There are workshops that discuss numbers. There are workshops that teach you how to save. And then there are workshops like the Financial Education session at the Lifebank Center—workshops that gently nudge a participant from anxiety into realizing, “Kaya ko gali mag-budget kag mag-plano para sa future.” (I can actually budget and plan for the future.)

Held on November 27, 2025, at Function Room 1, Lifebank Center in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo, the event wasn’t just about ledgers and computations. It was a gathering designed to help participants understand their finances, build smarter habits, and turn everyday challenges into opportunities.

Guiding the Journey

The session was led by two dynamic facilitators who brought energy and clarity to the room: Kim Blue Samontanes, Program Associate of the Social & Sustainable Development Department, and Allen Verbal, Program Associate of the Social & Sustainable Development Department at Lifebank Foundation.

Instead of overwhelming attendees with technical jargon, they used practical insights, relatable examples, and a touch of signature SEA Inc. wisdom. The atmosphere wasn’t stiff or academic; it was a space for honest conversations about the realities of daily spending.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

As the session unfolded, the discussion moved to the elephant in the room: the dreaded “kulang ang budget” (the budget is lacking) moments.

Through interactive discussions, Kim and Allen guided attendees in transforming these moments of scarcity into confident financial decisions. The workshop emphasized that financial wellness isn’t just about having more money—it’s about having the right mindset. It’s about making sure that every hard-earned peso is directed towards what truly matters: security, growth, and family.

Empowering the Community

The takeaways were clear. Participants left not just with tips on how to save, but with a renewed sense of control over their financial destiny. The fear of the unknown was replaced by a plan for the future.

SEA Inc. continues to empower communities—one smart peso at a time.

“Money matters—and the workshop made sure everyone got the memo.”