ForumTitleContentMemberSexCountryDate/Time
PhilippinesI MISS MY LIFE
QUOTE (jom @ Dec 19 2008, 08:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (my_panacea = Greg @ Dec 18 2008, 04:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Guys, I have a question... What if your husband doesn't want you to work?
he just wants you to stay at the house and be a dedicated housewife?
what are you goin to feel?, do?....



Its what you want, not what he wants.

Goodluck!

QUOTE (sonomacountygal @ Dec 19 2008, 10:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (nickoftime @ Dec 19 2008, 05:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (my_panacea = Greg @ Dec 18 2008, 04:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Guys, I have a question... What if your husband doesn't want you to work?
he just wants you to stay at the house and be a dedicated housewife?
what are you goin to feel?, do?....


I will start to consider him a control freak and an abusive husband!

Seriously, your husband has no right whatsoever to ask you not to work and to just stay at home and be a dedicated wife. It's more of an economic abuse which may constitute an act of violence against a woman. To work. explore all your possibilities and maximize your potentialities are your basic rights that your husband should respect and which you must protect.


I think you are setting the cart before the horse here. If the husband wanted to marry an uppity liberated woman, he would have found one here in the US of A. But he didn't, and he deserves the respect he is entitled to. He went through great expense and effort to bring you here, and the least you can do is try to make things work. You have a lifetime to "persuade" your husband to a more equitable relationship. But for now, try to meet his expectations for an Asian wife.



Is staying home an expectation from an asian wife?


I wasn't tallking about expectations from an Asian wife, but rather the husband's expectations for an Asian wife. And, those expectations/misconceptions will vary from husband to husband. Probably the best thing to do is to work things out, talk things through. However, there is an expectation, misguided though it may be, that the Asian wife is inherently submissive and will bend to the will of her husband.

She always has the weapon of "Tampo".

This is what I am talking about. http://filipinawives.com/Tampo.htm

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2008-12-19 11:03:00
PhilippinesI MISS MY LIFE
QUOTE (nickoftime @ Dec 19 2008, 05:21 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (my_panacea = Greg @ Dec 18 2008, 04:59 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Guys, I have a question... What if your husband doesn't want you to work?
he just wants you to stay at the house and be a dedicated housewife?
what are you goin to feel?, do?....


I will start to consider him a control freak and an abusive husband!

Seriously, your husband has no right whatsoever to ask you not to work and to just stay at home and be a dedicated wife. It's more of an economic abuse which may constitute an act of violence against a woman. To work. explore all your possibilities and maximize your potentialities are your basic rights that your husband should respect and which you must protect.


I think you are setting the cart before the horse here. If the husband wanted to marry an uppity liberated woman, he would have found one here in the US of A. But he didn't, and he deserves the respect he is entitled to. He went through great expense and effort to bring you here, and the least you can do is try to make things work. You have a lifetime to "persuade" your husband to a more equitable relationship. But for now, try to meet his expectations for an Asian wife.
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2008-12-19 10:18:00
PhilippinesTo All Pinays
QUOTE (RonMay @ Jan 10 2009, 09:30 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Rocky_nBullwinkle @ Jan 10 2009, 09:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (rockbabyrock27 @ Jan 10 2009, 06:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hey there mga kababayans, just wanna know, I just got here in Colorado, and I'm out of contraceptive pills, anybody here know where to buy? My husband just got laid off and is still in the process of looking for a job, so he lost his medical insurance and cant get contraceptive here in the USA without the doc's prescription, I have been using Althea pills for almost 6 months now, so can anyone have idea where to get the pill? thanks to everyone who will take time to reply. Have a fruitful 2009 everyone.


You can go to your local county health services and get family planning for a little or no cost at all. That's what I did when I first got here and before my husband was able to put me on his medical insurance.

