Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) hand signs a gratitude message to Henry Sy Foundation (HSF), Department of Education, and Pasay Local Government after they collaborated for the revitalization of the 12-room laboratory building of Senior High School students.

The Philippines’ Magna Carta for Disabled Persons ensures the rehabilitation, self-development, and self-reliance of persons with disabilities. The country provides educational assistance to people with disabilities from primary to tertiary education, including vocational or technical training.

One such school is the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) in Pasay City. For over a century, the school had demonstrated the transformative power of education in empowering and unlocking the capabilities of those with diverse disabilities to live fulfilling lives.

Though standing as a testament to the Philippines’ long-standing commitment to differently-abled education, the school, one of Southeast Asia’s oldest institutions for the deaf, suffers from the effects of time and wear, compromising its ability to fulfill its mission.

The school lacked basic facilities and accessibility features: converted classrooms, timeworn corridors, limited space for vocational training, inadequate furniture, dilapidated walls and ceilings, broken tiles and faucets, and dim lighting. It was also prone to flooding due to drainage problems, and it had only one functional toilet with a broken door infested by termites.

Revitalizing a legacy

In a transformative partnership, the Henry Sy Foundation, SM Foundation (SMFI), and the Department of Education’s Schools Division Office of Pasay City joined forces to breathe new life into the Senior High School building and a four-story, 12-classroom structure. This initiative, executed under the DepEd’s adopt-a-school program, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in revitalizing educational infrastructure for the benefit of the community.

Teachers conduct lectures on electronics in a more conducive laboratory after the rehabilitation of the school building

Previously hindered by infrastructural limitations, the century-old school now features enhanced learning spaces dedicated to various subjects, including dressmaking, beauty care, cookery, electrical, bartending, food & beverage preparation, ICT, and dance. A dance studio with a dressing room and a conference room were also refurbished.

Through the social good collaboration, the laboratory for baking and cookery has been equipped with new tools and furniture, helping conduct more hands-on classes.

To enhance safety and accessibility, ramps and railings were installed throughout the campus, ensuring ease of movement for all students. Aside from revitalizing 10 classrooms, the SM group also refurbished the conference rooms, and the lobby with a reception area to provide a comfortable environment.

Differently abled students from PSD focus as they attend their beauty and cosmetology class in their new building.

Helping instill good hygiene and encourage healthy habits, a handwashing station, and separate male and female toilets were rehabilitated with clean, functional cubicles, urinals, and PWD-friendly facilities.

The covered court was restored with a spacious stage, creating a conducive space for outdoor learning and recreation. 

The rehabilitation of the facilities at the PSD was undertaken, not just to address the physical challenges but also to cultivate an environment where every student can thrive. The project stands as a testament to the SM and Henry Sy Foundations’ continued pursuit of inclusivity and its commitment to empowering differently-abled individuals through education.

SM Foundation school building program head Juris Soliman and SMFI Project Supervisor Ar. Caren Lopez (fourth and fifth from left) with PSD Principal Shery Funcion and SDO Pasay City SGOD Sylwyn Tenorio (sixth and seventh from left) with the team behind the school’s refurbishment.

Some moments fade with time, certain experiences leave an indelible mark, shaping not just our paths but our very identities. For Atty. Marmie Deniega and Amanda Hora, the SM scholarship application wasn’t just a gateway to education; it was the moment that shaped the life they live today.

The first to obtain a degree in the family

A family legacy, SM scholar Amanda Hora becomes the first in her family to earn a degree.

Amanda’s unforgettable story as an SM scholar began when she stumbled upon a Facebook post about the SM scholarship application.

“It has always been my dream to pursue a quality education without the burden of tuition expenses. I enrolled in a university in Senior High School because of a scholarship, and I know that the only way to continue my college years at the same university is to obtain another full scholarship. That is why I never hesitated to apply for the SM scholarship, hoping to be accepted,” she said. 

In the quiet hours of the night several years back, an email from the SM Foundation lit up her phone’s screen, informing her that she had been selected for their scholarship program.

