Jul 8, 2021

Medical Experts Answer Most Asked Questions About Cough and COVID-19 in Kwentong Viral News Webinar

 

Medical Experts Answer Most Asked Questions About Cough and COVID-19 in Kwentong Viral News Webinar

 

The dangers of misinformation have become another threat amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. Due to lack of proper knowledge, people tend to be confused and paranoid about the symptoms, modes of transmission, and ways to prevent the virus.

 

How does a regular cough differs from one that’s caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus? Is tuob a sure solution for COVID-19? Can over-the-counter (OTC) drugs help? Through the Kwentong Viral News webinar, three medical experts shed light on these common questions about COVID-19 and cough.

 

Causes of cough

Coughing is the body’s natural reflex to get rid of unwanted elements like smoke, dust, and other irritants as well as phlegm in the airways and lungs.

 

“Essentially, ang ubo ay senyales na may underlying [na problema] or meron tayong ibang sakit.” said Dr. Earl Sempio, Biochemist and Pulmonologist. (Essentially, it’s a sign of an underlying problem or sickness.)

 

Acute infectious coughs are caused by bacteria or viral infections that are usually accompanied by fever, body pain, and other signs of infection.

 

Distinguishing a regular cough from COVID-19

Contrary to misconceptions, there's no single indicator whether a cough is COVID-19-related or not. “Mahirap sabihin na yung ubo is due to COVID-19. Ang importante kapag nagka-ubo ka, protect others. Mag-isolate na kayo muna,” (It’s not easy to determine whether a cough is due to COVID-19 or not, so if you have a cough, it’s better to protect others and self-isolate.) said Dr. Joseph Adrian Buensalido, Infectious Diseases Specialist. “Kahit ang doktor hindi namin masasabi kung COVID-19 ‘yan unless mapatest natin.” (Even doctors cannot certainly say that a patient has COVID-19 without testing.)

 

COVID-19 cases can be classified as mild, moderate, severe or critical depending on the severity of symptoms.

 

Managing COVID-19 cases at home

Dr. Buensalido likened mild COVID-19 cases to common cold or flu, which can be managed and treated at home with proper rest and intake of fluids. However, proper isolation should still be strictly observed in order to prevent the spread of the virus to other members of the household.

 

OTC medicines such as Carbocisteine can be helpful to relieve symptoms like coughs with thick and hard to expel phlegm while supplements like Zinc can help strengthen the immune system to fight off viruses and bacteria.

 

How Carbocisteine and Zinc help the body recover faster from cough

Mucolytics like Carbocisteine help clear the chest by making phlegm (mucus) less sticky and easier to cough up. Additionally, Dr. Gwen Agra, Internist and Pulmonologist, also cited a study where Carbocisteine was proven to lessen the growth of rhinovirus (common cold) in cultured human airway cells and decrease inflammatory chemicals.

 

“Ibig sabihin meron din siyang konting anti-inflammatory effect at nakakatulong din siyang magsuppress ng virus hindi lang sa common cold, meron din sa influenza,” she added. (It means Carbocisteine has a bit of an anti-inflammatory effect and it helps suppress viruses like the common cold and influenza.)

 

Zinc, on the other hand, is crucial for growth, development, and maintenance of immune function. In fact, there are several studies that show how Zinc can help resolve the common cold faster due to its action on immunity. “Nababawasan niya ng mga dalawa hanggang tatlong araw yung illness. At ang Zinc, magaling siya actually sa viruses kasi ang number one cause ng karaniwang sipon ay rhinovirus at ang number two, even before the pandemic, ay coronavirus,” said Dr. Buensalido. (Zinc lessens the days of illness from two to three days and is great in suppressing viruses like rhinovirus and coronavirus that usually cause the common cold.)

 

The mucolytic and anti-inflammatory properties of Carbocisteine combined with the right levels of Zinc for immunity is definitely a powerful combination against coughs caused by viral infections.

 

In a local study conducted by Dr. Agra and her team among patients with non-bacterial cough, it was found that the combination of Carbocisteine and Zinc for treatment resulted in reduced severity of cough caused by virus in 3 days and resolution of cough in just 5 days compared to the 10 to 14 days of recovery.

 

Watch the full webinar here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=207174681273728&ref=watch_permalink

5 facts and fallacies on vaccines

 

AXA Philippines, one of the leading insurance companies in the country, debunks 5 vaccine myths to help the people have a better understanding before they get vaccinated.


