Despite being more financially aware and starting to save earlier than previous generations, many Filipino Gen Zs doubt if they can ever retire comfortably. The rising cost of living, unstable income sources, and a culture of instant gratification are making it harder for this generation to plan long term.

For many, the idea of retiring at 60 — or even 65 — seems unrealistic. That’s why side hustles have become part of the new normal. They’re no longer just “extra income” — they’re essential to survive and, hopefully, to thrive.

Key Takeaways:

• Many Gen Z Filipinos believe they’ll need to keep working, even past retirement age.
• A growing number have side hustles — and plan to keep them long-term.
• The uncertainty of the future drives many to hustle harder, but what they need most is financial stewardship.

Who Is Gen Z in the Philippines?

Generation Z includes those born between 1997 and 2012 — today’s teens and young adults, aged 13 to 28. They’re the most digital-savvy generation in history. They grew up with the internet, social media, and e-wallets.

Many of them are:

• Freelancers
• Online sellers
• Creators and influencers
• Working students or first-time earners

They are eager to learn and grow, but also carrying anxiety about their financial future — often juggling multiple responsibilities and unsure how to plan for the long term.

Why Side Hustles Matter

Let’s be honest: for most Gen Zs, isang trabaho hindi sapat. Side hustles help:

• Pay tuition or bills
• Support their family
• Fund small pleasures (coffee, gadgets, travel)
• Start savings or invest (if possible)

Some popular side hustles in the Philippines include:

• Online selling (Shopee, TikTok, IG)
• Freelance work (graphic design, writing, video editing)
• Content creation
• Tutoring
• Food and courier deliveries
• Direct selling and affiliate marketing

While side hustles may provide temporary relief, the bigger question remains:

Are we just hustling, or are we stewarding wisely?

From Hustling to Stewarding

Earning more is helpful — but if you don’t manage it well, it won’t go far.
True financial breakthrough isn’t just about income. It’s about faithful stewardship.

Luke 16:10 – “Whoever is faithful with little will be faithful with much.”

Biblical stewardship reminds us that money is not ours — it’s entrusted to us by God. We are called to manage it:

• With wisdom
• With purpose
• With discipline
• With generosity

Practical Steps for Filipino Gen Zs

1. Track Your Spending

Use simple tools — a notebook, a spreadsheet, or budgeting apps.

“You can’t steward what you don’t monitor.”

2. Live Below Your Means

Learn to say no to lifestyle pressures.
Proverbs 21:20 – “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.”

3. Save Consistently, No Matter How Small

Start with whatever you can. The goal is habit, not amount.

4. Avoid Bad Debt

Credit cards and BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) may look attractive, but they can trap you if you’re not disciplined.

5. Plan for the Long-Term

Don’t just save for the next iPhone — save for your future family, business, or retirement.

6. Honor God Through Giving

Even with little, you can tithe and give — it forms your heart and builds trust in God’s provision.
2 Corinthians 9:7 – “God loves a cheerful giver.”

Stewardship Over Survival

Dear Gen Z, I admire your hustle. You’re resourceful, talented, and resilient.
But I want to challenge you — don’t just work hard. Be wise.

Hustling may help you survive today. But stewardship will help you build a better tomorrow.

Your future is not just shaped by how much you earn. It’s shaped by how faithfully you handle what you have — big or small. Time is on your side. Use it well.

Surround yourself with mentors. Read the Bible and get connected to a church community. Learn financial principles. And remember:

You are not alone — God is your Provider. Your role is to be a faithful steward.