Allianz PNB Life expands coverage for COVID-19 vaccines

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Since the start of the Philippines’ mass vaccination program in March, over a million vaccines have been administered to Filipinos to fight COVID-19. However, slow rollout and low vaccination rates in the country prove that the population still has a long way to go before it can achieve herd immunity to end the pandemic.

So far, the vaccines available and given in the Philippines are Sinovac and AstraZeneca. Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen and Bharat Biotech's Covaxin have also been approved for emergency use. Other vaccines expected to arrive in the coming months are Moderna, Gamaleya’s Sputnik V, Novavax, and those from the World Health Organization’s (WHO) COVAX facility. With these incoming vaccines, the government is expected to ramp up inoculation by the second half of the year to inoculate at least 50 to 70 million Filipinos within 2021.

Despite the variety of safe and effective options available to the public, and the numerous endorsements from health experts and authorities, public anxiety over vaccines persists. And while certain risks may cause concern, the vaccine’s benefits far outweigh them.

Recent data has shown that the four leading countries in terms of vaccination have succeeded in flattening or decreasing cases after inoculating over 40% of their population. In Israel, severe cases and deaths declined rapidly after more than 84% of its elderly population were fully vaccinated in February. This has allowed their authorities to ease up on previous restrictions and for the public to now go mask-free.

“All is well” in building immunity against COVID

At present, Allianz PNB Life is one with the Filipino people in fighting COVID-19. “COVID-19 has posed many different challenges to people’s health and finances. Much like the vaccines available now, Allianz Well! is a timely offer that can protect people from the effects of the pandemic, including but not limited to COVID-19,” said CEO Alexander Grenz.

Through Allianz Well!, customers can get their COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it is available from a preferred healthcare provider. Its Wellness Benefit covers up to Php 10,000 yearly and allows reimbursement for vaccines up to this amount. On top of a quick and easy claims process, the policy fully covers hospitalization and emergency care for COVID-19, along with cancer treatment, dialysis, and organ transplant.

It also offers convenient and reliable care with unlimited, 24/7 expert telemedicine consultation. With an annual plan limit of Php 100 million that’s one of the highest in the country today, it can supplement any existing HMO so you can get treated whenever and wherever by your chosen provider.

“Our policy is tailored to ensure that Filipinos get the best and most comprehensive kind of coverage,” said Grenz. “This is our way of saying that all is well and all should be well because Allianz is with them during COVID-19 and beyond.”

To help ease worries surrounding vaccination, below are answers by the World Health Organization, Department of Health, and Philippine General Hospital to some of the frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccine:

●       What is vaccine efficacy?

Vaccine efficacy is the effectiveness of a vaccine in controlled trials. WHO requires vaccines to have an efficacy rate of at least 50% and ensures they undergo rigorous testing and screening before they are approved. For example, a vaccine with a 50% rate reduces your chances of contracting COVID-19 by 45%. So far, all approved vaccines are 100% effective in preventing severe symptoms, hospitalization, and death due to COVID-19.

●       Does the COVID-19 vaccine have any side effects?

Side effects are common not just in vaccines but other prescription and over-the-counter drugs too. Side effects from vaccines indicate that the body is starting to protect you from the virus. Common ones include fatigue, body pains, fever, chills, and nausea which last only a few days.

●       Who cannot take the vaccine?

Only those who show allergic response to the vaccine after the first dose or its certain components from past treatments should not take it. Individuals who are allergic to other vaccines, immunocompromised, and/or pregnant or breastfeeding mothers with comorbidities should consult their doctor before getting vaccinated. The same goes for those receiving steroids, anticoagulation therapy, and/or antibody-based COVID-19 therapy.

Before taking any important steps regarding your health, it is always best to consult a medical professional. Allianz urges everyone to stay well, informed, and future-proof through the pandemic.

 

About Allianz PNB Life

Allianz PNB Life began its operations in 2001 and is among the major life insurers in the Philippines. Worldwide, Allianz is also considered the most sustainable insurer from 2017 to 2019 according to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index. We are a leading provider of Variable Life products, complemented by a full line of Life protection offerings for individuals and institutions. All our products and services are designed to meet the lifetime financial planning, wealth accumulation, and well-being aspirations of every Filipino Family.

Allianz PNB Life’s main headquarters is in Makati City, the country’s main business district, with eleven business centres strategically located in key cities across the archipelago. As the country’s fastest growing life insurance company for premium income, it continues to secure the health and wealth of Filipinos here and abroad. 

For more information, visit allianzpnblife.ph or facebook.com/allianzpnblifeofficial.

