26/07/2026
"You meet people for a purpose."
This powerful truth hit me today in the most unexpected way. As GM of MNG, I am constantly reminded that true collaboration is the absolute key to driving innovation and community growth.
During lunch today with Chairman Abang Mabulo and Chef Norita Martinez Badong. the Chairman asked if we had ever met the original founder of MNG. We both said no. Fast forward; when we arrive at the venue, that’s when he revealed an incredible coincidence: the president of the cooperative we were visiting shared the exact same name as our founder—Dante Adan.
For me, this amazing sign was proof that we are being guided, and it gave me the absolute certainty to trust the process. This unforgettable moment actually capped off a beautifully unplanned day. It started with a meeting in Bombon. Afterward, Chef and I spontaneously decided to join Chairman Abang on his trip to Calabanga to support the Boronyog Farmers and Workers Organization.
What was meant to be a simple listening visit quickly turned into a powerhouse brainstorming session. Backed by Chairman Abang’s leadership, Chef shared her rich experience as one of the pioneer of food product developer in Bicol Region. Meanwhile, I focused on bridging their local needs with MNG’s core advocacy for innovation and cooperative collaboration.
We went to support another community, but we left with a renewed sense of purpose and a reminder that when you open yourself up to collaboration, the universe aligns perfectly to show you that you are right where you need to be.
