“Bridging Baby Steps” gives education on infertility and raise awareness on IVF ( in-vitro fertilization)

The advancement of technology in the medical field and availability of improvised technique has given a ray of hope to millions of childless couples across the world.

Merck Philippines, one of the world’s oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company, remains committed to changing lives of couples with fertility problems. As they continuously spreading awareness to help couples who are having problems conceiving, “Bridging Baby Steps” symposium was held at the Shangrila Hotel, Manila on October 21, 2017. 

Through the Fertility Awareness Campaign, now on its fifth year, Merck Philippines held the “Bridging Baby Steps,” to continue education on infertility and raise awareness about the in-vitro fertilization (IVF) methods available in the country through seminars and information dissemination. 

Infertility, is a disease of the reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Not all couples are suffering from fertility problems. Data from a Synovate survey in 2011 shows that one out of 10 Filipinos are suffering from infertility. 

At the symposium “Bridging Baby Steps” we have learned a lot about In vitro fertilization treatment that has given a lot of respite to couples from various parts of the country and abroad, who are facing infertility disorders.

Aside from marrying age, educational status, professional goals, and other socio-cultural practices affect a couple’s ability to procreate, infertility can also be traced to issues affecting both the female and male reproductive systems, and medical conditions that compromises the quality of egg and sperm cells. 

Dr. Gia Pastorfide talks about Egg freezing

Anthony Marc B. Ancheta

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most common and most effective type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to help women become pregnant. In the simplest description of IVF,  is the process of joining of a woman’s egg and a man’s sperm in a laboratory dish.This procedure involves fertilizing an egg outside the body, in a laboratory dish, and then implanting it in a woman's uterus.

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) involves a significant physical, financial, and emotional commitment on the part of a couple. Psychological stress and emotional problems are common.

As it commonly known as Test Tube Baby, IVF is the process of fertilization by extracting eggs, retrieving a sperm sample, and then manually combining an egg and sperm in a laboratory dish. The embryo(s) is then transferred to the uterus.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) treatment procedure enables multiplication of ovarian follicles and facilitates egg cell retrieval. During the process, embryos will be formed outside the body of a female patient and will be transferred once the cultures are successfully formed. Patients who are suffering from severe sperm deficits, blocked fallopian tubes, unexplained infertility, mild endometriosis, and ovulation disorders can be candidates for this treatment.

Fertility medications are prescribed to stimulate egg production. Multiple eggs are desired because some eggs will not develop or fertilize after retrieval. A transvaginal ultrasound is used to examine the ovaries, and blood test samples are taken to check hormone levels.

Eggs are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure that uses ultrasound imaging to guide a hollow needle through the pelvic cavity to remove the eggs. Medication is provided to reduce and remove potential discomfort.

The male is asked to produce a sample of sperm, which is prepared for combining with the eggs.

In a process called insemination, the sperm and eggs are mixed together and stored in a laboratory dish to encourage fertilization. Through this procedure, a single sperm is injected directly into the egg in an attempt to achieve fertilization. The eggs are monitored to confirm that fertilization and cell division are taking place. Once this occurs, the fertilized eggs are considered embryos.

The embryos are usually transferred into the woman’s uterus three to five days following egg retrieval and fertilization. A catheter or small tube is inserted into the uterus to transfer the embryos. This procedure is painless for most women, although some may experience mild cramping. If the procedure is successful, implantation typically occurs around six to ten days following egg retrieval.

The success rate of IVF clinics depends on a number of factors including reproductive history, maternal age, the cause of infertility, and lifestyle factors.

Mr. and Mrs. Basilio shared their story on how blessed they have now two babies after IVF.

There are a number of questions to ask regarding the cost and details of specific centers and fertility programs. To further equip yourself with information of fertility, and IVF in the Philippines, visit Facebook page www.facebook.com/fertilityawarenessphilippines.  

Catch the hottest volleyball action live at the PSL Grand Prix- Free with any Cloudfone device!

Cloudfone users can watch the games live for free! 

Cloudfone and the Philippine SuperLiga (PSL) forge a new partnership to bring league perks to Cloudfone users and first-in-the-Philippines in-game innovations.

The PSL taps Cloudfone as the league’s first technology sponsor in the 2017 Chooks-to-Go PSL Grand Prix Conference. 

