New product alert: Optimize your living space for the healthiest air possible with the CHERRY Smart Air Quality Sensor

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For parents, having a safe and healthy environment for their families is a top priority. In the quest for ensuring the well-being of their loved ones, CHERRY Smart Air Quality Sensor is your indispensable ally.

CHERRY Smart Air Quality Sensor offer more than just data; it provides cautious moms with valuable insights and the added peace of mind that comes with knowing their homes are havens of clean, breathable air. Moreover, dads can also see a real-time data on key indicators such as particulate matter (PM2.5), total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), carbon dioxide (CO2), and more.

Navigating the device is also a breeze as it seamlessly connects to your smartphone through the CHERRY IoT Solutions App. You can receive instant updates on your smartphone when the air quality deteriorates, allowing you to take prompt action.

Create a healthier living environment with the CHERRY Smart Air Quality Sensor for P4,999.

For more information, visit:

CHERRY Shop PH: www.cherryshop.com.ph

Shopee: https://bit.ly/CherryPhShopee

Lazada: https://bit.ly/CherryPhLazada

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Cosmic Technologies Incorporated is a Philippine-based company that carries the brand CHERRY which offers a comprehensive selection of products from Internet of Things (IoT), home, personal and wellness essentials, pet needs, travel necessities to mobile phones. Since 2009, CHERRY continues to build an equilibrium to create one ecosystem.

Cheers to Stress-Free Celebrations: Enjoying the Holiday Season with Healthy Beverage Choice

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The holidays are a time for joy and delicious treats, often accompanied by usual holiday beverage choices like alcohol and sugary drinks. While it's tempting to indulge during festive gatherings, excessive drinking can impact your well-being. However, you don't have to compromise on enjoying the season with your loved ones. This year, consider adding a healthy twist to your celebrations by making your own festive barley drinks using Santé Barley with Stevia.

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Embark on a festive journey of flavor as we explore a delightful array of nourishing drinks, adding a touch of sophistication to your holiday celebrations

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These nourishing drinks, recommended by Santé, one of the fastest-growing distribution and direct selling companies globally dedicated to helping people live better lives, provide a worry-free way to savor and cherish every moment with your loved ones.

Explore a variety of healthier options. While the holiday season often involves toasting with alcoholic beverages, there's a world of non-alcoholic options that are just as festive and enjoyable. Consider indulging in mocktails, sparkling water with fruit infusions, or virgin versions of your favorite cocktails.

One recipe you can make is a sparkling barley drink inspired by a mojito, containing sparkling water, Santé Barley Powder with Stevia, lemon slices, and mint leaves. Simply combine a scoop of Santé Barley Powder with Stevia with sparkling water and add fresh citrus slices and a few mint leaves for a burst of flavor.

Create a drink with natural and fresh ingredients. When selecting ingredients for your holiday beverages, choose fresh and natural options. Freshly squeezed juices, real fruit purees, and herbs can elevate your drinks without the need for added sugars or artificial flavorings. This not only enhances the taste but also ensures that your beverages contribute positively to your overall well-being.

One recipe you can make is creating a yogurt drink with mixed berries and Santé Barley Powder with Stevia. You can blend Santé Barley Powder with Stevia, mixed berries, and a dollop of Greek yogurt until smooth. Sweeten with honey if desired. Pour into festive glasses and garnish with additional berries for a delightful and nutrient-packed treat.

The health benefits of Santé Barley Powder with Stevia are the perfect you can give to yourself this holiday season. Certified organic barley grass by BioGro, it contains dietary fiber that aids in digestive health. Rich in Vitamins A, B, and C, along with essential nutrients such as potassium, iron, zinc, and more, a single scoop in a glass of water can boost your immune system and promote regular bowel movements. This festive season, enjoy the added health benefits while toasting to joyous moments.

"In Santé, we believe that the joy of celebrations can be complemented by mindful beverage choices. Our focus is on providing options that enhance the festive spirit while aligning with individuals' wellness goals," said Joey Marcelo, Chief Executive Officer of Santé.

With its mission to help people live better lives, Santé promotes, produces, and distributes natural health and wellness products and services. Santé consistently delivers top-quality products to its loyal customers globally.

