DADDY CARDIO - Stay Fit At Fifty

Last month I turned 50!

I still can't believe that I've been on this planet for 50 years now, so crazy! Do I feel like I'm FIFTY? Well, granted that I've never been 50 before, I feel good.... I guess ha ha =) 

RECOVERY is a different story. It takes me a lot longer to recover from a workout, or a long day filming on location. I also feel a bit more stiff, but I've been trying to incorporate more yoga in my life (been saying that for a long time too lol). Another thing that I've been doing a lot of is "meditation". I've become a lot more relaxed and I give it all up to the meditating, it really works....if you work it. 

At any rate, being Fit at Fifty is a daily challenge. I get up and all I think about is work. The hustle is something that has been part of my daily life for as long as I can remember. I mean, just look at my Dad, he's 75 and is still active AND working, not because he has to, but because he wants to, it makes him feel free and YOUNG! Wanna know where I get my work ethic from? HIM =) 

Working Out with My Dad

So at times, I do place work over my health which is always a challenge for me. One day I will make it right =). Then again, a lot of what I do in the video content creation and media marketing business is staying active. I run after some of the fastest athletes in the world (pre pandemic, BUT looks like things are starting to get back to normal slowly but surely), and right now, I have been filming for my new youtube travel channel which forces me to go out and walk, run, hike and bike to create content, not complaining at all! That's the active part of my work, the other side is sitting on my ass doing all the video edits. I have to find that balance you know, and routine is out of the question because my schedule changes daily...I never know where I'm going to be. 

Please subscribe to my Obstacle Course Racing Channel, more content coming soon!

Anyways, what was this blog about? Oh yeah....DADDY CARDIO, that's what I did today, here's proof...BOOYAH! 

My preferred online platform for workouts - try it for free here!

Free Home Workouts here!

Stay active my friends, and hope to see you all soon!

Try the New Beachbody Workout #mbf "Muscle Burns Fat" for FREE

Hey guys!

I'm sure that you've heard of this "NOT SO" new workout program #mbf by now, and I recently just tried one of the workouts for the first time, and I must say, I really enjoyed it! 

If you have never heard of it before, take a look at this quick video to get a glimpse of the program.

#mbf - Muscle Burns Fat Preview

I wanted to post this blog to share the free sample workout from the "Muscle Burns Fat" program. As with all my recommendations as a Full-Time Beachbody Coach (join me), I only recommend something if I like it myself, and trust me, I like this one a lot! =) 

So as promised, I would like to share the free sample workout with you guys, and if you think that this is something that you would like to try, I have included some options for you below as well. 

I am currently based in the Philippines due to the pandemic, but I can easily be reached if you would like to ask me any questions, or get my advice on any programs that would be suited to your budget and lifestyle. My online coaching and accountability is completely free, along with the online groups that I can provide. Have questions, you can make me your Free Online Coach or accountability partner by clicking here! =) 

Free #mbf - Muscle Burns Fat Workout

And as I mentioned above, here are some #mbf - Muscle Burns Fat options should you decide to give the workout program a try!

BEST OPTION: 

#mbf with Shakeolgy Challenge Pack

GOOD OPTION:

#mbf with Beachbody Performance Challenge Pack

BUDGET OPTION:

#mbf with Stand Alone Beachbody on Demand (no supplements)

Other options..

- Free Trial of Beachbody on Demand

- Free Online Coaching and Accountability (Ask me anything)

- Shakeology Samples (Vegan Samples here)

Looking forward to your SUCCESS! =) 

~ Arnel

RUN YOUR FIRST 5K - Free Workouts for Running

I remember the first time I ran my first 5K, it was so exhilarating! But I didn't always enjoy running, in fact....I actually hated it! So what was it that helped me gain interest in running?

TRY FREE SAMPLE WORKOUTS BELOW

Well, I don't really want to bore you with all the details, but long story short, my brother introduced me into a mud run in North Carolina which was called the Warrior Dash, and when I crossed the finished line, I was hooked! That was in early 2011, and I've been running ever since!

I wanted to post this blog about "running your first 5K" to help others who either want to find a fun way to get active, and/or incorporate resistance training to become more fit to complete a 5K. Let's face it, most runners do not do any weight training because they feel that they will gain weight and it might slow them down. Although that is partially true, I'm not talking about being a bodybuilder here =). Adding resistance training during your runs, will help build a stronger core, and help you become a more well-rounded athlete. Even if you don't want to be an athlete, and you just want to be healthy, then this will be a fun way to do it. 

I think the part about that I like about this program is that it is developed by the company that I am affiliated with (for about 10 years now), and it incorporates indoor workouts with running outside which is what I love the most, being outdoors. If you prefer indoor workouts, you will love it as it will also give you the option of using a treadmill. 

I know that there are a ton of 5K run training programs out there, but not many of them incorporate resistance training, and nutritional advice from top industry professionals. Is this the best 5K training program out there? It all depends on you, but I can tell you from only my experience that having a complete package is the key, something that I didn't have when I started.

Let me share a quick video with you that gives you a glimpse of the 5K training program called the "30 Day Breakaway", check out the video below =) 

30 Day Breakaway

So what do you guys think?

I know that you may have a lot of questions, or still might be on the fence about starting....I completely get it =) So let me give you more details to help you learn more about the program, and what is included. 

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO GET STARTED?

Depending on your situation, goals, budget, the best way that I feel to get started is the right way. The 30 Day Breakaway Challenge Pack includes everything that you need to get started such as: VIP Early Access (if before March 2021), Shakeology, Beachbody on Demand Membership, Running Belt, Resistance Loops, and all the program materials such as calendar and schedule etc. 

On top of all that, if you start with a challenge pack, you will also get the Ultimate Portion Fix and 2B Mindset Streaming programs to help with your nutrition (which is 80% of your success), the portion fix containers and other trackers that will help you with your journey. 

Please also note that I will also be your personal online coach and accountability partner as well, so you would not be going at it alone =). 

Ask me anything! Free Online Accountability here!

WHAT IF I ALREADY HAVE A BEACHBODY ON DEMAND MEMBERSHIP?

You can upgrade and get purchase the VIP Early Access for the 30 Day Breakaway (available Oct 19th) which retails for $49.95 (streaming only). If you would like the accessories bundle that would be an extra $69.95 retail. Please note that doing it this way, you will not get the extras such as the Ultimate Portion Fix and 2B Mindset Streaming programs along with the accessories that come with those programs. With the challenge or completion pack, you would receive all of this in a bundle which would ultimately save you up to $300 depending on which challenge pack you choose. 

Get Beachbody on Demand Free Trial here

WHEN WILL 30 DAY BREAKAWAY BE INCLUDED IN THE BOD MEMBERSHIP?

On March 2021, the 30 Day Breakaway program will officially be included in the Beachbody on Demand library. So before that date, the only way to have access is through a Challenge Pack or ViP Early Access upgrade through your existing BOD membership. 

Confused? Just message me =) 

I WANT TO GET STARTED NOW WITH A CHALLENGE PACK, HOW DO I START?

That's great, just click here to find the best option for you! 

My recommendations:

- Best Option: The Deluxe Challenge Pack (everything you need)

- Good option: Challenge Pack with Shakeology Nutrition or Performance Challenge Pack

Running with Dad!

Follow me on Strava

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So I know that's quite a bit to take in, but if you have any other questions, feel free to connect with me, and I will be happy to get you started and help you throughout your journey. 

Me with Ultra Marathon and Legend Dean Karnazes

For a bonus, I have included some FREE workouts to try which will give you a taste of how fun the 30 Day Breakaway will be. Enjoy the workouts, and please reach out to me when you are ready to get started, looking forward to running with you! =) 

30 Day Breakaway Sample Workout

 

30 Day Breakaway Sample Workout from TeamBeachbody on Vimeo.

Get Shakeology Samples here (Vegan Samples here)

Sample Audio Workout

30 Day Breakaway Sample Audio Run from TeamBeachbody on Vimeo.

ON A SERIOUS NOTE: Now do you seriously need to do the 30 Day Breakaway Challenge to complete a 5K? Absolutely not! I mean running is one of the best things to do to get fit because it's FREE! If you were to ask me why the 30 Day Breakaway then??? Here's what I can say, it is an amazing program for people who do better with structure in their workouts and training, but at the same time need options for customizing and keeping things fresh. It's also for someone who enjoys and does better with real people keeping them accountable. The 30 Day Breakaway will help you learn more about running and how fun it can actually be if done correctly. Running for success is more than just running alone....it is about nutrition (how to fuel your body and what to eat), it is consistency, it is commitment, it is about incorporating other workouts to help you run better, but most of all, it's about getting started! =) 

ASK ME ANYTHING - Free Accountability here! 

Have fun my friends, and keep on running!!! =) 

Staycation at Paniman Beach - Ternate, Cavite Philippines

 

Oh how we have all missed traveling!

Although the pandemic is still upon us, at least it still is here in the Philippines, we are able to move around more freely, of course still following by the Covid-19 guidelines from the government. 

After my daughter Penelope's birthday last month, we decided to go out to Paniman Beach, a hidden gem in Ternate, Cavite Philippines. We chose this place because it is pretty secluded, and not very many people are there at any given time. There is plenty of room for us to roam around, so keeping distant from others would be easy. Actually, when we arrived, there was only one other family there, and so we had the beach all to ourselves, which we really, really liked. 

This was actually the first time that Arlene and Baby Pippa was able to go out and explore since the pandemic started, so it was nice to be able to take them there, if only for a day. Arlene's friend also joined us, and we had a great time. 

Workout and Get Healthy with me! (Free Accountability here)

Ending the day with a trip to Mountain Coffee in Ternate, Cavite was also great. With strict Covid-19 rules, we surprisingly felt very safe there. We only stayed for about 15 minutes, and decided to just enjoy our coffee and snacks on the way home. 

It was a nice day =) 

Check out our quick video here =)

How I Workout When I Travel 

Time to UNSTRESS =)

I don't know about you guys, but there are a lot of times in my life depending on what is going on, I can get a bit stressed. 

I know that there is a such thing as "good" stress, but what I'm talking about doesn't feel good at all =) 

For a lot of people, including some of my friends and family, we are always looking for ways to cope with stress in our lives. Unfortunately, some people turn to unhealthy habits such as smoking, drugs and consuming alcohol, which are all temporary solutions which most of us know can make matters even worse. I know this from experience because I used to drink all the time when things weren't going good in my life which led me to becoming a borderline alcoholic. Thank goodness I was able to get away from all of that with the help of close friends and living a healthier lifestyle. But it wasn't easy. 

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Even though I was able to get out of that unhealthy lifestyle, I..even till this day, I can still endure stress in my life. These days, most of my stress comes from not making goal achievements set out for myself, finances that go up and down, the Covid-19 Pandemic, not being able to travel like before, the stress of being the man of the house (the protector), Dad stress =), and just everyday things that can slowly build up. 

I am always looking for other ways to cope without going back to my unhealthy habits, and it has been quite the struggle. 

When the company that I work with came out with a new meditation program, I thought to myself, I should give this a try. In the past, meditation was always hard for me because it is difficult for me to stand still. My mind is ALWAYS going a million miles a minute, and I can get easily distracted. 

As I am getting older, I am understanding more and more about keeping things simple in my life, and resting my mind and body when it needs it. So with this newfound mentality, I think that it may be easier for me now to give meditation a try once again. 

For me, meditation is really just about making time for yourself without any distractions. But it really goes even deeper than that as I am founding out. I am learning about controlled breathing, and really leaving reality. I think it takes me a lot longer for me to meditate as sometimes I just keep thinking about what I need to do =). I have to really fight to get away and forget about everything that is going on, and eventually I do. 

Meditation for me is a challenge like some of my workouts. For example, yoga is very difficult for me, but I do it anyways. This is no different. I think that the more I do it on a daily basis, it will eventually get easier, and one day I can finally be relaxed. I am really looking forward to that. 

Superfood Shake Samples here! (Vegan? Click here)

The idea of being totally relaxed and not stressed is something that I need in my life. 

And that is why I chose to get UNSTRESS. =) Do you need to unstress? 

Let's UNSTRESS together!

I can share my tips, and things that I've learned for FREE, you can make me your Free Online Coach here!

Chat soon! 

TAKING YOUR BUSINESS ONLINE - Should you do it?

Take Your Business Online

By 2040, 95% of purchases will be made online. What does this mean to you?

If you are thinking about owning your own business, then this means that having an online presence is imperative to succeeding in the business world. With the recent pandemic making a strong negative impact all over the world, it just makes even more sense to learn how to take your business to the future. 

Does this mean that your business will be recession proof? 

I don't think that there really is a 100% recession proof business model. When the Covid-19 Pandemic hit us on all corners of the globe, I believe everyone was affected in one way or the other. I can attest to this because although I had a business that did fairly well during the outbreak, my other business went non-existent. So in my opinion, it is very important to create multiple sources of income, and if you only have once source from the start, I would recommend creating multiple stream within that source. Here's an example:

If you own a restaurant, I suggest having a delivery service where you can present your menu online, or try even selling retail merchandise via social media or a website. Another way to create another stream with a restaurant is to start a youtube channel, and provide cooking tip, advice and recipes. These are just a few ways to turn one source of income to multiple sources, so if anything happens, you will have another way to produce and help your bottom line. 

Take Your Business Online Course - Get Started here!

Why I took my business online. 

Many years ago, I visiting Europe and backpacked 5 countries in 30 days. It was such an eye-opening experience that I ventured to try to find a way to create an income that would allow me to travel and work at the same time. It took me almost 10 years to finally build something that was sustainable and consistent to where I could travel anywhere and still earn income. 

Working in my Airbnb in Malaysia

I currently have several online businesses that I enjoy. From affiliate marketing, direct selling, youtube, digital services, and videography, I surely keep myself busy. Whatever you do, my biggest advice is to enjoy what you are doing. Be passionate, and don't be afraid to take breaks. =) 

My Top Online Workout Platform here - Try it for free! 

So what is your goal? 

Are you thinking about starting a new business, or taking an existing business online? Are you already an entrepreneur and looking for a way to create a digital product to sell to potential clients? If any of these resonate with you, then I encourage you to go for it. It will be a long, but fruitful journey if you are committed and passionate enough. 

Taking your business online is probably the best decision that I ever made. And I hope that you find your path. If you have any questions for me, feel free to shoot me a message, I'd be happy to connect and lead you in the right direction. 

My recommendation:

I suggest taking a look at this online course called "Take Your Business Online". You will learn a ton of stuff, here's some examples:

- Learning how to build your own website

- Getting traffic to your online business

- Branding

- Targeting your audience

- Social media marketing

- Keeping track of your success

You will be taught by some of the top leaders in the industry with proven track records. But don't take my word for it, check it out for yourself! =) 

Take Your Business Online Course - Check it out here! 

Anyways, to answer the question about taking your business online, I would say, ABSOLUTELY! 

Stay safe my friends, and best of luck with your new ventures!!! =) 

Looking forward to your success! 

My Top Direct Selling Company - Join my team! 

What Running Means to Me

To be honest my friends, I don't know where to start. 

How do I create a post that really explains what running means to me without writing a book? I shall try. 

It all started when I just finished a workout program what was given to me by my brother back in 2010. Prior to that, I was in the nightclub business for over 8 years or so, which led me to a life of drinking, late night partying, and eating tons of junk food. My brother saved my life by sharing his fitness journey with me, I knew I had to do something, so I eventually committed to a healthy lifestyle for 90 days. With that, I was able to get my fit back, so fit that I think I was in better shape than when I was in high school, and I was in my 40's. 

All my workouts that I love on ONE online platform - try it for free for 14 days!

Living the healthy lifestyle is like an addiction as well. Most people I know, including myself were always looking for something to do to stay active, and not to get bored with the same workout routine. And yet again, my brother comes to the rescue and introduces a sport to me called "obstacle course racing". That was my formal introduction to running. Before that, the only running that I did was back in high school during P.E. I hated running with a passion! 

Long story short, I started incorporating runs into my workouts and started having even better results. I even won some podiums in running events of all distances, as well as obstacle course racing! This newfound interest led me to a project that I started called OCRTUBE. With this venture, I was able to travel around the world and film the fastest obstacle course racing athletes on the planet. It wasn't that easy. In order for me to create these videos, I had to also stay in shape, and do a lot of running and hiking. My quest for running led me to covering some of the most prestigious events around the world. 

On top of that, running and working out kept me sane. I say this because life isn't perfect, we all know this. Real life challenges, ups and downs always tend to show up and try to kill our mojo, and it has for me, so many times that it is quite impossible to count. You always hear about the "runners high", and I'll be straight up with you, because I'm not sure if I ever had that. What I did have was the feeling after the run that made me feel so good like after a workout that took hours to commit too! It was just that sense of accomplishment, like crossing the finish line at a running event, it just felt amazing....and addicting! 

And for the truth....=) I'm an average human being. I get lazy, and I don't always set goals. I know what I have to do, but don't always pursue them. But one thing is for sure, I eventually get off my ass with the help of the right people who I surround myself with. If there is one thing I can say about commitment.....it is this: find the right people who will support you no matter what. When I didn't feel like running or working out, I always had my friends text messaging me, or annoying me on some facebook support group telling me that I need to get my ass in gear, but it worked!  

With Ultra Marathon Man Dean Karnazes

Running isn't at all glamorous. Running isn't easy, but it's easier when you have a good support team keeping you accountable. Running isn't the magic pill to happiness, it's your mindset. 

For me, running is a great way to set yourself free from whatever is going on in your life. It will always be there for you if you want and need it. It doesn't judge you, or make you feel like crap (well it depends ha ha). Running isn't a way to run away from your problems, it's a way to help you conquer them. And I've conquered a ton since I started running in my life. 

Yes, so in a nutshell, this is what running has done for me, and what it means to me. If you're a runner, please share with me what it has done for you, I'd love to hear your story. 

WANNA RUN WITH ME?

I will be starting a FREE online group for people who would like to start running, or running again, you know who you are =). Whether you would like to train for a 5K, or you just want to run, this group will be for you. Heck it's really for everyone! =) 

Get a Free Running Audio Workout - Message me now!

If you would like to join me, please feel free to contact me (fb connect here). Spots are always limited so don't wait, it will be fun. And don't worry, if you have any questions, I will help you with any questions that you may have. Stay safe, and see you all soon!

   

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Healthy Mango Ice Cream - Quick and Easy!

Hey guys, I just wanted to share this Healthy Mango Ice Cream recipe from my fiancé. We made this the other day and it came out perfect. You only need 3 ingredients, and a blender and you're good to go!

My Favorite Peanut Butter and Jelly Smoothie Recipe

Here's a simple video to watch, and you can get the FULL RECIPE in her video description. Please let me know how you liked it, see you all soon! =) 

Healthy Mango Ice Cream from home!

If you would like more recipes like this including some really good filipino food videos, feel free to subscribe to Arlene's channel here! =)

FAQ'S - New Updates for 2020!

Hi everyone, hope all of you have been doing well! 

I am posting this quick blog because I have had some questions lately asking me about what I've been up to, so I decided to make a quick post about some updates =) As with most of you, this pandemic has brought on challenges and has delayed many projects for me. The most important thing is that I am healthy and alive, not sick and able to stay strong for my family. Thank you all for always staying in touch and checking up on me, I am grateful to have friends like all of you!

So without further ado, let the FAQ's begin =)

1.  Where are you currently living? 

I am currently still in the Philippines. My original plan was to bring my family from here to the USA by the end of the year, but this has come to a halt due to the pandemic.

2. What are your plans for the rest of 2020? 

Most of my video projects have all been cancelled, and most international borders are closed for foreign travel, so the plan is to stay in the Philippines and just continue my work online as a freelancer. I have started a couple projects since the pandemic to help cover the loss of work from cancelled video projects. Fortunately, I have online work which helps produce income for me and my family on a weekly basis, but working on multiple streams is what I am focused on as a safety net. 

3.  Are you still a Beachbody Coach?

Absolutely! This year marks almost 10 years being an online Beachbody Coach. I still help people with their health and fitness, mostly providing online options that can help them live more active lifestyles. My recommendations are based on my past experiences, so I never encourage anyone to do anything that I have never done before. 

Being an online Beachbody Coach also helps me stay sane during this pandemic. If anything, being more active at home is what I've been doing, and it's definitely much more fun with all of you. Feel free to message me if you would like some health and fitness options with no requirements to purchase anything. It's never been a good time to start a fitness journey, so let's do this together! 

Get a Free Trial of Beachbody on Demand - Free Coaching from me =) 

Make me your FREE Online Coach here

4. What's going on with OCRTUBE.com? 

For those of you who are not familiar with OCRTUBE, it basically is a video project where I travel the world and spread the love about obstacle course racing through video media. This project has come to a halt as I am not able to travel. The goal is to resume sometime in 2021, and help these companies get back on their feet. I am definitely looking forward to filming all over the world again, but for now, safety first with my family. 

5.  When will you be back in the USA?

That is something that I am really not sure about at this time. It would have to be whenever the international borders open up, and I am free to travel, and come back to the Philippines. I am still in the process of doing paperwork to bring my family from here to the USA, but with the US Embassy and other offices here closed due to "in and out" lockdowns, it has been quite a challenge. So a very short answer would be "I don't know" =). Once borders open, maybe early 2021, and then hopefully bring my family to the USA with me at the end of 2021, or early 2022. We shall see! 

6.  What projects are you working on now?

Aside from my affiliate marketing and online freelancing business, I have started a couple new youtube channels, and have also been active with Cryptocurrency and Blockchain. The goal is to not spread myself out too thin, so I have been investing my time with things that I am more familiar with as to not take away from the channels that are producing income for my family. Creating multiple sources of income have always been in my blood, but at the same time, only dabbling in things that I know can and will produce. Feel free to message me about partnering with me on some upcoming projects! You can always connect with me on facebook here! 

Check out my New Channel on Virtual World Explorations here

7.  Once the borders open up, what are you looking forward to the most? 

Well, there are a number of things, but the most important thing right now is to complete the paperwork in order for me to bring my family to the USA, and then I am very excited to see my daughter in Florida, it's been way too long. A big dream of mine is to unite my fiancé and my daughter here in the Philippines with my daughter in Florida, for me...that is the ultimate goal right now. 

I think that's about it guys! If i missed anything, I can and will most likely do another update blog. Until then, stay safe everyone and hope to see you all soon! 

Arnel

TRUE STORY

Today, like the many days leading up to this, I just wasn't feeling my workout. But when I came to a realization that I'm about to turn 50 this year, I said to myself, "I am not getting any younger!!!", and then I looked at my daughter like I have done many times with my first daughter Lauren as she was growing up, and then again I said, "I need to be healthy for her", and shortly after that, in 22 minutes, my workout was done! 

Too many days, we make countless excuses to not get healthy when we know that it should be the #1 thing to do. It's just way too easy to walk away from it, and pretend that we have more important things to do, and trust me, I am very guilty of this. 

Our Workout Arsenal is BOD (Beachbody on Demand) Free 14 Day Trial here!

The real truth is that nothing will be of importance if we are non-existent. Our health is the biggest investment that we can ever make in ourselves, and sometimes it just takes a little reminder like looking at your kids, and not forgetting the real reason for why we are all here. 

Today I was inspired by not only my daughters, but by my fiancé, because she just flat out called me out, but not in a way that was deemed as forceful or mean, she just smiled and said, "we need to do this, so I'll go first". She is definitely a keeper! 

Free Home Workouts - Try these out! 

Another wonderful day breathing and living in the moment. I am truly blessed to be here, and I am very thankful for that. =) TRUE STORY. 

Filipino American Expat Living in the Philippines

Hi everyone, I've been wanting to share this post for awhile now, and although most of you know that I've been living in the Philippines for a little over a year now, I have really never talked about the topic of me being a Filipino American Expat (filipino born in the USA) and how I got here, so this is what this post is all about =) I'll be making a video about this soon!

NOT ANYTHING NEW

Being an expat in the Philippines is nothing new. Just google or youtube "expat living in the Philippines" and you will see countless people from the USA and Europe living and finding love in the Philippines. Just like most of these expats, they came here because the cost of living is super cheap, and for some of them, they came here to find a partner because a lot of them could not find true love at home, or unfortunately lost a loved one and just wanted to find a place to start all over, and the Philippines is among one of the best places to retire, get lost, and get more bang for your buck. Yes, the Philippines is more expat-friendly then Thailand! 

WHAT'S SO DIFFERENT ABOUT ME?

Nothing really, I think the main difference between me and the other expats that you read or follow is the fact that I am actually a filipino. Both of my parents are from the Philippines, but I was born and raised in the USA, so I really never learned about my true culture, and didn't even learn the tagalog language. I can probably understand about 80% of the tagalog language on a good day.

If you look at me, I look just like a typical filipino, but once I open my mouth, the locals know that I am a foreigner, and they sometimes ask me why I'm speaking english, and so I have to tell them that I was born in the USA blah blah blah. You see, there is not much difference between me and the other expats. 

I DID NOT COME TO THE PHILIPPINES TO FIND SOMEONE

Not all expats including myself come here to find someone, in fact, that was the last thing on my mind. When I arrived in the Philippines as an adult for the first time in 2015, I came here to explore my roots, as well as backpack other parts of Southeast Asia. I came back a few years later to work on some video projects, and as I was traveling around Asia and going back and forth to the Philippines, that's when I ran into my now fiancé. 

We have now been together for over 2 1/2 years and are raising a little girl here in the Philippines. Did I intend to live here? Nope, not at all, but that is how my life has been the past few years, nothing planned and just going with the flow, and by doing that, I now have an amazing and simple life here in the Philippines. 

THE STRUGGLES OF BEING A FILIPINO AMERICAN EXPAT

Living in the Philippines has many benefits, but that doesn't mean sh%t does not happen. Being an American, I am accustomed to certain things, and so there are things that I have had to get used to while living here. For example, the driving etiquette can get a little crazy, and if you're an expat living here, you know what Im talking about =). I mean, shouldn't the slow drivers be on the right and the fast drivers lon the left? At least that is how it is where I'm from =). Food temperatures, restrooms, customer service, and how long I have to stay in line to use the ATM are among many challenges and differences. I'll get more on this on a video soon, but as an expat, we all have to understand that we are all guests here. This is not our country, so we have to respect the people, the culture, the differences (no matter how difficult if can be) and understand that this is not the USA or the home that we came from. It is a privilege to be here, so I try my very best to remember that =) 

HOW I EARN INCOME

Like most expats, some are living off of their retirement. Some are actually working with a company from back home, some work online and have their own projects going on. I myself work online, providing digital services to clients, and also do internet/affiliate marketing. I also make videos too, and still working on monetizing this venture. People don't come to the Philippines to look for work, most expats come here and spend their income made from where they came from. 

The average income for a Filipino is about 500 php, that's only $10 USD per day, and with this pandemic going on, the amount of days they can work are cut in half or less. Most expats that come here are living off of their retirement (repeat ha ha), work for a company that is based from where they are from, or like I mentioned before, work online and get paid in US/Euros. I am not technically retired here, but you can actually retire here with a retirement visa as early as 35 years of age. With this visa, you can be a permanent resident, own a condo, and even start a business. 

BEING FILIPINO AMERICAN

I wanted to bring this back up again because like I mentioned before, I do have a little bit of an advantage in the fact that I look just like a local. I can understand about 80% of the language because I grew up hearing my parents talk. It is those two things that give me the advantage to not get ripped off as an expat or tourist here in the Philippines =) Yes, there is a local price and a tourist price =). 

But the reality is that, I am still an expat and not a local. I cannot speak the language which can be a struggle sometimes when I need to get something done, or go somewhere and my fiancé is not with me. The good thing is that most of the country is English speaking, but this is only in most metropolitan cities. If you go to many places away from the city and into the province, things can get challenging, but still doable. The one thing that you can come to expect is that the filipino people are the nicest people on earth. If they know that you are a foreigner, more than likely they will be very kind and help you. This brings me to my side of the coin, because I do not look like a foreigner, sometimes I get treated like dirt because they think that I am just like one of them, which is sad sometimes to see how the locals treat each other, I feel it as a filipino. I do see how some of the filipinos treat the foreigners as opposed to a local (it is rare, but I do see it). So in many circumstances, I sometimes expose my voice so that they can see that I am not from here. This is one small challenge as a Filipino American Expat. 

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The one thing that I would like to see more is people like me (Filipino American Expats) coming here and learning their own culture, and giving back to the people. It's great to see the everyday expat doing these things, and it's great for the country, but I'd like to see more filipinos helping filipinos. 

There is a huge income gap in the Philippines, for the most part, you are either rich or poor. There really isn't a middle ground. I mean there is, but not much. So when expats come to the Philippines and help the economy, it is a good thing. (Most filipinos think that if you are a foreigner that you have money, because in their eyes, if you have more than them, you must be rich). 

You rarely hear or see Filipino Americans coming here to live and help the community like the other expats, or it's just not as known, or glamorized on youtube. My goal isn't really to change this, but I would like to hopefully encourage more filipinos and filipino americans/filipino europeans to join the goodness that these other expats are doing in the Philippines. I am definitely proud to be a Filipino, and also very proud to be an American, but the bottom line is that I am rooted as a Filipino, and I feel that this is where I belong, and I would love to see more Filipino American Expats here. 

The funny thing is that the western expats want to come to the east, but the people in the east prefer to go to the west. We as humans always want something different. This isn't always the case, but this is what I have seen and heard from the locals here. Everyone just wants to have a better life, and the expats coming here are seen as an opportunity for a better future. We as expats come here for a different life than our own western culture, and so this is the amazing thing about the Philippines, the country as a whole are very welcoming to foreigners. 

I will say that I am lucky to find a partner who loves her own country, and doesn't see me as a way out, and that was my main thing. I knew that this was going on in the Philippines where women are on the constant prowl to find a foreigner, and I didn't want to be seen as an OPPORTUNITY. Luckily, my partner and I prefer living in the Philippines. 

LAST WORDS

The Philippines is currently my new home, and although I cannot foretell the future, I only see this place as where I need and want to be. Although I am a world traveler (and love to see places) and American born, the Philippines will always be my fortress. Stay tuned for more Filipino American Expat Life videos to come =) 

THIS IS BUHI CAMARINES SUR

So I know that I haven't posted in awhile, but guys I assure you that I have been mega busy with some really exciting projects, and ramping up my fitness back to where it once was =)

At any rate, I had some spare time to put a quick video of Buhi Camarines Sur in Bicol Philippines. This is the place where my fiancé and my daughter Penelope was born. This place is absolutely amazing, and gives you an idea of how the real Philippines is really like....simple, with traditions still passed down from family to family.

Some of my latest projects have been documenting the distribution

of school supplies on video from friends in the USA to the kids in the Philippines

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*All donations are documented and put on film for public viewing! =) 

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If there was a place for me to build a home, I would like to build one here, and maybe one day this will happen. I just hope that the internet gets better because that is one downfall to the place for people like me who work online to make a living. Anyways, I just wanted to share this video with you, enjoy! =)

THIS IS BUHI

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Life in Cavite Philippines during the pandemic is going on almost 4 months now, and although the positive is that we are able to spend some really quality family time together, we are missing our travel adventures. It would be nice to be able to explore more of the Philippines right now, but at the moment, it is not recommended that we leave our own province, so we are staying put and just being safe. What we do have a lot of time to do is swimming. I purchased a portable pool a couple months ago, and it has been a blessing! And being in the Philippines, it can get really hot, even inside our home! So here's another quick video of us swimming and just enjoying our family time during the pandemic. Btw, our baby Pippa has been learning how to swim on her own, it's so awesome to see her dive and do things that you don't see a typical one year old to do in a pool. She may be a swimmer or surfer in the future, lets see what the future holds for her =)

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Pool Time with the Family

Anyways, thanks for visiting my blog! I'll try to post more, but until then, please be safe my friends, and stay healthy, hope to see you all soon!

Pool Time!

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My TO DO LIST Post-Lockdown

I remember one of the first things that I learned about GOAL SETTING was, "If you don't write it down, there is a slim chance that it will happen", hence the purpose for this post! =) Have you heard of this? Do you agree?

Currently based in the Philippines, we have been on a mandatory lockdown since March 14th, I can't believe that it's been that long! I totally understand the premise behind the strict rules, and if it can keep my family safe, I will most definitely listen to the EXPERTS! With that aside, I also feel that things are piling up on my TO DO LIST, and with my personality-type being very "picky" and organized, I am just getting a bit ance. =)

With that being said, I've already been thinking about all the things that need to be done post-lockdown. Some of the details on the list are things that have been delayed due to the Coronavirus Outbreak, so I'll be starting with those things first. Do you think it's a good idea to create a list for this sort of thing? =) Have you already done this?

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I posted a quick list on my facebook page about a week ago, so this is just a more detailed version. Hope you don't get too bored! Here goes:

1.  Extend my Visa - According to the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines, all foreign nationals (like me) who were here when the lockdown started and could not leave, all fines and penalties will be waived granted that you are qualified within the said dates during the lockdown. Anyways, I have 30 days after they have lifted the lockdown to pay for my visa extension for a few months (Since April). After 30 days, fines and penalties will be implemented.

2.  Visit Bicol Philippines - After I have taken care of my Visa Extension fees, I will be going to Bicol Philippines. As most of you know, this is where my fiancé Arlene and our daughter Penelope is from. We plan to visit and make sure that Arlene's family is ok. Another reason is to help Arlene's niece prepare for high school. She normally walks to her elementary school, but her high school is much further, and from my understanding, her father is not in a place where he is able to pay for the transport costs to her school on a weekly basis. Arlene and I decided that we will purchase a bicycle for her, as well as take on the responsibility of helping her with some transport costs when biking to school is not an option due to weather etc. I would like to add that Arlene's niece is super smart, and it would be a waste if she is not able to further her education. There are a lot of children in the Philippines in this situation whereas the parents cannot afford their education and the costs that come with it, so the kids end up quitting school and working for pennies. The children go on and never reach their full potential and live in poverty for the rest of their lives, its a vicious cycle. Now I know that I cannot help everyone, but I also know that everyone can help one person, and this is how making an impact works. I see a lot of potential in Arlene's niece, and hope my decisions will ultimately help her family with a better future.

3.  Go back to the USA - Since the lockdown the economy has gone to crap. People have been struggling, businesses have gone bankrupt, and unfortunately many people have died. Almost everyone has been affected one way or the other due to this Coronavirus Outbreak, including myself. My purpose for going back to the USA is first, see my family, and secondly, work on some projects that I have missed due to the lockdown. I won't go into detail on my projects but most will be video projects. I plan to spend roughly a little over a month in the USA before heading back to the Philippines.

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4.  OCRTUBE.com - This basically is connected with my trip to the USA, but since the lockdown, I have missed many global opportunities for filming video projects for my OCRTUBE.com initiative. There have been many companies that I've worked with who have cancelled a lot of their events in 2020 because of this crisis, so the goal is to reconnect with some of the companies and see what I can do to help them get back on their feet with my video production services. This is a scary part for me as most of these events bring together masses of people together which would be impossible to follow any form of social distancing, so I will have to play this by ear, and take only projects that I feel is safe for me and my family. I may have to focus on one-on-one projects such as single athlete documentaries etc. for the time being.

5.  New Youtube Channel - I won't go into specifics on this one, but I have been in the works of a new and EXCITING youtube channel that will focus on travel exploration and giving back (two things that have been a huge priority since day one). Some of you know about my other channel "Lagalag Mafia", which focuses on my family stuff. Yes, I will continue uploading on that channel but it will not be as active on a weekly basis. The Lagalag Mafia channel was always more of a personal channel, so this new channel will be more business-focused, and not specific to my family endeavors (although my family will be with me anyways). Videos on this new channel will be uploaded multiple times per week. I plan to spend most of my time post-lockdown building this channel, so this will be my biggest project in 2020. More to come =)

My main Camera I use

6.  Arlene and Baby Pippa - Another huge priority is to start working on the paperwork to eventually bring my fiancé and daughter Penelope (we call her Pippa) to the USA. The main reason for this is for Arlene to meet the rest of my family, and for my family to finally meet Baby Pippa. But the biggest and most exciting part about all of this is to have a family reunion with two of my daughters (Lauren and Penelope) together (for the FIRST TIME) along with Arlene and I. This will be like a DREAM COME TRUE for me. This will definitely be the HIGHLIGHT of the year, and the time when you will see me really cry like a baby!

7.  Help One Person Per Month Start an Online Business - Although this is nothing new to me since I've been doing this for over 10 years now, I plan to continue doing this as a way of giving back, but on the NEXT LEVEL.  Not everyone can handle the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur, so I plan to really focus on only the serious people who qualify to a certain criteria that I have created. The reality is, I am very busy as is everyone else. My family is my number one, so I would like to spend as much time with them as possible, which means that if someone is just BS'ing me about wanting to become an entrepreneur, but not willing to do the work, it's just a huge waste of time for me. I have accumulated a lot of wisdom and online business strategies during the years, so I would like to help others get out of the rut that I was once in. If you are reading this, and you would like a new fresh start without all the BS, then feel free to message me, and let's test the waters! Join my inner-circle, message me directly here.

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8.  Stay healthy - This is easier said than done. We all would like to be happy, healthy and fit, but it does take some effort. And with the wrong people in your life, this will be even more of a struggle. It has always been about surrounding myself with the right people who support my vision, so with that....I have created a number of online groups for me to stay even more connected with like-minded people like me. You know what they say, "You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with". These are the people who will shape your future. How do you keep it simple? I recommend spending time with people who are smarter than you, have more money than you, people who challenge you and only want the best for you. This is a big part of my life, as if I am not challenged, I cannot get better. Do you agree? Would you like to be more happy, more healthy, and have more financial success? Me too! =)

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So that's it my friends! Of course there are more things in between, but I don't want to bore you ha ha. If you would like to share your list with me, feel free to message me or connect with me on facebook. Looking forward to seeing you all soon, somewhere around the world!

Arnel & Family =)