Made It Through Mum

Maryjoy Delara in front of her sari-sari store in San Fernando, Pampanga, which she has built up from a starting capital of P 5,000. The saying goes that for every ‘hat’ a man wears, a woman wears two. The concept of a “work-life” balance appears to weigh more heavily on a woman as she’s expected to juggle domestic duties with a career. This rings true for Maryjoy Delara, an entrepreneur and a mother, who has been supporting her family since adolescence while still keeping her dreams alive.  As she tells it, Maryjoy has been in the service of her family her whole life. Starting in the summer of her third year in high school, she has been selling dried fish to support her family in rural Bicol. With school out for two months, she had the idea to do a side hustle; while her mother discouraged her, she was determined to save up for school supplies for her siblings and herself.  “ Nag-isip pa rin ako ng paraan na magka-pera. Naisip ko may P 500 ako, bibili ako ng dilis, ipapatuyo ...

SM City Grand Central just got exciting with two must-visit new spots at the mall. Whether you are craving an ice-cold, nostalgia-filled Filipino dessert or a globally inspired, flavor-packed meal, Bebang Halo-Halo and Stuff’d have got you covered. Located on the upper ground level, the newest dining gems offer something for every foodie—whether you are a dessert aficionado, a savory snack lover, or just looking for your next Instagram-worthy bite.  Bebang Halo-Halo is not just about mixing ingredients in a bowl; it is about storytelling through flavors. Unlike your usual halo-halo, where the prized leche flan sits on top. Bebang Halo-Halo flips the script—literally—by tucking it at the bottom for a sweet, creamy finish. Each serving is a delightful layering of textures and flavors, all topped off with shaved frozen full cream milk that is so smooth, TikTokers liken it to Korean bingsu. Their best-selling Presidential Halo-Halo (P168) is an absolute feast, packed with macapuno, nat...

In a poignant display of solidarity and support, The Travel Club has officially turned over its first batch of donated luggage to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), benefiting first-time Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as they embark on new journeys abroad. The Donate Your Luggage For A Cause initiative, which allowed customers to trade-in their pre-loved luggage in exchange for exclusive discounts, collected hundreds of luggage, each with its own story of past adventures. Now, these bags are being repurposed to carry the dreams and aspirations of OFWs stepping into a new chapter of their lives. Shoppers came for the discounts, but they left knowing their pre-loved luggage would help someone else start a new journey. During the first turnover event, 100 suitcases were distributed to first-time OFWs, symbolizing a practical travel necessity and well wishes of those who once carried them. “ Ang goal po namin ay ‘yong mga matanggap ninyong maleta ay magagamit ninyo sa in...

Healthy Options opens its 35th store at Greenhills Mall, introducing a fresh market concept designed by the renowned French agency, Stories. Healthy living just got a little more exciting! Healthy Options, the country’s all-natural and organic retailer has opened its 35th store at Greenhills Mall, unveiling a fresh market concept that’s set to redefine your shopping experience. Designed by the internationally acclaimed French design agency Stories, this innovative space combines elegance and functionality, making your path to health and wellness enjoyable. Adding to the store's modern vibe are Healthy Options’ first-ever self-checkout counters, offering a seamless and hassle-free shopping experience. Say goodbye to long lines and hello to convenience as you browse through shelves stocked with clean, natural, and nutritious products. A Celebration of Health, Wellness and Community The grand opening of its 35th store was a celebration of health, wellness, and community. Mayor Francis...

Creativity Camp is back with hands-on sessions in AI, podcasting & more for kids, teens As technology becomes increasingly integral to everyday life, digitally savvy kids can enhance their tech skills to further enrich their knowledge and creativity. This summer, Power Mac Center (PMC), through its official training arm Basecamp, is offering young learners the chance to take their digital expertise to the next level. Basecamp’s Creativity Camp is now open for registration, welcoming children aged 7 to 15 to its highly anticipated annual summer workshops on iPad and Mac. Running from May to June, these hands-on sessions will equip kids with valuable skills in 2D and 3D design, Augmented Reality (AR), animation, podcasting, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). “We offer kids and teens an exclusive opportunity to explore next-generation technologies through engaging, hands-on experiences. With guidance from expert instructors, they’ll unleash their creativity while gaining essential digi...

Leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. (PSE: CNVRG) is enhancing its nationwide fiber network with an advanced data transmission technology from NASDAQ-listed Ribbon Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: RBBN) to strengthen its network in response to the growing need for high-speed, low-latency, and reliable connectivity. Converge will leverage Ribbon's advanced Muse Multilayer Automation Platform (MAP) designed to maximize the value of IP Optical network investments through comprehensive control, analysis, design, and planning applications. Its powerful low-code automation and customization engines allow Converge to optimize its resources and maintain peak network performance. Converge is accelerating its network automation journey by leveraging Ribbon's Muse platform and Al capabilities. "We are planning important developments in the products and services we offer to our customers, and it's vital that our infrastructure can support these. ...

  The arrival of the Galaxy A26 5G completes the Awesome Intelligence lineup with Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A56 5G, now available at Samsung.com!  Samsung has finally launched its most accessible AI phone, the Galaxy A26 5G in the Philippines – bringing awesome intelligence to even more Filipinos. With Circle to Search with Google, Object Eraser, Edit Suggestion, and Photo Remaster, anyone can now enjoy mobile AI features like never before with the Galaxy A Series.  Joining the lineup of Awesome Intelligence devices, Samsung has also announced the availability of the Galaxy A56 5G and Galaxy A36 5G at Samsung.com.  Awesome Intelligence is the first comprehensive mobile AI platform for the Galaxy A series, bringing powerful, fun, and easy-to-use AI tools to first-time AI smartphone users with the Galaxy A26 5G, Galaxy A36 5G, and Galaxy A56 5G. Awesome Intelligence is also powered by One UI 7.0, bringing a personalized mobile experience that fits any lifestyle.  A...

On the heels of a third consecutive Ookla® Speedtest Award™ for Fastest Fixed Network, Converge ICT Solutions Inc. spearheads a seamlessly integrated digital home with its new and improved internet offering called Super FiberX. Building upon the proven success of its flagship FiberX service, which has consistently dominated the market for its speed and value since its 2017 relaunch, Super FiberX introduces a powerful upgrade: seamless WiFi-6 connectivity and access to SkyTV, all powered by the innovative Converge Xperience Hub. Optimized to meet the evolving connectivity needs of Filipinos, Super FiberX MAX at P1,599 combines fiber-fast internet speeds of up to 400 Mbps that, along with the Converge Xperience Hub, transforms every home into a high-performance digital playground for entertainment, work, and everyday digital needs. The Super FiberX Plans seamlessly integrate high-speed internet, live TV, and a multitude of streaming options, offering unparalleled value and convenience. P...

  The highly anticipated EastWest Dream Run 2025 is set to bring together thousands of running enthusiasts across three major cities—Davao (April 6), Cebu (May 4), and Manila (June 15). Organized in partnership with RUNRIO, this milestone event is a key part of EastWest’s 30th Anniversary celebrations and also aligns with the 70th Anniversary of its parent company, Filinvest. Through this event, EastWest continues to expand its efforts in promoting health, fitness, and community engagement across the country. “At EastWest, we believe in empowering Filipinos—not just financially, but in every aspect of their lives. The EastWest Dream Run 2025 is a reflection of our mission to help individuals push their limits, whether in their financial journey or their pursuit of health and wellness,” shares Martin Reyes, EastWest SVP and Head of Marketing and Cash Management. A Race for Everyone With distances of 1K, 2K, 5K, 10K, and 30K, the EastWest Dream Run welcomes participants of all levels...

  SM Seaside City Cebu and the 86 SM Supermalls nationwide give an hour for Earth by turning off non-essential lights during Earth Hour 2025. Unite Communities to Promote Environmental Awareness For the 17th consecutive year, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its continued commitment to environmental sustainability by joining the 2025 Earth Hour movement, a global initiative led by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).  On March 22, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm, SM malls across the country participated in the symbolic lights-off event, encouraging customers, tenants, and employees to “Give an Hour for Earth” by taking simple yet impactful actions to protect the planet. SM Mall of Asia participate in the Global Lights Switch Off to raise awareness about climate change. A Collective Effort for a Sustainable Future SM Supermalls took part in the Global Lights Switch Off, reducing energy consumption and raising awareness about climate change. According to PwC Isla Lipana and Co., the total energy save...

EastWest volunteers share moments of jou and learning with children from Young Focus, embodying the spirit of giving and community through the Cards of Hope initiative. Beyond banking, EastWest is committed to going further and making a meaningful impact in the communities it serves. This came to life through Cards of Hope, a heartfelt initiative that turned a simple holiday tradition into an opportunity to change lives. EastWest employees and internal clubs—EastWest Milers, EastWest Click, and EastWest Voices—rallied together to support Young Focus, an organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education. Instead of traditional holiday decorations, EastWest employees purchased intricately designed ornaments and postcard sets, knowing that every peso would go toward scholarships and essential learning resources for children from Smokey Mountain. For EastWest, the partnership with Young Focus went beyond financial aid—it created opportunities that equip the next gen...

Davao City’s Sustainability Pledge is a launchpad for a broader, long-term movement that encourages residents to adopt environmentally responsible lifestyles. Vista Land’s recent participation in Earth Hour 2025 reflects the company’s dedication to climate action, energy conservation, and eco-friendly urban development. Themed ‘Beyond the Hour,’ the annual campaign under its GreenViron Sustainability Initiative underscored its commitment to sustainable living—not just for 60 minutes but throughout the year. Across its master planned developments, house-and-lot communities, and condominium properties, Vista Land transformed the Biggest Hour for Earth into a launchpad for a long-term movement that encourages residents to adopt environmentally responsible lifestyles. Vista Land took Earth Hour a step further by curating engaging, and action-driven activities that align with its long-term vision of sustainability. Vista GL Taft, Manila: For those seeking a more calming experience, yoga se...

Ms. Amy Berry (Director, EngagED Consulting, Author of Reimagining Student Engagement: From Disrupting to Driving) and Atty. Dominador Buhain (Chairman & President, Rex Education) Rex Education marked its 75th anniversary at AECON 2025, held on January 16-17 at the Gallio Events Hall in Parañaque. The theme, celebrating 75 Years of Commitment to Quality Education: Seamless and Meaningful Learning Experiences Through Assessment, Intervention, and Enrichment, highlighted the company’s dedication to education. Nearly 1,000 educators, school leaders, and stakeholders attended the two-day event, which focused on addressing key educational challenges through insightful discussions and knowledge-sharing. Gathering of Change Makers in Education Each year, AECON addresses pressing issues in education, equipping teachers and leaders with valuable insights and solutions. This year, as part of its 75th anniversary, the focus is on creating seamless and meaningful learning experiences for every...

The festivities are just getting started as the OPPO Fam continues to grow stronger with over seven million registered My OPPO App members! To mark this momentous milestone with its ever-growing community, OPPO is hosting the My OPPO App 7 Million Celebration Promo from March 22 to April 30, 2025 where exciting prizes are up for grabs for registered My OPPO App users. Maximize the My OPPO App for a chance to win Ready to take part in the My OPPO App 7 Million Celebration and get a chance to grab cool prizes? All you have to do is follow these steps to unlock the fun: Open the My OPPO App and log in to your account.  Click on the 7M Celebration campaign banner on the homepage to access the 7M Capsule Carnival.  Click the "Click & Win" button to play the raffle. All My OPPO App members will get three free plays per day while additional plays can be earned by using 30 OPPOints per extra play. Celebrate and enjoy rewards You are in for a world of surprises as you join the My ...

Summer is here, and SM City Grand Central is heating things up with a 3-day Grand Summer Sale from March 28 to 30! Get ready for sizzling deals up to 70% off on everything you need, from fashion and beauty to home essentials and gadgets.  Find incredible savings and exclusive discounts, plus freebies and special promos, at over 200 stores throughout the mall, including SM Supermarket, The SM Store, Ace Hardware, Miniso, Our Home, Watsons, and SM Appliance Center. Bring your shopping A-game and get ready to indulge in some serious retail therapy at SM City Grand Central! You can stay updated on all the sale drops by following SM City Grand Central on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smgrandcentral .