The Philippines welcomes Vanessa Hudgens as its newest Global Tourism Ambassador

The title recognizes the Hollywood actress’ “contributions to help promote the Philippines as one of the world’s best tourism destinations.”

The Philippines offers numerous picturesque places perfect for any traveler looking for a thrilling and enjoyable getaway. For the same reason that Vanessa Hudgens believes the Philippines is a paradise waiting to be discovered. As the new tourism ambassador for the Philippines, the Filipino-American actress hopes to showcase the country’s rich heritage by retracing her Filipino roots.

On March 30, 2022, Vanessa had been appointed as the Global Tourism Ambassador for the Philippines, and she was thrilled about the opportunity.

“It’s a little bit of everything. It’s got paradise. It’s got [a] metropolitan city. It’s got kindness,” she enthusiastically expressed. “Everybody is so warm, so friendly. The people here are unique. Everyone is just so warm. I haven’t met anyone who seems like they’re not having a bad day. The hospitality is unmatched. It got wonder, and it’s just a magical place.”

The title was given by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., during a conferment ceremony at the Malacañang Palace. The title recognizes the Hollywood actress’ “contributions to help promote the Philippines as one of the world’s best tourism destinations.”

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), “The initiative is a branding campaign and marketing strategy aimed at attracting international tourists as the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Creative Arts (OPACC) and the DOT (Department of Tourism) set their sights on creating opportunities to aggressively push for the resurgence of the Philippines as a travel destination.”

The High School Musical star has started working with director Paul Soriano on a travel documentary. In partnership with the tourism department, the documentary will highlight the actress’ reconnection with her Filipino roots while promoting the country’s tourist spots. The film will also feature her relationship with her Filipino mother, Gina Guangco, and sister Stella.

Gina was born in Manila, Philippines, and left when she was 25 years old, making Vanessa half-Filipino. She has always been proud of her Filipino heritage and has been talking about it in various interviews. She even shared her desire to showcase her Filipino identity in an interview with Glamour UK in 2021.

“My mom is from the Philippines, and growing up, there weren’t many women who looked like me and my mom and my family onscreen. It’s important to share all the different stories because America is a massive melting pot, [just like the] world.”

While the 34-year-old Broadway beauty admits this was the first time she had the chance to visit the country, she made it worthwhile by visiting the crystal clear lagoons of El Nido, Palawan. Aside from her plans of visiting the beautiful beaches and historical landmarks in the country, she also would like to immerse herself in Filipino culture. She particularly wants to meet with local tribal communities.

Photo credits to PEP.ph

“I’m going to hang out with tribes, there’s so much to do,” she stated. “I haven’t even gone shopping!”

As she entered her mid-30s, her plans involved finding her roots and rediscovering herself, hence the trip to the Philippines. “I’m thinking about raising a family, and I wanna be able to know my heritage so that I can bring that forth and so that my kids can know their background, they can know more about their own blood.”

Meanwhile, Vanessa faced backlash on social media as many netizens deemed her unworthy of the title. Nevertheless, the actress opened up about how she struggled to find her place in Hollywood as a Fil-Am.

Even though the industry is slowly diversifying, there is still a lack of international representation, especially among the Filipino tribes. Thus, she looks forward to more opportunities to work and stay in the country to fulfill her goal of learning about the Philippines and discovering her Filipino identity.

“I already can’t wait to come back. I feel like the time that I have spent here has been so incredible and so special, but I need more time. The country is so big and has so much to offer,” she said.

 

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

 

Featured photo credits to GMA News

#VanessaHudgens #PHGlobalTourismAmbassador #Philippines #DOT #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Chad Borja’s second chance in life

A Holy Week story of hope, surrender, faith, love, overcoming sickness, and the gift of life.  “My life now is full of constant reflection and prayer. Everything in this world is temporary,” the singer and OPM icon said.

 

Acclaimed balladeer Chad Borja and one of the members of the popular male group, The OPM Hitmen looked back on his past life. For someone who had been through a difficult battle with the Big C a couple of years ago, he hopes that his story will inspire other cancer patients not to lose hope.

“God moves mysteriously. He has given me a second chance in life,” he shared in a previous interview. “He answered all my prayers.”

The OPM Hitmen: Renz Verano, Richard Reynoso, Rannie Raymundo, and Chad Borja. Image: bworldonline

Chad related that he found out he had thyroid cancer after his show with pop diva Kuh Ledesma in Los Angeles in August 1998.

“I was jogging one morning when I felt a block in my throat. I was so feverish at that time so I decided to consult a doctor. I had consulted four doctors from New York and LA, and they told me that I had an irritated sore throat,” he recalled.

When he returned to the Philippines, he went to Cebu, his native hometown to seek the advice of other doctors. He was told to take antibiotics.

“But I was bothered. I was fully convinced that there was something wrong with my system. I underwent an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), where I was put inside a machine as if it were a coffin for 45 minutes. I preferred not to take sleeping pills because I wanted to know what was happening. After a few hours, the doctors interpreted that I had a mass in my throat, so I needed to undergo a biopsy.

