Our life in Iloilo….
Santa Ana Church, Molo, Iloilo City
My wife and I have chosen the Philippines as our retirement home. We spent several months in Cebu City over the last three years and two weeks in Dumaguete. We were trying to be systematic about looking at various places before we settled down. While we found much to like in Cebu City, for us the disadvantages outweighed the advantages. Despite friendly people, top-notch medical care, shopping, pretty subdivisions in the surrounding hills, we found the worsening air pollution, traffic congestion and escalating prices hard to live with and likely to get worse. So, we decided to look at some of the smaller Visayan cities; in particular Bacolod and Iloilo and to spend more time in beautiful Dumaguete. Our plan was derailed in Iloilo. We were planning to stay in Iloilo City just for a month and then to move on to Bacolod. We ended up staying in Iloilo City for more than two years. Our future in Iloilo was sealed when bought a property outside of Iloilo City, in the pretty seaside town of Tigbauan, about one-half hour west of the city proper. While we build our house we’re renting an apartment in Tigbauan. Iloilo City will continue to be our center for shopping, medical care, dining and other urban amenities and necessities.
We’ve been pleased with Iloilo. The people are its treasure. Medical care seems fairly good and educational opportunities are extensive. In fact, Iloilo’s only real industry seems to be education. Thousands of doctors, nurses and seamen are trained every year. There are some decent restaurants, and you seem to be able to find and buy whatever you need at the markets, numerous malls or the downtown commercial area. The city is fairly compact, easy to get around.
Nearby Alubihod Beach, Guimaras Island
Although we find much to like about Iloilo City, we are not enamored of Philippine cities in general. Most are conglomerations of postwar concrete buildings, a tangle of power lines, and choked with traffic. The air is dirty with diesel fumes and you’ll be hopping over open sewers. They almost totally lacking in the trees, parks, bookstores, cycle paths and other charms of urban life elsewhere. They do have elaborate shopping centers which, along with upscale subdivisions, and chain restaurants, are safe, comforting, cool refuges from the realities of urban life in the Philippines.
If you’d like to live outside the city, but still have easy access to it, Iloilo has some exceptionally nice small towns with pretty Spanish churches and plazas. We especially like Santa Barbara, Oton, Tigbauan, Miagao and San Joaquin. Life in the small towns can be a much bigger adjustment and is not for everyone. The culture shock is much greater. You have to give up that is familiar and comforting; the shopping mall, the supermarket, the chain restaurants.
While we love living in the Philippines, we try to present a balanced view of the pluses and minuses of living in the Philippines. Be sure to read our short essay: “Reality Check: the Philippines - a tropical paradise for the retiree?”
Please also note that this is a non-commercial site which offers our personal perspectives. We do not receive payments from anyone or any business mentioned on the site. If we praise a business, it’s because we like it, not because they’re paying us. You can explore further using the topics list on the left side of every page. Comments, criticisms and additional information are very welcome. Address to hammerslag@gmail.com or use the comment forms on most pages.
Thank you very much for the outstandingly helpful writing on retiring in Philippines. I’ve been checking Phil blogs for some time and found yours to be undoubtably the most complete of any. In fact it is so complete that I have today decided that my best spot to experience the remaining time of my long life is right here in San Diego where medical needs are cheaper and probably better, the weather uncomparable and the wine just as enjoyable. Your fine writing has been appreciated very much.
Al
Al Ogilby
29 Oct 08 at 9:23 am
Al, I’m glad you found the blog to be helpful. Some sites present an unrealistic “rose-colored glasses” image of the Philippines as a retirement destination. I know of foreigners who came to the Philippines based on these rosy visions of the place as a “tropical paradise” and feel bitterly disappointed once they get here. I know one gentleman who spent years building a retirement house in Iloilo, dreaming of life here, without ever having visited. He sold everything in California, moved here a year ago with his Filipina wife. They both are eligible for Social Security and could live very comfortably here. Now he is desperate to sell his Philippine dream home and go back to California. He hates it here.
We love it here. I tell my wife the only way I’d go back to the USA is in leg-irons but it is a developing country with lots of problems. I try to portray my affection for the Philippines and Filipinos but also provide a frank portrayal of the negatives.
Really, reading blogs and browsing websites is only a start. To know how you’ll react, how the pluses and minuses will add up for you takes a year or more of living here.
Medical care is a big issue. You may be healthy when you arrive here but you’re going age. Quality and affordable medical care in the U.S. through Medicare is a tremendous benefit that one sacrifices when retiring in the Philippines or anywhere else overseas.
Best wishes!
Bob and Carol
GOIloilo
30 Oct 08 at 9:56 am
Bob and Carol,
Thank you for responding. I am an ex-western Pennsylvania guy, born in 1937 on a small farm 3 miles east of Brookville. In 1955 I spent 3 months at Sampson Air Force Base on Seneca Lake close to the neck of the woods where you spent some time.
In the Air Force I was in France & Germany for two years and then after that, signed up with the Department of State for two years in the embassy in Paris. Since 1970 I’ve been here in San Diego, spending quite a bit of freetime in Mexico so I’ve seen foreign countries and hearing about the Philippines from their ex-pats that live here, it seemed inticing to try living there.
Your explanation of the actual living conditions has been an eyeopener since, as you have made clear, most people talking about life there seem to ‘gloss over’ the actual reality of the place. Since I am divorced for the last 30 years and at the age of health maturation, I think that you have saved me from lots of problems. I’m thinking that you could do well with a book about your experiences.
Thanks again.
Al
Al Ogilby
2 Nov 08 at 1:19 am
Cheaper medical in the US?
I guess that could depend on your insurance but the cost here are much cheaper in the Philippines.
