PNP Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil meets the Press, shared his vision for the future of the police force

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The 30th Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil recently meets various media organizations composed of TV, radio and print journalists and bloggers and he shared his vision for the future of the police force.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil 

Acknowledging the dedication of police officers, particularly in tasks like combating illegal drugs, the new PNP Chief pledged to establish legal support for personnel facing court charges linked to their duties.

He also underscored the significance of prioritizing the well-being of police officers to enhance their effectiveness in serving the community.

The new Chief of Police has mandated a ban on mobile phone usage to ensure officers prioritize their duties and responsibilities to the nation and its citizens. All police personnel are reminded to refrain from unnecessary phone use while on duty, with plans to increase police presence in communities.

Under the new leadership, the PNP remains committed to upholding professionalism, integrity, and service standards to safeguard the peace and security of the Filipino people.

Chief Marbil endorses PBBM's non-violent approach to combatting drugs, citing a recent seizure of over two tons of shabu by the PNP on April 15 without any casualties.

Upon assuming office as PNP Chief, Marbil pledged to prioritize the protection of human rights in the government's intensified anti-drug efforts, aiming to minimize street killings.

Marbil asserts that the PNP will conduct anti-drug operations resulting in thousands of arrests and the confiscation of millions worth of illegal drugs, all without any fatalities.

As the event concluded, Chief Marbil expressed gratitude to the organizers for providing a platform to share his vision for the Philippine National Police.

"I am grateful to the organizers for this event because it gives me a better chance to meet all media people, not just those assigned in our organization. I hope we could all work harmoniously for our country and for our safety," he remarked.

FEU spearheads 1st Ph research on stillbirth, neonatal deaths

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The research initiative “COntinuing care in COVID-19 Outbreak: A global survey of New expectant and bereaved parent experiences (COCOON)” is led by Far Eastern University (FEU), as the Philippines is one of its contributing countries.

“COCOON Philippines is a collaborative project between FEU and the University of Queensland. It is a global project conducted in different countries. We are also collaborating with Mater Research Institute, King’s College London, and International Stillbirth Alliance.,” said Dr. Joemer Maravilla, supervising coordinator of COCOON and adjunct faculty of the FEU Nursing Department.

FEU is primarily funding COCOON Philippines through its University Research Assistance Grant (URAG), a university-wide research time and financial assistance to FEU academic researchers. The project is currently funded until 2026 and is headed by the principal investigator Asst. Prof. Joycelyn Abiog Filoteo of the Nursing Department, with Dr. Ana Nelia Lopez Jumamil of the Psychology Department as co-leads.

The project is one of the first projects in the university wherein two disciplines collaborate: nursing and psychology. It is also the first study in the Philippines that aims to look at the social determinants of stillbirth and neonatal deaths to parents.

Maravilla explained that according to the Department of Health, the Philippine government has no specific projects on bereavement care for mothers who had experienced stillbirth and neonatal death thus, positioning COCOON Philippines in the forefront in accessing and understanding the experiences and concerns of bereaved parents and developing support services appropriate for them.

Meanwhile, according to the 2021 World Health Organization country key indicators, the Philippines has a still birth rate of 10.17 per 1000 births, and a neonatal mortality rate of 12.28 (0-27 completed days of life) per 1000 births. Moreover, the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund released an article last January 2023 mentioning that the Philippines has an annual record of more than 25,000 stillborn babies.

“The focus of the country, at the moment, is to help mothers with safe deliveries but in cases of loss, we have no guidelines or in-depth data on it in the Philippines. We know there are cases of stillbirth and neonatal losses, but we do not know the solutions, the coping strategies we can introduce to help the grieving parents. And that is one of the expected outcomes of our study,” said Maravilla.

COCOON Philippines aims to include 1,100 participants, composed of pregnant women, women who experienced stillbirth and neonatal death, and their partners. The data collection involves a mixed self-administered online survey and face-to-face survey in Metro Manila and Region IV-A (CALABARZON). Research participants will receive P250 as compensation for their time taking the survey.

As of this moment, COCOON Philippines already launched it official Facebook page and will serve as the research’s avenue in looking for additional participants. If people want to join this global initiative to improve women’s health and bereavement services, or if they know of others who are willing to participate, they can visit and message https://www.facebook.com/cocoon.

pinas.

