Busting five outdated myths about generic medicines

Filipinos today have a bevy of medicine that they can choose from to solve some of the most common ailments that afflict them. Aside from this accessibility, Filipinos can now also avail the medicine they need at prices they can afford all thanks to generic medicines. But many are still hesitant to buy generic medicines, even if they have been scientifically-proven to be as effective as their branded counterparts, simply because of outdated myths and conjecture. 

We’ve compiled a few myths about generic medicines and we’ve busted them with facts that can you use as your reference when buying medicines:

1. Myth: Generic medicines are inferior versions of branded drugs.

This may be the most common myth surrounding generic medicines and it is absolutely false. Generic medicines are similar to branded medication in that they have the same dosage, intended use, effects, route of administration, risks, safety, and strength as the original drug.

It is important though that the generics medicine you are buying are bioequivalent to the innovators.

2. Myth: Generic medicines are unsafe.

Because most generic medicine are packaged differently than their branded counterparts due to its affordability, some associate this simpler packaging to reduced effectivity. But, don’t be fooled by the packaging, because generic medicines are safe and effective. Like branded medicine, it passes through the most stringent process. As long as they are approved by the local Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they are safe.

3. Myth: Generic medicines are cheap because they are scraps of branded drugs.

This is an opinion that is wrong on every level. Good quality medications are produced in safe and sterile manufacturing facilities, they are more affordable because the research and development costs have already been invested by the innovator companies. When the patent for medicines expire, manufacturers can apply to the FDA for permission to make and sell generic versions of the drug without the start-up costs for development of the drug.

4. Myth: Branded medicines will cure you, but generic medicines won’t. 

Some people are misled to thinking that branded drugs are effective and generic drugs aren’t. Some world-class generic medicine brands like RHEA Generics, are worth buying not only because they are easy on the pocket but are also world-class quality. They are working with pharmaceutical companies that are recognized all over the world which serves as an assurance that these generic medicines are as effective as their branded counterparts.

5. Myth: All generic medicines are the same.

Consumers should be mindful to trust only those generic medicines created or distributed by reputable companies. A trustworthy generic medicine brand is RHEA Generics. They are known for upholding the highest standards in the pharmaceutical industry resulting to high quality medicines with affordable price points.

RHEA Generics has a wide variety of world-class quality medicines available in Mercury Drug stores nationwide all for your health and wellness. For more tips on health, just follow RHEA Generics on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RHEAGenericsPH.

“Oriente Express joins other digital finance companies to form FinTechAlliance.ph”

Oriente Express has come together with other digital finance companies to establish FinTechAlliance.ph. With their combined efforts, these companies aim to drive financial innovation, provide a forum for the discussion of the future of technology and finance, and deliver social impact.

“The alliance was created to enable and strengthen the drive towards working for a financially inclusive Philippines,” says Katrina Cokeng, Oriente Express General Manager, and FinTechAlliance.ph Vice Chair. She adds, “We are working closely with the country’s regulators and leading FinTech companies to make sure we create financial solutions that deliver positive impact to the underbanked Filipinos.”

FinTechAlliance.ph includes various FinTech firms such as Grab Philippines, Smart Communications, Inc., Lendr, Uber Philippines, Cash Credit, Acudeen, CashCredit, Coins.ph, Lenddo, Mynt, PayMaya, PawnHero, Seedbox, and TrueMoney. 

The association will focus on collaborative and strategic moves to further stimulate innovation towards inclusive growth and empowerment of the emerging Filipino classes.

“The formation of FinTechAlliance.ph is very timely as all industries in the country are undergoing digital transformation. Having a unified representation will make collaboration and communications more efficient,” says Teresita Herbosa, Securities and Exchange Commission Chairperson.

About Oriente Express

Oriente Express is a partnership between Greater China-based Oriente (which is behind internet giants Skype and LU.com) and JG Summit Holdings Inc. It aims to develop a digital finance marketplace to address financial exclusion of underbanked consumers and MSMEs, by enabling affordable online lending and wealth accumulation based on proprietary data and a revolutionary credit scoring infrastructure.

Visit www.OrienteExpress.com to learn more.

LENOVO OFFICIALLY KICKS OFF HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED LEGION OF CHAMPIONS SERIES II GRAND FINALE - Ten teams representing eight markets in Asia to compete for the glory of Asia’s gaming champion

Lenovo, the world’s leading PC manufacturer, has officially kicked off the “Legion of Champions Series II” Grand Finale (LoC; former League of Champions). This three-day gaming extravaganza, held in partnership with Intel, is expected to bring together over 60 gaming talents in Asia Pacific together in a Bangkok, Thailand. 

Following last year’s successful debut, the competition has expanded its footprint to include teams from Hong Kong and Taiwan, in addition to Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The in-market champions from the eight markets will battle it out and the winning teams will walk away with a combined pool of close to 500,000 THB (approximately PHP 812,000) in cash. 

 

After three days of intense competition, from January 26 - 28, the champion team will walk home with a cash prize of 210,000 THB (approximately PHP 341,000), while the first and second runners up will be awarded 110,000 THB (approximately PHP 178,000) and 70,000 THB (approximately PHP 113,000) respectively.

Lenovo Legion gaming devices will be the enablers for qualifying champion teams to compete during LoC, empowering them with a world-class experience in speed, performance and consistency. The anniversary edition of Legion Y520 laptop will also make its first appearance at LoC to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the launch of Lenovo Legion, a gaming sub-brand first introduced in CES 2017. Coming in two designs – one in red and another in black and gold. In the Philippines, the black and gold version will be available in limited stocks in February 2018. 

Legion of Champions Series II is one of Lenovo’s major efforts in nurturing the next-generation gamers and growing the gaming community in Asia. Professional or amateur gamers alike, the teams competing at the Grand Finale of LoC are the best in Asia’s gaming scene. These in-market champions have stood out despite the fierce competition; all of them have gone through multiple elimination rounds at the local level to finally reach the highly-anticipated Grand Finale, competing against other top-notch talents for the 

ultimate gaming glory.

 

Hundreds of gaming fans are expected to attend this year’s Grand Finale of “Legion of Champions Series II” in Bangkok, Thailand to watch the heated battle and the birth of a new champion. For those who reside outside Bangkok, they can watch the live-streaming of the competition via https://www.facebook.com/LenovoTH/videos/10155550049041843/.

 

For more information on LoC 2018, please visit https://legionlenovo.com/loc2018/. 

DJI’s New Osmo Mobile 2 Now Available In The Philippines

A Redesigned Osmo Mobile 2 Turns Smartphones Into Smart Steadycams

DJI, the world’s leader in creative camera technology, introduced the new Osmo Mobile 2 at the recently held CES 2018. Built for smartphones, it can give consumers, professional videographers and photographers new tools to capture smooth, steady videos and stunning photos wherever they go.

Osmo Mobile 2: The handheld smartphone camera stabilizer from DJI, redesigned for the storyteller in all of us. Using a lightweight design that supports portrait orientation, with simpler controls with cinematic zoom, a longer battery life for more filming, and intelligent features to help you share a professional-looking story wherever you go.

Osmo Mobile 2 – Redesigned for the Storyteller in All of Us

Osmo Mobile 2 is a smartphone camera stabilizer that captures smooth videos and high-definition panoramas with cinematic movement and incredible ease. DJI’s industry-leading three-axis gimbal technology cancels out movement in three directions so your video stays steady even if your hands shake or wobble, while DJI’s built in SmoothTrack technology detects and compensates for your movement of the camera to ensure a smooth cinematic shot every time.

Designed to be lightweight and portable, Osmo Mobile 2 is made from high-strength modified nylon and features a folding design that makes it perfect for all-day use. The two-way mobile clamp lets you easily pivot between landscape and portrait orientation so that you can chose the most engaging full-screen format for your audience. In addition, a 1/4” universal screw mount ensures compatibility with your favorite photography accessories, making Osmo Mobile 2 more versatile than ever.

Simpler controls let you use your phone’s camera like a professional camera with integrated settings for ISO, shutter speed and more. A new zoom slider lets you completely operate your smartphone camera from the handle and you can even produce dolly zoom, a visual effect usually created only on professional film sets.

A more powerful built-in battery system lets you film for up to 15 hours, over three times longer than the original Osmo Mobile’s battery. The new USB port enables phone charging during use and serves as a power bank for charging other electronics while on the go.

Smart software in the DJI GO mobile app unlocks intelligent photo and video features that help you create professional-looking content automatically. Videographers can use modes including ActiveTrack to automatically follow of subjects in motion, Motion Timelapse with up to five different camera positions, Hyperlapse to create dramatic time-lapse videos with the camera in motion, or stream live to popular social platforms like Facebook and YouTube. Photographers can expand their creativity with options such as Panorama, Long Exposure and LightTrail modes.

