What binds us together

By Mayren Guico, Karen Mantukay, and Riely Monte, Content Interns

As the pandemic halted the world and changed the daily lives of people, we now experience the new world as the Enhanced Community Quarantine was announced and enacted. While others are sacrificing their lives to heal and protect the people from the virus, others are blessed to be working from home, away from the dangers of the pandemic. Working remotely has given not just employees but also interns a chance to continue their work life while ensuring that they are safe and with the comfort of their families.

Some are not as lucky to have the opportunity to work from home. But thanks to TeamAsia, we still get to learn and keep brands alive at the safety of our homes. Everything is exactly the same–the only difference is that we don’t get to see each other physically, and bond together like we do every now and then in the office.

Now that we’re on our 10th week of the work from home setup, we came to better understand what exactly binds TeamAsians together despite not being physically together. This very reason is also why we find motivation in waking up every morning, making coffee, and bracing ourselves for a fruitful day to connect with our colleagues and give our best shot as we usher to this new normal.

Every morning we look forward to our morning pop ups. It’s like a daily check in to see what we’ve been up to at home and how we’re coping with the current set up. It’s fifteen minutes of sharing and chatting with TeamAsians to ensure that even though we’re not physically together, we are never apart at heart. Aside from it being the perfect boost to our every morning, it also displays the kind of company TeamAsia is–that despite being not physically together, it’s not a hindrance to keep the company intact and motivated to face the day with vigor and gusto. Nobody is left out. Everyone is checked up by one another, because this is not a company that functions through individuality but rather in harmony achieved through inclusivity.

No one can deny the camaraderie every employee has in TeamAsia. It’s one thing to be in such a progressive and collaborative environment, but it’s also important to be in a headspace where you are cared for not only as an employee but also as a part of a family. This familial culture is reflected on the way TeamAsians work. This builds our identity–this is reflected on every piece of work we have done. This is why we value what we do, and this is why we are here.

For a company to function, employees should feel and want to be a part of it. This very familial culture of TeamAsia is exactly what binds us together. We live by it. This is how we keep our passion and brands alive.

PHOTOS

Quick photo opp before Content and the interns proceed with the weekly Edboard

TeamAsia family celebrating Next Level Experiences

TeamAsia celebrating Women’s Month by showing a sign of solidarity for equality

TeamAsia’s 2019 Havana Nights Christmas Party

TeamAsia’s Be Bright Family Photo

Making a productive remote internship work

Making a comprehensive remote internship work

by Mayren Guico, Karen Mantukay, and Riely Monte, Content Interns

An internship is a great opportunity to obtain work familiarity and knowledge. There may be times or changes that are new to us, but we use those moments to develop our character and ethics. It is more than learning how to make a good cup of coffee. It is a phase where an intern should learn how to discipline themselves, discover patience, utilize their strengths and reinforce their weaknesses.

The greatest challenge to our internship is probably the COVID-19 outbreak. As a precautionary measure, TeamAsia adopted a work-from-home scheme to guarantee the health and safety of its employees and that includes us interns. While we understand the situation and why the decision was made, working from home as interns is not easy as it seems. But thanks to technology, we have the tools we need to guide us to a productive and efficient remote internship experience.

Based on our collective experience, here are some tips that we would like to share with our fellow interns who are also experiencing remote internships at the comfort of your own home:

1. Set a schedule. It is important for your employers and colleagues to know when you will be working. This allows them to map out certain projects they can assign you to do based on your schedule. Set the best time where you can be productive and also remember to take a break. Create a schedule for your internship and make sure that everyone who needs to know it is well informed about it.

2. Avoid distractions. Working from home, you may have a tendency to procrastinate which will definitely affect your productivity level. Just like how it is necessary to create a schedule, it is also essential to have a workspace where you can avoid distractions. Turn off the television, skip the social media, and create a version of your own office where you can concentrate.

3. Be professional. You won’t be getting a lot of supervision at home unlike in the office. However, this doesn’t mean that you should no longer dress up. Act as if you are having an on-site internship. Remote internship is just the same as any regular internship which is why it should be approached the same way. Stay focused, organized, and always be professional.

4. Always communicate. Checking in with your supervisor and colleagues regularly is a good way to stay on track. It is a good way for you to stay motivated because you are able to report how much work you’ve finished. Constant communication also allows your supervisor to assign you tasks, keeping you focused for the entirety of your internship. Cement your relationship with your colleagues by staying connected with them even while working from home.

