Empowering Women in Business: Mompreneurs Shine at UN Women WEPs Awards Forum

 Madiskarte Moms PH, the online community of women and mompreneurs in the Philippines, took centerstage at the first-ever Asia-Pacific UN Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards. The forum and awards ceremony celebrated companies championing gender equality in the region, and highlighted critical topics such as women entrepreneurship and digital inclusivity.  

Athena Denise Galao, Country Program Coordinator of UN Women Philippines, led the discussion with the panel composed of women leaders Melissa Vergel de Dios, PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer and advocate for Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH); Ahyee Campos of GoDigital Pilipinas and Country Head of Infosys BPM Philippines; NEDA Undersecretary Atty. Krystal Lyn Uy; and Connected Women CEO Agnes Gervacio.

L-R) During the forum at the first-ever Asia-Pacific UN Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) awards, Athena Denise Galao, Country Program Coordinator of UN Women Philippines, led the discussion with the panel composed of women leaders Ahyee Campos, GoDigital Pilipinas and Country Head of Infosys BPM Philippines, Agnes Gervacio, Connected Women CEO, Atty. Krystal Lyn Uy, NEDA Undersecretary and Melissa Vergel de Dios, PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer and advocate for Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH)

 

Women in business

When people think of “women in business,” they immediately think of women executives working for big companies in finance or retail rather than the grassroots entrepreneurs and community leaders who are often the driving forces behind local economies.

 

The pandemic revealed the untapped potential of these women through Madiskarte Moms PH. And four years after its inception, this online community of almost 200,000 mompreneurs continues to promote digital upskilling, enhance entrepreneurial skills, and expand access to community support for its members to start and grow their home-based businesses. 

 

PLDT Home, which supported the online community of moms from its founding, helped these small businesses not just to survive but to flourish during their most challenging times.

 

PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer and advocate for Madiskarte Moms PH Melissa Vergel de Dios shared that it is “all about the creativity and innovation of mompreneurs.”

 

Vergel de Dios relates the story of an awardee at the 2024 Gawad Madiskarte, PLDT Home’s annual recognition and awards for the best businesses by mompreneurs. “This mom needed to buy milk for her child, which cost her the only money she had—P3,000. Not only was her budget just enough, but it was also unfortunately stolen or lost. Instead of being overcome by helplessness, this clever mom sold her old clothes and made P7,000. This mom turned an unfortunate incident into the beginning of her business called HTP or Half the Price. Now that she had capital for a business, she called up all her friends to put their unwanted clothes together and sell them. From that P7,000, her income is now seven figures.”

 

PLDT Home’s advocacy for inclusivity for women in business and in tech goes hand in hand with the continuous expansion of its fiber network across the country and support for programs on internet education for the whole family. 

 

“We’ve given masterclasses and lessons that teach women how to create their own websites, how to avoid scams and fraud. But, as I say, it takes a whole nation. Now, the Madiskarte Moms teach new members so that they can go forward as well,” Vergel de Dios added. Breaking gender stereotypes

Breaking conventional gender roles and mindsets has also allowed the government to map out an inclusivity plan for women. NEDA Undersecretary Atty. Krystal Lyn Uy said the Philippine Development Plan or “the nation’s blueprint” includes strategies to mainstream gender equality in government. 

 

Moderator and Country Program Coordinator of UN Women Philippines Athena Denise Galao raised a valid point on women who work from home still bearing increased domestic responsibilities. “How do we prevent housework from becoming another barrier for women’s advancement?”

 

Ahyee Campos of GoDigital Pilipinas and Country Head of Infosys said, “We need to take away the mindset that home care is only for women. Unpaid home care is not allowing women in that kind of working model to really succeed. And so participation of the husband in those conversations needs to be more active and the women need to be more forthcoming—it cannot be assumed that it’s understood.”

 

Will AI take away jobs?

As AI becomes more intelligent—by learning from humans! — the inevitable question for every employee is: will my employer replace me with a computer program?

L-R) During the forum at the first-ever Asia-Pacific UN Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) awards, Athena Denise Galao, Country Program Coordinator of UN Women Philippines, led the discussion with the panel composed of women leaders Ahyee Campos, GoDigital Pilipinas and Country Head of Infosys BPM Philippines, Agnes Gervacio, Connected Women CEO, Atty. Krystal Lyn Uy, NEDA Undersecretary and Melissa Vergel de Dios, PLDT Chief Sustainability Officer and advocate for Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH)

 

Not likely, according to Connected Women CEO Agnes Gervacio. “When you embark on digital transformation and your goal is to do headcount reduction, you’re doing it all wrong. Because the goal of digital transformation is to make sure that you deliver efficiencies as well as ensure that your business is competitive.”

 That future may not always be in the office, according to Vergel de Dios. “Sometimes success is not being an executive in the office but being an entrepreneur. Today’s success is defined differently. We can be role models to the little girls that look up to us, and we can show them that they can dream. It also starts with education so that at a young stage the stereotypes are broken at the formation stage.”

Donny Pangilinan is PICKUP COFFEE celebrity ambassador

Donny Pangilinan Joins the PICKUP COFFEE Family as Their Newest Brand Ambassador.

Established in 2022, PICKUP COFFEE is redefining the coffee experience in the Philippine coffee scene. With over 300 branches nationwide and 20 million cups sold—including 3 million cups of its iconic Kape Kastila—PICKUP COFFEE has cementedbits role as a key player in delivering premium yet surprisingly affordable coffee to Filipinos.

On February 5, PICKUP COFFEE celebrated a milestone moment during its Welcoming Event at SM Megamall Fashion Hall, where the brand unveiled its newest endorser, Donny Pangilinan, and showcased its signature handcrafted beverages. During the event, Francis Flores, PICKUP COFFEE’s Country CEO, highlighted the company’s mission:

“Since we launched in February 2022, our team has remained steadfast in achieving our mission—to UPlift everyone through delicious, high-quality, and surprisingly affordable beverages, everywhere, one PICKUP at a time.”

Donny Pangilinan’s introduction was a major highlight of the program, complete with a playful backstage search that built excitement among fans in attendance. Sharing the stage with PICKUP COFFEE’s iconic beverages, Donny expressed his enthusiasm: “Saying yes tobjoining the PICKUP COFFEE family was easy. They’ve perfected the balance of premiumquality and affordability—it’s something you don’t see every day. It's become my go-to because it just hits the spot every time.

Known for its bean-to-cup promise, PICKUP COFFEE espresso-based beverages arelbmade with 100% Arabica beans and a double shot of espresso, ensuring bold, rich flavor in every sip. Fans got to witness this firsthand during a live demo, where Donny prepared perfect espresso shots and served Kape Kastilas to lucky audience members.

At the heart of the celebration were PICKUP COFFEE’s renowned PICKUP Signatures: the rich and velvety Kape Kastila, the smooth and indulgent White Mocha, the sweet and bold Caramel Macchiato, and the creamy PICKUP Crème Latte. These crowd favoritesvunderscore the brand’s dedication to serving beverages that cater to every coffee lover’s palate.

PICKUP COFFEE continues to make premium coffee experiences accessible to all, proving that quality doesn’t have to break the bank. From its beverages to its latest partnership with Donny Pangilinan, PICKUP COFFEE continues to prove why #ItsBetterEspresso

Stay Vigilant: Strengthening Digital Security on Safer Internet Day

 As online fraud reaches unprecedented levels, Filipinos arereminded to stay vigilant and strengthen their digital security—a key message underscored by Safer Internet Day, an annual global movement advocating for a safer and more responsible online experience.

 

According to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC), cybercrime complaints more than tripled in 2024, with 10,004 cases filed—a staggering rise from 3,317 in 2023.1 These scams led to PHP198 million in total financial losses, highlighting the growing sophistication of fraud, particularly consumer fraud and online financial fraud, which together account for 67% of all reported cases. Fraudsters continue to exploit deceptive tactics such as fake online sales, impersonation scams, investment fraud, and phishing to steal sensitive information like passwords and one-time PINs (OTPs).