5 facts and fallacies on vaccines

 

Vaccines have been around for a while, but an age-old debate has resurfaced along with the availability of those that address COVID-19. Are they safe and effective?

 

AXA, one of the Philippines’ leading insurance providers, takes a closer look at the myths and misconceptions, as well as the hard facts, which can help you decide if vaccines, indeed, do the job they’re intended for.

 

Myth 1: Vaccines can make a person sick.

Fact: According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can’t get sick when administered with a vaccine. However, some people can experience mild side effects, such as soreness on the part of the body where the vaccine was injected. Such side effects disappear quickly, and more serious side effects are not common.

 

Myth 2: Vaccines can cause the very disease it aims to address.

Fact: It is unlikely that a vaccine can cause a disease to develop, but certain individuals may not reach the needed immunity level from the vaccine to fight the disease. Like most medicines, some vaccines aren’t 100% effective and people react to it differently, affecting its efficacy, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This doesn’t mean that a vaccine isn’t safe or effective or is a catalyst for the disease. It only shows that a few may not respond to it as well as others, according to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma &Immunology (AAAAI).

 

Myth 3: It is better to get natural immunity from a disease than get it from a vaccine.

Fact: Without being vaccinated, your body may build immunity from natural infection, but you also put yourself at risk for serious complications and even death. For example, when you don’t get your child vaccinated for Hib (Haemophilus influenza type b), this may cause intellectual disability. Without getting vaccinated for measles, this may lead to death, according to WHO.

 

The same is true with the COVID-19 vaccine that has been hotly debated recently. Without getting vaccinated, it may lead to hospitalization or death. According to the CDC, you may also develop what is called “long-COVID,” where you may experience the chronic symptoms associated with the disease, like headaches or shortness of breath-.     

 

Myth 4: COVID-19 vaccines can give you the disease or may have serious side effects.

Fact: COVID-19 vaccines are designed to build immunity against the disease by using weakened or killed SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, the virus that causes COVID-19. As for the adverse effects, there are some mild or short-term effects associated with these vaccines, such as fever, headaches, or body aches, which signal that the vaccine is working to build your immune system against the disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic in the U.S. However, it is recommended that you consult a doctor if you have allergies or any other pre-existing medical condition to assess your risk.

 

Myth 5: You get immunity for life when vaccinated against COVID-19.

Fact: According to the CDC, it’s still early to tell if a shot or two of the COVID-19 vaccine can give you life immunity. Studies continue to be conducted on a regular basis to check for its long-lasting effects, and formulas continue to be adjusted to develop immunity against other strains or variants of the disease.

 

Immunity against certain diseases doesn’t happen overnight, but research has shown that vaccines effectively provide protection against some of life’s most dreaded diseases. For critical illnesses that you may encounter as you get older, the best way to safeguard your health against them is to get protected as early as now.

 

The best way to do this is to get yourself a health insurance plan like AXA’s Global Health Access, which offers customers the best access to healthcare services here and abroad.

“Aside from the threats of COVID-19, critical illnesses like cancer, stroke, and heart attack remain in our midst, so we should also protect ourselves against them. With Global Health Access, it is easier for policyholders to avail of medical care wherever they are in the world through our partnership with over 1,400 hospitals and clinics locally and over 9,000 hospitals worldwide,” says Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer of AXA Philippines.

Global Health Access policyholders can now reimburse COVID-19 vaccine costs up to P5,000 and other eligible home care expenses, boosting the confidence of our customers in these challenging times. See here the full details of the coverage.

Global Health Access also includes coverage for epidemic and pandemic diseases like COVID-19, allowing customers to get comprehensive treatment for such illnesses, on top of other top-tier health benefits, such as up to P175 million coverage for inpatient and outpatients treatments and executive health checkups of up to P20,000 per year. Moreover, the health plan allows cashless payments, which makes it more convenient for customers these days due to the ongoing pandemic.

When it comes to health, it’s always better to boost your protection. To know more about Global Health Access, visit www.axa.com.ph/health-protection/global-health-access.

Jul 6, 2021

Protect your life goals with AXA Philippines’ MyLifeChoice


AXA Philippines MyLifeChoice

AXA Philippines MyLifeChoice lets policyholders personalize their policies according to their set of life goals.

