Monthly Archives

June 2025

Entertainment

From the Flower Girl soundtrack, Filipino singer-songwriter dwta releases “Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya”

Helmed by filmmaker and screenwriter Fatrick Tabada, the comedy-drama stars award-winning actress Sue Ramirez

The sorrowful folk-pop song “Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya,” by Filipino singer-songwriter dwta is released by Sony Music Entertainment.

The official soundtrack for the upcoming comedy-drama Flower Girl, which stars Sue Ramirez, includes the song.

Ena, a young lady searching for her lost “womanhood,” is at the heart of this quirky, entertaining, and profoundly reflective film, which was directed by multi-awarded filmmaker and screenwriter Fatrick Tabada.

Tabada offers nothing but high praises for dwta’s latest song, pointing out its pivotal role in supporting the lead character’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance. “Amid the film’s absurdity, the song grounds Ena and brings out her humanity,” Tabada adds. “Though Ena may come off as unlikeable at first, Kung Ikaw ay Masaya reminds the audience that she is a woman in the process of rediscovering her humanity—and that she, too, is allowed to stumble in her journey toward self-worth.”

WATCH THE FLOWER GIRL TRAILER HERE

“When I watched the trailer, I already felt that the story was very different,” shares the Bicol-born, Manila-based artist. “It’s not the usual love story you see in movies. That’s also how the song connects to the film. The original nursery rhyme is for kids but the way we used it in the song gave it a more serious feel, kind of like how the film talks about stuff people don’t usually talk about. It’s like both the song and the film took something familiar and made it feel more real and grown-up. It proves that even things that seem light can carry real weight.”

True to her roots as a storyteller and film enthusiast, dwta has always gravitated towards narratives that challenge convention. She sees Flower Girl as the type of film that aligns with her vision as an artist.

“it’s not just any movie,” she explains. “It’s bold, it’s unique, and it talks about things that are rarely depicted in mainstream Filipino cinema. “And with big stars like Sue Ramirez, KaladKaren, and other amazing actors in the cast, it’s a huge honor to be part of something this incredibly meaningful.”

DWTA’s “Kung Ikaw ay Masaya” serves as the soundtrack to Ena’s penultimate chapter in her search for true love. Amid the film’s absurdity, the song grounds Ena and brings out her humanity. Though Ena may come off as unlikeable at first, “Kung Ikaw ay Masaya” reminds the audience that she is a woman in the process of rediscovering her humanity—and that she, too, is allowed to stumble in her journey toward self-worth.

The song’s main hook, which also serves as its chorus, reimagines the beloved nursery rhymes of the same name. dwta’s take turns the familiar childhood melody into a haunting serenade that conveys the frustration of being at the receiving end of mixed signals and false hopes. She transforms what is typically lighthearted and innocent into something deeply personal.

LISTEN TO “KUNG IKAW AY MASAYA” HERE

The ’Santigwar” act reveals, “I ended up enjoying the process so much that I made a list of other nursery rhymes/ children games I could write songs from. Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya is one of them. I guess what inspired me the most was the idea that even the simplest, happiest songs can have deeper meaning if you look at them from a different angle.”

This isn’t her first foray into nursery rhymes-inspired music. Earlier, she released “Sampung Mga Daliri,” a nostalgic track turned bittersweet duet with SB19’s Justin and “Nasusunog (Pants On Fire).” The emotional juxtaposition between childhood joy and adult heartbreak, she explains, is what gives the songs their resonance.

“Nursery rhymes are nostalgic for us and we usually associate them with childhood and happy times. But when you pair that song with a different story like heartbreak, it hits differently.”

With a simple arrangement consisting of just violin, guitar, and keyboard, “Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya,” which was produced by longtime partner Brian Lotho, keeps things subtle and personal.

Through Sony Music Entertainment, Kung Ikaw Ay Masaya by dwta is currently available on all digital music platforms globally.

Flower Girl is out now in cinemas nationwide.

 

 

Food, News

In collaboration with DENR and PBSP, the Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines improves water access on Tingloy Island

(L-R) Ma. Cecilia L. Alcantara, President of CCFPI; Carlos Primo David, DENR Undersecretary for Integrated Environmental Science; Tony Del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines and Chairman of the Board of CCFPI; and Elvin Ivan Uy, Executive Director of PBSP, during the MOA signing held at the Coca-Cola Philippines office.

The Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Inc. (CCFPI) is reaffirming its dedication to supporting the nation’s waste management and water access initiatives. In order to legally launch the Flowing Opportunities: Clean Water, Healthy Ocean, and Entrepreneurship Project—which aims to provide clean water and support sustainable livelihoods for the island residents in Tingloy, Batangas—it signed a Memorandum of Agreement on May 20, 2025.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) will collaborate as important partners in technical assistance, implementation, and community involvement through a five-year grant from CCFPI.

“With our water stewardship programs, Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines has been helping fund projects to provide access to safe water in local communities in the country,” said Tony Del Rosario.

“The Flowing Opportunities project exemplifies our long-term vision to help build more water-secure communities through innovative and sustainable solutions. Combining clean water access with livelihood opportunities enables us to empower communities while contributing to broader efforts in securing the country’s water future.” Del Rosario added.

A multi-sector approach to improving water access

Tingloy is a remote municipality in Batangas that has long struggled with limited access to clean drinking water. The Flowing Opportunities project will establish two climate-resilient water refilling stations (WRS) in two barangays — Sto. Tomas and San Jose — each tailored to address the unique water challenges of the areas.

In Brgy. Sto. Tomas, a solar-powered groundwater treatment facility will treat the area’s groundwater supply. Meanwhile, the project will provide Brgy. San Jose with a solar-powered desalination system to convert its high saline water sources into potable water. These systems aim to address the long-standing water scarcity in Tingloy.

The idea for the Flowing Opportunities project was conceived during a 2024 learning session hosted by PBSP’s Water Alliance and CCFPI. During the event, DENR Undersecretary David noted the role of the private sector to help bring solar-powered water filtration to around 100 island communities as sustainable, community-run enterprises. He emphasized the need for community-led water enterprises that would sell treated water, ensuring both access and long-term sustainability of the systems. CCFPI joined forces with PBSP and DENR to develop a solution that is now underway in Tingloy, bringing safe water access and livelihood opportunities to its underserved communities.

“This initiative exemplifies our shared goal of providing more sustainable water solutions through collaborative effort. By working together, we can make a difference and improve the lives of these communities,” Del Rosario added.

Sustaining the flow

A key aspect of the Flowing Opportunities project is to build local capacity through the creation of a dedicated water association with an entrepreneurial mindset. PBSP and its partners will work with barangay local government units (BLGUs) to identify suitable people’s organizations (POs) to manage the WRS. These POs will be formalized into Water Associations and trained to operate and maintain the system, ensuring its long-term sustainability and empowering the community to become self-sufficient.

Beyond access to water, the initiative also supports sustainable solid waste management. Each barangay will be equipped with a materials recovery facility (MRF) or plastic bottle exchange storage. In partnership with Pure Ocean, these structures will serve as hubs for a “palit-tubig” system, allowing residents to exchange plastic bottles for water to promote recycling and environmental awareness.

The project will last for 65 months in total, during which time CCFPI, DENR, and the LGU will receive progress reports and ongoing monitoring.

In addition to supporting The Coca-Cola Company’s larger sustainability goal on water stewardship, waste reduction, and community resilience, this program reaffirms CCFPI’s dedication to water security and community empowerment.

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe was named the Philippines’ Most Recommended Telco Brand for 2025

Based on study by SYNERGY | YouGov reflecting brand trust and loyalty

In photo (L–R): Renzo Reyes, of SYNERGY Market Research + Strategic Consultancy; Chief Operations Officer Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer; Germaine Reyes, President and CEO of SYNERGY Market Research + Strategic Consultancy; and Chi Wei Teo, General Manager of YouGov Singapore.

Based on feedback from Filipino customers, Globe was named the Philippines’ Most Recommended Telco Brand for 2025.

Based on information from YouGov BrandIndex, a daily tracker that gauges consumer sentiment toward brands, the prize was presented at the SYNERGY | YouGov Awards. Globe continuously received the highest recommendation scores between January and December 2024, demonstrating how strongly Filipinos support and believe in the brand.

Accepting the award on behalf of Globe, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto shared a heartfelt message: “We’re really, truly proud to receive this award—and we dedicate it to our customers. We will always and continue to pursue making our customers happy and satisfied. At the end of the day, they are our North Star.”