Don't get caught receiving prescription drugs from a foreign country especially when it's not prescribed for you. Big deal, big jail time.


that's a good point though... but i am just curios coz the pills was prescribed by my doctor in phil (when i was still in phil anways)... and although fedex and ups wont accept any kind of medicines since they say its not allowed, post office in the other hand accept it and that you'll have to write whats in the package. so my mom always write "medicine" (and among others) in the description and even registered it... i always go claim it to the local post office since its a registered mail/package. and they know and can check whats in it by just reading the description that there's drugs/medicine inside... thats what confuses me if its really a big jail time on my part.


I am probably exagerating. But, I would not want to encourage the practice either. I did some quick checking, and here is what I found:

The FDA's enforcement efforts focus on drugs for commercial use, fraudulent drugs, and products that pose an unreasonable health risk.

  • If a bag or package arouses suspicion, customs will set it aside and contact the nearest office of the FDA or the Drug Enforcement Agency for advice on whether to release or detain the drug product.
  • Even though your bag may not be checked, it is against the law not to properly declare imported medications to customs. Failure to declare products could result in penalties.
  • Possession of certain medications without a prescription from a licensed physician may violate federal, state, and local laws.
  • Prescription drugs should be stored in their original containers, and you should have a copy of your doctor's prescription or letter of instruction.
  • If a drug is detained, the FDA is required by law to send you a written notice asking whether you can show that the product meets legal requirements. If you can't, the drug could be destroyed or returned to the sender.
For more information about the U.S. Customs Service, visit the agency's Web site, www.customs.ustreas.gov.


Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-11 00:39:00
PhilippinesTo All Pinays
QUOTE (rockbabyrock27 @ Jan 10 2009, 06:42 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
hey there mga kababayans, just wanna know, I just got here in Colorado, and I'm out of contraceptive pills, anybody here know where to buy? My husband just got laid off and is still in the process of looking for a job, so he lost his medical insurance and cant get contraceptive here in the USA without the doc's prescription, I have been using Althea pills for almost 6 months now, so can anyone have idea where to get the pill? thanks to everyone who will take time to reply. Have a fruitful 2009 everyone.


You can go to your local county health services and get family planning for a little or no cost at all. That's what I did when I first got here and before my husband was able to put me on his medical insurance.

Don't get caught receiving prescription drugs from a foreign country especially when it's not prescribed for you. Big deal, big jail time.
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-10 23:42:00
Philippinesincome tax ?
Thanks. I was having a hard time dragging from the PDF to the editor.
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-26 12:02:00
Philippinesincome tax ?
QUOTE (stevent @ Jan 26 2009, 08:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (Rocky_nBullwinkle @ Jan 26 2009, 10:01 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (KFC @ Jan 26 2009, 07:58 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (marivicandshane @ Jan 26 2009, 10:57 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
guys, did u send a photocopy of your husband income tax for 3 yrs? i mean lke 2005,2006,2007?,have u send it together with your application for aos?thanks a lot


its up 2 u. the latest one u need to submit it. the other two is optional.


For AOS it is three years to be filed with the I-864, and bring your last ITR to the interview.

--Bullwinkle


i just submit the latest ITR... good.gif

d other two is optional innocent.gif



You are correct. Only the last ITR is required, unless you are self-employed. But, I strongly reccommend sending in three years of returns. You will have to bring your previous returns with you to your AOS interview if you do not do so.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-26 11:39:00
Philippinesincome tax ?
QUOTE (KFC @ Jan 26 2009, 07:58 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (marivicandshane @ Jan 26 2009, 10:57 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
guys, did u send a photocopy of your husband income tax for 3 yrs? i mean lke 2005,2006,2007?,have u send it together with your application for aos?thanks a lot


its up 2 u. the latest one u need to submit it. the other two is optional.


For AOS it is three years to be filed with the I-864, and bring your last ITR to the interview.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-26 11:01:00
PhilippinesBringing my wife over
QUOTE (martinbr @ Jan 26 2009, 04:27 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello everyone, I haven't been here for around 5 months due to an illness. But now that i have recovered from this, I want to continue to get my wife and her child over here to be with me. But I have to wait until I get a buyout from my job that is coming to a end in June, 09.

