October 22, 2024 — Manila Central University hosted an enlightening Financial Literacy Seminar held in the 4th Floor Multi-Purpose Hall, LRC Building. The event, emceed by Janna Victoria Villafuerte and John Ricardo Flores, aimed to equip students with essential financial knowledge and skills for their future.

In partnership with Sonic Labs, the workshop brought together esteemed gaming partners Tribally and Wildforest. Their involvement enriched the program, showcasing the diverse applications of blockchain in the gaming industry. Through these partnerships, participants gained insights into how blockchain can revolutionize gaming, digital ownership, and community engagement.

As students entered the venue, they were greeted with enthusiasm and excitement. Upon registration, attendees were encouraged to participate in the Bitskwela Gleam Raffle. This interactive element not only fostered engagement but also expanded awareness of Bitskwela’s mission and future endeavors. Participants signed up by following social media accounts, sharing event posts, and tagging friends, making the event a truly collaborative experience.

Insightful Discussions from Financial Experts

The first speaker, Mr. Miguel Salvador, an Executive Financial Advisor from PNB, took the stage at 1:35 PM. He shared valuable insights on the topic "You Invest in You: Developing Our Financial Fitness." His engaging presentation inspired participants to take charge of their financial well-being.

Following this, Ms. Mengs De Guzman, also an Executive Financial Advisor from PNB, spoke about “PNB Savings ATM with Zero Maintaining Balance for Life!” from 2:05 PM to 2:30 PM. Her discussion highlighted practical savings solutions that cater to students' needs.

Engaging Activities 

To energize the crowd, an ice breaker titled "Last Man Standing" was held from 2:45 PM to 2:55 PM. This fun activity provided a lighthearted moment before diving into the next session.

At 2:55 PM, the seminar welcomed Mr. Jiro Reyes, the CEO of Bitskwela, as the guest speaker. He delivered an informative talk on “Introduction to Blockchain and Web3 Career Opportunities,” along with the Basics of Cryptocurrency and Financial Literacy in Web3. His session not only educated participants on emerging technologies but also opened their minds to new career possibilities.

Following this, Andrea Pilapil took the stage to discuss cryptocurrency. She provided a foundation on digital currencies, focusing on their origins, functionalities, and the technological underpinnings of transactions. With practical advice on securely managing cryptocurrencies, Andrea equipped participants with essential knowledge for navigating this complex landscape.

A Step Towards Financial Empowerment

The Financial Literacy Seminar was a resounding success, offering students vital knowledge and skills to navigate their financial futures. By teaming up with organizations like PNB and Bitskwela, the university showed its commitment to helping students through education and useful resources. As participants left with new ideas and tools, they moved closer to becoming financially independent and successful.

As the workshop wrapped up, excitement buzzed in the air as the Gleam Raffle winners were announced. Participants cheered as they learned about the prizes, which included branded merchandise and cryptocurrency giveaways. This final moment not only brought everyone together but also gave attendees memorable experiences and rewards for their participation.