This recognition is more than just a title—it’s proof that Globe’s efforts to listen, improve, and deliver better service are paying off. Whether it’s helping people stay connected, supporting digital learning, or creating moments of everyday ease, Globe continues to build real relationships with the people it serves.

Globe continues to concentrate on what really counts: gaining and maintaining the trust of its clients. GlobeOne is always looking for ways to make things easier, more meaningful, and more relevant for its customers. Some of these efforts include launching rewards and promotions that align with everyday lifestyles, streamlining self-service options on the GlobeOne app, and fostering digital inclusion by strengthening digital infrastructure in underserved communities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

Leading the way is Manila Water, the first Philippine business to be listed on CDP’s Corporate A List for Water

Manila Water has earned its first ‘A’ listing in CDP for Water, a historic milestone making them the first Philippine company to achieve this top rating.

As the first Philippine company to receive this top rating, Manila Water has achieved a historic milestone by earning its first ‘A’ classification in CDP for Water. The company’s high performance in establishing strategic goals, carrying out successful initiatives, and upholding open disclosure policies is reflected in this notable improvement over last year’s “A-.” This honor highlights Manila Water’s continued leadership in water stewardship out of the more than 22,700 businesses that CDP rated in 2024.

“We are incredibly proud to achieve an ‘A’ listing from CDP for our water security efforts,” said Manila Water President and CEO Jocot de Dios. “This recognition validates our unwavering commitment to responsible water management and reflects the dedication of our entire team.  Sustainability is a core component that informs our long-term vision for all areas of operation, as we ensure continued service to over 12 million people globally.”

In addition to its ‘A’ rating for Water, Manila Water maintained a ‘B’ score in its climate assessment, further demonstrating its commitment to addressing interconnected environmental challenges. Their consistent climate rating highlights their proactive approach to upholding the evolving corporate transparency standards, particularly as CDP’s expanded platform in 2024 aligns with the ISSB Climate-related Disclosures Standard.

Manila Water is committed to delivering sustainable and dependable water services while actively supporting the shift to a low-carbon economy. In addition to helping its customers and the environment, this CDP designation provides further incentive to keep developing and enhancing its water security and climate change efforts, thereby establishing a standard for corporate responsibility in the Philippines.

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Help Is Extended to Mt. Kanlaon Evacuees by Eastern Communications

Eastern Communications (EC) representatives with the Governor of Negros Occidental. [From L to R:] EC Sales Regional Operations Group Head Anthony Co, EC Chief Marketing and Experience Officer Jed Estanislao, EC Sales senior Account Manager Cathelyn Delariarte, Hon. Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, EC Segment Marketing Manager Daniella Banzon, EC Business Consultant Mike Castañeda, and EC Segment Marketing Head Gian Conde.

Eastern Communications, in keeping with its goal to support Filipinos in times of need, swiftly responded to the recent eruption of Mt. Kanlaon in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, by providing critical support to impacted areas with the assistance of its workers.

Over 2,000 people were temporarily housed by family members in the city main and surrounding areas, while over 4,000 people were displaced by the eruption and placed in eight evacuation shelters. Together with the local government unit (LGU) of Canlaon City, Eastern Communications promptly organized a fundraising campaign to support continuing relief efforts.

Eastern Communications turned over its employee-initiated donation funds to help the LGU’s response programs and provide basic needs to those affected by the calamity.

Eastern Communications acknowledges the commendable leadership of the Canlaon LGU during this challenging time, recognizing their efforts in coordinating relief and ensuring the safety of their constituents.

“Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by Mt. Kanlaon’s eruption. In moments like this, when families are displaced and communities are in distress, it’s important that they know they’re not alone. We see the strength of the Canlaon community and the tireless work of its leaders, and we want to do our part. We hope that the support from all our Ka-Eastern employees can help ease some of the burden they’re facing,” said Jed Estanislao, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at Eastern Communications.

This initiative is part of Eastern Communications’ larger thrust to respond proactively during natural disasters. Similar to this initiative, the company also extended its support to communities affected by the Mt. Mayon eruption in Albay in 2023.

Eastern Communications (EC) representatives at the official Kanlaon donation turnover with the Provincial Treasurer of Negros Occidental. [From L to R:] EC Business Consultant Mike Castañeda, EC Segment Marketing Manager Daniella Banzon, EC Sales senior Account Manager Cathelyn Delariarte, Negros Occidental Provincial Treasurer Atty. Amy Bolivar, EC Chief Marketing and Experience Officer Jed Estanislao, EC Sales Regional Operations Group Head Anthony Co, and EC Segment Marketing Head Gian Conde.

