Neri Naig-Miranda: Legal Troubles, Christmas in Jail, and the SEC Case

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"Neri is facing 14 counts of violation of Securities Regulation Code (Section 28 of Republic Act 8799), in addition to estafa, for allegedly endorsing Dermacare's call for investors even if the company is unauthorized to solicit public investments because the company is not registered and operating without a license"

Former actress Neri Naig-Miranda, wife of Parokya ni Edgar frontman Chito Miranda, faces a grim holiday season as her legal troubles deepen. Currently detained in the Pasay City Jail female dormitory, Neri's scheduled arraignment for multiple alleged violations of the Securities Regulation Code has been moved to January 9, 2025, delaying her opportunity to present her defense.

The Case at Hand

The controversy centers on Beyond Skin Care Solutions, a company associated with Neri through her endorsement efforts. According to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the company allegedly solicited investments from the public without proper registration—a violation of Section 28 of Republic Act 8799. Investors were reportedly promised lucrative returns of 12.6% interest per quarter for five years, alongside free services from the clinic chain. These activities were flagged by the SEC in a September 2023 advisory as unauthorized and potentially fraudulent.

Neri faces 14 counts of securities violations, with bail set at ₱126,000 per count—amounting to over ₱1.7 million. She is also accused of syndicated estafa, a non-bailable offense, which involves fraudulent schemes perpetrated by a group of five or more individuals.

A Motion to Dismiss

Neri’s legal team filed a motion to quash or dismiss the complaints, citing her lack of direct involvement in the company's operations and unauthorized use of her name in connection with illegal activities. The Pasay RTC has sought comments from the SEC and the prosecution before moving forward with the arraignment.

SEC Clarification

In interviews, SEC Director Filbert Catalino Flores III stated that Neri's role as an endorser contributed to promoting the company’s offerings, making her complicit in its unregistered investment schemes. However, Neri, in a September 2023 Facebook post, clarified that she had severed ties with Beyond Skin Care and disavowed any unauthorized use of her name.

“Any transactions or engagements made under my name by Dermacare are unauthorized and have been conducted without my consent,” Neri stated, urging the public to inform her of any misrepresentation.

Arrest and Detainment

Neri was arrested on November 23, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, during her participation in the 15th PHILSME Business Expo. The Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Southern Police District confirmed the arrest, citing a warrant issued by the Pasay RTC. Chito Miranda criticized the process, alleging that Neri had not received prior notice of the complaints or an opportunity to defend herself.

Chito Miranda's Defense

Chito has taken to social media to defend his wife, asserting her innocence and implicating a certain “Chanda Atienza,” identified as the COO of Dermacare, as the primary culprit. In his posts, Chito emphasized that Neri neither solicited funds nor benefitted from the alleged schemes. He also expressed gratitude to former Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan, his uncle, for providing legal assistance.

Pangilinan echoed Chito’s sentiments, arguing that endorsers like Neri should not be held accountable for the illegal operations of companies they promote unless they are directly involved in ownership or management.

A Victim or a Culprit?

The case highlights a broader issue of accountability in the age of influencer marketing. While endorsers can lend credibility to brands, they may also unknowingly be complicit in deceptive schemes. The SEC's advisory warns that endorsers, brokers, agents, and promoters of such schemes may face legal repercussions, regardless of intent.

What Lies Ahead

As Neri remains in custody, the legal battle is set to continue in January. Meanwhile, public opinion is divided—some empathize with her plight as a possible victim of fraud, while others call for stricter accountability for endorsers. For now, the former actress is poised to spend Christmas away from her family, awaiting the court's next move in her case.

The unfolding events not only impact Neri’s personal life but also serve as a cautionary tale for influencers and endorsers, underscoring the need for due diligence and transparency when associating with businesses.

Essential Tips for Building a Thriving Community Through Networking Events and Summits

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Building and nurturing a community through networking events and summits is a strategic approach to foster meaningful relationships, enhance professional growth, and create a supportive environment for all members. 

Networking events and summits are more than just professional gatherings—they’re opportunities to build a thriving community of like-minded individuals who inspire, collaborate, and grow together. Whether you’re in the travel, hospitality, or corporate sectors, the key to creating lasting connections lies in intentional strategies and thoughtful follow-through.

