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Why is the Philippines so poor and what should be done

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Tsmslf
  4/12/2019 13:00 EST

a) Why is the RP economically poor
AND
b) what can be done to cure the issues.

From afar, it seems to me that the ban on aliens owning land is one fact which restrains economic growth by limiting the increase in new wealth. Alien purchases are akin to OFW remittances and bring new wealth into the RP which is always a source of new economic activity some of which always trickles down to the poor.
I don't think it's a silver bullet - there is none - but it seems to be one point which could only help.

What do you think?

acol
  4/12/2019 14:26 EST

Land ownership can be an issue to under-development. Tourism is another issue even if I have read it well, over the past 5 years tourism doubled from 3 to 6 millions. But is tourism a solution? Improvement in infrastructure is absolutely necessary. I am living in Puerto Princesa. Brown-outs almost every day, Wifi disruption and now restriction on water distribution.

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Robertdav298
  4/12/2019 14:36 EST

My view is that the MAIN PROBLEM for the RP seemingly poor is:

1) corruption
2) instability of government

The RP is actually a very wealthy country but the government has been so corrupt that the wealthy continue to steal from the poor.
Example taxes paid by individuals from all the islands goes to MANILA. Then Manila supposedly will distribute money for projects i.e. infrastructure, schools which it has been doing but FIRST in MANILA and most recently DAVAO.

Another factor is the disparity in wages i,e, daily wages minimum, wage scale for professionals, doctors, nurses, engineers as compared to more lucrative countries like JAPAN, SINGAPORE, US, DUBAI, KUWAIT.....etc. These highly trained people leave the RP because they can make more elsewhere. Something must be done to keep these people in the RP.

Education at all levels contributes to the lack of discipline of the people not simply in schools but education in daily life i,e, personal hygiene, disposal of trash, parenthood, birth control and much more.

This all starts from the top down to the lowest village, captains, mayors, school officials etc.
This restructuring will take decades to make the RP a growing and wealthy place to live and work.

Lastly I DO NOT AGREE with allowing people from other countries to buy land without being married to a RP Citizen........we have that now with the so called "paper marriages".

My reasoning for this is by allowing such, you run the risk of the CHINESE, KOREANS and JAPANESE simply buying everything they can and basically owning your country.
The chinese are already migrating to the RP in huge numbers every week.

Tsmslf
  4/12/2019 14:46 EST

These seem more like symptoms than the disease. Why are there brownouts etc would seem to be the better reason.

Too, is a brownout a result of an economic problem or a management problem?

Not trying to be difficult, just am fascinated about this topic and interested in arriving at a better understanding of its bases.

Cheers.

Tsmslf
  4/12/2019 14:51 EST

I remember when the Japanese were going to buy up the united States. A Japanese group bought my country club (Riviera Country Club; Pacific Palisades CA). We survived the purchase and the Japanese were/are good owners. Why do I care what nationality owns various properties? I don't understand the economic logic behind that. Can you explain it some?

Tsmslf
  4/12/2019 14:56 EST

To your point about taxes going into Manila, we have that situation in the US where as all federal taxes go to Washington where Congress, in its infinite wisdom, distributes the bucks around the world/country. I think that's true world-wide too.

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BlueJeepney
  4/12/2019 16:14 EST

Tsmslf - I don't know anything about Palawan's problems and I'm not in the Philippines yet but I would say the brown outs are most likely a result of bad planning. Planning engineers here in the U.S. usually look out at least five years ahead when forecasting load demand, population and industry growth have to be estimated so infrastructure and supply can keep up. if this is the case it won't be solved overnight and as the weather gets hotter it will get worse. The type of load has a big impact in planning as well, the modern grid has to account for all the reactive loads such as A/C, computer fans, basically anything with a motor requires reactive support that your resistive toaster doesn't. Over the last few years here on our grid we've had a lot of large server farms installed i.e. Google, Amazon, Facebook and even Bitcoin miners in central WA, these weren't properly planned for because there wasn't time but the money was good and now we find ourselves with contingencies we didn't have to deal with before.

Robertdav298
  4/12/2019 16:17 EST

Yes I have heard that about the Japanese about being good owners but I have also heard from people that work for Japanese companies that they are very tight with their money and very strict with their employees......this could be both good or bad.
Sorry for not elaborating more but what I meant, especially about the CHINESE, is simply that the RP has been subject to being overtaken i.e.past history.......so this could happen very easily with CHINA economically overtaking the RP.
They have the money, resources and economic power to do so.

redlandchuck
  4/12/2019 18:18 EST

My response will probably cause some controversy. I think one of the big problems here that keeps most Filipino poor is the Catholic Church. By banning Abortion and divorce families grow too much and hard to support as far as education and jobs. So many single moms are poor because their husbands abandon them without support and live with mistress and the women cannot remarry. I think the Church should modernize like in the USA. Also enforce the Laws.

redlandchuck
  4/12/2019 18:18 EST

My response will probably cause some controversy. I think one of the big problems here that keeps most Filipino poor is the Catholic Church. By banning Abortion and divorce families grow too much and hard to support as far as education and jobs. So many single moms are poor because their husbands abandon them without support and live with mistress and the women cannot remarry. I think the Church should modernize like in the USA. Also enforce the Laws.

charkee
  4/12/2019 20:51 EST

My brother worked as an apartment manager for a Chinese owner. He managed 350 apartments in San Jose, California.

The owner came once a month flying in from Hong Kong to go through every single apartment that didn't have a renter. He went over everything to the penny.

He did this for 25 years and never missed checking out the unrented apartments to ensure my brother wasn't renting them out and keeping the money for himself.

My brother hated his boss and dreaded his monthly visits. Monthly rental proceeds was well over a quarter million dollars a month that after taxes ended up in Hong Kong.

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charkee
  4/12/2019 20:55 EST

If anybody really wants to understand why such poverty in the Philippines or other 3rd world nations (please don't argue the term) Watch the youtube videos by John Perkins, Confessions of an Economic Hitman.

I've seen some of this stuff up close and dirty in Central America.

BlueJeepney
  4/12/2019 21:27 EST

Charkee - I read the book, I think the Chinese are up to the same shenanigans now.

Tsmslf
  4/12/2019 22:44 EST

I'm no apologist for the Church but your response is fallacious in that the government should simply legalize divorce and ignore the Church. Then you have no argument. It's done that way in most countries I believe. I alsoo think they should enforce support laws as well.

Tsmslf
  4/12/2019 22:55 EST

The ssecond part of your post with which I disagree concerns abortion which is not a cheap medical procedure which also carries emotional pain. Better the Church permit contraception and avoid abortion all together. The Church's natural contraception approach does not work and they know it. I know it too as my wife and I used to play Vatican roulette and we lost most of the time though my kids are great - all 5 of them.

Then, of course, abstinence is possible if you can't afford children just as chastity is possible though unlikely for most of us.

None of this causes poverty in the country though. If we reduced the population by say 20 million citizens, there would be far less economic activity i.e., demand which is what drives the production of economic goods and services which results in GDP, i.e., money and wealth.

insite
  4/12/2019 23:01 EST

Demand is what rapes our planet and destroys the very environment on which we depend for life .........

Have you heard of climate change ?

insite
  4/12/2019 23:01 EST

Demand is what rapes our planet and destroys the very environment on which we depend for life .........

Have you heard of climate change ?

Earnestndeavor
  4/12/2019 23:06 EST

While I can’t contribute anything meaningful to the discussion at this point, I find it real interesting and sure like reading what others think.

insite
  4/12/2019 23:08 EST

PROFOUND WORDS

It appears that nature is starting to take revenge at the developed world's disregard for its Co2 emissions but it seems that it is taking it out on the wrong people.

When we choose to have less children and the churches realise this the sooner we will avoid a similar fate!

Kevin Myers (born 30 March 1947) is an Irish journalist and writer. He writes for the Irish edition of the Sunday Times, having previously been a columnist for the Irish Independent and a former contributor to The Irish Times, where he wrote the "An Irishman's Diary" opinion column several times weekly. Until 2005, he wrote for the UK Sunday Telegraph.
His articles criticize left-wing opinion and the "liberal consensus", sometimes incorporating hyperbole, sarcasm and parody. This essay appeared in The Irish Independent:

Somalia is not a humanitarian disaster; it is an evolutionary disaster. The current drought is not the worst in 50 years, as the BBC and all the aid organizations claim.
It is nothing compared to the droughts in 1960/61 or 73/74. And there are continuing droughts every 5 years or so.
It's just that there are now four times the population; having been kept alive by famine relief, supplied by aid organizations, over the past 50 years.
So, of course, the effects of any drought now, is a famine. They cannot even feed themselves in a normal rainfall year.

Worst yet, the effects of these droughts, and poor nutrition in the first 3 years of the a child's life, have a lasting effect on the development of the infant brain, so that if they survive, they will never achieve a normal IQ .
Consequently, they are selectively breeding a population who cannot be educated, let alone one that is not being educated; a recipe for disaster

We are seeing this impact now, and it can only exacerbate, to the detriment of their neighbors, and their environment as well. This scenario can only end in an even worse disaster; with even worse suffering, for those benighted people, and their descendants. Eventually, some mechanism will intervene, be it war, disease or starvation.

So what do we do? Let them starve?
What a dilemma for our Judeo/Christian/Islamic Ethos; as well as indu/Buddhist morality. And this is beginning to happen in Kenya, Ethiopia and other countries in Asia, like Pakistan. Is this the beginning of the end of civilization?

AFRICA is giving nothing to anyone outside Africa -- apart from AIDS and new diseases. Even as we see African states refusing to take action to restore something resembling civilization in Zimbabwe, the begging bowl for Ethiopia is being passed around to us out of Africa, yet again.
It is nearly 25 years since the famous Feed The World campaign began in Ethiopia, and in that time Ethiopia's population has grown from 33.5 million to 78+ million today.
So, why on earth should I do anything to encourage further catastrophic demographic growth in that country?
Where is the logic? There is none. Now they want to move to other countries to continue to breed and commit crime.

To be sure, there are two things saying that logic doesn't count. One is my conscience, and the other is the picture, yet again, of another wide-eyed child, yet again, gazing,
yet again, at the camera, which yet again, captures the tragedy of children starving.

Sorry. My conscience has toured this territory on foot and financially. Unlike most of you, I have been to Ethiopia; like most of you, I have stumped up the loot to charities to stop starvation there. The wide-eyed boy-child we saved, 20 years or so ago, is now a low IQ, AK 47-bearing moron, siring children whenever the whim takes him and blaming the world because he is uneducated, poor and left behind. There is no doubt a good argument why we should prolong this predatory and dysfunctional economic, social and sexual system but I do not know what it is. There is, on the other hand, every reason not to write a column like this.
It will win no friends and will provoke the self-righteous wrath of, well, the self-righteous hand wringing, letter writing wrathful individuals; a species which never fails to contaminate almost every debate in Irish life with its sneers and its moral superiority. It will also probably enrage some of the finest men in Irish life, like John O'Shea, of Goal; and the Finucane brothers, men whom I admire enormously.

So be it. But, please, please, you self-righteously wrathful, spare me mention of our own Irish Famine, with this or that lazy analogy. There is no comparison!
Within 20 years of the Famine, the Irish population was down by 30%. Over the equivalent period, thanks to western food, the Mercedes 10-wheel truck and the Lockheed Hercules plane, Ethiopia's population has more than doubled.

Alas, that wretched country is not alone in its madness.
Somewhere, over the rainbow, lies Somalia, another fine land of violent, AK 47-toting, khat-chewing, girl-circumcising, permanently tumescent layabouts and housing pirates of the ocean. Indeed, we now have almost an entire continent of sexually hyperactive, illiterate indigents, with tens of millions of people who only survive because of help from the outside world or allowances by the semi-communist Governments they voted for, money supplied by borrowing it from the World Bank!

This dependency has not stimulated political prudence or common sense.
Indeed, voodoo idiocy seems to be in the ascendant, with the president of South Africa being a firm believer in the efficacy of a little tap water on the post-coital penis as a sure preventative against AIDS infection. Needless to say, poverty, hunger and societal meltdown have not prevented idiotic wars involving Tigre, Uganda, Congo, Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea etcetera.

Broad brush-strokes, to be sure. But broad brush-strokes are often the way that history paints its gaudier, if more decisive, chapters.
Japan, China, Russia, Korea, Poland, Germany, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in the 20th century have endured worse broad brush-strokes than almost any part of Africa. They are now -- one way or another -- virtually all giving aid to or investing in Africa, whereas Africa, with its vast Savannahs and its lush pastures, is giving almost nothing to anyone, apart from AIDS.

Meanwhile, Africa's peoples are outstripping their resources and causing catastrophic ecological degradation.
By 2050, the population of Ethiopia will be 177 million; the equivalent of France, Germany and Benelux today, but located on the parched and increasingly Protein-free wastelands of the Great Rift Valley. So, how much sense does it make for us actively to increase the adult population of what is already a vastly over-populated, environmentally devastated and economically dependent country?

How much morality is there in saving an Ethiopian child from starvation today, for it to survive to a life of brutal circumcision, poverty, hunger, violence and sexual abuse, resulting in another half-dozen such wide-eyed children, with comparably jolly little lives ahead of them?

Of course, it might make you feel better, which is a prime reason for so much charity!

But that is not good enough.
For self-serving generosity has been one of the curses of Africa. It has sustained political systems which would otherwise have collapsed.
It prolonged the Eritrean-Ethiopian war by nearly a decade.
It is inspiring Bill Gates' programme to rid the continent of malaria, when, in the almost complete absence of personal self-discipline, that disease is one of the most efficacious forms of population-control now operating. If his programme is successful, tens of millions of children who would otherwise have died in infancy will survive to adulthood, he boasts.

Oh good: then what? I know, let them all come here (to Ireland). Germany and the rest of Europe is already inundated and there are literally millions queuing up who want a hand out, taking in refugees because you feel sorry for them will end in the demise of those countries taking part.


You will note that; No Gulf State is taking any refugees, and the head of the human rights commission is Saudi Arabian !?!

TeeJay4103
  4/12/2019 23:12 EST

BlueJeepney

Without a doubt, China plays the debt game very well. Sri Lanka, Pakistan and other African nations have found out the hard way. Control of shipping ports and airports seem to be on the favored target list.

China's Belt and road plan to re-establish the silk road also threatens to put many nations along the way into debt.

The U.S. is but one player in a complex game of thrones. Now that Venezuela's economy has collapsed under the incompetent and corrupt Maduro regime, he remains in power with support and billions in investment from China and Russia. Could the vast oil resources have anything to do with it? Meanwhile the people starve.

Malaysia's leader has also warned the Philippines about China's "loans", though it would seem their activities on the Spratly Island would have been enough of a warning to the Philippines government.
https://youtu.be/ThedGta_zr4

BlueJeepney
  4/12/2019 23:44 EST

Insite - There’s not much that can be done about it at this point so try to make the best of it, overpopulation is a taboo subject, partly because of religion and also it’s endless supply of cheap labor, most likely there will be some time of correction like a virus, or super bacteria, or war, who knows, until then we will all watch our Netflix shows and keep our heads in the sand.

surfingcebu
  4/13/2019 09:01 EST

teejay - great post ! Yes, China is to be feared. they want to destroy the west , and any other country that has something they can use . HUGE show-down coming . Lately there ghas been talk of sinking a USA aircraft carrier by China . They must be crush . I suggest they will be going after their IT infrastructure , and making it inoperable :)
But yes, China is the evil of today .

IDAHO1
  4/13/2019 09:41 EST

Of course, none of these countries have governments that are essentially a criminal enterprise.

acol
  4/13/2019 14:01 EST

Insite: I share ot your views and opinions, even if I am probably more "communist" (as our US friends like to name us when left-wing) than you. I am partly living in the RP. Almost 5 years now. I am always astonished by the number of kids with so young mother ! Abortion is not an issue if you have contraception first ! And sexual education. So: FREE contraception pills, SEXUALITY education in schools.Du30 is not making a bad job. I think he is honest. Davao city is an example of clean and safe city. But so is Puerto Princesa where I live ! These mayors should be promoted. Like Du30. Then the RP will grow. Less kids, less corruption, more education, more contraception. My 2 pesos.... :-)

darkfader24
  4/13/2019 14:51 EST

Dear acol - I completely agree with you. I am what you would call "Right Wing / Conservative". I am stunned and dismayed at how many young mothers there are raising these kids. It shows a much bigger problem than lack of use of Contraception - although they really need to be using it. It shows a complete lack of CHARACTER on the part of the men who are impregnating these women. Not only do they show a lack of respect for the women, they show NO concern for these children that will now be raised in poverty, with far fewer opportunities. The Children need a loving Father who can teach them to become good Fathers/Mothers in the Future - and good Husbands/Wives, too. They need the extra income in the household that the Father can bring. They need the security that a two parent home gives. This is what concerns me the most - along with better sex education and pre-pregnancy contraception. I do not view abortion / killing a baby - as a viable or moral form of "contraception". There is another factor. If these young girls are getting pregnant and left on their own to raise the kids - then who are the fathers? Run-around Playboys who pick up Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STIs) and could be passing them on to these girls, and possibly the babies born thru the infected birth canal? There's a series of issues here. It is no wonder so many of these "Third World Countries" cannot pull out of the endless morass of poverty. Corruption, greed, power plays, immorality, everyone taking advantage of everyone else. It happens in every Country cuz it's part of the Human Condition - but when you start off down at the bottom of the scale, you just can't pull up out of it. And, although it "Sounds" real good, Socialism does not work. There is no example - none - of a single country that is completely "Socialist" that turned out well. The latest example being the Oil Rich Venezuela where the masses are starving. Communist Russia had Bread Lines every day. Communist China had millions just above starving until they played the hypocrites and allowed Hong Kong Style Capitalist Economic structures in as an experiment - and now China lends the USA Trillions!! The USA used to ship food there to keep THEM from starving! The saying goes "Insanity can be defined by trying the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result." That's Socialism. Hordes of people are fleeing Socialist nations trying to slam their way into Capitalistic USA.

darkfader24
  4/13/2019 14:58 EST

"Demand is what rapes our planet and destroys the very environment on which we depend for life ........."


Uhhh, you're here - and you "Demand" the things of life! Is there something morally wrong with Your Demands? If you have a right to be here and demand oxygen, water, food, clothing, shelter - then why can't any one else? Are you one of the "Rapists" - since you demand these things in order to live?!? Are you going to be "The One To Make The Judgement Call" as to who gets to live, to be here? Who do you think should NOT be here in order for you to be here? If "Demand" is such an issue for you - then lead us by example and eliminate yourself. Bullets are cheap - and it would be one less judgmental person screaming about the environment being raped.

Tsmslf
  4/13/2019 18:08 EST

Please spare us your emotional comments. Once I read "rape the planet" rational discussion has been killed. Demand in the economic sense doesn't have such effects on the planet's climate. You want real climate change? Try global cooling by say 15 degrees farenheit. Let's have a Little Ice Age again and see what happens or how you like it. Cut the Gulf Stream's temperature by that amount and it is Sayonara Europe as we know it. People live in heat (Philippines anyone?) Few live in Alaska and none in Antarctica. And neither crops nor herds do well in either place unless you like polar bears or reindeer.

Try staying on topic as well.

