Addressing "mompreneurs" during Gawad Madiskarte 2024 at Seda Hotel, BGC on Oct. 19, PLDT COO Menardo “Butch” Jimenez Jr. celebrated their contributions, saying, “You work wonders in three different worlds: the world of home, your own personal growth, and the world of business. You’re actually doing three times the work that men are doing.”
Now in its third year, Gawad Madiskarte, organized by Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) and PLDT Home, highlights the achievements of mompreneurs across the country. This year’s event emphasized sustainable practices, aligning with PLDT's commitment to gender empowerment and environmental responsibility.
"This is the embodiment of gender empowerment because it allows women not only to dream but to take action and to make a difference in society," added PLDT chief sustainability officer Melissa Vergel De Dios.
With over 191,000 members, MMPH has grown significantly since its founding in 2020, encouraging women to pursue entrepreneurship.
Philippine Commission on Women Chair Ermelita V. Valdeavilla emphasized the power of the Filipino term madiskarte as “strategic, wise, smart, inventive, ingenious, resourceful, clever, witty, innovative, and proactive,” encapsulating the spirit of these women.
Gawad Madiskarte 2024 received more than 100 applications, shortlisted 17 mompreneurs and their businesses, and awarded eight mompreneurs in two main categories and three special awards.
The main category winners were Stephanie Morales of Pixellab and Ricca Cruz del Rosario of HTP Clothing for the Diskarteng Angat award, recognizing their impressive growth and innovation. The Diskarteng Eco-Friendly award went to Melissa Blanca Moscoso of Xavier & Xandrie and Bianca Mateum of Isay Bags, who were celebrated for their commitment to sustainable practices. In the Diskarteng May-Puso category, Avon Tuazon Obedoza of Bahay Ugnayan Educational Services and Alona Bazar Laylo of Jobiba Baby Diapers were honored for their heart-centered businesses that positively impact their communities.
Special awards went to Jenilyn P. Sicabalo of MP Nieva Flower Shop, who won the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, and MK Bertulfo, founder of FH Moms, who took home both the Diskarteng Digital and Diskarteng Homebiz awards for advancing women in the digital economy.
This year’s panel of judges included Butch Jimenez; Jonjon San Agustin, EVP for marketing at SM Supermalls; Tweetie de Leon, mompreneur and owner of TdLG Designs; Angelica Chongco, owner of Mayumi Organics; Pia Hontiveros, broadcast journalist; and Annette Gozon-Valdes, president of GMA Films."