To learn more about the Santé and its health and wellness products and services, visit its website at mySanté.com.

Prevent the Surge of Illness: 6 Expert Ways to Prevent Kids From Getting the Flu

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has observed a surge in respiratory illnesses among children in northern China since mid-October 2023. Chinese authorities attribute this increase to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the onset of the cold season, leading to the circulation of known pathogens such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Mycoplasma pneumonia and RSV are known to affect children more than adults.

In our quest to ensure the safety of ourselves and our loved ones, we must find proactive approaches to cleanliness both inside and outside our homes. Traditional cleaning methods may not be the most practical solution anymore - damp rags, walis, and feather dusters just won’t cut it (sometimes they can even bring in invisible invaders such as viruses, allergens, and bacteria inside the home). The CDC recommends a few solutions to lower the likelihood of transmission:

• Increasing airflow by using portable high-efficiency particulate air filtration systems (i.e. Air Purifiers

• Using natural ventilation when possible

• Using ultraviolet (UV-C) germicidal irradiation as a supplement to help inactivate the virus

The CDC's recommendation for ultraviolet (UV-C) germicidal irradiation refers to ASHRAE's (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) position on airborne infectious diseases. As stated in their position statement, "ASHRAE will continue to support research that advances the state of knowledge in the specific techniques that control airborne infectious disease transmission through HVAC systems, including ventilation rates, airflow regimes, filtration, and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI)."

In fact, trusted brands have been relying on this technology. Germ-protection innovators such as UV Care have been employing this into different devices to help eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces to help us be more proactive in keeping ourselves and loved ones protected. 

Find out trusted germ protection devices and other science-proven must-knows to get away from the flu and other viruses this season: 

1. Update your vaccines

If you haven’t yet, update your vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual shot for everyone aged 6 months and older. It lowers your chance of getting the flu, and having complications from the flu. 

Most Philippine hospitals and clinics offer the anti-flu vaccine, but if you prefer not to risk exposure in the waiting room, home vaccination is approved by the DOH in the Philippines. You can also get it with your COVID-19 booster, but make sure to consult your doctor first. 

2. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces

Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, laptops, cellphones, light switches, and countertops. 

"UV-C sterilization has gained recognition as a powerful tool in surface disinfection. It not only offers a quick and chemical-free approach but is also effective in eliminating deadly and superbugs, providing an added layer of protection."

But take note not all UV devices are the same! According to experts at UV Care, when choosing a UV sterilizer, choose only genuine UV-C devices as these are the ones most effective for germ protection while UV-A is most effective for skin aging, and UV-B for burning. 

We recommend the UV Care Pocket Sterilizer, your best investment for protection on the go. Handy and lightweight, this sterilizer uses UV-C germicidal technology which means it can kill up to 99.99% of surface pathogens. Carry it with you on car rides, commutes, and when handling your mobile phones, tablets, laptops, remotes, keys, and the like to avoid transferring bacteria from one surface to the other - especially useful for a quick swipe over kid’s toys and devices. 

3. Wear a mask outdoors

Honestly, this should be number one. We all know its benefits already, it protects our sensitivities from viruses, smog, vog, pollution, and the like. People who are not ill and choose to wear a mask can get the best protection by wearing one every time they are in public and at home when around others, according to the CDC. 

4. Keep indoor air clean

Combat the flu with modern solutions - keep your indoor air clean with an air purifier at home. 

Air purifiers usually come with a lot of skepticism because of the complex technology behind how they operate. Although 100% proven by experts, some models in the market can be a total bust since not all air purifiers are the same; so make sure to get a FDA-approved air purifier only from trusted brands.  

Given the multitude of brands available, it is essential to choose a device that has garnered trust and proven effectiveness. This ensures that the product not only works but also delivers immediate and tangible benefits.

We recommend the UV Care Air Purifiers as they are lab-tested and proven effective by multiple independent testing laboratories. "UV Care has achieved Class II Medical Device classification from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its air cleaning products, affirming their safety and effectiveness.”

