Merry Christmas to All!

Philippine Christmas Song (practice) sang by my Co-teachers during the Faculty Christmas Party

Christmas here is really different from what I got used to. In Philippines, Christmas starts as early as November. They say that when a month ends with -er, it is Christmas season already. That is why, some people decorate Christmas decors in September but mostly, decorating starts in November. All the schools, homes and other establishments feel the Christmas spirit when decorations are displayed. It is the same here in US, people start to decorate in late November but still I can feel the difference in celebrating Christmas here. Maybe people are too busy with work and we don't have much time visiting our friends here. All my friends are miles away from where I live and every one's busy with their own chores. I miss my hometown so much, I miss my family and friends. Especially this Holiday season, friends and family are always together and people share the warmth of Christmas joyfully.

Every 16th of December, people start carolling in our neighborhood but some people start earlier. All the kids will form a group and bring their spoons, forks or tin cans to use as their musical instruments for carolling. I like the cute kids singing the Christmas songs in their own tune and words. A peso will make them happy and they will always sing "Thank you, ang babait ninyo, thank you! (You are so kind, thank You) and run, looking for another house. I remember when I was a kid, my mom had asked me to go to a store and buy something one night. But what I did, before I bought the thing that Mom asked me to buy, I sang a Christmas song first for the store owner and he gave me some coins. He knew me since he was my brother's Godparent and our neighbor. They enjoyed listening to my song and they laughed because after that, I spent the coins he gave me and bought candies from his store. I almost forgot to buy what my Mom asked me. There are kids like me even today. They like a "solo flight" as what we call it for carollers who are alone or on their own. Thinking what I did makes me chuckle. It was a funny experience :) I didn't care before, as long that I have sang my song heartily and I have something in return. When I grew up, I sang with friends, co-teachers and co-club members. We received more from the residents because we gave them a letter informing them why we did the carolling and for what purpose we will use the money.

The other things that I miss are the fireworks and the Noche Buena (Midnight Dinner). When midnight of the 24th comes, parents will wake up their children for the noche buena and to witness the firecrackers and fireworks display. People are too busy with their own fireworks too that some end up in the hospital. We used to stay up till dusk and spent the whole time chatting and eating. The guys will drink and play with fire crackers. But here, there are no fireworks or firecrackers because these are not allowed for use. Residents are only allowed to play with fireworks every Independence day (June) which is really opposite to Philippines' tradition. I really miss those days... It makes me home-sick. Last Christmas here, hubby and I planned to have a noche buena but he was sick so as what most Americans usually do, we just slept after opening our gifts and heard no sound in our surrounding. But this year, I will try our best to prepare for Noche Buena. I want this year a very merry Christmas for us. I wish a merry Christmas to all of you too!

State ID and Driver's License

It is easy to get a State ID and a Driver's License but it takes time for the latter. If you have the requirements, then the processing is quicker. For the state ID, your I-94 should be at least 30 days valid (here in California state because each state's policy is different as what I have heard). If it is not valid anymore, you can still apply for a non-driving state ID. You need a Social Security number instead of the I-94 or departure card in order to obtain one. Present it along with your passport.

As for the driver's license, a Green Card is required, SS number and a passport. Since I had my Philippine Driver's license, I had applied right away for a CA Driver's license. I just presented my State ID as a requirement for the application along with the DMV form. After the application, a written test is scheduled then a manual test, meaning, a hands-on driving with the instructor/examiner. I suggest if you get a license if you are still in Phillipines so it would be cheaper and easier to get a license here. If you don't have yet a DL when you apply here, you will be asked to enrol in a driving school which is expensive here (around $300) compared to Philippine fees. Once you are done with the lessons, the same procedure is made to apply a DL. You can visit your local DMV office for the requirements and more information. You can also check the web online.

Applying for a Social Security Number

This has been always a raised question and a topic in the forum. Wether to apply SSN before marriage or after marriage upon arrival as K1 entrants. And my answer is always the same. This is my experience.

Both have benefits, applying in married name (after marriage within the 90-day period) or applying after two weeks upon arrival in States in maiden name (the name that reflects on the I-94 or the departure card).

It's quicker if you apply right away in your maiden name because they can verify right away their records with ur record. So you will have your card and number for about a week or a couple. But you need to go back again for the name change later (Imagine the waiting time and the long line... but it's ok.)

On the other hand, If you apply in your married name, you will go to the SSA (Social Security Administration) office once BUT it will take 3 weeks or more to get your card (it depends). Why?

Because your name is different now from their records, thus they need to verify the name from the DHS office if the person in the SSA record is the same with the person, now married, in a different name. They will chek if your new surname is the same with the surname of the petitioner...if he's the person who sponsored you to get here. It will take 3 weeks or more (a month or so) for the verification. Your lucky if the verification is quicker then you will have your card after 2 weeks, just like what I've said it depends.

After the verification, you need to wait another week for the SSA to prepare your card... So don't worry if it takes longer compared to other applicants. Each of us has a different case...

Just bring your passport with the I-94 (be sure it is not expired yet or else you need to wait for your Permanant Resident Card or Green Card to get your SS#) and fill up the form at the SSA. For married applicants, bring your passport, married license (the one from the Hall of records and not the marriage certificate), form. Visit the SSA website and check for other new requirements if there are and the application procedures.

QUOTE
How do I get a number and card?
To apply for a Social Security number and card:

Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and
Show us original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency proving:
U.S. citizenship or immigration status [including Department of Homeland Security (DHS) permission to work in the United States];
Age; and
Identity.
Then, take or mail your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office.

Citizenship or immigration status: We can accept only certain documents as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. consular report of birth, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security will ask to see your current U.S. immigration documents. Acceptable documents include your:

Form I-551 (includes machine-readable immigrant visa with your unexpired foreign passport);
I-94 with your unexpired foreign passport; or
Work permit card from the Department of Homeland Security (I-766 or I-688B).
International students must present further documentation. For more information, see International Students And Social Security Numbers (Publication No. 05-10181).

Age: You must present your birth certificate if you have it or can easily obtain it. If not, we can consider other documents, such as your passport to prove age.

Identity: We can accept only certain documents as proof of identity. An acceptable document must be current (not expired) and show your name, identifying information and preferably a recent photograph. Social Security will ask to see a U.S. driver’s license, state-issued nondriver identification card or U.S. passport as proof of identity. If you do not have the specific documents we ask for, we will ask to see other documents including:

Employee ID card;
School ID card;
Marriage document;
Health insurance card (not a Medicare card);
U.S. military ID card;
Adoption decree; or
Life insurance policy.
All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. We may use one document for two purposes. For example, we may use your U.S. passport as proof of both citizenship and identity. Or, we may use your U.S. birth certificate as proof of age and citizenship. However, you must provide at least two separate documents.

