Beyond the famous Chocolate Hills, the small town of Carmen in Bohol thrives on its agriculture. This sector is the livelihood for most locals, and Elsa, a 50-year-old CARD client and an experienced agripreneur, supports agriculture. She believes that the agricultural industry nourishes society, from creating jobs to feeding the families.

Elsa is a mother of five children who chose family business over formal education. Their shared dedication has kept their business resilient. From confronting natural disasters to fierce market competition, their journey has been filled with trials. Yet, with optimism and passion, they have weathered every storm.

Beyond cultivating the fields, Elsa’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish a sari-sari store following the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. Their family also ran a canteen near the elementary school for about three decades.

Gratitude fills Elsa when she speaks of CARD, Inc., (A Microfinance NGO). “I became a CARD client in 2009 not just for loans, but because of the insurance it offers. With CARD by our side, we always have a safety net in times of emergencies, especially for business needs,” Elsa said. Indeed, CARD’s support has enabled Elsa to further expand her business, ensuring steady growth even in uncertain times.

Today, Elsa’s businesses are thriving, with seasonal crops like watermelons and various vegetables augmenting their regular produce. “A single watermelon harvest of 1,000 kilograms can bring in over PHP30,000 during peak seasons,” she said. Meanwhile, their local vegetables such as string bean, eggplant, and Chinese cabbage, are harvested quarterly and sold at retail prices ranging from PHP20 to PHP100 per kilogram.

The mentioned  agricultural products were widely distributed in the market with their partner traders, wholesalers, and retail store owners around Carmen, Bohol.

With the success of the business, they now have a more comfortable home and bought a small truck, primarily used for product delivery or distribution. Their growth is not just personal. The success has enabled Elsa to provide jobs, which contributes to the growth of Carmen’s local economy.

“For those who want to venture into business, you must be steadfast, passionate, and optimistic because the road is tough, but it’s worthwhile,” she concluded. Elsa intends to develop their business in the coming years by purchasing more farms to diversify their agriproduct offerings.

Building your own business may be challenging but it allows you to realize your dreams and aspirations in life.

Melanie Paña, a 44-year-old microentrepreneur from Quezon Province, took the challenge and reaped the rewards of her hard work. Embracing the entrepreneurial spirit passed down by her parents, she and her siblings grew up nurtured by business insights and lessons.

“As we grow older, our parents taught us how to do business and the processes that we need to know. Knowing we would eventually navigate our family’s rice retailing business, they ensured we were prepared to sustain our business,” Melanie shared.

Though she was unable to complete her formal education in marketing, Melanie combined her academic insights with her parents’ teachings, making her competent at handling the family’s rice retail business.

Her initial attempt into business was not rice retailing but a computer shop. Adapting to the challenges of the pandemic, she transformed it into a general store.

Just like many others, Melanie encounters a lot of setbacks in running the business, such as a lack of business capital and supplies.

From capital shortages to supply chain disruptions, she faced them head-on. “To jumpstart our rice retailing, I needed a strong financial service provider,” she shared.

In 2017, Melanie became a client of CARD Bank. As the Philippines’ first microfinance-oriented rural bank, it empowers socially and economically challenged families with a wide range of financial products and services. For Melanie, CARD Bank was not just a bank but a constant ally.

“As our business continues to progress, CARD Bank stood by me by providing the solid financial foundation I needed to nurture both my family and business,” she said. For Melanie, to achieve entrepreneurial success, it is pivotal to have a blend of passion, perseverance, and an unyielding drive to thrive.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Naalarma ang Philippine Mental Health Association, Inc. (PMHA) nitong Lunes dahil sa “namumuong epidemya ng krisis sa mental health” sa bansa. Ayon sa grupong binubuo ng mga mental health professional at advocate, kinakailangan na ng malawakang atensyon, suporta, at aksyon para matugunan ito.

“Napansin namin ang labis na pagtaas sa mga kaso patungkol sa mental health noong kasagsagan at pagkatapos ng mga lockdown dulot ng COVID-19 pandemic,” sabi ni PMHA President Dr. Cornelio Banaag, Jr. na itinuturing ding ama ng child psychiatry sa Pilipinas, sa isang World Mental Health Day activity na ginanap sa Cagayan de Oro City. “Bata o matanda, may kaya o wala, apektado ng lusog-isip o mental health ang lahat ng Pilipino. Isa rin itong silent epidemic na dapat nating sugpuin,” dagdag niya.

Sa Pilipinas, maituturing nang karaniwang disability ang mental illness o sakit sa pag-iisip at mahigit 3.6 milyong Pilipino ang may hinaharap na mental, neurological, at substance abuse disorder, ayon sa Department of Health (DoH).

Ayon pa sa PMHA, limitado pa rin ang kakayahang makakuha ng mga mental health services dahil sa kakulangan sa resources at ‘stigma’ o diskriminasyong nararanasan ng mga apektadong tao. Kulang pa sa isang mental health worker ang mayroon sa bawat 100,000 Pilipino, ayon sa grupo.

