Vitamin C and Zinc are Important in Battling ‘Immunity Gap’ Among Kids

Tweet

Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) strengthens children's immunity,

whether they're sick or healthy.

Here’s Why Vitamin C and Zinc are Important in Battling ‘Immunity Gap’ Among Kids

Constantly worrying over your child’s health is not an overreaction, but simply a natural manifestation of parental love. When there is more than one valid cause for such concerns, however, it may be time to check and see if it’s a case of “immunity gap.”

Studies suggest that more and more children deal with “immune debt,” also known as the “immunity gap,” or the state of insufficient immunity response regardless of their health condition. When sick, for instance, the gap refers to children’s decreased levels of essential nutrients like Vitamin C and Zinc due to infections, affecting their ability to naturally recover from illnesses. Meanwhile, when children are well, the gap refers to an underdeveloped immune system resulting from the lack of proper nutrition, timely vaccination, and exposure to pathogens. This results in children’s higher susceptibility to infections while hindering optimal growth and development across all key growth stages and milestones.

Several factors contribute to the “immunity gap” phenomenon. One of which is the deprioritization of vitamin intake, wherein parents instead give their children therapeutic medications when they are sick, and other perceived alternatives such as milk and probiotic drinks when they are well.

The drop in vitamin usage and the rise in "immunity gap" among kids point to one thing: Vitamins matter, and so does the right choice. As the #1 doctor-prescribed immunity vitamin for kids, Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) serves as a partner of moms in helping address children’s immunity gap. The brand aids in strengthening kids’ immunity for their overall growth and development while keeping them healthy when well, allowing them to recover faster when sick.

Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) helps provide children with strong protection with the powerful combination of Vitamin C and Zinc, which play important roles in nutrition and immune defense. A meta-analysis by scientific journal BMC Public Health shows that Vitamin C can reduce severe cold symptoms by 26%, while research by the United States National Library of Medicine found that Zinc helps kids with pneumonia recover faster and shortens hospital stays.

Moreover, Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) is the only brand made with patented unique ZincPlus® Technology that presents the stable combination of Vitamin C and Zinc, ensuring that kids get the right dose they need, regardless of how they are feeling. It also helps speed up recovery by boosting immune cells to fight viruses and bacteria when kids are sick. When they're healthy, it helps strengthen their immunity, supporting their growth and development during crucial stages.

If you feel your child suffers from an immunity gap, go for Ascorbic Acid + Zinc (Ceelin® Plus) to help strengthen their immunity to maintain overall health when they are well and quicken the recovery process when they are sick, together with proper diet and exercise.

Know more about Ceelin by following its social media accounts on Facebook,

https://www.facebook.com/UnilabCeelin; Instagram, @ceelin.ph; and TikTok, @unilabceelin.

----------------------------------------------------

References:

● https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4949856/

● https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38082300/

● Calder, P. C., Berger, M. M., Gombart, A. F., McComsey, G. A., Martineau, A. R., & Eggersdorfer, M. (2022). Micronutrients to Support Vaccine Immunogenicity and Efficacy. Vaccines, 10(4), 568. https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10040568

● Cohen, R., Levy, C., Rybak, A., Angoulvant, F., Ouldali, N., & Grimprel, E. (2023). Immune debt: Recrudescence of disease and confirmation of a contested concept. Infectious diseases now, 53(2), 104638. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.idnow.2022.12.003

● Hemilä, H., & Chalker, E. (2013). Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2013(1), CD000980. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD000980.pub4

● Hemilä, H., & Chalker, E. (2023). Vitamin C reduces the severity of common colds: a meta-analysis. BMC public health, 23(1), 2468. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-023-17229-8

● Qasemzadeh, M. J., Fathi, M., Tashvighi, M., Gharehbeglou, M., Yadollah-Damavandi, S., Parsa, Y., & Rahimi, E. (2014). The effect of adjuvant zinc therapy on recovery from pneumonia in hospitalized children: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Scientifica, 2014, 694193. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/694193

● Rerksuppaphol, S., & Rerksuppaphol, L. (2019). A randomized controlled trial of zinc supplementation in the treatment of acute respiratory tract infection in Thai children. Pediatric reports, 11(2), 7954. https://doi.org/10.4081/pr.2019.7954

● Zhang L. (2024). From imprecise "immune debt" to nuanced "immune shortage"?. Infectious diseases now, 54(5), 104894. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.idnow.2024.104894

Abbott’s Growth Watch Empowers Parents to Beat Childhood Stunting

Tweet

Global statistics show childhood malnutrition is still a persistent health burden, including in the Philippines. According to the Department of Health, 1 in 4 children aged five and below are short for their age or stunted.  Abbott is increasing awareness and working together with mom celebrities and communities to tackle stunting among children in the Philippines.

Abbott’s Growth Watch initiative shines a light on childhood stunting, a form of malnutrition. It aims to empower parents to screen for and recognize stunting in their children so that they can improve their children’s nutrition, if needed.

