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Showing posts with label Money. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Money. Show all posts

In the Philippines, it’s common for families to pitch in to support a student’s higher education. While that sense of shared responsibility is admirable, the costs of sending a student to a renowned college or university can still be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. Moreover, not everyone has the privilege of having a reliable support network to help with educational funding.



The good news? Starting early can make a big difference. With time on your side, even small steps can lead to a meaningful college fund. Here are practical tips to help you get started while your kids are young.


1. Start as Early as Possible—Now, if You Haven’t Done So Yet

The earlier you start saving, the more time your money has to grow. Starting while your little one is still small means that their college fund can grow with them. You don’t need to put away large amounts right away. The key is consistency. Even ₱500 or ₱1,000 a month can add up over the years, especially if you’re putting it in an interest-earning account.

Starting early also means you can afford to take a more gradual and less stressful approach. You avoid last-minute panic and can focus on building a solid foundation for your child’s future.


2. Open a Dedicated College Fund Account

It’s very easy to dip into savings or emergency funds when everything’s mixed together. To avoid this common pitfall, open a separate account specifically for your child’s education. This helps you keep the funds untouched and growing. Many local digital banks like Maya offer goal-based savings accounts designed for education or long-term objectives. Having a separate account lets you keep your college savings organized, get a clearer picture of how much you’ve saved so far, and prevent the temptation to use the money for other expenses.



3. Explore Time Deposit Options

If you're looking for a safe and relatively low-risk way to grow your savings, a time deposit is worth considering. This type of savings account offers higher-than-average interest rates in exchange for keeping your funds in your account for a set period of time. You can ask your bank relationship manager to see how a time deposit account can help you maximize your college savings. There are also digital banks like Maya with their own time deposit offerings.

Here’s how it works:

  • You deposit a fixed amount for a set period (e.g., Maya’s time deposits have 3-, 6-, or 12-month terms).

  • Your money earns interest, and you can withdraw it once the term ends.

  • Some banks let you roll over the deposit to keep earning without lifting a finger.

It’s a good option for funds you won’t need right away but want to grow securely over time.



4. Set Clear Savings Goals

Knowing your target amount gives you direction when deciding how much you should save. Start by estimating how much a college education might cost by the time your child comes of age. Don’t forget to factor in inflation, tuition increases, and other expenses like transportation, school supplies, and possible lodging. Next, break the amount into monthly or annual savings goals. For example, if you want to save ₱500,000 over 15 years, that’s around ₱2,800 per month. If you’re starting later or saving less, adjust your expectations or plan to supplement with scholarships and loans later on.

All in all, having a number to aim for makes the process more tangible and keeps you motivated.


5. Involve Family in Small Ways

It’s not out of the ordinary for relatives to give cash gifts to children during birthdays, Christmas, or special occasions. Instead of spending it all on toys or clothes, why not set aside a portion for the college fund?

You can even let your child know, as they grow older, that some of their “angpao” or gift money is helping build their future. This instills the value of saving early on. Plus, letting your relatives know that you’re saving their gifts for a college fund can inspire them to contribute more meaningfully to this financial goal.


6. Look into Education Insurance or Investment Plans

Some financial institutions offer insurance or investment-linked plans specifically designed for education. These plans usually combine life insurance coverage with regular contributions that grow over time. They can be more complex than regular savings, so make sure to read the fine print and ask lots of questions before committing. That said, if you prefer to stay hands-off and want a long-term structured plan, this could be a good fit for your family.


7. Be Open to Scholarships and Grants Later On

While it’s great to save early, you don’t need to shoulder the full cost of college on your own. Many schools offer merit-based or need-based scholarships, and there are also government programs that can help cover tuition or fees. Keeping your child’s grades strong and being active in school can open doors to these opportunities. Think of your early savings as the foundation, and these potential programs as valuable add-ons.