FrederickJS
  4/13/2019 18:12 EST

What is the law in PH regarding the "deadbeat dads" who get the girls pregnant and move on?
Does the girl have any recourse for child support?
Can a girl go into a pharmacy and buy contraceptives?
So many of the pregnant girls seem to give up and burden their family with an additional baby.

redlandchuck
  4/13/2019 18:49 EST

I agree with you contraception is a better alternative but in some cases with poor people contraceptive is unavail and not affordable Be nice for government to provide for them.

redlandchuck
  4/13/2019 18:52 EST

I dont think the Government wud go against the Churk here in Philippines. Woe be the politician that fights the Church come re election time

redlandchuck
  4/13/2019 18:52 EST

I dont think the Government wud go against the Churk here in Philippines. Woe be the politician that fights the Church come re election time

BOBV
  4/13/2019 20:02 EST

Hi Frederick There is a way to obtain child support the girl has to go to the free city attorney and hope the office is diligent to file a claim, then to court she goes, that being said the ex already ran away and if luck has it there is still no way to determine his source weekly income, therefore cant get just enough to buy milk. The burden is on the girl and family if kicked out its the aunt or grandmother. Its the same as the male dogs that walk in the street no accountability sorry to say.
When it comes to contraceptives it depends what pharmacy you go into the pharmacy doesnt retain the Rx so there no record so what leaves the store is what is.. Im a Pharmacist and please anyone dont waste your time telling me otherwise. thank you.

darkfader24
  4/13/2019 20:22 EST

BOBV - I wonder if some of the problem is that to most Pinays there is no Higher Calling than being a Mother - so maybe she isn't terribly inclined to work hard at NOT getting pregnant (?).

BOBV
  4/14/2019 01:19 EST

darkfader24 I agree its not a concern til it happens... much like a thought here ,for most if they have one they duck.......

Macsporran
  4/14/2019 10:21 EST

perhaps the Philipine government needs to take a look at how Ireland has dealt with the Issue of Contraception ?
It has taken a generation but a country that is predominantly Catholic has now embraced birth control , in a generation families have gone from large to the 2,5 average (on the whole ) , my best buddy reminises about sitting on wooden crates and drinking tea out of jam jars. with his 9 siblings , he and his siblings now have the average 2 or 3 kids and they live in 2 or three bed houses or better.
On the entirety , the world needs to control its population , resources are finite

catabisis
  4/14/2019 10:51 EST

The Duterte family did not get wealthy being honest

Tsmslf
  4/14/2019 13:43 EST

Why does the Church need to change its rule? Why don't people just do it? They certainly break other Church rules without strain and, I think, US and world Catholics use contraception to a high degree. It puzzles me.

FrederickJS
  4/14/2019 14:21 EST

Agree, it is puzzling. Here in the USA the RC church is mostly ignored by people, and the Bishops don't even talk about contraception anymore. Even abortion is hardly mentioned, and pro-abortion politicians are welcomed like anyone else.

charkee
  4/14/2019 17:58 EST

I recall in the US, back in the 70s, Catholic neighbors with 10 kids. Mom decides she wants no more kids, so she won't give her husband his perks anymore..

They soon did a very uncatholic thing and divorced.

darkfader24
  4/14/2019 18:53 EST

Yes, Charkee - I had a fiancee once who was Numer One of 10 kids - she was actually #2 cuz #1 died. A lot of turmoil. The Mom looked so ragged - and 25 to 30 years older than she was. While I agree on the Church's stance regarding Abortion - I see no problem with non-life threatening measures. They say it is interfering with nature. Well, so is cutting my hair or brushing my teeth or mowing the lawn. Nature does what nature does in an efficient and machine like manner. Don't mess with Human Life - but what's wrong with making sure it doesn't start. If it's so "Godly" to have child after child, what is so Godly about children condemned to a life of poverty and empty stomachs. What is so Godly about Girls so desperate to help their families and fill their bellies that they sell their Bodies and Souls on the streets of Angeles (Angels? Right) City? I can't imagine what happens to a young girl's soul having 2,000 men drool and paw all over her in the course of 2 years - not to mention the physical damage of STIs - and any abuse that may happen in the bedrooms. It's beyond sad. I think the Church Leaders need to be asked these questions - and really ponder them.

catabisis
  4/15/2019 01:35 EST

Japanese are not communists pumping millions into our universities influencing academia

catabisis
  4/15/2019 02:12 EST

That’s right, and the Chinese business plan everywhere in China is you always accept and you always pay bribes if you want anything done. The Philippines may have a government system that is similar to the U.S., but the Philippine business plan is all Chinese. Especially when you understand that 80% of the biggest companies here are Chinese owned.

surfingcebu
  4/15/2019 09:28 EST

Cata- you may say the RP emulates China with respect to bribes . BUT I think Africa, Iran, UAE, Latin America( especially central America) and S Korea, Russia are more in tune with China this way … we live in a harsh world , indeed !
The worst mistake DU30 made was to cosy up to the loan shark china Communist party …and I like DU30 , greatly !

surfingcebu
  4/15/2019 09:35 EST

cata- you're right . The China Communist Part (CCP) is to be feared - they think long range (10-20 years out ) and are 110% lethal .Anyone who would support any ties with this nation has their head in the sand ! Lethal to democracy .
Just discovered they plan monthly 'mock attacks' on the west with Nuclear weapons . OMG - they have to be shut down . only way is to put the boot on the neck of the Chinese and squeeze their economy . Over 800,000 "Chinese students" in the west taking spots of the westerners - tell me how has this benefits the western students ? - think about it ! They send them over in high school school !

surfingcebu
  4/15/2019 09:45 EST

Acol- you make some great point. I love the RP …BUT tourism is of the wrong type . the Anti-business mindset is SO dominant , and their economic ties with China will kill their future… Many things have to change - yes even corruption. hmmm don't get me wrong I love my second home in the RP - and the above is mentioned out of caring for the kids and future of the people .

Tsmslf
  4/15/2019 10:56 EST

Catabisis, I thought RP companies had to have a majority of RP citizen ownership. If true, how can you say that Chinese own companies. I'm not making a value judgment here, just trying to be sure of the facts.

ACEPoolPlayer
  4/16/2019 18:59 EST

Tsmslf,
I'm not saying they have direct contact with the Chinese government but most of the larger businesses in the Philippines are owned by Chinese-Filipinos. Either 2nd or 3rd generation immigrants from China (mostly Fujian province).

Thoughtexperiment
  4/17/2019 03:30 EST

Speaking of the CCP..data out there suggests that from 2012 to 2017, China was at the forefront of poverty reduction, with nearly 70 million people being lifted out of poverty..so they've got that going for them.. Philippines population currently around 104million.

Tsmslf
  4/17/2019 11:36 EST

ACE
If you're right, that's devastating as to the native skill set for business and economic acumen in general. Nonetheless, it hasn't translated into much of an economic improvement for the country. As JFK said, A rising tide lifts all boats. The tide in the RP seems to be running out more than in.
Your comment is basically micro in type while I think we need macro ideas to turn the poverty tide in the people's favor. Keeping the land in the titular name of citizens only is an example I've offered before as a macro idea that stifles importing new wealth which then converts to improved economics nationally. I think the tourist program was the same thought financially. New wealth/capital is what is needed to charge the GDP so that it trickles down to the province levels.

surfingcebu
  4/17/2019 11:47 EST

TSM - change for the economic landscape has to be metered and reflected upon . Certainly , Macro changes have to be made for the benefit of the people.. What that looks liek - who knows at this point with the political swamp in Manila. The people need a fresh look at things and help. That help will never come from China as we know, I sure hope the loans from China have stopped now . DU30's huge mistake IMHO . Hurts the further kids in the country - Big Time ! China has a "M-O" of loading up countries with debt - then taking the resources as 'interest only ' payments at less than 25% market values. Stealing basically . Surprise , Surprise !

ACEPoolPlayer
  4/17/2019 13:24 EST

Tsmslf,
I lived in the Philippines for 25 years. I'm friends/aquaintences with a lot of high ranking officials. You and Surffer can do all the macro thinking you want. Unless either of you are running for president or a consultant to Malacañang it will do no good. Just enjoy the country and try not to think too hard.

ACEPoolPlayer
  4/17/2019 13:27 EST

Unless someone is elected to an 8 or 10 year term, nothing major will ever change. Every new administration changes what the previous administration has done, good or bad. That's just the way it is...

darkfader24
  4/17/2019 16:37 EST

Thought experiment ( that's a cool name by the way ) - Yes, the Chinese are doing so much better - now that they are operating their economy like total Capitalists. Mao must be rolling over in his grave! They rule like typical Commies - with an Iron Fist - but hypocritically operate their economy like the hated West. What a joke!

BeboHawks
  4/17/2019 17:07 EST

I just can't help myself. The China machine needs and must have one thing and nothing else matters. The key word is food. Its that simple. The PI can provide a massive amount of food. There are areas in China that is developing major food issues. I have lived in China many times over the last 20 years. The secret in the room is fear of not being capable of increasing food supplier to maintain a passive populace as they begine to starve. The PI provides a stop gap solution. The people of the PI is within the expansion target range of China. Bebo

darkfader24
  4/17/2019 17:10 EST

Bebo - you would think the Philippines would capitalize on providing food to China. They could help the Chinese people from starving - and also make a lot of money!

BeboHawks
  4/17/2019 17:30 EST

Good idea but who do you know that is a willing partner of China? China's political leaders fears only two things. A few hundred nukes inbound and a starving general populace. Nothing else. No one else. End of story. With respect. Bebo

BeboHawks
  4/17/2019 17:33 EST

Current temps 82 Manila. 72 Tagaytay. 73 Lipa. Life is good. Bebo

darkfader24
  4/17/2019 17:33 EST

Bebo - but if they fear a starving populace, and the RP can help their own financial condition, you would think that they would sell food to China. I don't know - but doesn't the USA send a lot of food to China? I know that we used to - even when they were really bad enemies compared to now. Well, we can't solve the either China's nor the RP's problems. That's up to them.

charkee
  4/17/2019 18:21 EST

Chinese banking is the polar opposite of modern western banking. It is based upon Alexander Hamilton's First National Bank. Ironic isn't it? A bank by the people and for the people. This banking system is why China has had unprecedented success in pulling its people out of poverty. Far more successful than FDR's New Deal.

Lincoln reestablished the national bank and took a hopelessly bankrupt nation and turned it into the world's leading industrial powerhouse in 5 years, all the while fighting the bloody Civil War.

This Chinese National Bank is the real reason why the power elites in the City of London and Wall Street are publishing endless lies and are saber rattling against China. They actually want a war to end China's National Bank.

The Chinese National Bank spells the end of imperialistic banking and it's hegemony of world power. .

The Philippines should also establish their own National Bank. But I think Duterte well knows what happened to Libya, Iraq, or any nation that drops the dollar or attempts to establish a national bank.

Before any of you attack me for this post, you must realize that the press in the west are a pack of liars. They produce whatever they can to smear Hamilton's National Bank, because it's their mortal enemy. If they don't destroy the Chinese banking system or China itself, they see their doom on the horizon.

By their fruits you shall know them. China is prospering while the US and Europe are slowing descending into the misery of Charles Dickens's London.

BeboHawks
  4/17/2019 18:38 EST

Charkee interesting views. The one issue that due to my living in China provides disagreement is that most who are living in the countryside are lacking most of that progress you deem widespread in China. Banking in China is not the norm. The absolute controls in place by the political command is actually impressive. A average production of less than 120 pounds of rice per farm family leaves little for wealth building and loan applications. I would hope that any admiration for China and the Chinese population would consider the absolute abuse of the Chinese people by its political leaders. Of course you might never hear the population point of view as to do so is death by self inflected multiple guns shots to t h e back which is later determined to be susicide. The truth is often hidden and difficult to comprehend. Bebo

Asawa
  4/17/2019 20:09 EST

Back to the origional two question:

a) Why is the RP economically poor:

1) Power dynamics (including corruption).

2) A general philosophy rooted in Fatalism - the belief that all events are predetermined and therefore inevitable (Cultural trend toward: Que sera, sera - 'whatever will be, will be'). Folks make peace and become comfortable accepting any present circumstance.

3) A cultural that typically avoids direct confrontation -- and represses concerns until they are bottled up and folks explode. (IE: Tampos, Going Buange / Berserk)

b) what can be done to cure the issues.

Very little. Change will have to come from within, and it will take generations. By my reckoning, you have to change the character and the culture of the country, and that takes several generations (14-20 years per generation).

We just have to hope that the China doesn't extend enough rope (IE: Credit) to those in power that it can legally foreclose on the entire country over a period 40-200 years.

Your ideas and solutions would work if the American Yankee spirit of "Picking yourself up by your boot straps" were pervasive. However, that is actually rare and unique across most of the world.

Instead, you have folks who are so settled in their fate that they won't walk out to shovel some gravel in the pothole they curse every day when they bounce their motor cycle over it. And, you have folks who generally avoid minor preventive maintenance because you just wait for stuff to break. (IE: Whatever will be will be. If it needed filling, someone would fill it. )


It's far more complicated than that, but that's a very simple summary of my deeper thoughts.

Asawa
  4/17/2019 20:18 EST

Let me illustrate the cultural contrast with the following story. You may have heard it before, but I think it shows a really valuable insight into "starting with the end in mind". The question here is, who is the fool?

An American investment banker was at the pier of a small coastal village in the Philippines when a small boat with just one fisherman docked. Inside the small boat were several large yellowfin tuna. The American complimented the Filipino on the quality of his fish and asked how long it took to catch them.

The Filipino replied, “Only a little while."

Perplexed, the banker asked, "Why didn’t you stay out longer and catch more fish?"

The Filipino proudly answered, "This is enough to support my family’s immediate needs. We eat well. "

The American then asked, “But, what do you do with the rest of your time?”

The Filipino fisherman said, “I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children, take siestas with my wife, Maria, stroll into the village each evening where I sip wine, and play guitar with my friends. I have a full and busy life.”

The American scoffed, “I am a Harvard MBA and could help you. You should spend more time fishing and with the proceeds, buy a bigger boat."

The Filipino fisherman asked, “But, why would I need a bigger boat? It's just me fishing”

The American enthusiastically answered, with the proceeds from the bigger boat, you could buy several boats and hire all your neighbors. Eventually you would have a fleet of fishing boats.

The perplex Filipino fisherman asked, “But, what would I do with a Fleet of boats? All of my neighbors fish and eat well. ”

The American answered with excitement, “Instead of eating your fish or selling them to a middle man, you could start selling your catch directly to the processor. Eventually, you could open your own cannery.”

Confused, the Filipino fisherman was asked, “But wait, why would I want to run a cannery?”

Lost in the moment, the MBA expounded, “Then, you would control the product, processing, and distribution. Of course, you would need to leave this small coastal fishing village and move to Manilla, then Hong Kong and eventually New York City -- where you will run your expanding enterprise.”

Starting to feel the excitement, the Filipino fisherman asked, “And, how long will this all take?”

To which the American replied, "20 years. 15 years with luck and planning.”

“But what then? What do I do at the end of this time?” asked the Filipino man.

The American laughed and said, “That’s the best part. When the time is right you would announce an IPO and sell your company stock to the public and become very rich, you would make millions!”

The fishermen (finally caught in the enthusiasm of an unexpected dream) then asked the ultimate question, “I have never even dreamed of so much money. What would I even do with Millions of dollars?”

The American said, “Then you would retire. Move to a small coastal fishing village where you would sleep late, fish a little, play with your kids, take siestas with your wife, stroll to the village in the evenings where you could sip wine and play your guitar with your friends.”

To which the Filipino smiles and said, "But, sir... this is what I already do every day. I have this now. Why would I work, so hard for all those years for what I can already to today? Perhaps you should relax with me a while. "

It makes you think. Work hard or work smart? Live to work or work to live? If you are content, what else do you need? What is the goal of work/life balance? What is really important?

Deep Thoughts,
-Asawa

surfingcebu
  4/17/2019 21:34 EST

Asawa- good post . I have also heard the theory of "8 Degrees north and south latitude" ….or at least it around 8 degrees . Around these latitude people can live outside, live off the land and the climate lends itself to a 'easy going lifestyle ' ( ie Caribbean , RP and so on ….) I forget the exact theory BUT it does have something to do with latitudes around 8 degrees north and south and cultural attitudes …..

surfingcebu
  4/17/2019 22:21 EST

Bebo - I think China's plans are to TAKE THE FOOD, from the RP ….not buy it in legal trade . China has changed its world outlook over the last 5-8 years . Its scary now !

IE . military base on the Spratly's with over 400 missiles on them and 2 full 14,000' air strips for bombers and interceptors .. Freaking scary !!!

BTW - the new Chinese interceptor is basically a clone of the F35( stolen plans?) . VERY capable Im told by our Canadian Airmen .

BlueJeepney
  4/17/2019 22:36 EST

I have a story of poverty in the Philippines, it's my wife's story, she is the middle child of 14 and her father was a farmer, he had a small plot of land in Bicol and 2 caribou, he lost it all due to a gambling habit. At age 8 my wife was sold to a family in Manila, she didn't see any of her real family for another 15 years. She would get up at 4:30 every morning to do chores and then help their children get ready for school, she would then go to school with them. After school she did chores until late at night....rinse repeat. At 15 she was raped by the father, shortly after she ran away but found out that she was pregnant, she was so scared of having a baby after what she had experienced in life she decided to get an abortion. She had some back alley abortion that caused an infection and as a result she has never been able to have children. You can probably figure out the rest of the story on your own. Strange thing is she has never said anything bad about her family or blamed her parents, she supported her mother until she died 2 years ago, she never did see her father again, he died when she was in Manila. We have shelled out a lot of money through the years to pay for school and college for nieces and nephews and payed medical bills for her siblings, my wife has worked hard for them, she survived necrotizing pancreatitis at 43 which resulted in the loss of gall bladder, spleen, half of her pancreas, she is diabetic as a result. She went back to work several months after recovery, she survived stage III colon cancer at 55 and went back to work shortly after treatment ended, and they still ask her for money just about every day.

surfingcebu
  4/17/2019 23:43 EST

Blue - touching story of hardship . Real hardship. It the west they shed tears when the subway is late and throw a fit ! Puts things in perspective for sure .

Give your wife a hug for me . Above Amazing women indeed. Got bless her please !

Earnestndeavor
  4/17/2019 23:47 EST

WOW!! What a wonderful lady Blue. Thanks so much for sharing this with us. You’re a lucky man indeed. Earnie

BlueJeepney
  4/17/2019 23:52 EST

surfingcebu - I wish I could get her to retire now but she won't do it, she won't stop working until I do, she's in a lot of pain from slinging groceries for 20 years, she's only 4' 10" and 90lbs, she was down to 70lbs when she was going through Chemo and they were going to end her treatment, I got her a medical prescription for cannabis and that helped her gain weight...survival through Doritos consumption.

Thoughtexperiment
  4/17/2019 23:58 EST

My 2 centavos. In this country, power centers around the 10+ family conglomerates. Politics and the oligarchy work in tandem, poverty is their handmaiden. Discrimination and exploitation feed into each other under capitalism. The IMF, the World Bank, Structural adjustment programmes, schemes, projects
which under the guise of developing the third world, plunder it and lock them into paralytic dependency. Having lived in Hong kong for 30 odd years, I’m no fan of big brother next door, nonetheless am awed by the velocity of autonomy and development that has been the bi-product of drastic structural/social engineering. In the Phils, the power line is the poverty line…

surfingcebu
  4/18/2019 00:10 EST

Blue ~ maybe you should retire then . Enjoy life together it’s so precious and short . Retire if at all possible.

You living in the RP now? Where did she get her treatment?

surfingcebu
  4/18/2019 00:10 EST

Blue ~ maybe you should retire then . Enjoy life together it’s so precious and short . Retire if at all possible.

You living in the RP now? Where did she get her treatment?

BeboHawks
  4/18/2019 00:15 EST

Wow!!! I seldom read long long post. Blue Aswa and others on here. Thanks for allowing me to share in such highly personal insight to your life. I and many others went dark on this forum. I was encouraged to come back and I am very happy to have returned. Thanks to all again. Bebo

darkfader24
  4/18/2019 00:59 EST

Asawa - Wow! That explains so much to me regarding my Pinay Fiancee. Her reactions / or lack there of to questions and concerns of mine are so disconcerting. I love her dearly - and not to be critical but there seems to be a huge "disconnect" - almost like I'm talking through her. She doesn't seem to get certain concepts and it has left me scratching my head. A lot of what you said really applies. She just drifts from one problem to the next without a plan or an effort to "fix things" - either with her "career" or in relationships. Seems almost unaware of what we take for granted in our "Western Thought Patterns". If this is the mindset that she was raised in I can see how these People, generally speaking, are struggling to get anywhere. It's almost like watching someone in Quicksand struggling to get out and not knowing how they got in that situation in the first place.

darkfader24
  4/18/2019 01:15 EST

BlueJeepney - Thanks for sharing that Gut Wrenching story about your wife. It brought tears to my eyes. What some children have endured in this life is truly jaw dropping. I feel so sad for her. I'll bet she is an amazing person and I'm sure that you love and admire her a lot!!

BlueJeepney
  4/18/2019 02:20 EST

Surf- she was treated here in Spokane WA, my plan was to retire at the end of this year Dec 31st and then move to the Philippines, it’s when my 401k loan will be payed, the chemo drugs her oncologist ordered weren’t covered by Tricare so I payed out of pocket for 6 months of treatment including a nurse to come out twice a week for pump hookup and removal. Here’s the cool thing, I got emotional while writing her story and talked her into retiring the end of this June, it wasn’t hard, she’s laying in bed with a heat pack on her back and salonpas plastered all over her arm and shoulder. Just going to hire a property management company and rent this place out. Bringing a shih tsu and two Siamese, time to get in gear. Oh yeah, have too sell my motorcycle too.

ACEPoolPlayer
  4/18/2019 07:04 EST

BlueJeepney,
Your wife truly is an amazing person. I hope it all works out for you and her. She certainly deserves for the best to happen in the future. Unfortunately until she finally says no to those always asking, they will never stop asking for more.

ACEPoolPlayer
  4/18/2019 07:15 EST

Asawa,
Great fisherman story. I have a extremely smart 7 year old son. I will guide him toward medicine and maybe he'll be Doctor someday. As a Doctor in the Philippines with dual citizenship he'd live a nice comfortable life. The thought frequently enters my mind when I think of retirement in the Philippines and my young son's education. We'll see how it all plays out and what he chooses to do in his life as he grows older once we move back to the Philippines.

surfingcebu
  4/18/2019 10:59 EST

Blue - Happy retirement my friend ! Get to the RP and start enjoying the good life asap ! Renting your place may be a good idea … or sell it , and invest the rest in Div bearing high quality companies (?)

Renters can really be tough on a place . I assume its a house ? a condo is easier to repair and rent though .

Great news though - she ….andn you deserve a great retirement !!
What city you planning to go to ? There are many really nice cities to retire in at the RP ! My favourite is Dumaguete area - not in the city BUT around the area like Becong , or just North in Bias and area . Valencia is Very nice too with cool nights and not too warm days .

BlueJeepney
  4/18/2019 18:46 EST

Surf- Put in my request for retirement today, Jun30th effective, faxed a request to waive military retired pay to DFAS since I bought my 20 years back towards federal retirement, so it's definitely happening, very nervous but I have a direction and feel the bad stress leaving my body already. Original plan was Subic since I was stationed there in the Navy twice, it seems to be getting expensive though, definitely need to put some mileage between us and her family, Dumaguete looks nice from the expat vlogs I've watched, we will spend some time looking around.

surfingcebu
  4/18/2019 21:10 EST

Great Blue - Great news bud ! Your with the USA military ? - How many years of pensionable service ? You should get a decent pension?
Thanks fo ryorui service BTW ( even though I'm Canadian - I know the USA protects the free world - I don kid myself .) The Canadian Military has some good guys - Fire in the belly- but under equipped.

It sounds like 20 or 25 years of service , heck that's enough !

How does waiving pay work ? that DFSA(?) thing you mentioned ….

People live really nice in the RP with 1200-1500USD per month ….anything more it gets hard to spend …unless you go crazy in the Girly bars with Bar fines every night !!HA!!! …
Yes Subic and Clarke is getting more expensive - tons of Koreans in Clarke for Obvious reasons - too much commotion for me . I like more quiet , with say a 20 minute drive to a medium size city . Altitude is your friend in the RP - makes nights cool and days not as ho as well .

Hmmm , where to drop anchor now?? . Duma is nice , BUT not in the city limits for me …Valencia, Becong, Bais, or Zambogitta are much better . only a short 'motor' ride to town for a movie or Bubble tea with the University gang ( they have 3 Universities in Duma . ) . You have to get the right fit and feel for things . Davao is a great city too …but can be sketchy for a Kano outside of the huge city limits. But one of the best cities in the RP and HUGE geographically . Some nice quiet corners in that city. BUT, its the Zambuonga , and cities in-between that are a worry. I like Bohol, and Palawan too - some great spots there!

100% know what your saying with keeping distance with your wife's family … wise move ! Im with you on that 100% . You are seen as a ATM Kano … in most settings my most family members - not all.


Its a new life, enjoy it . It will probably take you a year or 1.5 years to start to relax and realize that your a free man now. So , go easy on yourself at first. At first yoru going to feel 'shipwrecked' without the 9-5pm grind( plus 3 hours unpaid work each day ) …but believe me , you will start to enjoy it a year later and wonder why it took you so long to grab your life back .
Plenty of support and ideas here on the board - many really well versed guys and gals that know the RP well ! If you get into trouble or feel 'shipwrecked' just shout out - plenty of help here !

Enjoy the journey my friend - make it the best years ever …work at it ! - You deserved every day of happiness. You will enjoy the journey im. sure . I gather the Mrs. is excited ?

Surf .

BlueJeepney
  4/18/2019 22:26 EST

Surf- I retired with 20 years in the Navy in 1999, I'm currently a federal employee (grid operator) with 16 years service as of this June, I bought out my military time 5 years ago for about 14K to combine it to my federal retirement, giving me 36 years toward the my fed retirement, the day I retire my military retiree pay will stop but I don't lose any benefits, I keep my I.D. and medical, my VA disability isn't affected, I will still receive that monthly. It was a huge benefit for me because my high three is near 160k, it also gave me the 30 years min service to retire at minimum age (56) without a penalty and I qualify for the "benefits offset" which is meant to pay a portion up to 100 percent of the projected social security monthly payment until i turn 62. Sad thing is I was told by our HR rep that I couldn't do it, I researched one night on a back shift and figured out that they gave me false information, even today they gave me the wrong address and FAX number to make the request to stop retired pay to the dept of defense, I showed them the information I had directly from their site, It's screw ups like this that can turn into a nightmare scenario. I have a friend who retired last October and he's still not receiving pay, they're saying maybe late summer, all because of a divorce decree from a former spouse that wasn't documented correctly...fortunately he has enough savings to cover and will get back pay.

Asawa
  4/18/2019 23:26 EST

DarkFader,

There is a series of books written by anthropologists for people who travel aborad on business, for pleasure and/or to relocate. Every book is written by a different (native author), and the series is called "Cultershock".

There is a book for every country in the world (as far as I know) and it covers everything from philosophy, religion, values, customs, traditions, etc.

If you are curious to really understand more of the culture (and some of it is generalization), I recommend reading the book:

Culture Shock! Philippines: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

You can get it as an ebook for $6.99 or a used copy for $5-6.

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/0761425055/

[DESCRIPTION: ultureShock! Philippines is a survival guide for anyone living, working or wanting to discover life in the Philippines. Settling into a foreign land is never easy, but with this book you will learn to understand the importance of “amor-propio”, appreciate the Filipino ways and learn about the history and culture of this diverse country. Find out the importance of family to the Filipinos, how to communicate with the locals and learn the appropriate business etiquette. Packed with a resource guide, glossary, contact numbers, website addresses and useful advice, CultureShock! Philippines is essential for anyone wanting to fit in and enjoy life in the Philippines.]

Likewise, I recommend that you get the corresponding book for your fiance:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/0761455035/

[Description: Culture Shock! USA: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette [Discusses the American social and cultural traits that are most likely to confuse international visitors, including stereotypes, communication, food, and shopping customs, business, and other aspects of life in the United States.]

You might find it interesting to read the USA version first... to learn more about how those abroad think of folks living in the USA. Some of it almost seems silly, but some of it is incredibly useful. (People are friendly, but not your friend in the midwest... for example. People in the USA are obsessed with time and self improvement.)

The guide for the USA is often given out to Chinese, Japanese and Indian Contractors to help understand the "Crazy Americans".

The guide to the Philippines talks about Tampos as well as many other superstitions and traditions (including the insights about fatalism).

For many folks, this is required reading before working, starting businesses, or spending long periods abroad.

-Asawa

darkfader24
  4/18/2019 23:58 EST

Asawa - Thank you! That is such great advice. I look forward to reading these books. I am not an Anthropologist - but could have gone that way - as people and cultures fascinate me. I have a Great Love for Archaeology. Funny - I ended up being a Record Producer - but Psychology is at least half of what I do. There's nothing like soothing a singer in the studio who is about to go jump off the studio roof top because they are so distraught from being self-critical! My couch is a Psychiatrist's couch - and has been used that way many times!!

Morgacj2004
  4/19/2019 08:07 EST

You are certainly right about property going up. We just bought a 4 bedroom ocean front house in Argao for 8.2 million pesos. Could have bought a similar home for 1-2 million pesos less 2 years ago.

surfingcebu
  4/19/2019 11:37 EST

Morgac- I wonder why the property is going up ….the OSFW's returning home to retire , or ? Foreigners cant buy homes …so where is the hyper inflation coming from on homes ?

In Vancouver the average house is 1.8 + Million dollars , for a basic one . The locals and kids are shut out of home buying. Basically China and Korean money ….as we have no bars on foreign ownership - SITTING DUCKS , to get dirty money washed through our cities .

Tsmslf
  4/19/2019 16:42 EST

To the Moderator:

How can these posts be permitted as being responsive to the point raised about why is the RoP so poor a country? I know you are strict with political hijackings but so many of these posts are simply unrelated to the topic of this thread.

Why do you permit it?

We should all know your thinking so we all know the rules don't you think?

Asawa
  4/19/2019 18:09 EST

Tsmslf,

I suspect most reasonable people realize that a conversation involves people informally talking to exchange news and ideas.

As long as the tones remain civil, the general guidelines are followed, and each addition comment has some basis to a prior comment.. we are on solid ground. (And, there is a wide amount of digression in how things can relate... because every person has a unique way of thinking).

It's also important to be mindful that this is a private system and the moderate enjoys great discretion -- defined as the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation.

The charter of the forum also has a goal of supporting a community which promotes a sense of fellowship with others achieved by sharing common attitudes, interests and goals.

Although you may be technically correct, the moderator seems to be a kind, wise, gracious, and benevolent presence. I have observed that he only intercedes when conduct is severely or pervasively disruptive.

When disruptive behavior is severe (a single extreme incident) or pervasive (an established pattern unwelcome behavior), those are the times when the moderator is likely to intercede.

When he acts, we would also be wise to remember that he is empowered (in this private community) to act unilaterally based on his best judgment.

If the moderator is hasty or mistaken, most of us accept that there is limited harm because the Expats Exchange is not a fee-based service. There is little material harm to anyone in those cases.

Based on what I've observed, you see no action because there is no disruptive (severe or pervasive) behavior here. There is only conversation which advances the sense of community.

I'm sharing these insights because I was a moderator on a similar forum (Asawa.org) for many years, and I have great empathy for our moderator. I also appreciate that he makes the effort to explain his actions and operates with full transparency.

Kindest Regards,
-Aswa

draks
  4/19/2019 21:26 EST

If property prices are rising steeply, it's because people are prepared to pay inflated prices, and those selling looking for a big profit. Eventually the bubble will burst, and many people will be living in houses that are now worth way less than they paid for it, negative equity. Probably the bubble will burst sooner rather than later here. But if house prices keep rising steeply and quickly, then boom and bust is inevitable. Happened in the UK and USA, will happen here. All house price rises are not a natural event they are man made, caused by greed for quick easy money. Don't be too proud of how fast the value of your house is increasing, it will burst, it has to, it's not sustainable.

draks
  4/19/2019 21:26 EST

If property prices are rising steeply, it's because people are prepared to pay inflated prices, and those selling looking for a big profit. Eventually the bubble will burst, and many people will be living in houses that are now worth way less than they paid for it, negative equity. Probably the bubble will burst sooner rather than later here. But if house prices keep rising steeply and quickly, then boom and bust is inevitable. Happened in the UK and USA, will happen here. All house price rises are not a natural event they are man made, caused by greed for quick easy money. Don't be too proud of how fast the value of your house is increasing, it will burst, it has to, it's not sustainable.

surfingcebu
  4/19/2019 21:30 EST

Drake - your right housing is a commodity like anything else . Look what's happening to Australia right now ? Teetering on disaster ! Maybe some Australian can chime in to whats happening there .

In the RP , where is the money coming from , Expat husbands? or ? … wages have not increased in the RP that much - if at all .

surfingcebu
  4/19/2019 21:46 EST

tsm- I think the moderator does a great job . Its a difficult job . Some people just like to hear core facts about water temperates at X beach, or Type of fuel available in Tagbularan . Other like to get into the "Real meat" of the subjects and engage in comparatives feeling and facts and hypotheticals … all are well received from the people I have gotten feedback from. The people who don't like free speech won't like it though - 100% sure on that !
The vast majority of people here do a great job with their stories and feelings of where the RP is going - I think it ALL helps the future expat .
Just my 2 cents …. on your topic, but off the RP topic of course :)

LarryKar
  4/19/2019 22:38 EST

Draks: As to rising real-estate prices don't know how much impact it would have in the big picture but not all OFW live hand to mouth and send every peso home so Dad and Uncles can lay about drinking Red Horse. My Gal spent 12 years in Hong Kong and built our house with the proceeds. I helped finish it off but she did the heavy lifting. Her Brother who works in Canada did the same building a family house that I'm sure would hit the 2 to 3 million mark. I know of two of my Gal's friends who are nearing 50 and doing similar buying new property for their Golden Years while finishing up their tour in HK. Again I know my acquaintances may be the rare cases and certainly aren't driving the market. But.....

LarryKar
  4/19/2019 22:38 EST

Draks: As to rising real-estate prices don't know how much impact it would have in the big picture but not all OFW live hand to mouth and send every peso home so Dad and Uncles can lay about drinking Red Horse. My Gal spent 12 years in Hong Kong and built our house with the proceeds. I helped finish it off but she did the heavy lifting. Her Brother who works in Canada did the same building a family house that I'm sure would hit the 2 to 3 million mark. I know of two of my Gal's friends who are nearing 50 and doing similar buying new property for their Golden Years while finishing up their tour in HK. Again I know my acquaintances may be the rare cases and certainly aren't driving the market. But.....?

catabisis
  4/20/2019 01:18 EST

I think DU30 is a Chinese hack. He is an admitted socialist. He proudly admitted his mentor of 40 years was the founder of the Philippine Communist Party. They met when DU30 was his college student.
Du30 had a fallout with him after he took office. I view it as akin to Stalin having a fallout with Trotsky. Both are Communists. It is just that one is more radical than the other.
It is beyond me how any clear thinking Westerner can support Duterte. It is obvious he is in the back pocket of the Chinese

surfingcebu
  4/20/2019 10:58 EST

Cata - first time I heard this of DU30 ? China sympathizer will do his population harm .

mootpoint20
  4/20/2019 11:52 EST

The generalized answer to the original question is , "...Centuries of Colonialism where wealth was taken by the Spanish first, and then by America since 1899." (Freedom to explore multiple international markets may create much greater wealth.)

darkfader24
  4/20/2019 13:32 EST

Mootpoint: I find your comment interesting and would like a bit more clarity. "...Centuries of Colonialism where wealth was taken by the Spanish first, and then by America since 1899."

Shouldn't that be "......and then by America since 1899 UNTIL 1947." After all, America granted autonomy to the RP at that point. NOW, I admit I know precious little about Philippine politics, so I am asking a sincere question (I am not baiting you), but since the RP has been self-governing for approx. 72 years now, is America still responsible? After all, America was in control of the RP for 48 years. The RP has been in control for 72 years - and most of that time in a more technically advanced age. Unless somehow the USA is still involved in her governing mightily behind the scenes I don't know how the USA can still be responsible. Trump has turned the USA around in less than 2 years. Reagan had the USA do a 180 in just 3 or 4 years. How can the RP NOT do something for itself in 72 years?

acol
  4/20/2019 15:27 EST

Darkfader, I am Belgian, an ex-colonialist country mainly in Congo that we dominated for almost 1 century. I don't know of any colonialist country that has being bringing wealth to the country. Health sometimes, education sometimes, not even infrastructures but most of the wealth of rich natural resources and cheap labor force was for the colonialist, meaning no enrichment for local population except corrupt administration. That's history, helaas....

LarryKar
  4/20/2019 19:21 EST

I will be the first to admit that a certain person, who is no longer here, went way to far " left " however it is hardly fair to now have to listen to " right " propaganda. "Turned around" ? that is way premature not to mention hysterical. How about NO USA POLITICS after about 1947?

darkfader24
  4/20/2019 20:05 EST

LarryKar - HEY!! I am asking a sincere question here. Back off!! I said I didn't know about Philippine Politics. Besides, which would you say is better? Spanish Colonialism for 300 years - or American for 48 years? And did the Spanish ever spill their blood on Philippine soil IN DEFENSE of the Philippines? NO! Is there American Blood on RP soil in Defense of it? YES!! Ever hear of World War Two? Japan? MacArthur? Did Spain ever willingly give freedom / self governance to the Phils? NO!! Did America?? YES!!!

LarryKar
  4/20/2019 20:17 EST

Dark: Read what I said. Historical debates are fine. It is your interjecting today's politics in snide remarks designed to trigger others not of like mind that gall. Tired of playing your games, Sir.

acol
  4/20/2019 22:56 EST

Dark; you are right. It was a promise of McAthur for having a resistance in the Phils. Good bet !
Now , my political 2 cents: we westerners, especially US see socialism, and above all communism as devil and hell. I don't think it's the right way of thinking. And context. Cuba might be a tourist paradise (and is slowing becoming.Now, just turn to China. Communist. They are are going to eat us. So what about "governing a country according to its diversities and basics," No?

darkfader24
  4/20/2019 23:03 EST

LarryKar - Not playing games. I was asking why America might be responsible today for the RP having poverty. I don't know. I said that I don't know much about RP Politics. I also asked if America was involved behind the scenes helping to cause this poverty. I was basically asking that if America had granted the RP autonomy - then what was the USA's responsibility in the RP's poverty UNLESS She is involved behind the scenes causing trouble. That's all that I am asking - BECAUSE I DON'T KNOW AND I WANT SOMEONE'S FACTS OR OPINION! I made that perfectly clear - or at least I thought I did. Apparently not.

darkfader24
  4/20/2019 23:15 EST

Dear Mr. Kar - Excerpts from the comments that offended you:

"NOW, I admit I know precious little about Philippine politics, so I am asking a sincere question (I am not baiting you), but since the RP has been self-governing for approx. 72 years now, is America still responsible? After all, America was in control of the RP for 48 years. The RP has been in control for 72 years - and most of that time in a more technically advanced age. Unless somehow the USA is still involved in her governing mightily behind the scenes I don't know how the USA can still be responsible."

I then brought up Reagan and Trump as examples merely of how people can turn a free nation in a different direction. Hell, I could have brought up Obama, because he certainly changed America's course for 8 years! They are merely examples. How about DU30? He has certainly changed the course of the RP - in some ways for the better, if in a brutal fashion. I know that there have been a lot of bodies piling up in the streets - but as far as the street drug culture DU30 has certainly had an impact.

However, the original question was in regards to poverty (not the drug trade) - which still hasn't changed much - and I perceived a statement was made in regards to both Spain's AND America's Colonialism. I was questioning how after 72 years of lower involvement we were still responsible. Maybe you know the answer. I'm still waiting to find out. If the USA is still partially responsible - I would really like to know!!

Now, how is THAT playing a game?

mootpoint20
  4/20/2019 23:45 EST

We can quibble about 'details' but the culture of nations rising or falling is broad and powerful, taking years. We can get a reformer like Trump in America, but will his individual effort stop the moral decay, and possible civil collapse or war? I was born after '1947,' yet I was stationed at Clark Air Force Base decades afterwards, and America even had Subic Bay Naval base controlling the sea, as well. It was a mitigated form of colonialism where we dictated commerce. And free commerce is where wealth can prospers a nation.

darkfader24
  4/20/2019 23:49 EST

Dear Acol - I indeed see Socialism as a dark force. I have never seen anything good come out of true socialism. I know that Pre-Castro Cuba was a Tourist Paradise. If it is now, it is only Paradise for the tourists. Ask how the Cubans in Florida feel about Cuba under Castro. I have heard and or read many very strong statements - from the original immigrants to their now adult Children. Wow! They hate it. They feel so strongly about America as a free Republic where many of their Dreams have come true. And they grieve for their family members which they weren't able to see for decades until recently. Some they will never see because they were executed or died in prison camps in that "Tourist Paradise". I have read testimonies of those who were beaten and tortured in those camps and were later released.

Socialism didn't work in Russia. People starved. Or died in Gulags. Or worked on boring Russian Farm Collectives as just Cogs in the wheel of a big uncaring machine - with no incentives to get ahead - since the harder you worked was no more rewarded than those that put in as little effort as they could get away with. Have you ever seen the movie "The Killing Fields"? It was written by a Cambodian Medical Doctor who, as part of "The Intelligencia" was singled out by the Khmer Rouge and put into a Slave Death Camp. He escaped with his life. His wife (and children?) died in the camp from abuse and starvation. At one point he passed out while running in the dark. When he awoke at Sunlight he got up and all he saw to the Horizon was literally half a million bodies (maybe more) lying in the mud. Imagine more people than Woodstock dead in the mud lying all around you.

Socialism / Communism was responsible for over 100,000,000 (that's One Hundred Million) Deaths in the 20th Century alone. I could go on and on. If there is no excuse for Hitler (a Socialist) who was responsible for 7 to 10 million deaths in camps (plus many more due to war) - then how can we excuse the other Socialist Rulers?

They say that Madness is trying the same thing over and over without getting the result that you are after. There is no perfect system because the ones that create it are not perfect - nor is life and it's happenstances. But Socialism hasn't lifted anyone out of poverty. Capitalism, as imperfect as it is, has made more millionaires than we can count - many of them out of poverty. All of those Black Basketball, Football, and Baseball Players, Rappers, Movie Stars, Rock Stars, CEOs - most of them came out of the Ghetto.

China now has many millionaires. But when did that happen? Not under Mao - they would have been jailed and stripped of their wealth. It happened AFTER China adopted (hypocritically) the Western Capitalistic Model for it's current economy. Now you actually have Chinese FEMALE CEOs and Business owners who are millionaires. When would that have happened before 20 years ago? China's civilization stretches back Millenia. But it wasn't until the last 20 years that this has happened. What China is currently experiencing has NOTHING to do with Communism. Their leadership is Communist and it's Politics certainly are. They rule with a Militaristic Iron Fist - but they are smart - and have built up an Economic Powerhouse on the foundation of Capitalism.

surfingcebu
  4/21/2019 10:05 EST

dark, interesting thoughts . You feel RP society being ruled by socialist ideals now ?

Chinan is a "state controlled capitalist contorted economy, where not many get to participate in the wealth" .Smart ? yes . I would say more 'Cunning and theft' has led to its limited success . BUT , they are afraid of this house of cards falling in upon itself - and rightfully so . They can't feed its population, and the unrest of this multi cultural society is growing rapidly to my joy ! China has to be purged of its cruel behaviours on its own population and that of its cruel - calculating behaviour upon the Philippines and its people .

darkfader24
  4/21/2019 12:36 EST

Dear Surfingcebu - I plead my ignorance regarding the depth of politics in the RP. China I have a little bit more knowledge of because of it's huge presence in the World and it's great tie to the USA. China and America are interesting "Dancing Partners", aren't they? There they are out on the floor, holding each other close, hand in hand and smiling - and each has a knife in one hand just an inch from each other's backs. I don't know how long this relationship has been this way. I suspect mostly since Mao and the Communist takeover. I don't know anything about Chinese / USA Political Relations before Mao. I should go study it. I greatly fear China. Not the people, who I am sure are wonderful. All people are. It's the hostile and aggressive Government that tries to get away with as much as it can. Case in point, what they are doing in your area near the RP. In regards to the RP - I LOVE The Filipino People. I think that they are wonderful and I have quite a few Filipino friends here in California. I work with a number of them in my recording studio and they are crazy talented. Amazing people. I only wish them the best - and I hope and Pray that the relationship between the RP and the USA gets stronger and more friendly by the day. I hope that whoever is President of the USA takes very seriously the "Allie" relationship and backs the RP with the Full Strength and Might of the US Armed Forces. China needs to know that they are not to Bully the RP - and that we will NOT stand for it. China may be very strong - but we are no Chumps either!

acol
  4/21/2019 14:15 EST

Dear Darkfader.

As I was saying in my post, socialism must be contextualised. Looking only at the bad examples/failures can not give a true image of what socialism can be. By curiosity, I have had a look at the "world happiness index" ranking https://worldhappiness.report/ed/2019/changing-world-happiness/
And without much a surprize, the first 7 countries are all western european. As a convinced european, I can tell that I know a little bit of their political history and all 7 have for a rather long period been governed by socialists resulting in social measures like: jobless allowance, affordable health systems, good education level, etc.I know it can be difficult to understand for a "capitalist" american, but socialism - even with some deviations sometimes - can work.
This said, I have seen the "killing fields" movie. Of course a very dark aspect of communism. I have also seen a documentary movie on Nankin massacre by the japanese. And japanese are not communist...... We might also talk about the use of defoliating agents during Vietnam war, but, enough..... What I want to explain is that a lot of Americans still consider socialism as hell without really knowing the benefits. For me Bernie Sanders committed a big mistake by presenting himself as a socialist (although by european standards, he is not really).. Americans will never support a socialist candidate because it is not in their concepts. This said bak to the RP. I don't know what can be done. Economic growth is not so bad, but inequality is huge, very huge. Growth is benefiting to a few only. Solutions? Infrastructure building: roads, water supply, electricity, etc. As long as it is with local manpower, this can boost economy. Public debt also, I know but what is the ratio debt/ GDP of the US?

acol
  4/21/2019 14:17 EST

Dear Darkfader.

As I was saying in my post, socialism must be contextualised. Looking only at the bad examples/failures can not give a true image of what socialism can be. By curiosity, I have had a look at the "world happiness index" ranking https://worldhappiness.report/ed/2019/changing-world-happiness/
And without much a surprize, the first 7 countries are all western european. As a convinced european, I can tell that I know a little bit of their political history and all 7 have for a rather long period been governed by socialists resulting in social measures like: jobless allowance, affordable health systems, good education level, etc.I know it can be difficult to understand for a "capitalist" american, but socialism - even with some deviations sometimes - can work.
This said, I have seen the "killing fields" movie. Of course a very dark aspect of communism. I have also seen a documentary movie on Nankin massacre by the japanese. And japanese are not communist...... We might also talk about the use of defoliating agents during Vietnam war, but, enough..... What I want to explain is that a lot of Americans still consider socialism as hell without really knowing the benefits. For me Bernie Sanders committed a big mistake by presenting himself as a socialist (although by european standards, he is not really).. Americans will never support a socialist candidate because it is not in their concepts. This said bak to the RP. I don't know what can be done. Economic growth is not so bad, but inequality is huge, very huge. Growth is benefiting to a few only. Solutions? Infrastructure building: roads, water supply, electricity, etc. As long as it is with local manpower, this can boost economy. Public debt also, I know but what is the ratio debt/ GDP of the US?

BeboHawks
  4/21/2019 15:03 EST

Agent Orange. Killing Fields. Socialism. Humn! Some lived it face to face some read books and some listens to what others say. I personally have never observed Socialism working anywhere I have been. All political systems are based on controlling the masses. Some attempt to use methods of control and command that don't actually kill all opposition but very few. There are no simply answers to very complicated multi faceted difficult questions. But I enjoy those that express their answers and opinions even the ones that don't really have a clue. Bebo

Tsmslf
  4/21/2019 15:03 EST

The US has a free healthcare system - hospitals take all comers; a good educational system as much of the world sends students here - see the Chinese especially - and unemployment insurance as well. The point you miss is that, in neither place, does any government own the means of production which is the essence of socialism and disaster. See the Venezuelan oil companies.

The US has a capitalist economy and some socialized systems - Obamacare and medicare e.g. - but has stopped short of socializing the economy which is what leads to economic disaster every time and in every place. It's what the Chinese changed after Mao that worked to boom their economy.

darkfader24
  4/21/2019 15:15 EST

Dear Acol - thank you for your response. Unfortunately, I must rush off to work but before I do I want to slightly address your last question regarding "the ratio debt/ GDP of the US?" This is exactly what I am speaking of. I don't have the time at the moment to fully address this but a huge part of our debt issues come from Socialistic Programs of huge give-aways. I initially became aware of this as a 10 year old White kid living in an all Black Ghetto in South Philadelphia. Our friend "Woody" was talking to my Step-Dad and pointed to a pregnant 15 year old girl (this was in 1966). He said "See her, Doc? She's gonna have her third child. The Government keeps paying' her to have 'em!" I didn't understand what that meant at the time. We were just starting into President Johnson's "Great Society" - a Democrat Party program that was intended to help so many in poverty. 50 Billion Dollars and 5o plus years later we STILL have the Ghettos as much as ever. In my neighborhood at that time they had built several large Towers of Apartments. They were called "The Projects". Not fancy, but clean and solid with nice elevators. I remember going into one with some friends within 6 months of them being occupied and they were utterly trashed!! The rubber seals on the elevator doors had been slashed and ripped by knives, there was graffiti and stains all over the walls, tiles in the linoleum floors had been pulled up, and it smelled of urine. A friend of mine years later told me "That which is easily obtained is lightly esteemed." Those people didn't have to work for the apartments so they had no pride, no emotional investment in them. They didn't care. So you also see in Europe, where so much has been granted to those who seek asylum from the Middle East. They are given protection from persecution and their thanks? There are sections of London, Paris, Brussels that the Police refuse to go into for fear for their lives. They are repudiated and spit upon. Meantime, many of these same protected people are given a place to rest their heads and food to fill their bellies. Much of the Socialism is paid for by Governments who have extra money due to the USA taking on the lion share of NATO costs and protection for Western Europe. I was, of course, dismayed at Obama removing many of the missiles from Europe that were pointed squarely at Russia - as a psychological deterrent - just as reminder to go no further. I have no problem with the USA being Allies to any and every Euro Nation. We who love freedom must stand shoulder to shoulder against those who have a history of aggression. America has, rightly or wrongly, given an astronomical amount of money to many Countries on this Planet for various reasons. While it might be kind hearted, politically motivated, or truly in America's interests, I think much of it is due to a huge amount of "Lobbying" in Washington - and has, sadly, depleted us of our resources - and made us deeply in Debt. It's just horrible. I didn't vote for all these give-aways. I work between 70 and 100 hours a week just to keep up with the immense tax burden I have as a private businessman. I never take a vacation. I take off 3 to 5 days a year - Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day - and sometimes Easter (I am working today), and sometimes the 4th of July (I worked it last year). I will say this much - under the hated President Trump, both Black and Hispanic Unemployment is at it's lowest recorded level in American history. Truth.

Earnestndeavor
  4/21/2019 15:25 EST

Tsmslf - In my opinion you have captured the essence of the capitalist v. Socialist debate and explained it as well as can be done. With all due respect to those who believe otherwise I personally know of no nation which has thrived and continues to thrive under a socialist system.

darkfader24
  4/21/2019 15:28 EST

Dear Tsmslf - Exactly right! My personal Obamacare story: I was forced onto it, on penalty of fines, in 2015. Remember Mr. Obama saying "You can keep your Doctor."? Not true. I kept my Doctor, alright - but my Doc did not accept one penny of O-Care. Nope, I paid for every single visit, and every Lab Test, and everything else. Yes, I did. I am a Diabetic. My Medications? Same thing. I was paying for O-care but it did not pay one single penny of my expensive medications or insulin. Insulin alone was $800 every 7 weeks. In March of 2016 I went into the hospital for 10 days due to the fact that I had been off of my insulin for several months. I couldn't afford it! My bill was close to $90,000. While in the hospital my wife met with our accountant who told us that the Government had miscalculated our O-Care payments and I owed them $19,700 from 2015 - on top of what I had already paid - for not one penny of help!!! I could not pay the IRS so they made it into 7 long years of $264 per month just to pay back for 2015. I am still paying for it. I am still paying for nothing!! This is Socialism - the high cost of Socialism!! This is also the Government intervening into the healthcare of private citizens' lives. This is the tragedy of the long. slow slide of America -- into the toilet.

mootpoint20
  4/21/2019 19:07 EST

The corruption of the central banking system was first spotted by a German intellectual named Martin Luther who successively convinced the Christian German Nobility that Jakob Fugger, an international banker, should be kicked out of Germany. Why? He was lending to both sides of their German Civil War, and profitting no matter who won battles. Luther, in his letter to the Christian German Nobility, declared he didn't know where the 'true value' of loan-interest came from that created inflation. In the Bible it is called 'usuary'. It has no substance in the market place. The Germans kicked the banker, Fugger, out and the Civil war soon ended. Luther then became the Father of German Nationalism. Jakob Fugger was also responsible for lending money to the Vatican to build and decorate the Sistine Chapel that bankrupted it, and forced the Pope to sell 'indulgences' to pay off the banker Fugger. ( Nothing is produced from the machinations of a banking system except 'indebted capitol' that really doesn't exist in the market place. So, today, we produce more paper money and the banking system has grown since Luther's time. This is why the Philippines is so poor.)

bbazor
  4/21/2019 19:08 EST

DarkFader: That is a very sad story. It is unbelievable how a politician can be so blinded by his own policies that he totally screws up a major bill. I don't usually get involved in politics, but I feel sorry for you and many others that were screwed by bad policies and laws (especially Obama care - what a disaster). I was lucky and never had to sign up for it. I had insurance through my job up until mid 2014 when i moved here. Luckily, there is an overseas exemption. Your synopsis of welfare and public housing, and having multiple babies by single mothers has always bothered me. Hang in there. You will be here before you know it.

darkfader24
  4/21/2019 19:14 EST

Mootpoint - Thanks so much for this information! That was absolutely fascinating. I guess we should call you "Professor MP" from now on! 2 Thumbs Up! :-)

darkfader24
  4/21/2019 19:23 EST

bbazor- Thank you, Brother. What is REALLY interesting is that neither Congress nor Mr. O have to deal with O-Care, even though they voted for it. They have their own specially funded High Level Insurance. As George Orwell's Ruling Class in "Animal Farm" said "Yes, All of us are equal - BUT Some of Us are MORE EQUAL Than Others!". Other cases in point - Bernie Sanders who decries the greed of the wealthy but it was recently discovered that he has hardly shared anything with charity - despite being a Multi-Millionaire, Flying in Private Jets, and having 3 or 4 very nice large houses. Let's talk about those Very Large Carbon Footprints. But "Some of us are More Equal than others!". Al Gore - same thing. AOC? She NOW lives in a Very Nice Condo in NYC with an Infinity Pool and flies the very airplanes that she says the rest of us have to give up - for her "New Green Deal". Oh, but please remember - and don't question - that "Some of us are MORE EQUAL than others!"

bbazor
  4/21/2019 19:30 EST

DarkFader: Yes, I know about all those stories. Hypocrites.

surfingcebu
  4/21/2019 22:46 EST

acol- all throughout Europe the Yellow vest movement and riots are taking hold at unprecedented speed .France, Germany and so on . Greece banking system is testing on collapse, Italy will do the rest of Europe in , if no Turkey .
The Swiss were right to keep their own currency and keep out of the EU .
hmm those Yellow Jackets down look too Jovial to me !? The movement is growing . Its civil unrest to the max ! Socialism is working . hmmmm could prove it by me ! Europe is testing on the Abyss . I hope the RP remains a republic strong and proud ! Socialism would crush the RP in my opinion !

surfingcebu
  4/21/2019 23:00 EST

Dark , I agree the USA has to move closer to the RP now , Canada must too ! We are working on getting rid of our PM ( October election) DU30 hates our PM ….. Don't think he will get in again . I hope the next Canadian PM takes a trip to see DU 30 asap after the election ! Many Canadians make their home in the RP . yep , I love the RP people too - great country and people ! ( mostly !)

BlueJeepney
  4/21/2019 23:21 EST

You all are loony tunes, seriously, you ran Standup out of town for his left leaning politics...but after a few subtle jabs here and there you've gone full on fascist.

dcasanares
  4/21/2019 23:44 EST

So Palawan is not a good place to live if you need constant reliable power.

Earnestndeavor
  4/21/2019 23:54 EST

Blue- to borrow from Our former President “ there you go again “
Come on, give it a break. This is a very interesting and informative discussion that may not rest well with you but obviously is interesting to others. Start a discussion about something else and perhaps others will participate and end this discussion but please quit whining every time someone says something you don’t like.

BlueJeepney
  4/22/2019 00:36 EST

Earnest- you’re a hypocrite, enjoy the demise of your orange orangutan cult leader, your on the wrong side of history, peace out simpleton.

darkfader24
  4/22/2019 00:56 EST

BlueJeepney - Sticks N Stones, Love. You say "Peace Out" - but you have no peace - and you spread it not.

