QC Councilor Kate Coseteng Advancing Women’s Rights and Empowerment in the Philippines

Tweet

Quezon City Councilor Kate Galang-Coseteng pushes Kababaihan Partylist advocacy for the rights and welfare of Filipino women.

This 2025 election, first nominee Councilor Kate Coseteng aims Kababaihan Partylist to secure a seat in the House of Representatives with its goal to represent strong and credible advocate for the rights and welfare of Filipino women. Running under the banner “Kakampi ng Kababaihan”, the partylist aims to bring critical women’s issues to the forefront of national policy.

Councilor Kate Coseteng is a three-term Quezon City Councilor and the current Minority Floor Leader. Her experience in local governance spans over a decade, with a previous stint as a three- term councilor in Valenzuela City from 2004 to 2013. Her deep understanding of legislative work is evident in her authorship of several key ordinances.

With a career and projects in public service and advocacy, Coseteng aims to champion women's economic empowerment and push for legal reforms that address the unique challenges faced by Filipino women these days.​

Championing Women’s Rights

Running under the number #128, this sectoral group brings forward legislative solutions that address the everyday challenges faced by women, mothers, and members of marginalized communities including #LGBTQIA+ individuals.

The Kababaihan Partylist focus on their platforms to present concrete solutions to the real-life struggles of Filipino women and the LGBTQIA+ sector.

Championing Women's Economic Empowerment

• Microfinance Law for Women

Recognizing the systemic barriers that hinder women's financial independence, Coseteng proposes a Micro-Finance Support in Business for Women program.

"We will be giving business loans to women so they can empower themselves financially, and not be forced to stay with abusive life partners for survival," Coseteng shared to the bloggers during the Kababaihan Partylist Meet and Greet held April 14, 2025.

This initiative seeks to provide accessible loans ranging from ₱25,000 to ₱500,000, tailored for small to medium enterprises led by women. By simplifying the loan process and offering financial literacy training, the program aims to empower women to pursue entrepreneurship without the intimidation of complex bureaucratic procedures.​

Advocacy for a Fair and Accessible Divorce Law

• Proposed Divorce Bill

Coseteng believes that legalizing divorce is a crucial step in protecting those trapped in abusive marriages. Her position challenges the traditional view of marriage in the Philippines, where divorce remains illegal. Coseteng’s advocacy stems from a deep understanding of the plight of women who suffer silently within their homes, often with no legal recourse.

"Annulment in the Philippines is extremely expensive, making it impossible for many women to leave unhappy or unsafe marriages. Divorce should be fair, accessible, and capable of providing financial security for women and their children," Coseteng states. ​

Coseteng advocates for a revised divorce bill that maintains clear grounds—such as domestic violence, abandonment, infidelity, and drug abuse—while ensuring the process is accessible and not financially prohibitive. This approach seeks to protect the sanctity of marriage while providing a viable escape for those in irreparable and harmful relationships.

​- Night Care Center and Tahanan ng Kababaihan

Kababaihan Partylist also wants to institutionalize a center that will act as nighttime refuge for single women working late hours, ensuring their kids and families safety and security.

- LGBTQIA + Safe Space

Kababaihan Partylist pushes to further help in LGBTQIA+ causes, a new more general form of gender equality bill.

Not just for women, Kababaihan Partylist also acknowledges the discrimination and challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Providing safe space where LGBTQIA+ individuals can be respected and be functional freely without fear.

Not just a political group, this sectoral group is an advocate for women and members of LGBTQIA+ by creating safe space to reach their maximum potential.

#128 Kababaihan Party-List

• Proposed Divorce Bill
• Microfinance Law for Women
• Night Care Center
• Tahanan ng Kababaihan
• LGBTQIA + Safe Space

Coseteng's candidacy under Kababaihan Partylist represents a commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by Filipino women. Her focus on economic empowerment and legal reform underscores a broader vision of a society where women are not just surviving but thriving.

As the 2025 elections approach, Councilor Kate Coseteng's platform offers a roadmap for inclusive and progressive change.

Read more on Kababaihan Partylist's mission to uplift and protect the rights of women in the Philippines, visit the Kababaihan Partylist Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/kababaihanpartylist

Sun, Sea, and Savings: Enjoy Exclusive Summer Deals at Discovery Samal

Tweet

Discovery Samal invites travelers to an unforgettable tropical escape with its Happy Summer offers, featuring luxurious accommodations, curated dining experiences, and a dynamic lineup of seasonal events.

