C-Lium, QC Target Biggest Zumba Party

A new Guinness World Records™ Title for the Philippines may be just a few grooves away. 

In preparation for its upcoming 75th Diamond Jubilee anniversary, the local government of Quezon City, in cooperation with C-Lium Fibre, is dancing its way to a new world record as it attempts to stage the largest Zumba® class outdoor party on October 12 at the Quezon City Memorial Circle.

C-Lium Fibre brand not only aims to promote unity and community camaraderie through this event, but to also make it a celebration of fitness and fun, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

C-Lium Fibre share the city government’s goal of encouraging Quezonians to “move as one.”

This potentially record-breaking Zumba® outdoor party is just one of the many exciting attractions lined up by the Quezon City government for its year-long anniversary.

“We are happy to announce that our application has been officially noted and accepted by the Guinness organization. In the spirit of unity, we are looking forward to making this event a big, fun-filled celebration for all,” said Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista.

The local government and C-Lium are targeting at least 9,000 attendees to actively participate in the one-hour, non-stop dance routine that incorporates Latin music and dynamic dance aerobics.

Non-Quezon City residents are also invited to join the historic event. “It is a free event, a colossal party that is open to everyone,” Bautista said.

This would be the country's first attempt to break the current Guinness World Records™ for the largest Zumba® class in a single venue, which gathered 6,671 participants in Hyderabad, India, last September 15, 2012.

‘Easy, fun, safe for all’

C-Lium and Quezon City also assure even those who haven’t experienced Zumba classes that the event would be entirely “easy, fun, safe and appropriately planned” to fit participants as young as 14 years old.

“No previous Zumba®, fitness, or dancing experience is required, they just need to follow the routines and, of course, the Guinness World Records™ guidelines, one of which calls for everybody in the entire class to participate to the best of their ability for at least 30 continuous minutes,” said Zumba® Fitness instructor Madelle Paltu-ob.

She further added that while the grand Zumba® party is set for October 12, they have been coming up with free pocket classes every week in all Quezon City districts throughout the month of September, as part of the preparations. 

Tadeo Palma, secretary for the Office of the Mayor and overall chairman of the Diamond Jubilee Committee, said that the Zumba® party is one important community activity that highlights the Quezon City government’s committed thrust to promote active, healthy lifestyles among its constituents. 

“We hope to inspire both Quezonians and non-Quezonians to commit to this kind of wellness routine not just for the momentary joy of setting a new world record, but for the long-term health benefits and fulfillment,” he said.

C-Lium Fibre is a food supplement made from psyllium plant. Psyllium is known to help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels, reduce fat absorption, and maintain a healthy digestive system.Continuous intake of C-Lium Fibre and regular Zumba fitness sessions will definitely be a good combination that helps achieve a healthier lifeslyle. 

C-Lium Fibre comes in husk powder and capsule variants and is available in leading drugstores and supermarkets nationwide. 

For more information, visit www.clium.com.ph.

Individuals interested to take part in the record-breaking Zumba attempt are requested to register in advance at their nearest barangay offices, or by logging on to www.qczparty.com. 

Sponsors and volunteers may contact Kristie Bonifacio at bonifacio.kristie@gmail.com or +639054294316.

Solaire Presents: The Jacksons Concert on November 3

Come for a stellar night of groovin’ filled with nostalgic pop and a whole lot of dancing as the siblings Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Tito Jackson bring to the Solaire stage more than four decades’ worth of chart-topping hits and timeless pop favorites.

Buy your tickets now at Solaire Concierge (888-8888) and Ticketworld (891-9999)/ ticketworld.com.ph and be part of history as the biggest-selling family in music of all time brings their rhythm to Manila.‪

#‎SolaireTheJacksons‬

Philips Kulinarya Cook-off concludes in SM Megamall

Duos of home chefs win Philips’ unique cooking challenge

How do you cook without any pots, pans, and stoves? This was the challenge faced by five tandems of homemakers during the Philips Kulinarya Cook-off, which was recently held at SM Mega Mall. 

Home chef tandem Marianne Camba and Vivian Tiongkiao pose after winning the Philips Kulinarya Cook-off, which challenged family cooks to whip up beverages and dishes using only the Philips kitchen collection

“We wanted to see how our home chefs would respond if we took away the traditional tools of the kitchen,” said RJ Buenaventura, General Manager for Philips Consumer Lifestyle. 

The Philips Kulinarya Cook-off, graced by celebrity cook Nancy Reyes-Lumen, challenged family cooks to whip up beverages and dishes using only the Philips kitchen collection. 

