Yesterday, on Facebook, somebody made a comment and asked why I am an expat, and not an immigrant. I pointed him to this article, which I originally published in December 2010, so about 5 1/2 years ago. It is still very relevant today, and sums up the way I feel. So, I thought I’d re-share it for new LiP readers who were not around in 2010. Enjoy.
Yes, you read the title correctly, I have decided that I am not going to be an expat anymore. I’ve grown tired of it. It’s just not for me. I have nothing wrong with an expat, or even being an expat myself if the situation were right. However, in my current state, I just don’t think I want to be an expat in the Philippines. Been there, done that… even got the T-Shirt! Enough.
In the past couple of years, I have thought about people like my grandparents who came over to the USA from Ireland, back in the days when the only way to do so was on a boat. They did it, and as far as I know they never went back to Ireland. They became part of the great Melting Pot that is the USA. They became Americans. Nothing shameful about having left the country of their birth, they had a new country, a new home. They were immigrants. I would guess that those grandparents of mine never considered themselves to be “expats,” but always thought of themselves as immigrants to the USA.
Over the past couple of years there has been a sort of debate about what an expat is. There truly are a lot of different definitions out there of what an expat is. Some have a negative connotation. Most definitions, though, are not negative at all, rather neutral. Let’s look at some definitions out there:
Google says:
Expats – An expatriate (in abbreviated form, expat) is a person temporarily or permanently residing in a country and culture other than that of the person’s upbringing or legal residence. The word comes from the Latin term expatriātus from ‘ (“out of”) and ‘ the ablative case of ”” (“country, fatherland”).
OK, fair enough for me. In my case, I would say, though, that I am not living outside my country of legal residence, as I am a legal permanent resident of the Philippines, complete with the papers to prove me so!
The Free Dictionary says:
- To send into exile. See Synonyms at banish.
- To remove (oneself) from residence in one’s native land.
Well, certainly I am not in exile, nor have I been banished! Part two… maybe.
Wikipedia says:
An expatriate (in abbreviated form, expat) is a person temporarily or permanently residing in a country and culture other than that of the person’s upbringing or legal residence. The word comes from the Latin term expatriātus from ex (“out of”) and patriā the ablative case of patria (“country, fatherland”).
Pretty much same as Google… and my feelings are the same too. It’s the “legal residence” that I feel does not apply to me again.
YourDictionary says:
- to drive (a person) from his or her native land; exile
- to withdraw (oneself) from one’s native land or from allegiance to it
Nah, that’s not me either. I don’t think I was “driven” from the USA, and I would not think of moving here as having “withdrawn” myself either.
Merriam Webster says:
- to withdraw (oneself) from residence in or allegiance to one’s native country
- to leave one’s native country to live elsewhere; also : to renounce allegiance to one’s native country
Nope, not me. Certainly the part about “renouncing allegiance,” I have done nothing of the sort.
So, what am I? As I said at the beginning of this article, I have come to feel that I am not really an expat. I feel that “expat” seems to carry the connotation that you are returning in the long run, your time in the new country is temporary. It seems to say that you are somewhere other than your home.
The Philippines is my home, there is no doubt in my mind about that. So, that leaves me feeling that the term “expat” does not really describe who I am. I have no negative feeling about the word, but I just feel it does not describe me anymore.
So, again, what am I? I have come to the conclusion that I am just like my grandparents who came on the boat from Ireland to the USA. I am an Immigrant. I am an Immigrant to the Philippines. I moved here and made it my new home. I’m not talking about citizenship, although as I have mentioned many times, I am considering that in time. Right now, I am just talking about what my status is right now. Since I consider the Philippines to be my permanent home, I think I’ll think of myself in the future as an Immigrant, rather than an expat!
Hi Bob – Oh boy, now I feel crap with the title of my article (Expats in the city). He he. But anyway, my understanding of the term ‘expat’ is that they are foreigners living in another country for period of time. Here in the Phils, most that I know are just working for a big corporation until their time is up. But yes, calling you an expat is funny because you lived here, been here for 10 years? You are as much like a local now. You are an immigrant of the country. Thinking of becoming one? Whatever you decide, whether to become a citizen of the country or not, you are always well loved by people.
Hi Sugar – Thanks! Yep, I’ve actually been here over 10 years… coming up on 11 in a few months now!
Darn. I thought you were going to try and denounce your citizenship! 😉
Ha ha.. not at this time, John!
Can’t argue with that, if your ACR card is like mine, it states:
Visa Status: Immigrant
Visa Valid Until: Permanent
Yep, that’s what mine says, Gary!
Bob
You are a true immigrant in the sense of the word. Because you are a great contributor and asset to the philippine society.
Thank you Randy. I appreciate your kind words.
So far I am just a tourist. Expat is a name someone else has put on me. No plans to go back to the States but never is a long time. I like it here and hope to get a 13a visa someday soon. THEN I will no longer be a tourist and that will be the end of the every 2 month visit to B of I in Davao. Happy Day!
73,
Gary
Hi Gary – Good plan!!!
Bob,
I find the analogy of your grandparents to be thought provoking. While one can disect terms such as expat, or immigrant, it is really just semantics. Still, in the countries most of us hail from, when citizens discuss immigrants, the majority appear to feel that the immigrant should embrace the desire to become a citizen. I’m not going to go further than this in discussion, for now, because I am far more interested in how others consider the subject. I am especially interested in the opinions of the Filipino contributors. Do they feel that we, who move to the Philippines, should be striving for citizenship? Would they prefer that we did/did not become citizens?
Hi Mike – In my dealings with and discussions with Filipinos, if you mention that you have thoughts of becoming a citizen it is shocking to them. I think that Filipinos have an almost zero expectation that any foreigner would want to become a citizen here.
Bob,
I asked Jeanne what she thought about this. I reminded her of what she told me on the day that she took her oath of allegiance for her Canadian citizenship; that she would always be a Filipina in her heart. I never did tell her that, on that day, I was torn between thoughts of disappointment that she didn’t view the day as monumental and that her new citizenship wasn’t embraced as one of the greatest gifts she’d ever received, conversely, recognizing that I would find it difficult to ever place the citizenship of another country on par with the citizenship of my birthright.
When I asked her what her opinion was on my pending immigrant status in The Philippines; whether she thought that landed immigrant status should be reserved for those who genuinely wish to become citizens or continued as a convenience for foreigners who wanted to live there, indefinitely, but not embrace citizenship, she had no answer. I asked her to raise the question with her barkada when she saw them today and, as I mentioned previously, am interested in whether Filipino contributors to this magazine have an opinion on the matter.
I’ve also been asking myself a question all day. Would I be willing to fully commit myself to being a citizen of the Philippines? Would I be willing to defend my adopted country in war or remain through civil war, martial law, natural disasters, epidemics, take the bad with the good, or would I use my Canadian citizenship and run in times of trouble? In simplest form, If I expect people migrating to Canada to fully commit themselves to Canada, shouldn’t I be willing to do the same in The Philippines? I’ve got no answer. Unfortunately, I am a person who strongly believes in principles , so I can no longer strive to attain an immigrant visa until I appreciate that I am willing to commit to Philippine citizenship & all that that entails for me. So, I may have to continue the Balikbayan visa routine. Like I said before, a very thought-provoking article, Bob.
Hi Mike – We have different thinking on this, I think it’s a Canadian vs. US thing. To my mind, Immigrant and Citizen have nothing to do with each other. One can be an Immigrant for life without any consideration of plans for citizenship. That’s how it is in the US where I came from, and in my mind that is how it is. It is obvious to me that your thinking is quite different than mine, that if you are to consider yourself an immigrant, you should be working on becoming a citizen.
I do believe that an immigrant should have some dedication to being a good part of the society where he immigrates to, and such, though, and I try to live that way. I’m not always successful, but I do try!
I am glad that my article made you consider your pending move, and the ramifications for you. Thinking is always a good thing!
LOL No, Bob, it is not a Canadian vs. USA thing, I’m not sure how you came up with that as, historically, the US is more of a melting pot, Canada a multi-cultural country. But, I do agree that I view immigration & citizenship as linked, whereas, you do not. To each his own. I am not re-considering my move, however, only whether to attain an immigrant visa, or not.
Bob,
I’ve bitten my tongue for too long. You seem to have issues with dissenting views and are offensive in your responses to same. I’m tired of it. So, erase my membership & the link to my gallery & I’ll wish you the best in your future and call it a day, here.
Wow, Mike! I thought we were just having a discussion. I didn’t think I said anything negative to you at all. You expressed your opinion, I expressed mine, and I also compared our feelings. I thought I said everything in a nice way, and you up and want to quit! Wow… I have no idea where that came from. Truth be told.. I thought we were friends. I don’t see how anything I said could be construed to be offensive. Oh well, whatever I said to upset you, I apologize, although I honestly have no idea for what I am apologizing. But, I do know that I certainly did not mean to offend you.
Wow.
Bob- if I understand what you told Mike- you said that he thinks differently than you do because he is a Canadian- and you are an American ?
I have to admit that altho I was not born in Canada I lived there most of my life, and I believe this is the first time I have ever heard someone say that someone had a certain opinion because of their citizenship!
But I would be interested in hearing from you just exactly how Canadians do think ! Because i sure dont know ! lol
Hi Bob – Maybe Mike had a bad day? Must be something with Canadian thing that got him riled up. I don’t know. But, as for me I didn’t t read anything offensive ever ever ever from you. So ‘m really guessing must be that mention of Canada? Oh well.
Dave (Starr) said “This can be a very emotional and at times even contentious subject.. ” (referring to the subject of Philippine citizenship when the subject came up ). How right he is. Again, maybe Mike just having bad day. But yeah, wow. Thanks, Bob.
I am not sure what Mike thought. He must have thought I insulted him in some way, but I surely did not mean to do so.
Bob
You are correct in what you say. We have millions of immigrants in the US who are Leagal Permenant Residents but have no intention of becoming citizens. I have no problem with that as long as they are productive citizens and not criminals. If they are criminals they should be removed.
That is certainly my impression, Randy. Like you, I have no problem with it, as long as the person is law abiding, and a good part of society.
Mike – Bob is right. As a local, I would be shock if a foreigner tells me he/she is considering to become a Filipino Citizen. As really most locals would not expect it from a foreigner. As a local, I wish some foreigners would become citizen. Why? So they can vote and own lands and do things that usually prohibits any foreigners from doing so. That’s mainly it.
Do I feel that a foreigner who becomes an immigrant (here) should become a citizen of the country? NO! of course not. It’s a personal choice and decision. You don’t have to be Philippine citizen to embrace living and to fully commit yourself to the country. Shallow. I think.
Like I said, what does it matter (principles or not) whether one renounces citizenship or does not. The mere fact that people like Bob, loves the country and the Filipinos, and appreciates and cares for the locals, the govt and all, is a testament of how committed he is to the country.
As for fighting wars.. he he what wars, Americans always helps us.
Sugar
When I eventually live permanantly in the Philippines I will embrace the culture and the people to the fullest and be productive. I would’nt mind becoming a citizen if I didn’t have to renounce my US Citizenship. By the way I like your photo.
I finally made it back here and loving it here already. All the wonderful smiling faces, good attitudes and $5.00 massages can’t be beat. Now I was very curious about your post today because based on your previous posts on this subject your attitude seems to suggest you truly are an expat as you don’t think you’ll ever be returning to the U.S.A. You have made it abundantly clear this is your home forever. You have said on a couple of occasions you are seriously thinking of becoming a Philippine citizen which would require the renouncing of your U.S. Citizenship. Well, for me no matter how long I might live in the Philippines, love the Philippines, feel it is my home for the rest of my life would I even give a nanonsecond of thought to giving up my citizenship in the U.S.A unless the Philippines decides to level the playing field as the U.S.A does and give foreigners the opportunity for citizenship without having them give up their original citizenship then perhaps I might consider it. Other than that it makes no sense and I think wouyld be extremely foolish for anyone to consider. You are still so young to take something like U.S.A citizenship for granted no matter how much you love this place.
Hi Dwayne – The USA requires that you renounce your citizenship to become a Citizen of the US. That’s why to become a Philippine dual citizen you must “re-aquire” citizenship, because under the laws of the US, you lose whatever citizenship you had when you take the oath of US Citizenship. So the playing field is level now.
I don’t think that becoming a citizen of the country where you live is foolish. Was it foolish for your ancestors who came to the USA to become US citizens? I doubt that you would say it was. I don’t take US citizenship for granted, that is why it is a tough decision for me, and why I have been considering it for a long time.
It’s a personal decision, Dwayne. I would never even think of trying to dictate to you what you should do. Not sure why you think you should dictate to me.
Well I am truly confused. I do know for a fact that for example if your parents have different citizenship then by birthright their child can aquire both those citizenships. My brothers daughter has in fact 3 different citizenships. His wife is both a Canadian and French citizen and my brother is American. Their daughter was born in France and got her french Canadian and U.S.A citizenship there just by going to the embassies and applying. My Mother married an Italian and has Italian citizenship in addition to her American citizenship. That says to me you can have dual citizenships. All the Filipinos I know who became American citizens have easily reaquired their Filipino citizenships. So are you saying that if you became a Philippines citizen and renounced your American Citizenship that you could later just go to the U.S Consulate and reapply??? If so then by all means you should become a Filipino citizen. I certainly would so I could pretty much do what I please without fear of being blackmailed or thrown out of the country on some whim of someone that doesn’t like my hair color. I’ve seen it happen here.
Hi Dwayne… you are confusing a lot of things there, my friend. Your assumptions are incorrect. If you successfully renounce your citizenship (it is very hard to renounce US Citizenship), you cannot go back and just re-apply. Once you renounce you are not any different from any other non-US citizen, and it is difficult to then get US Citizenship. The difference in getting multiple citizenships at birth is that you have taken action to renounce your US citizenship. A child who is born eligible to be citizens of multiple countries has taken no action to do so, nor has he taken any action to renounce any of those citizenships. Once you actively take steps to renounce US citizenship, and you become successful in doing so… if you go reapply, they will likely laugh at you, because it ain’t gonna happen! 😉
If you were to become a citizen of the Philippines, they cannot kick you out of the country for any reason. You are a citizen just like Juan de la Cruz, and you have all the rights of any other citizen – well, almost… you can’t run for President.
Seems like a bunch of double standards out there. but it seems the lousy end of this DS still resides with the Philippines as the Philippines knows full well that an American would have to give up their U.S citizenship permanently to become a Filipino citizen and could not get it back. Unlike any returning Filipino can reaquire theirs without giving up their aquired U.S. citizenship. Now that is a double standard. There really should be reciprocity between these two countries to be fair. Again if I could have Filipino citizenship without forfeiting my U.S that would be a nobrainer and you along with most other married foreigners here having residence would probably pursue that as well. How does Mindanao Governor, Senator or Congressman Bob Martin sound
Hi Dwayne – Ha ha… sorry, my friend, but the problem is US law, not Philippine law. 7 or 8 years ago, everything was identical. Then the Philippines passed a law that said that Filipinos who had given up their citizenship can re-obtain it. If the US passed the same law, US citizens could re-obtain it too, but the US has no such law. All the US has to do is pass a law so that former US citizens can re-acquire their citizenship. The Philippines laws have nothing to do with it.
Mindanao Governor? Well, Mindanao has 28 different Governors, because there are 28 Provinces (same as States, more or less) and each Province has a Governor. But.. truth is, I would not want the job, even if I could have it.
Bob, you and Dwayne are close but not quite correct. The problem is not U.S. law. No country’s law is controlling on another country without some type of treaty. And even then a treaty can be broken but the offending countries still retain their own laws and sovereignty without infringing on the other.
Yes, it is true that the United States does require the naturalizing applicant for U.S. citizenship to renounce all other citizenships. But this provision is NEVER or almost never enforced by the U.S. on the individual. And even if it was in some individual exceptional case, the provision to renounce is absolutely not controlling on any other sovereign state such as the Philippines or anywhere else for that matter. True, the Philippines considers the renouncement to actually mean that one has relinquished their Philippines citizenship. But my point is that is a choice on the part of the Philippines to handle their renouncements that way and not because of any law of the U.S. Again U.S. law does not govern internal policy in any other sovereign state, never has never will. So my point is that if the Philippines decided tomorrow to change their law so that all renouncements were null and void, then all renouncements would be null and void period.
Case in point: Costa Rica instituted a change in their law in the 90s which made renouncements of Costa Rican citizenship ineffective. In other words Costa Rican citizenship is for life regardless of how many times one renounces and to whom. In fact a constitutional amendment was approved that made citizenship irrevocable regardless of the acquirement of other citizenships or renouncements.
Now, let’s reverse the scenario. What about when one renounces U.S. citizenship to gain another citizenship. Many countries like the U.S. (and as you know including the Philippines too) require one to renounce all current citizenships in the naturalization process. Some countries actually take this renouncement seriously by removing the passport of the former country and/or requiring the naturalizing applicant to conduct the renouncement before his/her own consular officer at his/her applicable embassy. I don’t know in the case of the Philippines but I’m sure you know.
Under U.S. Supreme Court ruling, U.S. law, and State Department policy the act of a U.S. citizen who is renouncing his/her citizenship is absolutely ineffective for the purposes of actually relinquishing/loosing one’s U.S. citizenship unless the act is done before a U.S. consular officer on foreign soil and by one’s own free will (and not just for the purpose of acquiring foreign citizenship). There are other acts so serious and beyond the scope of discussion here which can get you into hot enough water to have your citizenship revoked but we’re not talking about that here. But again there are very strict procedures in place for loss of U.S. citizenship and foreign law is not governing on the loss of U.S. citizenship just as U.S. law is not governing on the loss of foreign citizenship.
Now there are plenty throughout the world who naturalize and retain both citizenships and thus become known as dual citizens through naturalization. The fact that the Philippines actually removes the citizenship of its own citizens because they have naturalized and taken an oath to another country is unusual (and in my opinion completely unnecessary). Most countries do require one to renounce when naturalizing but most (like the U.S.) also recognize dual citizenship and take no action regarding the renouncement and loss of foreign citizenships. And to come full circle, In at least half the countries of the world the original birth country continues to recognize the original citizenship regardless of how many naturalizations the person may acquire in life.
Hi David – Truth is, if I were to become a naturalized Philippine Citizen, I could “renounce” US Citizenship in the way required by the Philippines, yet still be a US citizen, because the USA would not recognize what they require here. So, if I were to become naturalized, I would actually legally be a dual citizen. I have explained it many times on the site how that works.. but it is very technical, and usually only leads to more mis-understanding, so I chose not to get into it this time, to avoid the bickering….
Hi Dwayne,
You said my favourite word, ‘reciprocity’. When it comes to international travel and lving, there are huge inequalities in the rights different countries afford to foreigners. I strongly believe in reciprocity. I believe that if a country won’t allow foreigners to own land, then that country’s citizens should not be allowed to own land in other countries. If a country won’t allow foreigners to become a citizen, then their citizens should be denied citizenship of other countries. If a country won’t give visas for more than two months, then their citizens should only be allowed to get visas to other countries for two months. As long as a country’s citizens are getting far more favourable treatment from other countries, regardless of the meagre rights afforded to foreigners in their country, there will never be any improvement.
I’m not suggesting that this should apply to the Philippines alone – but to all countries. Reciprocity – for a truly level playing field.
I fully agree with this statement!
I think you can divide immigrants between those who do and do not arrive because of economic or political reasons. Look at the US. There are plenty of artists for example, actors, models, musicians, who were successful before moving to the US, and who also did not come to escape an oppressive government. Some will stay, some will return. But if you look at the majority who struggled to arrive in the US just to make a better life for themselves and their family, the majority will never return.
The immigrants to the Philippines also fall into one of those camps. It has to do with how many options a person has.
However, I’ve seen many times in the US immigrants plan to return to their native country after a period of years, planning to save money then return, but life gets in the way. They buy into the US lifestyle, they have children who are raised as American, eventually grandchildren – to return becomes increasingly difficult.
Hi Gary – Interesting thoughts. I don’t know how I would describe what caused me to move to the Philippines. I mean, I didn’t do it for economic reasons, I had no idea that I would be able to do well on an earning basis here, I thought quite the opposite frankly. I had no political reasons to leave either. I just had a desire to seek out a bit of adventure, and learn more about my wife’s culture and homeland.
I think in many ways that matches a large percentage of westerners who venture here to live, excluding those who are hired by corporations or governments. However, one thing that’s generally missing from discussions on this site about immigrants are those who venture here from non-western countries. Some, not all, are seeking better economic opportunities. When you arrive on shore with just the shirt on your back, I think your outlook is a little different.
Hi Gary – Oh, I certainly agree with that! However, it would be hard for me to address what an Indonesian or African were thinking in his reasoning to live here. I have no doubt it would be interesting. The reason why that is missing from this site is because we have no writers from places like that, nor do we really have much readership there. If I found a writer who was from a Bangladesh or Indonesia who chose to live here, I would be happy to accept him as a writer on the site. So far, though, I have not found such a person. You certainly are right, though, that the outlook and discussion would be different in the case of a person like that, though.
Bob,
You mentioned about an Indonesian, i remember i read somewhere that an American husband and his Indonesian wife wants to seek legal residence in the PHILS coz they like the country specially the people, they said in Indonesia even a couple are prohibited to hold hands in public.Another one is my cousin had an Indonesian friend who works in Manila for so many yrs. now and wants to live permanently in the Phils…
And Bob i also want to ask you about the difference between a Filipino expats and an OFW’s coz some people here from your other article replied on my post that i was referring to OFW’s as those who are doing well in promoting the tourism in the Phils that’s why i didn’t reply coz i was confused. Are filipino expats and Ofw’s the same? For me , an OFW are not allowed tobring their families to live abroad and become a citizen of his/her host country unless he/she married to one othem, on the other hand a filipino expats who lived in other countries can bring their families and can apply for citizenship when they’re living there for a couple of yrs if they wanted to …An Ofw’s working in other countries for so many yrs. even more than 20 yrs. are not allowed to apply for citizenship or is it depends on the countries policies and laws……..
Hi rebecca – To be honest, there are so many different definitions of what an expat is… none are “official” or have any legal bearing… so really anybody could consider themselves as an expat, I think. OFW, or anybody else. It just matters, to me, what I consider myself. 😉
There are so many non-Westerners immigrants to the Philippines Bob especially during the Chinese Revolution (at least that’s what I heard from my parents), that’s why we have the Fil-Chinese Communities called Tsinoys. There’s also a large group of Indians or East Asian immigrants. Ronnie Nathanaliesz, the popular newscaster born in Sri Lanka was naturalized during the Marcos years, maybe you could do a little interview with him for LIP hahah.
