The HARSH Realities of Retirement in The Philippines!

[@MindFusion-ij1xl]

Exceptional wisdom, experienced, candid, clear, thoughtful. Never thought such insight would be found on KZbin on any subject.

[@everymanhasastory]

Thank you so much. Your comment made my day ❤️

[@albathoughtsofficial]

@@everymanhasastory Rest in PEACE brother. Your work here is done. You helped so many thousands of us through your own inspiring story and sharing the journeys of so many others.

[@tatianastarcic]

Retirement isn’t an end goal, but a journey best secured by careful and consistent investments.

[@Vincent-j8u]

Retirement is the reward of disciplined investing over the long term, not just a destination.

[@nicolasbenson009]

My adviser guided me through retirement planning, ensuring my investments were strategically positioned for long-term rewards.

[@sharonwinson-m8g]

Mind if I ask you to recommend this particular coach you using their service? Seems you've figured it all out.

[@nicolasbenson009]

Melissa Terri Swayne can't divulge much. Most likely, the internet should have her basic info, you can research if you like.

[@TinaJames222]

Thanks for sharing, I just looked her up on the web and I would say she really has an impressive background in investing.. I will write her an e-mail shortly.

[@acornsucks2111]

One man's dream is another man's nightmare.

[@TheUrantia001]

Thays this world, a nightmare for real people...not bots..

[@user-wl9yr1bj4w]

@@acornsucks2111 no. one man's nightmare is one man's dream.

[@thorgt8197]

Not so cut and dry. There are situations where one man’s nightmare is everyone’s nightmare. Same with the dreamy

[@kanointhephilippines8082]

From what I see many guys come here with way too high expectations and they simply move way too fast at the start. This culture requires you to crawl, walk then run, this takes time and there are no shortcuts in the learning curve. Every successful expat has plan a, b and c in place for every scenario that could arise in daily life. My advice is to come here and decompress from Western life for awhile, forget dating , drinking and making friends with other expats. Take 6 months get on a motor and explore the Island and also take time to really determine what you want this life to look like. After you answer some hard questions with yourself then and only then should you start looking for a partner and slowly creating the life you desire. The big thing is not to rush anything here, don't trust anyone 100%, set boundaries and never compromise on them. After all it's our time now, we have worked our entire life for this, make it great!

[@skip2it426-]

You definitely hit on some great true points👍🏾!

[@Iamkayaky]

Yep

[@brianstevens8554]

Interesting..I was thinking of retiring there,but prefer to visit frequently its safer...

[@mike-ulove2travel]

You are spot on with this! A person should take the time to do self inventory and evaluate their new surroundings before looking for and/or trusting a partner. Very good information.

[@Gweilo60]

Good advice

[@krisgen29]

Thanks Mark. It's important people know the harsh realities. I don't think expat vloggers in the Philippines mention this enough. Dave, Perth, Australia

[@turtartu]

Really sobering information Makes me rethink everything

[@kennethsouthard6042]

Yeah, for something that is easily dealt with in a 1st world country, you are either going to die or end up extremely fucked up affecting both your quality and quantity of life.

[@Asia-p1p3b]

Good stay out

[@michael-ph3jn]

No weed? Fuck that!

[@mike.p.1400]

He is spot on. On what he mentioned but there are many many more problems. Consider your age. Your health. Your finances. The level of comfort you require. Do you like to dress nice ? Because if you do the climate here is unbearable. The infrastructure is totally unreliable.

[@jlmarc01]

Your best vblog ever Mark. Not to scare anyone, we’ll just a little. But informative. Makes us think 2x

[@everymanhasastory]

Thank you for watching and for your kind words 🙏

[@fabiantom]

Thank you for your time that you dedicate to talk so openly and objectively about your life, I am sure that this information will be useful to many people. I wish you and your family much health and happiness.

[@usuallyroamingrob7731]

The hospitals here in Bangkok are wonderful.

[@rusted5408]

Pretty nurses don't make it wonderful (haha)

[@BillonBass]

@@rusted5408 Bangkok Hospital was actually rated worldwide ahead of Duke Medical Center and The Mayo in Phoenix. Right there with the UCLA Medical Center.

[@rusted5408]

@@BillonBass has nothing to do with my comment about pretty nurses. Bot

[@AsiaGuy2025]

​@@rusted5408 the hospital s in Thailand are first rate why devalue the comment?