Nanawagan din ng “whole-of-society approach” o buong lipunang pagtugon sa usapin ng mental health. “Isang karapatang pantao ang lusog-isip,” sabi ni Banaag. “Kailangan nating ipaabot sa mas maraming karaniwang Pilipino ang tamang pagsusuri, paggamot, at pag-aalaga,” aniya.

Para sa grupo, dapat ipatupad nang mas maigi ang Philippine Mental Health Law o Republic Act No. 11036, magpasa ng mga lokal na ordinansa sa mga bayan at lungsod, at dagdagan ang pondo para palawigin ang serbisyo at kamalayan tungkol sa mental health.

“Kinakailangang magkaisa ang lahat ng sektor ng lipunan para tugunan ang krisis sa mental health – pamahalaang nasyonal at lokal, pribadong sektor at lugar ng trabaho, mga healthcare provider, mga komunidad, paaralan, at indibidwal,” sabi ni Banaag.

“May ambag ang bawat isa para tiyaking nasa maayos na kalagayan ang lusog-isip ng mga Pilipino,” dagdag din niya.

Taylor Swift supremacy continues at SM Supermalls this October as SM Bulacan malls ride on the waves with a series of events dedicated to Swifties across all ages.

SM City Marilao will transform the mall atrium into a concert ground with The Eras Party on October 15. Take a trip down memory lane with listening party inspired by ‘Eras Tour’. There are fun photo snaps to capture memories, while merchandise displays featuring Taylor Swift and Eras Tour collectibles will also be available during the event. Tag your fellow Swifties and register now via the SM Malls Online App at https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/ERASPARTYSMMARILAO.

It’s double-the-thrill as SM City Baliwag throws Swifties Night Out on October 22. Get ready to swoon into live performances inspired by Taylor’s greatest hits throughout the years, while fun games and prizes also await the best-dressed winners. Admission is free! For pre-registration announcements, stay tuned to SM City Baliwag’s official Facebook page.

The fun never stops as SM Cinema Marilao and SM Cinema Baliwag bring the iconic ‘The Eras Tour’ to the big screen starting on October 13. Buy your tickets now via the website at https://bit.ly/TSTheErasTourFilmAtSMCinema, the SM Cinema app, or SM Cinema ticket booths.

Over 100 bus drivers from Luzon and Metro Manila were given free eye care services by NLEX Corporation under its “See Clearly, Drive Safely” eye care program.

NLEX partnered with Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Cardinal Medical Charities Foundation Inc., and Executive Optical to provide free consultation, visual accuracy examination, refraction test, and eye disease screening to member-drivers from the Nagkakaisang Samahan ng Nangagasiwa ng Panlalawigang Bus sa Pilipinas Inc (NSNPBPI).

The “See Clearly, Drive Safely” program aims to promote safe driving in NLEX, SCTEX and NLEX Connector by instilling the importance of good eyesight to drivers when on the road.

“The program shows our commitment in making roads safe for everyone because good eyesight is critical to safe driving. By fostering good eye care, we will be able to protect the lives of the drivers and motorists as better vision guarantees safer travel,” NLEX Corporation president J. Luigi Bautista said.

Bautista explained that clear vision is essential for driving.  If the drivers’ vision is unreliable, they cannot judge distance, identify road hazards, read traffic signs, and spot trouble while on the road, which may potentially increase the risk of accidents and endanger people’s lives.

In addition to free eye consultation, the NSNPBPI bus drivers were also provided free eye drops, reading and prescription glasses during the two-day event.  Meanwhile, drivers who need to undergo cataract surgery may avail for treatment and operation for free by the volunteer doctors of Cardinal Santos Medical Center.

NSNPBPI executive director Alex Yague extended the group’s appreciation for the program.  “Nagpapasalamat ako sa NLEX at Cardinal Santos Medical Center sa isinagawa nilang eye care clinic na makakatulong sa ating mga driver. Sana po ay continuous ang pagkakaroon ng ganitong programa.”

Yague acknowledged the importance of promoting good eyesight and encouraged other members to participate in the program for their safety and that of other motorists.

Started in 2017, the program has served more than 750 transport drivers from the Provincial Bus Operators Association of the Philippines (PBOAP), NSNPBPI, and NLEX-SCTEX host communities.

For years, NLEX has been at the forefront of advocating road safety as a shared responsibility between the company and its various stakeholders. Aside from continuously building and enhancing its roads infrastructures and safety features, the tollway company is also committed in promoting safe and responsible driving through various road safety awareness seminar for transport organizations, host communities, and the general public.  These include the Kaligtasan sa Daan (KalSaDa) and Usapang Driver programs.

NLEX Corporation is a subsidiary of the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), the toll road arm of the Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC).

This October, SM Supermalls transforms its spaces into a haven for our furry, feathered, and finned friends as SM City Marilao celebrates World Animal Day.

