Pinay Diaspora

My LBC Kuwait Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Thu, 10 Nov 2016 19:13:00 +0000

My father, who is an OFW for more than 20 years has used almost all of the known Balikbayan Box couriers around the Middle East. But never had he experienced using LBC to send our boxes back home in the Philippines. When I had the chance to try it out, I wasn't hesitant but was feeling very pleased and grateful since I've used LBC's local services when I was still in Manila. But this time, we are sending it internationally.

When I first received my balikbayan box, rather, a Balikbayan Drum as I prefer to call it, it somehow reminded me of our water drums back home. It was big, thick and definitely heavy. As I checked every corner and tried to even knock to hear any sound or vibration, I knew that it was made of solid plastic and it was definitely tough to break! Oh, it only costs 13 KD.

This is how it was exactly delivered to us.

Top cover with steel lock.. and a key hole area if you want to put a padlock in.

The steel lock when opened.

Inside of the drum..quite deep and sturdy! Will definitely fit a lot of things in there!

But putting all of our goods to be sent home was another story since you need to have longer arms (I'm 5 foot and 3 inches in height) to put everything in. Thankfully my fiance was there to help arrange everything. It took us half a day to finish everything in but when we're about to lock it, lo and behold we forgot the key!

This is how it looked like while inside the house..ready for packing!

Our goodies inside the drum. Not yet final though since we're checking how it would all fit in.

My father, who just came and asked if we're done checked the drum and all our contents. He then told us that LBC's key hole needs a longer kind of padlock since the size of the hole is smaller than the usual. This, I must say, was kind of tricky. For two days we were searching all of Salmiya's hard ware stores to find that lock and we found one that cost 1.5 KD that can fit it.

The padlock that we found that is suitable for the drum's key hole

All set and ready for delivery!

Once we're done, we called our contact person Mr. Rian Jay Bañaga and have all the delivery services settled. Once the pick up date came, we were surprised to know that it only costs 25 KD for Sea cargo rate for our area in Bulacan. Honestly, the rate was just right since I think our 1 drum's total weight is equivalent to 2 ordinary balikbayan boxes (cartons) already! Plus, you can still reuse it to put it your water especially for areas in the Philippines that needs water drums for keeping.

Our Balikbayan Drum arrived safely! Photo taken by my Aunt. Sorry for the pixelized image.

The LBC seal is all tight

All in all our experience was pretty good! Add the fact that it arrived at exactly 55 days since we last sent it on Sept 8 and it arrived safely this Nov 2! All sealed and tight! No damage. So what are you waiting for? Trust the name, you definitely won't regret it!

For more information about LBC EXPRESS KUWAIT and their products, you can check their official Facebook Page. You can also visit their office located at Shop 28 Basement 1,2,3 Block 13 Fahad Al Salem Street in Al Salhiya, Kuwait City or you can call +965 22200428 or +965 99616522.

#PHvoteDuterte

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sat, 30 Apr 2016 10:28:00 +0000

Rody Duterte is believed to be a tough-machismo-unethical-wanna be dictator who have low moral values by how he has instilled fear among his people because of his strict reputation against drugs, corrupt officials and criminals; from the way he speaks like a kanto-boy; by cracking unethical jokes relating to important national issues; swearing like he's doesn't care about anything; opposing sensitive issues like same-sex marriage and pushing for peace talks with the "Mindanawans" by connecting with the rebels to know what they really want; belittling women's rights because of his status as a known womanizer; and so on. BUT, in times like ours where all the unethical-wrongdoings is the "new right thing" where people thought they can get away with just about anything by thinking that their principle and ideas are correct.. the quote "words is mightier than the sword" doesn't seem to be applicable anymore. What the current Filipino society now needs is someone who can BREAK THE STATUS QUO.

We, Filipinos, are known for being a democratic, conservative yet modern, free-loving people who actually thinks that everything that we have is "entitled to us". Unfortunately, these kinds of mentality creates a wrong notion for us, the Filipino people, to believe that we can turn ALL things in our favor by disregarding the moral values that our parents have taught us. Today, we need someone who can break the status quo by slapping us with the reality that we, Filipinos, need to change not only from the outside but as well as from the inside. We are a "judgmental nation". That's a sad fact. We see things superficially and not by what they have done to make some change. This crazy 2016 Philippine Election is a great example of how we are as a nation. If we don't want to CHANGE THINGS NOW by exercising our right to suffrage WISELY.. it's definite that there will just be another never-ending cycle of craziness coming soon. Whew.

May God be with us all!

Balikbayan Box

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 18:50:00 +0000

Balikbayan boxes has always been regarded as a symbol of an OFW's love for his/her family back home in the Philippines. The box doesn't only contain material things that the family, friends and relatives ask as favor or pasalubong after being away for quite some time but it is also filled with an OFW's hopes, dreams and aspirations to have a better life for his/her loved ones.

Ang bawat balikbayan box ay produkto ng pawis, luha, dugo at pagnanais ng bawat OFW na maibigay sa kani-kanilang pamilya ang isang masaganang pamumuhay.

Official logo of LBC

Since the box is very important, finding the right, affordable, reputable and trusted cargo service is not an easy task lately especially with all the bad feed backs and news that affects cargo shipments back home. Instead of uplifting news, OFWs are faced with varying issues that deal with custom problems, tampered boxes, lost items, taxes and the so called Balikbayan Box Law which proposes total dutiable value on boxes limiting the amount to Php 150,000 and that which can only be enjoyed three times a year. But despite all of this, OFWs are still firm in making sure that all the goods that they have slowly and meticulously saved during their stint working overseas will be received and enjoyed by their loved ones back home.

Trusted couriers are a hard find especially in the Middle East so when a Philippine-owned brand emerged in Kuwait to compete with the local ones, it's not surprising to find fellow Kababayans booking their services. LBC EXPRESS INC., has been in the courier industry since 1945 and has expanded their services to 1,020 branches in the Philippines alone and 60 international branches. Here in Kuwait, they have released two balikbayan boxes that would surely be a hit to our fellow OFWs. The LBC Balikbayan Trunk and the LBC Balikbayan Drum! These two new containers are made of stainless steel trunk and heavy duty plastic that would definitely ensure that the items inside will not be spoiled by any means and will be delivered safely back home in the Philippines!

Also, both containers can be sent through Air Cargo and Sea Freight. There is a money-back guarantee feature for containers sent via Air Cargo for lost shipments only with the prerequisites of declaring all the items in the packing list and photos of the container before it was sealed to ensure that there are no prohibited items inside.

Personally, we have used LBC's services for years and I grew up knowing them as the Hari ng Padala, just like what their commercial jingle always says back in the day. Even as of today when they have re branded their company with the motto - We like to move it, LBC Express is still the number one and trusted choice for express cargo - both for airfreight and sea freight. With the two new containers available, made of steel trunk and heavy duty plastic drums, LBC Express Kuwait has made sure that all the items in the Balikbayan containers will be safely delivered to the families of OFWs in the Philippines. Because of their reputation in delivering fast and efficient products and services through the country, it is no doubt that LBC Express has gained the respect of its clients for over 70 years all over the world.

