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How To Cope In Case You Lost Your Job During Covid-19 Pandemic

Since the world became aware of coronavirus, everyone was in panic. What will happen next? Will this infect us? How can we go on with our lives amidst the pandemic?

But the most important question right now is what happens to your job, especially since you are working overseas.

Since the strict implementation of the lockdown, thousands of OFWs were either repatriated or not allowed to leave the country. Worse, millions of Filipinos are now jobless – the highest rate so far.

Times like this are extremely difficult, especially if you lost your job you so worked hard for. There is no assurance that everything will be okay in a few months time, but we do hope these tips will help you get through:

It’s Not Your Fault

Covid-19 affected everyone. Companies, even if they don’t want to, were forced to close down to minimize losses.

In case you lost your job, don’t blame yourself. This won’t help as well.

Acknowledge Your Emotions

You might be experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions due to job loss – anger, fear, worry, anxiety, and the list goes on. That’s normal. You have a family to feed and a long list of loans and other payables to pay so feeling these emotions is part of the process.

Acknowledge these emotions but don’t let these consume you. Otherwise, it will affect your way of thinking, which will make it harder for you to strategize on what to do next. Keep in mind that these feelings are temporary and you will get through this eventually.

Since you’re at it, take this time to reflect as well. Examine what you could’ve done to improve your performance. This is a good opportunity to look into how you were at work and vow to do better the next time.

Claim Your Employment Benefits

This is important. You might lose your job but this doesn’t your employer is exempted from not giving what is due to you. Make sure you demand your salary and benefits as stated in your employment contract.

Aside from your employer, the government also offers financial assistance amounting to P10,000 to OFWs. You can avail of this benefit as well. This one-time cash assistance may not be that much but it is still helpful.

Reach Out To Your Family

This is also important. At this point, you need the comfort and love coming from your family. Tell them what happened and be honest about your situation. Do not sugarcoat your reality because they need to be aware of what’s happening as well. This way, they can also make adjustments.

Of course, they will need your job but they will understand your situation and help you get through it.

Look For A Distraction

Dealing with job loss especially during this time can be difficult. While it’s okay to acknowledge those emotions, don’t focus on those alone. Instead, look for a distraction.

It could be rediscovering an old hobby or learning a new skill. You might also want to take advantage of courses online to help you improve your portfolio. Treat this as an opportunity and put it into good use.

Examine Other Sources Of Income

In the meantime, look for other sources of income. Online selling is in these days, so that’s an option you can try. Online jobs are also popular, which could give you extra income. If you have a particular service you can offer, say housekeeping or maintenance work, then do so.

There are many opportunities so don’t be afraid to explore.

We understand the situation you are in. Do know that this, too, shall pass. Take this time to explore something new and who knows, it could lead to something bigger.

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The Possible Effects Of Covid-19 On OFWs And Overseas Employment, In General

According to the Department of Labor and Employment, almost 100,000 OFWs were stranded worldwide because of the coronavirus. These OFWs were either affected by:

  • Lockdown policies in their respective host countries
  • Distressed workers who are seeking repatriation
  • Expired contracts but cannot go back to the Philippines due to travel restrictions

Majority of these workers are coming from Middle East countries.

Here comes the scary part: this is just the beginning. Aside from tourism, overseas employment will most likely be affected by the pandemic.

Here’s how:

Lower Remittance

In 2019, OFW remittances went as high as $33.9 billion or 10 percent of the country’s GDP (1). These remittances have a positive impact on the country’s foreign exchange earnings. As a result, there is balance of payments, it strengthens the Philippine currency, and an increase in foreign reserves.

More importantly, it goes straight to the household. This means OFW families have sufficient spending power to buy not just what they need but also what they want.

Sadly, overseas employment is greatly affected by the pandemic. This means there will be lower remittances, too.

The New Normal In The Workplace

The hashtag #newnormal is trending – and it’s not surprising why. A lot of adjustments will be made by different industries to minimize the spread of the virus.

