A recent survey by Metrobank has shed light on the evolving financial priorities of Filipinos, revealing that reasons for saving change significantly through different stages of life. Conducted in October 2025 with over 1,200 respondents, the study asked the pivotal question: "Para saan ang ipon mo?" (What are you saving for?). The findings paint a clear picture of a nation focused on future preparedness, guided by the enduring cultural advice to "mag-ipon."
From Emergencies to Education: A Nation's Savings Blueprint
The survey indicates that for many, saving is fundamentally about creating a safety net. Approximately 21% of Filipinos save primarily to build an emergency fund or set aside money for future needs. This aligns with broader national data, as the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas' 2021 Financial Inclusion Survey found that roughly 4 in 5 savers allocate funds for emergencies.
Beyond security, other major goals include buying or improving a home, which motivates about 16% of respondents, and funding leisure activities like travel or hobbies, cited by 14%. However, these priorities are not uniform across the archipelago and vary notably by location and life stage.
Location and Age: Key Factors in Financial Planning
Geography plays a crucial role in shaping savings objectives. In Metro Manila, financial stability is the leading motivator (23%), followed by home-related expenses (19%) and travel or leisure (17%). Outside the capital, the focus shifts dramatically, with education becoming the top priority. About 20% of respondents in other regions save for tuition or school-related costs for themselves or family members.
Metrobank analysts note this reflects differences in access and opportunity. Residents in the National Capital Region generally have higher incomes and easier access to schools and financial services, while those in other regions often see education as a critical investment for a better future.
Age further delineates savings behavior:
- Young Adults (18-24): Financial security is the top goal. Personal purchases like gadgets or clothes follow at 21%, and education-related expenses motivate 18%. Notably, for young Filipinos outside Metro Manila, about 1 in 4 save specifically for schooling.
- Working Adults (25-44): This group tends to prioritize home ownership and financial stability equally, with each cited by 23% of respondents. Travel and leisure remain important for 18%.
- Middle-Aged (45-64): Priorities pivot towards long-term security and family. About 23% save for retirement, 20% for children's education and future needs, and 14% for travel.
Building Your Future with Metrobank eSavings
To support Filipinos in achieving these diverse financial goals, Metrobank has streamlined the process of starting a savings journey. The Metrobank eSavings Account is a secure digital account designed for first-time depositors, allowing them to save, manage, and grow their money with ease.
Opening an account is a fully digital process. Users need only download the Metrobank App, tap 'Open an Account', and follow the prompts to provide personal information, scan a valid ID, and take a selfie for verification. An initial deposit of P2,000 must be made within seven days to activate the account, leading to full verification within one to two days.
Clients who maintain the minimum P2,000 balance enjoy several benefits, including:
- AXA life insurance coverage of up to P1 million, including terminal illness coverage (for accounts opened on or before December 31, 2025).
- Up to four InstaPay rebates per month.
- The ability to invest in an Online Time Deposit with an interest rate of up to 4.5% per annum.
This account not only helps clients work steadily toward their savings goals but also establishes a long-term financial partnership with the bank, streamlining future access to credit cards, home loans, and investment opportunities. The survey underscores that while specific goals may shift from buying a first gadget to securing a retirement fund, the underlying aim for Filipinos remains constant: achieving financial security and peace of mind.