For more information about LBC EXPRESS KUWAIT and their products, you can check their official Facebook page HERE. You can also visit their office located at Shop 28 Basement 1,2,3 Block 13 Fahad Al Salem Street in Al Salhiya, Kuwait City or you can call +965 22200428 or +965 99616522.

Ngayon ito ang tanong ko sayo kabayan...

Ano'ng pinaka-safe na cargo company para sayo?

Ayoko kumuha ng Insurance

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 05:16:00 +0000

Ayoko kumuha ng Insurance/VUL. Forced savings yan eh. Sapilitang pag iipon..Mapipilitan...mapipilitan ako..

1. Mapipilitan akong mag budget at pagkasyahin ang budget..Wala sa budget mag Jollibee ngayong Linggo. Mapipilitan akong bumili ng chicken sa palengke at gayahin ang recipe ng Jollibee...

2. Mapipilitan akong maging honest. Yeah, 10 years na ako dito sa trabaho ko. 10 years pero wala akong ipon..Hindi ko talaga alam..Hindi ako aware na nagtatrabaho ako para sa credit card...Masarap mag swipe teh, 0% interest!

3. Kapag kumuha ako niyan, mapipilitan akong kalimutan ang friends kong pasosyal. Magbabaon ako every payday. E ano kung lunch out sila? Ako naman pipila sa bangko para magdeposit...Isang oras lang silang masisiyahan.,Ako habangbuhay..😊

4. Mapipilitan akong lampasan ang SM every payday. E ano kung 70% off? Mas matalino ako kay Henry Sy..bago pa niya makuha pinag hirapan ko, na i top up ko na sa VUL ko..

5. Mapipilitan akong maglagay ng Critical illness benefit..iyon bang kapag nagkasakit ako e hindi ako pabigat? Hindi ibebenta ang kalabaw, hindi isasangla ang bahay...Pero teka..madami akong kamag anak sa abroad na magpapautang sa akin, isa isahin ko na lang kaya sila? .Im sure maaawa sila sa akin kapag nag ca cancer ako..E ano kung pabigat ako sa kanila..Kasalanan ko ba kung mag kasakit ako?

6. Mapipilitan akong tanggapin na hindi ako super sayan..Na maari akong maaksidente paglabas ng bahay. Kapag naaksidente ako, mahohospital ako.. Uutang na lang ako sa ate ko, palagi namang may pera iyon..E ano kung mababawasan iyong pang educ plan ng anak niya? Ate ko siya! Hello!

7. Mapipilitan akong mag retire ng mayaman..Grabe..Hirap nun! Baka hindi ko kayanin gastahin lahat ng milyones ko.

8. Mapipilitan akong tigilan ang pag gy-gym kuno. Sayang lang membership ko. Kumakain naman ako after..

9. Mapipilitan akong tanggapin na mas mahalaga ang insurance ng buhay ko kaysa kotse ko..Pero pre! Pumapalakpak tenga ko kapag sasabihin mong astig ang mags ko..

10. Mapipilitan akong masaktan. Biruin mo, tatanggihan kong pautangin ka friend. Kasi naka budget na ang pera ko...

Tulungan mo ako please. Tulungan mo akong huwag ipasa itong application ko.
Ayoko...ayoko kumuha ng VUL.

Sige na nga, mai submit na nga ito..

Credit: Neh Crucillo

My financial journey

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Fri, 29 Jan 2016 08:30:00 +0000

Talking about one's personal fina

Philippines won Miss Universe 2015

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 07:03:00 +0000

The whole country is just thrilled to know that our bet, Ms Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach has brought back the Miss Universe 2015 crown after 42 years! When asked about what can she do as a Miss Universe winner, she replied by simply saying "I am confidently beautiful with a heart."

Although her win wasn't all sunshine since the host for the night, Mr Steve Harvey first declared Miss Colombia as the winner. Then just after 4 minutes of happiness, Mr Harvey apologized by saying that he misread the card and showed it on live TV. It was indeed Miss Philippines and not Miss Colombia.

Congrats again Ms Pia! :)

We are God's Masterpiece

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 16:45:00 +0000

I came from a typical OFW family. My father went to Saudi Arabia when I was seven to search for greener pasteur while my mother who was a public school teacher raised me and my two brothers. Growing up, I never really had a physical father figure and I thought my family's structure was normal. My father would go home every two or three years and would only spend a month with us. That's how I remember my childhood with my father. On the other hand, my mother became the de facto head of the family with the responsibilities of raising three children all by herself. Financially, my father would support and provide us with everything that we need by sending us to Catholic schools and giving us a good lifestyle that we were really grateful for. But his lack of physical presence in our lives seemed to give us that feeling of emptiness as we grow older.

My lovely family

By God's grace, I finished my education with flying colors while all the time acting as a good role model to my two younger brothers. I thought that was enough since I became the obedient daughter and supportive sister that I should be. Unfortunately, my brothers and I doesn't seem to share the same ideals.

One of my brothers, a former YFC like me, who we thought was doing okay with his Nursing degree had been having a hard time all along coping up with peer pressure and instead resorted to smoking and drinking. His growing addiction to computer games led him to fail his grades which inevitably got him kicked out of the program. His problem escalated more when he got his then-girlfriend pregnant at 18. This news came as a big shock to both my parents who have been great providers and supporters in their own way, especially to my mother who has been actively serving in the Church and is a CFC HOLD leader. My father, who thought everything is going well with us because we are all Catholic-schooled and had been guided spiritually by our Parish and CFC family felt devastated with what happened to his eldest son. He was even brought to the ICU and was hospitalized for a couple of days due to a heart attack after learning of all this because he never thought that his quiet, smart, altar-server-son would do such a thing.

Then, unexpectedly my youngest brother who at that time just started going to College as well suffered depression when he learned that his girlfriend from high school cheated on him when she went to the US. Instead of telling us about his problems, he simply kept silent and diverted his attention to smoking. Because of this, he got himself kicked out of his Accountancy program because of inconsistencies in school requirements.

During those times, I would remember that whenever I would pray so hard, I would always ask God why this is happening to us. I felt like we did something wrong. All of these trials came unexpectedly and has shaken our quiet family. What's worst is that I really feel bad seeing my parents going through the pain of disappointment and always questioning themselves about where could have they done wrong? Aalso, it pains me to see my two brothers going through all of these problems that we would only hear from stories of friends and relatives. It even came to a point where I felt helpless and as their Ate, I blamed myself that I wasn't able to guide them properly and that I just couldn't protect them.

I thought that what we have before was enough. Even though we have a dysfunctional family structure we have always been happy. But truth is, the problems arise because God intended for it to happen. Crazy as it may seem, God's plans are way better and complex than ours.

If God didn't separate my parents physically for the last 20 years, they wouldn't probably be celebrating their 31st wedding anniversary next month while still acting like lovestruck teenagers.

If God didn't allow us to be raised alone by our mother, we probably wouldn't be as strong as who we are now even with all the trials that had come our way.