The same goes for the workplace.

Most companies around the world are making necessary adjustments to reduce the possibility of infection. Surely, social distancing will be strictly implemented. Companies will also be forced to institute a rotational workforce to reduce the number of workers inside the company premises. They might also implement shortened work hours in the company.

Lower Overseas Employment Opportunities

Countries around the world are enforcing travel restrictions to minimize the possibility of spreading the virus. More so, the government will prioritize their own citizens first. There could also be economic issues involved as every country in the world is trying to recover. Sadly, this will greatly affect overseas employment opportunities.

In the meantime, you can still look for jobs that will fit your credentials. When everything is slowly getting back to normal, you can apply again.

Temporary Or Indefinite Unemployment

This is true whether here or abroad. There are a lot of OFWs stranded abroad because thy are unable to go back home due to the travel ban. There are also a lot of workers who are still in the Philippines and cannot go to their host country because of the restrictions imposed. Worse, there are companies that opt not to renew or cancel the worker’s contract due to economic difficulties.

Changes In In-Demand Jobs

Because of the pandemic, there is a higher demand for healthcare workers both here and overseas. This could be a good income opportunity.

Aside from those in the medical field, there is also a growing demand for workers who are knowledgeable in technology. People will constantly look for ways to make their lives easier, especially when it comes to shopping and paying the bills. Apps will constantly by developed and creation of websites will be on the rise; hence work opportunities.

Still, this doesn’t mean other fields are no longer needed. Companies are waiting it out and when everyone is safe, the demand will rise again.

Health Is Key

There’s a reason why companies require future employees to go through medical exam. They need to know and make sure that you are fit to work.

Because of Covid-19, there is a possibility that medical exams will be taken more seriously. Companies need to ensure that you are fit to work, whether physically, mentally, and emotionally. This way, both parties can focus on work and not worry about being sent home.

Sources:

  1. https://www.rappler.com/business/252043-overseas-filipino-workers-remittances-2019
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6 Money Lessons OFWs Can Learn During Covid-19 Pandemic

2020 has been a challenging year – so far. Tragedies and natural phenomenons rocked the whole world. As of this writing, the world is still being challenged in the form of Covid-19.

The pandemic put a halt in everything. Tourism is heavily affected. Unemployment is on the rise. Lockdown policies are still in place, thereby making you unable to work or go to your country destination. Worse, the economy is bleeding, not just in the Philippines but also around the world.

Filipinos are resilient. We will constantly look for opportunities to rise in every diversity. That being said, here are money lessons we all can learn from because of this pandemic:

Lesson No. 1: Emergency Fund Is A Must

Emergency fund is designed for a specific purpose: during emergencies. At times like this, you need this fund now more than ever since, well, this is an emergency.

Ideally, an Emergency Fund must allow you to survive for at least three months. This will cover expenses such as food, medicine, and utilities while you are unable to work.

If you don’t have a separate emergency fund, then your savings will do – for now. The government provides P10,000 cash aid for OFWs plus other forms of help but having this type of fund could help you get through the rainy days.

READ: What You Need To Know About Emergency Fund

Lesson No. 2: Needs Come First

In this kind of situation, needs come first – always. You cannot afford to splurge on things your family back home wants, even if it’s on sale, because you need to be wiser on how you will use your money.

Covid or no Covid, always prioritize what your family needs first. Don’t buy items that will have no value in the long run just to satisfy your family’s requests. Splurging from time-to-time is okay and for as long as budget permits. But at this point, needs will come first.

Lesson No. 3: Invest Your Money Wisely

Investment is process wherein you put your money into something for profit or material results. Unfortunately, a new phone, bags, and shoes are not considered as an investment.

Stocks could be a good form of investment since the value appreciates over time. Companies give dividends several times a year, which means additional income. In case budget is an issue, time deposit or UITF could be a good place to start.

If you want something more tangible, then place your hard-earned money on properties. This way, you can have a place you can call your own.

The bottom line is be wiser. Banks and other financial institutions offer various forms of investment to help you grow your money.

