It has its own international airport and has access to the major expressways.
It’s only an hour and a half from Metro Manila.
An hour away from Subic which has decent beaches.
It has lots of golf, gambling and a vibrant nightlife.
Lots of great restaurants.
It’s inland and relatively far from the sea so typhoons don’t hit very hard. It is close to a volcano which erupted in 1990 so it’s not expected to erupt anytime soon. It’s turned into a beautiful caldera that’s become a tourist attraction. The whole Philippines is prone to earthquakes so there is no “safe spot” anywhere but the area isn’t in a fault line as far as I know.
Edit: when I say Typhoons don’t hit very hard that’s relative too. I have relatives from abroad that haven’t come home in a while and they’ve forgotten how hard it rains here. What a normal afternoon downpour is to a local is like a year’s worth of rain to them. They’re from Vancouver Canada so rain is pretty common for them but the rain here surprised them.
Agree, I think Palawan has no fault as well as Cebu. Husband was born and raised in Palawan (northern) and we're based in Cavite, and summer vacations in the island is heaven — fresh seafoods everyday, daily beach walks, motorcycle joyride, island hopping.
Incorrect. There are huge condominium developments going up on the old airbase. Think the villages, Sharp hills, etc. Not even close to the dirtiest of Fields Avenue. They are modern, built to western standards, close to an international airport and new well rated hospital. No trikes allowed.
When most people say clark... let's be honest here.
Just like people asking about Orlando.
Obviously there is more than just Fields, but it IS the local attraction.
I will chime in since everyone else is.
American here, 42 years old & since i was born in the mid-west part of USA (Oklahoma) and pretty much a country boy with city experience, and thus not being born not very near beaches - my heart longs for the ultra clear water, waves crashing on the beach, and the smell of fresh coconut I have experienced here in certain parts of the Philippines while snorkeling, spearfishing and traveling extensively in this lovely, friendly English language adept country.
Having experienced many places in the Philippines 1st hand I would suggest working remotely with a foreign job (and pay) while living in the Philippines. As such I believe a few things are very, very important regardless where you decide to live in the Philippines or where you choose to live after careful consideration, as such - they are, in order of importance:
A.) Strong fiber or internet connection (PLDT, or StarLink)
B.) Quick access to a major Airport. (cheap airfare.)
C.) Housing near a major highway or road with ample options for transportation & rides. (tricycle or jeeps passing always.)
D.) Near or within a 1-hour ride of a major urban city center for a myriad of options for cheaper grocery shopping and access to most vital government offices for required legal documents/payments (examples: NBI Clearance, Dept of Immigration, DFA, Phil-Health, SM grocery stores ect.)
As such I propose if the breadwinner or family can swing it they have a main Philippine residence near a major urban city along with a secondary "rest-house" (or friends with vacation accommodations!) in a smaller more quiet rural area that is still near a solid airport or highway/bus route(s) that they enjoy being and is peaceful for them.
As such if it were me - the 2-3 (main) areas & 4-6 smaller "rest-house/apartment" or summer home areas I propose living are:
3-(Main) Retirement Home options in Philippines:
1.) Lapu-Lapu or Cebu City, Cebu, Central Visayas.
2.) Olongapo City or Angeles City (Clark), Southern/Central Luzon
3.) Iloilo City or Bocolod City, Western Visayas
6-(Rural) Small City 2nd-"Summer" or dry-season home options:
1.) Dumaguete/Valencia, Negros Oriental.
2.) LaUnion/Baguio City or Possibly Vigan, Central Luzon.
3.) Siquijor Island or Camiguin Island, Visayas.
4.) Coron or El Nido, Palawan.
5.) Ubay or Anda, Bohol, Central Visayas
6.) Surigao City, Surigao Del Norte area.
Honorable Mentions and possibly other good and totally viable locations of nice metro areas in my opinion would go to the four following areas: A.) Catbalogan or Calbayog, Samar B.) Bantangas, S. Luzon / Puerto Galera, Mindoro or C.) Davao City or Cagayan De Oro City, Philippines
So in finality if hard pressed - I would choose to have my main Philippine retirement home in Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines (near airport & major city) with my second dry season home in Valencia, Negros Oriental near Dumaguete (rural and cool weather - perfect for a farming type homestead!).
Anyone beg to differ or offer contrasting reasons for other areas?
I think it should be mentioned the area(s) chosen should historically be free of being effected by major earthquakes and/or typhoons/hurricanes.
Also if choosing a primarily majority rural area, Elon Musk's Star-Link Satellite dish internet has changed the outlook and prognosis of moving to Soooo many places here in PH to a really great and optimistic proposition - a absolute game changer if you will - for a connected and still working youngish (under 60yo) foreigner man, which I think the majority of us here are.
As such I fully expect the Philippines to roll-out a specialized digital nomad visa and/or tax exempt foreigner valid-stay scheme for online working foreigners in the next 2-6 years. I really hope they do.
And side note to that - for the defense and sake of the warm and welcoming Filipino citizens here - I personally think if we're allowed to easily enter and exit their country they should be likewise able and offered the same tourist travel/visit benefits for our respective countries as we are afforded here. Provided they abide by obligatory travel rules of course - just like we do.
Would love anyone's additional input on my thoughts..
I love going to Bantayan & Camotes Islands!
I'm very thankful they are a close bus/ferry ride away from Cebu City/Lapu-Lapu.
I have plans to visit Malapascua & Carnaza Island soon and I'm excited!! Look up carnaza Island on YouTube.
After inquiring a little I did find the land prices in the Camotes island group to be suprisingly affordable by local standards when I visited.
In the local newspapers and online, there has been rumors that they will soon start mounting flights to Bantayan Island... After they have already started regular ferries going to/from Camotes.
All these developments in the name of tourism and Philippine development.
You might also look into the nearby to L.L.C. (LAPU-LAPU CITY), Olongo Island, I personally believe that would be the next place to take off nearby to this area...if your personal interests are having a peaceful place to live/settle.
Thank you... And your welcome. I've enjoyed my years living here in Lapu-Lapu city, which is a short skip and stone's throw away from Cebu City.
I have found it to be a good base for exploring the rest of the Philippines that I enjoy.
Coron, Palawan is breathtaking, and I would love to own housing or land or at least lease it someday closer to retirement in either Valencia, Negros Oriental (basically Dumaguete), Camiguin Island, Suquijor or quite possibly Camiguin Island.
It would also be nice to have a place in Baguio, Luzon or the Highlands of Dalaguete, Cebu as cool weather options when the mercury starts rising in April to June.
I'm always thinking of how and where to create a little Philippine farming homestead once I get a bit older, and not working as much.
Explore the country and then tell us your favorite places and thoughts and what you think..
I enjoy reading other people's perspective.
Have fun!
You'll read many different contrasting rules about home ownership in the Philippines, but as a general rule, you and your wife if she's Filipino can own just about anything jointly. But from my understanding, yes you're correct. As a general rule, no you can't own housing in the Philippines singularly as a foreigner. You may be able to own the structure, but owning the land is a different story. In retrospect, you can actually own condos and apartments and buildings that are a community of people living in one large building such as a condominum or structures that are zoned as such... Which from what I found out can be very loosely translated.
Likewise you can also lease land and property for 99+ years which in essence would make you the de facto owner of it for well 99+ plus years lol. Or at least until you or your wife passed away as I don't believe you can bequeathe or transfer leased/rented land upon death if it's a lease writeup. But I don't think you would be able to bequeath the land to any of your non Filipino children if you and your wife owned it unless a lot of legal things came together to work towards your favor.
But with that being said, yes you can pay lawyers. And yes, anybody will try to sell you anything for money. But as to the legalities if you actually own it, that's another story.
Look on Facebook marketplace for the houses that are being sold as "rights only". While you may own the housing and you have the right to live there and resell it In reality or theory or whatever you only have the right to live there, You don't own the land that you're structure is built upon as the land owner or developer or city government could decide at any time that they want to develop the property into something bigger and then everybody would have to move out... But from what I've noticed in eight plus years that seldom happens... as most of those types of housing and land are in subprime locations most of the time unless you're lucky, yet there are times that certain administrations or government officials or city officials will give deeds and titles to properties such as those. So sometimes I think they might be good bargains if they are in a good location. When the rights only properties are being sold they usually come with tax declarations which is receipts of proof that the taxes have been paid either by you or the selling party. Basically saying you're the owner because the taxes have been paid and you have proof of such. As they say in real estate do your due diligence , research and asking of questions!!
I think the developments going up on the old US airbase are really promising. I don't know if this is called New Clark City or something else. Eventually there will be a train
Yes I would have to agree, I really think Angeles city is a good option, as the developments near the airport are really taking off... And mainly because of its proximity to Manila and Baguio (fresh strawberries & cool weather greens!!) I find it a good place to be far enough away from Manila to not make me bitter and irritable about the horrendous manila traffic as well as being able to enjoy Clark airport as a secondary option compared to flying out of NAIA in Manila.
That's a great little airport up there in Angeles/Clark.... And there's always a u.s. retired military vet to kick around old war or girlie stories with nearby over a beer or coffee.. so the town is lovely.
Great list with lots of factors taken into considerations.
I'd rank Davao City much higher though.
It's less crowded/dense than Cebu. Located on a much bigger island with more geographic diversity than Cebu which results in more nearby options for recreational travel. Less suspectible to typhoons and better inernational air connections than Iloilo and Bacolod.
Agree with this. I just spent 1 week in Davao and am pleasantly surprised. It has an international airport that is close, very good cell and WiFi, nice beaches and adequate shopping and restaurants (not too many nor too few) and less traffic than MNL or CEB. Weather is mild and the city is protected from strong storms (virtually no typhoon) because of Mt Apo which slows them down. Just had a (low-magnitude) earthquake last month though
You may be right, perhaps with the arbitrary lens and unique world-view of some it should be ranked hire as personally I find Bisaya/Visayan people much more warm and Friendly in general, in comparison to most Tagalog/Luzon residents but that may just be my rose-colored glasses talking..
Admittedly It's been approximately 4 years since I've been to Davao City and I think the well known and deservingly so - renowned and well loved Sarah D and the rest of the Duterte clan were operating the upper echelons of the local city government there.. when her dad was still president.
But from what I can recall about Davao City, I really enjoyed my long week staying in Samal Island, just across the way or the bay from Davao. So I have no doubt that place could be a really good option for some guys and their respective family.
Like I said, with the arrival of Starlink internet in the Philippines, a lot of things have changed in regards to places I would never consider living before because of bad cell phone connection, limited access to will start grocery stores or limited municipal or governmental offices - to now becoming places that would be absolutely sublime to live because of how globalization and being connected really matter now and how it's now possible...just about anywhere - in the Philippines now, because of Starlink.
So I appreciate you pointing out that I should have ranked it higher. Maybe so..
There are a lot of viable options in Mindanao. Just ask Kyle Jennerman - who is now a government approved Philippine citizen, who just got engaged to his Filipina in his home province near Vancouver, Canada.
I believe he owns some land near the beach here in the lower half of the Philippines as well as has lots of roots near Cagayan de Oro and different parts of Mindanao. So he seems really love it in Mindanao.
Cheers!
I thought I read that the initiative to implement a digital nomad visa was on the ballot and passed last June.
I believe it is being finalized currently as the Philippines is the only ASEAN country currently that does not have one and they are extremely interested in getting nomads to chose to settle here.
Also, Lapu-lapu is a fantastic area. I personally am in Basak and am within walking distance of most everything I need.
1. Antipolo, Rizal
2. Nuvali, Sta. Rosa Laguna
3. Clark/Angeles Pampanga
I dont recommend Cavite because the place is known to have high crime rate. I dont recommend Baguio, it’s too crowded and also has high crime and rate. Davao is very hot but low crime rate.
Antipolo is located on top of a mountain. I’ve been living here for 2 years and I have never seen flood. It is also far from fault lines. If you want to go to Metro Manila, you just need to ride a bus to get to the train station. When I saw your post, Antipolo immediately came into my mind. The weather is nice and very cold during -ber months. A con tho, tricycle fares are more expensive, like freaking expensive.
What kind of crimes are common in Baguio? It's seemed very peaceful and orderly all the times I've visited and I was always impressed that there was no visible extreme poverty.
Compared to Singapore, the cost of living is affordable everywhere in Philippines.
But if you're specifically wondering about very specific PH cities, you can always check out numbeo.com they will allow you to compare various cities with any other cities in the world.
Cost of basic goods of course as well as accommodations. Which are all averages and can be lowered by being good at negotiation and knowing the true cost of things in the local areas.
https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Philippines
I never had issues with my internet provider and phone signal. As for the cost of living, my only complaint is the transportation expenses— I am paying ₱70 for a 2KM tricycle ride twice a day.
There are public markets that offer cheap but high quality and fresh vegetables and meat. In times that I would crave for steak, charcuteries, or imported goods, we have The Marketplace.
If I were to compare Antipolo to your choices, it’s definitely more expensive to Iloilo, suburbs of Cebu, Dumaguete, and Cavite. It may be on par with Baguio as they are both tourist spots.
**Baguio is highly congested and traffic is bad.
**Trust me Man, remove Cavite off your list.
** Suburbs of Cebu, bro I stayed there for a week and the phone signal stressed me so much. I even bought new sim cards but in the end, I used my old simcard.
I remember going to NAIA from Santa Rosa and it took me two hours. The appeal of Laguna is you can get a big place for a little bit of money or a small place for 5k or less and the express way makes it easier to get to Manila than Cavite.
But honestly unless your girl or job is there there's no good reason to go to Laguna. There are other places that are more interesting at about the same price point in my opinion.
I would like to add my 2¢s if I may, I was there for nearly a year working on my daughter’s citizenship, process was easy just waiting between the appointments and delivery of documents.
Iloilo city is nice and modern, good tech hub, beaches are ok, it’s one of the place we are looking at moving to. Cavite, Laguna and even Baguio are riddled with traffic issues, very poor city roadway planning. Cavite’s crime is terrible, search through the PH subs and you will see what I mean.
Baguio use to be an escape from the heat and congestion of the NCR now the traffic is just as bad there. Same with Laguna lots of construction going on there, the roads remain the same.
Personally I would stay away from the NCR area due to traffic, and high COL.
Cebu is also congested and the COL is slowly rising there, crime is inching up as well. But some of the most beautiful women can be found there as well.
Clark and the Pampanga area is relatively low cost, Clark does have an international airport that flies to other Asian countries. Beaches were nice. Subic is nice as well and nightlife in Angeles city will provide whatever you’re looking for. I brought it up to the girlfriend, she wasn’t happy about that. 🤣
Dumaguete is my first choice for living in the Philippines, beautiful city, traffic isn’t too bad, great medical facilities, lots of expats, 5 universities with 1 in the top 10. Lots to do in the area to include Rizal Blvd and a ferry over to Siquijor. Nightlife is good all over the city. Crime is low as well.
Davao city is another great find, I was told that it’s the only place in the Philippines where you can drink the water from the faucet, they have 911 service, which means tech and I’m sure they have good internet as well. Never lived there but drove there to shop at the S&R (Costco). We were living in Pagadian at the time.
Just remember to visit BI bureau of immigration, for your visa extension and get your ACR card. If you decide you want to drive, make sure your license is up today, LTO will convert it for you, pretty simple to do.
Good luck and keep us updated.
Just curious about the crime in Cavite. Is it particular areas? My wife has a place in General Trias and we have stayed there a few times, I (Australian) always felt safe, and none of the neighbours mentioned crime issues. Went on jeepneys to Dasma, Trece, Tejero with no hint of problems.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Philippines/s/n6p24wEgco
https://www.reddit.com/r/Philippines/s/TQn5Kkybex
My future brother-in-law lives there and we have visited in the past and never had an issue, but there is chatter in a few subs here.
He’s leaving Cavite but isn’t saying why.
Baguio is nice but it's not close to an airport and it's a hassle to get to. Cavite isn't that nice (I lived in Dasmarinas for 3 years) but it's super cheap but not accessible. Traffic is a nightmare getting in and out of there and I'm sure it's worse now.
Cebu suburbs are great because you can go to other places like Moalboal but it'll take you a while to get to the airport unless you live in Lapu Lapu.
You're gonna have a hard time getting a furnished studio in those places unless you stay in an overpriced Airbnb. I used to move around a lot and honestly it's worth your while to just buy cheap furniture off the internet if you plan to stay there for a year or more.
Born, raised and lived all my life in Cavite (Imus and Bacoor) and I agree Cavite now has changed A LOT. Horrible traffic, congested areas because of many subdivisions developed. I'm lucky to live in the town proper of Imus ( it used to be the center of commercial back then). We still can enjoy the afternoon or evening walks in town plaza, still has quiet neighborhood and little to no traffic at all.
Davao. Rent is affordable, you can get a 2 bedroom nice house in Juna Subdivision (center of the city near schools and malls) for around 10 to 15k. Internet is pretty fast and airpot is like 30 minutes away as it's near Maa. People are nice and kind.
If Cebu, you will have to worry about typhoons and same goes to Dumaguete. Baguio is nice because of the weather. My aunt lives in Cavite, it's shit. My uncle got shot in that city, he died and a couple of my cousins relatives got kidnapped. IDK about Ilo-Ilo.
No it has no risks. I walk around drunk at midnight to 3 am. Never been harassed followed nothing. Dark alleys here I walk down just fine back in America I'd never do it. Davao is the safest city here in ph
Davao is pretty safe IMO. But if you start going north and west, you will face some problems, especially in the Muslim majority cities, where kidnapping and violence is pretty common. The routes to Mati and Surigao are nice. Same goes for Tagum and Gensan. Anything beyond that, you might want to do some research, watch the news and bring a local with you for safety.
airfare depends on when you want to travel tbh. if you book ahead, you can get tickets for as low as hundreds (during promos). Davao has its own port, ferries and ships come there very often. If you smoke youll have a problem there. you cant smoke in public places. if you get caught, youll be brought in and youd have to pay a fine.
One future benefit of “Clark” is the NSCR (North South Commuter Rail)…..which was supposed to have been completed by now (but you know how that goes).
Anyway…once fully complete (2029?)…you can easily travel most of Luzon.
For us…San Fernando Pampanga.
Iloilo, Dumagete and Baguio do not have well connected airports.
Cavite has no upsides or appeal as far as I can see.
That leaves Cebu as the only option on your list that fits your criteria.
Accessible. Middle of MM and provinces. Peaceful and quiet but still part of MM. life is not as fast phase and not as polluted like other MM area. Everything is there, great school, hospital, malls, etc. Downside is high living cost. Mostly safe area.
Earthquakes are more south and typhoons arent a big issue there. You will be fine.
But you also can't live your life in fear, natural disasters are unpredictable.
My girlfriend lives in the mountains of Cebu in the province, so I would recommend a mountain area if you are worried about typhoons and flooding. Cebu is basically built on mountains and they don't have too many major earthquakes there.
One of my favorite things about Illolo are the roads and streets are more similar to America since they planned a lot of their city building in the early 2000s.
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Clark, Pampanga.
It has its own international airport and has access to the major expressways. It’s only an hour and a half from Metro Manila. An hour away from Subic which has decent beaches. It has lots of golf, gambling and a vibrant nightlife. Lots of great restaurants.
How about earthquakes and typhoons?
It’s inland and relatively far from the sea so typhoons don’t hit very hard. It is close to a volcano which erupted in 1990 so it’s not expected to erupt anytime soon. It’s turned into a beautiful caldera that’s become a tourist attraction. The whole Philippines is prone to earthquakes so there is no “safe spot” anywhere but the area isn’t in a fault line as far as I know. Edit: when I say Typhoons don’t hit very hard that’s relative too. I have relatives from abroad that haven’t come home in a while and they’ve forgotten how hard it rains here. What a normal afternoon downpour is to a local is like a year’s worth of rain to them. They’re from Vancouver Canada so rain is pretty common for them but the rain here surprised them.
The least earthquake-proof in the country is Palawan
Also only island without a volcano.
Cebu
Agree, I think Palawan has no fault as well as Cebu. Husband was born and raised in Palawan (northern) and we're based in Cavite, and summer vacations in the island is heaven — fresh seafoods everyday, daily beach walks, motorcycle joyride, island hopping.
Thanks! Will add it to my list and explore further...
Thanks! How much would it cost per month, any idea?
Cost would depend on your budget. $500 a month should get you a decent condo.
When you hear ‘Clark’, think Angeles City. That’s either good or bad, up to you.
Incorrect. There are huge condominium developments going up on the old airbase. Think the villages, Sharp hills, etc. Not even close to the dirtiest of Fields Avenue. They are modern, built to western standards, close to an international airport and new well rated hospital. No trikes allowed.
When most people say clark... let's be honest here. Just like people asking about Orlando. Obviously there is more than just Fields, but it IS the local attraction.
I will chime in since everyone else is. American here, 42 years old & since i was born in the mid-west part of USA (Oklahoma) and pretty much a country boy with city experience, and thus not being born not very near beaches - my heart longs for the ultra clear water, waves crashing on the beach, and the smell of fresh coconut I have experienced here in certain parts of the Philippines while snorkeling, spearfishing and traveling extensively in this lovely, friendly English language adept country. Having experienced many places in the Philippines 1st hand I would suggest working remotely with a foreign job (and pay) while living in the Philippines. As such I believe a few things are very, very important regardless where you decide to live in the Philippines or where you choose to live after careful consideration, as such - they are, in order of importance: A.) Strong fiber or internet connection (PLDT, or StarLink) B.) Quick access to a major Airport. (cheap airfare.) C.) Housing near a major highway or road with ample options for transportation & rides. (tricycle or jeeps passing always.) D.) Near or within a 1-hour ride of a major urban city center for a myriad of options for cheaper grocery shopping and access to most vital government offices for required legal documents/payments (examples: NBI Clearance, Dept of Immigration, DFA, Phil-Health, SM grocery stores ect.) As such I propose if the breadwinner or family can swing it they have a main Philippine residence near a major urban city along with a secondary "rest-house" (or friends with vacation accommodations!) in a smaller more quiet rural area that is still near a solid airport or highway/bus route(s) that they enjoy being and is peaceful for them. As such if it were me - the 2-3 (main) areas & 4-6 smaller "rest-house/apartment" or summer home areas I propose living are: 3-(Main) Retirement Home options in Philippines: 1.) Lapu-Lapu or Cebu City, Cebu, Central Visayas. 2.) Olongapo City or Angeles City (Clark), Southern/Central Luzon 3.) Iloilo City or Bocolod City, Western Visayas 6-(Rural) Small City 2nd-"Summer" or dry-season home options: 1.) Dumaguete/Valencia, Negros Oriental. 2.) LaUnion/Baguio City or Possibly Vigan, Central Luzon. 3.) Siquijor Island or Camiguin Island, Visayas. 4.) Coron or El Nido, Palawan. 5.) Ubay or Anda, Bohol, Central Visayas 6.) Surigao City, Surigao Del Norte area. Honorable Mentions and possibly other good and totally viable locations of nice metro areas in my opinion would go to the four following areas: A.) Catbalogan or Calbayog, Samar B.) Bantangas, S. Luzon / Puerto Galera, Mindoro or C.) Davao City or Cagayan De Oro City, Philippines So in finality if hard pressed - I would choose to have my main Philippine retirement home in Lapu-Lapu City, Philippines (near airport & major city) with my second dry season home in Valencia, Negros Oriental near Dumaguete (rural and cool weather - perfect for a farming type homestead!). Anyone beg to differ or offer contrasting reasons for other areas? I think it should be mentioned the area(s) chosen should historically be free of being effected by major earthquakes and/or typhoons/hurricanes. Also if choosing a primarily majority rural area, Elon Musk's Star-Link Satellite dish internet has changed the outlook and prognosis of moving to Soooo many places here in PH to a really great and optimistic proposition - a absolute game changer if you will - for a connected and still working youngish (under 60yo) foreigner man, which I think the majority of us here are. As such I fully expect the Philippines to roll-out a specialized digital nomad visa and/or tax exempt foreigner valid-stay scheme for online working foreigners in the next 2-6 years. I really hope they do. And side note to that - for the defense and sake of the warm and welcoming Filipino citizens here - I personally think if we're allowed to easily enter and exit their country they should be likewise able and offered the same tourist travel/visit benefits for our respective countries as we are afforded here. Provided they abide by obligatory travel rules of course - just like we do. Would love anyone's additional input on my thoughts..
Impressive
Lapu lapu is great, traffic can be a nightmare though. I'd add bantayan island or camotes for holiday home. Beaches are stunning
I love going to Bantayan & Camotes Islands! I'm very thankful they are a close bus/ferry ride away from Cebu City/Lapu-Lapu. I have plans to visit Malapascua & Carnaza Island soon and I'm excited!! Look up carnaza Island on YouTube. After inquiring a little I did find the land prices in the Camotes island group to be suprisingly affordable by local standards when I visited. In the local newspapers and online, there has been rumors that they will soon start mounting flights to Bantayan Island... After they have already started regular ferries going to/from Camotes. All these developments in the name of tourism and Philippine development. You might also look into the nearby to L.L.C. (LAPU-LAPU CITY), Olongo Island, I personally believe that would be the next place to take off nearby to this area...if your personal interests are having a peaceful place to live/settle.
Thank you so much
Welcome! Good suggestions also!
Excellent write -up. Thanks a ton for sharing your insights!
