Intergenerational Empowerment for Our Indigenous Entrepreneurs, Stories from Philippines and Indonesia

Intergenerational Empowerment for Our Indigenous Entrepreneurs, Stories from Philippines and Indonesia

Sunday, February 9, 2025

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are considered to have an important role in driving the economy of countries in Southeast Asia. According to data from the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), there are currently more than 70 million MSMEs in Southeast Asia employing more than 140 million people and representing 99 percent of all businesses in the region. However, Southeast Asia continues to face challenges in building a sustainable MSME ecosystem, particularly in helping small businesses navigate an evolving landscape.

In the Philippines, efforts to empower MSMEs that preserve traditional crafts are gaining momentum in Iloilo, a region renowned for its hand-loom weaving. Once a thriving industry in the late 18th century, it struggled due to a decline in skilled artisans. To sustain the craft, the Iloilo Provincial Government, through the Provincial Culture, Arts, History, and Tourism Office, has initiated programs like the Indigenous Fiber Fashion Fair. This event has since evolved into a partnership with ISAT-University’s Fashion Design and Merchandising program, offering a platform for emerging designers.

In 2024, six designers—John Patrick Tajo, Jeraldine Nofre, Donato Peniero, Wendy Tanaleon, Kim Ivan Delgra, and Jerico Labata—showcased modern interpretations of Ilonggo craftsmanship. Using locally hand-woven fabrics created by artisan weavers, their work highlights the power of intergenerational collaboration in sustaining traditional industries, supporting livelihoods, and strengthening the local economy.

Intergenerational empowerment to boost local businesses

In Indonesia, intergenerational empowerment also exists to support local entrepreneurs. The Siak Sustainable Creative Center (Skelas) through its incubation program, Siak Sustainable Business Incubation (Kubisa), offers innovative and sustainable solutions in the Siak area, Riau, which is known to have great local economic potential, one of which is by building intergenerational collaboration.

Since its inception in 2023, the Kubisa program has involved young people from Skelas to support the development of MSMEs. The program trains business owners, who are often their seniors, on how to create designs with Canva, implement digital marketing strategies, and create product innovations that meet market needs. Kubisa also ensures that each product is tested in the laboratory to ensure its quality before being marketed.

One of those innovations is the sustainability aspect of the product. Skelas and Kubisa emphasize using locally grown products and working with local farmers to ensure that the products have a low environmental impact and empower the participants and the surrounding communities in Siak.

Enthusiasm for this program continues to increase. In 2024, the number of registrants has almost tripled, from 23 to 62 people. After going through the selection, 20 participants, consisting of 17 culinary entrepreneurs and 3 from the fashion sector, were selected. Six young participants were actively involved in this training, playing a major role in helping other participants understand the material more effectively.

"I feel helped by participating in the Kubisa program, through this program I not only get practical solutions to produce my creations but also assistance in marketing and packaging the products," said Santi Lestari, owner of Dapur Mempura, one of the MSMEs that created the gluten-free Bolu Kemojo pre-mix flour and Kubisa participant of 2023.

Most of the participants have now used digital platforms to market their products, assisted by promotional materials they developed during the training. By combining the expertise of the younger generation in technology and the experience of the senior generation in management and business networks, MSMEs are able to overcome challenges such as digital transformation, market adaptation, and resource management.

Capacity and capital enhancement for business actors

In addition to increasing the capacity of business actors, Skelas also connects them with investors and governments at the local and regional level to support business development. One form of this collaboration is the implementation of Demo Day and business matching for MSME actors, especially in the fashion and culinary sectors.

Skelas also collaborates with the national charity platform, to provide funding of IDR 60 million to 12 selected Kubisa participants. This funding is used for training and developing their businesses, as well as several production tools that have been ordered. The selection process emphasizes participants who have incomes below IDR 5 million. With support from various government institutions and investors, the Kubisa program increasingly provides great opportunities for MSMEs to develop and reach a larger scale.

