Avoid Online Scams with CIMB

Online shopping has become part of our daily routine, especially here in the Philippines. In fact, a study by Statista predicts that by 2029, there will be around 31.6 million e-commerce users in the country. However, with the rise in online shopping comes a growing number of scams. The 2023 Asia Scam Report shows that the Philippines has the highest rate of online shopping scams, so we need to stay alert to avoid falling victim.

In honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, CIMB Bank Philippines reminds everyone to stay cautious while shopping online. Here are a few common scams to watch out for to keep your shopping experience safe and fun. 

Package delivery scams

One of the most common scams is fake delivery notifications. Scammers send emails or texts pretending to be about a package you’re expecting. These messages often contain links or ask for personal details, trying to trick you into giving away sensitive information or even money. To protect yourself, always double-check the sender and avoid clicking on links from unknown sources. Most importantly, never share your personal or financial info and report suspicious messages right away.

Fake online shopping sites

Another common trick is creating fake online stores that look real but are actually designed to steal your personal information. According to Kaspersky experts, these sites sometimes deliver products, but the quality is often poor. Even worse, they use your info for other scams. Be careful with sites that seem to create urgency or use emotional language. Also, avoid websites with poor design, odd grammar, or missing pages like ‘Contact Us’ or ‘About Us.’ If a site seems fishy, it probably is.

Payment redirection scams

Some scammers will try to convince you to pay outside secure platforms, promising discounts or faster shipping if you do. But once you send the money, the scammer disappears. Stick to trusted platforms like Shopee and Lazada, which offer secure payment protection.

Practicing safe online shopping is key to keeping your finances secure. One way to do this is by using the CIMB Virtual Debit Card, which lets you make secure transactions online. If you have a CIMB deposit account, you can easily request your free Virtual Debit Card through the CIMB PH mobile app.

Opening a CIMB account is quick and easy—it only takes a few minutes on the app. You’ll just need one valid ID if you're a Filipino citizen and at least 18 years old. Once you’re set up, you’ll have access to CIMB’s innovative deposit and loan products with some of the best interest rates around.

CIMB Bank PH has earned its reputation as the Philippines’ most awarded digital-only commercial bank. For more details about CIMB Bank PH’s offerings, head to cimbbank.com.ph. 

Kumita ng Php50,000 Kada Buwan with the Sarisuki App

As a mom and a blogger, I'm always on the lookout for ways to streamline my life and find opportunities that benefit my family. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting the Sarisuki warehouse, and I was absolutely blown away by what I discovered. 

Sarisuki is not just a place; it's an online platform that allows anyone to start their own online grocery store with ease. I’m excited to share my experience and tell you how you too can become a Ka-Sari Community Leader and start earning.

Sarisuki offers a unique opportunity for everyone to create their own online grocery store without the hassle of registration fees, quotas, or minimum orders. With just a small amount of puhunan, pwede ka nang magsimiula ng online retail or online grocery business mo. Pinakapanalo? Mababa lang ang puhunan. YES! For as low as Php1,000, you can start selling. All it takes is a bit of diskarte to get your store up and running.

Here’s how you can get started:

Download the Sarisuki CL App: The first step is to download the Sarisuki CL App from either the Google Play Store or the App Store. The app is user-friendly and guides you through the setup process.

Set Up Your Store: Once you have the app, setting up your store is straightforward. You’ll get your own unique store link, such as store.sarisuki.com/biancas-store, which you can customize to your liking.

Share Your Store Link: Now, it’s time to share your store link. This is where your diskarte comes in. Use your social media platforms, message your friends and family, and spread the word about your new online store.

Start Earning: Your customers, or Ka-Suki, can order directly from your unique webstore link. Alternatively, you can place orders for them using the Sarisuki CL app. With deliveries made from Monday to Saturday, your customers will receive their orders promptly, ensuring a steady flow of business.

The earning potential with Sarisuki is impressive. You can earn up to Php50,000 per month* by running your online grocery store. This is a fantastic opportunity to generate significant income with minimal initial investment. Plus, the platform ensures high-quality products at affordable prices, making attracting and retaining customers easy.

To maximize your success with Sarisuki, I highly recommend attending one of their business orientations. These sessions are conducted via Zoom every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. You’ll learn valuable tips and strategies to grow your business during these orientations. To sign up, download the app and use my link to register for the Sarisuki Business Orientation.

Sarisuki provides an incredible opportunity for anyone looking to start their own online grocery store and earn a substantial income. With no registration fees, no sales quotas, and the flexibility to start with low funding, it's an accessible and practical option for many. So why wait? Download the Sarisuki CL App today, set up your store, and start your journey as a Ka-Sari Community Leader. Earn with Sarisuki and watch your business thrive.

Ready to start? Click here to download the app and register for our next business orientation. Join the Sarisuki community and take control of your financial future today! 

5 Signs It's Time to Quit Your Job to Start Your Dream SME Venture

For most aspiring business owners, taking that incredible leap from employment to entrepreneurship takes courage and hard work. This is especially true if you have a family to support. However, there comes a moment when you just know that it’s time to make that transition from rank-and-file worker to small- or medium-sized enterprise (SME) or startup business owner.

Are you ready to finally quit your day job and pursue your dream business?  Entrepreneurs-in-the-making, take note of these five compelling indicators that could signify your readiness to take the plunge:

1) You Have a Clear Plan to Achieve Success

One of the first signs that you're ready to transition from a job to your dream small business is that you’ve readily come up with a well-defined plan. Your business plan serves as a roadmap for your new venture, outlining your goals, strategies, and milestones. If you’ve put together the major pieces by yourself, that means that you have a good grasp of how tangible your aspirations are and what you’re willing to do to put your dream in motion. 