Due to the sensitive nature of the study, links to online survey will not be released publicly and will only be given to the successfully screened participants.

Jobstreet by SEEK democratizes platform, offers free job posts for all employers

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As it continues to revolutionize the employment market in the new age of hiring, Jobstreet by SEEK has democratized its all-new platform with Free Lite Ads, giving employers the opportunity to post unlimited job listings anytime and for any role, for free.

Employers in need of job applicants need not worry about their hiring budget as Free Lite Ads let you enjoy free access and seamless hiring on the Philippines’ largest AI-powered career platform that delivers faster and better matches. Jobstreet by SEEK has the largest talent pool with over 11.6 million Filipino registered candidates so you can ensure greater talent reach and applications.

This initiative seeks to empower employers with freedom and value, strengthening Jobstreet by SEEK’s goal of attaining eight million jobs nationwide, and allowing small to medium enterprises (SMEs) and large businesses to meet their demands for quality talent.

“Jobstreet by SEEK has been essential to employers in streamlining their hiring processes. That is why we continue to innovate and ensure efficiency and flexibility among our existing and potential partner employers every step of the way, thereby empowering them with the freedom to utilize our platform to assist them in finding the best talents,” shared Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director, Philippines, Jobstreet by SEEK.

Whether you’re a startup looking to expand your team or a multinational company seeking professional candidates, you can take advantage of unlimited Free Lite Ads and create your job listings, visible to candidates for 30 days per job post.

To maximize the platform and keep up with today’s highly competitive job market, hirers may also explore other premium features, providing up to [1]3X more applications through priority listing, company branding opportunities to help job posts stand out, and access to analytics and reporting, among others. These essential features can help employers prioritize and centralize the visibility of their job posts, attracting more talent from across the Asia-Pacific region.

Early this year, Jobstreet by SEEK introduced its newly transformed platform promising better matches for hirers and candidates. The new platform deploys AI models to assess talent suitability and provide highly personalized recommendations by processing data from various sources, including resumes, job ad descriptions, and the employer’s past behaviors. This allows employers to find the best match faster.

To learn more about Free Lite Ads, check out: https://ph.employer.seek.com/products/jobads.

[1] Jobstreet by SEEK premium account offers 3X more job applications vs free account

Ruth Cabal Headlines Rapid News Updates on TV5’s Frontline Express

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Get ready for a swift dive into the latest headlines as TV5 emerges as your ultimate destination for quick news updates this summer. The Kapatid network proudly introduces esteemed journalist Ruth Cabal as the anchor of their new afternoon newscast, Frontline Express, a concise yet comprehensive 15-minute live news update that airs every Monday to Friday at 3:15 PM.

With a distinguished career marked by widespread acclaim, Ruth Cabal stands as a stalwart figure in the world of journalism. Her previous endeavors include anchoring CNN Philippines’ daily Filipino newscast, Newsroom Ngayon, producing numerous audio-video packages and live reports. She also served as a trusted broadcasting part-time lecturer at a state university. Her fearless pursuit of truth and dedication to quality reporting have earned her respect and admiration from peers and viewers alike.

Renowned for her incisive reporting and insightful commentary, Ruth Cabal brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role as the newest anchor of Frontline Express. Her addition to the program not only strengthens TV5’s commitment to delivering accurate and engaging news but also symbolizes a full-circle moment as Ruth returns to her roots, having started her career with TV5, then ABC 5.

Frontline Express is designed to provide audiences with a quick and reliable source of information, allowing viewers to stay informed without the disruption of their daily routines. With Ruth Cabal at the helm, this marks another significant milestone for TV5 in strengthening the network’s news and information arm, News5. Ruth’s extensive experience as a seasoned and well-rounded journalist ensures that viewers will receive top-notch reporting and analysis.

Tune in for a dynamic and insightful 15-minute live news update with one of the country’s most reputable journalists. Don't miss Ruth Cabal as she navigates through the headlines on Frontline Express every Monday to Friday at 3:15PM, and soon in more of TV5’s news and current affair programs.

Sun Life Global Solutions Philippines gets GPTW certified for the 4th time in a row

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Sun Life Global Solutions (SLGS) Philippines, a microcosm of the global insurance and asset management leader Sun Life, is once again certified as a Great Place to Work (GPTW) organization. This is the fourth consecutive year that the organization has received the certification and its first GPTW certification since it repositioned itself as Sun Life Global Solutions. The Survey results draw on the employees’ responses to an independently conducted survey by the Great Place to Work®, the global authority on workplace culture.