“We are optimistic that the collaborations that have happened in Siak, either intergeneration or between the public and private sector, can become a catalyst for a broader restorative economy activity in the regions. By growing businesses that are based on local wisdom, we can be assured that we are making an impact not only in the economy but also in the environment sectors,” said Cerli Febri, from Skelas

About SKELAS

The Siak Sustainable Creative Center (Skelas) is a place and a forum for creative young people to pour out ideas to explore the superior potential of Siak Regency while maintaining the sustainability of its nature. Currently, Skelas has mentored 26 businesses from various sectors, such as three from fashion, 22 culinary businesses, and one education service, and continues to support the vision of green Siak in achieving the target of 1000 MSMEs/year and increasing creative economic efforts, which are the Regional Development Performance Indicators plan of the Siak Regency Government.

For more information, please visit https://skelas.org/

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Schneider Electric has contributed to restoring Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

Schneider Electric has contributed to restoring Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

Schneider Electric contributed, by means of donations, to the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The donated solutions have made it possible to secure and monitor the site's electrical facilities.

The fire that severely damaged the cathedral on April 15, 2019, sparked an incredible wave of solidarity that Schneider Electric wanted to be a part of. "It's an obvious move for Schneider Electric to support actions of this type for symbolic and prestigious sites, as we have done in the past for the Comédie Française state theater and the Antarctic station," highlights Gilles Vermot Desroches, Director of Citizenship, and Institutional Affairs at Schneider Electric.

Innovations for the Future

Schneider Electric provided expertise, products, and solutions thanks to a donation agreement. As such, the Group supplied all the equipment required to supply power to the site and for its security (20 kV HV cells, a 20 kV/410V 1250 kVA transformer, general and divisional electrical switchboards, inverters, safety lighting, devices etc.), as well as the tools for the technical management of the building, making it possible to monitor the functioning of the network and control its power consumption (automatic control systems, sensors, controllers, communication buses etc.).

In addition to the equipment, Schneider Electric is carrying out some of the maintenance of the electrical distribution equipment, providing some of the engineering, studies, commissioning, and programming of the installed systems, as well as the training of future users.

The old electrical installation was inoperable due to the fire and without electricity, reopening was impossible. The new network ensures the distribution and security of the energy supply, incorporating innovative solutions and cutting-edge technologies that optimize the management of its electricity consumption and help ensure the safety of the cathedral.

A Shared Commitment

The project team had to deal with a large number of technical issues demanding ingenuity and preparation.

One such issue was the delivery and installation in early 2024 of the connected TRIHAL transformer, a key element of the cathedral's power supply. Delivered by truck and then raised onto the site above the construction area, this 3.2-ton block was then lowered via a hoist into position in the basement of the presbytery. A specific study had to be carried out for the lifting operation.

Installing the high-voltage substation in an underground vaulted cellar with considerable access and space constraints was also an issue resolved with customized equipment and support.

"This is a project for which the logistics have been quite tricky and required excellent coordination with the other players on site," said Cédric Larcher, Regional Manager of the Electrical Distribution Application Center at Schneider Electric France, responsible for management, performance, and monitoring on site.

In addition to providing infrastructure, around 60 Schneider Electric employees (from factory workers to the site’s network designers) contributed knowledge and expertise as part of a skills transfer program. Schneider Electric’s support also included training partner companies such as the panel builder Ateliers Electriques de France (based in Val-de-Marne) to install the main low-voltage cabinet, FBS Electricité (based in Seine-Maritime) to install the high-voltage substation, ERM (based in Eure) to create specific support structures and Transport Avex (based in Val-de-Marne) to carry out the extremely tricky handling operations in the basement of the presbytery.

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Visa and Valentine's Day: Analyzing Consumer Spend Trends

Visa and Valentine's Day: Analyzing Consumer Spend Trends

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, has released new insights into consumer behavior during February 2024. Visa Consulting & Analytics found that more active cards were used for transactions, indicating a change in how Filipinos are celebrating Valentine's Day.