[@3777177]

Yes, thailand has superior medical to philippines, even St Lukes is like going to the VET compared to Bangkok....

[@jle4433]

So many men need to hear this...

[@billwalsh388]

The older I get, the less I trust people.

[@JamesMckenzie-u6m]

I thought it was just me 😮

[@soma4u289]

anywhere!

[@thaidawg9231]

I'm really struggling to understand why all you guys love it so much there.

[@zorbakaput8537]

NO point trying to explain - experience it yourself.

[@everymanhasastory]

It's an acquired taste. Not for every man.

[@slavetothegrind872]

The Philippines is awesome. Definitely not for the weak.

[@edwardlawler9487]

@@slavetothegrind872 Not for the weak is why its hard to love cheap yes but other than that its third hand for way too many things to live full time

[@Koza480]

@@zorbakaput8537 I have been there 5 times and I won’t be going back. The place sucks.

[@321ozzy]

You shared valid points, I live in the jungle in Mexico and recognize a lot of issues you mention.

[@lb9007]

Exactly I am a resident in MX and trying to get your deposit back, good luck

[@paulmackie5622]

Whoaaaaaaaaa, another eye opening video ,kinda tells us like it is, many things for potential Expats to ponder before going to retire in the PH, any way thxs for posting some really good info

[@blackwonderBW]

That was probably the most sobering take I've seen on retiring there. I needed this. Thank you!

[@gogo-bi9qh]

Thanks for the reality check.

[@amvet5387]

I built a beautiful home then the rifraf moved into our subdiv. it turned into a slum/farm. noise as hell. dirty, people burning rubbish when I got them garbage collection. after 9 yrs off and on. I had enough. it is a disrespectful culture. My wife is staying for while but I am leaving next week and I will never come back here. I am fed up with the people here.

[@Loigis]

I understand very interesting to here from someone else.takecare

[@segarnyagold1014]

Are you going back to the USA?

[@ßhopkins]

LoL another bites the dust 🎉 🎉 di na kinaya 😂😂

[@amvet5387]

@@ßhopkins LOL

[@ßhopkins]

@@amvet5387yeah may you find your people someday. maybe the US will suit you better, having the same personality as yours --very open minded, adaptable, no karens, happy, jolly, chill and super friendly,👍🙄😎🤣 LMAO

[@Koza480]

Good video. You are very good at explaining things like they are. The very best.

[@Lover_warrior]

Im living here full time, remote, 14 yrs. I packed up and moved here with my Filipina wife who was born here and grew up in Chicago. We cane with 4 children. Were divorced. Shes back in the states hunting for a new sucker and im here in the home i built, gardening, making art, enjoying time on the water. Life is beautiful. People are polite. Have a plan and some balls. Life is to short.

[@pfdolin1]

I retired at 48 and moved to Thailand with my wife and son (both Thai citizens) about 23 years ago. I live about 4 hours north of Bangkok and medical treatment has always been affordable and medications cheap doctors good, but you do need someone with you at your bedside - no 24hr nursing care even in private hospital. Quality of goods is OK although when I first got here it did seem like goods from other countries were working all right but had some imperfection, so they got dumped here in Thailand. Since most things have only a one-year warranty that hasn't been an issue. I live in a city so ambulance service is available - you have to call the hospital - out in the country back of a pickup truck is best you can hope for. My wife died 6 years ago from cancer - married for 43 years - so the falling down I can't get up scenario is creeping into my thoughts lately. Really hard to find some you can trust especially where $$ is concerned.

[@zenrando]

I keep thinking of moving to Thailand. The US is going nuts.

[@nala3038]

@@zenrandoThe US has gone to hell in a handbasket

[@colonelfustercluck486]

pfdolin1.... hi, I went thru similar as you. After my wife died, I was screwed legally with immigration matters. I packed my bags and left. Not because I wanted to, but my full residency required her signature... just a few days after she died. So I was doomed in that country. I had to leave. I miss that country. (Nearby the country that you are at) I am back in my own country now.... in a cosy flat. But with a totally relaxed mind. No more worrying about staying legal and who is going to look after me or rip me off. Think very hard about getting back to your country, or another similar one where you can be legal, and getting any Government social benefits that are due to you.

