This past couple of weeks has found a lot of email in my inbox, messages on Facebook and whatever kinds of communications are possible… I have been getting them. The vast majority have been on one topic… President Duterte and where Americans and other Western expats stand with him.
To be honest, Duterte has always been one to speak out first and then consider what he is saying later. In other words, you cannot always take his first statement on a topic to be the way things will end up, sometimes (most of the time?) he later adjusts his feelings or actions based on his re-thinking the issue. Is that good or bad? Well, I don’t know, I suppose it cuts both ways. He says what he thinks, sometimes he has to reconsider. That’s just the way he works.
Visas for Americans
This past week, President Duterte suggested that he will be moving toward requiring Visas for Americans to visit the Philippines. In the Philippines, usually “Americans” means all foreigners, so this may apply to any foreign visitors.
Currently, the vast majority of foreign visitors to the Philippines come here with no visa at all, under the Visa Waiver program. Not all countries are eligivle for the Visa Waiver Program, it is mostly limited to Western Countries. Places like India, African nations, etc, require a visa to visit the Philippines. The majority of readers of this website, though, are American, European, Australian, etc, and all of the citizens of these countries can come here to visit under the visa waiver program. When you come and avail of the Visa Waiver, you do not need to obtain a visa before traveling, after your flight lands in the Philippines you simply show your passport issued by a Visa Waiver eligible country, it is stamped with a 30 day Visa Waiver, and you are good to go! This Visa Waiver can be extended at the end of 30 days and you can actually stay in the Philippines for a total of 36 months without any visa at all.
This is a very liberal policy, there are not that many countries that will allow a person to live there for 3 years without any visa at all.
Duterte’s Past Experiences
Back in his college days, apparently Mr. Duterte wanted to go visit his girlfriend in the USA, and he was denied a visa. It is apparently because of this and possibly other visa experiences that Duterte wants Americans (and other foreigners?) to be required to apply for a visa before visiting the Philippines.
It is pretty common that Filipinos get denied when they apply for a visa to go to the USA and to other countries too. Many Filipinos complain that it is humiliating the way they are treated during visa interviews and such. I would say that 99% of Filipinos are unlikely to ever be able to get a visa to visit the United States. On the other hand, Americans are able to just jump on a plane and get carte blanche when it comes to entering the Philippines and can even stay here for up to 3 years, no (or very few) questions asked.
Many Filipinos (most?) consider this policy difference to be very unfair. I can see both sides of the issue. The apparent reason why most Filipinos are unable to visit the USA is because in the past so many Filipinos who have visited the USA have not left the country when their visa expires, they just stay illegally. Because of this, the USA limits how many Filipinos are allowed to go visit the USA. It makes sense. However, I have to say, I get emails every day from Americans (and other nationalities) who are doing the same thing here in the Philippines. I hear from people regularly who have been here for 20 years on a tourist visa that they never extended. So, it is a two way street… Filipinos overstay in the USA, and Americans overstay here.
Reciprocity of Visas
Visas are something that are usually handled on a reciprocal basis. If Country A requires a visa from Citizens of Country B, then Country B usually treats Country A in the same way. Whatever one country does, the other country follows suit. So, for the USA to be super tough on Filipinos wanting to visit the USA, and the Philippines to freely allow Americans to come to the Philippines, even for the long term, is out of the ordinary.
Because the USA requires Filipinos to go to the Embassy and apply for a visa before visiting, the norm would be for the Philippines to do the same for Americans.
Of course, America is a much bigger economic power than the Philippines, and because of this a lot more Filipinos want to go to the USA and end up wnating to stay there to take advantage of work opportunities. However, as I pointed out in the previous section of this article, there are lots of Americans who overstay in the Philippines too, just not as many as the number of overstaying Filipinos.
What Duterte is aiming for
It seems that what Duterte wants that Americans can still visit the Philippines, but that instead of just buying an airplane ticket and flying over, Americans will need to apply for a visa, and presumably will have to go to the Philippine Embassy or Consulate for a visa interview and such, before visiting the Philippines.
Yes, that will be a hassle for those who want to visit the Philippines, but no more hassle than Filipinos who want to visit the USA, in fact, still less hassle. I would assume that the vast majority of Americans wishing to come to the Philippines would be approved for visas, while the vast majority of Filipinos are denied any possibility of visiting the USA.
As an example of the way things are now for Filipinos, with my heart condition and coming surgery that I am facing, a lot of people have been urging me to go to the USA for treatment. I am the type that really wants and needs to be around my family Especially when I am going through somethign stressful like heart surgery. For myself, my wife and our 3 sons, we can all easily go to the States, we are all US citizens (Feyma and our 3 sons are Dual Citizens of the USA and the Philippines). However, we have two “daughters” who are both really nieces, but have been living with us for many years. We consider them to be daughters, and they are as close to me as our sons are. These girls would not ba allowed to enter the USA, because they are not citizens. It is very unlikely that they would be allowed visas to go to the USA. I could not leave them behind permanently, and even if I were there for a few months to get medical treatment, I would not like that. I feel I would recover better if they were around to care for and comfort me. But, it is more or less impossible. Is this fair?
So, based on the US policy, I think that what President Duterte has in mind is that “turnaround is fair play”.
Is US Immigration Policy fair?
Another way to look at this is that under current US Immigration policy, basically people can illegally cross the US border and be illegally in the USA, and they face few if any consequences for doing so. Thousands of people cross the soutnern US border each and every day. The US government does little about it. So, is it then fair to be so stringent on Filipinos who want to do the same thing? Lots of Filipinos want to go to the USA and even stay illegally, which people from other countries are doing.
I feel that enforcement of the borders is an important job of the government, but when they are applying the law in a way that is not equal for different coutnries, that seems to be unfair. For me, I think they should apply immgiration policy equally to all foreign countries that are friends.
Expats have to be flexible
We are guests here. We have no right to vote or to dictate foreign policy. We have to basically roll with the punches. I have heard from a lot of foreigners living here that they are considering leaving the Philippines because of changes in the countriy’s foreign policy under Duterte (he has not made any changes yet, but has indicated possible changes that he would like to institute). I have also heard from a lot of people who plan to move to the Philippines in the future, and tell me that “Duterte has ruined their retirement plans.” Well, if a few statements from a new President can ruin your plans, you probably are not well suited to live in a foreign country anyway.
To have a successful and happy life in a foreign country, you have to be able to not worry much about the politics and just enjoy your life. If every little scuffle between your home coutnry and your adopted country will send you scrambling for the next plane back home, well.. you are probably best to just stay home to begin with.
I have lived in the Philippines for nearly 17 years. There have been 4 different presidents of the Philippines over that time:
- Joseph Estrada
- Gloria Macapagal Arroyo
- Benigno Aquino
- Rodrigo Duterte
Also, suring that time there have been 3 Presidents of the United States
- William Clinton
- George Bush
- Barack Obama
Of the 4 Philippine Presidents, I have felt that 2 of them were either pretty good or had the potential to be pretty good. I have felt that 2 of them were not really very good choices. But, I have never really voiced an opinion or railed against those that I did not like. I never thought I would leave the Philippines because I did not like a President’s policies here. I just went on living my life here and enjoying it. I feel that I have been pretty successful with my life here living it in that way.
On the other hand, when it comes to US Presidents, of the 3 Presidents since I have been gone, I felt that one of them was marginally OK, one was pretty good and one was a miserable failure. So, both the Philippines and the USA have had Presidents that I like and that I dislike. No country is perfect, and no Presidnet of any country is perfect. That is why we have to learn to roll with the punches and just enjoy life. There are lots of things in life that you cannot change, no matter what country you live in.
China
In addition to the things that I have talked about in this article (immigration mostly), a lot of expats and potential expats are very worried about President Duterte’s shift or pivot in diplomatic relations with China. We are not talking about that today. It is an important topic that deserves an article of its own, and I will be addressing that on Friday. So, please hold your comments about China until Friday’s article is published.
westerners staying (or visiting) the Philippines, whether overstayed or not, represent a huge net inflow of money into the country,, that is the difference, from an economic perspective kind of dumb to make it more difficult for them to be there
I would agree that US foreigner who overstay are usually there on a pension they are not taking a Filipino job or living on welfare. I personally have no real opinion either way but there are 2 things that are critical here to consider. One is we already have close to 4 million Filipinos working and living in the US sending most of their money back to their home country and they have the right to apply to bring their families to the US based on their legal standing. That is quite a bit of Liberty. The second is a visa to the US that ends in them living here(which lets face it is what they want) also can end in dual citizenship, land ownership, business ownership non of which US citizens can avail of in the Philippines.
So I say if it’s fairness we are striving for then make it fair. The new president doesn’t want fair he wants an advantage which is typical of how they run things.
agree,, no reciprocity on land ownership is bogus
There is merit to what you say, Mark, no doubt. But, I also know a lot of foreigners here who are destitute, have nothing at all to live on. So, it does flow both ways.