 

 Protect your life goals with AXA Philippines’ MyLifeChoice


The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may have shifted our focus to protecting ourselves and our family from the negative impact of the virus. While doing so is critical at this time, it’s important to not lose sight of our goals that will see us through life when this pandemic is over. Whether it’s preparing for retirement, starting a business, saving up for your child’s education or for an emergency fund, goals are important because they serve as a compass to guide us on what we really want to achieve in life.

To help ensure you continue to pursue your goals, AXA Philippines is offering MyLifeChoice, a protection and investment plan that allows policyholders to personalize their policies according to their unique needs and priorities.


“The pandemic has made us realize the significance of protecting our life goals, which can be done through better preparation in case of emergencies and other unforeseen events. AXA MyLifeChoice can help you achieve your goals by covering you from the unexpected,” explains Rahul Hora, AXA Philippines president and chief executive officer.

Undoubtedly, setting life goals can be quite daunting, especially these days with the ongoing pandemic forcing us to focus on more urgent matters instead. According to financial planner Aya Laraya, even pre-pandemic, setting life goals
was already a challenge for many Filipinos. Some would rather focus on purchases that provide instant gratification instead of saving money, others believe it’s taboo or bad luck to prepare for bad events, while some would rather spend on other priorities.

 

But MyLifeChoice eases all that with the help of an AXA Financial Partner. The MyLIfeChoice policy allows you and the advisor to co-create a plan that’s based on your individual goals, priorities, budget, and level of protection need. Your AXA Financial Partner can also help you choose the right set of funds for you, depending on your investment risk appetite.

 

Not only that, what is great about MyLifeChoice is that you can already enjoy a start-up bonus on day one of your policy, which is equivalent to 70 percent of your first year premium invested in an AXA fund when you keep your investment for the long term. This bonus is on top of the invested units from the policyholder’s regular premium payments. 

With the help of an AXA Financial Partner, and the added benefit of the start-up bonus, you’re better poised to achieve your life goals with MyLifeChoice. To know more about the variants of MyLifeChoice and to see which one suits your needs, book an appointment with an AXA Financial Partner at
www.axa.com.ph/mylifechoice.


Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale TV Special with K-Pop Band Treasure, Spongecola, and Barbie Almalbis

Get free shipping with no minimum spend, 20% cashback, and ₱1 Deals including flash deals from leading brands such as Nestlé, Enfagrow, Vivo, and more


Get a Chance to Win ₱7 Million Worth of Prizes and Enjoy Performances from K-Pop Band Treasure, Spongecola, and Barbie Almalbis at Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale TV Special


Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, announces its 7.7 Mid-Year Sale TV Special, airing on GMA 7 and Shopee Live this July 7, 9:30-11:30 PM. Filipinos can expect an exciting night full of limited-time flash deals from top brands, performances from local artists and K-Pop group Treasure, big prizes amounting to ₱7,000,000, and more.

 

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “As Shopee wraps up the 7.7 Mid-Year Sale on a high note with our TV Special, we’d like to express our gratitude to our valued shoppers and partners for all the milestones we’ve reached thus far. Throughout the rest of 2021, we remain committed to continuously improving the online shopping experience through even more rewarding campaigns that provide joy to Filipinos and meet the demands of the growing local e-commerce landscape.”

 

Here are the highlights of the Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale TV Special:

 

     Exclusive flash deals from top brands in the country

Throughout the show, deal hunters can enjoy big savings with flash deals from leading brands such as Belo Essentials, Huawei, Reckitt Benckiser, Realme, Puregold, Bonchon, Adidas, SM, OPPO, Potato Corner, Gong Cha, Domino's, Lawson, and Moonleaf.

 

     Exciting performances from K-Pop and OPM acts

After thrilling fans with their Philippine television debut last Shopee 6.6 Mid-Year TV Special, K-Pop boy band Treasure returns for another set of performances with “I Love You,” “Orange,” and “Going Crazy.” OPM fans can also catch top Pinoy talents such as Barbie Almalbis, Spongecola, Xian Lim, Lani Misalucha, Kate Valdez, and more surprise guests.

 

     Over ₱7,000,000 worth of prizes

Viewers can play three Shopee Shake sessions, during which they can win 300,000, 500,000, or 700,000, respectively. One lucky viewer can also win the 1,000,000 jackpot prize by joining Shopee Milyonaryo. Meanwhile, shoppers should stay tuned to claim up to 4,500,000 worth of Shopee vouchers.

 

Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale

 

Until July 7, shoppers can enjoy free shipping with no minimum spend, up to 20% cashback, and exclusive ShopeePay ₱1 Deals at Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale.