 

 

 

Fatigue Coping Strategies for Healthy Blood and Immunity

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Staying at one place for a long duration of time is not the most ideal for social beings like us, humans. Migrating all of the activities we used to do outside of our home certainly added more stress to already very uncertain times. Given the new normal setup stress, you may have experienced some symptoms of fatigue.

Fatigue is a sensation of constant weariness, tiredness, or lack of energy for physical and/or mental activities. It is a symptom caused by a combination of lifestyle, social, psychological and general wellbeing factors.1 

Department of Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire stated the department’s concern in a Laging Handa public briefing, “After so many months of being quarantined, people feel restless; people feel anxious; they’re irritable.” She expressed that people need to develop a coping mechanism and accept the fact that things will not go back to the way it used to be and start to transition to the new normal.2

Altering your current lifestyle may sound easier said than done, but these 4 easy and yet effective coping strategies might be what you need to keep a healthy blood and immunity.

1.  Taking Short Walks/Light Exercises

It sounds counterintuitive to go on a walk or do light exercises when you’re already feeling tired for most of the day, but mobility is actually an important component in maintaining a healthy wellbeing as an adult.

Scientists found in a study that exercise boosts your energy level, increases strength and endurance. 3  Light exercises and short walks also stimulate the production of endorphins — the chemical that reduces pain and relieves stress. Not only does this improve your mobility, but it also boosts your immunity.

2.  Having the Right Amount of Sleep

Practicing a healthy sleeping schedule is vital so the body can recharge. 4 Your body follows an “internal body clock” known as circadian rhythms which dictate your cycle of sleep, wakefulness, and alertness. This is influenced by external factors like long working hours, shift work, eating habits, and sleep deprivation. 5

It’s helpful to establish a bedtime routine to achieve the right amount of sleep. Simple cues like putting on pajamas, brushing your teeth, and reading a book helps the body adjust and learn that it’s time to sleep and drift off. Stimulants like caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and gadgets should be avoided before bedtime.6

The recommended amount of sleep for adults is at least seven hours and no more than eight hours. Try to limit the difference in your sleeping schedule so your body is consistent with its sleep-wake cycle. 7 Your body is programmed to function through habits. By consistent efforts these can greatly help alleviate the feeling of fatigue.

3. Cutting Down on Caffeine and Alcohol

Alcohol raises the body's level of epinephrine, a stress hormone that generally stimulates the body, which can keep you up at night even when you’re supposed to rest. Your body might also urinate more than you usually do when you consume alcohol, which can disrupt your sleeping pattern. 8  Meanwhile for caffeinated drinks, it’s best to consume those with less to no sugar content. When sugar is processed by the body, it can cause a rapid rise in your blood sugar. The sudden spike and succeeding instant fall can make you feel exhausted and tired .9

Dietary changes are a necessary step to address fatigue since your body runs on the energy that you feed it. If you have a habit of consuming caffeinated drinks or alcohol, you might want to slow down to feel less fatigued.

4. Take Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+) Your Health Blood Ally, With Proper Nutrition and Exercise

Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms in people who are experiencing iron deficiency anemia — which happens when the blood has a lower amount of red blood cells or hemoglobin than normal. It causes the body to feel weak, tired, dizzy, look pale, and experience headaches. 10

When unnoticed, iron deficiency anemia can feel like nothing. But as time progresses, the body becomes more deficient of iron, putting immunity and blood health at stake — which intensifies the symptoms and signs of iron deficiency anemia.

Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+) is an iron supplement with vitamins and minerals that helps to replenish iron stores and increases red blood cell levels in the body for those experiencing iron deficiency anemia. It has ferrous gluconate, a type of iron salt that allows better absorption of iron in the body, Folic acid, and vitamin B12 which are vital for the production of red blood cells and during pregnancy. It also contains Vitamin C which helps improve iron absorption, and Copper sulphate and manganese sulphate that help in the metabolic processes of blood cell production.11 

With proper nutrition, ample exercise, and by taking Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+), you can maintain immunity and keep your blood health at its peak.

Recommended intake is one to two capsules daily, during or after meals, or as prescribed by your doctor.

The new normal has brought endless challenges and difficult hurdles. As advised by the DOH, we have to accept the reality of the new normal and incorporate healthy coping mechanisms for the security of our wellbeing and immunity. Remember to keep your health in check and practice these coping techniques to lessen the possibility of experiencing fatigue. Keep your blood healthy through proper nutrition, exercise and take Multivitamins + Minerals (Sangobion IRON+).