Earnestndeavor
  4/22/2019 01:02 EST

Blue- I was hoping this would not be necessary because engaging in a discussion with you is like dueling with an unarmed man. Once again before you display your ignorance, let folks have a discussion without your whining.

agypsyquokka
  4/22/2019 03:53 EST

Thanks ACOL - interesting reading and fully agree with your views. There are too many Americans, at at least one Canadian on this site that are brainwashed into believing that socialism is all BAD. Not all Americans have that view, but many. There is no political system that is perfect but each has many positive aspects. Many in the USA poke fingers at Canada and some of Europe due to some of their socialism type programmes. They work and people continue to vote for them in most cases. Much of the world sits back and laughs at the USA about their lack of affordable healthcare - extremely high education costs etc etc . The USA has very high debt for many years = as someone wrote last week, about China not being at war for decades but builds infrastructure - high speed rail etc etc . The USA only sees itself involved in war after war for most of the past 50 years and their country crumbling infrastructure is the price they pay. Aid to other countries should not be tagged - only if you agree to USA thinking , OR we sent in US troops. They have been doing it for decades. MAYBE a few of the Americans and the Canadian here need to take of the blinders and forget their life of "brain washing" and look at how the world works through un-bias eyes. They constantly push their points with Doomsday about China etc. Philippines is a great place to live and retire and it cannot change to suit everyone - scare mongering is NOT the answer. Just my point of view. NOW we need to get back to the subject at hand "Why is the Philippines poor and what can be done"

darkfader24
  4/22/2019 04:18 EST

Dear agypsyquokka -

I am in total agreement with you - about America always being at war somewhere around the World - while our infrastructure crumbles. It's ridiculous. I am a 100% Red White n Blue Patriot and honor our Military - but we seem to feel the necessity to try to fix everyone's problems. And many times those problems are unfixable. Ever since WW II we just got into the habit of intervening all the time. Sometimes it has been necessary - but it's like a "Savior Complex" - and we have too many of our own problems at home. Our issues are complex because we are such a huge melting pot - so many ethnicities in huge numbers - spread across millions of square miles. In regards to our healthcare - yes - way too expensive. Of course, having the best machinery standing by at all times - is very expensive. I used to work at a hospital and have seen a little bit of what it costs - plus my Step-Dad was a Pathologist and Chief of Staff at another hospital for forever. I will say this - interestingly enough - many of Canada's heavyweights - Politicians and Stars - actually go to the USA when they have important medical issues and surgeries. Michael Bubble brought his child here for surgery. So have some politicians. IF Canada's healthcare system is "All That" - why do they run to the system that the World laughs at?

agypsyquokka
  4/22/2019 04:32 EST

Thanks Darkfader for a positive posting. You mentioned some politicians and stars go to USA for treatment = probably not about costs - but maybe so they can be somewhat anonymous about their health issues , away from media OR that particular medical specialist is based in USA - good reasons. You also wrote - "Our issues are complex because we are such a huge melting pot - so many ethnicity in huge numbers - spread across millions of square miles. " True but the same can definitely said about China, India and definitely Australia. Have a fun day.

darkfader24
  4/22/2019 05:38 EST

Dear agypsyquokka - I knew about Bubble and the Politicians BY seeing it in the Media - so, no, that wasn't it. It was because of the level of intense care that was needed. In regards to China - go there - you will mostly see Chinese - a Billion or 2. Not in America - it's mostly??? Anglos, Hispanics, Blacks, Asians, Native Americans (not too many of those except in certain places - I know - I lived with them in Gallup, NM). I myself am Half Mexican Half Anglo. India - mostly Indians - Hundreds of millions of them. Australia may have quite a diverse group like America - but nowhere near the number. Some of my closest friends from America, who are quite wealthy, have been trying to get into Australia for several years with great difficulty. Their daughter is married to an Ozzy and my friends want to retire there to be with the Grandkids. It is way more stringent and difficult to get in there than it is here - not that it is easy here - but way more difficult there. They have told me the stringent demands. The Ozzies aren't messing around - even though it's much more socialist there. There was a famous Folk Singer from the 1960s named Barry McGuire (The Musical "Hair" "Eve of Destruction", etc) who I have been working with for 41 years. He married a gal from New Zealand, took his savings and built a nice house there. The compassionate Socialist Country of New Zealand booted him out of the country. He basically lost most of his savings - having to sell his house for pennies on the dollar because they gave him just a few months to get out. Why did that compassionate socialist country give Mr. McGuire the boot? Because he was an American and wasn't part of the system. He told them "Don't worry about it. I have my own health insurance!" They said "We don't accept your health insurance. We have our own Medical System and you haven't participated in our tax system all these many years - so, you need to leave!" He came back here to live in California - almost broke - after he retired!! And the World condemns America for not wanting to just give it all away. Why not go hammer on New Zealand, Australia, or any other number of Countries? Because they're not the Big Dog! It's human nature to want to pull down whoever you're jealous of, or whoever is the Big Dog. Others may be just as guilty or more so - of certain things but we don't pay attention to them. Instead America is spit at and on. Of course, when there's major trouble in the World - an Earthquake, a Tsunami, Kim Jong Un launching Rockets, whatever, who you gonna call? Ghostbusters. And we know who that is....

BeboHawks
  4/22/2019 08:30 EST

Manila high temp today 94. Tagaytay 84. Forum temp 101. Life is good. Bebo

surfingcebu
  4/22/2019 11:56 EST

Dark. most of these politicians and Flake leftie drama students / actors will go where they 'think' they best treatment is .Most work out of the USA anyway - sorry to send you our worst ! :) . The USA has some great treatments - no doubt ! , so does Canada . the difference is more people have access to the great treatments regimes in Canada . Mass immigration under Justin - our PM- ( some say our first female prime minister) …is putting our health system under real stress . we can't cure the worlds medical tourists that come to canada ( China,Iran, India ) get their treatment, then scoot back to their own country before the bill is generated . Case in point, China sends over 100's to BC ever month ( state sponsored ) to get medical treatment while on a 'tourist visa ' or student visa - , then they come home to China .

In the RP , I have always experience great treatment for small ailments , However I hear from friends it is hit and miss ….although cheap .

agypsyquokka
  4/22/2019 12:07 EST

Surfing - not sure that you can say that medical in Philippines is cheap. Maybe in some hospitals. I was in Cebu doctors for 7 weeks in 2013 and the billing came to almost 1.5 million, and the health insurer decided to pay nothing of that amount. Correction to your post - You said Justin is the first female PM of Canada - NO Kim Campbell was the first. Smile

surfingcebu
  4/22/2019 12:17 EST

agy - your correct ! yes with Phil-health I hear once. your a Kano they pay very little . Not fair if true !You paid the premium .

OK- Justin is the first male PM, that calls himself a feminist' and rides on every Gay/LGBTQRFP float - parade , as humanly possible .

Am I right now with the above ? :)

agypsyquokka
  4/22/2019 12:52 EST

Surfing - I was in hospital again in 2016 and Phil Health payed 30% of the billing + gave me an "Age Discount" on many of the charges, including the various doctors fees. So they paid actually 51% of my billing. I have no complaints about that. Kim Campbell was Canada's 1st female prime minister in 1993. Smile

Tsmslf
  4/22/2019 13:19 EST

Dear Unprononounceable name: If the USA is so bad, why does much of the world try so hard to come here, including many, if not most, Filipinos?

I believe that we should return our military home from round the world, close the border to ALL immigration until we digest, assimilate or deport those non-citizens here now, stop all foreign aid and, if you have earthquake or tsunami damage, fix it yourself. And, if you love the Russians or te Chinese so much, let them take over your country.

That way, folks like you won't have to be worried about the US hegemony. Your migrant friends can move to some other place, maybe like the Vatican after it takes down its wall.

You all never seem to like that approach just as the sanctuary city/state types in the US don't want Trump to send illegals to their backyards.

BeboHawks
  4/22/2019 13:47 EST

Tsmfls you and Surfing are hereby appointed Co Mayor of this forum. No pay little if any respect but the joy of just telling like it is. O yes and you two have to pay me $3.00 per year as a Mayoral Tax. I will use the tax to off set the whisky that's required to help understand and then to help forget the many who post on here with zero ability to have a clue about what they are talking about. Please forward tax to Tagaytay Police Center in care of Bebo Hawks. Thanks and as always love and respect to all. Bebo

surfingcebu
  4/22/2019 14:38 EST

Bebo- what stops you from telling it like it is ? Fear? Mangina? What could it be ? Political pressure?

BTW , no whisky for you. You’re in Rum country. Support the local economy. ;)

BeboHawks
  4/22/2019 15:40 EST

Surf I am in transition to becoming a tree hugging Pacific non violent rum drinking free spirit. F IT. I am now a believer. Too much IQ and face to face experience and knowledge no longer matters. I will now remain with the men with the gear in the rear. No more at the point of the spear for me. Hell I'm loving this side of the prize. No risk here. Peace out brother. Love one another. Bebo PS. You might want to order a bunch more body bags and toe tags.

BeboHawks
  4/22/2019 15:43 EST

Hey Mayor Surfing you sent my $3.00 yet. Pay up. Bebo

LarryKar
  4/22/2019 19:34 EST

Surf: Like agypsyquokka I was in the hospital about a year ago. PhilHealth pays set amounts by what your Doctor put down as your admitting diagnostic cause. These are published on their web site. They do not have a separate " Kano Rate Chart". I was also given, totally without me asking, a senior discount on many hospital items. Bottom line for 3 days, in a private room, very nice staff, and clean up to date equipment, I paid out of pocket less then what the co-pay would have been been for 5 minutes in the ER back in the USA. I was very pleased.

darkfader24
  4/22/2019 19:46 EST

LarryKar - That is awesome. From what I can tell, hospital / medical costs are much, much more reasonable for decent care in the RP compared to the USA. My fiancee got smacked by a car and to have an MRI and other ER care. The total bill was $560 USD. No way in the USA - that would have been 10 times that.

Tsmslf
  4/22/2019 21:17 EST

The answer to your point on the costs of medical care is obvious. Labor costs more in the USA and hospitals are both labor AND capital intensive. BUT in the USA, you can obtain world-class care in many place and their is a 911 type infrastructure to get you there. I was in our local hospital a couple of years ago for stroke tests/observation. Into the ER Friday afternoon, out Sunday after lunch. The bill? $50,000!!!!! BUT fully paid for by Medicare and my AARP supplemental insurance. Cost me zero. Lots of good nursing care, plenty of doctors on call, equipment everywhere and it's an unknown hospital in Arcadia CA not a Beverly Hills type place at all. That costs but it's worth it our way so I can promote it today to/for you all.

darkfader24
  4/22/2019 21:22 EST

Yep - I worked for 5 years in the Equipment area of an Arizona Hospital back in the mid 1970s. We had to have the latest, bestest gear at all times tuned up and ready to go for Nuclear Meds, ER, OR, Peds, OB, X-Ray, MRI - on and on. Just having that gear sitting there - parked and ready to go - whether in use or not at any given time - raised the cost of the Hosptial incredibly. That's the way it is if we expect to be fixed ASAP in the case of an emergency.

LarryKar
  4/22/2019 22:14 EST

Tsmslf: Of course you feel good and not knocking that at all but you didn't see the real cost. In spite of all that fancy equipment and 911 etc the USA only manages to be in the middle of the World Wide Mortality Tables. But not complaining I'm part of the scam too. Once ran a business for a Doctor who paid me twice the going rate. Made no secret that he " had to get rid of some of his income" for tax reasons. It was a fun ride.
Google " Mortality Rates by Sovereign Nations" . Out of 260+ the USA is around 104.

mootpoint20
  4/22/2019 22:38 EST

You know, I have to agree! Nobody can really pronounce that guy's name.

surfingcebu
  4/22/2019 22:49 EST

Larry - the rates are interesting. Hmm does Phil-health pay for everything that a Pinoy would get covered ? I was told 'NO' , and certain illnesses are excluded . Thats what I meant by the "kano" rate and treatment menu's .

Tsmslf
  4/22/2019 23:20 EST

Plus, Darkfader, high paid techs had to be on site to operate all that tech equipment. Not cheap.

Tsmslf
  4/22/2019 23:20 EST

Plus, Darkfader, high paid techs had to be on site to operate all that tech equipment. Not cheap.

Tsmslf
  4/22/2019 23:23 EST

Does that include our military deaths? Most other countries don't have that. And we have 40,000 auto deaths a year and most countries don't have the same mileage or cars. I don't think it's poor medical care but I don't know those stats at all. Why do you think we're in the middle?

darkfader24
  4/22/2019 23:38 EST

Surfing - Do you know which "Diseases are excluded"?

surfingcebu
  4/23/2019 00:05 EST

Dark , I heard major desieasses and procedures are excluded - hope this is NOT true . Race based coverage is outright dangerous !!!

Is there a two their health care program at Phil- Health . Heard there was !?

Any truth to it ? …something to do with A and B cover but not C cover for expats ?

agypsyquokka
  4/23/2019 03:20 EST

Hi Tsmsif - you were questioning the World wide Mortality rates. IF you had read it you would know that the basis of the rate is Infant Mortality Rate, and YES the USA is the pis. You crowing about how good the USA healthcare is and how much the equipment costs. Tell that to the unemployed or some ethnic groupings who get turned away when they cannot show a means to pay. Very different story .
Smile

agypsyquokka
  4/23/2019 03:30 EST

Darkfader - You want to know what is covered by Phil health and what is not - check out their website. It is accurate. There is no two scale coverage, although under the new Universal Health system being implemented, "some" procedures are free to citizens. Especially those poor and with no income. Foreigners who have paid the premiums are covered as before but now includes topics like diabetes treatments completely free plus others. Premiums for Foreign residents are 17,000 php a year, but if you have a SRRVisa it is only 15,000 php.

Thoughtexperiment
  4/23/2019 04:10 EST

Why is the Philippines poor? – too much wealth in the hands of too few.
What can be done? – Tax the rich more, empower the poor. Make housing a right not a privilege. Come down hard on corruption…real hard.

bbazor
  4/23/2019 07:05 EST

agypsyquokka: Hospitals (private or public) cannot turn away anyone seeking emergency care whether they have insurance or not in the USA. Public hospitals cannot turn away anyone seeking care (includes non-emergency) whether they have insurance or not.I had some friends that never paid a penny for healthcare. They were uninsured.

agypsyquokka
  4/23/2019 10:27 EST

BBazor - Possibly true as to how things should work, but in practice??? I know 2 people, US citizens who were asked to show ability to pay hospital costs, after they could not provide a valid Credit Card - One of those people had earlier been in a minor car accident - ambulance called and the medic asked about how payment would be made. Not a satisfactory answer and the ambulance left the scene. It was maybe an hour later when that person was able to get to the nearest hospital, to be refused again. MAYBE the law says it doesnot happen, BUT

Tsmslf
  4/23/2019 13:16 EST

Those are perfectly good socialist answers to the issue posed but historically useless as solutions as demonstrated wherever tried.

Show me one place where such nostrums worked.

Its basic error is the thought that the pie is fixed in size and that government, the always benign government, should simply redistribute the pie.

The capital solution is to expand the pie. That works wherever tried.

Tsmslf
  4/23/2019 15:23 EST

Frankly, I do not believe that people were turned away by an ER for minor treatment unless treatment was with a bandaid or that kind of minor.

If they lived, they should discuss it with an attorney.

darkfader24
  4/23/2019 15:43 EST

Dear agypsyquokka - I am sure there are great difficulties and maybe "injustices" - as there are everywhere in life. Life is never always "fair", and never will be. Those innocent people worshipping peacefully in Sri Lanka - and now their blood is blown all over the pews and walls - that wasn't fair. I will say this much - on March 16th, 2016 I had a terrible diabetic attack - I literally froze stiff as a board - and was transported to Fresno Community Care Center in California - a "Teaching Hospital - huge Class 1 Emergency Hospital - Helipad on the roof and people from LA and San Francisco are flown in - that's how good it is. The care that I got there was jaw dropping. I cannot sing the praises of the entire staff enough - from the Highest Physician to the most Humble nurse assistant and janitor. The hospital is located in the rough part of town. Lots of homeless, alcoholics, drug addicts. They do not turn away a single person at all. They are oriented that way - and i have heard that California doesn't allow turning away anyway. I laid on a gurney in the hallway of the ER for 3 days because the hospital was 100% full at all times. Every night they went into "Lock Down" mode with Police at the doors because the hospital was filled to overflowing. My family couldn't get in to visit me after 7 PM because of "Lock Down". However, I loved the experience. I saw indigent and screwed up people curse, attempt to bite, punch the Nurses, and even be handcuffed to their gurneys by Sheriffs - they were so hyped on drugs. 100% of the time the Nurses were SO COMPASSIONATE it literally brought me to tears!! They always were soft spoken and had a calming affect on these patients who could not pay a dime - and had ZERO appreciation for the fact that their lives were being saved. I saw a Martial Arts expert so hyped on drugs that 5 Huge California Sheriffs had to pin him to his gurney while they handcuffed his arms and legs to the gurney. The head Nurse was a Gorgeous Blond Lady around 27 years old. She was about 3 or 4 months pregnant. They asked her to administer a shot of something to calm him down - but he was screaming endless F-Bombs at her and was flailing around. I was right near this action on my gurney. I watched and listened in amazement as she very softly spoke to him for around 25 minutes and got him to settle down. "Sir, I will respect your rights - and only administer this to you with your consent. I am here to help you." This kind of talk. He eventually gave her his consent - she gave him the shot - and he calmed down. The Sheriffs then wheeled him to a room. Notice that I didn't get a room - the out of control maniac did. I don't care - I am making a point that the Evil American Medical System, at least what my small observance was, is truly amazing. I am in tears right now as I type this 3 years later. After my 10 day stay of the most incredible care, I was asked by their "Complaint Department" what my assessment of my care was. Well, I just gushed on and on about their incredible staff. She was astounded. She said that all they ever got was negative comments. Well, I never saw anything but the best care given to everybody. I guess we are just a bunch of spoiled and thankless brats who have nothing better to do than complain. For my part, I think these people are Saints!

Vivnay
  4/23/2019 19:15 EST

Think not, Venezuela or Stalinist Russia. Think Sweden and France, where socialist ideals co exist with capitalism. Granted no system is perfect but issues faced in above mentioned countries pale in comparison to what the Philippines is up against. Expat pontificating aside, I think the majority of Filipinos would lean toward social democracy if that meant tangible change in the lives of their future generations.

bbazor
  4/23/2019 19:59 EST

agypsyquokka: I am not sure about an ambulance. I was referring to hospitals. In practice, that is how it works. They face still penalties if they do not follow the law (very stiff). In practice, most do follow the law. As I said, I knew several people that never paid for healthcare (in practice).

BeboHawks
  4/23/2019 21:00 EST

Social Democracy. Sort of a direct conflict of ideals. But let me hear more of the potential of Socialism Democracy. Bebo

surfingcebu
  4/23/2019 23:42 EST

vivnay- Denmark, Sweden and Norway have all moved away from Socialism . They know it does not work !

LarryKar
  4/23/2019 23:52 EST

So many voices crying in the wilderness. We are foreigners our help is not wanted. This is a country where Vice Ganda is idolized. Try being critical of him that will get you deported let alone suggesting corrective action for the government.

mootpoint20
  4/24/2019 00:53 EST

To no one in particular: Duterte has just threatened Canada that felt like dumping electronic 'garbage' on the shores of the Philippines. This is the privilege and remnant of 'colonialism'. It is abusive and typical of Western traditions.

surfingcebu
  4/24/2019 00:59 EST

Canada had a contract with the RP - Approved by Government to ship garbage to disposal to the RP . NOW , DU-30 takes exception to this contract . hmmmmm smells. like China to me - think about it !

This could end bad !
IF Canada is pushed too far , consequences will result and the RP will be on the short end, of the China stick , I fear .

