How and Why I Formed My Expat Community in Trece Martires City and Surrounding Areas !!!

A brief talk about about how and why I formed an Expat Community in the Philippines.

[@franciscofletes1948]

I’m a lifer here. I wouldn’t call myself a loner but I am comfortable keeping to myself just have a quiet personality but I do think community is important especially among those of us who have made the permanent move. Those on SRRVS or those with kids here, family, this is our home and our shared experience as expats connect us. There are unique issues that us expats have to deal with that the traveling tourist or local citizen knows nothing about… having resources like this channel and the community is really cool. Most of us had to stumble through this stuff on our own

[@kenmcleod8618]

I consider myself in your group. I’m just too far away from you guys

[@Lig814]

Your a great guy i wish there were more people like you !!!!

[@johnkeogh42]

I'm renting a house with gf ay Lapu2x. Probably setlle around here or Cebu.

[@CraigHenderson-u9b]

Excellent work you help us understand what is true and real. Would seriously need the support your community provides when I make the decision to travel.

[@zpatrickz81]

You inspire and give me hope, I have less than 1 year before I turn 65 and counting the days. I have a friend from my hometown that I grew up with there in the Fillipines so it's looking good...

[@orliedionela4493]

My beautiful city!

[@NealCollins-ho6yp]

Really enjoyed your vlog. I watched about of of them last night a was able to get some of my questions answered from them. I do understand wanting to get the group to a point where your all comfortable. I hope to move to the PI in about 2 yrs. And I must say your location sounds perfect for 14:24 me because of the access to VA clinic. And cost of living sounds really good as well. I look forward to hearing more from you and God bless all of you there. Take care

[@sbayles]

The community concept is wonderful. So many people don’t have anyone in their lives. Everyone helping each other is the way it should be and you don’t see that enough.

[@juanquinones221]

Interesting,eventually you'll grow so much your going to need help,there's alot of Interesting thing that can come of this that will facilitate thing for visas,licenses,etc.

[@ph5915]

That's awesome! I would imagine it's extremely helpful to have a group of friends in a new land to help get settled and understand how things work and then form true friendships as well. And it's also great to have locals in the network as well, doesn't make sense to me to live in a different land and only stick with ex-pats from your own country. LOL. I don't know that I'll ever leave the US, we'll see, but it's nice to know there are people out there that are willing to help out of kindness.

[@ronvanscooter5941]

I love what you're saying Steve it sounds like you've put a good thing to help other people to get comfortable and understand the Philippines a little bit more I know it's got to be scary coming from America over to a different country I know I'm going to be a little nervous and shaky when I touch down it's good to know that you have American friends or American contacts that can help or at least guide you to get comfortable in your surroundings you got to get your bearings right if you don't feel comfortable you will just end up coming back to the United States to your comfort zone that's the part where I want to be out of my comfort zone and meet new people and experience new things new country new experience new adventure hopefully someday Steve I'll be able to meet you

[@cyndig1670]

I felt that we need to do this here in Duma. Dr, dentist,, housekeepers or others that we can trust and all call on. Same with nursing aide or for any medical help. Not just random helpers somehow. We cant even find any really.

[@riverdogsavioroftheunivers978]

You're the only decent vlogger Or rather the only expat vlogger that doesn't monetize helping people .... great job giving back You have the Riverdog stamp of approval

[@Oggiwara1]

I'm sure you have made a great community group. So hat off for you, sir! And it looks like a nice area too with more greenery than concrete. But! When I read the reviews on the hospitals in that city, I would not like to get in to a serious accident or other sudden health issues if living there. Another thing, is that you are located in what I consider as the danger zone if the Taal volcano goes bananas, which it has the potential to do. Depending on the wind direction.

[@ralphzyx2018]

Your a remarkable guy. I can see your compassion. Hope I make it to the Philippines one day

[@MadeNCda]

I'm happy for you all Steve - that you have a sense of belonging and watch out for one another and the locals. I hope you all continue to enjoy these golden years for long time to come.

[@jamesnichols2511]

Im a 70 year old man, wanting to live a nice, peaceful life, cook for myself, enjoy friendly people, new friends, etc. I've been blasted by several expats telling me to stay home, the islands are for those younger then I am. they seem to think i want to come over to get a virgin, play with the young, sponge off the young ladies, or be a sugar daddy. thats the furthest thing in my mind. I, being a former sailor, love the beach, love the serenity of the islands, love the friendliness of the people of the islands. I just want to enjoy what time I have left being happy. Is this wrong, am I too late to enjoy my life anymore. a community like yours is what i'm actually looking for. love meeting new people. the states have become a mess, stressful, costly, unfriendly, etc.

[@phil-be-health]

The US also has communities as well around. The biggest thing for you will be being around good medical facilities which unfortunately will not be on the islands.

[@David53D]

I think it depends on ones health since initially ones lack of resistance to the different bacterias of the Philippines is chalenging and even a mosqito bite can lead to complications A healthy diet and regular exercise is important in my experience . What kind of shape are you in James if I may ask?

[@TomBTerrific]

Hey I’m 72 and sure we are limited but so what. We don’t have many years left. As long as you’re not hurting anyone or taking advantage do what ever brings you happiness. I’ve always loved traveling. Probably why I’ve been to and lived in lots of places. My work also had something to do with it. You sound responsible enough maybe you need new friends that know you well enough that they don’t need to judge you. I would be in the Philippines now except for the travel restrictions. All this Covid crap has really negatively impacted my life and travel.

[@Cons2911]

I’m younger than most you guys, but when I’m stressed..just listening and watching the waves..so peaceful. Last time we went to the beach I didn’t even swim..just sat by the shore watching the sunrise..watching kids play..the constant sound of crashing waves..so nice

[@petergrant1322]

I am a fellow 70 year old from N Z. Only you know what your motivation is. If it is as you have articulated go for it. 100% behind you. Me, I have an Indonesian lady I met here in NZ 3 years ago. We are hoping to be together in about 6 weeks time in NZ .Visa approval tomorrow in Jakarta. Then booking a flight in a month to 6 weeks for her to come here. My life continues no matter how old. All the best mate

[@Synfulz]

Great heartfelt vlog Steve. You have built a nice community and should be commended.

[@meer3731]

Next one, they never accept responsibility for their own actions, blaming others for their own problems. And setting boundaries for these types isn't good to do it verbally. But setting these boundaries to separate yourself from is the best action. Being verbal about boundaries lets them know what your thinking, which opens doors for exposure of your weaknesses.

[@MrSteven5975]

Today’s Vlog…. “Surrounded by Idiots”…. lol . Joke

[@seaweedhero1707]

Interesting!

[@ajphototrekker]

Great video. Maybe provide help to others to start other small groups. Totally agree about large groups being less than ideal.

[@MrSteven5975]

Totally agree!

[@MartinKendrik]

Hey, is your community still active in trece? I came back to the motherland for new years

[@MrSteven5975]

Yes

[@michaellee2652]

Community is very important indeed! Great video Steve and god bless!

[@kellycamp27]

your a facilitator

[@philrose7716]

Great video!!!

[@markledesma2396]

A sense of community is awesome.

[@CEShoen]

It's not political to tell the story. You know we ALL want to hear it now.

[@cheryls832]

I love the idea. It would be good to have more women. I transferred through the Manila airport last year on my way to Bali. Just a few things I noticed. The Manila airport was really small and disorganized. I flew Philippine Air and we had to wait in a room so they could identify the luggage manually and open it to check it. Very crazy. Your bag couldn't be put on the plane to the US until it was found. Also, can you talk about the covid vaccine and booster situation. I overheard a Mother telling the airport staff that one child had 3 boosters and the other one had 4 boosters. What are the covid vaccine requirements for expats? I was asked about a booster on my way to Bali at the transfer desk. It was not required for Indonesia so they let me get on the plane.

[@NelsonCummings]

Great

[@mamamia5556]

Nevertheless, when I'm back in Philippines considering settling in one of the subdivisions there ie Sabella etc. and grow my own small veggie patch, do online selling of my crochet accessories introducing beaded crochet jewellery, baked goodies & variation of nutritious soups 😉

[@throughblindeyesmyphilippi2015]

I would probably not be able to live there because my Filipina needs to be close to her work. She works 12 hours a day plus light traveling in between so she will be gone basically 14 hours a day which I can see now might lead to some boredom so I can definitely see me taking a trip a week or whatever over to see you there and hang out. I definitely want to be around good non judgemental people. Good vlog Steve 👍

[@GregoryMallard]

I'm just curious. Have you ever considered creating a Discord server for your local expat community??

