All Articles With Author : Pierre Salonga
The latest and the best financial news, tips and tricks.
Start Adding to Cart: 31 Must-Visit Online Shopping Sites
- By Pierre Salonga
- October 14, 2021
One of the most convenient ways to fulfill a shopping list is through online shopping. As long as you have a trusty smartphone and internet access, you can cross out the items on your shopping list anytime without leaving your home. No need to tire yourself walking in malls and risking your health in this pandemic. You can now buy everything you need from online shopping sites. So here’s a list of the best online shopping sites in the Philippines for a variety of items in the fashion, beauty, home, and electronic categories, just to name a few. Check them out! Top Online Shopping Sites in the Philippines Starting off this list are two of the biggest and most popular online shopping sites in the Philippines. If you haven’t tried shopping on Lazada or Shopee, you’re missing out on a lot. Here’s why. Lazada – www lazada.com.ph In a survey conducted by Rappler, Lazada ranked as one of the most used online shopping sites in the Philippines.[1] Just like a huge virtual department store, the shopping portal offers a variety of goods from different legit online sellers. From makeup to the latest gadgets, Lazada’s got you covered. It also holds frequent promos, with the grand year-end sale being one of its most-awaited events. Payment methods: Cash on delivery Lazada E-Wallet Credit and debit card GCash Shipping methods: Door-to-door delivery, pick-up Shipping fee: Varies from seller to seller Delivery time: 7 days for Metro Manila addresses 12 days for provincial addresses, except for some remote areas Shopee – www.shopee.ph More than…
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Need a Card? Here’s a Guide to Credit Card Online Application
- By Pierre Salonga
- October 12, 2021
The number of credit cardholders in the Philippines increased from 7.5 million in 2013 to 9 million in 2018.[1] Apart from the different credit card types and perks offered by banks, the convenience of a credit card online application may have also played a part in the increase. Not to mention that it’s much safer to just apply online than go to the bank during a pandemic. Traditionally, you need to head down your bank’s nearest branch to apply for a credit card. You’d have to wait in line for your turn to submit your requirements and wait for approval, which can be time-consuming. But thanks to modern technology, long queues for credit card applications have become a thing of the past. Online application now allows potential customers to apply for a card at the comfort of their home. Why You Should Apply for a Credit Card Online A credit card online application offers various advantages compared to its traditional counterpart. Here are some of them: Convenience This is probably the number one reason why a lot of people prefer online credit card applications. You don’t have to spend time going to your preferred bank’s nearest branch and wait in line. There’s no extra time wasted as you can just submit your requirements for a credit card through your preferred bank’s website. All you need is a computer with internet access. Access to a Wide Range of Credit Card Products Traditionally, if you want to compare credit cards from various issuers, you need to visit each institution separately or call up…
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What is a Credit Card? Learn Its History, Definition, Uses, and More
- By Pierre Salonga
- September 8, 2021
You may already have an idea about credit cards. In fact, you may be considering getting one. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this article. However, what keeps you from actually getting a card is your lack of working knowledge about it. After all, what we don’t fully know often scares us or makes us anxious. Add to that the credit card horror stories you may have heard from family and friends. If you’re a credit card newbie, this article’s for you. This will show how practical credit cards are as a budgeting and spending tool. We’ve also laid out the pros and cons of having one so you’ll be able to make an informed decision. From Charge Plates to Plastic Cards: A Brief Credit Card History People had been using the concept of credit cards long before the word credit card was coined. For instance, merchants in the 1800s used charge plates and special coins to extend credit to local farmers until they collected profits from harvests and produce.[1] And in the early 1900s, Western Union started issuing metal plates to its select customers. Such plates allowed customers to delay the payment of the charges that they’d accumulated. But the modern credit card invention is usually credited to a businessman named Frank McNamara. Frank was dining at a restaurant. But when he was about to pay the bill, he realized that he left his wallet at home. This incident inspired the idea behind the contemporary credit card. Frank and his business partner, Ralph Schneider, then started the Diner’s Club. The…
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10 Credit Card Myths You Should Stop Believing
- By Pierre Salonga
- August 25, 2021
Credit card penetration in the Philippines remains low.[1] Although the pandemic has driven consumers to transact online, around 42% of Filipinos still prefer cash payments[2] over credit cards for online shopping. What’s stopping potential eligible cardholders in the Philippines from getting a credit card? Are credit card misconceptions a factor in the low number of Filipinos owning one? According to the 2018 Moneymax Financial Life Survey, Filipinos don’t want to apply for a credit card for three main reasons: high interest fees, stringent approval process, and lack of financial discipline. However, many Filipinos also fear credit cards might put them in jail or worsen their financial situations. Credit card myths have long been hindering Filipinos from leveraging bank products that could improve their cash flow and financial health. Moreover, having wrong assumptions about credit cards can also hurt your credit score, cost you more money, and make you miss out on great credit card benefits. It’s time we ditch these common credit card myths and know what the real deal is about credit cards. Top 10 Credit Card Myths in the Philippines 1. Credit Cards Will Drown You in Debt “Huwag kang kumuha ng credit card! Mababaon ka lang sa utang.” Heard this from your family or friends? Many Filipinos are still afraid of owning a credit card because they believe it will only leave them in debt due to interests and other charges. Credit cards are also perceived as a big temptation to overspend. With a credit card in your wallet, it’s easier to give in to impulsive buying….
