The University of the Philippines Women’s Varsity Softball Team expresses its sincere gratitude to Ms. Sophia Lapus, Marketing Manager of Mama Sita’s and Isabel Lapus CEO of Kosmas Athletic Ventures for the continued support of the team through the donation of two KRYO Louisville Slugger composite softball bats, formally turned over earlier today at the UP Diliman CHK Baseball Field.
In a simple turnover ceremony, Mr. Lapus together with his daughters Isabel and Sophia Lapus, personally handed over the new equipment to the team. The donation comes at a crucial time as the UP Softball Team intensifies its preparations for the UAAP Season 88 Softball Competition, scheduled to begin in early February 2026. According to Assoc. Prof. Francis “Coach Kiko” B. Diaz, the bats will play an important role in enhancing the team’s training and overall performance as they head into the new season.
Mama Sita’s Food Corporation is one of the main sponsors of the UP Women’s Varsity Softball Team for School Year 2025–2026 and UAAP Season 88, demonstrating the company’s sustained commitment to collegiate sports and athlete development. Last October 2025, with the support of Mama Sita’s Food Corp., the UP Softball Team successfully defended its championship title at the 2025 Makassar Open International Softball Tournament held in Makassar, Indonesia.
Prof Kiko Diaz, Sophia, Kim, Isabel and Coach Ronny Pagkaliawagan.
Sophia Lapus, Market Development Manager of Mama Sita’s Food Corporation, plays a key role in leading the company’s community-building and youth-focused initiatives across the Philippines along with her sister Isabel Lapus, CEO of Kosmas Athletic Ventures. Sophia and Isabel actively support programs that empower young people through sports, education, and grassroots engagement. Their involvement reflects Mama Sita’s and Kosmas’ commitment to investing in the next generation and using athletics as a platform to inspire leadership, confidence, and positive impact among Filipino youth.
The UP Women’s Varsity Softball Team extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mama Sita’s Food Corporation and Kosmas Athletic Ventures for their unwavering support and partnership as the team continues to strive for excellence both locally and internationally.
The challenge of isolation, keenly felt in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas such as Batanes Province, requires more than simple aid and demands specialized expertise and unified effort. This need was met head-on by the Guro, Pulis, Sundalo na may Galing, Puso, at Sigasig (GPS²) outreach program spearheaded by the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. (MBFI) and the three distinguished alumni networks of its Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) Outstanding Filipino Teachers, Police Officers, and Soldiers, along with other private and civil society organizations.
The unique strength of GPS² lies in its multi-sectoral foundation, pooling resources and specialized skills from the Network of Outstanding Teachers and Educators (NOTED), The Organization of Philippine Soldiers with Outstanding Leadership (TOPSOLDIERS), and the Police Officers Responsible for Organizing, Transforming, and Empowering Communities (PROTECT). This convergence of excellence is supported by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Department of Education alongside partners like One Meralco Foundation, Manila Tytana Colleges and Rotary Club of Makati Metro, Rotary Club of New Manila East, Rotary Club of Camp Crame, Rotary Club of Makati Poblacion, and Rotary Club of Makati Zobel, and The Fraternal Order of Eagles-Philippine Eagles.
“Naglalayon na magsilbing tanglaw ang GPS² sa patuloy ng pagbabago at pag-angat ng Ivana at marami pang komunidad sa ating bansa,” (“GPS² aims to be a guiding light for the continuous progress and transformation of Ivana, Batanes Province and many other communities across the country.”) said Joseph Anthony M. Quesada, Metrobank Foundation executive director.
GPS² received immediate local validation because it was grounded in the community’s own identified needs, gathered through close consultation with the local government units (LGUs). It also aligns directly with the Batanes Provincial Government’s priority program, Mission H.O.P.E., which focuses on health, housing, opportunities, peace and order, preparedness, education, and e-governance.
