June is “No Smoking Month”, Doctors urge medical intervention and support in curbing smoking

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Cigarette smoking is a major public health problem globally. According to the WHO, smoking is the second most important cause of death worldwide and is currently responsible for 5 million death each year. There are three billion cigarette smokers worldwide of which 112 million are in India. Cigarette smoking is estimated to cause 800,000 deaths annually in India. The WHO predicts that tobacco deaths in India may exceed 1.5 million annually by 2020.

Filipino health professionals and medical organizations, along with the private healthcare sector, are underscoring the importance of medical intervention and support in the form of more prevalent and accessible smoking cessation clinics, in order to successfully help more smokers kick the deadly habit.

The call is made to kick off the commemoration of the Philippines “No Smoking Month” in June. 

At a press conference held at the Lung Center of the Philippines (LCP), doctor groups highlighted the vital role that smoking cessation clinics play in creating strong community support for patients who wish to quit.

Smoking is an addiction that takes more than just simple willpower to successfully abandon, according to Dr. Anthony Leachon, immediate past president of the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP).

Dr. Leachon explains:

  “Ineptitude is the inability to do what is right despite knowledge and education. We are all aware that despite knowing that smoking is bad, and that it has adverse health effects, a lot of our countrymen still continue to smoke, or are unable to quit.”

According to data from the 2013 National Nutrition and Health Survey (NNHeS), smoking prevalence among the current smokers has dropped to 25.4 percent of the population from 31 percent in 2008. 

With the achievements of the government in the implementation of 100% smoke-free environments and the sin tax law to discourage tobacco consumers, “we have proven that all educational drives would be best complemented by an aspect of shaping the smokers’ environment,” explains Dr. Leachon.

This is where smoking cessation clinics come into the picture. Such facilities are especially designed and designated to receive patients who wish to finally quit smoking. 

Dedicated health professionals manning the clinic guide patients step by step, from initial case assessment to drawing up and observing a strict behavioral plan on quitting. 

Most importantly, programs in smoking cessation clinics also include valuable pharmacological intervention, or medical solutions in order to address the physiological aspects of smoking.

Smokers getting younger. Dr. Glynna Ong Cabrera (right) of the Lung Center of the Philippines presents the case of fourteen-year-old patient AJ (seated, left) at a press conference commemorating Philippine “No Smoking Month” this June. The student successfully kicked the deadly habit of smoking with the help of the hospital’s smoking cessation clinic. Doctor groups and the private healthcare sector are urging medical intervention and support in curbing smoking addiction, primarily through the development of more smoking cessation clinics across the country. Representing the multi-sectoral anti-smoking cause are (from left) Pfizer Philippines public affairs director Gerrard Anthony Paez, Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP) president Dr. Eric Moral, Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) president Dr. Mariano Lopez, and Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Alliance Philippines (FCAP) executive director Dr. Maricar Limpin.

A serious health concern in the Philippines

Many smokers who seek help are those who are already suffering from ailments and diseases related to the habit.

“Most of the time, not until the smoker starts experiencing the health consequences of smoking does he or she realize it is a medical issue that needs to be addressed,” explains Dr. Glynna Ong Cabrera, who heads the smoking cessation clinic at the LCP.

Smoking causes cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke; diabetes; malignancies or cancer; and chronic respiratory diseases such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and asthma. These noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of adult mortality and morbidity worldwide and in the Philippines. 

Among the identified risk factors contributing to NCDs, tobacco is considered responsible for more than two-thirds of lung cancer; 40 percent of chronic respiratory diseases; and 10 percent of cardiovascular diseases. An estimated six million people die from tobacco use each year. In the country, it kills ten Filipinos every hour.

Overcoming challenges to continuous progress 

The call for the establishment of smoking cessation clinics is in line with the findings of the 2011 assessment of the government’s efforts under the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO–FCTC). 

“The country has, for its part, made substantial strides and achievements, most important of which is the passing and implementation of the sin tax law, the restriction of tobacco advertising and promotion, as well as the application of strong graphic warnings on tobacco products,” says Dr. Maricar Limpin, executive director of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Alliance Philippines (FCAP).

Many local government units have also made great progress in passing smoke-free ordinances that prohibit smoking indoors and in public places, notes Dr. Limpin.

However, among the significant challenges in the Philippines that the assessment team identified include the need for a coordinated national cessation infrastructure across the country, in order to effectively implement the national cessation policy.

Alongside the DOH’s program focusing on smoking cessation in government hospitals in the Philippines, the PCP is similarly pushing for mandate among its member hospitals to establish smoking cessation centers.

“With this move, we are optimistic in helping bring down the smoking population in the Philippines, as well as reduce the burden of disease,” concludes Dr. Leachon.

The private sector of the medical and pharmaceutical industry is also backing the drive against smoking cessation in the country. “For our part, Pfizer Philippines strongly supports the nationwide campaign against the habit of smoking in line with our ultimate goals of improving health and well-being at every stage of life,” states corporate affairs director Gerrard Anthony Paez.