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Top Tips for Freelancers in the Philippines Who Want a Credit Card
- By Pierre Salonga
- April 21, 2021
“Can a freelancer get a credit card?” For anyone who has started a work-from-home career, concerns like getting a credit card for freelancers in the Philippines always come to mind. Credit cards are useful for self-employed Filipinos just as they are for employees. Having one allows freelancers to verify their PayPal accounts for receiving payments online. It can also be used to buy software programs, web hosting services, and other important work tools. Of course, it comes in handy when shopping online, paying bills, or booking flights. While a Visa/Mastercard debit card or prepaid card can get those things done, it’s better to use a credit card for certain transactions. For example, you can pay for big purchases like laptops or appliances in monthly installments with no interest. You can earn rewards points with your credit card transactions. More importantly, you can also use your credit card during financial emergencies when you have no access to cash. Read more: Visa vs Mastercard: Which Credit Card Brand is Better? 8 Steps to Prepare Financially for the Freelancer Life Unfortunately, it’s challenging to get a credit card for freelancers in the Philippines. To qualify for one, you have to own a registered business with a profitable operation for at least one to two years. To prove that, you’re required to submit an income tax return (ITR), business registration papers, and financial statements. Beginning freelancers typically don’t have these documents on hand. But don’t lose hope—you can still get a credit card even if you don’t have stable employment. Here are different ways…
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Shopping in the Time of COVID-19: 30 Online Grocery Stores with Delivery Services
- By Pierre Salonga
- April 13, 2021
How do you keep your pantry stocked without leaving home? Use an online grocery delivery service. Online grocery stores in the Philippines have been around for a while. Some of these online shops even started operating before the COVID-19 outbreak. More online supermarkets have opened during the pandemic. Suddenly, Filipinos have realized their value now that the country is under quarantine. So that you don’t risk spreading or getting infected with the coronavirus, just stay at home and order your needed food and supplies from online grocery shops with delivery service. Know if you are at risk for COVID-19 with our COVID-19 Self Assessment tool. Click here. What is Online Grocery Delivery? Online grocery delivery is a web-based service that makes it convenient and safe for people to order groceries, food, and other household essentials and then have them delivered to their homes. Back to the main article: 21 Online Shopping Sites for Every Type of Need How Does Online Grocery Delivery Work? Online ordering is quickly and easily done using a smartphone or laptop through the store’s e-commerce site, mobile app, Facebook/Instagram page, online order form, and/or partner online shops. Usually, online shops accept cash on delivery. But more stores have shifted to safer, contactless payment methods such as credit cards, debit cards, e-wallets, and online bank transfers. Once the customer’s payment is confirmed, the items are gathered by a personal shopper, the order is processed, and the delivery is arranged. Supermarkets, delivery apps, online marketplaces, and stand-alone e-commerce stores (typically small businesses) provide online grocery delivery in the Philippines….
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9 Salary Loans to Consider for Financial Emergencies
- By Pierre Salonga
- March 19, 2021
Salary loans—with their quick online application, guaranteed approval with no credit checking, and fast cash loan disbursement—can help cash-strapped Filipinos meet their urgent financial needs. More so when it’s Petsa de Peligro and there’s an emergency, like sudden hospitalization in the family or overdue bills. Before you shop around for options, make sure you’re well-informed about salary loans in the Philippines. Keep reading to know what these loans are and which ones you may consider for financial emergencies. What is a Salary Loan? A salary loan is a type of loan borrowers can get to make ends meet or finance an important expense (e.g., tuition, medical bills, and other emergency purposes) before receiving their next paycheck. Salary loans, whose amounts are usually based on the borrower’s gross monthly salary, are expected to be paid off over a fixed period. Also called online loans or quick cash loans, salary loans are easier and faster to get than traditional loans. Simply apply and submit a few requirements online, and receive the money within 24 hours. Unlike pawnshop loans that require collateral such as jewelry and gadgets, salary loans don’t require any collateral. Rather, most of them ask for only a valid ID and proof of income or billing. Compared to personal loans and pawn loans, salary loans in the Philippines have higher interest rates, lower loanable amounts, and shorter repayment terms. However, it’s also important to note that salary loan providers offer lower rates and longer terms than loan sharks. Read more: Online Loans in the Philippines: What Filipinos Need to Know…
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What is the Best Credit Card to Pay Bills in the Philippines?
- By Pierre Salonga
- September 8, 2020
Using a credit card is one of the most convenient and safest ways to pay bills. It spares you the hassle of lining up at malls and remittance centers and paying in cash or check. Instead, you can make utility payments online with your card at home. When you pay bills with a credit card, you can track your expenses more easily. You can just view your card’s billing statement to check if all your bills for the month are settled. What’s the best credit card to pay bills, you might ask. It’s the one that provides maximum savings and convenience when used to pay for electricity, water, mobile postpaid, internet, cable, and other utilities. Keep reading to learn more about the best credit cards to pay utility bills in the Philippines. Read More: A Guide to Paying Electricity Bills with Meralco Online Simple Steps to Check and Pay for Your Maynilad Water Bill Online What to Consider When Choosing the Best Credit Card to Pay Bills Cashback or Rewards for Bills Payment Do I get cashback for paying bills?You might be wondering if you’ll be rewarded for using a credit card to pay bills. Well, it depends on the card. Some credit cards earn cashback or rewards points on utilities while others don’t. If you pay a lot of bills every month, it’s best to get a cashback or rewards credit card that lets you collect rebates or points each time you charge your utility payments to it. Rather than overspend on non-essentials, you rack up more rewards with…
