by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 2, 2025 | Stories
On May 20, 2025, I created an account on Letterlux, but I was still undecided about whether I should dip my toes into writing fiction. So, I pondered … for a couple of weeks. I kept stopping to think: Do I have a story in my head that’s worth writing?
In case you didn’t know, I’m a reader, editor, and reviewer—so you can just imagine how self-critical I must be.
At first, I tried other apps like Goodnovel and Dreame, but neither panned out. With one, a confusing conversation with a company rep left me frustrated (I won’t get into the details), while the other said my story wasn’t a good fit for the platform. That one, I actually understood—because I knew going in that the story didn’t follow any of the established tropes.
Then on June 11, 2025, I woke up with a brand-new story doing its best to burst out of my head. It was relentless, like a puppy trying its darnedest to get my attention. It forced me to sit up, open Word, and start typing—a YA/Teen story blending shifter romance and tech/gaming. Within a few hours, I had eight or ten chapters written. The words just kept coming!
That made me wonder: Where would be the best place to publish this?
I asked around. Friends who’ve published on reading platforms—and even on Kindle and paperback—shared their insights. Some of what they said, I’d already seen echoed on social media by other authors.
In the end, I narrowed it down to two platforms: Inkitt and Letterlux.
Inkitt is user-friendly and accepted my story quickly. However, it’s subscription-based (like Ream Stories), so unless I already have a solid following, it’s hard to know what to charge. On the upside, if my story performs well, it might end up on Galatea.
Letterlux, meanwhile, is an umbrella company that distributes to several reading apps. Self-promotion might be trickier once I sign a contract, but the good news is that I won’t have to apply to each app individually.
Even though Letterlux seems a bit more complex, I’m feeling optimistic. I applied for a contract on June 11, once I hit the 5,000-word minimum. On June 16, I received an encouraging message after their initial review. The next milestone is at 30,000 words.
On June 30, I received this system notification:
Good job on writing a longer story! We’ll review your story as soon as possible, and you’ll be notified when the result comes out. If your story passes our review, we’re more than happy to sign a contract with you! Please stay tuned!
I’ll be honest—I had already reached 30k+ words a few days earlier, but I didn’t want to stress myself out. So, I scheduled daily chapter releases. I guess you could say I “banked” chapters, just in case my creative well runs dry in the future.
To date, I’ve written 34 chapters for Call Me Alpha! on Letterlux. Here’s hoping the book gets signed soon, because that would be just the push I need to keep the momentum going. ✨
If you’re curious about the story or have tips on your own publishing journey, I’d love to hear from you!
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jun 12, 2025 | Business
Robert Conrad Gonzales
Robert Conrad Gonzales, the Chief People Officer of GCash, has been named one of this year’s 100 Most Influential HR Leaders in Southeast Asia. This annual recognition honors top HR executives who have made significant contributions to leadership, innovation, and transformation in the HR industry.
Recipients of this prestigious citation are chosen based on their social media influence, engagement levels, industry awards, community impact, thought leadership, and innovative HR practices. Additionally, the impact of HR initiatives on revenue growth and overall market influence is also considered.
Gonzales believes that artificial intelligence (AI) is meant to enhance employee productivity rather than replace them. As the highest-ranking Human Resources (HR) officer at GCash, Gonzales emphasizes the company’s steadfast commitment to prioritizing people in the era of automation. GCash is the leading finance app in the Philippines and the largest cashless ecosystem, recognized as an innovative fintech company that has received several accolades for being one of the best companies to work for.
“HR should champion automation and lead in adapting to technology, including AI, because our people need it, our employees rely on it,” said Gonzales. “If we do this right, our people will become more productive and serve our customers even better. Invest in people, champion leadership development, and embrace innovation. The future belongs to organizations that prioritize their people as their greatest asset.”
Gonzales was recognized for his contributions to the HR landscape when he received an award during the recently held Future Forward Philippines 2025, organized by The Economic Times, the second most widely read English-language business daily after The Wall Street Journal.
Driving business transformation or becoming obsolete in the age of AI?
During the whole day of the event, Gonzales was in the panel discussion titled ‘The Great Debate of HR at a Crossroads: Driving Business Transformation or Becoming Obsolete in the Age of AI?’ He was joined by other HR icons, including Cebu Pacific Air’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Felix Dan Lopez; Globe Telecom Inc.’s Chief Human Resource Officer, Renato Manuel Jiao; and Yasmin Taj, features editor of ETHRWorld/ETEducation, who served as the moderator.
Looking to the future, Gonzales sees artificial intelligence as a game-changer in transforming how organizations approach leadership development. “AI-powered talent identification and predictive analytics will revolutionize how we discover and grow high-potential leaders,” he said. “We’re also leaning into personalized, AI-driven learning paths that adapt to each employee’s growth trajectory because in a market that changes overnight, static development models just don’t cut it.”
GCash is already putting these innovations to work. “We’re expanding our use of AI-driven career development tools and enhancing our leadership programs with real-world business simulations,” Gonzales shared. “This enables us to gauge better readiness, drive engagement, and close skill gaps faster than ever.”
GCash is measuring the effectiveness of its leadership transitions by tracking rates of leadership changes, the retention of high-potential talent, and the business performance following these transitions. To refine its strategies and ensure succession pipelines are prepared for the future, continuous feedback loops and engagement surveys are employed.
Putting people first in an AI-powered workplace
Gonzales stated that GCash’s AI initiatives originate from a strong commitment to both employee well-being and operational excellence. He noted that AI not only enhances customer experience but also contributes to employee happiness by improving their welfare.
“We have a strong commitment to keep our people happy and engaged,” Gonzales said. “Many of our AI innovations are driven by employee needs. For example, team members want faster and more accurate processing of benefits and allowances. That’s why we developed an AI-powered tool called AGA.”
AGA, which stands for Alagang GCash Assistant, is a Gen AI-powered tool that automates and streamlines the processing of employee benefits. From wellness allowances to flexible benefits processing, AGA enables faster and error-free transactions.
Gonzales leaves HR leaders with a pointed message: “HR is no longer a support function but rather a strategic driver of growth. Invest in people. Champion leadership development and embrace innovation in workforce planning. The organizations that do this will be the ones leading tomorrow.”
For more information, visit www.gcash.com.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jun 10, 2025 | Food & Beverage
This June, The Manila Hotel invites guests to enjoy a range of memorable dining experiences, including lavish buffets, elegant set menus, seasonal promotions, and exclusive discounts.
Festive Feasts at Café Ilang-Ilang
Celebrate two special holidays at Café Ilang-Ilang: Philippine Independence Day on June 12 and Manila Day on June 24. Enjoy an enhanced Filipino buffet featuring traditional favorites that pay homage to the country’s rich culinary heritage. Regular buffet rates apply.
Additionally, join us for Father’s Day on June 15, where you can indulge in a global culinary spread perfect for the whole family. Dine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and fathers celebrating on this day will receive complimentary sugar cookies as a token of appreciation. Regular buffet rates apply.
Champagne Room’s June Highlights
Create lasting memories this Father’s Day with a specially curated set menu available from June 13 to 15. Priced at ₱5,980 nett per set, this dining experience includes:
- Parma Ham & Burrata Cheese
- Lobster Bisque
- Oven Roasted Sea Bass on Zucchini Risotto
- Mango Sorbet
- Grilled Black Angus Rib Eye
- Baked Alaska Terrine
Additionally, the meal is complemented with macarons, your choice of coffee or tea, and paired with two glasses of Cuvée sparkling wine. This offer is valid for tables of four to ten guests. Reservations are recommended.
Throughout June, cool down with refreshing mint-infused cocktails at the Champagne Room. Choose from revitalizing options such as Mint Julep, Mojito, or Southside, each priced at ₱420 nett per glass.
June Delights at the Lobby Lounge and Tap Room
Celebrate national pride with classic Filipino flavors at the Lobby Lounge and Tap Room! From June 12 to 24, between 12:00 noon and 6:00 PM, guests can enjoy 50% off selected dishes, including Sinigang, Adobo, Kare-Kare, and more. This offer is valid for a minimum of two and a maximum of four orders per table. Terms and conditions apply.
From June 9 to 16, fathers can enjoy a complimentary glass of draft beer with every order of the U.S. Beef Burger, available from 12:00 noon to 6:00 PM. Terms and conditions apply.
Warm up during the rainy season with a comforting bowl of Laksa, a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for gloomy days. It will be available from June 15 to 30, between 11:00 AM and 11:00 PM.
In-Room Dining Set Menu
For guests who desire a more private and intimate dining experience, The Manila Hotel offers a special in-room dining set menu for two. Priced at a discounted rate of ₱4,980 nett (regularly ₱6,225), this exclusive dining offer includes the following highlights:
- Pacific Rim Caesar Salad
- Baked Oyster with Herb Butter Crust
- Surf and Turf
- Spanish Idiazabal Cheese
- Fresh Fruit Platter
- Pralines and Macarons
- Bread and Butter
- A bottle of Rothbury Estate Cuvée Sparkling Wine
This offer is available throughout June from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Please note that blackout dates, terms, and conditions apply.
Experience meaningful celebrations and unforgettable dining at The Manila Hotel throughout the month. For inquiries and reservations, please call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, email re************@************el.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is situated next to Kilometer Zero (0), the point where the City of Manila begins. It is within walking distance of well-known landmarks, including Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the National Museum. Renowned for its rich history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel has been the preferred choice for distinguished guests since its establishment in 1912.
The hotel boasts over 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three ballrooms, providing a range of venues for any event. Guests can indulge in five-star relaxation and wellness experiences at the Manila Hotel Spa, enjoy the adult and children’s pools, and stay active at the Manila Hotel Health Club.
The hotel is also home to the Heritage Museum, which showcases priceless artifacts and narrates its illustrious past. Additionally, it features an art gallery offering a glimpse into contemporary art through the perspectives of various artists.
Dining options at The Manila Hotel include six unique outlets, each providing a distinctive culinary experience:
- Café Ilang-Ilang: A favorite for its extensive selection of international buffet delights.
- Champagne Room: Renowned for its Old European-style fine dining, this is considered the most romantic dining room in Manila, offering exquisite European cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Tap Room: An Old English pub-inspired venue, perfect for enjoying an evening of live music.
- Lobby Lounge: Ideal for casual dining, aperitifs, post-dinner nightcaps, or relaxed meetings.
- Red Jade: A fine dining restaurant specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine.
- Delicatessen: Offers the hotel’s signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.
The Manila Hotel promises a truly memorable experience with its exceptional amenities and services.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Apr 12, 2025 | Book Reviews
I usually shy away from stories with ridiculously long titles, such as
“My Husband Wants an Open Marriage” by Elysian Sparrow. The reason is that these stories often tend to be predictable, formulaic, and frequently written by young authors whose first language is not English, which can be evident in the text. At times, I get the impression that the manuscripts have been machine-translated, as the English can be quite poor.
“My Husband Wants an Open Marriage” by Elysian Sparrow surprised me with its well-written narrative. The story follows a familiar formula: Ryan and Julie O’Brien have been married for several years but are unable to conceive. A significant event causes a rift in their relationship. In their case, the issue arises from their struggles to have a child, prompting Ryan to propose the idea of an open relationship. However, what he truly means is that he wants the freedom to explore outside their marriage, while Julie cannot.
Ryan is openly having an affair with his secretary, Emily. He even goes so far as to bring her to their home, forcing Julie out of her bedroom and effectively ending her role as Mrs. O’Brien. Meanwhile, Julie endures the pain and humiliation of working in the company where her husband is the CEO, all while managing the Marketing Department. One night, she decides to go to a bar to drown her sorrows. There, she meets Luke, who offers to be her fake boyfriend whenever she needs one. This is where the story starts to become interesting.
I found this story on Goodnovel, but I saw it on other reading apps as well. As is my wont, when I find myself engaged after a few chapters, I turn to Amazon and check if the story is available on Kindle. And, YES, it is there! Woohoo! “My Husband Wants an Open Marriage” by Elysian Sparrow is divided into three books on Amazon Kindle and costs $12.97— that is LOADS cheaper than on the reading apps. Click here for Book 1, Book 2, and Book 3 of this story on Amazon Kindle.
38 chapters in and I still love it! So far, it isn’t as predictable as I thought it would be and I love it! I think you will enjoy this billionaire romance, too. And like me, you might fall for Luke as well.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Apr 5, 2025 | Advocacy
The time, effort, and dedication required to train for a race or marathon make crossing the finish line incredibly rewarding for many runners. Similarly, creating a greener, more sustainable future demands a collective commitment of the same magnitude.
The first-ever GCash Eco Run transformed the streets of Ayala Avenue in Makati into a platform for this eco-movement. Over 12,000 eco-runners laced up their shoes—not just to achieve personal records but to make a lasting impact on the environment. Thanks to the support of event sponsors and sustainability partners, this milestone initiative has already resulted in the planting of 76,000 trees across 11 hectares in the Negros region, showcasing the powerful effects of our collective actions.
A race that goes beyond the finish line
In support of the South Negros Reforestation Initiative, which is a long-standing partnership between Silliman University and GCash, each sign-up for the GCash Eco Run contributed to the planting of a grey stilted mangrove tree in Negros Occidental. GCash doubled its commitment by pledging an additional tree for every participant. As a result, the runners contributed to the planting of a total of 24,000 new trees.
Grey stilted mangroves play a vital role in environmental conservation. They help mitigate the impacts of extreme weather, sequester carbon, and provide habitats for marine life. Consequently, mangrove forests are among the most effective natural ecosystems for carbon storage today, making them a crucial asset in the fight against climate change.
In line with its commitment to using technology for good, the GCash Eco Run served as a platform to raise awareness about sustainable living. The event brought together partner organizations and eco-conscious brands to share their initiatives and inspire collective action.
Various organizations championing different sustainability causes participated in the event. For example, Berdeng Kalaw collects paper and metal for recycling, while Caritas Manila converts clothing donations into funds for scholarships. Zolo specializes in reselling and recycling e-waste, and Aling Tindera focuses on gathering plastic waste for recycling.
Attendees had the opportunity to explore products from partner eco-merchants including Cut the Craft, Bukid ni Bogs, Wonderhome Naturals, Eco Shift, and Commune. They also received GCash VISA cards made from 100% recycled plastic.
GCash facilitates positive change by connecting partners with Silliman University, turning commitments into tangible action. With the support of eight collaborating companies for a greener future, a total of 52,000 trees will be planted in Negros, in addition to the 24,000 trees planted by the eco runners.
Nuvali Run Club members joined the 10KM race of the GCash Eco Run
Runners gather at the starting line of the first-ever GCash Eco Run, taking strides for sustainability and mangrove restoration–planting over 76,000 trees in the Negros region.
Continue taking steps for the environment with GForest
GCash is committed to making sustainable living easier and more accessible for every Filipino. Through its GForest initiative, users earn green energy points with every transaction on the GCash app, whether it’s cashing in, sending money, paying bills, buying load, or even taking 20,000 steps a day. These points can be redeemed to plant virtual trees and contribute to a greener future.
In collaboration with various partner organizations, GCash transforms these virtual trees into real ones planted in key areas across the country. This demonstrates how GForest serves as a platform for technology that promotes positive change.
“Much like how GForest turns virtual trees into actual ones, the GCash Eco Run brings together our community of Green Heroes, driven by a shared purpose to create real-world impact—one step, one tree, and one action at a time,” said CJ Alegre, GCash Head of Sustainability.
The largest digital eco-movement is growing even bigger. Every step we take, every action we make, and every tree we plant brings us closer to a greener future. Become a green hero today by signing up on the GForest feature in your GCash app dashboard.
The GCash Eco Run is proudly supported by corporate partners who have also committed to planting trees, including IKEA Philippines, Globe At Home, Pay & Go, and eTap Solutions. This initiative enhances Silliman University’s efforts in mangrove reforestation.
About GCash
GCash is the leading finance super app in the Philippines. Through the GCash app, users can easily perform various financial transactions, such as purchasing prepaid airtime, paying bills through a network of partner billers nationwide, and sending or receiving money anywhere in the Philippines, even to other bank accounts. Users can also shop from over 6 million partner merchants and social sellers. Additionally, GCash provides access to savings, credit, loans, insurance, and investment opportunities, all from the convenience of their smartphones.
The mobile wallet operations of GCash are managed by G-Xchange, Inc. (GXI), which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mynt— the first and only “duacorn” in the Philippines.
GCash is a strong advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially focusing on SDGs 5, 8, 10, and 13. These goals promote safety and security, financial inclusion, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as urgent action to combat climate change and its effects.
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