I guess with my luck it would be too much to expect that two successive annual trips to the Bureau of Immigration to pay the annual report, (a P310 yearly "head tax" required of resident alien residents), would go off without a hitch.. On two such treks, one in 2009 and the other in 2010, I was robbed and pickpocketed respectively en route. Fortunately I had no such incidents in 2011.
This year, I did not wind up a crime victim when I went to the satellite office in Makati a few weeks ago. But almost as bad was the news from that office. They would be unable to process the annual report for my wife Lydia because unbeknownst to us, her ACR-ICR I-card had expired. This biometric piece of plastic with an embedded computer chip serves mainly as a form of identity and streamlines many of the cardholder's B.I. dealings. All foreign permanent residents in the Philippines are required to have one. Unfortunately, Lydia's and my cards don't show an expiration date which we learned is 5 years from the date of issue. According to Immigration, the newer "models" now display this ending date.
Obtaining a replacement requires a trip to the main B.I. headquarters in Manila (Intramuros district). It was with extreme trepidation that I faced the prospect of going to that office. I recalled from years past how decrepit and poorly maintained the facilities were, with a matching attitude of its employees. But at least Lydia wouldn't have to endure this hassle. As a senior, she is exempted by Immigration from such appearances . As her spouse, I could do that for her.
My last visit to B.I. headquarters was about four years ago. So when I arrived there yesterday, I was pleasantly surprised at how much the place had improved. The exterior had been given a facelift, but more importantly, the inside given a complete renovation, including the C.R's.(restrooms) which previously could only have been described as abominable, and that's putting it nicely. The customer service also seems friendlier, and there are roving information reps to answer questions and direct applicants to the appropriate areas.
When I arrived at about 6:30 a.m, there were already people seated waiting for the service windows to open at 7:00. Within a few hours the place was packed. (Unfortunately, the interior makeover didn't include adding more space). Woe unto those who arrive late. Not only will there be fewer or no seats left but their waiting time for service will be much longer. This is why it's essential to arrive as early as possible; You snooze, you lose. Yet, even though I was among the first batch of people to be serviced, the entire process still took about 3 1/2 hours. (Note: B.I. transactions differ in complexity. Your time may vary. So take along something to pass the hour(s). And due to the above mentioned physical space limitations and seating, it's advisable to limit the number of your companions.)
Speaking of batches, one reason for the long wait is that when applicants turn in their forms to the clerks at the service windows for processing, as the forms are completed, they are placed in a pile. A department worker then emerges with the stack and calls out the names of and distributes these forms to those who are awaiting them.Obviously, it's important to stand by and not to miss such a "call out" announcement. The next one may not be for another 45 minutes or so Then it's on the next window to start the process all over again.
Finally I was finished. It was such a feeling of relief knowing that not only had I completed this task but also that Lydia's annual report fee was also automatically collected upon payment for the card. I was given a claim check to present when picking up the new card, which should be available in about three weeks.
Right about that time, my own I-card will near its expiration date, so when I retrieve Lydia's card. I can also renew mine as well. Hopefully, it will take less time to go through the mill the second time around. For despite the improvement in service, there were a few missteps including procedural miscommunications that I now know to avoid. I wouldn't say that I'm looking forward to going back there, but with the Bureau of Immigration's new look and feel, at least I no longer dread it.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Saturday, January 7, 2012
The Big Bang
The numbers are in. Metro-Manila deaths and injuries over the New Years holiday from fireworks mishaps and stray bullets were overall greater than last year's figures despite hopes by the authorities for a decrease in such casualties.
Adding to this sad state of affairs this year on which should be a festive occasion was the extreme air pollution on New Years morning. This was caused by the soot and ashes drifting over the city from the large number of firecrackers that celebrators began setting off in the morning of Dec. 31. This smog is a yearly event, but due to wind conditions, this year visibility was so severely hampered that incoming air traffic had to be diverted from the Aquino International Airport to other facilities
So given the hazards posed by pyrotechnics, should they be banned from Metro Manila except as authorized public display events? At first glance, that seems like the impossible dream. Fireworks, especially individual use of firecrackers to celebrate various holidays, are a deeply ingrained tradition in the Philippines. Stemming from centuries old Chinese cultural influence, the custom was originally based on the belief that the loud noise from firecrackers would drive away evil spirits. But now they are simply a source of holiday fun, sometimes the malicious kind. In the rough parts of Manila, revelers even throw lit firecrackers at passersby.
This leads to another difficulty in enacting a ban on private possession: the lack of public discipline in Philippine society. There are probably as many safety laws on the books in the here as there are in Denmark. But they're nearly impossible to enforce when so few people obey them and public officials charged with enforcing them are bribed to look the other way. So would a statute banning these explosives be worthless?
Not necessarily. Believe it or not, there are firecracker-free zones in the Philippines. One of them is Davao City (population approx 1.5 million) where 94 people were arrested for violating the prohibition and which had zero injuries caused by fireworks over the holiday and as a result, hospitals there were not swamped as they were in Metro-Manila.