The data shows an overall increase in transactions for February 2024 compared to February 2023, driven by more active card users. Despite the rise in transactions, the average amount spent per transaction slightly declined. This suggests that inflation and higher commodity prices may have led consumers to be more cautious with their spending this Valentine's month.

Unlike Valentine's Day 2023, which saw a peak in transactions on the day itself, the peak in 2024 occurred on the weekends before and after Valentine's Day. This change points to evolving consumer preferences. The report also highlights changes in spending patterns. Spending on food-related categories decreased, while spending on travel-related categories saw a slight rise. There was a significant increase in spending on local transport services. Spending on gifts, such as books, shoes, sporting goods, and jewelry, saw significant growth. Spending on flowers decreased slightly, indicating a preference for more durable gifts. Spending on health and beauty spas remained steady.

Consumers Are Spending Smarter: Likely to Prioritize Value and Affordability this Valentine’s

Visa’s latest Green Shoots Radar Survey reveals that many Filipinos are adopting a more budget-conscious approach this year. Instead of splurging on luxury items, they are focusing on experiences that create lasting memories. Across the Asia-Pacific region, many consumers are cutting back on non-essential spending, channeling their budgets into special moments with loved ones.

Shifting Towards Sentimentality: The Growing Demand for Personalized and Meaningful Gestures

With excessive spending taking a backseat, personalized and meaningful gestures are becoming more popular. Custom gifts, handmade creations, and intimate dinners are the go-to choices this season, reflecting deeper emotional connections. According to the survey, arts and crafts purchases are on the rise, with more Filipinos shopping in this category compared to last year. These creative purchases, whether it’s a hand-painted card or a DIY gift, show the effort put into expressing love authentically.

Managing Budgets with Rewards and Discounts for Celebrations

How are Filipinos making it all work on a budget? By leveraging rewards and discounts. Visa’s survey shows that many Filipinos are tapping into promotional deals through their credit cards. By taking advantage of cashback, loyalty points, and exclusive discounts, they’re able to treat their special someone to a memorable Valentine’s experience without the financial strain.

"With Visa, couples can unlock added value with every purchase, from thoughtful gifts to special meals, making it easier to celebrate love while staying within their budget. It’s all about offering more ways to make the most of your budget, so you can focus on creating memorable moments with those you love,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager, Visa Philippines.

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Mang Inasal Shines at the 60th Anvil Awards with Three Major Wins

Mang Inasal Shines at the 60th Anvil Awards with Three Major Wins

Mang Inasal, the Philippines’ Grill Expert, continues to set the bar high in innovative and consumer-focused public relations, earning two Gold and one Silver at the prestigious 60th Anvil Awards. Held at the iconic Fiesta Pavilion of the Manila Hotel, the event recognized the brand’s excellence in impactful marketing and PR campaigns.

A Triumph Against Hundreds of Competitors

Competing against over 586 entries, Mang Inasal emerged as a standout in 2024, bringing home top honors for three of its most engaging campaigns:

• Gold for Pork BBQ Media Launch (PR Programs – Marketing and Brand Communication)

• Gold for #MangInasalKahitSaan Digital and PR Campaign (PR Programs - Best Use of Digital)

• Silver for "Love the Flavors, Love the Philippines" (PR Programs – Arts & Culture/Heritage/Tourism)

“These Anvil awards are more than just recognitions; they’re a testament to our dedication to connecting with our customers in meaningful ways,” said Mang Inasal President Mike V. Castro. “This honor tells us that our efforts, whether in-store or online, truly resonate with our customers. It drives us to keep improving, listen to their needs, and find new ways to serve them better. This is a shared victory with our customers — they inspire everything we do.”

Award-Winning PR Campaigns That Captivated Audiences

1. Pork BBQ Media Launch: A Star-Powered Sensation

Mang Inasal’s Pork BBQ Media Launch clinched Gold for its stellar execution in marketing and brand communication. The mid-2024 event created massive buzz with a high-energy, celebrity-driven launch that positioned the brand’s Pork BBQ as a must-try for Filipino food lovers, especially younger audiences who crave new and exciting flavors.

