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 increasingwastewater management needs; it is also a significant step toward improvingpublic 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.
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 frompolymer 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.
Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Youth Philippines ranks 4 out of the 113+ entry submissions in Asia.
Five youth-led initiatives driving equitable transition and skills training selected from Asia Pacific and will receive a 50,000-euro prize.
As part of the company’s global “Youth Innovation for a Sustainable Future” Call for Projects, which was launched in honor of the Foundation’s 25th anniversary, Schneider Electric Foundation recently designated Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Youth Philippines as one of the five winners. Through entrepreneurship, skill development, and a just transition, the program, which received hundreds of proposals from two continents, honors youth-led projects that are leading the way in creative solutions for a more sustainable future.
The global call, which was organized in partnership with Ashoka’s Changemaker Companies program, seeks to determine which 25 of the participating areas’ (Africa & Middle East, Europe, Americas, and Asia) most creative and influential youth-serving initiatives are the most impactful. Professional training, entrepreneurship, and a just energy transition are the main topics of this international call for donations.
SDSN Youth Philippines is a program under the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network launched in 2012 to advance global expertise on the Sustainable Development Goals. They will receive a 10,000-euro prize as one of the winners from the Asia Pacific Region. In November 2024, Schneider Electric Foundation will announce the global winner chosen from the short-listed entries in Asia Pacific, The Americas, Africa, Europe and The Middle East at the COP29 climate summit in Baku, Azerbaijan. The winning foundation will get a 50,000-euro prize to fund its program and support from Schneider Electric Foundation and Ashoka.
Founded in 1999 under the aegis of the Foundation de France, the Schneider Electric Foundation supports changemakers driving just transition, promoting social inclusion, and empowering communities worldwide.
“The younger generation is playing an influential role in how we shape tomorrow’s innovative solutions. From the outset, our Foundation has valued the contribution of the Filipino youth, and therefore, considers the importance of supporting them to nurture future generations and our planet,” Atty. Norman Roland Ocana III, Head of Government Affairs at Schneider Electric Philippines, highlighted.
The 2024 “Youth Innovation for a Sustainable Future” other winners in Asia Pacific are:
The Women’s Foundation (Hong Kong) – Improving the lives of women and girls, by challenging gender stereotypes, increasing the number of women in leadership roles, and empowering women in poverty.
Yayasan Solar Chapter (Indonesia) – Empowering remote communities through education and development initiatives, building resilience to climate challenges, one step at a time.
Sambhav Foundation (India) – Addressing critical social issues such as unemployment, lack of quality education, inadequate healthcare, and the need for sustainable community development through targeted programs and impactful interventions.
Connecting Dreams (India) – Empowering youth to drive entrepreneurial actions that enhance livelihoods in sustainable ways, economically, socially, and environmentally.
After successful iterations in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific, the campaign is back in South and North America this year.
Renewed partnership launches programs supporting girls’ mental health and career development
Executives from Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons and Plan International renewed their partnership and signed a declaration of support as a continuing commitment to the agenda of accelerating social change for young women.
In photo from left to right Watsons Group Senior Category Manager, Zyra Tino ObiasPlan International Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion, Twyla David Watsons Director for People Innovations Projects, Jose Arriola Beiersdorf Sales Director, Jacques Baisa Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR & Sustainability, Sharon Decapia Plan International Executive Director, Ana Maria Locsin Beiersdorf Country Manager, Nimisha Jain Plan International Program Director, Cathy Seco Beirsdorf Head of Route to Markets, Josefa Manese
Girls hold the power to shape a brighter, more inclusive future—but far too many are held back by enduring biases and barriers that silence their voices, leave them isolated, and restrict their ability to realize their full potential. As the world celebrates the international Day of the Girl (IDG), there is a rousing call to action to create a world where girls are supported, included, and empowered to dream beyond limits.
Heeding this call, Beiersdorf Philippines, Watsons, and Plan International Pilipinas reaffirmed their partnership to intensify initiatives toward the upliftment of girls in the country.
Working side by side for two years now, the tripartite collaboration unites the members’ respective focus into a joint agenda charged to accelerate social change for young women. From last year’s programs and discussions about girl’s rights, gender equality, equitable and quality health services and economic resilience, the partnership expands their programs to include pressing concerns on understanding the disempowering impact of social isolation among girls, promoting mental health and wellbeing, as well as creating pathways for career development.
As a brand that cares beyond skin, NIVEA of Beiersdorf, advocates for an inclusive society and aims to foster social cohesion through its global social mission, NIVEA CONNECT. Addressing the rise of social isolation among young women is critical because loneliness and lack of social connection increase their vulnerability to social injustices and hinder their overall development.
Beauty retailer Watsons, on the other hand, aims to inspire holistic wellbeing, positivity and acts of care and kindness towards people, communities, and the planet. Part of its Sustainability goals under the People Pillar are their efforts to provide scholarships and career opportunities for the youth.
Meanwhile, Plan International Pilipinas, a development, humanitarian, child and youth-girl-centered organization working in the Philippines has been at the forefront of advancing children’s rights and equality for girls since 1961. According to Plan International Pilipinas, girls’ mental health is one of the core foundations for their success and well-being. By prioritizing self-care and seeking support, they empower themselves to thrive in both their careers and personal lives. Moreover, advocating for girls’ overall wellness is part of its agenda for girls’ rights and empowerment. It encourages them to exercise their rights, prioritize their overall health, and shape their futures.
For their IDG celebration, the three organizations mounted an event entitled “From Isolation to Inclusion: Empowering Girls, Shaping Futures,” that brought various stakeholders delivering learning modules on financial literacy, digital literacy, and career guidance to help girls from Punlaan School prepare for the future of work and navigate livelihood opportunities and professional empowerment.
Beiersdorf Philippines Country Manager Nimisha Jain in her opening remarks said, “NIVEA’s CARE BEYOND SKIN Sustainability Agenda is guiding all our actions across three critical areas: consumer, society and environment, forming a holistic approach. We want to “Care beyond Skin” by empowering women so that they can thrive. She also shared findings from a NIVEA global study on social isolation which revealed that young people between 16-24 (38%), hybrid workers (52%), and heavy social media users (34%) feel the most isolated in society. She explained that breaking the cycle of social isolation entails building connections, fostering community, and having access to mental health resources, which are key components of NIVEA CONNECT.
“This partnership today is a perfect example of all three elements coming together. I am confident that with our willing & committed partners, we can make a meaningful impact to empowering young women and transition them from Isolation to Inclusion”
For the panel discussion, Beiersdorf Philippines Sales Director Jacques Baisa, Watsons SAVP for Marketing Communications, PR and Sustainability, Sharon Decapia, and Plan International Pilipinas Portfolio Manager for Gender Equality and Inclusion Twyla David dived deep into social isolation – how it has disadvantaged girls for centuries, interventions and solutions needed to stop the stigma, and how communities can create a support system for those in need.
The event culminated with the turnover of the Php 1 million donation from Beiersdorf Philippines for the continuation of Watsons and Punlaan School Apprenticeship Program where students are trained with a TESDA certified curriculum to gain skills needed to succeed in the health and beauty retail space. Participants are also assured of a permanent job as Pharmacy Assistants in Watsons after they successfully complete the program.
Lastly, the tripartite partnership was renewed in a MOA signing and formal declaration of support, reinforcing the institutions’ continued collaborative efforts.
Watsons SAVP Sharon Decapia pointed out, “At Watsons, we understand that our responsibilities go beyond helping people care for their health and bring out their innate beauty. For us to be able to help girls become the best version of themselves, we have to open up avenues for learning and understanding what the future will be like, and what issues can affect them. This is what we have been doing with our partners – we are preparing them to be capable leaders of their families and communities.”
Plan International Pilipinas Executive Director Ana Maria Locsin said, “Today, we stand united with Beiersdorf and Watsons in our shared commitment to transforming the lives of Filipino girls and young women. The theme of this year’s partnership event on social isolation resonates deeply with our mission of advancing children’s rights and equality for girls in the country.”
“Gender equality and inclusion serve as powerful tools for understanding the barriers that prevent girls from accessing quality education, livelihood opportunities, and meaningful participation in decision-making. We firmly believe that when girls are empowered and included, they envision brighter futures for themselves and become catalysts for change, helping shape a world where we are all equal.”
For NIVEA, the fight against social isolation goes beyond the Philippines as it looks to set up local NIVEA CONNECT projects with partners in forty countries by 2026. All its efforts are in service of Beiersdorf’s long-term commitment to champion a more inclusive society.
Grow your family, grow your future. Quality homes designed for families by Nurtura Land and Home.
A crucial first step toward stability is locating a house that can accommodate your expanding family’s fluctuating requirements and financial constraints. With its mid-range housing brand, Nurtura Land and Home, Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), a real estate developer based in Mindanao, has responded to these demands.
Nurtura Land and Home provides well-thought-out and skillfully built homes that put quality, cost-effectiveness, and adaptive design first because it understands how important it is to build homes that can accommodate changing living standards and offer good value.
“Drawing from decades of experience in developing thriving communities in Davao City, Alsons Dev takes pride in creating spaces where families with diverse aspirations and lifestyles can thrive. Our Nurtura brand embodies this promise with family-centric designs that ensure safety, comfort, and great value, providing the perfect environment for families to grow and flourish,” said Alsons Dev President and CEO Miguel Dominguez.
Narra Park Residences: Where efficient planning meets quality living
Narra Park Residences, the maiden project of Nurtura Land & Home by Alsons Dev, was recognized as the Best Housing Development in Metro Davao at the PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards for both 2023 and 2024.
Narra Park Residences stands tall as a testament to Alsons Dev’s vision of creating harmonious living spaces at an accessible price point.
Recently recognized as the Best Housing Development in Mindanao at the 2024 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, Narra Park Residences Avia continues Alsons Dev’s commitment to providing vibrant living spaces for more families in the SOX Region.
Its counterpart, Narra Park Residences Avia, which is located within SOCCSKSARGEN’s very first mixed-use development, Avia Estate in Alabel, Sarangani, also carries the signature qualities of Alsons Dev’s residential communities under its Nurtura brand.
The variety of housing units for both Nurtura projects—from bungalows to two-story homes—cater to diverse preferences and family needs. These homes feature compact yet space-efficient layouts to maximize functionality and ensure every square foot is usable. Also, the generous lot sizes allow for a garage and garden, ideal for growing families.
“It all begins with strategic space planning,” says Tricia A. Dizon, a Makati-based interior decorator with whom Alsons Dev frequently collaborates. “Alsons Dev’s in-house planners put a lot of thought into the future homeowners’ needs and preferences. We work together to conceptualize and determine the purpose of each space and how prospective buyers intend to use it in everyday living. This becomes our guiding star in creating functional and efficient homes tailored for future homeowners.”
Alsons Dev’s commitment to efficient planning also extends to construction quality. Every project undergoes rigorous inspections, ensuring each home meets the highest safety standards.
“Alsons Dev’s commitment to excellence is evident from concept to execution,” said Greric Santos, proprietor of Greco Construction who worked on the Narra Park Residence projects in Davao and Sarangani. “I can vouch for their high standards for quality because I see how their Construction Management team enforces them rigorously on contractors like myself.”
Designed for a balanced lifestyle
Nurtura Land and Home builds communities that go beyond just homes, offering expansive outdoor spaces for today’s modern families
Beyond developing houses, Narra Park Residences in Davao and Avia Estate also offer a community-centric environment. Both developments feature expansive green spaces and large parks that encourage social interaction. Family-friendly amenities like pools and multi-purpose courts not only promote an active lifestyle within the neighborhood but also foster a sense of belonging and connection.
The resident’s safety and peace of mind are given top priority, as seen in the 24/7 guarded entrance, perimeter walls, and dual gates that double as access points to essential establishments. In the case of Narra Park Residences Avia, a public safety and security complex that integrates police, fire, and emergency response stations is being built close to the residential area, ensuring a secure and peaceful living environment.
Arch. Patrick Tan, Principal Architect of PCTAN Architects and Associates and longtime collaborator of Alsons Dev attests, “We are proud to partner with Alsons Dev in creating vibrant communities. Our collaboration has led to the design of amenities that foster social connections, enrich residents’ lives, and serve the larger community, like the Alabel Public Safety and Security Complex in Avia Estate. Alsons Dev’s commitment to thoughtful development sets a high standard for the industry.”
Nurturing generations with lasting homes
Providing outstanding living experiences to the mid-cost market through Nurtura Land & Home, Alsons Dev solidifies its leadership in Mindanao real estate through people-centric developments and well planned communities like Narra Park Residences.
Visit the Nurtura Land & Home website at https://nurtura.ph/ to learn more about Alsons Dev’s mid-cost housing projects and to begin your path to homeownership.
Filipinos frequently travel overseas in the dreams of a better future, full of excitement and anticipation. These ambitions frequently go beyond individual objectives and have a big impact on families and communities. However, the road to achieving these goals is frequently fraught with difficulties, necessitating fortitude, tenacity, and the proper assistance to thrive on the international scene.
From left to right: Lianne De Vera, Thomas Aguila, and Hannah Velasco, past IELTS test takers now successfully living abroad.
For many, being able to communicate in English is essential to taking advantage of these opportunities. Taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a crucial step for anybody looking to advance in their job, pursue additional education, or begin a new life. In addition to administering the IELTS exam, the British Council, which co-owns the test, provides assistance to those getting ready for international exams so they can adjust to life overseas. Introducing Lianne, Thomas, and Hannah—three Filipinos who overcame both personal and professional obstacles to prosper in their new communities.
Dreams Beyond Borders
For Lianne De Vera, a British Council scholarship grantee and now the marketing communications head of a London-based non-profit, the dream was always to broaden her horizons. Initially believing her strength was in writing, her speaking skills surpassed her expectations after taking the IELTS exam and scoring higher in speaking than in writing. “Taking the IELTS felt like a stamp of validation. It gave me the confidence to engage with my peers and professors,” she said. Earning a scholarship through the British Council’s IELTS Prize further motivated her to hone her skills in her field. “The IELTS was an eye-opener. I’m not particularly an extrovert, and I’m not comfortable speaking in public, but I did well with my speaking, showing me that I could surprise myself,” Lianne shared.
Moving to Canada to work as a nurse was a long-standing goal according to Thomas Aguila. This also required the right credentials. His employer and the academic institution where he is completing his degree units easily recognised his IELTS certification because it was from the British Council. “If I had taken another test, I think the outcome would’ve been different,” he explained. “The process was much smoother, and I got my results quickly from the British Council.” He added that improving his English skills also helped him be more attuned to his patients’ needs and adapt to the foreign environment.
Meanwhile, after years of navigating the paperwork to move to Bermuda, Hannah Velasco took the leap to relocate from her hometown of Dagupan three years ago. It was an adjustment that pushed her out of her comfort zone, but it led to fulfilling experiences that extended beyond her career. “Talking to people from different cultures has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me,” she said. “Improving English through the IELTS not only made me more fluent, but it also broke down barriers. I gained friends and insights into their cultures, which made my transition smoother.” Beyond her life as a nurse, the skills she gained through her IELTS journey helped her adapt to a foreign community.
A Stepping Stone to Success
The IELTS journey also provides individuals with the skills needed to create life-altering experiences. As Lianne shared, “IELTS opened the doors for me to step into a new chapter, leading to career and study opportunities, as well as the chance to live here and raise my family.”
Thomas echoed this, sharing how IELTS helped him achieve his dream of working abroad. After securing a healthcare role, he later received a scholarship in Canada with his employer covering his travel, accommodation, and education. “For the first time, I felt truly valued in my profession,” Thomas said, reflecting on how the experience has created opportunities for him.
For all three of them, the difference in their IELTS experience came down to the personalised support that the British Council offered. “The test may be the same, but how they deliver it and the support given makes all the difference,” Lianne said, likening her experience to a safe space for pursuing her goals. The British Council also provided tips on building a mindset ready for the exam, helping ease her anxiety. “The readily available resources and stamp of credibility are what make the journey more empowering,” she added.
Lianne, Thomas, and Hannah’s experiences demonstrate how fluency in the English language promotes both career and personal development. The British Council provides a wealth of assistance for Filipinos who want to succeed overseas, including materials for test-taking and IELTS preparation. With more than 20 testing locations around the country and their extensive online preparation resource, IELTS Ready Premium, the British Council is dedicated to helping people realize their dreams of living abroad.
Are you prepared to embark on your worldwide adventure? Take advantage of our Early Holiday Promo this October! by scheduling your IELTS exam now! Take advantage of a 10% discount at our test locations in Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Pampanga when you register for your IELTS online. Go to https://www.britishcouncil.ph/exam to reserve your place right now.
Ajinomoto, BEST, and Quezon City’s LGU share the SariCycle® journey from its conception to where it is today
L-R: Johnkarl Manimbo – APC Sustainability Specialist, Japhet Bulingit – Corporate Sustainability Associate (BEST), Jonalyn Peñas – Business Development Officer (BEST), Andrea Villaroman – Head of QC CCESD, Ernie Carlos – APC Chief Sustainability Officer, Engr. Ceidge Razon – Corporate Sustainability Manager (BEST), Claire Vinarao – Chief, Adaptation Division (CCESD), Maribel Marquez – Acting Chief, Resource Efficiency Section (CCESD) and Kirstoff Buyoc – APC Sustainability Executive.
The Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department (QC CCESD), Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies (BEST), and Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) are pleased to commemorate the SariCycle® Program’s six-month milestone. Since its debut in January 2024, this innovative program has successfully gathered over 4,000 kg of single-use plastics (SUPs) and has attracted over 600 active participants.
SariCycle® is a collaboration between sustainability and waste management. With an emphasis on gathering and recycling single-use plastic in smaller areas, the program was created to help address the growing issue of plastic waste. This started in a few areas in Quezon City where there are a lot of sari-sari shops. “SariCyclers,” as the participants are called, are rewarded with exclusive product bundles from Ajinomoto Philippines. Additionally, they receive Environmental Points (EPs), which may be exchanged for cash at participating merchants.
Among the participants are key members of Quezon City’s livelihood programs, including beneficiaries of the “Tindahan ni Mayor Joy” initiative and persons with disabilities (PWD) beneficiaries. The collective effort of these SariCyclers has resulted in significant strides in promoting environmental responsibility and awareness.
During the six-month evaluation meeting held at the QC CCESD office, representatives from APC, BEST, and QC CCESD, headed by Ms. Andrea Villaroman, were all in attendance to share and update the program’s current achievements and the challenges ahead. APC’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Ernie Carlos, shared how grateful APC is to the community for their unwavering support and emphasized the importance of the collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“The SariCycle® Program is testament to the positive and impactful effects we can achieve for the good of our environment when we all work towards a more sustainable future. Indeed, we take inspiration from the communities in Quezon City and our partners at BEST, when it comes to being stewards of the environment,” Carlos said.
To acknowledge the company’s role in this environmental effort, Ajinomoto Philippines was honored at BEST’s 25th Anniversary celebration on September 16, 2024, at Crowne Plaza Manila. BEST, a key player in solid waste management in the Philippines, shared how proud they are to have worked with APC, and its dedication to environmental sustainability and awarded the company a plaque of appreciation for its active role in the SariCycle® Program. APC’s Sustainability Executive, Kirstoff Buyoc, accepted the award for Ajinomoto Philippines. He also served as co-presenter for the recognition given to the top-performing SariCyclers during the event.
Key figures in the Circular Economy movement, such as Senator Cynthia Villar, the primary author of the Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) Law, were also present at the anniversary celebration. This incident demonstrated how crucial public-private sector cooperation is to advancing sustainability measures and bringing about positive environmental change.
Through its continuous activities, Ajinomoto Philippines is steadfast in its commitment to encouraging environmentally conscious behavior and responsible consumption. APC is eager to grow the SariCycle® Program and will keep taking the lead on their projects with a positive attitude. In keeping with their pledge to promote the “Eat Well, Live Well” lifestyle, they will collaborate closely with their partners to create a more sustainable future for everybody.
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape, startup agility is crucial in achieving long-term success. This approach values flexibility, innovation, and collaboration over rigid structures and processes.
By embracing startup agility, up-and-coming businesses can stay ahead of the competition, meet customer needs, and build strong and recognizable brands.
The Startup Mindset
Startups are characterized by their small size, limited resources, and rapid growth potential. Often operating in dynamic and uncertain markets, they must quickly adapt to survive and thrive. Startups must be willing to experiment, take risks, and try new approaches to stay ahead of the competition and meet customer needs.
The Agile Framework in Startups
Agile methodology is a project management approach that values collaboration, flexibility, and customer satisfaction. It is based on a set of principles that emphasize:
Individuals and interactions over processes and tools
Working software over comprehensive documentation
Customer collaboration over contract negotiation
Responding to change over following a plan
There are several ways startups can practice the agile methodology in their business operations, such as breaking down large projects into smaller tasks. Prioritizing tasks based on customer value and regularly reviewing plans also counts. Collaboration and clear communication among team members also aid in cultivating agility.
Leveraging Agility for Brand Building
A responsive brand strategy is flexible and adaptable to changing market conditions and customer needs. It involves several factors: regularly monitoring customer feedback, analyzing market trends, adjusting branding or messaging as needed, and exploring new ideas.
In addition, experimenting with new channels and approaches as well as collaborating with customers and partners can help strengthen the agility of your brand strategy. Your market reach also benefits from these since it exposes your brand to a broader audience.
Successful Brands That Used Agility
In the tech industry, startups like Airbnb and Uber have leveraged the agility framework to disrupt traditional industries and build strong and recognizable brands. The same strategy was also used by consumer goods startups such as Warby Parker and Dollar Shave Club to meet customer needs and build loyal customer bases. WeWork and TaskRabbit in the service industry took advantage of agility to provide flexible and convenient solutions to customers.
These are proof that startups can reap a lot of benefits from utilizing agility in their branding and marketing strategy.
Challenges in Maintaining Agility
As startups grow, they may face challenges in maintaining their agility and flexibility. Resistance to new working cultures and mindsets is quite common, as well as the lack of adequate support from leadership.
This can be addressed by implementing agile practices at scale, cultivating a culture of innovation, and continuously training employees. Working with a trusted public relations agency can also help alleviate these challenges and better implement the agile framework.
With these approaches, startups can continue to leverage agility without entering into culture shock and technological inexperience.
Tools and Technologies For Startup Agility
One of the core objectives of the agility framework is to break down projects into smaller tasks. Project management tools like Asana and Trello can help startups organize their tasks and projects appropriately.
For customer management, CRM systems such as Salesforce and HubSpot are common options to manage feedback and other related sources. In analytics and data visualization, Google Analytics and Tableau are often used to aid in making data-driven decisions.
Building a Culture of Agility
Leaders play a crucial role in building a culture of agility. They must exemplify the behaviors and attitudes they want to see in their team members. Leaders also encourage innovation and experimentation while providing training and support at the same time. What the leaders do and say is reflected by the teams they lead.
An agile culture entails a willingness to learn from failures to build a strong brand strategy. By conducting post-mortem analyses of failed projects and encouraging collaboration among team members, startups can cultivate a healthy mindset for their workforce.
Adapting Towards Success
The journey of agility is a continuous one, and startups must be willing to regularly review and adjust their strategies and approaches to stay ahead of the competition and build strong and recognizable brands. By embracing agility, startups can achieve long-term success while maintaining their core values and cultivating a healthy work culture.
Iskaparate.com core team, industry partners, and media representatives in a commemorative photograph, marking a significant milestone of the platform.
A team from ConnectSys,Iskaparate’s ecosystem provider, led an interactive online purchase demo for media representatives and industry partners to get a firsthand look at the platform during the press launch of Iskaparate.com on October 15, 2024, at Overdoughs Café in Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati.
The occasion, which was intended to present Iskaparate’s characteristics and advantages, was a significant occasion for the platform as it formally entered the online market. The demonstration included a comprehensive overview of the website, covering product showcasing, e-commerce functionalities, and the purchasing process that was initiated with an e-gift certificate. In addition to an open discussion on the platform’s general functionality, attendees interacted with the demo through interactive navigation.
I really enjoyed the event; it helped the local and small business entrepreneurs to widen their reach. It is also essential to acquire more skills to innovate and foster their business. Through the event, we got a demo of how the whole process works, and everyone enjoyed the event. It is such a great relief knowing what they launched is such a convenience, not just for the sellers but also for the customers. That’s why it is also important that we value our very own products and support the small and local businesses here in our country.
Media representatives and Iskaparate partners from various organizations participate in the platform’s online demo, exhibiting customers experience with hands-on guidance in website navigation.
The event began with a warm video message from Iskaparate Founder Joey Bermudez, sharing the journey of Iskaparate from having a community of 33 entrepreneurial mothers to partnering with 3,000 fully vetted sellers. He highlighted. “Iskaparate.com was born during the darkest days of the COVID pandemic when micro and small entrepreneurs lost their physical stores to the brutal lockdowns. We then created an online platform that would allow these entrepreneurs to resume their businesses.”
Attendees included a mix of media professionals and industry partners eager to see how the platform could potentially impact and transform the digital commerce landscape for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines.
In the modern era when a unique driving force can define the success of an online platform, Iskaparate.com made a strong impression with its mission to empower small business owners. In her talk, DTC Promos Inc. President & COO Marissa Dames emphasized its passionate goal, “We share a vision to support the growth of MSMEs.”
On the left, Iskaparate President & COO Josefina Rojo-Natividad shares the platform’s growth since formation. On the right, DTC Promos Inc. President & COO Marissa Dames discusses features that set the platform apart from others.
On the other hand, Josefina Rojo-Natividad, President & COO of Iskaparate, shared the progressive growth of the platform, “Iskaparate started as a B2C [platform], but now, we are proud to showcase that our website already features B2B, offering grocery items and personal care products. This would benefit the sellers we have whose products are not able to sell because of competition.”
Using an e-gift certificate, the demo walked participants through the entire buying process, from selecting products to completing transactions. This hands-on demonstration allowed the attendees to explore different aspects of the platform in real time. This feature of the launch allowed for an in-depth understanding of how the platform operates from a customer perspective.
Iskaparate.com, while initially conceived to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), has now extended its offerings to include larger businesses and B2B companies. With a wide range of e-commerce tools, vendors of all sizes can list and manage their products, handle transactions, and engage directly with consumers on a trusted, efficient platform. The team emphasized that this expansion is designed to help businesses adapt to the digital age while remaining competitive in an increasingly globalized market.
Iskaparate.com’s primary goal of empowering Filipino business owners, especially MSMEs, by providing them with the resources they need to successfully traverse the e-commerce industry was further explained during the event. Iskaparate aims to make online selling accessible to companies that might lack the funds or know-how to set up their own e-commerce systems by offering a multi-vendor platform that levels the playing field.
From left, Iskaparate team Beck Llaneta and Josefina Natividad and Louise Sarrah Uy of Suy Sing engage in a conversation after the event.
A multi-vendor e-commerce platform called Iskaparate.com was created to support and empower micro, small, and medium enterprises(MSMEs). Larger organizations and B2B companies are now included, enabling resellers to purchase in bulk at discounted rates and resell them with healthy profit margins.
Binibining Pilipinas special awards winners with PlayTime Media Coverage Lead Rico Navarro
During the 60th edition of the Binibining Pilipinas pageant, the candidates who received special awards were given cash rewards by PlayTime, the fastest-growing online gaming entertainment business, in a recent ceremony.
Media Coverage Lead Rico Navarro presented the awards, which each received Php25,000 from PlayTime. During the tournament, the following Binibining Pilipinas candidates were honored for their exceptional representation of friendship and cultural heritage in addition to their beauty, composure, and grace:
Binibining Pilipinas 2024 – International Myrna Esguerra – Best in Gown and Best in Swimsuit
Roselyn Evardo – Binibining Friendship
Top 5 National Costume:
Zianah Famy
Joyce Garduque
Myrea Cacam
Monica Acuno
Myrna Esguerra
Binibining Pilipinas – International 2024 Best in Gown, Swimsuit, and National Costume winner Myrna Esguerra with PlayTime Media Coverage Lead Rico Navarro
For Binibining Pilipinas 2024 – International Myrna Esguerra, winning the title, the special awards, and her journey will forever be memorable. “My life after Binibining Pilipinas will never be the same anymore, because of the things that I have learned during my journey. But it’s all positive, and I’m really grateful for everything that happened, and it’s something that I will own forever in my heart,” says Myrna.
PlayTime Binibini Samantha Viktoria Acosta (middle), together with PlayTime lead representatives Rico Navarro (left) and Jan Llamado (right)
Binibining PlayTime Samantha Viktoria “Sam” Acosta also received her prize in a separate event.
“The creativity and passion displayed by these amazing women were truly outstanding and worthy to be recognized. We, at PlayTime, are honored to present these deserving winners with cash prizes as a token of our appreciation,” says Jay Sabale, Senior Manager, PR.
Launched in 2024, PlayTime is a premier online gaming entertainment platform licensed by PAGCOR. With over 2,500 games and 15 million users, PlayTime offers the highest daily cashback (up to 2%), and fastest withdrawals (guaranteed in 10mins) in the Philippines. Visit www.playtime.ph for more information.