Award winning Filipino dance troop to perform at World Culture Festival

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The multi-awarded dancers from Leyte’s Buyogan festival to perform at world’s largest gathering for global peace and The Art of Living Foundation’s 35th year Anniversary

Over a hundred cultural performers from the multi-award Buyogan Festival from Leyte have been invited to perform at the upcoming World Culture Festival. 

The World Culture Festival is the largest gathering the world has ever seen, attracting millions from different cultures, nations and faiths uniting under the resounding message of One World Family. The group’s attendance will mark the first time that a representative from the Philippines will grace the global event which will be held on March 11-13, 2016 in New Delhi, India.

The Buyogan Festival is a group of cultural performers from Leyte, which was critically impacted by Typhoon Yolanda three years ago. They have won several championships at the Sinulog Festival and are proud to represent the nation in this historic event.

They have choreographed a special performance which is a tribute to the world for their help after Typhoon Hayien and also showing the resilience of the Filipinos moving from devastation to rehabilitation and to celebration.

The WCF is part of the 35^th anniversary celebration of The Art of Living, a global movement founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.

Speaking on this grand celebration, World Culture Festival 2016, The Art of Living founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar said, "We are a part of one humanity and we express ourselves differently through music, art and food. Celebrating our diverse cultures binds us together and expands our perspectives. The World Culture Festival emphasizes on co-existence, demonstrating the power of peace by bringing millions of people together. It is an opportunity for world leaders from cultural, social, political, business fields to come together to rekindle human values in the pursuit of happiness and peace."

​​The Art of Living is looking for generous benefactors and sponsors who would like to contribute and make the dream of the award-winning Buyogan Festival cultural performers to travel to India a reality.

The Buyogan Festival is a fiesta that is celebrated in the coastal town of Abuyong in Leyte, where the local buyog or bees take the spotlight as vibrant bee dancers perform during a grand parade. No doubt, it would be a shining moment for Tacloban—an area that has been reeling from challenges in the aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda—its people, and our nation as we showcase the best of the Philippines to the world.

‘World Culture Festival' (WCF) is expected to host millions of people from over 155 countries in New Delhi. The event is supported by the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Tourism and the Government of India.

 The 3-day grand festival will have a massive 7-acre stage to seat thousands of artists, dignitaries and guests as they witness the staging of a most impressive variety of music, dances and other art forms from India and across the globe, with the vision of preserving them for future generations. On all three days of the festival, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will lead a ‘Peace Meditation’ which would be joined by millions from across the globe.  

Individuals and organizations who wish to know more on how they can support may call Kim Hartman at 0917 8480063. 

More info can be found at The Art of Living Philppines Facebook page, #wcf2016 #worldculturefestival. 

Help fund the initiative online at www.tinyurl.com/BuyoganToWCF. Learn more about the Art of Living at: www.artofliving.org or call 0917-840-0049  (02) 622-2566 for inquiries.

Several graduates of the Art of Living programs as well as those who are simply interested to be part of a Global Peace effort are also making plans to represent the Philippines and attend this historic event. Filipinos who have been keen to visit India may also see this as a great opportunity. The Art of Living Foundation can help with tour packages and travel arrangements.

About The Art of Living:

The Art of Living Foundation, founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981, is a global movement, rekindling human values in the pursuit of happiness and peace. It works to bring peace at the level of the individual, society, nation and the world as a whole. Its areas of work cover conflict resolution, disaster and trauma relief, poverty alleviation, empowerment of women, prisoner rehabilitation, education for all, campaigns against female foeticide and environment sustainability. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a universally revered spiritual and humanitarian leader. His vision of a violence-free, stress-free society through the reawakening of human values has inspired millions to broaden their spheres of responsibility and work towards the betterment of the world. 

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is engaged in peace negotiations and counselling in conflict zones around the world. His peace initiatives in Sri Lanka, Iraq, the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Kashmir and Bihar have been widely acknowledged.  Present in 155​ countries, The Art of Living formulates and implements lasting solutions to conflicts and issues faced by individuals, communities and nations.  Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has reached out to an estimated 370 million people worldwide through personal interactions, public events, teachings, Art of Living workshops and humanitarian initiatives.