Ok, just to give my tw0-centavos opinion here, I don’t think Filipinos wouldn’t mind but would rather be surprised if they found out that a Westerner (either from the US or Europe etc.) would like to live in the Philippines more so to acquire a Filipino citizenship. I mean, c’mon, we are a 3rd world country. That’s a fact. Locals in the millions are going out of the country as OFWs (I’m one of them) and immigrants to other western countries to find a living or to upgrade their families’ standard of living. There’s just no good opportunities (employee-wise or business-wise) for locals (i know you gonna argue with this but its really difficult for us). It’s really about the economy being mishandled by the government . Speaking from experience, I watched my parents struggle (and I mean STRUGGLE) just to send us kids to school way up to college (and me ending up with a degree that I’m not using at all). And, I don’t think I can do the same way my parents did in this current economic situation. I took up my course, just to finish college, like most of us do, in my opinion, to have a degree and work in a “9-5 office shift” and receive a minimum-wage monthly salary thus one-day I have just decided that I will be an OFW because I’m sick and tired of all the BS have been going around in the corporate world. If I have my chance of acquiring a citizenship in this country I’m living in right now, I’ll do it just for economical reasons. But it will not mean I will forget or renounce my Philippine Citizenship, in my heart, I will always be a Filipino.
Having said that, most OFWs plans after acquiring some wealth, is to come back to the PH and set-up a business or go to a western country to be an immigrant. It’s just the way it is. Sigh.
Hi jonathan – “Third World Country…” give the Philippines some credit where it is due. Sure, the Philippines lags behind in many areas, but the quality of life here is great, if you can make enough money to support yourself, or bring it with you. I brought a pile with me, and blew most of it away. I have since learned how to earn a living no matter where I live, and I honestly make more money here than I ever made in the States. Saying that… who cares what the rest of the world classifies the Philippines as. Third world.. I don’t care. My life here is enjoyable and a lot more stress free than when I was in the rat race of the USA.
You know what… most Americans never work in the field that they studied in school, so that is not a Philippine thing.
Regarding Citizenship, in almost every country, part of taking the oath of Citizenship is renouncing your current citizenship. So, if you become a citizen where you are now, you will have to renounce your Philippine Citizenship. Luckily, thanks to Philippine law, you can apply to easily re-acquire your Philippine Citizenship, though.
I understand your point Bob. But what I’m saying is, right now, if you’re an average guy working locally it will take you “centuries” to live comfortably, unless you win the lotto prize money. Hardwork + Opportunities is the key to an economically successful life. Filipinos are naturally hardworking, but, the Philippines lack a lot of good opportunities. Remember your country Bob, Uncle Sam, Land of Opportunities? That’s why we flock there and majority succeeds in doing so. Another thing, and I don’t know if you noticed but, Filipinos’ attitude changes when they go abroad by becoming more disciplined. You won’t see them throwing trash, they follow traffic rules, etc etc. It’s just that majority can’t have the same discipline in the PH because, we know, that the police officer on that street corner is getting dirty money, the congressmen are pocketing the pork barrel money that they supposed to use for countrywide development for their constituents and so on. I know you will say, it’s the same as in the US or any other country, but, it is just the way it is. Corruption is so embedded in our culture that it has became a contagious and delipidating disease in our society.
South Koreans are an example of working expatriates that flocked the Middle East during the early 70’s through the 90’s but look at them now. Filipinos worked with them side-by-side before, having the same positions. But now, they’re the bosses, they own Daewoo, Samsung, Hyundai and all those industries. Filipinos practically re-invented the jeepney, but why on earth we don’t have our own automotive industry up to now like Tata of India? The South Korean government has given their “OFWs” better opportunities and supported them back home. Expats became businessmen, the dollar revenues were used properly to create a good business climate. But not in the Philippines, sadly, no, there’s little or no support at all. OFWs are treated as milking cows.
But you know what? I’m still full of hope like millions of OFWs worldwide, because like what you said, “the quality of life here is great, if you can make enough money to support yourself, or bring it with you.” And I agree,
I totally agree Bob. 🙂
Hi jonathan – I agree with you that if a person does not have the means or temperament to be an entrepreneur, it could be very difficult to make a living here. No qualms about that.
Bob, As long as i can find my Charcoal and slow cook my meats with some of that great Davao Mango tree wood. Hey call me Whatever!! HeHeHe
Ha ha… I hear you! My article was not about what other people call me, though… it was more about what I choose to call myself, or what I see myself as.
I understood what you are saying in your article. Just having a laugh here!!! i will try to stay on point in the future i guess. Sorry!!!
Hi Anthony – No need to feel sorry…. we are all free to express our thoughts here. I was just further clarifying what I was talking about. Your comment was on point, I was not upset about it or anything. Perhaps you misinterpreted what I said? No problem at all.
Thank you Bob, you are very gracious!!!
Well they can call me whatever they want but i went back to the states for a visit ,,and all i know im glad to be back in the Phills again three weeks away was to long for me.I have a great love for the people and country.Sometimes i feel like a man without a country in limbo but home is where you feel the most comfortable,so maybe im a local to.
Hi Maynard – I don’t care what people call me. Even if I were to become a citizen here, just looking at me they would call me a foreigner, even though I technically would not be. But, my article was more about a process in my mind about how I see myself, who I am to myself. I know the feeling that you expressed about having no country or being in limbo. That is part of the process that I have been going through for years now, and what lead me to today’s article.
Hi Bob – Immigrant! That’s the word that’s been stuck on the tip of my tongue! 😆
Now, the question of the day: What do you call a person who, for all practical purposes, wants to immigrate to the Philippines, but is dragged back to the USA (kicking & screaming, I might add) for about 4 months of the year?
[Hint: His name begins with “P”] 😉
Hi Paul – I like the word immigrant. I think it fits.. in my case anyway. I think we each have to come up with what is the best description of what we are, not be worried about what other people say.
Question of the day? It’s something you’re gonna have to figure out. P? Hmm…. ???? 😆
Bob;
Ya just hadda’ put that stick in it, and give it a twist! People get so wound up over this subject, tempers flare, flames and personal attacks abound.
I’ll just admit that I have no idea what to call myself. But from now on I’m thinking it should be; “Paul, the Kano who lives in Bataan, Philippines, or Paul the contented guy!” I’ll leave everyone else to decide on their own. Wait! How about; “Paul, is your the beer cold?” Good luck on this discussion, Sir Bob! (LOL)
Ha ha…. I’ve always got to find trouble, Paul! 😉
Hi Bob,
Your story reminds me of the period of imperialism/ colonization during the 19th century. Most people who worked in a colony of their home country would return to their home country once they retired. But many Dutch people considered Indonesia as their home, even though it was a colony, and when they retired, they would continued to live in Indonesia instead of returning to their native home. Maybe the difference between an expat and immigrant.
Jakeb
Hi Jakeb – What you wrote lines up with my thinking pretty nicely, thank you for sharing it. “Expat” seems less permanent to me, sort of like you are on assignment int he place, and when your assignment runs out you will go to your “real home.” I don’t feel that way at all in the Philippines. This is my home, and this is where I will live out my days. I see nothing that would make me leave.
What you wrote and think ,makes sense, pretty simple..
Thanks, lenny.
Hey Bob,
So, I would say that you are a non-citizen immigrant, because you have no plans of returning…not even in a box.
