Financial literacy isn't just about balancing a checkbook or knowing how to invest. Sometimes, it's as simple (and profound) as a child asking, “Is that a necessity or just a luxury?”
For Major Maria Theresa Babiera of the Philippine Army, that moment with her seven-year-old daughter was a touching reminder of the importance of financial education—not just for soldiers, but for their families too.
Thanks to the financial literacy programs spearheaded by BDO Foundation, in partnership with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), lessons in money management have found their way from seminar rooms into Filipino homes.
Financial Lessons at Home: A Personal Story
At a recent town hall event called Kita-Kita, organized by BDO Foundation and the BSP, Maj. Babiera shared a story that struck a chord with many. While walking through a mall with her daughter, she asked the little girl if she wanted anything.
Her daughter paused and responded, “Mom, is that a necessity or something unimportant? You don’t need to buy it for me if it’s a luxury.”
That one sentence, simple yet wise, captured everything Maj. Babiera had hoped to pass on through financial discipline: an understanding of needs vs. wants, and the value of saving over spending.
“It made me realize how effectively I’ve shared the value of money with my daughter,” Maj. Babiera said, crediting her knowledge to attending financial education seminars and learning from BDO Foundation’s financial literacy modules.
Making Financial Literacy a Way of Life in the Military
Since 2019, BDO Foundation has been working closely with the AFP and BSP to enhance financial education in the military sector. Through a signed Memorandum of Agreement, the goal is clear: to equip both uniformed and civilian personnel with practical skills in budgeting, saving, investing, managing debt, and avoiding scams.
This initiative has already reached over 50,000 AFP personnel, transforming the way soldiers think about their finances. What was once an optional skill is now a key part of career development and personal well-being.
BDO Foundation President Mario Deriquito noted a growing interest in investment opportunities among soldiers following these training sessions. “Participants are now eager to explore various financial products,” he shared.
But it doesn’t stop at investing. Debt management and fraud prevention remain top priorities, ensuring soldiers are not just financially empowered—but protected, too.
Financial Wellness and Focused Service
Navy Capt. Michael Barrion echoed the program’s impact, noting that financially literate soldiers are more focused, less stressed, and more reliable in their duties.
“Almost one out of two Filipino soldiers are now trained in financial literacy,” he said. “We’ve developed 76 trainers and incorporated financial education into our career programs.”
The AFP has even gone a step further by including financial education in each soldier’s personal scorecard, making it a measurable part of their growth—not just as servicemen and women, but as financially capable individuals.
Building a Stronger Future Through Financial Education
Financial literacy may start with formal training, but as Maj. Babiera’s story shows, it’s the everyday decisions—big and small—that truly reflect its value.
Through the collective efforts of BDO Foundation, AFP, and BSP, Filipino soldiers are not just being equipped to serve the country—they're being empowered to build secure, financially stable lives for themselves and their families.
And sometimes, the most powerful lessons are passed down not in the barracks, but in quiet moments with a child who already understands the true worth of money.