Jojo Lastimosa Comes Home as Jolas Cup Returns to Cagayan de Oro

The Philippines continues to produce world-class basketball talent – but as PBA legend and current TNT Tropang 5G team manager Jojo Lastimosa has long believed, talent alone isn’t enough without opportunity. For young athletes, sports can open doors – but only when the right support systems are in place. This is where connectivity, community, and committed partners like PLDT Home play a crucial role.

For love of the game, PLDT Home and TNT Tropang 5G bring fans closer to the action. Basketball legend Jojo Lastimosa and stars Poy Erram, Rey Nambatac, and Glenn Khobuntin unite on stage with the lucky winners of their hand-signed TNT jerseys.

 

 

Since launching the Jolas Cup in 2004, Lastimosa has championed grassroots basketball as a way to empower the youth. In 2026, that mission was strengthened  by PLDT Home’s support, as the tournament returned to Cagayan de Oro – bringing not just competition but also access, visibility, and opportunity for the next generation.

 

Kicked off last April 22 at the Xavier Ateneo Sports Centre, Jolas Cup 2026 gathered top teams from schools and barangays across the city, transforming the venue into a dynamic space where talent met opportunity. The tournament aimed to bring together young athletes from Cagayan de Oro and nearby areas, competing in six divisions: 12U, 14U, 16U, 18U, 22U men’s, and 22U women’s. It concludes on May 16 with the championship games of all six divisions.

 

PLDT Home Fiber was among the brands powering the tournament opening ceremonies, as players and attendees stayed connected throughout the event – from real-time updates to digital engagement that extended the reach of the tournament beyond the court.

 

The opening ceremonies were led by Lastimosa, alongside fellow TNT Tropang 5G players who share roots in Mindanao, including Poy Erram, Rey Nambatac, and Glenn Khobuntin. Their presence reinforced the importance of giving back – made even more impactful through platforms like the Jolas Cup supported by partners who  share the same vision.

 

“Malipayon gyud ko nga nakabalik ko diri sa Cagayan de Oro aron maghatag og oportunidad sa mga batan-on. Mao ni ang sinugdanan sa daghan kaayo’ng damgo (I’m truly happy to be back in Cagayan de Oro to give young players opportunities. This is where many dreams begin),” said Lastimosa.

TNT Tropang 5G players join the Jolas Cup opening in Cagayan de Oro, showing support for young athletes and championing opportunities for the next generation of hoopers.

 

To help kickstart the young athletes with their dreams, PLDT Home Fiber shall award all champion teams with a Fiber Plan 1699 for one year.

 

“We want to ensure they will experience meaningful connections even off the court,” Lastimosa said.

Local fans share a lighthearted moment with PBA legend Jojo Lastimosa during the PLDT Home Fiber Fastbreak event.

 

Beyond the games, PLDT Home brought the tournament experience closer to the community through branded activations, including interactive booths and connectivity zones that allowed fans and families to engage with the event in real time. These initiatives highlighted how reliable internet access plays  an increasingly important role in sports development – whether it’s accessing training content, sharing game highlights, or staying connected to wider opportunities.

For Lastimosa, that connection is essential to building the future of Philippine basketball.

“Importante kaayo nga konektado ang kabatan-onan—dili lang sa internet, kundi sa ilang mga pangandoy ug oportunidad (It’s important for the youth to stay connected—not just to the internet, but to their dreams and opportunities),” he said.

 

Players echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how meaningful it is to return home and inspire the next generation – now with stronger platforms and support systems behind them.

 

TNT Tropang 5G stars Rey Nambatac, Poy Erram, and Glenn Khobuntin share hands-on tips and mentorship with Cagayan de Oro's promising young players

 

By supporting initiatives like the Jolas Cup, PLDT Home continues to go beyond providing connectivity – actively supporting communities, enabling dreams, and helping young dreamers stay connected to what matters most starting from the home.

 

“By bridging passion and opportunity, the brand plays a vital role in shaping not just better players, but stronger futures,” said PLDT Home First Vice President for Acquisition Marketing Patrick S. Tang. “No matter where you are in the Philippines and whatever passion you pursue, we’re here for you. Count on our reliable connectivity to give you stronger, more meaningful connections as you start your dreams right at home.”

