First Philippine Hospital on U.S. Soil Opens in Guam

TMC President & CEO Dr. Alfredo R.A. Bengzon, GRMC CEO Margaret A. Bengzon, Guam Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo and Guam Governor Eddie Calvo with other GRMC officials and special guests during the Ribbon-cutting ceremony

Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC), the first Filipino-owned hospital in United States soil, held its official grand opening on Monday, July 20, 1015. Majority owned and operated by premier health institution The Medical City (TMC), GRMC is the latest addition to TMC’s growing network of hospitals and clinics.

More than 600 guests from Guam, across Micronesia and from the Philippines turned out to celebrate the opening of the first private hospital in Guam. The 130-bed acute care facility represents an investment of $240 million by the Philippine-based TMC.

TMC President and CEO Dr. Alfredo R.A. Bengzon and other members of TMC’s senior management graced the opening ceremony. Also present were Guam Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo and Guam Governor Eddie Calvo. During his speech, Dr. Bengzon spoke about the perseverance and faith it took them to overcome the obstacles and realize their dream to build the hospital located in Dededo, Guam. He likewise emphasized the commitment it represents to the people of Guam.“GRMC is a gift of The Medical City and the Filipino people to the people of Guam. I encourage the residents of Guam to embrace TMC’s service philosophy of Patient Partnership, one that moved the patient from the periphery to center stage, defining for him a role as equal and empowered patient in the pursuit of his health,” said Dr. Bengzon.

TMC President & CEO Dr. Alfredo R.A. Bengzon, Surgeon and GRMC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michael W. Cruz, and Guam Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo

For her part, GRMC CEO Margaret Bengzon welcomed the guests and thanked all the people who worked hard to make the event possible. “We must now look ahead and we need to get started on the real work, providing quality health care for the people of Guam,” she said. Bordallo, on the other hand, underscored the importance of having a new hospital in Guam that will save both the financial and emotional burden of having to seek off island medical care.

GRMC CEO Margaret A. Bengzon

In 2010, TMC announced that it would be part owner and full operator of the first private hospital in Guam. GRMC’s services will be aligned with TMC’s centers of excellence and the Region’s specific health profile, featuring wellness, cardiology, medical oncology, endocrinology, pulmonology, neurology and other medical and surgical subspecialties. TMC’s unique value proposition of patient empowerment and partnership will enliven all programs and services. Even before the formal opening of the hospital, Guam residents have begun to experience TMC’s brand of healthcare. GRMC physicians have been seeing patients at the GRMC Specialty Care Center since September 2014. Dr. Bengzon and Governor Calvo capped the ceremony with an impromptu rendition of "The Impossible Dream,” signifying that with GRMC now in full operations, they have reached the unreachable star.

Climate change, E-titling, Standardization of documents and practices tackled at TOPS-LRA Summit

MANILA, Philippines – Climate change, geological hazards, E-titling, computerized landregistration, the Uniform Loan And Mortgage Agreement (ULAMA) and the real estate industry’s contributions to the national economy topbill the agenda for the 2nd TOPS-LRA Summit on Tuesday, July 28, 2015 at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City.

The one-day event collaborative project of The Organization of Property Stakeholders Inc. (TOPS) and the Land Registration Authority (LRA), aspires to provide new solutions and strategies to future challenges that might slow down the development of the property sector in the country.

With the theme “Measuring Our Gains and Meeting the Challenges Ahead,” the summit will have experts and leaders such as Mr. Oscar Victor Lizardo of Project NOAH, Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Commissioner Kim Jacinto-Henares of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, Atty. Darlene Berberabe of PAG-IBIG, Atty. Chito Cruz of the National Housing Authority and Atty. Tony Bernardo of the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB) as featured speakers and panel discussants. Keynote speaker in the morning will be Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, Director General of the National Economic and Development Authority while Hon. Nestor A. Espenilla Jr., Deputy Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas will be the keynote speaker in the afternoon.

The summit which will culminate in a presentation of the consolidated  collective inputs  from the stakeholders and a stakeholders’ signing of commitment will be an avenue for for discussion about issues, trends and other developments in the real estate industry.

TOPS is a broad-based group of organizations that includes real estate developers brokers, banks, other financial institutions and government agencies involved in the multi-billion peso property sector. It aims to streamline coordination, cooperation and collaboration among its member organizations and the government to improve property registration processes and other matters involving real estate, chattel and other property transactions.

Interested participants may register for a slot via topsinc.ph. Alternatively, contact Ms. Pauline Nepomuceno at 0936-9516038 or email topsinc@yahoo.com.

Be a Man - Robust Extreme

Be a Man

We heard the phrase “be a man” too many times at the gym or sports arena but how can one actually start acting like a man. Is it by toughening up? Or holding back a cry? Society has forgotten men has feelings too. ATC Healthcare has been a trusted life ally for everyone, but this product particularly caters to real men. Being a man is being able to break through the social norm, and being true to himself and his own limitations.

Gain back the confidence you had with Robust Extreme dietary supplement for men. Robust Extreme is safe and effective as it contains 100% all natural ingredients.  Robust Extreme helps boost a man’s sexual experience while giving him a powerful and long-lasting erection. People won’t admit it, but with Robust Extreme he could redefine the way he sees himself in a relationship with all the sensibilities that goes with it. Robust Extreme is priced at P125.00 per capsule and is available in all leading drugstores nationwide. To ensure effectivity, don’t drink alcohol. Robust Extreme is recommended to be taken one capsule two hours before intimate activity, best taken with warm water and an empty stomach. For more tips on how to make your relationship with your partner better, like Robust Extreme on Facebook – www.fb.com/RobustExtreme.

Habitat for Humanity - Education starts at Home

Children lack access to decent education when they lack access to decent home.
Access to proper education has recently been hampered due to various socio-economic factors, such as lack of proper healthcare, job opportunities for parents and notably, adequate housing.

