PascualLab Takes Sponsored Youth from World Vision on a Learning Journey

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Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab) and international charitable institution World Vision’s partnership took an exciting turn on June 4 as one of the top pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines’ welcomed sponsored youth to an exclusive tour around the company’s manufacturing plant. PascualLab volunteers and sponsors took the students ranging from elementary to high school through an immersive trip at PascualLab’s Quality Assurance, Warehouse, and Production areas as well as a trip down memory lane to PascualLab’s rich history of innovation.

From left to right, top to bottom: World Vision team headed by Public Affairs Manager David Rioferio surprised team PascualLab headed by SVP and Chief Manufacturing Officer Higinio “Jun” Porte with a Certificate of Appreciation for the four-year partnership; Team PascualLab toured students from a World Vision-assisted community to an immersive tour of the government-certified facility in Bulacan; volunteers shared PascualLab’s history of innovation at the museum; and Team World Vision vouches for the #PascualLove, evident in the activity.

In his welcome speech SVP and Chief Manufacturing Officer Higinio “Jun” Porte inspired the students to pursue their dreams whether small or big, be it in the health industry or outside of it. World Vision Interim National Director Jun Godornes through Public Affairs Manager David Rioferio shared: “Our long years of partnership with PascualLab has significantly helped improve the well-being of the most vulnerable children through programs in health and nutrition, education, including values formation and spiritual nurture, child protection and participation, savings and livelihood, disaster preparedness, and emergency response. Major Donor Engagement Specialist Monseratt Luna specified: "Thank you for not just allowing but providing the lens for these children to see the world in your perspective, enabling them to be educated in the field of pharmaceuticals and the impact it has on improving lives." 

Fellow Specialist Christine Penaojas, ended: “We truly felt the #PascualLove through this well-organized trip that enlightened us too on how we’re so aligned in values because of injections of faith all throughout.”

PascualLab and World Vision encourage interested participants to sponsor children via https://www.worldvision.org.ph

Shanti Dope Introduces Seven New Tracks In Latest Raw And Unfiltered EP

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Rap Phenom Shanti Dope just dropped his latest EP called DRUGS.

It is a seven-track collection that takes listeners on an introspective journey through the artist's personal experiences and societal observations. This latest release has already garnered significant attention, with the standout track “Thug” being featured on Spotify PH’s Bago Sa Kalye, Tatak Pinoy, and Kalye playlists.

Following the release, Shanti Dope shared his heartfelt thoughts with fans on Facebook, expressing his excitement about this latest offering.

"Yoooo! Maririnig niyo na sa Drxg$ EP na 'to yung gusto isigaw ng espirito ni SHANTI DOPE nung mga panahong gusto ko ikwento yung amat sa'kin ng musika, yung mga panahong nawala yung kaibigan ko, yung mga araw na di ko alam san ako tatakbo hanggang ito na nga... sounds muna kayo jan habang rainy szn. Comment niyo na din ano favorite track and lyrics. Enjoy!”

The "DRUGS" EP stands as a poignant reflection on contemporary society, where various forms of addiction often go unnoticed. Through his music, Shanti Dope illuminates how fame, vanity, and the pursuit of affirmation have shifted from niche experiences to widespread obsessions. The EP opens with "Lift Off Freestyle," a track symbolizing the desire to escape reality's constraints and explore new dimensions, mirroring a quest for liberation from societal pressures.

Each song on the EP is characterized by its raw and unfiltered nature. Shanti Dope delves deep into his life, sharing the pain of losing friends to street violence, the heartache of betrayal by a lover, and even cinematic, almost fictional scenarios that offer a window into his unique perspective on various events. His candid storytelling and evocative lyricism ensure that every track resonates deeply with listeners.

Shanti Dope's evolution as an artist shines through in "DRUGS," capturing the sensibilities of the new generation and solidifying his continued relevance in the music scene. This EP marks a pivotal phase in his career, showcasing his willingness to share unfiltered truths and engage with his audience on a profound level. With "DRUGS," Shanti Dope aims to convey his message in its purest, most creative form, free from conventional constraints.