I am worried about bringing my wife over because of uncertainty of my financial situation. I have enough money to get here over here but I don't know if I am going to be working or in the unemployment line with so many other people that are out of work here.l

But with this buyout that I am getting from my job, it might be the only time for a long, long time that i would be able to pay for everything that needs to be paid to get my new family here.

Some people say I should just get her here and things will work out and that Filipinos are resilient and find some way to make it work wherever they are. There are a lot of Filipinos where I live in the S.F. bay area so maybe that would make things easier for here.

My only other option would be to just take a trip over there after my job ends and spend some time with her and try to bring her over here when things get better. I am just afraid it's going to turn into a big disaster if I don't have enough money to take care of them.

I miss my wife so much. It's going on two years since i have seen her and she really wants me to get things going here. I know she isn't going to wait forever although she said she would.

thanks,
martinbr


IR-1 / CR-1 Visa
Event Date
Service Center : California Service Center
Consulate : Manilla, Philipines
Marriage : 2007-11-19
I-130 Sent : 2008-03-07
I-130 NOA1 : 2008-03-17
I-130 Approved : 2008-06-16
NVC Received : 2008-06-30
Received DS-3032 / I-864 Bill : 2008-07-02
Pay I-864 Bill
Receive I-864 Package :
Return Completed I-864 :
Return Completed DS-3032 :
Receive IV Bill :
Pay IV Bill :
Receive Instruction Package :
Case Completed at NVC :
NVC Left :
Consulate Received :
Packet 3 Received :
Packet 3 Sent :
Packet 4 Received :
Interview Date :
Visa Received :
US Entry :
Comments :
Processing
Estimates/Stats : Your I-130 was approved in 91 days from your NOA1 date.



I think you should have a little more faith in your wife, and if now is when you can afford to bring her over, now is the time to do it. It's much easier to do things with two people helping each other than one person trying to do things alone. Who knows what the future holds? But if she is here with you, you can face that future together.
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-26 10:43:00
PhilippinesKelan kayo nag-umpisang mag-pack ng inyong suitcase?
QUOTE (pangga @ Dec 27 2008, 10:33 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Since most of the malls have big discounts now...bumili na ako ng bagong suitcase in preparation for my trip. Masyadong excited blush.gif

Kayo, kelan kayo nag-start mag-pack ng luggage nyo?

smile.gif


I started packing the day before my flight to the US of A. It's a good thing my husband was kind enough to lend me his suitcase which is big. I didn't have to buy a new one. It's okay if you pack your stuff early. That way you won't forget something. good.gif

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2008-12-28 15:22:00
PhilippinesSomething to watch for...Yahoo Messenger Archive
QUOTE (Mykuls Merry Ann @ Jan 26 2009, 10:16 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Something all of you might want to watch out for is we took screenshots of the our yahoo messenger archive all the way back to Aug 2005. The consular complained that this was not sufficient becuase it did notshowthe actual conversation, all it showed were the dates and times we chatted online. We were ready for that, because we had all kinds of back up evidence of phone bills, emails, and money transfers etc. But we were a little surprised by that.

So the best way to do it, is take a screen shot of a few full chat conversations. And then add on the message archive as well. But always have some some some extra bullets in your holster. Like dont put forth all your evidence at first, but keep some to hand over to them if needed. 3 types of evidence should be sifficient for proof of a relationship. But take 5 or 6 different types, so that you have bring out that if needed. It seems the pre-screeners try their best to find any little thing. So let them do their job, by complaineing, then you can have a good exchange by bringing out some new evidence to them. Remember a lot of people who work as consulars and pre-screeners are being watched. They are also putting on a show that they are doing their job. So help them out a little bit.