Lesson No. 4: Look For Alternate Source Of Income

Your job overseas may be giving your family a comfortable life back home. Still, don’t be complacent. Having alternate source of income, whether in the Philippines or wherever you are, could help you a lot since you have additional buying power.

Teach your family to start something as well. Cook well-loved family dishes and sell it online. If any member is good at something, then consider monetizing that skill. Freelance or online jobs could be a good source of income as well.

More than anything, this pandemic is teaching each and every one of us to go out of our comfort zone and work harder.

Lesson No. 5: Borrow Wisely

There’s nothing wrong with borrowing money, especially if you need it to fund your existing business or thinking of buying a family home. But if you are borrowing money to extend your wallet to buy material things, then you need to evaluate your priorities.

Borrow money only if it will help you in the long run.

Lesson No. 6: Live Simply.

One thing this pandemic taught us is how to live a simple life. You’ll realize that at the end of the day, material things don’t really matter.

Sure, it will make you happy but at the end of the day, what matters most are food on the table, decent clothes to wear, roof above the heads, and a comfortable life.

What have you learned during this pandemic?

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DOLE-AKAP Program For OFWs

The Covid-19 pandemic hit us hard, regardless of where you are in the world. But one of the groups who were heavily affected was you, overseas Filipino workers.

The reality is there is a threat of losing your job because the company you’re working for sustained heavy financial losses and may have to downsize. You cannot get side jobs for additional income because people need money for themselves as well. There are also a lot of OFWs who had no choice but to be repatriated.

What is the government’s response to the burden carried out by thousands of OFWs? DOLE-AKAP program.

What is DOLE-AKAP for OFWs?

This program of the Department of Labor and Employment is intended for displaced OFWs as a result of Covid-19. Its main purpose is to provide one-time financial assistance of USD 200.00 or P10,000 or its equivalent to the local currency where the OFW is currently located.

This is part of DOLE’s Covid-19 Adjustment Measure Program or CAMP amounting to P1.5 billion.

DOLE-AKAP covers:

  • Regular or Documented Workers – these are OFWs with valid passport, has appropriate visa or permit to work in the receiving country, and has Contract of Employment processed by POEA or POLO.
  • Qualified, Undocumented Workers – these are OFWs originally regular or documented workers but lost their status for some reason, OR whose contracts were not processed by POEA or POLO but have taken actions to regularize their contracts and status, OR active OWWA members at the time of the availment.
  • Balik Manggagawa – these are OFWs who are unable to return to their host country due to Covid-19.

What are the qualifications?

  • Worker must experience job displacement due to the receiving country’s lockdown or quarantine policies.
  • Worker was infected by Covid-19.
  • Must still be in the overseas jobsite and currently experiencing “no work, no pay,” or in the Philippines as Balik-Manggagawa, or already repatriated in the country
  • Has not yet received any financial support or assistance from employer or receiving country

How to Apply For DOLE-AKAP?

If you are still onsite / in the country where you are currently working –

Make sure you coordinate with your respective POLO. Each POLO has respective downloaded application forms. Once you secured a copy, fill it up and submit with it the following documents:

  • Copy of passport or travel document
  • Proof of overseas employment like work visa, residence ID, or OEC
  • Proof of loss of employment on the account of Covid-19
  • Proof that you are currently regularizing your worker status

POLO will evaluate your application within five working days. If approved, concerned POLO will release USD 200 through bank transfer or money remittance.

If you were repatriated / Balik-Manggagawa –

Step 1: Visit DOLE-AKAP online. You can access it by clicking here.

Step 2: Fill out the necessary information. Then click Next.

