General Info

[QUOTE=Tyrion82;1582378]I heard some great stories about DIA, but I have no idea how it works. Can someone give me the basics of how to obtain a P4 P from the DIA website?

I will be leaving for the Phils in a few days and more than happy to report any information and experiences including any pimpettes I meet.[/QUOTE]Ask who is playing 25 times to 25 hot pics and 5 will say yes, 5 will say maybe but you won't understand, 5 will say fuck off and the other 10 will fuck you but yo you won't know how to close that deal so stick with the 5 that say yes!

P.S. Don't send money, and don't make them travel more than 1 hour!

PP.

They all have reading lights but A321's are wired with video screen at each seat.

While the 2 planes are very close in size and weight, B737-900 ER uses 2 GE turbo fans with about 55,000 lbs thrust, the A321-200 uses 2 Pratt-Whitney / Rolls Royce engines with 66,000 lbs thrust that supposedly burn about 5% less fuel. It's hard to believe Pratt&Whitney can make engines that much better. That extra performance must incur extra costs in either initial price or maintenance. With the same weight and 22% more thrust, the A321 will fly faster.

A321-200 sold 4 times B737-900 must be because they are cheaper to lease and to operate. Governments do give subsidies in development and financing to help sell planes.

Airbus jets are all fly-by-wire. Their cockpits layouts may be somewhat similar but system controls and responses are different from plane to plane. Pilot still have to have type certificate in each plane they fly.

My main beef with Airbus is their structure designs are known to be weaker than Boeing's. With all the weight savings using fly-by-wire system, their tails' designs are not strong enough. There have been Airbuses that lost rudders in turbulence and crashed.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1583387]Luke. You lost the plot when you said cabin feature as reason for Airbus sales, did you mean like the reading lights and all? LOL.

And among others cockpit familiarity is a reason for airlines to go Air bus. Technically a pilot trained in 320 330 or 340 or 380 is able to fly other planes with minimal conversion,. And that's a plus point for Airbus other than the fact they make planes cheaper.

And China has been assembling 320's for some time.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1583488]

[QUOTE]Quote Originally Posted by LukeSkywalker
On long international flights, I usually drink beers / wines non-stop, as much and as quickly as the flight attendants can bring me hehe. Then I walk around the plane to the boys' rooms and to check out other girls and flight attendants. I would also hang out I the galley pretending to do sit up so I can get down low to check out the young flight attendants' legs and crotches. If they shoo me out I would say I have doctors' order to exercise hehehe..
[/QUOTE]
Ikksman / Robbaf,
This is why all airlines carry restraints.
Am sure you are a wonderful passenger to be with Luke, I can feel my thumbs twitching now as I write LOL.[/QUOTE]LOL. Good to know that I won't have to pack my own duct tape and plastic ties in my carry-on, in case he is a passenger on the same flight.

Cheers.

[QUOTE=LukeSkywalker;1583181]We call them the cattle trucks.

On long international flights, I usually drink beers / wines non-stop, as much and as quickly as the flight attendants can bring me hehe.

It is highly recommended for people over 40's to hydrate and do exercises during long flights, to prevent "Deep Vein Thrombosis," which is blood clots in your legs' veins due to long periods of sitting inactivity. Hehe.[/QUOTE]Those airlines call themselves "no thrills no frills" .

Alcohol doesn't do any good to beat de-hydration so there is a big contradiction. Leave the health recommendations to the professionals, better.

The good say "don't drink and drive" sometime should apply in a different way to those having difficulties to drive: "just drink don't drive", but that is another story.

I thought the original post was a bit funny. Hope the two of you can figure out how to stop the name calling. X.

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1583221]Would I be correct in assuming that, even with minimally configured aircraft, they would still carry restraint kits to deal with stupid, drunken, adolescent twits, who annoy passengers and molest or disrupt the duties of crew members?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=LukeSkywalker;1583603]They all have reading lights but A321's are wired with video screen at each seat. [/QUOTE]Amazing advantage for Airbus. Wonder why my Philippine Airlines flights on 321 didn't have such screens. I am sad now.

[QUOTE]While the 2 planes are very close in size and weight, B737-900 ER uses 2 GE turbo fans with about 55,000 lbs thrust, the A321-200 uses 2 Pratt-Whitney / Rolls Royce engines with 66,000 lbs thrust that supposedly burn about 5% less fuel. It's hard to believe Pratt&Whitney can make engines that much better. That extra performance must incur extra costs in either initial price or maintenance. With the same weight and 22% more thrust, the A321 will fly faster. [/QUOTE]Amazing stuff. No wonder Boeing is shutting down soon. I guess.

[QUOTE]My main beef with Airbus is their structure designs are known to be weaker than Boeing's. With all the weight savings using fly-by-wire system, their tails' designs are not strong enough. There have been Airbuses that lost rudders in turbulence and crashed.[/QUOTE]Unsafe planes are deadly. Now I am Philippines and all flight back to Singapore are on one or another version of Airbus. Including SIA. Can you save me?

Or do I have to swim back to Singapore?

[QUOTE=XMan;1583754]I thought the original post was a bit funny. Hope the two of you can figure out how to stop the name calling. X.[/QUOTE]Agreed. Temporary blackout on my part!

Cheers X.

Hard liquours may have chemicals that may poison your body if taken in large amount, but major-brand beers are mostly water with not much chemicals.

It's all about how your body adapt to various chemicals used in brewing or distilling.

I have drunk so much beers of so many crazy brands all over the world, that my body developed resistance to adverse reactions to any chemicals used in beers brewing process. For me nothing quenches my thirst better than a few cold beers. The beers' minerals just help hydrating all my organs and muscles faster and in the most satisfying ways.

I was sitting in the afternoon heat at a grimy table at a chicken BBQ place on Fields Ave in AC, eating their broiled chicken, washing down with cold San Miguels, thinking foods and drinks just would not get any better than that.

But I am 100% against drinking and driving, or much worse, piloting planes. High altitudes can make alcohol effects far more severe than at ground level. Paramount Pictures recently distributed a movie "Flight," wherein the captain, played by Denzel Washington, allegedly took cocaine hits and downed 4 small Vodka bottles in the cockpit before he managed to save his wildly out-of-control plane.

That's a lot of stupid bullshit, bordering on criminal intent for box office money, on the part of Paramount Pictures. Any airlines' accidents in the future can make Paramount Pictures partially liable of losses.

[QUOTE=BionicMan;1583721] Alcohol doesn't do any good to beat de-hydration so there is a big contradiction. Leave the health recommendations to the professionals, better.

The good say "don't drink and drive" sometime should apply in a different way to those having difficulties to drive: "just drink don't drive", but that is another story.[/QUOTE]

On my last arrival into T3 with Cebu Air Pacific the arrival hall was loaded with people tagged "us embassy". They went around scoping for something and with first eye contact they "how are you sir". Felt kind of creepy as I was amongst the first into the rather empty baggaclaim area (except from 20 or so US Embassy tagged persons). While waiting for luggage on the belt these gauy and girls mixed in with the crowd and just kept eyebowling their "victims". What was all this about, I am not a US citizen, but still felt kreeped up by all the looks. Do the US have authority on phil soil as well? I was lucky to get my bag rather early and no questions were beeing asked but they were also present infront of the custom booths. They were on the look for something. I got the hell out of there as I don't feel connected to the US (great country and everything) and I atleast not feel I have to answer to the US gvmnt in anyway as I carry a diff citizenship.

If you are flying PAL into terminal 2, do not take just any taxi. My usual practice is to go out the door, up the stairs to the departure area, and take a metered taxi that just dropped off passengers. This time the stairway was barricaded, and security was standing there. WTF?? While looking for metered taxi, some guy approached me and offered his services. I followed him to a stand where he showed me the "official" price of P1600 to Makati. I said no thanks, and found the yellow metered taxi stand. Instead of "flagdrop" price of P40, the yellow airport taxis start at P70. Not bad.

[QUOTE=MrHawaii;1585080]If you are flying PAL into terminal 2, do not take just any taxi. My usual practice is to go out the door, up the stairs to the departure area, and take a metered taxi that just dropped off passengers. This time the stairway was barricaded, and security was standing there. WTF?? While looking for metered taxi, some guy approached me and offered his services. I followed him to a stand where he showed me the "official" price of P1600 to Makati. I said no thanks, and found the yellow metered taxi stand. Instead of "flagdrop" price of P40, the yellow airport taxis start at P70. Not bad.[/QUOTE]Last week my arrival was at 2 am, I booked a airport pickup for 1,000 from T2 to Pasay victory.

As expected when arrived all yellow taxis were MIA and Touts were offering 2500 .

I still felt happy to tip the Blue Horizon Travel pickup 1000 plus 200 tip.

World class airport? Noooo.

On another weekday arrival at 6 pm, the yellow taxis were MIA and since I wasn't in a rush I queue'd and waited till 8 pm to get a yellow taxi, though the luxury taxis were too many.

Meter 200 vs Touts 2000 .

Mafia operation in work.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1584667]On my last arrival into T3 with Cebu Air Pacific the arrival hall was loaded with people tagged "us embassy". They went around scoping for something and with first eye contact they "how are you sir". Felt kind of creepy as I was amongst the first into the rather empty baggaclaim area (except from 20 or so US Embassy tagged persons). While waiting for luggage on the belt these gauy and girls mixed in with the crowd and just kept eyebowling their "victims". What was all this about, I am not a US citizen, but still felt kreeped up by all the looks. Do the US have authority on phil soil as well? I was lucky to get my bag rather early and no questions were beeing asked but they were also present infront of the custom booths. They were on the look for something. I got the hell out of there as I don't feel connected to the US (great country and everything) and I atleast not feel I have to answer to the US gvmnt in anyway as I carry a diff citizenship.[/QUOTE]That's downright creepy.

I'm moving this over from the Angeles thread.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1585604]Sammon,

Some additional information for you to show you that she was being scammed etc is from the Gulf News in the UAE that ran a half page article about Filipina maids and visas, as the minimum wage is $400, with a day off each week plus protection. The is a 'dispute' between the 2 countries on the contracts and many bemoan the fact that Filipina maids are not available because "less the least trouble and have the best grasp of English".

The fact that other nations are banning maids to the Middle East tells you a lot about why the girls want to work for western not Arab or Indian families in the region.

So if you are in contact with the person let her know, as DH work in the Middle East for a local family especially is not recommended.

Seems IJM not really care about those people even though many reports of bad treatment (ILO did a report a few years ago for example).

Here is the link.

[URL]http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/employment/hiring-filipino-maids-in-uae-just-got-tougher-1.1351275[/URL][/QUOTE]There are lots of similar reports about recruiters sending workers to Canada. A copy of a contract that meets government requirements is presented to immigration at the time the worker applies for a visa. The worker is only given a second contract with a lower wage that the employer tries to commit the worker to on arrival in Canada.

On that note, if you are aware of workers in the midst of applying for visas to work in Canada they should be very cautious. Last week the government imposed changes on the foreign worker program that make the restrictions of some middle east countries seem almost humanitarian. Many of the applications submitted by employers before the changes are being returned to the applicant business owners unprocessed.

OFWs should be checking with the Canadian Consulate directly to make sure there really is a legitimate offer of employment. I'm sure with the latest restrictions the recruiters will be working overtime to continue generating income.

[URL]http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/kenney-defends-top-to-bottom-overhaul-of-temporary-foreign-worker-program-1.1880699[/URL]

The US embassies worldwide employ a lot of local people to do varieties of work for them, usually indirectly through local employment agencies, to process visas, investigate backgrounds, maids, cooks, gardeners, janitors etc.

There are no reasons to be afraid of employees fo the US Embassies. On contrary you can hire lawyers to sue for large money anyone in employment with the US government for criminal or civil liabilities if they mistreat you in any ways. The US government would rather pay for settlements rather than paying their expensive lawyers or risk exposing personal or official info about embassy's personnel during litigation, like how many pinays the ambassador was screwing on the side etc.

In this specific case, not knowing more details, I suspect these people were low-paid, clerical workers who were assigned to meet and transport a group of inbound passengers to their living quarters.

US security personnel. Like the Secret Service, usually wear dark suits, eye shades, with earphones in their ears. If they inconvenience or damage you in anyway, yuo can have your lawyers send your claims to Mr. Barrack Obama, the Whitehouse, Pennsylvania Ave. , Washington DC.

I heard the Venzuelan prostitute in Cartagena got a very good offer from someone to hush up from babbling how the US Secret Service guys were a bunch of bumbling amateurs with tiny limp dicks. Hehe.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1584667]On my last arrival into T3 with Cebu Air Pacific the arrival hall was loaded with people tagged "us embassy". They went around scoping for something and with first eye contact they "how are you sir". Felt kind of creepy as I was amongst the first into the rather empty baggaclaim area (except from 20 or so US Embassy tagged persons). While waiting for luggage on the belt these gauy and girls mixed in with the crowd and just kept eyebowling their "victims". What was all this about, I am not a US citizen, but still felt kreeped up by all the looks. Do the US have authority on phil soil as well? I was lucky to get my bag rather early and no questions were beeing asked but they were also present infront of the custom booths. They were on the look for something. I got the hell out of there as I don't feel connected to the US (great country and everything) and I atleast not feel I have to answer to the US gvmnt in anyway as I carry a diff citizenship.[/QUOTE]

Below is a good example how Devyani_Khobragade, an Indian diplomat, used fake employment contract and making false statements on visa application to underpay foreign workers in her employment:

[URL]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devyani_Khobragade_incident[/URL]

I suspect Canada would view the exploitation of foreign workers in similar light.

[QUOTE=Amanut;1585849]I'm moving this over from the Angeles thread.

There are lots of similar reports about recruiters sending workers to Canada. A copy of a contract that meets government requirements is presented to immigration at the time the worker applies for a visa. The worker is only given a second contract with a lower wage that the employer tries to commit the worker to on arrival in Canada.

On that note, if you are aware of workers in the midst of applying for visas to work in Canada they should be very cautious. Last week the government imposed changes on the foreign worker program that make the restrictions of some middle east countries seem almost humanitarian. Many of the applications submitted by employers before the changes are being returned to the applicant business owners unprocessed.

OFWs should be checking with the Canadian Consulate directly to make sure there really is a legitimate offer of employment. I'm sure with the latest restrictions the recruiters will be working overtime to continue generating income.

[URL]http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/kenney-defends-top-to-bottom-overhaul-of-temporary-foreign-worker-program-1.1880699[/URL][/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=LukeSkywalker;1585869]The US embassies worldwide employ a lot of local people to do varieties of work for them, usually indirectly through local employment agencies, to process visas, investigate backgrounds, maids, cooks, gardeners, janitors etc.

There are no reasons to be afraid of employees fo the US Embassies. On contrary you can hire lawyers to sue for large money anyone in employment with the US government for criminal or civil liabilities if they mistreat you in any ways. The US government would rather pay for settlements rather than paying their expensive lawyers or risk exposing personal or official info about embassy's personnel during litigation, like how many pinays the ambassador was screwing on the side etc.

In this specific case, not knowing more details, I suspect these people were low-paid, clerical workers who were assigned to meet and transport a group of inbound passengers to their living quarters.

US security personnel. Like the Secret Service, usually wear dark suits, eye shades, with earphones in their ears. If they inconvenience or damage you in anyway, yuo can have your lawyers send your claims to Mr. Barrack Obama, the Whitehouse, Pennsylvania Ave. , Washington DC.

I heard the Venzuelan prostitute in Cartagena got a very good offer from someone to hush up from babbling how the US Secret Service guys were a bunch of bumbling amateurs with tiny limp dicks. Hehe.[/QUOTE]What uttter basura this is.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1585529]Last week my arrival was at 2 am, I booked a airport pickup for 1,000 from T2 to Pasay victory.

As expected when arrived all yellow taxis were MIA and Touts were offering 2500 .

I still felt happy to tip the Blue Horizon Travel pickup 1000 plus 200 tip.

World class airport? Noooo.

On another weekday arrival at 6 pm, the yellow taxis were MIA and since I wasn't in a rush I queue'd and waited till 8 pm to get a yellow taxi, though the luxury taxis were too many.

Meter 200 vs Touts 2000 .

Mafia operation in work.[/QUOTE]Those prices you're quoting are shocking. I agree the yellows are rarely around. I've used a private driver or family for a long time. To hear these prices it seems things are deteriorating at NAIA. Its always been the case that a savy traveler could save a lot of money by RTFF but this seems out of control.

AV.

I don't mind telling this story because I have only met one of you. Was staying at Pan Pacific Hotel last week, and I needed a few items laundered. Too cheap to send to hotel laundry, so I walked my few items next door. Go out the lobby, turn left. The first shop is a money changer (whose rates are not good), and the second shop is Fa'eza Wash Stop. That is where I left my laundry. Cost me 120 pesos.

Was happy to finish that chore. Go back to my room, take a nice bath, put on the hotel robe, take short nap. Wake up, time to get ready to go out. I look for wallet. Look in safe for wallet. No wallet. WTF? Then it dawned on me. I left my wallet in the back pocket of the shorts I took to the cleaners. I seldom carry my wallet with me, usually leaving it in the safe. Of course your mind races. Inside my wallet were 2 credit cards, and a photocopy of my driver's license, and $30 USD.

I threw on shorts, sandals, shirt, and walked rather briskly to the cleaners. I tried to show no concern as I entered the store. The girl at the front desk smiled and asked me, "Would you like your wallet, sir?" I checked it out, everything was intact, and I gave them enough to buy dinner that night.

Now, if you leave your wallet in a taxi, . Different story. Be careful, be safe.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1584667]On my last arrival into T3 with Cebu Air Pacific the arrival hall was loaded with people tagged "us embassy". They went around scoping for something and with first eye contact they "how are you sir". Felt kind of creepy as I was amongst the first into the rather empty baggaclaim area (except from 20 or so US Embassy tagged persons). While waiting for luggage on the belt these gauy and girls mixed in with the crowd and just kept eyebowling their "victims". What was all this about, I am not a US citizen, but still felt kreeped up by all the looks. Do the US have authority on phil soil as well? I was lucky to get my bag rather early and no questions were beeing asked but they were also present infront of the custom booths. They were on the look for something. I got the hell out of there as I don't feel connected to the US (great country and everything) and I atleast not feel I have to answer to the US gvmnt in anyway as I carry a diff citizenship.[/QUOTE]Today, I heard DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson say that Homeland Security was going to give foreign airports that have direct flights to the US extra scrutiny because of what's been happening in Syria and Iraq. Although he was a little vague, it has something to do with the foreign fighters entering Syria and Iraq with either US or European passports.

This was in our local travel news today in Australia:

The United States said on Wednesday it would increase security at overseas airports with nonstop flights to the country and US officials cited concerns al Qaeda operatives in Syria and Yemen were developing bombs that could be smuggled onto planes.

The new security measures would be required at airports in Europe, Africa and the Middle East that have direct flights, the US officials said on condition of anonymity.

The Department of Homeland Security said "enhanced security measures" would be implemented in the next few days at "certain overseas airports with direct flights into the United States".

It did not specify which airports or what countries would be affected, nor did it say what triggered the extra precautions.

"We are sharing recent and relevant information with our foreign allies and are consulting the aviation industry," DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson said in a statement.

Johnson said he directed the Transportation Security Administration to implement the measures in the coming days. The move comes during the summer travel season and days before the July 4 holiday.

A US official said some of the new measures would involve additional inspections of passengers' shoes and property.

The official said Washington had legal authority to enforce new security requirements on foreign governments or airports because the flights go directly to the United States.

Earlier, law enforcement and security officials said the United States and European authorities were discussing measures that could include installation of additional bomb-detection machines.

Bombmakers from the Nusra Front, al Qaeda's affiliate in Syria, and Yemen-based Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, or AQAP, are believed to be working together to try to develop explosives that could avoid detection by current airport screening systems, US national security sources said.

The main concern is that militant groups could try to blow up US- or Europe-bound planes by concealing bombs on foreign fighters carrying Western passports who spent time with Islamist rebel factions in the region, the sources said.

AQAP has a track record of plotting such attacks. It was behind a 2009 attempt by a militant with a bomb hidden in his underwear to blow up a Detroit-bound airliner.

There was no immediate indication US intelligence had detected a specific plot or time frame for carrying out an attack.

US officials believe Nusra and AQAP operatives have carried out operational testing of new bomb designs in Syria, where Nusra is one of the main Islamist groups fighting to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad, a national security source said.

The "stealth" explosives the bombmakers are trying to design include non-metallic bombs, ABC News in US reported.

But officials are especially worried that the recent battlefield successes of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant, or ISIL, an al Qaeda splinter group, have drawn a growing number of militants from America and Europe to the jihadist cause and they would have easy access to flights headed for American cities.

Reuters.

Read more: [URL]http://www.smh.com.au/travel/travel-planning/travel-news/us-increases-security-measures-at-overseas-airports-amid-bomb-concerns-20140703-3b9kj.html[/URL]#ixzz36 ObKAPAH.

Hello friends.

Any one having luck with the DIA website? Please let me know.

Cheers.

A158.

[QUOTE=A158;1590174]Hello friends.

Any one having luck with the DIA website? Please let me know.

Cheers.

A158.[/QUOTE]Over the last 10 years or so I have no exact numbers on how many Dia contacts I have shagged but we are talking in hundreds. Recent years I have moved my business elsewhere but have allways kept half an eye to Dia as well to scope for decent to stunning Makatibased spinners. Now you know.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1590180]Over the last 10 years or so I have no exact numbers on how many Dia contacts I have shagged but we are talking in hundreds. Recent years I have moved my business elsewhere but have allways kept half an eye to Dia as well to scope for decent to stunning Makatibased spinners. Now you know.[/QUOTE]So just for my information, most of the ones you shagged are really looking for a BF or a sugar daddy? Right? I think I am approaching it wrong. I'm asking too many questions and also asking for photos etc. Any hints with these Asian women will be appreciated.

Cheers.

A158.

[QUOTE=A158;1590174]Hello friends.

Any one having luck with the DIA website? Please let me know.

Cheers.

A158.[/QUOTE]After being on there for approx 1.5 years and meeting many girls I was booted. After making a new account and posting my profile, which was exactly the same as the one I used for that 1.5 years, I was booted again in less than 2 minutes. This suggests to me that they implemented new keyword filters to scrutinise the profiles and perhaps the messages. Take care with the words you use in your profile; I was crystal clear describing what I was looking for and I surmise this was my undoing. Anyway, no great tragedy as I was using other sites more.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1590301]After being on there for approx 1.5 years and meeting many girls I was booted. After making a new account and posting my profile, which was exactly the same as the one I used for that 1.5 years, I was booted again in less than 2 minutes. This suggests to me that they implemented new keyword filters to scrutinise the profiles and perhaps the messages. Take care with the words you use in your profile; I was crystal clear describing what I was looking for and I surmise this was my undoing. Anyway, no great tragedy as I was using other sites more.[/QUOTE]Even if you use a VPN, clear your cookies and even flash cookies, you are still able to be identified (or more accurately, the computer and software that you are using). COTS software can readily be purchased that can uniquely identify you.

Perhaps, DIA is using this type of software.

Cheers.

P.S. Even more sophisticated software exists that builds profiles that are able to identify you even when using multiple computers. In China, authorities are integrating these software capabilities with CCTV imaging technologies to create even more powerful identification and tracking capabilities. This and related technologies are not commercially available except to government departments in China and selected 'friendly' countries.

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1590330]Even if you use a VPN, clear your cookies and even flash cookies, you are still able to be identified (or more accurately, the computer and software that you are using). COTS software can readily be purchased that can uniquely identify you.

Perhaps, DIA is using this type of software.

Cheers.
[/QUOTE]It is a possibility. The reason is believe it was due to forbidden words is I was able to create the new account, receive the verification email, provide my mobile, receive the SMS message with the validation code, enter that code, and then access my new and empty profile. Upon entering my text in the profile and saving it I was booted. Personally I don't know why DIA goes through the trouble. It isn't subscription based; girls quitting doesn't end a monthly, quarterly or yearly subscription. I can't imagine any ads on the site interest the girls, and if they did most of the girls don't have credit cards or paypay needed to participate in ecommerce. Can a bloke order a gift on DIA for a girl? I don't recall. How does the site make money? It's been a long while since I joined but I remember that new profiles were manually reviewed and approved by a real person. A couple of times I found my original profile had been edited significantly, so I re-added the missing text (not just words, but paragraphs) and was able to continue on without a consequence. Perhaps DIA let the profile-review staff go to reduce labour costs, replacing these workers with automation.

[quote=ikksman;1590330]. in china, authorities are integrating these software capabilities with cctv imaging technologies to create even more powerful identification and tracking capabilities. this and related technologies are not commercially available except to government departments in china .[/quote]thanks ikks. i really don't want to know this. i just like to have a nice quiet peaceful under the radar, mongering life.

i watch what i say to everyone on dia and am polite on all other sites.

but i'm sure the [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord134][CodeWord134][/url] ess bee know exactly who we are. where we are. where we go and who we are with.

life used to be so much easier. sigh.

I too am cautious about what I say on DIA. The other day I was chatting with what appeared to be a very attractive woman in Cebu who was not so subtly looking for assistance to supposedly apply for a job. We moved our conversation over to YM and the requests accelerated. She of course did not have a cam which sealed it for me. I reported her to DIA as asking for money is a strict no no on that site. They closed her profile within minutes. Under the messages we had exchanged in big bold red letters was written "banned".

The next time we chatted on YM she of course still did not have a cam, but told me she had closed her DIA profile as now that she had found me she was my one and only LOL. I blocked her on YM as well.

So be careful what you write on DIA as they react very quickly. I suspect the reverse could be true as well. It could likely only take a woman who has hurt feelings to make a frivolous complaint and your gone.

[QUOTE=Amanut;1590393]I too am cautious about what I say on DIA. The other day I was chatting with what appeared to be a very attractive woman in Cebu who was not so subtly looking for assistance to supposedly apply for a job. We moved our conversation over to YM and the requests accelerated. She of course did not have a cam which sealed it for me. I reported her to DIA as asking for money is a strict no no on that site. They closed her profile within minutes. Under the messages we had exchanged in big bold red letters was written "banned".

The next time we chatted on YM she of course still did not have a cam, but told me she had closed her DIA profile as now that she had found me she was my one and only LOL. I blocked her on YM as well.

So be careful what you write on DIA as they react very quickly. I suspect the reverse could be true as well. It could likely only take a woman who has hurt feelings to make a frivolous complaint and your gone.[/QUOTE]This is good advice. They seemed to have moved from allowing anything, to a rather over-reactive policy. I would recommend that if you have any contacts on there that you don't want to lose, make sure you have that information backed up somewhere else. Profiles can evaporate at a moment's notice.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1585930]Those prices you're quoting are shocking. I agree the yellows are rarely around. I've used a private driver or family for a long time. To hear these prices it seems things are deteriorating at NAIA. Its always been the case that a savy traveler could save a lot of money by RTFF but this seems out of control.

AV.[/QUOTE]Those prices are way up. I was in Manila last April and I got my ride from T2 700 plus 200 tip. The ride back to T2 a few days later was 700 and I tipped 500 to this driver, but he almost walked me all the way to the gate with my bags. LOL.

[QUOTE=TheDude865;1591247]Those prices are way up. I was in Manila last April and I got my ride from T2 700 plus 200 tip. The ride back to T2 a few days later was 700 and I tipped 500 to this driver, but he almost walked me all the way to the gate with my bags. LOL.[/QUOTE]My flight from the province to Manila arrived a few minutes early at 3:45 pm on Cebu Pacific (what terminal is that?) To avoid the yellow taxi mafia, I elevatored up to Level 3 (departures) and found the (80-meter long) white taxi line and fell in. There were lots of white taxi's, and signs saying "Be careful the white taxi's blah blah. " A 20-minute wait in the Manila heat made me kick myself for not ordering up the p600 hotel taxi from Makati. However, once inside the white metered taxi the driver asked if I wanted to take the p20 skyway and I told him yes. Once on the skyway I saw only one other vehicle going in my direction the entire way, and we zipped right along. Even after exiting the skyway, traffic was light (Sunday afternoon), only stopping us at the red lights. I think from the time I stepped into the taxi, to stepping out in front of the hotel, was a whopping 15 minutes. Cost on the meter? P120. Skyway add p20, so p140. Lovely! I handed him p200 and felt good about it. Admittedly at the airport I was tempted to offer him p350 to NOT bother with the meter.

Felt so good about saving the 150 that I walked myself over to Howzatt Sports Bar and got myself a beef / guiness pie and a beer. Cheers!

Ok. I RTFF and can't find information on travel from LAX to MNL. Searched for LAX, flights, etc, but shot blanks(...sorry for ostensibly disturbing metaphor).

So I'm just looking for seasoned expertise. Should I take the shorter and direct Philippine airlines at about $300 US more but 4 hours less or take the one stop approach? If the latter, any recommendations?

Thanks in advance.

PM.

[QUOTE=Poolmover;1591333]Ok. I RTFF and can't find information on travel from LAX to MNL. Searched for LAX, flights, etc, but shot blanks(...sorry for ostensibly disturbing metaphor).

So I'm just looking for seasoned expertise. Should I take the shorter and direct Philippine airlines at about $300 US more but 4 hours less or take the one stop approach? If the latter, any recommendations?

Thanks in advance.

PM.[/QUOTE]Have done both. The direct flight is not non-stop, it makes a 50-minute layover in Guam for fuel, and you are not allowed to get out of your seat during that time. I think this is the quickest route to Manila. Remember, you are flying PAL (People-Awful-Lazy). If you haven't flown PAL overseas before, its a bit like flying AeroMex (lower your expectations from the time you arrive at LAX).

I recommend any of the other 1-stop airlines (Cathay, Korean, Asiana, etc).

[QUOTE=Poolmover;1591333]Ok. I RTFF and can't find information on travel from LAX to MNL. Searched for LAX, flights, etc, but shot blanks(...sorry for ostensibly disturbing metaphor).

So I'm just looking for seasoned expertise. Should I take the shorter and direct Philippine airlines at about $300 US more but 4 hours less or take the one stop approach? If the latter, any recommendations?

Thanks in advance.

PM.[/QUOTE]Flew Honolulu to Manila for years on Korean Air, China Airlines, JAL. Sometimes I had to overnight in another country, then fly to MNL the next day. Then I found out that PAL first class was only double the economy class (not any longer). So, I started flying PAL first class HNL-MNL (direct, nonstop) and became spoiled because PAL has its own international terminal, and when you are in first class you are first out of the plane and first in line for immigration. Since I only have carry-on I am usually outside within 5 minutes of landing. Other carriers will take you to a different terminal, and you will wait with all other international passengers to go through immigration, etc. So, which do you value the most? Your time or your money? Like the girls say, "is up to you".

[QUOTE=TheDude865;1591247]Those prices are way up. I was in Manila last April and I got my ride from T2 700 plus 200 tip. The ride back to T2 a few days later was 700 and I tipped 500 to this driver, but he almost walked me all the way to the gate with my bags. LOL.[/QUOTE]As I said the taxi mafia's control the traffic, and whenever a lot of planes land, most yellow cabs vanish or really they are under equipped to handle say 3 or 4 B747's arrival.

Knowing Philippines, I suspect the planning is not just there.

As I said, since I touched down past midnight, the 1000 plus for a agency pickup was worth it vs being held to ransom by the government sanctioned mafia.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1591340]Have done both. The direct flight is not non-stop, it makes a 50-minute layover in Guam for fuel, [/QUOTE]Must be new? I've been from Manila to LAX return in 2012 without a stop in Guam. 13 hours non-stop flight in 747.

[QUOTE=Ekspat;1591377]Must be new? I've been from Manila to LAX return in 2012 without a stop in Guam. 13 hours non-stop flight in 747.[/QUOTE]Not new.

On return flights, with cargo hold packed full of balikbayan boxes. PR is known to make a tech-stop in Guam, sometimes, on the return leg.

Outward leg is always non-stop.

With the 777-300 ERs they maybe able to do non-stop both ways.

[QUOTE=Ekspat;1591377]Must be new? I've been from Manila to LAX return in 2012 without a stop in Guam. 13 hours non-stop flight in 747.[/QUOTE]Is it possible it's non-stop going east but needs fueling in Guam going west? Flights between Atlanta or Detroit and Japan or Korea all take a couple hours longer going west than going east. I assume the Pacific tradewinds make the difference. The westward flight is bucking the westerlie tradewinds, whereas the eastbound flight benefits from a tailwind. So it needs more fuel on the westbound flight. Just a thought. If the plane were capable of doing the westward leg non-stop, I can't imagine they'd want to burn the extra fuel taking off from Guam.

[QUOTE=TheDude865;1591247]Those prices are way up. I was in Manila last April and I got my ride from T2 700 plus 200 tip. The ride back to T2 a few days later was 700 and I tipped 500 to this driver, but he almost walked me all the way to the gate with my bags. LOL.[/QUOTE]IMHO those are mad prices, tip 500? He would have walked you to the aircraft door if he could LOL.

Am with Westie. As long as the line is no too long (and wether not too hot) at T3 (that is where you arrived WC) I go upstairs.

But downstairs is still PHP 440 in the white cabs and I now select flights where I know the congestion is not too bad and I will get a cab quickly while ignoring the 'private' ones.

T2 seems to be totally screwed up and too many scammers given those prices.

Makati / Burgos via Skyway to T3 and T1 is between PHP 170-250 in my experience, much depends on time of day, day of week etc (eg Sunday at 3 am is very quick, Friday at 6 PM is madness).

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1591421]Is it possible it's non-stop going east but needs fueling in Guam going west? Flights between Atlanta or Detroit and Japan or Korea all take a couple hours longer going west than going east. I assume the Pacific tradewinds make the difference. The westward flight is bucking the westerlie tradewinds, whereas the eastbound flight benefits from a tailwind. So it needs more fuel on the westbound flight. Just a thought. If the plane were capable of doing the westward leg non-stop, I can't imagine they'd want to burn the extra fuel taking off from Guam.[/QUOTE]The last time I flew it was 2011 (never again -- I flew it to save time and about $100). The Guam layover is only on the westbound leg in the 747. It makes no sense to me, as the longbow 747 is capable of flying farther than Manila without refueling (they routinely fly from the US west coast to cities farther). OTOH, its PAL. Airlines sometimes make aircraft purchases on the cheap. A PAL 747 driver in Manila once shared with me some disturbing information about the equipment we had just flown: it was brand new (he was proud of that), but it was purchased minus several standard communications devices, with the intent of installing them later. When I shared this info later with a friend who is a former 747 pilot with a major american airline, he said to me: "I should say OMG that's dangerous. But, remember the source airline here. They do anything to save pesos. " Its fairly possible that at the time, PAL's east-west contingient of aircraft were purchased with smaller fuel bladders, etc. Flagship or not, its a budget airline.

Pool, I'll PM you.

[QUOTE=Ekspat;1591377]Must be new? I've been from Manila to LAX return in 2012 without a stop in Guam. 13 hours non-stop flight in 747.[/QUOTE]I've done the LAX to Manila flight on PAL a few times.

If it's the same from a few years ago, the LAX to Manila leg generally has a stopover in Guam for refueling, but if the flight is empty, it will skip it and go direct to Manila, since the flight will use less fuel rendering the refueling unnecessary. The Manila to LAX leg is non-stop.

[QUOTE=Poolmover;1591333]Should I take the shorter and direct Philippine airlines at about $300 US more but 4 hours less or take the one stop approach? If the latter, any recommendations?[/QUOTE]

Assuming you are looking at the China Airline option. I've also done that flight couple of times. You're spending approximately 8 hours total extra (2+6) to save $300. For comfort level, both economy seats were similar - they both suck. Too bad I don't fly business or first class. I usually consider how much per hour you save. If it is more than what I make per hour at my job, then I go cheap.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1591445]The last time I flew it was 2011 (never again -- I flew it to save time and about $100). The Guam layover is only on the westbound leg in the 747. It makes no sense to me, as the longbow 747 is capable of flying farther than Manila without refueling
SNIP[/QUOTE]Two other possible reasons for stopping at Guam: Disembarking of military / civilian support personnel and loading / unloading air freight.

[QUOTE=GreenBud;1591453] You're spending approximately 8 hours total extra (2+6) to save $300. For comfort level, both economy seats were similar - they both suck. Too bad I don't fly business or first class. I usually consider how much per hour you save. If it is more than what I make per hour at my job, then I go cheap.[/QUOTE]I calculate differently: $300.00 is currently about 13,000 php, which in turn roughly equals 5-7 LT bar fines in AC (twice as many ST's) or the same number of FL's from LAC. IMHO I'd sit an extra few hours and invest the savings into pussy.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1591471]Two other possible reasons for stopping at Guam: Disembarking of military / civilian support personnel and loading / unloading air freight.[/QUOTE]Took the flight several times (to save time). It never approached the terminal in Guam. It sits by itself, the av / gas trucks roll out to refuel. The pilot makes strict instruction before landing about not getting out of your seat, its important the plane be still during refueling, etc. Nobody moves. The refueling takes about 10 minutes, then the plane sits quietly for a while. You don't hear cargo doors moving. What I found interesting is that the:50 minute layover was exact, from wheels touching down to rotation, each time was at 50 minutes, like it was all planned ahead of time (I'm guessing that it is). It would be very easy to have taken off 10 minutes earlier each time, but we did not, we just sat on the tarmac, waiting. Its been several years since I took this flight, and PAL has newer aircraft in its fleet (A-330/340/ etc). Anyone taken the flight more recently?

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1591445]T,..Pool, I'll PM you.[/QUOTE]As I posted the tech stop is to refuel in view of cargo weight issues. Nothing to do with anything or military cargo, as on return leg they are regularly loaded to Max and uplift less fuel.

The 50 minutes wait is for brakes to cool, without which they won't take off.

Standard procedure for any airline.

I never heard LT skimping on safety. 'just my 2 cents.

Thank you all. Good insight.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1591767]Took the flight several times (to save time). It never approached the terminal in Guam. It sits by itself, the av / gas trucks roll out to refuel. The pilot makes strict instruction before landing about not getting out of your seat, its important the plane be still during refueling, etc. Nobody moves. The refueling takes about 10 minutes, then the plane sits quietly for a while. You don't hear cargo doors moving. What I found interesting is that the:50 minute layover was exact, from wheels touching down to rotation, each time was at 50 minutes, like it was all planned ahead of time (I'm guessing that it is). It would be very easy to have taken off 10 minutes earlier each time, but we did not, we just sat on the tarmac, waiting. Its been several years since I took this flight, and PAL has newer aircraft in its fleet (A-330/340/ etc). Anyone taken the flight more recently?[/QUOTE]Good news about PAL if you are travelling from the west coast. They are finally getting rid of the old 747's and have upgraded to 777's if you are travelling from either LAX or SFO. The reason this is important is the 777 is much more energy efficient and does not require refueling when travelling to MNL. It really is a direct flight now.

I have always flown Philippine Air which is a direct flight from Vancouver to Manila. I believe the flight connects from Las Vegas. It used to be that the 777 only flew Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, however my travel agent says all Vancouver to Manila flights are now 777.

The flight departs Vancouver at about midnight and arrives in Manila at about 05:30 which is great as there are no other flights arriving at that time so immigration clearance is quick and I can grab a to my hotel cab before rush hour.

[QUOTE=ScreamingBeaver;1592072]Good news about PAL if you are travelling from the west coast. They are finally getting rid of the old 747's and have upgraded to 777's if you are travelling from either LAX or SFO. The reason this is important is the 777 is much more energy efficient and does not require refueling when travelling to MNL. It really is a direct flight now.[/QUOTE]777 is efficient but 2 engine vs 4 engines of the 747 or a 340's.

One down and its going to be interesting for such long over water flights.

Scare monger at work (me).

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1591852]As I posted the tech stop is to refuel in view of cargo weight issues. Nothing to do with anything or military cargo, as on return leg they are regularly loaded to Max and uplift less fuel.

The 50 minutes wait is for brakes to cool, without which they won't take off.

Standard procedure for any airline.

I never heard LT skimping on safety. 'just my 2 cents.[/QUOTE]To Econo Tech.

It depend to many thing like strong headwind and weather most airline don't like to fill the plane full, I know Cathay Pacific only fill their plane only 65% lighter plane get better mileage from SFO to HK if they get strong headwind they stop for refueling in Tapei or Icheon airport.

Fast eddie 48.

[QUOTE=FastEddie48;1592443]To Econo Tech.

It depend to many thing like strong headwind and weather most airline don't like to fill the plane full, I know Cathay Pacific only fill their plane only 65% lighter plane get better mileage from SFO to HK if they get strong headwind they stop for refueling in Tapei or Icheon airport.

Fast eddie 48.[/QUOTE]In the case of Philippine Airlines, I am told it was due to weight restriction in uplifting Max fuel, which they trade off by the tech stop only on the homeward leg. And avoid unloading pax.

Either you fly with reduced pax / cargo and fly non stopo, or fill the plane and do a tech stop, as planes used to do, stopping in Anchorage with older planes, and even now the likes of Fedex / DHL do, on cargo flights do, to / from US, and as the B747 flying components for 787 does, even now, with multiple tech stops.

After all Cargo doesn't complain if there is a fuel stop.

The Max fuel at Max weight limitatiob is what made SQ reduce the seats in their world's longest non-stop flights, SIN / LAX, SIN / EWR.

Anyway it's a different subject altogether.

[QUOTE=FastEddie48;1592443]To Econo Tech.

It depend to many thing like strong headwind and weather most airline don't like to fill the plane full, I know Cathay Pacific only fill their plane only 65% lighter plane get better mileage from SFO to HK if they get strong headwind they stop for refueling in Tapei or Icheon airport.

Fast eddie 48.[/QUOTE]In the case of Philippine Airlines, I am told it was due to weight restriction in uplifting Max fuel, which they trade off by the tech stop only on the homeward leg. And avoid unloading pax.

Either you fly with reduced pax / cargo and fly non stopo, or fill the plane and do a tech stop, as planes used to do, stopping in Anchorage with older planes, and even now the likes of Fedex / DHL do, on cargo flights do, to / from US, and as the B747 flying components for 787 does, even now, with multiple tech stops.

After all Cargo doesn't complain if there is a fuel stop.

The Max fuel at Max weight limitatiob is what made SQ reduce the seats in their world's longest non-stop flights, SIN / LAX, SIN / EWR.

Anyway it's a different subject altogether.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1593607]Just make sure you get a supervised blood test and ask your doctor for the specific dose.

Self medicating with testosterone can seriously f*k up your prostate system.

It's not like taking a V or C pill every so often.

Remember that most guys over 60 have got some form of prostate problem, even if it is in very early stages, and rarely does it actually kill them. Loading up on T is a quick way to tip the system out of balance.[/QUOTE]Also you could have the same problem athletes have after long term use. Your body quits making the stuff. So if you quit use, your dick may be in the dirt for good. There's something you're supposed to inject along with it to keep that from happening. And allot of the excess T converts into estrogen. And excess estrogen has the same effect as low testosterone, low libido. So guys on T need to use an estrogen inhibitor too. You're messing with some serious shit if you start that.

There's a couple other things besides maca you could get at a health food store or online that would give you more sap.

[URL]https://www.swansonvitamins.com/now-foods-maca-pure-powder-certified-organic-7-oz-pwdr[/URL]

http://www.affordablesolaray.com/5150.html

[URL]http://www.swansonvitamins.com/swanson-premium-raw-multi-glandular-men-60-caps[/URL]

[URL]http://www.swansonvitamins.com/swanson-premium-raw-orchic-glandular-1-gram-30-tabs[/URL]

But a word of caution also on the latter. You may see a strange look on her face if she gets a mixed load of you and cattle gland in her mouth

Hello brother mongers,

I did a motorcycle tour of Mindanao this year. Was real fantastic as there are no tourist there. The girls are starved for white meat. Anyway this year (November) I'm going to Samar in the Philippines. Anybody got some scoop on that place.

Thanks,

LM

I was reading up in the CIA Factbook for some info on East Timor. I came across entries which I had not seen before. These had to do with HIV / AIDS.

There are three numbers given: - infection rate. That is, number of persons infected per 100,000 of population: Numbers of persons living with AIDS, and death rate.

Despite many punters fears of contracting AIDS in the Phils, the actual infection rate in the USA is six times the infection rate in the Phils. That is, you are six times more likely to contract AIDS from unprotected sex in the US than in the Phils.

The number of people living with AIDS in the US is 1.2 million, and in the Phils it is 14,800.

The death rate per year in the US is 17,000, and in the Phils is 300.

So forget your worries about the Phils, and be six times more afraid in the USA.

And for those who are married, and feel safe, be aware that about 50% of married women in western societies have sex outside marriage. So you are not safe there, either.

I guess some of you may be interested.

One might ask. Given that the USA is broke, and owes 14 trillion dollars, why is it borrowing more money to give to the Philippines for AIDS prevention action when the money could be far more effectively used for AIDS prevention at home.

G

[QUOTE=Gangles;1594057]



One might ask. Given that the USA is broke, and owes 14 trillion dollars, why is it borrowing more money to give to the Philippines for AIDS prevention action when the money could be far more effectively used for AIDS prevention at home.

G[/QUOTE]In a word " influence".

[QUOTE=Gangles;1594057]One might ask. Given that the USA is broke, and owes 14 trillion dollars, why is it borrowing more money to give to the Philippines for AIDS prevention action when the money could be far more effectively used for AIDS prevention at home. G[/QUOTE]Winning friends and influencing people, of course. And think of all the good it does by holding down HIV risk for all us mongers. And of course interventions like that do not discriminate on the basis of the monger's nationality--so that Aussies and Brits are beneficiaries too. In other words, G, we're looking out for you.

It may also be that people in the U.S. are six times more likely to be tested and, when found to be positive, six times more likely to have their cases end up in the statistics. I made up the numbers.

[QUOTE=Gangles;1594057]One might ask. Given that the USA is broke, and owes 14 trillion dollars, why is it borrowing more money to give to the Philippines for AIDS prevention action when the money could be far more effectively used for AIDS prevention at home.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1594251]Winning friends and influencing people, of course. And think of all the good it does by holding down HIV risk for all us mongers[/QUOTE]I would offer a slightly different possibility. Selling drugs? The industry makes out quite well from tax payer and other subsidies. And anti virals are about the most expensive.

[QUOTE=Sam14;1594265]I would offer a slightly different possibility. Selling drugs? The industry makes out quite well from tax payer and other subsidies. And anti virals are about the most expensive.[/QUOTE]Such cynicism. You mean you don't think Uncle Sam is looking out for G? Or maybe you are Uncle Sam.

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1594271]Such cynicism. You mean you don't think Uncle Sam is looking out for G? Or maybe you are Uncle Sam.[/QUOTE]Haha. Well, lets just say I don't believe the US governmant's number one priority is compassion and the well being of brown people. Haha.

[quote=sam14;1594265]i would offer a slightly different possibility. selling drugs? the industry makes out quite well from tax payer and other subsidies. and anti virals are about the most expensive.[/quote]anti-virals aren't prevention now, are they? prevention is education and condoms. what you have are special interest groups who pressure / lobby on behalf of their typically narrow constituencies, such as anti-aids activists and their supporters. "we need to do something! "silence=death", yada yada. companies stand to gain as well. a lot of these folks attach international issues to domestic concerns. maybe they want to travel on the ngo's dime. i bethca the buggery in city x skyrockets when the international aids conference comes to town. once a programme / set-aside is funded it seems to go ad infinitum until some other competing group, say bible-thumping bigots, lobbies against in and gets a change. speeches. protests. huffing and puffing. eventually everyone grows weary of it because they find a new shiny plaything to quarrel over.

and bombing brown people.

Came across this website while searching for something else and thought it might be useful, especially for those looking for budget and / or mid priced hotels as they are pre-grouped as such. It also breaks the hotels down into geographic areas within metro Manila and Cebu; a nice touch. Although it is not all inclusive, the list of hotels seems extensive and current.

"iLink. Ph" is not a booking website, just a list of hotels, but there are links provided with each listing to email the hotels directly. Also, note that for each city the budget price guidelines vary; I. E. : MNL = 2,500 php and under, Cebu = 2,000 php and under, etc. The guidelines are listed on each city's respective page.

In addition, there are also listings for hotels outside of the metro city and in areas not often found when searching on the major hotel booking sites. Plus there are listings for other things such as car rental agencies, tours, resto's, etc.

This by no means an endorsement for either the website or any of the hotels / businesses contained therein. I suggest you independently confirm the rate (s) and if possible the quality of accommodations / services. As always, YMMV.

Note: As this website is a general list of hotels with links for several areas in the Phils, I posted here as opposed to a specific city's hotel thread.

[URL]http://www.ilink.ph/manila-hotels[/URL]

From my country we are only dealing of around 5 mill people. The best healthcare (free of charge) in the world and the last 3 years 11,13, 12 people have been diagnosed with HIV. They not develope the Aids so they are all up and coming and beeing medicated soon enough I have not heard of one person died from aids simce the early 2000.

As my doctorfriend tells me, as I am barbacking like there is no tomorrow, contracting HIV virus is actually hard. If you fuck with an open fleshwounds and blood to blood it might be easy.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1594513]From my country we are only dealing of around 5 mill people. The best healthcare (free of charge) in the world and the last 3 years 11,13, 12 people have been diagnosed with HIV.[/QUOTE]But if the HIV virus crosses over to the reindeer population, then the number you quoted would multiply exponentially to the nth degree, LOL.

i returned to the usa in april from a 5 month motorcycle tour of mindanao in the philippines. very good time. i would recommend it to anyone with no remaining reason to live. ha.

ha. no the people were very friendly and helpful. and the ladies, omg! very few white folks down there because of the dire warnings of the state dept. had the place to myself. lots of babes. hungry and ready to play for pay. presently working on an ebook for my trip. i wrote an ebook of my trip last year to west africa, where i.

also bought a motorcycle. if your interested it's on amazon. "motorcycling in ghana". mindanao is usually off the radar for most mongers or anyone else. so i won't go on and on with a trip report for which noone has any interest. ha ha.

but if anyone is planning to go there and has some questions, fire away. i would mention that the longest zipline in asia is there, which nearly made me [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord134][CodeWord134][/url] my pants. lol.

and the enchanted river in hinatuan is there and is so wonderful. you feel like you are on another planet. planning to tour samar this november. anyone got information on.

that place i would love to hear from you. happy trials.

lm

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1594612] Mindanao is usually off the radar for most mongers or anyone else. So I won't go on and on with a trip report for which noone has any interest. Ha ha.

[/QUOTE]Untrue for me; I appreciate the reports of the roads less traveled. I'll be quite happy to read your FRs, especially with emphasis on the mongering. At the very least it should be more interesting than flip-flops in Angeles City and the millionth iteration of help-my-boner-how-can-I-get-viagra post.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1594634]Untrue for me; I appreciate the reports of the roads less traveled. I'll be quite happy to read your FRs, especially with emphasis on the mongering. At the very least it should be more interesting than flip-flops in Angeles City and the millionth iteration of help-my-boner-how-can-I-get-viagra post.[/QUOTE]Not forgetting the " I paid more than you in a yellow / green / brown / red taxi at the airport. Why?

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1594648]Not forgetting the " I paid more than you in a yellow / green / brown / red taxi at the airport. Why?[/QUOTE]Unclear, m8. Why... what? Why take a taxi? Why pay _____? Why read a Mindanao FR? Why _____?

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1594659]Unclear, m8. Why... what? Why take a taxi? Why pay _____? Why read a Mindanao FR? Why _____?[/QUOTE]The million posters who paid more than someone else taking a taxi from the airport and reported same. Got8?

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1594705]The million posters who paid more than someone else taking a taxi from the airport and reported same. Got8?[/QUOTE]Ah yeah, gr8 1s indeed.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1594612]I returned to the USA in April from a 5 month motorcycle tour of Mindanao [/QUOTE]You are quite the adventurer, L5. Did you get to Zamboanga?

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1594612]I returned to the USA in April from a 5 month motorcycle tour of Mindanao in the Philippines. {S N I P} Mindanao is usually off the radar for most mongers or anyone else. So I won't go on and on with a trip report for which noone has any interest. Ha ha. {S N I P}LM[/QUOTE]I think many members would be very interested in your trip report, especially mongering in in less travelled places.

I have spent many happy times in Dipolog and Dapitan, and a friend lived in Cagayan de Oro for more than 3 years. Davao is also home to some posters here.

Please tell us more about your travels and your travel tips for Zamboanga.

Cheers.

I traveled around Samar a long time ago now, by bus or walking. It was dangerous, with thousands of rebels in remoter villages and the mountains. People and civilians got on and off the buses armed to the teeth and nervous passengers started at every pot hole in the road hit by the bus. Govt soldiers, bases and police were frequently attacked, vehicles and bridges blasted away etc. It was easy to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was in fact much safer walking. However, I repeat that was a long time ago, and things may have radically changed by now.

For one thing, everything is cheaper there. To set the record straight, I rode down the East coast as far as Bislig. I intended to continue on to Davao but I had a contact (Colonel in the army charged with chasing down rebels) that recommended that I not continue as there appeared to be trouble on the road ahead. And anyway I wasn't afraid but I think I heard my mom calling. So I turned around.

By far, the best and most screwing I ever did in my entire life was in CDO (Cagayan de Oro). I met an expat that took me to the house. All the expats around there are broke dicks. They get a SS check and not much else. I'm not rich but I have lots of money. The mamasan brought out 4 girls and asked which one I wanted and I said "I want all of them!" so she got them all in a line and marched them to my room at the Hotel. She stayed and made sure all the girls did what was needed. Too much fun. I had one girl sit on my face, one sucking Mr. Happy. Another was in charge of my balls and the last pushed a vibrator up my butt! Don't believe me? Ha ha. Ask to see the video. I told mamasan to video the whole thing, which she did. I stayed in CDO for a couple of weeks and burned thru a months worth of viagra and cialis. I usually take both if I have a heavy schedule. Banged at least 4 girls per day and the mamasan kept bringing me new ones because I paid well and tipped big. The local expats bargained and wheedled to get a good price. And I don't blame them for that. Its just that the juxtapostion of a free spending fat American made me quite popular for a time. I paid 1000 per head and always had 2 or three at a time. So much video. They loved video and took turns running the camera. The further south I got the more of an oddity I became. And the more attention from the ladies. It was a fucking incredible trip and I'm going back in November. My motorcycle is in storage there. BTW. I speak a lot of Cebuano. I recommend that to anyone going there. English is not widely spoken and if you speak even a few words of the language, you rise in their estimation. Plus the taxi drivers don't try to fuck you so hard. Ha ha.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1595105]For one thing, everything is cheaper there. To set the record straight, I rode down the East coast as far as Bislig. {S N I P}
By far, the best and most screwing I ever did in my entire life was in CDO (Cagayan de Oro). {S N I P} I speak a lot of Cebuano. {S N I P}[/QUOTE]Sorry, I don't quite follow your 5 month trip itinerary touring Mindanao.

If you travelled down the east coast, you probably left from Surigao City. From there to Bislig is maybe 250 km, covering a very tiny part of Mindanao. Surely you cannot claim to have toured Mindanao just by taking that short trip. Mindanao is a big island!

And how did you get to CDO travelling down the east coast?

Ako sa tinud-anay wala makasabut!

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1595163]Sorry, I don't quite follow your 5 month trip itinerary touring Mindanao.

If you travelled down the east coast, you probably left from Surigao City. From there to Bislig is maybe 250 km, covering a very tiny part of Mindanao. Surely you cannot claim to have toured Mindanao just by taking that short trip. Mindanao is a big island!

And how did you get to CDO travelling down the east coast?

Ako sa tinud-anay wala makasabut![/QUOTE]I took ferry from Cebu city to CDO, bought my Honda 125 and began from there. I ziplined in Bukidon (sp) and again on Camiguin Island. I boogie boarded on Siagao island. Snorkeled in the Enchanted River in Hinatuan. Visited countless fantastic waterfalls and caves. That trip took about 3 months. I had to return to Cebu to meet some relatives and continued my MC tour on Cebu island for a couple of months and then returned home. I have put my MC in storage in Cebu city and hope to return this year. So, you got me; I did not tour the entire Island of Mindanao as it seemed imprudent and time.