He continued: “Four days after the biopsy I was told that I had a cold nodule. My doctor friends from Cebu and Laoag told me that I needed to undergo surgery before it spread. My fears, doubts, confusion, and depression started to manifest. I decided to do some research and to get a good endocrinologist (in the name of Augusto Litongua) from Makati Medical Center,” he said.

Just to be sure, he underwent another test at the Philippine General Hospital. Still, the finding was malignant.

“The doctor told me that if I undergo surgery there’s a chance for me to get well,” he said.

But Chad had mixed feelings about undergoing the surgery because he was advised by a fortune-teller not to do it.

“In one of my guest appearances at GMA-7, I was predicted not to undergo an operation because something bad would happen to me,” he recalled. “Then I started praying. I went to Coney Reyes to seek advice and enlightenment. After that, I became stronger deep inside. I decided to go on with the operation. Imagine, I was crying for one hour and 30 minutes.”

Bad dream

On October 8, 1998, Chad underwent surgery at the Makati Medical Center.

“I didn’t feel anything. At that moment, I didn’t care if I lost my voice as long as I stayed alive to give me time to repent for my sins. But the torture was after the operation,” he shared. (Chad has now an artificial thyroid. The operation had left him a horizontal scar on his throat.)

During the first three months, Chad had to take radioactive iodine (a liquid medicine) as part of his treatment. He gained weight because of this medicine. Then he had to regularly monitor his blood to find out if the cancer had spread or not.

“Through this experience, I have learned to surrender my life to God,” he said.  “The good news is that my cancer didn’t spread. However, there’s no assurance about it.”

Chad felt fortunate despite everything. “This is my second life,” he intimated. “Now when I wake up every morning, I pray and thank God for giving me an extension in life.”

Slowly, he went back to his singing. But this time around, he has a new outlook. “My life now is full of constant reflections and prayers. Everything in this world is temporary,” said Chad, who’s now a renewed Christian.

Chad said, what happened to him was like a bad dream. “Because of this difficult situation, I’ve become more humble. If I have grudges with people, I just humbled myself. I don’t let anger consume me.”

One thing he has learned from this experience is to be satisfied with what you have and never allow material things to rule your life.

“If you have the chance to say ‘I love you,’ to your parents, and loved ones, say it now, because you will never know what will happen,” concluded Chad, who has become a better person inside and out.

(Based on the article published in the now-defunct Mirror Weekly Magazine by the same author)

#throwbackseries #profile #entertainment #chadborja #singer #performer #opmicon #preciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Featured photo courtesy of blacktiemanila.com

Ricky Lee: From Multi-Awarded Scriptwriter to National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts

As scriptwriter-director Bibeth Orteza said, “Ricky Lee is a remembrance of all that makes the idea of writing romantic: a lonely childhood, collegiate years without money to spend, a term in jail even. And then an enviable body of work.”

 Ricky Lee has spent a good chunk of his career writing scripts for films. Like his screen films, he assumes multiple forms and shadows, complexity, and simplicity in one sleek package.

Filipino film buffs have bought this package, making Ricky, one of the best and most multi-awarded scriptwriters in the Philippines today. Some of his finest Filipino films include Himala, Moral, Brutal, Salome, Madrasta, Curacha,  and Miguel/Michelle, among many others.

Aside from his many years of teaching at UP and the Ateneo, he has been conducting scriptwriting workshops, proof of his generosity in imparting career secrets to aspiring and upcoming writers.

Ricky is also a well-known fictionist, having won several literary awards. He has published an anthology of some of his works in 20 years in fiction, journalism, and film (Si Tatang at Mga Himala ng Ating Panahon.)

Revise, revise

Ricky recalls that his scripts of Brutal and Moral had five to seven drafts before he finally perfected them.

Talagang madugo, hindi bawat revision may nabago lang, talagang overhaul ng skeleton,” he shared during a past interview. “Kasi ‘yong first sequence ng Brutal walang makaintindi kundi si Marilou (Diaz-Abaya). So you have to be patient and concentrate para mag ugat ang mga paa mo. Kailangan mayroong matatag na foundation.”

In writing a script, Ricky follows not just his own judgment. “Natanggap ko na na magkakaroon ng sariling buhay yong script. Whatever will be good for the script doon ako susunod,” he said. “I’m willing to adjust to the popular taste of the audience. Dahil gusto kong ma-reach ang audience ko kaya ako nagsusulat.”

He culled most of his ideas from real-life experiences; some from his imagination. “The ideas in terms of the situation, characters, and images are mostly from outside influences and the environment. Then the inside which is the emotion.”

Length of time

In his early years as a scriptwriter, Ricky could finish a script in a month (the longer script took three months at the most). Now he can finish a script in one or two days.

For instance, the script of the movie Mapusok (starred by Rosanna Roces) was written for two days. As well as Malikot na Mundo (1997) and Sinner or Saint (1984). “I wrote Sinner or Saint on the airplane while going home from Brazil. Pagbaba ko ng airport, may script na ako,” shared Ricky.