To be sure, the problem of dangerous fireworks is just one of many problems besetting Metro-Manila. However, solving them requires the exercise of political will. Maybe imposing a ban and actually implementing it might send a message that the government is getting serious about improving public safety by penalizing personal irresponsibility. It would be a small step, but at least it's one in the right direction.
Adding to this sad state of affairs this year on which should be a festive occasion was the extreme air pollution on New Years morning. This was caused by the soot and ashes drifting over the city from the large number of firecrackers that celebrators began setting off in the morning of Dec. 31. This smog is a yearly event, but due to wind conditions, this year visibility was so severely hampered that incoming air traffic had to be diverted from the Aquino International Airport to other facilities
So given the hazards posed by pyrotechnics, should they be banned from Metro Manila except as authorized public display events? At first glance, that seems like the impossible dream. Fireworks, especially individual use of firecrackers to celebrate various holidays, are a deeply ingrained tradition in the Philippines. Stemming from centuries old Chinese cultural influence, the custom was originally based on the belief that the loud noise from firecrackers would drive away evil spirits. But now they are simply a source of holiday fun, sometimes the malicious kind. In the rough parts of Manila, revelers even throw lit firecrackers at passersby.
This leads to another difficulty in enacting a ban on private possession: the lack of public discipline in Philippine society. There are probably as many safety laws on the books in the here as there are in Denmark. But they're nearly impossible to enforce when so few people obey them and public officials charged with enforcing them are bribed to look the other way. So would a statute banning these explosives be worthless?
Not necessarily. Believe it or not, there are firecracker-free zones in the Philippines. One of them is Davao City (population approx 1.5 million) where 94 people were arrested for violating the prohibition and which had zero injuries caused by fireworks over the holiday and as a result, hospitals there were not swamped as they were in Metro-Manila.
To be sure, the problem of dangerous fireworks is just one of many problems besetting Metro-Manila. However, solving them requires the exercise of political will. Maybe imposing a ban and actually implementing it might send a message that the government is getting serious about improving public safety by penalizing personal irresponsibility. It would be a small step, but at least it's one in the right direction.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Taxi Strand
Every year beginning In December, there's an increase in traffic in Metro Manila as more people are out and about doing their Christmas shopping, attending holiday parties, etc. So along with more private vehicles on the road, there's also a greater demand on public transportation. But this year it seems especially acute for some reason, especially when it comes to the (un)availability of taxis.
To prevent disorder and confusion, most shopping malls and some mixed use business residential areas such as Eastwood City provide taxi bays where passengers are required to line up and await their turn for the next cab, Usually, there is a string or at least a couple taxis waiting for them anyway; so it's win-win for taxi drivers and passengers alike.
But over the past week or so, no matter what day of the week or time of the day, I've observed and personally experienced situations where there are these queues but no taxis at hand to accommodate them. One evening last week my wife Lydia and I waited in line in Eastwood for almost two hours. Granted it was raining and during evening rush hour. But the other day during early afternoon and in good weather, there was also a lack of cabs, this time in Cubao, a popular shopping locale in Quezon City. I was in a hurry and taking a chance by leaving the taxi bay where I had been waiting for awhile, I finally managed to catch one further up the street. Lydia also had a long wait late morning yesterday at another mall where she had been dropped off by a bus on her return trip from the province. Carrying baggage didn't make the delay any easier.
So if you don't drive and are planning to take a taxi in Metro-Manila between now and Christmas especially for a trip that involves a shopping area, be sure to allow extra time (at least an hour during rush hour) and consider other forms of public transportation. Alternatively, see if it's possible to catch a ride with friends or family members. If you chip in for gas and / or parking, they may welcome your presence to defray the cost of driving. It may not be convenient to have to rely on another person's schedule this way, but it may well beat the frustration of vainly trying to flag down cabs that don't stop as they are already occupied, or alternately of waiting for hours in taxi bay queues that are...just...not... moving.
To prevent disorder and confusion, most shopping malls and some mixed use business residential areas such as Eastwood City provide taxi bays where passengers are required to line up and await their turn for the next cab, Usually, there is a string or at least a couple taxis waiting for them anyway; so it's win-win for taxi drivers and passengers alike.
But over the past week or so, no matter what day of the week or time of the day, I've observed and personally experienced situations where there are these queues but no taxis at hand to accommodate them. One evening last week my wife Lydia and I waited in line in Eastwood for almost two hours. Granted it was raining and during evening rush hour. But the other day during early afternoon and in good weather, there was also a lack of cabs, this time in Cubao, a popular shopping locale in Quezon City. I was in a hurry and taking a chance by leaving the taxi bay where I had been waiting for awhile, I finally managed to catch one further up the street. Lydia also had a long wait late morning yesterday at another mall where she had been dropped off by a bus on her return trip from the province. Carrying baggage didn't make the delay any easier.
