What Every Teenager Should Know Before Moving to the Philippines

Considering moving to a new country can be exciting, but understanding the realities of the local environment and lifestyle is crucial. For a 13-year-old, this move requires extra preparation and awareness of certain challenges and conveniences. Below, we explore what a teenager should know before moving to the Philippines.

Challenges in Everyday Life

1. Process and Difficulty: Everything in the Philippines tends to be more difficult and time-consuming. Simplicity, efficiency, and convenience that are often taken for granted can be hard to find. From ordering food to getting necessary services, the country's bureaucracy can make everyday tasks a tedious process.

2. Sanitation and Hygiene: The country is known for its lack of sanitary facilities. Approximately 90% of restrooms lack toilet paper, soap, or even proper functioning toilets. This can make personal hygiene a more challenging endeavor, increasing the risk of health issues.

3. Limited Infrastructure: Traffic and poor road conditions exacerbate the already difficult journey to any destination. Simple drives can turn into hour-long endurance tests, making daily travel impractical and often leading to increased stay-at-home activities.

Financial Considerations

4. Cash-Based Economy: Most services require cash payments, and foreign payment methods like Gcash are often off-limits to non-residents. ATMs are limited, and transactions over 150 peso (about 2.5 USD) can be cumbersome.

5. High Costs and Limited Benefits: Internet connectivity, electricity, and telecommunications are expensive. Internet speeds are slow, and regular power outages can hinder daily life. Registration for phone services is a tedious process that only lasts a few months, adding to the hassle.

Health and Safety Concerns

6. Health Hazards and Quality: Access to clean water is limited, and consuming unfiltered water is risky. The bewildering lack of health insurance and the high medical costs can add to the anxiety of living in a new country.

7. Environmental Factors: The climate is extreme, and the heat and humidity make many outdoor activities unfeasible. Combined with air pollution and frequent storms, the environment can be more of a deterrent than a benefit.

Cultural and Social Factors

8. Local Customs and Practices: Cultural norms and practices can be vastly different from what a teenager might be used to. The noise and constant activity, including the presence of stray animals, can also be overwhelming and disruptive.

9. Social Interactions and Safety: The country's infrastructure for services and safety can be lacking, with frequent power outages, unreliable transportation options, and noisy, crowded public spaces. Beggars and social pressures can also be more intense.

Conclusion

It is understandable to be apprehensive about moving to such a new and different environment. Comprehensive knowledge of the challenges and potential risks can prepare a teenager for what to expect. While the difficulties are real, understanding and preparing for them can make the transition smoother and more manageable.

The Philippines, with its unique cultural richness and warm community, can be a rewarding place to call home. However, being prepared is key to enjoying the country's many blessings without unnecessary stress.