Reflecting on the year 2025. This year marked a major turning point in my life, beginning with the difficult decision to resign in order to prioritize my family and personal responsibilities. January became a period of transition as I prepared to leave Singapore and return to the Philippines, closing an important chapter of my journey. Saying goodbye to NCS and Singapore felt emotional, especially after the meaningful experiences and memories built there. Moving out, shipping balikbayan boxes, and temporarily staying in an apartment during renovations reminded me how challenging change can be. Although our home renovations were completed mid-year, we chose stability for Joyce by allowing her to finish her studies at St. Cyr Academy. Managing renovation costs and overseeing property units taught me practical lessons in planning, patience, and responsibility. Handling tenant issues was stressful at times, but it helped me develop stronger management skills through real-life experience. Financially, I explored crypto investments, exited with gains, and later shifted back into PSE investments during favorable opportunities, reinforcing the importance of timing and discipline. Joyce’s milestones, including starting orthodontic treatment and participating in chess competitions, became meaningful highlights that made me proud as a parent. Adjusting to life back in the Philippines required patience, especially while balancing new routines and responsibilities. Purchasing a Toyota Raize and improving my driving skills symbolized growing independence and adaptation to local life. Entertainment through Korean dramas and streaming platforms provided moments of relaxation and reflection throughout a busy year. Some goals, like software development progress and sustained weight loss, faced setbacks, reminding me that growth is rarely linear. Skipping summer vacation due to renovations showed how priorities sometimes require sacrifice. Overall, this year felt like a period of transition, learning, and realignment — a journey filled with challenges, personal growth, and preparation for the next phase ahead.
- Finally decided to resign due to family priorities and personal circumstances
- January was dedicated to preparing for my return to the Philippines
- Completed move-out sales and finalized balikbayan boxes
- Papa visited Singapore, and I toured him around despite the Chinese New Year crowds
- Farewell to Singapore and NCS — a meaningful and memorable chapter
- Temporarily moved to a nearby apartment during ongoing home renovations
- Home renovations were completed mid-year, but we decided to let Joyce finish her studies at St. Cyr Academy
- Santolan renovation planning, execution, and cost management
- Skipped summer vacation due to renovations and adjusting to apartment living
- Managed multiple property units
- Faced tenant challenges and learned renter management the hard way
- Explored crypto investments and exited after achieving reasonable gains
- Re-entered investments through PSE during favorable market lows
- Joyce started orthodontic treatment with an expander followed by braces
- Participated in school activities and yearly celebrations
- Adjusted to life back in the Philippines
- Supported Joyce in her chess competition
- Purchased a Toyota Raize this year
- Focused on improving my driving skills
- Watched many Korean drama series
- Enjoyed numerous Netflix and Disney+ series and movies
- Experienced delays in software development progress
- Prepared for moving to Pasig in the first quarter of next year
- Made good progress in weight loss but regained some weight toward year-end
- Fully exited crypto after cashing out gains
- No major health issues this year, except for a few weeks of flu