GSK launches Free in My Skin Movement to empower every Filipina to fully participate in life with Physiogel®

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Physiogel^®, the number-one most prescribed moisturizer by dermatologists, empowers every Filipina to fully participate in life with the launch of the Free In My Skin Movement.

The Free In My Skin Movement empowers every Filipina to be free from dry, sensitive skin and to confidently embrace life and achieve their dreams and aspirations. 

Yesterday, September 9, held at the Makati Shangrila Hotel, GlaxoSmithKline, makers of Physiogel®, launches the Free In My Skin Movement with TV host and entrepreneur Patti Grandidge as she leads the movement.

To be free is the right of every modern woman. The freedom to make her own decisions and pursue her dreams and passion.

But that freedom should begin from within, from loving oneself and liberating it from insecurities. Being free is being comfortable in one’s own skin. Unfortunately dry, sensitive skin may cause emotional struggles and self-doubt, making them miss out on life’s many opportunities each day.

Empowering Women

The Free In My Skin Movement embodied by model, TV host and entrepreneur Patti Grandidge, seeks to bring together and honor women who overcame their insecurities and became the best version of themselves.

Patti, one of the country’s freshest and most beautiful faces, admitted that she used to be like one of every two Filipinas who suffered from dry and sensitive skin.

“We used to travel a lot when I was younger and getting exposed to different climates took a toll on my skin, making it sensitive, itchy, red and dry. This made me quite insecure, and in the business I am in, it is always about first impressions,” she said.

Patti knew that if she wanted to be in control of her life and achieve her goals, she had to overcome her insecurities, starting with her skin.

“Unlike ordinary moisturizers I used before, Physiogel^® made my skin less sensitive and dry. My skin became so much softer, smoother and definitely healthier.”

Patti said she understands how insecurities can be restraining and wants every Filipina to be free from dry, sensitive skin and to confidently reveal their true selves. Just like she did.

“It’s amazing how one simple change in my skincare has renewed my confidence,” she enthused. “One of the best feelings is when you feel confident, and have control of your life, like I can do anything! And with Physiogel^®, I am Free In My skin to do just about anything.”

With Physiogel^®, Patti was able to free herself from skin worries such as dryness and irritation, so she can fulfill the demands of her multi-hyphenated career of being a TV host, model, entrepreneur and loving wife all with equal zest and success.

“With Physiogel, I became free from dry and sensitive skin – to get going, to get out there and just be who I really am. So, now I truly believe in the power of having good skin. It gave me the power to feel empowered, to feel free. I became free in my skin. And this is why I have been rallying for this movement to reach out to so many women out there,” declares the Free in My Skin embodiment.

Free in My Skin Movement

The Free in My Skin Movement aims to empower women to fully embrace and participate in life by freeing them from dry and sensitive skin, because having dry and sensitive skin can serve as a hindrance for women to fully function to their best abilities. This movement also aims to honor smart, strong, sensitive women who have faced their insecurities (physically and emotionally) and are now embracing and living life to the fullest.

General Manager of GSK Consumer Healthcare, Mr. Jeoffrey Yulo

“The Free in My Skin movement is not just about creating a nurturing community of smart, strong and sensitive women, but is also as a way of honoring these women who didn’t let their dry-skin insecurities prevent them from being the best versions of themselves,” says General Manager of GSK Consumer Healthcare, Mr. Jeoffrey Yulo.

As Patti Grandidge says, “As the embodiment of this movement, I am encouraging women to join me in honoring the smart, strong and sensitive women our lives who have all been a source of inspiration. Think of three smart, strong & sensitive women you know and you are proud of and tag them on your Facebook post as how you can see mine on screen:

I honor these women who have inspired me to be #FreeInMySkin: @kpams808 @macheremachere @bebettes. Cheers to these three smart, strong & sensitive women in my life! Who are yours? #NowPayItForward #PhysiogelPH

Now all my three honorees have to do is to pay it forward by honoring three women in their lives and so forth. We want every woman in our lives to be part of this movement. And I really think this is one of the many things we can do to reach out to more women who already are and who want to be free in their skin.”

Dra. Bernadette Arcilla explains the science behind Physiogel's unique Biomimic Technology.

Locking Moisture In

Physiogel^® is the only skincare product that has the patented advanced Physiogel BioMimic Technology^® that works naturally with your skin to make it less sensitive and dry. Like a jigsaw puzzle, your skin's natural lipid layers form a matrix, helping to lock the moisture within. This allows Physiogel^® to repair dehydrated skin, rehydrate the essential barriers and also revitalize the skin―keeping it healthy from within. Physiogel^® is free from perfumes, preservatives or colorants.

