Manulife Survey Shows Filipino Consumers See Managing Healthcare Costs as Critical for Financial Well-Being in Later Life

Tweet

A healthy lifestyle and good physical well-being are the essential elements for positive financial and mental well-being among consumers in the Philippines as they plan for longer lifespans, and lengthier and more comfortable retirements, according to new research by Manulife. Yet financial confidence among Filipinos is low amid concerns about inflation, particularly rising healthcare costs.

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

• Survey of 1,050 consumers in the Philippines focuses on health and long-term savings for longer life spans

• Rising healthcare costs is the number one concern, while medical inflation perceptions are too high 

• Most people in the Philippines do not rely on their children to provide for them in old age

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

Manulife’s new Asia Care Survey 2024 drew on responses from 1,050 consumers in the Philippines. It launched Manulife’s MyFuture Readiness Index, which measures how consumers view their current and future physical, mental, and financial well-being. On a scale of 1 to 100, the index shows their desired readiness level to be 91, which is above the regional average, but the expected level to be 79, suggesting a lack of confidence about the future.

According to the Filipinos surveyed, the top five challenges impacting confidence in their future well-being are: rising healthcare costs (82%), inflation/rising costs of living (81%), economic slowdown/recession (78%), increasing interest rates (78%) and health trending down (73%). 

To help save and prepare for their envisioned future, including for greater longevity, retirement and unexpected medical needs, the Filipinos surveyed highlighted having a passive income after retirement (43%), having sufficient savings for a rainy day (39%), financial freedom in retirement (32%) and having enough savings for healthcare needs (31%) as their main financial goals.

“The survey reveals a lot of anxiety around economic volatility, healthcare-related expenses and uncertainty, which dampens the optimism of many Filipinos in achieving high-quality well-being in the future,” said Rahul Hora, President and CEO, Manulife Philippines. “But there are ways to address these concerns so they are future-proofed. Significant of these is the value of financial advice and guidance that can help them assess and bring their goals closer to fruition, mitigate risks, and find the right products that provide stronger health and life protection, as well as investment and retirement solutions.” 

Healthcare costs perceived to be too expensive

In the survey, 82% cited rising healthcare costs as a top threat– a percentage that rises to 86% among 50 to 60-year-olds. Their concerns are understandable given that 44.7% of health expenses in the Philippines are out-of-pocket, in total reaching US$9 billion in 2022. It is an amount that Manulife expects to reach US$13 billion by 2028 and account for 38% of their overall medical expenses. 

“We see in the Philippines a realization of longer life expectancy and people rightly want to enjoy good health for a longer time. Healthcare costs trump inflation as their main concern for the future, with women being in general more concerned than men,” said Hora. “To navigate this, there is a need for effective financial planning. It is fair to expect medical costs to rise faster than inflation given aging populations and increased pressure on healthcare services, but our survey suggests that perceptions on the extent of such rises are well above actuality.” 

The survey shows that over the past 12 months, the perception of the Filipinos surveyed on healthcare cost inflation was 32%, the highest in the region (average 23%) and around three times the actual rate. Most respondents (61%) are concerned about the rises in cost of prescriptions, while 59% of them are worried about hospitalization, and 45% about preventive healthcare. Curiously, elderly care (16%) is much lower.  

The potential illnesses that worry people in the Philippines the most are heart disease (46%), the leading cause of death in the country, diabetes (42%), stroke (34%) and cancer (31%).  With the broader concerns about their physical well-being and rising medical costs, 78% of the respondents agree that increasing insurance coverage and benefits for inflation is a crucial part of planning for my future financial well-being.  

The findings show a sizeable segment adopting a strategy of using less expensive healthcare (41%) services and medicines (53%), well above the regional average of 31% and 29% respectively. According to the survey, this would typically mean using government health services and generic drugs, rather than going private. Alongside that, about three quarters are exercising more or improving their diet.

Children no longer viewed as alternative to a pension

Across all the markets covered in Asia, 7 out of 10 of those surveyed said they feel health benefits and coverage from their employers are not enough. In the Philippines, it was a little higher at 76%. As things stand, 78% of the Filipinos surveyed feel a need to top up retirement and pension benefits they receive from their employers to boost their future financial well-being. In addition, 58% are looking to delay retirement because of their financial responsibility for their family.

Traditionally in Asia and elsewhere in the world, an alternative to insurance and a pension for old age would be having children. But that is not the case now in the Philippines where 58% of the Filipinos surveyed disagree that children are great investments because they provide support in old age. Only Japan had a higher rating at 70%. In the markets covered, half those surveyed said they do not plan to have kids. The average number of children wanted by Asians is 1.6. In the Philippines, the preferred number is 1.8.

“We encourage more Filipinos to consider ways to increase their health protection. At the same time, insurers have an important role in helping them do that, including changing perceptions on health costs and focusing on specific individual needs. There’s a need also for greater financial literacy,” said Hora. “Doing that will enable everyone to focus on ways to effectively address the challenges on health protection and long-term savings that exist.”

To help address the unique needs of Filipinos when it comes to their health, well-being and finances, Manulife Philippines offers a suite of innovative insurance and investment solutions that can help them financially prepare for the future, while ensuring life and health protection coverage in case of the unexpected. 

About the Manulife Asia Care Survey 2024 

In its fifth year running, the latest Manulife Asia Care Survey was conducted in January and February 2024 via online self-completed questionnaires in eight markets. A total of 8,400 individuals, evenly split between men and women, aged 25 to 60 years old were surveyed: mainland China (1,052), Hong Kong (1,052), Indonesia (1,063), Japan (1,000), Malaysia (1,038), Philippines (1,050), Singapore (1,038) and Vietnam (1,107).  Each of those surveyed either owns insurance or intends to buy insurance. For more info, visit www.manulife.com.ph 

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider that helps people make their decisions easier and live better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we provide financial advice and insurance, operating as Manulife across Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States. Through Manulife Investment Management, the global brand for our Global Wealth and Asset Management segment, we serve individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2023, we had more than 38,000 employees, over 98,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 35 million customers. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ in Hong Kong.

Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.

Kim Chiu is the ambassador of Brilliant Skin Essentials' latest product Hello Melo Drink

Tweet

Brilliant Skin Essentials hosted a remarkable event to celebrate several key milestones: the grand launch of their latest product, Hello Melo Drink, in demand actress Kim Chiu as their newest endorser, alongside the contract signings with F&D and iFuel, held at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan on June 2, 2024.

The event commenced with the much-anticipated contract signing with F&D of Brilliant Skin Essentials.

Miss Glenda dela Cruz, CEO of Brilliant Skin Essentials, opened the event with inspiring remarks. She stated, 

“Nandito ‘yong Lola ko, ‘yong family ko. She’s  (Miss Glenda’s Inang) the reason why kung bakit ako nandito, gusto kong ipakita sa kanya na lahat ng pinaghirapan mo, ito na ‘yong bunga ng marami ng nagmamahal sa apo mo, and ang dami pong nagmamahal sa Brilliant Skin— lalo na po kayo (F&D). Kaya sabi ko bibigyan ko ng magandang launching ang Hello Melo, ang ating bagong product.”

The attendees had the chance to win raffle prizes, including Brilliant Medical Group treatments, cash prizes, and major prizes such as Zion Eye Massagers, Zion Deluxe Massage Chairs, and an MG Car. Beyond the raffle prizes, attendees also enjoyed fun games that kept the energy high throughout the day.

The event was further enlivened by performances from actress Arci Muñoz and actor Paulo Avelino. Both artists engaged the audience with discussions on how Brilliant Medical Group helped them with their acne problems and how they achieved the no-pore look with the help of Brilliant Medical Group and Miss Glenda.

“I really appreciate you, Glenda. Thank you so much for inviting me to be part of your family, this wonderful group, and your empire. Thank you so much...Brilliant Skin lang ang naka-help sa acne problem ko,” Arci said.

Paulo Avelino added, “Wala po akong masyadong alam pero nung pumunta po ako (Brilliant Medical Group) sabi ko, ‘Doc Ikaw na pong bahala.’ So may mga favorite po ako, ‘yong hydrafacial, and of course there’s this new laser na ginagamit nila to lighten the pigments of your skin, which is very good bilang prone rin ako sa acne.”

A highlight of the event was the grand launch of the beauty drink, Hello Melo Drink. Actress Kim Chiu took the stage to perform and was officially signed as the brand's endorser. She shared her excitement, “I am very excited for this collaboration. Tsaka syempre more collagen, mas babata talaga tayo kasi nga sabi sa study nawawalan ka ng 1% collagen every year, kaya nagmumukha kang matanda but with the help of Helo Melo, lahat tayo babata.”

Showtime host also participated in a Q&A session with the media, discussing her new role and the benefits of Hello Melo Drink.

“‘Pag masaya ka sa buhay mo magrereflect din yan sa mukha mo na maaliwalas, mukhang masaya ka, mukhang maganda ka kasi di mo pinoproblema ‘yong problemang di mo kailangang problemahin. So just live in the moment, mabuhay ka lang. Gawin mo lang ano magpapasaya sa ‘yo and kung ano ‘yong magpapaganda sa ‘yo.” Kim.

Another significant moment was the third contract signing of the day with iFuel.

The event saw an impressive turnout of nearly 1,200 attendees, including franchisees and distributors from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Adding to the star-studded affair was the presence of actor Daniel Matsunaga, whose appearance added even more excitement to the event.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Miss Shed P. Garcia, COO who said, “Dami nating attendees, I can’t imagine na magagawa ‘to ni Brilliant na sobrang short notice lang. And sabi nga ni Miss Glenda, grateful sya kasi kahit short notice pinupuntahan talaga nila ‘yong event ni Brilliant.”

