Thanks, everyone. The advice has been solid. I wouldn't have any place to turn otherwise. Friends would think I've gone bonkers if I told them this story.
About S, she lives with her daughter, mom and brother. There are numerous relatives about and she seems to know everybody. She isn't working right now. She left her job not long after we met, which I'm not unhappy about. (I won't elaborate.)
So, of course, she needs money. But what I find bothersome are the few instances in which motives were at best disingenous. For example, auntie needs 500 pesos; she'll pay you back tomorrow. When tomorrow comes, no mention of the 500 pesos. Then, the next day, I hear Auntie used the money to buy asthma medicine for brother, etc. If someone needs medicine, they could simply say so. Is this sort of mini-scam a way of saving face? Little instances like this have a cumulative effect of breeding mistrust.
I've taken on a lot with S. I'm going back down there at the end of this month to see her for four days. I have both to keep a little faith and my mouth shut for a while. I'm willing to work at this and give it some time. If it does work, I'd consider a move to Philippines.
And yes, good luck, PeterB and your soon-to-be wife!