“This includes the airfryer, rice cooker, electric pressure cooker, juicer, and food processor. And each one of these appliances champion multi-functionality,” added Buenaventura.

“When they told us we couldn’t use pots and pans, I really thought of bowing out of the competition,” narrated Vivian Tiongkiao, one half of the winning tandem, Team Queen-ovations. 

Mariane Camba, Vivian’s partner, was thinking along the same line. She recalled, “This was the first time I cooked without a stove. I thought it was going to be difficult, but with Philips’ kitchen collection, the tasks were actually a lot easier.”

Vivian and Mariane bested mother and son team Mommy Mercedita and Gratian Madrona (Team Bulalo and Sili Mom), good friends Susan Flores and Villa Amor Loresca (Team Kusina Pilipina), mother and daughter team Luisa and Kamille Juanson (Team Frozen) and single moms Maridel Pacleb and Cherubim Dacanay (Team Philips Angels).

The finalists were hand-picked by Philips from a pool of contest applicants. 

“The Cook-off was a huge success,” described Pia Umayam, Business Development for Philips Domestic Appliances. “The Philips kitchen collection is all about simplifying the kitchen experience by minimizing effort and maximizing taste, and the contestants got to know these during the competition. The cook-off’s aim was to make this known to all consumers as well.”

Easy-to-use kitchen appliances

At first glance, the digital interface panels of Philips appliances were intimidating for the contestants. Tiongkiao narrated, “Digital timers and temperature controls seemed complicated, especially since most of us cooked using rule of thumb.”

But the everyday housewife quickly pointed out, “Madali lang pala (It was very easy to use).” Once the contestants learned how to use the different Philips appliances, they quickly saw the advantages of the Philips kitchen collection. 

The Philips rice cooker, for instance, is not only for preparing rice. It can also be used to make soup, stew, or even bake. According to Umayam, homemakers can expect the same degree of multiple-functionality from each of the Philips appliances as showcased during the cook-off. 

A simpler kitchen experience

The winning duo took home P40, 000 worth of Philips products, which will help them create a smarter and simpler kitchen in their homes. 

“At this day and age, consumers need to be practical at home,” emphasized Buenaventura. “This means considering savings on energy and space, multi-functionality, and ease-of-use in choosing kitchen appliances.”

He concluded, “For our part, Philips is proud to help homemakers attain these values. Our appliances are easy to use, multi-functional, and durable. In short, they work to make your life in the kitchen much easier—essentially, this was what the Kulinarya Cook-off demonstrated.”

To know more about the products, log on to www.philips.com.ph. You can also call our customer hotline at (632) 6679000 if you are within Metro Manila or 1-800-10-7445477 if you are outside Metro Manila. 

DepEd salutes Filipino teachers, celebrates World Teachers’ Day

The Department of Education (DepEd), together with education partners, celebrates the 2014 World Teachers’ Day, October 4 held at the Victorias Sports and Amusement Center in Victorias City, Negros Occidental.

DepEd salutes the teachers for recognizing the unwavering service and commitment of more than 660,000 Filipino teachers in strengthening communities and building the nation.

The event aimed to culminate the month-long celebration with festivities to express the education agency’s sincere gratitude for teachers’ important role in revolutionizing the educational reform efforts of the department.

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC 

Education Secretary Br. Armin Luistro FSC underscored the great responsibility of every teacher in preparing the Filipino youth to be better equipped for the world.

“If all the teachers in the country start to move as one, we will start the biggest revolution in education,” Luistro said.

“If we want to transform our country, we need living heroes. Marami sa ating teachers ang bayani na.” He related the stories of Teacher Lorna and Teacher Evangeline, who both acted beyond the call of duty to protect learners in the darkest of times.

Luistro highlighted the big heart of teachers during calamities, saying that their role in disaster risk reduction management is proof of their willingness to surpass the call of duty. “Every day that you spend in your classroom is living heroism,” he added.

He commended the strength and dedication of the Filipino teachers not only in ensuring the safety of the learner but also in healing them through education.

“The best lesson that a teacher teaches our children especially in the darkest of times is to smile.”

“We hope to give emphasis on your efforts, our dear teachers, all throughout the country in your everyday battle inside and outside the classroom. Each day you stand in front of the students is another day of taking on the challenge of eliminating illiteracy and ignorance among the minds of the Filipino youth. As you teach them every day, you empower every learner and ignite within them the aspiration to achieve greatness—not only for themselves but also from others.”

