 2022. In turn, this has generated downstream employment for around 16 million Filipinos as reckoned in the first quarter of 2024.

Sec. Frasco expressed optimism about surpassing the target of 7.7 million international tourist arrivals for 2024. She said that while challenges such as visa policies and infrastructure development persist, the DOT remains committed to addressing these issues and expanding connectivity, including the recent Manila-Paris direct flight.

The upcoming ASEAN Summit in 2026, which the Philippines is set to host, presents a significant opportunity to showcase the nation’s tourism offerings on a global stage and accelerate initiatives to ensure that infrastructure and services meet international standards. A restored budget of  ₱500 million will go a long way toward conducting tourism campaigns, particularly in key markets such as Europe. 

While the Philippine tourism sector has demonstrated commendable resilience and growth, there remains substantial potential for advancement. By implementing strategic infrastructure improvements, embracing digital innovations, diversifying tourism offerings, and securing necessary funding, the Philippines can elevate its position within the ASEAN region and ensure that tourism continues to be a driving force for economic prosperity.

69 candidates compete for title of Miss Universe Philippines 2025

BY ANNALYN S. JUSAY

Feb 17, 2025 11:29 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• A total of 69 women from all over the country introduced themselves to the media in an event dubbed "The Reveal" which was held at Makati Shang-ri La hotel.

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Miss Universe Philippines officially kicked off the exciting pageant season with yesterday's press presentation of its lovely delegates for 2025.

A total of 69 women from all over the country introduced themselves to the media in an event dubbed "The Reveal" which was held at Makati Shang-ri La hotel. One of them will be vying for the much-coveted crown and a chance to represent the country at the 74th Miss Universe in Pak Kret, Thailand, on Nov. 21. 

Here's the video of the Press Presentation held on Feb. 15 as posted on the MUPH official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/15gaZ2B2jH/

This year's edition of MUPH is also much-awaited for having the biggest number of pageant veterans joining the 2025 competition. These include Teresita Ssen "Winwyn" Marquez who is making a comeback eight years after being the first Asian to bag the Reina Hispanoamericana 2017 title in Bolivia; crowd favorite Ma. Ahtisa Manalo who was Miss International 2018 first runner-up and finished second runner-up in MUPH 2024;  and 2023 Miss Earth-Air Yllana Marie Aduana.

Avid fans coined the Tagalog term "puksaan" to describe the "annihilation" that's going to happen on the way to the grand coronation night which will be held in the first week of May.

MUPH executive vice president Voltaire Tayag commented on this, saying: "This year, there are a lot of former queens who have won both in local and international pageants. When they ask us for advice, we tell them that no one can stop them from pursuing their plans. But we also cannot promise or guarantee what the results will be. I can stand here and be very proud to say that in Miss Universe Philippines, it is always the judges that have a final say."  

Also announced was the appointment of Miss Universe 2013 3rd runner-up and actress Ariella "Ara" Arida as MUPH's new national director for training and development.

In her acceptance remarks, Ara stated: " I salute all the girls for joining and for pursuing their dreams. Hopefully, we get our fifth Miss Universe crown from this year's batch. And of course, this will be possible with all your effort, with all your help. And of course, with me over here. I  promise to really do my best  to help the organization, to be a leader, to inspire and to grow together with the team and together with the ladies out here."

The contestants competing for Miss Universe Philippines 2025 are the following: 

1. Rani Lachmi Dado (Albay)

2. Ira de Castro (Angeles City)

3. Louise Lian Bobe (Bacolod City) 

4. Natsumi Sekiguchi (Bacoor City)

5. Kayla Jane Usison (Bago City/ Filipino society of San Francisco)

6. Gwendoline Soriano (Baguio City)

7. Yana Ysabel Maranan (Batangas)

8. Yoshabel Lebico (Basey, Samar)

9. Maiko Ibarde (Benguet)

10. Tyra Goldman (Bohol)

11. Franchezca Mae Pacheco (Bulacan)

12. Jadine Lezz Banagan (Butuan City)

13. Maica Martinez (Cabanatuan City)

14. Allyson Ee (Caloocan/ Filipino society of Northern California)

15. Karenza de Leon (Camarines Norte/ Filipino society of Australia)

16. Shaina Ong Rabacal (Camarines Sur)

17. Larsine Grace Jensen (Camiguin)

18. Jezreal de Ocampo (Cavite)

19. Gabriella Mai Carballo (Cebu City)

20. Chella Falconer (Cebu Province)

21. Angeleyh Caballero Pasco (Davao/Filipino society of Hawaii)

22.Jazzle Shannen Taga Iba (Dipolog City)

23. Shamara Krupa (Dumaguete City)

24. Princess Luab Ibrahim (Zamboanga del Sur)

25. Valerie Claire West (Ifugao/Filipino society of New York)

26. Juliana Fresado (Iligan City)

27. Jeanne Nicole Perez Lipa (Ilocos Sur/ Filipino society of Washington)

28. Karen Nicole Piccio (Iloilo City)

29. Angeline Cordero Kailani (Iloilo Province/Filipino society of England)

30. Jarina Sandhu (Isabela)

31. MJ Fernandez (Kalibo, Aklan)

32. Eloisa Jauod (Laguna)

33. Natasha Testa (Lapu-Lapu City)

34. Rayanne Kristel David (Las Pinas/Filipino society of Canada-West)

35. Victoria Maelona Johnson (Leyte/Filipino society of Florida)

36. Pauline Rowbelle del Mundo (Liliw,Laguna/ Filipino society of New Jersey)

37. Rendelle Ann Caraig (Los Banos, Laguna)

38. Bella dela Cruz (Lucena City)

39. Taylor Marie De Luna (Malay, Aklan/ Filipino society of Southern California)

40. Jasmine Paguio (Manila)

41. Teresita Ssen Marquez (Muntinlupa)

42. Kaye Pastelero (Naic,Cavite)

43. Zoe Sofia Gabon (Naga City)

44. Franches Anne Laquibla (Negros Occidental)

45. Chanel Olive Thomas (Nueva Ecija/Filipino society of Melbourne)

46. Ain Niqyla Abad (Occidental Mindoro)

47. Rechel Hoco (Oriental Mindoro)

48. Irish Raine Sescon (Ozamis City)

49. Rhancoise Mayangitan (Pampanga)

50. Andrea Cayabyab (Pangasinan)

51. Jenny Kim Agasid (Paranaque)

52. Amanda Russo (Pasay/Filipino society of Pennsylvania)

53. Alessandra Eugenio (Pasig)

54. Zoe Honeyman (Quezon City)

55. Ma. Ahtisa Manalo (Quezon Province)

56. Bianca Ysabella Ylanan (Quirino)

57. Mariah Nicole Valdez (Romblon)

58. Kathreen Kaye Dacanay (Samar Island)

59. Thelma Suzanne Dayao (San Fernando, Cebu)

60. Jessica Victoria Cianchino (San Jose Batangas/Filipino society of Canada-East)

61. Millien Joy Cabigas (Siargao)

62. Yllana Marie Aduana (Siniloan, Laguna)

63. Chelsea Fernandez (Sultan Kudarat)

64. Angela Norwillen Cabel (Tacloban City)

65. Ma. Katrina Llegado (Taguig)

66. Danelle Ann Catalan (Tandag City, Surigao Del Sur)

67. Sasha Lacuna (Tarlac)

68. Thea Samantha Lacanlalay (Tuguegarao City)

69. KC de Fiesta (Zamboanga City)

BORN IN ALICIA, Bohol: Kini Ang Akong Suliran

 BORN IN ALICIA, Bohol: Kini Ang Akong Suliran

Dra. Atty. Lourdes Libres Rosaroso (11 February 1935 – 20 August 2010) was a Filipino radio broadcaster, lawyer, and doctor. Rosaroso was also an educator, being the owner of the St. Paul College Foundation, Inc. (now the University of Cebu – Pardo–Talisay) which also had campuses in different parts of Metro Cebu.

Rosaroso was popular for her radio program Kini ang Akong Suliran (This Is My Problem), which ran for almost 35 years. The program provided assistance for underprivileged listeners with their medical and legal problems. Broadcast on many Cebu-based radio stations, the program aired longest on radio DyHP under the Radio Mindanao Network (RMN).

Aside from being a broadcaster, Rosaroso also established herself as an educator, through her St. Paul College Foundation Inc., which she formed in 1985.

reference source: wikipedia

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Experience the magic of Hans Zimmer’s Music Live with The Hollywood Orchestra

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Feb 17, 2025 10:12 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Hans Zimmer’s music has defined cinematic history, and now, audiences will get to immerse themselves in his masterful compositions performed by a world-class orchestra.

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'The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others'

Manila, get ready for a breathtaking musical experience!  

The Hollywood Orchestra presents “The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others”, a spectacular live concert celebrating the timeless and iconic film scores of the legendary composer, happening on July 7 and July 8 at the historic Manila Metropolitan Theater.

Hans Zimmer’s music has defined cinematic history, and now, audiences will get to immerse themselves in his masterful compositions performed by a world-class orchestra. 

From the heart-pounding intensity of “Pirates of the Caribbean” and “Inception” to the sweeping grandeur of “Interstellar,” “Gladiator,” and “The Lion King,” this one-of-a-kind concert will take you on an unforgettable journey through the soundscapes of cinema.

But that’s not all—this is more than just a concert. Expect a stunning visual spectacle featuring select film clips, breathtaking illumination and laser projections, and even surprise soloists (perhaps a familiar pirate?) who will elevate Zimmer’s legendary scores in an extraordinary way.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness the full symphonic experience of Hans Zimmer’s music—live! 

This concert is made possible through the collaboration of KBEAM Events and Star Entertainment. Since 2015, KBEAM Events has been at the forefront of staging world-class music acts in the Philippines, bringing iconic performances such as Thrice Live in Manila, Bianca del Rio’s Dead Inside Tour, Aaron Carter Live in Manila, and Andy Brown Live in Manila.

Star Entertainment, a renowned international concert and cultural event producer since 1999, has organized legendary performances worldwide. Their impressive portfolio includes classical operas like Aida, Carmen, and The Magic Flute, as well as timeless musicals such as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar. With partnerships spanning prestigious venues like Waldbühne Berlin, Théâtre Antique d’Orange, Salzburg Festspielhaus, DR Koncerthuset in Copenhagen, and Salle Pleyel in Paris, Star Entertainment continues to elevate the global concert scene.

In addition to “The Music of Hans Zimmer & Others”, the orchestra is set to present “The Music of The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit In Concert” and “The Magical Music of Harry Potter In Concert”, promising more unforgettable nights of cinematic symphony.

Tickets are still available at Ticketmelon.com. Seats are limited so better secure your passes today.