Sharpen your business plan draft by setting SMART goals—or goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—so that you have a clear framework for success. Remember, a clear plan will not only chart your course, but also instill confidence in your potential investors and stakeholders.

2) You Are Prepared to Learn the Tools and Skills of the Trade

Entrepreneurship demands continuous learning and adaptability. Being prepared to learn the tools of the business is a crucial sign that you're ready to launch your small business. Start by identifying the specific skills and knowledge required for success in your industry, and draw up a rough budget for procuring the proper tools to practice them.

Take, for example, a payroll management system for properly compensating your future employees. Unless you have a background in accounting, it may take a while to learn how to navigate this complex process. Fortunately, if you’re based in that part of Southeast Asia, you can take advantage of an easy-to-use payroll system Philippines-based businesses also use. For payroll system software designed to fit the needs of SMEs and startups specifically, you can explore solutions like Maya Business’s Maya Disbursements. 

A payroll system is just one example among the many tools you need to learn about to steer your business to success. But remember that as an entrepreneur starting from scratch, you’ll also have to learn different roles and skills in the beginning. You’ll likely have to take care of operations, marketing, office admin, and more. Only if youhave the drive to continue learning will you be able to accomplish all these processes and put your new business on the path towards success.

3) You Have Multiple Products or Services to Offer

Diversification is a key strategy for ensuring the sustainability of your business. If you find yourself with multiple products or services in the pipeline, it could be a sign that you're ready to transition from the life of a regular employee to the life of a serious entrepreneur. 

Offering a range of products or services not only caters to a broader audience, but also provides a buffer against market fluctuations. Thanks to a well-thought-out business model with multiple revenue streams, you’ll be able to bolster your business's resilience from the get-go and set your own stage for long-term success.

Imagine, for example, starting your dream bakery business. Instead of simply selling ordinary bread products, you can prepare to diversify and capture the vegan market by offering vegan options. Another example is a nail salon that also offers foot spa services. If you have the initial knowledge and resources to branch out into several products and services at a time, you’ll be in a good position to start a profitable business. 

4) You Have Identified Your Market

An understanding of your target audience is a fundamental aspect of entrepreneurial success. Are you appealing to the eco-conscious Gen Z market? Then, your brand has to have sustainability built into its DNA. In addition, you have to establish a strong online presence and meet your market where they spend the most time—social media platforms. On the other hand, if your product is meant for older audiences, you may have to establish a physical store for your business. These demographics prefer to shop in person rather than online.

If you have a pretty clear idea of who you’ll want to reach out to—and if you already have an “in” with that particular demographic, for example as someone known in your field—then you may be ready to leave the working world for the entrepreneurial life. Just remember to do thorough market research to identify the demand for your products or services, and ensure that there’s a viable market for your venture. 

5) Your Initial Business Dealings Is Already Generating Income

What if you’re working and testing your business out on the side? While the journey to profitability may take time, you should notice if your sideline or “hustle” is already generating income. This early validation is a significant sign that you may be ready to pursue your SME venture full-time. 

Celebrate these initial successes as crucial milestones on your path to sustained growth, and develop strategies to scale and expand your income streams further. As a business owner, you can’t ever be complacent about how much money your business is going to make. Markets can easily shift at the drop of a hat, so you have to be ready for your next move, even while your present setup is already bringing in the profits.

So, do you have what it takes to become a small business owner? The answer may be yes. But as you take these indicators into account, remember that the path to success is unique for every entrepreneur. Take your initial readiness for what it is, and commit to further strengthening your abilities and your resilience as your dream to found a business becomes a reality.  

How to do a No-Spend Year if you are a Mom

Being a mom and a former shopaholic, I know how easy it is to constantly buy things for our children and ourselves. Shopping can be addictive and can quickly drain our bank accounts. However, after realizing my shopping habits' impact on my finances, I decided to take on the challenge of a no-spend year.

A no-spend year is a commitment to not spending money on non-essential items for an entire year. It may sound daunting, but with a little planning and self-control, it's possible to achieve. Here are some pointers to help you get started:

1. Make a budget: Before embarking on a no-spend year, it's important to make a budget and stick to it. This will help you understand where your money is going and where you can cut back.
2. Identify your triggers: Everyone has different triggers that lead them to spend money. Whether it's boredom, stress, or impulse buying, it's important to identify these triggers and find ways to avoid them.
3. Create a savings plan: A no-spend year is a perfect opportunity to focus on saving money. Set a savings goal and create a plan to achieve it.
4. Find alternatives to shopping: Instead of shopping, find other ways to entertain yourself. Take up a hobby, read a book, or spend time with friends and family.
5. Use cash only: One of the easiest ways to stick to a no-spend year is to use cash only. This will help you keep track of your spending and make you more conscious of your purchases.
6. Keep yourself accountable: Share your no-spend year journey with friends and family. This will help keep you accountable and motivated to stick to your goals.

By following these pointers, you can easily start your no-spend year and save significant money. Here are a few hacks to help you remain focused:

• Unsubscribe from shopping emails and avoid visiting your favorite stores.
• Create a vision board to remind you of your financial goals.
• Avoid using credit cards, as they can make it easier to spend money.
• Use apps or tools to track your spending and monitor your progress.
• Reward yourself for sticking to your no-spend year goals by treating yourself to something you've wanted at the end of the year.

A no-spend year can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding. By taking control of your spending habits and focusing on saving money, you can improve your finances and achieve your financial goals. So, take the challenge and see how much you can save in a year! It's all about being mindful, self-disciplined, and most importantly, being accountable for our actions." 

Review of Writing Hack Academy's Business Writing Class

In today's fast-paced and competitive job market, effective communication through writing has become more crucial than ever. As a mom blogger and someone who has always loved the art of writing, I can attest to the fact that there is always room for improvement. That's why I want to share with you an exciting opportunity to enhance your writing skills and propel your career forward: the Writing Hacks Academy.