 

They can also get big discounts up to 90% off on leading brands.


Users should top up their ShopeePay wallets through their debit cards, linked bank accounts, or other conventional methods for more exclusive promotions. This July 7, ShopeePay users can enjoy up to 77% cashback, ₱5 worth of load for only ₱1, and up to 35% cashback on Bills Payment. Users who top up their ShopeePay wallets on July 6 can also win ₱20,000!

 

For more information on the Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale, visit https://shopee.ph/m/7-7.

 



 




Jul 4, 2021

Nestlé Philippines supports Pilipinas Kontra Gutom Movement


Nestlé Philippines supports Pilipinas Kontra Gutom Movement

Nestlé agronomist conducting training for farmers under the Nescafé Plan.


Nestlé Philippines supports Pilipinas Kontra Gutom Movement

 

Hunger and malnutrition are among the most urgent concerns of Filipinos, heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey by the Social Weather Stations found that 20.9 percent or 5.2 million Filipinos experienced hunger from May to July 2020, the highest recorded since September 2014.


In addressing this challenge, Task Force Zero Hunger (TFZH) has initiated Pilipinas Kontra Gutom (PKG), a national and multi-sectoral movement against hunger composed of government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies from different industries. The program aims to reach one million Filipinos by 2022 and end hunger in 2030 by implementing the following work streams: ensuring food availability and accessibility, securing nutrition adequacy, and providing assistance for farmers and fisherfolk.

Nestlé Philippines supports Pilipinas Kontra Gutom Movement
Fourth from left is Sec. William Dar - Secretary of Department of Agriculture, who led the National Food Security Summit with the theme “Food for today and beyond: transforming Philippine Agriculture”. During the closing ceremony, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles presented Pilipinas Kontra Gutom with support from the private sector including Nestlé PH.

 

Nestlé Philippines is the private sector co-lead of work stream #1 – food availability and accessibility – through its NESCAFÉ Plan, with the vision to elevate farming as a dignified, sustainable profession.  Government partners for work stream #1 are the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Agrarian Reform, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Department of Trade and Industry.

 

Within PKG, Nestlé Philippines through its NESCAFÉ Plan will provide mentorship in agricultural technology and training to farmers, with the NESCAFÉ Better Farming Practices helping them improve the quality and quantity of their coffee yields using more sustainable and profitable methods.

 

The NESCAFÉ Plan is a global initiative that helps ensure a sustainable supply of quality green coffee. Through it, coffee farmers are provided access to superior quality plantlets, technology transfer via training, a support network of agronomists, and strategically located buying stations close to coffee areas so farmers can sell directly to Nestlé.

 

“Nestlé Philippines is proud to support the Pilipinas Kontra Gutom Movement. In line with one of PKG’s thrusts focusing on farming assistance, we want to make coffee farming a sustainable livelihood for our local farmers in the economic, environmental and social aspects.  With the NESCAFÉ Plan, they can learn about the best available technologies and techniques that seek to elevate coffee farming from subsistence to agripreneurship, enhancing their quality of life,” said Nestlé Philippines Chairman and CEO Kais Marzouki.


It’s raining great deals and superior Lysol products during Shopee’s 7.7 sale!

The official coming of the rainy season means that we can finally say goodbye to the hot, sticky weather. The flipside though is that along with the rains is the likelihood of mold build-up, which produces tiny spores that reproduce. Actually, it’s the damp spots in your home where molds are likely to grow, which can then cause troublesome allergies – sneezing, coughing, congestion, watery and itchy eyes.

It’s raining great deals and superior Lysol products during Shopee’s 7.7 sale!



Thanks to Lysol, you no longer need to suffer from mold-induced allergies with just the properly using their product, coupled with proper cleaning and prevention practices, to help nip mold growth before it starts.


By ensuring that the air flows freely inside your home and humidity levels remain low, plus checking for possible leaks in the roof, walls, and plumbing, and also the proven reliability of Lysol Disinfectant Spray you can say bye-bye to germs, bacteria, fungi, and even other viruses. To know the many ways to use Lysol, read more here


When cleaning hard surfaces – tables and shelves – or soft surfaces – like drapes and rugs – where the presence of mold growth usually occurs, a decent spray of Lysol Disinfectant Spray for example can be of great help. In fact, Lysol should very much be a part of your cleaning arsenal as it effectively gets rid of viruses and bacteria too! 