The film Andrea by Superstar Nora Aunor was written in less than seven days. The longest material he wrote was Moral. “Hanggang nag shooting na nag-revise pa ako. Nagdidikta ako ng lines kay Marilou over the phone,” said Ricky, “because we wanted to find the best way of telling the story.”

Yet, it was the most fulfilling movie for Ricky.

Working with the best directors

His first year in the industry was a big advantage for Ricky because it was during this period that he got the chance to work with the local cinema’s best directors.

Nakatrabaho ko agad sina Ishmael Bernal, Mike De Leon, Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Mel Chionglo, Lino Brocka, para akong nag workshop ng todo,” he said.

When he was working with Marilou he learned a different technique. “Expand. Push. When you develop the characters huwag kang nakakahon. Let’s go unstructured. Most of my works with her are mostly on women, like the trilogy of Brutal, Moral, and Karnal. We clicked because she’s a woman. Hindi ko kailanman ma-approximate ‘yong mga alam niyang nuances, malinaw sa kanya ang pagkababae.”

With Ismael Bernal, he learned how to go “classical and structured.”

Meanwhile, Mike De Leon was very conscious of details.

Whereas, Lino Brocka was grounded in one kind of social and political philosophy. “Laging malinaw iyon kay Lino. That’s very reassuring kasi alam mo ang direction,” he said.

Working with dexterous directors (with different approaches) has stretched Ricky’s creative side to the most. From 1979 up to now, Ricky is full-time in the movies. There may be ups and downs in his career, but there will always be people around who will pull him back from leaving the industry.

Nowadays, half of his time is spent writing scripts; the other half he devotes to writing literature, journalism, and theatre. And of course, teaching.

“I will never stop teaching even if it’s difficult to teach because I’m always grounded with reality,” he explained. “Kung puro showbiz ako, lulutang ako, maaaburido ka, o mababaliw ka kasi ang daming humihila sa iyo sa iba’t ibang sides. Mawawalan ka ng perspective.

Working with the stars

Among the stars he has worked with, he particularly cherished the times when he became close with Nora Aunor. He first worked with Nora in Himala. But they became good friends while they were doing Andrea.

“Kasi trabahong kaibigan talaga ‘yon. We’re still friends up to now, but not as close as before,” he disclosed. Ricky related that he’s not close with celebrities. He keeps a distance from them as much as possible.

Turbulent childhood

Ricky’s turbulent childhood has taught him to face life’s challenges and to excel in one’s talent.  He endured many hardships in his struggle to become the country’s multi-awarded scriptwriter.

Courtesy: Mell T. Navarro FB

He typifies the rags-to-riches story. He was born into immigrant families originally from Fujian, China, and was raised in Daet, Bicol. He had a desolate childhood after his parents died when he was still young. He grew up under the care of a relative.

He excelled in school both in Daet and UP. His college days were something for the books. He experienced hunger and loneliness and was jailed for one year during Martial Law for his student activism.

He didn’t resent his past. Rather, he became selfless. He uses his life experiences, struggles, idealism, and intelligence to create over 70 screenplays that have stimulated many Filipino moviegoers. For those pieces of work, he earned more than 30 (and counting) trophies from all the award-giving bodies in the local movie industry.

Because of his upbringing, Ricky related that he became a very shy person. However, he got over his shyness when he entered show business. “I was extremely shy because my father was also extremely shy. We hardly talked. But he loved me. I was very sure of that,” he intimated.

Behind his reserved manner are his witty punchlines. “Defense ko ‘yon para hindi nila ako tingnan sa likod,” he said. “I’m very trusting, but deep inside I’m afraid to trust people. Kasi ilang beses na akong nauntog.”

As a child, he was wont to read almost everything.  “Ang feeling ko noon parang inaarmasan ko ang sarili ko. So I accumulated a lot of knowledge. Basa ako nang basa ng libro since I was seven years old.” But he always wanted to become a writer.

When he was in his fourth year of high school at Daet Chung Hua High School, he wanted to run away from home but there was no chance. He had no money.

“Then I read an ad from Free Press (Filipino) that they would accept the short story. Pinadala ko ‘yong story ko (entitled ‘Mayon’) and it was accepted. Every week, binabantayan kong lumabas ang story ko. Finally, when I saw my byline, na reaffirm ‘yong pag-alis ko sa Bicol. I was paid Php50 for my story. That was the happiest time for me as a writer. Then I came to Manila.”

Ricky said that he experienced the most personal growth during his Bicol and UP years. “Those were the happiest years of my life. And also the starvation years for me,” he said.

As scriptwriter-director Bibeth Orteza said, “Ricky Lee is a remembrance of all that makes the idea of writing romantic: a lonely childhood, collegiate years without money to spend, a term in jail even. And then an enviable body of work.”

