A German Expat in The Philippines - Ein deutscher Auswanderer auf den Philippinen
This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading!
Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!
You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?
There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!
Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!
Visitors of germanexpatinthephilippines/Besucher dieser Webseite.Ich liebe meine Flaggensammlung!
Your random fan of books, art, kpop, and anime. I’m not that active here anymore, though I now review books on my downtime while making art in between. Still in a book coma, but I answer questions in my niche when I come around here.
Born and raised in The Philippines, here are some things some first time travelers here really need to adjust to.
Traffic is immensely worse as it sounds. If you plan to tour within the capital, or around metro manila, never expect to get anywhere in time if you don’t leave in advance.
We are most likely to be late. Yes, traffic sucks, but don’t expect many filipinos to come on time either. Most of my fellow countryman would give you valid reasons why they are late, from heavy traffic, to not getting onto public transportation sooner, to even having some home chores done first before heading out. When you set the time to meet up with a filipino, we have this term “Filipino Time” which means, set the meet up time an hour or two advance if you don’t want to be end up waiting for a long while.
Yes, we have so many nice natural tourist destinations, but I bet you that not many Filipinos have explored the whole country yet. At most, we only visited 5–10 out of the hundreds of islands and cities you’d google up on our country.
When in Manila, there is literally a 7/Eleven store at every corner street.
There is security bag checks whenever you enter a mall.
Yes, we are world-known for being nice, friendly and hospitable but don’t leave your stuff alone when eating in a restaurant or have your phone out when riding a jeepney or walking down busy sidewalks. Philippines isn’t 100% crime free, there are phone snatchers and thieves in the capital so be street smart.
We don’t actually use the term “Mabuhay” when greeting each other in public. Just say hello or hi like a normal person.
That’s all I remember so far, I will just add more when I remember something.
MANILA, Philippines — Members of the British girl group the Spice Girls came together to celebrate the 50th birthday of singer-designer Victoria Beckham, known in the group as Posh Spice.
Victoria celebrated her milestone birthday at Oswald's in London, United Kingdom by inviting a number of close friends, including Melanie Brown (Mel B), Melanie Chrisholm (Melanie C), Emma Bunton, and Geri Haliwell.
A video captured by Victoria's husband David sees the ladies singing and dancing to Spice Girls' hit song "Stop."
"Best night ever! Happy Birthday to me! I love you all so much!" Victoria wrote in the video's caption along with the hashtag #SpiceUpYourLife.
The last time all five members sang together in public was at the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony.
Also in attendance at the party other than Victoria and David's children were Tom Cruise, Eva Longoria, Gordon Ramsay, Marc Anthony, and Nadia Ferreira.
The Spice Girls debuted in 1994 and released hits like "Wannabe," "Say You'll Be There," "2 Become 1," "Stop," "Spice Up Your Life," "Too Much," "Viva Forever," and "Goodbye," before splitting in 2000.
The group had a reunion tour in 2019, but Victoria did not take part to focus on her family and fashion company.
MANILA, Philippines — Thirty areas in the Philippines are expected to experience scorching temperatures of up to 46 °Celsius (°C) on Wednesday, state weather bureau PAGASA reported.
According to the latest heat index bulletin of the weather agency, 30 areas are forecast to fall under the "danger" heat index classification due to temperatures ranging from 42°C to 46°C.
CBSUA-Pili in Camarines Sur may experience a heat index as high as 46°C.
The following areas are expected to experience a "dangerous" heat index classification on Wednesday:
NAIA, Pasay City, Metro Manila: 44°C
Science Garden, Quezon City: 43°C
Dagupan City, Pangasinan: 45°C
Aparri, Cagayan: 45°C
Tugegarao City, Cagayan: 44°C
ISU Echague, Isabela: 42°C
Iba, Zambales: 42°C
CLSU Munoz, Nueva Ecija: 43°C
Baler (Radar), Aurora: 42°C
Casiguran, Aurora: 42°C
Sangley Point, Cavite: 43°C
Ambulong, Tanauan, Batangas: 42°C
Alabat, Quezon: 42°C
Coron, Palawan: 43°C
San Jose, Occidental Mindoro: 45°C
Puerto Princesa City, Palawan: 45°C
Aborlan, Palawan: 45°C
Daet, Camarines Norte: 42°C
Legazpi City, Albay: 43°C
Virac (Synop), Catanduanes: 43°C
Masbate City, Masbate: 43°C
CBSUA-Pili, Camarines Sur: 46°C
Roxas City, Capiz: 43°C
Iloilo City, Iloilo: 43°C
Dumangas, Iloilo: 42°C
La Granja, La Carlota, Negros Occidental: 42°C
Catarman, Northern Samar: 42°C
Catbalogan, Samar: 42°C
Tacloban City, Leyte: 42°C
Guiuan, Eastern Samar: 44°C
Meanwhile, most parts of the country are under the “extreme caution” classification, with temperatures ranging from 33°C to 41°C.
On Tuesday, PAGASA recorded the highest heat index recorded at 48 °C in Aparri, Cagayan.
Earth Day happens every 22nd of April yearly and this year's theme "Planet vs Plastics" highlights a critical environmental issue. Google reveals that annually, a staggering 380 million tons of plastic are produced, with just nine percent being recycled.
Plastic has infiltrated nearly every aspect of our modern lives, from the gadgets we use, furniture, appliances, cosmetics, toys, and transportation, to the food we consume. Yet, its ubiquitous presence comes at a steep cost to our planet.
The biggest negative impact of plastic pollution? Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to terrestrial and marine ecosystems alike. And it does not end there.
1. Environmental degradation
Plastics take hundreds to thousands of years to break down, causing blockages in landfills and contaminating water bodies. Many of us have experienced floods during our lifetime, witnessing firsthand how trash ends up in our creeks. When heavy rain pours, our waterways rise due to the garbage overflow, persisting indefinitely since it doesn't dissolve when dumped in creeks and rivers. Yet, even now, some people thoughtlessly toss trash into these water sources. Is it truly "out of sight, out of mind"? Because when storms hit and rivers overflow, that trash comes right back to our doorsteps.
2. Wildlife endangerment
Marine animals frequently confuse plastic debris for food, resulting in ingestion and entanglement. This poses grave threats to various marine creatures, including seabirds, turtles, and fish. During our annual shore clean-ups, we're often astonished by the types of trash left behind by people. From sanitary napkins and condoms to clothing, blankets, slippers, cigarette butts, and an array of food packaging, the littering is extensive and diverse.
3. Microplastic contamination
Microplastic contamination occurs when larger plastic items degrade into tiny particles, known as microplastics. These minuscule particles infiltrate various ecosystems, including water bodies, soil, and even the air we breathe. As they disintegrate, microplastics become pervasive, spreading far and wide across the environment.
One of the most concerning consequences of microplastic contamination is its impact on the food chain. These tiny particles are ingested by marine organisms, such as fish and shellfish, which mistakenly perceive them as food. As a result, microplastics gradually accumulate within the tissues of these creatures.
When humans consume seafood contaminated with microplastics, they unwittingly introduce these particles into their own bodies. Microplastics have been detected in various other food sources, including salt, honey, and even beer. This raises serious concerns about the potential health risks associated with microplastic consumption.
Furthermore, microplastics can absorb and concentrate harmful pollutants present in the environment, such as heavy metals and chemical additives. As they make their way up the food chain, these contaminants become increasingly concentrated, posing significant health risks to both wildlife and humans.
4. Carbon footprint
Plastics play a significant role in our daily lives, but their production and disposal have far-reaching consequences. Not only do plastics contribute to pollution, but they also significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions. The process of manufacturing plastics releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Additionally, when plastics are disposed of improperly, such as through incineration, they release even more greenhouse gases, further exacerbating climate change.
Moreover, the lifecycle of plastics involves the extraction and processing of fossil fuels, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. From drilling for oil to refining it into the raw materials used in plastic production, each step in the process releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the air. This reliance on fossil fuels perpetuates our dependence on non-renewable resources and accelerates the pace of climate change.
Addressing the issue of plastics is not just about reducing waste; it's also about mitigating their impact on the environment and climate. By reducing our consumption of single-use plastics, promoting recycling and waste reduction initiatives, and investing in alternative materials and renewable energy sources, we can work towards a more sustainable future with a smaller carbon footprint.
While plastic's pervasiveness presents a formidable challenge, concerted efforts can help mitigate its impact:
1. Promote sustainable alternatives. Encourage the adoption of eco-friendly materials such as biodegradable plastics, paper, glass, bamboo, and metal.
2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink.
Embrace the mantra of reduce, reuse, recycle to minimize plastic consumption and waste generation. Adding "Rethink" emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating our consumption habits and considering alternative, more sustainable options. It encourages individuals and communities to question the status quo and seek innovative solutions to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact.
3. Legislative measures
Enact policies to limit single-use plastics, promote recycling initiatives, and incentivize businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices. Check with LGUs to see if they have solid policies that address environmental concerns. In Santa Rosa, Laguna, even the biggest store franchises have not been using plastic bags since 2008.