 

From sports to school work and more, fire up your family’s passion at home with fast and reliable internet connectivity by PLDT Home Fiber. Visit pldthome.com to know more about these amazing Fiber deals available for Plan 999 and up.

 

Apply for Fiber Unli All 1399 from May 1 to May 31, 2026 and enjoy free installation (save P3,600), free speedboost up to 200 Mbps, unli entertainment on Cignal, and a chance to win free Fiber Broadband for Life! Apply until June 30, 2026 to avail up to P41,000 off on Samsung TVs and other devices as an exclusive offer.

Watsons Makes Women’s Everyday Essentials More Accessible Than Ever

 For many Filipinas, no two days are ever the same. Mornings can begin with getting the kids ready for school, answering early work messages, or squeezing in a quiet moment before the day picks up pace. In between responsibilities and routines, time for oneself often comes in small, intentional pockets, moments that may seem simple, but matter deeply.

These everyday choices, whether it’s prioritizing hygiene, taking care of one’s body, or indulging in a quick self-care ritual, are how women continue to show up, not just for others, but for themselves.

 

Understanding these realities, leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer Watsons supports women by making everyday care more accessible and seamless. Through its nationwide network of stores and easy-to-use app, Watsons brings together essential products that fit naturally into women’s routines from hygiene and period care to beauty, oral care, and overall wellness.

 

In a fast-paced setting where convenience matters, Watsons makes it easier to stay on top of daily needs. With services like Click & Collect and Home Delivery Express, essentials are always within reach, whether it’s a last-minute restock after a long day or a quick online order in between tasks. With just a few taps on the Watsons app, women can take one more thing off their to-do list and move through their day with ease.

 

Beyond accessibility, Watsons also ensures that care evolves with every woman. From young adults building their routines, to working professionals balancing multiple roles, to those focusing on long-term wellness, Watsons provides support at every life stage. In-store beauty advisors and Watsons Pharmacists are also readily available to offer guidance, helping customers make informed choices that suit their individual needs.

 

From trusted essentials like Betadine, Sofy, PH Care, and Kotex, to self-care and beauty favorites such as Luxe Organix and Watsons Brand, each product becomes part of a routine that keeps women feeling confident and cared for. Even everyday wellness, from oral care with Dentiste, Fresh, and Perfect Smile becomes easier to maintain, turning small habits into meaningful acts of self-care.

 

Watsons also makes everyday care more rewarding through the Watsons Club, where members get access to exclusive offers, points, and perks that turn routine purchases into something more valuable. This means a working mom picking up essentials after errands and getting rewarded points she can use for her next restock, or a young professional taking advantage of member deals on skincare and hygiene must-haves she regularly relies on. These small benefits make it easier for women to stay on top of their needs while also feeling like they’re getting more value out of the care they already prioritize.

 

“At Watsons, we believe that every woman deserves access to care that supports her at every stage of life. Whether it’s everyday essentials, personal wellness, or moments of self-care, we are committed to making these needs more accessible, more convenient, and more empowering, so women can continue to show up for themselves and everything they care about,” said Danilo S Chiong, Managing Director of Watsons Philippines.

 

Whatever stage of life you’re in, Watsons is here to make everyday care more seamless for you. From everyday essentials to personal care needs that evolve with you, you can find what you need through Watsons stores nationwide, the Watsons App, or in the way that best fits your routine. With Click & Collect and Home Delivery Express, your daily care needs are always within reach, making it easier for you to prioritize your care, your comfort, and your well-being, every day.

foodpanda Makes Mother’s Day Gifting Easier with Deals for Every “Kahit Ano” Mom

 Ask any Filipino mom what she wants, and chances are she’ll say, “Kahit ano.”

It may sound simple, but it carries a lifetime of putting others first. That is why choosing a gift can feel difficult, not because there are no options, but because “kahitano” never really feels like enough. Sometimes, what moms mean is not that they want anything, but that they trust you to choose something thoughtful, whether it is a favorite meal, a small treat, or simply a moment to rest.