Support to Inclusive Learning
Bridging the distance in educational access meant providing highly specialized training and resources. Forty-three teachers from Basco Central School and various schools in Ivana Municipality were given critical knowledge during a session on Inclusive Teaching Strategies and Behavior Modification for learners diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) facilitated by Amcy Esteban—2015 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher—and her colleague from the DepEd Division of Manila, Teacher Ynna Marie Manzano. Furthermore, Police Major Mae Ann Cunanan and Police Lieutenant Marsha Agustin—both Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Police Officers—together with Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Teacher Edgar Durana, led a sign language proficiency workshop for 10 Batanes PNP Women and Children’s Protection Desk officers and local Special Education (SPED) teachers. The session strengthened their ability to communicate with residents with speech and hearing impairments, allowing them to offer more responsive and compassionate support.
2023 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Police Officer Major Mae Ann Cunanan demonstrating the essential Filipino Sign Language to help officers assigned to the PNP Women and Children’s Protection Desk communicate with speech- and hearing-impaired residents in their communities.
To aid in learning, schools in the municipality also received five desktop computers from Manila Tytana Colleges, a laptop from the 2025 police officer awardee, Police Master Sergeant Ivan Velasco, five Smart TVs from PNPA Class of 2001, 10 printers with ink from the Metrobank Foundation, and 981 workbooks from TOPSOLDIERS and NOTED. Student safety was also addressed directly when Police Major Helen L Dela Cruz conducted a lecture on Republic Act 7610 (Anti-Child Abuse Law) for the children of the Ivana Elementary School.
Overall Health Support
Promoting overall wellness was a key component of the mission, extending from basic physical health to mental resilience. Apart from medical and eye check-ups benefitting 158 individuals, the GPS2 team also provided a crucial session focused on Workplace Mental Wellness and Dealing with Stress facilitated by 2024 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Teacher Dr. Regina Hechanova-Alampay for 85 teachers and police officers. To promote access to healthy produce, PLTCOL Maria Susana V. Pascual led an Organic Farming lecture for 33 farmers. Participants also received seeds and gardening tools to help them start their own sustainable gardens and improve their harvests
Focusing on foundational health practices, Police Lieutenant Colonel Maria Susana Pascual conducted an engaging lecture for 61 students, using interactive demonstrations and a lively dance performance, emphasizing proper tooth brushing and handwashing as part of the W.A.S.H. Program. Following the lecture, 200 learners were given hygiene kits consisting of toothpaste, a toothbrush, shampoo, and bath soap, thanks to PROTECT members and Procter & Gamble Philippines and all 344 learners of Ivana Municipality were given a pair of rubber slippers.
Support for Community Preparedness
To ensure the safety of the youth, ENS Fernando Parcon (Ret), a 2016 Outstanding Filipino Soldier and Rotary Club of Makati Metro president, led the basic self-defense training using arnis for high school learners. The municipality also received 336 food packs from the Philippine National Police, 960 pairs of slippers from police officers, 40 solar lights from the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 5 solar lamps from a police officer awardee, PMSg Dennis Bendo, and 150 solar flashlights from One Meralco Foundation; more than 20 mobility equipment, such as wheelchairs, canes, and walkers, from the Rotary Club of Makati Zobel for 15 individuals; 70 first aid kits from Manila Tytana Colleges; five generator units from the Fraternal Order of Eagles for five different Barangay LGUs; and 170 emergency kits from Makati and Pasig LGUs to enhance community preparedness.
Nominate a Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipino Today
The remarkable success of this multi-sectoral effort in Batanes is a testament to the powerful difference exemplary individuals can make in their communities. Be part of this movement to amplify excellence by nominating outstanding teachers, soldiers, and police officers who go beyond duty, lead with compassion, and inspire change through the Nomination Portal: https://bit.ly/2026OF-Nominate.
Beyond championing excellence in public service through Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos program, MBFI also uplifts learners and educators; preserves and promotes Philippine art; and partners strategically with social development organizations to implement transformative programs that address urgent needs in health, education, livelihood, and disaster risk reduction and management.
