Protecting Patient Health with Gabay Generika

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Improper use of medicines has long been a global health issue . It occurs when patients do not have access to safe, effective, and affordable medication that meet their clinical needs at the right time, and at the right dosage. According to a World Health Organization study, Promoting Rational Use of Medicines: Core Components, over 50% of all medicines are prescribed, dispensed, or sold inappropriately while 50% of patients fail to take them correctly. As a response to this situation, Generika Drugstore now provides Gabay Generika services to help promote the proper use of medicine and to address health concerns of Filipinos ensuring that their health and well-being is well taken care of. 

Under Gabay Generika, patient health is protected through the PLUS services that Generika provides. Filipinos who cannot avail of paid check-up in hospitals and clinics can have free medical consultations in Generika Drugstore branches with scheduled physicians. Under their guidance, patients can better understand their health problems and be provided with the correct treatment plan – including a prescription if medication is deemed necessary. 

Patients purchasing medicine in any Generika Drugstore will be assisted by knowledgeable and well-trained pharmacists. With their help, a patient has the opportunity to clarify anything about the medicines they are about to buy. This service of patient counselling in the context of proper medication intake is intended to support a physician’s treatment plan, helping ensure that the patient fully understands the medicine and prescription given to them. Through this advice, patients can also learn the importance of following the right dosage and medication schedule as indicated by their doctor. 

The core of Gabay Generika’s patient protection lies with the Gamot Guide, a new pharmacy service that is only being offered by Generika. It is the first ever in the industry and it serves as a tool for customers to help them understand how to take their medicines and ensure compliance of medication. The information written on the Gamot Guide consists of a drug’s generic name, dosing schedule and instructions, storage requirements, possible side effects, and helpful do’s and don’ts about the specific drug. Each purchased medication will have its own printed Gamot Guide, whose specific contents can be adjusted by the pharmacist depending on the patient’s prescription. The guide will be explained by the pharmacists so that patients will fully understand the best and safest ways to use their prescribed medicines.

Being a community drugstore that advocates for the protection and well-being of its customers, Generika will continue to provide innovative and meaningful value adding services for the overall health and well-being of Filipinos.

Generika Drugstore is in its 13th year of serving the Filipino People by providing access to safe, effective, and affordable generic drugs. This legacy of protecting patient health is continued through the new Gabay Generika PLUS services, affirming its commitment to bridge the healthcare gap in the country. Now thanks to free medical consultations, patient counselling, and the Gamot Guide, more and more Filipinos are educated on proper medicine intake and can safely purchase and use their medication whenever they need it the most. 

To learn more about Generika Drugstore, simply visit   "http://www.generika.com.ph/" http://www.generika.com.ph/ or like its Facebook page at  "https://www.facebook.com/Generika.com.ph" https://www.facebook.com/Generika.com.ph.

Beyond the dining plate : A quick look at the story of food, from farm to plate to landfill

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For most of us, little to no thought goes into how our food got onto our plates.

Let’s start with your typical chicken: we go to the grocery, buy the plumpest frozen poultry we can find, then take it back to the kitchen to be fried, stewed, or roasted for tonight’s dinner. Simple enough, right?

Food is a source of nutrition, and therefore ingredients should be wholesome and nourishing. Knowing the whole story of where your food comes from may make you want to reconsider your choices.

Hidden dangers

Conventional food production techniques are designed to boost yield so farms can deliver more meat and more crops. ‘Quantity’, however, isn’t necessarily synonymous to ‘quality’.

In the case of crops, a number of synthetic pesticides are applied to fields to eliminate insects, fungi, and rodents so that farms can stock supermarkets with smooth, almost flawless-looking fruits and vegetables.

Sadly, these toxic substances are absorbed by the plants, which in turn introduce harmful chemicals to the food that goes into our bodies. That doesn’t take into account how pesticides poison harmless organisms living on farmlands, while also spreading to nearby bodies of water, grazing fields, and human settlements through wind and runoff.

Many farms today also think little of their methods when it comes to raising chickens for their eggs and meat. Apart from being confined in tiny, cramped cages throughout their lives, these animals are fed with a diet they don’t normally eat like soy, and are given antibiotics to keep them alive amidst unsanitary and inhumane living conditions.

Additionally, egg-laying hens are constantly exposed to artificial lighting and are injected with hormones so they produce as many eggs as they can instead of letting them do so within the means of their natural cycle.