Bob, I would say reading between the lines President DU30’s argument is basically with America and not other countries as you may have suggested! I totally agree with DU30’s rule with an Iron-fist policy. It seems if other countries try and meddle with his policies they will simply pay the penalty, this guy is not to be messed with. Visa requirements can be amended at any time as has been suggested already.
I did not suggest that his policy would cover other countries. I specifically said that we will have to wait and see what countries would be covered. Please don’t put words in my mouth… even if you are “reading between the lines”. I say what I want to say and don’t need you to tell others that I mean things that I did not write.
Bob I am certain in what you may be suggesting ‘usually Americans’ does not include foreigners of other nationalities in the eyes of many Filipinos including president DU30 as you have suggested. Americans are Americans as Australians are Australians.This scenario is mainly about the bully-boy tactics the American government serves to many countries that don’t fall into line with their policies, including the Philippines..Of course the USA has given aid to the Philippines over the years but I bet you it has had conditions..Seems it maybe time for a change.
Of course all Aid has conditions! I never suggested otherwise.
politics is always interesting and changeable. The new Philippine Prez is cold blooded murderer, he actually brags on it- so take it from there……. I love the Philippino people and beautiful country. matt
I had intended to move to the Philippines. I was in the process of selling everything. I had given much away. Then, I saw the protest of Filipinos at the American Embassy.
Duterte has a reputation for rewarding those who kill the people he does not like. He has many followers that believe in him. I had to think “what if” he continues to spew his hate for America, would Filipinos start hate crimes against Americans living in the Philippines? Many foreigners have already been killed in the Philippines for their possessions. Hate crimes against Americans could start in a heartbeat fueled by hate and greed and Americans would have no protection. Duterte has already likened himself to Hitler. Remember Hitler and the Jewish people?
Hi Roger, for a Filipino to appyl and bring family members to the USA takes decades, so I would not consider that a huge benefit.
Actually, it the time depends on what relative you’re talking about, Bob. If it’s your child or parent, 6-8 months.
True, sorry. If it is a sibling it takes decades.
but does the PI government support them as is the case in USA?, here if no money you can walk into any hospital and they are legally requited to treat you, whether legal or not. I have no idea about the magnitude of destitute westerners in Philippines, guess most must be under 65, as once on social security, can live pretty well (with the exception of major medical expenses)
“you can walk into any hospital and they are legally requited [required?] to treat you” is not true. My helper’s brother was taken to an ER after injuring himself. He laid on a cot for hours, with no one tending him at all, not even creature comforts were tended to. When I arrived (with wallet in hand) my helper and I saw that he was cold and had to find a blanket for him. His feet were like ice. Only when I gave money did treatment commence.
Mark LaBelle I can assure you that no money or items that the US gives to the Philippines is given for free… it all has strings attached that the Philippines has to do to receive the aid.
I agree, and generally other than historic ties, the object of aid is containment of Chinese domination of the region.
My thoughts exactly.
Roger Craft I guess their pensions are a bit more than average Social Security. How do expats fair over there on just SS?
average SS is $1,200 a month, say 48,000 peso a month, which is plenty in many places in PI. This is roughly 6 times the average salary,,,
You could go on a cruse for $160 a day and get everything you need even breakfast in bed all meals supplied everyday and entertainment every night and the doctor is on call 24/7 it’s a better way of life than been in a home for the rest of your life, you also have ppl to talk to and you can book back to back cruises too!
Well it’s a plan, what more could you want at retirement age???
Is that gross or with other insurance fees taken out?
Bob Martin would you expect any country to just give them money without strings? We all know most end up in politicians pockets loom
No. Never said I would expect that.
Gregory T. Bunn if you are asking about how they fair in Hawaii or for that matter any state in US most have pensions on top of SS benefits.
No, just philippines.
Gregory T. Bunn is living overseas no reason to take deduction from SS for Medicare Part B premium for medical insurance, since you cant use it anyway, unless as a fall back if you return to states
Gregory T. Bunn oh sorry misunderstood. Seems some do good and other just get by. If you live in Manila the cost is almost as much as living in the US but most live in rural or smaller towns because its cheaper. If they have 1500 they are usually safe . Some say they live on 800 but i dont see how. You also have to factor in the cost of emergency items. Like medical problems. I would disagree with Mark on the part B medicare. Keep it if possible as you get older you may need it.
I lived on USD795 a month for 6 years. It was not easy in the least. And that was 5 people!! So glad that SS kicked in and my kids get a hefty chunk every month. As you can see, I was $5 short of applying for permanent residency. Life is sweet now.
Roger Craft Roger the part B is $120 a month, and I would for sure take it. am just saying can’t use it unless back in the states, get outside the big cities and can be fine on $1,200…. obviously have to go a bit native, no aircon or car etc
Mark LaBelle Yea i know you can only use it in States or territories of US. If a person is in good health and not that old i would say drop it . But i have seen so many older expats in the last year with major medical problems and no way to pay . The native part is tough hahah. I lived in Manila for 3 years but it wasnt cheap.
as I said,, get a bit in the sticks, not manila, Davao or Cebu,,, more like northern Mindanao, or Leyte, or Mindoro,,, is LOT cheaper,,,the problem is as Bob has pointed out is major medical. In the states as you get older, Medicare is literally life saver
I get my healthcare from the Veterans Administration and I know the VA has a clinic and pharmacy in the US Embassy compound in Manila. I wonder though if Filipino hospitals and doctors accept payment from the US VA for services outside of those rendered at the embassy.
No, they do not.
Hi Bob,
Yes and No,
I talked to Vicky Randall who is the clinic Manager in her office at VA Manila,I am rated 100% for 4 Combat related conditions and she told me if I had to be treated for any one of my conditions and I pay the bill and submit the bill to VA they would reimburse me for it,I live on Negros Oriental so I am 800 miles by Air from the Manila clinic and I only go once per year.
The same situation may not apply to all so I would contact her or the Patient Advocate at Manila VA Clinic about your personal situations also the VA Choice card is worthless here,but they sent me one from the US anyway,LOL
Hope this helps other Veterans
Bob
USMC Ret.
Semper Fi
I am a category 5 veteran, meaning I have no problems whatsoever. I am not allowed to use the VA facility in Manila and there is not one on Guam. Hawaii or go home. I was kinda counting on that too. While in the Air Force, I did get a hangnail once though!
I only lived there because my spouse was working there . I ended up just taking them back to the US. I missed Hawaii to bad:)
15 trillion pesos per annum is generated through tourism.
That, my friend, is impossible. Even if the Philippines met it’s goal of 10M tourists this year, which it won’t, that would mean that every tourist would have to spend P1.5 Million, which is way too much!
Bob, presumably this figure would be based on what tourists actually spend, which would including creating employment for Filipino workers, businesses etc.. the list goes on. I’m sure expats residing in the Philippines would contribute substantially to this figure..
The entire GDP of the country is less than P15T so it cannot be an accurate figure.
I personally pump about $30,000 annually into the local economy.
I get $1220 a month which now converts to 58,000 php a month and I live high on the hog here in laguna. Rent only be $75 a month for a nice 2 bedroom house and anothe $150 a month for utilities, cable and internet. The rest is for food and enjoying ?
Bob, in your article you state: “This Visa Waiver can be extended at the end of 30 days and you can actually stay in the Philippines for a total of 36 months without any visa at all”. I have been living here now for one year and faithfully extending what I have always been told and read to be a “Tourist Visa”, and in fact the very sticker placed into my passport has a barcode number which begins TV-000000XXX. Obviously the TV part indicates Tourist Visa. The ACR card which I have been issued indicate my status here is “tourist” not “waived”, and that card also has a TV-00000XXXX registration number on it. To remain compliant with the Philippine immigration laws my fees and travel costs to get to and return home exceed $1.50usd per day. I am not going to take a position that you are in error in saying that I do not pay my hard earned pension money for the privilege of supporting a family here, because technically you may be entirely correct about it not being a “visa”. But please allow me to ask you for your source of information which supports your position that the stickers in my passport are only waivers.
Just do a little research, or ask an attorney, and you will find out that what you have is a tourist visa waiver, which is what is given if you show your passport at the airport. If you have an actual Visa, that would have had to been obtained from the Philippine Embassy or consulate. They are both exactly the same but just have different names that’s all. Just do some research and you will find out that I’m correct. Good luck to you.
Bob Martin It didn’t take decades for my ex-wifes family I think it was like 4 years.
Congrats on that Daryl Watson. I am happy for you.
I would say what is fair for one is fair for the other. Not a problem in my mind. Lets take that a step further down the road. Staying on the what is fair for one is fair for the other I would suggest that Americans be allowed to buy property other than a condo. America allows the Filipino to buy here so lets make fair all the way around. Thoughts??
