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Tuesday, May 20, 2025

4 Ways AI Empowers Mompreneurs to Achieve Better Work-Life Balance

 What if you could build a thriving business without missing out on precious family moments? The outdated notion that success demands sacrificing family time is being rewritten by a powerful force: technology. Today, innovative tools are empowering mompreneurs to seamlessly integrate their professional dreams with their personal lives. Success doesn't have to come at the expense of family. 

 

Jenielyn Sicabalo-Nieva, the driving force behind the blossoming MP Nieva's Flower Company, shares how she  cultivates more precious moments with her family even as her stunning floral arrangements flourish. “We’re now better at making content for social media to promote the business,” she says. “We respond to customers’ inquiries quicker and more efficiently, plus we can offer fresh and innovative floral designs faster to customers.”

 

You might think that Jenielyn has hired a whole new team to do content creation, marketing, and day-to-day operations—but no, the reality is quite different. Jenielyn and other members of Madiskarte Moms PH gained these enhanced capabilities through Gemini Academy, an AI training program held on March 5. This initiative, "Ayan na! AI na!," was supported by PLDT Home in collaboration with Google Philippines and was launched during Women’s Month in March. Beyond providing an efficient infrastructure that allows mompreneurs to scale up their businesses and reach wider markets, PLDT Home empowers them through digital literacy programs and workshops with successful entrepreneurs who started small.  

 

Aside from Mommy Jenielyn’s story, the practical AI knowledge gained from Gemini Academy is now manifesting in the lives of other Madiskarte Moms in these significant ways:

Jenielyn Sicabalo-Nieva of MP Nieva Flowers

 

1. Writing captions that convert to sales

“AI helps me to write convincing captions on social media, which is important to convert views to sales since we don't have a physical store yet,” says Lea Daras, who founded and runs Jathniel's Specialty and The FloraCraft Project, a food business and a customized, dried flower business, respectively.

 

Xavier&Xandrei’s Melissa Moscoso agrees. “Using AI to write content about my sustainable and eco-friendly products has been a game-changer. With Gemini’s assistance, I can quickly generate engaging and relevant captions that resonate with my audience. It also enabled me to bring my ideas to life by creating images that perfectly capture my vision.”

 

 

Melissa adds that thanks to the workshop, she learned how to refine her prompt-making skills to generate “precisely the kind of content I need, saving me time and effort in the long run.”

 

Abby Cruz’s Momi Bigbig Kitchen food business has gotten more sales via their online sellers with the help of Gemini, which creates promotional materials to use in selling. “Gemini really helped our business grow bigger online, and I’m looking forward to what more it can do for the business.”

 

2. Analyzing business data

AI is not only for content creation, it can also be used to analyze business data and suggest innovative ways to expand your market, product offering, and teach you how to optimize operations. AI can help predict future trends based on past sales and customer behavior, which can help entrepreneurs keep a tight inventory and streamline operations. It can also quickly identify marketing strategies that engage your audience — when, where, and which platforms — that can convert views to sales. In short, AI processes your data and suggests actionable insights.        

Ricca Del Rosario of HTP Clothing

 

3. Scheduling, saving time 

Let's be real, it sounds basic, but it's a game-changer: remembering what actually needs to be done! How many times have you almost missed something important — a kid's event, a crucial deadline — because it just vanished from your mental to-do list? With everything mompreneurs have on their plates, AI can step in as that reliable friend who can help keep track of everything. 

 

You can connect Gemini to your Google account and ask it to calendar those business meetings right alongside the kids' recitals and nudge you about that supermarket run or the content you promised to post. Think of it as your memory, amplified!

 

BC Fragrance founder Bernadette Lim says, “Gemini has become my virtual partner, research assistant, marketing team, and creative writer. It helps me maximize my schedule: what takes me a long time to do, it does quickly, like writing descriptions for my scents or  breaking down complex regulatory information. It has helped me move faster and smarter, maximizing my limited time at work since I'm also hands-on with my daughter, and it keeps me informed on what I need to do for the business and for my family .”


