Community development takes centerstage at 26th Global Pinoy Bazaar

MANILA, Philippines — The Project Eight Initiative recently put together a vibrant mix of Filipino-owned brands, social enterprises and advocacies aimed at uplifting local communities in the 26th Global Pinoy Bazaar from November 7-10 at the Palm Drive Activity Center in Glorietta 2, Makati City.

Organized by Yabang Pinoy, the bazaar showcased the ingenuity of Filipino entrepreneurs and provided an empowering platform for Filipino advocates and influencers to network, learn and inspire each other toward nation-building.

Among the advocates from The Project Eight Initiative who actively participated were Edwin "Daddy Ed" Coquilla (Life Coach), Vhince Polinag (ALS & Youth Leadership), Rhen Dimaano (Agriculture), Mitch Velitario (Volunteerism) and Geeian "Ghie" Gambala (Mental Health).

Each representative brought a unique perspective and takeaway from the event, which underscored the value of sustainable growth, resilience, and communit based solutions.

“Daddy Ed” Coquilla, as a life coaching and personal development mentor, reflected on the powerful role life coaching plays in shaping a resilient mindset, especially for young entrepreneurs.

He noted how connecting with Filipino small business owners at the bazaar highlighted the importance of emotional resilience, goal-setting and continuous personal growth.

“Sa bawat negosyong Pinoy, makikita natin ang dedikasyon, sakripisyo, at pangarap ng bawat isa. Lahat tayo ay may kwento at may layunin. Tuloy ang laban para sa mga pangarap, para sa pamilya, at para sa bayan,” he said.

Polinag, meanwhile, found the bazaar’s success inspiring, especially as it showcased young entrepreneurs' courage to pursue their dreams.

Seeing their stories unfold, he mentioned the importance of supporting youth through accessible education, like Alternative Learning System (ALS), and empowering them to lead.

“Ang kabataan ay pag-asa ng bayan. Kung tayo ay susuportahan sa edukasyon at paggabay, mas maraming kabataang Pinoy ang mag-aangat ng ating bansa sa mas mataas na antas,” he shared.

On agricultural advocacy, Dimaano observed how small, locally sourced food businesses and agricultural brands brought forward products that promote the value of sustainable agriculture and responsible farming.

His takeaway was that advocating for better agricultural practices and supporting local farmers is vital to building a self-sufficient Philippines.

“Para sa akin, ito ang patunay na kapag sinusuportahan natin ang lokal na agrikultura, hindi lamang ang magsasaka ang nagtatagumpay kundi pati ang buong bayan,” Rhen remarked.

On volunteerism, Velitario said she was inspired by the strong sense of volunteerism and community among Filipino entrepreneurs.

Her experience at the bazaar reinforced her commitment to promoting volunteer-driven initiatives that give back to local communities.

She said: “Ang pagsasama-sama ng mga taong may malasakit ay nakabubuo ng mga proyektong makakatulong sa mas nakararami. Sa bawat pagbenta at pagbili, may kuwento ng pagtutulungan.”

Gambala, a mental health advocate, emphasized how entrepreneurship can both empower and challenge mental health.

For many Filipinos, starting a business is a risk that requires strong mental resilience, and she noted the need for mental health support within the business community.

“Napakahalaga na habang tayo ay nagtatrabaho at nagpapanday ng pangarap, hindi natin nakakalimutan ang sarili nating mental well-being. Suporta at pagmamahal sa sarili ang kailangan,” Ghie shared.

The 26th Global Pinoy Bazaar was not just a showcase of Filipino-made products; it was also a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience of Filipinos.

The Project Eight Initiative advocates left the event inspired and motivated to bring back the learnings they acquired to their respective advocacies.

The bazaar highlighted that the future of Filipino business lies not only in individual success but also in collective community growth.

With the insights gained, The Project Eight Initiative team aims to foster a deeper commitment to their advocacy work.

Whether it’s through life coaching, agricultural support, youth empowerment, volunteerism, or mental health awareness, their vision is clear: to uplift and empower every Filipino through shared passion, sustainable practices and unwavering resilience.

The 26th Global Pinoy Bazaar stands as a reminder that Filipinos can achieve great things when they work together and believe in the value of their unique contributions.