OK - maybe time to get all this back on track. Ad rem even. The discussion started on the topic of how much money is required to live in The Philippines. That is like asking how deep is a hole. If you want to purchase modern imported technological items they will cost as much as anywhere else. It all depends on how far you are willing to compromise. The main expenses in any country are Housing, Food, Transport, Health and utilities. Anything in the Philippines that is dependent on local labour will generally be cheap. Houses are very cheap, Food is very cheap, Public transport is very cheap, Utilities are the same as anywhere, and finally health (normal GP and medicine) is cheap. Considering that the majority of the population live on about $250 a month (for families), that is the bottom rung of survival. Basic Cars, Jeeps vans etc. can be quite cheap - if you do not require the mercedes or BMW you are used to!! If you can survive on public transport, learn to use electrical appliances sparingly, do not need the latest gadgets, Have no major health issues, and are not cajoled into supporting the whole neighbourhood, then US$3000 a month is more than adequate. Less than that is a bit precarious - but very possible.