As fans dive into the "DRUGS" EP, they are invited to reflect on their own experiences and the societal issues highlighted by Shanti Dope. The artist encourages listeners to share their favorite tracks and lyrics, fostering a deeper connection within his community of supporters.

Stream this new EP on your favorite digital music streaming platforms.

DRUGS EP Tracklist

“Lift Off Freestyle”

“Drxg$”

“Coke and Marijuana”

“Kaibigan Ko”

“Soundcheck”

“Thug”

“High”

Stream “Drugs EP:

Spotify | Apple Music | Audio Clip

FOLLOW SHANTI DOPE!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/shantidope

Instagram: @shantidope.younggod

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6ogIjp0fsbUxlqy9q2rvrT?si=ml50dDxoRF62rELvdYPguQ

TikTok: @officialshantidope

FOLLOW UNIVERSAL RECORDS PH!

Facebook: facebook.com/universalrecordsph

X (formerly Twitter): @universalrec_ph

Instagram: @universalrecordsph

TikTok: @universalrecph

BDO and SM elevate the shopping experience for OF families w/ Kabayan Tuesday

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Papa P at SM City Caloocan for Kabayan Tuesday. Award-winning actor and BDO Remit brand ambassador Piolo Pascual mingles with overseas Filipino families during the formal launch of Kabayan Tuesday at SM City Caloocan last June 4.

For countless overseas Filipino families, SM is more than just a mall—it's a hub for shopping, bonding, and essential errands. Recognizing this, BDO Unibank has teamed up with SM to enhance these experiences through the innovative Kabayan Tuesday initiative.

“For the last 20 years, BDO and SM have been collaborating to teach overseas Filipinos and their families about saving and financial management through lively financial literacy seminars, complete with celebrities, games, and freebies at various SM malls," said Genie T. Gloria, BDO Senior Vice President and Head of Remittance. “Starting in 2024, we wanted to make their essential shopping even more rewarding by leveraging their Kabayan Savings. With Kabayan Tuesday, their trips to SM can now be not just fulfilling but also economical.”

Kabayan Tuesday: Exclusive savings and perks

Available every first Tuesday of the month, Kabayan Tuesday is BDO’s special way of thanking overseas Filipino families for their loyalty. By presenting their Kabayan Savings ATM card, passbook, or BDO remittance payment slip at any SM branch nationwide, customers can enjoy up to a 10% discount at popular SM stores including The SM Store, SM Appliance, Watsons, Miniso, Toy Kingdom, Surplus, Baby Company, Sports Central, ACE Hardware, SM Cinema, SM Game Park, SM Bowling, and SM Skating.

This exciting promo, which began on January 2, was officially celebrated on June 4 at the newly opened SM City Caloocan with a vibrant Kabayan Tuesday Mall Show featuring BDO Remit brand ambassador Piolo Pascual.

SM City Caloocan opened its doors to the public on May 17, offering a fresh destination for families. “With the opening of SM Caloocan, we saw an opportunity to hold our Kabayan Tuesday event here, knowing it’s a favored spot for overseas Filipinos and their families,” said Gloria.

The collaboration with SM has significantly boosted the number of Kabayan Savings account holders, and there's more to come. “We are continually adding more partners to provide discounts,” Gloria added.

More than just shopping discounts

Jonjon San Agustin, Senior Vice President for Marketing of SM Supermalls, emphasized the broader benefits. “Kabayan Tuesday is just one of the many rewarding experiences at SM. Customers can also take advantage of other promotions and additional discounts across departments.”

Even those without a Kabayan Savings account can enjoy Kabayan Tuesday discounts through Cash Pick-up of remittances at BDO Remit counters inside SM Stores, SM Supermarket, and Save More. “Claim your remittance, present the slip at the cashier, and enjoy the discounts,” explained Gloria.