4. Consumer education
Raise awareness about the environmental consequences of plastic pollution and empower individuals to make informed choices. Make environmental education part of the curriculum and raise a generation of kids who love to nurture the earth.
5. Feasibility of the 60 percent reduction goal
The pledge made at the Earth Summit to reduce plastic use to 60 percent by 2040 is ambitious but achievable with concerted global action. Success will hinge on the collaboration of governments, businesses, and individuals to implement effective strategies and technologies. While challenges lie ahead, the urgency of the plastic crisis demands bold and decisive action.
Tackling plastic pollution is imperative for safeguarding the health and integrity of our planet. By reducing our reliance on plastic and embracing sustainable alternatives, we can pave the way for a healthier, more resilient Earth for generations to come. As we commemorate Earth Day, let us recommit ourselves to the battle against plastic pollution and strive for a future where our planet thrives in harmony with nature.
This is an awesome idea! Or is it? How many times have you been there? You’ve got it down. You know exactly what you want to do. All the details are worked out and you’re ready to go.
And then, it hits!
You start to question yourself. How do you know it’s a great idea?
The first characteristic of a great idea is that it needs to be desirable, feasible, and viable. Ideas need to spark something in the person hearing about them, namely a sense of new possibilities. Is the proposed idea something that people would want?
Carlos Mendes, Co-Founder at InnovationCast - Innovation Management Software, explained it last September 2023:
"Ideas are a starting point in the innovation process. They are the place from which you begin an innovation journey that has the potential to create impactful opportunities that produce value. Given their role, the quality of an idea is crucial to determining whether you have a good or bad outcome in innovation. But idea development is iterative and incremental. Ideas are not born perfect, requiring sustained investment to get them in the best shape possible."
Sometimes we feel that our thoughts and ideas can't be fulfilled with life. Where the heart is willing, it will find a thousand ways; but where the heart is weak, it will find a thousand excuses. If doubts begin to take roots, we should rouse from pink-tinted idealism or wear down and annihilate nightmares and erase and wipe out such thoughts and ideas.
If our thoughts are good and have the chance to be fulfilled in action, especially if "the other side" is prepared and willing to step on to such a bridge of life, we might get support and words of encouragement.
And, if not? No action? Maybe it is God's will to keep and protect us from a careless, rash, disadvantageous and uneasy action. Every new day gives us new inexhaustible possibilities to survive, to bear trials and to start a new beginning. We overlook and fail to notice many chances to lie through our sluggishness and laziness while thinking and dreaming of unequaled and unfulfilled ideas.
Once you’ve identified areas where you don’t have a positive emotional attachment to a belief, give yourself permission to let it go. It clearly does not serve you and is not something you want to do. Learning to work with the guilt around being “selfish” is important to work on at the same time. It will feel uncomfortable at first but until you release the guilt, you’ll continue to “should”.
The artists will be accompanied by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO).
Ryan Cayabyab
The biggest names in Philippine recording, TV, cinema and stage are converging at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater on May 11 and 12, 2024 for “Gen C” — a musical offering in honor of National Artist Ryan Cayabyab’s 70th birthday.
Topnotch artists are set to perform and collaborate with Maestro Ryan Cayayab a.k.a. Mr. C. for this once-in-a-lifetime extravaganza.
On May 11, the guests include Aicelle Santos, Arman Ferrer, Ateneo Chamber Singers, Basil Valdez, Belle Mariano, Bituin Escalante, Dilaw, Jed Madela, John Arcilla, Kakai Bautista, Karylle Tatlonghari, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Nonie Buencamino, Nyoy Volante, Phi Palmos, Regine Velasquez, Sheila Valderrama-Martinez, Stell of SB19, The Company, and The Ryan Cayabyab Singers.
Returning for the May 12 show are Aicelle Santos, Arman Ferrer, Ateneo Chamber Singers, Basil Valdez, Bituin Escalante, Jed Madela, John Arcilla, Kakai Bautista, Karylle Tatlonghari, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Nonie Buencamino, Phi Palmos, Sheila Valderrama-Martinez, The Company, and The Ryan Cayabyab Singers. On this date, they are joined by Ben & Ben, Bini, Janella Salvador, Juan Karlos, Julie Anne San Jose, and Vice Ganda.
The artists will be accompanied by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO).