Stunting can challenge a child’s development, impact their overall health and limit their future potential. Children affected by stunting can be at risk of significant immune deficiencies, compromised cognitive function, behavioral problems, diminished bone health, and decreased muscle mass. The Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition 2023-2028 identified poor feeding practices and low nutrition literacy among the causes of malnutrition in the country. Additionally, 2 in 3 Filipino moms don’t recognize stunting as an important child development issue.

Dr. Jose Dimaano Jr.

“There is a clear need to educate parents on the prevalence and impact of childhood stunting on growth and development,” explains Dr. Jose Dimaano Jr., nutrition medical affairs director for Abbott in Pacific Asia. “Early identification of growth issues and quick intervention for children found to be at risk of nutrition deficiency can have a profound impact on the fight against stunting. This is why Abbott is taking a multidisciplinary approach in supporting parents by working with communities and healthcare practitioners to provide tools and information to spot the signs of malnutrition and take action.”

In collaborating with celebrity moms Chesca Kramer, Nadine Samonte, Divine Lee, Nina Corpuz, influencers and online mom communities, Abbott intends to increase awareness of stunting and support parents with tools and educational resources that can help children reach their full growth potential.

”Since its inception in 2021, Growth Watch has educated and reached more than 161,000 families, and the goal is to double the reach by the end of next year,” said Angelico Escobar, general manager of Abbott’s nutrition business in the Philippines. ”Abbott is driven by our mission to help children have a healthy start and reach their optimal growth. We know that malnutrition is complex and affects children’s growth across all socioeconomic classes. The work of Growth Watch is one of Abbott’s efforts to fight global malnutrition and to help children achieve their growth potential through measurement and proper nutrition.”

In 2021, Abbott launched the Abbott Center for Malnutrition Solutions, an initiative to reduce malnutrition. The center, a collaboration between Abbott and external experts and partners, is focused on the identification, treatment and prevention of malnutrition for the most vulnerable populations in the world including children, aging adults and under-resourced populations. The Growth Watch initiative also contributes toward Abbott’s 2030 Sustainability Plan goal to transform care for malnutrition, chronic and infectious diseases.

As part of the Growth Watch initiative, parents and guardians are invited to join mom communities to establish the habit of measuring their children’s height, and provide proper nutrition to safeguard the growth, well-being and development of children across the country. Tools and resources available include:

● PediaSure Plus Growth Calculator

● PediaSure Plus Height Chart

● Free growth assessment and nutrition counseling

Nutrition plays a crucial role in addressing malnutrition and stunting challenges. Addressing undernutrition early can help mitigate growth issues and ensure children reach their full developmental capacity. For children who do not get enough nutrients through food alone, nutrition supplements, such as PediaSure Plus, can help fill some of the gaps. The oral nutritional supplement, recommended by doctors, is formulated with 37 key growth nutrients including natural vitamin K2 and arginine to support 1.5 times faster growth in 8 weeks and strong bones.

For more information on the growth tools and resources, visit https://www.family.abbott/ph-en/pediasure/tools-and-resources.html.

For free growth assessment and nutrition counseling, register online or by calling Abbott’s

Careline – Metro Manila: (02) 8995-1555 and PLDT toll free hotline: 1-800-10-995-1555.

MaxiLife helps Make-A-Wish Philippines Kids Live Life to the Max

Tweet

MaxiLife, in cooperation with Make-A-Wish Philippines, granted the wishes of children with critical illnesses at The Mind Museum in Bonifacio Global City last Saturday, October 14, 2023. This served as a testament to the transformative power of wishes coming true, underscoring both organizations’ commitment to uplifting lives and safeguarding wishes.

In celebration of MaxiLife's 1 year anniversary, the company has collaborated with Make-A-Wish Philippines to help continue its mission of protecting Filipino's aspirations for lifelong peace of mind. After a fun day at the Mind Museum in BGC, all the wish childrens wishes were granted thanks to the hard work of both companies' volunteers.

For children battling critical illnesses, the power of wishes is more than just a source of happiness but is a source of strength.

"In every child's wish, we see an opportunity to make a difference. We believe that each moment counts. We are not providing financial support for their medical needs, but instead inspire hope through granting their wishes and empower them to wish bigger. Together with the Make-A-Wish Philippines, we are committed to fulfilling their wishes and make them a reality. This is the essence of MaxiLife, to be present, to uplift, and to safeguard the dreams and life aspirations of Filipinos, even in the face of uncertainty," said Mervin L. Pobre, PhD, President, and CEO of MaxiLife.

MaxiLife's Chief Revenue Officer Jun Marasigan, spending time with the children in need at the Mind Museum at BGC last Saturday, October 14. In celebration of MaxiLife's 1 year anniversary, the company has collaborated with Make-A-Wish Philippines to help continue its mission of protecting Filipino's aspirations for lifelong peace of mind.

