“In this world, some are blessed with more while some are not that fortunate. One of my purposes in this life is I would like to take every opportunity that I can to help and share to others that needed the most.” – Apple Angeles
In the current pandemic situation, there are a lot of our countrymen that are out of jobs, helpless and have nothing to eat. We saw the mushrooming of community pantries throughout the country where those who have more share to those who have less.
For Maria Estela Angeles, or Apple as she is fondly called by those who know her, finds a sense of fulfillment by helping others. When almost everyone has shut their doors to others in fear of the virus, Apple chose to get deeply involved not just by donating but helping out her co-members physically during the program.
She did this in a recently concluded Community Outreach Initiative in their area organized by the Brookside Hills Subdivision Areas 4 and 5 Trustees in Cainta, Rizal.
It benefitted more than 300 people, including the Barangay Sweepers, Barangay Personnel, Garbage Collectors, and Tricycle Drivers. For her, this somehow fulfills her need to go out and meet new people. The best part is she doesn’t only reduce stress but also boosts her happiness and those around her.
Apple mentioned that this is not her first time getting involved in outreach programs as she used to sponsor, donate goods or money, but clarifies she never got the chance to participate physically.
“This is the first time I participated physically since I am afraid that I might get the virus. I tend not to join and just donate to the Community Outreach Programs here in our village. But the other side of me is telling otherwise. Finally, I decided to join and help distribute the Malasakit Packages. Ang maririnig mo lang ay “Salamat po, God Bless”, “Maraming Salamat po sa Inyo”, “Thank you, hulog kayo ng langit. And ‘yung smile sa eyes nila iba talaga. Kahit na sobrang pagod ako kakabuhat, nawala lahat yun.
A simple smile or a simple thank you is just what Apple needs to complete her day. It is exhausting but at the end it is truly rewarding for her.
At work, Apple is a Senior Manager for Export Sales and double-hat as a Marketing Manager of Roxas Sigma Agriventures, Inc. She handles several clients from local and international, ensuring that their business requirements are met even in the midst of the raging pandemic situation.
Currently, Apple enjoys biking with her kids around their village. “One way to combat work stress is exercise. Nare-relax din ang body and mind ko doing all these activities.” She adds that she sleeps better, which helps her feel more in control and happier throughout the day.
Finding purpose at a time when everyone is faced with serious challenges is something most of our countrymen are known for and Apple proves that even in the midst of a global pandemic, she can be of help not only to her family but to others too. She handles her work well while juggling personal activities on a work-from-home set-up and even manages to participate in activities that contribute to her physical, mental, and emotional wellness.
Roxas Sigma Agriventures, Inc. is proud of all its employees and supports them on their journey to attain a productive work life while ensuring they have enough time to rest and spend time with people and things that make them happy. We will continue with one of our inspiring missions to build a positive company culture for our people.