It is really a very separate issue, but yeah, I think fair is fair and foreigners should be able to purchase land in the Philippines.
I agree that expats and potential tourists should chill out a bit and as you say if someone is considering getting out over some political pronouncements, then maybe they are not suited for life outside their home country. OTOH, I only partially agree with your sentiments on Visas. Please remember, that the US policies are not directed toward the Philippines. The policies exist for all non-1st world countries and for some very good reasons. As to DU30 and other Filipinos being disrespected by immigration or USCIS, their job is to ask the tough questions and not just of immigrants. As an American I have returned many times to the US and sometimes got asked tough questions with the obvious goal of making sure I was who my passport said I was.One time I actually was scared that they wouldn’t let me in – no joke! I don’t mind – they should be tough. All this being said, I will become an expat in less than a year and as I have told everyone who has asked, unless DU30 bans sun, beaches and San Miguel, it doesn’t affect me.
Hi Dave, – Yep, it is the job of the USCIS to ask those tough questions. I guess what Duterte is saying is that the Philippines should institute a similar policy and ask a few questions too.
Bob Martin with That i would agree. Hopefully I can pass lol
I don’t think it will be difficult.
But he must realise also the Philippines will lose alot in tourism unless they will open a counsulet office in all 50states. Also a policy change will affect condo sales also.
Bob Martin I am here on a visitors visa, been here for 6 years have always followed the visa requiremnets, used to be every gut finally now I can extend for 6 months at a cost of $150. I go to the US every couple of years to visit my children. The last time I came back I was asked several questions before I was given the 30 day visa.
You mean the 30-day Visa waiver, right? If you enter the Philippines and show your passport you don’t get a Visa, you get a Visa waiver.
OK call it whatever you like, lets me stay here for 30 days.
They are two different things. I am just calling it what it is.
Basically, that is the whole issue. The president wants to stop the Visa waiver program and make people get an actual Visa, which is obtained from the embassy or consulate. That’s why I distinguish between the two.
But as u can clearly see on our ACR card it says Visa Type: Temporary Visitor and Visa Statis : Tourist
No where does it say Waiver
The Philippines grants visa-free entry to passport holders of certain countries while requiring a visa to others.
Non-visa required tourists:
http://www.immigration.gov.ph/visa-requirements/non-immigrant-visa/temporary-visitor-visa/visa-waiver
Yes, you are a touris, on a tourist visa waiver. No argument on that.
The policies do suck, both sides. Hopefully visas won’t be required in the near future.
Hi Loren – I saw that John Kerry said in the past few days that he wants to work out something agreeable to the Philippines and the USA, so maybe they are moving forward.
John Kerry wants to get involved? He’s unemployed in two months, If the Philippines will promise not to make nuclear, Kerry will give them 150 Billion and the right to attack US Ships.
Another guy with big love shown for Kerry eh Paul?…
I feel the same btw… I have a long memory..
President Duterte and his cabinet are pragmatic. As an American I am now required to get a 30 day visa, free upon landing. I don’t expect this to change. I do believe the President has suggested to America that it review its high denial rate for Filipino visitors. As a travel agent I’ve seen U.S. flexibility for medical emergencies when the person in the U.S. can detail the importance of the trip and the Embassy gets a lot of documentation – but I agree with you your nieces probably wouldn’t get visitors visas, because you are now in Davao.
Removing military from Mindanao, U.S. and Filipino, will make it easier for the peace process to move forward and hopefully to succeed. Mindanao could be a giant agricultural bowl, and manufacturing area with the potential for a number of deep water ports for direct export. When I lived and worked in Mindanao I hitchhiked safely all over the island. That can occur again.
The Philippines was illogically not part of the proposed Trans Pacific Trade group. China was also excluded. Building economic and tourism ties with nearby Asian countries is a win-win for the Philippines. The President has reopened fishing rights for Filipinos without going to war, and the banana exports will begin again. Mindanao should have seen preferential tariffs for tuna from GenSan and Sarangani but that hasn’t occurred.
The President during his campaign said he would work to increase the percent of a company that could be foreign-owned to 70%. That will bring foreign commerce and jobs to the Philippines. It may open up a lot more tourism as wholesalers work for volume not abusive individual charges..
America gave more to 30+ African small nations more foreign aid then it gave to the Philippines. And nearby Asian neighbors have been more generous. As Philippine prosperity grows those neighbors will benefit from Filipino tourists.
I judge the President by how successful he was in Davao City, making it one of the most progressive cities in Asia, without much help from Manila or Makati. Now he works for all cities and all Filipinos.
Go go President Duterte.
Hi Jeff – When you enter with a passport, that is a visa waiver, not the type of visa that President Duterte is proposing. I agree with you that the denial rate is far too high at the US Embassy in Manila.
there is no 30 day visa,,, you just land and they stamp your passport good for 30 days, visa requirement are automatically waived (if from USA)
Doesn’t matter what the term is. We get a free entry good for 30 days. I don’t expect a consulate visit visa will be required
There is one Philippine Embassy and 4 consulates in the US (http://www.philippineembassy-usa.org/philippines-dc/consulate-finder-dc/). If visits to one of these facilities is required for a visa then you will see a dramatic decrease in tourism to the Philippines. Who will suffer in the long run? The US? Doubtful. The loss of tourism dollars to the Philippines will take a long time to recoop as would-be visitors go to Thailand, Malaysia or other countries that don’t make it difficult to visit. Case in point: I would have visited China many times by now if not for visa requirements. When I have spare time, and cash, I will choose a destination that is easy to travel to.
In the past, for anybody wanting or needing a tourist visa, I could always be done by mail, travel was not necessary.
Free entry for 30 days and extend to 59, then get a visa to stay longer
Yes, but remember, your 30 days counts so in actuality, you have 29 days to get the extension. Lot of people don’t get that.
It’s still pretty easy to visit.
super easy to visit,, never had any issues
Jeff Jenks What Duterte is talking about is that Americans wil have to get a visa from the Consulate or Embassy, if he proceeds with his policy. Not sure if that would require a law to be passed or if it is within his right to institute that as President.
William D. Kash Can be extended up to 3 years without needing to actually go get a visa.
And if I get married?
William D. Kash If you get married you can then apply for a permanent resident visa and stay as long as you want.
Yippee!!
What if we are married then my husband still not get a permanent visa.what would be happen?
If you are married it should not be difficult for him to get a permanent visa.
The Cebu consulate is fully operational again as of this week.
Jason Silverman glad to hear that
i doubt he will institute formal visas. He’s not against American tourists, just some American government practices.
I think he is trying more to get better treatment for Filipinos seeking visas.
Bob Martin it is not impossible for a Filipino to get a visa. All you have to show you will leave. When 99% don’t have a job or a pot to piss in it is hard to convince the embassy people you have a desire to return. I know several Filipinos that come and go from the Filipinos including a family member that works in Saudi Arabia. I would like them to come up with a system where you can sponsor a visitor and be personally fined if they don’t return to their country. Obviously you wouldn’t sponsor someone that would disappear on you.
Hi Mel,
The current policy which has been in effect for many years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations is basically a Filipino cannot get a Tourist Visa unless they can show sufficient ties to their home country. I would think sufficient ties would be family, but the US government sees sufficient ties as money and property. Money can be moved and property can be sold. The current policy is wrong and discriminates against the 99% of Filipinos who are poor like my wife’s mom who has been denied twice. Old poor people with large families in the Philippines are a lot less likely to overstay their Visas that young well to do Filipinos, in my opinion. We have been doing what you think is smart and it has not worked.
Peace
Jay
+
Bob Martin Unless he has a conviction for a crime in the US. Referring to resident visa.
Mel Hill Gee Mel, you must be reading somebody else’s article and comments instead of mine, even though you addressed me. I have never said it is “impossible” for a Filipino to get a visa. If it was impossible I would have never seen my wife again after marrying her! I said that approximately 99% of all Filipinos cannot meet the US standards to get a visa and that is 100% factual. It certainly is not impossible, but it also is not very easy, in fact it is very difficult!
Mel Hill – there are some Americans that go to the Philippines that have no funds, but the Philippines lets them in, as long as they have a roundtrip ticket. Visiting friends or relatives, Kiwanis Lions and Rotary convents – all should be admissable. Too many Filipinos/as are denied when they have friends that would host them and make sure they return home.
Ya and he will succeed justifying and encouraging genocide. You are like those who cheered Hitler on 90 year ago.
Huh! You blame drug dealers killing their agents on Duterte? Those killings were higher per month before Duterte was president. I’ve watched the President since the 80s and met his father when he was Governor of Davao in the early 60s when I was a teacher in Davao. You must be drinking Delima tea.
