by rossanahead | Nov 10, 2017 | business, Business Tips, career, environment, Existing Business, family
For us working Filipina mothers, blogs aren’t just a great form of entertainment but also a convenient method of learning. From mommy blogs, family blogs, style blogs, design blogs, cooking blogs, and all the other various genres of blogs that are out there, there is so much helpful, possibly life-changing knowledge made available to us online. Dive into this compilation of summaries and need-to-know information on a few delightful blogs!
Momma ‘n Manila
Mommanmanila.com
Who runs the blog?
Mish Aventajado, a “Filipina American mom of four lovely beings, one of which has an extra chromosome. Living in Manila. Yogini. Teacher. New Yorker at heart.” as she describes herself on her Twitter account.
What can you expect to read about?
“Thoughts on yoga, cooking, crafting, raising a special child, exploring, eating, playing, and living in Manila.”
Follow the blog if:
You want broad knowledge on a spectrum of topics. From special needs awareness to relationship advice to parenting hacks to exercise tips to food recipies to travel ideas to many, many more. This blog is filled to the brim with wisdom on a whole bunch of subjects that you will find relevant. Not only will it educate you with so much of what you need to know, but it also delivers enjoyable and entertaining insights as well.
The author on her blog:
“Through this blog, I hope to document the journey of finding myself through motherhood, learning through my children, my students, and my adventures here in Manila.”
Must-read article: 5 Things Your Kids Should See In Your Marriage (http://www.mommanmanila.com/5-things-kids-see-marriage/)
The Misty Mom
Themistymom.com
Who runs the blog?
Sharina Macainag, a “beauty junkie preposterously attracted to makeup and skincare”.
What can you expect to read?
Articles of tutorials, item unboxings, and features on topics such as beauty, makeup, skincare, hair, style, fashion, and motherhood. She also writes a monthly series of blogs on her favorite products, both beauty and non-beauty alike.
Follow the blog if:
You want to up your style game or stay up-to-date with the latest fashion, makeup, and hair styles. This blog is yet more proof that having children doesn’t mean you can’t keep up with your own style. It’ll inspire you to put together a great #OOTD, try out a new haircut, get the best products for your face and skin, and commit to many more aesthetic-related upgrades. Your kids will be amazed! Who says moms can’t have great style?
Must-read article: How Sleep and Skincare Worked Wonders for My Skin (http://www.themistymom.com/2017/06/how-sleep-and-skincare-worked-wonders-kojie-san-dream-white.html)
Mommy Peach
Mommypeach.com
Who runs the blog?
Peachy V. Adarne, “a mom to two daughters, wife to a loving husband, foodie by heart, a coffee lover and a froyo and yogurt junkie, and a law enforcer by profession”.
What can you expect to read about?
“Parenting and life as a mom and as a wife”
The author on her blog:
“This is where I also blog about our family’s travel, beauty finds, and OOTD’s — basically products, brands, or services which I have personally used or encountered.”
Bonus blog: The Peach Kitchen (thepeachkitchen.com) Peachy’s foodie blog!
Follow the blog if:
You’re interested in anything food-related. Whether you often wear an apron or not, this blog has a little bit of everything for everyone. There’s a ton of delicious dish recipes and handy kitchen advice for those who like to cook, but there are also new and exciting restaurant and product features, helpful diet tips, health hacks, and more. Take your pick, you’ll definitely find something that’ll pique your interest!
Chasing Dreams
Chasingdreams.net
Who runs the blog?
Rhiza Sanchez-Oyos, a “wife, mom, blogger, and dream chaser” who is a “self-taught Web Designer and Front-end Developer too”.
What can you expect from the blog?
Energizing articles focused on stories about her “family, marriage, life, dreams, and faith”.
Follow the blog if:
You want to be creatively stimulated. If your mind is ready and willing to be filled up with inspiration of all sorts. Whether to broaden your imagination so you can start up a new project, or to strengthen your motivation so you can continue striving on what you’re working on now. This blog will light a fire in your head, causing your creativity to intensify.
The author on her blog:
“I hope somewhere in the pages of this site you find the inspiration you need to pursue your calling too.”
Must-read article: How to Balance Your Family, Career, and Creative Passions (http://www.chasingdreams.net/2017/03/how-to-balance-your-family-career-and-creative-passions/)
So, there you have it! Of course there is still a multitude of other wonderful blogs out there, but this is just a hand-picked variety of some of the ones suited for working Filipina mothers like us. As you can tell, following these blogs are an enjoyable and convenient way of discovering new tricks in the kitchen, fresh outfit and makeup styles, up-to-date tips on motherhood and so much more. When you find some time—maybe when the kids are at school or you have a few free minutes at work—go check them out. After all, it would be a waste to miss out on what these powerful women and their inspiring blogs have to offer!