Adding a UV Care air purifier can eliminate episodes of asthma and allergic rhinitis as it gets rid of these triggers in the air. It also has been tested to instantly kill SARS-CoV-2 & viruses and eliminates 99.9% of airborne pathogens, odors and molds at home, in the office.  You can also travel safely with the portable UV Care Pure Air Portable Air Purifier. 

Experts from UV Care have led innovations in germ-protection technology, and they emphasize on studying the product and make sure the air purifier comes with Highest Medical Grade HEPA filters combined with Activated Carbon filters and UV-C for disinfection providing the total air care protection. You can check out how these filtration systems help protect your home on the UV Care website.

5. Sterilize home surfaces 

According to the International WELL Building Institute, keeping surfaces germ-free is crucial. Surfaces can be made antimicrobial with UV-C light. For high-touch spots like countertops and handles, they should either be made germ-resistant or regularly cleaned with a UV-C device, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.

UV Care’s Room sterilizers are designed to prevent the spread of the virus or 'hawa-hawa,' ensuring faster recovery and preventing further contamination. Using Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light, these sterilizers target and eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces, reaching hard-to-reach crevices and ceilings. Perfect for just about any personal and commercial space such as schools, offices, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, salons, movie theaters, hotels, and restrooms, among others.

6. Stay on top of your diet 

Eating a diet rich in nutrients can help your body fight against illnesses. Even if you do not feel sick, it is important to stay on top of your diet and prepare whole meals for children in the family - choose green rich in vitamins A, C, and E to boost the family’s immune system. 

Remember, it's not just about reacting to the flu; it's about proactively creating a space that actively repels it.  For home and travel additions that will help you fight against the flu, other viruses, allergens, and bacteria you can dive deeper into understanding the functionality and efficacy of UV Care products by exploring their official YouTube Channel and website.

About UV Care

UV Care has been a trusted partner in germ protection of many homes and businesses for more than 8 years. It  is the leading brand in UV-C sterilization technology and has the most comprehensive range of UV-C devices for industrial, medical, corporate, and commercial solutions. There is a UV Care UV-C device in almost all leading hospitals, malls, and businesses in the Philippines. 

All devices are lab-tested and proven effective by multiple independent testing laboratories. UV Care is classified as Class II Medical Device by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered. UV Care is also Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited, a Member of the International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA), and is also listed with the Underwriter Laboratories (UL) and CE certified. 

UV Care is the only brand that offers custom UV-C devices for special applications and purposes not covered by our consumer and industrial line. With an expert team of professional engineers and scientists, UV Care can develop custom UV-C devices for business or special needs to ensure effectiveness and results.

Dive into the real Robust Challenge

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Vin FPV, awarded by Senator Raffy Tulfo, emerged as the grand winner with 41,285,748 views, claiming the PHP 1 million prize.

Real Robust Challenge Makes Waves Online

As we age, our bodies undergo changes. Our vision might weaken, joints may feel stiff, and hair might turn gray, among other things. One common challenge men face is difficulty in achieving or maintaining intimate moments. This issue, known as erectile dysfunction, isn't exclusive to older individuals, but can occur at any age. The likelihood of experiencing this tends to rise as men grow older. Studies indicate that age plays a significant role in this condition. Therefore, the older a person gets, the higher the risk of encountering these challenges. After the age of 70, it becomes more prevalent, affecting a large percentage of men within this age group. Various studies align with this, highlighting the increased risk with age. For instance, research from 2017 revealed that a man in his 40s has a 40 percent chance of encountering some form of these issues, with this risk growing by 10 percent for each additional decade of life.

That's where the game-changer, Robust, steps onto the scene. This powerhouse supplement packs a punch with its all-natural formula, ensuring men a naturally formidable rigidity minus any risky aftermath. It stands out as the ultimate go-to alternative to conventional drugs, promising not just heightened intimate pleasure, but an utterly fulfilling and thrilling experience for both you and your partner to take a pleasure in.

