Re:Philippines --> U.S. (Score 1)

That's exactly my point. Given the same work effort, there's a greater opportunity for a life that's aspired by most individuals in 3rd world countries -- a more convinient life with accessible social services.

I'll do a quick lowdown of the expenses for an average family:
0. House Mortgage (assuming you don't live with parents anymore) = P10,000-P15,000 (in a subdivision in Southern Manila -- Las Pinas, or even Cavite)
1. Private School (since PSI is not that accessible to most, and I don't want my kids to even try public education) = P20,000/hr + daily expenses + books
2. Monthly car loan payment = P10,000-P15,000
3. etc.
For a bachelor, US$600/month is well enough for gimiks in Makati and (ehem) Quezon Ave., but how about for families starting from scratch?