Learn more about this amazing event at www.worldculturefestival.com or call Kim Hartman at 0917 8480063 or 0917 8105990 for more info on how to join the Philippine delegation traveling to India.

Website: www.worldculturefestival.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/wcf2016

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheWorldCultureFestival

Health : Five simple ways to love your lungs

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Lung cancer is not just a smoker’s disease

(An educational article sponsored by MSD.)

Though the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified tobacco use as the cause of 70 percent of lung cancer deaths, those who do not smoke are equally at risk of developing the disease. A study conducted on Asian patients with advanced adenocarcinoma affecting the lungs has even shown that non-smokers have a higher chance of forming tumors compared with regular smokers.1

According to the WHO, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide.2The same is true in the Philippines where it is the top cancer killer among Filipino men, and the second most common cancer killer among Filipino women.3 Aside from tobacco use, lung cancer may develop due to family history, exposure to industrial and chemical carcinogens, as well as indoor and outdoor air pollution. The WHO also identifies unhealthy habits as a leading cause of cancer.4

“There is a popular notion that lung cancer is a smoker’s disease, but even those who are already leading healthy and active lifestyles may still be exposed to its other risk factors,” said Dr. Ena Ang of MSD Oncology. “That is why vigilance is necessary to protect ourselves against lung cancer.”

For smokers, quitting is the necessary first step to avoiding cancer. As for non-smokers, certain habits and practices can help minimize risk for the disease. Below are just some of these to ensure good lung health:

1. Avoid heavily polluted areas

Increased exposure to particulate matter and air pollution increases the likelihood of lung cancer, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Particulate matter (PM) refers to a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air, emitted from sources such as construction sites, power plants, industries, automobiles, and fireworks.5

If you work in or near areas that emit large volumes of PM, wearing protective equipment is advised. If you can’t avoid going to heavily polluted areas, you can wear a mask recommended or provided by your doctor.6

2. Keep indoor air clean

Indoor air pollution from solid fuels like wood, charcoal, and coal used for cooking causes approximately 17 percent of annual premature lung cancer deaths in adults, according to the WHO.7Households can reduce this risk by switching to cooking technologies that are safer to human health. Because homes are also susceptible to outdoor particulate matter due to air leaks, air purifiers are recommended to improve indoor air quality.8

3. Eat more fruit and vegetables

Diet plays a central role in keeping the body healthy against diseases, including cancer. Fruits and vegetables contain fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help fight off cancer, while diets heavy in protein and fat increase the risk for the disease.9Regular exercise, as well as abstinence from tobacco and alcohol, maximizes the benefits of a healthy diet.

4. Exercise more

According to the National Cancer Institute of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, physically active individuals have a lower chance of developing lung cancer by up to 20 percent.10If you already exercise regularly, it’s important to avoid working out in or near heavily polluted areas to keep your lungs safe and healthy.

5. Seek medical assistance for symptoms

In many cases, lung cancer is already in the advanced stages by the time it is diagnosed as the symptoms are often mistaken for common illnesses. An early symptom of the disease can be as simple as a cough. When you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, fatigue, and loss of weight and appetite, see a doctor right away. Coughing up blood is already a serious sign that could indicate advanced lung cancer.

Immediate diagnosis could prompt early action especially if the cancer is still in its early stages. This does not mean, however, that the disease is no longer manageable once it is already advanced. At this point, advanced treatment options are available to help in managing Stage 4 lung cancer to increase the rate of survival.

1 A Prospective, Molecular Epidemiology Study of EGFR Mutations in Asian Patients with Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer of Adenocarcinoma Histology (2014)http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4132036/ Accessed January 28 2016.

2 World Health Organization http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs297/en/ Accessed January 28, 2016

3 Globocan 2012 http://globocan.iarc.fr/Pages/fact_sheets_population.aspx Accessed January 28, 2016

4 World Health Organization http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs297/en/Accessed January 28, 2016

5 United States Environmental Protection Agency http://www3.epa.gov/airquality/particlepollution/basic.html Accessed January 28, 2016

6 Cleveland Clinichttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic_Understanding_COPD/hic_Preventing_Respiratory_Infection_and_Avoiding_IrritantsAccessed January 28, 2016

7 World Health Organizationhttp://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs292/en/ Accessed January 28, 2016

8 Vijayan, V. K., Paramesh, H., Salvi, S. S., & Dalal, A. A. K. (2015). Enhancing indoor air quality –The air filter advantage. Lung India : Official Organ of Indian Chest Society, 32(5), 473–479. http://doi.org/10.4103/0970-2113.164174

9 Healwithfood.org http://www.healwithfood.org/lungcancer/diet.php Accessed January 28,2016

10 National Cancer Institute http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/obesity/physical-activity-fact-sheet#q7Accessed January 28, 2016

The Voice Season 10 welcomes the return of Judge Cristina Aguilera

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Sweet and feisty Cristina Aguilera returns to one of the chairs for the tenth season of the Voice. Staying put also are its male judges: Blake Shelton, Adam Levine and Pharrell Williams.

Flying high from fantastic ratings from Season 9, this latest installment promises to once again keep its audience at the edge of their seats as it showcases the best singing talent across the USA. Watch as each judge take tips from their own phenomenal careers and use them to mentor every competitor in the show.

Still known to be the show that revolutionized singing competitions across the globe, The Voice enjoys critical acclaim and a loyal worldwide following.

The All New Season 10 airing every Tuesday and Wednesday on AXN.

AXN is seen on Cable Link Channel 38, Cignal Digital TV Channel 61, Global Destiny Cable Channel 61, Dream Channel 20, Gsat Channel 12, SKYCable Channel 49.

www.AXN-Asia.com

Celebrate National Flip-Flops Day with Havaianas!

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Check this out! Havaianas is officially opening summer as we celebrate National Flip-Flops Day on March 11.

It's hot in the Philippines most of the time but there's still something about summer that makes it a season to look forward to. The backdrop is more vibrant and the skies appear to be bluer.

Summer also has another meaning for every Havaianatico - National Flip-Flops Day is coming! Every year, Havaianas is front and center in officially welcoming the most beautiful season. On March 11, 2016, everyone is invited to join in the fun of wearing Havaianas wherever you're headed to! 

As we say hello to brighter and more laid back days, Havaianas is treating you to a full day of festivities and special offers: 

20% OFF!!!

Life is truly better in flip-flops and Havaianas is giving you a sweet deal so you can grab a new pair for the summer season. All flip-flop styles are on a 20% discount just for one day at select participating retailers nationwide. Too busy to go out? Get your flip-flop fix at shophavaianas.ph. Free shipping on all orders just on National Flip-Flops Day. 

Havaianas Foot Truck

This year's National Flip-Flops Day promises to be more exciting as we bring you the Havaianas Foot Truck! Touring around some parts of the Metro, this truck will surely bring new levels of Havaianas joy! Receive a complimentary flip-float just by taking an individual or group selfie by the Havaianas Foot Truck and uploading it on Instagram with the hashtag #NationalFlipFlopsDayPH. Simply visit the truck and get to cool down with a Havaianas popsicle! Talk about great deals on wheels!

In-store treats

Sweet treats are also up for grabs through-out the day at selected All Flip-Flops stores and Havaianas retailers. To get the celebration going, a complimentary milkshake from Cupcakes by Sonja will be distributed in All Flip-Flops Trinoma, Megamall and BHS. The sweet treats don't stop there, shoppers who will pass by later in the day will get complimentary LED cotton candy sticks. 

Summer Getaway Bag

This summer, it's time to chase your adventures with Havaianas! For 2 regular-priced pairs or Php 1,500.00 worth of Havaianas merchandise, customers can avail of the bag for only Php 395.00. 

Selfeet contest 

Upload your most creative selfeet on Instagram and be 1 of the lucky 5 winners to receive a special prize from Havaianas. 

For the full mechanics and updates regarding National Flip-Flops Day, check out HavaianasPhilippines on facebook, and @havaianasphils on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat with the #nationalflipflopsdayph hashtag. To shop online, visit www.shophavaianas.ph.

Fine Japan’s Premium HyC150 formulation wins the 2015 Monde Selection International High Quality Award

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 Premium HyC150, touted as the country’s modern-day “fountain of youth,” recently showcased its world-class quality formula of Hyaluron & Collagen + Ubiquinol by winning the International High Quality Trophy under the Diet and Health selection during the Monde Selection Quality Awards for 2015.

Fine Japan’s Premium HyC150 sold only in the Philippine market

The International High Quality Trophy is awarded to a product after having achieved three consecutive years of high level of quality and a grand gold and/or gold award, which HyC150 already achieved since its introduction in the Philippines. HyC150’s superior “lifting” formula regains youthful vitality in your skin by renewing its elasticity and firmness. As Fine’s newest conceptualization, its lifting supplement aims to incorporate skin and body beauty into your daily lifestyle effortlessly and effectively. 

Fine Japan’s Hyaluron, Collagen+Ubiqui

HyC150 also won the prestigious Monde Selection Gold Award in 2014. Monde Selection, created in 1961, is an annual non-competitive award open to food and drink products. It is run by the commercial company, International Institute for Quality Selections, based in Brussels, Belgium. Consumer products are tasted and tested in order to grant them a quality label. Monde Selection states that “this bronze, silver, gold or grand gold quality label can be compared to the quality stars of a hotel or those of the Michelin Guide.”

The award thus highlighted HyC150’s proven effectiveness in improving overall health and restoring undeniable youthfulness that emanates from within.

HyC150, manufactured by FINE Japan Co., Ltd., has since become the Filipina woman’s secret weapon when it comes to looking young and vibrant, living a physically fit life, and a “feel good and confident” mentality overall. It provides the modern Filipina of today the ability to stay beautiful inside and out, and the vigor and vivacity to help her get through a busy and challenging day whether at work or at home.

Potent supplement drink HyC 150 contains three youth-inducing elements to achieve overall health and vitality: Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ubiquinol, plus other active ingredients such as Vitamin C, Biotin, Elastin and Pearl Coix.

Collagen, one of the plentiful proteins in the body, is found in the skin, muscle, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and bones and keeps the body structurally sound since 70 percent of our skin is composed of collagen.

Hyaluronic Acid, on the other hand, is nature’s moisturizer. It nourishes and hydrates the skin so it looks younger than ever, plus lubricates joints and eye tissues, regenerates healthy gums, plus supports, nourishes and hydrates the scalp for healthy and glistening hair. It even aids in the absorption of nutrients in the body and helps regulate protein for better wound healing.

Finally, Ubiquinol is the body’s natural protector and fighter against harmful environmental toxins that may enter the body. It also helps keep the body’s vessel walls, nerve tissue and organ linings from weakening due to physical stress, pollution, poor diet and the usual physical “wear-and-tear” due to advancing age.

This unique supplement drink is thus far the only beverage that excellently fuses together these three potent ingredients to give unmatched benefits to the body. According to clinical studies done in Japan, North America, and Europe, around 93 percent of users stated marked improvements in their bodies when it comes to their hair, nails and skin with continued use.

HyC150 is manufactured by FINE Japan Co. Ltd. and is distributed in the Philippines by Bright Ray Enterprises. For more information, visit our website at www.HyC150.com; “Like” us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HyC150); follow us on Twitter (#HyC150) or Instagram (@HyC150), or call (02) 5467297, 09177750779. HyC150 is available at selected Watsons stores nationwide and online at Lazada (www.lazada.com.ph). 

"Mahalagang Paalala: Ang HyC150 ay hindi gamot at hindi dapat gamiting panggamot sa anumang uri ng sakit."