Metrobank has long been a financial institution that champions learning, and this time, it’s teaching Filipinos the art of starting early. In a recent event, the bank invited media guests to the art of furoshiki—the Japanese tradition of gift-wrapping—where every fold, every knot, and every gesture is done with intention. It’s a philosophy that mirrors financial mindfulness: everything has a purpose, and nothing is left to chance.

“Our mission is to advocate for financial mindfulness and intentionality in the Philippines,” says Digs Dimagiba, Metrobank’s chief marketing officer. “Personally, what I believe is that anybody who learns how to manage their money well actually rewires their brain and sets them up to make better decisions in other areas of life.”

In the Philippines, the Christmas season unofficially kicks off in the ber months. But for Metrobank, it starts even earlier because August, they say, is the best month to begin your financial resolutions.

While January often feels like the ultimate reset button, it might not be the most strategic time to commit to new habits. Studies show that eight out of 10 people fail to keep their New Year’s resolutions made in January. The reason? It comes right after the holiday season, the biggest spending period of the year. The Philippine Statistics Authority even reports that Filipinos spend the most in the year’s last quarter, often leading to a “financial hangover.”

Metrobank’s smarter approach: Start in August. By setting your goals now, you can enter the holiday season prepared—not pressured. You can direct your upcoming bonuses and extra income toward meaningful goals and start building better habits before the year ends.

Metrobank’s G.I.F.T. framework makes financial planning simple and actionable:

- Get guided with goals by using August to strategically map out your finances for the year ahead

- Invest a portion of your bonus by committing part of your holiday windfall to investments that grow over time

- Follow a budget so you can give meaningful gifts without overspending during the holidays

- Take advantage of deals by seeking out offers that help you maximize your money.

Following the success of its 2024 launch, Metrobank is rolling out the #EarlyGIFTChallenge by inviting Filipinos to set one smart financial goal this August and share it online. The idea is simple: Spark inspiration within your circle so friends, family, and communities can join in, creating a ripple effect of financial empowerment.

“We encourage all Filipinos to become more financially mindful and resilient by redefining our usual holiday traditions when it comes to financial planning,” says Digs. “Take the time to reflect, make just one smart goal you can publicly commit to, and inspire others to join you. This way, you—and your family and friends—can finally accomplish your resolutions and grow together.”