The key ingredients

Robust stands out as a top-notch rigidity booster for one big reason: its powerhouse ingredients. Take Epimedium Extract, aka Horny Goat Weed, a leaf with a centuries-old reputation in Chinese aphrodisiac circles. This stuff revs up your sex drive like no other natural compound out there. Then there's L-Arginine, an amino acid that kicks your body into gear, cranking out nitric oxide for sturdier, longer-lasting performance. Bonus points for boosting sperm quality and quantity. Plus, Songaria Cynomorium swoops in to strengthen tendons and amp up blood flow, especially useful for beating age-related constipation. And let's not forget Amino Butyric Acid/GABA - the brain's chill pill. It's a natural anxiety fighter, promotes relaxation, sharpens focus, and cranks up the dopamine for an orgasmic boost.

Alongside the mentioned ingredients, it also packs Gingko Biloba leaf, Ginseng, Cnidium Monnier whole plant, Dansheng root, Dahurian Angelica root, and Tea extracts, making sure you're sturdy and secure where it matters most.

The Real Robust Challenge

Lately, Robust is blowing up online thanks to the Robust prank craze. We’re not missing out – ATC Healthcare International Corporation recently came up with “The Real Robust Challenge!” at the Cork Elite,  W 5th Building.  

Juliana Parizcova Segovia and Rob Guinto

Hosted by Juliana Parizcova Segovia and Rob Guinto, winners were announced among hundreds of participants. Each receiving PHP 30,000, awardees included John Mark Gon with 22,167,438 views, Owy Posadas with 14,500,000 views, Christine Yalong with 13,914,000 views, MR & MRS F. with 11,008,000 views, Bessang TV with 9,942,003 views, Joira with 9,868,533 views, Togo TV with 9,363,847 views, Macky TV with 7,400,000 views, Charish TV with 5,673,263 views, and Jen Vlogs with 5,400,000 views. Elaiza Sy secured third place with 21,870,184 views, winning PHP 300,000. The FCY Channel clinched second place with 24,173,225 views, earning PHP 500,000. Vin FPV, awarded by Senator Raffy Tulfo, emerged as the grand winner with 41,285,748 views, claiming the PHP 1 million prize.

Brace yourselves for next year's challenge, championed by the dynamic forces of Robust and Livermarin. Get ready to witness an absolute game-changer as this upcoming event promises to surpass all expectations, offering an unprecedented grand prize of PHP 2 million. Anticipate an event that will certainly redefine excitement and set new standards for rewards.

ATC Healthcare International Corporation, founded in 2005, provides a diverse range of dietary supplements and healthcare items. From immunity enhancers to detox solutions and weight management capsules, their products cater to individuals of all age groups. Over time, ATC Healthcare International Corporation has evolved into a pioneering force in healthcare innovation within the nation.

P&G Health Unveils Breakthrough Solutions for Peripheral Neuropathy Management

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Procter and Gamble (P&G) Philippines, in collaboration with P&G Health, is at the forefront of redefining the landscape of Peripheral Neuropathy (PN) with innovative solutions aimed at improving the lives of millions affected by this condition, spearheading a transformative narrative on Peripheral Neuropathy (PN), with groundbreaking insights unveiled during the #KNOWTHESIGNS Scientific Forum last November 14, 2023, during World Diabetes Day. While the forum took place earlier, the timeless impact of the revelations continues to reshape our understanding of PN, a condition affecting over 50 million people globally.

The key highlight from the forum was the unveiling of the NENOIN Study results, shedding light on the efficacy of a fixed dose combination of B vitamins (B1, B6, and B12) in significantly improving nerve function. The study's findings provide a crucial roadmap for managing Peripheral Neuropathy, offering tangible hope for millions globally.

Understanding the Scope of Peripheral Neuropathy:

Peripheral Neuropathy, affecting over 50 million people globally, poses significant challenges to those with diabetes and pre-diabetes. Numbness, tingling, and burning sensations in the hands and feet are common symptoms, impacting the quality of life for individuals with this condition.

With Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 being the leading cause of PN, the increasing prevalence of PN is closely linked to the rise in the number of diabetic patients. Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is the result of damage to the nerves impacting the quality of life of people as they are not able to go about their daily lives as comfortably. Symptoms of PN include numbness, tingling, prickling, and burning sensations in the hands and feet. B vitamin deficiency and polymedication are other high-risk factors along with diabetes, leading to peripheral nerve damage. Published studies across different countries confirm that up to 80% of patients with PN remain undiagnosed and untreated.