I agree with the rosy picture problem. It is pretty rosy I think but there are thorns and most bloggers tend to leave that out.
In many of those cases, they are trying to convince themselves they love it here. I do love it here. Its not all easy and not all wonderful, freaking cold showers lol, but finding the right Filipina is a huge part of how the Philippines turns out for a person.
The right Filipina is also a matter of personal choice. I care nothing about the Angeles City scene but others love it. Many others wonder why in the world I prefer commitment. Its all about what each person is looking for.
Rusty
1 Jan 09 at 1:19 pm
Rusty, When I mentioned going to the U.S. for “cheaper” medical care I meant for those of us oldsters who qualify for Medicare or have some other form of medical insurance in the U.S. Costs for big ticket medical care in top Manila hospitals can run into the millions of pesos. Bob
GOIloilo
1 Jan 09 at 2:36 pm
Invaluable blog. My wife is from Iloilo, and concurs. All the best to you and your better half.;)
Best Regards, Mike
Tampa Bay, FL
Mike Funk
11 Jan 09 at 6:01 am
Hi, I am sorry to bother you but we are interested to buy a residential lot in Puerto Real or Acropolis but bec. we are not familiar with the Iloilo province we do not know if this is a good decision. I hope that maybe you could give us some insider information that might help us to decide.
Appreciate your help.
Thanks in advance.
LT
20 Jan 09 at 5:52 am
LT,
Are you a foreigner? If so, you cannot own real estate in the Philippines. If you’re married to a Philippine citizen, he or she can own real estate. Our advice, it’s generally better to rent than to own. Real estate prices are high, rents are low. This might well point to a Philippine real estate bubble. At least don’t buy until you’ve lived here for two years. That said we are familiar with Puerto Real and Acropolis in Iloilo City. Puerto Real is a beautiful “elite” subdivision, but the urban neighborhood in which it is located is not the best. The adjoining Ledesco subdivision had some serious flooding. They are planning on building a coal burning power plant not far away. I don’t know what impact that will have but it’s a consideration.
We live quite close to the Acropolis subdivision. We like the location, slightly out of the city proper but close enough to be convenient. It’s still under construction so you might have a good selection of lots. Another nice Iloilo subdivision is Villa Rosario which is a bit closer to the city but still very quiet.
Have you read our real estate comments at http://goiloilo.com/about-iloilo-real-estate/ ?
More questions? Just ask.
GOIloilo
20 Jan 09 at 6:27 am
Thanks a lot for the information, this will help us in deciding. I am a Filipina but now living in Switzerland. We are looking around bec. as you righly pointed out it is easier to leave a place when you are just renting.
In case, we decided to buy I will let you know and might again ask for your help.
Best regards.
LT
21 Jan 09 at 5:30 am
HI GoIloilo first of all.. I like your blog and a lot of info that i was looking for.
I’m also planning to buy a house there in iloilo, since the typhoon frank… I know a lot of subdivision got flooded and I was looking for a list of subdivision that got flooded but cant find it… Do you know what subdivision got flooded?
also Villa Rosario.. i cant find there website to check the model house and floor plan. Do you know if Villa Rosario got flooded also.
Mostly i’m looking for is good security and no flood..
Thank you a lot…
AC
29 Jan 09 at 1:39 pm
AC, villa rosario wasn’t flooded—–arevalo and villa were spared…
natie
30 Jan 09 at 8:09 pm
Natie is right. Villa Rosario was not flooded by Typhoon Frank. I don’t believe Villa Rosario sells houses — only lots. The contact information I have for Villa Rosario is: Ann Ginon, Rifor Realty, 103 Lopez Jaena, Fishing Port, Locsin Compound, Molo, Iloilo City Phone: 033-336-4560. I think I have some photos of Villa Rosario which I could post when I get time.
The new “Acropolis” subdivision in Villa also seems like a good bet. Just do a Google search on Acropolis Iloilo and you’ll find You Tube videos and many agents who’d be glad to sell you a lot.
GOIloilo
30 Jan 09 at 9:02 pm
Hi Bob, Greetings from San Diego, CA. We visited Sibalom, my wife’s hometown, near San Jose, twice last year. I am retired navy (24 years) and looking to move somewhere back there next year. Your advice has been great and I’m looking forward to seeing more photos and commentary on your house building project. If you happen to know of, or come across any, good property for sale would you please pass it along to me on my personal email? Thank you, Patrick.
Patrick
31 Jan 09 at 7:43 am
Thanks for updating your house project link. Again you added some valuable information. I’d be interested in your thoughts on Stainless Steel water tanks, are you installing? if so, how many gallons and the cost, also what your thoughts are about solar panels.
I was wondering if there were someway to connect with other Expats living in the area? I would certainly be willing to share my email with anyone living in the Philippines or interested/planning on moving to the Philippines, just a thought. All the best to you and Carol, thank you, Patrick.
Patrick
1 Feb 09 at 12:34 pm
Patrick — yes we’ll need a water tank and tower but we have not researched that topic yet. There are dozens of places in Iloilo City which sell stainless steel and polyethylene tanks. From memory (not reliable) a decent size SS tank is around P10K. We used very little hot water except during the “winter” when cold showers become a trial. We’ll install a solar hot water system when we can afford it. While hot water is not necessary for dish washing and the laundry, it would be nice to have it. I see a system advertised in the Manila papers for between P25K and P40K depending on the capacity of the system. This is an installed price. The outfit is Mercury Solar Hot Water System, available at Alabang, Ortigas, Macapagal Home Depot. Phone 02-666-1822, 8821. I have not had a chance to examine the system. One architect we consulted said there were less expensive Chinese solar hot water systems and more expensive European ones. Then there’s the option of making your own. I sure wish I could have brought that copper water pipe I had to leave in by basement in New York.
