“I was born and raised in the Philippines as the middle of three boys, and according to my mom, always the most mischievous (I would frame it as unrestrained curiosity, but maybe I’m biased). I came to the U.S. when I was 16 to live with my aunt in Texas. That was about 10 years ago.

My little brother is still outside Manila with our mom. My parents do well back home, but I’ve got a good job at an accounting firm here and every payday, I make sure to send money back for my family. Consider it penance for all the chaos I caused as a kid. Technically, I send it to my brother (he’s 18 now and better with tech), but it’s mostly for my mom. She’s on a few medications and it makes me feel better knowing she can get the healthcare she needs. Plus, my parents are saving up to buy a new house and I’m happy I can be a part of that. Every few weeks I try to add a little more for my brother, mostly as appreciation for him always helping the family when I can’t be there.

In the past I’ve used other services and apps, but a few years back I found Pangea. It’s often the best exchange rates and, honestly, it’s just easier and faster. Now it doesn’t feel like a hassle to send money for my cousin’s birthday or my friend’s wedding, it literally takes a minute. And every accountant knows: time is money.”

This story is based on real user experiences, but not a particular user’s life story.