Congratulations for making it this far, and hope the rest of the proccess goes well for you. Reading the information available at the USEM website can alleviate some of the trouble you encountered for future interviewees:

Preparing for your interview
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-27 10:59:00
PhilippinesCheaters..and those who marry cheaters
QUOTE (charles! @ Jan 27 2009, 09:24 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (pepe N pilar @ Jan 27 2009, 11:18 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Charles, if there is a group picture like this one but it's about members of the non-distaff side, wouldn't you be one of the models?





distaff adj. Of the female branch of the family.

I had to look it up too!
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-27 12:26:00
PhilippinesCheaters..and those who marry cheaters




Can't have Jerry Springer without lesbians!

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-27 12:07:00
PhilippinesCheaters..and those who marry cheaters
QUOTE (charles! @ Jan 27 2009, 08:13 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>


rofl.gif This could be better that Kill Bill Vol 1 & 2!

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-27 11:39:00
PhilippinesCheaters..and those who marry cheaters

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-27 11:09:00
Philippinese-ticket (what is needed at airport?)
The credit card/passport issue for e-tickets seems only to apply to Philippine Airlines, from what has been said here.

PAL Check-In FAQ


PAL E-Ticket FAQ

These faq's are for Philippine Airlines only! You can check with your carrier for their policies, which are different.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-25 11:26:00
Philippinese-ticket (what is needed at airport?)
QUOTE (luntian @ Jan 24 2009, 08:40 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I did not pay 1650 but 750 the first time I flew here. And somebody told me that I do not need to pay 750 again coz I will be home soon she told me that all I have to pay is 200 pesos and show my green card that I am resident now Is this true???



If you bought your ticket in the Philippines, the travel tax was included in the price of the ticket (VAT). If the ticket was bought outside the RP, then the tax is collected when you get your boarding pass. The 750 PP is charged to all departing travelers, because it is not a tax, it is a terminal fee, 550 PP for use of facilities, and 200 PP to offset security costs.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-24 11:53:00
Philippinese-ticket (what is needed at airport?)
QUOTE (Matt & Bing @ Jan 24 2009, 06:46 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (bluemist @ Jan 24 2009, 03:11 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
My fiancee bought my ticket.And I just printed out the e-ticket and that's what I showed to NAIA,with my passport and CFO stamped.

Travel tax is 1,620php and terminal fee is 750php.My flight was January 17th.


Happy Trip sayo.


What is this travel tax? I paid the terminal fee of 750php in November but no tax. Is the tax something that only Filipinos pay?? Thanks.


The travel tax is based on how long your stay was in the Philippines. Most visitors don't stay long enough to require paying the tax. If you used a visa, you probably had to pay the tax. The good news for Balikbayans is that you will be excempted from all, or most of the tax, when you return for an extended visit, along with some other "perks".

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-24 11:08:00
Philippinese-ticket (what is needed at airport?)
The wife says there are carts available at the sidewalk where she gets dropped off. She has to pass through a security check point before she enters the terminal. From there, she should check in at the airline desk to check her bags, and get her boarding pass. She will pay the travel tax before she gets her boarding pass (it was 1200 PP for September 2007) and go to the airport desk before the next security check point and pay the terminal fee of 750PP and they will check her passport for a CFO stamp. She will go through one more security check at the departure gate before she goes into the waiting area.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-23 22:55:00
Philippinese-ticket (what is needed at airport?)
QUOTE (cieloazul @ Jan 23 2009, 06:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hello, I read some older topics on VJ but wanted to check with recent travelers to see if anything had changed (higher tax, fees, etc.).

What docs are needed at the airport for an e-ticket? I purchased the tickets from expedia with credit card so does she need a copy of the card? Does she need to go by the airline, NWA, before the flight?

Also, I've read the travel tax is 1650 php and the airport fee is 750; is this still the same?

Are there porters available to help with bags?

This link has some good info but I'm not sure if it is current.

http://www.philippin...la-airport.html


You should check with the airline for their boarding policy for e-tickets. Philippine Airlines requires a copy of the front of the credit card used to buy the ticket, showing all the numbers clearly, and a copy of the purchaser's government issued i.d., passport is what I sent for my fiancee. They may be able to tell you what the current terminal fee and travel tax is. As of February, 2007, it was 750 PP for the terminal fee.

--Bullwinkle

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 23 January 2009 - 10:41 PM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-23 22:39:00
Philippinesplease help again!!! No pink slip!!!
QUOTE (sweet_wifey22 @ Jan 24 2009, 08:27 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (rheanick @ Jan 24 2009, 11:17 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
USD 10 is not for K1, is for other non-immigrant visa. If you did this process, you wont get your money back.
For K1, you should pay USD 18.

QUOTE (sweet_wifey22 @ Jan 25 2009, 01:13 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hey guys....does someone from here scheduled their interview through visapoint??
I am just wonderin if we can scheduled from there??
It is only $ 10 when you will sched an interview, Is it true? It is not a scam?
Thanks!! biggrin.gif


sweet_wifey22 heart.gif



I am in k3 route......
K1 and K3 are the non-immigrant visa.
Am I correct?

Thanks for the reply.


Yes, but no. The "K" Visas are technically "non-immigrant" visas, but because the intention for the "K" Visa is to adjust status once in the US, they are processed in the same section as "immigrant" visas. So, using visapoint would schedule the appointment for the wrong section.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-24 11:43:00
Philippinessupport issue
QUOTE (ghomnet @ Jan 28 2009, 01:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
i have some rental property i acquired last year. I wanted to know how do i use that as support. Also they ask what the worth is do I just give them the going rate or do i say what the assessment is. We all know the assessment is never what it sales as. Some one pls help


I would think you have a couple ways to do it:

1) Show it as income property, and make a profit/loss statement for the rental.

2) The fair market value of the asset. If you can show listings for like properties in the area, or recent sales, that should do it. Remember, assests are not income, so they are evaluated over a five year period. A property worth $100,000 would be treated the same as $20,000 of income.

--Bullwinkle

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 28 January 2009 - 05:27 PM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-28 17:25:00
Philippineshotel near SLEC
QUOTE (weluvourlittleman @ Jan 29 2009, 06:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
We’re starting to look for a decent hotel to stay at near SLEC when it’s time for my medical. Any recommendation, guys? Has anyone tried Casa Bocobo Hotel? How did you find it? How about City Garden Suites?

A similar thread was started earlier:

http://www.visajourn...howtopic=174028

It depends how much you want to spend, but for value, check out my recommendation in the above post.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-29 21:17:00
Philippinespeer counseling session PDOS
QUOTE (livelife @ Jan 30 2009, 07:04 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Dear VJ members,
My 14 year son is required to attend the PDOS ,do wee need to bring the DSWD travel clearance to the session upon registration?Where can i get this,how much is the payment?


Check this thread out:

http://www.visajourn...howtopic=158711

and

http://www.cfo.gov.ph/
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-30 22:10:00
Philippineshotel to stay near st lukes and US embassy?
Townhouse Hotel

We stayed here, near Coastal Mall, just off Roxas Blvd and NAIA Road, in Tambo Paranaque. Nothing fancy, just cheap, clean rooms.

--Bullwinkle

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 29 January 2009 - 03:02 PM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-29 15:01:00
PhilippinesGUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SEMINAR - USEM Manila
QUOTE (adiiann @ Jan 29 2009, 06:56 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I got this from the CFO website.

" Under DFA Department Orders No. 28-94 and No. 11-97, Filipino spouses and other partners of foreign nationals are required to attend the guidance and counseling program as a pre-requisite to the issuance of passports. The objective is to help the said clientele make informed decisions and prepare them for the realities of cross-cultural marriages. "

I already have my passport. I'm seeing some loopholes on that requirements. LoL, I wouldn't care paying for 250 pesos for counseling fee, but I don't want to waste 1 day listening something I know will bored me to death.

Hmmmmmmm..... In the airport, when I travel, abroad, they didn't asked me anything, I just give my passport, then done.