Constraints. I called it a tour of Mindanao because that's what I thought it was. Not entire island, that would take a lifetime and due to the rebel activity could be a little dangerous. And being a big, fat, white, bald guy tends to attract a bad crowd, ie kidnappers and other well.

A quick Google search of "fat, white bald guy" and "kidnap, Phiippines" doesn't turn up any hits. You had WR and I worried.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1595309] SNIP . . . And being a big, fat, white, bald guy tends to attract a bad crowd, ie kidnappers and other well.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1595105]For one thing, everything is cheaper there. By far, the best and most screwing I ever did in my entire life was in CDO (Cagayan de Oro).The mamasan brought out 4 girls and I said "I want all of them!"They loved video and took turns running the camera. The further south I got the more of an oddity I became. And the more attention from the ladies. It was a fucking incredible trip .[/QUOTE]Sounds like paradise, L. Did you get to Zamboanga?

[QUOTE=XMan;1595745]A quick Google search of "fat, white bald guy" and "kidnap, Phiippines" doesn't turn up any hits. You had WR and I worried.[/QUOTE]Very worried XMan, but being as I am I find attracts cuties not bad guys, maybe its his after shave?

As a long-time member of Date in Asia (DIA), I was gobstruck to open my account this morning and find I had been banned from the site.

I noticed new warnings on the site in the last few days about using inappropriate sexual language and other inappropriate actions when corresponding with girls.

I can't recall writing any such messages but I obviously pissed someone off to get the boot.

DIA, I am going to miss you. You provided me with many wonderful companions, friends, and short and long term partners over the years. I guess I will be moseying on over to the competition.

Anyone else noticed the holier bent in DIA?

[QUOTE=Polyorchid;1595907]As a long-time member of Date in Asia (DIA), I was gobstruck to open my account this morning and find I had been banned from the site.

I noticed new warnings on the site in the last few days about using inappropriate sexual language and other inappropriate actions when corresponding with girls.

I can't recall writing any such messages but I obviously pissed someone off to get the boot.

DIA, I am going to miss you. You provided me with many wonderful companions, friends, and short and long term partners over the years. I guess I will be moseying on over to the competition.

Anyone else noticed the holier bent in DIA?[/QUOTE]To polyorchid.

What is the big deal just open another account under a new name and info, most member use fake info anyway make sure you use another internet address.

Fast eddie 48.

[QUOTE=FastEddie48;1595968]To polyorchid.

What is the big deal just open another account under a new name and info, most member use fake info anyway make sure you use another internet address.

Fast eddie 48.[/QUOTE]It has been noted on this site over the last few months that those warnings are above all messages you send. Anytime I am in a conversation with a lady that starts to turn sexual I move her over to YM. If it is your desire to resurrect your account you will need a new IP address, new e-mail address, new picture, and new cell phone number for your account verification. Anything less and your account will not be approved.

I use 'surfeasy' for security and it gives an IP address in many parts of the world. , making it difficult to 'trace' me. When I was on DIA they would not allow logins I had to use my 'real' IP address.

You can also periodicaly (at least mine) have your IP porovider change your IP address.

When I need a phone number, I go to skype and get one.

I have not used YM, does anyone know if it 'releases' your IP address to others?

HAPPY HUNTING FRED.

[QUOTE=Amanut;1595972]It has been noted on this site over the last few months that those warnings are above all messages you send. Anytime I am in a conversation with a lady that starts to turn sexual I move her over to YM. If it is your desire to resurrect your account you will need a new IP address, new e-mail address, new picture, and new cell phone number for your account verification. Anything less and your account will not be approved.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Polyorchid;1595907]As a long-time member of Date in Asia (DIA), I was gobstruck to open my account this morning and find I had been banned from the site.

I noticed new warnings on the site in the last few days about using inappropriate sexual language and other inappropriate actions when corresponding with girls.

I can't recall writing any such messages but I obviously pissed someone off to get the boot.

DIA, I am going to miss you. You provided me with many wonderful companions, friends, and short and long term partners over the years. I guess I will be moseying on over to the competition.

Anyone else noticed the holier bent in DIA?[/QUOTE]I had been on DIA for a year or two, after I read about it's efficacy on this site actually. One day I go to sign in and "boom" I'm banned. I tried setting up agian but I use the same phone number and different email addy. Pretty iron clad security. Anyway, ended up signing up to filipinocupid. I'm happy again. Though I do miss DIA.

[QUOTE=FastEddie48;1595968]
What is the big deal just open another account under a new name and info, most member use fake info anyway make sure you use another internet address.[/QUOTE]The problem is that you need a new mobile number. There are all sorts of twists.

[QUOTE=FredGold;1595980]I use 'surfeasy' for security and it gives an IP address in many parts of the world. , making it difficult to 'trace' me. [/QUOTE]I use StrongVPN for access to sites blocked in China. They of course use many different IP addresses. But if I try to login to DIA via my VPN I get the following message:

[I]Sorry, your current IP Address is Blocked
Why is my IP address blocked?
Usually it's because of one of the following reasons:
◾ You are accessing our site from an unsupported country. We do not provide our services to users in all countries.
◾ You are using a satellite Internet provider. We block access from satellite Internet providers.
◾ You are using a proxy server. We block access from proxy servers.
◾ Someone in your neighbourhood has misused our services and forced us to block your whole neighbourhood. [/I]

I have to log in without VPN security.

Cheers.

Don't understand all the dishonesty. I find I get all I want without a whole bunch of digital deception. Maybe my wants are different somehow. Strange to me?

[QUOTE=Polyorchid;1595907]
Anyone else noticed the holier bent in DIA?[/QUOTE]I was nailed a few months ago after running the same very suggestive profile for more than a year. I tried to make a new account with a new mobile but as soon as I entered my text in the profile and saved it I was tossed again. As it hadn't been my primary hunting ground for quite a while it's no big deal; there are several other sites that are superior. I still haven't figured out how the site owners make money at DIA, and I reckon the monthly bandwidth costs have to be quite high. I never clicked on an ad.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1595105]By far, the best and most screwing I ever did in my entire life was in CDO (Cagayan de Oro).[/QUOTE]Thanks for posting your field report as lately, FR are few and far between here in the Philippine threads. But you should have posted in the [B]Other Areas[/B] section. Have to agree that CDO is off the hook with action day and night! Sort of how Cebu was 10 or 15 years ago. Lots of girls in from the provinces to find work and such who are up for anything!

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1596174]I was nailed a few months ago after running the same very suggestive profile for more than a year. I tried to make a new account with a new mobile but as soon as I entered my text in the profile and saved it I was tossed again. As it hadn't been my primary hunting ground for quite a while it's no big deal; there are several other sites that are superior. I still haven't figured out how the site owners make money at DIA, and I reckon the monthly bandwidth costs have to be quite high. I never clicked on an ad.[/QUOTE]Was looking myself the other day, and wondered why I had lost my 2 stars for being a good boy. Now it might be my reference to not worried if girl ac / dc.

Col.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1596174]I was nailed a few months ago after running the same very suggestive profile for more than a year. I tried to make a new account with a new mobile but as soon as I entered my text in the profile and saved it I was tossed again. As it hadn't been my primary hunting ground for quite a while it's no big deal; there are several other sites that are superior. I still haven't figured out how the site owners make money at DIA, and I reckon the monthly bandwidth costs have to be quite high. I never clicked on an ad.[/QUOTE]Hutsori,

May I ask what sites you consider better? I too have gotten the shaft from DiA, and Presently I am using my American VPS provider as a private proxy for my second account, but if it goes south I'm out of IP addresses. I'd like to have alternatives. I don't think their new SOP is particularly attractive.

[QUOTE=RollAides;1596245]Hutsori,

May I ask what sites you consider better? I too have gotten the shaft from DiA, and Presently I am using my American VPS provider as a private proxy for my second account, but if it goes south I'm out of IP addresses. I'd like to have alternatives. I don't think their new SOP is particularly attractive.[/QUOTE]Crossed wires. I was speaking of other dating sites such as filipinocupid (FC) and not proxies.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1596423]Crossed wires. I was speaking of other dating sites such as filipinocupid (FC) and not proxies.[/QUOTE]Yeah that's actually what I meant, sorry for the confusion. Which dating sites would you consider superior.

[QUOTE=RollAides;1596545]Yeah that's actually what I meant, sorry for the confusion. Which dating sites would you consider superior.[/QUOTE]FC for certain. Pinalove and tagged I prefer. Okcupid has much higher calibre girls but the membership isn't as large as the other sites. FC is worth the money, and you really can't do anything there as a standard member. The others you can get by without paying.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1596700]FC for certain. Pinalove and tagged I prefer. Okcupid has much higher calibre girls but the membership isn't as large as the other sites. FC is worth the money, and you really can't do anything there as a standard member. The others you can get by without paying.[/QUOTE]Blendr / Badoo?

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1596860]Blendr / Badoo?[/QUOTE]Am a member of Badoo too. I just prefer the others I named earlier.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1596700]FC for certain. Pinalove and tagged I prefer. Okcupid has much higher calibre girls but the membership isn't as large as the other sites. FC is worth the money, and you really can't do anything there as a standard member. The others you can get by without paying.[/QUOTE]Thank you, I will look into those.

On my next trip I am thinking about visiting Coron / Palawan. Probably leaving from Manila to there. I have never been there. Any suggestions on how to travel there and where to stay? I would like to be in a 3-4 star hotel with non-smoking rooms under $100/ night. I see Cebu Pacific has flights there but are they on small planes? Any help on this would be appreciated.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1597070]On my next trip I am thinking about visiting Coron / Palawan. Probably leaving from Manila to there. I have never been there. Any suggestions on how to travel there and where to stay? I would like to be in a 3-4 star hotel with non-smoking rooms under $100/ night. I see Cebu Pacific has flights there but are they on small planes? Any help on this would be appreciated.[/QUOTE]I took Philippine Airlines in 2012. The tickets were P3232 per person. All the planes going there are small (***and late****). The airport is probably the size of your family room. I am a diver so I went there for diving and stayed at SeaDive Resort. Room with AC (unit was too small for the room size) was P1400/ night. There are no 3-4 star hotels in the area. There may be only 3 choices of places to stay period. If you are going for diving then I highly recommend SeaDive. Actually, if you are not a diver then I would not recommend going to Coron at all. Puerto Princesa may be more of what you are looking for on the island of Palawan.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1597070]On my next trip I am thinking about visiting Coron / Palawan. Probably leaving from Manila to there. I have never been there. Any suggestions on how to travel there and where to stay? I would like to be in a 3-4 star hotel with non-smoking rooms under $100/ night. I see Cebu Pacific has flights there but are they on small planes? Any help on this would be appreciated.[/QUOTE]I flew earlier this year from Manila to Puerto Princessa on Cebu Pacific. It was 10,864 p for 2 people return. Yes, the plane was small but I like small planes.

I stayed in Puerto Princessa so I assume where I stayed doesn't interest you but just in case, I stayed at the Hotel Centro Palawan for about $100/ night. It was a 3-4 star hotel and I would recommend it.

Thanks for the information. I guess I am looking for a nice beach resort and had heard Palawan was the area. I can bring my own cutie for a few days. If this is not the nice resort area I am open to other suggestions.

GE has written some interesting and informative FRs this year about the power crisis in country, the rolling brownouts, the lack of planning by the politicians (all of whom knew there would be a crisis in the future but did little to resolve the mess. Until the 2016 elections are around the corner and then it is too late).

His FR links are below.

[URL]http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?1512-Living-in-the-Philippines&p=1564484&viewfull=1[/URL]#post1564484.

[URL]http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?1005-Davao&p=1564474&viewfull=1[/URL]#post1564474.

[URL]http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?1005-Davao&p=1551738&viewfull=1[/URL]#post1551738.

[URL]http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?1512-Living-in-the-Philippines&p=1545484&viewfull=1[/URL]#post1545484.

Now today in the Philstar is an admission from the DOCE chief (Petilla) that March and April 2015 are not the best times to be in the country due to a serous power shortage. He is asking for emergency powers to resolve the lack of MW. As GE said in the earlier FRs you have to despair at the lack of planning from those in power when other ASEAN countries seems to have so little fuss.

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/07/22/1348931/power-crisis-looms-2015[/URL]

I always read the comments at the end of the article and have noticed over the last 12-18 months how nastier they have become about the politicians (not just this one who has been called incompetent by a elder senator and never resigned when he said he would Christmas last year).

So maybe for those planning a visit to the Philippines the period March / April 2015 could be a time to avoid?

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1597494]Thanks for the information. I guess I am looking for a nice beach resort and had heard Palawan was the area. I can bring my own cutie for a few days. If this is not the nice resort area I am open to other suggestions.[/QUOTE]Palawan is a big island and the place to be is El Nido. Cebu Pacific flies A320's both from Manila and Cebu. After arriving in Puerto Princessa, it is a 4 to 5 hour van ride north to the beach town of El Nido where there is accommodations to fit every budget. Here is an example of a 5 star property above most budgets where the TV series 'Survivor' was filmed: [URL]http://www.elnidoresorts.com/elnido/lagen-island-resort/about-lagen-island/[/URL] If you go this route, good to have at least a week for travel and adventure.

Instead of flying back out of PP, take the ferry to Caron and fly back to Manila from there via CP. PM me if you need some suggestions for accommodations and more info about El Nido.

[QUOTE=BukoMax;1597879]Instead of flying back out of PP, take the ferry to Caron and fly back to Manila from there via CP. PM me if you need some suggestions for accommodations and more info about El Nido.[/QUOTE]BM,

Can you clear your Inbox as to full to take anymore PMs at the moment.

Thanks WR.

[QUOTE=JPF;1597179]I flew earlier this year from Manila to Puerto Princessa on Cebu Pacific. It was 10,864 p for 2 people return. Yes, the plane was small but I like small planes.

I stayed in Puerto Princessa so I assume where I stayed doesn't interest you but just in case, I stayed at the Hotel Centro Palawan for about $100/ night. It was a 3-4 star hotel and I would recommend it.[/QUOTE]A 320 isn't small. LOL.

BTW my first visit to PP was in a Cebu Pac DC9. In 2001/2002.

If you had scouted you can get return tickets to PP less than 3,000 per pax, well I am a budget traveller so I look for cheap deals.

Seems like the girls are getting upset too about guys who shave their pubes.

[URL]http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/dear-men-no-more-manscaping[/URL]

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1599048]Seems like the girls are getting upset too about guys who shave their pubes.

[URL]http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/dear-men-no-more-manscaping[/URL][/QUOTE]Eh? That piece was written by Matt Stopera. :P

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1599056]Eh? That piece was written by Matt Stopera. :P[/QUOTE]You didn't read the article responses Huts? Avalanche of women saying "don't".

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1599116]You didn't read the article responses Huts? Avalanche of women saying "don't".[/QUOTE]I hadn't. But now I have; I read the first 20-odd comments. Appears the prevailing opinion has now swung the other way to the anti-pubes camp. The accommodate the wishes of the women I meet I do trim, but not shave, my pubes to a shorter length; I'm not a over-all manscaper, but I'm also not especially hirsute.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1597660]So maybe for those planning a visit to the Philippines the period March / April 2015 could be a time to avoid?[/QUOTE]I think he said April and May. Aren't they usually the hottest months, so presumably it's about aircon and fan use because of the heat. But the heat makes those months less pleasant anyway.

Out of curiosity, have any of you with property in the provinces ever looked into alternative energy sources--solar, wind, small hydro, geothermal? I'm wondering if there are respectable suppliers and engineer-type experts around.

I want to thank whoever said (probably several people) that Phil girls like having babies and do not worry about getting preg, in fact many want to get preg. I've been 'fixed' for many years and while video chatting on skype she said how she wants me to cum in her so she can get preg (told her I had a few kids). I am sure if I said that I was 'fixed' she would drop me like a lead balloon. Oh also condoms are only for prostitutes.

So, ty for the heads up. So to speak- oh, she assured me that I was very special to her and that others never see her naked on skype. Just me. I wonder if she also has a bridge for sale?

HAPPY HUNTING FRED.

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1599551]
Out of curiosity, have any of you with property in the provinces ever looked into alternative energy sources--solar, wind, small hydro, geothermal? I'm wondering if there are respectable suppliers and engineer-type experts around.[/QUOTE]Yes I have.

Yes there are, and the costs are quite reasonable too (for solar anyway).

I checked out if I could sell surplus load to the grid of the local electric company and that caused a major problem.

The local power companies do not want people generating their own power.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1599634]
I checked out if I could sell surplus load to the grid of the local electric company and that caused a major problem.

The local power companies do not want people generating their own power.[/QUOTE]

RK, would you be willing to elaborate on what you encountered?

Took me a few trips but I figured it out. I bring an unlocked iphone and get a local SIM card for local texting and calls also for data plan. Under the 3 g / data or wifi I can text people back home in US thru iMessage to their iPhone or iPad for free. Also make Facetime calls free too. While in US I download Magic Jack app on iPhone and Ipad and can make free calls to US and Canada from anywhere in the world for free using wifi or 3 g. Just thought I would pass this along in case you didn't know.

[quote=dg8787;1599868]took me a few trips but i figured it out. i bring an unlocked iphone and get a local sim card for local texting and calls also for data plan. under the 3 g / data or wifi i can text people back home in us thru imessage to their iphone or ipad for free. also make facetime calls free too. while in us i download magic jack app on iphone and ipad and can make free calls to us and canada from anywhere in the world for free using wifi or 3 g. just thought i would pass this along in case you didn't know.[/quote]i've been using that protocol for a few years now, and it works well, particularly since most of my friends and family outside the philippines also use iphones, so facetime and imessage are especially useful. my sim allows alte, but the only problem i've experienced is that the lte speed in he philippines is slow and often intermittent.

ge.

[quote=goodenough;1599887]my sim allows alte, but the only problem i've experienced is that the lte speed in he philippines is slow and often intermittent.

ge.[/quote]agreed 4 g is a bit of waste of money in the phil's especially if you travel about a bit.

i was a very long time apple mac & later iphone / ipad user but as a business user i am becoming agnostic to technology. i'm into practicality. nothing wrong with apple's gear in general & i still recommend it to non tech users.

these days my minimal kit is a microfoft surface pro 2 (essentially a real laptop with a full powered usb port + ethernet port shrunk into a tablet) plus a decent 3 g smart phone.

i did have a beautiful nokia 1030 but the screen shattered so easily i can't be bothered to get it fixed. i replaced it with the ultimate work horse smartphone, a motorola moto g. these 3 g android based phones are marketed as a dual sim phone. i find having a globe & smart sim very useful. globe is arguably the most consistent signal all around the phil's but there are black spits where smart is the only way to go. downtown balibago for example.

put a postpaid sim in it or a pre paid + p1000 load & subscribe to unlimited internet for 30 days. this saves me from relying lousy insecure wifi connections in hotels etc.

the tablet can use it via usb tethering or wifi hotspot.

av.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1600167] I find having a Globe & Smart Sim very useful. Globe is arguably the most consistent signal all around the Phil's but there are black spits where Smart is the only way to go. Downtown Balibago for example.[/QUOTE]There's no way to tell how many opportunities I've missed not having dual Sim capability. It's a problem for so many of these girls to maintain load. Davao for example, almost everyone uses Smart so they're unlikely to even text outside their network. So I end up packing an extra phone as well as sending an occasional load or two. Man, what a hassle.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1599634]Yes I have.

Yes there are, and the costs are quite reasonable too (for solar anyway).

I checked out if I could sell surplus load to the grid of the local electric company and that caused a major problem.

The local power companies do not want people generating their own power.[/QUOTE]And it is illegal for foreigners to own or operate public utilities, which by a broad definition can mean you generating power and depriving the bloated monopolies of fat bonuses.

[quote=amavida;1600167]agreed 4 g is a bit of waste of money in the phil's especially if you travel about a bit.

i was a very long time apple mac & later iphone / ipad user but as a business user i am becoming agnostic to technology. i'm into practicality. nothing wrong with apple's gear in general & i still recommend it to non tech users.

these days my minimal kit is a microfoft surface pro 2 (essentially a real laptop with a full powered usb port + ethernet port shrunk into a tablet) plus a decent 3 g smart phone.

i did have a beautiful nokia 1030 but the screen shattered so easily i can't be bothered to get it fixed. i replaced it with the ultimate work horse smartphone, a motorola moto g. these 3 g android based phones are marketed as a dual sim phone. i find having a globe & smart sim very useful. globe is arguably the most consistent signal all around the phil's but there are black spits where smart is the only way to go. downtown balibago for example.

put a postpaid sim in it or a pre paid + p1000 load & subscribe to unlimited internet for 30 days. this saves me from relying lousy insecure wifi connections in hotels etc.

the tablet can use it via usb tethering or wifi hotspot.

av.[/quote]i'm a fairly committed apple addict, so my standard kit is two iphones--one smart and one globe--and an ipad mini with sim card. the only problem for me is that the connection speeds are slow, whether 3 g or lte, and the voice capabilities are unreliable. given the generally poor quality of the cell networks here, there's no perfect solution.

ge.

[quote=goodenough;1600382]i'm a fairly committed apple addict, so my standard kit is two iphones--one smart and one globe--and an ipad mini with sim card. the only problem for me is that the connection speeds are slow, whether 3 g or lte, and the voice capabilities are unreliable. given the generally poor quality of the cell networks here, there's no perfect solution.

ge.[/quote]the latest ipad mini is a very nice device ge. i find today's smartphone web browsers capable of 90% of my needs but there is no substitute for a real desktop web browser sometimes due to shitty web site coding. that's where the surface pro 2 (stupid names) steps in & saves me from having to use an insecure 3rd party pc.

i'd love lte but see enough coverage to be bothered with it yet ge. that also applies in australia unless your not mobile & sitting right in the middle of a coverage area.

one area if smart phone design / performance that rarely, if ever, gets mentioned is reception. this does vary significantly from one handset design to another. many of the older nokia's were good. an old lg renoir i owned had outstanding reception compared to anything else.

this motorola moto g (stupid names) is very good i must say. i had the option of the moto x, a 4 g variant but i eschewed lte because of afore mentioned spotty coverage & more importantly battery issues. lte radios suck way more power. ill take a slower steady connection to a fast intermittent connection. long battery life is very important to me also. motorola should know a thing or two about radio engineering given their history.

switching from iphone purity of design to windows phone or android is a bit of a culture shock he he. what android lacks in refinement it makes up for in flexibility.

i would warn any one contemplating an android based phone to only go with a google nexus or motorola g / x as these get all the latest operating system bug / security fixes the sane as apple. having a device in your pocket always connected to the net its imperative to be right on top of security inho.

i would rule out most other android handsets because they simply don't get updated in a timely manner. if ever.

av.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1600229]And it is illegal for foreigners to own or operate public utilities, which by a broad definition can mean you generating power and depriving the bloated monopolies of fat bonuses.[/QUOTE]I sent responding posters (RA, SK and ET) a PM but for those lurkers who might also be interested, here is an informative link for a Meralco innovation.

My experience was with another power company. Seems like Meralco is getting its act together at last, even if the price of electricity is high.

[URL]http://www.rappler.com/business/industries/173-power-and-energy/64165-solar-power-ph-households-net-metering[/URL]

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1600417]I sent responding posters (RA, SK and ET) a PM but for those lurkers who might also be interested, here is an informative link for a Meralco innovation.

My experience was with another power company. Seems like Meralco is getting its act together at last, even if the price of electricity is high.

[URL]http://www.rappler.com/business/industries/173-power-and-energy/64165-solar-power-ph-households-net-metering[/URL][/QUOTE]That's a helpful post.

I will see how to get things going in Baguio.

BTW Mr Guzman's air cons in the report. I believe partly his high bill is due to bad air cons plus positioning. LOL.

Amavida, personally I opted for a Smart pocket Router since my experiments with a Huawei Tablet, a I pad Mini, A Samsung Tab and a Samsung S3, and few devices made me conclude part of the reception issue is on the receiving antenna.

The pocket router got full signal in places where other devices showed low or no signal.

Plus a router means you can share with 'guests ' LOL.

That's my suggestion. And since the pocket routers have a battery to last few hours they are reasonably mobile.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1600402]The latest iPad mini is a very nice device GE. I find today's smartphone web browsers capable of 90% of my needs but there is no substitute for a real desktop web browser sometimes due to shitty web site coding. That's where the Surface Pro 2 (stupid names) steps in & saves me from having to use an insecure 3rd party PC.

I'd love LTE but see enough coverage to be bothered with it yet GE. That also applies in Australia unless your not mobile & sitting right in the middle of a coverage area.

One area if smart phone design / performance that rarely, if ever, gets mentioned is reception. This does vary significantly from one handset design to another. Many of the older Nokia's were good. An old LG Renoir I owned had outstanding reception compared to anything else.

This Motorola Moto G (stupid names) is very good I must say. I had the option of the Moto X, a 4 g variant but I eschewed LTE because of afore mentioned spotty coverage & more importantly battery issues. LTE radios suck way more power. Ill take a slower steady connection to a fast intermittent connection. Long battery life is very important to me also. Motorola should know a thing or two about radio engineering given their history.

Switching from iPhone purity of design to Windows Phone or Android is a bit of a culture shock he he. What Android lacks in refinement it makes up for in flexibility.

I would warn any one contemplating an Android based phone to only go with a Google Nexus or Motorola g / x as these get all the latest operating system bug / security fixes the sane as Apple. Having a device in your pocket always connected to the net its imperative to be right on top of security inho.

I would rule out most other Android handsets because they simply don't get updated in a timely manner. If ever.

AV.[/QUOTE]I wanted a smart phone I could use both in USA and Phil because of my three times a year trips there and I picked the Moto G. My last trip was 30 days and it performed flawlessly in every regard. I used a Globe simm and had better coverage and in more places than the people I was with. So I will second Amavida's recommendation.

i'm looking at spending between 4 and 6 weeks in the philippines. most likely september to about middle oct, may start earlier but would then go until mid oct anyway.

what i want to do is find a nice self-contained furnished place. safe clean comfortable with air con, somewhere to use as a base of operations.

i will not be hunting for pro's but will be targeting normal girls, shop girls, students and unemployed mall rats. i have been looking on tagged and the dating sites and have several possibilities in view. i know that picking them up at malls and other similar places is also a possibility.

i appear to have two options, one is to book a long term place through one of the travel sites but these tend to be more expensive. the upside is that there are traveler's reviews to look at to see what you are getting. the other option is to book only a few nights to get started then look for a place once on the ground. might be cheraper but there is some uncertanity. i could also use the excuse of looking for a place to stary to start some conservations.

i was thinking of either angeles city or cebu to start. both places are big enough to have a good herd of possible targets roaming wild. do not really want manila due to costs, congestion and crime issues.

any recommendations or suggestions on either cities and or places in a specific city. my budget is $us 3 000 per month for living, eating and fun.

[quote=kabulguy;1601039]i'm looking at spending between 4 and 6 weeks in the philippines. most likely september to about middle oct, may start earlier but would then go until mid oct anyway.

what i want to do is find a nice self-contained furnished place. safe clean comfortable with air con, somewhere to use as a base of operations.

i will not be hunting for pro's but will be targeting normal girls, shop girls, students and unemployed mall rats. i have been looking on tagged and the dating sites and have several possibilities in view. i know that picking them up at malls and other similar places is also a possibility.

i appear to have two options, one is to book a long term place through one of the travel sites but these tend to be more expensive. the upside is that there are traveler's reviews to look at to see what you are getting. the other option is to book only a few nights to get started then look for a place once on the ground. might be cheraper but there is some uncertanity. i could also use the excuse of looking for a place to stary to start some conservations.

i was thinking of either angeles city or cebu to start. both places are big enough to have a good herd of possible targets roaming wild. do not really want manila due to costs, congestion and crime issues.

any recommendations or suggestions on either cities and or places in a specific city. my budget is $us 3 000 per month for living, eating and fun.[/quote]i agree, forget manila unless you're on the corporate gravy train.

i can't speak to cebu but in ac the off the cuff recommendation would be la teresita hotel. ask for a 'villa'. this is a standard filipino style 'up & down' fully furnished apartment. air con in the upstairs bedroom, fan downstairs. there is a nice little pool in between the villas & the hotel rooms. it will run you about p35,000 per month or less if you prebook for a long stay.

only problem is ac is arguably the worst place in the phil's to pick up non p4 p girls. there's tons of girls wandering the streets you can hook up with but there is a reason they are not _inside_ the bars. failed hygiene checks, criminal activity, drug addiction or just totally unreliable. ymmv.

if you want to step up to the next level try a long term booking of a large hotel room at the same hotel. not as roomy as an apartment but nice rooms & affordable.

if you want very classy try the big condo development inside clark sez. luxury 1 bedroom condo there will run you about p66,000 per month + maid p1,000 per week. a car can be had for hire also but this would probably in the order of p30,000 per month additional.

you can ask around once here for a short term lease of a conventional apartment but i think you're not here long enough for that.

i'd say just get a big'ish hotel room with kitchenette on a long term rate. tons to choose from. read recent posts.

cheers.

av.

[quote=kabulguy;1601039]i'm looking at spending between 4 and 6 weeks in the philippines. most likely september to about middle oct, may start earlier but would then go until mid oct anyway.

what i want to do is find a nice self-contained furnished place. safe clean comfortable with air con, somewhere to use as a base of operations.

i will not be hunting for pro's but will be targeting normal girls, shop girls, students and unemployed mall rats. i have been looking on tagged and the dating sites and have several possibilities in view. i know that picking them up at malls and other similar places is also a possibility.

i appear to have two options, one is to book a long term place through one of the travel sites but these tend to be more expensive. the upside is that there are traveler's reviews to look at to see what you are getting. the other option is to book only a few nights to get started then look for a place once on the ground. might be cheraper but there is some uncertanity. i could also use the excuse of looking for a place to stary to start some conservations.

i was thinking of either angeles city or cebu to start. both places are big enough to have a good herd of possible targets roaming wild. do not really want manila due to costs, congestion and crime issues.

any recommendations or suggestions on either cities and or places in a specific city. my budget is $us 3 000 per month for living, eating and fun.[/quote]do i understand it right? for 4-6 weeks you want to target normal girls to fuck? you would fill them with bola bola? ultimate target is a virgin?

Angeles City is probably not the most likely venue for chasing "normal" women. Where would you look?

[QUOTE=KabulGuy;1601039]I'm looking at spending between 4 and 6 weeks in the Philippines. Most likely September to about middle Oct, may start earlier but would then go until mid Oct anyway.[/QUOTE]For the first time visitor, I always suggest people go to Angeles first to get their ya yas out. Then proceed to Cebu (direct flight via Cebu Pacific) to get the real GFE. If you are only staying one month, better not to tie yourself down to one hotel. If you book ahead, only book a few nights especially in Cebu. Then you can switch locations to keep them guessing! Many hotels give discounts for weekly stays or rooms paid in cash. Deal directly through the hotels in person, if possible. You will be visiting during the peak of the typhoon season so you might have to dodge a few storms.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1601473]Angeles City is probably not the most likely venue for chasing "normal" women. Where would you look?[/QUOTE]Probably Gaza City would be best for targeting normal girls in search of hansum man to save them.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1601441]Do I understand it right? For 4-6 weeks you want to target normal girls to fuck? You would fill them with bola bola? Ultimate target is a virgin?[/QUOTE]I'm getting some good initial leads from tagged and a couple dating sites. It can be done.

Its strange how I can perform perfectly normally & pretty much as long as I want with girl friends but need to get by with a little help from my friends. At Pfizer. When I'm with a stranger (or multiple strangers he he) for the first time no matter how cute.

With no prior experience I tried Cialis based on its alleged benefits. In practice I found significant side effects, obvious facial flushing, back pain & headache. For me the desired effects were variable. Can be very long lasting, sometimes too long Do not buy this off the street, its fake at present due to the Philippine wide unavailability. 5 mg is more than enough for me.

Levitra, shit this stuff will send you broke. P3200.00 at Manson's / Watson's for 4 tabs. No side effects but desired effects a little variable and 20 mg really needed. Seemsvto wear off faster than I expect.

Viagra, this is still the reference medication. Works well for me with no noticeable side effects. Even the stuff sold on the streets works fine for me. I'm finding 100 mg works best for me.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1601680]Its strange how I can perform perfectly normally & pretty much as long as I want with girl friends but need to get by with a little help from my friends. At Pfizer. When I'm with a stranger (or multiple strangers he he) for the first time no matter how cute.

With no prior experience I tried Cialis based on its alleged benefits. In practice I found significant side effects, obvious facial flushing, back pain & headache. For me the desired effects were variable. Can be very long lasting, sometimes too long Do not buy this off the street, its fake at present due to the Philippine wide unavailability. 5 mg is more than enough for me.

Levitra, shit this stuff will send you broke. P3200.00 at Manson's / Watson's for 4 tabs. No side effects but desired effects a little variable and 20 mg really needed. Seemsvto wear off faster than I expect.

Viagra, this is still the reference medication. Works well for me with no noticeable side effects. Even the stuff sold on the streets works fine for me. I'm finding 100 mg works best for me.

AV.[/QUOTE]Thank Amavida, I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. Actually, since moving to the land of no condoms, it's a lot less of an issue, but I'm always surprised to find how much a brand new partner can dial up my nerves, even if I'm really into her. Maybe a fight or flight reflex or something, who knows? Certainly nature seems to benefit from a little blue encouragement in some situations.

I think that with pharmaceuticals one really has to tune what works for them personally, probably due to individual biochemistry. For myself, if I take more than half a 50 mg Viagara, I get serious sinus congestion and flushing. On the other hand, Cialais doesn't bother me much, but then it doesn't [I]do[/I] that much, either. Different pills for different people, perhaps.

[QUOTE=RollAides;1601785]Thank Amavida, I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. Actually, since moving to the land of no condoms, it's a lot less of an issue, but I'm always surprised to find how much a brand new partner can dial up my nerves, even if I'm really into her. Maybe a fight or flight reflex or something, who knows? Certainly nature seems to benefit from a little blue encouragement in some situations..[/QUOTE]Yeah the condom thing. I use them with p4 p girls as a matter of course but my generation grew up without them & try as I might I find them a bit of a turn off. Buying the best quality ones helps. The lack of spontaneity & fiddling about does not help. A few girls can make it a bit sexy but most women don't. Up to me to try to time it well.

Girlfriends & low mileage hookups who bareback is much more pleasurable for me.

AV.

GE asked, where would you look for a normal girl in AC?

Well, it was many years ago but I met an gal in AC thru one of the online sites. She was a maid at one of the better known hotels. On her day off I invited her over for a swim and we went from the pool to the bed. She later said, "I've never done That before. " (I think she was referring to the first date sex). Nevertheless, I agree with GE that AC is not a place you would expect to court "normal" women. Hell, you won't find anyone normal in that town.

I think most of the advice so far has been good. I will take a moment to respectfully disagree with members who suggest that a "street girl" is probably diseased and / or ladyboy, etc. Okay, late at night I generally stay away from the friendly streetwakers. Especially if they are aggressive. How about daytime. I chatted up a two girls walking down the street at noon. Gal told me what bar she worked at. I went to the bar that night and was greeted like some long lost bf. A great session followed. Use your imagination. In the late morning we went out to breakfast and she wanted to stop into the bar to talk to her friends. Much to my surprise, quite a few of the gals were sleeping on the bench-stlye sofa seating inside the bar. A bit sad. I had my sweaty, stinky ass on that sofa earlier in the morning.

I've had some pretty incredible sessions with gals who were not exactly working in the bar -- and I didn't catch anything from them except the sweet whiff of female pheromones.

Ex-bar girls. Bless their hearts. Some are on allowances, some on "permanent" bar fine, some just taking a rest after hitting the jackpot, some maybe just need to get away from the bar girl grind (pun somewhat intended). They live in the area and they have friends in the area. If they know you, or you have a bit of charisma, you can do well. You might just bump into one at the mall or walking down the street.

Nevertheless, I often do what a recent poster suggested. Stay a few days in AC and then take the Cebu Pacific flight to Cebu. I think they fly Tues, Th. , Sat.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1601473]Angeles City is probably not the most likely venue for chasing "normal" women. Where would you look?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Nightrider1;1600831]I wanted a smart phone I could use both in USA and Phil because of my three times a year trips there and I picked the Moto G. My last trip was 30 days and it performed flawlessly in every regard. I used a Globe simm and had better coverage and in more places than the people I was with. So I will second Amavida's recommendation.[/QUOTE]Nightrider, clear out your inbox, its full. I can't reply to PM.

just how easy is it to get cialis from a pharmacy in the phillipines?

i know that it is east to get it on the street but would perfer to get my drugs from a pharmacy to be safer.

also any idea of the cost from a pharmacy? i usually take the 20 mg pills because they last me 4 days and work out a little cheraper than the 5 mg ones (at least based on uae prices).

thanks.

[quote=kabulguy;1602581]just how easy is it to get cialis from a pharmacy in the phillipines?

i know that it is east to get it on the street but would perfer to get my drugs from a pharmacy to be safer.

also any idea of the cost from a pharmacy? i usually take the 20 mg pills because they last me 4 days and work out a little cheraper than the 5 mg ones (at least based on uae prices).

thanks.[/quote]last i heard, and i think it was on this board, cialis can't be purchased at a pharmacy here due to some type of non-compliance by its manufacturer with the philippines fda. i guess there's some generic you can get though.

[quote=kabulguy;1602581]just how easy is it to get cialis from a pharmacy in the phillipines?

i know that it is east to get it on the street but would perfer to get my drugs from a pharmacy to be safer.

also any idea of the cost from a pharmacy? i usually take the 20 mg pills because they last me 4 days and work out a little cheraper than the 5 mg ones (at least based on uae prices).

thanks.[/quote]not available in the philippines at present. the generic viagra & levitra on the street is real. the generic cialis on the street is presently fake. do not waste your money.

av.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1602790]Not available in the Philippines at present. The generic Viagra & Levitra on the street is real. The generic Cialis on the street is presently fake. Do not waste your money.

AV.[/QUOTE]If you have some time, I suggest ordering generic Cialis by mail. I highly recommend the following site for buying generic Cialis and generic Viagra. It's dirt cheap, and every bit as good as the real thing. I've used this website about 5 times, and they are very reliable:

[URL]http://www.jcmrx.sx[/URL]

RG.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1602793]If you have some time, I suggest ordering generic Cialis by mail. I highly recommend the following site for buying generic Cialis and generic Viagra. It's dirt cheap, and every bit as good as the real thing. I've used this website about 5 times, and they are very reliable:

[URL]http://www.jcmrx.sx[/URL]

RG[/QUOTE]I tried that site you mentioned. They took my money but never sent anything! I got no order number in the email to track it nor any response from my quieres. Might be a great.

Site but didn't work for me.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1603980]I tried that site you mentioned. They took my money but never sent anything! I got no order number in the email to track it nor any response from my quieres. Might be a great.

Site but didn't work for me.[/QUOTE]I don't know what to say. My most recent order was last month. They sent me 110 tabs (20 MG) of generic Cialis, which was as effective as the name brand, for $78.30 (shipping included), and it took two-and-a-half weeks to receive from India to the US. They emailed me a tracking number and everything, same as the other previous times.

RG.

I'm not objecting to this exchange of info, but I do believe that ISG has a dedicated thread for the vitamin curious. Personally, I've used the India route as well as the AC / MM / Cebu street sellers route. Cialis. I've had firm results either way.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1604113]I don't know what to say. My most recent order was last month. They sent me 110 tabs (20 MG) of generic Cialis, which was as effective as the name brand, for $78.30 (shipping included), and it took two-and-a-half weeks to receive from India to the US. They emailed me a tracking number and everything, same as the other previous times.

RG.[/QUOTE]They are very backed up over there in Mumbai. A guy got an email to me and everything looks to be ducky.

Thanks

Just bringing it to your attention. Uber service in Manila, [URL]https://www.uber.com/cities/manila[/URL].

Those of you who want to know about the Manila to / from AC traffic may want to get the app NLigtas, [URL]http://www.mntc.com/media/news-20121029.htm[/URL] & [URL]http://www.tollways.net.ph/en/[/URL]. It won't fix the traffic but it'll give you a better idea of the duration of your travel.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1607821]Just bringing it to your attention. Uber service in Manila, [URL]https://www.uber.com/cities/manila[/URL].

Those of you who want to know about the Manila to / from AC traffic may want to get the app NLigtas, [URL]http://www.mntc.com/media/news-20121029.htm[/URL] & [URL]http://www.tollways.net.ph/en/[/URL]. It won't fix the traffic but it'll give you a better idea of the duration of your travel.[/QUOTE]I've been using Uber almost since its debut in Manila. It works fine in Makati and Ortigas, which are the areas in which I mostly use it. Coverage may be spotty in some areas though. For example, I've only been successful once in getting an Uber car to pick me up at the airport.

GE.

The South Korean embassy in Manila expressed alarm Thursday at a rise in crimes against its nationals in the Philippines, citing the killing of nine South Koreans this year alone.

I have never flown with them, but they say they allow 20 kg of free checked luggage in coach. Each additional kilo is 10 USD in Manila. Anyone have experience as to how strict they are with the charges?

Thanks FRED GOLD.

[QUOTE=Laydher;1608666]The South Korean embassy in Manila expressed alarm Thursday at a rise in crimes against its nationals in the Philippines, citing the killing of nine South Koreans this year alone.[/QUOTE]Most of the time it's one Korean settling a beef with another Korean. The odd time it's a local who was working for the Korean.

The main reason more Koreans are ending up dead in the Philippines, there are more Koreans visiting and living in the Philippines.

[QUOTE=FredGold;1608969]I have never flown with them, but they say they allow 20 kg of free checked luggage in coach. Each additional kilo is 10 USD in Manila. Anyone have experience as to how strict they are with the charges?

Thanks FRED GOLD.[/QUOTE]Depends, domestic or international?

PAL is fairly strict when it comes to enforcing the latest baggage policy. On certain domestic routes they weigh your carry on, they weigh your checked bag, then they will weigh you! You pay if you are over the allowed carry on and / or checked bag weight limit. They weigh you for even weight distribution on smaller aircraft.

If you are over the allowable limit you will pay up. IMO PAL is not as strict as CP, but YMMV.

Sorry, I omitted that it is from Manila to Bali. Yes, international and domestic can be very different.

On AirAsia they were very strict on one particular flight and I had to wear a few layers of clothes, sweating like a pig.

Thanks!

[QUOTE=StrokerAce88;1609014]Depends, domestic or international?

PAL is fairly strict when it comes to enforcing the latest baggage policy. On certain domestic routes they weigh your carry on, they weigh your checked bag, then they will weigh you! You pay if you are over the allowed carry on and / or checked bag weight limit. They weigh you for even weight distribution on smaller aircraft.

If you are over the allowable limit you will pay up. IMO PAL is not as strict as CP, but YMMV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=FredGold;1609024]
On AirAsia they were very strict on one particular flight and I had to wear a few layers of clothes, sweating like a pig.
[/QUOTE]I've flown AirAsia often and they are always very strict with weight. Kind of pisses me off when I see a 25+kg overweight bloke slide by free and easy - weight is weight, is it not? I find it dollar wise to pay for an extra 10 kg (22 lbs) when I book my flight online, typically an extra $25-$40 for a regional flight which is far less than the punitive penalty you'll pay at the check in counter.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1609031]I've flown AirAsia often and they are always very strict with weight. Kind of pisses me off when I see a 25+kg overweight bloke slide by free and easy - weight is weight, is it not? I find it dollar wise to pay for an extra 10 kg (22 lbs) when I book my flight online, typically an extra $25-$40 for a regional flight which is far less than the punitive penalty you'll pay at the check in counter.[/QUOTE]Hutsori,

Have you sat next to me? LOL.

I use Air Asia a bit (as well as Cebu Pacific, but never PAL), yes strict but sometimes a nice smile and gentle banter helps. For the hand baggage I say I have 2 laptops and never been checked. Extra kilos purchased online are much cheaper than at airport. I regularly see passengers (mainly Korean and Japanese) having to unpack / repack their bags by the counter as the airline is strict. Always makes me smile.

Yes, a smile is the most universally accepted currency. All cultures accept it! And please & thank you in their language has the greatest exchange rate, beside it just being polite.

Happy hunting fred.

QUOTE=Wicked Roger;1609053 Hutsori.

Have you sat next to me? LOL.

I use Air Asia a bit (as well as Cebu Pacific, but never PAL), yes strict but sometimes a nice smile and gentle banter helps. For the hand baggage I say I have 2 laptops and never been checked. Extra kilos purchased online are much cheaper than at airport. I regularly see passengers (mainly Korean and Japanese) having to unpack / repack their bags by the counter as the airline is strict. Always makes me smile.

Returning back to the us from phi any issues at customs for single male traveler. Do they get nosy?

[QUOTE=Kman1;1611170]Returning back to the us from phi any issues at customs for single male traveler. Do they get nosy?[/QUOTE]Don't sweat that. You're a tourist.

[QUOTE=Kman1;1611170]Returning back to the us from phi any issues at customs for single male traveler. Do they get nosy?[/QUOTE]I've never had any problems entering LA but they are nosy. There have been a few reports here of them checking your cell phone and or computer for stuff. Make sure you have no images saved you don't want to share.

[QUOTE=TallyWacker;1611205]I've never had any problems entering LA but they are nosy. There have been a few reports here of them checking your cell phone and or computer for stuff. Make sure you have no images saved you don't want to share.[/QUOTE]You can always encrypt the images and send them to the cloud and then reinstate them on your hard drive once clear of Customs and other snoops.

[QUOTE=Kman1;1611170]Returning back to the us from phi any issues at customs for single male traveler. Do they get nosy?[/QUOTE]I've never had any issues at San Francisco airport in the last ten trips. Once I got tagged for luggage search but it was fairly quick.

[QUOTE=DCups;1611369]I've never had any issues at San Francisco airport in the last ten trips. Once I got tagged for luggage search but it was fairly quick.[/QUOTE]I have been to several places and taken lots of video that I not need my mom to see. Or customs. No problem so far. I tinking of mailing my memory chips home.

Anybody do that? DHL or FEDEX?

I posted this in the "Living in the Philippines" thread but I will re-post it here so that more guys who are interested and / or contemplating a change will be more likely to see it.

This link is to The Age newspaper (in Australia).

http://www.theage.com.au/lifestyle/carry-on-abroad-20140818-3dv6x.html

[QUOTE=Laydher;1608666]The South Korean embassy in Manila expressed alarm Thursday at a rise in crimes against its nationals in the Philippines, citing the killing of nine South Koreans this year alone.[/QUOTE]I don't want to see physical harm to Koreans. I do want to see a big advertising campaign saying that PH citizens should be very suspect of those visiting from Korea. I've traveled 30+ countries and never seen "tourists" more horrible than Koreans in PH.

[QUOTE=WanderLuster;1611635]I don't want to see physical harm to Koreans. I do want to see a big advertising campaign saying that PH citizens should be very suspect of those visiting from Korea. I've traveled 30+ countries and never seen "tourists" more horrible than Koreans in PH.[/QUOTE]Sxxxx. Please see this and note the comments (as well as read my PM). I gather you have been PMing a few members saying we are naïve etc but others also think some Koreans are bad tourists in many ways. Go to Globe or Metro supermarket and watch them. Some are nice, many unfortunately are rude and arrogant (or ignorant).

[QUOTE=WanderLuster;1611635]I don't want to see physical harm to Koreans. I do want to see a big advertising campaign saying that PH citizens should be very suspect of those visiting from Korea. I've traveled 30+ countries and never seen "tourists" more horrible than Koreans in PH.[/QUOTE]I have been to Phil 28 times since 2004 and have personally been treated rudely by Koreans many times. I don't understand why they think they are better than anyone else. It's not ALL Koreans though. I use Korean Airlines exclusively and their flight attendants and Airline staff are very courteous. Of course they are getting paid to be nice. LOL.

[QUOTE=Nightrider1;1611723]I have been to Phil 28 times since 2004 and have personally been treated rudely by Koreans many times. I don't understand why they think they are better than anyone else. It's not ALL Koreans though. I use Korean Airlines exclusively and their flight attendants and Airline staff are very courteous. Of course they are getting paid to be nice. LOL.[/QUOTE]Cheer up, m8. It's not as dire as it seems. Sure they detest you. But they loathe each other even more.

There has been debate on the effectiveness of any Philippine university and its abilities to compete on the wider stage (ie Asia not the world!

The latest QS survey seems to suggest that the previous conclusions on the low standards etc are true if this survey is to be given credence. Those who understand the education sector in the country will know more and may offer more informed comment.

The links below are self explanatory In the Asia's top 300 so few Philippines institutions (Ateneo Manila, De la Salle and Ateneo Davao only in the top 300 and then around 150 and well below) but look at the score on the box and see it is below 50 so really IMHO this shows that universities here are failing their students.

Juts a thought for those who sponsor a cutie to get a degree. Which is very important for many who get it and their families but in the wider competitive world?

[URL]http://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/asian-university-rankings/2014[/URL]#sorting=rank+region=+country=+faculty=+stars=false+search=.

[URL]http://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/asian-university-rankings/2014[/URL]#sorting=rank+region=+country=+faculty=+stars=false+search=.

Now am sure the methodology of assessing each university will be questioned and I am no expert but this is just for information for those who are interested.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1611973]. . .< SNIP > . . .

Now am sure the methodology of assessing each university will be questioned and I am no expert but this is just for information for those who are interested.[/QUOTE]A major criterion in the QS ranking is [B]research quantum[/B]. Unless any University has a high proportion of spending on research then its ranking will drop, as has happened for Australian Universities with their large reduction in research budgets as a result of government cuts.

QS ranking is not a worthwhile means to assess whether your support for any filipina is well-placed unless you are generous enough to be subsidising a place in the private schools mentioned by WR.

Most of the regional universities are not even ranked once you get to place 300 or so in the Asian rankings. They are all just lumped together as "more than 300".

A much better measure is to look at the employment outcomes for a University or College; how many graduates actually pass the Licensure exams for entry to the various professions, such as Education, Law, Nursing, Engineering, Surveying. How many actually get jobs [B]in the profession in which they trained[/B].

This date is available from the Commission for Higher Education (CHED) or the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) websites. Philippines Business for Education (PBEd) also has a useful set of data on its website. Note that it doesn't include those with, for example, teaching degrees who are working in call centers.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1611998]

A much better measure is to look at the employment outcomes for a University or College; how many graduates actually pass the Licensure exams for entry to the various professions, such as Education, Law, Nursing, Engineering, Surveying. How many actually get jobs in the profession in which they trained.[/QUOTE]I agree. I explained a few years ago why the QS research design is flawed. It is tremendously over-represented by American and British evaluators. Participation is voluntary and there is no apparent effort to control for representativeness in the analysis. I was encouraged to participate from a particular Korean university with which I have had some interaction in the past. For the last two weeks before the deadline to participate they bombarded me with emails lauding all their wonderful programs, explanations as to the importance of the QS ranking, and convenient hotlinks to the online survey. I do not want to participate under those circumstances. I am sure there are several other participants on the Phils board who would be eligible to participate, but it would have been no less a waste of their time.

As RK points out, outcomes--actual placement rates--are far better indicators than prestige ratings or schools' strategic abilities to market themselves.

BTW, UP, at 63rd, actually ranked highest among the Philippine schools. Despite paying their faculty less competitive salaries, they are simply most selective in their admission of students. Brightest students coming in are pretty much the brightest students going out. Unfortunately, this tends to perpetuate class relations in the Phils, since the quality of high school preparation is heavily skewed toward private schools. A kid from a poor provincial public school who gets admitted to UP has gotten there on the basis of hard work and truly fast-firing synapses. I've been told that there was a previous policy to automatically extend acceptance to the top three finishers in every high school in the country. But that is no longer so--for reasons both good and bad.

If we conflate job placement and educational quality, then the former might be a definitive criterion. Of course, we would also want to consider the quality of the jobs obtained, and that consideration might skew the results negatively, since, cat least in my view, spending four years, for example, obtaining an HRM degree and subsequently securing a job as a waitress might cause one to question the value of a degree.

I would argue however that ascribing too much value to "placement" carries with it the strong implication that a primary function of a university is vocational, whereas I still retain the (perhaps overly idealistic) belief that intellectual development remains a university's primary function, and in that regard most tertiary institutions here fail miserably. The reasons for this are well known to many of us who have worked with schools here: inadequate physical plants, poorly trained faculty, lockstep curricula, inconsistent language (s) of instruction, minimal exposure to art, music, literature, and discouragement of intellectual curiosity.

Granted that virtually all surveys are based on core values or criteria with which reasonable people may disagree. I would argue however, that this survey's assessment of universities here is accurate.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1612339]

Granted that virtually all surveys are based on core values or criteria with which reasonable people may disagree. I would argue however, that this survey's assessment of universities here is accurate.

GE.[/QUOTE]Glad to see the more knowledgeable members such as GE and RK help me understand this better.

Any survey can be skewered as many governments in the world know.

What I find interesting is that none of the local press has picked up on tis survey regardless of how robust it is / is not. More chatter about the Pope again, Pacman being picked in the basketball draft (is he really a politician looking after his constituents?) plus the normal pork barrel and MRT woes.

I think it was the Singaporean president who said that education was the most important asset to his country and to his people hence the system there is held up as one of the best on the world (well according a recent documentary I saw on the Australian network). Sadly nt the case here methinks.

Skip. Apologies must have missed UP higher in the list (so make it 4 in the top 300).

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1612339]. . .
I would argue however that ascribing too much value to "placement" carries with it the strong implication that a primary function of a university is vocational, whereas I still retain the (perhaps overly idealistic) belief that intellectual development remains a university's primary function, and in that regard most tertiary institutions here fail miserably. . . . [/QUOTE]I too have your (overly idealistic) belief GE but unfortunately this primary function of a university is rapidly being eroded in other countries by governments that simply do not get it.

The Australian HE system is being transformed into a group of prestige career providers; research funds are being cut; there is no longer any central science agency responsible for R & D, and we seem to be following the UK.

Re placement as a criterion: I was responding to WR's point that guys should check up on the quality of the qualifications of the institutions in which they are sponsoring students. In the Philippines, that simply means "will they get a job at the end of the course?" To use GE's example, if an HRM degree gets someone a job as a waitress in preference to an applicant without a degree then I guess we have to say it helps. But it's rather sad to contemplate.

i'm just researching to go to philippines, around nov / dec for about 2 months and if i like it i can stay another month or two. i was going to go last year, but the back to back earthquake and hurricane put me off a bit.

my primary objective is not really going to girlie bars all day long, although i frequent them occasionally, but i like a bit of night life and clubs with fl and semis. i have travelled around and know the ropes but never been to philli.

for various reasons i don't want to be moving around, i need to rent a condo as a base (with good electric and internet connection) and then can make 3/4 days trips every now and then to see other places.

aside from girls i like to be in a walking distance to a nice beach and to night life, a few nearby bars for a few drinks and playing pool, but also not too far places (if possible) for swimming, snorkelling, fishing (from the shore), may be some [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord121][CodeWord121][/url] (not that kind, the wind or kite surfing, boogy board, dingy sailing type etc.). i probably rent a bike and can make short trips around, but not too far. i know it's hard to have everything in one place, but hope to have a few at least. as i am there a long time, i like to do the normal things too, like going shopping, half-descend market, restaurant, cinema and so on.

i am not a big fan of big cities, but looking at various options in philli i am considering cebu as a base. but i don't see any nice beaches in walking distance there. someone who i know and travelled across phili suggested puerto galera, but it seems to me a very small place (not sure he was suggesting sabong beach or the pg city itself!

well, to make it easy for those who are familiar with los, patong in phuket is my ideal place (it almost has all the above i mentioned), before you say i should go there, i have already. many times / months, so looking for a change and also travel to a new country i always wanted to visit.

any answer / opinion would be appreciated with a few pros / cons.