So if you don't drive and are planning to take a taxi in Metro-Manila between now and Christmas especially for a trip that involves a shopping area, be sure to allow extra time (at least an hour during rush hour) and consider other forms of public transportation. Alternatively, see if it's possible to catch a ride with friends or family members. If you chip in for gas and / or parking, they may welcome your presence to defray the cost of driving. It may not be convenient to have to rely on another person's schedule this way, but it may well beat the frustration of vainly trying to flag down cabs that don't stop as they are already occupied, or alternately of waiting for hours in taxi bay queues that are...just...not... moving.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Tawdry Tales
If there's one form of diversion on which Philippine culture thrives, it's sensationalism, and the more melodramatic the better—especially if it involves well known show business celebrities and political figures. An example is a recent incident involving the high visibility and troubled Revilla family which boasts of members in both of these professions.
Bad feelings that had been brewing among the young adult siblings in this huge clan finally boiled over, the eldest, Ramgen, was shot and stabbed to death allegedly at the instigation of his sister, Ramona, and his brother, Ramon Joseph (RJ). Ramgen's girlfriend was also wounded in the attack. The motives supposedly were jealousy and conflicts over such matters as the allowance amounts that Ramgen doled out to his younger sibs. (Keep in mind these people are post-adolescent. Yet they still rely on family handouts for support. But such over-age dependency is common in the Philippines).,
RJ was apprehended, but Ramona fled the country before she could be arrested and will likely never return. She headed for Turkey where her husband resides. However, she has also left Turkey as well and is now a fugitive. To add to this telenovela-like tragedy Ramona was already in her father's bad books for marrying against his wishes.
Then there is the drama of the former Philippines president and now congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and her husband Mike who want to leave the country for treatment of Gloria's medical condition for which she claims to need specialized care that's not available in this country. Yet because of allegations that both of the Arroyos committed various acts of corruption while Gloria was in office—not to mention the illicit methods by which she supposedly attained her term as president in 2004— there is concern that they will also pull a "Ramona" and not return to face the music. The Arroyo's legal petition to be allowed to depart has pitted the executive and the judicial branches of government against each other over who has the right to make the decision. The Supreme Court had approved their plea, but President Aquino is opposed to their departure. At this writing, the executive has won the latest round by filing charges against Arroyo and placing her under arrest while she is in a local hospital. The Arroyos aren't going anywhere, at least for a while.
As an aside, Gloria Arroyo may well be trying to play on the sympathy of the Philippine people even though she was almost universally scorned while president for her corrupt deeds. But she just might win them over anyway. Former first lady Imelda Marcos did it, and it's just as though Imelda was never the wife and part of the hated martial law administration of the late president Ferdinand Marcos. She has regained her popularity and like Gloria was also elected to Congress. BTW, before the arrest warrant on Gloria was served, Mike's attorney, Ferdinand Topacio, asserted that he is so certain that if the Arroyos are allowed to leave and then fail to come back home, Topacio will castrate himself. He should be careful about putting both his eggs in one basket.
Finally, I want to make it clear that this post is strictly for the purpose of acquainting newcomers to the Philippines with local cultural mores. By my relating such stories, it should not be construed that I regularly follow such gossip-ridden events. Not me. Honest.
Bad feelings that had been brewing among the young adult siblings in this huge clan finally boiled over, the eldest, Ramgen, was shot and stabbed to death allegedly at the instigation of his sister, Ramona, and his brother, Ramon Joseph (RJ). Ramgen's girlfriend was also wounded in the attack. The motives supposedly were jealousy and conflicts over such matters as the allowance amounts that Ramgen doled out to his younger sibs. (Keep in mind these people are post-adolescent. Yet they still rely on family handouts for support. But such over-age dependency is common in the Philippines).,
RJ was apprehended, but Ramona fled the country before she could be arrested and will likely never return. She headed for Turkey where her husband resides. However, she has also left Turkey as well and is now a fugitive. To add to this telenovela-like tragedy Ramona was already in her father's bad books for marrying against his wishes.
Then there is the drama of the former Philippines president and now congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and her husband Mike who want to leave the country for treatment of Gloria's medical condition for which she claims to need specialized care that's not available in this country. Yet because of allegations that both of the Arroyos committed various acts of corruption while Gloria was in office—not to mention the illicit methods by which she supposedly attained her term as president in 2004— there is concern that they will also pull a "Ramona" and not return to face the music. The Arroyo's legal petition to be allowed to depart has pitted the executive and the judicial branches of government against each other over who has the right to make the decision. The Supreme Court had approved their plea, but President Aquino is opposed to their departure. At this writing, the executive has won the latest round by filing charges against Arroyo and placing her under arrest while she is in a local hospital. The Arroyos aren't going anywhere, at least for a while.
As an aside, Gloria Arroyo may well be trying to play on the sympathy of the Philippine people even though she was almost universally scorned while president for her corrupt deeds. But she just might win them over anyway. Former first lady Imelda Marcos did it, and it's just as though Imelda was never the wife and part of the hated martial law administration of the late president Ferdinand Marcos. She has regained her popularity and like Gloria was also elected to Congress. BTW, before the arrest warrant on Gloria was served, Mike's attorney, Ferdinand Topacio, asserted that he is so certain that if the Arroyos are allowed to leave and then fail to come back home, Topacio will castrate himself. He should be careful about putting both his eggs in one basket.
Finally, I want to make it clear that this post is strictly for the purpose of acquainting newcomers to the Philippines with local cultural mores. By my relating such stories, it should not be construed that I regularly follow such gossip-ridden events. Not me. Honest.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Second Thoughts
I have long believed that the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is part of the Philippines and should not be allowed to secede (see my post Disaster Averted for Now). But as time passes, I'm becoming doubtful that it's worth the ever increasing political, social, and financial costs for the country of trying to pacify and hold on to this territory. Maybe it's time to let the ARMM go it's own way as a separate state after all. It seems that control of this locale by the MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front, a faction of the original Moro National Liberation Front guerrilla movement) is a fait accompli anyway.
First some background about my 180° shift in opinion. I recently wrote a post "The Two-State Solution: A Risk Worth Taking" in my other Blog site "Towards a Rational America and Enlightened Judaism" regarding the Israel-Palestinian issue and why I feel that it's better for Palestinians in the Occupied Territories to have for their own state. In my opinion Israel is paying too high a price by holding these people back and that it's better for the two sides to deal with each other as equals.
In this regard there is a somewhat of a parallel between the Palestinians and the Moros in that both groups claim rights to their own land and national sovereignty. And there is some legitimate justification in their demands. Also, for decades both groups have been violently resisting and refusing to recognize the respective central governments that rule their regions. And significantly in both cases there is no end in sight for these hostilities which just become a vicious cycle of death and destruction for all concerned.
There have been cries for a declaration of all-out war against MILF for their attacks on the military in Basilan that resulted in the death of 19 soldiers a few weeks ago. Yet a full-out military campaign against the MILF was carried out in 2000 by then President Estrada. Ultimately, it achieved nothing. The conflict is back to square one.
Also I had previously justified retention of the ARMM by the Philippines on the grounds (no pun intended) of the region's abundant natural resources. Yet when considering all the thousands of people on both sides who have died in this rebellion and for the thousands more who will likely be killed in future struggles, no amount of minerals is worth such a toll in human lives. Moreover, in granting independence to the ARMM, perhaps some kind of trade agreement could be negotiated that would ensure continued access by the Philippines to these materials, along with a United Nations peace-keeping force to enforce a security treaty that would protect non-Muslims living in the Region. The UN troops would also guard against incursions by the MILF and the Philippines Government across each others borders. In addition the Government could offer resettlement into the Philippines to non-Muslims. The expenses for this relocation would be at least partially borne by the MILF.
One might ask why I as a foreigner am sticking my nose into the complex political affairs of this country. Very simply, the violence throughout Philippines and especially in Mindanao is equally lethal to Filipinos and non-Filipinos who are here. However, I readily acknowledge that I am not a political science or international relations expert. The dissolution between the Philippines And the ARMM that I'm proposing along with the details to carry it out probably sounds amateurish and naive.
But I contend that far reaching changes have to be made to the present state of affairs in order to bring about a permanent peace between the two sides. Nothing else has worked so far, and to believe that the status quo can continue to abide indefinitely is just magical thinking.
First some background about my 180° shift in opinion. I recently wrote a post "The Two-State Solution: A Risk Worth Taking" in my other Blog site "Towards a Rational America and Enlightened Judaism" regarding the Israel-Palestinian issue and why I feel that it's better for Palestinians in the Occupied Territories to have for their own state. In my opinion Israel is paying too high a price by holding these people back and that it's better for the two sides to deal with each other as equals.
In this regard there is a somewhat of a parallel between the Palestinians and the Moros in that both groups claim rights to their own land and national sovereignty. And there is some legitimate justification in their demands. Also, for decades both groups have been violently resisting and refusing to recognize the respective central governments that rule their regions. And significantly in both cases there is no end in sight for these hostilities which just become a vicious cycle of death and destruction for all concerned.
There have been cries for a declaration of all-out war against MILF for their attacks on the military in Basilan that resulted in the death of 19 soldiers a few weeks ago. Yet a full-out military campaign against the MILF was carried out in 2000 by then President Estrada. Ultimately, it achieved nothing. The conflict is back to square one.
Also I had previously justified retention of the ARMM by the Philippines on the grounds (no pun intended) of the region's abundant natural resources. Yet when considering all the thousands of people on both sides who have died in this rebellion and for the thousands more who will likely be killed in future struggles, no amount of minerals is worth such a toll in human lives. Moreover, in granting independence to the ARMM, perhaps some kind of trade agreement could be negotiated that would ensure continued access by the Philippines to these materials, along with a United Nations peace-keeping force to enforce a security treaty that would protect non-Muslims living in the Region. The UN troops would also guard against incursions by the MILF and the Philippines Government across each others borders. In addition the Government could offer resettlement into the Philippines to non-Muslims. The expenses for this relocation would be at least partially borne by the MILF.
One might ask why I as a foreigner am sticking my nose into the complex political affairs of this country. Very simply, the violence throughout Philippines and especially in Mindanao is equally lethal to Filipinos and non-Filipinos who are here. However, I readily acknowledge that I am not a political science or international relations expert. The dissolution between the Philippines And the ARMM that I'm proposing along with the details to carry it out probably sounds amateurish and naive.
