Where can toiletries be bought?

Most toiletries can be bought in Subic Bay or Olongapo (i.e. toothpaste, soap, shampoo).  For specifics, its best to order online through drugstore.com.  Items such as Neosporin Plus or Calamine are easiest found over the internet.  Online works well because it comes right to a personal mailbox in the airport, though it takes about two weeks.

Are "American" groceries available in Subic Bay?

Yes, but not as extensively as one might wish.  There is a large grocery store a couple miles Binictican Housing, called Royal Subic, with another just next door to it, and they provides most staple and dry items.  Vegetables, fruits, and some meat (all chicken and pork) can be bought at the large open-air public market in Olongapo.  Those items can be bought straight from a vendor (with good quality and at low cost). 

How scattered are the FedEx people?

The majority live in Binictican.  A few families live in Cubi, and some live in Kalayaan. 

Should cell phones be brought?

Most people have cell phones in the Philippines.  Cell phones in can be bought in the Philippines for as cheap as $60 US.  Instead of paying for the service monthly, phone cards can be bought and loaded when necessary.

Should a telephone and answering machine be brought?

Yes.  The houses inside Subic Bay are all built for 110-volt appliances.  Extensive selections of appliances are found most in Taiwan.  Most all appliances in the Philippines are 220-volt.