Category: Press Room

Jewelry is everyone’s best friend. You may get properly groomed with a gold or silver ring, a necklace, a bracelet, or even a pair of earrings, and the outcome would always be the same, you’d always look elegant and dashing all throughout. In such case, you are thinking of trying to get a bargain over other shops and are analyzing your options. A majority would go for the obvious choice; but not all obvious choices are correct. Here are a few pointers regarding buying jewelry from pawnshops vs. buying them from jewelers:

Buying from pawnshops:

• Pawnshops are more analytic when it comes to pricing their items. Believe it or not, they can even price their gold pieces according to the current price of gold in the market. Think of it as their way of monitoring the market, in order to ensure that you, as the buyer, and them as the seller are both going to get the best deal. This means that their prices are even more realistic than what you can find on a jewelry retailer nowadays.

• Aside from monitoring, they can also adjust their price to reflect the said rate of jewelry. While jewelers price their items according to its make, design, and even designer name, pawnbrokers price theirs according to weight and karat. Think of it this way, it’s not all about aesthetics, it’s about the real value of the item. This means that you would always get a fair price, or even lower if the item in question is affordable according to the market markdown.

• This brings us to one of the significant pointer of pawnshops; they would usually disregard designer name and origin, in order to evaluate the jewelry fair and square, its contents, its weight, its make, the intricacies of its design, etc. Getting rid of the designer name makes it more practical to analyze the item, since you wouldn’t want to raise its price just because the designer or brand name is famous. The reputation of the designer would definitely come last; it’s all about the actual quality of the jewelry.

Buying from jewelers:

• Jewelers or retail jewelry shops in particular do little to no effort when it comes to changing the price of the item. It’s all about the origin of the item (how it was designed, who designed it, etc.). In short, they are all priced according to cost basis. It’s just like buying one of those modern cellphones, regardless of the features; you’re always going to be charged according to the name and legacy of its manufacturer, not because of the functionality and convenience it provides.

• Fun Fact: Jewelers buy their items wholesale, like groceries. Now, take notice of the word ‘buy’ from that recent sentence. You may ask, “So, jewelers spend money outright just so they’ll have something to sell?” Yes, you got that right. The thing is, this will enable them to mark up the price of each item, even going as high as a 100%, in order to get back what they’ve spent and make a profit at the same time. So regardless if it’s just a small ring or a miniscule pair of earrings, you will still be charged a high cost. We’re not even getting to the part that they might charge more simply because the item was made by a well-known designer, no different from those luxurious designer bags or dresses.

• A jeweler wouldn’t bother to adjust their prices due to the two former reasons; hence, you would not be able to adjust your budget. There is never a low cost when it comes to retail jewelers, unlike pawnshops, in which both you and the pawnbroker could strike a fair deal – a win-win situation.

With all of that being said, 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, as collateral. In such case, they’d also offer the best items they have once you decide to buy jewelry from them. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its close to 2,500 branches nationwide.

Image source: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/golden-jewelry-in-store-window_1474608.htm

OFWs are one of the thriftiest when it comes to their budget. There are countless stories of OFWs coming back and staying in the Philippines for good, with their entire savings well enough to last them for countless years to come. Perhaps that would be an indicator that they finally have enough for a local business venture. Either that or they were able to settle down with a non-luxurious lifestyle, hence, decreasing their daily expenses. With that in mind, there are also those who were unlucky enough, perhaps due to a few wrong decisions along the way. With their savings gone and foreign contract fulfilled, they are obliged to travel again and repeat the never-ending loop of working far away from home. Don’t make the same mistakes, avoid the following pitfalls:

1) Falling for pyramid scams.

Pyramid scams are rampant and some victims are OFWs. Many of them are tempted to join such get-rich-quick scams due to the fact that an easy surge of money would mean that they’ll be able to come home to their families sooner than expected. These are of course too good to be true, and they end up regretting ever participating and wasting their time and hard-earned money for promised riches which are definitely a lie.

2) Not setting a financial plan.

Don’t just strive to save; you got to have an end result in mind. How much are you planning to save? What will you be using it for? How are you going to save a much bigger amount? These are questions that only you could answer. Remember, the more you budget, the better. Don’t be embarrassed to create a list. Having a written plan of your financial goals is a great indication that you’re willing to put in the work, just so you can save from each salary cut-off. Speaking of which…

3) Not including your savings as part of the expense pool.

You might be confused, “Why would I even call it savings when I categorize it as part of the expenses?” Allow us to elaborate. As an OFW, you still have your monthly dues, bills, rent, groceries, etc. But those are just the usual expenses, remember, you must consider the amount that you’re going to save as part of the expenses as well. This is the alternate perception of “saving only if there is any amount left.” This is wrong! Instead, practice the “I better put aside an amount, regardless if there would be any leftovers or not.” It’ll motivate you to set aside a specific number, rather than trying to save from a few monthly penny leftovers.

4) Being the only source of income for your family back at home.

There is nothing wrong with providing for your family – it’s your obligation and the main reason why you left the country in the first place. However, you are also entitled to let your family know that you can only do so much. You are not the owner of a multi-billion company, and neither are you the president of your own country to provide for everyone every time there’s trouble and shortages. As an OFW, it is your responsibility to help and provide for the usual budget, but if you’re going to be forced into providing for the whole ‘barangay’ then that’s definitely counterintuitive.

5) Having no emergency funds.

Set aside an emergency fund every salary day. This should be different from your savings. The thing is, you shouldn’t even be touching your savings at all. Whenever unforeseen circumstances were to occur, your emergency funds would diligently provide for you, without hurting your financial roadmap in the long run.

6) Being a “Yes Man.”

God always loves a cheerful giver. During your stay abroad, you may encounter a fellow OFW going through some rough time. You should definitely help out, but do not pour out all your hard-earned cash, hoping that you’ll be paid back immediately. The best that you could do without hurting much of your budget? Respectfully say “No.” If your budget wouldn’t allow it, let your fellows know that you are in the same rough patch as they are, and you’ll definitely help out if ever you’d get any extra. But until then, you may just decline any effort to borrow cash from you.

7) Ignoring legitimate investment opportunities.

What better way to earn than to pursue a good investment opportunity. You could invest on your fringe benefits, you could invest on a house back at home, or you could even invest on a few healthcare services. These investments are not to be confused with pyramid scams, as those would usually promise easy money. Legitimate investments do not promise quick cash, but instead, showcase a few good terms which could work best for you. The more that you’ll indulge on investment numbers, the more that your money would grow in the long run.

With all of that in mind, you may have saved enough and finally 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 close to 2,500 branches nationwide and accredited international partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. 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/.

Image source: https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/money-flying-cartoon-vector_756523.htm

As the saying goes, a good magician never shares his secret. In most cases, it’s all full of smoke and mirrors, with a big pay off at the end. The same can’t be said for pawnshops though. Pawnshops have a set of rules and policies to follow, each one put in place in order to make sure that, unlike magic tricks, there are no sleight of hand, but instead, great deals and value between the pawner and pawnbroker. The goal for both parties is to attain a win-win situation at the end. In such case, many are still intrigued and unaware of the process that happens within the pawnshop, many questions which were left unanswered, until now.

Here are 7 common questions about how pawnshops operate:

1) What are pawnshops for?

Want to earn a few extra cash? You may just head over to your nearest pawnshop, just make sure that the items you’d bring are in good condition. You may see pawnshops as an establishment to lend you cash, in a way, it is. However, unlike banks, pawnshops would require you to leave behind a valuable item, may it be jewelry, a gadget, etc., after which, the pawnshop will hold onto that item. Only after the loaned amount has been paid in full could you get your valuable/s back.

2) I can get a loan from places other than pawnshops, so why go to a pawnshop then?

When you say other places, you may have been referring to banks. It sounds logical at first mention, but remember, banks wouldn’t often take time to even bother lending you a small amount. There are a lot of paperwork that goes into loaning from a bank, not to mention, the hassle that you’d have to go through in order to even proceed with each process. Pawnshops offer something that banks don’t – convenience. Pawnbrokers would just analyze the item to be pawned, and then, you’re all set to receive the amount (the exact value would depend on the condition of the item).

3) You mentioned no paperwork, so what are the requirements then?

Two main things: A valid ID and the item in question. Pawnshops wouldn’t require any other heavy paper load. Just as long as you’re honest about the value of the item and you have a clear ID at hand, you’re all set to push through with the deal.

4) What can I pawn?

Jewelry is at the top of the list, but other items such as gadgets and a few select appliances are also accepted. As long as they’re not damaged and are still functional, you can bet that you’ll receive a good appraisal for them. Pawnbrokers are analytic, but not very picky, just as long as the items in question are qualified according to the rules and regulations of the pawnshop, then you’re good to go.

5) What are the benchmarks of indicating my item’s value?

There are a few important factors to be considered in doing this. For a better understanding, we may also see these factors in question form:
• What is the condition of the item?
• What is its current market value?
• What is the cost of storing/holding onto the item?
• How big is its potential to be sold?

Some experienced pawnbrokers may determine these factors upon witnessing the item firsthand, though in most cases, they’d do further digging, just to make sure that you’ll get a fair amount in return.

6) What are the offered lengths of payment?

A standard practice nowadays is to hold onto the item for at least 30 to 90 days, it would all depend on the agreement between pawner and pawnbroker. In most cases, policies are to be followed, so the pawnbroker would dictate the length of the payment period. No worries though, as you wouldn’t be given any unfair length, depending on the value of your item. Take note that you can renew the loan period (with a fair amount of interest in exchange). If you ever reach the point of not being able to pay back the loan at all, no worries, as the pawnshop wouldn’t even come after you; they will just keep the item or auction them off.

7) Are pawnshops secure?

Yes, they are. Most pawnshops are situated within re-enforced establishments, usually offering a safe place for you to transact with the pawnbroker. They are well-secured (CCTV cameras, security guards, etc.) and adhere to the law and regulation of proper pawning business practices. You wouldn’t have to worry about scams and unfair deals, just as long as you transact within the premises of the pawnshop, and with well-ID’ed and uniformed personnel.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most honest 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 with its close to 2,500 branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Image source: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/car-stack-of-coins-colored-pencil-calculator-and-magnifying-glass-on-financial-report_3090850.htm

Every once in a while, you find yourself in need of cash. When monthly income isn’t enough, you may decide to take a few of your pre-loved items out of the storage bin and sort out which you can sell off. There’s nothing wrong with doing that (especially if the items are still in pristine condition), but did you know that you may still do something better with your old items rather than simply selling them? Why, you pawn them off, of course. You may ask, “Are there any advantages in pawning over selling?” Yes, there is. As a matter of fact, we had enumerated a few of the most significant ones:

1) The item is still yours.

Yup, you’ve read that right. If you’re having second thoughts about selling your item, then fear not. Pawning allows you to receive money from your pawned item while keeping it safe for the time being. Of course, this is to be considered as something closer to a loan rather than a sale. As with all loans, you may need to pay a small fee monthly in order for the pawnshop to keep your item safe. As long as you pay it all off, then you’d have nothing to worry about. You can still get your item back once everything is settled. This is very much unlike a garage sale, where your pre-loved items may be gone forever, owned by the owners who bought them from you.

2) No hassle and haggle.

When selling off your items, the potential buyers would usually haggle with you, telling you that your pre-loved cellphone is no longer “on trend,” thus should cost a lot less. This is understandably frustrating, yet very avoidable when you choose to pawn off your items instead. If the item you’re pawning off is still in pristine condition, then there is a chance that you may still get a great deal out of it. You may do your own homework, research on the current value of your old items, and then verify the possible price to be offered by the pawnshop. Nonetheless, pawnshops follow a particular standard range, so you should still get a good deal with no haggling involved.

3) Aside from current market price, the item condition is also a plus factor.

If you’re the type of person who doesn’t like wear and tear on his/her personal belongings, then you’re in luck. In spite of the underlying lower value in second-hand items, you can still get a high rate from pawnshops rather than from garage sales. You see, a good-working cellphone, regardless if it’s second hand or not, as long as it still functions the way that it should would still hold significant value. Selling off the item, however, welcomes the possibility of the potential buyer wanting to get a better deal than you, thus, a win-lose situation. Avoid experiencing any of this and go for a win-win situation. The better the item is, the higher the appraisal from pawnshops.

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

All OFWs have the obligation to provide for their family. Money remittance is the most obvious choice when it comes to sending financials back at home. You may ask, “Is it all because of convenience? Is that the only reason why both the senders and receivers prefer money remittance over other forms of financial transfers?” Well, the definite answer would be negative, as safety and quick results would always come in play. With all of that being said, safety measures should still be practiced by both sides, especially now that countless scams are rampant. Here are a few important tips for both the senders and receivers regarding safe money transfers:

1) Verify the money transfer service that you will be transacting with.

If you are sending money, go for a trusted name when it comes to money transfers. Do your own homework, research on the remittance establishment before shelling out your hard-earned cash for the transfer process. There have been news of OFWs getting scammed in recent years due to them being in contact with scammers pretending to be personnel of countless remittance centers. Do not make the very same mistake. Be cautious and only transact within the confines of the establishment itself. Avoid any person claiming to be part of the remittance company if they are lacking the necessary identifications.

2) Only share the transaction details with your loved ones.

Never share any transaction information with other people, may it be your office mates or overseas friends. Things may get out of hand and the information may be leaked, leading to the perpetrators waiting on the receiving end of the remittance, rather than your family. Make sure to communicate the transaction only with your family members, a few days prior to the transaction itself, so that they may prepare for the quick travel towards their nearest remittance center. You may even text the details (instead of saying them out loud via call), so that they may only be the ones to receive such important information like control number and the remittance amount.

3) Avoid any suspicious-looking apps that may claim to handle money transfers via your smartphone.

While the advent of technology enabled a few legitimate money transfer apps to exist, that doesn’t mean that all of the money transfer apps that you see online are all legitimate. Some are just phishing apps, hoping to get your personal details, resulting to your income loss, or worse, identity theft. It is still better to transact within the confines of a well-verified money transfer establishment, just as long as you’d consider the first two pointers.

4) Be cautious of text messages coming from people who are pretending to be your so-called loved ones abroad.

Ever had the experience of receiving a text message from a person who claims to be your OFW relative abroad? Did he/she ask you to send over cash or cellphone load in order to receive that long-awaited remittance? Well, if ever you did, you are just one of the many that were a target of these ridiculous scam messages. Never give any important info, and most of all, never reply to any of these messages. If your smartphone would permit, block the number and report them to the authorities, as these crooks are always on the text prowl, looking to make an easy score from any unknowing person who isn’t familiar yet with this type of scam.

5) After receiving the remittance details from your loved one abroad, never share it to anyone.

This is similar to the second pointer, but in reverse. Keep the control number and remittance amount all to yourself. Never share any details; never tell of the upcoming money transfer even to your neighbors. Word may spread, and this may be utilized by thieves in planning to do something bad when the day of the remittance arrives. Remember, remittance info may only be received by you and you alone, so never hesitate to keep it to yourself.

6) Only transact within the confines of the remittance center.

Stay alert and be cautious of your surroundings. Never speak with anyone claiming to be employees of the remittance center. Only communicate with the remittance personnel inside the establishment itself. It’s easy to recognize which is which, identified by their uniforms and IDs. After the transaction (and as much as possible), never linger for too long. Immediately take a ride straight home, so that crooks wouldn’t have enough time to monitor or plot your every move. Remember, prevention is always better than cure.

Speaking of well-trusted remittance centers, 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 close to 2,500 branches nationwide and accredited international partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. So for our beloved OFW patrons, feel free to visit any of our international partners – we guarantee fast, easy and secure transactions.

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

Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/SkA2TeXOfks

Moms, what would we be without them? Aside from the unbeatable care and love that a mother provides for her child, she is also someone whom a son or daughter can look up to as he or she grows up. The most impressive thing about moms is that they aren’t only focused on household matters; most of them would also try to balance family life and career. The fact that they are able to accomplish this with seemingly no effort at all (or so we think) is what makes them the modern-day superheroes of our lives. This is even more challenging for OFW moms, who not only have to endure stress from work, but also the loneliness brought about by being far from their loved ones. For all the OFW moms who are looking for valuable tips on practical parenting but do not know where to begin, well, look no further than our five important tips:

1) Evaluate your priorities.

For moms who travel from time to time, it is important to set your free time for giving your kids the attention that they need. Fill in that gap brought by your absence due to overseas work. Communicate with them, connect with them, make them understand the situation, and let them know that even if you aren’t around often, they are always in your mind every step of the way. It’s tough balancing travel paperwork tasks and family weekends during your short annual vacations, but be sure to spend a majority of them with your kids. Show them that they matter more than any amount that you can earn from your overseas job.

2) Help them out with their academics online.

One good thing about technology is that they enable you to communicate with loved ones, even if they’re miles away. There are countless online apps that cater to your needs, specifically, those that provide video calling. With that in mind, you can now help out your kids with their school work. Be updated on their academic performances and achievements. Assist them with their homework and make them feel that you can still help them even if you aren’t physically around.

3) Always make time for communication.

This is somehow similar to the first pointer, however, this is leaning more towards the sudden offset of communication, not the planned ones. As kids grow up, they start asking crucial questions. It is essential for moms to answer these types of questions (in equal importance with the dad) in order to guide your kids with life advice and encouragement. Not making time at all for these types of situations may result in your kids becoming aloof and isolated, and you wouldn’t want that to happen.

4) Never forget important dates.

This is definitely one of the least things that an OFW mom would ever have to worry about (as no mother can and would ever forget their loved ones), unless of course they are always pre-occupied with work. It doesn’t matter if it’s your kid’s birthday, first communion, graduation, etc., never forget to acknowledge your kids during such important dates. Greet them, congratulate them, and show them that they will always be a part of your life regardless of the distance.

5) Reward them on every valuable triumph and academic achievements.

Birthday bash, graduation, high grades, you name it. Send over a new console that they’ve been asking for a long time, or the latest rubber shoes available in the market. If they’re at the right age, you may also buy them the latest cellphone model, as long as they promise to take care of it. Your choices are endless when it comes to rewarding your kids.

If you’re not sure on the type of reward for your kids, then why not let their dad handle it? You can just send him the cash amount to avail the item back at home. You are ready to send your hard-earned cash; 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 close to 2,500 branches nationwide and accredited international partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we guarantee fast, easy and secure transactions.

Image Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/TCYj_UxoIUY

We are all bothered by mess. It’s counter-productive to work at a station filled with your unorganized stuff, the same way that we are all hassled at home by a pile of our used clothes. If you’ve been putting off your cleaning schedules or weekend duties, the clutter in our homes would come back to haunt us, one way or the other. “How on earth would I be able to clean all of this mess?” – you may ask. Well, look no further than four of our best tips:

1) In with the new, out with the old.

If you happen to purchase a new set of wardrobe or furniture, it would only be sensible to set aside the ones which you are no longer going to use. Depending on the amount of free space in your home, you may either stash (in an orderly manner, of course) the old items inside your cabinet or at a spare room (for some, this may either be a room once occupied by a family member who already went away to work abroad or a typical guest room). If there isn’t any spare room at home, you may also store the unused items in your garage, provided that your car doesn’t take up the whole space.

2) Organize, organize, and organize.

What better way to organize than with a few affordable drawers or bookshelves. The thing about decluttering is that you have the option to arrange your items creatively, without having to throw away anything. If your magazine or book collections are just lying around the house, a nifty bookshelf may just be what you need. On the other hand, for those types of belongings that you wouldn’t want others to see, you can just simply lock them away in a drawer. The choice is yours.

3) Never leave off any minor clutter from the beginning.

A small amount of clutter can pile up, thus, leaving you with a huge amount of mess, sooner or later. Learn to organize from the very beginning, so that you wouldn’t have to put up with the clutter during your rest days. Weekends are for relaxation, so do not leave off any mess during the weekdays.

4) Pawn or sell off your old items.

If you have no extra space at home for your old items, then the best option would be for you to sell or pawn your items off, whichever suits you best. The thing about garage sales is that they always attract a particular set of people who are either looking to buy something cheap or add something to their novelty collection. In such case, you’d only be able to sell your old items for a smaller price, rather than pawning them off, which would provide you with a much better deal, given that your items are still in pristine condition.

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

Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/bYOi200uQ6w

You obviously need capital to start your dream venture. You may decide to apply for a business loan in order to acquire the necessary financials. However, you may be unaware of a few pre-requisites. These documents are important to assure the lenders that you are able to pay back the money that you owe after your business takes off. With this in mind, we have enumerated a few loan requirements for you to take note of:

1. The Business Plan

Lenders need to know what your business is all about. What products or services are you going to offer? How many people are going to manage it? How do you intend to grow? Where are you planning to open up? These important questions should be answered within your business plan. This way, not only would lenders know of your good intentions towards the amount that they’re going to provide, but they’d also have a fair idea of the amount that they should lend you.

2. Disclosure of other Debts

Much like when you’re applying for a credit card, lenders need to know whether or not you have other unpaid debts. This isn’t much about your business goals, but more of your ability to pay them back later on. If you have other unpaid debts even before you’ve applied for a business loan, chances are, lenders would have second thoughts in approving your claim. Not being diligent in paying past debts is a sign that you are unfit to pursue further financial responsibilities.

3. Collateral

As with all loans, there are times when the borrower would not be able to pay up on time. In such case, the lending institution may require collateral, something that they may get in return for the unpaid borrowed amount. Signing a loan contract puts you in a commitment to pay back what you owe, and not being able to do so would hurt the lenders much more than you, hence, the policy of acquiring collateral for the loaned amount. Take note that collaterals may come in different forms, may it be your car, your indoor belongings, or even your house.

4. Bank Statements

One of the main things that lenders are looking out for is your financial responsibility. Of course, the main reason why you’re applying for a business loan is because you do not have the right amount for your capital. However, loaning institutions would still require this in order to evaluate how healthy your business’ cash flow is. Are you the type who saves and spends responsibly, or are you the type of person who withdraws cash from his account and jeopardizes the business’ financial health? Your financial habits and reputation would precede you, overall.

