🇵🇭 20 Hard Q&A About the Philippines!

The speaker has recently discovered that information-type videos on YouTube generate more income than travel videos. YouTube's algorithm detects the niche of uploaded content and charges advertisers accordingly, with the travel niche being less lucrative due to its widespread popularity. Consequently, the speaker plans to produce more information-based videos, such as "top 10" lists, to leverage this insight. The speaker discusses various aspects of the Philippines, including reasons why some tourists might reconsider retiring there. They note that the Philippines is perceived as "the wild wild west" for tourists compared to other Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, which reportedly attract more Western female solo travelers. The speaker speculates about the reasons for this disparity, suggesting there must be underlying factors. Regarding visas, the speaker mentions hearing about a six-month tourist visa available at the Manila Bureau of Immigration, but also notes that there might be stipulations that disqualify most applicants. They ask viewers for more information on this topic. A key advantage of the Philippines over other countries is the prevalence of English, which makes navigation easier despite not being spoken fluently by everyone. Additionally, the Philippines is noted for its women who are open to age-gap relationships and its beautiful blue ocean waters. However, a trend of individuals leaving the Philippines is observed, with people getting "sick of it here" due to constant frustrations. The speaker shares an anecdote about a confusing experience at a grocery store express lane, where a cashier's non-verbal communication led to a 10-minute wait before discovering the lane was closed. This is presented as an example of the "death by a thousand cuts" mentality, where a lack of care or accountability is common. Another example cited is the perpetual road construction in the provinces, attributed to a corrupt system where construction company owners get elected as mayors and award contracts to themselves. The "Babaroonies" culture, referring to the age-gap relationships, is highlighted as a significant aspect of the Philippines, unlike other countries. The speaker suggests that women, in general, seek attention through makeup and appearance, and in the context of the Philippines, some women are particularly keen on attracting foreign men. The speaker addresses their recent 10-day absence from YouTube, explaining they were ill in Angeles City before moving to Pasay, Manila, awaiting a flight to Vancouver, Canada. They dismiss rumors of being jailed with another vlogger, Sim, clarifying that police did visit their house in Angeles City but only to ask for an autograph. The decision to focus on information videos is reiterated as a means to make more money without constant travel, aligning with the speaker's dream of settling down, cooking, and "pumping iron." They mention Pagadian as a surprisingly safe and comfortable place they considered living, noting its friendly people, cheap housing, and lack of other foreigners. The speaker then addresses a previous video about an American man who traveled to the Philippines to meet his long-distance girlfriend, Jenny, but ended up not liking her as much as he thought. The man still engaged in a physical relationship before returning home and ending the relationship. The speaker defends the man, suggesting that feelings can evolve and it's not always an immediate realization. An update is provided: the man, Scott Chocolate, found true love with another online girlfriend and is living with her in the Philippines, while Jenny also found a partner. Comparing Angeles City and Pattaya, the speaker states that Pattaya is a superior city with better nightlife and dining options, though Angeles City is unique in the Philippines. Regarding the motivations of Filipino women in age-gap relationships, the speaker acknowledges that money is often a factor. They liken it to a McDonald's worker choosing their job, suggesting people play the best hand they're dealt. While an older American man might offer financial security, a Filipino man might offer a "good butt" but "no wallet." The speaker emphasizes that women prioritize security in a partner, while men often seek physical attraction and companionship. The speaker reflects on their early vlogging days when "babes" were a top priority, but new laws in the Philippines regarding filming Filipinos made them cautious. They clarify their presence in the Philippines, stating they came because they like the country. Addressing comments about "bar girls" in Angeles City, the speaker asserts that they are indeed looking for a "white knight" because they wouldn't be working in bars if they had better lives at home. While acknowledging that men might be "fleeced," the speaker suggests it's a common dynamic, and the question is the degree of fleecing and what is gained in return. They believe the days of finding a "good Filipina" easily are over, advocating for enjoying single life until a compatible partner is found. The speaker praises the kindness and hospitality of most Filipinos, especially the poor and middle class, noting that they are remarkably accommodating despite a history of foreign invasions. They mention the vlogger Sim (Prolife Traveler) is in jail, and his partner, Jolina, has her own successful YouTube channel, Jolina Daily Vibes. The speaker admits to past mistakes, including ignoring "red flags" in a previous relationship due to physical attraction. They also express regret about selling their NMAX scooter, which provided the "most fun 12 months" of their life, and fantasize about riding around the Philippines again. If they do, they plan to be more organized, particularly with rain gear and reliable internet for uploading videos and live streams. They dismiss Starlink as impractical for hotel stays, favoring an expensive pocket Wi-Fi as a potentially faster solution. Finally, the speaker addresses comments about birth control in the Philippines, noting its cheap over-the-counter availability but suggesting girls might not know or prioritize its use. They also discuss the nature of relationships, acknowledging that during their travels, serious long-term commitments were not a priority. They conclude by emphasizing the importance of keeping private matters off-camera to avoid legal troubles, referencing Sim's situation. They also provide an update on "the great Anna," who is now married, living in America, and documenting her adjustment to life there. The speaker rejects the "high-value man" concept as not their style and encourages compassion and empathy towards less fortunate individuals.