Money Lessons from Dad: 4 Timeless Financial Habits That Still Matter Today

June is Father’s Month: A Tribute to the Financial Wisdom Passed Down Through Generations

Our fathers are more than just family protectors and providers, they’re often our first financial role models. While moms typically run the day-to-day household budgeting, many of us grew up watching our dads make big-picture financial decisions: saving for the future, investing wisely, and spending mindfully.

This Father’s Month, we sat down with young professionals who reflected on the most impactful money lessons they learned from their dads—timeless insights that continue to guide their financial journeys today. Here are four valuable habits they swear by, and how you can put them into practice.

1. Save Consistently, No Matter the Amount

For Justin, a marketing executive in his mid-30s, the most enduring lesson from his father was this: “Always pay yourself first.” His dad taught him the importance of setting aside a portion of every paycheck, whether big or small, before covering any other expenses.

Justin took this advice to heart. To this day, he prioritizes his savings monthly, treating it as a non-negotiable expense. He trusts Metrobank for his savings journey, just as his father did. Seeing how the bank helped safeguard his family’s finances over the years, he now considers it a secure partner for growing his own.

Thinking of building your own savings habit? Now’s a great time to start. With Metrobank’s Triple Bonus Promo (running until June 30, 2025), new account holders can enjoy:

• A PHP1,500 cash gift for maintaining at least PHP50,000 for six months
• Free AXA accident insurance coverage worth PHP1 million
• Up to 4x monthly InstaPay fee rebates when maintaining PHP50,000 for 12 months

2. Live Within Your Means, and Then Some

In a world of instant checkouts and monthly online sales, it’s easy to overspend. But Ico, an Omnichannel Experience professional and father of two, learned early on from his dad the value of intentional spending. It's a lesson he's now passing down to his own children.

For Mon, a graphic designer raised by an OFW father, frugality was not just a practice, it was a mindset. His father, a seaman, would always say: “Every peso counts.” That ethos taught Mon to prioritize needs over wants, hunt for the best deals, and keep a close eye on where his money goes.

Modern tools can make that easier. With the Metrobank Online app and site, you can track your spending, monitor transactions, and stay on top of your budget, all in one place.

Looking to treat Dad this month? Metrobank Credit Cards offer exclusive dining and shopping perks perfect for Father’s Day. Enjoy discounts at:

• Dean & DeLuca, The Nostalgia Bar & Lounge, and more
• Up to 50% off eyewear at Executive Optical
• Up to 10% off at Marks & Spencer for that wardrobe refresh

3. Grow Your Wealth Through Smart Diversification

“Don’t rely on just one income stream”, a principle that stuck with Bea, a brand marketing officer, thanks to her dad. He encouraged her to explore investments early in life, and it paid off.

Bea now diversifies her earnings through Metrobank’s Unit Investment Trust Funds (UITFs) and online time deposit accounts. These products not only align with her risk tolerance but are also professionally managed and accessible. With Metrobank’s online platform, investing has never been easier, or more flexible.

UITFs start at just PHP10,000, offering potential for both capital appreciation and income

Metrobank Online Time Deposits grow savings at rates of up to 4.5% per annum, depending on your chosen term

For Bea, it’s all about putting money to work, and watching it grow.

4. Turn Everyday Wisdom into Long-Term Financial Success

Financial well-being isn’t something that happens overnight, it’s built over time, often starting with small, consistent steps passed down through generations.

Even our dads are still learning and adapting to new ways to manage money. And now, we can take that legacy even further. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep in your financial journey, Metrobank’s Earnest platform (earnest.metrobank.com.ph) offers bite-sized, easy-to-understand financial lessons that can help deepen your knowledge and decision-making skills.

Celebrate Dad’s Legacy by Strengthening Your Own Financial Foundation

This June, honor your father’s lessons by building a smarter, stronger financial future, for yourself and your family. Whether it’s saving regularly, spending wisely, or investing strategically, the values our fathers taught us remain more relevant than ever.

Let Metrobank help you take those lessons further. Visit your nearest branch or explore more online at www.metrobank.com.ph.