Lifestyles of the rich –and stingy

AMY PEREZ

Celebs lead such charmed lives, you may be surprised to know that most of them have a  kuripot streak. Just like lesser mortals, their gross spending doesn’t always match their net income.

Take, for instance, this young TV host/actress who demands to split the bill every time she dines out with friends—as in, she makes sure everyone pays the exact same amount. Or, the wife of a seasoned actor who buys fake branded shirts for her hubby’s TV appearances. There’s also this former matinee idol who relies on ex-deals for almost everything—from hotel accommodations to groceries.

There’s nothing wrong with being frugal. After all, it’s not how much you earn but how much you save. This is especially true in the unpredictable world of show biz, where you can be a millionaire today and a pauper tomorrow. The trappings of success can indeed be a trap. It reminds me of a poster which says: “Money talks! All mine says is goodbye!”

Work hard, spend moderately, live easy!

Read on and see how some celebs scrimp. Why not do the same—so you can stop asking yourself after each payday,  “Where did my money go?”

Pops Fernandez

Pops Fernandez

I must say that I always avoid splurging unnecessarily. I don’t think the term for me is kuripot. I’d rather say I’m practical. It’s hard-earned money; I want to spend it wisely.

Ogie Alcasid

I  am kuripot only with myself. I like showering my loved ones with gifts that they will enjoy. My wife spoils me with nice things. Spending beyond our means would not be wise because our families need financial security. In the end, we realize that our money isn’t really ours but was lent to us as a blessing for us to be a blessing to others.

Amy Perez

I don’t go for brand names when it comes to the toys/gadgets and clothes of my kids. They don’t mind wearing local brands as long as they’re comfortable. The important thing about spending wisely is you get to save for your children’s future. As a mother, my priorities have changed. Before I buy something, I ask myself if I really need it. Anak muna bago sarili.

Christine Bersola-Babao

I scrimp when it comes to things I personally desire. Good thing I have a sweet hubby, who  buys those things for me on special occasions. If it’s a pressing need, then I buy. Or, if it marks an important milestone, I buy something special with a special price tag. Most of the time, I wait until the item goes on sale. Spending wisely is very important because many people don’t have jobs. Also, I prioritize  my scholars, and family members who need help for their medical needs. They are more important to me than material wealth. That’s not spending; that’s saving—saving lives.

Rita Avila

I always buy what I really need. Occasionally, I buy what I want. I compare prices when I go to the grocery. I buy what I think is reasonably priced, quality-wise. In restaurants, I don’t mind paying more if the food is great. I eat well and exercise to avoid getting sick so I don’t have to spend on medication. As for expensive bags, I think a hundred times until my husband buys it for me.

Kim Atienza

I get to scrimp on hair care because I always wear a hat. I don’t need fancy gels and waxes. I don’t even need a brush. Mas magulo ang buhok ko, mas gusto ko. But I never scrimp where my family is concerned. I want my wife Felicia and our kids to have the best that life has to offer. Spending wisely means the biggest allocations are for important things, such as a beautiful home and quality education. After money is set aside for these, then you can spend on luxury.

OGIE Alcasid is “kuripot” only when it comes to himself.