Although the Philippines is a breathtakingly beautiful country, it’s not without its hiccups. Being close to the Pacific Ring of Fire made the archipelago susceptible to some of the nastiest typhoons the world has ever seen. So if you happen to make your home in the Philippines, best be financially prepared for any incoming storms. Below are a few more reasons why you should take our word for it.

To Buy Food and Water

Typhoons in the Philippines can get really intense to the point that public markets get shut down. This leaves many people starving and parched during and after the storm, as well as leaves the country temporarily paralyzed. However, by having emergency funds saved, you can get enough food and water prior to the typhoon’s landfall and make sure you and your family have everything you need while waiting things out.

To Fix Your House

Sometimes, storms hitting the Philippines can leave your home damaged at its wake. By being financially prepared, you’ll be able to have your house fixed afterward. Did the storm rip out the roof from your ceiling? Just get new ones! Are any of your windows broken? Just have the glass replaced! With enough money, your house can weather any storm that comes their way.

To Replace Broken Stuff

Financial stability will also enable you to have enough cash to replace any stuff in your home that’s beyond repair. Say your home gets flooded and your couch and television set got drenched. Using your emergency funds, you’ll be able to get new sofas and appliances.

To Meet Medical Needs

Another thing you need to deal with after typhoons are yours and your loved ones’ health. More likely than not, the storm will leave you and your family ill. So it’s best if you set an appointment with your doctor as soon as the storm has passed. And saving money can ease your medical expenses tremendously.

To Make Cleaning Up Easier

Last but not least, storms can leave your house very messy indeed. Now you can do the clean-up all by yourself. However, that would take a lot of your time and will leave you bone-tired, especially if your home got flooded. By having extra money, you’ll be able to hire professionals to do the cleaning for you. They might even do a better job than you since that’s what they’re trained to do!

One More Reason

As you can see, having emergency money for storms and typhoons can be very helpful. But in case you’re still unconvinced, here’s one last reason: to help others. You’re not the only victim here, you know, so if you still have money to spare after you cleaned up your home, best use it to aid your neighbors.

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Why It’s Important to Have Savings During Typhoons

Are you thinking of going on a road trip with your used or brand new car? Then best make sure you have a good playlist! Whether it’s a short or long car ride, listening to songs is a terrific way to make your cruise smoother. From old classics to more recent releases, songs have a way of getting you on a good mood while behind the wheel. Try the following songs below to see for yourself.

Mr. Brightside by The Killers

Written by Dave Keuning and Brandon Flowers, Mr. Brightside is one of the first songs The Killers ever made. And it would go on to become their signature tune. With its enduring and exhilarating melodic power, it’s definitely a song you’ll love listening or even singing along to while on the road.

Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

Though he’s known to have collaborated with artists like Adele, Amy Winehouse, and Christina Aguilera, it was his hit Uptown Funk that put Mark Ronson on the spotlight. This song serves as a blast from the past, combining slightly naughty modern lyrics with the funkadelics that defined the early 80’s. And its hooky, horns-and synths-filled shout out to funk is more than enough to keep you in a good mood while driving.

Shut Up and Drive by Rihanna

But if you’re looking for something with a more feminine note, then Rihanna’s Shut Up and Drive would be your best bet. Despite its music video mostly having a forward and seductive tone to it, its lyrics seem to empower Rihanna, proving that she (and all other women by extension) should be treated equally with men.

See You Again by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth

Wiz Khalifa is known for making new great music every now and then. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that when the seventh installment of the Fast and Furious franchise was being made, he developed one of its most popular songs. See You Again is a calm and emotional song, capable of making you tear up every time you listen to it. And the fact that it’s somewhat a tribute to the late Paul Walker makes it an even more fantastic song.

Wrapping Up

Belt out these hits in your new or pre-owned car and you’ll have a great time on the road. Or better yet, why not sing along to these songs with your friends in tow. That way, you’ll all have a terrific road trip.
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Fun Songs You Can Enjoy Listening to While Driving

It’s crucial that you save cash while studying. Not only is doing so a good habit to make, but your saved money can also prove helpful in case of emergencies. But if you’re still unconvinced about it, let the following reasons change your mind.

