During a financial wellness webinar hosted by global life insurer, Manulife, Filipino celebrities and personalities Anne and Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Luis Manzano, and Kobe and Andre Paras share their insights and experiences in building successful careers, starting new ventures, and managing their finances.
Luis Manzano – “Sometimes, expenses will come all at the same time, especially when you’re planning a wedding. I realized that it’s essential to diversify. Don’t keep your eggs in a single basket, so you have multiple financial sources.”
Anne Curtis-Smith – “When I started my career at 12 years old, it was my Mom and Dad who would handle my finances. They turned it over to me once I reached 18. That was when I started managing my expenses. I was very conscious of saving up for the rainy days. It’s OK to treat yourself, but you need to learn to save. If you’re planning to have children, make sure to save and invest for their future so you can give them the best in life.”
Jasmine Curtis-Smith – “I have learned not to be afraid to ask for guidance and advice from experts about planning, operations, and financials (regarding business ventures). Be more open to people more knowledgeable than you about business, and learn from them.”
Andre Paras – “I love acting, and I’m very passionate about my job. However, when the pandemic struck, I was afraid because I didn’t know when I would work again, which made me rethink my financial goals. Now, I’m planning to explore ways to invest and grow my money so that I’ll be able to secure a better future for myself and my family.”
Kobe Paras – “Right now, I treat paintings as my investment. But after hearing from Manulife’s financial advisors, I want to try the 50/30/20 rule—50 percent of my income goes to my necessities, 30 percent to my wants, and 20 percent to reach my financial goals.”
Financial advisor Cherrie Brinas – “Set aside an emergency fund, so you are prepared when anything strikes. Get sufficient insurance coverage to secure your loved ones’ future. Look beyond merely saving in a bank account by investing so you can grow your money and meet your financial goals and aspirations.”
Financial advisor Kito Zialcita – “By knowing how to invest wisely, you are putting capital at work. You are growing your finances not just by working hard, but also by making your money work hard for you.”