Senate President Franklin Drilon

Senate President Franklin Drilon, a proud Negrense, said, “World Teachers’ Day is our collective expression of our appreciation for your outstanding service.” He expressed his admiration for teachers who continue shaping young minds of the country. He underscored their important role in influencing the kind of citizens the country will have. “Do not underestimate your part in building this nation,” he said.

“I am a proud product of public schools. Whatever I achieved in my life, I owe to my teachers who inspired me to serve [the public],” Drilon said.

Victorias City Mayor Francis Palanca welcomed teachers from Regions VI, VII, VIII who attended the grand celebration. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “If we become successful, it’s because of you. You are our heroes.” He added that teaching is not only a profession but also a way of life.

“Walang naging mayaman sa pagiging guro pero mayaman tayo sa pagbibigay ng inspirasyon at pag-asa sa bayan,” Randy Halasan, 2014 Ramon Magsaysay awardee said in his inspirational address.

The celebration of World Teachers’ Day was attended by 7,500 teachers and administrators from Regions VI, VII, and VIII. Among the attendees were District III Negros Occidental Representative Alfredo Benitez, Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Maranon, Metrobank President Chito Sobrepeῆa, Philippine Post Master General Josie dela Cruz, DepEd Undersecretary for External Linkages and Partnerships Mario Deriquito, Bato Balani Foundation awardees, and 2014 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Teachers awardees.

Here are some pictures during the great celebration of World Teachers' Day.

Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Maranon

Metrobank President Chito Sobrepeῆa

Superbook Season 2

Good news to all Superbook lovers and fans! Finally, the long wait is over!

Superbook Season 2 will air on Philippine TV for the first time in ABS-CBN beginning October 11 at 9:30 a.m.

Packed with 13 all-new and exciting episodes, Superbook Season 2 is definitely the perfect bonding and learning time for the families.

Superbook lovers will surely enjoy watching their favorite Superbook characters Chris, Joy and Gizmo as Superbook surprises them to experience new adventures, meet new friends and new heroes, explore new places and discover new lessons based on the greatest story book ever written -The Bible.

For our first Superbook Season 2 episode, we will meet Jonah, a man who was tasked by God to do a very special mission. Will he do it? Find out this Satuday, October 11, 9:30 on ABS-CBN. Invite the whole family and your friends. Don't miss this amazing trip back in time!

Trailers c/o ABS-CBN:

Superbook Jonah episode: http://youtu.be/CRMTnMu_3d8

Superbook S2 World Premiere trailer: http://youtu.be/gV2Yl5mJmDs

Goin Bulilit on Superbook Season 2: http://youtu.be/TpSLfc3OEig

PH envisioned to lead ASEAN in developing standards for the gifted

A Philippine organization is posed to spearhead the establishment of an (ASEAN) Association for Giftedness to leverage economic growth through human capital development.

Non-profit group Philippine Center for Gifted Education Inc. (PCGE), led by Dr. Leticia Ho, is working towards creating standards for ASEAN member countries to ensure robust criteria for identification, development and nurturing of gifted children.

“While the ASEAN integration aims to unite the ten member countries into one economic, multi-cultural community, development of its human capital is definitely a vital component,” says Dr. Ho.

The ASEAN Association for Giftedness will provide a platform for regular meetings, joint researches, exchange programs and other innovations in gifted education that can help boost economies, including the Philippines’. 

“Modern growth theory has explained the vital contribution of human capital development in a country’s economic growth. Improvements are closely related to the level of cognitive skills of the population. This emphasizes the need to identify, develop and nurture gifted talents for the benefit of the country,” adds Dr. Ho.

An ASEAN Summit on Giftedness sponsored by PCGE is scheduled in October. Dr. Ho hopes that this will stir interest and encourage parents, teachers, psychologists, guidance counselors and the gifted themselves to converse and exchange ideas about how to leverage on excellence for growth. 

The summit will feature global expert Françoys Gagné, Ph. D. and his Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent. Professor Gagné, supported by Promil Pre-School, will share his belief in the need for natural abilities to be nurtured in order for one to excel.

With its long-standing thrust of encouraging excellence, Promil Pre-School has always worked hand-in-hand with parents’ support and proper care through the right learning environment to nurture gifts into exceptional talents that can benefit a larger community.

Promil Pre-School's proven heritage of success is backed up by its long list of exceptionally talented children who have brought fame, encouragement, and positive influence to their communities and the country in one way or another.

“Nurturing the gifted is not limited to ensuring that their gifts and talents are properly addressed through education, training, cognitive stimulation and other programs. Part of their nurture is to infuse values of maka-Diyos, makabayan, makatao (being God-fearing, patriotism, compassion). In this manner, the gifted themselves become gifts to others,” says Dr. Ho.