Morgacj2004
  4/24/2019 01:11 EST

Unless the Philippines is going to establish an industry of recycling other countries garbage they should stay out of it. The PI has enough of their own trash to deal with and unfortunately they are doing a poor job.

acol
  4/24/2019 15:40 EST

"Well, well, well, boys it seems it's going in all directions here" (Mechanical orange)

BUT, I noticed with a lot of satisfaction that there are no more disputes , just exchanges of views.

So 2-cents pieces from a west european (Belgium)

1. Can we compare all the time economics of RP with US, Canada, Australia ? It doesn't make sense. The RP has been a colony for more than 600 years and is now POLITICALLY independent which doesn't mean they are independent ECONOMICALLY. They have rather poor natural resources and demography is really an issue "when the free contraceptive pills ?" This should be one part of the solution.

2. Corruption: how might evaluate it economically ? Who has never been bribed here, honestly? Just imagine in higher levels.....War on corruption is a priority not war on drugs.

3. Socialism, what is this?
I like very much history, including politics. It all started from strike movements in several countries, if I remember well. Workers then decided to form the first trade unions of the industrial area. Trade unions were already existing centuries ago. And, yes, they were already "communists" (original term is coming from "commune" just like a barangay or a city).. Don't forget US, Canada or even Australia were not independent countries. Socialist idea during industrial period did not come from Russia. Maybe from Jaurès , who was killed for this. Then came Lenin and soviet revolution in Russia. And they made of Marx' ideas "communism".......

4. USSR
Except that they included "socialism" in their name and propaganda. At that time, USA was not so much interested anymore into Europe. They participated late in WWI, but suffered like all of us. USSR was then a very important player.

5 WWII
And then arrived the devil "Adolf". WWII. Alliance first between Germany and Russia, then, of course they fight for the same fields.

6. McArthur
Even if US always made it, their timing rarely perfect, to be honest. Normandy was tremendous and in the Bulge fight (it's in my country and I know winters there : the guys were still in summer equipment... Really, I I admire them. ) Back to RP: at that time some pinoy groups were fighting for getting independence. Then arrives the Japanese invasion. Bataan. US army as to frlow away but McArthur makes the genius deal: if pinoy resistance groups (for independence of a RP), you will get it ( And he made it.

6. About medical costs
I have the chance to be covered at 85%. The other day, I went to consult a neurologist (I have neuropathy and psoriasas: if you some tips). She gave me 15 minutes and the bill was only 150 pesos. Incredible ! In Belgium I pay 4.000 pesos at least for that

7. I hope we all here like the Philippines and the pinoys. And pinays ! says wy gf... :-)

acol
  4/24/2019 16:13 EST

To Beo

Mccarthist ? I am joking :-)
Of course some european countries have changed their government. It has not to mean they are changed social policies. Unchanged in these countries otherwise they are dead a next elections. The dual "republicans-democrats use in the us can not make you understand how it works here. But if you want to see how worst it can be : look at the Knesset It's a puzzle ! Most european countries have now limited to a minimum parliamentary representation... LOL

Morgacj2004
  5/1/2019 14:28 EST

My wife worked for years in the medical field in the US and I can tell you that the large hospitals she worked in accepted anyone irregardless of their ability to pay. The homeless and drug users treated the hospitals as a hotel room and place to crash. They would call 911 for a free ride to the hospital and stay as long as they could often times making up perceived illness and testing positive for drugs. Their bills would often be 6 or even 7 figures s depending on how long they were there.

darkfader24
  5/1/2019 14:42 EST

Morgac - Typical of those "Entitled Ones" who feel that society "owes them something". So the hospitals get filled up - and people who REALLY NEED the medical help cannot get in! I live in Central California. I am a LEGAL MEXICAN AMERICAN. These DAMN Illegals have come into our local small towns and used up all of the resources to help their own needs - and 2 or 3 small hospitals have had to close their doors for good - due to being "USED UP!" Now, those communities have to suffer. But NO! Our DAMN LIBERAL Governor Gavin Newsom has sworn to make all of California just like the city he was mayor of - San Francisco - where you need a phone App to steer you away from the areas that are flooded with Human Feces, Urine, and dirty drug needles. Talk about CHOLERA!! He is proud of his accomplishments! This is why I am getting the hell out of this once gorgeous state and going to the RP ASAP!! I have talked with many local Hispanics - and they are almost Militant in their anger AGAINST the Illegals from down south, Seriously!!! It's like having two lines to get into a Restaurant. One line The LEGALS have to wait and pay. The other line the ILLEGALS get in quickly and Free!! It is BS.

darkfader24
  5/1/2019 14:42 EST

Morgac - Typical of those "Entitled Ones" who feel that society "owes them something". So the hospitals get filled up - and people who REALLY NEED the medical help cannot get in! I live in Central California. I am a LEGAL MEXICAN AMERICAN. These DAMN Illegals have come into our local small towns and used up all of the resources to help their own needs - and 2 or 3 small hospitals have had to close their doors for good - due to being "USED UP!" Now, those communities have to suffer. But NO! Our DAMN LIBERAL Governor Gavin Newsom has sworn to make all of California just like the city he was mayor of - San Francisco - where you need a phone App to steer you away from the areas that are flooded with Human Feces, Urine, and dirty drug needles. Talk about CHOLERA!! He is proud of his accomplishments! This is why I am getting the hell out of this once gorgeous state and going to the RP ASAP!! I have talked with many local Hispanics - and they are almost Militant in their anger AGAINST the Illegals from down south, Seriously!!! It's like having two lines to get into a Restaurant. One line The LEGALS have to wait and pay. The other line the ILLEGALS get in quickly and Free!! It is BS.

IDAHO1
  5/2/2019 07:19 EST

Darkfader -
For years, I've tried to make the point that some of the persons most victimized by illegal immigration were those Americans who were here legally.
They are looked at with suspicion when they apply for a job or anything else, just because of their name.
It is good to hear that within that community there are the beginnings of a larger scale pushback.
The limits of what the system can do are already at their limit.

IDAHO1
  5/2/2019 07:19 EST

Darkfader -
For years, I've tried to make the point that some of the persons most victimized by illegal immigration were those Americans who were here legally.
They are looked at with suspicion when they apply for a job or anything else, just because of their name.
It is good to hear that within that community there are the beginnings of a larger scale pushback.
The limits of what the system can do are already at their limit.

darkfader24
  5/2/2019 07:39 EST

Dear Idaho - Thank you for your response. Truthfully, this resentment among the Hispanic-Americans has been building for many years - ever since this whole illegal immigration thing became big during the Reagan Era. My Best friend grew up a very poor Mexican-American and was very, very liberal. He and I have been best friends since 1970, and he was the best man at my wedding in 1974. But we totally disagreed on politics because I was very conservative - and again, he was very liberal. We have always loved each other deeply. Discussing politics, though, was always a quiet argument. We respected each other 100%. Well. he got into law enforcement and went very high in the ranks - really high - but i cannot discuss particulars. He is now so hard core right that I cannot believe it. Why? Because he saw all the abuse, dishonesty and hypocrisy going on due to Lib policies. And it made him smoking mad. He eventually did a 180. When honest people are confronted with the truth they drop Liberalism. I have seen it many times. It just takes a shocking situation or something to happen to them.

surfingcebu
  5/2/2019 09:15 EST

Dark- a very good post. It wasn't until my time in Canadian 'National Security' and being stationed over seas did I see how the left worked . They robbed from the poor , took away their rights and made the cost of living go SO high for people they could not eat and buy simple medication. Socialism is dead , a failed experiment. Denmark, Sweden and many other Nordic countries are making a hard right turn . I used to be a lefty while in University and a decade after, because that was what was expended and taught- you believed , or failed the courses! ….until I started to witness the stark hypocrisy of it all ( Clinton foundation withholding billions from Haiti and the like …) time and time again .
I say people are entitled to see the world as they see fit . however I always say , if a person is a lefty , they have not studied OR seen the world extensively to judge , or simply stubborn to open their eyes .
I truly hope the RP remains right of centre . Socialism would crush this country teetering on upheaval , always .

In the RP always have the funds for a plane ticket out of there. Things can change quick in a 3rd world country such as the RP, my second home.

acol
  5/2/2019 14:44 EST

To all: Always so funny to read your (by the way, very appreciated comments). on politics.)We europeans have some very different concepts about liberals, conservatists, socialists and so on. Really so different. So, when Bernie Sanders is describing himself as "socialist", it makes me laugh. But now, we are on the Philippines forum, right , so the subject should be the RP. I am wondering about what D30 has brought for the country. He is honest, I think. He made of Davao a very clean and safe city. Can he make it for the whole country? It will all depend on his influence on local authorithies. Puerto Princesa where we are living is very clean and safe. Old ladies brushing the streets all day under the sun, so my GF always (or almost always) give them some food. I love the Philippines and inhabitants... A1s simple as that :-)

Earnestndeavor
  5/2/2019 17:02 EST

Acol- while I understand and appreciate the thrust of your comment I must point out that many of us are making decisions partially based on political issues in our home country. Healthcare and pensions are a major concern to most of us. Political decisions made in our home countries often affect healthcare and pensions. With this in mind it is easy to see how the discussion often drifts to politics.

As far as discussions about our hosts politics I think it wise to not opine. While your comments were quite flattering it invites others who disagree to engage in less flattering opinions. Disparaging comments about Philippine politics, people, culture and many others can easily lead to blacklisting. It is the number 1 reason for blacklisting. Jmho. Respectfully Earnie

darkfader24
  5/2/2019 17:44 EST

Dear Earnest - I agree. We should always be respectful of our "Host Country". But if people want to comment on their Home Countries I don't think there should be a problem - as long as it doesn't drag the RP into the discussion. Most of our home countries are probably in some sort of upheaval. But a look at human history going back to Hammurabi and earlier shows that there has always been lots of political turmoil. Unfortunately, it is part of our Human Condition. Some want to dominate and will use any tactic within their power to crush others. Most are born with the desire for FREEDOM screaming in their hearts! And so it goes.....

mootpoint20
  5/3/2019 12:34 EST

"...Hammurabi..." ?

Morgacj2004
  5/3/2019 18:12 EST

Excellent post Dark Fader. I am in line a lot with the Libertarians and that is there viewpoint. Take care of your own country first before meddling in others affairs. We cannot save everyone from themselves. Our infrastructure is crumbling along with a whole host of other issues. I really got pissed when Obama was trying to interfere with Duterte. People in glass houses should not throw stones.

Morgacj2004
  5/3/2019 18:19 EST

Give it a rest Blue Jeepney. SUG caused his own demise due to his behavior. Simply because someone has a different political slant than yours does not mean they are a fascist. That is an awful strong term to label anyone on this forum whom you have never met in person.

Morgacj2004
  5/3/2019 18:44 EST

Are you for real catabisis. Duterte is no more a socialist or communist than I am. He is too involved with the Chinese, blame that on Obama who basically did nothing to further our relationship with the PI while in office.

mootpoint20
  5/4/2019 00:16 EST

I must be slow I just realized SUG had been 'demised'. No one told me...and why should they? His politics mattered little, he seemed neurotic, self-centered, provocative, and one of those professional victims. He needed help. To paraphrase Shakespeare, "What's in a name? An 'SUG' by any other will smell, as well."

gelynch52ph
  5/4/2019 07:59 EST

Demand in the economic sense has EVERYTHING to do with climate change which IS a "rape" of the planet. When you create more of a demand for manufactured products, you are burning more and more fossil fuel in order to produce and market those products. THAT is the driving cause of global warming/climate change. No reputable scientist thinks the world is going to cool dramatically any time soon. What scientists DO say is that a disruption of the Gulf Stream caused by global warming mat very well cause a localized ice age in parts of norther Europe and that region of the world.

To answer the OP...the reasons why The Philippines is so poor are many and mostly related to over population, lack of education and the fact that possibly the only politicians in the country that are not criminals are named DU30 and Pacquiao. The Catholic church and its destructive rules on contraception and abortion is also a major factor in the poor quality of life in the country. It also doesn't help when there is a population inflated with an overwhelming sense of Pinoy Pride when they have absolutely NOTHING to be proud of except a huge number of hookers, maids and truck drivers working both in the country and as OFWs.

Robertdav298
  5/4/2019 09:46 EST

GEL.......I agree with your assessment in part but you offer NO explanation of "how the RP could be fixed".........what if you were D30 for a year......what would you do?

Robertdav298
  5/4/2019 09:54 EST

MOOT....have you noticed the tone of the forum has changed immensely since the exit of SUG?

gelynch52ph
  5/4/2019 10:04 EST

That guy not only was rather opinionated and argumentative, but he gave bad info a lot of the time. Unfortunately he couched is "info" in terms that made a lot of people actually believe what he said.

Tsmslf
  5/4/2019 10:11 EST

That post is the usual anti-Catholic tripe. If Pinoy men took their responsibilities to heart and did not desert Pinays with their illegitimate children, a lot of the hookers and maid problem would disappear. That is also Catholic (and all other religions') position.

In addition, it is counter to another topic - respecting the host country - when it declares there is NOTHING for Pinoys to be proud of.

As for the ancient overpopulation theory, that's a rehash of the long discredited Malthusian economic models which economists disdain. It is reminiscent of the "peak oil" theory of US politicos -G. Brown & B.Obama e.g. - destroyed by application of that dumb female in AK suggestion when said: Drill Baby, Drill.

There are obvious reasons why capitalism is unsuccessful in the RP and corrupt politicians is, indeed, one of them. The RP rich don't want foreign investment as they don't want competition or the plebes to be more successful. Keeping them on the plantation maintains them in the elite class and why commit economic suicide for the benefit of the masses? Thus they support Pinoy ownership quotas in foreign companies, no foreigner may own the land on which his factory sits and more. You will never become 1st world that way. No first world country has those self-defeating laws. Mexico tried it as to beachfront land some years ago and gave up when resorts suddenly stopped being built. It never fully recovered either as investors are suspicious of that mentality. Me too as I coin a phrase.
The only thing that will lift the RP out of its present place, is unabashed capitalism, not the narrow elitist hold of today.

gelynch52ph
  5/4/2019 10:14 EST

I don't think it CAN be fixed until the 1987 Constitution is changed and implementing language inserted that will enforce mandatory schooling and the anti political dynasty provisions.

The other thing that needs to occur is to remove tax free status from all organized religions and disband the Catholic Bishops lobby.

I suppose if I were DU30 I would call a Constitutional Convention or whatever that mechanism is called in RP.

surfingcebu
  5/4/2019 10:23 EST

tsm- I sort of get your point and half agree . Pinoy company rules should loosen…a bit . Yes , currently it serves the majority Chinoy's who own the business in. However a "BIG NO" on allowing residential and some other types for foreign ownership . Were you advocating this ? It would leave the locals out in the cold . Much like Vancouver with the Dirty Korean, Chinese , and Iranian money that boiled in here ( and many other cities - where by an average house in Vancouver is now 1.8 -4 Million, as apossed to 380K -450 K , where it should be , considering a naturalized growth of 3-5% per year . Sure owning a couple houses I won the 'house lottery - however I think of the kids and the next generation of "outcast ' Canadians ' in their own country !

Earnestndeavor
  5/4/2019 13:27 EST

GEL- you are a real special guy inflated with an overwhelming sense of elitism and snobbery. You apparently are a person of privilege with no regard for hardworking maids and truck drivers. Your disdain for ofws is appalling. These are folks who make tremendous sacrifices so their families back home can have a better life. My hat is off to all the hard working Pinoys who toil day in and day out to provide for their families.

I will end my comments by saying I’m happy that you have decided to never visit the Philippines again. I believe that to be a smart choice.

Respectfully, Earnie

Morgacj2004
  5/4/2019 13:40 EST

While I agree with some of what you said gelynch52ph I disagree with your statement that Filipinos have nothing to be proud of except a " huge number of hookers, maids and truck drivers working both in the country and as OFWs." This is really insulting. I have toured and live in the Philippines part time and have encountered their warm hospitality, friendliness and sunny disposition despite whatever hardship they are encountering. The Philippines has some great natural resources, monuments and tourism is increasing. Yes it is a developing country with a lot of problems and yes the Catholic church needs to get on board with some real change. I am a Catholic and struggle with the churches stance on birth control, divorce and other issues.

Morgacj2004
  5/4/2019 13:45 EST

Thank you Earnestndeavor. You said it better than I in answering Gel's post. My wife of 13+ years worked for 5 years in Taiwan as an OFW. 6 days a week with a vacation of 2 weeks every 2 years. Very hard worker. I have met other OFWs. who also work hard, mainly in the hospitality and medical fields. His comment regarding OFW's was insulting.

Tsmslf
  5/4/2019 13:48 EST

That narrow thinking was once prevalent in the US when the Japanese were going to buy up all the land. They did buy a lot which brought back gold into the US which was a good thing. And they wanted "trophy" property which they got; my old country club (Riviera in the L.A. area) is an example. They still own it and do a good job managing it too.
Canada is a big place and, if the Asians are somewhat overrepresented in Vancouver, they'll be underrepresented in Quebec which, like Montreal, is overrun with Frogs as I recall. Such thinking is not smart frankly and never works well in the longer term. It is, at heart, racist or ethnic-based fear of the "other" or both.

If my property is truly mine, I should be able to sell it to whomever I wish unless there's some national security issue involved which is clearly not the case in Canada or the Phils. And neither country is running out of land for new construction. What's the beef then? It's those people with "dirty" money - your adjective not mine - and thus fear or dislike of those with that "dirty" lucre which, apparently, you and those like you don't have or don't have enough of.

That's at least bad economics. As for other judgments, I'll leave that to others but it is a weight on RP growth in my view and an unnecessary one just like some RP person must own half of my new company or I can't start my new business in Cebu. Ok then, I'll start it in the USA and the RP can continue to pay its people peanuts, let them live without running or hot water, sewer systems and on and on. We expats refer to it as "infrastructure" but, really, it's modern and civilized living.

The more I've thought about this subject, the more I believe it will never be solved by the current crop of politicos, academics and, frankly, citizens. It's too sweet a deal for that elite class who control the plantation and its serfs aka the RP.

And that's good for us older expat types who can live well here on relatively little to us and have the pick of the female litter to boot. Local lads need not apply.

Morgacj2004
  5/4/2019 13:54 EST

" And that's good for us older expat types who can live well here on relatively little to us and have the pick of the female litter to boot. Local lads need not apply." You are certainly right about that!!!

Tsmslf
  5/4/2019 17:48 EST

In my own humble style, it's a habit. Thanks for noticing Morgacj2004.

seernai
  5/4/2019 18:34 EST

The Philippines has plenty to be proud of who do you think runs the. National Health Service in the uk ? Filipino Nurses !! And also Nursing Home carers , in order to do those jobs they have to Go to University and pass a Board exam and also in the uk.

gelynch52ph
  5/4/2019 19:17 EST

surfing...when you talk about Africa, which of the 54 countries in Africa fit your model?

FYI, South Korea is NOTHING like Iran, China, The Philippines or Russia. They are more like America but efficient. I lived there for 7 years and would be retired in rural S. Korea if I could afford it.

mootpoint20
  5/4/2019 21:15 EST

It's wonderful how advance one country 'appears to be' when someone else is militarily protecting your country from sudden annililation. S. Korea had a free economic ride from U.S. for decades. The complexity of RP economy also stems from our Cold War alliance. Cheap trade with Asian countries did not exist. Cambodia, Vietnam, China, and N. Korea could not have their ships docking or planes landing. Products had to be purchased from Europe or America. FREE TRADE DID NOT EXIST FOR RP.

acol
  5/4/2019 21:48 EST

Mootpoint: with all respect, chinese products are invading the RP now, no?