P&G's Comprehensive Approach:

P&G Health is committed to addressing the multifaceted nature of Peripheral Neuropathy by introducing holistic solutions that focus is on providing relief and improved quality of life to individuals dealing with the daily struggles of PN.

Key Components of P&G's Peripheral Neuropathy Management Strategy:

1. Innovative Research: A leader in Nerve Health, P&G Health invests in continuous research, exemplified by studies like the NENOIN Study, to uncover effective solutions for Peripheral Neuropathy. This commitment to innovation underlines P&G's dedication to improving outcomes for those living with PN. PN is associated with poor functional mobility and compromised motor symptoms, in addition to sensory symptoms. These symptoms significantly worsen the quality of life of patients. Results from the NENOIN study concluded that the synergistic combination of vitamins B1, B6, and B12 can not only relief symptoms but also significantly improve nerve function in patients with PN which is a critical learning. This further underlines how early screening for PN and timely treatment can help improve quality of life and treatment outcomes

2. Vitamin B Supplementation: Besides diabetes mellitus, aging, alcoholism, and B vitamins deficiencies are other high-risk factors leading to peripheral nerve damage. Vitamin B1, B6, and B12 play essential roles in the maintenance of a healthy nervous system. Vitamin B1 provides energy to the nerves, vitamin B6 helps with signal transmission in nerves, while vitamin B12 helps with neuronal regeneration. combination of vitamin B1, B6 and B12 that is scientifically proven to repair nerve damage, restore nerve function and regenerate nerves to relieve neuropathy symptoms.

3. Pharmacist Engagement: Acknowledging the integral role of pharmacists in patient care, P&G advocates for their active involvement. By providing guidance on lifestyle modifications and recommending over-the-counter treatments, pharmacists play a vital role in supporting individuals with PN. A Speaker at the Forum, Dr. Kenny P Merin (Pharmacist, and Assistant Vice President, Academics & Research of Lyceum of the Philippines University Davao – Philippines) shared, "Pharmacists are an integral part of the healthcare team and can provide valuable support to patients with PN, yet often we are underutilized. Pharmacists are often the first point of contact and can drive early awareness of patient's condition, offer guidance on lifestyle modifications, and help optimize medication regimens. Pharmacists can also recommend over-the-counter treatments (e.g., therapeutic dose of Neurotropic B vitamins) for PN symptom relief. By actively engaging with patients and healthcare professionals, let's join hands to improve PN patients' long-term health and well-being.”

4. AI-Powered Awareness: P&G's ongoing #KnowtheSigns campaign leverages Artificial Intelligence to make the often-invisible conditions of PN and Vitamin B deficiency more visible and relatable to consumers. Early diagnosis is emphasized as a critical factor in enabling better treatment outcomes.

5. Collective Stakeholder Efforts: Insights from healthcare professionals around the globe underscore the importance of collaborative efforts, education, and early intervention. As a partner to International Diabetes Federation (IDF), P&G Health is committed to continued efforts to raise awareness on Diabetes and its associated complications including Peripheral Neuropathy and Vitamin B Deficiency. The goal is to create a comprehensive support system that addresses the challenges posed by Peripheral Neuropathy on a global scale.

“Our #KnowtheSigns campaign is a step change in the approach towards health awareness, as for the first time, we have leveraged Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make the invisible condition of PN & Vitamin B deficiency visible and more relatable to consumers. We hope to help people understand the condition by shedding light on daily struggles and symptoms. Not many people are aware that early diagnosis can help enable better treatment outcomes and better quality of life, and damaged nerves can be regenerated if nerve damage has not progressed too far,” says Aalok Agrawal, Senior Vice-President, P&G Health, Asia, India, Middle East & Africa.

As P&G Health continues to drive innovation in the realm of Peripheral Neuropathy, the focus remains on providing solutions that enhance the overall quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. The ongoing commitment to research, awareness, and comprehensive care solidifies P&G Health's position as a leader in the pursuit of better outcomes for those with Peripheral Neuropathy.