Save money and save Mother Earth by saving energy with Sharp

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The rising cost of living these days demands that we look for ways to consume less energy to save up on electric bills. Global warming, a concern on a much bigger scale, implores us to use energy-efficient technology to lessen our carbon footprint.

There are several things in our lifestyles that we can change to save energy – and all of them are quite simple and easy to implement.

One tried and tested way to save energy is to unplug all electronic device when not in use. Turning them off but keeping them plugged consumes “phantom load” which means these devices still consume energy even when you’re not using them.

Another energy-saving tactic is to change your light bulbs with more energy-efficient kinds like LED. They may cost more to buy, but they last at least ten times longer and consume about 75% less energy compared to usual light bulbs. Simple habits like making sure your refrigerator door can save you loads of energy. Placing your refrigerator and air conditioner in strategic areas in the room – away from heat-generating devices at all costs – can also save your appliances from working too hard and therefore consuming more electricity than normal.

Upgrading your old appliances to energy-efficient ones is also a fantastic way to save energy. Old appliances always consume a lot of energy compared to their newer counterparts.

If you’re looking to upgrade to save on energy, reduce electricity consumption, and save the environment, look no further than Sharp Philippines’ lineup of J-Tech Inverter Refrigerator and Split-Type Air Conditioner.

With its 32-step Smart Inverter Technology, J-Tech Inverter Refrigerator provides energy savings by up to 40 percent, with a precise temperature control to help protect stored food and preserve it for longer periods.

With its non-CFC refrigerant, Sharp J-Tech Inverter refrigerators also help protect the ozone layer against harmful emissions. Aside from its J-Tech Inverter technology, this refrigerator also offers other convenient features like the Ag+ Nano deodorizer for a nearly odor-free interior, powerful freezing capability for efficient ice-making, a 2-Way Fresh Room with 29-liter capacity and Rapid Cooling Room, a huge 17-liter Vegetable Room, big door pockets to store more beverage bottles, and a low-vibration compressor for quiet operation.

The Sharp J-Tech Inverter Air Conditioner, on the other hand, provides convenient and energy-efficient operation with up to 60 percent in energy savings. J-Tech Inverter temperature control technology maintains room temperature and saves energy by switching compressor operation between high and low modes once the room achieves optimal temperature levels. It also achieves even more energy savings when you put it on Eco Mode. J-Tech Aircon also ensures better comfort with its different modes such as Best Sleep Mode and Baby Mode for utmost comfortable coolness for adults or babies, and a Self-Cleaning function that helps prevent the growth of molds on the heat exchanger.

It is also equipped with Plasmacluster Ion Technology which purifies the air by up to 99% with positive and negative ions that attack airborne threats such as viruses and allergens. Sharp, always conscientious when it comes to its products’ environmental impact, uses the R410A, a new type of refrigerant with low environmental effects.

Sharp’s J-Tech Inverter refrigerators and air-conditioners are all engineered to provide superior Sharp technology and sincere Japanese hospitality, each made with the vision of providing more comfort and convenience to make the lives of modern households of today much easier. 

This is all in keeping with Sharp’s commitment to the country, under its “Our Brand, Our Pride” philosophy, a pledge to uplift the quality of Filipinos’ lives through exceptional products. 

For more about Sharp J-Tech Inverter refrigerators, air-conditioners and other products of Sharp (Philippines) Corporation, visit www.sharp.ph or join us on www.facebook.com/SharpPhilippines.

For Singapore's 50th birthday, Singapore Air and MasterCard offer discounted fares to Europe, Australia

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In celebration of the 50th birthday of Singapore, the country’s flag carrier and the global payments giant partnered to offer amazing all-in, round trip companion fares.

This promotion launched by Singapore Airlines and MasterCard. With the greatly discounted prices,

you can now fly from the Philippines to these continents with a friend.

Without a doubt, seeing all beautiful places becomes more special when accompanied by a loved one. Europe and Australia are home to some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, such as the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, Sydney Opera House, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and the Blue Mosque. 

From now until June 8, MasterCard branded credit, debit and prepaid cardholders can get the second ticket to Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney for as low as USD500, and to Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Istanbul, London, Manchester, Milan, Moscow, Munich, Paris, and Zurich, for only USD650!

In addition, single ticket purchases come at “celebratory prices:” from only USD680 to the Australian cities, USD920 to Barcelona, and USD990 to the European cities.

To avail of the discount, MasterCard cardholders simply must use their MasterCard card to purchase a Singapore Airlines or SilkAir Economy Class airline ticket, from Manila, Cebu, Davao or Kalibo to Australia and selected Europe destinations, from Singapore Airlines or SilkAir ticketing offices.

Ticket purchases made using a MasterCard card also entitle the cardholder to a complimentary Singapore Stopover Holiday (SSH) package which includes 1-night hotel stay in Singapore, transfers, unlimited rides on SIA Hop-on bus and admission to major attractions including Sentosa Island, Madame Tussauds, Singapore River Cruise and Gardens by the Bay. 

