wise

Hello! I'm Wise, a Filipina with a deep love for my country and a passion for sharing its beauty with the world. As a writer, blogger, and videographer, I capture the essence of the Philippines through my eyes, hoping to give foreign visitors a true taste of what makes these islands so special.

From the vibrant streets of Manila to the tranquil beaches of Palawan, my journey is about uncovering the hidden gems and everyday wonders that define the Filipino spirit. My articles and blogs are not just travel guides; they are invitations to explore, to feel, and to fall in love with the Philippines, just as I have.

Through my videos, I strive to bring the sights, sounds, and stories of my homeland to life. Whether it's the local cuisine, the colorful festivals, or the warm smiles of the people, I aim to prepare visitors for an authentic experience.

For those seeking more than just a vacation, the Philippines can be a place of discovery and, perhaps, even love. My goal is to be your guide, not just to the places you'll visit, but to the experiences and connections that await in this beautiful corner of the world. Welcome to the Philippines, through my eyes. Let's explore together!

View all posts

631 comments

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • A little slice of paradise! Very happy for you! Will be leaving for my 4th trip to the Philippines 🇵🇭 on 1/25/24 to visit my fiancée, very excited! 🙏🏻🥰

    • @@brandonandarlene yessir! we plan on retiring to Ormoc City in 8 years. get her visa application in asap, the process is long and frustrating 😡 … my fiancée’s visa is being delayed … she was supposed to be here in February, now we just don’t know 😔

    • Damn that sucks! We filed ours in OCT, hoping for no delays. Average timeline seems to be 12-15 months?@@itsmejsb

    • @@brandonandarlene ours took 12 months, we are fully approved, “case ready” status, but they cancelled our interview pending results of unnecessary medical tests. pray your fiancée does not get singled out additional tests as it will delay the visa for many months. it’s a scam! very unfair! millions of illegals have come into our country with no tests or vaccines etc 😡😡😡

    • yes brother specially in province the land and house was cheap compare to manila. however make sure you have to adapt chicken noise during 6am but for us it was free alarm clock..

  • My wife is from Leyte, Leyte. We are planing on moving there in September. We have a house in Ormoc City and a farm in Leyte, Leyte. We currently reside in Kent WA. I work in downtown Seattle. I think that makes us double neighbors, let’s have coffee some place some time.

  • Just arrived @ your channel,and Im really impressed by your property set up congrats well done indeed guys .

    • Ahhhh, TRUST is the name of the game, some folks you can, and some you cannot, sometimes of course we all have made a mistake….that’s LIFE!!!@@DManGrand

    • Well you only have a 50% chance of a marriage working out long term. No guarantees that he would get 50% of the house if they ever broke up. Not great odds for him.. She is the winner either way..@@brendandoherty2159

    • @@brendandoherty2159 Trust + a good prenup.
      Step 1. Form a corporation (60-40) in the Philippines with your wife/partner. Then you buy property in the name of the corporation. That is a way of having both names on the property title. Great protection for the foreigner.
      Step 2. A prenup. Without a prenup, the Filipina could get 50% of the assets, property, and money you held BEFORE the marriage in case of death or divorce. A prenup would also specify that there would be a 50-50 split of assets acquired during the marriage.

      I know it doesn’t sound very romantic But It’s your responsibility to protect your assets going into a marriage.

  • New subscriber here. Watching from NY and S. Leyte. Congratulations on your new home… Great looking build 👏🏻👏🏻

  • You must be American because of the windows :), look up German windows :P. I would never go without German windows unless of course there is no other option. But other than that really great place, love it.

  • What was the cost of land and house (separately)? We bought a 1000 sqm lot in Camotes for P2M. 150 meters from the paved highway, 2 lane unpaved road to the lot, 75 m from the ocean. We plan this year to build similar: small building for vacation living off to the side., CHB enclosure. If/when we sell in the future, the new owner can live in the smaller house til a main house is built. Then care taker/ gardener can reside in the smaller. Includes 50-60 banana trees.

    • @@captainrick971 under $40k for Camotes. Sorry I used $. Should be pesos. I will estimate my improvements between 25-25k dollars. My house will be basic 2 story outdoor kitchen and CR.

    • Yes USD. Its always hard to tell with prices in philly because there arent really any comps. But i thought it was at least a fair price. Were happy with it so its all good. Contgrats on your lot and house!@@philam1973

    • I couldn’t tell you but I do know its a natural filtration system and it works! For more information, check out “Project Akwaman Channel” is who we hired. He travels not only around Philippines but other countries providing clean water. Highly recommend. Thanks for watching Gary

    • @@brandonandarlene looked at the channel you recommended and I can not understand as it is in the local venacular. One more question about approximate cost of just the labor for such a project?

    • labor is usually 300-500 PHP per person each day depending on skill set. Well, that’s the local rates. Also, have to pay for lunch 🙂 @@garyharris4361

    • Yeah sorry about that. He does speak great English and travels around Philippines so if you need clean drinking water out of the well with natural filtration id get in contact with him. Took about two days, we had some sand in our water and it smelled. He is great! @@garyharris4361

  • New Subscriber here and how old it is viewing your blog on your new build and land its awesome, how long you staying back in USA b4 coming back to Philippines to start the main house cos that’s gonna be exciting seeing that being built for sure

    • I visit Arlene every 6 months. We wont be building the main house for about 3 years as Arlene will be coming to the states for a while. We will document it when we do though. Thanks for watching!

  • New sub here and I will be settling down in Ormoc here in a few months. Beautiful tiny house and property. I love Leyte.

