Virgilio L. Canete (Jack), AFP®, is a resilient financial professional whose journey from humble beginnings to becoming an Overseas Filipino Worker and Associate Financial Planner reflects a profound commitment to financial literacy and security. His Associate Financial Planner (AFP®) designation, earned while working toward his RFP and CTEP registrations, validates his expertise in guiding individuals and families toward sound financial planning, investment management, and wealth building. Growing up as the eldest of seven siblings in a family where money was rarely discussed because there was none, he learned early the value of hard work and education. A pivotal turning point came when, as a Commercial Manager for one of Saudi Arabia’s largest real estate developers, he was laid off and faced six months of unemployment with little to no emergency fund—an experience that taught him that even a stable income does not guarantee financial security.
Canete’s approach to budgeting and financial planning is meticulous and disciplined, recording every expense and tracking each one carefully to stay aligned with the annual financial plan he sets for himself. Guided by the powerful advice that “your salary is a seed, and it is your responsibility to plant some of it—not consume it all,” he now considers himself both a saver and an investor. Through his AFP® credential and his work as an OFW, civil engineer, environmental planner, and MBA holder, he exemplifies the qualities of a disciplined, resilient, and client-centered financial professional dedicated to empowering others to build lasting financial security and independence.
AFP® Program and Financial Growth
What motivated you to join the AFP program, and how did it influence your approach to financial planning?
“When I joined IMG in 2019, I opened the opportunity for me to learn more about money. The IMG program, which includes AFP as part of its training, has greatly expanded my knowledge and understanding of personal finance—giving me the foundation to make better financial decisions.”
How has becoming an AFP® helped you make better investment and wealth-building decisions?
“Becoming an AFP has helped me develop a deeper understanding of money management and personal finance. It gave me the framework to evaluate financial decisions more critically—from assessing risk and reward to ensuring that every commitment is backed by a solid financial foundation. As a result, I am now more deliberate and confident in my investment and wealth-building decisions.”
What is the most valuable lesson you learned from the AFP program, and how have you applied it in your own financial journey?
“The most valuable lesson I learned from the AFP program is the importance of budgeting, saving, and investing. I have applied this in my own financial journey by being intentional with every peso I earn—ensuring that a portion is always allocated for savings and investments before spending on anything else. This discipline has given me clarity and control over my finances, and has helped me work steadily toward my goals of funding my children’s education and securing my retirement. In addition, I have built a solid financial foundation, ensuring that I am prepared for all aspects of financial circumstances.”