Preparing for your child’s college education doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially if you start early and stay consistent. By building smart habits and choosing the right tools, you can create a strong financial cushion that will ease future expenses and give your child a great start. With a little planning today, you’re already helping shape their tomorrow.

7 Tips for Building an Early College Fund for Your Young Children


The Social Security System (SSS) and the Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank) have announced the launch of the MySSS Card, a new innovation designed to provide millions of Filipinos with a single, powerful tool for both government transactions and financial services.



The MySSS Card is a two-in-one product that functions as an official SSS-recognized ID while also serving as a UnionBank-powered Visa debit card. This landmark partnership aims to accelerate digital inclusion and provide a secure, convenient way for SSS members to manage their finances, especially for those who are unbanked.



"This partnership marks a major step forward in making government services more accessible and efficient for our members," said Robert Joseph M. De Claro, President and CEO of SSS.

"The MySSS Card empowers our members with a secure and convenient way to receive their benefits, while also serving as an official SSS-recognized ID."



The card enables SSS members to receive their benefits, loans, and refunds directly into a UnionBank savings account. Applicants can request the MySSS Card via the UnionBank Online app, which provides access to a full suite of digital banking features and the ability to make worldwide Visa transactions.



The initiative is expected to have a broad impact, with over 40 million Filipinos holding a PhilSys ID now eligible for the MySSS Card. This new offering builds on a previous SSS-UnionBank partnership that has already issued hundreds of thousands of cards since October 2022.



Ana Aboitiz Delgado, President and CEO of UnionBank, described the collaboration as a "game-changer" in reshaping the Philippine banking landscape. “Together with SSS, we are once again reimagining what banking can be like for millions of Filipinos,” she said. “We are proud to be partners in this initiative that enhances financial inclusion.”

The MySSS Card is set to roll out soon, promising a faster, safer, and smarter way for members to manage their government-related and financial transactions. Members are encouraged to stay tuned for the official release and monitor updates through UnionBank's official channels.


Read More SSS Guides . . .


SSS, UnionBank Launch Two-in-One MySSS Card to Boost Financial Inclusion


For many Filipinos, the idea of retirement is often tied to a single source of income: the pension from the Social Security System (SSS) or the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). But with the rising cost of living, inflation, and healthcare, a critical question arises: is a pension enough?



The reality is, relying solely on a fixed pension might not be enough to live comfortably. While a pension offers stability, a comprehensive retirement plan in the modern world requires a strategic mix of different income streams. Let’s break down the pros and cons of pensions versus key investment options like Pag-IBIG MP2 and dividend-paying stocks or REITs.



SSS / GSIS Pension: The Stable but Insufficient Safety Net

A pension is a powerful tool because it provides a guaranteed, lifelong income. As long as you're alive, you'll receive a monthly amount. However, its primary drawback is its fixed nature.

  • Fixed Amount: While it's possible to receive a pension of P20,000 per month, this is often reserved for those with the highest contributions over many years.

  • Common Reality: More commonly, retirees find their monthly pension to be a modest P5,000 to P8,000, even after decades of contributions.

  • The Big Question: Can P8,000 a month truly cover today's expenses, especially with the costs of utilities, food, and the essential maintenance medication that comes with age?

Furthermore, your pension stops when you pass away, unless a qualified dependent is eligible to continue receiving it. It's a lifeline, but one that may not be enough to thrive on.




Pag-IBIG MP2: Safe, Simple, and Reliable Growth

For those seeking a low-risk, government-backed option, the Pag-IBIG MP2 program is one of the best choices. It offers a 5-year lock-in period and has historically delivered robust annual returns, hovering between 6% to 7% in recent years.

  • Example: If you save P5,000 per month, your total contributions after 5 years would be P300,000. Including the dividends, your savings could grow to approximately P358,000.

  • Long-Term Potential: If you consistently renew your savings for 20 years, your initial contributions could grow to over P2.3 million. Reinvesting the dividends over several 5-year cycles could push this figure to over P3 million.