Making those small, thoughtful choices feel more meaningful, foodpanda brings a range of Mother’s Day deals. Until May 10, customers can enjoy up to 30% off bestseller meals from well-loved restaurants such as McDonald’s, Shakey’s, Conti’s, and Caramia, perfect for treating mom to her favorites without overthinking the choice.

Beyond meals, online grocery shoppers can save bestseller items for moms, including everyday essentials like diapers and self-care products, with up to 25% off for non-PRO users and up to 30% off for PRO users—perfect for practical yet thoughtful gifting. For those planning something a little extra, bundle meals, cakes, and even fresh flowers are also available, with a Fresh Flower Sale on pandamart running from May 9 to 11, making it easy to surprise mom with something special at home.

For added convenience, pick-up options are available for those on the go. With the code PICKUP, PRO users can enjoy 10% off while skipping the lines and bringing home mom’s favorites faster. To make celebrations even more rewarding, cashback vouchers are also available from May 8 to 10, with ₱150 cashback for non-PRO users using the code MAMA and ₱300 cashback for PRO users with PROMAMA, both with varying minimum spend requirements.

PRO subscribers can also enjoy added value with delivery perks across categories, including unlimited free delivery capped at ₱49 for food orders, no delivery fee on pandamart with a minimum spend starting at ₱599, and up to ₱69 off delivery fees on select shop orders, making it easier to plan a complete Mother’s Day surprise.

Whether it is a simple meal, a small surprise, or a complete spread for the family, these options make it easier to show up with something meaningful this Mother’s Day, turning “kahit ano” into something she will truly enjoy.

Check out these offers on the foodpanda app and make celebrating mom feel just a little more special.

From “Si Mama Ang Bahala” to “Ako Naman, Ma”: A Mother’s Day Tribute Through Palawan ProtekTODO

 This Mother’s Day, Palawan ProtekTODO highlights the vital role of Filipino mothers as the foundation of their families, carrying both emotional and financial responsibilities with quiet strength. In many households, mothers are the steady force that keeps everything together, ensuring that daily needs are met, budgets are carefully managed, and unexpected challenges are handled with resilience. Despite their constant efforts to ensure security and stability, they often set aside their own protection, prioritizing the needs of their children and the household.

 

As younger Filipinos begin to step into adulthood, many are gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifices their mothers have made over the years. What once felt normal, such as always having food on the table or seeing problems quickly resolved, now takes on a different meaning as they experience the realities of earning, budgeting, and supporting others. This growing awareness is shaping how Gen Z views gratitude, moving them beyond surface-level expressions and toward more thoughtful and intentional ways of giving back, grounded in a deeper appreciation of what their mothers have consistently done for them.

 

Palawan Group Chief Business Development Officer Lisa Castro-Sabado explained that this shift presents an important opportunity for young Filipinos to express their appreciation in a way that reflects long-term care and responsibility: “Filipino mothers have always been our first line of protection, emotionally, financially, and in every aspect of our lives. This Mother’s Day, we encourage the younger generation to go beyond symbolic gifts and choose something more meaningful, something that protects their moms the way they have always protected us.”

 

To support this shift, Palawan ProtekTODO offers simple, affordable microinsurance options designed for everyday Filipinos, especially those just beginning their financial journey. These products are structured to be easy to understand and accessible, making them a practical choice for young earners who want to take a more responsible approach to caring for their families.

 

Family-oriented plans such as Premium Pamilya Mega 400 are designed with moms in mind, reflecting the realities they navigate every day: balancing daily needs, carefully managing budgets, and facing unexpected challenges with strength. Palawan ProtekTODO and Oona Insurance teamed up to offer this new product, providing coverage of up to ₱1 million. It provides year-long protection not only for the insured but also for their loved ones, including accident coverage and financial assistance for dependents. Built to support families through life’s uncertainties, these plans help ensure that loved ones remain financially protected even in difficult moments.

 

ProtekTODO Sales and Marketing Manager Meijhen Maulanin-Santos underscored the value of gifting our loved ones with insurance. While unconventional, she emphasized that financial protection and peace of mind are intangible yet valuable gifts. Reflecting on her own journey, she shared, “I myself am a new mom, but I already somewhat understand the sacrifices and the beauty that come with the role. I know I will do everything for my child, and more than ever, I now want to give back to my own Mom in all ways possible.”