From SafetyWing, remote health for your remote team

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At present, the remote work is on the rise. working remotely is only now becoming mainstream. People sait It's the new normal. Remote work (also known as work from home [WFH] or telecommuting) is a type of flexible working arrangement that allows an employee to work from remote location outside of corporate offices.

Some companies and organizations settled into a work-from-home routine said, it took time as they set up systems to enable remote work. Is it better to work onsite or remotely? Working remotely exposes you to fewer distractions than you may encounter when working in the office or at another onsite location.

While having the ability to work from outside of a corporate office has been feasible. Some people extol the flexibility of their lifestyles and the benefits that they’ve seen in their professional lives because they can work remotely.

There are advantages and disadvantages of remote working for employees.

• Teamwork and leadership can be a little bit more challenging.
• Remote workers reported stable or increased productivity while working remotely compared to in an office,
• On the employees' side, greater sense of comfort and better work-life balance lead to less stress.
• Flexibility, on time and place event not just on their home.
• Cost savings, both for the employees and company.

With employees potentially working from anywhere, companies need to be prepared to insure them everywhere. Remote workers’ insurance covers health, and accidents during the workday in their remote work.

SafetyWing offers Insurance for remote teams

SafetyWing provides travel medical and health insurance for nomads and remote companies worldwide.

Remote Health is a global health insurance to cover your employees and contractors worldwide under one plan, regardless of where they live.

Remote Health provides worldwide coverage. All are also covered while they travel. Travel can be for any reason, business or pleasure.

Health insurance for remote teams + platforms

• A fully equipped health insurance, designed for your global workforce
• From $80/ month, per member
• Add your team to the same plan, regardless of location. 
• Remote Health insurance works globally, so you can hire the best talent in the world.
• Dynamic like your team
• Add and remove team members at any time. Whether they are on a full-time salary, a part time contract or somewhere in between.
• Support you can rely on
• Your team gets dedicated 24/7 support from day one. In your time of need, you should never have to wait on hold.
• Premium health insurance that works in every country across the world
• 175+ countries covered as main residence.

SafetyWing is simple and flexible

• Easy to use website
• A simple overview of your company’s insurance details and your covered members.
• Lower price and extra benefits as your number of members grows.
• Customizable add-ons
• Optional coverage for things like dental, maternity, screenings and vaccinations to ensure that you have the perfect insurance for your company.

Visit the website and you can find the most up-to-date versions of all SafetyWing insurance policies here.

EpiC FREE TO BE U Campaign Launches Inspiring Videos to fight HIV stigma

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The FREE TO BE U campaign recently released The Positive Lifestyle, a series of powerful and inspiring videos designed to raise awareness about, foster empathy for, and help empower people living with HIV (PLHIV). The FREE TO BE U Campaign recognizes that a key component in the fight against HIV stigma is not just knowledge, but empathy. 

Through these videos, the campaign is dispelling misconceptions, promoting acceptance, and encouraging viewers to connect to PLHIV as they share their personal stories. Most importantly, once conversations around HIV are no longer stigmatized, people can freely access HIV services through tools. The videos are available on the campaign’s Facebook and Youtube accounts.

“We are excited to announce the release of these eleven entertaining yet enlightening videos. We hope that they can make an impact in eradicating stigma around HIV in the country, as well as educate the public about the everyday lives of people living with HIV,” said Teresita Marie Bagasao, Project Director of the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project.

One of the videos features Drag Den Philippines Winner NAIA (@naiablack_ on IG) talking to Jabar Esmael, a PLHIV advocate, while having their make-up done. Jabar talks about his experience right after learning he was HIV-positive and what made him decide to get treatment. Another video shows how a person living with HIV can maintain a healthy lifestyle and adhere to treatment via proper nutrition in a fun, cooking show setting.

By developing these videos, FREE TO BE U seeks to promote acceptance and inclusivity, break stereotypes, and shift the narrative when it comes to people living with HIV. Each video provides unique perspectives on the daily lives of people living with HIV, revealing marginalized people whose voices need to be heard and whose days are filled with challenges, but also beauty and fun.