This is a perfect option for anyone who wants guaranteed, secure growth without the volatility of the stock market. You can even start with as little as P500 per month.



Dividend Stocks & REITs: Building a Passive Income Stream

For those with a higher risk tolerance and a longer time horizon, investing in dividend-paying stocks or Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) can provide a powerful source of passive income. When you buy shares in solid, profitable companies (e.g., PLDT, BPI, Ayala Corp) or REITs (e.g., AREIT, RCR, CREIT), you earn dividends as a share of their profits.

  • Example: If you have P2 million invested in stocks that pay a 5% yearly dividend, you'll receive P100,000 per year, or P8,333 per month—equivalent to a common pension amount, but with far greater growth potential.

  • Long-Term Benefits: Unlike a pension, these dividends can continue as long as the company is profitable. The value of your stocks can also grow over time (capital gains), further increasing your wealth.

The downside is that the market is volatile and requires knowledge and patience. There is always a risk of losing your investment if a company performs poorly. However, a key advantage is that you can pass these investments on to your family, creating a legacy of passive income.




The Power of Diversification: Don't Choose, Combine

Ultimately, there is no single "best" option. Each vehicle has its unique strengths:

  • Pension: Stable and lifelong, but may not keep up with inflation.

  • Pag-IBIG MP2: Safe, simple, and offers reliable growth, but with a fixed lock-in period.

  • Stocks/REITs: Potential for high, long-term passive income that can be inherited, but with the inherent risk of market volatility.

The most effective strategy is to combine them. Don't choose one over the other. Build your SSS contributions, consistently save in Pag-IBIG MP2, and strategically invest in dividend stocks or REITs. And don't forget to get insurance to create a safety net for your family.

Retirement isn’t about choosing one vehicle; it’s about preparing multiple streams of income to ensure you are comfortable, secure, and financially independent in your golden years.



Pension vs. Investments: The Ultimate Guide to Securing Your Retirement in the Philippines


For investors in the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), a well-diversified portfolio is key to navigating market volatility and achieving long-term financial goals. Beyond real estate investment trusts (REITs), the PSE offers a wide range of companies across various sectors that can provide a balance of steady dividends and strong potential for capital appreciation.



This guide highlights ten of the top stocks to watch in 2025, offering a snapshot of their recent performance, dividend history, and what makes each a compelling investment.

Note: The stock prices and dividend information provided are based on data available from July to August 2025. This information is subject to change based on market movements and company announcements. Dividends, in particular, can vary and are not guaranteed. It is highly recommended to perform your own research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

RELATED: Do Not Put Your Money on PAGIBIG MP2 Savings - Here are the Alternatives


1. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV)

As a diversified conglomerate, AEV offers a balanced exposure to the Philippine economy, with major investments in power, banking, and food. This diversification provides a hedge against downturns in any single sector.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: AEV's stock price ranged from a high of ₱35.05 to a low of ₱28.90 in July 2025, closing the month at ₱31.50.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: AEV pays dividends twice a year. Their March 2025 dividend was ₱1.54 per share.


2. Ayala Corporation (AC)

Ayala Corporation is a respected holding company and a bellwether of the Philippine economy. Its portfolio includes market leaders in high-growth sectors, making it a strong long-term investment.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: AC closed at ₱586.50 on July 11, 2025.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: AC typically pays dividends twice a year. In July 2025, a regular cash dividend of ₱4.605 per common share was declared for the first semester.




3. BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO)

As the largest bank in the country, BDO is a powerhouse in the financial sector. Its extensive branch network and robust financial performance make it a stable stock for investors seeking consistent dividends.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: BDO's stock price for July 2025 is not publicly available.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: BDO pays dividends quarterly. Their second quarter 2025 cash dividend was ₱1.10 per share, payable on June 30, 2025.


4. Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)

BPI is one of the most trusted and oldest banks in the country. Its strong balance sheet and focus on digital innovation make it a competitive player in the evolving banking landscape.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: BPI's stock price for July 2025 is not publicly available.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: BPI generally pays dividends twice a year. Their cash dividend of ₱2.08 per common share was payable on June 30, 2025.


5. International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICT)

ICT is a global port operator, offering a unique opportunity to invest in international trade and logistics. Its dividends are paid in US dollars, which can serve as a hedge against the volatility of the Philippine Peso.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: The share price of ICT ranged from a high of ₱499.00 to a low of ₱420.00 in July 2025. On July 17, 2025, it was trading at ₱445.00.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: ICT typically pays dividends annually, often with a regular and a special cash dividend. The March 2025 payout was ₱14.16 per share.



6. PLDT, Inc. (TEL)

PLDT is the dominant player in the telecommunications sector. Its continuous investments in expanding its fiber network and 5G infrastructure position it for long-term growth as the country's demand for data and connectivity increases.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: TEL's stock price fluctuated between ₱1,225.00 and ₱1,317.00 in July 2025. On July 10, 2025, it closed at ₱1,225.00.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: PLDT pays dividends quarterly. The dividends are based on a payout policy of 60-75% of its core earnings.


7. Manila Electric Company (MER)

Meralco is a defensive stock, meaning it's less affected by economic downturns. As the country's largest power distributor, its essential services ensure a stable and predictable revenue stream.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: MER's price ranged from ₱528.00 to ₱550.50 in July 2025, with a closing price of ₱535.50 on July 31, 2025.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: Meralco consistently pays dividends quarterly, providing a stable income stream for investors. A recent dividend yield was approximately 4.45%.


8. San Miguel Corporation (SMC)

SMC is a diversified powerhouse with a wide range of products and services, from food and beverages to infrastructure and fuel. Its broad market reach and essential products make it a resilient company.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: SMC's stock price closed at ₱71.90 on July 31, 2025.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: SMC generally pays dividends twice a year for its common shares.



9. Universal Robina Corporation (URC)

URC is a leader in the food and beverage industry, with a portfolio of well-known and loved brands. Its strong consumer base and market dominance provide a solid foundation for consistent earnings.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: URC closed at ₱85.20 on August 8, 2025.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: URC typically pays dividends annually, and its March 2025 payout was ₱2.00 per share.


10. SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPH)

SM Prime is the Philippines' largest and most dominant integrated property developer. Its large-scale portfolio of malls, residential projects, and hotels gives investors a direct stake in the country's consumer and real estate growth.

  • July 2025 Stock Price: SMPH's estimated share price was ₱33.54 as of July 17, 2025.

  • Average Dividends and Frequency: SMPH has a history of paying dividends annually, with its payouts linked to the company's strong earnings and growth.


Tips for Investors 📈

Before you invest, remember that past performance is not a guarantee of future results. It's essential to conduct your own research, consider your personal risk tolerance, and diversify your portfolio. Stocks like BDO and Meralco are good for those who prioritize regular income through dividends, while companies like PLDT and SM Prime offer a mix of growth and dividends. Always read a company's financial reports and stay updated on market news to make informed decisions.


A Guide to Top Philippine Stocks in 2025


For many, the idea of earning a monthly income from the stock market seems like a distant dream. However, as one investor from the "Corpo Slave Investor" community has highlighted, it's a very achievable goal.



By carefully selecting a portfolio of dividend-paying stocks on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), investors can create a passive income stream that provides regular payouts throughout the year. The key lies in understanding which companies distribute dividends and their payment frequency, a process that requires diligent research.

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This guide, inspired by the insights of a seasoned investor, breaks down how to construct a dividend portfolio that can provide a consistent monthly income. It is crucial for every investor to remember to conduct their own due diligence, as market conditions and company policies can change.




The Strategy: A Breakdown by Payout Frequency

The strategy involves diversifying your portfolio across companies that pay dividends at different times of the year. By combining stocks that pay quarterly, tri-annually, semi-annually, and annually, you can ensure that cash flows into your account on a regular basis.


