Discovering DAVAO CITY: Love at First Sight or Not Quite?

[@joelpeet]

Hi John. I'm living in Davao since 2012 (so, quite a long time now). Coming from Brussels, Europe, I had kind of a cultural shock. Yet, giving a little bit of time, Davao City grew on me. I agree with each point you make in your video... the one which is the most annoying is probably the time it takes to move from one point to the other in the city. 😊 This being said, in the 12 years I'm here, I saw this city grow fast, developing infrastructure at a speedy pace, road work all over the place (still continuing), administration being simplified and made easier by the increasing use of online services. Of course there is still a lot to do, but considering that Davao WAS generally, and for a long time, seen in Manila and Cebu as a provincial city far far away in Mindanao by expats, and sometimes Filipinos, this city is booming. Plus Davao City is huge in surface, bigger even than Manila (something like 10x bigger) but still mostly undevelopped. So, still a lot to do here... that's probably why many think, me included, that the future is more in Davao than Manila or Cebu (simply by the incredible size of this place and the possibilities it gives for economic development.. but again, that's the future). There will be high and lows, no doubt. Probably few set-backs as well, but if I had to bet on the decades to come I really think Davao will become the place to be for economic, financial and IT development. Dabawenos are willing, hard working, welcoming... and a young population in regards of other places. Now, all of this is nice, but like many other expats who already told you, I will just ask you not to talk too much about it to other expats lol 😀😀

[@NotilangPinoy]

I have been to Davao, The Market is cheaper than Manila. It's cleaner than the Manila. I love Davao.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I agree. Thank you for sharing.

[@ruthagbong5156]

Yes we proud a Davawenyo

[@jigarooonthego5015]

I like Davao City than any other cities in the Philippines. It has a balance of urban living experience. Thank you for sharing this video.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

So far in my experience I agree. There is a lot I like about Cebu City and Manila has a lot to offer. But I feel very comfortable in Davao City

[@HemiChrysler]

_more_ ?

[@kdlkg]

The city is so big, you travel for an hour and u r still inside Davao city. This is the reason why it is more spread out than other smaller cities.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Yes very true

[@roamaroundgisg7362]

U actually travel 2.5hrs and ur still inside the Davao city. Lol.

[@JohnSmuloTV]

@@roamaroundgisg7362 LOL true it's a big area

[@firesome11]

It's Davao City and we are not yet talking about the newly formed Metro Davao.

[@cresenteayo3638]

Yes correct big area. Mountains of calinan district 2 hrs distant still in city.

[@Jorj.2024]

I like Davao City. It is the place where I was born. Cant wait to come home

[@DearANNIE28]

Thank you for your genuine and positive comments about my city. Your kind words truly highlight the beauty and authenticity that make it special. 😉

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for your kind comment Annie. I enjoy your videos.

[@gv2035]

I live in Davao and all the things you said are spot on! I am Filipino who is married to an American. I grew up in Manila and lived in the US. My husband and I decided to retire here for all the positive points you said. I must say that Davao has exceeded my expectations. It is not perfect by any means but has the right balance of urban and provincial pace that works for me. As to those who think that terrorism may be a problem here, all I can say is I cannot live in fear. Also Davao's track record speaks for itself. End of story. I enjoy your videos! And I am glad you are enjoying your new hometown.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I really appreciate you sharing your thoughts and experience. I'm glad to hear you guys have enjoyed Davao City as much as I have. Life is here 😊

[@yukio5419]

Davao citygovt maintains a dobstantial budget fir confidential funds to guard the city from terrorism and other crimes. there are miliyary checkpoints setup in highways once busee and cars enter the city...not perfect yes, but peace safety and order is a high priority by the local govt

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@yukio5419 Thank you for sharing more. Davao City government seems very proactive and well planned out

[@gv2035]

@WatchCaliforniaExpat You had offered for meet up with my husband and I on your most recent video. I apologize for replying here but somehow my replies have disappeared. So YES we would like to meet up with you. I found your FB page and sent you a message in Messenger. Not sure if that account is still active. Anyway, can I get your email address? We can communicate there directly. We are looking forward to meeting you. 🙂

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@gv2035 I'm happy to hear that. My email is [e-mail]. I'll check Facebook too.

[@jerryscary6473]

Thank you for having a 2nd office here in Davao City which is The Philippines Safest City 🤗💪🙏❤️

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

My pleasure. Thank you for your support 😊🙏

[@donmar1117]

HI Sir, I'm from Davao City. Thank you so much for your honest opinion about Davao City. GOD Bless.....