If God didn't made my brother feel the addiction to vices and hadn't gotten him in a situation to become a young father, he wouldn't be the mature, hardworking and devoted husband to his wife that I know now who is also a father of three beautiful children.

If God didn't made my youngest brother suffer heart break, depression and confusion as to what he really wants with his life, he would've not found his girlfriend of 3 years now and won't be able to know that he wanted to become a Doctor.

God has his own plans for us because he created us, whether we may question his ways or try our best to understand everything. His plans are way bigger, better and more beautiful than what we can imagine and hope for. It's simply trusting him to unfold his promises and to realize why they all happened. Everything will take its course according to his plans at the right time and all we need is to have faith. All of this is possible because We are God's masterpiece.

Chatime in Kuwait

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 15:25:00 +0000

I've always been a fan of shakes and tea since I was a kid. In the Philippines, we have this local ice cold drinks of different fruit puree, powdered milk and juice that is mixed with tapioca shells (gulaman/sago). Because of its popularity, companies started to create commercialized products and sell them of at food stalls for a good price. This kind of drink is really popular during the summer season and since the Philippines is a tropical country, people would always want to quench their thirst with something nice and cold.

On my way home last night, a friend recommended for us to drop by a new franchised store that serves different kinds of ice cold milk tea. I've known the brand in the Philippines so when I found out they finally had one here in Kuwait, we went there eagerly to try out their best sellers.

Since I'm a fan of green tea, I ordered Matcha with Red Bean Milk Tea with Coffe Jellies drink for only 1.750KD and my boyfriend had his Taro (Ub) Milk Tea with Rainbow Jellies. The taste of my drink really reminded me of what a milk shake with tapioca shells (sago) should taste like. My Matcha drink has this authentic oriental tea taste and gives you that perfect combination of sweetness that you would want to drink again and again! Add the fact that the crew were all Filipinos and the owner, who is a Kuwaiti, Dr. Adel was very nice and friendly. He even gave us 20% discount when we ordered 3 drinks and also took a picture with us while having our refreshing drinks!

With the owner of Chatime Kuwait, Dr. Adel

If you want to have the same experience, be sure to drop by Chatime Kuwait located at Fayzah Complex Block 4 Street 114 Shop 8 near Jollibee Farwaniya or contact them at 69977575. Just mention PinayDiaspora when ordering your drinks and for sure you'll get more discounts. :)

You can also follow them at their official FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM and TWITTER accounts by clicking the links.

FBK Book Launch and Signing

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 14:50:00 +0000

The Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK) held its first Book Launch and Signing activity at the Philippine Embassy last 21 August 2015 Friday in Faiha for The Global Filipino Bloggers Slambook - OFW Edition of Ms Gracia Amor, FBK founder. The event was attended by various Filipino Community members and supported by the officials of the Philippine Embassy.

Pinay Diaspora has been recognized by the Philippine Embassy Kuwait. Thank you!

Also in the event itself, different Filipino bloggers including me, PinayDiaspora has been recognized by the Philippine Embassy for my contribution in the creation of the book and for the advocacy that we have been doing to help other fellow OFWs here in Kuwait through online media and communication. This unexpected once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of course doesn't happen everyday and I'm just blessed to be part of this event. So Kudos to all my fellow bloggers! :)

Receiving the recognition for PinayDiaspora by the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait with the Ambassador to Kuwait Hon. Renato Villa

With Congen Atty Raul Dado of the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait

With the author of the book Ms Gracia Amor (R) and other fellow OFSI members and bloggers Mr Renz Leano (L), Mr Mark Averill Tan and Mr Garry Nochefranca (center).

Filipino Events Week

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sat, 22 Aug 2015 14:49:00 +0000

The Pinoy Youth Ministry Salmiya Kuwait (PYMSK) performed an interpretative dance presentation during the Solidarity night of the participants for the 11th Consultation Meeting of International priests and nuns coming from the different parts of the Middle East, Asia, Europe, North and South America last Tuesday night 18 August 2015. The Filipino group composed of students and young professions who have been serving the Salmiya Church community for two years now performed their own rendition for the Heal the World song.

PYMSK group with the Theresian Filipino Community heads Mr Charlie Somera and Mrs Angel Somera

PYMSK with visiting Bishop Rupert and Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara (Diocese of Pasig, Philippines) and Fr. Ben Barrameda (St. Therese Salmiya)

PYMSK with CFC Kuwait heads

Credit to SaintGregorie Production

The Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI-TGFI Kuwait) group held their second session for Batch 8 last 21 August 2015 Friday focusing on One's Life Protections and Avoiding Unnecessary Financial Risks. For more information on the group's upcoming events, check the website for more info. OFSI

Credit to SaintGregorie Production

Are you Financially Secure?

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Mon, 25 May 2015 08:35:00 +0000

Image credit to TGFI

Do you have any savings? Are you even aware how much interest it gives you? Is your savings more than 3-6 months worth of your salary? Will it be enough to cover your needs if tomorrow you will be laid off from your work or your family will need money because of unexpected emergencies?

Do you have a house of your own or do you just rent because you think its practical? Do you even have a car or simply commute because you can't afford to get one?

Have you been paying all your bills, grocery and shopping wants through cash or you charge them as debit from your cards? Do you have some fund set aside to pay for your dream vacation? When you or one of your family members get sick, do you take a loan or ask other people to lend you money because you don't have any left on your wallet?

Are you debt-free or are you like the others who are buried in debt you don't know what to do with it anymore? Do you have any idea how to free yourself from these debts?

If you have kids, can you even send them to good schools and give them the best education possible? Can you even afford your children's needs without touching your active income and savings?

What if you meet your maker tomorrow (knock on wood) and you are your family's breadwinner -- who would be left to support them? Are you even ready at the thought that even without you, your family you would be leaving behind will be ok -- financially speaking?

Do you even know or have the slightest idea how much is your total net worth, assets and liabilities? Are your finances enough to take care -- if not all, some of those needs? These are only few of the basic real-life questions that we all should be able to answer HONESTLY and be actually AWARE to know more about.

Unfortunately Filipino culture makes us shy and awkward to talk about money and anything about finances. It's a very reluctant topic among family members and a somewhat taboo conversation even with friends especially with those you're only acquainted with or of course with strangers since asking someone about their net worth or assets is clearly a sign of prying and disrespecting one's pivacy. Unless the Government would inquire about one's SALN (Statements of Assets and Liabilities), we don't have a choice but to open and share that private information. But is that even healthy not to know? Or are we just in denial not to really know about it?

Opening oneself to public about your financial status would make you fall between being modest or arrogant. But the only important thing about is not actually knowing what you have but knowing what you need. By being honest about your financial needs, you may be able to think ahead, plan ahead and act ahead to prepare for the worse case scenarios that could happen.

Kailangan pa bang antayin na may mangyari na hindi maganda para malaman ang mga kulang at dapat gawin kung pwede naman paghandaan ngayon pa lamang?

So how can we know in order to prepare ourselves to secure our family's financial needs?