 

Recognizing the growing vulnerabilities of OTPs, the BangkoSentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is pushing for stricter security regulations to strengthen the country’s financial cybersecurity framework. As part of this effort, the BSP has proposedregulatory changes aimed at enforcing Republic Act No. 12010,or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (Afasa), whichwas signed into law last year to combat financial cybercrimes.This includes requiring banks to continuously enhance theirsecurity infrastructure, implement stronger

 

 

1 Philippine News Agency. (2025, January 31). Scamcomplaints triple in 2024 – CICC. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1243101

 

 

 

authentication measures, and adopt more advanced frauddetection systems to stay ahead of cybercriminals2.

 

PSBank is reinforcing its commitment to security through key enhancements to its PSBank Mobile app. Clients now have theability to lock access to their accounts on platforms they don’tusually use, ensuring that their PSBank accounts remain restricted to their preferred and regularly utilized channels. They can also lock or unlock their ATM cards through the app, providing an extra layer of protection against unauthorized transactions.

 

Beyond security, PSBank Mobile continues to simplify digitalbanking with a faster, more seamless account opening process,removing the waiting period for verification and allowingcustomers to open an account with just one valid ID and a selfie. The app also offers zero initial deposit requirements, real-time bill payments, RFID reloading for tolls, and lower InstaPaytransfer fees—ensuring that users can enjoy safe and hassle-free banking.

 

While security systems evolve, vigilance remains the most powerful defense against online fraud. To minimize risks, users are encouraged to follow these key digital safety practices:

 

1. Verify sender identities – Always double-check emails, messages, or calls claiming to be from banks or government agencies. Scammers often impersonate trusted institutions.

2. Avoid clicking on suspicious links – Phishing scams rely on fake websites that mimic legitimate platforms to steal login credentials. Always access bank websites and apps directly.

3. Use strong, unique passwords – Avoid using the samepassword across multiple accounts. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.

4. Never share banking credentials – Banks will never ask for your PIN, OTP, or account details via email, text, or call. If someone requests this information, it's likely a scam.

5. Monitor account activity regularly – Frequently checkyour bank statements and transaction history for any unauthorized activity. Report suspicious transactions immediately.

6. Report scams promptly – If you fall victim to fraud,contact your bank and report the incident to the government’s 1326 cybercrime hotline, available 24/7 to assist victims.

 

As cybercriminals continue to innovate, fortifying your digital security is no longer just an option—it’s a necessity. This Safer Internet Day serves as a strong reminder that while financial institutions enhance their digital defenses, users must also remain proactive and vigilant. Fraudsters may adapt, but with the right security measures and a well-informed digital bankingcommunity, Filipinos can continue transacting online with confidence.

 

2 Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. (2025, January 22). Amendments to Regulations onInformation Technology Risk Management to Implement Section 6 of the AntiFinancial Account Scamming Act (AFASA). https://www.bsp.gov.ph/Regulations/Issuances%20of%20Policy%20Exposure%20Drafts/Exposure-Draft_Amendments-to- Regulations-on-IT-Risk-Management-to-Implement-Section-6-of-the-Anti-Financial-Account-Scamming-Act.pdf

 

 

 

For more information on safe digital banking practices and the latest news on the PSBank Mobile App, visit www.psbank.com.ph or follow PSBank on Facebook and Instagram.

Ballet Manila Celebrates 30 Years with a Showcase of Its Finest Performances

 Like a pearl whose luster and sheen get better with age, Ballet Manila’s 30th year celebration reflects the graceful passage of the years, marked by a series of stellar productions featuring world-renowned ballet superstars from the US and Russia, all set to take place at the AliwTheater, Pasay City.

Ballet Manila’s Bloom Pas De Deux featuring Joshua Rey Enciso and Stephanie Kerilen Santiago

 

Dubbed the “The Pearl Year,” Ballet Manila is opening the performance season with The Pearl Gala on March 7, 2025, at 8 PM, and on March 8 & 9, 2025, at 5 PM. A collection of the best and most exquisite performance pieces from Ballet Manila, the gala features the world premiere of “Pearls,” choreographed by none other than Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila’s CEO and artistic director, along with fellow award-winning choreographers Martin Lawrance and Gerardo Francisco Jr.