Lysol Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale


And just as the rains begin to arrive, Lysol gives everyone a reason to stock up on Lysol products through a downpour of deals during the Shopee 7.7 sale!


Starting July 4 as a special feature up until July 8, enjoy up to 30% off plus an additional 5% off when buying an additional 3 products! As an added bonus, don’t forget to use the following value-laden vouchers: LYSOL70 for P70 off for a minimum purchase of P699 and LYSOL170 for P170 off for a minimum purchase of P1499.


So, remember to mark your calendars for the coming Lysol Shopee 7.7 sale and enjoy great shopping values by adding to cart Lysol’s line of superior disinfecting sprays—the best way to keep unwanted mold growth at bay!

Nestlé PH supports Plastic 3R Hacks PH in search for innovations to tackle plastic pollution

Industry experts from the private, public and NGO organizations came together as the judges to review the proposals during the final round of the Plastics Hackathon - Team STP , upper left, was declared the winning team 

Nowadays, the younger generation is actively doing its part to save the planet by championing advocacies to combat climate change and plastic waste, supporting sustainable brands and their causes, and promoting the importance of a more environmentally conscious lifestyle. With the help of technology, they are developing practical and effective solutions that haven’t been tried before to address pressing environmental problems.


Recently, young minds harnessed fresh and unique ideas to solve plastic pollution through a nationwide virtual hackathon called Plastic 3R Hacks PH, organized by Redwizard Events Technology in collaboration with the Healthy Oceans and Clean Cities Initiative.


More than 150 participants representing cities and universities across the country registered for the competition and underwent a series of virtual activities to develop their projects. After preliminary judging, ten teams were selected, advancing to the final stage in which they pitched their projects to a board of judges composed of industry experts and representatives from UN-Habitat Philippines and the Government of Japan.


In the end, Team STP from Manila was declared the winner for its project that combined urban farming, data science, and IoT to decrease household generated waste and increase the recovery rate of plastic waste. The team received a cash prize of Php 50,000, which will help it to further develop its project.


The winning team STP Manila with Misha Rabat, Assistant Vice President for Public Affairs and Sustainability of Nestlé Philippines 

With the vision that none of its packaging, including plastics, ends up in landfills and the environment, Nestlé Philippines fully supports initiatives like the Plastic 3R Hacks PH that drive awareness and discourse on the plastic waste crisis. During the program, Misha Rabat, Assistant Vice President for Public Affairs and Sustainability of Nestlé Philippines, shared the company’s initiatives to achieve its ambition of making 100% of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025 while reducing virgin plastic consumption by 1/3.


“At our research centers in Switzerland and around Asia, we are looking at alternatives to plastics. In the Philippines, one of our recent milestones is the shift from plastic to paper straws for our ready-to-drink products We’re also reducing plastics in our operations and testing refilling stations to distribute our products.”


“One of the things we are doing to avoid our waste ending up in nature is sustaining plastic neutrality. This means we are recovering the equivalent amount of plastic that we put out in the market. Since August last year, we‘ve collected over 18,000 MT of plastic that are repurposed through our cement partners.”


Nestlé Philippines also supports infrastructure for the collection, sorting, and recycling of plastic waste, and has developed school modules, and guide materials for parents and teens on solid waste management endorsed by the National Solid Waste Management Commission. 

Jul 3, 2021

The conveniences of living at Golf Ridge Private Estate

The ongoing pandemic has highlighted the importance of location when deciding where to live. As urban cities become increasingly congested, more and more homeowners are considering spaces that are more open, less crowded, surrounded by greens and fresh air to boost health and wellness.

The conveniences of living at Golf Ridge Private Estate 


Golf Ridge’s expansive outdoor area with an infinity pool surrounded by lush greeneries.

Artist’s perspective of the Golf Ridge’s expansive outdoor area with an infinity pool surrounded by lush greeneries.


If you happen to be one of those who are looking to re-locate outside of the metro, Golf Ridge Private Estate, the newest project development of luxury real estate brand Filigree, is the perfect option to consider. And here are the reasons why:

Within booming leisure and business township. 

Golf Ridge Private Estate is situated within Filinvest Mimosa+ Leisure City in Clark, Pampanga, the newest productivity center in the North. Within the mixed-use township, end-users can find retail, hospitality, golf, gaming, and business sectors, making it the next booming destination for tourists and workers who are looking for work opportunities outside of Metro Manila.

Fosters a healthy environment for the family. 