Writing Hacks Academy is an online writing class specifically designed for professionals like you who are looking to sharpen their writing skills. Whether you consider yourself a seasoned writer or are just starting out, their comprehensive curriculum covers everything from business and technical writing to social media content development, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

The academy's ultimate goal is to empower professionals like us to communicate effectively through writing. They believe that everyone has the potential to be a great writer, and they create a fun and engaging learning environment that helps students unlock their full potential.

Under the expert guidance of Jonah Chipeco, a renowned writer, speaker, coach, and marketing consultant, Writing Hacks Academy offers courses and workshops that cover various aspects of writing. Whether you want to improve your business writing skills, craft compelling content for your website or social media channels, or simply become a more confident and effective writer overall, they have a course tailored just for you.

One of the things I love about Writing Hacks Academy is the flexibility and convenience it offers. With the option to complete coursework at your own pace, you can fit the classes into your busy schedule without sacrificing other important commitments. Each course includes interactive workshops, engaging activities, and personalized feedback and support from their instructors, ensuring that you receive the guidance you need to excel.

Having virtually experienced the academy's workshops myself, I can confidently say that enrolling in Writing Hacks Academy comes with a multitude of benefits. First and foremost, you'll see a significant improvement in your writing skills. From brainstorming and outlining to drafting and editing, they teach you proven techniques and strategies that will help you produce simple yet high-quality content.

But the benefits don't stop there. Writing Hacks Academy understands that learning is most effective when it's engaging and interactive. That's why for those who attend it face to face, they incorporate various workshops and activities into their courses, allowing you to practice your writing skills in a fun and collaborative environment. They even have integrated games and incentives to make the learning experience more exciting and motivating. You'll earn badges, compete with fellow students, and receive rewards for answering questions in your coursework.

Enrolling in Writing Hacks Academy opens up networking opportunities that can be invaluable to your professional growth. You can connect with fellow students who are also passionate about writing. This will create a valuable network where you can share your work, receive feedback, and collaborate on future projects. Make sure to actively participate in discussions and eagerly take part in the fun and educational games that Jonah prepares.

Another aspect that sets Writing Hacks Academy apart is its commitment to providing personalized feedback and support. They understand that individual attention is essential to your success as a writer. After completing a workshop, they assess your progress, provide advice, and offer insights into the exercises you've performed within the class. This personalized guidance is incredibly valuable and ensures that you continue to grow and develop as a writer.

In addition to all these benefits, enrolling in Writing Hacks Academy gives you exclusive access to a treasure trove of writing resources that you won't find anywhere else. They generously share templates, style guides, and other materials that will assist you in becoming a better writer, equipping you with the tools you need to succeed.

If you're looking to enhance your writing abilities and take your career to the next level, Writing Hacks Academy is the perfect solution. Their fun and educational writing classes for professionals will provide you with the tools. 

Five Ways to Save Money for Moms

As a mom, I know that money can be tight. There are always bills to pay, groceries to buy, and activities to pay for. It can be hard to make ends meet, let alone save for the future. But don't worry, you're not alone. Millions of moms around the world are struggling with their finances.

The good news is that there are a few things you can do to improve your financial situation. Here are five financial literacy hacks that can make a big difference. 

1. Track your spending. The first step to getting your finances under control is to know where your money is going. Track your spending for a month or two and see where you can cut back. You may be surprised at how much money you're spending on unnecessary things.

2. Create a budget. Once you know where your money is going, you can create a budget to help you stay on track. A budget is simply a plan for how you're going to spend your money. It doesn't have to be complicated. Just list your income and expenses, and then make sure you're not spending more than you earn.

3. Set financial goals. Once you have a budget, you can start setting financial goals. What do you want to save for? A down payment on a house? A new car? Retirement? Once you know what you're saving for, it will be easier to stay motivated.

4. Automate your savings. One of the best ways to save money is to automate your savings. This means setting up a system where a certain amount of money is automatically transferred from your checking account to your savings account each month. This way, you'll never even see the money and you won't be tempted to spend it.

5. Invest your money. Once you have a solid emergency fund, you can start investing your money. Investing is a great way to grow your money over time. There are many different ways to invest, so do some research and find an option that's right for you.

Following these financial literacy hacks can help you improve your financial situation and reach your goals. 

Remember, you are not alone. There are millions of moms around the world who are struggling with their finances. With some effort, you can improve your financial situation and reach your goals.

I'm doing it and if I can, so can you! 

5 Essential Money Lessons for Kids

As a mom who wasn't financially literate and made a lot of bad decisions when it comes to money handling, I know firsthand how important it is to teach your kids about money management. As parents, we want our children to be equipped with the necessary skills to succeed in life, and financial literacy is definitely one of them. So, here are five financial literacy lessons that I would like to share with my kids and yours:

Save first, spend later

One of the most important lessons I learned is the value of saving. When I was younger, I used to spend my money as soon as I received it, without even thinking about saving a portion of it. I wish I had learned the value of saving early on, and I want my kids to know it's important to save before spending. Encourage your kids to set aside a percentage of their allowance or earnings into a savings account, piggy bank, or investment account.

Budgeting is key

Teach your kids the importance of budgeting by setting up a simple budget plan with them. Help them understand the difference between needs and wants and how to prioritize expenses. Encourage them to create a budget plan for the week or month and track their spending. This way, they can see where their money is going and where they can cut back on expenses.

You can also apply the 50-30-20 rule. 50% for your spending, 30% for your needs, and 20% for savings. 

Delayed gratification

In today's society, we're often bombarded with instant gratification. From online shopping to fast food, it's easy to get what we want right away. However, it's important to teach our kids about delayed gratification. Help them understand the concept of waiting and saving up for something they really want. This way, they'll appreciate it more when they finally get it and learn the value of hard work and patience.