[@Gaza-vu6gl]

I’ve seen first hand what the health care system is. Friend had a stroke. Her husband backwards and forwards to the pharmacy. Public hospital in Angeles city was an eye opener. Poor souls in cubicles with cats walking around. It’s shocked me. Dozens of issues to navigate through in the Philippines if things go right or wrong. Most cases your on your own

[@acornsucks2111]

What do cats have to do with anything?

[@joyblevins8712]

​@acornsucks2111 there were feral cats running around the hospital I have seen them

[@MindFusion-ij1xl]

@@joyblevins8712 Spitball: Keeps the rat population down?

[@grandpapeteswordsofwisdom7114]

As a Canadian living in the Philippines I agree with everything you said.

[@wells7147]

Don't simply retire from something; have something to retire to.

[@FegWay]

Financial education is what we need right now for more than 70% of the society in the country as very few are literate on the subject. Thanks to Stacey Macken, the woman that changed my financial life.

[@tryleraaron9244]

I know this woman you just mentioned. Stacey Macken is a portfolio manager and investment advisor. She gained recognition as the first female trader educator; a renowned investor she is. Stacey has demonstrated expertise in investment strategies and has been involved in managing portfolios and providing guidance to clients.

[@WelseyWalker]

Honestly, I'm surprised that this mrs Stacey Macken is mentioned here, came across a testimony about her from one of the beneficiaries on the CNBC news, she seems to be doing extremely well .

[@FranklyHunt]

I have been on the wrong side for far long and I'm willing to make consultations to improve my situation. What is the most reliable medium to reach her please?

[@arktom7335]

She often interacts on facebook , using the user name

[@NeilBaker-n4u]

If you wait until you're in the Philippines to apply for Social Security benefits, it will take 60 to 90 days rather than 30 days if you apply in USA. You can call them only on Tuesday or Thursday and only between 8am and 11am.

[@thaidawg9231]

The Philippines SS office took about 5 months to get my SS going.

[@NeilBaker-n4u]

@@thaidawg9231 wonderful

[@johnllyod4360]

I grew up in the philippines and im planning to bring my americans family back in the island... to all foreigners you need to study the sorrounding first before you make a big move... enjoy the beach and hire a maid a driver who can drives you around... let money talks and learn the island culture for your own safety... Remember this.... bad guys in philippines have the biggest smile in the island.

[@garyt7232]

The Philippines gives guys the opportunity for a second chance at life. Thank you for not sugarcoating what life is like there. All the best to you, Jen, and Rogan.

[@everymanhasastory]

Thank you for watching and for taking the time to comment 😀

[@aminahforever4277]

Thanks for all these valuable advises, Mark. You left us videos, we could learn from. You stated realities which not a lot of us are really prepared to face in the future. I value this special video as I relate much with what you mentioned. As a Filipino living overseas, I do encounter issues of trust amongst the Filipinos, they be relatives, friends, neighbour or anyone. The medical system is very bad and getting sick is scary especially so if you do not have any funds. May you rest in peace, Mark. Thank you

[@NAVIETVET72]

Was in the US NAVY 1972 to 1993. During the 70's and 80's in and out of the Philippines many times. I married a Filipina (50 years now). One thing for sure is if you move to the PI with a local woman you marry the ENTIRE family and I mean the ENTIRE family. You find out there are family members that come out of the woodwork. You are expected to dole out the money. HEALTH is the Biggest issue there. Good video.

[@colonelfustercluck486]

you are correct. It is serious in SE Asia, not just Philippines. The pressure goes onto your wife, and she has to bring the matters up with you, about school fee's, school uniforms, 2x pigs for grandads farm.... oh f*ck, the fence is broken and the pigs escaped.... get a fence and 3 more pigs,..... oh Grannies gen-set needs replacing. This needs doing. Or the tractor or whatever shat itself and it will cost to get it repaired. This isn't just your partner and her parents economic needs.... it is for the brothers and sisters and auntie and uncles and anyone that can claim some sort of family connection. And their kids. It is customary or traditional obligations. Remember the phrase: CUSTOMARY OBLIGATIONS. It will become increasingly more relevant to you after some time spent, living in their country. Forget those 'obligations', and you will have big relationship problems. Go with it, and you will still have problems.

[@sagepirotess6312]

Visited once, hated it. No desire to return. Saying that visited Vietnam many tines. Eventually built a life here.

[@chrisbunka]

Saigon? Da Nang? Hanoi?

