Writing is a passion that I always have. It's the Romeo to my Juliet's love for reading. It's a combination that I always enjoyed since I was young. And speaking is something quite similar as well. It's not just a passion but also something that I know I can naturally do. I'm not bragging or anything, but I am absolutely sure that if I have something to say, I'd say it. More so -- speaking in front a crowd. Funny thing that I don't get the usual jitters whenever I'd try to talk in front of an audience, although sometimes I'd feel a little sweaty but at the time that I would stand up and start to open my mouth, the platform or stage or wherever I'm standing feels like home. Weird, but I do have that kind of feeling. It's like -- you want to share a piece of yourself to your listeners and you're really trying your best to let them know what you want them to know. But unfortunately, that doesn't happen all the time. Some would say I sounded harsh, that I would comment straight to the point to even sound rude or get the tables upside down by making everyone laugh with my crazy humor. Whatever that is, at least I'm still able to get my points across right? XD
Anyway, as part of our group's special sessions, I was tasked to give another talk about Blogging 101 last 17th of April 2015. This time, with only the basics of the basics that I know. This of course made me excited since I would be able to share everyone what I know about blogging. Not that I was an expert since I'm probably still a newbie when ranked on the Blogosphere, but the fact that some people think I have the authority in this matter -- it simply made my heart jump for joy! Too much adjectives? Nah, just feeling happy with what I have accomplished! :)
OFSI Blogging 101 Session last April 17, 2015
Another group picture of future OFSI Bloggers
Oh yeah, they're listening to whatever that I was saying :P
"Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame." Song of Solomon 8:6
Who would have thought that I would be doing this PreNup Photoshoot part 2..tho technically speaking it is a Save-the-Date feature. Anyway they're the same for me, I categorized it under PreNup. XD
Now back to my story.. a friend of mine from SFC, sis Jaque (missyleeloo) has seen my shots from my cousin's (LINK HERE) and she liked it! Wow. That's a nice compliment for me. And of course I said Yes! So again, sis Rona (myjoywaterfall) who's in charge with the productions and I took this opportunity to practice our God-given talent once more (ahem). This was actually a late post since I sought permission from the couple first before posting it here and of course waiting for their official Save-the-Date announcement. By the way we took it last 23rd of January and I had edited all the pics below unless stated. Anyway..here it goes! =)
Edited image credit to: Jacque Gonzalez
Edited image credit to: Jaque Gonzales
I just love this shot.
Again, congrats to this lovely couple..and thank you for the trust to take your photos. =)
Finally after 4 long years, PinayDiaspora is now a dot com minus the blogspot name! Not that I'm not happy with blogger, which is still obviously my free web host, but the need to be independent (at least the URL part) seemed more appealing than before.
Thankfully though with the help of my fellow OFSI friend Ms. Georgia Lawas (www.lgeorgia.com), I am now the official owner of this URL link at USD33 (10KD) for 3 years. Thanks to GoDaddy and its cheap domain name registry. =) Hopefully though with this added feature, I would feel compelled to write more and update this baby more often. *crossesfingers*
Official email from GoDaddy(dot)com
So cheers to this wonderful awesometastic year for PinayDiaspora blog! =)
Education is a key source to uplift one's full potential through learning various trends and knowing the fundamental concepts of an idea by heart. This is not only done through the structured learning process that we undergo from our childhood years but educating oneself is a process that can be done through various means. In order to be effective in a given role or achieve a certain goal, learning has always been a major factor that can help us accomplish our set ideals in life. This is also a MUST in our journey towards creating, planning and achieving our path to financial freedom and abundance.
By learning, we expose ourselves to various activities -- reading books, attending seminars/workshop/talks, listening and watching financial/business-related programs and through different online means. Blogs and other social media platforms like Facebook has paved way for easy and free access to learn more about investment instruments as an example. Different groups has also been established to cater needs of people wanting to find out more options and effective financial instruments. In this era of wanton need to be financially free, people are seeking various ways and means in order to fully sustain that desire for knowledge. Admittedly belonging in that category, I suddenly had that urge to know more ways to prepare for my future and have the life that I have always wanted.