The answer is very simple.

EDUCATION.

If you want to know more, click these links to find out how: TRULY RICH CLUB and

OVERSEAS FILIPINO STOCKS INVESTORS

The Global Filipino Bloggers Slambook

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sat, 16 May 2015 11:02:00 +0000

The Global Filipino Bloggers book where PinayDiaspora has been featured!

Blogging is an easy and fun way to communicate and connect virtually to a lot of people all over he world but it also gives a chance for everyone - people of all ages - to try something new and enhance their writing, photography and/or video-related skills that could make or break into a hobby or even as an added means to earn a good income.

The definition above that I have given in one of the Basic Blogging seminars that I did recently with OFSI (Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors) to introduce the world of Blogosphere to everyone especially to OFSI members who are also hardworking OFWs here in Kuwait completely explains my love for this past time hobby that I have been doing for the past 5 years. Like what I have stated before and from the posts that I do on this site, it's very clear that my posts show my personal experiences while living here in Kuwait as an expat.

Today before taking my breakfast, I was surprised to receive a message coming from a friend, Gracia, who was a PEBA-awardee and known OFW blogging advocate worldwide. I have featured her before in one of my previous posts in gratitude for including me in her then-upcoming book that we have been talking about as an ultimate goal for aspiring writer and blogger like us. And guess what? The dream book that we were talking about a few years ago and which I partly helped in doing minor edits is now on sale at Amazon! :) I suddenly feel exhilarated from the news that I've received and I immediately googled Amazon to check it out. The cover design looked simple yet stylish and the few basic contents that I read was really familiar. Reading a few paragraph especially the introductory part made me reminisce the conversations that we both have and the ideals that we all share as part of the Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK) group which she had founded as well. Looking back, this published book is now a great a realization of an OFW's dream to continue pursuing one's goals, passion, advocacy and that God-given set of skills to be a good inspiration to fellow OFWs .

The Global Filipino Bloggers Slambook: OFW Edition has been published successfully last 2nd of February 2015 by Tatay Jobo Elizes Publishing House/CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (USA) and is being sold for $12 ( 3.6 KD or Php 533) only (both Paperback and Ebook editions). The book contains basic information about Blogging and featuring 33 Filipino bloggers worldwide from 2011-2012 with the likes of Fitz Villafuerte, a known OFW Financial advocate based in KSA and of course where yours truly, PinayDiaspora is included! :)

I am just so happy to be part of it and can't wait to get a copy of it! So please let us support the author Ms Gracia Amor, a Filipino OFW Blogging advocate here in Kuwait by buying her book.

Health needs Wealth?

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 13:31:00 +0000

I remember growing up, whenever we'd get sick my Mom would bring us to private hospitals and wouldn't initially bother if we have any cash on hand as admission payment because we always have an HMO card to present. Because of this card, we would get the best treatments possible and be admitted in a comfortable room where we can start to recuperate. Unfortunately, there's this common rule in the Philippines especially for private health care facilities that if you don't have the means, you definitely won't get admitted and given the right kind of treatment that you deserve. Besides, private hospitals function as business entities. Well they do have charities, but let's face it those are very very limited. I also encountered this article from Rappler about how much someone should need in order to pay for one's bill. (LINK)

PhilHealth membership has now been made compulsory for all Filipino Citizens that gives discount for Senior citizens and can slash a couple of pesos from the patient's original bill but would still highly depend if the PhilHealth member has paid his/her contributions

And of course there are the public hospitals and health care centers all around the country. The big ones definitely have the means and capacity as well comparable to known private hospitals and yes, mostly would accept everyone with or without the initial admission fee. Why I say mostly? Because in reality, some public hospitals are now operated under private corporations and because of that you'd need to pay something just to get admitted and treated. So that doesn't seem to have any problem right? Wrong. Why? Because the treatment won't be the same as compared to private hospitals. The facilities were unfortunately either outdated, rusty or that the treatment the patient deserves won't be that good. Just imagine being sick and admitted into a public ward that you share with 10+ sick people like you. That's not comfortable at all. Add the fact that for medicines, you have to pay them separately and the bill would just soar high and people would just be caught in disbelief when they would finally try to settle their bill. They'd think.. Public Hospital ito bakit ganito kalaki ang bill? (This is a Public hospital, why is the bill this expensive?) Truth is -- our government can't shoulder all the bills. They can just help through PhilHealth but unfortunately that's not enough. Seriously.

Receipt and waiting number that I paid for (1KD or 146 pesos) while waiting in line at a public clinic in Kuwait when I got sick the other day

When I went to Kuwait a couple years ago (2011), I was actually fascinated and surprised by this small country's public health care system. Having a health care insurance is compulsory and it is being paid upon getting a valid residence visa here (working or dependent/family). No one is exempted. And from that, every time anyone or any expat resident for that matter to get treated in any public clinic or hospital (from check up to surgeries) you only need to show your valid civil ID or health card insurance (for expats) and pay a minimum amount of 1 KD (roughly 146 pesos as per the current conversion as of this writing) and you'll get the best possible treatment that you deserve. Well there are some issues with Doctors not really checking the problems of their patients carefully where they would just give out packs of Panadol (Paracetamol) for immediate treatment to any disease which coined the term "Ministry of Panadol" but in fairness to those that do are great Doctors, getting admitted to a hospital with first class facilities and given the necessary amount of medicines as part of the treatment for a measly amount of 146 pesos, don't you think that's just good enough? Definitely, especially if you'd compare this country's health care system to the Philippines. Sad reality but true.

Insurance card in Kuwait where it is renewed compulsory together with the Visa

So for ordinary Filipinos like us, how can we be sure that we have enough money to pay for our health care needs if that unfortunate day would come?

The answer is simple: GET PROTECTION!

This would mean tap into the knowledge of having Medical Insurance, Health Insurance, HMOs and other means possible to build that fund specifically catered to meet that unfortunate need that we would all face at one point in our lives.

How can we know about this?

The internet is an open source for all your questions. Just be sure that you are reading the right articles, going to the right websites and listening to the right credible people in order to safeguard your hard earned income for the purpose of getting this protection.

Or, you can simply go to OFSI website to find out how we can help you. :)

Be financially literate OFW!

Stocks Investing Webinar

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Mon, 27 Apr 2015 15:49:00 +0000

In order to reach a huge number of audience, organizers of different advocate groups have tapped the power of technology. Financial literacy groups such as TGFI (The Global Filipino Investor) have started using live webinars as a means to connect with its target audience online not only within the Philippines but around the world all at the same time. Luckily, I got one of the free invites to be part of TGFI Web Academy's recent live webinar last 25th of April, Saturday about "How to Invest in the Stocks Market?" by Mr Aya Laraya of Pesos and Sense and COL Financial. Unfortunately, there's been a couple of glitches during the session due to the tremendous amount of attendees that it tried to accommodate. From the target of 1000+ attendees, the new application that they used limited the attendees to only a 100. This of course created a buzz of disappointed people who have been waiting for hours just to be in sync with Manila's time (majority of attendees are OFWs or based abroad). But since it's a free session, I'm still grateful to have been part of it.