For skin that is less sensitive and dry, experience the difference with Physiogel^®, the most recommended moisturizer brand by dermatologists in the Philippines.

For more information, visit www.physiogel.ph/ or www.facebook.com/PhysiogelPH

About Physiogel^®

Physiogel is the No.1 prescribed moisturizer by dermatologists.* Physiogel is a skin moisturizing brand that falls under the Dermo-Cosmetic Category of the Skin Care Market. It comes in cleanser, cream & lotion formats for dry, sensitive skin. Its cleanser is a mild, soap-free and hypo-allergenic cleanser.

About GSK

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), one of the world’s leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies – is committed to improving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer.  For further information please visit www.gsk.com.

*According to the Philippine Medical Data Index (PMDI MAT 2013)

AMAIA grants PBB Big Winner Daniel Matsunaga a New Home!

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Pinoy Big Brother All-In, Daniel Matsunaga was voted as this season’s Big Winner. 

Last August 24, the most talked about reality show has come to its end, as the last set of housemates known as the Big 4, faced the public for one last time. Pinoy Big Brother All-In’s loyal audience and avid fans showed their support through text polls, saving the most deserving housemate. 

Daniel Matsunaga with Anna Garcia Ramos

After more than a 100 days of staying inside the Big Brother House, the Big 4 stood the best among the original 19 housemates comprised of celebrity, teenagers, and regular individuals, a first in the Big Brother franchise history; the Big 4 are: Vickie Rushton (4th Big Placer), Jane Oineza (3rd Big Placer), Maris Racal (2nd Big Placer), and Daniel Matsunaga (PBB All-In Big Winner).

A Brazilian-Japanese model, Daniel Matsunaga has successfully achieved every task inside the Pinoy Big Brother House, winning not just his fellow housemates’ trust but the hearts of many Filipinos. 

Matsunaga was awarded 1 million pesos, business franchises, and a brand new condominium unit at Amaia Steps Novaliches, a modern and contemporary-inspired mid-rise project by Amaia, Ayala Land’s economic housing arm. With convenience and accessibility as its major advantages, and taking pride of its quality features and amenities such as a swimming pool, basketball court, clubhouse, playground, landscaped gardens, and support retail, perfectly tailored for a Big Winner like Daniel Matsunaga.

Backed by Makati Development Corporation BuildPlus (MDC) and maintained by Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC), Amaia Land is every hardworking Filipino’s dependable partner in building a bright and strong future.

Just like Daniel, who believed in his dreams and determined to make it all come true, AMAIA upholds its commitment in providing affordable homes to every Filipino and makes dreaming of a brand new home a reality; because with AMAIA, every Filipino can claim, “Kaya Ko Na!”

For inquiries, visit www.amaialand.com or like www.facebook/AmaiaLand

* Amaia, Home of Pinoy Big Brother all-In

Department of Tourism declared 2015 will be "Visit the Philippines" year

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Department of Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr.

The Department of Tourism has launched a campaign dubbbed as "Visit the Philippines Year (VPY) 2015" an invitation for all to experience the enduring promise of “It’s More Fun in the Philippines.” 

The Philippines is all set to become the ultimate destination next year. Encouraging nationwide participation, DOT hopes to inspire 10 million foreign tourists to discover, explore and fall in love with the Philippines.

Visitors to the country will not run out of reasons to visit the Philippines as 2015 proves to be an exciting year for the country.

Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operation Officer Domingo Ramon C. Enero III

During the event, Domingo Ramon C. Enero III, Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operation Officer announced the VPY 2015 features on an exciting mix of events and activities, as well as the unveiling of more historic treasures, natural wonders, and unforgettable adventures; from the Papal Visit in January to the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit.

And of course, its people’s hospitality and optimism make the Philippines the best place to be on the planet next year.

Arts and Culture

The Sinulog, Dinagyang and Ati-atihan are just some of the many colorful and festive events that celebrate and showcase the beautiful people and culture of the Philippines. These world-famous festivals open the door for visitors to discover its rich heritage of centuries-old baroque churches, historical museums and local arts and Filipino craftsmanship.

Lifestyle and Entertainment

The Philippines has a lot to offer in terms of lifestyle and entertainment. Shopping destinations and nightlife are the selling points for Manila. Some international performers will also hold concerts in the country next year, including the pop sensation One Direction.

