Category: Press Room

You may be experiencing a hard time figuring out how you can send or receive money from your loved ones abroad and the Philippines, especially today that fewer banks are operating due to the pandemic. There are also longer lines because of the health protocols implemented in different banks. It’s good to know that, somehow, other businesses are teaming up to accommodate the people’s needs during the COVID-19 crisis. Two of the famous money-sending companies in the country and abroad joined forces for cross-border remittances.

Cebuana Lhuillier and Western Union have come together to give their customers a more convenient way to connect with their loved ones. This partnership allows CebuanaLhuillier customers to transact through its 2,500 branches and send and receive money via Western Union’s global network in more than 200 countries and territories. The wider reach and more accessible remittance process will meet the needs of the Filipinos locally and internationally.

According to Cebuana Lhuillier’s CEO and president Jean Henri Lhuillier, “This partnership with Western Union is a prudent step in ensuring accessibility for the millions of Filipinos around the world and in paving the way for a future-proof network with presence in almost all parts of the globe.”

Cebuana Lhuillier, as one of the microfinance services providers, and Western Union believe that they can help many Filipinos amid the COVID-19 pandemic as people find it challenging to get their needs, including financial services. Both companies know that their strategic collaboration will be reliable and a quick cash solution to reach more customers.

“In an age when speed, reliability, and convenience mean everything, we are increasing the number of touchpoints where our customers can access our services and connect with their loved ones around the world,” said Jean Claude Farah, president of the Western Union Global Network.

Because of the significant alliance between the two companies, Cebuana Lhuillier continued to put forward its vision to empower Filipinos through financial services. Western Union, on the other hand, can help other businesses to expand their global reach.

To guide you in sending money from abroad to the Philippines, you may follow these simple steps:

• Visit Western Union and fill out the r form.
• Along with your valid ID, submit the accomplished form.
• Give the total amount to be paid to the branch personnel.
• Remember to secure the official receipt or your proof of remittances.
• Give the remittance number to the receiver or beneficiary from the Philippines.

We advise that the receiver should provide the control number and present it with an ID upon claiming of remittance.

For those who need to send money from the Philippines to a loved one abroad,

• You should visit any Cebuana Lhuillier branch and fill out the Pera Padala
• With your form, present your valid ID and your 24k card (if you are a 24k cardholder) to the branch personnel.
• Give the total amount to be paid to the branch personnel.
• Secure the Pera Padala form.
• Don’t forget to provide the receiver or beneficiary the 10-digit control number.

Aside from remittance, Cebuana Lhuillier acts as a cash agent for its rural bank and provides micro-savings bank account to millions of Filipinos. It also provides digital access such as eCebuana for a faster and more convenient way in transactions.

About Western Union

Meanwhile, Western Union serves customers worldwide through innovation– from a fast-growing digital network of web, app, and the largest number of Agent retail locations across the world. They also help not only the consumers but businesses offering convenient options to meet their business needs.

Lhuiller believes that their partnership will help nurture their growing clientele, as well as give more people a chance to be part of  faster and easier transactions to help each other financially, “We are more than thrilled to collaborate with Western Union as their company values line up perfectly with our core of facilitating financial inclusion for the underserved Filipinos and expanding our reach makes that all the more possible.”

As the Philippines is the fourth largest remittance-receiving country globally, the collaboration will surely help a lot of Filipinos. Giving them access to Western Union and vise versa, anytime and anywhere in the globe, will save a lot of time and can ensure safety during this health crisis. Through the simple procedure of Pera Padala and the use of digital applications, you can now send and receive money quickly.

To make it more convenient, Western Union provides you with their Agent Locator to help you find the nearest accredited remittance locations for your transactions. It will guarantee your convenience as you don’t have to travel and expose you to places with COVID-19 cases. In addition to this, you may visit the Cebuana Lhuillier website for their open branch locator and make an online transaction appointment before visiting your preferred branch. In this way, you won’t have to wait in line for your turn, and you can skip filling out the tedious forms. How easy is that? So, what are you waiting for? Transact with us now!

We bet that you’re longing for an adventure or a relaxing getaway! But because of the quarantine, many air, land, and water transportation have been banned bans and restrictions to travel both locally and internationally have been placed. This health crisis has left people around the world with limited travel options. We’ve seen as well that the government is putting guidelines before you’ll be allowed to travel.

With that, here’s what you should know before going on a trip.

Get yourself tested

Before you decide to go out of your house, you should make sure that you don’t have any of these following COVID-19 symptoms.

• The most common symptoms are:
  • Fever
  • Dry cough
  • Tiredness
• Less common symptoms:
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Aches and pains
  • Diarrhea
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Rash on the skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes
• Serious symptoms:
  • Loss of speech or movement
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or pressure

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms you should isolate yourself first and intend not to go out anymore. You may also call the Department of Health (DOH) hotline ((02) 894 COVID (26843) or 1555) or your barangay for their instructions and/or medical care.

Wear protective equipment

People are required to wear protective equipment especially if you’re taking public transportation. These are highly recommended to use as everyday protection when going outside of your house. Such equipment includes the following:

• Face mask – place it carefully to cover the mouth and nose and tie securely to minimize the gaps between the face and the mask. Avoid touching the mask when outside,
• Face shield – this should cover your forehead down to your chin, and both your ears.

You may also put on a pair of gloves, if you want, so you can avoid direct handling of possibly contaminated items while you go shopping. Then, make sure that the equipment you used will be cleaned and washed after. If you’re using a disposable face mask, you should properly dispose of it by putting it in a separate ‘yellow color-coded plastic bag’ (for biomedical waste collection). This will help you prevent the virus from spreading into your house and helps protect garbage collectors too.

Carry all the essentials

Make sure that you all have with you the necessary things that you need for your hygiene. You can pack up some pairs of gloves, masks, wipes, alcohol, and hand sanitizers. Regularly use your alcohol when you’re not wearing gloves. You should treat everyone as a potential carrier to be more cautious. With that, you should avoid passing any of your essentials to another person.

You can also take some toothpick with you and use them to push the elevator or ATM buttons without directly touching them. Remember as well that it will be helpful if you put your devices and documents in polyethylene bags or containers while passing through security checks in different establishments.

Get medical and travel history

Part of the travel guidelines issued by the Philippine government and other countries, you should be prepared to show your medical and travel histories before allowing you to enter their province or country. These will prove that you haven’t been ill that might indicate that you were a virus carrier and their record in contact tracing. Make sure to have at least updated records from the past 14 days to help you get through the checks.

It’s understandable that most of us still need to go out for work and for some errands especially now that most of the cities and provinces are in a more relaxed quarantine. Just make sure that you will practice social distancing and know what you need to do and have.

Moreover, if you are part of a few who are privileged to have their own vehicle, you still need to be careful (not just with the COVID-19) as accidents may come in the way. To make you protected, Cebuana Lhuillier offers you its innovative microinsurance product for your vehicle. This vehicle insurance is called Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) insurance ready to provide you financial protection against physical damage or bodily injury caused by vehicular accident. Plus, if you get insured, you may have a chance to win a new motorcycle to help you and your loved ones in their solo travel. With every purchase of CTPL, you can have a one (1) e-raffle entry.

If you want to know more about our services and products, visit us at our www.cebuanalhuiller.com

It is in the nature of a Filipino to help his or her loved ones during a time of crisis. Whenever they’re in need, we are always the first ones to act. May it be night or day, rain or shine, we are always first on the scene, always ready to help. Sometimes, the help they require aren’t really in the form of material things, such as a helpful advice or a listening ear towards their daily stress. However, one main concern that usually pops up is always something that involves financials. Of course, this concern isn’t new at all. You may have had relatives in the past who were urged to borrow a few amounts from you due to unforeseen circumstances, and you, the kindhearted loved one is always happy to comply. The act of sending money towards another region is a typical activity within the Filipino culture, after all. Hardworking parents would send money towards their kids in the province for their education, while middle-aged working class people would remit money towards their parents as well in a reverse form of this act, though the latter is more common than the other.

Now, at first glance, money remittance may look to function in only a singular process, namely, the sender would have to go to their nearest money remittance branch, fill in a form, submit that completed form together with the money, then wait for the teller to provide them with the receipt and control number, which in turn would be given to the receiver of the cash via text message. It all looks permanent and simple, so much that even the youngest member of your family would be able to describe the very same process for you if you were to ask. However, the advent of technology brought in alternative processes which definitely made it much easier for people to receive their money in no time. These processes utilized the different forms of technology, which in turn forever changed the singular image of “money remittance” as a whole. Don’t believe us? Here are just a few major examples.

• Via bank to bank transfer

In 2017, the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas) found that 15.8 million Filipinos have their own bank accounts. Years had since passed, and obviously, that number may have grown in the thousands (and even millions) in that short span of time. In such case, one of the alternatives to the usual money remittance process would be a bank to bank money transfer. This can be done in one or two ways, but basically, the sender may send over the amount from his account towards the account of the receiver. Now, this process used to be singular too, in a way that the sender has to go to his nearest bank branch and deposit the money in the bank account of the receiver. Nowadays, he or she may simply log-in in his/her banking app, then transfer the money with only a few clicks on their smartphone. This is even more flexible due to the fact that both the sender and the receiver of the money do not even need to be using the same bank. If the receiver has a different bank than the sender, they would still be able to receive the deposited or transferred cash amount, though inter-banking transactions may cost the sender a little bit of fee. Either way, this seems to be a well-accepted alternative nowadays, since it would save everyone time. Just think about it, if you have the app installed on your phone, you no longer have to line up in the bank, with just a few clicks, the money would be wired towards your friend or loved ones.

• Via online money remittance

Now, as flexible as bank to bank money transfers may be, no one can ever replace the main purveyors of money transfer services, which is the remittance centers. Cebuana Lhuillier has been at the forefront of this service since the beginning (aside from their pawning service, of course), which is why they are the go-to option if you’re aiming for a more traditional, yet, modern take on money remittance. Cebuana Lhuillier’s online money remittance is done via an app as well, but instead of an online banking app, it is done with an online pawnshop and money remittance app, namely, the newly introduced eCebuana App. It’s fairly easy to use as well, with a lot of options. The sender can either choose to send the amount towards a money remittance branch, towards a Micro Savings account, or towards the recipient’s own bank account. Again, this may be as convenient and flexible as an online money transfer. The only downside may be that the recipient would need to go outdoors to withdraw the amount from an ATM or a money remittance branch, but the process is fast and reliable so they wouldn’t be outdoors for a long time, reducing any risk of being caught up in the pandemic.

• Via bank to money remittance partner

Cebuana Lhuillier isn’t new to developing and evolving their services for the convenience of the Filipino people, which is why it shouldn’t be a surprise that they’ve recently signed up in partnership with one of the leading banks in the Philippines, namely, with BPI or Bank of the Philippine Islands to introduce the new BPI to Cash. This is great news for BPI account holders who do not have the time to visit their nearest branch, especially during the pandemic. The process is fairly simple as well:

1. The sender may go to https://bpitocash.com/ and select Cebuana Lhuillier from the options.
2. He/she would then need to enter the full amount to be sent, followed by the full name of the receiver.
3. The sender would then need to log-in to their BPI online account and choose fund source.
4. They would then need to enter the OTP sent to the number registered to their BPI online account.
5. After that, they may send the cash reference number to the receiver. The receiver would need to present this cash reference number to the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch in order to acquire the cash.

With all of that being said, nothing beats the Filipino spirit of camaraderie and love. After all, it is the duty of every Filipino to look after each other, especially during the time of crisis and the pandemic. Of course, Cebuana Lhuillier is always there to back them up with the arduous task of sending money to the people that they care about, evolving their businesses and services to cater to every Filipino’s needs.

The rainy season is finally upon us. After months and months of extreme sunlight and unbearable heat, you can finally feel the relief, knowing that you would no longer (at least for this particular season) wake up full of sweat. Now, the relief from the extreme heat isn’t just the positive thing that people are expecting out of this change of weather. No, there is something far better, more critical, and noteworthy about the arrival of the rainy season – savings. The thing about the summer season is that we’d usually do everything within our reach to stay cool. Whether you’d do it manually (a handy folding fan) or mechanically (an electric fan), the goal is fundamentally the same. You want to get rid of that unwanted heat, everyone does. So the rainy season provides an opportunity for us to do away with most of these. Still skeptical? Well, here are a few examples of these opportunities in saving during the cool, windy, and drizzly season. Keep in mind that this isn’t really the most comprehensive list of examples. We might miss a few along the way, nonetheless, this is the most common ones during this particular season.

• Time to turn off the fans.

The only reason you’re using electric fans during the summer is because you wouldn’t want to retain your surrounding’s hot temperature. There is no breeze, no wind, no cool circulation, unless you turn on your electric fan. Yes, others may argue that the wind generated by the fan may also come out hot, but that is still better than nothing. At least you’d be able to circulate that hot air well enough for your living room to be somewhat cool around sunset. This all changes during the rainy season, when you no longer need to turn on your fan. The thing about rain is that, it’s not only wet, but it also brings with it strong, cool winds, as if it came straight from your refrigerator. The circulation begins to change, with your surrounding air becoming more comfortable, more tolerable, and more acceptable than summer air. Now, are you able to save just by turning off your electric fans? Yes, of course! Believe it or not, electric fans, when all utilized simultaneously, may consume the same amount of electricity that an air conditioner does. Recent studies have shown that all it takes is nine (9) electric fans, all nine of them to be working simultaneously to be able to generate at least the same amount of electric consumption that one air conditioner does. Just think about that. If you happen to live in a spacy house with multiple rooms, and your family members aren’t able to tolerate the heat during summer, then you’d probably have to turn on your fans all the time. This doesn’t bode well for your budget, knowing that you consume all of those electricity on a daily basis. At least, during the rainy season, you can turn off all your fans and let the cool wind flow in. Not only would you be able to conserve energy, you’d also sleep at night comfortably, knowing that you’d finally be able to save when the next bill arrives.

• A free wash for your home.

Water has always been the most important resource for everyone. We may need food, electricity, and money to get by each day, but without water, that all amounts to nothing. Of course, we don’t just use water for drinking, we also use it for cleaning. You’d do your laundry with water, you’d wash your front yard with water, and you’d rinse your roof with water. Now, as with every available resource we use on a daily basis, there are monthly fees to be paid. Same as with electricity, our government charges us for water usage. The more you use or consume, the more that you’d have to pay. Even if it wasn’t you who opened the tap directly, even if it was a careless family member, you still have to pay for it as a whole. The good news is, there are always alternatives to consuming water from your tap or faucets. Rain water, for example, would be very abundant during the rainy season, hence, why you should think about gathering a bucket or two each time it rains. You can also forget about trying to wash your roof or front yard during a hot, sunny weather, as rainfall would be your natural lifesaver, especially if you wouldn’t want to exert extra effort in cleaning the whole house. One heavy drizzle would be enough for your outdoor yard to look sleek and clean after a high-pressure wash. Just think about the gallons of water you’d save each that it rains. Subtract that from your usual monthly usage of water and you’d be able to save a couple of hundreds from your next water bill.

• Avoid the rain, stay home.

Believe it or not, almost everyone would be able to save on transportation expenses whenever it rains. There is something about rain that affects a person’s motivation to travel outside.  Even if they were planning to do so, the cold, rainy weather may bring in that feeling of laziness and sleepiness, thus eliminating any urge to go outdoors. This is similar to how students feel during a rainy school day. Even in spite of their examinations on that very day, they would be reluctant to go to school. Somehow, we adults never grew from this, hence, why you may sometimes feel hesitant to go to work at the very sight of a cloudy morning. Now, due to the pandemic, people haven’t really gone out of their homes, except for when they need to fetch groceries, but that wouldn’t stop others from going about to do some unessential errands, which isn’t really a good idea when there’s a virus on the loose. At least the rain would stop them from committing that fatal mistake. Just think about it, the transportation fare has been high even before the pandemic began, so just imagine how high it is now, especially as there is a scarcity of rides and PUV. Think of all the hundreds you’ll be able to save just by staying at home during a rainy day, both in the context of your budget and of your community.

With all of these in mind, you may be looking for a well-trusted name that would safely value the security of your hard-earned money and savings during the rainy weather. Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings services. At its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, but doesn’t require a maintaining balance. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier now!

Cebuana Lhuillier has always been at the forefront of every Filipino’s financial needs. Whenever someone needs cash, Cebuana Lhuillier is here to help. Of course, they’ve been around for decades, and their business has evolved in many ways, offering more services as the years went by, so is it any wonder why they are one of the most recognizable brands in the Philippines? The thing you should know about Cebuana Lhuillier is that, in spite of their many offered services, they haven’t forgotten their roots – Pawning. While other brands started out strong, faltering along the way due to the loss of their own business identity, Cebuana Lhuillier avoided this pitfall by playing to their strengths, maintaining their pawning service, in large part due to the demands of the people. People will always have to reach out to acquire financial help, the very same people have a few jewelries and heirlooms that they can pawn off for a reasonable amount, and those very same people are satisfied with the outcome, thus, we have a longstanding name that is the staple of every Filipino. It doesn’t matter if you were to ask a children or an adult if they recognize the name Cebuana Lhuillier, they will always be familiar with it.

A brief history of its humble beginnings and its current business goal

Cebuana Lhuillier was established in 1988 by the PJ Lhuillier Group of Companies (PJLGC). Not limited by their main business of pawning, they have since branched out into many financial services such as remittance, microinsurance, micro savings, and business to business micro loan solutions. There used to be a time in which all of these transactions were done in person, with the client or customer needing to be in line at their nearest branch to undergo the process, but Cebuana Lhuillier evolved their business and services, and as of this writing, incorporates their eCebuana App to cater to our fellow Filipinos who do not have time to stand in line. Most, if not some of their offered services can now be accomplished with just a few clicks on their smartphones. Now, in spite of all these changes, Cebuana Lhuillier’s mantra of serving the Filipino people hasn’t changed. It has and still is about serving the Filipino people, anytime, anywhere, and the fact that there are over 2,200 branches all around the Philippines says so much about their goal to reach out to every Filipino who are in need of their services.

Of course, the fact that Cebuana Lhuillier, being established and handled by the PJ Lhuillier Group of Companies (PJLGC) while achieving their current business goals wouldn’t be much of a surprise. PJLGC attributes their dominance in the industry towards their habitual innovation, to their robust network of local and international partners, and to their commitment to nurture their ever-growing list of growing clientele. This says so much about their culture, as they always aim to evolve their business and to achieve what other companies may have not achieved before. In due time, Cebuana Lhuillier’s parent company also ventured into other industries such as retail, hotel and restaurant management, IT, sports management, and real estate, so is it any wonder that Cebuana Lhuillier itself can relate to the needs of the average Filipino? They have a certain level of consciousness with regards to the demands of the people, and they have played their part in providing just that.

Playing to their strengths

Cebuana Lhuillier, in spite of the fact that they have branched out into many other services, haven’t really forgotten their main course of financial service. You see, pawning has always been etched with the name Cebuana Lhuillier. Try this out, ask anyone what they think about the name, and they will straight up tell you that it is a pawnshop. Of course, that’s just natural, as it is indeed the main identity of Cebuana Lhuillier, and that is one of the main reasons why they’ve been a success throughout the years. They haven’t forgotten where they came from, and neither have they forgotten their main goal of assisting the Filipino people with their financial needs. Any company or industry that stays true to its roots had so far shown a powerful resilience throughout the many challenges brought about by the ever-changing climate of the economy. Many have failed, many have run out of business, and many just gave up, but not Cebuana Lhuillier. They’ve been alive for many decades, and they will continue to flourish as the years go by.

What is the secret to their success?

Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pawning service, being at the forefront of their other offered services has definitely made its mark within the Philippine society. But that is made more obvious by how the Filipino people trust their business practices. You see, while others may have taken the route of charging their services too high or cheating their customers out of their money for their own gain, Cebuana Lhuillier took the higher ground and continued to serve the Filipino people with nothing but honesty and exemplary service in mind. You may ask, “How do they even do that?” Well, look no further than their current appraisal in pawning. Cebuana Lhuillier actually offers a 30% higher appraisal on gold items. Just imagine that. Not 10, not 15, not even 20 or 25, but a definite 30%. You would not be able to find a more honest and a more customer-friendly deal than that. Of course, as the customer, it is your responsibility to ensure that the item/s that you’re going to pawn off are in great condition, and in doing so, you may get a good appraisal on those very items. And as we’ve mentioned, much better if it’s made of gold due to the higher appraisal. No cracks, no dents, no strange markings other than the intended ornaments on your jewelries.

So with all of that being said, you can never go wrong with Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pawning Service. They lead the pawning industry by offering only the safest and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its more than 2,500 branches nationwide. You may visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now for more information.

Vehicle insurance – everyone needs them. Whenever you’re riding down the road, you are certain that anything can happen, and indeed, many unexpected things do occur on the on a daily basis. Even the most seasoned drivers, riders, and even commuters are faced with unforeseen circumstances, so much that many would prefer to prepare for the inevitable. The good news is, there is such a thing as a vehicle insurance, a form of protection for when the unexpected were to happen. Now, you may ask, what is vehicle insurance? Simply put, vehicle insurance is defined as:

“The insurance for cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other road vehicles. Its primary use is to provide financial protection against physical damage or bodily injury resulting from traffic collisions and against liability that could also arise from incidents in a vehicle.”

So the next time you’re on the road, you no longer need to fear about big expenses due to collisions, as you can pretty much be sure that an insurance will cover all the expenses for you. Now, in spite of the fact that the definition seems a bit generalized, there are actually multiple types of vehicle insurances. We wouldn’t like to lull you to sleep, so, we will only be discussing one major vehicle insurance that may very well catch your interest.

What is a CTPL insurance?

The abbreviation CTPL stands for Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL). Within the insurance industry, it is also known as Compulsory Motor Vehicle Liability insurance or CMVL. Before we proceed any further, take note that the CTPL coverage is mandated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) of the Philippines for all motor vehicle owners. This means that it is at least one of the preliminary requirements that you must acquire before even heading out to LTO to register your newly bought vehicle. With that in mind, let us proceed with its main purpose, which is, “to protect the owner of the vehicle from financial obligations to anyone who is injured or killed by the insured vehicle.” Keep in mind that all of this applies to owners of both cars and motorcycles, so whether you’re riding a delivery van or scooting through on two wheels, you are required and entitled to own such insurance.

Now, the definition and the purpose itself may sound simple, however, there are a few technicalities when it comes to the implementation of the CTPL insurance. To be clear about these technicalities, here are just a few of the major ones. Keep these in mind for when you are about to acquire this particular insurance in the foreseeable future to avoid any confusion.

• The CTPL only covers third parties, and that does not include the driver.

You may ask, “Who are these third parties?” How would I determine which is which? Well, third party members may refer to any unsuspecting person outside the vehicle and is not a member of your family, including household members. For example, if (by accident) you were to hit an innocent bystander or a pedestrian, your insurance will pay for the expenses of that injured person. However, if you accidentally hit your maid or your brother, your CTPL will not cover their medical expenses. It’s a bit tricky to understand at first, but always remind yourself that the insurance mostly caters to “strangers,” rather than your “relatives and loved ones.” Doing so would make it easier to comprehend.

• The CTPL also has benchmark for whom to provide compensation for, if they are within the vehicle.

Of course, CTPL doesn’t just cover bystanders getting hit and injured outside the vehicle, it also covers the expenses of the passengers within the vehicle itself, though this may get too technical, so we will segregate them through a simple chart:

Now, we understand that a CTPL may not seem too inclusive at first, but it is only because it is a different type of insurance, which people may misinterpret for other comprehensive personal insurances. A general consensus even clarifies this:

“A CTPL is NOT a comprehensive car insurance, and it isn’t a substitute for what that insurance offers as well. A comprehensive car insurance offers more coverage than a CTPL, in terms of loss and/or damage of vehicle, excess bodily injury, property damage, no-fault indemnity cover, and auto passenger personal accident.”

This means that a CTPL is more of a complimentary insurance to a comprehensive vehicle insurance rather than being a standalone. This may seem too much of a process (not to mention, financial expense) from a glimpse, but there is a good news to this.

• The CTPL insurance is affordable, more affordable than the expenses that you may acquire just by being involved in a road accident without having bought any coverage at all.

We might have mentioned this before in one of our older write-ups, but the one-year coverage of CTPL usually entails a PhP560.00 fee for private cars and PhP250.00 for motorcycles. If you opt for a three-year coverage, private cars can pay PhP1,610.00 and for motorcycles PhP720.00. As you can see, it isn’t really much of a hassle when it comes to the budget. Just imagine the thousands you’d have to spend if you were not able to purchase a reliable CTPL insurance.

Okay, so is there anywhere in the Philippines where I may acquire this CTPL insurance?

Yes, as a matter of fact, the nearest source may just be one tricycle ride away from you. Cebuana Lhuillier offers their very own CTPL insurance. Don’t let the name fool you, for many years, Cebuana Lhuillier has branched out towards other services such as microinsurance and microloans. And within those years, they have proven that they can deliver outstanding service even beyond their main offering, which is pawning.

If I were to avail a CTPL insurance from Cebuana Lhuillier, does it entail any benefit for me?

Yes, it actually does. The great thing about Cebuana Lhuillier is that they offer more than the usual ins and outs of their services, as they also offer various promos that would greatly benefit their patrons. For example, they recently introduced their CTPL E-raffle Promo.

What is Cebuana Lhuillier’s CTPL E-raffle Promo and what are its mechanics?

1. This e-raffle promo will run from July 1 to October 31, 2020.
2. This is open to all clients of Cebuana Lhuillier.
3. For every purchase of CTPL, clients will be entitled to one (1) e-raffle entry and will have a chance to win a brand new motorcycle.
4. There will be one (1) winner of Motorcycle per region for a total of eight (8) winners in the grand draw.
5. Deadline of entries is on October 31, 2020, 11:59 PM.
6. Qualified entries will be electronically drawn on November 4, 2020, 10:00 AM at PJ Lhuillier Inc. ICT Office 3/F, The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor., Bel Air, Makati City 1209.
7. Winners will be notified through notification letter/SMS.
8. Unclaimed prizes will be forfeited sixty (60) days upon receipt of notification.
9. Employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, agencies and services and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity are not qualified to join the e-raffle.

So, what are you waiting for? Have your rides insured or renew your CTPL now at Cebuana Lhuillier! Feel free to visit the branch nearest you. We ensure a fast, easy, and convenient transaction.

There should always be a balance between your overall budget and the money that you’ll utilize to help others. We Filipinos are known to be one of the most helpful and charitable people in the world. Whenever someone is in need, may it be a family, a friend, or a loved one, we are always the first to react to their heed for assistance. For the most part, helping out a family is seen as an obligation, as blood ties will always be stronger than any other bond in the world, however, it is also mainly due to the Filipino spirit of camaraderie and unity. Now, the same thing may apply towards friends, as we definitely treat our closest friends as part of the family. No matter how much of a stranger a friend can be towards your other family members, they can be as close to you as your very own brother or sister, so it is only understandable for you to treat them all in equal footing. With all of that being said, there will always be limits, with regards to the amount of assistance that you may provide towards all of them. While the word “assistance” may come in many form, usually by a piece of advice or as a shoulder to lean on, our current economy may entail that assistance to be made of materials things, specifically, money.

Things haven’t been easy for everyone as of late. It was already tough before the pandemic even began, so much more that now, the very same pandemic has taken away the source of income and livelihood of many of our kababayans. You may have a few relatives under that belt, those who were suddenly let go as the pandemic ravaged their businesses, leaving them with nothing to live by. And just to make ends meet, they try to capitalize on opportunities which would jumpstart their goal of making a living again, but in order to initiate that, they need a capital, and who better to ask that from than you? Of course, if you have more than enough, you can help them out by providing that financial assistance. If it wouldn’t be much of a bother (since, understandably, you might have been affected by the economic blow of the pandemic as well), then by all means help your relatives out. But ready as you may be to jump into action, before even taking a step towards remitting your money, make sure that you balance things out first. The thing about sending financial help is that, if you’d send too less of an amount, your budget may remain intact, but that very small amount would not be able to help out your relatives. The opposite thing happens when you send too much financial help, as your relatives may be given more than enough capital to start all over again, but you will be left with nothing to make your very own ends meet. There should at least be proper balance when helping out even the person closest to you.

You may ask, “Is there any way for me to determine how to balance out my budget and my remittance?” The good news and definite answer is “Yes, there is.” Since you’re going to be the one to send over that financial assistance, it is your responsibility to even things out between your budget and the amount to be sent. There are many ways to achieve this, but we’re just going to cover the more significant ones, as they are the most efficient and the more commonly known when it comes to balancing out financials.

• Plan out your own budget before sending over any amount for assistance.

One way to determine the perfect balance between your household budget and the money that you’re planning to remit would be to take a look at your very own budget plan. If you don’t have it already, formulate one. Plan out your budget for the upcoming months. Of course, never forget to include the essentials, such as the expenses for your groceries, your bills, your emergency funds, and even for the enrollment of your kids (online classes are now ongoing, and your kids may very much encounter the same situation). Now, after sorting out your budget, plan out in detail your expenditures, make sure that no amount would be wasted, make sure that everything will be accounted for, that no bill would be left unpaid. If you’re able to plot out the budget for the upcoming months at least, then you’re on your way to segregating the amount you’re willing to remit towards your loved ones. If it’s just enough, don’t worry, everyone’s in a hole right now financially and they’ll get by even with only the exact amount that they’d ask for.

• Put into consideration your needs versus your wants.

Especially now that everyone’s in a tight spot, people would need to be more conscious about their spending. We’ve mentioned before about plotting out your budget for the upcoming months, but this is only for the pre-determined parts of your daily living, such as the essentials. There are other things which may catch your attention, and we must tell you that not everything you may see deserves too much of your attention, well enough to be bought. Food, water, electricity, communication utilities, these are all very important, and to be able to avail them, you must not overspend on the unnecessary things. If you were to practice ample amounts of self-control, you’d be surprised at how big of an amount you can save in the long run. Of course, savings would mean being able to have the amount to send over to your loved ones, and that would be more worth than any purchase that you may have online.

• Discuss and possibly negotiate the amount in question.

Sometimes, it can’t be helped. Everyone’s in a struggle right now due to the present situation of our economy, so understandably, you may not even have enough for the amount that your relatives or friends are asking for. If that’s the case, be honest, feel free to discuss your current situation as well. If your friend or relative happens to be living in the province, let them know of the current situation in your place. Life is tough all around, and the urban areas of Manila are in equal footing with the provinces when it comes to the current economic situation. Make them realize that your own family may be experiencing the same situation that they have back at home. Negotiate the financial amount if you must. Your honesty can go a long way.

So, these are just some of the many ways to balance out your own budget and the money to be sent towards your friends or loved ones. Pick whichever would work best for you and plan your every move before making a decision. At this point, every centavo counts, use it well and manage it wisely. Choose Cebuana Lhuillier for their most reliable Money Remittance service. Be sure to visit the nearest branch now for more information.

Sa BPI to Cash, makakapag pera padala ka conveniently from your BPI Account. In just 1-hour, ready na ito for payout at any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2500 branches, nationwide!

VIA WEBSITE: Pumunta sa https://bit.ly/BPItoCebuanaLhuillier para sa mas pinabilis na pera padala, through BPI!

VIA BPI Mobile App: https://bit.ly/BPItoCLMobileApp

Cebuana Lhuillier has always been at the pinnacle of serving the Filipino people for over three decades. While many still see the company as a mere channel for pawning services, they actually offer more, in terms of financials. One of their main services is Microsavings, which aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines and doesn’t require a maintaining balance (albeit, a minimum of P500 Average Daily Balance for interest to incur). Even Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old are qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account, which makes it very accessible to anyone who are in need of a savings account of their own.

Not to be limited by the usual financial services, Cebuana Lhuillier often provides opportunities for Filipinos to get more out of their accounts, namely, their timely promos. Throughout the years, they’ve had a few memorable ones, which were very beneficial to the Filipino people, especially during times of crisis and dire need. The current pandemic is no different, hence, why they recently launched Cebuana Lhuillier’s Instant Savings Promo 2020.

What is Cebuana Lhuillier’s Instant Savings Promo 2020 and what are the Promo Mechanics?
Cebuana Lhuillier’s Instant Savings Promo 2020 is a raffle promo implemented within Cebuana Lhuillier’s Microsavings service. The promo mechanics are as follows:

1) The promo period is from June 15 to September 14, 2020.
2) New and existing Microsavings account holders are eligible to join the promo.
3) Participants would be able to obtain an e-raffle entry by doing the following transactions and maintaining at least a minimum of P1,000 Average Daily Balance (ADB) within 30/31 days:

4) Eight (8) lucky winners of P50,000 will be drawn each month.

5) Each draw will be held in the P.J. Lhuillier Inc. ICT Office 3/F, The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor. Bel-Air, Makati City 1209, under the supervision of a DTI representative.

