The Philippines Doesn’t Create The Monster, It Feeds It!
Introduction
Cheap booze and easy hookups. Total freedom with almost no limits. Sounds like paradise, diba? But, for many, the freedom found in the Philippines is an insidious trap. This freedom and easy access to everything you want will indeed test your self-control like nothing you’ve experienced. If you’re a veteran and feel the most comfortable around former military guys, watch the video and I’ll give you (what I consider to be) one of the best locations for fun and likely success. Keep in mind The purpose of this post is not to condemn, but to help everyone succeed.
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Our Perspective
The majority of expats who fail here are NOT stupid, they’re not simps, nor are they fools. Instead of condemning those who end up going home, let’s examine how these good men fail in the Philippines, and how we can help them succeed. Make no mistake, The lure here is real and so are the temptations. My first visit was in 1980 and much is still the same. The fact is, no matter how many videos you watch, you can’t understand the reality of the Philippines until you experience it yourself. There is no place on earth that can compare to the opportunity for both success and failure at the same time.
Be warned, If you already struggle with self-control when it comes to drinking and hooking-up, this might not be the best place for you. However, if you're a smart, capable guy who's willing to be honest with yourself and build better habits, there are many of us here willing put a boot in your ass if you need it.
Lets dive deeper
When it comes to Freedom: The Philippines makes it incredibly easy to live here long-term. The Philippines SRRV (retirement visa) is the best option in Asia and lets you enter and exit freely without constant visa runs. You can also stay on a tourist visa for up to three years making immigration pretty much a non-issue.
The low cost of living, warm, social culture, and basically zero big brother, you can pretty much do whatever you want, whenever you want. For a disciplined man with clear goals, this freedom is liberating, especially when coming from the west. There are virtually zero speed traps, everything is less expensive, and there are almost no Karens. When you add to that, a culture that is incredibly kind and tolerant, proves unicorn dust does exist. It’s here in the Philippines!
But if self-control is a challenge, the lack of strong external structure here can become a trap. In the Philippines, You set your own rules, and that's exactly why any existing weakness gets magnified so quickly.
Booze and Habits: Alcohol is a real concern in the Philippines. It's dirt cheap and available virtually everywhere. Even on the side of the road (in the middle of nowhere) you’re going to be able to find a sari-sari store with Red Horse. If you have a tendency to drink more than you should, the low prices, availability and constant social invitations, become a threat to your success.
With excessive drinking, your Health takes a hit, good habits falter, and Relationships suffer. The Philippines didn't create the monster, they just make it cheaper and easier to feed. The good news is that there are many expats here who will help you fight that monster. Just remember, that if you surround yourself with the type of people who offer you a cigarette when you’re trying to quit smoking, you need better friends.
Sex and Relationships: The Philippines is well-known for drawing men here who are looking for easy options. Recent data still rank the Philippines highly among other destinations for sex tourism. Getting caught-up in the easy dating can land you in trouble here, especially if you take home a married lady. Even if she lied to you, adultery is a crime and opens you up to criminal prosecution, and extortion. Add the risk of STD’s, you’re playing Russian roulette.
Spending: The desire to help new friends, and pay for everyone at the table can mark you as an easy target. As you expand your social circle, the likely growing requests for financial help can push your monthly costs from a comfortable base to an amount you can’t sustain.
Best Solution
You have to set boundaries. My most important rule is “say no first” when asked for money, asked to volunteer, or invited to dinners and parties. It’s very difficult to back-out once you’ve agreed; however, it’s very easy to agree at a later date. A lot of smart guys fall into the above traps because doing so is almost effortless. The key is recognizing it early, seeking advice from those who are successful here, and having the discipline to follow that good advice.
Conclusions
The Philippines will reveal and magnify both your weaknesses and strengths, thus your true character will be exposed! If you're disciplined, kind, and goal-oriented, the low costs and friendly people can help you build an amazing life. But, if you're prone to excessive drinking, over-spending, or engaging in casual sex, the “Self-Sabotage knob” gets turned up to Eleven in no time.
The Philippines is an incredible place, but it's not for everyone. If you’re prone to impulsive behaviors, the Philippines may not be the ideal spot for you. Before you decide to move here, do the hard work on yourself first. Self-discipline is your best "visa" for long-term success here.
Many of those who have failed are sharp and capable men. They just needed a better system for accountability. In this community, we don't judge, we hold each other accountable in a respectful way and help one another level up so we can actually succeed and enjoy what the Philippines has to offer. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
For the veterans: I highly recommend you consider Zambales as a place to settle. Specifically from Olongapo north to San Narcisso. There is nothing more beneficial than having a salty sailor or marine put you back on course. You fleet guys know exactly what I’m talking about.
If this hits close to home, drop a comment below with your biggest concern or question about moving to the Philippines.
Better thinking equals a better life.
Joe out!