PLDT Resets for 2026 PVL On Tour After Championship Run

 With fresh legs and fresh faces following their bronze finish at the All-FIlipino Conference, the High Speed Hitters look to show their mettle anew in exhibition matches across the Philippines

 

A podium finish in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference 2026 merited the PLDT High Speed Hitters some well-deserved rest and relaxation. After securing a hard-fought bronze, their first-ever podium place in a regular season, the squad rightfully traded their jerseys for comfort as they recovered for what’s next.

 

Off the court, on the couch

PLDT showcased a journey defined by grit, composure, and resilience altogether that saw them stand tall against top-tier rivals. So, ahead of the PVL On Tour exhibition matches, how did a team used to playing at such high speed slow down?

 

For head coach Rald Ricafort, the break was about balance. "We highly prioritize the balance between the work that we put in since the pre-season and the rest needed after every conference," he shared.

 

While Coach Ricafort himself admits he stays active with pickleball and tennis, he’s a self-proclaimed homebody at heart who uses the time to study new volleyball trends abroad. His current watchlist? "I might try streaming One Piece on Netflix," he said.

 

The players are equally intentional about their recovery.

 

Setter Kim Fajardo emphasizes the importance of mental and emotional self-checking. "It’s a time for self-realization," she noted. When she's not staying active, you’ll find her bonding with family or diving into travel-focused shows like Somebody Feed Phil on Netflix.

 

For outside hitter Kiesha Bedonia, the goal is a complete reset of the mind, body, and identity. "We need to prioritize sleep, do light movements like walking and stretching," she explained. When she’s not resting, she’s rewatching One Piece, inspired by the loyalty and personality of the characters on screen.

 

As an architect off the court, opposite hitter Jessey De Leon looks to the arts for her downtime. "I really enjoy doing creative work whenever I feel inspired – it helps me reset and feel like myself again outside of the sport," she shared. When De Leon is not working on architecture projects or spending time with her pamangkins, she’s practicing the fine art of "bedrotting" – also known as fully recharging, while binge-watching shows like Better Call Saul on Netflix.

 

Renewed roster

Now that the recovery phase is officially wrapped up, the High Speed Hitters head back to the court with an improved lineup. Last year, the team clinched their first PVL championship at On Tour – one convincingly won with an undefeated tournament record and one that famously followed heartbreaks of past conferences.

 

For this year’s new On Tour format, PLDT first bolstered its squad with the arrival of Jessa Ordiales. A talented opposite spiker, she’s poised to be another potent frontcourt weapon for Coach Ricafort. Settling into her new home in PLDT, Ordiales emphasizes the importance of a low-key recovery. "Transitioning to a new team is exciting, but I’ve learned that the best way to get ready for the next challenge is to truly unplug at home," Ordiales noted. "I love just keeping it simple – good food, family time, and catching up on the series I’ve missed during the season."

 

Adding to the youth and energy of the squad is rookie Fianne Ariola. A standout setter from the Perpetual Lady Altas, she was the 8th pick in the first round of the 2026 PVL Rookie Draft. "Being a rookie in this league is a huge transition, so I’m really making sure I use this time to reset properly," Ariola shared. "Recovery for me right now is all about staying relaxed, binge-watching my favorite shows, and just mentally prepping for the work ahead."

 

Fellow Lady Altas alumna and former Galeries Tower Highrisers player Winnie Bedaña also enters PLDT with lots of promise. “Joining PLDT is an opportunity I’m truly grateful for. This is a team with a strong winning culture and a passionate organization behind it. I’m excited to learn from my teammates and contribute in any way I can,” she said.

 

Completing the team’s preseason recruitment is outside hitter Joan Monares. As the University of the Philippines’ former volleyball team captain, Monares brings leadership plus extra firepower to the wings. "Stepping into the pro ranks with a team as competitive as PLDT is definitely a dream come true, but it's also a big adjustment," Monares admitted. "My favorite way to recharge at home is to keep things quiet. I’m a big fan of just getting some good rest whenever I could and finding time to decompress after training. Whether it’s listening to music or just hanging out at home with family, it helps me clear my mind so I can give 100% when I step onto the court for the team."

