The magic happens when we change lanes
Challenges point out to us the people in our lives who truly deserve our time and energy
“One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful.”
Whenever we conquer any challenge life throws our way, we inevitably achieve the most growth and personal development. Our character is strengthened by the stress, like a diamond forming after being subjected to intense heat and pressure, and we are able to exit our darkness with more self-confidence and self-respect. As we go through the unavoidable struggles of everyday life, we always need to energize ourselves with the knowledge that we can survive any obstacles we encounter, and we will come out of it thriving.
The magic happens when we change lanes and get out of our comfort zones. Sometimes this occurs by choice, but many times it is by an opportunity or path that we simply can’t say no to or turn back from. At any crossroads in life, we just need to go out there and do it! In redefining our purpose at any given stage, we learn from our failures and challenges, and are able to live gratefully and passionately!
As we all celebrate Thanksgiving and the upcoming holiday season, we all need to start with a grateful heart and give love and support to all those who matter to us. One thing about the challenges we face is that they point out to us the people in our lives that truly deserve our time and energy.
After a long two years of no events, the SM family once again hosted a Thanksgiving lunch for the media, which included the team at Inquirer. It was wonderful to exchange stories of gratitude after pandemic life, especially over the delicious food at Conrad Hotel. In the end, we all agreed that family is our priority, and that there is always a continuous need to give back to our communities.
The powerhouse lunch guests were all super inspiring, inviting us all to do good and give more. The Sy family represented by Teresita Sy-Coson and Hans Sy were joined by SM Prime president Jeffrey Lim
and SM Supermalls president Steven Tan.
The next day, I was happy to join the ribbon cutting of the Noel Bazaar at the World Trade Center, ongoing now until Nov. 30. Proceeds from sales will go to the GMA Kapuso Foundation and the Inquirer Foundation, so please come and support! Shopping is always a fun time, especially when we get to help our community in the process.
Championing local seafood
After the Noel Bazaar event, I cut another ribbon at the reopening of Cold Storage Seafood in San Juan City. Over the last two decades, Cold Storage Seafood has been championing local seafood within the Philippines and around the world.
From a simple yet ambitious dream of bringing the best seafood from all over the world to the Philippines, all their hard work and innovation have led to over 400 different products available in more than 150 groceries and supermarkets
around the country, and through carefully selected channels around the world.
It all started when Mariano Qua established Sikat Araw Trading Corp. in 1988 to export the best seafood from the Philippines to customers around the world. The company specialized in exporting giant shrimps—the country’s top seafood back in the day.
In an effort to maintain high levels of quality, the company worked hard to build relationships with local fisheries, shrimp farms and even local fishermen to create a sustainable and responsible source. From exporting seafood, the decision to bring in seafood from all over the world was made. This innovation gave birth to Cold Storage Seafood and spurred the beginning of the frozen seafood industry
in the Philippines.
“Way before everyone became aware of sustainable seafood and responsible fishing, we were already doing it. We understand it is the only way to keep a consistent supply to address the constant demand for high quality seafood,” Cold Storage Seafood president Marco Qua said. “As suppliers, it is our goal to make sure every trade partner we serve will never run out of excellent seafood options on their menu or shelves.”
As Cold Storage Seafood grew through word of mouth and referrals from satisfied customers, they decided to open their own store where individual consumers can purchase directly from them, which meant better quality seafood at a friendlier price point. In 1996, they opened their first store in Banawe, Quezon City. Shortly
after, they opened another store on Wilson Street in San Juan City. This November, they renovated the San Juan branch to better serve their loyal customers.
“My brother Morris and I always believed in our father’s vision of making our local seafood world class. But while people abroad were savoring the bounty of our local seas, we realized our fellow Pinoys were having a hard time enjoying seafood for different reasons,” Marco recalled.
“Most Filipinos believe seafood is expensive, difficult to prepare and messy. By providing export quality seafood at a more affordable price, we hope to encourage more Pinoys to enjoy some of the best seafood from around the world in a more convenient way. We want to break the stigma on seafood
and show people that it’s accessible, affordable, easy to prepare, and of course, delicious.”
With the relaunch of the San Juan branch, Cold Storage Seafood hopes to encourage a new breed of loyal customers, especially with the rise of younger people interested in food because of engaging and mouthwatering content on social media, and the increased awareness of the importance of sustainable practices in the seafood industry.
Marco said, “We’re extremely happy and proud of what we have done, but we are even more excited for what is to come.”
Living intentionally
The ultimate version of us requires living intentionally with a mindset of commitment and discipline. After a year of attending life coaching and
personal development classes with coach Eileen Juan (email eileen@excellereconsulting.com) of Vitamin CEO, I feel so focused and driven and quite excited for 2023.
From our diving days decades ago, Eileen is now a Whistler-based Work-Life designer empowering leaders to create impactful lives and leave a positive dent in the world. As a life and leadership coach that works with entrepreneurs and professionals, Eileen helps clients get motivated and committed to their growth and transformation. Her mission is to help leaders develop themselves in a non-judgmental and safe environment.
She has helped me design and improve my own mindset, encourage effective action, and support lasting change. She has truly empowered and inspired me with so many helpful growth tips and reflection exercises.
My loving Poplex
Let me end with greeting the first love of my life, my father, Alex Prieto. Our loving and hilarious Poplex has always inspired me to embrace life with passion and to give generously to those in need. Without a caring father and grandfather like Poplex around, it would be so much harder to weather the storms that life throws our way.
Thankfully, I always feel his support and concern for my well-being, and that helps me find strength within myself. The way Poplex cares for everyone around him is so special to witness, and our family feels so blessed to be around his good heart, funny jokes, and, of course, his knowledge and expertise in golf!
Cheers to many more family times on the green! We love you, Poplex, and happy birthday!