  • Very nice property and tiny house/outside setup…

    Congrats and you have a new subscriber (me!)…

    Will run through your other vids as I have time…

    How much is your total investment to date for everything?

    Great start to life in The Philippines!

    Cheers!

    🙏🙏🙏
    👍😎👍

  • Hello Brandon we found your channel very nice to folow. I am Jack from the Netherlands me and my wife alos have a lot on Leyte we are going in march april again to the PH. Making the lot building ready. You are going to build over 3 years cool. Do a lot of reseach before. I give you a tip check out the channel of Olav his channels is called Cassa Seterbakken. We are going to build also like this methode. NO HOLLOW BLOCKS lol. maybe we can meet and talk about houses build on the PH with a beer. We see you working people did a nice job maybe we can hire them and give them a nice building job to they can make money. Its just a idea. We are in the Tanauan area. Regards Jack and Isabela. Say hello to your beautiful wife Arlene. You are a nice couple

    • hey jack, we are about 5 minutes from you near tabon… Isabela will know. Yeah I’ve seen The Armstrong family build without hollow block, very interesting. You plan on using Starken AAC? I’m back in the states now but we should keep in touch and plan a meet when were both in Leyte. Thanks for watching!

    • Yes sir, solar is a must eventually. Excited about that but it wont be till the bungalow is being built. Thanks for watching Brendan!

  • Congratulations on your property. My feeling on concrete walls though, from my experience, is that they while they make you feel protected, it like being ‘protected’ inside a prison. The beautiful views are also reduced. Maybe a steel fence or a high chain link fence will offer pretty well the same security while not closing you in as much.

    • I had similar ideas but local architectural engineers point out what the local weather and insects do to USA standard construction. High winds destroy anything not made of concrete too. Arguably a concrete dome would be best suited to survive the Philippines.

  • Brandon,are there anymore lots in that area I retired last year so Im going to have to sell all my stuff and my house.I do have a girlfriend in Zamboanga that I have met already thanks

    • Not that I’m aware of, all word of mouth or by seeing a sign as you drive from my experience. Hard to find compared to west. Thanks for watching Edwin!

  • New Subscriber… Very interested in your journey.. My GF is from just south of Ormoc and we are thinking of doing something similar in the mountains with a view.

  • Nice place, very peaceful love it po! New follower here (3,76K) 🎉 more blessings / subs to come lovely couple keep up the good work more content to share! Mabuhay ❤

  • Smart move Just make do first Its so cosy.
    Do slowly not like others getting into debts n not good for marriage Both happy is more important

  • You bought her a house and lot. I’m sure that you know the laws in the Philippines. Take her to the USA and you may never see that place again. You’re still young so you’ll have time to recover financially from it. Not trying to crap on your video but this is from personal experience and observations of other expats that have gone down this path. Wishing you good luck 👍🏻

  • Your new house is very beautiful and excellent bro. I have not seen a new model house like this until 2024. A lot of money seems to have been spent. 6×9 size with bamboo bongs is very nice for lunch and dinner. I am very happy. In my life too, I should build it in the model of your house. I saw your video from Telangana State Hyderabad in India. Great video your new home. My best wishes to your family. Thanks brother.

  • Nice location..its really a peaceful place!👍🇧🇭🇵🇭
    Wow! That small house is really beautiful! Good job!. I wouldcsuggest to plant more fruit bearing trees, like mango, jackfruit etc..! It will serve as well as a shade later on!

  • beautiful small 🏠 and paradise property ❤❤ my husband is retiring we planned to back in the Philippines i miss my hometown romblon Philippines ❤❤

    • @@brandonandarlenewhen I build this tiny house it will belong to my fiancé. Doesn’t matter if she is in the Philippines 🇵🇭 or America 🇺🇸 lol

    • Right! I always find the whole land thing funny. Its as if western guys in America married to American women actually own the house and land as well. Don’t pay that property tax or interest to the bank and you’ll find out real quick who owns that house and lot in the west…and I didn’t even bring up divorce yet 🙂

    • @@brandonandarlene definitely better for your family to own the home than the American government,,specially today. And at around 25% of the cost for a better built home

  • Awesome brother. Good plan and good location. We have a two story home right outside of Vigan City illoco Norte on the northern part of the Philippines 🇵🇭. Trying to study your accent 🤔 were in California but I’m from the Midwest and spent 20 years in the USVI. 🇵🇷

  • Congratulations on your new place! Looks great! Its nice of you to build her family a beautiful home…. im sure they will cherish it. Sounds like you have gone all in. I wish you the best and HOPE its a happy ending for you. Look for red flags.good luck buddy!

  • Places like the Philippines is the real “American Dream” where one can get rich slowly as well as enjoy peace without having the Government continuously reaching into your pockets and telling you how to live your life and what you can and cannot do with your property.

  • First time viewer, Like the Vlog and what a cute little house and you seem like wonderfull people. Im gonna check out some more of your videos now 🙂

  • Can you replanted those banana plants ,,,somewhere else in your property? That way,, you could still enjoy them instead of destroying them when you will start your construction?

    • I’m not sure, if we can we will,. Arlene will know more about that than myself. Thanks for watching!

  • Don’t bring her to the U.S.A. She is going to be corrupted by the leftist-feminist-chickenheads! Much love, health and happiness to you and your family. I am Leyte bound in twelve years!

    • Not for the guest house. That will be in the bungalow on the front lot eventually, Thanks for watching!

  • I suggest you should put up an thick steel fence to the window and door inside your house for your safety and protection.

    • To my knowledge I’ve never seen foreigners getting robbed by a break in but is it a common occurrence for break ins without a fence/wall?