But I contend that far reaching changes have to be made to the present state of affairs in order to bring about a permanent peace between the two sides. Nothing else has worked so far, and to believe that the status quo can continue to abide indefinitely is just magical thinking.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Running On Empty? Maybe Not
I'm no economist. Yet as an expat American residing in the Philippines, there are certain facets about the financial system here that I can't help but notice and which seem paradoxical for an "impoverished third world" country.
For example, as a whole, the Philippines has managed to avoid the fallout from the Great Recession and in some ways is faring better than the U.S. It's true that remittances from OFW's (overseas Filipino workers) have played an invaluable role in the economy of this country. But equally important is ensuring that this revenue reaches it's intended recipients and in turn that they and others with the means to do so have a safe place to deposit and invest their money. In this regard the banking system seems to have remained stable despite occasional scandals and failures involving individual institutions. In fact, considering all the fraud that takes place in both the public and private spheres here, it's amazing that the financial services network hasn't long since imploded. Instead, like "Old Man River", it just keeps rolling along. Likewise the Philippines Stock Exchange appears to be holding its own—no crashes and on the whole, no wild swings in stock prices.
Unlike its counterpart in the States, real estate here seems to still be a fairly safe bet, even though foreigners face certain ownership restrictions in this area. For the most part, there have been no precipitous declines in property values. If anything, buying a home is still a sound investment and is an aspiration within the reach of many middle-class Filipino families albeit with help from relatives. Part of this stability is due to the fact that home purchases here entail large down payments and short term mortgages. However, in a country where there is no mandatory title insurance—and in fact land titles and registration are often of dubious authenticity where they exist at all—this stability still flies in the face of common sense. For a much more eloquent discussion and guidance on real estate in the Philippines, visit "Phil FAQs".
Another area in which many business people in the Philippines have found their niche is franchising. Opportunities abound that may make this country a major player in this sector in Asia.
Sadly however, for the overwhelming majority of Filipinos, life is still hard. The main reason is too many people competing for resources that are too few or are inequitably distributed. Take public utilities for example. Electric bills in the Philippines are the highest in Asia, constituting on the average 11% of Filipinos' locally derived income.
Yet for many Americans, especially retirees whose sole means of support are earned benefits such as social security, life is also a struggle. For instance in parts of the U.S.that have cold winters, those on limited means may have to decide whether to spend their money either on food or on fuel for their furnaces, in other words a choice between heating and eating.
In the aforementioned case of energy bills, thanks to the rate of exchange between the U.S. dollar and the Philippine peso (currently about 43 PHP to 1 USD), along with our frugal standard of living, for my wife and me this expense represents on the average about 01.5% of our monthly U.S..earned benefits. So for foreigners whose mains source of income is social security and whose life style is not extravagant, to the extent that various economic trends here continue on a steady course, life in the Philippines can be a rewarding and comfortable experience.
For example, as a whole, the Philippines has managed to avoid the fallout from the Great Recession and in some ways is faring better than the U.S. It's true that remittances from OFW's (overseas Filipino workers) have played an invaluable role in the economy of this country. But equally important is ensuring that this revenue reaches it's intended recipients and in turn that they and others with the means to do so have a safe place to deposit and invest their money. In this regard the banking system seems to have remained stable despite occasional scandals and failures involving individual institutions. In fact, considering all the fraud that takes place in both the public and private spheres here, it's amazing that the financial services network hasn't long since imploded. Instead, like "Old Man River", it just keeps rolling along. Likewise the Philippines Stock Exchange appears to be holding its own—no crashes and on the whole, no wild swings in stock prices.
Unlike its counterpart in the States, real estate here seems to still be a fairly safe bet, even though foreigners face certain ownership restrictions in this area. For the most part, there have been no precipitous declines in property values. If anything, buying a home is still a sound investment and is an aspiration within the reach of many middle-class Filipino families albeit with help from relatives. Part of this stability is due to the fact that home purchases here entail large down payments and short term mortgages. However, in a country where there is no mandatory title insurance—and in fact land titles and registration are often of dubious authenticity where they exist at all—this stability still flies in the face of common sense. For a much more eloquent discussion and guidance on real estate in the Philippines, visit "Phil FAQs".
Another area in which many business people in the Philippines have found their niche is franchising. Opportunities abound that may make this country a major player in this sector in Asia.
Sadly however, for the overwhelming majority of Filipinos, life is still hard. The main reason is too many people competing for resources that are too few or are inequitably distributed. Take public utilities for example. Electric bills in the Philippines are the highest in Asia, constituting on the average 11% of Filipinos' locally derived income.
Yet for many Americans, especially retirees whose sole means of support are earned benefits such as social security, life is also a struggle. For instance in parts of the U.S.that have cold winters, those on limited means may have to decide whether to spend their money either on food or on fuel for their furnaces, in other words a choice between heating and eating.
