Another Day With MaryJane

Embedded within the human spirit lies a flame that refuses to be extinguished, a relentless drive that propels us forward against all odds. It's the indomitable 'never say die' attitude that defines our character and shapes our destiny. In the face of adversity, when others falter and surrender, we dig deeper, gathering our strength and resilience we never knew existed. Every setback becomes a springboard for growth, every obstacle a challenge to be conquered. With grit and determination as our allies, we press on, refusing to be deterred by the whispers of doubt or the shadows of uncertainty.

Let us never be afraid of the power we hold. It is important to recognize and embrace our capabilities and influence. As it encourage us to explore our inner strength and use it positively without hesitation. It gives us confidence to navigate through life's challenges and make a meaningful impact in our own and that of others too.

Being a keynote speaker was never about standing in front. It was about standing with young people ready to shape the future and who are brave enough to dream bigger, push harder, and demand a more sustainable future. Titles fade. Opportunities shift. What truly matters is the message you bring and the impact you leave behind. Just like leadership, it doesn’t start with applause or recognition, it’s not about titles or positions. It’s about seeing the unseen, hearing the unheard, doing something, anything about it. Building good relationships. But everything must start from within.

When I was appointed as an ambassador for Philippine Made, Proudly Mine, my first thought wasn’t about the recognition or the title. It wasn’t about adding another line to my résumé or another feather to my cap. My first thought was about the people. The countless hardworking Filipinos who create, innovate, and push boundaries—many of whom will never step on a stage, never receive applause, never have their names written in bold letters. And yet, it is their hands, their talent, their grit that carry this nation forward. They are the ones who turn raw materials into artistry, who turn challenges into opportunities, who hold on to hope when times get hard. They are the real story behind every product proudly stamped Philippine Made.So when I was given this title, I knew instantly—it is not about me. It’s about them.

August has been an amazing ride—one that reminds me why I do what I do. This episode isn’t about bragging, it’s about sharing wins that matter—not just to me, but to the communities and causes I serve. So let me walk you through three highlights that made this August unforgettable, where purpose aligns with opportunity, and impact feels real. So what ties them all together is this: when you live with purpose, the right doors open. Not for fame, not for power, not for applause, but for impact. That’s what this month taught me, and that’s the message I want to leave with you today.

You cannot be humble if you don’t know your power. Let’s get that straight. Humility isn’t about shrinking yourself. It’s not about being quiet in rooms where you’re meant to lead. It’s not about dimming your light so others can shine.But here’s the secret: True humility? It’s knowing exactly what you bring to the table…Then choosing to serve — not to show off.

Flooding is a problem that has been going on years and years and tons and tons of money are being put in place to provide for flood control taking into consideration that typhoons in the Philippines are always there every year and so people now are already disappointed are already angered with what's happening in spite of the budget being given being allocated to finance the installation of flood controls all over the country, still nothing is being done properly. Well, I have an answer to that, and it's a very simple answer. Corruption. Corruption in the Philippines is really an everyday occurrence. And it's a good thing that the president himself, highlighted this in his state of the Nation address.

At 46, Manny Pacquiao walked into the ring not as a nostalgia act, but as a living symbol of resilience, willpower, and the indomitable human spirit. Against a younger, reigning champion in Mario Barrios, Pacquiao didn’t just hold his own—he dominated large stretches of the fight. For nine rounds, it felt like time bowed to legacy. The speed, the angles, the relentless flurries—they were all still there. This was not a man fighting to relive past glory. This was a warrior showing the world that greatness isn't just built on talent—but on discipline, sacrifice, and unshakable belief.

Taking care of your parents is not a burden—it’s an honor. It’s love returning full circle. It’s the chance to give back a fraction of the care they poured into us, often silently, sacrificially, and without asking for anything in return. You see, in a world that glorifies ambition, schedules, and productivity, we sometimes forget that presence is the most powerful gift.Not your money. Not your achievements. Your presence.

We were all born with something special. A voice. A gift. A creative spark. A skill to lead. A heart that listens. But our talents don’t reach their full potential when we keep them hidden or hoard them out of fear. We find meaning in our gifts when we give them away. In service. In community. In love. When you create something beautiful. When you solve a problem for someone else. When you mentor, teach, lead, or simply show up with what you’ve been given—joy follows. Not the kind of joy that fades—but the kind that fills.

Today, 13 July 2025, I celebrate a meaningful milestone—100 #LinkedIn followers who believe in this vision, who see the value of creativity with purpose, and who are joining me in shaping the future of the creator economy. More than the numbers, and my goal is to reach 1,000 followers before the year ends, I see this as strong affirmation that when you build with heart, intention, and community in mind—the right people will find you. To those who followed, supported, and shared the journey—#thankyou. You are co-creators of this movement.

You can lead with grace and still carry grit. You can be soft, and still be strong. We often think of strength as being unshakeable, guarded, or hardened.But I believe some of the strongest people I’ve ever met… are the softest ones. They lead with empathy. They respond with humility. They carry grace—even in difficult moments. Grace is not weakness. And grit? Grit is what keeps you steady when the road gets rough. It’s the resilience behind your gentle smile.It’s the courage behind your quiet faith. It’s the fire that fuels you—without consuming you. Stay soft. Stay strong. Let your grace speak even when your words are few—and let your grit carry you when the world feels heavy.

We live in a world where success is often celebrated at any cost. Where ambition is rewarded, even if it leaves others behind. Where results matter more than integrity. Where applause is louder than accountability.But let me say this clearly: Success without conscience is just a performance. It might bring recognition, wealth, or power—but it leaves behind emptiness, and often, damage.

We grow up being trained to ask for approval—before we speak, before we act, before we lead. But purpose doesn’t wait for permission. And calling doesn’t require consensus. If you’re waiting for someone to validate your dream, your voice, your next step—you might be waiting forever. Some people won’t see what’s inside you until it’s already blooming. And by then? You’ll wish you had started sooner. So please don’t wait. Don’t shrink. Don’t second-guess what’s been stirring in your spirit. You are more than enough.

We’re often told to stay quiet about our plans. To keep things to ourselves until they’re finished, proven, or polished. But I believe in faith-filled declaration—in speaking what you’re believing for, even when it hasn’t arrived yet. When you speak your goals out loud, you give them space to live. You breathe life into them.
Not for validation, but for alignment. Not to show off, but to show up—for yourself and for your purpose.

We don’t practice kindness for reward. We do it because it’s who we are. Because in a world that often feels cold or chaotic, choosing to be kind is a radical form of leadership. So today, whether you’re facing challenges, or walking through joy—lead with kindness. Because in the end, our greatest legacy won’t be what we built… but who we lifted.

It’s easy to serve when the cameras are rolling. It’s easy to give when the spotlight is on. But what about the quiet acts? The unseen moments? The choices made when no one is keeping score? True public service is not about how many people follow you—it’s about how many people rise because of you. Ego says: “Look at me.” Service says: “How can I help?” Ego needs validation. Service needs only purpose. Ego seeks recognition. But service? It leaves impact. Wherever you are, whoever you’re with—choose to lead from a place of humility. That’s where your light shines brightest.

Life doesn’t always move on our schedule. There are moments when we pray, plan, push—and still, nothing seems to happen. Doors remain closed. Answers are delayed. And it’s easy to feel like the universe has forgotten us. Delays are not denials. Sometimes, they are divine detours. A pause not to punish you, but to prepare you—for something greater than you imagined. What’s meant for you won’t miss you. And if it’s delayed, it’s because you’re being prepared for something even better. Keep the faith—it’s all unfolding right on time.

Every time you show up—when it’s hard, when it’s inconvenient, when no one is watching—you are succeeding. You are planting seeds. And over time, that presence becomes your legacy. I have seen people with perfect resumes who vanish when the work gets hard. And I have seen ordinary people change lives simply by being there—present, engaged, and willing. True leadership isn’t about being flawless. It’s about being faithful. And success? It's not a finish line—it’s a pattern of presence. It’s showing up for your values, your purpose, your people—again and again and again.

Leadership is not inheritance — it is service. And we owe it to our youth to show them that integrity, merit, and genuine public service still matter. We are a nation confronting deep challenges — from the ongoing education crisis to the growing normalization of political dynasties that treat public office like a family enterprise. I worry about the future we are shaping and the kind of examples we are setting for the next generation. May those who now hold office rise to the occasion. Our children are watching. They deserve better Philippines