 

With affordable entry points and straightforward processes, they make it easier for young Filipinos to take meaningful action without feeling overwhelmed. Beyond this, there are also other protection options available for health needs, including emergency and critical illness coverage, offering more ways to safeguard what matters most.

 

This Mother’s Day, the message is clear. As roles begin to shift and children gradually take on greater responsibility, there is now a meaningful opportunity to give back in a way that truly matters. Protection becomes a powerful expression of love, allowing young Filipinos to step forward and say, in a more lasting and heartfelt way, from “Si Mama ang bahala” (Mom will take care of it) to “Ako naman, Ma” (It’s my turn, Mom).

 

Give your loved ones protection for life’s unexpected moments. Avail Palawan ProtekTODO anytime, anywhere via the PalawanPay app, Lazada, and Palawan Pawnshop–Palawan Express Pera Padala branches nationwide. 

 

From Screen to Real Life: One Piece Lands in PH Malls with PLDT Home Promo

 The Great Pirate Era isn’t just streaming – it’s landing in real life. In the Philippines, the journey begins at select PLDT stores, complete with an exclusive one month free broadband promo when you apply for Fiber Netflix 1599

GMA actor Vince Maristela (center) joins content creators Klen Cos, Awie De Guzman, Cholo Tolentino, and Prince De Guzman (left to right) set sail as the Straw Hat crew, bringing the world of One Piece to life at the PLDT Store

 

With two successful seasons and a recently confirmed third one, One Piece on Netflix has transcended the screen. What started as a beloved manga and anime has become a global phenomenon, arriving just in time for summer, when the call to adventure feels impossible to ignore. The Great Pirate Era is here, and fans everywhere are answering it.

 

Across the world, One Piece has evolved into an “experience.” At the famed Netflix House Philadelphia, for instance, fans can step inside an escape room where teams of 6-12 race against time to uncover clues, solve puzzles, and find the hidden Devil Fruit through the show’s iconic locations.

 

If you’re dreaming of your own grand escape this summer – stepping onto the Going Merry or testing your mettle against the sea’s most notorious villains without having to fly to the States – you’re in luck. You can do all of that right in any of these real-life One Piece gimmicks and activations which are already making waves around the world.

 

For one, it’s no surprise that the birthplace of the series – Japan – offers the wildest experiences: from the towering life-sized statues in Kumamoto (the creator’s hometown) to the immersive Tokyo One Piece Tower (which long served as a pilgrimage site). Beyond these landmark installations, fans can also find themed cafes and pop-up events in Shibuya as if they’ve just walked into a panel of the manga.

Photo source: Klook

In Australia, the One Piece buzz has reached fever pitch with exclusive screenings and massive fan gatherings. Major cities have seen public installations that celebrate the show’s record-breaking viewership on Netflix. The One Plus Piece Cafe in Melbourne, for one, features a large-scale Tony Tony Chopper installation and series-themed memorabilia.

Photo source: One Plus Piece

 

But if all of that seems daunting – or downright expensive – you don’t need to cross the Red Line to join the adventure. Right here in the Philippines, home to one of the largest One Piece fandoms in the whole world, PLDT Home is transforming its physical stores into an immersive One Pieceexperience. It’s also the only telco in the country to bring this Netflix partnership to life.

 

Fans can head to select PLDT stores to see the world of the Grand Line come to life. For long-time readers of the manga and new fans of the Netflix live-action series alike, these store takeovers offer a chance to celebrate your fandom in real life.

And if you’re not yet a subscriber, you can also score a store and online exclusive deal! Apply for PLDT Fiber Netflix Plan 1599 (or Fiber Unli Plans 1699, 2099, and 2699) from March 15 to May 31, 2026, and set sail with ONE MONTH FREE BROADBAND (applied on your fourth month), a FREE Speed Boost, and FREE Installation with No Cash-Out to kick you off your journey the best way possible.

 

Visit the following locations for the experience:

 

● SM North EDSA

● SM Megamall

● SM Southmall

● SM Manila

● Ayala Fairview Terraces

● PLDT Jones

● SM Lipa

● SM Marilao

 

Stream One Piece: Into the Grand Line and enjoy more unli entertainment with PLDT Home Fiber Netflix Plan – your all-in-one subscription for fast internet and premium entertainment. Apply today in-store or online atpldthome.com/one-piece-1MF and start your journey to becoming the King of the Pirates!

foodpanda PH Matches Tips Nationwide for Labor Day Under Panda-Malasakit Project

 This Labor Day on May 1, foodpanda Philippines is doubling the in-app tips received by their Ka-panda partner riders, as part of its ongoing efforts to provide added support amid rising daily costs.

Rolled out nationwide, the initiative encourages customers to show appreciation through tipping, with foodpanda matching each tip to amplify its impact– and 100% of tips going to riders. It also emphasizes the vital role riders play in connecting communities—delivering not just food, but convenience and care to households across the country.

“Our partner riders are the backbone of our business, and on Labor Day, we want their rewards to reflect their resilience," said Patricia Jacinto, growth and marketing director of foodpanda Philippines. "By doubling tips, we are joining forces with our customers to ensure that every Ka-panda feels the full weight of the country’s gratitude. In the face of rising costs, we aren't just moving food—we’re moving forward together."

This initiative is part of the Panda-Malasakit Project, a purpose-driven campaign that brings together efforts designed to support riders, customers, and partners during a time of rising costs. Built on the idea that every order can create impact, it combines matched tipping and on-ground initiatives to support riders, customers, and partners across the foodpanda ecosystem.

As foodpanda continues to roll out more initiatives under the project, the company remains committed to strengthening its support for riders and the communities it serves.

Empowering Filipinas through menopause and muscle health

 Across generations, Filipinas have been the quiet strength holding families and communities together. They are the mothers who rise before dawn for their families, the daughters caring for aging parents, and the professionals balancing demanding careers with life at home. In every role, Filipinas show resilience—constantly enduring, giving, and caring.

Yet one essential form of strength often goes unnoticed: muscle health – the physical foundation that allows women to move freely, stay independent, and live life fully. As women enter menopause, this foundation is quietly challenged. Understanding how menopause affects muscle health can empower women to take intentional, proactive steps to remain strong through midlife and beyond.

Understanding the change

Menopause marks a significant life transition for women. It is a natural biological process signaling the end of menstrual cycles and typically unfolds in three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and post menopause. Each woman’s experience is unique, influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. 

This transition is primarily driven by a natural decline in estrogen, a hormone that affects many systems in the body¹—including muscles.² Estrogen helps maintain muscle mass and strength by supporting tendons, ligaments, and the repair of muscle tissue.² When estrogen levels drop, women may notice: 

 

·        Reduced muscle mass and strength³

·        Slower recovery after activity

·        Lower energy levels, and

·        Increased risks for osteoporosis and cardiovascular conditions.⁴

“While these changes are normal, they do not have to limit a woman’s quality of life. Midlife is a critical window for women to prioritize their muscle health. By intentionally building and maintaining strength during this stage, women can protect their independence, mobility, and overall quality of life. Strength-building remains valuable at every stage, even long after the reproductive years,” said Dr. Rowena Auxillos, former President of the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society.

 

Building strength through daily habits

Women typically reach menopause at an average age of 48, often accompanied by symptoms such as headaches, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and joint discomfort.⁵ While these symptoms can feel overwhelming, these are also gentle reminders to invest in one’s health. 

 

Here are practical habits every woman can adopt:

 

Daily movement. Because metabolism naturally slows during menopause, staying active is crucial.⁶ Simple exercises—like walking, morning stretches, or dancing—can offer meaningful benefits for muscle maintenance and mood. 

Resistance training. Resistance or strength training is the most effective way to rebuild and protect muscle mass.⁷ This can include using free weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups. Just two to three sessions a week can make a noticeable difference.

