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Vic Vic Bautista

Entertainment

Denise Julia’s captivating EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), sets a new level

The 9-track record also features collaborations with Filipina R&B star DENȲ, Vietnamese-American star thuy, and R&B King of the Philippines Jay R
 

With the release of her new EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), which is distributed exclusively by Sony Music Entertainment, Denise Julia solidifies her status as one of the most significant voices in Filipino R&B.

Her songwriting has reached a new level of sophistication with the nine-track CD, which touches on the well-known topics from the 2023 EP while navigating emotional honesty and insight beyond her years.

“The stories are more real, the production has these rich new textures, and overall, it’s way more intimate,” says the prolific recording star. “This chapter is me opening up more about who I am, especially after coming out earlier this year. I think my writing’s gotten a little more reckless and freer—I’m just saying what I want to say without holding back.”

Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2) embodies every aspect of Denise Julia: the real person stepping out of the limelight and online fanfare, stripped to the core with nothing but life lessons and bittersweet endings. On her latest EP, she candidly expressed the feelings of being vulnerable and in love, and putting on a brave face even when confronted by the difficult times.

Denise Julia’s songwriting, characterized by unsparing confessionals that explore her sexuality and the messy nature of adolescent life choices, shines brighter this time around—a proof that there’s a silver lining in openness. In Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), the R&B/soul vixen doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out, but she knows that through her storytelling, she would inspire more women and queer folks to go with their gut feel and embrace the love and respect they truly deserve.

“I wanted to capture those bittersweet moments of love and self-discovery—the real stuff we don’t always put into words,” DJ adds. “My inspiration was a mix of personal experiences, growing into myself, and just the feelings people keep bottled up but wish they could say out loud.”

Denise Julia’s latest EP draws a lot from classic R&B but doesn’t shy away from embracing its modern edge. Whether it’s a sensual bop straight from the Aaliyah/Brandy playbook or a confessional ballad that reveals moments of unfiltered fragility, the B.A.D. hitmaker knows when to lurch forward or snap back with her chameleonic but sultry singing style. For this EP, she hones her contemporary R&B sound with touches of soul and pop, going for something that is both nostalgic and fresh.

Some of the highlights of the EP include the focus track “sweet nothings,” a collaboration with Jay R, the R&B King of the Philippines. Propelling the narrative forward with transcendent moments of harmony and sensual bliss, the song tackles the honeymoon-phase feeling in a relationship where everything feels so good that you don’t want to let go.

According to the ‘Patron Saint of Situationships,’ as the fans often call her, working with Jay R was a dream come true. “He understands R&B on such a deep level, and having his influence really elevated the song. I feel like if you told young Denise that she would collaborate with the King of R&B in the future, she would have never believed you, so this is such a monumental thing for me. He’s the best at what he does, and I hope to take what I’ve learned from working with him into my own craft.”

Other notable collaborations in the EP were the DENȲ-assisted “don’t matter,” which showcases the duo’s effortlessly sultry side while maintaining their individuality throughout the process, and “twin flames,” which features Vietnamese-American artist thuy. Denise Julia considers both artists an inspiration, with each adding their own flavor to the material.

Here is the track list for Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2):

  1. better than he does
  2. sweet nothings (feat. Jay R)
  3. thinkin’ bout you
  4. twin flames (feat. thuy)
  5. (boy it’s just) attraction
  6. inhibitions
  7. bet
  8. there’s no way you’d want me back
  9. don’t matter (feat. DENȲ)

Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), Denise Julia’s latest EP, is currently available on all digital music platforms globally through Sony Music Entertainment.

Additionally, Denise Julia will soon be the main act in her solo show! For information and announcements in the future, go to www.denisejulia.com.

November 8, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle

The 2025 Calendar Girl Ginebra San Miguel is Asia’s Limitless Star

The world’s best-selling gin manufacturer, Ginebra San Miguel, celebrated the 190th year of its flagship brand by announcing Asia’s Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose as the 2025 and 34th Ginebra San Miguel Calendar Girl. The media and other guests attended the launch, which took place at the Diamond Hotel in Manila.

The epithet ‘Asia’s Limitless Star’ was bestowed upon Julie Anne San Jose, a Filipina singer, songwriter, actress, host, instrumentalist, and television personality, for her almost endless array of skills. Julie Anne has consistently reinvented herself for her fans since 2005 by adhering to her artistic vision and succeeding in a cutthroat industry with her enthusiasm and “never-say-die” character, just like Ginebra San Miguel has endured changing times and stayed relevant to customers.

It was such an awesome event. We enjoyed everything, including the scrumptious food, great performances, and of course the revelation of their newest calendar girl of the year. Julie Anne truly deserves to be this year’s calendar feature, as she carries on her grace and firmness that really define the brand. I’m also glad to meet her and have her insight regarding this opportunity.

“Her dedication to her craft and resilience in the industry mirrors Ginebra San Miguel’s 190-year legacy of excellence, making her the perfect choice for our next Calendar Girl,” says GSMI Marketing Manager Ron Molina.  

With Obra Maestra (Masterpiece) as the theme for the 2025 calendars, the multi-awarded singer brings to life six visual compositions, creating a stunning collection of timeless masterpieces.  

“For 190 years, Ginebra San Miguel has crafted masterpieces in every bottle, offering only the finest in distilled spirits. Our next calendar continues to uphold GSMI’s heritage of excellence with a tribute to classic art, reflecting the same dedication to quality craftsmanship that has made our gin popular and loved by many since 1834,” Mr. Molina added.  

A staple in Kapuso musical and variety shows with her show stopping song and dance numbers, Julie Anne San Jose is currently the judge of The Voice Kids Philippines and the host of singing competition The Clash.

JULIE ANNE IN OBRA MAESTRA

Ginebra San Miguel has always been known for its iconic label by National Artist Fernando Amorsolo. In this first layout, she embodies the courage and determination of a fearless Filipina ready to face any challenge.

Inspired by this timeless masterpiece, Julie Anne is portrayed as a muse and goddess, showcasing her artistry and elegance in five other classic artworks.   

Dressed in white, the second layout depicts Julie Anne as “Galatea,” Pygmalion’s sculpture of his ideal woman brought to life by Aphrodite. This symbolizes creativity and passion in art, much like how GSM Blue Flavors can be creatively mixed and matched to create a unique and personalized drink.  

The third layout features the Grape Escape cocktail mix, “Paris Opera Terpsichore,” showcasing Julie Anne as the muse of lyric, poetry, and dance. Julie Anne is truly elegant in this layout, just like how premium and sophisticated Primera Light Brandy is.  

In the fourth layout, Julie Anne is portrayed as “Diana,” the huntress, symbolizing independence and strength. Showcasing Kula Orange Fizz cocktail mix, Julie Anne is sure to ignite a bold new strength to Vino Kulafu drinkers. Julie Anne felt a particular connection to this layout among all the layouts. “Aside from having an earthy set-up because I’m a nature lover, the bow and arrow in this layout resonate with me as an artist. It symbolizes my constant pursuit of improvement, my quest to explore new horizons and the world further.”  

In the fifth and sixth layouts, Julie Anne embodies the timeless beauty of “The Birth of Venus” and “La Grande Odalisque.” Symbolizing beauty, grace, and quality, these iconic paintings invite consumers to savor the refined taste of GSM Premium Gin and Antonov Vodka, respectively.  

As in previous years, the 2025 Ginebra San Miguel calendar features a QR code that consumers can scan using their smartphones to watch and learn more about Julie Anne’s signature cocktail mixes using Ginebra San Miguel products.  

The new face of Ginebra San Miguel is also a certified gin enthusiast, with gin & tonic as her go-to cocktail. Julie Anne’s connection with Ginebra San Miguel is also deeply rooted in her personal history. “Growing up, I always saw my lolo drink Ginebra San Miguel. Ginebra has always been part of our lives for every gathering, whether Christmas, birthday parties, or just a simple celebration.”  

As the new muse of Ginebra San Miguel, Julie Anne aims to inspire women and fans alike with her ‘ganado’ and ‘never-say-die’ attitude. Her journey demonstrates that success is built on hard work, passion, and resilience. She is truly a limitless icon who motivates others to pursue their dreams, embrace their individuality, and unlock their creative potential.

THE GINEBRA CALENDAR TRADITION

 A significant aspect of GSMI’s past and a longstanding custom is the Ginebra San Miguel Calendar Girl. Models, TV and film actresses, and beauty queens who have achieved success in their various industries have graced the Ginebra San Miguel calendar since its beginning in 1988. Marian Rivera (2009 and 2014), Anne Curtis (2011), Solenn Heusaff (2012), Pia Wurtzbach (2019), Miss Universe 2015, Sanya Lopez (2020), Christelle Abello (2021), Chie Filomeno (2022), Yassi Pressman (2023), and Heaven Peralejo (2024) were listed among them.

Ginebra San Miguel, the best-selling gin in the world, is made by GSMI. Other high-quality distilled spirits from GSMI include Gin & Tea, Ginebra San, GSM Blue Light Gin, GSM Blue Mojito, GSM Blue Margarita, GSM Blue Gin Pomelo, and GSM Blue Lychee Martini. Archangel Reserve Premium Dry Gin, Miguel Premium Gin, 1834 Premium Distilled Gin, Antonov Vodka, Freedom Island Light Rum, Primera Light Brandy, and Vino Kulafu, the top Chinese wine in the Philippines.

November 7, 2024 by
Sports

Triumph in Canada! Undefeated Filipino Curling Team Wins Pan Continental Curling Championships

  • Curling Pan Continental Championships: Philippines win B-division
  • Advancement to A-division brings team closer to Olympic dream
  • Entrepreneur Alan Frei’s team remains undefeated

The Philippine curling team made history at the Pan-Continental Curling Championships in Canada: in a thrilling tournament, the team was the only one to remain undefeated and secured first place in the B division by beating Kazakhstan in the final. This historic triumph paves the way for the team to move up to the A-Division and brings them a big step closer to realizing their dream of competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina.

In the twelve intense games, the team, consisting of Christian Haller (vice), Enrico Pfister (second), Marc Pfister (skip) and Alan Frei (lead), showed their extraordinary strength and determination. The victories in the preliminary round against strong opponents such as Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and Puerto Rico already demonstrated the team’s strong teamwork, but the road to the final was not without challenges: In the semi-final against Hong Kong, the team mastered a hard-fought victory, demonstrating its strong nerves and team harmony. In the final against Kazakhstan, an opponent they had already narrowly defeated, they triumphed with confidence on Saturday afternoon.

Team skip Marc Pfister emphasizes: “This promotion to the A Division is an incredible achievement and the result of tireless work. We have grown as a team and proven that we can deliver under pressure. Now we are looking forward to the next challenge, playing against the best teams in the world and tackling the qualification for the Olympics.”

“This is incredible, I’m overwhelmed by what we’ve achieved here!” says Alan Frei. “This last year has been an intense learning process for all of us – from the first time on the ice to this decisive moment here at the Pan Continentals. Today, all the training, passion and determination paid off. I’m really looking forward to the upcoming Olympic qualifiers!”

The next step: qualifying tournaments for Milano Cortina 2026

With their promotion to the A Division, Team Philippines will now face the best curling teams in the world. This new challenge opens up the possibility of qualifying for the 2025 Olympics in two (pre-)qualifying tournaments – a goal that is now within reach.

Team vice-captain Christian Haller said: “This success is proof of what can be achieved when you work as a team and aim for the impossible. The Philippines are united behind us – and we’ve also received an incredible amount of support from Switzerland – and that’s a huge motivation for us as we face the next challenges!”

With their unique blend of Swiss precision and Filipino passion, the Philippines team has established itself as a true underdog in the curling scene, comparable to iconic sports stories such as the Jamaican bobsled team and ‘Eddie the Eagle’.

About the team

  • Christian Haller (Vice): With 26 years of curling experience, Haller brings the technical know-how to the team.
  • Enrico Pfister (Second): Supports the team with his many years of experience at the international level.
  • Marc Pfister (Skip): The experienced curler and Enrico’s brother leads the team with strategic skill.
  • Alan Frei (Lead): The entrepreneur, who underwent a complete transformation, is the heart of the team with his story “From obese to Olympics”.

Next tournaments

  • February 7-14, 2025: Asian Winter Games, Harbin, China
  • October 17-24, 2025: Pre-Qualifier (location tba)
  • November 2-9, 2025: Pan Continental Curling Championship (World Cup qualifier)
  • December 6-20, 2025: Olympic Qualifier (location tba)

Game Plan & Results Team Philippines

November 7, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

PetPal is offering vaccinations for fur babies at home

As their newest service, home vaccinations are now accessible on PetPal, the first pet care super app in the Philippines!

This new service’s October launch coincides with National Pet Wellness Month, reminding pet parents of the value of making regular veterinary examinations and preventive treatment a priority in order to keep their animals healthy and happy throughout the year.

Many pet owners in the Philippines only visit the vet in an emergency. According to a Royal Canin survey, 80% of Filipino pet owners postpone visits until their animals are sick or in need of emergency care. PetPal wants to alter this reactive strategy.

“Our services in PetPal were developed with our customers in mind–allowing them to have more control and flexibility in caring for their pets. Our home vaccinations are no different,” said Martin Luchangco, General Manager of PetPal.

Luchangco highlighted that every home vaccination service ensures pets’ records are instantly updated in the PetPal app, simplifying the process for pet parents to monitor and stay on schedule for their pets’ next vaccinations.

He added, “We want to build that habit of proactive care with our customers, with the PetPal App serving as their digital petcare companion and connecting them to the resources and services they need through our platform.”

Currently, PetPal’s home vaccinations are available within Metro Manila, including cities like Taguig, Makati, Pateros, Pasig, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Marikina, Quezon City, Navotas, Caloocan, Valenzuela, Manila, Pasay, Paranaque, Las Pinas. Service areas also extend to parts of Rizal, Laguna, Cavite, and Bulacan.

Available vaccines include Anti-Rabies and Kennel Cough, as well as combination vaccines like the 5-in-1, 6-in-1, and 8-in-1 for dogs, and the 4-in-1 for cats, with more to come.

Vaccinations start at just P300, excluding professional fees and add-ons.

Pet owners simply need to log into their PetPal app,

  1. select their preferred vaccination schedule
  2. choose a veterinarian, and;
  3. confirm the appointment.

To ensure availability, it is recommended to book at least one week in advance.

Holistic pet care in just one app!

PetPal continues to lead innovation in pet healthcare, empowering Filipino owners with holistic solutions to keep their companions healthy and happy.

The home vaccination service enhances the platform’s existing lineup, catering to all types of pets. This includes:

  • Quick Assist – an AI-powered chatbot that answers pet parents’ immediate questions and guides them in their next steps;
  • Teleconsultations – available as via on-demand or scheduled video or chat consultation, pet owners can directly consult with a professional about their pet’s condition.
  • Home vet visits – be it for vaccinations or a physical assessment, pet owners can schedule an in-person consultation with our registered vets
  • Home grooming – now available on the app and covering Metro Manila.
    • Home service for condominium owners are still in the works.

Pet owners can download the PetPal app on Android and iOS to find out more about the home vaccination service and other services.

November 4, 2024 by
Sports

RAIN OR SHINE OWNER TERRY QUE: A Range of Feelings Following the Governor’s Cup Campaign

Terry Que, a co-owner of Rain or Shine (RoS) Elasto Painters, was both pleased and disappointed with the team’s performance in the just finished PBA Governor’s Cup.

The franchise, which Raymund Yu also co-owns, saw its season campaign come to a premature end after losing their best-of-seven series to the Tropang Giga on TNT.

Since the Elasto painters were pitted against the more seasoned TNT Tropang Giga, just making it to the semifinals is itself a significant accomplishment. It was a difficult task, but regardless of the result, RoS learned an important lesson.

“Nakarating kami ng semifinals for the first time sa mahabang panahon. Malaking achievement na yun. Pagdating dito, alam naman namin na malakas yung kalaban namin,” said Que. “Alam naman namin na mahirap sila talunin sa series. Pero umasa kami na maka-isa, maka-dalawa. Kaya saying”, added Que.

While the team displayed flashes of brilliance and fought hard in every game, inconsistencies and injuries ultimately ended their playoff run.

“We had a good start to the conference, but we had some challenges” Que admitted. “It’s frustrating but we have to learn from our mistakes and come back stronger next season. Tsaka sabi ni Coach Yeng positive lang. So, positive din kami” shared Que.

The Elasto painters began the conference with a strong 3-0 record, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive intensity. However, during the middle of the season, RoS experienced a dip in form, losing several crucial games and dropping to the middle of the team standings.

The Elasto painters made a late push to climb back into contention, but it was not enough to secure a playoff berth. Other factors include injuries to several key players, disrupting the team’s chemistry and depth.

Rain or Shine has shown signs of promise despite the dismal ending. The Elasto Painters can strive to be a formidable force in the forthcoming Philippine Cup with a healthier team and increased consistency.

The team learned an important lesson from their performance in the Governor’s Cup. Rain or Shine will also be hoping to get stronger in the league and learn from their mistakes as the PBA season progresses.

October 31, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

More than 140,000 people in Rizal Province will benefit from Manila Water’s third septage treatment plant

Expected to be completed by September 2025, the Pinugay SpTP will have a 50-cubic-meter capacity and is projected to provide sanitation treatment services to 143,612 residents of Baras,Teresa, Cardona, Jala-jala, and Morong in Rizal Province.
 

The P141.5-million Pinugay Septage Treatment Plant (SpTP), Manila Water’s third septage treatment plant (SpTP), is scheduled to be built in Barangay San Jose, Antipolo City, with the intention of preserving the environment and public health.

The Pinugay SpTP is anticipated to be finished by September 2025 and will have a 50- cubic-meter capacity and is anticipated to offer services for sanitary treatment to Baras, Teresa, Cardona, Jala-jala, and Morong are home to 143,612 people.

The plant, which is being constructed on a 35,032-square-meter lot adjacent to Pinugay Road, will be equipped with cutting-edge technology for wastewatermanagement. Key components of the project include septage acceptance tanks, grease storage tanks, a dewatering system, a membrane-aerated biofilm reactor, and a disinfection facility, among others. These implements help stabilize and treat septage, killing harmful pathogens and ensuring proper wastewater treatment for the community.

With this new septage treatment plant, the company aims to support the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) in expanding sanitation services in the East Zone concession area while ensuring strict compliance with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Orders 2016-08 and 2021-19 on environmental standards.

“The Pinugay Septage Treatment Plant is not just a response to increasing wastewater management needs; it is also a significant step toward improving public health and environmental sustainability in Rizal Province,” Project Manager Jocelyn Pagsaligan said.

The water corporation aims to improve the environmental and public health of Rizal province by expanding its high-quality sanitation services to other towns in the East Zone concession area.

October 31, 2024 by
Food

During the Masskara Festival, Coca-Cola Philippines and Bacolod City encourage bottle collection and segregation

Coca-Cola Philippines and the Bacolod City Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO) collaborated to promote the collecting and segregation of PET plastic bottles during the 45th Masskara Festival, which took place in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, from October 11–27, 2024. The beverage firm facilitated the collecting and sorting of used PET bottles, educating festival attendees about appropriate waste management methods in collaboration with Yuhum Foundation, the festival organizer, and Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc.

Coca-Cola Philippines urged festival goers to dispose of their empty PET bottles at the Coca-Cola bottle counter and The Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM) exchange booths at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) in order to promote bottle collection and segregation. In order to take part in other games and activities, attendees also traded empty bottles.

One of the highlights was the MassKara mask-making contest, where festival-goers cast their votes for the Best Recycled Mask on display using bottle caps. Artisticrew was named the grand winner, while Bacolod City College and the Negrese Artist Circle received consolation prizes for their participation.

Additionally, attendees took part in the “Dunk, Not Junk” shooting hoops game. As they showcased their shooting skills, players had the chance to win a variety of Coca-Cola merchandise and other exciting prizes.

Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. ‘s (CCBPI) flagship nationwide collection program, “Tapon to Ipon: Basta Klaro, Panalo!” featured a pop-up collection booth. In its second year at the MassKara Festival, Tapon to Ipon encouraged attendees to drop off used clear PET plastic bottles of any brand, allowing them to win prizes.  

During the festival’s closing program, Ruby Biro, Senior Franchise Operations Manager of Coca-Cola Philippines, commended all the local barangays and partners who helped make the waste management effort a success. She underlined how crucial it is to involve the community and how festival attendees may celebrate while having a beneficial environmental impact.

October 30, 2024 by
Entertainment

Bullet Dumas, Shirebound, Dicta License, The Ridleys, Munimuni, Ena Mori and more to headline GNN Year-End Party

The Manila-based events production caps off a great year in live music

GNN (Gabi Na Naman Productions), an events and multimedia company, wraps up 2024 with an inaugural party that celebrates a festive year in live music.

Aptly titled “Gabi Na Naman Year-End Party,” the annual mini music fest will take place at 123 Block in Mandaluyong City on November 29, 2024 (Friday), from 5 p.m. onwards.

This year’s edition not only commemorates the production company’s commitment to championing the Filipino creative spirit but also aims to uphold its mission of mounting concerts and events built on the foundation of community building and inclusivity.

OPM heavyweights Shirebound (formerly known as Shirebound & Busking), Bullet Dumas, and Dicta License will be the headlining Gabi Na Naman Year-End Party, along with indie favorites Ena Mori, Munimuni, The Ridleys, and DJ Jiggawho. The star-studded lineup will also feature breakthrough newcomers Pinkmen, Ysanyo, (e)motion engine, Amateurish, and ALYSON.

The show will be part of JDOS Playlist LIVE, a music-focused initiative by Jack Daniel’s Philippines. The series of live gigs, as expertly presented by the No. 1 US whiskey brand and its partner productions, will put a spotlight on next-generation artists who have shown immense potential in breaking out of the mold and elevating their craft as musicians.

Tickets to Gabi Na Naman Year End Party are available via bit.ly/gnnyep24 for PHP 600 only (early bird price) with a free Jack Coke!

October 30, 2024 by
Automotive

Emergency roadside support for drivers during the Undas break is announced by Toyota

Select Toyota dealerships to offer the assistance from October 31 to November 3

This Undas season, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) prioritizes customer safety by providing free emergency roadside assistance from October 31 to November 3.

The following participating dealerships are offering free assistance to drivers en route to their destinations:

Customers can go to https://www.toyota.com.ph/promos/toyota-motorist-assistance-campaign-emergency-roadside-assistance-undas-2024 for additional details.

Join the ToyotaPH Viber community and follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram and X to receive updates on Toyota events, promotions, and products.

October 29, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

The business development program at BPI assists new businesses

Corinthian Anne Valenton, owner of Corrsy’s Kitchen, offers Cheese Pimiento spread and Langka Calamansi jam. Corrsy’s Kitchen is one of the winners of SEAL-SEGA.

The top 40 small businesses and top 20 nanobusinesses from this year’s Small Enterprise Acceleration Lab (SEAL) program were recently revealed by the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), in collaboration with Bayan Academy, through its social development division, the BPI Foundation (BPIF).

The SEAL Project Series was established in 2022 with the goal of empowering young entrepreneurs as well as micro and nano businesses. For small business owners hoping to grow and maintain their operations, SEAL has emerged as a ray of light thanks to its strategic interventions and practical advice.

Over 200 entrepreneurs received priceless training in marketing, operations optimization, and product and service development over the course of the last year from the SEAL-Small Enterprise Growth Agenda (SEAL-SEGA). Beyond merely imparting knowledge, the curriculum provided customized solutions that tackled the issues these companies had. In addition to receiving information, top-performing businesses also benefited from financial awards and professional mentoring to support their expansion.

This year, BPIF honored 40 enterprises that showcased outstanding potential, providing them with cash grants ranging from Php80,000 to Php120,000. These businesses, now empowered to implement their strategic plans, will continue to benefit from ongoing mentorship.

OhMi Krafts, one of the winners of SEAL-BEGIN, customizes souvenirs from polymer clays, beads, wood, and succulents.

BPIF also introduced a new track this year called the SEAL-Business Education and Growth Initiative for Nano-entrepreneurs (SEAL-BEGIN). SEAL-BEGIN provided fundamental training and resources to support aspiring entrepreneurs, with a focus on integrating digital-age opportunities.

For SEAL-BEGIN, over 240 registrants participated in the program, with 20 nano-enterprises being recognized for their promising potential and innovative ideas. The participants received entrepreneurial training and were encouraged to leverage local and government resources to enhance their business ventures.

“We have witnessed the entrepreneurs’ determination through the program, and we’re excited to see how they will scale their businesses in the future. It has been an honor to be part of their journey,” said Carmina Marquez, BPIF Executive Director. “BPI Foundation is committed to empowering small enterprises, and we believe that with the right support, these entrepreneurs can significantly contribute to economic growth and financial inclusion. We look forward to seeing their continued success as they transform their visions into reality.”

The SEAL program series has provided substantial monetary grants to numerous businesses since its launch. The initiative is supporting a thriving and creative business ecosystem nationwide by providing extensive training, financial assistance, and mentorship.

October 29, 2024 by