Price and Availability

Osmo Mobile 2 retails at PhP 7,900 and is locally distributed by MSI-ECS. To know where to buy the new Osmo Mobile 2, call (02) 688-3512 or email marketing@msi-ecs.ph.

For more information on all the new features and capabilities of Osmo Mobile 2, please visit www.dji.com/osmo-mobile-2.

Capture your picture-perfect moments with the new SAMSUNG Galaxy J7+ and J7 Pro now in pink!

Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation officially launches the newest color variant of the Samsung Galaxy J7+ and J7 Pro, which now comes in pink, along with Liza Soberano and her real-life BFF Michelle Vito, as the faces of the J7 duo.

#LizChelle : Actress Michelle Vito joins her real-life BFF Liza Soberano as the newest faces of the SAMSUNG Galaxy J7+ and J7 Pro in PINK!

Since her launch as the face of the Samsung Galaxy J7 Pro last year, Liza is once again showing her fans how to capture picture perfect moments, this time with her ultimate BFF Michelle. From their adorable throwback photos back in 2011, to their nostalgic sleepover photos, to their ultra-glamorous bestie shots in star-studded balls and events, this duo has documented their friendship the same way we all do with our own best friends. It only goes to show that their friendship is set to grow even stronger with a phone that lets them capture perfect moments in the best way possible - with the Galaxy J7+ and J7 Pro in pink.

Just like Liza and Michelle, the Galaxy J7+ and J7 Pro in pink is perfect for best friends who love to declare their friendship through their style and hobbies. Now, with the Galaxy J7+ and J7 Pro in pink, you can also express your personality through your favorite color and share the experience with your favorite person!

Sporting the Galaxy J-Series’ famous night camera, the J7+ and J7 Pro in pink allows users to capture the night in exceptional quality, regardless of lighting condition. Top that with the its signature 5.5” FHD Super AMOLED Display that lets you view each photo in the best quality possible. The J7+’s 13MP+5MP rear cameras with LED flash and 16MP front camera with LED Flash and J7 Pro’s 13MP rear autofocus camera with LED flash and 13MP front-facing camera with LED flash also lets you capture all your picture-perfect moments with your BFF with flare!

The Galaxy J7+ and J7 Pro in pink are now available in the Philippines for PHP 19,990 and PHP 15,990, respectively. 

To know more about the new Samsung Galaxy J7+ and J7 Pro, visit the Samsung Galaxy Studio located in Taguig City, or go online and visit facebook.com/SamsungPH or samsung.com/ph.

My Pope Philippines Magazine Jan-Feb 2018 to make your #happinessgoals come true

Start the year bright and light as My Pope Philippines welcomes 2018 with a feel-good issue.

Live , Laugh, Love as you browse through the pages of My Pope Philippines January - February 2018 issue and you will learn more on how to actively seek and be grateful on the blessings and good things that comes your way. 

As the love month just around the corner, this issue will clue you all in on the secret to smoother and more harmonious life by discovering the five love languages which affects all types of relationships between family members, friends and lovers. This will share the romantic journeys of three featured married couples who were blessed by none other than Lolo Kiko!

Tickle your fancy with the pope’s funny side, and his confidence in the uplifting power of laughter. 

And there's more! Inside the My Pope Philippines issue, you can also find a My Pope Kids mini magazine - shares tips on how to bond with your kids. It can be a field trip, playing cool games or creating your own stuff. There will also some trivia to add on to that knowledge and values raising your kids.

"You have so much to be positive about."

Be inspired and you will make all your #happinessgoals come true with My Pope Philippines’ heartfelt and inspirational advices.

My Pope Philippines Magazine Jan-Feb 2018 issue available on all National Bookstore branches, 7- eleven and partner newsstands nationwide for only Php 85 per copy. 

For more details, you may contact My Pope Philippines in 0917 7111 818 or email subscription@mypope.com.ph.

Visit and follow My Pope Philippines‘ social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, you can use hashtag - #mypopeph

Asia Brewery Donates Drinking Water to Displaced Families in Albay

Lucio Tan-owned Asia Brewery, Inc. (ABI) donated more than 60,000 bottles of Absolute Distilled Drinking Water to families displaced by the recent eruption of Mayon Volcano in Albay. Volunteers from ABI helped distribute the distilled water to residents of Sto. Domingo, Guinobatan and Camalig in coordination with LGUs.

