We are ushering in the "ber" months in the Philippines even as we celebrate
Eid’l Adha
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/926395/breaking-sept-1-2017-declared-a-holiday-in-observance-of-eidl-adha
I have seen some stores selling Christmas decors this early; here's what you and I have to watch out for:
1. scammers will be more active. "teh,kuya, paki balik yung load...."
2. and spammers "do you have a credit card?"
3. traffic will get more intense (hot heads will prevail), especially near shopping centers. If you can help it, avoid Friday, payday, flash floods (to come in October, November, maybe onto December)
4. DO NOT SIGN your ATM cards. Pioneer Center asked me to sign mine! Notice some department stores no longer ask you to enter your PIN, to make it easier for you to spend. Leave some for after Christmas.
5. If you purchase gift certificates, make sure there is no expiration. Happened to me last year. I have not seen any law passed prohibiting expiration.
6. Compare prices not only year on year but store to store. Last year cherries were 800 pesos a kilo, now it's 1,200 per at Farmer's Market. Ube I got at 80 pesos a kilo from a stall in deepest labyrinth of Farmer's, while up front it's P120.
7. Buy safe (lead free), age appropriate toys for your kids, babies, and loved ones.
Enjoy simple pleasures with family most of all, the heart and core of Philippine society, spread peace and love.
