Year: 2020

Cebuana Lhuillier has always been at the pinnacle of serving the Filipino people for over three decades. While many still see the company as a mere channel for pawning services, they actually offer more, in terms of financials. One of their main services is Microsavings, which aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines and doesn’t require a maintaining balance (albeit, a minimum of P500 Average Daily Balance for interest to incur). Even Filipino citizens as young as 7 years old are qualified to open an account, which can be considered as a “kids savings” or “junior savings” account, which makes it very accessible to anyone who are in need of a savings account of their own.

Not to be limited by the usual financial services, Cebuana Lhuillier often provides opportunities for Filipinos to get more out of their accounts, namely, their timely promos. Throughout the years, they’ve had a few memorable ones, which were very beneficial to the Filipino people, especially during times of crisis and dire need. The current pandemic is no different, hence, why they recently launched Cebuana Lhuillier’s Instant Savings Promo 2020.

What is Cebuana Lhuillier’s Instant Savings Promo 2020 and what are the Promo Mechanics?
Cebuana Lhuillier’s Instant Savings Promo 2020 is a raffle promo implemented within Cebuana Lhuillier’s Microsavings service. The promo mechanics are as follows:

1) The promo period is from June 15 to September 14, 2020.
2) New and existing Microsavings account holders are eligible to join the promo.
3) Participants would be able to obtain an e-raffle entry by doing the following transactions and maintaining at least a minimum of P1,000 Average Daily Balance (ADB) within 30/31 days:

4) Eight (8) lucky winners of P50,000 will be drawn each month.

5) Each draw will be held in the P.J. Lhuillier Inc. ICT Office 3/F, The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor. Bel-Air, Makati City 1209, under the supervision of a DTI representative.

6) Undrafted entries in the previous months will not be included in the next draw.
7) Winners will be announced through Cebuana Lhuillier’s Official Facebook Page.
8) Prizes are non-transferrable, and each participant is only eligible for one raffle win.
9) Winners will be notified via SMS/text message and registered e-mail address.
10) The prize money will be deposited in the winner’s Microsavings account. Any amount which exceeds the Microsavings maximum account limit of P50,000 will either be given in cash or will be deposited in a Cebuana Savings account, if ever the winner will prefer to upgrade his or her own account.
11) PJ Lhuillier Inc. will pay the 20% tax fee for the prizes which will exceed P10,000.
12) The cash prize may only be claimed within sixty (60) days upon receiving the SMS/e-mail confirmation.
13) All employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, agencies and services and their relatives up to the second degree of consanguinity or affinity are not eligible to participate in the e-raffle promo.

The promo is a perfect way for Filipinos to catch up to their planned budget. Understandably, the pandemic has caused a major change in everyone’s financial standings. Earning cash is hard enough, but trying to earn more of it during a period of crisis is tougher. Many had lost their jobs, many were sent home after only a few years of working abroad, and a majority of our fellow Filipinos still haven’t found their footing after only a few months of the quarantine period. In such case, Cebuana Lhuillier’s continuous goal to support every Filipino during the time of the pandemic is unwavering and will continue all throughout.

“I am not a Microsavings Account holder. How would I be eligible to join the promo?”
If you are not a Microsavings account holder yet, no worries, as it definitely easy to apply for one. You may visit any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches nationwide and fill-out the Client Customer Information File Sheet and bring the following:

• 1 Government issued ID
• Birth Certificate (applicable to minors only)
• Student ID (applicable only if student is currently enrolled)
• P50 minimum initial deposit
• P100 card fee (for clients w/o 24k card)

“Okay, but how do I deposit the required maintaining balance in my account?”
Cebuana Lhuillier formulated their transaction processes with the customer’s convenience in mind, which is why the process itself is easy as 1-2-3.

• Fill-out the form indicating the money you will deposit and give it to the branch personnel
• Insert your 24k card in the PIN pad
• Get the completed deposit slip

“What if I want to withdraw the cash prize after winning?”
Well, you surely wouldn’t want to withdraw the whole amount after winning. But if ever you’d need to withdraw for your grocery errands, the process is simple:

• Fill-out the form with the desired amount you wish to withdraw
• Insert your 24k card in the PIN pad and type your PIN number.
• Receive the money from the branch personnel

You can even check your remaining balance after each withdrawal. You have two options to choose from:

Option 1: You may visit any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches and use the PIN pad to check your balance.