Quarterly Dividend Payers

These are the cornerstones of a monthly dividend income strategy, as they provide the most frequent payouts.

  • Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): By law, REITs are required to distribute at least 90% of their distributable income to shareholders on a quarterly basis. This makes them a reliable source of regular cash flow.

  • Holding Firms: Some major holding firms, such as LT Group, Inc. (LTG), are known to distribute quarterly dividends, sometimes with special bonus dividends on top of their regular payouts.

  • Telecommunications: Globe Telecom (GLO) is an example of a telecommunications company that consistently provides dividends to shareholders every quarter.

  • Banks: Certain banking institutions like BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) have a history of distributing dividends on a quarterly basis, making them a solid inclusion for a steady income.



Tri-Annual Dividend Payers

These stocks can fill in the gaps between quarterly payouts, adding to the monthly income stream.

  • Banking: Metrobank (MBT) has historically distributed dividends every four months. As the source noted, their latest payout was in late March 2025, offering a dividend yield of approximately 6.88%.


Semi-Annual Dividend Payers

These companies provide larger, less frequent payouts that can be strategically timed to complement the other dividends in your portfolio.

  • Utilities: Meralco (MER) is a prime example. Its dividends have shown a consistent increase over the past five years, reflecting a strong and stable business.

  • Telecommunications: Unlike Globe, PLDT (TEL) has a history of paying dividends on a semi-annual basis.

  • Port Operations: International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), a global port terminal operator, is known for its semi-annual dividend distribution.

  • Food & Beverage: The food giant Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), which operates in numerous countries, also falls into this category with its semi-annual dividend payouts.


Annual Dividend Payers

While they only pay once a year, these stocks can provide a substantial lump sum to round out the portfolio.

  • Holding Firms: Companies like Alliance Global Group, Inc. (AGI) and Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. (AEV), with diverse investments across various sectors, typically distribute dividends on an annual basis.




Important Considerations and Caveats

This list primarily includes common shares, but preferred shares are another option to explore for dividend income. It's crucial to understand that a company's dividend payout is not guaranteed. It is subject to the approval of the company's Board of Directors (BOD). As the original post highlighted, some companies may halt dividend payouts due to factors such as low earnings or profits. The timing of dividend releases may also change, with the notable exception of REITs, which are legally mandated to distribute quarterly.


Conclusion: The Path to Passive Income

The conclusion is clear: earning a monthly income from the PSE is entirely possible. By strategically building a portfolio of dividend-paying stocks with varying payout schedules, you can create a reliable source of passive income. The key takeaway is to view the stock market not just for capital appreciation but also as a way to supplement or even replace your salary through dividend income.

While maintaining a day job, it is wise to strive for additional income streams like the stock market, always ensuring you do your own thorough research and due diligence before making any investment decisions.


More Financial Guides


Building a Monthly Income Stream from the Philippine Stock Exchange - Is It Possible?


Filipino cryptocurrency traders are facing a significant disruption as major internet service providers (ISPs) in the Philippines have begun blocking access to several prominent international crypto exchange platforms. This decisive action follows a series of warnings from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding the unregistered operation of these platforms within the country.



Reports have surfaced throughout the day confirming that users of ISPs like PLDT and Smart are now unable to access the websites and applications of a growing list of international cryptocurrency exchanges.

This move comes after the SEC issued an Investor Alert against ten specific platforms, urging the public to refrain from investing or trading with them due to their lack of necessary licenses under the Philippines' new Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) Rules, which took effect on July 5, 2025.


The list of crypto trading websites reportedly no longer accessible includes:

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  • Binance
  • OKX
  • Bybit
  • MEXC
  • KuCoin
  • Bitget
  • Phemex
  • CoinEx
  • BitMart
  • Poloniex
  • Kraken

The SEC had previously warned that it may request the blocking of access to these websites and applications as part of its efforts to protect Filipino investors. The regulator emphasized the risks associated with using unregistered platforms, including the potential for fraud, loss of funds, and lack of legal recourse for investors.




This crackdown represents a significant escalation in the Philippine government's regulatory efforts within the cryptocurrency space. The SEC has been actively working to ensure that all entities facilitating crypto transactions within the country are properly registered and compliant with local laws. The earlier successful geo-blocking of Binance served as a clear indication of the regulator's intent to enforce these rules.

While access to these major international platforms is now restricted, the SEC has highlighted several registered local exchanges that Filipinos can utilize for their cryptocurrency trading activities. These compliant platforms include:



  • PDAX: Accessible via both web and mobile applications.

  • CoinsPH: Recognized as the largest Philippine-based cryptocurrency exchange.

  • GCrypto: Integrated within the GCash application and powered by PDAX on its back-end.

  • MayaCrypto: Available on the Maya platform, although currently without send and receive functionalities.

The blocking of these international exchanges serves as a stark reminder for cryptocurrency investors in the Philippines to exercise caution and prioritize trading on platforms that have secured the necessary licenses from the local regulatory authorities.


The SEC continues to urge the public to be vigilant and to only engage with entities that operate within the legal framework to ensure investor protection. The "crackdown has begun," signaling a new era of stricter regulation within the Philippine cryptocurrency market.


More Financial Guides

Philippine ISPs Block Major International Exchanges


Did you know you can now cash in to your Maya wallet using your credit card—with zero convenience fees? That’s right—Maya is running a promo that allows users to cash in using Visa credit cards without being charged the usual 2%–3.5% service fee. I tried it myself using my BDO Visa credit card, and here’s everything you need to know before trying it yourself.



What Is the Maya Visa Credit Card Cash-In Promo?

Maya is currently offering a No Convenience Fee promo when you cash in using any Visa credit card, directly through the app. This is a major win for users who want to fund their Maya wallet without bank transfers, InstaPay, or trips to physical stores. You can now top up directly from your credit line at no additional cost—if you do it right.


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Promo Period

As of writing (August 2025), the promo is ongoing, but like all promos, it may be time-limited. Check the Maya app announcements or their social media pages to see if it’s still active.





My Personal Experience with BDO Visa Credit Card

I tested the process myself using my BDO Visa credit card, and here’s how it went:

  • ✅ The transaction pushed through instantly

  • ✅ I was not charged any convenience fee

  • ✅ The amount was credited to my Maya wallet in real time

  • ✅ It worked as long as the amount was under ₱5,000

However, there were a few key limitations:

  • ⚠️ Maximum of two transactions under ₱5,000 were allowed per day

  • ⚠️ My attempts to cash in ₱5,000 or higher were declined

  • ⚠️ BDO only allowed a total of ₱9,998 (₱4,999 × 2) in one day

So if you’re using a BDO Visa credit card, you can cash in up to ₱9,998 daily using this method—as long as you split the transactions.



Important: Check for Quasi-Cash Fees

While Maya waives their own convenience fee during the promo, some banks treat wallet top-ups as “quasi-cash transactions”, which may trigger cash advance fees or interest charges.



How to Avoid This


Check your bank's policy before using their credit card

Call your bank and ask: “Do you charge quasi-cash or cash advance fees for wallet top-ups?”

Use banks that treat Maya top-ups like regular purchases (BDO Visa seems to be one of them)

Banks known for quasi-cash fees include some foreign banks, fintech cards, and even certain local Mastercard issuers. Visa cards seem to work better overall for this promo.

Apply for a BDO Credit Card now!


How to Cash In to Maya Wallet Using Your Credit Card

Here’s the full step-by-step process:

  1. Open the Maya app

  2. Tap “Cash In” from the home screen

  3. Select “Credit/Debit Card”

  4. Tap “Link a New Card” and enter your Visa credit card details

  5. Set your desired amount (keep it under ₱5,000 per transaction)

  6. Confirm the payment and complete any OTP verification from your bank

  7. Wait for the top-up to reflect—should be instant

You’ll receive confirmation from both Maya and your credit card provider.