This treatment is not only cruel and against animal welfare standards. Because of all the drugs pumped into the chickens, their meat and eggs are saturated with harmful substances that endanger consumers. Their waste also becomes contaminated with hazardous toxins that threaten human health and the environment when disposed.

Sustainable and healthy

Food is critical not only to our health but also the welfare of our planet. If we truly want us to live full, healthy lives, it’s vital that we change the narrative of what we eat.

As consumers, we can do this by supporting companies that practice sustainable and humane farming. Healthy Options, for instance, ensures food quality by sourcing ingredients from farms that only use natural growing methods.

Healthy Options also ensures that all their chickens are able to roam freely in clean, spacious, and weather-protected grounds so they can forage for bugs and worms—organisms that chickens are designed to eat—on top of organic and natural grain feed.

Unlike factory-farmed chickens, these birds also get to enjoy the light of day while living life as intended by nature. With living conditions maximized for good health and proper egg production, they don’t have to be artificially stimulated or given drugs.

The result is healthy and happy chickens that people can eat without worry.

Check this out .... Know the Whole Story  http://www.healthyoptions.com.ph/"http://www.healthyoptions.com.ph/

Healthy Options is committed to helping people attain and maintain vitality and wellness through superior products. Stores are located in key cities nationwide, including Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Mandaluyong City; Rustan’s Supermarket, Makati City; Festival Supermall, Filinvest, Alabang; Ayala Center, Cebu City; SM City, North EDSA, Quezon City; SM City Manila; SM Megamall B, EDSA, Mandaluyong City; SM Pampanga; SM Mall of Asia, Pasay; SM Clark; Bonifacio High Street, Taguig; Trinoma, North EDSA, Quezon City; SM City Davao; Rockwell, Makati; SM City Cebu; Greenbelt 5, Ayala Center, Makati City; Commerce Mall, Alabang Town Center; Abreeza Mall, Davao City; Robinsons Magnolia, Quezon City; Excelsior, Eastwood City, Quezon City; SM Aura, Taguig; Century City, Makati; Glorietta 2, Makati City; Centrio Mall, Cagayan de Oro; Kidzania, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; and now at Solenad 3, Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

Chef Anton Amoncio, the Asian Food Channel's Asian Food Hero

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Congratulations to Chef Anton Amoncio, Grand Winner of the Asian Food Channel's Asian Food Hero.

Held in Singapore recently, Chef Anton was chosen from among chefs coming from different Asian countries. He was accompanied to Singapore by Boy Abunda, President and Chief Executive Officer of Asian Artists Agency where Chef Anton is a talent. Also with them is Gasper Gozo, General Consultant of Asian Artists Agency.

As part of the prize, Chef Anton becomes a new host for several programs shown on Asian Food Channel (AFC) and The Food Network channel.

Chef Anton was chosen as one of the finalists when he presented videos of his signature Filipino dishes “Tinola” and “Fried Chicken Adobo sa Gata”.

27 - year old, Chef Anton is a graduate of the Center for Culinary Arts in Quezon City.

Chef Anton owns and runs Antojos, a Filipino specialty restaurant in Quezon City.

During the competition and awarding, Chef Anton Amoncio, Grand Winner of Asian Food Channel's Asian Food Hero is with his manager, Boy Abunda, President and Chief Executive Officer of Asian Artists Agency. Photo taken after Chef Anton won Asian Food Hero contest held in Singapore 

Sanofi Pasteur Presents Updates and Truth About the Dengue Vaccine

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Sanofi Pasteur, the world leader in human vaccines, recently presents updates and truth about Dengvaxia, known as Dengue Vaccine. Sanofi Pasteur has invested in the research and development of a dengue vaccine for about 20 years.

Dengue is a high-profile and ongoing public health concern in the Philippines. During the press conference on Friday, October 21, held at The Dusit Thani Manila Hotel, Makati City, Sanofi Pasteur, presents full data and updates on dengue.

Dengue cases rose to epidemic levels in 2015 with an average of 220 reported cases per day.

The first known epidemic of severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever anywhere in the world was recorded in Manila in 1953.

By the mid-1970s, severe dengue had become a leading cause of hospitalization and death among children in the region. Between 2004 and 2010, the Philippines experienced the seventh highest number of dengue cases in the world according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

2016 data suggests an increasing trend in reported dengue cases

In 2013, DOH reported 204,906 cases of dengue, the highest number recorded since the establishment of the National Dengue Prevention and Control Program in 1993. More than 200,000 dengue cases were reported in the Philippines in 2015, 80,000 more than were reported in 2014. In both September and October 2015, the number of reported cases rose above the epidemic threshold. 