Featured Photo by Emma Matthews on Unsplash
by rossanahead | Apr 5, 2017 | Business Tips, Startup Guide
Startup enablement programs to help speed up growth and learning for Philippine startups and entrepreneurs have been launched by QBO Innovation Hub.
“We are excited to create success stories that will inspire Filipinos to start their own companies instead of pursuing opportunities overseas,” said QBO and IdeaSpace president Butch Meily.
QBO is an established partnership between the public and private sector including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), IdeaSpace Foundation, and J.P. Morgan.
It will start offering programs and services to startups including access to QBO’s networking events such as classes, workshops, mentorship, feedback sessions, and use of its co-working space.
Available services include professional consultations on legal and accounting matters; marketing and design; corporate and government partner resources referrals; assistance on incorporation, business registration, and intellectual property filing; and investors and potential partners pitching.
“DTI hopes that with our partners from industry, academe, and other government agencies such as DOST and DICT, our initiatives will help advance the development of our local startup ecosystem and increase the number of high-growth oriented enterprises that will bring the Philippine brand in a global scale,” said DTI Trade and Investments Promotions Group Undersecretary Nora K. Terrado.
Through QBO, startups will also have an opportunity to join J.P. Morgan’s Incubation Program, a stage agnostic module (involving the review of company business plans) that will be available to select and high-potential startups all year round. It initially plans to enroll 15 startups by the end of 2017.
“As one of the world’s leading financial institutions, J.P. Morgan celebrates new ideas and we are committed to supporting entrepreneurs in the country, especially those with underserved backgrounds,” said Roberto L. Panlilio, Senior Country Officer, J.P. Morgan Philippines.
“Engaging with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) at their early stages is critical and we are excited about the tremendous opportunities they will bring to developing sectors and generating jobs, which are both vital in promoting prosperous and thriving communities,” he added.
To avail of these services, startups need to have an initial interview with the QBO team and undergo initial assessment. Through this, a customized plan will be designed to match with the resources needed by the startup.
QBO was launched in 2016 with DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez and PLDT Group chair Manny V. Pangilinan. It aims to link innovators, explorers, investors, academic institutions, startup mentors, funders, and enablers as well as a broad spectrum of partners and stakeholders from both public and private sectors to convene in constructive interaction.
“The Philippine startup ecosystem is growing incredibly quickly, fueled by a young population engaged in the internet and digital, and more importantly, by entrepreneurs that demonstrate incredible determination and commitment,” said DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara.
“By continuing to develop ideas into innovative products and technologies, startups can evolve to become great companies that positively impact the future of the Philippines,” she continued.
QBO is the first innovation hub in the country, pioneering the first public-private effort to establish an innovation ecosystem in the Philippines following the success stories of Silicon Valley in the U.S., Singapore’s startup hub BLK 71, and the Malaysian Global Innovation and Creativity Centre in Malaysia.
by rossanahead | Mar 30, 2017 | business, Business Tips, career
Today, we are recognizing the latest batch of Filipina entrepreneurs who have shown great examples to the next generation. Many of you would ask, why are we doing this? Why are we recognizing women entrepreneurs? We are honoring them because aside from taking care of their families, they still have time to pursue their dreams and lead enterprises. (Image courtesy of Go Negosyo)
Read more at Go Negosyo.
by rossanahead | Mar 30, 2017 | Business Tips, Education, family, health and wellness
In the wake of the celebration of World Consumer Rights Day on March 15, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) once again reminds consumers of the importance of asserting and fulfilling their rights to overcome unfair trade practices and avoid exploitation.
“Everyone is a consumer and, as such, each of you would want to be treated safely, fairly, and honestly in every transaction you make,” says DTI in a statement issued March 28.
“To guide you, here are eight (8) basic consumer rights you are entitled to. Knowing them empowers and protects you against market abuses and social injustices.”
1. The right to basic needs. This is your right to have access to basic and essential goods and services, such as adequate food, clothing, shelter, health care, education, public utilities, water, and sanitation. This right also reminds you to prioritize your needs over luxuries or unnecessary wants and focus on the quality of goods and services, rather than the brand, high price, and quantity.
2. The right to safety. This is your right to be protected against the marketing of goods or provision of services that are hazardous to your health and life. You can read first the label of a certain product to see its precautions, warning signs, expiration date, and PS (Philippine Standard) or ICC (Import Commodity Clearance) marks. If needed, you can also ask for a professional consultant to learn more about a product.
3. The right to information. This is your right to be given the facts you need to make informed choices and be protected against dishonest or misleading advertising and labelling. Before purchasing a product, you can read its label carefully to know its use, content, number of pieces, proper handling, and manufacturer. Also, before signing waivers, warranties, or service contracts, it helps that you understand all the provisions written in them.
4. The right to choose. This is your right to select from a range of goods and services at competitive prices with an assurance of satisfactory quality. You can always canvass for prices of similar or wide array of goods and services offered in the market before purchasing.
5. The right to representation. This is your right to express your interests as a consumer in the making and execution of government policies. You can attend public hearings or meetings regarding consumer issues to be aware of how consumer laws and regulations are being implemented in your area.
6. The right to redress. This is your right to be compensated for misrepresentation, shoddy goods, or unsatisfactory services. In case you have bought a defective product, you can return to the store, look for Consumer Welfare Desk, and request a replacement, refund, or repair of the product.
7. The right to consumer education. This is your right to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to be an informed consumer. You can read newspapers, magazines, and other materials that may educate you on how to get the best value for your money. You can also participate in seminars, conferences, and fora regarding consumer products, new concepts, and developments, which are conducted by government agencies, consumer groups, and business or industry sector.
8. The right to a healthy environment. This is your right to live and work in an environment that is neither threatening nor dangerous but rather permits a life of dignity and well-being. The government then must play its role in enforcing environmental and sanitation laws on factories, stores, and shops; while you need to reduce, reuse, and recycle the waste from your consumption.
For more information on consumer rights, send an e-mail to cpg@dti.gov.ph. To report a complaint on products and services, call DTI Direct 751-3330 or send a text message to (0917) 834-3330.
Photo: Wayne S. Grazio,Featured Photo from Philippine Retailers Association
by rossanahead | Mar 28, 2017 | business, Business Tips, Existing Business
The Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) has suspended the Certificates of Registration of at least 84 credit and lending companies pursuant to SEC Resolution No. 174, dated March 7, 2017.
It may be recalled that the SEC has undertaken severe measures against the proliferation of “informal lenders,” or persons who engage in lending without primary registration (of incorporation) and secondary license (to extend loans to the public) from the SEC.
Under the Lending Company Regulation Act of 2007, or Republic Act No. 9474, it is illegal to act as a lending company or lending investor unless the entity registers as a corporation and secures a license to operate as one from the SEC.
The public is enjoined to get in touch with the SEC for any information concerning persons and entities engaged in illegal lending. You may call the Corporate Governance and Finance Department at (02) 818-5476 or 818-5516, or make an online report through the i-Message Mo on the Commission’s website.
For the complete list of entities with suspended registration, click here.
Featured Photo from My Office
by rossanahead | Mar 27, 2017 | Business Tips, Existing Business, Startup Guide
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has launched its first Go Lokal! store in Robinsons mall and plans to open a similar outlet in SM.
On March 24, DTI opened in Robinsons Place Manila its initial Go Lokal! store, a public-private collaboration between the agency and local retailer partners.
Go Lokal! is a design-based concept store and market platform showcasing modern and indigenous quality products crafted, designed, and created by Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The market platform is set to revolutionize the way hard-to-find and artisanal Filipino products are sold in the local market by bringing together a specially curated lineup that includes food products, apparel, accessories, home décor, gadgets, and gift items.
Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said that aside from providing market access for MSME products, Go Lokal! is a venue for new entrepreneurs to test the marketability of their products without fear of losing on rental and commercial costs because their Go Lokal! experience is free of charge.
“DTI is excited to open its first mainstream Go Lokal! store with Robinsons Department Store as its dynamic partner in this effort of maximizing market access and providing exposure to our MSMEs,” said Lopez. “We look forward to opening more outlets in their malls and department stores across the country.”
“Ultimately, it’s all about accessibility and opportunity for MSMEs, both of which you need to be successful in retail. Go Lokal! is one way for DTI and Robinsons Department Store to give assurance to these business owners that they have support from both the government and the private sector so they may profit from ventures that they are passionate about,” Robinsons Department Store president and COO Robina Gokongwei-Pe said.
Go Lokal! outlet at SM Makati
Also on March 24, DTI signed an agreement with Kultura, the country’s largest retailer of homegrown products, to open a Go Lokal! store in SM Makati.
Kultura’s Go Lokal! store opens in April at the second level of SM Makati and will run throughout the year.
“Kultura and Go Lokal! are complementary avenues to help our local MSMEs gain retail foothold in the Philippine domestic market. We are pleased to open a Go Lokal! together with Kultura as a testament of our collective thrust of inclusive growth and development of our MSMEs,” said Lopez.
“Kultura has become a showcase of local artistry and craftsmanship and furthers its advocacy by partnering with the DTI for its Go Lokal Project, providing a venue for the distribution and promotion of products sourced from MSMEs,” said Ivy Frances Yap, Kultura’s senior vice president for operations.
Featured Photo from Philippine Retailers Association