Reminders Before You Try It


💡 Only Visa credit cards are eligible for the no-fee promo (not Mastercards)

🔐 Make sure your card supports online transactions and 3D Secure

⚠️ Some banks might decline transactions flagged as wallet top-ups

📈 If you exceed daily limits, you may need to wait 24 hours before trying again



Final Thoughts

This Maya Visa credit card cash-in promo is a smart way to add funds to your wallet for free, especially if you're investing through DragonFi Lite, paying bills, or sending money. Just be mindful of your card’s policies and transaction limits to avoid any surprise fees.

If you’re using a BDO Visa card like me, it’s a safe bet—but always start with small amounts and monitor your credit card statement after your first few transactions.


More Financial Guides


How to Cash In to Maya Wallet Using a Credit Card (with No Fees!)


If you're a Maya user hunting for higher savings interest rates, good news: up to 15% p.a. Maya Savings boost is still active as of August 1, 2025 — and yes, the Lazada and Grab "hacks" still work.



This savings trick is perfect for those who want to make the most of Maya's tiered incentive system without overspending or relying on unclear promos.

Here's a breakdown of how it works, how you can unlock up to 15%, and a step-by-step guide on using Lazada to do it — hassle-free and cost-effective.


Open Maya App

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Breakdown: Up to 15% p.a. for Select* Maya Users

Maya’s tiered interest rates are based on your spending behavior. Here’s the current setup:


Requirement Boosted Interest (on Savings Balance)


  • ✅ Base Rate 3.5% p.a. on all balances

  • ✅ Spend P35,000 via QRPh / Maya Card +6.5% p.a.

  • ✅ Spend P40,000 via Landers Maya Credit Card +3% p.a.

  • ✅ Spend P2,000 via Maya Easy Credit +2% p.a.

Total Possible Up to 15% p.a.

Note: Promos and boosted rates are for SELECT users — Maya sometimes targets based on account activity.




How to Easily Unlock the First 10% Using Lazada (Updated August 2025)

One of the simplest and most cost-efficient ways to unlock the 6.5% QRPh/Card Spend boost is through Lazada cash-ins using your Maya Wallet and card. Here's how:


Step-by-Step Lazada Hack



1. Link Your Maya Wallet/Card to Lazada


Go to Lazada > Wallet > Cash In > Cards

Add your Maya Virtual or Physical Card


2. Fund Your Maya Wallet


Make sure your Maya Wallet has at least ₱35,000. This is the spending requirement for the 6.5% interest boost.


3. Start a Cash-In on Lazada


Choose Cash In via Linked Card (your Maya card).

Enter ₱35,000 as the amount.


4. Wait for the Confirmation


Maya will send you an SMS confirmation once the cash-in is successful.


5. Get the 10% Interest


Within a few days, you should see your interest rate jump to 10% (3.5% base + 6.5% QRPh/card boost).


6. Transfer Back to Maya


Use Lazada's 1-time free bank transfer to move the ₱35,000 back to your Maya Wallet or other e-wallets.

This closes the loop — no actual net spending, but you still unlock the interest.



Why Lazada?

Cash-in is free, and they offer a 1-time bank transfer out — no fees, no hassle.



GrabPay Variant Still Works Too

Similar steps apply to GrabPay, where you can load funds via your Maya card, then cash out or use them — also counting toward the required spend. However, Lazada remains the preferred option due to ease of transfers and fee-free setup.




Final Notes

This technique works as of August 1, 2025, but Maya may update terms anytime.

These boosts are technically spend-based, so while you're moving money around, the system counts it as eligible "spend".

Always verify via the Maya app or SMS that your boosts are active.


More Financial Guides

Yes, the 15% Maya Savings Hack Still Works as of August 1, 2025 — Here's How (Lazada & Grab Edition)

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