For more updates on the event, follow the official hashtags #BrilliantSummer and #BrilliantSkinEssentials. For more details about the brand, be sure to follow and check out @missglenda on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

 

All Smiles for Summer: Your Guide to Oral Health Amidst Adventure

Tweet

Make Listerine Total Care your oral care buddy this summer

With the peak of summer approaching, our schedules are heating up just like the weather, as everyone is beginning to schedule their travel plans and make the most of the sun-soaked days ahead. Before jumping into your exciting plans, make sure to not only prioritize protecting your outward appearances, but also your oral health. Ensuring that your smiles remain as bright as the summer sun amidst the adventure.

To keep your smile bright and your mouths healthy, here’s your quick guide to keeping your oral health at tip-top shape in the midst of your summer plans– curated by Macoy Dubs, Mikee Reyes, and Camille Neri.

1. Stay hydrated at all times

If there’s one thing Lisa B, Aunt Julie, and Macoy Dubs’ many personas can agree on– it’s to stay hydrated this summer! Macoy Dubs shares that he stays hydrated to prevent dehydration and to keep his body cool overall. He notes, “Hydration is key, mga kaibigan! Especially during the scorching summer heat. Water is like fuel for our bodies, keeping us energized and functioning well,” Macoy also notes how staying hydrated is also one way to keep his oral health in shape, “Hydration isn't just about quenching thirst; it's also crucial for maintaining good oral health. Drinking water helps flush out food particles and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and bad breath. Plus, it promotes saliva production, which is our natural defense against oral diseases.”

Studies show that our mouths are more prone to become dry because of the warmer weather. A dry mouth can create an environment in which bacteria thrive. Saliva plays a crucial role in washing away food particles and bacteria from the mouth. When saliva production decreases due to dehydration or dry mouth, it can lead to an accumulation of bacteria, increasing the risk of oral health issues such as cavities, plaque, and gum disease. Bacteria that brushing alone cannot eradicate. That’s why you need a mouthwash like Listerine to reach the whole mouth and kill the germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and gum problems brushing alone misses.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5yFMHTxeME/?igsh=a21nbnZudDlxenFo

This is why Macoy Dubs makes it a point to include Listerine Total Care in his routine on top of staying hydrated, to help keep the germs away.

2. Maintain a consistent and thorough oral care regimen, even on the go

As a former athlete, broadcaster, and content creator, Mikee Reyes thrives on established habits. He comments how integrating Listerine into his oral care regimen lessened his encounters with plaque, "Ever since I started integrating Listerine into my oral care regimen, I've noticed a significant reduction in plaque build-up," Mikee is a firm believer that well established habits lead to good outcomes, "During my appointments, my dentist noticed that there was less plaque build-up, and that my teeth haven’t been developing cavities or signs of gum problems which mean that my oral health is in its most ideal state. Now, I don’t need to worry about oral problems in the middle of all my summer plans.”

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4xFXX8vx6K/?igsh=Y2Ryam5sNDUwbHJr

Clearly, he makes sure he never skips all the steps of his routines, completing his oral hygiene routine by using Listerine Total Care after every brush.

Miggy Gamboa, Kenvue Philippines’ marketing manager, shares how having a thorough oral care regimen frees the millions of Filipinos from being held back by various oral diseases, “Being able to prevent the common oral health issues such as plaque, cavities, and gum problems lessens the burdens faced by the common Filipino allowing them to focus more on enjoying the adventures that summer brings without the worry of dental discomfort or pain holding them back.”

3. Be more proactive in protecting oneself from the heat and from germs

Camille Neri is a firm believer of what she calls ‘life upgrades’ – things or habits that lead to one experiencing an improved quality of life. To her, being more proactive to keep herself protected from the summer heat also includes her adopting a regular sunscreen routine, carrying a refillable water bottle everywhere she goes, and even indulging herself with a cool, sweet treat here and there. Camille’s proactivity also extends to her protecting her oral health from germs, details the importance of consistency in oral care. "Maintaining oral health is a commitment, especially during the summer when we're more prone to indulging in treats and drinks that can harm our teeth. With Listerine Total Care as part of my daily routine, I feel confident knowing that I'm giving my mouth the protection it needs, no matter what adventures the summer brings."

https://www.tiktok.com/@misscamilleneri/video/7346134029256690950?_r=1&_t=8lcwcpYuzdg

So, as we embrace the adventures that summer brings, let’s remember to always stay hydrated, maintain a consistent and thorough oral health routine, and be more proactive in protecting ourselves from external aggressors. Let’s not forget to prioritize our oral health and integrate Listerine Total Care into our daily routine. With a bright smile and a healthy mouth, we're ready to seize every moment of the sun-soaked season ahead.

Your oral care regimen can now be with you on your summer adventures– Listerine Total Care comes in travel-friendly sizes that give you #CompleteMouthProtection on the go. Shop now at the official Listerine Lazada and Shopee shops, or in the nearest drugstore or supermarket nearest you.

_____________

About Kenvue

Kenvue is the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue. Built on more than a century of heritage and propelled forward by science, our iconic brands — including AVEENO®, BAND-AID® Brand Adhesive Bandages, JOHNSON’S®, LISTERINE®, NEUTROGENA®, TYLENOL® and ZYRTEC® — are recommended by health care professionals and can be trusted by consumers who use our products to improve their daily lives. Our team members share a digital-first mindset, with an approach to innovation grounded in deep human insights and work every day to earn a place for our products in consumers’ hearts and homes. At Kenvue, we believe everyday care can not only make people well; it can make them whole.

