The TRUTH about being black in the Philippines 🇵🇭 (American expats share their stories) 

As a black American man😂, my experience in the Phillipines was great. The only negative I experienced in the Phillipines was the traffic. 😂

Black? Who cares? You’re my brother. I’m Filipino and you’re my brother. Welcome!!

As a black American who has been in 4 or 5 different countries, I never felt more accepted than when I was in the Philippines 🇵🇭 ❤

I just spent two weeks in Cebu, Philippines for the first time and the experience was so refreshing! As an African American, I found that the people are very welcoming and friendly. My time there was definitely enhanced by an older Filipino couple that embraced me and took time to expose me to much of the local communities of Cebu, including a day trip to the mountain region of Cebu and then to Leyte Island. I definitely plan to return to visit my new found friends and explore more of the country! 🙏🏾

If you are a foreigner no matter what you are ; Black, White, Brown or whatsoever, you will be respected if you respect us.

I love the Philippines, I married a Filipina, and plan to retire there. The thing I love about it is the people. They still have morals, social standards, they are modest, and kind. I really hope they don't copy the western culture. For those wondering what it is like being married to a Filipina, we have joint and separate accounts, we both put in so much, then they rest is ours to buy whatever we want. She never tells me not to buy anything. Lol She chooses to work, and actually asked if I would mind if she did. Which was a shock that she asked. She only asked out of respect fpr me, and that she would be working around other males. She chose to work at the same place. She likes the traditional roles. So she prefers to cook and clean, but I help because the yard work isn't as much. I tale care of the house repairs, and cars. It is a simp and calm life style. There is very little drama, just minor flare ups during that time of the month. Lol She is my first and only wife, and my last. Her family also never asks for money except for her daughter, and that is for $5 usd for food for her and the 2 grandbabies, because her husband would be in between jobs. But of course we send more, and send stuff for them. I feel like I finally have that little family I always wanted. It is nice to feel like I have a purpose.

Being black in the Philippines is not a big deal. Actually here's a trivia, our ancestors in the Philippines are ebony Black, from the ancient pygmy tribes Aeta, Ati, Dumagat, Mamanwa, Tagbanua etc. We even share their facial features, even though most of the rest of us were mixed with Malayo-Polynesians, Chinese and Spanish and so our skin is now brown and so some of us have some Asian and European features too. I remember when we were kids, me and my friends or cousins we used to call each other negro, coz when Filipinos get exposed too much from the sun our color literally turns black. And that's another fun fact. 😂

As a Taiwanese American now living in the PH, I can honestly say the old awkwardness between the Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese etc. stemming from the old wars, are now mostly in the past. My siblings have all married outside of our own race except for one. I'm with a Filipina. One thing I will say is that the governments may have challenges with each other, but as far as the regular folks, the civilians are concerned, we are no more at odds than anybody. Have a good life!

My dad is black and my mom is filipino. From what I could tell, filipino ppl are not racist towards black. My mom's relatives were always warm and welcoming to my dad. I think one thing that black ppl n filipinos have in common is we just value friendship, bonds and authenticity. That's why we can get along

I am from Huntsville, Alabama, and I lived and studied in the Philippines and I love it. The people are friendly and beautiful, the food, the place is just so inviting. I have been to other Asian countries but the Philippines is my favorite place. I plan to visit again.

I'm Black & for some reason or another Filipino's think I'm Pinoy. My wife is Pinay, Oo you look Filipino. My wife best friend, Oo you look Filipino. I've had Filipino walk up & speak Tagalog first & then doubt me when I said I'm American. 😂 My wife Identify as a Black woman. Trust fam you've got nothing to worry about being Black in the Philippines. 😂

As an aussie surfer who visits Philippines as my surfing destination every year, I have to admit the Filipinos are the nicest I have met. I met a beautiful Filipina surfer who was engaged to a Black dude from the US. Lucky bugger! 🙂

I’m 58 year black man. Wanting to come to the Philippines for the first time. The interview with the different age and lifestyle of the black men you interviewed. Very good 👍🏾 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

Filipinos don't care who you are..as long as you are good...respectful everybody is welcome and friends.

I visited in 2017 and I’ve gotta say…the Philippine people are FANTASTIC!! I enjoyed my stay immensely!

