Filipinos save for different reasons depending on their stage in life, a recent Metrobank (Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company) survey suggests. Younger adults focus on financial security and personal needs, working adults prioritize buying a home or funding travel, and middle-aged savers concentrate on retirement and their children’s education.
For many, saving is a way to feel prepared for the future. Elders often remind the younger generation to “mag-ipon (to save),” advice that continues to this day. While priorities have shifted over time, the goal remains the same: financial security and peace of mind.
The survey, conducted in October with more than 1,200 respondents who answered the question “Para saan ang ipon mo?”, found that 21% of Filipinos save primarily to build an emergency fund or set aside money for future needs. Other common goals include buying or improving a home, cited by 16% of respondents, and leisure activities such as travel, concerts, or hobbies, mentioned by 14%.
Savings goals also vary by location. In Metro Manila, financial stability is the leading motivator, with 23% of respondents listing it as their main goal. Home-related expenses follow at 19%, and travel or leisure at 17%. Outside the capital, education takes priority, with 20% saving for tuition or other school-related costs for themselves or family members. Metrobank said these differences show both access and opportunity: residents in Metro Manila generally earn more and have easier access to schools and financial services, while those in other regions see education as a path to a better future.
Age also influences savings behavior. Young adults (18-24) save mostly for financial security, followed by personal purchases such as gadgets or clothes (21%) and education expenses (18%). Working adults (25-44) focus on home ownership and financial stability, each cited by 23%, while 18% save for travel and leisure. Among middle-aged respondents (45-64), retirement (23%) and children’s education (20%) are top priorities, with 14% saving for travel.
Metrobank offers tools to help Filipinos reach their financial goals. Its eSavings Account allows first-time deposit clients to save, manage, and grow money digitally. Clients maintaining a minimum balance of ₱2,000 receive benefits such as AXA life insurance coverage up to ₱1 million, up to four InstaPay rebates per month, and the ability to invest in Online Time Deposit with interest of up to 4.5% per year.
Opening an account requires downloading the Metrobank App, submitting personal details and ID, and making an initial deposit of ₱2,000. Once verified, clients can access the full range of Metrobank services, including credit cards, home loans, and investments.