Credit cards and debt

Credit cards can be helpful in emergencies or for building credit, but they can also be dangerous if not used responsibly. Teach your kids about the dangers of credit card debt and how to use them wisely. Encourage them to pay off their balance in full each month to avoid interest charges and fees. Teach them the importance of having good credit and how it can affect their financial future.

Investing in the future

Lastly, it's important to teach your kids about investing for the future. Help them understand the different investment options, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Teach them about compound interest and how it can help their money grow over time. Encourage them to start investing early so they can take advantage of the power of compound interest.

Financial literacy is an important life skill that everyone should learn, and it's never too early to start teaching your kids about money management. By following these five financial literacy lessons, you can help your kids become financially responsible adults and avoid the mistakes that I made in the past. Remember, it's not about how much money you have, it's about how you manage it. So, start teaching your kids today and give them the tools they need to succeed. 

How to Teach Kids to Be Financially Savvy

As a mom of two boys, one turning three and the other turning eighteen, I am constantly thinking about how I can teach them valuable life skills. Financial literacy is one of the most important skills I want to instill in my children.

Teaching kids about money can be tricky, but incorporating online video games can make it much more fun and engaging. For example, my older son and I enjoy playing games that simulate managing a virtual budget or investing in the stock market. It’s a great way for him to learn about money hands-on and understand the importance of budgeting and saving.

I also look for one that has a variety of interactive games that can help teach kids about different financial concepts such as compound interest, credit scores, and even mortgages. One of the games my eldest and I enjoy the most is Play LEGO City Adventure Build and Protect because we like building things. 

The first time we played this, I remember our donut shop ending up on fire. The second time, we encountered thieves. It was a good way to show my kid that these are the same things that could happen in real life and that these kinds of emergencies are what emergency funds are for. 

Aside from using online games, I have regular conversations with my eldest about money. I talk to him about saving, budgeting, and setting financial goals. I also encourage him to start earning his own money through allowances or small jobs so he can learn how to manage it independently. For my youngest, I've opened a savings account where I put a thousand a month in savings for him. 

I also set a good example by practicing good financial habits, like sticking to a budget and saving for the future. And lastly, I explain the value of money and how hard it is earned so they understand the importance of being responsible.

Teaching kids about money can be daunting, but with a little creativity and patience, it can be a fun and rewarding experience for you and your children. 

How to Properly Budget in 2023

For me, 2023 is when everything is truly back to normal. People are out and about, and kids can now play freely without wearing masks. Finally, everything is back to normal except for our budget. This is the one thing that has changed since the pandemic. 

I've been budgeting my monthly finances since 2017. It hasn't been easy, but it has been very useful for me, especially when I need to check how much I still need to pay vs. how much I've earned and how much I can save. 

This 2023, I've needed to shift my budget allocation because my life goals have also changed. This year, I would like to buy healthier food alternatives rather than the cheap junk foods that I always buy. 

Fruits and vegetables are some things I want to become a staple of in my home. In fact, I even want to grow some in my urban garden because the price of things like onions is just crazy. 

I've added more fish and chicken to our menu, more grains and salads, less meat, and definitely less fried food. I'm finally going to use the air fryer, so I'll shift my budget from oil to a bit more electricity because the air fryer will be used more often. 

Since budgeting can be a hassle for many people, I'd recommend using sites that can help with financial planning and calculating how much money you can save or need to save. I used them, especially when I was new to budgeting, and it's a really good tool to utilize. 

The pandemic has been hard on everyone, but it was also a big eye-opener. Things can change instantly, so we all need to make sure that we are healthier, have a big nest egg to fall back on, and live more sustainably. 

This 2023, when you plan your budget, identify what matters most to you and allot the major part of your resource to this. For me, it'll be building a nest egg and becoming healthier. 

We don't need to make things complicated. We just need to know what matters to us, and then we shift our budget and finance to accommodate it. 

Things You Can do When You Need Money

I have written about ways to save money over and over again in the past. I shared my journey of saving money, spending it, needing it, finding ways to save more and spend less, and holding on to it in the middle of all the impulse spending. 

It can be frustrating, to be honest. After all, you work hard and yet find that money just seems to slip away and disappear instantly. Sometimes, you must be creative in making money or finding money ASAP.

1. Online Garage Sale 

These days, hosting an online garage sale is as easy as posting a picture on Instagram. I have a lot of friends who do this, and all they do is take a photo of the item they need to sell, use the proper hashtag, and write all the details and price of the item in the caption. 

Since e-wallets are now a thing, payments can be made quickly, which addresses the need to have money ASAP. This is one of the easiest ways for me, and it's hitting two birds with one stone: I get to declutter and save money simultaneously. Win-win. 

2. A Short-Term Loan

Getting a loan is a good thing especially when it's a short-term loan. This is necessary at times, especially when there are emergencies that need payment immediately. I like these kinds of loans because I can pay it soon as my next salary arrives. The other perk is that approvals for these loans are faster, so you can get the money ASAP.

However, I still recommend being wise about handling money so you can have a nest egg to fall on when unexpected expenses come up. One of the ways to do it is by budgeting. 

Budgeting is creating a plan for how I'll spend my money. I must have a budget to ensure I have enough money for the things I need, like rent, groceries, and bills, because I am a mother and a wife. I ensure that all our monthly bills are taken care of and paid for on time. 

One key thing that works for me is ensuring I clearly understand my income and expenses. This means knowing exactly how much money I make each month and how much I spend on rent, groceries, and bills. Once I clearly understand my income and expenses, I can start to create a budget that works for me. 

Another way to handle money is by setting a no-spend year. This year, I have chosen to do a no-spend year on a month-to-month basis. I am doing a no-spend for January on skincare, makeup, and headsets. I chose this because I have so much skincare, I rarely use makeup, and I have 6 headsets. I've realized this after doing a shop your stash. 

