Category: OFW Guide

It’s not easy to start your own business, especially if you don’t have much experience and business background. In fact, this could be the reason why many are not ready and willing to take the risks.

The good news is you don’t have to take a business course to be able to start your entrepreneurial dream. Stick around and read this post since you could use this as your guide on what to do and how to start your small business.

Step 1: It all starts with an idea.

Every business starts with that lightbulb moment or an inspiration. But if you truly want to succeed in this path, then you need to do either offer something new in the market or innovate a product or service already in the market.

There are tons of small businesses in the market today. Find something that is unique and will make you stand out from the rest.

Once you found your business idea, validate it. Check if the market truly needs it and is willing to pay for the price you offered. This way, you can see if your idea is worth risking or not.

Step 2: Choose a business name.

Choosing a business name is crucial and one of the difficult tasks you need to do as a business owner. The name represents your brand. It’s what people will refer to in case they want to go and try your product or service.

Make sure your chosen name is short, catchy, and easy to remember. Recall is very important in the success of your business.

Once you established your business name, make sure you register it with the DTI if you are a sole proprietor. This way, you have the first dibs on the name.

Step 3: Plan and establish your finances.

It’s not enough that you have a brilliant business idea or a catchy name. Unfortunately, you need capital to make that idea happen.

Now that you identified your business, it’s time to start planning on how and where to get the funds to put it up. Your savings may be a good source, but make sure you won’t consume all in case you’ll be needing some during emergencies.

Borrowing from family could also be a good idea. Pitch your business idea as a form of “investment” where they will earn. Borrowing from lenders like Balikbayad is also a good way to finance your business. Balikbayad offers loan facility for OFWs like you to help you jumpstart your entrepreneurial success.

You also have to make a list of your expenses. This includes but not limited to:

• Permits and license
• Initial inventory
• Market research
• Research and development
• Rent
• Taxes

Keep in mind that your business may not earn during the first two or three years. Having a back-up savings – probably in the form of Emergency Fund – could help you get through until you are able to see the fruits of your hard work.

Step 4: Apply for licenses and permits.

This is a MUST. In fact, one must never operate a business without the necessary permits and licenses. This will prevent you from facing legal obstacles later on.

That being said, what are the permits and licenses you should apply for:

• DTI business registration
• Barangay clearance
• Mayor’s permit or business permit
• Registration with the BIR for the business’ Tax Identification Number
• Other special permits needed based on the nature of your business such as FDA approval, NMIS, or BSP

Step 5: Maximize social media.

This is the easiest, cheapest, and most effective way to advertise your business. Create a Facebook page or sign up on Instagram, and ask friends and family to like and share.

Do you have to be on all social media platforms available? Not necessarily. You need to know where your target market is and focus on that platform. Sticking to one or two platforms is recommended and will make your business more manageable, too.

Following these steps won’t immediately guarantee success. Keep in mind that running a business is not a walk in the park. You will have bumps and challenges along the way, but you can surely weather them all. Good luck!

Financial literacy is something FIlipinos are lacking. Despite the advent of technology and Internet wherein information is easier to get, not many Filipinos are familiar with terms like “stock market,” “investment,” or “bonds.”

This is why both the government and private institutions are pushing for financial literacy programs to educate millions of people on how to handle money wisely.

This program is called PiTaKa, a partnership among BSP, OWWA, and BDO Foundation that provides financial literacy program to departing OFWs. In fact, this is mandatory and part of the PDOS program.

Do you really need it? Do you really have to be a financially literate person? The answer is yes, especially if you want to be wise about your money and handling finances. In fact, below are signs that you are financially literate:

Sign No. 1: Budgeting is part of your priorities.

It’s challenging to draw a line between needs and wants, especially when you are miles away from your family. Even if you want to save, you can’t help but give in to their demands just to wash away the guilt.

Still, being a financially literate person means you can identify what you really need from wants and capriciousness. You know what needs to be prioritized and you stick to it.

Sign No. 2: You have an Emergency Fund AND separate savings account.

One of the most common mistakes committed by OFWs is not saving enough during the rainy days. As a result, you end up borrowing money from friends, co-workers, and even loan sharks just to cover for those unforeseen expenses.