[@sagepirotess6312]

@@chrisbunka built a 3 story house 200 meters from beach in nha trang. 2023. And this year bought a small holiday home in sapa

[@chrisbunka]

@@sagepirotess6312 My hat is off to you! I am sure you’re very proud of them.

[@Dan-q6v1v]

For me, I can't get over the fact that so many GIs died over there. A friend I know, had an uncle that was disabled from that war. They warned me when i spent the night there, that he would wake up every night with horrible nightmares, reliving what he experienced on the battlefield. I saw first hand the consequences of that war. And for those reasons I cannot visit the country.

[@TheUrantia001]

@@sagepirotess6312 on commie land that you can't own though...the corruption is less in phillipines....

[@dargardargar]

Very insightful. I appreciate it.

[@akololomo4021]

Been fallowing you since you started. Great information for lots of ppl. Well spoken

[@Steve7318]

This is a good reality check. I've also been here over 6 years and I've lived both in the city and province. There is no 911, life alert. There was a neighbor that dropped Dead at church during the Christmas season. I think they were trying to get him into a car but there's no ambulance to call. Think hard about where you want to live. I'm 50 and I'm living here. I'm not sure if I want to do this at 70. You're taking a calculated risk.

[@everymanhasastory]

Thank you for watching and for taking the time to share your experiences 😊

[@rubyparchment5523]

After 60, it gets real. I avoided medical tests for 20 years, ended up with advanced female cancer at 67. Now, I take the medical care, would be afraid to not have it.

[@gregdixon5848]

Omg wise words from the other side. RIP Mark and thanks for all the entertainment.

[@HuangHwei]

(1) Looking for a Modern Hospitals?Just go to Cebu (the closest island from Dumaguete). (2) No Emergency Hotline in Phi?Wrong Buddy. Davao City has 911, Metro Cebu has ERUF 161, etc. Different City, Different Hotline and they do have ModernAmbulance and even Air Ambulance (3) 30 HypertensionTabs cost $12 at the MercuryDrugstores. Much cheaper at the General Hospitals (4) Phi has All-Inclusive PostPaid and PrePaid HMO providers like Maxicare, Medicard, Axa etc. (5) No Mailman in Phi?Wrong again Buddy. Maybe in Dumaguete. (6) You can actually pay hospital bills with your debit cards without necessarily entrusting your card to other person to withdraw a cash for you (7)Not everything in Phi is made in China and not all Made in China products in Phi are jerry built - DJI, BYD, Huawei, Li-Ning Shoes, Anker, UGreen etc (8) No Return, No Refund or Exchange is illegal and considered a deceptive sales act.

[@bhaireddy7972]

If I have a heart attack and I’m single with no one to help me how am I going to pay the hospital? It’s my understanding they won’t treat you without payment. My fear is being unconscious and passing away only because a payment wasn’t received

[@swlc5555]

I've never visited the Philippines, but am one of those considering it- so I'm completely neutral on these subjects. I would be interested hearing him respond to what you said in another video. This might be a good reason for a guy doing his homework on various locations to live, finding out what is and what is not available, and to choose accordingly.

[@skjoe1115]

Wow. Well said. You've done your homework. I lived in Mozambique for a long time. Talk about deprivation? And I'm rich....

[@Red-n5r]

@@skjoe1115 By what standards?

[@Red-n5r]

I'm sure he was only speaking of Dumaguete where he and lots of expats reside. The point I believe he's making is that in general, the Philippines is a 3rd world nation lacking western norms and conveniences.

[@jackbrown8052]

With regard to healthcare in the Philippines there are nursing schools in the Philippines that teach a 4 year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree entirely in English. The nursing course follows a curriculum from the USA (California?). Graduates of these schools then move abroad. Many to the US where they get their RN designation and start working for about $75K a year.

[@cobracommander9138]

And everyone in the Philippines know it's one of the best ways to getting a US Visa.

[@colonelfustercluck486]

The Philippine nurses are well known and respected around the world.

[@scottjackson163]

Great video. A major service to those considering retirement in the Philippines. You won’t see me there. 🤝

[@Asia-p1p3b]

Philippines is no longer on list best places to retire!

[@samual3006]

The most sensible comment 👏 I've read 📚. Nobody in their right mind would think life could be any better in this 💩 hole.

[@expatlifestyle2000]

Great and Honest video. Thanks Mark.