Finally, cardholders can shop, dine or lounge at Singapore Changi Airport with a free SGD20 Changi Dollar Voucher.

“Through this promotion, MasterCard joins Singapore in celebrating its 50th birthday, while also offering our cardholders this amazing opportunity to experience these wonderful cities of Australia and Europe at exclusive fares,” explained MasterCard VP for Marketing Ailea Zialcita.

To book, visit Singapore Airlines Ticket Office at 33F LKG Tower Ayala Avenue 6801 Makati City or call Singapore Airlines Reservations at 756-8888, Mondays to Fridays (except holidays), from 8:30am to 5:00pm. 

Truly, MasterCard lets its cardholders make priceless travel memories!

Aiza Seguerra with “Araw Gabi: Mga Awit ni Maestro Ryan”

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Aiza Seguerra pays tribute to Maestro Ryan Cayabyab in new album entitled “Araw Gabi: Mga Awit ni Maestry Ryan.”

Sometime years ago, Universal Records has gathered the biggest rock acts to pay tribute to the APO Hiking Society in the album “Kami NApo Muna.” 

This was followed by Ogie Alcasid’s tribute to George Canseco (“Ngayon At Kailanman”) and Christian Bautista’s tribute to Jose Mari Chan (“Romance Revisited”).

And now, her first album under Universal Records, Aiza Seguerra pays tribute to Maestro Ryan Cayabyab in the album “Araw Gabi: Mga Awit ni Maesto Ryan.”

The album, composed of some of the most-loved Ryan Cayabyab compositions, also features Mr. C playing the piano for the first single “Tuwing Umuulan At Kapiling Ka.”

“Napaka-special ng album nito kasi binigyan ko ng sarili kong take ang pinakasikat na compositions ni Mr. Ryan Cayabyab,” says Aiza. “Ang sarap ka-trabaho niya kasi maski Maestro na siya, he listens to my inputs.”

Aiza also shares that the people working on the album prefer the execution to be very “organic.”

When asked about some of the realizations the singer had during the recording of the album, Aiza shared, “his songs are very familiar, but if you get technical about it, like when you are already recording, ang hirap pala kasi komplikado ang mga notes niya.”

The album also includes “Araw Gabi,” “Minsan Ang Minahal Ay Ako,” “Kay Ganda Ng Ating Musika,” “Kahit Ika’y Isang Panaginip Lamang,” “Paano Na Kaya,” “Tunay Na Ligaya,” “Iduyan Mo,” among others.

1."Araw Gabi”
2.”Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka”
3.”How Can I”
4.”Kahit Ika’y Panaginip Lang”
5.”Paano na Kaya”
6.”Can This be Love”
7.”Kailan”
8.”Limang Dipang Tao”
9.”Iduyan Mo”
10.”Mama”
11.”Minsan Ang Minahal ay Ako”
12.”Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika”

Epson Leads Dot Matrix printers and Point-of-Sale (POS) categories

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Epson Philippines Corporation (EPC) known for producing premium printing and visual communications products and services. 

Epson  extends the company's winning streak in the category of Dot Matrix printers and Point-of-Sale (POS) systems.

Based on Epson's internal data, Epson remains as the world's leader in the dot matrix impact printer category and is still the undisputed leader in the country. The Epson brand continues to be the brand of choice in the Philippines for the past 17 years - holding an outstanding 96% market share in this category.

Dot matrix printing is a type of computer printing which uses an impact print head that strikes the paper surface. It is an established means of creating prints coated with microencapsulated ink on its reverse side, or sandwiched with carbon paper. This single-pass process is able to produce multiple copies, and offers an economical alternative to other printing technologies if a full-color output is not required.

Another area that Epson excels in is the POS systems category. Epson's POS printers continue to be the leading brand in the Philippines for the sixth year in a row. POS printers are the thermal modules (TM) typically used by retail and service-oriented industries for printing receipts. They are specifically designed for speed, accuracy, and cost efficiency with the aim of reducing capital investment and facilitating faster customer turnaround time.

Offering future-ready POS solutions, Epson's Intelligent Business Solutions are designed for easy integration and optimization. The company's Intelligent Series Printers are built to be scalable to suit the needs of businesses of any size, providing a variety of intelligent functions delivered by compact, space-saving printers.

One such intelligent solutions printer is the Epson TM-P20 mobile POS printer. Its compact and rugged design disguises a fast print speed of up to 100mrn/sec, while the best-in-c1ass operational battery life, fast Near Field Communication (NFC) pairing, and a versatile compatibility with multiple smart devices make it ideally suited for on-the-go printing.

Thea Austria, Product Manager for POS systems

"Technology is an ever-changing landscape and we constantly see companies using obsolete systems simply because of the rost and effort it would take to constantly overhaul their Point-of-Sale (POS) systems," says Thea Austria, Product Manager for POS systems. 

"Our new Intelligent Series ensures that the system can grow with the business and adapt with the changing times, making it an essential tool for our partners."