Teresita Marie Bagasao added, “This initiative not only shows the realities of people living with HIV, but it also promotes QuickRes.org, an online booking application for HIV services in the country. It is not enough that we normalize conversations about HIV. We also need to provide information about access points for free HIV services.”

QuickRes is an online booking application where anyone can easily book an appointment for HIV and sexual health services using their smartphone, tablet, or laptop. It is a global platform brought by the campaign here in the Philippines, with the country being the top user globally within a year.

The FREE TO BE U campaign was launched in 2022 by the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project, in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) Healthy Pilipinas . EpiC is led by FHI 360 and funded by the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).This partnership kicked off last February during the Festival of Love event. The campaign has also organized the QUILTS Awards — which honors health facilities and partner organizations that have provided exceptional care and treatment to people living with HIV— for the past two years.

To learn more about the FREE TO BE U campaign, visit: https://www.facebook.com/FreeToBeUPH

You can access QuickRes on their website: https://quickres.org/233

UNICEF urges intensified catch-up vaccination efforts to eradicate polio

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The World Health Organization Polio Risk Assessment for 2022-2023 shows that the Philippines is still considered at risk for polio outbreaks, with 24 out of 81 provinces considered high-risk. 

UNICEF Philippines, on the occasion of World Polio Day, urges the government and immunization partners to continue intensifying catch-up vaccination efforts to prevent the resurgence of this infectious, life-threatening disease, especially in vulnerable communities with limited access to essential health services. 

Triathlon Triumphs: Mervin Santiago's Journey Beyond Racetracks

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Embarking on a journey that transcends boundaries, Mervin Santiago's triumph in the IRONMAN World Championship becomes a beacon of inspiration for athletes globally.

Competing in Nice, France, while proudly carrying Philippine flag, was no small feat for Mervin Rencel Santiago, a member of the Santé Barley Tri-Team, who recently celebrated as the fastest Filipino finisher in the IRONMAN World Championship.

This achievement marked a challenging balance between life, career, and a fervent passion for sports. Yet, Santiago's unwavering determination rendered him unstoppable, propelling him to new heights both personally and for the local triathlon scene. Here, he shares his story beyond the finish line.

More than passion: a lifestyle. Known for his love of sports, Santiago's journey into triathlons is more of a lifestyle than aiming to win. Beyond being a triathlete, he serves as a fitness coach and bike fitter. Sports seamlessly integrated into his career, hobby, and passion, making the disciplined training for triathlons a natural extension of his routine.

"Some train solely for competition, but my goal is to stay healthy. Beyond IRONMAN training, it has become my regular workout routine so, naturally, it became part of my lifestyle. Honestly, even without competition, I would still follow this vigorous training," Santiago shared.

His dedication hasn't gone unnoticed by fellow Santé Barley Tri-Team members, including Santé CEO Joey Marcelo and Santé Barley Tri-Team Captain Jonah Rivera. Santiago's commitment to training, even at unconventional hours, is a quality admired by the team.

"It's rare to find a triathlete so passionate that sport becomes his reason for being. Sometimes you would catch him training even at night, and that is why he continues to achieve great feats in the triathlon scene," Marcelo remarked.

Despite the demanding schedule, Santiago maintains a well-balanced life. As a family man, he finds time to take breaks and bond with his loved ones, a sentiment emphasized by Rivera, acknowledging the challenge of balancing family life with the demands of being a triathlete.

The role of nutrition and health. Everything that transpired during the competition exceeded Santiago's expectations—a sentiment he emphasized when recalling his thoughts at the finish line. While he aimed to perform at his best because he carries the pride of Filipinos on his shoulders, Santiago's primary goal was to surpass his personal record.

"One thing about always aiming to be the best in competitions is it overshadows your true purpose—to grow and be better for yourself. My focus that day was to beat my own PR (Personal Record), with other achievements as a bonus," Santiago emphasized.

For Santiago, triathlons are a constant battle to maintain overall health. Losing focus before, during, or after the race was never an option. Ensuring a healthy body, mind, and soul became paramount, with Santé playing a vital role.

