Been here 31 years, i can tell you no matter how modern or civilised a place looks in the Philippines, the people are still tribal. For your longevity its critical that you keep a low profile and becareful of your wifes family if you truly have any sort of wealth. The guy who got shot in the leg has as much chance of being alive as i have landing on the moon.
So true. I've been here 35yrs, the majority of crime goes unmentioned, most expats have no idea what really goes on here. Everyone needs to be careful, never let your guard down
I lived in the PI for 7 years in the 80's. Even then, there were travel advisories from the State Department warning Americans not to travel in that area. I had a steady girlfriend for 3 years that was from that area (Zamboanga, Mindanao) and there was no way I'd travel there. There are over 7000 other safer islands to visit/live. I also wouldn't go to skid row in LA, South Chicago, Detroit, San Francisco or any of the hotspots for crime in America. Would this incident deter me from visiting the PI?... Absolutely not
@@jamesrecknor6752 I worked as a civilian contractor at one of the small bases on Luzon in the 80's. In 1988 (I think), there was a rash of carjackings in the vicinity of Clark (Angeles City) and Subic (Olongapo). In fact one American was killed North of Subic when he resisted, after he was pulled over. A warning against travel between Clark and Subic was put out and Military were restricted travel. (But I was a DOD civilian, not military). I worked 12 hours every day, 7 days a week and about every 3 months, we could take 3 days off, which I had requested just prior to the travel restrictions. Like an idiot, I ignored the warning and drove to Clark to do some shopping. Sure enough, halfway between Subic and Clark, 2 guys tried to pull me over and one held up a gun. Immediately I decided to outrun them as I had a pretty fast car and if they did get me pulled over, I'd toss my wallet and keys to them and run. Anyway, they are chasing me down the National Highway for a couple miles weaving in and out of traffic, until I saw 2 Victory Liner buses going opposite ways. I timed my pass of the one going my way so that the carjackers could not make the pass. They almost had a head on with the bus while I sped away and I never saw them again. Anyway, I got away with my stupid move and the shopping trip that I really did not have to take. Moral of the story, travel restrictions are there for a reason. You are risking your life when you ignore them. Thank God I got away with my bravado and stupidity.
Plus he was a TH-camr. If your a foreigner, never do social media if you live in Mindanao, you won't get the protection that you need. And they have season spotters, who will send your info to the terrorist and by midnight your head is gonna roll. Sorry, just a warning!!
Hey Calvin my friend, you are spot on brother. I'm hoping that the FBI can find this young man and get back to safety. Thank you for sharing this update brother 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾.
I have been in the Philippines for the last year or so. Before I came here, I did my due diligence and decided to not go further south than Davao. Currently, I am in the Central Luzon area and its a really safe area here, however, I still keep my head on a swivel. No area is perfect.
They took him from Zamboanga to Basilan Island. Not only are the FBI agents involved, but the Philippines police and local anti-terrorist group known as "Hukbo ng Diyos" could also participate in his rescue
Saying Zamboanga is not right as that's not a place. He was in Zamboanga Del Norte which is a province. I live in Zamboanga City which is a city and a different place, in the province of Zamboanga Del Sur. Sibuco is a small town in a heavily Muslim area in the jungle by the sea. He put himself in as much danger as a person can.
That's not a problem here, it's everywhere. He just smeared himself all over social media like most foreigners, they need to watch their backs. IT's not American guys! He should have built an army or security team around him to protect his family and himself. Oh, yes terrorist love You Tube and they are watching.
I'm a Philippine citizen and I recommend foreigners to learn surveillance detection. Since most likely if some malicious actors are going to kidnap someone, they're going to be gathering information about them first. So being able to detect when you're being watched will definitely help.
And don't go to the areas you shouldn't be it's the same in the usa my friend if you came to my home state of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and I told you don't go to these spots and you still did that's on you for not listening to what the locals or governments said I don't feel bad sorry I'm from the hood people get shot day and night here nothing new I felt super safe when I was in philippines last month vloging and traveling Manila Makati BGC cebu even worse thing that happened in cebu was a 5.0 earthquake at the kandanay resort cebu way up north province was safe to there I would say province in cebu felt safer then the city of cebu
This guy put himself out there. He should have just kept his business to himself. He wanted to look like a big shot here in the Philippines and it backfired on him. Lets see where this goes from here.
Living in the red zone are, doing the 5/6 loans and talking about on his TH-cam channel, filming his Muslim wife and show questionable behaviour that I’m sure it’s not approved by locals. So many red flags. I hope he can get out of this situation, if he still alive.
@@TheToni1976 i was thinking the same thing, many red flags, also his character was not good. Maybe was a mix of everything and later decide for the kidnapping
I don't go to western Mindanao, I don't have TH-cam channel , don't draw attention to myself . I retired in cebu and have never have any problems ,,,I do live in a sub division. I been here about a year ,,,never have any problems ,,,just relax . I play a lot chess etc I'm not a drinker , never go bars etc I'm 62 and retired .
100% correct. Admirable advice in any country including country of origin. Head down, dont drink in seedy bars, dont stay out late and just be cool. Im in Gensan and two members of the church I attend used to live in western part South Cotabato and had to leave due to the muslim issues. Im two years in Gensan and absolutely no issues. God bless.
