8 Health Essentials That You Need To Have This Summer

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Summer is in full swing, which means it’s time to make plans with loved ones to enjoy the great outdoors. A day spent outside the home is fun, but the intense heat can affect anyone’s health.

Image by tirachardz on Freepik

Watsons encourages families to stock up on health essentials that can help combat the harmful effects of sun exposure and high temperatures. With over 60 million people affected by El Niño[1], there is a high chance of disease outbreaks. This also causes heat stress and respiratory diseases, among a wide range of health problems.[2]

Since prevention is better than cure, here are the must-haves that the leading health and beauty retailer recommends:

Sunscreen

Sunscreen protects the skin and helps prevent sunburn and premature aging, and more alarming conditions like skin cancer.

When looking for sunscreen, it’s important to choose broad spectrum products that protect the skin from both the Ultraviolet A (UVA) and B (UVB) rays of the sun. Another consideration is the sun protection factor or SPF. This is a number that tells you how long the sun’s UVB rays will turn the skin red after applying sunscreen. Minimal exposure to the sun needs an SPF of 15 or higher, while longer time spent outdoors needs at least 30. It is recommended to use sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outdoors and to reapply every two hours.[3]

Facial mist

Complement sunscreen with a generous spritz of facial mist. This product serves a dual purpose: it hydrates the skin and helps it absorb other products like serums and moisturizers. Facial mists have other benefits depending on the ingredients. Some have essential oils for aromatherapy, while others have antioxidants.[4]

Vitamin C serum

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals that damage the cells. It also controls infections and heals wounds.[5] The vitamin plays an important role this summer: when used as a serum, it can hydrate and brighten the skin, protect against sun damage, and promote collagen production to prevent fine lines and wrinkles.[6]

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is another antioxidant that reduces damage caused by free radicals. It’s also an essential vitamin during the summer because it cares for the skin and hair. Vitamin E creates a protective barrier on the skin’s surface to lock in moisture. Additionally, it supports the scalp and adds shine to hair.[7]

Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that helps make the heart, bones, muscles, and nerves operate at their best.[8] It even regulates body temperature. Thankfully, the mineral is available as a supplement that can be easily bought at health stores.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that helps the immune system. It aids in wound healing, blood clotting, and the optimal functioning of the thyroid. A shortage of zinc may lead to pneumonia, skin changes,[9] and even hair loss.[10] The heat can damage hair so a zinc supplement may help address that.[11]

Collagen

Collagen is a type of protein that helps cells grow, provides a protective layer for organs, and gives elasticity to the skin.[12] It’s also available as oral and topical products that help with signs of aging such as wrinkles and dehydration. These can be caused by the summer heat so it’s advisable to take collagen this summer.

Glutathione

Glutathione is an antioxidant that fights off oxidative stress, which may lead to diseases like diabetes and cancer.[13] Its oral and topical supplements may help lighten dark spots and free radical damage to the skin caused by the sun.[14]

All these health essentials are available at Watsons. The global brand in health and beauty retail offers a complete and wide range of vitamins, supplements, over-the-counter or prescription medicines, personal care products, and other essentials in its network of 1,000+ stores in the Philippines.

Watsons makes the shopping experience more convenient with its added services. Customers can choose Click & Collect Express, where they can purchase online and pick up their orders from their selected store in 30 minutes or less. They may also try the Home Delivery Express, which delivers orders right to their doorstep within three hours.

“Filipinos are making the most out of the summer by spending more time outdoors or traveling. The right health products can help them ease their worries so they can focus on celebrating and enjoying the season. Let Watsons remove the burden of shopping by visiting our wide network of stores and availing of Click & Collect Express and Home Delivery Express,” says Jared De Guzman, Watsons Customer Director.

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About Watsons

Watsons is part of the Health and Beauty Store chain of A.S Watson, the largest health, beauty, cosmetics, and perfumery retailer in the world. Today, Watsons H&B Asia is the leading health and beauty chain in the continent with successful operations in 13 markets. In 2002, A.S. Watson Group joined hands with SM Prime Holdings Inc., the Philippines' leading shopping mall developer. The partnership brought about the first Watsons stores in SM Megamall and The Podium (Ortigas).

Today, Watsons operates 1000+ stores in the Philippines serving more than 250,000 customers per day. Watsons strives to ensure that its customers get the best value for their money through monthly promotions, special offers, and continuous consumer marketing programs. Each Watsons store houses nothing but the best brands from top manufacturers all over the world and also carries its own competitively priced, high-quality private labels and brands. With more than 1,000 brands ranging from medicines, cosmetics, and fragrances to personal care items and general merchandise, Watsons Your Personal Store delivers only the best health, wellness, and beauty solutions to each and every customer.

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^[1] El Niño Affects More Than 60 Million People. (2016, April). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/el-ni%C3%B1o-affects-more-than-60-million-people. Accessed 11 May 2023.

^[2] El Niño Affects More Than 60 Million People. (2016, April). World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/el-ni%C3%B1o-affects-more-than-60-million-people. Accessed 11 May 2023.

^[3] All About Sunscreen. (Last updated 2022, Jul). Skin Cancer Foundation. https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/. Accessed 3 May 2023.

^[4] The 16 Best Facial Mists for Every Skin Type. (Last updated 2022, Sep 26). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/best-facial-mist. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[5] Vitamin C. (Last reviewed 2023, Mar). Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-c/. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[6]  11 Reasons to Add Vitamin C Serum to Your Skin Care Routine. (Last updated 2023, Feb 3). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/vitamin-c-serum-benefits. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[7] How Vitamin E Can Benefit Your Hair. (Updated 2019, Mar 8). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/vitamin-e-for-hair. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[8] ​​Magnesium. (Last reviewed 2023, Mar). Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/magnesium/. Accessed 3 May 2023.

^[9]  Zinc and your health. (Last reviewed 2021, Mar). Healthdirect Australia. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/zinc. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[10]  The 8 Best Supplements for Hair Growth, According to a Dietitian. (Last reviewed 2023, Feb 23). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-vitamins-hair-growth. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[11] The 8 Best Supplements for Hair Growth, According to a Dietitian. (Last reviewed 2023, Feb 23). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-vitamins-hair-growth. Accessed 4 May 2023.

^[12]  Collagen. (Last reviewed 2022, May 23). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23089-collagen. Accessed 5 May 2023.

^[13]  Glutathione Benefits. (Updated 2023, Apr 18). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/glutathione-benefits. Accessed 5 May 2023.

^[14] Benefits and Side Effects of Glutathione in Skincare. (2023, Apr 4). Healthnews. https://healthnews.com/beauty/skin-care/glutathione-for-skincare/. Accessed 5 May 2023.

Disney’s only licensed Filipino artist stages one-man show in Manila

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The Fine Art of Rodel Gonzalez, a Manila Art Show grand exhibition for the first and only Filipino artist officially licensed to paint Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars artworks, finally lands in the Philippines. The exhibition will be held at COLLAB Sheraton Manila Hotel at Newport World Resorts on June 3, 2023 at 5pm. Gonzalez’ grand exhibition follows a string of international sold out shows in the US and Japan. Manila Art Show presents opportunities for the Filipino public, art collectors, and the media to appreciate these works of art up close or even bring home a piece from the collection.

The Manila Art Show of Rodel Gonzalez is presented by Newport World Resorts and Sheraton Manila Hotel. The collection is curated and organized by Kartini Asia Gallery with special participation of Uniquecorn Strategies.

“It is high time that an international Filipino artist, at the caliber of Rodel Gonzalez, becomes well known in this country”, quips Newport World Resorts President and CEO Kingson Sian.

Gonzalez was first accredited by Disney 15 years ago in 2008 to reproduce the media giant’s iconic characters and scenarios through his paintings. Known for his dry-brush technique and having a keen eye for color, form, and composition, his detailed artworks have been sold across Disney Theme Parks, Cruise Lines, and art galleries in Japan, North America, and Europe.

“We are proud that the works of Rodel Gonzalez have found a home within Newport World Resorts,” Sian adds. As a premier lifestyle and entertainment destination, Newport World Resorts champions Filipino artists and the performing arts through various initiatives including the long-running, all-Filipino hit musical “Ang Huling El Bimbo”, a brainchild of Sian’s.

The Manila Art Show will display and auction off over a hundred art pieces featuring popular Star Wars characters Yoda, the Stormtroopers, Darth Vader; Marvel Cinematic Universe fan favorites: Iron Man and Spiderman; and Disney princesses Elsa, Cinderella, and many others. The paintings are done in varying sizes and mediums, such as Acrylic on Black Paper, Acrylic on Canvas, Acrylic on Gesso Board, Oil on Canvas, Oil on Gesso Board, Oil on Aluminum, and Giclee on Canvas.

For inquiries, please contact Ria Malvar at riamalvar@yahoo.com or 09266899014 or 8771717 and Kathryn Joy Jeruta kathryn.jeruta@newportworldresorts.com or 09178728586.

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ABOUT RODEL GONZALEZ

Rodel Gonzalez is born into a family of artists, which catalyzed his early exposure to many forms of art through the teachings of his father, Rick Gonzalez, and grandfather, Felix Gonzalez, then both painters. At the age of nine, Gonzalez’s passion for arts began to flourish as he delved into learning its elements and principles. Gonzalez academically reinforced his knowledge of art as he majored in painting at the University of Sto Tomas and earned a degree in Interior Design from the Philippines School of Interior Design.

The artistry he’s been enriching at a young age found its favor in the field of music. In 1985, Gonzalez co-founded the premiere OPM band, Side A, that amassed various hit songs and brought the band to its icon status today. For decades, Gonzalez wielded his creative skills in music as a songwriter and former lead vocalist of the band.

With enthusiasm to establish a more profound way to express art, in 2002 Gonzalez pursued Fine Arts that later put him in an exclusive and international position as a licensed Disney and Lucas Films artist in 2008.

The Manila Art Show of Rodel Gonzalez is presented by Newport World Resorts at COLLAB 2F Sheraton Manila Hotel. The collection is curated and organized by Nina Malvar, President and CEO of Kartini Asia Gallery with special participation of Uniquecorn Strategies. Kartini Asia Gallery is located at the Palms Country Club in Alabang.

PascualLab: Spreading #PascualLove For Over Seven Decades

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On its 77^th year of bringing quality, family-friendly health and wellness products to Filipinos, Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab) continues to spread #PascualLove, reaffirming its commitment to pursue its vision of Strong, Healthy Families.

One of the top-of-mind pharmaceutical companies in the Philippines ¹ 

celebrates 77 years of delivering quality and family-friendly health and wellness products

Pioneering Innovations

Since it was founded in 1946 to help address the health needs of Filipinos during the post-war era, PascualLab has been constantly at the forefront of providing quality health innovations through its products. Among its purposeful innovations are Vitex negundo L. Lagundi Leaf (Ascof Lagundi)*, the first and the No. 1 Lagundi cough remedy in the market², and WellGreens, a line of premium organic supplements that go through a 13-step quality assurance process and that are certified pure organic by the EU and USDA, certified for Good Agricultural Practices by the Department of Agriculture, and Halal by the Islamic Da’wah Council of the Philippines.

Quality and Care At The Heart of Our Service

Beyond purposeful innovations, quality and care have always been at the heart of PascualLab, creating health products that suit various health and lifestyle needs such as top adult Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) brand–Poten-Cee Vitamin C. ¹ Poten-Cee offers variants from adult to pedia as well as specific variants to suit people with sensitive stomachs, busy lifestyles,  and those watching their blood sugar.  One of Poten-Cee's newer variants include Poten-Cee Zn Advance (Ascorbic acid + Zinc + Cholecalciferol) that has the ideal combination of Vitamin C, Zinc, and Vitamin D, to help boost immunity.

This year, PascualLab is introducing Poten-Cee + Collagen’s (Poten-Cee + C’s) newest variant, Marine Collagen. Poten-Cee + C Marine Collagen has Sodium Ascorbate³ (Vitamin C in non-acidic format) and Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen sourced from fish.⁴

Vitamin C is essential for collagen production⁵ while Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen helps reduce wrinkles and improve skin hydration and firmness.⁶

Making Health Easier From Our Family To Yours

Along the lines of oral health, PascualLab, is also one of the pioneers in introducing a  mouthrinse with Stabilized Chlorine Dioxide, OraCare Mouth Rinse. OraCare Mouth Rinse  helps keep the mouth healthy, along with brushing and flossing, with regular use. Now, OraCare Mouth rinse’s no sting formulation makes gargling easier, more affordable and available to family members*** with its’ ”Buy More, Save More”, Buy 1 Take 1 promo.****

#PascualLove

From purposeful innovations to quality products that support people with various lifestyle needs, PascualLab continues to spread #PascualLove, making being healthy easier and more natural for Filipinos.

For more information, visit www.pascuallab.com, follow us on IG and FB @PascualLaboratories, Inc.

*IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.

**"MAHALAGANG PAALALA: ANG POTEN-CEE + C AY HINDI GAMOT AT HINDI DAPAT GAMITING PANGGAMOT SA ANO MANG URI NG SAKIT"

***Mouthwash is not recommended for children less than 6 years old.

****Per DOH-FDA CCHUHSRR Permit No. 0307 s 2023, valid until November 10, 2023.

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Reference:

¹IQVIA 2022 Data

²FDA-approved packaging

³Hiatt A, Ferruzi M, Taylor L, et al. Deliquescence Behavior and Chemical Stability of Vitamin C Forms (Ascorbic Acid, Sodium Ascorbate, and Calcium Ascorbate ) and Blends. International Journal of Food Properties. 2011; 14(6) 1330-1348. DOI: 10.1080/10942911003650338.

Vitamin C. Micronutrient Information Center. Linus Pauling Institute. Oregon State University Website. https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/vitamin-C. Updated: 2023. Accessed: March 8, 2023.

⁴Gelsea K, Poschl E, Aigner T. Collagens—structure, function, and biosynthesis. Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2003; 55: 1531– 1546. DOI:10.1016/j.addr.2003.08.002

⁵Pullar J, Carr A, Vissers M. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017; 9(8): 866. DOI: 10.3390/nu9080866

⁶.Campos P, Franco R, Kakuda L, et al. Oral Supplementation with Hydrolyzed Fish Cartilage Improves the Morphological and Structural Characteristics of the Skin: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study. Molecules. 2021; 26(4880): 1-15. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26164880

Philippines to Welcome First International Elephant House Cafe, the “Birthplace” of Harry Potter, in Greenhills Mall, San Juan

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Harry Potter enthusiasts in the Philippines have a reason to rejoice as The Elephant House, a renowned Scottish authors' café revered as the "birthplace" of Harry Potter, is set to open its inaugural international branch outside of Edinburgh. The highly anticipated establishment will find its home in the vibrant heart of the new Greenhills Mall, offering Filipino fans a unique experience steeped in literary history.

A magical partnership. Ortigas Malls and Visum Ventures signed the official contract to bring The Elephant House Cafe, the “Birthplace” of Harry Potter, Edinburgh, to the new GH Mall. (L-R) Arch. Renee Bacani, Ortigas Malls Vice President. Jose Emmanuel Jalandoni, Ortigas Land President and Chief Executive Officer, San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora, John Michael Hilton, Visum Ventures Chief Executive Officer, Andrew McRae, Elephant House Int'l Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, and. David Taylor, Owner of the Elephant House Cafe and Project Principal, The Elephant House Greenhills.

Located in San Juan City, Greenhills Mall has long been a haven for hobby stores catering to collectors with a wide range of interests. Here, enthusiasts can explore a vast selection of treasures, including toys, figurines, trading cards, and K-pop photo cards. Surrounding the mall, a bustling array of restaurants and cafes awaits, offering an enticing variety of cuisines to suit every taste. Come December 2023, it will proudly host the first International Elephant House Café in the Philippines, adding a touch of enchantment to the already vibrant shopping and dining scene.

“We‘re beyond excited for Greenhills Mall to be the home of The Elephant House in the Philippines. Greenhills Mall has always supported the many interests and hobbies of our shoppers, and the Harry Potter fandom will soon experience the magic themselves,” says Arch. Renee Bacani, Vice President of Ortigas Malls.

The Elephant House, in collaboration with retail brand Museum Context, has formed a groundbreaking partnership with Philippine restaurant group Visum Ventures. This marks the first international venture for Elephant House under its Elephant House International brand. The renowned Museum Context, located on the vibrant and picturesque Victoria Street in Edinburgh—a beloved destination for Potter enthusiasts due to its resemblance to Diagon Alley—will soon be accessible to Harry Potter fans of all ages.

Elephant House owner David Taylor and retail entrepreneur Andrew McRae, creator and curator of unique private label products and officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise available through his Museum Context stores, launched their partnership in December 2022. Scottish food producers are set to benefit from the enterprise which will see unique Elephant House blend coffee, teas, and menus featuring tried and tested recipes alongside Scottish produce such as Walker’s shortbread, Loch Fyne smoked salmon and Barr’s Irn Bru.

Since its opening in 1995 in Scotland, The Elephant House has evolved into a renowned tourist destination, captivating fans who revel in the world of Harry Potter. Inside, the enchantment extends with an array of officially licensed Harry Potter merchandise provided by Museum Context, alongside a plethora of elephant-themed accents. It's a unique haven where enthusiasts can connect over their mutual adoration for the beloved series. Guests can indulge in the cafe's delightful offerings, including the distinct Elephant House blend coffee, teas, and scrumptious Scottish cuisine. In the Philippines, it will faithfully replicate the menu and ambiance. As night falls, the cafe will unveil an additional delight—a whisky bar—to cater to the nocturnal visitors. Undoubtedly, with the support of Visum Ventures, this flagship store will become a must-visit pilgrimage site for Potterheads seeking an immersive magical experience.

The future home of Elephant House. Filipino Potterheads will be able to experience the The Elephant House, the “birthplace” of Harry Potter, Edinburgh at GH Mall in December.

Visum Ventures, a Philippines-based company, has built an impressive line-up of food and beverage brands, including popular ones like Koomi, Oh My Greek, ZIG, and new brands like Salt & Ice and Crown Street Kitchen. Led by Founder and CEO John-Michael Hilton, it has also formed partnerships with renowned brands such as Tsokolateria, Bebang, No.1 Malatang, and T2. During a visit to Edinburgh on February 28, Hilton signed an exclusive agreement, solidifying Visum Ventures' rights to introduce Elephant House International in the Philippines.

“Our portfolio is expanding with the exciting addition of Elephant House International. This franchise will offer Filipinos and tourists a unique and appealing experience, combining Harry Potter fandom, immersive ambiance, and merchandise sales,” says Hilton. He added that the “Philippines has a flourishing cafe culture, a local customer base, and tourist population seeking a distinctive and unforgettable cafe experience.”

The Elephant House International CEO and co-founder, Andrew McRae said: “We are thrilled to sign our first partnership with an organization that has the caliber and track record of Visum Ventures and underlines the international appeal of the one-of-a-kind brand experience we have created. Filipino consumers are always looking for new and exciting food and beverage options, and The Elephant House offer of innovative products and experiences has the potential to do extremely well in this market. Our range of exclusive and niche products are not available in other retail stores which gives us a unique selling proposition that will surely stand out in a crowded retail market.”

The arrival of The Elephant House in Greenhills Mall signifies a momentous achievement for Ortigas Malls, as they consistently strive to provide Filipinos with exceptional experiences. The profound impact of the Harry Potter series, encompassing both the books and movies, has touched the lives of countless individuals. Now, from December 15 onwards, they can immerse themselves in a touch of magic right in Greenhills.

This is just one of the many concepts that Greenhills Mall will offer. Be sure to stay tuned via Greenhills Mall’s Facebook (@greenhillsshoppingcenter) and Instagram (@greenhillsph) pages to see more exciting concepts in the future.

For more information on The Elephant House and updates on other activities, download the Ortigas Malls app and register for the Ortigas Community Card to enjoy exclusive perks.

Stars dazzle as the official press conference for “Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile” held at Puregold's Convention

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The stars shone bright at the recent Tindahan ni Aling Puring Sari-sari Store Negosyo Convention, Puregold’s annual celebration of small business owners across the country. Among the many exciting events lined up for participants, one notable highlight was the official press conference for “Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile,” which took place on the first day.

Producer and award-winning filmmaker Chris Cahilig spoke on the behind the scenes workings of the series.

In attendance was award-winning filmmaker and producer Chris Cahilig, who gave the welcome remarks, while director Victor Villanueva both entertained and inspired the audience as he later related his experiences behind the scenes.

“Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile” is the latest retailtainment offering from the Puregold Channel on YouTube, and came in the wake of “GV Boys” and “Ang Babae sa Likod ng Face Mask”. These online series allow Puregold to reach out to young digital natives looking to connect with classic Filipino stories.

The series revolves around the story of Bryce (Wilbert Ross), a young gamer taking his first uneasy steps into the world of dating with virtual wingman Angge (Yukii Takahashi) by his side.

Yukii Takahashi stars as Angge, the virtual wingman of Bryce.

At the press conference, Wilbert Ross and Yukii Takahashi conveyed their own musings on the story, and showed how onscreen chemistry can translate into real-time attraction as they charmed the audience. The dashing Wilbert especially impressed attendees with a song number during the intermission.

 The multi talented Wilbert Ross sang for the crowd in attendance during the event.

The supporting cast of “Ang Lalaki”—Kat Galang (Genski), Migs Almendras (Ketch), Marissa Sanchez (Bessie), Star Orjaliza (Yaya Aimee), Moi Marcampo (Chili Anne), TJ Valderrama (Cyrus), and Anjo Resurreccion (Jerry)—were also around to field questions during the open forum.

Big surprises awaited participants at the press conference. Grocery packs worth P2,500 each were raffled off, followed by grand prizes such as brand-new smartphones and laptops.

All in all, the press conference for “Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile” turned out to be as fun and exciting as the show itself. 

Vincent Co, President of Puregold Price Club Inc., expressed his satisfaction with the proceedings. “We are always delighted by the chance to entertain our fellow Filipinos,” said Co. “And we’ve been able to do that with the help of the hard-working cast and crew of ‘Ang Lalaki sa Likod ng Profile.’ We hope everyone enjoyed the chance to see them up close and personal at this press conference.”

Do you want FREE entertainment? Subscribe now to Puregold Channel on YouTube. For more updates, like @puregold.shopping on Facebook, follow @puregold_ph on Instagram and Twitter, and @puregoldph on TikTok.