Whether guests seek a relaxing retreat or a vibrant social scene, Discovery Samal presents a diverse array of exclusive promotions and immersive activities, designed to create memorable summer moments.

Premier Accommodations and Inclusions

Guests can indulge in the beauty of Samal Island with a selection of luxurious room options, offering comfort and elegance. Rates start at Php 24,112 nett per night for a Junior Suite, with higher-tier options such as the Premiere One-Bedroom Suite available at Php 34,427 nett per night.

Every booking includes a delightful breakfast for three at Morning Catch, ensuring a perfect start to each day. To make travel seamless, guests also enjoy roundtrip land and boat transfers for three. For leisurely moments, a complimentary bucket of local beers at Haribar provides a refreshing treat, while three hours of private karaoke room access allow for entertainment and relaxation. Adventure seekers can take advantage of one-hour use of a Crystal Kayak or Paddle Board, immersing themselves in the stunning waters of Samal. Additionally, each stay includes 20 tokens for indoor activities at the Mindanao Pavilion, offering engaging experiences within the resort.

Exciting Seasonal Events and Culinary Experiences

Discovery Samal goes beyond luxury accommodations by offering signature events and themed dining experiences throughout the season, blending cultural celebrations, sustainability initiatives, and indulgent dining.

A highlight of the season is the Madayaw Dabaw Lunch Buffet, a tribute to Davao’s rich culinary heritage, held every Saturday, Sunday, and holiday at Morning Catch for PHP 2,500 nett per person. Guests can also enjoy the Sunset Match BBQ Glamping Soiree, featuring a beachside BBQ buffet, gourmet street food, and an outdoor cinema every Friday, Saturday, and holiday at Haribar Lounge, priced at PHP 2,500 nett per person.

For those looking to explore local flavors, the Dabaw Local Beverage Experience offers regional-inspired cocktails at Haribar Lounge throughout March, April, and May, with drinks ranging from PHP 400 to PHP 500 per serving. Those seeking a fine-dining experience can indulge in Dine Under the Stars, an exclusive dinner set in a private dome overlooking the Samal coastline, available at The Bistro for Php 15,000 nett per couple.

For a communal dining experience, the LuzViMin Summer Fiesta celebrates the flavors of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao through a Boodle Feast at Morning Catch, priced between PHP 2,500 and PHP 3,400 nett per person. Families can also enjoy special Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations, featuring gourmet farm-to-table meals, wellness treats, and family-friendly activities in a stunning island setting.

Love Samal: The Ultimate Summer Celebration

One of the season’s most anticipated events, Love Samal Summer Party, will take place at Haribar Lounge on May 3, 2025. This event celebrates the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Samal Island with a blend of music, drinks, and exclusive VIP experiences.

Guests can choose from a range of ticket options to tailor their Love Samal Summer Party experience. General Admission, priced at PHP 1,888 nett per person, includes event access, one round of Bacardi cocktail, mocktail, or local beer, and one serving of bar chow. For those seeking an upgraded experience, the VIP Pass is available at PHP 3,500 nett per person, offering event access, two rounds of Bacardi cocktail, mocktail, or local beer, and two servings of bar chow. For the ultimate exclusive experience, the SVIP Pass, priced at PHP 20,000 for a group of five, includes five event tickets, a private cabana setup, a bottle of premium Bacardi spirit, VIP seating, and a specially curated menu.

For more information, visit www.discoverysamal.com or contact Discovery Samal via email at reservations@discoverysamal.com or call +63 84 308 2998.

Sarah Chang, actress, mother and superwoman!

Tweet

To her colleagues, family and friends, she is a kind, modest, cheerful, and goofy girl-next-door - loving mother, wife, and daughter. However, there is so much more than that for Sarah Chang. She is an award-winning, Hollywood-repped actress and international action star, a film producer and director, a former USA national Wushu champion, a businesswoman, and real estate entrepreneur. She has achieved great heights in so many sectors of her career.

Chang found a home in the Philippines with her Filipino husband, Vincent Soberano, who is also a filmmaker, actor and real estate entrepreneur.

Home Is Where the Heart Is

“I starred in the movie Blood Hunters which was shot in Bataan. Right after that, I starred in another international film, The Trigonal, shot in Bacolod,”

answered Chang when asked what made her decide to be in the Philippines. 

"Living and working in the Philippines in those months with my now-husband was absolutely life-changing for me. I really fell in love with the country and all that it offers.”