Regarding staying in touch with other expats, there are many good online groups. The Iloilo group egroup is at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Iloilo-EXPATS/
The Living in the Philippines group is at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LivingInThePhilippines3/
A good group for those interested in Philippine real estate issues is at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/philippine_real_estate/
Regards,
Bob and Carol
GOIloilo
1 Feb 09 at 4:47 pm
Great and very informative and entertaining website! I was born and grew up in Iloilo, immigrated to Guam in my teens joined the navy, sailed the world and retired in 04 and currently living with my wife and 2 kids in olongapo. Just here in the states for work but nothing going on what with the economy going down the drain. I plan on relocating back to Iloilo this year and setting up a small business. Both my parents have retired already and are back in Iloilo. We have a house at Sacred Heart Subd. In Jibao-an Manduriao and property in Guimaras and I can’t wait to go back. Nothing going on for now in ‘gapo. As it’s a small town and growing, a lot of people are moving in and it’s getting quite claustrophobic there. Planning to drive down to Iloilo making it an adventure, taking the Strong Republic Nautical Highway. As I can’t technically call myself an “expat,” I hope ya’ll don’t mind if I just pass by your monthly “meetings” and say hi! Keep up the good work and keep the information flowing.
Regards
Edzel
Edzel Jereza
4 Feb 09 at 6:18 am
Edzel, having been away for SO Long, we can qulify as ‘expat’…i could use a few pointers on the ‘where and how’ in living here eventually esp from the point of view of other ‘expats’..
We often pass Jibao-an—it is a lovely place…not too far from Iloilo, but not too near either. it has a nice rural feel to it…love the pots and jars locally made. will buy a decorative one soon..
natie
5 Feb 09 at 9:14 am
Thanks for the reply natie and GOIloilo. So, I guess only 2 subdivision was spared.
Patrick, If you planning to move to Iloilo and your retired US military. I suggest that contact the RAO Iloilo and sign up so u can get a FPO AP address.
Call (033) 337-6906 that’s there office number and ask more info. They will also help you about your benefits while your in the Philippines.
Since your money is direct deposit in US bank. I suggest that you open a dollar account in the Philippines and just write personal check to your self and deposit to your dollar account. The only bad thing about that you have to wait 1 month before you can withdraw your money but it is free. If you wire your money you will get international fee and remitance fee in the philippines, Western Union or LBC will charge you to send money. By depositing your personal check in your bank is free but you just need to wait 1 month so just plan ahead.
(I know my grammar sucks… hehhe sorry!! )I hope this will help
AC
5 Feb 09 at 12:46 pm
Thanks Natie..now I don’t feel left out
In addition to that RAO info from AC, here’s a webpage for military retirees out there that you could visit for a list of TRICARE/CHAMPUS providers not only in Iloilo province but all of the PI.
http://tpaoweb.oki.med.navy.mil/TGRO/providers/Provider_Directory.htm
I myself am a member of the RAO chapter in Olongapo and have been using the FPO address for important documents. Please note that there’s a weight limit of packages that you can receive through the FPO..only 1 pound I think, but no limit on the volume of letters, correspondence and the like.
Edzel
6 Feb 09 at 2:11 am
Thanks for the great information and advice.
Patrick
11 Feb 09 at 10:04 am
Good Morning Bob. Its Monday morning and just cruising around reading about my future home. I have a question for you. Have you ever been out to the golf course there in Iloilo? (-: Just having some fun. I do hope all is well with you and Carol. Ron and Marlou
Ron
16 Feb 09 at 11:03 pm
…I am a filipina originally from Baguio City, now
living here in Kalispell Montana (Glacier Country).
Came across your website and enjoying it tremendously.
Thank you for the great site, it does make me homesick. God Bless both of you and good luck on your
on going project, keep us all posted!!! Take care always. Lady
lady k
17 Feb 09 at 12:25 pm
Hi Lady,
I’ve been in Kalispell and the beauty of the mountains is spectacular. When Carol first came to the U.S. we lived in the Adirondack Mountains. Our first outing was a canoe trip to an island on a remote lake in the mountains. It was one of my favorite spots and I was so disappointed when she did not enjoy the trip. There were no people. It seemed beautiful to me but so lonely to my wife. Now that we’ve lived in the Philippines for more than two years, the streets full of life, of smiling faces, of noise and activity and food and drink — of life, I understand much better how my wife felt in the isolation of that mountain lake. Bob
GOIloilo
17 Feb 09 at 7:03 pm
I have lived here in the States for 29 years now. I’ve
always enjoyed going home to the Philippines, the people
are so warm and simple, my husband (from Wyoming)
promised me a trip to Boracay (after showing your pictures) on our 30th anniversary (2010) he has never
been to the Philippines, and I have never been to Bo-
racay, I can’t wait. Thank you again Bob, hope to meet you and your wife someday:) Lady
lady k
18 Feb 09 at 12:27 pm
Bob, Do you know if there is a flying club at Iloilo airport? I’ve been searching online for clubs but the only one I’ve found is at the old Clark AFB. Thank you, patrick
Patrick
28 Feb 09 at 9:13 am
Bob and Carol,
You write so well about the Philippines that you could have a best seller especially for Expats and Fil-ams wanting to retire there.
Thanks for a very comprehensive write up. Hope to meet you someday.
Best Regards,
Nelson
Nelson
28 Feb 09 at 12:57 pm
Hi Bob and Carol.
I have been following starting from your other blog for almost 2 yrs now. Very informative. Well writen. Hoping to meet you both on my next visit w/c is around May this year.
Thank you!