I doubt that the topic of the quality of local tertiary institutions is of interest to more than a handful of forum readers, but it's obviously a topic of more than passing concern to RK, WR, and perhaps a few others in addition to me.

I've had an opportunity fairly recently to spend a bit of time at Diliman, and with some of its senior faculty, all of whom received their doctorates outside of this country. There's no doubt that they're extremely capable, highly intelligent, and committed teachers. There's also little doubt however that they are not representative of most tertiary faculty members around the country. Then too, though they're anomalies here, they would be nothing extraordinary in Western (and likely Singaporean or Japanese) institutions. My guess is that comparing Diliman--the best that this place has to offer--with the gamut of universities in the states, it would be roughly equivalent with a mediocre, middle-rung university. It's facilities are, to be kind, out-of-date and poorly maintained. There's little or no budget for sending faculty to international conferences, and research facilities, such as they are, are wholly inadequate or so my discussions with staff would suggest.

The simple fact is that there's absolutely no equivalence of investment in tertiary education between this country and other countries that place a higher value on and take pride in quality education. This is reflected in the anemic budgets for public education at all levels. The larger tragedy of course is that the country consistently fails to develop its human capital, thus dooming itself to lagging ever further behind those countries that do make the investment and reap the rewards.

GE.

[quote=uzinuzin;1612396]i'm just researching to go to philippines, around nov / dec for about 2 months and if i like it i can stay another month or two. i was going to go last year, but the back to back earthquake and hurricane put me off a bit.

my primary objective is not really going to girlie bars all day long, although i frequent them occasionally, but i like a bit of night life and clubs with fl and semis. i have travelled around and know the ropes but never been to philli.

for various reasons i don't want to be moving around, i need to rent a condo as a base (with good electric and internet connection) and then can make 3/4 days trips every now and then to see other places.

aside from girls i like to be in a walking distance to a nice beach and to night life, a few nearby bars for a few drinks and playing pool, but also not too far places (if possible) for swimming, snorkelling, fishing (from the shore), may be some [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord121][CodeWord121][/url] (not that kind, the wind or kite surfing, boogy board, dingy sailing type etc.). i probably rent a bike and can make short trips around, but not too far. i know it's hard to have everything in one place, but hope to have a few at least. as i am there a long time, i like to do the normal things too, like going shopping, half-descend market, restaurant, cinema and so on.

i am not a big fan of big cities, but looking at various options in philli i am considering cebu as a base. but i don't see any nice beaches in walking distance there. someone who i know and travelled across phili suggested puerto galera, but it seems to me a very small place (not sure he was suggesting sabong beach or the pg city itself!

well, to make it easy for those who are familiar with los, patong in phuket is my ideal place (it almost has all the above i mentioned), before you say i should go there, i have already. many times / months, so looking for a change and also travel to a new country i always wanted to visit.

any answer / opinion would be appreciated with a few pros / cons.[/quote]cagayan de oro is the place you out of go. nice bars with beautiful ladies. just out of town is the.

longest zipline in asia. nearby is rafting the cagayan river, which is a kick. hiking and caves. stay at victoria suites 800/ night and they are used to ladies coming and going. i give everyone tips to stay happy. good luck. i will also be there in november. i need to pick up some things and then going to circumnavigate samar. did mindanao last year. that is when i discovered cdo. never had so much fun. videoed a room full of naked ho's. he he he.

[quote=goodenough;1612398]i doubt that the topic of the quality of local tertiary institutions is of interest to more than a handful of forum readers, but it's obviously a topic of more than passing concern to rk, wr, and perhaps a few others in addition to me.
.... snip....
the larger tragedy of course is that the country consistently fails to develop its human capital, thus dooming itself to lagging ever further behind those countries that do make the investment and reap the rewards. ge.[/quote]thanks guys. it's a topic of a bit more than a passing concern to me. because like several other members' posts, a look beneath the surface helps on a daily basis coping with this place, interacting with the locals, and just trying to stay sane.

secondly, since i'm not much into the point-and-dick stuff, aspiring students are a favorite demographic, and i've been able to help out a few. but i always thought that in the event i found someone i was fond of for more than just casual shagging, besides just short term spending money, one of the only things i could bring to the table would be letting her continue or pick up her education again. so that way, in the end when it comes time to get off that train, i would hope she'd be better off than she was when i got on, as opposed to having just wasted allot of her time and my money "studying". so that stuff helps, thanks again.

[quote=uzinuzin;1612396]i am not a big fan of big cities, but looking at various options in philli i am considering cebu as a base. but i don't see any nice beaches in walking distance there.
....snip....
well, to make it easy for those who are familiar with los, patong in phuket is my ideal place (it almost has all the above i mentioned), before you say i should go there, i have already. many times / months, so looking for a change and also travel to a new country i always wanted to visit.

any answer / opinion would be appreciated with a few pros / cons.[/quote]you described the place i been searching for about 2 years. there is no phuket or the old samui here, at least not that i know of. most nice beach places are either tourist traps, or you'd be extremely lucky to find real mustard in the supermarket. ge put it politely in the last part of his post. but you may find it hopeless before long, especially if you're used to what you described. it takes a certain type of person to stay here very long.

the visayas sound like your best bet so ya, you can land in cebu which is allot easier. i don't know about cdo, stopped in a few times, seems a bit gritty especially if you don't like bigger cities. but i don't recommend mindanao, westcoast just mentioned it in the other places thread. it's too conservative, the rest is dangerous, and it's mostly impossible to rent a motorcycle. davao is over crowded, noisy, smokey, and the beach stinks. think about tagbilaran. . big mall, colleges, beaches. or dumaguete, restaurants, nice apartments for cheap, beaches, mountains. not great for girl hunting, but they're there. province chicks in the hills and siquijoir. and you can jump a speedboat to cebu from either place. very few other places rent motorcycles, but the places i mentioned do. if you buy one, then you have that anchor around your neck anytime you want to transfer to another island.

the weather gets good on luzon that time if year, la unoin may work for you. there's a whole intersection packed with bars and chicks in case you get in a pinch.

all the best, let us know how it goes.

[QUOTE=Uzinuzin;1612396]I'm just researching to go to Philippines, around Nov / Dec for about 2 months and if I like it I can stay another month or two. I was going to go last year, but the back to back earthquake and hurricane put me off a bit.

My primary objective is not really going to girlie bars all day long, although I frequent them occasionally, but I like a bit of night life and clubs with FL and Semis. I have travelled around and know the ropes but never been to Philli.

/ cons.[/QUOTE]My Vote is 3 places:

Near to Subic, access to Angeles and its open clean and fresh.

Davoa is the nicest small city I have been to but hard to get laid professionally.

Cebu is not bad with close access to Bohol and Dumagete.

From Cebu lots of trips by Ferry are availble but Cebu is fast becoming Manila and Greater Manila is a shit hole of Epic portions!

PP.

Thanks for the replies, I look into all suggested locations and probably come back with a few more specific queries.

What travelogue did you watch? I wouldn't even go in the water there.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1613268]What travelogue did you watch? I wouldn't even go in the water there.[/QUOTE]Me too am curious.

As recent as a year ago, a Ship service company was caught discharging waste water directly into the sea, meeting local laws, I. E. 2 km from the shore!

E

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1613286]Me too am curious.

As recent as a year ago, a Ship service company was caught discharging waste water directly into the sea, meeting local laws, I. E. 2 km from the shore!

E[/QUOTE]I was in Subic a while back looking for a place and travelled to the North.

I further researched it and the further north you go from Subic, the less people and the more wildlands you encounter whihc is what I like, clean and fresh with few people. Have a look at the area on Google Earth.

PP.

[QUOTE=Pinaypounder;1613516]I was in Subic a while back looking for a place and travelled to the North.

I further researched it and the further north you go from Subic, the less people and the more wildlands you encounter whihc is what I like, clean and fresh with few people. Have a look at the area on Google Earth.

PP.[/QUOTE]Ya, years ago I went to Hundred Islands. It was nice but definitely bring your own girl. You can rent a boat and have a private beach.

I posted this link on another thread too.

For those of you looking for alternative things to do in the Philippines, see this link:

[URL]http://www.expatch.org/2014/08/21/rewind-the-top-100-places-to-visit-in-the-philippines/[/URL]

I had a local tell me that going south also provide nice alternatives.

[QUOTE=Pinaypounder;1613516]I was in Subic a while back looking for a place and travelled to the North.

I further researched it and the further north you go from Subic, the less people and the more wildlands you encounter whihc is what I like, clean and fresh with few people. Have a look at the area on Google Earth.

PP.[/QUOTE]

I just read somewhere that the companies that offer the SIM + 3 G Data tariff for internet connection block certain ports and protocols like VPN.

I thought I can use the 3 G Data plans as a backup for Skype, VoIP, VPN, RDP, SSH or other random ports / protocols, is there any techy IT guy out there that could tell me if these operations are really blocked on 3 G? For example on SIMs from Globe, Smart etc.

I presume these are not blocked on the land-line broadband ADS / DSL services?

I assume there are several different mobile providers. What company do people think is the most value for data and voice. 3 G is good enough for me.

HAPPY HUNTING FRED.

[QUOTE=Uzinuzin;1613818]I just read somewhere that the companies that offer the SIM + 3 G Data tariff for internet connection block certain ports and protocols like VPN.

I thought I can use the 3 G Data plans as a backup for Skype, VoIP, VPN, RDP, SSH or other random ports / protocols, is there any techy IT guy out there that could tell me if these operations are really blocked on 3 G? For example on SIMs from Globe, Smart etc.

I presume these are not blocked on the land-line broadband ADS / DSL services?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=FredGold;1613839]I assume there are several different mobile providers. What company do people think is the most value for data and voice. 3 G is good enough for me.

HAPPY HUNTING FRED.[/QUOTE]Smart or Globe are the main carriers, however, which is best depends on the area you will be for coverage purposes.

[QUOTE=Uzinuzin;1613818]I just read somewhere that the companies that offer the SIM + 3 G Data tariff for internet connection block certain ports and protocols like VPN.

I thought I can use the 3 G Data plans as a backup for Skype, VoIP, VPN, RDP, SSH or other random ports / protocols, is there any techy IT guy out there that could tell me if these operations are really blocked on 3 G? For example on SIMs from Globe, Smart etc.

I presume these are not blocked on the land-line broadband ADS / DSL services?[/QUOTE]I use a Globe DSL and nothing is blocked including Cisco IP VPN and safe net, apart from Skype, whatsapp and all.

Same for 3 G smart, no issues.

BTW, I am semi network engineer so trust me, the days of blocking are long gone, in most countries. Except some Middle East nations, Vietnam (still maybe), Cambodia.

[quote=freefly55;1613905]smart or globe are the main carriers, however, which is best depends on the area you will be for coverage purposes.[/quote]i have both smart and globe on post paid contracts, and they're equally ineffective. i would say that they're roughly equivalent in terms of slow speeds, incidence (frequent) of dropped calls, and often poor voice quality. i'm convinced the reason for the ineffective (and mostly unacceptable) level of service is that there's simply no pay off to making the necessary investments. most filipinos text rather than call, and i'm guessing that the paid subscriber base for premium services is relatively small. the same is true for internet services here, where 5 mbps is considered quite fast, and streaming video without frequent interruptions is unusual.

ge.

I will only be in manila area. Well over 80+% of time. Which do you recommend or are both equally bad?

Thanks.

[QUOTE=FreeFly55;1613905]Smart or Globe are the main carriers, however, which is best depends on the area you will be for coverage purposes.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=FredGold;1614015]I will only be in manila area. Well over 80+% of time. Which do you recommend or are both equally bad?

Thanks.[/QUOTE]I had zero signal on smart in Citadel hotel, but Globe had full signal.

I got the smart pocket WIFI, and that has better reception regardless other facts. PHP one wii'.

[QUOTE=FredGold;1614015]I will only be in manila area. Well over 80+% of time. Which do you recommend or are both equally bad?

Thanks.[/QUOTE]Without making it more complicated, imagine a certain company owns a lot of malls and car parks and hotels in and around Makati and also parts of Manila, not forgetting ownership of some commercial buildings too. They have a rather large thoroughfare in Makati named in their honour. Well given that they actually built the road it sees reasonable.

Now imagine that same company also owns a telcom company.

So guess whos signal they promote and lets be kind, and says, guess who's signals they don't block, but don't actively promote either.

This maybe of help depending on where you are going to be.

Seems like some kind of inside joke. Those of us who don't live or hang out in Makati have no idea what you're on about. So does Smart ave. Turn onto Ayala Ave, or does Globe Blvd turn into. Whatever. Without making it more complicated indeed.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1614047]Without making it more complicated, imagine a certain company owns a lot of malls and car parks and hotels in and around Makati and also parts of Manila, not forgetting ownership of some commercial buildings too. They have a rather large thoroughfare in Makati named in their honour. Well given that they actually built the road it sees reasonable.

Now imagine that same company also owns a telcom company.

So guess whos signal they promote and lets be kind, and says, guess who's signals they don't block, but don't actively promote either.

This maybe of help depending on where you are going to be.[/QUOTE]

Hi guys,

Can I buy a sim card at the airport. Please also guide me as to which company sim card should I buy with a package that gives me internet facility to check my e-mails, face book etc whenever I am not in my hotel using Wifi.

In which area are the fish bowls pick ups located and what are the exisiting rates for the night. My last time in Manila was many years ago.

Thanks

[QUOTE=XMan;1614104]Seems like some kind of inside joke. Those of us who don't live or hang out in Makati have no idea what you're on about. So does Smart ave. Turn onto Ayala Ave, or does Globe Blvd turn into. Whatever. Without making it more complicated indeed.[/QUOTE]Not complicated X, easy a Ayala have a shareholding in Globe (who have SingTel as a major shareholder) and a FF says the globe reception is generally better in those malls than any other operator.

Personally Fred I would choose Globe. I find Smart has more drop off calls and too many subscribers make for a slow service at times IMHO.

[quote=econotech;1613932]i use a globe dsl and nothing is blocked including cisco ip vpn and safe net, apart from skype, whatsapp and all.

same for 3 g smart, no issues.

btw, i am semi network engineer so trust me, the days of blocking are long gone, in most countries. except some middle east nations, vietnam (still maybe), cambodia.[/quote]thanks for the info, i was in uae last year and they block skype there on their 3 g (international call was very expensive, hence the block) - purely for business, comms companies work together like a cartel.

in cambodia there was no problem at all, best 3 g ever, really cheap, i recall topping up us $2 every few days for calls and data. good speed and no drops, it's basically because there aren't many users. many people can't afford it. like building a brand new highway and not many cars in it! (i bet it won't last very long).

for those asking which sim to buy in philippine, from what i understand it's really cheap, so you but one of each !

[QUOTE=Tercar66;1614118]Hi guys,

Can I buy a sim card at the airport. Please also guide me as to which company sim card should I buy with a package that gives me internet facility to check my e-mails, face book etc whenever I am not in my hotel using Wifi.

In which area are the fish bowls pick ups located and what are the exisiting rates for the night. My last time in Manila was many years ago.

Thanks[/QUOTE]You can buy a sim pretty much anywhere. I had an airport cop offer me one as I was changing money. Always check the convenience stores and small grocers if you don't see a mobile shop. I think the wisest investment one can make is to get a dual-sim mobile and use both a smart and globe sim. Of course a dual-sim mobile is a single point of failure if it gets lost or is stolen. Having two phones, one for each network, gives you redundancy. A smart sim is p40, and I'm sure globe is about the same. The telcos offer all kinds of enticements to their network users that you can use by having both sims, for example smart has a deal for p250 which you can text all networks for 30 days but the 180 minutes of voice doesn't include globe. BTW, if you purchase a sim just before leaving the Philippines, and don't use it, you'll have a useable sim for your next arrival.

Hi guys,

I've got a fetish for grannies and MILFs, how much do you think I should be asking for long time from this group. Also, where is a good place to find this group? Because they aren't at the bars very much.

Thanks

[QUOTE=Matthew4004;1614307]Hi guys,

I've got a fetish for grannies and MILFs, how much do you think I should be asking for long time from this group. Also, where is a good place to find this group? Because they aren't at the bars very much.

Thanks[/QUOTE]Sorry I forgot to say that I'm coming for about 10-12 days and I want to be getting about 2 or 3 long time sessions in a day with grannies or MILFs if possible. Probably have them coming back to fill in the gaps between finding new ones.

Where is good for finding women over 50?

I would assume mature hookers would be a bit cheaper wouldn't they?

How much do you think that will set me back per day? Do you think a budget of $75 would make that possible? Basically I want to be in bed all day for 12 days straight.

I know there is dateinasia.com, are there any others as good?, plentyoffish isn't super active.

Thanks

[QUOTE=Matthew4004;1614307]Hi guys,

I've got a fetish for grannies and MILFs, how much do you think I should be asking for long time from this group. Also, where is a good place to find this group? Because they aren't at the bars very much.

Thanks[/QUOTE]Join a dating site and read craig's list casual encounters. I get plenty of messages from that age group who are desperately looking for a shag. Shouldn't cost you a thing.

Hi guys,

How cheap do you think I could get a girl to come over everyday for a week for 4 hours at a time to wake me up every morning.

I like the idea of having 3 girls a day for 4 hours at a time.

I'm talking about MILFs from my corner, but I'd be curious about girls too.

Thanks

[QUOTE=Matthew4004;1614307]Hi guys,

I've got a fetish for grannies and MILFs, how much do you think I should be asking for long time from this group. Also, where is a good place to find this group? Because they aren't at the bars very much.

Thanks[/QUOTE]In what area?

[QUOTE=Matthew4004;1614307]Hi guys,

I've got a fetish for grannies and MILFs, how much do you think I should be asking for long time from this group. Also, where is a good place to find this group? Because they aren't at the bars very much.

Thanks[/QUOTE]Alas you don't have PM or I can PM you an informal mama who does my bidding in Manila, including my request once for a 45 year girl who I can screw.

She does deliver my requests.

Plan be, as suggested, pay for a date site, membership and state what you want, you should get it.

[QUOTE=Matthew4004;1614307]Hi guys,

I've got a fetish for grannies and MILFs, how much do you think I should be asking for long time from this group. Also, where is a good place to find this group? Because they aren't at the bars very much.

Thanks[/QUOTE]If you're too cheap to get a membership here, you're too cheap to get a membership at a decent dating site. I'm surprised two very senior members here responded to your inquiry with any degree of courtesy. Finally, if you don't even know where to find this "group" in the Philippines, you've never been here. If you have, start going to church.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1614396]If you're too cheap to get a membership here, you're too cheap to get a membership at a decent dating site. I'm surprised two very senior members here responded to your inquiry with any degree of courtesy. Finally, if you don't even know where to find this "group" in the Philippines, you've never been here. If you have, start going to church.[/QUOTE]LOL he has 2 FR both questions, in the UAE forum that is called 'manager class'.

But Slippery, church is good to get cuties a well. I should know I used to 'go' to church in the UAE. Dropped one off and offered my car as a taxi to the pretty ones leaving. I may burn in hell but it was fun while I was there LOL.

It is fun in the Philippines!

[URL]http://www.rappler.com/move-ph/67569-people-disability-service-dog-mall-access?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=referral[/URL]

BTW on another site the vast local majority have decided the foreigner is guilty.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1614276] SNIP
The telcos offer all kinds of enticements to their network users that you can use by having both sims, for example smart has a deal for p250 which you can text all networks for 30 days but the 180 minutes of voice doesn't include globe. BTW, if you purchase a sim just before leaving the Philippines, and don't use it, you'll have a useable sim for your next arrival.[/QUOTE]The Smart deal, MEGA250, also includes 100 mb of data; granted that's not much, but adequate if you need to check email (s) or if you get lost and need to get back on track via Google maps. To get it, at least back in the spring when I was last there, text: MEGA250 to this number: 2477 (you may want to verify that the promo is still running via the Smart website. Google it). And you can always buy more data if needed.

Obviously you need to have a 250 p load on your phone before taking advantage of the above offer. That brings me to another point, in addition to buying a new sim card (as Hut's suggested) you may also consider buying a load card (even if you don't get a new sim and want to use your old sim); I generally get the 300 p one that Smart offers. If you do get a new sim card and / or a load card, check on the back for the expiration date. Most are good for at least 1 year so make sure you get a fresh one and not one that's about to expire.

One other tip, be sure to turn cellular data OFF unless you are actively using it otherwise you will burn up your data time and / or load. I made that mistake on my first visit. I couldn't figure out where my 500 p load went after a few days (this was before I learned about the MEGA250 deal). Turned out that I was being charged something like 7 or 10 p every 30 minutes for data. At least when I went to the Smart service center in one of the malls the cute girl there was not only kind enough to tell me about the MEGA250 deal, but she put it onto my for phone for free to compensate me for my own ignorance, LOL (2 nights later she also got dinner, a shag and nice tip too; insert big grin).

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1614519]Turned out that I was being charged something like 7 or 10 p every 30 minutes for data. At least when I went to the Smart service center in one of the malls the cute girl there was not only kind enough to tell me about the MEGA250 deal, but she put it onto my for phone for free to compensate me for my own ignorance, LOL (2 nights later she also got dinner, a shag and nice tip too; insert big grin).[/QUOTE]Pip, you dog. You mean its possible to head into a mall, find a pretty, young filipina behind the counter, sweet-talk her, slip her your phone number, and a night or two later she might end up in your bed being as nawty as can be on camera? Dammit man, I've never experienced such a thing (see pic for proof). What will the basement-gents, sitting at home reading this, think of filipine culture now?

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1614276]You can buy a sim pretty much anywhere. I had an airport cop offer me one as I was changing money. Always check the convenience stores and small grocers if you don't see a mobile shop. I think the wisest investment one can make is to get a dual-sim mobile and use both a smart and globe sim. Of course a dual-sim mobile is a single point of failure if it gets lost or is stolen. Having two phones, one for each network, gives you redundancy. A smart sim is p40, and I'm sure globe is about the same. The telcos offer all kinds of enticements to their network users that you can use by having both sims, for example smart has a deal for p250 which you can text all networks for 30 days but the 180 minutes of voice doesn't include globe. BTW, if you purchase a sim just before leaving the Philippines, and don't use it, you'll have a useable sim for your next arrival.[/QUOTE]To hutsori.

That is funny Airport cop offer you sell you a phone card I have a Airport security offer to change money one time at Clark arrive at midnight all money exchange is closed, I just need some money for taxi and he try to rip me off.

Fast eddie 48.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1614562]Pip, you dog. You mean its possible to head into a mall, find a pretty, young filipina behind the counter, sweet-talk her, slip her your phone number, and a night or two later she might end up in your bed being as nawty as can be on camera? Dammit man, I've never experienced such a thing (see pic for proof). What will the basement-gents, sitting at home reading this, think of filipine culture now?[/QUOTE]Mm, I never get so lucky.

Oh, because I unli Surf on Smart. LOL.

Maybe next visit I am going to Mega.

Thanks for the tip.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1612398]I doubt that the topic of the quality of local tertiary institutions is of interest to more than a handful of forum readers, but it's obviously a topic of more than passing concern to RK, WR, and perhaps a few others in addition to me.

I've had an opportunity fairly recently to spend a bit of time at Diliman, and with some of its senior faculty, /cut/
The larger tragedy of course is that the country consistently fails to develop its human capital, thus dooming itself to lagging ever further behind those countries that do make the investment and reap the rewards.

GE.[/QUOTE]Could one create a top-flight university in the Philippines, or are there not enough well-trained PhDs in the Philippines to do this? I've been pricing Quezon real estate rentals just for the better quality contacts available, based on your info. But I do want more than an upscale Jollibee's of a woman / women.

Some days I take things as they come, but some I just dream big.

I've heard many folks criticize Cebu Pacific for domestic flights, but in my experience, they sure surpass PAL in many ways. I just booked a one-way flight from Butuan to Kalibo online on the PAL website, and their website would not let me prepay baggage as part of the online booking. If you wait until the day of the flight, you must pay several times the prepaid fee to check your bags for both airlines, but at least with Cebu Pacific, you can just add the lower prepaid fee it to your online booking. With my PAL reservation, I had to make an international call (they wouldn't even let me use the US toll-free number) and give them my credit card info over the phone. What a pain in the ass!

Also, last time I booked a PAL flight online, when I was checking in, they made me leave the line to go to the ticket office to "verify" my credit card. They wanted to see the physical card. I almost missed my flight because of this nonsense! I've never had such problems with Cebu Pacific.

RG.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1615383]SNIP

With my PAL reservation, I had to make an international call (they wouldn't even let me use the US toll-free number) and give them my credit card info over the phone. What a pain in the ass!

Also, last time I booked a PAL flight online, when I was checking in, they made me leave the line to go to the ticket office to "verify" my credit card. They wanted to see the physical card. I almost missed my flight because of this nonsense! I've never had such problems with Cebu Pacific.

RG.[/QUOTE]It's more fun in Philippines. The list of scummy infrastructure and frustrating cultural issues continues.

Yet the one cultural issue that keeps me coming back for more also continues: pinay sex, happiness, and her desire to sex ISG guys who post pictures.

Mabuhay!

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1615383]I've heard many folks criticize Cebu Pacific for domestic flights, but in my experience, they sure surpass PAL in many ways. I just booked a one-way flight from Butuan to Kalibo online on the PAL website, and their website would not let me prepay baggage as part of the online booking. If you wait until the day of the flight, you must pay several times the prepaid fee to check your bags for both airlines, but at least with Cebu Pacific, you can just add the lower prepaid fee it to your online booking. With my PAL reservation, I had to make an international call (they wouldn't even let me use the US toll-free number) and give them my credit card info over the phone. What a pain in the ass!

Also, last time I booked a PAL flight online, when I was checking in, they made me leave the line to go to the ticket office to "verify" my credit card. They wanted to see the physical card. I almost missed my flight because of this nonsense! I've never had such problems with Cebu Pacific.

RG.[/QUOTE]I have only used PAL when I really had too (ie no choice) and I find it useless and frustrating especially if I book a flight for a cutie and I am not with her.

I tried to cancel a ticket with PAL and that proved useless as it refused to cancel it, the customer service person telling it could not handle the cancellation due to a ticket restriction that was not written on the web site or ticket (was a very weird and frustrating 45 minutes).

With PAL you have to visit a PAL office to verify the card. Completely ridiculous in this day and age. Verify to me means they need to see you with the card, check your ID etc but that can be done (if it must) at the check in counter. Same with the idiot issue of asking to see your ticket to leave the Philippines before you rive when you check in at any Asian airport ("welcome to the Philippines sir, when are you leaving" LOL).

Only in the Philippines.

[QUOTE=FredGold;1614015]I will only be in manila area. Well over 80+% of time. Which do you recommend or are both equally bad?

Thanks.[/QUOTE]I recommend a dual SIM phone with both. Black spots occur for both networks. In general I favor Globe with Smart as the backup. Smart is also the most popular amongst average girls. Better off girls are more discerning. If possible I use Globe for business / personal / data & Smart is used for mongering. But as I said if you're in a Globe blackspot switch to Smart (and vice versa). A decent dual sim Android phone is cheap. I can't imagine the drama of having to carry around two iPhones etc everywhere. YMMV.

If you're visiting then buy PHP1000 load on BOTH Globe & Smart & activate their respective unlimited internet deals for 30 day's. Switch between which is best signal in a given location.

AV.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1615383]I've heard many folks criticize Cebu Pacific for domestic flights, but in my experience, they sure surpass PAL in many ways.[/QUOTE]Always try to avoid legacy airlines such as PAL! Cebu Pacific has a three day cut-off before your flight to pay for your baggage online. One time I did miss the cut-off and had to pay during check-in. Upon review of my credit card statement, CP had charged my CC an extra amount which I promptly disputed. Never heard from CP one way or the other! This is the extent of any hassles I have had with CP.

Nice happy pictures WC1!

If you ask AV about phones, he's a fountain of info. Very detailed and specific info.

If you ask AV about bars, hotels, beaches. LOL.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1615654]I recommend a dual SIM phone with both. Black spots occur for both networks. In general I favor Globe with Smart as the backup. Smart is also the most popular amongst average girls. Better off girls are more discerning. If possible I use Globe for business / personal / data & Smart is used for mongering. But as I said if you're in a Globe blackspot switch to Smart (and vice versa). A decent dual sim Android phone is cheap. I can't imagine the drama of having to carry around two iPhones etc everywhere. YMMV.

If you're visiting then buy PHP1000 load on BOTH Globe & Smart & activate their respective unlimited internet deals for 30 day's. Switch between which is best signal in a given location.

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=XMan;1615739]If you ask AV about phones, he's a fountain of info. Very detailed and specific info.

If you ask AV about bars, hotels, beaches. LOL.[/QUOTE]X Man, Leaving pointlessly argumentative posts all around the forum is a good way to get yourself in trouble with Jackson. Again.

AV.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1615582]I have only used PAL when I really had too (ie no choice) and I find it useless and frustrating especially if I book a flight for a cutie and I am not with her.[/QUOTE]The card verification is needed now, if your card doesn't do a 3 D verification, via SmS with a OTP.

Here in SG, the only airline now enforcing physical card verification is Jet star and Cebu Pacific. Pal dfoeabt do it for tickets bought in SG!

[QUOTE=BukoMax;1615734]Nice happy pictures WC1![/QUOTE]Thanks BM. I'm a 'make-them-happy' kind-o-guy.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1615988]Thanks BM. I'm a 'make-them-happy' kind-o-guy.[/QUOTE]Why do you block out her pretty eyes? She married or something?

[QUOTE=BukoMax;1615734]Always try to avoid legacy airlines such as PAL! Cebu Pacific has a three day cut-off before your flight to pay for your baggage online. One time I did miss the cut-off and had to pay during check-in. Upon review of my credit card statement, CP had charged my CC an extra amount which I promptly disputed. Never heard from CP one way or the other! This is the extent of any hassles I have had with CP.
Nice happy pictures WC1![/QUOTE]I have used them both extensively and don't like either of them. On PAL I had enough miles to upgrade to business class last trip and still had to pay some bullshit fee. Then there were some old non-stop yappity yap Filipina broads behind me in business class that boarded from San Francisco to Manila that I had to threaten to shut up and they finally did. Yet PAL is the only non-stop direct airlines from San Francisco to Manila. Cebu Pacific, too, is run by a bunch of monkeys. I've had to cancel numerous flights with them due to changing schedule and never get a refund even when I go to their office next to Robinson's in Malate. Yet, they are the only low-cost carrier between Philippine cities. What's a guy to do? At least the CP flight attendants are cute. Man, would I like to bang some of those cuties.

Sorry if you feel that way, I just can't understand why your phone tech posts go into such great detail, but you seem reluctant to make any Philippine specific field reports. Maybe you're just a techie guy. Please refrain from over-generalizing. Just because I occasionally disagree with you, does not mean that I leave "argumentative posts all around the forum".

[QUOTE=Amavida;1615942]X Man, Leaving pointlessly argumentative posts all around the forum is a good way to get yourself in trouble with Jackson. Again.

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1615977]The card verification is needed now, if your card doesn't do a 3 D verification, via SmS with a OTP.

Here in SG, the only airline now enforcing physical card verification is Jet star and Cebu Pacific. Pal dfoeabt do it for tickets bought in SG![/QUOTE]SIA stipulate in their terms that you bring the card to check in although they've never requested it of me. I needed to book a flight this week, my Aussie visa card was rejected for payment online but my Philippines MasterCard had no issues. Why? Who knows.

AV.

[QUOTE=DCups;1616191]I Cebu Pacific, too, is run by a bunch of monkeys. I've had to cancel numerous flights with them due to changing schedule and never get a refund even when I go to their office next to Robinson's in Malate. Yet, they are the only low-cost carrier between Philippine cities.

At least the CP flight attendants are cute. Man, would I like to bang some of those cuties.[/QUOTE]Cebu Pacific never give a cash refund, has not done so for a long time. All you get is a 'travel credit' that is valid for a short time or you loose it. This is the reason why they are budget (well one of them at least. It does not like to return customers money and keeps in the fund hoping you won't use it).

Air Asia Zest also flies domestically and that has cheap flights (lots of advertisements recently) and is OK if it uses the Air Asia planes not the tatty and in need of TLC Zest planes rebranded.

Never expect much from budget airlines is my rule and then you are never disappointed. IT gets me from A to be safely then I am a happy camper. Everything else you should see as a bonus IMHO (and I fly a lot and I only fly budget when I pay for the ticket myself).

Yes some of the crews are cute and on an Air Asia flight internationally recently was playing a game of which 2 I would take first in a threesome LOL. Well it passed the time LOL.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1616366]Cebu Pacific never give a cash refund, has not done so for a long time. All you get is a 'travel credit' that is valid for a short time or you loose it. This is the reason why they are budget (well one of them at least. It does not like to return customers money and keeps in the fund hoping you won't use it).

Air Asia Zest also flies domestically and that has cheap flights (lots of advertisements recently) and is OK if it uses the Air Asia planes not the tatty and in need of TLC Zest planes rebranded.

Never expect much from budget airlines is my rule and then you are never disappointed. IT gets me from A to be safely then I am a happy camper. Everything else you should see as a bonus IMHO (and I fly a lot and I only fly budget when I pay for the ticket myself).

Yes some of the crews are cute and on an Air Asia flight internationally recently was playing a game of which 2 I would take first in a threesome LOL. Well it passed the time LOL.[/QUOTE]In my experience CP advertise promo special deals prices then cheerfully cancel the flight on the day leaving you stranded. I don't bother any more. Yes expect little of budget airlines & you won't be too disappointed.

AV.

anyone got the [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord116][CodeWord116][/url] on samar island in the philippines? i am starting a 5 month mc tour there in november. need a little help.

from monger bros. i plan to circumvent the island. my bike is there. i put it in storage after doing mindanao last year. uich is the subject of my soon to be published ebook. a sequel to "motorcycling in ghana" i published about last years trip. its on amazon. uhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. so anyone done samar. i hear it is the poorest region in all of philippines. god bless. if it wasn't for poverty, i would never get laid! can i have an amen?

[QUOTE=Amavida;1616241]SIA stipulate in their terms that you bring the card to check in although they've never requested it of me. I needed to book a flight this week, my Aussie visa card was rejected for payment online but my Philippines MasterCard had no issues. Why? Who knows.

AV.[/QUOTE]I had to provide the card at SIA check-in at Manila. Unfortunately the card I carry when travelling is different to my purchasing card. That caused all sorts of drama and I needed to sign some additional documentation to state that I would make good the payment on the actual card I was carrying. And I was in Biz class travelling on biz there was no mercy.

i read your book and it was fun. i am looking forward to your new one. i assume you will do another kindle edition.

[quote=lonely566;1617676]anyone got the [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord116][CodeWord116][/url] on samar island in the philippines? i am starting a 5 month mc tour there in november. need a little help.

from monger bros. i plan to circumvent the island. my bike is there. i put it in storage after doing mindanao last year. uich is the subject of my soon to be published ebook. a sequel to "motorcycling in ghana" i published about last years trip. its on amazon. uhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. so anyone done samar. i hear it is the poorest region in all of philippines. god bless. if it wasn't for poverty, i would never get laid! can i have an amen?[/quote]

[QUOTE=Mbsl65;1618007]I read your book and it was fun. I am looking forward to your new one. I assume you will do another Kindle edition.[/QUOTE]The next installment of the 5 part series will be out in about a week. "Motorcycling in Mindanao". This one is a little heavier on actual.

Nuts and bolts of Packing, driving, living on the road with a motorcycle. Also a lot more information on scoring babes when your 61.

Years old. LOL Thanks again. Lonely.

Done a search in here but can not find, tried searching uk Philippine Embassy site, can't find, can someone assist and point me to where the visa on arrival application on arival forms are to found (59 days) .

Thanks.

Col law.

[QUOTE=ColLaw;1618477]Done a search in here but can not find, tried searching uk Philippine Embassy site, can't find, can someone assist and point me to where the visa on arrival application on arival forms are to found (59 days). Thanks. Col law.[/QUOTE]The formal application like you use for a renewal is not needed when getting the visa at the airport (MNL or CEB). Simply present with your passport, the form they give you on the plane (completed of course), your itinerary or return ticket showing that will be departing (which they may not even ask for) and the respective amount in pesos (should be about p2,750). Once in MNL another guy didn't have pesos so they escorted him out to a money changer in the terminal; note that this was in the wee hours and it was not busy so I don't know if that was an usual practice for the BOI to do that.

[QUOTE=ColLaw;1618477]Done a search in here but can not find, tried searching uk Philippine Embassy site, can't find, can someone assist and point me to where the visa on arrival application on arival forms are to found (59 days) .

Thanks.

Col law.[/QUOTE]In addition to PJ's comments Col.

In Manila T1 the office is to the left of passport control just go in there say you want a 59 day visa, give the passport etc and wait. Cost around PHP 3000. Be patient as an officer has to go to the departure area to get the change. Really no joke (so allow 15 minutes for this).

In Cebu is also to the left of passport control.

Only when you renew in country are there forms to fill in (including character references for each applicant. Which would be interesting for some of us LOL).

I'm looking for a destination in Phil (or perhaps other SEA destination) where I can both rent a surfboard and find a good selection of compensated companionship. Ideal would be a surfer's analag to PG / Sabang, though I know that's a unique setup.

Some of the places I've read about that are ideal for learning / practicing surfing are:

Siargio.

San Juan, La Union.

Baler, Aurora.

Pundaquit, San Antionio, Zambales.

Babasgas Beach, Camarines Norte.

Is there good nightlife action at or near any of these places (or some other destination I've overlooked)?

(BTW, despite the low post count, I've actually been an occasional poster and regular lurker over the past several years, mostly in the Taiwan and Thailand forums, for what it's worth. Opted to open a new account recently after losing track of my password.).

[QUOTE=EratoGelato;1619040]I'm looking for a destination in Phil (or perhaps other SEA destination) where I can both rent a surfboard and find a good selection of compensated companionship. Ideal would be a surfer's analag to PG / Sabang, though I know that's a unique setup.[/QUOTE]I'll send you some info in PM, when you get PM.

[QUOTE=EratoGelato;1619040](BTW, despite the low post count, I've actually been an occasional poster and regular lurker over the past several years, mostly in the Taiwan and Thailand forums, for what it's worth. Opted to open a new account recently after losing track of my password.).[/QUOTE]Its worth something. What was your previous username?

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1619138]I'll send you some info in PM, when you get PM.

Its worth something. What was your previous username?[/QUOTE]I was Typhun in a former life.

I've just resubscribed, and can send / receive PMs again.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1619138]I'll send you some info in PM, when you get PM.[/QUOTE]He appears to have PM capability.

[QUOTE=EratoGelato;1619040]I'm looking for a destination in Phil (or perhaps other SEA destination) where I can both rent a surfboard and find a good selection of compensated companionship.

Snip..

Is there good nightlife action at or near any of these places (or some other destination I've overlooked)?
[/QUOTE]Don't know about the others you mentioned, but spent a week on Sairgao and there's nothing that I know of. And the local cuties are hard to get for obvious reasons. The surfer expat crew all have their little squeezes, but the pickins are slim. And it's just got the basics, there's really only 2 good restaurants. La Union on the other hand has one major intersection packed with bars. (8 km south of San Juan). You can go bang like a screen door in the wind there.

[QUOTE=EratoGelato;1619040]I'm looking for a destination in Phil (or perhaps other SEA destination) where I can both rent a surfboard and find a good selection of compensated companionship. Ideal would be a surfer's analag to PG / Sabang, though I know that's a unique setup.

Some of the places I've read about that are ideal for learning / practicing surfing are:

Siargio.

San Juan, La Union.

Baler, Aurora.

Pundaquit, San Antionio, Zambales.

Babasgas Beach, Camarines Norte.

Is there good nightlife action at or near any of these places (or some other destination I've overlooked)?

(BTW, despite the low post count, I've actually been an occasional poster and regular lurker over the past several years, mostly in the Taiwan and Thailand forums, for what it's worth. Opted to open a new account recently after losing track of my password.).[/QUOTE]Just hook up with a babe in Cebu City and take her wherever your going. If you had read my book: Motorcycling in Mindanao. You would know that and a lot more. Je je je.

Hi folks,

I have an iPhone 5 now (AT&T), and I will be getting my new iPhone 6 Plus this Friday. On Wednesday, Sep. 24, I am flying to the Philippines for 2 weeks. I am planning to sell my old iPhone 5, which will be unlocked. I have heard that the market for used iPhones is very hot in Asia, especially since now there are many sellers in the US due to the saturation caused by release of iPhone 6.

QUESTION: Do you think I can get a better price for my used iPhone in the Philippines or in the US? If Philippines would be better, where would I likely get a decent price? Any thoughts?

RG.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1620778]
QUESTION: Do you think I can get a better price for my used iPhone in the Philippines or in the US? If Philippines would be better, where would I likely get a decent price? Any thoughts?

RG.[/QUOTE]Ebay will give you a good idea of the current value of a used iPhone 5. Start there.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1620778]
QUESTION: Do you think I can get a better price for my used iPhone in the Philippines or in the US? If Philippines would be better, where would I likely get a decent price? Any thoughts?
RG.[/QUOTE]I don't think its a good idea to try dispose of it in the Phil's. The poor people will be trying to SELL you theirs. The well off insist on new. Asian people hate second hand. The country is overflowing with pawn shops that are overflowing with pawned cell phones.

You try [URL]Sulit.com[/URL] or one of the many other Philippine eBay clones but I don't think you'll have time.

Just my two centavos.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1620910]I don't think its a good idea to try dispose of it in the Phil's. The poor people will be trying to SELL you theirs. The well off insist on new. Asian people hate second hand. The country is overflowing with pawn shops that are overflowing with pawned cell phones.

You try [URL]Sulit.com[/URL] or one of the many other Philippine eBay clones but I don't think you'll have time.

Just my two centavos.

AV.[/QUOTE]My Ipad was stolen from a not so good girl some time back. It was to be collectable in a pawnshop in Robinson Malate. The girl stealing it got a heavy meet with the phil police in which I know one person with high ranks. Find my Ipad was working surprisingly well and the girl was into a situation she did not handled that well.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1620778]Hi folks,

I have an iPhone 5 now (AT&T), and I will be getting my new iPhone 6 Plus this Friday. On Wednesday, Sep. 24, I am flying to the Philippines for 2 weeks. I am planning to sell my old iPhone 5, which will be unlocked. I have heard that the market for used iPhones is very hot in Asia, especially since now there are many sellers in the US due to the saturation caused by release of iPhone 6.

QUESTION: Do you think I can get a better price for my used iPhone in the Philippines or in the US? If Philippines would be better, where would I likely get a decent price? Any thoughts?

RG.[/QUOTE]If you're staying in Makati you can check out the second-hand mobile shops at Makati Square (formerly Makati Cinema Square) on Pasong Tamo (aka Chino Roces) near Arnaiz St (aka Libertad). If you're staying in Ermita / Malate check out Harrison Plaza. You should be able to determine the local market's value of your mobile. Apple's network partners in the Philippines, Smart Communications and Globe Telecom, have yet to announce the availability of both iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus in their roster of devices bundled with postpaid LTE plans. Nonetheless, I believe the handsets will arrive locally in October or November 2014.

So, check out the prices in US, then check 'em in Manila, and decide where to sell.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1620948]My Ipad was stolen from a not so good girl some time back. It was to be collectable in a pawnshop in Robinson Malate. The girl stealing it got a heavy meet with the phil police in which I know one person with high ranks. Find my Ipad was working surprisingly well and the girl was into a situation she did not handled that well.[/QUOTE]How did you locate the iPad at the particular pawnshop? Tracking software? Or did the girl fess up?

Hi, first of all you can not sell AT&T locked phone without unlocking to be used by the local carriers. AT&T has an unlocking website and they do give you all kind of reason why they should not unlock the devices. Last week I went on and on with them regarding unlocking a Nokia 2520 tablet and no positive results after 10 phone calls, and several attempts. Now AT&T site locked me out for too many tries.

Selling an unlocked phone. In Makati or Cebu (Elizabeth Mall), you can get an above fair value for it. However, it needs to be unlocked.

BTW, AT&T will try to sell you a roaming package.

Morale of the story: Never buy a locked / contract phone.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1620778]Hi folks,

I have an iPhone 5 now (AT&T), and I will be getting my new iPhone 6 Plus this Friday. On Wednesday, Sep. 24, I am flying to the Philippines for 2 weeks. I am planning to sell my old iPhone 5, which will be unlocked. I have heard that the market for used iPhones is very hot in Asia, especially since now there are many sellers in the US due to the saturation caused by release of iPhone 6.

QUESTION: Do you think I can get a better price for my used iPhone in the Philippines or in the US? If Philippines would be better, where would I likely get a decent price? Any thoughts?

RG.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Mbsl65;1620980]Hi, first of all you can not sell AT&T locked phone without unlocking to be used by the local carriers. [/QUOTE]Really? Many of the second-hand shops can root the mobile and unlock it. There's always the chance they may brick the thing, of course.

There are two different version of IOS Phone unlocking.

#1 Carrier unlock = permanent and will not affect any warranty.

#2 Sof tunlock: Jailbreak and software unlocking with a pwn. This will go bakc to locking after any type of software udate. Also if you update the baseband, you may brick the phone.

I hope I made clear to you and others.

So, most of the unlockers do use software unlocking not carrier unlock. Carrier unlock only can be done via whitelist / blacklist method. I tunes access will be required.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1620992]Really? Many of the second-hand shops can root the mobile and unlock it. There's always the chance they may brick the thing, of course.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1620778]Hi folks, SNIP QUESTION: Do you think I can get a better price for my used iPhone in the Philippines or in the US? If Philippines would be better, where would I likely get a decent price? Any thoughts? RG.[/QUOTE]Sprint tried to upsell their international plan with me when I wanted my iPhone unlocked. I told them no, the rep tried again, but as this was during the a 30 day renewal trial period. I flatly told her no again and told her that if she tried to dissuade me again I would return the phone and switch to Verizon or AT&T. Within a few minutes they did their thing and then transferred me to Apple who had to finish the process. Hung up with them, re-booted the phone and had to enter a PUK code. It only took about 20-25 minutes total.

RG, instead of selling the phone why not use it to barter with one of those over priced hotties in EDSA or on Burgos; or for a multi day / night session with another lady?

[QUOTE=Mbsl65;1621021]There are two different version of IOS Phone unlocking.

#1 Carrier unlock = permanent and will not affect any warranty.

#2 Sof tunlock: Jailbreak and software unlocking with a pwn. This will go bakc to locking after any type of software udate. Also if you update the baseband, you may brick the phone.

I hope I made clear to you and others.

So, most of the unlockers do use software unlocking not carrier unlock. Carrier unlock only can be done via whitelist / blacklist method. I tunes access will be required.[/QUOTE]That's about as clear as getting directions to the other side of town from a Filipino.

I am a teacher on Skype and need wired internet. I have read some things about Internet in the Philippines. Most very negative. I really want to live there. I need at least 4 MB wired. Of course 10 would be better. People talk about 'fast' internet. Your fast could be my slow. So real understanding of the numbers is important. I really want to come and live there. Makati? Or wherever. Anyone who can contribute would really be helping me and I am sure others would like some real info. Thanks for any interest. I love ISG people.

[QUOTE=PirateMorgan;1621760]I am a teacher on Skype and need wired internet. I have read some things about Internet in the Philippines. Most very negative. I really want to live there. I need at least 4 MB wired. Of course 10 would be better. People talk about 'fast' internet. Your fast could be my slow. So real understanding of the numbers is important. I really want to come and live there. Makati? Or wherever. Anyone who can contribute would really be helping me and I am sure others would like some real info. Thanks for any interest. I love ISG people.[/QUOTE]You know what, the most sensible helpful advice I can give is come here on a fact finding stay. Spend some time here finding out about the place, its people & the financial realities. Since you are posting on a sex board you are obviously interested in sex also so why not sample the pleasures of the flesh & report back.

Honestly we can't really advise you based on so little information from you.

Cheers mate!

AV.

[QUOTE=PirateMorgan;1621760]I am a teacher on Skype and need wired internet. I have read some things about Internet in the Philippines. Most very negative. I really want to live there. I need at least 4 MB wired. Of course 10 would be better. People talk about 'fast' internet. Your fast could be my slow. So real understanding of the numbers is important. I really want to come and live there. Makati? Or wherever. Anyone who can contribute would really be helping me and I am sure others would like some real info. Thanks for any interest. I love ISG people.[/QUOTE]In metro Manila Fort Bonifacio Global City (aka the Fort, aka BGC) has the most modern infrastructure. It's also one of the most expensive areas to live. I live in Makati, in a newish condo in a middle-class barangay, and my wired Internet thruput is dreadful during the evening and weekends (impossible to watch anything on youtube, for instance), but this is largely due to my landlord providing me mid-level service. Since you depend on a video stream for your livelihood you'll require synchronous service rather than asynchronous. Aside from putting flipflops on the ground, your best bet is to join an expat forum and post this question to the community. And of course check the ISPs to see what's on offer - read the fine print because their fastest service is often limited to certain areas.

[quote=hutsori;1621866]in metro manila fort bonifacio global city (aka the fort, aka bgc) has the most modern infrastructure. it's also one of the most expensive areas to live. i live in makati, in a newish condo in a middle-class barangay, and my wired internet thruput is dreadful during the evening and weekends (impossible to watch anything on youtube, for instance), but this is largely due to my landlord providing me mid-level service. since you depend on a video stream for your livelihood you'll require synchronous service rather than asynchronous. aside from putting flipflops on the ground, your best bet is to join an expat forum and post this question to the community. and of course check the isps to see what's on offer - read the fine print because their fastest service is often limited to certain areas.[/quote]i live in davao, and i pay sky cable, which is manila-based, about php4,000 a month for , a speed that i achieve maybe half the time. the actual upload speed varies between 3 amd 6, with much lower upload speeds of 1-2, amd this is about as good as it gets for regular service providers. much of the time i cannot watch streaming video, though this varies and sometimes i can. the 6 mbps is considered "fast" here in a country where the it infrastructure, or perhaps i should say the ict infrastructure is pretty much of a joke, much like the physical infrastructure.

i meant to say 6 mbps is what i pay for.
ge.

[quote=goodenough;1621908]i live in davao, and i pay sky cable, which is manila-based, about php4,000 a month for , a speed that i achieve maybe half the time. the actual upload speed varies between 3 amd 6, with much lower upload speeds of 1-2, amd this is about as good as it gets for regular service providers. much of the time i cannot watch streaming video, though this varies and sometimes i can. the 6 mbps is considered "fast" here in a country where the it infrastructure, or perhaps i should say the ict infrastructure is pretty much of a joke, much like the physical infrastructure.

i meant to say 6 mbps is what i pay for.
ge.[/quote][url]http://technology.inquirer.net/38731/internet-service-getting-faster-telcos-tell-senate[/url]#2.

no sooner have you asked for faster speed, and those wonderful folk at globe are already giving it to you. what a proactive country.

[quote=piratemorgan;1621760]i am a teacher on skype and need wired internet. i have read some things about internet in the philippines. most very negative. i really want to live there. i need at least 4 mb wired. of course 10 would be better. people talk about 'fast' internet. your fast could be my slow. so real understanding of the numbers is important. i really want to come and live there. makati? or wherever. anyone who can contribute would really be helping me and i am sure others would like some real info. thanks for any interest. i love isg people.[/quote]funny that this topic popped up, in anticipation of my upcoming trip i was chatting with wr about it over the weekend. current upload / download in cebu via private pldt account, hardwired and connected to personal router varied between 1 to 1. 9 mbps (max) upload / 2 to 3. 6 mbps (max) download. max speeds were only attained during off peak hours, lower end during business hours. wherein during my stay using shared wi-fi in various places i was lucky to get 0. 5 up / 1. 0 down speed; and many times it seemed old dial up speeds were faster, lol.

best way is to go there and try yourself. you can use this free web site to test it:

[url]http://www.speedtest.net/[/url]

i have pldt adsl at my condo in clark. i have no choice.

speeds vary with time of day from good to poor.

this joker says he's earning a living using the internet & since he'll pm you how rich he is i guess the obvious solution is for him is to ignore our anecdotal evidence about _residential_ grade services & contact the leading philippine isp's about pricing / qos of _business_ grade services.

av.

[QUOTE=PirateMorgan;1621760]I am a teacher on Skype and need wired internet. I have read some things about Internet in the Philippines. Most very negative. I really want to live there. I need at least 4 MB wired. Of course 10 would be better.[/QUOTE]Try PLDT Fiber to the Home service. Anything that uses copper-based DSL in the Philippines has no real service level. FTTH service has real throughput on both download and upload. As an aside, Skype needs just a fraction of that kind of bandwidth to deliver a videocon, so why you think you need 4 Mb is a mystery to me. No need to answer. Enjoy, AsianRain.

yes skype does not need 4 mb download speed. i just want that for general use. skype suffers below. 5 mb upload speed. the person on the other end will see a degraded picture. i met two females on philippine cupid last night and we communicated on skype. with video. not conclusive buy hopeful anyway. the connections were fine. one was 4 mb service. (by the way. i do not need 4 mb upload) i know it is hard to hit the nail on this one.

something called amavida has been making comments since i started this conversation (which others seem to have an interest in). why his comments about my having or not having money were made. or commenting on what people can and cannot discuss here. or his use of the subject pronoun 'we' instead of i. is puzzling to me. reminds me of the kid in school whose pants were always full of skid marks and no one wanted to talk or listen to him. this guys skid marks are at least a week old. better he just listen and absorb. and change his pants.

[quote=piratemorgan;1622209]yes skype does not need 4 mb download speed. i just want that for general use. skype suffers below. 5 mb upload speed. the person on the other end will see a degraded picture. i met two females on philippine cupid last night and we communicated on skype. with video. not conclusive buy hopeful anyway. the connections were fine. one was 4 mb service. (by the way. i do not need 4 mb upload) i know it is hard to hit the nail on this one.

something called amavida has been making comments since i started this conversation (which others seem to have an interest in). why his comments about my having or not having money were made. or commenting on what people can and cannot discuss here. or his use of the subject pronoun 'we' instead of i. is puzzling to me. reminds me of the kid in school whose pants were always full of skid marks and no one wanted to talk or listen to him. this guys skid marks are at least a week old. better he just listen and absorb. and change his pants.[/quote]pm,

read the comments that others have given here and understand that there are huge "ifs and buts" around internet speeds. i have been chatting with pj a lot recently and we regularly test the speed and this varies enormously as amavida said in his fr.

i also use skype a lot and yes there are issues but you need to accept as is can be hard to get faster and you don't need the speed you have to be ok on skype as i have never got 4 mb and i still see the girl. or chat on ym as easier.

so listen to advice and don't be rude to people. although amavida describing you as a "something" did make me chuckle. as for the skid marks i cannot comment and i don't want to know as would spoil breakfast lol but we (as in pronoun 'we') all know a good boy never goes out without clean underpants so i very much doubt amavida are full of skid marks pm as he is always chasing pussy in ac and likes to give a professional impression lol.

[QUOTE=PirateMorgan;1622209]
Something called Amavida has been making comments since I started this conversation (which others seem to have an interest in). Why his comments about my having or not having money were made. Or commenting on what people can and cannot discuss here. Or his use of the subject pronoun 'we' instead of I. Is puzzling to me. Reminds me of the kid in school whose pants were always full of skid marks and no one wanted to talk or listen to him. This guys skid marks are at least a week old. Better he just listen and absorb. And change his pants.[/QUOTE]You did eloquently write up that? Well, I believe in your teaching skills.

With that kind of 'kind' words, I am sure you will make a fine teacher in Philippines.

It will be just a matter of time before somebody pops a 22 or a larger caliber.

Just saying.

Rule no 1, never offend the natives, and same rule, sort of, applies to any internet forum.

I don't see anything that Amavida said that should have touched a raw nerve.

And he is on the ball.

My BB internet in Baguio, Globe Tatoo, at 10 MB crawls when you watch youtube on High resolution, always.