Now your children have US citizenship I would suppose, and because they do, their children would also have US citizenship if they filed the proper paperwork.
I’m thinking of going to the Philippine Consulate in Los Angeles to get my child duel Citizenship….Whats your opinion on that?
Under US law, hudson, my kids’ kids will not have US Citizenship, unless my kids return to live in the USA. In order for that to happen, my kids would have to go back and live in the USA first. It’s complicated, but believe me, it’s correct.
Sure, I would recommend getting dual citizenship for your kids… no reason not to!
Bob, since your children are already half-Pinoys, aren’t they automatically given Philippine Citizenship too?
Hi jonathan – It is not automatic, but they can get their Philippine Citizenship fairly easily, though.
Not exactly Bob; as you know your kids are U.S. citizens from birth and I assume you’ve already taken care of the paperwork on that. But as for your (future) grandkids there is a naturalization provision in which no one has to go back to the States and actually live there. Sure that’s one way. But that is a common misperception that it’s the only way. Actually there are two ways to skin that cat. But they do need to take at least a one day trip back. If you are ever interested I’ll send you the skinny on it.
Actually, David, there is no “paperwork” required for my kids to be US Citizens. They were all born in the USA, have US birth certificates, and hold US Passports. No different than any other person born in the USA.
Good Bob, but my real point was to reply about your grandkids comment in general and the common misperception that their parents would have to live in the U.S. for some time in order for the grandkids to receive citizenship (not true). You said: “Under US law, hudson, my kids’ kids will not have US Citizenship, unless my kids return to live in the USA. In order for that to happen, my kids would have to go back and live in the USA first.”
The confusion comes in because people in general tend focus on born citizenship and over look the simplified naturalization options for grandkids.
By the way, I have one child born in the U.S. and one child born overseas, and they are both born U.S. citizens; neither is different from the other in terms of their citizenship. Both could be president as a previous poster mentioned.
Also Bob, sorry for the previous wordy post on dual citizenship. We both agree. You would be a dual citizen. No argument there. You said in a few words what took me several hundred.
However, my secondary point was that the Philippines could stop the practice tomorrow of stripping natural born Philippines citizens of their citizenship. It would save Philipinos (who naturalized to another country) the hassle of having to reapply for their Philippines citizenship. Costa Rica used to go through that same ridiculous dog and pony show until they finally wised up and said to themselves “why are we stripping our citizens of their citizenship?” Hence, the constitution and law were changed. Now Costa Rica no longer strips its citizens of their citizenship for any reasons.
It is an archaic practice that is falling by the wayside in many countries throughout the world.
Nice article Bob. In the endgame, words and titles are simply that; words and titles. How you feel and how you act is the true measure of a man/woman. I have seen many sarcastic anti-American attitudes on this site but never from you. I respect that. While I’m not some crazed right winger, nor a socialist leftist, I am an American! I will be an American wherever I live and for whatever period of time I live there. You have many choices to make in life, what you choose to term yourself as is totally up to you and doesn’t describe you. Don’t let anyone’s criticism affect what you think of yourself as….that’s irrelevant. Keep on keeping on man!
Thanks for your kind words, Eric.
Hi Bob: Your take on this ex-pat issue is right on, spelled out and analyzed correctly. After a wait of about 10 months I finally received my ” Immigrant permanent resident card ” by LBC courier.
Cheers my friend:
Thanks, Roberto! Congrats on your Immigrant Status!
bob,
I prefer “expat” than “alien” – I don’t like the term ‘alien’ sounds like I am one of those who crash landed in area 51. lol! nice article!
Well, dans.. the Philippine government calls us aliens too… so I’m with you! I haven’t been to Area 51 in a while, though! 😆
Hi Bob – A very thought provoking article albeit one that will soon grow a beard with the amount of times it has been around here in various guises.
Immigrant as opposed to Expat is much the same: Immigrant (comes to a country to settle) Expat (someone living abroad). Simplified definition, from Oxford Dictionary.
My ACR card Visa Type SEC 13A issued on 11-24-2008 says Visa Status permanent.
I suppose you can as an individual call yourself whatever you wish but you are what the BOI decides you are and no other as long as you remain on Philippine soil.
I suppose the only way to change this status in the real sense is to apply for and if granted become a citizen of the Republic of the Philippines.
Personally I don’t wish to go there even although I enjoy living here very much and love my duel citizen passport holding wife dearly. Our children albeit both born in Cagayan de Oro have not yet taken the plunge to renew their Philippine Passports and are both British citizens. Our daughter to complicate things further now lives in Australia and wishes to stay there permanently.
So I think I’m quite happy being referred to as permanent by the BOI but with a choice.
Kind regards.
Jim.
Hi Jim – I didn’t really intend to speak in terms of legalities or what the government considered me. I was just thinking of what I consider myself.
Bob;
Remember the old tune ” Sticks and stones may break my bones , but names will never hurt me”. (No I’m not going to sing it 🙂 ) Well that’s how I view this word expat or any other lable they want to place on me. For me whenb I get there in 2013 I’ll just be known as Koya Mike to my family and friends and the Kano that lives down the street to others!!!
OH yea can’t forget the occasional JOE 🙂
Merry Christmas to you BOB and all your Family.
Merry Christmas to all LIP readers!!
Lol, Koya Mike talaga? Merry Christmas too! Simbang Gabi is just around the corner. I’m gonna miss the puto bunbong, bibingka, hot cacao (chocolate)….yummy!
Ha ha.. true, Bruce. I don’t worry much about what others call me… just was thinking of what I want to call myself in this case.
Merry Christmas to you, Bruce.
Bob;
Call yourself a man who is comfortable in his own skin.
Ha ha.. I like that Bruce! 😉
I may carry a U.S passport, but I consider myself a citizen of this earth……..i2f
Ha ha… very true, imagine!
Hi Bob! I guess it is ok to call yourself an immigrant because after all, that is what the BOI calls you. Is it an issue if you ever become a Filipino citizen or not? I don’t think so. Being an immigrant who is just a permanent resident and being a Filipino citizen are too separate states of being. One does not necessarily follow another.
On the other hand, you would have to be cautious about taking Filipino citizenship because being a naturalized Filipino citizen is still different from being a natural-born citizen. The rights of a naturalized Filipino citizen is still different from those of a natural-born citizen.
Hi Claudette – Yes, you are right that the BoI calls me a Permanent Resident/Immigrant. But, I was not really talking in a legal sense… just something in my head of what I call myself. Somehow, expat did not feel right to me anymore.
Hi Bob,
I will label you the term KANOY prounounced kuh-noy!! If there’s a term tsinoy why not KANOY!
KANOY – ameriKANOng piNOY!!
Cheers!!
Toting
Ha ha.., but I don’t have any Filipino blood, Toting! 😉
Hmmm, foreigner was someone who owned the 7-11, and immigrant was someone who strived to own a 7-11.
I’ll stick with Expat for now. Just don’t call me “The other white meat”!!! That scares me.
“The Americano” works, since I may be the only one in Pita.
Hey wait a minute? I’m still in Texas! Never mind.
