In celebration of World Toilet Day, Albatross, the leading name in air care in the Philippines, is taking action to support better sanitation for Filipinos. Recognizing that proper sanitation is a human right, Albatross is committed to fostering clean, safe toilet facilities nationwide.

Since its initiation in 2013 by the United Nations, World Toilet Day has inspired leaders worldwide to advance the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ensuring adequate and equitable sanitation for all. Yet, the numbers tell a stark story. Today, 3.6 billion people globally still lack proper sanitation, 20 million people don’t have access to basic sanitary facilities, and 8 million Filipinos practice open defecation,  with this practice of unsafe sanitation that can harm health and pollute the environment. Proper sanitation facilities are essential to protect both dignity and public health.

(from left) Rommel Taan, Supply Chain Head, Janna dela Cruz, Brand Manager, Maya Leander, Marketing Head, Neogin Evangelista, President & General Manager and Mr Tiburcio Aplacador, School Head, Parang High School

This year, Albatross addressed this critical issue in the Philippines, contributing to a cleaner, safer society. As part of its 2024 initiative, Albatross donated toilet cleaning essentials to various communities and institutions including Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) city jails in the National Capital Region, Madrasah Muslim schools in Metro Manila, family toilets in Sitio Sapang Munti Ipo Watershed (Norzagaray, Bulacan), and municipalities in Pasacao and Bombon, Camarines Sur.

Albatross provided products tailored to boost the hygiene and sustainability of toilet facilities: Albatross Toilet Bowl Cleaners, Albatross Deodorizers, and Gleam Liquid Sosa. These products help to ensure that toilets in these communities are not just accessible but hygienic, contributing to safer environments and a healthier future.

“This initiative is about more than donating products—it’s about empowering communities,” says Mr. Neogin Evangelista, President and General Manager of PHILUSA Corporation, the makers of Albatross. “Good sanitation practices begin with having the right tools, and we hope our contribution will inspire healthier hygiene habits that benefit everyone.” 

Aligned with Manila Water Foundation, Albatross’s World Toilet Day efforts reinforce its commitment to making sanitation safe, peaceful and protected for every Filipino. This partnership underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to empowering individuals and supporting efforts that make sanitation accessible and reliable for everyone.

Albatross’s initiative for World Toilet Day is a call to action for all Filipinos. It’s a reminder that sanitation is more than just access to toilets; it’s about upholding dignity and promoting well-being. With this move, Albatross hopes to inspire others—individuals, communities, and organizations—to join them in advocating for better sanitation. By coming together and investing in clean facilities, all can contribute to a healthier, safer, and more equitable society, ensuring that sanitation is a privilege and a protected right for all. #WorldToiletDay #MWFWTD2024 #Albatross

Follow Albatross on social media to stay updated on their initiatives and learn more about their products:

• Facebook: @AlbatrossPH

• Instagram: @Albatross_PH

Let’s work together to make sanitation accessible for all and to build a healthier, cleaner future.

ProAge, a pioneering advocacy-based skincare and wellness brand in the Philippines, raised critical conversations about perimenopause and menopause at its recently held forum titled “Don’t Pause for Menopause.” Hosted by TV host Suzi Entrata-Abrera, the event gathered women’s wellness experts and advocates to celebrate women who refuse to pause for menopause and ultimately spark a change in the narrative.

Suzi Entrata-Abrera, news personality, wife, mother, and TV host, moderates the discussion at the ProAge #DontPauseForMenopause media event, which aims to break the stigma on menopause and encourage women to rewrite the narrative on this reproductive stage.

“A lot of brands discuss women empowerment, but not a lot of them talk about empowering women during the perimenopausal and menopausal phases of their lives. This topic has been a taboo, but at ProAge, we aim to shatter the stigma surrounding such conversations and address the needs of women in this demographic,” said Ms. Claudine Viquiera “

Claudine Viquiera, founder of ProAge and advocate for menopause, talks about her vision, mission, and the products and support group she created for women going through Menopause.

Women usually experience uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and anxiety during perimenopause and menopause. It’s high time that we offer them solutions specifically catering to their experiences.”

Invited speakers busted myths and misconceptions about menopause and enlightened the attendees on other important truths about the topic. They also shone light on how it affects women’s overall health and how women can better handle their symptoms. Before the event ended, the speakers also answered common questions about menopause to encourage women to be more confident as they embrace the natural changes in their bodies during this stage.

Dr. Annebelle D. Aherrera, an OB-GYN and Women’s Wellness Advocate, discusses the importance, perils, and pain points women experience during their menopause journey.

Michelle Aventajado, Best Buddies Philippines Executive Director, shares her first-hand experience with menopause.

Present at the event were Dr. Annebelle D. Aherrera, OB gynecologist and a feminine wellness advocate; Michelle Aventajado, Executive Director of Best Buddies Philippines and a ProAge advocate; and Claudine Viquiera, Founder of ProAge and a menopause advocate.

By women for women: Glow naturally as you age

As a company founded by a woman in menopause herself, ProAge understands women’s pain, anxiety, and struggles at this stage. It has developed various lines of products that help with the management of their symptoms. Developed in Korea but made for Filipino skin, these offerings were specifically formulated to address menopause concerns like dryness, sensitivity, breakouts, dullness, and pigmentations.

One of its major products for instance, Meno Gummies, is a natural and non-hormonal solution designed to provide relief from brain fog, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and insomnia caused by menopause. 

ProAge also offers a wide array of skincare products, including its Be Gentle with Me Bakuchiol Serum, a milder and natural alternative to retinol derived from the leaves and seeds of the Babchi plant, which is often used in Chinese medicines. The serum brightens the skin and helps with reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

ProAge’s skincare range also has the hydrating facial cleanser No Dirty Secrets, eye cream Eye See Yah, and the Holy Grail Cica Toner. All these were made with natural, vegan, cruelty- and paraben-free ingredients, making it safe and gentle for women’s skin. With its patented ingredients, ProAge products were clinically tested and are safe for cancer patients, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to safe, efficient, and mild formulations.

“Women’s skin goes through a series of changes during menopause, therefore, they should use products that can change with them. They need skincare that is adaptive, potent, and mild, promoting resilience, self-love, and confidence during midlife and beyond,” said Claudine Viquiera

Join the movement

ProAge’s advocacy goes beyond products that address women’s needs. As a brand championing women empowerment, it has fostered a community that serves as a safe space for women to openly discuss and share their experiences as they navigate the unique challenges of perimenopause and menopause.

Attendees of the ProAge #DontPauseForMenopause media event who learned more about the health issues concerning perimenopause and menopause, the ProAge products and community which can help them throughout their journey.

Through its online community, engagement with healthcare professionals, and holding and participating in local women’s health events, ProAge is gradually breaking the taboo regarding menopause and promoting healthy discussions on women’s health and resilience.

“ProAge understands what women experience during menopause and we know that their experience with it can also affect their work, marriage, family, and even social life. Through this community, we want to empower women to embrace change naturally and live their life anew as they continue to glow naturally as they age, which we believe is a privilege,” said Claudine Viquiera

ProAge is a women-focused skincare and wellness brand that champions and addresses the needs of women in their perimenopausal and menopausal stages. By redefining beauty and wellness for this stage of life, ProAge continues to advocate for a growing but often overlooked demographic. To learn more about ProAge, visit proagebeauty.ph/.

As we approach World Mental Health Day on October 10, an international day for raising awareness on mental health, LAC Philippines is highlighting the inseparable connection between mental and physical health. As we strive for a healthier life, it's crucial to recognize that these two aspects of well-being are intricately intertwined.

Mental health conditions are a global concern, affecting approximately one in eight people worldwide as reported by the World Health Organizations (WHO). In the Philippines, according to the National Statistics Office (NSO)  mental health illnesses rank third in terms of morbidity. Studies also indicate that stress, anxiety, and depression are prevalent mental health issues in the country. These statistics underscore the need to prioritize mental health and seek support when needed. 

The Relationship of Mental Health and Physical Health

Mental health conditions can significantly impact physical health. According to a study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Mental Health, individuals with mental health disorders are at a higher risk of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Moreover, NIMH also reported that stress, anxiety, and depression can weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to infections and illnesses.

Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, stress management, and regular intake of supplements are essential components of a healthy lifestyle. These factors can contribute to both physical and mental well-being.

Taking the Holistic Approach to Health

A holistic approach to health, which encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being, is essential for optimal health outcomes. By addressing all aspects of our health, we can create a strong foundation for a fulfilling life.

In support of one’s holistic wellness journey, LAC Philippines offers a range of natural supplements that are designed to address specific needs. LAC MoodRx and LAC TriAction Sleep Formula are two examples of supplements from LAC that can contribute to overall mental health and well-being.

LAC MoodRx is a natural supplement formulated to support emotional balance and reduce stress. It contains a blend of mood-improving herbal extracts and nutrients that reduce stress, promote relaxation and serotonin production for improved memory and a boost of happiness. To further improve one’s mood and mental health, LAC also offers LAC TriAction Sleep Formula, designed to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It is made with triple layer sleep technology to promote quality sleep from start to finish. It also improves one’s day-time productivity and mood balance, naturally.

“At LAC Philippines, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. That is why we are committed to providing natural solutions to support the holistic well-being of Filipinos. By addressing both aspects of health, we can empower individuals to live happier, healthier lives,” said Evelyn Teo, Chief Marketing Officer of LAC Global. 

By incorporating supplements such as LAC MoodRx and LAC TriAction Sleep Formula to your daily routine, you can provide your body with essential nutrients and support your overall well-being, along with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep. By prioritizing both mental and physical health, you can create a stronger and more resilient version of yourself. 

Asthma or “hika” in Tagalog is a long-term lung condition that affects more than 200 million people globally. This condition is considered to be one of the world’s most common non-communicable diseases, although it is more prevalent in children who are yet to have a fully developed immune system.

Asthma attacks involve inflammation and constriction in the airways, which can be triggered by factors that vary from person to person. Some of the common symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and tightening of the chest.

If you have asthma and want to get your dose of fitness now and then, here are some exercises to get you started:

Simple Breathing Exercises

Doing some breathing exercises is one of the simplest ways you can manage your asthma symptoms every day. These exercises help open up your airways, allowing fresh air to penetrate your lungs and minimizing the burden of breathing. Some breathing exercises to consider are:

●      Diaphragmic Breathing (Belly Breathing): Breathe in through your nose and let your belly fill up with air. Breathe out through the mouth. Make sure to relax your shoulders and neck to properly position your diaphragm.

●      Pursed Lip Breathing: As with belly breathing, breathe in through your nose and breathe out with pursed lips. Make sure that you exhale twice as long to help your airways stay open longer.

●      Nasal Breathing: Slowly take deep breaths through your nose. Similar to belly breathing, you need to make sure that your belly is filled with air. This will increase your oxygen intake and help you slow down your heart rate and breathing.

Practicing these breathing exercises regularly will help get rid of the stale air that has accumulated in your lungs. As a result, your diaphragm can do its job more efficiently. Of course, it would be best to consult your doctor about medications you may need to take or what you need to avoid before attempting to do breathing exercises.

Walking, Light Jogging, or Hiking

Going on a walk or a light jog is a great way to get sunlight and fresh air for your lungs. It’s also a low-intensity exercise, so you don’t have to worry too much about minding your breathing (or your knees). If you want a more immersive experience in nature, you can opt to take a short hike instead. However, make sure that you hike in areas with a low pollen count to prevent an asthma attack.

In addition, you should ensure that you’re walking, jogging, or hiking during warm weather to prevent your symptoms from getting triggered. Cold, dry air irritates your airways, which can cause irritation and worsen your asthma symptoms. If the weather outside isn’t ideal, you can get your exercise on an indoor track or treadmill.

Cycling

Similar to walking, riding a bicycle is a gentle form of exercise that doesn’t require you to overexert yourself. It’s also a great way to keep your leg muscles in shape, plus it allows you to savor nature through a fun activity. That said, because cycling is usually done outdoors, you should make sure to avoid potential asthma triggers like pollen.