The first birthday tribute of Mr. C was held in 1995 (a year after his 40th birthday) at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, and produced by Culturtain Musicat Productions, the company of singer Celeste Legaspi and talent manager Girlie Rodis. ABS-CBN would produce all-star tributes for the composer in the next two decades: “Musicman@50” in 2004 and “Mr. C@60” in 2014.
In 2019, the year Mr. C became a National Artist and a Ramon Magsaysay awardee, the UP College of Medicine honored him through "SOAP Opera (Musika ni Ryan, Medisina ng Bayan").
Mr. C wrote on Facebook that Celeste Legaspi and Girlie Rodis were insistent on gathering his long-time and newfound friends in the industry for the 2024 tribute. He said, “Hindi pumayag sina Celeste and GR na palampasin itong taon without a musical offering featuring more of my songs.” Culturtain Musicat is spearheading "Gen C".
The title—which is obviously a play on the first letter of the composer's last name and in reference to today's youth—describes the broad appeal of Mr. C.'s genius.
Producer Dr. Melfred L. Hernandez explained, “Gen C is not a demographic group; it’s not about an age bracket but a mindset, a group bound by love for and influence of the music of this National Artist and treasure."
Producer Aaron Veloso also disclosed, "It's heartwarming to know that teenagers and people from my generation, together with their parents and grandparents, have been our early and excited ticket buyers."
The National Artist expressed utmost thanks to all those involved in this project to be directed by Rowell Santiago. Mr. C said, “Hindi siya ganun kadali... Pagmamahal, pagkakaibigan at respeto sa craft ang siyang nangagpapatakbo ng ganitong klaseng proyekto. Isa siyang hiwaga. Pramis.”
“Gen C” is produced by Culturtain Musicat in cooperation with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Samsung Performing Arts Theater, and Ayala Land, for the benefit of the Philippine General Hospital Medical Foundation.
Sponsors include Metro Pacific Investments Coporation, American Eye Center, Avolution, Ayala Land Premier-Dasmariñas Group, Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, CMB Film, Joey’s Place, RMA Studio Academy, and Dawns Rack Kasuotan At Iba Pa, with benefactors: MedInfinity, Inc, RAF Forwarding Phils, Inc, Shiphealth and PNB PGH Branch.
Once that’s built, Filipinos won’t have to fly overseas because they can watch top-tier performances right from the comfort of their home country.
Taylor Swift (Facebook)
Filipinos' love for concerts presents significant economic potential, but the existing venue infrastructure gaps threaten this thriving industry.
Countries with better, bigger, and more competitive concert venues have reaped economic benefits, especially with the massive and significant influence of popular international acts like pop superstar Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour and Coldplay’s World Tour in consumer behavior and spending.
Driving tens of thousands of ‘Swifties’ and concert enthusiasts, the success of these concerts was an economic stimulus for countries worldwide, including Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Japan.
Filipino fans alike had to spend big and travel miles to watch the exclusive performance of superstar Swift in Singapore’s National Stadium. In contrast, others visited Japan’s Tokyo Dome and Sydney’s Accor Stadium in Australia.
The massive concert gigs boosted the respective country’s economies, significantly benefiting the entertainment, hospitality, retail, and transport industries.
While Singapore’s strategy for a Southeast Asia-exclusive Swift performance piqued interest and likewise piqued its neighboring countries, the strategic move sparked conversations and brought to light what the Philippines can improve on in terms of concert venues.
1. Location is key
The Philippines doesn’t lack in big venues. It boasts of venues rivaling Singapore’s National Stadium and Japan’s Tokyo Dome. Accessibility to the location, public transportation, and nearby commercial establishments is vital.
2. Concert experience
Photo credit to Stanley Quek. An empty Singapore National Stadium, viewed from the front stage.
Singapore’s pride, the National Stadium, has innovative features such as the world’s largest free-spanning dome, a retractable roof, and comfortable cooling technology for spectators’ convenience. Its innovation, strategic location, and efficiency bring positive and immersive experiences for enthusiasts and concert fans, making it a magnet for entertainment acts worldwide. A similar concert venue and experience is something that Filipino concertgoers are hoping the country can replicate.
3. World-class concert amenities and facilities
Accessing the venue's amenities and facilities should offer a premium music experience for a concert enthusiasts or convenience in a sporting event.
Architectural 'Eyecon' SM Mall of Asia Arena prides itself on having exceptional world-class amenities unique in the Southeast Asia region. (Photo from SM MOA Arena official website)FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 held at thw SM Mall of Asia Arena. (Photo from SM MOA Arena official website)
Take, for example, the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena – a flexible indoor arena developed in 2012 by leading integrated property developer SM Prime – which has been a top-of-mind venue for all sorts of events and offers a unique concert experience. With a full house seating capacity of 20,000, it has been a haven for thrilling sports events, remarkable OPM shows, and unforgettable international superstar performances.