In the aforementioned case of energy bills, thanks to the rate of exchange between the U.S. dollar and the Philippine peso (currently about 43 PHP to 1 USD), along with our frugal standard of living, for my wife and me this expense represents on the average about 01.5% of our monthly U.S..earned benefits. So for foreigners whose mains source of income is social security and whose life style is not extravagant, to the extent that various economic trends here continue on a steady course, life in the Philippines can be a rewarding and comfortable experience.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Feeding Frenzy
In Philippine culture, eating is not just a means of satisfying a physical requirement. It serves as a psychological fulfillment as well, and one that cuts across all socio-economic classes an genders. So it was not surprising that the topic and consequences of “emotional eating”—using food as a means of escape from personal problems—recently came to the fore as related by Sharon Cuneta, a popular local actress and unofficial spokesperson for whom this phenomenon predictably resulted in weight control problems, as it does for so many people.
And no wonder. Because of its soothing and other pleasant sensory effects, eating is practically a recreational pastime here as well, especially as a group activity with family and friends. And it’s everywhere. For instance, when traveling through towns and the countryside, just glance out the window of your vehicle and you will see table after table of people gathered together in their yards or at roadside eateries enjoying a meal. I will bet that food sales, whether they are transacted by street and market stall vendors or in upscale restaurants and everything in between, likely comprise a disproportionate share of the Philippine economy compared with this type of commerce in other countries.
Filipino food (basically a melding of Malay, Spanish, and Chinese influences) is delicious and diverse. And my wife Lydia is an excellent cook of not just native dishes but various other cuisines as well. Fortunately, neither of us has a weight problem—yet. Thus this local custom of consumption suits me just find. I also eat in response to emotional distress, especially certain comfort foods. So the first time that I heard the phrase "emotional eating", my immediate reaction was "What, is there another kind?".
However, it should be emphasized that healthful eating is certainly a viable option in the Philippines. Many fruits and vegetables here such as papaya and malunggay are highly nutritious. It's just that foods with high cholesterol and fat content such as crispy pata and lechon are also the most tempting and sought after.
Meals themselves for the immediate family usually consist of at least two main dishes. When entertaining guests, three entrees are the usual minimum. As for the latter, sometimes it's hard to know where "Philippine hospitality" ends and ostentatiousness begins.
So if you plan to settle or even just visit the Philippines, be sure to pack your appetite. Whatever your tastes, you're almost sure to find a dish that will become your personal favorite. As they say here "Kain kayong mabuti" (Eat well.)
And no wonder. Because of its soothing and other pleasant sensory effects, eating is practically a recreational pastime here as well, especially as a group activity with family and friends. And it’s everywhere. For instance, when traveling through towns and the countryside, just glance out the window of your vehicle and you will see table after table of people gathered together in their yards or at roadside eateries enjoying a meal. I will bet that food sales, whether they are transacted by street and market stall vendors or in upscale restaurants and everything in between, likely comprise a disproportionate share of the Philippine economy compared with this type of commerce in other countries.
Filipino food (basically a melding of Malay, Spanish, and Chinese influences) is delicious and diverse. And my wife Lydia is an excellent cook of not just native dishes but various other cuisines as well. Fortunately, neither of us has a weight problem—yet. Thus this local custom of consumption suits me just find. I also eat in response to emotional distress, especially certain comfort foods. So the first time that I heard the phrase "emotional eating", my immediate reaction was "What, is there another kind?".
However, it should be emphasized that healthful eating is certainly a viable option in the Philippines. Many fruits and vegetables here such as papaya and malunggay are highly nutritious. It's just that foods with high cholesterol and fat content such as crispy pata and lechon are also the most tempting and sought after.
Meals themselves for the immediate family usually consist of at least two main dishes. When entertaining guests, three entrees are the usual minimum. As for the latter, sometimes it's hard to know where "Philippine hospitality" ends and ostentatiousness begins.
So if you plan to settle or even just visit the Philippines, be sure to pack your appetite. Whatever your tastes, you're almost sure to find a dish that will become your personal favorite. As they say here "Kain kayong mabuti" (Eat well.)
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Customer Disservice
Although businesses in the Philippines are often inefficient and difficult to deal with, one of the last places I expected to find such a problem was in trying to contact a well known local financial institution, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation) (RCBC) Savings Bank.
Beginning several days ago, my wife Lydia and I could not get through by phone to the branch where she conducts checking transactions. When calling, we would reach either a busy signal or no ring. Finally, considering that that perhaps the phone number had been changed (which seems to happen frequently in Metro-Manila), I attempted to to call the corporate office. But there's such no phone listing in the PLDT yellow pages, and ditto on the RCBC Savings Bank website. On the latter there is just a webmail contact form, which I submitted—and got an "invalid page" response.
I then decided to call RCBC headquarters. This is a separate operation from RCBC Savings Bank, but I figured that they must at least be affiliated. I was right; the operator furnished a couple number's for Lydia's branch and for the Savings Bank Office head office, all of which were turned out to be either disconnected, busy, no answer, or no ring. After several tries on the latter, we finally got through to the branch, only to get confusing information regarding one of Lydia's inquiries.
I normally don't utilize this site to rant against a particular company. But one, especially a bank, that makes it extremely difficult to telephone them deserves to be taken to the proverbial woodshed. If I find serious problems in dealing with other businesses, I will post that information as well. Whether a foreigner or local, no consumer needs the aggravation of having to transact with companies that don't know how to serve the public that's paying to keep them in business. However, in order not to be completely negative I will on the other hand also give shout-outs to firms that have gone out of their way to furnish exceptionally good service..