We will mail your number and card as soon as we have all of your information and have verified your documents with the issuing offices.

The process for your children to apply is pretty much the same as it is for you to apply, although you probably need to go with them and may have to also sign some things.

Below is my timeline:

March 30, 2007, I submitted the following documents for SScard (SS office, Bak, CA):

-Passport/visa with I-94
-marriage license
-ssc application form

They told me to wait for 3 weeks cos they will send copies of the documents to the Dept of Homeland Security for a name check.

April 24, 2007, I received a notice that I will have my SSC within two weeks, if not, I'll just give them a call.

It takes a month and few days for you to have your SSC if you apply in your married name. It will take 2 weeks only to wait for the SSC after application if you'll apply in your maiden name...then another papers and weeks for the name change...

Related Links:

TIN
Non-Immigrant Visa for a Spouse (K3)
SSA Handout

Adjustment of Status

It was August 22 last year when I had my Adjustment of Status interview. My husband was with me and he drove me to Fresno where the USCIS office was. It was also our 5th month of marriage and our interview for AOS application.

So everything was ready. We packed up all documents and pictures then headed to fresno at 5:30 am. My interview was 8:30 but we arrived @7:30am so we had time to have our breakfast. Also, they won't allow us to get inside the office since it was too early for our schedule or appointment. They didn't want to have a lot of people inside waiting so we strolled for a while after having our breakfast. We entered the building @ 8am and was called @ 8:35 for the interview. The interview was quick. The officer just asked me the same questions I answered on the form I-485. After that, he let me sign and he checked our ID cards. When he came back, he said, my card will be received after 10 days and he reminded us when to apply for I-751 or removal of conditions. That was it, so quick. We just told them that we prepared everything and he just smiled and said " I believe You're being truthful." Hubby and I even kissed in front of him. We were so happy! A nice gift for our monthsarry. We headed to the Fresno Zoo and Yosemite park after. We had a great time!

USCIS Service and Office Locator

How To Apply For a Teaching Job in USA?

If you are wondering what to do inorder for you to get a job, you need to know this. This is only good for foreign people who are in USA and have a transcript of records taken from their homeland.

The first thing you need to do is have your foreign transcript evaluated for employment in United States. Like in my case, I came from the Philippines which have different educational system so I need my records to be evaluated inorder to be accepted here. The Phil educational system has 6 years in elementary , 4 years in secondary school while the US has 6 years in elementary and 6 years in high school. There are a difference of two years before a student can proceed to college. Also the grades used are different. We have numbers while they have letters. But some colleges in Philippines use letters too like the Xavier University. That is why evaluation of our TOR is important. But wait, you can't go right away to any agency that does evaluation. There are a lot in here. If you are applying as a teacher, you need to go to your school district to inquire first what are the requirements and what to do inorder to get a teaching job or any work that the district offers (clerk, management information specialist, child development center aid etc). They will then instruct you to have your records evaluated by their acceptable/certified agencies that do the evaluation. It depends to the district where they would recommend the applicants to have the evaluation. They have the list of agency where to go. Then do your part. My high school transcript and diploma was accepted by the district here in our county. I had it translated first befor I submitted it. In the equivalency evaluation result that I had, it was stated there that the university I was in was accepted or credited by their system. The school where you studied is important along with the courses too.

The results also vary for a different situation. I have a friend who took the certification of educational equivalency for her Phil HS diploma because it was needed for a job she was planning to apply but she was asked to take additional units to obtain the equivalency. She joined the adult school to take classes and received her US HS diploma successfully. So it depends on the school. (If you are looking forward to enroll in college, you can have your High School credits evaluated at World Educational Services.)

By the way, I just passed the requirements as a Teacher Aid and started to work. The principal has recommended me to teach in vocational schools or middle schools because my qualifications fit well to be a teacher. I just need to take the licensing exam first. So to those who plan to apply for a job, prepare your transcript of records to be evaluated now. When you have your, SSN, Green Card/ resident permanent card or your EAD (Employment Authorization Documents), you are good to go. Below is an iformation regarding EAD.

[quote name='MrkGrismer' date='Nov 25 2008, 04:15 PM' post='182279']
The law says that a K-1 entrant is authorized to work as part of the K-1 visa. However the K-1 entrant is also required to obtain documentation from USCIS. USCIS considers that documentation to be the Employment Authorization Documents (EAD). However, a K-1 entrant that is working without the EAD is not in violation of the law (the K-1 is, by law, allowed to work). However the employer could be fined for not having the proper documentation on file. Although such a thing seems unlikely to happen as it is not generally worth it for immigration to make an issue of it. "

Goodluck to all applicants!

Vaccinations for AOS

During my visa process, TD vaccine (tetanus diphtheria) was not available at St. Luke's Medical Clinic yet. That was why when I got here in US, I took my vaccination at a county clinic since it was required for my AOS (Adjustment of Status) application too. The form I-693 was requested which has the transcription of my medical record from St Luke's clinic and the vaccination I received here and in Philippines. I also continued the other vaccinations (second doses and so on) I received from Phi such as the MMR. I believe that the TD vaccine now is offered at St Luke's. That means, a K1 visa holder will no longer take that shot here and will right away look for a CS (Civil Surgeon) for the transcription of the medical record for the form I-693 which is a requirement for the Adjustment of Status after marriage. Within the 90-day period which is given to a fiancee/fiance visa (K1) holder, the petitioner should marry the fiancee/fiance and after that, AOS will follow anytime. AOS is needed to obtain temporary/permanent US residency. There's no deadline for this but if you can apply right away, the better. Fees are increasing and it might cost more in the coming years.

Manila Embassy K1 Visa Guide

This was a post created by Sheriff Uling, a member of the VisaJourney.com forum, dated May, 2008. Visa Journey is one of the forums that helped us in our visa journey. We really thank the members for the continuous help and guide. Hope this will help others too who are now sarting their visa journey. I would suggest that you sign up a membership (free) at VisaJourney.com to be able to load the other links and see the samples made by the members.

Manila Embassy K1 Visa Guide… (Please read thoroughly)

TABLE OF SECTIONS

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS

SECTION 1
Overview
Section 1.1 Five Stages of the K1 Visa Immigration Process

SECTION 2
Introduction
Section 2.1 K1 Visa Introduction
Section 2.2 K2 Visa Derivative Status for Children of K1 Visa Applicants
SECTION 3
Post NOA1 (Receipt Notice) Information
Section 3.1 Petition Case Status
SECTION 4
Post NOA2 (Approval Notice) Information
Section 4.1 NOA2 Expiration Date
Section 4.2 The National Visa Center (NVC)
Section 4.3 The Manila Embassy (USE)
Section 4.4 The Department of State (DOS)
Section 4.5 Document Verification
Section 4.6 Visa Interview Appointments website
Section 4.7 St. Luke's Medical Extension Clinic (SLMEC)
SECTION 5
Post Visa Approval Information
Section 5.1 DELBROS
SECTION 6
Post Visa Delivery Information
Section 6.1 Visa and Port of Entry (POE) Package
Section 6.2 CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar
Section 6.3 The I-94 Arrival / Departure Record
SECTION 7

Final Notes and Closing
Section 7.1 Closing Remarks
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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS:

SA1: Per the Manila Embassy website [CLICK HERE], starting February 1, 2008, the Manila Embassy has imposed a document verification fee. According to their staff, the fee should be paid at least a month before the visa interview. Please review section 4.5 for more details.