Swimming

Swimming is a great exercise for people with asthma because it builds up the muscles for breathing. Aside from the low pollen exposure, you will also be breathing warm and moist air, which is less likely to trigger adverse reactions. Moreover, some studies show that swimming can improve cardiopulmonary fitness and lung function; these can help you better manage your condition.

That said, you also need to be careful about swimming in chlorinated pools, which can trigger symptoms in some people. You may want to talk to your doctor first to see if it’s safe for you to swim in these pools and if there are any medications that can prevent adverse effects while swimming.

Yoga

Yoga is another low-impact exercise that you can practice regularly to improve your health. Yoga allows you to optimize your breathing as it involves slow inhalation and careful movements. Aside from its benefits on your physiology, doing yoga is also known to improve your mental health and quality of life. In particular, it’s helpful in reducing your stress levels and allowing you to better manage life with asthma.

A Final Word

Apart from the exercises mentioned above, you can also partake in sports as long as they are gentle on your lungs and don’t involve high-impact bursts of activity. Examples include golf and gymnastics, which provide you with intermittent breaks.

If you are in the market looking for a new car, would you know where to go?

There are a lot of factors to consider in buying a car. You check out the style, the engine performance, the cost, the materials used, the list goes on. Though it has been relatively easy for some customers to assess these factors, the pandemic added a new layer of concern.

For over two years, we have adapted to new routines - getting used to stricter protocols and ensuring safe distancing in public areas; and this affected even the car shopping experience.

 

CAR SHOPPING IN THE NEW NORMAL

Nowadays, the process of car shopping requires a lot more effort as some shops ask customers for proof of vaccination and face masks before entering a showroom, and rightly so. On top of this, the bigger risk with the presence of COVID-19 further complicates the car shopping experience.  

But despite the looming threat of the COVID-19 virus, there is a car dealership in La Union that geared up to give their employees and customers a safe space to interact. A space where the quality of clean air is maintained, and people can be protected from known and unknown viruses and bacteria.

TOYOTA LA UNION’S CHOICE IS PANASONIC

To beef up protection against these air pollutants, Toyota La Union installed Panasonic Air Conditioners in their showroom. Toyota La Union’s management chose the Panasonic Air Conditioners that have nanoe ^TM X technology, which inhibits pollutants such as bacteria and viruses including the novel coronavirus, making the space inside the area safe and protected 24/7.^[1]  

At Toyota La Union’s upgraded showroom, you can shop for cars without having to worry about the risk of touching contaminated surfaces or inhaling live viruses in the air. You can focus on the cars of your interest, as well as on the deal you are about to make.

You can also bring your family to maximize and enjoy the safest car-buying experience; from meeting with auto sales representatives to discuss your needs, to finalizing all the paperwork. There is still no better car-buying experience than kicking the tires in person. All these made possible by Toyota La Union and Panasonic Air Conditioners.

In the present when the COVID-19 virus is omnipresent, businesses like Toyota La Union set an example of how you can provide next level customer experience. Not only should businesses offer good products but ensure protection and comfort as well for their customers. You can do it too for your company with the installation of Panasonic Air Conditioners with nanoe^TM X.

Next time when you are in the market buying your new car, why not check out Toyota La Union? You are sure to get top-notch service, with a boost of virus and bacteria protection as well!

If you want to level up the protection of your business from viruses and for more information about nanoe™ and nanoe™ X technology please visit www.panasonic.com/ph/nanoe.

My most trusted brand of medicines, vitamins, and supplements is having its Super Brand Day today, August 24, on Shopee!  Para I can say goodbye sa sakit ng ulo and lagnat.  This rainy season, getting colds, cough, and even fever is quite rampant.  Sometimes, no matter how we take our daily vitamins and supplements, we still get sick.  It partly must be the weather, but stress, lack of sleep, and poor diet can also lead to lower immunity.  

Thanks to Unilab, I can say goodbye sa sakit ng ulo at lagnat! We all can even stay energized and healthy when we catch Shopee-exclusive deals on Biogesic, Neozep, up to 50% off on select Enervon, and other Unilab products on the Unilab Super Brand Day on Shopee.