And at times, my Smart pocket 3 G Wifi is faster that the Globe.

And when in Bauko, the Globe 3 G rocks, and Smart crawls.

And above all happens when the signal shows all bars alive.

this afternoon i was at greenbelt, and while having lunch, signed onto the "free" wifi to hit the cebu pacific site in order to buy a ticket back to davao for tomorrow. i would estimate that the first page took 30-45 seconds to load. i signed off, and just for the hell of it measured the upload speed, at. 2 mbps; barely there at all. no wonder this country's such a dynamic, envied, economic regional powerhouse. oh wait, i forgot, that's singapore.

[quote=piratemorgan;1622209]yes skype does not need 4 mb download speed. i just want that for general use. skype suffers below. 5 mb upload speed. the person on the other end will see a degraded picture. i met two females on philippine cupid last night and we communicated on skype. with video. not conclusive buy hopeful anyway. the connections were fine. one was 4 mb service. (by the way. i do not need 4 mb upload) i know it is hard to hit the nail on this one.[/quote]you need business grade isp services to support your online teaching then i stand behind my advice to get over here in the phils where i reside & check out the top tier isp's for qos & pricing of business grade services for your enterprise. myself & others have shared anecdotal stories of varying qos with residential grade services.

with air travel so cheap these day's any schmuck can afford a quick trip to the pi's.

[quote=piratemorgan;1622209]something called amavida has been making comments since i started this conversation (which others seem to have an interest in). why his comments about my having or not having money were made. or commenting on what people can and cannot discuss here. or his use of the subject pronoun 'we' instead of i. is puzzling to me. reminds me of the kid in school whose pants were always full of skid marks and no one wanted to talk or listen to him. this guys skid marks are at least a week old. better he just listen and absorb. and change his pants.[/quote]you sent me an insulting pm calling me names & bragging of your wealth. no idea why you started behaving like this or need to behave like this but i'm sure nobody on the open forum wants to read tit for tat nonsense so i'll demonstrate some restraint & manners in the hope that we get back to discussing our hobby.

by the way if you do come here, please let me know so i can buy you a beverage & share a few stories.

cheers mate,

av.

[quote=wickedroger;1622237]pm,


i also use skype a lot and yes there are issues but you need to accept as is can be hard to get faster and you don't need the speed you have to be ok on skype as i have never got 4 mb and i still see the girl. or chat on ym as easier...[/quote]well i stand corrected but i am also amazed as since this thread has been discussing the speed i now test mine at different times of the day and guess what? it reached 6 mb download and a good 2+mb upload. the photo.

but i have pldt, residential fiber optic and this was very late in the evening so please factor that into the equation as similar to ge's comment below, i have also had 0. 3/1. 1 etc. mostly the philippine web site have issues as i face the same with cebu pac, inquirer, phil star and many for nationally based websites.

and ge you could have said malaysia, indonesia, thailand in fact just about anywhere lol.

LMAO. I would think that "restraint" wouldn't include suggesting that someone is a schmuck. As for titting and tatting, it seems that AVs public comments were in response to an earlier pm from the Pirate. A rude pm should stay in the pm territory, although I know it is sometimes difficult to exercise such restraint. Sorry if I've misread the thread in any way.

Just curious about what others think, is a pm really private and should you expect it to be private? Would you take a private message and make it public? Oh, the Internet, so many conundrums. X Man.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1622386]You need business grade ISP services to support your online teaching then I stand behind my advice to get over here in the Phils where I reside & check out the top tier ISP's for QoS & pricing of business grade services for your enterprise. Myself & others have shared anecdotal stories of varying QoS with residential grade services.

With air travel so cheap these day's any schmuck can afford a quick trip to the PI's.

You sent me an insulting PM calling me names & bragging of your wealth. No idea why you started behaving like this or need to behave like this but I'm sure nobody on the open forum wants to read tit for tat nonsense so I'll demonstrate some restraint & manners in the hope that we get back to discussing our hobby.

By the way if you do come here, please let me know so I can buy you a beverage & share a few stories.

Cheers mate,

AV.[/QUOTE]

Your response to my inquirey.

I was not looking for anyone's opinion on anything. Just information. I went and read your other posts. I am still trying to figure out if you know anything about anything.

Then why ask?

I've given you my best advice based on your extremely vague question. I see you are active on the central American forums. Maybe its too far / too expensive to come here to the Phil's to do a recce? Honestly, if you are rich you can have anything you want in PI. You can get fast cable internet if you want to pay for it.

I stand by my advice, come here & get the lay of the land if you are considering a move here.

Cheers mate,

AV.

Then it's a good thing I am rich. Your comments are idiotic.

I now give up on the quest. Just wanted simple info. Not opinions. I have been using Skype for years and have always wanted to be on the cutting edge of 'presentation'. Making the experience as much like 'being there' for them. My students, including the Chief economist at the Central Bank of Costa Rica and the Presidents of five banks in see. Are. Have enjoyed their experience on-line with me. If I knew everything I would not have asked here on the board for information. A few of you had some good stuff to contribute and I appreciate that. The some total of my private exchanges is provided for your viewing pleasure. A couple of you wrote some comment to me about him they referred to him as a 'troll'. I would say more as they were private. Now. I will retire from this exchange.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1618544]The formal application like you use for a renewal is not needed when getting the visa at the airport (MNL or CEB). Simply present with your passport, the form they give you on the plane (completed of course), your itinerary or return ticket showing that will be departing (which they may not even ask for) and the respective amount in pesos (should be about p2,750). Once in MNL another guy didn't have pesos so they escorted him out to a money changer in the terminal; note that this was in the wee hours and it was not busy so I don't know if that was an usual practice for the BOI to do that.[/QUOTE]I was thinking of doing this rather than going to PP embassy in London (cheaper there but more hassle). But I am planning to go with a return flight of about 89 days (59 + a 30 local extension or go out and come back), in this case though I think the airline might stop me at check-in if I don't have a 59 days visa already. !? While with a visa in passport from London it probably be safer, no!?

for folks depending on video calls / conferencing in the phils, considering qos of the isp is only part of the story. problems can arise in your own router, your isp's edge routers, your isp's core routing & peering links etc etc.

the other part of the problem to consider is also what video software which you are running. i would hesitate to recommend skype frankly. their qos has been declining for some time.

business alternatives i would suggest looking at would be vsee or webex. you could see major improvements on the same 'iffy' connection compared to skype.

av.

[QUOTE=PirateMorgan;1622504]I would say more as they were private. Now. I will retire from this exchange.[/QUOTE]You must be a real joy to work for, no, I am not rich or so connected.

I know a few rich guys who have asked others to do their leg work that insist on subservience in an anonymous forum.

I may not have met your likes then.

[QUOTE=Uzinuzin;1622626]I was thinking of doing this rather than going to PP embassy in London (cheaper there but more hassle). But I am planning to go with a return flight of about 89 days (59 + a 30 local extension or go out and come back), in this case though I think the airline might stop me at check-in if I don't have a 59 days visa already. !? While with a visa in passport from London it probably be safer, no!?[/QUOTE]If you want to avoid leaving / coming back and want to stay for 89 days straight then you will need two 59 day visa's, there is no "30 day local extension".

You shouldn't have any problems with the airline if you don't have the visa in advance. The only thing the airline checks for is that you have an outbound ticket, the date on it is irrelevant, as it's your responsibility to get (or have) the proper visa or visa extensions. You don't need to have an extended visa (s) in advance.

Of course you can go to the embassy and get it in advance, I think they will issue up to three 59 day visa's in advance which must be used within a year of your first entry date. If time allows, you can do it by mail / FedEx too and save the trip, but check with your local embassy first to make sure it's ok and how much time is needed; here in the USA they usually say it takes about 4 weeks. Even by mail it still can be a bit of a hassle if you don't follow their un-clear instructions (West Coast wrote about it some time back and gave very good step by step instructions).

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1622782]If you want to avoid leaving / coming back and want to stay for 89 days straight then you will need two 59 day visa's, there is no "30 day local extension".

You shouldn't have any problems with the airline if you don't have the visa in advance. The only thing the airline checks for is that you have an outbound ticket, the date on it is irrelevant, as it's your responsibility to get (or have) the proper visa or visa extensions. You don't need to have an extended visa (s) in advance.

Of course you can go to the embassy and get it in advance, I think they will issue up to three 59 day visa's in advance which must be used within a year of your first entry date. If time allows, you can do it by mail / FedEx too and save the trip, but check with your local embassy first to make sure it's ok and how much time is needed; here in the USA they usually say it takes about 4 weeks. Even by mail it still can be a bit of a hassle if you don't follow their un-clear instructions (West Coast wrote about it some time back and gave very good step by step instructions).[/QUOTE]Make sure that you have your application notarized! I sent mine in a few days ago, to the Philippine counsulate in San Francisco and forgot to do that. They just called me and told me to send in a new app. Notarized. Aw gezzzzzzzzz. I"m hapless.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1622786]Make sure that you have your application notarized! I sent mine in a few days ago, to the Philippine counsulate in San Francisco and forgot to do that. They just called me and told me to send in a new app. Notarized. Aw gezzzzzzzzz. I"m hapless.[/QUOTE]No one's fault but your own bro, however it sounds like something I'd forget to do as well. At least they called and not just rejected it and returned it. I presume the consualte will hold the rest of your paper work and you can simply print out another app, fill it out, [B]get it notarized[/B] and send it without having to re-start the process?

When it's completed, please report back as to the total time it took start to finish (minus your boo-boo, lol)

We have had a discussion on power and the rather futile attempt to justify the power shortage plus FRs on how the government wanted to respond. As GE and others have pointed out, the issue has been long standing and not much has been done to resolve except blame the previous lot of officials.

This from PhilStar I found an interesting read today and it does cover more than the power but is still an interesting article I think for those who follow this stuff.

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/freeman-opinion/2014/09/19/1370816/champ-among-corrupt[/URL]

We all know pinays are very brand aware and want oly the latest model mobile despite having one already that does the job ie text, call, surf etc (my mobile is 5 years old).

Already some pinays have 'hinted' they would love the new IPhone despite having Samsung S5 or IPhone5 or something equally as tasty. My response is always "why as your mobile is great and does the trick", "look at mine is 5 years old and does what your can do so why do you want to swap again after a year".

Now I also know they want this for their Facebook pages so they can brag and boast to those who can't afford. Even seen one girl selling her IPhone 5 for PHP 23 k recently on Facebook in anticipation of IPhone 6.

But. . . . see this article on prices and the comparisons with the USA Ridiculous and crazy so use this if you must to say no if the pinay persists or tell the price on the Philippines and ask her how will she save cash to buy it herself.

[URL]https://ph.news.yahoo.com/apple-iphone-6-iphone-6-plus-price-philippines-131957488.html[/URL]

Personally I think the IPhone is a load of rubbish. Friends in the telecomm industry tell me that the HTC Touch One M8 (and Samsung) are the best but I have no real idea and don't care either LOL.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1622796]No one's fault but your own bro, however it sounds like something I'd forget to do as well. At least they called and not just rejected it and returned it. I presume the consualte will hold the rest of your paper work and you can simply print out another app, fill it out, [B]get it notarized[/B] and send it without having to re-start the process?

When it's completed, please report back as to the total time it took start to finish (minus your boo-boo, lol)[/QUOTE]I got a new application notarized and on it's way today. I'm an idiot. Its like John Wayne said. "Life is tough, it's a lot tougher if your stupid" fits me like an old "T" shirt.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1622814]We have had a discussion on power and the rather futile attempt to justify the power shortage plus FRs on how the government wanted to respond. As GE and others have pointed out, the issue has been long standing and not much has been done to resolve except blame the previous lot of officials.

This from PhilStar I found an interesting read today and it does cover more than the power but is still an interesting article I think for those who follow this stuff.

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/freeman-opinion/2014/09/19/1370816/champ-among-corrupt[/URL][/QUOTE]Look, this is, in almost all respects, a failed state. The US and its allies needs a reliable vassal in the area, so the many flaws that would, in other circumstances, consign it to the scrap heap of other beggar nations, are papered over. So it's able to limp along. The current president is a moron, but so what? The power crisis has been looming for decades, and it will loom long after he's gone. This is a country populated by decent people and morally bankrupt politicians and its goinng to stay like this for generations.

GE.

Just went through Terminal 1 at 7:30 pm Saturday. Less than 10% of the previous traffic due to relocation of a number of airlines. You can actually see the floor in front of you. Never knew the floor was light color stone! I have never had any issues with terminal 1 before. Now it is a real breeze, no traffic or lines. No waiting at departure tax line or passport control or the security X-ray check point. Made it thru all three in less than 3 minutes.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1623198]Just went through Terminal 1 at 7:30 pm Saturday. Less than 10% of the previous traffic due to relocation of a number of airlines. You can actually see the floor in front of you. Never knew the floor was light color stone! I have never had any issues with terminal 1 before. Now it is a real breeze, no traffic or lines. No waiting at departure tax line or passport control or the security X-ray check point. Made it thru all three in less than 3 minutes.[/QUOTE]Question sir. I have a return flight thru manila airport. I arrive there on a domestic flight from Cebu and transfer to an international flight to ICN. I have been told that my 2.

Hour layover is not sufficient time to get from one terminal to the next. I tried to change my itinerary but they just needed too much money for that. So please.

Enlighten me. Can I succeed in my endeavor? Sounds like you made it ok. Did you have to changer terminals? Did you have to collect your baggage first?

Lonely566 maybe you should ask that on the [URL]http://www.flyertalk.com/[/URL] forum. There should be plenty of people who can help you out. Go to "miles and points" and then the thread of the airline you are using. Or just go to the Philippine thread.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1623356]Question sir. I have a return flight thru manila airport. I arrive there on a domestic flight from Cebu and transfer to an international flight to ICN. I have been told that my 2.

Hour layover is not sufficient time to get from one terminal to the next. I tried to change my itinerary but they just needed too much money for that. So please.

Enlighten me. Can I succeed in my endeavor? Sounds like you made it ok. Did you have to changer terminals? Did you have to collect your baggage first?[/QUOTE]IMHO not a chance as flights easily delayed due to NAIA congestion so maybe you are stuck on the ground in Cebu and won't take off for 30-60 minutes (yes this happens a lot) and then baggage claim will be / could be messy and then you need to check in again etc Too many variable that could easily go wrong.

In any normal first world developed airport, 2 hours is tough but doable as long as all things are efficient. Say Dubai, BKK, KUL where you don't have to get the bags and check in again just go via transit etc But this is the Philippines LOL.

And who or what agency sold you that ticket with that turnaround. Completely ridiculous as any agent / ticket seller would know 2 hours is barely doable in a good airports. I fly extensively and never take any transfers with less than 3 hours even if there is an earlier flight as Murphy's Law says you will be caught short when you least want it and it will cost a lot to put right.

And read Davis's advice as that is very sensible.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1623356]Question sir. I have a return flight thru manila airport. I arrive there on a domestic flight from Cebu and transfer to an international flight to ICN. I have been told that my 2.

Hour layover is not sufficient time to get from one terminal to the next. I tried to change my itinerary but they just needed too much money for that. So please.

Enlighten me. Can I succeed in my endeavor? Sounds like you made it ok. Did you have to changer terminals? Did you have to collect your baggage first?[/QUOTE]If you're changing airlines then yes, its not enough time. Cutting it too fine will lead to disaster or stress the hell out of you. I noticed my favorite carrier, SIA did a _very_ close 30 minute interchange from one SIA flight to another the other week (MNL-SG-BNE). Great if you don't want to prolong your journey but almost caught me out because I did'nt check & assumed it was the usual 3 - 4 hours & almost missed boarding. But that is changing over in Changi on the same carrier.

AV.

Just tell to securty and go to in front of the line in terminal screen. 1 hour is more than enough.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1623356]Question sir. I have a return flight thru manila airport. I arrive there on a domestic flight from Cebu and transfer to an international flight to ICN. I have been told that my 2.

Hour layover is not sufficient time to get from one terminal to the next. I tried to change my itinerary but they just needed too much money for that. So please.

Enlighten me. Can I succeed in my endeavor? Sounds like you made it ok. Did you have to changer terminals? Did you have to collect your baggage first?[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1623356]Question sir. I have a return flight thru manila airport. I arrive there on a domestic flight from Cebu and transfer to an international flight to ICN. I have been told that my 2.

Hour layover is not sufficient time to get from one terminal to the next. I tried to change my itinerary but they just needed too much money for that. So please.

Enlighten me. Can I succeed in my endeavor? Sounds like you made it ok. Did you have to changer terminals? Did you have to collect your baggage first?[/QUOTE]First you need to collect your bag from the Domestic flight. Take a cab to another terminal if it is so. Check the bag again, go through security and get to the gate.

Problems are,

1. Taxi line is long. Solution is pay more and get some guy who is always there asking if you need a taxi.

2. If your airline is a middle eastern one or some other airline going to middle east there will be a very long line. Solution just go to first class check in counter and explain to the girl there that you do not have much time.

3. If there is a long line at the security keep asking the people in front of you to see if they will let you go ahead. Otherwise tell a security guard there that you do not have much time.

Generally 2 hours is plenty. I have made connections which are less than an hour because of delayed flights.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1623356]Question sir. I have a return flight thru manila airport. I arrive there on a domestic flight from Cebu and transfer to an international flight to ICN. I have been told that my 2.

Hour layover is not sufficient time to get from one terminal to the next. I tried to change my itinerary but they just needed too much money for that. So please.

Enlighten me. Can I succeed in my endeavor? Sounds like you made it ok. Did you have to changer terminals? Did you have to collect your baggage first?[/QUOTE]Sorry for the late reply but I have been on 3 planes coming home on United Airlines. My only experience is on United without any transfer of terminals. Seems like you have gotten some good advice from others here.

For what ever it is worth, last year at terminal 1, I was waiting and waiting for my luggage while the same 8 or 9 bags were going round and round. United is their great wisdom had put my bag on a later flight. Mean while the United employees were loading up the 8 or 9 bags and I asked them if these were people who didn't make it thru immigration? The reply was no, these were the transfer bags to other flights! Not sure it they were to other United flights or other airlines. Either way not a very secure way to handle bags. Anyone could have grabbed a bag and gone out the "nothing to declare" line.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1623356]Question sir. I have a return flight thru manila airport. I arrive there on a domestic flight from Cebu and transfer to an international flight to ICN. I have been told that my 2.

Hour layover is not sufficient time to get from one terminal to the next. I tried to change my itinerary but they just needed too much money for that. So please.

Enlighten me. Can I succeed in my endeavor? Sounds like you made it ok. Did you have to changer terminals? Did you have to collect your baggage first?[/QUOTE]At the second terminal grab a sky / cap or porter as you exit the cab, hand him a 100 peso bill and tell him you are in a hurry. He will take you to a special x-Ray line or to the front of the line and then to the front of the check-in line. I have done this many times before, especially at Terminal 1 with its long lines. Also at Cebu airport.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1623356]I have a return flight thru manila airport. I arrive there on a domestic flight from Cebu and transfer to an international flight to ICN. I have been told that my 2 Hour layover is not sufficient time to get from one terminal to the next. I tried to change my itinerary but they just needed too much money for that. [/QUOTE]Another option in case you are afraid of missing your connection would be to book an earlier one way flight from CEB to MNL; cost on Cebu Pacific, using one of their promo p650 fares as a base, is only about p2,150 all in (including an extra p600 for a suitcase, up to 30 kg).

And if you want to avoid MNL altogether then fly direct to ICN; again on Cebu Pacific the cost would be about p9, 500.

[QUOTE]Did you have to collect your baggage first?[/QUOTE]Did you book from Cebu to your final destination? If so your checked in bags should be checked thru to your final destination even if you are changing airlines. The only time you should have to claim your bags would be to clear customs at the 1st port of entry in your home country and then afterwards simply hand them back off to an airline agent for them to continue on to your final destination (I. E. , from ICN to MCO via DFW. You would clear customs in DFW). Hawaii and Guam are about the only exceptions I'm aware of to that, I guess customs doesn't have the staff to check bags if you are continuing onto the mainland (or they don't consider themselves part of the USA yet, LOL).

Since I like island hopping. And plan to come live in the Philippines on a regular basis soon. I thought it would be cool to own my own boat. Example, 2nd hand for 200,000 pesos.

One I could modify for going on 2 or 3 day adventures. Eat and sleep on. Meaning - anchoring off a near by beach. Strickly coatal. No open waters.

I fantasize have 3 to 5 Filipina brown skin guapa Chica babes privately enjoy with me. Musica, drink, food, and lots of sex.

So I am just curious if anyone has had their own banca for island hopping besides renting a boat for a day.

Maybe too much trouble. Who can you trust to watch it when you not around?

I been told. I could go into the island hopping business in Cebu. But who can I trust. That is the issue.

Its not like I can keep it in a marina with docks and guard / fence / gates.

I think if I had a GF who has a relative who is a fisherman. I could pay him. Less likely he would cheat me. Remember I said less likely. Or maybe cheat me just a little. Ahahahha.

To be caretaker. Or even use it for fishing -.

Just thinking.

But sex ON and IN the water is great!

Hope to hear back from a few gentlemen.

[QUOTE=MangoBob68;1623846]Since I like island hopping. And plan to come live in the Philippines on a regular basis soon. I thought it would be cool to own my own boat. Example, 2nd hand for 200,000 pesos.

One I could modify for going on 2 or 3 day adventures. Eat and sleep on. Meaning - anchoring off a near by beach. Strickly coatal. No open waters.

I fantasize have 3 to 5 Filipina brown skin guapa Chica babes privately enjoy with me. Musica, drink, food, and lots of sex.

So I am just curious if anyone has had their own banca for island hopping besides renting a boat for a day.

Maybe too much trouble. Who can you trust to watch it when you not around?

I been told. I could go into the island hopping business in Cebu. But who can I trust. That is the issue.

Its not like I can keep it in a marina with docks and guard / fence / gates.

I think if I had a GF who has a relative who is a fisherman. I could pay him. Less likely he would cheat me. Remember I said less likely. Or maybe cheat me just a little. Ahahahha.

To be caretaker. Or even use it for fishing -.

Just thinking.

But sex ON and IN the water is great!

Hope to hear back from a few gentlemen.[/QUOTE]A 'pump boat' or kurante is big enough. I wanted one for hopping from Leyte to Malapacua island & island hopping. Was quoted P250 k or more for a newish one. Being a lover of DIY I bought an second hand hull in seaworthy condition P25 k + nrw 14 hp horizontal shaft motor P13,500 + new prop shaft rudder + paint + misc. About P50 k all in all & certainly big enough.

P200 k+ & a bit of ingenuity / swest would certainly be plenty to do what you envisage.

*A banca is the small canoe sized fishing boat.

AV.

[QUOTE=MangoBob68;1623846]Since I like island hopping. And plan to come live in the Philippines on a regular basis soon. I thought it would be cool to own my own boat. Example, 2nd hand for 200,000 pesos.

One I could modify for going on 2 or 3 day adventures. Eat and sleep on. Meaning - anchoring off a near by beach. Strickly coatal. No open waters.

I fantasize have 3 to 5 Filipina brown skin guapa Chica babes privately enjoy with me. Musica, drink, food, and lots of sex.

So I am just curious if anyone has had their own banca for island hopping besides renting a boat for a day.

Maybe too much trouble. Who can you trust to watch it when you not around?

I been told. I could go into the island hopping business in Cebu. But who can I trust. That is the issue.

Its not like I can keep it in a marina with docks and guard / fence / gates.

I think if I had a GF who has a relative who is a fisherman. I could pay him. Less likely he would cheat me. Remember I said less likely. Or maybe cheat me just a little. Ahahahha.

To be caretaker. Or even use it for fishing -.

Just thinking.

But sex ON and IN the water is great!

Hope to hear back from a few gentlemen.[/QUOTE]A good friend recently took delivery of his catamaran. It was built by an Aussie living near Dumaguete. It's open-ocean worthy; he intends to sail SE Asia over the coming years. Cost him approx. P5 million; since he'll be living on it full time he will let his MOA condo. The boat has four large staterooms that each sleep 2 comfortably and 4 small rooms to berth singles, galley, saloon, wheelhouse, head, etc. Obviously he has wind power, also solar-powered batteries, and diesel engines.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1623856]A good friend recently took delivery of his catamaran. It was built by an Aussie living near Dumaguete. It's open-ocean worthy; he intends to sail SE Asia over the coming years. Cost him approx. P5 million; since he'll be living on it full time he will let his MOA condo. The boat has four large staterooms that each sleep 2 comfortably and 4 small rooms to berth singles, galley, saloon, wheelhouse, head, etc. Obviously he has wind power, also solar-powered batteries, and diesel engines.[/QUOTE]Nice!

AV.

Thanks guys for all the good advice. I like the one about spreading some money around. That has worked well around the world for getting things done. That is one thing I miss mightyly when I'm home in the USA. Dealing with inspectors on a houseing project or a pig headed govenment official. I always think how nice it would be to slip him a fifty or a hundred to make alll the bs go away, like I would do if I were in the developing world. Ha ha.

I enjoyed my time in the Philippines. Manila is a waste of time and money.

Angeles was a lot of fun. Definitely spending more time there next year. I hope the scene grows but its just a small version of Pattaya right now.

LA cafe is full of hardened pros. You'd be pressed for time to find girls new to the scene.

Food in general sucks on average.

Overall I had mostly positive experiences in most bars. Shipwreck was the only bar that was super pushy with the lady drinks. The mamasan shoved a girl on my lap and asked me to buy her a drink. She even asked for a tip as I walked out.

Be careful of kids asking for handouts. 2 came up to me asking for hand outs. I knew exactly what they were planning. They tried to go for my pockets but I kept them at arms length with firm pushes. They gave up after the girl with me helped shoo them away. I generally only carry enough cash for the night so I would not have been a big loss but falling victim only will embolden these kids to do more.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1623856]A good friend recently took delivery of his catamaran. It was built by an Aussie living near Dumaguete. It's open-ocean worthy; he intends to sail SE Asia over the coming years. Cost him approx. P5 million; since he'll be living on it full time he will let his MOA condo. The boat has four large staterooms that each sleep 2 comfortably and 4 small rooms to berth singles, galley, saloon, wheelhouse, head, etc. Obviously he has wind power, also solar-powered batteries, and diesel engines.[/QUOTE]I think the builder is Nigel Roberts. He owns a small resort called Tonga Sails Resort at Tambobo Bay about an hour south of Duma. He runs a boat building co-op specializing in large cruising cataramans. Very accomplished sailor and competent builder. Usually stops by Why Not? For drinks and contact every Wednesday morning.

Very good price based on your description.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1623856]A good friend recently took delivery of his catamaran. It was built by an Aussie living near Dumaguete. It's open-ocean worthy; he intends to sail SE Asia over the coming years. Cost him approx. P5 million; since he'll be living on it full time he will let his MOA condo. The boat has four large staterooms that each sleep 2 comfortably and 4 small rooms to berth singles, galley, saloon, wheelhouse, head, etc. Obviously he has wind power, also solar-powered batteries, and diesel engines.[/QUOTE]

Don't do in USA unless you want to meet Bubba.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1624018]Thanks guys for all the good advice. I like the one about spreading some money around. That has worked well around the world for getting things done. That is one thing I miss mightyly when I'm home in the USA. Dealing with inspectors on a houseing project or a pig headed govenment official. I always think how nice it would be to slip him a fifty or a hundred to make alll the bs go away, like I would do if I were in the developing world. Ha ha.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Amavida;1623851]A 'pump boat' or kurante is big enough. I wanted one for hopping from Leyte to Malapacua island & island hopping. Was quoted P250 k or more for a newish one. Being a lover of DIY I bought an second hand hull in seaworthy condition P25 k + nrw 14 hp horizontal shaft motor P13,500 + new prop shaft rudder + paint + misc. About P50 k all in all & certainly big enough.

P200 k+ & a bit of ingenuity / swest would certainly be plenty to do what you envisage.

*A banca is the small canoe sized fishing boat.

AV.[/QUOTE]Thanks for sharing. Yes, I should have said pumpboat not banca. I appreciate you breaking down and sharing the cost. May I ask what adventures you have had with it.

Places gone? You have someone reliable to keep an eye on it when you not around? Like to here more of your island hopping. Any photo of your pumpboat. Love to see it.

Take care.

[QUOTE=MangoBob68;1624742]Thanks for sharing. Yes, I should have said pumpboat not banca. I appreciate you breaking down and sharing the cost. May I ask what adventures you have had with it.

Places gone? You have someone reliable to keep an eye on it when you not around? Like to here more of your island hopping. Any photo of your pumpboat. Love to see it.

Take care.[/QUOTE]Ha ha sure ill share a pic of my 'yacht' the MV Lorna. Its a working boat so when I'm not roving the seas around San Isidro she's earning her keep hauling catches to the markets. I have a crew of two, one young keen fisherman & one very experienced old fisherman. I check up on them regularly, you can't leave employees alone too long.

Fishing has been lousy this month with 2 typhoons & a tropical storm all coming one after another.

Tell you some more adventures when I have time. Life is short!

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1624860] Snip> sure ill share a pic of my 'yacht' the MV Lorna. [/QUOTE]Nice! . It's rather close to my favorite color-pink. If it was mine, I'd paint it pink on the inside and brown on the outside. I think that would be funny.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1624860]Ha ha sure ill share a pic of my 'yacht' the MV Lorna. Its a working boat so when I'm not roving the seas around San Isidro she's earning her keep hauling catches to the markets. I have a crew of two, one young keen fisherman & one very experienced old fisherman. I check up on them regularly, you can't leave employees alone too long.

Fishing has been lousy this month with 2 typhoons & a tropical storm all coming one after another.

Tell you some more adventures when I have time. Life is short!

AV.[/QUOTE]AV, I am curious, is that the size of boat that pulls P60,000 size of nets? Your previous post about nets to me has got me wondering! I know nothing about fishing. Thanks.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1625028]AV, I am curious, is that the size of boat that pulls P60,000 size of nets? Your previous post about nets to me has got me wondering! I know nothing about fishing. Thanks.[/QUOTE]Correct. A new net comes as several large pieces which need to be sewn together & then floats & weights added. It took two experienced men about two weeks of day & night labor to complete. I think it cost me P10 k for labor. Sounds like a lot but its incredibly tedious labor intensive exacting work. Materials were a shsde over P60 k so all in up a shade over P70 k for new net for this boat. I purchased all equipment in person.

I was 'advised' by my excitable pinoy friends to purchase a 30 hp Honda motor for the boat. Cost P30 k.

I over rode their protests & boight a 14 hp Loncin (chinese) for P13.5 k.

I'm glad I did. This motor is more than enough powerful & good quality for the price. Intetestingly you can buy compact 14 hp diesel motors that weigh about the same for P14.5 k I will try one of these next time as diesel would be ideal for this application.

AV.

"ok dnt wori I'll find someone 2 acept you. Even if she is lesbian I hve so many lesbian friends" . . . "by the way you want 2 met her 2 morow? Actually I hve 2 friends that they want 2 met you too. . jeje".

Yes! See how that plays out.

Just a PSA. If you are anywhere near the Makati Shangri La hotel right now (Sat am 27 SEP) there are many hundred good looking girls queued to interview with Qatar Airways. It's called a CV drop off, and it's open to anyone. I've already chatted with several girls and gotten numbers. "What's going on here? Oh, you're interviewing for a flight attendant job? Great! Good luck. Is the interview in English? It is? Would you like for me to ask you some interview questions for you to practice?

Day 2 is tomorrow from 9-12.

I learnt these interviews happen quite often and there are FA websites that post the info. I'm subscribed.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1625955]Just a PSA. If you are anywhere near the Makati Shangri La hotel right now (Sat am 27 SEP) there are many hundred good looking girls queued to interview with Qatar Airways. It's called a CV drop off, and it's open to anyone. I've already chatted with several girls and gotten numbers. "What's going on here? Oh, you're interviewing for a flight attendant job? Great! Good luck. Is the interview in English? It is? Would you like for me to ask you some interview questions for you to practice?

Day 2 is tomorrow from 9-12.

I learnt these interviews happen quite often and there are FA websites that post the info. I'm subscribed.[/QUOTE]Great intel Huts this is useful info for knowing where to take a morning strall.

to all of you who depend on reasonable internet connections, a word of warning. it appears that one of the few international cables that connect this place to civilization has been cut, with the result that the normally deficient connections have been reduced, albeit intermittently, to something resembling a waxed string and a cambells soup can. for example, my purchase today of a cp airline ticket, which normally takes me 5 minutes, today took the better part of an hour. one article i read said that singapore has access to more than 20 cables, so the unavailability of one has barely affected the country's connection speed. i doubt that this backward excuse for a country is connected by more than three or four.

ge.

I'm happy to see that your opinion of the country has improved.

I don't know what is going on with the dollar, but I like it!

This from the Cebu Daily News about what happens when the pinay you 'love' turns on you. In this case the guy was acquited for obvious reasons as note in the article. Maybe we should all keep 'provocative' photos of our pinays.

Same happened to a good friend in the UAE and once he showed the police photos and video of the girl sucking his todger and more the claim she made was thrown out.

[URL]http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/43198/court-acquits-former-us-military-officer[/URL]

"The Philippine Constitution allows the accused to secure temporary liberty when the evidence of guilt against him or her is not strong". It didn't take a year to put together that remarkable piece of journalism, so obviously he was just now acquitted. It don't say exactly when he was arrested either, but if it was near the time of her "rescue", he was still locked up for 10 months? Damn. . Heads up before it gets too sour, huh? Better back up those pics AND add blue paper till it starts sweetening up again!

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1627071]This from the Cebu Daily News about what happens when the pinay you 'love' turns on you. In this case the guy was acquited for obvious reasons as note in the article. Maybe we should all keep 'provocative' photos of our pinays.

Same happened to a good friend in the UAE and once he showed the police photos and video of the girl sucking his todger and more the claim she made was thrown out.

[URL]http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/43198/court-acquits-former-us-military-officer[/URL][/QUOTE]And now HE'll be charged with possession of pornography.

Don't know how many of you follow the daily news here, but recently the headlines have been dominated by alarms over the massive, evidently pervasive corruption of the police, particularly in the higher echelons of the department. The stories have highlighted everything from police involvement in robbery, kidnapping and extortion rings to more general ineptitude. Of course in typical Philippine style, the PNP chief, who lives in a million dollar house and drives a $90,000 vehicle, hasn't been charged, refuses to resign, and promises to do better. Plus ça change, plus que la même chose. (The more things change, the more they remain the same.).

GE.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1627071]This from the Cebu Daily News about what happens when the pinay you 'love' turns on you. In this case the guy was acquited for obvious reasons as note in the article. Maybe we should all keep 'provocative' photos of our pinays.

Same happened to a good friend in the UAE and once he showed the police photos and video of the girl sucking his todger and more the claim she made was thrown out.

[URL]http://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/43198/court-acquits-former-us-military-officer[/URL][/QUOTE]When I was in Toledo, Cebu last year a Kano got picked up and put in jail for ****! **** of a girl HE had lived with for over one year! I was also in Camiguin where a long nose broke up.

With his live in lover. She went straight to the police and turned him in for smoking pot. HE was still sitting in jail when I left there a few weeks later. The feel I get is that the cops don't.

Care at all, if your guilty, you are revenue! My method is stay mobile. I'm always moving around. Had a few close calls which are documented in my ebook "Motorcycling in Mindanao" In.

My mind. It's luck. I was texting a girl I knew in Carcar and a text comes back: This is her BF, I'm coming over there to f**k you up!. Stay mobile. Too much can go wrong. Filipinas are just too vindictive.

[quote=lonely566;1627392]when i was in toledo, cebu last year a kano got picked up and put in jail for [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123][CodeWord123][/url]! [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123][CodeWord123][/url] of a girl he had lived with for over one year! i was also in camiguin where a long nose broke up.

with his live in lover. she went straight to the police and turned him in for smoking pot. he was still sitting in jail when i left there a few weeks later. the feel i get is that the cops don't.

care at all, if your guilty, you are revenue! my method is stay mobile. i'm always moving around. had a few close calls which are documented in my ebook "motorcycling in mindanao" in.

my mind. it's luck. i was texting a girl i knew in carcar and a text comes back: this is her bf, i'm coming over there to f**k you up!. stay mobile. too much can go wrong. filipinas are just too vindictive.[/quote]it doesn't just happen in phils!

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1626838]I don't know what is going on with the dollar, but I like it![/QUOTE]Lets see that dollar back up in the 50's and then its party time.

Jackson, are you going to continue to let this guy peddle his ebooks here?

[QUOTE=Slippery;1627518]Jackson, are you going to continue to let this guy peddle his ebooks here?[/QUOTE]I thought a book written by a brother monger would be of interest to the group. It's not as if I'm trying to sell phones or tupper ware. I won't do it anymore now that I know it's verboten. But why does it upset you old timer? Am I getting more p*why than you? Je je je.

thanks for the report. this post is unusually disjointed because of the software settings. it doesn't allow dashes, it replaces dashes with full stops. thanks for the post l566.

[quote=lonely566;1627392]when i was in toledo, cebu last year a kano got picked up and put in jail for [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123][CodeWord123][/url]! [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord123][CodeWord123][/url] of a girl he had lived with for over one year! i was also in camiguin where a long nose broke up.

with his live in lover. she went straight to the police and turned him in for smoking pot. he was still sitting in jail when i left there a few weeks later. the feel i get is that the cops don't.

care at all, if your guilty, you are revenue! my method is stay mobile. i'm always moving around. had a few close calls which are documented in my ebook "motorcycling in mindanao" in.

my mind. it's luck. i was texting a girl i knew in carcar and a text comes back: this is her bf, i'm coming over there to f**k you up!. stay mobile. too much can go wrong. filipinas are just too vindictive.[/quote]

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1627392]My mind. It's luck. I was texting a girl I knew in Carcar and a text comes back: This is her BF, I'm coming over there to f**k you up!. Stay mobile. Too much can go wrong. Filipinas are just too vindictive.[/QUOTE]A good friend received the following text from one of his ladies.

"Hi you are. , I am husband of. I am ex army and will cum and put gun up ass and kill you".

I found that very amusing as the guy did not have any idea where my friend was etc. As it turned out HE was the ex boyfriend of one of his favorites so goes to show pinoys are also terribly jealous and can threaten to do stupid things LOL.

[QUOTE=Lonely566;1627555]I thought a book written by a brother monger would be of interest to the group. It's not as if I'm trying to sell phones or tupper ware. I won't do it anymore now that I know it's verboten. But why does it upset you old timer? Am I getting more p*why than you? Je je je.[/QUOTE]Yeah, that's got to be why. I live here and don't know how to get it. What an utterly stupid remark.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1627518]Jackson, are you going to continue to let this guy peddle his ebooks here?[/QUOTE]To be honest, I have not seen any sales pitch and his ebooks are quite cheap. It was a good read for me about his adventure in Ghana. When I will have a chance, I will read his Mindanao adventure too. My $0. 02.

I find this discussion humorous in another way. I did check out Lonely's Mindanao e-book on Amazon. Personally I probably wouldn't buy it because I prefer getting my information filtered through numerous individual observers. We all carry lots of stuff in our heads that makes the mind a powerful editor over the video that reaches our eyes and ears in the here and now. So I find ISG helpful by virtue of the many, varied experiences that get recorded. Lonely's book may be informative, but it's only one guy's observations. No offense intended. I'd suggest the same caution about anything I write.

From the initial excerpt that Amazon provides I know that Lonely starts the book as though he is encountering Jesus on a beach (Camiguin Island, maybe?). So I credit him with a sense of humor but didn't read far enough to know how well the literary device works.

But quite aside from his soft salesmanship for the book on ISG, I find it interesting that, whereas I, and I assume others, keep our identities at arms-length from others on the forum, Lonely's face and name (or nom de plume) are on the cover of his book, and he connects himself to it here in the forum. So as it is, any one of us will know him if we pass him in a hotel lobby. I can't imagine living my mongering in that way.

I will probably never know what sort of tone he sets in the book, but I have often fantasized about writing an accurately detailed and balanced book that shows the real lives of prostitutes and mongers. As it is we have a few books by ex-prostitutes that often strike me as sensationalized and exaggerated in the interest of selling books. And on the other hand are the ridiculous "save the exploited prostitutes" documentaries, like the one a few years ago about AC created by a couple of naive, feminist professors from somewhere in the Canadian Maritimes.

What is needed, in my view, is a set of personal, candid essays that present actual life experiences--warts, rainbows, epiphanies and all--from both the woman's and the monger's viewpoint. The difficulty is that people capable of writing something like this well cannot afford to be associated with the subject matter for professional reasons. And in the meantime, except for those who have participated in it, most of the world has a distorted and (negatively) mythologized understanding of the world of sex for money.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1627743]I live here and don't know how to get it.[/QUOTE]Whew, thought it was only me that couldn't get some!

Hello fellow pooners, I'm going to be in manila mid October. I either need information on where to get viagra in manila or I need to find a reliable online drugstore that can airmail some viagra to me here in america in a week.

Any intel will be much appreciated, thanks in advance, LAT.

[quote=nixonbd;1627734]having been to patts four years in a row, was thinking about a change of venue and pi came to mind. just in general terms; are the two even remotely the same. we know patts and feel very safe where we stay and in the areas we venture into. having no knowledge of pi; any input on what makes pi a consideration would appreciated. also, it's not all about saving money at all; just a change of scenery. how do the girls, prices, locale and accommodations compare?

thanks in advance. also, if anyone has questions about patts, please feel free to ask.[/quote]okay nixon here's my opinion on the pattaya vs the pi or maybe the pi vs thailand. i am talking in general about bargirls, freelancers, etc. i don't pursue the dating site action.

the 2 countries are of course apples and oranges and the pi is an orange w / thorns, the fruit is less expensive (in the pi) and sweeter on the inside but more trouble lurks there. i went to pattaya one time in 2010 and haven't been back there after taking my first trip to the pi. now i always go to the pi for my annual asian fuckathon even though the visual quality is a little less than thailand, there is something about the pi.

my pi rotation focuses on ac (1), cebu and then manila and all 3 cities offer a different mongering scene. ac has the quantity and low prices, it's a gritty dirty place w / fields avenue on one end and the perimeter rd bars on the other, a 1/2 mile apart, one long ass street. the ac ladies are more giving w / their time and i enjoy their personalities more than their big city peers. in cebu and manila the ladies are much prettier in general and much more costly, but all 3 places have interesting scenes. if you have the time, there are always bargains but for 2 week millionaires it's harder to find them.

if you spend some time reading the cebu and manila forums (go back a year or more) you get the specifics about each place. the ac forum (here) is used as a general forum so you might have to go to another board to get relevant ac information. there are raids (less lately) and more scams, pickpockets, aggressive kids that can swarm a guy but there are remedies for all these issues. stay away from the bad areas and that includes perimeter rd at night.

in makati (burgos street) it's as safe as can be w / burgos street full of bars w / very good looking women, pricey though. the freelancer scene on burgos is a blast, full of decent or better action after 10 pm, very safe. alright, there's just too much info and i don't have the time for every detail, good luck.

burgos freelancers. these 2 approached and told me they wanted to suck my dick. i asked, are you any good? they said, we're the best.

turns out they were for around 3000 p the both.

Yes Skip, putting my face on the cover has caused me lots of Paparazzi problems, but I enjoy the fame. Glad you liked the book. The book is supposed to be linked to about 300 lbs of.

Porn I filmed during the trip. I haven't seen the book so I don't know if my editor got it in there as ordered. But you can PM me for the link if it's not in the book. The link also includes.

Film from the Ghana trip. I will be going to a different country this year. 5 part series, 5 different countries.

A personal note: I think in our business we need to be careful not to get in a rut. An small Cuban island got me. I had such a great time that I continued to return, over and over to the.

Neglect of the rest of the world. Like the guy in the post just below mine. I congratulate him on breaking out of his mold. There are beautiful ladies waiting for us all around the world.

Don't get bogged down. Stay mobile.

[QUOTE=LuvAsianTang;1628061]Hello fellow pooners, I'm going to be in manila mid October. I either need information on where to get viagra in manila or I need to find a reliable online drugstore that can airmail some viagra to me here in america in a week.

Any intel will be much appreciated, thanks in advance, LAT.[/QUOTE]Walk down any street in Ermita or Malate. Its the same stuff you'll get from an Indian online pharmacy. In the alternative, depending on what country you're in, you can get an online consultation from a physician, pay the premium price and have the real stuff delivered to your door in 24 hours. Some have remarked that they've just walked into drug stores here and bought it. I never tried that.

It's 11:06 am My GF has been on the phone for 5 hours and 6 minutes waiting to speak to a Smart customer service representative. This entire country is beyond consumer fraud. Any state AG's office in the United States would shut Smart down in a heartbeat if they did business like that there. And these people just take it. As long as there's singing and dancing on TV, they're happy. Oh, and I forgot the rice, Red Horse and some poon tang. Yet another reason why foreigners aren't allowed to own guns here.

[QUOTE=Mbsl65;1627833]To be honest, I have not seen any sales pitch<snip.>[/QUOTE]Mentioning it once is cheeky but does no harm. Mentioning it repeatedly in successive posts is for all intents & purposes, Unsolicited Commercial Advertising. SPAM.

AV.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1628147]It's 11:06 am My GF has been on the phone for 5 hours and 6 minutes waiting to speak to a Smart customer service representative. This entire country is beyond consumer fraud. Any state AG's office in the United States would shut Smart down in a heartbeat if they did business like that there. <snip>[/QUOTE]You obviously have not had to deal with Telco's in Australia then. Phils is not alone in this regard. Be thankful for your blessings, don't sweat the small stuff.

AV.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1628143]Walk down any street in Ermita or Malate. Its the same stuff you'll get from an Indian online pharmacy. In the alternative, depending on what country you're in, you can get an online consultation from a physician, pay the premium price and have the real stuff delivered to your door in 24 hours. Some have remarked that they've just walked into drug stores here and bought it. I never tried that.[/QUOTE]As mentioned recently, Cialis has a supply problem in the Phils. Street Cialis is currently fake. Street Viagra is not fake.
Mercury drug stores are likely to ask a prescription but a smile & promise to bring it next time can often get you off the hook. Watson's is far less strict but you can be asked. Prices in drug stores are way above street prices. You will be asked P1000 on the street but P300 for a box of V is appropriate.

AV.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1628147]It's 11:06 am My GF has been on the phone for 5 hours and 6 minutes waiting to speak to a Smart customer service representative. This entire country is beyond consumer fraud. Any state AG's office in the United States would shut Smart down in a heartbeat if they did business like that there..[/QUOTE]But in Philippines telcos own the politicians who own all the laws.

Or a dozen injunctions will be filed, a-la Marcos family and nobody will remember anything after a while.

How can they enforce anything?

P.S. Strangely recently Generics Pharmacy claimed I needed a prescription for TigerFil.

I'm coming to Manila from the US next month. Everything I need will fit into a small overheard bag, which leaves me an empty suitcase to bring things in. Is there anything that I can bring that I can easily sell in the Philippines? I bought an unlocked iPhone 6 from the Apple Store. I still have lots of space. Anything suggestions? I have a friend who financed an entire trip to Africa with Apple products. I'd love to make some cash while I'm traveling. (No drugs, of course.).

[QUOTE=Commonglass;1629387]I'm coming to Manila from the US next month. Everything I need will fit into a small overheard bag, which leaves me an empty suitcase to bring things in. Is there anything that I can bring that I can easily sell in the Philippines? I bought an unlocked iPhone 6 from the Apple Store. I still have lots of space. Anything suggestions? I have a friend who financed an entire trip to Africa with Apple products. I'd love to make some cash while I'm traveling. (No drugs, of course.).[/QUOTE]I've got an iPhone 6 and, because it's not yet available here, it attracts lots of attention from people who notice it. I'm guessing that on a 64 or 128 GB model you could likely make $400-500 but I'm only guessing. The premium will of course disappear once the phones start selling here, which I'm told by the staff of my local PowerMac center will likely be in December. You could advertise the phone before you come to see if there's any interest. There's a local service here called Lozada that's offering phones, doubtless brought in from elsewhere on a COD basis. Other than the iPhone 6, Apple product are readily available.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1629392]I've got an iPhone 6 and, because it's not yet available here, it attracts lots of attention from people who notice it. I'm guessing that on a 64 or 128 GB model you could likely make $400-500 but I'm only guessing. The premium will of course disappear once the phones start selling here, which I'm told by the staff of my local PowerMac center will likely be in December. You could advertise the phone before you come to see if there's any interest. There's a local service here called Lozada that's offering phones, doubtless brought in from elsewhere on a COD basis. Other than the iPhone 6, Apple product are readily available.

GE.[/QUOTE]Some of the online coupon sites were offering very limited quantities the other day.

6.
[URL]http://www.ensogo.com.ph/products/apple-iphone-6-in-3-variants-09232014.html?utm_source=BestSellerNewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Electronics&popup=false&sc_src=email_1099140&sc_eh=27fce4de8f9919a21&sc_customer=[/URL]

Valid for one of these Apple iPhone 6.
Apple iPhone 6 16 GB for P47399 (valued at P83000).
Apple iPhone 6 64 GB for P51999 (valued at P89000).
Apple iPhone 6 128 GB for P54399 (valued at P96000).

6 plus.
[URL]http://www.ensogo.com.ph/products/apple-iphone-6-plus-09232014.html?utm_source=BestSellerNewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Electronics&popup=false&sc_src=email_1099140&sc_eh=27fce4de8f9919a21&sc_customer=[/URL]

Valid for one of these Apple iPhone 6 Plus.
Apple iPhone 6 Plus 16 GB for P69999 (valued at P120000).
Apple iPhone 6 Plus 64 GB for P76999 (valued at P140000).
Apple iPhone 6 Plus 128 GB for P83399 (valued at P168000).

Is a 128 GB 6 plus really "valued" at approx. $4000?

Just saw a short post on Dragon Slayer's forum repeating a news story from yesterday regarding the murder of two older Swiss tourists at a beach resort in Misamis Oriental. Both guys were older, one 67 and the other 70 something, and both were with (presumably younger) Filipinas. The two ken were killed in broad daylight in the parking lot of a resort, and, surprise, the gunmen escaped.

Misamis is not one of the areas known for excessive violence and as an older foreigner, this story causes me sooe concern. I've just checked so, e of the published articles, which are sparse on any details, but they do confirm that this happened.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1629661]Just saw a short post on Dragon Slayer's forum repeating a news story from yesterday regarding the murder of two older Swiss tourists at a beach resort in Misamis Oriental. Both guys were older, one 67 and the other 70 something, and both were with (presumably younger) Filipinas. The two ken were killed in broad daylight in the parking lot of a resort, and, surprise, the gunmen escaped.

Misamis is not one of the areas known for excessive violence and as an older foreigner, this story causes me sooe concern. I've just checked so, e of the published articles, which are sparse on any details, but they do confirm that this happened.

GE.[/QUOTE][URL]http://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2014/10/05/2-swiss-nationals-gunned-down-in-opol-misamis-oriental/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2-swiss-nationals-gunned-down-in-opol-misamis-oriental[/URL]

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1629661]Both guys were older, one 67 and the other 70 something, and both were with (presumably younger) Filipinas. The two ken were killed in broad daylight in the parking lot of a resort, and, surprise, the gunmen escaped.
Misamis is not one of the areas known for excessive violence and as an older foreigner, this story causes me some concern.GE.[/QUOTE]Yes, they were younger Filipina partners, and from the vibes I have heard a love triangle was involved. Looks like a targeted killing. A similar foreigner (Michael Turner) killing occurred in the same Opol CdO locality two years ago, unsolved, and again the hallmarks of a targeted killing. The killers were unmasked, used high power weapons, with silencer. No robbery was involved and the gunmen apparently fled in a taxi. I wonder if they paid the meter.

The local Vice Governor Joey Pelaez posted: "We condemn the shooting of foreign guests in the province of Misamis Oriental. We call on the Philippine National Police to immediately work on the apprehension of the perpetrators of this dastardly act. " Let's hope so. Judging from some of the recent Philippines crimes the PNP could well start by looking within its own ranks.

It can be a dangerous region. In July last year, militants from a little-known al-Qaida-inspired group called Khilafa Islamiyah Mindanao are the ones suspected of detonating a bomb in Cagayan de Oro that killed eight people and wounded dozens of others in a crowded downtown bar.

Be alert and aware.

Kongking's report is probably pretty accurate, regarding these two murders. Interesting how there is very little mention in the national press! Don't want to upset the tourists, do we? Obviously a targeted hit and no robbery associated with the crime. That the getaway vehicle was a taxi is bizarre. Suggests that someone 'untouchable' and therefore not concerned about police inquiries could be involved. This one strikes close to home, as I've spent quite a bit of time in CDO, dating a number of young Filipinas. The reality is that this is a dangerous country and so-called 'law enforcement' is not going to protect us. "Pay your money and take your chance"!

[QUOTE=Questor55;1630035]The reality is that this is a dangerous country and so-called 'law enforcement' is not going to protect us. "Pay your money and take your chance"![/QUOTE]A P100,000 reward has been posted today for information that leads to the arrest of the slayers.

See: [URL]http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/local-news/2014/10/08/guv-offers-p100000-reward-info-swiss-killers-369836[/URL].

More information is given on the background to the slaying of the two Swiss foreigners.

But the process of crime investigation and justice is slow in the Philippines. It is now 4 days since the killings and it seems the police are still to do the basic initial crime investigations. To quote from this press article:

-"aside from the cooperation of the beach resort owners to provide authorities with copies of the CCTV footage that could help in identifying the killers, the task group is also making attempts at getting vital information from the Swiss victims' Filipino female partners. ".

-"the task group has yet to obtain affidavits from them (the partners)".

-"SOCO has yet to determine the exact number of bullets fired by the gunmen".

-"the police are still composing an artist's sketch of the suspects based on the accounts of the witnesses".

Justice moves slowly, if at all, in the Philippines; vis the Michael Turner murder at the same spot 3 years ago and the Maguindanao massacre of 58 people.

[QUOTE=Questor55;1630035]Kongking's report is probably pretty accurate, regarding these two murders. Interesting how there is very little mention in the national press! Don't want to upset the tourists, do we? Obviously a targeted hit and no robbery associated with the crime. That the getaway vehicle was a taxi is bizarre. Suggests that someone 'untouchable' and therefore not concerned about police inquiries could be involved. This one strikes close to home, as I've spent quite a bit of time in CDO, dating a number of young Filipinas. The reality is that this is a dangerous country and so-called 'law enforcement' is not going to protect us. "Pay your money and take your chance"![/QUOTE]Happens everyday in every country. Love triangle killing.

[QUOTE=KongKing;1629717]Yes, they were younger Filipina partners, and from the vibes I have heard a love triangle was involved. Looks like a targeted killing. A similar foreigner (Michael Turner) killing occurred in the same Opol CdO locality two years ago, unsolved, and again the hallmarks of a targeted killing. The killers were unmasked, used high power weapons, with silencer. No robbery was involved and the gunmen apparently fled in a taxi. I wonder if they paid the meter.

The local Vice Governor Joey Pelaez posted: "We condemn the shooting of foreign guests in the province of Misamis Oriental. We call on the Philippine National Police to immediately work on the apprehension of the perpetrators of this dastardly act. " Let's hope so. Judging from some of the recent Philippines crimes the PNP could well start by looking within its own ranks.

It can be a dangerous region. In July last year, militants from a little-known al-Qaida-inspired group called Khilafa Islamiyah Mindanao are the ones suspected of detonating a bomb in Cagayan de Oro that killed eight people and wounded dozens of others in a crowded downtown bar.

Be alert and aware.[/QUOTE]The fact is, there's no real criminal justice system here and everyone knows it. This is why the residents of Davao applaud the Mayor's approach to self-administered justice. That is, HE finds the crooks and then kills them. Works for me.

GE.

