Unlock Holiday Success: Discover How Pawning Can Be a Game-Changer for Small Business Owners!

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Small business owners shouldn’t brush off the financial advantages of pawning this Christmas.

With the holidays just around the corner, many small business owners are looking forward to seeing a rise in their revenue. In fact, in the US, there has been a clear trend of people turning to pawnshops at the end of the year to get extra cash for their Christmas spending. However, even small business owners must deal with seasonal financing challenges to cope with increased demand and costs.

In the Philippines, businesses are required to provide 13th month pay, which means small business owners must manage their cash flow well and find immediate financing to succeed. For small businesses that need money quickly, owners can turn to pawning for quick and flexible financing during this time. Here are some reasons why pawning can be a viable financing option for small business owners this holiday season:

Pawning provides quick access to cash. Unlike bank loans that may take weeks to get approval for, pawnshops can offer fast and easy access to cash, with most even getting approved within the day. Such quick timing can be crucial for small businesses that need immediate funds to keep up with the increased demand and costs of the busy holiday season.

Pawning does not require a credit history. Credit history is an important part of most banks' loan application process. Without a credit history, a borrower has little to no chance of getting approved for a bank loan. PawnHero — a BSP-regulated online pawn shop — takes a different approach. With PawnHero, all you need is proof of income to use their services. As for the loan amount, it’s based on the value of the item to be pawned. This makes it easier for borrowers, especially small business owners, to have cash on hand instantly.

Pawning has lower interest rates than bank loans. In contrast to banks’ interest rates, pawnshop interest rates are often lower and friendlier to borrowers, making them a more affordable option for small businesses. In April 2023, the average interest rate for bank loans was 7.29%. On the other hand, PawnHero, an online pawnshop in the Philippines, provides one of the lowest interest rates in the country, starting as low as 3.5% per month

Pawning offers flexible loan terms. Pawnshops offer a variety of loan terms from short- to long-term, which lets business owners choose a repayment plan according to their needs and budget. For example, pawning tickets typically have a duration of 30 to 120 days, but they may be renewed if needed. Combined with lower interest rates, pawning is definitely a more practical financing option for small business owners.

Pawning has no prepayment penalties. When banks offer loans, their payment terms are often set in stone, which means borrowers can’t pay in advance, even if they wish to, because they might incur prepayment penalty fees. In contrast, pawnshops do not charge such penalties, so business owners can repay their loans early without any penalty fees. So if revenue surges and investment returns quickly during the holiday season, small business owners can also pay off their loans immediately if they want to.

You don’t have to leave the comfort of your home to pawn. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar pawnshops, PawnHero offers an online platform that allows customers to pawn their items from home. The convenience of accessing PawnHero's services anywhere, anytime, makes it a pawn shop like no other.

During the busy holiday season, every minute counts when it comes to managing your small business. That's why PawnHero is here to help you save valuable time and effort. With PawnHero, you just need to take photos of your items, have them appraised online, wait for quick approval, and schedule your item for free pickup. Once PawnHero receives your item, you can instantly receive your cash through your bank account — ready for your small business’s needs this holiday season!

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About PawnHero

PawnHero (PawnHero.ph) is the first online pawnshop in the Philippines and is leading the modernization of the pawnbroking industry in the country. PawnHero's mission is to provide the most convenient and reliable financial service to all Filipinos in need of quick cash loans. Through the use of advanced technology, PawnHero is able to provide instant cash loans to its customers in a hassle-free and discreet manner.

Hepmil Philippines Launches New Talent Programs to Bolster Creators’ Network Capabilities

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Hepmil Philippines, a technology-driven media company that runs the popular digital content platform PGAG, has launched groundbreaking programs aiming to strengthen the capabilities and skills of hundreds of talents and creators under its network.

Hepmil Philippines is a regional arm of the Hepmil Media Group that manages digital content platforms such as SGAG and MGAG. The group's original content arm produces content that reaches over 30 million Gen Zs & millennials across the region weekly, while its creator network partners with over 800 of the region's top digital content creators who generate over 3 billion monthly views.

Hepmil Talents as TikTok Sellers

Hepmil Philippines has launched its social commerce solutions, allowing its content creators to explore other avenues to monetize their content. This initiative introduces a new incubation program focused on expanding their skills in social selling and forging partnerships with regional e-commerce brands to support their direct-to-consumer efforts.

Jel Directo, Country Manager of Hepmil Creators' Network, shared, “The unstoppable rise of TikTok Shop in the Philippines has brought a platform for our creators not only to elevate their game in content creation but also to increase their opportunities for monetized content.”

“Since this is fast-growing in the local market, we have trained our creators in effective live selling, live streaming, and also affiliate content building. With this, we continue to be partners of brands that are first-movers in the bottom funnel creator marketing able to support them as they speed up test-and-learn efforts,” she added. 

Expanding Hepmil Creators’ Network in the Philippines

Hepmil welcomed accomplished creators such as Jico Umali (Jiconyo), Pipay Kipay, and Adam Alejo into its roster of talented exclusive creators under its digital creator community, Hepmil Creators' Network (HCN).

“We want our creator network to be represented by those who truly understand our passion and skill in content creation. With Jico as our homegrown creator in PGAG; Pipay known on TikTok for her comedy and wit and Adam Alejo, a YouTuber known for his most-watched idea-first challenges, we are able to showcase our ability to support brands in creating content that connects and matters to their audience,” Directo explained. 

With a deep understanding of local culture, Hepmil and its partners are pioneering communication strategies tailored to engage this new generation of mobile-first consumers. Through organic integration into engaging content, brands can make authentic connections with audiences who want entertainment value.

Hepmil Philippines Reveals New and Relatable Showstoppers

True to its mission of empowering and supporting more content creators, the company has created a list of shows that offer entertainment and relatable contents for the audience.

At the forefront is "Oner Gang," an exhilarating travel show featuring social media sensations Jico Umali and Risha Rodriguez. Embarking on an adventure across the Philippines, each episode immerses viewers in the tapestry of local communities to offer an authentic glimpse into the nation's diverse cultures. From savoring delectable cuisines to exploring natural wonders, “Oner Gang” promises an unforgettable expedition.

Injecting humor into the lineup is PGAG's latest show, a workplace satire hilariously named "Sa Office." Starring a stellar cast including Eryka Lucas, Jico Umali, Al Gentrix, and Bert Javellana, the series provides a comedic yet relatable look at office life. Penned by Aly Almario (Alyloony), "Sa Office'' guarantees PGAG's signature laugh-out-loud moments.

"We continue to innovate new shows, with our partner creators, to bring engaging and entertaining content to our fans, new and old," said Erwin Razon, General Manager of PGAG and Bent Pixels Asia. 

Established in 2018, PGAG is a marketing company based in the Philippines that connects with locals on a daily basis. It creates localized digital content for more than 24 million Millennials and Gen Z, particularly memes and videos, reaching over a few million Filipinos weekly through our four content distribution channels.

“The company's strategic partnerships with rising platforms like Oner Gang and PGAG offer brands a strategic entry point into the evolving realm of digital marketing. As the rules of engagement are being rewritten, Hepmil is poised to author the next chapter in the industry,” said Razon.

"We strongly believe in the balance of advertising and entertainment on content, a mindset that allows us to thrive in integrating brand messages seamlessly within our content, while maintaining the authenticity and entertainment that our fans love," he added. 

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ABOUT HEPMIL CREATOR’S NETWORK

HEPMIL CREATORS’ NETWORK (HCN) is a digital creator agency that connects comedy & entertainment creators across SEA with brands to co-create content or reserve ad inventory. HCN is the sister company of SGAG, and a subsidiary of Hepmil Media Group. 

HCN was launched in March 2020 to provide business opportunities for independent TikTok content creators in SEA, while leveraging its expertise in comedy to mentor these talents. It also enables a fuss-free coordination for brands to ensure its campaigns’ objectives are met and brand-safe content is produced for millennials and Gen Zs. Powered by Hepmil’s servicing expertise and data analytics, we work with our TikTok creators to launch entertaining and hyper-localized content based on advertisers’ campaign objectives. 

HCN’s network includes more than 100 TikTok and YouTube creators from Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines, with more than 25 million subscribers and over 40 million monthly views. It now has close to half of the biggest comedy and entertainment YouTubers in Singapore, including Wah! Banana (1.33M subscribers), Ryan Sylvia (1M subscribers), Naomi Neo (446k subscribers), Millennials of Singapore (197k subscribers) and Zermatt Neo (181k subscribers), making it the largest inventory for comedy and entertainment channels in the country.

Learn more about HCN and our creators at www.hepmil.com/creators.

ABOUT HEPMIL MEDIA GROUP

Hepmil Media Group is a network of technology-driven media companies that serves to better the lives of millions in Southeast Asia through content that engages and entertains. SGAG is currently the top comedy platform in Singapore on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok, based on data from NoxInfluencer, Tubular Labs, and Cloutmeter.

Prevent the Surge of Illness: 6 Expert Ways to Prevent Kids From Getting the Flu

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has observed a surge in respiratory illnesses among children in northern China since mid-October 2023. Chinese authorities attribute this increase to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions and the onset of the cold season, leading to the circulation of known pathogens such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Mycoplasma pneumonia and RSV are known to affect children more than adults.

In our quest to ensure the safety of ourselves and our loved ones, we must find proactive approaches to cleanliness both inside and outside our homes. Traditional cleaning methods may not be the most practical solution anymore - damp rags, walis, and feather dusters just won’t cut it (sometimes they can even bring in invisible invaders such as viruses, allergens, and bacteria inside the home). The CDC recommends a few solutions to lower the likelihood of transmission:

• Increasing airflow by using portable high-efficiency particulate air filtration systems (i.e. Air Purifiers

• Using natural ventilation when possible

• Using ultraviolet (UV-C) germicidal irradiation as a supplement to help inactivate the virus

The CDC's recommendation for ultraviolet (UV-C) germicidal irradiation refers to ASHRAE's (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) position on airborne infectious diseases. As stated in their position statement, "ASHRAE will continue to support research that advances the state of knowledge in the specific techniques that control airborne infectious disease transmission through HVAC systems, including ventilation rates, airflow regimes, filtration, and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI)."

In fact, trusted brands have been relying on this technology. Germ-protection innovators such as UV Care have been employing this into different devices to help eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces to help us be more proactive in keeping ourselves and loved ones protected. 

Find out trusted germ protection devices and other science-proven must-knows to get away from the flu and other viruses this season: 

1. Update your vaccines

If you haven’t yet, update your vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual shot for everyone aged 6 months and older. It lowers your chance of getting the flu, and having complications from the flu. 

Most Philippine hospitals and clinics offer the anti-flu vaccine, but if you prefer not to risk exposure in the waiting room, home vaccination is approved by the DOH in the Philippines. You can also get it with your COVID-19 booster, but make sure to consult your doctor first. 

2. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces

Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, laptops, cellphones, light switches, and countertops. 

"UV-C sterilization has gained recognition as a powerful tool in surface disinfection. It not only offers a quick and chemical-free approach but is also effective in eliminating deadly and superbugs, providing an added layer of protection."

But take note not all UV devices are the same! According to experts at UV Care, when choosing a UV sterilizer, choose only genuine UV-C devices as these are the ones most effective for germ protection while UV-A is most effective for skin aging, and UV-B for burning. 

We recommend the UV Care Pocket Sterilizer, your best investment for protection on the go. Handy and lightweight, this sterilizer uses UV-C germicidal technology which means it can kill up to 99.99% of surface pathogens. Carry it with you on car rides, commutes, and when handling your mobile phones, tablets, laptops, remotes, keys, and the like to avoid transferring bacteria from one surface to the other - especially useful for a quick swipe over kid’s toys and devices. 

3. Wear a mask outdoors

Honestly, this should be number one. We all know its benefits already, it protects our sensitivities from viruses, smog, vog, pollution, and the like. People who are not ill and choose to wear a mask can get the best protection by wearing one every time they are in public and at home when around others, according to the CDC. 

4. Keep indoor air clean

Combat the flu with modern solutions - keep your indoor air clean with an air purifier at home. 

Air purifiers usually come with a lot of skepticism because of the complex technology behind how they operate. Although 100% proven by experts, some models in the market can be a total bust since not all air purifiers are the same; so make sure to get a FDA-approved air purifier only from trusted brands.  

Given the multitude of brands available, it is essential to choose a device that has garnered trust and proven effectiveness. This ensures that the product not only works but also delivers immediate and tangible benefits.

We recommend the UV Care Air Purifiers as they are lab-tested and proven effective by multiple independent testing laboratories. "UV Care has achieved Class II Medical Device classification from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its air cleaning products, affirming their safety and effectiveness.”

Adding a UV Care air purifier can eliminate episodes of asthma and allergic rhinitis as it gets rid of these triggers in the air. It also has been tested to instantly kill SARS-CoV-2 & viruses and eliminates 99.9% of airborne pathogens, odors and molds at home, in the office.  You can also travel safely with the portable UV Care Pure Air Portable Air Purifier. 

Experts from UV Care have led innovations in germ-protection technology, and they emphasize on studying the product and make sure the air purifier comes with Highest Medical Grade HEPA filters combined with Activated Carbon filters and UV-C for disinfection providing the total air care protection. You can check out how these filtration systems help protect your home on the UV Care website.

5. Sterilize home surfaces 

According to the International WELL Building Institute, keeping surfaces germ-free is crucial. Surfaces can be made antimicrobial with UV-C light. For high-touch spots like countertops and handles, they should either be made germ-resistant or regularly cleaned with a UV-C device, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.

UV Care’s Room sterilizers are designed to prevent the spread of the virus or 'hawa-hawa,' ensuring faster recovery and preventing further contamination. Using Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light, these sterilizers target and eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in the air and on surfaces, reaching hard-to-reach crevices and ceilings. Perfect for just about any personal and commercial space such as schools, offices, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, salons, movie theaters, hotels, and restrooms, among others.

6. Stay on top of your diet 

Eating a diet rich in nutrients can help your body fight against illnesses. Even if you do not feel sick, it is important to stay on top of your diet and prepare whole meals for children in the family - choose green rich in vitamins A, C, and E to boost the family’s immune system. 

Remember, it's not just about reacting to the flu; it's about proactively creating a space that actively repels it.  For home and travel additions that will help you fight against the flu, other viruses, allergens, and bacteria you can dive deeper into understanding the functionality and efficacy of UV Care products by exploring their official YouTube Channel and website.

About UV Care

UV Care has been a trusted partner in germ protection of many homes and businesses for more than 8 years. It  is the leading brand in UV-C sterilization technology and has the most comprehensive range of UV-C devices for industrial, medical, corporate, and commercial solutions. There is a UV Care UV-C device in almost all leading hospitals, malls, and businesses in the Philippines. 

All devices are lab-tested and proven effective by multiple independent testing laboratories. UV Care is classified as Class II Medical Device by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered. UV Care is also Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited, a Member of the International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA), and is also listed with the Underwriter Laboratories (UL) and CE certified. 

UV Care is the only brand that offers custom UV-C devices for special applications and purposes not covered by our consumer and industrial line. With an expert team of professional engineers and scientists, UV Care can develop custom UV-C devices for business or special needs to ensure effectiveness and results.

Samsung Philippines is recognized among the Best in Customer Service in the Philippines for 2023

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Recognizing its commitment to provide next-level care for its customers, Samsung Philippines was recently lauded in the Philippines Best in Customer Service 2023 Survey of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Created in cooperation with Statista, the world’s leading data and business intelligence portal, the rankings were identified from the results of an independent survey of more than 11,000 customers in the Philippines who have either made purchases, used services, or gathered information about products or services in the past three years.

The survey was conducted on retailers and service providers from 64 categories, covering a broad- spectrum of customer experiences in traditional retail, online and service segments. For each category, the most relevant brands were included in the scope of the survey according to reputation, turnover or market share.

The final assessment and rankings were based on the Likelihood of Recommendation (50% of the final score) and three evaluation criteria (also 50% of the final score): Accessibility, which measures the availability of customer service in a shop or on a helpline; Professional competence, which measures the quality of information received and whether questions were answered correctly and in sufficient detail and Quality of communication, which measures whether the contact (via e-mail, telephone or face to face) was friendly and polite.

Care right at your doorstep

When it comes to customer service, Samsung understands that their customers are busier than ever. That is why Samsung has invested in customer care channels that meet their consumers where they need it – at their home or in their community.

These services include a door-to-door Pick-up Service for residents living in the NCR, wherein a service partner will pick up their device at their preferred schedule and address, repair it at the authorized service center, and have it delivered back to them once repair has been complete.

Another first in the industry innovation is the Galaxy TechVan, which tours nationwide to offer repair services for Galaxy devices and select home appliances. It has already been to cities like Pangasinan in Luzon, Naga City and Bacolod in Visayas, and in General Santos City and Davao Province in Mindanao.

Samsung also offers multiple channels for customers to get in touch with their representatives at the comfort of their own homes. Aside from the 24/7 Hotline and Live Chat for mobile devices, there’s also the Visual Support service where customers can initiate a video call where they can show the issue with their appliance to the customer service representative.

Going one step further, there’s even the option for Remote Service, where Samsung support can remotely access phones or TVs to diagnose and fix any issues.

If customers prefer face to face interaction at service centers, Samsung has also looked into ways to reduce wait times with a Pre-booking Service where customers can secure an appointment through Smart Q Service available at their queuing app.

Pro-Active Care and Eco-Friendly Waste Disposal

Samsung is also striving to help customers adopt a more eco-friendly lifestyle. These include services that help prolong the life of one’s appliances like Proactive Care, which includes check-up and cleaning of air condition units with the help of Samsung Authorized Service Centers nationwide to help better maintain their AC.

To reduce waste, Eco-Conscious repair is another service which allows users to target repair only for affected parts, like the phone screen or TV panel. This not only helps lower repair costs but also reduces the amount of electronic waste. For items that need to be disposed of, Samsung also offers convenient and responsible options via the Electronic Waste Disposal (EWD) program. Drop boxes for mobile e-waste disposal are deployed at different Samsung Authorized Service Center locations nationwide. Free pick-up of unwanted appliances is also available in the NCR.

Extra care for Samsung Members

Samsung Members enjoy even more customer service perks through the Samsung Members app. In addition to receiving special offers and advantages, the Samsung Members program gives you access to first-rate customer service, insider tips and curated content. The app also has exclusive promos and contests where Members can get prizes, as well as engage with fellow Samsung fans. When you purchase from the Samsung Online Store, you'll also have the opportunity to earn rewards points and track it all in the super app.

Dedicated Care: Samsung Concierge

For those who own a Galaxy Z Series or S Series device, the Samsung Concierge also includes a dedicated toll-free hotline with customer partners ready to assist with configuration, diagnostics, and even help with repairs. Members can secure appointments via this hotline and avail of the express lane when visiting selected Samsung Authorized Service Centers. Application for temporary loaner units of mobile devices and selected appliances while their device is being serviced will also be available.

To learn more about Samsung's customer service programs, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/support/.

Pfizer Philippines and Philippine College of Surgeons Forge Pioneering Partnership to Support Rational Antibacterials Use in Surgical Specialties

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In a unified effort to support surgeons' continuing skills development in the Philippines through knowledge sharing and training, Pfizer Philippines and the Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS) have come together in a landmark partnership, culminating in a ceremonial signing of their MOA.

• The partnership allows Pfizer Philippines Medical Affairs Team and Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS) to work hand-in-hand in conceptualizing Continuing Medical Education (CME) activities in the form of on-demand Learning Modular System (LMS) and Webinars for the society’s members and allied HCP affiliates.

• Through the partnership, the PCS members are expected to gain knowledge on the principles and practice of Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS), the problem of resistance, surgical infections, optimal antibiotic use, and other topics needed to support surgeons' continuing skills development.

Pfizer Philippines Country Manager So-Myung Lim (Left) and PCS President Dr. Maria Concepcion C. Vesagas attended the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA)

This strategic three-year collaboration permits Pfizer and PCS to jointly conceive Continuing Medical Education (CME) activities. Benefitting from on-demand Learning Modular System (LMS) and informative webinars, the initiative aims to provide PCS members and associated healthcare professionals with top-tier medical knowledge and training.

Through this partnership, members of PCS will receive insights on a wide array of topics crucial to surgical competencies. These encompass principles and practice of antimicrobial stewardship, the problem of resistance, surgical infections, optimal antibiotic use and other relevant subjects that bolster surgical proficiencies.

The signed landmark partnership was solidified during a ceremonial activity, the document signed by two esteemed leaders in the medical field: Pfizer Philippines Interim Country Medical Director, Dr. Evan N. Payawal, and PCS President, Dr. Maria Concepcion C. Vesagas, and endorsed by Pfizer Country Manager So-Myung Lim

Both PCS and Pfizer Philippines share a harmonized vision for the collaboration, which is in line with their shared objectives of constantly improving surgical healthcare delivery, and propagating scientific knowledge through meaningful educational collaborations with key societies. The alliance is anticipated to to help contribute to drive excellence in patient surgical care and safety.

About the collaboration, Dr. Evan N. Payawal remarked, “This partnership exemplifies the commitment of both institutions to prioritize healthcare innovation and excellence. It's more than a mere collaboration; it's a commitment to the people we serve."

“We in Pfizer Philippines are all extremely proud to launch this important partnership with the Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS) in conceptualizing Continuing Medical Education (CME) activities for the benefit of various medical stakeholders and personnel. We have always believed in the power of education to capacitate and better equip individuals on their roles and advocacies, and definitely, the partnership we are announcing today is a testament of the vision and leadership of Pfizer and PCS in the country” said Pfizer Philippines Country Manager So-Myung Lim.

Dr. Maria Concepcion C. Vesagas echoed these sentiments, stating, “In a constantly evolving medical landscape, it’s essential to remain at the forefront of knowledge. Through this partnership, our members will have access to vital resources, ensuring that we continue to deliver outstanding patient care. "

“This newly formed partnership is in sync with this year’s 79th PCS Annual Clinical Congress theme of “Collaborations and Innovations in the Era of Global Surgery”. Definitely a step forward to achieving our set goals.” added by Dr. Vesagas

In these unprecedented times, partnerships like these not only underscore the commitment to excellence but also fortify the foundations for a healthier tomorrow.

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About Pfizer: Breakthroughs That Change Patients’ Lives

At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines.

Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world's premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 170 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.Pfizer.com. In addition, to learn more, please visit us on www.Pfizer.com and follow us on Twitter at @Pfizer and @Pfizer News, LinkedIn, YouTube and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Pfizer.