By Ruby Asoy-Lebajo

(Based on the feature article published in the old Mirror Weekly magazine by the same author)

#RickyLee #scriptwriter #fictionist #teacher #upcloseandpersonal #exclusiveinterview #nationalartistforliterature #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Featured photo courtesy of Shandii Bacolod FB

Ace Gapuz on acing the social media game

Currently running an influencer marketing company called Blogapalooza, this millennial CEO, entrepreneur, and marketing and public relations specialist has seen it all. From blogs to vlogs, this social media mogul has gone through all the latest trends in the interwebs, witnessed the rise of the influencer, and figured out all the tips and tricks to marketing yourself.

Yet beyond the face value of her job, her goal to build a community and see the genuine person behind the screen shines through tenfold. “I hope there will be more creators. I hope that more voices could be heard. I hope that we will have more acknowledgment [towards creators].”

Started with a Blog

 Growing up, Ace Gapuz has always been the ‘madaldal’ one in the classroom. As told by her class advisors, she was always going off talking to her peers and saying whatever was on her mind, whichever seating arrangement she was placed in.

Moving from the IRL to the URL, her talking audience switched to behind the screen where she discovered blogging around the ages 11-12 years old back in the early 2000s. “It’s just innate in me to just talk. I have always been a storyteller. I guess that’s what brought me very naturally into blogging.”

“It was a novel concept back then. You write about your thoughts. Let people read them. It’s like a diary that you can have other people read. And the fact that people were hearing you, paying attention to what you have to say, and making you part of their lives, that was groundbreaking during that time,” Ace fondly reminisces.

Ace treated her blog like a personal diary, writing about her day-to-day life, interests, and opinions to a faceless audience. But, come 2009, she stopped because, in her words, “college happened.” “Blogging, for me back then, it was an honored pastime. It was something I did because I genuinely enjoyed. It wasn’t something I thought about as a career,” she muses.

So, at this time, she found herself taking up a bachelor’s degree in Management Engineering with a Minor in HR Management in the Ateneo at Manila University and, later on, an MBA. She felt that business was the more practical and pragmatic choice for the future. It was a versatile path that led to many outcomes.

That was until Ace took on a corporate job in a fashion and retail company and worked at it for two years. And very naturally, she found herself back into more creative and media pursuits as she was placed in PR and events. “I like the dynamic nature of PR and events. You get to meet people. And I got to meet the bloggers I used to just know over the internet.”

Maintaining contact and connecting her way through the industry, she didn’t see any other path than to start Blogapalooza.

Ended with a Blogapalooza 

Being a young CEO, Ace Gapuz didn’t let her age get in the way of pursuing her goals. She was determined to see things through.

From being a storyteller herself to letting other people share their stories, it all ties back to Ace’s roots with personal blogging to now, Blogapalooza. Through the years, the premier influencer marketing company has built a community of thousands of bloggers, social media influencers, and content creators all over the Philippine archipelago and nearby Southeast Asian countries.

“When I started building the Blogapalooza community of creators, I went to different parts of the Philippines and the world, for that matter. I wanted to hear them, to feel them. I think when you talk about building a community, it’s important to get to know what drives these people, what’s at their core, and what would make them happy. And that’s where you come in to provide the value.”

The greatest lesson she’s learned in the process? Be genuine, always. “If you’re genuine about service if you’re genuine about providing value, and if you genuinely care for them, they’re also going to feel that, and they’re going to give you that same energy.”

 

#AceGapuz #Blogapalooza #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

A 70-year reign: Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy

As the world mourns Queen Elizabeth II’s death, it cannot be ignored that people felt like they’ve lost a mother, a leader whom they can all look up to. Her reign was eventful as it was legendary– and one could only hope that the next leader would be as astounding and dedicated as she was.

 

One of the longest reigns in the history of the British Monarch has come to an end. Queen Elizabeth II, an icon and a ruler, died on September 8, 2022, at the Balmoral Castle in Scotland. Her leadership style and dedication to her role have become a constant reminder of the monarch’s stability and power, and in her death, her legacy still resonates. 

Queen Elizabeth II had an eventful and record-breaking reign in a contemporary monarchy. She assumed the throne when she was 25, after her father’s death in 1952. Her reign, spanning 70 years, has witnessed quite a several historical and groundbreaking events, most of which changed the course of humanity. She has seen the downfall of the British Empire, the birth of the internet and the smartphone, and took part in welcoming new norms and trends throughout her life. With all these experiences combined, Queen Elizabeth II played the long game. 

Her impeccable influence 

Through the years, Queen Elizabeth II has become a beacon of stability– not only for her subjects but for the whole world. Despite the chaotic slew of events that coincided with her reign, she was one of the vital reasons as to why the monarchy survived and continues to hold power and influence to this day. 

In leading the British empire, and later on the Commonwealth, Queen Elizabeth II has consistently been an enigma– in a way that her decisions are calculated and precise, yet almost nobody truly knows what is going on inside her mind. Her reign has also been full of scandals and exposes, most of which tarnished the image of the Royal Family. However, despite everything that happened, her influence as the Queen remained and the monarchy regained its reputation every time. 