2. #MangInasalKahitSaan Digital and PR Campaign: Digital Excellence

Winning Gold for Best Use of Digital, this campaign turned an innovative idea into an online sensation. Featuring giant order numbers with QR codes linked to manginasaldelivery.com.ph, it redefined digital engagement. With the help of influencers, media buzz, and organic social media conversations, Mang Inasal amplified excitement around its delivery service, proving that creative digital strategies can drive real-world impact.

3. "Love the Flavors, Love the Philippines": A Culinary Celebration

Securing a Silver in the Arts & Culture/Heritage/Tourism category, this campaign showcased Filipino flavors on a grand scale. In collaboration with the Philippine Department of Tourism, it highlighted the richness of local cuisine, elevating Mang Inasal as not just a brand but a cultural ambassador for the Philippines’ vibrant culinary heritage.

A Legacy of Excellence in Public Relations

Following its stellar performance at the 59th Anvil Awards—where it won four Golds and one Silver—Mang Inasal’s continued success reinforces its commitment to PR excellence and brand innovation.

The Anvil Awards, often dubbed the ‘Oscars of Public Relations’ in the Philippines, are presented annually by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP). Each year, the awards recognize outstanding PR campaigns and business communication initiatives from leading brands, agencies, and institutions. With rigorous judging by esteemed local and international experts, winning an Anvil signifies industry leadership and creative excellence.

Stay Updated on Mang Inasal’s Latest Innovations

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives? Visit manginasal.ph for the latest news and  order your favorites at manginasaldelivery.com.ph.

Mang Inasal’s latest Anvil victories prove that beyond serving delicious grilled favorites, the brand is also a leader in consumer engagement, digital innovation, and cultural celebration. Cheers to more milestones ahead!

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Palo Alto Networks Prepares Organizations for Quantum Security with QRNG Open API

Palo Alto Networks Prepares Organizations for Quantum Security with QRNG Open API

Monday, February 3, 2025

Consortium of innovators paves the way to make a quantum secure future accessible to all

Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), the global cybersecurity leader, has announced the release of a Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) Open API framework, empowering organizations to prepare for future quantum security threats. The framework, developed in partnership with six innovators across the QRNG field, addresses the need for multi-vendor interoperability across the industry and enables organizations to invest in and build QRNG-based systems that are resilient regardless of the underlying technology or company.

Rich Campagna, SVP Product Management, Palo Alto Networks:

"Helping the world become quantum safe is much more than any one cybersecurity company, government agency or critical infrastructure organization can tackle alone. Collaboration in the QRNG field is vital to future-proofing against quantum computing threats and we are committed to our work with standards bodies, global governments and our partners to help steer the industry toward standardization. We are thrilled to launch the QRNG Open API to benefit as many organizations as possible."

The future convergence of AI, ML, deep learning and classical supercomputing with quantum computing necessitates securing today's systems against quantum-enabled attacks. QRNG is a technology that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to generate truly random numbers, which are essential for creating secure cryptographic keys. Experts recommend the use of recently released NIST post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards in combination with QRNG to give organizations the best chance to protect against future threats. The QRNG Open API framework eliminates barriers to QRNG adoption, helping global organizations access the highest quality cryptographic operations possible as they prepare for quantum computing technology.

Available through the Palo Alto Networks GitHub portal, the QRNG Open API can be embedded into any application. Later this year, Palo Alto Networks Next Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) will support the QRNG Open API, enabling the network security platform to bring in entropy for cryptographic functions.

Developed by Palo Alto Networks and leading QRNG technology partners, Anametric, ID Quantique, Qrypt, Quantinuum, Quantropi and Quside, the QRNG Open API will:

• Simplify QRNG integration by removing proprietary silos.

• Maximize interoperability in multi-vendor networks and promote freedom of choice, allowing customers to select the best technologies and systems for their needs, including both cloud-based and on-prem solutions.

• Accelerate QRNG adoption by removing barriers with a collaborative, open approach.

• Provide a common mechanism for obtaining high-quality entropy from an external QRNG platform.