Cecilia MQ
2 Mar 09 at 12:15 pm
Please visit our website regarding our film documentary on Camp Roxas in Agat, Guam: http://www.camproxas.com
Under the American Sun: Camp Roxas Film Project (Agat, Guam, 1946- 1972) will recount a little-known chapter of American history - the story of skilled and unskilled laborers and professionals recruited from the Philippines’ Iloilo Province by the United States military to rebuild Guam, devastated by years of Japanese occupation and war.
Thank you.
Bernadette Provido Schumann
–
“Under the American Sun” - Camp Roxas Film Project
(Agat, Guam: 1946 -1972)
Website: http://www.camproxas.com
Email: camproxasguam@gmail.com
Bert Sardoma Jr, director
Bernie Provido Schumann, producer
Alex Munoz, producer
Josephine Mallo-Garrido, associate producer
Norman Analista, special projects
Bernadette Provido Schumann
14 Mar 09 at 11:06 pm
Bob and Carol,
Thanks for a great blog site! I have been following your blogs, and couldn’t find a more informative one. Like Edzel and Patrick, I am also a retired Navy guy, May 2005. I am originally from Iloilo. My family and I currently reside here in Maryland but eventually will spend most of our retirement years in Iloilo, (Oton). My concern is health care. I hope Edzel or anybody know if there is still a qualified Tri-care provider in Iloilo considering the scam that occured a year or so ago regarding Tri-care in Iloilo? I’m glad you like living there, and best of luck with your project. Once again, thank you for this excellent forum.
Ulysses Valera
17 Mar 09 at 1:22 am
Ms. Schumann, thanks for that info regarding Camp Roxas in Agat. I will definitely visit the website. My father was one of those workers who came to Guam back then(1956) and had worked in MASDELCO until the 70s. My whole family had been long time residents of the Agat/Santa Rita area where most of the Ilonggos make their home until each of us have moved on elsewhere recently. We have streets there that are named Janiuay St, Iloilo St, etc…
Edzel Jereza
17 Mar 09 at 9:06 am
Ulysses,
Since I don’t have Tricare myself, I am no expert but it’s my understanding that Saviour International Hospital in Molo, Iloilo City is Tricare approved. Saviour is a small hospital. I don’t know if I’d have anything major done there, but it should be OK for routine care. I actually go to two doctors affiliated with Saviour at their clinic at the J&B building on Quezon Street. They are part of the “Global Medical Network” which I understand to be Tricare affiliated. They are Drs. Robert Jacobo and Dexter Dale D. Briones, a cardiologist. I think they have a small pharmacy there for Tricare patients. Perhaps someone in Iloilo who has Tricare can fill in some details.
Bob
GOIloilo
17 Mar 09 at 8:50 pm
Bob,
Thank you so much for the information, your reply is very helpful and greatly appreciated. I do hope someone who has Tricare can fill me in with more details. But for now, at least I know where to start.
Best regards, and trust me, I will be a frequent visitor to GoIloilo.
Take care to you and Carol,
Ulysses
Ulysses Valera
17 Mar 09 at 9:17 pm
Ulysses,
Try going through that list I provided on my comment last Feb6. You will find that most of the providers are from the Great Saviour International Hospital in Solis St. Barangay Tap-oc, Molo. But then again that will not be your only choice as there are many. This list came directly from the Navy so it’s legit and my doctor in Olongapo is on it. Good luck and Fair Winds!
Edzel
Edzel Jereza
18 Mar 09 at 2:21 am
Edzel,
Thanks a lot. I will look up the link. Looks like we have a lot of things in common. Only thing is, I can’t settle in Iloilo soon enough. I guess you’re luckier in this aspect. Still have kids in senior High School and College here in the States. So I’ll see you in a few years, although I try to visit Nanay in Barotac Nuevo every year.
Before I forget, look up the new GI bill that’ll take effect in August of this year. We will be getting generous educational benefit as well as housing allowance. You can use this benefit in Iloilo or any schools in the Philippines accredited by the VA. Look up the VA website.
Best of luck with all your plans in Iloilo. Let me know when you’re back there. I may pay you a visit the next time I come around. Maybe we both could see Bob and Carol in their new house as well.
Best regards,
Ulysses
Ulysses Valera
18 Mar 09 at 8:47 pm
Ulysses and Edzel, don’t hesitate to meet up with Bob and Carol when you go home. I spent half day with the couple and I had such a great time! i saw their molo apartment, their new tigbauan home, and the sorry-looking perimeter wall after a heavy rain!!
Bob and Carol, sorry for not writing sooner..i’m waiting for my niece to forward our pictures. i deleted half of my vacation pictures by accident after i transferred them to my niece’s laptop..
will email you soon!!
natie
20 Mar 09 at 4:32 am
Hi Bob & Carol,
Thanks for your informative blogs. My husband’s family lives in Maasin, Iloilo and we are thinking of retiring in Maasin. Did you have to ship your personal belongings from the U.S.? Are you able to bring a car , washing machine , stove/oven? Did you
have some house building tips for me. Someone wrote
about building your own home in Tigbaun link. I read
about the perimeter wall/fence but not about your house. Thanks in advance
Citas
Citas Maghopoy
21 Mar 09 at 4:36 am
Citas, I assume you and your husband already have a lot ready to build in Maasin. Based on my experience, building a house in the Philippines while still living abroad is not that easy. If you don’t have an honest and trusted person (who knows house construction) to supervise the project, you might as well wait till you and your husband are back home in Maasin before you build your dream house. Things you need to know and want before you hire an Architect, not necessarily in this order:
* How much you want to spend.
* How big the house you want in square meters, how many bedrooms and bathrooms, 1 or 2 storey high.