Although the number of reported dengue cases slightly decreased in 2014, the 2015 data suggest an increasing trend in cases in the coming years. Recent data gathered by the Department of Health from January to 24 September this year shows an increase of 11.5 percent year on year across the country, with total dengue infections at 142,247 compared to 127,525 last year and 604 recorded fatalities 

Based on Philippine surveillance data collected between 2011 and 2015, an average of 220 dengue cases were reported in the country every day. In 2015, almost 50% of reported cases came from three most urbanized regions: Region 3 (17.6%), Region 4 (17.3%), and the National Capital Region (12.6%). Cases stemming from all four serotypes of dengue were reported in 2015.

Disease burden: US$345 million per year

The economic burden of dengue in the Philippines is substantial. A study published in 2015 estimated that between 2008 and 2012, clinically diagnosed dengue cases in the Philippines were associated with a direct medical cost (in 2012 US dollars) of $345 million annually. 

The study calculated the average cost of treatment per case to be $409, representing 16% of the Philippines’ 2012 per capita GDP. Sixty-five percent of cases were treated in inpatient hospitals, representing 90% of direct costs.

In addition to dengue’s burden on a household, the illness can adversely impact a country’s economy through a loss of productivity caused by the illness and pre-mature death, increased healthcare costs and a possible reduction in tourism.

Seasonality and global climate change

Dengue has become a year-round threat in the Philippines. However, data suggests that the number of dengue cases increases one to two months after the onset of the rainy season, resulting in a peak of dengue cases between July and November each year. 

The Philippines is severely affected by extreme weather events and is vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Vector-borne diseases like dengue may be particularly sensitive to both periodic fluctuations and sustained changes in global and local climates. Additionally, a study examining data from eight Asian countries including the Philippines over 18 years revealed a strong correlation between regional dengue epidemics and elevated temperatures associated with El Niño.

DoH implements a step-wise public vaccination program in 2016

The Department of Health announced on 4 January 2016 that one million (1M) nine-year-old Filipinos enrolled in government schools in Region 3, Region 4-A and the National Capital Region will be the first beneficiaries of the government-procured dengue vaccine. 

In a recent dengue vaccine cost-effectiveness study performed by Professor Hilton Lam of the UP-National Institutes of Health, a nationwide annual routine vaccination of nine-year olds starting in 2016 would lead to an estimated 24.2% reduction in dengue cases in the country over a five-year period. This would translate to 775,053 avoided cases of dengue, 502,000 avoided hospitalizations, 22,010 avoided deaths and almost Php 21 billion in avoided cost to society.

With Singapore Tourism Board and Epson Singapore, TANGS and Taff present 庄Zhuang – Home of Singapore Designers, a retail pop-up infusing fashion, technology and art

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With the support of the Singapore Tourism Board and Epson Singapore, this first-of-its-kind retail experience showcases local brands across multiple product categories

Singapore – In support of Singapore’s brands and fashion designers, and to better showcase them to a broader audience, Taff (Textile and Fashion Federation Singapore) has collaborated with local retailer, TANGS, a clear choice given their legacy of supporting local talent.

The resulting collaboration is庄Zhuang – Home of Singapore Designers, a pop up supported by the Singapore Tourism Board and Epson Singapore, bringing fashion, art and technology together to create a unique and engaging retail experience.

Multi-disciplinary artist, Daryl Goh, was commissioned to create Installation Lucid, an art installation that is a celebration of light, color, visuals and design incorporating projection mapping. Materials chosen for the art installation embody translucency, a celebration of light, color and clarity, but with consideration for other elements in its environment, while the projection mapping of moving images are a dynamic display symbolic of fluidity, adaptation and excellence – key conditions of production in design.

As part of the art installation, a rotating collection of outfits designed by local designers will be projected onto a mannequin showcase, and will be updated regularly. The project aims to showcase local designer brands through innovative use of high brightness and ultra-short throw technology for projection mapping, presenting a more immersive shopping experience.

“We are excited to work with TANGS and Taff to showcase projection mapping at a retail mall in Singapore. Through this partnership, we hope to showcase the various possibilities of 3D projection mapping technology and how it can be used to create an immersive and experiential experience for viewers. The collaboration is also part of our efforts to contribute towards the retail scene and support local designers in Singapore,” said Tan May Lin, General Manager (Sales), Epson Singapore.