Yesterday, I showed up at the Davao airport for my weekly trip to my least favorite city, Manila. As is usual for me, the Cebu Pacifc flight boarded and left on time, and about 90 minutes later we were over Manila, which is when the fun began. Remember that the Manila airport can only use one runway at a time, and has ground equipment that's so old replacement parts are no longer available, so under the best of circumstances, it can't manage more than a single take-off or landing in less than about 10 minutes--as compared to a take-off or landing every 15 seconds or so common in modern airports. So, as usual, we began to circle. After about 10 minutes, the Captain announced that we were number 20 for landing and he had no idea how long it would take to get on the ground. About 10 minutes later, he got back on the PA and announced , in the interest of passenger safety, he would divert to Clark, refuel there, and then try again for Manila.

So we landed at Clark about two and a half hours after taking off from Davao, and were then told by the crew that severe thunderstorms over Manila had turned airline schedules into a shambles. I asked approximately how long the Captain thought it would take us to refuel, fly to Manila and then actually land. He had no idea, though was quite pleasant about it. I then asked if we could debark at Clark and make our own way to Manila. He responded that so long as we had no checked bags he had no problem with it, and so about 23 of us to decided to take that option. However, we were held on the plane for another 30 minutes or so, while CP arranged for a bus to take us to the terminal. Getting onto the bus was when the real fun started as evidently the crew thought there should be one more person on the bus than actually showed up. They spent another 30 minutes trying to find the person.

Eventually, we were taken to the terminal and left to our own devices. I wound up getting the last apartment at Fields Plaza, which is owned by ABC, and all of the hotel rooms were taken. This morning I had to hire a car and driver to take me to Makati, where I arrived approximately 24 hours after having left Davao. More fun in the Philippines.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1630128]Yesterday, I showed up at the Davao airport for my weekly trip to my least favorite city, Manila. As is usual for me, the Cebu Pacifc flight boarded and left on time, and about 90 minutes later we were over Manila, which is when the fun began. Remember that the Manila airport can only use one runway at a time, and has ground equipment that's so old replacement parts are no longer available, so under the best of circumstances, it can't manage more than a single take-off or landing in less than about 10 minutes--as compared to a take-off or landing every 15 seconds or so common in modern airports. So, as usual, we began to circle. After about 10 minutes, the Captain announced that we were number 20 for landing and he had no idea how long it would take to get on the ground. About 10 minutes later, he got back on the PA and announced , in the interest of passenger safety, he would divert to Clark, refuel there, and then try again for Manila.

So we landed at Clark about two and a half hours after taking off from Davao, and were then told by the crew that severe thunderstorms over Manila had turned airline schedules into a shambles. I asked approximately how long the Captain thought it would take us to refuel, fly to Manila and then actually land. He had no idea, though was quite pleasant about it. I then asked if we could debark at Clark and make our own way to Manila. He responded that so long as we had no checked bags he had no problem with it, and so about 23 of us to decided to take that option. However, we were held on the plane for another 30 minutes or so, while CP arranged for a bus to take us to the terminal. Getting onto the bus was when the real fun started as evidently the crew thought there should be one more person on the bus than actually showed up. They spent another 30 minutes trying to find the person.

Eventually, we were taken to the terminal and left to our own devices. I wound up getting the last apartment at Fields Plaza, which is owned by ABC, and all of the hotel rooms were taken. This morning I had to hire a car and driver to take me to Makati, where I arrived approximately 24 hours after having left Davao. More fun in the Philippines.

GE.[/QUOTE]With all due respect I am trying to understand the point of your story.

If you changed Manila to Houston; Clark to Austin; Cebu Pacific to United Airlines, then I have been on the same flight.

[QUOTE=KongKing;1630116]But the process of crime investigation and justice is slow in the Philippines.[/QUOTE]What ever happened to those four wealthy lads charged with murdering the husband, a USMC officer I recall, of a US embassy employee in Bel Air, Makati about 2 years ago? The entire murder was captured on CCTV and broadcast to the nation. They still walking free?

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1630156]What ever happened to those four wealthy lads charged with murdering the husband, a USMC officer I recall, of a US embassy employee in Bel Air, Makati about 2 years ago? The entire murder was captured on CCTV and broadcast to the nation. They still walking free?[/QUOTE]They bonded out about 6 months ago. It doesn't matter if it was recorded on CCTV. They got dissed by a foreigner. Privileged little a $$holes daddys are paying big time. He was the husband of a USA Embassy official. She's getting about as much help from Obama as Chris Smith did in Benghazi.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1630124]The fact is, there's no real criminal justice system here and everyone knows it. This is why the residents of Davao applaud the Mayor's approach to self-administered justice. That is, HE finds the crooks and then kills them. Works for me. GE.[/QUOTE]Works for you? Really? You call that justice? Scary...

[QUOTE=Mogwai;1630192]Works for you? Really? You call that justice? Scary...[/QUOTE]Well if you lived in Phil as long as Good Enough has and seen all the things HE has seen in his tenure there you would understand where HE is coming from. Of course Mayor Duente is out of line but 20 years ago Davao was a VERY unsafe city and now from all the visits I have taken there since 2004 it is one of the cleanest safest cities in Phil. The justice system in that country is abominable, just look at the case of all the journalist killed in Catabato about 4 years ago. It is still not resolved with any prison terms for the guilty parties.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;1630192]Works for you? Really? You call that justice? Scary...[/QUOTE]Mogawi,

Come and live her and it may help you better understand GE's response.

For example, apart from the 8 cops who held up a car on EDSA to steal cash, we have 12 cops in Cebu who have administrative cases against them for a number of years (extortion, use of firearms) - but not yet dismissed still working, 3 cops involved in murders in Visayas, 7 cops involved in another alleged murder of a well know lawyer, a cop behind the alleged murder of a prominent businessman (the Davao Mayor ordered that policeman to stand down. Unlike many other in a such a position).

I could go on and on but I won't. Life is cheap here (see the FR about the daylight murder of 2 Swiss nationals in CDO).

The mayor is regarded as the best bet for 2016 as he is tough. No one I know here has a bad word for him, all applaud the fact HE does something and wish he stands for election as they would vote for him.

So far 6 million people have signed a petition to ask him to reconsider his comment HE would never stand. But in a recent interview HE gave a hypothetical view of life in the Philippine under his Presidency. It would scare many of ruling elite / families but was welcomed by those who heard it and the comments in the press from readers were very supportive.

Sometimes western democracy as we understand it does not work. A benevolent tyrant is better (look at the Middle East now without Saddam, Ghaddafi, Asad (to a degree)) and hat was then Yugoslavia.

So I fully understand GE's viewpoint on this. Well said GE.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1630181]They bonded out about 6 months ago. It doesn't matter if it was recorded on CCTV. They got dissed by a foreigner. Privileged little a $$holes daddys are paying big time. He was the husband of a USA Embassy official. She's getting about as much help from Obama as Chris Smith did in Benghazi.[/QUOTE]Also I think some have now moved to the USA to study forever LOL.

The judge said the CCTV was not strong enough evidence which kind of shocked a lot of people (prosecution especially as this was the key evidence. Look on You Tube and decide yourself). And one of the accused daddies was complaining to PNoy (and the media) that his on was in a cell with bad and dangerous men (of course he should be treated like a princess instead LOL).

As you said Slippery. Rich kids so different laws.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1630128]Yesterday, I showed up at the Davao airport for my weekly trip to my least favorite city, Manila. As is usual for me, the Cebu Pacifc flight boarded and left on time, and about 90 minutes later we were over Manila, which is when the fun began. Remember that the Manila airport can only use one runway at a time, and has ground equipment that's so old replacement parts are no longer available, so under the best of circumstances, it can't manage more than a single take-off or landing in less than about 10 minutes--as compared to a take-off or landing every 15 seconds or so common in modern airports. More fun in the Philippines.

GE[/QUOTE]This is why I now only take morning flights to Manila less chance of a screw up. I took an evening flight, to Cebu, was told it was cancelled and no seat left on any other flight that night so "you need find hotel but we can't pay sir".

Manila again in the worlds worst airports and the government keeps saying be patient we are getting better. But is run by idiots.

GE. You see PNoy appointed his cousin to Clark airport board. Commentary in press was it was not nepotism despite him being young and having no airline / airport experience. Ces't la vie GE.

[QUOTE=Mogwai;1630192]Works for you? Really? You call that justice? Scary...[/QUOTE]It works for me. When the justice system of authority breaks down, it will be picked up in some other way. Vigilante-ism, regional military, etc. The best hope is for a benevolent dictator (Davao's mayor maybe). Davao's mayor is better than the alternative broken CJ system (IMHO).

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1630275]It works for me. When the justice system of authority breaks down, it will be picked up in some other way. Vigilante-ism, regional military, etc. The best hope is for a benevolent dictator (Davao's mayor maybe). Davao's mayor is better than the alternative broken CJ system (IMHO).[/QUOTE]Forgot to mention Mog.

In this country it can take 10+ years for justice so the cops etc know this and don't care as until they get to court they won't stand down and continue to extort, kill etc As another poster said, the massacre victims in 2009 (Google it) still wait a trial. And no one seems able to say to the 54 families when it will happen.

One case of plunder was thrown out after 10 years as the useless judiciary system had not prepared / presented the case to the courts so the alleged guilty walked free. Another person (mayor) has 2 plunder charges against her for bank fraud (huge fraud) but is still mayor.

So when the Davao mayor says he will kill them (such as rice smugglers while in a senate hearing) people like him. Odd for you and many others (including me who hails from a 'democratic' country where people tend to do the right thing) but as I said sometimes your style won't work so wild west is best LOL.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1630222]Also I think some have now moved to the USA to study forever LOL.

The judge said the CCTV was not strong enough evidence which kind of shocked a lot of people (prosecution especially as this was the key evidence. Look on You Tube and decide yourself). And one of the accused daddies was complaining to PNoy (and the media) that his on was in a cell with bad and dangerous men (of course he should be treated like a princess instead LOL).

As you said Slippery. Rich kids so different laws.[/QUOTE]Roger, you know as well as I do that Obama would never permit a murder to just walk into the United States. They wade in.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1630278]Forgot to mention Mog.

In this country it can take 10+ years for justice so the cops etc know this and don't care as until they get to court they won't stand down and continue to extort, kill etc As another poster said, the massacre victims in 2009 (Google it) still wait a trial. And no one seems able to say to the 54 families when it will happen.

One case of plunder was thrown out after 10 years as the useless judiciary system had not prepared / presented the case to the courts so the alleged guilty walked free. Another person (mayor) has 2 plunder charges against her for bank fraud (huge fraud) but is still mayor.

So when the Davao mayor says he will kill them (such as rice smugglers while in a senate hearing) people like him. Odd for you and many others (including me who hails from a 'democratic' country where people tend to do the right thing) but as I said sometimes your style won't work so wild west is best LOL.[/QUOTE]Sorry to butt in here WR. This kind of populism is very understandable. Those of us who make this place home are just as frustrated with the situation as the locals. Unfortunately benevolent dictators don't _stay_ benevolent once in power. Marcos is still well thought of by many here, he did good things in his early presidency before the power / money got to him. The place has rampant corruption already. God know's how much worse it would be under Davao's mayor using his iron fist policies. Don't get me wrong, it's nice to know that when I visit Davao, the local mayor kicks criminal ass big time. But who is to say that every extra judicial killing carried out by him is justified. How many innocents have been slaughtered along the way? How soon into his hypothetical presidency before HE does a Gloria and starts bumping off political rivals. Nah, I'll look for a better solution thanks.

Hopefully the economic bubble lasts long enough to raise living standards / education / expectations sufficiently for a grass roots change in their society here. I'm not holding my breathe on that but I remain optimistic that some day this crazy little archipelago will haul itself up by its boot straps.

Let's see.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1630485]Sorry to butt in here WR. This kind of populism is very understandable. Those of us who make this place home are just as frustrated with the situation as the locals. Unfortunately benevolent dictators don't _stay_ benevolent once in power. Marcos is still well thought of by many here, he did good things in his early presidency before the power / money got to him. The place has rampant corruption already. God know's how much worse it would be under Davao's mayor using his iron fist policies. Don't get me wrong, it's nice to know that when I visit Davao, the local mayor kicks criminal ass big time. But who is to say that every extra judicial killing carried out by him is justified. How many innocents have been slaughtered along the way? How soon into his hypothetical presidency before HE does a Gloria and starts bumping off political rivals. Nah, I'll look for a better solution thanks.

Hopefully the economic bubble lasts long enough to raise living standards / education / expectations sufficiently for a grass roots change in their society here. I'm not holding my breathe on that but I remain optimistic that some day this crazy little archipelago will haul itself up by its boot straps. [/QUOTE]I am with AV all the way on this. Very eloquent expression of my views too.

Just a PSA: Republiq at Resorts World is now closed. A new club named "Universe" launches tonight next door. Open to the public this weekend. Door is p500. Table rates will be from p4k to p20k, will vary by night of week.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1630485] This kind of populism is very understandable. Those of us who make this place home are just as frustrated with the situation as the locals. Unfortunately benevolent dictators don't _stay_ benevolent once in power. Marcos is still well thought of by many here, he did good things in his early presidency before the power / money got to him. The place has rampant corruption already. God know's how much worse it would be under Davao's mayor using his iron fist policies. But who is to say that every extra judicial killing carried out by him is justified. How many innocents have been slaughtered along the way? How soon into his hypothetical presidency before HE does a Gloria and starts bumping off political rivals. Nah, I'll look for a better solution thanks.

Hopefully the economic bubble lasts long enough to raise living standards / education / expectations sufficiently for a grass roots change in their society here..[/QUOTE]I would agree, but I speak to a lot of people here including air crew (am always on a plane to and form Manila) about heir own country. One said her parents wish Marcos was back. I expressed horror but her logic was "HE was very bad, HE stole but we has good schools, hospital etc. Now there are thousands of Marcos type people all stealing and we have nothing and we are never going to get better". They loom at Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia etc with envy and ask how can it be that the Philippines has slipped so low.

That logic is understandable IMHO.

All the things you say are correct (and RK is also right) I am just saying what hear. And change from the status quo could easily be a drastic shift to something that could in the end be far worse but we all know, when things are not great at the moment people look for 'deliverance' and hope for the immediate term, whoever it may be (eg look at Hitler. Complete nut head, evil bastard but everyone loved him as HE was a drastic change from the then status quo and promised a better life).

I hope things get better for the everyday pinoy and the grass roots will improve and change everyone's lot but I also don't hold my breathe.

Am just stating facts and what I am told by many I speak and socialize with who see the gun totting Davao mayor as (currently) this country's best choice for change / salvation from the current mess (whether we like it or not).

That seems a bit steep. If you just order a drink and wander around, is that okay? Are there free seats on the perimeter? That is my preferred modus operandi if I don't have a date. Thanks for the update.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1630563]Just a PSA: Republiq at Resorts World is now closed. A new club named "Universe" launches tonight next door. Open to the public this weekend. Door is p500. Table rates will be from p4k to p20k, will vary by night of week.[/QUOTE]

Have you met AV? I've never met anyone who has met him.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1630546]I am with AV all the way on this. Very eloquent expression of my views too.[/QUOTE]

Hard to believe, but this is a particularly bad month to be Swiss in Mindanao. Report in today's Manila Times that a 23 year old Swiss, Forian Mayer, was killed in Surigao City. Robbery apparently not the motive. That makes three Swiss nationals murdered in Mindanao this week alone!

I understand AV's point, and don't disagree, as I'm a strong civil libertarian. However, the practice of civil liberties and functional government institutions presupposes, I think, the existence of a functional democracy, which is far from the reality here. This is, above all else, a feudal society and "strong men" (and in some cases women) rule with impunity throughout the country. Perhaps benevolent tyrants are the best that can be hoped for here. Many foreigners who live here, myself included, think first of their own safety, and worry less as time goes by, about the absolute failure of this country to develop functional democratic institutions, which I believe will never emerge. I would also argue that economic development in other, more prosperous ASEAN countries has proceeded under the aegis of more or less benevolent strong men. I'm thinking here of Singapore and to an extent, Malaysia, both of which outstrip the Philipines by several orders of magnitude, came have developed under virtual one party rule.

So, in a pragmatic world, in which the ideal development path is closed, a Duterte is, I think, about the best that this place can do. In the ten plus years that I've been here, there's been no visible progress in the emergence of true democracy, and the country has slipped ever further behind its neighbors. Perhaps I'm the victim of the cynicism that accompanies growing older, but I don't believe that the basic nature of this place will ever change.

GE.

gentlemen,

thanks for all the great information from the past year. i am planning an upcoming trip to the phils, and had a question that i don't think i have ever seen on isg before.

my question is about the identification that would likely be carried by freelancers in la caf and other similar venues (caf havana, malls). i am a little paranoid about taking out a woman who is lying about her age and actually under 18.

i do appreciate that fake ids are likely fairly easily obtained. in addition, even checking for identification probably will not protect me from a corrupt cop (whether a real cop or not) intent on scamming me. in the past, i have carded fls and gotten stuff like library cards and student ids. however, considering the latest static about **** scams, i am thinking it would be wise to educate myself about this subject and be a little more cautious.

i did a little research and found the philippine unified multi purpose identification card (see attachment). is this type of identification normally carried by most people? i would imagine that even a la caf freelancer would have some type of government issued identification. probably not a passport or drivers license, but something.

what are the most likely forms of official identification that i would find in la caf or robinson mall?

thanks in advance.

[quote=whatsurname;1630840]gentlemen,

thanks for all the great information from the past year. i am planning an upcoming trip to the phils, and had a question that i don't think i have ever seen on isg before.

my question is about the identification that would likely be carried by freelancers in la caf and other similar venues (caf havana, malls). i am a little paranoid about taking out a woman who is lying about her age and actually under 18.

i do appreciate that fake ids are likely fairly easily obtained. in addition, even checking for identification probably will not protect me from a corrupt cop (whether a real cop or not) intent on scamming me. in the past, i have carded fls and gotten stuff like library cards and student ids. however, considering the latest static about **** scams, i am thinking it would be wise to educate myself about this subject and be a little more cautious.

i did a little research and found the philippine unified multi purpose identification card (see attachment). is this type of identification normally carried by most people? i would imagine that even a la caf freelancer would have some type of government issued identification. probably not a passport or drivers license, but something.

what are the most likely forms of official identification that i would find in la caf or robinson mall?

thanks in advance.[/quote]that's a good question and i know it was discussed here a long while ago. i have experienced walking in to lac with girl who was stopped by the guard and asked for id. he didn't like her id and wouldn't permit her entrance. fwiw you may take some comfort knowing that lac attempts to prevent the ****d from entering; of course if they get it wrong it's you who bears the consequence solely. this also happened once when entering a nightclub. the unfamiliar-to-me ids i've seen are the barangay id and the postal id. i have no idea how to determine legit from fake.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1630586]I would agree, but I speak to a lot of people here including air crew (am always on a plane to and form Manila) about heir own country. One said her parents wish Marcos was back. I expressed horror but her logic was "HE was very bad, HE stole but we has good schools, hospital etc. Now there are thousands of Marcos type people all stealing and we have nothing and we are never going to get better". They loom at Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia etc with envy and ask how can it be that the Philippines has slipped so low.

That logic is understandable IMHO.

All the things you say are correct (and RK is also right) I am just saying what hear. And change from the status quo could easily be a drastic shift to something that could in the end be far worse but we all know, when things are not great at the moment people look for 'deliverance' and hope for the immediate term, whoever it may be (eg look at Hitler. Complete nut head, evil bastard but everyone loved him as HE was a drastic change from the then status quo and promised a better life).

I hope things get better for the everyday pinoy and the grass roots will improve and change everyone's lot but I also don't hold my breathe.

Am just stating facts and what I am told by many I speak and socialize with who see the gun totting Davao mayor as (currently) this country's best choice for change / salvation from the current mess (whether we like it or not).[/QUOTE]Absolutely Roge. I hear the same things yes. Your points are valid. We are on the same page about this.

AV.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1630816]I understand AV's point, and don't disagree, as I'm a strong civil libertarian. However, the practice of civil liberties and functional government institutions presupposes, I think, the existence of a functional democracy, which is far from the reality here. This is, above all else, a feudal society and "strong men" (and in some cases women) rule with impunity throughout the country. Perhaps benevolent tyrants are the best that can be hoped for here. Many foreigners who live here, myself included, think first of their own safety, and worry less as time goes by, about the absolute failure of this country to develop functional democratic institutions, which I believe will never emerge. I would also argue that economic development in other, more prosperous ASEAN countries has proceeded under the aegis of more or less benevolent strong men. I'm thinking here of Singapore and to an extent, Malaysia, both of which outstrip the Philipines by several orders of magnitude, came have developed under virtual one party rule.

So, in a pragmatic world, in which the ideal development path is closed, a Duterte is, I think, about the best that this place can do. In the ten plus years that I've been here, there's been no visible progress in the emergence of true democracy, and the country has slipped ever further behind its neighbors. Perhaps I'm the victim of the cynicism that accompanies growing older, but I don't believe that the basic nature of this place will ever change.

GE.[/QUOTE]Yourself, WR & others make valid points. The question then becomes how likely is the benevolent dictator scenario to materialise? As you guys point out many of the disenfranchised locals are frustrated. Recent history shows that populism is a strong factor in PI politics. Its quite possible that Rodrigo Duterte could find his way into the presidency. Stranger things have happened. <cough Erap<cough . Should this come to pass how likely then would HE be able to seize sufficient power to exact any fundamental lasting change? My guess is, at this point in time, very unlikely. Regrettably I think things will have to get a lot worse here before the conditions would be conducive to a siezmic shift in society here.

The ruling families have too much control. The deeply tribal nepotism is ingrained. The inflow of $20 billion annually in remittances keeps the serfs just happy enough to remain complacent. I agree with you GE when you say ' the basic nature of this place will ever change'.

I guess I come back to my point that the more likely scenario is slow modest improvements in living standards will in the long term result in less rural subsistence life styles & hence less complacent or fatalistic attitudes. Its going to take a long time though.

AV.

[quote=xman;1630708]have you met av? i've never met anyone who has met him.[/quote]x-man you are on my ignore list but very occasionally i take a peek to see if you have anything constructive to say.

i first starting posting here more than seven years ago & from my first post you have been there questioning my integrity.

my life is really good & i'm not going to waste a millisecond of it on negative time wasting anonymous internet trolls like you.

i have cordially invited you to meet up for a drink when you are in the pi but i never hear from you yet you keep this drivel coming.

with all due respect, i think you have a mental illness. back to the ignore list for you bucko.

av.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1631178]The question then becomes how likely is the benevolent dictator scenario to materialise?[/QUOTE]Not too likely. Singapore's Lee Kwan Yew comes to mind. Though not benevolent S. Korea's Park Chung Hee is remembered fondly by most there.

I think it's often forgotten that many modern, civilised Western countries went through long periods of brutal barbarity too. It wasn't too long ago that severed heads were posted on pikes by the authorities in London. The change to a more humane and just society was a long evolution, and still many claim to be disenfranchised and exploited.

[quote=amavida;1631180]x-man you are on my ignore list but very occasionally i take a peek to see if you have anything constructive to say.

i first starting posting here more than seven years ago & from my first post you have been there questioning my integrity.

my life is really good & i'm not going to waste a millisecond of it on negative time wasting anonymous internet trolls like you.

i have cordially invited you to meet up for a drink when you are in the pi but i never hear from you yet you keep this drivel coming.

with all due respect, i think you have a mental illness. back to the ignore list for you bucko.

av.[/quote]well said. there are many spartans of the keyboard here, and all have an equal right to spout their opinions.

its up to us, who and when we place these heroes on ignore.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1631198]
I think it's often forgotten that many modern, civilised Western countries went through long periods of brutal barbarity too. It wasn't too long ago that severed heads were posted on pikes by the authorities in London. The change to a more humane and just society was a long evolution, and still many claim to be disenfranchised and exploited.m[/QUOTE]Well said, and if recent events surrounding the outbreak of police brutality in Missouri are any indication, some "developed" countries have still not evolved completely. However historically accurate Hutsori's post may be though, it's important to remember that the pace of dramatic change--particularly in the economic arena--has increased dramatically, and the Philippines, for reasons that we have described ad infinitum is wholly incapable of competing in this arena. Nor is the government doing much beyond the usual bombast to accelerate the pace of meaningful change. My take is that The place is so hopelessly behind the development curve that it will never catch up.

GE.

[QUOTE] police brutality in Missouri [/QUOTE]Not limited to Missouri, unfortunately.

wow! i quoted rk, no need to get all riled up. for the record i've never met rk in person.

if i'm going to meet up with someone for a drink, i'd like to get a little feedback about that person from other friends and acquaintances.

over the past seven years i've never gotten any response to the question, "have you met av?" not one pm.

sorry to drive the point home, but no one on this list has ever said (to me) that they had ever met someone who met av. " those are some weak stats from someone who offers to buy people drinks for seven years. lol.

"anonymous internet troll"? we are all anonymous here on the list. and please follow the list rules and refrain from name calling. and, yes, i do have a mental illness. still want to meet for a drink?

[quote=amavida;1631180]x-man you are on my ignore list but very occasionally i take a peek to see if you have anything constructive to say.

i first starting posting here more than seven years ago & from my first post you have been there questioning my integrity.

my life is really good & i'm not going to waste a millisecond of it on negative time wasting anonymous internet trolls like you.

i have cordially invited you to meet up for a drink when you are in the pi but i never hear from you yet you keep this drivel coming.

with all due respect, i think you have a mental illness. back to the ignore list for you bucko.

av.[/quote]

[quote=hutsori;1631198]not too likely. singapore's lee kwan yew comes to mind. though not benevolent s. korea's park chung hee is remembered fondly by most there.

i think it's often forgotten that many modern, civilised western countries went through long periods of brutal barbarity too. it wasn't too long ago that severed heads were posted on pikes by the authorities in london. the change to a more humane and just society was a long evolution, and still many claim to be disenfranchised and exploited.[/quote]perhaps it's noteworthy that the list of benevolent dictators is short.

following h's lead, i think that the way to proceed hinges on our time horizons. there's an often-quoted african proverb that suggests "if you want to go fast, go alone. if you want to go far, go together. " i too have met some filipinos and fil-ams who remember marcos fondly, but i would suggest they have short memories. in the beginning, when he held the presidency legally, he did many things that appeared on surface to help the philippines. but as his presidency turned into martial law, the longer-term effects of his tyranny and patronage turned out to be devastating to the government, the economy and the society. sadly, others had to clean up his shit--literally in [url=http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord131][CodeWord131][/url] left in his rooms in malacanang--and cleaning it up elsewhere appears to be a never-ending task.

nuff for now.

Hi Guys, a quick question if I may.

I have a sweet young student that I have beeen sponsoring for quite some time. She now has her passport.

I have noticed and heard that filipina immigration maintain a watch on those leaving the country. I would like to buy her a return ticket to Singapore for two nights and meet her there.

Would she likely be prevented from leaving by immigration or denied entry by Singapore. There is no intention to overstay. Then she would just return home.

Any helpful advice would be appreciated. I could also supply her with a request to attend Singapore for job interview on Company letterhead althoughnot sure if this would help much.

Best regards.

OS.

[QUOTE=OffshoreSwell;1631672]Hi Guys, a quick question if I may.

I have a sweet young student that I have beeen sponsoring for quite some time. She now has her passport.

I have noticed and heard that filipina immigration maintain a watch on those leaving the country. I would like to buy her a return ticket to Singapore for two nights and meet her there.

Would she likely be prevented from leaving by immigration or denied entry by Singapore. There is no intention to overstay. Then she would just return home.

Any helpful advice would be appreciated. I could also supply her with a request to attend Singapore for job interview on Company letterhead althoughnot sure if this would help much.
T
Best regards.

OS.[/QUOTE]This was discussed before.

My 2 cents on top, don't show any letter of interview to PH immigration.

The jokers will tag her as an illegal / trafficked person unless she has an agency behind her.

Singapore side is cool as long as she isn't too young or has prior visits denied entry to SG.

Just for one moment, put yourself in the shoes of a filipino immigration officer. This young woman presents at your counter with a brand new passport, and a return ticket for 3 days. She has no money, no assets, knows nothing about where she is going. And tells some cock and bull story about her very generous kano BF who buys her a ticket for Singapore.

And she promises to return after 3 days.

Would you believe her?

I suggest not.

I would be amazed if she makes it through immigration.

G.

[QUOTE=OffshoreSwell;1631672]Hi Guys, a quick question if I may.

I have a sweet young student that I have beeen sponsoring for quite some time. She now has her passport.

I have noticed and heard that filipina immigration maintain a watch on those leaving the country. I would like to buy her a return ticket to Singapore for two nights and meet her there.

Would she likely be prevented from leaving by immigration or denied entry by Singapore. There is no intention to overstay. Then she would just return home.

Any helpful advice would be appreciated. I could also supply her with a request to attend Singapore for job interview on Company letterhead althoughnot sure if this would help much.

Best regards.

OS.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Gangles;1631787]Just for one moment, put yourself in the shoes of a filipino immigration officer. This young woman presents at your counter with a brand new passport, and a return ticket for 3 days. She has no money, no assets, knows nothing about where she is going. And tells some cock and bull story about her very generous kano BF who buys her a ticket for Singapore.

And she promises to return after 3 days.

Would you believe her?

I suggest not.

I would be amazed if she makes it through immigration.

G.[/QUOTE]You may be surprised.

A lot do make it past the immigration in Philippines and into Singapore.

In fact as long as she is above 20 she can get here to SG.

How they do it, I have no idea.

One of the CL hookup I got in Singapore was 19 and her passport said so.

This is as I suspected. Now confirmed. Many thanks all.

Sorry, I did not RTFF if this has been discussed earlier.

OS.

[QUOTE=Gangles;1631787]Just for one moment, put yourself in the shoes of a filipino immigration officer. This young woman presents at your counter with a brand new passport, and a return ticket for 3 days. She has no money, no assets, knows nothing about where she is going. And tells some cock and bull story about her very generous kano BF who buys her a ticket for Singapore.

And she promises to return after 3 days.

Would you believe her?

I suggest not.

I would be amazed if she makes it through immigration.

G.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=OffshoreSwell;1631672]Hi Guys, a quick question if I may.

I have a sweet young student that I have beeen sponsoring for quite some time. She now has her passport.

I have noticed and heard that filipina immigration maintain a watch on those leaving the country. I would like to buy her a return ticket to Singapore for two nights and meet her there.

Would she likely be prevented from leaving by immigration or denied entry by Singapore. .



Best regards.

OS.[/QUOTE]Been there, done that.

Sent her the ticket. Sent her my hotel reservation form. She had her own money to travel with.

She ever got past immigration. They asked her sufficient questions to delay everything until " so sorry miss, but the flight is leaving now, were sorry that you missed the flight".

If I want to bring a "friend", on a business trip I take a Thai or Indonesian. No problem at all.

Things would have to change a lot for me to be motivated enough to ask a Pinay to travel to where I am.

See link to news item.

[URL]http://news.yahoo.com/urban-decay-threatens-hot-philippine-economy-001404882.html[/URL]

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1631948]You may be surprised.

A lot do make it past the immigration in Philippines and into Singapore.

In fact as long as she is above 20 she can get here to SG.

How they do it, I have no idea.

One of the CL hookup I got in Singapore was 19 and her passport said so.[/QUOTE]I did reply to OS original FR with some idea re affidavits that I have used (I know Gangles also has used in the past) but that FR has yet to appear so who know what is happening.

But ET is right but this tends to involve payment that is illegal and one lady officer was recently caught being the centre of a payment scheme to allow girls to go through etc. All in the press.

Best bet is be with her or go somewhere else, I find Malaysia is OK, HK also but again I always recommend you are with her (see my first FR if it ever appears LOL). And you have my contact details also so we can do this offline.

[QUOTE=JpSlicky;1632122]See link to news item.

[URL]http://news.yahoo.com/urban-decay-threatens-hot-philippine-economy-001404882.html[/URL][/QUOTE]Thanks, Jp. Ya, Manila is a clusterfuck with no improvement in sight. I always try to book hotel near the action so travel time is minimized.

Lots of chatter on how corrupt the country is and some of the posters have eloquently stated why there is little hope in reality.

This may seem like another case of tourists being extorted by the police. Am sure it happens a lot more than reported but it involves Saudis.

[URL]http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/644393/nbi-agents-milking-saudi-nationals[/URL]

Now, some will even say the Saudis deserve it etc but regardless of this the incident may prove more embarrassing for the Philippine government than it thinks especially if it does not catch the rogue NBI agent.

Many of you will know about the 'Blue Diamond' Affair in Thailand many years ago (Google it ass a good read). This is far less than (no jewels stolen no deaths) that but the Saudi authorities hold a 'whip hand' over this country as it issues thousands of OFW work visas.

The Thai situation was resolved by the Saudis never again issuing work visas so despite the far less serious nature of this incident if the government let it slide as am sure some in the police would like, it could ultimately impact many families as the Saudis can get DHs etc from other countries. They don't really care (especially when Saudi nationals complained to their government that paying a DH 15-18000 pesos a month was far too much and Africans were cheaper).

Just my view but one that shows how corruption can impact many more in the longer term. And for 25 years or so the Saudis have never issues a work visa.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1632246]Lots of chatter on how corrupt the country is and some of the posters have eloquently stated why there is little hope in reality.

This may seem like another case of tourists being extorted by the police. Am sure it happens a lot more than reported but it involves Saudis.

[URL]http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/644393/nbi-agents-milking-saudi-nationals[/URL]

Now, some will even say the Saudis deserve it etc but regardless of this the incident may prove more embarrassing for the Philippine government than it thinks especially if it does not catch the rogue NBI agent.

Many of you will know about the 'Blue Diamond' Affair in Thailand many years ago (Google it ass a good read). This is far less than (no jewels stolen no deaths) that but the Saudi authorities hold a 'whip hand' over this country as it issues thousands of OFW work visas.

The Thai situation was resolved by the Saudis never again issuing work visas so despite the far less serious nature of this incident if the government let it slide as am sure some in the police would like, it could ultimately impact many families as the Saudis can get DHs etc from other countries. They don't really care (especially when Saudi nationals complained to their government that paying a DH 15-18000 pesos a month was far too much and Africans were cheaper).

Just my view but one that shows how corruption can impact many more in the longer term. And for 25 years or so the Saudis have never issues a work visa.[/QUOTE]You make some good points. One of the reasons there are so many OFW's in Saudi is that there are no agency or recruitment fees for Filipinas who go as DH. For that reason alone, many will put up with going to Saudi instead of say HK or Singapore. Life as a DH in Saudi can be akin to a living hell, as one of my former porn stars is now fallen on hard times and is in Saudi. Yes the Saudis have their own way of ensuring they have the upper hand. But remember that many Saudis are somewhat scared to walk around certain parts of Manila alone as they also know that the Filipinos hate the goat fuckers. And will get their own back sometimes. This case will be interesting to watch.

Hi,

I plan a short trip to the Phils, with a week each in Manila and Cebu city.

I want to get dresses made for GF in each place.

Can anyone give me names, businesses in each place where I can get women's clothing made?

Thanks in anticipation.

G

Maybe the Philippines is leading the US of A in at least one area, but it seems the USA is hell bent on catching up.

The reasons are different between nations though.

[URL]http://www.brookings.edu/blogs/social-mobility-memos/posts/2014/10/13-unwed-childbearing-new-norm-sawhill?utm_campaign=Brookings[/URL]+Brief&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=14485718&_hsenc=p2 ANqtz-9 edEdeRCQrpr-nuWj6 iaTli4 SK38 G6 EPjKi-mhVEu8 Tns78 IHxTdbmFRWoue12 XOnfuISVH_m4 jgOkeSwY5 YD6 Pi_k9 Q&_hsmi=14485718.

[QUOTE=Gangles;1632457]Hi,

I plan a short trip to the Phils, with a week each in Manila and Cebu city.

I want to get dresses made for GF in each place.

Can anyone give me names, businesses in each place where I can get women's clothing made?

Thanks in anticipation.

G[/QUOTE]Every barangay has someone with an industrial sewing machine. Just ask the girls.

AV.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1632540]Maybe the Philippines is leading the US of A in at least one area, but it seems the USA is hell bent on catching up.

The reasons are different between nations though.

[URL]http://www.brookings.edu/blogs/social-mobility-memos/posts/2014/10/13-unwed-childbearing-new-norm-sawhill?utm_campaign=Brookings[/URL]+Brief&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=14485718&_hsenc=p2 ANqtz-9 edEdeRCQrpr-nuWj6 iaTli4 SK38 G6 EPjKi-mhVEu8 Tns78 IHxTdbmFRWoue12 XOnfuISVH_m4 jgOkeSwY5 YD6 Pi_k9 Q&_hsmi=14485718.[/QUOTE]I heard today that Apple and Google (I think) are now offering an egg freezing and storage benefit for women employees, a benefit apparently worth at least $10 K. A cynical take on this is that the companies just want to wring all the possible productivity out of women while they're young, whereas the outcome for women may be ending up in their 40's with few chances to attract a mate, raising the kid (if they choose to get an egg fertilized) well into their 50's or 60's, and odds of viability of the eggs at around 20%. But to the extent women want to live professional lives like men's, this may be an attractive option for the woman who thinks she can have it all. And again, increases the incidence of unwed motherhood.

(Posted this in Hotels and figured this may be the better sub-forum for this question):

I'll be staying at ABC very soon and I don't know the power requirements for my electronics.

Will I need to bring a 220 v to 110 v converter for my trip to Angeles City?

Thanks for your help.

Try Central Market, just north of Manila City Hall.

[QUOTE=Gangles;1632457]Hi,

I plan a short trip to the Phils, with a week each in Manila and Cebu city.

I want to get dresses made for GF in each place.

Can anyone give me names, businesses in each place where I can get women's clothing made?

Thanks in anticipation.

G[/QUOTE]

This may have little to no importance to the jet-set junta who travel in posh comfort by taxi, but if you use public transport this website works wonders for determining which jeep to take from point A to point B - [URL]http://sakay.ph/[/URL].

It uses google maps so it's familiar and accurate, though be warned google maps uses the current street names whereas most signs on transport use the old names often.

It has its flaws, for example travel from Pedro Gil station to Hyatt Hotel it only provides walking info; it's a not a far walk but on a sweltering day it kind of sucks.

May be useful to a girl who needs to travel to your location.

Is there anyone that has a good safe reliable mail order Vitamin see and or V site?

I take off in about 2 weeks from now.

GE and others have posted FRs on using Uber, I know GE is a fan so this article is interesting. Seems the authorities are following the lead from some other parts of the world and trying to stop people using Uber.

Who knows if it will work as some countries have passed laws and that would take time in this country, but scaring the drivers who are connected to Uber plus confiscating the car and a huge fine may deter some from offering themselves as a Uber driver.

[URL]http://technology.inquirer.net/39160/ltfrb-goes-after-uber-vehicles-mmda-disagrees[/URL]

Anyone in Ermita now (10:30 am 24 Oct) may want stroll over to the Diamond Hotel. Cebu Pacific is holding open interviews for FAs and there are a couple hundred applicants there presently. Not as awesomely massive as the Qatar Airways one a few weeks ago. Still...

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1636340]Anyone in Ermita now (10:30 am 24 Oct) may want stroll over to the Diamond Hotel. Cebu Pacific is holding open interviews for FAs and there are a couple hundred applicants there presently. Not as awesomely massive as the Qatar Airways one a few weeks ago. Still...[/QUOTE]Wow, wish I was there now. They hire a lot of cuties. I'd love to have a stewardess girlfriend or wannabe stewardess.

I noticed often a member will mention a good deal they have just received & yet when I go check it out the price is totally different.

Scratch your head no more gents. This article from a University study throws light on price discrimination.

Lesson: buy a bloody iPhone.

[URL]http://www.bostonglobe.com/business/2014/10/22/online-shopping-yields-different-prices-results-says-northeastern-study/ZbSVnoBxPJtA8STeWbpQ9H/story.html[/URL]

AV.

Hello all,

Never been to Phillo, is DIA a workable site and any suggestions of where to stay, eat, monger?

Any help appreciated.

PC out.

[QUOTE=Pcpc1688;1636377]Never been to Phillo, is DIA a workable site and any suggestions of where to stay, eat, monger?[/QUOTE]Yes, DIA is a good site for meeting both regular, semipro, and hardcore girls. For the rest, RTTF.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1636387]Yes, DIA is a good site for meeting both regular, semipro, and hardcore girls. For the rest, RTTF.[/QUOTE]WC,

As a seasoned SM here, I would like it handed to me on a silver platter please LOL. If you go to HK or Macau, I will be your tour guide. In the Philo, it seems your are the man but I will take suggestions from any respectable monger here. No disrespect intended to you WC.

PC out.

[QUOTE=Pcpc1688;1636392]WC,

As a seasoned SM here, I would like it handed to me on a silver platter please LOL. If you go to HK or Macau, I will be your tour guide. In the Philo, it seems your are the man but I will take suggestions from any respectable monger here. No disrespect intended to you WC.

PC out.[/QUOTE]You may learn your sea legs by working of Filipinas in HK on DIA, to get a feel. LOL.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1636358]

Lesson: buy a bloody iPhone.

[URL]http://www.bostonglobe.com/business/2014/10/22/online-shopping-yields-different-prices-results-says-northeastern-study/ZbSVnoBxPJtA8STeWbpQ9H/story.html[/URL]

AV.[/QUOTE]And set up an IP address at the home of an acquaintance who lives in the slums and use it for your travel shopping.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1636340]Anyone in Ermita now (10:30 am 24 Oct) may want stroll over to the Diamond Hotel. Cebu Pacific is holding open interviews for FAs and there are a couple hundred applicants there presently. Not as awesomely massive as the Qatar Airways one a few weeks ago. Still...[/QUOTE]Do you have a personal helicopter that you use to scan the metro area for long queues of attractive women?

[QUOTE=Pcpc1688;1636392]WC,

As a seasoned SM here, I would like it handed to me on a silver platter please LOL. If you go to HK or Macau, I will be your tour guide. In the Philo, it seems your are the man but I will take suggestions from any respectable monger here. No disrespect intended to you WC.

PC out.[/QUOTE]Copy. The where to stay, what to eat part is difficult to answer. Different areas and cities have different opportunities at different price levels. What do you consider an acceptable hotel? Acceptable food? Price level for chicas? Answer me in PM.

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1636476]Do you have a personal helicopter that you use to scan the metro area for long queues of attractive women?[/QUOTE]Would be useful... until I have to land the bugger. I have a divining rod.

Although not directly related to our search for inexpensive ED medications, I think there is a carryover effect from public policy in India that affects the survival of generic medicines from India. The other perverse aspect of this story is the role of a very large international NGO, Doctors Without Borders, working for something that unintentionally helps out us aging mongers:

[URL]http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/26721-big-pharma-lobbies-hard-to-end-india-s-distribution-of-affordable-generic-drugs[/URL]

I just watched a move on NetFlix called "Metro Manila. " Very realistic and illuminating, and shot onsite in Manila. Check it out.

RG.

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1637010]I just watched a move on NetFlix called "Metro Manila. " Very realistic and illuminating, and shot onsite in Manila. Check it out.

RG.[/QUOTE]Can't get Netflix here in Metro Manila to watch Metro Manila.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1637132]Can't get Netflix here in Metro Manila to watch Metro Manila.[/QUOTE]Not surprising. Very vew people there have internet fast enough for Netflix.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1636468]You may learn your sea legs by working of Filipinas in HK on DIA, to get a feel. LOL.[/QUOTE]Got my sea legs many moons ago LOL.

Any other suggestions though?

PC out.

[QUOTE=Pcpc1688;1636377]Hello all,

Never been to Phillo, <snip> any suggestions of where to stay, eat, monger?
[/QUOTE]Too broad. Skim through the forum posts for info keeping in mind your taste / budget / intended destination (Angeles, Manila, Cebu or other) then get back to us with more focused questions.

Regards.

AV.

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1636475]And set up an IP address at the home of an acquaintance who lives in the slums and use it for your travel shopping.[/QUOTE]The take home message from the study was: 1) use the worlds most expensive phone (iPhone) & 2) Be in an high socio economic zip code (or have an IP address originating from one). No, not slum address at all Skip!

AV.

[QUOTE=JpSlicky;1636101]Is there anyone that has a good safe reliable mail order Vitamin see and or V site?

I take off in about 2 weeks from now.[/QUOTE]Buy Viagra cheap on the street when you get here, its the real generic drug courtesy of Indian factory pharmacies. Or walk into a Watsons 'Drug Store' as Americans like to call it and buy over the counter. Mercury drug Stores can be a little pernicitky about asking for a script. Cialis has supply problems so is not available. YMMV.

AV.

For most of us who live here, the government has imposed a new requirement requiring long-staying foreigners to register their fingerprints with the BOI, and then to carry a new identity card, presumably with additional information embedded in the chip. My attorney, who handles all of our corporate as well as my personal affairs, arranged for me to meet a specific person at the Davao BOI and, though I more or less dreaded the experience, the whole thing was quite pleasant, took less than 30 minutes and was rather efficient. I think the deadline for compliance is sometime in mid-November.

GE.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1637437]Buy Viagra cheap on the street when you get here, its the real generic drug courtesy of Indian factory pharmacies. Or walk into a Watsons 'Drug Store' as Americans like to call it and buy over the counter. Mercury drug Stores can be a little pernicitky about asking for a script. Cialis has supply problems so is not available. YMMV.

AV.[/QUOTE]I ignore much of what my mother taught me, but "Don't put that in your mouth," still holds true for me in this case. The street V may be the real deal, and it may not be. Plenty of counterfeit goods make their way here. Hopefully the worst one gets is sawdust coloured blue and bonded with glue, but one could find something much more toxic. Is the possibility of poisoning oneself really worth it?

To the OP, there are dozens if not hundreds of posts in the forum that cover this in much detail.

This subject really ought to have a sticky. edit: And now it does - http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?3632-The-Viagra-Dialogue-Buying-medicine-for-your-cock&p=1637500#post1637500

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1637480]For most of us who live here, the government has imposed a new requirement requiring long-staying foreigners to register their fingerprints with the BOI, and then to carry a new identity card, presumably with additional information embedded in the chip. My attorney, who handles all of our corporate as well as my personal affairs, arranged for me to meet a specific person at the Davao BOI and, though I more or less dreaded the experience, the whole thing was quite pleasant, took less than 30 minutes and was rather efficient. I think the deadline for compliance is sometime in mid-November.

GE.[/QUOTE]Good post. Every visit I've made at the Makati BOI has been pleasant and efficient.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1637483]I ignore much of what my mother taught me, but "Don't put that in your mouth," still holds true for me in this case. The street V may be the real deal, and it may not be. Plenty of counterfeit goods make their way here. Hopefully the worst one gets is sawdust coloured blue and bonded with glue, but one could find something much more toxic. Is the possibility of poisoning oneself really worth it?

To the OP, there are dozens if not hundreds of posts in the forum that cover this in much detail.

This subject really ought to have a sticky. edit: And now it does - http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?3632-The-Viagra-Dialogue-Buying-medicine-for-your-cock&p=1637500#post1637500[/QUOTE]!myself & countless thousands of customers say it is the generic drug brought in from Indian factory pharmacies. It has always been the real deal over nearly 10 years in my experience.

Then there are the guys who don't buy it but insist its fake.

I'll let others be the judge on whose word to take.

Cheers mate.

AV.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1637480]For most of us who live here, the government has imposed a new requirement requiring long-staying foreigners to register their fingerprints with the BOI, and then to carry a new identity card, presumably with additional information embedded in the chip. My attorney, who handles all of our corporate as well as my personal affairs, arranged for me to meet a specific person at the Davao BOI and, though I more or less dreaded the experience, the whole thing was quite pleasant, took less than 30 minutes and was rather efficient. I think the deadline for compliance is sometime in mid-November.

GE.[/QUOTE]GE, Clark field office is efficient also. Not comfortable with this. I know it has been brought on by all the Mumbai & ROK overstsyers grossly abusing the system but it feels like a noose slowly tightening. Not a friendly feeling to be required to be fingerprinted. Its kind of laughable because they don't check the veracity of your info anyway.

AV.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1637480]For most of us who live here, the government has imposed a new requirement requiring long-staying foreigners to register their fingerprints with the BOI, and then to carry a new identity card, presumably with additional information embedded in the chip. My attorney, who handles all of our corporate as well as my personal affairs, arranged for me to meet a specific person at the Davao BOI and, though I more or less dreaded the experience, the whole thing was quite pleasant, took less than 30 minutes and was rather efficient. I think the deadline for compliance is sometime in mid-November.

GE.[/QUOTE]GE, Clark field office is efficient also. Not comfortable with this. I know it has been brought on by all the Mumbai & ROK over stayers grossly abusing the system but it feels like a noose slowly tightening. Not a friendly feeling to be required to be fingerprinted. Its kind of laughable because they don't check the veracity of your info anyway.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1637512]!myself & countless thousands of customers say it is the generic drug brought in from Indian factory pharmacies. It has always been the real deal over nearly 10 years in my experience.

Then there are the guys who don't buy it but insist its fake.

I'll let others be the judge on whose word to take.

Cheers mate.

AV.[/QUOTE]I look at this from the economics viewpoint. Why do black markets arise? Most commonly because things are very restricted / forbidden or they are priced prohibitively. Is sildenafil citrate difficult to obtain in the Philippines? No. Absolutely not. Even though a prescription is required I have never, ever have produced one. And this holds true for all types of pharmaceuticals here. So, is sildenafil expensive? A 50 MG tablet is less than p60 at Generics. I can be tight, sometimes Cheap Charlie tight, but even I will concede $1.50 isn't a bad value. So, if sildenafil is easy to obtain and cheap, what sustains the black market? I suspect it's ignorance or impulse or both.

Since most potential customers are from countries where drugs are more difficult to obtain these guys assume the rest of the world works that way. Human nature, I guess. I know it was a revelation to me when I found that chemists in many Asian countries didn't require a scrip at all - this was years ago, and things aren't so permissive anymore. Perhaps these sellers satisfy impulse buyers, guys who really don't need sildenafil back home but who are curious. The hawker in the street in AC or Burgos is more convenient than going to a pharmacy. Does this convenience cost less than $1.50 per 50 MG tablet? I don't know. How well one bazaar haggles may determine this. For me whatever savings I may find at less than $1.50 don't outweigh the risk. And since the pharmacy (many of them actually) is much closer to my condo than the hawker in the street I find it more convenient too.

One of the reasons I'm wary is because these Indian-made generics sold in the street are packaged in Viagra or Cialis boxes. Now, one thing I know is legit generics can't infringe on a trademark. The Indian-made sildenafil sold at Generics Pharmacy is branded Tigerfil. Somehow or another the black market boxes purportedly legit sidenafil in counterfeit packaging. Amazingly this packing is much nicer (convincingly nicer) than that of the legit sildenafil sold in bona fide chemists. Since the packagers of this fake "Viagra" are already involved in selling a product that is partially counterfeit, what's to stop them from taking the next step by putting counterfeit sildenafil in counterfeit boxes? This seems more likely when the target market is impulsive or ignorant. And often drunk. Good sellers know their buyers'... weaknesses. We all know that fake sildenafil exists, [URL]http://www.forbes.com/sites/melaniehaiken/2013/09/12/buying-viagra-online-its-very-likely-fake-and-possibly-dangerous-new-data-say/[/URL] .

I'm glad to hear the nameless, faceless thousands you know haven't been harmed. That's a good thing. Since all you need is merely that to assure you of the black-market sildenafil's legitimacy and efficacy I reckon we ought to eliminate the MHRA, FDA and other regulatory bodies. If one reads it on the Internet then that's all the guarantee one needs.

I agree a consumer ought to exercise good judgment when deciding whose word to take. The relevant regulatory officials, many of whom are doctors and scientists? Or some Juan in the street? Up to you.

Don't stop believing.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1637542]One of the reasons I'm wary is because these Indian-made generics sold in the street are packaged in Viagra or Cialis boxes. [/QUOTE]And if you look closely you find that they often have crude misspellings within the instruction sheets and even on the outside of the box. Even the manufacturer's name: "Eli Lily and Company. ".

[QUOTE=Amavida;1637434]The take home message from the study was: 1) use the worlds most expensive phone (iPhone) & 2) Be in an high socio economic zip code (or have an IP address originating from one). No, not slum address at all Skip! AV.[/QUOTE]I agree with your first takeaway. But following the article, living in a high socio-economic zip code is likely to get you directed to more expensive products. So that would be a takeaway for those who want to be led to high-end products. And for people who don't want to be led to high-end products, do you think that's the takeaway advice?

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1637680]I agree with your first takeaway. But following the article, living in a high socio-economic zip code is likely to get you directed to more expensive products. So that would be a takeaway for those who want to be led to high-end products. And for people who don't want to be led to high-end products, do you think that's the takeaway advice?[/QUOTE]Nope, I don't believe that's what the study was saying Skip. That's extrapolating to far.

AV.

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1637675]And if you look closely you find that they often have crude misspellings within the instruction sheets and even on the outside of the box. Even the manufacturer's name: "Eli Lily and Company. ".[/QUOTE]By all means use caution, yes. Over ten years I have found that the generic Viagra sold on the street is what it is claimed to be. Yes, the boxes are reproductions of the original manufacturer box. Cost of the genetics are roughly one fourth of the pharmacy sold product. I have purchased both from time to time.

My sample size is not that big, I don't nip down to the local hawker 3 times a week LOL!

YMMV.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1637516]GE, Clark field office is efficient also. Not comfortable with this. I know it has been brought on by all the Mumbai & ROK over stayers grossly abusing the system but it feels like a noose slowly tightening. Not a friendly feeling to be required to be fingerprinted. Its kind of laughable because they don't check the veracity of your info anyway.

AV.[/QUOTE]Doesn't make me entirely comfortable either AV, but I'm not going to get paranoid about it. I was fingerprinted using the old ink pad technology, when I applied for my first ACR about nine years ago, and again (electronically) the last time I renewed my driver's license. I'm not sure what, if anything, the government here does with the digitized information, but I'm guessing not much.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1637814]Doesn't make me entirely comfortable either AV, but I'm not going to get paranoid about it. I was fingerprinted using the old ink pad technology, when I applied for my first ACR about nine years ago, and again (electronically) the last time I renewed my driver's license. I'm not sure what, if anything, the government here does with the digitized information, but I'm guessing not much.

GE.[/QUOTE]Immigration has been fingerprinting long staying foreigners (>6 months) when they apply for their departure certificate. Why there is this departure certificate requirement I can't tell you. Taking someone's fingerprints a week prior to their departure doesn't seem to me the best way to thwart crime. It may aid in solving crimes, but if the criminal has already departed the country it's not an efficient system. Nowadays many countries capture a visitor's fingerprints upon their arrival immigration at the port of entry. I don't see how a government having this info can harm me; if they're going to frame me for something the might the state wields is so massive it can do so at anytime. The only things I'd worry about are a) hackers capturing my personal info from a gov't system or b) someone at the immigration office selling my info to telemarketers.

According to a news report there are approximately 1700 OFWs working in the three nations of West Africa hardest hit by the Ebola outbreak and an additional 100 Philippines peacekeepers in Liberia. What's alarming is that the government, in typical fashion, seems to have no plan to safeguard this country from potentially infected returnees. (I guess that is left in God's hands.) Given the state of the public health system and the general incompetence displayed by politicians and officials, this could indeed be a ticking time bomb!

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1637838]Immigration has been fingerprinting long staying foreigners (>6 months) when they apply for their departure certificate. Why there is this departure certificate requirement I can't tell you. Taking someone's fingerprints a week prior to their departure doesn't seem to me the best way to thwart crime. It may aid in solving crimes, but if the criminal has already departed the country it's not an efficient system. Nowadays many countries capture a visitor's fingerprints upon their arrival immigration at the port of entry. I don't see how a government having this info can harm me; if they're going to frame me for something the might the state wields is so massive it can do so at anytime. The only things I'd worry about are a) hackers capturing my personal info from a gov't system or b) someone at the immigration office selling my info to telemarketers.[/QUOTE]If they register us in a data base, it would be easier for them to bring things together. I was searching several threads yesterday looking for the discussion, if doctors have the duty of notification (but couldn't find it) . Just as an example, if a doctor would find a STD and he would report it, than this information goes into the same data base and you will have trouble next time you enter Philippines. Maybe they don't even let you in anymore. Just a thought.

