Category: Personal Finance

The Best LifeHacks in Setting Up Your Business in the Philippines

In early 2010, I migrated to the Middle East to start working as an auditor and business process consultant for a Saudi steel company and its subsidiaries. The benefits offered was overwhelming that I thought it was a once in a lifetime opportunity for me to hone my craft overseas while having the privilege to bring my family with me.

A few months later, the law for labor localization in Saudi Arabia was implemented. This prompted me to start a few business startups in the Philippines that would help provide new sources of income for my family in case my contract abroad expires.

All of a sudden, I realized that I would need to manage my online and offline businesses remotely since my overseas job contract was renewed for another 3 years.

Good thing there were several digital tools and hacks that helped me to start and manage both my online and brick-and-mortar businesses even through I was away from home.   Continue reading The Best LifeHacks in Setting Up Your Business in the Philippines

5 Types of People You Should Make Friends with If You’re a New OFW

I was an OFW (Overseas Filipino Worker) in the Middle East for almost a quarter of my life. Just like the many Filipinos in Hongkong, Singapore, Italy, or in the US whether it’s the West or East Coast, it wouldn’t be really hard to find a fellow kababayan to get along with in the Middle East.

Just look around your local community and you’ll surely find Pinoys in the supermarket, in malls, restaurants, car repair shops, tailor shops, basketball courts, sports centers, gyms, and in churches. And when you do, never hesitate to greet them and know their names. You’ll surely see them around again soon.

But while it’s good to have many acquaintances around, it’s also very important that you build friendships with the few trustworthy ones only and those who will be there for you when you need a helping hand. Here are 5 types of people you should build friendships with if you are a new OFW. Continue reading 5 Types of People You Should Make Friends with If You’re a New OFW

7 Reasons Why Renting is Better than Buying a House

One of the most sought after dreams of many Filipinos is to own a house. With the growing number of OFWs and relatively well-paying jobs locally, real estate companies and developers look at them as potential clients. It’s no wonder that condos and subdivisions are popping up in almost every corner of the country.

Historically, Filipino families either have existing land to build their own homes, or buy a new one, or rent a home from someone else.

While both renting and buying have their own respective advantages, renting can be considered to be a better option for you especially if your financial capability is not yet fully-established, i.e. no steady job yet, indebted, or still saving up for a brand new home.

Here are seven reasons why most Filipinos with no properties can have better financial edge by renting than buying a new one. Continue reading 7 Reasons Why Renting is Better than Buying a House