Being financially literate means you know the difference between Emergency Fund and Savings Account. You know that Emergency Fund will be used only, well, during emergencies. The amount should be able to sustain you and your family for at least three months in case something happens.

Then, there’s savings account, wherein you deposit and get money for you and your family’s needs. This should also be prioritized but unlike the Emergency Fund, you can get money from here when the situation calls for it.

Sign No. 3: You invest your money wisely.

Savings account is not enough if you want to live comfortably despite not working overseas. You know how to invest money and where to invest it.

The good news is you can start investing your money even for as low as P10,000. Explore your options and choose the investment option most suitable for you. Don’t forget to diversify your investment.

Sign No. 4: You can handle debts responsibly.

It’s okay to have debts. Sometimes, you need to get one especially on certain purchases like house or car. The challenge now is how do you handle these debts.

A financially literate person knows how to handle debts responsibly and wisely. You should be able to manage payments regularly and avoid missing payments. This way, debts won’t negatively affect your credit score.

This goes back to your budgeting skills wherein you allot a certain portion of your salary for debt repayment.

Sign No. 5: You set not just short but also long-term goals.

You cannot work overseas forever. At one point, you have to go back to the Philippines and look for means that will sustain you and your family.

That being said, a financially literate person has already set both short and long term goals that you plan to achieve. This serves as your guide to encourage you to work harder and save more.

Which among these signs do you possess? Don’t worry. It’s not too late to have a change of heart and action.

Are you planning to work on a cruise ship? Even if you have the necessary qualifications and completed the trainings required, you still need to have this one important document: Seaman’s Identification Record Book or popularly known as Seaman’s Book.

Also known as SIRB, the Seaman’s Book is a major requirement that allows you to work on shipping vessels. It will also serve as your Visa or passport when onboard a vessel or ship.

The question now is this: how can you get a Seaman’s Book?

Eligibility Requirements

Below are qualified to apply for Seaman’s Book as set forth by Maritime Industry Authority or MARINA:

• Filipino citizen
• At least 18 years of age
• Cadet, who must be at least 16 years of age, applying for issuance of SIRB for shipboard apprenticeship
• Must be engaged in any capacity onboard a Philippine-registered ship 35 GT and above OR intends to be engaged in foreign-flagged ship.

If the ship is engaged in domestic shipping operations, then Seaman’s Book is NOT required and are exempted from applying.

SIRB is also OPTIONAL for personnel onboard ships not engaged in commercial activity.

Documentary Requirements

If you are a new applicant, then you need to submit the photocopies or scanned copies of the following:

• PSA-issued Birth Certificate OR DFA-issued passport
• NBI Clearance – purpose must be for “VISA SEAMAN”
• Valid Basic Training. If you took Basic Seaman Training or BST, then make sure to include BT-Upgrading and BT-Refresher, whichever is applicable.
• Documentary stamp

If you are a cadet applying for shipboard apprenticeship, then you need to submit photocopies or scanned copies of the following:

• PSA-issued Birth Certificate
• Transcript of Records from MARINA-accredited Maritime Higher Education Institution
• NBI Clearance – indicate that the purpose must be for “VISA SEAMAN”
• Valid Basic Training. If you took Basic Seaman Training or BST, then make sure to include BT-Upgrading and BT-Refresher, whichever is applicable
• Documentary stamp

If you are planning to renew your Seaman’s Book, then photocopy or scanned copies of the following requirements must be submitted:

• Expired or expiring Seaman’s Book
• NBI Clearance – indicate that the purpose is for “VISA SEAMAN”
• Valid Basic Training. If you took Basic Seaman Training or BST, then make sure to include BT-Upgrading and BT-Refresher, whichever is applicable
• MARINA computerized photograph, which is strictly availed inside MARINA Office
• Documentary stamp

If you are a licensed officer, then bring photocopies or scanned copies of the requirements mentioned above as well as the following:

• MARINA ID
• Certificate of Proficiency
• Certificate of Endorsement
• Uniform for picture taking

Take note that for female, married applicants, if you want to change your name and carry that of your husband’s, presenting a Marriage Certificate is required.

