How to Protect Your Savings From Inflation in 2026: A Financial Planner's Guide

Inflation is easing on paper, but savings sitting in cash are still losing value every month. In this guide, financial planner David Angway breaks down where your money actually holds up in 2026, from gold and dollars to real estate, and the moves that quietly hurt you if you get the order wrong

FINANCIAL LITERACY

David Isaiah Angway RFP

8/6/20263 min read

David Isaiah Angway RFP


0:00
Welcome to Follow the Money with David Angway, RFP

0:38 July inflation eases to 6.2%, but here's the disconnect

2:00 Why food and electricity are really running at 8.2%

3:56 Where should everyday Filipinos keep their money?

5:00 How much purchasing power is idle cash losing right now

6:03 Gold, real estate, or dollars: which inflation hedge actually works

7:41 Foreclosures and pasalo deals: opportunity in a slowing market

8:17 Advice for real estate investors falling behind on payments

8:55 Why does relying on one income stream cost people 10 million pesos

9:54 How many income streams do you actually need?

11:17 The "smart" financial move that backfires during inflation

12:35 How to know when it's time to exit an investment

16:41 Should you take out a loan or wait right now?

19:26 Buy now or wait: consumer electronics during inflation

21:35 When to refinance or pay off debt more aggressively

22:33 Getting past the shame of asking for financial help

23:00 Red flags to watch for in loan apps

24:13 Rapid-fire round

26:24 Closing thoughts and what's next

TLDR

Philippine Inflation Eased to 6.2% (But Feels Like 8%). Here's Why and How to Protect Your Money.
Philippine inflation eased to 6.2% in July, but for many families feeling the sting of rising food and electricity costs, the real rate feels closer to 8%. In this interview with Robert Tan on Billionaire News Channel's Follow the Money, David Isaiah Angway, RFP, CWA, CTEP, explains the gap and offers actionable advice for navigating these challenging economic times.


Key Takeaways from David Isaiah Angway:

  • Real Inflation Is Higher: The headline 6.2% figure is an average; the inflation rate for essentials like food and electricity is closer to 8.2%. This isn't a personal spending problem; it's systemic.

  • Create a Second Source of Income: Instead of cutting back further, focus on creative ways to generate a second income stream to combat the real impact of inflation.

  • Protect Your Cash: Savings accounts with low interest rates are losing purchasing power against inflation. Consider inflation hedges like the US dollar and gold. Real estate, particularly foreclosed properties (pasalo deals), can also be an opportunity.

  • Avoid the Single-Income-Stream Mistake: Don't rely solely on one income source, even if you're wealthy. Focus on sequencing—mastering one stream before scaling or funding the next.

  • Diversify Your Portfolio: Avoid betting everything on a single asset class. Regularly reassess your investments and be prepared to cut losses when necessary.

  • Use Debt Strategically: Take out loans only if the potential return on investment significantly outweighs the cost of borrowing. Avoid debt for hobby expenses.

  • Monitor Your Debt Ratio: Maintain a healthy debt ratio (around 30%) and take action if it exceeds 35% by paying down debt or selling underperforming assets.

  • Seek Professional Advice: Don't let shame or guilt prevent you from seeking financial guidance. Talking to a professional is a proactive step towards financial stability.

  • Don't Neglect Estate Planning: Protect your family's long-term wealth by creating a clear and comprehensive estate plan.

Actionable Advice for Your Finances:

  • Calculate Your Real Inflation Rate: Track your family's spending on essentials to understand the true impact of inflation on your budget.

  • Explore Second Income Opportunities: Identify skills or hobbies that could generate additional income.

  • Diversify Your Investments: Review your portfolio and consider spreading your investments across different asset classes.

  • Set Exit Triggers: Before making any investment, determine your exit points in advance to avoid making emotional decisions.

  • Evaluate Debt Carefully: Assess the potential risks and rewards before taking out any loans.

  • Consult a Financial Advisor: Get professional advice to help you navigate these complex financial challenges.

  • Create an Estate Plan: Protect your family's future by ensuring a smooth wealth transfer.

Book a one-on-one estate planning session with David Isaiah Angway, RFP, CWA, CTEP, to make sure what you and your family are building actually has a plan behind it.

Visit davidangway.com to schedule your consultation.

© 2026 David Angway