Ha ha… I better go back to the drawing board, Pita Mike… neither do I own a 7-11 or want one…. what the heck am I now? 😯
Bob,
When my family and I came to the US we were on a permanent resident or an immigrant status or carrying a green card or an alien before becoming a US resident for good. It took me 20 years plus to become a US citizen because life here for me goes on as usual like I am as a Filipino in the Philippines. Of course, it’s totally a different living and scenarios but people just adapts to it. I work and pay taxes just like everyone else. And being a good citizen is there to help and doesn’t hurt. Where I live there are a lot of Filipinos to interact with from the Bisayans, the Ilocanos, the Tagalogs, the Kapampangans, you name it, etc. Since I’m from Aklan, the Aklanons gathers every year either to celebrate the Sto. Nino Ati-atihan or Christmas parties or some anniversaries or weddings. Aside from the Aklanon group, there is a group that I belonged to called the Filipino-American Association of the local community where I reside. And of course, there are tons of Filipino food and music and chit-chats abound in these gatherings. Anyhow, back to the thought I had earlier before I typed in my little story. And it’s a question to you which made me curious if there is such a case. You have lived in the RP for quite a while now: Do you know personally of any Americans or British or Australians or Koreans this or that resident from another country who became a Filipino citizen through all the legal paperworks? I’m just wondering. Thank you. Merry Christmas at Manigong Bagong Taon sa Inyong Lahat! :0)
Hi Aklan Heat – Thanks for sharing your story. As a matter of fact, I have a very good friend from Austria who recently applied to become a Philippine Citizen. Other than him, I know no other foreigners who have become or strive to become a Citizen here.
Hi Bob – For those interested one of the more famous foreign citizens was Hans Menzi born in the Philippines of Swiss parents.
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/273997/general-hans-m-menzi-s-100th-birth-anniversary
Regards.
Jim.
Thanks for sharing that, Jim. Interesting.
Hi Bob- As a rider to the above Hans Menzi made available a building and piece of land to Ms Louise Lynip in Talakag to enable her to establish what is now Bethany Christian Home for Children. http://bethanytalakag.blogspot.com/
At that time The Menzi Corporation had extensive rubber plantations in Talakag along with a Paper Mill.
Regards.
Jim.
Sounds like he was a very generous man, Jim. I am really happy to hear about that.
I personally know several people who have naturalized, they are all of Chinese decent. According to wikipedia, here are five famous naturalized Filipino citizens:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Naturalized_citizens_of_the_Philippines
Interesting list, Gary, thanks for tracking that down. I was thinking Westerners when asked… and I only know one. There certainly are some very famous people on that list!
Gary, actually, not all on the list are of Chinese descent. Akiko Thomson, was naturalized by the government due to her talent in swimming. She got Japanese-American lineage.
Jonathan I realize that not all on the list are of Chinese decent. I just mentioned that all the people I know personally who have naturalized are of Chinese decent. I don’t personally know anyone on that list.
I know one person of Indian decent and once met a person who was from Lebanon, both have lived in the Philippines since they were children – however, I do not know their legal status. It would not surprise me to learn they have naturalized, but I don’t feel it’s my place to ask.
Bob,
Another foreigner that i know of who become a filipino citizen is “Miguel Faustmann” he entered showbiz industry now and speak fluent Tagalog , i saw him in TV series “TAYONG DALAWA” a primetime tv series .
Interesting, rebecca. I did not know of Mr. Faustmann. Thanks for sharing that.
Bob, I classify myself as an OAW (OverSeas American Worker) as I have to work here to earn a living I think this term may also apply to you
Tom / Roxas City
Hi Tom – Ha ha…. well, I guess you are right! Problem is if I classify myself as an OAW they will probably come up with some kind of new OAW tax that I’ll have to pay! Ha ha…
To each his own. I am living here and if I did not want to be here I would go home, but give up my U.S. Citizenship to be a Philippine Citizen no way in H***. I have a lot of respect for you, but honestly I think only a moron would do that, but I know that you are not a moron. So I suppose I really do not understand why you would even consider something like that.
Things in the world today are just to uncertain and if push comes to shove I prefer to have the backing of the U.S.A. behind me than the Philippines. I wonder if the time will ever come that you will act upon what you talk about so often. It does manage to stir up people and get responses. A lot of people do not like the idea of people turning their back on their country, but as far as I am concern if someone wants to denounce their U.S. citizenship the country is probably better off if they do. I would imagine your ancestor left for the U.S. for the same reason mine did – things were not all that good where they came from and they were looking for a better life.
Few that come to the Philippines to live are having to work for a living and even fewer that are working have been as lucky as you and perhaps are not as smart as you. I would hate to know I had to depend on a business or job in the Philippines to live on.
I have said it before it is comforting to know if the Catholic Church leads the people to the streets to overthrow the government and accompish it and martial law is declared I can always go home and the American Embassy will help me get out.
Now saying all that I have no intention at the moment to leave and at the moment I prefer living here than back in the States. But, I LOVE THE ASSURANCE BEING A U.S. CITIZEN GIVES ME.
Hi Tom – Nice to hear from you. Actually, the article was not meant to be anything about citizenship, but the comments quickly turned to that aspect. When I wrote the article, it was just more or less me thinking about “what I am” not anything at all about citizenship.
Yes, I have thought about becoming a citizen here…. but, so far I am not, which shows that as of now, your thinking and mine are the same! 😉
Bob, on the subject of immigration, you may remember from earlier posts that my ancestors also came from Ireland in the mid 1800s. The difference between us and them is that they could not realistically turn back. We have the option of having a home where ever we want and/or returning to our roots if things don’t work out. While it is true we are all immigrants, its just not the same as it was for our ancestors.
Hi David – I don’t know about your ancestors, but you also don’t know about mine. My grandparents came over from Ireland in the 20th Century, and they certainly had the means and ability to go back to Ireland if they chose to do so. They were not rich, but they had means. In my article, it was my grandparents that I was thinking about. They may not have been typical of the Irish immigrant.. but, I could only base my thinking upon them, since they were my ancestors.
What is an immigrant….?
I stand corrected Bob. Sorry for incorrectly categorizing your ancestor immigrants into the great Irish peasant potato famine migration escaping the starvation and death of Ireland of the 1840s and 50s. That group made up nearly half of all U.S. immigration! And nearly all were not by choice.
Yes, you and your ancestors are both in the same boat so to speak; immigrants by choice and means rather than by necessity.
Interesting that we’re all considered immigrants regardless of the circumstances.
Here’s another group of “immigrants” in our history to consider.
http://notes.bread.org/2010/06/african-immigration.html
“Scholars estimate that at least 10 to 12 million Africans were brought to the Americas and an estimated 645,000 were brought to what is now the United States before the slave trade was outlawed by Congress. Although most African Americans are not immigrants they are – like almost all Americans – descended from immigrants (old and new) and black immigration remains relevant to the contemporary immigration debate.”
Hi Bob,
You finally settled in the Philippines? I once asked you about this e- word. “Expat” sounds so temporary. Davao is your home (now), and if Davao became the Republic of Davao, it would still be your home I suppose. Funny over here, there are the occasional questions I get, when are you going back home? My answer, every night I go home, I’m only 25 minutes by subway. The question makes me feel so expat or temporary after my family has been living here over 40 years.
There were many Americans and foreigners who stayed on after Philippine independence. I’m not sure if some opted for citizenship or just plain stayed. Other than Hans Menzis of Manila Bulletin (and an Air Force general), there was the Englishman R. McCullough Dick, Philippine Free Press, the creator of Juan Tamad. (Not sure if he became a citizen, but he wasn’t deported for the Filipino caricature). There was Chick Parsons, MacArthur’s master spy in WW II. He and his family stayed on, his sons, very much Filipino now. And there was that American Christian Brother (De La Salle), who became the Sec of Education during Cory’s time. You’re in good company.
Alex
Hi Alex – In the past, I never thought of the term “expat” as being a time-sensitive thing. I thought an expat is an expat. In recent times, though, I personally have been questioning that thinking. The definition of the word is not clear, and varies depending on the source.