Option 2: You may log in to your account on the eCebuana app and tap on ‘Micro Savings’

Preferably, you may want to go for option 2 if your main goal is to only check your account balance. It would save you a lot of time, and would also enable you to check your account within the comfort of your home. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to communicate with our authorized personnel through our online channels or you may visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch for more information.

The Filipinos’ endurance and resiliency are immeasurable. Say what you will about the economy, but Filipinos will always endure, no matter what. But these amazing feats of strength are not without its supporting traits, mainly, the Filipino camaraderie and love for family. Often, we find ourselves engulfed within a financial crisis, yet, we still have enough to help out our loved ones. This is evident through the endless streams of cash remittances during our country’s toughest days, and even more noticeable as COVID-19 made its presence felt during the early months of 2020. The thing about sending your loved ones financial help is that, not only are you helping them survive throughout the whole ordeal, but you are also making it known that you care for them, and you would never leave them hanging during times of need.

Now, no other establishment has made it easier and more convenient for every Pinoy to send out their remittances but Cebuana Lhuillier. Being formally established more than three decades ago, their mantra of helping out the Filipino people with their financial needs and transactions remains true up to this day. Introducing different services along the way, garnering solutions to smoothen out every transaction, and opening its doors to opportunities that may better the lives of its long-time customers, Cebuana Lhuillier has always been at the pinnacle of providing unrivaled service and honest financial transactions. With the money remittance aspect of their service, things may just get better along the way, with the introduction of the International Payout Cash Panalo.

What is the International Payout Cash Panalo?
Cebuana Lhuillier’s International Payout Cash Panalo is a raffle promo implemented within Cebuana Lhuillier’s Money Remittance/Pera Padala service. The promo mechanics are as follows:

1) This promo is open to all clients who will claim their international remittance sent thru the participating partners abroad in any of Cebuana Lhuillier’s 2,500 branches. Clients will automatically earn an e-raffle entry based on the following qualifiers below:

2) The promo will run from March 1 up to December 31, 2020. Lucky winners will be drawn to win the following prizes:

• March – 100 winners of PhP 5,000 cash
• April – 100 winners of PhP 10,000 cash
• May – 30 winners of PhP 20,000 cash
• June to September – 10 winners of PhP 100,000 cash
• October to December – 1 winner of PhP 1,000,000 cash

3) All qualified entries during the promo duration will be drawn thru a computer-based random generated system of Cebuana Lhuillier. The raffle draw will be held on the following dates at the ICT Office 3/F The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor. Comet Sts., Bel-Air, Makati City, with the presence of a DTI representative.

4) All qualified clients can only win once every raffle draw date.
5) All clients must update their personal information (e.g., name, address, active mobile/telephone no. and birthday) in their transacting Cebuana Lhuillier branch as this will be the basis of the marketing team in sending the registered mail and SMS to the winners.
6) All winners will receive a registered mail bearing the procedure on how they will be able to claim their prize. They must present the letter to their winning Cebuana Lhuillier branch together with a valid ID and tax identification number during the redemption period.
7) Announcement of winners will be shared thru the in-branch mini poster and social media pages of Cebuana Lhuillier.
8) Cebuana Lhuillier shall not be liable if the winners did not receive the registered mail due to outdated personal information.
9) All winners will only have sixty (60) calendar days to redeem their prize upon receipt of the registered mail. All unclaimed prizes will be forfeited in favor of Cebuana Lhuillier with prior approval from DTI.
10) Cebuana Lhuillier will shoulder the 20% tax in all cash prizes exceeding PhP10,000 in amount.
11) All employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, Ad/ Creatives Agency, PR and Media agencies and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity are disqualified from joining this promo.

“Okay, that sounds like a good promo, but how is Cebuana Lhuillier’s Money Remittance/Pera Padala service in general?”
Simply put, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pera Padala service is an easy, quick, and safe way to send and receive money within and outside the Philippines. You may claim the money as soon as the sender completes the remittance process in the branch! You may visit 2,500 branches nationwide and its wide network of accredited international partners. With decades of experience, you can expect Cebuana Lhuillier to safely send your hard-earned money towards your loved ones. It isn’t just about the smooth transaction at hand, it’s also about the experience of convenience and safety. While other establishments aren’t secured enough to handle money remittance with no or hassle, Cebuana Lhuillier always guaranties that their customers would not run into any hassle, may it be by technical or human error.