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for your support sir.

[@juvelagahit7871]

Thank you for your appreciation the life and living in DAVAO CITY. The safest place in Philippines

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Walay sapayan. Thank you for watching and commenting

[@juvelagahit7871]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat dili ko rin kayang ipagpalit ang Davao over Cebu nor Manila, in Davao you can rest relax and enjoy especially during your retirement period, sometimes i invite my American friends to live and stay DAVAO CITY as retirement place. ❤️

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@juvelagahit7871 For sure its a great City to retire. As for me, I'm still working for now.

[@kitkatz9984]

Like to see some more videos what its like to live in Davao...pls share more insights😊

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Will do soon!

[@wyttrecords3889]

Thanks for this fair review of our City. In 5 years or more tha traffic would probably be better once the current road projects are complete, right now the city is like in construction mode, you can see it everywhere you go in the city.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Hoping for that!

[@alice_agogo]

Traffic will never improve unless there's mass transit

[@bellereyes9807]

I like the peace and order, cleanliness, well disciplined motorists

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I feel the same way

[@mariejoymartinez8409]

Side walk, Road is clean everywhere, cause every day our street sweeper woke up very much early to clean the areas they assigned also our garbage collectors to collect garbage every day night and morning ,. Proud daughter here of street sweeper and garbage collector 😊 miss my dad.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

The roads are so clean here! Very refreshing. I feel you missing your dad, I lost mine recently

[@mariejoymartinez8409]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat yeah very much he passed away 7 years ago,. Condolence to you Sir. 🙏

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@mariejoymartinez8409 Thank you 🙏

[@JCarey-uv3bb]

That was beautiful!

[@offthecuffadventureswithjamie]

Very valid points! Other plus points are the playgrounds such as Bukidnon, Apo,, Kapatagan. Dahican Beach. Places to escape the heat. The only other negative I can think of is the earthquakes but we get used to that. Have a plan and be ready to execute it! Great video!! J Ps don’t tell everyone. lol

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

It's our secret, though I saw you were sharing more secrets on your channel 😂 It looks like we might be neighbors in Davao City? I am new to Davao but want to explore the places you've mentioned

[@Rantvph]

Thank you for loving the city. I am a dabawenyo, presently working in Pasig . I am hoping that the government will push thru the Mindanao railway project. And I am still waiting for the implementation of the bus transit system here. By the way, this year I will be submitting my resignation and able to share my skills here in Davao. Ciao!

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Appreciate you sharing! Hope to see you when you are back over here in Davao.

[@Rantvph]

i am here now will be back in manila this february @@WatchCaliforniaExpat

[@someguy861]

Hey, I remember you from one of Pea's videos. Congrats on opening shop in another region. I hope that it benefits the local people, community, and yourself of course.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

You have a great memory, it was 2-3 years ago I was on Filipina Pea's channel. Thank you for your support

[@EasternDreamer615]

This video has been super helpful for me in learning more about Davao! Great video John & Team.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you Alex 😊

[@davlog0404]

Beautiful Davao City ❤ watching from Bangkok

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thanks for visiting 😊

[@daturadreams]

Nail on the head with condo prices. My dad retired in Davao and I have been visiting quite often over the past few years. Always a bitter pill to swallow when it comes to asking price for furnished condos for my multi-moth visits. I have to give a Real Estate seminar every time I'm negotiating for a fair market rate - and still end up paying same or more than I would in Manila or Cebu, elsewhere in SE Asia, or even Europe. On the upside, many new condo developments opening up and hoping that will taper the prices (considering even the lots of the current condos in Davao are at 60% occupancy).

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Appreciate you sharing your experience. Oddly it seems occupancy doesn't influence real estate prices in the Philippines too often.

[@daturadreams]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat Yeah, there is an odd Filipino math at play; better let a place sit empty for 8 months hoping someone rents it later at double the market rate for 4 months. Many of the owners are flush enough to not actually need to break even. But Avida Towers where I usually stay has at least 30% of units plain bare and vacant 'investment properties' - you can see vacant apartments and open AC vents out the windows once you rent (and property growing older and depreciating by the day). With new developments I can only hope these owners get more realistic.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@daturadreams It would be interesting to talk to some of these owners to understand their logic, or lack thereof. We are very close to each other. If you ever want to grab a coffee at Abreeza Ayala let me know

[@dilipbajaj7813]

Loved your discussion on Davao city. My talented Graphic Designer son has recently gone to live there with his fillipino wife. Hope he finds a good job soon

[@leneprincess3329]

Thank you for liking Davao City

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Walang anuman. It's easy to like 😊

[@normanmalabarbas6127]

Welcome to Davao Sir..see you around..

