Happiness and Affordability in the Philippines: An Insider's Perspective

Are Filipinos Happy in Their Own Country? In this article, I share my personal perspective as someone who has moved out for good, becoming a US citizen, and have not yet reacquired my Philippine citizenship. I recently returned to the Philippines to visit my family and introduce my husband to them, concluding that I am deeply grateful for the politeness and acceptance I have encountered even from those with reservations about same-sex relationships.

Happiness and Family Dynamics in the Philippines

I would like to start by commending my family members for their acceptance towards my lifestyle. Even those with doubts and concerns about homosexuality were outwardly polite. This shows a significant shift in social attitudes within the Philippines, where I was born and raised, and which I left behind forty years ago to pursue a new life in America. I have now turned 58, an age that many consider elderly in my homeland.

City Life vs. Small Towns in the Philippines

Despite the soft landing in easing immigration policies, I still prefer the vibrant, bustling cities over small towns. One of my reservations was the prospect of being the minority in a small pool of residents. After all, I am an urban person through and through. I believe that certain advantages and conveniences may be better experienced in smaller towns, but I have made a conscious decision against it. Instead, I enjoy the dynamic, crowded urban environments and the vibrancy that comes with them. My days are filled with exploring these places and making the most of what life offers in the here and now.

Travel and Explore Asia

In addition to exploring the diverse landscapes and cultures within the Philippines, I also enjoy traveling to other Asian countries. The ASEAN region, where the Philippines is located, is booming and has seen significant economic growth. This makes it an attractive destination for travelers looking for cultural immersion and economic opportunities.

Cost of Living and Family Experiences

During my recent visit, I was able to reacquaint myself with my family in the Philippines for a two-week period. It is important to note that while I was able to meet most of my siblings, I missed connecting with two of them. This visit also allowed me to experience firsthand the higher cost of living in the Philippines compared to neighboring countries like Thailand. While we stayed in Thailand for three nights, I discovered that Bangkok could be more affordable than long-term living in the Philippines.

Facilities and Infrastructure for People with Disabilities

Disability facilities and infrastructure continue to be a concern in the Philippines and Thailand. My husband, who has a disability, faced limited accessibility options despite clear room for improvement. This experience serves as a reminder that inclusive design is essential and that facilities should be developed with the needs of all individuals in mind.

Challenges of High Inflation and Profiteering

Inflation rates in the Philippines are currently high, and this trend shows no signs of abating. The situation is exacerbated by industry setups that prioritize profit over the well-being of consumers. It is clear that the leaders and managers of the country need to take decisive action to mitigate these rising costs and ensure that consumers are not left behind.

Your Opinions Matter

Have you had similar experiences in the Philippines or other Southeast Asian countries? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments section below. Let's continue this important conversation to help make the Philippines and other areas more affordable and accessible for all residents and visitors alike.