* Do you like Asian, Western, Spanish/Mediterranean or Contemporary design?
* Visit new house constructions and compare.
* Make a sketch or sketches of what you want in the first or second floors. Do you need a balcony in the front or rear of the house, at 1st and or 2nd floor? Do you prefer both an inside kitchen and a dirty kitchen outside the house?
* Ask the Architect if he or she can do a 3-D drawing of the house exterior. The 3-Dimensional CAD drawings will give you a better understanding of how your future house will look like. A lot of graduate students do them now by computer (CAD) in colors. If you can find one working for a Developer or GC that specialize in home construction, the better.
For the actual construction, you will learn a lot from Bob’s blog, pictures, and detailed updates. Wish you and your husband well on your planned retirement to Maasin, Iloilo. Goodluck!
Jim Monreal
22 Mar 09 at 12:22 pm
Your fortress is starting to take shape! Thanks for the updates.
Patrick
25 Mar 09 at 10:19 am
Thank you Jim for your advise. On bringing in personal
effects, any advise anyone?
Citas
25 Mar 09 at 11:52 pm
Citas, Bob has this answered in his Retirement in the Philippines heading, under Shipping Items to the Phil–near the bottom of several posts….this is how I started getting in touch with the couple…very informative and helpful.
natie
26 Mar 09 at 1:41 am
Citas,
You’re better off buying a new or used car in the Philippines. If you import your vehicle there, customs will charge you an arm and a leg for it or maybe both arms and both legs. Then there’s also the “under the table” transactions if you know someone in customs. But even so it could still cost a lot. I bought a new vehicle there and I got a loan from my stateside credit union (Navy Federal Credit Union). I went to several dealerships and Ford was the only one who accepted my stateside loan without the usual “red tape.” If you want to go that route, ask your bank. As for personal household goods, I had no problems as the Navy provided all expenses for us. If you are not military you could research shipping companies and they could provide you a shipping container for maybe 5 grand or more. But then again, you still have to deal with customs at the other end which could be a little bit of a hassle. Even for us who were military, we had to face the usual “red tape” shenanigans of customs. Just a fact of life there.
Edzel
Edzel
26 Mar 09 at 2:53 am
I agree with Edzel on buying a car in the Philippines. I have a friend from California who shipped his 2002-2003 Subaru Baja to Iloilo through a broker or freight forwarder. It cost him a total of $12,000 including freight, duties/taxes, and registration. All the dirty work was done by his broker. That’s already the price of that same car/pick-up here in the States. If you have an antique or classic car, maybe it is worth it. Then again, if you know a very influencial person at the Customs Bureau, you might be able to save a lot. If you do, let me know - I am thinking of bringing home to the Philippines my ‘86 Alfa Romeo Spider Veloce.
Jim Monreal
27 Mar 09 at 12:28 am
It’s now three years since we left Iloilo. I went there 4 times before my wife can come to live here in Canada, in january 2006.
Canada (Quebec City) sure is a great place to live. It’s nice, quiet and we can find whatever we want.
But it’s also a very cold place and I’m getting tired of 6 months winters, years after years. Global warming seems to be everywhere, but not here…
On my third trip to Philippines, I rented a house in Iloilo. It was in Mandurriao, not too close from the old airport. It was quiet and we had a pretty house, on De Leon Street.
In a few years, we will sell our big house in Quebec City, to go back to live in Iloilo or Guimaras. It’s still a dream for us, but when I read your website, it gives me the gutz I need to realise my dream.
I want to built my own house there, with my wife’s family. I think it won’t be so expensive to built a comfortable house, with a windmill and a few solar pannels to produce electricity.
In the meantime, I keep dreaming and I take all the informations I can get by internet.
By the way…
Somebody is interested by a nice 10 rooms appartment in Old Quebec?
Guy & Zeny
27 Mar 09 at 1:13 am
Guy,
I have great memories of old Quebec. When I lived in northern Maine “outback”, Quebec City was the closest city. When we lived in northern New York, close to the Canadian border we usually went to Montreal — even for grocery shopping. I’m sitting here in Tigbauan, Iloilo sipping my coffee from a “La Vieille Europe” coffee mug. That was our favorite food store. Oh how I’d like a visit there to to pick up some Camembert, Rosette de Lyon, some baguettes and most of all some Montreal bagels and some smoked meat from Schwartz’s. Quebec City was a longer drive but we always enjoyed it’s European ambiance. Your ten room place in Old Quebec sounds great — but during the summer! Bob
GOIloilo
27 Mar 09 at 5:57 am
Hi! How are you and whole family? I have been looking at your web site for few months now, thank you so much for the wonderful photos that you took, especiaaly the one in Iloilo and Estancia.I grew up in Masbate, but finished my elem.sch.in Alinsolong, Batad,went to Bacolod and graduate in high school there and fortunately graduated in college at Cebu.I was very blessed to get a job at the orphanage of Asilo de la Milagrosa in Cebu which managed by the Daughter of Charity nuns, they also have one there in Molo, Iloilo.The photos in your site which most of the time i visited just incredible and fulfilling to me, especially the changes in Estancia fish port. As a little girl we used to go there with our pamboat which was name by me and my parents family still lives around there in Gigantes island, Estancia, Banban and sorrounding area.
Iam hoping that maybe you can visit at those island and sorrounding area of Estancia and took photo.Also if it is possible for you to visit Asilo, they’re producing and selling handmade embroidery product in there that you might like to see or buy. Sr. Lumen Escoto is a very wonderful person hopefully you will be able to meet her. If so please email me, thanks.
Thanks once again, you have done an incredible job for people like us that now lives in other countries hopefully to meet you when i come home to visit my family in Iloilo.God bless and take care.
