Exploring life in the countryside
Decades ago, moving to Metro Manila was the ultimate dream for many. The nation’s largest metropolis lured many with its exciting tales of opportunities, adventures, and wealth.
Today, many families are instead moving out of Metro Manila—a movement that became more apparent during the pandemic. While Metro Manila remains the country’s urban center, something has certainly changed over the years to lead to this unexpected emigration.
What could be driving families to move toward the provinces? Perhaps, the answer lies not in what Metro Manila is lacking, but rather in the continued development seen in emerging destinations.
Places like Cavite, Pampanga, Laguna, Bacolod, Cebu, and Davao are enticing Filipinos to go back to the provinces and explore rising opportunities. Suddenly, the countryside is starting to captivate new families with its developing economic hubs, tourism sectors and low living costs.
Today, let us explore the allure of areas outside Metro Manila. While the nation’s center remains a vibrant place, there’s no denying that other places in the Philippines also offer unique experiences and opportunities worth exploring.
Start living for less
Personally, I can attest that living outside Metro Manila significantly lowers one’s cost of living.
Born and raised in Metro Manila, I chose to relocate and raise my family in the Bicol Region during the height of the pandemic.
While my family had to forego some modern conveniences, the move helped us save a lot in terms of our lifestyle. Our electricity bill was slashed in half especially when we adapted to the region and started using solar panels for our power requirements. The grocery bill was also reduced as fresh, healthy, and affordable food products became more accessible to us than in Metro Manila.
Finally, I would say that we were able to bond more as a family because trips to beaches, resorts, and other destinations became more frequent as these were near our home.
While there are some things you would have to give up by relocating to the province, there are also many new opportunities, benefits, and joys that you can gain that make the sacrifice all worth it.
No need to compromise
Many developing cities and provinces in the country today can rival Metro Manila in terms of internet provisions and infrastructure developments.
While there is certainly room for improvement in some areas, the idea of having business process outsourcing (BPO) firms establish their operations outside Metro Manila is no longer a strange concept. Places like Cebu, Bacolod, Pampanga, and Cavite are gradually becoming strong economic hubs with exceptional offerings in terms of commerce, employment and lifestyle.
While you may miss some offerings found in Metro Manila, you might discover that similar conveniences are also available and often cost less in developing cities.
You don’t have to give up some simple pleasures just
because you live in the countryside. Explore your options before you make your move and you just might discover that only a few changes need to be made when it comes to your lifestyle.
Find joy in simple things
While others seek to retain the material comforts they enjoyed in the metropolis, there are those who venture to the provinces hoping for a life of peace and solitude.
With the Philippines’ wide array of beaches, mountains, and other natural beauties, you’ll be able to rediscover Mother Earth in the countryside. Even for those who have to work on the weekdays, visiting natural destinations would be a breeze as they are closer to travel to if you’re based in a nearby town.
Whether you’re a retiree looking to enjoy your golden years or a young family hoping to integrate nature into your child’s development, nature would be within your reach in the provinces.
Even if you don’t like to travel a lot, the availability of fresh produce, healthy products and the natural breeze can contribute a lot to your mental and physical wellness. The countryside can totally change your mindset and improve your life for the better.
Make the move now
Offering numerous work opportunities, travel destinations, and health benefits, developing provinces outside Metro Manila can provide many rewards that make relocation worthwhile.
It’s no surprise why people are starting to leave the metropolis to start anew in the countryside.
If you want to become part of the movement, think about your priorities and explore your options before making the big move. At the end of the day, what matters is that you’ll be able to live your life to the fullest, finding joy in the things that you love most.
Photo sources: Ian Gabaraev, Pineapple Supply Co. mark chaves, and Tiana via pexels.com