5. Be proactive. Working remotely offers you a lot of time and freedom but this doesn’t mean that you take them for granted. Just like in the office, never hesitate to ask questions, raise ideas, and ask for feedback. Doing so will give you chances to work on a variety of tasks which will improve your skills professionally. This may also make you stand out to your supervisors which will lead to exciting and interesting opportunities.

6. Put your best foot forward. Remote internships offer you an opportunity to show your commitment, dedication, and passion for work. Never lose sight of your goal even if these are extraordinary times. Do your best to gain skills and knowledge, and leave the best lasting impression.

Treat your remote internship like any other onsite internships. With technology, determination, and discipline, these tips will surely help you maximize your learning experience just as it has been for us. This also lets you build connections and enhance relationships, while creating an impact at your internship even if you are just at home.

The key to securing a comprehensive remote internship is to see it as an opportunity to earn great experiences that will help you succeed in the real world. Get creative, absorb the learnings, stay focused, and take the extra mile.

Be sponTAneous when things don’t go as planned

by Johanna Amancio, Media Relations Associate

Like a singer losing his voice or a bride getting stuck in traffic, nothing is more upsetting for an organizer than a plan going out of hand. When I was assigned to create a three-day program for this year’s TeamAsia geTAway, I knew I had to make a foolproof plan. After all, it was my first time being a part of the outing committee. After a few meetings, meriendas, and revisions with my fellow committee members, we came up with the theme “Slip ‘n Slide”—inspired by the huge inflatable island in our resort, MB Cove. With the help of our directors, the committee came up with an engaging plan, even for a group of rest-seeking individuals (including yours truly). But as they say, the future is promised to no one.

No power, no problem
After three hours of travel, TeamAsia made it to the MB Cove Resort in Nasugbu, Batangas. Our bus, however, was too big to enter the resort’s parking space so we had to make a short walk to the place. Upon reaching the resort, I had a sudden urge to dive into the sea and play for the rest of the day, but being the supposed adult that I am, I went to our designated room and began unpacking like the rest. Before I could even open my bags, one of my colleagues came in and said that there was no electricity. Power outages are not that uncommon especially in a remote area such as our resort. From my previous family outing, I learned that some areas in Batangas had a power distribution schedule so a brownout is nothing to me. But after three hours of travel and walking under the stupefying heat, I knew that such slight inconvenience can come a long way for some. Upon stepping out of our temporarily aircon-free room, to my surprise, I saw an active crowd. The power outage somehow kept everyone from locking themselves inside their rooms. Everyone was out, appreciating the place, playing cards and beer pong, and enjoying each others’ company. And just after enjoying our sumptuous lunch, the power was back at one!

TeamAsia geTAway 1

Letting nature take its course
After a brief siesta, we called everyone for a short game briefing. The game was a one-shot music video that each team can shoot in the afternoon before we play it during the evening program. In preparation for our President’s, Monette Iturralde Hamlin (MIH), talk in the afternoon, we took a personality test that would determine our temperament type. In a bright and sunny day such as what we had, a destructive storm is the last thing you would expect—but that was exactly what we got. Just as everyone started to put their ideas into action, a violent storm hit our area. Tents, plants and even the inflatables were all over the place just as everyone was running aimlessly, looking for a safe and dry spot. After the unexpected downpour, everyone entered their respective rooms and tried processing mother nature’s stunt. But despite being disruptive, I realized that a brief and violent storm was just what we needed after hours of scorching heat. It even gave way to a longer personal and rest time. Some even took this time to bond and share stories. After the rain, the resort staff also put the inflatables aside. But even without it, the team had an amazing afternoon swim together and had fun even with just each other’s company.

In the evening, right before dinner, MIH gathered us for a brief session about the personality test we took earlier that day. I learned that there are four temperament types namely Sanguine, Choleric, Melancholic, and Phlegmatic. I turned out to be a Popular Sanguine and just like everyone else, I was surprised to discover how on-point my characteristics were. The night ended with a bonfire session near the beach with a few cold drinks and warm company of each other.

TeamAsia geTAway 2

Improvising is the key
The next day was filled with adventure. Vince, Thea, Althea and I from the Content Department decided to go island hopping with Abi, Gena and Justin from the Experience Department and Enzo, Clarisse, and Joyce from the Marketing and Accounts Department. We went to the nearby islands, which are owned by two prominent politicians in the country. That day was filled with many firsts–my first boat ride, first island hopping activity, and my first coral injury. But despite our wounds, the fun must go on!

