Filipinos are keeping a hopeful outlook on their financial futures despite heavy pressure from inflation and rising living costs. According to the Q2 2026 Consumer Pulse Study by TransUnion, nearly three-quarters of respondents expect their household incomes and overall finances to improve over the next year. This optimism stands firm even though actual household incomes mostly remained flat this quarter, with only 38 percent reporting an earnings boost over the past three months.
However, high costs are forcing families to be much more deliberate with their money. Inflation remains the leading financial worry for 84 percent of consumers, especially as nearly half expect they might struggle to fully pay at least one upcoming bill or loan. In response, more than half of those surveyed have cut back on discretionary spending like dining out and travel. Instead, Filipinos are focusing on building financial safety nets, with about half increasing their emergency savings.
To manage day-to-day cash flow under these economic pressures, consumers are relying more heavily on credit. The study shows that 58 percent of Filipinos view access to loans and credit products as vital to achieving their financial goals. Appetite for credit remains strong, particularly for personal loans and credit cards, with nearly half of consumers planning to apply for new credit or refinance existing debt in the coming year.
Despite this strong interest, accessing credit remains a challenge for many. The survey revealed that 60 percent of consumers who intended to apply for credit ultimately abandoned their plans, primarily because borrowing costs were too high. Financial experts note that while Filipinos are demonstrating growing financial maturity by actively managing their budgets, lenders need to address these cost and eligibility barriers to ensure credit remains inclusive and helpful during uncertain economic times.