Your hearing fake news...the us government FBI or any capacity does not get involved in searching for any American nationals that are kidnapped anywhere especially in southeast Asia. I live in the Philippines and a US veteran retired..foreigners need to do their homework before moving to or traveling around certain parts of the Philippines...mainly western Mindanao. Travel at your own risk and don't carry lots of pesos on you and never tell your wife's kinfolk or friends your business..it could cost you your life...never get life insurance on yourself also. Travel tight Travel light.
Here's your fake news. I'm just stating facts. www.rappler.com/philippines/mindanao/fbi-agents-arrive-zamboanga-del-norte-american-elliot-eastman-abduction/
They're not joining the hunt,since they don't squat about the region or tribal customs of the area,more than likely those units of battle hardened Scout Rangers and Philippine Marines that were veterans "Battle of Marawi""are already in pursuit.
I hope the young man will be released soon. That being said expats may want to stay clear of Mindanao. Plenty of other locations in The Philippines to set up shop.
@@garyt7232 Remember Mindanao is large enough to be a small country so its not all of Mindanao just small pockets area that you need to be careful of however, Davao city in Mindanao is name the safest city in all of the Philippines and second in S E Asia. If you live in Manila you're in a dangerous city. Your changes of being robb or killed is very hight. 10 times higher than Davao city Mindanao.
@@kiwioffgrid2437 Things are changing all over the world. You can always live in the US or south America or war tortured countries like Palestine and Israel where babies and old people are dying or in Cuba with no electricity in the whole country right now think of the night time violence going on there. People die violent death every day dead is dead no matter. When you look at the bigger picture you should be thankful for what you got.
Davao is very safe . I have a house there too . I’m from Portland , Oregon . My partner is 6’7 so it’s obvious always stay in Davao 3-4 months for years
Elliot operates a loanshark or 5-6 as we call them here in the Philippines. He brags and flaunt how much money he makes on interest in his vlog. mind you this is located in a very remote and poorest area of the Philippines. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.
His young and from Vermont, (an ignorant country boy) he was out if his league obviously. He should have built an army to protect him like SCARFACE and have 24 hrs security with all that money. He left himself short.
Keep the "Hood Code" going when you come over here...For our Euro-brothers that means don't FLASH your money or weath in any way (TO ANYBODY). Great advice in this video as always Calvin. Thank you...Please people stay out of the FAFO side of the game...Stay safe and stay aware at all times.
Always the streets are always watching and living in the hood or gov housing we all know there's just some ish you just don't do foreign or domestic period
Yup. You are always being watched in good neighborhood or bad here. We all just stand out, white black brown purple blue, don’t matter. We are noticed.
This was the most Family filled video. I believe I’ve ever seen of yours. 😂 I appreciate your message hopefully it gets to others. People act like kidnapping and crime don’t happen in their own backyards but also if you go to a area that we all have heard is a red area especially to someone who sticks out is a play stupid games when stupid prizes move.
Lol your dum in every country in the world they here you speak they say American only the western world see color look at the people in Mexico what 2 years ago Mexico said we have 4 Americans miss usa news pick it up and said we got for 4 black people missing lol Mexico said Americans we say black or white
Calvin, I've been coming to Mindanao for over 30 years. I would never go the region where Elliot went. Diplog is fine. This guy was naive. He was doing the 5/6 loans which are 20% interest. How could any expat have the audacity to take advantage of poor Filipino people financially is just insane. Looks like they were going to do a kidnap for ransom but he may have died after the leg wound. If they just wanted him dead they would have just g unned him down and left. Another option is they took him to sell him to another terrorist group for propaganda later. Whats really heartbreaking is his parents. They were active in his life and per FB post they communicated with his wife as well and were all planning to bring her to USA. Thanks for the update
I think it should be automatic bringing your wife or husband to the States once you get married. I don't think the government should make Americans and their families go through the immigration process.
Don't know if it is still the same in Mactan & Cebu but many of the 5/6 loans were run by Indians about 11 years ago. But I agree he should have put his brain in to gear before starting to try and make money out of the locals
@@JackDutch-b2n Well up until this refugee southern border crisis the government was doing vetting of immigrants and non-immigrants to the USA.This included Fiancees and Foreign spouses. This is a required process to filter those coming here for nefarious reasons, scammers, terrorist etc. Should the process be faster ? YES
keep safe western tourists Americans, Canadians , Australians , British in traveling to Mindanao area i pray for the recovery and safety of the american 🇺🇸
If you go to a place that literally considers electricity a luxury and open a shop live streaming bragging about making 5x locals salary while on top of all that borrowing money from loan sharks what do u think will happen?....this is what ppl is the area have been leaking
@@Calichris2 honestly nope. Government has strong regulations on what can be sold at xyz price. Food, gas, travel all same as 2019. Yes higher since say 2012 due to currency value if exchanging. Look it up Vietnam is the cheapest country in Asia.
I would also had be aware of current events. The war in Gaza is making emotions run high where western travelers are bigger targets in certain places globally.
To the naive who think having a firearm here would protect them: Reportedly, there were 4 guys posing as police with M16s. Your false sense of security would've just given them another gun.
Foreigners are not permitted to have a firearm under ANY circumstances in the Philippines. They are not even allowed to operate them in an official shooting-range.
spent good part of the last 30yrs here in SEAsia. Foreigners/Americans need to realize they have virtually no rights over here and so always need to be careful. In general, the Philippines other than the South is a bit safer.