Also, MARINA will only get photocopies of these requirements, but it is recommended that you bring the original documents for verification.

In case you’re wondering how much doc stamps is. it’s around P20. Don’t worry. This is not a form of “kickback” and will be remitted directly to the BIR.

Setting an Appointment through MARINA MISMO System

Now that you know the documents you need to prepare, it’s time to find out how to get your Seaman’s Book.

Decades ago, getting SIRB means lining up in the office and waiting for your turn. That’s not how it works anymore with the help of MARINA Online Application. In fact, you can set up an appointment or schedule when you can process your Seaman’s Book.

Here’s how:

1. Go to MARINA MISMO website or click this link.
2. If you already have an existing account, then click Sign In. Otherwise, click Sign Up to create an account.
3. When signing up, fill out the required information and accept the terms and conditions. Make sure to verify your email address to complete the registration process. 

At this point, you can now make an appointment. Before you do that, you need to do the following steps:

1. Sign in to the MARINA MISMO homepage. Don’t forget to tick the CAPTCHA box to confirm that you are a real person.
2. Fill out the required information and then upload a valid profile picture.
3. Check the page to see if all the information is correct. Make necessary changes and then click Save Changes located on the upper left side of the screen.
4. Choose Select Transaction.
5. Click the SIRB tab.
6. Choose your preferred processing time: Regular or Expedite.
7. Select your preferred MARINA branch.
8. Tick the box for the kind of transaction you will make: New, Re-issuance or Lost/Damaged
9. Tick the box on the bottom saying “I hereby declare that my profile and service records is updated.” Then, click Proceed.
10. You will be redirected again to the Application Information window. It will show application details as well as the requirements you need to accomplish.
11. Upload the scanned copies of the documents listen on the screen. Take note that the file size must be 1MB or less. Once you’re done uploading the documents, click Submit.

Your profile and uploaded documents will be checked and verified by an online evaluator from MARINA. This usually takes 24 hours or longer, depending on the volume of applications received by the agency.

If approved, then you will be contacted, informing you that your application is approved and you’re ready to schedule an appointment.

In case you are rejected, log in to your account, choose Application tab, and click View Details. You will see the status of your documents and give you a feedback as to why your application was not approved.

How to Schedule an Appointment through MISMO System

1. Log in to the MISMO System, click the Application Tab.
2. Choose For Appointment button.
3. The Slot Locator tab will open.
4. Choose the MARINA branch that is nearest your place. Choose your preferred time as well.
5. Once you’re done choosing your schedule, click Proceed. It should display a window saying, “Appointment Set Successfully!”

After setting an appointment, you need to pay for the fees in relation to your application. Here’s how to pay the fees:

1. After successfully setting an appointment, you will be redirected to the Payment page. Take time to read the guidelines on how to pay for your application.
2. Click Proceed and then click Confirm.
3. You will receive a text message from MARINA, which also includes a payment reference number. Make sure to take note of it because this will be used when you make a payment.
4. Pay the corresponding fee in MARINA partner payment centers. Take note that the payment reference number only has 24-hour validity, which means you need to pay within 24 hours. Otherwise, you have to re-do your application process.

That’s it. Don’t forget to bring the original copies of the documents you submitted for verification. Once verified, your Seaman’s Book will be released.

One of the most common concerns among returning OFWs is what to do once they get back.

Where should you get your OEC? What are the procedures you need to do so you can go back to your country of deployment legally and without any issue? Can you still go back to your work abroad even if you don’t have a previous record with the POEA?

Last March 14, 2019, the POEA issued Memorandum Circular No. 02, Series of 2019 to address these concerns.

If you are any of the following, then make sure you read this:

• Returning and documented OFW;
• Workers with no existing deployment record with the POEA or POLO;
• Workers who transferred or entered into a new employment contract from one employer to another.

Setting an Appointment Through BM Online System

This is important. In fact, all of the workers mentioned above must set an appointment through the BM Online System. You can choose your preferred date and time in any POEA or POLO Offices to get your OEC. OEC will serve as your Exit Pass as well as exemption to airport fees and travel tax.