There are also unique international events held in the country like the Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta and the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition. Never amiss in what’s in, the country comes on top in providing recreation and entertainment hard to match.

Travel and Adventure

The Philippines is rich in natural wonders and biodiversity that tourists wanting to commune with nature will love. It is famous for its hiking, diving and adventure hubs like Siargao Island, a favorite surfing site, Boracay, known for its white beach sand, Bohol for cruise tourism, and Cebu for its breathtaking diving sites.

World Heritage Sites—the Banaue Rice Terraces, Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife and Sanctuary, the Palawan Underground River which is also one of the world’s New7Wonders of Nature, continue to inspire awe even among jaded travelers.

Year-round Sporting Events

The country, known for its people’s competitive spirit, plays host to international sporting events, some of which have made the Philippines a part of their circuit are Iron Man and Xterra Triathlons, and CWC International Wakeboarding Competition. Local sporting events like the International Dragon Boat Race in Boracay and the myriad of marathons and triathlons, including fun races like color blasts and zombie runs have attracted international attention and participation.

Business

The Philippines also boasts of modern facilities for conventions and business conferences. Next year, the country will host the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit. Guests will include 21 heads of state and 46 ministers, with about 10,000 economic leaders, support staff and international journalists. 

VPY 2015 also comes at the time DOT makes progress on measures to realize the planned regional economic integration of Association of Southeast Asian Nations, which includes the readiness of the Bureau of Immigration to honor the common visas extended by all member countries to those traveling to the Philippines. Doing business in the country is reinforced by its back-to-back investment upgrades and high economic growth performance.

It’s More Fun in the Philippines website

To drum up more interest for VPY 2015, the DOT has given its website a makeover, redirecting its home page to the revitalized “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” website (www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com) with more features to assist potential tourists, travel agencies andAA event organizers.

The website aims to be the one-stop portal for all queries about traveling to the Philippines, its must-visit destinations and events in 2015.

In support, the DOT has developed a microsite inside the “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” website to serve as directory to everything the Philippines has to offer. 

All stakeholders, from event organizers to tour agencies, are encouraged to go to www.phl2015.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com and register and promote their activities to an international audience.

“What will truly sustain Visit the Philippines Year 2015 campaign are the people themselves. I enjoin the businesses, communities and locals, to play an active part in spreading and amplifying our messages, enticing would-be visitors to come visit our shores,” said Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr.

(From L-R) Tourism Assistant Secretary Benito C. Bengzon Jr., Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. and Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operation Officer Domingo Ramon C. Enero III during the "Visit the Philippines 2015" launch in the same ocassion of the 13th Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX2014), held at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City last Thursday, September 5, 2014.

Thanks to the unprecedented support from the national government, local governments and the private sector, tourism remains as one of the pillars of growth and inclusiveness. With VPY 2015, DOT aims to have every quarter one major occasion that would attract not only domestic but also international tourists to visit the country.

Indeed, Visit the Philippines Year 2015 is a great opportunity to finally share with the world the unique experiences and adventures this country can offer.

Here are some photos during the "Visit the Philippines Year 2015" campaign launch.

PHITEX 2014 was launched, emphasizes "travel with a purpose"

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The 13th Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX), organized by the Department of Tourism and Promotions Board was formally launched at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City last Thursday, September 5, 2014 attended by tourism attachés, VIP’s, 198 foreign buyers and 200 local sellers.

“PHITEX strengthens our tourism industry by nurturing relationships between our very own players and the range of businesses found throughout the world,” TPB Chief Operating Officer Domingo Ramon Enerio said.

The Tourism Promotion Board (TPB), the marketing arm of the Department of Tourism, plans to push the 'It's More Fun in the Philippines' campaign even further as part of its five-point communication strategy for the coming year. Enerio described 'It's More Fun' as "a very strategic part" of their campaign to boost tourism in the country.

The Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) provides a venue for sellers of Philippine tourism products to engage top international buyers in business negotiations. 

It also continues to be the Department of Tourism’s and the Tourism Promotions Board’s aggressive effort to boost the country’s position in the global market as a top tourist destination. 

In support of these objectives this year, PHITEX buyers will not only have pre and post event tours to key Philippine Destinations but even more so, implement tour programs with socio-ecological thrusts. 

Enerio encouraged the participants to take advantage of the opportunity to build lasting relationships among each other for the continued attainment of Philippine travel and tourism. The Philippine tourism sector is poised to ride even bigger waves next year as the Asean integration is set to roll out.