  • Looks good guys congrats 🎊🎉 that’s my next move after I get into my condo with my fiancé end of the year in Cebu! She’s also from Leyte, Leyte and I was just there last month and it was a blast!!

  • Great job I’m building a house for my fiancé this year in Bulacan, I can’t believe that’s all it cost you to build that house very smart well done brother

  • I used same windows and had them changed after months as a night time if you have lights on you can see inside crystal clear but not out at all if you have a light on inside get aftermarket tint on bathroom window or your balls will be on display for any bush creeper lmao

    • Yeah i didn’t realize that till after the install haha. We got blinds up now in the living area but not in the shower. Balls on display!

  • That’s really a cute little place you built there! I like your bathroom. I was only wondering where you cook, as I didn’t see a kitchen.

    • Well its just a guest house. We do have power in the hut so for now we use hot plate and cook inside the hut until we move in a few years and complete the bungalow on the front lot. Thanks for watching!

  • Dude American or foreigners can never legally own land in the Philippines buy a condominium foreigners can own a condominium but not land you we’re tricked she can divorce you tomorrow and you have nothing.

  • Wow fresh air sorround w/ a greenish diff plants ,,. After my retirement I stay also in my province …. Currently n UK 🇬🇧

  • Congratulations! I just made the permanent move to Cambodia after I graduated in December. I applied at all the schools and have been on the lookout for a good woman to start a family with. Life is great in paradise!

    • @@brandonandarlene If I was you, I would just live in that apartment permanently, because it is so nice, but it probably won’t be big enough, once the babies start coming . 😉

    • Correct, if it was just us we could easily do it! The bungalow will be similar style just slightly bigger to add bedrooms and kitchen@@mylifethaidiy7045

    • Your tiny house is great BUT you should have a large (raised) roof off of one side of it with outside kitchen, seating areas, Hammock, tool shed, etc. for working in things, lounging, cooking, etc. etc. cuz in the tropics you do lots of things outside instead of inside because it gets too hot inside and cooling a large area is expensive! Outside you have good ventilation and fans!@@brandonandarlene

  • Just saw this channel. One thing in the farm land the humidity much higher and mosquitos. I can see your old ladies nipples (you need to explain the american slang if she reads this comment), its humid lol. Good looking area just hopefully people dont build up the area with a bunch of shacks if you guys build the bungalow. No matter how you slice it, still local comps.

    Lastly if this was permitted, no way in hell you can build this including the lot for this price.

    • That’s dipping sauce from lunch LMFAO.

      The guest house was 15.9k and the lot was 12k USD. Thanks for watching!

  • What’s up Bro, from Seattle! I’m Brannon and my Filipina wife is Elaine! I’m 41 years old she is 40. We met here in Seattle at work over 18 years ago. I’ve been to the Philippines 20 times, just got back 2 weeks ago we enjoyed Christmas and new years there in Cagayan De Oro City. I work 2 full time jobs almost 100 hours a week for 5 years as We built our house there, we are almost done building our 5 story Beach Hotel, that opens next year! We will move there next year finally! I had to build an Empire first to move at a younger age. Love your story! Happy for you guys! You’re doing it right! Hope to welcome you guys later at OHANA BEACH SUITES!

    • Awesome story and good luck with your Suites. Keep us updated hopefully we can make the trip to visit one day. Thanks for watching!

    • @@brandonandarlene Heck yeah bro, It’s like looking into a mirror with you both! Sounds good! Drinks on me at our rooftop bar for sure! Have fun I’m jealous right now, but that’s a good thing so I stay motivated here in Seattle!

  • I’d love to know your monthly expenses! I’m going to move to the Philippines in 3-5 years. I can’t wait!

    • I don’t live in Philippines full time so I wouldn’t be the one to ask yet. When we do move there eventually I will do monthly cost breakdowns as its important info IMO for us foreigner’s with dream of moving overseas. Check out Cory from “Its me” channel, he did a great cost of living breakdown of the Philippines

    • @@brandonandarlene I watch It’s Me. I Love them both! Such an Inspiration to me! 🎉 They are Adorable together!

  • Nice house and property. What are your next plan on the vacant lot? Love to see some farming, chicken coops stuff there.

    • Bungalow house on the front lot and guesthouse on the back lot. We will do some farming as well. Thanks for watching!

  • Just came across your channel now. We’re a young couple he’s from the U.S. we’re settling in Leyte too.

  • Does anybody know which part of Leyte don’t get as much flood? I thought about tiny houses here in the US, but the zoning/permit laws here in nearly all states are atrocious. I really want a house in the Philippines since I was born there. I remember going to Bohol and renting a house there. I miss the weather and the sounds of the nature, sari manoks, insects, and other animals there.

  • That’s a nice countryside in province..nice spot where everything is green! So, may I ask how much is that house built for bottom fine line estimate..labor/lot and materials ? I’m planning go back home (i’m here u.s.) build a home as same square footage as that… but with 2nd floor with terrace on top of that.. 2nd would be master bedroom with balcony over a carport.

    • The land is 12K and the guest house was 15.9k all USD including everything from labor to the TV. Thanks for watching

  • Getting ready to learn life scam lesson . Brag today be crying years later .Brag all you can do may be the tears won’t be do lathe .

    • My fiancée wasn’t born yesterday you might have been experienced being scammed but don’t generalized and give some respect we don’t know each other sir! Thanks for watching though it help us!~

    • Let us know if there is anything we can do to help you brother? I know you got a lot of pain and suffering going on, let us help. Good luck, and thanks for watching!