QRNG Open API initiative partners commented:

Fernando de la Iglesia, VP of Product, Quside:

"As a leader in quantum technology, Quside is committed to advancing the adoption of quantum randomness in cybersecurity and high-performance computing. Our key objective is to make quantum randomness more accessible by reducing adoption barriers. The QRNG Open API initiative is crucial for establishing clear and robust guidelines that meet precise user needs."

Kenny Huebsch, Director of Software Engineering, Qrypt:

"The biggest hurdle in helping organizations adopt quantum entropy isn't convincing them of its value - it's how complex it is to integrate into their systems..Driving toward a standard is an essential first step on a path to broader first-class support of quantum entropy sources." 

Wil Oxford, CEO, Anametric:

"Anametric is pleased to join the efforts of the QRNG Open API initiative. Establishing a standardized QRNG Open API is crucial for the cybersecurity landscape, facilitating the seamless transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC). Our collective expertise and collaboration will ensure that our digital infrastructure remains resilient, secure, and future-ready, safeguarding data in an increasingly quantum-enabled world."

Duncan Jones, Head of Cybersecurity, Quantinuum:

"Participating in the QRNG Open API initiative enables us to work alongside other industry leaders to address a critical aspect of quantum safety that's often overlooked - the quality of randomness used in cryptographic operations. By developing a common standard for access, we're helping organizations strengthen their cybersecurity today while ensuring they maintain flexibility for the future."

Mike Redding, CTO, Quantropi:

"We believe that open standards are essential to give clients the confidence to adopt new technologies. Quantropi was honored to contribute our expertise to the QRNG Open API initiative to help make the Open API a reality. The Open API will allow clients to focus on the quality, reliability, security, and value of QRNG service offerings without the complication of evaluating implementation differences."

Grégoire Ribordy, CEO, IDQuantique:

"ID Quantique (IDQ) commercializes quantum hardware and software systems compliant with the relevant applicable standards, ensuring smooth integration with existing security framework, infrastructures, and applications. Ultimately Quantum Entropy combined with existing security solutions improves the security of end-user data and organization infrastructure today and in the future. We were delighted to support Palo Alto Networks initiative to provide a QRNG Open API to customers."

About Palo Alto Networks

Palo Alto Networks is the global cybersecurity leader, committed to making each day safer than the one before with industry-leading, AI-powered solutions in network security, cloud security and security operations. Powered by Precision AI, our technologies deliver precise threat detection and swift response, minimizing false positives and enhancing security effectiveness. Our platformization approach integrates diverse security solutions into a unified, scalable platform, streamlining management and providing operational efficiencies with comprehensive protection. From defending network perimeters to safeguarding cloud environments and ensuring rapid incident response, Palo Alto Networks empowers businesses to achieve Zero Trust security and confidently embrace digital transformation in an ever-evolving threat landscape. This unwavering commitment to security and innovation makes us the cybersecurity partner of choice.

At Palo Alto Networks, we're committed to bringing together the very best people in service of our mission, so we're also proud to be the cybersecurity workplace of choice, recognized among Newsweek's Most Loved Workplaces (2021-2024), with a score of 100 on the Disability Equality Index (2024, 2023, 2022), and HRC Best Places for LGBTQ+ Equality (2022). For more information, visit www.paloaltonetworks.com.

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Rise Against Hunger Philippines Celebrates A Decade of Leading the Fight Against Hunger

Rise Against Hunger Philippines Celebrates A Decade of Leading the Fight Against Hunger

Sunday, February 2, 2025

Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP) recently celebrated a decade of transformative impact in the fight against hunger, bringing together over 100 partners, donors, and supporters at a special event in Makati City. The milestone event highlighted the strong dedication of RAHP to ending hunger and finding lasting solutions for communities in need across the country.

Since its founding in 2015, RAHP has remained at the forefront of addressing hunger across the Philippines. Through the dedicated efforts of its partners and supporters, RAHP has: 

• Delivered millions of meals to food-insecure communities.
• Provided critical emergency relief to disaster-affected areas.
• Empowered communities to build sustainable food security solutions.

