By the middle of the year, many Filipino families and small business owners begin feeling the weight of rising expenses. School fees, household bills, and everyday costs often make it more challenging to stay on track financially, making July an ideal time to reassess spending habits and strengthen savings.
For content creators and entrepreneurs Cong TV and Viy Cortez, financial success didn’t happen overnight. Before building their businesses and growing their online empire, the couple experienced the same budgeting struggles faced by many Filipinos today. Their journey offers practical lessons on managing money wisely, balancing family needs, and planning for the future.
Separate wants from needs
One of the couple’s biggest financial habits is learning to distinguish between impulse purchases and essential expenses.
Cong TV shared that while he used to be tempted to buy things as soon as they became affordable, Viy often reminded him to think carefully before making a purchase.
Now that they have children, the couple prioritizes spending on family needs and savings over unnecessary shopping.
A practical mid-year strategy is to review spending from the past six months, identify unnecessary expenses such as unused subscriptions or impulse purchases, and redirect those funds toward savings. Setting aside emergency funds in a dedicated savings account can also help reduce the temptation to spend.
Keep business and personal finances separate
As entrepreneurs, Cong and Viy manage multiple businesses while raising a family. Viy oversees several ventures, including her cosmetics brand and other entrepreneurial projects, while Cong focuses on content creation.
According to Viy, one of the keys to staying financially organized is keeping household money separate from business funds.
For Filipinos with side hustles or small businesses, maintaining separate accounts for personal and business finances makes it easier to monitor income, expenses, and profitability while avoiding unnecessary financial confusion.
Build an emergency fund
Parenthood transformed the couple’s approach to money, shifting their priorities from short-term spending to long-term financial security.
Viy emphasized the importance of having an emergency fund, saying the peace of mind that comes from knowing money is available for unexpected situations is invaluable, especially when raising children.
Financial experts generally recommend building an emergency fund equivalent to three to six months’ worth of living expenses. Starting with small but consistent savings throughout the second half of the year can help families become better prepared for unforeseen emergencies.
Surround yourself with financially responsible people
Cong believes financial growth is easier when shared with people who encourage responsible money habits.
The philosophy behind “Team Payaman,” he explained, is not simply about becoming wealthy individually but helping friends and loved ones improve their financial situation together.
Open conversations about budgeting, savings, and financial goals with family, partners, or trusted friends can help reinforce healthy financial habits. Choosing low-cost activities over expensive outings is another simple way to reduce unnecessary spending while still enjoying time together.
Making smarter financial decisions
Cong TV and Viy Cortez’s journey demonstrates that financial stability is built through consistent, practical decisions rather than overnight success. By managing spending carefully, separating finances, building savings, and surrounding themselves with supportive people, the couple has created a strong financial foundation for their family and businesses.
As Filipinos navigate the second half of the year, adopting these simple money habits can help reduce financial stress and support long-term financial goals.