Her most favorite part of being in the country, she said: 

“The people! Hands down, Filipinos are the coolest, easiest to get along folks I've ever met.”

She carried on: 

“Working and doing business in the Philippines not only really easy but a total joy. Of course, there are the not-so-good ones out there, but isn't that the case everywhere else in the world? It's the Yin and Yang of life.”

“The most important thing to remember is to learn how to walk away from bad elements with your head held high. No regrets, no grudges, just invaluable lessons learned and negativity released,” Chang added.

For Chang, the Philippines is where her heart is, she said: 

“My husband and I go back and forth between Taiwan and the Philippines at least once a month. We spend between a week and three weeks each time. On special holidays when we bring our kids along, we'll spend up to three months at a time. I don't just come here for work or business. I have a lot of really close friends here that I can consider family. Where we live in the Clark/Angeles area, Pampanga, is teeming with expats. We have a close-knit community there and it truly feels like home.”

Chang’s work includes bringing producers to shoot in the country. And she cites three good reasons why it’s a breeze to shoot films here in Manila.

“The first, skillset, is very important, Filipinos are very skilled and competent technicians and artisans. They can operate filmmaking equipment just as well as any top-notch operators abroad.”

She explained the second reason: 

“The cost is a huge factor for producers, especially for independent films. Booking locations, renting vehicles, and labor costs, for example, could be as low as one-fifth the prices we would pay in the US. In short, we can potentially make a $5 million dollar film for $1 million in the Philippines.”

The third big advantage, Chang said: 

“Their knowledge of English. Most Filipinos understand, read and speak English, which is a universal language used by film crews from around the world. This makes for easier interaction and exchange of ideas. Some things are sometimes lost in translation, but for the most part, as long as you speak in slow, clear English, Filipino film workers will understand what you're saying.”

The challenges of working with Filipino film crews, said Chang: 

“In my experience, it’s mostly a cultural thing. I’ve brought in American and Chinese production cast and crew to film in the Philippines, alongside local Filipino counterparts. They mostly work well together, bridged by a common set language - English.”

She continued: 

“However, work habits and expectations may differ because of cultural orientation. For example, the Chinese film workers like to push as many hours as they possibly can just to cut costs for additional shooting days. American film workers strictly adhere to the US union regulations of working hours. There’s also the phrase I often hear from Filipinos. For a while, ma’am.” As an American, I’m interpreting this as, “It’s going to take a long time,” whereas Filipinos actually mean the opposite. It’s both endearing and annoying at the same time. (laughs) It would have been easier to say, “Just a minute, please.”

“Other than that, and a few minor things, working with Filipinos in a film set is very rewarding and fun. ” Chang said. 

“Everyone is always cheerful and hospitable. Everyone always tries to do the right thing. Just be vocal and communicate your needs and expectations and the local teams here will definitely accommodate you. They have never failed me in all of my productions here. I couldn’t ask for a better team.”

Her work experiences with Filipino actors, Chang was all praises: 

"Most Filipino actors I’ve worked with are serious professionals and with funny, goofy sense of humor. I love that! We always have a lot of fun and laughs on the set. So memorable!”

Aside from being a film maker and wife, being a mom is Chang’s number one priority, Chang said; 

“I feel blessed and lucky to have a solid home team behind me - My husband, my mom, our household staff, all these people keep me grounded and give me the assistance.”

“I need to take care of my kids. I don’t want to be an absentee parent. I want to be there for all my kids’ major events, from birthdays to recitals.Because my husband and I don’t have a conventional nine-to-five job, and we have the flexibility to create our own work schedules, it makes things a lot easier to spend lots of time with our kids.”

Other ventures

Other than acting and filmmaking, the Soberanos have invested in real estate 

“My husband and I invest heavily in real estate in the Philippines and Taiwan,” Chang said. “We focus on acquiring below-market properties from the volatile Philippine real estate sector, turning these properties into cash generating assets.”

Aside from real estate, Chang shared: 

“I am also a distributor for Riman, a South Korean skincare brand and one of the top skin products in Korea right now. I established my business in Taiwan and am now in the process of establishing a distributorship in the Philippines. It is something I feel passionate about because I'm a successful user of these products. They really work!”

Why invest in the real estate market in the Philippines? Chang answered: 

“Price, location, connections. You can buy a large house in any progressive city in the Philippines for the price of a small apartment in New York City.”