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

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1 “Fatigue.” Medline Plus, a service of the National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003088.htm

2 “DOH cites ways to avoid 'quarantine fatigue'” Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1118873

3 “Effects of chronic exercise on feelings of energy and fatigue: A quantitative synthesis.” Psychological Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.132.6.866

4 “How much sleep do we really need?” Sleep Foundation. sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need.

5 “Circadian Rhythms.” National Institute of General Medical Sciences. https://www.nigms.nih.gov/education/fact-sheets/Pages/circadian-rhythms.aspx

6 “Sleep hygiene tips.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/sleep_hygiene.html

7 “Sleep deprivation and deficiency.” National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/sdd

8 "Pre-sleep drinking disrupts sleep." ScienceDaily. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/01/150117104306.htm

9 “The effect of the interaction between glucose tolerance and breakfasts varying in carbohydrate and fibre on mood and cognition.” National Library of Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1080/10284150600955099

10 “Iron-Deficiency Anemia.” National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/iron-deficiency-anemia.

11 “About-Sangobion.” Sangobion, https://www.sangobion.sg/about-sangobion.

SNAP celebrates Earth Day with simultaneous clean-up drive and tree-planting

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Renewable energy solutions provider SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) Group joins the rest of the world in celebrating Earth Day 2021 through activities that align with the 2021 Earth Day theme, “Restore Our Earth.”

SNAP team members and volunteers participated in the worldwide celebration of Earth Day 2021 with the theme “Restore Our Earth.”

On April 22, SNAP conducted a clean-up drive simultaneous with tree-planting activities in areas surrounding their Magat hydroelectric power plant in Ramon, Isabela; Ambuklao hydroelectric power plant in Bokod, Benguet; and in Binga hydroelectric power plant in Itogon, Benguet.

Despite the controlled number of participants due to COVID-19 safety measures, this year’s clean-up drives were joined by a total of 49 volunteers composed of SNAP employees mostly on lockdown duty, contractors, and local workers/residents of Magat, Ambuklao, and Binga hydroelectric power plant facilities. Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) also took part in the clean-up drive in Benguet. Safety protocols were strictly observed throughout the activity.

Around 250 kilograms of mixed wastes were collected at the Magat crest in Isabela, along the Agno River Estero below the Binga powerhouse in Benguet, and other areas surrounding SNAP facilities. The SNAP-Magat volunteers capped the day with tree-planting and gardening activities as a commemoration of Earth Day 2021. Earlier on March 27, SNAP Group likewise switched off non-essential lights for one hour in observance of Earth Hour.

These annual activities are observed consistently to signify SNAP’s support for better environmental practices as part of its overall environmental sustainability program. “Not despite the pandemic but precisely because of the pandemic, we continue to do as much as we can to promote not only environment-supportive practices but also develop long-term sustainability projects with our host communities. Sooner is better, but it is always a good time to get engaged and do something for our environment to benefit not only the current generation but also the next,” said Mike C. Hosillos, SNAP chief corporate services officer.

SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) is a joint venture of Scatec Solar and Aboitiz Power Corporation (AP). Scatec is a Norway-based leading renewable power producer that delivers affordable and clean energy worldwide. As a long-term player, Scatec develops, builds, owns, and operates solar, wind, and hydro power plants and storage solutions. AP is the holding company of the Philippines-based Aboitiz Group’s investments in power generation, distribution, and retail electricity services. It advances business and communities by providing reliable and ample power supply at a reasonable and competitive price, and with the least adverse effects on the environment and host communities.

SNAP owns and operates the 105-MW Ambuklao and 140-MW Binga hydroelectric power plants in Benguet; the 388-MW Magat hydroelectric power plant on the border of Isabela and Ifugao; and the 8.5-MW Maris hydroelectric power plant in Isabela.

SALAMAT AT SALUDO! May 1 for Every Juan, the Country’s Modern Day Heroes

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Salute to all medical front liners working tirelessly to save lives, delivery riders providing service and convenience day in and day out, teachers adapting to the new modality of learning, men in uniform who ensure everyone’s safety, homemakers who perform equally arduous responsibilities, and every hardworking Pinoy—our heroes of today.

In celebration of Labor Day, CHERRY shows gratitude to the country’s commendable workforce through a Labor Day Promo on May 1, 2021.

During the promo, you may get the Cherry Ion limited edition colors for only P2,999 from P3,700. This is a personal wearable air purifier that releases up to 200 million negative ions (healthy anions). It helps prevent colds, cough, allergy, hay fever, and asthma by getting rid of germs, airborne viruses, dust, and air molds. Also, you may bring home the Cherry Ionizer with Air Purifier and Humidifier for only P3,500 from P4,000. This on the other hand emits up to 300 million negative ions (healthy anions), has 4-stage air purification with 99.98% purification rate, is equipped with 300mL water tank capacity, and even swears to improve quality of sleep.

