For Women, By Women: Marga Nograles Puts the Ladies of Mindanao on Center Stage

For Women, By Women: Marga Nograles Puts the Ladies of Mindanao on Center Stage

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There’s no stopping this powerful woman from putting all kinds of women on the map for a bright future today, and an even brighter one tomorrow

Related: Roshni Mirpuri Proves That Fearless Authenticity Leads To Success

An empowered woman doesn’t just stand for herself. She makes sure that no woman, no matter where she comes from, is left behind. That’s how Marga Nograles is doing her part in guaranteeing that women are at the forefront. The Kaayo co-founder has already been working with women in livelihood projects before creating a joint venture with her mother in 2016. She was inspired to create a business model that would not just empower the women of Mindanao, but also provide them sustainable livelihood.

Structured blazer with draping by SACASAS, Linen bralette and pants by PUKU ESTUDIO, Bold square diamond link ring, twin bar diamond ring, and floret ear jacket all by SUKI JEWELRY

The future is female

The result, Kaayo Modern Mindanao PH, was an overwhelming success that has buoyed Marga to do more, grateful that she is able to make a difference in the lives of other people. That’s what she believes power is—in social service and uplifting lives. “With the work I do with our tribes in Mindanao, that comes with the passion and commitment I already made to them,” says Marga. “I work from the heart because I want them to have a better life.”

For Marga, there are so many amazing and inspiring women who are in power now; in her work, she sees firsthand how empowered women have become as they lead their communities to a better life. The next step? Being able to sustain their drive and passion to lead. To do so, Marga advocates a community of women building, helping, and inspiring one another—as well as knowing when to take a break and take care of themselves.

Structured blazer with draping by SACASAS, Linen bralette and pants by PUKU ESTUDIO, Bold square diamond link ring, twin bar diamond ring, and floret ear jacket all by SUKI JEWELRY

A woman with many hats

As a woman with many roles: a business owner, a fashion designer, a wife, and a mother, Marga understands the importance of taking some time for herself to be able to continue doing what she loves. Admittedly, she knows it’s easier said than done, especially since she has a lot on her plate. Her self-care means working out, eating well, and making sure that her hair is always presentable and in good shape. To put it simply, she said, “Find time to take care of [yourself] because if you are beautiful and confident, you will shine more.”


This power woman list co-presented by Pantene will also appear on MEGA’s April 2022 issue. Stay tuned!

Photography DOOKIE DUCAY
Creative Direction JANN PASCUA
Art Direction NICOLE ALMERO
Beauty Direction MIA CASTRO
Makeup PATRICK ALCOBER
Hair RICHARD VILLAREY
Stylist GEE JOCSON assisted by MIKE LESOY, JASON MAGO, and MARKO JEFFERSON MOYA
Photography Assistant MARK CATUNGA and ANTHONY LUMAGBAS
Shoot Coordination KZ FRANCISCO, MJ ALMERO, MAVIC VEDAÑA, and LOUIS ESGUERRA
Shot on location UPPER DECK PH

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