SA2: Per the Manila Embassy website, as of March 2008, there is an updated Packet 4 [ENGLISH / TAGALOG] for K1/K2 visas (see Section 4.3 for more details).

SA3: Per the Manila Embassy website [CLICK HERE], "...starting March 10, 2008, there will be an increase in the delivery fee from PhP 135 to PhP 250 per visa packet for Metro Manila and other key cities..."

SA4: Per the Manila Embassy website (closer to the bottom) [CLICK HERE], starting March 14, 2008, those applying for K1, K2, K3 and K4 visas who have been notified by the Embassy to prepare for their interview can call a Visa Information Service operator to schedule an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy.

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SECTION 1 - Overview

1.1 K1 VISA IMMIGRATION STAGES - A simplified and theoretical overview of the Five Stages of the K1 Visa process, according to Sheriff Uling [CLICK HERE].

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SECTION 2 - Introduction/Starting Line

2.1 K1 Visa INTRODUCTION - Just starting out, then please review the information within post #1 of VJ's General K1 Guides and Info thread [CLICK HERE].

2.2 Children Have DERIVATIVE STATUS - The unmarried minor child of a fiancé(e) may receive a derivative K-2 Visa from his/her parent’s fiancé(e) approved I-129F petition. The USC / petitioner must make sure the beneficiary’s child(ren) name(s) is/are on the I-129F petition. The child(ren) may travel with (accompany) the K-1 parent/fiancé(e) or travel later (follow-to-join) within one year from the date of issuance of the K-1 visa to his/her parent. A separate petition is not required if the child(ren) accompany or follow the alien fiancé(e) within one year from the date of issuance of the K-1 visa. If it is longer than one year from the date of visa issuance, a separate immigrant visa petition is required. Remember that in immigration law a child(ren) must be unmarried. A separate visa fee and medical exam is required for each visa applicant. The stepparent/stepchild(ren) relationship must be created before the child(ren) reaches the age of 18. After the marriage of the child(ren)’s parent (beneficiary) and the USC, the child(ren) will need a separate form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence in order to Adjust Status from nonimmigrant to permanant resident.

Following-to-join applicants may derive immigration benefits only if:

1) The spouse or children were acquired before the principal applicant’s admission into the United States; and

2) The principal applicant gained lawful permanent resident (LPR) status or was issued an immigrant visa under the family-preference or employment-based visa categories or was issued a non-immigrant K or V visa. Foreign nationals who immigrated to the U.S. under an immediate relative (IR) visa category need to file a separate Form I-130 visa petition on behalf of their spouses and children.

3) The principal applicant has not naturalized. Once the principal applicant becomes a U.S. citizen, a separate visa petition needs to be filed on behalf of the spouse and/or children to qualify for immigration benefits again.

Following-to-join derivative beneficiaries must present documentation establishing the principal applicant’s immigration status in the United States and their relationship to their principal. These include:

1) A copy of the child’s birth certificate issued by the National Statistics Office

2) A copy of the marriage certificate issued by the National Statistics Office

3) A copy of the principal alien’s registration receipt card or I-551 or a copy of the principal alien’s passport pages indicating admission to the U.S. as an immigrant

4) If applicable, Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition

DS Note: Once the Embassy ascertains the eligibility for following-to-join derivative status, it will provide instructions on how to apply for the visas. To learn more about travel clearance for minors [CLICK HERE] (Thx Roy and Yazi). Please also review the follow-to-join information provided by the Manila Embassy (USE) website [CLICK HERE]. The derivative status information is a compilation of information extracted from the Deparment of State website (Section 2.1), the Packet 4 supplied by the Manila Embassy (Section 4.3), and information provided on the Manila Embassy website.

=============================================================

SECTION 3 - Post NOA1 (Receipt Notice) Information

3.1 PETITION CASE STATUS - Once the US Citizen (USC) / "petitioner" has filed the petition (I-129F) and received a "receipt number" (listed on the NOA1), please register on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website using the Case Status Online Tool [CLICK HERE] to receive emailed updates concerning the status of the petition. NOTE: If you want emailed updates to multiple addresses then you must create multiple customer portfolio accounts. When the petition is approved (NOA2), the USCIS forwards the case files to the NVC normally within 14 - 30 days. The Case Status Online Tool is of no further use to you until after the beneficiary arrives in the United States, get's married, applies for the Adjustment of Status (AOS), Employment Authorization Document (EAD), and/or Advance Parole (AP) because this tool does not track the activity being performed at the NVC or the Manila Embassy (USE).

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SECTION 4 - Post NOA2 (Approval Notice) Information

4.1 NOA2 EXPIRATION DATE - Don't be alarmed if the visa interview is scheduled after the NOA2 expiration date because the Consular Officer (CO) at the Manila Embassy will automatically revalidate the petition by extend the expiration date in four months increments until all actions are finalized . No actions by the USC and/or beneficiary are required.

4.2 The NATIONAL VISA CENTER (NVC) number is within my signature. NVC assigns a case number after a preliminary backgroud/name check has cleared, then forwards your case files electronic and via snail mail to the Manila Embassy. This normally takes approximately 14 - 30 days to complete. Have the USC (petitioner) call (the number is within my signature) or email your inquiry to NVCINQUIRY@state.gov (be sure to include the beneficiary's name, date of birth, place of birth, and receipt number). A NVC Processing Letter [SAMPLE HERE] (a.k.a. Bureau of Consular Affairs (BCA) letter) may or may not be sent to the USC (petitioner), which indicates the case number and approximate time when the case files will be sent to the Manila Embassy. This complimentary NVC Processing Letter (a.k.a. Bureau of Consular Affairs (BCA) letter) is not required for any stage in the immigration process.

4.3 The MANILA EMBASSY (USE) number is (603) 334-0700 press 1, then 5... Family and/or friends are prohibited from entering the facility, unless otherwise required. Once the USE has received the hard copy case file from the NVC, the K1 Visa Applicant/beneficiary's case will begin processing. The USE will subsequently send the beneficiary a Confirmation Letter [SAMPLE HERE] (Thx dbears) indicating that the hard copy case file has been received and that the visa interview may be scheduled. The USE Confirmation Letter is not Packet 3. THE USE ONLY ISSUES PACKET 4 WHICH IS NOW ONLY AVAILABLE ONLINE. Please review this instructional visa interview/USE layout information/testimonial [CLICK HERE] (Thx Sillygirl).