With the convenience and safeguards put in place, there is nothing left to do but to participate in the International Payout Cash Panalo. Take advantage of this once in a lifetime opportunity. Feel free to visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier b

Pawning – Looking up its mere definition would lead you to the sentence which describes it as the act of “depositing (an object) with a pawnbroker as security for money lent.” This act is most common here in the Philippines, with many of our fellow Filipinos facing an insurmountable heap of expenses, debt, and bills. This is most evident with the current pandemic, with many people losing their jobs, their businesses, and their usual source of income. No matter your status in life, surely, you may have felt the financial blow of the pandemic as well. Luckily for us, pawnshops are very accessible and are always around the corner. But out of all the pawnshops in the country, there is one which stood the test of time, and is always ready to serve the Filipino people, come rain or shine.

 

Cebuana Lhuillier has been around for decades, complementing its many innovations and developments throughout the years. Not to be mistaken for a mere pawnshop, it has expanded its reach towards other financial transactions and services as well, such as Microinsurance, Microsavings, Microloans, etc. In spite of its many changes, however, it still hasn’t loss its footing when it came to its main offered service of pawning. The excellent service and efficient transaction just improved overtime, thus, making itself a mainstay in the hearts of Filipinos nationwide.

 

Now, with our country’s current situation, Cebuana Lhuillier stuck to their mantra of helping out the Filipino people, especially during these trying times. Which is why they’ve introduced a certain promo that may very well help out our lucky Kababayans who are in dire need. Introducing, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Sangla Papremyo 2020!

 

What is Cebuana Lhuillier’s Sangla Papremyo 2020?

Cebuana Lhuillier’s Sangla Papremyo 2020 is a raffle promo implemented within Cebuana Lhuillier’s Pawning service. The promo mechanics are as follows:

 

1. For first-time pawning clients (New Sangla):

• Promo duration is from May 18 to Dec 31, 2020.
• This promo is open to new and existing new prenda clients.
• There are two components for this promo:

 

1. Instant Gratification – open to new clients who will pawn for the first time.

-All new clients who will pawn for the first time. Each qualified new prenda client will get one (1) instant prize depending on his/her principal amount

1. Raffle – This promo is open to new and existing new prenda clients.

-Each client who will have any of the following will earn one (1) e-raffle entry depending on the transactions availed.

 

4) Drawing of winners will happen at P.J Lhuillier, Inc. ICT Office 3/F, The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor., Bel-Air, Makati City 1209. This will be done with the presence of DTI representative.

5) Non-winning entries in the monthly draw can still be drawn in the succeeding months. In the grand draw, all entries from May 18 to December 31, 2020 will be included.

6) A client may only win once for the duration of the promo. In case a name is drawn more than once in a draw date, he/she gets the prize of higher value.

7) Winners will be announced on branch and thru digital platforms.

8) All winners will be notified via SMS and thru registered mail.

9)Prizes will be deposited to the client’s Micro Savings Account. For winners without the Micro Savings Account, they must proceed to the nearest branch and present a valid ID and the registered mail and a branch personnel will assist them in account opening.

10) PJ. Lhuillier Inc. will pay the 20% tax for the prizes exceeding Php10,000.

11) Unclaimed prize within 60 days upon receipt of notification will be forfeited upon the approval of DTI in favor of Cebuana Lhuillier.

12) Employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, agencies and services and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity are not qualified to join the e-raffle.

II. For existing Cebuana Lhuillier clients (Renewal):

• Promo duration is from January 15 to December 31, 2020.
• This promo is open to all existing Cebuana Lhuillier pawning clients.
• To join, all existing Cebuana Lhuillier pawning clients must renew their pawned items within the promo duration.
• Number of entries will depend on the kind of renewal transactions availed.

 

5) Drawing of winners will happen at P.J Lhuillier, Inc. ICT Office 3/F, The Networld Hub 156 Jupiter cor., Bel-Air, Makati City 1209. This will be done with the presence of DTI representative.