[@benderdandat2603]

Bravo Zulu! Thank you for keeping us informed about what's going on in the area. I was born and raised in Imus and moved to the US after college and now thinking about retiring somewhere back in Cavite. Imus got a little too congested for me now and the capital is still a great since I want to have a hospital nearby. I could prolly contribute to the community also since I'm still a local and Dual. Are you welcoming an expat, dual and former local? Anyways, I'm looking forward meeting you all!! Keep up the great work you do!!

[@wildbill7081]

yeah you should be excepted for sure where I live in the Bacoor area we have a small group with explats an Filipino's we get together at our places and go out sometimes..........

[@MrSteven5975]

[e-mail]

[@reidadams4277]

Can you show us videos of your area?

[@MrSteven5975]

I have in many of my past videos

[@freddylamberte]

You mentioned about two years ago you formed your expat community. Are you there when the Taal volcano erupted? Reports say more than 50 K + people have been affected. Can you tell more about that pls. I'm planning to relocate in Trece Martires may be next year. Taal volcano started smoking again. Stay safe bro.. and have a good life Thx.

[@wlb-comments7596]

" To form a community is not that hard". Well, it is if where you live you are the only foreigner for 50 kilometers. But glad you have a fairly large group to converse and work with. about once a year we get the fellow that will show up for a few weeks then is gone. This town is my town too now, as I have been coming her over 16 years. My community is formed will all the filipino friends, and family as that is what I have to work with. *grin*. It would be nice to have a fellow westerner here full time. Online helps with the missing the western conversations, ect.

[@stevep5093]

Hi Steve. I am coming to visit in a month again to look at Baguio as a place to possibly live. I hope one of these times I can meet you to say thanks for the advice. God bless 🙏

[@TomBTerrific]

Not sure where exactly you’re located. I go to several provinces. Zambales being one of them. When US force were here there was a big presence in several locations. Of course the US military is long gone but some things linger. It good to connect with expat organizations . They can save someone lots of time and frustration. There is a place called the FRA . That stands for Fleet Reserve Association I think. Personally I was in the Army. I never heard of FRA before but it’s like the American Legion. The will take the mystery out of finding a good doctor, mechanic, contractor etc. I think they are great to belong to.

[@tomgerryinphilippines8817]

That's pretty amazing how it has grown. It is a good set up for people who want to go to Philippines and really don't know anyone. If I didn't already have a gf in mindanao for sure the fact there are lot of foreigners in one area gives it a safe feeling opposed to going into an area where you don't know anyone. I'd like to come up there at some point just to say hello after I am there. Good subject and I think it's great what you do and the help and advice you offer.

[@DHarri9977]

I can see you enjoy the camaraderie within your community the one theme which is pretty much standard and mentioned among many vloggers and commentators is that it's their country and foreigners are expected to adjust to their social norms. Having such a group to lean on for support as you maneuver through the system and get settled in is sort of luxury in the sense that the people that have come before you have already figured out the headaches, the good, the bad, and the ugly.

[@MrSteelepalm]

Very difficult for me to trust anyone

[@mannyc4224]

Great job! Expat trolls are just haters and jealous of you. But they live in fear so they can't do it. I feel sad for the trolls.

[@christophermeaney5485]

Steve 18,000 plus again I remember when you had like 8 9 11 00 enjoy the video.... Question if your health keeps you from taking a walk around town video maybe you could ask one of your brothers or sisters living out there in your community to go out and take a 15 minute video of how to go to the drugstore what's new at the mall what's going on downtown at the market public market stuff like that I think I'd be well received and as you know I always ask you about it cuz I love those videos nothing against you personally but I'd rather watch what's going on out in town that watch Steve's mug in front of my TV but love the videos brother all right thanks...

[@MrSteven5975]

Soon

[@bigjohnson7415]

I just hope the folks are able to put their "US" attitude and/or political views behind. Seems the most divisive issues are politics and religion.👍👍👍

[@mitijr2031]

Hi, I’m James. I’m African but grew up in Canada. I’m new to Trece. I’m here with my new wife and family but I miss speaking English lol. How do I join the community.

[@MrSteven5975]

[e-mail]

[@johnsinc6301]

Your Humble. It’s shows and is refreshing. I am heading over September 4th.

[@manilamartin1001]

cool to hear that. I live near Olongapo and we have a decent mix of white expats and Korean expats. I like Chinese expats as well but I really don't feel part of their community.