Making Wishes Come True

According to a 2021 report by the United Nations Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME), over 60,000 children die annually before their fifth birthday because of medical complications in the Philippines. Despite this, numerous children in critical conditions still wish to grow up and having fun with their friends and family.

However, the medical treatment the children undergo is not only financially draining, but also emotionally and psychologically tumultuous for many families.

This is why it has become imperative for life insurance companies such as MaxiLife to provide these families with a chance to live the way they should. As the company's purpose and vision is for every single Filipino to choose to live their dreams with full confidence knowing that they are financially protected in every moment. Partnering with Make-A-Wish Philippines and granting children’s wishes at the event is an initial step towards a bigger goal for the company - to empower Filipinos, especially in the middle class and working class, to focus on funding their life aspirations, with MaxiLife as a financial safety net against life’s uncertainties.

“MaxiLife is the best partner for this event as they put kids in need as one of their priorities and are spreading awareness about the opportunity to be the catalyst of a life-changing moment to a child,” said Aleah B. Ortiz, Executive Director of Make-A-Wish Philippines

Make-A-Wish Philippines' Senior Program Officer, Danimei Everett, leads the wish granting program for all the children in need at the Mind Museam in BGC, Taguig. celebration of Maxilife's 1 year anniversary, the company has collaborated with Make-A-Wish Philippines to help continue its mission of protecting Filipino's aspirations for lifelong peace of mind.

Granting the best day ever

The event brought together 10 children with critical illnesses as well as their parents, guardians and 15 MaxiLife volunteers for a fun-filled afternoon at The Mind Museum’s galleries and exhibits. The children not only had time to explore the interactive and educational sections but also took part in exciting games all throughout the venue. After the tour, the children were in for a surprise as MaxiLife and Make-A-Wish Philippines brought out a huge variety of gifts that the children had all wished for. At the end of the day, although many volunteers and children were hesitant to say goodbye to their new friends, they all would not forget this very special day.

“MaxiLife’s key objective as a life insurance company is to encourage preparedness and promote awareness of the real possibility of unexpected critical illnesses so that when it occurs, the insured person and their family can be free of financial burden and able to focus more on recovery,” said Pobre.

-----------------------------

About MaxiLife

MaxiLife is a comprehensive life insurance company that offers new innovations in customer experience, affordability, and availability following the leadership experiences of its founders. MaxiLife was formed through the synergy of Maxicare, the biggest HMO in the Philippines, Gokongwei Group and Equicom Group to deliver a comprehensive set of financial solutions for individuals and their families, addressing both potential healthcare expenses and unexpected life events.

Website: www.maxilife.com.ph

World Vision brings sponsors and former sponsored children together for the first appreciation event this year 2023

Tweet

The life you touch may just be the one sitting next to you. World Vision in the Philippines recently brought together over 100 sponsors and donors in a joyous and emotional gathering - the first face-to-face Loyal Donor Appreciation Event since the pandemic.

Held in Quezon City and hosted by World Vision Education Technical Program Manager Geomel Jetonzo and GMA news anchor Mav Gonzales, the event celebrated the generosity and loyalty of sponsors who have and are still supporting World Vision’s child sponsorship program. Over 50 sponsors were recognized for their exceptional support, having sponsored children for five, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years!

World Vision team and loyal child sponsors proudly stand together for the children

Marie Demafelis - a child sponsor for 25 years and former Strategy Management Director of WVDF – feels grateful for the opportunity to help transform the lives of the most vulnerable children. “Over the years, I’ve attended many Loyal Sponsors events. I encourage other sponsors to join as you can listen to the moving testimonies of all the children. You can see firsthand how you’re able to help them and make a difference in their lives,” she shared.

World Vision National Director Rommel Fuerte shares their recent success with the presentation of their annual report

In its 2022 Annual Report, World Vision shared that it reached 3,243,854 children. “We at World Vision are truly humbled and blessed to have received our sponsors and children’s unwavering trust, confidence, and loyalty as we implement our programs, projects, and advocacies through the Philippines, especially in the most difficult and vulnerable places,” shares Rommel Fuerte, National Director of World Vision in the Philippines. “This event is a very special one as we'd like to take this time to express our sincerest, heartfelt thank yous’ and gratitude to our dearest sponsors and partners for their amazing commitment to child sponsorship.”

In a moving segment of the program, children who are registered under World Vision’s child sponsorship program as well as former sponsored children, led by Rear Admiral Armand Balilo of the Philippine Coast Guard, shared their stories of success and resilience, further inspiring guests.

“The Lord’s plan for us is to give us hope and a future. This is what World Vision’s program – as well as my sponsors – have given me. I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart for extending your grace and love to these children. Looking back, I can say with certainty that the Lord has, indeed, given me a future and hope,” shared Richard Supat, one of the organization’s former sponsored children.