I thought the article was meant to explain how you feel about refering to yourself as “expat” when you have no intention of leaving. I feel the same as you do. I find myself constantly saying, “I am expat, but I have lived here many years and probably will die here.” If I had to choose because of citizenship then I would have to go home. Today’s paper states the Speaker of the Senate Enrile said within the next decade the Philippines would not be forced by China to decide to pledge loyalty to China over the U.S. they would do so because that would be in the best interest of the Philippines. He feels it is better to be alligned with a powerful country within their own neighborhood. President Aquino decided not to send representatives to the Nobel Peace Price because he did not want to offend China ingnoring China’s human right abuses. Philippines is a weak nation and could not wage a war or protect itself from any nation it would need China or U.S. to come to their defense and it seems it is leaning towards China. I hope things remain civil and peaeful, but there is just so much uncertainity everywhere in the world that I would simply not risk losing my U.S. citizenship. There are many things in the past and now that I do not approve of when it comes to U.S. policy, but at the present times it still remains the strongest democratic country. Take care!
Hi Tom – You are exactly right… the article was about my feeling about referring to myself as an expat. I am going through somewhat of a metamorphosis on this right now and was just kind of thinking out loud.
Bob,
I had the feeling which you confirmed in your article that you are no longer an Expat in the Philippines, but an immigrant who has settled down, in a new place (other than your birth place) that you now consider home.
You are right in that you are now longer “temporarily residing” which an Expat does, but have settled down. Congratulations on being “At Home” now.
I am a chinese filipino american (naturalized) who currently lives in the USA. And while I would defend with my life, my adopted country (USA), my heart has always been in the Philippines. To where I plan to retire …. assuming Social Security will still have money to pay us, retirees, by then ….. hahaha.
This may sound dumb but how do you differentiate expat from immigrant? In the US hardly aliens are called expat. In the Philippines, aliens living there are usually called expat, not immigrant. o_0
In my mind, an expat is more temporary than an immigrant.
I was wondering what’s the exact definition of an expat and searched for it in google. I happen to see your article. I just want to say that I’m impressed that you’ve been living in the Philippines for a very long time and you are considering it home. 🙂
Thanks may.
I’m a dual citizen. I was born Filipino. When I became an American citizen in 1992, I lost my Filipino citizenship — NOT BECAUSE THE AMERICAN GOVERNMENT REQUIRED THAT I RENOUNCE MY FILIPINO CITIZENSHIP, BUT BECAUSE THE NEW 1987 PHILIPPINE CONSTITUTION AUTOMATICALLY TOOK AWAY THE FILIPINO CITIZENSHIP OF FILIPINOS WHO ACQUIRED FOREIGN CITIZENSHIPS.
I actually did not know I was going to lose my Filipino citizenship when I was granted my American citizenship. I only learned later about my loss when my parents died in 2000. My brothers in the Philippines stood to inherit the bulk of my parent’s estate because I and my sisters could not inherit more than 1,000 sqm of property as former Filipino citizens. When RA 9225 (Citizen Retention and Re-Acquisition Act of 2003) was passed, Filipinos like me who lost their citizenship through no choice on their part were allowed to become ‘dual citizens’. I applied for my Filipino citizenship almost as soon as I stepped off the plane last November 11, 2011. I was able to re-acquire my citizenship (with the help of my brothers) in December 20, 2011.
So, do I recommend ‘dual citizenship’ to anyone? NO.
For myself, I have no choice. If I give up my American citizenship, I will lose the Social Security benefits I accrued from the system I paid into all my working life. If I give up my Filipino citizenship, I will put at risk the property I inherited from my parents.
Three years ago, I did not care if my brothers stood to inherit everything. But in 2008, I lost two-thirds of the value of my retirement funds, lost my job, lived on unemployment benefits for awhile; then my savings ever since. I know I won’t find work in the Philippines. I will need my inheritance to live on until I qualify for early retirement benefits from Social Security five years from now. And I know I’m lucky to have brothers who are willing help me here. My sisters abroad are afraid of the future. For me, the future is now.
Allegiance to two governments is asking for trouble. But the US is in a better position to protect its citizens from China (for example) than the Philippines. In the meantime, I can’t afford healthcare in the US. But I can afford it here in the Philippines.
So, much as I don’t like the idea of ‘dual citizenship’. I have no choice, but to remain one.
However, don’t confuse love for country and its people with love for government. I’m not willing to give up my life for either the Philippines or the US. But I am willing to die in a NY minute in the defense of my Filipino or American friends and family.
The only issue one should consider when deciding on citizenship is how much taxes one will have to pay and if the benefits of citizenship is worth the tax. But no amount of taxes saved is worth your life and no government is worth paying taxes to — much less dying for.
Hi Mimi – I disagree with you. You had a choice of whether or not to become a US Citizen. You had a choice of whether to re-acquire your Philippine Citizenship. You still have a choice, you can renounce either of your citizenships. Yes, it will cost you if you do so, in either case, but you still have a choice.
And,BTW, You did lose your Philippine citizenship by the act of becoming a US Citizen, as that is part of the US oath taking.
You are correct.
I checked out my papers. I did renounce my Filipino citizenship back in 1992 when I took the American oath of allegiance (revised in 1957).
My inheritance issues stemmed from the fact that the 1987 Philippine Constitution banned all foreign ownership of Philippine real estate. Prior to 1987, foreigners were allowed to own land. When I married in 1980, I still could inherit as a Resident Alien. But when I divorced in 1990 and became an American citizen in 1992, I could no longer own real estate in the Philippines and therefore, could not also inherit. I did not tell my parents what I was doing because my parents were very fond of my American ex-husband. That is why my parents (who were both lawyers) could not advise me on the ramifications of renouncing my Filipino citizenship at the time. In effect, I disinherited myself. Hmmmm, how embarrassing!
Apparently, my parents didn’t try to straighten me out when they were re-writing their wills. Prior to RA 9225 (Citizen Retention and Re-Acquisition Act of 2003), children of Filipino nationals who lost their Filipino citizenships were limited to 1,000 sqm of land they could inherit. The property I stood to inherit was larger than that. My other siblings inherited smaller, but more valuable pieces of property. We siblings agreed we would not challenge the division of properties. My mother died in 1999 and my father died in 2000. In 2003, RA 9225 passed and all these inheritance issues became moot when I re-acquired my Filipino citizenship.
I suppose if I sold all my properties in the Philippines or if the Philippine Congress applies the “cha-cha” amendments to the 1987 constitution, I will be free to renounce my Filipino citizenship. Although, I would still choose to live here in the Philippines because of the cost of living and the proximity to family. BUT I would also like to hold on to my US passport so I can visit my family abroad, even if I should lose my Social Security benefits (and this can happen so easily at the rate things are going in the US).
NO. I don’t believe I have a choice. Even without the Tax considerations, my heart will break either way.
I never said the choice was easy, but you do have a choice, no matter what you believe.
Man you guys are to deep for me , Home is where you hang your hat
Hi Ben – I’m sorry if you feel the article went over your head. It really is not about “where home is”.
Hi Bob,
I understand what you are saying in this article, but the references from some of those dictionaries and websites are to the Verb, not the Noun. ‘To expatriate’ is the act of moving somebody from their homeland, while ‘an expatriate’ is a person in a land other than their homeland (regardless of how that came about). Hope this doesn’t come across as nit-picking, but the difference in meaning is enormous, just as the word ‘fish’ has vastly different meanings. Compare ‘to fish’ with ‘a fish’.
You certainly do have the choice, though, to call yourself an immigrant rather than an expat.
You are right – verb vs noun. I do consider it a bit nit picky, though. I am not sure you really got the meaning of what I was saying… my fault for poor writing. I apologize for that.