Santé: Leading the Game in Health and Wellness Scene Through Acceleration and Innovation

Tweet

Discover the company's journey to staying at the forefront of empowering people to live more, do more.

More and more people are focusing on taking care of themselves, and this has created a big market for health and wellness products. The thriving industry emerged to promote health and act as catalysts for innovation and acceleration. 

Among these, Santé, one of the fastest-growing distribution and direct-selling companies globally dedicated to helping people live better lives, stands out. Through transformative products and services, they help people live better lives.

Santé is a big player in the ever-changing health and wellness industry, especially for Filipinos, who are now putting more focus on their well-being. They're always striving to be the best, and this has set new standards and completely changed how Filipinos think about taking care of their health. Now, Santé is sharing their story of acceleration and innovation — from grass to glass.

Integrating high-quality processes into barley production. Santé's success starts with their commitment to high-quality ingredients. They get their barley from New Zealand's clean fields, where modern technology works alongside traditional farming methods. These fields, located in Canterbury, carry the perfect soil for growing barley.

All Santé's farms in New Zealand are manned by highly skilled farmers who use top-notch equipment to grow the barley. Even though New Zealand's climate naturally helps crops grow well, Santé's farmers carefully check on the barley using advanced tools. This ensures every plant reaches peak freshness before harvest. And because of their careful approach, Santé's barley has earned a special organic certification from BioGro. This means they don't use harmful chemicals and follow strict environmental guidelines.

According to Santé New Zealand Managing Director Peter Hope, Santé considers the fusion of high-tech processes with eco-conscious practices pivotal in its mission to achieve acceleration and innovation.

“By prioritizing cleanliness, environmental friendliness, and sustainability, Santé remains steadfast in its pursuit of elevating standards and reaching new heights in the industry,” said Hope.

Driving innovation and acceleration through business programs. More than just its products, Santé is renowned for offering business opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs. The company consistently pushes its boundaries through innovative programs tailored to adapt to the ever-evolving demands of the industry.

The Santé business program provides comprehensive education and training for individuals interested in starting their own business ventures. As a direct-selling company, Santé operates with a growth mindset, continuously striving to assist Filipinos in living better lives.

According to Santé CEO Joey Marcelo, innovation is the driving force behind Santé's relevance in the market, which is a philosophy that extends to their business owners. "This year, one of Santé's goals is to implement digital transformation across our processes and harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This initiative underscores our commitment to foster not only credibility but also paving the way for a brighter, transformative future in the health and wellness sector," Marcelo stated.

Presently, Santé actively engages with consumers through various platforms and strategies, with a primary focus on digital connectivity to reach a wider audience, particularly the younger demographic. This initiative is part of their global expansion strategy, as Santé has established its presence in 10 other countries, serving as a testament to their belief that transforming lives transcends geographical boundaries.

Extending health and wellness beyond the “glass”. While Santé Barley remains the company’s flagship product, Santé's commitment to wellness extends far beyond it. Santé offers a diverse range of health and wellness products and services tailored to meet the unique needs of its customers. From nutritional supplements and drinks enriched with barley such as Santé Barley Capsule, Santé Daily C, Fit N Trim, Fusion Coffee, Choco Barley, and Boost Coffee, to personal care products crafted with natural ingredients like Santé Natureal toothpaste and Moments sanitary napkins, Santé empowers individuals to live better lives.

Moreover, Santé has expanded its offerings beyond health and wellness products by establishing the Santé Leisure Club, Santé Fitness Lab, and they are now venturing into the food and beverage industry.

According to Santé Managing Director for the Philippines and Asia 1, Paul Caluag, Santé is continuously pursuing excellence, with acceleration and innovation at the core of their growth. “By offering holistic solutions that address the mind, body, and spirit, Santé goes beyond the traditional boundaries of wellness, inspiring a movement towards total well-being,” said Caluag.

Santé's journey serves as a testament to the power of innovation and acceleration in the health and wellness industry. Through its unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and consumer-centricity, Santé has not only redefined industry standards but also reshaped the way Filipinos approach health. Indeed, Santé continues to lead the way, proving that true acceleration and innovation know no bounds.

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

Santé Bags Innovative Health and Fitness Solutions Award at The Living Laurels 2024

Tweet

Santé, one of the fastest-growing distribution and direct-selling companies globally dedicated to helping people live better lives, wins the Innovative Health and Fitness Solutions at the inaugural The Living Laurels 2024 awards, an award-giving body organized by Malaya Business Insight.

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

The prestigious award reflects Sante’s commitment to revolutionizing health, 

wellness industry in PH

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

Santé HR Director Joyce Escorpiso (third from right) and Santé COO Mike Sibayan (fourth from right) receive the award during the ceremony.

The Living Laurels 2024 aims to honor individuals and companies that have risen above challenges to improve the quality of others' lives while advancing their industries. The category, which Santé won, recognizes health and fitness innovations, as well as industry leaders, who have adapted to customers' evolving requirements and preferences.