“With my husband, who has the right connections and relationships, we are able to spot great real estate investment opportunities and snatch them up quickly. We then quickly turn around and put most of these properties in the rental market,” Chang said.

95 percent of the Soberano rentals are currently rentals are currently occupied because, Chang explained: 

“We buy in the right locations, at the right price, and with a strong property management team.”

“The passive income cash flow is great, and it enables us with time and finances to diversify into other ventures and businesses,” said Chang.

The "secret sauce" for their success, Chang said: 

“My team, starting with my husband Vincent. In filmmaking, just as much as real estate, your biggest asset is the people who work for you. When I started producing movies, my only background was as an actor. I had no idea how to produce a movie. Thus, I hired experienced line producers and production managers, and surrounded myself with positive, loyal people who could teach me and guide me on the job. That was my film school, really. On the job training! So yes, my not-so-secret secret weapon is my team."

Her advice to other actors, filmmakers and entrepreneurs? Chang replied: 

“I say, pay attention, take advantage, focus on finances. Pay attention to the industry and the markets. Take advantage of job and investment opportunities. Focus on what you do with your money. Don’t just leave your money in your savings account. Inflation will depreciate all that. Budget your living expenses and put the rest of your money into assets that generate cash flow like high-yield fixed-term deposits, real estate, and small businesses.”

In conclusion, Chang said: 

“Simply put, make your money make more money. The world economy is now in limbo and we don’t really know where things are heading financially. For the sake of your family and kids, be more mindful of finances and strategic with your money.”

Sarah Chang, she is indeed one superwoman!

Mega Mackerel, Your Lenten Staple for Malaman, Malinamnam, and Meat-Free Recipes

Tweet

As the company behind the Philippines’ #1 sardines brand, Mega Prime Foods, Inc. extends its commitment to nourishing Filipinos through Mega Mackerel, offering affordable and nutritious food to enrich and uplift the lives of Filipinos.

During Lent or Holy Week, one of the country’s most significant religious holidays, many families turn to meat-free recipes as a form of penance and meaningful sacrifice.

Mega Mackerel serves as a trusted choice for meat-free recipes while also keeping your dishes malaman and malinamnam. A recommended meat alternative for dishes such as sinigang, bistek, or even sisig, Mega Mackerel offers the same level of flavorful, filling, and nutritious satisfaction, but with the added benefits of being more heart-healthy and affordable.

Here are quick and easy recipes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds in observance of Holy Week:

Mega Mackerel Pasta

A simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Sauté garlic, onions, and Mega Mackerel in olive oil, then toss with your favorite pasta. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs for extra taste.

Mega Mackerel Sinigang

Craving something sour and comforting? Replace your usual pork or shrimp with Mega Mackerel for a twist on the classic sinigang. The fish adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy broth.

Mega Mackerel Spring Roll

Level up your spring rolls by using Mega Mackerel as a flavorful filling. Combined with fresh veggies and wrapped in a crisp shell, it’s a light yet tasty option that’s perfect as a snack or appetizer.

Mega Mackerel Cucumber Salad

Perfect for a light meal, toss Mega Mackerel with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and your favorite vinaigrette. For extra crunch, add some crispy fried onions or nuts.

Mega Mackerel Omurice

Upgrade your usual omurice by adding Mega Mackerel for a savory twist. The rich flavor of the mackerel blends perfectly with the fluffy egg and ketchup rice, making each bite extra satisfying and delicious.

Mega Mackerel Curry

Spice up your meal with Mega Mackerel Curry. The bold flavors of curry perfectly complement the rich, savory taste of Mega Mackerel—creating a comforting dish that’s best enjoyed with a warm bowl of rice..

Discover More Mega Mackerel Favorites

With its delicious taste, premium quality, and incredible versatility, let Mega Mackerel be your kitchen ally as you observe Holy Week. You may visit Mega Prime Foods Inc.’s website megaprimefoods.com.ph or Facebook for more delicious recipes that are sure to become family favorites.

Have a summer to remember with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G

Tweet

Summer brings sunshine and good vibes for everyone. For working students, it's a break from school and a chance to earn. For fresh grads, it's about squeezing in a spontaneous getaway before starting a new chapter in the workforce.

But just because you have all these responsibilities doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a quick break. This is the perfect excuse to hit pause and recharge and you can leave it to the OPPO A5 Pro 5G to be by your side as you squeeze in trips to nearby resorts, document your wins, and enjoy chill moments with friends.

