At 41 this year, life has taken a profound turn for my family and me over the past two years. Despite the challenges, we still feel blessed. As long as we’re alive, there's always hope and new opportunities. Maintaining a positive outlook can lead to significant life changes.
November is both a planning and execution month for me. I'm starting to transfer funds from SGD to PHP, conservatively investing in MP2 Pag-IBIG, managing some of our properties, and undertaking house renovations. Additionally, I've canceled non-performing investments like the Prudential ILP and might opt for term insurance instead. On top of that, I've reconnected with my former HP colleagues.
This Month's Quote
Code is like humor. When you have to explain it, it’s bad.
– Cory House
Invested in Pagibig MP2
One of the safest low risk investments to park your cash would be...
Investing in Pag-IBIG MP2 (Modified Pag-IBIG II) is a great way to save and earn higher dividends. Pag-IBIG MP2 Savings Program is a voluntary savings facility with a 5-year maturity period designed for active Pag-IBIG Fund members. It offers higher dividend rates compared to the regular Pag-IBIG savings, and dividends are tax-free. The funds are invested in housing finance, government securities, and corporate bonds, ensuring a stable and secure investment.
I've been to Pag-IBIG twice now—once by myself and another time with my wife. Both times, I dropped by to make another MP2 deposit. It was a pretty straightforward experience and felt good to keep up with my savings plan.
Commuting in Metro Manila
Bus, Jeepney and Getting lost...
Overall, while commuting by bus in Metro Manila has its challenges, it's a practical and budget-friendly way to get around the city. Embracing the journey with patience and a positive attitude can make the experience more manageable. I got lost in Makati and ended up missing the EDSA Carousel bus. I eventually found my way back the main road and In the end, I just booked a Grab from Makati to Pasig.
SM Megamall has always been a haven for tech enthusiasts and pop culture fans. Remember the excitement of visiting Techno Geeks for the latest gadgets and tech deals? Or the thrill of attending SM CyberMonth, where tech geeks gathered to experience the latest innovations and participate in exciting activities?
And who could forget Filbar's? The premier store for comics, collectibles, and all things geeky since 1979. It was the go-to place for comic book lovers, anime fans, and collectors of rare memorabilia. The store was filled with treasures, from vintage comic books to exclusive action figures, making every visit a nostalgic adventure.
SM Megamall truly captured the essence of geek culture, offering a space where fans could come together, share their passions, and create lasting memories.
Street Food
Street food and bakeshops...
I can't get enough of the sizzling isaw from the corner vendor near the jeepney stop. Every afternoon, the aroma of freshly fried kwek-kwek and banana cue fills the air, making it impossible to resist. And when I need a sweet pick-me-up, a cup of taho from the friendly magtataho never disappoints. These street delights are more than just snacks; they're a part of our daily lives and culture.
Local bakeshops! Whether you're grabbing a warm pandesal in the morning or an ensaymada for a sweet treat, these shops always hit the spot. Plus, who can resist the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the air?
Santolan Renovations
Fixtures to our old house...
We will renovate our ancestral house to give it a fresh, modern look. We'll gut the old interiors and bring in sleek, contemporary designs. New floors, updated plumbing, state-of-the-art appliances, and a complete revamp of the layout will transform it into a stylish new home while still keeping a nod to its history. It will be like giving the house a whole new life!
Umisushi
I love sushi specially when it is discounted...
At 10 PM, I went to Umisushi, and the prices were already discounted. It felt like finding hidden treasures among the sushi and bento boxes. I grabbed my favorites, paid less than expected, and left with a smile, ready for a late-night feast.
Amilyar
Online payments surely make things convenient...
In 2025, I paid my amilyar (property tax) online. The process was smooth and efficient, and I even got a discount for early payment. It felt great to get it done without any hassle!
Meeting ex-HP Colleagues
See old people and acquaintances...
A few Fridays ago, I met up with my old officemates for a Japanese dinner and drinks. We chose a cozy izakaya, where the atmosphere was ok. It was a nice, low-key evening filled with good food and familiar faces while having simple chitchat.
Tangong Pagar and Clark Quay
City dinning and back alley...
Tanjong Pagar blends old and new with its towering Guoco Tower and bustling shops. Meanwhile, Clarke Quay's back alleys offer charming hidden bars and vibrant nightlife against the historic shophouses. A perfect mix of modern and nostalgic vibes.
Office Snacks
Just another foodie in the office.
Today, my officemate treated us to sushi and cake at the office. It was a delightful surprise that brightened our day! Nothing beats a good snack.
Forties and another year of life
Navigating through the age of forty...
Wow, time really does fly! It's hard to believe a whole year has already passed. Life in my forties has been quite a rollercoaster with my wife's illness, Joyce's school challenges, Jace's development, and my work motivation—all making things pretty chaotic. But amidst all this, we are blessed in many ways and living well. As I turn forty-one this year, I'm committing to taking care of Kat and also starting a new venture into the unknown. Let's see where this journey takes us!
Cancelled my Prudential Investment Linked Insurance
Cutting loses...
I decided to cancel my Prudential Investment Linked Insurance because the investment was consistently underperforming. Despite my hopes for better returns, the policy wasn't meeting my financial goals and was causing me more stress than security. After carefully evaluating my options and considering the lackluster performance, I concluded that it was better to cut my losses and explore other investment opportunities that align more with my financial objectives.
Moreover, I've realized that it's always best to separate insurance and investments. Combining the two can often lead to compromises on both fronts. To ensure clearer financial planning and stability, I'm now planning to get a term insurance instead. This way, I can have pure insurance coverage without worrying about the investment component. Making this decision wasn't easy, but it feels like the right step towards more promising financial stability and a better-managed portfolio.
Singles Day. Seagate 14TB and Magsafe Powerbank
Bought a seagate 14tb and ugreen magsafe...
The Seagate 14TB One Touch is a reliable and spacious external hard drive, perfect for storing large files like videos, photos, and documents. It features both USB-C and USB-A ports, making it versatile and easy to connect to various devices. The design is sleek and user-friendly, and it comes with Seagate's Rescue Data Recovery Services for added peace of mind. Overall, it's a great choice for anyone needing a lot of storage without compromising on performance or convenience.
The UGREEN MagSafe 10,000mAh Power Bank is a reliable and convenient accessory for iPhone users. Its high capacity ensures multiple charges for your device, and the MagSafe technology provides a secure and easy connection. The power bank also features a kickstand for hands-free viewing and a USB-C port for fast charging. While it's a bit bulky, the convenience and performance make it a great companion for on-the-go charging. If you're looking for a powerful and user-friendly power bank, this is a solid choice.
Webtoon: Academys Genius Swordsman
Second change and life genre, going back in time...
This is the webtoon reference Academys Genius Swordsman and the youtube summary playlist.
**"The Academy's Genius Swordsman"** is an engaging webtoon that follows the journey of Ronan, a skilled swordsman who faces giants and battles for the fate of the world. The story is filled with magic, swordsmanship, and school life, making it a fun read for fans of fantasy and action. The art style is impressive, and the plot, though familiar, keeps you hooked. If you enjoy stories about powerful heroes and epic battles, this is a great pick!
Webtoon: Reincarnated as a Genius Prodigy of a Prestigious Family
Second change and life genre, reincarnated as a different person on the opposing side...
**"Reincarnated as a Genius Prodigy of a Prestigious Family"** is a thrilling webtoon that captivates you from the start. The story follows the protagonist, who gets a second chance at life in an elite family, showcasing incredible intellect and talent. The blend of reincarnation, family dynamics, and the journey of unlocking one’s potential makes it an engaging read. The artwork complements the story beautifully, making each chapter a visual delight. If you’re into tales of brilliance and second chances, this webtoon is definitely worth checking out! Read the it here Reincarnated as a genius prodigy of a prestigious family.