Omg I’m a black girl 21 yrs and it’s always been my dream to live in the Philippines it looks so peaceful and friendly and the people there seems really kind

OMG now as a black man I really appreciate this and can definitely relate. I had been stationed in the Philippines when the USA had a base in Angeles. I spent 3 years there. And before the pandemic ended travel. I had traveled back there every year sometimes 2x a year. What I like most about the 🇵🇭 is the family vibe and most people are so kind and courteous. I’ve traveled to six continents and so many countries and places I can’t remember them all. The 🇵🇭 is by far the most welcoming place of all. I loved ❤this video it says a lot . My brother thank you for sharing 👍🏾 ✌🏾!

There’s no reason that we don’t love Americans and black Americans who love us because zero hate all ,,,❤❤❤ my home is your home 🏠 guys forget about the difference,,we are created equal

I encountered many Filipinos at school in Montreal. Man Are they ever friendly. I am heading to the Philippines for two weeks this summer ‘24.

Good video and thank you gentlemen for representing us on this video in a intelligent, articulate way. Not only for us African Americans but for all Americans too. Been married to my wife (Filipina) going on 34years and together for 35. Been around Filipino community for a long time and most experiences have been positive.😊

The Philippines 🇵🇭 Is A Very Neutral Country ... The People Are Wonderful, Welcoming, More So Than Alot Of Other Countries ...

First of all, I'm not black. However I think the one gentleman hit the nail square on the head. The Philippines is a family sort of feeling and atmosphere. I can think of very little negatively in the people. Definitely the number one place for anyone wanting to retire in a relaxed, affordable as well as accommodating atmosphere. The acceptance of every ethnic group is amazing. I love it. ❤!

I love this video, I'm moving to the Philippines from Texas and I would love to meet some Filipino friends before I relocate. I am a UGC (Content creator) and specialize in End of Life counseling. Let's connect

I love the Philippines... built my home , a music studio and i vlog about all my travels here and outside of the Philippines... im here for good

Great interview about being black in the Philippines. All four guys seem like they like it. The first guy Andy is a really humble guy with a good attitude to life, He was respectful and even said sure thing Alex take care. And being young and travelling is the way to have a great outlook on the world. And the last guy saying he will probably relocate to the Philippines means that being out of the comfort zone is a good step.

Bold move for you to tackle this subject. You did a great job!

I travel annuallly to the Philippines since 2013 and have a BLAST everytime I'm there! I have family on multiple islands and always welcomed with open arms! Being retired military and traveled around the globe I know that if I were to live abroad it would either be Europe or Philippines. Philippines has the family-style atmosphere, making you feel at home. Whenever we go to the resorts or mall, Filipinas always smile and greet me in a friendly way! Filipinos are very friendly and courteous and has never shown any prejudice towards me whether I'm with my wife (who is a Filipina) or alone. Adapting to the culture is easy and you must have an open mind about how things are in the Philippines...do not go there with that "I'm an American and I'm better than you" attitude! You will have to get used to traffic congestion, poor internet services (in some places), physical contacts (touching), poverty in many places, food choices, transgenders (commonly called Ladyboys), so keep an open mind. One big thing is that if you're a beer drinker, the culture is buying a 40 ounce Red Horse, pour it in a glass, drink it, and pass the glass to the next person to drink! You don't have to if you prefer not to, but this IS a culture thing! And when it comes to resorts they are very reasonable in most cases, but some have a "Filipino" rate and some have "Foreigner" rate like Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark, Cebu which is more expensive for foreigners checking in at the desk. I rarely see another black person in Cebu, Philippines, when I do we just "nod" our heads and go about living our lives. You can live comfortable in the Philippines if you have a decent income, but if you get a job there DO NOT EXPECT the same type of pay you were making stateside unless you're working for our government overseas.

You guys are always welcome here... One thing we ask from you especially to all passport bro's is to "ENJOY YOUR VISIT IN THE PHILIPPINES " You are welcome...!!! Color or Race is not an issue to us for real no cap!!! One more thing. RESPECT/HONESTY etc. will always win the heart of a "Filipina"

My advice do not RUSH into marriage get to know the girl first as well as her family, as long as you are respectful to the ladies and adopt our culture Filipinos are the friendliest people in the world, we are also not into material things, as long as we have a roof over our head and food in the table, we are happy, and dont forget we are the only Christian country in the FarEast. Mabuhay and God Bless and good luck.

I spent the month of August in the Philippines. Loved it, The people are very gracious and welcoming and friendly. I felt welcomed and safe everywhere I went. Manila, Cebu, Palawan and GenSan. The people are Awesome.

I’ve been living in the Philippines starting 1983. I love this country and the people here! I’m a retired US military 100% disabled vet. with melaninated skin. I am living in a peaceful place and I feel safe, respected, and loved! I’ve only had one occurrence with a Filipino, but some other Filipinos put a stop to it, to my advantage!

What the first guy meant is that in Thailand he felt like a tourist, but in the Philippines he feels more like a family.

I'm Filipino. When we say you're black or a "negro" we actually are saying you're black and there's no racist thoughts associated with that. We too were colonized and enslaved for over 450 years by the Spanish and Americans. Most Filipinos don't even know what racism means

Great topic to take on, and the guest were a true to life look into being black in the Philippines. This Sept 30th will be my 8th year living in the Philippines and I have not experienced one bit of racism from the Filipino people. Ive been married for 7 of the 8 years here and my wife and I had a growing mall based business that we were forced to shut all eight of our locations down in Puerto Princesa and Iloilo due to the pandemic. Even in the high levels of mall businesses...not one bit of racism as well. Although it is not 100% free of challenges, the Philippines is a great place for minorities who are seeking a safer more accepting place in the world to live. Thanks for this video!

We don't really care much about skin colors (in terms of race), we only care whether you are a foreigner or not. Glad these people enjoying the warmth of the Filipinos, you are always welcome here.

The first guy is a very intelligent and articulate person. He is handsome too. Glad Philippines are good to him and our people.#lovethis

The first guy is a well spoken and intelligent young man!! Very informative and best of luck to him!!

I think you're one of the best interviewer. After you interviewed you followed up with an explanations like what you did in this video. After interviewing Black American men. You gave and explanations. Anywhere you go there's always some sort of prejudices and racisms.

Thank you for appreciating our dear country 🇵🇭❤

I just returned from the Philippines last Friday. People were so warm and welcoming. The only other place I felt like that was in Mongolia.

I am moving there next month. As long as you have traveled and are able to compromise, you will love the country.

There's no such thing as "racism" in the Philippines but "classism" certainly a big problem as well as provincialism.

Filipinos are shy to be the first to interact with foreigners. Try to approach us with a SMILE and ALL ARE GOOD... PEACE ❤️

I’ve been there twice and had no problems whatsoever. It’s all in how you present yourself. When I was in the navy we were always told you’re an ambassador of the U.S. when you on liberty. Now I guess I’m an ambassador of myself. Be respectful and that will get you very far.

Thank you for the kind words regarding my homeland 🙏🏼 My culture it's not about drama but importantly family, beaches, helping our family 🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼 From: 🇺🇲🌏🇵🇭

Awesome interviews Alex and had a wonderful experience visiting Cebu last December it was absolutely amazing and I'm currently making plans for a trip back next year. The people are so warm, kind, considerate, friendly and just amazing. As a black man I felt like a bit of a celebrity and enjoyed my 2 weeks there, which definitely was too short.

I just don't understand how Filipinos are so kind and welcoming. Are they born with that trait or is it something they develop? Probably both!

I absolutely love the Philippines!!! The people, the food, the different types of landscapes to visit...there's just so much to do and see there. But...the TRAFFIC in the cities You're definitely gonna need some patience or enjoy walking around

Glad to hear that visitors/foreigners enjoy and appreciate our people. Mabuhay!

I am not black and have not been to the Philippines yet but as an olive skin Mexican who has been to other SEA nations I must say overall Asian countries don't feel xenophobic or racist. In Thailand a lot of Thais were enthusiastic because I was the 1st Mexican they met and in Singapore, and in Japan every one was helpful and polite.

Great Video, and really liked your questions, and the answers given. All of the interviewees seemed to give well thought out and honest answers!