The National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), in partnership with the Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), successfully concluded the Philippine Disability Expo and Concert 2025, a three-day gathering that brought together government leaders, advocates, employers, organizations, and families in support of disability inclusion. The event was held on December 2–4, 2025 at Megatrade Hall 1 & 2, SM Megamall, culminating in a concert attended by hundreds of participants.
Day 1: Opening Ceremony and Conversations on Neurodiversity
The Expo opened on December 2 with messages of support from key partners and agencies. The program began with the Mandaluyong Drum & Lyre and an opening performance by Kidz Groove, followed by welcome remarks from Engr. Bien C. Mateo, Senior Vice President for Operations and SM Cares Program Director for PWDs.
NCDA Executive Director Glenda D. Relova delivered the opening message, followed by insights from Grant Javier, Executive Director of Project Inclusion Network. A video message of support was delivered by Australian Embassy Second Secretary Abigail Bakker (DFAT) while Atty. Zebedin M. Azis, Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental & Legislative Affairs of the DSWD delivered the keynote message.
Ribbon cutting ceremony.
The ribbon-cutting formally opened the Expo, leading into the first major session of the day: “Beyond Labels: Parenting in the World of Neurodiversity,” a fireside chat moderated by Candy Pangilinan, featuring Saab and Jim Bacarro, Ginger Gaddi, and RJ Jimenez, who also performed a song number. Exhibitor presentations and special performances closed Day 1.
Day 2: International Day of Persons with Disabilities and Firefly Screening
The second day coincided with the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).
The morning began with the screening of “Firefly,” the first Filipino film with Audio Description, held at SM Cinema 2. This was followed by the recognition of the GITC Awardees from Valenzuela City, Quezon City, Makati City, and Muntinlupa City.
In the afternoon, audiences participated in the Firefly Talkback Dialogue, an interactive forum featuring an open Q&A on accessible storytelling and media representation. Exhibitor presentations continued, followed by the PBDN Learning Session with Nestlé Philippines, which shared workplace accessibility practices and success stories of employees with disabilities. The day concluded with the recognition of partner organizations and the celebration of workplace inclusion achievements.
Day 3: Closing Activities and #PwedengPWDe Concert
The Expo’s final day featured interactive activities, games, and engagements with exhibitors in the morning and afternoon.
In the evening, the event culminated in the #PwedengPWDe Dito: A Benefit Concert. hosted by Pauline Versoza, seasoned journalist and media professional. The show opened with the Mandaluyong Drum & Lyre, followed by welcome remarks from Grant Javier, PIN’s ED.
The concert featured a lineup of PWD and mainstream artists, including:
Sugarcane
Anne Charmaine Santos & Benedict Banghulot
Igman Tarubal (Spoken Word)
Melissa Corpus
Vincent Ebio (Dance Performance)
Eman Macaso
Princess Velasco
Leanne and Naara
I Belong to the Zoo (Finale performance)
The organizers opened the concert free to all PWDs and implemented enhanced accessibility measures so participants could fully engage in and enjoy the celebration. The audience enjoyed a night of music that highlighted representation, creativity, and the shared advocacy for an inclusive arts and culture landscape.
Fireside chat – “Beyond Labels – Parenting in the World of Neurodiversity.
A Collective Step Toward Inclusion
The Philippine Disability Expo and Concert 2025 brought together more than 80 exhibitors from various sectors, including government agencies, NGOs, advocacy groups, employers, and PWD-owned enterprises. Across three days, attendees engaged in learning sessions, forums, recognition programs, and creative showcases that underscored the importance of accessibility, equitable opportunities, and community participation.
NCDA, PIN, and PBDN expressed their appreciation for the strong support of partners, exhibitors, and participants who contributed to advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Led by the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), the expo brings together advocates, organizations, allies, and community members in a dynamic, collaborative, and empowering space.
In celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), in partnership with the Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), proudly presents the Philippine Disability Expo 2025, happening on December 2–4, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM at Megatrade Hall 1 & 2, SM Megamall, Metro Manila.
The Expo stands as one of the country’s major gatherings dedicated to advancing disability inclusion by recognizing the diverse contributions of persons with disabilities (PWDs) across workplaces, communities, and the creative sector. Led by the NCDA, the expo brings together advocates, organizations, allies, and community members in a dynamic, collaborative, and empowering space.
Instead of functioning as a job fair or recruitment event, the Philippine Disability Expo 2025 highlights learning, collaboration, and the exchange of practical insights on accessibility and inclusive employment. Through guided discussions, workshops, and shared experiences, participants gain a deeper understanding of how to create supportive, adaptive, and equitable work environments.
Across the three-day event, guests may explore exhibits featuring up to 80 participating organizations, including enterprises, PWD-led businesses, advocacy groups, government agencies, and institutions showcasing inclusive programs, accessible solutions, and innovations that promote participation and empowerment.
Culminating the celebration on December 4 at 7:00 PM is the #PwedengPWDe Dito! A Benefit Concert, produced by PIN and PBDN. The concert will feature performances by PWD artists alongside Filipino acts such as Leanne & Naara, Sugarcane, and I Belong to the Zoo. It aims to highlight creativity, visibility, and representation by showing that inclusion involves opportunity, participation, culture, and community presence. All concert proceeds will support projects and programs that advance opportunities and improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities.
Through the Expo and Concert, NCDA, PIN, and PBDN reaffirm their shared commitment to fostering equal opportunity, strengthening cross-sector collaboration, and honoring the stories, skills, and leadership of the disability community. Together, they continue to move toward a society where PWDs are recognized not for their limitations, but for their potential, artistry, and impact.
For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, contact Nieva Repolona, Event Public Relations Head (PIN), at disabilityexpo@projectinclusion.ph or 0977-819-3249.
About the Organizers
Project Inclusion Network (PIN) is a non-profit organization dedicated to enabling access to work opportunities for persons with disabilities through advocacy, partnerships, and innovation.
The Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN) is a business-led organization that promotes disability-inclusive workplace practices, helping companies create opportunities and remove barriers for employees with disabilities.
Ruby’s Precious Moments is an official media partner of Philippine Disability Expo 2025
In a landmark celebration of the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations this year, Taal Vista Hotel—one of the Philippines’ most iconic heritage icons—was conferred as a UN Peace Center and Global Citizens Hub, solidifying its role as a beacon for culture, sustainability, and community-based peace initiatives.
The conferment on October 21, led by the United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP), a civic partner of the UN, which was founded to promote peace, education, and diplomacy, and the United Network of Global Citizens (UNGC), in partnership with SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC), carries the theme “Building the Future Together.”
In her welcome message, Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno, SMHCC Senior Vice President said, “As a company rooted in the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and nation-building, SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation stands in solidarity with the vision and values championed by the United Nations. We take great pride in Taal Vista Hotel’s legacy, which now serves as a hub for meaningful dialogue, education, collaboration, and purposeful action.”
Peace Center in a Filipino heritage landmark
“By anchoring a Peace Center in a Filipino heritage landmark like Taal Vista, we declare that peace is not built in conference halls alone—it begins where history, culture, and community meet. UN’s sustainable goals are not just policies; they are a living promise to humanity,” UNGC Founder and President Jenny Pearl Ninalga stressed during the event.
Mr. Roderick “Ric” Cruz, Global President, United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNA Phils), spearheaded the formal turn over and raising of the UN flag during the conferment rites.
He reminded the audience that “a UN Flag hoisted on our soil reminds us of our collective commitment to peace — because no matter which country we come from, we are united under one flag, the flag of the United Nations.”
“The hoisting of the United Nations Flag today is more than ceremony — it is a declaration of shared purpose — the Philippines, being one of the original signatories of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,” he said.
