If its just you and the dog for now, then 12-14k would be more than reasonable for just the two, come here first hotel for a few days or airbnb and you will get better options/offers on the ground, (DONT COMMIT TO ANYTHING ONLINE UNTIL YOU COME HERE AND SEE FOR YOURSELF)
if you are going south of the border (down mexico way, then you will have to factor in traffic) if travelling an hour in a jeepney to buy in the supermarket or to meet friends everyday the appeal will soon wear off and it will be come a drag in the oppressive heat
and finally THINK PESO AND NOT DOLLAR....................if you plan on shelling out 20k for rent and another extra 25-35k in other little expenses it will soon rack up so plan ahead (a little sickness here and there will eat into the money here too) sickness also includes the ladies family
come here with your eyes open , pocket sewn shut and leave your 1st world mentality at the airport