I would also like to hear from readers who have likewise encountered either poor or excellent service from businesses, especially on a consistent basis and who would like to share their stories.
Addeneum:. Coincidentally, as I was completing this entry, one of Lydia's payees just came by to inform her that he had difficulty cashing her check because according to RCBC, her signature looked irregular. The payee happened to be a banker himself and indicated that RCBC was remiss in not contacting Lydia to come in to the branch and update her signature card.
I rest my case.
Beginning several days ago, my wife Lydia and I could not get through by phone to the branch where she conducts checking transactions. When calling, we would reach either a busy signal or no ring. Finally, considering that that perhaps the phone number had been changed (which seems to happen frequently in Metro-Manila), I attempted to to call the corporate office. But there's such no phone listing in the PLDT yellow pages, and ditto on the RCBC Savings Bank website. On the latter there is just a webmail contact form, which I submitted—and got an "invalid page" response.
I then decided to call RCBC headquarters. This is a separate operation from RCBC Savings Bank, but I figured that they must at least be affiliated. I was right; the operator furnished a couple number's for Lydia's branch and for the Savings Bank Office head office, all of which were turned out to be either disconnected, busy, no answer, or no ring. After several tries on the latter, we finally got through to the branch, only to get confusing information regarding one of Lydia's inquiries.
I normally don't utilize this site to rant against a particular company. But one, especially a bank, that makes it extremely difficult to telephone them deserves to be taken to the proverbial woodshed. If I find serious problems in dealing with other businesses, I will post that information as well. Whether a foreigner or local, no consumer needs the aggravation of having to transact with companies that don't know how to serve the public that's paying to keep them in business. However, in order not to be completely negative I will on the other hand also give shout-outs to firms that have gone out of their way to furnish exceptionally good service..
I would also like to hear from readers who have likewise encountered either poor or excellent service from businesses, especially on a consistent basis and who would like to share their stories.
Addeneum:. Coincidentally, as I was completing this entry, one of Lydia's payees just came by to inform her that he had difficulty cashing her check because according to RCBC, her signature looked irregular. The payee happened to be a banker himself and indicated that RCBC was remiss in not contacting Lydia to come in to the branch and update her signature card.
I rest my case.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
WWRD (What Would Rizal Do?)
When it comes to traffic, the streets of Metro-Manila are fraught with danger, mainly due to undisciplined driving habits that are endemic in the Philippines. Not only are motorists a hazard to each other, but to pedestrians as well. Crossing the street, even in crosswalks is often a nerve-racking experience. Drivers rarely stop, so the only way to make it across is to wait for a gap in traffic and then run like hell to the other side.
Alternatively, there are pedestrian overpasses along the major thoroughfares, but they are usually spaced far apart and traffic signals even more so. Hence, many pedestrians (who are just as undisciplined as motorists) instead prefer the risk of crossing the street in areas not designated for that purpose. Rather than walk to the nearest overpass, they will instead go to the extent of climbing over restraining barriers and fences placed for the very purpose of preventing illegal and hazardous crossings, while they blithely ignore warning signs that pedestrians have been struck and killed in those locations.
Before the overpass on the major street in my locale was constructed, it was so dangerous for pedestrians using the crosswalk near that spot, the MMDA (Metro-Manila Development Authority) finally deployed traffic enforcers, who would stop vehicles in order to enable pedestrians to pass. However, this intervention of course tied up traffic on that thoroughfare.
But this MMDA protected crosswalk suited me just fine. Personally, I don't like the overpasses because I have a phobia about steep stairwells (anything more than three steps), which are the only means of accessing these bridges (there are no escalators). I don't have a problem climbing the steps as long as there's a hand rail available. However, it's the descent that I dread even while clinging (desperately) to the railing. Yet I recognize that the necessity of these bridges in order to keep vehicular traffic flowing smoothly (to the extent such a thing is possible in Metro-Manila). So I just try to set aside my worries about falling by keeping in mind that the matter at hand is about traffic improvement, not about me. In other words, it comes down to subordinating my own narrow interests for the greater good of the community.
In doing so, I'd like to think that this is in keeping with the Enlightenment values of Filipino nationalist and hero, Jose Rizal who was born 150 years ago today and whose birth date is observed here as a national holiday. It was his ideals that led to the overthrow of Spanish rule of the Philippines. For those, especially foreigners, who would like to know more about the life and philosophy of this inspirational leader, click here.
Sadly, Rizal's principles are honored more in the breach than in practice. If the people here would only follow his teachings by stepping outside of their small circle of interests and uniting for common cause of their country's welfare, the Philippines would truly be a great country.
Alternatively, there are pedestrian overpasses along the major thoroughfares, but they are usually spaced far apart and traffic signals even more so. Hence, many pedestrians (who are just as undisciplined as motorists) instead prefer the risk of crossing the street in areas not designated for that purpose. Rather than walk to the nearest overpass, they will instead go to the extent of climbing over restraining barriers and fences placed for the very purpose of preventing illegal and hazardous crossings, while they blithely ignore warning signs that pedestrians have been struck and killed in those locations.