Preferably with easy access to Manila. A flight+short drive etc. Neither needs to be the best, but would like to do both. Anyone else ever try to make this work? Not looking for a long trip or vacation, just a weekend getaway. I'd rather not take someone with me either.

[QUOTE=BambooPete;1637852]If they register us in a data base, it would be easier for them to bring things together. I was searching several threads yesterday looking for the discussion, if doctors have the duty of notification (but couldn't find it) . Just as an example, if a doctor would find a STD and he would report it, than this information goes into the same data base and you will have trouble next time you enter Philippines. Maybe they don't even let you in anymore. Just a thought.[/QUOTE]Call me a cynic but I doubt things would ever get so thorough in the Philippines. If there were a medical data exchange with immigration I fear this would cause many foreigners to forego treatment locally and seek it elsewhere. The end result of this delay would be more infections passed to locals, and I think this isn't a goal of the gov't. I wouldn't be opposed to a gov't barring entry to someone with an STD like HIV.

[QUOTE=Hummus;1638151]Preferably with easy access to Manila. A flight+short drive etc. Neither needs to be the best, but would like to do both. Anyone else ever try to make this work? Not looking for a long trip or vacation, just a weekend getaway. I'd rather not take someone with me either.[/QUOTE]La Union, Zambales and Baler are the closest places to Manila. Not too many p4 p FRs here about those places. Try a dating site.

[QUOTE=Hummus;1638151]Preferably with easy access to Manila. A flight+short drive etc. Neither needs to be the best, but would like to do both. Anyone else ever try to make this work? Not looking for a long trip or vacation, just a weekend getaway. I'd rather not take someone with me either.[/QUOTE]I guess you're looking at Surigao. Avid surfers can chime in with other places. Everywhere you go in the Phils there are girls floating about game for a root & cash, some places more plentiful than others. If you go to a place frequented by lots of foreigners you are less of a novelty.

AV.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1638210]Call me a cynic but I doubt things would ever get so thorough in the Philippines.[/QUOTE]I used to believe that but things are changing. Yes, it's still fubar in many ways but look back at your first experience of the Immigration office in Manila & compare it to today. Back in 2005 I remember standing a throng for two hours outside in the heat, finally getting to a crummy wooden counter behind which were filing cabinets stacked 10 high stretching back a kilometer (so it seemed). Now it all computers, air-conditioning & very short waits.

Yeah It would be great to keep the diseased out but where on earth has this ever been implemented successfully?

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1638226]I used to believe that but things are changing. Yes, it's still fubar in many ways but look back at your first experience of the Immigration office in Manila & compare it to today. Back in 2005 I remember standing a throng for two hours outside in the heat, finally getting to a crummy wooden counter behind which were filing cabinets stacked 10 high stretching back a kilometer (so it seemed). Now it all computers, air-conditioning & very short waits.

Yeah It would be great to keep the diseased out but where on earth has this ever been implemented successfully?

AV.[/QUOTE]At ports of entry it's easier to implement because there are far fewer of them, and under the cause of anti-terrorism some western countries have provided money and know-how round the world. Implementing something to all the thousands of hospitals and clinics nationwide is an all together different feat. It certainly can be done. Is there really a need? Banning the entry of a foreigner who at some point before tested positive for the clap does little if anything to advance public health when the borders are open to everyone else who aren't tested. It's pointless. Where on the earth has this been implemented? Nowhere. The only country that could do so would be North Korea.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1638232]It certainly can be done. Is there really a need? Banning the entry of a foreigner who at some point before tested positive for the clap does little if anything to advance public health when the borders are open to everyone else who aren't tested. It's pointless. Where on the earth has this been implemented? [/QUOTE]Ok, you convince me, this really wouldn't make sense. But what are they doing with the health data? Just for statistics? Do the doctors really have the duty of notification, and if yes, for which deseases?

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1638232]I fear this would cause many foreigners to forego treatment locally and seek it elsewhere [/QUOTE]Actually, I had 2 problems over the last 5 years and I did not go to doctor. As most spread STD in Philippines is chlamydia, I tried it with self medication (Zitromax) and fortunately it worked well.

Brings me to the question. Does anybody know a doctor in AC who would not report?

I know some guys are paying in various ways for their friends to attend College / University.

The data for passers for the Licensure Examination for Teachers (L. E. T.) given last August 17,2014 has just been announced. Graduate teachers must pass the L. E. T before they can get a license to teach.

[B]Results:[/B]

25,301 elementary teachers out of 70,786 examinees (35.74%) passed the Elementary exam.

26,767 secondary teachers out of 77,803 examinees (34.40%) passed the Secondary exam.

You can work out that there are large numbers of graduate teachers who cannot teach because they can't pass the LET.

I also have the data regarding which schools were most successful in garnering passers and which ones were abysmally poor. I will share that data on PM if anyone is worried about where their hard-earned is going.

Note this is for TEACHING only, and not for the incredibly over-subscribed Hotel & Restaurant Management programs.

So what's the upshot? Did you help someone pass? If so, congratulations. My score is one taker = one passer.

The license is required only for government schools. Non-exam takers and non-passers can still be hired by private institutions.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1638335]I know some guys are paying in various ways for their friends to attend College / University.

The data for passers for the Licensure Examination for Teachers (L. E. T.) given last August 17,2014 has just been announced. Graduate teachers must pass the L. E. T before they can get a license to teach.

[B]Results:[/B]

25,301 elementary teachers out of 70,786 examinees (35.74%) passed the Elementary exam.

26,767 secondary teachers out of 77,803 examinees (34.40%) passed the Secondary exam.

You can work out that there are large numbers of graduate teachers who cannot teach because they can't pass the LET.

I also have the data regarding which schools were most successful in garnering passers and which ones were abysmally poor. I will share that data on PM if anyone is worried about where their hard-earned is going.

Note this is for TEACHING only, and not for the incredibly over-subscribed Hotel & Restaurant Management programs.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Cbea20;1638374]So what's the upshot? Did you help someone pass? If so, congratulations. My score is one taker = one passer.
[/QUOTE]Purely for information only. I have no vested interest.

I get lots of PMs asking me about college passing rates and about quality of education here and there so this is merely adding to the data.

As Chea says, although private schools may offer quick and easy employment, most graduates of BEED and BSED still choose to undergo the difficult process of passing the LET and so getting hired in public schools, as being employed by the government means better job security, better benefits and around 30% better salary. A teacher who has not passed the LET is designated as an "Unlicensed Teacher" and most teachers are uncomfortable with this label.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1638232]..... It certainly can be done. Is there really a need? Banning the entry of a foreigner who at some point before tested positive for the clap does little if anything to advance public health when the borders are open to everyone else who aren't tested. It's pointless.....[/QUOTE]Ok, this convince me and you point makes sense. But why do they collect the health information, just for statistics? Do doctors really have the duty of notification for all STD, or just HIV?

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1638210]…… I fear this would cause many foreigners to forego treatment locally and seek it elsewhere……. [/QUOTE]Well, I had a problem once and I did not go to doctor. I tried self medication and as most STD in Philippines are chlamydia, I just took Zitromax and it worked. But I would rather know a doctor in AC who won't report. Does anybody know one in AC?

[QUOTE=BambooPete;1638461]Ok, this convince me and you point makes sense. But why do they collect the health information, just for statistics? Do doctors really have the duty of notification for all STD, or just HIV?

Well, I had a problem once and I did not go to doctor. I tried self medication and as most STD in Philippines are chlamydia, I just took Zitromax and it worked. But I would rather know a doctor in AC who won't report. Does anybody know one in AC?[/QUOTE]I'm not a health care worker so this is just a guess: if STI information is collected and aggregated (I don't know whether it is in the Philippines) it's likely done to give the gov't and health care workers an idea of what's happening, where the flare ups are, and where to devote personnel and scarce resources. Countries that are aid recipients, say from the UN or WHO or foreign governments, find that providing such info may further their application's chance to be awarded funds, and such info may even be required by donors.

Often with chlamydia a person may have gonorrhea too, and this STI can be asymptomatic. Moreover some STI's have become resistant to the primary medicine so another, more closely held one must be used. (Oh Christ, I hope I haven't re-ignited the boring safe-sex debate. There is the safe-sex thread - go there.) I've been to hospitals and clinics and when paying cash I've never been asked for an ID except when picking up test results from the lab (in a large hospital). You could give an assumed name, get tested, and then return to the doctor's office rather than the lab, and the nurse will get the lab results on your behalf. Just an idea. I think your concerns are overwrought; there's no STI squad rounding up the infected and processing them for deportation, though if a foreigner tested positive for HIV or Hep C I think the gov't may, and ought to, act.

[QUOTE=BambooPete;1638461]Ok, this convince me and you point makes sense. But why do they collect the health information, just for statistics?[/QUOTE]No.

[QUOTE=BambooPete;1638461]Do doctors really have the duty of notification for all STD, or just HIV?[/QUOTE]Yes.

[QUOTE=BambooPete;1638461]Well, I had a problem once and I did not go to doctor. I tried self medication and as most STD in Philippines are chlamydia, I just took Zitromax and it worked. But I would rather know a doctor in AC who won't report. Does anybody know one in AC?[/QUOTE]Good for you.

Its a third world country. They lots of departments & programs (Start reading about HAMIS) but of course shortage of funds hobbles progress / effectiveness.

AV.

[QUOTE=BambooPete;1638461]Ok, this convince me and you point makes sense. But why do they collect the health information, just for statistics? Do doctors really have the duty of notification for all STD, or just HIV?

Well, I had a problem once and I did not go to doctor. I tried self medication and as most STD in Philippines are chlamydia, I just took Zitromax and it worked. But I would rather know a doctor in AC who won't report. Does anybody know one in AC?[/QUOTE]There are many labs on Surla St. By MacArthur that do testing while you wait. You will be able to see their signs. STD Testing. Some offer treatment. Not sure if they do reporting. You can ask them.

Also Dr. Willie Lee in Malabanis behind Petron gas station is a good bet 0917 791 1588.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1638662]
Also Dr. Willie Lee in Malabanis behind Petron gas station is a good bet 0917 791 1588.[/QUOTE]Oh my God! I just hurt myself laughing so hard. Seriously? Going to a gas station for medical treatment? Ah, cheap charlies, the depths to which they sink is astonishing.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1638704]Oh my God! I just hurt myself laughing so hard. Seriously? Going to a gas station for medical treatment? Ah, cheap charlies, the depths to which they sink is astonishing.

AV.[/QUOTE]Don't neglect to get your drive shaft greased.

It should be noted that the preposition "behind" was used in his report. If the Petron station was used to be a landmark, and I believe it was, it's actually a very informative post. I don't know anything about Dr. Willie's competence. He may in fact do fine body work.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1638707]Don't neglect to get your drive shaft greased..[/QUOTE]Good place to get serviced? LOL! .

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1638704]Oh my God! I just hurt myself laughing so hard. Seriously? Going to a gas station for medical treatment? Ah, cheap charlies, the depths to which they sink is astonishing.

AV.[/QUOTE]Actually getting your willy fixed by Dr. Willie is even funnier! For the serious drips, Dr Lee is one man shop, appointments the same day and results less than one day for blood tests.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1638734]Actually getting your willy fixed by Dr. Willie is even funnier! For the serious drips, Dr Lee is one man shop.[/QUOTE]I know! Its too much right? LOL!

AV.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1638662]There are many labs on Surla St. By MacArthur that do testing while you wait. You will be able to see their signs. STD Testing. Some offer treatment. Not sure if they do reporting. You can ask them.

Also Dr. Willie Lee in Malabanis behind Petron gas station is a good bet 0917 791 1588.[/QUOTE]Thanks for the hints, even I hope I will never need them. I know both streets, easy to find.

I just had a week with the lovely Miss A.

My shape and size exactly. Tall and skinny. Compared with a broom handle, she would make the broom handle look positively chubby.

Earlier in the week, she was introduced to the taste of sperm, and she is now a committed swallower.

Later in the week, she discovered that she is really turned on when she is fucked while having a 7" vibrator inserted into her skinny ass.

Real progress towards nirvana.

G

[QUOTE=Gangles;1638890]I just had a week with the lovely Miss A.

My shape and size exactly. Tall and skinny. Compared with a broom handle, she would make the broom handle look positively chubby.

Earlier in the week, she was introduced to the taste of sperm, and she is now a committed swallower.

Later in the week, she discovered that she is really turned on when she is fucked while having a 7" vibrator inserted into her skinny ass.

Real progress towards nirvana.[/QUOTE]It's great when you can turn out a shy Filipina in less then a week!

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1638734]Actually getting your willy fixed by Dr. Willie is even funnier! [/QUOTE]I wonder if the good doctor's also involved in the insurance biz, the sign in the pic says it all. I was tempted to go in and ask if they really do insure "willy's", but I doubted that I would've been able to keep a straight face, LOL.

From the Philstar, to me reads like a fantasy land given the issues the country faces. Others have FR on the economy etc so while the article itself is more a positive spin / off piece for certain families IMHO the comments by the readers are fairly negative, some thinking it piece is very funny.

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/01/1386800/now-perfect-time-invest-phl[/URL]

[QUOTE=RadicalGuy;1637010]I just watched a move on NetFlix called ". " Very realistic and illuminating, and shot onsite in Manila. Check it out.

RG.[/QUOTE]+1 for your movie tip. I saw "Metro Manila" last night on Netflix and it was great. It is not a documentary. It is a very well done gritty drama about a peasant farming family forced to leave their land and trying to survive in Manila. The wife has to take a job in a bar and the husband gets a job driving an armored car for a security company. It kind of reminded me of "Amores Perros" another extremely well done film that takes place in gritty Mexico City. Two thumbs up for both films.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1639569]From the Philstar, to me reads like a fantasy land given the issues the country faces. Others have FR on the economy etc so while the article itself is more a positive spin / off piece for certain families IMHO the comments by the readers are fairly negative, some thinking it piece is very funny.

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/11/01/1386800/now-perfect-time-invest-phl[/URL][/QUOTE]All the Chinese forex flooding in post GFC has created an illusion of progress but beneath the surface its business as usual, unfortunately.

AV.

Nice article from Margarita Station about a politician. The one from Cebu currently in the main courts for alleged fraud etc with regards to buying land that was under water in Cebu. Wanting to make sure ONLY the westerners prove they are good and wholesome (as if we are not). No mention of a bill for the pinoys who are in many cases far worse. Which is why IMHO some girls prefer westerners to what their local boys offer, but that's just my view.

Made me chuckle especially the bit about Certificate of Moral Character LOL Where and who would give that. Maybe ask one of the cutie you are shagging LOL.

With the other things the politicians could do to help the ailing economy this representative is focused on really important maters. And her electorate in Cebu no doubt given the 2016 elections.

[URL]http://www.margaritastation.com/readfull.php?m=1578[/URL]

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1640247]Nice article from Margarita Station about a politician. The one from Cebu currently in the main courts for alleged fraud etc with regards to buying land that was under water in Cebu. Wanting to make sure ONLY the westerners prove they are good and wholesome (as if we are not). No mention of a bill for the pinoys who are in many cases far worse. Which is why IMHO some girls prefer westerners to what their local boys offer, but that's just my view.

Made me chuckle especially the bit about Certificate of Moral Character LOL Where and who would give that. Maybe ask one of the cutie you are shagging LOL.

With the other things the politicians could do to help the ailing economy this representative is focused on really important maters. And her electorate in Cebu no doubt given the 2016 elections.

[URL]http://www.margaritastation.com/readfull.php?m=1578[/URL][/QUOTE]Breath take hypocrisy like this is standard fare here. This bill is political grand standing. We can only hope it never passes. As I understand it your consular officials are going to have to come up with a certificate of character & z certificate of fiduciary capability. At present embassies in the Philippines do have to provide a 'Certificate of no impediment' which requires a foreigner to prove he / she is not married at time of application for marriage.

These additional requirements will be burdensome. My home country of Australia has already implemented massive increases in visa application costs for applicants wishing to bring in a Filipino spouse. Formerly about $1,600 now about $16,000 in Australian dollars. This is cutting out some men of lesser means but there is still a conga line of Ozzie fools lining up to pay this money for a woman they have never even met. I kid you not.

Longer term nonsense like this must adversely affect the marrying off of woman from poor families & consequently the inflow of remittance money which stands at billions currently.

Short sighted, how typical.

Where is the political opposition in all this? Not a word from them pointing out the blatant hypocrisy?
No, they are all the same. Just waiting their turn at plundering the nations wealth also.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1640538] As I understand it your consular officials are going to have to come up with a certificate of character & z certificate of fiduciary capability.[/QUOTE]Not sure what you mean by "your consular officials", I took it to mean it would apply to all of them.

[QUOTE]At present embassies in the Philippines do have to provide a 'Certificate of no impediment' which requires a foreigner to prove he / she is not married at time of application for marriage.
[/QUOTE]Other then the actual "Certificate of Good Moral Character" the bill is pretty much redundant for US citizens. Proof of financial capability to support your intended spouse is already required by the US as well as a full criminal background check; done by both the FBI (via the NCIC data base) and the man's state Crime Info Center (local data base).

Although Gwen did say "some of the foreigners" are "vagabonds or social and moral derelicts in their own country", she neglected to mention the thousands, or perhaps even the 10's of thousands, of Filipinas who are happily married to foreigners and how not only their lives, but their family's lives have benefitted from the union. As you have said here and others have said elsewhere, nothing more then political grandstanding. But even if the bill does pass, I doubt it will have any significant impact on the marriage process or truly prevent any abuse / exploitation of Pinays from occurring.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1640247] Wanting to make sure ONLY the westerners prove they are good and wholesome (as if we are not). No mention of a bill for the pinoys who are in many cases far worse. [/QUOTE]This bill looks like a blessing to me. "Sorry baby, I can't get the certificate. We'll have to keep things as they are. " The Philippines... where dreams keep coming true.

Will thwart those vagabonds who want to remain in the Philippines under a spouse visa.

If it becomes law I reckon a court will nullify it due to it being exclusively focused on Pinays.

[QUOTE==]“The exploitation of our Filipino women, through the so-called mail-order or pen-pal, Facebook, website-made and other Internet-made marriages, has not only caused untold miseries and suffering to our Filipino women but it has also brought dishonor and disgrace to Filipino womanhood,” she added.[/QUOTE]Sounds like sour grapes to me.

[QUOTE=RollAides;1640884]Sounds like sour grapes to me.[/QUOTE]It's high school. The younger, prettier girls orbited the older guys. Why? They could drive, often had some pocket money, had grown into their bodies, were the stars of the varsity sports teams, etc. In a patriarchal system the emphasis is on enhancing local (insider) male esteem. Wound someone's pride and he may react. I doubt many Filipino guys are thrilled by our presence here. And let's be honest, the loutish behaviour of many foreign males leaves a lot to be desired. I don't support this silly law, but I understand from where it arises.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1640898]It's high school. The younger, prettier girls orbited the older guys. Why? They could drive, often had some pocket money, had grown into their bodies, were the stars of the varsity sports teams, etc. In a patriarchal system the emphasis is on enhancing local (insider) male esteem. Wound someone's pride and he may react. I doubt many Filipino guys are thrilled by our presence here. And let's be honest, the loutish behaviour of many foreign males leaves a lot to be desired. I don't support this silly law, but I understand from where it arises.[/QUOTE]I was being silly. Still, I'm standing by that the quotee needs to be fucked. Hard, in the backdoor if possible. Dirty foreigners. Dirty, dirty, foreigners.

There's obviously some outside influence in the language and intent of the proposed statute. If any American guy is going to get in line and marry his online love of a lifetime, he'll want to take a look at the International Marriage Broker Registration Act (IMBRA). The proposed Filipino statue is like running the low hurdles compared to IMBRA. The woman proposing this legislation has obviously been misguided. On the other hand, maybe she's trying to misguide the well reasoned and enlightened voting public of the country.

There's obviously some outside influence in the language and intent of the proposed statute. If any American guy is going to get in line and marry his online love of a lifetime, he'll want to take a look at the International Marriage Broker Registration Act (IMBRA). The proposed Filipino statue is like running the low hurdles compared to IMBRA. The woman proposing this legislation has obviously been misguided. On the other hand, maybe she's trying to misguide the nation's well reasoned and enlightened voting public.

[QUOTE=RollAides;1640884]Sounds like sour grapes to me.[/QUOTE]Its boiler plate hypocrisy. Standard fare here. Playing to the home crowd. Can be cheerfully ignored.

AV.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1640597]Not sure what you mean by "your consular officials", I took it to mean it would apply to all of them.[/QUOTE]Non Philipine Consular officials.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1640597]Other then the actual "Certificate of Good Moral Character" the bill is pretty much redundant for US citizens. Proof of financial capability to support your intended spouse is already required by the US as well as a full criminal background check; done by both the FBI (via the NCIC data base) and the man's state Crime Info Center (local data base).[/QUOTE]Yanks do. Aussies for one don't. Aussies will be affected. Other sountries I am not familiar with but most less stringent than US.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1640597]I doubt it will have any significant impact on the marriage process or truly prevent any abuse / exploitation of Pinays from occurring.[/QUOTE]As above paragraph.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1641040]Its boiler plate hypocrisy. Standard fare here. Playing to the home crowd. Can be cheerfully ignored.

AV.[/QUOTE]Indeed, but if there's anyone who hates a 19 year old girl being fucked hard it's a 50 year old woman who hasn't gotten any in a decade.

Anyway, I was just trying to add a little holiday cheer to the proceedings. It's ber already!

Here in the Philippines, the only country where carbon paper is considered state-of-the-art, I had two memetic, but amusing experiences in the course of a single day that I thought might illuminate (if such is needed) how completely antediluvian are the management practices here:

1. Though my MetroBank account was opened in Davao, I now spend most of the workweek in Manila. Today, I needed to deposit Php50,000 cash in my account, for which I was charged a "service fee" of Php100. Why? "Well sir, you're not in Davao, so we have to charge you Php50 for using a Metro Manila branch. Also sir, you're depositing more than Php49,000 so there's an extra fee of Php50," as if now that she explained, it would all make perfect sense.

2. I have a post-paid Smart number, and my wife has a post-paid Globe number. Her contract is at an end, and so I wanted to switch her over to Smart, since I think it's (very) marginally better than Globe. I called my Smart representative and she was nice enough to send someone to my house who got all the paperwork done there, took a copy of my credit card, gave us a new sim and told us that the new number would be active in 24 hours. Now, 72 hours or so later, it's not active. Wondering why, I called the rep who, it turns out, is in Cotabato and can't be reached. Undeterred, I called Smart in Manila, only to be told there's nothing they can do and seemed surprised when I seemed surprised. So today, I got a text from the rep saying that he had no Internet in Cotabato and couldn't activate the sim from there, but would stop by the house tomorrow to collect a Php1,800 deposit. When I asked him (a) why, if he needed cash he didn't collect it 3 days ago when he was at my house and (b) why, since everything gets charged to a credit card of which he has a copy, he needs any cash at all? That was an hour ago and I'm still awaiting the response that will never come. Finally, I got an email from Globe today, telling me my request was being "processed" and the rep would contact me within the next 24 hours with "the results. " So, 3-4 different stories in one day, many of them conflicting, and none of them resulting in an activated sim.

I've no idea what's going to happen to this place in 2015, when, in theory, all of the ASEAN economies will become more integrated, and in theory, any company or citizen from one ASEAN country will be able to work / compete in any other ASEAN country. If this actually occurs, the Philippines will be largely out of business as Singaporean and Malaysian banks and telcos wipe out the local business overnight.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1641469]

I've no idea what's going to happen to this place in 2015, when, in theory, all of the ASEAN economies will become more integrated, and in theory, any company or citizen from one ASEAN country will be able to work / compete in any other ASEAN country. If this actually occurs, the Philippines will be largely out of business as Singaporean and Malaysian banks and telcos wipe out the local business overnight.

GE.[/QUOTE]Your story doesn't surprise but loved the carbon paper state of the art line!

I saw a chart of comparative GDP figures recently and was suprised (others may not be) to realise that the GDP's of both Hong Kong and its equally tiny competitor, Singapore, basically match the GDP of the Philippines. Should the ASEAN integration proceed, and I'm really not sure what the current status of that is, then the Philippines will indeed only go further and further behind.

P.S. English spellings apply above.

My assessment of the proposed integration is that it will mirror that of the European Union.

In my opinion, formed many years ago, the difficulty with this kind of proposal is that there is an underlying assumption that behaviors and motivations of all of the countries are similar.

The reality is that they are very dissimilar. And this is what has caused the problems with the EU with respect to economies.

Every sovereign nation state has an economic safety valve with respect to its economy, which is the devaluation, or revaluation of its currency.

It was the removal of this safety valve in the EU which created the economic problems that exist now.

Similarly, the same problem will come into being if the Asian countries opt for a common currency. For as long as they each have independent currencies, the problem should not manifest itself.

One possibility is that if a central control agency and central court is created, to develop and maintain rules for interaction and behavior, then this may begin to eradicate some, or much, of the corruption that exists in the Philippines. Then watch the economy take off and fly.

Wow.

For example, the highly corrupted land titling system will be forced to renew itself, and average people will then be able to leverage property to create wealth. Wow.

G

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1641475]Your story doesn't surprise but loved the carbon paper state of the art line!

I saw a chart of comparative GDP figures recently and was suprised (others may not be) to realise that the GDP's of both Hong Kong and its equally tiny competitor, Singapore, basically match the GDP of the Philippines. Should the ASEAN integration proceed, and I'm really not sure what the current status of that is, then the Philippines will indeed only go further and further behind.

P.S. English spellings apply above.[/QUOTE]

Does anybody know if foreigners can legally lease land in the Philippines?

If so, what are the limits and rules?

Happy mongering,

G

[QUOTE=Gangles;1641638]Does anybody know if foreigners can legally lease land in the Philippines?

If so, what are the limits and rules?

Happy mongering,

G[/QUOTE]Yes. Read this [URL]http://www.chanrobles.com/republicactno7652.htm#.VFuz6jTF9LC[/URL].

[QUOTE=Gangles;1641638]Does anybody know if foreigners can legally lease land in the Philippines?

If so, what are the limits and rules?

Happy mongering,

G[/QUOTE]So, yes, as shown by Hutsori, land can be leased by foreigners. No problem, right? Well, this is the Philippines, so there are Always Problems. A major one to consider is the archaic, corrupted, disorganized land title cesspool. How can one be sure that the leaser is the only one with title to the property? The general rule of thumb for businesses and land is that it can be yours until anyone better connected and more powerful, wants it. Welcome Alice, to Wonderland!

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1641469]Here in the Philippines, the only country where carbon paper is considered state-of-the-art, I had two memetic, but amusing experiences in the course of a single day that I thought might illuminate (if such is needed) how completely antediluvian are the management practices here:

1. Though my MetroBank account was opened in Davao, I now spend most of the workweek in Manila. Today, I needed to deposit Php50,000 cash in my account, for which I was charged a "service fee" of Php100. Why? "Well sir, you're not in Davao, so we have to charge you Php50 for using a Metro Manila branch. Also sir, you're depositing more than Php49,000 so there's an extra fee of Php50," as if now that she explained, it would all make perfect sense.

2. I have a post-paid Smart number, and my wife has a post-paid Globe number. Her contract is at an end, and so I wanted to switch her over to Smart, since I think it's (very) marginally better than Globe. I called my Smart representative and she was nice enough to send someone to my house who got all the paperwork done there, took a copy of my credit card, gave us a new sim and told us that the new number would be active in 24 hours. Now, 72 hours or so later, it's not active. Wondering why, I called the rep who, it turns out, is in Cotabato and can't be reached. Undeterred, I called Smart in Manila, only to be told there's nothing they can do and seemed surprised when I seemed surprised. So today, I got a text from the rep saying that he had no Internet in Cotabato and couldn't activate the sim from there, but would stop by the house tomorrow to collect a Php1,800 deposit. When I asked him (a) why, if he needed cash he didn't collect it 3 days ago when he was at my house and (b) why, since everything gets charged to a credit card of which he has a copy, he needs any cash at all? That was an hour ago and I'm still awaiting the response that will never come. Finally, I got an email from Globe today, telling me my request was being "processed" and the rep would contact me within the next 24 hours with "the results. " So, 3-4 different stories in one day, many of them conflicting, and none of them resulting in an activated sim.

I've no idea what's going to happen to this place in 2015, when, in theory, all of the ASEAN economies will become more integrated, and in theory, any company or citizen from one ASEAN country will be able to work / compete in any other ASEAN country. If this actually occurs, the Philippines will be largely out of business as Singaporean and Malaysian banks and telcos wipe out the local business overnight.

GE.[/QUOTE]Things are not much better in my home country with regards to Banks & Telco's but I feel your pain GE, know it well from personal experience. When you develop connections with the 'right people' in the Philippines its amazing how all these problems fade away. No more standing queues, no more frustrating catch 22 bureaucracy. Everything is so easy with a txt / email / call to insiders. Gaining access to the privileged class here is like living in a different country.

With regard to the ASEAN FTA's, many are enthusiastically optimistic and many business people see it as not likely until maybe 2020. Even then it is going to cause a lot of pain.

AV.

[QUOTE=Questor55;1641698]. . . <SNIP> . . . A major one to consider is the archaic, corrupted, disorganized land title cesspool. How can one be sure that the leaser is the only one with title to the property? The general rule of thumb for businesses and land is that it can be yours until anyone better connected and more powerful, wants it [/QUOTE]Questor raises the appropriate flag of caution.

My wife and I sought to buy several parcels of rice farming land in Nthn Luzon 3 or 4 years ago.

We were lucky to have a diligent and well-qualified lawyer.

Out of around 20 titles that we were "offered", probably 15 of them were "invalid", even though they were being held by the current owner.

What transpires is that people sell land to one another simply by exchanging money for the title but then do not take it to the Government Authority for proper endorsement and payment of the transfer fees etc. These fees seem quite low to me but for a subsistence farmer I guess they are too much to contemplate.

When I come along and want to transfer the land into our names (meaning my wife's), the current holder of the title is rarely the owner listed on the title and on the official register, and there are usually several years worth of unpaid and overdue land tax debts due for payment. These can run into the tens of thousands.

If you buy or lease ANY land, be sure to establish the bona fides of the title and be sure that it is free of encumbrances (meaning that all rates and taxes have been paid). Once you do that, then you can obtain quite useful property at a very competitive rate. We do the due diligence, and we exclude the titles that are "shonky".

Even when purchasing the condo that I currently own in Manila, we discovered that there were 2 years of back taxes owing to the local barangay (which was more than 100,000 php). We insisted the seller pay the outstanding fees before purchase could go through, Again, having good, diligent legal support who knows what to look for is essential.

On a side note and as Questor says, leasing (as a foreigner) gives you very little power. If a bigger and stronger filipino decides he or she wants your land, they will find numerous ways to take it from you.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1641822]When you develop connections with the 'right people' in the Philippines its amazing how all these problems fade away. No more standing queues, no more frustrating catch 22 bureaucracy. Everything is so easy with a txt / email / call to insiders. Gaining access to the privileged class here is like living in a different country.

AV.[/QUOTE]Right you are AV. I don't, as a rule go anywhere near any government office, as, over the years I've learned as you have, how to get things done reasonably easily. Today, for example, after I sent a text message to someone I know, my wife's new sim was miraculously activated in 30 minutes. Unfortunately, no connections in the world will save you from occassionally having to cope with Manila's unnavigable traffic.

GE.

[QUOTE=Gangles;1641635]Every sovereign nation state has an economic safety valve with respect to its economy, which is the devaluation, or revaluation of its currency.

It was the removal of this safety valve in the EU which created the economic problems that exist now[/QUOTE]I beg to differ.

If it was not for the EURO and the included removal of this "safety valve" most of the smaller economies of the EU would have been wiped out by the chain of economic and banking crises. Even the larger EU economies would have been too small to withstand the stress. Now it is a matter of "united we stand - like it or not". The larger EURO economies cannot dump the smaller ones anymore.

What we need is more central economic and monetary authority, not less. If Europe had a better auditing authority in place, Greece would have been found out cooking their books much earlier and the problems would have been less.

The USA is a perfect example: does each of the States have their own currency? Can they devaluate / revaluate their currency? Of course not! The idea is preposterous. Then why should European (and in the future, ASEAN) countries still be able to do that? Unless and until the step to a common currency is taken, there will never be a "common" economy and free movement of people, goods and services between the Member states will remain a dream.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1641909]Right you are AV. I don't, as a rule go anywhere near any government office, as, over the years I've learned as you have, how to get things done reasonably easily. Today, for example, after I sent a text message to someone I know, my wife's new sim was miraculously activated in 30 minutes. [/QUOTE]GE.

I am not sure why you had such a problem with your SIM as mentioned above and in a previous post.

My wife and I both obtained new postpaid SIMS from Globe just last week.

Both were activated by a customer assistant as we sat in the Globe office in Podium in Ortigas.

The whole exercise took less than 10 minutes from start to finish.

It was handled most efficiently because we made a personal appearance.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1641904]Questor raises the appropriate flag of caution.

My wife and I sought to buy several parcels of rice farming land in Nthn Luzon 3 or 4 years ago.

We were lucky to have a diligent and well-qualified lawyer.

Out of around 20 titles that we were "offered", probably 15 of them were "invalid", even though they were being held by the current owner.

What transpires is that people sell land to one another simply by exchanging money for the title but then do not take it to the Government Authority for proper endorsement and payment of the transfer fees etc. These fees seem quite low to me but for a subsistence farmer I guess they are too much to contemplate.

When I come along and want to transfer the land into our names (meaning my wife's), the current holder of the title is rarely the owner listed on the title and on the official register, and there are usually several years worth of unpaid and overdue land tax debts due for payment. These can run into the tens of thousands.

If you buy or lease ANY land, be sure to establish the bona fides of the title and be sure that it is free of encumbrances (meaning that all rates and taxes have been paid). Once you do that, then you can obtain quite useful property at a very competitive rate. We do the due diligence, and we exclude the titles that are "shonky".

Even when purchasing the condo that I currently own in Manila, we discovered that there were 2 years of back taxes owing to the local barangay (which was more than 100,000 php). We insisted the seller pay the outstanding fees before purchase could go through, Again, having good, diligent legal support who knows what to look for is essential.

On a side note and as Questor says, leasing (as a foreigner) gives you very little power. If a bigger and stronger filipino decides he or she wants your land, they will find numerous ways to take it from you.[/QUOTE]I might add that simply paying the due or over due land tax is enough to wrest control of the title from an owner. If you acquire land here via marriage make damn sure those dues are paid!

AV.

Thanks Hutsori. Very useful.

Reading the provisions and limitations would seem to preclude me from long term lease of land for the purpose of constructing a dwelling.

Too bad.

I am aware of the situation regarding land titling in the Philippines, and I have commented on this several times on this forum.

For several years I worked on a lant titling project in the Philippines. It was more than illuminating, I can tell you.

G

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1641664]Yes. Read this [URL]http://www.chanrobles.com/republicactno7652.htm#.VFuz6jTF9LC[/URL].[/QUOTE]

This is the first anniversary of Typhoon Yolanda, one of the most devastating storms of all time. Tacloban was the center of the surge that destroyed the city and caused several thousand deaths. Huge international relief effort and many hundreds of millions of dollars collected. The world's focus on this disaster filled the news for the next several weeks. So, today, what's the result of all this grief and worldwide attention? Almost All of the refugees are still in temporary dwellings or cobbled together shacks. Most incredibly, President Acquino has never visited Tacloban! Only in the Philippines.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1641955]GE.

I am not sure why you had such a problem with your SIM as mentioned above and in a previous post.

My wife and I both obtained new postpaid SIMS from Globe just last week.

Both were activated by a customer assistant as we sat in the Globe office in Podium in Ortigas.

The whole exercise took less than 10 minutes from start to finish.

It was handled most efficiently because we made a personal appearance.[/QUOTE]It can be a throw of the dice though. They can be courteous & efficient other times they can be infuriatingly vague & obstructive. No way to predict in advance. GE's experience is not unusual.

AV.

[QUOTE=Questor55;1642457]This is the first anniversary of Typhoon Yolanda, one of the most devastating storms of all time. Tacloban was the center of the surge that destroyed the city and caused several thousand deaths. Huge international relief effort and many hundreds of millions of dollars collected. The world's focus on this disaster filled the news for the next several weeks. So, today, what's the result of all this grief and worldwide attention? Almost All of the refugees are still in temporary dwellings or cobbled together shacks. Most incredibly, President Acquino has never visited Tacloban! Only in the Philippines.[/QUOTE]Wall Street Journal covers it comprehensively & much better than I could for those thirsting for pics:

[URL]http://online.wsj.com/articles/life-in-the-ruins-typhoon-ravaged-tacloban-still-awaits-aid-1415309402?mod=e2fb[/URL]

AV.

[QUOTE=Questor55;1642457]Most incredibly, President Acquino has never visited Tacloban! Only in the Philippines.[/QUOTE]Not fair.

Aquino said he has visited Tacloban too many times.

And then his defenders go 'Aceh took 5 years to get back to normalcy'.

Well, Aceh was totally wiped out, vs Tacloban, which had malls and all up and running in a month, so Vs Aceh the damage here was pretty low.

Then again, touch wood, hope not another typhoon will traverse the Tacloban / Leyte area or the apologists will blame the next typhoon.

Maybe it's planning to stretch recovery so there is something happening.

Imagine the trouble if Tacloban was fixed fast and no more typhoon comes. The rulers will have to face other problems.

I think some people need the WSJ password.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1642504]Wall Street Journal covers it comprehensively & much better than I could for those thirsting for pics:

[URL]http://online.wsj.com/articles/life-in-the-ruins-typhoon-ravaged-tacloban-still-awaits-aid-1415309402?mod=e2fb[/URL]

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Gangles;1642094]Thanks Hutsori. Very useful.

Reading the provisions and limitations would seem to preclude me from long term lease of land for the purpose of constructing a dwelling.

Too bad.

I am aware of the situation regarding land titling in the Philippines, and I have commented on this several times on this forum.

For several years I worked on a lant titling project in the Philippines. It was more than illuminating, I can tell you.

G[/QUOTE]In general, I would never make any significant investment in a third-world country like the Philippines. The laws on the books are only as strong as the ability to enforce your property rights, in court or through the government. Sure, you might get a valid title to land, or improvements to land, but if that title is ever questioned, what is your recourse? I'm a lawyer in the US, and if one has valid title to land, and someone encroaches on it, then courts will entertain a "suit to quiet title," and a judgment will be enforceable. The legal mechanisms in the Philippines are a joke. Better to invest your money in the US or some stable country, and simply pay rent in the Philippines as you go.

RG.

All in all I don't find much to whinge about in the Philippines. But golly, sometimes I'm driven to wit's end. Globe Telecom, I'm talking about you. I needed to call their office at Mall of Asia. A google doesn't find me the number. Visited Globe's websites. All the offices are listed with exact address, none with phone numbers. Globe's online chat isn't monitored. I call Globe's customer disservice number. They have no idea what the number is and no email address of a POC either. I'm told to email their customer service team. I do. I receive an automated reply with a link to form I must complete. I start the form and I'm required to provide information that isn't relevant and also other info I don't have; I'm not a globe customer, and it's now certain I will remain that way. This a communication company that can't communicate with its own offices. This is a telco that doesn't know its phone numbers. This is an information technology company without some of the most basic information. /rant

If anyone happens to be at MOA in the north building on the 2nd level could you walk in and ask them what their office telephone number is or some way of communicating to a worker in that exact office I'd really appreciate if you could PM me. Thank you.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1643760]All in all I don't find much to whinge about in the Philippines. But golly, sometimes I'm driven to wit's end. Globe Telecom, I'm talking about you. I needed to call their office at Mall of Asia. A google doesn't find me the number. Visited Globe's websites. All the offices are listed with exact address, none with phone numbers. Globe's online chat isn't monitored. I call Globe's customer disservice number. They have no idea what the number is and no email address of a POC either. I'm told to email their customer service team. I do. I receive an automated reply with a link to form I must complete. I start the form and I'm required to provide information that isn't relevant and also other info I don't have; I'm not a globe customer, and it's now certain I will remain that way. This a communication company that can't communicate with its own offices. This is a telco that doesn't know its phone numbers. This is an information technology company without some of the most basic information. /rant

If anyone happens to be at MOA in the north building on the 2nd level could you walk in and ask them what their office telephone number is or some way of communicating to a worker in that exact office I'd really appreciate if you could PM me. Thank you.[/QUOTE]I can sympathize. I've had a Globe post-paid account for years. About two years ago I switched to Smart and gave the sim on the old account to my wife. The contract for that card expires at the end of the month, and we decided to let it lapse and replace it with a post-paid Smart account. The new account at Smart took about 10 minutes to arrange, though it did take two days for the new number to start working. Ending the contract with Globe, or should I say letting Globe know I had no plan to renew the contract took an hour to get a phone number (I think it's *270 but I'm not sure) and then endless conversations with at least three people. I got so pissed off after about 3 minutes that I had to hand the phone to my wife, who is more tolerant of egregious stupidity than I.

In most legal systems with which I'm familiar, once a contract date has passed, and once all terms and conditions have been met, the contract is over. There's nothing left to do. That's not the case here, and evidently Globe has the right under what passes for a legal system here, just to keep on billing. I tried to inform Globe at one of its offices in Davao of my intention not to renew and was told that I must call Manila and speak to someone there.

It's a terrible company, poorly managed, lousy service and a total indifference to its customers. Smart isn't much better, but I know two people who work in the company and get better service. Plus, at least in Manila and Davao, I think that Smart's signal strength is slightly better.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1643896]
It's a terrible company, poorly managed, lousy service and a total indifference to its customers. Smart isn't much better, but I know two people who work in the company and get better service. Plus, at least in Manila and Davao, I think that Smart's signal strength is slightly better.GE.[/QUOTE]I don't know and did not bother to check but are all the phonecompanies in phils owned by the Ayala wing? If that's true they realy don't have to put forward an excellent customer service as people have to use their services anyhow? Am I close?
And who has build the infrasteucture(base stations, computericed terminals etc, phone lines etc etc???). In my country we have this big Telenor company(Dtac in Thailand, they buy themself into many other countries these days as well especially in Asian countries as it is a blooming market in most of them maby except phils as they are slacking behind big time in many ways), they own all infrasteucture and other companies have to rent from their infrasteucture, all the time the norwegian government owns 51% of the Telenor the other companies dont dare to put down the customer services as if they try they get threatned they will loose the access to the infrastructure.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1643925]I don't know and did not bother to check but are all the phonecompanies in phils owned by the Ayala wing? If that's true they realy don't have to put forward an excellent customer service as people have to use their services anyhow? Am I close?[/QUOTE]Globe is owned by Ayala and Singtel. The Singaporeans are still shaking their heads in disbelief. Smart is owned by PLDT, which also owns Sun. You know, in 2 years I've never met a person who has a Sun number.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1643925]And who has build the infrasteucture(base stations, computericed terminals etc, phone lines etc etc???)[/QUOTE]Tarsiers. And squirrels.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1643966]Globe is owned by Ayala and Singtel. The Singaporeans are still shaking their heads in disbelief. Smart is owned by PLDT, which also owns Sun. You know, in 2 years I've never met a person who has a Sun number.

Tarsiers. And squirrels.[/QUOTE]Actually, I pretty much use Sun exclusively, I have a smart as a backup and the GF has a smart and a globe. I get better signal in Bacolod on Sun than on anything else, she has to stand outside the apartment to talk on the Smart fairly often. I guess it's regional, who knows.

A few years ago I started out with an inexpensive cellphone using smart. It drove me crazy because I would always get a bad connection. Later on I brought over a used unlocked iPhone 4 that I bought for $100 and insert my SIM card. It was amazing how much clearer the calls were. For me it was not the carrier but the cellphone. Of course it doesn't help if the other person is using a crap phone either.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1644019]A few years ago I started out with an inexpensive cellphone using smart. It drove me crazy because I would always get a bad connection. Later on I brought over a used unlocked iPhone 4 that I bought for $100 and insert my SIM card. It was amazing how much clearer the calls were. For me it was not the carrier but the cellphone. Of course it doesn't help if the other person is using a crap phone either.[/QUOTE]True, the quality of the phones makes a difference. However I've got an iPhone 6 and that doesn't stop me from getting dropped calls, garbled transmissions, pitifully slow Internet speeds and generally poor service. I think that both major telecom groups--PLDT and Ayala--don't unvest in systems improvements because the ROI is simply not there. The fact is that most Filipinos do not subscribe to plans, and don't engage in voice calls. Most people here text, and texting doesn't require much in the way of state-of-the-art infrastructure. This, the percentage of the population that's affected by the lack of quality service is quite small.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1643896]I can sympathize. I've had a Globe post-paid account for years. About two years ago I switched to Smart and gave the sim on the old account to my wife. The contract for that card expires at the end of the month, and we decided to let it lapse and replace it with a post-paid Smart account. The new account at Smart took about 10 minutes to arrange, though it did take two days for the new number to start working. Ending the contract with Globe, or should I say letting Globe know I had no plan to renew the contract took an hour to get a phone number (I think it's *270 but I'm not sure) and then endless conversations with at least three people. I got so pissed off after about 3 minutes that I had to hand the phone to my wife, who is more tolerant of egregious stupidity than I.

In most legal systems with which I'm familiar, once a contract date has passed, and once all terms and conditions have been met, the contract is over. There's nothing left to do. That's not the case here, and evidently Globe has the right under what passes for a legal system here, just to keep on billing. I tried to inform Globe at one of its offices in Davao of my intention not to renew and was told that I must call Manila and speak to someone there.

It's a terrible company, poorly managed, lousy service and a total indifference to its customers. Smart isn't much better, but I know two people who work in the company and get better service. Plus, at least in Manila and Davao, I think that Smart's signal strength is slightly better.

GE.[/QUOTE]I know your pain & agree PI has its own "special" challenges (grin) but it's not much better in many other countries bro. My ex emailed again this week doing another massive whinge about being billed by her Aussie Telco (Virgin Mobile). It seems she had an iPhone 4 (yeah, how long ago was that!) on contract which expired _years_ ago, she has continued to be billed for it ever since. Don't sweat the small things, life is so very short. At least in the PI you can use your contacts, good luck doing that in a first world country. Sometimes corruption is a good thing (grin).

AV.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1643966]Globe is owned by Ayala and Singtel. The Singaporeans are still shaking their heads in disbelief. Smart is owned by PLDT, which also owns Sun. You know, in 2 years I've never met a person who has a Sun number.

Tarsiers. And squirrels.[/QUOTE]Sun was a small player that catered the truly desperate and nobody else. They were swallowed up by smart (PLDT) so their network is no different now but the brand has a hard time convincing Pinoys to accept it due to its legacy. In my experience around the PI, in any given location (barangay to barangay) it is literally a 50/50 bet which network (Globe / Smart) is best signal / QoS. Switching back and forth is a regular activity for me as I move around (sigh).

It appears to my untrained eye that Phillippine mobile phone cells, compared to first world mobile phone cells, are fewer & bigger judging by the huge towers spaced far apart.

In my experience even the lowliest Nokia handset is capable of good 2 G reception (voice / text) but there are a ton of crappy Chinese knockoffs around which have poor reception.

Genuine handsets are not your problem.

Less than ideal network infrastructure which is severely congested much like the road transport system is the problem.

AV.

[QUOTE=RollAides;1643998]Actually, I pretty much use Sun exclusively, [/QUOTE]Ahhhh, so you're their sole customer. Nice to meet you.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1644106]Sun was a small player that catered the truly desperate and nobody else.
[/QUOTE]Ah, er... Amavida... meet Roll Aides.

I looked at Sun's website and most of its low- and mid-tier promotions allow a Sun customer, and we all know who that is now, to text another Sun customer. Only. Heavens! What good is that?

If PLDT is going to knee-cap Sun it might as well have Smart absorb the whole kit and caboodle, end the Sun brand, and shift the money they pay horsey-faced "brand ambassador" Solenn Heusaff to fix some equipment. But... I reckon someone at Sun (or PLDT) is banging Ms. Heusaff. Roll Aides????

[QUOTE=Amavida;1644106]Sun was a small player that catered the truly desperate and nobody else. They were swallowed up by smart (PLDT) so their network is no different now but the brand has a hard time convincing Pinoys to accept it due to its legacy. In my experience around the PI, in any given location (barangay to barangay) it is literally a 50/50 bet which network (Globe / Smart) is best signal / QoS. Switching back and forth is a regular activity for me as I move around (sigh).



AV.[/QUOTE]You are lucky to be able to complain about actually having a choice of providers.

In China theres China Mobile and China Unicom. They are both owned by China Telecom.

Soon there will be another telecom company " allowing consumers a greater choice " .

This third company will ALSO be owned by China Telecom.

" I thought I was poor as I had no shoes. Then I met a man with no feet".

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1644031]True, the quality of the phones makes a difference. However I've got an iPhone 6 and that doesn't stop me from getting dropped calls, garbled transmissions, pitifully slow Internet speeds and generally poor service. I think that both major telecom groups--PLDT and Ayala--don't unvest in systems improvements because the ROI is simply not there. The fact is that most Filipinos do not subscribe to plans, and don't engage in voice calls. Most people here text, and texting doesn't require much in the way of state-of-the-art infrastructure. This, the percentage of the population that's affected by the lack of quality service is quite small.

GE.[/QUOTE]The point about texting is certainly true. Calling from my mobile in the Manila to another mobile in Manila the calls drop several times. Using my very same mobile I call my parents' mobiles on the other side of the planet and the quality is very good. And don't get me started about calling a PLDT land line. It takes much less time to physically go the location and speak face-to-face to the person.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1644106]It appears to my untrained eye that Phillippine mobile phone cells, compared to first world mobile phone cells, are fewer & bigger judging by the huge towers spaced far apart.
[/QUOTE]Rent has to be paid to the building owners to allow those towers to be installed. I don't know whether Manila has a height restriction for them, but if one exists I reckon a few pesos in the right hands takes care of that annoyance.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1644127]If PLDT is going to knee-cap Sun it might as well have Smart absorb the whole kit and caboodle, end the Sun brand, and shift the money they pay horsey-faced "brand ambassador" Solenn Heusaff to fix some equipment. But... I reckon someone at Sun (or PLDT) is banging Ms. Heusaff. Roll Aides????[/QUOTE]Ssshhhhhhh Hutsori. . .

[QUOTE=RollAides;1644134]Ssshhhhhhh Hutsori. . .[/QUOTE]Jammy bastard ;)

If you want to be happy for the rest of your life,
Never make a big-breasted woman your wife.
So from my personal point of view,
Get a small-breasted girl to marry you.

[URL]http://qz.com/295370/how-alibaba-is-using-bra-sizes-to-predict-online-shopping-habits/[/URL]

With all due respect DC, I hope you put away a lot for retirement.

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1644376]If you want to be happy for the rest of your life,
Never make a big-breasted woman your wife.
So from my personal point of view,
Get a small-breasted girl to marry you.[/QUOTE]That's funny Skip. . Sorry, I'll just have to repost this pic.

[QUOTE=SkipKost;1644376]If you want to be happy for the rest of your life,
Never make a big-breasted woman your wife.
So from my personal point of view,
Get a small-breasted girl to marry you.

[URL]http://qz.com/295370/how-alibaba-is-using-bra-sizes-to-predict-online-shopping-habits/[/URL]

With all due respect DC, I hope you put away a lot for retirement.[/QUOTE]Small breasts with perky nipples that become bullets when stimulated is my first choice, Skip.

[QUOTE=Questor55;1644993]Small breasts with perky nipples that become bullets when stimulated is my first choice, Skip.[/QUOTE]I don't know what you're talking about.

One thing I'll probably never get used to is the willingness of filipinas to go bareback. WTF! In any other countries, the girls will be yelling condom, but not in Phills. May have something to do with their religion?

Spaceman.

[QUOTE=AlLostInSpace13;1645586]One thing I'll probably never get used to is the willingness of filipinas to go bareback. WTF! In any other countries, the girls will be yelling condom, but not in Phills. May have something to do with their religion?

Spaceman.[/QUOTE]This was discussed and explained a few tines.

More than religion, as traditional belief says using condom means the Girl is DirTY.

Good girls aren't dirty and good girls are clean.

Go figure that out! LOL.

And adding to the belief pregnancy is Gods Gift or the guy was strong.

After all church adds oil to the fire saying contraceptives are murdering tools.

Don't fret over it, says me.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1645648]This was discussed and explained a few tines.

More than religion, as traditional belief says using condom means the Girl is DirTY.

[/QUOTE]I've only been asked once. I just said I'm clean. "OK, just withdraw." Chocha Monger had more to say about it. Sorry, I don't know how to link to the post.

[QUOTE=ChochaMonger;1587444]it is true that filipinas hate condoms and love raw nasty sex. guys who arrive in the philippines with sincere intentions to use condoms in each and every sexual encounter eventually find their resolve weakened if not crushed. filipinas will beg, whine and plead for some good old fashioned raw sausage complete with an injection of cream filling. foreigners are perplexed by this seemingly blas attitude filipinas have to being impregnated by complete strangers during casual sexual encounters. unlike western women who choose their impregnator based on his ability to pay a sizeable amount of child support for two decades, filipinas choose the father of their children based on genetics. desirable traits like intelligence, a long snout, eye color, height, a huge penis, etc. can result in filipina begging for your sperms.

"give me baby" is a request heard regularly by foreigners visiting or residing in the philippines. many guys acquiesce and add their genes to the philippine gene pool siring a number of offspring. filipinas are happy to be knocked up by foreigners even when financial support is not forthcoming. the craving for sperm diversity may confound the casual observer but a closer look at local communities provides some understanding of this phenomenon. a visitor to a typical provincial village would soon discover that most of the residents are related to each other. filipino men not wishing to shag their cousins must often visit other villages to find girlfriends or wives. **** is a common problem in the provinces. this may be part of the reason why filipinas prize impregnation by a foreigner. it brings fresh genes into the community and possibly discourages **** ambitions from relatives.

iuds may be an effective form of contraception but filipinas look on any form of contraception with deep suspicion. so, good luck trying to get them to go to a doctor and have some medieval looking hardware installed in their snatch. the religious zealots have done a good job of convincing women that contraception will harm their health and render them permanently barren. as for condoms, you would not have a problem using them to root bar girls but expect them to complain that it hurts their pussy and they don't fancy them. girlfriends are a different matter. they expect you to ride them bareback and cum in their snatch, to do otherwise would be considered an insult and any feelings of affection you express to them will be considered insincere. all you can do is be open to breeding them if you want to keep that loving feeling. you can try to fool them with a vasectomy but after a year or two of frequent sex the girls will start thinking that your dick is too weak to knock them up and they will get a man with intact stones to breed them on the side.

what about stds? if you're riding dirty with multiple sex partners you will catch them eventually. you can't ride the lighting and remain unrep001hed. i know mongers who caught their first dose of gonorrhea on their very first trip to the philippines from the very first girl they screwed and went home with a dick dripping custard as a souvenir. others have a dirty dick but they're asymptomatic and don't even know they're carrying diseases and spreading them around. then there are the lucky ones who haven't run into some sick pussy yet. in the end you pay your money and take your chances. filipinas have some cute euphemisms for stds though, i remember one saying, "my boyfriend gave me fever in my poosay. "[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Sam14;1645760]I've only been asked once. I just said I'm clean. "OK, just withdraw." Chocha Monger had more to say about it. Sorry, I don't know how to link to the post.[/QUOTE]Ah. Withdraw.

Sometimes, the girl changes mind half way and doesn't want you to withdraw, and hugging you with a vice like grip, will whisper "I feel safe this time, shoot inside babe. I want feeling ".

How can we refuse that kind of request?? LOL.

