Achieving Financial Goals in 2025: Your Blueprint for Success

Wednesday, January 1, 2025


The start of a new year brings a sense of renewal and opportunity. For 2025, setting and achieving financial goals can position you for long-term success and stability. Whether you’re saving for a dream vacation, planning to purchase your first home, or building an emergency fund, here’s how you can make your financial aspirations a reality.

1. Define Your Financial Goals Clearly

Start by being specific about what you want to achieve. Instead of vague statements like "I want to save more," try "I will save ₱50,000 by December 2025 for a family vacation." Clear, measurable goals provide direction and motivation.

2. Create a Realistic Budget

A well-structured budget is the backbone of financial planning. Review your income and expenses to identify areas where you can cut back. Use the 50/30/20 rule:

50% for necessities (rent, food, utilities)
30% for wants (entertainment, dining out)
20% for savings and debt repayment

There are free apps that can simplify the budgeting process.

3. Automate Your Savings

Set up automatic transfers to your savings account. Treat your savings like a non-negotiable expense to ensure consistency. If your goal is to save ₱5,000 per month, automate the transfer at the start of each month to avoid the temptation to spend.

4. Invest Wisely

Let your money work for you by exploring investment options like mutual funds, stocks, or real estate. For beginners, consult a financial advisor to align your investments with your risk tolerance and goals. Remember, the earlier you invest, the greater the potential for growth due to compounding interest.

5. Pay Down Debt Strategically

High-interest debt, like credit card balances, can derail your financial plans. Use strategies such as:

The Avalanche Method: Pay off high-interest debts first.
The Snowball Method: Pay off smaller debts first for psychological wins.

By eliminating debt, you free up funds for your goals.

6. Build an Emergency Fund

Life is unpredictable. Aim to save 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses in an easily accessible account. This fund acts as a financial cushion for unexpected events, such as medical emergencies or job loss.

7. Track Your Progress Regularly

Revisit your goals every month to assess your progress. Are you on track? If not, identify the roadblocks and adjust your strategies accordingly.

8. Stay Motivated with Visual Tools

Use visual aids like goal trackers or vision boards to remind yourself of what you’re working toward. Apps like Goodbudget and PocketGuard can also help you stay focused.

9. Educate Yourself Continuously

Financial literacy is key to making informed decisions. Read books, attend seminars, or listen to podcasts by experts like Dave Ramsey or Suze Orman.

10. Celebrate Small Wins

Achieving financial goals is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate milestones, like saving your first ₱10,000 or paying off a credit card. These celebrations will keep you motivated to reach the finish line.

Start Now for a Brighter Financial Future

2025 is your year to take control of your finances. With clear goals, disciplined budgeting, and a proactive mindset, you can achieve financial security and build the life you’ve envisioned.

What are your financial goals for 2025? Share them below and let’s inspire each other to succeed!
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Alipay+ Ecosystem Reaches 35 Partners, Connecting Merchants to More Travelers During Peak Season

Monday, December 23, 2024


  • The number of travelers using their Alipay+-supported home payment app while abroad increased three times
  • Alipay+ evolved to include cross-border mobile payment, destination marketing and digital lifestyle services, giving merchants more ways than ever to connect with customers
  • Alipay+ expands merchant coverage to more local stores, attractions, F&B and transportation, in line with preference to 'travel like a local’

Alipay+, Ant International’s cross-border mobile payment and digitalization technology solution, announced new payment partners, expanded global merchant coverage, and introduced exclusive rewards for partners’ users in time for the year-end peak travel season.

Alipay+ now has 35 international payment partners, serving more global travelers and connecting them to more than 90 million merchants in 66 markets. Beyond seamless cross-border mobile payment, Alipay+ now includes an in-app destination marketing platform with digital lifestyle services, giving merchants direct channels to reach and engage customers. Its destination marketing platform, A+ Rewards, is available in more than 10 leading superapps, including Touch ‘n Go eWallet from Malaysia, TrueMoney from Thailand, GCash from the Philippines and Kakao Pay from South Korea.

Travel has rebounded significantly in 2024, and according to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the tourism industry will break all records in 2024, with international spending increasing by 33%.

“Travel has a significant impact to local and regional economies, uplifting communities, small businesses and livelihoods, trends expected to accelerate in 2025,” said Douglas Feagin, President of Ant International. “Through a combination of innovation and partnerships with merchants and tourism organizations, we aim to help more businesses leverage the opportunities from growth in tourism, while continually enhancing the personalized travel experience for travelers.”

Alipay+ expands merchant coverage, empowering global consumers to ‘travel like a local’

Travel habits have shifted, and travelers are increasingly spending more on localized experiences, with an 80% increase at Food & Beverage (F&B) merchants, 50% increase at attractions and 120% increase on transportation such as ride-hailing, taxis and trains. Alipay+’s expanded acceptance at these essential travel scenarios enables travelers to ‘travel like a local’ this year-end and beyond.

In additional to the expanded coverage, Alipay+ is also introducing exclusive promotions in top destinations around the world, working closely with partners to offer travelers the best deals.

Japan: Following its expanded partnership with PayPay, Alipay+ now connects with over 3 million merchants, including many local SMEs like izakayas, wagashi shops, snack stores, anime merchandise shops, and guesthouses. Travelers can enjoy special rewards at these local stores, at top attractions like Tokyo SKYTREE, Tokyo Solamachi, TOKYO mizumachi, and Ekimise Asakusa, and at top merchants such as airport shops, department stores, premium shopping malls, electronics and appliance retailers, and health and beauty stores.

South Korea: Alipay+ expanded to iconic local destinations such as Myeong-dong Night Market in Seoul, Nami Island Night Market in Gangwon-do, and Aewol Café Street in Jeju. Tourists can also use Alipay+'s partner payment apps to pay for bus rides in Jeju and taxis in Seoul. Travelers can enjoy promotions at more than 1.9 million ZeroPay merchants and other attractions and merchants such as Everland Theme Park, GS25 convenience stores and more.

Singapore: Travelers can better enjoy the world renowned attractions and food in Singapore, with Alipay+ recently accepted at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, which includes the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and Bird Paradise, and expanded F&B merchants which include top foodie experiences such as CHAGEE, Toast Box and BreadTalk, and historical food site, Lau Pa Sat.

Malaysia: Alipay+ makes it easier for travelers comminuting between the airport and city with its acceptance at KLIA Express Rail Link in the capital. Pavilion KL, one of the top shopping malls with a wide collection of international and local brands and food also joins as one of the latest Alipay+ partners. Alipay+ is additionally connected with DuitNow QR with close to 2 million merchants.

Thailand: Alipay+ offers exclusive promotions at leading retailers under Central, Siam and King Power, and everyday conveniences such as 7-Eleven, BigC, Boots and BTS trains.

Philippines: Alipay+ has grown its coverage in key cities in the Philippines and is now accepted by more than 140,000 merchants, including the Mall of Asia, one of the largest shopping malls in the world.

Cambodia, Nepal: Alipay+ recently established new national standardized QR partnerships in Cambodia via KHQR and Nepal via NepalPay QR, providing ease of payment at more than 1 million and 875,000 local businesses respectively.

United Kingdom: Travelers can now more easily explore the arts culture in London, with Alipay+ recently accepted at Van Gogh House, in an historic building in London. Promotions are available at some of the most iconic retail destinations in London, including Harrods, Selfridges, Liberty of London, Harvey Nichols as well as at Bicester Village.

Germany: Alipay+ will introduce the “German Shopping Festival”, bringing together a wide range of German merchants, offering exclusive discounts, Christmas-themed travel guides, and unique shopping experiences.

France: Travelers visiting France will enjoy a promotional instant cashback on purchases at some of the top retail destinations in Paris such as Galeries Lafayettes, La Vallée Village and Printemps Haussman.

Italy: Alipay+ is now accepted at the biggest duty free store in Italy, Aelia Duty Free (Lagardere Group) at Rome airport. Additionally, Tinaba e-wallet users will benefit from cashback promotions running until end of January at Alipay+ enabled merchants across the country.

Istanbul: Alipay+ is now accepted at Unifree Duty Free at Istanbul Airport, the second busiest airport in Europe.

Abu Dhabi, Dubai: Travelers will benefit from a direct discount at key retailers such as Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and at key duty-free stores and airports, including Dubai Duty Free and Abu Dhabi Duty Free
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Bossjob Supports Commuting Jobseekers with FREE Beep Cards at Ayala MRT

Saturday, December 21, 2024


In an inspiring move to address the challenges faced by jobseekers and young professionals transitioning back to onsite work, Bossjob, the country’s leading AI-powered, chat-first recruitment platform, distributed free Beep Cards to commuters at MRT Ayala Station from December 16 to 20, 2024. This initiative reflects Bossjob's continuing commitment to empowering Filipinos and easing their jobseeking journeys.

With one of Metro Manila’s busiest transport hubs as the backdrop, the activity drew a diverse crowd of daily commuters eager to take part in the event. Bossjob’s effort comes at a critical time as businesses across the country are steadily returning to office-based operations, increasing the commuting burden on many workers.

"Shifting back to onsite work can be tough, especially with the added burden of daily commuting," said Kimberly Chen, Country Manager of Bossjob. "We recognize this challenge, and through initiatives like this, we aim to provide practical assistance while empowering jobseekers to confidently pursue opportunities that align with their career goals."


The free Beep Card initiative not only provides commuters with immediate financial relief but also highlights Bossjob’s broader mission of connecting employers and talents efficiently. By focusing on real-life needs such as transportation costs, Bossjob once again delivers on its dedication to make meaningful contributions to the labor force beyond recruitment.

Attendees expressed their appreciation for the thoughtful initiative, with one commuter sharing, "This is such a great help for people like me who are trying to make ends meet while pursuing better career opportunities. It shows that Bossjob truly cares about jobseekers like us."

Bossjob’s platform leverages AI-powered talent matching and direct chat features, streamlining the hiring process for both employers and jobseekers. By making job applications faster and more accessible, Bossjob is transforming the way professionals connect with opportunities in Southeast Asia.

This Beep Card initiative is just one of the many ways Bossjob continues to innovate and support its community, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in the professional growth of Filipinos. The company remains committed to creating opportunities and empowering jobseekers to thrive in a competitive job market.

For more information about Bossjob and its recruitment solutions, visit Bossjob’s official website.










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Visa empowers OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners with seamless remittance solutions

Friday, December 20, 2024

seamless remittance solutions

As holiday remittances peak, Visa enhances its commitment to simplifying and securing digital money transfers for OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners worldwide.

Remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), digital workers, and SME owners surge during the holiday season, as many Filipinos abroad send extra funds to support family celebrations, year-end expenses, and business investments. In December 2023, remittances hit a record $3.6 billion, a 3.9% increase from the previous year. This seasonal boost provides essential financial support for Filipino households and local businesses, covering holiday needs and fueling consumer spending.

Digital money movement solutions are making it easier than ever for OFWs, digital workers, and SME owners to send money home. This has driven a surge in remittance volumes, especially during the holiday season. With 75% of Filipino senders using digital apps in 2023, according to Visa's Money Travels: 2024 Annual Remittances Adoption report, they can transfer funds with greater convenience, speed, and security.

From the Philippines to the world: supporting digital workers and SME owners

However, the movement of funds to and from the Philippines is not solely driven by OFWs. As the Philippine economy embraces digitalization, many Filipinos are increasingly servicing overseas clients through roles such as Virtual Assistants (VAs), in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector, and other online freelance work. This expanding community of digital workers is fueling cross-border transactions, boosting inbound flows, and solidifying the Philippines' position in the global digital economy. The country's BPO sector, a major driver of this growth, is forecasted to generate $35.5 billion in revenue and employ 1.82 million Filipinos by 2024. Complementing this is the rising freelance industry, with 1.5 million Filipinos now registered as freelancers.

Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: “The Philippines has a robust OFW remittance market, contributing approximately 8.5% of the country’s GDP. With digital money movement solutions, Filipinos now have more options to send money back home. This shift simplifies financial support and fosters greater financial inclusion, enabling access to secure, regulated digital channels.

At Visa, we recognize the vital role that OFW remittances play in supporting Filipino families and driving economic resilience. By enhancing digital money movement solutions, we’re making it easier, faster, and safer for Filipinos to send and receive funds globally. Our commitment extends to empowering digital workers and SME owners with seamless and reliable cross-border payment solutions."

For freelancers and small business owners, digital payment modes offer opportunities to grow their businesses. Earlier research from Visa shows that among businesses in the Philippines that have adopted digital payments, those accepting cards saw the most significant turnover increases at 83%. Visa's data revealed that 72% of surveyed SMEs found business management easier with digital payments. These payments provide instant transfers and enable cashless transactions, enhancing the commerce experience. Visa supports SMEs by offering widespread acceptance and robust protection against fraudulent activities for both merchants and customers.

Making remittances more seamless

As more Filipinos turn to digital money movement platforms, many of the challenges associated with traditional money movement solutions —such as high fees, lengthy and processing times—are being reduced.

In the Philippines, where these barriers have long impacted senders and recipients alike, digital solutions are making remittances more affordable and convenient. In 2023, of the Filipinos who used digital money movement services, 58% indicated a preference to use them more frequently going forward, compared to just 24% for traditional money movement services. Digital users also report fewer issues and greater reliability, underscoring the advantages of digitization in making remittances easier and more accessible.

Visa recognizes the importance of seamless money movement solutions for OFWs and supports this through a Visa card feature that enables cardholders to instantly receive funds sent from abroad. This offers a faster and more convenient way to send funds globally. Any customer with a Visa card issued in the Philippines can receive funds by simply providing their card number to the sender.