There a second requirement, PDOS, Pre-Departure and Orientation Seminar, and that is the CFO Stamp/Sticker they look for before you can clear immigration at the airport. If you have the counseling certificate, and a passport, then you get the stamp and sticker.

It is not something you want to play games with. They already make things difficult at times for K-1 Visa holders at the airport, just because they can, especially if they are travelling alone. Just ask the wife.

--Bullwinkle

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 29 January 2009 - 10:17 PM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-29 22:14:00
PhilippinesGUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SEMINAR - USEM Manila
QUOTE (adiiann @ Jan 29 2009, 06:09 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Is this CFO seminary compulsory? Well, I can't understand why this is needed. Most of people I know who will work abroad or even decides to live there doesn't have this things.

What if I don't want to attend the seminar? What will happen?

Is this CFO seminar compulsory? Well, I can't understand why this is needed. Most of people I know who will work abroad or even decides to live there doesn't have this things.

What if I don't want to attend the seminar? What will happen?


They will not let you board without the CFO Stamp and Sticker. It is a Filipino Government requirement for immigrants and workers overseas.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-29 21:21:00
PhilippinesGUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SEMINAR - USEM Manila
QUOTE (SoInLove16 @ Jan 29 2009, 03:00 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Got that link already.



I am just guessing, but the content of the Spouses/Fiancees seminar is pretty "adult", so I doubt the kids would be there for that. I know they make a photo record of all the attendees, so I don't know if they need to be there for that. Have your fiancee call PRISM and find out, is all I can tell you.

--Bullwinkle

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 29 January 2009 - 06:43 PM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-29 18:42:00
PhilippinesGUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SEMINAR - USEM Manila
Hopefully, your answer is here:

CFO Homepage

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-29 17:47:00
PhilippinesCFO warns against fake papers
QUOTE (Jose Rizal @ Jan 30 2009, 10:19 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
What about the fees USEM/NVC are charging $15 is nothing compared to the $131 interview fees. Don't know why a lot are ranting over the seminar. But for the OFWs this seminar is very crucial. You may laugh at it but does serve a purpose. The horror stories of those leaving the country are quite true. A lot of Filipinos leaving the country, haven't been inside a plane yet. Whereas for example the $131 fee for an tourist visa nterview only to be denied most of the time (for honest Filipinos) is really a joke as it's a money making scheme. $131 is a lot of money.


I understand what you are saying. When you see it in pesos, it seems like real money. I remember getting mad at the taxi drivers who tried to overcharge, maybe 10, 25, 50, or even 100 pesos. "If you don't mind, I can turn off the meter and take another way to get you there for just 150 pesos," they would say, especially after dark. I was getting upset, until I thought to myself, I am argueing over paying fifty cents, or at most a buck overcharge! I might have tipped him more than that if he wasn't trying to scam me!

Starbucks, now that is a real rip-off!

--Bullwinkle

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 31 January 2009 - 11:19 AM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-31 11:18:00
PhilippinesCFO warns against fake papers
I ran across this jewel, and I wonder if the information is worth anything:


Roxas City -- The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) warns Filipino women and the pubic in general of fake CFO Guidance and Counseling Certificates and Registration Stickers sold by so-called recruitment agencies or marriage brokers.

The documents purport to show that the women are married to foreign nationals and therefore can leave for abroad usually for work.

The CFO said that such activities violate the Anti-Mail Order Bride Law (Republic Act No. 6955) and the Anti-Human Trafficking Law (RA 9208), which provides stiff fines and long prison terms.

On the other hand, the victims run the risk of being blacklisted by the government of their intended country of destination.

Filipino spouses and partners of foreign nationals are required to undergo the Guidance and Counseling Program of the CFO prior to applying for a Philippine passport.

There are only two counseling service providers accredited by the CFO, namely the St. Mary Euphrasia Foundation (SMEF-COW) and the People's Reform Initiative for Social Mobilization (PRISM). After complying with the counseling requirements, a certificate is issued to the Filipina spouse or partner of a foreign national.

