Percentage of Philippines' Pesos Retained within Cebu Region

In the vibrant city of Cebu, every peso spent at a local business has a significant impact on the local economy. Studies worldwide show that a larger portion of a peso stays within the Cebu economy when spent at a Cebu-based business, compared to a Manila-based or international chain.

When you choose to shop, dine, or use services from a Cebuano-owned enterprise, around 50 to 70 centavos of every peso stays in the local economy. This local spending creates a "multiplier effect," as every peso gets spent and re-spent in Cebu, supporting more families and generating more jobs. In contrast, only around 15 to 20 centavos of every peso spent at a Manila-based or international chain stays in Cebu.

This ripple effect of local spending can have a substantial impact on Cebu. For example, if every Cebuano shifts 10 percent more of their purchases locally, the effect would be massive. Every peso spent locally creates a ripple effect of P3-P7 of opportunity for Cebu.

The money that stays in the local economy from a Cebu-based business is used for wages, rent, payments to local suppliers, and reinvestment by local owners. This support helps a child go to school, a family pay their mortgage, and a local entrepreneur reinvest in Cebu.

While national chains provide jobs and introduce global standards, choosing to do business with a Cebuano-owned enterprise keeps the peso in Cebu. More money circulating in Cebu from local spending can strengthen small businesses and create a more resilient economy. Consciously directing more spending to homegrown businesses can lead to a vibrant Cebu economy.

When you're shopping or dining out, remember to ask yourself: Where will my peso go? Will it help build Cebu's future or someone else's? By supporting local businesses such as neighborhood carinderias, local tailors, or family-run bakeries, you're not just making a purchase—you're investing in Cebu's future.

Unfortunately, there are no specific studies publicly available that detail which local businesses in Cebu have been supported by customers in recent years. However, the impact of local spending is undeniable. By choosing to support local businesses, you're helping to create a stronger, more resilient Cebu economy.

In conclusion, every peso spent locally has the power to create a ripple effect of opportunities for Cebu. So, the next time you're out shopping or dining, consider supporting a Cebuano-owned enterprise—you could be helping to build Cebu's future.