Before the overpass on the major street in my locale was constructed, it was so dangerous for pedestrians using the crosswalk near that spot, the MMDA (Metro-Manila Development Authority) finally deployed traffic enforcers, who would stop vehicles in order to enable pedestrians to pass. However, this intervention of course tied up traffic on that thoroughfare.
But this MMDA protected crosswalk suited me just fine. Personally, I don't like the overpasses because I have a phobia about steep stairwells (anything more than three steps), which are the only means of accessing these bridges (there are no escalators). I don't have a problem climbing the steps as long as there's a hand rail available. However, it's the descent that I dread even while clinging (desperately) to the railing. Yet I recognize that the necessity of these bridges in order to keep vehicular traffic flowing smoothly (to the extent such a thing is possible in Metro-Manila). So I just try to set aside my worries about falling by keeping in mind that the matter at hand is about traffic improvement, not about me. In other words, it comes down to subordinating my own narrow interests for the greater good of the community.
In doing so, I'd like to think that this is in keeping with the Enlightenment values of Filipino nationalist and hero, Jose Rizal who was born 150 years ago today and whose birth date is observed here as a national holiday. It was his ideals that led to the overthrow of Spanish rule of the Philippines. For those, especially foreigners, who would like to know more about the life and philosophy of this inspirational leader, click here.
Sadly, Rizal's principles are honored more in the breach than in practice. If the people here would only follow his teachings by stepping outside of their small circle of interests and uniting for common cause of their country's welfare, the Philippines would truly be a great country.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Miscellany
Adam Sandler had "Eight Crazy Nights". But since May 7, I've had "nine crazy days". To begin with, the phone system in our condominium tower is undergoing a changeover from one trunk line with locals (extensions) connected to the units (sort of a PBX system). Instead occupants who want phone service will be responsible for obtaining their own landlines for their condos independently. The two available service providers are Globe and PLDT. My wife Lydia and I selected the former and have had nothing but grief and mix-ups since then, the latest of which was our lost (by Globe) app. So at present, for the first time in the years that we've resided here, we don't have a landline. Thank technology for cell phones.
When I contacted Globe today, the agent said not to worry, a technician will install our line "sometime this week". He couldn't give a definite date. This vagueness is typical in dealing with businesses in the Philippines, even major public service companies.
Then on May 12, I published a post on my other blog site "Towards a Rational America and an Enlightened Judaism". Right about that time, Blogger, who hosts my sites, encountered a systems disruption that required their removal of all posts submitted at that time, my submission included of course. Supposedly nearly all the missing posts were restored by May 14. As of today, mine is still missing in action.
***
Last week, a professor from the University of The Philippines was killed when the taxi was in which she was riding was struck by a speeding bus. The bus driver fled the scene of the accident on foot. This is such a common reaction by negligent and reckless public utility drivers involved in accidents that one wonders whether running away is part of their training. And when they're caught their plea for mercy is "I have a family". (Oh really? And your victims don't?)
***
Finally, I recently received information about a site called Expat Workforce. This company is seeking native-English speaking expats who are interested in working while living abroad. The positions are outsourced online jobs (with wages adjusted accordingly) from mainly American businesses. EW acts as a go-between for applicant and employer. This looks like a possible opportunity for expats who would like to supplement their income but who are not desperate for money as the pay would likely be minimal. Personally, I haven't decided whether or not I will sign up, but the service is an interesting concept. If you'd like more details about Expat Workforce, click here.
***
Now as I publish this piece, I only hope that Blogger doesn't experience any further issues that require post deletions.
When I contacted Globe today, the agent said not to worry, a technician will install our line "sometime this week". He couldn't give a definite date. This vagueness is typical in dealing with businesses in the Philippines, even major public service companies.
Then on May 12, I published a post on my other blog site "Towards a Rational America and an Enlightened Judaism". Right about that time, Blogger, who hosts my sites, encountered a systems disruption that required their removal of all posts submitted at that time, my submission included of course. Supposedly nearly all the missing posts were restored by May 14. As of today, mine is still missing in action.
***
Last week, a professor from the University of The Philippines was killed when the taxi was in which she was riding was struck by a speeding bus. The bus driver fled the scene of the accident on foot. This is such a common reaction by negligent and reckless public utility drivers involved in accidents that one wonders whether running away is part of their training. And when they're caught their plea for mercy is "I have a family". (Oh really? And your victims don't?)
***
Finally, I recently received information about a site called Expat Workforce. This company is seeking native-English speaking expats who are interested in working while living abroad. The positions are outsourced online jobs (with wages adjusted accordingly) from mainly American businesses. EW acts as a go-between for applicant and employer. This looks like a possible opportunity for expats who would like to supplement their income but who are not desperate for money as the pay would likely be minimal. Personally, I haven't decided whether or not I will sign up, but the service is an interesting concept. If you'd like more details about Expat Workforce, click here.
***
Now as I publish this piece, I only hope that Blogger doesn't experience any further issues that require post deletions.
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