In case you are returning to the same employer and jobsite, you may avail of the OEC exemption, which you can acquire through the BM Online System.

Check out this post on how to use the BM Online System and acquire OEC exemption.

For Returning, Documented OFWs Vacationing for the First Time and Returning to Same Employer and Jobsite:

1. At least six months passport validity from the date of intended departure.
2. Valid visa and/or work permit.
3. Employment contract.
4. Any other proof of existing employment that the worker will return to the same employer and jobsite. This includes but not limited to company ID, recent payslip, and Certificate of Employment.

Take note that for domestic workers, overseas performing artists, masseurs, construction workers, cleaners, and other workers who have not returned to their employers within six months from arrival in the Philippines, the employment contract must be verified / authenticated by the POLO, Embassy, or Consulate.

For Workers with Existing POEA Record and Returning to the Same Employer But Different Country or Jobsite

1. At least six months passport validity from the date of intended departure.
2. Valid visa and/or work permit
3. Original copy of valid employment contract. Said contract must be verified / authenticated by the POLO, Embassy, or Consulate.
4. Any other proof of existing employment that the worker will return to the same employer and jobsite. This includes but not limited to company ID, recent payslip, and Certificate of Employment
5. Letter from the employer attesting to the transfer of jobsite of the worker.

For Workers Not Yet Registered with the POEA or Change of Employer But Same Jobsite

1. At least six months passport validity from the date of intended departure.
2. Valid visa and/or work permit
3. Original copy of valid employment contract and verified by POLO OR authenticated by the Embassy or Consulate.
4. Any other proof of existing employment that the worker will return to the same employer and jobsite. This includes but not limited to company ID, recent payslip, and Certificate of Employment
5. Worker’s sworn statement explaining how s/he was hired by the employer.

It is imperative that you take note of these requirements, whichever is applicable to your status as OFW. This way, you can pass through the Immigration easily and reduce your risk of being offloaded.

Who doesn’t want additional income? This is why it’s not surprising if you decide to take on that third side job or that “raket” offered by a fellow OFW. After all, every peso counts.

Still, you want something more sustainable. This is why you decided to put up your own business for additional income. One of the easiest businesses you could do is buy-and-sell of items. You buy items from the country where you’re working and sell these in the Philippines.

What is the most convenient way to sell your products? Online.

Here are tips on how you could effectively sell your products in the World Wide Web:

Tip No. 1: Choose ONE selling platform.

There are tons of options available that you could use to sell your items online. You can sell it on selling sites like OLX, Lazada, or Ebay.ph.

Facebook Marketplace and Instagram are also good options when it comes to selling platforms. Filipinos are often glued on their phones and check social media regularly, which means there is a higher possibility that your products will be seen.

You can also try shopping apps such as Shopee or Carousel since these apps are slowly getting tons of followers.

Still, don’t get overwhelmed. If you plan to sell online, then you need to focus on one selling platform first. If you choose Facebook, then sell on Facebook first and explore other options later on. This way, you can easily manage your online store and conveniently check messages for inquiries. Updating your inventory is also easier because you are only focused on just one platform.

Therefore, choose a platform that is easier for you to navigate. Focus on that first and once you’ve established your followers, move on to the next.

Tip No. 2: Take good pictures.

This is a must. If you want to seal the deal, then you need to make sure that you captivate your customer with just one look. One of the best ways to do this is by taking good pictures.

A good camera helps, but getting the perfect lighting is the key in making your pictures stand out. Take different angles so potential sellers will see and appreciate more the products that you are selling.

Tip No. 3: Don’t skimp on your product description.

A picture is worth thousand words but this doesn’t mean you’ll rely on it all the time. When you post your item, make sure you describe it as clearly as possible.

Include but not limited to:

• Price, which is preferably a reasonable one
• Color
• Size / Weight
• Features of the product
• Material
• Condition of the item

Describing your product as thoroughly as possible reduces chatting that may not lead to sales. Once the customer sees what you are offering with all relevant information written there, she has to decide whether or not to grab the deal by contacting you.

Tip No. 4: Gimmicks help.

It’s not enough that you sell an item from abroad. You need to offer something to Filipinos to entice them to buy what you posted online.

