a message ...

Dear Students 

(who did not make it in the Licensure Exams)...

We understand that the outcome may not have been what you had hoped for,
and we share in your disappointment.
But we know that you are capable of achieving great things,
and we stand by you in this sad time. Akap. 🤗

Just take this time to reflect, to learn from this experience,
and to prepare for the journey ahead.
Failure as they say is not the end but a stepping stone towards success. 

Please know that you are not alone in this.
You have your friends and family,
you have a community,
and we stand together in times of trials.
Iyak lang ng todo at ilabas lahat ng frustration
then move on. Padayon! 💛

Just stay strong, keep believing in yourself,
prepare harder and smarter and never ever lose sight of your dreams.
Ipaglaban ang pangarap na yan, maaabot din. 

Your journey is far from over.
You will bounce back from this stronger
and more determined than ever,
claim na yan! ⭐

Laban lang always!

Practical Money Management: A Key Pillar to a Happy Married Life

The realities of daily life may not align with what we see in movies, but certain scenes do mirror the challenges faced by real-life couples, especially misunderstandings. While there's no secret formula for a perfect marriage, one core dimension that significantly contributes to a happy union is practical money management. In today's world, where social security and government support may not always suffice, financial wisdom and independence become paramount for both partners. I always say, we can't underestimate the importance of sound financial planning in fostering a strong and harmonious relationship and getting valuable advice to build a secure and blissful life together. 20+ years of marriage and I am still learning.

Communication is Key.
I'm not claiming that I have perfected this, because my husband Bito can be a bit hard of hearing sometimes. Effective communication however is one of the best foundations of a successful marriage, especially when it comes to money matters. Openly discuss your financial goals, concerns, and responsibilities. Create a joint budget that aligns with your shared aspirations, and regularly review it together. Avoid hiding financial issues from your partner, as transparency builds trust and allows both of you to face challenges as a team.

Establish Financial Goals.
You'll really laugh at this one because my biggest goal is just to pay the electric and water bills in advance (like prepaid), and that's okay with him. For him, it's at least saving 20,000 pesos for emergencies. Setting common financial goals is crucial to steer your marriage toward a prosperous future. Discuss short-term (travels) and long-term objectives (retirement) together. Working towards these goals together fosters a sense of unity and purpose in your relationship.

Live Within Your Means.
This is where I have a master's degree! Avoid succumbing to excessive spending or living beyond your means. Learn to differentiate between needs and wants, and prioritize essentials while curbing unnecessary expenses. Embrace a frugal lifestyle when necessary, as financial stability and living debt-free contribute to marital harmony. So here goes the answer to the question: why not buy a car?

Emergency Fund and Insurance.
This one is scary but VERY IMPORTANT. Life is unpredictable, and unexpected events can take a toll on a marriage. Build an emergency fund to cover unforeseen expenses, such as medical emergencies or job loss. We've been through that, and it's tough! Consider investing in health, life, and disability insurance to protect your family's financial security in challenging times. Even if it's just something cheap, like the Red Cross for less than 1,000 pesos or the annual Sagip Kapamilya plan for 3,000 pesos if you're tight on budget. The important thing is to have something, then build from there.

Financial Independence.
We learned this the hard way. While marriage fosters unity, it's essential for both partners to maintain a degree of financial independence. Encourage each other to pursue individual career goals and personal development. A sense of independence can boost self-confidence and create a more balanced dynamic within the relationship.

Seek Advice.
Goodness, don't be shy to ask for help! If you find managing finances overwhelming or encounter significant financial decisions, seek guidance from a financial advisor. A professional, or an experienced friend can help you navigate complex money matters and provide personalized strategies to solve your financial problems or to achieve your financial goals together. The important thing is, you accept that there's a problem and there's a need for you to change, right?

ESDEGEES pain

In the name of fairness

some leaders convene,

A woman's voice echoes, echoes...

From the 70s to now,

the world has spun its wheel,

Yet the same old concerns,

they haunt, they steal.

Speeches we've heard, moves we've seen,

can you dance the dance?

A world in peril, given a second,

or a second chance.

Deep within, we know, we know the sting,

The solutions to problems are but

recurring, recurring things.

Our common home, it crumbles,

crumbles from within,

We portray ignorance, yet we know,

we know the sin.

You say it's not about money?

Oh, but it is,The poor can't buy in bulk,

a crisis, a crisis. Just cry sis!

In trying to adapt, we wound,

we wound our home, we call on phone.

The irony of life, in this global, global dome.

If only we had enough,

if they could truly see,

The pain, the struggle,

the desperate, desperate plea.

Some days are for dreaming,

some are for all the slap needed...

Unmet goals loom like specters,

as 2030, Oh 2030 is on its way.

Is it a beacon of hope or a cruel jest?

A world on the brink, on the brink,

put to the test.

The confusion of young and old,

it shifts, it sways, it stinks

Who will work, who will check,

who will dream for our days?

Is this an outburst, or a cry,

a cry for help, can't you see?

Better stop and think, or better yet

let it be, let it be....

--

END