6) Non-winning entries in the monthly draw can still be drawn in the succeeding months. In the grand draw, all entries from January 15 to December 31, 2020 will be included.

7) Winners will be announced on branch and thru digital platforms.

8) The winner/s will be notified via SMS/registered mail. Prizes will be deposited to the clients’ Micro Saving aaccounts.

9) PJ Lhuillier Inc. will pay the 20% tax for the prizes exceeding Php10,000.

10) Unclaimed prize within 60 days upon receipt of notification will be forfeited upon the approval of DTI in favour of Cebuana Lhuillier.

10)Employees of P.J. Lhuillier Group of Companies, agencies and services and their relatives up to second degree of consanguinity or affinity are not qualified to join the e-raffle.

 

So, what are you waiting for? Take advantage of this once in a lifetime promo. Feel free to visit your nearest Cebuana Lhuillier branch now!

Stay Safe! – A common statement that you’d usually receive from your family, friends, and loved ones during the quarantine period. If you were already cautious even before COVID-19 hit our nation, then obviously it may be easier for you to adjust to the “new normal,” but if you were as carefree and complacent as in the previous years, then perhaps there are more steps that you must take in order to prevent acquiring the virus at all cost. Now, you might have been reading news articles, magazine interviews, and social media notifications from health experts about the indications and precautionary measures that you must take when going about your daily life. While some of them are simple enough to follow, most of them may have been explained better, owing to the fact that not all health experts are fluent speakers when it comes to translating complicated keywords into layman’s term. But no need to worry, as we at Cebuana Lhuillier have always been concerned about the welfare and safety of our beloved customers and patrons, and we have compiled a few of the dos and don’ts when it comes to adjusting to the “new normal.”  Here are things to consider before, during, and after going about your daily errands during the pandemic.

Before heading out:

• Prepare the necessary protective gear and items.

By now, you may have already been oriented about the importance of wearing a good, protective mask when heading outdoors. Some would choose re-washable cloth masks, while others may prefer to avail N95 masks for their daily ordeals, but out of all these choices, a surgical mask would always be a better option. Experts would always tell you that each side of the surgical mask has a purpose, and they’re not wrong. Wearing your mask properly would protect you in the long run. Aside from that, planning out your route before heading out would save you ample time and money, especially as the government has implemented various reroutes and policies when it came to outdoor activities, so be informed at all times. Prepare a shopping list before going out for restocks, consult your family members about the things that they’d need for the upcoming weeks and months. No do overs, no repetitive travels, as the longer you stay outdoors, the bigger your chances are of catching the infection. And also, do not forget to bring a small bottle of alcohol, make it a habit to disinfect your hands every once in a while. Do the same with your money, spray a bit in your coin purse just to be sure.

 

• If you’re heading outdoors with a ride, make sure that it’s in perfect condition to travel, regardless of distance and weather.

May it be a car or a motorcycle, make sure that it’s fueled up and well-maintained. If not, you may find yourself stranded in the middle of the road, and it’s the last thing you’d want to happen, especially during a pandemic. Check if the engine’s running well, check if the tires have an ample amount of air, check the emission, etc.

 

 

 

While outdoors:

• If you happen to come across friends or familiar people while outdoors, avoid hugs or handshakes.

We know, it’s frustrating and you haven’t seen them for a few months, but not shaking their hands would at least protect you both, giving you more healthy opportunities in the future to meet up and finally shake hands once the virus dies down. A simple nod, short conversation (while social distancing, of course), and even a salute would at least let them know that you miss them and that you are looking forward to meeting them again after the quarantine period.

 

• Avoid touching any surfaces as much as possible.

All establishments (including malls and groceries) were mandated by the government to disinfect their areas regularly. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you should confidently and carelessly touch all of the railings and tables that you’d come across outside your home. As much as possible, avoid holding or touching anything else other than the items that you’re going to avail when going for supplies. Remember, COVID-19 isn’t an airborne virus, it is transmitted by touch. If an infected person were to touch or cough towards a particular surface, the virus would remain on that same surface for a certain amount of time, and being in contact with that would be very dangerous (even fatal) to any unsuspecting bystanders.

 

Before re-entering your home:

• Make sure that you’ve properly disinfected your hands before touching anything else indoors.