But where would I begin? That's the first question that popped in my head. Thankfully, the internet has provided free access to almost everything that I needed. But the overloaded information in front of me only confused me more. And then, it's as if God heard the desires of my heart. He sent an angel (Renz Leano) that now became my financial mentor. The series of talks that we had about our like-minded set goals and objectives ultimately transpired into a group of other fellow OFWs like us who wished to live a better future for them and their families. Thus the creation of Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) Group in Kuwait.
Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) officer's oath-taking ceremony at the Philippine Embassy in Faiha, Kuwait with Charge d' Affaires Atty. Raul H. Dado last January 24, 2015
Fast forward almost a year has passed since then, my mentor's dream of sharing his advocacy to help our country's economy and stir financial awareness to fellow OFWs and their families has now become a reality. My goal of only knowing where and what to start has now expanded in supporting family, friends and even strangers in planning their own. We have just started and doesn't have much to prove yet but if things are done with humility and honest intentions, positivism will only outshine the negative. This will be a tedious and very, very long journey but I know by the grace of God everything will be on the right track.
For more than a year now, I have carefully tracked my direct stocks investments using my online stock broker, COL Financial. So far I am proud to say that I have attained past my initial target of 10% gain/loss in my portfolio (dividends not yet included). I've made bad choices along the way due to sudden burst of emotions as a newbie and crazy excitement which led me to jump along the bandwagon to test shallow waters. But hopefully, with those experiences which I now regard as my learning point in my young journey to financial freedom and abundance, it simply taught me two very important things -- stick with the fundamental values of the company and do cost averaging with a twist.
My portfolio as of January 9, 2015. Note the box in red. NOTE: The Gain/Loss % will vary depending if you have sold your shares, locked in profits and/or added shares to your existing stocks. I will further explain it on my next posts. =)
Stocks investing isn't new, even in the Philippine setting either. The Philippine Stock Exchange (PSEI) had been continuously operating since its inception in the late 1920s. Unfortunately, this method of paper-based investment has not been widely spread among the common middle to lower class population due to its "for-the-rich-only-image". Back in the days, finding a stock broker and seeking platforms for stocks investing is not as easily accessible as it is now and investment products which have low minimum investment deposits are also not commonly offered by financial companies and/or banks unless you'd inquire thoroughly about it. If you are in the stock market know-how and obviously have the means back in the day, you're lucky to know this pot of gold. But as the world changes, people are now in the loop of getting more financially aware and seeking to be literate enough to care more about their financial situation and future retirement options. Thankfully, the technology that we have through the use of internet which paved the way for the creation of easy and accessible online stock brokerage platforms gives everybody a fair chance at this form of investing.
Due to this sudden demand, traditional financial companies opted to upgrade their system and adopt this new technological change. As of this writing there are more than 5 companies that offer accesible online stock investing platforms accredited by SEC. Each have their own different features to boost that entices potential investors. Out of these handful of companies, I carefully chose my online stock broker due to its proven 20 years record in the industry.
On a personal note, I use COL Financial because of their features. Recommendation from friends and numerous positive reviews that I have read on the internet also added to that decision. But among these, I primarily chose the company because they allow OFWs like me who are living abroad to process my application without any hassle of having to go back home for issues of personal appearance. I also find their site easy to navigate, their updated articles about the stock market easy to understand for a non-business major like me and a lot of friendly-to-use options. I'm not in any way connected with this company nor advertising them but simply putting my two cents on my decision when I applied to start my direct stocks investment. Like what I have stated, there are other companies to choose from and it would always depend on the potential investor's personal preference.
For information on which online accredited stocks broker to choose, I have made a list below with with their minimum amount for deposit. Click the name of the company and you will be directly linked to their site.