 

4. Planning meal plans and grocery lists

Ever stare blankly into the fridge, wondering what to make for dinner again? Or maybe you're trying to get healthier meals on the table for the kids or stick to a food budget? AI can be your new kitchen whiz! It can suggest easy recipes tailored to your needs. Even cooler, you can just tell it what ingredients you've already got. It'll find recipes you can make. This little bit of kitchen magic frees up so much time for mompreneurs, meaning more quality moments with the family. And when kids see their moms rocking their businesses and being there for them, it's seriously inspiring.

 

“Balancing many responsibilities is a reality for mompreneurs. Google's generative AI tools, such as Gemini, are designed to reclaim valuable time. With Gemini acting as a powerful assistant, we hope to empower more people to achieve greater efficiency, both personally and professionally,” said Prep Palacios, Head of Industry at Google Philippines.

 

Madiskarte Moms have truly found a new BFF and business partner in Gemini. These mompreneurs and countless Filipino women are inspiring the next generation — daughters, nieces, young dreamers watching from the sidelines — to believe they can do it too. Because when women see other women thriving, they start visualizing their own version of success.

 

Try out Google Gemini today and see how it can help you be more efficient and achieve work-life balance! Then join the country’s biggest network of mompreneurs, be inspired by their stories, and find the support you need on your journey to financial freedom.

From iTunes to TikTok: David Licauco’s “I Think I Love You” Captures Hearts Everywhere


There is no stopping David Licauco. Apart from being a popular actor, in-demand endorser, and successful entrepreneur, he is now also a recording artist signed under Universal Records, who just released the song “I Think I Love You.”


Written by Luke April Isnani and Ivo Impreso, “I Think I Love You” is a catchy and upbeat song about realizing that you’re developing strong emotions for someone — something that a lot of people can relate to. 





Last May 15, a few minutes before the drop of his single, David went live on his TikTok account for a single salubong while he was in Lujo Bar in Poblacion. At the strike of midnight, he celebrated with his fans online and was surprised when the DJ at Lujo suddenly played “I Think I Love You.”


Before the song was even released, it was actually featured in Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition. David entered Bahay ni Kuya as a Houseguest and after sharing with Kuya what his song is about, David was told that the Housemates would be divided into two groups — Team Kapamilya and Team Kapuso — and tasked to come up with a dance choreography for “I Think I Love You.”


Talented Will Ashley led Team Kapuso, crafting choreography and formations for his group. Esnyr, on the other hand, led Team Kapamilya; he recognized that their group didn’t have high-level dancers, so they focused on delivering a fun and creative number inspired by high school performances and Christmas party presentations.


In the end, David chose Team Kapamilya as the winner, praising their synchronized and well-thought-out routine. David rewarded them with lollipops, something that the Housemates appreciated and enjoyed. 


“I Think I Love You” is currently getting a lot of love online. On the day of its release, it was number five on the Top Songs list of iTunes Philippines, making it the only OPM song to make it to the top 5.


On TikTok, several supporters are using the audio for fan-made edits of David and his onscreen partner Barbie Forteza. A lot of people have also been dancing to it and making their own choreography for it, including TikToker Miko Yanson, who is famous for coming up with dance choreos for a lot of trending songs online.

David releasing “I Think I Love You” was something a lot of people didn’t expect, but it is definitely a pleasant surprise especially for his fans. During his PBB guesting, David shared: “I really just wanted to try everything — sa showbiz, sa buhay. One of those is releasing a song; yun na nga po yung ‘I Think I Love You’ — para po sa mga taong may gusto pero di pa niya masabi.”


With the good reception to “I Think I Love You,” we won’t be surprised if and when David releases another song.


Lionsgate Play Now Streaming on Cignal Super App, Ushering in a New Era of Entertainment in the Philippines

 The highly anticipated Cignal Super has finally arrived in the Philippines, bringing with it an exciting evolution in video on demand streaming. For the first time, Filipinos can enjoy an all-in-one platform that brings together a variety of sought after streaming options under one roof. But perhaps the most exciting addition? Lionsgate Play is now part of the Cignal Super line up! Starting today, the platform brings Lionsgate Play’s renowned catalog of action-packed blockbusters, iconic franchises, award winning films, acclaimed series, and exclusive access to prestigious award shows, all curated for viewers who crave premium, world class entertainment. 

Through this groundbreaking partnership, Lionsgate Play and Cignal are set to redefine what entertainment means for Filipino audiences. From Hollywood hits to must watch originals, it’s everything you love, all in one place. 

A world-class catalog at your fingertips  

Known for its premium content globally, Lionsgate Play now brings its expansive library straight to screens across the Philippines via Cignal Super.  Subscribers can dive into its wide array of Hollywood favourites, including blockbuster franchises John Wick, The Hunger Games, and Twilight; critically acclaimed series including Killing Eve, Mr. Robot, and Mad Men; and pulse pounding action hits like Gangs of London and Paris Has Fallen

Additionally, the partnership also unlocks exclusive, live access to star-studded award nights like the Emmy’s, Golden Globes and BAFTA Awards, streaming directly to your screens. From iconic stories to red carpet moments, world class entertainment has never been this accessible. 

Lionsgate Play Philippines’ country manager Cecilia Marino shared “We’re pleased to join forces with Cignal Super to make Lionsgate Play’s unique content more accessible than ever in the Philippines. As Cignal evolves into a true multimedia powerhouse, this collaboration marks a key step in Lionsgate Play’s mission to expand our footprint and bring bold, edgy, and compelling global content to Filipino audiences—through a single, seamless platform.”

Entertainment meets convenience

Cignal Super transforms how Filipinos experience entertainment, bringing content from Lionsgate Play and other streaming services together in one seamless platform. With a single login, you’re instantly connected to riveting TV shows and blockbuster movies, without the hassle of managing multiple accounts. Say goodbye to endlessly switching between apps and hello to uninterrupted streaming, all in one place.

Whether you’re in the mood for edge-of-your-seat thrillers, heartfelt dramas, action-packed adventures, or even a live sports game, the app offers a diverse range of stories to suit every taste and mood. Its flexibility lets you stream whatever you want, whenever and wherever you are, ensuring entertainment is always at your fingertips.

“By partnering with Lionsgate Play and other streaming services, we’ve brought together an exceptional lineup of world-class content into one seamless platform, making quality entertainment more accessible than ever before,” says Gerard Milan, Chief Revenue Office of Cignal. “This launch marks a significant milestone in our commitment to innovation and delivering unmatched value for our subscribers.”

Experience it first  

Cignal and Lionsgate Play are inviting everyone to explore this exciting new era in entertainment. Whether you’re revisiting iconic franchises or discovering fresh stories, the Cignal Super App ensures every viewing moment is time well spent.  

You can now sign up for Cignal Super via the official website, https://cignalsuper.com.  

The service comes with two flexible plans. The Premium+ Plan, priced at ₱799 per month, gives full access to all streaming services on the platform, while the Premium Plan, at ₱499 per month, provides a curated lineup, perfect for those seeking variety at a great value. 

As a special launch offer, new users can enjoy Premium+ for just ₱399 per month and Premium for ₱249 per month until May 31, 2025.

Don’t wait—download Cignal Super today on Google Play or the App Store and see how Lionsgate Play can transform your entertainment experience. 


Mr. Hat Gulaman Turns Every Moment Into a Celebration


Summer 2025 — For generations, the humble gulaman has been a staple of Filipino celebrations. It’s there in every colorful fiesta, every lively birthday party, every unforgettable Christmas reunion. Gulaman has always been a sweet symbol of togetherness — reserved for special moments that bring families and friends closer.

 

But today, with busy lifestyles and changing needs, Filipinos are looking for treats that offer not just nostalgia, but also convenience and versatility. 

Thankfully Mr. Hat Gulaman has made it easy for gulaman to move from a “special occasion-only” favorite to an everyday indulgence that fits seamlessly into modern life.


Mr. Hat Gulaman offers a wide variety of flavored and unflavored jelly powders that are quick to prepare, easy to customize, and can satisfy cravings . Whether you're planning a big event or simply want a sweet treat on an ordinary afternoon, Mr. Hat Gulaman is your reliable companion in the kitchen.

