Building a life together is one of the greatest joys of marriage, but it also comes with unique challenges. For today’s generation of young Filipino couples, the task is even more complex: balancing rising costs of living, ambitious lifestyle goals, and the responsibility of caring for both their children and aging parents.
According to Karlo Biglang-Awa, a Registered Financial Planner (RFP), success in this balancing act doesn’t come from choosing one priority over another—it comes from creating harmony between family, finances, and faith. In an interview with Financial Adviser PH, he explained:
“A marriage is not just about managing money. It’s about living your values as a couple and making financial decisions that reflect those values. When faith, family, and finances work together, life becomes more meaningful.”
The Family Factor
Family remains central to Filipino culture. But with extended households, celebrations, and unexpected responsibilities, expenses can multiply quickly.
“Millennial parents live in a very different reality than baby boomers did,” Biglang-Awa said. “Lifestyle costs are higher, and technology has added new expenses. Planning is necessary to make sure the family’s needs are met without sacrificing long-term stability.”
He encourages couples to discuss family planning openly—how many children they want, when to have them, and how this will affect finances. “Parenthood is a blessing, but it requires preparation. Couples who plan together are less likely to feel overwhelmed by sudden costs,” he added.
Financial Discipline Amid Rising Costs
Biglang-Awa emphasized that young couples must be intentional with money if they want to thrive in today’s fast-changing environment.
Here are some of his key reminders:
Set clear priorities. Buying a car or traveling abroad may need to wait if the family is saving for a house or a child’s education. “It’s about sequencing your goals, not eliminating them,” he explained.
Practice accountability. Keep each other in check through regular money conversations. Transparency builds trust and helps couples make better decisions.
Protect your future. Insurance, health coverage, and retirement planning are non-negotiables. “Too many families ignore these until it’s too late. Preparation is protection,” he said.
Stay flexible. Life events—like a promotion, a salary increase, or even the blessing of another child—can change the financial roadmap. Couples must learn to adjust without blame.
“Financial planning is not about having a perfect formula. It’s about building resilience so that whatever happens, you can face it together,” Biglang-Awa noted.
Faith as a Foundation
While money matters dominate many marriage conversations, Biglang-Awa believes faith plays a vital role in keeping couples grounded.
“Faith provides perspective,” he said. “It reminds us that marriage is bigger than financial goals. It’s about supporting each other and making a positive contribution to society.”
For many couples, faith also serves as a compass when making tough financial decisions. Whether it’s deciding to postpone a purchase, take on additional work, or prioritize savings, values rooted in faith can help guide choices that honor both family and future.
Health and Well-Being
Beyond money, Biglang-Awa reminded couples not to neglect their physical and emotional health. “Health is wealth,” he said. “Financial goals are meaningless if health problems drain your savings or if stress overwhelms your marriage.”
Investing in wellness—through rest, exercise, and preventive care—ensures that couples can enjoy the fruits of their financial discipline.
Final Takeaway
Balancing family, finances, and faith may feel daunting, but Biglang-Awa believes it’s possible—and essential—for young couples.
“The goal isn’t to be perfect,” he told Financial Adviser PH. “It’s to be intentional. When couples align their values with their money decisions, they don’t just build wealth—they build a stronger marriage and a more meaningful life.”
For today’s generation, financial planning is no longer just about surviving. It’s about thriving with purpose, faith, and unity.