5. Business Licenses and Permits

This is one way to show the lenders that you’re really serious about your dream venture. It doesn’t matter if you’re opening up a spa or a net café, as long as the local government knows about it and is cleared to operate within your chosen location, then it’s a solid proof for the loaning institution that your business would exist once they approve your loan.

When you’re ready to give it another try, get a jumpstart on your business venture with a trusted name that offers only the best service possible. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Start them young, as they say. It doesn’t matter if you’re still below the age of 30, you can already start your own business. Age doesn’t matter nowadays, especially if you’re planning to achieve your goals well within your 20’s. Whatever fits and works for you, go for it! With that in mind, every entrepreneur with a dream venture definitely needs capital in order to start their business. If you’re one of the few who have already saved enough for such needed capital, then we congratulate you! However, if you’re one of the many who have yet to find their investors, then keep on reading, as we have enumerated a few business financing tips for you:

1. Borrowing your capital amount from your family and friends.

If you want to borrow money, look no further than the people you’d meet each and every day of your life. Let them know of your intentions and be sure to explain the ins and outs of your business. The thing about family members is that they are always supportive of your good deeds, the same goes for your friends. If you present your business plan in a simple, yet, effective way, they may even consider adding a few extra to your capital, just to help you out in the long run. Of course, never forget to pay them back, depending on the agreed date and time. As much as they are your family and friends, you wouldn’t want any conflict to arise just because you haven’t paid yet what is due, even after your business has already taken off successfully.

2. Consider looking for Angel Investors.

Simply put, angel investors are wealthy individuals who provide capital for a business start-up, usually in exchange for convertible debt or ownership equity. Take note of the “convertible debt” part, that means that they may either refuse to receive money in return, but instead, partial equity of the business. This would fit you if you have no concern over being a full owner and are willing to part with some shares of your business in exchange for funding. Many businesses who rely on angel investors find success along the way (given that their main owners put in a lot of the hard work as well), so this is indeed a tried and tested way of starting up your business.

3. Via Crowdfunding.

Being a recent phenomenon due to technology and improved connectivity, crowdfunding is defined as the process of rallying people behind you in order to acquire the funds that you would need for your dream venture or business ideas. A particular website enables modern-day innovators and business hopefuls to showcase their ideas via videos and visual aids, thus, providing an opportunity for community engagement and funding on the needed capital. The more impressive your idea is, the more support that you will get from your countless financial supporters.

With those methods in mind, there’s another surefire way of getting a jumpstart on your business venture with a trusted name that offers only the best service possible. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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For us Pinoys, every centavo counts. There would come a time that we’d need to sacrifice a few wants in order to make ends meet, in order to prioritize the needs. There is nothing wrong with that, as the ever-increasing prices would dictate that we should live according to our means. However, there are countless tips, “life hacks” to be exact, which would not only enable us to leave a few amounts for our savings, it would also allow us to spend a few for ourselves and non-frequent relaxations times:

1. Keep every spare amount.

It doesn’t matter if it’s just a bit of loose change or a few 20 Peso bills, if you’re not going to use it for now then add it to your savings. What many fail to realize is, no matter how small your current savings are, if it accumulates, you’ll be glad to find thousands in your account sooner than later. Let your savings grow by keeping your loose change aside instead of spending them compulsively.

2. Manage your financials the same way that you’d manage a business.

No one wants their business to fail; hence, they would do anything in their power to maintain its continuous growth and income. The same thing should be implemented towards your savings. Making sure that your account balance doesn’t reach zero would ensure that you’d still have a well-maintained account to deposit to after every payday. If you do not have a business, the same principle still applies, just think of it as a learning curve for when you finally decide to have a venture in the future.

3. Make saving a habit.

It’s tough, especially if you have friends who’d usually invite you to those late night parties and dinners every payday, however, that doesn’t mean that you do not have the option to say no. If they really are your friends, they would understand, and if you really are motivated to save, then by all means, respectfully refuse any expenditure as you go along the way. It may take a while for you to adjust to this “saving” lifestyle, but the payback is much more rewarding than your sacrifice.

4. Never spend impulsively.

This is a mistake that a majority of us would commit. Temptation is everywhere, a new cellphone model, a brand new car in the market, a newly opened ramen house, etc. It takes great strength to pull away from temptations; however, that particular task is eased up by a particular motivation, to save. Remember, these things, no matter how new, innovative, or delicious they are, are only temporary, and the needs must always come before the wants. The need to save for future expenditures should always be kept in mind in order to avoid spending your savings on an impulse. Choose wisely, spend wisely.

5. Consider undergoing a lifestyle change.

For some, lifestyle changes would only equate to expenditures, however, that is just a common misconception, as you may also undergo lifestyle changes in order to effectively save up money. The food you eat, the clothes you buy, and even your way of commuting to work may very well eat up a majority of your earnings, hence, why not choose a much affordable daily meal package perhaps? Or a cheaper, yet, still good quality of clothing brand? Or even a faster, yet, cheaper commuting alternative? The possibilities are endless. The amount that you’d be able to save with these lifestyle changes would ensure that you’d still have some left for future expenses.

6. Be aware of rampant scams and money-making schemes.

Nothing can be more damaging to your personal budget than being involved in a money scam. There are many to mention, however, their “procedures” are all the same: “Invest some cash in our group and we’ll double that amount after a few months.” This scheme has been around for a long time and yet, many still fall for the same old trick. This may be due to the fact that they mostly operate online and are usually made up of people who are well-versed in twisting financial terms. Don’t be fooled, avoid them at all cost, and instead, find other means to use your money wisely.

7. Investing on Microinsurance.

One way of wisely spending your money would be to invest on microinsurance. It’s your choice, house insurance, life insurance, livelihood insurance, car insurance, etc. You may ask, “Wouldn’t it cost me much to invest on microinsurance packages? Why not just save the money instead?” Well, that may sound like a logical point at first, until you realize that house and car damages would cost a great amount to fix, the same goes with hospital bills as well. Microinsurance packages would actually ensure that you may either be given a big discount or a free pass from all of the sudden expenditures (depending on your insurance coverage). Aside from that, you’d never have to worry about emergency finances anymore, as insurances would cover that as well. Be ready, be prepared, and invest on microinsurance.

With all of those in mind, you may definitely want to weigh in your options, analyzing which establishment would be best for availing a microinsurance premium and coverage. Look no further than with Cebuana Lhuiller’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.

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As parents, it is our responsibility to teach our kids the proper way of handling finances. For some, this topic is too much of a taboo, especially for those who believe that money matters shouldn’t be discussed in front of their children. There is that traditional Filipino belief of not allowing kids to be exposed to mature subjects of discussions. What many fail to see, however, is that teaching kids the dos and don’ts of money spending would not only prepare them for a much stable financial future, but it would also instill in them a sense of responsibility when it comes to handling their finances. Here are five money lessons that may impact your child’s future:

1. You can’t buy all things immediately.

In short, this is trying to tell your kids that they just can’t buy anything they want, whenever they want to. Teaching this valuable lesson during their early years would not only refrain them from growing into spoiled brats, but also make them understand that money takes time to earn, hence, it should be spent, ideally, only when needed.

2 . Make the right decisions when it comes to spending your money.

We usually tell our kids to eat right and to avoid junk foods at all cost. The same principle applies for money spending. Make them realize that there are more important things than just toys and candies. Teach them about the basic necessities, such as clothes, food, and even shelter. Expose them to the fact that needs are always more valuable than wants, and that needs usually outlast wants when it comes to functionality, hence, the latter shouldn’t overshadow the former when it comes to budgeting and expenditures.

3. Money doesn’t grow on trees.

This is the best way to summarize the two pointers above. Make your kids realize that money is earned, not plucked from magical trees or summoned from your pockets. Let them know that adults work hard for each and every centavo earned, and that someday, they would definitely do the same thing. Instill in them the importance of spending wisely in order for them have a few amounts left for their piggy bank. Speaking of which…

4. Save, save, and save.

Teach your kids to save up for any future purchases. While they may be too young to work for their piggy bank savings, their main “job” for now would be to save up the extra change that they’d receive from mommy and daddy. As with Philippine traditions, relatives would usually give envelopes to the little members of the family during the holiday season. Teach them to keep these gifts aside for their future purchases.

5. Learning to share.

You might be confused, “I thought these lessons would encourage my kids to save and use their money wisely?” Yes, that is indeed true; however, this particular advice would not just instill goodness towards your kids, but also the spirit of investing wisely. Keeping money all to yourself would not enable it to grow. Proper investments, on the other hand, would not only gain you financial experience, it would also enable you to see your earnings grow each day. Sharing their money to those in need would let them see that the money they provided would do well in the long run.

Of course, when we’re talking about proper investments and savings, there is only one trusted name that we can surely recommend our kids in the future. If you’re a resident of Bacoor, Cavite, and Batangas, then the Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank is your one-stop spot for opening your own savings account. All transactions are real time, erasing all the hassles that you may experience in other establishments. So what are you waiting for? Visit the Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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1. Fly Home with Cebuana Lhuillier Countrywide Promo Mechanics
   • Complete qualified transaction: Remittance (any amount) sent from Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Canada to the Philippines through any of CL’s remittance partners and claimed in close to 2,500 branches nationwide.
   • (1) one qualified transaction per month = (1) one e-raffle entry
   • Lucky senders from each country will be drawn to win a roundtrip ticket to the Philippines on the following raffle draw schedule:

List of Participating Partners:

1. • Roundtrip tickets are only valid for 6 months, upon claiming of winners.
   • Raffle draw will be held at ICT Office 3F The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor. Comet Sts. Bel-Air Makati City
   • Announcement of winners will be done thru partner in-branch announcement and social media.

2. Promo reminders:

1. • Raffle entries are computer-generated and are based on transaction numbers and agreed cut-off per month.
   • Clients can earn as many entries based on their number of qualified transactions.
   • Clients can only win once.
   • Winners will be notified through partner branch announcements and digital winners’ ads. They must bring at least one (1) photo-bearing valid ID when claiming their prize.
   • Winners have (30) thirty days to claim prize or prize will be forfeited in favor of Cebuana Lhuillier Services Corp.
   • Roundtrip tickets are not convertible to cash.
   • Client shall shoulder all travel-related requirements upon return to destination country.
   • Employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, Ad/ Creatives Agency, PR and Media agencies, and their relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity are disqualified from joining the promotion.

There are times when you find yourself needing financial help. You may be looking for ways to avail that shiny new cellphone or embark on your dream vacation. Sometimes, you may also find yourself financially able, only needing a few extra amounts in order to buy something costly or pay up a major debt. In such case, you may need to apply for a personal loan. It’s easy to submit your requirements and to just wait for your approval. However, there are also instances when you’re not really sure if you’re ready to apply for one. Here are a few indicators that you may be ready for a personal loan:

1. You’re in real need of cash.

We’re not just talking about the usual grocery budget or house rent payments, but rather, you’re in dire need to pay for something major. A personal loan would ensure that you have the amount ready, may it be a sudden injury or the debt collector knocking at your door.

2. You have the complete requirements.

Paperwork can be too time-consuming; however, if you already went through this particular stage, then congratulations! The thing about personal loan application is that the lenders aren’t just validating your past credit history, they’re also on the lookout for your dedication and focus during the whole process itself. If you have the commitment to complete your requirements, then you also have the potential to pay up in return according to the loan conditions.

3. Your means of income is consistent.

The thing about loans is that, basically, you are just borrowing money, regardless of the amount and the main purpose of your loan application. If your job pays regularly with no delay whatsoever, then you are in a good position to apply for a personal loan, as this entails that your regular income would enable you to pay back the loaned amount with no delay in the future.

4. You have a clean credit history.

Lenders usually do background checks when it comes to loan applications, and this includes the credit history of the applicant. Was he/she diligent enough to completely pay for their past loans? Do they have an outstanding credit balance? Do they have a positive credit score? All of these will come into play during your personal loan application, and not setting your past obligations would hurt your chances.

5. You have a manageable debt.

Now, don’t be confused. We had already mentioned before that you may opt for a personal loan in order to pay up a major debt. However, also take into consideration the amount of the debt itself. You can use a personal loan to pay up a 4-digit debt, but anything more than that and you may need to find other ways in order to complete that obligation. Think about it, what’s the use of paying a very high debt with a huge loan if that would mean you still have the same amount to pay up in the long run.

6. You are committed to paying in long term.

If you are the type of person who is okay with sticking to long-term financial obligations, then by all means, a personal loan may indeed be right up your alley. Take note that others would prefer a one-time payment, but that means they would need to pay up immediately, whether they already have something to pay with or not. A long-term payment such as a personal loan would mean that you’d have enough time and breathing space to pay the loaned amount.

With all of that in mind, when you’re hoping to acquire a personal loan, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time.

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It may seem strange for some, but being in financial trouble usually doesn’t sink in, not until it’s already too late. For most people, being in financial trouble would usually mean that the debt collectors are piling up on your front door, calling you in the late hours, or making their presence felt via service disconnection or summon letters. But did you know that there are other indicators when it comes to being in financial trouble. Here are a few major examples to look out for:

1) You have no emergency funds.

Okay, so you technically do not have debt collectors bothering you, but that doesn’t mean that they are not ready to hassle you once you encounter sudden expenses (leading to debts). May it be accidents or natural calamities, emergency funds are a must, and having little to no reserved funds would spell trouble for you, especially as hospital bills are on a sky high nowadays and that they mostly charge a penalty for late payments.

2) You have an outstanding credit history.

Having a negative credit record would mean that applying for future loans would result to smaller chances of approval. Lenders are very strict when it comes to loan applications and a negative credit score would indicate that you are not exactly the most trustworthy person that they could lend their money to.

3) You are paying off your debts with other debts.

This is not the right way of paying off past obligations. You’ll just be going in circles, not having any amount to put into your savings account. Find other means to pay off your debts. Work part-time perhaps, or request for a few extra hours in your regular job, but never borrow money just to pay your debts. It would lead to more debts in the long run, and you’ll be trapped in payments rather than earnings.

4) Your monthly earnings are just enough to get by.

Simply put, you have no savings. What you’re earning every month is just enough for food and utility bills. This shouldn’t be your financial situation, but rather, you should have the breathing space to at least spoil yourself every once in a while. Having the chance to set aside even a small percentage of your monthly earnings would mean that you’re financially ready for any unforeseen expenses or purchases in the future.

5) You have no insurance.

You may ask, “What does insurance have to do with my current financial status?” Well, it may have no indications as of now, but it may very well affect your future. Insurances (depending on the types and coverages) would ensure that huge amounts of your future expenses, especially those which arise from unforeseen situations, would be taken off your load. Think of it as a way of protecting your current financial status from turning into a future financial trouble. You might say that, “Well, I have no extra cash to invest in any form of insurance.” That statement alone is enough indication that you are indeed within the category of financial trouble. Do what you must in order to gain a little extra every month, enough to invest on a worthy insurance coverage.

With all of that in mind, one may wonder if they can find just the right insurance to fit all of their needs. Well worry no more, as here in Cebuana Lhuillier. We offer our Alagang Cebuana Plus Gold, a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old with coverage of Accidental Death/Dismemberment & Disability (ADD&D), Fire Cash Assistance (FCA), rider benefit for Unprovoked Murder and Assault (UMA), and a micro-life insurance. ACP Gold is a 24/7 Personal Accident Insurance with worldwide coverage. For as low as P40, each certificate is valid for four (4) months and can be availed up to a maximum of five (5) certificates per insured. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we promise fast, easy and secure transactions.

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Whenever you’re on the road, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings. The streets and passageways are unpredictable places. In most cases, incidents and other risky situations can be avoided with precautionary measures. If you’re the type of person who’d rather be safe than take unnecessary risks, then these driving tips could save your life:

1. Always keep your hands on the wheel.

There’s a reason why, here in the Philippines, strict rules are set against drivers who use their cellphones on the road. This is mainly due to frequent accidents which are caused by distracted drivers. It is important to keep your hands on the wheels, so that you can maneuver away from danger if the need ever arises.

2. Pay attention to road signs.

Imagine this: You’re so distracted by your passenger’s joke that you fail to notice the “One Way” sign on the roadside. Then, accident ensues and you’re the only one to blame thereafter. Make it a habit to look out for signs that may or may not be too visible, especially at night. If you’re passing by a school area, be on the lookout for pedestrian crossings as well.

3. Keep a “one-car” distance between you and the vehicle upfront.

Don’t drive too close to the vehicle in front of you. Give them enough space, just in case they’d come to a sudden halt or turn. This is a very critical rule to follow, most especially if it’s a truck, a bus, or an armored bank vehicle, as they may have lesser visibility of the vehicles behind them.

4. Adjust your side mirrors before every travel.

Make sure that side mirrors are properly angled to give you visibility of other vehicles that are driving up your side. It would save you a lot of trouble; especially as some drivers aren’t responsible enough to honk when they’re overtaking. Prevent a few dents and scratches with the simple act of adjusting your side mirrors.

5. Stay within the designated speed limit.

Expressways usually allow drivers to run at a higher speed, but city streets are a different story, as there is a smaller space to drive through and the amount of pedestrians are a lot more. The general speed limit in the Philippines is 60 km/h as its minimum and 100 km/h as the maximum. This varies depending on the vehicle type, as trucks and buses are only allowed to run as fast as 80 km/h.

Memorize and comply with all of these, and you’d need to worry less about road accidents. The more you know, the less chances of you getting involved in a dangerous situation.

But just in case, you’d definitely want to avail a full-pledged service that has nothing but your best interest in mind. With that being said, nothing beats Cebuana Lhuillier’s AutoCARE Insurance, a Standard Comprehensive Car Insurance that covers Own Damage (OD), Theft, Loss and/or Damage, Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we promise fast, easy and secure transactions.

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As an OFW, it is our responsibility to provide for our family back at home. It is the main goal of OFWs everywhere and the driving force that motivates us against homesickness and stress. With that in mind, it is only appropriate that we take all measures to ensure that our loved ones receive our hard-earned cash with no hassle and no delay. And while there are many options to choose from, when it comes to money remittance centers, you have to be on your toes in order to avoid a few cons among the pros. Here are 5 traps to avoid when sending money overseas:

1. Providing the wrong details.

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. Your recipients would have a hard time receiving the cash if there are spelling errors, as the remittance agents from their end would usually require a valid ID for verification. If the spelling doesn’t match, then they will refuse to release the amount to your loved ones.

2. Transacting with the very first remittance option that you encounter.

Like a customer hoping to make a good bargain, learn to look around for various options. Choose one which would best work for you. Other money remittance centers charge higher transaction fees than others, so make sure to ask around for a much better and lower price. Remember, it’s always better to send majority of your earnings to your family, rather than have a big chunk of it paid towards transaction fees.

3. Not being aware of the current conversion rates.

Do your homework and make sure to time your remittance right. Currency rates change from time to time, and you wouldn’t want to send your hard-earned cash at a lower rate. Take a peek at your morning television news, flip a page off the daily newspaper’s business section, or simply search for the current rates online. The higher the conversion rates, the more amount your family will receive.

4. Sending the wrong control number.

For the usual money remittance process, your loved ones at home should have the control number ready. Regardless of transaction types, the control number should be 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.

5. Transacting with unauthorized agents and unverified remittance centers.

Probably the worst mistake that any OFW may commit is not taking enough time 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 determine whether or not they are verified remittance partners. If not, it would be best to avoid them and to search for a more trusted option.

Speaking of a much-trusted option, if you are still undecided as to which remitting center you should transact with, 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 more than 2,200 branches nationwide and accredited international partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. So for our beloved OFW patrons, feel free to visit any of our international partners – we promise fast, easy and secure transactions.

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

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For every pawning transaction there will always be the process of assessing the item. There is nothing unusual about that as it would only be correct for the pawnshop to check if the price that you are asking for is fair and justifiable. However, there are certain factors that most customers overlook in the long run, and that is the dos and don’ts whenever you’re getting your jewels appraised. It may even be the first time that you are reading about this factors, hence, feel free to take note of these important tips, as not only would they help you get a great deal off your items, they would also teach you the most valuable techniques in pawning of your other jewels in the future:

Let us begin with the “Dos”:

     1) Do feel free to check with multiple appraisers.

Many customers would usually settle with the very first assessment that they would get, not knowing that there may be a possibility of getting a better deal elsewhere, and that possibility usually comes off correctly at the end. There is a particular “rule of three (3)” when it comes to finding the best deal. Get your items assessed in three different pawnshops, in that way, you may get a reasonable estimate of your jewelry’s value. Whichever one of them offers the best amount, then go for it. Remember, you have every right to scout for the best deal there is, and your options will and must never be limited.

     2) Do your own research regarding the current rates and values of different jewelry.

What better way to come up with a reasonable price than to know the current market price itself. This is done in order for you to not undervalue or overprice your item. Yes, the customer is always right, but that doesn’t mean you have every right to price your item, at the expense of the pawnshop. Overpricing was never a right thing to do in the first place, especially if you’re pawning off second-hand jewelry. The opposite may be said as well if ever you do not do your homework, the pawnshop itself may attempt to give you a very low price, knowing that you do not its current value.

Now, for the “Don’ts”:

     3) Do not pawn to the very first appraiser that you would encounter.

Remember when we said that you should not limit your choices? Well, that also applies in this particular pointer. As with shopping for your own clothes, you have various options to choose from. Even a shirt with great quality- can totally be bought for a cheaper price. The same may be said about the pawnshop that you’re transacting with. After getting your very first appraisal, ask around for another price assessment. If the first one doesn’t sound right, go for a second. If the second one still doesn’t do it for you, then go for a third. Feel free to discover as much options as you can to receive the best deal.

     4) Do not pawn your items in bulk.

Remember, you are pawning off your jewelry, not your old DVD collection. Pawning them off in bulk only gives them an impression of undervalue. Pawn them off separately, to various pawnshops or branches, if possible. Whichever way you can get a high price for each jewelry that you’re going to pawn, then go for it. In this way, you may also get a general idea of their estimated justifiable price from each branch that you would come across with, make comparisons in the long run, and plan out your strategy with each visit.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most honest and highest appraisal possible. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With our Pawning Service you can never go short in any amount, as we accept an array of items, from jewelry to gadgets, as collaterals. We also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in our more than 2,200 branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Microinsurance is usually seen as an adult matter. When you’re mature enough to work and move out of your parents’ house, you may consider the everyday risks that you’ll encounter, thus, prompting you to get a financial cushion with the help of various coverages and insurance options. However, do you know that there are also microinsurance options for college students? Yes, you’ve read that right, microinsurance extends even to those who aren’t even working yet (or at least trying to balance both work and studies, if ever they’re a working student). You may ask, what advantage would it give college students? What is the use of getting a microinsurance plan that early? Well, no need to look any further, as we have enumerated a few important reasons why:

     1) Stressful activities.