I def have a different feeling in the province. I'm much more alert and on guard. There's so much poverty there. You have to be smart enough to know that at any moment one of those poverty stricken guys might feel like he has to do something drastic in order to feed his family. I was very scared about having too much money in my wallet. I never had more than 10k just to feel better about getting robbed. Now I live just outside of the city in a gated subdivision where the Filipinos here have more money than me. And the surrounding Filipinos live off of the work we give them and the money we spend at their stores. So they need us to feed their families. Much less likely to kill or rob one of us. I learned to find a network of locals that like me and treat me as one of their own. I respect them and treat them with kindness and they do the same to me. I also learned when i ride my motorcycle to wear long sleeve shirt and pants and gloves and neck coverings to blend in. I don't want to be a target. All the stores i go to i can read them and tell they like me and when I go to a store and feel like they don't like me or I get a weird vibe i do not return to that store. You don't need to speak their language in order to read them by their body language, facial expressions and whatnot.
To help you blend in better, where baggy Filipino basketball shorts and tank top with the name on the back "DelaCruz" its one of the popular last name here. LOL
Dont be a fool in the phils. Stay humble and spend frugally . Dont brag or be showing off . I felt safe in cebu, i felt safer then center city philladelphia pa. When the street lights go on be home . It pays not to argue or make natives. Loose face. Bloggers who advertise kinky tourism instead of normal blogs can be a target. Dont go out alone etc... Awesome job calvin .
My understanding is Mindanao is completely off limits according to the United States. However, Davao city where I spent most of my time is considered one of the most safe places in the Philippines. I do know that my girlfriend told me not to go into the market across the street from my condo association without somebody else. I've been through there with her. It's very cool in there, but apparently Muslim uprising is a concern. My thoughts on this kid not knowing anything about him that was In Zamboanga, I suspect he married a Muslim lady which I've been told maybe he did not convert to Islam or maybe some of the Muslim folks did not like that and I think that's why he's gone. My guess. They're not looking for a ransom. They didn't want him marrying one of their own. But who knows.
I watched a lot of his “shorts” and good amount of his long-form video. Elliott was 25-26 but looks more like 18-21 which didn’t help. His facial-affect is “closed” meaning he doesn’t exude warmth or welcoming emotion in telegenic terms. He appears completely solipsistic, brooding and/or self-absorbed (the camera is always on his face usually from an upward angle so appears he is always looking down on you. He is entirely emotionally distant even from his wife; and btw she doesn’t appear Pina-In-love at all! Their “chemistry” looks n feels more like a date than a wife. If you look closely he is always appealing for her attention (like in the West) when the one Fact we know is that Filipinas are effusive & profuse in showings of affection-the shy giggles,the lowered gaze, the adoring gaze, the physical-clinging to her man’s side--none of that is present in any of this video. Then in another video he is flexing his money through showing all the gadgetry he is purchasing; then he shows his posh bucolic neighborhood in Vermont or at least in the United States; then he brags about how much money he is making being “loan shark” to his impoverished neighbors. Did you notice the cold flat faces Filipinos were giving him on camera!!??? In The Land Smiles??? (Yes I know it’s Thailand but it’s generally more true of the Philippines than Thailand). He didn’t appear to be liked and was perhaps grew in resentment. Lots of rookie childish mistakes….but having said all that No One deserved what has happened to him and my heart goes out to his family; still praying against all odds for his safe rescue or return!
Unless you plan to convert to becoming Muslim, stay away from marrying Muslim women in the Philippines, it is not allowed religiously. Also the whole loan thing is also a no no. This poor naive boy got himself into totally avoidable situation. I hope he is brought back safe and sound soon.
That's sad situation for the guy and his family don't nobody deserve to get kidnap I don't care what country you in i sending my prayers to his family just imagine how they feel about situation you trying to have a life and end up get your life taken from some no good ass people that hate the life you living for yourself PRAYERS UP FOR THAT YOUNG BROTHER AND GOD BLESS US ALL IN JESUS CHRIST NAME THE FATHER THE SON AND THE HOLY GHOST AMEN 🙏 ❤️ 🙏
If some of the reports are accurate, Eastman was being very flashy and bragging about his money. There is a lot more to the back story: He came there to find the woman that scammed him online. Then he married another woman. He stated on his channel, that he found his wife in the Philippines and said he is lending money to a businesses to profit and earn interest. Maybe that triggered his kidnapping. Earning interest is frowned upon in some Muslim communities. One does not need to pay a dead person back...
expats from other places in the Philippines: "I've been here for 20 years, i would say it's safe for me" !d!ot expats who are openly on social media: "I'm living in the most dangerous places in the Philippines" kidnapped* foreigners who are planning to go to the Philippines: "Is the Philippines safe?" me: what the h3ll?.
True i go to the province not way down south and pinoy trike guys have said to be careful, I've noticed poverty has increased since covid in these area's.
His a country boy from Vermont. Meaning he has zero clue what he is getting into and worse, no respect of the terrorist int he area. I have a saying, if need to look over your shoulders once, you will loose your ears, if twice your head is gonna roll. LOL
Where are the list of demands, what are the demands. NOTHING. Kidnappers do not shoot the prize. This was a HIT He shamed the Muslim community and the girls family. He married the girl against the family wishes, that's why they eloped. Ether way this is a tragedy, what ever the reason, not looking good for the victim.
Research Richard Rodwell an Australian who was kidnapped in Ipil, Zamboanga Del Norte not far from this young man and was SHOT by his captors. He survived 472 days in captivity and was released after a ransom was negotiated. Thanks for watching.