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Hi Sir Norman, thank you for your welcome.

[@ferdinandlacia9340]

DAVAO CiTY iS A HUGE PLACE iN TERMS OF LAND AREA AND STiLL SOROUNDED WiTH TREES AND BEARiNG FRUiTS, JUST GO TO CALiNAN, TORiL, BUNAWAN, LASANG , AND MiNTAL THERES STiLL A LOT OF TREES iN THE BACK GROUND

[@applez1028]

Davao is my hometown but when I lived in Cavite for a year, I can't help but compare when it comes to discipline, respect and safety. Like in Cavite and other areas in Luzon esp Manila, NO smoking policy in public and condo/apartment units is not strictly implemented unlike in Davao. It's kinda irritating cause I don't smoke and I'm with my 2 children who had asthma attacks from time to time. No matter how you complain about it and how many times these neighbors are being "warned" by the property management, they still continue smoking. smh

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

It's true. People in Davao follow the rules.

[@rajsagar9884]

ANU DAW???

[@anjtubzchannel1595]

New subscriber here! Watching from Dubai UAE ❤ I Miss Davao City ❤ The land of promise 🦅

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for watching from Dubai! Are you an OFW there?

[@anjtubzchannel1595]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat Yes, sir working here in Dubai for 8 years already. My hometown is Davao City I Miss Davao hopefully this year can visit again my beloved Davao city. The land of promise 🦅 Davao life is here! Thanks for this vlog. Keep it up 👍

[@Jack-p7i2r]

Davao City is clearly more organised and forward thinking than the rest of the Philippines- Soon the city will be service by high priority bus system - the first of kind in the Philippines

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I agree Davao City is very well organized and forward thinking.

[@raysentillas5878]

😂😂😂 forward thinking😅😅😂😂😂

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

​@@raysentillas5878disagree?

[@alice_agogo]

When will that bus system be inaugurated? 2040?

[@tributagabawa5746]

that is why I humbly suggest sir ,that you should only appreciate Metro Manila and Cebu..never mind Davao . just say Davao is just a wide -spread out laid back city, in order for them to be happy and subscribe to your channel..

[@donaldpanaligan6084]

Davao will soon change its' transportation setting by implementing the first ever in the country, the Davao Bus Project. An LGU initiative, A bus scheme rapid transit that will traverse in city phasing out traditional jeepneys and covers 29 routes on a 700 km bus lanes. with 1000 bus stops. This project is the sought after by the Davaoneos. :)

[@MarkGray-u4i]

Love your videos, John! Always great info... Mark, in Dallas.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you my friend 😊

[@saleemakhtar87]

Very comprehensive and fair, enjoyed from Toronto Canada

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for watching and your kind commenting.

[@alice_agogo]

You forgot the weather. Davao is slightly elevated making it like a mini Baguio. it also rains a lot so it's not as hot as other major PH 🇵🇭 cities in the evenings.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Still gets fairly hot though.

[@princessmae89]

Its hot right now bc of la niña but it rains at night this time around... When ber months starts the wet and cold weather starts too...

[@alice_agogo]

@@princessmae89 here in Region 12 it's been raining for like 2 weeks now it's annoying

[@elsie10]

I'm from Davao City and I would love to be part of Purple Cow team! 😊

[@realgains1538]

Excellent review !

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Glad you liked it!

[@paulpenders3092]

what a nice refreshing video about Davao

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Really appreciate it Paul

[@billyjohnson9166]

I’ve heard a lot of the things you talked about Davao but Cebu is my home.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I really understand. I still love Cebu and it's my second home each month

[@georginavlog2081]

Because davao city is just a huge city.spread out nothing wrong with that just enjoy with the ride and you'll discover more about the other side of the city of what davao has to offer. About business district it's not compact as other cities in manila or cebu but the gov't think the purpose is to stay way from decongestion.but glad you like davao.welcome and enjoy!

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for sharing. With the helpful business area where you can get permits etc I was referring to Sangguniang

[@almahirsch7979]

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CITY AND VERY CLEAN WITH PEACEFUL INVIROMENT IN THE PHILIPPINES, ONLY DAVAO CITY

[@ACafe-qj5eq]

No doubt, 'Life is here' in Davao City.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

For sure

[@Jack-p7i2r]

They are improving all the roads , opening new bypass highways and building new bridges and potentially a new expressway after Davao City Bypass Road

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Yes, its great to see the ongoing improvements.