Santé COO Mike Sibayan, took center stage in accepting the prestigious award while highlighting Santé’s commitment to being the global provider of premium and high-quality health and wellness products and services.

“Since we started planting the seeds of barley in the highlands of New Zealand, to bringing the power of this product to the Filipino people, we have focused our attention on allowing every individual to live better lives through our products and our business offerings,” said Sibayan.

Established 17 years ago, Santé has consistently promoted health and wellness by providing high-quality products and business opportunities. Today, the company operates in 10 countries and has plans for further expansion in the future. Santé has also expanded its mission to continue businesses not just by direct selling but also through its expanded business line in retail. They opened Santé Leisure Club, Santé Fitness Lab, and are now venturing into the Food and Beverage industry.

“Our expansion embodies our steadfast mission to ignite transformative change and help Filipinos live better lives. This award stands as a testament to the relentless dedication, hard work, and innovative spirit that drive us forward,” said Santé CEO Joey Marcelo.

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

The CHERRY Air Purifiers as an essential layer of protection for your home

Tweet

Our indoor spaces can also harbor a surprising number of pollutants, including dust, pet dander, pollen, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). CHERRY Air purifiers act as silent sentinels, tirelessly working to eliminate these contaminants and create a healthier indoor environment.

· CHERRY Smart Air Purifier Ultra SAP 3000- It is equipped with a 4-Layer Medical Grade Filters and Plasma Ion Technology that captures microscopic particles, allergens, and pollutants, ensuring that the air you breathe is of the highest quality. Moreover, it has a 3-way control namely: manual, remote and app. Simply download the CHERRY IoT Solutions App to command your device even when you’re away. Get this for P19,999.

· CHERRY Smart Air Purifier Max SAP 1000- It has a primary filter that removes dust from the air, De-formaldehyde particulate matter which strains droplets, activated Carbon which filters out bacteria, and negative ion release which produces healthy anions responsible for preventing colds, flu, fever, and asthma. Bring home this air pollutants combat for P14,500.

· CHERRY Smart Air Purifier SAP 600 is well-equipped with an H13 HEPA Filter. It is strengthened with Washable Mesh Filter, Granular Activated Carbon Filter, and Built-In Ionizer. In addition, it efficiently keeps the air clean with a 350m³/h CADR and is capable of covering a 30 sqm room or area. Get yours for P7,000.

· CHERRY UVC Air Purifier AP-02- It has a six-stage air purification system and emits 80 million negative ions per centimeter cube. Moreover, this contains UVC light disinfection that has a 99.98% kill rate for viruses and covers up to 50 square meters of filtration. Clean the air you breathe at home and get this for P5,000.

· CHERRY Air Purifier AP-01- This device has an exceptional filtration capability with its 5-stage air purification. It captures particles, ensuring that even the tiniest pollutants are trapped and prevented from re-entering your breathing space. Enjoy a breath of fresh air, get yours for P3,500.

These CHERRY Air Purifiers are not just appliances; they're essential tools for creating a healthier and happier living environment. Breathe easy, breathe clean – embrace the refreshing change with CHERRY’s Health and Wellness Essentials.

For more information, visit:

CHERRY Shop PH: www.cherryshop.com.ph

Shopee: https://bit.ly/CherryPhShopee

Lazada: https://bit.ly/CherryPhLazada

________________________________________________________________________

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.

Herbalife Employees and Distributors Spend Over 3,200 Hours - Giving Back to Communities Across Asia Pacific During Global Month of Purpose

Tweet

(ASIA PACIFIC, July 20, 2023) – Premier health and wellness company Herbalife concluded today its Global Month of Purpose across Asia Pacific. Herbalife employees and distributors gave back to their communities by spending over 3,200 hours from April to June, volunteering in a host of activities benefiting people and the environment, in Australia, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

“The Global Month of Purpose initiative complements our robust program of serving communities in need, creating additional opportunities to enable our employees and distributors to volunteer for worthy causes,” said Stephen Conchie, Regional President for Asia Pacific and China at Herbalife. “Whether it is the gift of time by volunteering at local Casa Herbalife programs, supporting neighborhood food kitchens, or picking up trash from beaches, our employees and distributors are continuously making positive efforts to improve our communities and planet.” 

The volunteering activities conducted by Herbalife employees and distributors across the Asia Pacific region are aligned with the company’s Global Responsibility agenda, focused on making positive social and environmental impacts. To encourage volunteerism, Herbalife offers 16 hours of paid time off each year for its employees to perform community services.

During this year’s Global Month of Purpose, the majority of activities across Asia Pacific focused on helping underserved communities, such as preparing nutritious meals for and playing sports with children from underprivileged families who are being cared for through the Herbalife Casa Program, which is supported by Herbalife Nutrition Foundation. Other volunteer work included a visit to a school for mentally impaired children by Herbalife employees and distributors in Vietnam, who played games with and gave gifts to the children. Additionally, Herbalife volunteers in the Philippines donated their time to assist Rise Against Hunger in preparing hot meals for 2,500 people in need.