SM Hotels & Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) Executives with UNA-Phils, UNGC, Taal Vista Hotel, and delegates.
Cruz further noted that “a UN Flag gives weight to the place where it is hoisted — and when we name a ballroom or a hall as a Peace Center, we do not just assign a title, we give meaning and mission to that space.”
In her acceptance speech, Ms. Brenda Cabuyao, Director of Operations, Taal Vista Hotel Director of Operations, Taal Vista Hotel, said: “We envision Taal Vista Hotel as a place where meaningful conversations are sparked, where culture and community find harmony, and where every guest is reminded that peace is not just an aspiration—it is an action, lived and shared.”
“As we accept this conferment, we are inspired to continue creating spaces that uplift, connect, and empower. May this milestone remind us all that each of us holds a part in shaping a world that is more compassionate, collaborative, and at peace,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism, through Regional Director Marites Castro (Region IV-A Calabarzon), commended the efforts of UNGC to foster global citizenship through education, dialogue, and community empowerment.
“These ideals resonate deeply with our mission in the tourism sector—to build bridges among peoples, celebrate diversity, and nurture a culture of respect and inclusivity,” she said.
The event also featured the UN Flag Raising Ceremony, the Peace Pledge, and a symbolic unity gathering with UNAP, UNGC, SMHCC and distinguished delegates, all joining hands in the spirit of peace and global collaboration.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) executives with the Taal Vista Hotel team during the UN flag-raising ceremony.
Notably, during the event, SMHCC President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy was honored with the UNA Presidential Medal and World Changers Award for her leadership in heritage preservation, sustainable tourism, and community empowerment through SMHCC.
Gracing the momentous event were the top executives of Taal Vista Hotel and SMHCC, namely Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno, Senior Vice President – Operations, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Ms. Agnes Pacis, Vice President – Commercial, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Ms. Leah Magallanes, Vice President – Quality and Sustainability, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Ms. Nian Rigor, Asst. Vice President – Public Relations, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp.; Ms. Brenda Cabuyao – Director of Operations, Taal Vista Hotel; and Ms. Mary Rose Lomibao – Director of Sales and Marketing, Taal Vista Hotel.
Diplomats, business leaders, educators, and partners in peace were also represented to this gathering of purpose. In attendance were Mr. Shah Md. Ashraful Alam Mohon, First Secretary of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, UNESCO representative Dr. Ethel Agnes Valenzuela, Carlos P Romulo Awardee Dr. Margarita Bellesteros, peace-advocates from Marawi City, and many more.
The day ended with a fellowship cocktails with live music and warm conversation. Guests also shared their thank you messages and reflections on peace in between.
F1 Hotel Manila BGC proudly continues its heartfelt partnership with the National Children’s Hospital and the Thalassemia Kids Club for 2025. This renewed collaboration is a shining example of the hotel’s steadfast dedication to creating initiatives that make a meaningful impact on children fighting life-threatening conditions.
At the heart of this partnership lies the F1 Cares Blood Donation Program, an annual initiative that embodies the spirit of compassion and community. For Thalassemia patients who rely on regular blood transfusions to survive, every drop of donated blood promises hope, healing, and a brighter tomorrow.
MOA signing ceremony marking the partnership between F1 Hotel Manila BGC and the National Children’s Hospital. From left to right: Dra. Alyssa Eusebio of the National Children’s Hospital, Ms. Cindy I. Brual, General Manager of F1 Hotel Manila BGC, and Dra. Maria Katrina Buenaflor-Barcelona of the National Children’s Hospital.
This year’s blood donation drive occurred on January 11, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at F1 Hotel Manila BGC. Volunteers, sponsors, and supporters united again in a powerful demonstration of humanity and care. Sponsors such as Klaypel and Cherifer generously contributed to this cause, reflecting the importance of collective effort in creating meaningful change. Adding a spark of joy to the event, exceptional guest artists from GMA, Kim Perez, and Shuvee Etrata were present to inspire and uplift attendees and donors alike.