“The vital link between the gift of generations of Filipinos and the country’s success is something that we recognize and value,” says Dian Yu, product manager, Promil Pre-School. “As a long-term advocate in encouraging children to reach their full potential, Promil Pre-School will continually support efforts that allow for exceptional talents to turn into outstanding achievements for our nation.” 

According to the Department of Education (DepEd), there are 1.27 million gifted children in the country (2010 data) who may be in possession of exceptional abilities that, unfortunately, aren’t fully developed for lack of proper guidance and support.

World’s largest passenger plane Emirates Airbus A380 touched down at NAIA

PH President Benigno S. Aquino III witnessed the arrival of the Emirates Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger jet this Tuesday night on a one-off commercial flight by to mark its move to the newly rehabilitated Terminal 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Emirates make that flight from the Dubai International Airport with the A380 only once and the plane fly back to Dubai shortly after at 1 a.m. on Wednesday.

“The main objective of the A380 one-off trip to Manila is to mark the move of the Emirates Airline to the Terminal 3 and show its commitment to the Philippines since 1990,” Emirates said in a statement.

Dubai-based air carrier Airbus A380 touched down at the Terminal 3 NAIA landed by the the first Filipino Super Jumbo Jet Captain, Capt. Franklyn Desiderio.

Capt. Franklyn Desiderio, The 1st Filipino A380 Captain (Photo: PPSG (Phlippine Plane Spotters Group)

(Photo: PPSG (Phlippine Plane Spotters Group)

In August this year, Emirates transferred its operations to the NAIA Terminal 3 from its previous home at the congested NAIA Terminal 1

Other international carriers such as Delta Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific also moved to Terminal 3 when it went into full operation.

The completion of the NAIA 3 rehabilitation had been delayed for a decade by legal issues.

Aquino waiting to welcome passengers of Emirates A380, world’s biggest aircraft, from Dubai. 

(Photo via Zen Hernandez of ANC )

No international airline uses the A380, by far the largest passenger plane, onflights to and from Manila.

With two full-length decks measuring a total of 6,000 square feet, the A380 is 50 percent bigger than the Boeing 747 and is widely considered a the solution to the common problems of rising number of plane passengers and congested.

A ‘hapee’ brushing experience for kids

Seeing your kids flash their bright smiles can be the most priceless sight in the world – a precious “picture perfect” moment that any parent would love to capture and relive. When both corners of their mouths start to turn up, those infectious curves on their faces make you smile, too, especially when you are confident that their teeth are strong and healthy.

Say bye-bye to tooth decay the fun way with Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste 

Convincing your kids to brush their teeth is not as easy as it appears to be. In fact, for some mothers, it is a daily morning struggle that can be very tedious as a chore.

“Even if I ask my four-year-old in a nice way or pretend to get angry at her, it just doesn’t work,” shares Emily Bunagan of Pasig, who admitted that she already tried all strategies she knows just to persuade her daughter to brush her teeth, but still to no avail.

It is the duty of parents to instil to their kids the habit and importance of brushing one’s teeth at an early age. But mothers, did you know that you don’t have to do it alone? More often than not, the success of convincing children to brush their teeth relies on a very crucial first decision – the choice of toothpaste.

With Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste, brushing is now more than just a required hygienic practice. Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste takes brushing into a whole new (and not to mention exciting) level – a total fun and play experience for kids! Mothers don’t have to stress over morning battles with their kids, as the kids themselves will now be looking forward to brushing time as fun time.

Given the right kind of toothpaste, all you need to do is to complement it with the right dose of creativity and patience in order to make your kids appreciate that proper oral care can be very enjoyable, too. With Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste’s seven unique flavors, children will never see brushing in the same boring way again!

Keep in mind that your child’s set of teeth is very different from that of an adult’s. A set of baby teeth is more fragile and sensitive, thus requiring more delicate care. As soon as your child begins teething, it is important also to start brushing his or her teeth to prevent cavities caused by acid attacks, which may arise from drinking milk and eating sweet food, among others. Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste contains just the right amount of fluoride for children.

With these things said, here are more tips for your kids’ “hapee” brushing experience:

· GIVE HIM A CHOICE. Allow him or her to choose his or her own toothbrush, and toothpaste flavor. A colourful toothbrush, an attractive packaging and a fruity flavor for toothpaste like Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste will add excitement to every brushing time. 

· SING ALONG. Did you know that it takes at least two (2) minutes to get your child’s teeth clean enough? Don’t forget that while brushing up and down, left and right, start humming a simple children’s music or nursery rhyme for 2 minutes to make sure that your child is brushing his or her teeth properly long enough.