The outcome of the survey shows that 93% people feel that they are fairly treated regardless of their sexual orientation, 92% experienced fair treatment regardless of race or gender, 91% affirm that the workplace is physically safe, and 90% shared a sense of pride on being a Sun Lifer and would like to tell others about the same.

The GPTW award reflects the strong foundation we have built together as a team. A foundation that is powered by our Purpose and a culture of deep care. We care for the well-being of our clients, for their healthier lives and financial security. We care for each other; we are emotionally vested in each other’s success. What inspires me is the fact that our teams are the driving force behind constantly building a purpose and values driven, deeply caring and empowered workplace. Together we advance our Purpose to inspire brighter future for all those who count upon us, clients, colleagues, and communities,” said Tarun Sareen, Managing Director, Sun Life Global Solutions.

Adding to the thoughts shared by Tarun, Vice President and Site Head of SLGS Philippines Nathalie Bernardo also talked about how this certification is an inspiration for her to continue furthering the organization’s programs in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, employee recognition and advocacy work.

 

“We are truly grateful for this honorific by Great Place to Work as we continue to foster a culture that embraces diversity; champions work-life harmony; aims to unleash everyone’s full potential; is about purpose and teamwork at its core; and fulfills its social responsibility.  Our goal is for every employee to feel heard and empowered to make a positive impact both with the organization and in our community," Bernardo shared. The organization celebrated this feat during the recently culminated SLGS’ Moments of Togetherness and Celebration event.

What further makes it an employer of choice are the inclusive and equitable opportunities where each employee is encouraged to push their boundaries of imagination to solve for the business and the world. This culture of innovation is fueled by the collaborative and inclusive culture at SLGS where employees can grow and thrive, with a drive towards innovation, a commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEI&B) and embedding a culture of sustainability.

Over the years, SLGS has emerged as a talent and innovation hub, driving seamless digital transformation and providing technology, knowledge services and business services to Sun Life businesses globally, helping its clients achieve lifetime financial security and live healthier lives – its core purpose and mission. SLGS works with Sun Life teams across the group to support clients in areas such as operations, technology, actuarial, legal, and more.

To learn more about Sun Life Global Solutions, visit https://www.sunlife.com/slgs/en/

TV5’s Budol Alert Exposes Scams in the Philippines

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Scams have become a growing concern globally, impacting even the US with $10.1 billion in losses in 2022 and the Philippines with a hefty Php 1 billion stolen by scammers in the same year. In 2023, the Philippines was ranked 5th worldwide for scamming incidents.

To help counter this illegal industry, TV5 is launching Budol Alert, a news and public affairs show focusing on various scams and schemes in the Philippines. Premiering on March 17, this program goes by the battlecry "Maging Alerto, Huwag Magpabudol," rallying Filipinos to stay vigilant on various scams, including phishing, smishing, and fraudulent online shopping tactics.

Spearheaded by trusted veteran broadcast journalist and News5 Head Luchi Cruz-Valdes, Budol Alert presents the comprehensive news gathering and storytelling from the young and promising breed of News5 reporters composed of Gio Robles, Shyla Francisco, Reiniel Pawid, Dave Abuel, Briane Basa, Jes Delos Santos, and Nikki De Guzman. The show also features comprehensive reports from seasoned News5 journalists Mon Gualvez, MaeAnne Los Banos, and Marianne Enriquez.

Gio Robles has been with News5 since 2022 and has covered major stories like the Socorro Cult and the West Philippine Sea dispute. Shyla Francisco is an award-winning reporter who has garnered honors such as the 2023 Broadcast Journalist of the Year (Agriculture) by PAJ SMC BINHI Awards. Reiniel Pawid has been a reporter for seven years and is a news producer who was awarded the 2022 Gandingan Award for the most development-oriented news story.

Dave Abuel brings 12 years of experience as a news Producer and reporter. Briane Basa hosts digital explainers on Covid-19 and global affairs. Jes Delos Santos and Nikki De Guzman are known as news anchors for Frontline Pilipinas Weekend and Gud Morning Kapatid.