The Grand Prix, which officially starts on October 28, will be marked with a grand opening, including the public launch of the tie-up. Karch Kiraly, head coach of the United States women’s volleyball team, will be among the special guests of honor during the opening. 

Free admission for Cloudfone users

Cloudfone users can let out their biggest cheers as they root for their favorite players and team as they watch the games live and for free at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan. 

Cloudfone devices, including feature phones and smartphones, become free Lower Box passes, and entitle all Cloudfone users to see the games during the Grand Prix Conference for free until the grand finale on December 16 as the best teams of the league go face-to-face for the championship rounds.

“They just have to show their phone units and register at the gate. We will always reserve a special section for all Cloudfone users inside the venue so that they can have the best seats, the best view to watch the games,” says PSL Events Director Dr. Ian Laurel.

This perk gives Cloudfone users unparalleled experience of the sport. There’s no need to buy tickets, which are being sold at the venue, at SM Tickets booths at SM malls, and online at smtickets.com.

“All they need to do is come over, watch, and enjoy the best volleyball action that we have--the best players, the best teams in women’s volleyball right now,” says Dr. Laurel.

The PSL games take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at the Filoil Flying V Centre in San Juan, and at different provinces in Luzon and Visayas. All games are aired live on ESPN5 at 4:00 to 8:00 PM, with replays of select matches on the next day. 

“As the only professional volleyball league here, PSL believes in elevating the quality of the sport while making it more accessible for Filipinos from all regions to enjoy the games. Cloudfone is aligned with the same mission of bringing global standards in our products and making these available to all Filipinos. Both Cloudfone and PSL advocate for the same thing, to bring quality within reach of our customers and audiences,” explains Ray Caguin, Cloudfone Group Brand Manager.

Cloudfone has already established itself as a brand that provides more value beyond what the usual phones offer. “In all our partnerships, we ensure that we give customers an access to lifestyle wants and wishes. And we are always happy to get those values from our partnerships and give them to our customers. Now, with the PSL agreement, Cloudfone gives access to exciting and world-class quality volleyball games that Cloudfone users can enjoy for one full conference. Owning one of our feature phones, the Cloudfone Lite premier, which only retails at P499 already gives you unlimited access for the entire conference,” Caguin adds.

The league’s schedule is available on the PSL website philippinesuperliga.com.

New sports technology

The partnership could not have come at a better time. Aside from providing benefits to sports fans through free games for Cloudfone users, this new alliance introduces the tablet system to Philippine volleyball.

“We welcome the partnership of Cloudfone with PSL. This is a big support because in this Grand Prix, we are launching the tablet system for the competition. The timing of the partnership is really good,” says PSL President Ramon Suzara.

The PSL precedes other leagues in the country as it pioneers the Volleyball Challenge System, which requires the use of tablets. Cloudfone, as the PSL’s official technology partner, provides all the tablets needed to make this breakthrough possible.

The Volleyball Challenge System kicked off at International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) games in 2013 and was first adopted at an Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. It allows coaches to use a tablet to officially call timeouts and request challenges through video review, among others. 

“This is being used now in international volleyball. There used to be just a button that coaches press underneath their seats when they need to call a timeout. But this time, we have a tablet,” says Dr. Laurel.

The PSL begins implementing the system in the Grand Prix’s semi-finals. All teams to make it to this stage are issued Cloudfone Cloudpad tablets.

These developments showcase the two organizations’ common passion for innovation, volleyball, and elevating Filipinos’ skills and talents to international standards. 

“The Philippine SuperLiga is the only league sanctioned by the Asian Volleyball Confederation (AVC) and the FIVB,” says Dr. Laurel. “We want to keep up with the standards that they set. We follow competition regulations like an international governing body.”

Fans of the sport and the brand alike can know more about Cloudfone’s products and services by approaching Cloudfone booths installed at game venues or visiting cloudfone.com.ph. 

The company offers a wide range of devices such as the recently launched Next Infinity Series boasting screens with an 18:9 aspect ratio.

Expect equally exciting announcements about Cloudfone and their partnership with PSL as the conference progresses.

For more awesome Cloudfone information, visit www.cloudfone.com.ph.

Tindig Marawi : Mindanao Peace Advocate Robin Padilla Launches "Kabahayan, Kabuhayan for Marawi"

Robin Padilla well known film director, screenwriter, producer, actor and MINDANAO Peace Advocate launched, Tindig Marawi, yesterday, October 26, 2017 held at Ilustrado, Intramuros, Manila. 