· TAKE IT SLOW. As expected, your child won’t be as good as you when it comes to brushing. Don’t stress over when he misses some spot. The more important thing at this stage is to make brushing a fun habit with Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste and its cute cartoon characters. With practice, he’ll improve sooner.

· BE ENCOURAGING. Praise your kid whenever he brushes his teeth well. Say words of encouragement like “Hapee Brushing” or “Cavity monsters are gone!” You can also entice him with the yummy flavors of Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste.

· ACCOMPANY YOUR CHILD. To show your kid that brushing is indeed necessary, be a good role model and join him while brushing. 

· FIND AN ALLY. Of course, Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste is the perfect ally but you must visit the dentist regularly. Ask your dentist to acknowledge your kid’s brushing habit. 

By the time that your kids have fully absorbed brushing as part of their daily routine, gradually train them to brush their teeth alone. But you still have to keep track of their brushing habits once in a while. You can make it even more fun by rewarding them everytime they accomplished their day-to-day brushing regimen.

Life is so much easier with the right toothpaste! With Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste, all it takes is the right pinch of patience and creativity so your kids won’t see brushing again as a dull after-meal ritual. With the right brushing tools like Hapee Kiddie Toothpaste, your children will say hello to a “Hapee-ier” smile and say goodbye to cavities. The next thing you know, they’ll even remind you to brush your teeth on time!

Who says brushing can’t be fun? He must not have tried Happie Kiddie Toothpaste yet!

For more fun and exciting dental tips, visit www.facebook.com/HapeeKiddie.

Vitamin D deficiency due to limited sun exposure is linked to chronic diseases

With widespread health warnings about the dangers of too much sun exposure, opting to stay indoors to avoid harsh ultraviolet rays might sound like a good idea. But what most people don’t know is that avoiding sun exposure can lead to Vitamin D deficiency and increase their risk of developing chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer.

For the longest time, Vitamin D was associated directly with bone health, but recently, it has received a lot of attention from the medical community and the media regarding its overall health impact. Studies show that people with chronic disease have low levels of Vitamin D.

Unilab introduces new Vitamin D supplement: More than half of Filipinos are shown to suffer from vitamin D deficiency, cases of which have been steadily on the rise in the country. In efforts to promote awareness of vitamin D deficiency among Filipinos and provide a solution to the silent epidemic, UNILAB takes the lead by launching a new vitamin D supplement, Forti-D. Present at the launch were (from L to R) Dr. Rudy Pagcatipunan, Unilab Consumer (ULCH) Health Medical Director; Katherine B. Martinez, ULCH Category Head; Dr. Marilou Renales, Philippine College of Occupational Medicine Board Director; Dr. Alejandro Diaz, Diplomate and Fellow of the Philippine Neurological Association; and Mr. Alexander S. Panlilio, ULCH Division Head

And considering the Philippines is a tropical country, most would likely believe they’re getting enough Vitamin D due to the mainly sunny weather. Surprisingly and alarmingly, it was revealed that Vitamin D deficiency is becoming prevalent among Filipinos, with 7 out of 10 working adults identified to be suffering from such deficiency. This is based on an ongoing study commissioned by Unilab in partnership with Hi-Precision Diagnostics among 5,000 working adults, 18 yo and above, who live in Metro Manila and other urban areas in the Philippines.

Various researches traced the high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency to increasingly indoor lifestyles, with most cooped up in the confines of their offices during daylight. Other factors identified were practices such as using an umbrella and slathering on sunscreen at midday, which is actually the best time of the day to get the ideal amount of Vitamin D. These are the common practices that people inadvertently do that lead to a deficiency of the Sun vitamin. Nonetheless, factors such as skin color, age, clothing choices, cloud cover, and pollution also come into play in Vitamin D production in the skin.

It remains, that most of the Vitamin D production in the body relies heavily on the skin’s exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, since including a Vitamin D rich food into one’s diet could only do so much as only 10 to 15% of the required daily Vitamin D dosage can be obtained from it.

It is highly advised for everyone to meet the required daily dose of Vitamin D to ensure strong and healthy bones and proper functioning of the body’s organs, to help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.

Yellow Cab’s Challenge Camsur and Challenge Philippines Announce USD $299 Bundle Price

Athletes and triathletes all over the world have the chance to experience races of a lifetime.

The Challenge Philippines Family of races has announced more hot news with their Early Bird Two-Challenge Bundle Price.