The thing about viruses is that they can’t be seen by the naked eye, and by the time that you or others have been fully infected, it may already be too late. COVID-19, in particular, has a certain incubation period, meaning that you wouldn’t feel the symptoms until after a week or two. When that happens, the virus may have already spread among your loved ones. To avoid that, make sure that you spray a lot of disinfectant on your hands. Wash them again with soap just to be sure. If that’s not enough, immediately put your outdoor clothes in the laundry basket and take a bath to fully clean off any unwanted germ or microbe which may have attached itself on you while you were outdoors.

 

• Spray and disinfect the grocery items before taking them indoors.

Of course, you can’t do this with fast food items, unless you want your chicken to taste like isopropyl alcohol. What you can do for fast food items, may it be delivered, picked up or bought for take-out, you can re-heat it in the microwave or oven as advised as a safety precaution to prevent getting the virus. Spray those canned goods and plastic-wrapped items such as chips, pasta shells, sugar, etc. Any item which is well-covered could be disinfected, any food item bought with openings should be wiped clean instead. Just make sure that you left no stones unturned. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

 

Now, understandably, you may want to handle all of your errands within the comfort of your home. Of course, who would want to get out if there’s a rampant virus on the loose? Many of us have been “working-from-home” since the quarantine period began, but not a lot of errands would allow you to accomplish that. There are still many paperwork tasks which may require you to get out of the house, wait in line, and wait for your name to be called by the cashier or establishment representative. One major example would be money remittance, a process etched in traditional means that the average Filipino can only dream of accomplishing it in other convenient ways. Fortunately, Cebuana Lhuillier came up with a solution that would cater to all of their long-time customers and patrons. Introducing the all-new Cebuana from Home! It is an online service which would enable customers to accomplish Cebuana Lhuillier’s financial transactions remotely. No longer would people even need to leave their homes for financial transactions such as domestic remittance, insurance applications/consultations, and payments. All of these can be accomplished in just a few clicks. So instead of risking your health and well-being outdoors, check out Cebuana from Home at https://remitfromhome.cebuanalhuillier.com/.

Unprepared – a word which would best describe everyone when COVID-19 first hit our shores. Yes, we’ve been hearing news about the virus since the beginning of 2020, but the tough realization came at a rapid pace around the middle of March. Many Filipinos did not expect the viral infection to spread that fast, not even by today’s strict travel and hygiene standards. Of course, almost everyone’s first reaction towards the virus was panic, fear that anyone of us may be infected anywhere, anytime. Some were even preparing themselves for the inevitable, stating that “it isn’t a matter of how, but when.”

This doesn’t mean that no one has a fighting chance against the virus, of course. No, as a matter of fact, as of this writing, 11,453 people had already recovered, with only 1,290 casualties in record. However, the positive cases are still up by 41,830, which begs the question, “How unprepared were we before the virus even hit our nation?” Were we really that unperceptive towards international news? Were we too complacent, not believing that such a rampant virus would hit Philippine waters? Alas, it would be too late to contemplate on that. After all, the best that we can do right now is to make the most out of what we have, and what we have may not be enough to support us for the unforeseeable end of the quarantine period.

So, the question is, what can we do to protect our finances during the pandemic? How may we survive our family with whatever’s left of our budget and remaining finances? The answer? By availing a good insurance service, of course.

What are the advantages of having an insurance during the quarantine period?
1) Helps lower your medical expenses.
Let’s get this out of the way first, the most efficient way to save during the pandemic would be to reduce your expenses, unfortunately, medical expenses in the Philippines would always be at an all-time high. At least having an insurance would help cut your medical cost, enabling you to set aside a few amounts even after the whole ordeal.

2) Insurance coverage isn’t limited to you and you alone.
Depending on your availed insurance package, some would include your family and loved ones within the same coverage, thus, cutting down on their medical expenses as well. Think of it as an extension of your love and concern for them. No longer would you have to worry about rushing anyone of them towards the nearest hospital if the need were to arise, you have your insurance to cover for them.

3) Insurance companies usually update their coverages.
Some, if not most insurance companies would usually update their coverage packages, hence, even if COVID-19 were a fairly new virus strain to begin with, any infection by the said virus would still be covered by your chosen package. Of course, you’d still have to survive the ordeal and hope for the best if worst comes to worst, but at least your insurance would cover the expenses for you, after which your only concern would have to be about your recovery.