Inday from Australia
Aussie Inday
27 Mar 09 at 9:45 am
Hello Bob!
When I used to live in Mandurriao, I had problem to find good wine. I tried all liquor stores, but good scotch and wine were hard (read impossible) to find.
I can understand that you miss Montreal, for all the food experiences.
I’ll be in Guimaras for next Christmas and New Year’s holliday… I think I’ll bring you a nice Camembert, a few bagels from Fairmount if you want. About the smoked meat from Schwatrz’s… Sorry my friend. But next time I go in Montreal, I’ll eat one for you.
Ingat!
G
Guy
27 Mar 09 at 9:41 pm
Guy,
That would be great. Carol really loves Montreal bagels too. We bought ours at http://www.stviateurbagel.com/main/ — by the dozen. Fantastic!
Thanks!
GOIloilo
28 Mar 09 at 7:01 pm
Hi Bob & Carol..
I am from Iloilo and I really appreciate your honest writing about my province and its people. I have gone over your write-up including travel to Boracay via Antique. Since I am a native I felt that my opinion about Panay & Boracay may be biased…but I am really very glad that a foreigner appreciates out place. We always take the Antique route going to Boracay and twice when we went to Manila via the Strong Republic Nautical Highway. My family loves Boracay despite what other people are saying that it is over crowded, etc. Indeed, I feel there is a magic that lures people to the place. There are so many choices of food, entertainment, resorts that people in a group can go separate ways and enjoy in the island. I am looking forward to more of you blogs.
Lea
Lea
1 Apr 09 at 5:37 pm
Hi Bob
Your internet site is great! Very informative. Here’s a challenge for you - do you or your contacts know any company in Dumaguete area that can sink a water well?
Thanks Robert
Robert
1 Apr 09 at 9:14 pm
Robert,
Can you explain more on the details of “sink a water well”
Jim Monreal
2 Apr 09 at 10:45 pm
Robert and Jim,
We’re right in the middle of re-digging our well. I’ve tried to pay attention to the details, gear and techniques and will post a report with lots of photos. I’ll ask a friend in Dumaguete if he can help with Robert’s inquiry.
GOIloilo
3 Apr 09 at 6:19 am
We decided some years ago to retire in the PhHilippines. The day has finally arrived. It’s re-pat for me, having been away from P.I for over 40 years. The last time I visited was in 1978.
Thanks for the “Where to live” and many other invaluable information I found in your website. P.I. looks like a new far away foreign country to me as Ilook and see in the Internet.
I went to high school in Iloilo — in St. Clement’s in Jaro. I don’t know if the school and Church are still there. If you have any information I would appreciate some notice (here or at my email address). Thank you very much.
I like Iloilo City and environs very much. We plan to visit and see for ourselves if this is where we’d like to retire. I’m originally from Dumaguete, raised there from childhood prior to immigrating to the US. I’m not sure yet if that’s where we would want to relocate permanently.
Vincent
5 Apr 09 at 8:05 am
Have just found this site, interesting. I am an Australian, living in San Carlos (Negros) and plan to move to IloIlo this June (2009). Will visit again next week 14th April.
David Finlay
9 Apr 09 at 9:54 am
@Vincent
St. Clement’s Church still exists. Though the school doesn’t operate anymore. They’ve rented out the old school building to various offices/companies. Any chance you know Mr. Aurelio Infante? He was my high school Math teacher at SMCS. He tells stories before about his time as a teacher at St. Clement’s.
The church recently had some renovations done.
Beth
9 Apr 09 at 4:15 pm
Hi Bob,
Great site! I have visited it a number of times and have gone through all the Topics already. So now I just want to read the updates only without having to go through all the Topics every time I visit the site. What page are your updates on? Thanks.
CDC
12 Apr 09 at 4:35 am
bob,
thank you very much for making this website….i really enjoy reading and watching it all the time…i’m from iloilo just few houses from the ” mohon bibingka” that you mentioned in one of your postings….just went home for a visit few months ago and i really had a great time….me, my wife and daughter are 100% ilonggo by heart actually even though i’m here in the states for the past 10 years we still keep our lifestyle the ilonggo way….actually my daughter was born and raised here but her dialect is 100% ilonggo just to keep her grounded on her roots….i read regarding your posting on building a house there in iloilo that some engineers or architects will overprice you….that is absolutely true coz i experienced that myself….they always see the dollar sign when you come from the states….one honest, trustworthy and very good engineer that takes pride in his job that i can recommend is engineer jun seneres from mandurriao…very straightforward, transparent and did an excellent job all the time as to my experience….his cell number is…(011)(63)919846207….it might be a help to whoever wants to build a house back home in iloilo without their presence coz during construction i was here in the states and just sent money for materials and labor but he really did a great job on me and was impressed by the craftsmanship of his people and his honesty on everything…..till here… once again thanks to you bob and carol for making this site….it makes me proud to be from iloilo….god bless to all…M&M
M&M
12 Apr 09 at 2:58 pm
bob,
i read regarding us telephone service in the philippines and just want to share what i’m using to call our house there in iloilo..i use majick jack….i dont know if you are already familiar with it but as to my experience it really works and the signal is excellent….you cant tell that it is a long distance call it is just like a local call way better reception than a phone card….1 paid 108 dollars or 20 dollars per year for 5 years of service and that’s it….all you need is a dsl service and computer there in iloilo….it gives you a us area code and number so anybody here in usa can call you from landline or cell and you can also call them in return….i call our house all the time and most of all it is free after the initial payment….just visit majick jack.com….what i did i sent it via fedex and my family had it in 5 days….thanks….M&M
M&M
12 Apr 09 at 3:49 pm
u can get majick jack thru online or in stores at bestbuy and radioshack….tnx
M&M
12 Apr 09 at 4:17 pm
if you check LBC offices in iloilo, i think they sell magic jacks…the price is great but there are times when the reception is terrible…when it does work, it’s great—you can talk all you want.
natie
14 Apr 09 at 4:25 am
Thanks for the Magic Jack suggestions. We’ve been using Skype for years. It costs about two U.S. cents per minute or free to other Skype users. We have a Skype handset (made by http://www.ipevo.com) we plug into our USB port. Can anyone tell me what the advantages of Magic Jack are over Skype?