 

A nutritious diet. Protein-rich foods help repair and build muscles. Aim for 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily.⁸ Great options include eggs, lean meats, and dairy like milk, yoghurt and cheese.⁹ Plant-based foods such as edamame, dried fruits, tofu or sesame and flax seeds are high in phytoestrogens, which help ease menopausal symptoms by mimicking estrogen’s effects.¹⁰

 

Additionally, foods rich in calcium and vitamin D—like sardines, salmon, mackerel, tuna, and leafy greens—also support bone health, which becomes increasingly important during this life stage.¹¹

 

Supportive supplements. Incorporating clinically proven nutrients into daily diet can improve muscle mass and overall resilience. For example, Ensure Gold contains CaHMB (Calcium β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate) which supports muscle repair and maintains muscle mass, and YBG (Yeast Beta Glucan) which helps strengthen immunity within four weeks, when combined with proper diet and exercise.

 

Quality sleep. A study has shown that 40% of women in their late 40s and early 50s experience sleep difficulties.¹²To improve sleep quality, avoid caffeine and alcohol near bedtime and focus on establishing a regular nighttime schedule. Good sleep supports both muscle recovery and emotional balance.

 

“From a medical nutrition perspective, muscle health cannot be supported by physical activity alone—particularly during and after menopause. During this transition, women’s nutritional needs increase at a time when appetite and nutrient absorption may decline. Without adequate intake of high‑quality protein and essential micronutrients, muscle loss can accelerate. Clinically formulated nutritional supplements such as Ensure Gold are designed to help address these nutritional gaps, supporting muscle mass and functional strength as women age,” said Dr. Gamaliel Tayao, Abbott’s head of medical affairs in the Philippines.

 

Midlife is not about slowing down—it is an opportunity to refocus on strength that supports everyday living. When women are informed and proactive about muscle health, they are better equipped to grow into stronger, healthier versions of themselves.

The New Diskarte: How Filipino Moms Are Using AI to Grow Their Businesses

Gemini Academy attendees gather around for a collaborative, hands-on activity. During the session, participants explored how to integrate various Google AI tools into their daily operations to elevate their local businesses.

For years, the conversation around empowering women has centered on one word: access. We talked about access to education, the internet, and the global marketplace. But as the world changes, so does the definition of being "connected."

Today, a new digital divide is emerging. It isn't just about who has an internet connection. It's about who knows how to use and maximize the digital tools at their disposal. As artificial intelligence (AI) begins to reshape how we work, learn, and grow our businesses, the goal is shifting.

It’s no longer enough just to be online. To truly thrive, women need the skills and confidence to lead in an AI-driven world.

Moving Beyond the Connection

Through a collaboration between PLDT Home’s Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) and Google, the second Gemini Academy for mompreneurs was recently held to bridge this gap. Building on last year’s introduction to AI, the program focused on practical use, showing participants how AI can support their businesses and help them stay competitive in a fast-changing digital landscape. It also encouraged women to become #maAIdiskartemom, embracing innovation by using AI tools.

While "AI" can sometimes sound like a complicated term reserved for tech experts, Gemini Academy is proving that these tools are actually for everyone. Most especially for mompreneurs who are balancing their family life and work, while looking to reach more customers. AI is a partner that helps get things done faster and more creatively.

Cheryl Maxine P. Loyola, AVP & Head, PLDT Home Marketing PR and Brand Advocacy 

“AI is no longer limited to large enterprises. It is for everyone, and we need to embrace it. Today, it goes beyond being a tool. It becomes a partner that helps you write product descriptions in seconds, respond to customers with confidence, create content, and support your day-to-day operations,” said Cheryl Maxine Loyola, AVP and Head of Public Relations and Brand Advocacy at PLDT Home.

“When you put tools like Gemini in the hands of women who are already 'madiskarte', you do more than improve productivity. You unlock potential.”

Tools for the Modern Filipina

The Gemini Academy has always focused on making technology approachable. It also recognizes the efforts of mompreneurs who have leveraged AI to grow their businesses, such as mom ambassadors Princess Alvarez of ISLA Everything Accessories and Jenielyn Sicabalo-Nieva of MP Nieva's Flower Shop. 

Princess successfully built a custom pricing calculator and business tracker from scratch with the help of Gemini. This gives her a real-time view of her business profitability without a technical background. Jenielyn also utilized Gemini to do deep research into bouquet trends and innovative "add-on" gift ideas. This keeps her up to date on the latest market trends, so she can consistently offer fresh gift ideas to customers.