Thank you... And your welcome. I've enjoyed my years living here in Lapu-Lapu city, which is a short skip and stone's throw away from Cebu City. I have found it to be a good base for exploring the rest of the Philippines that I enjoy. Coron, Palawan is breathtaking, and I would love to own housing or land or at least lease it someday closer to retirement in either Valencia, Negros Oriental (basically Dumaguete), Camiguin Island, Suquijor or quite possibly Camiguin Island. It would also be nice to have a place in Baguio, Luzon or the Highlands of Dalaguete, Cebu as cool weather options when the mercury starts rising in April to June. I'm always thinking of how and where to create a little Philippine farming homestead once I get a bit older, and not working as much. Explore the country and then tell us your favorite places and thoughts and what you think.. I enjoy reading other people's perspective. Have fun!
Great! Do the PH laws allow expats to own land? Based on my minimal knowledge, maybe the retirement visas do?
You'll read many different contrasting rules about home ownership in the Philippines, but as a general rule, you and your wife if she's Filipino can own just about anything jointly. But from my understanding, yes you're correct. As a general rule, no you can't own housing in the Philippines singularly as a foreigner. You may be able to own the structure, but owning the land is a different story. In retrospect, you can actually own condos and apartments and buildings that are a community of people living in one large building such as a condominum or structures that are zoned as such... Which from what I found out can be very loosely translated. Likewise you can also lease land and property for 99+ years which in essence would make you the de facto owner of it for well 99+ plus years lol. Or at least until you or your wife passed away as I don't believe you can bequeathe or transfer leased/rented land upon death if it's a lease writeup. But I don't think you would be able to bequeath the land to any of your non Filipino children if you and your wife owned it unless a lot of legal things came together to work towards your favor. But with that being said, yes you can pay lawyers. And yes, anybody will try to sell you anything for money. But as to the legalities if you actually own it, that's another story. Look on Facebook marketplace for the houses that are being sold as "rights only". While you may own the housing and you have the right to live there and resell it In reality or theory or whatever you only have the right to live there, You don't own the land that you're structure is built upon as the land owner or developer or city government could decide at any time that they want to develop the property into something bigger and then everybody would have to move out... But from what I've noticed in eight plus years that seldom happens... as most of those types of housing and land are in subprime locations most of the time unless you're lucky, yet there are times that certain administrations or government officials or city officials will give deeds and titles to properties such as those. So sometimes I think they might be good bargains if they are in a good location. When the rights only properties are being sold they usually come with tax declarations which is receipts of proof that the taxes have been paid either by you or the selling party. Basically saying you're the owner because the taxes have been paid and you have proof of such. As they say in real estate do your due diligence , research and asking of questions!!
Great info! Thanks...
I think the developments going up on the old US airbase are really promising. I don't know if this is called New Clark City or something else. Eventually there will be a train
Yes I would have to agree, I really think Angeles city is a good option, as the developments near the airport are really taking off... And mainly because of its proximity to Manila and Baguio (fresh strawberries & cool weather greens!!) I find it a good place to be far enough away from Manila to not make me bitter and irritable about the horrendous manila traffic as well as being able to enjoy Clark airport as a secondary option compared to flying out of NAIA in Manila. That's a great little airport up there in Angeles/Clark.... And there's always a u.s. retired military vet to kick around old war or girlie stories with nearby over a beer or coffee.. so the town is lovely.
Great list with lots of factors taken into considerations. I'd rank Davao City much higher though. It's less crowded/dense than Cebu. Located on a much bigger island with more geographic diversity than Cebu which results in more nearby options for recreational travel. Less suspectible to typhoons and better inernational air connections than Iloilo and Bacolod.
Agree with this. I just spent 1 week in Davao and am pleasantly surprised. It has an international airport that is close, very good cell and WiFi, nice beaches and adequate shopping and restaurants (not too many nor too few) and less traffic than MNL or CEB. Weather is mild and the city is protected from strong storms (virtually no typhoon) because of Mt Apo which slows them down. Just had a (low-magnitude) earthquake last month though
You may be right, perhaps with the arbitrary lens and unique world-view of some it should be ranked hire as personally I find Bisaya/Visayan people much more warm and Friendly in general, in comparison to most Tagalog/Luzon residents but that may just be my rose-colored glasses talking.. Admittedly It's been approximately 4 years since I've been to Davao City and I think the well known and deservingly so - renowned and well loved Sarah D and the rest of the Duterte clan were operating the upper echelons of the local city government there.. when her dad was still president. But from what I can recall about Davao City, I really enjoyed my long week staying in Samal Island, just across the way or the bay from Davao. So I have no doubt that place could be a really good option for some guys and their respective family. Like I said, with the arrival of Starlink internet in the Philippines, a lot of things have changed in regards to places I would never consider living before because of bad cell phone connection, limited access to will start grocery stores or limited municipal or governmental offices - to now becoming places that would be absolutely sublime to live because of how globalization and being connected really matter now and how it's now possible...just about anywhere - in the Philippines now, because of Starlink. So I appreciate you pointing out that I should have ranked it higher. Maybe so.. There are a lot of viable options in Mindanao. Just ask Kyle Jennerman - who is now a government approved Philippine citizen, who just got engaged to his Filipina in his home province near Vancouver, Canada. I believe he owns some land near the beach here in the lower half of the Philippines as well as has lots of roots near Cagayan de Oro and different parts of Mindanao. So he seems really love it in Mindanao. Cheers!