TeamAsia geTAway 3

In the afternoon, everyone was gathered to join the highlight of the outing– the obstacle relay in the inflatable island. But just as everyone got out of their rooms for the game, a heavy downpour struck our area again. With that heavy rainfall, it was almost impossible to go through the obstacle relay and the staff would not let us play in the inflatables until the rain stopped. But with everyone already by the shore, people began to improvise and started a game of agawan base (stealing base), which brought out the kid in us. After the storm, there was a go signal to use the inflatables. Though it may look easy from afar, using the inflatables was no easy task. It was slippery, bouncy, and made everyone fall on their backs. But now that I think about it, the short agawan base game became sort of a warm-up exercise for everyone, with the team running around and jumping in the shoreline. Everyone enjoyed the inflatable island particularly the human projectile inflatable slide. By the evening, everyone had a chill time over a fun trivia game.

Last Day
As expected, almost everyone was up late morning and had their breakfast. Some of us stayed in our rooms after and enjoyed an anime series called “The Promised Neverland”. By lunch, some of our colleagues were still swimming at the beach. I was so jealous and wanted to follow, but I had to tend to my wet clothes and towels. By noon, the teams were gathered just before our departure to declare the winners. And even if I enjoyed the activities from afar as a committee, I still felt like a winner because I got the rest and adventure that I badly needed. Throughout the geTAway, a part of me was consistently worried given that the outing did not entirely go as planned. Storms would come and go, the power would be out, and activities will be put to a halt. But at the end of it all, I learned that just like life itself, things won’t always go as planned. And sometimes, the key is to not wait for the perfect moment. Instead, let’s take the moment and make it perfect instead.

The Good Trade PH: A Vlog by Thea Madrideo

“I just felt like I needed to do something for my community and my environment. We’re not the only living creatures on the planet. We share the same resources. It’s not a coincidence that we’re the smartest. Being that, I believe we should take care of the planet more.”

A few weeks ago, our PR Associate Thea Madrideo visited The Good Trade Fair to immerse herself with the group’s advocacy towards green living initiatives.

Link to Thea’s Channel.

Thea shares TeamAsia’s advocacy of being more involved with environmental conservation and being more conscious with the products that she uses. One of our biggest campaigns towards sustainability is our initiative towards greener conference events. Learn more about our campaign here.

Work and Play: What I learned about TeamAsia during my very first GeTAway

by Patrick de Jesus, Marketing & Accounts Department

Coming in as a new Accounts Manager in TeamAsia, I immediately noticed how the culture is a great combination of work and play. I enjoy the fact that working overtime is not encouraged, even though it’s a trend among agencies. Because my personality is a mix of serious and quirky, I realized that getting along with the team would be a breeze.

LAIYA

This is why when they announced the summer outing, I was sure that it would be an unforgettable experience even though Laiya, Batangas is a familiar place. The theme was Summer TAmbayan–very characteristic of the fun and laid back TeamAsia culture. In fact, we were given the liberty to do what we wanted upon arrival. I for one enjoyed the morning sunshine by the beach with my awesome teammates from the Marketing and Accounts department.

MADness

Being a new member of the TeamAsia family, I had reservations about spending time with the other departments; but everyone’s warm welcome and easygoing manner quickly washed away that feeling. The team activities especially helped me warm up with the others, as we were grouped in random. It was a great chance for me to get to know them better.

YAY!

The “The Longest Waste Line” was a highlight for me. The goal of the game was to collect as much trash in the resort and beach front as we can to make the longest line of trash possible. Aside from honing our competitive spirit and uniting us as teams, the activity also served as an opportunity for everyone to take part in conserving the environment. It was a memorable experience that made an impact in the way I see the trash we leave behind.

Beachside

Upon sunset, we concluded the day with a bonfire and a heartfelt speech by our principals. Afterwards, a handful of people decided to stay up to hang out or take a dip in the pool with music and some drinks. As I chatted and talked about life with my new colleagues under the stars, I realized that they are the bunch I want to stick around with.

geTAway 2018

Even though I’ve only been with TeamAsia for over a month, people treated me as if they knew me so well. What’s more, it was interesting to see how everyone took the activities seriously all while having fun. It was a clear picture of how everyone is able to balance work and play–a culture that I personally look for in a company. It’s no fun when your colleagues treat you as merely colleagues, so I’m glad that in TeamAsia I feel like I am part of a family.