BeboHawks
  5/4/2019 22:33 EST

The Philippine people may not have gold bars hidden away but to say negatively that they are poor in every way is a really big ignorance of deprived wannabes and people so socially lacking that no matter the truth they could never comprehend. The Philippine people have values and historically amazing highly developed principles. We could all learn something from them individually or collectively. Love of life, family, friends and a highly dedicated work ethic is values most on here that would insult and dishonor them never knew or have lost those valuable principles somewhere traveling down their own life's path. I am here to help and will volunteer anywhere and everywhere I can to accomplish what I can with the time I have left. One other detail for those that have never learned from history. The USA is the only deturent to having China and North Keroa own the Philippines. The Chinese 100 year plan includes dominating the Philippines within the next 10 years. Basic and simplistic food production found in the Philippines is the issue. Knock it all you wish to rant and rave but there is only one world power that could and would stop China and all others in their tracts if required. So all you anti tree hugging socialist that don't have a clue and believe domination of the world by a desperate and violent China is not possible just post up and spew out your poo poo. I look forward to the debate. Bebo

surfingcebu
  5/4/2019 22:49 EST

gelynch- Africa ? frame it up . What about Africa ?
S. Korea is a mess economically . HENCE , hordes of them hitting the shores of Europe and N. America . Live there at your own peril . W/O the USA supporting every move - they are a wash-out!

Tsmslf
  5/4/2019 23:07 EST

Even assuming you're right, the shame is that those ladies had to go 15,000 miles to demonstrate their skills as their home country lacks the ability to use their talents. Kind of makes your point pointless I would suggest.

Earnestndeavor
  5/5/2019 00:44 EST

Self, I think these professionals were trained to work abroad. Some time ago it became apparent that many developed nations did not have trained personnel available to care for their aging populations. Filipinos were sought after due to their work ethic and integrity. Philippines trained many to fill that need. Same is true of many other fields. This overseas employment has been beneficial to both Philippines and countries offering employment.

agypsyquokka
  5/5/2019 04:45 EST

Beebo - you wrote "So all you anti tree hugging socialist that don't have a clue and believe domination" AND WHAT makes you think you know any more than others on this forum, that you obviously consider idiots because they do not agree with your "theory". WHERE did you get that 100 year plan from about China??? [possibly correct but why do you think you know? Why are you always defending the USA, no matter what it does - saying the USA will help / stop China or others from takeover of other countries. The USA has helped a "few" countries, but almost always the bottom line in about oil, resources or business contracts - not about the kind hearted USA that you portray. Why dont you come and live in the Philippines and stop praising the warmongering USA all the time. Philippines are a great place to retire and smell the roses.

agypsyquokka
  5/5/2019 05:13 EST

Hi Morgac - great post and reply to gelynch, about Hookers, maids and truck drivers . I agree fully with what you wrote. Re: Catholic Church, it needs to get behind real change in Philippines and look at Filipinos of all status and not just those with bulging pockets of cash.

surfingcebu
  5/5/2019 10:04 EST

gypsy- I get your point totally , and agree somewhat . But who are you going to uphold and hold back tyranny such as China, Iran, Russia and such ? This REAL Gypsy, you can't depend on France and Belgium, Germany, Sweden Netherlands , others, to protect your way of life and freedom- even living in the RP . Lets face the fact , IF the USA did not play a anti-communist , anti-tyranny role and and anti-socialist role in the world , you would be living in Red China with 400++ Million face recognition cameras bearing down on you and MORE in the RP! Surely , you cant disagree with this ? The RP would be swollen up by China . Like the USA or not - they are the savours of the RP . No one else has any interest nor power to keep China within its own borders . USA perfect ? Gosh no!, by no means ….BUT its the best chance the RP has to move forward in democracy , The UN just said recently that the 'RP and China have to work things out about the RP lands being occupied ' . The UN is useless …. as is the EU in protecting the RP ! Imagine the power balance difference at the table between the RP and China over Spratly Islands and the scoubough shoal ?? Laughable . The Red China machine are laughing !

agypsyquokka
  5/5/2019 10:34 EST

WOW surfing - I can agree partially with what you wrote. But much of it is just "scare tactics" that we should all fear China. i lived there for over 5 years in early 2000's and saw nothing much to fear , as portrayed. Your calling China - Red China seems you are in some type of time warp still. I do not doubt that many countries will need to juggle themselves and attempt to take over others as populations grow and arable land and water becomes scarce. Not sure Philippines is in such dire straits being islands where as China [as you say} could just build a road or rail link to many countries for necessities in SE Asia. Whatever happens in the future, neither you nor I can change that - sit back and enjoy the great nation of Philippines now . He he he Smile

surfingcebu
  5/5/2019 10:42 EST

gypsy - I guess I dealt with China on a different level as you . My last posting was with Canada's central intelligence agency . enough said . THEY , consider them selves as Red China , not me , and yes , they still cal it the "Communist peoples army " .

BeboHawks
  5/5/2019 10:51 EST

Surfingcebu you are missing the most important point. Some have lived it and many have just read about it. You have a difficult task to talk reaility with someone that has a very limited knowledge base and literally no first hand experience. BTW you and I might have been posted nearby once or twice. Tagaytay is a real HOOT. Bebo

mootpoint20
  5/5/2019 12:44 EST

“Remember the Maine!” Does anyone? The Maine was a battleship harbored in Havana in 1898 that exploded, possibly by radicals. Immediately, with the help of William Randolph Hearst, a newspaper publisher who invented that slogan advocating retaliation. We declared war and conquered Cuba, and then the Philippines. When asked why we decided to invade the Philippines, five thousand miles away, President McKinley dumbfounded declared “...to Christianize it.”, even though Filipinos had been worshipping Christ for several hundred years. I was taught in High School that this was a case of 'Yellow Journalism' by the Media. I was attending Cardinal Spellman High School at the time, not some Marxist indoctination camp. Thankfully, a century later, we can safely say we no longer suffer this type of manipulation. We don't have a Media inciting hatred for countries like Russia, or our elected leaders. We don't have to worry about opportunists like McKinley claiming noble ideals for conquest, domination, and theft. And, lastly, we don't have to worry about being sucked into another war by elements that profit at everybody else's expense.

Kansasman
  5/5/2019 13:57 EST

Not sure who you are directing your derogatory remarks to about the USA but I am from here and we have the same problems as does any other country, including your own I'm sure. Please don't generalize and stereotype an entire nation from what you hear on the news. I believe the people of countries are well intentioned but the "leaders" are in it for themselves just like everywhere else. I am hoping to fall in love with the Philippines, it's people, it's beauty and I want to be a part of that and I know there will be issues but I promise to stop and think and realize I'm not in Kansas anymore, for better or worse.

Tsmslf
  5/5/2019 15:44 EST

Actually, I'm close to remembering as a senior citizen. Accordingly, I must correct Mootpoint's statement that the US conquered the Philippines. That is false.

We won the war with Spain and the Phils became a protectorate under the 1898 peace treaty that ended the Spanish-American war. Then, in 1946(I think), the Phils voted for independence, probably the worst choice they could have made in my personal opinion.
Just think if the Phils and we could simply come and go whenever we chose, no dumbass visas, SSRVs, 13As or whatever either way. And not having to rely on one airline for the only non-stop to the islands. Mindanao would be free from those rebels, airconditioning and wifi everywhere with 50 million Pinays readily accessible. Heavenly!

mootpoint20
  5/5/2019 23:27 EST

I don't think we ever attacked Spain, but I was in Barcelona, once.

"Have you ever been to Spain?"

darkfader24
  5/6/2019 01:31 EST

No - "But I've been to Barcelona"!

Haha - two years ago I produced some radio Spots for 3 Dog - and got free front row seats to a concert. They were beyond fantastic! What a treat!

bbazor
  5/6/2019 02:36 EST

Wow. Those guys are still around. Joy to the World...

mattinnorfolk
  5/6/2019 09:40 EST

Bebo, Tell me more about your new life in Taygaytay and how it is going so far?

Tsmslf
  5/6/2019 10:35 EST

Nobody said we attacked Spain. We beat them in Cuba. If you don't believe me, asl Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders. We got the Phils by the treaty just like we got the US West by treaty and purchase with Mexico - $15 million in gold methinks.

Tsmslf
  5/6/2019 10:35 EST

Nobody said we attacked Spain. We beat them in Cuba. If you don't believe me, asl Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders. We got the Phils by the treaty just like we got the US West by treaty and purchase with Mexico - $15 million in gold methinks.

Tsmslf
  5/6/2019 10:36 EST

Nobody said we attacked Spain. We beat them in Cuba. If you don't believe me, asl Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders. We got the Phils by the treaty just like we got the US West by treaty and purchase with Mexico - $15 million in gold methinks.

acol
  5/6/2019 12:06 EST

Yes tsmslf, it was a promise of general Mc Arthur for having Filipino resistants to fight against the japanese occupation army. They did it well and gained their independance.

mootpoint20
  5/6/2019 12:07 EST

THREE DOG NIGHT...……Wow,I was wondering where that song came from. Thanks for filling me in. As I age I forget a lot of important stuff.

acol
  5/6/2019 13:58 EST

I made some simplistic research on the origins of Spanish - USA war. Wikipedia seems rather simplistic. But intervention in a colony revolution is not quite new for the US. No judgment there, just a fact. What will happen with Venezuela? Have they mass destruction weapons? LOL

Tsmslf
  5/6/2019 16:47 EST

I remember because as an old man, WWII was vivid for me then a teenager. I actually heard the Pearl Harbor attack announcement on my radio that drizzly, Sunday afternoon in NYC. I was 11 years old and recall Bataan Death March from pix in the papers and movie newsreels. Japan owes McArthur a lot too as his ability to run Japan postwar was largely based on his running the Phils for the years he was stationed there.

Earnestndeavor
  5/6/2019 18:14 EST

The issue is not what will happen in Venezuela, but what is happening now in Venezuela. People are starving, no power, no medical care, journalist being jailed and worse, citizens being murdered in the streets. Where is the U.S.? Standing by at the border to bring in humanitarian aid.

No judgment here, just facts.

LarryKar
  5/6/2019 19:20 EST

dark and moot: 3 Dog Night wow that took me way back. Had to be 1969 driving through the hippie neighborhood in Belleville, Illinois near St. Louis. Old movie theatre, up on the marque " Tonight Only 3 Dog Night". Asked my GF if she wanted to but she said " no never heard of them let's go to McDonald's." A few months later they hit the radio and I realized what a bad decision that was. A lifetime later I sat next to Chuck Negron at a casino bar but he was rather arrogant and would not talk to anyone.

darkfader24
  5/6/2019 22:47 EST

LarryKar - Negron was just in town and a co-worker ran his stage monitor sound. He said that he was nice enough to work with - but that doesn't mean a lot. I didn't see the show but my friend said that he still had "Pipes". If you can - I highly recommend seeing them now - assuming that they are as good as 2 years ago. There are 2 original members - the guitarist and someone else (?) - so are they a Glorified Cover Band? Dunno - but they were absolutely fantastic. They had an older Gentleman with really long Silver Hair. What Pipes!! He was amazong. He had written a song regarding Orphaned Children in Ukraine or somewhere that they sang "Accapella" - vocals only.They closed out the show with it. Moved me to tears. You could hear a pin drop in this huge outdoor audience.

catabisis
  5/7/2019 06:13 EST

I don’t know about smelling roses, but the Philippines is a nice place to call home for a while.

catabisis
  5/7/2019 06:19 EST

I think it is wrong-headed to allow foreigners to own land. If it happened the Chinese would own the whole country more now than ever and the prices of land would skyrocket

Tsmslf
  5/7/2019 10:03 EST

Catabisis, is your belief a universal law of economics such as supply and demand or a political belief you hold?
Notice that such belief is and has been the law for decades and brought no benefit to the RP economy.
People, even Chinese people, buy land to improve it by residential or commercial investment. They rarely buy land to just look at. Investment and new wealth from China or anyplace are exactly the medicine the RP needs to move its economy and improve the economy. And even the Chinese will not buy all the land. Such never happens.
The no land to foreigners is a stupid, emotional rule that has negative economic results. It hasn't helped the RP much that one can see.

acol
  5/7/2019 12:01 EST

Tsmslf: So you were 11 at the moment of Pearl Harbour? It must have been incredible news. My father had just its military duty (3 years then!) in 1940 when he was called back for fighting the germans. He was wounded very quickly and german doctors saved his life. To come back to this post main theme, what can be done for the RP? Living here already and trying at the best to buy local. Open markets, sari-sari, fishermen. Also, I stopped discussing the price for a tricycle trip. If the driver is honest - and here in provincial Puerto Princesa, most are - he will ask me 60 PHP and I will give 80. Be sure next time he will see me with a big smile. I don't see any other way we can intervene in RP economy.

Kansasman
  5/7/2019 17:19 EST

Why are you asking where the US is? I think it's terrible about Venezuela but we have our own problems right now that are dragging our country down with people that think Socialism is "good". I wish the US, and Nato/UN, could and would help everybody they can but this world needs more than money and dead young American soldiers to fix it. Evil is everywhere unfortunately.

Tsmslf
  5/7/2019 18:58 EST

While nice, tipping redistributes wealth; it does not create it which is one reason why I like selling land to foreigners who invest new money in the Phils and invariably plan to add more by improving the land. As it is, the local rich stay rich and the poorer rarely get a shot at upgrading. Selling land is like having oil that you export and rake in the new money from other countries. Many other countries recognize this and limit how much their citizens can spend outside of that nation so as too retain wealth/gold/hard currency. They often don't permit their money to be converted freely into other currencies.

Morgacj2004
  5/7/2019 21:39 EST

Exactly. People need to stop asking where the US is everytime there is a crisis somewhere. Where is the UN? It is not nor should it be the USAs role to act as the world's policeman.

surfingcebu
  5/7/2019 22:30 EST

Morgan- the UN died many years ago . Its a defunct GLOBALIST organization that is a money pit and does nothing !

Put it this way , Russia and the People Republic of China are core leaders and permanent members of the UN's "Security Council" that vote in tandem usually … The most elite group of the UN .Need I say more ;-) ??

The UN was like 1949 China revolution under Mao . Great idea that turned real ugly - QUICK ! before its too late !

Gas the UN quick !

Morgacj2004
  5/7/2019 22:35 EST

I realize that Surfing. My comment was more rhetorical than anything else. Despite the UN being basically worthless the US has problems on it's own shores to deal with.

surfingcebu
  5/8/2019 00:13 EST

Morgan- OK I Understand now . Yes , the USA has their hands full . As does the RP . E;ection season in the RP … I feel things are ready to burst with all the Manila political Swamp in action … glad when its over .

jackson001
  5/8/2019 00:16 EST

Religion makes people stupid!!! The more churches there are, themore land taxes the poor people pay.
They live in bamboo shacks while the church buildings are worth 100s of millions of pesos and all the ministers drive suvs?
Why???
Because every elections the cults get their members into government positions.
I see lots of scammy churches here. The bottom floor is parking, the rest ofmthe buulding is apartments rented out.
Perfect for money laundering too.

Earnestndeavor
  5/8/2019 00:34 EST

I asked “where is the U.S.?” In response to an earlier post claiming the U.S. meddles in other countries affairs only for oil. My response was to point out the inaccuracies of that claim, not as approval of the policy. It was meant to be rhetorical. I fully agree that we have plenty of issues at home to deal with.

Earnestndeavor
  5/8/2019 11:49 EST

Jackson, “

“ religion makes people stupid!!!!“

Apparently non religious people can also be stupid .

Morgacj2004
  5/8/2019 16:44 EST

Blanket comments such as what Jackson 001 said are inflammatory and unneeded. There are many religions in the world and to lump everyone in the same category is ignorant. 85% of Filipinos are catholic and take their beliefs very seriously for the most part. I would never criticize the right of someone to engage in one religion or another. I am catholic but as I have said before do not follow or believe in all of the churches teachings.

jackson001
  5/8/2019 18:06 EST

This is so true!!! But our left wing, tree hugger, corrupt politicians keep sending money so the rich can buy houses in the western countries.
Also, Japan has not accepted ONE refugee because they know better!!
How come these refugees can walk to Europe, but can not build their countries up???

surfingcebu
  5/8/2019 19:21 EST

Jackson- you have a point . We in the west are convinced by fake media we need hordes of immigration... not true . Japan is doing well, and they elect to remain Japanese with their culture intact.... instead of giving out passports like candy or fentinol . De- nationalization is going on in the west at a feverish pace. Glad to see the RP still has nationalist views

Robertdav298
  5/8/2019 20:25 EST

Jackson......also JAPAN is an island, so how would immigrants get there.....BOAT?
Unlike the US southern border or even the northern border where an illegal alien can just walk across. NOW WHAT?

I know lets build a wall to help with all the illegals? GOOD IDEA....apparently not!
Here is a fact: did you know that OFW remittances account for over 33% (varies) of the RP economy?
D30 is well aware that there is a huge problem that his new graduates are leaving to go abroad because of the job opportunities and the $$$$$.

darkfader24
  5/8/2019 20:41 EST

RobertDav- I don't know enough to properly speak to The Brain Drain" issue - but - just asking - at least there are foreign dollars flowing back into the RP from OFWs - by the millions / billions (?) that probably would not otherwise. I know that the USA has always been concerned about $$$ flowing from the USA to Mexico for the same reason - so I would assume the same is true for anyone from other countries who work here and send a lot of money back home.

mattinnorfolk
  5/8/2019 23:06 EST

How do you know what to say or start with when you see so much chaos and misinformation. Let us begin slowly 2+2 =?

Earnestndeavor
  5/8/2019 23:21 EST

Surf- I too am glad to see the nationalist views of the Philippines and I have often commented that I prefer being a foreigner in a foreign land than a foreigner in my own country. I would like to hear more of your thoughts on the De-nationalization of the west.

mattinnorfolk
  5/8/2019 23:29 EST

Please don't stress on the 2+2 post, for a few members on the forum I will grade on the curve.

Morgacj2004
  5/8/2019 23:41 EST

Excellent point surfing. Just came back from Japan. They have their act together. Wonderful culture. Love the food. Low crime rate. Clean country. They are exceptionally polite and organized. Not perfect but who is? Then I came back to another school shooting in the US along with the ongoing Trump vs the Media side show .

Thoughtexperiment
  5/9/2019 01:12 EST

Japan saw net immigration rise for a sixth straight year to a record high this year. They have a declining domestic population. What use is nationalism without a nation to celebrate it?

surfingcebu
  5/9/2019 10:41 EST

thought experiment - IF your are inferring Japan will wither away and die ….think again ! Their 'net immigration' is a teaspoon compared to a volume of a pool that of what Europe has imported under globalization !!