A team from CFO led by Senior Emigrant Services Officer Kimberly Joy Dizon was here July 4-7 to conduct a Community Education Program to raise public awareness on various issues concerning migration, intermarriages and existing government policies and programs directed against illegal recruitment, documentation fraud, and human trafficking, among others.

The activity was done in coordination with the provincial government of Capiz, city government of Roxas and Philippine Information Agency with the support of the local tri-media, the academe, and community organizations. (PIA-JSC/CFO)


--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-29 19:13:00
Philippinesquestion about I-194
Bad news if you didn't get your I-94, or lost it, and you need one. The filing fee is $320. Here is the link:

Form I-102
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-31 16:47:00
Philippinesquestion about I-194
See if your answer is here:

http://www.visajourn...p?showtopic=302

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 31 January 2009 - 03:53 PM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-31 15:52:00
Philippinesquestion about I-194
QUOTE (bmtrrbt @ Jan 31 2009, 10:59 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I-194 was given to me in the plane and told me to fili it up and give it to the immigration officer in my poe..and ive read in the forum that a part of that form will be attached to your passport..

my question is..im in cr1 visa...and i wasnt given a part of that I-194...do i need that? or its only for non immigrant visa?

Thank you everybody.


The I-94 shows the visa status and date you arrived at your POE. I am not sure about CR1, but I would think if you entered using a visa, you should have been given an I-94. If you already have a non-conditional resident alien card (GC), then I would think you are done, so it does not matter. If you still have more to do to get your 10 year GC, then it would seem to matter, and I would find out more.

--Bullwinkle


Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-31 15:48:00
Philippinesmeeting the parents
QUOTE (RadzNSteve @ Jan 19 2009, 05:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Today was a good day. Radz is here in US and we went to my parents house for a visit and for lunch. I was so happy my parents love Radz so much and I can see she loves them back we had a great time. I was so proud of her and so happy that my family showed her so much love. I was treated the same why by her parents when I visited her in Davao.0



I don't know who was more nervous, me, when I visited my future in-laws, or Marie, when she my family. I know I was terrified, to be in a strange country, and not wanting mess it up. We all met at a Chinese Restaurant for dinner, and her Dad sat next me, squeezing my leg the whole time. I thought I was just lucky to make it out of the restaurant alive, and only a few thousand pesos lighter. I knew I was in good stead, later, when he hailed a cab for Marie and I to head back to the hotel.

Back in the states, my mom was the only one who said anything. The rest of the family accepted her right away, the nephews and nieces most readily. But my mom, "Well, I see you are taking good care of her," or "You seem to be doing a good job raising her." Was she hinting at the age difference?

Anyways, I am glad to hear you passed that hurdle!

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-19 20:48:00
PhilippinesEAD PROCESS
QUOTE (janessnroland @ Feb 2 2009, 02:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
having problems understanding the drivers license requirements. she arrived in september, married in december, went to get DL today, Feb 2.

North Carolina DMV....they are not sure that they can give her one. huh.gif .....so they copied all her documents and sent them to the mother ship in Raleigh, NC.

ANYONE know what's needed to get the drivers permit, or temp permit to drive?

One more governmental stall.

Our AOS paperwork sent about one week ago, so that is done as well..

Thanks
Roland

It will vary from state to state. If the state subscribes to the Real ID Act, the Driver's License/ID Card will be issued for the term of the document authorizing the alien to legally stay in the US. In your case, the EAD will be required, and the state ID will expire when the EAD expires. When you receive your conditional green card, then you can renew the state ID to expire when the green card expires, etc. California, and most states will copy the documents you provide them and submit them to the state legal department for verification with the DHS/USCIS. The verification can take up to two months. In the meantime, you may be issued a "non-verified" temporary Driver's License/ID Card.

--Bullwinkle
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-02-02 18:09:00
PhilippinesEmail the US Embassy here in Manila
QUOTE (adiiann @ Feb 1 2009, 08:35 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Hi Guys!