[@billhornsberger5116]

I’m a retired American who now lives here in Davao (del Sur). Great video! The only point I disagree with is the rent comparison. Yes, fewer condos here, but many here are not full. I live in a condominium right next to a major mall and supermarket here in Davao del Sur, a one minute walk across the parking lot. I’m paying 18k per month long term. Many expats live here, and the highest rent I’ve heard for a one bedroom is 23k long term. A much larger condominium 15 minutes away is only at about 65% full, so negotiating rent downward with owners happens often here. Great video though, all of your other points are spot on!

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Hi Bill, I can guess where you might be not too far where I was at Aeon Tower unless you are by SM Ecoland. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this too. I'm in Cebu City again more these days and really miss being in Davao City! I'll be back for a short time next week if you have any time to grab a coffee.

[@chocolatecookie8571]

This video was helpful for me. Thank you. You have a video about Cotabato city? I would like to know how Davao and Cotabato compare to eachother.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I haven't been yet but would like to visit. There's a lot of Mindanao I haven't seen yet. Where are you writing from if you don't mind me asking?

[@chocolatecookie8571]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat Oh okay. On the internet I am very careful when it comes to sharing my identity. That's why I have a chocolate cookie as username and picture. In some of my videos I cover my face with a cookie. I had some bad experiences in the past that's the reason. I wish internet was a save place but it isn't. When it comes to the Philippines I would like to visit Mindanao more than the other islands because I have a Muslim background. I think I would feel more at home there. Sorry for being a bit mysterious but I do this for my own safety. 🙏

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@chocolatecookie8571 I completely understand and respect that.

[@chocolatecookie8571]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat thank you, sir. But I also understand that others cannot figure out who I am which can be confusing for them. But we don't all have the intention to become a serious youtuber so that makes it less of a big deal. It is a bit a modern thing to expose yourself to the public someting that was unheard of 20-30 years ago. Now everyone from mother to dog seems to be online sharing every piece and bit of their personal lives. I wished I could share more about myself but I am afraid to do so. I lost trust in my fellow humans a bit and have become slightly paranoid due to what I've been through. But I'm still within the healthy borders of mental sanity with some moments of light psychosis now and then, lol.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@chocolatecookie8571 The good thing about remaining private is you avoid a lot of potential drama. I don't have too much online because my channel seems to (overwhelmingly but not exclusively) attract good people who agree or disagree respectfully. But I do attract the occasional baliw person lol.

[@andrewclark235]

Hey I just found you and subscribed. Thank you for the good info. I'm about to move to the PI. My girlfriend is from Mindanao, I was thinking of living in Dumaguete but now I'm thinking Davao would be a better home base. Her family is in Bukidon. Really just a big mahalo for your insight.

[@yukio5419]

HPBS (High priority bus system) is still on the pipeline...maybe 2 or 3 years still for govt to fully implement. It will cover all routes within Davao City. In terms of tourist spots and beach options, id say Cebu has got considerably more choices. Samal is the closest getaway but it isnt yet fully developed and accessibility is a bit of a hassle for now. Hope ul enjoy ur stay in davao sir.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for your helpful comment. I admire how much Davao City cares about transportation and infrastructure and is actually doing something about it. Cebu does have a lot of wonderful beach options, though they are either in expensive resorts in Mactan or take some time to travel to.

[@alice_agogo]

That bridge will destroy the beauty of Samal

[@darkboard5556]

​@@alice_agogo Oh the haters are here. Lol

[@alice_agogo]

@@darkboard5556 it's true, though. It will become a cesspool like Boracay l

[@JoeyZee-vs4kr]

​@@alice_agogoeasy access is better than waiting for hours to ride a boat and pay thousands for the boat ride with car. 😊

[@fancyd66]

Where do you live in Davao? Traffic is nuts in Lanang/ Damosa/ Buhangin. Manila is much worse of course.

[@eu7435]

One thing that wasn't mentioned in the video is the strong earthquakes there in Davao. A magnitude 7.3 earthquake is not unusual. Earthquakes happen there alot more than California. Be sure you are OK with this if you plan on living in D.C,. longer than a vacation. On the plus side, Davao City doesn't get the brunt of typhoons/cyclones/hurricanes like the Central Visayas (like Cebu City}.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

That's a great point, and now that I think about it, that was a big oversight on my part not to mention that in the list of things I don't like in Davao City. Just last night there was an earthquake that woke me, and there has been 3 big earthquakes in the 4 months I've lived here. Living in California I've been through some big earthquakes, but you are right to point out that its something to consider about living here.