Below is the summary of what went through the one-hour long free webinar session.

Introductions by Mr Floi Wycoco, founder of TGFI

Mr Aya Laraya during the free TGFI webinar

The speaker emphasized on this one which is a HUGE PROBLEM for all types of investors especially the newbies like me.

Mr Aya Laraya, the speaker, differentiated the two methods of Stocks Investing.

The speaker pointed out the strong points of Trading in the stocks market.

But nevertheless insisted that for long-term investors this is the best method of investing in the stocks market especially for those who have a job or other priorities to take care of.

But he of course pointed out that whatever investing strategy that the person would choose, the investor should put a huge emphasis on checking the company's profile and value.

COL Financial is of course one of the Philippine's best and known online stock broker.

Looking back at this experience, it made me realize about the type of investor that I was, if I'm doing the strategy that really fits me and the current application that we are using in OFSI (Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors) for our current batch's online attendees. A couple of questions has also been raised in my mind about its technical efficiency but as compared to TGFI's huge online attendees, we have only limited OFSI's to less than 20. But looking on a larger scale, if in the future we would have that kind of exposure, we should definitely be equipped and ready! This of course made me quite excited especially since a lot of Filipinos are now starting to realize the importance of having a solid financial education and even trying their best to maximize the free learning resources that is given online by these financial advocacy groups.

Great job to TGFI's organizers! :)

Note: To listen to the whole session check the video below.

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See my other posts about my journey towards financial freedom and abundance at Investing 101: The Basics of Financial Freedom, Investing 102: Enriching Financial Literacy and Investing 103: Direct Stocks Investment Part 1

Blogging 101 Seminar

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sun, 26 Apr 2015 16:13:00 +0000

Writing is a passion that I always have. It's the Romeo to my Juliet's love for reading. It's a combination that I always enjoyed since I was young. And speaking is something quite similar as well. It's not just a passion but also something that I know I can naturally do. I'm not bragging or anything, but I am absolutely sure that if I have something to say, I'd say it. More so -- speaking in front a crowd. Funny thing that I don't get the usual jitters whenever I'd try to talk in front of an audience, although sometimes I'd feel a little sweaty but at the time that I would stand up and start to open my mouth, the platform or stage or wherever I'm standing feels like home. Weird, but I do have that kind of feeling. It's like -- you want to share a piece of yourself to your listeners and you're really trying your best to let them know what you want them to know. But unfortunately, that doesn't happen all the time. Some would say I sounded harsh, that I would comment straight to the point to even sound rude or get the tables upside down by making everyone laugh with my crazy humor. Whatever that is, at least I'm still able to get my points across right? XD

Anyway, as part of our group's special sessions, I was tasked to give another talk about Blogging 101 last 17th of April 2015. This time, with only the basics of the basics that I know. This of course made me excited since I would be able to share everyone what I know about blogging. Not that I was an expert since I'm probably still a newbie when ranked on the Blogosphere, but the fact that some people think I have the authority in this matter -- it simply made my heart jump for joy! Too much adjectives? Nah, just feeling happy with what I have accomplished! :)

OFSI Blogging 101 Session last April 17, 2015

Another group picture of future OFSI Bloggers

Oh yeah, they're listening to whatever that I was saying :P

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You can also check these awesome blogs! :)

Goriography

Renz Leano

Georgia

Save the Date Photoshoot

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Tue, 17 Feb 2015 16:49:00 +0000

My signature shot? It just looks cute. <3

"Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame."
Song of Solomon 8:6

Who would have thought that I would be doing this PreNup Photoshoot part 2..tho technically speaking it is a Save-the-Date feature. Anyway they're the same for me, I categorized it under PreNup. XD

Now back to my story.. a friend of mine from SFC, sis Jaque (missyleeloo) has seen my shots from my cousin's (LINK HERE) and she liked it! Wow. That's a nice compliment for me. And of course I said Yes! So again, sis Rona (myjoywaterfall) who's in charge with the productions and I took this opportunity to practice our God-given talent once more (ahem). This was actually a late post since I sought permission from the couple first before posting it here and of course waiting for their official Save-the-Date announcement. By the way we took it last 23rd of January and I had edited all the pics below unless stated. Anyway..here it goes! =)

Edited image credit to: Jacque Gonzalez

Edited image credit to: Jaque Gonzales

I just love this shot.

Again, congrats to this lovely couple..and thank you for the trust to take your photos. =)

Officially Dot Com

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Tue, 17 Feb 2015 15:19:00 +0000

Finally after 4 long years, PinayDiaspora is now a dot com minus the blogspot name! Not that I'm not happy with blogger, which is still obviously my free web host, but the need to be independent (at least the URL part) seemed more appealing than before.

Thankfully though with the help of my fellow OFSI friend Ms. Georgia Lawas (www.lgeorgia.com), I am now the official owner of this URL link at USD33 (10KD) for 3 years. Thanks to GoDaddy and its cheap domain name registry. =) Hopefully though with this added feature, I would feel compelled to write more and update this baby more often. *crossesfingers*

Official email from GoDaddy(dot)com

So cheers to this wonderful awesometastic year for PinayDiaspora blog! =)

Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Mon, 09 Feb 2015 15:33:00 +0000

Education is a key source to uplift one's full potential through learning various trends and knowing the fundamental concepts of an idea by heart. This is not only done through the structured learning process that we undergo from our childhood years but educating oneself is a process that can be done through various means. In order to be effective in a given role or achieve a certain goal, learning has always been a major factor that can help us accomplish our set ideals in life. This is also a MUST in our journey towards creating, planning and achieving our path to financial freedom and abundance.

By learning, we expose ourselves to various activities -- reading books, attending seminars/workshop/talks, listening and watching financial/business-related programs and through different online means. Blogs and other social media platforms like Facebook has paved way for easy and free access to learn more about investment instruments as an example. Different groups has also been established to cater needs of people wanting to find out more options and effective financial instruments. In this era of wanton need to be financially free, people are seeking various ways and means in order to fully sustain that desire for knowledge. Admittedly belonging in that category, I suddenly had that urge to know more ways to prepare for my future and have the life that I have always wanted.

But where would I begin? That's the first question that popped in my head. Thankfully, the internet has provided free access to almost everything that I needed. But the overloaded information in front of me only confused me more. And then, it's as if God heard the desires of my heart. He sent an angel (Renz Leano) that now became my financial mentor. The series of talks that we had about our like-minded set goals and objectives ultimately transpired into a group of other fellow OFWs like us who wished to live a better future for them and their families. Thus the creation of Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) Group in Kuwait.

Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) officer's oath-taking ceremony at the Philippine Embassy in Faiha, Kuwait with Charge d' Affaires Atty. Raul H. Dado last January 24, 2015

Fast forward almost a year has passed since then, my mentor's dream of sharing his advocacy to help our country's economy and stir financial awareness to fellow OFWs and their families has now become a reality. My goal of only knowing where and what to start has now expanded in supporting family, friends and even strangers in planning their own. We have just started and doesn't have much to prove yet but if things are done with humility and honest intentions, positivism will only outshine the negative. This will be a tedious and very, very long journey but I know by the grace of God everything will be on the right track.