Hmm.. No due process.. Just kill those you label as drug dealers.. You asshole are a Nazi..
In recent days it seems I am reading more and more anti-American items from PH. I have had 12 very successful visits to PH without having to have a visa prior to entry. Depending on the costs involved and how many hoops I would have to jump through to get a visa will determine any future visits from me. I think what started this and other anti-American things I have read lately is that foreign countries to PH including the USA look down on President Dutertes war on drugs. President Durturte gave those involved with illegal drugs fair warning as to how he is going to handle that situation so no one can say they were not warned. With the approval rating in his own country I feel he should not be interfered with from outsiders.
I feel that many potential visitors and tourists rather than get a visa will just go and spend their money elsewhere. This could very easily make many tourist oriented businesses out of business and many jobs lost.
” If ” all visitors will require a visa in the future, as I feel now I will consider it as all good things must come to an end. I have had 12 great vacation visits here, learned some of the culture, participated in some local civic things and made some long lasting contributions and donations. For myself I have accumilated aa lifetime of fond memories and I will not require a visa for those.
I will try and take a lets wait and see position for now as for the moment it is just talk.
Hi Bob – I would disagree that the war on drugs was the start of his feelings toward the US government (not American people, just the government) it actually goes way back probably 50 years or so. Of course the war on drugs has also been criticized by foreign nations as well, which only continues the negative feelings.
Hopefully things will work out where you will remain comfortable with visiting the Philippines many more times in the future!
And reading the writings on the wall of petulant children , in crayon no less, should always be dismissed as non sense. I have postponed now for atleast a year, a retiring Air Force filo by birth American by military is postponing an extra year, a 15 year resident is in the process of getting a visa for his wife so they can return to the USA , and a retired marine, 9 year resident is in the same process with his wife and step children.
As far as military leaving mindanao and bringing peace , uh no… Abu and all other nice peaceful folks will kill anyone that is not of their belief.
Equality in visa. … why ? The opportunities are different… not equal.
Life in a bubble can sure be fun.
If you life in a bubble is enjoyable, keep having fun! No sweat on my end, do what you like! 🙂
Not mine bob. But same back too you. And prayers still being said for your upcoming medical. I wish ya well.
I know what you meant, I just feel the same so I fired it back your way. Thanks for your well wishes on the medical front, it is appreciated.
Hi Bob. I am an Australian who has been here nearly 4 years. I have gone through all the processes and got my permenant visa here. Just need to report once a year. Dutertes plans should be no problem for me then?
As for politics here, I will play it safe and not comment.
Thanks
Hi Adam – Duterte has not really made a proposal yet, he only made a few comments. But, it sounds like you and are in the same boat with the resident visa, just reporting once per year. I don’t expect that there would be any changes for us, but we will have to wait for the proposal to come out before we know for sure!
I do say the USA is races toward Filipinos more than Mexicans.
Filipinos need to get:
Police report
Federal police report
Medical exam
Proof of property
Then they can still say no
Not only can they say no… they almost always do!
Hi there 🙂
I also am on a permanent visa (the SRRV from PRA one…). Just a thought about owning land…
I think that at least foreigners should be able to own 50%… As of now, there is not a day that I don’t hear a story about how a foreigner a bit “gullible” was crooked, lost all, and had to leave… Fast ! To avoid this kind of estafas, to raise the ownership to 50% may change this…
Now… Living near SBMA in Subic, I also can understand why philipinos are not very willing… Lots of lands there have been purchased by foreigners ( I won’t state the citizenship, but lots of people know who they are….), began a vague construction, then applied for huge loans from local banks, then left the country with all the cash an abandoned the place. Have you ever wondered why half of SBMA looks like a dump ???
About Pr. Duterte, my feelings are divided… Like most people I would say… Unlike “usual” other Presidents, this one “took the bull by the horns” and did quite a lot of good things…. And too bad for the hypocrites in occident who are shocked by how it was done ! When you go against thugs and gangs, you don’t go softly… You hit hard and thus he succeeded where our countries miserably failed !
Now his foreign policy seems a bit… Unsettling… Whilst I can understand his stand against USA and its quite usual “arrogance”, I feel uncomfortable to see him flirt with China, or even Russia…
Now, I live here, and I intend to continue to live here. I raise my family, which is here and not oversees ! And I won’t abandon my asawa and my step family who have been so welcoming and gentle with me, a foreigner with a different culture, differnt history, different ways of life…
One thing is for sure, Patrick, taking the bull by the horns is the way that Duterte does things.
Bob,
First of all my prayers go out to you on your upcoming surgery. That being said I would tend to agree with you about the remarks made by the president that you cannot put too much into what he first says, what a while and he will clarify them. On the topic of visa’s for other countries I really think it unfair, if the Philippines’ want to come to the U.S. get the government to reduce the fraud and other things to allow them to get on the VWP list that solves the problem. The one thing about having to get a visa is what about the requirement to register every year? My wife ( a Filipina ) is a green card holder and does not have to register once a year. Lastly what about the unfairness involved with opening a business, home ownership, and other things that I cannot do that my wife can do here.
Hi Steve, one thing is for sure, there is a lot of unfairness on both sides. I doubt it can all be worked out at one time, but maybe they can find somewhere to start.
Bob, whats your thoughts of the safety of going out in public and the people getting influenced by constant anti-American talk? my daughter already got discriminated against at school for being a fil-am. I am a permanent resident and my wife and daughter are dual citizens going on five years here in the Philippines.
So it begins…
Makes it a bit difficult to chill out after just reading Pres. Duterte is calling Americans stupid, pests and bullies. I don’t know how true that is but it appeared in an item on Rappler.
I have not seen that. I would assume he was talking about the US Government and not the people.
He has a point man, it was in general, not at politicians. Here in Iloilo two telemarketing firms just shut down and shipped out.
If Duterte succeeds in getting the foreign ownership amount to 70% like he mentioned during his campaign you will see a lot more large foreign companies. The President is smart. Outside foreigners are starting to look more carefully in a positive way towards the Philippines. During the past few days the peso has started to strengthen against the dollar.
Well, I am now getting flipped off and my son got into a fight at school. I’m happy to report that my son kicked his ass. Stood up for his old man. You go kiddo! I am at the school 3 times a day so no repercussions. Kid’s dad wants to see me? No problem, bring it on.
Not all this “craziness ” is coming from Duterte. I submit the recent foreign policy of the U.S. has contributed greatly to the problem. Over the last few years president Obama has alienated many of our “friends” by pushing our views /morals/ regime change upon countries such as Iraq, Israel, Russia, Libya, China to name a few.I can’t recall a time where the standing and repetition of the U.S. was more tarnished then now.
indeed, I think a great deal of the current situation stems from a lack of consistency and reliability of US foreign policy.
Yep, Kerry, HRC, Obama, the 3 worst negotiators in history. Thanks to them the US is no longer trusted by allies, and no longer feared by enemies.
It can happen in any country.
A good friend of mine retired from the US Navy, walked out the main gate and since he owned a house and Restaurant Bar and lived from 1989 until he passed away a few years back.
He never applied for any visa, and defiantly overstayed here in the Philippines. During his time his business did extremely well, and his employees were all long term, as he paid a fair wage, and never exploited them. All customers had to respect his servers and would be asked to leave if they didn’t plus he never broke any Filipino law.
When he passed away, his family could not remove his body and bury him in the US. So he was cremated and the ashes mailed illegally out of the country.
Ha ha ha. WHAT a story.
My takeaway is that expats should always have a quick exit strategy even if it’s never actually needed. So far, based on actions, not words, I like Duterte. He can insult Obama all he wants…. in fact if he needs some help……
Duterte has gotten plenty of criticism, so in keeping with the theme of my article, I guess turn around is fair play.
If a foreigner won’t retire here because of the hosts politics reminds me of those folks in the US that claim they are moving to Canada if one or the other US candidate is elected. Did any of those people check with Canada to see if they would be welcome there? I have said this on this site over and over that how they run their country is none of your concern. Because the truth is you are nothing but a visitor, and their guest. I’ve lived here under six of their elected presidents and nothing that happens politically has ever impacted my life pro or con. Bob said it the best, if that is all that would take to change your plans, you’d be wise to remain at home.
exactly my thoughts Paul. During the time I have lived here there have been political things that I like and things that I didn’t like here, but it never really affected my life at all. I just kept on enjoying my life in the Philippines, and not worrying much about the politics. If you are an expat here, and just follow the law. You really won’t ever be involved in the politics anyway, so why worry about it?
Bob… good article..
I recently arrived back here from the US. I go to the BI in Angeles city as that is closest to where I live. I had more paper work and investigation LEAVING the Phils than when I first came or when I returned. (I had been here longer than 6 months)
I am here on a tourist visa and plan on staying as such for my remaining years.