 

The High Speed Hitters recently bid farewell to setter Anj Legacion and middle blocker Zeth Perolino. Yet, combined with the leadership of ever-reliable and multi-awarded veterans in Kath Arado, Savi Davison, Mika Reyes, Majoy Baron, and Kim Kianna Dy among others, the roster shift signals an even more competitive chapter ahead for PLDT.

 

Catch every spike, save, and celebration at the PVL On Tour 2026. Follow the PLDT High Speed Hitters on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok to stay connected to the action.

5 Reasons the TCL A400 Series Fits Today's Modern Filipino Home

 For those who demand both artistic expression and aesthetic sensibility from their home technology, the search officially ends here. TCL, the Philippines' Number 1 Panel TV Brand, is completely changing how we view television with the launch of the TCL A400 Series.

Tailored specifically for the modern, design-conscious Filipino home, this premium lifestyle television masterfully bridges the gap between elegant gallery aesthetics and deeply immersive entertainment.

“The overwhelming response since the debut of the TCL A400 Series has been nothing short of remarkable. Recognizing a growing desire among tech-savvy design enthusiasts for displays that seamlessly complement contemporary interiors, TCL delivered the perfect solution. Beyond its cutting-edge smart features, the series brings a true art gallery experience into the home. This is achieved through two distinct, premium options: the anti-reflection Matte HVA screen on the A400 Pro, and the traditional, high-contrast HVA Panel on the A400M,” says Maxi Chen, Senior Product Manager of Brownline, TCL Philippines.

If you are looking to elevate your contemporary living space, here are five reasons why the TCL A400 Series deserves to be your home's next centerpiece:

 

1. It Transforms Your Living Room into a World-Class Art Gallery

More than just a television, the TCL A400 Series serves as a digital canvas that effortlessly elevates any room into a personal gallery. Through its interactive Art Gallery Mode, the display gives you instant access to a massive library featuring more than 100,000 beautifully rendered artworks. You can easily navigate through various centuries and styles—from classical masterpieces to vibrant impressionism—to perfectly match the mood of your home.

 

2. Revolutionary QD-Mini LED & QLED Color Brilliance

Driven by groundbreaking QD-Mini LED technology, the TCL A400 Series delivers striking contrast, luminous highlights, and rich, deep blacks that unveil delicate textures and hidden details. Its brilliance lies in a sophisticated QLED system that integrates advanced Quantum Dot materials across multiple layers. Not only does this bring more than a billion colors to life with lifelike brightness, but its high light-transmittance film also maximizes optical efficiency, achieving a 10% reduction in power consumption.

 

3. Next-Gen Supercomputing Powered by the TSR AiPQ Processor

Intelligence takes center stage in this series, redefining what it means to be a "smart" TV. Powered by TCL's proprietary quantum supercomputing platform and the advanced Mariana database, the display actively learns and evolves alongside your viewing habits. The exceptional performance is anchored by the TSR AiPQ Processor. This chip handles real-time, pixel-level visual optimization with absolute precision, automatically optimizing your entertainment across four revolutionary pillars: AI Picture, AI Sound, Smart Interaction, and AI-driven content creation.

 

4. Theater-Grade Sound by ONKYO

True home entertainment is a complete sensory experience, which is why TCL paired its stunning visuals with a built-in ONKYO Hi-Fi Sound System. Crafted by a global leader with 80 years of theater-grade audio expertise, this premium acoustic integration guarantees an unmatched, deeply immersive audio performance tailored perfectly for modern living spaces.

 

5. Sophisticated Ultra-Slim Design with Exclusive Frame Options

Whether elegantly mounted on the wall like a framed masterpiece or displayed on its sleek stand, the ultra-slim TCL A400 Series commands attention as an unmistakable design statement. To cater to different aesthetic and panel preferences, TCL has introduced two distinct, premium options: with the TCL A400M featuring a classic, traditional high-contrast HVA Panel encased in a sleek black frame and with the TCL A400 Pro showcases an anti-reflection Matte HVA screen wrapped in an elegant wooden frame.

 

 

“The TCL A400 Series brings an elevated artistic experience directly to discerning Filipino homeowners,”says Mr. Chen. “Designed to merge premium technology with high-end interior design, it is the perfect centerpiece for spaces that demand both style and substance.”

 

Ready to bring the museum experience into your home? The black-framed A400M is available exclusively at Abenson, while the wooden-framed A400 Pro can be found exclusively at SM Appliance Center.

 

For more details on the TCL A400 Series, log on towww.tcl.com.

Why More Filipinos Trust Cebuana Lhuillier for Their Foreign Currency Needs

 From overseas travel and international studies to business transactions and family support across borders, more Filipinos today are engaging with the global economy. As international financial needs continue to grow, choosing the right currency exchange provider has become more important than ever.

As the country's trusted Global Currency Center, Cebuana Lhuillier Money XChange helps Filipinos meet their foreign currency needs through reliable and accessible exchange solutions.

“Our goal has always been to empower Filipinos by making financial solutions accessible, secure, and customer-focused,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier. “Through Cebuana Lhuillier Money XChange, we aim to provide Filipinos with the trust, convenience, and reliability they need when managing their foreign currency requirements.”

With more options available today, consumers are becoming increasingly selective about where they exchange their money. Here are five key factors worth considering when choosing a currency exchange provider:

1. Competitive and Transparent Rates1. Competitive and Transparent Rates

Exchange rates directly affect the value customers receive from every transaction. Transparency is equally important, allowing consumers to exchange with confidence and avoid unexpected costs. Cebuana Lhuillier Money XChange offers competitive rates supported by real-time market monitoring and regulatory compliance.

2. A Trusted Name and Proven Track Record2. A Trusted Name and Proven Track Record

A provider's reputation can be just as important as its rates. Consumers often look for institutions with a long history of reliability and service excellence. For decades, Cebuana Lhuillier has served millions of Filipinos through its broad range of financial services. That same commitment to trust and customer care extends to Cebuana Lhuillier Money XChange.

3. Access to the Currencies That Matter Most3. Access to the Currencies That Matter Most

A dependable foreign exchange provider should be able to meet a wide range of currency requirements through readily available and reliable exchange services. As the country's trusted Global Currency Center, Cebuana Lhuillier Money XChange provides access to major global currencies through reliable and accessible foreign exchange solutions.

4. Convenience and Accessibility4. Convenience and Accessibility

Consumers increasingly value services that are easy to access and fit into their daily routines. Through Cebuana Lhuillier Money XChange Click-and-Collect service, customers can reserve foreign currency online and pick it up at their preferred branch, making transactions more convenient and efficient.

5. Security and Peace of Mind5. Security and Peace of Mind

Foreign exchange transactions should be supported by strong safeguards and compliance standards that help ensure accuracy and security. Cebuana Lhuillier Money XChange follows strict operational and compliance protocols, giving customers added peace of mind with every transaction.

“As global opportunities continue to expand for Filipinos, the need for reliable foreign exchange services becomes even more important,” said Philippe Andre Lhuillier, Senior Executive Vice President of Cebuana Lhuillier. “Foreign exchange is not just about converting currencies—it is about helping Filipinos connect with opportunities around the world through simple, secure, and convenient financial solutions.”

As more Filipinos engage with the global economy, choosing a trusted foreign exchange partner becomes increasingly important. Through competitive rates, accessibility, security, and a legacy of service, Cebuana Lhuillier Money XChange continues to strengthen its role as the country's trusted Global Currency Center.

Could You Get Free Internet for Life? PLDT Home's New BFF Promo Says Yes

For three Filipino families, winning PLDT Home's Broadband Free Forever (BFF) promo means more than free internet. It means one less monthly household expense to worry about, greater opportunities for work and learning, and more time and resources to focus on what matters most.

PLDT Home recently awarded Free Fiber for Life to three grand prize winners during a ceremony in Makati City, while 75 other subscribers from across the country received one year of free Fiber service.

Launched this year, PLDT Home’s Broadband Free Forever (BFF) promo is the country’s first and biggest broadband rewards program, giving new subscribers the chance to enjoy exclusive offers, perks, and the opportunity to win free internet for life.

The stories of this year's grand prize winners reflect how reliable connectivity has become an essential part of everyday life, supporting livelihoods, education, family relationships, hobbies, and even service to the community.

Among the grand prize winners is Lovelyn San Buenaventura of Dasmariñas, Cavite, an accountant and single mother. Working night shifts while raising her seven-year-old son and helping care for her father, Lovelyn said the prize will allow her family to redirect resources toward more important household needs while remaining connected for work, school, and entertainment.

As a K-pop fan, Lovelyn also shared how crucial a strong and reliable internet connection is in supporting her passion projects, online interests, and friendships. 

“Nakaka-form ka ng friendship over the internet dahil sa hobby mo, and every day nag-uusap kami sa internet tungkol sa K-pop activities namin. Kaya super kailangan talaga siya (internet) for social life,” she shared. 

For Michael Montepalco of Bacnotan, La Union, winning Free Fiber Broadband for Life came as an unexpected blessing. As a real estate agent, reliable internet plays a crucial role in his daily work—from communicating with clients to sending documents and managing transactions. Beyond work, Michael also serves as a keyboardist in his church's music ministry, often using online resources to learn new songs and prepare for worship services.

"Unang una nagpapasalamat ako sa Panginoon, kasi lahat naman ng bagay ina-allow ni Lord. So isa ako sa nabiyayaan na ginamit Nya ang PLDT upang ako’y ma-bless, na maging isa sa mga nanalo sa promo," he said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and looking forward to sharing the good news with his church community.

Meanwhile, Pasig City resident Mark Quin Palu-ay, was equally surprised when he learned that his family had won free internet for life. His wife had joined the promo on behalf of their household, and it took several confirmation messages before the news fully sank in.

Their PLDT Home Fiber connection plays an important role in their everyday routines, particularly for their four-year-old child who regularly watches educational content online and is preparing to start school. For Mark, the prize means greater financial flexibility for the family and more opportunities to invest in experiences and moments that matter most.

 “Imbes na iisipin mo may babayaran ka pa na bills, mapupunta na sa ibang bagay, sa pagkain, sa bonding-bonding namin, at sa kuryente. Isipin mo yung mga nangyayari ngayon, tapos bigla ka pang suswertehin ng ganito. Kaya sobrang thankful ko talaga,” Mark said. 

Reflecting on the stories of the winners, John Y. Palanca, PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business, shared that the Broadband Free Forever program is ultimately about recognizing the aspirations of the families that PLDT Home serves.

“More than just a promo, the Broadband Free Forever (BFF) program is a celebration of the stories, journeys, and aspirations of every family that we serve. This is our way of saying thank you to our customers who allow us to be their trusted partner and who continue to inspire us to deliver better digital experiences for their homes,” Palanca said. 

The stories of Lovelyn, Michael, and Mark represent countless Filipino families whose daily lives are powered by reliable connectivity that enables them to earn a living, study, nurture relationships, and create meaningful moments at home.

The BFF promo reflects PLDT Home’s continuing commitment to delivering meaningful experiences that go beyond connectivity. By enabling digital access, PLDT Home supports more inclusive and sustainable progress for Filipino families as they pursue progress and better lives.

Metrobank and Mastercard Bring Sustainability to Everyday Spending

 Metrobank joins Mastercard in its Priceless Causes initiative, turning everyday transactions into meaningful environmental action.

In celebration of Philippine Environment Month this June 2026, Metrobank debit and credit Mastercard cardholders can directly contribute to reforestation efforts with their daily purchases. For every PHP 2,000 spend using their Metrobank Mastercard on June 30, one tree will be planted on their behalf. 

 

The initiative extends beyond Philippine Environment Month, allowing customers to continue making an impact through their regular spending. From June 30 to December 31, 2026, Mastercard credit cardholders can also convert their rewards points into environmental contributions, every 8,000 points earned can be redeemed to plant four trees via the Metrobank App and SMS.

All tree-planting efforts are managed and guided by Conservation International, a global nonprofit organization focused on improving lives through cutting-edge science, innovative policy, and global reach. 

 

“This partnership lets everyday spending do something more meaningful. It’s our way of helping customers not just manage their finances, but also support causes that matter, making impact part of daily life,” said Gail Male, Head of Metrobank Credit Cards, Personal Loans and Digital Channels Group 

 

“We are happy to partner with Metrobank and enable their clients to make a positive impact on the environment. Together with Metrobank, we are turning everyday purchases into opportunities to support reforestation and create lasting impact,” said Jason Crasto, Mastercard Country Manager. 

 

Priceless Causes by Mastercard connects consumers, financial institutions, and organizations in collective action toward social and environmental goals. Through this collaboration, Metrobank customers are given an easy and seamless way to take part in sustainability efforts without needing to change their usual spending habits. 