 

To date, World Vision in the Philippines has an operational presence in 28 area programs with more than 56,000 registered children. If you’d like to become a sponsor and use your blessings, you can do so by simply donating Php 25 a day or Php 750 a month. Your generosity can help advance initiatives that focus on children’s education, health and nutrition, child protection, disaster preparedness, economic development, and more.

World Vision Resource Development Director Jun Godornes expresses his gratitude to loyal donors and sponsors.

In his closing remarks, Resource Development Director Jun Godornes emphasized how paying it forward benefits not only the sponsored children but the child sponsors as well. “If you are here, you are blessed. Thank you for being a channel for more blessings.”

Watch the event highlights here: https://youtu.be/Gz1Mjl0zDrQ

Become a proud World Vision Sponsor and read more about our initiatives at www.worldvision.org.ph.

Secure your child’s future with the gift of education through AXA MyLifeChoice

Tweet

When it comes to securing the future of your children, one of the best gifts you can give them is a good education. This is especially true for Filipino parents who believe that being able to send their children to top schools in the country or abroad is a legacy that they can leave to help them achieve their full potential in life

But there’s no denying that costs for education continue to rise every year, especially with inflation at an all-time high. If you are wondering how much you need to save to send your child to their dream school, here are a few of the things you’ll need to consider:

Tuition fees – while some colleges offer free tuition under the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, many of the country’s top universities are private institutions whose tuition fees can cost PHP 100,000 or more, according to a recent report. You also need to account for inflation. According to CHED for AY 2021 - 2022, the national average rate of increase in tuition per unit is 4.74 percent, while the national average rate for other school fees is 10.61 percent per semester. For example, if a parent wants their six-year-old to study in a private university 10 years from now and their preferred university’s tuition is currently at PHP 110,000, it would then be around PHP 285,311 by the time they enroll. When compounded by the time the child reaches their 4th year in college, this would amount to PHP 379,749 per year.

Residence and Transportation – If you are sending your child to a college abroad or far from where you live, you’ll need to consider their daily transportation allowance or even renting a dorm room or condo unit near where they’ll be studying. Dorm rent for sharing with three to four other housemates can go as high as P6,500 around the university belt area.

Gadgets – In today’s digital age, students consider laptops and mobile phones as must-haves for learning. While it’s possible to get a good budget mobile phone for around PHP 10,000, laptops for online classes and other schoolwork can range from PHP 20,000 to 30,000. You’ll also need to allocate budget for your child’s Wi-Fi or data connection.

Books and School Supplies – Finally, allot around PHP 20,000 to 25,000 annually for books and supplies such as notebooks, writing materials, and special equipment that your child will need every semester, as these have also been affected by the rising prices. Take into account as well that not every field has the same amount of expenses. For example, if you’re raising a future doctor, they will take longer to finish their pre-medical course and their medical school education, while science courses may have additional laboratory expenses.

Putting all these costs together, you will easily end up with a budget of over six figures in a year – which is not a sum that can be saved quickly or easily for most. Furthermore, there are considerations that need to be factored in such as unplanned emergencies or in case you pass on. That’s why having a financial solution that protects you from life’s uncertainties is needed so you can focus on working your way to your goals such as securing your child a bright future.

One of the ways to secure your child’s education is to get a comprehensive insurance plan like MyLifeChoice for Education, AXA Philippines’ most flexible insurance and investment plan designed to ensure your child’s education until college no matter what happens. MyLifeChoice empowers customers by enabling them to customize their own plan according to their unique needs and priorities, budget, desired payment term, and protection coverage.

MyLifeChoice for Education ensures your child’s education through Bright Rider Plus, which provides guaranteed payouts in case of the insured’s untimely demise. These payouts will start immediately upon the passing of the insured and can help cover your child's education expenses until graduation. You can also personalize your protection coverage from 7x up to 25x of your basic annual premium.

MyLifeChoice also includes waiver of premium and accident coverage benefits, which means that future payments are waived in case of disablement and cash benefits will be received for injuries due to accidents, respectively. Your plan can also be further enhanced with supplementary benefits to further strengthen your protection coverage depending on your current financial needs.

Available in a 7-year payment term, MyLifeChoice for Education enables you to select from a range of professionally managed funds that are invested locally and globally to create a personalized portfolio that suits your investment profile. Your potential investment earnings can be added on top of your child’s education fund, which he or she can use for his or her future college expenses. To further support you in securing your child’s education, this policy includes a start-up bonus equivalent to 70% of your first-year basic annual premium in an AXA fund of your choice.

“Education is something you can leave behind for your child that they can keep with them forever, but inflation coupled with rising prices of goods requires careful planning from parents now more than ever. Protecting your child’s education fund is possible with the right partner, such as AXA Philippines. With the help of MyLifeChoice for Education, seeing your child march onstage with their diploma need not be a pipe dream,” said Nandy Villar, AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer.

For more information or get a personalized quote, visit axa.com.ph/mylifechoice/education.