Therefore, be creative. Think of “gimmicks” so that people will know you. If you just started, an introductory price good for x number of days is a good way to start. Offer discount or freebies for first 10 customers. Free shipping is another option, which many people will take advantage of.

Buy 1, Take 1 deal is also enticing for potential customers so if you could accommodate that, then good.

The point is be creative. You want people to get to know you and buy your product, so take this seriously.

Tip No. 5: Make it a habit to check the product.

This is another must. The last thing you need is customers contacting you and complaining about damaged items. This could ruin your reputation, which is something you need to avoid.

Before shipping the product, check it first. Reputation is everything when it comes to the world of online selling.

One of the things OFWs would want to buy is a house. After all, who doesn’t want to have a place they could call their own, right?

Here’s the next question: what type of house should you buy? Should you go for a brand-new house or pre-owned?

The truth is you can buy any. Before you do, you need to know the pros and cons of buying brand new or a pre-owned house to help you decide better.

Let’s Go for a Brand-New House

When we say brand new house, we mean houses or condominium units built by real estate developers. It’s a different case if you simply bought a property and have someone construct your dream home.

Below are the pros of buying a brand-new house:

• The design of the house is modern and contemporary since it was built according to the latest trends.
• You don’t need to worry about repairs since the house was newly-constructed. In fact, everything is new.
• Minimal changes can be done, which you must address during the construction phase. Nonetheless, this is applicable if you will be buying a house constructed by a real estate company.
• You can easily design and personalize the house according to your own preferences.

On the other hand, here are the downside of buying brand new:

• The selling price is higher. Real estate tends to increase in value, so you need to consider the selling price first before you say yes.
• If you will be buying in a subdivision, then the house will look the same as the rest. Still, you could make minor changes outside that will set your house apart from the rest.
• Room for price negotiation is limited.
• The space and interior of the house may be limited since developers follow a specific layout.

That being said, you still need to check on the legitimacy and trustworthiness of the developer. Inspection is also a must, so make sure you schedule an ocular visit to get to feel the neighborhood.

Pre-Owned Home is the Way to Go

Let’s say you decided to go for a pre-owned house. That’s fine.

Here are the good things about buying this type of house:

• Price is lower compared to brand-new houses. Some are even willing to sell it market value just to sell the property.
• Speaking of prices, there is more room for negotiation. This is why house inspection is important so that you could see the condition of the house and negotiate according to the present condition.
• There are more options that could suit your preferences. In fact, you could see houses that hit all of the requirements in your checklist.

Consequently, there are downsides to buying a pre-owned house. This includes:

• You need to consider repairs and/or renovation. Pre-owned house means someone lived there. You have to check every tiny detail and make repairs to make sure that the house is liveable. Make sure you address leaks and pests since this could compromise the integrity of the house. You might even be tempted to change locks, overhaul certain parts of the house, and do re-painting jobs.
• There is semblance of the past. The pre-owned house was built years ago, which means there are portions of the house that reflect the trends from the past. If this doesn’t suit you, then you might want to include this in your renovation plans.
• Whether you like it or not, someone lived in that house. You might not be comfortable with that idea, which means getting a brand-new house is more suitable for you.

Should you decide to buy a second-hand home, make sure you make thorough inspection. It’s hard to back out once you decide to say yes to a particular house.

Congratulations. Finally, you have a place you can call your home. It’s not easy because you and your family have to give up several balikbayan boxes and travel plans for years to make sure that you can buy a place of your own. At least now, you can come home to a place that belongs to you and you don’t have to worry about where to live come retirement.

Apparently, owning a home comes with responsibilities – sometimes, a costly one. In fact, paying for the house is just a small chunk of being a homeowner. There are tons of responsibilities and obligations that come with it, which you need to prepare for.

Here are your obligations you need to prepare for as a homeowner:

Payment of Association Dues

This is applicable if you bought a condominium unit or a property inside a village with an existing homeowner’s association.

Association dues or monthly dues are fees collected by the homeowner’s association from its members. The amount usually depends on the size of the property, although some associations agree on a uniform and reasonable amount.