As part of the milestone celebration, RAHP announced the launch of the Pabaon Project, an online fundraising initiative to improve nutrition for students in remote primary schools in Ifugao. This initiative reflects RAHP’s continued commitment to addressing the root causes of hunger by enhancing access to nutritious meals, which are important for academic success and community development.

“We are proud to launch the Pabaon Project as part of our broader mission to end hunger, particularly in areas with the highest levels of food insecurity. This initiative will help ensure that no child goes hungry, enabling them to thrive in school and their communities,” said Jomar Fleras, Executive Director of Rise Against Hunger Philippines.

Looking Ahead

As the organization enters its second decade, RAHP is focused on expanding its impact, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to lead the fight against hunger in the Philippines. The organization’s decade-long leadership, expertise, and commitment have solidified its role as a key force in the movement to end hunger.

To amplify its efforts, RAHP has invited actor and humanitarian Piolo Pascual to serve as its campaign ambassador. Through his platform, Pascual aims to inspire more Filipinos to take part in the movement towards a hunger-free Philippines.

“Our work is far from over, and with the continued support of our partners and the Filipino people, we are confident that we can make a lasting impact in the fight against hunger. Together, we can build a future where no child goes to bed hungry, and every community thrives,” Fleras added.

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Marking 70 Years of Excellence: PMA’s 43rd Agora Awards Honors Stellar Marketing Pioneers

Marking 70 Years of Excellence: PMA’s 43rd Agora Awards Honors Stellar Marketing Pioneers

The Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) rolled the carpet for the 43rd Agora Awards Gala at the Manila Ballroom, Manila Marriott Hotel, celebrating the pinnacle of marketing excellence, honoring outstanding individuals and organizations who have significantly shaped the industry landscape. 

Honoring this year’s celebration, the 43rd Agora Awards Gala brought a special meaning as it coincided with PMA’s 70th anniversary, encapsulated by the theme: “AGORA S.M.I.L.E. – Stellar Marketing Innovators: Legacy of Excellence.”

With the leadership of Director-in-Charge and Overall Chairperson Alpha Gracias C. Allanigui, the 43rd Agora Awards has become a landmark event over the years, and now, it has expanded its recognition to include groundbreaking new categories to celebrate innovative strategies and transformative contributions that push boundaries and set new standards of excellence.

"We are blessed to have not only notable luminaries but also outstanding enterprises in our Agora roster," said Allanigui. "These awardees are making waves and consistently raising their game through their legacy of excellence."

The 43rd Agora Awards introduced new categories to reflect the ever-changing marketing landscape, emphasizing the importance of addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities within the industry. These new categories include Outstanding Achievement in Social Enterprise, which recognizes marketing initiatives that empower communities and drive social change; Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability Marketing, highlighting campaigns that promote environmental responsibility and sustainable practices; and Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Campaign, celebrating groundbreaking strategies and innovative approaches that deliver exceptional results. These additions underscore the awards’ commitment to acknowledging marketers who not only excel in their craft but also contribute meaningfully to society and the planet.

Among the highlights was the Agora Special Trailblazer Award, which honors individuals or companies with triumphs in three distinct Agora categories, showcasing sustained innovation and excellence. This year’s recipient, Century Pacific Food, Inc., exemplified this through its unparalleled achievements, including Agora Company of the Year (2011), Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Management (2014), and Outstanding Achievement in Export Marketing (2018).

Another notable category, the Agora Distinction Award for Nation-Building, celebrates individuals who have elevated the nation’s status through exemplary contributions in their respective fields. This honor was bestowed upon Mansmith and Fielders, Inc., under the leadership of Josiah and Chiqui Go, for their transformative impact on marketing education. Their commitment to fostering a culture of learning, mentorship, and sharing best practices has cemented their role as a cornerstone of marketing innovation and nation-building.

Other winners who embody ingenuity and excellence in their fields included Global Dominion Financing, Inc., SPD Inc., and Avocadoria for Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship across large, medium, and small-scale business categories, respectively. ACEN and Jos Ortega were recognized for their achievements in marketing communication, while Unmeat shone in export marketing. UST and individual educators Enrique Caeg and Dr. Antonio Etrata were celebrated for their contributions to marketing education. The evening also highlighted Rags2Riches’ excellence in social enterprise, Agridom’s sustainability marketing efforts, and Knowledge Channel’s advocacy marketing initiatives. GCash received accolades for its standout marketing campaign, while Greg Banzon and Robert Hechanova were honored for their achievements in marketing management and overseas marketing, respectively.

Significantly, Century Pacific Food’s UnMEAT brand and Greg Banzon each received their second recognition in Export Marketing and Marketing Management, respectively. These distinguished achievements place them on the path to Hall of Fame induction, contingent upon securing another win within the next five years.

COMPLETE LIST OF AWARDEES

Agora Special Trailblazer Award: Century Pacific Food, Inc.

SET 1: Marketing Education and Advocacy

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Education: University of Sto. Tomas

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Education – Collegiate: Dr. Antonio E. Etrata – UST

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Education – Higher Education/Professional: Enrique Pablo O. Caeg, CPM Asia

Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability Marketing: Agridom Solutions Corporation

Outstanding Achievement in Advocacy Marketing: Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc.

Outstanding Achievement in Social Enterprise: Rags2Riches

SET 2: MarCom & Entrepreneurship

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Communications – Individual: Joselito B. Ortega

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Communications – Company/Enterprise: ACEN RES / Tony Valdez

Outstanding Achievement in Export Marketing: UnMEAT

Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship – Small Scale: Czarina J. Sevilla, Avocadoria.ph

Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship – Medium Scale: Sarah P. Deloraya-Matero, SPD Jobs, Inc.

Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship – Large Scale: Patricia P. Palacios, Global Dominion Financing, Inc.

SET 3: Marketing Management

Outstanding Achievement in Overseas Marketing: Roberto Hechanova

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Management: Gregory Francis H. Banzon, Century Pacific Food, Inc.

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Campaign: GCash

Agora Distinction Award for Nation-Building Marketing Leadership: Mansmith & Fielders

PMA made the conscious decision not to award a Marketing Company of the Year this year, upholding its commitment to maintaining integrity and ensuring a rigorous, fair judging process.

JUDGING PROCESS

The Agora Awards follows a meticulous and transparent process to ensure that only the most deserving candidates are recognized. Nominations are carefully screened for eligibility, and nominees are informed of their status and submission requirements. Throughout the process, confidentiality is strictly upheld, with all committee members signing agreements to protect sensitive information.

Entries are assessed by category heads and validated via thorough verification, which includes interviews and due diligence. Judges are then selected based on their expertise, forming three panels that evaluate categories aligned with their areas of practice. To maintain objectivity, judges receive documents for review days before deliberations. During the deliberation process, only judges and the official tabulator, SGV, are present, ensuring fairness and impartiality. Winners are announced only after SGV verifies the results.

Chairperson Allanigui expressed her gratitude to the judges, category heads, committees, and supporters who worked tirelessly to bring the event to life. She also shared her personal reflection on leading the Agora Awards: “The Agora Awards is my way of giving back to the marketing and business community. It is a labor of love, a journey of learning and patience, and a constant reminder of Filipino ingenuity. The stories of our nominees and awardees are inspiring testaments to innovation and integrity. For me, the Agora is more than an event—it is a beacon of hope that highlights the brighter side of our nation’s future.”

She concluded by lauding all the awardees, adding, “Their stories remind us that the best marketing comes from the heart, driven by purpose and a desire to uplift and inspire. Congratulations to all the awardees for being true beacons of excellence. May your work continue to inspire businesses to thrive while helping build a brighter future for all.”

To learn more about the PMA’s Agora Awards and see how you can be part of their annual prestigious event, you may visit the Facebook page of the Philippine Marketing Association or https://philippinemarketing.org/agora-awards/

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