Majority of the Filinvest Mimosa+ is made up of sprawling open spaces with Centennial trees and well-maintained green landscapes. Complementing these are Golf Ridge’s generous living spaces with amply-sized balcony that gives a commanding, borrowed view of Mimosa Golf Course. As such, families and guests can safely work or move around to enjoy the outdoors while allowing social distancing and other safety protocols against the COVID-19 virus.

Golf Ridge’s lobby

Artist’s perspective of Golf Ridge’s lobby that provides residents with a warm welcome.


Located in an exclusive area. 

Golf Ridge Private Estate sits within the most exclusive area of Filinvest Mimosa+. Here, families, expats, and empty-nesters can find perfect respite given its exclusivity, security, and tranquility.

It is easily accessible. 

Golf Ridge in Filinvest Mimosa+ is easily accessible, with a comfortable two-hour drive to and from Metro Manila via major highways such as the North Luzon Expressway (NLEx), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx), Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEx), and the newly developed Skyway Stage 3. It is also only a 10-minute drive to the Clark International Airport.

With its ideal location and all the benefits to be had at Golf Ridge Private Estate, it is, without a doubt, the best option for residents who are planning to live away from the highly congested metro—but still get to be at the center of action.

To know more about Golf Ridge Private Estate, visit www.golfridge.com.ph.
Jul 1, 2021

EU Whiz Youth champions awarded by the EU Delegation

EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Véron and First Counsellor Rafael de Bustamante with the EU Whiz Finalists
 

EU Whiz Youth champions awarded by the EU Delegation


After a fun and exciting competition run, Philippine Normal University-Manila (PNU), University of the Cordilleras (UC-BCF), and Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU) emerged as the top winners in the EU Whiz Online Competition, the “My Space, My Rights” video competition, and the “Green ECO I See” digital art competition respectively at the recently concluded EU Whiz: Filipino Youth of the FEUture.

 

A total of 1,132 students from 146 colleges and universities all over the Philippines participated in the three main competition categories--the biggest turnout in the history of the EU Whiz since its inception in 2006. 

 

PNU composed of Robert Stephen A. Co, Daniel C. Ortañez and Louis Vincent R. Bautista outlasted 175 teams in a grand display of knowledge on the EU and EU-Philippines Relations during the EU Whiz Online Competition. Joining the podium finishers are Gizelle Amour T. Tagabi, Rodel C. Pacit and John Patrick B. Magbato of West Visayas State University (WVSU) in second place; and Ronica Raine B. Babsa-ay, Sharilyn B. Rufino and Miriam Agnes A. Dampilag of Benguet State University in third place.


On the other hand, UC-BCF students Jan Millescent G. Blanco and Nyssa Bianka E. Tagapulot were awarded the Grand Prize for the “Green ECO I See” digital art competition with their entry “Meeting Grounds of Intersectional Environmentalism”. Their piece highlights the mutual connection between culture and environmentalism. Rounding out the category are first runner-up winners Nicole Anne Argañosa, Mesfin Bram Diosina and Elisha Gabrielle R. Briones from iAcademy with their entry “Colors of Nature”; and second runner-up winners New Era University Students Meryll Joyce T. Dirain, Krizle Lorenz P. Policarpio and Mark William A. Fabro with their entry “Beam of Hope”.


Meeting Grounds of Intersectional Environmentalism

Grand winner - Digital Art Competition
Entry title: Meeting Grounds of Intersectional Environmentalism
School: University of the Cordilleras
Team members:  Jan Millescent G. Blanco andNyssa Bianka E. Tagapulot


Colors of Nature


1st Runner Up - Digital Art Competition
Entry title: Colors of Nature
School: iAcademy
Team members:  Nicole Anne Argañosa, Mesfin Bram Diosina, and Elisha Gabrielle R. Briones

BEAM OF HOPE


2nd Runner Up - Digital Art Competition
Entry title: BEAM OF HOPE
School: New Era University
Team members:  Meryll Joyce T. Dirain, Krizle Lorenz P. Policarpio, and Mark William A. Fabro

Meanwhile, BPSU dominated the “My Space, My Rights” video competition—bagging both Grand Prize and first runner-up spots with Abegail P. Casabuena, Gerryline D. Maceda and Aira Joyce E. Gonzales’ entry “Lens of Hope” and Shaina Rey R. Pisigan, Michael Angelo A. Cervantes and Marvyn Jules C. Casimero’s entry “Salimpusa” respectively. UC-BCF clinched the second runner-up spot with Jillian Olivia M. Ramos, Ella Marie V. Bie and Thea Marie S. Lomboy’s entry “Empowered through Time”.


