Mother’s Day is different when you want to enjoy but still manage your money. Moneymaxxing can help you celebrate more without worrying about the aftermath by making every peso work smarter. You may enjoy the day without worrying about it later thanks to Maya, the country’s #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform in the Philippines.

 

If you want it to feel special, don’t start with the price

 

It’s easy to default to one big, expensive gift, but more often than not, it’s the experience that people remember. A planned lunch, a small but thoughtful present, or even just uninterrupted time together can feel more personal than something rushed or ever-the-top. When you shift the focus this way, your spending starts to feel more intentional, not just bigger.

 

If you’re going to spend anyway, make it work for you

 

I know... it is already five months into 2026, and yes, this kind of planner setup usually happens at the start of the year. But life had other plans for me. Between errands, responsibilities, and everyday mom life, I just couldn’t sit down and create my planner the way I wanted to. And to be honest, part of the delay was also me. I kept putting it off because I wanted everything to be perfectly arranged. You know that feeling when you have so many ideas, but you don’t know where to start? That was me for months. Then one day, while scrolling through Instagram, I saw Dar’s journal posts, and somehow, it gave me that little push I needed. It reminded me that starting imperfectly is still better than not starting at all. So here it is, my 2026 planner and journal. Finally.

 

My Planner Sections

I kept my setup simple but meaningful, focusing on what truly matters in my daily life.

 

Things are getting busy and exciting in the southern area of Davao City. More than the malls and the usual hustle and bustle of the city, exciting events are happening every weekend in the south.

Flea Markets and Pop Ups

In search of new things to try and spaces to explore beyond the air-conditioned mall Davaoenos have turned "flea markets" into a weekend destination.

In the past three years, we have seen the rise in popularity of what is now generally called “flea markets.” Technically, these are pop-up markets and bazaars in various locations around the city. During the weekend leading up to Araw ng Dabaw, at least 13 flea markets were held all over the city. And on any ordinary weekend, at least one is happening in the city.

More than being marketplaces, these pop-up markets become all-in-one events. Local MSMEs are able to introduce themselves to the public and market their products and services. And in some instances, experiment with new products and flavors. Students, young professionals, and families visit these markets to shop, dine, and try new experiences. Some markets conduct workshops and host community events. Hobby groups such as book clubs, journaling circles, and crochet clubs also meet and conduct activities at these pop-up markets.

Two of the most popular and in-demand venues are Three Yards and Tio Noning’s, both located in the Juan Subdivision and Tulip Drive neighborhood. Away from the usual downtown event venues and closer to the southern residential areas.

And further down south, more venues are starting to host pop-up markets and other community events.

Good Matcha and Good Food

Summer doesn’t always come with time off. For many, it looks like regular workdays, back-to-back tasks, and squeezing in mini breaks where you can. But even without a getaway, there are still many other ways to feel the season.

 

If your days are spent working through the heat, those in-between moments start to matter more: a quick pause, something cold to recharge, or a meal you don’t have to think too much about. It’s not about taking time off, but finding small pockets of ease within the day.