[@johnminichielli8957]

My father and I did remote adventure travel until he couldn't do it anymore into his early 90s. We would fly in and get dropped off in some of the most remote places on the planet. We knew that the smallest injury could result in losing your life. Living your life worrying if there is someone there to rescue you if you get in trouble is not living. It's only been for a little more than 100 years that worrying about this has entered our lives. We are all going to die. Enjoy life without worrying about dying, or in the end, you will leave with regrets..

[@carollynt]

Planning to avoid a reckless death isn’t the same as worrying about dying.

[@johng4093]

Dying needlessly is overrated. 😂

[@colonelfustercluck486]

everyone dies, whether you worry about it, or not. So it's not a problem.....

[@markwilliamson2795]

Yep I'm staying on USA soil

[@stephenantonicelli7069]

Visit for vacation. Then escape to USA..:-)

[@karlhans6678]

Can i meet girls while on vacation?

[@woutergijs5246]

I do know some Belgians who lived many years in Thailand. But eventually came back home. Old, sick, broke. Settling in with a child or relative , fading away.

[@johncarlson6472]

It's too bad they were broke, because Thailand has some great Convalescent Homes from what I've seen.

[@aggierowe9574]

Excellent video! There are pros and cons to retiring abroad, esp if you’re a westerner. This video hopefully forces one to be brutally honest with themselves, not just seeing PH as a cheap place to retire. I think it’s a great place to visit, but don’t think I’d want to live there. I don’t think I could handle the heat, all the noise, the brownouts and the cheap quality of goods. Yet I love the people, most of them are kind, speak English.

[@mgtowmonger2729]

This is why you have multiple bank accounts and only put what you're going to withdraw or use or have for emergencies... and never use the same passcode for all the cards... this way your wife, girlfriend, 'trusted friend' cannot damage your finances that much! you may be better off using law firms... although lawyers are lawyers, you may need multiple ones handling different cards and have them ready to knife each other if things go wrong down the road... but with limited amounts in each account, again they can only drain so much. i've done this in mexico since i began traveling to mexico when i was 26 (and that's also when i stopped dating western women lol).

[@marcuscicero538]

As Brother Vention would say..."and don't get married"

[@mgtowmonger2729]

@@marcuscicero538 100%!!!!!

[@MindFusion-ij1xl]

To sidestep carrying a valuable card, or lending it, or other hazards, how about a pocket full of 500 dollar gift cards? I wonder if there is some unseen downside?

[@CheckYourPremises]

All great points. The question is.... who can you really trust?

[@acornsucks2111]

Nobody there.

[@AJourneyOfYourSoul]

No one. In your greatest time of need they will take advantage of you.

[@acornsucks2111]

@@AJourneyOfYourSoul And when you are most vulnerable.

[@Dan-q6v1v]

That is the very scary part!

[@rovli816]

None

[@DanRobison-u7i]

You know I was married to a Filipina and I went to the Philippines and I’ve met a new Filipino but when I see your comments and I see how difficult it is to operate over there I’m not sure why I would lower my standards for less quality of life, even though this woman that I know is incredible I would part of the time in Canada and visit maybe 3-4 times a year.. I know men who are doing this and it works better. She’s a widow very smart very bright 18 grandchildren, but I have a feeling my money is going to deplete very quickly when I have to start helping the grandchildren and her children.

[@daffyduk77]

You would become the "Bank of Mum & Dad" as we call it in the UK. All in 1 person, for easier access

[@victoriatorcolini4410]

Yours is an older man's Cinderella story. Blessings to you! 😊

[@CassieDavis613]

Mark, this is an excellent video. Great job.

[@mikemonroy1]

Good info. Thank you. US Navy retired.visited Philippines Western Pacific deployment (1984 &1986). Lived in the Philippines Subic Bay (1987 - 1991). The US Navy. It is not a job. It is an adventure. "Go Navy"

[@everymanhasastory]

Thank you for watching and for taking the time to comment 😀

[@BobDobbs681]

Great insights. Thanks for sharing, Mark.