I also chose to do it month on month because it'll be easier for me to achieve than a year-long commitment which can be daunting. Making my financial goals more realistic and achievable helps me to not feel so overwhelmed. 

I hope that my tips have helped and that this 2023, you'll be able to handle your finances better. If not, there are always online garage sales and short-term loans to fall back on. 

Cheers to 2023. 

3 Ways to Save in 2023

Saving money for 2023 is an excellent idea for anyone looking to improve their financial situation. Several strategies you can use to save money and one of the most effective is the "no spend week" challenge. This means choosing a week where you will only buy the essentials, such as groceries, gas, and other necessities.

Another strategy that can help you save money is the "hidden 50 peso bill challenge." This means that every time you receive a 50 peso bill, you put it in a box and don't spend it. At the end of the year, you can use your money to buy something special or add it to your savings.

Another way to save money is to "shop your stash." This means taking inventory of the things you already have, such as clothes, household items, and other belongings. By doing this, you can avoid buying things you don't need and save money.

There are several reasons why it's best to save for a rainy day. First, having a savings account can give you peace of mind, knowing that you have money set aside in case of an emergency. Second, having savings can help you avoid going into debt if you encounter unexpected expenses, such as a car repair or medical bill. Finally, having savings can give you the financial freedom to make choices, such as quitting a job you don't like or pursuing a dream you never thought was possible.

Saving money for 2023 is a wise decision that can benefit you in many ways. Using strategies such as the "no spend week" challenge and the "hidden 50 peso bill challenge," you can start saving money today and enjoy the benefits of having savings account in the future. 

6 Ways to Protect Yourself Against Rising Inflation Rates

One of the tell-tale signs of inflation is when you start paying a higher price for the same goods and services you used to afford at a lower cost. This is most evident in the prices of goods when you go to the supermarket. You may also experience a similar trend when you pay for gas, transportation, education, utilities, or medical bills.

As a result, you may have a lower disposable income and fewer funds to spend than you want or need. This situation can make fulfilling your more challenging even if you’re employed. In some cases, increasing your income or applying for quick cash loans Philippines lenders can approve will help keep you afloat, especially if the budget is tight. Still, this is a short-term fix for dealing with rising inflation rates. If you want a long-term solution, consider these six recommendations:

Assess Your Spending

One of the best ways you can manage the effects of inflation is by evaluating your spending and removing any unnecessary ones. For example, you can reduce your nonessential spendings, such as travel and entertainment. Even if you reduce these parts of your expenses by just 5%, it can positively impact your purchasing power. 

On the other hand, be sure to be strategic when it comes to your necessary expenses. Choose generic brand products and prescriptions when shopping. You can also use store loyalty programs or membership cards to trim your expenses and take advantage of special discounts or promos. 

Look for Opportunities to Save

Aside from evaluating your spending, you should also be more active in looking for ways you can save. This may mean waiving your credit card or bank account fees, like annual membership charges. As much as possible, withdraw money from your bank’s ATMs to avoid withdrawal fees. It also helps pay your credit card bills on time and in full to ensure you won’t be charged late fees or higher interest.

Another way you can save some money is by reducing the number of subscriptions you have. See which ones you don’t use as often and consider canceling them. Also, routinely audit your subscriptions, as some might sneak in a price increase after some time. While these little adjustments may feel like minor savings, you’ll realize their effects on your finances once they accumulate.

Put Your Money in the Bank

If you want to soften the blow of rising inflation rates, keeping your money in the bank rather than storing it in your closet or wallet is a good idea. Depending on your bank, your money has the potential to grow from 0.10% to 0.25% a year when you deposit it in a savings account. This allows the value of your money to continuously earn instead of remaining stagnant.

Additionally, maintaining a savings account can encourage you to keep pooling your income in one place. This way, you will worry less about funding emergencies like home repairs, hospital stays, or temporary loss of income.

Consider Learning High-Paying Skills

Another way you can protect yourself from inflation is to acquire skills that will keep you relevant. A skilled worker in an industry with high demand opens more job opportunities. It also allows you to negotiate a more competitive salary because the people in charge will put more value on your expertise. If you don’t know where to start, consider researching emerging fields and skills with growing demand, like programming or data analytics. There are also recession-proof skills like accounting or healthcare servicing.

Explore Other Sources of Income

Increasing your cash flow is an intelligent way to keep up with rising inflation rates. If you’re currently employed, it’s a good idea to seek additional sources of income. It can also serve as a safety net if you lose your job. You can look for a side hustle to help increase your earning potential. You can find part-time jobs, invest in stocks, or explore small business ideas.

Start Investing

If you have some funds saved up, consider protecting your wealth from rising inflation rates by investing it. Talk to a broker or financial advisor and find out how you can make your money work for you. Your financial advisor may suggest trading in stocks or investing in mutual funds, depending on your risk appetite. Alternatively, you can invest in companies that can keep up with inflation rates. Typically, these are companies in the healthcare and energy sectors.

Like most individuals, you’ll feel the effects of inflation through the higher costs of goods and services. Although you can’t control inflation, you can manage its effects on your finances through these recommendations. Aside from protecting your current funds, these suggestions can also help you prepare for further events affecting your purchasing power. 

5 Reasons Why You Should Try Cash for Goals by Singlife Philippines

I had Khali when I was almost 40 years old. There, I said it. 

This means that the fear of not being present in his life when he hits college age is real. After all, by the time he goes to college, I'll be 57. I'm hoping that I will still be around and able-bodied, but I am also realistic enough to know that with everything happening around us, it may not be the case, so I need to make sure that I do what I can for my little one. 