For USD $299, athletes get to experience two world-class triathlons for the right price. From a TOUGH old school course, Challenge Philippines in Subic Bay and Bataan, that will put every triathlete’s grit to the test, to a brand new FAST course, Challenge Camsur, that encourages participants to compete with themselves to set their new personal bests, 2015 is going to be an exciting year of new Challenges.

Registration for Yellow Cab’s Challenge Camsur. The Early Bird Two-Challenge Bundle Price lasts until October 14, 2014 only.

Be part of the Challenge Family and book now!

http://challengephilippines.com.ph/

PH the first country to introduce IPV in routine immunization; Every newborn in the Philippines will now receive the Inactivated Polio Vaccine

In celebration of World Polio Day, the Department of Health launch the inactivated injectable polio vaccine (IPV) to keep the Philippines polio-free, during the event yesterday (October 6, 2014) held at the Paranaque City Hall, San Antonio Valley1, Paranaque City.

Deaprtment of Health Secretary Enrique Ona

“The introduction of inactivated polio vaccines will allow us to improve the protection of Filipino children against polio and maintain our polio-free status in the country,” Health Secretary Enrique T. Ona declared.

Here's another decisive step towards global polio eradication by 2018 – The Department of Health welcomed the official celebration of the introduction of the inactivated injectable polio vaccine (IPV) in the Philippines immunization schedule.

The Philippines is the first developing country in Eastern Asia to introduce IPV in routine immunization, following the universal recommendation issued by WHO earlier in 2014. It is also the biggest developing country in the world to introduce IPV and is expected to be watched closely by many countries which have already announced their intention to introduce IPV.

Yesterday, October 6, 2014, several children were vaccinated with Inactivated Injectable Polio vaccine (IPV), Imovax® Polio, at a celebration of the introduction held at the Paranaque City Hall, chaired by Janette Garin, Under Secretary of Health.

The introduction of IPV is a part of the DOH expanded program on immunization for children.

They are the first of more than two million Filipino children who will now be vaccinated every year, 14 weeks after birth. One injection of IPV will be given to every child along with one injection of a pediatric pentavalent combination preventing diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b and hepatitis B, and one dose of oral polio vaccine (OPV).

The universal introduction of IPV, a vaccine that has been used in the majority of the developed world for years, is a necessary step toward achieving a polio-free world by 2018.

Filipinos are part of trade, commerce, innovation and the labor market around the world so the country plays an extremely important part in global efforts to end polio forever. 

The Philippines has an emotional attachment to zero polio that stretches back to the start of mass polio epidemics in the world in the late nineteenth century: the first prime minister of the Philippines and a hero of the country’s anti-colonial struggles, Apolinario Mabini was a polio survivor who lived with lifelong disabilities caused by the disease.

The last polio case in the country was recorded in 1993. With the sustained effort of the Department of Health on the polio eradication initiative, in October 2000 the Western Pacific Region of the World Health Organization and all its member countries have been certified polio-free. For a region to be certified as polio-free, there should be no reported cases of indigenous polio 3 years preceding the certification.

Dr Janette Garin, Under Secretary of Health

The Philippines decided to buy IPV with its own national health budget, according to Dr Garin. “As a medical doctor, I am delighted that we are among the first developing countries to invest in the polio vaccine that children already get in Europe and North America. Our children deserve to be protected fully against the disease that killed and crippled so many Filipinos even during the time I was growing up”, she said.

“I am also proud that Filipinos have inspired and led many of the global civil society efforts against childhood diseases including polio. Imagining and calling for a better world is part of our national genius. Polio eradication can be our generation’s legacy to all future generations” she added.

“The DOH recognizes immunization as a key element in reducing the burden of childhood mortality and morbidity and the inclusion of the IPV boosts our children’s health and immunization programs,” the health chief said.

Countries and partners move forward to the end of polio

The universal introduction of IPV is part of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) Endgame Strategic Plan. The Plan was endorsed by 194 countries in 2013 and offers a comprehensive roadmap that includes ending polio transmission, improving routine immunization rates and creating a lasting blueprint for addressing other significant global health challenges.

“Sanofi Pasteur has been a public health partner of Filipino health authorities for years," said Olivier Charmeil, President and CEO of Sanofi Pasteur. 

"It is our mission to build a nation where no one suffers or dies from a vaccine preventable disease. We are very proud to help the country remain polio-free. Today, the Philippines move is an inspiration to many countries that are likely to introduce IPV in the coming months. Today we are getting a little closer to the day when polio will be just a memory and its horrors will be consigned to history.”

This sentiment is echoed by Sanofi Pasteur Philippines Country Manager, Ching Santos, as she states, “Sanofi Pasteur Philippines is one with the Department of Health in ending polio. Our company has provided all doses of both OPV and IPV to support the Philippines program against polio. We are proud to contribute to the protection of the men, women and children of our country and will continue to provide quality and innovative products for disease prevention. Along with our partners in the immunization committee, we will carry this out with passion knowing that we make a difference in the lives of Filipinos.”

Why kids need regular eye checkups

Ideal Vison commemorate World Sight Day, recommending people to take your kids to a visit to the eye doctor this October 9.

“As World Sight Day is on October 9, this is the perfect time to take yourself or your children for an eye exam. Children need regular visits because it helps them perform better in their day-to-day activities.” -- Dr. Joy Go, AVP for Ideal Vision

"Sitting too close to the TV will damage your vision"

Children are naturally curious about the world. And their eyesight plays a critical role in how they learn new things around them.

In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), visual impairment among children is a major obstacle in the learning process in school.

“Healthy eyesight is something that shouldn’t be taken for granted,” says Dr. Joy Go, AVP for Ideal Vision. “Children that suffer from visual impairment are prevented from benefiting from their lessons in school.”

Ideal Vision Center is a pioneer in total quality vision care that services Filipinos from all age groups.

Early prevention

Dr. Joy Go stresses that it is important for parents to schedule their children for regular eye checkups to prevent them from acquiring eye problems.

“The greatest risk that children might acquire is blindness, which is caused by cataract, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and vitamin deficiency,” Dr. Go describes. “Sadly, because some children do not have access to proper eye care, around 1.4 million children live in darkness.”

Treatments for eye problems include proper eyeglasses, contact lenses, and refractive surgery. However, Dr. Go recommends the use of eyeglasses “which is the most preferable and most convenient for children.”

For its part, IVC helps provide the eye care needs of children and adults—whether they are seeking products for health or purely aesthetics.

“Of course maintaining the health of your vision doesn’t end with regular checkups,” says Dr. Go. “You also have to consider eating healthy food that helps nurture the eyes, and keep them from being overly exposed to radiation.”

“With this year’s celebration of World Sight Day, we hope Filipinos would become aware of the health needs of their eyes,” concludes Dr. Go.

Visit one of our centers to get your free eye exam, because early detection can save your vision.

Pinkberry meets Sugarpova !

One of my creations at Pinkberry, SM Megamall, October 1, 2014

Craveable and refreshing yogurts is great for desserts. And not just for dessert, Yogurts is for health, got power-boosting protein and bone-building calcium. It can also help you lose weight.

That's what my daughters fave and I now introduce them to Pinkberry, as I experience creating my own light refreshing yogurt - Pinkberry with Sugarpova!

Pinkberry is one of the fastest growing retail brands globally with over 240 stores across 17 countries. The Philippines is its first market in Asia. Greenbelt 5, their flagship store in the country opened last December 7, 2011. Pinkberry reinvented the frozen yogurt category when it launched in West Hollywood, California in January, 2005. 

When they launched nine years ago, they only had two flavors: original and green tea. Today the brand has gained a pop culture icon status and has expanded its menu to over 18 flavors that are rotated seasonally. 

The handcrafted yogurt bar offers the original tart and tangy frozen yogurt that is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, resulting in a light, refreshing and clean taste that is truly craveable. Each serving uses only real non-fat yogurt and real non-fat milk for the best tasting yogurt experience.

Pinkberry’s thoughtfully selected premium toppings number to thirty, categorized into four – dry, fruit, luxe and liquid. Each topping is chosen to provide a taste and texture combination to complement their signature frozen yogurt. Their fruits are always fresh, never from a can, frozen or sitting in water. 

Sugarpova toppings

In line with its commitment to create a destination for consumers in search for an elevated treat experience, Pinkberry partnered with Sugarpova, a candy line by international tennis sensation Maria Sharapova and candy veteran and founder of international retailer IT'SUGAR, Jeff Rubin. The premium gummy candy collection is a fun, fashionable, and sweet match with Pinkberry's iconic, light and refreshing frozen yogurt.

Sugarpova's unique-shaped gummy candies are now available as toppings to your favorite Pinkberry flavor. They have the Sugarpova Flirty Mini, a fruit-flavored candy in the shape of kissable lips and Sugarpova Smitten Sour Mini, a sour rainbow candy ribbon. 

Soon, the Sugarpova Flirty Sour Mini (a collection of sour fruit-flavored lips, hearts and stars) will be added to the line up of options. Sugarpova is best paired with Pinkberry’s fresh and light strawberry yogurt and their newest tart flavor, cherry.

According to the Sugarpova website, "Sugarpova is a premium candy line that reflects the fun, fashionable, sweet side of international tennis sensation Maria Sharapova." A portion of all proceeds from the sale of Sugarpova go towards the Maria Sharapova Foundation, Sharapova's charity. The gummy candy was first marketed in the U.S. in August, reaching 250,000 bags in the first three months. Sugarpova was launched worldwide in 2013 through IT'SUGAR and Selfridges stores in the United Kingdom.

New Cherry flavor

Aside from its special tie up with Sugarpova, Pinkberry is also excited to announce its new flavor – the tart and light Cherry Pinkberry. Cherry Pinkberry is crafted from real bits of juicy cherries, so it perfectly captures the delicate, delicious flavor of fruit fresh from the market. The new flavor is excellent as Chocolate Covered Cherry with shaved milk chocolate and chocolate sauce. It is also recommended with fresh strawberries, honey almond granola and agave nectar, Pinkberry likes to call that combination Cherry Crumble. You can also try Cherry Pie, with a waffle cookie and strawberry puree. You can go for Cherry Macaron with coconut and toasted almonds. Or you can experiment and create your own concoction!

In addition to frozen yogurt, Pinkberry also offers fruit parfaits, fruit bowls, smoothies and waffle cookie sandwiches. Visit Pinkberry in Greenbelt 5, Alabang Town Center, SM Aura, Power Plant Mall, and SM Megamall Fashion Hall.

Post your order of Pinkberry yogurt (any product) topped with at least one Sugarpova topping on Instagram and tag @pinkberryph #sharapinkberry and get a chance to win P500 worth of Pinkberry gift certificates. One winner will be chosen each week, winners will be announced every Friday, until October 24.

Get a taste of Swirly Goodness by logging on to www.pinkberry.com.ph or their Facebook page www.facebook.com/PinkberryPhilippines

Buy-One-Get-One on Salted Caramel 

For the next couple of weeks, Pinkberry will be running a special promotion on its salted caramel flavor. It’s BOGO (Buy One Get One) on all salted caramel products every Friday until October 17, 2014, from 5:00 PM until the store closes. Customers can get any two salted caramel items, pay for the higher priced item and get the other one for free. 

#FreeFBisBack - Enjoy a wonderful browsing experience with no strings attached! Globe eyes dominance in mobile data business with return of Free Facebook offer

Free Facebook is Back! You can now enjoy unlimited Free Facebook, no strings attached! The promo runs until November 30, 2014.

Globe Telecom is looking to dominate its mobile data business with a substantial growth of its mobile data user base with the return of its Free Facebook offer, giving its postpaid, prepaid, and TM customers access to Facebook at zero data charges and without Wi-Fi needed.

Globe will progressively roll-out access to the social networking site to its over 43 million mobile customers beginning Friday, October 3, 2014 to Sunday, October 5, 2014, responding to the overwhelming demand for the service which allowed users to enjoy free access to the social networking site and superior browsing experience. 

Free Facebook can be accessed on feature phones and smartphones across all Facebook mobile platforms whether via the Facebook app or Facebook's mobile site m.facebook.com. There are no restrictions on the megabyte (MB) allocation per day to access the site and no maintaining balance is required for prepaid customers. 

With Free Facebook, customers need not purchase any data plan to avail of the promo, and will only be required to register once to enjoy Free Facebook all they want. Those who subscribed to Free Facebook previously and did not opt-out do not need to register to the offer.

“We are excited to announce another wonderful Globe surprise to our over 43 million mobile customers, the return of our much-anticipated Free Facebook offer. With our better and bigger Free Facebook, customers enjoy all-you-want access without any MB cap, no daily registration needed, and no maintaining balance. Globe users can enjoy sharing, liking & posting on Facebook for free. Only from Globe, the network that gives you a wonderful browsing experience and access to your digital lifestyle with no limitations and no strings attached,” says Globe Chief Operating Advisor Peter Bithos. 

To register to the Free Facebook offer, customers can text FREEFB to 8888 for free information and they will receive a text message with a link to open to start accessing Facebook for free. 

All Globe prepaid and postpaid customers to enjoy a wonderful browsing experience with no strings attached.

As the leader in innovation to serve the digital lifestyle of its customers with breakthrough mobile data offers powered by its modernized network now with 100% 3G coverage nationwide, Globe launched its Free Facebook offer in October last year with an aim to seed the habit of mobile browsing on its expanded 3G and 4G networks, doubling the telco’s mobile data user base.