"Nutrition is crucial in endurance sports. Even with physical strength, without proper nutrition, it's futile. Santé's products provided the nutrition and supplements I needed to stay at the top of my game, allowing me to push my limits and achieve my goals," Santiago added.

Marcelo echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that the rigorous process of preparing for a triathlon necessitates a healthy companion. In a race involving three sports—biking, swimming, and running—a healthy support system is essential, one Santiago found with Santé and in Marcelo, Rivera, and the rest of the Santé Barley Tri-Team.

"The Santé Barley Tri-team started because we all share the same passion for the sport. This has become our bond and support system, strengthening camaraderie both as a team and as friends," Rivera said.

Shaping the future of triathlons in the country. Winning as the fastest Filipino finisher in this year’s IRONMAN World Championship is like claiming a gold medal in the Olympics, as described by Marcelo. It's more than bringing home the trophy; it serves as a reminder to support Filipino athletes in sports.

Santiago shares this sentiment, viewing the competition as an opportunity to inspire people to explore sports for both lifestyle improvement and a potential career. "Of course, I will continue exploring the world stage and be the best version of myself. My journey as a triathlete continues, as does my mission to empower people to live more, do more," Santiago added.

The Santé Barley Tri-Team is poised to expand its reach, with plans to create a team for kids and teens. Their goal is to train them either for the Santé Barley Tri-team’s professional team or the Philippine National Triathlon Team. Regardless of the direction, Rivera hopes Santiago's feat inspires people to engage in sports and exercise.

"All it takes is that very first step. That single step is enough to change your life because sports and exercising are good starting points to instill discipline and productivity," Rivera shared.

Perhaps, Santiago's story beyond the finish line will transcend racetracks and initiate a healthier change not just in the Philippines but across the globe.

With its mission to help people live better lives, Santé promotes, produces, and distributes natural health and wellness products and services. As the leading barley brand, Santé consistently delivers top-quality products to its loyal customers globally, solidifying its position as the barley authority.

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Taguig schools to receive eco-friendly handwashing stations in support of Global Handwashing Day

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In celebration of Global Handwashing Day, Procter & Gamble (P&G) Philippines, the multinational company behind the number 1 anti-bacterial soap in the Philippines Safeguard, is donating eco-friendly handwashing stations to 19 schools in Taguig City as part of its commitment to bringing health and hygiene to Filipinos across the country.

From left to right: P&G Philippines Corporate Communications Manager King Martin Agoncillo, Head of Taguig City Health Office Dr. Norena Osano, Taguig City Health Office Executive Assistant for Health Dr. Cecille Montales, and School Governance and Operations Division (SGOD) OIC Chief Dr. Roldan Jamindang

Global Handwashing Day is celebrated every year, on October 15, which aims to promote the importance of proper handwashing with soap as an easy and effective way to prevent the spread of germs and keep communities safe from diseases. 

This initiative is part of P&G's #SafeWASH program in collaboration with Manila Water Foundation, which aims to strengthen efforts to promote the importance of proper handwashing with soap and water in schools. The project underscores the significance of WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) in schools, a commitment at the core of the joint project between the two organizations. The eco-friendly handwashing stations will be constructed in partnership with Green Antz Builders using eco-bricks, which are made by turning plastic waste into durable building blocks. 

“These eco-friendly handwashing stations will promote proper WASH habits that will help protect students and teachers from disease-causing bacteria and viruses while also championing sustainability, says King Martin Agoncillo, Corporate Communications Manager at P&G Philippines. 

Sample eco-bricks that will be used to construct the 19 eco-friendly handwashing stations.

In another Global Handwashing Day Celebration, P&G supported Pasig LGU’s "Apir Tayo, Pasigueno! Global Handwashing Day Fair 2023" in partnership with Manila Water Foundation, benefitting over 1,000 Pasiguenos, including PWDs, 4Ps beneficiaries, Muslim market vendors, enforcers, and health workers.

P&G has been a consistent partner of MWF since 2020 in providing students with quality handwashing facilities; promoting health and hygiene through good handwashing practices. The partnership has since constructed 285 handwashing stations, reaching over 1 million students, teachers, and other school staff in over 285 schools in Metro Manila.