[@eu7435]

@WatchCaliforniaExpat - Thanks always for your videos. A couple of more considerations guys: the higher you live in a condo/apartment block- the more movement side-to-side you will experience during an earthquake. Also, do not expect the same building code standards as California or Japan. Lastly, remember that the quality of buildings is not Western standards. Short cuts are often made to save money. It's not as bad as 'Tofu-dreg' Chinese builders, but don't expect the same construction standards as in the West.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@eu7435 Very helpful input. Thank you very much

[@wavemaker2077]

@@eu7435 I wonder if you are a contractor to know that building quality in Davao is not up to western standard. Do you have a basis for your statement or is it just your hunch?

[@eu7435]

@@wavemaker2077 Mindinao Island does not have the same building codes as Japan and here in California. You really think differently? You think the same amount of rebar is in Davao City buildings as in California buildings? California buildings and highways have had billions of dollars in seismic retrofits. It's biggest new building are on giant rollers. You really think that's what's happening in the Philippines?

[@edithusman9916]

THANK YOU SIR, APPRECIATNG DAVAO CITY 👍

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Walang anuman. Salamat for your support

[@Abc123hdbr]

What very clean? Some places are clean some places not so clean.

[@w.c.7247]

Love your videos.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you very much 😊

[@darylalbarracin3140]

Less typhoons in Davao due to surrounding mountain ranges

[@jamesalias595]

One traffic problem with Davao city is not enough bridges across the Davao river, only 3 main bridge crossings and one smaller one. They are adding another smaller one and eventually the coastal road will have a large bridge. There is one way up north in Tigatto but that doesn't help until they eventually open up the city bypass road and tunnels then some of the large truck traffic will bypass the city. Also the current bridges are too small for the traffic volume.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Appreciate you sharing more. It seems like they are working on road widening in places like Bajada.

[@alice_agogo]

I've been hearing that since 2018. Traffic is still the same.

[@darkboard5556]

​@@alice_agogo ummmmm circa 2019 2022 don't ring a bell????

[@alice_agogo]

@@darkboard5556 we're in Davao March of 2023. traffic was still bad

[@marichuarmodia2375]

Did you know is Davao city is my place so that my husband how much he love in Davao because it’s clean and safest in Davao also in cheap as well

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Oh that's great, you and your husband live in Davao City?

[@ralphdarunday2309]

I sympathize with Davaoeños asking you not to advertise Davao for expats cause its getting more crowded thus traffic getting farther worst. We’d love to keep it low key somewhere in between rural & urban ambience but lucky are those who have visited Davao City and deliberately utter “Life is Here” Peace & Order, Bountiful Harvest, Fresh & Affordable fruits veggies, Clean & Green City, Law abiding citizens, Highlands to islands scenery, Etc. Still a lot of flaws, but much more liveable compared to other cities of the Philippines 🇵🇭

[@ScaleAutoGarage]

I can see why many expats would not want to go to a place like Davao, especially considering the quality of expat that you generally see on KZbin. I lived in Dipolog City for many years and my rent was 7500 peso and included water and cable! Not a condo but a pretty nice 2 bedroom apartment. 45k is a lot of money when you are on a retirement pension unless you did quite well for yourself while working. Personally I love MIndano and have been all over the west side, from Zamboanga City to CDO and hope to get more of the east part of Mindano visited this year. Davao is on that list for certain! Thanks for the insights!

[@roamaroundgisg7362]

To add perspective, you are right about Davao city being spread out. Davao City proper/downtown including Lanang and Matina with Agdao is comparable with Cebu city, Talisay, and Mandaue combined. That's how big the Davao city is.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I appreciate the comparison. That truly is a big area.

[@Jack-p7i2r]

You need to find short cuts and you will avoid all the traffic. There are ways to get around Davao

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I'm newer here, so I have a lot to learn!

[@DenG611]

As someone born in Davao City, I appreciate the constructive criticism and affirmations. Btw, whats the name of ur business

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for your support. Are you in Davao still? It's Purple Cow Agency, not the shoe place in Ayala Abreeza ☺️

[@guillerazulgarcia1763]

I like Davao City the most Clean City not other City in the Phillippines.

[@waynesmith3177]

I'll be in Davao City for about a week starting at the end of April. Any tips for a first time visitor? Also from any locals...Is it safe for foreigners to travel between Davao City and the Kidapawan/ North Cotabato area?

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I'd recommend staying near Ayala Abreeza mall. It's central in Davao City, which is fairly big in size compared to other cities in the Philippines. Check out Samal island, which is a close ferry ride away. In terms of traveling to other parts of Mindanao get responses from multiple locals because you'll get mixed responses.

[@waynesmith3177]

@WatchCaliforniaExpat Thanks for the reply. I actually already booked a room in a hotel. I'm not sure how close it is to that mall though. I was thinking about visiting Samal Island too. I'm just asking because I have already heard multiple opinions on how safe the outlying areas on Mindanao are for foreigners, but I haven't talked to many locals about it. Any suggestions on where I could ask things like that?

[@lorinagempesaw830]

As a big City, I think Davao City is the most safety and offers many opportunità. I'm Davaweña. I hope I'm not wrong. Thanks for sharing. Watching from Italy

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Your right! Thank you for watching in Italy 🇮🇹

[@gordonkistler-qo2dj]

I live in Panabo City, love it here! moved from Florida, P I is great!

[@ValleyProud916]

I could of bought damn near half of Samal Island 20 years ago. I met my wife walking down the street in Davao in 1998. I went back 6 months later to get married and have never went back. Her family had a lot of property they wanted me to buy. But there's no way in hell I'm living in that climate. Plus there's nothing to do but drink beer all day.

[@artbrautigam495]

I just want to say thank you for all of the information that you have given. It has kind of convinced me that the next time I come to the Philippines, that is one of the cities I need to visit my. future plans are to live in both the United States and in the Philippines six months. to each place So I'm looking for a place that I would like to see and stay for the six months of my time in the Philippines and then go back home to the United States because I want to maintain what I have in the US and also own a business It'd be interested in meeting you when I'm there. Hopefully I can shake your hand and learn about your business, and I'm considering maybe starting a business over there. In any case, thank you very much for what you have shared and I really appreciate all of the positive information There are a lot of things that you have said that really interest me, such as the place being very clean and organized for traffic compared to other places I've been in the Philippines. So thank you very much Someday we will see you soon. Take care of yourself and keep up the videos. Thank you.

[@thaidawg9231]

Hey John, are there condo's/apartments in Davao that are soundproofed and within walking distance of local fruit and vegetable markets and shopping centers/supermarkets ?

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Yes there are. I would check out areas next to SM Ecoland, Ayala Abreeza, and SM Lanang malls. They are hub areas that have a lot of what you might want around them.

[@kevindegroot846]

Hey man, nice video and love the content. Do you have any advice on starting a business in the Philippines? Thanks in advance.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Appreciate it Kevin. My first channel here has a lot of videos about that www.youtube.com/@JohnSmuloTV. Let me know if I can help

[@VanDavao]

I'm 100% Dabawenyo. For me, it's very safe but a bit boring compared to Cebu and Manila. If you want to live a quiet and peaceful life, Davao is the best choice. Me, as a party go-er, I prefer Manila.

[@YobRam0827]

Love your video sir

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you very much

[@xinhi603]

yeah i am from Davao City too but presently living in Europe..i would also love it when not too much expats in Davao...i'm even happier if no one comes to Davao 😂 . I love how Davao would be or stays tbe same in culture, habits, in characteristics& being conservative and laid back. Hope they stay the same and not be influenced by "outsiders "😂

[@kristineceleridad9684]

same

[@MrSpiders-mb5ve]

So you are happy to experience Europe but you don’t won’t me to experience Davao? I think there is a name for that way of thinking 🤔

[@darkboard5556]

​@@MrSpiders-mb5ve filipinos do not go to other places to change them. We go for work

[@darkboard5556]

​@@MrSpiders-mb5ve foreigners/tourists in the philippines have lots of money and they are naturally very demanding and want locals to change for them. See the difference?

[@renatzkigab2616]

@@darkboard5556 Learning new things to keep orderly and logical is a big plus given by foreigners.

[@junmin3089]

Maybe next time try to visit Eden's Park in Toril

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for the recommendation.

[@joelkrueger6717]

I've been in Davao for 12 months, worked in Oman, Dubai, & Indonesia for many years. I have only done day visits to Manila and Cebu, but you keep mentioning Davao is so clean and organized with everyone following the driving laws. I do find Davao to feel very safe, as long as you travel smart but I apply these same rules when I'm in the USA which allow me to feel very safe there also. Perhaps by Philippine standard your comments about cleanliness and driving are true, but what I have experienced is that there are very few true sidewalks except on primary roads. The sidewalks are often very close to the main road which is dangerous. Yes there is generally no large standing trash but there is alot of dirt such that you can't wear your outdoor shoes in the house. The driving is only safe bc the traffic speed is at a moderate speed, there are plenty of motorcycles here on the road as in most places in Philippines.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Hi Joel, thank you for sharing more of your thoughts and experience. It's true that I'm saying these things in comparison to Cebu City and Manila. The LTO is far stricter in Davao, which also makes the driving safer and there are far less motorcycles in Davao City than ceiling City (though not necessarily Manila), which also keeps things safer because of how motorcycles typically drive in Cebu City.

[@OnilMarteNavarroza]

That's ridiculously expensive. Even in BGC in Manila, there are 1BR flats for 35 thousand.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

In my experience pricing condos, Davao City is the most expensive, Cebu City second, and Makati third. There is the least supply in Davao City and high demand. Same with hotels are expensive in Davao City for comparable hotels because they are so often booked out.

[@wavemaker2077]

Law of supply and demand.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@wavemaker2077 Exactly

[@ricardorecto9332]

@@wavemaker2077 facts ..

[@Gaspar314]

Sadly the lack of good jobs is very much a reality in Davao, and all other places outside Manila and Cebu. A lot of good talents would have to leave their hometowns just to get good employment.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I understand. I've opened offices in Davao city and am always looking for great applicants

[@DenG611]

Thats why we need more Foreign Direct Investments like what the owner of this channel did

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@DenG611 Thank you po

[@ronintsukebin9163]

I am a native English speaker but have taught Japanese not as a career but privately. As a side business do you think there would be much interest in Davao City? Does it have a Japan Town to get quality Japanese food? Thank you if you have time to answer.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Hi Ronin, I think it might be a difficult business if teaching locals. But perhaps you could consider teaching Japanese online to people in Australia or Singapore or other countries in similar time zones? There isn't a Japan town in Davao City unfortunately

[@ronintsukebin9163]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat Thanks for the reply back. I sill will think about coming as that is not the main reason to possibly come. I continue to watch videos to see if I will make this choice and so will do my homework.

[@Maya-uy2xx]

What is the name of your company? Thank you!

[@MarioCarrizales-sr4mf]

How do you own a business as an expat?

[@frankamerica4963]

watching from davao hehe

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Hello 😊

[@WebtoonPirate]

I lived in manila, cebu and davao. By far davao city is less chaotic. BUT you wont have a fun night life here in Davao compared to manila or cebu.haha

[@ninaando2952]

But at least you get better sleep

[@seans7228]

Is it completely safe for foreigners there?

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I think it is safe, but nowhere in the world is likely completely safe. I feel safer here than I did in bigger cities in the US.

[@alice_agogo]

People from Davao came from Cebu. They're the exact same ethnic group.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Interesting to know. Thanks for sharing. Though lots of tribes in Mindanao. All the same?

[@alice_agogo]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat Mindanao is 75% Christian. They mostly came from Visayas before WW2 with a few from Luzon. The original inhabitants of Mindanao are the few Muslim and indigenous tribes.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

​@@alice_agogoseems like there's more than a few tribes.. Well over 10

[@alice_agogo]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat true but each of those tribes have only several thousand members.

[@tributagabawa5746]

no, Davao is culturally grounded. I guess only Davao has a competition for cultural song writing in the entire Philippines during its ARAW NG DABAW

[@leneprincess3329]

Miss Davao City

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

I understand that

[@djenntt]

As someone who drives on a motorbike in Davao, I think you’re talking about a Davao in a different universe 😅 Davao driving is a bit chaotic. I lost count how many times Filipinos almost killed me. Or in comparison to Cebu, Davao driving is wonderful. Never been to Cebu. I really enjoy exploring Mindanao, most places are safe for foreigners. Just stay away from the west coast.

[@zalicacandao163]

Davao City is the largest city (by size) in the Philippines. That's why, as you said, it is not as compact as Cebu City.

[@onleeatillo8324]

Proud Dabawenyo here

[@canardeur8390]

Is it easy to incorporate in the Philippines? How about minimum requirements in terms of start capital, minimum number of employees required,...?

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Start capital depends on the type of business. Export only businesses are very low startup capital. There isn't a minimum number of employees to start.

[@canardeur8390]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat Thanks for your answer, I appreciate. My business is an IT company based in Thailand, customers are all based abroad. In the meanwhile, I have discovered your other channel and watched the interview with Heidi about OPCs. From what I see and hear, the Philippines seem to be easier than Thailand.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@canardeur8390Id be very interested to talk about your experience in Thailand. Please send a message if you have some time to chat

[@canardeur8390]

@@WatchCaliforniaExpat Sure, will drop a message to your email.

[@ur1ocalmag1c0]

the best! i have a condominium unit in Davao City.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Nice! Living here too

[@VinNord]

Welcome to Davao...

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you very much

[@Marc-f2l]

Davao is still in mindanao, theres a stigma that comes with it, reason why less foreigners visit Davao or mindanao.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

True, but I think its undeserved. It's a great place to live.

[@RueKit-s9d]

Davao is like the California of Philippines, somehow

[@marichuarmodia2375]

Love Davao because is very desipline with tatay Digs

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Yes, very true :)

[@ShredzZ_SteamDeck_Gameplays]

Im in Cebu now, going to visit Davao for few weeks to see where I want to live, I hope it’s less trash and beggars than in Cebu

[@darkboard5556]

Christmas and new year's holidays are now over. Streets are now back to normal. You will see only a few beggars now. During christmas and New Year's indigenous peoples come down from the mountains around davao for gift giving, an annual tradition. Sadly a lot of them end up sleeping on the streets. But holidays are over now. They are back in the mountains now so you won't see a lot of beggars on the streets. There are a few but not enough to cause you discomfort.

[@edillaceniza1939]

There are less beggars in Davao. Beggars in Davao are kind. Indeginous people here are also kind and humble. Most Badjao don't live being beggars anymore. Most of them sell ukay-ukay shoes now. Crazy people can't even roam around here in the street because police take them and put them in a safe place, in this way people who walk around are also safe.

[@s6t6n6s9]

Rent is Expensive yes! But Food here in Davao sooooo Cheap!

[@rexmascarina2169]

The Japanese business 👨‍💼 people they want direct flight ✈️ from Tokyo to Davao. So many reasons like they want to see and visit the Japanese cemetery ww2 died soldier in Mental Davao city 🌆

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you for sharing. I didn't know that

[@Jack-p7i2r]

Davao City is the largest in the Philippines

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Largest city?

[@anjtubzchannel1595]

Yes Davao City is the largest city in the Philippines and one of the largest city in the world. One of the safest city in the world. I love Davao City ❤ Watching from Dubai. ​@@WatchCaliforniaExpat

[@chasrand5913]

Land wise, @ 244,000 hectares, Davao City is not only the largest city in the PH but the World. @@WatchCaliforniaExpat

[@MycorOpsima]

​@@WatchCaliforniaExpatland area only hehe

[@jetd9716]

You mentioned the traffic is organized? Thats not the Philippines, I like the chaos of the city life, its a unique vibe. 😅 Gotta have chaos.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Lol, you'll be happy in most cities in the Philippines then 😂

[@raysentillas5878]

You can save a lot in davao, there is nothing much to spend,

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

😁

[@darkboard5556]

Davao is bad for katkats but good for normal people.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

@@darkboard5556 Yes I've seen that

[@Bluejhazz]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Thank you!

[@kmadz8194]

Metro davao is better than metro cebu and metro manila ,but hopefully they can build a LRT or MRT .

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

What do you like better about Davao City compared to the other cities? I love Davao too but some aspects of metro Manila and Cebu I like a lot

[@MycorOpsima]

Because you are from Davao

[@elarjeekaayo]

Will you consider me if in case i will look for a job? 😁😁😁

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Feel free to send your resume anytime :)

[@theshadow532]

What Davao city hes from? Davao is not organized motorcycles are dangerous here in Davao. Trash everywhere where this guy from?

[@darkboard5556]

Not in your head

[@MackyPamintuan]

"See-Boo," "Duh-vow." Four years in the Philippines should've fixed that pronunciation by now.

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

Yes your right I should have

[@NoChat66a]

Thank you sir for your input! But can I ask... show the actual city! The actual people! Stop with all the Google images and stock photos and video shots! Please show more of the streets and crowds!

[@WatchCaliforniaExpat]

You are right I need to do that! I'm often busy with running my business so I haven't made more time to be on the streets but I will make more of an effort 😊 Any recommendations for places to show?