Mon Gualvez is a seasoned news veteran with 12 years of experience and was awarded the 2023 Gawad Pilipino Awards for Outstanding TV Reporter. MaeAnne Los Banos has 15 years of experience as a Senior Correspondent for News5, One News, and One PH and anchored programs such as Frontline Tonight; she also secured the 2019 Edward Murrow Fellowship for Journalists USA. Lastly, Marianne Enriquez, a reporter and producer of news and public affairs for 13 years, received the 2014 Gawad Tanglaw Award for Best Public Affairs Program for the show Reaksyon.

"With our new breed and award-winning pool of correspondents presenting eye-opening stories in each episode of Budol Alert, we help empower Filipinos with the right knowledge so that they are well-informed and protected from different kinds of frauds and scams, whether physical or online. This is our commitment, and we vow to dig deeper and make Filipinos smarter than these scammers," News5 Chief and Budol Alert main host Luchi Cruz-Valdes shared.

Don’t be the next victim! Know about the latest scams in Budol Alert, airing Sundays starting March 17, 4:30 PM on TV5. For more information and updates, follow the official social media pages of TV5 on Facebook, Instagram, X app, and YouTube. You can also visit their website at https://www.tv5.com.ph/.

Company sees 42% subscription revenue growth in 2023 and the end of the year realizing the 66th quarter of consecutive ARR growth

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RELEX Closes 2023 with Record Customer Growth

RELEX Solutions announced closing 2023 with remarkable growth across annual recurring revenue (ARR), customer net promoter score (NPS) satisfaction, and new customer signings. Overall, RELEX saw 42% year-over-year growth of reported subscription revenue in 2023, and in Q4 2023 realized its 66th quarter of consecutive ARR growth. This growth is attributed to new and expanded customer signings across the globe, as a variety of retailers and consumer goods companies recognize the deep value inherent in the company’s supply chain and retail planning solutions. RELEX delivers quick time to value, and has a flawless track record of successful implementations in the company’s decade-plus history.

“The bedrock of our customer promise lies in delivering measurable, impactful results, very quickly. We stand by the premise of ‘doing what we say we’re going to do’ which not only instills trust, but confidence,” said Mikko Kärkkäinen, group CEO and co-founder, RELEX Solutions. “I’m very proud of our growth this year, which is directly attributed to the lasting relationships we form with customers from day one.”

In 2023, RELEX closed nearly 200 customer deals, of which 73 were net-new customers. Some of the new customers RELEX signed in 2023 included A.F. Blakemore & Son, bp, Casey’s, Fressnapf, Koala Furniture, Obramax, OXXO, PriceSmart, United Natural Foods, US Foods® CHEF’STORE™ and 7-Eleven Australia. RELEX also saw a 31% increase in customers that chose to expand their business with RELEX to capture additional business value in 2023, which speaks to the measurable results and value customers gain working with RELEX, as evidenced by a company-high NPS rating of 61 globally. The average NPS score for a SaaS company is 41; RELEX consistently scores well above the industry average each quarter.

With the recent acquisition of Optimity, RELEX also welcomes 80+ customers across highly complex manufacturing and food and beverage industries including Blendwell, Bubbies Ice Cream, Vita Coco, and Finsbury. These customers join the roster of consumer goods companies at RELEX including Altia, Angulas Aguinaga, Atria, Hennig-Olsen, Maag Group, and Saarioinen, among others. Across retail, wholesale distribution, and manufacturing, RELEX currently has a portfolio of over 500 happy customers.

NREA sets program to boost PH reality sector

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Envisioning a robust and vibrant real estate sector in 2024, the National Real Estate Association (NREA) is primed to launch a comprehensive set of initiatives to stimulate activity within the industry. Such was the objective laid out by Red J. Rosales, NREA’s new national president, following the association’s recent Strategic Planning Session and Board Meeting held at the Makati Sports Club on January 10, 2024.

Consultant Imelda C. Magtoto, NREA Chairperson, disclosed that the NREA’s upcoming year-round activities are expected to empower members and real estate practitioners in their quest to boost the country’s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program, which aims to see every Filipino have a home to call their own.

NREA STRATEGIC PLANNING SESSION AND 1ST BOARD MEETING, JANUARY 10-, 2024, 1:00 – 5:00 PM AT DASMARINAS ROOM, MAKATI SPORTS CLUB.

Seated from left : Exec. Vice President Ma. Loren B. Sales; President Red J. Rosales; Board Chairlady Imelda C. Magtoto and Board Vice Chair Ruth Marie C. Atienza.

Standing from extreme left : Trustee and Education Chairman Rodolfo D. Leonen; Treasurer Nicole Lim Choa; Vice President for Chapter Affairs Zenaida S Fruto; PRO Christian Q. Mulingbayan; Vice President for External Affairs Ador Z. Tolentino, Jr.; Vice President for Internal Affairs Jovi Francis W. Tupaz; Member Lemuel B. Branal; Secretary General Lourdes Bernadette B. Carlos and NREA Metro Rizal Chapter President Cheryl Sanguyo.

Red J. Rosales, NREA’s new national president

All these projects will run under the overarching 2024 theme: “NREA Realizing the Dream of a Thriving Real Estate Industry”.

The following committees were formed to implement NREA’s programs and projects this year: (1) Network Expansion, headed by VP-Chapters Zenaida Fruto; (2) Revenue Generation, led by Treasurer Nicole Lim Choa; (3) Engagements, led by VP-Internal Jovi Francis Tupaz along with Vice Chair Trustee Alma Grace Sarra; (4) Education, led by Trustee and Education Chairman Rodolfo Leonen; (5) Advocacy, led by VP-External Lawyer Ador Z. Tolentino, Jr.; and (6) Public Relations, headed by PRO Christian Mulingbayan along with Vice Chair Christopher Cahilig.

President Rosales also announced his five-point plan for the NREA:

First, the enhancement of member engagements and benefits. The NREA hopes to develop a comprehensive engagement strategy that will drive members to participate in organization activities and decision-making processes. Part of these will be the establishment of a mentorship program and the creation of exclusive perks and benefits for NREA members.

Second, the promotion of industry research and thought leadership. The organization is set to establish an NREA Research Center to spearhead research initiatives, analyze and study industry data, and generate actionable recommendations for the sector’s growth and development.

Third, the expansion of global partnerships and market access by establishing an international presence for NREA through overseas offices and representatives that can provide localized support and services to Filipino real estate professionals operating abroad.

Fourth, the acceptance of social responsibility and sustainability. A NREA Sustainability Task Force will be mounted to develop and implement sustainable practices within the organization and encourage members to adopt environmentally conscious real estate strategies.

Lastly, the empowerment of the next generation of real estate leaders. A NREA Youth Council will be created to provide a platform for young members to engage with the organization, share their perspectives, and contribute to NREA’s growth and innovation.

Indeed, the year 2024 is looking bright for the NREA. They hope to build on their reputation and goodwill within the industry and continue working with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development as a longtime partner and collaborator. With their focus turned to these objectives, President Red J. Rosales is confident that the NREA will affirm its status as the “One-Stop Trade Organization”.

Bayad strikes alliance with Pisopay.com, powering bills payment services

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Bayad, the pioneer brand in the outsourced payment collection system in the Philippines, beefs up its partnership with Pisopay.com Inc., a cloud-based financial application provider taking a more aggressive stance in the e-commerce industry through its remittance and bills payment services.

CHAMPIONING DIGITAL FINANCIAL INCLUSION: In photo from left to right are Pisopay.com CEO Ariel Surca, Pisopay.com Chairman Jae Jung Jang, Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer, and Bayad Chief Marketing Officer Dennis Gatuslao.

Under the partnership, Pisopay.com will integrate its biller brands with Bayad, allowing Bayad’s physical and digital touchpoints to accept payments for government institutions like Bureau of Quarantine, LTFRB, and selected LGUs nationwide, academic institutions like Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, National Maritime Polytechnic, Baliwag Maritime Academy and Scuola Maria in Batangas, e-commerce business like Palengke.PH, and many others.