This year’s theme, “Innovate and Integrate, Empower and Engage” highlights not only the distinctively fun nature of the archipelago and the Filipino people, but also leverages on sustainable travel through the incorporation of responsible social tourism activities in post-confab tours.

(L-R) From First Distric of Bohol Cong. Rene Lopez Relampagos, Tourism Assistant Secretary Benito C. Bengzon Jr. and Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operationg Officer Domingo Ramon C. Enero III

As it emphasizes "travel with a purpose" PHITEX 2014 reinforces DOT’s targeted 6.8 million foreign visitors in 2014 by expanding their existing transactions in the country, enticing foreign buyers during one-on-one scheduled appointments in the Philippine Travel Exchange.

“Unlike in the past where the post-event tours were primarily for leisure, the 2014 tours are designed with activities that promote sustainability and preservation of environment,” said Tess H. Mauricio, TPB OIC for Marketing and Promotions and PHITEX project director. 

Local tour groups with a purpose

There will be nine tour groups, which include trips to – Manila, Makati and BGC, GK Enchanted Farm (Bulacan), Laoag and Vigan, Tagaytay and Puerta Galera, Puerta Princesa, El Nido, Legazpi and Sorsogon, Boracay, and Cebu and Bohol.

First Distric of Bohol Cong. Rene Lopez Relampagos and Tourism Assistant Secretary Benito C. Bengzon Jr.

The Manila, Makati and BGC tour explores the modern global city and the Makati Central Business District. Guests will also be taken back in time by visiting Fort Santiago, Casa Manila, San Agustin Church and museum in the Walled City of Intramuros.

GK Enchanted Farm in Bulacan is the highlight of the second tour group. This is Gawad Kalinga’s platform in promoting social entrepreneurs, helping local farmers and creating alternative employment in the countryside. Guests will survey the various facilities of the farm’s campus, while supporting the different income-generating activities of the area. 

Northern Luzon will take on the spotlight with a cultural and historical tour of Laoag and Vigan. Guests will explore Ilocos Norte and stay at Sitio Remedios, a heritage village resort situated in an 18,000 square meter of land re-creating an Ilocano neighborhood typical of the mid-fifties. The group will also visit Ilocos Sur and will be accommodated in Hotel Luna, located at the heart of the Heritage Village in Vigan City, listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Aside from the walking and calesa tour of Vigan, participants will also be treated to a gastronomic culinary journey, after which a tree-planting activity awaits participants at Paoay Lake. For the adventure-seekers, the La Paz Sand Dunes is an added delight. 

The Tagaytay and Puerto Galera tour group will relax in the oasis of Hamilo Coast in Nasugbu, Batangas, then experience the cold breeze of Tagaytay with a breathtaking aerial view of Taal Volcano. Tai-chi, yoga and the traditional “hilot” massage will also pamper guests at the Nurture Spa Village. One of the highlights of the tour is visiting the Silonay Mangrove Conservation and Eco-tourism Park where guests can explore and understand the vital role of mangrove forests in our country. A visit of the Tamaraw Falls and the Municipal Hall of Puerto Galera follows. 

The clean and green city of Puerto Princesa in Palawan is the destination of the fifth group where they will be welcomed at Hotel Centro, with firefly watching in the evening. Guests will also be amazed with the world-renowned Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature in 2012. Mangrove paddling is another experience for the group as part of the community-based social tourism effort. 

The El Nido tour presents another priceless gem from Palawan. Nestled between a lush four-hectare forest and a calm, shallow lagoon, Lagen Island in El Nido is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing holiday in a private and tranquil island. The surrounding forest and the breathtaking limestone cliffs are natural attractions that serve as sanctuary for a diverse variety of birds and mammals. Here, guests can observe and delight in wildlife flourishing in their natural habitat. Participants will also be treated to a sunset cruise, kayaking and island hopping. 

The seventh group exhibits the unique offerings of Legazpi and Sorsogon. Accommodation for the delegates is Misibis Bay Resort where they get to choose to ride ATV’s, mountain bikes, dune buggies, segways or a heart-pounding zipline. In Legazpi, the incredible Mayon Skyline and Daraga Church will welcome guests while in Pilar, Sorsogon, they can snorkel at Bantigui Pt. Marine Sanctuary, or engage in harvesting sea grapes and gathering sea urchins in Panalatuan Cove. Swimming at the Panumbagan Sand Bar is also an option.

The white powdery sand and clear blue waters of Asia’s 24/7 island of Boracay mark the eight tour group as delegates will be welcomed at the luxurious Shangri-La Boracay Resort & Spa. Island hopping and other water sports activities will make it a busy morning for them but the Boracay Foundation coral transplantation efforts, which continuously give shelter and protection to a diverse range of underwater species is a more purposeful activity.