I been watching studying and exploring Philippines 🇵🇭 and I can't wait to visit. I met many ladies online there but I realized it's better to go than try establish relationships long distance. Pros and Cons everywhere

As a black canadian 🇨🇦, interesting video oh also I will be heading to 🇵🇭 next year in March 2024 to meet my fiance. Thank you 🙏🏾

Alex, what are you doing? You are covering everything and making videos for everyone. Keep doing it!!!!😊

As a Filipina, we don't have issues when it comes to black people, we also have a dark complex, in fact in the Philippines, black people seems like a big star where everyone wants to have a picture with. We don't really have a problem in skin color or races. We accept, love, welcome and respect every foreigner that visits the Philippines .😊😊😊 Btw, I'm married to a black American name @NoviAthrun, his so very handsome 🤗🤗🤗

Im half black and filipino (american) and whenever a filipino finds out im half filipino, i am immediately seen as filipino. They wont even say half they will treat me like their family

Great content...appreciating all the comment they said in regards to our country and people..❤🇵🇭

So awesome that the first guy had the presence of mind to say RIP for the people in Lahaina. Classy dude. Much respect from a Cali guy married to a Filipina born in Hawaii🤙🏾

Filipinos are very kind and social people. I got to meet a lot of Filipinos back in Australia and they are so friendly

I’d love to visit the Philippines. Definitely on my bucket list. At 58 I’m not getting any younger.

Love the interview. They express their thoughts imperfectly perfect ❤

There are pre-condition beliefs amongst Filipinos about both white and black Americans from social media that SOME Filipinos just cannot get passed, but MOST Filipinos will appreciate you for who you are, based on actions they see from you day after day because in the Philippines it is about your reputation. As foreigners of any skin color, it is important that we not only learn about Filipino culture and traditions but that we also respect those customs and traditions. Greeting Filipinos with a good morning or good afternoon with a smile on your face helps to build your reputation. If they respond positively or not is really not important...what is important is that you stay true to who you are as a respectful and kind human being.

Im proud as Filipino and im proud to say that Filipino is no issue about black people because we are both created by God 🙏 to all people see this blog i want to say you thank you and visit our country Philippines 🇵🇭 it's safe to travel God bless us all ❣️ ☺️ 🙏

Great interview Bro. Keep up the great videos! I cannot wait to visit Thailand and the Philippines!

Your vlogs are interesting. I love the ropics you discussed here. Thank you so much for advertising the Philippines to the world. God bless and more power.

Being retired US Navy Cebu is my place of choice vise in Subic or Clark. Can be frustrating at times but the people are truly friendly and helpful

here in the philippines, it really doesn't matter where you're from. we welcome everyone and it really comes down to how you carry yourself and if we see that you're respectful and good, expect to be treated like a family or close to one. me personally, i'd like to have a black friend again. i had 2 black friends when i attended college at adamson university and there were alot of exchange students there and most of them were black and they're cool people to be around. and also, if you get to experience those "stares" i hope you don't get offended or take it the wrong way. it's mostly because filipinos are a little curious and probably surprised to see a brother. to everyone who is here or planning to go here, i hope you enjoy your stay. Yeah! Mabuhay!

It's a mash up of things here. We are colonized so many times, we no longer can tell differences on races. Also, this country is very neutral when it comes to religion unlike any other SEA countries. We are conservative and open at the same time to cultures from other people so it's really "welcoming" if you are from a different country.

we filipinos dont care colors but the heart

It doesnt matter which side your on or color you have we are all human lets embrace love peace and humanity.

Thanks for showing your perspective and opinions on how we are treating you. I have met a lot of black folks by our place and I worry they are feeling isolated, but based on this, we might be mostly alright. Our heritage are mainly from african immigrants thousands of years ago who stayed in our mountains and forests so I am glad that you guys experience the kinship that we actually share by blood.

Great interview. These guys seemed very relaxed and your interview style was great. I think the emotions/interactions between people of different races start with expectations of what the other is perceiving and what their reaction and level of acceptance will be. In life (wherever you are) you're generally afforded the same level of respect by others that you show to them. Filipinos are like that - very friendly, courteous, and welcoming so when the guy in the Yellow shirt (didn't get his name) talked about a 'reset' it's easy to understand what he meant. Anyway, very good to see people enjoying themselves and smiling there.

When Filipinos say Negro, we do not mean any harm. We associate it to the color black. Remember, we were colonized by Spain for 300 years and negro in Spanish is black. We do not mean to discriminate at all. The first guy was so well spoken and seemed good natured. To add, good looking. Nice interviews, keep going

Very descent, informative, respectful interview Alex. Keep on coming.

this video is great bc it offers a lot of different objective takes. This was very helpful thank you

I dont mind the color. Its about how we roll together and create bond like a family

Just be wise with your spending thats all its nice to be a helpful and kind and a giver but just be mindful once you give a help to a person twice, three time they will think it’s so easy for you to help them and it become a habit. Save up for yourself.