Skype does not work quite as well on our SmartBro connection in Tigbauan as it did on Globe DSL in Molo, I’m told because SmartBro has latency (delay) problems. Otherwise I think I like SmartBro just fine. It’s probably pretty good in Tigbauan because there probably are not so many users hogging the connection as there would be in a larger place. The Smartbro installer guessed there about 200 users in Tigbauan. So — please don’t move to Tigbauan!
GOIloilo
14 Apr 09 at 8:58 pm
Hi Bob & Carol,
I was delighted to read about your experience and thoughts about Iloilo. I grew up here although I am currently working in Makati. Iloilo is dear to me and your fine writing made me miss it even more. Thank you for the valuable information you (and your readers) have shared - from real estate to hot water systems. Nothing like a personal insight. ;D
Gob bless you both!
Mandy
30 Apr 09 at 6:30 pm
Bob:
I just discovered your blog;it’s very informative. I myself is planning to retire in Iloilo, outside the city, but close to the cilization. What do you think about Villa Sto. Domingo Subdivision, Tigbauan? How far is the subdivision from the main road or the ocean? Does it flood in the area, how’s the neighborhood like? I appreciate your honest feedback. Thank you. mgm
MGM
5 May 09 at 9:08 am
Hello Aussie Inday,
My wife is from Masbate too, town of Baleno. Our long time friend, Jack Curtis, who used to live here in South Florida moved down to Adelaide a few years back after he married an Aussie girl. He was our guest just a week ago when his daughter graduated from college here in U.S.
Jim Monreal
16 May 09 at 1:43 am
Hi Bob and Carol. I like many others have been following your home site with interest. I like what your doing. I am looking forward to seeing the house you build. Keep it up Bob-the world is watching. Oh and thank you for the piece on the golf course. That meant a lot to me. Ron
Ron
17 May 09 at 7:36 am
Hi Bob, we are in Sibalom visiting for the town fiesta. I would like to swing by your “house”project if time permits and you wouldn’t mind. Would you drop me an e-mail and we can coordinate a suitable time? Thanks so much.
Patrick
20 May 09 at 12:00 pm
I am interested in filing for a 13a visa from here is the usa. Does anyone know of a website or a person who can give me advice on it?
Joe
22 May 09 at 5:30 am
NOTE: the following is posted as some readers may be interested in the services offered. We have not used them so they’re just passed along for your own evaluation, GoIloilo.
I’m relocating to Iloilo from Los Angeles County. I would just like to say Hi and thank you for the insightful tips. Your page is really well organized and you’ve provided insightful tidbits, like the days for the market, home building experience and recommended doctors.
My father owns a home improvement/wood working business here in Pavia and I just wanted to invite you and your readers to come check us out if you ever have a chance.
http://pacificwoodmaster.blogspot.com/
I also am an avid yoga practicioner so I hope to lead some classes in the garden here as well.
http://yogainiloilo.blogspot.com/
hope to see you guys!
Liza Jardiolin
24 May 09 at 12:45 pm
bob and carol–your blog is a wonderful spot to “meet and greet”–maybe a cafe’ forum here for expats?? haha. i visit here almost everyday. i miss iloilo already
natie
24 May 09 at 8:40 pm
great idea natie. starbucks not allowed, only dunkin donuts. ha ha ha.
jmonreal
26 May 09 at 10:07 am
Hi Bob, For those that have asked about a flying club in the Iloilo area… I visited Visayas Aerospace college and technology at the Iloilo airport and spoke with their president, Orson Bahinting. They do rent planes and provide the necessary instruction for those wanting to get their Private rating. They currently have a Cessna 150, two 172s and a Barron 55E (twin). His number is 033-333-0330 for those wishing to get more information.
Patrick
5 Jun 09 at 11:06 pm
hi, can you please help me i want to buy a house a house in iloilo for cash i’m in u.s. right now that house is for my parents. what”s the safe way to send my money safe? is wiring thru the bank safe sense is involves millions of pesos. I will really appreaciate you advise. i just want my money to reach there safe.
thanks
may
8 Jun 09 at 12:29 am
May, I wanted to reply to you via private email but you did not leave an address. There’s no problem in wiring money from a U.S. bank to your U.S. dollar account at a Philippine bank. That’s the safe part. But, there are many, many potential problems with buying real estate; making sure the seller owns the property and has the right to sell it, making sure there are no encumbrances, making sure the title is recorded as soon as possible. I could go on and on. In my section on real estate http://goiloilo.com/category/iloilo-real-estate-rentals-apartments-houses/I recommend Jeanette Ong, and Iloilo attorney and a real estate Internet group which offers good advice.
GOIloilo
8 Jun 09 at 7:13 pm
May, I completely agree with Bob - you need a good and honest attorney you can trust, and a Philippine bank account. Don’t just sign any legal documents yet until you have a lawyer to verify all the papers. Maybe, you need to go home first and do these things. Is the house already built, ready for occupancy, or still to be constructed?
jim monreal
8 Jun 09 at 8:48 pm
Hello once again,Bob & Carol. How’s the building progress of your house? i would like to thank Carol for posting some of our traditional filipino food, market, houses & etc. I actually printed it out and used it in my scrapbook about filipino culture. This scrapbook is for the clients which i am volunteering. The place(Mai-Wel)is a non-profit organization which involved in helping not-able people involved in community activities and work.I will try to cook on our cultural day celebration some filipino food, i’ll let you know how it goes.The staff & clients are lovely people to work with.