  • This is only something that should be considered with your wife and a good prenuptial agreement. If you’re thinking about doing this with your girlfriend, then you’re an idiot and could possibly be losing a lot of money. Foreign people can’t own property in the philippines, so it will be in your wife’s name, and the house can be in your name. Unless it is on wheels, then you will probably lose your investment, and this is why so many expats choose to just rent. Remember that if you spend 2 to 3 million or more pesos on a house and lot, then that will less money that you will have to travel and enjoy your retirement. Now, if you plan on going to the other side of the planet to sit inside of a box, then why even leave where you are at. When you not only build a house for your wife but her family also then you are really not thinking straight so be smart and practical so you can truly enjoy your life in the philippines and not become the welfare department.

    • Hello Gail (Internet Police Captain),
      Do you really think I didn’t do any research on the laws of the Philippines before purchasing all this? Yes, I talked with lawyers and everything else we are fully aware I don’t own the land. You mention 2-3 million PHP will be less money on travel so renting is better….your assuming everyone that comes to the Philippines are broke living paycheck to paycheck and have little to no capital/investments and savings. It’s not like that bro, why do you feel the need to pocket watch? Lastly, we are not building a house for her family and no they have never asked me for a dollar either. Not everyone is the same man, you cant assume just because you heard some BS on the YT.

    • “Foreign people can’t own property in the Philippines”

      People always say that which is not true. Gail, did you know that Foreigners can own land in the Philippines via a will if the wife passes away? The foreigner can then take over the land 100% in his name 🙂

  • Nice place m8
    Im from uk Ive just bought land
    Sea front plot in southern leyte
    About to start a 3 bedroom bungalow
    And defo a big shower room
    Good luck on your future build 👍

  • It would be nice to beautify that place. With so many Pilipinos getting married to foreigners,in my mind..many Pilipiino facial features will not look like exotic like Malayans anymore. But here’s hoping that our Pilipino culture to the future generations will still remain intact and would not change like being respectful to everybody,kind-always ready to extend help to anybody/strangers without reservations or questions,l oving,resilient, humble and most of all..will keep their belief and faith to God.

  • Very nice thanks for sharing. Me and my wife know some missionaries tha live in south eastern Samar and they do go to tacloban for thier big shopping trips. Might see you some day there.

  • Hi guys, awesome project! Exactly what my wife and me are planning as well. We have a piece of land in Southern Leyte. Would like to build the same tiny house on it. Did you guys roll up the sleeves yourself, or did the hired people do it? Can you give me contact?

    • Arlenes family built the guest house. We did hire a few helping hands and painter though. Thanks for watching!

    • YOu can fins anybody to do the work as most men will tell you they are skilled, yet not. Even if you get a engineer, or contractor, the work in………well lets be kind and say would not pass US Code for sure. I know this as we have a house in Leyte2 and it will drive you mad watching the work and way its put together… SO anyways, you can find workers everywhere. 9 dollars a day for worker and 10-12 USD a day for the forman. Yes that correct

  • Nice work guys! Judging by what you said about it being an office/guest room in the future, I assume you’re going to build a full size house on that front lot? Also, big question… can you see inside those 1 way windows at night? I’ve seen other people use the reflective windows, but being dark outside with lights on inside, you could see right through them. Asking for our future build 😂. Thanks!

    • Yes, bungalow on the front. Also, you can see in the windows at night. We do have blinds up and decorations now so its not an issue. No regrets love the windows.

    • @brandonandarlene  nice. Thanks for the info! I’m sure we’ll still get the same type of windows, but that’s a bummer they don’t work at night. Guess we’ll be investing in curtains too 🤣

  • The place you bought is very nice, the natural space and fruits. It is to make a small town with few neighbors.
    They did not say the cost in American currency on the land, it would be interesting. Thanks.

  • Guest House: 15,900 USD
    650 sqm Lot: 12,000 USD

    The only dating website we would recommend to avoid scams and fake accounts – https://www.christianfilipina.com/?affid=1746
    ____________________________________________

    REMITLY – Pay Zero fees + Get a special exchange rate and $20 OFF first transfer of $100 or more – https://remit.ly/110l08vr
    ____________________________________________

    Safety Wing Travel Insurance – I’ve used Safety Wing Travel Insurance on all my trips to the Philippines. Fast, easy, cheap & reliable coverage. https://bit.ly/BrandonandArlene
    ____________________________________________

    Chase Business Credit Card – My first flight to Asia was free by using Chase Unlimited Rewards Points. Earn 100,000 bonus points with the Ink Business Preferred® card or up to $1,000 bonus cash back with the Ink Business Premier® card – https://www.referyourchasecard.com/21j/XYX5YN6ITT
    ____________________________________________

    Cjarles Schwab Investor Savings Debit Card – No Foreign Transaction fees + Unlimited Refund on ALL ATM Fees. This is by far the best Debit card for International travel. Most ATM’s in Asia charge $5 or more. Get your money Back!
    https://www.schwab.com/client-referral?refrid=REFERQAG48D92
    ____________________________________________

    Music By Epidemic Sound – https://share.epidemicsound.com/hxt6oe
    ____________________________________________

    AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: All links are products or services we personally use. Some of the links on this channel are affiliate links, meaning, at NO additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase and/or subscribe.

    • Yeah, that’s possible but who knows for sure. I like making deals with Charlie Mungers advice in mind. If the buyer and seller will be willing to switch places and still make the deal, do it! If i overpaid so be it, were happy with it 🙂 Thanks for watching! @@macolet9711

    • @@brandonandarlene yup. Anyway, its your money. As long as you’re happy then it’s good and you cant do anything about it. It’s a done deal.

  • Good job man.. I’m thinking about doing the same thing here in Cebu. Take care and be safe. Do you play ball, down for some 3 on 3 ? Come to Lapu Lapu sometime for a pick up game with me and another American named Gunny.. ( Marine ). You have a good channel.

    • I do love sports and play basketball but that is the worst sport for me. Im left handed in everything else but play ball basketball right handed (odd).

  • looks great for a small house what land cost u there 1500 a sqm u in the middle the jungle no bars u windows even u in the province u still have to be careful get some cctv up is a good start when u go out my mate lives dipolog city now 8 years loves it wont be back here because he cannot afford a house the western world another one in thailand now 9 years same thing but philippines ok but live fulltime not for me as eventually u need money to survive as bills come a lot specially electricity there unless u have a lot money but u home nice enough for 2 of you also has many rules building now in philippines we gone thru the lot

  • very nice property and house…..cheap…..how much do you think the permanent house will cost?….and how big?

    • Not sure. My guess was if we wanted to add two beds and a modern kitchen on the guest house it would have cost 5K – 7.5K USD max but that wasn’t what we wanted on the back lot. It will be interesting and we will do weekly vids in a few years when we build it out.

  • This is GREAT!!! Im definitely going to look into this in Pangasinan. The only thing im gonna do differently is pour a slab big enough to build my entire house but have this part just for my master bedroom. THANKS GUYS!!!😊

    • What part of Pangasinan are you in? I will be visiting Umingan again next year for vacation with my fiancé. My fiancé already has land we want to build a small home just like this one too.

    • @@Ron-oe7hg I have visited Urdaneta I think that’s only 15 or 20 minutes from Umingan. I can’t wait to visit Baguio again

    • @@breakdownbill1 Baguio great. My niece goes to school there so we spent a few days with her. The native dance there is a must see. The weather was a little something to get used to tho.

  • look at that scenic nature around you. why bother to build a concrete wall around that? what a waste of beautiful view.

    • Still undecided on the height because of course we want the views. But at the same time we do need some cement to help keeps the snakes out. Thanks for watching!

  • I really like the house, my finance also lives in Leyte. I visited last Jan., and we also discussed that if the K1 visa is going to take over 2yrs. (currently at 1.3yrs) that maybe stay in the PH, but we didn’t think about Leyte, but after seeing the tiny house I might reconsider her home in Leyte.

    • Does it really take two year? What stage are you on now? Based off what I seen from others with timelines, seems like 15 months till completion.

  • I married a Leyte girl too. Just got her to the US 4 months ago after 3 years. We married just before Covid hit. Planning on retiring there one day. Love the house.

    • sorry sir, cant be specific. Although most viewers on yt are great, some arent. For this reason, we keep it basic. Hope you understand. Thanks for watching!

    • @@brandonandarlene its fine, I’m just interested to know what city. not asking the exact location. you could have just say, its part of Palo, Tulsa, Dagami etc. I grow up in Tacloban, right where Leyeco around that neighborhood in Real Street. Just looking for a lot to buy and the lot you guys have are cheap, most I found and asked the price are in million price. Thanks anyway for the replied.

    • Interesting, many comments have said I overpaid. Glad to know that someone who knows the area finds it cheap…anyways around Tanauan 🙂

  • Nice place my friend.
    Will be ok, until you build the main house.
    Perfect size for single person, or couple.
    I did not notice kitchen area ?
    Maybe dirty kitchen, I did not notice.

    • They make meals with a hot plate and rice cooker at the Nipa Hut. The same way I make meals when I go camping

    • We got a little hot pot and rice cooker in the hut, Its simple and works for now. Thanks for watching!

  • just remmeber the title/property will only be on your wife’s name…hope you add your name in the contact somewhere.

    • Nope, not needed for this purpose. Hot pot and rice cooker in hut is good enough for now till the bungalow is up. Thanks for watching

  • Hello🐴🐎🐴,🐕🐶🐕 May I share an Old Testament Verse with you from Daniel 7:14 “And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a Kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should SERVE Him; his dominion is an Everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom shall not pass away, and His Kingdom that which shall not be destroyed.” Also, can I share Isaiah 53:5 ” But HE was WOUNDED For our TRANSGRESSIONS, he was BRUISED for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His STRIPES we are HEALED.”
    God the Father loves you so much that He sent Holy Sinless Jesus (His Holy Son) to earth to be born of a virgin.Then, to grow up and die on a cross for our sins. He was in the tomb for 3 days, then Father God raised Holy and Sinless Jesus Christ (Y’shua) to Life! He appeared to people and went back to Heaven. We must receive Sinless Jesus sincerely to be God’s child(John 1:12).After we get saved by grace through faith in Christ, if we truly love the Lord Jesus Christ, then we will obey Jesus(John 14:15). Mark 1:15 “And saying, the time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: Repent ye, and believe the gospel.” Jesus said in John 14:15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments. “There’s a real hell. It says in Revelation 21:8 “But for the cowardly, & unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, & immoral persons sorcerers & idolaters & all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire & brimstone…” Please sincerely receive Holy Jesus and put your true faith & trust in Him today and please repent. Will you have a Real encounter with Holy Lord Jesus (Y’shua is His Hebrew Name) and stay in a Genuine relationship with Him daily please?

  • Wow its a nice design and liveable for you and Arlene.Love the surrounding areas,peaceful and quite,water and electricity is a plus.Its a smart idea building a house for you to stay while on vacation than to stay in a hotel or rent.This is perfect place to retire,close to nature.Best wishes to both of you.

  • When Arlene is talking about something like the outdoor hut PUT A MIKE on her. Couldn’t hear a word she said. If BOTH of you will speaking in your videos buy 2 mics.

  • Correct me if I’m wrong, but foreigners can’t own land in the Philippines. They can only own structures on the land?

    • That is correct. Unless you have a WILL in Philippines which states you will take over property if filipina passes before yourself then the lot/house/title can be 100% in foreigners name. That is the only situation which a foreigner can own land legally in philippines. Thanks for watching!

    • @@brandonandarlene thanks for the response. I recently discovered your channel and am enjoying your content.

  • Very nice! No curtains/ drapes yet. Very low cost!!! You have a well a presume? Your girlfriend is quite nice. Is that a solar roof?

    • We got pull down blinds now. Yes, we got well. Solar will go up when we build the bungalow. Thanks for watching!

  • Look great not saying it’s going to happen but at any point she gets mad at you you will be kicked out of the house and property since you don’t own it, she does.

    • Don’t worry I’m not that greedy sir if that happen We’ll sell all of the property! I already told him about it I won’t take any. 😊

    • @COYO-T  yeah unfortunately that’s what happened to them they got scammed they should’ve been wiser for picking a filipina, and how they spend their money, well it happens to all countries so not all filipina will scam you sir.

    • If somebody spends all there money on a house in philippines and becomes homeless they are fools. Im sorry, but that is nobodys fault but there own. If you cant afford to build then rent. Its simple.

  • Province in leyte still you can buy a big Lot inside the baranggay there is a Lot cheaper than the city also has beaches, but leyte is still need to develop but one Day leyte will develop soon. I love my hometown in leyte, but im living in cebu.

  • put banaba tree in front of the property its very beautiful during flowering season and it is a philippine native tree.

  • Congratulations to both of you!. I like your land and it’s a good space you can plant some fruit trees ,vegetables,flowers,herbs, So happy for you guys!, I can’t to go back home!! God bless you both!!🙏🙏🙏..

  • Nice job brother… Hey, we kive in Leyte – Leyte as well, Brgy Salog.. Have a small house just lke youres. What area of Leyte are you or what Brgy? Hopefully you dont have Boom Boom music all the time but plenty of rooster, lol we have that too. Anyways, nice place brother. Hows your internet? Streaming good? Lote to inform you if you are new to the philippines and that area. You still working? or retired.. Im Retired Military. Take care brother

    • Hey whats up! Were about 30 minutes from Tacloban. No music, and lots of roosters as well lol. Internet is great, we have no issues streaming or anything. Still working, I’m 36 🙂 Thanks for watching!

    • @@brandonandarlene good stuff brother.. we actually have a small home just like yours… It’s in Leyte2… Her sister lives near TAC… Glad you found a Peaceful place.. Roosters are fine.. it’s the boom boom from the Brgy that drives us cRaZy.. lol.. we also own land in Ormoc out by the airport.. Leyte is pretty chill and not tons of guys like us, which is great lol. The island needs better medical though.. other than medical, we pretty much enjoy each day.
      In 60 and wife is 33.. keep living your dream brother

  • Congratulations to you both neighbors. We started our Leyte property 20 years ago and it’s our getaway from Metro Manila. We are in Culasian Leyte and have 1200 square meters with our house that we escape to when we get tired of the big city. The bungalow turned out really nice and our best wishes for your journey together.

  • Congratulations on a superb temporary house, it’s very well built, I’ll be having a house built in Cebu in a year or two, does your builder travel to build? Can I have his details please? Thanks good luck 😊

    • They don’t travel, mostly built by her family. We did outsource the paint job and a guy for clean water but that’s it. Thanks for watching!

  • We migrated in Canada year 2014 but my husband and I wants to retire in the Philippines. It is always my dream to have a big lot and small house because I want to plant vegetable. We don’t want to live in the city anymore.
    I love your property, I wish someday I can buy something like that.

  • I think Small House is Perfect and Practical.. A lot of Expat Regret Big Houses end up Selling Later…Be Careful with the Rip Off Sure Dollars expand in the Phils. But They Raised Prizes Crazy Like in the US Especially for Foreigners think they are Rich

  • Congrats! What part of Leyte are you located? My GF of 3yrs lives near Abuyog. I’m going back in August. How difficult was it to file/record your property purchase with the government? I heard it’s complicated with alot of leg work. Did you hire a real estate expert to help verify clear ownership & property boundaries? Thanks.

    • Were 30 minutes from tacloban. Paperwork is always long and challenging here but with time can get it done. No agent but we did use lawyer. Thanks for watching and good luck!

  • I love your house. You were wise to have a wide overhang. Not only does it protect the siding, but it shades the house a bit. Excellent job, and worth every penny. And Brandon, you lucky guy! You picked one beautiful Filipina. Please look after her well! Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors.

  • 🇺🇸Interesting 🤔 my fren in West Arizona owns Property there, imma tell her she should either develop it or set it to lease . . ..she, may have her own income . . . .👍🇺🇸

    • You’re vEry Welcome, Yes in in 🏜️Arizona🇺🇸 and my fren is older, terribly hot Summers here now, 110°-118°f and I watch this YouTube, many my frenz don’t I’ll share this, your video to them. USA is in turmoil, Politically & every Big City due to Fentanyl & immigration, Biden’s fault! And now everything in Holy Bible prophesy true, so Phillipines may be right for some cost is 👍☀️and decent . . .🌎 we’ll see . . ..thank you both to show Phillipinos here, there❤️💖👍☀️🌎

    • @@brandonandarlene okay, thanks for the explanation, so do you live in that space at the moment, if so, where do you cook your meals?.

    • Yeah, we just use it for now as a studio until we decide to build on the front lot. Arlene will be coming to the US for a few years before we move full time. For now, we cook in the hut. We have hot plate and rice cooker, its simple but it will work until the bungalow goes up on the front lot.

    • @@brandonandarlene Thank you for the quick response, I am very happy for both of you and more grease to your elbow.

    • We have two water pumps. One from the well to the water tank, then another pump after our filtration system which pumps into the shower. Thanks for watching!

  • Nice pad! My wife and I just bought a new condo on presale in Cebu wheres she’s from. We plan on building house on her family’s property in Cebu. As a Californian I can’t stand the wet bathrooms. That’s one thing I won’t put in when building our house lol.

    • Yeah, not a fan of wet bathrooms either. Also, does your filipina also soak the toilet? Arlene will wash the toilet as if it was on fire LOL, then i go to sit on it and get soaked. Its more fun in the Philippines 🙂

    • @@brandonandarlene my wife does that when she’s back at the family’s houses when going back to visit. We don’t do that here back here in the states. Nothing like sitting on a wet toilet and floor going #2. 😆

    • ​@brandonandarlene HAHAHAHA! Sorry guys just want to make sure it’s clean😂 I wipe it though before I seat! Jowa just don’t want to wipe it every time he use it, I understand because it’s annoying you have to do it few times in a day🤣

    • So we have two water pumps. One goes from the well to the water tank. The other goes from the filtration system into the guest house bathroom. The cost for the pumps isn’t much, we got them from Wilcon. I don’t remember exactly, maybe a few hundred USD. Thanks for watching Brian!

  • If land and maybe house is in her name then you have made a classic mistake that expats do in SE Asia.

  • Wrong!, you bought her land and built a new house. Foreigners can not own land in the Philippines, even to bury your dead body. She can kick you out anytime, and keeps everything. 😂😅😂

    • I embrace all life challenges, not worried about it. BTW, foreigners can own land in the Philippines via a WILL if the Filipina passes away before the foreigner…title then is 100% in foreigners name. So to say foreigners cannot own land is not factually true 🙂 Thanks for watching!

  • I just recently subscribed, you are doing great job on your video production. I am wishing you both an awesome future on your journey. I am looking forward to watching your journey

  • Inside the shower the power plug for the water heater is on the wall do you want to be electricuted ?

  • You should buy a microphone so the other person can clip on her clothes and talk too. For the next house, you should choose a white roof. I live in Florida and nobody would go for a dark roof because it makes the house very HOT, the light roof reflects the sun so it keeps the house cool.

    • We actually planned on the white roof but they were out of stock at all locations locally. Thanks for watching!

    • Yes , much more safe than where I live in Seattle Washington USA. Not even close. Thanks for watching!

    • No kitchen its a office/ guest house. Kitchen will be in the bungalow on the front lot eventually. Thanks for watching!

  • Flipino fishermen have to go out into the deep sea and catch several tons of fish with trawls and real big fishing boats. just like foreigners do. in the deep ocean.

  • You do understand its her house and land you own nothing when it all goes wrong you will just end up having to walk away I assume you already know this

    • Not entirely true. Foreigners can inherent land per Section 7 article Xll in constitution just not buy directly. So they can indeed own land in the Philippines Thanks for watching.

  • Listen you need to make a drainage system for the water to not come into your house when it rains my friend that’s the one and only problem that you have besides that your good to go remember it can rain there consistently for up to 4 or more days without stopping so if I were you I would start working on that rain drainage system around your house

    • Yes, its on the list to do. Curious, so you know the cost of doing something like that to both our lots?

  • Nice property you have there. Just along the road plus no neighbors yet around the area. It makes the area serene and beautiful

    • Like Arlene said, its fiber 50mbps which is plenty fast for what we do. I’m happy it works so well, I was expecting to use Starlink. The cost of Starlink is like $800 to have the thing delivered then 100USD per month. Ours is $30 usd per month no installation fee. Much better deal and works great. Thanks for watching!

  • You better install blackout curtains for your windows or you will have a free show for your neighbours every night 🤣. It is also common for the people in the Philippines province to peep their neighbours.

    • but at night if the lights are on it is possible to see inside. I didnt know that till afterwards haha. But we have no regrets, love the windows.

    • Yeah we have pull down curtains now along with some decorations. We made the video before we put them up. Perhaps a few locals got a good view for a few days though 🙂 Thanks for watching!

  • I chanced upon your channel n after watching decided to follow. Like the lot and little house. Very practical & functional. Love from Malaysia😄

  • Your channel came to me as I sub to Becoming philippino. He is from my area in Canada. So great to see what you are doing. I’ve not been to the Philippines but have met friendly folks who moved here. Don’t know how they manage the cold in Canada. Lol.

  • This vlog: we bought land and a house. Next vlog: My Philippina took my house and land and left me with nothing 😭 🤣🤣.

  • Watching here from Philadelphia, PA. I just discovered your video by accident, yes I subscribed. I LOVE YOUR STORY ❤❤. Great house and “big western bathroom” I wish you two luck and happiness! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

  • Congratulations, to your fiancée and you of cause. I really like your planing to build a property before anything else. I am planing such like you builder the only difference is I am planing to build nearly everything by myself, I am a carpenter. Now I am retired and my gf is waiting for me and my little daughter since 4.5 years. We would love to visit you some day because we will live way up Luzon in the very northern part. LR Jens

  • Really nice tiny house ..so your lot area is 650 sqm in total? I have 5,000 sqm farm that i bought in the Philippines but i have no idea how big it is since I’m living in California. My bf is taking care of it.. i also bought a 750 sqm beach ⛱️ lot with white sand but i have no idea how big it is .nice to see you have a tiny home and a gazebo… ❤ I like the interior as well.