College students grind day in and day out, giving your all when it comes to your studies, hence it wouldn’t be much of a surprise that you tend to get ill as well on certain occasions. Stress and lack of sleep is common among hardworking students, and trying to balance both your academics and extra-curricular activities is no joke. You may either experience the cold, the flu, and even the heatstroke if you’re not hydrated enough for your daily university activities. In such case, what better way to prepare for such occurrences than getting a health insurance? It is natural for students to live on a limited budget, especially if they’re not a working student at all, hence a health insurance would help cut down on the medical bills if ever they would need to be treated or hospitalized due to extreme academic stress.

     2) Uncertainty when travelling towards school.

Accidents may happen in the blink of an eye. If a college student were to commute towards their university on a daily basis, they are at a much higher risk of getting involved in a road accident, the same as employees commuting to work daily. This risk is even doubled per day, as they do not only need to commute towards school; they also need to commute back at home after class has ended for the day. Acquiring health insurance (like in the first pointer) would reduce the amount of expenses garnered if ever an accident were to occur during your travels.

     3) It is a long-term safeguard, even after you’ve graduated.

Yes, your young body may be able to withstand the everyday stress brought about by your studies, but that doesn’t mean that it’ll stay that way forever. A human body can only take so much during its younger stages, but once you had reached and went beyond your mature stages, you are bound to encounter illnesses that can only occur in your old age. Now, don’t panic, it may sound scary, but this can actually be avoided if you take care of yourself during your early days, including your college years. Some health insurance coverage includes check-ups, so you may know the condition of your body, and do the health regimen to tone it well-enough for your old age. Think of it as a fruitful investment, rather than an extra bill that has to be paid.

With all of those in mind, you may definitely want to weigh your options, analyzing which establishment would be best for availing a microinsurance premium and coverage. Look no further than with Cebuana Lhuiller’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.

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Your business loan application has been rejected. Your bright vision of a simple startup venture suddenly turns gloomy and you have no idea how on earth you can bounce back after this. Yes, rejection is a common part of being human. There may have been other instances in your life in which you were rejected, yet, this may very well be one of the heaviest that you have ever experienced. Well, allow us to turn that frown upside down, as with all things in life, there will always be a solution and another chance for you. You may ask, what do I have to do in order to pass my next business loan application then? Look no further than our tips:

1) Never hesitate to ask for help.

You may ask assistance from a consultant regarding the next step that you would do. More often than not, there are details that we may have missed, causing the incompletion of our loan requirements, thus, ending in a negative result. A consultant may be able to point out your mistakes and shortcomings, and may even provide you with some valuable tips on how to bag the business loan application the second time around.

2) Be sure to garner feedback regarding the rejection.

Remember in your high school days, when you asked your parents to raise your lunch money, only to receive a firm “no” and a scolding to top it off? Your parents would explain why you were not granted such hefty request. The same goes for rejected loan applications; you must know why your business plan and ideas were rejected in the first place. You are bound to make the same mistakes over and over again if you do not know where you went wrong, so asking about what to improve on would definitely help you prepare the next time you decide to apply for a business loan.

3) Smoothen out your business plan and proposal.

It may have been due to the fact that your business ideas were not presented in a very complete and convincing manner, thus your application was rejected. Analyze what went wrong and focus on either changing or improving on that. Point out the weak part of your business proposal and convert it to a formidable plan, well enough to convince the lenders to chime in on your venture. Remember, not everyone succeeds on the first try, so be sure to give it another shot.

4) Settle your past debts.

Alas, the past always tends to get in the way of our future, especially if there are still unsettled concerns which were not dealt with. Your records may have been the reason for the lending company to reject your proposal, as any company or institution would have second thoughts approving your business plan if you were not even responsible enough to settle recent debts. One main way of showing that you are capable of fulfilling your future tasks ahead is by fixing your past records and resolving your unsettled accounts.

When you’re ready to give it another try, get a jumpstart on your business venture with a trusted name that offers only the best service possible Cebuana Lhuillier’s Lucky Loan is definitely your top choice. It is a multi-purpose loan offered to registered entities such as tricycle operators, credit cooperatives and other groups, as well as SMEs such as restaurant and mini groceries, among other businesses. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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For an OFW, nothing can be more fulfilling than to be able to send money to your loved ones back at home. Not only would you be able to provide for your family’s needs, you’d also allow them to avail their wants every once in a while. It’s a token of your love, and definitely an indication of your support for your family. However, such may only be accomplished by two things: hard work and budgeting. You wouldn’t have to worry about being hardworking, as that is already one of your biggest traits. You wouldn’t be an OFW if you were not hardworking in the first place. The tricky part comes from the budgeting side. Simply put, this is knowing how to wisely spend your hard-earned money, so that you would still have sufficient amount left to send back at home. Here are a few tips to accomplish that:

     1) List down your daily expenses.

What better way to budget than to get a general view of your daily expenses. List down each and every one of them, from your usual transportation/commute fare up to your lunch money. Segregate those which you can live with and can’t live without. In this case, you can’t live without food; however, you may eliminate that extra snack in the afternoon if you’re not hungry during those particular hours. No matter how little you may save, it would accumulate well enough into a good amount.

     2) Plan your groceries.

Make a solid shopping list and buy only what you need. Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, etc. are definite must-haves, but if you’re not really much into other expensive grooming products (like hair gel and body spray) then by all means, take them off the list. Also take note of the annual sale, they are usually advertised through newspapers and magazines, so you’d be able to plan out better.

     3) Never use credit cards.

Yup, one main way of saving money is by not getting burdened with debt. Credit cards may promise a buy-now-pay-later scheme, but the interest rates may be unforgiving at times, and you wouldn’t want all your earnings to be spent on that. If you really want to purchase something for your loved ones (like a new cellphone for your spouse or a game console for your child), then you may canvas and ask around for a better deal, rather than be tied to a credit contract.

     4) If you can manage, get a part-time job.

It is common nowadays for OFWs to have more than one job. If your health and energy permit, then feel free to apply for a second one. Of course, be sure that you wouldn’t get into a conflicting contract with your current company, rather, go for a second job that would still allow you ample time for regular work and rest during day offs. The best way to save money is to earn more than what your average job has to offer.

     5) Never deprive yourself of your needs.

Yes, you may sacrifice the wants, but never sacrifice your needs. Being able to save does not mean you no longer have to spend money for food and toiletries; you still need to manage your health and your hygiene. Perhaps dining out on days off isn’t a bad thing, just as long as you wouldn’t overspend. Be in good shape, as medical bills would definitely drain your earnings. Keep yourself healthy and you’d never have to worry about other unforeseen expenditures in the long run.

With all of that in mind, you may have saved enough and finally 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 more than 2,200 branches nationwide and accredited international partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. 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/.

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As OFWs, it is our obligation to make sure that our loved ones would receive our hard-earned cash. While working hard for a much better pay would be our starting point, the end-goal is always for our family to buy their every need (and even wants). In such case, the process involved in sending them the cash amount should be tight as a drum and secure. You may ask, “What would be the important factors to consider when sending money to the Philippines?” Well, look no further than a few of our tips:

     1) Always plan the transaction before doing anything.

The rule of thumb, look out for exchange rates. If it’s an emergency and a family member would need the cash amount in no time, then by all means, send it immediately. However, if it isn’t really an emergency and there doesn’t seem to be any rush in receiving the amount, then you may need to time it right. Exchange rates regularly differ; no one can predict them, except for expert financial analysts. In such case, you may need to monitor the constant changes online or via a phone app, and then wait for it to reach its peak. If the exchange rates reach their highest (meaning that your family would receive a higher amount back at home), then go for it!

     2) Take note of the transaction fees.

Every money remittance transaction would require an equivalent fee. The price varies, so you may need to look around for a different remittance center that would cater to your needs. Also be sure to ask for any hidden charges, as some centers are reluctant to share that type of detail. Once you find a remittance center with the lowest transaction rates possible, feel free to proceed. This is somehow related to the first pointer, in the sense that, they both require you to plan ahead and take time to look for a better option.

     3) A great customer service experience indicates proper management.

If in case you’d encounter a concern during the remittance process, the way it would be handled would be a reflection of the type of remittance center you are dealing with. Great handling by the agents would mean that they care about you and the money that you’re sending towards your family, well enough for the transaction to normalize and yield great results. Be sure to take note of your customer experience per remittance center, so you’d know who to go to the next time you’ll be sending money back at home.

     4) Take note of the remittance center’s reputation.

Do your homework. Read every review and customer experience that other OFWs have had from a particular remittance center. If the reviews are good, then you may proceed to transact. If you’d hear of negative feedback, however, then do not limit your options, find a more reliable center that would tend to your every need. A well-known remittance center with countless years of service would indicate a well-established management, one which you can really rely on.

Speaking of well-known remittance centers, 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 more than 2,200 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/.

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Technology is a wonderful thing. Nowadays, you can do so much online that you weren’t even able to do so in the past. The possibilities are endless: you can order food, you can make a random purchase, and you can even monitor your stocks and private messages. Yes, the internet tends to provide the well-needed convenience that we have all been looking for, but do you know that you can also pawn online? Yes, you’ve read that right. Online pawning is the newest innovation that the web has to offer. It’s okay to be skeptic at first, as of course, all new things should be seen with an eye for precaution; however, the process of pawning online actually has a major advantage over the traditional way of pawning: Safety. Here are just a few pointers describing why online pawning is a much secure option:

1. Online pawning provides you your own secure account.

As with all social media apps, every individual account is segregated by their own details and passwords. This only means that a person would not be able to access another person’s account, unless they were given the critical details, such as the username, e-mail address, and password. Online pawning is no different, as every user or customer should register first before proceeding to transact in any pawning activities. This registration ensures that you have an account, unique only to you and you alone, including the access codes and other important details.

2. You can adjust your profile settings to tighten your online security when pawning.

Similar to other social media apps, you can also adjust your user and privacy settings. Think of it as a definite measure to lock out online crooks and hackers from your complete information. No longer would you need to worry about someone sneaking in to meddle with your pawning transactions; you can simply change passwords from time to time, adjust other privacy features, and see any transaction history in your account for good measure.

3. With an online account, you do not expose yourself to the risk of robbery or loss of the valuable item outdoors.

Simply put, you may accomplish the transaction within the comfort of your homes, away from the prying eyes of crooks in public. Unlike in traditional pawning procedures, in which you’d have to wait in line for your turn and risk being monitored by thieves, you can enjoy the pawning process within the four corners of your home, thus, saving you from any negative incident involving robbers and scammers.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a trustworthy pawn shop that would provide you with the best service possible. You may also want to know the estimated return amount of your pawned items and the possible requirements within the process. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With our Online Appraisal Calculator, you would be able to get an estimate amount of your item’s worth, get a glimpse of the valid IDs accepted in our transactions, and even have a general idea of the items we accept in our 2,200 branches nationwide. Feel free to explore our official Cebuana Lhuillier website now!

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As an OFW, it is our responsibility to provide for our families back home. It was our goal to find a greener pasture. When we finally find one, we are given more opportunities to share our blessings with our loved ones. But in spite of that, not everyone in our surroundings share the same humble goal as we do, and instead, do not have our best interest in mind. Case in point, there are money transfer scams, hoping to prey on unsuspecting individuals who are not cautious about their everyday transactions. Here are just a few tips in order to avoid money transfer scams:

1. Beware of suspicious e-mails.

Just last year, news broke out of a few OFWs being victims of money transfer scams via e-mail. The modus operandi was that a particular e-mail was posing as a family member message, asking for bank details and such. The unsuspecting victims then gave the required details, resulting to the loss of their savings and hard-earned money. Never give out your personal info online, especially if it has something to do with your financials. Remember, you are not sure of whom you’re really interacting with online, so be sure to check with family members if there really is an emergency back home before interacting further.

2. Quick-money opportunities.

Mostly found in social media sites, networking has been around for a few years now. There are countless promises of quick money, with the so-called “representatives” posing next to expensive cars, with a bundle of money in hand. If it seems too good to be true, it usually is. Do not fall for this scam; mainly because the only one gaining a huge amount of money is at the main peak of the scam pyramid, the “downlines” usually receive less to nothing at all. Never transfer “cash investments” when asked to and avoid dealing with their so-called “representatives.”

3. Use a well-known money transfer service.

One main reason of OFWs falling victim to money transfer scams is because they usually choose a money transfer channel which promises a reliable service, with no validity to back that up. These types of money transfer booths are unsecured, and full of security holes, which is why personal infos usually become compromised and reach the hands of scammers. Choose a well-known institution, with years of excellent service and unbeatable efficiency, only renowned by many of its clients worldwide.

Speaking of well-known remittance centers, 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 more than 2,200 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/.

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To further strengthen brand presence in the United Arab Emirates and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Cebuana Lhuillier participated in several local events such as Philippine festivals, sports events, and Filipino organizationled events. Among these include the recently concluded events like the FILCLUB Thanksgiving, United Boholanos Sportsfest, and the 6th UAE Sinulog Festival, which were attended by more than 6,000 Filipinos combined.

In an effort to inform Filipinos in the Middle East of Cebuana Lhuillier’s convenientinternational remittance services, the brand and its collaterals were mentioned in the program and prominently displayed in the activity venue. Similarly, attendees who registered in the Cebuana Lhuillier booth received branded giveaways.

Scams are rampant nowadays. You may encounter scams online, through the phone, and even in public places. This urges us to take cautious steps when dealing with a variety of people, especially those which we do not fully know. If your job involves dealing with jewelry, then it’s your obligation to avoid scams such as fraudulent sales and counterfeit gems. Here are just a few ways to identify and determine the authenticity of jewelry:

1. Color and markings.

There is a big difference between gold and gold-plated. Of course, you want to go for the former; however, the latter may very much look like the real deal, so it’s not surprising that many would be fooled into buying a gold-plated item, not knowing that it isn’t what they’d hoped for. Authentic gold has the Karat indicated on them; it may seem small though, so you’d definitely need a magnifying glass. A different metal underneath may also indicate a gold-plate, so be sure to inspect the jewels closely.

2. The magnet test.

Simply put, real gold isn’t magnetic. So holding a strong magnet nearby would determine whether or not it’s authentic. If the item were to be pulled towards the magnet, then it’s fake, but if it remains in the same position, then you may very well have real gold in your hands. Take note, however, that this isn’t a foolproof method, as crooks have recently adjusted to using non-magnetic materials for counterfeit gold.

3. Sharpness and roundness.

Another method is made possible with the use of a magnifying glass. When it comes to diamonds, you have to look closely. If a diamond’s edges are sharp then it is real, and if it’s rounded, you can very much be certain that it’s fake. Of course, it is not to say that all diamonds are perfect, as they are a natural stone and there will always be imperfections on them. Regardless, they are still worth a fair amount of money.

4. It’s usually in the mountings.

Want to determine whether or not a diamond ring is authentic? Real diamonds are usually mounted on gold and platinum. Fake ones, however, are found on gold-plated materials and silver, thus, you have multiple things to inspect when using this method.

5. Using sandpaper.

Here’s one “rough” way to check a diamond’s authenticity, by using sandpaper. Diamonds are hard, real hard! Hence, rubbing them in sandpaper will determine if they are fake or not. Real ones do not get scratched or damaged, while the opposite may be said for fakes.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawnshop that would provide you with the most honest appraisal possible. Here at Cebuana Lhuillier, we offer only the most accurate appraisal for all of our customers. With us, you can be sure that what you’re getting in return for your pawned items would definitely be fair and square, so be sure to visit any of our 2,200 branches nationwide.

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So you’ve decided to pawn off or “sangla” your item/s online, may it be jewelry or a gadget. All is well and good, until it’s finally time for the transaction, after which you are only given a certain amount in exchange. You wonder why the price was less than what you have expected. If your guess was about the condition of the item, then you are very much correct. Pawnshops have strict rules when it comes to the items that they’d accept (and in some cases, would not at all). This means that you may have not prepared the item, well-enough to look presentable and functional. Here are a few tips to prepare your item/s for pawning:

1. Clean it well.

For jewelries, make sure that there are no markings, discolorations, and stains. Unless you’re intending to sell a gold-plated item, there should be no discoloration at all. Real gold does not have any spectrum underneath, no silver or platinum markings at all. Gadgets are much more meticulous in a way, no scratches on the screen, no cracks, and no unhinged parts (for laptops and cellphones). Wipe off the dust and show that the item has been well-taken care of.

2. Check for any damage.

Don’t attempt to pawn off a broken item, the pawnshop representative would know and are skilled in determining such functionalities. Damage in jewelries is much easier to detect, all thanks to the simple use of a magnifying glass. Gadgets are much more subtle, yet, pawnshop representatives are also trained to determine loose wires, hidden cracks, and boot looped home screens, so beware.

4. Presenting a Certificate of Authenticity.

Some jewelry comes with their very own Certificate of Authenticity. This would indicate that they are indeed real, and not “bootlegged” (market term for imitation products) versions of the real thing. This is given to a few diamond earrings, for example, and is recognized with an authentic seal.

5. Double-check the functionality.

We had mentioned working condition before, but in this case, it isn’t just about simple damages, but more on the overall functionality of the item. If the diamond is falling off the ring mount, then that is definitely damage worthy of a huge price deduction. The same goes for gadgets which may either be rendered useless or not functional at all. A cellphone which has a blank screen and a tablet which boot loops at the home screen may not be accepted at the pawnshop, so keep that in mind.

With all of that being said, 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, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its more than 2,200 branches nationwide.

There are many things in life that you’d definitely want to avoid: accidents, injuries, illnesses, etc. However, there is one major catastrophe that many consider to be as destructive as hurricanes and tornadoes. We are talking about fires. We Filipinos have a particular saying: “It is better to be robbed than to suffer from a house fire.” This is true in most cases, as robbers would only choose a few items to take, with many still left in our possessionwhile fires which definitely destroy all our possessions and our home in the process. You may ask, “How could I avoid such catastrophe then?” Well, look no further than our seven (7) safety tips. Following them may just save your life and the lives of others around you:

1. Avoid octopus wirings.

Simply put, you should not overload your extensions. Televisions and computers are advised to be plugged into wall outlets, while electric fans and chargers are safe for extensions. Also take note of exposed wires, do not use extensions if they have this certain defect as it may cause ignition while in use.

2. Never leave any open flame unattended.

Weekend barbecues are a good way to bond with your family. However, you should not leave your grill lit when you’re already done with all the cooking. Douse out the flames and make sure that no active flame is still in the grill.

3. Dispose of matches and cigarettes properly.

Don’t just throw your matches away. Make sure that they’re already out of flame, and then, step on them to insure that they aren’t lit anymore. A main cause of fires is the careless disposal of cigarettes into trash cans, thus providing dry waste to further ignite the flame.

4. Never leave your stoves unattended.

Similar to the second pointer, this is more dangerous as this is situated inside your home, and not in your backyard. Be sure to shut off your stove when not in use, and never be too distracted by your phone, television, or computer, so much that you’d forget about that chicken you’re frying. Close the gas shut after use, so you wouldn’t waste precious LPG as well.

5. Be aware of lit candles in your home.

We Filipinos experience power outages every once in a while, which is why we always have a few candles ready. In such case, you should also be cautious enough to tend to your lit candles during the whole ordeal. Place them in a safe spot, better yet, over a saucer, within a basin filled with water, just for extra measure. Be sure to extinguish them when the electricity comes back.

6. Formulate a fire escape route.

You do not have to be in a huge establishment to formulate your very own fire exit plan. Safety is for everyone, whether you live in a big mansion, or in a humble-sized home. A fire escape plan does wonders. At the first sign of emergency, try to extinguish a small flame. If it becomes too hazardous, immediately get out! Your life matters more than your belongings. Also remember to drop and roll to the ground if ever any part of you catches fire.

7. Prevention is better than cure.

What better way to avoid a big fire than to be alarmed of a small one. Small fires can be extinguished when properly dealt with, hence, you should have smoke detectors installed in all parts of your home, just so you’d know when a flame breaks out. Have an extinguisher installed as well, so you may somehow get rid of a small flame before it becomes a full-blown house fire.

With all of that in mind, you may decide to acquire insurance for your home, just in case, you’d want to avoid any huge expense in terms of damages caused by natural disasters. Well worry no more, as here at Cebuana Lhuillier, we offer our HomeCARE Insurance, a very affordable Residential Fire Insurance coverage. And just when you thought it focuses only on a single disaster, it extends to other forms of calamities as well. It also offers loss protection to buildings and residential dwellings, including their contents against perils of lightning, earthquake, typhoon and flood. A complete recipe for disaster deflected by a microinsurance that you can trust. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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It’s finally summer, and you’re hoping to go on a memorable vacation. It would be so easy if only you had the budget to do so. You can’t go out of town or embark on a notable shopping spree without money; hence, you decide to do something about it. You have a few pre-used gadgets at home, so you decide to sell them off to other people, only to be faced with another important question: “How and where could I sell them?” Well, look no further than a few of the most common selling spots for old gadgets:

1. Via Social Media

Nowadays, it’s much easier to have your very own buy and sell platform. With just a few clicks, you can interact with a potential buyer, agree upon the conditions of the sale, and then arrange a meet up in order for the sale to really take place. The rise of social media gave Filipinos an opportunity to connect with many local and international buyers, hoping to avail their offered products and services; you may even spot a few apparel pages here and there. This is the perfect place to advertise your used gadgets, owing to the fact that it’s simple and straight to the point. All you have to do is post photos of your item, along with the description of its features, quality and condition, and your contact details, so the buyer may know where to reach you.