Tindig Marawi, Padilla's  personal advocacy to help rebuild the war-torn city and provide support for its people in terms of shelter and livelihood opportunities.

Marawi City, officially known as the Islamic City of Marawi, is the capital and the only city in the province of Lanao del Sur on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. The people of Marawi are called the Maranaos and speak the Maranao language. They are named after Lake Lanao, which is called Meranauin the language, upon whose shores Marawi lies. The city is also called the "Summer Capital of the South" because of its higher elevation and cooler climate.

All hopes and effort for the full-blown rehabilitation, reconstruction and rebuilding to get back into normalcy of the city after the five-month battle against Islamic State-inspired terrorists.

“Ang Mindanao at kapayapaan ay dalawang bagay na malapit sa aking puso,” Padilla shares, explaining why the Marawi Siege that lasted for five months has impacted him in a big way. 

Unknown to many, Padilla has already started helping the people of Marawi since the war started last May by reaching out to friends, relatives, and private companies to gather relief goods for those displaced by the war. Padilla also recently donated Php5 million for the psycho-social intervention of the kids of Marawi and personally distributed Php5 million worth of relief goods to affected families.

Despite these efforts, Padilla admits that the people of Marawi need so much more help.

An advocate and dedicated Filipino, Padilla created the “Tindig, Marawi” movement to create heightened awareness on the critical needs of the people of Marawi despite the recent government’s declaration on the end of the Marawi siege. 

Padilla said that the worst thing that could happen is for the public to forget that the people of Marawi still needs everyone’s help, especially at this time of rebuilding.

“Ang Tindig Marawi po ay isang kilusan, hindi poi to pansariling pagkilos ko lamang. Inaanyayahan ko po ang lahat na tumulong para sa pagbangon at pagtindig na muli ng Marawi. Natapos man po ang digmaan, napakalaki pa rin po ng kanilangang pangangailangan. Bahay, hanapbuhay, pagkain, ospital, paaralan—napakarami pong nawasak sa Marawi at malawakang pagtulong po ang kailangan para makatindig silang muli,” Padilla said during in a press conference yesterday.

Damaged buildings and houses. (Reuters/Romeo Ranoco)

Padilla said that he hopes to use “Tindig, Marawi” as a springboard to generate more support from private individuals, corporations and organizations to support and help in the rebuilding of Marawi.

During at the yesterday’s press conference, Bhavna Suresh, managing director and Chief Executive Officer of the global property portal Lamudi, signed a memorandum of understanding to officially partner with the Tindig Marawi program, particularly in the establishment of a portal that will help serve as a fund-raising platform for the rebuilding of shelters in Marawi.

Lito Villanueva, managing director of the financial technology company FINTQ, is also collaborating with Tindig Marawi through the “Pabuhay” component where they commit to assist the Marawi victims regain their livelihood and facilitate organic farming and micro business training through their program, KasamaKa. 

They will also kickstart the Tindig Marawi Livelihood Fund, hoping to raise a minimum of P10 million which will be used to provide seed money to the people of Marawi so they could start and rebuild their businesses.

Dr. Potre Diampuan 

Also present during the press conference was Interfaith peace advocate Dr. Potre Diampuan who shared with the media the three things that the Maranaos need at this time – Shelter, Subsistence and Sustainability. 

Padilla appealed for media, government and non-government, and all to support this cause - Tinding Marawi.

“Umaasa ako na sana’y itong proyekto nating Tindig Marawi ay maka-antig sa puso ng ating mga kababayan na tumulong sa mga kapatid nating naapektuhan sa katatapos lang na labanan sa Marawi,” Padilla said.

Padilla mentioned some of his colleagues in the industry, such as actor Piolo Pascual and director Joyce Bernal, have already donated to the Tindig Marawi fund and Padilla hopes that more people will follow suit.

Halloween Weekend Special and October Rock Festival at Chaos Nightclub, City of Dreams Manila

City of Dreams Manila’s Chaos night club ends October on a high note with a Halloween Weekend Special and a rock festival featuring the country’s most sought after DJs, singers and bands.

For a spine-chilling revelry, Chaos casts the spotlight on DJs: Brandon Jon, David Ardiente, and Emil Angeles to spin retro tunes in “Nostalgia” on October 26th; and Trapped, MVRXX, Jet Boado, and Supmerman to showcase different music genres from hip-hop, pop to EDM in “Across The Board” on October 27th.

An extraordinary ghoulish night dubbed as “Out of the Norm” features the Trap and Dubstep beats of DJs JJ Saur, Nathan J, and MK Thompson on October 28th as co-presented by Heineken. The Halloween Weekend special will be hosted by MC Ronthug.

Partygoers are encouraged to show off their scariest and most creative costumes for a chance to be chosen as the best in male and female Halloween attire and win a bottle of Bacardi each.

The last installment of Chaos’ rock music festival held on Sundays of October highlights Nicole Asensio of General Luna and Ney Dimaculangan of 6Cyclemind onOctober 29.

Nicole Asensio, the former lead vocalist of all-girl rock band General Luna, with her powerful pipes, will perform a repertoire of songs from her debut solo album “Schizoprano”. Combining her background in theatre and classical music with her rock and roll vocal prowess, tracks like “Leader for A Day”, All in All”, Wag (Mo Na Ako Mahalin)”, and “A Song On A Broken String” will have the crowd fired up and wanting for more.

Aptly concluding the month’s line-up of rock bands is Ney Dimaculangan, the former frontman of 6Cyclemind who will be performing with the eponymous band – NEY – together with Arnee Escobedo, Patch Sanchez, Kervi Capin, and Louie Lopez. Armed with an album that was released in March, the group will set the stage ablaze with their top tracks: “Doble Kara”, “Sa Akin Ka Na Lang”, “Kahit Saan, Kahit Kailan”, and “Habag”, among others.

Entrance is free for the October Rockfest on October 29. Door charge is priced at P500 inclusive of one drink for the Halloween Weekend Special from October 26 to 28. For Chaos VIP table reservations, guests can call 0917-8863678 or go to www.chaosmanila.com.

Chef Anton Amoncio's newest culinary challenge

Celebrity Chef Anton Amoncio takes on a new culinary challenge. 

This time as an online culinary sensation with his ‘Anton’s Food Corner’ on YouTube. Chef Anton was the grand prize winner of Asian Food Channel’s Food Hero Asia which was held in Singapore last year. He is the first Filipino to win in the prestigious competition.

The concept of the online food corner follows Chef Anton as he takes on the challenge of selecting any man on the street and cooking for him within an allotted budget. He goes to the market or grocery and buys all the necessary ingredients for the meal.

Sans his apron and toque, Chef Anton solves anyone’s concern on how to cook sumptuous meals even on a shoestring budget.

Tipid baon for kids. Dalawang ulam for P150. Silog for breakfast. Merienda snacks for the whole tropa. Salted eggs with a twist. 

No worry. Chef Anton have it covered! 

He has the Midas touch when it comes to transforming simple ingredients into fantastic and delicious meals. Check out his YouTube channel and watch out how his flair for inventing the ideal recipes for solo or groups will give viewers creative ideas on what to serve on the dinner table.

Chef Anton’s love affair with foods is visible when you watch him at ease using a knife, tossing steamed vegetables, blending fresh fruits, mixing flavorful seasonings, and whisking eggs. All these and more in store at Anton’s Food Corner.

“I have been wanting to do this online cooking show for the longest time! I’m so grateful that it is finally fulfilled through Anton’s Food Corner. I want to let everyone realize that you can cook and enjoy great meals like you are in a fancy restaurant even on a limited budget. Cooking and dining must be savored with pleasure. I want to inspire and share culinary tips,” explains Chef Anton.

Chef Anton Amoncio is a talent of Asian Artists Agency. For inquiries, please call (02) 855-4765 or (02) 405-4423, email info@asianartistsagency.com, and visit fb.com/asianartistsagency

GCash: Pay for everyday purchases using your mobile phone

Recent surveys often report that millennials would rather lose their wallet than lose their phone. Are wallets and cash things of the past?

GCash seems to be making this happen sooner by introducing the scan to pay feature in the GCash App. 

GCash is the mobile wallet service for Globe customers used to pay bills, send money or buy load. Now, the new feature lets you pay for goods and services just by scanning a QR code using your phone.

“We want to give the people a different kind of experience where all they will be needing is their phone to pay for their daily expenses. With scan to pay, there will soon be a time when GCash can already be used to pay your neighborhood sari-sari store or even the balut or ice cream vendor just by scanning the QR code sticker of the vendor. It has been done in other places and we’re also doing it here,” said Anthony Thomas, President and CEO of Mynt which operates GCash.

The scan to pay feature can now be used at Mercato Centrale, Kabisera, and Ibiza, among many others, in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. 

It is also being rolled out in in various establishments such as malls, fastfood joints, pharmacies, at movie theaters.

To experience the cashless lifestyle with scan to pay, all you need to do is download the GCash App which is available for both Android and iOS devices. Top up or cash in at Globe Stores or GCash Partner Outlets such as SM Business Centers, Puregold, Cebuana Lhuillier, and 7-Eleven. 

Find the QR code of the merchant then just use your GCash App to scan the code and pay. This is a whole new level of cashless lifestyle.

The GCash App scan to pay feature is definitely a game-changer, making cash so yesterday. If you want to experience the scan to pay feature of GCash, head on to Glorietta 4 this October 25!

Try it and you’ll agree, cash is so yesterday. GCash mo na yan!.

Buyer’s Guide to finding the right oven for your modern kitchen - Beko introduces safe, smart features to cook your meals

Ovens are must-haves in any modern kitchen. Their innovative functions and features only not ensure that meals are made quickly, efficiently and safely but that these appliances make your kitchen attractive as well. 

According to Dyeun Zapanta, Sales and Marketing Head of Beko Philippines, today’s modern kitchen is all about the efficiency, sleek design, and functionality of your appliances. As most of us spend some time and effort preparing meals for the family, it is important to find the right cooker that can address your very specific needs.

To help you find the right choice, Beko, one of the Europe’s largest and most popular appliance brands, listed some of key things to consider when buying a new oven.

Size and Capacity

If you are re-designing your kitchen or thinking of upgrading your built-in cooker, the size and capacity should be the first things you should consider. This factor is important since there are different kinds of oven sizes to choose from. 

For instance, if you need an oven to carry out most of your everyday cooking, the built-in Single Ovens are the ideal cooker for you. With their 60cm height, you can place them anywhere in your kitchen. This oven is also perfect for families who don’t have enough kitchen space for double ovens but still want to get the benefits of capacity cookers. Beko’s range of single ovens come in 65L to extra-large 82L capacities.

However, not all kitchens are spacious so if yours isn’t, Beko’s Compact Ovens can be the ideal option. With its 45cm height, you can place it in between your cabinet columns without taking much of the space. This cooker is just the right size and has a 40L capacity.

If you happen to have a large kitchen, Beko’s Double Ovens are the best choice especially if you like preparing multiple dishes at once. These ovens can be built-in to your kitchen’s cabinet columns. It comes in a 72cm and 90cm height model and its double oven capacities are also great for multiple cooking with its 48L and 65L capacity, respectively.

Type

After deciding on the size and capacity, it’s time to think about which type of oven you need. There are three types of ovens to choose from namely, conventional, fan, and multi-functional ovens.

Conventional ovens are ideal for traditional home cooks. This type of oven allows for a conventional-style of cooking since the heat comes from the top and bottom heating elements and does not have a fan to circulate the heat.

Fan ovens, on the other hand, are best for baking or if you often cook dishes that require even temperature. With fan ovens, the heat is distributed evenly throughout the entire cooking compartment using either single or multiple fans.

And if you’re a home cook who enjoys experimenting with different cooking methods, the Multi-function oven is right for you. It can be used for grilling, defrosting, or baking and with more functions, you can cook any dish you like.

Easy-to-clean feature

Another feature you should consider is the self-cleaning feature. While you may enjoy cooking, let’s face it, cleaning the oven after using it can be a hassle.

Beko integrated self-cleaning features in its line-up of cookers to help cut your cleaning time. Its Pyrolytic Self Cleaning™ and SimplySteam Cleaning™ features clean away unwanted dirt, germs and food debris quickly and thoroughly so you spend more time with your family and less time cleaning up.

The 120-minute Pyrolytic Self-cleaning cycle function helps burn stubborn stains into a fine ash by safely heating your oven to 500 °C. The ash can then be simply wiped away with a piece of cloth, without the need of any detergents or chemicals. For ovens that are not too dirty ovens, you can use the shorter 90-minute eco-pyrolytic cycle. The 90-minute cycle saves 25 percent of energy consumption.

Some Beko ovens also have the SimplySteam Cleaning™ technology that cleans using steam. After using, simply remove the accessories, pour some water into the tray and place it at the bottom level of the cooker. Then, set the operation knob to start the steam cleaning process. Once the cycle is done, you can now wipe away all the dirt inside using a clean cloth.

Extra features

The last factor that you should consider when buying an oven is the range of extra features that come with it. 

Beko’s line-up of ovens offer a handful of modern and practical features, such as the Split&Cook feature that allows you to split the oven into two separate cooking zones so you can have two different temperatures without mixing the scents and flavors of your dishes; the Multi-Dimensional Cooking feature that cooks evenly and efficiently through the use of multiple dishes that traps its own supply of hot air enabling you to cook homogeneously and with maximum efficiency; and Safety features such as Gas Safety and Flame Failure that automatically cut off the gas flow when the fire is accidentally extinguished by the wind or any liquid, thereby, preventing gas leakage.

Zapanta further said, “Beko has since innovated numerous features for our cooker line-up. This is our way to ensure that you can take advantage of all the latest technologies that make every day cooking a truly enjoyable experience.”

Strengthening its local presence in the country, Beko Philippines continues to penetrate the Filipino market. Since 2015, the company already doubled its distribution, as well as tripled its sales through an enhanced and domineering product line that continuously meets the demands of the consumers.

To know more about Beko and Beko Philippines, like their Facebook fan page (@BekoPH) or visit their website at www.beko.ph

Robinsons Supermarket helps kids write a better future with Cupcake Craze promo

Robinsons Supermarket executives present a certificate for the 10,000 pencil donation to Bagumbayan Elementary School principal Dr. Salve (leftmost).

Cupcakes make life colorful and sweeter—this rings true for many, especially for the Grade 1 students and teachers of Bagumbayan Elementary School who received 10,000 pencils from Robinsons Supermarket. The school is just one of 120 public schools nationwide that received pencil donations from the brand, through its annual “Cupcake Craze” promo. 

Bagumbayan Elementary School Principal Dr. Salve presents a certificate of recognition to Robinsons Supermarket’s AVP for Fresh, Lyn de Jesus and Division Merchandising Manager for Fresh, Ardee Arieta.

Now on its 5th year, the “Cupcake Craze” promo enabled customers to receive a free animal lunch box for every three cupcake packs purchased. To make the promo more meaningful, a pencil donation was made for every cupcake pack sold. 

This proved to be a huge success with 180,000 pencils distributed to different public schools. The promo was supported by Monde, Regent, Rebisco, Lemon Square and Jack ’n Jill.

“We hope that as the students use the pencils to write their lessons or to draw, they are reminded that they also have the power to write their own future. And we hope they will write for a brighter and more meaningful future both for themselves and their families,” said Lyn de Jesus, AVP for Fresh. 

In line with Robinsons Supermarket’s health and wellness commitment, education plays a critical role in empowering Filipinos to make better choices. 

“We believe education is the great equalizer. We feel we have the responsibility to promote this every way possible,” said Jody Gadia, Robinsons Supermarket General Manager. 

Learn more about Robinsons Supermarket and its initiatives at www.robinsons-supermarket.com.ph or like their official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RobinsonsSupermarketOfficial.

Pru Life UK named ‘Patron of Literature’ at Nick Joaquin Literary Awards 2017

Pru Life UK representatives together with ALIW Media Group Chairman D. Edgard A. Cabangon (left most), Philippines Graphic President Benjamin V. Ramos (second from left), and Philippines Graphic Publisher T. Anthony C. Cabangon (rightmost)

British life insurer Pru Life UK, a subsidiary of international finance services group Prudential plc, was conferred the Patron of Literature Award by the Philippines Graphic for being an advocate of Philippine literature through the Nick Joaquin Literary Awards (NJLA). 

Pru Life UK co-presented the NJLA for six consecutive years in line with the Company’s advocacy to promote literacy and education in the country, helping lay strong foundations for Filipinos to realize their full potential.

The 2017 NJLA paid homage to the 100th birth anniversary of National Artist Nick Joaquin, the Philippines Graphic’s first editor-in-chief after it was relaunched in 1990. The awards night also featured the presentation of the Guardian of the National Memory Award to four living National Artists for Literature: F. Sionil Jose, Virgilio Almario, Bienvenido Lumbera, and Cirilo Bautista, for their role in promoting Filipino values and culture through the written word.

Organized by the Philippines Graphic, the longest running newsweekly and literary magazine in the country, the NJLA is held annually to recognize the best stories published in the magazine during the year.

Pru Life UK’s support to NJLA is in line with its community initiatives which are focused on three key pillars: children, education, and disaster preparedness and recovery. The Company is committed to giving back to the community, which it has been doing for more than 20 years in the Philippines.

In 1996, the Insurance Commission granted the British subsidiary the license to operate and sell life insurance products in the country. Since then, Pru Life UK has expanded its reach to over 130 branches in the Philippines, with the biggest life agency force at more than 18,000 licensed agents, and has emerged as one of the top five life insurers. Pru Life UK holds headquarters in Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Ever heard of Pagani Automobili Hypercars?

For hardcore motorheads, hypercars represent the ultimate in automotive technology, a notch above supercars in terms of performance, technology, design, luxury, exclusivity, and rarity. With price tags in the millions of dollars, hypercars exist only in the rarefied world of the rich and famous, and ordinary mortals might never get to see one in their lifetime, except on a movie screen—or in a scale model box.

Some hypercars offered in the market are the Bugatti Chiron, the Lamborghini Centenario, and the Porsche 918. Exclusively creating only hypercars, Pagani is a marque that many Filipino motorists may not be familiar with. Founded in 1992 by Argentinian Horacio Pagani, the company is based in the Motor Valley, just outside of Modena, Italy, and is manned by just 130 employees.

The Pagani Zonda was first introduced at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show. Although it does not share the names of its customers, it is well-known that Lewis Hamilton owns a purple 2012 Pagani Zonda. 

The Pagani Huayra, which was featured in the 2013 Transformers 4 movie, retails for US$2.5-million. It has a top speed of 378kph, and 0-100kph acceleration time is 3.2-seconds. Only about 40 units are built each year.

Pagani is most distinctive feature is the 4-tube exhaust—the Quattro Scarichi, in Italian—coming together in a circle. 

There are currently no Pagani hypercars in the Philippines, but that may change very soon!

TOP-YOUR-OWN Classic Jolly Hotdog at Jollibee!

Jollibee, the country’s number one fast-food brand, reveals the top secret everybody waits. Jollibee opens up a whole new world of flavors with its introduction of extra toppings for its best-selling snack offering, the Jolly Hotdog.

You can now top your own classic Jolly Hotdog, Add a twist to your classic favorite Jolly Hotdog. With TOP-YOUR-OWN Jolly Hotdog, you can now choose to add any of the three toppings to your Jolly Hotdog - cheese, bacon and jalapeño.

Extra Cheese..... Extra Bacon..... Extra Jalapeño! 

These extra toppings go perfectly well with the Extra Cheesy, Extra Beefy flavors of the Cheesy Classic Hotdog. The 100% beef hotdog, Jollibee’s special hotdog dressing, ketchup, and grated cheese all come together to bring unforgettably delicious experience with every bite.

For a limited time starting October 15, 2017, we can customize our favorite Cheesy Classic Jolly Hotdog with carefully selected toppings.

Choose from adding Extra Bacon, Extra Jalapeño, or Extra Cheese, all for P10.00 each. For over-the-top flavor, go for the All-In or any 3 toppings option for only P25.00 to enjoy an appetizing combination of crispy, savory, and spicy!

Extra Cheese, Extra Jalapeño, and Extra Bacon topping choices now available as Jollibee launches its new Top-Your-Own option for the Cheesy Classic Jolly Hotdog!

“One of the emerging needs of the Filipino diners is the desire to customize their favorites to their liking. That’s why we introduced the Top-Your-Own Cheesy Classic Jolly Hotdog that allows them to customize it differently every time… It lets everyone enjoy it the way they want.” says Mr. Mari Aldecoa, Jollibee’s Marketing Director for Core Products.

The Cheesy Classic Jolly Hotdog and extra toppings are available for dine-in, take-out, delivery, and drive-thru transactions in all Jollibee stores nationwide. Prices start at P50.00*.

Mix, match, and share your signature Top-Your-Own Jolly Hotdog creation on the Jollibee Facebook page (facebook.com/JollibeePhilippines) or tag @jollibee on Twitter and Instagram.

* Prices may vary across different locations