Meanwhile, the SMDC Festival Grounds in Parañaque City is likewise an enormous outdoor venue that can accommodate at least 50,000 people. Ed Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour and Rivermaya The Reunion were among the performers that have graced the stage recently.
4. Achieving Filipinos’ concert dreams
One of the most forward-looking plans of SM Prime is its 360-hectare smart city development which is envisioned to bring in a centerpiece to the country’s entertainment and sporting events – larger in capacity and a more enhanced venue infrastructure that would attract legendary icons in the entertainment scene and compete against Southeast Asia and the world’s best. It will feature an estimated 70,000-capacity stadium and concert arena connected to one of the island’s main destination paradises called Central Park. The sizable arena is envisioned to be the Philippines’ biggest concert venue, with world-class facilities and sustainable features comparable to other big concert venues worldwide. Once that’s built, Filipinos won’t have to fly overseas because they can watch top-tier performances right from the comfort of their home country.
An artist’s render, visual sketch of the proposed concert venue at Pasay 360 project.
Without a doubt, Pinoys live and breathe entertainment shows. According to the digital payments company Visa, Filipinos are Asia-Pacific's 4th top concert spenders, proving how passionate we are about concerts. By investing in developing modern, smart, and accessible concert venues, Filipino concert enthusiasts can continue to embrace and celebrate live performances with the convenience, comfort, and enjoyment they deserve. Beyond entertainment, well-curated, smart, and innovative concert facilities can benefit the Philippines’ national and local economies, including ancillary local retail, tourism, and hospitality spending.
This six-part series is directed by Roni S. Benaid, the director of last year’s hit horror movies Mary Cherry Chua and Marita. We follow a group of friends on their trip to a faraway province.
The cast of the horror-romance flick 'Sem Break' (Images courtesy of Viva One Facebook)
We Filipinos believe that when we visit different places, we may unconsciously attract spirits and bring them home. Hence, our parents and elders remind us to be careful so that no one follows us.
A barkada’s quick semestral break trip leads to a series of terrifying events that they might not be able to escape.
Following the success of ‘Safe Skies, Archer’ of The University Series, Viva One and Studio Viva strengthen the bond among the “Univerkada” composed of Krissha Viaje, Jerome Ponce, Aubrey Caraan, Hyacinth Callado, and Gab Lagman in their latest project, “Sem Break," with Keann Johnson as a new addition to their circle.
This six-part series is directed by Roni S. Benaid, the director of last year’s hit horror movies Mary Cherry Chua and Marita. We follow a group of friends on their trip to a faraway province.
Krissha Viaje plays Mich. Her parents died in an accident, so she was raised by her Aunt Belen. At home, Mich doesn’t express herself much, but she is very lively and somewhat silly with her friends. She has a boyfriend, whom Aunt Belen approves of as long as she still prioritizes her studies.
Jerome Ponce plays Arlo. He comes from a wealthy family. Though an introvert and socially awkward sometimes, Arlo is fond of swimming. There are just a few people he can be open with – his girlfriend Mich, his best friend Tim, and the rest of their gang.
Keann Johnson plays Timmy. He’s into arts and he’s Arlo’s flatmate. He’s got that YOLO attitude. He acts annoyed with Mich’s best friend, Cora, but he has a crush on her.
Aubrey Caraan is Cora. She believes in horoscopes, feng shui, astrology, and charms. Her being kikay is why she and Tim banter a lot, but her best friends Mich and Arlo still ship them together.
Hyacinth Callado is Jessie. She’s the most responsible member of the group. She works part-time in a café, which has become their tambayan. Jess is superstitious, a trait she got from her parents.
Gab Lagman is Pipo, a university scholar. His parents work as caretakers at a beach resort in the province. He offers this place for their weekend getaway.
But it will turn out to be a wicked getaway.
They are told not to go to the lighthouse near the resort, but while the others are asleep, Mich, Arlo, Cora, and Timmy head to the lighthouse to do the 3 a.m. challenge. Things turn scary when they get lost in the maze-like structure of the lighthouse. Fortunately, they safely get out of the lighthouse and decide not to tell anyone what they experienced.
As they drive back to Manila, the barkada doesn’t know that they are not alone on their way home.
Catch the Univerkada as they fight for their lives in “Sem Break.” It premieres May 10, 2024, and a new episode airs every Friday exclusively on Viva One.
