Gel Barrientos is a writer with a strong background in digital advertising and content strategy. She consumes K-content on a daily basis and loves to travel, eat, and play tennis.

People are constructing meaningful collectives 

World Builders

The need-it-now mentality has become the norm

Compulsive Convenience

People are operating with a heightened perception of value

Critical Spenders

Luningning Orna is a small business entrepreneur who owns a sari-sari (literally, ‘variety’) store in the countryside. She started her business 30 years ago, selling essential goods to her neighbours and navigating the Philippines’ economic highs and lows with her small business.

Miguel Gonzalez is an account manager who handles an FMCG brand consisting of condiments and kitchen essentials. His work includes creating marketing campaigns that drive sales for these brands while helping them stay relevant to the Filipino consumer.

Philippines

Shopping

Entrepreneurship and freelancers

Snacks and desserts

General food

Eating and Drinking

Money

Interview with Luningning Orna conducted by the author

Manila Bulletin

Inquirer

Philippine News Agency

Adobo Magazine

Mega Prime Foods Inc

Interview with Miguel Gonzalez conducted by the author

Republic Asia

Asia Food Beverages

Retail Asia

Philstar

Rappler

Malaya Business Insight

‘Sari-sari’ (literally, ‘variety’) stores remain staples in Filipino neighbourhoods despite the rise of convenience stores. They balance affordability and accessibility with modernisation and adapt to changing needs by providing reasonably priced essential goods, making them a pillar in the country.