The telco has consistently maintained partnerships with LGUs and NGOs to address urgent needs beyond connectivity. These efforts reflect the company’s enduring mission to serve not only as a telecommunications provider, but as a partner in uplifting lives, especially during emergencies.

Eastern’s assistance to Mt. Kanlaon evacuees reinforces its position as a reliable partner, guaranteeing not just connectivity but also sincere care during times of need, as it continues to uphold its brand values of maaasahan and malasakit.

Visit www.eastern.com.ph or follow Eastern Communications on Facebook to find out more about Eastern’s CSR initiatives.

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Pettr joins PAWS and DSWD to advocate for animal-assisted therapy and responsible pet ownership

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) collaborated with Pettr, the country’s first all-in-one petcare superapp under 917Ventures, to encourage responsible pet ownership and increase public awareness of the benefits of pets for mental health and emotional healing.

In DSWD’s Angel Pets Project, which incorporates animal-assisted therapy into support services for those who have been abused, neglected, or have psychosocial difficulties, Pettr participated in the most recent Angel Pets Advocacy, Research, and Learning (ARAL) session.

The program, which was organized by the DSWD Social Technology Bureau, brought together community members, social workers, and pet owners to talk about humane treatment, lifelong commitment, and correct pet training. It also covered the therapeutic significance of animals in fostering general wellness.

The session also addressed the importance of pet sterilization, or kapon, in preventing overpopulation and ensuring the long-term health of companion animals.

During the activity, Pettr emphasized the importance of making petcare more accessible to all. Pettr aims to empower fur parents through its all-in-one platform, which allows users to book grooming appointments, consult with veterinarians, purchase pet essentials, and access other services with ease.

“Every pet deserves proper care, and every pet parent deserves support. We see technology as a way to make responsible pet parenting more achievable for Filipinos. By partnering with DSWD and PAWS, we want to help ensure that pets are seen not just as companions but as valued members of the community,” said Martin Luchangco, General Manager of Pettr.

“Together with PAWS and Pettr, we’re encouraging a culture of kindness and peaceful coexistence between humans and animals,” said Jhann Paul Cornel of DSWD. “We continue to remind communities of a simple but powerful principle: ‘If you don’t like them, don’t hurt them.’”

Another highlight of the event was the invitation for community members to nominate their well-socialized pets for possible inclusion in the Dr. Dog Program, PAWS’ animal-assisted therapy initiative.

Founded by Jill Robinson of Animals Asia, Dr. Dog deploys trained “canine consultants” to hospitals, care homes, orphanages, and schools, offering emotional comfort and companionship to those who need it most.

Sharon Yap of PAWS added, “Through programs like Angel Pets and Dr. Dog, we hope to inspire empathy and compassion not only for animals, but also for the people whose lives they touch.”

The foundation of this partnership between Pettr, DSWD, and PAWS is a common objective to enhance animal care and provide assistance to people via access, education, and collaborations with a purpose.

Follow Pettr on Facebook and Instagram at @pettr.app to learn how they empower pet parents and foster a more compassionate pet community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lifestyle, News

The Employer Branding Institute selected Pru Life UK the Best Employer Brand for 2025

Pru Life UK’s Vice President for Talent and Organization Development Daisy Alvior
and Assistant Vice President – HR Business Partner Ma. Katrina Mallari accepted the award
from the Employer Branding Institute

Having previously received the Employer Branding Institute’s prestigious Best Employer Brand award in 2023, Pru Life UK has once again been recognized for its outstanding leadership in talent development, innovation, and top-tier employer branding.

This award demonstrates Pru Life UK’s ongoing dedication to creating a people-centered, purpose-driven company. The culture we’ve established—one that is motivated by purpose, rooted in wellbeing, and fueled by teamwork—is proudly acknowledged as a Best Employer Brand once more, said Rashelle Cejo, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Pru Life UK.

Central to the company’s people strategy is PRUHouse, its hybrid-friendly corporate headquarters in Bonifacio Global City. Designed to support flexibility, inclusivity, and productivity, PRUHouse features dedicated zones for learning, focus, collaboration, and community engagement. It reflects the company’s evolving approach to the future of work.