 

“Families no longer have to wait for a fiesta, birthday, reunion or any special occasion to enjoy gulaman," says Randell Sales, Brand Specialist of Seanluc, Inc. "Now, with the convenience, affordability, and flexibility of Mr. Hat Gulaman, it can help make any day special.”

Crafted from premium natural seaweed extract, Mr. Hat Gulaman’s jelly products are known for their  texture — firm yet tender — and rich flavors that kids and adults alike will love. With seven flavored and six unflavored varieties, there’s a Mr. Hat Gulaman option ready to match your mood, your occasion, or your creative culinary idea.


From Festive to Delightful Everyday Moments

The beauty of Mr. Hat Gulaman is in its versatility. Beyond the classic birthday party buko pandan or fiesta fruit salad, you can now enjoy delicious gulaman recipes even for casual hangouts, solo meriendas, or cozy family dinners.

Here are just a few easy recipes you can try:

 

        Coconut Gulaman Coolers – A refreshing take on the Filipino favorite, just right for cooling down under the summer sun.

        Summer Mango Gulaman – Luscious mango meets silky gulaman in a tropical dessert ideal for poolside parties.

        Almond Lychee Jelly – A delightfully chilled and refreshing treat to stay cool on a hot day.

        Vanilla Milkshake with Gulaman – A rich, dreamy beverage to sweeten up slow afternoons.

 

Each of these recipes can be made in under an hour, requiring just simple ingredients — ideal for busy households or budding entrepreneurs looking to add affordable desserts to their small food businesses.

 

A New Story Unfolds: Check Out for Mr. Hat Gulaman’s Commercial

 

This summer, Mr. Hat Gulaman also launched its newest commercial that captures the spirit of everyday celebration.


The commercial shows the small, precious moments of life with the family: preparing for the first day of school, welcoming the coolness of the rainy season, gearing up for Christmas, or gathering with loved ones. We want Filipinos to realize that whether it's a big or small moment, Mr. Hat Gulaman can make it special as they can enjoy exciting recipes or give a unique twist to well-loved classics anytime they want to .  You can watch the full video here: 
Mr. Hat Gulaman (https://www.facebook.com/mrhatgulaman/videos/1068907178486329)

 

Every moment that passes can be made delightful with the flavors and colors of Mr. Hat Gulaman! Whatever the season, whatever the reason, make it special - #NasaHatKoYan. 

 

Bell-Kenz Pharma and TV5’s Alagang Kapatid Unite to Advance Healthcare Support for Filipinos


Bell-Kenz Pharma, Inc recently launched a multi-pronged collaboration with TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation aimed at augmenting the medical and healthcare initiatives for the vulnerable sectors of the society.

 

Staying true to its mission of making Filipino lives better, Bell-Kenz Pharma also brings to the Alagang Kapatid program its health information segment, “Real Talk with Dok.”  The health information online advocacy conceptualized and started by Barangay Bell-Kenz, Real Talk with Dok features timely and relevant health topics with trusted and reliable medical experts.


 

Dr. James Cayetano, Director of Bell-Kenz is optimistic about the results of the collaboration with TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation.  “We at Bell-Kenz Pharma are grateful for the opportunity to extend our help to the underserved communities. It is through this partnership that we strive to make lives better for our kababayans,” he said.

 

“This partnership with TV5 Alagang Kapatid bolsters the initiatives of Bell-Kenz Pharma    

to bridge gaps in healthcare by providing medical information that are relevant in improving the lives of Filipinos,” says Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding + PR Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma.

 

 

Together with Media5 Chief Operating Officer, Mr.Dino Laurena, Ms. Menchie Silvestre, 

Executive Director of Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc., expresses her gratitude for the

support of Bell-Kenz Pharma. 

 

“This is not a simple partnership, but a life saving partnership for the people who ask for medical help from Alagang Kapatid Foundation. Bell-Kenz Pharma and Alagang Kapatid Foundation bridge the resources for the people who need to be alive today. For that we are very grateful to Bell-Kenz Pharma.”

 

Bell-Kenz Pharma, Inc and Alagang Kapatid Foundation, stronger together in making

lives better for the Filipinos. For more information about Bell-Kenz Pharma,

visit https://www.bell-kenz.net, YouTube account @Bell-KenzPharma, and                 Tiktokbellkenzpharma.

L’Oréal Launches 2025 Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program in the Philippines

 L’Oréal has officially launched the 2025 Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program in the Philippines, as part of its regional rollout across the South Asia Pacific, Middle East, and North Africa (SAPMENA) zone. The program offers startups the opportunity to collaborate with L’Oréal through a commercial pilot with one of its 37 international brands, gain potential exposure in 35 markets within SAPMENA, and participate in a year-long mentorship program with senior executives from L’Oréal and its program partners. 

As the largest Beauty Tech open innovation competition of its kind in the region, the program is expanding in 2025 to include Australia and New Zealand. Participating startups will address one of five challenge themes: Consumer Experience, Content & Media, New Commerce, Tech for Good, and the newly introduced Science for Beauty. 

 

With its dynamic startup ecosystem and tech-savvy consumers, SAPMENA has the potential to drive beauty innovation. The Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program enables us to support and collaborate with startups to accelerate innovation and enhance the beauty experience in the region,” said Vismay Sharma, President of L’Oréal SAPMENA Zone.  

 

A Growing Beauty and Tech Landscape in the Philippines 

 

The Philippine beauty industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by a digitally engaged population and increasing demand for personalized beauty experiences. According to Statista, the Beauty & Personal Care market in the Philippines is projected to generate approximately US$6.55 billion or around PHP 327.5 billion in revenue by 2025, with e-commerce expected to account for 40% of total sales. 

 

The country's tech ecosystem is equally dynamic, with over 1,000 active startups and an expanding digital economy expected to hit USD 35 billion by 2025, according to Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company. With Filipino consumers spending an average of four hours daily on social media and embracing online shopping, there is a growing appetite for tech-driven beauty innovations. 

 

L’Oréal Philippines Champions Local Beauty Tech Innovations 

 

L’Oréal Philippines is driving local innovation by expanding the Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program. As digital advancements reshape consumer behavior, the initiative empowers startups to develop tech-driven beauty solutions, strengthening the country’s role in the industry. 

 

“The Philippines has a young, digital-first consumer base that is shaping the future of beauty. Through the Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program, we aim to empower Filipino startups to develop groundbreaking solutions that merge beauty and technology. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to supporting local innovation and positioning the Philippines as a key player in beauty tech,” said Yassine Bakkari, Managing Director of L’Oréal Philippines. 

 

With SAPMENA representing 40% of the world’s population and over 60% of its young consumers shopping online weekly, the region presents massive opportunities for startups. Specifically, the Philippines has one of the highest social media engagement rates globally, making it a strategic market for beauty innovation. 

 

Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program: Empowering Filipino Startups 

 

L’Oréal’s Big Bang Beauty Tech Innovation Program invites Filipino startups to develop groundbreaking Beauty Tech solutions across five challenge themes. The competition aims to foster local innovation and position the Philippines as a leader in beauty technology. 

 

The regional semi-finals will take place online in August and September 2025, leading up to the SAPMENA Grand Finale in Singapore on November 5, 2025. A distinguished panel of judges, including senior executives from L’Oréal and its program partners, will evaluate the entries. 

 

The top three winners will receive a L’Oréal-funded commercial pilot opportunity and a year-long mentorship program with industry leaders. Previous program partners have included Accenture, Google, and Meta. 

 

Successful startups may also gain opportunities to collaborate with L’Oréal on a global scale, tapping into its extensive network of partners and market insights. 

 

 

Key Dates:  

 

• Submission Deadline: May 30, 2025 
• Regional Semi-Finals (Online): August – September 2025 
Middle East 
India 
Southeast Asia (including the Philippines) 
Australia and New Zealand 
• SAPMENA Grand Finale (Singapore, In-Person): November 5, 2025 
• Filipino startups passionate about shaping the future of beauty are encouraged to apply before the submission deadline. To learn more and apply, visit https://bigbang.lorealsapmena.com/

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