Protected from everyday uncertainties

After a hectic year juggling school and work, you finally get the chance to unwind with friends at a beautiful resort for the weekend. As you relax by the pool, casually scrolling through your phone, your friend unexpectedly jumps in, sending a huge splash your way—soaking you and your phone.

This will not dampen your vacation as the OPPO A5 Pro 5G has IP69, IP68, and IP66 water and dust resistance ratings , meaning it can withstand occasional water mishaps. With an IP68 rating, the OPPO A5 Pro can even withstand being submerged in water as hot as 85°C while the IP69 rating shields it from intense water sprays and dust penetration.

Tough enough for anything

Job hunting can be stressful so a quick trip to a relaxing destination is well-deserved. As you scroll through your phone to kill time during the long drive or snap pictures of the scenic view, the vehicle suddenly jolted as it hit a pothole, sending a sharp shake. Caught off guard, your phone slipped from your grip and clattered onto the floor.

The OPPO A5 Pro 5G's Military-Grade Shock Resistance puts your concerns that your phone will be damaged to rest. As a living proof of the #OPPOLangSakalam reputation of the OPPO A Series for its top-tier durability, it can withstand falls from as high as 5-meter drops without sustaining any structural damage. The device also has foam and silicone cushioning inside along with a sturdy motherboard cover which protects its delicate parts from shocks.

Embrace the sunshine and capture every detail

It won't be long until you have to go back to reality and face your responsibilities. Having something to look back on can make a difference during those stressful times ahead.

You can capture your summer memories with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G’s powerful camera! Whether you're chilling with friends or exploring new spots, this phone’s 50MP Main Camera, 2MP Portrait Camera, and 8MP Front Camera ensure your photos come out sharp and clear from any angle. With the Livephoto feature, it even captures a few seconds of video and sound before and after your shot, bringing your moments to life.

Thanks to OPPO’s AI Imaging, your photos will look even better. The Portrait Mode combines the 50MP and 2MP lenses for stunning portraits, while AI Portrait Retouching smooths out imperfections. Plus, AI tools like AI Unblur sharpen blurry shots, AI Reflection Remover clears up glass reflections, and AI Eraser 2.0 lets you remove unwanted objects, so you can focus on what matters most in your summer snaps.

Take on the summer heat with the OPPO A5 Pro 5G

Ready for remarkable adventures this summer with a reliable and durable smartphone? You can get OPPO’s strongest A Series device yet via OPPO’s Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop e-commerce platforms and authorized stores nationwide!

● The OPPO A5 Pro 5G (8GB+256GB) is priced at Php 15,999 and comes in Bloom Pink and Mocha Brown colors.

● The OPPO A5 Pro (8GB+128GB) is priced at Php 10,999 and comes in Mocha Brown and Olive Green colors.

You can also get the OPPO A5 Pro 5G or the OPPO A5 Pro in easy payment terms through Home Credit which offers a 6- to 18-month interest-free payment plan, or through your credit card for 0% interest over 6 or 12 months payment plans.

Dance your way to a million pesos with the #OPPOA5ProSnapandSlay Dance Challenge

Turn up the summer heat and dance to the beat with the #OPPOA5ProSnapandSlay Dance Challenge for a chance to win 1 Million Pesos by following these steps:

● Film your best dance moves using the #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge’s official audio for a minimum of 15 seconds while creatively incorporating different weather elements like heavy rains, hot weather, or windy days. Hit up Jackie Gonzaga, Ken San Jose, Joshua Decena, Aira Casim, and Sesable's posts for the official dance challenge audio and maybe get some slick move ideas along the way!

● Post your video on TikTok using the hashtag #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay, tag @oppophilippines, and ask your friends to hype up your entry by engaging on your post.

● Secure your entry by filling out this Google Form (https://bit.ly/4k5CoXX) and manifest your success!

Official entries to the #OPPOA5ProSnapAndSlay Dance Challenge will be evaluated by a group of judges based on the following criteria:

● Choreography - You must display creativity, originality and skillful execution of your moves.

● Creativity - Your entries must also creatively show your dance moves in any weather conditions or water elements.

● Stage Presence - Show off your swag, confidence and charisma in your dance video.

● Execution / Precision - Be flawless when you flaunt your moves.

● Overall Impact - Showcase yourself having a great time while snapping and slaying your way to winning.

There is no limit to the number of entries you want to submit! Each dance video you post until April 25 will be counted as one entry.