Investing 103: Direct Stocks Investment Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sun, 11 Jan 2015 14:30:00 +0000

For more than a year now, I have carefully tracked my direct stocks investments using my online stock broker, COL Financial. So far I am proud to say that I have attained past my initial target of 10% gain/loss in my portfolio (dividends not yet included). I've made bad choices along the way due to sudden burst of emotions as a newbie and crazy excitement which led me to jump along the bandwagon to test shallow waters. But hopefully, with those experiences which I now regard as my learning point in my young journey to financial freedom and abundance, it simply taught me two very important things -- stick with the fundamental values of the company and do cost averaging with a twist.

My portfolio as of January 9, 2015. Note the box in red.
NOTE: The Gain/Loss % will vary depending if you have sold your shares, locked in profits and/or added shares to your existing stocks. I will further explain it on my next posts. =)

Stocks investing isn't new, even in the Philippine setting either. The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSEI) had been continuously operating since its inception in the late 1920s. Unfortunately, this method of paper-based investment has not been widely spread among the common middle to lower class population due to its "for-the-rich-only-image". Back in the days, finding a stock broker and seeking platforms for stocks investing is not as easily accessible as it is now and investment products which have low minimum investment deposits are also not commonly offered by financial companies and/or banks unless you'd inquire thoroughly about it. If you are in the stock market know-how and obviously have the means back in the day, you're lucky to know this pot of gold. But as the world changes, people are now in the loop of getting more financially aware and seeking to be literate enough to care more about their financial situation and future retirement options. Thankfully, the technology that we have through the use of internet which paved the way for the creation of easy and accessible online stock brokerage platforms gives everybody a fair chance at this form of investing.

Due to this sudden demand, traditional financial companies opted to upgrade their system and adopt this new technological change. As of this writing there are more than 5 companies that offer accesible online stock investing platforms accredited by SEC. Each have their own different features to boost that entices potential investors. Out of these handful of companies, I carefully chose my online stock broker due to its proven 20 years record in the industry.

On a personal note, I use COL Financial because of their features. Recommendation from friends and numerous positive reviews that I have read on the internet also added to that decision. But among these, I primarily chose the company because they allow OFWs like me who are living abroad to process my application without any hassle of having to go back home for issues of personal appearance. I also find their site easy to navigate, their updated articles about the stock market easy to understand for a non-business major like me and a lot of friendly-to-use options. I'm not in any way connected with this company nor advertising them but simply putting my two cents on my decision when I applied to start my direct stocks investment. Like what I have stated, there are other companies to choose from and it would always depend on the potential investor's personal preference.

For information on which online accredited stocks broker to choose, I have made a list below with with their minimum amount for deposit. Click the name of the company and you will be directly linked to their site.

LIST OF 2014 ACCREDITED ONLINE STOCK BROKERS IN THE PHILIPPINES
(Some changes may appear as I will try to update this list once in a while)

AB Capital Securities Inc.
Minimum Investment: 10,000 Php

Abacus Securities Corporation
Minimum Investment: 10,000 Php

Accord Capital Equities Corporation
Minimum Investment: 5,000 Php

Angping and Associates Securities, Inc.
Minimum Investment: 5,000 Php

BPI Securities Corporation
Minimum Investment: None if you have an account with BPI

COL Financial Group Inc. (former Citiseconline)
Minimum Investment: 5,000 Php (Easy Investment Program/EIP)

F. Yap Securities Inc.
Minimum Investment: 25,000 Php

First Metro Securities Brokerage Corporation
Minimum Investment: 25,000 Php (initial for new clients)

RCBC Securities Inc.
Minimum Investment: Check with the company for more info.

Wealth Securities Inc.
Minimum Investment: 10,000 Php

Regarding account opening, requirements and other necessary information, it is highly recommended to CONTACT each company and inquire for further details.

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See my other posts about my journey towards financial freedom and abundance at Investing 101: The Basics of Financial Freedom and Investing 102: Enriching Financial Literacy

New Year's Resolutions

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sun, 11 Jan 2015 13:25:00 +0000

All of us every single year, we're a different person. I don't think were the same person all our lives. - Steven Spielberg

January feels special in a very different way. Not only because its my birth month which would remind me that I would age again another year (Thank God) but it's technically the representation of the alpha in the Roman Calendar that is commonly used. This month marks as the official start of another year full of hopes, dreams, desires, wishes, regrets, failures, disappointments, frustrations and so on. Its the start of yet another crazy yet interesting life story.

Now why does every year people feel compelled to come up with their very own version of New Year's Resolutions? What the hell are these lists really for? According to my ever so reliant best friend Google, a "New Year's resolution is a tradition wherein a person makes a promise to do an act of self-improvement." So literally speaking, people are making lists of good deeds to do to reform oneself to probably be a much better citizen of the world. That's awesome. Really.

But only if these things are not just written on paper and would soon be forgotten after 24 hours.

Unfortunately, I, myself has failed so many times in making sure that I would follow or even do my supposed New Year's resolutions. Since I was a kid I always have this habit of listing the top 10 things that I would need to do to change myself for the better. But sadly, out of these usual 10 things that I would come up with, it would already be a miracle if I would have done at least one of them! Most are actually so-good-to-be-true, nonsensical dreams that only appears great on written paper.

What's supposed to be the problem here?

The answer is Me. Myself. And I.

It's that simple.

Honestly, I tend to be lazy in doing them or probably less inspired to achieve them. But looking back at my favorite yearly New Year's resolutions that would always be a repetition of last year, they seemed quite impossible to accomplish at some point. Imagine, promising myself not to argue with anybody for a year or to be always nice to everyone no matter what? That would make me a Saint already! But kidding aside.. reviewing them now, I now that I would've done them only that I just need to push myself more and that's what has been lacking for the past years.

My old 2013 Journal

But somehow, a miracle occurred. When I was cleaning my stack of yearly journals and stacking the old ones in a box, I came to read a page where I did my 2013 New Year's resolutions. And guess what? I actually, seriously, surprisingly and honestly did 90% of them! That really put a smile on my face like a crazy kid. Maybe I did have a change of heart somewhere. Because of that, it suddenly inspired me to continue my own tradition of self-improvement on a yearly basis. It may be very difficult and unrealistic most of the times, but the fact that I decided to list them down simply means that I honestly admit to myself all of my negativity and I fully accept the challenge of changing them to make myself a much better version of me. Besides, change would always need to start within oneself by accepting oneself fully -- from the worst to the best.

So did I continue to be successful with my 2014 New Year's resolutions? The answer is surprisingly yes again, which of course made me more than excited to write now my 2015 New Year's Resolutions. :D

1. Be more thankful and happy.

2. Be more accepting and forgiving.

3. Be more patient and understanding.

4. Be more honest and open.

5. Love more.

Investing102: Enriching Financial Literacy

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 14:26:00 +0000

Ms Georgia Subido of OFSI talking about the importance of Mutual Funds as an investment instrument

What is Financial Literacy?