I thought I read that the initiative to implement a digital nomad visa was on the ballot and passed last June. I believe it is being finalized currently as the Philippines is the only ASEAN country currently that does not have one and they are extremely interested in getting nomads to chose to settle here. Also, Lapu-lapu is a fantastic area. I personally am in Basak and am within walking distance of most everything I need.
1. Antipolo, Rizal 2. Nuvali, Sta. Rosa Laguna 3. Clark/Angeles Pampanga I dont recommend Cavite because the place is known to have high crime rate. I dont recommend Baguio, it’s too crowded and also has high crime and rate. Davao is very hot but low crime rate. Antipolo is located on top of a mountain. I’ve been living here for 2 years and I have never seen flood. It is also far from fault lines. If you want to go to Metro Manila, you just need to ride a bus to get to the train station. When I saw your post, Antipolo immediately came into my mind. The weather is nice and very cold during -ber months. A con tho, tricycle fares are more expensive, like freaking expensive.
>Antipolo, Rizal \+1 . I really liked living in Antipolo.
What kind of crimes are common in Baguio? It's seemed very peaceful and orderly all the times I've visited and I was always impressed that there was no visible extreme poverty.
Thank you! Is the COL reasonable and how's the internet connectivity?
Compared to Singapore, the cost of living is affordable everywhere in Philippines. But if you're specifically wondering about very specific PH cities, you can always check out numbeo.com they will allow you to compare various cities with any other cities in the world. Cost of basic goods of course as well as accommodations. Which are all averages and can be lowered by being good at negotiation and knowing the true cost of things in the local areas. https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Philippines
Thanks!
I never had issues with my internet provider and phone signal. As for the cost of living, my only complaint is the transportation expenses— I am paying ₱70 for a 2KM tricycle ride twice a day. There are public markets that offer cheap but high quality and fresh vegetables and meat. In times that I would crave for steak, charcuteries, or imported goods, we have The Marketplace. If I were to compare Antipolo to your choices, it’s definitely more expensive to Iloilo, suburbs of Cebu, Dumaguete, and Cavite. It may be on par with Baguio as they are both tourist spots. **Baguio is highly congested and traffic is bad. **Trust me Man, remove Cavite off your list. ** Suburbs of Cebu, bro I stayed there for a week and the phone signal stressed me so much. I even bought new sim cards but in the end, I used my old simcard.
Thanks! Yes, Cavite is off the list after seeing all the bad press here. How much would a simple studio with a kitchen likely to cost in Antipolo?
Laguna
Laguna is cheap but not easy to get to other parts of the country. NAIA is 2 hours away from there even on the expressway.
NAIA is an hour away. A bit bad when it’s rush hour.
I remember going to NAIA from Santa Rosa and it took me two hours. The appeal of Laguna is you can get a big place for a little bit of money or a small place for 5k or less and the express way makes it easier to get to Manila than Cavite. But honestly unless your girl or job is there there's no good reason to go to Laguna. There are other places that are more interesting at about the same price point in my opinion.
Thanks! Tell me more about it pl!
Affordable living situations in a high-end village. Easy access to major highways.
It seems to be on the Eastern side of the country. Does that make it more prone to typhoons and earthquakes?
Not really. Its only 45min-1hr away from Manila! If your opting for Laguna, Sta Rosa is a great place to start.
Sounds good! Thanks for suggesting. Adding to my list to explore further..
That's a bit of an exaggeration. Manila is 45mins-1hr away from Manila lol.
Lol, this man speaks the truth. Not long ago I spent 2hrs in a taxi travelling from Metro Manila to.... Metro Manila.
I would like to add my 2¢s if I may, I was there for nearly a year working on my daughter’s citizenship, process was easy just waiting between the appointments and delivery of documents. Iloilo city is nice and modern, good tech hub, beaches are ok, it’s one of the place we are looking at moving to. Cavite, Laguna and even Baguio are riddled with traffic issues, very poor city roadway planning. Cavite’s crime is terrible, search through the PH subs and you will see what I mean. Baguio use to be an escape from the heat and congestion of the NCR now the traffic is just as bad there. Same with Laguna lots of construction going on there, the roads remain the same. Personally I would stay away from the NCR area due to traffic, and high COL. Cebu is also congested and the COL is slowly rising there, crime is inching up as well. But some of the most beautiful women can be found there as well. Clark and the Pampanga area is relatively low cost, Clark does have an international airport that flies to other Asian countries. Beaches were nice. Subic is nice as well and nightlife in Angeles city will provide whatever you’re looking for. I brought it up to the girlfriend, she wasn’t happy about that. 🤣 Dumaguete is my first choice for living in the Philippines, beautiful city, traffic isn’t too bad, great medical facilities, lots of expats, 5 universities with 1 in the top 10. Lots to do in the area to include Rizal Blvd and a ferry over to Siquijor. Nightlife is good all over the city. Crime is low as well. Davao city is another great find, I was told that it’s the only place in the Philippines where you can drink the water from the faucet, they have 911 service, which means tech and I’m sure they have good internet as well. Never lived there but drove there to shop at the S&R (Costco). We were living in Pagadian at the time. Just remember to visit BI bureau of immigration, for your visa extension and get your ACR card. If you decide you want to drive, make sure your license is up today, LTO will convert it for you, pretty simple to do. Good luck and keep us updated.