 Lens of Hope


Grand Winner – Video Competition
Entry title: Lens of Hope
School: Bataan Peninsula State University
Team members:  Abegail P. Casabuena, Gerryline D. Maceda, and Aira Joyce E. Gonzales

Salimpusa

 

1st Runner Up – Video Competition
Entry title: Salimpusa
School: Bataan Peninsula State University
Team members: Shaina Rey R. Pisigan, Michael Angelo A. Cervantes, and Marvyn Jules C. Casimero

 Empowered through Time

2nd Runner Up – Video Competition
Entry title: Empowered through Time
School: University of the Cordilleras
Team members: Jillian Olivia M. Ramos, Ella Marie V. Bie, and Thea Marie S. Lomboy

“I have made the engagement with youth one of my priorities. I am confident that all the EU Whizers will become ambassadors of our partnership and friendship. Kudos to the winners and we are looking forward to engaging further with you,” said EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Véron.

 

“Conducting this year’s EU Whiz on the digital platform has allowed us to broaden our reach and discover more skillful and talented young Filipinos than ever before. Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, these Filipino youth were able to utilize their inherent knowledge and creativity to advocate for key issues such as the need for green economy and youth rights. All these showcased the relentless spirit of the Filipino youth.”

 

Apart from the annual conduct of the inter-collegiate competition, the Delegation looks to build a community of EU Whizers who will continue to use their talents and skills to promote a better understanding of the shared EU and Philippine values.

 

“This is exactly what we at the EU strive for—to offer a platform for the youth who inspire positive change in the world. We hope to create a community of passionate young individuals and nurture them to become advocates and champions of tomorrow.”

 

Ambassador Véron and First Counsellor Rafael de Bustamante announced the winners in the EU Whiz grand competition, digital art and video creation competitions. Atty. Lily Freida Milla, Officer-in-Charge Executive Director, Commission on   Higher Education provided an inspirational message for the EU Whizers.

 

The panel of jurors for the digital art and video competitions were composed of well-known and accomplished creative professionals including Mr. Dan Matutina, Ms. Anina Rubio, Mr. Elvert Bañares, and Ms. Sandra Aguinaldo. 

 

The EU Whiz Online Competition was also supported by the Commission on Higher Education, the Philippine-Italian Association, and the Embassies of the Czech Republic and Hungary in the Philippines.

7 Fun Facts about TREASURE that K-Pop Fans Should Know Yahoo

7 Fun Facts about TREASURE that K-Pop Fans Should Know

New to Korea’s monster rookie boy group? Here are a few quick facts to get you started

 

If you’re a K-Pop fan, you’ve definitely heard of TREASURE, YG Entertainment’s youngest boy band. They may be new, but with their high-energy songs and killer choreographies, this rookie group has already made quite the impression on the K-Pop scene.

 

Interested in getting further acquainted with your future favorite boy group? New stans, here are a few basic facts you should know about TREASURE:

 

  1. TREASURE has 12 members

 

You’ll have a hard time finding a bias, because CHOI HYUN SUK, JIHOON, YOSHI, JUNKYU, MASHIHO, YOON JAE HYUK, ASAHI, BANG YE DAM, DOYOUNG, HARUTO, PARK JEONG WOO, and SO JUNG HWAN each possess their own unique charms!

 

  1. The group has two leaders

 

TREASURE is currently the largest group on YG Entertainment’s roster. With so many members, it only seemed practical for the group to elect two leaders. CHOI HYUN SUK and JIHOON, the two eldest, share joint leadership of the band.

 

  1. They debuted in August last year

 

TREASURE entered the K-Pop scene on August 7, 2020 with their debut single, “BOY,” catching the attention of K-Pop fans around the world. The electrifying music video which accompanied the song managed to surpass 10 million views after a mere 26 hours!

 

  1. And they just debuted in Japan this year

 

Coming on the heels of the release of “BEAUTIFUL,” which served as a popular anime theme song, TREASURE made their Japanese debut on March 31, 2021. The album contained Japanese versions of all their previous songs.

 

  1. But they’ve already won a lot of awards

 

As a rookie group, TREASURE has already proven that they’re quite a force to reckon with. Just look at some of the awards they’ve bagged since their debut less than a year ago—Rookie Artist of the Year at the 35th Golden Disc Awards and at the 2020 Asia Artist Awards, Best New Male Artist and Worldwide Fans’ Choice TOP 10 at the 2020 Mnet Asian Music Awards, and Global Super Rookies by Genius Korea.

