Thinking About Moving to the Philippines? More things to consider

Cost of Living

The cost of living in the Philippines is generally lower compared to Western countries. According to Expats dot com, for a family of four, monthly expenses can be around One hundred twenty thousand pesos, while a single person might spend about fifty thousand. At today’s conversion rate, fifty thousand pesos is just less than nine hundred dollars. These numbers, costs and comparisons depend upon the lifestyle that you choose to live.

Major cities like Manila and Cebu have higher living costs, but they are still more affordable than many cities in the US, UK, or Australia. For instance, it is estimated that living in Manila is 55% cheaper than in Virginia Beach, USA.

 

Culture

Filipino culture is rich and diverse, influenced by a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and American traditions. Family is central to Filipino life, and gatherings often revolve around food and celebrations. Filipinos are known for their hospitality, resilience, and strong community spirit, often referred to as bayanihan. The Philippines also boasts the longest Christmas season, starting as early as September when decorations start popping up everywhere.

 

Language

The Philippines is home to over 130 languages, with Filipino, based on Tagalog and English as the official languages. English is widely spoken, making it easier for expatriates to communicate and integrate. Laws and legal processes are written and conducted in English. Regional languages like Cebuano and Ilocano are also prevalent, reflecting the country's linguistic diversity.

 

Religion

As the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia, over 80% of Filipinos identify as Roman Catholic. There is also a significant Muslim population, especially in Mindanao, and various Protestant denominations. Religious festivals and church activities play a significant role in daily life.

 

Transportation

Transportation in the Philippines includes iconic jeepneys, buses, tricycles, and a developing rail system in Metro Manila. While public transport is affordable, traffic congestion can be challenging, especially in urban areas. The country has numerous airports, facilitating domestic and international travel.

 

Medical Assistance and Health Care

The healthcare system in the Philippines is a mix of public and private services. Public hospitals focus on primary care, while private hospitals offer specialized services. The Universal Health Care Law ensures that all Filipinos have access to healthcare services under PhilHealth, the national insurance program. Medical costs are generally lower compared to Western countries, and the country is emerging as a medical tourism destination. Tourists and temporary visitors sometimes purchase short term travelers’ medical insurance that includes airfare back to their home countries in the event of an extreme medical emergency,

 

Crime

The crime rate in the Philippines is believed to have decreased in recent years, with significant improvements under the current administration. While petty crimes can occur, especially in crowded areas, violent crime rates are relatively low. It's essential to stay informed about local safety advisories and exercise common precaution.

 

Politics

The political landscape in the Philippines is complex, shaped by a history of colonialism, dictatorship, and democratic transitions. The country operates under a presidential system with three branches of government: executive, legislative, and judicial. Here, we'll explore some key political dynamics and issues facing the nation today.

 

Political Structure

 

Executive Branch

The President of the Philippines serves as both the head of state and government, elected for a six-year term without the possibility of re-election. President, Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., took office in 2022. The Vice President, elected separately, is Sara Duterte, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

 

Legislative Branch

The bicameral Congress consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Senators serve six-year terms, while House members are elected for three years.

 

Judicial Branch

The judiciary is formally independent, with the Supreme Court as the highest body. However, according to some reports, there are concerns about its independence due to political influences and corruption.

 

Current Political Issues

 

1. Human Rights and Governance

The Philippines faces significant human rights challenges, including extrajudicial killings, particularly related to the controversial "war on drugs" initiated by former President Duterte. While President Marcos Jr. has shown a more measured approach, issues persist.

 

2. Political Corruption

According to the BTI Transformation Index, corruption remains a problem, affecting various levels of government. The judiciary is sometimes criticized for being susceptible to bribery, which undermines the rule of law.

 

3. Geopolitical Tensions

The Philippines' territorial disputes in the South China Sea, particularly with China, continue to be a critical issue. According to reports from the Atlantic Council, the country's foreign policy has seen shifts, with Marcos Jr. moving closer to the United States, contrasting with Duterte's previous pro-China stance.

 

4. Media and Freedom of Expression

According to reports from the East Asia Forum, freedom of the press is under threat, with increased attacks on journalists and media outlets. The rise of social media has also led to the spread of misinformation and political propaganda.

 

5. Political Parties

The political party system in the Philippines is often criticized for being personality-driven rather than policy-oriented. According to the Asian News Network, parties tend to be transient and lack strong ideological foundations, which affects their ability to implement long-term policies.

 

Political Landscape and Future Outlook

Elections and political maneuvering typically play a significant role in shaping the Philippines' future. The country's political scene is characterized by a vibrant civil society and contested elections, but elite control and human rights issues remain significant challenges.

 

As the Philippines navigates these complexities, the role of political parties, civil society, and international partnerships will be crucial in fostering a more stable and democratic political environment. Tourists and visitors may wish to steer clear of involvement in political affairs.

 

Regional Comparison

The over seven thousand islands that make up the entirety of the country are separated into three general geographic areas: the Northernmost area of Luzon, the Central Visayas, and the Southern region of Mindanao.

 

Luzon 

Luzon is the home to the capital, Manila.Luzon is an economic and political hub. It offers urban conveniences and historical sites like Intramuros. Baguio and Tagaytay are popular for their cooler climates.

 

Visayas

The Visayas area is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant festivals. Popular Islands in the Visayas include Cebu, Bohol and many other islands. The region is a mix of urban and rural settings, offering a laid-back lifestyle with modern amenities.

 

Mindanao

The southern are of Mindanao is rich in natural resources, Mindanao is less developed but offers opportunities for adventure and investment. Cities like Davao are known for safety and cleanliness, while areas like Cagayan de Oro are growing economically.

Each region offers unique experiences, from the bustling city life in Luzon to the serene beaches in Visayas and the adventurous landscapes of Mindanao.

 

Conclusion

The Philippines is a captivating destination for those looking to relocate.

With its affordable cost of living, rich culture, and welcoming communities, it offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Whether you're drawn to the vibrant city life or the tranquil island setting, the Philippines has something for everyone.

 

Citations:

 

https://expats.com

https://typeset.io/questions/what-are-the-top-political-issues-facing-the-philippines-in-2jrbry3xfu

https://asianews.network/transforming-the-philippine-political-landscape/

https://bti-project.org/en/reports/country-report/PHL

https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/blogs/new-atlanticist/the-philippines-domestic-politics-are-the-wildcard-in-its-trilateral-partnership-with-the-us-and-japan/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government_of_the_Philippines

https://eastasiaforum.org/2024/01/19/politics-and-press-under-pressure-in-the-philippines/

https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2024/country-chapters/philippines