This year has been a challenge for countries and individuals around the world. Yet, our customers, partners and colleagues in The Philippines have perhaps endured more than most.
Not one but two super typhoons hit the archipelago.
These, and the impacts of COVID-19 have had a very real effect on the country’s economy and morale.
We at Small World provide a trusted service tailored to meet the needs of customers who send money to The Philippines to support their families and local communities. We serve as a bridge between Filipinos living at home and worldwide, helping to bolster the “Bayanihan” spirit and provide the financial support needed to heal.
Therefore, always resilient in the face of adversity, the Filipino population is ready as ever to bounce back.
So, here’s why Christmas 2020 is more important than ever before.
The effects of COVID-19
The World Bank describes The Philippines as “one of the most dynamic economies in the East Asia Pacific region”. And, despite its economy managing to sustain an average annual growth of 6.4% between 2010 and 2019, this is expected to end.
However, the same reasons cited for the dynamic nature of the economy — increasing urbanisation, a growing middle class, a large and young population, strong labour and consumer markets, and “robust remittances” — are also every bit reasons why it is expected to rebound.
Remittance is one very tangible way that overseas Filipino workers OFW’s can support both their loved ones and the economy and when better to send money than in time for Christmas Day?
Why is remittance so important?
Due to COVID and both Typhoons Vamco and Goni remittance to The Philippines in 2020 matter even more. When you send money, that money is used by our customers for a whole range of things, from basic daily necessities to business ventures. But, this year, it’s even more important.
The money is needed by individuals and communities to: rebuild houses and businesses; for personal care and hygiene; medical support; food security; and, since most of the schools are closed, educational support and resources for online and remote learning.
Remittance is one way to help your loved ones rise up and enable them to continue with their family traditions: to still enjoy Noche Buenas and Media Noches. Also to give and receive gifts as usual; and to celebrate a truly merry Christmas, despite all the challenges of 2020.
How to send money to the Philippines with Small World
There are five ways to send money to the Philippines with Small World.
- Bank deposit: Send money directly to a bank account
- Cash pickup: Send money for cash pickup
- Cash card reload: Top-up a prepaid cash card
- Airtime top-up: Transfer money to a mobile provider as airtime
- Home delivery: Your transfer is delivered straight to a home address
And remember, your first online transaction is fee-FREE.
Christmas in The Philippines
Because Christmas in The Philippines isn’t just Christmas Day... As our Filipino customers well know, Christmas begins in September and rolls on until The Feast of the Three Kings on the first Sunday of January.
And what is Christmas in The Philippines like?
While Christmas carols can be heard from September, the first official celebrations start on 16 December with the first of nine early morning masses called the 'Misa de Gallo' or 'Simbang Gabi' in Filipino.
Customs are a blend of different cultural traditions from Portugal, Spain and The Philippines itself and include Santa Claus and Christmas trees, cards and carols. One Filipino tradition is the 'parol': a bamboo pole carrying a lighted star lantern, which represents the star that guided the wise men in the Christmas Story.
Christmas Eve is the most important day of celebrations in the Philippines with many people staying awake all night for the Christmas Eve mass followed by Noche Buena, the ultimate midnight feast.
By sending money to The Philippines, you become a part of every family's celebration. As well as the money, you send a message of hope to your loved ones. And, for our customers, we at Small World send our own well wishes.
Why not ask your loved ones how they would like to receive their money and send them a Christmas gift?
The most popular ways to send money to The Philippines:
- Bank deposit
- Cash pick-up
- Home delivery
Our main partners in The Philippines are BDO, BPI, Filremit, Metrobank, PNB, LANDBANK, EastWest