 

  1. The members call the fandom TREASURE MAKER

 

The fandom is officially named TREASURE MAKER, but, adorably, the boys have also taken to calling their fans “teume” for short.

 

  1. They’ve already started flexing their acting skills

 

The members made their acting debut with their web drama, “It’s Okay, That’s Friendship,” a hilarious parody that touches on friendship and school life. It’s a must-watch for every TREASURE MAKER!

 

Couldn’t get enough of TREASURE at last month’s Shopee 6.6 Mid-Year Sale TV Special? Good news, TREASURE MAKER: you can catch TREASURE perform once again at Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale TV Special. Tune in to GMA 7 and Shopee Live this July 7, 9:30-11:30 PM to watch your favorite members! You also get the chance to win over 7,000,000 worth of prizes by watching the show.

 

Meanwhile, enjoy free shipping with no minimum spend, up to 20% cashback, and ₱1 deals at Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale. Until July 7, top up your ShopeePay wallet through your debit card and other convenient channels to enjoy more exclusive deals such as free shipping with a minimum spend of ₱199, 15% daily cashback, ₱10 worth of data for only ₱1, and up to 35% cashback on Bills Payment. On July 7 only, enjoy more upsized deals such as free shipping with no minimum spend and 50% cashback.

 

For more information on the Shopee 7.7 Mid-Year Sale, visit https://shopee.ph/m/7-7.

 

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.




Petron XCS powers Toyota Vios Cup Anew



PETRON XCS Powers 2021 Toyota Vios Cup Anew

 

Two industry giants have once again come together to revitalize Philippine grassroots motorsports. For the third season, market leaders Petron Corporation and Toyota Motor Philippines have renewed their partnership in the 2021 Toyota Vios Cup, one of the country's most exciting motorsports events.

Inspired by the spirit of "waku-doki" or heart-racing fun, the 2021 Toyota Vios Cup will consist of two formats — the Autocross Challenge and the Circuit Championship. The Autocross Challenge is open to amateur or newbie racers, with individual cars navigating the track in a timed competition. Podium finishes are awarded to drivers who complete the course in the fastest time.

The Circuit Championship, on the other hand, is the traditional circuit race with all cars competing head-t0-head to finish at the lead of the pack. Entries are classified into three categories: promotional class, sporting class, and super sporting class.

As in previous seasons, the 2021 Toyota Vios Cup will be powered by Petron XCS, a 95-octane high-quality premium motor gasoline. Petron XCS is formulated with a high-performance additive system containing a unique combustion catalyst and excellent detergent additive for optimum performance. The additive technology used in Petron XCS ensures quicker engine response, excellent engine protection, and optimal fuel efficiency.

With Petron XCS as the official fuel of the 2021 Toyota Vios Cup, competitors are assured of enhanced engine power and responsiveness for the most optimal track performance. In fact, as the trusted gasoline for the majority of discerning Filipino motorists, Vios Cup racers are familiar with the superior qualities of Petron XCS in powering their everyday drives, protecting the engines of their personal cars, and enjoying savings due to fuel economy.

Way back in the 2018 season, Petron XCS already garnered praise from the competitors like celebrity racers Aubrey Miles and Fabio Ide. "I choose Petron XCS because I use it for my everyday lifestyle. I use it for my two cars and my race car as well," Miles remarked. For his part, Ide commented, "Petron XCS helps my engine go faster, cleaner, and better. Also for the mileage, I know I can use my car for a longer period of time. It's the best choice."

The 2021 Toyota Vios Cup will implement strict guidelines as it returns to physical racing to ensure the health and safety of all concerned. The venue will be exclusively for racers, support teams, sponsors, and organizers. No public spectators will be allowed. Negative COVID-19 test results are required for all attendees. Physical distancing, sanitation, and personal protective equipment will be implemented, and socializing is prohibited within the venue. Safety marshals and health inspectors will be deployed to ensure compliance.

The race calendar for the 2021 Toyota Vios Cup is as follows: Leg 1 - July 9 & 10, Leg 2 - September 10 & 11, and Leg 3 - November 5 & 6. Awarding ceremonies will be held on the last week of November. Fans and enthusiasts can watch the races on the Facebook page of Toyota Motor Philippines https://www.facebook.com/ToyotaMotorPhilippines).