Beach clean-ups, soap recycling and tree planting were among the volunteering activities around positive environmental impacts. Notably, during a beach clean-up in Taiwan, Herbalife volunteers picked up garbage weighing 183kg in total. In Indonesia, Herbalife employees visited the collection branches of the company’s global responsibility partner, Plastic Bank, where they learned of the pressing need to stop ocean plastic, while also helping collect waste plastic.

The Global Month of Purpose initiative contributes to Herbalife’s goal of making 50 million positive impacts that nourish people and our planet by 2030, the company’s 50th anniversary.

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

About Herbalife Ltd.

Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) is a premier health and wellness company and community that has been changing people's lives with great nutrition products and a business opportunity for its independent distributors since 1980. The Company offers science-backed products to consumers in more than 90 markets through entrepreneurial distributors who provide one-on-one coaching and a supportive community that inspires their customers to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle in order to live their best life.

Living More, For All: Cultivating an Affordable Healthy Lifestyle in the Family

Tweet

Here’s how you can guide your family to become health champions of tomorrow while on a budget

The new generation of Filipino families is becoming more practical, especially with the rising cost of living. Nowadays, they find it much better to make everything cost-effective, including their meals. While this is a more sustainable and innovative choice, some families sacrifice their overall nutrition to keep things on a budget.

That is why, in keeping with this year's celebration of Nutrition Month, with the theme "Healthy diet gawing affordable for all!" the National Nutrition Council (NNC) wants to spread the message that every Filipino family should have greater access to healthy, safe, and affordable food. The theme also emphasizes making food commodities more stable and sufficient for every household.

A healthy lifestyle should not drain the family's bank account. That is why Santé, a premier natural health and wellness product and service provider, supports this year's Nutrition Month campaign by sharing a helpful guide on how you and your family can cultivate a healthy lifestyle on a budget.

Prepare home-cooked meals with affordable but nutritious ingredients. While home-cooked meals are typical in Filipino households, you may sacrifice the meal you prepare because of the need for more time and resources. You may cook fried, processed food (e.g., hotdogs, longganisa, tocino, noodles, etc.) and canned goods. But there will always be more accessible, affordable, and healthier meals that you can prepare. You can start by exploring healthy dishes with cheap ingredients like ginisang ampalaya, stir-fried tofu with eggplant, tinolang isda, monggo with malunggay, and more.

Shop smarter and healthier. The local wet and dry market will be your best friend if you want your family to keep things on a budget. You can buy everything in bulk and get enough fresh produce to sustain your family for at least two weeks. Stop buying frozen goods and opt for whole foods such as grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, which are usually affordable and nutritious.

Regarding grocery shopping, look for promos and discounts and buy generic brands to stretch your budget further. Consider buying in bulk for non-perishable items like grains, nuts, and seeds.

Invest in and explore health and wellness resources. Nutrition doesn't always come from food; it also comes from the vitamins and nutrients you and your family can take. Always make sure that you set aside a budget to sustain your family's daily vitamins. And don’t forget to go for generics.

You can also substitute other daily drinks with healthier ones. For instance, Santé offers a variety of healthy drinks, such as Santé Fusion Coffee, which can boost your family's energy while providing fiber and protein. There's also Santé Choco Barley for the kids to enjoy because it's a sweet treat packed with vitamins such as A and C. And for dads, Santé Boost Coffee can improve their physical performance and is full of antioxidants because it contains Tongkat Ali.

All of these consist of Santé Barley Grass, certified organic by BioGro. That is why you'll never doubt the nutrients and vitamins these products can give to your family.

Exercise as a family. Exercise doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. Look for free activities such as walking, biking, hiking, or playing in local parks. Explore workout videos or apps that offer home-based exercises without requiring expensive gym memberships or equipment. And allow your kids to play outside after school or after finishing their homework.

Remember, health and wellness should start within the family. It should be a collective effort to make everyone live healthier lives, but that does not mean it should be expensive and burdensome.

"We believe that the journey towards a healthy lifestyle is continuous. When families start nurturing a culture of wellness, they are investing in the present and laying the foundation for a future filled with vitality and joy," said Joey Marcelo, chief executive officer of Santé.

Santé is one of the leading global manufacturers of products with organic barley grass (certified organic by BioGro) grown and harvested in New Zealand. With its mission to help people live better lives, the company promotes, produces, and distributes premier natural health and wellness products and services. Santé reminds everyone only to buy Santé products from legitimate business owners and resellers and to report counterfeits.

To learn more about Santé Fusion Coffee, Santé Choco Barley, Santé Boost Coffee, and other Santé products, visit its website at mySanté.com.

AXA Mind Health Study cites ‘the Great Resignation may not be over’ in the PH

Tweet

A recent study conducted by leading insurance provider AXA Philippines showed that Filipinos who are struggling at work are almost twice as likely to resign within a year compared to the rest of the world. This accounts for 32% of Filipinos surveyed, versus the global average of 17%, suggesting that the “Great Resignation” is still a continuing trend as professionals continue to re-evaluate their career choices.