Building a secure financial future

Gloria also highlighted the long-term benefits of having a Kabayan Savings account. “Regular use of a Kabayan account for remittances builds a solid banking record, which is beneficial for future loan or credit card applications. A good relationship with a formal financial institution like BDO is invaluable.”

Bank savings are also safer, being regulated by the Bangko Sentral and insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. “Saving in banks means overseas Filipinos’ hard-earned money is more secure,” Gloria stressed. “That’s why they trust banks more.”

With Kabayan Tuesday, BDO and SM are not just offering discounts—they’re providing overseas Filipino families with more value, security, and a reason to celebrate each month.

SIGMA Asia 2024 cites ArenaPlus among best iGaming platform in Asia

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DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (DigiPlus)—the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country—continues to dominate the iGaming sector in the country with its award-winning platforms.

ArenaPlus, DigiPlus’s 24/7 sportsbook app, was recently awarded the “Best Sportsbook Operator for 2024” by SIGMA Group, an international events and media organization focused on iGaming, emerging tech, digital health, and affiliate marketing.

During the SIGMA Asia Awards 2024 held recently in Manila, ArenaPlus was among those recognized for its contributions in the digital entertainment industry, particularly its innovations in the online betting scene in the country.

DigiPlus President Andy Tsui receives the award

“We are honored to receive this recognition and thank the SIGMA Group for providing this opportunity to showcase innovation and creativity in the flourishing gaming industry. This inspires us to push ourselves to continue to innovate and revolutionize Filipinos’ entertainment experience,” said DigiPlus President Andy Tsui.

Aside from the awards night, DigiPlus also joined the largest gaming show in Asia: the SIGMA Asia Convention, which provided different platforms and activities to showcase and exhibit the brands’ full potential.

The company, under its products BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, hosted a media lounge to cater to on-ground media activities and to ensure brand presence in local and international media releases. ArenaPlus also provided support for the Startup Pitch section, which focused on showcasing and championing emerging startups, providing a prime platform for projects to shine.

On top of these milestones, DigiPlus also bagged multiple awards from the 9th Global Good Governance Awards or 3G Awards held last April in Taguig City.

Cambridge International Finance Advisory (Cambridge IFA), a global financial services intelligence house, bestowed DigiPlus with the 3G Best Social Responsibility Campaign Award 2024 and 3G Excellence in ESG Award 2024, thus reinforcing the company’s commitment to make a positive impact on society.

____________________

About DigiPlus

DigiPlus is the fastest-growing digital entertainment company in the country. It operates the country’s leading digital platforms BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, PeryaGame, Tongits+, and BingoPlus Poker, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.

The enduring spirit of Independence Day heroes lives on in mompreneurs

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As we commemorate the country’s 126th Independence Day, we also reflect on its meaning and relevance in today's world. Just as we had inspiring heroes fighting for the Philippines’ right to self-government and freedom from colonial rule in 1898, we have modern-day heroes that continue to contribute to the nation’s growth and to individual self-sufficiency today.

These are Filipinos who overcome hardships to achieve personal and financial empowerment through entrepreneurship. According to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, MSMEs “generate 62.4 percent of the country's total employment, contribute 36 percent of gross value added, and account for 25 percent of total exports.”

Madiskarte Moms PH, an online community that supports starting and established mompreneurs, exemplifies the enduring spirit of Filipinos whose businesses create opportunities for our people.

By creating products using materials and designs that are Filipino-centric impacts everyone in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. It creates direct and indirect employment for suppliers and communities.

If there is any modern-day example of heroes, it is Filipino mothers who are smart to realize that it doesn’t takes a huge capital to start a business. When they changed their mindset that it could be done, they did it. After all, when you’re fighting for your family’s future, you become brave like the hero you can be.

From OFWs to business owners

For Lois Gabriel, mother of three daughters and an OFW in Dubai for six years in the early 2000s, the secret to becoming an entrepreneur was using her biggest skill: coordinating things. “Not everyone can coordinate with too many suppliers all at the same time. I am very good at reminding clients, following up suppliers, and doing quality control during execution.”