Leaving the country after 3 years for @ least 24 hours is not much of a problem to me.. lots of neighboring places I would like to visit..:)
As I said, I use the Angeles City BI. Other expats have told me it is the best they have encountered in their travels here… I have not used any other but this one has been very friendly and accommodating.
I picked up the paperwork a few days after I arrived as I like to have it filled out when I get there.
The form is way simpler now than it has been since I got here nearly 2 years ago. No copies.. no photos.. simple one page form.
I do not feel any different in my relations with Filipinos now than I did before the new pres was elected.
I wonder though if there is a policy change (and my understanding is that it can be done by executive order or even by the head of the BI) How will that effect guys like me that are here already on a tourist visa on a long term basis?.. I have no plan to move unless given no choice. I would have to be made to jump through an unbearable number of hoops to make me leave…lol
A very good article! 🙂
Thank you, Luanne.
I think the emphasis on “fairness” is misplaced.
Relationships between nations–even between friendly ones–are business relationships, not family relationships. I may be friends with my lawyer, or dentist, or grocer, but when it’s business, it’s business.
Business relationships are always negotiated, and leverage and constraints are always important factors–even in friendly negotiations.
Duterte isn’t interested in “fairness” here; he’s taking a negotiating position that works in his interest as the “tough-guy who gets things done.” Whether or not the Philippines has enough leverage to back up the tough stance is another matter.
The factors in the relationship between the US and the Philippines that lead to unequal visa requirements are obvious. The nations aren’t equal, and access to them is not equally valuable or desired. The club everybody wants into has bigger bouncers than the one that (relatively) nobody’s going to.
As an expat myself (living in Saudi Arabia) I don’t have a problem with Duterte doing what’s best for the Philippines. That’s his job.
But it’s pretty obvious that this negotiation between the Philippines and the US isn’t a bilateral concern. China knows what it wants in the South China Sea, and it aims to have it. Regardless of Duterte’s tough talk, the Philippines is going to end up being somebody’s client–and I’m pretty sure China squeezes its clients harder.
But I could be wrong.
Oh.. and btw… The Aussie who runs the copy/photo place right next to the Angeles BI is probably gonna be pissed if no more copies and/or photos required….I believe it was a major part of his business… all about location location location…lol
Dont you feel sorry for him?
Well honestly the Rappler is not really a great source of information that tells both sides of the story independently and it’s not neutral when it comes to reporting news besides being very critical of President Duterte on every single thing that comes out of his mouth.
I’m not saying that the President is correct on his way of getting his point across to the news media and reporters. But I do agree that he’s passionate about his Country and the Filipino people being taken advantage of and used by other Governments and even their own elected officials. He’s done more positive things in the almost 4 months since he’s been in office than the last President(s) that was in office for 6 years and more.
I just think that Americans and other Foreigners are jumping the gun and reading into his emotional speeches. Plus I honestly think that the foreign media is not reporting all the news only the bad and/or negative ones which is what really sells the newspapers and advertisements on radio and TV.
I’ve been living here for 4-1/2 years on a tourist visa and it used to be 18 months max before leaving to reset your Visa Clock and now it’s 36 months to do so. I have never felt unsafe for my life or felt taken advantage of while living in Ilocos Sur, Metro Manila and now in Pangasinan. I do respect the Filipino people and I do look up to them as well. I treat them as how I want to be treated which is in a peaceful way.
Traveling around the Pangasinan area I’ve noticed that the people are more outgoing and relieved that the President Duterte Campaign Against Drugs is working and that people are getting out of their homes more now.
While it’s not a perfect solution in dealing with the Drug Epidemic but it’s working effectively and can be improved more too. More drug rehabilitation centers needs to be built and funded. Then the next question would be what happens after these people complete the treatment and how do they get jobs so they can be productive to their society?
All sounds very reasonable to me!
Thank you! Rappler sounds like paid anti-Duterte media.
Please tell me how ” I do agree that he’s passionate about his Country and the Filipino people being taken advantage of and used by other Governments” the US and other countries are taking advantage of the filipino people. I agree the Philippine government takes advantage of the poor. I seee it the other wat around with all of the billions of dollars that OFWs send to the Philippines every year. The filipina ladies on line bilking billions from foreign men, maybe the Philippines should crack down on them and improve the view of filipinas.
I have a friend who has lived here since the Marcos day’s and never regretted a moment and never had a problem.
Yep, sounds like he learned to roll with the punches, go with the flow, accept political change here. I think it’s the best way to live.
Bob, can’t find the LIKE button. ?
According to a recent article in Philstar there are 7.5 million Philippine citizens in the USA, 5 million of which are there illegally, that is why it is a bit difficult to enter. I doubt if at any given time there are more than a few hundred US citizens in the Philippines illegally. You speak a lot about respecting the laws here shouldn’t the laws in the US be respected as well.
Absolutely the laws of the United States should be respected and followed. Unfortunately, the current Administration has chosen not to enforce United States immigration laws, and that’s not right. Any Filipinos or any other nationality who is in the United States illegally should be deported in my view. There should be no question about that, I have always been very clear.
The 2016 goal of 10 million tourist has come and gone and will not be met. The president can do what ever he likes but it will be at the cost of lost tourism revenues. Thailand and Bali will need to send a thank you letter to The president for being the best travel marketer of their no visa countries that ever lived. Everything has a real cost. Loose lips sink ships.
Philippines still has a no visa policy. Maybe it will change bit it still exists today.
You are correct but he is making the travelers nervous. That does not go well for a destination that many people all ready don’t trust.
Jason. Philippine tourism has never met its goals.
The country offers sun, sand, English, FRIENDLINESS towards Americans and great prices, if you’re a little flexible.
All the criticism is making travelers more curious. The upcoming Queens visit will make folks even more likely to visit.
More curious….. Google searches maybe but in plane tickets and hotels booked doubtful. My prediction is a drop in tourism for the short term. It will rebound after the world gets used to the new presidents verbal diarrhea .
Jason A. Barnhill foreigners will still come to visit the Philippines regardless of the President Duterte outspokenness against the US/EU negativity towards what’s happening with the EJK and his campaign against Drugs… The Philippines may lose some investors and visitors from US/EU but he’ll gain them back from China/Japan & possibly Russia as well… The dollar to peso rate is really high now (around 48 to 1) compared to when I first came to the Philippines in 2011 (around 40/41 to 1), so I think as the Philippines gets better against the Drug Epidemic and also dealing with corruption in the Government more people will be coming to visit the Philippines.
Jason A. Barnhill Sure as hell makes me nervous.
Its both: Some are realizing PH is an interesting destination-Some do not want to be anywhere near a country run by a man who is capable of speaking in public (or private) the slander and such that comes out of him. (I love the part that he gets stuff done!!! But what he can says is so extreme at times) In Europe Duterte is put on the level of Trump but increasingly even less FYI
Bottom line is that more Filipino people should support President Duterte to make these changes that’s been happening for years and change doesn’t happen overnight per say… Before things get better, some things will suffer because people need to change their ways too…
Plus I tell my fellow expats and foreign friends that if they don’t feel safe here in the Philippines then they can always move to another country or back to their country.
President Duterte is trying to establish to the Filipino people that the Republic of the Philippines to not be self reliant on any other Country and giving up their Beliefs while doing so…
Just my observation and opinion on how I view and read into the news and such…
Self reliant on loans from others….. that can’t be repaid. That should work fine. Declare sorta independence.
Time for expats to go dark.
Keep in mind that while our visa system is much more strict, we also give them much more freedoms. We don’t overcharge them just because they are filipino. On a work visa they can own and carry firearms, buy land, own a business. Additionally there is a path to citizenship in the US but not in the Philippines. No one is comparing apples to apples.
The path to citizenship has really been tightened and is a major campaign issue.
I know 3 Pinay that became citizens in less than 5 years in 2016. Not possible in the Philippines.
all comments are directed toward american govt personalities exclusively. Dutuerte has always been respectful and protective over americans residing here. He is very harsh in fact with the the personnel of the immigration office in davao to treat us fairly and with no form of disservice at all.
Exactly, John, it is directed to the US govt. You and I may be the only people commenting who actually know Duterte, and have experience with him.
Fair is Fair filipinos can go the US, weather legal or illegal, and buy property as can people from any country. Foreigners in the Philippines are not allowed to own property. The foreigners that are living here are not a drain on the government, and spend a considerable amount of money here. As for foreigners in the US a lot end up on welfare, try getting on erlfare here. Just a thought.
This point has already been brought up and I agree that foreigners should be able to buy property in the Philippines, although it is an entirely different issue.
From your post “Visas are something that are usually handled on a reciprocal basis.” How is that a different issue? So the US needs to stop Filipinos from purchasing property in the US unless they are married to an American and the property has to be in the American’s name. This means you own nothing in the Philippines but your wife owns a lot.