Red Ribbon gives love, grants children’s wishes in Christmas outreach

Tweet

Red Ribbon gives love to the children of Alay Pag-Asa Foundation by granting their Christmas wishes

and spending a fun and love-filled day with the kids.

What better way to celebrate Christmas than making children's wishes come true? This holiday season, Red Ribbon brings the magic of Christmas to the children of Alay Pag-Asa Foundation Inc., in Mandaluyong City through an outreach that furthers the brand's purpose of encouraging Filipinos to give love everyday in big and small ways.

The children’s eyes sparkled with joy as they received special boxes that were especially made for each of them. Gifts from their wish lists, Red Ribbon treats, school supplies, and Noche Buena packages were all packed with love by Red Ribbon.

The children were also treated to games, balloon art, and even a magic show. Completing the Christmas party was a table filled with their favorite food and delectable Red Ribbon cakes and pastries.

“Christmas is a very special occasion for us. This is the season when we give love through our cakes and pastries. Today, we are giving love to our community by granting kids their wishes and giving them gifts that we have specially prepared for them,” Joey Dominguez, Red Ribbon President, shared.

Red Ribbon spreads Christmas cheer and gift-giving through a donation to Alay Pag-Asa Foundation, a community-based NGO helping indigent families in Mandaluyong City.

Celebrating moments of love

Alay Pag-Asa Foundation is a community-based NGO helping indigent children, youth & their families in Mandaluyong City. Atty. Eduardo V. Bringas, Alay Pag-Asa Foundation Chairman, thanked Red Ribbon for the generous love that has been extended to them. “We are blessed to have been chosen as a beneficiary of the Red Ribbon Give Love Today program, so that these children can experience the joy of Christmas,” Atty. Bringas said.

“We really wanted to bring to life the brand's mission by giving love today to the kids. Red Ribbon has always been part of Filipino celebrations, and today, we celebrate Christmas with the kids of Alay Pag-Asa,” says Cathleen Capati, Red Ribbon Assistant Vice President and Marketing Head

Christmas is about making others happy with presents and your presence. Give love this season with Red Ribbon cakes and pastries, available at your nearest Red Ribbon branches, or through www.redribbondelivery.com.ph, the official Red Ribbon App, or through Grabfood and Foodpanda

The children of Alay Pag-Asa Foundation each got a gift box containing an item they wished for, Noche Buena packages, toys, school supplies, and Red Ribbon treats.

The children of Alay Pag-Asa Foundation were surprised to see their wishes come to life!

Noche Buena packages, school supplies, and Red Ribbon pastries completed the 

Give Love Today gift boxes

A child from Alay Pag-Asa Foundation with her Christmas wish granted by Red Ribbon

A child beneficiary from Alay Pag-Asa Foundation with her gift from Red Ribbon

Alay Pag-Asa Foundation kids and staff were treated to a buffet of sweet treats from Red Ribbon!

The children happily enjoyed their meals after a fun and love-filled day

PLDT Home, Google launch Be Internet Awesome online series

Tweet

New kid-oriented show aims to teach kids how to be smart, alert, strong, kind, and brave online

Be Internet Awesome’s lead characters - Sam Elora (L) and Robo-berto

Following its partnership announcement to further strengthen efforts in educating Filipino kids and families about internet safety and digital responsibility, the Philippines’ leading home broadband and digital service provider PLDT Home and Google joined forces in creating a kid-oriented video series online.

The Be Internet Awesome online series combines animation and live action — featuring Gen Alpha whiz Sam and his trusty friend Robo-berto in fun-filled yet enlightening adventures on how to be smart, alert, strong, kind, and brave online. The series is based on the values of Google’s Be Internet Awesome global program and is directed by Manny Angeles, an award-winning director and producer of kid-oriented and animated shows.

Available in both English and Filipino in the Philippines, Be Internet Awesome aims to teach children the fundamentals of leading a digital life which includes what kind of information to post on social media and how to deal with cyberbullying among others. This is part of the many efforts of Google to help keep people safe online.

(L-R): PLDT Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business Home Group, Jeremiah de la Cruz; Google Philippines Marketing Head, Gabby Roxas; First Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Product Management and Marketing, John Henri Yanez

“Our children are true digital natives. They grew up with the internet and everything the digital world has to offer. But as they broaden their horizons for discovery and learning, it also exposes them to risks and dangers,” said Jeremiah de la Cruz, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Home Group, PLDT Inc. “Through this original series, we at PLDT Home want to translate the teachings from Google’s Be Internet Awesome program into an entertaining and practical show that children can enjoy watching while learning about online safety early on.”

“PLDT Home’s partnership with Google for Be Internet Awesome aligns with our larger group-wide commitment: to strengthen customer-centricity. At PLDT, we not only find ways to simplify technology and experience for our customers, but we also strive to do business responsibly by putting their safety and well-being at the forefront of all our products and services,” said Alfredo S. Panlilio, President and CEO of PLDT Inc. And Smart Communications, Inc.

