i guess i don't count because i am from the US (born/raised). but my parents migrated here before i was born, intending to get the education, training, and savings for a career in consulting (mom) and set up a business (dad). they always intended to go back home, and unlike many pinoys who have the same plans but never leave, they actually did go back home and are doing quite well over there.

after living with them over there for awhile, i did "migrate" back to the US after i got married - partly because i liked the opportunities here better, but mainly because i feel like my home is here....even though much of the rest of the world seems against us sometimes. i wouldn't say my family is 'mayaman' over there, but i had plenty of opportunities if i stayed in the philippines....talagang mas at home lang talaga ako dito.

what advice would i have for pinoys looking to migrate?

learn to be tolerant and accepting of other cultures and points of view, particularly if you move to a melting pot country like the US or Canada. minsan nakakagulat yung pag-iisip at values ng iyong new country, and you must learn to adapt and be open-minded.

it's hard but practice self-control. in developed countries with high standards of living and easy credit, it's very easy to go crazy and ruin your life with debt. i love the guys who come here, move in with 4 roommates in a small apartment, and buy a new E46 M3. on the flip side, if you are fiscally responsible, hardworking, and a little lucky you can retire young and wealthy like that dude in the above post

learn to live 100% independently. we pinoys are an interdependent culture, and it's easy to lean on parents, family, and close friends. but life changes fast, friends and family are not as reliable as you might think, and they may let you down when you need them most. make sure you never rely on anyone to do you favors, even for smaller things like watching the baby while you're at work