@@theshadow532 haha how else, all the TH-cam videos. It just makes more sense to me. This man was not rich. He moved into an area of Extremist Muslims. I would think in their eyes he corrupted this young lady. by marrying her without the blessing of the family. He's not Muslim, he was/is and outsider. He didn't belong there. They or someone couldn't except this man and they way he acted and or where he came from. Anyway its just a gut feeling. doesn't really matter what anyone thinks. this dudes in be trouble. I hope it all works out for him
Situational awareness is important wherever you are in the world! I don't think this was done for monetary reasons. He made many mistakes and was very disrespectful to the culture he was trying to immerse himself into. This was done for cultural reasons, kidnappers don't usually shoot or injure their meal ticket.
Calvin After my first visit to my wife's tribal area in the mountains. Of Don Marcelino I hire 2 bodyguards to walk around with us in the jungle areas of her Village 500 pesos per day.
Love your videos brother I live back and forth between Honolulu on high seas tuna longline vessel and Olangapo to be with my pamilia. I thank you for videos you have been a wealth of knowledge
Not True… The Philippines just like any country in the world has bad areas. Take the trip to the philippines! just stay in safe areas. I do the same thing as Eliot Eastman(Vlogging in the philippines) and i’m in the province as well.. just know where to go and where not to go… The Philippines isn’t all a bad place! I love it there….just know your area… I guess I’m an adventure vlogger 😅
no foreigner should live in the ARMM region - period , he made a big mistake
Sibuco is not part of ARMM. Sibuco is in an area that has been known for having issues. He should not have been there in my opinion.
@davidladd5030 yes and yes, just not an area a foreigner should be living...
His vlogs he says he's aftaid, people were telling him there were plans to kidnapp him. He didnt listen to the warnings
Been here 31 years, i can tell you no matter how modern or civilised a place looks in the Philippines, the people are still tribal. For your longevity its critical that you keep a low profile and becareful of your wifes family if you truly have any sort of wealth. The guy who got shot in the leg has as much chance of being alive as i have landing on the moon.
So true. I've been here 35yrs, the majority of crime goes unmentioned, most expats have no idea what really goes on here. Everyone needs to be careful, never let your guard down
Sleeping with the enemy……..
Great comment, thanks
Most members of my wife's family have more money than I have.
@@wernerschneider4460 aren't you lucky, what's the odds??
The far south, particularly the muslim parts, is still extremely dangerous. I know Christian Filipinos that say they wont even travel there.
The man speaking the truth people should listen. 🌴🌴🌴🌴 the Philippines is awesome but caution is necessary 😎😎
Caution is also necessary in my country Austria when you walk in the dark in certain districts of the capital.
Only unsafe for foreigners in Mindanao
@@aidapuyat9823 I live here seems just fine to me tagum city/ mati city
@@wernerschneider4460 I walk the back alleys at night here alone I've never had a problem most people are quite pleasant
Caution is needed wherever you travel in the world especially if you are a foreigner in that country.
I always say if you don’t have basic common sense, you have no business traveling outside the US, which is life on easy mode for the most part.
I lived in the PI for 7 years in the 80's. Even then, there were travel advisories from the State Department warning Americans not to travel in that area. I had a steady girlfriend for 3 years that was from that area (Zamboanga, Mindanao) and there was no way I'd travel there. There are over 7000 other safer islands to visit/live.
I also wouldn't go to skid row in LA, South Chicago, Detroit, San Francisco or any of the hotspots for crime in America.
Would this incident deter me from visiting the PI?... Absolutely not
We got chased by bandits on the highway near Bislig Mindanao last month
@@jamesrecknor6752 I worked as a civilian contractor at one of the small bases on Luzon in the 80's. In 1988 (I think), there was a rash of carjackings in the vicinity of Clark (Angeles City) and Subic (Olongapo). In fact one American was killed North of Subic when he resisted, after he was pulled over. A warning against travel between Clark and Subic was put out and Military were restricted travel. (But I was a DOD civilian, not military).
I worked 12 hours every day, 7 days a week and about every 3 months, we could take 3 days off, which I had requested just prior to the travel restrictions. Like an idiot, I ignored the warning and drove to Clark to do some shopping. Sure enough, halfway between Subic and Clark, 2 guys tried to pull me over and one held up a gun. Immediately I decided to outrun them as I had a pretty fast car and if they did get me pulled over, I'd toss my wallet and keys to them and run.
Anyway, they are chasing me down the National Highway for a couple miles weaving in and out of traffic, until I saw 2 Victory Liner buses going opposite ways. I timed my pass of the one going my way so that the carjackers could not make the pass. They almost had a head on with the bus while I sped away and I never saw them again. Anyway, I got away with my stupid move and the shopping trip that I really did not have to take.
Moral of the story, travel restrictions are there for a reason. You are risking your life when you ignore them. Thank God I got away with my bravado and stupidity.
Coward. I went to spid row la yearly in 90s and 2000s nothing special. But yea some places can be scary.
I got a bad feeling about this. He may not be alive. 🙏
He was warned, he was a fool who is causing others to put their lives in danger. Probably a waste of time.
100%
Plus he was a TH-camr. If your a foreigner, never do social media if you live in Mindanao, you won't get the protection that you need. And they have season spotters, who will send your info to the terrorist and by midnight your head is gonna roll. Sorry, just a warning!!
Thanks for the advice Calvin. You’re always giving us information that matters!!
Good points Cal and spot on. Wake up people, do your own research please!
This kind of information never gets old -
My biggest concern about retiring in the Philippines is my diminished ability to defend myself with a firearm.
Iv lived here philippines for almost 5 years YOU DONT NEED A GUN PHILIPPINES IS A VERY SAFE PLACE
Maybe you can ask the Philippine authority if you are allowed to own a gun as a foreigner.
Sorry mate, it's not the wild west here. If your so concerned about using a gun, consider your life choices.
That guy is shark food by now… he prob bleed out on that boat
Chinese nationals connected to POGO got firearms with no problems. You can legally own them with an SRRV visa.
Hey Calvin my friend, you are spot on brother. I'm hoping that the FBI can find this young man and get back to safety. Thank you for sharing this update brother 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾.
I have been in the Philippines for the last year or so. Before I came here, I did my due diligence and decided to not go further south than Davao. Currently, I am in the Central Luzon area and its a really safe area here, however, I still keep my head on a swivel. No area is perfect.
Where in central Luzon are you? I live up in Tuguegarao Luzon.
@@BuzzMccabe-iu9ph around the Subic Bay area
I live in los banos now
@@BuzzMccabe-iu9ph Subic Bay area. I love it here.
You and I clashed several years ago. However, you are one of the most realistic channels on TH-cam. Great content
Thanks for the update, Calvin...Jim
They took him from Zamboanga to Basilan Island. Not only are the FBI agents involved, but the Philippines police and local anti-terrorist group known as "Hukbo ng Diyos" could also participate in his rescue
Rescue.....more like body recovery?
Hope that I'm wrong however they often kill their hostage specially when being hunted by authorities.
Saying Zamboanga is not right as that's not a place. He was in Zamboanga Del Norte which is a province. I live in Zamboanga City which is a city and a different place, in the province of Zamboanga Del Sur. Sibuco is a small town in a heavily Muslim area in the jungle by the sea. He put himself in as much danger as a person can.
A Fool, "LOST IN ASIA"
Thanks Calvin 👍
The boy had a 5-6 operation…Cal said that’s a no-no. I think this is the source of the boy’s problem.
Absolutely 5/6 is illegal in PI. I know of one 5/6 shark who was shot off his motorcycle after trying to collect.
That's not a problem here, it's everywhere. He just smeared himself all over social media like most foreigners, they need to watch their backs. IT's not American guys! He should have built an army or security team around him to protect his family and himself. Oh, yes terrorist love You Tube and they are watching.
a good one Calvin, the views are not worth your life, many times the family is involved for a cut.
Always beware of family my wife and I have owned a house for 12 years but none of her family or friends know, they all think we are renting
Mark was out of line making those comments on thinking he was involved in his own disappearance
I'm a Philippine citizen and I recommend foreigners to learn surveillance detection. Since most likely if some malicious actors are going to kidnap someone, they're going to be gathering information about them first. So being able to detect when you're being watched will definitely help.
And don't go to the areas you shouldn't be it's the same in the usa my friend if you came to my home state of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and I told you don't go to these spots and you still did that's on you for not listening to what the locals or governments said I don't feel bad sorry I'm from the hood people get shot day and night here nothing new I felt super safe when I was in philippines last month vloging and traveling Manila Makati BGC cebu even worse thing that happened in cebu was a 5.0 earthquake at the kandanay resort cebu way up north province was safe to there I would say province in cebu felt safer then the city of cebu
@@steelcitytv learn to use periods. They are designed to separate sentences. They make reading much easier. Take an English class.
@@MrEatsPhilippinesit was Ebonics, don't use periods.
Poor guy, he seemed too naive to be out there alone. Thanks for the info !
This guy put himself out there. He should have just kept his business to himself. He wanted to look like a big shot here in the Philippines and it backfired on him. Lets see where this goes from here.
Great words and it’s exactly how I act when in the Philippines. Less is better outside
Great clip cal
Thanks Eric.
Love the kids running in the background, makes the video look unscripted
It's all unscripted 💪🏾😅
@@calroach1😂
There’s a reason that area is called the red zone and why the US government says to stay away from the southern part of the Philippines.
He was doing 5/6 loans and was warned on kidnapping. He didn’t care..
What is 5/6 loans!?
@@johnnystewart83 they are loans with 20% interest rate. Think borrowing 5000, you pay back 6000
Living in the red zone are, doing the 5/6 loans and talking about on his TH-cam channel, filming his Muslim wife and show questionable behaviour that I’m sure it’s not approved by locals. So many red flags. I hope he can get out of this situation, if he still alive.
Well his choice the consequences of marry a muslim girl in Mindanao
@@TheToni1976 i was thinking the same thing, many red flags, also his character was not good. Maybe was a mix of everything and later decide for the kidnapping
I don't go to western Mindanao, I don't have TH-cam channel , don't draw attention to myself . I retired in cebu and have never have any problems ,,,I do live in a sub division. I been here about a year ,,,never have any problems ,,,just relax . I play a lot chess etc I'm not a drinker , never go bars etc I'm 62 and retired .
By commenting you've raised your head just a little....and you do have a youtube channel.
100% correct. Admirable advice in any country including country of origin. Head down, dont drink in seedy bars, dont stay out late and just be cool. Im in Gensan and two members of the church I attend used to live in western part South Cotabato and had to leave due to the muslim issues. Im two years in Gensan and absolutely no issues. God bless.
@@kiwioffgrid2437wtf, dude your a liar! You have a channel so every other comment you said is just talking bs. Nothing you say is valid or real!
Your hearing fake news...the us government FBI or any capacity does not get involved in searching for any American nationals that are kidnapped anywhere especially in southeast Asia.
I live in the Philippines and a US veteran retired..foreigners need to do their homework before moving to or traveling around certain parts of the Philippines...mainly western Mindanao.
Travel at your own risk and don't carry lots of pesos on you and never tell your wife's kinfolk or friends your business..it could cost you your life...never get life insurance on yourself also.
Travel tight Travel light.
The FBI is indeed involved, in a supporting capacity to the PNP.
Lol😂 they are not FBI! Just some embassy people trying to get info!
Not fbi, but yes America has an alphabet group to deal with international terrorism. Prob cia.
Here's your fake news. I'm just stating facts. www.rappler.com/philippines/mindanao/fbi-agents-arrive-zamboanga-del-norte-american-elliot-eastman-abduction/
They are involved this time. Take care. This is no time for BS!
Thank you so much for letting us know things can happen and not to be stupid and use our heads and be safe
Please keep us informed. Thanks.
They're not joining the hunt,since they don't squat about the region or tribal customs of the area,more than likely those units of battle hardened Scout Rangers and Philippine Marines that were veterans "Battle of Marawi""are already in pursuit.
They're assessing the situation. The USA has special or es here. Have been here for some time now.
Damn definitely will be cautious when traveling overseas.
I hope the young man will be released soon. That being said expats may want to stay clear of Mindanao. Plenty of other locations in The Philippines to set up shop.
@@garyt7232
Remember Mindanao is large enough to be a small country so its not all of Mindanao just small pockets area that you need to be careful of however, Davao city in Mindanao is name the safest city in all of the Philippines and second in S E Asia. If you live in Manila you're in a dangerous city. Your changes of being robb or killed is very hight. 10 times higher than Davao city Mindanao.
@@theshadow532I have a feeling that things are changing....
@@kiwioffgrid2437
Things are changing all over the world. You can always live in the US or south America or war tortured countries like Palestine and Israel where babies and old people are dying or in Cuba with no electricity in the whole country right now think of the night time violence going on there. People die violent death every day dead is dead no matter.
When you look at the bigger picture you should be thankful for what you got.
Well Otto Warmbier, wanted to share the spotlight on international stupidly.
Subbed. I'm living in the USA, and my Filipina wife has a home in Davao City.
Davao is very safe . I have a house there too . I’m from Portland , Oregon . My partner is 6’7 so it’s obvious always stay in Davao 3-4 months for years
Thanks for your support
There are so many people that are jealous of you, Calvin.
Says a lot about the world we're living in.
Elliot operates a loanshark or 5-6 as we call them here in the Philippines. He brags and flaunt how much money he makes on interest in his vlog. mind you this is located in a very remote and poorest area of the Philippines. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.
His young and from Vermont, (an ignorant country boy) he was out if his league obviously. He should have built an army to protect him like SCARFACE and have 24 hrs security with all that money. He left himself short.
You continue to stay safe as well my friend, regardless where you live.
Thank you for sharing
We need proof of life ☝🏽
I doubt that's coming.
Keep the "Hood Code" going when you come over here...For our Euro-brothers that means don't FLASH your money or weath in any way (TO ANYBODY). Great advice in this video as always Calvin. Thank you...Please people stay out of the FAFO side of the game...Stay safe and stay aware at all times.
Always the streets are always watching and living in the hood or gov housing we all know there's just some ish you just don't do foreign or domestic period
Yup. You are always being watched in good neighborhood or bad here. We all just stand out, white black brown purple blue, don’t matter. We are noticed.
Cal is right !!!! This is very important for any one traveling aboard ANYWHERE.
Love your openness, unlike so many of these older western men just trying to sell their TH-cam channel.
Thanks for your great advice Calvin. Keep up your great videos. 👍👍
This was the most Family filled video. I believe I’ve ever seen of yours. 😂 I appreciate your message hopefully it gets to others. People act like kidnapping and crime don’t happen in their own backyards but also if you go to a area that we all have heard is a red area especially to someone who sticks out is a play stupid games when stupid prizes move.
Thanks for the update Bro.Calvin!
Listen to “THE MAN”……it can save your life
😅
You are a good man I appreciate your vlogs
“They not like us.” Us black ppl don’t need to be warned more than once!
You making this about race ? I wish your kind just stay out of Philippines
You're silly and know nothing
Lol your dum in every country in the world they here you speak they say American only the western world see color look at the people in Mexico what 2 years ago Mexico said we have 4 Americans miss usa news pick it up and said we got for 4 black people missing lol Mexico said Americans we say black or white
Why did you have to throw black into it? I don't understand
Found the racist!
You are 1000% more at risk living on Negros than I am, who lives way up north in La Union Luzon.
Calvin, I've been coming to Mindanao for over 30 years. I would never go the region where Elliot went. Diplog is fine. This guy was naive. He was doing the 5/6 loans which are 20% interest. How could any expat have the audacity to take advantage of poor Filipino people financially is just insane. Looks like they were going to do a kidnap for ransom but he may have died after the leg wound. If they just wanted him dead they would have just g unned him down and left. Another option is they took him to sell him to another terrorist group for propaganda later. Whats really heartbreaking is his parents. They were active in his life and per FB post they communicated with his wife as well and were all planning to bring her to USA. Thanks for the update
I think it should be automatic bringing your wife or husband to the States once you get married. I don't think the government should make Americans and their families go through the immigration process.
Don't know if it is still the same in Mactan & Cebu but many of the 5/6 loans were run by Indians about 11 years ago.
But I agree he should have put his brain in to gear before starting to try and make money out of the locals
I read that in the past there was a kidnapping in Dipolog
Unless they wanted it to look like a kidnapping gone wrong?
I would begin by looking into the local who borrowed the 35000 pesos.
@@JackDutch-b2n Well up until this refugee southern border crisis the government was doing vetting of immigrants and non-immigrants to the USA.This included Fiancees and Foreign spouses. This is a required process to filter those coming here for nefarious reasons, scammers, terrorist etc. Should the process be faster ? YES
keep safe western tourists Americans, Canadians , Australians , British in traveling to Mindanao area i pray for the recovery and safety of the american 🇺🇸
If you go to a place that literally considers electricity a luxury and open a shop live streaming bragging about making 5x locals salary while on top of all that borrowing money from loan sharks what do u think will happen?....this is what ppl is the area have been leaking
Vietnam seems safer what do you think? Thanks
Of course it is... I been to 50 countries. In se Asia, Vietnam is safe test. Been here all over since 2019
If you like to live in a communist country yes. I'll as Putin.
@@sagepirotess6312 have you noticed the prices increasing?
@@Calichris2 honestly nope. Government has strong regulations on what can be sold at xyz price. Food, gas, travel all same as 2019. Yes higher since say 2012 due to currency value if exchanging. Look it up Vietnam is the cheapest country in Asia.
@@sagepirotess6312 I agree
good advice well said
Great video bro Calvin
You are so right that's for the information
I would also had be aware of current events. The war in Gaza is making emotions run high where western travelers are bigger targets in certain places globally.
Big facts!
Waste of time, money, energy and resources. That kid is a More Run. He is typical of this generation of lazy, entitled, ignorant youtubers.
To the naive who think having a firearm here would protect them: Reportedly, there were 4 guys posing as police with M16s. Your false sense of security would've just given them another gun.
Foreigners are not permitted to have a firearm under ANY circumstances in the Philippines. They are not even allowed to operate them in an official shooting-range.
Cal, this information is priceless....
I sincerely hope and pray for safety and well-being of the American Citizen you are referring to.
spent good part of the last 30yrs here in SEAsia. Foreigners/Americans need to realize they have virtually no rights over here and so always need to be careful. In general, the Philippines other than the South is a bit safer.
I def have a different feeling in the province. I'm much more alert and on guard. There's so much poverty there. You have to be smart enough to know that at any moment one of those poverty stricken guys might feel like he has to do something drastic in order to feed his family. I was very scared about having too much money in my wallet. I never had more than 10k just to feel better about getting robbed. Now I live just outside of the city in a gated subdivision where the Filipinos here have more money than me. And the surrounding Filipinos live off of the work we give them and the money we spend at their stores. So they need us to feed their families. Much less likely to kill or rob one of us. I learned to find a network of locals that like me and treat me as one of their own. I respect them and treat them with kindness and they do the same to me. I also learned when i ride my motorcycle to wear long sleeve shirt and pants and gloves and neck coverings to blend in. I don't want to be a target. All the stores i go to i can read them and tell they like me and when I go to a store and feel like they don't like me or I get a weird vibe i do not return to that store. You don't need to speak their language in order to read them by their body language, facial expressions and whatnot.
To help you blend in better, where baggy Filipino basketball shorts and tank top with the name on the back "DelaCruz" its one of the popular last name here. LOL
Dont be a fool in the phils.
Stay humble and spend frugally .
Dont brag or be showing off .
I felt safe in cebu, i felt safer then center city philladelphia pa.
When the street lights go on be home .
It pays not to argue or make natives. Loose face.
Bloggers who advertise kinky tourism instead of normal blogs can be a target.
Dont go out alone etc...
Awesome job calvin .
Keep up the great work man
My understanding is Mindanao is completely off limits according to the United States. However, Davao city where I spent most of my time is considered one of the most safe places in the Philippines. I do know that my girlfriend told me not to go into the market across the street from my condo association without somebody else. I've been through there with her. It's very cool in there, but apparently Muslim uprising is a concern.
My thoughts on this kid not knowing anything about him that was In Zamboanga, I suspect he married a Muslim lady which I've been told maybe he did not convert to Islam or maybe some of the Muslim folks did not like that and I think that's why he's gone. My guess. They're not looking for a ransom. They didn't want him marrying one of their own. But who knows.
Zamboanga is a generalization
I watched a lot of his “shorts” and good amount of his long-form video. Elliott was 25-26 but looks more like 18-21 which didn’t help. His facial-affect is “closed” meaning he doesn’t exude warmth or welcoming emotion in telegenic terms. He appears completely solipsistic, brooding and/or self-absorbed (the camera is always on his face usually from an upward angle so appears he is always looking down on you. He is entirely emotionally distant even from his wife; and btw she doesn’t appear Pina-In-love at all! Their “chemistry” looks n feels more like a date than a wife. If you look closely he is always appealing for her attention (like in the West) when the one Fact we know is that Filipinas are effusive & profuse in showings of affection-the shy giggles,the lowered gaze, the adoring gaze, the physical-clinging to her man’s side--none of that is present in any of this video. Then in another video he is flexing his money through showing all the gadgetry he is purchasing; then he shows his posh bucolic neighborhood in Vermont or at least in the United States; then he brags about how much money he is making being “loan shark” to his impoverished neighbors. Did you notice the cold flat faces Filipinos were giving him on camera!!??? In The Land Smiles??? (Yes I know it’s Thailand but it’s generally more true of the Philippines than Thailand). He didn’t appear to be liked and was perhaps grew in resentment. Lots of rookie childish mistakes….but having said all that No One deserved what has happened to him and my heart goes out to his family; still praying against all odds for his safe rescue or return!
You are highly skilled.
Is that your little girl behind you? She is precious.
Spot on. I live on my farm in bohol for 3 years drive an 026 year old car and carry/2000 wear ordinary okd clothes and slippers
Unless you plan to convert to becoming Muslim, stay away from marrying Muslim women in the Philippines, it is not allowed religiously. Also the whole loan thing is also a no no.
This poor naive boy got himself into totally avoidable situation. I hope he is brought back safe and sound soon.
Particularly if your name is "Eastman"...
Calvin, there heavy on the check points. here in my area. and I'm only a hour drive to Zamboanga del Norte.
Everyone that knows knows that area is a risk. Just like risky areas of the US. Be smart.
That's sad situation for the guy and his family don't nobody deserve to get kidnap I don't care what country you in i sending my prayers to his family just imagine how they feel about situation you trying to have a life and end up get your life taken from some no good ass people that hate the life you living for yourself PRAYERS UP FOR THAT YOUNG BROTHER AND GOD BLESS US ALL IN JESUS CHRIST NAME THE FATHER THE SON AND THE HOLY GHOST AMEN 🙏 ❤️ 🙏
Calvin, the OG.
If some of the reports are accurate, Eastman was being very flashy and bragging about his money. There is a lot more to the back story:
He came there to find the woman that scammed him online. Then he married another woman.
He stated on his channel, that he found his wife in the Philippines and said he is lending money to a businesses to profit and earn interest. Maybe that triggered his kidnapping. Earning interest is frowned upon in some Muslim communities.
One does not need to pay a dead person back...
It's a Jungle out there! Act accordingly
I been going their for years have to keep a low profile . Like anywhere else
expats from other places in the Philippines:
"I've been here for 20 years, i would say it's safe for me"
!d!ot expats who are openly on social media:
"I'm living in the most dangerous places in the Philippines"
kidnapped*
foreigners who are planning to go to the Philippines:
"Is the Philippines safe?"
me: what the h3ll?.
4:55 women don’t have the same level of safety awareness as men do. I’d never rely on a woman to keep us safe in an area, even if she’s from there.
The FBI is useless in such a case.
Adorable children
Conspicuous consumption can make you a target no matter what nationality or the country.
True i go to the province not way down south and pinoy trike guys have said to be careful, I've noticed poverty has increased since covid in these area's.
RIP Elliot
Even us filipinos are afraid to go in that area, why did he go there?
His a country boy from Vermont. Meaning he has zero clue what he is getting into and worse, no respect of the terrorist int he area. I have a saying, if need to look over your shoulders once, you will loose your ears, if twice your head is gonna roll. LOL
The guy kept saying lm in dangerous area am in a dangerous area. Well… yeah
Where are the list of demands, what are the demands. NOTHING. Kidnappers do not shoot the prize. This was a HIT He shamed the Muslim community and the girls family. He married the girl against the family wishes, that's why they eloped. Ether way this is a tragedy, what ever the reason, not looking good for the victim.
Research Richard Rodwell an Australian who was kidnapped in Ipil, Zamboanga Del Norte not far from this young man and was SHOT by his captors. He survived 472 days in captivity and was released after a ransom was negotiated. Thanks for watching.
@@retiredinthephilippines-o8q
How do you know all those details?
@@theshadow532 haha how else, all the TH-cam videos. It just makes more sense to me. This man was not rich. He moved into an area of Extremist Muslims. I would think in their eyes he corrupted this young lady. by marrying her without the blessing of the family. He's not Muslim, he was/is and outsider. He didn't belong there. They or someone couldn't except this man and they way he acted and or where he came from. Anyway its just a gut feeling. doesn't really matter what anyone thinks. this dudes in be trouble. I hope it all works out for him
@@theshadow532Because he's Calvin..
I was here when he was released.
Situational awareness is important wherever you are in the world! I don't think this was done for monetary reasons. He made many mistakes and was very disrespectful to the culture he was trying to immerse himself into. This was done for cultural reasons, kidnappers don't usually shoot or injure their meal ticket.
The Philippines is not always safe. But the red zone is the highest risk area of all the Philippines.
bgc,makati,eastwood are only safe in ph...
If the Philippines government tells you to stay out of a place, then stay the hell out. YOU CAN'T TUTOR COMMON SENSE.
Calvin After my first visit to my wife's tribal area in the mountains.
Of Don Marcelino I hire 2 bodyguards to walk around with us in the jungle areas of her
Village
500 pesos per day.
Love your videos brother I live back and forth between Honolulu on high seas tuna longline vessel and Olangapo to be with my pamilia. I thank you for videos you have been a wealth of knowledge
PNP mayroon nang composite sketch ng isa sa suspek na dumukot sa American national sa Zamboanga del Norte
I feel bad for all the people in Mindanao who worked so hard to clean up their island s reputation. This is a setback.
Not True… The Philippines just like any country in the world has bad areas. Take the trip to the philippines! just stay in safe areas. I do the same thing as Eliot Eastman(Vlogging in the philippines) and i’m in the province as well.. just know where to go and where not to go… The Philippines isn’t all a bad place! I love it there….just know your area…
I guess I’m an adventure vlogger 😅
It's true I heard what happend to us americans need to stay out of these countries