6) Undrafted entries in the previous months will not be included in the next draw.
7) Winners will be announced through Cebuana Lhuillier’s Official Facebook Page.
8) Prizes are non-transferrable, and each participant is only eligible for one raffle win.
9) Winners will be notified via SMS/text message and registered e-mail address.
10) The prize money will be deposited in the winner’s Microsavings account. Any amount which exceeds the Microsavings maximum account limit of P50,000 will either be given in cash or will be deposited in a Cebuana Savings account, if ever the winner will prefer to upgrade his or her own account.
11) PJ Lhuillier Inc. will pay the 20% tax fee for the prizes which will exceed P10,000.
12) The cash prize may only be claimed within sixty (60) days upon receiving the SMS/e-mail confirmation.
13) All employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, agencies and services and their relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity are not eligible to participate in the e-raffle promo.

The promo is a perfect way for Filipinos to catch up to their planned budget. Understandably, the pandemic has caused a major change in everyone’s financial standings. Earning cash is hard enough, but trying to earn more of it during a period of crisis is tougher. Many had lost their jobs, many were sent home after only a few years of working abroad, and a majority of our fellow Filipinos still haven’t found their footing after only a few months of the quarantine period. In such case, Cebuana Lhuillier’s continuous goal to support every Filipino during the time of the pandemic is unwavering and will continue all throughout.

“I am not a Microsavings Account holder. How would I be eligible to join the promo?”
If you are not a Microsavings account holder yet, no worries, as it definitely easy to apply for one. You may visit any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches nationwide and fill-out the Client Customer Information File Sheet and bring the following:

• 1 Government issued ID
• Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
• Student ID (applicable only if student is currently enrolled)
• P50 minimum initial deposit
• P100 card fee (for clients w/o 24k card)

“Okay, but how do I deposit the required maintaining balance in my account?”
Cebuana Lhuillier formulated their transaction processes with the customer’s convenience in mind, which is why the process itself is easy as 1-2-3.

• Fill-out the form indicating the money you will deposit and give it to the branch personnel
• Insert your 24k card in the PIN pad
• Get the completed deposit slip

“What if I want to withdraw the cash prize after winning?”
Well, you surely wouldn’t want to withdraw the whole amount after winning. But if ever you’d need to withdraw for your grocery errands, the process is simple:

• Fill-out the form with the desired amount you wish to withdraw
• Insert your 24k card in the PIN pad and type your PIN number.
• Receive the money from the branch personnel

You can even check your remaining balance after each withdrawal. You have two options to choose from:

Option 1: You may visit any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches and use the PIN pad to check your balance.

Option 2: You may log in to your account on the eCebuana app and tap on ‘Micro Savings’

Preferably, you may want to go for option 2 if your main goal is to only check your account balance. It would save you a lot of time, and would also enable you to check your account within the comfort of your home. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to communicate with our authorized personnel through our online channels or you may visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch for more information.

The Filipinos’ endurance and resiliency are immeasurable. Say what you will about the economy, but Filipinos will always endure, no matter what. But these amazing feats of strength are not without its supporting traits, mainly, the Filipino camaraderie and love for family. Often, we find ourselves engulfed within a financial crisis, yet, we still have enough to help out our loved ones. This is evident through the endless streams of cash remittances during our country’s toughest days, and even more noticeable as COVID-19 made its presence felt during the early months of 2020. The thing about sending your loved ones financial help is that, not only are you helping them survive throughout the whole ordeal, but you are also making it known that you care for them, and you would never leave them hanging during times of need.

Now, no other establishment has made it easier and more convenient for every Pinoy to send out their remittances but Cebuana Lhuillier. Being formally established more than three decades ago, their mantra of helping out the Filipino people with their financial needs and transactions remains true up to this day. Introducing different services along the way, garnering solutions to smoothen out every transaction, and opening its doors to opportunities that may better the lives of its long-time customers, Cebuana Lhuillier has always been at the pinnacle of providing unrivaled service and honest financial transactions. With the money remittance aspect of their service, things may just get better along the way, with the introduction of the International Payout Cash Panalo.

What is the International Payout Cash Panalo?
Cebuana Lhuillier’s International Payout Cash Panalo is a raffle promo implemented within Cebuana Lhuillier’s Money Remittance/Pera Padala service. The promo mechanics are as follows:

1) This promo is open to all clients who will claim their international remittance sent thru the participating partners abroad in any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches. Clients will automatically earn an e-raffle entry based on the following qualifiers below:

2) The promo will run from March 1 up to December 31, 2020. Lucky winners will be drawn to win the following prizes:

• March – 100 winners of PhP 5,000 cash
• April – 100 winners of PhP 10,000 cash
• May – 30 winners of PhP 20,000 cash
• June to September – 10 winners of PhP 100,000 cash
• October to December – 1 winner of PhP 1,000,000 cash

3) All qualified entries during the promo duration will be drawn thru a computer-based random generated system of Cebuana Lhuillier. The raffle draw will be held on the following dates at the ICT Office 3/F The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor. Comet Sts., Bel-Air, Makati City, with the presence of a DTI representative.

4) All qualified clients can only win once every raffle draw date.
5) All clients must update their personal information (e.g., name, address, active mobile/telephone no. and birthday) in their transacting Cebuana Lhuillier branch as this will be the basis of the marketing team in sending the registered mail and SMS to the winners.
6) All winners will receive a registered mail bearing the procedure on how they will be able to claim their prize. They must present the letter to their winning Cebuana Lhuillier branch together with a valid ID and tax identification number during the redemption period.
7) Announcement of winners will be shared thru the in-branch mini poster and social media pages of Cebuana Lhuillier.
8) Cebuana Lhuillier shall not be liable if the winners did not receive the registered mail due to outdated personal information.
9) All winners will only have sixty (60) calendar days to redeem their prize upon receipt of the registered mail. All unclaimed prizes will be forfeited in favor of Cebuana Lhuillier with prior approval from DTI.
10) Cebuana Lhuillier will shoulder the 20% tax in all cash prizes exceeding PhP10,000 in amount.
11) All employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, Ad/ Creatives Agency, PR and Media agencies and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity are disqualified from joining this promo.

“Okay, that sounds like a good promo, but how is Cebuana Lhuillier’s Money Remittance/Pera Padala service in general?”
Simply put, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pera Padala service is an easy, quick, and safe way to send and receive money within and outside the Philippines. You may claim the money as soon as the sender completes the remittance process in the branch! You may visit 2,500 branches nationwide and its wide network of accredited international partners. With decades of experience, you can expect Cebuana Lhuillier to safely send your hard-earned money towards your loved ones. It isn’t just about the smooth transaction at hand, it’s also about the experience of convenience and safety. While other establishments aren’t secured enough to handle money remittance with no or hassle, Cebuana Lhuillier always guaranties that their customers would not run into any hassle, may it be by technical or human error.

With the convenience and safeguards put in place, there is nothing left to do but to participate in the International Payout Cash Panalo. Take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity. Feel free to visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier b

Pawning – Looking up its mere definition would lead you to the sentence which describes it as the act of “depositing (an object) with a pawnbroker as security for money lent.” This act is most common here in the Philippines, with many of our fellow Filipinos facing an insurmountable heap of expenses, debt, and bills. This is most evident with the current pandemic, with many people losing their jobs, their businesses, and their usual source of income. No matter your status in life, surely, you may have felt the financial blow of the pandemic as well. Luckily for us, pawnshops are very accessible and are always around the corner. But out of all the pawnshops in the country, there is one which stood the test of time, and is always ready to serve the Filipino people, come rain or shine.

Cebuana Lhuillier has been around for decades, complementing its many innovations and developments throughout the years. Not to be mistaken for a mere pawnshop, it has expanded its reach towards other financial transactions and services as well, such as Microinsurance, Microsavings, Microloans, etc. In spite of its many changes, however, it still hasn’t loss its footing when it came to its main offered service of pawning. The excellent service and efficient transaction just improved overtime, thus, making itself a mainstay in the hearts of Filipinos nationwide.

Now, with our country’s current situation, Cebuana Lhuillier stuck to their mantra of helping out the Filipino people, especially during these trying times. Which is why they’ve introduced a certain promo that may very well help out our lucky Kababayans who are in dire need. Introducing, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Sangla Papremyo 2020!

What is Cebuana Lhuillier’s Sangla Papremyo 2020?

Cebuana Lhuillier’s Sangla Papremyo 2020 is a raffle promo implemented within Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pawning service. The promo mechanics are as follows:

1. For first-time pawning clients (New Sangla):

• Promo duration is from May 18 to Dec 31, 2020.
• This promo is open to new and existing new prenda clients.
• There are two components for this promo:

1. Instant Gratification – open to new clients who will pawn for the first time.

-All new clients who will pawn for the first time. Each qualified new prenda client will get one (1) instant prize depending on his/her principal amount

1. Raffle – This promo is open to new and existing new prenda clients.

-Each client who will have any of the following will earn one (1) e-raffle entry depending on the transactions availed.

4) Drawing of winners will happen at P.J Lhuillier, Inc. ICT Office 3/F, The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor., Bel-Air, Makati City 1209. This will be done with the presence of DTI representative.

5) Non-winning entries in the monthly draw can still be drawn in the succeeding months. In the grand draw, all entries from May 18 to December 31, 2020 will be included.

6) A client may only win once for the duration of the promo. In case a name is drawn more than once in a draw date, he/she gets the prize of higher value.

7) Winners will be announced on branch and thru digital platforms.

8) All winners will be notified via SMS and thru registered mail.

9)Prizes will be deposited to the client’s Micro Savings Account. For winners without the Micro Savings Account, they must proceed to the nearest branch and present a valid ID and the registered mail and a branch personnel will assist them in account opening.

10) PJ. Lhuillier Inc. will pay the 20% tax for the prizes exceeding Php10,000.

11) Unclaimed prize within 60 days upon receipt of notification will be forfeited upon the approval of DTI in favor of Cebuana Lhuillier.

12) Employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, agencies and services and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity are not qualified to join the e-raffle.

II. For existing Cebuana Lhuillier clients (Renewal):

• Promo duration is from January 15 to December 31, 2020.
• This promo is open to all existing Cebuana Lhuillier pawning clients.
• To join, all existing Cebuana Lhuillier pawning clients must renew their pawned items within the promo duration.
• Number of entries will depend on the kind of renewal transactions availed.

5) Drawing of winners will happen at P.J Lhuillier, Inc. ICT Office 3/F, The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor., Bel-Air, Makati City 1209. This will be done with the presence of DTI representative.

6) Non-winning entries in the monthly draw can still be drawn in the succeeding months. In the grand draw, all entries from January 15 to December 31, 2020 will be included.

7) Winners will be announced on branch and thru digital platforms.

8) The winner/s will be notified via SMS/registered mail. Prizes will be deposited to the clients’ Micro Saving aaccounts.

9) PJ Lhuillier Inc. will pay the 20% tax for the prizes exceeding Php10,000.

10) Unclaimed prize within 60 days upon receipt of notification will be forfeited upon the approval of DTI in favour of Cebuana Lhuillier.

10)Employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, agencies and services and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity are not qualified to join the e-raffle.

So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of this once in a lifetime promo. Feel free to visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now!

Stay Safe! – A common statement that you’d usually receive from your family, friends, and loved ones during the quarantine period. If you were already cautious even before COVID-19 hit our nation, then obviously it may be easier for you to adjust to the “new normal,” but if you were as carefree and complacent as in the previous years, then perhaps there are more steps that you must take in order to prevent acquiring the virus at all cost. Now, you might have been reading news articles, magazine interviews, and social media notifications from health experts about the indications and precautionary measures that you must take when going about your daily life. While some of them are simple enough to follow, most of them may have been explained better, owing to the fact that not all health experts are fluent speakers when it comes to translating complicated keywords into layman’s term. But no need to worry, as we at Cebuana Lhuillier have always been concerned about the welfare and safety of our beloved customers and patrons, and we have compiled a few of the dos and don’ts when it comes to adjusting to the “new normal.”  Here are things to consider before, during, and after going about your daily errands during the pandemic.

young Asian woman wearing protection mask against Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) or Wuhan coronavirus at public train station,is a contagious virus that causes respiratory infection.Healthcare concept

Before heading out:

• Prepare the necessary protective gear and items.

By now, you may have already been oriented about the importance of wearing a good, protective mask when heading outdoors. Some would choose re-washable cloth masks, while others may prefer to avail N95 masks for their daily ordeals, but out of all these choices, a surgical mask would always be a better option. Experts would always tell you that each side of the surgical mask has a purpose, and they’re not wrong. Wearing your mask properly would protect you in the long run. Aside from that, planning out your route before heading out would save you ample time and money, especially as the government has implemented various reroutes and policies when it came to outdoor activities, so be informed at all times. Prepare a shopping list before going out for restocks, consult your family members about the things that they’d need for the upcoming weeks and months. No do overs, no repetitive travels, as the longer you stay outdoors, the bigger your chances are of catching the infection. And also, do not forget to bring a small bottle of alcohol, make it a habit to disinfect your hands every once in a while. Do the same with your money, spray a bit in your coin purse just to be sure.

• If you’re heading outdoors with a ride, make sure that it’s in perfect condition to travel, regardless of distance and weather.

May it be a car or a motorcycle, make sure that it’s fueled up and well-maintained. If not, you may find yourself stranded in the middle of the road, and it’s the last thing you’d want to happen, especially during a pandemic. Check if the engine’s running well, check if the tires have an ample amount of air, check the emission, etc.

While outdoors:

• If you happen to come across friends or familiar people while outdoors, avoid hugs or handshakes.

We know, it’s frustrating and you haven’t seen them for a few months, but not shaking their hands would at least protect you both, giving you more healthy opportunities in the future to meet up and finally shake hands once the virus dies down. A simple nod, short conversation (while social distancing, of course), and even a salute would at least let them know that you miss them and that you are looking forward to meeting them again after the quarantine period.

• Avoid touching any surfaces as much as possible.

All establishments (including malls and groceries) were mandated by the government to disinfect their areas regularly. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you should confidently and carelessly touch all of the railings and tables that you’d come across outside your home. As much as possible, avoid holding or touching anything else other than the items that you’re going to avail when going for supplies. Remember, COVID-19 isn’t an airborne virus, it is transmitted by touch. If an infected person were to touch or cough towards a particular surface, the virus would remain on that same surface for a certain amount of time, and being in contact with that would be very dangerous (even fatal) to any unsuspecting bystanders.

Before re-entering your home:

• Make sure that you’ve properly disinfected your hands before touching anything else indoors.

The thing about viruses is that they can’t be seen by the naked eye, and by the time that you or others have been fully infected, it may already be too late. COVID-19, in particular, has a certain incubation period, meaning that you wouldn’t feel the symptoms until after a week or two. When that happens, the virus may have already spread among your loved ones. To avoid that, make sure that you spray a lot of disinfectant on your hands. Wash them again with soap just to be sure. If that’s not enough, immediately put your outdoor clothes in the laundry basket and take a bath to fully clean off any unwanted germ or microbe which may have attached itself on you while you were outdoors.

• Spray and disinfect the grocery items before taking them indoors.

Of course, you can’t do this with fast food items, unless you want your chicken to taste like isopropyl alcohol. What you can do for fast food items, may it be delivered, picked up or bought for take-out, you can re-heat it in the microwave or oven as advised as a safety precaution to prevent getting the virus. Spray those canned goods and plastic-wrapped items such as chips, pasta shells, sugar, etc. Any item which is well-covered could be disinfected, any food item bought with openings should be wiped clean instead. Just make sure that you left no stones unturned. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

Now, understandably, you may want to handle all of your errands within the comfort of your home. Of course, who would want to get out if there’s a rampant virus on the loose? Many of us have been “working-from-home” since the quarantine period began, but not a lot of errands would allow you to accomplish that. There are still many paperwork tasks which may require you to get out of the house, wait in line, and wait for your name to be called by the cashier or establishment representative. One major example would be money remittance, a process etched in traditional means that the average Filipino can only dream of accomplishing it in other convenient ways. Fortunately, Cebuana Lhuillier came up with a solution that would cater to all of their long-time customers and patrons. Introducing the all-new Cebuana from Home! It is an online service which would enable customers to accomplish Cebuana Lhuillier’s financial transactions remotely. No longer would people even need to leave their homes for financial transactions such as domestic remittance, insurance applications/consultations, and payments. All of these can be accomplished in just a few clicks. So instead of risking your health and well-being outdoors, check out Cebuana from Home at https://remitfromhome.cebuanalhuillier.com/.

Unprepared – a word which would best describe everyone when COVID-19 first hit our shores. Yes, we’ve been hearing news about the virus since the beginning of 2020, but the tough realization came at a rapid pace around the middle of March. Many Filipinos did not expect the viral infection to spread that fast, not even by today’s strict travel and hygiene standards. Of course, almost everyone’s first reaction towards the virus was panic, fear that anyone of us may be infected anywhere, anytime. Some were even preparing themselves for the inevitable, stating that “it isn’t a matter of how, but when.”

This doesn’t mean that no one has a fighting chance against the virus, of course. No, as a matter of fact, as of this writing, 11,453 people had already recovered, with only 1,290 casualties in record. However, the positive cases are still up by 41,830, which begs the question, “How unprepared were we before the virus even hit our nation?” Were we really that unperceptive towards international news? Were we too complacent, not believing that such a rampant virus would hit Philippine waters? Alas, it would be too late to contemplate on that. After all, the best that we can do right now is to make the most out of what we have, and what we have may not be enough to support us for the unforeseeable end of the quarantine period.

So, the question is, what can we do to protect our finances during the pandemic? How may we survive our family with whatever’s left of our budget and remaining finances? The answer? By availing a good insurance service, of course.

What are the advantages of having an insurance during the quarantine period?
1) Helps lower your medical expenses.
Let’s get this out of the way first, the most efficient way to save during the pandemic would be to reduce your expenses, unfortunately, medical expenses in the Philippines would always be at an all-time high. At least having an insurance would help cut your medical cost, enabling you to set aside a few amounts even after the whole ordeal.

2) Insurance coverage isn’t limited to you and you alone.
Depending on your availed insurance package, some would include your family and loved ones within the same coverage, thus, cutting down on their medical expenses as well. Think of it as an extension of your love and concern for them. No longer would you have to worry about rushing anyone of them towards the nearest hospital if the need were to arise, you have your insurance to cover for them.

3) Insurance companies usually update their coverages.
Some, if not most insurance companies would usually update their coverage packages, hence, even if COVID-19 were a fairly new virus strain to begin with, any infection by the said virus would still be covered by your chosen package. Of course, you’d still have to survive the ordeal and hope for the best if worst comes to worst, but at least your insurance would cover the expenses for you, after which your only concern would have to be about your recovery.

Okay, now that we’ve learned about the advantages of having an insurance during the pandemic, you may ask, “Are there any good and affordable recommendations out there when it comes to insurance?” Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMAX.

What is ProtectMAX?
Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMAX is a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old with Death Benefit, Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance, Accidental Dismemberment and/or Disablement, Murder and Unprovoked Assault and Residential Fire Reconstruction cash assistance. For as low as P50, each certificate is valid for four (4) months from the date of issuance and can be availed up to a maximum of 5 certificates per insured.

Simply put, it is your very affordable alternative to those other well-known, yet costlier insurance packages.

Okay, such micro insurances usually allow me to have a beneficiary. Is my family qualified to be some of them?
No worries, they absolutely are. The qualified beneficiaries are your legal spouse, your kids who are of legal age (18 years old), your parents (which includes your mother and father), and your siblings (should be of legal age as well, married or single would still count).

As you can see, the list of beneficiaries isn’t really very limited, and it is understandable, as Cebuana Lhuillier is very much aware for the average Filipino’s need for a good insurance that would cover them in times of need, especially during the quarantine period.

What are the Premiums?
You just need to pay P50. That’s it, no tricks or gimmicks. For as low as P50, you may avail this amazing Microinsurance.

Of course, that’s not the only available premium. For just the price of P250, you may acquire a higher coverage:

Regardless of the premium that you’d avail, you’re sure to find value for your money and security for the future of your family. But even that would just be the tip of the iceberg, as the claiming process itself isn’t even difficult, unlike other establishments who are offering their insurance services. For Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMax, the process would entail the following:

The Claiming Process:
1) In the event of a claim, the claimant shall submit the complete claim at any Cebuana Lhuillier branch nationwide.
2) Cebuana Lhuillier Branch Personnel shall review the completeness of all claim documents and submit to Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions (CLIS) (depending on the type of claim) for claims evaluation and approval; the review shall be done in accordance with the guidelines of Pioneer Insurance and Surety Corporation (PISC).
3) CLIS will submit final advice, within 48 hours to the BP and claimant the status of the claim.

a. If a claim is approved, CLIS Head Office will pay the claimant in advance thru Pera Padala.
b. If the claim is Denied, CLIS Head Office shall send letter of denial to the claimant.

For the requirements, be sure to transact with authorized Cebuana Lhuillier personnel for more information.

The current pandemic brought many changes, not just in our country, but throughout the world as well. Our lifestyles, our work routines, our commute, and even the way we spend our money has dramatically changed overnight. Understandably, it may take a while before people can fully adjust to these changes. It is never an easy task, after all. But out of all the things that people need to change and improve on, the aspect which involves financials will always be the one to garner resistance among others. People have a certain relationship with money that makes it very difficult to both attain and maintain. On one hand, people always have the urge to earn more money while dreading the hard work that goes with it, on the other hand, they tend to forget all of that hardship once they already have the cash in their pockets, going for expensive purchases rather than the most affordable ones. This is an evident case of a person’s bad habit, lack of discipline, and shortsightedness.

Admittedly, the current pandemic became somewhat of a wakeup call. People began spending less, setting aside a few hundred for upcoming purchases and planning out the essentials that would be re-stocked for the foreseeable future. However, even if people were to save up, it still wouldn’t be enough to survive the never-ending quarantine period. Yes, you did the right thing by not emptying out your bank account, but that would amount to nothing if you’d still avail expensive and unnecessary items. “What are these unnecessary items?” you may ask. Look no further than our list of essential must-haves and must-avoid purchases during the quarantine period.

The Essential Must-Haves:
1) Disinfectants and Hygiene Products
When we say disinfectants, they’re the usual lineup of products that are manufactured to deal with a huge amount of germs and microbes. Your bottle of isopropyl alcohol, no matter how small it is, can definitely pack a punch when it comes to getting rid of the surrounding germs. The same thing can be said about other cleaning agents such as soap, hand wipes (the ones formulated in rubbing alcohol), bleach (for your home surfaces), and detergents (a bucket full of them may be used to wash away dirty surfaces).

2) Fruits and Vegetables
The riskiest thing about the rampant virus is that no cure has been found yet. Neither has there been any vaccine either, so everyone’s survival would all really depend on the strength of a person’s immune system. If you have a strong immune system, then you’d at least have a fighting chance when going up against this deadly virus. The same thing can’t be said about everyone, unfortunately, which is why fruits and vegetables are a must-have essential part of everyone’s meals. We’ve all been taught by our parents and teachers from a very young age to value nutritious food, to always include them in our daily meals, and to choose them over junk foods. This lesson definitely made its presence felt, especially now that we need our immune system to function like one of those ancient armors we see in our favorite historical shows. A knight is only strong as his valiant sword and his strong, shiny armor, and unfortunately for us, the only thing standing right between us and the virus, is that shiny armor (the immune system), with no sword (cure/vaccine) in hand. We used to take healthy food for granted, but due to the current situation, it’s about time to take things seriously and to include green, leafy vegetables and fresh fruits in our daily intake, that is, if we even want to have a fighting chance at the rate of the current pandemic.

3) PPEs and Protective Gears
This is a bit tricky, as not only is it difficult to find a complete PPE set nowadays (thanks to the shortage caused by the pandemic), it may also be a bit costly (due to the law of supply and demand, lesser supply means a higher cost). Now, you may find a few local stores selling face masks per piece (some would even sell them by tens), and they’re very much accessible. However, face shields, gloves, and protective robes, may require you to look a bit further than your nearest store if ever you were in need of a whole set. Understandably, manufacturers are prioritizing frontliners, so PPE sets in general aren’t going to be found in stores, but in hospital laboratories and wards. The best that you can do is to at least buy yourself a few pieces of masks and be cautious when travelling. Incomplete gear means that you should do your best when social distancing. If you do get an opportunity to avail a whole PPE set, however, go for it! Nothing is more valuable than being protected at all times.

The Nonessentials to Avoid:
1) Flashy and Expensive Clothing
At this point, buying expensive apparel is like throwing away your money. There used to be a time when you’d buy flashy, trendy clothes to show off your friends in the mall, but that may no longer be part of the “new normal,” due to the fact that a) you may not be able to see your friends for a long time, due to the travel restrictions set in place b) malls are usually closed these days, only opening their doors for limited hours, after which you may have already completed your grocery errand c) everyone is too busy and cautious to even notice the clothes that you are wearing, so wearing something trendy is useless. The thing is, people are too busy minding their own business while social distancing and buying their supplies, so they may not even take a second look at you, especially if you’re not an acquaintance or a familiar face.

2) Expensive Gadgets
You must prioritize functionality over fashion. Instead of buying expensive cellphones, go for cheaper alternatives which would still enable you to communicate with loved ones from faraway places. Remember, there is nothing wrong with availing communication devices, such as cellphones, tablets, or even small laptops (especially if you’re work-from-home), the problem lies within the price tag. There are always more affordable options when buying gadgets in the market, and as long as they function the way that they are supposed to, you have no need for the well-known brands which will only eat up a huge amount from your budget and savings.

3) Junk Foods and Sweets
While not expensive when it comes to their usual price tag, junk foods and sweets may not be the best choice when it comes to shopping for food supplies. They offer nothing of value when it comes to nutrients, they cause more cavities than your average fruits and vegetables, and they also do nothing when it comes to strengthening your immune system. Sure, they are the most accessible types of food and snacks, even during this time of shortages and factory shutdowns, but the fact that they are least prioritized at a time when hunger is just around the corner says a lot about their current standing when it comes to people’s nutritious needs.

Now, at this time of crisis and uncertainty, the proper use of your budget is a must. It may not be an easy task, but if you’re the breadwinner and provider of your family, your focus towards an efficient way of budgeting would help in the long run. Of course, it isn’t just about the efficient use of money, it’s all about setting aside a few amounts for your future. Luckily, your most trusted pawnshop is here to stay and is always open to serve you with your dire needs when it comes to savings. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings services. At its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, with the main difference of requiring at least a P500 Average Daily Balance for interest to incur. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier now!

Insurance, what would we do without them? Insurance is the soft cushion that catches us just when we’re about to fall towards the hard pavement of debt. There are various types of insurance, and supposedly, one insurance is enough to cover a few of your expenses. For the most part, people have a general idea of what an insurance is, however, not many are familiar about the ins and outs of an insurance plan. Especially with the current influx of COVID-19 cases, you may need one or two insurance plans to cover any of your unforeseen expenses. Uncertainty is always a part of life, and expenses are always around the corner. In such case, allow us to introduce you to the world of insurance, its different types, and the advantages that you may get from these different insurance plans.

First of all, what is an insurance?

An insurance is defined as a contract, characterized by a policy, in which an individual or a group of people receives financial protection or reimbursement against losses from an insurance company. The company pools clients’ risks to make payments more affordable for the insured. Insurance policies are used to hedge against the risk of financial losses, both big and small, that may result from damage to the insured or her property, or from liability for damage or injury caused to a third party.

Simply put, if you have insurance and something unfortunate and unexpected were to happen, your insurance would make sure that you wouldn’t need to spend a lot of money to cover the expenses resulting from that sudden occurrence. You may ask, “What are these sudden occurrences?” Well, they are some of the things that people fear the most, accidents, calamities, bankruptcy, property damage, you name it. All of the things that may cause huge expenses, these are the “unexpected occurrences” that you may come across at least once in your life, and insurance plans would be there to take a majority of the blow, much like how a bulletproof vest would take much of a damage for a law enforcer during a heated situation.

Okay, but what are the requirements to get an insurance?

Different insurance companies and establishments would usually have varying lists of requirements and benchmarks. It would be best if you were to discuss this with your preferred insurance company, so as not to confuse one pre-requisite from the other. Sometimes, these requirements are tied to their policies, so feel free to ask questions whenever you need to clarify the details.

What are the different types of insurances?

There are many insurance plans, each corresponding to a coverage that they are focused on. We’ve mentioned earlier that there are certain occasions in which a single insurance may be flexible enough to cover other incidences, but for the sake of clarity, we will discuss them in variations and their purposes. Aside from that, we will stick with a familiar establishment when it comes to affordable insurance types. For this, we will focus on Cebuana Lhuillier and their Micro Insurance Services. Their variations are also accessible and affordable, so you may be able to relate with a few of our sample scenarios and their offered Micro Insurances:

1. Individual Insurance Like Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMAX

Cebuana Lhuiller’s ProtectMAX is a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old with Death Benefit, Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance, Accidental Dismemberment and/or Disablement, Murder and Unprovoked Assault and Residential Fire Reconstruction cash assistance. For as low as P50, each certificate is valid for four (4) months from the date of issuance and can be availed up to a maximum of 5 certificates per insured.

The Qualified beneficiaries are:

• Legal Spouse
• Child of legal age (18 years old)
• Parents – Mother/Father
• Siblings – of legal age and single; married

This is fairly a new addition to Cebuana Lhuillier’s plethora of Micro Insurance services, but make no mistake, it provides a whole lot of protection, considering that it covers everything, from accidents to unprovoked assault. Even property damage is covered, with their Residential Fire Reconstruction cash assistance. Isn’t that amazing?

2. Business Insurance Like Cebuana Lhuillier’s MicroBiz Protect

Cebuana Lhuillier’s MicroBiz Protect is a comprehensive Property Insurance with Personal Accident coverage, Comprehensive General Liability and AXA Assistance made specifically for micro enterprises. It covers the property and its contents against perils fire and/or lightning and other allied perils such as earthquake, typhoon, flood and others. It also covers MSMEs against burglary and robbery, accidental death, permanent disablement and accidental medical reimbursement. Fees for the micro-insurance policy covering up to 12 months can go as low as PHP540. Aside from that, it is also underwritten by AXA Philippines.

So, if ever you’re the owner of a simple “Sari-Sari” store, never worry about the welfare of your business, as Cebuana Lhuillier’s MicroBiz Protect is here to provide for any unforeseen property damage or accidents.

3. Group Insurance for our Brave Barangay Officials Such as Cebuana Lhuillier’s TanodCARE

“What is Cebuana Lhuillier’s TanodCARE?” you may ask. Well, it is a Group Personal Accident Microinsurance specially designed for barangay tanod officials and its members/personnel. This Micro Insurance requires a minimum number of 30 enrollees aged 18 to 65 years old, enrollees above 65 years old will be accepted subject to 50% cover of the Sum Insured for all Benefits.

Insured members under TanodCARE will be covered with the following occurrences:

• Accidental Death, Disablement & Dismemberment (ADD&D)
• Permanent Total Disability (PTD)
• Unprovoked Murder & Assault (UMA)
• Accident Medical Reimbursement (AMR)
• Burial Benefit (accident/sickness)
• Accident Daily Hospital Income (DHI)

Of course, even our local guardians need a safeguard against sudden expenses, more so that they have a risky occupation, keeping the peace and tranquility of our local community in check.

4. Group Insurance for the Future Pioneers of Our Country Such as Cebuana Lhuillier’s StudentCARE

Cebuana Lhuillier’s StudentCARE is a Group Personal Accident Insurance that protects students from various perils 24/7 worldwide. Of course, under the current ECQ, students are allowed to be home-schooled, but after the whole ordeal ends, you may want your kids to be insured, especially if they happen to travel daily towards school. You may never know what lies around the corner. Keep them safe and insured.

Insured members under StudentCARE will be covered with the following:

• Accidental Death, Disablement & Dismemberment (ADD&D)
• Unprovoked Murder & Assault (UMA)
• Accident Medical Reimbursement (AMR)
• Accident Burial Benefit (ABB)
• Daily Hospital Income (DHI)
• Ambulance Fee and Fire Assistance

5. Group Insurance for Our Hardworking Citizens Such as Cebuana Lhuillier’s EmployeeCARE

Cebuana Lhuillier’s EmployeeCARE is a Group Personal Accident Insurance specially designed for employees. Obviously, people working under the various umbrella of corporate work also needs their own insurance plan, as even the most sophisticated office places aren’t safe from hazards.