Hi Bob,
Apologies if I seemed critical of the article. I certainly didn’t mean it to criticize the article in general, but just to point out that all of the definitions regarding a person being ejected (or rejected) by their original homeland are for verbs, while the noun is only about a person living outside their original homeland.
Overall I agree wholeheartedly with the article. I just wanted to point out that what may seem like a negative connotation with the term ‘expat’ comes from confusing the noun and the verb.
Sorry if I came across as negative, that certainly wasn’t my intent. I enjoy reading your blog – easily the most informative I’ve come across on the subject of the Philippines and expat (or immigrant) living!
Cheers,
Russell
No worries, Russell.
Bob thanks for resurrecting this article. It certainly resinates with us. Fiona and I proudly say we are immigrants, this however sometimes seems to cause some consternation with our Pinoy acquaintances as A. Most are unaware that the process is possible for a western foreigner (Quota Visa) and B. It sometimes seems to bring jealousy to the fore….Which seems strange as most of our countries have some form of reciprocal rights. We are also looking into the citizenship option but I am wary of the clause requiring renouncing of original citizenship.
I tetesti g. I wonder shy those kind of feelings came up? That has not been my experience.
All immigrants are ex-pats but not all ex-pats are immigrants.
Immigrants permanently reside in a foreign country.
Ex-pats temporarily or permanently reside in a foreign country.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on that. After so many years, I definitely feel like an immigrant.
I got it you don’t want to be labeled as a expat
You’ve been there a long time
I guess your going thru some head trip
Head trip? Not at all. You were the one who said the article was too deep for you.
HA Ha what we arguing here
Ok your not good luck Columbus
No argument, I was just sad that you did not enjoy the article, that’s all.
Magandang Umaga, Immigrant!
I completely agree with you Bob, but I’ve never been called “expat” here. I am, however, tired of being called “Americano”. I tell people that I’m NOT “Americano” — I’m a “Foreigner” or a “Foreignoid” (heheheeee!).
I’ve been living in the Philippines for quite a while now, & would love to become a citizen. Unfortunately one must have “Philippine blood” to become a citizen, unless the “Citizen” title is honorary, which is rare.
Good Luck to you, sir. Enjoy your Life here. I Know that I Do!
Hello Wild Bill! Nice to meet you, thank you for your message. You can actually become a Philippine citizen through naturalization, but it takes many years to do it, and you will have to give up your US citizenship in the process.
Magandang Umaga again, Bob.
I forgot about the Naturalization since the cost is W~A~Y out of reach for me. Permanent Residency is right for me, and is affordable. Unlike most other immigrants (those who post, anyway), I am Not “comfortably well-off”.
Hey Wild Bill.. I am with you right now in the poor house! I have hit some major medical bills this year, and it really put me down! I will build it back, though!
I hadn’t felt the word ‘expat’ was a fitting label for me for some time but until now I hadn’t decided exactly why. Now you’ve explored the etymology of the words and shared your thoughts on the matter I understand what didn’t feel right about it.
I will now say “I am an immigrant” and I thank my new country for accepting me as an equal. Well I aspire to be equal, if I were asked to renounce my citizenship of England in exchange for the same here, I would in a heartbeat, I guess for me that’s the difference between expat and immigrant.
Thank you, Andy. I think we have the same feelings about this.
Hi Bob,
Do you or anyone remember the the acronym “DP” (for “Displaced Person”), which is what anyone was called for a couple of decades after WW2 forced them to become “Expats” from their birth-country?
These days it’s a politically-nice term to call people living abroad (for whatever reason) “Expats”, and surely we are just as we are also “DP”s, same thing with perhaps different cause.
In my case, I never NEVER expected to emigrate at the turn of the century, but circumstances coalesced such that I went to the Philiippines then returned, returned, then (legally) extended extended … extended my visa, and eventually applied, paid for and received my Philippines legal “immigrant” status. That’s what it says on my ACR card and I’ve respected that since they issued my first ACR card when I became a legal immigrant to the Philippines circa 2005.
Sadly the laws are such that the only way to become a Philippines citizen would be to renounce my birth-citizenship to thus totally impoverish myself and my family, which I can’t sensibly do. Instead I’ll just continue to do what’s right, work through my now-old-age to support my wife and kids and live out what’s left of my life as a legal *immigrant*.
I don’t recall I ever heard the saying “DP”. I am probably too young. I was born in 1962.
Hello Bob: First of all let me thank you again for S&R as I sit here crunching on my Valsic pickle. I have been an expat most of my life. Born Canadian but never considered it my Country. I was raised in Mexico City for four years when it was a beautiful safe city, by the way I am 68 years old. When I returned to Canada I got my trade as Steamfitter after high school and did well with all the usual stuff, wife, kids, harley, trucks and campers etc. After separating from my wife I was on a job and a fella who just returned from Thailand told me that would be the place for me so when the ob was over I went there and spent three months and fell in love with the place, this was 32 years ago when it was still clean and not so many tourists. Over the years I did the usual, wife, two kids who live in Krabi, and a house. Because I returned to Canada to make my money for six months at a time my wife could not handle it so we divorced. I worked for four years in China and lived two of those years in Shanhai and the rest in Guilin but had a Chinese lady at that time. I returned to Canada after the job with the plans of taking her there but that ended. I met my Filippina wife online and came to meet her and her family, they all me at the Davao Airport. Well things well and I took her to Thailand to my place in Pattaya. Once again I had to return to work to fill the bank and she returned to the PI. That was 18 years ago. In my times away from my Filipina wife I built three houses in Bislig City, one for us, Mom and Dad, and two others for her brother and sister and their families. My wife had enough of the worsening conditions in our place in Pattaya so decided it was time to move. I have been in Bisiig City for exactly one year this April 1st. and although it was difficult changing from all the food in Thailand to very poor selection here but I have adjusted and have applied for my ACR-1 Card and am only waiting for clearance for my NBI Clearance. Becoming a citizen is really in the books for me as I expect to spend my final years here with my family traveling around and seeing this beautiful area before it is ruined by tourists. I forgot that I also did a one year stint working on a power plant in Cuba so you can see I never spent long periods in one place. Maybe that is what old age is supposed to do to you, need to slow down and smell the flowers.
Hi Paul, it sounds like you have really made the rounds. Congratulations on all of your travel and living experience in different countries. I would imagine that has made for a very exciting life.
Hi Bob, not sure if Immigrant is suited to us, as my understanding Immigrant is a person who is Invited by a Country through Government, for settlements purposes, or for work or lack of Population in that Country, so they can be part of that Country, I believe here we can be expat’s or we can be citizens or this Country, but never an Immigrant as we have never been Invited by Philippines, maybe we are just overstayers or we don’t want to leave, in someone’s Country, and waiting for them to say now you can go home, as much as I like it here, i am not part of this Country, I have a house here but this can never be my home, reasons are they don’t want you and they really do not welcome you to be part of their Country, maybe for some is different here then others, but again all we are to then is Alien, what a name we get here, I can never understand this. this is what I mean they do not want us here..
The dictionary definition of immigrant is:
a person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country.
Nothing to do with being invited. I moved here by choice and am very welcome here. I am an immigrant.
Bob, Indeed the ACR 13a card states: visa status immigrant, but our situation is still fragile. If our spouse dies or reports/claims abuse the card can be revoked, causing the visitor to scramble to secure another type of visa.
Without citizenship an immigrant is a second class resident for we can’t avail to the same rights and privileges as a natural born citizen.
We must not forget that the Philippines is a fragile country where it is possible that a new regime could take power that could expel certain foreigners or rewrite visa laws.
You imply that I have said something different from what you are saying, but I have not.