A Gallery of Terror – TeamAsia’s TAkot 2017

by Derek Primo, Marketing and Accounts Intern

TAkot 2017 was a gallery of true terror.

Hours before the annual Halloween tradition last October 30, everyone in the office was working as usual. Their eyes were glued on their laptop screens, calmly minding their own business, and acting as if they did not prepare for the impending horror of the day’s event. Or so I thought.

A week prior, each department was notified of this year’s challenge. The teams were tasked to organize a hair-raising experience revolving around the stories of ghosts living in each room within TeamAsia premises.

As soon as the bell was rung to prompt everyone to stop working and start gearing up for the event, the atmosphere of the office changed completely. The competition started to heat up and the people prepared to bring their A-game in unraveling what they have planned to terrify everyone else.

To add to the thrill of it all, TeamAsia clients were invited to be judges for the day. Capital One Country General Manager Peter Hayden and J. Walter Thompson Manila Managing Director Golda Roldan were great sports as they walked through each scary room. Before my eyes was a total transformation, as everyone embraced their characters and dedicatedly enacted their stories.

EXPERIENCE TEAM – The House of the Occult

The Experience Department lived up to their name as they gave the judges an unforgettable experience that transported them to a scenario that can only be seen in movies.

They won first place for their story entitled “The House of The Occult,” which is centered on the story of a little girl seeking for help to save her mother, who was kidnapped by evil elements while they were buying dolls at an unknowingly occult house.

Passersby Peter and Golda showed mercy on the little girl. They went inside the house, found the mother, and tried to set her free, only to find out that she is actually evil herself. Beside her were cohorts waiting to feed on fresh prey. With barely enough time to escape, the terrified lot watched in horror as the little girl locks them in and watches them perish with a menacing grin. It was a trap all along.

CONTENT TEAM – #NasaanSiJunJun

Winning second place, the Content Department masterfully narrated a realistic tale about JunJun, the ghost that resided in the old TeamAsia office. They capitalized on the terrifying possibility of the scenes actually happening, as it was based on true to life experiences.

As Peter and Golda entered the room, the voice of a young boy started talking out of nowhere. It was JunJun, who was beginning to reminisce. He told them stories of the times when the old office was filled with the smiles and banters of TeamAsians, which brought him joy. However, his stories of fond memories slowly transitioned to bitter complaints as he recalls the pain of being left alone when TeamAsia moved to its new office. Wanting to reconnect with his “friends”, JunJun decided to haunt the Think Big Conference Room to seek revenge and make sure that he will never leave his “beloved” TeamAsians ever again.

MARKETING AND ACCOUNTS TEAM – Driven Mad by Passion

In third place was the Marketing and Accounts Department, who wittingly told the horrors of creative work.

Their story entitled “Driven Mad by Passion” is about Kia, a very passionate worker who would do anything to get the best and biggest ideas. In this journey to greatness she would go the extra mile and kill anyone who opposes her idea with a better one, lock their souls in the room and steal their ideas.

One night, Peter and Golda witnessed what happened when she was alone with the last member of the team. The member gave an amazing idea and this kindled the monster inside Kia. This revealed the morbid truth that Kia has parts of her victims inside her head that talk to her. The souls of the dead people will remain in the room forever unless Kia is stopped.

CREATIVES – The Overtime Meal

The Creatives Department showcased their remarkable craftsmanship to narrate their story entitled “The Overtime Meal”. It is about a group of employees who had to work overtime to complete a deliverable by the end of the day. The group labored non-stop as they worked against the clock. Exhausted and hungry, they realized in the dead of night that they did not have money to buy food.

Out of severe starvation, Hardy, one of the employees, slowly became possessed. This led him to perform a ritual and sacrifice one of their own, which ended up in cannibalism.

DIGITAL – Emily

The Digital Department told a gripping story that is set in a closet. The closet used to be a refuge of solace for an eight year-old girl named Emily, who suffers from Juvenile Schizophrenia.