Insured members under EmployeeCARE will be covered with the following:

• Accidental Death, Disablement & Dismemberment (ADD&D)
• Unprovoked Murder & Assault (UMA)
• Accidental Medical Cash Aid, Burial Benefit (Accident/Sickness)
• Motorcycling and Personal Liability

So, those are just a few examples of Micro Insurance plans you may avail from Cebuana Lhuillier. If you’d notice, they cater to the various members of our modern society, whether you’re working within the private sector or the local sector, or even if you aren’t working at all (as evident with the StudentCARE Micro Insurance), insurances are always a viable choice when it comes to avoiding major expenses. You may visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now for more information – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

The recent COVID-19 event caught everyone off guard. What was once a small blink on the international news turned into a sudden case of the pandemic, much so that everyone’s stuck right at home. Of course, we were all given our outdoor schedules to fetch a few supplies every once in a while (all are designated days within a week, depending on your Barangay’s announcement), however, the act of stocking up on rations is just one of the many necessary activities that the average Filipino does during such trying times. We Filipinos always had the “Bayanihan” principle, the motivation to help others whenever they’re in need.

This isn’t limited to our loved ones as well, as you may have heard of strangers giving a share of their supplies to the homeless during the evening news. Indeed, we are bound by our moral obligation to help others, no matter the cost. When there is a pandemic or economic collapse, we just tend to feel the need to reach out and lift others to safety, much like how a lifeguard lifts a drowning straggler. Now, the act of helping our fellows isn’t limited to providing them with clothes and supplies. No, as we can also provide them with financial assistance. If, however, you happen to have friends or loved ones in the province and you want to send over a financial assistance, you may understand the potential concerns in doing such a simple task. How on earth would you be able to send over the money?

Thanks to the modernization of money transfer processes, these concerns have been already dealt with, leaving you with nothing but convenience and assurance that any amount that you’d send over would be received in full. Not convinced yet? Here are just a few perfect examples on ways on how to immediately send money to your loved ones:

1. Via Your Local Money Transfer Channels

Understandably, our government made the sudden, yet, efficient decision of closing down establishments for the time being. This was done to control the spread of the virus, flatten the curve, as it may. The only establishments left often are groceries, pharmacies, food markets, hospitals, etc. All of these essential channels are needed to provide nourishment and care for the people during the pandemic. Now, one of the more notable establishments left open during these trying times was none other than the local money transfer branches. The thing is, the government understood that we Filipinos are heroes in our own right, always helping out those who are in need, even when we ourselves are affected by the current situation. This might be the reason why money transfer branches were considered as an essential establishment, due to the fact that it has been identified as a resource of assistance from one Filipino to another, and indeed, it has cemented its own reputation over the years. Why wouldn’t it be? Even the money transfer process is quick and easy. People from Manila may just line up (while observing social distancing, of course), fill out a short form, submit the cash assistance, take note of the control number, and send that control number to their loved ones via text message. It’s that simple. Of course, it doesn’t come without its own disadvantages as well. For one, people would still need to go outdoors in spite of the epidemic. The same goes for the ones who are going to receive the money. They need to reach their nearest local money transfer branch in order to present the control number and other important details. And even before that, they would still need to line up properly, again, while observing proper social distancing.

2. Via Online Money Transfer

While ATM machines were left functional during the pandemic, so as to provide withdrawable cash for everyone’s needs, many of our local bank branches were closed without further notice. As of the writing of this article, only a select few were opened to the public, and even then, these branches were far from the urban landscape of Manila. Luckily, modernization has its perks. Even before the pandemic, people were already using the bank’s official apps in order to transact and process their cash, may it be for payments or for money transfers. The current situation is no different, with many people using the same app in order to send money to their loved ones without ever needing to go out of their homes. With just a few clicks, the amounts would be received by people from miles away. However, it also comes with its own disadvantage. To start off, the one receiving the money should already have a bank account within the same bank as the sender. There is a leeway for some other banks, but that isn’t always the case, as some are very strict with their financial policies. Another possible concern is that the ones receiving the money would still need to go outdoors in order to withdraw the amount. This may not be much of a worry, however, especially if proper precautions are taken when lining up for the ATM machine.

3. Via Online Money Remittance

This is somewhat similar to the process above; however, the good news is that this has more flexibility within it. For example, while online banking transfers require the recipient to have a bank account within the same bank as the one sending the money, online money remittance would not force the recipient with such technicality. Online money remittance is done via an app as well, but instead of an online banking app, it is done with an online pawnshop and money remittance app. A perfect example would be the eCebuana App from Cebuana Lhuillier. It’s fairly easy to use as well, with a lot of options. First of all, the sender needs to have an active MicroSavings account to enroll in the eCebuana App. Once enrolled, the sender can either choose to send the amount towards a money remittance branch, towards a Micro Savings account, or towards the recipient’s own bank account. Again, this is more convenient and flexible than an online money transfer. The only downside may be that the recipient would need to go outdoors to withdraw the amount from an ATM or a money remittance branch, but the process is fast and reliable so they wouldn’t be outdoors for a long time, reducing any risk of being caught up in the pandemic.

If the sender has not yet availed a MicroSavings account and he/she is not able to download the eCebuana App on mobile due to OS restrictions of the app, the sender can now try Cebuana Lhuillier’s Remit From Home. Through this service, you will be able to transfer money locally.  All you have to do is visit https://remitfromhome.cebuanalhuillier.com to send your money transfer requirement. This service is available for customers residing in the Philippines; Monday to Saturday from 9AM to 4PM.

So, these are just some of the many ways to transfer money towards your loved ones. Pick whichever would work best for you and plan your every move before making a decision. At this point, every centavo counts use it well and manage it wisely.

With the current rise of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines, our usual routine suddenly encountered a long halt. Everyone is instructed to stay at home, stay healthy, and to stay vigilant amidst the stress and panic brought about by the pandemic. For the most part, people seem to be doing okay, save for most of our kababayans who are in no condition to handle the sudden offset of the E.C.Q. Yes, going through scheduled set of days for groceries and lining up for hours outside a pharmacy may seem like an unneeded occurrence, especially for us Filipinos who have no patience or tolerance for long lines, however, it cannot be helped, especially as we are all expected to comply with the rules and regulations of the enhanced quarantine period. Now, the extended quarantine period isn’t the only concern that most Filipinos have. The financial intake of employees seems to be taking a huge hit as well, due to the fact that work and productivity has been lessened due to the quarantine. Of course, work-from-home has been implemented for most corporate jobs (including online meetings and task dissemination), but even with that implementation, not all of the work projects can be accomplished, especially for those which would require logistics and physical appearance.

In such case, many of us are looking for ways to add a few amounts to our already dwindling savings. Some of us are even going as far as to borrow money from our neighbors, just to make ends meet. Borrowing money is absolutely an acceptable and understandable plan, but surely, there must be better ways to acquire a helpful amount without any risk of a high interest or an earful from impatient neighbors (you wouldn’t want to disturb the peaceful, neighborly relationship, after all). Well, worry no more, as we’ve enumerated a few secure ways for you to acquire a loan. Especially during this long quarantine period, no other resource is as critical as cash, since it is well-needed for purchasing food supplies and hygiene products. Choose one which would best work for you and plan out your steps accordingly, as this may either make or break your budget during the whole ECQ period:

1. Through Bank Loans

We know what you’re thinking, this is probably the most obvious choice. Of course, where else would you be able to borrow money from, other than a bank? But obvious as it may seem, in reality, not all people are really familiarized with the process of a bank loan and with the current situation, most banks are closed or on a skeletal work schedule so your loan application might get long delays. So to start off, we will begin with the basics.

What is a Bank Loan?

Simply put, it is the extension of money from a bank to another party with the agreement that the money will be repaid. When we say “another party,” it may either refer to an individual or to a group of people who are hoping to borrow a particular amount. Nearly all bank loans are made at interest, meaning borrowers pay a certain percentage of the principal amount to the lender as compensation for borrowing. Think of that percentage as a form of transaction fee. This is usually how banks earn money from managing loans, they charge a certain amount, taken from a chunk of the loan. Take note that most bank loans have a maturity date, somewhat of a deadline to which the borrower must have already repaid the loan. Another word for bank loan is bank advance.

How Do I Get a Bank Loan?

The process and requirements differ from bank to bank, however, there are a few common factors to consider when applying for one. A few of these generalized requirements are:

• Proof of Income for Salaried Employees – Also known as the BIR Form 2316 or W2, it is critical for it to be signed by your employer’s authorized representative.
• Proof of Identification – This may include your passport, your driver’s license, your voter’s ID, your company ID, etc.

It is important to note that depending on your earnings and proof of income, the amount you’ll be allowed to loan would vary. There is nothing to worry about, however, as surely, you may already have an idea of the amount that matches an average of your earnings. The bank would make sure that you’ll be able to pay back the amount in installments, interest included, so do not panic about being given a loan which may either be too low or too high. Remember, applying for a loan isn’t just about submitting a bunch of requirements, you’ll also be screened or interviewed by an authorized bank representative. Listen to the rules and technicalities, to avoid any confusion with the payment options.

2. Through a Government Loan

Mostly focusing on the business aspect of things, a government loan (also known as a government-backed loan) is a program by the government to provide the needs of individuals, businesses, and communities. These loans provide capital for those who may not qualify for a loan from a private lender. A similar thing about bank loans and government loans is that they do not just cater to individuals, but rather, to groups of people as well. This was formulated by the government to help improve the overall national economy and quality of life of its citizens, encourage entrepreneurship, and to provide protection against and relief from disasters (as with the current pandemic, caused by COVID-19).

How Do I Get a Government Loan?

The following may be required in order to apply for a government loan:

• A Filled Up Application Form
• Income Tax Returns for the last three (3) years (if applicable), with positive income in previous year
• Latest interim financial statements (if applicable)
• Simplified Bio-data of key officers (Major Owners and President/Manager)
• Proof of billing for business and residence
• Copy of last six (6) months Current Account statements
• Copies of two (2) valid government issued IDs with pictures

Again, this may vary, depending on policy changes within the government itself. Be sure to inquire with your local officials for more information.

3. Through Quick Cash Loans

Now, we will be cheating a bit here. Unlike the first two options, this isn’t really much of a loaning process, but more of a pawning process. If you really are running out of cash, be sure to check out your pre-loved jewelries and visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch near you. Cebuana Lhuillier provides the country’s leading pawning service to Filipinos in need of instant cash, offering a 40% higher appraisal rate VS other pawnshops hence, higher take home. Their 2,500 branches accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as a collateral. The company’s core business has evolved with the needs of its clients and thus, made itself well-known, even across the globe.

Commonly accepted items are:

• Gold
• Diamond
• Platinum jewelry and watches
• Cellphones
• Laptop computers

How is the Process?

• Visit any Cebuana Lhuillier Pawnshop branch and present the item to be pawned.
• Advise the branch personnel if you agree with the appraised value and net proceeds.
• Sign the pawn ticket on the space provided.
• Count the money received and secure the pawn ticket, which is required to be presented during renewal or redemption of the pawned item.

You may also check out Cebuana Lhuillier’s official website for more information: https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/pawning/.

The enhanced community quarantine implemented within our country took everyone by surprise. On one hand, it may be an efficient way to lessen the spread of the virus, on the other hand, it may also restrict everyone from going about their daily lives, disrupting work, study, and even play. Now, as boring as it may seem, being indoors does actually help with “flattening the curve,” slowing down the spread of COVID-19 and preventing people from being infected. However, as positive as the effects may be, the ECQ also limits the earnings of the Filipinos, due to the fact that every work task seems to be cut short. Yes, corporate jobs can be done at home, as with online conferences and paperwork, but not everyone has a corporate job. Many of our hardworking laborers are still left out in the dark, grasping for ways to make a living amidst this pandemic. Well, no need to worry, as in spite of the many limitations brought about by the enhanced community quarantine, there are still ways to make a living. May it be by the whole family or by an individual, there are alternatives to the usual labor work that the average Filipino does. Don’t believe us? Check out these following quick money examples:

1. Via an Online Garage Sale

At the advent of technology, people are given the freedom to sell stuff online, may it be brand new or second hand. Even before the ECQ, many Filipinos were already thriving though their online shops. Now, more than ever, they can still thrive, as all the shopping malls are closed down, save for a few branches where only the essential stores are open. With this in mind, you can definitely start your own venture without leaving the house. Of course, such modern venture may require the usage of more than one app, but at least you’ll be able to make a living in spite of the quarantine period. Here’s how you can do it. First, download two major apps, one for delivery and one for showcasing your products. Your products to sell may either be second hand (given that they still function well) or brand new (whatever brand new item you’re planning to sell, make sure that it’s in perfect working condition, and not pre-used). You may then proceed to take pictures of your product and wait for any orders via the buy and sell app. Take note that these “buy and sell” apps would usually streamline customer payment through various payment channels that you’d be most comfortable with, so do not worry about receiving your well-earned cash in the end. Once an order has been placed, you may use the other app, a “pick-up and delivery” app that literally sends a motorcycle rider to your address, where they may pick-up the item for sale, then, deliver it afterwards towards the buyer. Most of the time, the delivery charge would be covered by the buyer, so you (the seller) would just need to notify the buyer once the item is on the way.

On any normal day, the procedure would seem simple enough, however, we are still living under the implementation of an ECQ, so you may need to tell your customers that the item may arrive later than expected. This is understandable, as your delivery man would have to go through various checkpoints, so the time of delivery may be uncertain.

2. Via a Micro Loan

First of all, a Micro Loan is a loan of smaller amounts, typically lent towards small businesses. They are meant to help these small businesses grow. Now, for those who do not have a business yet, that’s okay, micro loans are also lent for startups, just as long as you’ll be able to present the requirements. Now, the said requirements may vary, so you may have to clarify that with the loaning company of your choosing. Did we mention that the amount would also depend on your planned business? Since you’re just opting for a small venture, you may just be given a small slice, well enough for you to start, while providing you with easy and flexible payment options. Don’t forget to pay back of course, unless you’d want the interest to pile up.

Now, due to the enhanced community quarantine, you may have to clarify the dos and don’ts of your planned business. Discuss it with your local government and make sure to study the details. The ECQ has quite a strict implementation of rules, and you wouldn’t want to break any of them.

3. Via Pawning

There is one term which would best describe our heroic health workers during such perilous times, and that would be the term known as “frontliners.” But did you know that the term frontliner doesn’t just apply to doctors and nurses? As a matter of fact, each and every one of the personnel who are still going out of their homes to provide essential service to our fellow Filipinos during the pandemic would fall under the category of frontliners as well. Our security guards, our grocery cashiers, our checkpoint officials, our pharmacy experts, each and every one of them are frontliners in their own right. Surprisingly, the same can be said about our pawnshop personnel. You see, establishments like Cebuana Lhuillier understands the need of the average Filipino to acquire quick cash, especially during the whole pandemic. People need money to restock on supplies, people need money to avail disinfectants and face masks, and people need money to purchase medicines. Quick cash is hard to come by, and much harder it is to formulate a business plan with no capital, as the COVID-19 ordeal came out of nowhere. Much so that even our government officials were caught off guard, but had since recovered by implementing the ECQ. With all of that in mind, Cebuana Lhuillier has opened its doors to those who are in need of a quick financial fix. We Filipinos always believed in the mantra of “Sangla” as a last resort, and Cebuana Lhuillier is aware of that. With 2,500 branches nationwide, Cebuana Lhuillier is one of the most accessible pawnshop chains in the Philippines. Alongside safety and world-class service, Cebuana Lhuillier also gives one of the highest appraisal rate in the industry for items such as jewelry and gadgets, offering up to 40% more than other selected pawnshops.

So, with all of that being said, pawning may be your best option after all. Be sure to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch for more information.

It’s been a rough few weeks for everyone, especially with the rampant increase of COVID-19 cases. Families around the world are quarantined within the confines of their homes, counting down the days until the whole commotion subsides. For the most part, this is a perfect opportunity for everyone to catch up with their loved ones. A perfect chance to talk about their experiences within work and school before the whole pandemic even began. But with the looming extension of the quarantine period, many are concerned with their budget for the whole month. Sure, the quarantine period may have contributed to the families having more quality time, but quality time with your loved ones would amount to nothing if everyone goes hungry. This is  why it is important for everyone to do their part when it comes to managing the family budget.

However, that would not be much of an easy task, as due to the pandemic, work and productivity has been lessened. Of course, our heroic frontliners are working around the clock to provide utmost care and service towards the people who are in need of it, but for those who are not frontliners, their compensation and means of income is currently under wraps, and the notion of getting back to work as soon as possible seems like an afterthought at the moment. In such case, the proper ways of budgeting should be put into action. If the parents aren’t earning anything for the whole month, the kids should at least help out in lessening the overall expenses. Here are a few valuable tips in achieving just that:

1. Time to unplug!

Being in quarantine can bore a lot of people. We all need our daily dose of social media and television in order to connect with the outside world. This is well-recommended, as remember, being alert about the whole pandemic means being informed about the various safety measures done to avoid getting infected. But, these communication channels, in spite of them being well-recommended, doesn’t mean that they should be subject to over use. Almost all of the things that we use on a daily basis require electricity, your phone, your computer, your appliances, you name it. The impending arrival of your electricity bill would do much to help appease your stress towards the whole pandemic, as nothing is more saddening than to see a ballooned energy bill. With this in mind, it would be wise to lessen your electricity consumption. Use your cellphone to get a glimpse of the outside world, watch the daily news to get updates about the whole situation, but after such use, turn them off, unplug and take time to clear your thoughts. What usually makes a pandemic worst is panic, do not let fear get a hold of you. It is healthy to be informed with the daily news, but watching too much of it isn’t conducive to your mental health as well, especially when the negativity starts to sink in too deeply. Be informed, but do not get paranoid. Budget your energy consumption, budget your news intake, organize your thoughts, and get a low energy bill at the end of the month.

2. Conserving Resources.

Due to the enhanced quarantine implemented by our government in order to slow down the spread of the virus, every community has to abide by a given schedule. This schedule would give everyone a chance to stock up on supplies, at least for a few weeks, or until such time that the schedule would rotate for another round of restocks. Now, given that there are at least three (3) to four (4) days of interval until the next restock period, it would only be wise for every family member to not waste any portion of the supply, may it be food, hygiene products, or disinfectants. It isn’t just about running out of supplies, it’s also about running out of cash. Grocery shelves would usually be refilled by the next restocking period, but the same cannot be said about everyone’s salary, especially with the pandemic decreasing everyone’s productivity at work. You would not be able to work at your fullest if you are at home. Sure, you can work from home, but other transactions which would require your physical presence (such as contract signings and other logistic tasks) would not be possible, thus, affecting your performance rating for the month. The best thing that you can do would be to explain to your kids that the whole situation right now is very critical. They should not panic, but, they should also be cautious about the way that they spend the family resources. For example, if they want to take a bite out of the watermelon that you had recently purchased, they may do so, but they should be responsible enough to store any leftovers in the refrigerator, to avoid any spoilage. A leftover that is well-preserved would do wonders, providing everyone enough food to last a whole week. The same can be said about toiletries and hygiene products. When brushing your teeth, you should make sure to not squeeze any excess toothpaste. Just use enough for one brushing.

3. Purchasing Items Which Would Last Long

The best way to manage your budget would be to buy things which may last for a long time. There are food products which has a long shelf life. Opt for those instead of easily-perishable goods. If you prefer to buy fruits and vegetables, make sure that they are well-refrigerated. For other food products, canned sardines and meat loaf would be your go-to choice. Fresh products such as raw meat, chicken, and fish may last you a few days, but be cautious of their appearance as well. Even when frozen, they may still spoil fast, depending on how long they were displayed in the frozen section of the grocery store. Perhaps you may go for the ones which already underwent the process of curing, fermenting, pickling, and drying, just to name a few. Availing these food options would mean that you wouldn’t have to keep on buying a whole bunch whenever going to the grocery, thus, saving you a lot of cash in the long run.

These are just some of the most valuable tips in budgeting your resources (especially your money) during the pandemic. It is a must-do especially if you are at the receiving end of a financial assistance. Those who are managing and handling money remittances are frontliners, after all. Be sure that their efforts (along with the efforts of those sending over the cash assistance) would not go to waste. Practice proper budgeting.

A Microsavings account – an affordable and accessible option than your average bank account. You may be wondering why this is the case, well, let us elaborate further on that. Microsavings accounts are basically accounts which consist of a small deposit account offered to lower-income families or individuals as an incentive to store funds for future use. Microsavings accounts are somehow similar to a normal savings account, however, they are tailor-fitted for smaller amounts of money. The minimum balance requirements are often waived or very low, allowing users to save small amounts of money and not be charged for the service. In such case, we can say that a majority of the Filipinos would be able to afford this, but let us clarify on that. As accessible and affordable as it may be, a majority of Filipinos aren’t really familiar with the concept of a Microsavings account yet. Many Filipinos are not informed about this fantastic alternative to a mainstream bank’s services, owing to the fact that well-known banks would spend countless amounts in marketing and ads just to flood out any news of this more affordable option. With that in mind, allow us to orient you about the features of a Microsavings account, the basic ins and outs, and the requirements in acquiring one.

How different is a Microsavings account from a normal bank account?

Purpose, that’s what differentiates a Microsavings account from the usual savings account. Let us put this into perspective:

A normal savings account has no limits. You can deposit any amount of cash, and at the same time, you can also withdraw any amount of money. You may do so as you please. If you were to deposit around 1 million Pesos, you can withdraw that 1 million Pesos the very next day. Indeed, it’s limitless, but that lack of limitation would make it conducive to abuse. Think about it, you can deposit and withdraw any amount, with no discipline in mind. A Microsavings account, on the other hand, has its own definite pro, in that it aims to end the stigma and proceed to discipline people about their spending habits. It would limit people who has the tendency to consume and spend more than they can save. It also aims to be more inclusive, being flexible and accessible by our fellows who are not fortunate enough to have the complete requirements needed in opening their own savings account in a bank.

A financial expert even gave his two cents when it came to the disadvantage of having a savings account: “The terms of traditional savings accounts may limit the ability of individuals with small funds to open such accounts, particularly if they do not have the minimum amount to get started. The stipulations of traditional savings might make the benefits of starting such an account limited or nonexistent for someone with a small amount to get started as well. For instance, a traditional savings account might incur regular fees if a minimum balance is not maintained. Furthermore, the account might generate negligible interest if the balance does not meet a certain threshold. The process of opening a traditional savings account could also prove to be intimidating to individuals who have little to no experience with banking institutions.”

So you can just imagine the struggle of people who are hoping to save up for their future, only to be stopped by the technicalities of opening a savings account in the first place, that technicality being the cost of opening the account itself.

Now that we know of their main difference, we may proceed with the advantages of choosing to open a Microsavings account over the typical savings account. For the purpose of clarity, we will be using Cebuana Lhuillier’s Microsavings service as an example. They are easily one of the best options when opening a Microsavings account. They also offer one of the most comprehensive Microsavings account to date.

1. No maintaining balance needed.

A Microsavings account would not require its account holder to maintain any form of balance within the account itself. While a normal bank would at least require you to leave P100 to P200 within your savings account, Cebuana Lhuillier understands the current situation of the Filipino people, wherein, every centavo counts. If Microsavings accounts were to require a maintaining balance, that would result to an extra P100 to P200 decrease from the average Filipino’s budget. That extra P100 to P200 would have been a great addition towards the food and grocery fund, instead of being used as untouchable filler within your savings account.

2. Microsavings accounts have more flexibility and leeway when it comes to their account holders.

A mainstream bank’s typical savings account has many restrictions. For one, the age limit is a bit problematic, not allowing kids to open their own account, until such time that they have reached a legal age. Microsavings accounts are way different than that. Cebuana Lhuillier’s Microsavings account, for example, qualifies children as young as 7 years old to open their own account (with the help of their parents, of course), which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account. Remember when we said that Microsavings accounts are more focused on disciplining its account holders when it comes to financial management? This is where it is most distinguishable, as training your kids to properly manage their finances at an early age has a positive outcome once they grow up into responsible adults.

3. The requirements are easier to accomplish and present.

Cebuana Lhuillier’s Microsavings service is very inclusive, as indicated by their list of requirements. For example, in order for you to apply, you just need to visit any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches nationwide and fill-out the Client Customer Information File Sheet while presenting the following:

1. Government issued ID
2. Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
3. Student ID (applicable only if student is currently enrolled)
4. P50 minimum initial deposit
5. P100 card fee (for clients w/o 24k card)

Take note of the initial deposit amount. Yes, you’ve read that right, only P50. The list of IDs you may present also makes the application process welcoming in its very own way, as the list of accepted Government/Valid IDs are:

• Passport
• Driver’s License
• Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
• National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
• Police Clearance
• Postal ID
• Voter’s ID
• Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) e-Card
• Social Security System (SSS) ID
• Senior Citizen’s ID
• Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID
• OFW ID
• Seaman’s Book
• Alien Certification of Registration (ACR)
• Barangay Certificate or ID (with picture and signature)
• Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
• Firearm License
• Immigrant Certificate of Registration
• Marriage License
• National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons
• New TIN ID
• OWWA ID
• Student ID
• Alien Certification of Registration (ACR) / Immigrant Certificate of Registration
• Government Office or Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCC) ID (e.g. AFP ID, HDMF (Pag-ibig Fund) ID, etc.
• Certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
• Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID (IBP)
• Company IDs issued by private entities or institutions registered with or supervised or regulated either by the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas), SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) or IC (Insurance Commission)

Even owning one or two of these would be enough to qualify you for a Microsavings account.

So, that is basically it. Microsavings accounts are indeed, the future of affordable banking. They have established themselves as the most accessible banking option ever, while still improving their services, offering a lot more in the long run. The features, the options, and the perks are just way too impressive to ignore. So, what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now and feel free to inquire about their amazing Microsavings services.

Service fees for donations made to GMA Kapuso Foundation’s Operation Bayanihan: Labanan Ang COVID-19 campaign to aid medical frontliners is now waived.

Cebuana Lhuillier decided to forego its remittance fees for donors who would like to contribute to GMA’s donation drive to purchase face masks, rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizers, and gloves which will be provided to frontliners at public hospitals as well as personnel stationed at checkpoints for the entire duration of the enhanced community quarantine.

“Cebuana Lhuillier’s commitment to serve Filipinos will always be in place, and right now our noble men and women who are bravely tackling this pandemic head-on, need our support. I hope we are able to send a clear message that now, more than ever, we must work together as a nation to combat COVID-19.” said Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier.

GMA’s Kapuso Foundation launched its Operation Bayanihan: Labanan ang COVID-19 campaign to aid frontliners who are in need of protective personal equipment given the swiftly dwindling supplies in hospital as COVID-19 cases are on a steady rise in the country and distribute grocery family packs for vulnerable families in Metro Manila whose means of income have been halted due to the enhanced community quarantine.

Cebuana Lhuillier implores everyone to work together to ease the plight of the many Filipino individuals, families, and communities affected by the threat of COVID-19 as well as the effect of the enhanced community quarantine. For all cash donations, you may visit Cebuana Lhuillier branches near you.

GUIDED by a mission of promoting greater financial inclusion among all Filipinos through innovative and affordable financial solutions, microfinancial services giant, Cebuana Lhuillier and growing chain of non-bank financial service stores, USSC (Universal Storefront Services Corporation), have recently formed a partnership.

Through this partnership, Cebuana Lhuillier and USSC will be able to extend their money transfer services to more Filipinos all over the country. Customers may now claim their remittances at USSC’s more than 1,500 outlets around the country and Cebuana Lhuillier’s more than 2,500 branches nationwide, as well.

With these two brands uniting their efforts, Filipinos will have more convenient payout options when it comes to their local remittance. “This partnership will definitely have a positive impact towards the lives of the Filipinos who rely on money remittances for their everyday needs. Through this partnership, we are simply extending our hands to assist and remind them that the country’s most recognized brands in the domestic money transfer business are now closer to them than ever,” said Jose Xavier Gonzales, USSC’s chief executive officer.

Cebuana Lhuillier Senior Executive Vice President, Philippe Andre Lhuillier, adds: “The combined dominance of Cebuana Lhuillier and USSC will enable for better delivery of services to our clientele. With both companies working together, Ka-Cebuanas regardless of their location in the Philippines will have access to additional domestic remittance outlets available nationwide through USSC’s network.”

The summer season is a perfect opportunity for us to get closer to our loved ones. Aside from the fact that the school year has ended for the kids, the weather is perfect for out of town trips and family gatherings. For the most part, some of us can afford such vacation plans, due to us being in very close proximity with our loved ones, sharing a home with our spouse, kids, and even our in-laws. However, not everyone has the same opportunity or privilege of achieving that. Many hardworking Pinoys in the urban cities of Luzon aren’t really originally from Manila, instead, many of them were born and raised in the province. Because of that, they might have not seen their loved ones for a long time, enduring homesickness while working hard and trying to make it big in Manila.

You might think that just because its summer, they’ll be able to leave their work and beeline straight home to meet their family again, but that cannot be further from the truth. Many Filipinos, especially under strict contract conditions cannot just up and leave without salary deductions and technical policies, thus, putting their occupation at risk, even after returning from vacation. In such case, the most sensible solution would be for their loved ones to pay them a visit. But such solution requires cash, especially as most of our provinces are a whole day’s length away, so much that in fact the fare expenses would reach up to the thousands or more. And we’re just putting into account the expenses that may involve one travelling family member, so if your spouse were to bring along your kids for a visit here in Manila, you may expect the fare expenses to multiply. They would not be able to shoulder the expenses, as remember, you are the breadwinner, you are the provider, and they’re just waiting out for your financial remittances in order to pay for the bills and tuition fees back in the province.

Cebuana Lhuillier’s Money Remittance Service as a bridge towards reuniting with your family again.

You’d no longer have to worry, as Cebuana Lhuillier’s Money Remittance Service would be your helping hand when it comes to sending your loved ones the well-needed amount to travel in Manila. The Pera Padala service is quick, easy, and safe way to send and receive money within and outside the Philippines. Your family may claim the money as soon as you’ve completed the remittance process in your local branch.

The process of sending money in the province is easy and can be done in just a few minutes:

• Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch and fill out the Pera Padala form.
• You may then submit the filled out form, together with a Valid ID and a 24k card (if you are a 24k cardholder) to the branch personnel.
• Give the total amount to be sent. Count it well before presenting it to the branch personnel.
• Secure the Pera Padala form (and count the change received, if there is any).
• Take note of the 10-digit control number, and then, send it to the receiver/beneficiary of money transfer, in this case, the receiver would be your loved ones.

NOTE: The receiver/beneficiary should provide the control number and present a Valid ID when claiming the remittance.

For your loved ones back in the province, the process of claiming the remitted amount is also simple.

• They may visit any nearby Cebuana Lhuillier Pawnshop branch and fill out the Pera Padala form. All of the details should be written down correctly, so it would be consistent with the details provided by the sender as well.
• After presenting the accomplished form they need to present a Valid ID and a 24k card (if they are a 24k card holder). All requirements should only be presented to the authorized personnel.
• As with all transactions that involves money, the receivers should count the amount received before leaving the branch.

If your loved ones in the province would not be able to reach their Cebuana Lhuillier branches due to unforeseen circumstances, they may instead coordinate with the authorized Cebuana Lhuillier Pera Padala Agents (for domestic remittances). The authorized agents are:

• ADB Lending Company, Inc. (Pasamonte)
• Expresspay, Inc.
• Global Pinoy Remittance and Services (GPRS)
• Orient Asia Lending, Inc. (Prime Remit)
• Jewelhouse Pawnshop and Jewelry
• Ayala Alabang Village Association-Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative (AAVA-EMPC)
• FILHAI Multi-Purpose Cooperative (FILHAI MPC)
• Republic Pawnshops Corporation (H Lhuillier)
• Quickloan Pawnshop
• Cardbank, Inc.
• Tiaong Rural Bank, Inc.
• China Bank Savings, Inc
• Cantilan Bank, Inc
• Enterprise Bank, Inc
• ABS-CBN E-Money Plus, Inc (myREMIT)
• Opportunity Kauswagan Remit, Inc. (OK Remit)
• Dalton Pawnshop and Jewelry, Inc.
• Inter Asia Development Bank
• Gata Daku Multi-Purpose Cooperative (GDMPC)
• Sun Gate Pawnshop
• Card SME Bank
• Viaexpress Travel & Tours, Inc.
• Philippine Postal Savings Bank
• Bayad Center
• Tanglaw Pawnshop
• Golden Rural Bank
• Pazalonia Pawnshop
• Country Builders
• Rural Bank of Kiamba (Sarangani) Inc.
• Common Wealth Rural Bank
• Via.com

They may visit any of these authorized agents once you’ve given them the control number. You may simply call, text, or chat the important details, but remember to remind your loved ones to bring a Valid ID, and also, to never share the control number with anyone else other than the branch personnel inside the Cebuana Lhuillier branch or the authorized agents.

Now, all of these are made possible only by a well-trusted remittance center, and nothing indicates a more trusted name than Cebuana Lhuiller. With Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pera Padala Service, you are ensured an easy, quick, and safe way to send and receive money. With more than 2500 branches nationwide and accredited international and domestic partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. All transactions are real time, which enables clients to claim the money as soon as the sender completes the sending process in the branch. So feel free to visit any nearby Cebuana Lhuillier branch for your money remittance needs – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

While the summer season may be a great opportunity for you to have a fun and relaxing quality time with your kids, it also presents a certain disadvantage at best, and that is, conditioning your kids to prepare for the next school year or semester. Now, this isn’t apparent at the first few weeks of their summer vacation, as indeed, they deserve a well-needed rest, away from stress brought about by assignments, school projects, and foundation day performances. However, during the last few days of summer vacation, you might come to realize that there should at least be enough time set aside in order to prepare them for the upcoming academic year. Of course, suggesting this to your kids out of nowhere would earn you their ire or resistance, so knowing when and where to reiterate the importance of preparation is the key.

For the most part, at least one week away from the new school year would be a perfect chance for you to set them up for the challenges ahead. Setting their expectation and familiarizing them with the advantage of preparation would not only make them flexible to change, but also, make them realize that every new school year or semester presents a challenge that they may have not encountered before. If you were to deliver this message effectively, not only would they be able to face the new school year with courage and an invigorated interest in learning something new, they might even thank you in the long run.

Now, if like most parents, you have no idea on how to prepare them firsthand, then look no further than our valuable tips:

1. Review their older lessons.

The thing about the new school year or semester is that it may contain a lesson plan that involves a much updated and advanced form of knowledge or principles which were already taught before. This is where reviewing your kid’s older lessons would come in handy. If they were to return to the basics, they would at least be able to piece the puzzle when it comes to a more advanced version of that particular lesson. Take Mathematics, for example. The simplest lessons would involve addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication. Perhaps at your kid’s recent school year, they were taught separately, focusing on one equation first before proceeding to the other. Now, imagine if the next school year would tackle an equation that involves solving a Math problem that has all of the recent equations combined. If your kids were to go to school unprepared, they may experience outright confusion, an offset that is further described by a modern term, “information overload.” Now, imagine if your kids were to review the recent equations from the past year, and then be presented with the newer, much complicated equation, they may be able to comprehend it at first glance, and even have a “Eureka!” moment – “Oh, so I just have to follow the MDAS procedure in order to solve this advanced Math problem.” Take it from us, reviewing helps a lot.

2. Mentally preparing them for the new school year/semester.

You might think that this is similar to the very first pointer, since reviewing older lessons may indeed stimulate your kid’s memory and analytic skills. However, when we say mental preparation, it also has something to do with their studying habits. The way we handle habits with our kids would determine if they’ll be able to successfully set them up to overcome newer lessons in class. Think about it, mental preparedness provides that well-needed edge and focus that your kids may need to concentrate on their studies. If they are motivated to learn in a very timely manner, you can expect that they’ll never struggle when it comes to studying routines and lessons. Think of it as motivating them to think that they can achieve anything, and that they can comprehend anything that the teacher says, as long as they listen, and listen hard. This motivation would not only help with their grades, but with their overall future as well. Some of history’s prominent figures such as Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Albert Einstein, etc. showcased confidence and resiliency, even when under pressure. The confidence to present what they know and the resiliency to show that what they’ve known and learned throughout many years would stand with no argument may prove beneficial for your kids in the long run.

3. Socially preparing them for any possible new friends in the upcoming school year.

Kids often shy away from new acquaintances, especially if they’re quiet and lonesome. This is normal for most kids, but such qualities should not be left unchanged. Many kids grow up to be introverts due to the fact that they struggle to interact with others. This is the result of parents not orienting their kids about the “outside world.” Teach your kids to be sociable, friendly, and kind. Let them know that it is okay to be shy, but not to the extent that they’d shy away from everyone they’d meet. Tell them that no man is an island, and that everyone needs a friend. Of course, you should also teach them to be wary of who they’d hangout with, so as to avoid any bad influences along the way. Teach them to be vigilant about the people in their surroundings, to be cautious of the company that they’re letting themselves into, and the kind of personalities they might want to have around. Remember, it is easier to teach your kids about the dos and don’ts of hanging out and making friends during their early years. Do this effectively and you may never have to experience any hassle once they reach their teenage years.

4. Preparing all of the right tools for the upcoming school year.

This is just one of the most typical ways of preparing for a new school year. Buying a new bag, notebooks, crayons, pencils, erasers, etc. Understandably, every new school year brings forth expenses in the form of school supplies. Of course, as a parent, it is only right for us to provide our kids with the best tools to help with their education. Buy everything in high quality and do not cheapen out on any writing materials that they may need, unless you’d want your kids to come home with a broken pencil, snapping in half just when the notes on the blackboard starts pouring in. Let them enjoy the advantage of high-grade supplies and watch as they do academic wonders with these materials.

Now, for OFWs who value the education of their kids back at home, they’d go through any obstacle just to send every well-needed amount for their education. OFW parents aren’t just focused on sending their spouse the monthly budget after every payday, but they are also motivated on providing for their kids, may it be for the tuition fees or the purchase of school supplies. In such case, a very reliable money remittance service is needed, to ensure that the tuition fees will be paid in full, every time. No need to worry, as that is made possible by a well-trusted remittance center, and nothing indicates a more trusted name than Cebuana Lhuiller. With Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pera Padala Service, you are ensured an easy, quick, and safe way to send and receive money. With more than 2,500branches nationwide and accredited international partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. All transactions are real time, which enables clients to claim the money as soon as the sender completes the sending process in the branch. So for our beloved OFW patrons, feel free to visit any of our international partners – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

For a complete list of our international partners, you may visit our website at https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/pera-padala/.

The summer season is what many people may see as a perfect opportunity to seat back, relax, and enjoy the warm, sleepy weather at the comfort of their homes. For others, it is also a perfect opportunity to getaway towards a tropical island, among the cool breeze and the sandy beaches. For the most part, that is true, as most would love to take a few days or weeks off from their current jobs. However, this is only achievable if one has enough budget or finances to actually be able to book a flight or avail a vacation package. The thing about vacations is that, filing for one would already provide two main assumptions; that you have already planned everything out ahead of time and that you already have the appropriate amounts to set that plan in motion. If you’ve already submitted your “leave forms” without any solid plan ahead of you then that may just very well be a wasted opportunity. In such case, not only do you have a lack of plan for the summer, but you also have a lack of budget to go with it.

With that in mind, you may be wondering how you’d best get by this summer while trying to fit your budget, even before the warm season ends. Well, look no further than some of our valuable tips. While some of these may prove more efficient than the others, you have the option to choose which tip would best work for you. Remember, you only have a tight budget to work with, so make the most out of it. You might even make a few extras along the way.

1. Control and be responsible with your expenses.

This is one of the most basic tip that anyone with a tight budget should be focusing on. People need the usual necessities in order to survive, food, water, medicine (if ever they feel sick), cellphone load, etc. However, these necessities (if left unchecked) may still be subject to abuse. Food, for example, may be overbought, resulting to many of your supplies going to waste. It isn’t to say that you shouldn’t have an extra loaf of bread on your shelf, because surely you might need a midnight snack. However, buying too many raw products would leave you with too much spoils thus, wasting a lot from your budget. If you happen to live on your own, purchase groceries which would last you for at least one to two weeks, but estimating that it would never be less or more than what you already need. Preserve water as well. Leave no tap running, unless you’d want to have staggering water bills at the end of the month. You may also want to watch your medicine or first aid kit purchases, as medicines have expiration dates. It’s great to have a handful of pain killers and fever capsules, but buying three bottles of these capsules would be too much. Manage your limited finances in a way that your purchases are just in the right amounts and that you’d never waste any of your available resources.

2. Plan out your own summer business.

The thing about having limited finances is that it would at least inspire you to think of some way to double it. The summer season is a perfect opportunity for you to be able to come up with your own small time business. Think of all the possibilities! For the average Filipino, a “Halo-Halo” store would be the most obvious answer. Either that or you’d prefer to sell popsicles or blocks of ice wrapped in plastic. The thing is, you are presented with the opportunity to make a living out of the small budget and summer heat that lies before you. Some locales would usually require a business permit in order for you to start your own small time venture, but even that is as simple as filling up forms, paying the appropriate fee, and presenting other documents which may show that your location is safe for the business.

3. Stay at home.

Limited budget would always result to limited activities. If you do not have the cash to go on a luxury cruise, then better just stay at home. You wouldn’t have any other choice, either way, as travel would cost money, and we aren’t even touching on the accommodation fees per scheduled vacation. Now, it may seem like a drag at first but sometimes fun comes from the most unexpected places. Staying at home also has its perks, for one, you can sit the whole day, relax, only to stand every meal time, turn on the TV after washing the dishes, then proceed to watch reruns of your favorite shows. If you aren’t fond of TV shows, then perhaps you can make the most out of your internet connection, watch countless livestreams of foreign shows or movies. The thing is, you are your only worst enemy, not boredom, and you are the only thing limiting you from having some fun, so do not let limitation of funds get you down.

4. Sell off some pre-loved items.

This is like hitting two birds with one stone. Have the energy to clean out any unnecessary or pre-loved items from your home and sell them off in a garage sale. You’d not only be decluttering your own space, but you would also be able to make a few amounts out of the sale. This is somewhat similar to the second pointer, with the slight difference of not having to get a permit for your garage sale, and having your pre-loved items to sell off instead of popsicles. Now, if you don’t feel like having a garage sale but would still prefer to offer your items in exchange for cash, then you might want to visit a pawnshop. Jewelries are your best friends when it comes to situations such as this, and the higher the appraisal of your pre-loved jewelry, the higher the amount that you’d get in return. Cash in exchange for your old accessories would always be a better deal than doing nothing at all for the summer.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most secure, reliable, and honest service and highest appraisal rates possible. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With their Pawning Service you can never go short in any amount (especially with a tight budget), as they accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its more than 2,500 branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Mobile applications are the future of financial transactions. Instead of spending your time in line, waiting for your name or number to be called, mobile apps would enable you to do it all in just one click. You aren’t even limited to just one transaction, as you’ll be able to transfer funds, validate received amounts, and pay your bills via your app. Cebuana Lhuillier, a pawnshop that knows the importance of time, proclaim its openness to innovation with its eCebuana App.

What is Cebuana Lhuillier’s eCebuana App?

Cebuana Lhuillier’s eCebuana App is one of a kind, in the sense that it further extends the functionality of one of their main services, namely, Micro Savings. All of the transactions that you can do in your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch, with regards to your Micro Savings account can now be done using this new app. Cebuana Lhuillier is aware of the average Pinoy’s need to accomplish tasks in a timely and direct manner, hence, why they came up with this amazing solution to connect everyone to one of their vital services in order to help cut time in processing their transactions and to enable them to avoid the hassles of long lines as well. No longer would you need to spend fare money for commute, and neither would you ever need to waste time in lining up for your Micro Savings transactions.

What are the functionalities of the eCebuana App?

Basically, every transaction which involves their Micro Savings services, but are not limited to other minor functionalities such as:

1. Send Money
2. Micro Savings
3. E-Loads
4. Electronic Bill Payments

Minor functionalities as they may, they are also vital transactions which people undergo on a regular basis. While e-loads and bill payments are a different story altogether. Everyone uses their cellphones, which is why loads are consumed and bought regularly, the same thing goes for electronic bill payments, with people paying their monthly charges via app in order to avoid long lines within the local “Bayad Centers.” Some may even argue that the minor functionalities of the app are more utilized than its main functionalities, but that is still up for debate.

Now for the main functionalities, those of which are integrated into their Micro Savings system, the following may be accomplished:

1. Checking of their Micro Savings Account Balance.

For people who already have a Micro Savings account with Cebuana Lhuillier, they may check their balance via the app. Oftentimes, people line up in front of ATM machines just to check the amount in their account, the same thing happens within the Cebuana Lhuillier branches, with people lining up just to inquire their Micro Savings balance. Cebuana Lhuillier, being the catalyst of convenience for their customers, came up with the eCebuana app in order to prevent this hassle in the long run.

2. Transferring of Amounts between Micro Savings Accounts.

Understandably, we find ourselves in the brink of financial need sometimes. If it isn’t us, it may either be a family, a friend, or even a workmate. In such case, Cebuana Lhuillier thought of an innovation which would ease up on the process of helping each other out with a simple click. Transferring amounts between two Micro Savings account is now made easier with the eCebuana app. Especially during trying times, where money transfer should be immediate or real-time, the eCebuana app enables you to have complete control of your Micro Savings account, having the functionality to send or receive an amount from another Micro Savings account within the system.

3. Transferring of Amounts between a Micro Savings Account and a Bank.

This is identical to the previous functionality, except that instead of sending money to another Micro Savings account, you’d be sending money to a bank instead. The receiver would still have to line up in their local bank in order to receive the amount (either that, or they’d have to access their bank account within their own app, if their bank has one). The main catch from this is that you’d still be able to do it all from the comfort of your home, using nothing but the eCebuana app.

4. Transferring of Amounts between a Micro Savings Account and a Cebuana Lhuillier Branch.

Now, if the one receiving the amount has neither a bank account nor an eCebuana app installed in their phone, you may still transfer money towards a Cebuana Lhuillier branch. They will have to receive it the way it was usually done, by lining up in their nearest branch and filling out a form for their transaction. This may be time-consuming, depending on how long the line is, but that would be on the receiver’s end. If you were the one to send the amount, again, you’d be able to accomplish all of that in one click. No need to leave the comfort of your home.

Key Summary:

To simplify, the eCebuana App has two (2) minor functionalities and four (4) major functionalities. The minor ones involve e-loads and bill payments, while the major functionalities include:

• Checking of Micro Savings account balance.
• Money transfers between two Micro Savings account.
• Money transfers between a Micro Savings account and another bank.
• Money transfers between a Micro Savings account and a Cebuana Lhuillier branch.

Of course, you’d have to apply for a 24k card first in order to accomplish such transactions though the app, but even that is a simple process that would not take much of your time. You may prefer to the official Cebuana Lhuillier website for more information about their 24k card .

With all of that being said, you can probably say that such an app is a lifesaver. Indeed, Cebuana Lhuillier does most of the heavy lifting, proving that unbeatable service is best seen with an innovation. Here in Cebuana Lhuillier, service is our top virtue, may it be online or in-branch. So, what are you waiting for? Download the eCebuana App now! Available at the Google Playstore.

A clean home is a serene home. When you are surrounded by mess, it is much harder to feel calm, noticing all of the bundled clothes, unorganized magazines, and dusty shelves. For the most part, it isn’t conducive to do or accomplish anything at all, which is why we were brought up by our parents to value the importance of cleanliness and proper hygiene. Without these two important things, we may never get by in life, struggling to concentrate on our goals and failing to do all of the necessary things as we are distracted by all of the mess that overwhelms us.

This is even more evident during the summer, as the heat index rises due to the lack of circulation within your home. The air passages from outside are either blocked out by unorganized mess or by clear inches of dust, all of which may contribute to irritability and anxiety. With this in mind, it is safe to say that nothing would ever signify a much better home than by decluttering every mess out of existence. Decluttering may just solve that longstanding problem of disorder and mess within your household, not counting the allergies and psychological problems brought about by a gloomy place. Don’t believe us? Here are a few examples of the advantages when it comes to decluttering your home:

1. Decluttering provides a wider space within your home.

Admittedly, clutter tightens your moving space. If your path is often blocked or constricted by disorganized furniture, unhanged clothes, and sprawled out toys then you might as well need to take hold of the broom and start sweeping. This is critical, especially during emergency situations, in which you’d have to move fast in order to either escape out of the house or to avert the whole incident. The perfect example of this would be during a fire, where a messy room may prove to be hazardous, with everything catching on fire and your pathway being blocked off by all of the burning clutter. Things may go from messy to risky, hence, why you should clear out any unnecessary trash, items, and dirt from your home. This is more critical when you’re not the only person at home, as your kids and loved ones may be at risk during such times. Do what you must and clear everything out to create a movable, breathing space indoors.

2. Decluttering helps you relax and relieves stress.

There is a famous decluttering expert that once emphasized the healing effects of cleaning out mess. According to that expert, decluttering “sparks joy,” and indeed, that is the truth. Don’t you find it hard to concentrate when you are being bothered by the awful sight of messy tables and shelves? Aren’t you irritated by the dust and odor coming from your bundled clothes on the floor? All of these may have harmful effects on your physical and psychological makeup, and it may prove unhealthy in the long run. Do something about the mess as early as now, do not wait for others to clean up the mess, especially if you’re the one with the ample time to do just that. With the summer season now on the horizon, your other family members may have ample time to help out in the cleaning. You may even teach them the proper ways of decluttering, based from your own experience. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone, basically, teaching them the importance of cleaning and disciplining them about hygiene and cleanliness. No longer would you have to worry about anyone leaving their mess again for that matter.

3. Decluttering helps you find long-lost items.

This is definitely true. Have you ever found yourself looking for that souvenir you received a few years ago from a workmate? How about trying to find your keys from the pile of unwashed pants in the bedroom? Or how about trying to find your pet cat from beneath the bundles of torn magazines on your living room floor? These valuable things may get buried beneath the bundle of mess if you aren’t cleaning up on a regular basis. The thing is, the more that the mess piles up, the harder would it be for you to find small, important items. Items such as keys, mini-phonebooks, calling cards, and even Swiss army knives may get lost deep within the pile that you wouldn’t even know where to begin looking for them. Avoid having to spend hours rummaging your house for just a single key, clean it all up, organize everything, and get rid of all the bundles of mess that were built up overtime. Keep everything in place and immediately have access to your treasured items.

4. Decluttering helps in making extra cash during the summer.

You’ve read that right. The thing about clutters is that they’d often mix your belongings so much that you’d never realize which item is still useful and which item is no longer being used at all. The latter is usually left untouched within the pile that you wouldn’t even notice its mint condition, in spite of all the recent years of use. Gadgets, apparel shoes, and even jewelries can get lost in the mix. When you buy yourself newer versions of these things, you wouldn’t even bother to have a second look at your pre-loved items, thus, leaving you with a goldmine that you never even realized that you had. Declutter your home, gather all of your pre-loved items which are still in mint condition, then sell them off via a garage sale or a pawnshop. The best thing about this isn’t just the cleanliness and orderliness of your home, but it’s also about the extra cash you’d make once you’re able to sell off your old stuff. Just make sure that the items you’re going to sell or pawn off are still in good working condition, unless you want to be accused of selling off broken items, and that would be illegal.

Now, after you’ve decluttered your home and are ready to make extra cash out of your old belongings, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most secure, reliable, and honest service and highest appraisal possible. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With their Pawning Service you can never go short in any amount, as they accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its more than 2,500branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Mobile applications, they make everything faster and more convenient to accomplish. There used to be a time when paying your utility bills meant that you’d have to wait in line between thirty minutes to over an hour. Nowadays, that very same transaction can be accomplished faster with the push of a button. Of course, that’s not the only tasks that would require a huge chunk of time to process, activities such as submitting government paperwork, reserving tickets to an event or movie, and job applications are also known for this type of wait length. And we haven’t even touched on the time of your commute yet, as the time spent in line doesn’t even account for the time that you’d invest on your travel to and from the process venue. In such case, the rise of mobile applications which offers to ease up every tasks has everyone hooked, to the extent that they’d never have to experience waiting for thirty minutes or more amongst hundreds (or sometimes, even thousands) of onlookers.

Indeed, mobile applications (or apps, as they are now called) have become the “partners” of the average Filipino in their everyday lives. For the most part, apps are used for communication purposes, enabling their users to message or call their family, friends, or loved ones without having to spend too much on call and text rates. There are also instances in which they may send videos and pictures over apps, letting their “audiences” and followers know of their current or most recent activities. Definitely, this would only be limited to the people who has access to their personal pages, nonetheless, they would be updated in real time. If that isn’t enough, apps are also used as references for on-the-fly information. When we say on-the-fly, we are talking about information in need of sudden validation by the users. If an app user wants to find out the correct spelling of the word, a dictionary app would be most appropriate for the task. If that very same user wants to confirm the soup of the day from a specific restaurant, there is also an app which would indicate that. So overall, apps are like your daily human companions. They help you out in times of need, without breaking a sweat or wasting precious time in determining validated information.

Answering with valid information, is that all an app does?
No, as a matter of fact, most apps out there does more than simply telling you the correct spelling and definition of a word. There are apps that schedule your vacation itinerary, there are apps which calculates your electricity usage, and there are even apps which determines which delicacy has the highest calorie count, enabling you to avoid said food. This is the reason why some people consider mobile apps as daily companions, due to the fact that it does most of the tedious task for them, saving them a lot of time in doing more important things like their regular work and routines. Considering that even the simplest task may require a huge amount of time in analyzing the outcome, you may think that they are vital for an average person’s daily activities, and you may actually be right.

Cebuana Lhuillier’s eCebuana App
With all of that in mind, there is a particular cellphone app which has recently been making the waves due to their easy functionality and accessibility. The amount of things which this app can do definitely amazed a lot of people, going as far as revolutionizing the way that they’ve undergone the usual processes when it came to their financials and payment obligations. We are talking about Cebuana Lhuillier’s newly introduced eCebuana App. Now, you may ask, “What exactly is the eCebuana App? What are the things that I’d be able to accomplish using this app?” Well, look no further than the following info.

What kind of app is it exactly?
Cebuana Lhuillier’s eCebuana App allows Filipinos to access the different features of Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings wherever they are and whenever they want to. Cebuana Lhuillier is aware of the average Pinoy’s need to accomplish tasks in a timely and direct manner, hence, why they came up with this amazing solution to connect everyone to one of their vital services in order to help cut time in processing their transactions and to enable them to avoid the hassles of long lines as well. So you’d never have to invest fare money for commute, and neither would you ever need to line up as well just to have your preferred transaction processed.

Okay, it sounds good, but what are its main functionalities?
The Micro Savings service from Cebuana Lhuillier is definitely recognized as one of the establishment’s main services, so much that they came up with the app to avoid the build-up of people within their branches. People who are hoping to pawn off their pre-loved items would still need to bring their said items personally in order to have them appraised, but Micro Savings patrons may just simply handle their transactions using the app, as such transactions can be accomplished, even with no physical appearance. The following are the things you may accomplish in-app:

1. It allows the app user to check their balance.For those who are hoping to check the total amount of their current savings, they may do so within the app. No longer would you have to go outdoors just to do that.
2. It allows the app user to perform money transfers.Have a relative in the province who is currently in need of financial assistance? You may transfer whatever amount you’d want to provide from your own account towards their own Micro Savings account. You can also transfer money towards their bank accounts, given that you’ve been given their bank details.
3. It allows the app user to send money.This is similar to the previous functionality, with the exception that the ones receiving the cash amount doesn’t have their own Micro Savings account. In such case, they may have to visit a Cebuana Lhuillier branch to receive the money. You, on the other hand, do not need to go outside your house in order to accomplish this, as this process can still be done through the app, given that your account has the appropriate amount.
4. It allows the app user to load prepaid credits to their phones.It does what exactly the description says. You no longer have to stroll towards your local sari-sari stores just to have your cellphone number loaded. You can just reload directly from your Micro Savings account.
5. It allows the app user to pay their bills by integrating it to their micro savings account.One of the most time-saving things you can do through the app is paying your utility bills. No longer would you need to commute and stand in line for minutes or so. You can do that at the comfort of your home, with the help of the app.

Download the eCebuana App now! Available at the Google Playstore.

Love has many forms, the same way that love may be expressed in various ways. The Valentine’s season is the perfect opportunity for us to express that love, whichever way we may choose. For the most part, everyone has already planned and sorted out their own ways in showing their love towards the people that matter to them. That certain thing is easy to do, especially if they happen to be in the same house as their loved ones. But how about the OFWs who live abroad? How would they be able to show that they care? How can they reciprocate the love that their family has been showing them throughout the routine overseas calls and Social Media chats? The answer is very simple, and has been a staple activity of OFWs for many decades. Simply put, through the noble act of sending money from abroad.

Money remittance has stood the test of time, ever since the very first influx of Filipino workers abroad. People tend to forget that OFWs have a definite reason as to why they would endure long periods of time being away from their families, and that isn’t even for their own personal gain. No, it is all because of their loved ones, the very family that they hold dear in their heart. They’re the reason, they’re the priority, and they’re the catalyst.

Why do OFWs prefer to work abroad?
Everyone has their own reason as to why they would prefer to work abroad. The thing is, it isn’t even a matter of having a deeply-rooted plan with regard to working in a faraway place.. If given the choice, our beloved OFWs would have chosen to work here in the Philippines, just so they may see their loved ones every day. However, major factors such as job shortages, the dwindling economy, the low pay, and even the hefty travel commute would usually get in the way of a good lifestyle and livelihood, hence, they would have to make one of the hardest decisions of all, in one way or the other, and that is to leave their family here in the country in order to provide for them sufficiently.

How many OFWs are there as of late?
Data gathered from the 2018 Survey on Overseas Filipino showed that there were at least 2.3 million Filipinos abroad. The Overseas Contract Workers, those of which who has an existing work contract comprised 96.2% of the total number of OFWs during the period of April 2018 to September 2018. To be more specific, Saudi Arabia was the leading country where our OFWs flock to, with 24.3%. Other popular destinations were United Arab Emirates (15.7 %), Hong Kong (6.3 %), Kuwait (5.7 %), Taiwan (5.5 %), and Qatar (5.2 %). Take note that these were data gathered from 2018. The numbers may have changed up until the time of writing of this article (year 2020), but the government is working non-stop, in order to gather and compute for that updated data. It’s either the numbers going up, or some of the percentages going down, only for other countries to come into equation as the new destination for modern OFWs. In such case, even small percentages in comparison are still worth thousands, if not, hundreds of Filipinos who are giving it their all in order to provide for their families.

With OFWs being far away from their families, how do they express their care even without their presence?
This is best done by the very purpose that motivated them to go abroad, and that is to provide for their loved ones back at home. We Filipinos regard our OFWs highly, and that is for a very good reason. The sacrifice that they do on a daily basis is an epitome of their unwavering motivation to give their families a good life. In the modern era, countless Filipinos are stationed abroad, giving it their all, with no regard for their own safety and well-being, most of the time. Even in countries which are on the verge of war, you may have seen news reports of Filipinos not wanting to come home, as it may lower their chances of ever going back once everything settles and reforms are made. They’d prefer to be in the heat of the action, going as far as sacrificing their own well-being, just to ensure that their kids would are provided for back at home to pursue their education.

It may seem impractical and senseless at first glance, but remember, these sacrifices are done for their loved ones to have a good life. No amount of money or sense of self-preservation may compare to the happiness that they’d incur once they see their families enjoying a full and bountiful future.

If being an OFW is the perfect job to convey that care, through the wonderful world of money remittance. What is it like being an OFW?
Unfortunately, being an OFW doesn’t protect you from the possibility of employment abuse. It was once said that employment conditions abroad are relevant to the individual worker and their families, as well as for the sending country and its economic growth and well-being. Poor working conditions for Filipinos hired abroad include long hours, low wages, and just a few chances to visit their family. With that being said, it’s not all fun and games for our beloved Overseas Filipino Workers. We’ve mentioned on multiple occasions how being an OFW has its risks as well, that they put their bodies on the line just for a fair wage. There may even be injustices to their regular pay grade, so even if they wanted to, their remittances are limited according to the pay that they’ve received. Of course, we’ve got lots and lots of regulations put in place in order to protect the OFWs from abuse, however, not all of them are being implemented, let alone being checked or updated to fit the context of the modern OFWs.

Giving credit where credit is due
We Filipinos always value our families. If that’s the case, then even the Overseas Filipino Workers themselves know that the surefire way of showing their appreciation would be sending back money to those who’ve shown unwavering support for them during their woes and triumphs. It just so happens that Valentine’s Day is a day that amplifies that deed, as everyone is more than aware of the kindness and concern they’ve received from others, and that they are more than willing to show them back. A round of applause and a standing ovation for the OFWs who are consistent in doing this, with no months skipped, thus, continuing to help their loved ones out with the expenses while also providing more cash within the economy’s circulation.

However, that is made possible only by a trustworthy remittance center that has stood by OFWs for more than 30 years, and nothing indicates a more trusted name than Cebuana Lhuiller. With Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pera Padala Service, you are ensured an easy, quick, and safe way to send and receive money. With 2,500 branches nationwide, 6,500 established domestic partners, and 1.5 million physical and virtual touchpoints their money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. All transactions are done in real time, which enables clients to claim the money as soon as the sender completes the sending process in the branch. So for our beloved OFW patrons, feel free to visit any of our international partners – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

For a complete list of our international partners, you may visit our website at https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/pera-padala/

Insurance – everyone needs them, yet, not everyone is aware of that fact yet. People know the word, but do not have any idea about what insurance is and the advantages of owning one. The thing is, people always tend to get too complacent in life, not knowing that unexpected occurrences may happen from time to time. In such case, those people who were prepared would definitely get a huge cushion when life hits them hard. With that being said, investing on something important would ensure that the future of your family would not go to waste. It is always better to be prepared than sorry, and Cebuana Lhuillier is here to help you accomplish just that with ProtectMAX, with a little extra Grand Prize on the side.

What is ProtectMAX?
Cebuana Lhuiller’s ProtectMAX is a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old with Death Benefit, Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance, Accidental Dismemberment and/or Disablement, Murder and Unprovoked Assault and Residential Fire Reconstruction cash assistance. For as low as P50, each certificate is valid for four (4) months from the date of issuance and can be availed up to a maximum of 5 certificates per insured.

For a better understanding of what ProtectMAX is, just think of it as a more affordable alternative to those other insurances and micro insurances that you may have been hearing of before. Of course, they always come at a high cost, the thing is, ProtectMAX is the opposite of that, albeit the high-quality service and assurance they offer towards their customers/clients. You are better off investing in this particular Microinsurance than if your main priority is attaining an insurance that’s affordable and worth your hard-earned money. You may ask, “Well, that sounds great! But is my family qualified for this?” The definite answer is yes! The following are qualified beneficiaries for ProtectMAX:

Okay, such micro insurances usually allow me to have a beneficiary. Is my family qualified to be some of them?
No worries, they absolutely are. The qualified beneficiaries are your legal spouse, your kids who are of legal age (18 years old), your parents (which includes your mother and father), and your siblings (should be of legal age as well, married or single would still count).

As you can see, the list of beneficiaries aren’t really very limited, and it is understandable, as Cebuana Lhuillier is very much aware for the average Filipino’s need for a good insurance that would cover them in times of need.

What are the Premiums?
You just need to pay P50. That’s it, no tricks or gimmicks. For as low as P50, you may avail this amazing Microinsurance.

Of course, that’s not the only available premium. For just the price of P250, you may acquire a higher coverage:

Regardless of the premium that you’d avail, you’re sure to find value for your money and security for the future of your family. But even that would just be the tip of the iceberg, as the claiming process itself isn’t even difficult, unlike other establishments who are offering their insurance services. For Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMax, the process would entail the following:

The Claiming Process:

1) In the event of a claim, the claimant shall submit the complete claim at any Cebuana Lhuillier branch nationwide.

2) Cebuana Lhuillier Branch Personnel shall review the completeness of all claim documents and submit to Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions (CLIS) (depending on the type of claim) for claims evaluation and approval; the review shall be done in accordance with the guidelines of Pioneer Insurance and Surety Corporation (PISC).

3) CLIS will submit final advice, within 48 hours to the BP and claimant the status of the claim.

a. If a claim is approved, CLIS Head Office will pay the claimant in advance thru Pera Padala.

b.If the claim is Denied, CLIS Head Office shall send letter of denial to the claimant.

For the requirements, be sure to transact with authorized Cebuana Lhuillier personnel for more information.

That’s great and all, but do they have any current Promos that goes along with the micro insurance?
Yes, as a matter of fact, they do. From February 1, 2020 to April 30, 2020, you’d be able to participate in their “Bagong Taon, Bagong Motorsiklo E-Raffle Promo.” For every purchase of four (4) ProtectMAX micro insurance in a single transaction, a client would be given one (1) e-raffle entry. That e-raffle entry is for the chance to win one (1) Motorcycle on their grand draw! They will be giving away a total of eight (8) motorcycles, one per region, hence, eight lucky names will be drawn on May 4, 2020. The deadline of entries is on April 30, 2020, 11:59 P.M, so be sure to visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier as soon as possible.

Promo Terms and Conditions:
a) How many times may I participate in this promo?
-Only once, as you’d only be eligible to avail a total of four (4) ProtectMax per name.

b) How many e-raffle entries can I get after availing four (4) ProtectMax?
-You are only entitled to one (1) e-raffle entry.

c) How would I know if I won the e-raffle draw?
-Authorized Cebuana Lhuillier personnel will be sending the lucky winners a notification letter towards their address, which is why it is highly advised for the clients to update their complete address from time to time.

d) How will the winners acquire their grand raffle prize?
-All winners are advised to visit their nearest branch and present the notification letter which was sent to them, along with a valid ID (complete with their photo). From there, they would need to fill out an Acknowledgement Receipt and provide a testimonial towards the branch manager regarding the win.

With that being said, you may very well be on your way to availing this wonderful insurance offered by Cebuana Lhuillier. You may visit your nearest branch to know more about ProtectMax and the “Bagong Taon, Bagong Motorsiklo E-Raffle Promo.” Remember to transact only with our authorized personnel. All transactions are safely done within the safety of our establishments.

Valentine’s Day is always the perfect opportunity for us to give our loved ones the perfect gift. In such case, giving them something valuable and shiny may be the go-to idea. It’s been a norm to give jewelry on Valentine’s Day, after all. Husbands and boyfriends would often do that in order to please the woman of their lives. Giving them a gift that would last a lifetime definitely brings a very positive vibe to a lasting relationship. And not to be mistaken for materialistic importance, it’s all in the effort of coming up with something that would make an impact. You may have heard of other guys giving their loved one a ring, a necklace, a bracelet, etc. And admittedly, they do not come cheap. The amount of money you may be able to spend on Valentine’s Day is understandably limited, as there are far better things that you should be investing your money in, and shiny gifts shouldn’t be your top priority, especially if it’s going to be given in a seasonal event. No, you should set aside amounts for your future needs and investments, separating your seasonal expenses (Christmas gifts, Valentine’s Day gifts, etc.) from your vital funds.

With that being said, it’s possible that you may still be thinking about what to give your loved ones. Jewelry is an obvious choice, but as we’ve said, it may not always be practical, budget wise. “Then what may I give her instead?” you may ask. Well, we have a couple of tips that may resound better with your budget in the long run. These ideas, when done correctly would definitely put a smile on your loved one’s face. Aside from that, your wallet will be kept safe, without any need of ever breaking out any huge amount in order to impress your loved one. Of course, results may still vary, depending on your loved one’s preferences and lifestyle, but isn’t love all about taking risks? Shouldn’t you be more motivated in knowing that impressing her takes a bit of a challenge? That’s what true love is, after all.

1. A simple dinner.

The value of a particular gift isn’t always about the longevity of the items itself; it’s all about the experience that comes with receiving that very gift. The thing about the word “gift” is that it often comes off as a much generalized concept. A gift may be in the form of an item, a gift may come in the form of a song, a gift may come in the form of a memory, and it may also come in the form of an experience. This very first tip actually takes advantage of that very last form. You see, there is a saying that goes, “The best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” In such case, wouldn’t the same thing apply to women as well? If you opt to prepare a romantic dinner for your loved one or significant other, wouldn’t they value that more, due to the fact that you’ve visibly put as much effort as winning her heart before the start of your relationship? Great things always come in small packages, and even a simple romantic dinner would melt even the coldest heart of a woman. This is further amplified if you happen to cook for her, no hired waiters, no cooks, just invite her over at your home and cook her favorite delicacy. May it be local or foreign food, learn it, master it, and impress her with your skills. Trust us, she’s bound to remember it for a lifetime.

2. Going to the movies/cinema.

This tip would work to your advantage due to one simple fact, movie producers and studios would often time their movie releases during seasonal events. Haven’t you noticed, during December, there are a ton of Holiday themed movies? Some of them are even signed up for the country’s film festival within the same month. The same thing would usually happen during Valentine’s season. There are a ton of romantic comedies and tearjerkers being shown in the theaters to capitalize on the season, and the movie producers are very much aware of their possible profits. This isn’t a one way window of advantage for them though, as even the movie goers (including you and your loved one) are given multiple movies to choose from. Multiple movies would mean countless choices to enjoy during Valentine’s Day. The combinations of love story and other genres (just to pass them off as a legitimate Valentine’s Day release) somehow even gives you the chance to watch multiple movies with your partner. Take note, however, that seasonal movie releases would also garner a huge crowd in the theaters, so if you’re going to treat your loved one to the movies, be sure to reach the venue early, to avoid the long lines when buying tickets.

3. Going out of town for a short vacation.

Now, “Hold on!” you might say. “Aren’t vacations expensive? I thought these tips are supposed to help me treat and impress my loved one without breaking the bank?” Well, you are absolutely right. The first two tips are open alternatives to treating your special someone to a unique, yet, affordable Valentine’s Day experience. However, this third tip is all about the allowance. When we say allowance, we are referring to an extra amount that you are willing to shell out, without affecting your savings in the process. If you happen to have a huge amount that is leftover from your Christmas bonus, and you’ve managed to set aside an amount for your savings account already, then by all means, think outside the box and plan an out of town vacation with your loved one. Vacations do not necessarily have to be expensive, as remember, this is the Valentine’s season. Just like the movies, airline and travel companies are aware of the huge influx of lovers hoping to spend quality time together, so they’d plan out a couple of affordable packages for “two-person” travels. Take advantage of these “promos” and spend an unforgettable vacation with the woman that you love.

Now, these are just a couple of suggestions on how to spend your Valentine’s Day with a loved one, an appropriate gift of unforgettable experience for your significant other, if you may. The thing is, you may still find yourself scraping at the very last amount of savings in your account, hoping that it may fit your budget for this season of love. Don’t let that get in the way of your plans to impress her. There are always alternatives to receiving extra cash without having to borrow from a friend or a family member. Why not try pawning off some of your pre-loved items at home?

Cebuana Lhuillier has always been the leading establishment when it comes to pawning. Their Pawning Service ensures that you can never go short in any amount, as they accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its 2,500branches nationwide. So visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

We all want to show our loved ones how much they mean to us. In one way or another, we go out of our way in order to express our love, even in the most random way possible. This is further amplified during Valentine’s Day, because not only is it the most appropriate time to gift them with chocolates and flowers without seeming too pompous, but it would also show them that you are always there to make them feel that they are valued, regardless of the day or season. In such case, you may have been trying to come up with an appropriate gift that they would appreciate. Chances are, you are willing to spend a huge amount in order to impress your loved one. However, it is understandable that things may still seem a bit too tight at the moment, after all, the love month doesn’t really entail any form of bonus. No, all the bonuses have been given during the holidays, and you might have already spent them by now. In such case, your best bet would be finding alternatives to show your love and care towards your loved one. There are many affordable options for you to try out, but just in case you’re still clueless as to what these alternatives are, here are a couple of suggestions:

1) A tumbler.

It may not look much, but a simple drinking tumbler would be greatly appreciated by your loved one. Gifts do not always need to be full of hearts in order for you to show your care. Chocolates may give off that strong first impression, but that’s just exactly what it is, a first strong impression. Once the chocolates are eaten up, there may be nothing left to indulge on. A tumbler, on the other hand, would go the extra mile, in the sense that it isn’t meant for one-time use. They can be used after a workout, they can be used during lunch break at work, and they can even be used for a peaceful afternoon sip during the weekends. In this way, the recipient will always be reminded of your love and care whenever they do their tasks and work towards a better life. Now, if your goal is to really show that love during Valentine’s Day, the good news is, there are customizable tumblers out there which can be fitted with any image, thus, you may insert an image of your unforgettable date or a few fancy heart shapes. Most tumblers will only cost you a few hundred pesos. There are some tumblers sold in the market today which doesn’t even break the P400 to P500 mark.

2) A key chain.

If a drinking tumbler isn’t really your preferred type of Valentine’s Day gift, then perhaps you may give your loved one something more compact. Everyone always keeps their keys in the safest place possible, not wanting to lose it, unless they want to be locked out of their homes. Keys are a vital item that anyone may keep in their bags, in a drawer, or even in their wallets (though that would not really be advisable). More often than not, people forget where they put their keys, and that’s just normal, especially for people who have a lot on their mind. Luckily, key chains would make things easier by standing out from a plain background, so that their owners may see them immediately. Some key chains are even decorated with so much color, just so they would be recognizable at first glance. Key chains are a good gift for your loved ones, especially if they have the tendency to forget where they keep their most-valued items. The thing about key chains is that they are both affordable and customizable. You may gift one which has a picture of your loved one or their favorite cartoon character. It also comes in a very affordable price, so be sure to get one for your special someone this Valentine’s.

3) A greeting card.

This may be one of the most obvious choices when thinking of a Valentine’s Day gift. Often times, people underestimate the cheerful implications of a greeting. The thing is, what people need right now is to know that they are not forgotten. There are times in which we forget to greet our loved ones due to our busy schedules, always running against time, trying to catch the bus or jeep to work, not even hinting a smile or a warm “good morning!” This Valentine’s Day would be a great opportunity for you to express that they are loved, that you notice them,and that you are aware that they’re always there for you. A greeting card may seem too simple, but it’s not that you’re giving your loved ones a piece of thickened paper with fancy colors and fonts, it’s you giving them a reminder that you care. Greeting cards may be bought in your local bookstores or school supply shops. If you’re really saving up and are on a tight budget, then you may simply make your own Valentine’s Day greeting card. The more effort you’d put in your creation, the more that you’d be able to show how much they mean to you.

4) Take them out on a simple dinner.

Most gifts do not come in ornamental forms. Most of the time, it’s the hang outs and the dining experiences that counts. Why not take your loved ones on a dinner date? When we say dinner, we do not mean those expensive restaurants you’d usually see on Social Media advertisements. No, if your budget is limited, you don’t have to take them there. You may simply opt for a more affordable option, such as your local diners and fast food chains. After that, you may walk about and enjoy the romantic moonlight. Valentine’s Day gifts are like Christmas presents, it’s the thought that counts, not the form or price of the item. Your loved one will always keep your company, kindness, and care at heart, and making moments will be at the top of their head when looking back towards those precious memories, not on those expensive gifts.

Now that you’ve managed to know about these affordable Valentine’s Day gift options, you may very well be on your way to acquiring a significant amount of savings. The more you save, the more that you’d have in your bank for other events and expenses. With that in mind, you may be looking for a banking option that can manage all of your savings in a very secure manner. Well, we have a very trusted recommendation for you. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings product. At its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, but doesn’t require a maintaining balance. Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old are also qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account. In a way, it is very much optimized to serve the average Filipino in general, as it is very accessible. So what are you waiting for? Show your savings some love this Valentine’s Day. Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier now!

Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier with the 2019 International Service Excellence Award.

Cebuana Lhuillier has received the 2019 International Service Excellence Award from the Customer Service Institute of America (CSIA).This is the third gold certification that the country’s largest microfinancial services provider has received from CSIA—an organization which monitors and evaluates companies based on the world’s most recognized international customer service standards.

Cebuana Lhuillier bested other organizations around the world for the recognition in the large business category as it garnered a score of 9.22, the highest in the history of the International Customer Service Standard certification audit.

“We are extremely impressed with the innovations with regard to the products and service support for customers that they have put in place and their score reflects that,” said Christine Churchill Burke, CSIA founder and CEO.

“Having earned the highest score in the history of the ICSS is a manifestation of our unrelenting desire to provide our clients with only the best service they could get from a financial services company like Cebuana Lhuillier,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO.“This is indeed a wonderful way to kick off 2020, and I am proud of what we have become over the years. I am grateful that we are being recognized internationally year after year for our efforts to ensure that our customer service stays relevant, innovative and world-class,” Lhuillier said.Guided by its vision of empowering more Filipinos to have access to financial solutions, Cebuana Lhuillier has grown to become one of the country’s formidable financial services companies. It has expanded to 2,500 branches and 4,000 partner outlets nationwide, and 1.5 million combined physical and virtual touch points worldwide since it opened its first branch in Manila more than 30 years ago.

Brokerage makes insurance accessible for Filipinos. Cebuana Lhuillier has transformed its 20-year Ce-buana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions, Inc. to Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers, Inc. (CLIB), effectively becoming an insurance broker, to provide Filipinos with better access to more inclusive and affordable insurance. In partnership with insurance providers, CLIB will of-fer life and non-life insurance products through more than 2,500 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and 6,500 domestic partner outlets nationwide. The products will be offered digitally through the eCebuana mobile app, digital insurance marketplace ProtectNow, and online stores Lazada and Shopee. Photo shows Insurance Commissioner Dennis Funa (center), flanked by Cebuana Lhuillier Senior Executive Vice President Philippe Andre Lhuillier and President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier, unveiling the CLIB at the “Move with the Future” event in Shangri-La, Makati City. Joining them are Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers First Vice President and Group Head, Jonathan Batangan, and Cebuana Lhuillier First Vice President and Integrated Marketing and Communications Group Head Michael Sena.

Cebuana Lhuillier, the country’s largest microfinancial services provider, has introduced a new insurance brokerage company—Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers, Inc. (CLIB)—that aims to help provide Filipinos with better access to more inclusive and affordable insurance products and services.

2018 data from the Insurance Commission reveals that almost 40 million or only 37% of the country’s 105 million total population are covered by insurance. Further highlighting how getting insurance can be a challenge, owing to most Filipinos’ ineligibility for insurance, the inaccessibility of products, and high cost of premiums.

With CLIB, which transforms the 20-year-old Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions into a future-ready insurance broker, providing even more Filipinos with access to insurance that is affordable and designed for their everyday life. Moreover, Cebuana Lhuillier will offer an array of life and non-life insurance product made possible by their partnerships with an unlimited number of insurance providers and accessible through their state of the art digital platforms. The transformation into a brokerage company further highlights Cebuana Lhuillier’s capability to help Filipinos overcome the challenges in availing insurance.

“Today marks a new and exciting chapter in the history of Cebuana Lhuillier as we continue to champion financial inclusion—no longer just an agent, but a broker—providing Filipinos, regardless of their socioeconomic class, access to insurance products that fit their needs, financial capabilities and at the comforts of their own home,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO.

Cebuana Lhuillier is also expected to offer its newest portfolio of personal, health, property, group, loan, and business and liability insurance products through CLIB. These include CL Personal Accident Basic, CL Travel Prime, CL Pamilya Max, CL Health Dengue and Leptospirosis, CL Fire, Typhoon, Flood, EQ Care, CL Drive Lite, CL Tourista Protect, CL Hotel Guest Care, CL Passenger Care, CL Employee Care Plus, CL MicroBiz Protek, CL AgriCare, and Cyber Insurance.

CLIB aims to bring prospective insurance providers and buyers together through different touch points, including the eCebuana mobile app and ProtectNow, a digital one-stop insurance shop which allows clients to compare the lowest prices of insurance offerings and monitor their insurance policies and claims in real-time.

The insurance broker will also bring its partner products, along with Cebuana Lhuillier’s flagship Protect Max, to some of the country’s biggest online stores, including Lazada and Shopee.

On ground, CLIB will offer products in more than 2,500 Cebuana Lhuillier branches nationwide as well as through their 6,500 domestic partner outlets, giving their insurance partners a unique advantage of establishing their presence in most urban and rural communities, which is still considered a largely untapped insurance market.

During the launch event, dubbed “Move into the Future”, Lhuillier, together with Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions first vice president and group head, Jonathan Batangan, paid tribute to several insurance companies who have been their trusted partners through 20 years.

Representing some of the industry’s most prominent insurance companies were Pioneer Insurance group head and CEO David Coyukiat, Prudential Guarantee chairman and CEO Robert Coyiuto, Malayan Insurance Company president and CEO Paolo Abaya, Federal Phoenix Group Insurance president and CEO Generosa Pia de Rosa, Western Guaranty Corporation EVP and general manager Claire Chua, Standard Insurance Company Inc. chairman Patricia Chilip, AXA Philippines president and CEO Rahul Hora, and Philippine American Life and General Insurance Company president and CEO Kelvin Ang.

Cebuana Lhuillier senior executive vice president Philippe Andre Lhuillier (right) and Worldwide Cash Express Ltd. general manager Rashed Al Ansari sign the agreement to formalize the partnership.

Microfinancial services company Cebuana Lhuillier has partnered with Worldwide Cash Express Ltd. to further serve the money remittance needs of overseas Filipino workers in the United Arab Emirates.

The tieup provides OFWs with wider touch points for more convenient money transfers.

The remittances can be claimed in any of the 2,500 Cebuana Lhuillier branches nationwide.

Our OFWs are the modern day unsung heroes. All of them go through rigorous paperwork just to prove that they got what it takes to make a living abroad. After that, they have to go through the heartbreaking process of saying farewell to their loved ones for the time being, promising to come back after a year or two, with the hope of providing financial assistance back at home. Yes, we’ve heard this story countless times, with many success stories of families having bountiful lives thereafter and their patriarch or matriarch coming home safely to their families, yet, there are also those who do not come back unscathed, suffering low pay and abuse from their foreign employers. As sad and heartbreaking as these stories may be, our fellow Filipinos are not intimidated by the risks, still strengthening themselves for the tough job prospect ahead in order to give their loved ones a good, bountiful life. This is further supported by recent data gathered by the PSA (Philippine Statistics Authority), with the number of OFWs reaching an all high estimate of 2.3 million during and between the periods of April to September 2018. Take note that the data was gathered back in 2018, more than a year has passed, hence, the number may have grown by then. In such case, you can imagine the amount remitted by our beloved OFWs, reaching millions every month, thus further contributing to the economy. After all, the money sent to their loved ones are utilized to avail their daily needs, and these needs contain the usual taxes, hence, they go straight to the government, which would then use these funds to provide a much improved economy to the people. No wonder our OFWs are known as one of the unsung heroes.

With that being said, there is no doubt that they contribute more to the country than most of us could possibly know. There is a common misconception that these remittances helps nobody but their loved ones, but that cannot be any further from the truth. Remember, every time that their family would spend these remittances, they include taxes which the government can use to provide us with helpful economic programs. Even tuition fees have a particular amount dedicated to tax, so there is no way that these remittances are only helping an OFW’s family members. Now, you may say, “Okay, since these remittances are important to the economy, then it would only be reasonable enough that the remittance process itself should be well-secured and trustworthy.” Well, you are definitely correct. The thing about most remittance centers is that they are convenient to interact with, yet, have countless loopholes, in terms of their security and privacy. You may have heard stories of an OFW’s family back at home not being able to receive any amount, as the money has been swindled out of their reach. This isn’t a new thing, as this has been happening for decades. The good news is that, with the enhancements in technology, the remittance process has been made more secure than ever, with thieves only ever getting away with the money due to human error on the part of the receivers.

In certain cases, the error isn’t even on the part of the receiver, but on the one who is sending the money back at home. Take note that when we say “human error,” this usually means not being careful when it comes to sending or receiving the money. There are proper procedures when undergoing the remittance process, and once these procedures aren’t met or followed, people who do not have your best interest in mind may take advantage. But don’t worry, we had prepared a few tips for you to follow just in case you are unsure of what to do:

a. Transacting with unauthorized agents and unverified remittance centers.

The rule of thumb for OFWs would be to validate whether or not they are dealing with trustworthy individuals. Do not give your amount to any person claiming to be a representative of a remittance company outside of the main establishment. Be sure that you are within the premises of the remittance center, and that they are behind the transaction counter, complete in uniform and valid work ID. Remember, there will always be those who do not have our best interest in mind, and being a wise and cautious sender would be the best way to avoid them. Also, take note of the main establishment, and whether or not they are verified remittance partners. If not, it would be best to avoid them and to search for a much trusted option. This same rule goes towards the ones receiving the remitted amount. Only speak with authorized personnel, and not those who are claiming to “ease up the transaction process.” The common term for these types of people would be “fixers.”

b. Sending the wrong control number.

For the usual money remittance process, your loved ones at home should have a few valid IDs and the control number ready. While valid IDs are an easy thing to have around, regardless of transaction types, the control number should be a 100% correct. You will be given the control number from your end, after which, you should immediately send it to your loved ones, either by text or online message. Make sure that every digit is sequenced correctly or your family would not be allowed to receive the amount. Of course, the authorized remittance personnel are only doing their job in making sure that the right person would receive the secured amount, hence why utmost care should be taken when sending and receiving the control number. If you are the receiver of the financial assistance, never give your control number to anyone, let alone share it with strangers or post it on Social Media.

c. Providing the wrong details.

Understandably, everyone goes through rigid stress every once in a while. That usually causes loss of focus and concentration. If you happen to be experiencing that while trying to remit or receive money, take time to settle down and gather your mind. You function better when taking deep breaths. Double-check the details that you’re going to provide for the remittance transaction. Check if the names are correctly spelled, make sure that they can be easily read by the remittance agent, and that the contact numbers are in place. For OFWs, your recipients would have a hard time receiving the cash, especially if there are spelling errors, as the remittance agents from their end would usually require a valid ID for verification, and if the spellings don’t match, then they will refuse to release the amount to your loved ones.

Remember these short tips and you’re all set to complete the remittance process, whether you’re the one sending the money or you’re the one receiving it. Of course, you still need to look for a well-trusted option, in order to ensure the smooth processing of the transaction. Speaking of a much trusted option, you may be ready to send your hard-earned money to your family back at home; however, you are still undecided as to which remitting center you should transact with. Well no need to look any further. With Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pera Padala Service, you are ensured an easy, quick, and safe way to send and receive money. With 2,500branches nationwide and 1.5 million global touchpoints, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. All transactions are real time, which enables clients to claim the money as soon as the sender completes the sending process in the branch. So for our beloved OFW patrons, feel free to visit any of our international partners – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

The New Year has finally landed and you are given the option to either make it big or not this year. If your previous year has been a very bountiful one then good for you, at least you were lucky enough to raise your savings and accomplish your recent resolution, something that most, if not all, has a hard time achieving even once or twice through their lives. If your recent year has been a downer, whatsoever, no need to feel bad about it, as this would only mean that you have more chances of accomplishing it this year. 2020 marks a new beginning, a new year, a new decade, and a fresh start for your investments. Speaking of which, have you already thought about expanding your horizons this year? Have you already planned out on which venture you’re bound to invest your savings from the previous years? The thing about 2020 is that many companies and institutions are hoping to expand. If you happen to have the right amount, investing in one of them would land you a good regular income. If that’s not your thing, however, and you decide to go solo and invest on something that you can solely capitalize on, then these following ideas and recommendations may just be the right ones for you:

1. A small business

This is always the first option when it comes to proper investments. Now, you may ask, “Why is it just a small business? If I have the money, why don’t I establish a big business model right away?” Well, you have a point, indeed, you may have the appropriate savings to go big from the very beginning. Everyone wants to earn big right away, so starting big would mean getting back something big as well in return, right? Well, that would actually be unwise. Any business consultant and professional would tell you to establish it small first. Yes, risk is always part of a business venture, but there are also appropriate risks which should be taken at the right time. Taking on a big risky business model right away without any Plan B would be too disastrous for your funds if things do not go according to plan. This is true, especially for beginners. Big risks doesn’t always equate to big success. After all, there’s a reason why it’s called a “risk” in the first place. Start out small, test the waters, gain experience, and once you’ve found solid ground and foundation for your business model, increase your venture, slowly but surely. Be wise about every step. You can also secure your business MicroBiz Protek, a microinsurance product for only P540.

2. An insurance plan

One of the best investment that you may give both to yourself and to your loved ones would be an insurance plan. In the Philippines, there is a negative belief that getting an insurance plan would mean that you are either inviting accidents or something worse into your everyday life. That is a common misconception and should not be believed at all. An insurance plan is a wise investment, as it would cover any expense that may arise, just in case something unfortunate would happen. The thing is, in spite of our alertness and vigilance, accidents and calamities may still happen. Most of the time, it’s not even our fault, we just end up in the wrong place at the wrong time. In such case, avail an insurance plan that may cover accident, illness, death, property damages, etc. so that you wouldn’t have to spend too much on the expenses. These occurrences cost a lot, and insurances would cover them, enabling you to cut cost and save for the foreseeable future, may it be for needs or wants. You do not even need to avail the most expensive premium, as there are insurance plans which are flexible enough to fit your current budget. Feel free to discuss further with authorized insurance personnel to know more about your options. This may not seem like a proper way to double or triple your money, but think about it, wouldn’t it at least save you hundreds and thousands? Wouldn’t that be equivalent to earning money as well in the long run? For personal insurance, you can check out Protectmax, a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old.

3. House funds and savings

Everyone wants to own a house. You may be thinking of buying a plot of land for your family, and even planning on having a well-structured home on top of it. The thing is, these would require huge amounts. If you happen to win the lottery one day then all of your troubles are now gone. Congratulations! But that certain type of luck doesn’t really come to people like drops of rain on a bad weather. Most, if not all, have to work really hard in order to have enough for a home, a house and lot that they can shelter their loved ones in. For the most part, it would take countless years in order to attain a completely made and furnished home. It takes decades for the average Filipino to even own a house under their very own name, let alone, the whole plot of land itself. The good thing is, there are stutter payment options for Pinoys who would like to invest a part of their earnings each month towards a home developer. There are flexible choices out there, allowing people to either invest monthly or annually from their very own pockets. Yes, it would still take years and years of investing to finally own a house, but think about this, the younger you start, the quicker you’d have that house well-invested enough to be ready by the time you’re into your mid-30’s or 40’s. Some would even plan it out as a retirement option, so after they quit and acquire their pension, they’d just simply settle down in their home and enjoy the benefits of their long tenure. If you want to build your own house now, you may be interested to avail of Cebuana Lhuillier Bank Home Loan.

4. A Micro Savings account

For those who are not familiar with Micro Savings accounts, they are basically “a branch of microfinance, consisting of a small deposit account offered to lower-income families or individuals as an incentive to store funds for future use. Microsavings accounts work similar to a normal savings account, however, are designed around smaller amounts of money.” Since they are designed to cater “around smaller amounts of money,” they have a much simpler list of requirements, which means they are more accessible than your average bank account. Believe it or not, recent data has shown that not all Filipinos have a bank account of their own. Understandably, it is due to the complicated list of requirements by well-known banks around the Philippines, thus, making it too intimidating for the average Filipino. Micro savings aren’t like that. They are simpler, more accommodating, and easier to manage than normal bank accounts. With all of these in mind, you may be looking for a well-trusted name that would safely value the security of your hard-earned money. Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings services. At its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, but doesn’t require a maintaining balance. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier now!

Cebuana Lhuillier has done it again! Back in 2017, they launched their #Kaya Na: Unbanked Filipinos No More campaign, and in a matter of months, they were able to successfully motivate 2 million Filipinos to open their very own micro savings account. Now, in 2020, that number has gone up to 3 million micro savings account holders. Such a surge in numbers is definitely a crowning achievement for Cebuana Lhuillier, as in the recent years, they have been monitoring the data from the BSP (Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas), with the regards to the ever dwindling number of Pinoys without bank accounts. Understandably, people are having second thoughts about opening their own accounts due to the fact the requirements can be overwhelming, but not with Cebuana Lhuillier. Micro Savings has been a major forefront of their service recently and that certain factor has been going strong as we enter a new decade. You may ask, “What makes Cebuana Lhuillier a more efficient “bank” than the average bank itself? What did they get right that other banks didn’t?”

For someone new to Micro Savings, what is it and how significant is it for the financial growth of people?

Micro savings is “a branch of microfinance, consisting of a small deposit account offered to lower-income families or individuals as an incentive to store funds for future use. Microsavings accounts work similar to a normal savings account, however, are designed around smaller amounts of money.”

From that definition, we may conclude that it is indeed in the best interest of Filipinos to apply for a Micro Savings account. While that may be a simple equation at first, it isn’t that simple. Many are still doubtful of this concept, as more people trust banks with well-known names rather than your average pawnshop handling their finances. But that is exactly the point, a pawnshop that knows the value of your jewelries and appraisals would have a better idea of your budget since they happen to know the everyday struggles of Filipinos. Surely, no one would pawn off their items if they aren’t short on money.

Breaking through the barrier

With that being said, the next best thing to do would be to offer their Micro Savings services, however, the doubt that we’ve mentioned before seems to be a barrier that used to prevent Filipinos from applying for their own account, all of that seems insurmountable until Cebuana Lhuillier launched their campaign a year ago which, as everyone knows by now, was a complete success. That certain degree of success didn’t stop until the introduction of a new decade. 2020 seems to be the continuation of this campaign as 3 million Filipinos were able to put their trust in Cebuana Lhuillier’s capabilities to manage their finances. And rightfully so, as they were able to show their efficiency when handling people’s money, while at the same time maintaining the high amount of quality service that anyone would be proud of. But that’s not only the deciding factor. Remember when we said that Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings services was a much easier option than the average bank? We were not lying about that. For example, here are a list of requirements for a micro savings application:

• 1 Government issued ID
• Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
• Student ID (applicable only if student is currently enrolled)
• P50 minimum initial deposit
• P100 card fee (for clients w/o 24k card)

Of course, there are a wide list of  accepted valid IDs. Since the main aim is to make the service as accessible as possible, the other accepted valid ID are:

• Passport
• Driver’s License
• Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
• National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
• Police Clearance
• Postal ID
• Voter’s ID
• Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) e-Card
• Social Security System (SSS) ID
• Senior Citizen’s ID
• Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID
• OFW ID
• Seaman’s Book
• Alien Certification of Registration (ACR)
• Barangay Certificate or ID (with picture and signature)
• Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
• Firearm License
• Immigrant Certificate of Registration
• Marriage License
• National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons
• New TIN ID
• OWWA ID
• Student ID
• Alien Certification of Registration (ACR) / Immigrant Certificate of Registration
• Government Office or Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCC) ID (e.g. AFP ID, HDMF (Pag-ibig Fund) ID, etc.
• Certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
• Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID (IBP)
• Company IDs issued by private entities or institutions registered with or supervised or regulated either by the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas), SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) or IC (Insurance Commission)

After preparing these, interested applicants may simply go to any Cebuana Lhuillier branch and fill-out the Client Customer Information File Sheet. If you have kids which are below eight (8) years old, the good news is that you may also apply an account for them. Filipino citizens as young as seven (7) years old are qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account.

Other than that, what are the main details about Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings account? Look no further than this chart:

Everything seems to be reasonable from this standpoint, so it’s no wonder that Filipinos continued to support this service. That continued support may have spread more about Cebuana Lhuillier’s efficiency with their services, which is why many were convinced to apply for their own account. The amazing thing about this is 3 million wasn’t even a golden number, a goal that the acclaimed pawnshop hoped to achieve, as their main focus was on helping as many Filipinos as they can with regards to financial security and stability. Throughout the years, Cebuana Lhuillier has evolved from being just a mere pawnshop to an institution that utilized its many years of experience to assist Filipinos with their budget and needs. Yes, the mainstay pawning service still remains, but services such as the micro savings definitely cemented their legacy, even for years to come. If you aren’t convinced yet, don’t just take it from us, let the numbers speak for itself and experience the high-quality service that only Cebuana Lhuillier can provide.

With all of these in mind, you may be looking for a well-trusted name that would safely value the security of your hard-earned money. Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings services. At its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, but doesn’t require a maintaining balance. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now!

What a mess?! 2020 has arrived, and yet, you haven’t thrown out the unnecessary clutter over the past few weeks. The thing about clutter is that they often distract you from the things that you should be more focused on. You are given the opportunity to start the New Year right. You have to freshen up and initiate on your resolutions, yet, you can’t do that with items obstructing your path and attention. There may be old clothes, bags, shoes, gadgets, etc. lying around your room and you do not know what to do with them. You can either give them away or completely throw them out. Of course, giving them away to people in need would be a great course of action, but the opposite can also be said about throwing them out, especially if the items in question are still in good, working condition. Albeit these two choices, there is a third option that may better interest you, pawning them off. Pawnshops have since evolved from merely accepting jewelries to accepting a good, working cellular phone. Some pawnshops even accept TVs and appliances, depending on the terms and conditions. In such case, allow us to provide a few tips, with regards to getting rid of your accumulated clutter, while also making a few extra amounts in the process:

1. Pawning off your jewelries

Let’s start with the basics. When pawning off jewelries, the very first question you should be asking is whether or not you’d still use it. If the jewelry is still in great condition and it still catches your eye even after many years of possession, then by all means, keep it. Original jewelries last longer than fake ones. Keep the original and get rid of the fakes that you may have bought just for the fun of it (and temporary aesthetics). Fake ones tend to break easily, so you’re better off throwing them out. If you’re the type to organize your accessory drawer then at least you’d have no accumulated clutter, but if that’s not the case then at least have the sense to clean it up, declutter your drawers, and decide on what you’ll do with your old jewelries. Pawnshops like Cebuana Lhuillier would usually provide a fair and high appraisal on pawned items, depending on the condition of the item itself. It is for this very reason why you should visit them one of these days, or immediately after cleaning up your home, in order to gain a few amounts in the start of the year.

2. Pawning off gadgets

Every year, cellular phone manufacturers would introduce a new make or model of their flagship phones. While every iteration of these device would seem fantastic at first glance, the sad reality remains that they are just mild upgrades, yet, are still being sold at a high price. If you happen to have your cellphone with you, think carefully about whether or not you’re ready to buy a new one. If your phone still functions like a charm, then by all means, keep it. If you think that it has ran past its well-needed use, however, then you may still pawn it off. As with jewelries, you may need to inspect its efficiency and condition even before asking for an appraisal. Oh, and we almost forgot to mention. If you happen to have a clutter of old cellular phones lying around, test them out and validate if they still work. If they are working fine after all these years, perhaps you may try to pawn them off instead. Do not stock cellphones in your drawers, by the way. There are certain dos and don’ts regarding this. If you’re no longer using a cellphone unit, take off the battery and keep it at a safe box. Regularly check the batteries as well for any forms of leaks or air bubble. They tend to explode when left unchecked, it is also for this very reason why you should inspect them carefully before running straight to the pawnshop, as you wouldn’t want an exploding device to go off during the appraisal process. Maintain them when not in use so you may still pawn them off at the right time.

3. Pawning off appliances

What else can we say about appliances? While not all pawnshops accept them, there are still some who do. Television, refrigerators, washing machines, you name it. As with all items which can be pawned off, make sure that they work well. Refrigerators which no longer freezes, washing machines which no longer spins, and televisions which only gives off sound are a perfect example of appliances which shouldn’t even make it to the appraisal stage. You might even be rejected at the items first glance, if the outer aesthetics do not meet well-regulated item standards. Remember, if it’s broke, you’re better off giving it to the junk shop than to the pawnshop, at least the junk shop would accept it with no hesitation.

Now that we’d discuss the various possible items that you can pawn off from your clutter, let us discuss the negative effects of having them around with the huge mound of mess in your home. Here are the negative effects of clutter:

a.  It may aggravate your senses – Clutter gives you that certain senses overload. You have lots of items around you that it almost becomes unbearable to focus on one thing.

b.  It may hinder your progress – Have you ever encountered a tasks which would require you to move from one place to another? Imagine how long it would take if your every move is obstructed by a clutter?

c.  It may trigger your allergy – Clutter has a certain way of housing germs and pests. Do not make the mistake of creating an unwanted ecosystem indoors. Clutter would shelter these germs and allergens which may irritate your senses as well. Be sure to clear everything out before that happens.

d. It may trigger stress, resulting to weight gain – You’ve read that right, stress is equals to weight gain. We know that you’d be more worried about and focused on the weight gain part and not the “clutter causes stress” part, so we thought of emphasizing on your biggest worry. Avoid weight gain, avoid accumulating clutter.

e.  It prevents you from starting anew – A New Year means a fresh start, and you would not be able to achieve that if you still have a lot of old stuff lying around. This doesn’t mean that you should spend money on buying new items, but rather, getting rid of all the old items that you no longer use on an everyday basis.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawnshop that would provide you with the most secure, reliable, and honest service and highest appraisal possible. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With their Pawning Service you can never go short in any amount, as they accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and a high appraisal rate in the industry in its 2,500 branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Hindi lang mataas ang appraisal, may chance ka pang mag-uwi ng up to PhP50,000 sa grand draw o di naman kaya ay instant prize kung ikaw ang first time pawning client! Magsangla lang sa kahit saang Cebuana Lhuillier branch nationwide. See posters for more details. Per DTI-FAIR TRADE PERMIT NO. FTEB-24733 & FTEB-24735, SERIES OF 2019.

Promo will run from January 15 to April 14, 2020 for new pawning and until July 14, 2020 for renewal.

As a parent, it is our duty to teach our kids the value of money at an early age. Knowing its true value and the various ways on how to use it properly would not only be beneficial for their mentality towards it as they grow, it would also orient them about the hard work that goes along with earning every centavo. Some parents would take the easy way out and simply give their kids around twenty (20) to fifty (50) Pesos, hoping to distract them for a bit until they come back to ask for more. This isn’t the right way to raise them. Responsible parents would rather choose to discipline them at an early age, make them face the hard truth about money and the pitfalls that goes along with overspending them.

For those who have yet to experience teaching their kids about this valuable lesson and are totally clueless on how to do it efficiently, look no further than our list of tips (and tricks) about financial management at an early age and the merits to teaching it at that very stage.

First of all, let us address something very important

Understandably, one of the many things that may happen while teaching your kids the value of money is that they may compare your expenditures with that of their playmate’s parents. The thing is, not everyone has an executive position at work, so while their playmate’s parents may be making hundreds of thousands a month, your couple of thousands would definitely be lower, hence, resulting to a tighter budget. You may hear your kids say, “Why does Peter’s parents buy him toys every payday, while I only get them every holiday?” There is no shame in telling your kids the truth, never make up excuses or funny stories, instead, let them know of your financial situation. Orienting your kids as early as now would definitely do wonders in the long run.

With that out of the way, here are a few valuable tips to teach your kids on how to save and manage their finances at an early age:

1.) Tell them that every cent earned is a result of long hours of work.

There is no such thing as a free lunch. Explaining this at first to your kids may be tough, but the easiest way to do this would be to compare your job with their school work. Students who submit their assignments and are active in recitations would get higher grades than those who do not exert any effort. The same thing applies to your job, with countless hours spent filing papers, hammering nails, washing plates, etc. in order to receive a salary every cut off of the month. Take this tip as a form of hitting two birds with one stone, not only would they understand the value of money, they would also be inspired to study hard. Hard work always pays in the end.

2.) Every item bought has its particular use.

Kids without discipline would often buy candies and knick knacks, enjoying it all for a short period of time, until they run out of short change and beg for more from their parents. The thing about kids not knowing the value of money is that they also don’t know the importance of buying something that should be useful for a long time. Adults would purchase air conditioners, refrigerators, flat screen TVs, desktop computers, cellphones, etc. in order to have something to use on a daily basis, a useful appliance or gadget of sorts. Kids aren’t aware of this concept, but they would easily understand once you use their toys as an example. Choose their most favorite toy and ask them how often do they play with it? If they answer “too often,” then you’d know that you hit the spot. Tell them that items as important as their favorite toy are bought with hard-earned money, and the same rule should apply to all of the things that they’d purchase in the future. School supplies, books, clothes, all of it should be a top priority rather than junk foods and knick knacks.

3.) Let them know that saving money is a sign of being nice, not naughty.

Kids always expected Santa Claus to swoop down from the roof and bring them presents every Christmas day. This belief holds true until this very day. In such case, use this to your advantage in teaching them about managing their finances, tell them that Santa doesn’t like kids who overspend. That being a good kid entails one to save, instead of overspending everything.

4.) Make them realize that Christmas season isn’t the only season for discounts and low budget purchases.

Orient them about the other national holidays, and how the major manufacturers (such as the ones who sell their favorite toys) are aware of these other holidays as well, so that they wouldn’t need to worry when it comes to missing out on the nice things this Christmas. It doesn’t mean that you are depriving them of gifts and treats, but rather, they should at least learn to set aside a few amounts for other future expenses. Develop this at their early age and it would be very advantageous to them in the long run.

5.) Don’t just teach them, reward them.

Every triumph deserves a trophy. Remember, one of the tip above entails that they wouldn’t need to spend, since Santa already has them covered. In such case, it is up to you to reward them for a valuable lesson learned. Give them a reason to not spend their pocket money, by providing them with a gift this Christmas. Of course, you don’ need to go all out. A simple gift such as a small toy or their preferred shoe or apparel would do the trick.

With all of these in mind, you may be looking for a well-trusted name that would safely value the security of your hard-earned money. Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings, at its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, but doesn’t require a maintaining balance. You will only need 1 government ID and atleast P50 initial deposit, Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old old are also qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier now!

Tracking your spending on a regular basis is tough. There might be a situation in which you have a lot of expenditures and bills to pay off, hence, you aren’t keeping tabs on your budget at all, so as long as you’re able to settle all bills and debts. For that matter, you may have an even tougher time tracking your expenses this holiday season, due to the fact that, while it may be a season of being jolly and generous, it is also a season where expenditures are multiplied tenfold. You may have settled your bills as of late, but other expenses such as gifts, the materials used to wrap them with, your company Christmas party contributions, the food for the Noche Buena, etc. are all added variables that may balloon your planned budget for the month. And these added variables are not what you regularly have at your budget list, or at least not the most common thing you’d list down for your monthly expenses. In such case, you’d need a lot of help and valuable tips for tracking your expenditures this Yuletide season. Look no further than our important budgeting lists:

1.) Plan everything out beforehand.

Those who are prepared to face every obstacle or adversary always has a bigger chance of winning in the end. The same goes for tracking your expenses. What better way to do that efficiently than to have a master plan of your expenses, even before the holiday season begins. Consider plotting out the things you’d need to buy for the holidays, like gifts, the gift wrappers (yes, regardless if they cost a little less than a hundred, that is still an expense), food, replacement Christmas decorations, etc. After listing them down, combine them with the other things you’d normally write down in your monthly expense list. Of course, utility bills are still a priority. You wouldn’t want to spend Christmas Eve with no lights or connection at all. After that, you may go into detail, with regards to who are the people you are gifting this year. Be sure to list them down clearly, so you wouldn’t lose count and forget someone. And then, feel free to write down the food as well. It’s fine if you were to list down the deliverables for the Noche Buena at first, but never forget that you also have guests in the other days of the Yuletide season, which is why you should at least consider setting aside a few more amounts for your simpler “menu” for guests.

2.) Expenses are always easier to track if there are only a few in your lists.

If you think writing down your expenses is the hardest thing about tracking your financials this holiday season, think again. Eliminating items from your list is tougher. To put that into perspective, you are listing down things to purchase (gifts, food, clothes, decorations, etc.), and then having to choose which one of those you’d erase after. We are not saying that you’d erase the whole category in one go, what we mean is you’d have to choose a few of the things from the “sub-category.” For example, within the main category of food for this holiday season, not all of the food you have in mind would have to be prepared, or at least not the whole menu you had planned in advance. If you have too many sweets, then you may favor one dessert over the other. The same goes for Christmas decorations. Do you really need a new Christmas light? If the one you’ve used the year before still works, then scratch Christmas lights off your list, and focus on buying other holiday decors. Again, eliminating something from your list doesn’t necessarily mean erasing the whole thing, but at least reducing the amount or volume of that expense category. As we’ve said, it’s easier to track your expenditures without too much clutter on your budget list. With that in mind.

3.) Not everyone has to receive gifts this holiday season.

We do not mean to sound like the Grinch, but that is a most truthful statement right there. If you want to track your expenses in an efficient way, at least limit your gifting list to family and friends. You may eliminate workmates from the mix, since you’ve already contributed to the Christmas party, may it be financials or with exchange gifts. You may also want to eliminate your best friend’s cousin, your neighbors, and even your Barangay chairman. In short, focus on people who are the closest to you. This is efficient, in a way that you are very familiar with the people that matters most, you know what they like and what they don’t, you know the type of gifts that they would commend you for, you know where and when to buy these gifts. And having that much familiarity is the key to tracking and even predicting how much your gift expenses would be. You may get creative, go big, or even go small, so as long as you know, whatever you’re giving these important people in your life would be very much worth it. Of course, tracking your expenses isn’t far from reducing them. After all, isn’t that the purpose of you managing an expense list? So that you may monitor whether you’re going over your planned budget or not. You’ll always need to save and set aside a few amounts for future expenses.

With all of these in mind, you may be looking for a well-trusted name that would safely value the security of your savings during the holidays.
Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings, at its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, but doesn’t require a maintaining balance. You will only need 1 government ID and atleast P50 initial deposit, Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old old are also qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier now!

Our loved ones are the most precious ones in our lives. No material thing may ever replace them, no gold, no diamond, no silver may ever take their place. Indeed, irreplaceable are our parents, brothers, sisters, and even our best of friends. This Christmas season, we have the opportunity to let them know how important they are to us. We have the opportunity to give them something that would always tell them that they have a spot in our hearts, that we are thankful for them, that they matter. Of course, some, if not many, are able to show their greatest appreciation by gifts worth more than anyone can imagine. There are those who can afford gifting their loved ones with gifts which are above a few hundred, some are even way above thousands. atters most. But what if you do not have the budget to do that? What if you’re running on low funds due to the accumulated expenses of this Yuletide season? Do you simply give up on the notion of giving your loved ones something nice? Of course not! There are always alternatives to gifting a gift worth a thousand words (and thousand Pesos more), and you have all the resources in the world to do just that. Here are just a few affordable gift ideas for the holiday season:

1.) Get creative. Make the gift!

Arts in crafts will always be a part of humanity. Since the beginning of time, people have appreciated art, in many forms and sizes. In the ancient times, Pharaohs would order their loyal subjects to adorn the pyramids with ornaments and writings, kings would demand a few golden cups be laden out in on their gigantic dining table, and emperors would require huge scrolls of writings on their stylishly-built houses. Indeed, up to this very day, art has been one of the most fascinating things that humans have set their eyes upon. For the Pharaohs, kings, and emperors of your life (simply put, your loved ones), why not create something very creative and presentable this Christmas season. There are thousands of artsy gifts you may give that wouldn’t break your bank account. You have your paper mache sculptures, your homemade greeting cards, your folding doll houses, etc. And all that you need for these art projects would be a few pieces of paper, glue, and scissors. Add a touch of color, if you may. Paint the paper mache sculpture to your heart’s content, combine a blend of light colors for a much cheerful item. Go crazy with the smiley faces and emoji designs if you think your loved ones would have a laugh in the ev nnd. Or even paint a few stars, flowers, and hand prints if they prefer a much ordinary layout. If paint isn’t really your thing but still prefer to add color to your item then at least try using one of those glitter glues. They come in different colors, red, blue, yellow, green, your usual color wheel content. Just spread a few on the surface of your art project, and then let it settle for about twenty to thirty minutes. Set it in front of an electric fan if you want to speed up the drying process. It would have a glossy surface, littered with glitters of different colors

2.) Don’t mind the brand, mind the quality.

Well-known brands will always be costlier than those which are lesser known. The common belief is that, the more expensive they are, the higher their quality and durability is. Of course, that’s mostly true as their manufacturing machines are top grade and would produce nothing less of a perfect product. Millions are spent on their manufacturing machines, so understandably, the result should be as durable as any other tough material in the world, may it be clothes, shoes, bags, etc. Now, if that’s the case for well-known brands, how about those which names are almost unrecognizable in the market? Well, there are a few items sold in your local stores which are categorized to be substandard, apparels or items which would not last a whole year or two. Perhaps they are very much identifiable according to their country of origin (you know what we’re referring to). But the thing is, not all unfamiliar brands are included in this category of substandard items. Some lesser-known brands are top notch, durable, and would give well-known brands a run for their money. Aside from that, they are also very affordable. Unfamiliar as they are, brands which are of high quality yet cheaper are worthy of your attention. The thing is, why buy an expensive item which can break your budget, if you can buy two or three of those same items for a much lower price. Quality is always better than quantity, of course, but if you are given the opportunity to attain both then much as well grab it.

3.) Pre-loved items are always a go-to alternatives.

Do you have an item at home which is still in mint condition, yet, mostly unused? There are a couple of times in which our loved ones would have the same idea, with regards to our favorites and interest, and then they’d gift us with the same item, twice. You may use one of them, but completely ignore the other. In such case, why clutter your home with multiple items if you can just give them to your loved ones. May it be a toaster, a powerbank, a mini fan, or even a Bluetooth speaker, these items may accumulate overtime as they are some of the most common choices of holiday gifts, and the people giving you gifts may have the same idea after all. Of course, you still have to be careful when giving pre-loved items, as you may forget the vital detail of the recipient being the one who actually gave you the pre-loved item in the first place.

Take note that these are just a few tips to get ahead of the game, in terms of affordable gifting ideas this Yuletide season, and you may encounter more valuable tips along the way. The thing is, no matter how much you limit your budget, things may still end up getting short, and you’d have to look for financials elsewhere. Take it from us, borrowing cash from other people is no joke. Perhaps you are much safer pawning off a few items in exchange for cash. A high appraisal would at least guaranty you a fair return, providing that well needed cash for buying affordable gifts and Christmas treats.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most secure, reliable, and honest service and highest appraisal possible. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With their Pawning Service you can never go short in any amount, as they accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its more than 2,500branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Having a new member in the family would be one of the most glorious things to ever happen within the household. A new baby marks the arrival of a new blessing that should further solidify the relationship and strength of the family itself. With that being said, everything should be in place, the adjustments that goes along with it, the preparation of an extra space for the newborn, and the budget that would fill in that new void as a result of the newest member. While many of these can be accomplished with enough effort, it is understandable that there may be struggles in terms of the financials. Setting up a new space for the baby is simple enough, like rearranging the furniture, assembling the crib, and placing the other child care items within the designated baby room. In terms of the emotional adjustment, there would not be much of an issue, as both the parents and the baby’s siblings may have already been anticipating the arrival of a newborn, hence, everyone is emotionally and psychologically ready for a new member of the family. We’re not saying that it’s a very easy adjustment, it’s just that it may go much smoother if everyone’s already “up to the job.” As for the financials, the earnings of both the parents are something that may not be adjusted to increase in just a snap of a finger. Monthly income isn’t determined by the addition of a new family member, after all. It is plotted out by contract and by decision of the company’s higher management, which is why the adjustment should come from the household instead.

There are various ways to increase one’s earnings as the provider of the household, and these are what we may call as investments. There are lots and lots of investment opportunities out there which parents and other members of the family may participate in. The thing is, doubling the monthly income is a hard task, but definitely doable and manageable with proper teamwork. Luckily for you, you have your whole family to support you with such opportunities. Here are just a few examples to get you started:

1.) A Sari-Sari Store

Businesses are a great investment in the long run, and nothing brings out a more Filipino-like business better than a sari-sari store. Remember when we said that doubling your income would be a team effort? Well, having a business is no “walk in the park.” You need a helping hand, and you need your family to take over your store while you and your spouse are at your day jobs. Your teenage kids may watch over the store and tend to buyers after school. They may even report the whole day’s income after you come home from work. It’s also a good practice for the kids and teenagers to interact with buyers at an early age, as it helps develop their social skills. But that’s not all, being in charge of the store while you’re away would help orient them with the ins and outs of a business venture, no matter how small it is. A sari-sari store may not seem much, but it would add more funds for your daily expenses. A baby would need a continuous supply of milk and diapers, and your daily earnings in your small store would be beneficial for those expenses.

2.) Online Buy & Sell

With the introduction of online selling apps, you are now presented with the opportunity to run a business at the comfort of your home. If you do not feel comfortable about your kids running a small store, at least with online buy and sells, your privacies would be much better protected, with many apps taking on more secure features for their online sellers. Your options are limitless when it comes to online selling, many would sell clothes and apparels, there are some who sell tumblers and lunch boxes, there are those who would sell powerbanks and USB drives, indeed, you wouldn’t run out of options. You may have to register first before you can begin to sell, as with other social media sites, nonetheless, it is much simpler to sell online than to set up shop like a sari-sari store, which in turn would require you to spend more, especially as you’d need to construct the store itself, with expenses coming from construction materials and handy work.

3.) Buying a Car

Out of all the things mentioned in this list, we’re sure that you may find this part seemingly counterproductive. It’s very understandable, as we’ve mentioned in the earlier part that the purpose of having an investment is for you to double the family’s income. Buying a car doesn’t only seem expensive at the point if purchase, but also very costly in maintenance. But let us put this into perspective, there are sources of income nowadays which requires a car, and those livelihoods are somewhat the “in-thing” when it comes to earning a fair amount in no time. Aside from apps which functions for online selling, there are also apps which are coordinated with a car. They are known as TNVS and are the modern Taxis of today. With a simple click of an app, a passenger may request for a ride, whether their destination is a few minutes or a few hours away. The driver (who is the recipient of the ride request) would simply indicate the fare price. If both the driver and the passenger were to agree on the conditions (price and destination), the passenger would be picked up, thus, beginning the whole transaction. It may all seem simple enough, but such can produce a regular income that the whole family, including the newest member, would appreciate, especially as everyone travels. There are students and employees traveling towards their daily destinations, and the need for transportation arises, mostly for those places where a regular bus or jeep doesn’t go to because of differing routes.

With all of these suggested investments, you may be looking for a service that would protect the fruit of all your labors, a service that you can trust with your financials, a service that values the love that you have for your family, especially its newest member. Well, no need to look further than Cebuana Lhuiller’s ProtectMAX, a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old, featuring Death Benefit, Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance, Accidental Dismemberment and/or Disablement, Murder and Unprovoked Assault and Residential Fire Reconstruction cash assistance. For as low as P50, each certificate is valid for four (4) months from the date of issuance and can be availed up to a maximum of 5 certificates per insured.

Simply put, just think of all the insurances you’ve heard of before, and then raise them into a higher level, that’s what ProtectMAX is. You are better off investing in this particular Microinsurance, especially if your main priority is attaining an insurance that’s affordable and worth your hard-earned money. You may ask, “Well, that sounds great! But is my family qualified for this?” The definite answer is yes! The following are qualified beneficiaries for ProtectMAX:

Qualified beneficiaries:

• Legal Spouse
• Child of legal age (18 years old)
• Parents – Mother/Father
• Siblings – of legal age and single; married

So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

This Holiday season, there are too many discounts and temptations to run away from. You have your shopping malls, your local stores, your grocery savers, and your online shopping apps. All of them are relying on your decision to spend your 13th month pay, but you should not forget that you also have other expenses, even after the Christmas season ends, hence, why you should have a definite amount of self-control. Many are distracted by the whole festivities to notice that the shopping expenses can stack up, leaving you with little to no amount by the start of the New Year. Pinoys aren’t even particularly careful during this season, as they believe that this is the “season of giving,” and there’s nothing wrong about giving right? Well, that particular belief has been misused from time to time, and this is no different than those other situations.

If you think we’re just over exaggerating on the spending habits of Pinoys during the holidays, then why not take a peek into this data taken from 2017:

• “Among respondents participating in the data gathering, 55% indicated that December is the heaviest shopping month, with November coming in second at 24%. Only 5% of respondents said they shop in either September or October.”
• “Among respondents participating in the data gathering, only 35% of respondents said they own a credit card, while 48% still do not own a debit card.” This data alone indicates that a majority of holiday shoppers pay with their cash, and definitely, no other resource is more used than their 13^th month pay.
• “Many of the respondents prefer clothes over other material items.” Of course, we are not ignoring those who prefer to receive or purchase electronics, but still, clothes and apparels are the most must-buys during the holidays. You have the influence of social media personalities to thank for that. Whatever they are wearing, that’s the “in-thing” nowadays.

With all of these in mind, you may be wondering how you can best save money during the holidays. You are faced with temptations, faced with countless discounts and price drops, faced with bundle packs and deals. Well, look no further than our money savings tips for the Yuletide season:

1.)Make a strict budget out of your 13^th month pay/Christmas bonus

No means no and yes means yes. Self-control begins with setting boundaries, the same goes for your budget. Perhaps, you may set aside one-third of your bonus for gifts and holiday expenses, and then set aside the rest for your savings and expenses after the holidays. You can also do the reverse, where one-third is kept in your bank account while two-thirds are utilized for the holidays. It may be tough to avoid temptations during the holidays, but remember, you should spend all of your resources in one go. Many businesses and individuals found themselves at the bottom of a deep mound of debt due to lack of proper financial management. Speaking of temptations..

2.)Avoid dwelling too much into your social media accounts for the time being

You may try sticking to text messages, calls, and e-mails during the holidays. Nowadays, corporations and big brands are targeting their potential customers via customized ads online, and your social media accounts aren’t safe. Sellers spend a lot of money to roll out these customized ads in order to capitalize on spending habits, corporations are very much aware of this and would take advantage of everyone’s mutual bonuses to capitalize on their gains and revenues before the year ends. This leaves all the decision making to you, in terms of your purchases. Yes, there are temptations everywhere, yes, there are amazing deals as advertised on your screens, but these are mere marketing tactics to hook you into buying a brand’s products. A common joke nowadays is that people are drowning their sadness away through online shopping, an outlet which may turn into addiction if not monitored. It’s all funny for the time being, but it holds a certain reality at its core. People can fall victim to this outlet and be in debt at the end of every holiday season. Don’t be one of them.

3.)Be sure to track your spending

Many people spend their money without taking note of their expenses overall. You may find yourself buying a discounted item, and then be tempted to buy another, and another, until you are left with only a few centavos from your thousands of bonus pay. This is a result of two things; not planning your purchases ahead of time and not setting aside an amount from your holiday earnings. It may seem harmless at first, but remember that all bad things begin from those which do not pose a great threat at the first sight. If you go shopping for gifts, be sure to have a notepad with you. If you’re not comfortable carrying around a pen and paper, then at least use your cellphone’s calculator and note functionality to tally your expenditures. Begin by window shopping, take note of the prices, and decide which items and bundles would fit your budget. Be disciplined enough to set aside an amount in the first place and then choose to spend the rest. If you can, you may opt for cheaper alternatives, as not all expensive items are really of high quality, you’re mostly paying for the brand, after all.

4.)Choose homemade gifts instead

We’ve already said it and we’ll say it again, Pinoys love to honor the spirit of giving. There’s nothing wrong about being generous and mindful of your family, friends, and loved ones, but if it’s going to greatly affect your budget, then at least be creative enough to gift them with something affordable, yet, presentable. It could be a homemade figurines, food specialty, or any artsy craft. Remember, it’s the thought that counts.

With all of these in mind, you may be looking for a well-trusted name that would safely value the security of your hard-earned money. Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings, at its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, but doesn’t require a maintaining balance. You will only need 1 government ID and atleast P50 initial deposit, Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old are also qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier now!

Money remittance has always been parallel with an OFW’s main goal. The thing is, their families are depending on them back home, and what better way to provide than to send financial sustenance on a monthly basis. Believe it or not, there used to be a time in which the process of money remittance itself is scarce, to almost non-existent to many parts of the world. OFWs of the old age used to send money through envelopes, through snail mail, and you can probably guess how that went. There’s a reason why it was called snail mail, and indeed, it arrived later than usual, hence their families were always on the verge of deadlines and due dates. Nowadays, people have gone smart and instead chose to send money via a more practical and efficient way.

The rise of money remittance centers somewhat became synonymous with the stereotype of Filipinos being the hardworking heroes in foreign countries, perhaps the notion of being resilient amidst homesickness and loneliness gave off a very inspiring aura among Pinoys. The fact that we are regarded as such by foreigners as well would definitely say so much about this longstanding reputation, so much that pop culture and modern day marketing capitalized on this vividly, that we’d often see more of this via our local commercials and teleseryes. Talk about national identity and stereotyping in the media, this one takes the cake to a whole new level.

With that aside, you may be wondering how this came to be. How did we Filipinos end up being the very image of hardworking heroes? And how did we end up staying significantly parallel with the process of money remittance as well? To understand this whole concept, we should begin with the basics.

First of all, what is Money Remittance?

A quick online search gave this very specific definition about money remittance:

“A remittance refers to money that is sent or transferred to another party. The term is derived from the word remit, which means to send back. Remittances can be sent via a wire transfer, electronic payment system, mail, draft, or check. Remittances can be used for any type of payment including invoices or other obligations. But the term is typically used to refer to money sent to family members back in a person’s home country.”

Take note of the last sentence. The most common perception about money remittance is it is a way for foreign workers and expats to send financial assistance back at home. It doesn’t matter what country they are currently in, as long as the financial support is bigger than what their loved ones earn back at home on an average, it is considered a financial help or sustenance. Now, you may ask, what if the amount sent isn’t bigger than what their loved ones currently earn on an average? Well, there’s the fact that it invalidates the purpose of being an overseas worker in the first place. Knowing very well that they wouldn’t make much of a money when working abroad would simply tell them that leaving their country of origin wouldn’t make any difference at all.

How big is the contribution of Pinoys when it comes to Money Remittances?

If you think that the numbers are insignificant, think again. Here are a couple of data with regards to OFW’s remittance contributions to the country:

• As of late, there are more than 10 million Filipinos are living as expats—a sum equal to 10% of the country’s population.
• According to data gathered by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Philippines Central Bank, BSP) back in 2017, the Philippines was able to receive an inflow of USD$32,808 million, which translates to 10.5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
• If you’re wondering about the most preferred countries for Filipinos to work in, according to the BSP, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) support their families mainly from the United States (9.4 million), the United Arab Emirates (2.54 million) and Saudi Arabia (2.5 million). These choice of countries are evidently portrayed in local TV teleseryes most of the time. However, as time went by, the consensus shifted towards other choices such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

As you’ve noticed, a huge number of people definitely results to a much bigger return in finance. Take note that these numbers only represent data gathered from that very year, hence, there is a big chance that it may have gone up as the years went by. Do not be surprised if the numbers even doubled up, with a few more countries widening their doors towards Filipino workers in the past years alone, along with the support of the Philippine government continuously providing their assistance towards Filipinos who are hoping to make a living in the various parts of the world. Speaking of increase in numbers.

What is the most recent count, in terms of all OFW’s remittance in the past year alone?

Simply put, it was huge! According to another recent data gathered by the BSP:

“Cash sent home by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) surged to an all-time high in December 2018 and clocked in full-year growth that outpaced the central bank’s growth forecast even as it was the slowest annual increase on record. Cash remittances reached $2.849 billion that month, up 3.9% from the $2.741 billion inflows recorded in December 2017, spurring full-year inflows up 3.1% to $28.943 billion from 2017’s $28.060 a little past the BSP’s three-percent growth projection. That month’s (December) increase was the fastest since October 2018’s 8.7%. The increase in remittances was propelled by a 2.8% hike in the amounts sent by land-based OFWs, plus a 4.6% pickup in funds sent by those working at sea.”

Let us put into perspective that the cash flow was calculated in US Dollars ($), hence, if it was to be converted into Philippine Pesos (Php), the numbers would reach a very astounding amount. Indeed, it greatly contributes to the Philippine economy, along with the import, export, and businesses we have with other countries.

Is the level of money remittance affected by the ever-changing season?

That’s a good question that would be best answered by this particular statement from a sought after economist:

“December is the season for sending back money for loved ones in the Philippines,” says Chief Economist Mr. Carlo O. Asuncion. “Remittances usually peak towards December each year as OFWs send more money to support increased spending for festivities and gifts during the holidays.”

This is true, as according to BSP, “Household spending contributes about three-fifths of gross domestic product. The latest available Philippine Statistics Authority data show household final consumption expenditure growth slowing to 5.4% in 2018’s fourth quarter from the year-ago 6.2%, and full-year increase slowing to 5.6% in 2018 from 5.9% in 2017.”

While the Holidays is near, a lot of Filipinos send money and receives remittances. If you are sending or receiving remittances until November 2019, you can win in our Cebuana Lhuillier’s PADALAmazing Raffle Promo and Double Your Remittance Promo!

More info on these promos on this links:

https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/cebuana-padalamazing-raffle-promo-mechanics/

https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/double-your-remittance-promo/

Scams are everywhere. Not only are they limited to financial transactions, they’ve also entered the world of marketing, networking, and even after-sales. Scams may come in many forms, some you may have already heard of from your local evening news, while others are still under wraps, with assailants proving to be too much of a burden to the authorities. The thing about scams is that their effectivity and execution would rely on how less the victim knows. Those who are not knowledgeable about these modern modus operandi are more likely to be tricked by assailants. The same goes for people who are not cautious and vigilant in their everyday transactions.

There are already countless cases of scams around the world, and one major establishment isn’t safe from unscrupulous people either, namely, the pawnshop. You may not heard of it much, but yes, there are cases in which people fell victim to pawnshop scams before, perhaps banking scandals and the likes of “budol-budol” are more rampant, hence why they get reported more than these pawnshop escapades. Nonetheless, they exists, which is why you should be as vigilant as ever when undergoing a transaction inside a pawnshop. A few are just mere examples of cases from around the world, and the perfect opportunities and preparations you should undergo in order to avoid them.

The Proxy Method Scam

Ever had an item in your hand that you wanted to pawn off? Well, the most practical thing to do would be to visit your nearest pawnshop and to pawn them off straight away, right? Well, that’s the most straightforward way to do it, sure, you’d have to allot time and fare money in order to reach the pawnshop, but the return is always higher, especially if you’re going for a pawnshop with a high appraisal record. Now, there are those who, unfortunately, would rather take the easy way out. Some would be too lazy or reluctant to speak to the pawnshop authorities, so much that there are scammers who would offer to do the transaction for you, somewhat of a pawning proxy. The thing is, they would approach you, offer to pawn off your item, and promise to come back with the whole amount. They’d ask for a very small percentage in exchange for the service well done. This may seem convenient and wise at first, but remember, there is always a catch. Not only would these scammers cheat you out of your items with false promises, they would also run off with the amount. It’s as if you gave them permission to rob you, and you were very much in on the act as well. Avoid talking to people that you do not know outside the pawnshop branches and instead, transact with authorized pawnshop personnel.

The Fake Gold Scam

With this modus, not only are you the victim of the scam, but you’re the proxy to the crime as well. A news story from years ago reported that a man from the province was approached by people calling themselves as “treasure hunters.” He was then shown a huge chunk of gold, after which, he was told to find a buyer in exchange for a commission. The chunk of gold was drilled in front of him in order to prove that such an item was authentic. They gave him the gold, but asked a particular amount as a guaranty that he would return to them with the sale. Normally, a pawnshop would be the wisest choice to approach and transact with on this matter, so the man did exactly just that. But after reaching the pawnshop, the pawnbroker was able to test out the authenticity of the item, and it turns out that it was fake. It might have been a harmless transaction if it weren’t for two things: a) the victim gave a particular amount to the scammers as guaranty money, so he already lost a lot in this case. b) he could be sued as an accessory to the crime, as giving a fake item to the pawnshop is definitely against the law. It’s one thing to be scammed out of money, but it’s another to be used as an accessory to the crime. Don’t fall for this mess. Avoid interacting with people claiming to be the source of instant commissions and opportunities. If it’s too good to be true, well, it usually is.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most secure, reliable, and honest service and highest appraisal possible. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With their Pawning Service you can never go short in any amount, as they accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its 2,500branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Saving solves it all. As daunting as expenses can be, people can avoid going broke or running out of money by simply setting aside consistent amounts for their future. You may have heard of stories about people who had nothing at first, but then decided to save up after every payday and invested it on a wise financial choice, such as a business or a partnership venture, then went on to become one of today’s richest conglomerate. Stories such as these are a living proof that anyone can be successful with the right mindset and the ready-to-go attitude of rolling up their sleeves for a hard day’s worth of work.

Of course, while inspiring stories such as these may motivate many to save up wisely, there are still those who do not understand the fundamentals of saving, mainly due to the fact that product prices are at an all-time high, and that money saved would simply be “withdrawn” to sustain daily needs in the household. Admittedly, this has been the situation for quite a while, that is until an innovative financial process came along to even the playing field, the Cebuana LhuillierMicro Savings!

First of all, what is Micro Savings?

A quick online search gave the following definition – “It is a branch of microfinance, consisting of a small deposit account offered to lower-income families or individuals as an incentive to store funds for future use. Microsavings accounts work similar to a normal savings account, however, are designed around smaller amounts of money. There is no maintaining balance,allowing users to save small amounts of money and not be charged for the service.”

To put that into perspective, it’s very much like opening a savings account in your local bank, however, in a much more “affordable” and manageable scale. Micro Saving understands the situation of lower-income families or individuals, offering a much convenient solution when it comes to investing financially without a large risk at hand. No one wants to experience the never-ending cycle of getting your monthly wage, depositing it in the bank, then having to withdraw it again as your expenses wouldn’t allow your budget to cut corners. This new financial innovation breaks that particular cycle, thus, giving a majority of hard workers a much bigger chance of creating their success stories in life and for the future of their families.

How can it help in the long run?

It can help in a variety of ways, and the opportunities that Micro Savings can provide extends its reach to various members of the society, may it be an individual or a group. The following are a subset of categories by which Micro Savings can help out in the long run. Take note that these are just some of the many examples, and the reach that Micro Savings has is limitless, with the proper implementation and cooperation of the participating parties or individuals.

1.)For Retirees/Pensioners.

Our beloved senior citizens have spent their lives grinding away at work, carrying nothing but the hope of giving their sons, daughters, and even grandchildren a good life. Now that they are retired and hoping to be their own bosses, Micro Savings would at least help them out in realizing that dream into reality. Yes, they may receive a certain amount every month due to their pensioner status, but even that may not be enough to compensate for a business venture. Those who have applied for a Micro Savings in the earlier part of their careers may obviously reap the benefits during their retirement. If they were to combine the amounts that they’ve saved with Micro Savings and their upcoming monthly pensions, they would truly have enough for a venture late into their lifetime.

2.)For those who are Planning to Have a Business of their Own.

Remember when we said that those who have applied for a Micro Savings in the earlier part of their careers may obviously reap the benefits during their retirement? This is true, but why wait to reap the benefits until your retirement, if you can utilize them during the younger and mid-life stage of your life. Do you see the pattern now? The earlier that you acquire a Micro Savings account, the more that you’ll be able to save moving forward, hence, why starting out early is the key. In Cebuana Lhuillier, for example, Filipino citizens as young as seven (7) years old are qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account. If you were not to touch any of that until your adult years, just imagine how much you could have already saved by then. And we haven’t even started on the interest rates as well. Remember, as you save up along the way, the interest rate adds to that, Cebuana Lhuiller’s Interest Rate Per Annum is 0.30%, with a minimum balance of Php 500 to initiate the earning of interest.

So imagine if you were to start early and use that saved amount into your adult years of business planning, at least you’d have enough to start up a venture, with little (to even non-existent) margin of error, as you already have the appropriate amounts.

3.)For those who are Preparing for Emergencies.

According to data gathered back in 2018, on average, the Philippines would experience up to 20 typhoons per year. The amount of damage to property and livelihood is both devastating and limitless, which is why everyone should have the mindset of preparation when it comes to tackling these expenses. If you are one of the many who would set aside money for future emergencies, then we would urge you to try out Micro Savings, as not only is it a far more manageable way of saving, it would also be easier to withdraw, just in case your property procures damage during the ordeal. Remember, those who are always prepared comes out of the ordeal with less amounts of scratches, meaning that the financial blow caused by storms and typhoons wouldn’t be too bad in the long run.

Preparations aside, Micro Savings has its various perks and advantages. The financial outcome would simply depend on the manner in which a group or individual utilizes those returns. Speaking of perks and advantages, Cebuana Lhuillier has something for their avid Micro Saving patrons. Introducing, the Cebuana Lhuillier Ka-Cebuana Iponaryo Contest! Joining the promo is simple as 1-2-3. For more details, they may visit https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/ka-cebuana-iponaryo-contest/ or inquire through the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch.

Investments – there are countless resources that you can capitalize on in order to make a living, or even to double your profits. Like most activities which would involve hard work, you may need to invest time as well in order to make it work. Sure, there are a lot of things at risk when you’re investing resources at your disposal, with no guaranty of a huge return in the end, but that doesn’t mean that you should not take the risk. Remember, fortune favors the bold, and if it’s fortune that you’re seeking, then your options are limitless. In any case, you do not even need to look far if you’re to discover these investments within your reach, you have your time, money (savings), connections, and even your colleagues to help you out if you ever decide to invest towards a particular goal.

First of all, what is the very definition of “investment?”

The truth is, the definition may vary, depending on what you’re going to invest. It is “an asset or item acquired with the goal of generating income or appreciation. In an economic sense, an investment is the purchase of goods that are not consumed today but are used in the future to create wealth. In finance, an investment is a monetary asset purchased with the idea that the asset will provide income in the future or will later be sold at a higher price for a profit.” Take note that it usually concerns the outlay of some asset today, like time, money, effort, etc., in hopes of a greater payoff in the future than what was originally put in.

One of the main goals of investing is that you may double your profits in the end, a wise investment may either double or even triple your return, as long as you’d make wise decisions along the way. This is no different than reviewing for your exams back in high school. If you were to invest time reading your books, reviewing your notes and lessons, surely, the return would be a high, exemplary grade worthy of any proud parent’s attention. In business, the same principle applies, if you were to invest a reasonable amount while playing your cards right, your venture may bring in a high return of earnings at the ends of the day. Such are the very origins of many successful businesses today, with apps, gadgets, appliances, cars, and even furniture taking in the helm.

Risks in Investments

As with all things in life, there will always be risks. Counting on something to work without expecting the possible obstacles along the way would be an unwise thing to do, as being complacent in the long run would make you unprepared when something doesn’t go according to plan, and most of the time, especially when it comes to financial matters, they don’t go over smoothly.

All successful businessmen went through the very same rough patch that you may encounter along the way, hence, why you should lift your head up high and remember that there will always be solutions to every problem. Your financial investments aren’t safe from risks, but that doesn’t mean that you should give up at the first sign of trouble, you should instead take every lesson in stride and continue to march towards your goal, may it be doubling your returns or solidifying the legacy of your venture.

After all, all investments involve some degree of risk. In finance alone, there will always be a touch of uncertainty and/or potential financial loss inherent in an investment decision.  In general, as investment risks rise, investors seek higher returns to compensate themselves for taking such risks.

Major Risks that may affect your Investment

1.)Scams

Let’s face it, there will always be people out there who do not have our best intentions at heart. You may have heard stories of people falling victim to these scams, perpetrated when they least expect it or when they were not on their guard. Indeed, falling prey to scams would garner a huge financial lost, hence, why you shouldn’t always trust strangers who are offering an immediate increase in investment returns. Do not be fooled by modern day investment scams, read the newspaper, watch your evening news, learn about these scams via your social media apps. Victims are always willing to share their side of the story, learn from them and always remember the dos and don’ts of trusting other people.

2.)External Calamities

You’ve already set up your small venture (local store), invested your life savings on all of the needed materials and structure, and even spent a few on marketing your business, when all of a sudden, a huge typhoon ravages your community, costing a lot in damages, including your business. This is one of those situations in which investors (such as you) would have preferred to be robbed instead of being hit by the storm. At least if thieves were to take a few of your earnings, they wouldn’t have had destroyed the whole place in the process. The thing is, the Philippines is prone to storms and calamities. In the recent years, 20 typhoons were recorded to have landed in the country, and that is on a year to year basis. So aside from unscrupulous scammers, you have the weather to worry about as well. In such case, the best thing would be to insure your business, thus, lessening the cost and taking you a step beyond storm warnings.

3.)Constant Inflation

This has been a concern of many business moguls for quite a while now. The mere definition of a financial inflation is the general upward movement of prices.  Inflation reduces purchasing power, which is a risk for investors receiving a fixed rate of interest.  The principal concern for individuals investing in cash equivalents is that inflation will erode returns. That last part alone is enough to send chills down every investor’s spine. Again, preparing for such an unexpected event may ease up possible loses in the long run.

4.)General Business Risk

Some concerns may come from the very core of your business decisions. If you didn’t make a wise choice early on, it may come back to haunt you (financially). If that part doesn’t ring a bell, take this very specific example from one of our online searches:

“With a stock, you are purchasing a piece of ownership in a company.  With a bond, you are loaning money to a company.  Returns from both of these investments require that that the company stays in business. If a company goes bankrupt and its assets are liquidated, common stockholders are the last in line to share in the proceeds.  If there are assets, the company’s bondholders will be paid first, then holders of preferred stock.  If you are a common stockholder, you get whatever is left, which may be nothing.”

Indeed, every step you take in business is a vital one, so choose wisely.

You may be looking for a very reliable way to protect your investments. Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s MicroBiz Protect. It is a comprehensive Property Insurance with Personal Accident coverage, Comprehensive General Liability and AXA Assistance made specifically for micro enterprises. It covers the property and its contents against perils fire and/or lightning and other allied perils such as earthquake, typhoon, flood and others. It also covers MSMEs against burglary and robbery, accidental death, permanent disablement and accidental medical reimbursement. Fees for the micro-insurance policy covering up to 12 months can go as low as PHP540. Aside from that, it is also underwritten by AXA Philippines. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now for more information – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

More than 3,000 students and teachers of various schools nationwide have learned the value of saving money and opening a savings account through the Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings Iponaryo roadshows.

The students from Mantalongon National High School and Cawayan National High School in Cebu, Osmena Colleges in Masbate, St. Peters College in Iligan City, Davao City National High School, and University of Makati have also opened their own Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings accounts, to become the latest Iponaryo members of the almost two million-strong #KayaNa: Unbanked Filipinos No More movement.

Life is unpredictable. One day you’re out in the park, enjoying a family reunion while feeling that you’re on top of the world, and all of a sudden, something unexpected occurs. Most of the time, people are not aware of how things can change in a flash, calm becomes a storm and health is put in risk. In such case, a good investment is important to ensure that the future of your family would not go to waste. It is always better to be prepared than sorry, and Cebuana Lhuillier is here to help you accomplish just that.

Cebuana Lhuiller’s ProtectMax is a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old with Death Benefit, Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance, Accidental Dismemberment and/or Disablement, Murder and Unprovoked Assault and Residential Fire Reconstruction cash assistance. For as low as P50, each certificate is valid for four (4) months from the date of issuance and can be availed up to a maximum of 5 certificates per insured.

Simply put, just think of all the insurances you’ve heard of before, and then raise them into a higher level, that’s what ProtectMax is. You are better off investing in this particular Microinsurance than if your main priority is attaining an insurance that’s affordable and worth your hard-earned money. You may ask, “Well, that sounds great! But is my family qualified for this?” The definite answer is yes! The following are qualified beneficiaries for ProtectMax:

Qualified beneficiaries:

• Legal Spouse
• Child of legal age (18 years old)
• Parents – Mother/Father
•   Siblings – of legal age and single; married

What are the Premiums?

Just P50. Yes, you’ve read that right. For as low as P50, you may avail this amazing Microinsurance. More specifically:

Accidental Dismemberment and/or Disablement Php 20,000

Murder and Unprovoked Assault Php 5,000

Fire/Lightning Cash Assistance Php 5,000

Death Benefit (due to Sickness/Old age) Php 5,000

Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance Php 1,000

Now, just because the most affordable option is P50 doesn’t mean that you are limited to just that. Another premium is P250, by which, the coverage is much higher:

Definitely, you might be tempted to get a higher premium as well, with the coverages at least including most of your loved ones. But the inclusions, premiums, and coverages aren’t the only advantage to Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMax. The claiming process is as important and convenient as the other processes involved.

Processing of Claims:

1) In the event of a claim, the claimant shall submit the complete claim at any Cebuana Lhuillier branch nationwide.

2) Cebuana Lhuillier Branch Personnel shall review the completeness of all claim documents and submit to Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers, Inc. (CLIB) (depending on the type of claim) for claims evaluation and approval; the review shall be done in accordance with the guidelines of Pioneer Insurance and Surety Corporation (PISC).

3) CLIS will submit final advice, within 48 hours to the BP and claimant the status of the claim.

a. If a claim is approved, CLIB Head Office will pay the claimant in advance thru Pera Padala.

b.If the claim is Denied, CLIB Head Office shall send letter of denial to the claimant.

The Claim Requirements:

1) Accidental Death

a. Original Confirmation of Cover (COC)

b. Birth/Death Certificate (CTC)

c. Police Report/ Incident Report (Original)

d. Insured’s & Claimants Valid ID (with Photo and Signature)

e. Legal Supporting Document of claimant/beneficiary

2) Accidental Dismemberment, and/or Disablement

a. Photocopy of Confirmation of Cover (COC)

b. Police Report

c. Picture of Affected Body Part

d. Medical Certificate

e. Insured’s Valid ID (with Photo and Signature)

3) Murder and Unprovoked Assault

a. Original Confirmation of Cover (COC)

b. Death Certificate

c. Police Report

d. Insured’s & Claimants Valid ID (with Photo and Signature)

e. Legal Supporting Document of claimant/beneficiary

4) Fire/Lightning

a. Photocopy Confirmation of Cover (COC)

b. Picture(s) of burnt declared home address

c. Barangay Certificate

d. Insured Valid ID (with Photo, Signature, and Declared Address)

5) Death Benefit (Accidental or Sickness)

a. Original Confirmation of Cover (COC)

b. Birth/Death Certificate (CTC)

c. Police Report/ Incident Report (Original)

d. Insured’s & Claimants Valid ID (with Photo and Signature)

e. Legal Supporting Document of claimant/beneficiary

f. Medical Certificate

6) Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance

a. Photocopy Confirmation of Cover (COC)

b. Emergency Expense Benefit Claim Slip (bottom of COC)

c. Medical Certificate

d. Clinical Abstract

e. Insured’s Valid ID (with Photo and Signature)

After having a clear idea of the claim requirements, we know that you’re curious about the fine prints. The thing is, Cebuana Lhuillier doesn’t deal with fine prints, we are happy to serve and answer every detail that our customers may inquire about in the long run. To further clarify on the inclusions, we have to mention the exclusions as well:

Exclusions:

1. Planned or expected treatments.
2. Treatment or surgery for congenital anomalies.
3. Treatments related to HIV, STD’s, AIDS.
4. Claims caused by alcoholism and/or illegal drugs.
5. Self-inflicted injuries, suicide, attempted threats while sane or insane.
6. Treatment of mental and nervous disorders.
7. Long-term rehabilitation and psychiatric care.
8. Treatment for Obesity, weight reduction, or weight improvement.
9. Chiropractic care, acupuncture, alternative medicine or any experimental procedures.
10. Cosmetics, plastic surgery, dental care, eye and ear examinations.
11. Hazardous and dangerous sports or activities.
12. Any act that violates the law.
13. Murder, assault, brawl or any attempted threat.
14. Losses caused by escort or security service.
15. Voluntary taking of poison, gas, nuclear or radioactive materials.
16. Hostilities or warlike operations
17. Any act of terrorism.

While it may seem like a long and extensive lists, most of these are in accordance with the Philippine Law as well, with hostilities and violence being the main disqualifying factors for the microinsurance itself. Understandably, this is a universally accepted provision, to further prioritize the good, hardworking, citizens of the country. Cebuana Lhuillier has always been in support of the tough, motivated, and law-abiding citizens of the country who can’t afford those pricey insurance premiums, hence why ProtectMax was made specifically for them.

With the clear lists of requirements, you may very well be on your way to applying for ProtectMax. But if you’re still unsure about the other details, please feel free to visit any nearby Cebuana Lhuillier branch. Our staff would be more than happy to answer your questions regarding this brand new Microinsurance service.

Pawnshops are a rich part of Philippine history.  Believe it or not, it can be traced back at least 3,000 years to ancient China, and has been found in the earliest written histories of Greek and Roman civilizations. In 1462 the Franciscans set up the montes pietatis, which granted interest-free loans to the poor, though they were later forced to charge interest to prevent premature exhaustion of their funds. Some scholars say that the practice of pawning was introduced during the days of the Spaniards, when they would allow Chinese traders to enter the Philippine shores in order to conduct their business. This practice has then evolved into the pawning practices of today.

Due to the slow economic growth, Filipinos had turned into pawning more frequently than the usual. Is it any wonder that pawnshops continue to grow in numbers? The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said the number of pawnshops across the country reached 17,408. Of these, 6,279 are head offices while the remaining 11,129 are branches. Unsurprisingly, they outmatch and outnumber banks, as a matter of fact, they outnumber all other types of financial institutions regulated by the BSP, including universal and commercial banks, rural banks, and savings and loans associations. Talk about a booming business.

Pawning’s Wide Reach

Open your TV and you’re bound to see a commercial regarding pawnshops and its recent services, perhaps you’d be able to spot one or two within the day. In such case, it’s no wonder that pawnshops have entered Philippine pop culture as well, spearheaded by some of today’s sought after actors and actresses, it’s no wonder that the terrestrial reach of pawnshops have been wider than ever, and we haven’t even scratched the surface yet, as this only pertains to television slots, as the social media platforms of pawnshops are hard at work as well when it comes to making their presence felt.

By this, you can probably say that pawnshops no longer indicate a negative vibe whenever it is brought into discussion. There used to be a time when people would raise their eyebrows whenever they would hear of a neighbor or acquaintance pawning off their items. Nowadays, it is common knowledge that pawnshops provide nothing more than a chance for Filipinos to make ends meet. Of course, not everyone is well off, and as mentioned earlier, the Philippine economy has been stagnant, which is why it is very understandable for Filipinos to turn to pawnshops to hopefully get a fair amount.

How do Pawnshops Earn Their Money?

Well, pawnbrokers usually derive income primarily from two or three income streams:

• Interest and Service Charges on money lent

One pawnbroking website has provided an average percentage regarding this format. We would like to clarify, however, that these percentages may vary, as different pawnshops have different percentages in play:

“In comparison to commercial banks and other lending companies, they get their income from interest for every new loan of 1% to 2.5% monthly, and yet they are all liquid. So it is imperative to say that this financial institution earns at this interest rates, how much more for the Pawnshop business averaging a 5% monthly interest rate on every loan plus a collateral – to secure loan payment.”

• Profits on sale of unredeemed merchandise

Of course, there are times in which the person pawning off their items would not be able to regain it back to due to limited funds. In such case, it gets sold by the pawnshop. The following is a standardized format for this. Again, percentages may vary among pawnshops:

a) The income earned from this sale is from 70%-100% of mark up from the principal amount loaned out.

b) Mobile Phone units – 70% – 100% Mark up per unit for 60 days.

c) Gold Jewelries – 75% – 100% Mark up per item for 120 days.

• Profits from ancillary specialty services such as currency exchange, money order sales, and electronic load for mobile phones.

Take note of the phrase “ancillary specialty services.“ Of course, some modern pawnshops do not just deal in pawnbroking, nowadays, they offer various services which tend to the modern Filipino’s needs. Speaking of which..

The Modern Pawnshop: What does it have to offer?

Gone are the days in which pawnshops are solely about pawning off items in exchange for cash. Cebuana Lhuillier, for example, upped its ante and showed a clear evolution into their lineup of services. First established in 1988, it is one of the leading and largest non-bank financial services providers in the Philippines with 2,500 branches nationwide. Here are just a few of its current services:

1) Money Remittance:

Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pera Padala service is an easy, quick, and safe way to send and receive money within and outside the Philippines. With its wide network and client reach with over 1.5 million global touchpoints and 4,000 domestic partner outlets, Cebuana Lhuillier makes money remittance possible anywhere around the world.

2) Microinsurance:

One of Cebuana Lhuillier’s main services, Microinsurance products help Filipinos avail financial services that promise to minimize the impact of distress and misfortune should a disaster or unfavorable event occur. They actually offer more than 20 unique and tailor-fit insurance products, which include but are not limited to TodaCARE, StudentCARE, EmployeeCARE, SecurityCARE, and AutoCARE.

3) Micro Savings:

Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines (except for the fact that it is much convenient and accessible than banks) and doesn’t require a maintaining balance. Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old are even qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account.

A Keen Observation:

Perhaps the biggest question is, why do Filipinos tend to look towards pawnshops first than other means of financial support? After all, Filipinos can just easily loan from other institutions or borrow money from their neighbors. Well, the following reasons may very explain this in detail:

1) Accessibility

Pawnshops are all about smooth business flow and transactions. Unlike loaning companies, pawnbrokers take pride in providing a good service and fair appraisal.

2) Strictly Business

Borrowing from people you know, such as relatives, neighbors, workmates, etc. may breed some personal animosity when it comes to financials, especially as everyone would like to protect their savings, hence, why people are more comfortable dealing with pawnbrokers, because it’s all business. Nothing more, nothing less.

3) No Credit Investigations

Lending companies tend to overdo their investigations most of the time. People do not want to be bothered with questions when they’re desperate for cash, hence, why people prefer pawnshops, not because they’re less strict, but rather, they’re efficiently faster when processing financial matters. No need for additional checks or restrictions.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most honest service and highest appraisal possible. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With their Pawning Service you can never go short in any amount, as they accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its more than  2,500 branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Financial scams – they are everywhere! Banking has been a part of people’s lives since 2000 BC, making its presence known in Assyria, India and Sumeria. Nowadays, banking itself has become somewhat of a lifestyle phenomenon, which has taken over a minimal, yet very vital part of everyone’s daily routines. While there may be checks and balances put into place to ensure that all bank accounts are kept safe and well-taken care of, there are still some who are proficient enough in breaking such benchmarks in order to take advantage of innocent people. Scammers are evolving every day, adjusting to the efficiency of bank securities and policies, in the hopes of luring unsuspecting victims to their modus operandi.

According to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), which is the central bank of the Republic of the Philippines, in its 2017 Financial Inclusion Survey (FIS), the central bank announced that only an estimated 15.8 million adult Filipinos, or 22.6 percent, have bank accounts, while an approximate 52.8 million, or 77.4 percent, remain unbanked. 11.5 percent of them are in the formal banking sector, around 8.1 percent are in non-government microfinance organizations, 2.9 percent are in cooperatives, and 0.3 percent are in non-stock savings and loan associations. Only 1.3 percent of adults have electronic (e-money) accounts. The survey took into account how one person may have several accounts on different platforms.

Now, with all of those numbers in mind, just imagine how much a scammer would take home in tow after a successful scam. The numbers would reach into the thousands, making it somewhat of an amazing feat, albeit a very illegal one. In such case, it is the responsibility of each individual to always be vigilant during their transactions, to always stay alert and be one step ahead of scammers all the time. Only through proper care and precautions would we be able to beat these wrongdoers, and beat them we shall. But in order to do that, we should first identify their strategies, their targets, and possibly their motives. Here are a few examples of banking scams and how we may best avoid falling victim to them:

1)Bank Transfer Scams

You may describe this as a modern take on the old switcheroo trick, varying in examples, yet equally clever and risky to fall victim to. Here are its types:

a) Phone Bank Transfer Scam

Simply put, the scammer will try to get you to transfer money out of your account. According to a website which deals in banking security:

“The way this works is that you’ll get a phone call from someone claiming to be from your bank, alerting you to a problem within your account. This will normally be something security related, such as telling you someone is accessing your account illegally, or has stolen your identity. Their solution will be to ask you to transfer all the money into a ‘safe account’ until the problem is solved. The problem is, nobody is trying to access your account and you’re transferring money directly to the scammers. The money is then transferred very quickly to other accounts around the world.”

b) Internet Bank Transfer Scam

Nowadays, this known as phishing. Through suspicious e-mails, perpetrators may install spyware on your computer to steal your information.

“Others might try to take control of your computer remotely, by telling you there is an issue with your internet connection or you have a virus. Another tactic is to tell you you’re due a refund or compensation, but you’ve been sent too much. You’ll then be asked to transfer back the difference.”

How do you avoid them?

Here’s the thing, banks will never ask for your personal information, either through phone or through e-mails. Of course, over the counter transactions are way different when it comes to this policy, but that’s exactly the point, bank personnel will ask for your information “face-to-face” for verifications purposes, unlike scammers who would prefer to ask for your private information while being anonymous.

Aside from this, banks will never, ever ask for your PIN. That is one of the most crucial information a client may have, hence why it should be kept secret and safe at all times. You should hang up the phone or delete suspicious looking e-mails, overall.

2) Bank Card Scams

This modus operandi involves the scammers getting a hold of your card. They do not even need to keep it for a long time, card skimming or the process of copying your card details is common nowadays, especially for those who are always using their cards to pay for everything.

a) Through Direct Contact with the Card

One thing’s for sure, the most common way to get your card details is when you’re shopping online. There are unsecured websites which only say http rather than https in their website address, which can be attacked and filled with spyware, thus infecting your computer, so scammers can see everything you’re doing online.

Sometimes, crooks will even go as far as to steal your credit or debit cards while they’re in their envelopes. You will then get a phone call from the person with your card asking you to confirm a few details which allows them to start using it. By the time you realize what’s happened, your account could have been emptied, or your credit card maxed out.

b) By Skimming the Card

Scammers will sometimes use ATM and cash machines to clone your bank card so they can use it to steal your identity. A skimming device is also used in this, being attached to the card slot of ATMs, on other instances, they’ll just install miniature cameras attached so they can see your card number and PIN. One major workaround is to cover the keypad whenever you enter your PIN.

How do you avoid them?

First of all, never open or answer suspicious-looking e-mails. There are always red flags, but you’re sure to spot them all in one go. Immediately delete these kinds of e-mails. You should also update your antivirus, just to make sure that no phishing software or malware would get in your PC. You may also avoid visiting websites which only have http in the address rather than https. You should also prevent using public Wi-Fi in coffee shops or shopping malls to shop online or use online in banking.

Red Flags within a Strange E-mail

Remember when we said scammers can use e-mails to trick you into providing them with your information? If you’re still unsure of what to look out for, here are a few major examples:

• It instructs you to click a link in the message and to log in using your online banking details.
• It has a very generic composition. First, what do they call you? Scammers will generally use a generic welcome, such as Dear Sir/ Madam or valued customer. Real emails will address you by your name.
• Look out for the e-mail address. Emails from scammers will come from an address which is either just a series of letters and numbers, or have a spelling mistake.

Now that you know what to lookout for, always remember to approach your local bank and its trusted personnel if ever you were to receive such suspicious e-mails or worse, have already fallen victim to one of the mentioned scams. Remember, being vigilant and alert is the key to beating these scammers to the punch. Be always ten steps ahead of them.

With all of that being said, you’re probably looking to open a bank account with a name and service that you can trust. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuiller’s Micro Savings! Initially offered in our Rural Bank branches, it is now available through our entire Cebuana Lhuillier branch networks. Simply put, you can use your 24K Plus and 4C Cards at any of our Cebuana Lhuillier Pawnshop and Bank Branches in order to withdraw your savings. With a minimum deposit amount of only P50 and no minimum maintaining balance, it’s incredibly easy to apply for one. You can even check your savings amount via our SMS service, reliable and ready to serve you 24/7. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Save atleast P500 and get a chance to win P5,000 on our #KaCebuanaIponaryo challenge more info at https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/ka-cebuana-iponaryo-contest/, this is open to all Micro Savings account holders.

Taking care of kids at early age may be stressful for a parent, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences ever. You may scold them, discipline them, teach them what’s right and wrong, but at the end of the day, they will always be the cuddliest part of the household. Playtime, meal time, storytelling hour, all of these would be an enjoyable activity with your kids, however, you should not forget one of the most important lessons you may teach them at an early age, financial management. It is common knowledge by now (even to first time parents) that the best time to teach kids something very important is from an early age. There are various studies proving this theory, most notably:

“Some evidence suggests that young children do have episodic memories of their infancy but lose them later. A six-year-old, for instance, can remember events from before her first birthday, but by adolescence, she has probably forgotten that celebration. In other words, young children can likely make long-term-like memories, but these memories typically fade after a certain age or stage of brain development. Memories made in later childhood and beyond are more likely to stick because the young brain, especially the hippocampus and the frontoparietal regions, undergoes important developmental changes that improve our ability to bind, store and recall events.”

Now, do not be discouraged by one of the mentioned facts above, that toddlers tend to forget information somewhere past adolescence, the thing is, a lesson that is taught over and over again has a higher chance of being retained in the long run, due to the fact that repetitive information can overcome the fading memory of youngsters when continuously fed to them on a daily basis. Any important lesson in life is as important as being taught to your kids at an early age, but out of all the vital things, the way they should handle their finances should be one of them.

The Candy Parable

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should allow your toddlers to hold a huge amount of cash at a very early age, but rather, teach them the main concept of saving, handling, and managing limited resources such as money. You may start out, not by coins, but by candies. Younger kids tend to learn more if you were to interpret the lesson via something that they can definitely relate with. Using a candy would not only catch their attention, it would also retain it. Start out by giving them one or two candies, and then, tell them that it would be the only candy that they’ll be given for the whole week, and that they should “budget” how they’re going to consume it. Let them know that they can’t eat the whole lot within the day, otherwise, they wouldn’t be given any further pieces anymore.

Now, you may be wondering, “Even if I were to teach my kids consistently, how can I be sure that they’ll be able to retain those lessons while growing up?” Well, the thing about teaching your kids how to manage their resources while growing up is that it isn’t merely a vocal lesson about how to do things the right way, it’s also about experiencing the lesson itself. Case in point, the candy parable. Further evidence on toddler memory studies states that:

“For parents who worry that their toddler will not remember their special early years together, a memory is essentially a unit of experience, and every experience shapes the brain in meaningful ways. Specific memories may be forgotten, but because those memories form the fabric of our identities, knowledge and experiences, they are never truly or completely gone.”

Think of it as a way of schooling them, but instead of having a seat down class, this would be more of a practical activity.

What’s the point of teaching them at an early age?

Teaching them about the value of money and the hard work done behind the scenes to acquire them would mold their outlook towards their future as whole. This doesn’t mean that you’ll open their eyes towards the luxuries that money can buy, no, as a matter of fact, it’s the opposite. It’s all about the basic needs that money would be able to purchase, and that overspending would actually put people in more trouble that they can handle. Let them know of a human being’s basic needs. According to American Psychologist, Abraham Maslow, we all have five of them:

1. Physiological needs – these are biological requirements for human survival, e.g. air, food, drink, shelter, clothing, warmth, sex, sleep.
2. Safety needs – protection from elements, security, order, law, stability, freedom from fear.
3. Love and belongingness needs – after physiological and safety needs have been fulfilled, the third level of human needs is social and involves feelings of belongingness. The need for interpersonal relationships motivates behavior
4. Esteem needs – which Maslow classified into two categories: (i) esteem for oneself (dignity, achievement, mastery, and independence) and (ii) the desire for reputation or respect from others (e.g., status, prestige).
5. Self-actualization needs – realizing personal potential, self-fulfillment, seeking personal growth and peak experiences. A desire “to become everything one is capable of becoming” (Maslow, 1987, p. 64).

Notice that three out of five can be attainable with the help of family, friends, and loved ones, so we will not focus on that. Instead, we will go back to the topic at hand, proper financial management. Both the first and second factors are attainable with cash in tow. The very first need is what basic needs are in general, food, drink, shelter, clothing, etc. Even if you were to attain the four other needs, if you do not have access to the first few ones, then you would definitely not survive.

As children grow, they will realize more about the lessons that they’ve learned at an early age, the things that you’ve taught them. And while you’re orienting them, let them know that they may encounter mistakes along the way, but learning doesn’t really stop when they do, a mistake is just the starting point for a new lesson.

Banking at an Early Age

The thing about learning is that, it doesn’t always have to be boring. Many parents role play with their kids in order to have both quality time and family time. Role play the setting of a bank, for example. Let them know of the various scenarios involved whenever a person saves (or even overspends). Show them through role play the cons and pros of managing their money for the future. Better yet, when they’re already age seven (7), feel free to apply them for a “junior account.” Here is something we may recommend, none other than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings service. It aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines and doesn’t require a maintaining balance.

Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old are even qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account. They can open a Micro Savings account with the help of their parent/guardian as they need to provide a valid ID together with the child’s student ID.

Pawnshops are very convenient and practical. Just think about it, nowhere can you undergo a transaction which doesn’t even last for ten minutes. They are basically the quickest way to earn cash, especially when you’re in need. Aside from that, they are a major part of Filipino culture. TV commercials aside, pawnshops are rooted in the Filipino system since the time of the Spaniards, when they allowed the Chinese to sail the Philippine shores in order to do their trades. This has been a long running business model in the Philippines, much so that the number of branches that pawnshops have in the country now outnumber banks. So regardless of area, social stature, and occupation, Filipinos will always approach a pawnshop as a first resort.

Of course, not many pawnshop clienteles have expensive items to pawn off, it’s just that they manage to come up with valid items that qualify according to the pawnshop’s standards. With that in mind, it is understandable that many are still unaware of the exact lists of items which can be pawned off. Not everyone has financial concerns, after all, so some haven’t even been in a pawnshop before. No worries, as we have listed the correct items which can count towards you having extra cash by the end of the day:

1. Gold
   Gold is one of the most common items to be pawned off. Of course, the pawnbroker has to double check its authenticity. Not everything that glitters is gold, after all. But once proven that an item is indeed gold, the broker would come up with the price appropriately reflecting the condition, quality, and authenticity of the item. Be sure to declare whether an item is full gold or gold-plated, as those are also two separate things. Just be honest about the condition of the item and answer the pawnbroker’s questions about the item as well. Who knows, you might get a great deal in the process.
2. Diamond
   According to a famous song, they are timeless, they are indestructible, they are “forever.” Yes, diamonds may be one of the strongest and fanciest jewels to date, but the same process of evaluation for a fair appraisal is basically the same as that of gold items. It would all depend on the quality and authenticity of the item, though there would even be lesser things to worry about if your diamond is authentic, due to the fact that it can only be scratched by other diamonds. They can also be polished well, which is why you wouldn’t have a hard time cleaning them up if you ever decide to pawn them off.
3. Platinum
   There is a reason why it is heralded as the “king of the metals.” It is 15 times rarer than gold. As a matter of fact, is the only precious metal used in fine jewelry design that is up to 95% pure, making it the purest metal of them all (gold is only 75%). But do not let its purity fool you, it’s definitely a tough metal, so if ever you’re going to pawn off one, even in spite of over usage, your jewels would still look great in quality.
4. Cellphones
   Smartphones are a staple of pawnshops as well. Accordingly, only a few types and models of cellphones are accepted, depending on the standard of the pawnshop itself. Nonetheless, they are a welcome addition to the already huge plethora of items you may pawn off. Take note that just like any other items, the quality will come into play. Also be reminded that this falls under the category of gadgets, so they should be in great working condition when pawned off. Much better if you were to pawn off a smartphone while still in mint condition. They have a higher appraisal.
5. Laptops
   Much like cellphones, laptops which are pawned off while still in high quality and mint condition are prone to a higher appraisal. Of course, the more branded they are, the better. Be sure that the battery and charger is still intact and fully-functioning.

Take note that these are just the basic items you can typically pawn off, depending on the pawnshop, other items may still be qualified for a good appraisal. Feel free to ask your local pawnshop for more details.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, we should look at the technicalities when it comes to pawning off your items. Aside from the usual verification process, you may also need to present one or two of the following:

• Passport; including those issued by foreign governments
• Driver’s License
• Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
• National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
• Police Clearance
• Postal ID
• Voter’s ID
• Barangay Certification
• Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) e- Card
• Social Security System (SSS) Card
• Senior Citizen Card
• Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID
• OFW ID
• Seaman’s Book
• Alien Certification of Registration/ Immigrant Certificate of Registration
• Government Office and GOCC ID, e.g., Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP ID), Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF ID)
• Certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
• Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID
• Company IDs issued by private entities or institutions registered with or supervised or regulated either by the BSP, SEC or IC
• Passports issued by foreign government

A Well-Rounded Pawnshop That’s Always Ready to Serve

If you would ask, “What would you recommend? Is there any pawnshop that can guaranty a balance of good service and high appraisal?” As a matter of fact, yes, there is. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier, a leader in the pawning industry. Cebuana Lhuillier offers up to 35% higher appraisal rate compared to other pawnshops in its 2,500branches nationwide. The company’s business has evolved with the needs of the Filipino people by accepting an array of valuable items—from jewelry to gadgets—in exchange for a fair loan amount.

With every competing pawnshop in existence, each one has their own set of transactions and processes to follow. But for Cebuana Lhuillier, a simplified transaction will always make it stand out from the rest:

• Visit any Cebuana Lhuillier Pawnshop branch and present the item to be pawned.
• Accomplish the customer information sheet.
• Present a valid I.D. (see list below)
• Let the appraiser assess the value of your item. Advise the branch personnel if you agree with the appraised value and net proceeds.
• Sign the Prenda card and the pouch containing your item to ensure its authenticity and safety for when you get it back.
• Count the money received and secure the pawn ticket, which is required to be presented during renewal or redemption of the pawned item.

Cebuana Lhuillier also assures the highest appraisal and security for pawned items. Advance interest will be charged Php4 for every Php100 loan amount. To maintain the excellent standard of service offered by Cebuana Lhuillier, clients are charged five pesos  (Php 5) service fee, no other hidden charges will be deducted from the loan, whatsoever.

For any further clarifications or inquiries, please feel free to visit any  of our nearest branch. Our staff would be more than happy to answer your questions and feedback.

Have you ever imagined a world in which everything was much easier to accomplish? Have you imagined a world where complicated tasks are far simpler to process than usual? Somehow, this dream was made possible by three important factors: technology, reforms, and workarounds.

The same thing can be said about your applications – government benefits application, job application (verifications and references), and bank account application. While the first two are understandably slow-paced due to the insurmountable number of people submitting their applications at the same time, the third one doesn’t necessarily have to suffer the same fate. After all, it isn’t the number of people that affects the process the most, rather, the meticulous nature of banks when it comes to the requirements. Think of it this way, while the number of pre-requisites may be small, the matter in which they are required definitely impacts an applicant’s chances of acquiring one. The typical requirements for a normal bank account are:

1. a) The minimum initial deposit
2. b) Two valid IDs
3. c) Two copies of your most recent 1×1 ID picture
4. d) Proof of billing

Seems easy right? Well, here’s the thing, some banks would require a high amount when it comes to their “minimum” deposit. Aside from that, your proof of billing may not turn out to be valid, especially if you’re renting. The owner name would point towards your landlord, and not your very own. These simple technicalities may be an obstacle between you and your ultimate goal of opening a typical savings account.

Now, there are those who live out their lives thinking that a savings account isn’t really a major necessity, that it is something they can set aside for the sake of practicality. Consider these particular statistics, in its 2017 Financial Inclusion Survey (FIS), the national central bank announced that only an estimated 15.8 million adult Filipinos, or 22.6 percent, have bank accounts, while an approximate 52.8 million, or 77.4 percent, remain unbanked. While it may seem like a harmless amount of people being able to live with no bank account at all, take note of the actual hassles they may have to go through each and every day. Case in point, the following scenarios:

1. Having no savings account of your own means you have no safe place to keep your money.
   The thing about having a savings account is that you’ll at least be able to keep your hard-earned money secured. Just think about it, even if you have a sturdy metallic safe back at home, chances are, you still wouldn’t have a peace of mind, knowing that thieves are always on the loose. Aside from that, your home isn’t exactly the wisest option when it comes to safekeeping. Whatever happens to your home, the money would go down with it. Fire, flood, earthquake, etc. By keeping your cash stacked at home, you’re putting all of your hard-earned cash
2. Having no savings account of your own would make it quite difficult to retrieve your cash.One of the main perks of having a savings account is that you’ll at least be provided with an ATM card. With that, you’d be able to withdraw any amount from your account without much of a hassle (considering that there’s an available ATM machine nearby). If you have no savings account of your own, just think about how difficult it would be to retrieve your very own money. Even if you decide to keep it safe at home, you’d need to go back and forth just to acquire a small amount off your savings.
3. Having no savings account of your own would prevent you from experiencing any potential investment opportunities.
   Depending on the bank type, opening up a savings account would actually entitle you to earn a small percentage from your deposits. Of course, when we say small, it usually involves just a few centavos of earnings, nonetheless, it accumulates and stacks up with your savings from time to time. Again, this would all depend on the bank and whether or not they implement this type of feature.
4. Having no savings account of your own may cause lack of documents or requirements in the future, as some non-banking transactions would require for you to have an account.
   This is evident in some government applications and loans, you have to get a savings account of your own as they would deposit your loan directly to the account itself. You also have to consider other crediting companies, as bank accounts usually help them understand the financial habits of people who are hoping to borrow money from them. In such case, your personal account may function as a major requirement in itself already, being a direct pre-requisites for other financial entities.
5. Having no savings account of your own may cause another hassle in itself, with no easy way to receive salaries and donations from relatives during times of need.
   It’s normal for people to communicate with their relatives during times of need. If you find yourself stuck in a similar situation, no worries, everyone has their moments. What would make this situation awkward, however, is the fact that money transfer isn’t going to be easy for you, especially if you do not have an account of your own. If your relatives or friends were to donate money for your cause, they may send it over your savings account, after which you may visit a nearby ATM machine to withdraw. For those without bank accounts, they may need to fall in line within a money remittance stall, endure a long wait time, and rummage through their ID collections just to acquire a few amounts.

   With all of that being said, there is definitely a need to open up a savings account, may it be for personal use or for externally checking a requirement list. The question is, is there a much convenient alternative to a bank? Is there a much better alternative to the usual savings account? Well, good news, both can be found at the same place and at the same time, none other than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings services.

   Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, with the huge difference of its requirements being way easier to accomplish. Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old are even qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account. You may visit any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches nationwide and fill-out the Client Customer Information File Sheet and bring the following:

   • Government issued ID
   • Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
   • Student ID (applicable only if student is currently enrolled)
   • P50 minimum initial deposit
   • P100 card fee (for clients w/o 24k card)

The list of accepted Government/Valid IDs are:

• Passport
• Driver’s License
• Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
• National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance
• Police Clearance
• Postal ID
• Voter’s ID
• Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) e-Card
• Social Security System (SSS) ID
• Senior Citizen’s ID
• Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID
• OFW ID
• Seaman’s Book
• Alien Certification of Registration (ACR)
• Barangay Certificate or ID (with picture and signature)
• Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
• Firearm License
• Immigrant Certificate of Registration
• Marriage License
• National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons
• New TIN ID
• OWWA ID
• Student ID
• Alien Certification of Registration (ACR) / Immigrant Certificate of Registration
• Government Office or Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCC) ID (e.g. AFP ID, HDMF (Pag-ibig Fund) ID, etc.
• Certification from the National Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (NCWDP)
• Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
• Integrated Bar of the Philippines ID (IBP)
• Company IDs issued by private entities or institutions registered with or supervised or regulated either by the BSP (Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas), SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) or IC (Insurance Commission)

So, what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now andopen a Micro Savings account, deposit atleast P500 get a chance to win P5,000 in our #KaCebuanaIponaryo challenge, more info on this link: https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/ka-cebuana-iponaryo-contest/

Most of the time, we Filipinos would choose to pawn off our valuable items instead of borrowing from our neighbors. Traditionally, the latter was a common option amongst people living within a single community, however, things began to change during the occurrence of countless pawnshops, featuring various appraisals that offered a much better deal. You may ask, “What changed? Why do the people go for pawnshops? And why is it a recurring choice nowadays?” All of these questions can be answered by the mere history of pawnshops in our country, its popularity in small towns, as well as the economic stature of the country itself. Buckle up, as we delve deep into the heart of this industrial dragon, an industry that has been etched into the history and culture of Filipinos, the industry known as pawn shops.

A Brief History

Believe it or not, the act of pawning didn’t even originate from the Western world. Various sources traced it back at least 3,000 years to ancient China. This, however, shouldn’t come as a surprise, as the Chinese people are some of the most proficient business-oriented people in the world. The mere concept of numbers, sales, and even loans are something that China can boast to execute well, even by today’s standards. Perhaps their proficiency is what lead to its worldwide influence, with written historical evidences of it being found in the Greek and Roman civilizations as well.

But the influence didn’t stop there. The industry of pawnbroking took on a life of its own, evolving its business structure along the way. Old documents would further demonstrate its benevolent rise and influence, particularly in 1462, when the Franciscans set up the Montes Pietatis, which granted interest-free loans to the poor (a preliminary concept of pawnbroking), though they were later forced to charge interest to prevent premature exhaustion of their funds (forming a system that would stand the hands of time).

Its Arrival in the Philippines

During the Spanish reign, Chinese traders would usually traverse Philippine waters to conduct business. It was in this particular stage in our history that the act of pawning may have been passed on and taught to our ancestors. Of course, we were not the only ones to adapt this particular type of business, as pawnshops may be found around the world, however, we were one of the first to definitely learn it.

The Better Alternative

As mentioned before, Filipinos would usually borrow cash from their neighbors in order to pay up their debts, but this brought them another dilemma in the process – more debts. Yes, the mere fact of having the debt collectors next door may have intimidated people into ever borrowing money from others who live nearby, hence why “almost” everyone decided to find alternatives. Pawning would become that alternative, provided that the people pawning off their items wouldn’t be borrowing afterwards, they at least have no further pending balances after. Of course, there are interest rates, but even that is a much better option than having your neighbors knock on your door during the early hours just to collect.

So far, this lead to a total of 18,500 pawnshops (as of 2012) in the Philippines. Take note that that count only represents the different brands of pawnshops in the country, and not their individual branch count, hence, the total branch numbers may dwell into the hundred thousands, so to speak.

A Cultural Phenomena

Believe it or not, pawnshops have somehow become synonymous with the Filipino culture, even going as far as reaching pop culture status. If social media memes aren’t enough, they’ve somehow found their way in your daily teleseryes, in which the strong-willed protagonist would pawn off a valuable family heirloom in order to pay up for a sick sibling’s medical bills. If this scenario sounds familiar, well, it has become a somewhat cliché of a plot among Philippine television, especially programs which deal with dramatic stories and such. Change up the family member angle and you’d still be presented with a similar focal point, pawnshops are solutions that our beloved protagonists would usually look forward to, and why wouldn’t they? They are fast, convenient, and are very practical when it comes to making a few extra amounts.

A Practical Solution

Pawnshops can be found everywhere. Think of them as your local fast food chain, the only difference is, you’ll end up with more cash right after the transaction. Aside from that, your most prized possessions will be handled with utmost care, seeing that every item has an equivalent value. Regardless if you’re going to pawn off your jewelries, your gadgets, your appliances, etc., you can expect a fast and convenient process which, for the most part, would only take a few minutes. Pawnbrokers understand the urgency of gaining extra cash without running into a road block, hence, why they would give an upright computation of the item’s value. An honest appraisal is all that a hopeful customer would ever ask for, and they’ll get it immediately after every item evaluation.

With all of these in mind, you may already have an idea of why people choose to pawn rather than to borrow money from other people. Simply put, it is a much quicker process in earning a few thousands rather than having to borrow money from hesitant people who might just lend a few hundreds.

Factors which May Affect Your Appraisal

Of course, you can’t just simply barge into a pawnshop and expect to automatically get a great deal in one go. There are several factors to consider when trying to get a good appraisal on your items:

1) Are they in good condition? – Simply put, damaged items rate lower than those which are in mint condition. What we’re talking about here is the quality. Make sure to double check your prized possessions before having them validated by the pawnbroker.

2) How much do they currently cost? – Current market value may also affect item appraisal. The older they are, the lower their current market value is, hence, your cellphone of five years (in spite of it still being in mint condition) would definitely have a much lower return than a newer model.

3) What is the reputation of the pawnshop itself? – This is where the honesty and good business practice of the pawnbrokers would come into play. Evaluate your options and choose wisely.

Out of all the pawnshops, is there one you can really trust?

Short answer: Yes! The thing about pawnshops is that, you’ll never run out of options to choose from. As a wise consumer and investor towards this kind of service, you’ll probably run into a well-trusted name with a clean track record. Most of the time, people would get a low appraisal from lesser known pawnshops. Transacting with lesser known establishments would usually yield less than desirable results, which is why you should avoid committing this critical mistake. You may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most honest return possible. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With their Pawning Service you can never go short in any amount, as they accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets. Amazingly, they also have a 35% higher appraisal VS other pawnshops in the Philippines. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its 2,500 branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and money remittance has a longstanding love story. The thing about this relationship is that one strongly depends on the other while the other gladly opens its arms to serve without objection. And while it may seem one-sided, it has been a very healthy relationship throughout the years. The routine of sending money back home after every payday is one which can always be expected of from OFWs, and repetitive as it may seem, they would never grow tired of it. Which is why the parallel existence of OFWs and money remittance stood the test of time, rich in history, rich in progress, and rich in purpose, it is a part of modern culture that will always be associated with Filipinos.

From the Very Beginning

There is no money remittance without immigrants and overseas workers, hence, let us turn back the hands of time and take a peek into the history of Filipino’s conquest for employment around the world. First of all, there are two types of Filipinos who would send money back home. You might have caught a glimpse of them in the first sentence of this paragraph:

1) Immigrants – These are people who have fully migrated towards foreign territory. They take oath in being citizens of their chosen country (with due process, of course) and are entitled to the benefits of being citizens of that foreign land. Immigration took its roots in the 20^th century (at least for us Filipinos), following the Spanish-American war, which lead to the Philippines becoming a US territory.

The common misconceived destination for OFWs is the Middle East, however, the influx of Pinoys towards the said location didn’t even begin ‘till the 70’s, made possible by an overseas employment program launched by the government, which enabled the Filipinos to work in the Middle East, especially those countries which are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

So, you may ask, “If the Middle East wasn’t our first choice of destination back then, where did Pinoys of the golden years choose to migrate to?” Well, remember when we said that immigration took its roots in the 20th century,   following the event that lead to the Philippines becoming a US territory? One of the main territories affiliated with US back then was Hawaii (as evident by the happenings in Pearl Harbor), hence, why it was estimated that there was an influx of around 120,000 Filipino workers between 1906 and 1934. Their employment choice? Sugarcane and pineapple plantations. Definitely a sweet lasting career.

2) Overseas Workers – Unlike immigrants, who take on permanent residency in foreign countries, overseas workers usually sign a temporary contract to work within a given amount of time, more or less lasting for a few months or years. Having a temporary contract doesn’t entitle them much to citizen benefits, since they aren’t local nationals under oath of that region, nonetheless, they enjoy the benefits given out by the company that they work for.

Overseas workers make up the bulk of Filipinos who were given the chance to work in the Middle East during the 70’s, forming the current cultural trend of Pinoys signing up for employment in the Arab lands. This extended towards the pop culture reference of Filipino entertainment, with movies and primetime dramas giving a routine image of protagonists going abroad to provide financial support for their families, with Dubai and Saudi Arabia as their backdrop.

Do take note that the aforementioned countries aren’t the only chosen locations for both immigrants and OFWs. You can also find Pinoys in the US, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Non-Pacific and Middle East countries have become the focal point of some Filipinos in the early 2000’s, obviously the result of foreign influences in film, TV, and radio. Some Pinoys would even factor in the cultural dominance of a country in their list of reasons to work for a particular region, perhaps preferring to bask in the wonderful sights as an additional inspiration for their work abroad.

Now that we have an understanding of the two types of Filipinos sending money back home to their families, we should also understand the significance of these remittances to the Philippine economy. If you think that their families are the only ones harvesting the fruit of their loved ones labors from the foreign lands, you’re definitely mistaken. Here are two important factors to consider:

1) Remittances from OFWs are vital to the country. It helps in sustaining the country’s domestic consumption and growth. As a matter of fact, remittances actually represent 10% of the nation’s GDP (Gross Domestic Products).

2) According to data gathered by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in 2017, the total cash remittances sent home by overseas Filipino workers rose to 4.3%. If that percentage doesn’t look much at first glance, then you may be surprised to find out that it amounts to $28.1 billion. Take note, that’s in Dollars and not in Philippine Peso.

Now, you may think, “Okay, the country definitely receives a “share” of those remittances, but how much impact do they have towards the economy in the long run?” According to a financial coaching website:

“The bulk of remittances in the country are important because it plays a pivotal role in boosting the economic standing of a nation in the world, by keeping it competitive through its dominance in providing services in export business, like in the export of goods and merchandise.”

Much like how the import and export of goods makes our economic cycle go round, money remittances somehow assists in that process. You’re not going to find a much better spin cycle than that of our economic structure. For the most part, it is a knowledge that only our avid marketers would understand, but for the average Filipino, it is an unseen part of their lives which are integral for their lifestyle. Needless to say, OFWs are the unsung heroes of this process, being the participating initiators of this cycle, even without their physical presence within the country.

To make the long story short, the timeless parallel of money remittances and Filipinos can be traced all the way back to the 20^th century, throughout the 70’s, and up to this present day. As long as there are OFWs and Filipino immigrants/expats, remittances will continue to flow and assist within our economic structure and financial make up, signifying a much stronger economic stance and a brighter future for the OFW’s families.

But that is made possible only by a well-trusted remittance center, and nothing indicates a more trusted name than Cebuana Lhuillier. With Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pera Padala Service, you are ensured an easy, quick, and safe way to send and receive money. With 2,500 branches nationwide and accredited international partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. All transactions are real time, which enables clients to claim the money as soon as the sender completes the sending process in the branch. So for our beloved OFW patrons, feel free to visit any of our international partners – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

For a complete list of our international partners, you may visit our website at https://www.cebuanalhuillier.com/pera-padala/.

Banks – what would we do without them? They’ve been around for centuries, allowing everyone to undergo and process their financial transactions within their preferred branches (given that they have an account, of course). People may choose to apply for a new account, or apply for a bank-sponsored loan, make a deposit, make a withdrawal, and even pay their bills. Indeed, banks are the one-stop spots when it comes to financial transactions. Every process is delicate and is handled by a well-trusted staff of the bank itself, may it be the teller or the bank manager. Nonetheless, one of the main commodity within a bank isn’t even the huge stash of money within the safe, but rather, the trust given by its countless clients. If a majority of people doesn’t trust a particular bank or one of its branch, you can bet that the daily crowd size would decrease within a short amount of time. No one likes to conduct business with an establishment grazed with a bad review, after all.

With all of that in mind, you may probably be wondering, “How do I make sure that the bank I’m dealing with is a “Triple A” choice? What are the traits of a well-trusted bank? How convenient are they than other banks which I’ve already had the pleasure of transacting with before?” All of these may be answered by taking a peek into the work structure of a bank itself, it’s relevance in our community, as well as a short history of how it was made.

A Brief History about Banks

Believe it or not, the first few set of banks weren’t even handling money transactions back then. Around 2000 BC in Assyria, India, and Sumeria, the first prototype banks (which were the merchants of the world), made grain loans to farmers and traders who carried goods between cities. It wasn’t until the reign of the Roman Empire did they adapt and implement what would become the system that we have in our modern banks right now, with lenders based in temples making loans while accepting deposits and performing the change of money.

Another important part of banking history dates all the way back to Italy, citing the crucial development of banking’s business structure during the medieval and Renaissance period. Now that’s the literal meaning of history, right there.

What are the traits of a well-trusted bank?

Each individual deserves to experience an exemplary service from their own choice of bank. It has nothing to do with the economic status of the clients as well (whether they deposit a big amount or not), as it is up to the bank and its staff to make each and every person feel that they are the kings and queens of the hour. It will always be the bank and its underlying staff’s responsibility to uphold the good reputation and trust given to them by their clients. With that being said, here are a few vital indicators that the bank you’re transacting with may be deemed exemplary and trustworthy:

1) Transparency – Whether a client’s loan application would come with an interest rate or not, it should be mentioned first hand, before any contract or agreement were to be signed. Of course, the bank representatives do not necessarily need to divulge all of the bank secrets to the client, but rather, the underlying fees involved in each transaction, including interest rates and other possible service charges. Some clients are willing to pay up these said fees anyway out of goodwill towards the bank, hence, why hiding any detail from them would be counter intuitive at best. Speaking of fees..

2) No Unnecessary Fees – It’s normal for any establishment to charge service fees in order to keep the ecosystem of their business running. However, this shouldn’t be abused to the extent that the client would need to shell out hundreds if not thousands of Pesos just for a single transaction. A trustworthy bank would always have the client’s goodwill in mind, which is why they should avoid overcharging them at all cost. Aside from that, the mere act of withdrawing and depositing money shouldn’t have any additional fees with them, unless of course a client were to withdraw money from one of the bank’s ATMs using a debit/cash card from another bank (inter-banking charges will always apply in this case).

3) Exemplary Service – Bank representatives should be active in helping out their clients with their various banking needs. A bank is considered exemplary if it has a good reputation that would precede it. Good services would always translate into short lines, quick flow and process of transactions, and good reviews from the clients themselves.

All of these may signify that your typical bank would definitely be the best place for you to trust your money with. But what if we were to tell you that there is a much better alternative to this? What if we were to tell you that such alternative is purely unique, unorthodox, and very trustworthy? Well, look no further than your local pawnshop.

“A Pawnshop?” You may ask. Yes, you’ve read that right, a pawnshop that also functions as a bank. Believe it or not, such an establishment exists, and it is none other than a longstanding name that you can trust, Cebuana Lhuiller, or more specifically, Cebuana Lhuiller’s Micro Savings Account.

Initially offered in their Rural Bank branches, it is now available through their entire Cebuana Lhuillier branch networks. But that’s not all, as there are still other advantages in signing up for Cebuana Lhuiller’s Micro Savings Account:

1) You will be able to use your 24K Plus and 4C Cards at any of the 2,500 Cebuana Lhuillier Pawnshop and Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank branches in order to withdraw or deposit on your savings. with 2,500 branches nationwide.

2) With a minimum deposit amount of only P50 and no minimum maintaining balance, it’s incredibly easy to apply for one. Other banks have a higher required amount when it comes to the initial deposit, going as high as P1,000 – P2,000. And we’ve only mentioned the deposit amount, as there may be other fees involved if you decide to open an account in your typical bank. Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings account would not require you to do that at all. Aside from submitting a few paper works and documents for the processing of your account, you’ll be good to go in no time. How is that for unparalleled convenience?

3) It is now much easier to check your balance without even breaking a sweat. Remember when we said that one of the main characteristics of an exemplary bank is their smooth work flow and short lines? Well, Cebuana Lhuiller’s Micro Savings account beats that by a mile, by not even requiring your physical presence in order to check on your account balance. Instead, you may accomplish that via their SMS service, a much reliable way, ready to serve you 24/7.

So, what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now for more details.

Insurance, everyone needs them but not everyone can afford them. For the most part, people are conflicted whether or not they should get one, as the application and approval process gets a bit confusing after a while. Nonetheless, there is a far better alternative for those who wouldn’t want to get hassled in attaining a proper insurance plan. If you’re not updated on the latest trend, there is no need to look any further than microinsurance. You may ask, “What is microinsurance? What are its advantages over the usual insurance? How do I get one?” These questions are best answered with these following information. Get your pens out and take notes as we’ve got you covered:

What is Microinsurance?

Microinsurance is defined as an affordable alternative against specific perils in exchange for regular premium payment proportionate to the likelihood and cost of the risks involved. This is typically offered to the working class who may not be able to afford the premiums of a regular insurance, due to the rate difference. Of course, the scope of coverage may vary, however, the purpose is still the same, for people to get a financial assistance in times of need and calamity. The term “need” and “calamity” may also have varying definitions and interpretations, but those who have microinsurance shouldn’t worry as, in spite of that, they would still reap the full benefits of their chosen coverage package.

What are the differences between a Microinsurance and a Traditional Insurance?

Of course, there are significant variations between traditional insurance and microinsurance. Their general purpose are similar in perspective, but dwell deeper into their structure and you may find that one is definitely unlike the other. Here are just a few examples:

1) The intended clients – Microinsurance focuses on individuals with no insurance awareness. There is a reason why it’s a more affordable choice, due to the fact that microinsurance establishments aim to make it more accessible towards our fellow Filipinos who aren’t even aware that such services exists. These establishments are aware that the mere concept of getting insured isn’t exactly a well-conceived notion for many, hindered by the higher rates of traditional insurance. Speaking of which, the opposite can be said about traditional insurance, with the intended clients to be people who are well aware of their options and are willing to shell out a lot for any form of coverage.

2) The simplicity of contents – Simply put, microinsurance features are easier to understand. Microinsurance establishments are less about the complications and more about the understanding of their clients, hence, if you’re going to apply for one, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to learn about the ins and outs of the coverage that you’re planning to acquire.

3) The pricing – If you’re going to apply for a microinsurance coverage, fear not about the prices, as they are definitely way lower than traditional insurance. You do not need to spend thousands just to have a modest coverage or plan, all you need to do is to discuss your options and choose from a wide range of premiums.

4) The requirements – This is one of the main reasons why most people aren’t too enthusiastic about getting insurance, due to the fact that the mere application itself would require lots of paperwork and documents. Especially in a country such as the Philippines, the amount of processing time just for the requirements alone would really test your patience, having to fill up countless forms, just to stand in line thereafter, then be told to come back another day due to an unfulfilled checklist of documents which you may or may have not even come across before.

5) The collection period – Microinsurance payments are mostly collected every week, with some even on an irregular basis. The opposite can be said about traditional insurance, where they collect annually or every month, which would then coincide with some due date bill payments, leading to a more expense-filled week.

6) The damage assessment – Both microinsurance and traditional insurance have that general aim of providing financial assistance when a client experiences a sudden roadblock, either in the form of illness or calamity. However, the way that they assess these situations vary to a certain degree. For example, microinsurance has a simpler and faster method of assessment than a traditional insurance, so you wouldn’t have to wait long in times of emergencies, unlike the typical insurance method which would require several documents as proof, in turn using up an extended period of time for the process to be completed.

What coverage and premiums may a microinsurance offer?

In spite of the fact that it is a more affordable option, it still offers a lot of perks that may cover various aspects of a client’s everyday life. Whether they’re at work, at school, or even when they’re home, they can still enjoy the premiums that microinsurance has to offer.

1) For students – All parents are concerned about the safety and well-being of their kids, hence, why it would be a good choice to sign them up for a student premium. During their time inside and outside the classroom, anything can happen. Accidents during play may occur and such may bring a sudden influx of expenses. A student premium would definitely help out with that. Some premiums would even allow parents to sign up their kids as early as 4 years of age.

2) For employees – Going from young kids to adults, an employee coverage works in a similar style as a student premium, with the main difference of sudden occurrences happening within the workplace rather than a school ground. Simply put, it covers accidental death, Disablement & Dismemberment (ADD&D), accidental medical cash aid, burial benefit (accident/sickness), Unprovoked Murder & Assault (UMA), motorcycling and personal liability. Now, that’s what you would definitely call a complete coverage.

3) For automobiles (personal vehicle) – Basically, microinsurance does not limit its services towards humans alone, it also protects your car. A standard vehicle coverage covers Own Damage (OD), theft, loss and/or damage, Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). Now, having your vehicle repaired wouldn’t be too much of a hassle (as long as they’re within the given set of premiums).

4) For your home – The Philippines itself is one of the most calamity-prone countries in the world. There are certain months in which we’d be hit with two or more storms in succession, hence why a microinsurance premium aiming to provide coverage for our home is definitely well needed. The average premium offers loss protection to buildings and residential dwellings including their contents against perils of fire, lightning and other allied perils such as earthquake, typhoon and flood.

With all of these in mind, it may be no surprise that you’re weighing in your options, analyzing which establishment would be best for availing a well-trusted microinsurance premium and coverage. Look no further than with Cebuana Lhuillier’s Microinsurance Services, affordable insurance products to help Filipinos avail of financial services and privileges that higher-income earners have easy access to, with innovative microinsurance products and services that promise to minimize impact of distress and misfortune on one’s financial position. Feel free to visit your nearest branch for more information.

More than 1.7-million Filipinos, including the ones pictured here, are now a step closer to financial freedom after opening Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings accounts. Considered as ‘Iponaryos,’ the micro-savings account owners are encouraged to follow the Iponaryo philosophy of saving at least P50,000 a year using their KaCebuana Ipon Diary. To date, Cebuana Lhuillier, through its 8,000 employees, has taught the financial wellness philosophy to more than 10,000 individuals from far-flung barangays, schools, NGOs, LGUs, and cooperatives. By year-end, it aims to conduct at least 500 more cascades towards its thrust to convert at least three-million Iponaryos nationwide.