2. Via a Garage Sale

If you have more than one type of item to sell off, then why not organize a garage sale? Gadgets do not always come in compact form; some are bulky and way too heavy to be delivered (the old models of laptops and tablets, for example). Not only would you be able to showcase your items in the flesh, but also have an easier time selling them off, knowing that it’s your trusty neighbors that you’re dealing with.

3. Via Online Buy and Sell

We have mentioned social media before, but that is actually a much generalized platform when it comes to selling your items. If you really want to be specific about your purpose of selling, then perhaps a few specialized “buy and sell” websites is what you’re really looking for. eBay Philippines and OLX are a few major examples, and more can be found if you Google away. They are also user-friendly, only requiring you to register with a valid e-mail address, and filled with functionalities such as multiple photo uploads and item description boxes.

4. Via a Pawnshop

This may very well be one of the most usual and simplest solutions when opting to sell an item. However, it has one major advantage; you can still get your item back if ever you’d change your mind in the future. Most pawnshops provide the best prices when it comes to a mint-condition item, hence, a gadget that has been well-taken care of definitely has no problem garnering a fair amount when pawned off.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that will 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, as collaterals. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry in its more than 2,200 branches nationwide.

You may have a few old electronics lying around at home. There may come a time when you’d have to dispose of them in order to declutter, but what fun would that be if you’re just going to do a simple spring cleaning, without getting anything in return? Such items may still have great value, thus, providing you with an opportunity to earn a little extra along the way. Here are just a few tips to turn your old electronics into personal profit:

1. Rent them out.

You’d be surprised at how many people would be willing to pay in order to experience that vintage feel. Still have an old video game console or VCR player in your storage? Dust them off, test if they still work, and offer to rent them out to anyone who still has their own separate game cartridges or video tapes. Still have an old working washing machine at home (replaced by a new model)? Rent them out to neighbors who would like to rest their hands from the strenuous feel of hand washing, in exchange for a comfortable weekend of soft hands. The possibilities are endless.

2. Have a garage sale.

If you don’t want to rent them out, you may sell them instead, thus, ridding you of all the clutter at home. Aside from the fact that you’ll be having more personal space, you’d also earn cash in return. Just make sure to check if all the old electronics you’re going to sell are still in great working condition. Refrigerators, toasters, tube TVs, pre-loved cellphones and gadgets, and even VCRs are a sure sell.

3. Pawn them off.

If you think that you’ll get a better deal from pawning them off, then feel free to visit your nearest pawnshop. The model, make, functionality, aesthetics, and working condition are indicators of their price. Of course, don’t expect them to be as high as their original market price, as they are indeed pre-loved and used. However, the more mint and high-quality the item still is (even after many years), the more amount that you’re bound to get in return. Take note that you’re really not getting rid of them, as pawned items may still be redeemed in the long run; you’re just in need of an extra income now, and once you finally get your footing, back then you may opt to redeem your pre-loved items.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a trustworthy pawn shop that would provide you with the best service possible. You may also want to know the estimated return amount of your pawned gadgets and the possible requirements within the process. No worries, as Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back. With our Online Pawning Service, you would be able to get an estimate amount of your item’s worth via our appraisal calculator, know the valid IDs accepted in our transactions, and even have a general idea of the items we accept in our 2,200 branches in the Philippines. Feel free to explore our official Cebuana Lhuillier website now!

1. Cebuana Lhuillier Hong Kong (CLHK) Frequency Program is valid to all overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) sending remittance to PH with valid Hong Kong ID.
2. The client shall present the frequency card for every Cash Remittance and RTA transaction availed at CLHK branch to earn a stamp.
3. For each transaction of client, a Cebuana Lhuillier-branded merchandise will be given (1^st – cardholder, 2^nd – led key chain, 3^rd – bag tag).
4. Clients can avail the 50% OFF on remittance and RTA fees on their 4^th To avail, client must present three (3) previous transaction receipts (within promo period) including the completed frequency card.
5. If on the 4^th transaction, client will send two (2) transactions, the 2^nd transaction shall be charged accordingly.
6. The cards are non-transferrable and only original frequency cards shall be accepted.
7. Promo runs from May 01, 2018 to October 31, 2018, exclusive at Cebuana Lhuillier Hong Kong branch only and cannot be redeemed in conjunction with other promos or discounts.
8. Cebuana Lhuillier employees and relatives within second degree of affinity or consanguinity are not allowed to participate in the program.

Pawning off your pre-loved items would be beneficial, especially during times when you’d want to earn a few extra cash, or you have a sudden emergency to tend to financially. The most obvious intention when pawning an item would be to receive a great amount in return, regardless of need and purpose. This is just natural, as you’re about to surrender something which may have sentimental value for you. However, there are a few important factors to keep in mind, in terms of determining an item’s definite value. You may wonder: “How do pawnshops determine value?” Well, here are just a few indicators to look out for:

1. Market Research and Online Resources

If you think you’re the only one coming in prepared when pawning off an item, think again. Pawnshop representatives also do their own homework. There are many resources which the representatives may base their prices from. The most common spot to begin with would be from the internet, regardless of the item which you’re going to pawn off. Don’t be surprised to learn that the jewelry you’ve been keeping for a whole decade still has a recorded price online. Old items (especially valuable antiques and rare to find books) often have a price database, ready to be accessed by pawnshops.

2. Experienced Markups and Computations

They say that experience is the best teacher, and this is also true in the industry of pawning. Pawning is one profession that you can only master after many years of researching and dealing. It is already given that pawnbrokers are knowledgeable about prices, but the execution of haggling to give a win-win deal is something that only a highly-experienced person may be good at. Knowing all of this, they can determine how much they’ll be able to pay you in return without giving an impression that the whole deal was a 70/30 and not a 50/50.

3. Technical Features

Pawnshops usually base their pricing on the technical features of the items. Not to be confused with the literal components of electrical devices, the technical features of items may range from weight and quality (jewelries) to functionality and working condition (gadgets). Of course, if the items were to be auctioned off, they have to be in a good enough condition for the new owner to use.

With all of these being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most honest 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 2,200 branches in the Philippines. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we deliver a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Microinsurance can help you a lot in the long run. Regardless of your needs and sudden expenses, they may provide you with a well-needed cushion, especially in times of emergencies and calamities. Getting a very reliable microinsurance package is one thing, but filing a successful insurance claim afterwards is another. No need to worry, as we’ve enumerated a few tips in order for you to achieve a successful claim:

1. Be aware of your coverage.

Yes, you have a general idea of your microinsurance package, but have you read everything in the document and contract? Know the ins and outs of the paperwork, and never hesitate to ask and clarify anything written that isn’t clear to you. Ask which are included in your claim and which aren’t. Knowing all this would allow you to upgrade your coverage if you ever feel that it’s still lacking. It’s better to fix everything now than to realize that not everything will be covered later on. This would save you a lot of money and hassle.</span.

2. Study and review your microinsurance policy.

May it be your home, your vehicle, or your business, you must be aware of the policies that are included in your microinsurance. Doing so would reduce the amount of questions you’d have afterwards. You would also be aware of any possible loopholes or technicalities that may hinder your claim afterwards. This will also help you avoid any pitfall or wrong move which may deem your claim invalid.

3. Get professional help.

At the end of the day, insurance representatives are your allies. They would know every detail regarding the microinsurance itself, which is why you must inquire about all of the pre-requisites and documents which may come in handy later on. Ask them the things to avoid and the must-dos before, during, and after a life occurrence that may trigger you to avail the claim. Ask them too about the various ways which may possibly ease and speed up a microinsurance claim process.

4. Always keep a visual record of your properties.

Pictures speak a thousand words, they say. They may also help you with your microinsurance claim. It isn’t enough to keep a written inventory of your items, valuables, and properties; you also got to have a clear visual representation for each one. It would provide your chosen insurance company a clear evidence of your purpose for a claim application and, hopefully, convince them of an immediate action within the process.

5. Submit complete requirements.

We had mentioned this once already, and we shall mention them again. Prepare all the needed documents for your claim. Once complete, submit them all. The insurance representatives would definitely want to look into the whole situation and analyze your claim application. Giving them an incomplete set of documents would only delay and hinder your microinsurance claim, thus, lengthening the whole process.

With all of these in mind, you may definitely want to weigh in your options, analyzing which establishment would be best for availing a microinsurance premium and coverage. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuiller’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 in the Philippines for more information.

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You finally bought your dream ride! Whether it’s an average family car or a shining-red race GT, you’re off to hit the road. You’re filled with happiness and pride, knowing that you can dazzle your family, friends, and loved ones with your new car. However, not everyone who’d catch a glimpse of your ride would have the best intentions in mind. Car theft isn’t a new occurrence in the Philippines. We’ve heard countless horror stories of masked men forcing vehicles away from their owners, either by threat of a weapon or quick successive strategies. You worry about your safety and the security of your very own vehicle. You ask, “How would I be able to avoid such incidences?” Well, look no further than our helpful tips:

1. Never leave your car unlocked.

The simplest rule is also one which is most taken for granted. Never linger too long when hopping in your ride. Be mindful of your surroundings and carefully yet hastily enter, remembering to lock your door before starting your car. The same thing applies when you’re about to leave your car in a parking lot. Check that all your doors are locked, and don’t forget to take the key with you.

2. Never leave your car running, especially while it is unattended or unlocked.

Don’t give car thieves a free pass. Aside from the fact that it’s a waste of gas, an unlocked and unattended running car would be an easy target for car thieves who are always on the lookout for an easy score.

3. Never leave an extra key near your vehicle.

It’s always great to be cautious, keeping a spare key nearby, just in case you lock yourself out of your car. That’s fine, until a car thief learns of its hiding place and gains access to your vehicle. Always be vigilant when keeping an extra key, hide it in the most unexpected and uninspected places, just well enough for you (and only you) to find it.

4. Never leave your windows open.

This is most applicable in the Philippines. Aside from the fact that it’ll attract quick handed thieves in snatching away any valuables inside your car, it would also be an easy access for car thieves with weapons. Just cool down with an air conditioner and be safe inside your

5. Park your car in a well-secured area.

It’s better to spend a little in a well-secured parking area than an open lot with no one guarding your ride. Paid parking has CCTVs and roving security guards, well-enough for your ride to be safe and unreachable to car thieves.

6. Invest on a reliable car security system.

Anti-theft alarms are practically built into modern cars, but there are still those which haven’t caught up with the times. In such case, be sure to have alarms installed in your ride for extra measure. It may seem costly at first, but that would be nothing compared to the huge expense of trying to buy a new car to replace one which was stolen.

7. Avoid detailing your travels via Social Media.

Car thieves may scout you out, depending on your destinations. And when it’s finally time for you to freshen up in a pit stop, they would grab the opportunity to steal your car from you. If you really can’t resist sharing your travels with your friends, then be sure at least to post your updates only after the whole trip, when your car is safely garaged at home.

8. Invest on a GPS tracking system.

An installed GPS would determine where the car thieves took your ride. Some would even provide accurate coordinates, well-enough for the police to catch up with the thieves.

9. Never leave any valuables in your ride.

Don’t make it a double feature in one day. It’s one thing to have your car stolen, but another to have your valuables stolen along with it. Take everything with you, especially important IDs and ATM cards. Most of the time, these thieves aren’t interested in the ride, but more in the valuables in it. Do not give them the satisfaction of stealing anything from you at all.

10. Always be alert.

Trust your instincts. Never settle for anything less than good security. Remember: you bought your very own ride with hard-earned money, never let it all go to waste. Be vigilant of your surroundings and be sure to report any suspicious loiterer around your ride.

With all of these in mind, you’re probably thinking of ways to secure your ride (and financials) better, especially when the unthinkable happens. Well surely, you’d go for a full-pledged service that has nothing but your best interest in mind. With that being said, nothing beats Cebuana Lhuillier’s AutoCARE Insurance, a Standard Comprehensive Car Insurance that covers Own Damage (OD), Theft, Loss and/or Damage. Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we deliver a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Do you want to make a bit of cash but are already running out of ideas? Want to avoid the hassle of trying to open up a business or lining up for a loan? Well, why not try pawning out a few of your items at home. There are many things you can pawn – clothes, jewelries, and even appliances – but there are only a few particular items that would provide you with a great amount of return. Here are just a few of them:

1. Jewelry (in great condition)

Yes, the most obvious items to pawn are the ones that glitter. Seeing that this is the most go-to choice, you must not ignore the relevance of its condition. Remember, not everything that glitters is gold, so take note of the authenticity of your jewelry. Gold-plated ones would cost lower than those which are genuine. You have to look out for its weight, clarity, color, quality of craftsmanship, desirability, design, and present economic value in the market.

 2. Smartphones

One main thing to say about this is that the more recent its model, the higher the value. Of course, it has to be in good working condition as well. You’re not going to get a good return if it has dents or damage, so keep that in mind. You may also want to delete any stored number or media before pawning it off, for your own safety and privacy.

3. Laptops

Clearly, one of the most mobile and convenient gadgets to have around, laptops come in many models, makes, and even sizes (though they only vary by a few centimeters or inches). The factors to look out for when pawning off your laptop is similar to that of a smartphone: you have the quality, functionality, and physical condition. You must also delete any saved files, again, for your safety and privacy.

4. Gaming consoles

One person’s toy can be a valued item for another. Game consoles are now highly-valued in the market; hence, you can expect a great return as well. You also have the option to pawn it off with game CDs and cartridges—a nice little touch to earn a little extra.

5. Rare coins and antique items

Ask your grandparents for any item that they would allow you to pawn off. Surely, they would have a few unused antiques lying around. The price would vary, but the authenticity and aesthetics of the item would be a deciding factor for the amount. You may bring your grandparents with you; just so that you have backup when it’s time to haggle for a reasonable return/amount.

That being said, 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, as collateral-. They also lead the pawning industry by offering safety and the highest appraisal rate in the industry with over 2,200 branches nationwide.

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Trying to maintain a personal fund is not an easy task. You put all your energy to good use, day in and day out, yet, you still can’t seem to make ends meet. You let it all slide, thinking that things would turn out better in the long run—it may, but if you find yourself giving out more effort with less earnings in return, then it may be time to re-consider your options. It may finally be time for you to get a personal loan. Here are the things to watch out for:

1. Your earnings aren’t enough to cover your expenses.

If your debts outweigh your savings, then it may very well be the perfect opportunity for you to get a personal loan. Not only would you be able to pay your debt, you’d also be given the chance to freshen up your savings.

2. You can’t go on a vacation without spending your savings.

What’s another red flag to help you change your mind? Times when you need to loosen up and want to visit the white sandy beaches, but you can’t as it would deduct from your savings. Don’t reach for your hard-earned money. Instead, get a personal loan to make up for those dream vacation expenditures.

3. You can’t afford to pay for your medical bills.

Accidents happen, and you definitely want to prepare for any emergency situation. Low salary and high cost of living are two factors keeping you from starting up your emergency funds, hence are great reasons to apply for a personal loan. It’ll cover your expenses when you need it most.

4. You can’t move to a much affordable alternative.

Believe it or not, moving from one place to another is expensive. Think about it, you’ve been renting a place for many years, you decide to move and rent a much affordable space, yet, you have to keep in mind that not all rent spaces have readily available utility lines (phone, internet, cable television, etc.) so you’d have to spend extra for the processing of your lines. You’d also have to pay the movers. The expenditures are endless.

5. You can’t make home improvements.

Broken faucet? Expenditure. Cracked paint? Expenditure. Linoleum for your floor? Expenditure. Moving in a new space and fixing the broken things that the former tenant left behind is no joke as well. Home improvement materials aren’t cheap, and the more you’d have to fix, the more you’d have to spend. Did we mention that such concerns aren’t just encountered in new homes? If you own or have been renting a place for a while, it would still need care and maintenance, something that a personal loan would be good for.

6. You can’t pay for your own car’s maintenance.

You had the cash to buy yourself a ride, a good choice as you wouldn’t need to spend for commute anymore. In such case, there are also disadvantages – the gasoline prices and the maintenance repairs. If a certain engine sound may be bothering you, you may need to take your car to the mechanic. That doesn’t come cheap, so instead of using up your money for repairs, your personal loan may help keep the level of expenses at bay.

Overall, there are other countless red flags to look out for. May it be with your needs or wants; you’ll know when it’s time to make a wise decision. When the going gets rough and you’re in need of a quick financial fix, don’t hesitate to approach a well-trusted institution who’ll lead you towards a great opportunity. Never even hesitate to apply for a personal loan. If it’ll help with your current financial situation, then go for it!

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Starting a business in the Philippines is never easy. You may have the knowledge and the skills, but as with all things, there will always be a first time. You may even need to re-consider your own funds, your own capital, just to start up your dream venture. In such case, you need to approach a bank or an institution that would be able to lend you the right amount to start your small business. You may be unsure of the dos and don’ts, but definitely want your application to be approved on your very first attempt. No worries, as we’ve listed down four (4) surefire ways to get your small business loan approved.

1. Consider all your options.

It is always a must to understand the different types of small business loans available. Yes, you’ve read that right. There are actually different types to choose from, and it would be in your best interest to decide on one which would greatly work for you. You have the small business line of credit, the accounts receivable financing, the working capital loans, the small business term loans, the SBA small business loans, the equipment loans, and the small business credit cards. Knowing them would provide you with a general idea of how to best prepare the required documents, thus, pushing you closer to a well-needed approval. Each has their own underlying policies and regulations, so feel free to discuss them with your bank or lending institution.

2. Take note of your own credit history (then fix everything).

Your reputation will always precede you, which means that the lenders are going to do their own research during the duration of the loan application. Regardless of business size, if you have a negative record on your past credits, they may hesitate to approve your needed amount. Make sure to settle everything before submitting your papers to avoid such obstacles along the way. They would usually review your credit score/credit report, assets in the business, investors in the company, and financial statements, just to name a few.

3. Prepare the various requirements for your small business loan application.

Always remember that it’s important to be prepared and organized. Just like any other school examinations, doing your homework and reviewing your papers (in this case, your business documents) will give off an impression that you are very serious about the whole deal, and that is a big indicator for lenders to entrust you with their money.

4. Be clear about the amount that you want to borrow.

A small business would not require a big income, depending on the type of service and product that you would like to offer. List down all of your possible expenses along the way and let your lenders know that you are knowledgeable about the ins and outs of your chosen venture. Perhaps prepare a few documents showcasing your ideas, so that they may also provide a realistic rundown of the amount, a capital that both you and the lender would be able to agree on.

Get a jumpstart on your business venture with a trusted name that offers only the best service possible. If you’re a residence of Laguna and Southern Metro Manila, then Cebuana Lhuillier’s Lucky Loan is definitely your top choice. It is a multi-purpose loan offered to registered entities such as tricycle operators, credit cooperatives and other groups, as well as SMEs such as restaurant and mini groceries, among other businesses. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application-to-disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now—we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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We all make mistakes. You’ve probably done a few wrong choices in the past that you wish you hadn’t done. Your choice of career, your choice of words, and your choice of business—they are critical and have lasting effects on your financials. Here are ones you definitely should avoid: mistakes when buying a car, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. Knowing the dos and don’ts would not only help you avoid big expenses. It would also help you save up in the long run:

1. Not doing your homework.

We can’t stress this enough, but skipping the research phase is a big no-no, especially if it’s your first time to buy a car. Yes, experience is a good teacher, but you probably wouldn’t want to learn things the hard way. As with all major purchases, you need to know and look into car makes and models, reviews, pricing, rebates and incentives and negotiating techniques. Doing so would grant you an opportunity to negotiate on a good deal as well.

2. Relying on just one option.

Widen your horizons; seek out better deals, more affordable deals to be exact. As with all purchases, you have the choice to pick one that would work best for you. Do not be convinced to immediately buy in on your first walkthrough. Ask around, look at various car ads, and visit different car dealership showrooms. That way, you’d be able to compare prices and deals.

3. Buying from a salesperson you don’t trust.

Remember your main goal is for you to get the right car at the right price. Similar with the tip above, you also have the option to turn down a salesperson and walk away. If they seem too pushy or not knowledgeable about the car at all, then don’t bother to stay. On the other hand, the following are positive signs:

• The salesperson can demonstrate the features of the car and help match a customer to the right car.
• The salesperson listens well and answers your questions directly.

4. Not going through a test drive.

Never commit this critical mistake. When you’re buying a cellphone (or any other electronic device or appliances for that matter), you’d definitely want to check and see if it turns on. You have the right to check if it will be your money’s worth. You’re the one who’s going to drive, and you definitely want to make sure that your chosen car would run smooth and safely.

5. Not thinking it through.

You have to be sure about your decision; otherwise, it’ll all be just a big waste of your time and money. If your workplace or school is just a few steps away then there’s no point in availing one, especially if you don’t really have any reason to travel on weekends. If you’re more of a home-person, think about the pros and cons and how often you’d probably be using the car.

6. Not availing car insurance.

(Note: The only insurance required by LTO is third-party liability insurance and not comprehensive car insurance, which is what AutoCare is all about.) Not only would it pay for damages done on your vehicle. It would also cover physical injury and medical bills. Isn’t that amazing?

With all of these in mind, you are definitely ready to avail your very own car insurance; however, you’re not sure where to purchase one. At Cebuana Lhuillier, we offer the AutoCARE Insurance, a Standard Comprehensive Car Insurance that covers Own Damage (OD), Theft, Loss and/or Damage. Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now—we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Three lucky senders won return tickets to the Philippines care of Cebuana Lhuillier, in partnership with Cash Express. The prize came from a recently conducted promo of Cash Express for Cebuana Lhuillier clients who sent money to their loved ones back in the Philippines from January to April this year. Aside from making Cebuana Lhuillier the preferred pick-up station in the Philippines, the promo aimed to reunite senders to their families back home.

Winners Charilyn Angeles and John Paul Malabanan were awarded with return tickets by Head of Cash Express Benny Dacosta, Assistant Vice President and CLSC General Manager Erlinda Sumanga, Executive Asst. to the Vice President James Robert Afzelius, and Cebuana Lhuillier Services DMCC Head for Middle East Maynard Enrile.