Payment of association dues allows you to enjoy benefits within the community such as the use of common areas and facilities and provision for security among others. In case of default, you may not be allowed to enjoy these benefits.

Monthly Amortizations

Just like majority of Filipinos, you decided to get a housing loan to finance the purchase of your dream home. You can apply for one from banks, government institutions like PAG-IBIG, or private lenders.

When you get a housing loan, this means every month, you will pay principal and interest amount for x number of years.

You need to prepare for this. Failure to pay your monthly amortization may lead to foreclosure of your property. This means the house you paid for might be taken away from you and you surely don’t want that to happen.

Before you decide to buy a house, make sure you have sufficient funds to cover for the amortization. This way, even if you are no longer working overseas, you could still pay your loan.

Real Property Tax

According to the Local Government Code, the local government unit may impose yearly fee on all types of real estate. This fee is a certain percentage of the property’s assessed value, which means the bigger the property, the higher the real property tax or RPT will be.

Each municipality has its own policies on the collection of RPT. The Quezon City government gives 20 percent discount until March 31 of every year for early payment of RPT. Some cities allow discount up to January 31 only.

Regardless, you can pay RPT in full or every quarter. It is best that you pay for the entire year so you don’t have to worry about taxes for the rest of the year. You can not only enjoy discount but also lessen the risk of being a delinquent taxpayer.

Don’t underestimate non-payment of real property tax since you could potentially lose your home.

Regular Maintenance

Apart from your financial obligations, you are also expected to perform certain tasks as a homeowner.

Just like any other things you own, wear and tear could be an issue that you need to address as soon as possible. There will be leaks in the roof, broken doors or cabinets, pipe issues, and the list goes on.

Always make sure you set aside a portion of your income to cover for these maintenance expenses. You need to prioritize this, otherwise, you could compromise the integrity of your home, which you don’t want to happen.

Being a homeowner is about responsibility. Take note of these obligations and surely, your home will reward you with safety, security, comfort, and peace of mind.

Where do you plan to use your hard-earned money from working overseas? Surely, you would want to have sufficient savings for the rainy days, set aside money for your kids’ tuition fee, pay off existing debts, and buy a place you could call your home.

Yes, your home.

Apparently, buying a house, regardless of its type, requires money – big amount of money. Because of this, you might hear some people say you consider buying foreclosed property since it is cheaper and easier on the wallet.

Don’t get too excited. Here are several things you need to remember before you say to a foreclosed property:

Tip No. 1: Location, location, location.

This is one, if not the most important consideration when buying a property in general. Ideally, your future home must be near establishments like school, hospital, malls, or grocery stores. You also need to check whether or not the property is located in the fault line or in flood-prone area.

Don’t forget to check the surroundings because you surely don’t want to live near slaughterhouses, squatters, or garbage dump. Ask about the crime rate incidence because safety of your family is something you need to consider as well.

Tip No. 2: Check the current condition of the property.

You are looking for a place that you could potentially call your home. This is why it is imperative that you inspect the house before you pay. After all, foreclosed properties are often sold in “as is, where is” basis, which means expect that the house is not in tiptop condition.

Wear and tear is normal, especially when the house has been existing for years. If you see that the property needs extensive repairs because you saw cracks on the walls, termite infestation, or rotting wood among many others, then you might want to reconsider your choice. In fact, questionable structural integrity could be a red flag.

Paint job or changing the door knobs is fine, but if you need to shell a big amount for the repairs due to structural flaw, then the property may not be worth it.

Tip No. 3: Know the costs involved.

Buying a foreclosed property doesn’t end with paying the selling price. In fact, there are many other costs you need to pay for such as:

• Capital Gains Tax, although this is usually shouldered by the seller
• Documentary Stamp Tax
• Transfer Tax
• Real Property Tax
• Association dues if the property is a condominium or a part of homeowner’s association
• Repairs to be done on the property

In other words, you need to factor in these costs plus any other additional costs to check whether or not you are getting a good deal. This should be considered because you might be surprised to find out that buying a brand-new property is cheaper.

Tip No. 4: Establish your budget.

How much are you willing to pay for your dream home?

The price of your choice of property is dependent on its location. This means if you are eyeing for a house in Quezon City, then you need to prepare a big amount. If you are willing to spend up to P3 million only, then you need to look outside Quezon City where properties are more affordable.

What if you don’t have enough cash on hand? Then you might consider financing. Banks and private lenders offer financing options to help you buy your home at affordable interest rate.

Take note that even though financing is available, you still need to cash out a certain percentage of the selling price. Having a cash on hand is also important especially when you buy foreclosed properties during auctions.

Tip No. 5: Work with banks or accredited broker.

Scammers or people with bad intentions often look for people who could easily fall into their trap. Oftentimes, they take advantage of OFWs because you are easier to convince.

Well, don’t be a victim. When it comes to buying foreclosed properties, it is best to work with banks or accredited real estate brokers. They will help you every step of the way and guide you to ensure that the sale is as smooth-sailing as possible.

You wouldn’t want to end up with a problematic property, do you?

Finally, a much deserved vacation for you. You were allowed by your boss to go home for a week so you want to make sure that you make the most out of your stay. What’s the best way to spend time with them?

Well, there are tons of options but with limited time, you could try staycation.

“Mahal yan,” you might say.

That’s true. Still, there are hotels across the metro that are within your budget but don’t compromise quality of service. In case you’re interested, here are some options for you:

Privato Hotel, Ortigas

Privato Hotel is a business and lifestyle hotel located in Pasig. It is also located near Capitol Commons and Ortigas Center Business District, making malls like SM Megamall and Ayala Mall’s The 30th more accessible.

The hotel currently has 177 Italian-inspired with contemporary style rooms that will surely make you feel at home – without hurting your wallet. Your kids will love the pool area and if you’re thinking of having a relaxing view, eat dinner at the hotel’s Roofdeck.

Room rate starts at P1,907 per night.

Kabayan Hotel, Pasay

Staying overseas will surely make you miss not just your family but also the Philippines. If you want to experience that Filipino hospitality, then Kabayan Hotel in Pasay City should be part of your list.

Currently, the hotel has 276 rooms, each one offering a certain level of comfort. It also have Kapsule beds that will surely give you a glimpse of Japanese life. There’s also a free shuttle to and from SM Mall of Asia, which is perfect pasyalan for your family.

The best part is that the hotel has a dedicated OFW Center that is meant to provide you with a comfortable home.

Room rate starts at P3,481 per night

B Hotel, Quezon City and Alabang

In case you’re looking for Instagram-worthy hotel, then B Hotel might not fail you. Its sleek, modern, and industrial interiors set it apart from the other hotels in the metro.

If you’re staying in Quezon City branch, the hotel is walking distance to Tomas Morato area. On the other hand, the Alabang branch is strategically-located at Madrigal Business Park, thereby making “malling” easier for you.

Room rate starts at P3,268 per night. It also offers discounted rate if it’s your birthday month with free birthday cake.

The Legend Villas, Mandaluyong

If you insist on anything Filipino-related instead of the more modern venues, then you could try The Legend Villas in Mandaluyong. This 100 percent Filipino-owned hotel offers luxurious feel without hurting your budget. It also has its Old World charm – from Venetian glass-framed mirrors to curved staircase to Filipino design of rooms – in an urban setting. Amenities like swimming pool, gym, and restaurants are there as well.

We suggest that you get the Deluxe Room for your family, which is spacious enough to fit a family of four OR the Team Suite, which has dining and living areas.

Room rate starts at P3,300 per night. You might want to book in advance, at least 10 days before your scheduled arrival, to avail up to 20 percent discount on room rate.

KL Serviced Residences, Makati

Makati is the place to be because it has everything you need – food, places to see, malls, and the list goes on. If you want to explore the country’s premier business district with your family, then consider staying in KL Serviced Residences.

This apartment-style comes with amenities that will make you feel at home. If you’re willing to spend a little extra, opt for two-bedroom suite, which has fully functional kitchen and dining area. Internet is not a problem as well, so you could stay connected at work just in case.

Room rate starts at P2,440 per night. You could also get deals from coupon websites for discount on bigger rooms.