This is why I'm so happy to hear about Singlife Philippines Cash for Education Goals. I did my research, and, as promised, I am here to share with you the 5 reasons why you should try it as well. 

1. It's so EASY. 

Applying takes less than 30 minutes. This is huge for moms because we're so swamped with so many things that we barely have time for anything else. 

This is literally something you can do at home, while waiting in line at the groceries, or even when you're having your minimal me time inside the bathroom. 

You can check out a video I made to see how it's done. 

2. FAST PROCESSING TIME. 

From the time of application to approval to activation, it took less than 30 minutes. This is important because until the policy is active, your kid won't get the benefit. 

3. NO LOCK-IN PERIOD

Should an emergency arise, you can withdraw the funds you have in the Cash for Goals. You just need to make sure that you are withdrawing a minimum of Php10,000 and leaving at least Php1,000 to keep the policy active. 

Once you are stable again, you can put back the amount that you took and play catch up with your cash for goals. Note that this may affect the timeline because you withdrew money. 

4. MINIMAL STARTING FEE

Pay Php2,500, and then you can decide on the fixed amount that you'll need to pay monthly. 

There are three choices: 

• Php500 (you get Php100,000 in 15 years) 
• Php1500 (you get Php300,000 in 15 years) 
• Php2500 (you get Php500,000 in 15 years) 

5.  BENEFIT UPON ACTIVATION 

So what happens if you don't finish paying off because of unforeseen circumstances? 

No need to worry Mom. Singlife has your back. As long as the policy is active (and it gets activated minutes after processing), your child will get the Php500,000 when he turns 17. Since he is a minor, he will need a guardian with him to claim it. 

The guardian just needs to present an AFFIDAVIT OF GUARDIANSHIP, policy name (that's your name,) beneficiary name (that's your kid's name,) and the GCash number that was used. 

I'm sure birth certificate, death certificate, and valid ID's will also be required. To be safe, it's best to email a copy of the policy to people that you want to designate as guardians in case you are gone too soon. This is what I did. 

This will not cover the entire college tuition of your kid but at least you have something to help fund things. Php100,000 to Php500,000 is still better than nothing and as financial experts would always say, something is better than nothing. 

Hope this helped! 

3 Steps to Start Saving Money

Today, I'd like to share the 3 steps I've taken to start saving money. 

I'm not a finance guru. Let's just put that out there. I don't have a degree in finance, nor have I attended many finance workshops. 

I am a Mom of two and a wife who has to budget the finance daily. I have a son who is in Grade 11 and another one about to start school. I have made mistakes in the past when it comes to money, and I am learning how to handle it better.  

So, I introduce the SPS process to people like me who still have a hard time understanding the whole investment thing and just want to start saving a little (gotta begin somewhere). 

Mind you, this is nothing fancy, and you've heard it before. I just wanted to call it SPS because it's easier to remember this way. 

S - SAVE a portion of your earnings. Ideally, they said it should be 20%, but if we are being honest, sometimes, you just can't do 20%, so I would suggest allocating what is doable. Pick a fixed amount, set that aside IMMEDIATELY, and then forget about it. 

You can also SAVE coins that you encounter on a daily basis. You can do a Php20 COIN challenge, and since that's still not common, every time you meet one, you put it aside and save it for the year. End of the year, whatever you accumulate, you put in the bank. 

Speaking of banks (which is not sponsored at all), I recommend putting money in SEABank. I have no idea who owns it, but they offer 6% PA interest, and come October, it's 5% PA which is still way more significant than other banks. 

The money I've put earns interest on a DAILY basis. I kid you not. Right now, in less than a month, I have put money, and I've already made Php13. Some of you might say huh? You're boasting about Php13. Dear, no other bank has ever given me Php13 in a month. 

Again, this is for people like me who make just enough and just wants to have a little set-aside. The more significant the amount you put in SEABank, the more interest. 

P - PAY all your bills and dues. This is the next thing you need to do with the money you've earned. Pay all the fees, rent, and maintenance, and buy all your needs for the month or until your next payday. If you can stock up a little bit on things that you regularly consume, well and good. 

The most important part of this process is that you are paying what needs to be paid for you to live a comfortable life or, at the very least, not end up in debt or on the streets. 

This part also includes paying off debt that you have or parts of it at the very least. Remember that the goal is for you to be able to have a small nest egg. 

S - SPEND on your wants. Now that you have SAVED and PAID allot a small amount for your wants. 

What? Shouldn't we save everything? 

Ideally, this is the case, but realistically, this is not right. We work hard, and we work to live, not live to work, so spending a little bit on things that just make you happy is okay. 

We must feed our souls and heart because this will inspire us to do better at work and recharge us to be happier. When we deprive ourselves too much, it can cause adverse effects and will make us feel less inclined to achieve our goals. Think of this as a reward because you adulted. 

I hope this simple article helped you in your savings journey. I know that I felt happier once I started implementing the SPS process in my life. I don't feel deprived anymore, and I feel more motivated to save and work at the same time.

Why You Need to Put Your Savings in the Bank

Many Filipinos still do not feel at ease with putting their savings in a bank. 

Most Pinoys still feel apprehensive about banking because they feel that they won't be welcomed, there are many requirements, and the initial deposit is big. Others feel that they don't need a bank and can just keep their money safe at home and provide themselves with easy access. 

However, experts continue to advise that it's still better to put one's savings in a bank so that it won't be lost or stolen. All you need to do is to visit a branch and open an account. 

So, what are the benefits of having a bank account? 

1. Convenience - With ATMs available almost everywhere, access to your money any time of the day is no longer an issue. 

2. Savings security - Your money is insured for up to Php500,000 per account. No matter what happens, know that your money is safe and sound in a bank.  

3. Interest in savings - At home, your money won't have any interest. In a bank, you earn even a small interest. 

4. Access to credit or loan - When you have money in a bank, you build your credit score. This allows banks to assess and gauge if you are good for credit or a loan. 

5. Record of all transactions - Every single transaction in a bank is recorded. All withdrawals, deposit, interest earned, all of these are recorded. 

"BDONB will prioritize those Filipinos who are in far off places and may not have banking services readily available to them. We want them to experience the benefit of having a savings account." said Jesus Antonio Itchon, president of BDONB. 

To know more about the advantages and benefits of having a bank account, visit your nearest BDO Unibank or BDONB branch. 

Why the Philippines Remains a Top Destination for BPO Firms

The Philippines is a country that has plenty to offer to those that come from near and far. Aside from its warm climate, beautiful tourist destinations, and friendly people, it also attracts plenty of foreign investments, particularly those that have to do with an industry that has emerged in recent years: business process outsourcing. Over the past two decades, the Philippines saw the rise of its information technology and business process outsourcing (IT-BPO) industry primarily due to partnerships forged between the public and private sectors. As the Philippines continues to grow its third-party service offerings and client base, the future of its outsourcing industry will keep getting brighter with more clients seeking high-quality offshore support at agreeable rates.

Tracing its beginnings to the early 1990s, the IT-BPO industry encompasses a range of services, including data entry, contact centers, back-office support, transcription, software development, and even game development and animation. According to an Outsourcing Journal report, the Philippine IT-BPO industry ranks first in voice-related support, accounting for a global market share of 13%. In 2020, the industry generated USD 26.7 billion in revenue, a value that is projected to reach USD 29 billion in 2022 despite the economic downturn driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The country’s IT-BPO sector also employs approximately 1.3 million individuals in more than 1,000 companies. Many of these workers provide customer support in a variety of industries, such as travel, insurance, telehealth, and tech. Related to this is the Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) sub-sector, which focuses on professional, knowledge-based services, including accounting, finance, virtual assistant (VA) support, and creative work.

The outsourcing industry has since expanded from large multinational organizations to include small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) seeking transparent pricing, flexible terms, and a vast portfolio of services. And with more businesses embracing hybrid or remote work, there are now more reasons to consider the Philippines as an outsourcing hub. Here are just some of the benefits foreign firms can derive when they choose to invest in the country’s IT BPO sector. 

High English Proficiency and Western Influence

The Philippines shares a long history with the West. Thanks to decades of American rule in the country, there’s barely any language barrier between Filipinos and the English-speaking world. In fact, the EF English Proficiency Index ranks the Philippines at 18 out of 112 economies, with an EF EPI score of 592, enabling it to pass the “high proficiency” standard. The country also ranks second in Asia. Although Filipinos speak and learn a number of native languages as their mother tongue, the majority of schools in the country prefer English as their medium of instruction.

And with American influences ranging from basketball to fast food, it’s no surprise that Filipinos are among the most westernized groups in Asia. 

Adequate Workforce Training

With its largely export-oriented employment culture, the Philippines offers plenty of support to future members of the global workforce. Organizations like the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) even fund training programs designed to train students for BPO jobs. There are also institutions in the country that offer BPO-specific subjects. Every year, around 500,000 Filipino students graduate equipped with in-demand skills such as software programming and app design.

Dedicated Infrastructure

Business districts in the Philippines house a large number of buildings and office spaces dedicated to the IT-BPO sector. According to the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), there are around 415 economic zones across the country, with approximately 297 accounting for IT parks and centers as of November 2021. IT-BPO firms under PEZA have also invested PHP 328.6 billion in Philippine ecozones over the last two decades, according to the agency. With more industrial parks shifting out of major urban areas and into the suburbs or provinces, opportunities remain aplenty for businesses large and small to invest in economic estates for their offshore processes.

Reasonable Service Rates 

Because of the Philippines’ low cost of living, foreign employers save labor costs through outsourced staffing solutions. In addition to the wages of Filipino workers being generally lower compared to their Western counterparts, doing business is also affordable due to lower rental rates, taxes, and exchange rates, among others. Companies can boost profits and save operational costs by realigning funds to other investments like staff upskilling and customer service improvement.

Business-Friendly Government Policies

In 1995, foreign investors saw an opportunity to expand their footprint in the Philippines through the Special Economic Zone Act or RA 7916. The law resulted in various capital- and operation-related benefits, including relaxed area development requirements, corporate tax exemptions, duty-free importations, and even permanent residency for investors. Besides instigating more prevalent foreign ownership, the Special Economic Zone Act also led to the establishment of PEZA and opened the doors for the Philippines’ BPO boom. 

In addition to providing incentive packages to attract qualified entities in industrial estates and Special Economic Zones, the Philippine government’s privatization efforts also include integration with the country’s neighbors through the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement (AFTA). Through these policies, foreign investors can enjoy lower tariff rates and broaden their consumer market in competitive economies.

All the Benefits and No Fuss

Starting a business doesn’t have to be costly, especially for enterprises that are just starting out with limited resources. Combined with strong government support and the excellent work ethic of Filipino workers, choosing to operate in the Philippines will always be a good business decision. 

Top 7 Security Tips to Protect Your Mobile Banking Account

When it comes to online and mobile banking, Filipino consumers have one big fear: cyber attacks that can wipe their life-long savings within seconds.

However, while it’s true that there are threats to the security of your bank accounts online, there are also plenty of ways to protect yourself. Here are some tips to ensure that your online and mobile banking experience is as safe as can be:

Watch Out for Suspicious Links

If you ever receive any links that lead to an unfamiliar website or ask you to download an app, don’t click them. They’re most likely designed to capture your personal information and get into accounts. Do note that these exist not just for banking, but also for social media, e-commerce, and even gaming accounts.

That said, to protect your hard-earned money, make sure that you’re visiting legitimate mobile banking Philippines’ sites and downloading official apps. For websites in particular, check the address bar to see if there’s a padlock icon, indicating that it’s protected by a security protocol.

Know What Phishing and SMiShing Look Like

Phishing is a method in which cybercriminals pretend to be reputable companies in an attempt to acquire your personal information. This is usually done through email, and the entities usually imitated are banks, lenders, government offices, and retail establishments. Often, phishing emails will tell you that you have to update your account or that you’ve won something.

The same method is now being replicated using SMS, which is referred to as SMiShing. Instead of emails, hackers will send text messages and often follow it up with a call. 

To avoid getting victimized, it’s important to be aware of an email or text you receive is phishing or a SMiShing attempt. Fortunately, it’s easy enough. Banks and other reputable institutions will never ask you for information like your password so if you encounter anything like this, don’t proceed.

You should also inspect the email address and the name of the sender to make sure that it’s really your bank. Check wrong spellings, numbers replacing letters or overlong addresses. Most importantly, when in doubt, just delete the email or text and call your bank’s hotline.

Always Update Your Phone’s OS

Your phone’s manufacturer will release periodic updates to their mobile operating system (OS), usually every two months or so. These updates are designed to fix bugs that prevent some apps and features from working properly, as well as optimize your phone’s overall performance. OS updates also improve your phone’s security.

This simply means that you HAVE to install these updates once they become available. This is especially important if you conduct banking transactions using your phone. If you don’t install the OS updates ASAP, your phone and personal details may be open to cyber attacks.

Always Update to the Latest Version of Your Banking App

Just like how phone manufacturers update their OS, your bank also regularly updates its app. Sometimes, they only update the user interface and add some new features; however, there are also times that they provide significant overhauls to the system. In fact, you may even get prompted to uninstall the old app and get the new version that has newer stronger security features. 

Same as your phone’s OS, make sure to update or download the latest version of your banking app to receive all the necessary security features.

Activate 2FA

Two-factor authentication or 2FA is a process that requires you to input a code—a one-time password or OTP—to approve a transaction. This is regardless of whether you’ve already logged in successfully to use a website or app. This additional layer of security prevents fraudulent transactions, in case your account gets compromised.

Usually, you will receive the OTP via text or email. Don’t share this OTP with anyone; if you receive an OTP even if you aren’t conducting any transactions, report it to your bank immediately.

Stop Using Unsecured WiFi Connections

When you’re out and about, it’s tempting to use a public WiFi connection to save on mobile data. However, unsecured wireless connections are quite vulnerable to hackers. In fact, skilled hackers can take only 10 minutes or so to get into an unprotected WiFi network. Then, they can easily reveal the passwords and other sensitive information of those who used the connection.

This is why you need to stop using unsecured wireless networks. If you really need to perform a banking transaction, it’s better to either use your own mobile data or visit the nearest bank branch.

Limit the Devices You Use to Access Your Accounts

To protect your mobile banking accounts, it’s best to use only one or two devices to access them. Ideally, you should use your personal phone to download the official banking app and then your personal computer at home to access the bank’s website. This way, there are fewer ways and opportunities for hackers to “get in” and steal your information. (Of course, make sure that your phone and computer are also properly protected.)

Finally, be observant. Besides the above-mentioned tips, this is the best way you can protect your mobile banking account.

Stay safe! 

My One Year Financial Goal Plan

I am tired of just making ends meet. Though I am grateful that I am able to provide and help my husband, pay the rent, have food on our table, and send our son to a good school, I want more. 

I want to have a hefty emergency fund. 

I want to have a nest egg.

I want to have enough for a downpayment for a house. 

I want to have a newer car. 

I want change. 

They said that if you want change, you need to make changes within yourself. So here is my plan to make this happen. 

1. Put money on a weekly basis inside my piggy bank. 

2. Any amount that comes into my GCash which is normally my side hustle will go directly to the bank.

3. Any extra amount that Mark makes goes to our joint account. 

4. If we have a GC to use for our groceries, the money allotted for the groceries will be split into savings and splurging on take-out. This way, we get to save and use that extra budget to eat out or take out which is one of our family vices. 

5. Continue to keep track of all spending so that it's easier to see where we need to cut down and save. 

This is the financial part. Now, here are my plans to make more money. 

1. Put out a video on YouTube 5x a week. 

2. Repurpose old content. I'm thinking download relevant videos on Tiktok and upload to IG reel. I can also download YT videos and post on my FB page as well as cut down some videos into bite-size and post on my wall and LinkedIn. 

3. Create a monthly content plan that should be followed. 

4. Promote. Promote, Promote. 

I'll be doing a regular update on this financial goal that I have from time to time and I'll let you guys know what worked, what made me cray cray, and what didn't work. 

Got tips? I'd love to hear it. 

3 Small Ways to Save Money

Saving money is hard. I know this because I have been through it. The good news is that even though it's hard, it's not impossible. You just really need to find small ways to be able to save money and so I would like to share a few ways that I do it. 

1. Save every Php200 bill you come across. It's not usual to get Php200 so every time that I come across a Php200 bill, I feed it to the piggybank. 

At the end of the year, I will split whatever will be inside the piggybank into our joint account, B's account, and Khali's account. 

2. When you feel the desire to eat out or order in, drink 2 glasses of water and then do something else. Usually, this would be enough to drive away from the desire. Cutting down on take-out and deliveries is one of the biggest ways that you can save money. When you successfully do this, put Php200 in the piggy bank. 

If you had enough money to eat out or order food, you can put away that Php200 without problems. 

3. List all your expenses for a week. Start with a week and then move on the next week. After a month, add up all the unnecessary and small expenses. I'm sure you will be shocked and appalled at how much money you spent on things that you didn't really need. This will help you be more mindful of your spending next time. 

How do you save money?