Personal Finance

retirement-planning

The Real Cost of Waiting: How to Retire Smarter with the Time Value of Money

Be honest. When you hear the word “retirement,” what pops into your head? Maybe you think it’s for older people. Maybe you tell yourself, “I’ll think about that once I’m earning more.” Right now, you’re focused on the present — working hard, paying bills, helping your family, maybe even just trying to stay afloat. And […]

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tvm

Should You Pay in Cash or Installment? How the Time Value of Money Affects Your Everyday Spending

You’re at the appliance store, finally ready to buy that washing machine you’ve been saving up for. The staff smiles and tells you: “Ma’am, same price po kahit installment — 0% interest for 12 months!” You pause. Should you pay the full price now, or go for the “easy” installment plan? At first, it feels

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sandwich-generation

The Financial Struggles of the Sandwich Generation (And How to Survive It Without Losing Yourself)

They say family is everything. But when you’re caught between raising your kids and supporting your aging parents, sometimes it feels like you’re everything to everyone—except yourself. Welcome to the world of the sandwich generation. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, tired, and financially stretched, you’re not alone. Many Filipino adults today, especially those in their 30s

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financial-struggles

How Straw Unmasks the Financial Fragility We Don’t Talk About

Some breakdowns don’t happen all at once. They build up, quietly, until one day—you snap. That’s the haunting reality behind Straw, a powerful Netflix film that doesn’t just show a woman’s descent into crisis—it reveals the invisible weight many of us carry daily. The kind we don’t post about. The kind that says, “I’m okay,”

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the silence around money

The Silence Around Money: Why It’s So Hard to Talk About Finances with Family

Money is one of the most important things in life, and yet, we often treat it like a secret. I’ve been a personal finance advocate for years. I’ve talked to couples, parents, young professionals, even retirees about their finances. But one thing that never fails to surprise me? How deeply uncomfortable most people feel when

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pokwang-staycation-scam

Pokwang’s Fake Staycation Scam: Don’t Let This Happen to You!

Imagine booking a staycation that looks perfect in photos. The pool, the modern interiors, the relaxing ambiance—it’s exactly what you need after a stressful week. You send the down payment, pack your bags, and drive to the location, only to find out… you’ve been scammed. Now imagine how frustrating it would be if the “resort”

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how to make the most of your pay raise or salary increase

More Money, More Problems? Smart Ways to Manage Your Extra Income

“Tumaas nga ang sweldo, pero bakit parang wala pa ring ipon?” Sound familiar? Many Filipinos experience salary increases or receive more remittances from loved ones abroad, yet still struggle financially. More income should mean less stress, right? Not always! In fact, if we’re not careful, having extra money can lead to bigger spending, more debt,

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rfp review

My Journey to Becoming a Registered Financial Planner (RFP)

From Dream to Reality For years, I dreamed of becoming a Registered Financial Planner (RFP). It wasn’t just about adding the prestigious RFP® designation to my name—it was about deepening my knowledge, sharpening my expertise, and equipping myself with the right skills to help others take control of their finances. This journey wasn’t easy. It

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best financial advisor philippines

Financial Planner, Advisor, Coach: Which One Do You Actually Need?

Choosing the right financial professional can feel confusing, especially when you’re unsure who does what. Do you need a financial planner, a financial advisor, or a financial coach? Each has a unique role, and knowing their differences will help you decide who’s the best fit for your needs. Let me share what I’ve learned from

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