I find the part of the aryical misleading when you stated an American can stay here 36months without a Visa. That is untrue because u must keep ur tourist visa current with all the fees that go with it.
I am sorry, what I wrote is entirely true. You are not extending a tourist visa, you are extending the tourist visa WAIVER. When you enter with nothing but your passport that is not a visa, that is a visa waiver.
Then why is it when you go the the website it says tourist Visa not tourist visa Waiver. Same thing when I had to go to the BI every couple of months on the application you have to fill out every time it said tourist visa right there on the application it did not say tourist visa waiver even on the ACR card you get it says tourist visa(pic attached)
visa wavier is only 30 days but after that you apply for a 2 month tourist visa which you can only apply for 2 months and keep applying up to 36 months I think and then you have to get out the country and come back in again(please correct if I am wrong.. I like your article. great read
Exactly thank you. The waiver is only for the first 30 days thats why you are not charged for it.
NO… not right… the tourist extension is an extension of the tourist visa WAIVER.
An actual VISA has to come from the Philippine consulate or embassy.
You all think it is a question of semantics but there IS a difference.
Duterte states that he wants a more equitable visa policy.
If changed then the current visa WAIVER for US tourist’s might very well be replaced by having to obtain an actual visa from the Philippine Govt.
you are exactly correct. Few people seem to understand how it works.
Food for thought. If the US had an open door visa policy with the Philippines which means anybody with a Philippine passport can just fly to the US. That means any member of the Abu Sayaf with a Phillipine passport can just fly to the US, and they commit a Terroist attack in the US guess whi the American public will blame?
Also the other day it was found out about the fixers in the Department of Foreign Affairs were selling and giving Filipino passports to Indonesians. So what is to say a terrorist organization is willing to pay big money to get a Philippine passport and send them to the US vise free to bomb and kill American citizens?
The US currently has basically an open door policy with Mexico and all of Central America. Why should the Philippines be treated differently? I disagree with that policy, I think it should be tight for all countries. I also think it should not be a problem for Americans to appy for a visa just like any other nation.
Do you agree their os terrorist groups in the Philippines who have pledged aligence to Isis or other terrorist groups who would cause harm to the US and its citizens. Also I am for stricter border protection even though I am not a Trump supporter.
Also when you have fixers in the DFA that will sell a Filipino passport no a person who is not a Filipino yhe IS policy will never change.
Bob Martin we do not have an open door policy Mexico and most of Central America. A visa is required and not easily obtained. Hence the illegals here.
Ha ha. You have to be kidding me. So are you saying those 11 million illegal aliens have visas?
That doesnt mean its open door. Those people are criminals, face hardship while here working for less than minimum wage, and can face deportation.
David Bruns there are terrorists coming in from lots of countries and little is done to stop them. I am for strong borders. I do not believe it should be easy to come from any country including the Philippines. But I also see no problem with Filipinos strengthening their own border controls.
Joshua Hodo I didn’t say it is an open border, I said it is basically an open border. Basically it means a big difference, it means that nothing is being done currently to stop them.
I agree that they should streangthen theirs also. They should probably start with Western Mindanao and sulu archipelago region where all the Malaysian terrorist come in.
Sure, Joshua, I think they should strengthen the borders just like I think the United States should as well. I have no problem with that. Requiring people to have a Visa is one way to strengthen the borders and see who’s coming in. Maybe we are in agreement?
But you don’t see Americans running around the streets of Manila shooting people like the isis inspired terroristsi in Paris or American suicide bombers at NAIA blowing themselves up like Isis members in Belgium. You don’t see an American and hia Filipina wife going into a call center and shooting up the place like in San Bernardino.
I just dont agree with Duturte using the US as an excuse because of our strict policy. There is no comparison, the rights of individuals are vastly different when in each country.
Bob Martin Actually the US does not have an open door policy with Mexico. These are criminal invaders who shold be shot upon entry, they will stop real quick then. What the US has is agovernment that does not want to enforce immigration laws. Hopefully Trump will get elected and put this to a top. I have already sent my vote for Trump mailed in PhilPost on Oct 10 here in CDO, cost PHP 1,202. The fastest post available was told would take one week to arrive to the final destination in Florida, Arrived Oct 26 in Florida after being in the US for 1 day Two weeks to get from CDO to the US.
Exactly. Criminals are coming across the border, and nothing is being done to stop them that’s what I keep saying over and over, maybe you haven’t read all of my comments. I agree with you, they should be stopped, I have said nothing otherwise. Shoot them at the border, I have no problem with that they’re breaking the law. Why do you think that I think differently than that?
So you think that after the shooting in San Bernardino where one of the shooters came to the US on a Fiancee’ visa the US will change the visa policy with a country with terrorist groups who pledged alligence to Isis?
Also just because illegal immigrants come over the southern boarder doesnt mean the US should lessen visa requirments
Of course I think that if there are countries represent a terrorist threat, the Visa regulations should be very tight. How could anybody think otherwise?
So hense the visa requirements will not slacken here has long as you have terrorist groups in Mindanao kiddnaping and choping off the heads of foreigners.
There are terrorists in every country. There are American terrorists, so should the Philippines ban every American? Of course not!
But like i commented you don’t see Americans running around the streets of Manila shooting people like the isis inspired terroristsi in Paris or American suicide bombers at NAIA blowing themselves up like Isis members in Belgium. You don’t see an American and hia Filipina wife going into a call center and shooting up the place like in San Bernardino.
But you do see filipino islamic terrorists choping off the heads of 2 Canadians this year and now in the last week kidnapped 5 filipinos and 1 Korean
I can understand wanting fairness. So lets let all Filipinos visit USA VISA free, but not allow them to get a job or own land. Have them pay to extend VISA every 2 months and allow 36 month stay. Say goodbye to peso 480 billion in remittances…..fair is fair.
Best response
Agreed. Fair is fair right.
Also they cannot own a business either 100%.
Awesome concept!
Thats the main problem with these types of arguments, The pro Filipino ( which i am neither as i am married to one ) wants more then fair. They want free rights to enter even tho they have no money or job, they want to own land, draw from our SS and make as much money as possible to send back to the Philippines. Americans who move to Philippines spend most of their money there. They help Filipino family members and risk loosing everything when they start businesses with them or buy land in their name. We are granted nothing in the way of employment, no land ownership and God forbid if you get sick.
The main reason the Philippines has such a relaxed policy on foreigners visa requirments is because of the money that hudreds of thousands that these foreigners spent here. Sounds like Duyerte is a little butt hurt because he was denied a vis years ago. He is going to deny the people of the Philippines the resources that the foreigners bring to this country. I get $1,622.22 a month which probably low so 500,000 foreigners times $2,000 a month that $1 billion dollars amonth 12 Billion a year. The Philippines lives on forwign money that plus all of the money OFWs send home foreign aid. Sounds like he is not thinking this thru. and will end up destroying the already weak economy. The Philippines is a coutry of the rich by the rich abd for the rich. The poor need to just stay in the provencies and not bother the rich. Just watch them on tv and fawn over them.
That’s my point. They claim independence yet are completely dependent on so much of the world, not just America. And if they will kill their own neighbors in the streets over a drug problem… when do they get wound up and kill some foreigner in the street throw a sign on his dead body and watch no investigation happen, no justice…. but as usual I must surely be wrong.
If there is one thing I have learned here during my first year which I celebrated Oct. 08,; is that if you are a foreigner and you complain about ANYTHING, you are automatically WRONG. It doesn’t matter, it can be that your neighbor collects his dog’s indoor litter box for a month and then burns it on his side of the fence which is near your front door. YOU are wrong to complain.
Hey Bob you opened a can of worms here I have said enough. I hope everything i going well with your doctors, God bless and have a good day, you are in my prayers.
Thank you Darryl, I didn’t mean to open a can of worms, just discuss the current situation. I wish you well also, and hope you have a good evening.
tourism over ONE TRILLION A YEAR. yea lets limit that. pshaw
How correct you are Daryl!
Was thinking of doing the same type of article. 🙂
Hi Rusty – I think that most expats are going a little overboard on this. It is too early to even know what will happen, if anything at all. Worst case scenario, I think, people who wan to travel to the Philippines will have to get a visa. I don’t think it will be difficult or costly to get.
Bob it would have been difficult for me to get it when I came over as it would require a flight to DC. I don’t really think it is a bad idea for the Philippines other than perhaps causing people to go elsewhere. But you are right about overboard. It doesn’t help with people posting misinformation on social media. I am concerned but not panicked. Looks like I might have to go to Manila to renew my passport and that is a major issue. I am just trying to save for the fees without having to take a trip to Manila too.
No visit to the Embassy or Consulate is necessary for a tourist visa. It can all be done by mail.