Pru Life UK’s hybrid work model, alongside initiatives such as structured wellness activities, and professional counselling through its Employee Assistance Programme, ensures a supportive and balanced work environment. Career development programmes via PRU Learning Academy and PRU Careers+ further empower employees to thrive and grow.

This most recent honor adds to the company’s increasing collection of honors, which also includes Statista’s 2025 Best Employer in the Philippines title. Serving more than two million Filipinos through its vast network of over 40,000 agents, Pru Life UK was the top-ranked company in the nation as of the end of 2024 for both total renewal premium revenue and new business annual premium equivalent.

For every life and every future, Pru Life UK is committed to being the most reliable partner and guardian.

 

Entertainment

Ahead of their “IN YOUR FANTASY” World Tour, unparalleled performance powerhouse ATEEZ returns with GOLDEN HOUR: Part 3

Image credit: KQ Entertainment

Ahead of their forthcoming “IN YOUR FANTASY” world tour, award-winning Korean all-star group ATEEZ makes a comeback with their 12th EP, GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3.

The trio was named the K-pop Artist of the Year by iHeartRadio, received their first nomination for an American Music Award this year, and is releasing a new album to continue their unstoppable popularity.

The delicate yet perilous charm of ATEEZ catches the beauty of every faltering moment, shining brilliantly just as it is, and this album marks the beginning of an unbounded temptation. It encapsulates the frantic energy of a summer evening—a brief moment of liberation and escape that slakes a profound, nearly ravenous hunger.

GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3 explores how youth confronts raw emotion, taking listeners on a journey of temptation, rebellion, and wavering to uncover the true nature of feelings. Amid the fast-paced rhythm of daily life, emotions are often suppressed, causing that thirst to intensify—an unquenchable desire that only grows stronger.

It’s a burning thirst that can no longer be delayed and reaching for something sweet yet dangerously tempting offers only momentary relief, never true satisfaction. The EP follows their journey as ATEEZ chooses the path less followed, reclaiming their emotions and rediscovering what once connected them to themselves and others.

The EP features five songs, with members HONGJOONG and MINGI taking part in writing the lyrics for four out of the five tracks on the album. The focus track “Lemon Drop,” is a seasonal song perfectly crafted for summer. Like a refreshing Lemon Drop cocktail, ATEEZ’s sweet and cool confession infuses hot summer days with excitement. You can watch the music video here and stream the album here.

LISTEN TO ‘GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3’

[GOLDEN HOUR : Part.3] TRACK LIST

  1. Lemon Drop **title track**
  2. Masterpiece
  3. Now this house ain’t a home
  4. Castle
  5. Bridge : The Edge of Reality

Following the announcement of their [IN YOUR FANTASY] world tour, which will begin in Incheon on July 5 and travel through the United States, Mexico, and Japan, this EP was released. At the end of August, ATEEZ will go to Mexico City and 11 American cities before performing in Japan. They reach new heights with this tour, bringing their immersive performances to even larger venues. They will perform in five North American stadiums, including two nights at the BMO Stadium.

For more about ATEEZ, visit: https://ateez.kqent.com/

ATEEZ SOCIALS:

INSTAGRAM (10.6M+) | TIKTOK (8.2M+) | X/TWITTER (4.3M+) | SPOTIFY (3.4M) | YOUTUBE (4.4M+)

INDIVIDUAL INSTAGRAM:

HONGJOONG | SEONGHWA | YUNHO | YEOSANG | SAN | MINGI | WOOYOUNG | JONGHO

Food, News

SHE Leads at Mondelēz International

  • Trailblazing Women taking the Lead and Breaking Traditional Roles
  • Policies, flexible work, and equal caregiver benefits drive inclusion in the workplace

SHE LEADS THE RIGHT WAY. (from L to R) Mondelēz International’s Plant Director Tanya Lim, Managing Director Aleli Arcilla, and General Counsel Mae Corona guide the organization’s journey towards its mission to empower people to snack right.

In the Philippines, Mondelēz International is dedicated to fostering an environment where inclusivity is ingrained in daily operations. This dedication is evident in the leaders as well as in the policies.

Women are now in charge of positions that have historically been held by men throughout the company. Aleli Arcilla, the organization’s first female country leader, serves as Managing Director. As General Counsel, Attorney Mae Corona offers strategic counsel to the entire organization. Additionally, Tanya Lim, the company’s first female Plant Lead, is in charge of manufacturing. Their participation in these roles isn’t merely symbolic; rather, it’s the outcome of a climate at work where leaders are empowered by their abilities rather than their gender.