[@johnspielberger518]

Like your style but please tell me how to handle a 24 hour flighr ??? . Respecfully

[@MrSteven5975]

I just rest and walk around and stand

[@jdtravels5140]

In the 80s, while living in Europe, I was befriended by an Esso Oil executive. His family owned a holiday home in some German enclave in the Philippines. Only recently have I discovered why he and his family loved the Philippines. I follow one military retired expat that covered a hospital in the Manila area that takes Tricare. Thank you for your incredible insights into Filipino life.

[@peterchapman272]

I’m on my way the count down is on 2weeks out my destinations is very close to you Silang Cavite Looking Forward to meeting you and community in the near future

[@mochapoundcake]

Mayor Steve!!! 😁

[@mochapoundcake]

Totally understandable to worry about your native country. Same is true of us Pinoys who live overseas. But it’s a great feeling to have found a home outside of your native country.

[@leonardmarlin4330]

I can appreciate what you have to offer there with really the forming of a group of people far away from home working together as a family. I was in the service and everytime we got stationed anywhere overseas to Okinawa Japan or to Ramstin Germany or stateside Kessler in Mississippi or Mcdill in Florida as a Christian the first thing my wife and I did was seek out a church to get involved with and be a part of my guess is you probably have many Christians and Catholics in your group. Good video 👍 Steve keep up the great work. I was reminded of Paul's saying he uses sometimes. Paul the vlogger not Paul in the in the new testament... Paul old dog new tricks. If you want to hear God laugh just tell him your plans...hahahaha I have a feeling God has other plans 🙏 Good luck and God bless you.

[@kenheim8170]

Aloha lads invite them they will come Net working is a great thing The how to With out your help the transition is harder overwhelming Lot of first time experiences The brotherhood and sister hood is wonderful I know what loneliness is 24 years 14 hours days no home life No girlfriend The professionals you can spend a lot of time gas money looking for them Dreams are the ideas that bring us closer together The transition can be a lonely place Relationships take time to build not everyone is on the same page as you are Not so easy not everyone will be your friend that s ok The ones who are not forthcoming with thier actions of good will drop them The good wills of one self is where the love is for your fellow man Imagine feeding someone a hour later they are begging for more These are the trolls who are not grateful I used to go to church i miss those friendships You have a wonderful life All the best God bless all of ye Ken

[@tamarackmi9195]

🙋‍♀️Trece Matires&Steve 🙏s and blessings💕

[@carena8478]

Steve, You're a good man and I hope I get a chance to tell you that in person one day.

[@gailmaplesden7380]

The ideal area for most is availability of good Healthcare, clean environment, close to immigration services and shopping centers or malls . Living next to the beach is ok but if it's always over cast then it can get depressing. Some people need to be around their own kind and others are more family oriented and their girlfriend is there best friend. Different strokes for different folks .

[@mamamia5556]

I've been wondering why it's called "Trece" Martirez, if that place was named in honor of the 3 Martyrs GomBurZa in Philippine History then it should have been named Tres Martirez meaning 3 Martyrs not 13 (Trece) Martyrs...

[@MrSteven5975]

Some call it the City of 14 Martyrs because of Alex Lubigan.

[@invest423]

Sir, that is execellent. God Bless you all.

[@froppy_root6967]

Hi Steve! My wife currently lives in Quezon City. I have been living part-time in the U.S. and part-time there. I have been wanting to look at moving to Trece Marites. I will be there in the fall. I'd like to meet you and the community. What's the best way to get in touch when I get there?

[@MrSteven5975]

[e-mail]

[@Ferenczy1966]

"Agree to Disagree" - The key to great friendships.

[@eliottrobinson8288]

I am in the process of preparing to move there and I will need assistance on retirement Visa. How can I get in touch with you Steve and where exactly are you? My name is Eliott.

[@MrSteven5975]

[e-mail] and ask for my number

[@RickyFuller-wq6os]

Hello Mr Steve. Great video. Sad to here you are going to shut of the expat community because if I ever get there you were the one I was really interested in. God Bless you and your family

[@MrSteven5975]

You can still join but we are going to slow down on promotion of it. We are getting big enough.

[@kellycamp27]

great show and info as always.

[@coastal455]

Hi Steve. Just recently found your channel. I thououghly enjoyed this video. I live in Muntinlupa City, and have been here since 2016. Watching your video made me stop and realize how much I've been secluding myself the pasr couple of years because of covid restrictions. I like your idea of helping others and have been thinking of ways I might be able to contribute more. What is the best way to get in touch with you?

[@MrSteven5975]

[e-mail]

[@edic2619]

Great information. Great job.

[@aleedan72]

God bless you. I like what you do

[@zeckul]

Hi Steve, thanks for the video! Do you know anyone living in Silang or Lipa? I was looking at cities with cooler weather and these two came up, not very far from you. Just wondering if there are a lot of expats there.

[@ropineapplehead2198]

James of “My PI Dream” channel is in Lipa; lot of videos in the area.

[@peteh6063]

Sounds like Shangri-La… respect for each other. I guess it’s all about timing, I’m out your way in 23 would have loved your community… embraced it.Great vlog Steve be well.😎🇨🇦

[@thomaspoore3615]

Surprised that many Expats are in your area. Glad they meet and greet every so often. Not sure how you chose your location but I'm glad it seems to be working out for you, you seem knowledgeable and happy.

[@undercover1968ru]

im a little far to be part of your community but would like for my gf an I to go Texas Roadhouse an meet youn if your ok with that

[@MrSteven5975]

Hi Guys, It’s that time again for an “Expat Get Together” !!! This time due to the Rainy Season here we will just have Dinner at the Texas Roadhouse at the EVIA Mall in Alabang at the Texas Roadhouse at 2pm on Wednesday the 24th. The Van to leave at my house will leave at 12 noon sharp. I need a headcount for anyone riding in the van from Trece Martires and back. Please let me know if you are going and if you will be taking the van. We will split the cost of the van amongst all riding. It should be a great time to sit and chat and make new friends and meet old ones. Please let me know if you are going and need a ride as soon as you can. Thanks, Steve (The Philippine Info Channel) [e-mail]

[@marcusgraham9478]

Hi Steve a question, you have done a great job for expats, I know Cavite but are they all Americans, for no particular reason just asking, because if they are not, non Americans have not much in common, you really are providing that's for sure, I'm Australian who has never visited the USA and different social security situations, great video and so informative especially the services that you can be provided, Dasmarinas is my part of Cavite if and when I retire there, I am still with my wife in Australia, thankyou for this video and the info about your girlfriends invaluable assistance, very very informative and reassuring 🙂

[@MrSteven5975]

We have a Danish gentleman

[@MrSteven5975]

And a German too

[@kennyl.TheSilverJewelryGuy]

what does it cost to join the group.

[@MrSteven5975]

Nothing

[@arseniaallen6574]

I have family in general trias where I’m staying how far away from you is that

[@MrSteven5975]

A mile

[@Spamlure]

didn't realize you were so far from the beach.

[@MrSteven5975]

30 minutes

[@RBV1962]

Great information Steven. I am going to need an attorney referral. I'll be in a different area but l don't know if l really need to be in the same area right.?

[@Hicks-g1m]

Great vlog Steve for someone who is retired here you're a very busy man God bless 🙏🏿

[@franktaylor7617]

😎👍 🇺🇸

[@markvoorhees1294]

Great videos as always Steve!

[@Nqmad]

We have been watching the blog for quite a while now, very informative and interesting:) Have now been in Cavite 2 weeks and would love to drop by the cabana :) How do you join the community?

[@MrSteven5975]

[e-mail]

[@michaelrichmond4389]

could please post your community address and how far are you from the major airport and which airport are closet too. I enjoy your videos

[@MrSteven5975]

We are located in and around Trece Martires

[@MrSteven5975]

Manila airport is closest to us

[@daviddamaso2503]

I'd like to join your Expat Community, I'll be arriving this November 14th. 2023 . Can i email you or text you... please let me know... Thanks Steve... I'm David from San Diego, Ca. Ok you take care..ttyl... Peace David D

[@MrSteven5975]

[e-mail]

[@Ara9gorn999]

Hi Steve, can you please tell me how to contact you.Your video's have made me consider becoming part of your community there in the Philippines. Is there an email address i can contact you at.

[@MrSteven5975]

[e-mail]

[@Rinnnnnn17]

We move in TMC when I saw your vlogs, Steve. Im a local yet you gave comprehensive update about the place...its really true that the LGU of Trece Martires is so awesome, theres no fixers, people are so nice and no one takes advantage from one another. This place is a breath of fresh air to us whom came from Manila. Just wanted to say thank you so much 🤍 And ohhh I forgot to tell that Im a Virtual Assistant and my husband is on tech stuff as an IT guy. If you and your community needs our services, you can reach on us. 🙂