The acceptance was a mark that she was a few steps away from fulfilling another goal: “I pursued college because I wanted to become the first in our family to get a college degree.”

“My parents did not finish their studies due to financial difficulties, but they’ve always been supportive of my dreams and aspirations. Also, I believe in the importance of quality education. It is something that nobody can take away,” she added.

Amanda snaps a photo with her family as she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023.

The scholarship opened doors throughout her college years. Beyond the academic realm, she had the opportunities to join competitions, intern at prestigious firms, and build a network that extended far beyond the classroom. 

She shared: “As a scholar, the foundation’s programs and webinars allowed me to hear inspiring stories from other scholars, mentoring and motivating us to pursue our goals. When COVID-19 affected the country and whenever there were calamities, the SM Foundation looked after us. They provided us with tools that are essential for remote learning. It made me feel that I am part of a bigger family and that I am not alone in this journey.”

These experiences paved academic and personal growth. As she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023, she aims to contribute to the community by creating a ripple effect of kindness.

“I would use my knowledge to find ways to provide livelihood programs, especially in areas or communities where it is much needed. I would also advocate for financial literacy to help people effectively manage their finances and build resilience, especially during unpredictable life events. I would also use my story to inspire the youth, especially the current and future scholars, and remind them to never give up on their dreams,” she shared.

Scholar makes an impact on the community

Atty. Marmie Deniega (fifth from left) with her colleagues from IBP-Cebu Chapter.

Much like Amanda is CPA-lawyer Marmie Dyan Deniega.

Raised by a single mother amid financial struggles, the pursuit of a college degree seemed like an unattainable dream until she chanced upon a TV commercial that introduced her to the SM College Scholarship.

Recalling vividly the moment, she shares: “My mother and I were watching the television. The commercial for SM Foundation came in, and the application deadline was flashed through the screen. Coincidentally, it was on that day itself, so I rushed and submitted my application at the nearest SM Mall.”

The scholarship became the cornerstone of Marmie’s academic success. She graduated with cum laude honors in Accountancy from the University of San Jose-Recoletos, crediting the scholarship for providing not only financial support but also the freedom to focus on her studies. 

The scholarship not only shaped her academic journey but also fueled a sense of responsibility, which proved valuable when she pursued a law degree with the help of her aunt and part-time jobs.

Now successful in her field, Atty. Marmie travels and enjoys various leisure activities. Beyond this, she is thankful to have the capability to support her family.

Now, she proudly serves as an Attorney III at the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) of Mandaue City, actively contributing to her community’s development. She is one of the people who played a pivotal role in streamlining business permit processing in their city, making it more accessible to constituents.

As a firm believer in spreading social good, she finances the education of her siblings while actively engaging in community-based projects. She also stands as a resource speaker in schools for several crucial topics, such as the Anti-Bullying Law.

Apart from legal aid work in far-flung areas in Cebu, through the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Cebu Chapter, she also volunteers with Law Inc., an organization helping victims of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC). She conducts seminars across various locations in Cebu, shedding light on the intricacies of VAWC.

In the confines of her office, clients naturally turn to her for legal advice, seeking guidance on various matters: “It cannot be helped that clients will also seek legal advice from me, hence I also make it a point to help them, to the best of my ability, and within the boundaries set by law.”

Amanda and Marmie’s stories are not just individual triumphs but testaments to the impact of education. Each year, countless dreamers like them are empowered to pursue their academic aspirations and chart their paths to success through the SM College Scholarship Program.

As the application for the SM College Scholarship Program opens from Feb. 1 to March 31, 2024, countless more lives stand to be touched.

Filipinos discover the power of breathwork and meditation 

with world-renowned spiritual leader and ambassador 

of peace Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

An audience of over 1,300 people from all backgrounds was captivated by the joy and wisdom of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, world renowned humanitarian, spiritual leader and ambassador of peace, at a public talk held at The Fifth at Rockwell, Powerplant Mall, Makati. Organized by Art of Living Philippines and the International Association for Human Values (IAHV), the event gathered spiritual enthusiasts, government leaders, peacebuilders, influencers, and a diverse mix of people to highlight the importance of finding inner peace and joy during these trying times. 

The event was graced by the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr., Secretary Benhur Abalos, Jr. of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Secretary Jaime Bautista of the Department of Transportation (DOT), AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Civil Military Operations Maj. Gen. Arvin Lagamon, and His Excellency Ahmed Abdallah Ibrahim Hafez, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

During his talk, Gurudev shared how meditation gives people access to their own happiness and well-being while finding inner peace. He said, “To access this treasure we need to begin by focusing inwardly and for this we need some training. Meditation is this training. As we meditate more, we gain confidence in our innate basic goodness and well-being. This unlocks our potential and gives our lives tremendous meaning.” 

In the face of adversity, Gurudev also said that meditation not only opens a gateway to compassion but also connects people deeply with themselves and others. 

“As a child when we cried it would not take much time before we smiled again. As adults however, when we cry it could take months and sometimes years before we can smile again. We have not learned how to manage our own mind. The secret to managing our mind and emotions lies in the breath,” Gurudev explained. This is what the Art of Living and IAHV teach people to do through their programs and initiatives. 

Earlier in the week, upon his arrival in Manila, Gurudev was welcomed by the First Lady Liza Marcos at a dinner reception at the Goldenberg Mansion, Malacañang Palace. They spoke on the benefits of meditation and the need for meditation centers in the metropolis. 

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar also gave a highly impactful keynote address at the Asian Development Bank (ADB) entitled “Mental Health and Well-Being: Strengthening Resilience for Individuals, Societies and Nations”, where he talked about staff physical and mental well-being and how these considerations can be woven into ADB’s development projects.

Later that day, Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar held a closed-door meeting with key stakeholders working on peacebuilding and conflict resolution, including key officials from the AFP and the Philippines Government, as mentioned earlier, and representatives from the United Nations, Z Group, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.

Through a myriad of programs and teachings conducted by Art of Living and IAHV, Gurudev has reached and touched the lives of almost 450 million people in 180 countries – including 15,000 Filipinos – empowering and equipping people to tackle challenges at the individual, societal, national, and global levels. 

The cornerstone of Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s teachings is the Sudarshan Kriya (SKY) – a simple but powerful breathing technique that has been demonstrated in over 100 independent peer-reviewed scientific studies to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress; boost immunity; improve sleep; and increase life satisfaction; among other benefits. 

Recognized for his significant global contributions, Gurudev has to date received 26 honorary doctorates and 55 government honors, including the highest civilian awards of Colombia, Mongolia, Paraguay, and Suriname. Twenty-nine days have been named after him in various cities and states across the USA and Canada.

Gurudev continues to help a growing number of Filipinos foster deep and profound inner peace, happiness, and well-being through numerous educational and self-development programs offered by Art of Living and IAHV. 

Platinum sponsors of the event were Standard Insurance and Wings Publication International. 

For more information about the organizations programs, visit www.artofliving.org and www.iahv-philippines.org 

(L-R) Philippine Stock Exchange president and CEO Ramon Monzon, AB Capital & Investment Corporation chairman and CEO Antonio Jose Periquet and GCash group head of wealth management Jong Layug

Top e-wallet widens Filipinos’ access to stocks

GCash, the Philippines’ top finance app and largest cashless ecosystem, recorded nearly half a million user base for GStocks PH as it ramps up the reach of its stock investment platform.

In 2023, GCash tapped AB Capital Securities, Inc. (ABCSI), to introduce GStocks PH to its millions of users, allowing them to diversify their portfolios and choose companies listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE).

“Through our partnership with GCash, it’s now very easy for an individual to open an account for local stock investments and trade in stocks, with just a tap of their finger”, said AB Capital & Investment Corporation Chairman and CEO Antonio Jose Periquet.

Together with ABCSI, GCash provides a stock investment platform that is more convenient, safer, and easier to understand, especially for beginner investors.

“I wish to commend GCash and AB Capital for this partnership aimed at improving access and delivery of financial products and services to our consumers. For us at the Commission, this partnership, which leverages advancements in digital technology, is precisely the kind of innovation that must be encouraged from our financial service providers, as it directly contributes not only to our efforts to accelerate financial inclusion but also capital market development,” said Commissioner McJill Bryant Fernandez of the Securities and Exchange Commission in a recorded video message.