From the word itself, it simply means being knowledgeable enough about the importance of having good financial standing and the ways to achieve one's financial set goals and objectives.

But how can someone become Financially Literate?

The answer is simple. EDUCATION.

By education, I'm not saying that the person should be an Accountant, have a Business degree or even earn an MBA for that matter, though that would be a good advantage but at least have undergone basic financial literacy seminar/workshop/class to be aware of its importance. Learning can also be done through oneself by reading business related news and informative blogs that tackles financial awareness, through watching financial-related programs, listening to investment-centered podcasts and clearly the most common of all is by simply attending financial literacy seminars. Obviously this doesn't always come for free since there are operational expenses to be paid like the venue, speakers, materials, food etc. Unfortunately because of these factors these seminars would cost more than a thousand pesos. But even though that's the case, the valuable learnings would definitely come in handy, presented in a realistic manner easy to be understood by everyone and are of course priceless.
From my experience in attending financial literacy seminars, the speakers are always presented to be credible enough in the field wherein they not only discuss about the scope of their lecture in an understandable manner, talk about a couple of mind-wrecking business jargons, tips and tricks on how to grow one's investments and meet financial goals but as well as share their own personal financial experiences from which the attendees can relate to. Overall, this simply connects to the fact that experience is really a great teacher.

Mr Renz Leano, founder of OFSI, talking about the importance of being financially literate

So where can we attend Financial Literacy seminars?

Now that's a good question with a lot of answers. In the Philippines, there are a couple of financial literacy groups from Bo Sanchez's Truly Rich Club to IMG to Colayco Foundation. These groups sometimes cater to similar needs with different objectives but still present different strategies when it comes to investments, business and personal finance. IMG for one, since I'm a member myself, centers its mission on its 5 Pillars to Financial Freedom which in simple terms is all about building one's financial foundation one-by-one from having an emergency fund, to clearing one's debt, protecting one's self by having an insurance and so on. And of course, it should also be clearly noted that by participating in these organizations, one should pay a membership fee or regular contribution for that matter.

For someone living outside of the country, like me, the easiest and accessible way is through free webinars uploaded on youtube or other video platform websites, blogs and seasonal financial awareness programs offered by social groups in partnership with the Philippine Embassy to enlighten OFWs on how to manage their money.

Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) group based in Kuwait after attending a successful Stocks 101 learning session. Credit to the OFSI in house photographer.

Luckily, here in Kuwait, I was invited to be part of a recently established organization called the Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) which advocates to teach free financial literacy for all Filipinos focused on Stocks Investing. The group's main objective is not only to aid free financial guidance especially when it comes to stocks investment but as well as build awareness on the possibilities on how to achieve one's monetary set goals through this pecuniary instrument but also in order to help our country's economy through participating in the stock market. The group started small through like-minded friends which shares the same desire to be financially free and abundant. Through OFSI, its founder and main group members are hoping to encourage more kababayans to be financially literate by providing Basic Financial Literacy seminar specifically catered for OFWs since the people behind this cause are also OFWs themselves. Although I'm new in this field of financial learning, the road to financial freedom looks bright and really exciting!

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See my very first post about my journey towards financial freedom and abundance at Investing 101: The Basics of Financial Freedom

Cariñosa Philippine Folk Dance

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Sat, 24 May 2014 17:46:00 +0000

Last 23rd of May, the Pinoy Youth Ministry in Salmiya Kuwait showcased a popular Filipino Folk Dance called Cariñosa representing the beautiful culture and tradition of the Philippines in front of different Ambassadors, selected Kuwaiti officials and Catholic parishioners at the Al Zumerida Palace Hotel in Salwa. The event was organized as a "Family Dinner for a Cause" by the Catholic community of Kuwait City Church for the completion of the cathedral in Bahrain.

PYMSK in traditional Filipino costume

Cariñosa Dance Presentation

Video courtesy of SaintGregorie Productions

The presentation lasted for less than 8 minutes combined with colorful video presentation showcasing the beautiful culture and popular tourist destinations of the country.

Investing101: The Basics of Financial Freedom

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 15:21:00 +0000

I love to travel. I love to go shopping. I love to dine and taste different kinds of food. I want to experience what life has to offer. But with my measly income, how can I experience all of this? I'm not even a fan of credit cards and I obviously don't want to be buried in debts just to cater to these wants.

Besides, I'm not getting any younger. I'm already in my late 20s. Five years from now I have plans of settling down (in God's will). I also want to own a house, send my children to good schools and live a comfortable life without thinking much about financial problems. I don't want to work 24/7 a day and live in complete poverty. I want to enjoy my life..financially free to be exact.

But the big question is.. HOW?

When I was in school, everyone would tell me that I need to study hard. Why? So I can finish school and get a good job afterwards. No one encouraged me to try and pursue having my own business. The old mentality of Filipino families is that when you have good education, you are guaranteed to get a good job, you can work abroad and earn good dollars. Funny thing is, not everyone who works abroad earn good dollars. Not everyone has the same rags-to-riches story after working abroad.

So how can I be financially free? From reading tons of articles, I found these easy steps that I'm currently following...and hopefully will continue to do so. *crossesfingers*

STEP 1 is important. KNOW ONESELF. Knowing one's goals in life is important. On my part I would have this little notebook to write down all the things that I want to accomplish and that includes being financially free in the near future. Somehow seeing my goal written down motivates me and obviously this gives a positive sense of inspiration to achieve that objective. My target goal: earn Php XX millions after 5 years. Too big? I don't care.

STEP 2 is obvious. CLEARING ALL DEBTS. Thankfully though I don't have any credit cards, loans or personal debt from anyone. I'm not saying that Credit cards are bad, since they're handy especially if you need instant cash, but based from my Mom's experience -- the interest rate will eat you up. (As of this writing the rate is around ~3% a month of your total accumulated expenses) For example you have Php 30,000 debt on you credit card and you have to pay Php~900 (interest rate) + other charges monthly. Imagine what you can buy with Php 900.

STEP 3 is simple. LEARN HOW TO BUDGET. This is clearly organizing your thoughts on what you want. Check the video for more info credited to Pesos and Sense. :)

STEP 4 needs discipline and connected with the previous step. ALLOCATE A FIXED AMOUNT FROM MONTHLY SALARY FOR SAVINGS. This will not only teach you discipline to save from your monthly income, but it will also teach you the strategy called Compounding Interest. This simple matter of saving up can give you many options for your future needs where you can build your own funds. One important fund that people must have is called an Emergency Fund (3x worth your salary if you're single, 6x if you're married) which is supposedly good as cash that you can rely on when something unlikely happens like losing your job, etc. Dream Fund is something that most people want but never really thought of saving much for. This of course includes money saved for leisure activities and even for shopping for expensive items that's on your I-want-to-have-list. Another important fund which many people doesn't consider much is Retirement Fund, which most Filipinos rely on their future SSS pension. I'm not saying you need to rely on it 101% but there's a good chance that due to inflation rates, your pension 20-30-40 years from now won't be considered that much. Overall, there's like different other funds to enumerate but it still depends on you on where you'd want your savings to be used in the near future. For a good visual example, check the video again.