The AXA Mind Health study also revealed that job stress (39%), better job and higher pay (39%), the need for work-life balance (32%), and a toxic work culture (31%) are among the top reasons cited by Filipino workers for intending to leave their current jobs.

Going through the ‘Great Resignation’

The study, which highlighted the importance of addressing mind health concerns in the workplace to improve employees’ retention and overall job satisfaction, revealed that the Philippines has the highest resignation rate globally at 18%. Numbers also showed that the intent to resign may not translate to actual resignations with only 14% of Filipino workers actually resigning in the next 12 months. This percentage is lower than the global average across all age groups. Despite the bullish numbers, it is still too early to tell if the “Great Resignation” is over in the Philippines.

The research found that most resignations come from the 18-24 age range, with the younger workforce most likely planning their exit from their jobs eventually. In the Philippines, the intention to resign among young Filipinos is higher, with a 28% resignation rate versus 24% globally. Majority (64%) of Filipino workers who resigned from a job in the last year found it was positive for their mental wellbeing. This number implies that employees usually feel happier when they leave a stressful or toxic environment and move on to something that suits them better.

Youth and workplace productivity

The survey revealed that young workers in the Philippines, particularly those aged 18-24, are least likely to be productive compared to their 24 to 35-year-old colleagues. This is linked to their unmanaged work demands and the difficulty in keeping up with the pace of change at work. In addition, younger workers may not have the same level of people skills as older age groups, which could be beneficial in dealing with stress. It's also worth noting that they might not have yet developed the necessary aptitude for adversity this early in their careers.

Promoting good mind health in the workplace

Employers have an important role to play in promoting the health and happiness of their employees. The research reveals that a supportive workplace has a great impact on employee retention, well-being and productivity. To help employers better understand the workforce’s current state, the study presented six key factors that promote well-being in the workplace: hybrid work, mental health support by employers, strong skill/job matching, control over workload, support for skill development, and clear goals and expectations.

To further establish the connection between mind health and productivity in the workplace, respondents were classified into four mind-health states based on their responses: “flourishing” at the top to “getting by,” “languishing” and “struggling.” Flourishing refers to the pinnacle of good mind health, getting by describes those who may have some areas of good wellbeing but not enough to reach the state of flourishing, languishing represents the absence of positive wellbeing and struggling is associated with emotional stress and psychosocial impairment.

Those who are flourishing are more productive at work and are less likely to leave their jobs. The study further explained that Filipinos are two times more productive if their skills matched the work they were being asked to do. They are also five times more likely to flourish and four times more productive if they had at least some decision-making power over how they did their jobs.

"Over the past years, we have seen Filipinos, most especially the younger generation, leaving their jobs abruptly to prioritize their well-being. It is important that we explore the reason behind this great resignation and why Filipinos are struggling at work,” said AXA Philippines Chief Marketing Officer Nandy Villar. “The findings from our latest Mind Health Study reinforce the value of prioritizing mind health in the workplace like we do at AXA, and the need for employers to take a proactive role in addressing these concerns among their employees."

New understanding brings new hope. By taking into consideration the factors that affect good mental health in the workplace, AXA Philippines believes that this will benefit both employers and employees. Through the findings of the recent Mind Health study, it aims to encourage employers to be more attuned to their employees’ well-being.

Access the AXA Study of Mind Health and Wellbeing 2023 at https://www.axa.com/en/about-us/mind-health-report.

8 Health Essentials That You Need To Have This Summer

Tweet

Summer is in full swing, which means it’s time to make plans with loved ones to enjoy the great outdoors. A day spent outside the home is fun, but the intense heat can affect anyone’s health.

Image by tirachardz on Freepik

Watsons encourages families to stock up on health essentials that can help combat the harmful effects of sun exposure and high temperatures. With over 60 million people affected by El Niño[1], there is a high chance of disease outbreaks. This also causes heat stress and respiratory diseases, among a wide range of health problems.[2]

Since prevention is better than cure, here are the must-haves that the leading health and beauty retailer recommends:

Sunscreen

Sunscreen protects the skin and helps prevent sunburn and premature aging, and more alarming conditions like skin cancer.

When looking for sunscreen, it’s important to choose broad spectrum products that protect the skin from both the Ultraviolet A (UVA) and B (UVB) rays of the sun. Another consideration is the sun protection factor or SPF. This is a number that tells you how long the sun’s UVB rays will turn the skin red after applying sunscreen. Minimal exposure to the sun needs an SPF of 15 or higher, while longer time spent outdoors needs at least 30. It is recommended to use sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outdoors and to reapply every two hours.[3]

Facial mist

Complement sunscreen with a generous spritz of facial mist. This product serves a dual purpose: it hydrates the skin and helps it absorb other products like serums and moisturizers. Facial mists have other benefits depending on the ingredients. Some have essential oils for aromatherapy, while others have antioxidants.[4]

Vitamin C serum

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals that damage the cells. It also controls infections and heals wounds.[5] The vitamin plays an important role this summer: when used as a serum, it can hydrate and brighten the skin, protect against sun damage, and promote collagen production to prevent fine lines and wrinkles.[6]