A report from DSWD indicates that these are three out of four barangays that are holding the most number of affected families with Camalig having 2,492; Guinobatan with 1,413; and Sto. Domingo with 1,844 – or a total of 31,477 individuals as of January 2018. ABI expressed its continuous support in giving the affected families in and out of evacuation centers access to clean, potable water should the situation requires, including those from other affected barangays.

Regal tells a fresh 'Feb-Ibig' tale via "My Fairy Tail Love Story"

One of this 2018's best movies to watch out for  - the Regal's "MY FAIRY TAIL LOVE STORY" 

This Valentine's Day, prepare to celebrate extraordinarily inside the cinemas as Regal Entertainment Inc. treats the lovers and the singles with a not-so-ordinary tale of love through its latest offering, "My Fairy Tail Love Story."

Topbilled by Janella Salvador and Elmo Magalona, the film will take moviegoers to a journey under the sea as Janella's character, the pampered princess, Chantel was cursed to be a mermaid who could not speak but can only sing to air her thoughts.

Popularly known as the ElNella loveteam, Janella and Elmo's onscreen chemistry has been recognized by fans and critics since their team-up was launched in 2016 via primetime series "Born For You" on ABS-CBN. Since then, the two talentend showbiz progenies (Elmos is the son of the late OPM legend Francis Magalona; Janella is the daughter of actress-singer Jenine Desiderio) have been enjoying the limelight as one of their generation's hottest loveteams.

After several TV specials and blockbuster movies, ElNella is now ready to take a new project with an extraordinary story.

"Our movie will remind everyone how thoughts and wishes could be so powerful," said Janella. "Chantel's story will open our eyes not only to the beauty of the marine life but to the real beauty of our own lives and the people who love us unconditionally."

Elmo, meanwhile, shared his excitement on how the audience will react to their not-so-ordinary movie. 

"While we join our characters in their quest to figure out how Chantel could be turned back to a human again, we will all surely be proud of this film that has just the right Disney feels that will make us remember all our happy feelings as a kid," said Elmo who plays Noah the bestfriend of Chantel.

On the other hand, another lead star of the movie, Kiko Estrada described "My Fairy Tail Love Story" as a brave Valentine's Day movie that will courageously go head to head with several international movies that will hit the cinemas on the same playdate as their movie.

"We believe that what will set us apart from the foreign films is our story, which is closest to the hearts of Pinoy viewers," said Kiko who plays Ethan, Chantel's crush. "We'll tackle family, friends and the challenges that ordinary Filipinos face. It's something that we can all connect to, especially to millennials like us who are still exploring life and finding out the real meaning of true love." 

Movie Synopsis:

MY FAIRY TAIL LOVE STORY is a twist to the usual fairy tale romance. In our story, Chantel is a spoiled brat who did not heed warnings against disturbing a coral formation under the sea. Because of this, she wakes up discovering she has been turned into a mermaid. With the help of her best friend Noah, Chantel tries to break the curse, thinking that the answer lies in that most magical of solutions: true love’s kiss from a Prince Charming. Chantel pursues DJ Ethan, a self-proclaimed “Prince of Electronic Dance Music,” much to the chagrin of Noah. But even as Ethan and Chantel supposedly find love, and even as Noah finds the courage to profess his true feelings for Chantel, our cursed heroine soon discovers that love is not as simple as fairy tales make it out to be. 

Directed by Perci Intalan, "My Fairy Tail Love Story" stars Janella Salvador as Chantel, Elmo Magalona as Noah and Kiko Estrada as Ethan. Also casts include Kiray Celis as Missy, Dimples Romana as Natasha, Dominic Ochoa as Robert, Kakai Bautista as Myrna, Rubi Rubi as Nana Gurang, Kaladkaren Davila as herself with Dino Pastrano

Experience a unique romantic tale of love this Valentine's Day by watching "My Fairy Tail Love Story" as it hits cinemas nationwide on February 14.

For more information and latest updates about "My Fairy Tail Love Story," simply visit Regal’s official social media accounts: Facebook.com/ RegalEntertainmentInc/, Twitter.com/regalfilms, Instagram.com/regalfilms50, and Youtube.com/RegalCinema.

Ms. Charo Santos Acting In “Ang Babaeng Humayo” Is Oscar Worthy

Ms. Charo Santos performance in Lav Diaz’ masterpiece “Ang Babaeng Humayo” (“The Woman who Left”) should have gotten an Oscar nomination, according to US film critic Glenn Heath Jr. of San Diego City Beat.

In his piece titled “The best film performances snubbed by Oscar” published online, Glenn enlisted names of superb actors and actresses as a way to “pay respect to the unsung roles the Academy failed to recognize” this year.

Rage, empathy, heartache, joy: This performance has it all,” wrote Glenn.

“Director Lav Diaz convinced one of Filipino cinema’s titanic figures to return to the big screen for this brilliant, nearly four-hour character study about a scorned woman, released from prison after serving 30 years, who traverses the countryside looking for her missing son,” he added.

Glenn also noted Lav’s famed long takes that helped establish deeper emotional stakes in the film “with the camera pinned to Renata’s facial expressions as they change slowly over time.”

Other names included in the list were Salma Hayek for “Beatriz at Dinner,” Nahuel Perez Biscayart for “BPM,” Tiffany Haddish for “Girls Trip,” Kris Avedisian for “Donald Cried,” Harris Dickinson for “Beach Rats,” Ahn Seo-hyun for “Okja,”Robert Pattinson for “Good Time,” and Millicent Simmonds for “Wonderstruck.”

“Ang Babaeng Humayo” is Charo’s movie comeback after serving as president of ABS-CBN. The film brought honor to the country as the first Filipino film to win the Golden Lion or the top prize in the annual Venice Film Festival in Italy.

Earlier this week, Charo’s co-star John Lloyd Cruz also received a best supporting actor nomination also for “Ang Babaeng Humayo” at the 15th International Cinephile Society Awards. He is competing against Willem Dafoe (“The Florida Project”), Armie Hammer (“Call Me by your Name”), Barry Keoghan (“The Killing of a Sacred Deer”), Michael Stuhlbarg (“Call Me by Your Name”) and Arnold Valois (“BPM”).

“Ang Babaeng Humayo” was produced by ABS-CBN’s Cinema One Originals and Sine Olivia.

Uncovering The Secrets Of Vivo’s Success In 2017

There was just no stopping Vivo this 2017. The global smartphone brand proved to be the fastest growing in terms of popularity amongst the young and the hip crowd in the Philippines, settling itself on the third spot in the market beyond brands Apple, Huawei, LG, and ASUS. To date, Vivo has at least 1.1 million users and 5,200 stores in the Philippines.

But before finding fame in the Philippines in early 2016, Vivo has already been named as one of the top 5 global smartphone brands and observed the highest year-over-year growth of 32% in global shipments. Vivo’s success remains unprecedented with 200 million Vivo global users and 19 overseas markets in 2017.

What made Vivo successful?

Vivo cares about its users, pushing the brand to constantly innovate and improve user experience. Vivo maintains six research and development centers and continuously improves their products. In order to ensure its top position in the technology and mobile phone arena, Vivo established a technical partnership and patent sharing with leading telecommunications equipment company Qualcomm.

In an aim to provide its users mostly the young, selfie-centric generation, Vivo launched the world-leading 24MP front camera one of the industry’s firsts with a special selfie soft light to cater to constant need to document one’s experiences anytime, anywhere, even in dimly lit environments.

Vivo took Sports marketing seriously in 2017

Vivo signed up NBA superstar Stephen Curry in mid 2017 to represent its equally first-rate brand. Likewise, the big-ticket brand became the official sponsor of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia which it heavily advertised in the entirety of 2017. In the Philippines, Vivo supported various sports events as co-presenter and sponsor of ABS-CBN NBA Philippines Season 2016 and 2017 and Season 2017 and 2018 of the NCAA Men’s Basketball and UAAP Men’s Basketball Season 80.

Entertainment, lifestyle, and fashion were a spotlight for Vivo in 2017

Vivo’s entrance into the entertainment, lifestyle, and fashion scene were quite eventful in 2017. During the grand launch of the Vivo V7+, the biggest celebrities were formally introduced as the ambassadors for the brand with Kathryn Bernardo, Daniel Padilla, and Julie Anne San Jose headlining the roster of these star influencers. All in all, Vivo Philippines launched 25 local brand endorsers: Maymay Entrata, BOYBANDPH, Kisses Delavin, Chienna Filomeno,Darren Espanto, Tony Labrusca, Inigo Pascual, Ashley Rivera, Barbie Forteza, Maris Racal, Kira Balinger, Loisa Andalio, Paul Salas, KZ Tandingan, Andrea Brillantes, TJ Monterde, Sassa Dagdag, McCoy De Leon, Sue Ramirez,Verniece Enciso, Joyce Pring, and Jason Dy.

Vivo also served as co-presenter of the 2018 Mega Fashion Week Spring Summer with their brand influencers Kathryn Bernardo and Kisses Delavin headlining the stylish event.

In order to reach out to more of the younger populace, Vivo mall and school tours were also in abundance with 59 mall tours nationwide featuring the Vivo brand influencers and 19 school tours in various colleges and universities in and out of Manila featuring the best bands and music artists.

Vivo helps, heals, and cares

In December 2017, Vivo launched a touching tribute video for the freedom fighters of Marawi which garnered a total of 2.2 million views on the official Vivo Philippines Facebook page and 91,000 interactions. To follow through with their gratitude for the selfless heroism of the soldiers, Vivo paid tribute by way of a pre-Christmas CSR activity at the AFP Hospital. Vivo Philippines volunteers and Vivo brand influencers dropped by to spend time with the wounded soldiers of Marawi to give moral support. The Vivo group offered simple tokens and a bit of entertainment to the delight of the soldiers and their families.

Vivo, indeed, maintained its momentum in the top tier of the mobile phone industry. This success can be attributed to the brands accurate consumer insight and creative marketing strategy. Vivo is relatable to the global young and hip consumers and is a reachable and serviceable brand anytime, anywhere.

New year, new car with GoWithCiti

Make your dream of acquiring a brand new car come true at the start of 2018 by joining Citi’s GoWithCiti promo. Drive home one of three BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer MPVs or be one of the ten winners of a luxury watch worth P250,000 from Lucerne!

“We always want to make it more fun and exciting for our clients. With the GoWithCiti campaign, we look forward to seeing our clients enjoy our products and services, as well as the perks and amazing prizes that we prepared for them,” said Vishal Kadian, Acting Head of Cards and Loans, Citibank, N.A Philippines.

Simply use your Citi credit card until January 31, 2018 to earn raffle entries. Each swipe earns you one raffle entry so the more you swipe, the more chances you have of winning. There’s no minimum spend required!

Winners will be drawn on February 14, 2018, and will be notified via phone or email. They can claim their prizes at Citibank Square by presenting the official notification letter from Citi, card used for the winning transaction, two valid IDs and valid TIN ID. 

Plus, register at www.winwithciti.com to earn even more raffle entries and win over 100,000 instant prizes. Simply create an account using any active email address and your unique log-in password and earn play codes every time you swipe your Citi credit card. Each play code can win you Nike Park, Vikings, Bistro Group, Bruno’s Barbers or Mrs. Fields eGIFTs, an e-voucher from ZALORA, UBER credits for P50 off on your next 2 rides, and a 3-month subscription at IFlix. If no instant prize is won, you will get ten additional raffle entries for the raffle.

To redeem your instant prizes, just go to the My Rewards page on your www.winwithciti.com account for detailed instructions. 

Start the year right and win amazing prizes. GoWithCiti now!

For more information, log on to www.citibank.com.ph/bmw.

Celebrating a Legacy Built on Science and Love JOHNSON’S® celebrates its 125th year through year-long Special activities and promotions

A well-known and well-loved brand, JOHNSON’S® has been a household name for many years, best care always for for babies and everyone in the whole family. 

JOHNSON’S® has been pioneering and setting global standards in baby skin care for families globally since many can remember. This year marks a special milestone as JOHNSON’S® celebrates 125 years with a series of activities to celebrate its legacy in creating a safer world for babies and their families in the Philippines.

“JOHNSON’S® 125-year legacy is our dedication to giving our best for mothers and babies,” shares Ms. Bessie Colet Campillo, Johnson’s Marketing Manager. “Just as mothers learn from babies, so does Johnson’s. We understand what great lengths mothers go through to give their best for their babies, and that is the same effort we emulate in all the products we develop.  Our products have always been some of the most rigorously tested and safe, globally, and created specifically to care for a baby’s unique needs,” she adds.

“A baby’s needs are very much different than our own. Each sense, from sight to touch, and through all the moments of play and exploration that our babies go through as they develop, are opportunities to nurture their happy and healthy development. All these moments are also opportunities for us to empower parents to maximize bonding with their babies to nurture the best development possible,” she concludes.

In celebration of all the lives JOHNSON’S® has had the privilege to touch, and in honor of all the mothers in the Philippines, the brand has lined up various activities and programs starting January 25, 2018. This will be kicked off with the 125 Years Anthem Video to be launched on Facebook and YouTube on January 25 showcasing Johnson’s dedication throughout the years, followed by a series of online initiatives, special promotions in-store and in e-commerce, as well as on-ground efforts and events to celebrate with every Filipino mom who has grown up with the brand. 

Truly at the heart of the JOHNSON’S® Brand is the commitment to helping create a world made better for moms and babies. All the activities of the brand for 2018 aim to continue building on the vision and legacy of leaving the world better for the benefit of the nation’s babies, and to give back to the families whose lives they have had the privilege of being a part of over the years. 

This also comes with great commitment to continue to always give their best care for years to come.

For more information and updates on the Johnson’s 125 Years Campaign, please visit the brand’s official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/JohnsonsBabyPhilippines.

Boracay businesses learn from the experts - Globe myBusiness digital tools workshop teaches SMEs how to stand out

 Boracay is undoubtedly one of the areas most densely populated by sellers, thanks to its unstoppable and diverse market. But how can one retailer stand out in a sea of shops and vendors, many of which are selling the same thing?

To help business owners with this dilemma, Globe myBusiness brought its tried and tested digital business solutions to the country’s prime tourist destination through a four-day workshop titled Digital Tools to Future-Proof Your Business at The Tides Hotel.

Well-known entrepreneurs and inspirational speakers were tapped to share their experiences to motivate the participants.

Francis Miranda, an advertising consultant and an entrepreneur himself, has spent much of his life doing two things he loves most: helping businesses and guiding others with theirs; and travelling to as many places as he can.

With one of his beliefs being to “tailor fit your life to how you want it,” he’s a firm believer in the idea that success comes to those who actively work for it and take all the opportunities they are given.

He discussed many of the learnings he’d picked up over the years and detailed the following common trends happening across business in the Philippines today:

1. Demand for Personalization.

Customers are increasingly demanding products and services that are made for their unique needs and lifestyles, thus, businesses should make their products cater more specifically to each customer and make their patrons feel appreciated and special.

2. Rise of the Omni-channel and the Importance of an Online Presence.

Customers these days tend to research online and may already have certain expectation or judgment before visiting the physical shop. The best businesses provide a seamless and convenient shopping experience whether online or offline.

3. Automated Business Operations.

To work around the rising needs of customers, business owners have gone digital as well. While the prospect may sound complicated to entrepreneurs who are new to the idea of digitization, it’s actually the opposite -- digital business owners are simplifying their operations by automating work processes that otherwise would be taxing or time-consuming.

4. Power of Customer Advocacy.

Customers love to take photos and post reviews in order to get Likes and Comments.  They serve as free advertising that drives potential customers toward the brand -- hence the importance of providing a “wow” experience to ensure positive reviews.  

When it comes to creating the ultimate “wow” experience, Francis has only three guidelines: extraordinary, progressive, and consistent. Make sure customers’ experience is beyond that of an ordinary shopping trip, treatment or procedure. Make sure it becomes progressively better as time goes by. And finally, make sure that quality never falters and can be relied upon.

Other speakers similarly presented the many ways a business can go digital and make the most use of Globe myBusiness’ products and solutions to enhance business operations and profit. But they put a little more on the table by talking about how working in the service industry isn’t just a matter of having the best tools but is also about putting in the best effort.

ECAMIA Hotel Management Corporation President Ana Marie Alcantara gave the audience an inside look at how she started, ran and managed her hotel business and gave some tips for working in the tourism industry. Among these tips are:

• Being tech-savvy.

One does not have to be a digital genius, but must know (and provide) digital means for  customers to find the business, give feedback, and do what they love most: share through social media.

• Catering to a diverse market.

From millennials to digital nomads to people traveling for “bleisure” (a merging of business and leisure), the market has become more diverse than ever so a business must be able to provide for people from all walks of life.

• Working with and not against the competition.

In a somewhat surprising statement, Ana Marie claimed that when customers come in asking for something her hotel can’t offer, she leads them to places that will, even if these other hotels are actually her competitors. On their side, they do the same thing and refer customers to her place as well.

• Being yourself.

Being unique is the only way to set one apart so customers will not go elsewhere. As she says, “You have to be authentic. You have to have your own unique selling proposition.”

CJ Juntereal, on the other hand, talked about working as a food columnist. She highlighted the one thing all businesses should prioritize as much as product or service quality: a great customer experience.

“Investing in customer service is an act of bravery because the returns don’t happen right away,” she admits. But she proves that this is definitely an investment worth making, saying, “Customer satisfaction is the prime driver especially in the hotel and restaurant industry. Without customer satisfaction, there is nothing for your hotel or restaurant.”

Her tips for achieving this satisfaction included knowing the market well by studying data analytics, allowing customers to be as digital as they want to be, making it easy for people to reach the business, setting one apart by creating an amazing experience, and being creative with digital tools to enhance online presence.

Naturally, to achieve all these things, it’s best to get help from the right source. As Francis says, “Adapting to the future is all about choosing the right tools.” Thus, Globe myBusiness’ products and solutions are here to MSMEs with any and every business concern.

Globe myBusiness is a business unit under Globe Telecom which caters to MSMEs not only for their telco needs but also for solutions that will help create ease of business operations.

Ready to digitize your business? Visit https://mybusiness.globe.com.ph/restaurants-and-cafes/ to learn more

Perfect songs, happy moments, feel the love at "Dionne Warwick: A Valentine Concert” at Solaire

We know we will never love this way again, 

that is why this season of romance, 

be part of “Dionne Warwick: A Valentine Concert” 

to be held on February 13 and 14, 2018 

at the Solaire Grand Ballroom.

Even if she’s had her share of Grammy trophies and triumphs, Billboard achievements, and a great number of popular ballads, Dionne Warwick humbly declares,

"The word or label 'Diva' is an operatic term and I do not sing opera, therefore I cannot and do not accept being called as such."

She is revered as a singing legend and popular music icon, who to many of her admirers is gifted with a melodic and soulful voice. Her songs continue to touch the hearts of people who believe in romance, love, friendship, and forever.

On February 13 and 14, 2018 at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort and Casino, the charismatic chanteuse headlines a two-night concert.

"I've been to Manila several times...Manila audiences are wonderful, they have always seemed to enjoy my show," says the singing legend. 

For her Valentine concert, people will get to enjoy, "Songs I am expected to sing and a few surprises…it will just be two nights of wonderful musical evenings."

Be ready to be enthralled and mesmerized when you hear her famous songs such as “Don’t Make Me Over,” “Walk On By,” “Do You Know The Way to San Jose?,” “Alfie,” and “I’ll Never Love This Way Again” and other signature songs.

“I’ll Never Love This Way Again”

She shares, "All of my songs are close to my heart as they are like my children. The success of these songs; I attribute both to the wonderful composers and lyricists."

 “ Say A Little Prayer ” and other songs

What are the ingredients for a great song? Warwick replies, "Lyrics first, as I must believe in the words I sing, and of course, a memorable melody."

The musical icon has formed a long and successful partnership with songwriters Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Warwick ranks among the 40 biggest hit makers of the entire rock era, based on the Billboard Hot 100 Pop Singles Charts, with 56 of the legendary American singer’s singles making the Billboard Hot 100 between 1962 and 1998 and 80 singles making all Billboard charts combined. 

For Bacharach, Warwick is "A woman who has a tremendously strong side and a delicacy when singing softly--- like miniature ships in bottles.”

Warwick received her first Grammy in 1968 for “Do You Know the Way to San Jose?” and her second in 1970 for “I’ll Never Fall In Love Again.”

Under Arista Records, Warwick won the Grammy for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for “I’ll Never Love This Way Again” and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for “Déjà Vu” in 1980. She became the first female artist in the history of the Grammys to win in two categories on the same year.

In 1985, Warwick contributed her voice to the multi-Grammy winning song “We Are The World” which also spent four consecutive weeks at number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. On the same year, she recorded the American Foundation for AIDS Research benefit song “That’s What Friends Are For” with Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Gladys Knight. 

In a career that spans five decades, Dionne Warwick’s melodic and soulful voice remains unmatched. 

To Bacharach, David and the multitude of people she had the pleasure of working with, Warwick enthuses, "I am forever grateful."

To newcomers in the industry, her advice, "Be true to yourself and what you want...if you can think it, you can do it."

"I am truly looking forward to coming again to Manila and I do hope all of you will be at the concert to enjoy," says Warwick. 

We know we will never love this way again, that is why this season of romance, be part of “Dionne Warwick: A Valentine Concert” to be held on February 13 and 14, 2018 at the Solaire Grand Ballroom.

For tickets, please visit https://www.solaireresort.com or call Ticketworld at 8919999.

Dionne Warwick, the charismatic chanteuse headlines a two-night concert.n February 13 and 14, 2018 at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort and Casino.