This, among other innovative services, underscores Visa's commitment to enhancing digital money movement for Filipinos, which transforms how they connect with the global economy.

The ease, speed, and affordability of digital platforms are reshaping the money movement landscape, simplifying processes for OFWs, and unlocking opportunities for SMEs, outsourcing, and freelance industries. Visa’s commitment to digital solutions strengthens economic support, growth, and financial inclusion driving a more resilient Philippine economy.
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Fueling Change in an Unpredictable World

Thursday, December 19, 2024

Jos Ortega

HAVAS Red Names “Rage” as 2024 Word of the Year


Are you feeling overwhelmed, angry, or frustrated by the constant flow of global issues, social movements, and online debates? Well, you're not alone. In fact, the word rage has become a defining emotion for 2024. According to Havas Red, this raw and powerful emotion is not only a reflection of the times but also a catalyst for change.

In a year marked by deep political divides, global unrest, and social unrest, rage has emerged as a force that shapes how we respond to adversity. Whether it's sparked by injustice, inequality, or societal challenges, rage has become both a reaction and a call to action.

“Our choice of rage isn’t just about anger; it’s about energy,” says Jos Ortega, Chairman & CEO of HAVAS Ortega. “It’s about acknowledging the emotional undercurrents driving conversations and actions—and recognizing rage as a force for change when channeled constructively,” he added.

The rise of rage as the 2024 WOTY highlights how the collective frustration felt across the globe is increasingly being channeled into activism, protests, and social movements. This word reflects a world where frustrations are not just bubbling beneath the surface but are now demanding attention.

Psychologists say that rage, when directed constructively, can inspire change. This is the driving force behind many of the most prominent social movements today. People are no longer content with simply being upset; they're mobilizing, organizing, and demanding systemic change.

But it's not all negative. Rage has the potential to unite people, too. Movements like climate change advocacy, gender equality, and racial justice have all benefited from the passion and energy that rage brings. It's a force that can bring people together, regardless of their differences, to address the root causes of societal problems.

Rage doesn't just show up in the streets. It's also visible in the virtual world, where internet culture and memes can amplify frustration and drive viral moments. From TikTok videos to Facebook posts, rage has become a language in itself, helping people find solidarity in shared emotions.

Havas Red’s focus on rage reflects its understanding of how emotions shape our world today. As we move through 2024, the challenge is clear: rage can divide, but it can also unite. It can destroy, but it can also rebuild. The key lies in how we channel that energy.

“This isn’t just about the word itself; it’s about what it represents,” Ortega emphasized. “At Havas Red, we’re committed to helping our clients address the complexities of the modern world. Rage is a wake-up call, and we’re here to turn that energy into action,” he added.

So, next time you're scrolling through social media or engaging in a heated debate, remember: rage is not just a reaction. It's a tool—one that can drive meaningful change when used purposefully.

To learn more about how rage is shaping the global conversation and how it can be harnessed for good, visit www.redhavas.ph.
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EastWest Recognized in PDI-Statista Best Employers Awards

Wednesday, December 18, 2024


EastWest has been named one of the Philippines' Best Employers by the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista, a global leader in data analytics and market research. This recognition comes as the Bank celebrates its 30th Anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to fostering an engaging and empowering workplace for its employees.

The nationwide survey evaluated thousands of companies with at least 250 employees, based on key criteria such as trust, satisfaction, and willingness to recommend their workplace. The acknowledgment underscores EastWest’s efforts to prioritize its workforce as a critical driver of its success and underscores its belief that its people are its greatest asset.

Commitment to Enabling Employees and Enhancing Engagement

EastWest’s inclusion in the PDI-Statista Best Employers list highlights its focus on creating a dynamic and inclusive workplace that empowers employees to thrive both personally and professionally. The Bank has rolled out a variety of initiatives designed to foster employee engagement, enablement, and well-being:

  • Continuous employee development and career enrichment, providing tools and opportunities for growth.
  • Team-building and culture-strengthening programs, promoting collaboration and shared success.
  • Recognition and appreciation efforts, ensuring employees feel valued and motivated.
  • Hybrid work arrangements and flexible workforce management, supporting work-life integration.
  • Comprehensive health and wellness support, focusing on physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
  • Improved processes through automation and technology, streamlining work and enhancing productivity.

These initiatives have significantly enhanced employee satisfaction, as reflected in the Bank’s View of the Workforce (V.o.W.) Engagement Survey, which shows a marked improvement in engagement levels. This is further supported by a steady decline in attrition rates and growing participation in various employee programs, with over 80,000 internal social media engagements and a rise in the Bank’s appeal in the talent market.