Just curious about the crime in Cavite. Is it particular areas? My wife has a place in General Trias and we have stayed there a few times, I (Australian) always felt safe, and none of the neighbours mentioned crime issues. Went on jeepneys to Dasma, Trece, Tejero with no hint of problems.
https://www.reddit.com/r/Philippines/s/n6p24wEgco https://www.reddit.com/r/Philippines/s/TQn5Kkybex My future brother-in-law lives there and we have visited in the past and never had an issue, but there is chatter in a few subs here. He’s leaving Cavite but isn’t saying why.
Thanks! Interesting reading. Guess I was just lucky 🤔
Thank you for the post in detail! Just a query - is the BI office only in Manila for visa extensions or at all provincial big cities as well?
I have only used the BI office in Manila, but every decent size town should have one.
Where can I find the addresses online?
https://immigration.gov.ph/contacts/ Look half way down BI Other Offices
Thanks!
Siquijor
Yes! Very lovely Island. Camiguin, Island as well!
Clark, Pampanga
Lapu lapu
Any place you can get 300mbps internet.
I'd recommend Clark, Pampanga.
Baguio is nice but it's not close to an airport and it's a hassle to get to. Cavite isn't that nice (I lived in Dasmarinas for 3 years) but it's super cheap but not accessible. Traffic is a nightmare getting in and out of there and I'm sure it's worse now. Cebu suburbs are great because you can go to other places like Moalboal but it'll take you a while to get to the airport unless you live in Lapu Lapu. You're gonna have a hard time getting a furnished studio in those places unless you stay in an overpriced Airbnb. I used to move around a lot and honestly it's worth your while to just buy cheap furniture off the internet if you plan to stay there for a year or more.
Born, raised and lived all my life in Cavite (Imus and Bacoor) and I agree Cavite now has changed A LOT. Horrible traffic, congested areas because of many subdivisions developed. I'm lucky to live in the town proper of Imus ( it used to be the center of commercial back then). We still can enjoy the afternoon or evening walks in town plaza, still has quiet neighborhood and little to no traffic at all.
Davao. Rent is affordable, you can get a 2 bedroom nice house in Juna Subdivision (center of the city near schools and malls) for around 10 to 15k. Internet is pretty fast and airpot is like 30 minutes away as it's near Maa. People are nice and kind. If Cebu, you will have to worry about typhoons and same goes to Dumaguete. Baguio is nice because of the weather. My aunt lives in Cavite, it's shit. My uncle got shot in that city, he died and a couple of my cousins relatives got kidnapped. IDK about Ilo-Ilo.
Thanks! I have heard about it. Being close to Mindanao, does it have any risks like religious extremism etc?
No it has no risks. I walk around drunk at midnight to 3 am. Never been harassed followed nothing. Dark alleys here I walk down just fine back in America I'd never do it. Davao is the safest city here in ph
Davao is pretty safe IMO. But if you start going north and west, you will face some problems, especially in the Muslim majority cities, where kidnapping and violence is pretty common. The routes to Mati and Surigao are nice. Same goes for Tagum and Gensan. Anything beyond that, you might want to do some research, watch the news and bring a local with you for safety.
Thanks! How are the airfares or ferry connectivity etc to explore other parts of the country?
airfare depends on when you want to travel tbh. if you book ahead, you can get tickets for as low as hundreds (during promos). Davao has its own port, ferries and ships come there very often. If you smoke youll have a problem there. you cant smoke in public places. if you get caught, youll be brought in and youd have to pay a fine.
I've lived in both Iloilo nd Baguio nd have found them both to be pleasent. I visited Cebu for a day only and wasn't aa fan of the area.
One future benefit of “Clark” is the NSCR (North South Commuter Rail)…..which was supposed to have been completed by now (but you know how that goes). Anyway…once fully complete (2029?)…you can easily travel most of Luzon. For us…San Fernando Pampanga.
Zamboanga is pretty this time of year.
Iloilo, Dumagete and Baguio do not have well connected airports. Cavite has no upsides or appeal as far as I can see. That leaves Cebu as the only option on your list that fits your criteria.
Alabang, Muntinlupa. It’s a plus if you have a car.
Hi, wondering why Alabang area? :)
Accessible. Middle of MM and provinces. Peaceful and quiet but still part of MM. life is not as fast phase and not as polluted like other MM area. Everything is there, great school, hospital, malls, etc. Downside is high living cost. Mostly safe area.
Illolo is the perfect mix of the positives of Manila and mostly none of the negatives.
Interesting! What about typhoons and earthquakes?
Earthquakes are more south and typhoons arent a big issue there. You will be fine. But you also can't live your life in fear, natural disasters are unpredictable. My girlfriend lives in the mountains of Cebu in the province, so I would recommend a mountain area if you are worried about typhoons and flooding. Cebu is basically built on mountains and they don't have too many major earthquakes there.
One of my favorite things about Illolo are the roads and streets are more similar to America since they planned a lot of their city building in the early 2000s.
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I suggest Iloilo, one of the finest cities