Thank you Alex again for these wonderful videos from Philippines, I and my friends love them, and we want to go soon to the Philippines, take care my dear Bro

First time visiting your channel. Nice video. I look forward to seeing more from you.

Appreciate the way you approached this topic--several well-spoken guys providing what turned out to be fair and balanced comments. So many videos on The Philippines have negative things to say about the place and especially the young women. So glad you kept it real by interviewing smart men who have no axe to grind. As for insects, yes, they can be a fact of life in tropical climates. Still, it would be a very good thing if hotels there could finally solve the problem. Was in the West Indies once and encountered flying roaches in a place I stayed at. Didn’t know such insects existed. Had to pretty much fight them off with a tennis racket. A little scary at first, but by the time I was ready to leave, a week or so later, I was having fun swatting them around. I believe I really improved my backhand swing. In truth, though, it was a pretty disgusting experience, although the island itself and people were beautiful.

Keep it up ,its good to hear about filipinos,i am proud being a filipino and you are right.have a great time,thank you for sharing this video.

Good content. As a Filipino living in Chicago for more than half of my life, I've always knew that Filipinos look up to African Americans. Filipinos love basketball, boxing, singing and dancing. Growing up in the Philippines during the early 70s and 80s, I adored US pop culture and sports especially Michael Jackson and Michael Jordan. Racism towards black people in the Philippines does not exist because historically black slavery did not happen there. We look up to US because they bought our freedom from Spain and that's very important.

Love Filipinos! They support me and I love them so much

Interview some American women over there and ask them the same questions. I'm interested in hearing how they like it there, especially black women. I know a former classmate that got stuck over there during the pandemic and she stayed after the pandemic was over because she loved it there. She is teaching students there.

Great topic and content Alex… well done!👊🏽

I'm Filipino and 30yrs living in here. When I first came here wow I'm amazed because the people here are so welcoming and kind.And I learn FILIPINO LANGUAGE so easily. By the way I was born here at 94 and still here. And probably still want to live in here

I need to come to the Philippines Definitely Cebu I hear there are very great Choices in for wives if I do go hopefully at some point definitely open to that! And also was refreshing to hear the Experienced and Inexperienced Brothas about there time there no Flossing just humble Brothas like me keep it real great interviews and great encite from these Brothas thank you for this positive vibes! 🙏🏾😔😃🏯✈️🌪️🏖️🌅🛂 safe travels 🧳 to us all Sincerely and Humbled

Good job. I really liked listening to all these gentlemen.

Pilipino is not like that the attitude to being racist and they respect those who we are as being as a human❤

Subscribed👍 I really like how you put out your questions. Straight forward and unbiased. More power to your channel 🫶

nice content. great job ❤ continue to love our country

I got a Black friend here in the Philippines once when I was still working in a call center. We actually had a bad encounter at first because he got offended when I called him "Negro". He over time realized the word isn't used as being like a racist here in the country. It's just a word used to refer to a Black person, no racism.

Excellent coverage Brother . Thanks to all the brothers who shared . I am dating an amazing lady from LapuLapu ( swim suit model ) in her final year of college . The dating scene is amazing.First time visitors ; Find a rental condo in IT Park Area of Cebu , women in abundance, great food choices in area , and Ayala Mall in walking distance. Visited 2 times in past year and love it !!

I like your video. I have been looking for videos like this. Just keep it real and telling the truth.

Wow, this sounds wonderful! ❤️

The RISE of the PASSPORT BRO... Leaving this month for the Philippines, going to find a traditional woman, feminine and kind who loves the idea of taking care of our future family.

Skin color is irrelevant here, mutual respect is the key

Ricky really summed it up….I have one friend here locally that’s from there and travels back and forth often I think I’ll plan a trip there soon❤

Island culture is always the best. Always laid back and community minded people. Everyone is friendly and says hello when they see you. Nobody avoids eye contact like in a major city. It doesn’t matter the location on the map or the shade of the people. If they live on island and its hot they are always good people. During natural disasters you see the best of humanity when islanders band together.

Well said Fellas! ✨👍