Most expats have at least one maid. Domestic help is generally very good and the cost is very affordable. It is rare in Manila to find someone who does not speak English. Signs, including road signs and those for stores, are in English. International Herald Tribune and USA Today are available for home subscription.
Cable TV is available from several competing companies.
Internet services, including dial-up service and DSL, are available. There is a very active expat community, with lots of organized social activities, through various national women's and business clubs. Opportunities range from formal balls to American style barbecues with country line dancing. No Census figures exist for US citizens overseas. US Consular Services reports 105,000 Americans in Philippines.