Top Kapuso stars entertained Filipinos abroad for GMA Pinoy TV’s back-to-back show “Sikat ka, Kapuso!” last April 7 and 8 at the Newark Symphony Hall in New Jersey, USA and at the Sony Center for the Performing Arts in Toronto, Canada respectively. Event major sponsors Cebuana Lhuillier and international remittance partners Moneygram and WorldRemit graced the event that featured some of the network’s hottest local artists including Pambansang Bae Alden Richards, Primetime King Dingdong Dantes, GMA Drama king Dennis Trillo, Ultimate Star Jennylyn Mercado, Lovi Poe, and actor-comedian Betong Sumaya.

Over 3,000 Ka-Cebuanas from different states flew in to watch the star-studded event and to greet their favorite Kapuso stars in person.

We all want to have fun. After a hard-day’s work, you’re all set to go out and relax with friends, family members, or workmates. However, you remember that you’re actually trying to save money, and you don’t want to spend it all in one go. You have no choice but to cancel all your plans and spend the whole night and weekend at home. It doesn’t have to be this way, as there are other things that you can do to save money without compromising your social life. Here are just a few of them:

1. Go for bundle options.

If you want to dine out with friends, you may recommend a place that offers bundle options as meals. Some great examples are bucket meals and boxed sets. There are even seasonal discounts for the holidays, a certain tradition for fast food chains in the Philippines. The best thing about this is that you can even split the bill, so you wouldn’t really have to spend too much for just a single meal.

2. Take note of mall shows.

Have you ever wanted to experience a free concert? Follow your favorite local band’s social media pages and be on the lookout for their gigs. Bands or artists promoting their new album usually go on mall tours. You might get lucky enough to see them perform live, if they have a nearby mall in their lineup. You can even invite your friends to enjoy the free concert with you.

3. Always have the group rate in mind.

If you’re planning to go on a vacation with your friends, you can definitely save big with the help of group rates. Whether you’re going to a nearby island or an out-of-town landmark, you’re sure to encounter a few offers along the way. Never limit yourselves with just one travel agency. Time your trip right, and you’ll be offered either a summer or winter “barkada” package.

4. Volunteer to be the organizer.

What’s a more efficient way of saving money in your “barkada” trips? Be the organizer, of course. Plan it out in a way that you get to choose the most affordable alternatives for your treat—the commute, the accommodation, the itinerary, you name it. You can even convince your friends to agree on an “affordable” vacation since you’ll be helping them save up as well. They’ll appreciate it greatly.

5. Plan ahead.

If you’re aware of the usual vacation and hangout routines, then you can obviously set aside a separate budget for them. This is a process in which you need to “save up” in order to “save more.” You’ll never have anything left if you touch all your savings, so segregating one from the other ensures that you at least have your long-term savings intact.

With the proper knowledge of banking terms and conditions, you finally decide to open an account; however, you still haven’t chosen which bank to apply for, as each has their pros and cons. Well, worry no more. If you’re a resident of Bacoor, Cavite, then the Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank is your one-stop spot for opening your own savings account. All transactions are real time, erasing all the hassles that you may experience in other establishments. So what are you waiting for? Visit the Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank now—we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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If you’re a car owner, you have a lot to consider when it comes to taking care of your ride. Maintaining its look and overall performance is no joke, with a big chunk of your money going to the mechanic. Filipinos always prefer to cut cost whenever possible, even if it involves our beloved car. This is wrong, in all aspects, as car insurance should never be ignored, especially if you’re a first time car owner. With that in mind, we have listed a few common misconceptions about car insurance in the Philippines (and why they’re false).

1. It is very costly/expensive.

No, it isn’t. First of all, car insurances offer different options; hence, you are not just limited to a single package. You can choose one that fits your budget. Remember, the main reason you’re availing car insurance is to avoid spending a much bigger fee in the event of an accident or other unforeseen occurrences. Spend less now to save big later. Feel free to ask around and discuss your options with various car insurance representatives.

2. I don’t need car insurance.

(Same note as in the other article, only TPL insurance is required and not comprehensive car insurance.) Think of it like wearing a seatbelt—yes, it may be uncomfortable at first, but at the end of the day, it would save your life. Car insurance would save you from a huge amount of expenses in the future.

3. I’m covered if my car gets damaged by natural disasters, stolen, etc.

Simply put, if it isn’t your fault, then you’re covered, right? Well, it depends. Remember when we mentioned that car insurances offer more than one type of packages? If you’re just going to avail the bare minimum insurance coverage required by law and included in the Compulsory Third-Party Liability insurance (CTPL), then you may very well forget about these coverages. The insurance company will only provide up to P100,000 of financial assistance to the third-party victims to release you from liabilities. In such case, you may need to avail a comprehensive car insurance. Yes, it would cost a bit more than the bare minimum, but its coverage includes  loss and damages due to fire and explosion, theft, vandalism and other malicious acts by third-party persons, accidental collisions, etc.

4. The color of the car will affect my premium.

No, definitely not. No one knows where this myth came from, but it has no shred of truth in it. In fact, the factors that affect your insurance premium would instead be your vehicle’s year, make and model, your location, your gender and age, your marital status, and your driving record and driving behavior. Be sure to ask the representatives to know how this would further come into play once you have availed a particular coverage.

5. The bare minimum car insurance required by law is good enough for me.

No, you may actually end up paying a lot more after an accident. Think of it this way: it may be cheaper than a Comprehensive Car Insurance, but you would be burdened by paying a big amount if you ever get involved in an accident with property damages. If your car gets damaged, you’ll be paying for your own repairs. If you’re liable for the damages to the other party, you need to pay for those as well. Never make this tough mistake.

So, you finally decided which insurance coverage works best for you, but, you have no idea where to apply for one. Worry no more, as we at Cebuana Lhuillier offer AutoCARE Insurance, a Standard Comprehensive Car Insurance that covers Own Damage (OD), Theft, Loss and/or Damage. Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now—we assure a fast, easy, and secure transaction.

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Leading microfinancial services provider Cebuana Lhuillier together with the country’s top television network ABS-CBN and its radio arm DZMM and international arm, The Filipino Channel kicked off the annual Global Pinoy Singing Idol in historical Greece last March 24. Over 1,000 people gathered to watch aspiring Filipino singers during the finals round event of the region held at the Gazi Music Hall in Athens. Local actor Gerald Anderson and singer Morrisette Amon also performed during the event.

The event’s major sponsor Cebuana Lhuillier provided entertainment and cash prizes to overseas Filipinos workers who participated and won in the pre-game show, Letra Swerte. Cebuana Lhuillier also sponsored the competition’s preliminary leg held last 2017 in Vienna, Austria and Toronto, Canada.

Cebuana Lhuillier merchandising signages were strategically installed recently in select international partners in Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan to establish its growing presence and strengthen its claim as the preferred pick-up station in the Philippines. Having the highest concentration of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Asia Pacific, the said countries serve as hotspots for migrant workers who rely on remittance centers to send money to their loved ones back home in the Philippines.

Brunphil Express, Lucky Plaza, Singapore

Digitel Roppongi Branch, Japan

WCT Express TEPZ Main Branch, Taiwan

WCT Express Big Brother Branch, Taiwan

Three lucky families were given the opportunity to meet and bond with their OFW loved ones with Cebuana Lhuillier’s “Re Meet the Family” promo. The promo, which ran from August to October last year, gave winning international remittance beneficiaries a chance to visit and bond with their loved ones with a 4 days, 3 nights-tour plus PHP50,000 pocket money.

The Lucero and Umali families enjoyed the sights and attractions of Hong Kong and Macau, including a fun trip at Hong Kong Disneyland, while the Tandang family had an amazing time bonding over the exciting rides at Universal Studios Singapore. The del Rosario family is set to fly out to Dubai to visit and bond with the sender this month.

Pambansang Bae Alden Richards recently wowed Sydney-based Pinoys with a sold-out concert held at the Evan Theatre in Panthers Penrith, Australia. Organized by Memory Bliss Productions and sponsored by Cebuana Lhuillier, the concert brought together the best of Pinoy talents. Aside from headliner Alden, other performers include funnyman Betong Sumaya and Australia-based Pinoy talents Jhoanna Aguila and Calvin Orosa. Cebuana Lhuillier added excitement by giving away premium items and cash prizes during the pre-concert games and activities. A representative from Cebuana Lhuillier was also present to provide more information on Cebuana Lhuillier products and services for Australia-based ka-Cebuanas.

It’s easy to decide whether you should get a personal loan or not. If you are indeed in need, then go for it. However, there are also things which you should look out for in the long run. As with all transactions involving finances, you should be aware of the dos and don’ts, things to avoid when it comes to getting a personal loan. Here are just a few examples:

1. Avoid doing it on impulse.

Ask yourself, do you really need a personal loan? Applying for one and getting approved after is a big commitment. Remember, needs should definitely come before wants. If it isn’t then consider saving up for it instead of applying for a loan. Not only is saving up the less risky, it will also save you from paying tons of interest. It may just delay your desired purchase, but at least you wouldn’t have any interest rates or penalty fees to worry about.

2. Don’t just settle for the first personal loan you find.

Consider all your options. Go for one which will offer a better interest rate or other favorable terms. Learn to look around and compare all of the deals and offers. Surely, no lender would force you to avail their offer the first time, discover more which are out of the usual recommendations and you may just find yourself a great deal.

3. Never lie on a personal loan application.

Honesty is the best policy, dear friends. Lying will never get you anywhere, let alone, increase your chances of an approval. If that isn’t bad enough, did you know that providing false information on your personal loan application can be prosecuted as fraud and may result in jail time? That’s definitely a scary situation to be involved in. Tell your lender the truth and let them decide in the end. Your sincerity may just well be enough the factor that they are looking for in order to approve your application.

With all of that in mind, when you’re hoping to acquire a personal loan, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Happy Loan, a multi-purpose loan amounting to Php 5,000, Php 10,000, or Php 15,000 offered to any individual who is employed, self-employed, student, or a remittance beneficiary. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time.

So, you finally decide to apply for a business loan. You’re in dire need of funds to startup your small business and are hoping to get approved thereafter. This is all done with great intentions, but  such approval would need a certain amount of preparation, more specifically, the pre-requisite documents. No need to look further, as we had listed a few important ones for you to prepare. Some may vary depending on your chosen lender, so some requirements may be too much than the usual, however, it is always better to have extra documents ready for submission, rather than lack of it thereof:

1.Your background information.

It’s just natural for a lender to want to know more about the person applying for the loan. Let’s just think of it as their own safety measure, as some would really go out of their way to take advantage of careless lenders, and that is something that both major banks and lending establishments would want to avoid. They would very much ask for:

*Any prior names you may have used

*Previous addresses

*Educational and business background

In short, information similar to what you’d fill out on a job application.

2. Your business plan.

What is your business? What are you going to sell? What services are you going to offer? These are details that they would like to know of, and they would be able to see an outline of that through your business plan. If you want to borrow money, you’ll need to show a lender a business plan, especially, if you’re applying for a big amount. Even if you’re asking for a small amount, submitting a business plan implicates that you are sincere and serious about your intention to open up a business.

3. Your financial and bank statements.

*Basically, lenders require monthly or quarterly financial projections for the first year, then quarterly and/or yearly projections for the next four years.

*Lenders would require your bank statements, in order to confirm if it supports the claims you made in your financial statements and projections.

4. Documentation of collateral.

Collateral is a business or personal property you’re willing to put up, just in case you wouldn’t be able to deliver your part of the deal. You would be required to submit documents showing you indeed own the assets/items/properties up for grabs.

5. Other miscellaneous contracts and legal documents.

Specifically, they are the:

*Business licenses and registration

*Articles of incorporation

*Leases for commercial real estate or business equipment

*Franchise agreements

*Contracts with third parties such as clients or suppliers

Among other things…

After learning the pre-requisites, you may already want to jumpstart your business venture. Go for a trusted name that offers only the best service possible. With that, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Lucky Loan is definitely your top choice. It is a multi-purpose loan offered to registered entities such as tricycle operators, credit cooperatives and other groups, as well as SMEs such as restaurant and mini groceries, among other businesses. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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It’s always tempting to let go of your savings and avail of the latest products in trend. If it isn’t your modern cellphones and gadgets, it’s the newest servings in your local fast food chains, quenching your thirst and hunger for that mouthwatering and savory meal, all thanks to aggressive advertisements. Due to these many temptations, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that a majority of us Filipinos are not able to save up in a yearly basis. Basically, it’s either we’re just getting through with our exact savings or we’re just in it for debt payments. It’s a sad reality; however, you can avoid falling to this particular situation if you would just avoid the following pitfalls:

1. Avoid withdrawing more than what you need.

Of course, everyone needs to refill their supplies, so a regular visit to the grocery is a must, but you should take note of the product prices and only withdraw the needed amount for the purchase. It’s not enough to cut down on your withdrawals; you should also be wise in choosing a much affordable item in the store. Not all mayonnaise are the same, but if one with a cheaper price tastes as good as the one with a hefty price tag, then you may need to go for the more economical choice. This would apply to all facets of your expenses, may it be bills, groceries, or even emergency expenses, only acquire the amount that you would exactly need, on order to avoid overspending.

2. Know what triggers and contributes to your spending.

This is a matter of self-control. Of course, we all need to eat, but you shouldn’t always go for an expensive snack if you want to limit your spending. Find alternatives to your daily routines. If your daily route is manageably a nearby walk, then stretch out your legs instead of booking a taxi. Avoid that expensive coffee shop and instead go for an affordable fast food brew. The possibilities are endless, and so are your choices.

3. Formulate a shopping list (and stick to it).

You make your own list, including milk and eggs. You arrive at the grocery, only to find that they had already ran out. You then find a few “on-sale” items and purchase those instead, thinking that you had saved a lot as they were indeed sold at a reduced price. This may sound logical enough, but if you were to look back, the amount that you had spent on the “on-sale” items were a lot higher than your supposed budget for the milk and eggs. When you go shopping without a list, it’s easy to get lost in the budget, and it’s much crazier to not follow your list if ever you had created one. Create a list; stick to it, and save a lot.

Be a master of your savings and hard-earned money with a trusted name that offers only the best service possible. If you’re a resident of Bacoor, Cavite, then Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank is your one-stop spot for opening your own savings account. All transactions are real time, erasing all the hassles that you may experience in other establishments. So what are you waiting for? Visit the Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

You got your first car and are excited to be on the road. You’re ready to rev up the engine; however, are you ready for the unexpected pitfalls of driving? There are traffic laws that one should obey to ensure your own safety and the safety of those who are driving with you. It isn’t just about avoiding accidents, but also the sky-high expenses that go along with it in the offset of a sudden vehicle pile-up. Here are just a few dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind whenever you’re on the road:

Let’s begin with the Dos:

• Always wear your seat belt.
• Keep children in tested and approved car seats, no matter how much they beg or plead to get out. If you need, take frequent breaks so that little ones can stretch their legs.
• Review the official rules of the road for your jurisdiction periodically, and follow them always.

• • Follow the speed limits.
  • Pay attention when you are driving, even if you are familiar with the area. A surprising number of accidents happen only blocks from home!
  • Be courteous toward other drivers.
  • Give pedestrians the right-of-way in crosswalks.
  • Make room for bicycles.
  • Pay for your parking tickets or traffic tickets on time, unless you plan to contest them.
  • Keep a winter survival kit in your car for bad weather conditions. A good survival kit should contain a cell phone, matches, flares, a working flashlight, food, water, and blankets.
  • Make sure that your spare tire is in your car and that you have a working jack.
  • Make time for routine preventative maintenance on your car. Breakdowns can be dangerous and costly.
  • Plan your route out in advance for long car trips and keep a map or atlas in the car in case you get lost.

Now, let’s get to the Don’ts:

• Don’t drink alcohol and drive.
• Don’t let your emotions and frustrations get the best of you. Avoid road rage, at all cost.
• Don’t make assumptions about what other drivers are going to do. Just because someone has their turn signal on does not mean they are actually going to turn. They may be like the rest of us, and have forgotten that it is on!
• Don’t assume that other cars know what you are doing, either. Make sure that you use your turn signals and give yourself plenty of room to maneuver.
• Don’t tailgate other cars, pass on shoulders, fail to yield, run stoplights or stop signs (even if no one else seems to be around), or break any other rules of the road on purpose.
• Don’t play your car stereo so loudly you are unable to hear train signals or emergency vehicle sirens.
• Don’t talk on your cell phone and drive at the same time.
• Don’t engage in other activities, while driving, that distract your attention or reduce your reaction time. Eating, changing clothes, or putting on makeup while driving is definitely dangerous.
• Don’t leave valuables in your car, especially in unfamiliar places.

Memorize and comply with all of these, and you’d never have to worry about road accidents anymore. The more you know, the less chances of you getting involved in a dangerous situation.

Speaking of dos, you’d definitely want to avail a full-pledged service that has nothing but your best interest in mind. With that being said, nothing beats Cebuana Lhuillier’s AutoCARE Insurance, a Standard Comprehensive Car Insurance that covers Own Damage (OD), Theft, Loss and/or Damage. Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Here we are again. It’s the start of a new year and you’re hoping to improve your financial habits. You might be thinking, “Well, I have my New Year’s resolution to help me out on that.” That would have been a great mindset, if it weren’t for the fact that (according to a recent worldwide study) 92% of people who formulate their New Year’s resolutions usually fail to implement it within the first 3-6 months. Ouch! That’s a large percentage to keep in mind, and you might even be wondering now whether you’re part of that big number or you’re just one of the few (around 8%) who manage to stick to their resolutions until the end of the year. Well, worry no more, as we had enumerated a few effective ways to save money this 2018:

1. Set up a separate fund for emergencies.

First things first, always remember that there are always unforeseen circumstances. They occur when you least expect it, thus leaving you with unexpected fees and expenses. Storms and road accidents are a perfect example of this. In such case, you should set aside a separate fund for emergencies. If you happen to accomplish this, not only would you be prepared enough for any sudden occurrences, but you would also avoid touching your savings in the long run. It is important to remember that an emergency fund should have enough to cover four to seven months’ worth of expenses. Experts recommend starting your fund with small goals, such as saving small amounts first, and then accumulating it as time flies.

2. Take note of your spending.

Be mindful of where you spend your money. Which is expensive? Which is affordable? You would be able to answer these and make adjustments along the way. Just always remember that your money doesn’t just disappear all by itself. If you happen to spend more than what’s needed, then it may very well be your own fault that you fell short from your budget. Speaking of which…

3. Make a budget list.

List down all of your expenses, your needs, your wants. Cut down on things which you don’t really need and focus on those which you would be using every day, like water and electricity. You don’t always need to sip in that expensive café, go for a cheaper alternative, like a ready-mix coffee or convenience store quick brew. The choice is yours, as long as you reduce your spending, practice the process of elimination and see your savings flourish along the way.

4. Take advantage of shopping promos.

There are countless ways to avail items without paying for the full price. Aside from the usual “sale” that they implement in malls during the holidays, you may also:

• Accumulate rewards by signing up for loyalty programs.
• Join a warehouse club and buy in bulk.
• Make use of shopping coupons.
• Plan your shopping/grocery trips during sales and holiday deals.
• Compare prices online.

And a lot more…

5. Make use of money-making/saving apps.

If you ever want to sell a few unused items at home, you may use an online buy and sell app to auction them off. You can also book a much cheaper restaurant or travel price via various discount apps. Feel free to discover via your local providers and networks and save a lot.

Be a master of your savings and hard-earned money with a trusted name that offers only the best service possible. If you’re a resident of Bacoor, Cavite, then the Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank is your one-stop spot for opening your own savings account. All transactions are real time, erasing all the hassles that you may experience in other establishments. So what are you waiting for? Visit the Cebuana Lhuillier Rural Bank now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Two of the country’s industry leaders, Cebuana Lhuillier and AXA, have joined forces with GIZ Philippines and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the introduction of a micro disaster risk insurance (MicroDRI) product especially intended for the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

MSMEs make up more than 95 percent of all industries in the Philippines, employ 65 percent of the labour force, and are a major source of government income through their tax payments. MSMEs have an economic value of 35.7 percent, of which small industries make up 20.5 percent of all goods and services produced.

Despite their huge contribution to the economy, MSMEs do not have enough protection due to the dearth of comprehensive insurance products for the sector.

This leaves MSMEs vulnerable to threats and damages brought by natural calamities, including typhoon, earthquakes, and even man-made large fires, all of which are detrimental to both the lives and business of entrepreneurs.

According to the latest GIZ study, 25 percent of MSMEs do not reopen once hit by a major disaster.

In 2009, following Typhoon Ondoy and Pepeng, damages cost MSMEs a total of $4.4 billion, about 2.7 percent of that year’s GDP.

To contribute in the financial stability of MSMEs, GIZ partnered with insurer AXA, microinsurance distributor Cebuana Lhuillier, and the Department of Trade and Industry. Aside from the micro DRI product, the collaboration will also focus on the provision of financial literacy training for entrepreneurs via the DTI business centers and the development of knowledge materials supporting the product.

GIZ Philippines has been at the forefront of implementing economic, ecological, and social development in the Philippines since 1970, through the assistance provided by the German government.

The latest assistance is a grant intended to fund the development of the MicroDRI product for MSMEs.

“Recently, a GIZ-led study on “Global Initiative on Disaster Management” found out that there is little protection available to MSMEs, which is long considered the foundation of the Philippine economy. When disasters strike, MSMEs lose between P250,000 to P10 million, making it particularly hard for them to recover. With the MicroDRI product, our goal is to come up with a financially-sustainable product that will provide the protection that these MSMEs need to ensure operations of their businesses. We are happy to work with our long-time collaborators on this project, and are hopeful that this will bring change to the MSME industry,” said Dr. Antonis Malagardis, program director of GIZ Philippines.

Serving as the gateway to reach across MSMEs is Cebuana Lhuillier, currently the country’s leading microinsurance distribution channel.

“Cebuana Lhuillier is proud to work with AXA, GIZ, and DTI on this milestone initiative. We are honoured to be given the opportunity to become a partner for change for many MSMEs and hope that through the MicroDRI product, we can help improve not only their businesses, but their lives as well. On its own, Cebuana Lhuillier has already covered up to eight million Filipinos or 30 percent of the 26.6 million Filipinos covered by some form of microinsurance and has served to be one of the leading contributors in the government’s push for microinsurance coverage,” Jean Henri Lhuillier, president and chief executive officer of Cebuana Lhuillier said.