The pop up was launched last 16 September 2016 and is situated at the fourth floor of TANGS at Tang Plaza, TANGS’ Orchard Road flagship store.

As a complement to the host of Singaporean fashion brands already found on the second floor of TANGS at Tang Plaza, fashion labels selected for 庄Zhuang – Home of Singapore Designers are new to TANGS and positioned as new discoveries for the TANGS fashion customers. Notable names for the introductory phase of the pop up include apparel brands Frontrow by Klarra, Mash Up, Revasseur and Ying The Label, along with accessories from CN Collectiv and handbags by Desti Saint.

The pop up also features a series of award-winning lifestyle brands like Supermama, Desinere and Hinika by Jarrod Lim, uniquely local collectibles from Love SG, Now & Then, The Farm Store and The Little Drom Store, and even local candlemakers Hush Candle and niche perfumery Code Deco, among others.

Throughout its seven month duration, the pop up will see regular updates in its brand mix, with new brands constantly introduced to shoppers to keep them excited and engaged, while retaining selected brands throughout, favorites of locals and tourists alike.

Said Lynette Lee, CEO of Taff, “With the support of the Singapore Tourism Board, Taff is able to showcase Singapore designers prominently on Orchard Road, at TANGS, one of Singapore’s most iconic department stores no less. Taff is proud to be on the forefront of bringing fashion and technology together, in exciting collaborations and partnerships.”

庄Zhuang – Home of Singapore Designers is located at TANGS at Tang Plaza, Level 4 from 16 September 2016 (Fri) until mid April 2017. 

ABOUT TANGS

An icon of Singapore, TANGS is a leading player in the retail industry that has its fingers constantly on the pulse of the ever-changing consumer wants and trends.

With the flagship TANGS at Tang Plaza's transformation completed, Singapore's most distinctive and beloved shopping destination raises the bar in retail, stepping up its role as a curator of a spectrum of exciting Asian as well as international brands, and redefining the shopping experience with a refreshed store concept.

TANGS is present in Singapore and Malaysia with six stores, namely, TANGS at Tang Plaza, TANGS VivoCity, TANGS 1 Utama, TANGS Empire Subang, TANGS Genting and TANGS The Shore, Melaka.

For more information, visit www.tangs.com.

ABOUT TAFF

Textile & Fashion Federation (Taff) is the official association for the textile and fashion industry in Singapore, and plays an active role in the development of the industry representing and supporting members from retail to manufacturing.

The Federation facilitates the growth of local fashion designers and retailers and advocates national pride to ‘Buy & Wear Singapore’. In line with government commitment, Taff is working to position Singapore as a fashion technology hub in Asia by showcasing technological innovation and opportunities for the industry.

Taff further champions programs that build capability, market and expand Singapore’s fashion and textile businesses internationally, and promote environmental sustainability with eco-friendly business practices. With strong local and international networks, Taff is able to raise the visibility of local fashion brands and businesses at home and overseas.

ABOUT EPSON SINGAPORE

Epson is the world's leader in digital imaging solutions. The company’s Singapore operation is also the Regional Headquarters of Seiko Epson Corporation. The company markets and supports Epson printers, scanners, projectors, electronic devices including liquid crystal displays, semiconductors and system devices in South East and South Asia.

Since 1982, Epson has developed a strong presence across major markets in Southeast Asia. Led by the regional headquarters, Epson Singapore Pte Ltd., Epson Southeast Asia spans an extensive network of 10 countries, and is responsible for delivering and supporting Epson’s cutting-edge consumer and business digital imaging products to the customers of these markets through its comprehensive infrastructure of over 360 service outlets, 10 Epson solution centres and 8 manufacturing facilities.http://www.epson.com.sg

ABOUT SINGAPORE TOURISM BOARD

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is a leading economic development agency in tourism, one of Singapore’s key service sectors. Known for partnership, innovation and excellence, STB champions tourism, making it a key economic driver for Singapore. We aim to differentiate and market Singapore as a must-visit destination offering a concentration of user-centric and enriching experiences through the “YourSingapore” brand. 

For more information, visit www.stb.gov.sg orwww.yoursingapore.com or follow us on Twitter @STB_sg (https://twitter.com/stb_sg).