Bob, not in every case. Our filipine embassy requires a visit in person unless you live more than a certain distance away, 2-3 hours travel from memory.
If it can all be done by mail and at a modest cost, I’ll be back. For now lets wait and see. By the overwhelming response to this article it demonstrates the concern many of us have, at least those that come for enjoyable visits like myself. I have no problem with visa by mail.
Foreigners from Western countries, can fly into many places with beaches and beer and food. Easy peasy…. make it the slightest bit difficult the possibility of going elsewhere rises. Demand for equality when all things are not equal is funny at best but very normal to get the filipinos all charged up on pride.
Honesty with this administration is not going to be possible . Confusion on every issue is the norm. Say three different things in three different days. Then let the excuses and justification of the court jester begin. In 6 years get ready for the Pacquiao administration
Presidents have spokesmen for a reason. He should let him do the talking for him.
As i said B4 !!!! Bob for President !!!
I don’t think they are going to tighten visa restrictions for tourists that would cost them millions in tourist business and drive people to Malaysia, Thailand or Vietnam.. I do think they are going to raise fees on longer term visas and OFWs..
So far Duterte has been trying to LOWER fees and DFA is under pressure to process things within a day as NORMAL. Watch and calm down.
That shouldn’t affect foreigner married to Filipina like balikbayan visa right? Yeah, US makes its so tough to come in legally, yet want to amnesty illegals. Illegals getting free health care and voting isn’t right though. I don’t agree with Americans that want English national language. We should be multilingual here too
Us has to make it tough because once they come over the border they are here for good.. I would suggest that they streamline and automate the process though.. They should be able to even do it online.. Too much bureracy.
US hardly ever deports someone unless they are criminals
Most countries have a national language…. period. It’s called communication not confusion. Yes your right the language of business and the wotld is English we should just be mad about that. Give me a break.
Omg, so most countries have multiple languages like Canada is English and French. Europeans speak many languages. Americans are at a disadvantage. Americans should know Spanish too as Mexico, Central American countries, and South America all speak Spanish. English only is very limited. My wife knows Cebuano, Tagalog, and English. Many filipinos learn Chinese or Japanese too. We live in A global world.
Thats the school system. Foreign language is optional.. It should be mandatory.
And in business the global world speaks english. Period. It is a fact…. have you not noticed this. Global world is a redundant statement by the way. That my friend is english
Yes mandatory…. who needs choice, freedom, liberty… let’s all be forced to do everything . We should all end up so happy and the same. Free will ! That’s English also…. dang if I was so smart to be multi lingual how much better I would be.
Kids learn Eubonics here does that count?
We have many languages… Atleast dialects…. urban, ghetto, hillbilly, redneck, mississippi, bostonian… come on were multi language….
Ya you can be one those ignorant assholes that yells at the Mexicans at burger King to speak English or just accept it and learn a few words.. I imagine you prefer to be an asshole and die from a brain anyerisim.
Beanahole Gardner you shouldn’t visit or retire in the Philippines then if your so arrogant that you refuse to speak any of their language. You speak the obvious. Everyone knows English as business language. Have you been to a country where most people don’t speak English and force them to converse with you in English? I didn’t know a simple statement about multilingual would be so vigorously attacked.
Nope not even upset. Pushing buttons. But…. if you work at burger King and your customer is obviously smerican, in america…. yeah speak English to me. Now if I was at burger King in mexico…. yes I should know the language atleast… Ya know … I’ll have… hmm meal uno
Paul Blackburn when did I say
.. when in the philippines ? Your Staten was… america should have many languages…. your so multi lingual your reading comprehension has lost its effectiveness.
Btw… been there, lived there snd got along fine. Some miscommunication to be expected but mostly fine thank you.
That’s why Americans are perceived as rude and arrogant. You proved my point here and there.
Ya guys like cornhole prove the stereotype to be true..
Haha… we are rude and arrogant… no perception needed. And I guess by calling me arrogant. You had no argument left. So end on your terms and pat yourself on the back. A good superior American. You should be proud.
Hey Cornhole here’s a movie for you to enjoy https://youtu.be/aM8iT1UHnjI
I can imagine Beanhole getting worked up over some immigrant not speaking English with him with the veins popping out of his neck having to go on blood pressure medicine and wondering why his dick won’t get hard for his 20 year old filipino anymore..
No one lines up at 3 am or ever will at the Philippine embassy here in Washington DC hoping for a visa.. They do line up at the one in Manilia though.. Duterte needs to get over himself and realize that the Philippines is not the most desirable location for immigration..
If the Philippines isn’t so desirable why are you there? Why not in France? Or Libya?
I am not in the Philippines I was only there because my company sent me there. People will do most anything to get to a western country they won’t do the same to get to the Philippines.. You know that.
Let’s count down… 1st, 2nd, 3rd….. there is no 4th. So 3rd is last. Yes let’s all go to the last the desire of the world population is last place.
The problem isn’t what actual laws or policy changes actually occur. The problem is that the rabid followers of this President listen to the things he says and they ACT ON IT.
Right now, it’s open season on drug dealers and even drug users. Blow somebody away, hang a cardboard sign on their corpse that says “drug dealer” and there will be no investigation. The President has spoken: “You have my full support” he said. Blatantly.
His anti-American rhetoric may well only be toward the US government, but those aren’t the words he speaks. And the DU30-ciples out there don’t hear all of the “what the President MEANT was…” spokespeople. They only hear their dear Supreme Leader saying that Americans are the problem.
THAT is my main concern.
Not his potential future actions.
Not any potential changes to visa policy.
Not his own personal feelings toward foreigners.
Just the fact that his “Dueterte Squads” will take it upon themselves to do what THEY THINK HE WANTS THEM TO DO.
Bingo
Bingo! 2
I just hope anti american sentiment does not start due to all this, i’ve seen a little bit in social media already.
Totally Agree!!!!
Any political enemy is a target.. That’s the issue..
I visit Gen san in Mindanao every year. The embasy says I shouldn’t :).
Last time you visited was that mass killings going on in the streets since May 3800 dead Filipinos killed by their own people died because of drugs so nice little white boys with the president saying for Americans in the Philippines if you’re white you’re an American all it takes is one crazy person to have fun laugh it off that’s generally what somebody’s doing right before the fun end…. and people call me arrogant and stupid all day long I guess the right
That’s an official advisory they do that so if something happens to you they can say you were warned.. I was in Kiamba a couple years ago despite the warnings I never felt I was in danger.
Yes. Agree.
wow… reading some of these comments almost makes me hope a stricter visa policy IS in fact enacted..
I have been thinking exactly the same thing. The comment alone that there is a need for stricter enforcement. Sad to say, but that’s how it appears to me.
I think another reason it is hard for Filipino(a)s to get a US visa is that there are many who go to America and end up living off of the system (govt assistance) due to various situations. Also, the ones who have a work visa for the US send a good chunk of the money back home instead of spending it in the US economy these and many other factors put economic strain on the US economy…. Most Westerners who go to the Philippines go and SPEND their money, bringing revenue to the Philippines and a majority of the visitors aren’t looking to stay there. So by communicating this message that Pres Duterte is considering doing this as well as the numerous other things he has said regarding the US, it is going to have a dramatic effect on tourism which at this time the duration/impact of has yet to be seen/felt…..
Chris,
I agree with your analysis regarding the visa and differences in resulting uses, but we cannot expect the Filipino with a grudge to see it that clearly.
I disagree that the tourism industry is not feeling the impact yet. There are cancelled bookings and empty resort rooms all over Palawan, Mindanao, Cebu, Boracay, etc.
I myself cancelled a planned trip due to the bombing in Davao. While not related to the visa issue, that bombing was a planned attack against innocents brought about by Abu Sayef in retaliation for Duterte’s (unfulfilled) promise to wipe them from Philippines.
Ya, Im getting a little worried with all of this since I am retiring next Sept and planned to be living in the Philippines the following late Spring… My wife and I are both really paying attention to this. We already have a house there and now our future and our children’s future are being impacted even if only temporarily at this time. I hope Bob is right in that Duterte often speaks first then reconsiders, but just because he may reconsider, doesn’t mean those people whose mind has had his initial stance planted in their minds will to the same.
I’m in same boat going there permanently in july 2017 and i’ve been getting concerned a little but i dont really worry about anti-us sentiment too much in the population, loving america is kind of in the genes there.
I think it will be fine.
Great article Bob. Hope you are doing well. I have been absent from the site for a while so I am doing some catch up. Cheers D
Hi David. Thanks, glad you enjoyed the article. I am doing as well as I can for now. Hoping to have my heart surgery soon.
Hi Bob
Can you explain why Duterte and Alvarez both support Americans getting visas (who are mainly Americans of Filipiono descent) and not other countries that require visas like China, Japan, South Korea and Europe. Alvarez has also mentioned that if Americans come in less numbers doesn’t matter since we get so many others from Asia. I guess he doesn’t realize Americans are number 2 at around 750k. Seems like a huge bias against Americans.