GStocks PH has taken strides in gaining investors' confidence by establishing itself as a reliable trading channel and by offering well-timed investment insights and advisories to its users. With half a million users already registered to GStocks PH, GCash has attracted an extensive and diverse range of users in every region in the country namely in the National Capital Region (37%), North Luzon (15%), South Luzon (25%), Visayas (13%), and Mindanao (10%)

“We have a compounded annual growth rate of about 11 percent in stock market investors. I’m hopeful that with the easy access and the education initiatives that we are doing for the GCash subscribers, hopefully, at least in the next five years, if they could double that 1.9 million, we'll be happy," said Philippine Stock Exchange President and CEO Ramon Monzon.

With GStocks PH, GCash users can easily unlock the world of investing in local stocks – register easily, top up quickly and free of charge, as well as seamlessly invest in over 280 local companies listed on the PSE – all within the GCash app. Using the newest wealth tool of GCash, the Learning Hub, users can also access valuable and bite-sized content to better grasp financial concepts. GCash users can access the Learning Hub by going to GInvest from the main dashboard.

“We are very determined to craft different solutions and make wealth creation easier for millions of Filipinos, while ensuring compliance with our regulators. We found like-minded partners in AB Capital and the PSE who share the vision of advancing financial empowerment for more Filipinos in a way that is safe, easy, and less daunting,” said GCash Group Head of Wealth Management Jong Layug.

Remember those epic snack adventures you had as a kid? Whether it was running off to the playground with a snack during recess or packing all of your favorite treats for a picnic at the park with the family, snacktime back then had a certain kind of magic. 

Now, snacktime can be more fun and exciting—both for the young and the young at heart—with Jack ‘n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks’ new, oh-so-savory flavors: BBQ (barbeque) and Cheddar & Sour Cream.

Here are three reasons why the new Jack ‘n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks is a must-try:

1. It comes in two bold and exciting flavors that might just rock your taste buds

Jack ‘n Jill is offering pretzel lovers more delightful flavor options with the release of the first ever savory flavors of its Pretzels Stick Snacks. First is its BBQ flavor, which offers that burst of spice and smoky flavor. Think of it like a backyard barbecue adventure in snack form.

If you’re a fan of cheese and sour cream-flavored snacks, there’s the Cheddar & Sour Cream variant to satisfy your cheesy cravings. These pretzel sticks are all about that cheesy goodness with a sour cream twist that will have you and your kids hankering for more.

2. It’s snackable fun for adults and kids

The new Jack ‘n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks is a yummy snack option to share and enjoy with your kids. It’s light, bite-sized and crunchy—great for anyone who’s craving a quick snack. This munchable pretzel snack can be enjoyed by the whole family be it as snack companion for when you’re at home watching a movie, as a recess treat for the kids during school days, or even as yummy baon for weekend road trips.

3. It’s amazingly pocket-friendly

The new Jack ‘n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks won't break the bank. You can get a 28g pack for only P8.50 (SRP), making it a delicious and budget-friendly choice for families.

Are you and your kids up for a new, fun-filled flavor adventure? Check out the new Jack 'n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks in BBQ and Cheddar & Sour Cream today.

Head to your nearest grocery store and grab a pack of Jack 'n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks in BBQ and Cheddar & Sour Cream, or shop online. For more snacking ideas, fun activities, and exciting surprises, follow Jack ‘n Jill on Facebook.

Jack ‘n Jill Pretzels is a product of Universal Robina Corporation (URC), maker of well-loved Pinoy snack and beverage products such as C2 Cool and Clean, Great Taste Coffee, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Nova, Maxx, Cloud 9, Magic Crackers, and many others. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).  

Enjoy a fun-filled flavor adventure with the new Barbecue and Cheddar & Sour Cream flavors of Jack ‘n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks

Try these two NEW savory flavors of Jack ’n Jill Pretzels Stick Snacks now