According to a study by lending firm Skyro, many Filipinos are expected to focus on buying essential, high-value items this year. This trend shows a shift toward spending on things that make life easier, more comfortable, and better for the long term.
“These purchases reflect the need for tools that improve everyday life and help balance work and personal time,” said Lowen Medina, head of POS business at Skyro.
Consumer spending often follows seasonal patterns. For example, in the summer of 2024, the extreme heat led to a surge in air conditioner sales. The back-to-school season increased demand for laptops and printers.
“By understanding these trends, we can create financial solutions that match what people need at the right time,” said Dmitriy Vavulidi, Skyro’s head of product.
What Filipinos are buying
Skyro’s data shows that gadgets like smartphones and laptops remain top choices for many consumers. Home appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners are also popular, alongside furniture designed for comfortable work-from-home setups. From 2023 to mid-2024, mobile phone sales grew by 12%, with Filipinos spending more on better connectivity.
Mindanao has been highlighted as a region with excellent repayment habits, driven by a culture of careful spending and strong community values.
“The repayment behavior in Mindanao is impressive and shows the region’s financial discipline,” Dmitriy noted.
Younger adults, aged 20 to 44, prefer online shopping for gadgets and stylish furniture. They also use digital wallets more frequently, favoring cashless transactions. Middle-aged adults, aged 45-65, focus on durable items like appliances and often shop in stores for major purchases. Seniors, aged 66 and above, tend to buy health-related items and basic appliances, with a growing interest in online shopping, usually based on family recommendations.
To make these purchases easier, Skyro offers flexible loans, including 0% interest options and a Flexi loan feature.
“Our goal is to help customers buy what they need without worrying about paying everything at once,” said Lowen.
Skyro also promotes its Skyro Pocket product, which simplifies digital payments and rewards users with 1% cashback.
“This product makes shopping easier while encouraging smart spending,” Dmitriy added.