I have some few questions. I saw in some forum here that they got notification from the embassy through email. I want to get in touch too, through email. How can I do that? What email address I should use to directly communicate personnel handling case here in the embassy?

Thanks!

The email address that the USCIS will use is the one the you put on your I-129F or I-130. All fiancee/spouse cases will be processed in the Immigrant Visa Section. See the link to contact the embassy here:

Contact USEM

Most of your questions can be answerred here:

Immigrant Visa Information


Also, see the Manila Embassey Guide in the Pinned Threads at the top of the Philippine Forum

--Bullwinkle

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 02 February 2009 - 04:48 PM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-02-02 16:45:00
PhilippinesDeparting at Manila
QUOTE (PhiLandShiR @ Jan 31 2009, 07:20 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Good Morning Everyone,

I have heard about harassment at the airport from the airport security staff.

Mostly from those who travel alone but not if they are with someone. Like me for example... smile.gif

Does anyone have any stories they are willing to share?

Thanks!!



Phil




I am not sure if what I went through at the airport can be considered harrassment by the airport employees. There was a problem with my electronic ticket because my husband tried to hide his credit card number by shading that part in my photocopy of his credit card which is a requirement if you are using e-ticket together with a photocopy of his passport. The girl at the counter won't give me a boarding pass and she told me that they will not let me board the plane unless I have a photocopy of my husband's credit card with the account number clearly shown. It was an honest mistake from my husband since he was only trying to protect his credit card identity. But Philippine Airlines won't buy that excuse.

So I had to call him in the middle of the night and asked him to fax another copy of his credit card. He sent one of his billing statements instead. Alls well that ends well. But I won't forget that horrible experience at the PAL Terminal II. They finally let me board the plane after two hours waiting at the lobby and after overcharging me 100 pesos for my travel tax and finally, after bribing some airport employees in exchange for letting me use their phone and fax machine.

My husband called the Philippine Airlines to see if I was able to board the plane and they wouldn't tell him. So he showed up in San Francisco International Airport not knowing if I got on the plane or not. It took me two hours to get through the Customs and so, I'm glad he waited.

He even sent email addressed to PAL customer relations. They told him they will investigate, but never said anything more.

Rocky

P.S.
My husband got a letter from the credit card company a month later saying someone tried to make an unauthorized foreign transaction using his credit card and they issued him a new card.

Edited by Rocky_nBullwinkle, 31 January 2009 - 12:25 PM.

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-01-31 12:21:00
Philippinesjust new here
Welcome to our crazy, obnoxious family! good.gif

Rocky & Bullwinkle

P.S. Don't worry, we mean well! whistling.gif
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-02-02 22:17:00
Philippinessending card to us
QUOTE (xylide @ Feb 3 2009, 05:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
QUOTE (lostGurl18 @ Feb 4 2009, 09:25 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
takes a while it might take 14-21 business days to get here..if you pay mga PHP 700 fee gets here mga 5 business day .. innocent.gif wag na snail mail d pa insured yun pero u can try


Php700 lang?san yun?i was planning to send it through post office but priority mail..


QUOTE (Rocky_nBullwinkle @ Feb 4 2009, 09:36 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
There won't be any problems at all if you send stuff to the United States by the Philippine Post Office. Nobody's looking for money from the Philippines to the United States. laughing.gif I sent my husband a book, lots of birthday, christmas card and post cards. They all got to him pretty fast maybe two weeks the most.

Rocky


how much did u pay for it?was it priority mail?


I sent him the book, key chains, card and pictures ordinary mail and I paid 115 pesos in 2006. I don't know how much they charge now. I used a bubble envelope.

Rocky

Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-02-03 21:06:00
Philippinessending card to us
There won't be any problems at all if you send stuff to the United States by the Philippine Post Office. Nobody's looking for money from the Philippines to the United States. laughing.gif I sent my husband a book, lots of birthday, christmas card and post cards. They all got to him pretty fast maybe two weeks the most.

Rocky
Rocky_nBullwinkleFemalePhilippines2009-02-03 20:36:00