K1/K2 Visa Appication Fee: The K1/K2 visa application fee may be paid at anytime and the beneficiary has upto a year to attend a visa interview before the receipt becomes invalid. Packet 4 indicates that BPI and Citibank will validate the DS-156 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application) form or the DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Application) form. FYI - In the past, only the DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Application) form was validated for K1/K2 visas.

Packet 4 (Visa Preparation Instructions and Forms): The Packet 4 (Fiance(e) (K1/K2) Visa Applicants’ Interview Preparation Instructions) released in March 2008 is ONLY available via the Manial Embassy website in [ENGLISH] / [TAGALOG], which means that Packet 4 will NOT be mailed to the beneficiary. As indicated by the USE Confirmation Letter, K1 visa applicants are now responsible for scheduling their own visa interview. In addition, the beneficaries are responsible for obtaining Packet 4 and the visa applications online.

Filing Out the Forms: None of the official K1/K2 visa application forms will not be mailed to the beneficiary, as of March 2008, but may be downloaded from the Department of State (DOS) website [CLICK HERE] which is indicated in the USE Confirmation Letter mailed to the beneficary once the hard copy case files has been received by the USE from the NVC. As of 01 November 2006, the DS-156 (Nonimmigrant Visa Application) MUST be completed online via the Electronic Visa Application Form (EVAF) http://evisaforms.state.gov/, which is sited on the DOS website. Completion of the DS-156K (Nonimmigrant Fiancé(e) Visa Application), the DS-157 (Supplemental Nonimmigrant Visa Application) and the I-134 (Affidavit of Support) can be done via computer (recommended), type-writer (just as good), or handwritten (last resort). To review the K1 Visa Forms (DS-156, DS-156K, DS-157, & I-134) most Frequently Asked Questions [CLICK HERE]. To review the Manila Embassy Thread's recommendations on what to bring (which directly corresponds with Packet 4) and sample questions asked by the Consular Officer during the visa interview [CLICK HERE]. All applications and/or back-up documentation referenced in Packet 4 should be presented during the visa interview and should NOT be mailed or faxed to the USE unless explicitly instructed to do so by the USE.

Scheduling the Visa Inerview and Medical Exam: The visa interview may be scheduled by calling 1-909-101-7878 (from the Philippines at a rate of US$0.98 per minute) or 1-888-877-9888 (from the United States for a toll of $18 for three calls - pin code access provided upon payment). Once the visa interview is scheduled, an official Confirmation Email will be sent [SAMPLE HERE] (Thx dbears). Check out Section 4.7, St. Luke's Medical Extension Clinic (SLMEC), on planning/scheduling the medical exam.

Petitioner/Beneficiary Change of Address: If the petitioner and/or beneficiary has a change of address after the petiton package is sent by the NVC to the USE and before the visa interview, please call the Manila Embassy in order for the new address to be annotated within the case file, and complete the application forms with the new address(es).

Petitioners Attendance at the Visa Interview: The petitioner is NOT required to attend the visa interview with the beneficiary, and will NOT be asked any questions during the visa interview. In fact, some COs request for the petitioner to continue waiting in the lobby. Approximated 90% of the visa interviews are held WITHOUT the attendance of the petitioner, according to VJ member(s).

K1 Visa Pick-up Request: In order for the beneficiary to pick up the visa versus having it delivered by DELBROS (Section 5.1), make a verbal request to the Consular Officer (CO) at the conclusion of the visa interview. No written request is required. Honestly, the beneficiary has a 50/50 chance of picking up the visa. It also depends on the consular office that handles the case.

K1/K2 Visa Expiration: The K1/K2 Visa is valid for six months, which is good for a one-time entry into the United States. If the beneficiary is unable to depart for the United States immediately and the visa expires, a new one-time entry visa may be issued upon written request to the USE, which also requires the payment of another application and processing fee.

Calling the USE: The best time to call is between 7:30am – 8:30am Manila time. If the phone rings 4 times, the recording will start indicating that "the person on that extension is on the phone" simply hit the number 0 and it will re-dial the same extension (continue to do this until the phone is answered) (Thx CB). The Immigrant Visa Unit will handle the call even though the K1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa because of the beneficiary's intent to migrate and live permanantly in the United States.

USE Note: Effective 01 March 2007, cellphones and other electronic devices will NOT be permitted into the US Embassy and applicants who bring such devices will be DENIED entry, per the Manila Embassy. Be advised that on the visa interview date, the pre-screeners, at times, are very direct, rude, and mean. So do not be discouraged by them.

4.4 The DEPARTMENT OF STATE (DOS) number is (202) 663-1225, press 1, press 0,. After the petition is approved (NOA2), the USC and/or beneficiary have the option of calling the DOS instead of the Manila Embassy to inquire when the electronic and/or hard copy case files have been sent out and received by the USE that we sent by the NVC. In addition the USC and/or beneficiary may call the DOS instead of the Manila Embassy to inquire when and if the medical exam and visa appointment dates are scheduled, which is very helpful when the Visa Interview Appointments website (Section 4.5) is down.

DOS Note: The DOS has no direct participation in the K1 process (only access to the computer system to view the status of cases).

4.5 DOCUMENT VERIFICATION: For a step-by-step guide to the document verification process, [CLICK HERE] (Thx EricC). Per the USE website [CLICK HERE], "Applicants whose visa eligibility is dependent upon their marital status (i.e. K-1, K-3, CR-1, IR-1, F-1 and F2-B categories) will normally need to have their documents verified through the National Statistics Office (NSO) before the U.S. Embassy in Manila can issue the visa. Those with a delayed birth or death certificate or only local civil registrar copies of such documents may need to have their documents verified. In order to avoid unnecessary delay in the visa issuance process, the U.S. Embassy in Manila strongly encourages applicants in the categories mentioned above to pay the document verification fee prior to their immigrant visa interview. Payment can be made through any Metrobank location. The cost of the document verification is P650 per applicant (with an additional P50 processing fee) [a/o Feb 2008]. For specific instructions on how to pay the document verification fee, please [CLICK HERE]. If you are unable to pay for the document verification before your immigrant visa interview, you may be asked to pay the fee on the day of your interview. Please note that if you pay on the day of your interview, there will be a delay of one to two weeks in the processing of your application." In order to locate a Metrobank near you [CLICK HERE]. After the document verification fee is paid, please text Delbos at (0917) 5555­-313 and key-in as follows [IN ALL CAPS]: USE/CASE NO./LASTNAME, FIRSTNAME MIDDLENAME/BRANCH NAME/DATE OF DEPOSIT/TIME OF DEPOSIT/AMOUNT DEPOSIT


For example - USE/MNL123456789/DELA CRUZ, JUAN PABLO SANTOS/MANDAUE CITY/11NOV2007/11:45AM/PHP1300

The beneficiary will receive a confirmation text from Delbros stating, "This is to acknowledge the deposit you made. We confirm your payment to the document verification as required by the US Embassy. Thank you. Delbros delivers!" If the beneficiary texted the format incorrectly, Delbros will send a text message stating, "Incomplete information or Invalid format" in which case the beneficiary is required to re-text Delbros using the correct format. It is further recommended that the beneficiary call Delbros directly at 2-339-2761 to ensure the results of the document verification are sent to the USE prior to the visa interview. In preparation for the visa interview, please bring the original receipt (from Metrobank as back-up) and a copy to give the USE in order to validate the payment of the document verification fee was paid as part of the required documents.