[@everymanhasastory]

Thank you for watching ☺️

[@KevinG-159]

Mark- The first video I watched of yours was the "Harsh realities of life after 60" This has to be the BEST straight forward video I've ever watched and it came at a perfect time for me! I've watched it 4 times and have forwarded it more! Now I see this video and I'm wondering why did you move there? Using your advice in the first video would have been perfect for life in America in some rural area outside a big city? Having said that, I know nothing about you, your journey or your past in the U.S., career or anything and I apologize for that up front. Like you said in the first video, "I'm not afraid of death but dying scares the shit out of me..." If I can help it, I won't suffer in a meat wagon on the way to a so called hospital! Again, I'm very happy finding your channel and listening to your advice. Just hit 70 and so much of what you said has hit home for me. Take care of your family and best wishes for your future! P.S. I'm done with my Lisinopril and have plenty to send ya! LOL

[@everymanhasastory]

I love living in the Philippines. But I didn't want to sugar coat it. There are challenges. Thank you for watching and for taking the time to share your thoughts 😊

[@skip2it426-]

I believe that expats should have a clear sense of expectations and know what they want. It’s not a fantasy although some think it is to be in the 🇵🇭. But as the saying goes without a plan one plans to fail no doubt. We should always be very careful who we allow to have access to us. They can affect everything: our finances, our vibe, our energy, our peace. Because often they are bringing with them negativity. Thanks for sharing real life 🇵🇭 video. ✌🏾👌🏾👍🏾!

[@driftwoodsmittyasia1286]

Been using the Amazon 49$ thing....got me a new Samsung tablet and it arrived in 7 days...I was astonished

[@cmbooks2000]

Never before have I heard an expat speak this kind of truth. Thank you. Good luck

[@jtaylor-fi5bd]

TY YOU are the first guy to lay it out like it really is instead of painting the standard unrealistic paradise picture .

[@tobywebb6452]

Yes there are issues, but it beats the hell out of living in the UK and seeing the destruction of our once great country

[@jimle22]

Same thing in America. Hopefully DJT will make it better.

[@edoar7202]

@@jimle22 Lol!

[@YTBEN1045]

​@jimle22 yes he will make it better! We have to vote and make him win though...

[@acornsucks2111]

@@jimle22 Trump or bust.

[@segarnyagold1014]

@@edoar7202 what’s funny? Trump definitely didn’t let in a crap ton of unvetted 3rd world migrants to the USA or UK. If you can’t see the difference btwn the effects of a MAGA type administration on the USA / UK vs a WEF one, at this point…. But yeah, a LOT of damage has been done

[@nickmondo222]

Time and time again i watch your vids. Time and time again I am so happy I chose Thailand. Each to their own, but I cannot understand why someone wants to live in PH. Rents high, yet quality is low. Food costs high, yet quality is low. Internet costs high, yet quality is low.........I could go on.......

[@everymanhasastory]

I understand. But for me the Philippines works. Language is a big plus.

[@Kim-sc6sj]

Thank you, Mark. A word to the wise is sufficient.

[@peterfischer7084]

On what basis can you gauge the quality of a hospital? Do they publish any criteria like e.g. rates of infections after operations, umbers of patients per nurse etc ?

[@jameskirk2905]

I’ve been there twice and see no reason to move from Arkansas to there. Everything takes 4 times longer to get done.

[@oncall21]

Great video Mark. Fore armed is fore warned. The grass isn’t always greener. Thanks for sharing.

[@jerryfagansr9983]

My problem is my doctor will prescribe me the American drugs i need. Cant find any pharmacys that have it..

[@colonelfustercluck486]

Maybe, but maybe you will just have to investigate the same drug with a different local name. I used to move around between countries and needed 2 or 3 different drugs..... in some cases I ended up with a drug with a different name, that did the same thing.

[@williammit1332]

Lisinopril $16 for 200 tablets 50mg here in Thailand

[@amvet5387]

My wife switched to losartan because lisinopril made her cough constantly

[@scottramey4443]

Wowza. Thats great

[@bettywith2girls]

@@amvet5387 Wow. Me too! That's what I encountered also. Was shocked that was a well known side affect to Lisinopril.

[@Preciouspink]

It is noted as an allergy in your medical records.Or should be.

[@poorman2457]

Medication is fairly cheap in PH. You need to shop around. You guys are quibbling over $20 a month at most.

[@glimmer289]

Thank you so much for this video and the information. I have been considering retiring to the Philippines, for all the usual things, but your video answered a lot of my questions and concerns-I am staying where I am now (Europe). FYI: I have dual nationality (UK & USA) and have been trying to get a non lucrative visa for Spain for nearly 18 months now! Yes, retiring abroad is not easy.