In Dubai, her degree in communication and her skill at organizing events paved the way to a side hustle in putting up events for her friends and church mates. When she came home to the Philippines to give birth, she decided to put up Lois Gabriel Events where she wears many hats as event coordinator, host and professional makeup artist.

“My first attempt didn’t materialize. In 2008, I enrolled at the School Fashion and Arts (SOFA) , where I took up makeup artistry. That was a game changer. I launched my makeup artistry page, clients were also looking for event coordination and that was the rebirth of Lois Gabriel Events. Currently, I have five people on staff and on call staff whenever I have events booked.”

The pandemic all but stopped her business but not her dreams. “My husband was earning enough for our daily needs, but we had no savings. Also, a very important reason for starting a business was my self-fulfillment as a woman and human being—that I am able to surpass the mediocrity cast upon women. It takes a lot of sweat and tears to be able to sustain a business.”

Another former OFW, April Ocampo worked in Macau and Singapore until the pandemic. In 2020, she was in the Philippines on maternity leave. For the next three years she was unemployed and became a full-time mom.

She wasn’t used to not working and suffered from post-partum depression. It caused her to question her worth, caused her anxiety and self-pity.“Napakaganda ng tinatakbo ng career ko noongwala pa akonganak. OFW po ako at tumutulongsapangangailangan ng pamilyanamin, may sarilingpera at kalayaan dati. Nawalan ako ng identity.”

To be honest, she says, putting up a business in the beginning was simply for herself, “para saakingsarili, para po sa sanity, at lalonglalo na po sa self-worth ko.”

In January this year, she put up Bounty Honey which sources wild honey in Mindanao. Her business began with only 18 bottles and P3,200.

Now, she is faced with the happy problem of supply since the demand for her honey is rising.

Leaving the comfort of the corporate world

Mommy Princess is a mompreneur who embodies an entrepreneur who tries her hand at business while an employee (she worked in BPO for 18 years) until she finally does it full time. During the pandemic, her company paid their employees three months despite halting work (they went back to the office after).

While stuck at home she sold homemade body wash under the name ISLA but pressed pause because she couldn’t find the right supplier. In 2022, she pivoted ISLA to handmade accessories using macramé and clay because they didn’t expire. “I’m a single parent with a 10-year-old and I still handcraft my jelwery pieces. When I have a lot of orders, I ask for help.” She employs stay-at-home moms and working students.

Mommy Princess says one of the biggest challenges in starting a business is limting one’s belief. “Whenyou’re surrounded by people that are not business minded, you get inputs like ‘Mahirapyan,’ ‘Naku saturated na ang market.’ The advantage in 2022 was it felt like everyone is starting a new normal life. So why not defy all the odds? What kept me going was my assurance that God got my back. His grace is sufficient.

Another corporate employee since she graduated from college, Ayeng Antonio-Mendez opened Abuela Café and Bakery in the last quarter of 2022 and began full operations in August the following year.

When you have a full-time job, starting a business takes courage because you are either leaving a regular income or if you don’t leave you’re adding more stress to your life. “In terms of our corporate job, we were doing very well. But on the business side, this is the most complicated because construction is ongoing then and there have been delays and additional costs.”

Mom to a four-year-old daughter, Ayeng says her family—her brother and sister-in-law, Ayeng and her husband—started the café because it was a long-held dream of her mom. “We are all working in the corporate world, and we thought why not we try to build our own business that someday our children will also benefit from and maybe continue. We also carry some recipes we had inherited from our grandmothers too. It’s like making their legacy and ours, combined, to continue evolving.”

These women have created a chain of impact around them—not only economically but also mentally: to be brave, to be open to new possibilities, to take on challenges along the way—that’s true freedom.

Empower yourself like these Filipino moms. Join Madiskarte Moms PH on Facebook.