 

Details of the anniversary celebration and the new performance season were announced during Ballet Manila’s 30th anniversary launch, held recently at the Shangri-La Mall, which extended its support to Ballet Manila by hosting the event as part of its initiatives for National Arts Month. “This is a wonderful opportunity to emphasize our mission of bringing ballet to the people and people to ballet, as well as highlight ballet as a beautiful art form,” shared Macuja-Elizalde. 

Ballet Manila choreographer Martin Lawrance; principal dancers Joshua Enciso, Romeo Peralta and Junmark Sumaylo

CEO and artistic director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde; principal dancers Abigail Lynn Oliveiro and Shaira May Comeros; artistic associate Gerardo Francisco Jr; and event host Mitch Valdes

Ballet Manila’s The Pearl Gala will open with “Paquita,” which was first performed by Ballet Manila during its first ballet concert 30 years ago. After three decades, the dance company is performing it once again to highlight how a ballet company’s mettle, strength, and quality are measured by its corps de ballet and not only by its soloists or principals. The production will also allow the ballerinas to shine on their own in different variations and codas.

 

From the very classical “Paquita,” the gala will present “Bloom,” originally choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa in 2014, and performed by many American companies such as Cincinnati Ballet and Los Angeles Ballet. Once again, the number will showcase the diversity and strengths of the company in its 30th year, but this time with a male-dominated corps de ballet – a unique feature in a ballet company.

 

“Pearls” will complete the gala to show how the development of the pearl is similar to that of a dancer.  The dance company’s journey will be depicted through different kinds of pearls. The ballet is divided into six parts, with each dancer representing a unique jewel that is trained for years before achieving such effortless grace – just like a pearl composed of many layers that ultimately create a beautiful gem. The ballet will culminate with the pearls dancing in both classical and contemporary styles.

 

From The Pearl Gala, Ballet Manila continues the performance season with the classical ballet production “Swan Lake” on May 30, 2025, at 8 PM, and on May 31 and June 1, 2025, at 5 PM. A special matinee on May 31, 2025, at 1:00 PM will feature Ballet Manila principal dancer Abigail Oliveiro and San Francisco Ballet company artist Nathaniel Remez as the leads.

 

Adding to the acclaim, guest celebrity ballet dancers from San Francisco Ballet -- soloist Katherine Barkman, who was formerly a principal dancer with Ballet Manila, and principal dancer Esteban Hernandez -- will grace the stage. Barkman will perform the dual roles of Odette (White Swan) and Odile (Black Swan), alongside Hernandez as the male lead. The duo will perform in all three shows.

 

A fitting choice for the company’s 30th year, “Swan Lake” is one of the most difficult ballets to perform for a prima ballerina because of the extreme technical demands of Odile and the soft lyricism of Odette. “Swan Lake” will once again highlight Ballet Manila’s commitment to excellence as it showcases the Russian Vaganova training that Ballet Manila continues to specialize in.

 

Closing the performance season is “Don Quixote,” another classical ballet featuring the return of ballet superstar, Mariinsky Prima Ballerina Renata Shakirova. 

 

For Macuja-Elizalde, “Don Quixote” is a brilliant way to end the season as it has become a signature full-length ballet of the company. Kitri has also become Lisa Macuja-Elizalde's signature role as a ballerina, and it is also a signature role for Renata, who will be able to showcase her light gigantic leaps, multiple and fast pirouettes, and the 32 fouettés that everyone can look forward to. Playing alongside Renata is Joshua Enciso, making his debut as Basilio.

 

“Don Quixote,” emphasizes Macuja-Elizalde, is a great way to close the season on a positive note as it is a ballet that seems like a two-hour nonstop celebration. “We have a very packed and exciting performance season, and I’m excited for the audience to finally see what we have worked so hard for on our Pearl Year,” she said.

 

All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph.To learn more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph