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The new P1,000 polymer banknote caused a stir in July when a disappointed netizen took to Facebook to share that a mall had refused to accept her slightly folded bill.
The post of the netizen, a certain Reylen Lopez, can no longer be accessed on Facebook, although several media outlets have reported about the viral incident. According to Lopez, she was about to use the bill for payment but was told by the teller that they cannot accept it as per mall policy as it was folded.
The incident and the concerns it raised in the hivemind of social media prompted the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) at the time to release an advisory telling retailers and banks to accept folded polymer banknotes as daily payment transactions.
The BSP began circulating the polymer banknote in April 2022, which bore a new look that erased World War II heroes Josefa Llanes Escoda, Vicente Lim, and Jose Abad Santos for the face of the Philippine eagle.
The new banknote is smarter, easier to sanitize, more durable from temperature and time, and more inclusive, with five embossed dots for those with visual challenges.
To avoid damaging your crisp notes, here are the do's and don'ts of handling you should keep in mind.
Do's
Keep your banknotes flat. As in the netizen's post, her P1,000 bill was rejected for its fold, so ensure you keep your polymer banknotes in a wallet. A suggestion: perhaps it might be best to go for longer wallets than those that fold in the middle so as not to risk creasing them. If you do end up creasing your note, the BSP recommended flattening it with your hands or applying pressure.
Keep them clean. The new banknote's smooth and non-absorptive material makes it easier to sanitize. To keep it from being grimy, simply wipe it with a damp cloth or clean with an alcohol-based sanitizer with a towel.
Use your notes to only pay for goods and services. The BSP has strongly advised the public not to hoard the new banknotes or attempt to sell them for more money.
Don'ts
Writing or marking the polymer banknotes is a no-no.
Excessively creasing or crumpling, tearing, cutting, stapling, and ironing the new banknotes are also discouraged.
While rubber bands in the past have been used to secure wads of cash, these may potentially damage your banknotes, so it's best not to use them. The BSP recommended using paper bands for this.
The BSP also discourages damaging the clear windows, metallic features, and security features of the notes.
Exposing the banknotes to high temperatures, open flame, and chemicals like bleach are likewise advised against.
Dealing With Unfit and Mutilated Banknotes
What happens when you encounter an "unfit" or "mutilated" currency note? The BSP considers a banknote unfit for circulation based on these three criteria:
It bears heavy creases, so much so that the paper's fiber has broken, and disintegration is palpable
It is badly soiled or bear writings, regardless if it has the proper life or sizing
It is limp or rag-like
Meanwhile, your currency note is considered mutilated when it falls under these conditions:
Torn parts of the banknotes are joined with tape
The note's original size has joined together due to use or if it has been torn, defaced, or perforated by insects, chemicals and others
The note has been scorched or bunched
It has been split edgewise
It no longer bears its inscribed signatures
And if the Security or Threat or Windowed Security has been partially or entirely lost.
When you encounter unfit notes, simply go to your bank of choice and have them exchanged or deposited. As for mutilated banknotes, those who possess such notes must present these to any bank, which will then give them back to the BSP to identify its "redemption value."
Mutilated notes will only be considered valid for redemption by the BSP if all of these requirements are satisfied:
The note's remaining surface area is no less than three-fifths of its original size
A part of any of the president or BSP governor's signatures is still intact
The presence of the Embedded Security Threat (EST) or Windowed Security Thread (WST), unless the banknote has been destroyed by chemicals, fire, water, or bitten by insects and rodents. According to the BSP, a note that has removed its EST or WST shall not be accepted for redemption.
Where Do They Go?
The BSP takes out from its circulation unfit and mutilated currencies due to the nationally implemented "Clean Note and Coin Policy." The BSP, in its banknotes primer, said these unfit and mutilated notes are replaced with clean and fit ones, granted that for the former, replacing the same note should be in line with the BSP's redemption rules.
BSP also shared that mutilated notes are not recirculated as they are disposed of through briquetting, crushing, and shredding.
What If You Are Caught Mutilating Banknotes?
According to the BSP, deliberately destroying, burning, defacing, and tearing the notes is unlawful, as postulated in Presidential Decree No. 247.