These stories reflect a broader shift in how Filipino women are redefining entrepreneurship in the digital age.

Daphne Gripal Abello, Manager, PLDT Home Marketing PR and Brand Advocacy

 

“What we’re seeing today is a new kind of ‘diskarte’—one where Filipina entrepreneurs are not just adopting technology, but using AI to lead, innovate, and scale their businesses with confidence, and ultimately lead their own success story,” said Daphne Gripal Abello, Manager, PLDT Home Marketing PR and Brand Advocacy.

During this year’s Gemini Academy with PLDT Home’s MMPH, participants discovered how other innovative Google products can simplify their day-to-day business tasks, such as NotebookLM, which serves as their personal assistant, helping organize notes, understand complex documents, and brainstorm ideas. Music generator Lyria and AI image editor Nano Banana can open up new worlds of creativity, helping users explore music and media in ways once possible only with expensive equipment. While AI marketing tool Pomelli is designed to help streamline tasks and improve how they interact with digital information.

Through digital mastery, women are moving from learning the basics to dominating the digital space. They are now finding ways to automate information so they can focus on what they are passionate about

Participants proudly share their work following the hands-on activity. They demonstrated how quickly mompreneurs can supercharge their brands and craft compelling, professional stories using Google AI tools. 

Celebrating the "Diskarteng AI"

The mission doesn't stop at training. Empowerment also means recognition. During the program, it was announced that next year’s Gawad Madiskarte, the annual awards ceremony of PLDT Home’s MMPH that honors the grit and ingenuity of Filipina entrepreneurs, will include the Diskarteng Digital Award.

This category will honor women who have successfully integrated AI into their businesses, demonstrating that "diskarte" today is about more than just hard work—it's about being innovative and creative with the best available technology. 

Prep Palacios, Google Philippines Country Manager.

"The award will recognize the mompreneur who can best leverage AI to scale her business. We want to show that a modern Filipina entrepreneur is not just a participant, but a leader in the global digital landscape. This is our way of celebrating your growth and AI mindset," said Prep Palacios, Google Philippines Country Manager.

Why This Matters Now

If we don’t prioritize AI literacy for women today, we risk leaving them out of the most important economic conversations of tomorrow. Empowerment is about having a seat at the table, and in 2026, it’s all about maximizing digital potential.

By turning connectivity into capability, PLDT Home’s MMPH and Gemini Academy are ensuring that Filipino women aren't just spectators in the tech revolution. They are the ones leading it. It’s time to move beyond just getting online. It’s time to take charge.

To know more about PLDT Home’s Madiskarte Moms PH, join the Facebook community and follow the official page.

CCIP Launches “CCIP Brief” to Boost Transparency and Member Engagement

The Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) proudly introduces the CCIP Brief, its official quarterly report designed to provide members and stakeholders with a clear and structured update on the Chamber’s key activities, engagements, and advocacy efforts.

The inaugural CCIP Brief: Q1 2026 Edition highlights the Chamber’s ongoing work across regulatory collaboration, industry consultations, strategic partnerships, and member-focused initiatives. It reflects CCIP’s continued commitment to representing the interests of the Philippine cosmetics industry while supporting both compliance and sustainable growth.

Through engagements with government agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA), and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), CCIP plays an active role in shaping policies and addressing key industry concerns. 

“The CCIP Brief is part of our commitment to transparency and alignment with our members,” said Denice Sy, CCIP’s VP for Information Publication and Public Affairs. “It allows us to clearly communicate what the Chamber has been doing on behalf of the industry and how these efforts translate into value for CCIP members.”

The quarterly report also captures the Chamber’s participation in regional platforms, including its role within the ASEAN Cosmetics Association (ACA), further strengthening access to cross-border insights, networks, and opportunities.

Moving forward, the CCIP Brief will be released every quarter as a key communication platform. This ensures members stay informed, engaged, and represented in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.

 

For more information, visit CCIP’s official website cciphilippinesinc.com or contact the Secretariat ccipsecretariat@gmail.com