In the Philippines, more than four million families live in unsafe, unsanitary and unhealthy places which they call ‘home’, hindering the learning environment of the children living in these conditions.
The Urban Institute (2012) states, “High-quality, affordable housing, located in safe neighborhoods can go beyond providing basic shelter and stability, and can help provide a stable environment where children access high-performing schools, learn, and succeed academically.”
According to Rothstein (2013), a child who lives in inadequate housing, has limited ability to enrich themselves, stunting their growth and development in their crucial formative years. It takes a direct toll on the child’s capacity to develop and fully realize the skill sets and potential they possess.
Consequently, these children are more likely to become exposed to violence, crime and drug abuse, further postponing their development (Urban Institute, 2012).
The case of youth offenders has increased and continues to as the Philippine National Police found an 18% increase in juvenile crimes reported, in 2008.
“Children have the right to have a healthy home and neighborhood which provides them a sound learning environment – where learning is easy, and cherished. If we focus on giving children the decent homes they not only deserve, but have the right to, our future will be prosperous,” says Charlie Ayco, Managing Director and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Philippines.
School provides our children the knowledge to equip the next generation, but without the environment to foster that knowledge, they are unable to apply these lessons to their lives.
A home is more than just four walls and a roof. It is where children develop into the best versions of themselves.
“Together, let’s build a world where every child has a decent place to live, and study,” says Ayco.

The Back-To-School campaign’s aim is to help generate funds in order for Habitat for Humanity Philippines to provide adequate means of living such as a home for families. Children of these families have every right to study in a conducive environment to be able to reach for their hopes and dreams. Give millions of children the opportunity to improve their lives and support Habitat’s Back-To-School campaign.  


Kindly link the “Donate Now” button to this link: http://bit.ly/DonateToHabitat

Los Angeles Lakers Champion and Former NBA Head Coach Brian Shaw to Train Filipino Athletes and Coaches at Gatorade NBA Training Center

NBA Champion and former Head Coach Brian Shaw will tip off NBA FIT Week by providing advanced basketball instruction at this year’s Gatorade NBA Training Center in the Philippines, the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Gatorade announced today.

Returning for the second consecutive year, the Gatorade NBA Training Center gathers elite instructors in the fields of basketball, fitness and conditioning, and nutrition to share the latest techniques with elite Filipino athletes and coaches.  The 2015 Gatorade NBA Training Center will be held at the Gatorade Hoops Center at Mandaluyong City on July 29.

NBA FIT Week highlights the importance of healthy living through three pillars:  be active, eat healthy, and play together.  Additional activities lined-up for NBA FIT Week include an NBA Cares clinic with Project Pearls on July 30 for 40 children from the community of Barangay Bocaue, Bulacan, as well as the NBA FIT Adi Nation Skills Camp on July 31 featuring nine to 13-year-old youth varsity players.

Shaw will share personal drills and training techniques with PBA player L.A. Tenorio and Filipino college basketball players including De La Salle University’s Jeron Teng, National University’s Gelo Alolino, Ateneo’s Von Pessumal, Far Eastern University’s Mike Tolomia, and University of Santo Tomas’ Kevin Ferrer.  Shaw will also share his coaching philosophies with professional and collegiate coaches in a special coaches’ session.

“I look forward to visiting Manila and witnessing first-hand the passion of the Filipino players and coaches,” said Shaw.  “The Philippines has produced great basketball talent, and I’m excited to share my knowledge with the participants to help them take that next step.”

Over 14 years in the NBA, Shaw played for seven different teams including the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won three consecutive NBA Championships from 2000 to 2002.  Following his retirement as a player, Shaw joined the coaching staff of Lakers head coach and Hall of Famer Phil Jackson, where he won two more Championships (2009, 2010).  Shaw joined the Indiana Pacers as an assistant coach in 2011 before being named head coach of the Denver Nuggets in 2013.

NBA Champion and 2006 NBA Coach of the Year Avery Johnson, Wesley Matthews of the Dallas Mavericks and Robin Lopez of the New York Knicks visited the Gatorade NBA Training Center in 2014.

Follow Gatorade on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gatoradeph to learn more about the Gatorade NBA Training Center Philippines.  Follow Adidas Philippines on Facebook (www.facebook.com/adidasph), Twitter (www.twitter.com/adidasph), and Instagram (www.instagram.com/adidasph).  For more information on Project Pearls, visit www.projectpearls.org.  For all things NBA, visit www.nba.com and follow the league on Facebook (www.facebook.com/philsnba) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/nba_philippines).

--Press Release - #BoyRaket

Start a beauty regimen with Gluta White & Firm

To achieve whiter, firmer, and healthier skin, follow the golden rule of skincare: Cleanse, Tone, Moisturize and Protect.

Gluta White & Firm, a revolutionary skincare product, made these steps easy and possible with its complete skincare line: Facial Wash, Facial Toner, Facial Cream, Body Lotion, Deodorant, and  Pressed Powder. Enriched with Glutathione, Clair Blanche, L-Carnitine and Lipofirm, these ingredients will transform your skin into its healthiest, most beautiful state.

Glutathione protects the cells from harmful toxins and at the same time lightens and brightens skin tone. It works together with Clair Blanche, a fusion of 7 active ingredients that also prevent melanin formation leading to better skin whitening efficacy. This revolutionary product is clinically-tested and proven effective by dermatologists to give whiter skin in just two weeks.

L-Carnitine and Lipofirm both break down fatty tissues to specifically reduce skin’s subcutaneous water and therefore increase skin firmness. This blend is formulated by dermatologists to lift sagged portions of the skin and brings back its fresh and youthful glow.

Make it a habit to follow Gluta White & Firm’s golden rule of skincare so you can say hello to a radiant skin and radiant life.

Gluta White & Firm is available in all leading department stores, supermarkets, and drugstores nationwide.

Nike Brings Paul George to Manila to Inspire and Enable #RisePlayers

Manila, Philippines, July 20 2015 – Nike basketball athlete, Paul George, was in Manila to be the first mentor to the 24 players from #Rise, Nike’s first ever reality documentary and basketball development program.

George arrived on Sunday, July 19, and dropped in on local kids playing basketball at a tenement court, getting his first immersion into Pinoy streetball. On July 20 George opened the House of Rise, the main training ground for Rise players, and introduced the 24 Rise players. The Rise players have embarked on a six-week journey of high-level basketball training from professional coaches led by former Gilas head coach Chot Reyes and former national player now Talk ‘N Text team manager Jimmy Alapag.

Since July 15, the Rise players have been living like a Nike athlete – professional training every day consisting of skills drills and strength and conditioning workouts.  Training is conducted by Nike Rise coaching staff led by Coach Chot. They will be aided by elevated training tools that will help them analyze their game and get better at it, raise their level through speed, shooting and defensive exercises, and be motivated by athletes who will share their own Rise stories.

The Rise players have been equipped with the best Nike Basketball product innovations that include both training apparel and footwear. For supporters and fans, the Nike Rise collection of tees and signature athlete shoes will be available at selected Nike stores beginning July 2015.

“There is no lack of basketball talent in the Philippines. But there may be a lack of opportunity. Every basketball player wants to reach new heights in his game so he can bring his game out there and reach his or her basketball dream. Nike wants to help them get out of their comfort zone so they can make that next step that will make them rise to the top of their game. By providing them with a professionally run basketball program and product innovations to support them, they can hopefully make their dreams come true,”said Patrick Reyes, Country Marketing Manager of Nike Philippines.

The audience can follow the 24 kids on their Rise journey until the final 12 players that comprise the Rise Team are chosen over TV5, every Sunday starting July. For behind-the-scenes and additional training content, go to Nike.com.  Keep track of online content through #Rise.

END

About NIKE, Inc.

NIKE, Inc. based near Beaverton, Oregon, is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities. Wholly-owned NIKE subsidiaries include Converse Inc., which designs, markets and distributes athletic lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories and Hurley International LLC, which designs, markets and distributes surf and youth lifestyle footwear, apparel and accessories. For more information, visit www.nikeinc.com

About Rise

Rise is Nike’s first-ever reality documentary basketball program in the Philippines, bringing the best in innovation and training to enable athletes to rise beyond their limits. Rise is to inspire young Filipinos to discover that the ability to rise is in everyone, to raise and game and realise their true basketball potential. Through a nation-wide search, 24 Rise players will be enabled by professional training and coaching, and Nike Basketball product innovations. Training will be conducted in the House of Rise. The journey will be broadcasted on TV5 every Sunday starting July. For behind-the-scenes and additional training content, go to Nike.com. Keep track of online content through #Rise.

Prestigio - A European Brand Now in the Philippines

Mention Europe and images of iconic fashion houses, art pieces, design structures, cars, and other top lifestyle brands will come to mind. In recent years, prominent European companies have been setting shop in the Philippines, eyeing the country’s dynamic and growing consumer market.

Now, the Filipino mobile market will soon experience European quality and luxury as Prestigio, a leading European manufacturer of affordable luxury mobile devices, consumer electronics, and accessories, makes its way to the booming smartphone industry. Known for providing high-quality products with cutting-edge technology at prices within reach, Prestigio has announced its official entry in the Philippines with the launch of a range of smartphone models.

“Prestigio is taking the first step to enter this fast-growing and competitive smartphone market. The Philippines is our very first official distributor in Asia, demonstrating our confidence that we will be able to extend our global reach into the Filipino mobile market. After seeing Prestigio gain strong traction in several markets as a credible alternative to established brands at extremely competitive prices, we now look forward to replicating this success in the Philippines,” said Mr. Sergey Bezruchenok, Product Development Manager of Prestigio Global.

The international brand has massively gained popularity in Europe, the Middle East, as well as several regions of Africa – currently represented in 32 offices and sold in 70 countries. After successfully leaving footprints in the international arena, Prestigio hopes to make an impressive mark in the Philippine smartphone market with the introduction of its Multiphone smartphone line: the 3 Series Multiphone 3450 Duo and 3502 Duo, the 5 Series Multiphone 5454 Duo, 5550 Duo, and 5508 Duo, and its Windows Phone 8.1 Multiphone 8500 Duo.


“We at Prestigio are all very excited about our products entering one of the most dynamic, aggressive and competitive smartphone markets in Asia, if not the world,” Jojit Alcazar, Prestigio Managing Director said. “In bringing this new range of smartphones to the Philippines, we hope to let Filipinos experience refinement, and a taste of unparalleled European design, aesthetics, technology and performance. As we usher in the Multiphone series to the local market, we seek to deliver the optimum mix of the highest quality and advanced technological features with competitive pricing.”

Alcazar said the Prestigio Multiphone series is perfectly targeted at the growing number of cost-conscious but intelligent smartphone buyers in the Philippines, who want a phone that can keep up with various kinds of lifestyles. “We understand the unique and different needs and behavior of Filipino mobile consumers, which is why Prestigio has come up with a range of options that will fit their lifestyle and budget,” Alcazar added.

Leading the Prestigio Multiphone series is the exciting new phablet, the 5550 Duo. A 5.5-inch display is more than just a trend in modern smartphone development: it’s an absolute advantage that allows users to enjoy the ultimate opportunities of mobile Internet. Watching video streams in HD quality, and playing online games are simple tasks for the powerful processor of the Multiphone 5550 DUO. The quality of image and video playback on a large 5.5’’ high-end IPS display is just amazing, and comes with the advanced Gorilla Glass 3 protection. What’s more, for a big phone, it sports a very slim and sleek body with clean lines and soft-touch finishing to ensure superior look and feel.

Extremely powerful, the Multiphone 5508 Duo delivers performance which is miles ahead of the competition with its best-in-class Octa Core processor. Offering outstanding energy efficiency, one can enjoy long hours of business and personal usage with unlimited multitasking, superior imaging, complemented by the latest Android 4.4 KitKat, crystal  clear content delivery on an IPS screen with DragonTrail Glass protection. What’s more, the 5508 Duo is built with a light body, minimalistic design and metal finishing that conveys a premium look. It also comes with a back case – a stylish accessory to complement your gadget.


The Multiphone 3502 Duo, on the other hand, makes each smartphone experience enjoyable with its advanced smartphone features at a price one can easily reach. Fans of widescreen will be in for a treat, as the 3502 Duo offers a sharp and spacious 5.0” IPS display, quad core processor, enhanced camera, Dual SIM and Android KitKat. It sports a curved body and soft-touch finishing for superior look and feel. With its stylish design, a set of pre-installed applications and a reasonable price, the 3502 Duo makes it a perfect smartphone for today’s on-the-go lifestyle.

Catering to those in need for speed, the new Multiphone 5454 DUO boasts of a powerful mix of design, engineering and network solution with the latest 4G LTE technology. It brings the most advanced performance that anyone could ever ask of a smartphone, giving you the ability to do more: streaming without interruption, seamlessly play multi-player games, browsing faster than ever before, downloading a full-length HD movie in seconds. Its cutting-edge mobile features perfectly matches the high speed 4G network and Snapdragon processor on board that gives mind-blowing performance.

Windows phone enthusiasts can revel in the Multiphone 8500 Duo, packed full of features that help you capture and share what matters most as well as work on the go: crystal clear 5.0” IPS display with Gorilla Glass protection, quad core CPU, 8.0 MP advanced camera,  fast internet connection, Dual SIM and the latest Windows phone features built-in. It is a smartphone that was reinvented around you with a smart technology to inspire your world and let you express yourself. Its exquisite body is covered with soft-touch texture.

The Multiphone 3450 Duo, meanwhile, boasts of impressive features that offer the best value for money. Advanced yet affordable, the 3450 Duo carries the latest smartphone features: sharp 4.5” IPS display, powerful Quad core processor, 8.0MP camera, Dual SIM, all powered by incredible Android 4.4 KitKat. Its elegant and compact design means it will fit perfectly in your pocket, as well as fitting in with your style.

All products in the Multiphone series come with dual SIM capabilities, to enable one to keep personal and business calls separate, but conveniently carry only one phone. Prestigio’s offerings are also built with superb camera features, allowing one to capture exceptionally high-quality photos and videos.


The Prestigio MultiPhone line up comes with the following retail prices: 3450 Duo (Php 5,699.00), 3502 Duo (Php 6,199.00), 5454 Duo (Php 8,799.00), 5550 Duo (Php 8,999.00), 8500 Duo (Php 9,699.00) and 5508 Duo (Php 13,899.00).

Prestigio does not stop at providing style and performance – it also offers MultiStore, a marketplace providing an easy access to a great number of free, discounted and downloadable applications that are specially designed and carefully selected to be used on Prestigio devices worldwide. Taking particular consideration on each customer’s needs, Prestigio lets one avail of free service at any service center in any country that has Prestigio presence.

Prestigio is distributed in the Philippines by Veracity Mobile, a consumer electronics and solutions distribution company initially folded into Veracity Synergy Solutions --- an established telecommunications services and solutions provider in the Philippines. To know more about Prestigio’s Multiphone smartphone products, visit www.prestigio.ph.

SM Mega Fashion Hall sweeps top accolades at Philippine Property Awards

Receiving the awards in behalf of the company were (from L-R) Mr. Christian V. Mathay, AVP for Operations, SM Supermalls; Ms. Anna Maria S. Garcia, President, SM Supermalls; Arch. Fides G. Hsu, Vice-President of Engineering, Design & Development (EDD) Design; Mr. Timothy Albert Go, Regional Manager of EDD Design; and Mr. Luis Enrique T. Manosing, CEO of Metro Development Management, Inc.

The Mega Fashion Hall of SM Megamall led the SM Group for excellence in the shopping and retail industry, bagging two key awards during the 2015 Philippine Property Awards held recently at Fairmont Hotel in Makati City. The global lifestyle hub received the Best Retail Development and Best Retail Architectural Design awards, with SM Prime Holdings getting the top honor as the Best Developer Award.

Launched only in January last year, the SM Mega Fashion Hall brought to the Philippines imported brands from all over the globe, housing them in a sleek and modern building to complete a world-class shopping experience. The five-storey shopping center boasts of a wide selection global brands that found its way to Philippine shores.


Home to the flagship stores of the world’s most popular fashion brands, H&M, Zara, Uniqlo and the furniture power house, Crate & Barrel. Mega fashion Hall brings together exciting dining concepts, HongKong’s Michelin-star dimsum restaurant, Tim Ho Wan, the first St. Marc Café of Tokyo, gyoza specialist Osaka Ohsho and the most
awaited ramen restaurant, Ippudo.


SM Group affiliates likewise garnered several commendations that include Best Landscape Architectural Design and Best Affordable Condo Development for Metro Manila for SMDC; and Best Office Development, Best Architectural Design, and Best Commercial Development for BDO. The Philippine Property Awards is part of the Asia Property Awards series, which recognizes the best of Asia’s real estate, and has become a respected standard in the industry.

Breastfeeding and Work: Let's Make it Work!

The Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS), in cooperation with The Medical City, is proudly hosts to the 1st International Breastfeeding Conference and 3rd Breastfeeding Congress, to be held on August 3 and 4, 2015 at the Crowne Plaza Galleria in Ortigas Avenue, Quezon City. The theme for this year’s conference is “Breastfeeding and Work: Let’s Make It Work!”

The event will feature both international and local world-class breastfeeding experts. The international speakers will come from the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM), a worldwide organization of physicians dedicated to the promotion, protection and support of breastfeeding and human lactation.

They include Dr. Arthur Eidelman, neonatologist and past president of ABM; Dr. Jennifer Thomas, pediatrician and a public health expert who recently co-authored her first book, Dr. Jen’s Guide to Breastfeeding; Dr. Miriam Labbok, a senior advisor for UNICEF HQ on Infant and Young Child Feeding and the Chief of Nutrition and Maternal Health at USAID; and Dr. Julie Smith, an economist who is currently working on her research on the economics of breastmilk.              

PPS also invited speakers from the Philippines who will share their expertise and experiences on breastfeeding. Dr. Ryan Capitulo, a distinguished obstetrician, will present the joint position statement of PPS and the Philippine Obstetric and Gynecologic Society on breastfeeding. Dr. Ma. Naval Rivas, a paediatrician, will discuss how to achieve a breastfeeding friendly physician’s office. Dr. Sharon Gianan-Cruz, a respected obstetrician, will speak on the role of fathers in breastfeeding and how fathers can become the tool for a successful breastfeeding experience.

On the other hand, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima will share his experience as a father of a breastfeeding child.  Fellow paediatricians, Dr. Blesilda Concepcion from The Medical City and Dr. Estrella Jusi from Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, will share how their respective hospitals responded to the call to action on how to become one of the first private and public PPS accredited Mother-Baby Friendly Hospitals in the country.

Another highlight of the Breastfeeding Conference is the launch of the World Health Organization (WHO) / UNICEF’s Baby Friendly Initiatives.   These Initiatives include Mother-Baby Friendly  Hospital  Initiative (MBFHI), Baby Friendly Workplace Initiative, and for hospitals already with full MBFHI accreditation:  Neo Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative and Baby Friendly Community Initiative.  Representatives from different PPS accredited hospitals, supporting organizations and lead partners will be invited to discuss their experiences and together come up with improvements in the local setting through collaboration and networking. This will be a continuing event in the future Breastfeeding Congresses for the next five years.

The Breastfeeding Congress will also feature the Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) workshop and the Wellstart Breastfeeding workshop. KMC is a method of care of preterm and low birth weight infants which involves infants being carried, usually by the mother with skin to skin contact.  The KMC workshop is intended for health professionals responsible for the care of these infants. The Wellstart Breastfeeding workshop on the other hand aims to equip educators of the Wellstart Breastfeeding curriculum from PPS accredited hospitals, with the basic skills needed in the training of students and residents regarding breastfeeding.

MAPFRE Insular Optimistic for Growth in 2015 with 37.6% Increase in Q1 Production

Starting strong in 2015 with 37.9% growth in total production for all lines and channels on the first quarter of the year compared to the same period of 2014, MAPFRE Insular is optimistic on  projection of growth of its business for the year.

The company’s growth in Q1 is attributed in the Fire Insurance line which alone doubled versus its performance in 2014 delivering over 299 million in premiums for the Company. Following Fire Insurance, Casualty and Marine Cargo insurance are the second and third respectively in terms of growth. 2015 is a year of consumer-centric innovation for MAPFRE Insular. Along with continuous brand building and awareness efforts, the Company is focused on becoming the trusted insurance company of choice for the Filipinos by delivering superior and efficient insurance solutions for their different needs.

“We at MAPFRE Insular are continuously strengthening our geographical presence to make our services easily available and affordable to more Filipinos nationwide through our various distribution networks,” says, Tirso Abad, President and CEO of MAPFRE Insular. “Our multi-channel offices and sales offices have grown in total production by 37.6% and 146.9% respectively in the first quarter. These channels have been driving growth in the Accident, Fire and Motor business through an active agents’ network focused on selling retail products,” Abad adds.

MAPFRE Insular completed the first quarter of the year with several programs that aim to improve consumer experience of existing products and services. In March, MAPFRE Insular launched its VIP Fast Track Claiming process, an innovation in the motor car insurance claims procedure that only requires one document* when making a claim. Clients may now enjoy a fast, easy and convenient claiming experience once they have enrolled their car insurance policies in the program.

Other than this program, MAPFRE Insular continues on improving its systems and processes for the satisfaction of their consumers through its technological and digital enhancement such as Tronweb – an IT system allowing for an improved integration of company-wide processes and standardized database analysis that would lead to a more working efficiency.

1 MAPFRE Insular in support of the government’s advocacy to increase insurance awareness has also recently made available a program for low-income urban population in Metro Manila. The company has established Kabuhayan at Kinabukasan Alay ng MAPFRE sa Pinoy (KaKAMPi) Microinsurance, a program to educate and help protect families from the financial burden of coping with costs associated with the unexpected death of family member. Moreover, the KaKAMPi Mo scratch card was launched for the same target. The scratch card is an accessible and affordable personal accident insurance solution for the low-income urban population.

Continuously engaging in programs and offering services that are focused in contributing to the betterment of the Filipino society, MAPRE Insular ensures that the welfare of their customers is their top priority. This commitment motivates the company in the continuous improvement of its products and services.

The company is gearing for more innovations and expansion in 2015.
For more information about MAPFRE Insular’s services, visit www.mapfre.com.ph.

*For own damage and clear cut claims only

– END –

MAPFRE Insular is a non-life insurance company offering general insurance for optimum financial protection and risk management. It provides insurance services on fire and allied lines, motor vehicle, personal accident, casualty, liability, engineering, marine cargo, surety, and micro insurance. Founded in 1934, MAPFRE Insular today ranks among the top five in the non-life insurance industry in terms of earned premiums, investment income, and net income. MAPFRE Insular is a part of the MAPFRE Sociedad Anonima, the largest insurance conglomerate in Spain.

It is also the leading non-life insurance company in Latin America and the 6th largest non-life insurer in Europe. MAPFRE S.A. operates mainly in Spain and in over 47 countries worldwide. It has more than 23 million customers, insured vehicles, and millions of insured homes.

www.mapfre.com.ph

https://www.facebook.com/MAPFREInsularInsurance

Mini Stop set to open in Tutuban Center

One of the most popular and dependable convenient store will be part of the Tutuban Center family soon!

Shown in the photo (from left) are Anne Yap, Leasing Associate; Sylvia Tecson, Tutuban Center VP for Leasing and Marketing;  Larsen Don B. Realista, Mini Stop Development Specialist; Joseph T. Rosales; Mini Stop Senior Store Development Manager; Ron Sugapong, OIC-Tutuban Properties, Inc. and CFO for Prime Orion Philippines, Inc.  

Mini Stop, the 24-hour convenience store chain, is formally Tutuban Center’s newest tenant after the contract signing last June 30, 2015. With already over 170 shops operating from 9AM to 7PM and a night market, the convenience store is looking to establish its presence in the area by servicing the constant heavy traffic of shoppers in the vicinity.   

“We are very glad that we were invited by the Prime Orion Group. The area they gave us is very prime,” said Joseph Rosales, Senior Development Manager of the convenience store chain. The branch, which is set to open in September, will be directly across the TC Shopping Plaza where shoppers coming from Mayhaligue, Recto, Tondo, Ilaya, and Tabora in Divisoria commonly pass.

Enervon Activ Bike & Sports Gear Raffle Promo

Yes! You're familiar of this brand, and this time they have something new for us. Most especially, if you consider yourself as a "Mamaw" when it comes to sports, specially in your chosen discipline.

What is Mamaw: In my own terms and from what I've been observing on the streets and over my experience in sports, those are the people that are really performing unbelievably excellent! and I mean like, 'Are you even human?!' kind of reaction that you can utter.

I've gave Enervon Activ a try and it did give me a pretty good effect on my performance not only in sports activities but at work as well.

 STEP 1:
 For every 10 capsules bought in a single OR = 1 PROMO CODE Buy 10 pieces of Enervon Activ on a single receipt from any participating stores: Mercury Drug, Watsons, South Star Drug, Rose Pharmacy, St Joseph Drugstore, HB1, Metro Gaisano, Puregold, Robinsons Supermarket, Rustan’s, SaveMore, Shopwise, SM, 7Eleven, FamilyMart and all participating supermarkets and drugstores. 

Rules on Enervon Activ Digital Promo Raffle Entries:

2.      One (1) promo code will be issued to one (1) official receipt (OR) only.
3.      Single receipt purchases will only be accepted. Accumulated receipts will not be accommodated.
4.      One raffle entry can only win once. All raffle entries that have not been drawn are still valid entries until the promo ends.
5.      Winners will be determined via electronic raffle every 16th day of the month at 12noon. Should there be any unforeseen events on the scheduled raffle draw date, the draw will resume on the next working day. An FDA representative will assist in drawing the raffle winner every month.
6.      All winners will be announced on the Official Unilab Active Health website (www.unilabactivehealth.com/promos/wegotyourbike) and the Unilab Active Health Facebook Page immediately after the draw.
7.      All winners will be contacted by an Enervon Activ Representative for further instructions on how to claim the prize.      
8.      For consolation prizes: Awarding of certificate and redemption of prizes will be at
9.      Level C Unilab Corporate Center Mandaluyong City from 9am-5pm on weekdays only. Winners will only be given up to 60 days to claim their prizes. All unclaimed prizes within 60 days from the day of announcement will be forfeited in favor of Enervon Activ with prior approval of DOH/FDA. In the event of a dispute, the DOH/FDA representative shall resolve the same, which decision will be final.
10.  For grand prizes: Awarding of certificate will be at Level C Unilab Corporate Center Mandaluyong City from 9am-5pm on weekdays only. Winners will only be given up to 60 days to claim their certificate.
11.  Redemption of prizes will be at Light N’ Up Office 223 N. Garcia St., Bel-Air Village 2 Makati City on the following dates: 
12.  June winner: August 15, 2015
13.  July winner: September 19, 2015
14.  August and September winners: December 12, 2015
15.  Winners who fail to redeem their prize on the said dates will forfeit their grand prize, unless winners inform Enervon Activ 2 weeks in advance of their revised schedule. Enervon Activ and winner will have to agree on the revised schedule of redemption.
16.  Winners are expected to bring all of the following upon claiming of their certificate in the Unilab Office :
17.  A valid ID with photo
18.  Printout of Enervon Activ raffle promo confirmation email
19.  If the winner lives outside of GMA, he/she can send a representative to claim his certificate provided that the representative presents the following:
20.  An authorization letter signed by the winner
21.  A valid ID with photo
22.  Printout of Enervon Activ raffle promo confirmation email
23.  All grand prize winners must personally claim their prize. Representatives will not be accommodated. If the grand prize winner lives outside of GMA, Enervon Activ will shoulder a maximum amount of Php5,000.00 shipping and handling fee of the purchased items. All other expenses and excess thereof will be paid for by the winner (e.g. airfare to and fro Manila).
24.  Enervon Activ serves the right to use all photos of the winners that are relevant to the promo as material for the ULAH website and ULAH Facebook Page.
25.  By joining the promo, the participant assumes full and complete responsibility in the prize that he or she receives.  The participant, if he or she is declared as a winner, hereby waives, releases and forever discharges the promo organizer from any claim, or any other nature upon receipt of the prize. The participant acknowledges that the promo organizer shall not in any way be held liable for any injuries or any other accidents before or after receipt of prize.
26.  Employees of United Laboratories, Inc. and those of its affiliates, subsidiaries, distributors, dealers, suppliers, advertising, digital and promotional agencies, DOH-BFAD representatives, and their relatives up to the 2nd degree of consanguinity or affinity, are not qualified to join this promo.
27.  For more inquiries about the promo, email enervonactiv@activehealth.com.ph  with the subject header “Enervon Activ Promo Inquiry”.
28.  DOH- FDA- CDRR Permit No. 173 series of 2015.

Take Enervon Activ daily, it’s not just for the runners but for all of us who need to get our energy going to face the day ahead with our own activity in everyday life.  From morning till night there is someone who need us and our energy should always be at the top level.

Have the energy every day and why not get some prizes along the way, join the promo and you never know , you might get what you are wishing for , a brand new bike.

For other details and mechanics, please check ,
www.unilabactivehealth.com/promos/wegotyourbike

MTRCB Imposes Strict Measures Over PBB 737 to Ensure Protection of Minor Housemates

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) imposed strict measures and closer collaboration with ABS-CBN Corp. and SkyCable Corporation as a result of the mandatory conference held Thursday. The conference meant to address various issues and concerns regarding the protection of the welfare and development of minor “housemates” in the television program “Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) 737” (and as regards other concerns about self-regulation).

Such issues and concerns were covered by the Board’s 03 July 2015 letter sent to said entities alleging complaints or feedback coming from some parents as well as the National Youth Commission (NYC) in regard to, among others, the cable 24/7 version of the program and its regular free TV version over Channel 2. 

Earlier, the Board also sent a letter dated 29 June 2015 asking ABS-CBN to attend the 09 July 2015 conference to consider measures on how best to protect minors in regard to the said program. Serious feedback coming from both the private and public sectors prompted the Board to incorporate into the mandatory conference consideration of overall theme and scenes placing minors in situations tending to compromise their naturally fragile personalities and for the entities concerned to explain their side.

The conference, handled by the Board’s Hearing Committee for the purpose – chaired by Board Member (BM)/Atty. Ricardo Salomon, with members BM Ma. Carmen Musngi and BM Cecilia Nubla, was attended by ABS-CBN Corporation represented by its various program executives, namely: Mr. Laurenti M. Dyogi, Head, TV Production Entertainment; Mr. Jon Moll, Director; Mr. Raymond Dizon, Business Unit Head; Mr. Marcus Vinuya, Creative Manager; Ms. Cynthia Jordan, Production Manager; Mr. Matthew Salegumba, Story Editor; Ms. Merce Gonzales, Production Manager; Ms. Marpua Engking, Head Reasearcher; Ms. Charmaina Estrera, Program Producer; Atty. Monalisa Manalo, Legal Counsel; Program Executives’ Anna Ilada, Marcella Panaguiton, JR dela Cerna, Krystel Agnote, Kane Errol Choa, and Rae Ann Ducut; and Sky Cable Corporation, the program provider on cable television Sky Channel 85, represented by its Ms. Cora Santiago and legal counsel Attys. Agatha Zapanta-De Jesus and Carmi Tugday.

Also in attendance were different resource persons who also wrote to the Board their concerns over the program: Dr. Zandro G. Rapadas of the U.P. College of Mass Communication and Ms. Arlene S. Lacson.

In addition, various resource persons were also invited to share their inputs and expertise to help and guide the Board and the summoned entities to come up with appropriate and comprehensive self-regulatory and remedial measures to address concerns such as mature or adult language, huddling close in bed, the lack of adequate adult supervision, to name some: Hon. Earl P. Saavedra, Commissioner of the National Youth Commission; Hon. Delia Hernandez, Executive Director of the National Council for Children’s Television; Hon. Patricia Luna, Executive Director of the Council for the Welfare of Children; Ms. Irma Valiente, Ms. Norline Jacobo, and Ms. Maribeth Casib from the Department of Labor and Employment-National Capital Region; Attys. Ryan Jeremiah Donato Quan and Jamie Ann Reyes of the Ateneo Human Rights Center; Dra. Georgina Gozo-Oliver of the Philippine Psychiatric Association; Sr. Ma. Consolata Manding, FSP of the Daughters of Saint Paul; Ms. Ma. Patricia Boton; Ms. Christine E. Gomez; Director Jose Javier Reyes; and psychlogist Fr. Filoteo Mangulabnan, S.J..

In an opening message, MTRCB Chairperson Eugenio Villareal addressed all participants, stating that the subject matter of the conference is beyond the show PBB 737 but is more importantly about the welfare and value of children and the family. Chair Toto also appealed for openness and initiative of all participants as he noted that we are all formators and educators and that we want our children to be people with character.

Different issues and concerns were addressed during the conference especially on the aspect of cultural sensitivity and how the show addresses the vulnerability of the minor housemates – which even include a 12 year old boy.

NYC Commissioner Saavedra addressed concern over the supervisory role of PBB 737’s “resident psychologist,” especially on the issue of sexual preference as well as the over-all psychological and moral development of the housemates.  On the matter of the program’s targeted young audience, and citing an NYC report, Comm. Saavedra stressed that the portrayal of modern identity of Filipino youth is important especially that media has great impact to young people and that TV is a major source of information.

Resource persons from AHRC, DOLE and CWC asked if the show has protective mechanisms in place for the minors and if there are interventions for parents.

Veteran director and academician Joey Javier Reyes raised concern over the lives of the minor housemates after PBB especially in regard to stigmas and seemingly bad reputation that may plagued some housemates as a result of social media. Director Reyes then stressed the important role of media in protecting the lives of the children, making the media the new “Babaylan.”

ABS-CBN and PBB responded to all the issues and concerns raised by the resource persons and were very open to the suggestions made by the participants. ABS-CBN TV Executive Laurenti Dyogi told that they are mindful of their responsibility towards the housemates and have regular assessments of the show and that the housemates are undergoing regular sessions with the team and their psychologist.

From the long discussions and careful deliberation, MTRCB will now work closely with PBB 737 until the end of the show by imposing specific actions and guidelines to ensure that the welfare of the minor housemates are of utmost importance.

MTRCB has required both the network and the cable company to institute remedial and self-regulatory measures to ensure the protection, welfare and development of all participants of the show. This is also to make sure that housemates will not be engaged in activities and tasks which may be hazardous to their life and safety. Relevantly, the management and production team, with legal counsel, were active in contributing to the remedial measures contained in the order issued at the end of mandatory conference.

All story editors are required to undergo a Matalinong Panonood and audience-sensitivity seminar to be conducted by Chairperson Villareal on a rotational basis every Thursday at the MTRCB office.

An advisory at the beginning of each episode must be placed stating the following: “This program may contain sensitive material. Viewer discretion is advised.” Further, starting July 10, the classification rating of PBB 737 Gold will now be SPG with at least descriptors pertaining to “Theme” (T), “Language” (L), and “Sex” (S).

And to address the needs and vulnerabilities not only of the participants but also the audience, a comprehensive “closing-out” discussion by a subject-matter expert after the completion of every task or challenge in regard to the precise lesson, learning or virtue to be imparted shall be implemented. This is actually a reiteration of a best practice of policy formulated and tested after the so-called “Nude Painting” controversy during the last PBB season.

The MTRCB thanked all participants in the mandatory conference for their initiative and cooperation.

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WORLD MOTOR SPORT COUNCIL REVEALS DATES FOR SEASON TWO FORMULA E CALENDAR

Season to start in Beijing on October 17th Paris to host first European round

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (July 10 2015) – The FIA WMSC, which met today in Mexico City, has approved the calendar for the second season of the FIA Formula E Championship. It is made up of 11 races, hosted in 10 cities, with London exceptionally hosting two races, as was the case in the inaugural season.

The second edition of the FIA series for single-seaters powered completely by electricity will get underway on Saturday October 17th this year in Beijing and will end in London, having travelled to at least nine different countries on three continents. Compared to last season, the main novelty is the appearance on the calendar of the Paris ePrix on April 23rd place on a circuit built up around the architectural complex of Les Invalides. The venue for the fifth round is still to be decided, while the absence of the Monaco ePrix is due to an alternation of dates with the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, which takes place only on even-numbered years.

“We are pleased to confirm that the second season will again feature 11 ePrix,” commented Alejandro Agag, CEO of Formula E. “It’s an important sign of stability and it consolidates the presence of the Championship in the panoply of major global motorsport events run under the aegis of the FIA.”, which will take “Over the past few months, we have received many indications of interest from numerous cities from all over the world, which is another confirmation of the extraordinary reception that

Formula E has received all over the world during its first season,” added Agag. “We have chosen to keep the number of races the same, with the aim of planting even more solid roots in the cities which trusted in us right from the start. We have added one of the world’s most important capitals and an amazing city, Paris, which will be one of the highlights of the season. As for the location of the fifth round, the one on 19th March, we are working to maintain the same geographic allocation of races: the aim is to have a fourth ePrix on the American continent. The first season only ended a short time ago in the fantastic setting of Battersea Park in London and already we cannot wait to get the new season underway with FIA, the teams and our partners.”

2015/16 FIA Formula E Championship – Calendar

Round Date Country ePrix

1 October 17 2015 China Beijing
2 November 7 2015 Malaysia Putrajaya
3 December 19 2015 Uruguay** Punta del Este**
4 February 6 2016 Argentina** Buenos Aires**
5 March 19 2016 TBD TBD
6 April 2 2016 USA Long Beach
7 April 23 2016 France Paris
8 May 21 2016 Germany Berlin
9 June 4 2016 Russia Moscow
10 Date TBD United Kingdom London
11 Date TBD United Kingdom London

 * All events remain subject to FIA track homologation
** TBC

Before the opening round in Beijing, Formula E will be on track at Donington Park (UK) in August, for three test sessions of two days duration each (10th and 11th, 17th and 18th, 24th and 25th) which will be open to media representative and the public. It will be the first opportunity to see cars go head to head from the 10 teams that have entered the second edition of the championship, which is now also open to technological competition between various powertrain constructors.

For more information on the FIA Formula E Championship visit www.fiaformulae.com

Cebu brightens up with COLOR Manila Run

The Queen City of the South was painted with vibrant colors and big smiles during the Cebu leg of COLOR Manila Run. More than 2000 Cebuanos, including local and international tourists, eagerly braved the shower of water and dyes to give their early morning run a colorful twist.

The beautiful seaside view of South Road Properties (SRP) served as the backdrop as runners get color-bombed with the happiest colors of the rainbow – yellow, orange, blue, green and purple, at different designated stations.

Aside from the standard dri-fit shirts, race bibs and bags, all participants were alsogiven colorful reflectorized sunglasses that added a funky, fashionable touch.

The race was divided into 10K, 6K and 3K running categories but therewere no clocks, checkered flags or victory lanes. Everyone ran at their own pace and those who completed the race each received a specially designed finisher’s medal.

Capping the race was a party like no other where the participants were showered with more colors as the event climaxed into a beautiful, colorful mess.

Supported by the Tourism Promotions Board, COLOR Manila Run is a friendly, non-competitive run and color festival rolled into one. This one-of-a-kind run definitely captures the fun spirit of the Filipinos. Aside from Manila and Cebu, COLOR Manila Run will also be held in Bacolod, Davao and Dagupan. For more exhilarating events and festivities that are happening in the Philippines this year, head to www.visitph2015.com.