A side note. My girlfriend works at a resort and the guests usually are there for diving and prostitution. Most Chinese guests share rooms and don’t use GRO’s. She joked they would lose a lot of business if Chinese are the main tourists.
The reason is once upon a time, long long ago, when Duterte requested an entry visa to US, he was denied; and so he holds that grudge like a bulldog holds a beef-steak.
Hi Bob,
Would anything President Duterte has said have any effect on Balikbayan Privilege visits?
Peace
Jay
hi Jay, at this time there’s just no way to know. No laws have been proposed no executive orders given or proposed, all we know is that he is proposing that Americans need a visa. The only thing we can do is wait and see what happens.
Hi Bob,
Thanks for the prompt response! I hope all goes well with your surgery. I just sent you a short food article that I think your readers may enjoy.
Peace
Jay
thank you Jay.
Hi Bob,
Glad to hear your operation is close. Wishing you all the best with that, and a speedy recovery afterwards.
Another good article, and so true. Reading the comments it seems that a lot of people have concerns. I think your attitude of just going with whatever the laws/rules are is the best attitude. A foreigner can complain, bitch and moan as much as they like about any law or rule, but at the end of the day, it has to be followed. It’s a lot less stressful to just follow the law or rule.
That said, I certainly do feel that reciprocity is an interesting issue. If we take each item separately, then there isn’t much reciprocity between the Philippines and Western countries. But if we take a group of rights and privileges, then I think that Westerners come out a little worse off. Yes, indeed, we can come here without a visa, and extend that stay up to 36 months. And Filipinos can’t do that with any Western country I know of, and, as you point out, most Filipinos can’t get a visa to many countries at all.
However, let’s look at land ownership – possible for Filipinos in most Western countries, not possible for any foreigners in the RP. Condo ownership – possible for Filipinos in most Western countries, but in the RP only 40% of condos in a complex can be owned by foreigners. Starting or buying a business is possible for Filipinos in most Western countries, but only certain classes of visa holder can start or buy a business here.
On balance, I think that the visa waiver program is great, but if the RP seeks reciprocity, what would happen if Western countries applied reciprocity across the board? Filipinos couldn’t own land, start or buy businesses (except if on specific visas) or buy more than 40% of condos in each complex. I am not advocating for total reciprocity, just pointing out what a difference it would make to many thousands of Filipinos living abroad.
And, finally, I’m more than happy living here with President Duterte in charge.
First of all, I’ll say this is a good article. I also would like to say is that reciprocal visa policy is nonsense. I say this because 1. The USA is one of the most popular tourist spots on the planet. Too many people trying to get visas to visit and never leave. 2. USA tourists going to the Philippines is number 2 in the world. More money is spent in the Philippines from visiting tourists than Filipino’s visiting the USA, 3. I will say this that there are far more Filipino TNT in the USA than American TNT in the Philippines. I also wonder if they will get rid of the Balikbayan visa as well, but as of the day of writing this I contacted the Philippine Embassy in Los Angeles and Washington DC, and they said all visas remain the same.
In my opinion, if they desire to make US citizens get visas, fine but then they should allow US citizens who live in the Philippines legally own land just as the USA does for green card holders from the Philippines. Now if anyone does not like my comments, you have the choice to read or not to read, I personally don’t care about your responses, and will not respond to them.
US citizens enjoy no visa or visa upon arrival with 166 nations. The length of stay varies from nation to nation. I would be okay with a 30 day and to extensions, but limit it at that. If I had to get a visa to enter the Philippines, I would probably go somewhere else.
My understanding is Filipino people generally like Americans. It seems like quite a dilemma.
I wonder how many Filipino-Americans overstay in the Philippines as opposed to white Canos. When you consider there are over 3.4 million F/As living in America.
While the Philippines was not part of the list— and the year-end ICE report did not mention its ranking— the population of undocumented Filipinos (270,000) in the U.S. remains to be the second highest, slightly after Chinese (280,000), among the Asian groups.
This information take from below
Read more: http://globalnation.inquirer.net/95751/us-deported-around-369000-immigrants-in-2013#ixzz4OWunRUnR
I suspect that is more than the total number of Canos living in the Philippines, both documented and undocumented.
My 36 month stay expires in September of 2017. Heading back to the States after that. Sooner if it starts getting ugly. I’ve already heard stories of several foreigners being harassed and told to get out. I can sense this rise in nationalism and anti-western attitude since Duterte has taken office. Just have to sell my condo which I will put on the market shortly. Unfortunately I wont get back the 3.5 million pesos I spent helping my girlfriends family and setting up a Salon and Spa business for her. At least I can say I have helped the Filipino economy while I was here. Loved the people and deeply respected them but the country really needs to work on its infrastructure which is something I will not miss.
every despot needs a scapegoat
They are asking FIL-Am’s to visit the Philippines in this article
http://manilastandardtoday.com/lifestyle/destinations/216877/-no-place-like-home-teo-reminds-fil-ams.html
but in the article below President Duterte says FIL-Americans no longer considered Filipino
http://www.netiviral.com/president-duterte-filipinos-america-dont-count-americans-not-filipinos/
So which is it have us visit, or ostracize us from the Philippines and our heritage
Perhaps you would be better served to ask that question of your Philippine President.
$160 a day for cruise living will run you $4,800 a month minimum. Good luck with that. Maybe you could take a basic math class while you are at it.
LOL Jerald L.
I’m going to start telling everybody that I am not American. Perhaps Canadian?
Well I can’t see that working as I am British and ppl say look there’s an American there was a German and everybody was calling him American!
I have told everybody that I am from Briton every time they say what part of America do you come from I don’t have an American accent I tell them I am not American I am a Briton, the point is if your white then your classed as American
Best Regards,
James.
James ~ Hmmm….Then I guess changing my skin color to black won’t work either ?
Well there is an American here in my subdivision and he is very dark in skin colour and he is still known as an American, so I would say no it will make no difference what so ever!
Ppl here will know that your American if you have been here for a few months then accept this fact nothing you can do to change that fact, saying your something that you are not are you living your life or someone else’s !
Walk tall and smile it does help!
My thoughts on this matter are, you are what you are and you are whom you are!
Just my point of view!
Best Regards,
James.
Hi Bob –
I’m sort of “late to the game” here, on this topic, but it seems as though I’m awash with “tuppence” these days, so here’s mine:
OH, the hand-wringing, wailing, and teeth gnashing on the various Expat-oriented blogs, Yahoo and Google groups, and Facebook offerings. One would think that all who are not naturally born and always Philippine-resident Filipinos and Filipinas are about to be rounded up, forced to live in a ghetto near Bilibid, and await a decision on deportation or worse. All of this because a patriot expresses his sentiments on the dignity and inherent qualities of his fellow Pinoys and Pinays.
Regardless of yellow sheet propaganda, and efforts to cause a stir in a nation that is trying, once again, to establish its firm footing in the world, one needs to look deeply into the man and realize the goodness that resides therein.
History seems to be attempting a reiteration of the call to anarchy and severe dismay in a duly elected official, hoping to quash the hopes of many, just so the select few may continue to enjoy benefits that they’ve secluded to themselves.
Expats, foreigners, visitors, Balikbayans, whomever you align yourself – take heart. It’s called “Change” and it’s not to be feared. The upstanding among you will never have need for regret, and need not be fearful. The evil among you – be very fearful. Your “days of wine and roses” are deservedly turning to “vinegar and thorns.”
That’s all tuppence buys.
11/3/2016 21:14 EST
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Risk of Kidnapping in Southern Cebu – http://www.philippineslifestyle.com
MANILA, Philippines – The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens that terrorist groups are planning to conduct kidnappings in areas frequented by foreigners on the southern portion of Cebu Island, specifically the areas around Dalaguete and Santander (to include Sumilon Island).
U.S. citizens should avoid travel to these areas and are reminded to review personal security plans; remain aware of their surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
Furthermore, the Embassy wishes to remind all U.S. citizens of the most recent Department of State Worldwide Caution, dated September 13, 2016, which indicates there is an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against United States citizens and interests abroad, including the Philippines. Extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, markets, mass transportation systems – including airlines, and other public venues where large crowds gather. Crowded nightclubs, shopping malls, buses, and popular restaurants have also been targets. The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the importance of taking preventative measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines.
This message was disseminated on November 3rd, 2016.
DU30 just said that drug dealers are resorting to KFR, so the US Embassy warning applies nationwide.
Wait a minute! Exactly WHO said the Embassy warning now applies nation-wide?
Okay, not the US Embassy warning, but if drug pushers exist nationwide and they are resorting to KFR, it stands to reason that it is a nationwide problem.