Found within the closet is a page from her diary, and her disturbing medical records. Her stories detail a troubled childhood. With her parents struggling with drug addiction and peddling illegal substances, Emily found comfort with her stuffed toys, which she would pretend to have tea and have play dates with. Until they all became real for Emily. And Emily became gruesome with her play dates with her toys, ultimately deciding on her demise by jumping off the window.

FINANCE AND ADMIN – The Haunted Office

The Finance and Admin Department told a story about TeamAsia’s auspicious move to its new headquarters. The team worked hard to set up operations in the abandoned building, only to discover later that there are restless spirits living within its halls.

As TeamAsia tried to ignore the threats, the spirits and dark elements lurking in the office grew more and more restless, deliberately disturbing the peace of the mortals who call this haunted place their home.

WEB & IT TEAM

Finally, the Web and IT Department told a story about a newly hired employee who was bullied for being a newbie. The pain and shame that he experienced led him to experience depression and eventually, commit suicide. The news spread in the workplace quickly, causing shock, fear, and accusations. Since the incident, the once happy office became haunted. The new employee’s restless soul stayed in the office to take revenge by picking and killing one person each year. Everyday, he haunts like a poltergeist, shaking things up, and reminding everyone of his presence.

At the end of the frightful showcase, everyone proudly applauded their colleagues. Looking back, I can say that it is truly one of the highlights of my internship experience as I witnessed an excellent exhibition of teamwork, creativity, and amazing storytelling.

Experience team’s The House of The Occult won first place

The Content team won second place with #NasaanSiJunJun

Marketing and Accounts team won third place with their enactment of Driven Mad by Passion

10 Things Millennials Look for in a Company

By Alisa Docena, Content Department Intern

It is estimated that by 2020, at least half of the global workforce will consist of millennials—a generation mostly labeled as “self-absorbed” and “entitled”. As someone from this generation, I think our motivations are a little bit misunderstood. It’s not that we are expecting everything to be handed to us, it’s just that we are more assertive because we want to make the most of everyday. We are hungry for experiences and we seek employers that take time to consider the needs and expectations of our generation, and understand where we are coming from. In return for understanding, we will pour our hearts and souls into our work, because time is too short to not give your 110% all the time.

A couple of months from now I will officially step out of school and step into the corporate world. As an intern at TeamAsia, I saw firsthand how millennials like myself thrive in a workplace. And as I seek to make my mark, I hope I find a good balance of these 10 things at the company I am lucky enough to be a part of:

Culture

Millennial or not, most employees would find an eight-hour shift exhausting. However, workplace culture can always either improve or aggravate our attitude towards work, especially when the load is heavy. A positive work environment promotes workplace collaboration, so whether even if work turns into 12-hour shift, that positive attitude towards achieving a common goal makes it all worthwhile. Personally, I can be thoroughly motivated by a workplace culture I see myself comfortable in, where I can work effectively, either individually or with a team.

The TeamAsia culture—young and vibrant.

Inclusivity

As someone who supports equal rights, I would consider the inclusivity of a company before I apply for a job. It is important to me that the employer I will work for supports the same values I do. I would consider it my pride to have the opportunity to work in a company that accepts their employees regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or religion, and sees applicants for their skills and determination to get the job.

Photo from imgflip.com

Personal Development

Aside from skill development, I also look for companies that will not only train me for the job, but will also let me expand my horizons and discover new things about myself. I want a company that will provide me plenty of room for improvement, both in my skills and personality, by allowing me to be myself and by addressing my failures and mistakes in a way that will keep me motivated to do better next time.

I gained new insights on the e-commerce industry when I was chosen to join the UREKA Forum team.

Innovation

Innovation widens my creativity, allowing me to experiment on new ideas and think of new concepts to execute my work. I prefer a working environment that will constantly encourage me to challenge the norms, and will guide me to discover and explore new opportunities in my line of work.

My supervisor allowed me to draft some of the team’s writing projects. I got to ask questions and I received immediate feedback on my drafts from the Editorial Manager and the Content Director, which inspired me to write thoughtfully and purposefully. After each exercise, I had a better grasp of what it takes to write for an agency (and it definitely was not easy–kudos to all creative agency people, I am in awe).

Benefits

To be honest, although the paycheck is one of the main things to consider, I also value the benefits I will gain from the companies I will apply to. If I will be given similar compensation packages by two different companies, I would prefer the company with better benefits, good work-life balance, leadership opportunities, and flexible working conditions rather than the company with a higher pay. For me, a company that offers employee perks such as health, dental, retirement, and financial spending plans benefits, is definitely one to consider.

Interning at TeamAsia allowed me to experience the daily grind at an IMC agency. TeamAsians are fun and laidback but their work calls for whiplash speed and it’s here that I’ve seen how creative people are able to draw inspiration from everything — whether it be the people around them, their surroundings, or the big wide world of the internet (hah!) but in the end it’s passion (and for editorial — thorough research) that brings everything together.

Passion

Companies that show how passionate they are for their craft and at the same time support the interests of their employees are surely on my list of target companies. I believe that this is the kind of passion that drives an organization’s success. I would like to be part of a company where there is intentional support from the whole organization to work towards a common goal and where I can pursue my interests.

On the right is the breathtaking view from the TeamAsia pantry–which is inspiration in itself. I was lucky enough to have worked with people who are passionate about what they do. TeamAsia is filled with millennials like me but everyone works to be at the top of their game and I’d like to be just like that in my career.

Challenge

Like most people in the corporate world, I follow the path that leads to the acquisition and enhancement of skill and talent. However, I am looking for something more than that. I would like to work in a company that would not only allow me to use my God-given gifts, but will also challenge my abilities. I look forward to what’s in store for me, and I am excited to be able do the things I never thought I can for me to reach my fullest potential when it comes to my field of work.

TeamAsia’s Internship Program required that I create and present a communications plan for the Director of Content and representatives from Public Relations, Media Relations, and Editorial team to assess and evaluate afterwards. I was a little intimidated coming into it but as I got to work alongside the Content team daily, I was very excited to present when it came to my final day at TeamAsia.

Stability

Financial stability is one of the reasons why people look for jobs. They want to be able to provide for their own and their family’s needs without having to deal with crises. I am no exception to this. In this world where it is considered lucky for one to not have to fear for his/her tenure to be cut in a few months, I persistently search for companies that offer job security.

Photo from weknowmemes.com

Corporate Social Responsibility

People who search for jobs now have more access to a company’s background because of the internet, compared to how it used to be before the digital age. I leverage on this to thoroughly get to know prospective companies and to make sure that my values are aligned with the values of the company I will apply to. One of the indicators of a company’s values is their CSR program. Through this, I am able to determine what the company cares about, allowing me to assess its relevance to me.

Every year, TeamAsians give shoeboxes filled with school supplies to students through their CSR program, My Dream in a Shoebox. Everyone contributes in preparing these gifts and there are volunteers who join the gift giving days.

Fun!

Like my peers, I constantly look for fun and adventure wherever I go—yes, I look for it even in the workplace. Although the traditional atmosphere of a typical office is not a stranger to me, I still expect to have fun every once in a while, even amid busy and tiring work days. Whether the company hosts fun office games or planned-out company outings, any activity will surely fill my tank!

My internship in TeamAsia also gave me new friends who made work more fun!

I may have a lot of expectations when it comes to my employment experience, but whether I am embarking on my first job or the fifth, I am always after this one goal: to work for a company where I can serve my purpose and make an impact.

After my two months of internship at TeamAsia, I can say that I am better prepared to take on the challenges in my next journey as part of the corporate world.

A day in the life of a PR girl

by: Florence Joy dela Cruz, Senior PR Associate

Public relations can be a tiring job. Creating PR plans, scheduling media interviews, and making sure the brands we handle enjoy a good reputation can take its toll, but it can be extremely rewarding. PR is basically storytelling, and I enjoy creating wonderful stories and experiences for our brands. One of the brands I handle is Google, and one of the things I look forward to is YouTube FanFest!

The YouTube FanFest, or YTFF, is a live event featuring international and local YouTube creators. The event aims to create opportunities for YT creators, fans, and the media to find new ways to connect with their audiences. It began last year when a tweet #BringYouTubersToManila trended worldwide, and now it’s back for its second year!

I was nervous at first to meet these internet sensations, but after handling them last year, it became easier this year. We went to interviews with them and got to know them on a personal level. We also became friends with their managers. Well, sort of! My personal favorite is the a cappella group The Filharmonic, who I watched at The Sing-off, a singing competition featuring a cappella groups. I was so starstruck that I was lost for words when I met them for the first time. We even taught them Filipino words!

Fans were also excited to meet them. They got to interact with the YouTube creators at the YTFF Meet and Greet, where many fans came out crying because they met their idols. To top if off, the YTFF Night was pure entertainment. Seeing these creators perform on stage felt like we were stage parents waiting for our kids to come out and perform! It was a great honor to see everyone having fun by watching their favorite creators on stage.

Doing the PR for one of Google’s biggest events is tiring. Imagine waking up as early as 1am and staying up late to take care of international YouTube creators for several days in a row. But it was all worth it. Most importantly, I am doing what I love: telling the world about my brand.

Check out some of our behind-the-scenes photos below:

No rest for the weary. Team call time is at 1am, but we’re still looking fresh. #TeamNoSleep #AirportWelcome

Sneaky fangirl. Day 1 of media interviews and I’m trying to get them all for a phoro. Look! Niko’s smiling!

One down, two more to go! The first of three interviews scheduled for the day. Bring it on! #Day2ofMediaInterviews

Lucy shot! Our last chance to get a group picture with the boys. Look at Kuya Mike, the bodyguard, smiling at the back!

Downtime with these three. While waiting for the next interview, the team had a chance to rest for a while at Nobu Hotel. Fancy!

Ibang level na sila! Here are Vince and Steph posting for a photo with Gab Valenciano and Tanner Patrick after their Rappler interview. (Photo courtesy of Rappler.com)

Lucky Shor Number 2! Mikey, Alex, and Wengie are just some of the YouTube creators we got to know during the YTFF. They’re really fun to be with!

It’s not over yet! The day’s not over yet as we had to go to and check out the venue.

A selfie a day takes the bad vibes away. Nobody can tell that we haven’t got enough sleep. Look at us! All smiles and ready for this day’s battle! #BringItOn

Registration tradition. I take photos of the media registration table before the event starts every time. It’s me saying “Hello! Bukas na po ang ‘tindahan’.”

Husshhhh! Press conference is ongoing! We’re a bit jampacked today. It it just me or everyone’s really excited to ask questions?

Side by side interviews with the creators. The Filharmonice boys with Tanner Patrick during the excluisive interview with the Philippine Star anf Gist magazine. Other exclusive interviews were with Wengie with Wengie with Cosmo.ph, Tyler Ward and Alex Wassabi with BusinessWorld but they are in different rooms.

A girl should never forget her birthday. And oh, yeah. It was my birthday two weeks ago. I almost forgot about it!

Post presscon group picture. Yay! Press conference is done! One down!

Sneakers=Lifesaver During events, sneakers are my most reliable friends. They are comfortable and easy to wear. I can run around the whole day with these bffs on!

Off to the next venue! Nobu Hotel to the World Trade Center? Easy peasy!

Awww. Dog. While the fans are doing Meet and Greet with YouTube creators, here I am petting this adorable Labrador. Look at that face. Isn’t he cute?

#YTFFManila2016 And the show starts in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1!

Always ‘selfie’ ready! In between breaks, the team never forgets to smile when there’s a camera in front.

PR + Media Represent! My good friend (and schoolmate… and PR ‘Major-mate’), Vberni, is in awe of YTFF. It’s his first time and he’s looking forward to the next ones!

Fan mode ON! Connor Franta walks in and we’re like “WAAAAAAAAAAAH!”

It’s a wrap! What a show! That, my friends, is YouTube Fanfest!

Post event debriefing. Cramped in a little room labeled “Secretariat”, we’re still in high spirits after the event.

YTFF Ninjas. Running back and forth WTC is no joke but we don’t look tired at all! Cheers to another successful event! See you at the Next FanFest!

geTAway 2016

by Monette Hamlin, TeamAsia President and Founder

It’s been a yearly tradition for our TeamAsia family to have a summer outing. It’s a time to stop and smell the roses, or better yet, to stop the frantic pace of work, get out in the sun and play, laugh and get to know each other better outside of work.

geTAway 2016 1

Last year, Bea and I could not join because we had to go to Bangladesh, so this year, we were determined not to miss the fun. Bea joined the group in the bus, and I followed with Niccolo as I had to give a talk on The Business of Meetings, Conventions and Conferences to the Philippine Council of Association Executives (PCAEE).

This time around, we went to Stilts in Calatagan, Batangas. This is a picturesque beach resort with houses built on stilts. Our family was assigned to Wishes, the stilt house closest to the beach. The house is comfortable and airconditioned with a wrap-around veranda. My favorite spot is the hammock. I love the sayings painted on wood scattered around the resort.

geTAway 2016 2

This trip, the committee decided to lessen the activities to allow as much chillin’ time as possible. The only challenge posed to the five teams was to create a one-take music video at Stilts that best presented the Kalma vibe wearing their team caps.

Bea, Niccolo, Denise and I comprised the board of judges, and we were all laughing out loud watching the videos prepared by the Yellow Bright, Lively Lime, Passion Red, Big Green and Inspire Blue teams. Even the White team committee got into the act and had their own.

Inspire Blue won hands down with Levon Frilles, recovering from his traumatic week, cavorted with gusto as he pretended to talk to me on his mobile phone while the rest of the team were relaxing. Next was Yellow Bright with Anna Limon swaying to the music as her wheelchair was pushed by Maricel Salialam, and Darwin Santiago danced while draped on the table. Coming in third was Big Green with macho men Leo Halili and Meynard Landrito dressed in bikinis sashayed along the stilts carrying their big green umbrellas. Lively Lime, Passion Red and White all did admirably as well.

geTAway 2016 3

As we do monthly, we sang for the birthday celebrants as they held their individual cupcakes. Our April celebrants were Bea, Zyra, Francis and Junel.

And then came the initiation of the newbies, where they were given the choice of performing or butt spelling their name. Meynard gamely sang striking a pose. The rest of the newbies — Emerson from Accounting, Monica from Accounts, Mazee from Telemarketing and Dezza from Media Relations — opted for the butt spell. Dezza had everyone dazzled with her limber rendition of the butt spell, prompting Anna’s thought bubble of ‘hmm, cursive’ while Bea’s was ‘on point, with a squiggle.’

geTAway 2016 4

After dinner, everyone settled on just having fun, jamming, playing beer pong, swimming, chatting, and drinking. The mommies in the group put their children to bed. Since I hardly had any sleep the night before and wasn’t allowed to drink any alcohol, I went off to bed early.

The next day during breakfast, stories abounded on who passed out, who fell into the pool, who won the beer pong, who had a hangover, and so on. We transferred to the pool to spend the rest of the morning swimming and relaxing.

Soon it was time to leave and bid Stilts adieu, but not before having a TeamAsia family picture. Kudos to the organizing committee!

Woman’s edge

The female advantage at work

By Karen Balce, Program Operations Manager

I remember working for a fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company and telling myself, “I thought this is my dream job, but it’s not, and I’m glad I figured it out while I’m still young.” I looked back and checked what I enjoyed the most during my brand marketing role, and I realized it was doing events. And like it was meant to be, a good friend of mine told me about TeamAsia and told me I should apply. After almost three years, I’m still here doing events for the company.
I started like how most people in the team began: doing smaller roles, assisting project managers, learning the tricks, and familiarizing myself with the job and the scope of work. It was all somehow new to me but I agree it was a learning process. I remember my first project was not the grandest event, but the fulfillment of finishing an event, regardless of its size, is the same to me.

With the Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF) team at the Social Enterprise Conference in 2014

In my opinion, most of my events were fairly challenging. They were all unique, and they each had their own challenges I had to conquer. My favorite projects were the toughest ones because they pushed my capabilities, my limits, and my skills. I believe that’s how I progressed and grew in this industry.

In events, there are certain skill sets that make being a woman an advantage. Traits such as patience, creativity, being a perfectionist, being attentive to details, and being able to handle emotional stress are usually associated with women and have helped me in my projects. But the women in our department need to be ready to get the job done by all means, even if it means carrying heavy items, running around during events, and being buddies with suppliers. In case you’re wondering, the girls at TeamAsia are up for it.

With Ma’am Monette at the 2014 TeamAsia Christmas Party

The perfect example of a well-rounded woman in TeamAsia is Ma’am Monette. I often find myself wondering how she excels in all her roles as mother, boss, daughter, and friend. When I see her, I ask myself, how does she maximize the 24 hours in a day? How does she get everything done? How does she make everyone love her?

Celebrating National Women’s Month empowers the women in the country that we now live in a society that believes that women are equal to men in all aspects. There is no more gender discrimination and both men and women deserve equal opportunities. And this Women’s Month, I would like to encourage everyone to praise and give recognition to these women who exceed expectations, who balance their work life and home life, and who take care of their family both at home and in the office. Whatever men can do, women can do it, too. Sometimes even better.

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