DV Note: Beneficiaries are NOT required to bring NSO certified documents to Metrobank or Delbros prior to or subsequent payment of the documentation verification fee. Delbros will be checking with the government agencies to make sure what you are submitting is real on the USE's behalf. The USE recommends that beneficiaries pay the document verification fee and text Delbros at least a month in advance of the the visa interview, in order to provide enough time for the document verification process (however, document verification may be requested anytime after the NVC assigns a case number).The USE further requests that the beneficiary faxes the document verification receipt received from Metrobank to the USE's Immigrant Visa Unit at (632) 301-2591. When faxing the USE, please be sure to include the beneficiary's full name, mailing address, telephone number, case number, and visa category. If you elected to pay the document verification fee, please, please, please periodically follow-up with the USE and Delbros to ensure the document verication process has been completed before the visa interview.

4.6 The VISA INTERVIEW APPOINTMENT WEBSITE [ CLICK HERE ]. While checking the visa appointment date and time via the website, please do NOT press enter after the case number is entered because that will not yield a result. Please click on the "Check Appointment" tab. If the appointments have been scheduled, the following will be available: Case Number, Visa Classification, St. Luke's appointment Date, and Embassy Appointment Date, but if the appointments are NOT scheduled yet, the result will be "Case Number Not Found on Appointment List."

VIAW Note: If the Visa Interview Appointments website is down (sometimes the site is down for a few days at a time every month normally for maintenance), the USC and/or beneficiary may call the USE (Section 4.3) or the DOS (Section 4.4) to inquire about the status of the visa appointment. It's very rare, however, there are occassions when the beneficiary's visa appointment is not registered or is incorrect in the database. If so, please follow-up with the USE immediately.

4.7 ST. LUKE'S MEDICAL EXTENSION CLINIC (SLMEC) [Phone#: 011-63-2-521-0020]. The beneficiary and derivative(s) are required to have medical exam(s) and vaccination shots before a visa can be issued (per the US Immigration Laws) and should be taken before the visa interview. Family and/or friends are prohibited from entering the facility, unless otherwise required.

The medical exam, adminstered by SLMEC, is a two days process:

Day 1 is the medical exam whereas the beneficiary's passport will be taken and sent to the USE along with the medical exam results and;
Day 2 is the vaccination whereas the beneficiary will be given the x-ray film and the DS-3025 Vaccination Worksheet/Record at the conclusion.

Planning/Scheduling the Medical Exam: Plan on a three night hotel stay in Manila to accomplish this part of the visa stage. Please review this instructional and layout information [CLICK HERE] (Thx Sillygirl), SLEC's Flowcharts for Day 1 and Day 2 of the Medical Exam [CLICK HERE] (Thx Rea).

Be advised, SLMEC works on a first come first served basis. Therefore, the beneficary may go at anytime to be administered the medical exam. Per the Manila Embassy Thread, we recommend that the beneficiary take the medical exam anywhere from 2 weeks to a month before the interview to ensure the results are available for the Consular Officer and to prepare in the unfortunate event of unfavorable medical results. If the medical exam is taken anytime too far beyond a month before the visa interview, there is a risk that the results could be invalid, which means the beneficiary will have to take another medical exam before the visa can be approved.

What does the beneficiary need to take to the medical exam? Check out the Manila Embassy Thread's recommendations on what to bring and sample questions asked [CLICK HERE]. Here are the basic required items that the beneficary needs to bring to the medical exam: (1) medical exam fee (payment accepted in pesos only), (2) passport (SLMEC will keep the passport and delivery it to the USE along with the medical exam results, so make a copy of the passport for your records), and (3) three 2x2 passport photos as stated on the DOS website [CLICK HERE] (referenced on page 3 of Packet 4). The beneficiary also needs to have the sponsors contact information (address, phone number, and ssn #) for the SLMEC forms. Please be sure to bring, at the least, the basic required items to the medical exam, but a more complete list is within the link for the Manila Embassy Threads recommendations listed above.

SLMEC Note: St. Luke's will forward the medical exam results along with the passport to the Manila Embassy in preparation for the visa interview.

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SECTION 5 - Post Visa Approval Information

5.1 DELBROS Website [CLICK HERE]. DELBROS is the company responsible for delivering the beneficiary's Visa and POE information. The DELBROS delivery fee is paid subsequent to the beneficiary's visa interview at the Manila Embassy. Per the Manila Embassy website, the current delivery time is as follows:

* Metro Manila Areas, Delivered one (1) to three (3) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier
* Provincial Key Cities (ex. Cebu City, Davao City, etc.) Delivered three (3) to five (5) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier
* Outside Provincial Key Cities, (ex. Capiz, Leyte, Bukidnon, etc.), Cost depends on area/location, Delivered five (5) to seven (7) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier

Per the DELBROS staff, the Manila Embassy can take as much as three (3) business days to release the visa and POE package, which is NOT included in the deliver times above. You may also call the Manila Embassy, dial 0 for the operator, and ask for Delbros, after the visa is approve, to acquire about the status of your visa delivery.

Online Visa Tracking Option: The DELBROS website (cited within my signature below) offers a shipment tracking option. However, some VJ members attempts did not yeild any results.

K1 Visa Pick-up: The only way to pick up the approved K1/K2 Visa is by permission of the CO through a verbal request at the conclusion of the visa interview (no written request is required). If the beneficiary has paid the visa delivery fee before leaving the USE, then they must wait for the visa to be delivered.

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SECTION 6 - Post Visa Delivery Information

6.1 K1 VISA AND PORT OF ENTRY (POE) PACKAGE - The package delivered by DELBROS to the beneficiary is enclosed in clear plastic, for which the visa, CFO instructions (see Section 6.2), and POE package (Brown Envelope) can be seen. The beneficiary may OPEN THE CLEAR PLASTIC ONLY. The brown envelope, which has the top left corner cut off, is the POE package that clearly has printed in big bold letters, "DO NOT OPEN" in Tagalog and English. And for some strange and peculiar reason, folks open the brown envelope despite the warning stating not to do so. So please do not open the brown envelope or the beneficiary WILL BE denied entry upon arriving into the US after the 13 - 18 hour flight. If for some reason the brown envelope is "inadvertantly" opened, please return to the USE ASAP and have them re-package the POE package. FYI - The visa is posted within one of the pages of the beneficiary’s passport.

6.2 The COMMISSION OF FILIPINOS OVERSEAS (CFO) - Beneficiaries are required to attend a GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SEMINAR that are held in Manila and Cebu, whichever is more convenient, before traveling abroad (the corresponding links within my signature). Please check out this instructional information on the PRISM Guidance and Counceling Seminar experience [CLICK HERE] (Thx Sillygirl). Family and/or friends are prohibited from entering the facility, unless otherwise required.

The CFO requirement consists of two parts:

Part 1, Guidance and Counseling Seminar (a certificate of completion is given at the conclusion); and
Part 2, a CFO Sticker placed inside of the passport/visa (requires the Guidance and Counseling Certificate).

The beneficiary is NOT required to have the visa in-hand in order to attend the Guidance and Counceling Seminar. However, the Guidance and Counseling Certificate along with the visa are required in order to have the CFO Sticker placed inside the K1 Visa for both the Cebu and Manila CFO locations. If the beneficiary is going to take the Guidance and Counceling Seminar before the visa is in-hand, consider calling the CFO beforehand to avoid any potential problems. In Cebu, the Guidance and Counseling Seminar is adminstered by St. Mary Euphrasia Foundation-Center for Overseas Workers (SMEF-COW) located at 3F Aya-ay Arcade, 60 Mango Avenue, Cebu City (near San Carlos Boys High). Conversely, in Manila, the Guidance and Counseling Seminar is administered at People's Reform Initiative for Social Mobilization Inc. (PRISM). For both the CFO in Cebu located at Causing-Lozada Bldg., Osmeña Blvd. corner M.J. Cuenco Avenue, Cebu City (near DFA Cebu) and the CFO in Manila location, the CFO Sticker will be applied to the visa despite the location where the Guidance and Counseling Certificate was issued.

Planning/Scheduling for the Guidance and Counseling Seminar and CFO Visa Stamp: These services are based upon a first come first served basis. However, there is a schedule for the Guidance and Counseling Seminar (the link is provided within my signature block). There is no schedule for the CFO stamp beyond normal business hours.

CFO NOTE: The CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar is not stated as a requirement within the Packet 4 instructions. However, after the visa is approved, instructions on attending the CFO Guidance and Counseling seminar are included in the visa and Port of Entry (POE) package delivered by DELBROS to the beneficiary. Travel abroad is prohibited without the CFO sticker within the beneficiary's visa (the visa is within the passport, as stated in Section 6.1). Attending the CFO Guidance and Counseling Seminar is a Philippine government requirement which states, "Per Republic Act 8239 and Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Order 28-94, Filipinos proceeding abroad as fiancé(e)s and spouses of foreign nationals are required to attend the CFO's guidance and counseling programs... " For more info [CLICK HERE].

6.3 The I-94 ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE RECORD form instructions [CLICK HERE] and for more information please visit the Customs and Border Patrol website [CLICK HERE]. Foreigners (beneficiaries) complete the I-94 and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer stamps the applicant's visa as well as the arrival / departure portions of the I-94 at the Port of Entry (POE) when entering the United States. The CBP Officer will keep the arrival portion and staple the departure portion of the I-94 to beneficiary's visa where they stamped the arrival date. The beneficiary will need this for the Adjustment of Status stage.

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SECTION 7 - Final Notes and Closing

7.1 Please...
* review the entire guide thoroughly because many basic questions are covered
* most sections conclude with additional notes/comments that may be of some relevance to the beneciary's case
* check out this list of things to consider in "Preparation for Adjusting to Life in the United States" [CLICK HERE]
* review the signature and story tab of my wife's VJ profile [Deputy Uling] for information on the Adjustment of Status (AOS) stage
* let me know if there are any suggestions/errors/updates.

Cheers!!!Sheriff Ulingp.s. A special thanks goes out to VJ and all the members that helped to forge this guide into existence. Hopefully this guide helps...

Thanks Sheriff Uling for the Post.

TD Vaccination: Form I-693

Tetanus Diphtheria (TD) vaccine was not available at St. Luke's Clinic before during my medical exam. That was why most of all applicants were advised to take the shot in US when they get here. I had mine at our county clinic instead of getting it at a USCIS Civil Surgeon's clinic. It was cheaper ($15) compared to what the CS has asked me when I did my inquiries. It is a smart thing to do to call first and asked about the available vaccine if offered and how much it will cost you to get that. You need also to ask how mush they ask for the transcription of your medical record (from St Luke's Clinic in Manila) to the USCIS form I-693 which is a requirement for the Adjustment of Status (Permanent Residence) Application. I paid only $20 for that. Others paid a lot. They even had another medical exam because they were asked to do it and they just followed what the CS has told them. You can tell the CS that you only need the TD shot which was required for an applicant to have to complete the I-693 form. I guess, the recent applicants don't need the TD shot anymore since they got it already before they left Philippines. They just have to look for a CS to sign the form. Here's the link: USCIS Civil Surgeons Locator.

Shipping Balikbayan Box to Philippines (LBC)

Hubby and I recently sent one LBC box and my family was so happy when they got it. We put a lot of stuff in it and mostly were food. This time around, I put only bags of candies and chocolates and the rest are clothing and shoes. These would be for my family, relatives, god children and friends. It looks smaller but believe me, I packed a lot of clothes (shirts, shorts, slacks, jeans, shoes and a lot more!) As usual, my husband is always amazed with my packaging work. Hopefully, this will be picked up and be shipped tomorrow since the schedule of shipping is every thursday. If you are interested to use LBC in shipping your gifts or stuff to Philippines, you can call their toll free number:

within USA: 1-800-338- 5424

Hawaii: 1-800-841-1535

So. CA: 1-800-575-0650

New Jersey: 1-800-522-9507

Washington: 1-877-983-9686

Visa Delivery Fee/Time

I stayed in Manila while waiting for my K1 Visa. I would never forget my experience with my visa delivery. My husband (used to be my fiance) has booked my flight a month ago of my interview date. He scheduled my flight on the 23rd of February which was a week later after my USEM interview, Feb 16 (Friday). I was so anxious at that time because I was not sure if I can have my visa on time. Thank God I received my visa on the day of my flight. My visa was released from the US Embassy on Wednesday and I had to wait 1-3 days for the delivery (within Manila area only) that was why I was so scared and been crying that I can't make it to US on Friday night. My original plan was to request visa pick-up but I didn't ask because I had the feeling that I will be denied. My friend was granted though so I regretted it. But since I had my visa on time, I was relieved and had made it to US Friday night. I really asked the Delbros delivery guy to deliver mine first in the morning. It was a favor that he didn't fail me. I thank him for that. Then I went to CFO that morning for the stamp and checked-out from the hotel at noon to meet a friend (Marichu) because we have the same flight schedule. We also had the same destination, California, USA. Below, is the information you need to know about Visa Delivery Fee/Time. Good luck to all who are waiting for their visa. Have a safe trip!

Please note that the processing of the visa after the interview normally takes four workdays. Delivery time varies depending on the designated delivery address provided by the applicant. Please refer to the table below.


Current Delivery Fee/Time

Metro Manila Areas 135 Philippine Pesos One (1) to three (3) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier
Provincial Key Cities
(ex. Cebu City, Davao City, etc.)
165 Philippine Pesos Three (3) to five (5) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier
Outside Provincial Key Cities
(ex. Capiz, Leyte, Bukidnon, etc.)
Depending on area/location Five (5) to seven (7) business days after release of visaed passport to the courier

For shipment tracking of the visaed passport, please click here .

If there is a need for the visa to be issued earlier, please inform the officer at the time of the interview. The officer will determine whether earlier issuance is possible.

For shipment tracking of the visaed passport, please click here.

If there is a need for the visa to be issued earlier, please inform the officer at the time of the interview. The officer will determine whether earlier issuance is possible.

Upon receipt of the visa, immediately check the information printed therein to ensure accuracy of the data. If correction is needed, please click here.

http://philippines.usembassy.gov/wwwhnv04.html

Removal of Conditions (Resident Card)

I will be removing my conditions next year before my Green Card expires. This time, I need to submit the requirements for the removal within 90 days before the expiration date. I already gathered some information needed for the removal. I am not sure if there are still more I need to have but below is the example of the letter and some docs needed as requirements. I got this from a helpful forum and saved it for my future use.

A Sample of Sir Jack's (Ampalaya of WOF) requirements for removal of conditions: I-751


Joan Smith
A#xxxxxxxxxxx
[Mailing address]
[Physical address]
Small town USA
Phone number

Dear Sirs,

Hubby and I were married in San Fernando City, La Union, Philippines on xx/xx/xxxx.
Enclosed you will find evidence showing proof of our ongoing happy marriage.
My daughter and I arrived in the United States on August 1, 2006 at Honolulu, Hawaii from the Philippines.

Hubby petitioned us using K3/K4 visas.

Since our arrival in the US my husband adopted step daughter, , who is now a US citizen.

Copy of daughters US passport #425xxxxxxx
Copy of daughter’s Philippine passport #PP0xxxxxxxx
Copy of Final Adoption Decree
Copy of daughters certificate of Foreign Birth Abroad.
Copy of daughters Green Card [Original was turned into the US passport agency.]
A097-xxxxxxxxxx
Copy of Green Card. A099xxxxxxxx
Copy of my Philippine passport.
Philippine passport #xxxxxxxxx
Life insurance Policy
Copy of Marriage Certificate
Family Trust, Deed, Will and Living Will.
Copy of Joint Homeowners Insurance Policy
Transcripts of joint tax returns. 2005, 2006 and 2007.
Copy of IRS stimulus check.
Joint car registration.
Joint car insurance
Copies of various joint utility bills.
Life insurance policy.
Joint bank accounts .
Copies visa cards showing same account number for
Copies of plane trip records taken during the last 2 years.
Pictures taken over a 2 year interval from arrival in the US to present.
Various mail received by me and Jack at our home address.
Form I-751
Affidavits from 2 peeps.
Copies SS cards

Hope this post helps us :)

California Civil Wedding

I came to US through K1 Visa or better known as Fiancee/Fiance Visa. My petitioner of course was my husband who was used to be my fiance. As a beneficiary, I did my part to be able to obtain the visa. I have been through a lot of preparations and research a lot of things. My computer was my companion at that time, since my husband and I didn't hire a lawyer. Visa Journey and TWOF had helped us with our journey.

When I arrived here, I had 90 days to stay and needed to get married before the days intended expired. As what we have planned as sweethearts, we then got married a month later after my arrival on February. "We had our civil wedding at the city's court house last year. It was quick and easy. We just went there and inquired about the requirements. They just asked me my passport and a government ID (I showed them my Philippine SSS card and they accepted it). After filling up the license form, we were scheduled then for the wedding. We had it that day right away. After the ceremony, they gave us a marriage certificate signed by the person who gave us the ceremony and with our witness. A week after, we got our marriage license copy. The marriage license is different from the marriage certificate. The former should be applied for a copy at the Hall of Records while the latter is given right away after the wedding. Then our simple reception followed at an Italian restaurant."

My K1 Visa Timeline and USEM Review

Below is my K-1 Visa timeline. These were the information I entered at VisaJourney.com. You may use this as your reference but remember, each of us has different case so it doesn't mean that you will have the same timeline with me. It might be a quicker or a longer process. So it depends on our case.

Event Date
Service Center : California Service Center
Consulate : Manilla, Philipines
I-129F Sent : 2006-06-01
I-129F NOA1 : 2006-07-06
I-129F RFE(s) :
RFE Reply(s) :
I-129F NOA2 : 2006-10-12
NVC Received : 2006-10-23
NVC Left : 2006-10-23
Consulate Received : 2006-10-23
Packet 3 Received : 2006-11-03
Packet 3 Sent :
Packet 4 Received : 2006-12-22
Interview Date : 2007-02-16
Visa Received : 2007-02-23
US Entry : 2007-02-23
Marriage : 2007-03-22
Comments :
Processing
Estimates/Stats : Your I-129f was approved in 133 days from your filing date.

Your interview took 260 days from your I-129F filing date.


Port of Entry Review

Event Date
Port of Entry : Los Angeles
POE Date : 2007-02-23
Got EAD Stamp : No
Biometrics Taken : Yes
Harassment Level : 0
Comments :


Adjustment of Status

Event Date
CIS Office : Fresno CA
Date Filed : 2007-05-18
NOA Date : 2007-05-24
RFE(s) : 2007-06-11
Bio. Appt. : 2007-06-13
AOS Transfer** :
Interview Date : 2007-08-22
Approval / Denial Date : 2007-08-11
Approved : Yes
Got I551 Stamp : No
Greencard Received: 2007-09-01
Comments : RFE: Tax Filing Extension Form and Business Permit/License

GC Received 10 days from interview.



Member Reviews:

Consulate Review: Manila, Philippines
Review Topic: K1 Visa
Event Description
Review Date : June 29, 2007
Embassy Review : My K1 journey is one of my memorable events in my Life. With this, my patience, creativity, perseverance and other virtues in life are developed and tested. With the help of VisaJourney, i made my journey a very easy and enjoyable one. I wonder what would it be like if i havent found this site(also the other sites who helped me too in my visa process). So i really thank and bring back the goodness to this wonderful site.

My interview wasnt that difficult. It was like presenting yourself to them/physical appearance to the Embassy. The Cos are very fluent, kind and really doing their job. They show concern and even show interest in everything u say (of course hehe). So u only need to be confident, do ur best and be honest. They wont bite but they wont give u the visa if ur not worth for it

Goodluck to the ones next in LINE.
Rating : Good

The Visa Interview Preparation

My husband, used to be my fiance, submitted our 129F packet in June, 2006. Weeks later he received the notice of approval 1. Four months later, we then received the NOA (Notice of Action) 2 that his application for fiancee visa was approved and we were assigned a case number. The case has been approved by the NVC (National Visa Center) then they sent it to USEM (US Embassy Manila) within a week. We then received a packet a month after the approval, stating my schedule for the medical exam and interview in 3 months. Before the medical exam and the visa interview, I already prepared all the requirements: from forms to evidences. I even made a documentation (video above) for my visa interview preparation. I paid the visa fee in Peso at Metrobank CDO which was a hundred dollar at that time and it was a day before my visa interview. I also prepared money for the medical exam in Peso ($100) and did the exam a month earlier in 2 days. It is better to do the medical exam a month/s earlier to have enough time to solve any problem that may result from the exam. A lot of us had it ahead of time. I was with friends at that time and I was with the same friends during my interview. It was such a memorable event in my life. We passed the interview and got our visa. Thank God! We are now living blissfully with our love ones. Good luck to the ones who are starting their visa journey!

Pre-Interview Preparation:K1 Visa

When I met my husband and fell in love, we decided to get married and live together. In order for me to be with him, he petitioned me to get to US. I entered US as a fiancee of a US citizen. The preparation was not easy. It was a feeling of mixed emotions and anxiety for not seeing each other personally for almost 8 months and scared that I might not be able to pass the visa process. I resigned my teaching job 4 months before my visa interview so I can have enough time to prepare for all the evidences and have time to spare and spend with my family and friends. Above is the video I made about the evidences I had gathered. On the actual interview, I pulled out the art papers with pictures and submitted it without the binder. Please don't mind about my appearance. I haven't prepared myself well for the video. I didn't care if I haven't combed my hair because I was too excited to do the documentation of my hardwork. My purpose was to have something to share with other people who will walk the same path with me. This was created 3 years ago. Goodluck to those who are next in line!

Home Sweet Home

This is our place in Philippines. My husband bought a small beach property with a cute house in Misamis Oriental and right now we have a little business there. We miss our place, especially the sunset. We used to watch the beautiful sunset every afternoon and enjoyed the salty water during day time. My friends like to visit our place and have a good swim while enjoying the Karaoke. I really miss it. At our place, we held our engagement party too. The sunset at that time complemented the ceremony. It was so beautiful. Indeed, God's creations bring joy to our hearts. The beaches that He made has been a witness to all people who have been in love. This warm place in Mindanao is a good place to spend a lifetime. We planned to stay there in the future. So from Philippines to USA, I'll be back to Philippines then.

Philippine Islands

Philippines is blessed with more than a thousand island, 7107 islands to be exact and 4000 of these are inhabited. The islands are clustered into 3 island group namely Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. I came from Mindanao and like the other islands, we have beautiful beaches and great attractions. God has really created all places with beauty and love. My husband likes the island of Mactan best in Cebu. It is in Visayas and has a lot of little islands which have pretty beaches. We both love snorkling and swimming with the island water. How I wish we can go back there soon!

El Centro

This is where I used to hang out with friends, with club members and with co-teachers. This is located at the heart of Iligan City near Jollibee fast food chain, Iligan City Post office, Crown Stationery, Fuji Foto Lab, the Supermarket and other business establishments. This is one of the busiest area during night time. People stand by and have a cold drink, chat and unwind. Usually, after a long day of work or having a club activity, we pass by this area (aside from the BBQ place and karaoke bar) to asses our work. I will surely visit El Centro again soon.

Iligan City's IPAG

"Integrated Performing Arts Guild (IPAG) is a leading Philippine dance and theatre company whose world-acclaimed productions integrate the dance, music, and arts traditions of the South where it is based." It is the resident theatre company of the MSU-Iligan Institute of Technology and the dancers are students and alumni of Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology. They have represented the Philippines in over 100 cities worldwide, and will continue to represent the country in coming world tours. The video above was Ipag's performance before they headed to US for their US Tour.

It was a dream of mine to become one of the dancers. I even tried to join the audition but due to my hectic schedule when I was a sophomore of MSU-IIT, I backed out and never had the chance to show my dancing skills. But my classmates were accepted and became dancers. They even danced abroad. My co-teacher's husband and younger sister are dancers too. They are the first group of IPAG dancers. Also, a student of mine in MSU-IIT has also joined IPAG. I am so proud of them. They continue to entertain people from all over the world with our popular Philippine folk dances. More power to IPAG!

Timoga Spring Pools

This is one of the things I miss in Iligan City, the Timoga Spring Pools in Timoga, Buruun. Timoga Pools is owned by an Iliganon family. They have more than 3 water parks with its own name. There is Holiday Pool, MiMars Pool, Main Pool (I think this is the first pool created), Dela Mar which has 16 feet deep pool and the biggest one, and Spring Pool. I might have forgotten the other names because it has been a year and a half now since I last visited it. We always go to Holiday pool because they close late around 10 pm. There are no over night stay but they close later than the other water parks. But if we are with students, we go to Dela Mar because they have a huge pool there for everybody to enjoy. The entrance fee before was 50php, I don't know now. Above is a video of Dela Mar pool. We were having a victory party with our students. Oh I really miss it!

City of Water Falls

Iligan City is my hometown in Philippines. It used to be called as the Industrialized City of the South due to the number of industrial plants that our city has. The shut down of the few companies has affected the city. Maybe that was why the name has been changed to The City of Water falls. The city is blessed with beautiful and gigantic waterfalls. We have more than 10 waterfalls and I have visited 6 falls already. You should see the Maria Cristina falls, Tinago Falls or Hidden Falls, Dalipuga Falls and more. The falls have become the main tourist spots and it has been popular to visitors.

From Philippines To USA

Welcome to my new site! It would be my pleasure to write about my homeland, Philippines and my new home, USA. ANything that I know of and I have learned from both countries and maybe in the future, from other countries. Come in and explore with me the different lands that God has created and the people who are unique in different ways. I thank God for the wonders that He has shared with us and the good things that life has offered to us. Let's live life to the fullest and experience the best things that our lands are full of.