In fact, I have insulted enough 'Good Girls' by asking them if we can use condom, with the standard reply being, "I am not a prosti. " and now I am wiser, and ask casually if that is a safe time. Most of my pickups are non-bar girls (though my hit rate is pretty low, I have to admit.).

Well, maybe bare back is the main attraction for many men to head to PH, though few will admit to it.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1645936]Well, maybe bare back is the main attraction for many men to head to PH, though few will admit to it.[/QUOTE]I will readily admit that I hate HATE using condoms. If I have any doubts about a girl's health or cleanliness, I won't touch her, condom or no condom. I had a vasectomy, so I don't worry about pregnancy, though I don't usually tell the girl unless she's worried about it. In fact, many girls would be turned off at the thought that a man isn't fertile.

RG.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1645648]Good girls aren't dirty and good girls are clean.

Go figure that out! LOL.

And adding to the belief pregnancy is Gods Gift or the guy was strong.

After all church adds oil to the fire saying contraceptives are murdering tools..[/QUOTE]Exactly. We westerners are used to Catholics who only follow the Catholic edicts that fit their modern lifestyle.

Catholicism there is deeply ingrained. Also sex education is zero. In the past when I brought up the topic of ovulation cycle and the short monthly window of female fertility I might have well have been explaining the Krebs cycle.

To them sex with a condom isn't 'serious' and you are avoiding the natural consequences of the special gift they are giving you. I have had many girls there get angry if I pulled out. They feel its disrespectful. Its like I am going to give you sex you have to deal with all the consequences.

In the past few years I have changed my tune and approach. I shoot it deep with reckless abandon and say don't worry if any thing happens I will take care of you. With a Pinay that's the most powerful aphrodisiac in the known universe.

Easy for me to say since the vasectomy.

You had me worried there for a minute. Until the punchline came.

[QUOTE=Pantot;1646247]SNIP

Easy for me to say since the vasectomy.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Pantot;1646247]Exactly. We westerners are used to Catholics who only follow the Catholic edicts that fit their modern lifestyle.

Catholicism there is deeply ingrained. Also sex education is zero. In the past when I brought up the topic of ovulation cycle and the short monthly window of female fertility I might have well have been explaining the Krebs cycle.[/QUOTE]Talking about ovulation cycles is like talking about rocket science with them! Most of them don't even know when they are supposed to get their periods.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1646587]Talking about ovulation cycles is like talking about rocket science with them! Most of them don't even know when they are supposed to get their periods.[/QUOTE]Hmm, you guys are bad.

Doesn't the church insist the 'natural' cycle method is good enough?

And almost all the pinays I met knew the meaning of "Safe Time" !

Or is it that my exposure is limited?

[QUOTE=Pinaypounder;1646948]EASILY the dumbest country in the world. Why would you possibly kick out Foreigners? A Foreign person adds to the GDP every day spending money, buying goods, renting hotel rooms fucking girls for money.

The Fils is a sad sad place because of the fucktards in government, the people there simply do not have a chance to get ahead.

Easily the stupidest place in the world.

PP.[/QUOTE]Why are they "the dumbest country in the world"? For enforcing their laws (their immigration laws in this particular case)? For offering a reward to those who report law breakers? How are they any different from any other country in that respect? Granted, there's many problems the Phils, especially when in comes to the law and legal issues, but please, clue me in as to why you stated what you did?

Note: Moved from the Cebu thread as it pertains to the PI's in general it's more appropriate here.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1646669]Hmm, you guys are bad.[/QUOTE]Thanks, I'll take that as a compliment, LOL.

[QUOTE]Doesn't the church insist the 'natural' cycle method is good enough?
And almost all the pinays I met knew the meaning of "Safe Time" !
Or is it that my exposure is limited?[/QUOTE]Ask them what they mean by "Safe Time" and the response you'll most likely get is either: "No Blood" (meaning not on their period for those unfamiliar with the term I used) or "No Infections / Diseases".

Since Skogi and a few others here seem to draw from a different and probably better educated social group then the rest of us, then perhaps their girls are more likely to know about and even calculate / track their ovulation cycles.

[QUOTE=Pinaypounder;1646948]EASILY the dumbest country in the world. Why would you possibly kick out Foreigners? A Foreign person adds to the GDP every day spending money, buying goods, renting hotel rooms fucking girls for money.
[/QUOTE]Just to add further to PJ's post # 8516.

Rather interestingly, data from the Department of Tourism (heard in a presentation at a seminar 2 months ago), reveals that domestic tourism in the country is the lifeblood of most local establishments. 26 million Filipinos 15 years old and over traveled within the country during the period April to September 2012 (no data for 2013 yet). This is about 40 percent of 63 million Filipinos aged 15 years old and over. They spent an average of 1,800 php / day, but it may be more since many of these domestic tourists stay with family or friends and so are not counted in hotel spending.

By contrast, the international visitor number has never yet exceeded 5 million per year. International visitors spend on average 4000 php per day. Tourism accounts for around 6% of the Philippines economy only.

While it is clear that the GoP wants more than 5M international tourists each year, their targets are NOT sex tourists (as I discovered in private conversation with the presenter, a male person).

There is an incredible number of illegal aliens living (and working) in the Philippines. I reported here some time ago that a sweep of persons without valid visas who were working in Northern Luzon resulted in more than 100 persons (primarily from South Asia) being rounded up in ONE DAY and in ONE CITY alone. A South Korean national living in my condo block was deported late last year for living in Manila and running his own business for the past 6 years without any form of visa. Of course he did not pay any tax. He was reported by a competitor who was following all the Phils laws and disliked losing out to an illegal operator. Makes sense to me.

The GoP is serious about sorting out these illegal stayers. The spirit of the new regulation is NOT to target the few people who stay a few days over their tourist visas; they are after the thousands of illegal aliens who are living and working here for months (even years), as well as the large number of people on "student visas" who are working illegally in the country.

Having chosen to live here for the past 18 years, I absolutely reject the notion that this should be called a "dumb country" simply because it implements its immigration laws. Expelling illegal aliens is not damaging to any country's economy.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1647008]Thanks, I'll take that as a compliment, LOL.

Ask them what they mean by "Safe Time" and the response you'll most likely get is either: "No Blood" (meaning not on their period for those unfamiliar with the term I used) or "No Infections / Diseases".

Since Skogi and a few others here seem to draw from a different and probably better educated social group then the rest of us, then perhaps their girls are more likely to know about and even calculate / track their ovulation cycles.[/QUOTE]Well most of my encounters have been with educated girls, including nurses and such.

Still, more than education, there was nearly zero fear of pregnancy or getting any STI.

Pleasure comes first, and that's one reason I find pinays unbeatable. In GFE.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1647006]Why are they "the dumbest country in the world"? For enforcing their laws (their immigration laws in this particular case)? For offering a reward to those who report law breakers? How are they any different from any other country in that respect? Granted, there's many problems the Phils, especially when in comes to the law and legal issues, but please, clue me in as to why you stated what you did?

Note: Moved from the Cebu thread as it pertains to the PI's in general it's more appropriate here.[/QUOTE]Ah, dumbest? Why?

After all, foreigners don't vote right?

And foreigners are not making the rich to ultra rich.

It is the naïve locals who get star struck and vote in crooks and all.

Saw this write up on a blog about PH.

And more than God they love celebrities in the Philippines.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1647032]While it is clear that the GoP wants more than 5M international tourists each year, their targets are NOT sex tourists (as I discovered in private conversation with the presenter, a male person). And more than God they love celebrities in the Philippines[/QUOTE]Sex tourists are the favourite punching bags of politicos to divert attention, though 9 out of 10 sex tourists knows Philippines is in the bottom of their must-visit list.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1647032]There is an incredible number of illegal aliens living (and working) in the Philippines. I reported here some time ago that a sweep of persons without valid visas who were working in Northern Luzon resulted in more than 100 persons (primarily from South Asia) being rounded up in ONE DAY and in ONE CITY alone. A South Korean national living in my condo block was deported late last year for living in Manila and running his own business for the past 6 years without any form of visa. Of course he did not pay any tax. He was reported by a competitor who was following all the Phils laws and disliked losing out to an illegal operator. Makes sense to me.[/QUOTE]Then again, how many Filipinos are living illegally overseas? LOL.

Malaysia alone is harbouring more than 100,000 .

[QUOTE]Having chosen to live here for the past 18 years, I absolutely reject the notion that this should be called a "dumb country" simply because it implements its immigration laws. Expelling illegal aliens is not damaging to any country's economy.[/QUOTE]Dumb? No.

Diverting attention? Yes, and elections are nearing.

Like the law proposed to enforce strict rules on foreigners marrying locals, implying millions of women are left destitute by evil foreigner. It looks bad for foreigners, but for locals, it wins votes and makes the likes of The senator with 22 illegal wives look like a saint!

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1647032]Just to add further to PJ's post # 8516.

I reported here some time ago that a sweep of persons without valid visas who were working in Northern Luzon resulted in more than 100 persons (primarily from South Asia) being rounded up in ONE DAY and in ONE CITY alone. A South Korean national living in my condo block was deported late last year for living in Manila and running his own business for the past 6 years without any form of visa. Of course he did not pay any tax. He was reported by a competitor who was following all the Phils laws and disliked losing out to an illegal operator. Makes sense to me.

The GoP is serious about sorting out these illegal stayers. The spirit of the new regulation is NOT to target the few people who stay a few days over their tourist visas; they are after the thousands of illegal aliens who are living and working here for months (even years), as well as the large number of people on "student visas" who are working illegally in the country.

Expelling illegal aliens is not damaging to any country's economy.[/QUOTE]Only 100 RK? Try the Middle East. Each country has an amnesty most years to try and remove the illegals. In Saudi there were queues to get the documents and many were from the Indian sub continent and Philippines. They do work the locals won't do and deem beneath them. This number is estimated at millions over the years and is seems a good policy by many except the locals who need them in the country to do those jobs they don't want to do. Odd logic LOL.

The issue in the Philippines are the rising number of Chinese and South Korean who do business illegally as RK said. In my condo there were some South Koreans and they had all the windows blacked out, never used any service from the condo management etc. And once I saw (when the door was slightly ajar and am a nosey person) lots of PCs etc. Clearly doing something.

Later they disappeared. Seems the condo management popped in one day using their key and figured it out. So make senses as people want to work with a level playing field.

Yes the Filipinos are star struck and vote for some stupid people who take advantage of the system (aka pork barrel etc. All in the news) and may vote in as President someone currently alleged to be corrupt but that also happens elsewhere. For me that is just sad and unfortunate as the country has a lot to offer (and I do not mean just for a monger!

The politician who proposed the foreigner law is just appealing to the masses as she is up for election and also been charged with plunder or something and maybe needs to be reelected to try and divert attention.

What I find bad here is that politicians charged with plunder etc do not stand down as they would in many other countries. But imposing out values on other countries generally leads to issues (eg Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya to name a few) and we become disappointed in the end. However as some one said to me recently (and was mentioned in an OpEd of one of the broadsheets) that if they did that there would so few people left to run the country it would be effectively ungovernable and / or grind to halt completely LOL.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1647040]Sex tourists are the favourite punching bags of politicos to divert attention, though 9 out of 10 sex tourists knows Philippines is in the bottom of their must-visit list.

[/QUOTE]You inserted "And more than God they love celebrities in the Philippines" into my quote ET and I certainly did NOT say that.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1647087]
The issue in the Philippines are the rising number of Chinese and South Korean who do business illegally as RK said. In my condo there were some South Koreans and they had all the windows blacked out, never used any service from the condo management etc. And once I saw (when the door was slightly ajar and am a nosey person) lots of PCs etc. Clearly doing something.

Later they disappeared. Seems the condo management popped in one day using their key and figured it out. So make senses as people want to work with a level playing field.
[/QUOTE]I had some PRC Chinese neighbours in my condo who were running a board-plan restaurant in their condo. I don't think they lived there because it was all tables in there. At night the number of cockroaches emerging from under their door was shocking; the door itself looked like it shimmering with all the cockroaches on it. I'd grab my can of spay and give everything a good blast. The carnage night after night... thank God I'm not a Parsee. After a while they were gone. I assume they followed their Chinese owners to the next location.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1647204]You inserted "And more than God they love celebrities in the Philippines" into my quote ET and I certainly did NOT say that.[/QUOTE]Sorry. I didn't quote you. In case it got lost in translation!

A Filipino friend of mine here in Australia needs to send $30,000 to the Philippines to buy a house.

Does anyone know how this amount can be transferred easily, quickly, low fees, and good exchange rate?

Happy mongering.

G

Not sex related but hope some good souls could shed light on the matter. Cargo sent via sea freight from Dubai to manila in Oct is said going to be cleared 'probably' by February or later, WTF is going on in Manila? The cargo office here is only saying delays in manila due congestion. Any sensible information appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Snow

[QUOTE=Gangles;1648603]A Filipino friend of mine here in Australia needs to send $30,000 to the Philippines to buy a house.

Does anyone know how this amount can be transferred easily, quickly, low fees, and good exchange rate?

Happy mongering.

G[/QUOTE]Wire transfer; any bank; usually a set fee (ie: most US banks charge between 15-25 USD); the fee can sometimes vary depending on your relationship with the bank (ie: account balance). For any amount over 10 K some additional paperwork will be needed, the forms will be provided by the bank. Check with HSBC, they're usually very competitive with their fees.

G, you don't mention if your friend is transferring direct to the builder or to a family member. If to the builder then they may have an AUS or USD account, so let them worry about the actual exchange rate. Your friend can get a set quote from them for the down payment (spot rate for prior business day less 1% is most common) and then transfer that exact amount to their account. If to a family member then he'll have to ask for the rates from his local banks in AUS.

Usually the best way is to transfer base currency (in his case $ {you didn't say if AUS or USD}) to a family member's AUS / USD account in the Phils, then exchange for Peso's at time of withdrawal. In my experiences with sending deposits for condo's I've rented, the PI banks typically gave me from 0.5 to 4.5% better exchange rate then the US, German, Swiss or Crete banks I have accounts in.

[QUOTE=Snow1998;1648949]Not sex related but hope some good souls could shed light on the matter. Cargo sent via sea freight from Dubai to manila in Oct is said going to be cleared 'probably' by February or later, WTF is going on in Manila? The cargo office here is only saying delays in manila due congestion. Any sensible information appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Snow[/QUOTE]Short answer: there is HUGE problem at both Manila ports. Ships are waiting weeks and even months to get a berth. Too many ships trying to dock at a port that doesn't have the capacity. And of course mismanagement and corruption. Manila Bay has become a parking lot. If you google "Manila port congestion" you'll find all the news reports of it as well as the finger pointing.

[QUOTE=Snow1998;1648949]Not sex related but hope some good souls could shed light on the matter. Cargo sent via sea freight from Dubai to manila in Oct is said going to be cleared 'probably' by February or later, WTF is going on in Manila? The cargo office here is only saying delays in manila due congestion. Any sensible information appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Snow[/QUOTE]Adding on to what Hutsori said. Manila port has been building a decent backlog thanks to Estrada's Truck ban policy!

Hang on there. In Philippines, if you need anything urgently you should know, you have to hurry up and wait!

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1648974]G, you don't mention if your friend is transferring direct to the builder or to a family member. If to the buildazer then they may have an AUS or USD account, so let them worry about the actual exchange rate. Your friend can get a set quote from them for the down payment (spot rate for prior business day less 1% is most common) and then transfer that exact amount to their account. If to a family member then he'll have to ask for the rates from his local banks in AUS.[/QUOTE]Knowing Philippines, most likely the developer will want the money to be remitted directly as cash!

Like, all 30,000 $ as pesos in cash!

Just saying.

[QUOTE=Gangles;1648603]A Filipino friend of mine here in Australia needs to send $30,000 to the Philippines to buy a house.

Does anyone know how this amount can be transferred easily, quickly, low fees, and good exchange rate?

Happy mongering.

G[/QUOTE]In the case of Australia, at present he is limited to a wire transfer (bank transfer) from his Ozzie bank account to a Filipino bank account. There are fees of around $30 AU & the exchange rate will be pretty lousy at the moment. If he is wealthy enough to have an HSBC premier account or Citibank account he may be able to do a little better. Transfer times are typically 3-5 business days.

There is no cheap, fast way with good exchange rates from Australia unless you are wealthy.

AV.

[QUOTE=Snow1998;1648949]Not sex related but hope some good souls could shed light on the matter. Cargo sent via sea freight from Dubai to manila in Oct is said going to be cleared 'probably' by February or later, WTF is going on in Manila? The cargo office here is only saying delays in manila due congestion. Any sensible information appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Snow[/QUOTE]The port has long been inadequate, inefficient & corrupt but has reached dizzying new heights of FUBAR since the government tried to ban all heavy vehicles from Manila streets during daylight hours. The decision has been partially reversed but not before a massive log jam of ships, shipping containers & transport trucks had developed. This is likely to remain the situation for the foreseeable future.

Inter island shipping is controlled by a monopoly cartel. It's very expensive & insecure.

The Philippines customs office regularly ransacks & pillages freight at will.

The Philippines postal service is right there with them.

I'd give it a swerve if I were you cobber.

AV.

So that is why my balikbayan boxes haven't arrived yet. Guess, I had better not hold my breath waiting for them.

Help! I'm suffering severe hobnob biscuit withdrawal symptoms!

[QUOTE=CunningStunt;1649028]So that is why my balikbayan boxes haven't arrived yet. Guess, I had better not hold my breath waiting for them.

Help! I'm suffering severe hobnob biscuit withdrawal symptoms![/QUOTE]Check out Howzat pub. They have all sorts English goodies at the back counter. Oxo, bovril, hp sauce, branny pickle, cream crackers, even saw Ready Brek there once.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1649034]Check out Howzat pub. They have all sorts English goodies at the back counter. Oxo, bovril, hp sauce, branny pickle, cream crackers, even saw Ready Brek there once.[/QUOTE]Thanks FF. That list reads like my packing list. Except marmite instead of bovril.

Can someone please help point me in the direction to some resources for a first time mongerer? I don't want to just ask all the questions here as I'm sure that would be annoying and I'm sure they've all been asked before but I'd like to plan a trip sometime next year and I just want it to be a great trip.

Thanks in advance.

[QUOTE=CunningStunt;1649038]Thanks FF. That list reads like my packing list. Except marmite instead of bovril.[/QUOTE]You bloody pom's wouldn't know good food if it hit ya in the chops! LOL! Vegemite!

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1649041] LOL! Vegemite!

AV.[/QUOTE]Marmite. Vegemite. Same black, gooey shit isn't it? Great on toast, though.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1649041]You bloody pom's wouldn't know good food if it hit ya in the chops! LOL! Vegemite!

AV.[/QUOTE]I maybe a pommie but vegemite gets my vote. Have it every weekend. Lovely stuff.

Last weekend asked a "weekend visitor" if she wanted to smell it. Gagged and asked if it was engine oil. LOL /.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1649078]I maybe a pommie but vegemite gets my vote. Have it every weekend. Lovely stuff.

Last weekend asked a "weekend visitor" if she wanted to smell it. Gagged and asked if it was engine oil. LOL /.[/QUOTE]Tried Vegemite for the first time recently at the Marriot breakfast buffet in Cebu, reminded me more of roofing tar in both taste and appearance. It wasn't the worst thing I ever ate, but it does rank pretty high on my list. Guess it's an acquired taste like balut, LOL.

Flying over Manila bay at daylight, I did notice there were a lot of ships anchored out there 2 two weeks ago.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1649034]Check out Howzat pub. They have all sorts English goodies at the back counter. Oxo, bovril, hp sauce, branny pickle, cream crackers, even saw Ready Brek there once.[/QUOTE]Also Team Insider that is next to the Tune Hotel in Burgos, same owner I think so lots of expat treats there also (I mean food not pinays LOL).

[QUOTE=Amavida;1649029]One of my GF's just gave me her 'old' iPhone 5 since she has upgraded to a six+.

The bloody thing is still like new since all she used it for was txt LOL!

I'd forgotten how bloody well these things work in comparison to an Android or Winphone.

AV.[/QUOTE]Wow congrats! That's the first time I heard of a guy getting a hand me down from a pinay. I thought it all was a one way stream and all they gave me in return was sweetness, sex and a temporary feeling of true love and bonding.

The only ones I have ever GF'd were the poor ones. I have encountered some that were not but they were too much work by comparison and usually older than I prefer.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1649219]Also Team Insider that is next to the Tune Hotel in Burgos, same owner I think so lots of expat treats there also (I mean food not pinays LOL).[/QUOTE]Thumbs-up to TI. Roomy, clean, pool tables also. Its a bit like a Hooters (minus the hotties in shorts).

Gentlemen,

Thanks for the advice about transferring money to the Phils.

Looks like there is no easy way which is cheap, fast, and gives a good exchange rate.

Bank fees and rotten exchange rate. No wonder Aust banks are some of the most profitable in the world.

Happy mongering,

G

[QUOTE=Amavida;1649029]One of my GF's just gave me her 'old' iPhone 5 since she has upgraded to a six+. (SNIP) I'd forgotten how bloody well these things work in comparison to an Android or Winphone. [/QUOTE]The iPhone has revolutionized my texting world. With the Siri feature I just dictate the messages I wish to send. I've rid myself of the pain in my left thumb, and I can get my first round of morning texting done in under an hour!

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1649295]Thumbs-up to TI. Roomy, clean, pool tables also. Its a bit like a Hooters (minus the hotties in shorts).[/QUOTE]TI has great strong wi-fi connections. Also plenty of electrical floor outlets by the tables to charge your laptops, tablets and / or cell phones. What I really like is the non-smoking room. Has one of the best Hawaiian pizza on a thin crust.

[QUOTE=Pantot;1649261]Wow congrats! That's the first time I heard of a guy getting a hand me down from a pinay. I thought it all was a one way stream and all they gave me in return was sweetness, sex and a temporary feeling of true love and bonding.

The only ones I have ever GF'd were the poor ones. I have encountered some that were not but they were too much work by comparison and usually older than I prefer.[/QUOTE]LOL! Thanks. My 'A' team are not rice paddy refugee's. The rich like to big note themselves in Asia just as anywhere. Who knows what machieavellian plots are in her female Pinay brain.

AV.

Just go back 20 pages on Manila, gen info, Angles city, and read forward. Then you will know area? Where you are going? Have you mongered before, Do you want to do dating sites. Well go back 20 pages there and read forward. You will ask good questions then. RP meaning Republic of the Phillipines has many types of mongering places and ways. But it is one of the best in Asia for the GFE, meaning girl friend experience. Happy hunting.

[QUOTE=Dg8787;1649321]TI has great strong wi-fi connections. Also plenty of electrical floor outlets by the tables to charge your laptops, tablets and / or cell phones. What I really like is the non-smoking room. Has one of the best Hawaiian pizza on a thin crust.[/QUOTE]I have found the WiFi at Team Insider hit and miss at times. Many times I have been there the staff need to reboot everything and recently due to someone banging a hammer etc the WiFi was switched off so I went to Handlebar.

No smoke is great as the smokers can sit outside.

Dg. To quote the guy who was voted best pizza maker "pineapple and pizza don't mix, you never put pineapple with pizza" LOL.

[QUOTE=Redman69;1649450]Just go back 20 pages on Manila, gen info, Angles city, and read forward. Then you will know area? Where you are going? Have you mongered before, Do you want to do dating sites. Well go back 20 pages there and read forward. You will ask good questions then. RP meaning Republic of the Phillipines has many types of mongering places and ways. But it is one of the best in Asia for the GFE, meaning girl friend experience. Happy hunting.[/QUOTE]Not to be too disrespectul, Red, but what is this post referring to?

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1649454]I have found the WiFi at Team Insider hit and miss at times. Many times I have been there the staff need to reboot everything and recently due to someone banging a hammer etc the WiFi was switched off so I went to Handlebar.

No smoke is great as the smokers can sit outside.

Dg. To quote the guy who was voted best pizza maker "pineapple and pizza don't mix, you never put pineapple with pizza" LOL.[/QUOTE]That pizza maker didn't get my vote. I have taken a couple girls there for the Hawaiian pizza, it was like foreplay and prelube!

[QUOTE=Amavida;1649424]LOL! Thanks. My 'A' team are not rice paddy refugee's. The rich like to big note themselves in Asia just as anywhere. Who knows what machieavellian plots are in her female Pinay brain.

AV.[/QUOTE]You give my A team too much credit.

Rice paddy life is hard ass work, never even encountered one. Mine don't have the intestinal fortitude to handle such a life. Sari store refugee might be more apt. The main attraction of my lineup is its like a college football team. They have a perpetual glow of youth because they are an always changing roster no one ever gets old because they graduate and fresh coeds are always added. The difference is though while appearing to be physically fit, and looking adorable, its more a function of poverty which morphs into something quite unappealing well before the age of 30.

[QUOTE=Sam14;1649314]The iPhone has revolutionized my texting world. With the Siri feature I just dictate the messages I wish to send. I've rid myself of the pain in my left thumb, and I can get my first round of morning texting done in under an hour![/QUOTE]My car has full iPhone integration. Now that I've tried it, dictating & firing off emails & texts is a breeze. I'm amazed how good the voice recognition is. My Android phone was pretty crap at this.

AV.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1649472]Not to be too disrespectul, Red, but what is this post referring to?[/QUOTE]He's telling the guy to RTFF, ever so nicely.

AV.

[QUOTE=Gangles;1648603]A Filipino friend of mine here in Australia needs to send $30,000 to the Philippines to buy a house.

Does anyone know how this amount can be transferred easily, quickly, low fees, and good exchange rate?

Happy mongering.

G[/QUOTE]Earlier this year I set up an account with these guys:[URL]https://www.afex.com/australia/[/URL].

Easy to transact once I had done all of the paperwork. Then it is done through BPay from your bank. Takes 2-3 days. Rates were better than my corporate bank.

[QUOTE=CunningStunt;1649028]Help! I'm suffering severe hobnob biscuit withdrawal symptoms![/QUOTE]Hahaha! Who cares?

I'm suffering severe Pinay withdrawel symptoms. Now do you have any idea what I'm going through? I'm barely alive anymore, LOL!

So what the fuck am I doing in Vietnam? Oh well.

I arrived on the 18 went get the longer visa at the airport, I said "can I have a visa extension" " yes sir that is 3000 peso" said the officer. I counted the total bill it came to 2786 welcome back to Phil.

QUOTE=Pantot its like a college football team ENDQUOTE. I like this football team analogy, Pan. It also suggests the constant need for training and salary caps. The older players do have an expiration date.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1648996]Short answer: there is HUGE problem at both Manila ports. Ships are waiting weeks and even months to get a berth. Too many ships trying to dock at a port that doesn't have the capacity. And of course mismanagement and corruption. Manila Bay has become a parking lot. If you google "Manila port congestion" you'll find all the news reports of it as well as the finger pointing.[/QUOTE]Many thanks to you and all who chipped in, much appreciated. Guess its the waiting game now. Next time will use air freight, but possibly futile and just end up wasting money on that.

On the previous page Official knight asked for advice for a newbie. I was recommending he go to the different forum titles and go back 20 pages and read forward. He would understand more that just little ole me could give him. Thanks for your polite inquiry.

[QUOTE=Snow1998;1650146]Many thanks to you and all who chipped in, much appreciated. Guess its the waiting game now. Next time will use air freight, but possibly futile and just end up wasting money on that.[/QUOTE]Fedex try hard. Unfortunately Philippine customs have a habit of grabbing parcels & making up imaginary numbers for 'etax' to extort from recipients before the parcels are released. I sent an older laptop but charged tax as if it was brand new, gave up arguing & let them have it rather than give in & pay the BS charge. Sent a box of religious books, box arrived in the recipients hands with a big hole torn in the top & empty, but not before the recipient had to pay some bogus collection fee. Galling.

AV.

[QUOTE=Redman69;1650220]On the previous page Official knight asked for advice for a newbie. I was recommending he go to the different forum titles and go back 20 pages and read forward. He would understand more that just little ole me could give him. Thanks for your polite inquiry.[/QUOTE]Some containers must be getting through as my three balikbayan boxes arrived safely this morning. Just under 2 months door to door. They normally take 6 weeks so the delay is marginal. I am now the proud possessor of a years supply of typhoo tea bags. LOL.

It should be in the jokes thread but I know the PI mongers will appreciate it.

[URL]http://matadornetwork.com/life/48-ways-traveling-like-sex/[/URL]

[QUOTE=Snow1998;1650146]Many thanks to you and all who chipped in, much appreciated. Guess its the waiting game now. Next time will use air freight, but possibly futile and just end up wasting money on that.[/QUOTE]Just a heads up. A lot of companies are shifting to air freight to bypass the port; for companies that live and breathe just-in-time delivery a delay of a few days is a major headache, once it becomes weeks it's a catastrophe. A friend is scrambling to find space on flight(s) for 36,000 kg of textiles. It's practically unheard of to air freight bolts of fabric, but his company has a garment contract that has to be fulfilled. He already knows he'll have to ship the finished garments by air cargo too. Anyway, depending where you ship from it may take more time than usual to have your parcels dispatched. Freight rates follow the law of supply and demand.

Recently there was some discussion about cleaning up after a girls visit and I found something else that needs to be checked. All of my girls know that I see other girls, but even so I don't like to be too flagrant about it. After a girl (s) leaves I do clean up, just not to the extent some of you go.

The other day one of my regular girls spent the night and in the morning, as she got ready for work, I made her coffee and a light breakfast. Being well trained she washed, dried and put away the dishes; then headed off to her job. That night I had 2 more of my regular girls stay over for a 3 some, next morning I also made them coffee and breakfast (girls love it when a guy cooks for them; even something simple like eggs and rice). Girl 1 grabbed a coffee mug, filled it with some fresh brewed coffee and after adding about 1/2 pound of sugar she was about to take a sip when she noticed some traces lipstick on the rim of the mug. Busted!

We had a good laugh about it, but some of you more anal retentive guys should take note to check your coffee mugs / cups as well as your drinking glasses before the next girl uses one of them.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1650600]These long winded complaint posts are just as off topic. When I first came to this forum 8 years or so ago I first went back 20 pages or so, read forward & used the search function. Then I was in a position to ask a few targeted questions & contribute a few comments / experiences. Regulars just ask newbies to make that minimal initial effort before demanding everything handed to them on a platter.
Regulars here are often generously helpful to those who demonstrate they have made an effort to help themselves. It's human nature.
Sex is so easy to get & so cheap, it doesn't require obsessive anal focus on just that at all times. Do a little leg work, use a little manners, be surprised.

AV.[/QUOTE]This is the second dig at me in recent weeks for posting an opinion. I know you twisted my opinion into a complaint, a long winded complaint to be precise. Your very good at twisting reality to your advantage but I will not sit idly by while you try and impress the BMs here at my expense, dig? I guess you thought I would play nice as you sling your itsey bitsy insults my way but not this time. I just can't.

Of course when another BM attacks my post I take a look at the attacker's post history. I'm looking at your post history right now and to put it nicely you add almost nothing to this board. Many of your inept post are also off topic and in the wrong forum, e / g The Angeles City forum, so maybe that's why you felt a need to insult me. So not only do you constantly post about nothing but you do it many times in the wrong forum.

All posted in the wrong forums. Look for yourself.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1649167]Everything you say is true Huts. The other mobile platforms have their problems also. IOS devices tend to be far more reliable & better sorted in my experience. At long last Apple's iCloud Drive is a big step in he right direction toward parity with DropBox or Onedrive but still has a way to go.

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Amavida;1649029]One of my GF's just gave me her 'old' iPhone 5 since she has upgraded to a six+.

The bloody thing is still like new since all she used it for was txt LOL!

I'd forgotten how bloody well these things work in comparison to an Android or Winphone.

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Amavida;1649027]Indeed, those of us who are here by choice have some utopian dreams but in the end we like it just as it is LOL! I try not to be one of 'those' foreigners who constantly complains about the place.

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Amavida;1647135]Some of you guys crack me up. You can afford thousands of $$$ in airfares? You can afford thousands of $$$ in hotel charges? But you can't afford the comfort & convenience of a private car nor pay the girls you have sex with? Get real. ,

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Amavida;1647131]This is a joke right?

Blind Freddie can see these are not even the same girl & lousy amateur attempt at photo shopping.

I guess your point is to illustrate scammers post profiles on FC. CONGRATULATIONS. They are everywhere & really easy to spot / ignore. Now can we move on please?

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Amavida;1647129]Please tell me this is tongue in cheek?

This is a scammer profile & in no way represents the real Pinay you will meet / bonk here.

[URL]http://www.romancescam.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=45891&start=60[/URL]

AV.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Amavida;1642934]Correct, its never truly free but its very possible to have an instant GF who will practically move in & bang on demand in exchange for meals / gifts / chance of marriage. Alternatively you can pump & dump in which case P1 k. P2 k is fair & reasonable fir a non pro on a per visit basis. The cheap charoies who try to con the women into providing sex for absolutely nothing at all times I will let you make up your own mind about. I believe in karma & its good business to have a rep as a generous payer. Up to you.

AV.[/QUOTE]Geez,

I getting tired of this, Amavida's meaningless post go on forever and ever. I looked at 30 + or so and he hasn't bedded one pussy, all he does is yak yak yak incessantly about nothing. Often time times in the post I've read he has his nose way up somebodies ass. Mr Amavida you are a great Brown Noser but what else is in your posting history. Where can I find relevant mongering info about women in the PI? You never talk about your conquest, price, place, or experience w / the opposite sex.

WTF are you Mr Amavida, are you the ISG yes man?? I know your not my yes man other wise you would still have some credibility on this board. No, you chose to shoot your little insults my way and now you probably wish you hadn't. Go away now, the board will be a better place w / out you. The truth is not always pleasant, especially for dip shits.

Maybe you're a woman or a little kid, but if you're an adult you should be ashamed.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1650624]Girl 1 grabbed a coffee mug, filled it with some fresh brewed coffee and after adding about 1/2 pound of sugar she was about to take a sip when she noticed some traces lipstick on the rim of the mug. Busted!.[/QUOTE]She should be punished for that poor cleaning / washing error PJ. And I know what we could use LOL.

But seriously this is a problem and you are lucky that you had someone who saw it as fun as many don't. One friend luckily found a red g string hidden under the pillow (well inside the pillow case)- a pinay did this so his wife would know he was being naughty in the hope she would kick him out and he would marry her (well she was 50% correct but that happened later).

So we all need to be careful as pinay jealousy has no boundaries!!

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1650716]I'll take a crack. All the boards (countries) have off track stuff. The ones with no complaints are the ones with fewer posters, where there are sometimes days or weeks between posts. Other boards have similar off-track complaints; this one from the Medellin / Columbia thread (first page):

Having said that, a reminder that these are the phils boards, mostly populated and run by the old guard (BM's?) Mostly their rules will apply. One gets to be in that club by posting informative / descriptive FR's. Once in, you're in. Everyone else is a newb. This ain't the thai, DR, or brazilian boards. Its easier to accept your criticism Socker, as you have been a regular poster on the phils boards, including pics. Its when newbs (anyone lacking previous informative posts) make the complaint that I don't take it seriously.[/QUOTE]First felicitations and kudos on your pic posting as of late.

To the OT matter. My post was not a complaint but an observation and I was trying to take a little heat away from the newbs that complained. I agree that before someone complains there should be some contributions by BMs.

What I was attempting to do was point out the origin of off topic posts and that when they are realized just move it to the general forum (like I will do w this OT post, it has taken a life of it's own now).

Also in my original OT post I mentioned that the PI forum has a pretty good history as to other forums e. G. The Medellin Forum. I know because I like to go to the PI and Meddy and so I'm involved w / both forums.

The PI forum is a very well run imo. The PG here is awesome and NOW newcomers are contributing w / great shots thanks to guys like you who lead the way.

I try and only post positive stuff or support another BMs pov and unfortunately I and others are sniped at by (what can I say?) unhappy BMs? All I want to do here is learn, have some laughs, and drool at the great pussy in the PG. I want nothing more. I certainly don't want to wreck another BMs day or make life tough but don't be a jerk around here. Lets respect each other and allow for observations and opinions to flow freely w / out the sniping, insults and slurs.

Once again, I wasn't complaining because it's not a big problem here. Just an observation WC, take care.

Have been reading Philippines boards for a while now, but never saw anything pertaining to gambling in the country. Are there any racebooks, sportsbetting palors or casinos?

One can monger only so long.

[QUOTE=JohnGault;1651364]Have been reading Philippines boards for a while now, but never saw anything pertaining to gambling in the country. Are there any racebooks, sportsbetting palors or casinos?

One can monger only so long.[/QUOTE]There's a casino in Malate connected to a major hotel (near LA Cafe). Walked through it but don't recall the name and didn't gamble.

[QUOTE=JohnGault;1651364]Have been reading Philippines boards for a while now, but never saw anything pertaining to gambling in the country. Are there any racebooks, sportsbetting palors or casinos?

One can monger only so long.[/QUOTE]There are plenty of casinos in PI. Many in Manila and I think there are even a few in AC.

I haven't been to any for some years, but most in Manila used to have quite strict dress standards. No jeans or shorts for guys!

Spent a week in Manila. Brief impressions, many gorgeous women and friendly people. Only real downside is the traffic which is an iron gate to travel. I will not spend 90 minutes each way to go 3 miles.

Best suggestion is to pick a mongering area and stay as close as possible. KiwiBoy mentioned staying right next to LA cafe, or close to the EDSA Complex would be good choices.

If your working the freebies or home delivery they can come to you. However always expect them to be late.

Guido88.

[QUOTE=Socker;1650690]This is the second dig at me in recent weeks for posting an opinion. <snip> <snip> <snip> <snip> <snip> & <SNIP!>[/QUOTE]Phew! That was quite the rant wasn't it?

Nobody is having a dig at you. There is no pissing contest. Its all in your mind cobber. Ultimately I'll read & post what I damn well please & no Nazi is going to say otherwise.

Cheers.
AV.

[QUOTE=JohnGault;1651364]Have been reading Philippines boards for a while now, but never saw anything pertaining to gambling in the country. Are there any racebooks, sportsbetting palors or casinos?

One can monger only so long.[/QUOTE]Caveat: I'm not a gambler.

Filipino's are huge gamblers as with other Asian countries. Cock fighting & lottery for the poor & casino's for the temporarily rich (soon to be poor).

Manila: [URL]http://www.casinosinmanila.com/[/URL].

Malate (Manila) : [URL]http://manila.casino.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html[/URL].

Angeles: [URL]http://www.casinofilipino.ph/angeles/[/URL].

Cebu: [URL]http://www.waterfronthotels.com.ph/[/URL].

That should get you started.

Cheers.

AV.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1650624]Recently there was some discussion about cleaning up after a girls visit and I found something else that needs to be checked. All of my girls know that I see other girls, but even so I don't like to be too flagrant about it. After a girl (s) leaves I do clean up, just not to the extent some of you go.

The other day one of my regular girls spent the night and in the morning, as she got ready for work, I made her coffee and a light breakfast. Being well trained she washed, dried and put away the dishes; then headed off to her job. That night I had 2 more of my regular girls stay over for a 3 some, next morning I also made them coffee and breakfast (girls love it when a guy cooks for them; even something simple like eggs and rice). Girl 1 grabbed a coffee mug, filled it with some fresh brewed coffee and after adding about 1/2 pound of sugar she was about to take a sip when she noticed some traces lipstick on the rim of the mug. Busted!

We had a good laugh about it, but some of you more anal retentive guys should take note to check your coffee mugs / cups as well as your drinking glasses before the next girl uses one of them.[/QUOTE]Well PIP, you would have to be a psychopath not to care enough to remove traces so as not to rub their noses in it but on the other hand, I am an emancipated male. I don't tell them lies, they know I am a busy boy. If a girl gets too possessive she becomes an ex quickly & without fuss. End of story. There is an endless supply of vagina's out there.
Its remarkable how hypocritical women are, even sex workers visiting can be caught going through cupboards looking for 'evidence' of other women. It seems in their DNA.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1651513]Phew! That was quite the rant wasn't it?

Nobody is having a dig at you. There is no pissing contest. Its all in your mind cobber. Ultimately I'll read & post what I damn well please & no Nazi is going to say otherwise.

Cheers.
AV.[/QUOTE]

I see you have resumed your brown nosing and that's good, it's what you do best.

[QUOTE=DCups;1651371]There's a casino in Malate connected to a major hotel (near LA Cafe). Walked through it but don't recall the name and didn't gamble.[/QUOTE]That has to go in the Posts of Distinction with the title of the most unhelpful post ever. I wonder why DC bothered to even open his computer.

The casino could be one of 4 "near" LAC. You probably mean Hyatt Hotel DC.

I suggest gamblers stay away from the horseracing unless you just wish to have an experience. Churchill Downs, Flemington or Ascot it ain't. Races are rigged.

Cock fighting is a HUGE sport outside of Metro Manila.

Jueting is in every barangay all over.

My suggestion to the OP: Just stick to Casinos if you want to gamble without hassle.

Has he offered to buy you a drink yet. LOL.

[QUOTE=Socker;1651581]I see you have resumed your brown nosing and that's good, it's what you do best.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=Socker;1651581]I see you have resumed your brown nosing and that's good, it's what you do best.[/QUOTE]You come to the PI forums ranting, demanding & name calling. Thank you for your application to the ignore list. Application approved!

AV.

Yeah DC that casino is right by the bar I went to somewhere around LA Café. I don't remember the name of it, but all the girls in the place looked like they came from that same casino. I didn't ask because I didn't stay for a drink.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1651516]Caveat: I'm not a gambler.

Filipino's are huge gamblers as with other Asian countries. Cock fighting & lottery for the poor & casino's for the temporarily rich (soon to be poor).

Manila: [URL]http://www.casinosinmanila.com/[/URL].

Malate (Manila) : [URL]http://manila.casino.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html[/URL].

Angeles: [URL]http://www.casinofilipino.ph/angeles/[/URL].

Cebu: [URL]http://www.waterfronthotels.com.ph/[/URL].

That should get you started.

Cheers.

AV.[/QUOTE]Is it easy to pick up a girl at the casinos (for example, like Peru or the Dominican Republic)? I do not enjoy gambling, because I always lose. But I like to watch other people gamble (for about 30 minutes), and I have done extremely well in the past finding girls who think I am a big roller to take home for a roll in the sheets.

[QUOTE=Forest;1651940]Is it easy to pick up a girl at the casinos (for example, like Peru or the Dominican Republic)? I do not enjoy gambling, because I always lose. But I like to watch other people gamble (for about 30 minutes), and I have done extremely well in the past finding girls who think I am a big roller to take home for a roll in the sheets.[/QUOTE]Pro's & amateurs hang around casino's, night clubs & bars here as other countries. Just walking past the casino in Malate after 10 pm is enough to be solicited.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1651518]Well PIP, you would have to be a psychopath not to care enough to remove traces so as not to rub their noses in it but on the other hand, I am an emancipated male. I don't tell them lies, they know I am a busy boy. If a girl gets too possessive she becomes an ex quickly & without fuss. End of story. There is an endless supply of vagina's out there.
Its remarkable how hypocritical women are, even sex workers visiting can be caught going through cupboards looking for 'evidence' of other women. It seems in their DNA.

AV.[/QUOTE]Following my recent trip I had a " can I ask you a question" from one of my ladies. Thats usually a prelude to a personal question, either " can I barrow money " or something else.

In this case it was a " did you see other girls during your trip". I replied that I did indeed.

She said " oh that's why there was a condom in your bathroom garbage bin ".

She was cool about that, which was fine.

Suprisingly though she didn't ask why there was a black leather dog collar and chain on the bed which had been worn by the previous visitor to my room.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1651518]Well PIP, you would have to be a psychopath [/QUOTE]Many moons ago after examining me, the Professor Dokter in the gulag put a slightly different label on it. But you were pretty close to hitting the mark.

South of the LA Cafe there's a casino in the Hyatt. North, there one on UN Avenue.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1651931]Yeah DC that casino is right by the bar I went to somewhere around LA Caf. I don't remember the name of it, but all the girls in the place looked like they came from that same casino. I didn't ask because I didn't stay for a drink.[/QUOTE]

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1651998]She said " oh that's why there was a condom in your bathroom garbage bin ".

She was cool about that, which was fine.

Suprisingly though she didn't ask why there was a black leather dog collar and chain on the bed which had been worn by the previous visitor to my room.[/QUOTE]The condom is a first for me, have had "why is there a bloody napkin in the toilet waste bin" - I had a nosebleed darling and that's all I could find when walking down Burgos LOL.

As for the dog collar, she was likely wondering when you were going to wear it? LOL.

QUOTE Red Kilt "You probably mean Hyatt Hotel, DC". Yes. They have a nice breakfast buffet, too. First I provide too much information and then not enough. Sheeesh. All you cranky people should get laid and stop whining.

[QUOTE=DCups;1652115]QUOTE Red Kilt "You probably mean Hyatt Hotel, DC". Yes. They have a nice breakfast buffet, too. First I provide too much information and then not enough. Sheeesh. All you cranky people should get laid and stop whining.[/QUOTE]DCups, I am not trying to pile on, but please hit the "reply with quote" button found at the bottom right of each individual post when you want to quote someone and hit the "reply with quotes +" button for multiple quotes. It makes reading quoted posts and their responses SO much easier. Thanks, and you can call me "A Cups" if you want ha ha ... just joking. Party on!

The new Henry Sy casino Bella Grand is rename to City of Dream Manila new investment from Melco ent and city of dream Macau opening is delay again schedule to open last month but now sometime next yr, there are too many large casino been open in Manila the last few yr the Solaries and the Resort world ,the new city of Dream have 3 new hotel the Hyatt city of Dream ,Crown tower and Nobu hotel .

Fast eddie 48.

[QUOTE=NattyBumpo;1652155]DCups, I am not trying to pile on, but please hit the "reply with quote" button found at the bottom right of each individual post when you want to quote someone and hit the "reply with quotes +" button for multiple quotes. It makes reading quoted posts and their responses SO much easier. Thanks, and you can call me "A Cups" if you want ha ha ... just joking. Party on![/QUOTE]I suspect that Dcups has started posting using a (not so) Smart phone or tablet and this is causing the screw up. It is only in the last month or so that this difficulty has arisen with his posts.

There is a guy on the China forums who also has the same problem, and has been requested by others to fix it, but never has.

48 hours ago I asked that two Filipinos who hold themselves out as real estate agents contact me as I want to move to their city soon. Glad I didn't hold my breath. Wala from either of these "experts." The work ethic and business skills of the "business people" in this country is of the same pi$$ poor quality of everything else they do. Unless they think they can make a fast buck, they're just going to be content eating their rice and fish, watching singing and dancing and being irresponsible with pregnancies. Oh, I left out sleeping.

I know that if I was in London, Chicago, Sydney or Moscow, those agents would have found out where I live and they'd be knocking my door down by now. These pinheads can't even respond to an inquiry by any form of communication known by man in the 21st century. It's 9:05 am as I'm writing this, and they're probably still sleeping. What failures these e'ffing people are.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1652287]48 hours ago I asked that two Filipinos who hold themselves out as real estate agents contact me as I want to move to their city soon. Glad I didn't hold my breath. Wala from either of these "experts." The work ethic and business skills of the "business people" in this country is of the same pi$$ poor quality of everything else they do.

I know that if I was in London, Chicago, Sydney or Moscow, those agents would have found out where I live and they'd be knocking my door down by now. These pinheads can't even respond to an inquiry by any form of communication known by man in the 21st century. It's 9:05 am as I'm writing this, and they're probably still sleeping. What failures these e'ffing people are.[/QUOTE]Alternatively, I have a real estate agent that replies to me within 12 hours about updated valuations, how to handle city taxes, and market outlooks, and other real estate issues. A really efficient switched on gent who even remembers my birthday. If the agent you have chosen doesn't work for you, change agents, there are many.

Don't malign all due to your frustrations with a few.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1652303]Alternatively, I have a real estate agent that replies to me within 12 hours about updated valuations, how to handle city taxes, and market outlooks, and other real estate issues. A really efficient switched on gent who even remembers my birthday. If the agent you have chosen doesn't work for you, change agents, there are many.

Don't malign all due to your frustrations with a few.[/QUOTE]Agree with FF. Most "realtors" are fanatics and will drive you nuts with constant follow-ups. Of all pinoys that might be classified as "lazy", real estate sellers are NOT. I suspect the OP just met some bogus agents who were big-timing themselves.

I made the mistake of giving my number to a real estate representative once when she pleaded that she needed it to show her boss that she had been working. I was bombarded day and night by messages; worse still she shared my number with her colleagues, and the only way I could stop the texts was to change my number.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1651975]Pro's & amateurs hang around casino's, night clubs & bars here as other countries. Just walking past the casino in Malate after 10 pm is enough to be solicited.

AV.[/QUOTE]And walking around Malate after 10 pm is 'generally' not good for one's own health.

Your life expectancy may suddenly reduce.

Just saying so, from experience!!

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1651998]In this case it was a " did you see other girls during your trip". I replied that I did indeed.[/QUOTE]These are usually the first words out of my mouth when seeing someone new. I used to think it would be a deal breaker, but it is exactly the opposite. Usually I find the new girl trying to compete with the last one. I can't count the number of times I have detailed what I did with my previous date, only to have the new one say something like "Well, I'll [insert sex act here] much better than she did". Also eliminates a lot of jealousy since they know you see multiple women. I have yet to have a single pinay I met in person refuse to see me because I saw someone else before and intend to do the same after, as long as you establish this up front (same is not true on DIA though, but good to filter out the jealous types anyway).

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1651998]Following my recent trip I had a " can I ask you a question" from one of my ladies. Thats usually a prelude to a personal question, either " can I barrow money " or something else.

In this case it was a " did you see other girls during your trip". I replied that I did indeed.

She said " oh that's why there was a condom in your bathroom garbage bin ".

She was cool about that, which was fine.

Suprisingly though she didn't ask why there was a black leather dog collar and chain on the bed which had been worn by the previous visitor to my room.[/QUOTE]LOL! Yeah FF they have eagle eyes the moment your back is turned. Have often had a girl rat through a kitchen cupboard while I was showering or bathroom cupboard while I was fixing a drink on the kitchen. Sometimes they turn up girl crap that is not associated with me or my paramours but merely left behind by a previous hotel room occupant. After being quizzed & giving me the 'aww come on' routine I've had to just smile & say I don't need to lie about this, you are free to leave if you wish.

They lie & cheat routinely. They test you. If you are weak or aggressive you lose, in their minds. Be assertive in a friendly kidding around way, you win & get a little respect.

Pinay get out of jail clause 'I hope you understand me'. Heard that so very many times.

AV.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1652287]48 hours ago I asked that two Filipinos who hold themselves out as real estate agents contact me as I want to move to their city soon. Glad I didn't hold my breath. Wala from either of these "experts." The work ethic and business skills of the "business people" in this country is of the same pi$$ poor quality of everything else they do. Unless they think they can make a fast buck, they're just going to be content eating their rice and fish, watching singing and dancing and being irresponsible with pregnancies. Oh, I left out sleeping.

I know that if I was in London, Chicago, Sydney or Moscow, those agents would have found out where I live and they'd be knocking my door down by now. These pinheads can't even respond to an inquiry by any form of communication known by man in the 21st century. It's 9:05 am as I'm writing this, and they're probably still sleeping. What failures these e'ffing people are.[/QUOTE]Wait! There are professional Real Estate Agents here running successful business's & then there are the leaflet handing out wannabee's. Never confuse the two. Christ even my maid claims to be an agent! God bless her! LOL!!

AV.

As I remember, the drop rate (beginning rate) for a taxi from the airport taxi line was 70 p vs. 40 p for regular street taxis. This is outside PAL's terminal 2. When I arrived on a Sunday afternoon, there were no taxis, and I asked the dispatcher to call me one. "Is 440 p to Makati, sir". Hey, I was on a mission and couldn't wait. I'll take it. One appeared within 45 seconds, and off we went. As a side point, I do remember a tout who tried to corral me before I reached the taxi line, on my last trip, and offer me a car to Makati for 1600 p, showing me the "official" placard with the 1,600 p price.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1652350]And walking around Malate after 10 pm is 'generally' not good for one's own health. Your life expectancy may suddenly reduce. Just saying so, from experience!![/QUOTE]I respect your opinion & generally agree with the proviso that short walk from nearby hotels is generally ok PROVIDED that your are not impaired by a substance you have ingested &/ or not not flagging your self by ostentatious displays of wealth. In other words, use common sense & don't walk drunk & blinged 10 blocks in the dark LOL!

AV.

If you're so inclined say a prayer for the Filipinos today, especially those in Samar, Leyte and Bicol. Stay safe everyone.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1653100]If you're so inclined say a prayer for the Filipinos today, especially those in Samar, Leyte and Bicol. Stay safe everyone.[/QUOTE]Huts, Hagupit has been downgraded from Super Typhoon over night, thank god.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1653103]Huts, Hagupit has been downgraded from Super Typhoon over night, thank god.

AV.[/QUOTE]And what has that got to do with the price of tea in China? Classified as a Super Typhoon or not, it's still going to wreak havoc.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1653115]Classified as a Super Typhoon or not, it's still going to wreak havoc.[/QUOTE]Right. At some point the difference between 175 kmph wind / 60 cm rain and 210 kmph wind / 80 cm rain doesn't matter. Either will eff you up.

Maria Cristina added 2 new photos — with Paola Charvet Barretto at Robinson's Ermita, Manila.

December 2 at 9:06 am ·.

By just sharing this perhaps it will go a thousand miles for a simple favor. He is from Chicago and his Filipina wife left him with empty pocket. If someone have a connections in the US embassy to help him go back home to his family in the US. He gave us his contact number and full address in the US.

By just sharing this perhaps it will go a thousand miles for a simple favor. He is from Chicago and his Filipina wife left him with empty pocket. If someone have a connections in the US embassy to help him go back home to his family in the US. He gave us his contact number and full address in the US.

By just sharing this perhaps it will go a thousand miles for a simple favor. He is from Chicago and his Filipina wife left him with empty pocket. If someone have a connections in the US embassy to help him go back home to his family in the US. He gave us his contact number and full address in the US.

Share.

6 people like this.

81,251 shares.

Hazel Cruz Kawawa naman.

December 2 at 6:08 pm.

Paola Charvet Barretto Yes atsi nakausap namin siya kagabi.

December 2 at 6:08 pm.

Hazel Cruz Te dapt punta sya US embassy, kahit tambay lng sa labas, lolz.

December 2 at 6:31 pm.

Paola Charvet Barretto Sinubukan na niya di siya matulungan kasi TNT na siya here nag over stay na siya.

December 2 at 6:32 pm.

Hazel Cruz Naku, relatives from US can help.

December 2 at 6:34 pm.

[QUOTE=Hutsori;1653176]Right. At some point the difference between 175 kmph wind / 60 cm rain and 210 kmph wind / 80 cm rain doesn't matter. Either will eff you up.[/QUOTE]Politics will play.

As of now PNoy managed to convince the Tacloban Mayor as a cry baby.

Once this storm passes, the rulers will do everything to win votes before swinging in to help, I am sure.

Sad, they never learn to build proper storm shelters, lest people may not vote for saviors.

I read the storm is moving slowly, means the damage maybe worse than Yolanda!

Having sat through two storms in the periphery I can imagine what hope the victims can have.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1653115]And what has that got to do with the price of tea in China? Classified as a Super Typhoon or not, it's still going to wreak havoc.[/QUOTE]Well let's see. I grew up in the tropics. Cyclones & Typhoons are a fact of life. 'Downgraded' is a word you want to hear. 'Intensified' is not a word you want to hear. For the sake of the people in its path I'm hoping this storm continues to weaken & move slowly.

AV.

I strongly suggest that you avoid Globe Cellular service in the Philippines. Use smart instead.

At random I purchased Globe service at the airport when given a choice between Globe and Smart. Lonely Planet suggests both.

I paid 1500 and my friend paid 1500 for a full month of free data text and phone, which is what the woman who worked at the airport kiosk promised.