Okay, now that we’ve learned about the advantages of having an insurance during the pandemic, you may ask, “Are there any good and affordable recommendations out there when it comes to insurance?” Well, look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMAX.

What is ProtectMAX?
Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMAX is a microinsurance product designed for individuals aged 7 to 70 years old with Death Benefit, Accident or Sickness Emergency Cash Assistance, Accidental Dismemberment and/or Disablement, Murder and Unprovoked Assault and Residential Fire Reconstruction cash assistance. For as low as P50, each certificate is valid for four (4) months from the date of issuance and can be availed up to a maximum of 5 certificates per insured.

Simply put, it is your very affordable alternative to those other well-known, yet costlier insurance packages.

Okay, such micro insurances usually allow me to have a beneficiary. Is my family qualified to be some of them?
No worries, they absolutely are. The qualified beneficiaries are your legal spouse, your kids who are of legal age (18 years old), your parents (which includes your mother and father), and your siblings (should be of legal age as well, married or single would still count).

As you can see, the list of beneficiaries isn’t really very limited, and it is understandable, as Cebuana Lhuillier is very much aware for the average Filipino’s need for a good insurance that would cover them in times of need, especially during the quarantine period.

What are the Premiums?
You just need to pay P50. That’s it, no tricks or gimmicks. For as low as P50, you may avail this amazing Microinsurance.

Of course, that’s not the only available premium. For just the price of P250, you may acquire a higher coverage:

Regardless of the premium that you’d avail, you’re sure to find value for your money and security for the future of your family. But even that would just be the tip of the iceberg, as the claiming process itself isn’t even difficult, unlike other establishments who are offering their insurance services. For Cebuana Lhuillier’s ProtectMax, the process would entail the following:

The Claiming Process:
1) In the event of a claim, the claimant shall submit the complete claim at any Cebuana Lhuillier branch nationwide.
2) Cebuana Lhuillier Branch Personnel shall review the completeness of all claim documents and submit to Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Solutions (CLIS) (depending on the type of claim) for claims evaluation and approval; the review shall be done in accordance with the guidelines of Pioneer Insurance and Surety Corporation (PISC).
3) CLIS will submit final advice, within 48 hours to the BP and claimant the status of the claim.

a. If a claim is approved, CLIS Head Office will pay the claimant in advance thru Pera Padala.
b. If the claim is Denied, CLIS Head Office shall send letter of denial to the claimant.

For the requirements, be sure to transact with authorized Cebuana Lhuillier personnel for more information.

The current pandemic brought many changes, not just in our country, but throughout the world as well. Our lifestyles, our work routines, our commute, and even the way we spend our money has dramatically changed overnight. Understandably, it may take a while before people can fully adjust to these changes. It is never an easy task, after all. But out of all the things that people need to change and improve on, the aspect which involves financials will always be the one to garner resistance among others. People have a certain relationship with money that makes it very difficult to both attain and maintain. On one hand, people always have the urge to earn more money while dreading the hard work that goes with it, on the other hand, they tend to forget all of that hardship once they already have the cash in their pockets, going for expensive purchases rather than the most affordable ones. This is an evident case of a person’s bad habit, lack of discipline, and shortsightedness.

Admittedly, the current pandemic became somewhat of a wakeup call. People began spending less, setting aside a few hundred for upcoming purchases and planning out the essentials that would be re-stocked for the foreseeable future. However, even if people were to save up, it still wouldn’t be enough to survive the never-ending quarantine period. Yes, you did the right thing by not emptying out your bank account, but that would amount to nothing if you’d still avail expensive and unnecessary items. “What are these unnecessary items?” you may ask. Look no further than our list of essential must-haves and must-avoid purchases during the quarantine period.

The Essential Must-Haves:
1) Disinfectants and Hygiene Products
When we say disinfectants, they’re the usual lineup of products that are manufactured to deal with a huge amount of germs and microbes. Your bottle of isopropyl alcohol, no matter how small it is, can definitely pack a punch when it comes to getting rid of the surrounding germs. The same thing can be said about other cleaning agents such as soap, hand wipes (the ones formulated in rubbing alcohol), bleach (for your home surfaces), and detergents (a bucket full of them may be used to wash away dirty surfaces).

2) Fruits and Vegetables
The riskiest thing about the rampant virus is that no cure has been found yet. Neither has there been any vaccine either, so everyone’s survival would all really depend on the strength of a person’s immune system. If you have a strong immune system, then you’d at least have a fighting chance when going up against this deadly virus. The same thing can’t be said about everyone, unfortunately, which is why fruits and vegetables are a must-have essential part of everyone’s meals. We’ve all been taught by our parents and teachers from a very young age to value nutritious food, to always include them in our daily meals, and to choose them over junk foods. This lesson definitely made its presence felt, especially now that we need our immune system to function like one of those ancient armors we see in our favorite historical shows. A knight is only strong as his valiant sword and his strong, shiny armor, and unfortunately for us, the only thing standing right between us and the virus, is that shiny armor (the immune system), with no sword (cure/vaccine) in hand. We used to take healthy food for granted, but due to the current situation, it’s about time to take things seriously and to include green, leafy vegetables and fresh fruits in our daily intake, that is, if we even want to have a fighting chance at the rate of the current pandemic.

3) PPEs and Protective Gears
This is a bit tricky, as not only is it difficult to find a complete PPE set nowadays (thanks to the shortage caused by the pandemic), it may also be a bit costly (due to the law of supply and demand, lesser supply means a higher cost). Now, you may find a few local stores selling face masks per piece (some would even sell them by tens), and they’re very much accessible. However, face shields, gloves, and protective robes, may require you to look a bit further than your nearest store if ever you were in need of a whole set. Understandably, manufacturers are prioritizing frontliners, so PPE sets in general aren’t going to be found in stores, but in hospital laboratories and wards. The best that you can do is to at least buy yourself a few pieces of masks and be cautious when travelling. Incomplete gear means that you should do your best when social distancing. If you do get an opportunity to avail a whole PPE set, however, go for it! Nothing is more valuable than being protected at all times.

The Nonessentials to Avoid:
1) Flashy and Expensive Clothing
At this point, buying expensive apparel is like throwing away your money. There used to be a time when you’d buy flashy, trendy clothes to show off your friends in the mall, but that may no longer be part of the “new normal,” due to the fact that a) you may not be able to see your friends for a long time, due to the travel restrictions set in place b) malls are usually closed these days, only opening their doors for limited hours, after which you may have already completed your grocery errand c) everyone is too busy and cautious to even notice the clothes that you are wearing, so wearing something trendy is useless. The thing is, people are too busy minding their own business while social distancing and buying their supplies, so they may not even take a second look at you, especially if you’re not an acquaintance or a familiar face.

2) Expensive Gadgets
You must prioritize functionality over fashion. Instead of buying expensive cellphones, go for cheaper alternatives which would still enable you to communicate with loved ones from faraway places. Remember, there is nothing wrong with availing communication devices, such as cellphones, tablets, or even small laptops (especially if you’re work-from-home), the problem lies within the price tag. There are always more affordable options when buying gadgets in the market, and as long as they function the way that they are supposed to, you have no need for the well-known brands which will only eat up a huge amount from your budget and savings.

3) Junk Foods and Sweets
While not expensive when it comes to their usual price tag, junk foods and sweets may not be the best choice when it comes to shopping for food supplies. They offer nothing of value when it comes to nutrients, they cause more cavities than your average fruits and vegetables, and they also do nothing when it comes to strengthening your immune system. Sure, they are the most accessible types of food and snacks, even during this time of shortages and factory shutdowns, but the fact that they are least prioritized at a time when hunger is just around the corner says a lot about their current standing when it comes to people’s nutritious needs.

Now, at this time of crisis and uncertainty, the proper use of your budget is a must. It may not be an easy task, but if you’re the breadwinner and provider of your family, your focus towards an efficient way of budgeting would help in the long run. Of course, it isn’t just about the efficient use of money, it’s all about setting aside a few amounts for your future. Luckily, your most trusted pawnshop is here to stay and is always open to serve you with your dire needs when it comes to savings. Look no further than Cebuana Lhuillier’s Micro Savings services. At its core, it aims to provide easier banking access to Filipinos. The product is almost the same with any regular savings account in the Philippines, with the main difference of requiring at least a P500 Average Daily Balance for interest to incur. So what are you waiting for? Feel free to visit the nearest Cebuana Lhuillier now!