As we step into 2025, managing your finances has never been more important. With the cost of living rising and economic challenges affecting many Filipino families, having the right tools and knowledge to take control of your finances is crucial. Personal finance books are a great way to learn actionable strategies, shift your mindset, and take steps toward financial freedom.
To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 personal finance books every Filipino should read in 2025. These books cover topics ranging from saving and budgeting to investing and building wealth, making them must-reads for anyone looking to master their money.
1. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki
“Rich Dad Poor Dad” remains a timeless classic in personal finance. The book compares the money philosophies of Kiyosaki’s two father figures—his highly educated but financially struggling “poor dad” and his entrepreneurial “rich dad.” It introduces critical concepts like building assets, avoiding liabilities, and creating passive income streams.
For Filipinos, the book’s lessons are especially relevant as many grapple with traditional ideas of financial security, such as relying solely on a stable job. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” challenges you to think differently about money and encourages a proactive approach to achieving financial independence.
2. “Your Money or Your Life” by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez
This book is a life-changing read for anyone looking to improve their relationship with money. Robin and Dominguez teach readers how to track expenses, calculate the “real hourly wage,” and align financial decisions with personal values. It’s a holistic approach that emphasizes living intentionally rather than being caught in the cycle of earning and spending.
For Filipino readers juggling family obligations and financial pressures, this book offers a unique perspective on aligning spending with what truly matters. Its emphasis on value-driven financial decisions makes it a standout guide in today’s fast-paced world.
3. “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey
Dave Ramsey’s no-nonsense guide to achieving financial freedom is more relevant than ever in 2025. With his seven “baby steps,” Ramsey provides a roadmap for paying off debt, building savings, and creating wealth. His “debt snowball” method has become a favorite among readers for its simplicity and effectiveness.
Filipinos, often burdened by credit card debt or personal loans, will find Ramsey’s advice practical and empowering. By following his steps, you can create a solid financial foundation that will serve you for years to come.
4. “Ipon Diary” by Chinkee Tan
Chinkee Tan, a beloved Filipino author and financial coach, delivers practical and relatable advice in “Ipon Diary.” Using humorous anecdotes and easy-to-follow tips, Tan shows readers how to save money, budget effectively, and avoid debt traps.
What makes “Ipon Diary” particularly valuable is its cultural relevance. Tan addresses uniquely Filipino financial challenges, such as managing “utang” (debt) and supporting extended family. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to kickstart their savings journey in 2025.
5. “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko
This book shatters the myth that millionaires live lavish lifestyles. Stanley and Danko reveal that many wealthy individuals achieve financial independence through frugality, discipline, and smart financial choices. The book emphasizes living below your means and focusing on long-term wealth-building strategies.
For Filipinos aspiring to build wealth, “The Millionaire Next Door” offers practical lessons on how to live modestly while growing your financial assets. It’s a great resource for those looking to prioritize financial stability over superficial status.
6. “Secrets of the Millionaire Mind” by T. Harv Eker
Eker focuses on the psychological barriers that prevent people from achieving financial success. He introduces the concept of a “money blueprint” and explains how deeply ingrained beliefs about money can shape financial outcomes. By reprogramming your mindset, you can adopt habits that lead to lasting wealth.
Filipinos often face societal pressures around spending and saving, making this book particularly impactful. Eker’s insights can help you overcome limiting beliefs and take charge of your financial future.
7. “Pera na Hindi Bitin” by Eduardo Roberto Jr.
“Pera na Hindi Bitin” is a straightforward guide for Filipinos struggling to make ends meet. Roberto offers practical advice on budgeting, saving, and avoiding common financial pitfalls. Written in an engaging style, the book resonates with readers of all ages.
The tips provided in this book are tailored to the Filipino financial landscape, making it an essential read for anyone looking to stretch their peso and achieve financial stability in 2025.
8. “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill
This timeless classic offers universal principles for achieving success. Hill shares insights gathered from interviews with some of the most successful individuals of his time, focusing on goal-setting, persistence, and visualization.
For Filipinos, “Think and Grow Rich” serves as a motivational guide to turning dreams into reality. Whether you’re saving for a home, starting a business, or planning your financial future, this book provides a blueprint for success.
9. “The Barefoot Investor” by Scott Pape
Scott Pape’s “The Barefoot Investor” simplifies personal finance into a series of easy steps. From setting up a solid budgeting system to creating financial safety nets, this book provides actionable advice for readers at any stage of their financial journey.
Filipinos looking for a beginner-friendly guide to managing money in 2025 will find Pape’s advice practical and relatable. His focus on building financial resilience makes this book a valuable addition to your reading list.
10. “Why ‘You’ Need to Start Saving Now” by Fitz Villafuerte
Written by Filipino financial expert Fitz Villafuerte, this book emphasizes the importance of starting your savings journey as early as possible. Villafuerte shares actionable tips on automating savings, budgeting effectively, and investing wisely.
In 2025, where financial literacy is more critical than ever, this book offers relatable insights tailored to the Filipino audience. It’s an excellent resource for those looking to build their financial knowledge and secure a brighter future.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, financial literacy remains one of the most powerful tools for achieving financial independence. These personal finance books provide the knowledge and inspiration needed to take control of your money, whether you’re paying off debt, saving for the future, or investing in long-term growth.
Choose a book from this list, apply its lessons, and start your journey to financial freedom today.