Step 3: Upload the following documents:

  • Passport or Travel Document
  • Flight ticket, boarding pass, or arrival stamp sticker on your passport. This serves as evidence that you returned to the Philippines.
  • Proof of overseas employment such as work visa, OEC, or Permit to Stay
  • Proof of loss employment due to Covid-19 or that the receiving country are included in the list of heavily-affected countries such as Notice of Termination of Employment, closure of the company issued by foreign recruitment agency or employer, Incident Report on termination of employment submitted to respective POLO, or Certification of Displacement issued by the Philippine Embassy or Consulate or POLO
  • For undocumented workers, upload proof of your intention to regularize your stay in the host country such as work visa, employment contract, and payslip.

Step 4: Once uploaded, click Submit. A confirmation prompt will appear.

Step 5: Check your email for the system-generated confirmation receipt. Take note of this.

Step 6: OWWA officers will review your application. They will contact you so make sure you have all the necessary documents on hand. Once approved, your application will be submitted to the DOLE Regional Office concerned.

Step 7: The cash aid will be transferred to your account within five working days.

As of this writing, 86,000 OFWs, both in and out of the Philippines, were given cash aid by the agency. The agency is currently targetting up to 150,000 overseas Filipino workers who were affected by the pandemic.

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How To Cope With Covid-19 While Overseas

You already heard or read about it somewhere. As of this writing, hundreds of thousands of people around the world are infected with Covid-19. Thousands were already dead since the virus was discovered late last year. Worse, millions around the world are unsure as to what will happen and how to recover when all of this is over.

This includes you.

You might be worried of the future since your bread and butter is temporarily halted. Because of the lockdown imposed by the government where you are located, you cannot work – and no work means no pay as well. Surely, you are more worried about your family back home, who is also dependent on remittances.

Times like this can be stressful. You might be anxious and has this urgency to go home but you can’t because of the imposed lockdown. The government, as much as they want, might not recommend repatriation because of the increased risk.

While this may be easier said that done, here are some tips to help you cope with coronavirus even while overseas:

Tip No. 1: Observe Proper Hygiene

Regardless of where you are, hygiene is a must. Covid-19 can be spread easily if we don’t practice proper hygiene, especially when going out.

Wash your hands regularly, sanitize and disinfect your home, and keep yourself clean at all times. Some say wearing a mask is not helpful, but you’ll never know who you’ll interact with so it’s better to have some protection. It won’t hurt if you use gloves, too, especially when going out.

Tip No. 2: Practice Social Distancing

This is a must. Close contact is among the easiest ways to spread the virus. As much as possible, practice social distancing or at least one meter away from other people.

Avoid crowded places. If possible, bulk up as much as you can to minimize your trips outside and increase your chances of catching the virus.

If you know someone who is sick, regardless of the cause, then it is best to stay away from that person – for now.

Tip No. 3: Maximize Technology

You could be missing your family now more than ever. Unfortunately, you cannot go home because of the risk.

Thankfully, there’s technology. Unlike decades ago, all you need is an Internet connection and Facebook account, and you can talk to your loved ones back home. Make sure to keep them updated of your situation because surely, they are worrying about you, too.

Tip No. 4: It’s Time To Bring Out Your Emergency Fund

We cannot stress enough the importance of having an emergency fund. Again, you’ll never know what will happen so it is best to be prepared.

The issue with imposed lockdowns means you cannot work as much as you want to. This could affect your current money status since you still need some to survive. If that’s the case, then you will need to use your Emergency Fund since, well, the situation is considered as emergency.

Tip No. 5: Take Care Of Yourself

Unfortunately, Covid-19 is deadlier on elderly people and those who are immuno-compromised or with underlying medical conditions. Even if you don’t have hypertension or diabetes among many medical conditions, this doesn’t mean you will be spared from contracting the virus.

That being said, make sure to take care of yourself not just for your own sake but also for your family. Get sufficient amount of sleep, exercise as much as you can, and eat healthy. A strong immune system is what people need these days and you need that as well.

Soon, this will be over and everyone could go back to their normal lives. While we all wait for that day, brace for impact and stay as healthy as you can.

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6 Tips In Adapting To A Foreign Work Environment

Working abroad comes with tons of challenges, both personal and external. You have to deal with homesickness and carry the burden of ensuring that you will provide a better future for your family.