In 2021, PLDT also invested over P2 billion in cybersecurity and protection filtering. The country’s largest integrated telco has since been very active in detecting, responding, and preventing both domain and content-level access to child sexual abuse material (CSAM) within the network. PLDT’s Child Protection Platform has blocked almost 300,000 URLs linked CSAM by the end of May and prevented more than a billion attempts to access these illegal sites from November last year to May this year.

“After launching Be Internet Awesome in 2021 in the Philippines, we are glad to have found a like-minded partner in PLDT who champions the same values when it comes to protecting kids online. Through PLDT and more potential partners in the future, we hope to scale Be Internet Awesome and provide more families with a practical way of teaching digital safety and wellness to their children so they can become responsible, confident explorers of the online world,” said Bernadette Nacario, Country Director of Google Philippines.

Actor and TV host KC Montero and family

Stratworks PR Director Mark Christian Parlade and sons

Edu-preneurs and media personalities Edric and Joy Mendoza with their family

(L-R) Actor, singer and writer Franco Laurel and daughter with PLDT Assistant Vice President and Head of Marketing PR

The Be Internet Awesome online series will premiere on the PLDT Home YouTube channel on July 8, 2022.

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals completes a 100 liver transplants in children from the Philippines

Tweet

• 44 girls and 56 boys from the Philippines between 4 months and 15 years have undergone a liver transplant at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals
• These procedures mark an important milestone in strengthening relations between India and the Philippines

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi has reached the landmark of performing 100 liver transplants in children from the Philippines. Aged between 4 months and 15 years, children suffering from various diseases that had resulted in liver failure necessitating a transplant have received a liver transplant.

Despite COVID posing several challenges in the last 2 years, Apollo made sure that children and their families were provided end-to-end assistance in terms of aligning travel permissions while also ascertaining patient safety by arranging special charter flights with a medical team on board to manage any emergencies.

Mr. P Shivakumar, Managing Director – Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, asserted: “Apollo Hospitals leads the way in delivering cross-border care for children. Our approach is aligned with Apollo’s overarching objective of providing prompt delivery of healthcare services, notwithstanding myriad constraints. This becomes even more important when it comes to caring for children. We believe there is no greater joy than seeing the smiles of children who have been saved by our timely medical intervention.”

Group Medical Director and Senior Pediatric Gastroenterologist, Apollo Hospitals Group – Dr (Prof) Anupam Sibal, stated: “Apollo Hospitals has been receiving children with liver failure from the Philippines for the last five years. Fortunately, we have been able to help many families from different parts of the Philippines.

We would like to thank families for their trust as we mark the landmark of 100 liver transplants in babies and children from the Philippines. Despite COVID restrictions, we have transplanted 53 children in the last 2 years. The youngest child to be operated on was 4 months. Significantly, babies weighing barely 3.5kgs have also had liver transplants at Apollo Hospitals. Our initiative has been facilitated by the immense support from the Embassies which helped in easing travel formalities for patients. The Apollo Liver Transplant Program, the first successful program in India which was established in 1998 has now performed more than 3950 liver transplants including 458 in children from 20 countries”.

Senior Liver Transplant Surgeon at the Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Dr. Neerav Goyal, said, "In liver transplant, surgery is performed when patients have a high risk of dying from their disease in the ensuing weeks to months. Since COVID-19 is not going away anytime soon, many of these patients were unlikely to survive the period of the pandemic without liver transplant, and the patients despite several challenges travelled to us. We are happy that we can help them in easing their pain and provided a new lease of life. In 65% of children, the donors were mothers, in 30 % fathers and 5 % other blood relatives.”

About Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals: 

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, India’s first JCI accredited hospital, is a joint venture between the Government of Delhi and Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited. Commissioned in July 1996, it is the third super-specialty tertiary care hospital set up by the Apollo Hospitals Group. Spread over 15 acres, it houses 57 specialties with more than 300 specialists and more than 700 operational beds, 19 operation theatres, 138 ICU beds, round-the-clock pharmacy, NABL accredited laboratories, 24-hour emergency services and an active air ambulance service. Apollo Hospitals Delhi has the leading programmed in kidney and liver transplant in the country. The first successful pediatrics and adult liver transplants in India were performed at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals. The hospital is at the forefront of medical technology and expertise. It provides a complete range of latest diagnostic, medical and surgical facilities for the care of its patients. The Hospital has introduced the most sophisticated imaging technology to India with the introduction of 64 slice CT and 3 Tesla MRI, Novalis Tx and the integrated PET Suite. Indraprastha Apollo has also pioneered the concept of preventive health check programmed and has created a satisfied customer base over decades. The Hospital has been consistently ranked amongst the best 10 hospitals in India by The Week survey for the past few years.

