Bricks and bonds beyond borders
Beyond providing for their families, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are also nation builders whose remittances are helping fuel domestic consumption, drive capital market activity, and boost the real estate sector.
According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, OFWs remitted a record high $34.49 billion in 2024, accounting for 8.3 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). These remittances are helping fund new opportunities, businesses, and to a certain extent, dream homes.
And now, a powerful tool has been added to their arsenal: retail treasury bonds (RTBs)—specifically the RTB Tranche 31, offered by the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr).
Building wealth
Earlier this week, the Philippine government, through BTr, has opened subscriptions for RTB 31–a five-year investment with a fixed gross interest rate of 6 percent per annum.
Back in the day, Filipinos would need a huge amount of money to participate in issuances like this. They need to line up, pay in cold cash in exchange for bond placements, collect coupon payments on a quarterly basis, and go back to the Treasury Office to claim their principal after the bond matures.
But those are things of the past.
Today, Filipinos can invest conveniently in RTB31 for as little as P5,000 (and in multiples of P5,000 thereafter), wherever in the world they may be. RTB31 gives us a low risk, convenient, and guaranteed investment option, especially for OFWs who want passive income, can’t regularly monitor volatile assets like stocks, and want to start preparing for real estate purchase.
RTBs are proof that building wealth doesn’t always require bricks and concrete because bonds can be just as solid, especially if you are looking for a sturdy foundation to start your homebuying journey.
Real estate remains a favorite
Many OFWs still prefer physical investments like condominiums and house-and-lot units. A World Bank report said that an estimated 40 to 60 percent of OFW remittances funnel directly or indirectly into the real estate sector, particularly those targeting low- to mid-range housing developments in areas like Metro Manila, Cavite, Batangas and Laguna.
Despite the appeal of real estate, many OFWs now understand the value of investment diversification. Property ownership comes with challenges–maintenance, market risk, legal processes, and overconcentration.
There are now options like stocks, real estate investment trusts (REITs), peso- and dollar-denominated mutual funds and UITFs, franchises and small businesses, and now, RTBs. RTB 31, in particular, is ideal for first-time investors and seasoned ones alike, especially when they get to secure it within the primary offer period.
But no matter how safe and conservative an investment instrument may be, it is still prudent to factor in risks into our decision-making. Here are a few things to remember.
Investing is a long-term financial commitment
Investing isn’t a quick win game. Whether you’re buying real estate or stocks, it requires patience, discipline, and consistency. It may take years before your portfolio grows significantly through price appreciation (value increase of shares) and dividends (earnings shared by the company).
The same long-term approach applies to real estate, but with an even higher upfront cost. Acquiring property isn’t just about buying a house—it comes with ongoing financial responsibilities which is why you also need liquidity or cash on hand to manage it.
But here’s the good news: real estate has stood the test of time. It’s still one of the most reliable investments, thanks to a growing population (which drives demand) and limited land supply (which tightens availability). That’s a classic formula for value appreciation over time.
Fraud and scams
OFWs are especially vulnerable to fraud because of the physical distance. It’s harder to personally verify who you’re dealing with or to inspect the property or business being offered. Sadly, some individuals pretend to be licensed agents or developers, when in fact they’re not authorized to transact.
To protect your hard-earned money, work only with licensed professionals’; verify their affiliation with legitimate developers or firms; and triple-check all documents before signing or sending money. If you’re not 100 percent sure, walk away. No deal is worth the risk of losing everything.
Remote property management
Managing property or a small business while you’re abroad sounds doable until problems start piling up.
Many OFWs rely on family members or friends to oversee their investments here in the Philippines, but without proper systems and a sense of ownership, things can quickly go wrong. Unless you have a trusted, professional property manager, these issues can turn your dream investment into a stressful liability.
Overexposure
There’s nothing wrong with investing in property. It’s a great way to build long-term wealth. But the problem arises when real estate becomes your only investment. This means all your capital is locked in one asset class, and worse, it may not even generate income. If it’s just sitting there, it’s costing you money.
Investing smarter
Just think F-I-R-S-T M-E-T-R-O.
F – Financial goals first
Set clear financial goals, whether it’s for homeownership, income generation, retirement, or legacy building. Knowing your “why” is the first step toward a focused investment journey.
I – Invest in a diversified portfolio
Avoid putting all your money into just one asset class. Real estate is solid, but mix in bonds, funds, and equities to ensure you have ample liquidity. Spread out your risk so you can grow your wealth more steadily.
R – Reliable platforms only
Choose secure and accessible investments through trusted platforms like RTB 31 via FirstMetroSec. Accountholders can invest conveniently in less than one minute for as low as P5,000.
S – Seek government support
Maximize available government tools like Pag-IBIG housing loans, OWWA reintegration programs, and livelihood support.
T – Tech is your bestfriend
Use digital tools to your advantage. Do virtual tours, invest online, monitor your portfolio, and manage documents electronically from anywhere in the world.
Not yet a FirstMetroSec accountholder? Open an account now by downloading the ‘FirstMetroSec GO’ mobile app. When you get asked ‘How did you learn about us?’ Tap ‘Seminar/ Event’ and type in ‘Inquirer Property’.
M – Manage property smartly
If you’re investing in real estate, assign a trustworthy manager or professional property service to handle tenants, repairs, and taxes. Don’t leave it to chance—or just to relatives.
E – Educate yourself continuously
Financial literacy is a lifelong commitment. Read, ask, attend webinars, and follow reliable financial educators and institutions. Empowerment starts with understanding. For world-class, customized, and gamified financial and investment literacy programs, briefings, or market updates for your company, school or organization, email marketeducation@firstmetrosec.com.ph
T – Think long term
Wealth isn’t built overnight. Be consistent, patient, and intentional especially when using strategies like peso cost averaging or real estate investing.
R – Respect the risks
Every investment carries risk. Be mindful of scams, economic changes, interest rate hikes, and even your own biases. Do due diligence every step of the way.
O – Own your tax responsibility
Even if your remittances are tax-exempt, income from rent, dividends, or capital gains in the Philippines is still taxable. Know the laws, and when in doubt—consult a tax expert.
Why choose when you can have both
OFWs have long been builders—of dreams, homes, and legacies. But now, investing doesn’t have to start with millions or wait until you fly home.
Because whether it’s building your real estate dreams brick-by-brick across borders or helping the Philippines’ nation-building efforts while investing through bonds, your sacrifice deserves to grow.