To Buy Books and School Supplies

Books, particularly college textbooks, don’t come cheap. Sure, you can forgo buying them and hit the library instead, but there are moments when professors require you actually to have a copy of your own. And aside from books, you’ll also need to buy certain other school supplies (e.g., laboratory gown and goggles, bond papers, t-squares, and what-not), which can really take its toll financially. By saving money, you’ll be able to meet these challenges head-on.

For Emergency Purposes

As mentioned above, having extra cash can come quite handy in times of emergencies. For example, what if you suddenly get sick and need to be taken to the hospital? Sure, your parents are there to help money-wise, but what if their aid gets delayed and the management requires you make a down payment? By having emergency money, you’ll be able to ready yourself in case of unexpected financial constraints.

In Case There’s an Awesome Party

Saving money and getting good grades should be your topmost priorities while in school. Still, every once in a while, somebody throws a party where your campus’ who’s who will be attending. And no matter how smart you are, socializing is also vital if you want to succeed academically. So best be where all the fun is every now and then. And with saved cash, you’ll be able to go there in style.

So You Can Go on Dates

Say there’s a cute girl or guy in your class and you somehow managed to ask them out on dates. Obviously, you won’t impress them too much if you still have to ask your parents for an allowance just to take them out to some fancy restaurant! Instead of humiliating yourself that way, better get your date cash from the money you saved up while studying.

For First Car Purchase

It is during this phase when our want to finally have our own car starts to intensify. Not only because we see it as a good possession, but because we sense its importance in keeping us mobile given all activities there are in school and our soon-to-have jobs. Luckily, there are tons of affordable pre-owned car units students can choose from when selecting their first own ride.

Final Thoughts

Being a student can be difficult financial-wise. For one thing, you have to depend on your parents for your tuition fees and pocket money. And even if yozu do manage to land yourself a sweet part-time gig, you still need to balance your time between your work and your academics, both of which can be pretty challenging at times. By saving money, your academic life would be much more comfortable.
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Why Students Need to Save Money While in School

Due to brand new vehicles’ prices soaring at ridiculous levels, most Filipinos opt to buy pre-owned cars instead. Not only are they cheaper, but they can also be better in many ways. However, one of the hurdles you need to face should you ever go secondhand is transferring the ownership of the auto to your name. So to help you out, below are the steps you need to follow.

Photocopy the Vehicle’s OR and CR

This step is relatively easy since you’ll probably get the principal copy of the car’s Original Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR) during the purchase. Photocopying these papers is also easy and cheap, taking only 5 minutes (or less) and just Php 3.00 (as of early 2019).

Confirm Car Registration

Next, you need to make sure that the vehicle is indeed legally registered. You can do this by visiting the nearest LTO branch and going to the Records section. The process would take 10 to 15 minutes, depending on how busy the office is at that time.

Get the Documents Approved

Afterward, go to the Approving Section of LTO so that the documents you bring would be authenticated and okayed. Like confirming the car’s registration, this step would take around 15 minutes give or take.

Get the Circular

Then head back to records for the circular (You’ll need this later on). This step will take 15 to 20 minutes. Once you’re done, bring the documents back to the Approving section before returning again to the Records section where the papers would be returned to you. This process would take 30 to 50 minutes.

Mail the Documents

After getting the papers back, you can proceed with sending them to the LTO branch where the vehicle is registered. With courier services like LBC, you won’t have a problem doing this. Aside from the car’s OC/CR, you also need to send a copy of the Original Confirmation and a photocopy of the Deed of Sale.

Wait for the Papers

Then all you need to do is wait for the LTO branch to send your documents back. The time frame for this process varies, depending on how busy the LTO branch is.

Before You Go

As you can see, transferring ownership of secondhand cars in the Philippines is relatively easy, although you have to be patient about it. Just follow the steps, and you’re good to go. You can even save up of LTO fees if you do things right!
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LTO’s Guide on Transferring Vehicle Ownership

With all the bells, whistles, and attractive financing options that come with a new car, getting one seems the right thing to do. However, you have another option: used cars! There are lots of reasons why you should pick a secondhand car over a brand new one. Not only would it save you money, but it also brings with it many perks, some of which are laid out below.

Depreciated Value

A brand new vehicle’s value begins to depreciate the moment you take it out on the road, and it will continue to do so in subsequent days, weeks, months, and years. With pre-owned cars, however, this deflation has already occurred, allowing you to purchase a premium automobile at a fraction of its original cost.

Cheaper Insurance

Insurance prices for secondhand vehicles tend to be lower than those for new ones. That’s because it’s mainly based on the car’s current value. In short, the lower the value, the lower the insurance premium. Plus, insurance companies also factor in the car’s age, lowering the premium costs further.

No Exaggerated Fees

Say you opt for a brand new ride and you get offered a terrific bargain. You still won’t be able to enjoy it afterward since this great deal would come with hidden and crazy fees more likely than not. These charges include shipping and delivery, destination fees, and something that’s called “dealer preparation.” Thankfully, none of these exaggerated fees are included in almost all secondhand car purchases.

More Affordable Service

Whether you choose a new car or a used one, you’ll have to take it to the shop at some point. For secondhand vehicles owners, services for car maintenance and tune-ups tend to be more affordable and budget-friendly. In stark contrast, brand new automobiles have to be taken to its manufacturer for major and minor repairs, which could strain you financially.

Low Customization Costs

Should you also decide to get a pre-owned car, you won’t have to face any of those expensive dealership add-ons common in brand new car stores. Instead, you can buy and install these extras at your own pace and budget. Doing so would make you feel less harried as well as save you a lot of money.

Go Secondhand

Buying a pre-owned car might not seem as glamorous as going for a new one, but it’s still one of the wisest decisions you’ll ever make. So instead of going for that shiny ride being advertised on your TV, better choose the pre-owned yet still functional vehicle instead.
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Perks of Buying a Pre-Owned Car

A lot of aspiring car owners and motorists tend to look for a pre-owned car instead of a new one because it helps them save money. Still, you need to be careful when buying a secondhand car since it may come with hidden risks or damaged components. To help you out, below is a list of reminders when inspecting a used car before buying it.

Don’t Buy During Nighttime

Never visit a car dealership at night to check out their models. Instead, you should visit during daylights hours. You need to see your preferred ride in good sunlight. Doing so would enable you to check whether or not its panels are aligned or tampered. If it’s uniform, then the vehicle is good to go. Otherwise, it’s on its way out.

Check the Tires

Tires are essential when you’re checking out pre-owned cars. You need to make sure that the vehicle you’re going to pick doesn’t have worn out tires; otherwise, you might end up spending more than you intend to. You also need to inspect whether or not the wheels are correctly aligned, as feathered or cupped tires indicate that it’s not in tip-top condition.

Check the Car’s Fluids

Open the car’s hood and inspect the liquids circulating within, including the transmission fluid, the engine oil, and the brake fluid. If the transmission fluid is reddish and does not smell, then it’s good to go. The same goes for the engine oil, although it’s not always a tell-tale sign that the car you want to buy is in good shape. And a full brake reservoir indicates that the vehicle has functional brakes (you also need to take this with a grain of salt since this is not always a sure sign).

Inspect the Belt

The vehicle’s timing belt is also critical to look out for if you plan to buy secondhand. It needs to be relatively unused before you make a purchase. Otherwise, you might leave yourself vulnerable to car trouble in the future.

Inspect the Coolant

Car antifreeze or coolant not only regulates a car’s engine during extreme temperatures, but it also helps maintain proper fluid levels in a vehicle and help prevent its parts from corroding. So best make sure the car’s coolant container has optimal amounts of the liquid before you proceed with purchasing it.

One Last Tip

Keeping in mind the parts listed above will help keep you from buying a vehicle that’s going to be a problem down the road. But before you buy a car, here’s one bonus bit of advice: Once you find a vehicle that you like and you’re interested in it, call a parts store first. Ask if there’s a lot of parts ordered for the model you’re targeting (i.e., wheel bearings, brake pads, etc.). That way, you’ll know if the car currently in the dealership has recently had its parts replaced.

To shop now for the best used cars in the Philippines click here.

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Checking A Used Car You’d Like To Purchase

Driving is a privilege, not a right. That’s why anyone who wants to drive a new or old car is required by law to obtain a driver’s license. In the Philippines, this mandate is based on Republic Act 4136 and Batas Pambansa Bilang 398, while the license itself if obtained through the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Below are the four types of driver’s licenses LTO issues.

Student’s Permit

This license is bestowed to people who wish to learn how to drive. A person must be at least 16 years old or above to obtain this license, and they must present the duly-accomplished application form, proof of their identity, and their TIN if they already have one. You should take note that while it is technically a driver’s license, you’re legally not allowed to take your vehicle on the road with this license unless you’re accompanied by a person holding a Professional Driver’s License. This license is mainly used in order for aspiring motorists to enroll in driving schools or as a prerequisite to getting a non-professional or professional license.

Non-Professional License

Next, you have the Non-Professional Driver’s License. This license is given to people who have already learned to drive and whose Student’s Permits are at least one month old. You have to be at least 17 years of age to qualify for this license, and it grants you the privilege to operate vehicle for private use. To obtain this license, you must submit all the required documents (i.e., application form, medical certificate, etc.) as well as pass the written and practical examinations.

Professional License

Meanwhile, Professional Driver’s Licenses are issued to people who need to use a vehicle to earn a living. You must be at least 18 years old to get this license, and alongside submitting the required documents and passing the exams, you also need to present an NBI Clearance, a Police or Court Clearance, and a Certificate from Commanding Officer (in case you’re driving as a military personnel).

International License

Lastly, the International License is issued to permanent residents of the Philippines, including students, employees, and government officials, who wishes to drive a car in other countries. It’s granted by the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP) and is valid for one year. Requirements include a valid driver’s license (along with at least two photocopies of it) and two copies of your latest two-by-two-inch pictures with white background.

Get a License Before Driving

Everyone may know how to drive, but only those who have valid driver’s licenses can do so legally in the Philippines and beyond. So before you start your car engine, hit the pedal, and take your car out for a spin, better make sure you’re duly licensed first.
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Types of Driver’s License Issued in the Philippines

Alertness and concentration is essential if you want to take your ride out for a spin. Anything that can affect these two should be avoided at all costs. And the best way you can do that is by making sure you’re in a good state to drive. Below are factors that can determine your fitness.

Good Health

Make sure you are well enough first before hitting the road. One of the main things required to obtain a driver’s license is a medical certificate. How you feel affects how you drive. If you feel sick, it is advisable to refrain from taking your own ride out for a while. Sickness can also negatively impact your concentration and alertness levels, adversely affecting your presence of mind and reaction time. Thus, compromising your safety by driving in a weakened physical state must be avoided at all times.

Good Eyesight

Having clear vision is also essential in order for you to drive safely. Therefore, it is advisable to have your eyes checked to make sure they have acceptable vision range as well as to detect any defects that could affect your driving for the worse. In any case, good eyesight is a prerequisite to obtaining a driver’s license. And if you’re using corrective eye wear, it is recommended that you have your prescription glasses or contact lenses on before you rev up your car engine.

Medicines

Certain medications have side effects that can negatively affect your driving capabilities. These effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea, among others, and they could impair your concentration and alertness while on the road. Thus, you need to be aware of the medicine you need to take shortly before driving. Check the labels for warnings and indicated side effects.

Alcohol

Alcohol impairs your ability to concentrate, adversely affects your reaction time, and gives you a false sense of confidence that could lead to unwanted and unnecessary risks. Drunk driving is also a prime threat to safety (yours and other people’s), and it is punishable by law. So don’t drive while you’re drunk under any circumstances.

Illegal Drugs

Illegal drugs like marijuana, methamphetamine chloride, ecstasy, cocaine, and heroin have unpredictable if not downright dangerous effects to begin with. Not only would these substances impair your ability to drive, but it could also damage your state of mind and physical well-being. Thus, driving under the influence of any of these drugs is a big no-no.
Be Fit Before You Drive
Making safety your prime consideration when driving is an important and responsible decision. By keeping the things listed above in mind, you’ll be able to better ascertain your fitness to drive and ensure your safety while on the road.
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Things to Check to See If You’re Fit to Drive

Driving isn’t a right, it’s a privilege. Thus, you need to be fully prepared before you take your brand new or pre-owned car for a spin. That means a lot of things, like preparing yourself, having the right documents, and what-not. To help you out, listed below are five of the most essential things responsible motorists have.

Driver’s License

Obviously, you shouldn’t drive without a driver’s license, even if you have mad skills behind the wheel. In any case, the law requires anyone wanting to operate an automobile to have a license first, with hefty penalties for those who fail to comply. So if you’ve just bought that shiny albeit secondhand car you’ve been daydreaming about, better get a license before starting its engine.

Car Registration

Next, you need to make sure that your car’s registration is up-to-date. Like your driver’s license, a vehicle’s registration is critical; you shouldn’t take your ride out if it’s unlisted. Therefore, as soon as you have your license (or before, it doesn’t really matter which comes first as long as you get both), bring your auto to the nearest Land Transportation Office (LTO) and get the necessary registration documents.

Spare Tire

As soon as your license and registration are ready, you can start driving. But first, you need to make sure you bring a spare tire. Though you probably won’t use it, it’s still important to bring one on your road trips. That way, you’ll be prepared to replace one of your tires in case something does happen.

Tool Box

And you also need to bring a toolbox with you (complete with all the tools and gadgets you might need, of course). Mishaps and accidents can happen while you’re on the road no matter how careful and responsible you are. By having all the sets of necessary tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to remedy whatever damage your beloved ride incurs along the way.

Fitness

Last but definitely not least, you need to be physically fit before you drive. Most people neglect factoring in their health and well-being when it comes to driving. Don’t be like those guys! Instead, make sure you’re in tip-top condition before hitting the road. This means having good eyesight, having proper presence of mind, and many more.

The Takeaway

Before you can start driving, you need to make sure you have everything you need. By keeping the things listed above near at hand, you’ll be one step closer to hitting the road with your beloved ride.

If you are ready to drive but do not have a ride yet, check out the best second-hand car deals here.

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Things You’ll Need If You Want to Be a Responsible Motorist

Getting a car if you have money and good credit score is one thing, but buying one if you’re broke or in debt is quite another. Still, even if your financial status is currently on the rocks, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a brand new or used car. By following the tips laid out below, you can do just that!

Get a Loan Through the Dealership
Seeking a loan though dealerships is quite common. In fact, a lot of auto dealerships specialize in selling affordable used cars to customers with slightly critical financial status. Most refer to them as “buy here pay here" programs. Basically, the dealer gives you a car loan to help you buy a vehicle with little to no money down. Afterwards, you need to settle your debt with the dealer an interest rate they will set. Before applying for this type of loan, you should know the good chance your application would be approved.

Keep Your Employment Status Steady
You can also increase your chances of buying a car is by improving your current financial standing first. And the best way you can do this is by having a stable employment with a steady income. Many lenders and dealers look at an applicant’s employment status and pay slip when deciding to approve their loan. Most base their decisions on the person’s ability to settle their loans as soon as possible. So if you want to buy a new car and you’re currently unemployed, best get a job first.

Optimize Your Credit Score
Another way you can improve your current financial standing is by optimizing your credit score. Stat by learning what your credit score first to help you know where you stand financially. Then proceed with evaluating your score to know if you can still qualify for a car loan or not, as well as determine the amount of money you can get from the loan. While you’re at it, you should make sure there are no discrepancies in your credit report (notify the authorities immediately in case there are). And you can also do a few things to gradually improve your financial standing, including paying off small balances and getting a credit card.

Improve Your Financial Status First

By following the tips above, you’ll be able to buy your own car despite having little money and a previous undesirable credit score. Still, it would be better if you improve your financial standing first. That way, you can better enjoy your ride.

If you’re ready to purchase a second hand car now, then let’s #GoDrive!

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How to Afford a Car If You Don’t have Enough Money