Delegates will appreciate Cebu and Bohol all the more in the ninth leg of tour groups as they explore the historic and natural beauty of Bohol’s countryside. Guests will have an exciting and diverse experience touring the Blood Compact Shrine, Baclayon Church, Chocolate Hills, Loboc River cruise and the Tarsier Sanctuary. Afterwards, Habitat for Humanity will host a social tourism activity geared towards providing shelter to the needy. A short ferry ride brings delegates to Cebu, the Queen City of the South where they will enjoy staying at the Shangri-La Mactan and a heritage tour of the celebrated city follows. 

“We are ecstatic to introduce these new itineraries that uplift Philippine tourism efforts with the incorporation of a holistic outlook. The suitable balance between our environment, the economy and our people’s culture are encouraged in PHITEX pre and post-tours to guarantee long-term sustainability of our industry and ultimately, the nation’s growth,” adds Mauricio. 

PHITEX 2014 is supported by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), Philippine Travel Agencies (PTAA), Hotels Sales and Marketing Association (HSMA) and Board of Airlines Representative (BAR) with Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Resorts World Manila. 

PHITEX post tours start September 5, 2014.

For more information visit www.phitex.ph

Lawmaker seeks to generate more ‘green jobs’ in the Philippines

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From Davao City, Congressman Karlo Nograles seeks to generate more ‘green jobs’ in new bill, which will be known as the Philippine Green Jobs Act of 2014.

As a complement to the Climate Change Act, Congressman Karlo Nograles of Davao City has filed a new bill that aims to create and establish more environment-friendly industries and services to reduce the adverse effects of climate change in the country.

Congressman Karlo Nograles of Davao City

Philippine Green Jobs Act of 2014, is poised to create employment opportunities that will be less harmful to the environment by using green technology, or innovations that conserve natural resources.

“With the adverse effects of climate change being felt around the world and its increasing threat to lives and properties, nations have found it imperative to facilitate and guide the process of making industries less harmful to the environment,” Nograles said.

Promoting climate-smart industries and services is a part of the National Climate Change Action Plan, as mandated by the Climate Change Act.

Green jobs are employment opportunities that produce goods and services that benefit and preserve the environment. These particularly involve business enterprises that use fewer natural resources in their production processes.

Sharing the vision of the Climate Change Act, Nogralesalso recognizes the integral role of labor in minimizing the impact of disasters brought by climate change, and maximizing the potential benefits of climate change as well.

More than highlighting labor as an essential economic force needed in sustainable development, the Nograles bill seeks to promote the right of individuals to a safe and clean ecology. To carry this out, Nograles said the government shall identify needed skills and develop programs for research and the training of workers.

“The bill requires the government to strengthen the capacity of workers and businesses to prevent, manage, mitigate and adapt to, the adverse impact of climate change and disasters and continue to create, sustain or expand opportunities for employment, by improving ourbusiness climate and working conditions,” he said.

To recognize efforts, fiscal incentives will be granted to individuals and enterprises who participate in the creation of green jobs, use green technologies, and produce green goods and services. This is also to encourage others to engage in the same practices.

The bill entitles participants to special deductions from gross income amounting to 200 percent of the total grants over and above the allowable ordinary and necessary business deductions under the National Internal Revenue Code. Incentives shall be administered by the Department of Finance.

The Climate Change Commission is tasked to formulate standards for the certification of green technologies, good and services that will be used in the granting of the said incentives.

As a long-term goal, Nograles also seeks to utilize the bill as a stepping stone towards a green economy—one that is “low-carbon” and “resource-efficient,” contributes to the well-being of constituents, and reduces environmental risks.

“As countries all over the world collectively move toward a more sustainable economy, public policy must center on developing a green jobs agenda, enhancing workers skills, and ensuring a just transition to a green economy,” Nograles said.

As the overall in charge of generating green jobs, the Department of Labor and Employment is tasked under the bill to create a national green jobs human resource development plan, which will sustain the transition into a green economy.

“It shall include programs, projects, and activities pertaining to basic, higher and technical vocational education and training, a database that identifies and links green job opportunities with private and public entities, and information on knowledge and skill requirements of a green economy,” Nograles said.

The bill also seeks to delegate the Secretary of Labor and Employment as an additional member of the Climate Change Commission, as well as mandates the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education to design and implement the appropriate curriculum in support of the green economy.