I also would like to thank Jim Monreal for posting a note for me. I am delighted of your response and hello to your lovely wife. My birth place is quinayangan Tunga,Masbate.I am not sure if she heard years ago a passenger pamboat called Inday Mildred.Adelaide is quite far from NSW which i live. I haven’t been to Baleno, Masbate. But my parents and relatives did. I still have many relatives that lives in masbate and i miss and hoping to see them again one day. Love to hear from you and your wife.Maybe i can keep in touch with your friends here in Australia.
Thanks,Aussie Inday
Aussie Inday
10 Jun 09 at 11:06 am
Aussie Inday, my wife’s name before we got married - Luth Bajar Joson. Her email address is symonreal@aol.com
jim monreal
10 Jun 09 at 11:33 am
Hello Bob and Carol. Thank you very much for a very insightful blog … can’t wait to see the house progress. I myself from Oton, Iloilo living in Canada right now. Your place is just next to ours and I actually remember the area. We were home last Nov to Jan and planning to go back next year. I hope we will have a chance to meet you and Carol and to visit your project. Slowly we are making our move to Iloilo too … to enjoy life so we are gathering as much information as we can.
Reading your blog inspired us. Thanks again. Angie
Angie
11 Jun 09 at 11:08 pm
Hi! Bob and Carol. Hope you’re all doing great. I’m sure your house project is nearing completion. Please continue to update us with the progress, all aspects going smoothly and not so smoothly, and the pictures. Thanks for being so generous in sharing your Iloilo experiences with us.
To Angie, my wife is also from Oton and we intend to spend most of our time in Sta. Rita, Oton, when we retire in a few years. My wife’s maiden name is Figueroa. Best of luck to you. Hope we get to meet and know each other someday.
My regards to all.
Ulysses
Ulysses
13 Jun 09 at 9:42 pm
Hello Bob and Carol. I enoy reading about your experience. My wife grew up in Miagao and we visited in April after 30 long years. We rented a car with a driver and went looking for a land to buy, including Lauan, Antique her birthplace. I like it much better than Olongapo where I grew up. I left in 1972.
But your story about the fence and the sewer kinda cooled me off. But I’m still considering about retiring in Iloilo.
Ed
14 Jun 09 at 11:36 am
i couldn’t think of a better place than Iloilo…but of course, i’m biased…hi, Bob and Carol!!
natie
15 Jun 09 at 8:48 pm
Ulysses, what is your wife’s first name? the last name is so familiar as I recall way back in high school. Is she related to Alicia? I went to Oton High School from 1975-1979 and I grew up in Bita Sur, Oton. My husband is from San Isidro, Nueva Ecija but Oton, Iloilo will be our destination to retire. Anyway, Sta. Rita is a nice place too and it is very close to town and to the city. There are few subdivisions close to Santa Rita now (Florville and Santa Filomena). We are planning to go back home again on April next year as we have project going on too. Keep in touch and will hope to see you guys someday.
Bob and Carol, thanks for the respond. We will keep in touch with you once we are in Oton.
Angie
15 Jun 09 at 11:39 pm
Angie,
My wife has a sister named Alicia. She and her family live in L.A. My wife’s name is Adelfa or Eden. She went to Oton High School as well. What is your maiden name?
Small world, isn’t it? Let’s keep in touch.
Regards to your family.
Ulysses
Anonymous
16 Jun 09 at 8:12 pm
Ulysses,
It is really a small world. My maiden name is Calantuan and my first name known back home is Angeles. If Alicia is your sister in law and we are talking the same person she was a year ahead of me in High School but we were staying at the same place at lunch time.
Say Hi to your family and sure will keep in touch.
Angie
Angie
16 Jun 09 at 9:17 pm
Hi Ed,
Don’t be discouraged by my accounts on http://www.goiloilo.com. I try to give an unvarnished picture of life here. Sometime I bend over backwards to describe the problems. This is because one person moved here in large part because he read my and others glowing reports. He decided the Philippines was not all it was cranked up to be. After that, I have gone out of my way to not oversell Iloilo or the Philippines. Sure there are problems, but we love it here and I would never go back to the US.
Antique Province is wonderful and Miago a favorite of ours. Only you can decide if life in the Philippines is for you.
Good luck
Bob and Carol Hammerslag
GOIloilo
17 Jun 09 at 8:50 am
Ed,
I was born and grew up in Miagao. Did your wife graduate from Miagao High School? I did in 1961. What’s her maiden name? Regards to you and your wife.
Jaime Monreal
jim monreal
17 Jun 09 at 10:19 am
Hello Jim, i hope you received the email i sent to your lovely wife.
I really thanks to Bob & Carol for this site, it’s very interesting and enjoyable to read. It’s a kind of a family reunion of your lost long family. It’s also very helpful for future retirees. It helps me thinking more of retiring there in Iloilo. My dearest family lives around Visayas, so it would be nice to be around with them for a change.
I am excited to see the progress of your house and the finish product. I am wondering if you were able to visit Asilo de la Milgrosa at molo.
Take care and God Bless, Aussie Inday
Aussie Inday
19 Jun 09 at 6:42 am
Aussie Inday, my wife did not receive your e-mail. So did I. You may send it to jm@antiaginggenesis.com, reference Aussie Inday. Thanks and Regards.
jim monreal
20 Jun 09 at 2:41 am