Japan has elected to remain Japanese - This fact really IRKS , the globalists ! No moving Japan off their nationalism either ! :) Glad to see the RP has a healthy Nationalism going too ! It will save them in the end I think !

acol
  5/9/2019 14:49 EST

Surfing: yes western Europe is accepting a certain number of migrants now from Syria, Ethiopia, Sudan and so on. Western Europe is getting older and older and if nowadays, 1 out of 4 only is retired, this will decrease dramatically in 2030 (1 out of 3) or 2050 (range around 1 out of 2). Merkel is perfectly conscious of that and therefor accepted over 1 million migrants. She was also very clever: most of first migrants have a rather high level of education besaure they had to pay for the trip and only relatively rich people can afford it. I think I have read that already 57% of migrants in Germany have a job. A piece of (bad) humor here: It's true that Germany has since WWII been used to employ foreigners in stalags and camps.... Forget this.In fact the situation is different from on country to tha other. Italy, Spain, Greece, all natural entries to Europe have been invaded and still welcome a lot of refugees. Because it is not exactly a migration: they to escape war and starvation. I think that immigration in the US has another cause: (eldorado) About Japanese culture, I think I can tell a lot about as I have been working for 2 japanese banks from 1995 to 2001. I like their food, I tille their culture, they are indeed polite, but be sure that anyway, you will remain a "gandji", except for some modern guys. So, for sure I will visit Japan one day, because I have a few japanese friends. But I know what is behind the mask....

acol
  5/9/2019 14:49 EST

Surfing: yes western Europe is accepting a certain number of migrants now from Syria, Ethiopia, Sudan and so on. Western Europe is getting older and older and if nowadays, 1 out of 4 only is retired, this will decrease dramatically in 2030 (1 out of 3) or 2050 (range around 1 out of 2). Merkel is perfectly conscious of that and therefor accepted over 1 million migrants. She was also very clever: most of first migrants have a rather high level of education besaure they had to pay for the trip and only relatively rich people can afford it. I think I have read that already 57% of migrants in Germany have a job. A piece of (bad) humor here: It's true that Germany has since WWII been used to employ foreigners in stalags and camps.... Forget this.In fact the situation is different from on country to tha other. Italy, Spain, Greece, all natural entries to Europe have been invaded and still welcome a lot of refugees. Because it is not exactly a migration: they to escape war and starvation. I think that immigration in the US has another cause: (eldorado) About Japanese culture, I think I can tell a lot about as I have been working for 2 japanese banks from 1995 to 2001. I like their food, I tille their culture, they are indeed polite, but be sure that anyway, you will remain a "gandji", except for some modern guys. So, for sure I will visit Japan one day, because I have a few japanese friends. But I know what is behind the mask....

acol
  5/9/2019 14:57 EST

Sorry for duplicate , I am tuttering sometimes....

Thoughtexperiment
  5/10/2019 00:00 EST

There will be a natural pivot to China as far as the Philippines goes and it will be reciprocated. Filipinos are more synergized culturally to the Chinese than they are to the west.

surfingcebu
  5/10/2019 00:07 EST

Thought experiment - Pinoys are 'Synergized culturally with Red china " ( nice word salad BTW) , you have to be joking though?. Pinoys love freedom and dreams and goals . China will put a big boot on their neck and hold it there - and they know it ! I feel Pinoys have more in line with the west . Many love the west when working here or visiting !!! They hate China ( the ones that have been there ) - does this count ? HA!!!

LarryKar
  5/10/2019 03:22 EST

Have to agree Surf. Even though many if asked would deny it they love the West. American fashion, music, even classic cars. Not the junk Detroit puts out today but go to a car show here. Mustangs and mid 50's cars. My provincial neighbors who don't for the most part even speak English blast oldtime Rock and Roll and Country Western. A let's not even start about the skin whitening products though in fairness that also has to due with other cultural influences.

Thoughtexperiment
  5/10/2019 04:17 EST

The Chinese are more interested in exporting their cheap goods rather than their political ideology.

agypsyquokka
  5/11/2019 03:45 EST

Hi ACOL, Great posting about the advantages of migrants into much of Europe, and its aging populations. You seem to always give a well balanced opinion to many topics here - as being European. There are many on this site who are only interested in pushing / forcing USA politics as being the greatest, and "trying" to justify why the USA is so far behind with infrastructures and debts = "because war and selling arms, are the only options". Another uses the very antiquated term "Red China" as trying to cause fear of that country. China is a great country, as many Filipinos will arrest, as a tourist, but some may not want to live there with the population and climate. Most times we only need to FEAR - is FEAR itself. Thanks for your expansive views, and enjoy your living in Palawan. Smile

ACEPoolPlayer
  5/11/2019 07:49 EST

"only need to fear is fear itself" Quote by Confucius or Mao? I'd guess 90% of the Filipinos have a relative living in the U.S. Does anyone really think they'd rather have a Chinese passport than a U.S. passport? I don't think FDR was referring to being ruled by China but I'm sure most Filipinos would rather have ties to the U.S. than any other country.

agypsyquokka
  5/11/2019 11:06 EST

I agree Ace. Some Filipinos would prefer a USA passport to any other - in part because the USA is portrayed as heaven / eden / what ever you want to call it, but on arrival it is very different - he he he Better they stay in Philippines and enjoy their great country.

agypsyquokka
  5/11/2019 11:11 EST

Hi Ace - I agree that many Filipinos would like to have a USA passport as it is always portrayed as heaven / eden / or other name you choose. Then they arrive and see reality, and the shattered dreams around them. Much better to stay in Philippines and enjoy the beautiful country and their family . He he he

surfingcebu
  5/11/2019 11:24 EST

gypsy- I would say the USA or the west in general is heaven , as you put it , compared to the concentration camp of China .

…but I get your point about the USA and the west in general . Is it Liberalism, feminism and the societal shift from family to LGBTQ , victimology, race politics, overburden - deadwood immigration that adds no value , and rights driven people Vs. risibility driven ? Lets face it , Family is last on the list these days in the west … this is in parallel to the devaluation of moderate religions and faith . Coincidence ?

Earnestndeavor
  5/11/2019 12:13 EST

Surf- I totally agree and I will add that in my 30+ years of Philippine experience including the last 15 years of part time living there I have never heard a single Filipino express a desire to immigrate to China.

gelynch52ph
  5/11/2019 12:29 EST

You can't kill a future that never was. The Philippines will be a failure as long as it is run by Filipinos.

Morgacj2004
  5/11/2019 14:29 EST

You hit the nail on the head Surfing. That is the reason the US is currently in turmoil.

darkfader24
  5/11/2019 15:01 EST

Dear agypsy - I am a Record Producer in California. I work with many wonderful and talented Filipino / Filipina Musicians. One guy who is a Bass Guitar player is an independent real estate agent here in California. He makes great bank. I don't know how long he has been here but I have worked with him and his son, a great singer, since 1993 - 26 years. They love it here. I am currently working with a man whose last name is Mercader. He's from Cebu. He has his own business and drives a big beautiful BMW and dresses sharp. I could go on and on of the many prosperous and hard working Filipnos that live and work here - and prosper. None of them seems anxious to return to the Phils except to see family. They love their homeland - but they have also told me how much they love the USA. Ariel Pineda, who currently sings with the great American Band Journey, lives 3 hours away in San Francisco. Very few people know that he also has a side band. I have worked with his guitarist - who is also a friend of Mercader's. Mercader is working on songs for Pineda's new CD. I am not going to criticize your opinion. The difference is: what I am saying is not my opinion. I am merely passing on theirs'.

darkfader24
  5/11/2019 15:03 EST

I want to correct some things. I always forget to check this thing as it constantly auto-corrects my spelling. First of all, I addressed this to "agypsy" - next, it is ARNEL - not Ariel. This program here drives me crazy.

Earnestndeavor
  5/11/2019 15:27 EST

Gelynch- I post this not to disagree or criticize your opinions. I am truly interested in hearing what has so soured you on the Philippines and Filipinos. You’ve apparently spent time in the Philippines and perhaps have a significant other who is Filipino yet you are unrelenting in your disdain. Was there one momentous event or just an accumulation unpleasant daily happenings? Again, I ask these questions in all sincerity because I think the answers will be of interest to other expats.

Respectfully, Earnie

bbazor
  5/11/2019 20:13 EST

agypsyquokka: Out of respect, I don't usually say this, but you don't know what you are talking about. I have worked with hundreds of Filipinos through the years and they love the US. They love the Philippine as well. But, most of the choose to stay in the USA because of the quality of life. Some make enough money to buy a house and then move back home again. As Darkfader said, this is not opinion, it is a fact.

Robertdav298
  5/11/2019 23:13 EST

GUYS......CMON.......have you not read AGYPSYS posts both past and present???
This guy is anti-us, anti-religion and PRO CHINA.........he may very be CHINESE for all we know!

It is best not to fall for his rhetoric and just move on.

Robertdav298
  5/11/2019 23:23 EST

ACOL, not sure where you are getting your information BUT I can tell you first hand as I have recently been to Ramstein AFB in Germany and then to Lakenheath AFB in Great Britain and spoke to many people about the economy, education and immigration.
These people are fed up with the influx of immigrants, stealing the locals jobs and getting health care etc......these people HATE MIGRANTS.........and the local GERMANS hate MERKEL.

surfingcebu
  5/12/2019 00:17 EST

Robert - you could have a point here about Gypsy . China has hundreds of thousands of bloggers , paid by the state to make China look like a 'doll' . Blogs are full of them .

agypsyquokka
  5/12/2019 03:07 EST

Robertdavy - People need to read some of your past posts about praising everything american and war. You sprout off about religion as well.

NO i am most definitely not Chinese and not Pro-China either. I lived in China for over 5 years and it was a good experience there as a teacher. I have never said in loved China and definitely not its government - BUT one can have good experiences and meet good people in any country. I have lived in 10 countries. That is what we base our opinions on - based on personal experiences , nothing more. True - I am not a lover of USA, but many of the citizens are great. You choose to think i am anti-USA because i do not understand how that country gets soooo much praise - for doing what, in a POSITIVE fashion. Philippine Forum is about Philippines and most of us are here for years, through choice and intend to stay many more years. - That has nothing to do with pushing foreign politics, that does not assist of hinder the Philippines. Read your own past postings.

acol
  5/12/2019 10:16 EST

Robertdav: Your sources of information are.......impressive! How can Merkel is constantly re-elected if she is hated?

surfingcebu
  5/12/2019 11:33 EST

Merkel has destroyed her country , along with some of Europe . The REAL effect is a Decade away . Liberal Globalist media propaganda is VERY good and influential - Very good ! I must admit this .

As in the RP , DU30's borrowing money from Red China and other missteps with them , will only be known after he is long gone …in a decade , maybe less knowing the Chinese Communist machine.

I predict the next spark with China WILL BE over the Spratly Island they occupy and invaded from the Filipino people . Just watch them . We depend so heavily on the USA to Police here invasions . Heck !!! are we going to Wait for France, Germany, Honduras,Sweden or Belgium to help the world with democracy ? LOL !!!! HA!!! Get back that land stolen from the Pinoy people , I say !

surfingcebu
  5/12/2019 11:46 EST

Gypsy- I gather you have to look at how China controls the RP now from Beijing , and from inside the RP government , and how its hedging its future bet on its lands . IF you love the RP like you claim , you would have DEEP concerns RE- China and its moved into the RP political system and its OUTRIGHT invasion of its territory … NO? Hmmmm.

Earnestndeavor
  5/12/2019 11:55 EST

True - I am not a lover of USA, but many of the citizens are great. You choose to think i am anti-USA because i do not understand how that country gets soooo much praise - for doing what, in a POSITIVE fashion.

Gypsy, I find it mind boggling that you have lived in so many different countries and have so much world experience and yet you don’t know why the U.S. gets so much praise, We have earned that praise, that’s why. The U.S. does more to benefit mankind than any nation in history. From our humanitarian efforts such as medical, nutrition, educational to our vigorous defense of liberty and freedom. Right now, today, our brave men and women are serving in the South China Sea showing solidarity with the Philippines against the military aggressions of your Chinese buddies.

Perhaps you would like to tell us what your country is doing in regards to any of the above mentioned.

Respectfully, Earnie

Robertdav298
  5/12/2019 19:58 EST

ACOL........think about it......migrants VOTE......correct.......all of these migrants and their families vote for MERKEL because in their eyes she is the one who let them in.

Similarly in the US, the DEMOCRATS want to let thousands of illegal immigrants in the US so they can get votes......the DEMOCRATS have a bill in congress to allow ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS to vote..

Do yourself a favor and go to you tube and research "muslim demographics" then you will see exactly what I am talking about.

Here is a question for you, in BELGIUM what is the average number of true Belgium citizens i.e. born and raised......the the household?

Robertdav298
  5/12/2019 20:10 EST

GYPSY......you are absolutely correct about my posts, I am a flag waving US American born and raised.
I am proud to be an American and I do not get into debates about the decisions my country makes......right or wrong!

However I am smart enough to know that their are plenty of people that like to dwell on our mistakes, wars etc....! There are people that think CHINA, FRANCE, GERMANY, BRITAIN and others are better than the US.........my answer to them is move there.

surfingcebu
  5/13/2019 00:18 EST

Robert - Just the Idea of Brussels making decision on your countries security and how many immigrants you get and when and so forth , is SO BIZARRE ! Your stripped of your nationality and citizenship … as well as your national pride . Exactly what they want ! No boarders, no doors, no fences , no walls… NO THANKS ! I have a fence around my yard and a front door that locks - for a reason ! Scary transition the world is going through . I see China paid bloggers ( most from 'reconditioning camps' ) roving up their online presents . They are everywhere on blogs now . I heard about this while in China - you blog for your meal at 7pm while in 'conditioning camps' . Just a freaking scary country ! I hope the RP distances themselves from the China expansion. The Children of the RP deserve a chance !

mootpoint20
  5/13/2019 13:38 EST

Not that this is a 'Philippine' problem but the origin and mass-movement of everything is the Globalist agenda, which needs to eliminate national restrictions. Begun in Paris with Obama helping. It's a big gang, and they hope to destroy America as independent. Many puppets used including terrorists, libertines, and feminist ideology. Once established they will eliminate these independent 'intellectuals' with a gun because, "Everybody is equal, but some of us are more equal than others!"

Thoughtexperiment
  5/14/2019 04:29 EST

It's all about the Fed...The U.S. has a “TRUMP” card, pardon the pun, and that is the power of the dollar as well as the gargantuan sphere of influence the Federal Reserve is able to exercise in global monetary conditions, especially in emerging markets like the Philippines. The People’s Bank of China isn’t even close and until China’s financial markets truly open and the yuan becomes an international currency, it wont happen. Hence there is arguably causality in play between the US and Philippines.

Chinese investment is showing up in all corners of the Philippines’ economy, including fintech, mobile, tourism, gaming and real estate. Chinese tourists are reshaping the leisure scene, for better or worse. China is the second-biggest source of travelers after South Korea. The U.S. was third. Downtown Manila has drawn tens of thousands of mainland migrants who are snapping up apartments and driving real-estate development and prices.

This pattern is driven by China’s growing wealth, technological prowess, gross domestic product and proximity. While the U.S. is powerful in Asia, its center of influence is distant.

IDAHO1
  5/14/2019 09:18 EST

Has anyone seen the full page ads that China is putting into the Philippine newspapers.
They go on about how much pure good China is doing for the Phils.
One touted how they were going to add so much capacity to the phone system.
Since they already own the systems that are there, this giant addition will let them monitor any phone conversation in the country. But, they forgot to mention that.

surfingcebu
  5/14/2019 13:33 EST

Idaho- China are doing these ads all over SE Asia . scary !

davidhzzz
  5/16/2019 03:29 EST

Property ownership changes might help. I think the main reason has been mismanagement and corruption. I spent four years in Ukraine (2005-2009) and as much as they tried corruption from the Soviet period was so ingrained that any change will be stop and go for many years to come. Strong democracy is the cure. Examples South Korea and Japan. It starts at the top.

wmg2
  5/26/2019 01:07 EST

Suefingcebu, could not agree with you more. Spot on.

mootpoint20
  5/28/2019 11:41 EST

Well, all I can say is I'm glad we got this problem solved. (P.S. Someone above misspelled a word and used '...prison.' by mistake, making his point just the opposite of what he wanted. Whew! But right now I forgot what his point really was.)

mootpoint20
  5/30/2019 12:48 EST

My efforts to be funny, may have been offensive. I hope you will forgive me.

Earnestndeavor
  6/8/2019 21:50 EST

Forbes.com says Philippines is 10th fastest growing economy in the world.

surfingcebu
  6/8/2019 22:26 EST

If Forbes is right, more cause for alarm as most wealth is not filtering down to any form of worker . Anyway to put things into perspective a 5%8-% GDP growth rate inthe RP , is eaten up with hyper inflation. Wage growth is dead, or deteriorating badly. A lot of the GDP was based on leverage borrowing as well. So Forbes May be right for once , but there is a lot more to the story on one statistic

Robertdav298
  6/8/2019 22:43 EST

I wonder where Forbes gathered that info? Tell that to the Filipino farmer that makes 120ph per day before they take out ss and taxes.
Makes me wonder?

Earnestndeavor
  6/9/2019 00:31 EST

The article was short on facts and long on opinion. Not a flattering article for sure but an interesting read.

Beadwindow2020
  6/11/2019 02:04 EST

You think that's bad, in Nepal you can't stay longer than 150 days unless you pay $2000 per year to the government and a little to the admin processing your papers. Or unless you're married. Talk about freezing a society in its tracks. Bank accounts? You can receive money, but not send it. PayPal, forget it. Your bank gives you a card which can only be used in the country. What a backwards country 100 times worse than the Philippines. And you can't even get a beef hamburger.

LovePhilly
  6/17/2019 13:49 EST

Insite, I completely agree with this author. It seems in all cultures, those that are least capable of being productive to society reproduce the most.

Abortion is not the answer but sex education and availability of birth control is. I agree with enforced child support but "you can't get blood from a turnip".

Finally but most importantly, the educational system needs fixed. They need to improve curriculums in the schools and encourage talented teachers. I lived near a school there for several months and it seemed like every day the kids were just singing or dancing or taking a day off because one class had a test. When do they learn math?

Just my thoughts.

Robertdav298
  6/17/2019 19:00 EST

LOVEPHILLY, have you ever heard the saying "it all starts at home".
Students need good study habits and parents to encourage learning, proper hygiene.....in a poor country its very difficult to have either of these.

If you look at the US, especially in the inner cities you constantly hear the same rhetoric.

mootpoint20
  6/18/2019 11:15 EST

In the inner-city you have a 'surplus-army of workers'. Hired when needed, fired when not. Currently, many are obtaining new jobs in America. Eventually, the culture will change. Welfare will not be wanted for survival. Racism will not make any sense. I will vote again for the present-president. (I wish I had an answer for the Philippines but it is beyond my 'pay-grade')

LovePhilly
  6/19/2019 14:06 EST

Robert you are exactly right...it does start at home. The problem for the overall society though is; the parents that lack the proper values to pass onto children are the parents that have the most children! lol.

My solution will anger someone here and that's ok. I think for anyone that has one child and wants government benefits, they should agree to voluntary sterilization to qualify.

Now that's a can of worms!

Robertdav298
  6/19/2019 20:04 EST

LOVE PHILLY......and now they are letting illegal immigrants in our country by the thousands.......and how are they going to help our country? How are they going to be educated? Who is going to pay for this?
JOE BIDEN......BERNIE.....BETO.......oh I know the governor of California........who is offering.......FREE MEDICAL to all ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS

LovePhilly
  6/19/2019 23:10 EST

I know Robert. It's a mess.

LovePhilly
  6/19/2019 23:10 EST

I know Robert. It's a mess.

mootpoint20
  7/20/2019 10:44 EST

"...They should AGREE to voluntary sterilization."

I don't see how individuals contract out their personal lives to do 'voluntary' activities. Sounds terribly contradictory and similar to "1984", by George Orwell.

LovePhilly
  7/20/2019 12:01 EST

Moot....

Explain?

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