Hospital website - https://delhi.apollohospitals.com/

Twitter: @HospitalsApollo

How you can help advance your child's IQ and EQ with DHA and MFGM Pro

Tweet

A child’s chance for future success relies not just on harnessing the IQ. It is also very much dependent on making sure his or her EQ is equally developed. EQ is the ability to understand, use, and manage one’s own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges and defuse conflict. It is how a child is able to keep calm when a favorite toy is lost or when he or she can’t figure out the answer to what 8+5 is. It is how a child is able to get along with other kids while in play or in school. It is how he or she is able to manage frustration without throwing a tantrum. Completing your child’s EQ to have these attitudes will help set them up for success in the future.

With recent studies that point to the importance of EQ as part of a child’s holistic growth, moms who have been focusing on IQ are now nurturing the EQ abilities of their kids. Apart from concentrating on their kids’ mental strength in the areas of logic, memory and language, moms have also started to hone their kids’ confidence, behavioral regulation and independence. That’s because moms now know that if they don’t enhance their kids’ EQ, a child is basically #MissingHalf of what is necessary to attain success in the future.

Fortunately, there’s now a reliable way for moms to #CompleteTheMissingHalf of their kids’ intelligence development by giving them Enfagrow A+ Four Nurapro which is scientifically proven to develop not just IQ but also EQ. Enfagrow A+ Four Nurapro’s formula has a game changing combination MFGM Pro and superior DHA levels* (versus other premium milk brands), plus prebiotic blend of HMO and FOS. MFGM or Milk Fat Globule Membrane has been scientifically proven to enhance a child’s EQ by providing healthy doses of Sphingomyelin and gangliosides to aid in brain formation; and, Sterols to help regulate hormones that help in cognitive functions. Plus, it has DHA- an omega-3 fatty acid proven to be essential for IQ and brain development during early childhood, to promote bone growth, and to strengthen the body’s immune system.

Combined with proper nutrition and stimulation, Enfagrow A+ Four Nurapro completes the #Missing Half by providing kids 3 years old and up with proper nourishment that equally enhances both IQ and EQ. By giving their children Enfagrow A+ Four Nurapro, not only do moms get a competitive value of their money because of the unbeatable combination of MFGM Pro and superior DHA levels*, they also become Moms for Great Minds as they proactively help their kids’ EQ development towards future success.

Enjoy as much as P3,000 off in discounts, up to 4 FREE GIFTS, vouchers, free shipping, flash sales and more during our Complete the Missing Half Super Brand Day on Shopee, happening on May 19-20, with the best deals on May 20, 12mn! Add to cart here**.

*Enfagrow A+ Four Nurapro 35mg vs. other premium milk brand

**Per DOH-FDA-CFRR Permit No. 0201 s. 2022 and 2055 s. 2021

References:

https://www.enfagrow.com.ph/development

https://www.enfagrow.com.ph/EnfagrowAII4

World Vision’s “Reasons Campaign” gives children a reason to hope

Tweet

After two years living with COVID-19, cases have declined and most people are now adjusting as quarantine regulations are easing under the new normal. However, the effects of the pandemic can still be felt around the world, especially among the most vulnerable populations.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, there are 3.53 million out-of-school children and youth in the country, with 597,000 child laborers working in hazardous or harmful conditions. These children are more at risk to the negative effects of the pandemic, and now more than ever, there’s a reason to help them.

In line with this, World Vision in the Philippines launched the “Reasons Campaign” aiming to raise awareness and rally support for children through the organization’s sponsorship program. With the urgent need to help one another through the worst humanitarian crisis in decades, each of us has the ability to care for those around us, especially those who are more vulnerable and less able to seek the assistance that they need.

“Through the Reasons Campaign, World Vision encourages people to make a lasting difference in children’s lives. It is our prayer that God will continue to bless you, and we thank you for being with us in bringing hope, joy and justice for all children,” said Rommel V. Fuerte, National Director of World Vision Development Foundation.

There have never been more reasons to sponsor a child than today, and you can be one of the reasons to give them hope. Through World Vision's Reasons Campaign, the organization aims to support and empower children and communities in the country. For more information on how you can help secure a child's future today, visit www.worldvision.org.ph/reasons.

Malayan Colleges Mindanao Engages Parents in Supporting Their Children’s Hybrid Learning

Tweet

Malayan Colleges Mindanao, A Mapúa School (MCM) launched The Parenting Hour: A Webinar on Positive Effects of Hybrid Flexible Learning on Students and How Parents Can Support Young Learners on May 6, 2022 via Zoom and streamed live on Facebook. The online event is the school’s initiative to effectively engage parents and guardians in tackling the common challenges in relation to students’ welfare amidst the new normal educational landscape.

The event speakers discussed the important role of parents in the educational success of students.

Mr. Charlymer C. Dingal, Ms. Suzi Entrata-Abrera, Ms. Zaida M. Padullo, and Dr. Sheila Marie G. Hocson during The Parenting Hour

Far Eastern University (FEU) Guidance Director Dr. Sheila Marie G. Hocson emphasised that parents have the most powerful influence on their children and that their behaviour greatly affects that of their children’s. She also motivated parents to constantly communicate with their children.

“[The parents] are the absolute truth of their children. Sana po tayo ay maging magandang ehemplo lalo na po if you are raising zero- to eighteen-year-olds since those are the ages when they develop ethical identity. Importante po na matuto po tayo magkaroon ng frequent communication sa ating mga anak,” Dr. Hocson advised.

Positive Discipline Advocates of the Philippines Founder Ms. Zaida M. Padullo encouraged parents and guardians to build a mutually respectful relationship with their children, and comprehensively communicate their rules, limits, and expectations.

“We encourage our parents and teachers to draw the line kung hanggang saan yung consideration––kung ano yung pwede and hindi. Kailangan po clear yung expectations sa ating mga anak. There has to be clear rules na pinag-a-agree-han ng mga magulang at ng kanyang mga anak. You have to be firm and kind at the same time,” Ms. Padullo urged.

Co-hosted by TV Personality and mom, Ms. Suzi Entrata-Abrera, and MCM’s Guidance Facilitator, Mr. Charlymer C. Dingal, The Parenting Hour was largely attended by parents and guardians of students from Davao City schools.

In its mission of providing quality education, Malayan Colleges Mindanao aims to continuously engage parents and guardians, and provide opportunities for parenting support in helping build a healthy home and school environment for students.

The Parenting Hour may be re-watched here.

PascualLab extends the love to less fortunate children via World Vision’s CHOSEN

Tweet

After marking its 75th anniversary with the theme #PascualLove, and manifesting it via the company’s CSR initiatives, PascualLab renews its ties with charitable donations organization World Vision to help less fortunate children in Malabon. A virtual MOA signing was mounted last week to seal the partnership.

PascualLab and World Vision join hands anew to help less fortunate children in Malabon via CHOSEN

Through the World Vision program CHOSEN which enables children in select communities to choose their sponsors, PascualLab and its employees were able to help over 75 children in 2021, via the sponsorship of over 140 PascualLab employees.

To continue sharing the #PascualLove and helping these children, one of the Philippines’ most well-loved pharmaceutical companies ¹ and its employees once again joined hands with World Vision.

This year, most employees are renewing their sponsorships, to help children in need of educational support and health essentials.

PascualLab VP for Corporate HROD and DSCC Mia Pascual Cenzon sign the MOA with World Vision's National Director Rommel Fuerte 

According to VP for Corporate HROD and DSCC Mia Pascual Cenzon: 

“Corporate Social Responsibility has always been part of PascualLab’s thrust. In realizing this, it has always been our goal to pursue initiatives that are long-term rather than “one-offs”. Through this partnership with World Vision, we hope to see these children graduate to the next level and help enable them to achieve their dreams through education and health.”

Aside from Cenzon, present at the MOA signing were LAC President and CEO Antonio “Tony” Causing, PascualLab Supply Group’s Senior Vice President and Chief Manufacturing Officer Higinio “Jun” Porte, Senior Vice President for Finance Accounting, ICTD Rowena “Weng” Punsalan, and Internal Audit and Risk Management Head Rodney Doromal. The event was hosted by Lara Dela Cruz, PascualLab’s Senior Manager for Design Services and Corporate Communications together with World Vision's Donor Care Manager Precious Hope Basco.

World Vision National Director Rommel Fuerte signs the MOA with PascualLab for the second year of partnership

The World Vision team accords the PascualLab with a One For Children Seal to thank the company and its employees for the valuable support.

National Director Rommel Fuerte led the World Vision team. Joining him were Strategy Management and Quality Assurance Director Vanessa Retuerama, Resource Development Director Jun Godornes, New Sponsor Engagement Specialist El Joy Beneza, Contact Center Officer Marc Klauzen Perez, and Acquisitions Manager Cherry Valencia.

To thank PascualLab for the second year of partnership, the World Vision Team accorded the company and its employees a “Project Salute”, led by Retuerama.

Retuerma shared: “With hundreds of children supported through the years, this partnership is one that we are very proud of, and always eager to share with others.” She added: “That said, we are pleased to award this World Vision “One for Children” Seal as a symbol of our unending gratitude and appreciation for PascualLab’s loyalty towards World Vision and the children we support.”

The One for Children seal was made by a former World Vision beneficiary, artist, and now entrepreneur Kit Gresos

The seal, made by a former World Vision beneficiary, artist, and owner of Papelemento Design Kit Gresos, is symbolic of how philanthropy can bring great opportunities for children, tenfold.

To take its partnership with World Vision and support for the kids further, PascualLab employees hope to meet their sponsored children once the current situation becomes more favorable health-wise. Meanwhile, PascualLab continues to support the World Vision-assisted community in Malabon and even beyond through its family-friendly and quality health and wellness products.

¹ Source: IQVIA 2021