How will Filipinos handle their money in 2026? Here's what business and finance experts predict

The likely financial landscape of 2026 

2026 may be rough due to numerous factors, including lack of trust in the government

According to Francis Kong, bestselling author and business strategist, several factors will be responsible for a financially unpredictable 2026. Among these are the chaotic geopolitical climate, people's lack of trust in their government, general uncertainty, disruptions, the changing behavior of consumers, economic downtrend, and widespread retrenchment due to artificial intelligence and automation. 

"A confluence of all these factors leads to a perfect storm. But [I'm] still hopeful things would get better and I would be wrong," he told L!fe.

Dennis Montecillo, an independent board member of a number of publicly listed and private corporates, sees the country's growth in 2026 to be less robust as in previous years. He attributed this to, among others, political chaos. 

"We are probably entering a protracted period of decelerating growth resulting from short-term macro events like political noise, exaggerating what was an already cooling of the economy after a period of growth," said Montecillo, who has over 30 years of experience in various financial institutions in New York, Hong Kong, and Manila.

Gerard B. Sanvictores, national president of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants, sees private businesses treading cautiously in 2026. 

"In general, the mood and enthusiasm of businesses will be moderate and on the conservative side," he said. "It seems we will not see any major IPO (initial public offering) coming up in 2026. Even the big boys are cautious about an IPO, so that's an indication of how they see the business and economic picture in the coming year."

'Meaningful' expenses will be prioritized 

In the next year, Filipinos may focus their spending power on products and services that contribute to their quality of life, according to Donnie Tantoco, president of Rustan Commercial Corporation and CEO of Royal Duty Free Shops, Inc. 

"Consumers will prioritize experiences, convenience, and products that come bundled with services or solutions, rather than standalone items," he said.

"We’ll see spending shift toward food, travel, wellness, and lifestyle brands that offer value, personalization, and emotional connection. In short, people will spend less on excess and more on things that genuinely improve their quality of life," added Tantoco. 

Necessities will take precedence over luxury buys

Robinsons Retail Holdings CEO Stanley Co is cautiously optimistic about consumer spending in 2026, as Filipinos prioritize their needs over their wants. 

"With forecasted inflation averaging 3.1-3.2% and GDP growth projected at 5.3-5.7%, the macroeconomic fundamentals support continued household consumption, albeit at a moderated pace," Co told L!fe. This means consumers will still patronize supermarkets and drugstores. 

"Recent trends also indicate Filipino consumers are becoming more disciplined in terms of spending. This creates opportunities for value-oriented offerings and strategic promotions to capture wallet share," added Co. 

Likewise, Kong predicted that Pinoys "will be smarter and would spend their money on higher value items, and would do their best to save up."

"They may spend their money cautiously. They have to pay their holiday bills first, so they might skimp on many things until the statements are paid," he said.

Later in the year, Filipinos may slowly resume purchasing beyond their needs

With the inflation rate staying with the government's target range in the last quarter of 2025, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the country may eventually "expect measured growth" in discretionary shopping. 

"The subdued inflation should help restore purchasing power, supporting a gradual recovery in discretionary spending through the year," said Co. 

GCash president and CEO Martha Sazon also said that Filipino consumers will still give way to occasional bursts of fun. 

"While Filipinos will continue to be very practical with their money and look for every way to save and get real value, especially given the times we're in, Filipinos being Filipinos, we'll always make room for joy, whether that's a good meal shared with family, checking out that long-saved online cart, or, for some, a well-earned trip to recharge," she told L!fe. 

Digital knowledge can help secure a financially independent future

For Sazon, understanding how to navigate and optimize digital tools is essential to financial security. 

"Digital and fintech will play a bigger role in helping people move, save, and stretch their money with more confidence," she said. 

"In the end, it's about making every peso go far and still making it feel worth it," Sazon added. 

Extra money may be used to invest in financial security 

With 2025 putting Filipinos, collectively, through issue after issue—from political uncertainty to a volatile economy—people "became more intentional with how they manage their money," said Rose Ann Gatpolintan-Perez, unit manager of Pru Life UK and a 5-time MDRT member.

"Many shifted away from impulse spending and 'quick-win' investments. Instead, they began prioritizing protection, stability, and long-term planning," she told L!fe.

For Gatpolintan-Perez, this mindset would carry over into 2026.

"More Filipinos now understand that financial security isn't just about growing money; it's about safeguarding income, health, and family goals. Planning ahead, building emergency funds, and diversifying investments are slowly becoming part of our financial culture," she said.

Discipline will remain crucial in successfully surviving in an uncertain economy

There is merit in being strict with yourself when it comes to spending your hard-earned money. This discipline may spell the difference between living in poverty and leading a comfortable life.

"In the coming months, including the next quarter, there may still be market volatility," said Gatpolintan-Perez. "But this only reinforces the importance of being prepared. Those who are properly insured and financially disciplined are in a much better position to navigate uncertainty."

Financial tips to remember

Keep borrowing to a minimum

The experts all agree it's best for Filipinos not to over-borrow and spend on non-essentials. Setting a budget and sticking to it is one of the most effective ways to become financially independent.

"Watch your debt levels and spend within your means," said Montecillo.

Save for emergencies and investments

If there is enough extra cash, save a portion of your income for emergency needs. And if there is any left, use it for investments, but don't fall prey to tempting get-rich-quick scams. Do comprehensive research on any investment opportunities you are considering before getting into it.

Build finances in the right order

Be methodical in how you handle your money.

"Protection first, then growth," suggested Gatpolintan-Perez. "Start with an emergency fund, secure the right life and health insurance—whether through VULs (variable universal life) or traditional plans with guarantees—and only then move into investments."

"In 2026... the most financially successful Filipinos won't be the riskiest; they'll be the most prepared," she added.