Last April 2011, I had the wonderful opportunity to join the BMW (Beauty, Money, and Wellness) project organized by PsorPhil—a special initiative designed to help psoriasis patients regain their sense of wholeness, confidence, and well-being. Through workshops and lectures focused on beauty, financial literacy, and wellness management, the event aimed to empower participants to live more self-sufficient and fulfilling lives.
The BMW Experience
It was my first time joining BMW, and the event took place at the beautiful Morong Star Beach Resort and Hotel in Morong, Bataan. The whole-day activity was filled with engaging talks, hands-on demos, and relaxing moments by the beach. Participants came from different PsorClubs across the Philippines, including RITM, AHMC, JRRMMC, SLMC, EAMC, SCF, OM, MMC, UERMMC, PGH, USTH, and even PsorPhil members from Facebook.
A Whole Day of Learning, Healing, and Connection
The BMW project focuses on three important things — beauty, money, and wellness — all equally important in helping psoriasis patients regain their confidence and sense of self-worth.
The schedule was packed, but it never felt overwhelming because every activity was done with so much warmth and energy.
Beauty Talk – by Marj Platilla and Dra. Maf
Money Talk – by Edwin De Guzman
Motivational Talk – by John Brian Diamante
Salad Making Demo – by Chef Arjun Binalla
Livelihood Trainings and Demos – included soap making, jewelry making, and a loading business workshop
Meditation Session – led by Kathy Tan
The event also featured raffles, freebies, and lots of laughter. I didn’t win the raffle draw, but the experience itself was more than enough reward. The best part? The registration fee was only ₱325, made possible through the generosity of sponsors, moderators, and PsorPhil officers.
How to Budget Your Money
Budgeting isn’t easy — it’s a skill every mom (and really, every adult!) should learn so we don’t end up living paycheck to paycheck. During the BMW seminar, Edwin De Guzman shared practical and insightful tips on how to manage our finances better. His talk was simple, realistic, and very doable. Here are some of his best pieces of advice:
1. Get the whole picture.
Know exactly where your money goes. Awareness is the first step to taking control of your finances.
2. Record everything.
Write down all your expenses — unexpected, annual, monthly, weekly, and even discretionary.
Unexpected expenses: home repairs, maintenance, and medical bills
Annual or quarterly expenses: homeowners’ dues, license renewals, insurance, and property tax
Monthly expenses: bank loans, credit card payments, rent, utilities, internet, and cable
Weekly expenses: groceries, personal care, child support, and transportation
Discretionary expenses: books, entertainment, dining out, vacations, travel, and membership fees
3. Compute your total monthly expenses.
Compare it with your income to see where you stand financially.
4. If your expenses are higher than your income, make adjustments.
Identify which areas you can cut back on or simplify.
5. Review your budget worksheet regularly.
Check for any errors or overlooked items, make corrections, and re-total.
6. If expenses still exceed income, create new sources of income.
As Edwin reminded us, “Do not wait for opportunities — create opportunities.”
7. Always keep savings for a rainy day.
The ideal amount is equivalent to six months of your net income.
8. Tithe or give back.
Set aside at least 10% of your income to give back to God or support causes that matter to you.
This part of the seminar was one of my favorites because it made me realize that money management isn’t about restriction — it’s about freedom. When you know where your money goes, you feel more confident and secure.
A Quick Look at Morong Star Beach Resort and Hotel
Since it was my first time visiting Morong Star Beach Resort, I was pleasantly surprised at how big and lively the place was. It’s the kind of spot that’s perfect for retreats, company outings, and family getaways.
The resort has both a beach and a swimming pool, plus tons of activities like a zip line, adventure park, fun carts, and even a live band at night. Sports lovers can enjoy basketball, volleyball, billiards, darts, chess, and table tennis. There’s always something to do, whether you’re in the mood to relax or play.
The food and drinks were okay, not exactly gourmet but satisfying enough after a full day of activities. The rooms were spacious, though the air-conditioning struggled to cool the entire space, especially in the heat of summer. Still, for its affordable rates, it’s a great option for those living nearby.
If you’re from Bataan, this resort is a good choice for a quick beach escape. But since I’m from the South, I might pick somewhere closer next time, like Laiya, Batangas.
Morong Star Beach Resort and Hotel
Panibatuhan, Morong, Bataan, Philippines
Tel: +63 634-6216
Fax: +63 635-0307
Email: info@morongstarbeach.com
www.morongstarbeach.com
Overall, my BMW Summer Retreat experience was something I’ll always treasure. It wasn’t just about beauty or money or wellness — it was about reconnecting with myself and realizing that healing goes beyond the skin.
I met amazing people, learned new things, and went home feeling refreshed and inspired. Sometimes, all we need is a change of scenery, a few good talks, and the reminder that we are not alone in this journey.
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