LIST OF 2014 ACCREDITED ONLINE STOCK BROKERS IN THE PHILIPPINES
(Some changes may appear as I will try to update this list once in a while)
Regarding account opening, requirements and other necessary information, it is highly recommended to CONTACT each company and inquire for further details.
All of us every single year, we're a different person. I don't think were the same person all our lives. - Steven Spielberg
January feels special in a very different way. Not only because its my birth month which would remind me that I would age again another year (Thank God) but it's technically the representation of the alpha in the Roman Calendar that is commonly used. This month marks as the official start of another year full of hopes, dreams, desires, wishes, regrets, failures, disappointments, frustrations and so on. Its the start of yet another crazy yet interesting life story.
Now why does every year people feel compelled to come up with their very own version of New Year's Resolutions? What the hell are these lists really for? According to my ever so reliant best friend Google, a "New Year's resolution is a tradition wherein a person makes a promise to do an act of self-improvement." So literally speaking, people are making lists of good deeds to do to reform oneself to probably be a much better citizen of the world. That's awesome. Really.
But only if these things are not just written on paper and would soon be forgotten after 24 hours.
Unfortunately, I, myself has failed so many times in making sure that I would follow or even do my supposed New Year's resolutions. Since I was a kid I always have this habit of listing the top 10 things that I would need to do to change myself for the better. But sadly, out of these usual 10 things that I would come up with, it would already be a miracle if I would have done at least one of them! Most are actually so-good-to-be-true, nonsensical dreams that only appears great on written paper.
What's supposed to be the problem here?
The answer is Me. Myself. And I.
It's that simple.
Honestly, I tend to be lazy in doing them or probably less inspired to achieve them. But looking back at my favorite yearly New Year's resolutions that would always be a repetition of last year, they seemed quite impossible to accomplish at some point. Imagine, promising myself not to argue with anybody for a year or to be always nice to everyone no matter what? That would make me a Saint already! But kidding aside.. reviewing them now, I now that I would've done them only that I just need to push myself more and that's what has been lacking for the past years.
My old 2013 Journal
But somehow, a miracle occurred. When I was cleaning my stack of yearly journals and stacking the old ones in a box, I came to read a page where I did my 2013 New Year's resolutions. And guess what? I actually, seriously, surprisingly and honestly did 90% of them! That really put a smile on my face like a crazy kid. Maybe I did have a change of heart somewhere. Because of that, it suddenly inspired me to continue my own tradition of self-improvement on a yearly basis. It may be very difficult and unrealistic most of the times, but the fact that I decided to list them down simply means that I honestly admit to myself all of my negativity and I fully accept the challenge of changing them to make myself a much better version of me. Besides, change would always need to start within oneself by accepting oneself fully -- from the worst to the best.
So did I continue to be successful with my 2014 New Year's resolutions? The answer is surprisingly yes again, which of course made me more than excited to write now my 2015 New Year's Resolutions. :D
Ms Georgia Subido of OFSI talking about the importance of Mutual Funds as an investment instrument
What is Financial Literacy?
From the word itself, it simply means being knowledgeable enough about the importance of having good financial standing and the ways to achieve one's financial set goals and objectives.
But how can someone become Financially Literate?
The answer is simple. EDUCATION.
By education, I'm not saying that the person should be an Accountant, have a Business degree or even earn an MBA for that matter, though that would be a good advantage but at least have undergone basic financial literacy seminar/workshop/class to be aware of its importance. Learning can also be done through oneself by reading business related news and informative blogs that tackles financial awareness, through watching financial-related programs, listening to investment-centered podcasts and clearly the most common of all is by simply attending financial literacy seminars. Obviously this doesn't always come for free since there are operational expenses to be paid like the venue, speakers, materials, food etc. Unfortunately because of these factors these seminars would cost more than a thousand pesos. But even though that's the case, the valuable learnings would definitely come in handy, presented in a realistic manner easy to be understood by everyone and are of course priceless. From my experience in attending financial literacy seminars, the speakers are always presented to be credible enough in the field wherein they not only discuss about the scope of their lecture in an understandable manner, talk about a couple of mind-wrecking business jargons, tips and tricks on how to grow one's investments and meet financial goals but as well as share their own personal financial experiences from which the attendees can relate to. Overall, this simply connects to the fact that experience is really a great teacher.
Mr Renz Leano, founder of OFSI, talking about the importance of being financially literate
So where can we attend Financial Literacy seminars?
Now that's a good question with a lot of answers. In the Philippines, there are a couple of financial literacy groups from Bo Sanchez's Truly Rich Club to IMG to Colayco Foundation. These groups sometimes cater to similar needs with different objectives but still present different strategies when it comes to investments, business and personal finance. IMG for one, since I'm a member myself, centers its mission on its 5 Pillars to Financial Freedom which in simple terms is all about building one's financial foundation one-by-one from having an emergency fund, to clearing one's debt, protecting one's self by having an insurance and so on. And of course, it should also be clearly noted that by participating in these organizations, one should pay a membership fee or regular contribution for that matter.
For someone living outside of the country, like me, the easiest and accessible way is through free webinars uploaded on youtube or other video platform websites, blogs and seasonal financial awareness programs offered by social groups in partnership with the Philippine Embassy to enlighten OFWs on how to manage their money.
Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) group based in Kuwait after attending a successful Stocks 101 learning session. Credit to the OFSI in house photographer.
Luckily, here in Kuwait, I was invited to be part of a recently established organization called the Overseas Filipino Stocks Investors (OFSI) which advocates to teach free financial literacy for all Filipinos focused on Stocks Investing. The group's main objective is not only to aid free financial guidance especially when it comes to stocks investment but as well as build awareness on the possibilities on how to achieve one's monetary set goals through this pecuniary instrument but also in order to help our country's economy through participating in the stock market. The group started small through like-minded friends which shares the same desire to be financially free and abundant. Through OFSI, its founder and main group members are hoping to encourage more kababayans to be financially literate by providing Basic Financial Literacy seminar specifically catered for OFWs since the people behind this cause are also OFWs themselves. Although I'm new in this field of financial learning, the road to financial freedom looks bright and really exciting!
Last 23rd of May, the Pinoy Youth Ministry in Salmiya Kuwait showcased a popular Filipino Folk Dance called Cariñosa representing the beautiful culture and tradition of the Philippines in front of different Ambassadors, selected Kuwaiti officials and Catholic parishioners at the Al Zumerida Palace Hotel in Salwa. The event was organized as a "Family Dinner for a Cause" by the Catholic community of Kuwait City Church for the completion of the cathedral in Bahrain.
PYMSK in traditional Filipino costume
Cariñosa Dance Presentation
Video courtesy of SaintGregorie Productions
The presentation lasted for less than 8 minutes combined with colorful video presentation showcasing the beautiful culture and popular tourist destinations of the country.
I love to travel. I love to go shopping. I love to dine and taste different kinds of food. I want to experience what life has to offer. But with my measly income, how can I experience all of this? I'm not even a fan of credit cards and I obviously don't want to be buried in debts just to cater to these wants.
Besides, I'm not getting any younger. I'm already in my late 20s. Five years from now I have plans of settling down (in God's will). I also want to own a house, send my children to good schools and live a comfortable life without thinking much about financial problems. I don't want to work 24/7 a day and live in complete poverty. I want to enjoy my life..financially free to be exact.
But the big question is.. HOW?
When I was in school, everyone would tell me that I need to study hard. Why? So I can finish school and get a good job afterwards. No one encouraged me to try and pursue having my own business. The old mentality of Filipino families is that when you have good education, you are guaranteed to get a good job, you can work abroad and earn good dollars. Funny thing is, not everyone who works abroad earn good dollars. Not everyone has the same rags-to-riches story after working abroad.
So how can I be financially free? From reading tons of articles, I found these easy steps that I'm currently following...and hopefully will continue to do so. *crossesfingers*
STEP 1 is important. KNOW ONESELF. Knowing one's goals in life is important. On my part I would have this little notebook to write down all the things that I want to accomplish and that includes being financially free in the near future. Somehow seeing my goal written down motivates me and obviously this gives a positive sense of inspiration to achieve that objective. My target goal: earn Php XX millions after 5 years. Too big? I don't care.
STEP 2 is obvious. CLEARING ALL DEBTS. Thankfully though I don't have any credit cards, loans or personal debt from anyone. I'm not saying that Credit cards are bad, since they're handy especially if you need instant cash, but based from my Mom's experience -- the interest rate will eat you up. (As of this writing the rate is around ~3% a month of your total accumulated expenses) For example you have Php 30,000 debt on you credit card and you have to pay Php~900 (interest rate) + other charges monthly. Imagine what you can buy with Php 900.
STEP 3 is simple. LEARN HOW TO BUDGET. This is clearly organizing your thoughts on what you want. Check the video for more info credited to Pesos and Sense. :)
STEP 4 needs discipline and connected with the previous step. ALLOCATE A FIXED AMOUNT FROM MONTHLY SALARY FOR SAVINGS. This will not only teach you discipline to save from your monthly income, but it will also teach you the strategy called Compounding Interest. This simple matter of saving up can give you many options for your future needs where you can build your own funds. One important fund that people must have is called an Emergency Fund(3x worth your salary if you're single, 6x if you're married) which is supposedly good as cash that you can rely on when something unlikely happens like losing your job, etc. Dream Fund is something that most people want but never really thought of saving much for. This of course includes money saved for leisure activities and even for shopping for expensive items that's on your I-want-to-have-list. Another important fund which many people doesn't consider much isRetirement Fund, which most Filipinos rely on their future SSS pension. I'm not saying you need to rely on it 101% but there's a good chance that due to inflation rates, your pension 20-30-40 years from now won't be considered that much. Overall, there's like different other funds to enumerate but it still depends on you on where you'd want your savings to be used in the near future. For a good visual example, check the video again.
STEP 5 is a must. GET INSURED. When people hear insurances, they'll think of pre-need companies (for education etc) that went wrong. But insurances, primarily life insurance is fixed, stable and has been in the country for a century. Specifically a life insurance, is a service that would ensure that whatever happens to yo, your beneficiaries would be taken care of. You can of course get a health insurance, which can help you get covered when you and your family members are sick. Thankfully though here in Kuwait I have a health insurance that is compulsory when the visa is renewed. But the question is - what if I'm in the Philippines and *knockonwood* I would need an HMO to cover my expenses and I don't have one? That's a good question right? For more info, check this LINK.
STEP 6 needs focus. KNOW WHERE TO INVEST. Thankfully there are a lot of financial instruments available for people to invest. There's the stocks, mutual funds, UITFs, treasury bills, bonds, etc. Since I'm a fan of Pesos and Sense videos, check this out.
These steps can be personalized according to your needs, but bottom line is.. when it comes to financial freedom it's all about having focus, discipline and knowing what you really want. :)
Life is all about changes and one of these changes struck me last year. Who would have thought that aside from my SFC family, I would continue to venture out my spiritual journey in serving God as an usherette during the Holy Eucharist? I'm Catholic-schooled but never did I imagined myself dressed in a formal church uniform while greeting people and leading them towards their seats before the mass would start. Nor would I participate voluntarily and happily in any church-related activities that would consume most of my supposed weekend and serve others. But a year has passed, a lot has happened and I'm still part of PYMSK or the Pinoy Youth Ministry in Salmiya Kuwait organized by the Filipino parish priest in St. Therese Church, Fr. Ben Barrameda.
This year marks the Pinoy youth group's first year anniversary. Even us, didn't really expect that the group would survive this long. Obviously, groups are just good during their inception and count towards a couple of weeks until it'll die a slow and painful death. But PYMSK proved different - or at least that's how we all see it. Hopefully though this won't be our last anniversary but would only just be the start.
PYMSK 1st Anniversary Video. Credit to SaintGregorie