  • I don’t see living my life there so far from the city the reality of life what can I do there all day run around the house everyday I’ll go crazy I like the city with a lot things to do good restaurants mall shopping places living in the woods where there is nobody there but you friends will not go there it’s damn to far but if their happy there their happy not me I’ll get old living like that to quick

  • Better fence with mahogany trees/indian trees every meter instead of a wall. You can start a nursery and seedlings will be growing and then plant.
    Anyway we all do it different…

  • Awesome information Brandon and Arlene. I’m In the market of doing what your doing tiny homes 🏡 are a hit in the Philippines 🇵🇭.

    • Yes, you missed its a guest house. The kitchen will be in the bungalow on the front lot but we aren’t building it for a few years so we are using this tiny place as our studio for now on trips and eating in the hut with hot plate.

    • Scottie boy! Yeah, this would be perfect for you. It wouldn’t have cost much more to make it a little bigger with a bedroom and modern kitchen. We will build out the bungalow on the front lot in a few years once we return to philly for good. Thanks for watching and good luck on your adventures!

  • The only problem with one way windows…. when night falls, and you turn on the light inside, anyone can see in your house.

  • wowwww beautiful office/guest house amazing idea / amazing job! looks Lovely , Comfy, & HOmey ! 🥰❤🙏😁👍Congrats!!!

  • 1:00 – I think it’s strange the Filipino people print words on shirts backwards. I would never buy a shirt like that. 😮😮😮…😉😉😉…🤣🤣🤣

    • LOL its just because of the camera setup/angle, later in the vid you can see its printed correctly 🙂

    • @@brandonandarlene I’m aware of why this happens. I just wanted add some humor by regressing back to my 5th grade “class clown” status. I also considered adding “They must have heard my feedback because the lettering is correct now” and when you had a mirror shot, “wait, it’s backwards again.” Then the shower shot…“Now it’s right. These Filipinos can’t make up their minds.”

    • Yeah, also sometimes when I drive I get comments on why the wheel is on the wrong side LOL. Thanks for watching William!

    • We were using front camera in the beginning it captures mirror reflection and in the shower we use the back camera Since I need to take a video of him. Lol hopefully you make up your mind with this info.

  • Nice and Easy, I only question Flooding, Leyte Known for weather, Built a Bomb Shelter, Make sure you have disaster plan in Place, God Bless

  • Nice view I will earn more money I will try to buy in province I’m working in Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦🇸🇦🇸🇦 ❤❤❤👍👍👍

  • Nice guest house and lot you have there Brandon.

    What material did you use in your shower/bathroom floor? I like it especially its color grey. I’m your new subscriber and follower by the way.

    • Everything in the bathroom was purchased at Wilcon. The bathroom wall is just tile. The floor is rubberized paint, the tile we used didn’t work out on the floor so we painted over it. Thanks for watching!

    • @@brandonandarlene that was a nice floor job, it’s seamless. I did not see any tile gap when painted. May I know what brand of rubberized paint did you used. Thank you!

    • Originally the floor was the mat black color you can see from the two tone tile on the side of shower. Unfortunately, that tile shows water marks and dirt like crazy so we had to make a change. We used rubberized paint called Davies Acreex from Citi Hardware…Wilcon was out of stock. Anyways, put it on thick and don’t use a roller. Has to be hand painted but once dried looks and feels great!

  • Very nice. Here in the land of the free (In the US) I wish our governments would relax zoning an building codes to give homeowners more control and freedom. But also embrace newer more innovative ways to collect, save and treat water and wastewater. Maybe that will help address our homeless/housing crisis and motivate people to move out of overpopulated cities.

    • We don’t have a homeless issue in the US, we have a drug issue mainly caused by our very own Dr’s and big pharma. Check out Soft white underbelly on YT, its crazy. Just my opinion, thanks for watching!

    • Hey, I follow that channel, its valuable service to see that reality and the risk. what happened to those 3 regular guys in Kansas city is alarming. You have to fear the stuff.

    • And yeah healthcare in the US is crooked AF, but so is our Government tbh, The US supplies Mexican cartels all the guns they need to run the illegal drug labs that keep US drug demand high.

  • I don’t normally comment, but the property is beautiful, the house is great and cozy… and your fiance is lovely. I wish, both of you, all the best!

    • For now in the hut with hot pot and rice cooker until the bungalow in finished. We dont live here full time 🙂

  • Hi just like to ask you, is the house in both names? Can foreigner own land or house?? Cos in Thailand a foreigner can’t own land in their name,

  • Arlene has a wonderful family, a simple family. they are happy when they are together, they help each other and are there for each other in hard times..how can you not love them? you two have a family and a new home..i wish you to be happy together.

  • I’m actually trying to do the same shit. Tiny home, and because of my job / music career I have an opportunity to leave the U.S with a good amount and buy a place.

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
Christian Filipina

July 2024 | @Wise

Miss Filipina Beauty Miss Filipina Beauty
Book Your Flight
Things to do in the Philippines
Book Your Hotel
Book Your Adventure
Book Your Travel Insurance
Your Adventure Gear
Record Your Adventure
Christian Filipina

Want Flight, Hotel, and Restaurant Discounts for Your Philippines Trip? Join Below!

Things to do in the Philippines
Donate