Leading Ladies' 'She Shines’ Summit Celebrates Trailblazing Women

In the age of advanced technology and increased access to the internet, the publishing industry is constantly evolving, adjusting to new tech and adapting to shifting consumer demands. According to Publishing State, 2025 will push the industry towards uncharted territory as the key trends we see today, such as digital publishing, social media, and niche markets, continue to gain momentum, transforming the overall publishing landscape. 

In the Philippines, publishing is mainly run by traditional publishing houses, so if you’re a Filipino author hoping to get your works out there, you will have to find publishers that are accepting submissions, which usually involves a long waiting period. With the rise of digital publishing, many authors have dipped their toes into self-publishing — taking matters into their own hands when it comes to marketing their books. But this path requires a certain level of consistency and dedication to work, which some authors fail to maintain. Long story short, it’s a tough path to do everything alone without professional help, especially if you’re a first-time author without a built-in readership.

This is what Cindy Wong wanted to address when she founded 8Letters Publishing House, a hybrid publisher and boutique bookstore dedicated to supporting Filipino writers.

“I started 8Letters in my bedroom with a vision to market Filipino books, including my own title,” Cindy told The Beat Asia. “At the time, indie books were largely absent from mainstream bookstores, so I aimed to distribute a curated selection in local cafes. We successfully partnered with several cafes to showcase our books. As we gained traction, more authors approached us for assistance in marketing their work, which led to our evolution into a full-fledged publishing house.”

Established in 2016, 8Letters aims to promote independent writers in the Philippines who struggle to showcase their art in a very saturated market. The publishing house was named in such a way to describe how letters make up words and the infinite number of stories that can be made with them. This aspect is represented by the number “8” which, when turned sideways, is the infinite symbol. Currently, the publisher has over 400 titles on their shelves, which are sold on their webstore and by local and international book retailers. 

But what exactly is a hybrid publisher? And how does this model increase an author’s chances of success with their respective titles? 

A Collaborative Approach

It takes more than a good story to sell a book. In fact, the success mostly lies in how one markets their book and the exposure it gets. According to their website, 8Letters “strives to create a safe and nurturing space for writers” and to be able to support them in their creative journey. The keyword here is support, as 8Letters is not in the business of simply profiting from their authors, but also to assist them in all aspects of their publishing journey. 

Cindy, who is also the Creative Director of the publishing house, explained, “In a traditional publishing model, the publishing house covers all expenses related to producing a book, allowing the author to focus solely on writing with minimal involvement in marketing. In contrast, self-publishing requires the author to handle every aspect of the process independently, from production to promotion.”

“A hybrid publishing model, however, represents a collaborative approach between the author and the publishing house. Both parties contribute to key areas such as the manuscript, cover design, layout, marketing, and distribution. This collaboration allows the author to invest less upfront while still benefiting from professional support, ultimately leading to a higher percentage of sales revenue. This model combines the best of both worlds, providing authors with guidance and resources while maintaining a degree of creative control.”

Being an author herself, Cindy understands the struggles of rookie authors who are trying to catch their big break. She discovered early on that it was easier to persuade establishments to carry her title when she had a broader selection to offer. This was how 8Letters shaped itself to become a community-based publishing house. 

“I was happy to assist other authors because I recognized a genuine gap in the market. I believe in a mindset where collaboration leads to mutual success, allowing more people to thrive together,” she said.

Many authors start without a built-in readership or fan base, and one of the toughest challenges they’d have to face in indie publishing is getting people to notice their books, considering the number of titles that are published every year, not just in the Philippines but the rest of the world.

Cindy stated, “Being part of a community of writers really helps. When you support each other by reading, reviewing, and promoting one another’s books, it makes a big difference. This way, you can help those who might not be familiar with your work start to take notice. It’s all about lifting each other up!”

Looking at their social media handles, the publishing house has gained a lot of traction with over 24k followers on Facebook and another thousand or so on Instagram. The publisher regularly organizes and takes part in book events, which is one of the ways they provide their authors with the exposure they need. They also publish a quarterly literary magazine, “Circles Mag,” which features poems, short stories, and essays from contemporary Filipino writers. Subscriptions are priced at P580, with a premium quarterly subscription of P780 that includes a tote bag, journals, and other bookish goodies. 

When it comes to the publishing aspect, 8Letters is prepared to guide you every step of the way. You can simply visit their website and peruse the range of self-publishing services they offer, ranging from manuscript editing and book formatting and design to book printing, distribution, and ISBN (International Standard Book Number) registration. 

If you’re a writer planning to put your work out there, it’s important to note that all types of publishing have their own pros and cons, so you should carefully think about which path would take you where you want to be in your writing career. One main advantage of publishing with a hybrid publisher like 8Letters is retaining your copyright and creative control. Their model combines self-publishing with some elements from the traditional path, such as providing authors with the resources they need. One of these resources is the 8Letters Publishing University, which is a series of workshops Cindy and her team started a few years back that offers courses on self-publishing, writing romance, poetry, horror, mystery, non-fiction, and author branding. The company is currently refining the courses and is hoping to relaunch soon. 

“The publishing landscape in the Philippines is constantly evolving. Currently, there’s a significant shift from traditional publishing to self-publishing, as many authors are recognizing the benefits of taking control of their work. However, not everyone will make the switch, as self-publishing requires considerable effort and dedication. This is where publishing houses like ours play a vital role, providing the support and resources authors need to navigate this transition successfully.”

8Letters Publishing has gathered an impressive roster of talents in the last nine years in both popular and emerging genres. Some of their bestselling titles include the works of Gerome Nicolas Dela Peña, such as “SUÓNG! Mga Aporismo ng Paglusong at Pagsulong,” which was a National Book Award finalist; the fantasy novel “Silence” by Che De Leon; and their Pinoy Science Fiction title, “Fate of a Distant Future” by Renato Tranquilino. 

When asked about the kinds of books that currently sell in the local market, Cindy replied, “Pinoy Sci-Fi is an emerging genre that has garnered significant attention in recent years. We showcased this selection at the Frankfurt Book Fair last year and even hosted a PinoySciFiCon at Fully Booked. Our publication features a substantial number of fantasy novels, making that one of our best-selling categories. Additionally, Filipinos have a strong appreciation for short reads, particularly in romance and self-love poetry, which also perform well in the market. We’ve recently ventured into the children’s book genre and are eager to learn more about this exciting market.”

Cindy also mentioned that one other element affecting a book’s salability is cover design, proving that indeed, people do judge books by their covers. 

It’s evident that 8Letters Publishing is working towards helping indie authors be more seen, but at the end of the day, it’s still a business. When asked about the challenges she faces in running the company, she answered, “I'd say managing authors' expectations and educating or shifting their mindsets. I've mentioned that being a hybrid publishing house requires collaborative effort, and most of the time, authors would have certain expectations that the books will sell like pancakes. However, that's not always the case. It's a long game!”

Cindy also shared that 8Letters Publishing aims to be a highly efficient company and is working towards refining its internal systems and enhancing its distribution methods to ensure a smoother process for their authors and readers. The creative director also understands the weight of their responsibility to their authors, and promises to continuously adapt to shifting consumer demands as well as accommodate authors on their preferences in terms of the direction they want their writing careers to take. 

“I have a dedicated team supporting me in managing hundreds of authors in our database. We’re continuously learning and adapting, and one of the key elements to our success is strong teamwork and collaboration. As the creative director, my responsibility is to empower both our authors and my team, ensuring that together we provide the support our writers need to thrive in their careers.” 

You can check out 8Letters Publishing's fantastic lineup of works and authors on their website or follow them on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram for updates on new releases and upcoming book events. 

It’s a known fact that romance and poetry are two of the most popular genres in the Philippine literature scene, but did you know that there’s a genre that has the potential to make it big in the next few years?

Science Fiction (Sci-Fi or SF) has gained traction in recent years with the release of dystopian-themed novels and shows about robots and aliens. In an article from The Statesman, Claire Gehlic stated that due to the renewed interest in cutting-edge technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and increased Internet access, “people’s desire for escapism has reached new heights, resulting in the increased production of books, television series, and films in the genre.”

If we were to look at the numbers, there is a steady rise in terms of profits for the genre. According to statistics from Wordsrated, Sci-Fi and Fantasy earned US$590 million in revenue in the United States alone in 2023. In the world of comic books, sci-fi sales grew by 8.3% in 2021 compared to 2020, and the genre ranks within the top 10 on Amazon’s most competitive categories list.

In the Philippines, the SF genre began in the 1940s with the release of novels such as “Doktor Satan” by Mateo Cruz Cornelio, which was an R. L. Stevenson-inspired story about a medical doctor searching for a cure for his mother’s terminal illness. Apart from a couple of novels from this time, the genre was only ever read in comic books with most being in the pulp variety. 

We don’t know about you, but we’re seeing a lot of untapped potential for Pinoy Sci-Fi considering its global demand. And this is what Sci-Fi and urban fantasy author Renato Tranquilino intends to do as he spreads more awareness for the genre to revive Pinoy Sci-Fi to its former glory. 

But what exactly is Pinoy Sci-Fi? We asked the author himself. 

“Pinoy Sci-Fi is a genre that attempts to combine Philippine myths and creatures with advanced tech and weaponry. Think Riddick or the Dragonriders of Pern. Then when you think of the universe I created, think of Raymond E. Feist's ‘The Riftworld Saga.’ My recent book available on Amazon is ‘The Culling in Proxima,’ and this book shows how I see the Philippines, combining the world of mysticism and science.”

Renato embarked on his writing journey in 2019 when he wrote his first novel, “The Merovingian,” which also had a comic book version called “The Rise of the Filipino Merovingian.” Currently, the Filipino-Australian has four books under his belt, including “The Hong Kong Connection” and “Fate of a Distant Future,” which was featured at the Hong Kong Book Fair and Frankfurt Book Fair to represent Pinoy Sci-Fi. 

There’s no doubt the genre provides escapism that audiences crave and has many thrilling subjects and premises that have yet to be explored. But the question still stands: Is Pinoy Sci-Fi a profitable genre to write in? 

“Online-streaming studios are hungry for new content,” Renato explained. “That's why they started to do a lot more things like Netflix's ‘Black Mirror’ or Apple's ‘Severance.’  But they also started to get more Asian content, like the ones from Thailand, and of course, ‘Trese.’ Half the world’s population is in Asia!”

The SF author also added that there’s a global interest in diverse Sci-Fi stories, which encourages publishers to produce more books that feature stories beyond the West. In turn, production companies and streaming platforms are releasing more shows and movies in the genre, with books being one of their top source materials. This proves that financial opportunities go beyond book sales and can expand to film, TV, and eventually merchandise. 

“It’s new and it has not been commercially available for over 20 years,” Renato told The Beat Asia as he explained that Pinoy Sci-Fi lacks recognition of being classed as literature in the Philippines. It was even removed as a genre from the Palanca Awards in 2006, the country’s most prestigious literary award for writers. The author also voiced that due to this, there is a lack of commercial support from most educational institutions except the NBDB (National Book Development Board). 

“Apart from something new, I think the financial reward that this genre will bring to the country is what makes it an exciting genre to pursue.”

Monetizing Strategies for Authors

If you’re a budding writer looking to get your foot in the door, the first step is to have an actual book to sell. Renato gave a fascinating talk during the Philippine Book Festival last month about how to make money from Pinoy Sci-Fi, and how authors can profit from their writing careers.

Renato emphasized that a book is a product, and that for it to be able to sell well, authors must make sure it’s ready. Books usually undergo a long process of proofing, editing, and research. One must know their target audiences and prepare their online pages, such as a website or social media handles, to have a space to display their work. 

When it comes to getting published, Renato explained that there are three paths one can take: Traditional, Self-Publishing, and the Literary Agent route. 

Traditional Publishing

• Pro: You won’t have to pay anything.
• Pro: Marketing is handled by the publisher.
• Con: All rights belong to the publisher.

Self-Publishing 

• Pro: All rights belong to the writer, including for film and merchandise.
• Con: You will have to pay for all costs and handle everything, including marketing, negotiations, and publicity.

Literary Agent

• Pro: They will negotiate terms with the publisher.
• Pro: They will market your work and get the publicity it deserves.
• Pro: Agents can get you published by bigger or international publishers, thus you’ll have a wider audience reach.
• Con: Agents get a 20% cut or more of your earnings.
• Con: Agents know best, so you must comply with all their plans for your book.
• Con: You will need to query and find an agent interested in representing your work.

All paths have their advantages and disadvantages, but when it comes to making the most out of your work, Renato suggested, “Get a literary agent. I have tried both, and getting an agent is best because they will connect you with the right publisher who will pay your story's worth.”

Renato also explained in his talk how a huge part of being a writer is marketing your work, which can be done in several ways, including:

• Maintaining and creating content on your social media pages. This also includes regularly posting purchase links for your books and setting up giveaways.
• Doing talks at schools and universities.
• Attending book events for exposure and networking opportunities.
• Entering competitions to gain recognition and awards.
• Working with a PR (Public Relations) person for guestings.

The author also mentioned the importance of getting connected with NBDB as the organization offers Philippine authors the chance to gain more exposure for their work such as sending writers to represent the country in international book fairs, providing grants for book translations, and getting you connected with all the right people in the global publishing industry. 

If you’re planning to self-publish or don’t have a traditional publisher yet, Renato encourages you to sign up with the organization to utilize their services and opportunities. You can register here. 

Currently, Renato is taking the agented route and has just released the sequel to “The Merovigian,” as well as two other books entitled "Eden” and “Proxima.” Advanced copies are now available on Amazon or via direct order from the author. 

If you’re interested in checking out his other works, you can purchase them from Amazon, Waterstones, Barnes & Noble, 8Letters Bookstore and Publishing, Fully Booked, and Lazada.

You can also follow the author on Facebook for more updates on his latest releases and book events. 

Manila is buzzing with female entrepreneurs who are changing the game with creativity and passion. From beauty to fashion, these women-owned businesses are making waves and inspiring others to follow their lead. Dive into the stories behind some of the most exciting and empowering women-led brands in the city. Check them out below!

Mae Layug-Madriñan: Celebrating Filipina Beauty with GRWM Cosmetics

In a world where beauty standards often feel rigid, Mae Layug-Madriñan, founder, CEO, and president of GRWM Cosmetics, is changing the game one inclusive shade at a time. Recognizing the lack of representation for Filipinas with medium to tan skin tones, she set out to fill the gaps in the local beauty industry. Through GRWM Cosmetics, she empowers women to embrace beauty on their own terms, ensuring high-quality, accessible, and safe products that cater to diverse skin tones.

Beyond creating cosmetics, Mae champions beauty education, helping consumers make informed choices and maximize their purchases. She understands that makeup is a luxury for many, and she’s committed to providing products that are both affordable and exceptional.

Mae's journey is a testament to the power of women-led businesses in Manila — driven by passion, purpose, and a mission to uplift others. Discover more about GRWM Cosmetics and explore their game-changing products here, and follow them on Instagram.

Nina Ellaine Dizon: Championing Inclusivity in Filipino Beauty (Colourette)

Passion, grit, and a vision for inclusivity — Nina Ellaine Dizon, founder and CEO of Colourette, built a beauty brand that truly represents Filipinos. From her love for makeup, she turned her entrepreneurial spirit into a mission: to create high-quality, accessible products that celebrate diversity. Since its launch in 2015, Colourette has been dedicated to ensuring Filipinos see themselves in advertisements, social media, and campaigns.

Under Nina’s leadership, Colourette remains committed to ethical beauty, earning certification from PETA’s Global Beauty Without Bunnies Program as a cruelty-free brand. With vegan and paraben-free formulas, her products are designed for everyone because beauty knows no boundaries.

Nine years in, Nina continues to drive innovation, ensuring Colourette stays true to its mission of inclusivity and empowerment. Learn more about Colourette and explore its game-changing products here, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Cleo Loque: Championing Women’s Progress with Creative Solutions at Hiraya Pilipina

At just 15 years old, Cleo Loque, founder and CEO of Hiraya Pilipina, set out to redefine self-care for women. Through her brand, she creates innovative and inclusive solutions that empower Filipinas to embrace confidence and comfort in their daily lives. From innerwear to period care, Hiraya Pilipina stands by its philosophy: bold, beautiful, and boundless — just like the women it serves.

More than a lifestyle brand, Hiraya Pilipina is a movement dedicated to uplifting women and breaking barriers in self-care. Cleo’s vision continues to inspire, proving that age is never a limit to making an impact. Discover more about Hiraya Pilipina and its empowering products on Shopee. You can also follow them on Instagram.

Kyla Cañete: Crafting Confidence for Filipinas with Tala by Kyla

From a small passion project to a beloved jewelry brand, Kyla Cañete, founder and CEO of Tala by Kyla, built a business that allows people to wear their story. Starting right after high school with minimal capital, she turned her vision into reality and created affordable, trendy pieces that resonate with her Gen Z audience. Inspired by pop culture and personal experiences, each piece is designed to celebrate individuality and self-expression.

With tala, meaning star in Filipino, the brand embodies its mission: to help people feel confident and shine, no matter the circumstances. Since 2018, Tala by Kyla has continuously evolved, fearlessly embracing innovation while staying true to its core belief: everyone is made to shine.

Kyla’s journey is a testament to the power of young women in business — bold, creative, and unstoppable. Discover more about Tala by Kyla and find the perfect piece to tell your story here. You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Rizza Lana-Sebastian: Crafting Lana PH with Purpose and Influence

At the heart of the clean beauty movement in the Philippines is Rizza Lana-Sebastian, the inspiring CEO and Founder of Lana PH. What started as a passion for conscious living has blossomed into a thriving brand that champions cruelty-free, zero-waste skincare — all while encouraging self-love and sustainability.

Rizza built Lana PH to be more than just a skincare line. Her vision is rooted in empowering individuals to embrace their natural beauty, while making mindful choices for the planet. With products crafted from gentle, natural ingredients, all proudly made in the Philippines, Lana PH speaks to the modern Filipina who wants to care for herself and the Earth.

Her leadership proves that women can build brands that are not only successful but also deeply meaningful. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook, and check out their products on their website. 

Maan Jocson: From Love of Baking to Mookies Oatmeal Cookie Success

Maan Jocson, the owner and baker behind Mookies Oatmeal Cookies, turned a simple idea into a thriving business during the pandemic. Faced with extra rolled oats about to expire, Maan decided to bake her own oatmeal cookies, and what started as a creative solution soon blossomed into a beloved brand.

With a commitment to quality, Mookies offers home-baked cookies made with premium ingredients and rolled oats, delivering a delightful and wholesome treat. Maan’s journey is a perfect example of how creativity, resourcefulness, and a love for baking can transform a small idea into a successful venture.

Mookies Oatmeal Cookies isn’t just about tasty treats; it’s a story of resilience, innovation, and turning challenges into opportunities. You can follow them on Instagram and Facebook, and buy their products via their website.

Jan Charlotte Venzon: Redefining Filipino Streetwear (Charlotte Folk)

With a passion for fashion and an entrepreneurial spirit, Jan Charlotte Venzon, founder and CEO of Charlotte Folk, has carved a space for Filipino streetwear in the local scene. After graduating from college in 2018, she started the brand from her bedroom, transforming her vision into a thriving business.

Charlotte Folk stands out for its timeless silhouettes infused with modern details that resonate deeply with Gen Z and Millennial audiences. More than just a clothing brand, it represents Filipino identity and creative self-expression, making stylish and accessible streetwear available to all.

From humble beginnings to becoming a recognized name in fashion, Jan Charlotte proves that passion and perseverance can turn dreams into reality. Explore Charlotte Folk and its unique designs here. Follow them on Instagram. 

Camille Jimenez-Sandico: Redefining Everyday Luxury (Penny Pairs)

Camille Jimenez-Sandico, co-founder, CEO, and Creative Director of Penny Pairs, is transforming the way women wear and experience jewelry. What began as a vision to make quality, stylish pieces accessible has grown into a Filipino brand that’s quickly reaching cult-favorite status — loved by women across the globe.

Camille has shaped Penny Pairs into a go-to brand for conscious fashion lovers, blending elegance with purpose. Her designs encourage empowerment through style — be it casual confidence or a bold statement — while emphasizing sustainability and long-lasting quality.

Her story is a celebration of thoughtful creativity and fearless entrepreneurship. Follow them on Instagram and shop for their pieces on their website.

Women have always struggled with finding their places in society outside of what is expected from them. Since the turn of the century, and from generation to generation, it has always been a challenge for women, girls, and those who identify as women to be heard and find the support they need. 

While diversity is a buzzword that we often hear nowadays, true inclusivity goes beyond just acknowledging the challenges faced by women — it requires action, commitment, and systemic change. This forum toward progress was proudly co-presented by KMC Solutions and TelePerformance, two companies that lead efforts in creating opportunities for women in the workplace. 

ANZCHAM Philippines also extends its gratitude and thanks to its sponsors, whose contributions helped to make the event a resounding success: Virtua Solutions Outsourcing and GHD as Trailblazer Sponsors; Leighton Contractors Asia and Jobstreet by SEEK as Changemaker Sponsors; ChildFund Philippines as a Catalyst Supporter; Qantas as the Major Raffle Sponsor; and Aristocrat Gaming as the Corporate Giveaway Sponsor. 

The Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (ANZCHAM) Philippines held the International Women’s Day Forum 2025 at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel on Mar. 4, 2025. With its theme “For All Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, Empowerment,” ANZCHAM, representatives from various companies, and the ambassadors of Australia and New Zealand to the Philippines aimed to address gender-related issues in the workplace, diversity across different sectors, and a holistic approach to addressing diversity. 

The event featured panel discussions from distinguished members of the ANZCHAM and its partner companies, sparking conversations on inclusivity, encouragement, and finding purpose. 

The session was formally opened by Her Excellency HK Yu PSM, FCPA, the Ambassador of Australia to the Philippines, sharing the Australian Government’s International Gender Equality Strategy and its 5 key objectives: Work to end sexual and gender-based violence and advance and protect women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights, Pursue gender responsive peace and security efforts, Deliver gender equitable climate action and humanitarian assistance, Promote women’s economic equality and inclusive trade, and Support locally-led approaches to women’s leadership. 

She also encouraged the audience to think about the small things they can do to help those affected by gender-related bias and to make their own individual commitments to equality: “The best thing to bring about change is to measure it, is to hold everyone accountable to what they commit to do about actions.”

“Gender equality should mean progress for all,” Her Excellency added. 

Identify, Respect, Inspire

Keynote speaker Van Tang, the first female CEO of GHD Asia-Pacific, discussed her experience as a woman working in a male-dominated field and how she has advocated for equality in the workplace, particularly in an industry with few women holding executive positions. 

Regarding the difficulties faced when advocating for equality, she stated, “We accomplish more by being uncomfortable,” acknowledging that difficult conversations, including those about women’s health, safety, and needs, must be had to confront these issues.

Van Tang noted that businesses should remain steadfast in their journey to closing the gender gap within their company, while also being mindful of the challenges they face. She ended her speech by saying that these challenges “present a chance for opportunities” to enforce practical solutions for inclusivity and “to test the limits of what is possible.” 

Advocating for Equality in the Workplace

Achieving equality in the workplace is more than just a goal that companies should strive for and is more than just closing the gender pay gap — it’s about creating spaces for everyone, including women, to thrive in. Businesses must take active steps to create environments where women are valued, respected, and empowered to lead. 

But what does real equality look like? Panelists from GHD, Jobstreet by SEEK, and Leighton Contractors Asia gave a glimpse into their companies’ advocacies and policies to show what they have done. 

Lorraine Gomez, Operations Director for GHD, said that there are two things in place: first, career development programs for women, and second, increasing female representation in leadership roles. She also said that companies need to be intentional in their journey to inclusivity and diversity. The only question is, “When we get there, how can we sustain it?” 

Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director in Jobstreet by SEEK, said that diversity isn’t just policy; it’s practice. She highlighted how they have removed filters that often create bias (age, gender, etc.) on their recruitment platform and only ask for the competency and skill of applicants. 

In terms of measuring how women are thriving in the workplace, Andries Ludik, Operations Manager in the Philippines for Leighton Contractors, said that one way they are ensuring that women in their company are being represented are through their mentoring programs, which make sure that they are being given the proper guidance for their career to thrive. 

Empowering Women Across All Sectors

With the turn of the century, more women have been actively entering sectors that have been mainly dominated by men. Whether in STEM, business, politics, or even creative fields, breaking down barriers and bridging gender gaps is more than just representation, it demands sustained action and empowerment. 

How have some male-dominated sectors been addressing the issues regularly faced by women in their industries? 

Toni Tompar, Executive Vice President of Operations at TelePerformance, said that the company has employed a “surgical approach” in making sure that every employee has a voice, a platform, and an avenue to be able to grow as part of the company and to share their ideas. 

TelePerformance has their TP Women initiative, where they seek to address the challenges that women employees face in the workplace and drive positive change from it. Their main objective is to maintain an overall equal gender distribution in their workforce and in management positions, and to increase the proportion of women in governing bodies. 

Joel Baculi, the Head of Process and Operations at BHP Shared Services, shared the initiatives that they have employed to make their female workers feel valued. These include having a flexible working arrangement, partnering with companies that customize machinery for women workers, and making the work site comfortable for women. 

BHP Shared Services promotes engagement, safety, and productivity in their workforce, with their Inclusion and Diversity Position Statement being proof of their vision, commitment, and contributions to inclusion, equity, and diversity. Their efforts in mitigating gender pay disparities include a “blind reward” process, as well as a continuous analysis of their pay data and an annual gender pay equity review.

Donna Grande, Senior Vice President for People at QBE Grouped Shared Services Center, shared advice for younger women who are starting off their careers. “Number one, own your careers; know what you want and go for it. Number two, seek mentors and allies who are going to help you along the way. Number three, keep learning; be so curious about everything that is going on and seek answers to your questions. And the last is, believe in yourself…Believe in yourself, and you are going to go far.” 

QBE Grouped Shared Services Center (GSSC) ensures that their workplace is inclusive through their efforts of measuring a sense of belonging throughout their employees. Their aim is to give everyone an equal sense of belonging. 

Sparking Supportive Conversations Towards Diversity

Diversity is more than just numbers or representation — it’s about fostering environments and spaces where every voice is heard and valued. Conversations surrounding gender inclusivity must go beyond surface-level issues and challenge deep-rooted biases in workplaces, communities, and institutions. 

For Maya Juwita, Workplace Gender Equality Director of Investing in Women, conversations should start from the education of cultural shifts happening around the globe. “It’s in the way that women are being raised at home. Where ambition should not be your first word, assertive is not in your vocabulary…It’s how these things are being discussed,” she said. 

She also pointed out how leaders play an important role in challenging these norms, and how encouragement is important for women. 

Dr. Kristine Lor, Deputy Medical Director, Medical Advisor and Coordinating Doctor — Manila Assistance Centre of International SOS, said that pushing clients to support their programs is one way to start conversations. 

What they, Bernice Vanguardia at AusTrade and Atty. Kristine Punzalan at ANZ Philippines, agree on is that there should be more policies about women’s biology and mental health, and that women should be given access to solutions. 

The panelists also gave advice for women and women leaders, where Bernice Vanguardia said, “Be comfortable about having conversations about gender.” 

Her Excellency Dr. Catherine McIntosh, the Ambassador of New Zealand to the Philippines, addressed the audience with a reflection on New Zealand’s efforts and legacy in striving for gender equality. New Zealand was the first country to give women the right to vote, dating back to 1893. The country also continues to drive for gender equity through deliberate policy changes. 

Dr. McIntosh also discussed the I-LEAD Project, which aims to foster inclusive development, resilience-building, gender equality, and women’s empowerment for the Maori people and the Indigenous people in the Philippines. 

The day concluded with a powerful message from Dr. McIntosh, who recounted a question she received during a talk she gave in an all-girls high school in the Philippines: “How do we take part in global conversation?” 

She responded, “You don’t ask for a seat, you take it.” 

For more information about the Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce Philippines (ANZCHAM) and its events, visit their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Mother and entrepreneur, Cherilyn “Che” Secillano is a superwoman. Known as the lady behind Dwellbeing, Che’s social enterprise stands on three main tenets: providing homes with safe, toxic-free alternatives; empowering vulnerable communities with sustainable livelihoods; and employing a circular business model that is friendly towards the environment.

“Dwellbeing started from our own need and problem,” Che revealed. “My son has rhinitis and eczema and during the pandemic, this worsened due to constant hand washing and sanitizing. Our doctor advised us to go for the all-natural route, and this was when the first product – lemongrass liquid hand soap – was developed.”

Since then, Dwellbeing has expanded to include sanitizers, dishwashing liquids, shampoo bars, candles, and even accessories.

Using Anita Roddick, the founder of The Body Shop, as inspiration, Che developed the business to become a “Force for Good,” ensuring that each item upcycles, empowers, and gives back. “Each of our products is made with upcycled materials,” Che shared. Case in point: soaps are sold in a motley of containers once discarded. Refills are delivered in sanitized wine bottles, while the liquid version is presented in a jug of Tanduay.

“As our business grew, we were fortunate to meet like-minded circular partners who supply [materials] to us,” Che explained. “Restaurants and bars supply us with bottles. Tobi Peanuts has provided us with the discarded peanut sacks that we use for our gift pouches. The retired hotel linens that we upcycle into sleeping masks are from Azzurro Hotel.”

Each upcycled product is also expertly created by different local communities that rely on Dwellbeing as a source of livelihood. This empowers vulnerable communities such as people with disabilities (PWDs) and women. “As our business grew, we needed a workforce,” Che shared. “We tapped into the left-behind sector and have now evolved to be a deaf-driven social enterprise. Our team is 100% deaf, including our retail sales team.”

In fact, their research and development process focuses heavily on the community they choose to work with. “For us, the creative process starts with the questions: ‘What can this community make?’ and ‘What are their skills?’ From there, I develop a line centered around what they are good at,” Che explained. “The objective is to make it sustainable, long term for everyone, and not just a one-time transaction.”

Partnering with the NGO Project Pearls – to whom Dwellbeing gives a portion of their gross sales to – Che had created an accessories line with the NGO’s beneficiary nanays in mind. “These ladies used to be garbage collectors but were trained to sew and weave,” she said. “With this skill, we developed an accessories line that includes bags, scarves, and pouches. We want to make this profitable and long-term so they don’t go back to being garbage collectors.”

As of December 2024, Dwellbeing has proudly upcycled over 30,000 bottles and 10,000 papers. Over 20,000 family meals have been donated through their support of Project Pearls’ Hunger Relief operations. They’ve established over ten community livelihood partners who now work to create Dwellbeing’s incredible products.

“The impact that this has had on others has been incredible,” Che said proudly. “We are happy to see others pay [this kind of goodness] it forward, using their businesses as a 'Force for Good.' We are also able to give consumers an option to practice conscious consumerism in their buying habits.”

It's obvious from Dwellbeing’s business model that the social enterprise has put its heart at the forefront of every transaction – and that it is, in fact, possible to do so. For 2025, their goal remains the same: to strengthen and expand this kind of altruistic impact.

“Every year, it has been our goal to double our numbers above,” asserted Che. “That remains true as we work towards hitting the 50k mark both for upcycled bottles and family meals served.”

Dwellbeing is available at Kultura in SM Makati as well as online. For more information, visit their Instagram.

Filipinas across the country have found an accomplice in Adelina Eugenio. Her relatable humor and easy-to-follow makeup routines have become a staple for many in her audience, which – might we add – is currently over 3.5 million strong (and growing!).

“It’s still crazy to think I have over 3 million followers on TikTok!” Adelina exclaimed. “Honestly, TikTok feels like the perfect platform for me – it lets me show [people] the real [me].”

Also known as Deng, Adelina is a content creator who’s recently skyrocketed to fame. She came into the social media scene in 2023, posting “get ready with me (GRWM)" videos on her social media page. Before it became a full-time career, Deng recalled that she would film the same kind of content before heading to her classes at university. “From there, I realized I wanted to share more of my life and ideas with a bigger audience,” she said.

Since then, the content creator has banked on both authenticity and relatability to build her name and community. “Staying true to myself and embracing my unique humor and personality is what really helped me stand out,” she mused. “People can tell when you're real, and it’s so much easier to connect with them that way.”

Of course, consistency is key too. Posting regularly keeps the momentum going, which Deng admitted is helpful when navigating unpredictable algorithms. Today, she’s active on three platforms: TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. And while she is her most authentic self on each one, she revealed that different types of content work differently on each one.

“TikTok is all about short, catchy, and fun videos that grab attention right away,” she explained. “On Instagram, I get to showcase more polished content – I can share everything from photos, stories, and reels. It’s a more curated space where I focus on aesthetics and storytelling. Facebook, on the other hand, is where I really focus on building a community. I love interacting with my audience there, whether it's replying to messages or joining discussions.”

Yet, out of all these platforms, Deng finds most of her fan base on TikTok. There, she collaborates with fellow creators such as Zoozoo, who she acknowledges as someone she already follows and admires. She's also filmed content with personalities such as Christian Bautista and Lauren Spencer Smith.

But even on her own, it’s obvious that Deng’s humor – often loud and energetic – is a magnet for viewers. Already knowledgeable about the social media scene, Deng shares that gaining followers – and attention – isn't always easy.

“The first three seconds are crucial for grabbing attention,” she shares of Tiktok. “So I always think of a catchy opening hook. For example, I might ask my followers to guess what I’m about to unbox, or even start with an excited scream to show how hyped I am for a product.”

These kinds of tips showcase Deng’s mastery of her platform. And while she acknowledges that luck has had a role in her virality, she knows that proper timing and understanding algorithms are even bigger factors when determining who gets to be under the spotlight – or on someone’s screen.

“That’s why I always emphasize the importance of posting regularly; the frequency helps keep your content visible on people’s feeds. But beyond that, hard work and genuine passion are the real foundation,” she stressed.

Follow Adelina on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok