Five Money Questions Filipinos Can Use for More Intentional Spending
Last Updated on September 9, 2026 by Franchelle Aguhob
As the Ber months draw near, many Filipinos may be taking a closer look at where they are, what they value, and where they want to go next.
For some, that means reviewing their spending and savings. For others, it may mean thinking about work, family, health, or long-term plans.
A newly launched PURPLE Report on Consumer Trade-Offs and Intentional Spending from EastWest Ageas suggests that more Filipinos are becoming deliberate about their financial choices.
That mindset can start with five simple questions that help people check their direction, weigh their choices, and define what a meaningful life looks like to them.
Checking If the Path Still Fits
The first question is, “Am I on track?”
People ask this in many parts of life. They may wonder if their career is moving forward, if they are getting closer to their health goals, or if their finances are in good shape.
According to the report, 52% of Filipinos closely monitor their budgets to see if they are saving enough.
Being on track does not mean having every detail settled. It means knowing what matters and taking steps toward those priorities.
A pause can help people see where they stand, what needs to change, and what move makes sense next.
Looking Beyond the Price Tag
The second question is, “Am I spending on the right things?”
Progress has often been tied to big milestones, such as getting promoted or buying a home. Today, everyday choices can reflect how people define progress.
An online order, weekend trip, or subscription may seem small on its own, but each purchase represents a choice. Instead of only asking, “Can I afford this?” more Filipinos are considering a more personal question: “Is this worth it to me?”
The report highlights a few notable findings about how Filipinos are making financial decisions:
- 52% closely watch their budgets to check if they are saving enough
- 42% are cutting back on non-essential spending
- Intentional decisions can apply to money, time, commitments, and personal goals
- Progress does not have to come only from major life milestones
Making Room for What Matters
The third question is, “What can I let go of?”
The report shows that 42% of Filipinos are reducing non-essential spending, pointing to a more selective approach to purchases. The same thinking can also affect how people use their time and decide which commitments deserve their attention.
Letting go does not have to mean living with less simply for the sake of it. Instead, it can help create room for priorities that carry greater meaning.
Knowing Who Is Behind the Goal
The fourth question is, “Who am I doing this for?”
Money connects to something bigger. People save for security, work toward better opportunities, prepare for emergencies, or focus on their health because they want more time with loved ones.
This idea sits at the center of EastWest Ageas’ “Life Looks ____ in PURPLE” campaign. PURPLE represents Purpose and People, showing the idea that major choices are influenced by personal plans and the people who matter most.
A parent may be building an education fund. A young professional may be saving to leave the family home. A breadwinner may be preparing for unexpected expenses. Each person can have a different reason behind the same financial decision.
Defining What a Good Life Means
The final question is, “How do I want life to look?”
The blank in “Life Looks ____ in PURPLE” leaves space for people to define success in their own way. One person may picture career growth, while another may value supporting family or reaching a personal goal.
Life can still change because of new opportunities, setbacks, and unexpected circumstances. Having a clear sense of purpose can help people make choices when plans shift.
There is no single picture of the life Filipinos should want. What matters is understanding personal priorities and making thoughtful choices along the way.
The five questions is a simple way to pause, reassess, and move forward with greater intention.
If you could describe the life you want in just one word, what would it be? Let us know in the comments.
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