During these trying times, leaving the house alone is already critical due to the COVID-19 virus. It is, therefore, considered an act of bravery to stay outside for long hours just to be able to answer the call of duty and provide for the family. By the same token, fulfilling duties remotely as well as ensuring that every member of the family is taken good care of are also painstaking responsibilities that deserve similar recognition. Take this chance to laud those you know and give them a memorable Labor Day gift that will help keep them extra protected.

To all the Cherryfic Filipino workers, maraming salamat po!

This promo is available at selected stores within NCR Plus: SM Bicutan, SM Bacoor, SM Dasmarinas, SM Rosario, SM Trece, SM Sta. Rosa, Puregold Tanza, Central Mall Binan, Central Dasma, Victory Mall Caloocan, Quiapo Underpass, Market! Market!, Puregold FTI, Lucky Gold Plaza, SM Fairview, MLCI SM Southmall, MLCI SM Center Las Pinas, MLCI SM City Marikina, MLCI SM City Masinag, CSVI Puregold QI, CSVI SM East Ortigas, CSVI Robinsons Place Antipolo, GIZMO Robinsons Place Manila CM, and GIZMO Fishermall.

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CHERRY is a Philippine-based company offering an extensive variety of products in communication technology, Internet of Things (IoT) system, home, personal, health and pet essentials, creating one ecosystem. Cherry carries an array of brands and services under its belt: Cherry Mobile, Cherry Prepaid, Cherryroam, Cherry Home, and Cherry Pet.

Insight Music releases sleep-inducing album

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Record label Insight Music, alarmed by the rapidly increasing cases of sleeplessness among this country’s adult population, seeks to help insomnia-afflicted Filipinos fall into restful slumber by releasing The Perfect Sleep, a groundbreaking album that effectively induces sleep.

Presented by all-natural sleep supplement DreamWell and composed by brilliant music arranger Ian Joseph Tan, The Perfect Sleep is an hour-long instrumental album that promotes deep and relaxing sleep. It will be available in various streaming platforms including Youtube, Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and iTunes starting April 30.

Ian Joseph Tan

“Way before the pandemic hit the Philippines, a vast number of Filipino adults were already stricken by a different kind of epidemic—sleeplessness,” says Insight Music president and chief creative director Chris Cahilig.

“Sleeplessness, a disorder that is commonly known as insomnia, may not be as deadly as Covid-19 but it is just as critical and devastating to one’s health and well-being. It is during deep slumber, after all, when the body has the opportunity to repair itself and recover so that poor sleep quality or sleep deprivation has severe consequences on the body’s capacity to resist illness,” Cahilig further explains.

A 2019 study by Sleep Cycle disclosed that the Philippines ranks 4th in the world in sleeplessness, averaging just 6 and a half hours of sleep—significantly lower than the recommended amount of 7 to 9 hours per day.

Still another study published by the St. Luke’s Medical Center claims that over 10 million adult Filipinos suffer from insomnia—putting them at risk for cardiovascular issues, cancer, depression, diabetes, as well as other afflictions. Various medical literature, in fact, affirm that lack of sleep renders the body susceptible to the debilitating effects of stress that people undergo on a daily basis.

The Perfect Sleep by DreamWell is designed specifically for listening on those nights when stress, anxiety, or plain restlessness tend to keep people awake way into the wee hours. Indeed, the album is meant to lull them to deep and restful slumber when they need it most.

The Perfect Sleep by DreamWell’s gentle guitar strums and soft beats were carefully constructed to give sleep-deprived listeners a mesmerizing experience they can instantly benefit from. After listening to the music, and enjoying the sleep induced by it, listeners will wake up feeling rested and ready for everything their waking moments might have in store.

The specialty album is the perfect sonic companion to DreamWell, an all-natural dietary supplement designed to promote healthier sleep among its users. Through its unique combination of natural ingredients like Suan Zao Ren, Wu Wei Zi, Fu Ling, and the amino acid GABA, DreamWell relaxes the mind and lulls one to sleep. It also helps bring one to Sleep Stage 3 for deep, quality sleep.

“We’ve seen the impact music can have on sleep,” says Cahilig. “Just search up ‘sleep music’ on YouTube, and you’re bound to find videos and livestreams with millions of views. There’s a real need for sleep music, and we want to serve people by providing that.

“I expect The Perfect Sleep by DreamWell to be a popular playlist of working professionals and even middle-age individuals who are having trouble sleeping. It will certainly help their physical and mental well-being,” he adds.