Bayad President and CEO Lawrence Y. Ferrer shares “We value the way people do payments, and we make sure to highlight security and convenience in our collection service. This is why we are constantly maximizing our cybersecurity measures and upgrading our real time posting features to enhance end to end transaction processing. Through our partnership with Pisopay, we believe that we will be able to serve Filipinos from all walks of life as we elevate their payment experience”

Pisopay.com Chairman Jae Jung Jang also shares: "Pisopay is your worry-free financial partner, powering businesses with fast, secure payments, collection, and remittances. We're a one-stop shop, simplifying complex finances through trusted technology. Let us handle your money worries so you can focus on what matters. We respect the value of your hard work, and the least of your worries will be how your transaction is treated, and with our partnership with Bayad, we are assured of double security and a wider reach to our clients nationwide, especially to communities that are unbanked, providing a seamless service, wherever and whenever.”

 

For fintech institutions like Pisopay.com that are interested to be part of Bayad’s extensive bills payment collection network, you may send an email to partnerships@bayad.com. Bayad enables partners to attain nationwide presence and provides end-to-end support services for efficient payment and collection processing. 

 

TVJ secures trademark for ‘Eat Bulaga!’ name

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Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon made an special announcement as they have won the legal battle against the Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE) over the trademark ownership of the "Eat Bulaga" name.

TVJ happily announce on their Facebook page earlier today, January 5, 2024, that they won the copyright infringement and unfair competition cases against TAPE, GMA-7.

TVJ announced that they emerged victorious over the trademark battle as the Marikina court dismissed TAPE’s claims of copyright infringement and unfair competition.

The Marikina Regional Trial Court ruled in favor of the hosting trio of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon, collectively known as TVJ, giving them the trademark ownership of “Eat Bulaga” in a case they had filed against Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE).

The court’s ruling states that TAPE Inc. and GMA Network are not entitled to use the trademark, logo or theme song of “Eat Bulaga! “as well as to air episodes without proper permission and authorization.

“Wherefore, judgment is hereby rendered in favor of the plaintiffs (which include TVJ) against the defendants (TAPE and GMA Network),” Sotto read.The court in Marikina also declared that the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) should cancel TAPE’s trademarks for “Eat Bulaga!” and “EB” on all records including its website.

“Moreover, defendants… marami pang binabanggit at lahat in favor sa atin,” affirmed Tito.

Vic summarized the announcement by simply declaring their triumph, “Sa madaling salita… nanalo po tayo,” said Vic as he held back his tears amid the announcement.

“Patunay ito na sinasabi na tayo ang may-ari ng ‘Eat Bulaga,'” Tito said.

"Sa madaling salita, atin talaga ang Eat Bulaga," Vic said before ushering the production team to join them on the stage and sing the show's iconic theme song

The Facebook live concluded with TVJ and the production staff rejoicing over the “Eat Bulaga!” theme song.

The trio extended their gratitude to the Marikina Regional Trial Court, their lawyers, the production staff, family and friends, and to the Lord.

Tito said “Maraming salamat sa iyong pagtangkilik. Maraming salamat sa dasal, at unang-una sa lahat sa Panginoong Diyos. Thank you very much, Lord God.” 

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.

Y Combinator-backed stock trading platform Cera rolls out in the Philippines

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Cera, a US stock trading platform backed by Y Combinator, in partnership with Fireblocks, announced its Beta launch, allowing Filipinos and anyone anywhere in the world to invest in US stocks using stablecoins.

Cera enables users to invest in US stocks using stablecoins such as USD Coin, Tether (USDT), and Binance USD. Each of these coins is pegged to a value of $1, ensuring stability and eliminating the hassle of complex account setups and international transactions.

Users are now able to buy and trade a wide range of stocks, including energy companies, healthcare providers, and tech giants such as Tesla Inc. (TSLA), Apple Inc. (AAPL), and Microsoft Corporation (MSFT).

“Cera is revolutionizing the entryway to the US stock market through a seamless deposit, purchase, and trade process. Our core values of stability, transparency, and accessibility ensure that diverse global communities including Filipinos can confidently engage with the market," Cera’s Product Lead, Daniel Phan said.

Cera's platform makes the US stock market accessible as it allows investing as little as $2. The platform supports investments in fractional shares, offering increased flexibility to users.

As part of its launch, for a limited time, Cera offers up to $50 for new sign-ups that make eligible deposits. Their attractive referral program is also available for users who introduce friends to the platform.

“We aspire to empower anyone in the world with global investment opportunities, emphasizing ease and user fund security. Our partnership with Fireblocks ensures that our users always have control over their investments,” Phan said.

Cera app is available on Google Play and Apple Store.