By continuously refining its People Advantage Gameplan, EastWest remains committed to positioning its employees as its greatest competitive advantage, ensuring they are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the Bank’s goals while achieving their own aspirations.

Further for You, Further with You

The survey's results align seamlessly with EastWest’s “Further for You” philosophy, which transcends customer service to prioritize the well-being, growth, and success of its employees. “This recognition inspires us to accelerate the implementation of our People Advantage Gameplan, firmly positioning our employees as the cornerstone of our competitive edge. Together, as one EastWest Bank, we will advance this agenda further for and with our employees,” shared Atty. Alfie Suarez, EVP and Chief People & Corporate Services Officer.

Building on this significant achievement, EastWest remains consistent in cultivating an inclusive and dynamic workplace that empowers its employees to excel. With this recognition from the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista, EastWest is more committed than ever to creating an environment where its workforce can thrive, ensuring they deliver meaningful value to clients, partners, and the Filipino community while achieving their aspirations.
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UN Women and Australia celebrate the awardees of the 2024 Philippines WEPs Awards, launch the Gender Action Lab

2024 Philippines WEPs Awards

Winners in different categories awarded at the 2024 Philippines WEPs Awards held at the Marriott Hotel

UN Women Philippines, in partnership with the Australian Government, proudly hosted the 2024 Philippines Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards and launched the UN Women Gender Action Lab: Innovation and Impact for Gender Equality in the Asia-Pacific.

The WEPs Awards celebrates the actions of companies and leaders advancing gender equality within their organizations, value chains, and communities. Among the 20 Awardees, this year’s Winners included Ireen Catane of Schneider Electric (Leadership Commitment), Manila Water Company (Community Engagement and Partnerships), Schneider Electric (Gender-Inclusive Workplace), HSBC Electronic Data Processing (Transparency and Reporting), Pru Life UK (Gender-Responsive Marketplace) and The Spark Project (SME Champion) leading the private sector.

The Awards also welcomed Villgro Philippines as the Winner of the 2024 Highlighted category Innovative Financing, recognizing innovative approaches to funding women-led enterprises and gender lens investing.

“Achieving gender equality requires bold leadership and action from the private sector. Businesses hold a unique ability to disrupt inequalities and drive systemic change by embedding practices that promote gender equality into their operations, said Athena Denise Galao, OIC – Country Programme Coordinator, UN Women Philippines.

"This year’s Awards night celebrated trailblazers leading the way in closing gender gaps and promoting inclusive practices across industries,” added OIC Galao.

During the event, UN Women and Australia also launched the Philippines chapter of the Gender Action Lab – a dynamic regional platform that aims to drive innovation and action to advance gender equality, empower women, and build more inclusive economies across the Asia-Pacific.

In collaboration with the private sector, the Gender Action Lab will identify, pilot and scale up multi-stakeholder partnership initiatives, such as thematic innovation labs, hackathons, incubators and accelerators, policy labs, applied research initiatives, and other partnership programs.

“Gender equality is a key driver of economic progress and a core priority in Australia’s work in the Philippines. The Gender Action Lab will deliver tangible outcomes for women’s economic empowerment across the Philippines and the wider Asia-Pacific region, said H.E. HK Yu PSM, FCPA (Aust), Australian Ambassador to the Philippines.

The WEPs Awards, first established in the Asia-Pacific region in 2020, emerged as an innovative approach to accelerate the implementation of the Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) – a set of 7 principles that provide companies a roadmap to advance gender equality throughout their value chain. With 180 Philippine companies now signed onto the WEPs, the movement for inclusive workplaces, marketplaces and communities continues to gain momentum across the country. WEPs Awardees from the Philippines will have an exceptional opportunity to showcase their accomplishments and best practices at the upcoming 2025 Regional WEPs Forum. The event will bring together companies and business leaders who are driving significant impact and making remarkable strides in women’s economic empowerment.

The Awards night concluded with the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) signing the WEPs. “We celebrate the new WEPs signatories – this sends a strong signal that businesses of all sizes and sectors can contribute to creating more equitable workplaces and communities,” said Ambassador Yu.

The Awards night was graced by key figures who played pivotal roles in promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in the Philippines, including Matija Kovač, Head of the UN Philippines Resident Coordinator’s Office; Delia Albert, former Ambassador to Australia and former Secretary of Foreign Affairs; Ermelita Valdeavilla, Chairperson of the Philippine Commission on Women; Rissa Mananquil-Trillo, UN Women Champion, author, and entrepreneur; and Bianca Gonzalez, UN Women Philippines Celebrity Champion.
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