Is there a double standard in immigration law between foreigners living in the Philippines and Filipinos living in Western countries? Do foreigners here feel they are at a disadvantage?
There are far more Filipinos living in Western countries (the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe) than Westerners living in the Philippines. Many of them are OFWs, and they serve as a lifeline for the economy.
However, Filipinos living abroad gain far more rights than foreigners who live in the Philippines long-term.
Overseas Filipinos can become permanent residents and usually can obtain citizenship within 10 years.
*Foreigners have no realistic path to Philippine citizenship.*
Filipinos can eventually vote and take part in the political process.
*Foreigners cannot vote, and merely expressing a political opinion can get them deported.*
*Filipinos can own real estate and land.*
*The Philippine Constitution prohibits foreign land ownership.*
*Filipinos can start businesses.*
*Foreigners face restrictions, and the 60-40 rule applies to business ownership.*
*Filipinos can use public services such as healthcare, pensions, and unemployment benefits.*
*Foreigners do not have such access in the Philippines.*
*Filipinos have due process and the right to appeal in immigration matters.*
*Foreigners here can be deported immediately over minor violations, and the authorities have broad discretion over "undesirable aliens."*
So there are two questions.
1. From the standpoint of fairness, equality, and non-discrimination, why shouldn't we, as foreigners, receive the same rights in our own countries that Filipinos enjoy there? Why doesn't our government demand that?
Many of the posts here say that foreigners are a "privileged class" or "think they're better than others," but legally speaking, the reality is that foreigners living here have far fewer rights than Filipinos living in our countries.
2. How do foreigners feel about this? Do they feel they are losing out?
It's 100% legally a one-way street, and I have no illusions about that. Every foreigner living in the Philippines is essentially making a Faustian bargain. They get enormous purchasing power, often romance, and a tropical postcard life, while the country gets our capital inflow. We know we can never be legally equal. I think the arrangement works, but I don't see myself living here for the rest of my life.
Why should the government of a wealthy Western country campaign for the rights and privileges of its citizens who chose to live in a much poorer country?
Interesting point. I think you're right that it's easier over there, but I believe open markets and strong institutions are why countries like the US thrive and attract the best talent. That's why everyone, and I mean everyone, wants to go to the US. Property rights and institutions are far superior to anywhere in Southeast Asia. Some of the Philippines' restrictions are honestly pretty dumb, though. Not letting foreigners own land? That's a really foolish policy in a country where areas outside Manila have been underinvested for decades. They could open special zones in poor provinces that badly need FDI, letting foreigners invest and buy land. But corrupt, self-interested stakeholders in power will never allow that. Still, there are privileges as a foreigner. I feel like I'm treated better than locals are by their own people. But I also know that when push comes to shove, or if I get into a major disagreement with a Filipino, I will never be fully accepted.
Foreigners can also become Filipino citizens after holding permanent residency for 10 years and speaking Tagalog fluently.
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