GMA x Klaypel x F1
The enduring collaboration with the National Children’s Hospital and the Thalassemia Kids Club was a beacon of solidarity and compassion. Together, F1 Hotel Manila BGC and its partners aimed to provide blood donations and a message of hope and resilience to children and families facing overwhelming challenges.
Together, we can create ripples of change that extend far beyond the hotel’s walls. Even a single drop of blood can light up a life and spark endless possibilities for those in need.
On December 3, 2024, Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and leading financial services firm JPMorganChase celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) by hosting the “Empowered Summit: Making a Difference with 1%” at the SMX Convention Center Aura. This event brought together government representatives, experts, and employers to advance policies on disability inclusion and promote the equal participation of Persons with Disabilities in the workforce.
Empowered Summit, co-hosted by Ms. Stephanie Zubiri – author of “Chalky the Chameleon,” a story about neurodiversity and self-discovery – began with insightful discussions on Republic Act No. 10524, which mandates 1% of government positions for persons with disabilities, and encourages the private sector to follow suit. Experts and leaders, namely Mr. Randy Calsena from the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Ms. Carmen Zubiaga of the Women with Disabilities Leap to Women Social and Economic Program (WOW-LEAP), Atty. Judith Dongallo-Chicano of the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Ms. Linartes Viloria of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and Ms. Charmagne Adonis of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) tackled barriers in policy implementation and the need for stronger initiatives on improving reasonable accommodations and enhancing accessibility.
Reactors from various organizations provided valuable insights on advancing inclusion in the workplace. Mr. Bronson Escalderon, from Benilde School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS), emphasized the need for guidance and upskilling within the Deaf community, while Ms. Carla Francesca Nobleza of Kasali Tayo highlighted the importance of normalizing the presence of persons with disabilities in the workforce. Real change starts with leaders who prioritize diversity and inclusion as central to their organizational mission,“ said Ramil Dela Cruz, Vice President for Recruitment and lead for disability hiring at JPMorganChase.
As a highlight of the event, success stories from self-advocates employed in inclusive organizations were featured. The media advocacy campaign “May 1% Ka Ba?”, in partnership with the Austrian Embassy, was officially launched. This showcased personal stories of persons with disabilities thriving in their supportive workplaces. These included Aileen Gay Sibal, a Deaf self-advocate; Lou Mallari, Rayne Saul Hugo and Michael Ladrillo, who are persons with orthopedic disabilities; and Benito Manangkil, a person with an intellectual disability, whose companies have set the standard for disability-inclusive employment. Both Teleperformance and Citihub have exceeded the 1% mandate, with Teleperformance reaching 5% and Citihub reaching 100%.
Meanwhile, representatives from the City Government of Mandaluyong, Ariel Nuestro and Christian Delos Santos, who are persons with physical disability, also shared how their local government ensures equal opportunities within public service, employing 3% of their workforce as persons with disabilities.
The event concluded with a thanksgiving dinner to recognize the partners and organizations committed to fostering a more inclusive society. As a member of the steering committee of the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), JPMorganChase is at the forefront of cultivating a supportive environment for persons with disabilities.
Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPMC) paves the way for disability-inclusion in the country through the advancement of policies. Together, they hold a year-end gathering in celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) on December 3, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center Aura, entitled ‘Empowered Summit: Making a Difference with 1%.’
Empowered Summit supports this annual celebration through meaningful dialogues and a showcase of success stories. The afternoon panel discussion focuses on Republic Act No. 10524, the law mandating government agencies to reserve 1% of their workforce for persons with disabilities, while encouraging private corporations to follow suit. This session features disability-inclusion experts from various sectors, including Mr. Randy Calseña from the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Ms. Carmen Zubiaga of the Women with Disabilities Leap to Women Social and Economic Program (WOWLEAP Inc.), Ms. Linartes Viloria of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and others, to explore how workplaces can achieve the 1% inclusion mandate.
Manish Shah, Managing Director of JPMorgan Chase, and the Disability-Inclusion Champions of JPMorgan Chase, lead the way on disability-inclusion initiatives together with Project Inclusion Network and the Philippine Business and Disability Network.
As a culmination of the event, a thanksgiving dinner is shared by PIN partners to celebrate a great year for the advocacy. Alongside this, PIN’s media campaign entitled “May 1% Ka Ba?”, sponsored by the Austrian Embassy, is officially launched. This campaign seeks to raise awareness about the 1% inclusion mandate by showcasing the stories of self-advocates currently working in different organizations that practice inclusive employment.
Stories from Aileen Gay Sibal, a Deaf self-advocate; Lou Mallari, Rayne Saul Hugo, and Michael Ladrillo, who are persons with orthopedic disabilities; and Benito Manangkil, a person with an intellectual disability, welcome us into their world, which allows diversity to thrive in supportive environments. They represent their employers, Teleperformance and Citihub, which have achieved around 5% and almost 100% of the inclusion mandate, respectively. Both companies are members of the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), a local platform for collaboration and support that encourages recruitment and retention within the private sector.
Multi-sectoral consultation and dialogues are priority for the Project Inclusion Network as it paves the way for collaboration and policy-driven advocacies together with JPMorgan Chase.
Lastly, we will learn about the lived experiences of Ariel Nuestro, who has cerebral palsy resulting in mobility challenges, and Christian Delos Santos, who has an orthopedic disability. As representatives of the City Government of Mandaluyong, they highlight the importance of government-led initiatives in empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring equal opportunities within public service.
Stephanie Zubiri hosted the event.
Empowered Summit is hosted by Ms. Stephanie Zubiri a storyteller who recently published the animated book “Chalky the Chameleon,” a tale for anyone who has ever felt out of place.
To know more about the event and our advocacy, contact Cece Hicaro, PIN’s Disability-Inclusive Workplaces Program Officer and part of the Technical Secretariat team of the PBDN, through cecilia.hicaro@projectinclusion.ph or 0923-469-8700.
Project Inclusion Network (PIN) is a non-profit organization dedicated to realizing the potential of Persons with Disability by empowering individuals and fostering disability inclusion across society. Through its access-to-work opportunities model, PIN prepares jobseekers with skills training and career readiness assessments while equipping employers with disability inclusion strategies, creating inclusive workplaces.
After the success of its Manila launch, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) brings Tela Tales to the “City of Love” and “City of Smiles,” in partnership with Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod. Led by SMHCC’s Vice President for Quality and Sustainability, Ms. Leah Magallanes, this groundbreaking initiative aims to empower local communities and promote sustainable practices through the upcycling of discarded linens and fabrics from Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod, as well as other hotels and properties under SMHCC.
Tela Tales Visayas is a project designed to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for local artisans. In Iloilo, the initiative collaborates with the Homeless People’s Federation of the Philippines – Iloilo (HPFPI), empowering local artisans to create unique products using upcycled linens. Tela Tales Iloilo’s pioneering products will showcase a design by renowned social entrepreneur and designer, Zarah Juan. In Bacolod, the initiative partners with Negrense Volunteers for Change (NVC), a non-profit organization dedicated to community development and environmental sustainability. Tela Tales Bacolod’s pioneering products are decorative Christmas ornaments with embellishments made from empty Nespresso pods collected by Nespresso Philippines.
The finished products will be showcased and available for purchase at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod, providing a platform for the artisans to generate income. Proceeds from the sales will directly benefit the respective organizations’ charity programs, such as NVC’s Mingo Meals Nutrition Program in Bacolod.
Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod Director of Human Resources Mr. Reljun Oloroso with Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation, Inc. Marketing Manager Ms. Ria Lacson Avinante and SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Vice President for Quality and Sustainability Ms. Leah Magallanes during the awarding of the plaque of appreciation.
In conjunction with the launch, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod hosted special lunches prepared by their culinary teams headed by Chef Rufino “Fines” Dungca of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod and Chef Diego Trillana of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo. These lunches were part of SMHCC’s “Plate for the Planet” program, inspired by the World Wildlife Fund’s “Sustainable Diner.” The special menus showcased the hotels’ commitment to sustainable dining practices, emphasizing local sourcing, reduced meat consumption, and minimal waste. The events also highlighted the company’s dedication to the circular economy through food waste repurposing and local farming initiatives.
SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles said that “Tela Tales is SMHCC’s way of giving back as the company continues to grow, build, and operate more hotels in the coming years. It is a testament of SMHCC’s thrust as a socially responsible entity that looks after the welfare of the communities it operates in, because business growth and social development must go hand in hand.”
In celebration of Project PEARLS’ 14th anniversary, Globe and TM customers can now help combat hunger in the country and give disadvantaged children a better life by donating their Rewards points to the organization through the GlobeOne app.
Project PEARLS, a partner of Globe’s hunger alleviation program, The Hapag Movement, has been tirelessly working since 2010 to provide education, empowerment, nutrition, and healthcare to communities in need across Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Zambales.
As it enters another year of service, Project PEARLS is expanding its fundraising efforts to reach more supporters and make an even greater impact.
“We are happy to partner with Globe in offering this convenient yet impactful way for its customers to contribute to our cause,” said Melissa Villa, Project PEARLS Founder and Executive Director. “Every donation, no matter how small, helps us provide nutritious meals, education, and healthcare to children and families in need.”
Globe and TM customers can donate as little as one Rewards point to Project PEARLS, making it easier than ever for individuals to support the organization’s vital work. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Hapag Movement’s goal of leveraging technology and partnerships to drive collective action for sustainable development.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Project PEARLS on its 14th anniversary of making a profound difference in communities across the Philippines,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe. “To mark this milestone, we are excited to empower more people to join the fight against hunger by offering our customers the opportunity to donate their Rewards points to Project PEARLS via the GlobeOne app.”
In addition to the new GlobeOne app donation channel, Project PEARLS is commemorating its anniversary with other exciting initiatives.
Project PEARLS has launched a virtual charity auction, offering supporters the chance to bid on exclusive items such as a Taylor Swift-signed acoustic guitar, framed NBA jerseys autographed by basketball legends Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, and Steph Curry, a trip to Tuscany, and more. While primarily targeting US-based supporters, these prizes can be shipped worldwide, expanding the reach of Project PEARLS’ fundraising efforts.
The anniversary celebrations will culminate in a gala event at the end of the month, bringing together some of Project PEARLS’ biggest partners, including Globe and Canva. This event will highlight the organization’s achievements and reinforce its commitment to creating lasting change in communities across the Philippines.
Globe’s collaboration with Project PEARLS started earlier this year. The organization became an international partner of the Hapag Movement, enabling US-based individuals and corporations to contribute to the cause through the dedicated platform at https://givebutter.com/c/globe_projectpearls/. This alliance has opened up new avenues for global engagement, particularly among the 4 million Filipino-Americans in the United States.
The Hapag Movement, launched in 2022, has already made significant strides in addressing hunger in the Philippines. To date, it has provided food packs to over 95,000 Filipinos and produced 2,662 livelihood training graduates, with 2,361 of them successfully starting their own small businesses.
Despite these efforts, the need for continued support remains crucial. In June 2024, 17.6% of Filipino families reported experiencing involuntary hunger or had nothing to eat at least once, according to the latest Social Weather Stations survey. This is an increase from 14.2% in March 2024.
Hapag Movement and Project PEARLS call on the public to support its various fundraising activities as every contribution helps the organization move closer to its vision of a world where no child goes hungry.