[@Brian-gg8kp]

I visit America once a year and am always ready to leave the US. It is a work in progress but after 10 years of visiting PH I'm good. Health issues concern me most. If i didn't like it here I would move to Thailand or somewhere else. Mark is absolutely right about having a mate and support. Must have a steady flow of income and stay with US banking.

[@LorryHill]

This is interesting; especially the part where you talk about not letting TV and other electronics etc steal time away from your loved ones- I just think that there’s such a thing as balance in life and there’s also too much time with people lol; yes you may want it back when their gone BUT there’s enjoyment to be had in television and electronics too. This enjoyment is also part of a good life. Good video

[@outbackretirement]

Just stumbled upon your channel. You supply very useful information. Wish I'd found you earlier. Thanks!

[@ErwinZado]

Go to Rustan's in Ayalla Cebu-City ther you can get quality !!!

[@scottmullis4230]

Great Video Mark. I think it's great that you don't sugar coat it and tell it like it is. These are all things I have thought about. But you living there for as long as you have and the friends you have there give your viewers a great insight to living in the Philippines. I got married to a girl from the Philippines in 2022. We will either settle here in the States or back there in the Philippines in the future. I have an outstanding wife, I have known her for over 5 years now. She is from near the ILOILO City area. Thanks for your Video's Mark. I watch them quite often.

[@grandguy_23]

I've spent my birthday and Christmas in Bangkok Pattaya Hospital. Many nurses checking on me, brought me a birthday cake. For being stuck in a hospital, not too bad. But it's Thailand.

[@anon6243]

Thanks for your rigorous honesty and willingness to share as Paul Harvey used to say, "the rest of the story". In an age where the norm is fakery, falsehood, half truths and basically propaganda whether political, commercial or cultural, hearing a version closer to reality, fact based truths no matter how harsh it maybe is more a blessing and refreshing than living or believing in a lie. Integrity always trumps deception and lies. You've obviously been blessed in spite of the hardships and challenges you've faced over the years. Kudos to you. Reap the rewards you've earned whether be it through paying your dues or living in your dharma.

[@everymanhasastory]

Thank you for watching and for taking the time to share your thoughts 😊 I appreciate your kind words

[@BobSimmons-y6i]

If you are thinking about moving there grom Calif just go live in Tijunana, mex for 6 mos and you will understand the conditions there

[@gensanx1237]

Been to the Philippines 9 times with my wife. We live in London. All those reasons are very honest and true and it's why BOTH of us don't want to live there. It's just TOO MUCH HASSLE. Having experienced probably a couple of years of it in total. Just couldn't be bothered

[@aaronprince6706]

THANK' YOU FOR TELLING US THE TRUTH. THE PHILIPPINE IS BEAUTIFUL, BUT IT'S JUST NOT FOR ME. I ENJOY WATCHING AND SHARING YOUR UH VIDEOS. KEEP UP WITH THE WONDERFUL WORK !

[@rusted5408]

Good on ya for realizing that. Most dont.

[@Michaelw777.52]

All excellent advice.

[@bobjohnson7441]

Well-intentioned and to the point. Refreshing.

[@timnisbet2078]

Good advice !!

[@paulaneary7877]

Personally I think this is an excellent video. Let's people know that just because they have a bit of money it's not necessarily paradise. Lots of things to consider. Not the least of which is losing a lot of contact with people back home. Good honest information here.

[@1chessman]

Superb information, Mark. You definitely provided rarely expressed perspective on very important aspects of starting a new life in the Philippines. Truly, thank you. Wishing you and your beautiful family all the very best.

[@blueflame3081]

Thanks for your refreshing honesty. Much better to make life-changing decisions with your eyes wide open.

[@nickkrug8157]

You better all understand it's always about the money it's always been about the money it's always going to be about the money you better get that through your thick head

[@adjusted-bunny]

Hang in there, Mark!

[@alowens9000]

No thanks. I’ll stay out of the Philippines 🇵🇭. Not worth it.

[@glenh4971]

Very good video. I am retired and live in Panama. I know, this is a Philippines video but much of what you are talking about applies to any country that you move to. I have been in Panama since 2009. I have lost contact with everyone that I used to know in the US. I am not Panamanian so I do not have a network of people that I can depend on. I am fortunate in that I do have a wife to assist me with things as I age. But there is no help for most of us as we age when we live outside the US. You pretty much walk alone as an Xpat. You have to learn to deal with that reality. Having been in Panama for many years I noticed that most Xpats come and go. They just go back to where they came from.