The MicroDRI product under development will be formally launched and introduced to MSMEs through the assistance of DTI. AXA will design the micro SME insurance product and will serve as insurer of the product, which will then be made available to the public through Cebuana Lhuillier’s wide network.

You dream of starting up your own business and being the next successful tycoon. However, everyone needs to start somewhere. You already have a business format in mind, but you aren’t able to implement it yet, since you still lack the funds for even a dry opening. No worries, as we had enumerated a few practical ways for you to finance your own business:

1. Utilize your Credit Card.

This may have been mentioned first, but it is ranked lower in our list due to the fact that it is also a bit risky. If you ever fall behind on your payment, your credit score would take a hit, damaging your chances of ever getting any future loans. Be vigilant in using your card and never, even for a single month, miss out any payments in order to avoid blemishing your credit score

2. Borrow the amount from friends or family members.

It can never be embarrassing if your intentions are good. The thing about us Pinoys is that we have certain camaraderie, a fellowship that we have come to know as “Bayanihan.” Being helpful towards our friends or family member in need is one of our most common traits as a Filipino, and financing a startup business is a perfect example of such act. Of course, never forget to pay them back, or even give them a piece of your profit, so that you may avoid any grievances in lending after.

3. Try out crowdfunding.

Crowdfunding is the process of rallying people behind you in order to acquire the funds that you would need for your business or offered services. A particular website enables modern-day inventors and developers to showcase their ideas via videos and visual aids, thus, providing an opportunity for community engagement and funding on the needed capital. The more impressive your idea is, the more support that you will get from your potential patrons.

4. Utilize your own savings.

No pain, no gain. No sacrifice is ever unworthy of a great return in investments. Case in point, a startup business funded by your very own savings. We know, you might be keeping it aside for a car, a new cellphone, a house, etc. However, you should also consider the fact that once the business becomes a huge success, you would not only get back the amount that you had spent as a capital, but you would also get twice or thrice the amount that you had first invested. Now, that’s what we call a success story!

5. Get funded by an Angel Investor.

You might be wondering what this means. Basically, they are individuals who inject capital for startups in exchange for ownership equity or convertible debt. Some angel investors invest through crowdfunding platforms online or build angel investor networks to pool in capital. They may provide one-time investment to help the business propel or an ongoing injection of money to support and carry the company through its difficult early stages.

If these mentioned ways are not enough for your own liking, then we have got just the right thing for you. Get a jumpstart on your business venture with a trusted name that offers only the best service possible. Cebuana Lhuillier’s Lucky Loan is definitely your top choice. It is a multi-purpose loan offered to registered entities such as tricycle operators, credit cooperatives and other groups, as well as SMEs such as restaurant and mini groceries, among other businesses. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Twenty lucky Ka-Cebuanas from the United Arab Emirates won an all-expense paid trip to Georgia through Cebuana Lhuillier’s Year-End promo ‘Da Best Ka Winter 2017’, organized together with Tag 91.1, the leading Filipino radio station in the UAE. Cebuana Lhuillier clients from the UAE who sent money to their loved ones in the Philippines during the “Ber” months were qualified to join the promo.

During their 4-day, 3-night stay in Georgia, winners had a chance to visit tourist attractions such as the Old Tbilisi, Sulphur Baths, Rustaveli Avenue, Freedom Square, Peace Bridge, Narikala Fortress, Mtheska Cathedral, Annanuri Fortress, and Gudauri Ski Resort. Cebuana Lhuillier representatives and Tag 91.1’s disc jockeys Chickay and DJ Bob Kebab also joined the trip, as well as front liners from partner remittance centers like Al Ansari Exchange, Al Fardan Exchange, and Al Fuad Exchange.

It may sound repetitive, but protecting your finances is one main way of balancing your expenses. Not only would you be able to save up in the long run, but you would also be able to avoid any sudden expenses brought about by unforeseen circumstances. In such case, protecting both yourself and your automobile is a must, owing to the fact that road accidents may happen anywhere, any time. You may protect yourself on the road via traffic rules, but protecting your auto from a huge liable expense in the offset of an accident would be in the hands of a car insurance. You may ask, what are the key advantages of car insurance then? Here are just a few of them:

1. Protection from financial liability.

Believe us, you wouldn’t like to be in the receiving end of a huge damage expense. It’s bad enough that another driver would be involved in the accident (you’d have to pay for his/her medical bills), but it’s much worse to pay up for the other person’s damaged car as well, and that would be too costly. It’s always better to pay up than to be sued, but such is really a very budget-bending matter, so much that you will be glad that your car insurance would shoulder all of that for you.

2. Medical coverage.

If you think paying the other party damage fees is bad, just think about your own medical bills. Hospital bills in the country are at an all-time high, and continuous medication for your bruises incurred would just not be good for your savings. Know that a car insurance would not only cut your expenses, but may even shoulder your own medical needs as well.

3. In accordance with the law.

For those who are not familiar with it, the law states that car owners are required to have insurance. In such case, they would at least require liability insurance. Not being able to comply with this may result in you having to lose your license. Follow the law, be insured, and avoid any hassle on and off the road.

4. Repair and replacement coverage.

This is one of the main things that car insurances are known for, being able to shoulder damages in case of an accident. Hence, you would be able to avoid any expenses. The thing is, it would also depend on the exact coverage that you had availed and the severity of the accident itself. Nonetheless, you are still getting your money’s worth if you ever decide to avail a higher coverage.

5. Worry-free road trip.

Save yourself from all of the stress and worries of being on the road. Of course, you would still have to comply with the traffic rules for your own safety, but if ever you’d get involved in an accident due to the carelessness of other drivers, be sure that your car insurance would be there to look out for you and your expenses. Drive well and leave your worries behind.

Speaking of worry-free car insurance, you’d definitely go for a full-pledged service that has nothing but your best interest in mind. With that being said, nothing beats Cebuana Lhuillier’s AutoCARE Insurance, a Standard Comprehensive Car Insurance that covers Own Damage (OD), Theft, Loss and/or Damage. Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now to inquire – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Nothing better summarizes a life well-spent than that without debt. Just think about it. You have nothing to worry about when it comes to your finances: you would be able to save up for future expenses (both wants and needs), budget everything without any worry of overspending due to your unpaid balances, and even be able to plan for an upcoming vacation. The possibilities are endless. With these in mind, we had enumerated a few advantages of utilizing your own personal loan to better your life:

1. Pay off all of your debts.

We had mentioned about living a life without debt, but what exactly are these pending balances? To be specific, you may either have an interest rate that has been bothering you for a while or a nagging relative that isn’t too shy to let you know that you owe them, big time! Remember, it isn’t just about the exact amount that you owe a person or establishment for that matter, the accumulating penalty fees and interests rates are such a pain to handle that your personal loan may just be a lifesaver, in order for you to resolve your debts and be done with the penalty fees once and for all.

2. Buying a home.

We know what you’re thinking. Isn’t that supposed to be for housing loans, in particular? Yes, it may definitely well be. However, such implications would also mean that you are not allowed to use your personal loan to pay off other necessities. For example, you may also use your personal loan amount to buy a car. In such case, that is accomplished without specifically using an auto loan. When it comes to personal loans, you are free to utilize it in whatever way you want to.

3. Start a small business.

If you think that a personal loan is just one way to acquire money, why not multiply it further by starting up your own business. This would not only allow you to get further experiences off making a new type of livelihood, but it would also enrich and add plus points on your reputation, seeing that your lenders would agree with your life choices, and in turn make it easy for you to loan further amounts in the future. Money well-spent is more money well-earned.

When you’re hoping to acquire a personal loan, look no further than with Cebuana Lhuillier’s Happy Loan, a multi-purpose loan amounting to Php 5,000 offered to any individual who is employed, self-employed, student, or a remittance beneficiary. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time.

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More than eight million Filipinos are now covered by microinsurance through Cebuana Lhuillier. This accounts to 30 percent out of 26.6 million Filipinos covered by some form of microinsurance product, as shared by the Insurance Commission in the first quarter of 2017.

Cebuana Lhuillier, the country’s premier microfinancial solutions provider, has also managed to settle more than 180 million pesos in claims, providing every day Filipinos with financial security and protection during times of natural calamities and personal tragedies. As an intermediary, the company has become a key contributor of the government in ensuring all Filipinos have access to microinsurance if and when they need one. In fact, no other distribution channel in the country has achieved Cebuana Lhuillier’s wide market reach when it comes to microinsurance.

The company’s thrust to reach as many Filipinos as possible and educate them on the value of a microinsurance coverage is part of the 30-year old brand’s advocacy on financial inclusion.

“Cebuana Lhuillier firmly supports the government’s thrust for wider microinsurance penetration in line with its war against poverty. We are proud to be of help to the Insurance Commission reach its goal of having 60 to 70% of the population covered by microinsurance by 2020,” Cebuana Lhuillier president and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier said.

From a small pawnshop catering to families and workers in Pasay, Manila, the 30-year old pawnshop brand has evolved into a full-scale microfinancial services company, offering services as diverse as pawning, remittance, microloans and microinsurance.

“The allure of microinsurance is that it’s accessible to everyone. With low premiums, simplified requirements and faster pay-outs compared to traditional insurance plans, microinsurance allows Filipinos—particularly those in low-income and middle income segments—to have insurance coverage. We are honoured to be given the opportunity to serve the marginalized who are the most vulnerable to risks brought my calamities, illnesses or accidents,” Lhuillier adds.

Cebuana Lhuillier offers a wide-range of microinsurance solutions —from individual life and non-life insurance to group insurance for micro and small enterprises — are all affordable, easily available and within reach.

A top draw among individuals is the Alagang Cebuana Plus (ACP) Gold, a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged seven to 70 years old. For as low as 40 pesos for an insurance coverage valid for four months, plan holders are given access to the following benefits: life insurance, Accidental Death/Dismemberment & Disability (ADD&D), Fire Cash Assistance (FCA), and rider benefit for unprovoked murder and assault. Individuals attest to the value of this affordable investment, as the company has settled multiple claims in the past, peaking at most during the months of February to April where incidents of fire and conflagration is at its highest.

Aside from the ACP Gold, Cebuana Lhuillier has also insured fire fighters, supported workers from MSMEs, the informal sector including transport associations, and even students and their families from indigenous communities from far-flung municipalities throughout the Philippines.

Regardless on the profile of the clientele it serves, what is clear with Cebuana Lhuillier is its goal of further increasing the reach of its microinsurance business. It currently leads the call in disaster preparedness, in partnership with government agencies and NGOs, and advocates the importance of financial preparedness during times of calamities.

With more bullish programs in the horizon for 2018, Cebuana Lhuillier is on track to increase its current base to up to 10 million Filipinos covered by microinsurance in the next two years.

Cebuana Lhuillier’s microinsurance solutions are available in all of its 4,000 branches nationwide.

Cebuana Lhuillier and MoneyGram have continuously made it easier for Filipinos around the world to send money to their loved ones in the Philippines. Now the companies have extended their decade-long partnership.

The representatives of two noted brands recently met to sign the renewal of their long-standing partnership agreement for another five years. Cebuana Lhuillier, acting as a Super Agent, can send transactions from the Philippines to over 200 countries and territories through MoneyGram.  This also gives customers the convenience of receiving remittances sent via MoneyGram at any one of over 2,000 Cebuana Lhuillier branches nationwide.

Present during the recently-held MOA signing are (from L to R) Mr. Robert Shiroishi, Senior Legal Counsel, MoneyGram; Mr. Alex Lim, Country Manager, MoneyGram Philippines; Mr. Yogesh Sangle, Head of Asia Pacific, MoneyGram; Mr. Grant Lines, Chief Revenue Officer AMEAP, Russia and CIS, MoneyGram; Mr.W. Alexander Holmes, Chief Executive Officer, MoneyGram; Ambassador Philippe Jones Lhuillier, Chairman, Cebuana Lhuillier; Mr. Jean Henri Lhuillier, President & CEO, Cebuana Lhuillier; Mr. Philippe Andre Lhuillier, Senior Executive Vice President, Cebuana Lhuillier and Ms. Erlinda Sumanga, General Manager-OIC, Cebuana Lhuillier Services Corporation (CLSC).

Our beloved PUJ drivers are our everyday lifesavers. No taxi or app-based rides nearby? No worries, as our local jeepney drivers are here to the rescue. Depending on the route and distance, you would only have to pay a few amounts just to get to your destination, may it be work or school. In the perspective of a jeepney driver, every day is a rough day; imagine dealing with traffic, extreme heat, breakdowns at the side of the road, and long driving hours. And to think that there are far more worrisome things that can happen on the road. Accidents may strike without warning and our beloved Jeepney drivers are always on the frontlines. With all of that in mind, it would be appropriate to mention that a microinsurance service would be most needed by all PUJ drivers. You may ask, why? What would be the benefits if they were to avail one? Well, no need to look further, as we had enumerated a few of them:

1. It has a wide array of coverage involving accidents on the road.

We mentioned that accidents can happen with no warning, so it’s better to be prepared at all times. Accidental Death, Disablement & Dismemberment (ADD&D), and Permanent Total Disability (PTD) are just some of the prime results of a road accident, and believe it or not, they are all included in microinsurance coverage. Isn’t that amazing? Their families would never have to worry about the huge expense that comes after an accident, as microinsurance would handle those types of burden in the long run.

2. Get high benefits at a low premium.

Microinsurance was basically made for those who are earning below the average pay, hence is tailor-fitted to PUJ drivers who risk their lives on the road, yet earn only a few hundreds per day. With the low fee offered by microinsurance services, they would finally be able to invest in a service that is definitely worth every centavo of their hard-earned money, a service that cares.

3. A fair amount provided by the coverage itself.

We had mentioned a few of the coverage before, now; here are the amounts to be shouldered in the offset of an accident. Let us use Cebuana Lhuillier’s TODACARE as an example:

4. Easy and fast processing.

No one wants to wait in long lines. Again, let us focus on Cebuana Lhuillier, as not only do they offer low premiums, but they also made their services convenient to lessen the distress and hassle faced by Filipinos. Deciding to purchase policy insurance is made easy by visiting any Cebuana Lhuillier branch near you, submitting the documents needed and signing the necessary paper works. Now, how’s that for an easy process?

With all of that being said, why not go for a top, reliable service and microinsurance that only the best has to offer. TODACARE is a Group Personal Accident Insurance specially designed for transport group leaders, officers and members. It covers Accidental Death, Disablement & Dismemberment (ADD&D), Permanent Total Disability (PTD), Unprovoked Murder & Assault (UMA), Accident Medical Reimbursement (AMR), Burial Benefit (accident/sickness) and Accident Daily Hospital Income (DHI). Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Technology gave us many conveniences in the past few years. We were given social media, high-end cellphones, self-controlled cars, drone cameras, and even self-beautifying camera filters. Out of all these innovations, many were wondering if we can ever achieve wireless money remittance. After all, the advent of wireless bill payments is already a trending and well-accepted thing now. So why couldn’t money remittance get the same amount of ingenuity as well? Worry no more, as according to a recent study, the role of cellphones as a driving force in international money remittance is just getting its piece of the spotlight.

Here are just a few excerpts from the recent study. The results may amaze you:

The 2016 study from Juniper research states, “Over the past two years there’s been fast growth in international remittance due to the increase in the number of cross-border mobile services being implemented.

As more people transition into using mobile transfers more frequently and begin sending higher amounts globally, mobile remittance services will continue to diversify and evolve to offer more user-friendly solutions.”

In short, compatibility and reachability is enabling us all to use our mobile phones more freely than before, now entering the realm of finances and remittance. We should not even forget that there are many OFWs abroad; hence, it wouldn’t be surprising that there would indeed be an increase in the usage of mobile money remittances.

You might be thinking, okay, so are there any other reasons for international remittance to go mobile? Yes, there is. As a matter of fact, the Juniper research also states that,” Over 2 billion people worldwide are still unbanked, unable to save or borrow money from micro-finance or larger institutions due to the economic state of the countries they reside in or geographical location that puts them out of reach of many banking services, the question fueling the future of finance is how can the industry tap into servicing not only the current users but those who could substantially benefit from financial solutions?

The common link between current financial customers and potential consumers is a mobile phone. At present if you wish to send money via an offline method to some of the world’s most far flung and impoverished nations the process can be difficult not to mention slow.”

So, with mobile phones linking us all via social media, the same can be said for financial transactions, linking one family member to another. There are always safety measures to ensure that all our transactions are safe. With just a few years of progress, both the conditions of our personal information and remittances are no doubt, going to be in safer hands.(Source: https://blog.riamoneytransfer.com/role-mobile-playing-international-remittance/)

With all of that being said, why not get into the trend? Treat yourself to the convenience and hassle-free service that only the best has to offer. Cebuana Lhuillier introduces its Mobile App that will enable clients to use their mobile devices in availing Cebuana Lhuillier 24KOnline services like Appraisal Calculator, Renewal/Redemption, Rates Inquiry, Remittance Tracking and more. Download it now via Google Play!

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So you’ve already received your loan for your planned vacation. It’s easy to get excited and to immediately hop on the plane towards your destination; however, there are a few pointers that you should consider before leaving your home. Many vacationers and tourists make the critical mistake of not budgeting their travel funds, hence why they always end up shorthanded or with no extra cash left for souvenirs. With that being said, we had laid out a few do’s and don’ts when loaning money to fund your travels. You should be able to follow such tips as they are similar to the other basic travel tips that you may have come across already:

1. Be aware of international charges

Before you leave for your destination, be sure to check on fees that banks impose on credit card and debit card usage overseas. Remember, carrying huge amounts of cash isn’t necessarily practical, but paying for international charges is also an unwanted part of your expenditures. Also take note of the service fees, as establishments in other countries will surely have the liberty of asking for them, especially in tourist spots, where they typically view travelers and foreigners as rich and well-off travelers.

2. Check the conversion rates

There are always money changers stationed in the airports. Make sure to regularly check the currency conversion rates. It was once advised that “you might find a good deal of rates in malls compared to those money changers in the airport or your country of destination.” Of course, this would still depend on the country or location; nonetheless, make sure that you have money in the form of your destination’s currency.

3. You may choose a local sim card to avoid high call and text rates

Similar to the first pointer, international rates would always differ than that of the local rates that you’re used to. In such case, call and texts are no exception. Be wise in choosing whether or not you’ll still be using your country’s SIM, or just avail the SIM of your destination country. You can also ask about international roaming charges of our local cellular services as rates may be higher depending on the country of travel.

4. Plan your travel destinations ahead of time

When planning to go on a vacation, it is always wise to consider all of your expenses. This doesn’t mean you would just list down the cost of transportation, as even the place you would have to stay in (commonly known as accommodations) during your vacation would also add to your expenses, and the more exclusive the room is, the higher its price. Go for an accommodation that is near your exact vacation spot to avoid further travel cost.

When you’re hoping to get funds for your dream vacation, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Happy Loan, a multi-purpose loan amounting to Php 5,000, Php 10,000 or Php 15,000 offered to any individual who is employed, self-employed, student, or a remittance beneficiary. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time.

The year is almost over and you’re still trying to think of a good New Year’s Resolution. While majority of us would choose to watch our health and diet, there are some who are looking to develop their own financial growth. Earn more, save more, and spend less, that’s the key to obtaining a healthy savings account. In such case, you may be wondering, how may I accomplish this said financial growth? What are the specific things that I should do in order to achieve this? Well, look no further, as we had enumerated a few financial goals that you can focus on this coming 2018. Add these items to your New Year’s Resolution and be financially healthy all year long:

1. Plan your budget as early as now.

The economic blows we had this year had taught us a thing or two about proper spending, so it shouldn’t come as a shock that we still need to prepare for further financial concerns in the future. This should not be mistaken as being a pessimist, but rather being cautious and prepared with a well-planned budget. Emergency funds, savings, zero amounts of debts, and a layout of your spending next year should be included in the list. Having a clear roadmap of your expenses would provide you a guide on proper spending and efficient use of money.

2. Pay all your debts.

We mentioned zero amounts of debts in the previous count, goal, but we may need to emphasize the importance of being free from it by next year. You’d have more freedom to do the things that you want to do, without worrying about pending balances or overdue bills. Being debt free also saves you from the ever-dreaded obligation of paying interests. It may take some sacrifice to make it happen, but it is worth the effort. You should create a debt payment plan as early as now.

3. Start saving money now.

As a matter of fact, you should have begun at the beginning of this year. Just imagine if you had this same goal last year, saved up this year, then saved up again for next year, you would have been able to get a huge amount, enough for that grand cruise or vacation that you have been dreaming of. Do everything that you can to save, never overspend and always have your planned budget in mind (as mentioned in the first step). Keep in mind that your savings should be separate from your emergency fund. Savings should not be touched, while an emergency fund should be readily spent in case of unforeseen expenditures.

After following our tips, you may still find yourself having trouble within the first few weeks, but it’s normal, as with other routines being practiced at first. With that in mind, you may want to provide cushion to your starter budget in the first month of the New Year. No worries as Cebuana Lhuillier has got you covered. With their Micro-Loan Services, reaching out for assistance is never a hassle, due to their simple application process, easy terms, and fewer requirements, cutting long lines and long waiting time. With a network of over 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence, you are given unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Their five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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It’s hard to make a living nowadays. The income is low, job opportunities are low, and the prices are high. When you’re barely making it every month, you know that there is definitely something wrong with your financial stature. Yes, we are all aware of this common phenomenon among the majority of hard workers within the country, but awareness isn’t enough to make up for the whole situation. Proper action and immediate planning should be done in order to surpass the hardships brought about by these financial concerns. Let us understand them one by one and know the solution in addressing such concerns:

By knowing what the problem is, we are better equipped with what information to look for when addressing them.

1. You have little to no savings at all.

When you’re barely making it, you know that you either a) have just the right amount to pay for everything, or are b) earning less than that of your financial obligations. You are faced with a dilemma to either go look for an alternate job or cut down on your expenses. It would be tough trying to decide which to choose, however, one solution surpasses these options:

Solution: Try to find an extra job. We’re not just talking about part time on weekdays, you can allot one day per weekend on family days while the other on your part time job. For a much modern perspective, you can even apply for freelance, just to have an extra earning for your savings and emergency funds.

2. No budget plan.

Neglecting a budget plan is like asking for a disaster waiting to happen. Aside from the fact that you would overspend, there would be nothing left as well from all of your savings, as a lack of proper budget may force you to touch your savings account in case of unforeseen expenses. A disorganized way of spending your monthly earnings would only leave you with nothing left, even after a year of hard work.

Solution: Be wise. As with all kinds of sports games, you must strategize in order to win. List down all of your expenses, and then, distribute your budget accordingly. This way, you would be able to determine whichever monthly expense needs to be cut, like cable bill for example. No point in having one if you can set up a cheap antenna for a much affordable entertainment. A well-planned spending brings about countless savings.

3. Depending on others to finance your expenses.

Simply put, relying on someone all the time is not a long-term solution. You can rely on your family, loved ones, or friends; yet, this isn’t a very good practice in the long run. You’re going to have lots of debts and are going to owe them a sense of gratitude. There is nothing wrong with that since it is a signature trait of ours, but anything in huge amounts is always hazardous.

Solution: As early as now, learn to rely on yourself. If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. Get a part time job or cut down on your expenses. These are just some of the most common solutions when it comes to financial needs. Know your limits, yet, do not limit your potential. Being independent is better than being on the receiving end of a big debt.

After reading through our tips and analysis, you may definitely want to choose a loaning service that would best be applicable to your needs, without all of the hassles. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Happy Loan, a multi-purpose loan amounting to Php 5,000, Php 10,000 or Php 15,000 offered to any individual who is employed, self-employed, student, or a remittance beneficiary. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time.

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Qualifying for a loan is tough, more so if it’s a business loan. To be more specific, the process may take a while if you haven’t set things straight, even before you pass your application. The lender may see a few holes in your requirements which could affect the outcome. Your vision of a great business may be great, but all of that would amount to nothing if your loan gets rejected. All the time and effort put into gathering the requirements wasted, just because you forgot to focus on some important factors along the way. With all of this being said, you should always remember the 5 C’s in qualifying for a business loan. Keeping these in mind would not only smoothen the process, but it may also provide the lender enough reason to grant you the well-needed fund for your dream venture:

1) Capacity

This would refer to your ability to repay the loan. Remember, the reason why it’s called a loan is because it is basically “borrowed,” so you would need to pay it back in a given amount of time. The lender is going to take a deeper look in your income, they’re going to evaluate your cash flow, whether or not it would be enough to at least provide you with the amount to pay them back on a monthly basis (per your agreement during the process). In short, your “capacity” to deliver what is written on the contract in a timely manner. This also refers to your credit history. They’re going to have a look at your past repayment history, both business and personal. Always indicate every possible source of repayment at your disposal.

2) Collateral

This is basically a form of penalty, just in case you fail to pay back the amount that you had borrowed. This may come in the form of buildings or equipment owned by your small business or by you personally, including your home, car, appliances, etc. Collateral may also include a guarantee by someone else that, just in case you wouldn’t be able to pay back the whole amount, the other person will. Take note that loan guarantees are more known by the other term, “co-signer.”

3) Capital

This refers to the preliminary investment that a business owner must provide, thus giving the lenders a glimpse of his vision and business strategy. It’s only appropriate to provide the lenders an assurance that you will be putting the amount to good use, before they even consider making a business loan. The loan officer will evaluate the amount that the business owner has to offer.

4) Conditions

This is defined as the “overall economic climate and external environment surrounding the bank and the business firm.” If the current economy is at an all-time low, it would be difficult for the borrower to pay back the amount, while at the same time make it difficult for the lender to come up with the amount to be loaned. Conditions may also refer to “the intended purpose of the loan.” Is it for equipment? Is it for supplies used for the business itself? Feel free to provide the complete details to the lender.

5) Character

Are you trustworthy enough to handle the lender’s money? What is your current reputation in the industry? Yes, this may be subjective, but your character would determine the type of business owner you are. If you are found to not handle your past finances and transactions well, the loaning officer may reject your application, seeing that you did not honor past transactions smoothly. The opposite happens if they see you as responsible and reliable business owner. Remember, respect begets respect. The honor that you bring towards your business partners and lenders would be a main motivator for your future transactions and ventures.

After learning the 5 C’s, get a jumpstart on your business venture with a trusted name that offers only the best service possible. Cebuana Lhuillier’s Lucky Loan is definitely your top choice. It is a multi-purpose loan offered to registered entities such as tricycle operators, credit cooperatives and other groups, as well as SMEs such as restaurant and mini groceries, among other businesses. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

Image Source: https://www.salmon.com/media/uploads/2017/10/20/partnership_2.jpg

Personal loans are more flexible than any other types of loans, in the sense that they provide you with more options on where you’re going to use them on. Of course, you may already have a goal in mind even before you got the loan amount, since this would be one of the main questions asked by the lender. In some cases, this question wouldn’t be even asked; instead, the concern of you being able to pay back on time would be the focus of their inquiry. This would leave you with more time to decide on where you’re going to use your personal loan on. Just in case you haven’t made up your mind, we enumerated a few important ones for you to consider along the way:

1. To pay off your immediate debts.

Yes, we know, it’s a bit discouraging to apply for an amount that you’re just going to use for unpaid bills and other financial obligations, but consider this: immediate debts are much more unforgiving than those which you can pay off in installments, such as a loan. This would give you a much-needed cushion to set your budget straight and earn more to pay for everything else. If you have credit card debts, you would definitely need a personal loan to pay off, so as to avoid ruining your credit score and history.

2. To be used on a much-needed purchase.

This isn’t limited to cars, as gadgets and clothing are also a part of the purchase list. If you need to treat yourself to a few great items, it may be too tasking to rely on your salary and savings alone, so you must turn to a personal loan to lighten up the load. Take note that you should only avail things which you truly need. You may purchase a new smartphone as your old one gave up on you, or you’re hoping to fill your wardrobe as your recent attires are beginning to fade and amass holes on them.

3. Go on a well-deserved vacation.

Everyone needs to relax sometimes. If your stress levels are reaching a new high, then your personal loan may help fund your dream vacation. Go on a cruise or enjoy the white sandy beaches of a nearby island. The best thing about this option is that you can strategize well, in order to avoid spending all of the amounts from your loan. Vacation packages are more affordable, and you’d even have leftovers from your account, just enough for a few souvenir shopping before taking the return trip.

With all of that being said, you may definitely want a loan service that would best be applicable to your needs, without all of the hassles. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Happy Loan, a multi-purpose loan amounting to Php 5,000, Php 10,000 or Php 15,000 offered to any individual who is employed, self-employed, student, or a remittance beneficiary. Our network of more than 2,200 Cebuana Lhuillier branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time.

So, you finally saved enough to buy a new car. You’re probably thinking, “Well, I can purchase any car I want. As long as it’s brand new and has the best review, I can definitely give myself a great ride.” It sounds too easy at this point, only to find out after a few months that you had left off a few important factors along the way. Now you’re wondering, “What went wrong?” Well, to be fair, there is always a first time for everything. There are learnings and reminders that you’d need to accomplish in order to get a great deal out of a car purchase. With this in mind, we had enumerated a few pointers to consider before, during, and after purchasing a car. These factors would greatly help in terms of finding the right deal and right amount for owning a ride.

1. Before: Do an extensive research on car brands and current prices.

As with all types of purchases, learn to compare prices. Yes, acquiring a car with a well-known brand may be an easy takeaway, but be sure that the brand isn’t the only reason that you’ll be buying a car. Remember that different brands offer various features and functionalities in their cars. Find a ride that will provide you with the best functionality and price. Expensive doesn’t always translate to efficient; consider mileage and wear and tear when looking to buy a car.

2. During: Don’t buy the deal, buy the vehicle.

Remember when we said that expensive doesn’t always translate to efficient? It can also go both ways, meaning that cheap doesn’t always translate to better deals as well. Always ask the question,” What am I going to use the car for?” This will help you a lot in distinguishing which ride/car brand and model would best serve you in the long run. Also consider the frequency of use. How often will you be using the ride? If a dealer offers a cheap promo, try to look for holes within the sales talk. Why are they offering it at a low price? There are always reasons behind every business decisions, and a promo product may be hiding a deficiency in its very own system. Low price and promo may save you a lot at the beginning, only to spend a huge amount on future repairs and inappropriate mileage.

3. After: Insure your vehicle.

After purchasing a car, it would only be natural to take it out on a test drive. You should, however, register and apply for comprehensive car insurance first.  Accidents happen in an unexpected manner, and it exempts no one. Comprehensive insurance helps pay to replace or repair your vehicle if it’s stolen or damaged in an incident that’s not a collision. Comprehensive typically covers damage from fire, vandalism or falling objects. Be protected at all times and avoid the hassle of future expenses, after all, you already paid enough for the car purchase itself, so why shoulder the headache of high repair price then?

Speaking of car insurance, you’d definitely go for a full-pledged service that has nothing but your best interest in mind. With that being said, nothing beats Cebuana Lhuillier’s AutoCARE Insurance, a Standard Comprehensive Car Insurance that covers Own Damage (OD), Theft, Loss and/or Damage. Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

It’s really tempting to avail of well-advertised items, especially if they’re offered at a lower price. However, not everything you see on T.V. or social media ads is really a necessity, which in turn, would only be a regretful purchase. When you are on a tight budget, you would require great self-control when it comes to spending. Most of all, you would also do your best to avoid spending your hard-earned savings. With that in mind, it would be necessary for you to follow a few important tips in order to avoid touching your savings account. Trust us; it’ll help a lot in the long run.

1. Create a separate fund for emergencies.

Make a habit of separating your emergency funds from your savings. The thing is, emergencies are sudden and unexpected. Hence, you should always be prepared. Even if you aren’t earning that much, the fact that you have the responsibility and ability to control your funds only shows that you can dictate where your money will be spent on. Car repairs, hospital bills, supplies, are just a few examples of emergency expenditures that you’d have to prepare for. They are definitely in contrast to casual purchases such as gadgets and clothes, which is why you should separate and organize them from the former.

2. Switch to cash only.

Switching to cash would enable you to gain self-control, in the sense that you do not always have to pay with your debit card, meaning that you are not going to be able to spend from your savings account. Yes, you would still need to withdraw for your daily necessities, but having a certain amount in mind whenever you withdraw would at least leave a few in your account, rather than having all of them ready for spending.

3. Forget that your savings account exists.

This may sound weird, but the best way to save money is to forget that you even have a savings account. It’s a way of surprising yourself in the end. Just imagine, tipping in a few amounts every once in a while, forgetting that you have a piggy bank, and then, just when you thought you have run out of cash, you suddenly find that piggy bank again, full and heavy.

4. Adjusting your budget.

If you find yourself taking a bite out of your savings every now and then, this is a sign that there is something inconsistent with your routine. You may need to adjust your spending in order to make up for the other expenditures. Do it the old-fashioned way, list down all of your expenses and then organize which amount goes to which expense, whatever is left, throw it in your savings account. If you happen to be spending too much on food that you can’t even finish, then adjust the amount that you’re going to purchase. When your monthly adjustments add up, you’ll be surprised at how big you had saved at the end of the year.

5. Find an additional income.

You may need to find an extra source of income, just in case your current job only provides the exact amount of earnings monthly. The thing is, you wouldn’t be able to save if your cash flow only entails you to make both ends meet, thus resulting to a possible deduction from your savings, in case of emergencies which would raise your expenses in the long run.

6. Compare prices when making major purchases.

Be a wise consumer. Yes, a well-known brand would provide you with high quality, but remember that there are always affordable alternatives which could provide the same durability and functionality that an expressive brand can offer. “Canvassing” is a common trend among Filipinos, in the sense that they always tend to look for a lower price. Keep your eyes open for promos and package deals. This way, you would be able to save more and spend less, leaving your savings account untouched in the process.

7. Save what you have left over.

Choose to save whatever you can spare. This means that you may set a certain amount in your savings account at the end of the month, and save anything above that amount. Feel free to experiment on this process, get a feel of what works best, and then, go for the specific amount that you would be able to save per month. This would help your funds grow, rather than deteriorate in the long run.

With all of these in mind, you finally decide to open a separate account for your savings; however, you still haven’t chosen which bank to apply for, as each has their pros and cons. No need to worry. If you are in Cavite or Batangas, Cebuana Lhuillier has rural banks that cater to all of your needed transactions, including loans and deposits. All transactions are real time, erasing all the hassles that you may experience in other establishments. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier Bank branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Home is where the heart is. It is where we seek refuge from the harsh conditions of weather and other external dangers. In such case, it would only be fair for us to protect our homes, the same way that it protects us. While we are oriented in the usual activities of cleaning up and fixing broken parts of our home, there is one aspect that we should never forget in the long run – safety. To be more specific, safety against fire and other related incidents. In the first quarter of this year alone (January to March 2017), there were already 1,217 reported cases of fire incidents. Seeing that it is such a big number (and counting), it would only be right to have a few fire prevention tips in mind. Here are 7 of the most vital ones you may need to remember at all cost:

1. Be sure to monitor your cooking.

Don’t just leave your stove unattended. You may be a great chef, but it would all amount to nothing if you leave your food to burn, and that’s not even the worst case scenario yet. A stove left to burn on its own is a disaster and a house fire waiting to happen. Avoid kitchen fire by staying in the kitchen while frying, grilling or broiling food. If you really need to get out of the kitchen (to go to the comfort room, for example), then turn off the stove and continue the cooking when you get back.

2. Regularly check your LPG tank.

Still a task to be done in the kitchen, apply soapy water to the outer surface of your LPG. If a certain part seems to bubble up more than the other surface, then you may have a gas leak. Immediately contact your supplier to replace it. Make sure that the hose and regulator (the one you twist to turn on the gas) are securely fitted to the cylinder valve. It is recommended that you replace the hose every two years and the regulator every five years, just to be sure.

3. Keep lit candles away from clothing and other flammable objects.

One of the basic things we were thought in elementary was to specifically keep lit candles away from nylon cloths (since it easily catches fire). To be 100% safe, keep all objects away from a lit candle, no exceptions. Nylon or not, any piece of cloth like a curtain or a piece of tissue paper can definitely cause big problems when it catches fire. If you really want to be technical, keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn.

4. Do not leave electric cookers unattended.

The advent of technology brought us many cooking utensils and gadgets that are now powered by electricity instead of the usual LPG. In such case, the same amount of caution should be applied when using one. Whenever you’re using a coffee maker, toaster, rice cooker, electric cooker, etc. always make sure to never leave it working on its own. You should monitor the whole cooking process, and then unplug the appliance thereafter. Using these types of appliances may pose double risk, since their heat (when unregulated or left unattended) may cause fire, even then, a sudden surge of electricity may also yield the same disastrous result.

5. Do not plug all your appliances in a single extension.

You should avoid electrical overloading. Most of us would use extensions so we may utilize several devices and appliances at the same time, however, this may cause that particular extension to overload and overheat, resulting an unwanted spark.

6. Unplug appliances and chargers when not in use.

Not only will you be able to avoid overcharging your cellphone, it would also save you a lot in the electricity bills. The same goes for your television, computer, and other gadgets. Save money, save your life.

7. Have smoke alarms installed in your home.

While we could all agree that most fire incidents happen due to negligence and carelessness, we couldn’t ignore the fact that some are also accidental. Having a smoke alarm would immediately let you know that a fire broke out, even if you haven’t smelled the smoke yet (due to you being in a separate room, perhaps?). Not only would it help you rinse out a small fire with an extinguisher, if things get worst, you would at least still be able to get out of the house if it becomes uncontrollable, saving your life in the process.

Speaking of safety, what better way to protect both you and the interest of your home than with a a full-pledged service that has nothing but your comfort and protection in mind? With that being said, nothing beats Cebuana Lhuillier’s HomeCARE Insurance, a very affordable Residential Fire Insurance coverage. It 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. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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The Internet opened many possibilities for the average Filipino to make and earn a living. The prevalence of online businesses has become a trend, especially in the recent years. Whether it’s on a blog or on social media, online buying and selling has become a great part of our online community. You may try to search for a keyword on social media, and there will definitely be someone nearby or from the neighboring cities that would be selling that particular item you are looking for. This isn’t limited to bags and apparels, as gadgets and even affordable personal computers have become commodities that are now being sold online. Now, you may wonder if transactions made online are safe. You may be motivated by these online sellers and think of starting your own. How safe are you as an online seller from individuals that have wrongful thoughts in mind? Well, worry no more, as here are a few tips to minimize your risk as an online seller:

Secure the payment process.

The thing about online businesses is that the payment method pretty much varies from traditional in-store transactions. You post the products on a website or social media page. An interested buyer will message you to inquire about the product and then make an order. You then send them the item through a third-party courier while they send you their payment either via bank deposit or money transfer. Simple enough, right? However, you can’t really grasp the real intention of the buyer as you’re just transacting online. Are they honest customers or scammers who are out for an easy score? There is a technique to avoid a potential scam. Confirm the payment first before sending the item to the customer. If they’re going to deposit the payment via your bank account, take time to check your balance and see if the amount was already credited into your account. If they’re going to pay via money transfer, ask for the control number and immediately pick up the payment. Once received, only then should you send the item to the customer.

Never give too much information on your store page.

This is one of the most basic things to remember when being a seller, let alone being an online seller. It is acceptable to post your name and contact number within your product advertisement. However, you don’t have to post your bank details upfront (if the payment method is through bank deposit). You may just give it to them via private message or text message once the customer confirms that they are indeed going to make a purchase. Not only would you reduce the risk of making your bank details public, but it would also protect you from scammers who are frisking online accounts for other malicious transactions.

Select a safe meet-up point.

Don’t get confused, yes, there are online sellers who prefer meet-ups when it comes to the exchange of payment and the ordered item. It may sacrifice a bit of your convenience as the seller, since it would involve travel (and possibly traffic), but this would add points to your credibility – showing your customers that you, as a seller is willing to meet them face-to-face to show them the item (and assure that there is no damage on the product and that it perfectly works fine). It would also ensure that you get the payment immediately. Thus, no extra effort to check your bank balance or pick up by money transfer. With all this being said, choose a safe and public spot for the meet-up transaction. If you prefer a mall, choose a spot next to the entrance guards or roaming guards, so that scammers would need to think twice if ever they decide to mess with you.

Do a bit of profiling whenever possible.

There are times in which the interested buyer would transact via a social media messenger. This would allow you to check their profile and personal info. A profile which is only a week old and only has around 50 or less online friends would seem fishy. Be vigilant with these types of accounts as scammers love to transact using a faulty accounts, to hide themselves and their true intentions. Stay alert!

Get insured.

What better way to minimize your risk than with a very helpful insurance policy. Cebuana Lhuillier’s NegosyoCARE is a Personal and Property Insurance specifically designed for clients with micro, small (non-online), and/or medium enterprises or businesses. It covers property insurance, burglary and robbery, accidental death, permanent disablement and dismemberment, accident medical reimbursement (AMR), and money, securities, and payroll coverage. A pointer to remember would be that this coverage may not cover small-time online sellers; instead, it is much focused on bigger businesses that have higher risks of loss when unexpected circumstances would arise. With all of those coverages, you may never have to worry about someone ruining your business momentum, Cebuana Lhuillier has got your back.

So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now and inquire about our NegosyoCARE.

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When tough times come and they surely will, most people would have one thing in mind:

“Where can I get quick cash?”

For most folks, tough times refer to periods of economic hardship or a short-term need for additional cash. Whatever the extent or gravity of the financial need, the most important consideration is how one can find the right and fast solution.

Some approach loan sharks, although that is certainly dangerous.  Some reach out to their family or relatives for a handout.

Others opt to go to Cebuana Lhuillier, a company that has financially helped millions of Filipinos for many decades. Its traditional pawning and online pawning system has served and helped thousands of people in their times of need.

Traditional Pawning

Traditional pawning is essentially about taking your valuable possessions to the pawnshop, getting an appraisal, and receiving the corresponding amount in relation to your collateralized property.

At Cebuana Lhuillier, you can pawn both jewelry and non-jewelry items.  For jewelry, a person can pawn gold, silver or platinum jewelry items. Diamonds and high-end watches are also acceptable as collaterals. For non-jewelry, one can pawn gadgets such as a laptop, a tablet or a cellphone.

Traditional pawning with Cebuana Lhuillier is very fast and convenient. The process is easy to follow and receiving the money you need is totally hassle-free.

The first step to take is to visit the Cebuana Lhuillier branch nearest your home or place of work.  Once at the branch, approach the friendly staff and present the item that you want to pawn.  The expert pawnshop staff will inspect the item and will conduct an appraisal.  Once they are done with the appraisal, they will inform you about the appraised value and net proceeds that can be received.

The pawn shop staff will also request for your identification card. Government-issued IDs are the best forms of identification to present and use for the transaction.

If you agree to the terms, the staff will request you to sign the pawn ticket. After signing, you will be given the money that corresponds to the item that you pawned.

During renewal or redemption of the property that you pawned, all you need to do is to present the signed pawn ticket.

Another amazing feature of Cebuana Lhuillier’s service is called Renew Anywhere which allows a person to renew a loan without having to go to the original branch where the first transaction was made. Any Cebuana Lhuillier branch can process a loan renewal because of the company’s computerized database system.

Online Pawning – not yet available

While traditional pawning still works very well, living in the 21^st century has opened other avenues for people to receive financial help.  People who are too busy to visit a pawnshop, especially those who work nights and have no opportunity to go to Cebuana Lhuillier during operating hours, worry is absolutely unnecessary.

With online pawning, people can get the same level of service and satisfaction that Cebuana Lhuillier offers through its traditional pawning system.  Cebuana’s online pawning site is available to customers who prefer to transact online.

To use this online service, one simply needs to create an account with Cebuana Lhuillier.   With online pawning, one can take a photo of the jewelry or non-jewelry item to be pawned.  The photo of the item can be uploaded onto Cebuana Lhuillier’s secure website. The expert team of appraisers will review the photo and will give immediate feedback.  Once item is approved, Cebuana Lhuillier will send a notification to be followed by a cash deposit to the lendee’s bank account.

Indeed, whether you choose to do traditional pawning or opt online transactions, Cebuana Lhuillier has got you fully covered.  In just a few, simple and easy steps, you can get quick cash to help you.

Pawning items online is now possible with Cebuana Lhuillier, the country’s top lending and money remittance service.

If you’ve never tried online pawning, read this easy-to-follow guide.

All you need to remember is R-U-S-H.

R- egister online

Pawning online begins with creating an account with Cebuana Lhuillier.  The quick registration process will enable you to have an online account that you can use for all your pawning needs. Using a computer, laptop, phone, or gadget with a stable internet connection, you can use this to make fast and secure transactions.

The registration process includes providing Cebuana Lhuillier with your preferred username, password, and other important information such as your address.  The registration may also include providing your bank account number wherein the cash from pawning will be transferred to.

U – pload the photo

The next step involves taking a good photograph of the item you wish to pawn online and uploading it.  You can take a snapshot and upload on Cebuana Lhuillier’s website using your online account.

A team of expert appraisers will examine the photo ploaded. Once they make an initial approval based on their photo assessment, a schedule of item pickup will be arranged.

S- ubmit the item

Cebuana Lhuillier will deploy authorized couriers that could visit your home, office, or preferred address based on the agreed-upon date, time, and location.  These couriers will be responsible in handling the items to be pawned.

Once you meet with the authorized couriers, you need to turn over the item you wish to pawn.  The couriers will securely transport the item. The appraisers will conduct another evaluation, this time, by actually inspecting the item to be pawned.

If approved, you will be promptly notified and the corresponding amount will be deposited to your bank account.  There are also other convenient payout options available aside from making the bank deposit.

H- ead to your bank

The last step is to head to your bank or its automated teller machine to withdraw the cash.  Cebuana Lhuillier will deposit the cash to the bank using the account number and other related details you have provided during the online registration process.

Indeed, pawning items online has become a preferred way of getting quick cash for thousands. People from all walks of life have found Cebuana Lhuillier’s online pawning system quick and convenient.

In the past, one had to travel and go to the actual pawnshop to pawn jewelry and non-jewelry items.  This means taking time out from your day and physically bring the items to the pawnshop.

With the online pawning system of Cebuana Lhuillier, you get to save both time and money since the transactions can be done anywhere, anytime.  This transactions is also more secure since you no longer have to physically carry these valuable items all the way to the pawnshop. Cebuana Lhuillier’s authorized couriers can do that for you.

The best part is — online pawning can actually bring you higher appraisals. Using the power of internet and communications technology, Cebuana Lhuillier can make its services more accessible, safe, secure, and convenient at a much lower overhead.

While going to a brick-and-mortar branch of Cebuana Lhuillier is still a good option, having the means to transact online is truly a bonus.  Pawning items online is a flexible way of obtaining quick cash without any hassles.  This is especially beneficial to people who work during the night and have no opportunity to go to the pawnshop during normal daytime operating hours.

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Expanding a business is always a challenge even for the most passionate entrepreneur. While one can have boundless commitment to the business, financial capital may be short to start the expansion. Sometimes, limited financing also prevents entrepreneurs from hiring much-needed staff to ramp up production or pave way for upgrades demanded by customers or clients.

However, entrepreneurs with their mindset focused on growth are not afraid of financing challenges. One such entrepreneur is a young lady named Celine who was fresh out of college and had a dream of putting up her own pastry business. With nothing but her dream and a capital of Php 1,000, she mustered enough courage to start her journey as an entrepreneur. After buying the materials needed from a local supplier, she went back to her small home kitchen to work on her baked creations.

After fourteen months of patience and hardwork, her pastries are now being sold in several malls and bazaars across the city.  With her daily sales ranging from Php 2,500 to Php 8,000, orders for her products are definitely getting larger by the day.

How did she do it? How did this young entrepreneur expand her business from her small kitchen to upscale malls and restaurants in just a little over a year of doing business? What did she do to convert her passion for baking and Php 1,000 capital to produce a three or four-fold profit?

After meeting with a purchaser from a high-end restaurant, she dealt with the challenge of making more pastries than what she was accustomed to.  During the early months of the business, it was really a one-person job. Celine did all the work – from buying the materials, to baking the pastries, up to the marketing and distribution of her products. When her pastries became a big hit, she knew she had to expand her production and her business, as a whole.

With her parent’s financial support, she was able to buy more materials and ingredients needed for her pastry business. However, this was not enough to expand her business to the scale she deemed fit.

In one of her delivery runs, she saw a pawnshop and money remittance shop that had a sign saying, “Lucky Loans.”  The staff of the pawnshop explained the basics of making a loan amounting from Php 20,000 to as high as Php 150,000. Armed with this information, she excitedly prepared all the requirements to make a loan for her much-needed expansion capital.

The money she got from loan allowed her to hire more staff and upgrade her products’ packaging. She was also able to buy more ingredients, making the increase in her production volume possible.

Finally, Celine was able to meet the delivery quotas requested by the high-end restaurant. Satisfied customers and their reviews of her products made Celine’s pastries popular. Not too long after, she was making deliveries in other restaurants who needed delicious pastries as desserts.  With her “Lucky Loans,” Celine was able to elevate her business beyond what she had earlier dreamed of.

To learn more about financing to expand your business, click on www.cebuanalhuliier.com for more information.

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As an OFW, a modern hero of the Filipino society, you are entitled to honor your family by providing all of their needs and wants. You sacrifice homesickness for the sake of giving them a better life, even risking your own health at times, just to work countless hours for extra pay. In spite of all these hardships, your fatigue is dissolved and your energy is rejuvenated every time you hear their cheerful thanks, due to your recent money remittances towards the Philippines. Money transactions may look simple and totally risk-free. However, you must also be aware that there are people who do not have your best interest at heart. In this case, you must always be careful and knowledgeable when it comes to money remittances. Here are just a few factors to consider when sending money to your loved ones in the Philippines:

1. Avoid sending money through postal service.

Never go for a very outdated procedure, just to save on service fees. Depending on the remittance agent, the fee may range from two to three digits. Nonetheless, some would prefer to send their financials via post or snail mail in order to save. It is unsafe and should be avoided at all cost, not to mention, takes a much longer time to reach your loved ones.

2. Put into consideration the foreign exchange rates before every transaction.

Always remember that the amount you’re sending would equal to a much bigger amount when it reaches the local remittance outlets, however, you must also time your transactions, in terms of following the foreign exchange values. A dollar that amounts to 49 Pesos today may be equal to 45 Pesos tomorrow. Study the ever-changing patterns to ensure that your loved ones back in the Philippines would receive a much bigger value.

3. Use technology at your advantage.

You may now transfer money using just your smartphone (of course, you got to have a wi-fi or data connection). There are certain apps that allow you send money with just a few clicks. Avoid long lines and send the amount on time.

4. Choose a well-known remittance center.

Some remittance center offers a low service charge for the transaction, but holds the risk of a non-secured transaction. It is much better to deal with a reputable agent to avoid any hassles or possible scam in the long run. Your loved ones would be waiting for your money transfers, ensure that they would receive it and not some unknown stranger.

Speaking of well-known remittance centers, you are 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 more than 2,200 branches nationwide and accredited international partners, this money transfer service is made available to clients within and outside the Philippines. Transactions are real time, which enables clients to claim the money as soon as the sender completes the sending process in the branch. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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You are well versed in pawning off your preloved items and gadgets. You have done it on multiple occasions and are urging to do it again, just to gain a little extra in your savings. One question crosses your mind, how do pawnshops determine the value of the items I pawn off? Surely, it isn’t just the size and weight of the jewelry; of course it’s much more complicated than that. Before you even spend a minute or so researching online regarding this, allow us to enumerate a few important factors that would answer your question. Some of them may even surprise you:

1. Experience

Believe it or not, pawning is a type of profession that you can master by fully immersing yourself in the deal. Pawnbrokers must be knowledgeable about prices in order to be good at their job, and experience is a huge part of this process. They must know the current values of products that are regularly brought into the shop, such as jewelry, gadgets, and even musical instruments. Knowing all of this, they can determine how much they’ll be able to pay you in return for the item being surrendered.

2. Expert Opinions

Another interesting thing to know is that there is more than one type of pawnbroker. Yes, you’ve read that right. Those that can be found in the usual pawnshops specialize in determining the price of gadgets, jewelries, etc. On the other hand, there are those who can distinguish the price of other vintage items, like cars, paintings and firearms. Not all shops can specialize in these items, so sometimes pawnbrokers will reach out to those that do. Think of it as a network of pawnbrokers, sharing their thoughts and knowledge on various categories of items.

3. Online Resources

Technology really has its perks. When you’re not familiar with a certain term, you immediately search it on the internet, curious to find out its meaning. The same goes for pawnbrokers, who (at certain times) use online resources such as Craigslist, eBay and even Amazon to help find information on the market of the item. This is common with rare books, stamps, and prints. By doing an advanced search on one of these sites and looking at multiple pages of results, pawnshops can easily get the information they need to properly price an item. Think of it as their extra measure in ensuring that you get a fair price on the item that you’d pawn.

4. Sentimental Value

This isn’t limited to your typical story of – “My grandmother gave it to me, hence, it has a significant value.” This would refer to items which have a particular add-on that made them stand out from the ordinary. For example, an old novel would sell with a decent price as long as it’s still in mint condition, and definitely still readable. On the other hand, if it was signed by its famous author, the price would be higher than the usual, even surpassing its original store price, depending on its rareness and present condition.

With all of that being said, you may be looking for a pawn shop that would provide you with the most honest 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 2,200 branches nationwide. Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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So you finally get a chance to purchase your own ride. After countless months or years of saving up, you now have your own sleek car, complete with a flashy paint job and a classy interior. It’s all well and good, until you realize that the road isn’t always a safe place. You decide to avail of insurance for your car, just in case, but are surprised to find out that the very first establishment that you had gone to sells their car insurance at a steep price, so what do you do? Worry no more, as we had enumerated a few ways for you to lower your car insurance cost:

1. Visit more than one insurance outlet.

The thing about being a consumer is that you have the free will to choose whichever product or service that you would like to avail. This is of course not limited to car insurances. Take time to “canvass,” ask and shop around through various establishments. You would be surprised to find that others are willing to offer their insurance packages for a much lower price. As a consumer, never be afraid to ask for the cost, it’s your money on the line, after all.

2. Pre-purchase factor: A car’s price also affects insurance cost.

You’ve read that right. Car insurance premiums are based in part on the car’s price, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft.

3. Never be too shy to ask for higher deductibles.

Deductibles are basically what you pay before your insurance policy comes into effect. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your insurance costs significantly. This is much like a domino effect, for example, increasing your deductible could reduce your collision and comprehensive coverage cost by a few percentages, enough to save you a noticeable amount. It’s important to note though that before you choose a higher deductible, be sure you have enough money set aside to pay if you have a claim.

4. Consider deducting coverage on an older model.

In this case, you may try dropping collision or comprehensive coverages on older cars. If your car is worth less than 10 times the premium, purchasing the coverage may not be cost effective. Make sure to coordinate with your auto dealers and banks so they may let you know of the car’s worth and the other underlying amounts.

5. Buy your homeowners and auto coverage from the same insurer.

Think of this as a package deal. Buying multiple coverages from the same insurer may bring about discounts on your purchase, as with the case of all bulk orders. Aside from this, it would also be much easier to process the coverages, owing to the fact that you had already provided the requirements, all in one go, compared to having to submit the same requirements twice when coordinating with two different insurers.

6. Maintain a good credit record.

Believe it or not, your credit history can also affect your insurance costs. Some insurers use credit information to price auto insurance policies. Recent studies had indicated that people who effectively manage their credit have fewer claims. You may ask, how may I best maintain a good credit record? Simple, you just have to pay your bills on time, avoid obtaining more credit than you need, and keeping your credit balances as low as possible.

7. Try out for low mileage discounts.

If you’re only going through a short travel every day, then why not apply for this type of discount? Basically, some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive a lower than average number of miles per year. Low mileage discounts can also apply to drivers who car pool to work. This is most appropriate for those who drive just a few blocks towards work every day.

With all of these in mind, you are definitely ready to avail of your very own car insurance; however, you’re not sure where to purchase one. At Cebuana Lhuillier, we offer the AutoCARE Insurance, a Standard Comprehensive Car Insurance that covers Own Damage (OD), Theft, Loss and/or Damage. Excess Bodily Injury (EBI), Excess Property Damage (EPD), and Acts of God/Nature (AOG/AON). So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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Being a mom is tough. You’d have to take care of your kids, balance work and family, still have time to do the house chores in the weekend, take your toddlers out for a walk in your days off, etc. It’s definitely a handful and a tiring ordeal, but moms wouldn’t admit to that since they love what they’re doing. In such case, these tasks and obligations wouldn’t even begin until the baby has come out from their womb. Moms need to prepare for this, so they take a few months leave from work, just to condition themselves for child birth. This is what you would call a maternity leave. In relation to this, some moms would actually apply for and use their personal loan during this period. You may ask, how would a personal loan be of any help to them? Simply put, here are the ways:

1. During the months/weeks leading up to child birth.

The maternity fees aren’t limited to the day of the child birth itself. These fees would come in as early as few months or weeks before the said day, as moms would definitely need to go for checkups in order to check on the baby inside the womb. Basic things such as determining the gender of the baby and the expected level of safety when giving birth are to be answered as early as possible, as part of the whole preparation period.

2. During the day of child birth.

Alas, the maternity fees would just keep on coming. In such case, the approved personal loan would be of great help to pay off the hospital expenses, as even the act of giving birth would generate a huge bill, given the current economic situation.

3. Follow up checkups after child birth.

This isn’t really necessary, at least not for a certain amount of time after child birth. However, if the doctor would instruct for an early checkup period, then you may have to put aside budget for the doctor’s fee. Again, this would be a type of expense, made easier to pay off with the help of a personal loan.

4. Baby products

Maternity fees are not limited to hospital bills and checkup receipts. You may want to consider setting aside a few amount for toddler toys, baby dresses, chew toys, etc. Of course, don’t spoil your little angel too much; just get those which are definitely needed for your baby’s growth and well-being.

5. Add-on savings, with maternity leave pay.

If there are a few extras left from your personal loan, you may add that later on to your maternity leave pay, so that you may set aside a few amounts for other unforeseen expenses and maternity fees.

After reading through our tips, you would definitely want to choose a loaning service that would best be applicable to your needs, without all of the hassles. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Happy Loan, a multi-purpose loan amounting to Php 5,000 to Php 15,000 offered to any individual who is employed, self-employed, student, or a remittance beneficiary. Our network of more than 2,200 branches and online presence give customers unlimited access and utter convenience in applying for a loan. Our five-point application to disbursement process ensures services are delivered on time.

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The Philippine’s largest microfinancial institution,
Cebuana Lhuillier, through its international remittance arm, Cebuana Lhuillier Services Corporation (CLSC), hallmarks its decade-long partnership with Xpress Money, one of the most dependable money transfer brands in the world. Serving clients who are mostly overseas Filipino workers (OFW) based in the EMEA region, the two
companies have been partners in the remittance business since 2007.

To commemorate the milestone, the senior management of Xpress Money met with the Cebuana Lhuillier team during a business trip in the Philippines and discussed expanded partnership opportunities.

It is always a good thing to prepare for unforeseen circumstances. Expect the unexpected, they say, and you should definitely do that, especially as we live in a country commonly visited by storms and typhoons, which is only fitting that you should have a few amounts ready for the inevitable. In such case, you may want to set aside more than the usual amount, perhaps because you predict that the upcoming storms are larger than those which already came before. Or you predict that it may cause more damage, cause more people to be injured, and may even result in a diminished supply of food and water. The scary possibilities are endless at this point. You wouldn’t have to worry though, as we prepared 5 ways that would enable you to grow your emergency fund:

1. Determine how much fund you’ll need.

Set a specific goal. How much are you willing to save for a full-pledged emergency fund? Yes, it’s only natural for your goal to be based off income and expenses; however, always remember that a general rule of thumb is to save enough to cover four to seven months’ worth of expenses. You never long how long you’ll need to stretch on during the typhoon or hurricane, and having a lack of funds would make it difficult to survive during those trying times.

2. Keep your fund in a well-secured place.

It should be easily accessible, but not so easily accessible that you’ll be tempted to make withdrawals for everyday spending. Online banks are good locations for your emergency savings account because you can’t just walk into the bank and withdraw your cash. Consider keeping emergency funds in a combination of locations, including an online savings account, money market account and short-term CDs.

3. Treat it like a bill.

Since you’re paying monthly for water and electricity, why not consider your savings as a monthly routine as well. Establish and implement a monthly goal and make it part of your budget. Set up an automatic monthly transfer, just as you would with the electric bill or cable TV subscription, to ensure the money is saved each month.

4. Use it ONLY for emergencies.

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of self-control. Yes, it’s tempting to buy that new cellphone or flat screen TV, but think about it, even for a second, these things would be deemed useless once the power runs out due to an electric post getting thrown down by a hurricane, leaving you in a scramble to survive. Supplies and sanitary products would be more valuable at this point, and you wouldn’t want to be left in the dark with a low bat expensive phone and powerless flat.

5.Make it very realistic and natural.

Set your expectations at a realistic level. Don’t be afraid to start with a small amount of savings each month, but try to increase it whenever possible. Open a savings account and start building your emergency fund. Save whatever you can and you’ll be surprised at how much you had already saved in a month’s time.

When it comes to emergencies, you can never be too sure, so you must always be prepared. Property damage is a heavy burden to carry, but much heavier is it to carry injuries and its related expenses. As an employee, you would also be absent from work due to the injuries, hence your need to recover while missing many paid days of work. Worry no more, as here at Cebuana Lhuillier, we offer the EmployeeCARE, a Group Personal Accident Insurance specially designed for employees. It covers Accidental Death, Disablement & Dismemberment (ADD&D), Accidental Medical Cash Aid, Burial Benefit (Accident/Sickness), Unprovoked Murder & Assault (UMA), Motorcycling and Personal Liability. So what are you waiting for? Visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now to inquire – we assure a fast, easy and secure transaction.

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There are many ways to protect your business, whether you’re a small-time startup or a big time enterprise. The ever-changing economic growth brings countless possibilities and effects towards businesses nowadays that even owners and analysts are lost within the confusing numbers of profit and gain, in short, they are not able to predict whether their ventures would be going in the right path or otherwise, bringing in more risks than ever. With this in mind, it is only appropriate that you avail microinsurance for your own livelihood, in order to add that extra layer of protection to your investments. You may ask then, how can microinsurance help my SME venture in the long run? No worries, here are a few examples.

1. Microinsurance is a lot more affordable than any other types of insurance.

In spite of the fact that this would still depend on your skill to shop for a better deal and coverage, microinsurance is known to have lower cost than most insurances. This may be due to it being mainly offered to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises or Small and Medium-sized Businesses whose personnel numbers fall below certain limits.

2. Microinsurance provides alternatives for small-time and struggling businesses.

With the help of microinsurance, the poor can use their stocks and not the high valued collateral or land titles that they normally need to acquire money for their business. Gone are the days in which they’d have to sell their own land in order to gain capital for their ventures, or make up for its loss of profit.

3. Flexible use of money and investments.

Health is wealth, as they say, and the smaller the business is, the harder one should work in order to maintain and grow their income. However, if one were to fall ill due to fatigue and other factors, microinsurance would ensure that they can be provided with money for health, meaning the money meant for investment will not be channeled out for treatment and medication.

4. Venture into agricultural business.

Agriculture may be considered a risky business. However, other developing countries had developed what they call the weather index, a microinsurance variation purposely meant for farmers. With this variation, farmers can borrow money for either directly investing into their farms or any other initiative and settle the loan when their produce makes profits.

5. Microinsurance tackles property damages.

If your business involves a pretty little stall or an impressive four-corner spot, then chances are you may want to have it protected from uncontrollable forces of nature such as storms. Luckily, microinsurance includes property damages to their coverage, meaning that whatever destruction your business spot undergoes, you wouldn’t have to worry much about the repair expenses, as it is definitely part of the coverage.

6. Business microinsurance involves protection from burglary.

We commonly hear of news regarding crooks and thieves raiding small time businesses in order to get an easy score. Yes, it is a horrifying perspective into the safety of business men and their ventures, but one should not be too scared, for business microinsurance includes coverage against burglary and theft.

7. Some business microinsurance includes AMR (Accident Medical Reimbursement) coverage.

Commonly referred to as ‘AMR’, the Accident Medical Reimbursement is a way of ensuring that the financial impact of an accident is limited and the injured person can recover safe in the knowledge that his medical expenses are being taken care of. In such case, you would never have to worry about accidents happening during business hours, as this is included in your microinsurance coverage.

8. Microinsurance also covers accidental death.

Knock on wood, but if such were to occur within your business, microinsurance would ease up the expenses (especially as you’re running an SME) as this is definitely part of the premium/coverage. This is one part of the deal which no business owner would ever want to experience, whatsoever, but at least, it orients everyone about the possible risks expected in the job (depending on the type of business).

9. Dismemberment/ Permanent Disablement

As with accidental death, this is another type of situation that no business owner or employee would ever want to experience. In spite of that, this microinsurance feature must be set into place, to ensure that your employees would never have to fear about the insurmountable expense that goes with a high-risk job and probable cause of accident.

10. Business microinsurance features payroll coverage.

Basically, the usual process is: An employee authorizes his or her employer to deduct insurance premiums from his or her paycheck. The employer then sends the amount deducted on to the insurer periodically. As with the other work benefits, this would ensure that your employees would experience the fruit of their labor.

With all of that being said, you’re probably wondering where to find a microinsurance that consolidates all of the mentioned features. No need to look further, as with Cebuana Lhuiller’s NegosyoCARE, you are surely in the right hands. Identified as a Personal and Property Insurance specifically designed for clients with micro, small, and/or medium enterprises or businesses, it covers property insurance, burglary and robbery, accidental death, permanent disablement and dismemberment, accident medical remibursement (AMR), and money, securities, and payroll coverage. With all of that, you are greatly secured in your venture.

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