Utility Hook-ups
For Water and Electricity:
- Electricity is the most expensive utility in the country.
- Water and electricity are normally connected in all properties and registered under the name of the property owner. Billing is based on the tenant’s move-in date. Power and water meter readings are part of the move-in process.
- Some properties do not allow gas ranges, especially in condominiums. For those who allow it, the landlord normally provides a new tank regulator upon move-in. However, most new condominium complexes have a centralized gas facility. Tenants need to activate the connection upon move-in.
For Cable and Internet:
- For new installations – subscription can be done in a day but scheduling the installation is a challenge. Depending on the availability of the installers, this is usually scheduled one (1) to two (2) weeks from the application date or in as little as two (2) to five (5) days.
- Cable and internet subscription is normally under the name of the tenant.
- If with prior connection (active) under the name of the landlord – billing is pro-rated from the date of move-in and move-out.
For Telephone Landline:
- For new subscription – installation takes one (1) to two (2) weeks. Proof of residence and employment in the Philippines are requirements for approval of telephone subscription.
- Some providers have this bundled with the internet and thus can be installed on the same day.
- Should there be a connection under the landlord’s name, billing is pro-rated from the date of move-in and upon move-out.
Security & Safety Precautions
- Registration at the Embassy upon arrival.
- Higher and better security protocols and systems are observed and applied, especially in offices, villages, and condominium properties.
- Properties selected in the neighborhoods have 24/7 private security.
- Prevention awareness is still the best policy to keep one safe and secure.
Challenges of Expats on the Ground
Housing
- Housing availability, amenities, and location go hand in hand with budget.
- Always keep in mind we will work within your approved budget to find homes that meet your needs.
- Landlords may be difficult and not receptive to the needs of their tenants.
- Defining normal wear and tear against damages borne out of the fault or negligence of tenants.
- Most condominium owners do not accept pets in the leased property. Condominium associations are likewise very strict when it comes to pets. However, single-detached homes do accept pets.
Transportation
- Extremely heavy traffic most of the time, especially during rush hours, the rainy season, and holidays.
- Public transport system: Taxis, MRT, TNVS (e.g. Grab).
- Having a private vehicle provides convenience for your daily and weekend routines.
Healthcare System:
- Public hospitals are cheap but not reliable.
- Private hospitals are reliable but expensive.
- Know which hospitals are accredited under your medical plan.
Delay in Services:
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- Immigration processing in the Philippines is one of the longest in the world. Application of work visa is IN COUNTRY, expat employee and/or dependents will need to be in the country while the work visa is being processed. Depending on the type of visa, processing can take 2-4 months.
- Delay in receiving household goods shipment as the Philippines port is one of the busiest in South-East Asia.
- Securing school spots for children may take longer than expected due to high demand of international schools from international assignees.
Cultural Differences:
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- Embrace cultural differences instead of seeing them as challenges.
- Having clear expectations is good but being flexible will definitely help. The Philippines may differ from your home country in many aspects.
- Most Filipinos are laid back by nature, as a result, provision of services may be slow and often delayed without notice. This applies for public as well as private contractors.
- Right management of house-help, housekeepers, nannies, drivers.
- As some assignees may not be used to having them it is important that you understand how to address them correctly so they can perform their duties accordingly.
Climate Conditions, Natural Calamities:
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- Being a tropical country and located within the Pacific Ring of Fire, expect the following:
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- Hot and humid climate
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- Typhoons almost half of the year, flooding in some parts of the country
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- Volcanic eruptions and quakes are felt all year round
- Be alert and ready. Keep an emergency kit for members of each household and ensure each one is aware of the emergency and evacuation protocols.
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- Being a tropical country and located within the Pacific Ring of Fire, expect the following:
