Pizza Hut & Taco Bell Philippines fight hunger with the United Nations-World Food Programme (UN-WFP)

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(L-R) Martin Bettelley, WFP Philippines Deputy Country Director, and Teck Huack “TH” Lim, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell Chief Operating Officer, give out food as part of their joint ongoing commitment to fight hunger among Filipino children. Photo: WFP/Faizza Tanggol

As part of its continued commitment to help fight hunger among Filipino children, Yum! Brands’ Pizza Hut and Taco Bell, together with the United Nations-World Food Programme (UN-WFP), recently visited conflict-affected communities in Lanao to observe the WFP’s ongoing feeding programme for schoolchildren.

(L-R) Frank Gonzalez, Pizza Hut District Manager-North and VisMin; Lorent Adrias, Taco Bell Senior Marketing Manage; Martin Bettelley, WFP Philippines Deputy Country Director; Teck Huack “TH” Lim, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell Chief Operating Officer; Erryl Ramos, Taco Bell Vice-President for Operations; and Jeanette Uy, Pizza Hut District Manager-South. Photo: WFP/Faizza Tanggol

The school-based feeding programme, which benefits thousands of children in conflict-affected Central Mindanao, is part of the annual World Hunger Relief Programme (WHRP), a campaign touted as the world’s largest private sector hunger relief effort to raise awareness, volunteerism and funds to benefit WFP. Established in 2007, the WHR is primarily focused on engaging Yum! Brands’ associates, franchisees and consumers in over 41,000 restaurants around the globe to end world hunger by contributing money to help feed beneficiaries of the WFP. 

“We’ve been a supporter of the World Food Programme since 2008, and we continue to support it by raising awareness about food and nutrition security among our customers and employees,” shared Teck Huack “TH” Lim, Chief Operating Officer of Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. “In the Philippines, we have over 5,000 employees and by engaging them to be part of WHRP, we can make a huge contribution in alleviating hunger especially among children, while encouraging our employees to grow into socially responsible members of their community,” he added.

(L-R) Martin Bettelley, WFP Philippines Deputy Country Director; Teck Huack “TH” Lim, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell Chief Operating Officer; Erryl Ramos, Taco Bell Vice-President for Operations; and Mayor Farhana Palawan of Poona Piagapo distribute loot bags filled with school supplies. Photo: WFP/Mei Nebreja-Santos

“We would like to thank Yum! Brands Pizza Hut and Taco Bell Philippines for their unrelenting support throughout the years,” said Martin Bettelley, Deputy Country Director of WFP Philippines. “Through their initiative, we get to provide nutritious meals to schoolchildren in Central Mindanao who need them the most. In time, we can all achieve our goal to end world hunger.”

TH Lim and Martin Bettelley led in the recent distribution of nutritious meals and loot bags were recently distributed to 900 children from Denaig Elementary School in Poona Piagao, Lanao Del Norte, and Pindulonan Elementary School in Piagapo, Lanao del Sur. Joining them were representatives from the Department of Education and local government units. 

The World Hunger Relief 2015 campaign to raise funds for school meals in conflict-affected Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Maguindanao will start in November across all Pizza Hut and Taco Bell outlets in the Philippines. This year, Philippine Pizza Inc aims to sell tokens in exchange for donations, which cover coin banks and loose change. 

Yum! Brands’ Pizza Hut and Taco Bell Philippines began their World Hunger Relief campaign in 2008, and have since raised over PhP25 million to help feed Filipino schoolchildren through WFP. This campaign is one of the largest private sector hunger relief initiatives spanning more than 125 countries and territories.

WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger worldwide, delivering food assistance in emergencies and working with communities to improve nutrition and build resilience. Each year, it assists more than 80 million people in around 80 countries.

For more information about World Hunger Relief 2015, visit the official Philippine websites of Pizza Hut and Taco Bell at www.pizzahut.com.ph and www.tacobell.com.ph respectively.

Be scar less and flawless with Vine’s CO2 laser

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Scarring is part of the body’s healing process but scars need not stay on your skin forever. The same goes with skin hyperpigmentation. But through innovative solutions discovered by dermatologists, many patients are now faced with several alternatives on how to improve their skin condition.

One of the latest methods out there is the fractional carbon dioxide laser treatment. According to Dr. Emehly Sevilla of Vine Holistic Medical Aesthetics, both young and old may undergo the treatment. In fact, her youngest patient was seven years old. Indications of the CO2 laser treatment include deep scars, big pores, stretch marks, fine lines, and skin conditions like syringomas, milias, warts, keloids, melasma, freckles, and hyperpigmentation in the face, underarm, under butt, knees, elbows, fingers and toes. It can also treat dark lines and ‘chicken skin’ on underarms.

Aside from erasing marks and blemishes, it is also a good anti-aging tool and can be done along with other treatments. Vine’s extensive and simple programs work in synergy for optimum effect. Dr. Sevilla said she erases wrinkles with fractional carbon dioxide laser and proceeds with the Botox procedure.

“If the patients do not have skin problems but want to tighten their pores, wants to have skin rejuvenation and remove fine lines, fractional carbon dioxide laser can do that. It’s a good maintenance as well. Even some 25-year olds already have mini-lines on their forehead because of the lifestyle today, so this treatment is the answer,” said Dr. Sevilla.

In the past, doctors only based their evaluation on the visual and history of the patient (background of what really happened) to know how deep the problem is. With the new fractional carbon dioxide laser machine, its skin analyzer can accurately assess the skin problem and recommend the ideal operation. It can tell if the skin is moist or dry and will set itself to the safest setting that the patient needs. However, Dr. Sevilla said that the new machine can also be set manually if the doctor wishes to. 

"If you overset the treatment for a certain problem because you’re only visually only looking at it, it may cause inflammatory hyperpigmentation that will leave dark marks,” noted Sevilla.

The advantage of fractional carbon dioxide laser treatment is that it is measurable, precise and safe. “The problem with peels is that you cannot control its absorption. There are patients where you put this percentage and they would absorb and peel so much, but if you apply the same percentage to other patients who have thicker skin, they won’t peel that much,” explained Dr. Sevilla.

Furthermore, she said that with needling procedures, doctors can only base on the visuals and history taking so it may not be precise.

For safety, the doctor, nurse and patient wear goggles during the whole procedure which usually lasts for 15 to 20 minutes. If the area to be treated is near the eyes, they use micropore tape so that the eyes remain closed.

“Laser is okay with treating eye bag area but for safety reasons, we don’t recommend treating on the upper eyelid (on top of eyeballs) even if the depth can be controlled,” remarked Dr. Sevilla.

Before the procedure, anesthesia cream is applied on the skin. It takes 30 minutes to numb the face and one hour for extremities. A slight discomfort may be felt on the first session. But none of that will happen in the succeeding sessions, said Dr. Sevilla. She explained that the tip of the machine emits air and distracts the patient from any possible pain.

The procedure will leave the patient with pinkish skin. To go back to their daily activities, patients need to undergo cryoporation before leaving the center to close the pores, relax the skin and infuse more serum. Post laser cream is given to enhance cell repair. 

After getting the laser treatment, avoid eating chicken, seafood and eggs. Do not wash the face or put on makeup for at least 12 hours after the treatment but sunblock lotion can be used as long as the skin has already absorbed the serum. Patients can come back for another session as early as two weeks but normal protocol is a month.

However, not everyone can just go and get the procedure. Contraindications include chronic skin diseases like psoriasis, allergies, fungal infection, eczema, rashes, measles and chicken pox. “Treat the skin problem first before doing the laser. But if the area to be treated is far away from area with disease, laser can be done,” related Dr. Sevilla.

Vine Aesthetics is located at Unit 2H Mezzanine Level, Grand Hamptons Tower II, 1st Ave. cor. 31st St., Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. For inquiries, call tel. nos. 09178590642, 217-2687, 843-3023, email vineaesthetics@gmail.com or visit www.vineaesthetics.com.

Experience natural care “down there”

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Everyone’s going all-natural these days, whether we’re talking about organic food, health supplements from plant and animal extracts, and even personal care and beauty products. And, why not? Ever since, people have long used natural ingredients to effectively address their woes and concerns.

This is why pH Care bottled up nature’s wonders through two popularly used ingredients, papaya and guava leaves, to come up with their all-new pH Care Naturals line in pH Care Naturals Papaya and pH Care Naturals Guava. The folks behind best-selling feminine wash pH Care have an intimate understanding of the importance of caring for your feminine area, and they expertly combine the properties of these winning natural ingredients with their mild and effective intimate care products. 

pH Care Naturals Papaya

There are a lot of factors that can influence a woman’s confidence when it comes to donning that swimsuit, including puson problems and cleavage consciousness. But one other common insecurity many women have is dark skin in and around the feminine area, and this is something they can feel self-conscious about even in the comfort and privacy of their own rooms and bathrooms. And, while there are many products for whitening dark skin in other parts of the body, most of these aren’t safe or suited for use in intimate areas. But now, pH Care has a new whitening feminine wash variant that uses natural ingredients, so you keep the sensitive area fresh and fair. The new pH Care Naturals Papaya is powered with papaya extract, so you get fairer skin in as early as 14 days! And since we know papaya is one of nature’s wonders when it comes to skin-whitening, you’re sure to get only the best results with the mildest ingredients.

pH Care Naturals Guava

Even if you’re not overly concerned with dark skin, you may still want a feminine wash made from natural ingredients that will still keep your intimate area fresh and clean. After all, in a hot country like ours, sweat can lead to discomfort, even body odor, and infection—and it’s worse when it involves the feminine area! But no need to worry; pH Care Naturals Guava has been specially infused with guava leaf extract, which is well-known for its cleansing and anti-bacterial properties. In fact, the use of guava leaves for intimate care is a traditionally renowned practice passed on from generation to generation. So if you’re among the 33% of Filipinas constantly seeking for natural solutions “down there,” then give pH Care Naturals Guava a try. It will naturally deodorize the area so you can feel confident regardless of outfit, activity, or even weather. It has quite a refreshing scent, too!

Now, you can be assured of natural care “down there”, para fresh and clean na, odor-free pa!

The NEW! pH Care Naturals Intimate Wash is available for P49.50 (50mL) and P104 (150mL) at leading supermarkets, drugstores, and beauty stores. For more information, check out facebook.com/pHCare.

Visit FB: pH Care: Fresh, Sexy Secrets IG: @pHCarePhilippines Twitter: @pHCarePhilippines

#pHCareNaturals #NaturalCare

New online video highlights the power of family in inspiring success Award-winning filmmaker Dan Villegas directs

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A heartwarming video that tells the intertwined story of family and success is making waves online.

The video, aptly titled Grandma’s Little Angel, tells the story of Kassie and her grandmother Linda who used to run her own local chocolate shop in Lipa, Batangas. After Lola Linda’s business closes down, Kassie continues the dream for her beloved grandmother who has instilled in her the love for chocolate-making and the passion to pursue her dreams.

The video tells the heartwarming story of Kassie and Lola Linda.

The heartwarming video’s emotionally powerful storytelling is courtesy of award-winning Filipino director and cinematographer Dan Villegas. Villegas’ impressive portfolio includes Cinemalaya entry Mayohan, and blockbuster hits like The Breakup Playlist, English Only, Please, Bride for Rent and She’s the One.

The video was directed by award-winning filmmaker Dan Villegas.

“The first time I heard the concept for Grandma’s Little Angel, I was excited to shoot it. Everyone has a Lola,or someone they love, so this is highly relatable,” he said. “I want the viewers to feel lucky that there are people who love them, and that they should tell their loved ones how appreciated and cherished they are.”

The video emphasizes a key aspect of success for many entrepreneurial and hardworking Filipinos who persevere despite the challenges—that it is best shared with people who inspired that success.

When it comes to running a business, most Filipinos are fueled, not by their personal desire for fame, power and wealth, but by their passion to give a better life for their loved ones, particularly their families. Ask a Filipino entrepreneur, and you’ll likely hear a story about their desire to let their parents or children experience a more comfortable life. Or a story about how they want to fulfill a dream for their loved ones who inspired them.

Here’s the touching video that will tug at your heartstrings.

Darren Espanto is on his “D’ Road Tour” across the Philippines!

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D’ Total Performer Darren Espanto in on his way to conquer the Philippines at“D’ Road Tour” after the massive success of his “D’ Birthday Concert” at MOA Arena last May 2015.

Darren is now set to start his “D’ Road Tour” across the country, living his ultimate dream in captivating the hearts of his fans around the world since the onset of the tours at Canada and United States of America.

The course of Darren’s concert series will begin at Araullo University, Cabanatuan this Friday, October 09, which will be followed the next day, October 10 at AUF Sports Center, Angeles. D’ Road Tour will be on its way to SMX Convention Center, Davao on October 23, 2015 and will trail to University of Baguio on October 30. Fans from Cagayan De Oro will also get the chance to catch Darren’s concert in Lim Ket Kai on November 20. Batangueños will also witness his moves on Nov. 27 and will stretch going to La Salle Gym, Bacolod on December 05, 2015. Darren will also invade Cebu this November on which the exact date and venue will be announced soon.

He will be joined by special guests: The Voice of the Philippines Season 2 Grand Champion, Jason Dy, The Voice Kids Season 1 Finalist, Juan Karlos Labajo, and The Voice Kids Season 2 Grand Champion, Elha Nympha.

Fans can expect all-out performances of songs from his self-titled debut album, which features the singles, “In Love Ako Sa’Yo” and “Stuck”, “Makin’ Moves” and many more.

“I’m super excited for the “D’ Road Tours” because I’ll finally be able to perform for my supporters across the Philippines. This is a big milestone for me and I’m really looking forward to it,” Darren said.

Be part of Darren’s dream and journey and head out to the nearest SM Tickets, Ticketworld, and TicketNet. Tickets are available at P2,000 for Moshpit, P1,500 for VIP, P1,000 for Gold, P750 for Silver, P500 for Bronze, and P250 for General Admission.

Darren Espanto “D’ Road Tour” is presented by Talk N’ Text and Spinnr. “Darren” Deluxe Edition album is now out under MCA Music (Universal Music Philippines) on CDs at Astroplus and AstroVision outlets. It is also available through digital downloads via Spinnr at spinnr.ph and iTunes and streaming via spinnr.ph, Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer and Guvera.

For bookings and inquiries, please contact Sammy Samaniego at (632) 9162504 local 107, (0920) 9682991, (0917) 8565174 or email sammy.samaniego@umusic.com. 

For more information about Darren, log on to www.facebook.com/mcamusic.