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is another antioxidant that reduces damage caused by free radicals. It’s also an essential vitamin during the summer because it cares for the skin and hair. Vitamin E creates a protective barrier on the skin’s surface to lock in moisture. Additionally, it supports the scalp and adds shine to hair.[7]

Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that helps make the heart, bones, muscles, and nerves operate at their best.[8] It even regulates body temperature. Thankfully, the mineral is available as a supplement that can be easily bought at health stores.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that helps the immune system. It aids in wound healing, blood clotting, and the optimal functioning of the thyroid. A shortage of zinc may lead to pneumonia, skin changes,[9] and even hair loss.[10] The heat can damage hair so a zinc supplement may help address that.[11]

Collagen

Collagen is a type of protein that helps cells grow, provides a protective layer for organs, and gives elasticity to the skin.[12] It’s also available as oral and topical products that help with signs of aging such as wrinkles and dehydration. These can be caused by the summer heat so it’s advisable to take collagen this summer.

Glutathione

Glutathione is an antioxidant that fights off oxidative stress, which may lead to diseases like diabetes and cancer.[13] Its oral and topical supplements may help lighten dark spots and free radical damage to the skin caused by the sun.[14]

All these health essentials are available at Watsons. The global brand in health and beauty retail offers a complete and wide range of vitamins, supplements, over-the-counter or prescription medicines, personal care products, and other essentials in its network of 1,000+ stores in the Philippines.

Watsons makes the shopping experience more convenient with its added services. Customers can choose Click & Collect Express, where they can purchase online and pick up their orders from their selected store in 30 minutes or less. They may also try the Home Delivery Express, which delivers orders right to their doorstep within three hours.

“Filipinos are making the most out of the summer by spending more time outdoors or traveling. The right health products can help them ease their worries so they can focus on celebrating and enjoying the season. Let Watsons remove the burden of shopping by visiting our wide network of stores and availing of Click & Collect Express and Home Delivery Express,” says Jared De Guzman, Watsons Customer Director.

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

About Watsons

Watsons is part of the Health and Beauty Store chain of A.S Watson, the largest health, beauty, cosmetics, and perfumery retailer in the world. Today, Watsons H&B Asia is the leading health and beauty chain in the continent with successful operations in 13 markets. In 2002, A.S. Watson Group joined hands with SM Prime Holdings Inc., the Philippines' leading shopping mall developer. The partnership brought about the first Watsons stores in SM Megamall and The Podium (Ortigas).

Today, Watsons operates 1000+ stores in the Philippines serving more than 250,000 customers per day. Watsons strives to ensure that its customers get the best value for their money through monthly promotions, special offers, and continuous consumer marketing programs. Each Watsons store houses nothing but the best brands from top manufacturers all over the world and also carries its own competitively priced, high-quality private labels and brands. With more than 1,000 brands ranging from medicines, cosmetics, and fragrances to personal care items and general merchandise, Watsons Your Personal Store delivers only the best health, wellness, and beauty solutions to each and every customer.

---

^[1] El Niño Affects More Than 60 Million People. (2016, April). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/el-ni%C3%B1o-affects-more-than-60-million-people. Accessed 11 May 2023.

^[2] El Niño Affects More Than 60 Million People. (2016, April). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/el-ni%C3%B1o-affects-more-than-60-million-people. Accessed 11 May 2023.

^[3] All About Sunscreen. (Last updated 2022, Jul). Skin Cancer Foundation. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/. Accessed 3 May 2023.

^[4] The 16 Best Facial Mists for Every Skin Type. (Last updated 2022, Sep 26). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/best-facial-mist. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[5] Vitamin C. (Last reviewed 2023, Mar). Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-c/. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[6]  11 Reasons to Add Vitamin C Serum to Your Skin Care Routine. (Last updated 2023, Feb 3). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/vitamin-c-serum-benefits. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[7] How Vitamin E Can Benefit Your Hair. (Updated 2019, Mar 8). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/vitamin-e-for-hair. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[8] ​​Magnesium. (Last reviewed 2023, Mar). Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/magnesium/. Accessed 3 May 2023.

^[9]  Zinc and your health. (Last reviewed 2021, Mar). Healthdirect Australia. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/zinc. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[10]  The 8 Best Supplements for Hair Growth, According to a Dietitian. (Last reviewed 2023, Feb 23). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-vitamins-hair-growth. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[11] The 8 Best Supplements for Hair Growth, According to a Dietitian. (Last reviewed 2023, Feb 23). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-vitamins-hair-growth. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[12]  Collagen. (Last reviewed 2022, May 23). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen. Accessed 5 May 2023.

^[13]  Glutathione Benefits. (Updated 2023, Apr 18). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/glutathione-benefits. Accessed 5 May 2023.

^[14] Benefits and Side Effects of Glutathione in Skincare. (2023, Apr 4). Healthnews. https://healthnews.com/beauty/skin-care/glutathione-for-skincare/. Accessed 5 May 2023.