TRAILBLAZER. Managing Director Aleli Arcilla leads the organization as the first female managing director of Mondelēz International in the Philippines.

“Growing up, I didn’t think gender was a barrier,” shares Arcilla. “But when I entered sales, I realized how often women were left out of the conversations that matter. There’s a bias that once women become mothers, they’re no longer as committed to their roles. That’s simply not true.”

Mondelēz International’s commitment to inclusion is deeply rooted in its structures and systems. Workplace flexibility is built into the culture, with hybrid arrangements and personal leaves that support both collaboration and balance. Parental leave policies go beyond compliance, offering inclusive benefits for solo parents and caregivers regardless of family structure or birth method.

“For me, the work flexibility at Mondelēz International is priceless,” says Corona. “The company has found a good balance between allowing employees to come to the office to meaningfully connect with colleagues and being able to work from home.”

Corona’s journey to leadership was defined by clarity of purpose. “Like everyone else, I rose from the ranks—starting as a Junior Associate in a law firm, then moving to an in-house role 14 years ago. Becoming the Head of Legal for a multination company had always been my target role, so I kept my eyes on the prize.”

Lim’s path was similarly driven by curiosity and commitment. “I’ve always had an interest in how things work,” she says. “Engineering was a natural choice, and from there it became a career.” But early on, being heard was a challenge. “In my earlier days, the issue was getting people to listen. Over time, I proved my capability to lead.”

BREAKING THE MOLD. Plant Director Tanya Lim more than earned her seat at the table in an industry traditionally dominated by men, demonstrating that leadership knows no gender or boundaries.

More recently, she faced a different kind of balancing act—one shared by many working mothers. “The plant runs 24 hours a day and issues don’t follow schedule. Working remotely isn’t an option for my specific role.” What helped, Lim says, is a culture that genuinely values inclusion. “Mondelēz International has given me equal opportunity and fair treatment, and I’m very grateful for that.”

This culture of inclusion doesn’t stop at gender. Employees across a wide range of identities and orientations are supported through frameworks that reinforce fairness, safety, and respect. From mentoring programs to succession planning, the company ensures leadership development is inclusive by design.

Arcilla notes, “Mondelēz International culture recognizes that each person brings something unique. Flexible work, caregiver benefits, and equal leave policies create an environment where people—especially women—don’t have to choose between family and career. That’s what makes the difference.”

And for the next generation of women in the workplace, these leaders aim to model what’s possible.

EYE ON THE PRIZE. Atty. Mae Corona had the ultimate career ambition of one day becoming a legal head of a global organization which she has now realized as the General Counsel of Mondelēz International.

“Everything starts at home,” says Corona. “Allowing my daughter to see me in a key position—while still growing and learning every day—matters most to me.”

Lim echoes the sentiment: “I want to keep growing talent and helping others unlock their potential. I also see myself as proof that women can lead in any field they choose.”

Their advice to young women: Stay curious, stay grounded, and stay resilient. “Learn as much as you can and value every experience,” Lim shares. “Tap into your perseverance and grit—because in this field, problems can be solved, and skills can be learned. What sets you apart is your mindset.”

“Gender doesn’t matter as much as technical skills, emotional intelligence, and authenticity,” adds Corona. “That’s what leadership is built on.”

Aleli concludes by advising anyone walking a similar route to “find your voice.” Like everyone else, you deserve to be in the room. Additionally, while you are in that room, remember to assist others in entering.

In the Philippines, Mondelēz International keeps creating a workplace where everyone, regardless of gender or background, can achieve by creating systems that represent the actual demands of its workers.

Sustainability Index. Visit www.mondelezinternational.com or follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDLZ.

Visit https://ph.mondelezinternational.com/home

 

 

 

Lifestyle, Tech

Globe offers the next generation of changemakers more than just books to devour

Globe is supporting a new generation of Filipino students who are redefining what it means to be changemakers, from artists and community advocates to student leaders and tech innovators.

The company continues to provide opportunities for students nationwide to find their purpose, express their creativity, and transform audacious ideas into tangible impact through its Globe Community Builders Program. Through volunteer activities, creative platforms, mentorships, and internships, Globe is assisting in bridging the gap between academic life and practical experience.

And for these four young trailblazers, that support has made all the difference.

From org member to intern, now building communities

Christiane Guanzon of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas first encountered Globe at a campus “Kapihan” session. Back then, he thought Globe was just a telco. Today, he’s an intern—and a key part of Globe’s youth engagement efforts.

Christiane Guanzon (Left) of De La Salle University – Dasmariñas Junior Marketing Association and his co-members Alexandra Jhane P. Cruz, Ma. Katrina A. Velarde, and Coleen Ysavel M. Sotoya

“I used to think Globe was just about tech. But through all these events and conversations, I saw how much they genuinely invest in community-building,” Christiane reflects.

His journey moved quickly: from attending a Marvel screening to volunteering at Pitch Day, a Globe-led initiative that gives student organizations a platform to present their passion projects and receive expert feedback, mentorship, and potential support from the brand. Held at The Globe Tower, Pitch Day brings together youth leaders, mentors, and Globe teams in one collaborative space to nurture ideas that aim to create social good.

Christiane didn’t just assist in organizing the event—he also stood beside fellow student leaders, mentoring and cheering them on.

“It’s rare to find brands that really trust young people,” he says. “Globe didn’t just let me in the room—they gave me responsibilities, mentorship, and encouragement to lead.”

Turning grief into art, and art into advocacy

When Technological University of the Philippines student Miguel Isiah Diva painted Tails and Trails as a tribute to his late dog, Bochok, he never expected it to change the course of his creative path. But winning the Globe x Art Toys Online Contest opened new doors—giving him a platform and a purpose.

Miguel Isiah Diva (left) painting his artwork that won him champion during the Globe x Art Toys Online Contest,

“Winning that contest made me feel seen,” Miguel shares. “As a student, as an artist, and as someone who simply wanted to tell a story that mattered to me.”

The recognition led to a live mural collaboration at Art in the Park, where Miguel joined other artists in painting for Pawssion Project, an animal welfare group supported by Globe.

“It wasn’t just about the art,” Miguel adds. “It was the people I met, the mission behind it, and the feeling that my creativity had a place in the world. Globe helped me realize that my voice—and my brush—can make a difference.”

From outsider to startup founder with a mission

When Franchezka Zapanta moved from Mindanao to Manila for college, she felt like an outsider. Most of her early university years were spent online, and adjusting to the pace of city life was overwhelming. But when she began attending Globe’s youth events, something shifted.

Franchezka Zapanta, Founder of BitDigest.io, Trilz, & now a youth mentor during the Globe Community Builders Pitch Day.

“Showing up was my silent act of courage,” she says. “Then one day, I realized: I didn’t feel out of place anymore. I felt welcome.”

That sense of belonging helped her grow. She became president of DLSU SCALE, the university’s startup org, and launched BitDigest.io, a tech platform that she unveiled at The Globe Tower.

At Pitch Day 2025, Franchezka returned—not as a participant, but as a mentor, guiding other young leaders through their own journeys.

“When brands like Globe believe in you, you start to believe in yourself too,” she says. “And that’s when real change begins.”

Creative courage, expressed in every color

Jessie James Valera, a dentistry student from Our Lady of Fatima University, found an unexpected platform for creative freedom through Globe. Outside the classroom, Jessie explores identity and artistry through bold fashion, performance, and makeup—blending disciplines to create what they call “wearable stories.”

Jessie during the Globe KmmunityPH x K-Leidoscope Kmmunity Party

“My art isn’t just about the look—it’s about telling a story, expressing emotion, and connecting with others,” Jessie says.

Globe gave Jessie the chance to be part of Art Fair Philippines and Art in the Park, where they met fellow creatives and found a welcoming space to grow their unique style. Through Globe events like Kmmunity Reveluv Night, Jessie also discovered a supportive community that encourages individuality and celebrates authenticity.

“What I learned from all this is that believing in your creative voice—even if it feels different or unconventional—can take you places,” Jessie shares. “I hope other students realize that their quirks are their strengths.”

More than a telco

“At Globe, we’re committed to supporting the Filipino youth—helping them shape their creative journeys and become co-builders of the future,” said Andrew Lim, Lead for Marketing Youth Cultures.

Through activism, leadership, technology, and the arts, students across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao are realizing their full potential. When given the proper assistance, individuals aren’t only taking part in the future. They are constructing it.

Globe’s student programs may be found at https://www.globe.com.ph/community-builder.