Apart from that, there is another challenge you have to deal with: foreign work place.

Starting a new job in the Philippines can be daunting. Can you imagine what it feels like to work to a new company that is thousands of miles away from home and with co-workers who don’t speak your language?

Not to worry because here are tips that will help you adapt to your foreign workplace and get along with your co-workers:

Tip No. 1: Always Do Your Research

This is important and the first thing you need to do before you go overseas.

Before you leave, read and learn as much as you can about your country destination. The PDOS will cover the basics but keep yourself informed as much as you can. Learn about their culture, way of life, traditions, clothing choice, and even food.

Research about work etiquette, too. Some countries prefer shake hands as a means of introduction while others like to bow. Some cultures are specific when it comes to introduction, so make sure to look into it as well.

The more you know, the easier for you to adapt because you know what to expect.

Tip No. 2: If Unsure, Then Ask Questions

In Filipino culture, oftentimes, asking questions is a sign of weakness. People assume and expect that you know until your mistake blows up.

Thankfully, other countries are not assuming. In fact, they will appreciate it more if you are honest about your limitations and willing to ask questions. Ask for help if you are not familiar about anything.

Just make sure to pay attention and remember what they say so they don’t have to repeat themselves.

Tip No. 3: Be A Good Observer

Again, you are in a different country. The things you are used to back home may not be the same as what others are doing in your work place. You might even be shocked with the things they are used to.

That being said, make it a habit to observe. Pay attention to how your co-workers are, especially the locals. Your research may not say a thing or two about how work is carried out in your work place so make sure you see how your co-workers are handling the work.

Tip No. 4: Learn Their Language

English may be the universal language but don’t assume that everyone knows how to speak it. In fact, you will have co-workers who won’t even make an effort to learn English.

This is why it is important to do your research. Make list of the common words and greetings in their local language. Make sure you practice proper pronounciation so people will understand you easily. This will make it easier for you to connect with them and vice versa.

Tip No. 5: Take Time To Explore

It’s not easy to make friends with someone who grew up with a different culture than yours. While you are still familiarizing your new environment, keep an open mind and start exploring the area around you. This will give you a better understanding of the new place and culture you are in.

Take this opportunity as well to build rapport with your new colleagues. Ask about must visit spots and recommended restaurants you can try. Who knows, they’ll give you a free tour.

Tip No. 6: Connect With The Filipino Community

Filipinos are everywhere so make sure you use that to your advantage, especially if you are the new kid on the block.

You will most likely have Filipino co-workers and it will help you a lot if you co-worker will guide you. If you are the lone Filipino in the workplace, then that’s fine, too. You will meet fellow Filipinos in the country where you’re working, so be friendly and say hi.

It will make a difference if you have the Filipino community backing you up. They will give you tips, do’s, and don’ts that you can remember to make working easier and enjoyable for you.

They’re a good source of connections as well, just in case you need a side job.

Adapting to a new environment, especially a foreign one, will not be a walk in the park. Take it one day at a time and you’ll get better eventually.

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7 Signs You Should Leave Your Job Overseas

They say OFW life is not for everyone. That could be true. Can you just imagine battling with homesickness and living in a foreign country you’ve never been to?

Being an OFW requires tons of sacrifices – starting from the application process to adjusting to your new life overseas. Even going back home can be stressful as well, especially if you cannot present the required documents.

Nonetheless, there are instances that tell you that it’s time to go home even without finishing your contract. As much as it hurts to leave early, you have no choice.

Here are signs that tell you that you need to leave your job:

Sign No. 1: You Are Sickly

There is a reason why employers require medical exam. They need to know that you are physically fit to handle the job. Otherwise, your application will be rejected.

If you notice that you are becoming sickly up to the point where you cannot fulfill your job properly, then it’s probably best to go home. Your employer will most likely terminate your contract since you are not physically fit for the job.

Sign No. 2: Your Mental Health Is Suffering

Aside from being physically fit, OFWs must also be mentally fit.

Being away from your family could take a toll in your mental health. Some might be depressed, will experience homesickness, or will get paranoid. While it’s normal to be sad and feel worried, what employers don’t like is when these emotions are taking a toll on the job.

Perhaps, OFW life is not for you.

Sign No. 3: You Experience Abuse

This is a serious situation. Abuse, in whatever form, is and will never be tolerated. This could mean verbal abuse, bullying,

If you experience abuse from your employer or even your co-employees, then it’s best to go home. Make sure you coordinate with the Philippine Embassy since they have a Repatriation Program that helps distressed Filipinos into going back home.

Sign No. 4: You Were Scammed

Sometimes, it’s not your employer’s fault as to why you need to go back home. Sadly, illegal recruitment is still prevalent and if you happen to be a victim, you need to consider going back to the Philippines.

First, illegal recruitment is prohibited by law. Second, this would mean that you are an undocumented OFW. If the officials in the country where you’re working finds out that you don’t have legitimate papers, then consequences will follow. Some will put you in jail while others may have you deported.

The bottom line is be more careful and vigilant. Pay extra attention to the agency you are dealing with and check its status in the POEA website to see if it is a legitimate and licensed recruitment agency.

Sign No. 5: You Don’t Have Enough Opportunity For Growth

Surely, you don’t want to do the same things over and over. As much as possible, you want to improve and get better in your chosen career path.

But if you notice that you’ve been doing the same job, or you’re not given the opportunity to showcase your skill, or your voice doesn’t matter, or there is limited room for improvement and growth, then it’s time for a check.

Perhaps, there is a different path somewhere around the world where you will be able to thrive and showcase who you are.

Sign No. 6: The Salary Is Not Enough

Let’s face it. The real reason why you sought greener pastures outside the country is because of the amount of money you will make. You have tons of responsibilities and you want to make sure that you will be able to do something about those.

But if you are not being properly compensated considering your skills or work experience, or your employer is stripping your benefits despite what was written in the employment contract, the maybe it’s best to leave your job abroad.

Know your worth because you deserve fair compensation.

Sign No. 7: You Want A Career Change

Here’s the thing about being an adult: sometimes, you still cannot figure out what you want. You’ll only learn about what you really need when you are tasked to do something and you realized that you weren’t happy. You want to try something new because you need not only bigger pay but also the opportunity to try something new.

Plus, you’re getting bored with your job and everything seems like a routine to you. In that case, you need to figure it out what you really want.

Given these signs, do you need to leave your job overseas? Only you can answer that.

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Where To Work For First Time OFWs

Working in the Philippines might seem hopeless for you. You want to make sure that you will provide the best life and future for your family so you decided to seek greener pastures.

The question is where. There are tons of countries in need of Filipino workers and the choices could be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Hong Kong may be an instant choice as well but with the current condition of the city, it is best to explore your other options.

If you are a first-time OFW, then here are some of the country destinations ideal for you:

Singapore

This is recommended especially if you don’t want to feel too far from home.

Singapore is among the best and most stable countries to work in because of their current economic status. Plus, the pay is good, so you will be able to save money in no time. You just have to be competitive, hardworking, and patient because Singaporeans are known for being workaholic.

Language won’t be an issue as well since many Singaporeans can speak English. It is also a haven for expats from around the world, which means communication won’t be a problem.

Technology-related jobs are in demand in Singapore. Marketing, sales, and food and beverage industry have tons of job openings as well that you might want to check out.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working In Singapore

United Arab Emirates

UAE is also another OFW-favorite. This immensely-rich country, thanks to oil and gas deposits, are in need of skilled workers who want to advance in their field of expertise.

Healthcare, engineering, domestic work, food and beverage, and BPO are in demand nowadays. The best part is your income is tax-free, so there’s nothing to worry.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working In UAE

Taiwan

There is a reason why Taiwan is becoming a popular tourist destination among Filipinos. Aside from food, there’s so much to see in this small but proud country. This is why it’s not surprising why many aspiring OFWs are looking into this as well.

There are tons of job opportunities in Taiwan such as factory work, domestic work, production, and other similar jobs. Plus, Taiwanese are generally not discriminatory and work permit will be taken cared of by your employer.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working In Taiwan

New Zealand

No, New Zealand is not all about cows. Believe it or not, there are tons of job opportunities for OFWs that you might want to consider working here. There’s a job waiting in the healthcare industry, tourism, sports, and even electronics.

Plus one since New Zealand also provides equal opportunities, regardless of gender and citizenship.

If you love nature, then this country is for you.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working In New Zealand

Canada

Sometimes, it’s not enough that you are working overseas. Eventually, you will miss your family and you would want to be with them 24/7. If you plan to move your family for good to a different country, then Canada is the best choice.

There are tons of job opportunities waiting with competitive employment and healthcare benefits. It’s also easier to secure permanent residency as long as you submit all the needed requirements.

The weather may be more challenging, though, so choose your state wisely.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working in Canada

Which among these countries are you most likely to go? Regardless of your choice, make sure you submit all requirements and be truthful about your information.

More importantly, work hard. These countries will provide you with the best opportunities and benefits but if you don’t take your job seriously, then you might end up going home with nothing.

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Pay Your Bills Anywhere In The World With The Help Of These E-Payment Platforms

Being an OFW is not easy. Aside from being thousands of kilometers away from home, you have to deal with homesickness, different culture, and money issues.

Yes, money issues. After all, working outside the Philippines is not always a guarantee that you will get a better, more stable life.

This is why it is important to manage your money wisely.

Normally, you would send money back home and let your family do the budgeting, which includes paying the bills. But if you want to be sure, you would do the paying yourself.

The question is how.

Thankfully, there are tons of e-payment platforms that will help you pay the bills wherever you are.

Online Banking Service

This is the beauty of online banking. Aside from allowing you to keep track of your accounts and how much money you have, you can also pay your utilities bills, government contributions, loans, and credit card bills by deducting the said amount on your account.

You may also set up an auto-debit arrangement so you don’t miss a payment every month, especially for those non-negotiable expenses. Just make sure you sign up for an online banking account with your bank of choice to avail of this service.

The good thing about online banking services is that they have mobile counterparts. Simply check and download the mobile app of your bank of choice and make it easier for you to transact using your phone.

In this case, BDO is more convenient. It has partnered with tons of companies, thereby allowing you to pay utilities bills wherever you are.

Bayad Center Online

This is another convenient way of paying your bills. Bayad Center supports various billers including electricity, water, government services, Internet, cable TV, real estate, financial services, tuition fee, and even memorial plans.

Instead of sending remittances back home, you can already pay your bills conveniently through this service. Just make sure you pay on or before the due date since the system won’t allow overdue payments.

Also, there would be cut-off, which means payments must be made before 8:00pm, Philippine time. Otherwise, the payment will be reflected the following day.

You may also download the mobile app to make payment more convenient.

Meralco Online

This is exclusively for Meralco payments. You can either use your credit card, debit card, GCash, Smart Money, or Paymaya to pay for your electric bill. You may also enroll your Meralco account under auto-debit arrangement wherein the bill will be deducted from your bank account every month.

The good thing about this facility is that you are up-to-date when it comes to your billing. Payment will be reflected a few minutes. Also, partial and advance payments may also be made.

Meralco Online has a mobile app that you can download for free.

PayPilipinas

Let’s face it. Even if you are an OFW, you are still entitled to pay government services like SSS and PAG-IBIG. These agencies may have satellite offices abroad but not all OFWs can easily go there since they may be far.

Thankfully, PayPilipinas addresses that concern by allowing OFWs to pay contributions and loans with SSS and PAG-IBIG.

Simply create an account and link your credit card so you can start making payments. They also have partner remittance facilities in the Philippines so you can simply transfer funds in your PayPilipinas wallet.