The festivities at SM City Marilao commenced with a pet blessing ceremony, where pets and their owners received blessings for health and happiness.

In addition to the pet blessing, other engaging activities were dedicated to the whole family, such as Pet Pawrade, where adorable pets walked in style in their finest attire and charming ensembles. A Paw-shion Show was also held, showcasing the latest trends in pet fashion. It’s definitely a moment to remember, as fabulous prizes and pet treats completed the celebration.

SM Center Pulilan proves that love for pets is endless as the mall conducts Pet Adoption Drive. The campaign aims to help families discover new furry members in need of loving homes.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Pet Express, your one-stop-shop for all your pet needs, located at the second level of The SM Store. Whether you’re looking for premium pet food, toys, accessories, or expert advice, Pet Express has got you covered.

World Animal Day is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about animal welfare and celebrating the diverse and incredible array of creatures that share our planet. SM City Marilao is proud to stand with this cause with spectacular events aimed at uniting animal lovers, fostering a deeper appreciation for our loyal companions, and advocating responsible pet ownership.

CARD MBA, the insurance arm of CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), secured 2-Golden Arrow Awards from the annual Asean Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) and Corporate Governance Scorecard (CGS) Golden Arrow Recognition held in Okada, Manila on September 28, 2023.

“We are grateful that our efforts have been recognized. This motivates us to continue instilling good corporate governance in our minds and the way we deliver our services,” CARD MBA Chief Executive Officer Jocelyn Dequito said.

The award honors the top-performing insurance companies that practice good corporate governance. Companies that scored 90–99 points on the 2022 ACGS Assessment Results were given 2-Golden Arrow Award.

The event is an initiative of the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) to assess organizations’ corporate governance standards. It analyzes organizations’ performance in terms of promoting transparency through timely disclosure of material information, cultivating connections with stakeholders, and safeguarding shareholders’ rights. CARD MBA is a non-profit mutual benefit association in which members are involved in direct management and operations. It provides the members benefits such as pensions, death benefits, medical subsidies, and all redemption packages.

While the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected some people’s businesses, Jennifer Suico, a native of Davao City, experienced the reverse.

When the pandemic restricted conventional transportation options, the demand for alternative modes grew. Seizing this, Jennifer, along with her partner Limwell Morales, introduced e-Bikes to the community.

Initially, they began with just two e-Bikes. Navigating through challenges, they faced resistance from TODA (Tricycle Operators and Drivers’ Association). The local area, dominated by padyak tricycles, was hesitant to welcome this new mode of transport. But after five challenging months, Jennifer and Limwell successfully began their e-Bike operation.

With the growing popularity of e-Bikes, she decided to add more units and even opened doors to sell units from other operators. From just two, their units grew to 17. Transforming the transport landscape further, former padyak drivers became her operators. Aside from earning an income, she also provided employment in their neighborhood.

Operating round-the-clock, they have a team offering transport services from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with a new team taking over for the night shift.

Apart from e-Bikes, they also have three multi-tenant houses as another source of income. They were able to buy property, send their children to private school, and upgrade their home thanks to her flourishing businesses.

Reflecting on her journey, Suico emphasizes the importance of nurturing one’s business. “It is crucial to care for and grow your business because, in time, you will get the sweet taste of success,” she said.

Journey with CARD

Jennifer’s clientship with CARD Bank, a microfinance-oriented rural bank, has become her shoulder to lean on. As a loyal client for over 12 years, she has also become a konek2CARD agent. Serving as a bridge between the bank and the community, she facilitates various transactions including cash transfers, loan payments, bill settlements, and e-loading.

Initially, Jennifer noted that some clients were hesitant about konek2CARD because they found technology intimidating. But they realized the convenience it offers, especially during weekends or holidays.

Jennifer’s story is a story of resilience, innovation, and the spirit of community upliftment during challenging times.

Over 100 job seekers in Bulacan landed their dream careers as they got hired on-the-spot during the recent Job Fairs held in SM City Baliwag and SM Center Pulilan.

The Job Fairs organized by the respective LGU and Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of Baliwag and Pulilan in partnership with SM Bulacan malls are a timely effort that aims to provide employment opportunities for job seekers ahead of the Christmas season. At the same time, the event served as an avenue for employers to solidify their company’s workforce by sourcing and filling vacancies before the year ends.

A combined total of 44 companies participated in the job fairs at SM malls in Baliwag and Pulilan, offering various vacancies across the province, including SM Supermalls career opportunities.

SM City Baliwag Mall Manager Rodora Tolentino shares that the recent job fair is one of the many ways SM Supermalls contribute to the nation-building and development of Filipinos by way of supporting the National and Local Government’s initiative of providing employment for every Filipino.

One-Stop-Shop Processing, offering services from different government agencies such as Pag-Ibig, SSS, PhilHealth, and PSA, was also available during the respective job fairs.