Here are essential tips to effectively build and cultivate such communities:

1. Craft a Compelling Introduction

Start with a Memorable Introduction

First impressions set the tone for all future interactions. Develop a concise, engaging narrative about yourself that highlights your passions and expertise. The goal is to leave others curious and eager to connect further.

Your initial interaction sets the tone for future relationships. Develop a clear and engaging narrative about yourself that highlights your passions, expertise, and what you bring to the community. A well-crafted introduction not only piques interest but also encourages others to connect with you.

2. Engage in Active Listening

Actively Listen and Engage

Conversations should be a two-way street. Truly listen to what others have to say, ask thoughtful questions, and express genuine interest. People remember how you make them feel, and feeling heard is always appreciated.

Networking is a two-way street. Focus on understanding others' perspectives, experiences, and aspirations. Active listening fosters trust and respect, laying the foundation for genuine relationships.

3. Show Appreciation

Show Gratitude and Celebrate Others

Strengthen your connections by acknowledging achievements, sharing useful insights, and expressing gratitude for their time. This fosters goodwill and builds trust, making people more likely to engage with you in the future.

Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and contributions of your community members. Expressing gratitude strengthens bonds and fosters a positive, supportive environment. Simple gestures, like a heartfelt "thank you," can have a profound impact.

4. Leverage Mutual Connections

Mentioning shared acquaintances can create instant rapport and trust. Mutual connections provide a bridge for initial conversations and can lead to deeper relationships.

Shared connections can serve as a bridge to new relationships. When reaching out to someone new, mentioning mutual contacts can establish immediate rapport and trust.

5. Diversify Your Network

Break out of your comfort zone and connect with professionals from various industries and backgrounds. A diverse network not only broadens perspectives but also unveils unexpected opportunities.

Engage with individuals from various fields and backgrounds. A diverse community brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas, enriching the overall experience for everyone involved.

6. Follow Up Thoughtfully

The real magic happens after the event. Send personalized follow-up messages that reference your conversation, and maintain periodic contact to keep the relationship alive. Avoid overwhelming them with frequent messages.

After initial meetings, send personalized follow-up messages to express appreciation and suggest potential collaborations. Regular, meaningful communication keeps relationships active and demonstrates genuine interest.

7. Be Mindful of Non-Verbal Cues

Master Non-Verbal Communication

Your body language can be as impactful as your words. Maintain open postures, make eye contact, and use gestures to convey confidence and approachability.

Your body language communicates volumes. Maintain open and confident posture, make eye contact, and be mindful of your gestures to convey approachability and engagement.

8. Exercise Patience

Be Patient and Genuine

Building a meaningful community doesn’t happen overnight. Focus on cultivating authentic relationships instead of seeking quick results.

Building meaningful relationships takes time. Focus on developing genuine connections rather than seeking immediate results. Patience and consistency are key to long-term success.

9. Attend Diverse Events

Attend Cross-Industry Events

Participating in events outside your industry exposes you to fresh ideas and new connections. You might discover shared interests that lead to collaborative opportunities.

Participate in events beyond your immediate professional scope. Webinars, workshops, and conferences on various topics offer opportunities to meet new people and expand your network.

10. Maintain Consistency

Consistency Is Key

Networking is a long-term investment. Regularly attend events, engage with your network, and nurture relationships to maintain a strong community over time.

Networking and community building should be ongoing practices, not one-time activities. Regular engagement and participation in community events demonstrate commitment and foster deeper connections.

By implementing these strategies, you can create a vibrant and supportive community that not only enhances your professional journey but also enriches your personal growth. Remember, the essence of networking lies in building authentic relationships that offer mutual value and support.

Beyond Professional Networking

Building a community isn’t just about work—it’s about creating a support system of individuals who share your values and aspirations. Here are additional considerations for sustaining and growing your community:

Manage Leadership Burnout: As communities grow, leadership responsibilities can become overwhelming. Prevent burnout by delegating tasks, onboarding co-leaders, or redefining your community’s structure.


Decide on Monetization: While monetizing your community can provide resources, it may clash with your values or goals. Consider the needs of your members and the long-term vision of your community before deciding.

Pro Tips for Event Success

From industry insiders:

Polish Your Online Presence: Make it easy for others to find and connect with you. Update your LinkedIn or professional profile to reflect your current interests and achievements.


Remember Names: Use word associations, repeat names during conversations, or ask for spelling to help you remember. A name tag is not just a formality; it’s a tool.


Break the Ice: Help quieter participants by introducing them to groups and keeping discussions dynamic. Everyone should feel included.


Explore Personal Interests: Learning about hobbies and passions outside of work can strengthen relationships. Often, shared interests create the strongest bonds.

A Journey Worth Taking

Networking isn’t just a task to check off—it’s a rewarding journey of mutual growth. By approaching every event with intentionality and genuine interest, you’ll build a vibrant community that enriches both your personal and professional life.

What tips or strategies do you use to build and sustain your community? Let us know in the comments!

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Celebrating Innovation in Sustainable Tourism: Meet the 2024 Winners of the Social Entrepreneurship Competition

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The travel industry has long been a beacon for adventure, exploration, and cultural exchange. However, the call for more sustainable and inclusive practices has become increasingly urgent. The Social Entrepreneurship Competition in Tourism is at the forefront of addressing this need. Held on November 18, 2024, the competition spotlighted inspiring innovations aimed at reshaping tourism into a more socially responsible and environmentally conscious sector.

This year’s winners showcased diverse initiatives, blending creativity, sustainability, and community empowerment. Hosted by Dublin’s Kevin O’Shaughnessy and produced by Maria Stoyanova, the event captivated a global audience, reaffirming the role of social entrepreneurship in transforming tourism.

The Winners and Their Remarkable Initiatives

Himalayan Women Trail Leaders (Nepal)

Trekking tourism has long been a male-dominated field, but this initiative is changing the narrative by empowering Nepalese women. The project creates a comprehensive directory of licensed female guides capable of leading treks along the majestic 1,700 km Himalayan Trail. This endeavor not only promotes gender equality but also provides opportunities for women to thrive in the tourism industry.


Astrostays (India)

Merging community development with celestial exploration, Astrostays establishes community-operated homestays and communal spaces. Managed by local youth and women, these spaces offer travelers guided astronomy and stargazing experiences. The initiative brings economic upliftment to rural areas while fostering a connection between travelers and the cosmos.


Nam-Lolwe Kayaking Excursions (Kenya)

Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake, is the stage for this eco-friendly adventure. By training local fishermen as kayaking guides, this initiative introduces visitors to the untapped potential of eco-friendly kayaking tours and competitions. The project also highlights the traditional Luo name for the lake, "Nam-Lolwe," emphasizing cultural heritage.


Khalifast Fashion Design (Kenya)

Khalifast is revolutionizing sustainable fashion by transforming recycled plastic waste into African cultural attire, wedding dresses, and accessories. Beyond the innovative use of materials, the initiative trains vulnerable communities in the Kakuma region, offering them hands-on skills for economic empowerment.


Buslunteer (Global)

A transformative travel experience, Buslunteer takes sustainability on the road with an eco-friendly, fully equipped bus. The bus serves as both transportation and a hub for volunteering, allowing travelers to engage in local projects centered on environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and social upliftment.

Appennini for All (Growth Track Audience Favourite) – Mirko Cipollone (Italy) 

Appennini For All is providing accessible environmental tourism experiences in Italy for people with physical, visual, cognitive or sensory disabilities, while creating accessibility training and opportunities for local stakeholders.

The Impact of the Competition

The Social Entrepreneurship Competition in Tourism goes beyond recognition; it serves as a springboard for these innovative initiatives. Participants gain access to expert knowledge, mentoring programs, and international visibility. These tools empower them to scale their efforts and shape a sustainable future for tourism in their destinations.

Looking Ahead

This year’s winners embody the potential of social entrepreneurship to create meaningful change in tourism. By addressing environmental and social challenges, they inspire us to rethink how we travel and connect with the world.

As these projects grow, they will undoubtedly serve as benchmarks for what responsible tourism can achieve—fostering inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and community empowerment.

For those passionate about creating a positive impact through travel, these initiatives are a call to action. Join the movement and support these trailblazing entrepreneurs as they redefine the future of tourism.