STEP 5 is a must. GET INSURED. When people hear insurances, they'll think of pre-need companies (for education etc) that went wrong. But insurances, primarily life insurance is fixed, stable and has been in the country for a century. Specifically a life insurance, is a service that would ensure that whatever happens to yo, your beneficiaries would be taken care of. You can of course get a health insurance, which can help you get covered when you and your family members are sick. Thankfully though here in Kuwait I have a health insurance that is compulsory when the visa is renewed. But the question is - what if I'm in the Philippines and *knockonwood* I would need an HMO to cover my expenses and I don't have one? That's a good question right? For more info, check this LINK.

STEP 6 needs focus. KNOW WHERE TO INVEST. Thankfully there are a lot of financial instruments available for people to invest. There's the stocks, mutual funds, UITFs, treasury bills, bonds, etc. Since I'm a fan of Pesos and Sense videos, check this out.

These steps can be personalized according to your needs, but bottom line is.. when it comes to financial freedom it's all about having focus, discipline and knowing what you really want. :)

PYMSK

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 12:54:00 +0000

Life is all about changes and one of these changes struck me last year. Who would have thought that aside from my SFC family, I would continue to venture out my spiritual journey in serving God as an usherette during the Holy Eucharist? I'm Catholic-schooled but never did I imagined myself dressed in a formal church uniform while greeting people and leading them towards their seats before the mass would start. Nor would I participate voluntarily and happily in any church-related activities that would consume most of my supposed weekend and serve others. But a year has passed, a lot has happened and I'm still part of PYMSK or the Pinoy Youth Ministry in Salmiya Kuwait organized by the Filipino parish priest in St. Therese Church, Fr. Ben Barrameda.

This year marks the Pinoy youth group's first year anniversary. Even us, didn't really expect that the group would survive this long. Obviously, groups are just good during their inception and count towards a couple of weeks until it'll die a slow and painful death. But PYMSK proved different - or at least that's how we all see it. Hopefully though this won't be our last anniversary but would only just be the start.

PYMSK 1st Anniversary Video. Credit to SaintGregorie

I am Beloved

noreply@blogger.com (Pinay Diaspora) — Thu, 17 Oct 2013 08:19:00 +0000

I am a living proof of God’s victory.

As proud as it may seem, I am confident enough to say that I am. I'm only in my late 20s and haven’t really proved anything much to the world, but as I recount the years of my existence, I am 101% certain.

I've experienced joy, frustrations, heartaches, depression and betrayals. My life issues may not be as appalling, bold, tear-jerker and significant as the others but in my world, they are as big and horrendous as any problem can be. I even doubted at one point the reason for my way of life, but interestingly never felt uncertain that God existed. I'm a control freak and I like things to go my way. I've been rebellious at times but would always find my way back. I've got plans and have always dreamed of fame, fortune and pleasure. But unfortunately whatever I do, God never gave me what I wanted.

Instead, he would always give me what I need.

My decision to come to Kuwait came in a jiffy. My salary working in the Government sector is not enough but I'm about to be promoted permanently. My career’s doing great although my routine has turned dreary. My social life is also blossoming, with great people surrounding me. I've also got future plans to travel and do things that I've always wanted to do. But somewhere in my comfortable life..I felt lacking. You know that weird sense of emptiness that people at my age shouldn't be feeling.

Is that what you call mid-life crisis?

Dude, seriously?

I have absolutely no idea. I am happy and I know that I feel content somehow.. but the feeling of wanting to do something and be somewhere won’t go away. So when the chance of Kuwait came up, BAM! I’m out of the country in an instant. Sitting on the plane bound for Kuwait with my Mom in tow is not a picture I would want to remember for the rest of my life, more so convincing myself the reality that just dawned on me. I’m suddenly unemployed, broke, no social life and going to live with my parents for the next year or so. Convincing me of my new reality because of the out-of-the-blue decision suddenly came to haunt me.

Anyway I also do want to find a sense of adventure and something that’s out of my control right? But then you can lie to everyone but definitely not to yourself. So what’s the main reason why I did that?

Escape.

I want to be something else. To be livin’ la vida loca!

I want to have an adventure, to do the things what other people have experienced. I want to have a fun, roller-coaster-kind-of-life. Besides life is too short to waste on unimportant things and we obviously live once. Just like the old saying goes, Carpe Diem!

Fast forward more than two years from that plane ride I'm still stuck living in with my parents and only earning an income through my freelance online job. My idea of adventure didn't happen for things that I found myself lacking, financially so to speak. I'm also still patiently on hold waiting for a more stable work application that I have processed for the last two years and counting. Even though I've decided to give up for the nth time, but somehow when I'm on the verge of doing that small abrupt wake-up calls out of nowhere would overturn my decision to stick with it through thick and thin. It’s probably called divine intervention? No idea really, but I guess it’s a way that God tells me to be a bit more patient. Yes, patience. It’s a very big word that I have obediently been doing and applying to my life ever since.

But then, amongst the struggles that I'm still undergoing, I do however found myself going back to serving God - faithfully and sincerely. Of all places, why in Kuwait? I don’t actually know the answer but I just found myself going with the flow of things. I even developed a new kind social life that is centered with my Church friends and SFC community.

I obviously couldn't really afford expensive things with the very small income that I have, but interestingly I was able to buy myself a brand new Iphone, re-stabilized my wrecked savings account and even paid for this Dubai trip. I even found myself splurging on branded clothes, shoes, bags, accessories and eating at expensive restaurants without asking money from my parents at some point. Amazingly I was also able to help a cousin pay for his tuition from the surplus that I got from my freelance job. Yes, surplus from a very small income that came from a work unexpectedly. I even had the chance to do the things I found myself passionate about like photography and writing after letting myself be in complete surrender to the call of service.

But what’s more interesting? For the past 27 years, I never really found myself committing to any kind of relationship. It’s not that I am scared of love or being in love but I just probably never felt the need to. I thought I am content but then one day God gave me that unexpected gift that gives me joy – an answered prayer. Hopefully.

All of these blessings suddenly poured unexpectedly. Things I never really thought would come amidst the choices and sacrifices I made prior to deciding to follow His call. Before I may not really know their significance or why these hardships have occurred, but today I am proud to speak out my realizations -that they are God’s victories, my victories.

Honestly, I could go on a different way. I can keep a deaf ear to His call for patience, faithfulness and service. If I hadn't been obedient to His call, I wouldn't be here. I still would have been stuck in my old life where I thought I was really happy with. But life is all about changes and these changes are inevitable. Even though I didn't get the things that I planned for and the dreams that I have always dreamed of, I know God is leading me to the path where I'm supposed to be not where I want to be.

Every day is a challenge but every day is also a victory from God that I would be proud to cherish.