Of course, as soon as we left the airport, we found out that neither of us had a working cell phone for more than the 100 credits that came with the sim card. We spent 2 hours in the Globe store trying to fix the problem and eventually they just told us to f-off after multiple calls. I basically just wasted my time and money.

We decided to get Smart cell phone service instead and had no further problems.

I strongly suggest that you do not get GLOBE Cellular service in the Philippines.

[QUOTE=EconoTech;1653235]Politics will play.

As of now PNoy managed to convince the Tacloban Mayor as a cry baby.

Once this storm passes, the rulers will do everything to win votes before swinging in to help, I am sure.

Sad, they never learn to build proper storm shelters, lest people may not vote for saviors.

I read the storm is moving slowly, means the damage maybe worse than Yolanda!

Having sat through two storms in the periphery I can imagine what hope the victims can have.[/QUOTE]I have always found that the most reliable intel regarding storms is on [URL]tropicalstormrisk.com[/URL].

As you can see from the grab shot below, the storm has decreased from a category 5 (super typhoon) and is probably a category 1 by now.

But of course Manila's drainage system does not even have the capability of handling a tropical depression, without the roads etc becoming flooded.

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1653306]I have always found that the most reliable intel regarding storms is on [URL]tropicalstormrisk.com[/URL].

As you can see from the grab shot below, the storm has decreased from a category 5 (super typhoon) and is probably a category 1 by now.

But of course Manila's drainage system does not even have the capability of handling a tropical depression, without the roads etc becoming flooded.[/QUOTE]How many days after does it take normally "I know floods can vary" but let's say a large flood to clear off enough to get around? Also I arrive Tuesday 9th in afternoon LOL airline didn't cancel as of yet so my concern is how to get from airport to QC if the flood or damage is bad.

Thanks.

Be.

[QUOTE=BigBubba;1653457]How many days after does it take normally "I know floods can vary" but let's say a large flood to clear off enough to get around? Also I arrive Tuesday 9th in afternoon LOL airline didn't cancel as of yet so my concern is how to get from airport to QC if the flood or damage is bad.
Thanks.
Be.[/QUOTE]A challenging question and as you say, floods can vary.

I remember the Manila flooding in 2012, when a minor Cat 1 typhoon / tropical depression, that was hundreds of Km north of Luzon, caused extensive flooding in MM. If I remember correctly more than 1/4 of Manila was underwater, and pockets of flooding remained for more than 2 weeks. I was in ChangPing in China at the time, and even it was heavily affected by the amount of rain that was in this minor typhoon.

If the Pasig River floods very badly, then QC could be isolated from the rest of Manila for days.

I would recommend reading the local Manila news for up to date information.

Good luck,

Ikks.

P.S. Hagupit was an interesting choice of name for the typhoon!

[QUOTE=BigBubba;1653457]How many days after does it take normally "I know floods can vary" but let's say a large flood to clear off enough to get around? Also I arrive Tuesday 9th in afternoon LOL airline didn't cancel as of yet so my concern is how to get from airport to QC if the flood or damage is bad.

Thanks.

Be.[/QUOTE]Unfortunately BB there is no definitive answer to the flooding question. A heavy down pour can produce minor flooding that clears in a couple of hours. Sustained monsoonal storms, much longer (days).
Hagupit is forecast to continue to weaken & be downgraded to a tropical storm by Tuesday. The only problem is that it is zig zagging around over the PI's rather than tracking west as most Typhoons do eventually in this region. A LOT of rain.

Your biggest headache traversing to QC in the afternoon will be traffic congestion. Expect long long delays. If possible book into a hotel near to the airport & get a ride to QC in the early morning.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1653294]Well let's see. I grew up in the tropics. Cyclones & Typhoons are a fact of life. 'Downgraded' is a word you want to hear. 'Intensified' is not a word you want to hear. For the sake of the people in its path I'm hoping this storm continues to weaken & move slowly.

AV.[/QUOTE]As a native Floridian and former first responder (S&R) I too have a bit of experience of Trop Storm and Hurricaines / Typhoons. So I have to ask, are you daff? Slow moving is that last thing you want, not only when a storm moves slow does is dump more rain (= more flooding), but delays relief / rescue efforts too.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1653509]As a native Floridian and former first responder (S&R) I too have a bit of experience of Trop Storm and Hurricaines / Typhoons. So I have to ask, are you daff? Slow moving is that last thing you want, not only when a storm moves slow does is dump more rain (= more flooding), but delays relief / rescue efforts too.[/QUOTE]Thanks for your expert input Pip! I'm not an expert like you. I agree, flooding is the next misery to contend with. In my non expert life experience, usually if a system slows down & weakens that's generally a good thing as the ferocity of the thing is dissipating. That's a good thing no? In any event, it's rainy season, every system that passes through is going to dump water on us. I'm so happy to know its weakening to a Tropical Storm for the sake of my dear friends & employees in the area.

Cheers.

AV.

[QUOTE=BigBubba;1653457]How many days after does it take normally "I know floods can vary" but let's say a large flood to clear off enough to get around? Also I arrive Tuesday 9th in afternoon LOL airline didn't cancel as of yet so my concern is how to get from airport to QC if the flood or damage is bad.

Thanks.

Be.[/QUOTE]I can tell you that just after "Ondoy" it took 4 hours driving from airport to Makati. And once took 12 hours from Balintawak to Makati, which is a distance of about 15 kms.

After another more recent typhoon I was due to meet a girl and she's tells me the usual " I will be late". She sent me a pic of her in a boat explaining, " that's why sir".

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1653533]I can tell you that just after "Ondoy" it took 4 hours driving from airport to Makati. And once took 12 hours from Balintawak to Makati, which is a distance of about 15 kms.

After another more recent typhoon I was due to meet a girl and she's tells me the usual " I will be late". She sent me a pic of her in a boat explaining, " that's why sir".[/QUOTE]On as regular week day once it took 5 hours from Balintawag to Cubao.

Then 4 hours Cubao to Makati,. Agreed it was holy week processions all over.

Throw in a typhoon, miracles happen in Manila, just don't fix dates until You have reached the hotel!!

Again magically even during flooding cell phones work, never mind the land line systems are non existant.

I have a sneaky feeling Ruby will be as bad as Ondoy and of course nothing has been fixed no can it be fixed with squatters and landlords not cooperating. Only in Philippine s history will repeat itself.

Well I may delay a few days to go since it's all uncertain as of now I don't want to arrive at a connection flight find out I can't go further and be stuck at a hotel or sleeping in a airport bored out of my mind! Airline said I can cancel if I choose to also at no fee. But wtf I want out of reality for a couple weeks and do nothing I don't care if it's dealing with storm cleanup that's funner than the shit I deal with daily. I also am ex storm 1st resp Gen set mover so I know what a storm is like. All I think of is Katrina wtf that was a mess but I know this won't be that bad but still bad drainage system along with lot's of small debris blocking flow of water = headaches then I think CLEAN WATER where will I get that super valuable necessity. Safety and sleep are last of my concerns LOL that is freaking sad reading I worry more about water than safety LOL.

BTW airline customer service had no clue a storm was hitting really wtf it's only all over the world news.

The storm has just begun to affect Metro Manila, and at this point there is no definititive account of damages. So far, seven people have died, but it appears at the local governments in the Visayas did an effective job, evacuating about half a million people and averting a large scale tragedy. I've got so, e work to do in my Orrigas office this week so I'm going to try to get there on Wednesday from Davao, but for those with a more flexible schedule, I'd think that Thursday is about the earliest that Manila will return to normal.

GE.

[QUOTE=GoodEnough;1653842]The storm has just begun to affect Metro Manila, ......[/QUOTE]I am currently in Batangas, about 100 kms south of Manila and at this writing 640 AM local 8 Dec there is ony very light winds and overcast, so sign of an approaching storm and no sign of the locals doing any prep work for a storm.

Cloudy and cool in Dasma right now. 6:50 am Hope it stays like this all day.

[QUOTE=Slippery;1653854]Cloudy and cool in Dasma right now. 6:50 am Hope it stays like this all day.[/QUOTE]It's been steady rain here now in Ortigas Center in Manila since around 3 pm and as I look out my elevated condo window the visibility is severely reduced.

The eye of the storm which has been downgraded to a tropical storm will pass south of Manila around 8 pm and it is expected to drop a lot of rain on Metro Manila.

I just saw a plane go over though so some airlines are still flying.

I thought the CNN coverage yesterday (Sunday Phils time) was somewhat over the top and tried to make things more dramatic than they appeared to actually be. The weather reporters all seemed to have drunk way too much caffeine in their air conditioned Atlanta offices.

Rather remarkably, the local news service (ANC) gave a much more balanced and matter-of-fact coverage than CNN which is the exact opposite of the usual hysteria that local stations prefer to engage in.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1654006]It's been steady rain here now in Ortigas Center in Manila since around 3 pm and as I look out my elevated condo window the visibility is severely reduced.

The eye of the storm which has been downgraded to a tropical storm will pass south of Manila around 8 pm and it is expected to drop a lot of rain on Metro Manila.

I just saw a plane go over though so some airlines are still flying.

I thought the CNN coverage yesterday (Sunday Phils time) was somewhat over the top and tried to make things more dramatic than they appeared to actually be. The weather reporters all seemed to have drunk way too much caffeine in their air conditioned Atlanta offices.

Rather remarkably, the local news service (ANC) gave a much more balanced and matter-of-fact coverage than CNN which is the exact opposite of the usual hysteria that local stations prefer to engage in.[/QUOTE]Apparently there was a lot of flooding in Borongan, Eastern Samar. It's some distance to the south of Dolores, where Ruby made first landfall. Anyway, a good number of new fatalities have been reported in Borongan. If that's the case, then I would imagine that Dolores has some sad stories as well.

Has been some FRs on the economy (how bad it really it) and how many families really run the country (how rich they are compared with those they are supposed to serve). This from today's Inquirer was an interesting read on that subject as well as some of the writer's observations and conclusions.

Others with a greater knowledge of the country may disagree that it is 178 families.

[URL]http://opinion.inquirer.net/80808/the-few-who-control-our-country[/URL]

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1654976]Has been some FRs on the economy (how bad it really it) and how many families really run the country (how rich they are compared with those they are supposed to serve). This from today's Inquirer was an interesting read on that subject as well as some of the writer's observations and conclusions.

Others with a greater knowledge of the country may disagree that it is 178 families.

[URL]http://opinion.inquirer.net/80808/the-few-who-control-our-country[/URL][/QUOTE]Thanks Roger. A sloppy piece of journalism IMHO that mentions an unnamed study by a political scientist from DLS which wanders off into hyperbole. One can not disagree with the sentiments however. The contention that the situation is getting worse with respect to nepotism & corruption is difficult to argue with from the perspective of a foreigner who has been associated with the Philippines since only 2005. I had assumed it was always this way but locals say otherwise as does this journalist. I'm going to try to get hold of the paper as I'm very interested to read well researched material that may have a bearing on my future business decisions.

Wikipedia gives us a bio about the professor: [URL]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julio_C._Teehankee[/URL].

This is probably the paper referred to by the journo: [URL]https://www.academia.edu/7271285/And_the_Clans_Play_On[/URL].

Edit : here is the paper http://pcij.org/stories/and-the-clans-play-on/

From my personal perspective I would say that Filipino's are their own worst enemy. They are extremely tribal & lack critical thinking skills. This is as much a result of the tragically bad education system as it is a survival skill learned from a young age. In order to prosper here one learns that family, clan, connections are everything. The poor are in no place to question it & the rich are not going to 'shit in their own nest'.

Some say the only way their will be a change is if the country spirals into the ground & starts afresh but I don't think that's going to happen. There is too much Chinese, Korean & Japanese money flowing in to prop things up & preserve the status quo IMHO. From that perspective there's a good chance nepotism & cronyism will continue & indeed worsen. The intelligentsia & political activists are going to have little effect.

Landed oligarchy, corrupt land tenure system, corrupt judiciary, the more things change, the more they stay the same.


AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1655132]

From my personal perspective I would say that Filipino's are their own worst enemy. They are extremely tribal & lack critical thinking skills. This is as much a result of the tragically bad education system as it is a survival skill learned from a young age. In order to prosper here one learns that family, clan, connections are everything. The poor are in no place to question it & the rich are not going to 'shit in their own nest'.

Some say the only way their will be a change is if the country spirals into the ground & starts afresh but I don't think that's going to happen. There is too much Chinese, Korean & Japanese money flowing in to prop things up & preserve the status quo IMHO. From that perspective there's a good chance nepotism & cronyism will continue & indeed worsen. The intelligentsia & political activists are going to have little effect.

AV.[/QUOTE]They lack the political maturity to vote in people (barangay, city, federal) who might bring about sense, logic and efficiency and prefer to vote for a name or someone famous. Not to mention the free sardines and tshirts.

The rich continue to get richer, because they have the capital and deny capital to any business that might have a chance of growing. Ever try and get a business loan in the country, that was neither usurious, nor lengthy in application.

The church continues to hold sway over the denying them the right to reasonable information about such as sex education. Less babies = more chance for families to move from low to middle class. Thats not going to happen.

Nepotism and cronysim is well established, just see the never ending political dynasties. Elanor Binay, housewife, was voted into Makati as Mayor so the seat could remain in a Binay family name. How can the citizens of Makati vote for a housewife who prior to being mayor had never existed in a government function previously. Same for the gobby daughter who is now a senator.

The intelligentsia and a minority. The good Filipinos, those who are / would be, the middle class, and as such the bulwark of a society are residing in many far flung countries as hard working, hard remitting OFW's.

Well written Amavida.

Just a word to the wise for anyone going to / coming from T3.

I arrived very recently at around 5. 15 pm (a time I really dislike as at the best of times it is busy).

The queue for taxis spread the length of the terminal! There were no taxis available except the privateers who charge up to 2500 pesos for the same fixed fee 440 pesos (white taxi).

I found a driver and set off for Makati but. It took me 90+ minutes to get to Skyway! And then another 90 to the hotel.

Madness mainly caused by the roadworks around T3 coupled with some Christmas shoppers in the areas going to MOA.

Never in all my years of visiting Manila has it been that chaotic and atrocious. I had a meeting so I would have turned around and gone to Cebu immediately but I had no choice (as was very late for the meeting).

Now, at 3.30 am on the way back to T# I thought it would be easier. It was until we got off Skyway where there was the most ridiculous gridlock again caused by the roadworks. This time the taxi driver did a detour through Newport City and we came out to the roundabout by T3 and it was clear. The traffic in the jam was still crawling along.

So for anyone arriving / departing from T3 say between 4-8 pm you are warned.

I generally arrive early morning but this time I had no choice and I paid a price for it.

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1655377]Just a word to the wise for anyone going to / coming from T3. I arrived very recently at around 5. 15 pm (a time I really dislike as at the best of times it is busy). So for anyone arriving / departing from T3 say between 4-8 pm you are warned. I generally arrive early morning but this time I had no choice and I paid a price for it.[/QUOTE]Good warning WR. I go mental regarding "trappic" in Manila so I avoid it at almost all cost. Despite this I chose one 4 pm arrival by Emirates a few trips ago and the T3 arrival area was heavily populated and no taxis available. Even heavy waiting lines for mafia taxis charging 1700 piso to Makati. I tried as adviced here multiple times to walk upstairs to departure level but the like here so long as I could not see the end of it. Same situation arriving next time by KLM around 7 pm. Both time I ended up with Mafiataxi. Shit happens and they quote almost same as a hotel car anyway so no big deal.

When first in taxi it did not take as long as what you experienced so most of the travelling time was spend getting onto the skyway. Choosing 3 Makati exit proved to be fine both times and I just made the driver stop close to Holiday Inn and I walked from there to Ascott.

So only very late arrivals / very early departures from now on. Have been clocking the driver in under 15 min from T3 to Ascott arriving 5 am and sometimes same on return having a 6:25 am flight out.

I am always able to plan my arrival to Manila, Terminal 2, on a Sunday. Very little traffic, but on the last visit, no taxis in the line. Had the dispatcher call for a car, and the price was.

440 pesos to Holiday Inn, Glorietta 2. Of course, there was very little traffic, so that is the "usual" price when the dispatcher at the metered taxi line calls for an "unmarked taxi".

Second to last time I was at T3.

I waited 3. 5 hours.

Gave up and walk about 1/3 a mile to a road away from airport and caught a white in a few minutes.

In May it was a 2 hour wait.

Took twice for me to learn what to do there.

I've walked out to the road a few times. In my younger backpacker days I walked from the airport to Ermita.

I think the Huts has given a better possible alternative. Take the free bus to some nearby airport casino / resort / whatever, and then get a taxi from there. I tried this once and I'm not sure I saved any time. I enjoyed the change of scenery though.

I try to be more patient, but I get tired of waiting!

[QUOTE=JpSlicky;1655903]Second to last time I was at T3.

I waited 3. 5 hours.

Gave up and walk about 1/3 a mile to a road away from airport and caught a white in a few minutes.

In May it was a 2 hour wait.

Took twice for me to learn what to do there.[/QUOTE]

Looking for some info on transfers between terminals at NAIA. I've searched the web and NAIA website but there's not much out info there. I'm visiting PI Feb / Mar-15 and my journey out of PI will be Caticlan-Manila-Hong Kong in one day. I haven't booked flights yet but I'm sure the MPH-MNL will be into one terminal and MNL-HKG out of another.

Is there an inter-terminal transfer service and typically how long should I allow between flights?

[QUOTE=SonicBam;1656442]Looking for some info on transfers between terminals at NAIA. I've searched the web and NAIA website but there's not much out info there. I'm visiting PI Feb / Mar-15 and my journey out of PI will be Caticlan-Manila-Hong Kong in one day. I haven't booked flights yet but I'm sure the MPH-MNL will be into one terminal and MNL-HKG out of another.

Is there an inter-terminal transfer service and typically how long should I allow between flights?[/QUOTE]Have a look at: [URL]http://www.silent-gardens.com/air-transfer.php[/URL]#. VI2 CWdNdWMM.[/URL]

Traffic in Manila is a pain in the ass, so better add 2 or 3 hours to normal transfer times.

If it's raining a lot streets are flooded and not usable.

[QUOTE=SonicBam;1656442]Looking for some info on transfers between terminals at NAIA. I've searched the web and NAIA website but there's not much out info there. I'm visiting PI Feb / Mar-15 and my journey out of PI will be Caticlan-Manila-Hong Kong in one day. I haven't booked flights yet but I'm sure the MPH-MNL will be into one terminal and MNL-HKG out of another.

Is there an inter-terminal transfer service and typically how long should I allow between flights?[/QUOTE]Look at Cebu Pacific but allow time as all via Terminal 3 so no need to change terminal but you will need to get your bags. Be warned all budget airlines can be late so I would advise you take the earliest flight and hang around T3 or if time permits to Resorts World / Marriott across the road.

[QUOTE=SonicBam;1656442]Looking for some info on transfers between terminals at NAIA. I've searched the web and NAIA website but there's not much out info there. I'm visiting PI Feb / Mar-15 and my journey out of PI will be Caticlan-Manila-Hong Kong in one day. I haven't booked flights yet but I'm sure the MPH-MNL will be into one terminal and MNL-HKG out of another.

Is there an inter-terminal transfer service and typically how long should I allow between flights?[/QUOTE]I took the airport bus once, I think it cost like 20 pesos. It was in the morning and sat at the terminal for a long time before going to the next terminal. There were few other foreign travellers on the bus but most got frustrated with the wait and got off to get a taxi. Most of the people on the bus look like those that work at the airport. I want to say it took at least 30 min between terminals including the wait time but can't remember now.

[QUOTE=JoeMailde;1656462]Have a look at: http://www.silent-gardens.com/air-transfer.php[/QUOTE]Thanks, Joe, good web page. Thanks to the other guys as well. Booked flights all in and out of T3 so should be okay so long as the airlines don't change the terminals.

[QUOTE=XMan;1656433]I think the Huts has given a better possible alternative. Take the free bus to some nearby airport casino / resort / whatever, and then get a taxi from there. I tried this once and I'm not sure I saved any time. I enjoyed the change of scenery though.[/QUOTE]That's a fine option as long as traffic is not gridlocked and the shuttle busses are able to get in / out of the airport. Due to persistent flooding whenever there's a rainstorm and now the road construction, gridlock seems to be the cause for a lot of the delay in getting transport out of the airport. Last time I went thru MNL airport the roads were flooded, which cause severe gridlock and the taxi's were simply not able to get into the terminal in a timely fashion. Be nice if they ran the LR into the airport, hop onto the train and at least get out of the terminal to an area where you could get a taxi more easily.

I have been investigating the best way to transfer funds to finance my expenditure during my next trip.

Historically I have tended to rely on UK debit cards using them at ATM machines as at least an ATM card should give you the commercial exchange rate. That has become increasingly expensive as.

Most Phils banks no apply a 200 P fixed ATM charge for international cards with a maximum of 10-20 k PHP withdrawals. The only exceptions that I know of are the Citibank ATMs in Manila and Cebu. In the UK most banks are now charging 2-3% fees on overseas ATM withdrawals or purchases so you can often end up losing 5% plus on bank fees. I have a Phils bank account but transferring funds from the UK by bank transfer tends to be quite costly for fees and at a bad exchange rate, the fees / poor exchange rate offered by Western Union, PayPal and Worldremit etc also tends to run to 5% ish.

There are a number of newer funds transfer companies that have emerged put not many support PHP. One I have found that does is Transferwise. This allows me to transfer funds for a 1% charge at the mid market commercial exchange rate from a UK debit card to a Phils bank account taking around 3 working days to arrive. (The fee rates for transfers between most more actively traded currencies are 0.5%) For those planning a long trip to the Phils, property purchase or sponsoring a student etc this sounds a pretty good deal. Transferwise is most efficient for European currencies such as GBP, EUR, CHF, SEK etc, I think transfers from USD, AUD may incur some extra charges as they have to be routed via SWIFT.

Anybody got any better ways to transfer funds let me know?

If anyone wants to try Transferwise they have a referral program so if you copy and paste the following link you can get your first transfer (up to GBP3000) for free. (They will also credit me a free transfer if someone opens up an account through the link and actually does a transfer).

[URL]https://transferwise.com/u/59c9[/URL]

From the way the article reads it sounds like the dog was cooked for personal consumption by the dog's owner and some of his family/friends, but it makes me wonder just what really is on those BBQ sticks the street vendors sell, LOL.

[QUOTE]TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines Twenty-two persons were hospitalized after eating the meat of a sick dog in Galimuyod town in Ilocos Sur Saturday.

The owner of the dog identified only as Anton admitted that his pet was sick. Anton said the victims demanded that the dog be slaughtered.

Town police chief Senior Inspector Napoleon Eleccion Jr. said the victims cooked the meat for pulutan (finger food).

Eleccion said the hospital where the victims were taken has yet to release its findings on the cause of the poisoning.

The victims remained under observation as of yesterday. Authorities are considering filing of charges against the owner of the dog and the victims.[/QUOTE][URL]http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/12/15/1402650/dog-meat-downs-22[/URL]

[QUOTE=Toronto;1656495]I took the airport bus once, I think it cost like 20 pesos. It was in the morning and sat at the terminal for a long time before going to the next terminal. There were few other foreign travellers on the bus but most got frustrated with the wait and got off to get a taxi. Most of the people on the bus look like those that work at the airport. I want to say it took at least 30 min between terminals including the wait time but can't remember now.[/QUOTE]I've taken that shuttle a few times and if you're not in a hurry it's fine. It hits all the terminals.

[QUOTE=XMan;1656433]I've walked out to the road a few times. In my younger backpacker days I walked from the airport to Ermita.

I think the Huts has given a better possible alternative. Take the free bus to some nearby airport casino / resort / whatever, and then get a taxi from there. I tried this once and I'm not sure I saved any time. I enjoyed the change of scenery though.

I try to be more patient, but I get tired of waiting![/QUOTE]That's the Resorts World shuttle. I recall it runs every hour. If you're not encumbered with luggage you could try your luck crossing the street by foot from NAIA 3 - if you make it across lady luck is on your side surely, so hit the casino before grabbing a taxi. Looking at RW from NAIA 3 the taxi queue is at the far right side of the casino. Look for the Remington Hotel.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1656638]From the way the article reads it sounds like the dog was cooked for personal consumption by the dog's owner and some of his family/friends, but it makes me wonder just what really is on those BBQ sticks the street vendors sell, LOL.

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/12/15/1402650/dog-meat-downs-22[/URL][/QUOTE]I was eating my breakfast just now. I just lost my appetite. Grrrosss!

RG.

Gentlemen,

This is a repost from Mr. Harry's AC blog that's worth dissemination. It talks a lot about the violence toward foreigner's currently going on in Thailand. The article discusses a few topics that are much in parallel with the Philippines.

I've just returned from the Philippines myself, and I can relate to what the article says that the appearance of hospitality is a thin veneer. Just underneath that thin veneer is a feeling of contempt, especially from Filipino men.

Just for the record, though. I went for 11 days and had no problems at all. So I don't want to sound like "doom and gloom"....Just BE CAREFUL.

[URL]http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-2833369/Thailand-one-dangerous-tourist-destinations-Earth-Ex-pat-investigation-lifts-lid-dark-Land-Smiles.html[/URL]

This hot stuff sells, I'll say that. Haha, sells here!

[QUOTE=UncleVolodya;1656486]

I could not get the thought of hitting that sweet little pussy again bareback. But Jaycelyn was still asleep and I forced myself to get more sleep too. I woke up again an hour later and this time I was too horny to show restraint. I began to fondle Jaycelyn, starting with her neck and shoulder and then moving to her breasts and between her legs. She was receptive to my caresses, grabbing my raging hard stroking my raging hard on with her hands. We made out the whole time. I could not wait any longer. I spread her legs and entered her in mish. Her pussy was hot and moist and felt like heaven. We went through the whole gamut of positons. Mish, then her on top, then doggy, and finally back to mish. She was loving it. I lost all control and shot a huge load in her tight little pussy, staying inside her after I came to move in and out as we kissed tenderly. What a way to start the day!


Uncle-V.[/QUOTE]Especially this?

[QUOTE=UncleVolodya;1656486]

I lost all control and shot a huge load in her tight little pussy, staying inside her after I came to move in and out as we kissed tenderly. What a way to start the day!


Uncle-V.[/QUOTE]Might not be a good day for the bargirl, or maybe it could be her best day, gaining a sponsor for the next 18 years?

Is this to be encouraged? This is a ROD? Haha, not to me. Trashy romantic novella yes. A post with good intel for all to benefit from? I think not.

UV is a very wise and kind man who took the time to post a good TR w / pics. (Thank You) Good in a sense that he likes local people and treats people w / respect but there is not a lot of, "where, what, who, and how" ground intel.

For me the, "where, who and how" ground intel, written properly (not like me) constitutes RODs not TRs w / massive amounts of trivial bargirl small talk and cute observations about life. I'm glad it does it for so many here. "As the World Turns" I guess. Less is the new more, just like in the USA.

AND, no matter how much I want to I don't shoot sperm into a filipina's pussy, that's a mistake on many levels. A mistake we all make (from time to time) I assume, but should we glorify it?

So a little rain comes down on the crowd favorite. Haha, somebody's got to do it.

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1656511]Great FR; up for the ROD. The GFE thing -- great when it happens, ain't it?[/QUOTE]


Good warm hearted TR? Yes. ROD? No.

[QUOTE=Socker;1656928]UV is a very wise and kind man who took the time to post a good TR w / pics. (Thank You) Good in a sense that he likes local people and treats people w / respect but there is not a lot of, "where, what, who, and how" ground intel.[/QUOTE]I can live with that. I thought both of his posts were great. I can live without the intel if the story gives me a stiffie.

[QUOTE=Socker;1656928]AND, no matter how much I want to I don't shoot sperm into a filipina's pussy, that's a mistake on many levels. A mistake we all make (from time to time) I assume, but should we glorify it?[/QUOTE]One man's mistake, is another man's mission (mine).

[QUOTE=GregLondon;1656635]I have been investigating the best way to transfer funds to finance my expenditure during my next trip.

Historically I have tended to rely on UK debit cards using them at ATM machines as at least an ATM card should give you the commercial exchange rate. That has become increasingly expensive as.

Most Phils banks no apply a 200 P fixed ATM charge for international cards with a maximum of 10-20 k PHP withdrawals. The only exceptions that I know of are the Citibank ATMs in Manila and Cebu. In the UK most banks are now charging 2-3% fees on overseas ATM withdrawals or purchases so you can often end up losing 5% plus on bank fees. I have a Phils bank account but transferring funds from the UK by bank transfer tends to be quite costly for fees and at a bad exchange rate, the fees / poor exchange rate offered by Western Union, PayPal and Worldremit etc also tends to run to 5% ish.

There are a number of newer funds transfer companies that have emerged put not many support PHP. One I have found that does is Transferwise. This allows me to transfer funds for a 1% charge at the mid market commercial exchange rate from a UK debit card to a Phils bank account taking around 3 working days to arrive. (The fee rates for transfers between most more actively traded currencies are 0.5%) For those planning a long trip to the Phils, property purchase or sponsoring a student etc this sounds a pretty good deal. Transferwise is most efficient for European currencies such as GBP, EUR, CHF, SEK etc, I think transfers from USD, AUD may incur some extra charges as they have to be routed via SWIFT.

Anybody got any better ways to transfer funds let me know?

If anyone wants to try Transferwise they have a referral program so if you copy and paste the following link you can get your first transfer (up to GBP3000) for free. (They will also credit me a free transfer if someone opens up an account through the link and actually does a transfer).

[URL]https://transferwise.com/u/59c9[/URL][/QUOTE]All of these non bank services are a bit mickey mouse. For example, Transferwise claim on their website to support AUD but if you establish an account and try to send funds, AUD is no where to been seen. Xoom is (was?) a thing for Americans. You could try looking at Afex [URL]https://www.afex.com/[/URL] If you have a lot of money then banks give you a MUCH better deal, little people are screwed.

AV.

[QUOTE=WhatsUrName;1656833]Gentlemen,

This is a repost from Mr. Harry's AC blog that's worth dissemination. It talks a lot about the violence toward foreigner's currently going on in Thailand. The article discusses a few topics that are much in parallel with the Philippines.

I've just returned from the Philippines myself, and I can relate to what the article says that the appearance of hospitality is a thin veneer. Just underneath that thin veneer is a feeling of contempt, especially from Filipino men.

Just for the record, though. I went for 11 days and had no problems at all. So I don't want to sound like "doom and gloom"....Just BE CAREFUL.

[URL]http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-2833369/Thailand-one-dangerous-tourist-destinations-Earth-Ex-pat-investigation-lifts-lid-dark-Land-Smiles.html[/URL][/QUOTE]This 'article' is just an ad for a book. File under spam.

AV.

[QUOTE=GregLondon;1656635]I have been investigating the best way to transfer funds to finance my expenditure during my next trip. {S N I P}
Anybody got any better ways to transfer funds let me know?{S N I P}[/QUOTE]Open an HSBC Premier Account. Once you have one account you can very quickly open another Premier account at an HSBC branch in any other country.

Then, international transfers between HSBC accounts are instantaneous (via Global View on Internet Banking), totally free of any charges, and at the current exchange rate.

If you are concerned about commitments to maintain a certain balance in your initial Premier account, PM me and I will advise how to avoid this possible requirement.

Ikks.

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1657035]Open an HSBC Premier Account. Once you have one account you can very quickly open another Premier account at an HSBC branch in any other country.

Then, international transfers between HSBC accounts are instantaneous (via Global View on Internet Banking), totally free of any charges, and at the current exchange rate.

If you are concerned about commitments to maintain a certain balance in your initial Premier account, PM me and I will advise how to avoid this possible requirement.

Ikks.[/QUOTE]Need to be well funded to get one of those. Just sayin. He'll also need help on the Philippine end to establish an account there. They are pretty well useless with 'walk'ins' in the PI.

AV.

[QUOTE=Amavida;1657071]Need to be well funded to get one of those. Just sayin. He'll also need help on the Philippine end to establish an account there. They are pretty well useless with 'walk'ins' in the PI.
AV.[/QUOTE]You don't really need to have wads of cash to open an HSBC Premier Account. Ask if they have specials for new customers. Most branches do, and they typically offer 12 months before the minimum funding level needs to be achieved and maintained. If no specials are available, then say that your funds do not become available (from other investments) for say 3 or 6 months. They will always accept you as a Premier customer.

You can then open Premier accounts in other countries. You just need to give the details of your original HSBC account, and they will instantly open a new account for you. They will even give you your security device at the same time that you open your account (of course you need to be in-country to do this). You don't even need to wait for your plastic card as you can do all your banking via the internet.

If you do not achieve the minimum level of deposits in your original account by the due date, the bank will start charging a monthly fee (varies from country to country). Therefore you need to close your original account before this date. Your other accounts remain fully functional without the need to maintain any minimum level of deposits. I have even opened a new Premier account in a country after my original account was closed, simply by giving the details of my other accounts.

BTW I have found HSBC Premier staff in PI extremely well-trained and helpful (did you know the staff get unlimited sick leave on full pay?

Ikks.

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1657109]You don't really need to have wads of cash to open an HSBC Premier Account. They will always accept you as a Premier customer.

You can then open Premier accounts in other countries. You just need to give the details of your original HSBC account, and they will instantly open a new account for you. They will even give you your security device at the same time that you open your account (of course you need to be in-country to do this). You don't even need to wait for your plastic card as you can do all your banking via the internet.

If you do not achieve the minimum level of deposits in your original account by the due date, the bank will start charging a monthly fee (varies from country to country). Therefore you need to close your original account before this date. Your other accounts remain fully functional without the need to maintain any minimum level of deposits. I have even opened a new Premier account in a country after my original account was closed, simply by giving the details of my other accounts.

BTW I have found HSBC Premier staff in PI extremely well-trained and helpful (did you know the staff get unlimited sick leave on full pay?

Ikks.[/QUOTE]And they have quite nice restrooms for customers too, which is really helpful if you are in a jam in Singapore, or Jakarta, or Hong Kong.

All you got to do is flash that card.

Sick leave for Philippines is a bit of joke. All staff are entitled by law to something like 21-28 days sick leave depending on what the union negotiate. Not hard for staff to find a doctor on December 10th who will happily sign you a medical chit till year end. Happens every December in many countries. Just another employee headache to manage and one more reason its more fun in the phil etc.

[QUOTE=FreebieFan;1657122]Sick leave for Philippines is a bit of joke. All staff are entitled by law to something like 21-28 days sick leave depending on what the union negotiate. Not hard for staff to find a doctor on December 10th who will happily sign you a medical chit till year end. Happens every December in many countries. Just another employee headache to manage and one more reason its more fun in the phil etc.[/QUOTE]Was speaking with my cute waitress (who unfortunately (for some) heads off to the Arab world soon to work. Well better pay and conditions etc so can't blame her. But makes my Middle East trips more interesting LOL). She said most people are allowed 15 days sick and 15 days vacation (but am sure this depends on employer. In her case her hotel (employer) allows 3 days sick and 3 days vacation. Now that is disgraceful.

Is another reason she is going overseas as she gets 1 month holiday every year and tickets paid home plus medical etc (it may not be the greatest of packages for a western expat but for a 24 year old pinay it means she is rich).

[QUOTE=WestCoast1;1657013]
One man's mistake, is another man's mission (mine).[/QUOTE]This is good copy right here.

[QUOTE=Poopbunny;1657217]


Sow your seed often enough, someday, on your return trip, one of these street urchins begging for money from you, might just have your eyes.

[/QUOTE]Thanks Poopbunny.

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1657109]You don't really need to have wads of cash to open an HSBC Premier Account. Ask if they have specials for new customers. Most branches do, and they typically offer 12 months before the minimum funding level needs to be achieved and maintained. If no specials are available, then say that your funds do not become available (from other investments) for say 3 or 6 months. They will always accept you as a Premier customer.

You can then open Premier accounts in other countries. You just need to give the details of your original HSBC account, and they will instantly open a new account for you. They will even give you your security device at the same time that you open your account (of course you need to be in-country to do this). You don't even need to wait for your plastic card as you can do all your banking via the internet.

If you do not achieve the minimum level of deposits in your original account by the due date, the bank will start charging a monthly fee (varies from country to country). Therefore you need to close your original account before this date. Your other accounts remain fully functional without the need to maintain any minimum level of deposits. I have even opened a new Premier account in a country after my original account was closed, simply by giving the details of my other accounts.

BTW I have found HSBC Premier staff in PI extremely well-trained and helpful (did you know the staff get unlimited sick leave on full pay?

Ikks.[/QUOTE]I'm no longer a customer so I was speaking in retrospect. Thanks for confirming things have improved. Those gymnastics you describe may depend on the good will / gullibility of the staff on the day. Unlimited sick leave? That's unheard of in the Phils! Seriously?

AV.

After lurking here long enough, and trying to decide on a vacation somewhere, I was trying to find reasonable flights to various places for various kinds of vacations.

I was curious about a $1300 flight to Manila. When Orbitz suddenly told me it found a better deal and gave me a flight from the Midwest to Manila for $740. Impulse purchase.

Of course, I'll be spending some time in AC, but I also will be doing research about back country adventuring. Hiking, backpacking, even some camping.

If anyone on these boards is going to be in AC on Jan 13th-14th (when I arrive) and doesn't mind saying 'Hi' to a newb, that would be awesome. I haven't completely done my homework, but if anyone has suggestions for non-sexy-time activities, I'm keen on hearing them as well!

Cathay Pacific -JFK New York to Manila $987 with a 3 day stop over in HK on the way back. Cathay by far is best on this route. Rate was booked on their website.

0:50 JFK departure arrive HK 05:00. Take shower in HK Terminal. 07:30 flight to Manila arrive Manila 09:00. Van, Driver and 2 Girls from Arizona Subic pick us up in Manila. 12:30 sitting on Floating Bar having a blast.

[QUOTE=RandMcNasty;1657508]After lurking here long enough, and trying to decide on a vacation somewhere, I was trying to find reasonable flights to various places for various kinds of vacations.

I was curious about a $1300 flight to Manila. When Orbitz suddenly told me it found a better deal and gave me a flight from the Midwest to Manila for $740. Impulse purchase.

Of course, I'll be spending some time in AC, but I also will be doing research about back country adventuring. Hiking, backpacking, even some camping.

If anyone on these boards is going to be in AC on Jan 13th-14th (when I arrive) and doesn't mind saying 'Hi' to a newb, that would be awesome. I haven't completely done my homework, but if anyone has suggestions for non-sexy-time activities, I'm keen on hearing them as well![/QUOTE]Wow that is a great price RM. What is the duration of the flight and what airlines? As for non-sexy activities in AC I suppose the mall is an option. I saw a golf course not too far away. Bagio and Subic are probably over-nighters. Lots of cutie DIA girls in AC apart from the bar scene.

[QUOTE=Mongerer69;1657561]Cathay Pacific -JFK New York to Manila $987 with a 3 day stop over in HK on the way back. Cathay by far is best on this route. Rate was booked on their website.

0:50 JFK departure arrive HK 05:00. Take shower in HK Terminal. 07:30 flight to Manila arrive Manila 09:00. Van, Driver and 2 Girls from Arizona Subic pick us up in Manila. 12:30 sitting on Floating Bar having a blast.[/QUOTE]To Mongerer69.

Yes fare is dropping fast United and Korean air already have fare from SFO to Manila for around 820 usd w stop in HK and Incheon with fuel price keep falling, I don't think you will see 600 usd fare like back in 1995 anymore.

Fast eddie 48.

If you guys are flying via HKG, consider Tiger or DragonAir from HKG to Clark. Lands you directly into the action, many AC hotels have free pickup, and you also avoid MNL airport and the extra 2-3 drive.

(Caution: If your airline tix is booked to MNL then you need to use those sectors to meet your fare rules. )

[QUOTE=BrainDrain;1657743]If you guys are flying via HKG, consider Tiger or DragonAir from HKG to Clark. Lands you directly into the action, many AC hotels have free pickup, and you also avoid MNL airport and the extra 2-3 drive.

(Caution: If your airline tix is booked to MNL then you need to use those sectors to meet your fare rules. )[/QUOTE]To BrainDrain.

The fare is too high now tiger have cheap fare before only 55 usd from HK to Clark one way arrive after Midnight fare is a lot higher now, you can also go to Macau and fly Cebu Pacific to Clark cheap if you are flying Cathay Pacific from the US you can connected with Dragon air in HKG on a 7 am flight to clark only one flight a day but cathay have 6 flight a day to Manila.

Fast eddie 48.

[QUOTE=RandMcNasty;1657508]After lurking here long enough, and trying to decide on a vacation somewhere, I was trying to find reasonable flights to various places for various kinds of vacations.

I was curious about a $1300 flight to Manila. When Orbitz suddenly told me it found a better deal and gave me a flight from the Midwest to Manila for $740. Impulse purchase.

Of course, I'll be spending some time in AC, but I also will be doing research about back country adventuring. Hiking, backpacking, even some camping.

If anyone on these boards is going to be in AC on Jan 13th-14th (when I arrive) and doesn't mind saying 'Hi' to a newb, that would be awesome. I haven't completely done my homework, but if anyone has suggestions for non-sexy-time activities, I'm keen on hearing them as well![/QUOTE]Welcome and great deal on your flight. You didn't mention how long you're here for or where else you plan or would like to travel to, but the below link should give a rough idea of some non-mongering activities in the AC area;.

[URL]http://www.margaritastation.com/whats_on.html[/URL]

[QUOTE=Amavida;1657347]I'm no longer a customer so I was speaking in retrospect. Thanks for confirming things have improved. Those gymnastics you describe may depend on the good will / gullibility of the staff on the day. Unlimited sick leave? That's unheard of in the Phils! Seriously?

AV.[/QUOTE]All steps are in accordance with bank's policies, procedures and SOPs. No luck or brown nosing required! I would not describe the simple process of opening a few bank accounts as gymnastics. The only extra step is closing one account, which can be done online if one has a printer and scanner.

Actually I believe the sick leave policy is world-wide. Anyway, brother of ex-wife worked for HSBC in PI for 16 years. He injured his back cycling and spent 10 months off work on full pay. So, seriously? [B]Yes![/B] And BTW, I did not use him to assist opening my HSBC Premier accounts.

Ikksman
[SUP][i]"No need to expose fools. They expose themselves!"[/i][/SUP]

[QUOTE=DCups;1657587]Wow that is a great price RM. What is the duration of the flight and what airlines? As for non-sexy activities in AC I suppose the mall is an option. I saw a golf course not too far away. Bagio and Subic are probably over-nighters. Lots of cutie DIA girls in AC apart from the bar scene.[/QUOTE]Flying United and Cathay both ways. The duration isn't on my email confirmation, but the layovers in Newark and Hong Kong on the way out, and Hong Kong and San Fran on the way back, are minimal. Total travel time is around or under 24 hours.

I'm almost certainly going to check out Subic. I also will be heading to Pinatubo, as well as the Bataan Nature park. I have almost 2 weeks to burn!

So far, at least for my first stay in AC, I'm going to check out the new CP Tower since it sounds like the price is right. I'm sure I'll be booking at least one night in ABC though.

I need to research how to do the DIA thing.

[QUOTE=PipJaeger;1657751]Welcome and great deal on your flight. You didn't mention how long you're here for or where else you plan or would like to travel to, but the below link should give a rough idea of some non-mongering activities in the AC area;.

[URL]http://www.margaritastation.com/whats_on.html[/URL][/QUOTE]Spending almost 2 weeks, which should be plenty of time! Thanks for the link! I was already planning on Pinatubo, as well as Bataan. Looks like I'll be doing Arayat as well as the hot springs!

I may try to get a DIA girl because some company on these trips may be fun, though I'm quite used to doing stuff on my own, and sometimes that is best.

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1657770]All steps are in accordance with bank's policies, procedures and SOPs. No luck or brown nosing required! I would not describe the simple process of opening a few bank accounts as gymnastics. The only extra step is closing one account, which can be done online if one has a printer and scanner.

Actually I believe the sick leave policy is world-wide. Anyway, brother of ex-wife worked for HSBC in PI for 16 years. He injured his back cycling and spent 10 months off work on full pay. So, seriously? [B]Yes![/B] And BTW, I did not use him to assist opening my HSBC Premier accounts.

Ikksman
[SUP][i]"No need to expose fools. They expose themselves!"[/i][/SUP][/QUOTE]Its not experience of Makati branch of HSBC but glad to hear things have improved. What's with the sig?

AV.

[QUOTE=Ikksman;1657770]All steps are in accordance with bank's policies, procedures and SOPs. No luck or brown nosing required! I would not describe the simple process of opening a few bank accounts as gymnastics. The only extra step is closing one account, which can be done online if one has a printer and scanner.

Actually I believe the sick leave policy is world-wide. Anyway, brother of ex-wife worked for HSBC in PI for 16 years. He injured his back cycling and spent 10 months off work on full pay. So, seriously? [B]Yes![/B] And BTW, I did not use him to assist opening my HSBC Premier accounts.
[/QUOTE]Note that HSBC branches, though connected to the mother group in London and HK, are actually country-based franchises.

The Philippines HSBC is subject to Philippines banking laws, so you are only protected by the maximum insurable limit for depositors (currently 500,000 php) through the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC).

I first ran into this potential problem of variable expectations of services when I was in Hanoi and discovered that the specific services from HSBC that I enjoyed in Manila were not replicated in Vietnam because it is a different franchise.

Just be careful in assuming that the status quo in one country transfers to others, even if HSBC markets itself as a global brand. Read the fine print.

Has anyone tried and possibly had success using Tinder either here or in other mongering locations? I'm curious. One would think it could be an ideal way, particularly if you are looking for a not-so-pro who is look for extra funds and companionship. I haven't heard it mentioned at least here, in favor of more established dating sites like DIA, etc.

Saw the US Ambassador on TV last night. Lots of noise due to the US serviceman, transgender, VFA, EDCA and whether the guy should be in Philippine custody or USS hands (so far USA are keeping the serviceman in their hands). Ambassador was calm and polite about the reasons. Then he said what this article says. As always it is not what they say but want is inferred as he said this in context of the US servicemen currently held in a container someone on a military base.

The actual event was captured and CCTV and is on You Tube also (ie the other guys murder). The 4 guys are sons of very wealthy people so it is said and the 'convictions' were not mentioned in the press until now, until the Ambassador said it in the TV interview. One of the accused fathers said he would write to the President as his son was being locked up with bad people LOL.

[URL]http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/12/19/1404271/what-about-murder-marine-bel-air[/URL]

The interviewer was trying to be nice and maybe did not pick up on the subtle reference he made IMHO about this and the current issue around the US servicemen.

[QUOTE=RedKilt;1657851]Note that HSBC branches, though connected to the mother group in London and HK, are actually country-based franchises.



I first ran into this potential problem of variable expectations of services when I was in Hanoi and discovered that the specific services from HSBC that I enjoyed in Manila were not replicated in Vietnam because it is a different franchise.

Just be careful in assuming that the status quo in one country transfers to others, even if HSBC markets itself as a global brand. Read the fine print.[/QUOTE]Yes not many know, although quite a few have found out by trial and error this strange situation, whereby a bank that is viewed as a global bank isn't anything like it, but a collection of national banks all using the same marketing, images, and taglines. The service certainly does vary from country. Buyer beware.

I just finished a short post (in the Manila thread) and took a look at another poster's history. LOL.

Some posters here, some members HERE leave a lot to be desired. They have a lot to comment on but it is always about SOMEONE ELSE and not what they (themselves) produce. LOL.

AND NOW......I just want to acknowledge them for what they are worth. NOT FUCKING MUCH!

LOL. okay, here's the other part.

These are the men here on ISG.

Cunning Stunt, Wicked Roger, West Coast, (the great one) Asian Rain, Pip J, Sid70, Rubio and others like Kaintuck, HotShane, Bkkdog, Pipe Layer99.

The Indonesia Forum has awesome mongers, Offshore Swell, Koperen Karel, Egy Monger, Smoothy.

PROS! ALL OF THEM, AWESOME!

All these guys have given their best. The newer guys, Hard Hat Mate, Hihi Ster, Sea Traveler, Somewhere15 etc etc are kicking ass as well.

Great TR's with the hot chic pics from all the above, MOTHERFUCKER the way it should be!!!!!!!!

These are the guys that make this board great and I mean great.

I won't knock the deadbeats, (anymore lol) only thank the bad motherfuckers that make the world go round so nicely, LOL!

I'm sorry I missed a few good posters, and I'm sure I left a few out. The guys above know who delivers and who DOES NOT!

TRUTH TOOOO TRUTH.

It was a great 2014!!! I hope you're all happy, healthy. and ready, 2015 here we gooooooooo!!!!!!!

[QUOTE=WickedRoger;1658200]Saw the US Ambassador on TV last night. Lots of noise due to the US serviceman, transgender, VFA, EDCA and whether the guy should be in Philippine custody or USS hands (so far USA are keeping the serviceman in their hands). Ambassador was calm and polite about the reasons.
SNIP
The interviewer was trying to be nice and maybe did not pick up on the subtle reference he made IMHO about this and the current issue around the US servicemen.[/QUOTE]Quite right WR, my take on what he said was an inference, or diplo speak if you will, that if the Filipino justice system can hand down a light sentence for homicide (which is what would be called "Voluntary Manslaughter" for Pemberton's case in the USA), then he expects a similar sentence to be imposed on Pemberton, should he be convicted.

In addition, I think he was sending a message to the media as to how bias they are with respect to their coverage about the cases.

If you're looking for something different to do today, 20 Dec, check out the Rakrakan music festival in Makati. Seventy bands. That's right. Seven zero bands. Three stages. Fourteen hours of entertainment. 300 pesos; 400 at the door. That's right. Not a typo. And that includes 1 Red Horse. Plus a view of the Pasig River. What's not to like? Oh, you want more? Okie dokie. If you use the grabtaxi app you'll get p150 back. So, you get a beer and practically free transpo for p300 - it's basically a free day. It kicks off at 2 pm.

It's my achilles heel.

I will amend my irrational (exuberant) post below by saying all posters regardles of pics (or no pics) add a great deal to the PI Forum.

I humbly thank everyone for the help I receive and I receive a lot.

Merry Cristmas and Happy New Year.

Since I'm planning to be in the Philippines in February, I have a couple of concerns. I have a friend who recently (last week) was in Manila and Angels City and he told me the traffic was a reason he wouldn't return there. While I will visit Cebu and a friend there, on my way home I plan to visit Manila. But have concerns. Since many of you guys say good things about Mania, what did he do wrong about the traffic. Is there a better time to use a taxi? He stayed near the Mall of Asia. I will either try that are or maybe go to the Makakti area, as a fine member here told me good things about it. Just thinking what and where would be suggestions for just a 3-4 day stop in the Manila area and would it be worth with this time constraint to go on to Angeles City, which he seemed to like more. Please advise me with your infinite experience and wisdom.

[QUOTE=RumBuddy;1658562]Since I'm planning to be in the Philippines in February, I have a couple of concerns. I have a friend who recently (last week) was in Manila and Angels City and he told me the traffic was a reason he wouldn't return there. While I will visit Cebu and a friend there, on my way home I plan to visit Manila. But have concerns. Since many of you guys say good things about Mania, what did he do wrong about the traffic. Is there a better time to use a taxi? He stayed near the Mall of Asia. I will either try that are or maybe go to the Makakti area, as a fine member here told me good things about it. Just thinking what and where would be suggestions for just a 3-4 day stop in the Manila area and would it be worth with this time constraint to go on to Angeles City, which he seemed to like more. Please advise me with your infinite experience and wisdom.[/QUOTE]Instead of directing you to RTFF I will in the spirit of the upcoming x mas say that avoiding traffic is all about timing your arrival into Manilas NAIA airport. Traffic seems to ease up around 8-9 pm in the eve and stays relatively light until 6 - 6:30 am. Atleast I hate the traffic so I mostly time my arrivals / departures within the timewindow I just gave you. Then you should be able to get your ass down to MOA in a breeze. I have also arrived around 2 pm T3 and had relatively easy rides (timewice) to Makati. Must have beat the upcoming horrendous rush hours.

Regarding if you want to choose AC over Manila or both beats me as I never been or never will go AC (I don't hunt hookers). I have more than enough fun in Makati. I am sure other punters will be of different opinion and give you some heads up.

[QUOTE=Skogis;1658578]Instead of directing you to RTFF I will in the spirit of the upcoming x mas say that avoiding traffic is all about timing your arrival into Manilas NAIA airport. Traffic seems to ease up around 8-9 pm in the eve and stays relatively light until 6 - 6:30 am. Atleast I hate the traffic so I mostly time my arrivals / departures within the timewindow I just gave you. Then you should be able to get your ass down to MOA in a breeze. I have also arrived around 2 pm T3 and had relatively easy rides (timewice) to Makati. Must have beat the upcoming horrendous rush hours.

Regarding if you want to choose AC over Manila or both beats me as I never been or never will go AC (I don't hunt hookers). I have more than enough fun in Makati. I am sure other punters will be of different opinion and give you some heads up.[/QUOTE]Thanks for your reply, I will RTFF, but I wanted a quick response on recent feelings. I think I may just stay in Manila, possibly Makati. I'd rather just meet the Philippine people and ladies of course.

Adding to what Skogis said, there are three things you can do adapt to traffic. Firstly, stay in an area where you intend to monger. If you're the type of guy who wants dating site girls to come to you MOA is not a bad spot. It's a clean, safe location that doesn't scare women, dissuading them to visit. Plenty of nice hotels and condos. You have bar options right there on the Manila Bay and at Blue Wave. Many dining options. A couple of casinos. Easy to / from NAIA. And it's not too far from Edsa Entertainment complex. But if you intend to spend a lot of time at LA Cafe, Burgos or Havana then MOA isn't the best-suited location. Secondly, it's best to travel the city at night, the later the better. I usually don't leave my place until after 11 pm. If you're the type of guy who wants to hit bars at 7 pm you'll want to stay near them. Lastly, your attitude when stuck in traffic will largely determine your hapenis.

You can make all the adjustments and still find yourself in gridlock. If this is something that shall wilt your hapenis then AC is a better option. You just have to deal with the traffic to/from there.

[QUOTE=RumBuddy;1658562]Since I'm planning to be in the Philippines in February, I have a couple of concerns. I have a friend who recently (last week) was in Manila and Angels City and he told me the traffic was a reason he wouldn't return there. While I will visit Cebu and a friend there, on my way home I plan to visit Manila. But have concerns. Since many of you guys say good things about Mania, what did he do wrong about the traffic. Is there a better time to use a taxi? He stayed near the Mall of Asia. I will either try that are or maybe go to the Makakti area, as a fine member here told me good things about it. Just thinking what and where would be suggestions for just a 3-4 day stop in the Manila area and would it be worth with this time constraint to go on to Angeles City, which he seemed to like more. Please advise me with your infinite experience and wisdom.[/QUOTE]What trafffic? At the end of it, I find myself in a warm wet place multiple times. Traffic is all forgotten.

On 3-4 days trying to get around Manila in taxis, you'll become very frustrated. It's not only the taxis. Its the extortionist drivers too that refuse to use the meters and want to charge you 500 php for a 170 php ride. Take notice that they're now also doing armed robberies on their customers.

I've lived in and around Manila now for 2 years and the taxi situation has gotten absurd. This entire megalopolis has become so ridiculously absurd for traveling in, I've resigned myself to move elsewhere in the country. A good example is that it's probably about 60 total miles from where I live to Angeles. Two weeks ago the trip took 6. 5 hours!!

I don't know what time you're getting into Manila, but if you check out the AC thread, you'll see that many hotels there have private cars that will pick you up at your terminal in Manila and drive you to AC lickity split. You'll be doing yourself a favor. Once in AC you can walk or trike.

I just can't stress how bad the traffic and taxi situation has become, particularly around NAIA. I've been to some pretty bad airports. NAIA is continually rated as one of the worst in the world. The deplorable, corrupt and criminal taxi situation there has made it the worst destination I've ever flown into. Need I say anymore?