[@anathardayaldar]

What are the chances that the pharmaceuticals you do buy there are counterfeit? If quality is such a low priority in other things.

[@joebazooks]

nice to hear a realistic summary of some potential issues instead of only or unrealistically positive perspectives

[@everymanhasastory]

I try to keep it real. Thank you for watching ☺️

[@beth4698]

At least $ 10- 20K for medical emergencies if they can even diagnose you accurately and on time.

[@markhindmarsh9360]

You are correct about the mail system when I sent mail from New Zealand. You pay for priority delivery and it can take months to turn up if you not in Manila.

[@jazzpianotactics]

Loaf of white bread in Philippines = 85 cents. At Kroger, 4$. Just 1 example

[@MargaretGSmith-c1q]

A loaf of bread doesn’t tell the whole story.

[@Cool_Breeze_Rockies]

@@MargaretGSmith-c1q Correct. Minimum wage PH = $10.00/day. Minimum wage US = $160/day. That means the 85 cent bread is way overpriced.

[@rcas350pilot8]

Id rather be in the US and pay the 4 bux at Kroger.

[@carollynt]

Minimum wage in the United States (federal) is $58 per day.

[@Cool_Breeze_Rockies]

@@carollynt LOL, maybe in the 70s. My nephew just got his first job at McDonald's and is pulling down 20/hour. You should be making twice that if you are doing anything productive.

[@guysavoy626]

Thanks Mark. A lot of helpful info here.

[@janmares256]

Very good honest video - thank you for that! Keep up the good work.

[@prancer4743]

RIP mark rest in peace 🥲🥹😔🪦

[@beachbum4691]

Solid valuable insights, this video of truths is more valuable I suspect than the person who posted it realises, thank you "young-sir". At 81' I suspect I'm older than you are?. More than I realised, everything in the Philippines seems to be a cross between India and a range of other Third World countries. (perhaps reinforcing the value of travelling very widely before you settle anywhere?) Great video, it touched on a broad range of difficulties. :)

[@chaseroberts3111]

very informative video, I'm glad you started out with the number one reason not to move to P.I., medical. I'm your age born in 1955, lived in P.I. 1975-1978 my dad was with the U.S. embassy. Best years of my life, but at 69 have too many medical issues to even think about moving to P.I. Men our age have to be very realistic about what we can and cannot do anymore

[@hauntedandAloneFB]

Loving life so far in Vigan city 5 years. 🤘🤘. Wife’s a doctor mother laws a doctor so we’re covered 🇵🇭💞

[@elizabethlandry1691]

Thanks for your input ….

[@Charles-y5d]

I've been here 3 years and then in the hospital twice and you're right there is no 911. How many hour away from the hospital on the fire ever have a hard attack i don't know what the heck i would do. One thing though it's free there's no charge for ambulance

[@Red-n5r]

Great stuff, as always.

[@louisburlingham6249]

Great advise sir im a first time viewer

[@everymanhasastory]

Thank you for watching ☺️

[@steveng8727]

Was living in the Philippines for 3 years, recently returned to the states in the nick of time as had some heart issues requiring extensive and expensive tests but covered by MediCare.

[@johnnyg7899]

I decided long ago that whereever I live in the Philippines, that since the land will never be mine and nothing is permanent, that the home I invest in will be a gift for whomever I am in a relationship with. That way if things workout good - I stay. If it dosen't - I will always have a plan B and leave if necessary. If I ever experience that I will not be in any hurry to get into another relationship. Same goes with money. Never loan anything and if I do help someone it will be a gift expecting nothing in return.

[@mike.p.1400]

Four months now. In the province. Very tough. I find the Philippines to be a giant toilet bowl. If it wasn’t for my wife I’d be gone.

[@garypayne9612]

Well mike I am married to a Philippina and we are both retired and live in southern Calif. My wife goes back to the Philippines to visit family every year in Davao City where she grew up, she’s always glad to get back to the U.S. and she agrees with you that the Philippines is one giant toilet bowel.

[@stevensalt3683]

Haha, my thoughts also, 1 year in...and getting worse!

[@mike.p.1400]

@@stevensalt3683 it’s terrible. The bugs are killing me.

[@rolandjacobs6227]

​@@mike.p.1400And are they killing you Softly ??????

[@mike.p.1400]

@ yes they are Roland.