 

By integrating purpose into everyday transactions, Metrobank continues to bring its promise of being a trusted partner to life, helping customers make decisions that not only support their financial well-being, but also contribute to a more sustainable future. 

 

Cardholders can participate simply by using their Metrobank debit or credit card Mastercard for their daily purchases or by redeeming their points through the Metrobank App. 

 

For more information on how to participate, visit Metrobank’s official website or follow its social media channels.  

 

HONOR 600 Series Redefines What Users Expect from a Smartphone

 In a market flooded with devices pushing artificial intelligence as their biggest selling point, Global AI device ecosystem company HONOR Philippines is taking a different approach with its latest release. While the HONOR 600 boasts cutting-edge AI capabilities, the device represents something much bigger — a complete smartphone experience designed to elevate everyday life of Filipinos.

Since its launch, the HONOR 600 Series has generated massive buzz among consumers, creators, and tech enthusiasts, thanks to its revolutionary AI features. But beyond the headlines surrounding AI Image-to-Video generation and intelligent editing tools lies a smartphone engineered to excel in every aspect that matters.

 

"Complementing its top-notch AI Image To Video 2.0 and other AI tech is a vibrant display designed for immersive viewing, making content consumption, gaming, and productivity more enjoyable. Backed by a long-lasting battery and fast-charging technology, the HONOR 600 Series keeps up with today's fast-paced lifestyle without compromise," said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

More than just HONOR AI

Underpinning the entire experience, the HONOR 600 runs on the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 with 27% CPU and 30% GPU gains for powerful gaming and fluid daily performance. The HONOR 600 Pro steps up to the Snapdragon 8 Elite on 3nm process technology, achieving 45% CPU and 44% GPU improvements — true flagship-level responsiveness across demanding applications and multitasking.

A comprehensive suite of AI night algorithms enhanced by AI Cloud Enhancement ties the system together: AI Enhanced Night Photography across 0.6–10x zoom, AI Enhanced Night Portrait with multi-form bokeh effects (Pro), AI Super Zoom 2.0 with expanded activation range, and SuperMoon 2.0 on the Pro model for dramatic lunar compositions with foreground clarity.

Within this slim profile, industry-leading stacking technology enables a 7,000mAh battery — the largest battery in Number Series history — without adding thickness or weight over the previous generation. An AI Battery Scheduling Engine dynamically optimizes power distribution across communication, processing, and touch response, enabling genuine two-day endurance under demanding use.

Designed to suit different needs and budgets, the HONOR 600 5G is offered at Php 28,999 (8GB+256GB), Php 32,999 (12GB+256GB), and Php 37,999 (12GB+512GB), while the flagship HONOR 600 Pro 5G with 12GB+512GB storage retails for Php 49,999.

Run to any HONOR Experience and Partner Store or online via Lazada (https://bit.ly/Laz_H600_PR), Shopee (https://bit.ly/Shop_X9d_Media) or TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/TikTok_H600_PR).

For more exciting announcements, visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com, and follow HONOR Philippines on Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

Cassava Is No Longer Just a Staple—It's Becoming a Source of Better Health and Livelihood

 

Wibowo Nugroho engaging in a brand consultation

Cassava has shaped Southeast Asia's agricultural history for centuries. It became a vital crop because of its ability to thrive in poor soils and withstand drought. In countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia, cassava served as a reliable food source during periods of scarcity before evolving into an important commodity for the food, feed, starch, and biofuel industries. Today, its resilience and versatility are giving the crop new relevance beyond food security, including meeting Asia’s growing demand for healthier and more inclusive dietary options.

Rising cases of gluten intolerance, sugar sensitivity, and broader consumer interest in wellness have fueled this shift. Reflecting this trend, the Asia-Pacific gluten-free products market is projected to reach USD 3.2 billion by 2030. Yet many of these products remain dominated by large-scale manufacturers and are often inaccessible to lower-income consumers.

In the Philippines, cassava remains both an economic and cultural staple. The industry is valued at ₱97,623 per hectare, with average yields reaching 11,834 kilograms. The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao accounts for the country's largest cassava-growing area at about 100,000 hectares, producing 218.99 thousand metric tons annually. Cassava is also deeply embedded in Filipino cuisine through dishes such as cassava cake, pichi-pichi, and ginataang cassava. Despite this significance, the Department of Trade and Industry continues to classify cassava as a marginal commodity under its Revealed Comparative Advantage matrix, prompting calls from the National Academy of Science and Technology for stronger industry support. 

Like the Philippines, Indonesia has seen cassava evolve beyond its role as a survival food. In Siak, Riau, this transformation is embodied by Telarasa, which has turned the crop into a platform for nutrition, innovation, and community-based enterprise.

From Food Anxiety and a Child's Needs to the Birth of Telarasa

For Wibowo Nugroho (33), founder of Telarasa, the business began not with commercial ambition but with a personal story. His child's sensitivities to gluten and sugar limit available food options. He soon discovered that many families in Siak faced similar concerns, including parents of children with ADHD and other conditions requiring carefully controlled diets.

“Initially, this was truly for our own family. Our child needed safe food, and it turned out many parents nearby shared the same anxiety,” said Wibowo.

At the same time, he noticed an untapped local resource. Many households in Siak grow cassava on 10-20 sqm plots of land, with around 90% of production considered pesticide-free. Yet without a reliable market, much of the harvest went unused and stopped at the garden gate. 

“The cassava was planted, but eventually left in the garden. Residents were confused about where to sell it,” he said.

What began as experiments in a home kitchen evolved into value-added cassava products. In small-scale research in a home kitchen, cassava was processed into nuggets and later into modified cassava flour (Mocaf) as a wheat substitute. This flour became the foundation for various Telarasa products, including Lekit Lomek, a high-protein snack made from Bombay Duckfish, or locally known as Lomek (Harpodon nehereus), which is abundant in the Indo-West Pacific. 

Telarasa’s approach has benefited local fishermen by increasing demand for lomek fish, which initially had low market demand due to their high water content. By processing it into mocaf-based lekit lomek, the fish gains new market value and becomes part of a healthy food solution. Apart from the Lekit Lomek. Telarasa innovation also helps other entrepreneurs in Siak, as it can serve as a base for healthier snacks, such as low-sugar, palm sugar-based cookies. 

“Cassava is absorbed directly from nearby farmers according to production capacity. Currently, Telarasa processes about 30 to 60 kilograms of cassava per production cycle, at least four times a month, or about 240 kilograms per month. Production is done gradually to match market absorption without overtaxing the farmers,” he added.

Skelas Incubation, Business Refinement, and Strengthening the Production Chain

Telarasa entered a new stage of development after joining the Skelas incubation program through the Siak Sustainable Business Incubation (KUBISA) and the Siak Innovation Challenge. Over six months, the enterprise received mentoring in product development, production efficiency, food safety, packaging, marketing, and financial management, while also gaining access to business-matching opportunities, training, and potential funding.

“In incubation, we see many local businesses with great potential, but they often stumble during the process. That is where we step in, helping to refine things from upstream to downstream,” explained Cerli, a representative from Skelas.

The program also helped Telarasa strengthen its sustainability practices by adopting a zero-waste approach: cassava peels and cores are composted; leaves are sold, consumed, or used as animal feed; stems are replanted; and flour residue is repurposed as chicken feed. They also expanded their network of partner kitchens and communities, including Dapur Mempura, which uses Telarasaa’s mocaf flour.

“We learned that building a food business is not just about taste, but also consistency, quality, and trust,” Wibowo said. 

Local Economic Impact and Restorative Economy Practice

Telarasa currently modifies around 200 to 250 kilograms of cassava each month into cassava flour (mocaf). Its flagship product, lekit lomek, is produced in batches and typically sells out within three to four days. The growth has translated into higher earnings, with monthly income rising from less than 1 million IDR to around 1.5 to 2 million IDR (around 3,500 to 7,000 PHP) over the past two months.

“A business like this proves that economic recovery can go hand-in-hand with environmental restoration and the strengthening of local communities,” Cerli said. 

The benefits extend beyond the enterprise itself, providing a steady market for cassava farmers and lomek fishers, while production waste is repurposed into compost and animal feed.

Wibowo views the business as a long-term effort to strengthen local livelihoods. “Our hope is simple. This business can grow, absorb more cassava and local seafood, create jobs, and remain committed to health and the environment. If those things can walk together, it means we are on the right track,” he said. 

More than a food business, Telarasa illustrates how local commodities, community livelihoods, and sustainable practices can be connected into a value chain that benefits both people and the environment.