Hi Kiwi,
Welcome to the forum. With regard to somewhere to live in Philippines, not too hot and not too crowded, why not try some of the areas of Bukidnon that are not too far from Cagayan De Oro, because it's up in the hills so it's noticeably cooler than down in the city and the land prices are much cheaper than some of the more popular areas further north. Unfortunately it's a bit of a hike if your looking for a decent beach though.
Iain.
