Filipino Christmas Spending: Smart Holiday Tips 2025

Bilyonaryo news channel interview#5

I had the opportunity to have a sit-down talk with Robert Bantug regarding Christmas Bonuses.

David, Christmas in the Philippines starts as early as September. From your perspective, what spending behaviors make our holiday season unique?

Filipino Christmas spending is unique in that it combines tradition, social pressure, and economic factors.

It's not just consumerism; it's a financial expression of values: utang na loob (debt of gratitude), family, hospitality, and faith. The extended timeline, the reliance on the 13th-month pay, and the obligation to provide for a wide circle—not just a nuclear family—create a financial phenomenon that is both a massive driver of the national economy and a significant source of stress for many Filipino households. It's a time of joyful generosity that is meticulously, and often expensively, budgeted for throughout the year.

The 13th-month pay is often treated like a shopping fund. What’s the smartest way to use it without ending up broke by January?

Think of your 13th-month pay as a second chance fund. You can use it to start a business, try something new, or pay off debt. To get the most out of your bonus, try putting 50% toward paying off debts, especially high-interest credit cards. This can really help your financial health. Set aside 30% for future investments like stocks or savings. If you’re just starting out, a mutual fund or an index fund is a good option. These usually offer a good balance of risk and reward. Use the last 20% for celebrating or holiday spending. You can save money by having a potluck with friends or setting a limit on gift prices. This way, you can enjoy the holidays and keep your finances in check.

Many Filipinos suffer from a “holiday wallet hangover.” What’s the biggest cause of this, and how can people avoid it?

If you often feel broke after the holidays, the problem might not be your income but your money habits. Many Filipinos feel uneasy when they have savings because they’re not used to it. The key is to build your savings regularly. Try setting up an automatic transfer so part of your salary goes straight to savings every payday, even if you earn minimum wage. For example, save 10% each month. Most banks let you schedule these transfers online. If not, set reminders to move the money yourself or ask your bank for help. This habit demonstrates that having a system is more important than how much you earn. You can also categorize your savings into separate accounts, such as investments, emergency funds, or personal growth. Some of my clients use their bonuses to buy stocks, mutual funds, or even start rental properties.

That’s why I also advocate this, “Check the ROI before you buy!”

Peer pressure and utang na loob often push us to overspend. How can we demonstrate generosity without compromising our finances?

Start planning a few months before Christmas. Make a list of people you want to thank and set aside a generosity fund for giving back. This is similar to the bayanihan spirit, where everyone helps each other. Planning your giving enables you to stay generous without overspending. Use lists to track your spending and balance tradition with smart money habits. Budgeting apps like Mint, YNAB, Goodbudget, or simple spreadsheets on Google Sheets or Excel can help you keep track. Try not to rely on mental notes so you don’t lose track of your budget.

Credit card promos and buy-now-pay-later offers are tempting during Christmas. Should people avoid them, or can they be used responsibly?


Credit cards and buy-now-pay-later options can be helpful, but they can also lead to problems if you’re not careful. If you use a credit card for gifts, keep track of what you spend and pay your bill on time to avoid debt. Before using BNPL, ask yourself if the purchase is really worth it or if it might cause trouble later. These tools only work well if you manage your money wisely. Try waiting 24 hours before making a big purchase with a credit card or BNPL. This pause gives you time to think and helps prevent impulse buying.

For OFWs and employees who see Christmas as their time to give back, how can they celebrate meaningfully without creating long-term debt?

It’s important to know when to say no and set limits on your spending. I know someone who spent 100,000 pesos on a family trip. That’s okay if it’s just a small part of your savings, but not if it’s everything you have. Family gatherings can be emotional, but try to keep celebrations small and just with your closest loved ones. You can also avoid extra costs by not announcing your arrival. To keep good relationships and manage your money, practice saying no politely. For example, you can say, 'I appreciate the invitation, but I’ve already set my budget for this month,' or 'Thank you for thinking of me, but I have to focus on other expenses right now.' This helps you protect your finances and keep good relationships.

Parents want Christmas to be magical for their kids. How can families create joy while teaching financial discipline?

Parents can teach kids that creating value is important. Filipinos are hardworking, but it’s also good to show children that money represents the value of their efforts. Even during the holidays, having kids do chores helps them understand this. Giving to charities as a family can also be a meaningful experience for everyone.

After the pandemic, saving became a priority. How can Filipinos balance celebrating now with preparing for tomorrow?

Balancing your spending is all about planning. It’s not always easy to keep track, but being disciplined with your money can help you reach your goals. Living within your means is the key to building wealth. Try using a simple one-page tracker to record your income, holiday expenses, and savings each week in December. This can help you see where your money goes and keep you on track during the holidays.

What’s the wiser choice for Filipinos giving cash or material gifts and why?

Giving cash is easy, but material gifts can be more meaningful. I suggest giving cash only when it’s really needed. Instead, try thoughtful, affordable gifts that leave a lasting impression. For example, write a heartfelt letter, bake some homemade treats, or make a photo album with special memories. These gifts can mean a lot without costing much.

For small business owners, Christmas is both a boom season and spending season. What’s your best advice to maximize gains while controlling costs?

If you run a small business, think about investing in employee parties and fun events like raffles. Keeping your best employees is your biggest advantage. Since many employees only stay for two to three years, making them happy can help your business stay strong next year.

If you could change one Filipino Christmas money habit to make it more sustainable, what would it be? And

Spending without thinking about the future can cause problems. Some people treat credit cards like they have no limit, but remember, you’ll need to pay the bill in 30 days, just like using a debit card.

What’s the single most important financial lesson Filipinos should take with them this Christmas?

Life is too short to spend only on yourself. Try to give thoughtfully and learn when to say no to others.

About the author

Currently managing over ₱948 million in client risk portfolios—structured for protection, discretion, and generational impact—I work with those navigating high-stakes decisions around wealth, succession, and legacy.

With 13+ years in financial services, I serve as a strategic partner to high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and driven professionals across the Philippines. My credentials include Chartered Wealth Advisor, Chartered Trust & Estate Planner, and a former Certified Investment Solicitor at JPMorgan Chase & Co.

I specialize in turning complexity into clarity—through estate planning, risk management, and multigenerational wealth strategy. Since 2016, I’ve also empowered teams in 50+ organizations via financial wellness talks, leadership training, and executive coaching.

You may have seen my work featured on TEDx, Bloomberg, ANC On the Money, Rappler, Bilyonaryo News Channel, and more. I speak, write, and advise on the silent risks affluent families often overlook—and the frameworks that protect their influence.

If you lead a high-stakes life and want a trusted partner behind the curtain, we should connect.