"Any person who violates this decree shall be fined in the amount of not more than P20,000 and/or imprisoned for a period of not more than five years," the BSP said.
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
Photo by Website/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)
Photo by Website/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
Photo by Facebook/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
Photo by Instagram/Official 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
Photo by Facebook/Rizza Lana-Sebastian
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
Courtesy of Maan Jocson
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)
Photo by Instagram/Jan Charlotte
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, co-founder, CEO, and Creative Director ofPenny 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.
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Connect. Learn. Inspire. These three words encapsulate the recently concluded “She Shines” Summit, a conference led by Leading Ladies, a community of female leaders, entrepreneurs, and creators, providing a space for women to come together and take part in meaningful conversations and engaging workshops. The members-only event took place last Saturday (Mar. 29) at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan in Robinsons Bridgetown, Quezon City, and was a shining gathering of women — from powerhouse industry leaders and seasoned business owners to community builders and career women aspiring to take the next big leap in their careers.
Founded in 2021 by Cat Ilacad, founder and CEO of Posh Nails Inc., and Rachelle Stern, CEO of Alphabetsoup Inc., the Leading Ladies community was inspired by a need to have a space for women to thrive. The founders recalled how it all started with a late-night phone call.
“I told Rache about wanting to have people to talk to when I was starting Posh Nails. I never got to form that small group where we could share suppliers, business ideas, and just rant about problems. She felt the same way,” said Cat.
“At a time when many women were isolated, struggling to kickstart new ventures, or simply in need of a supportive ear during challenging times, we created this space. Leading Ladies is all about fostering an empowering community where women can connect, share experiences, and support each other’s growth — both personally and professionally,” added Rachelle.
On Growing a Community of Women Trailblazers
Leading Ladies started with virtual events, connecting women during the pandemic. Their humble network slowly evolved into a thriving community of like-minded women — females who want to create, innovate, and explore possibilities in their respective careers.
After a short hiatus in 2023, a break spent focusing on recovering their businesses from the pandemic, the community relaunched in 2024 with a mission to expand. It was also around this time that content creator and entrepreneur Rica Peralejo joined theclub, which helped enhance the community and drive their mission forward.
“The relaunch in May 2024 was a pivotal moment for us. We had about 1,300 members then. Today, we’re proud to have grown the community to over 10,000 strong. The messages we receive from our members inspire us every day, knowing that we’re making a real difference,” shared Cat in an official press statement.
“We’ve witnessed remarkable energies and genuine connections among our members,” Rachelle remarked. “The sense of belonging and community that emerged was incredibly impactful, reaffirming our commitment to building a space where every woman feels supported and empowered.”
Photo by The Beat AsiaPhoto by The Beat Asia
After two virtual summits, the Leading Ladies finally launched their first in-person conference last Mar. 29. The 2025 She Shines Summit featured a stellar lineup of keynote speakers across several industries, including Jacqe Gutierrez of Happy Skin, Dani Barretto as the digital marketing guru, Marj Maroket as the content creation expert, and Cristalle Belo, who talked about the Belo Legacy, among others. The topics ranged from scaling a business to balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, showcasing the impressive feats women have achieved and continue to excel in when it comes to juggling their careers and responsibilities.
CEO and founder of Happy Skin, Jacqe Gutierrez, talked about her experiences in running a business and the concepts behind their Seoul White product, which was inspired by the need to have skincare that catered to Filipinos’ unique skin types. “We wanted to bring in that technology, tweak it so that it fits better the Filipino skin,” she said. “Also, to make it a little bit affordable so that everyone can experience Korean glowing skin.”
She also shared valuable insights as a business owner and shared the most challenging part about being an entrepreneur. “A lot of things that are very hard in the business are not starting the brand. It’s very easy to start a brand; think of a concept, think of a campaign... The hard part is sustaining it. How do you sustain it for the next three, five, or ten years? How do you have enough cash flow to fuel the business? Or how do you have enough interesting, creative insights and ideas?”
She also mentioned how having a good product is the key to success, quoting, “There’s no bad PR if you have a good product.”
Meanwhile, Antonette Aquino, a registered financial planner, public speaker, and content creator, advised budding entrepreneurs on navigating economic risks. “When you start a business, you have to ensure that you invest in risk management. So, make sure that when you have a business, you have a financial cushion, you’re able to plan regularly, and most importantly, you have to budget. I know it’s super basic, but that’s something that’s overlooked.”
Photo by The Beat AsiaPhoto by The Beat Asia
The event also highlighted activities and booths that provided opportunities for attendees to network and engage in workshops. There was the “Spark Tank”activity judged by Rica Paralejo, Lynell Lopez-Tan (content creator, entrepreneur), and Mikaela Lagdameo (model, entrepreneur), which allowed start-up founders and aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their products through a pitch-style competition, a series of panel discussions, and networking sessions. We also got to experience the “Hall of Empowerment” — a lineup of booths featuring women-owned businesses offering creative workshops and pampering activities.
Throughout a packed, full day of activities and invigorating conversations with inspiring women leaders and business owners, it’s clear to see that the Leading Ladies trio succeeded in equipping women to lead better lives through this summit. It’s a wonderful gathering fueled by encouragement and support, one that pushes for personal growth and will no doubt lead to professional empowerment and success.
At the closing remarks, Cat addressed the community and said, “We want to believe in all your goals, in all of whatever you want to achieve. Leading Ladies will always be here for you. Just message us, let us know how we can make this community better, because we can’t do this alone. But with you guys, we can make it better, we can make it bigger.”
Become part of this thriving community that encourages you to shine your brightest. Membership fees for the Ladies League are at P2,499, and are inclusive of creative vision sessions, wellness and business integration, intimate dining experiences, and personal development. Not to mention, you’ll also get to attend the next “She Shines” summit for a special members-only price. This includes priority registration for all the complimentary workshops and pampering sessions, as well as an exclusive invite to the After-Summit gathering. You can sign up here.
For updates and networking opportunities, you can join the Leading Ladies Community on Facebook or follow them on Instagram.
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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.
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.
Her Excellency HK Yu PSM, FCPA, the Ambassador of Australia to the Philippines, opens the event. | Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (ANZCHAM) Philippines
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
Van Tang, the first female CEO of GHD Asia-Pacific | Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (ANZCHAM) Philippines
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
Speakers Lorraine Gomez, Dannah Majarocon, and Andries Ludik discuss advocating for equality in the workplace. | Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (ANZCHAM) Philippines
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 Asiagave 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
Speaker Donna Grande shared advice for women who just started on their career. | Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (ANZCHAM) Philippines
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
Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (ANZCHAM) Philippines
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 closes the event. | Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (ANZCHAM) Philippines
Her ExcellencyDr. 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.
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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.
Cherilyn “Che” Secillano | Courtesy of Cherilyn Secillano
“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.
Soaps are packaged in upcycled bottles | Instagram/Dwellbeing
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.”
Dwellbeing is a deaf-driven community | Instagram/Dwellbeing
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.”
Dwellbeing has provided 20,000 meals through their collaboration with Project Pearls | Instagram/Dwellbeing
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 consumerismin 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.
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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.
A makeup look by Adelina | Instagram/Adelina Eugenio
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.
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Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the Philippines' central monetary authority, has launched the first Philippine Polymer Banknote Series.
According to BSP, the new, polymer-made banknotes are “smarter, cleaner, and stronger” than the previous version, as they are equipped with “more sophisticated security features, have a smooth and non-absorptive surface, and are more durable than the paper banknotes.”
In a ceremony held in Malacañang on Dec. 19, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized that the polymer banknote series can last up to seven and a half years, five times longer than the paper bills.
BSP also switched the design of the polymer bills to focus more on protected wildlife across the archipelago, contrary to the paper banknotes’ national heroes-centered layout. This move, according to the bank, is to “remind Filipinos of their role as responsible stewards of the country’s natural resources.”
The bank, however, also preserved some notable elements from the paper banknotes. Below are design highlights of each polymer banknote denomination:
P1,000 - Philippine eagle and sampaguita flower, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, South Sea pearl, and the T’nalak weave design
P500 - Visayan spotted deer and Acanthephippium mantinianum, Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, blue-naped parrot, and Southern Philippine weave design
P100 - Palawan peacock-pheasant and Ceratocentron fesselii, Mayon Volcano, whale shark, and Bicol Region weave design
P50 - Visayan leopard cat and Vidal’s lanutan, Taal Lake, native maliputo fish, and Batangas embroidery design
In a separate press conference last Dec. 20, BSP encouraged the public to get to know the polymer banknote series. “The BSP encourages everyone to get to know the new banknote series — including consumers, cash handlers in banks and other financial institutions, retail stores, public transport operators, and other businesses involved in financial transactions,” said BSP Assistant Governor Mary Anne P. Lim.
This type of banknote was first introduced in the country in April 2022 with the launch of the P1,000-peso polymer bill.
Explore the Philippines’ first Philippine Polymer Banknote Series via BSP’s website.
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“There’s nothing wrong with being kuripot (stingy).”
This is the mantra of Filipino millennial content creator, Jax Reyes. Known for his helpful guides on credit cards and discounts, Jax had always been keen on all things about personal finance. Even before he left corporate life, he admits that he was always the finance guy at work, often searching for discounts, credit card deals, and ways to earn reward points and sharing them with his co-workers.
Wanting to help others and share all this knowledge with even more people, Jax began uploading content on YouTube during the pandemic and then on TikTok. His “tipid hacks,” ranging from shopping to travel, proved to be helpful to millennials and Gen Zs looking to manage their finances while experiencing the better things in life. Today, the content creator boasts over 300,000 followers on TikTok and more than 55,000 subscribers on YouTube.
In 2022, the credit card whiz co-founded the online community “KasKasan Buddies,” where they share some of the latest credit card promos, guides, and tips on how to save money, among other things. Two years since its creation, the community now has over 750,000 members on Facebook.
“[I thought], if I share it, and more people enjoy it, hindi ba mas masaya ang mundo (wouldn’t the world be happier)? For me, it's always about creating that value for other people in whatever way. And the value that I like to create was maximizing your money, maximizing every peso,” Jax told The Beat Manila.
In an exclusive interview, we caught up with Jax to learn about his own financial journey, along with his best tips on how to make the most out of your money.
The Importance of Starting Young
“I got comfortable using credit cards because early on, my dad was able to give me a supplementary credit card. When we were growing up, he taught us how to manage. It was not really for us to spend, but it was really for us to use it for emergencies,” Jax shared.
According to him, having early exposure to how to use credit cards was what ultimately piqued his interest in personal finance. It also made him more conscious about his spending habits, on what perks he could get with it, among other things.
But more than this early training with credit cards, it was really his own experiences that led him to pay more attention to his personal finances. “I was a young adult. I started earning money, sosyempre ang dami nating gusto, ‘di ba (of course we wanted a lot of things, right)? So it was really my mistakes as well, growing up,” he confessed.
To this end, Jax emphasized that starting young, especially when it comes to saving and investing, is vital.
“I always say, sa lahat ng mga content ko (on all my content) about investing, [is that] ‘you have to start early.’ One of my biggest regrets was also not starting that early. If I could have saved or invested more, I would have more right now.”
‘Credit Cards Are Not Your Enemy’
Filipinos would often associate credit cards with debt, but for Jax, it’s all about learning how to use them properly.
“That’s also the reason why I wanted to start creating content [about] credit cards. Because I want to demystify na hindi siya masama, pero kailangan din natin siyang gamitin ng tama (that it is not bad, but we need to use it wisely). We have to learn it the right way.”
On how one should assess if they should be getting a credit card, Jax said that there are three key things to consider: your ability to manage your finances, your commitment to pay your credit card bill on time, and your capability to say “no” to temptations.
@jaxreyes_ VISA OR MASTERCARD? What Credit Card should you get? What Credit Card is better? ✅ Klook Activities - https://bit.ly/Jax-Klook ✅ Klook Hotels - https://bit.ly/JaxKlookHotels (Klook Spotlight Hotel Deals) Save money on your next trip! Use my code JAX5OFF for 5% off your next Klook adventure. Available for Hotels, Adventures, Flights, Food, and so much more!! Use JAXHOTEL to get 8% off hotels with Klook Spotlight Hotel Deals! For hotels get 8% off when you use code JAXHOTEL #travelph#travel#visa#mastercard#creditcardph#fintok#learnitontiktok♬ original sound - Jax Reyes
“The credit limit that you have is not the money that you have. It’s something that’s given to you by the bank because they trust you. If you feel na pera mo ‘yan (that that’s your money), that’s where you’ll go down the rabbit hole and mababaon ka sa utang (be knee-deep in debt),” he added.
Jax also had three things to say on how one should choose the right credit card.
“People would always ask me, ‘What’s the best credit card?’ And I would always say, ‘It depends on you.’ It depends on your lifestyle. The first [thing to do] is ask yourself, ‘Where do I usually spend?’ Is it groceries? Is it traveling? Is it shopping? Iba-iba (It varies).”
The next thing to consider, according to Jax, is the perks one would want in a credit card. “Is it the perks of earning points, or earning cashbacks? [Because they’re] two different things,” he explained.
Lastly, the content creator encourages credit card beginners to look into its features. “Some credit cards would have fees, some won’t have fees, but wala masyadong (not a lot of) features.”
“For me, credit cards have different rewards. Some people like point-earning or miles-earning. Some people, on the other hand,want cashback, kasi ayaw na nilang nag-iisip ng (because they don’t want to think about) ‘What can I claim with my points?’ Gusto nila, pera na lang, ibabawas sa bill every month (They just want cashback to be deducted from their bill every month),” he added.
We've all had our own “Deserve Ko ‘To (I Deserve This/These)” moments, wanting to reward ourselves for our hard work with our hard-earned money. But sometimes, things can get out of hand, especially for people who don’t know how to control it.
When asked what he thinks about this issue, Jax had some strong opinions, “I’m okay with the ‘Deserve ko ‘to’ mindset — when it’s budgeted. Minsan, nagde-’Deserve ko ‘to’ ka na lang lagi (Often, you say ‘I deserve this’) and you make it a reason na mangutang ka (to borrow money) just to buy this stuff because you just say na ‘Deserve ko ‘to.’”
On how one could deal with this self-conflict, he said, “Ask yourself first: ‘Is it budgeted?’. If nilaanan mo ng pera (you allocated money for it) like funds mo for your wants, for your needs, then you say, ‘Deserve mo ‘to.’ If not, I don’t think deserve mo siya muna ngayon (you deserve it for now).”
Savings & Investment Tips
Aside from credit cards, the content creator also shared some helpful tips on saving up money.
“Out of sight, out of mind” is Jax’s ultimate tip when it comes to saving money. According to him, creating a separate bank account for savings alone is one of the most effective ways to set money aside for unexpected expenses.
“There are a lot of digital banks out there. Why not just create a digital bank[account]specifically for your savings only? I always wanted to push digital banks kasi mataas ‘yung mga interest (because their interest rates are high). You have the GSave, Seabank, [and] Maya. When you put it there, iiwan mo siya (then leave it there), at least tumutubo ‘yung pera mo (your money grows).”
He added, “The more you save, the more you can sleep soundly at night. We don’t want to live a life nalagi nating iniisip (where we always think), ‘Oh my God, do I have enough [money] for tomorrow?’”
With many people, especially the uninitiated, getting into investment scams, Jax also has a few pointers on how one could properly choose where to invest.
“There will always be scams out there. If you want to invest, make sure you understand what you’re getting into. Kung hindi mo siya naiintindihan (If you don’t understand it), don’t. If you don’t have the money to invest, don’t risk your daily money just because you want to invest. And of course, go with the legit platforms.”
There are a lot of ways to spend money. But for Jax, there are a lot of ways to make the most out of it, too. And the very first step is looking into yourself and your budget.
“I know that budgeting seems hard, and sometimes annoying to do. But walaeh (there's no way around it), that’s really step one. You really need to know how much [of your] money goes in and how much goes out. Because if you have a really clear picture kung saan mo ginagastos kadalasan ‘yung pera mo (of where you spend your money often), that’s where you can make slow and small adjustments in your life to be more financially sound and stable.”
Want to get more ‘tipid’ tips and credit card hacks from Jax Reyes? Make sure to follow him on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, subscribe to his YouTube channel, or join the online community KasKasan Buddies. Kaskas wisely!
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