Her staunch beliefs, though reminiscent of the old colonial past of Britain, also evolved as the world’s perspective changed. Radical shifts and new norms were welcomed as the Royal Family embraced the modern era. Queen Elizabeth II has a favorability rating of 75 percent, which played a huge role in how the monarchy continues to be relevant in the current times.  

Her unique leadership style 

Queen Elizabeth II wasn’t born into immense pressure– she was far in the line of succession back when her uncle, Edward, was the heir to the throne. When he abdicated in favor of her father, King George VI, she immediately became the heir to the throne. Her discipline and utmost dedication to her work were highlighted, and they helped in accomplishing her steadfast vision for the monarchy.

Elizabeth II portrait. Photo credits to Getty Images

She worked incredibly hard at her job. Queen Elizabeth II wasn’t the type to stay stagnant as a leader, she would always have engagements, both local and foreign, to expand relations and oversee operations throughout the entire Commonwealth. In turn, all the countries under the Commonwealth look up to her as an unchanging leader, whom they follow and admire. 

One may view Queen Elizabeth II’s leadership style as apolitical and neutral, which she is constantly known for (and sometimes praised for) at times. The people of the Commonwealth valued her neutrality and deemed it vital for their countries’ stability. Despite the current political climate, the Commonwealth remained powerful and significant. 

As the world mourns Queen Elizabeth II’s death, it cannot be ignored that people felt like they’ve lost a mother, a leader whom they can all look up to. Her reign was eventful as it was legendary– and one could only hope that the next leader would be as astounding and dedicated as she was. As people look forward to the new reign, it cannot be denied that Queen Elizabeth II did an adequate job in shaping the present– and who knows, with her long-standing legacy, maybe even the future. 

 

Contributed by Princess Friel Lontoc

Photo credits to Getty Images

 

#QueenElizabethII #death #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Municipal Vice-Mayor of Lian, Batangas, Ronin Leviste sets his vision of building a ‘tomorrow together’

“No act is too small to make your country better,” said Leviste during a valedictory speech to his fellow graduates, encouraging them to make a positive impact.

 

“Being Batangueño is the best thing ever,” began Ronin Leviste, the uber-passionate and ultra-proud yet humble recently elected 23-year-old Municipal Vice-Mayor of Lian, Batangas. “We have the most beautiful province in the entire country — beyond the instagrammable mountains and world-class beaches, it is our people [my fellow Batangueños] and their stories who can showcase all the best my province has to offer. We’re already so near [Manila], but we still have a lot more infrastructure coming in soon, surely putting us in a sweet spot for rapid development.”

Following in his father’s footsteps

Politics was never an alien concept to Ronin. His father is Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste, whose flourishing career began over two decades ago. As soon as he could walk, Ronin was already accompanying his father to constituent consultations, sessions, and the campaign trails. Seeing his father work closely with communities inspired the young man to follow in his footsteps.

As a student at Xavier, Ronin developed outreach programs growing up and played a role in the social action arm of the school. He recalls a great memory when he started a movement of the solar light building with his barkada in the school’s science lab and then installed them in underprivileged dim communities in Batangas and Mindanao.

While in college at De La Salle University, Leviste received two of the highest honors, the Br. Gabriel Connon Award and the Gawad Francisco Ortigas Jr. Most Outstanding Undergraduate Student Leader Award. In his final year at school, he served as Vice President for External Affairs of the University Student Government. To top it all off, he graduated Magna Cum Laude in Development Studies with the Best Undergraduate Thesis Award.

Creating a positive impact

During the university’s 192nd Commencement Exercise, Leviste gave a rousing valedictory speech to his fellow graduates, encouraging them to make a positive impact. “Everyone here has a different timeline, everyone here has a unique story, but the commonality that binds us is that we all have talents, opportunities, and skills worth sharing when put together, with almost no limit to what the world can expect from us. More importantly, we all have an equal role to play in the development of the Philippines that we call our home. So when our country needs us, we, as Lasallian leaders, must always respond with unconditional service to the nation because to build the nation is to love.” It was Leviste’s wake-up call to his peers: that no act is too small to make your country better.

Education as his advocacy

Ronin soon began building his political career, serving as Sangguniang Kabataan Kagawad in Makati and as the Youth Affairs Head of the office of the Vice Governor. He then ran as Municipal Vice-Mayor of Lian, Batangas, as an independent candidate.

“Education can uplift people from poverty and give them an extra sense of fulfillment,” says Leviste.

While he is one of the youngest vice mayors in the country, Ronin never takes it for granted. Apart from what he learned from his father and other mentors, he humbly credits his success to his education — learning loads from school and the people around him. The Batangueño says that education is one of his main advocacies as Vice-Mayor. “Education can uplift people from poverty and give them an extra sense of fulfillment. I learned so much from it, but it also taught me that there is still so much more to learn, so much more to do, so much more to serve,” he muses.

“Everything starts with a vision,” he says. “And mine begins by building a Tomorrow Together. For me, this means we leave absolutely no one behind. I want the Philippines where everyone can wake up in the morning knowing they have food on their tables, that they have jobs sufficient to provide for their family, and that their kids go to school and now have the means to do so. All of this will help uplift families to a better future — giving everyone equal opportunities in life. It is a daunting task ahead, but our generation has shown that if anyone can lead this change — it’s us.”

 

#RoninLeviste #vicemayor #LianBatangas #Philippines #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

The Logic in Logistics: Beverly Arcangel of Prozone Xpress Logistics   

PXL has established a network coverage of 150 cities in 75 countries across six continents. It is now one of the country’s top logistics superstars.

 

It is 4 in the morning and Beverly Anne Arcangel is already getting out of bed. These early hours are precious for the Managing Director of Prozone Xpress Logistics INC. (PXL) because it won’t be long before her phone starts ringing off the hook. Though the majority of PXL’s clients are from China and Intra-Asia, Europe and the United States are also at par so she needs to be awake when they are.

The 43-year-old begins her routine with a session/flow of Jin Shin Jyutsu (JSJ), a traditional Japanese practice that helps harmonize one’s energy by holding different parts of the body. Beverly puts herself in a state of peace and relaxation. After that, she makes her way towards the fairway, yoga, or Pilates studio, but manages time to reply to every e-mail in her inbox.  By the time the sun is shining bright, she already managed to put on her #GirlBoss hat even before she arrives at the office.

“I wear different hats in the office, “ she says while explaining her daily routine. Being in the logistics industry means new and unexpected situations happen daily. As Managing Director (without a General Manager), it is up to Beverly to be on top of everything – making sure her team is running like a well-oiled machine. While Prozone Xpress Logistics Inc. is a relatively new company, Beverly and her team have quickly elevated it to become one of the country’s top logistics superstars. They handle diverse industries from the shipment of luxury furniture and lifestyle items to medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, appliances, construction materials, retail, trading, and essentials (IT, telecommunication, water, agriculture, etc). PXL has established a network coverage of 150 cities in 75 countries across six continents.

Power team

Prozone Xpress Logistics Inc. maneuvered during the pandemic by being quick and agile. She also credits her partner, her co-Managing Director at PXL along with her colleagues whose hard work, commitment, and passion for logistics made them the ideal power team. Taking pride in their unique customer service approach which makes them different from competitors, “I always say, I don’t just give a quotation to the customer, I ensure to give them a solutions-focused and client-first approach that require precision, timing, foresight, and flexibility. I listen to their requirements then I customize our services depending on their needs,“ she explains. “I always tell my team, that it is all about personalized service.”

“I always tell my team, that it is all about personalized service,” says Arcangel.

While many companies were minimizing manpower during the pandemic, Beverly did the exact opposite. She made sure that PXL’s clients always had somebody to talk to directly about their concerns. Her way of doing business helped foster strong relationships with her clients, who ultimately trusted the company with all their logistical needs.

The business of logistics

The business of logistics is high stakes and nerve-racking. One small mistake could cost millions. “If you miss information like the correct chargeable weight or correct volume in a cubic meter of a shipment, then everything changes. And a mistake translates to a monetary loss in dollars, not in pesos. This is the reason why it is called LOGISTICS – because this work requires LOGIC.”

Remembering her journey was an emotional process for the successful businesswoman. Throughout the interview, she held back genuine tears. Beverly was somebody else’s employee for a good 19 years, and now she is calling the shots. Yet, her success has not gone to her head. She remains humble, knowing that her quiet strength can be harnessed into gold. “Last June 2022, one of the Philippines’ leading shipping lines called a meeting with me. Announcing that Prozone Xpress Logistics Inc. was noticed as one of the top 10 importers/producers for their line. I was so proud to be in a roster of the big logistics players in the country.” As we ended the interview, I realized that life can indeed begin at 40. All you need is a little strength, a lot of prayers, and a lot of logic.

 

#BeverlyArcangel #ProzoneXpressLogistics #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Constructing a Legacy: Alvin, Aimee and Alrich Lam

The Lam siblings remember their childhood as a busy one. “During the holidays, our friends would leave town, and we’d be working. Truth be told, back then, there was resentment. Why did we have to work?” recalled Aimee. What the trio didn’t realize was that they were part of a family legacy. Their parents are Joey and Herminia Lam, the husband-wife power duo who founded Fighter Lock Philippines Corporation (FLPC) in 1986, one of the country’s leading distributors of hardware, construction, and electrical materials. While their peers were enjoying the simple joys of childhood, Alvin, Aimee, and Alrich were training to take on the keys of the family kingdom.

The journey wasn’t easy. Unlike other COOs (Children of Owner), their parents strongly believed that their children needed to start from the bottom. As early as grade school, the siblings were asked to man the stores, make deliveries, and learn the behind-the-scenes nature of their homegrown company. Alvin, the firstborn, was the first to find his footing within FLPC. “He was a bit of a wild child,” Aimee shared with a laugh. As a way to deal with his rowdiness, Alvin was sent to China to learn Mandarin. It wasn’t long before he was homesick. The eldest son begged his parents to let him come back to the Philippines, promising that he would finally shape up. He kept his word and soon began running the business’ daily operations.

Aimee had a similar journey. She went to Canada to study, as a way of escaping the dullness of a daily routine. Although she was looking to do something entirely different, she realized her heart belonged back at home. “They told us time and time again, that this was our bread and butter. They frequently told us their rags to riches story. I felt that it was such a waste to throw this opportunity away if we didn’t continue it.” She moved back home, ultimately taking her place as the company’s head of finance.

Their youngest sibling, Alrich, also felt a sense of resentment as a child because he was asked to work early on. Growing up around his older siblings (Aimee is 4 years older, while Alvin is 10) and seeing them contribute to the company’s success, he came on board after college, handling the FLPC’s marketing department. “I realized, all the experiences we had mattered because they helped us become who we are today,” Alrich says.

Another important lesson instilled into them by their parents is that they are all equal. While many traditional Chinese families believe that the eldest should be the most respected, the Lams reject that dogma. Because of this, they can challenge each other’s perspectives, which have been an instrument in the company’s continuous growth.

As a trio, Alvin, Aimee, and Alrich have been able to bring FLPC into the modern age. The three put their minds together to build a professional image, as well as streamline operations, that propelled the company from a small family business to a thriving corporation. Under their watch, FLPC has expanded from being more than a distributor, but also a creator of their own brands: LAMCO (plumbing needs), Aimee (locks and keys), and Kantt (LED lighting).

Although their success was born from resentment, the Lam siblings are certain that they are where they’re supposed to be. “We can do anything when we’re together,” Aimee shared. As they continue to construct their empire, the Lams have embraced their destiny with open minds and a smile.

#Lamsiblings #FLPC #lamco #Kantt #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Congresswoman ‘Migs’ Nograles: The girl with a very little rest

“Whatever I do in life, I always look at the consequences of my actions. Regardless of being a representative, a teacher, a lawyer, or anything, I always want to be a ripple of change, shares Atty. Nograles. 

 

“People are always telling me that I’m the girl with no rest,” said Atty. Margarita Ignacia “Migs” Nograles with a cheeky grin. Earlier that day, she took her House of Representatives Oath, officially making her a representative of the PBA Party-list in Congress on July 1. Between her oath-taking, Nograles was a busy bee. She began the morning with her usual fitness ritual (meditation and a daily run), before answering e-mails, attending meetings, managing associates at her law firm, and doing her duties as a public servant.

It doesn’t stop there. Nograles finished shooting a new episode of Paano ba Attorney?, a TV program where she gives free legal advice to anyone who needs it. On the weekends, she works as a law professor, preparing her students for The Bar through review classes. Atty. Migs is also continuing her Master’s Degree in law, after taking a few short courses at Harvard Kennedy School and passing her Arbitration Accreditation courses. Could she be bionic? Probably not—but she’s certainly a Superwoman.

The Lady Boss

As a #LadyBoss who wears many hats, it’s very impressive to learn that Atty. Migs is only 31 years old. “[I love my job] because I get to help people,” she says with an ardent smile.

Her Davao-based firm NICAD (Nograles, Ilagan, Cayco, Aban, and Dabi Law) is committed to helping the general public find solutions in a cost-efficient and a highly-sustainable way. She and her partners participate in a lot of Pro bono work and free legal advice. “The practice of law is really to use your knowledge to help your client’s concern. We just had our anniversary on the first. We’ve already been operating for a year, and we’re still surviving. Even with free legal advice, we’re managing to stay afloat.” The firm is already looking to expand with an office in Manila sometime this year.

The Pro bono cases the firm accepts vary on different issues that each partner is passionate about. Atty. Migs, in particular, has a strong stance against domestic abuse, emotional abuse, and all forms of bullying. Not just for women and children, but men and the LGBTQI community, as well. “While growing up, I was a victim of bullying,” she says. “When I got older, I realized that a lot of friends had also been victims of violence. It is something very dear to me, and something I want to protect now.” While she was in office, Nograles had to take a small step back. She had to take a leave from the firm but still makes an effort to oversee her associates daily.

Paano ba Attorney?

Although she can’t physically appear in courtrooms at the moment, Nograles continues to use her skills through different avenues. For instance, in her show Paano ba Attorney? offers free legal advice to their viewers. Originally conceived as a short Facebook Live show during the pandemic, it has grown in popularity. The fourth season (which is currently in production) will be broadcasted on local television.

Nograles shares that their team receives 300 to 400 videos/messages a day from people seeking out her expertise. “It keeps me on my toes,” she shares. “It keeps me updated with the newest laws, and makes me feel fulfilled being able to answer questions on the spot. Also, [it’s great] to be able to help people with [nothing in return] but a simple thank you.”

It runs in the blood

You can say that public service runs through Atty. Migs’ blood. Her father is late Speaker Prospero C. Nograles, and her brothers, Karlo and Jericho, both hold positions in government. Watching them do their work (particularly their role in giving free education to thousands of youths), inspired her to be in politics.

Just a few months shy of her 32nd birthday, she will be entering the House of Representatives as a newly minted congresswoman, under the PBA Partylist. Even without having officially begun, the passionate attorney is already working on bills she is eager to pass. “What I plan to submit as a bill is the Domestic Abuse Law Bill. I’m working on it already. Another one is the expansion of the Solo Parents Act. In the law, solo parents don’t have additional support for education, which they need,” she states with assured vigor.

Supporting youths and athletes

As a former athlete, Nograles also wants to ensure that homegrown talents are given proper funding. She is advocating for sports legislation, sports protection, and grass-root support for local athletes.

Through the Party List, she hopes that she can establish standard and retirement benefits for emerging sportspersons. Her family’s work through the Nograles Scholars Program (which supported youths and athletes) truly inspired the young woman to help emerging Filipino talents.

She remembers boxer Nesthly Petecio (an Olympic Silver medalist) as one of the athletes they helped through the program. “Just look at her now,” she says with a proud smile. “Athletes should focus on training and shouldn’t worry about [the resources to do it]. Small issues like this are what I want to push in terms of legislation.”

Flourishing career

While Migs Nograles is just beginning her career as a congresswoman, she has already done so much to help those around her. Her desire to build a better Philippines reflects on her already flourishing career. It’s exciting to be in the audience and see the climb of this political superstar. “When I was a part of the Ateneo Student Leaders Assembly, they taught us to be a ripple of change,” she remembers. “Whatever I do in life, I always look at the consequences of my actions. Regardless of being a representative, a teacher, a lawyer, or anything, I always want to be a ripple of change.”

With such passion in her voice, it’s easy to believe her. However, to reach real “change,” one is afforded very little rest. Luckily for us, Nograles never does.

 

#MigsNograles #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Better than Best: Friends turned business partners

Referred to as ‘CHOSE,’ Chari and Rose have successfully launched some of the country’s most innovative and fastest-growing retail brands in the pandemic.

 

COVID-19 paved the way for a new normal. Streets were quiet, malls closed, with people afraid of leaving their homes prompting the boom in online shopping. The indoors provided solace and its interface are digital. This was the formula that kickstarted Rose and Chari’s ventures.

“The pandemic was the great equalizer. It gave new opportunities to those whose eyes are constantly seeking,” said the company’s leading Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rose Tolentino. While many slowed down, the duo went the opposite direction and launched not just one but multiple brands from personal and men’s care to food.

“2020 was the year. We felt the consumerist landscape was changing so to adapt was imperative for survival,” said Rose. “We were fueled to see the opportunity lying ahead so we did our best, and have been continuing to do so. We felt it would be an injustice to God not to do well. That was our motivation and push,” said Chari.

 

 

OMO! White

OMO! White, the company’s first successful brand scaled when it closed a partnership with the country’s biggest household cosmetic company, Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc (EBCI). What once was a Korean-inspired product line is now manufactured in Korea. “The best of Korean technology with the Filipino skin in mind,” Creative Chief Officer (CCO) Chari Trinidad-Mendoza, says. OMO! White is now in nearly 2,000 doors nationwide in all leading beauty & department stores.

Building a team that runs 100% online, the duo found the system worked to the advantage of their millennial team. No longer bound by the regular ‘8-5’ office demands meant clockwork capacity for their members’ optimum hours. “You know creativity can spring at 3 A.M. I guess you can call it ‘structured flow,’ says Rose.

Oh Crop! Is an Adlai brand to serve the ballooning health-conscious consumer market. It is an alternative to the Filipino staple white rice, packed with nutrients, low in glycemic index (GI), and high in fiber. Partnering with celebrity restaurateur Marvin Agustin, the company has hectares of personally-owned and contracted land whilst pioneering the first Adlai-financing system with UBX and multiple LGUs to further encourage sustainable livelihood for their partner farmers. The brand is currently available at The Marketplace under the Robinsons Retail Group.

Rosie Posie

Halal-certified with a core philosophy of  ‘beauty is kindness,’ Rosie Posie is a 4-step skincare kit made specifically for Filipino women in Visayas and Mindanao. it is a brand promoting gentle and natural ingredients that aims to take care of you, while you take care of the Earth.  The brand is available in Rose Pharmacy in Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod.

Alike

Aside from their products in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) category, the ladies own the media company Alike Media. Similar to OMO! White Alike was founded before the pandemic but its pivotal year was 2020. An originally digital media company, expanded into an omni-channel that now has both digital and print. They were ranked as part of the top 10 digital media companies in the country.

 

 

Best friends since they were 10 the two are now in their 30s. Two decades of friendship have evolved and formed them, but never separated. The pandemic taught them simplicity, grit, but above all – what truly is ‘essential.’

Respect. Trust. Dreams. Love.

 

#ChariTrinidadMendoza #RoseTolentino #friends #businesspartners #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph