Filipinos have an enterprising mindset – we have the drive and we work hard. It’s evident in the numerous Pinoy businesses and “rakets” across the archipelago (and even a testament to why Filipinos do so well abroad).

The creative and entrepreneurial mindset that is part and parcel of the Filipino identity continues to be seen and adapted in current times in new ways and channels. Live selling on social media can probably trace its roots back to our suking tindahan, if you have pasalubong you can pasabuy, we have social enterprises that are giving new perspectives to traditions and helping transition our ingenious artisans into taking their crafts to fit the modern context. 

Salinlikha Salindiwa, the teaching and passing on of the Filipino’s creative and enterprising spirit, is experienced through the living examples of people who have put up these businesses, the driving forces that serve as inspiration to many more kababayans. They are everyone who embraces the grind to uplift their lives, families, communities, heritage, and culture in any and every way possible.

These enterprising individuals and their work and stories strongly reflect the Filipino’s inherent Creativity, Grit, and Tenacity. The 2024 SINAGLARAWAN PHOTO CONTEST considers Salinlikha Salindiwa a fitting theme for Filipino photographers to capture these notable people that honor and celebrate what makes Filipinos thrive and look forward to a hopeful future.