Moneygment App

The truth is there are many Filipinos who are considered as unbanked or does not have access to bank facilities. This is where Moneygment comes in.

Moneygment serves thousands of unbanked Filipinos including OFWs. You can pay bills such as electricity, water, government contributions, cable TV, credit card, and Internet among others.

You can pay directly from your Moneygment wallet or through fund transfer. it may take one to two working days for the payment to get posted, so make sure you pay before the due date.

Coins.ph

Did you know that there are more than 80 billers listed in this payment facility? From electricity to tuition fee, Coins.ph is a convenient way to pay off those expenses every month.

Still, you need to add funds to your Coins.ph account before you can make any transaction.

There are many convenient and easier ways to pay your bills regardless of where you are in the world. Take advantage of these platforms to ensure that all of your bills are paid on time.

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Online Investment Scams You Need To Watch Out For

Technology has its ups and downs. Sure, you can connect with anyone in the world and pay bills wherever you are in the world. Unfortunately, the digital world can be a breeding ground for all things scam and illegal. If you’re not too careful, then you might end up being a victim as well. Worse, you could lose your hard-earned money and surely, you don’t want that to happen.

That being said, here are some of the online scams you need to be careful for – with tips on how to avoid them.

Online Investment Scam

This is very common. Many people are slowly considering and embracing the importance of investing money. Unfortunately and if you’re not too careful, you might end up putting your money in the wrong basket.

Below are the most common online investment scams in the Philippines:

  • Online Paluwagan – Known as onpal, this scheme regulates similar to the traditional paluwagan wherein members will take turns in receiving money from the pooled funds depending on the payout schedule. Facebook is the most common method used by onpal wherein a promise of cash deposit, remittance, or wire transfer is the mode of payment. To be able to earn more, you need to recruit members between one to 90 days. Unfortunately, many onpal members reported that they were not able to receive their money.
  • Fake Online Lending Companies – Borrowing money has never been this easy, thanks to online lending companies. Because of the popularity, scammers are enticing people to join by investing their money in micro-financing or lending companies. The pitch: you get to earn as much as 12 percent every week. This seems like a good idea and those behind the scam will pay the initial returns to make you believe that they are legitimate. Unfortunately, they’ll disappear after.
  • Paid-to-Click Programs – The concept is simple: click on online ads, log-in daily, or get referrals. Then, you’ll get paid depending on your daily turnout. While this seems like an easy way to earn money, you might end up losing more. In fact, you’ll be asked to pay a membership fee or buy advertising products, which will serve as your “share” of the profits. While this sounds tempting, there is no assurance that you will get paid – after all the effort and money you put through.
  • Offshore Stock Trading – OFWs have more dollars than peso on hand. Why not invest it, right? After all, you saw that ad on offshore investment on Facebook, which sounds promising. Unfortunately, this is a classic example of a scam since this type of investment scheme is not allowed to operate in the Philippines.
  • Bitcoin Investment – Cryptocurrency, popularly known as bitcoin, took the world by storm. Like they say, the higher you climb. the harder you fall, especially those who invested their money in this type of currency. It promises as high as 200 percent profit wherein transactions are done through mobile wallets, bank deposit, or remittance companies. The BSP considered bitcoin investment as “speculative and highly risky” that could lead to huge losses. Plus, this type of currency is not backed up any goods, company, or services unlike physical money.

Here’s the good news: there are several ways where you can protect yourself and your hard-earned money from online investment scams. The first thing you need to do is to check, read, and understand what you’re investing for.

Also, the company must be registered and authorized by the Securities and Exchange Commission to operate as an investment or lending company. Having a legitimate and registered company name is different from being allowed to operate and conduct investment operations. It must be explicitly approved by the agency.

Regularly check advisories issued by the SEC. The agency releases statements on the latest investment scams as well as companies involved in it. Keep in mind that ignorance excuses no one. Visit the website from time to time and see the latest news.

More importantly, don’t easily fall for ads that promise big returns. Return of your investment will take time, not days. Remember, if it’s too good to be true, then it is not true.