Even if we're not sick at home, there's no harm in making sure my medicine cabinet is stocked with the essentials my family needs in case we get feverish, catch a cold or cough, or experience headaches.

Here are my go to meds from Unilab which I've added to cart and of course checked out as well!

1. Biogesic 20 Tablets 500mg Paracetamol (For Headache And Fever Relief):

Biogesic is the most used and most trusted oral medicine for headache and fever relief. It contains 500mg of paracetamol, an analgesic-antipyretic which can be taken on an empty stomach and can be taken by pregnant women, breastfeeding moms, the elderly. It's the safest medicine anyone could take.  My doctor and even elder relatives would only recommend Biogesic.  I personally experience almost instant relief from tension headache and it acts fast in arresting my fever.  

Purchase from Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Biogesic-20-Tablets-500mg-Paracetamol-(For-Headache-And-Fever-Relief)-i.272467617.9208121312

2. Buy 1 Enervon Tab 30s + FREE TRIAL Enervon Sugar Free 30s: 

For immunity and energy, we take Enervon tablet daily.  It contains Vitamin C for more immunity and Vitamin B for more energy. It can be used as a nutritional supplement to enhance the immune system and promote increased energy.  Especially these days, ang hirap magkasakit right?  Prevention is definitely better than cure.  Now that we're almost back to normal even if the invisible enemy is still around, it's best that we protect ourselves from getting sick easily.  Take Enervon na rin!  Also try the Enervon Sugar Free tablets!

Purchase from Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Buy-1-Enervon-Tab-30s-FREE-TRIAL-Enervon-Sugar-Free-30s-i.272467617.15446426732

3. Rainy Day Essentials 1: Biogesic 20s + Neozep 10s: 

Sometimes we really get down during the bed weather or rainy days right?  Uso pa naman ang mga typhoons sa mga panahong ito.  But, don't let the weather weigh you down! I only rely on Biogesic and Neozep to keep me from getting down during the rainy days.  We all know that Biogesic is the most used and trusted oral medicine that readily provides for headache and fever relief while Neozep is the leading cold medicine that provides fast and complete relief from cold and its symptoms. On the onset of fever and colds plus its symptoms, I take this powerful combo for quick relief.

Purchase from Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Rainy-Day-Essentials-1-Biogesic-20s-Neozep-10s-i.272467617.16876208045

I super love finding all my needs in my favorite, and I'm sure yours too, e-commerce site, Shopee!  I've compared prices, and definitely, I find items in Shopee less expensive.  I love that all my purchases are value for money kasi I get rewards pa!  Tip ko to also check your vouchers tab to see if you can get additional discounts or shopbacks and FREE shipping too!  When you also use ShopeePay, you can also get additional discounts.  Pwede rin ang buy now pay later with SPayLater!  Make sure lang to pay your dues on time ha!

Mommies, take advantage na of Unilab's Super Brand Day today on Shopee!  Add to cart and check out these products!  Stock up on your rainy days essentials!  Say goodbye to sakit ng ulo and lagnat na!  I wish you good health and wealth na rin always!

Happy Shopee-ing!

As a mom, not a day pass that I am not tired.  Sometimes I feel like I overwork myself which I know isn't a good thing.  I also realize that as I become older, the more I need to take good care of my health as a prevention,  Hence, self-care is a must! This is why we should invest in self-care essentials and this August 11 - 12, we can enjoy up to 90% off on health and lifestyle products from Bayer Consumer Health and Above Athletica for their Super Brand Day on Shopee!

Sharing with you my top brands from Bayer Consumer Health and Above Athletica: 

1. Berocca Orange Energy Vitamins

I definitely recommend Berocca (I especially can't live without this when I am sick!) to all!  It's more than just Vitamin C because it also has Vitamin B-Complex, Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc that all work together to give your body that maximum energy!  The Berocca Orange Energy Vitamins is a healthy way to to sustain your optimal physical and mental performance with energy, focus, and alertness throughout the day. 

Buy on Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Berocca-Orange-Energy-Vitamins-Effervescent-30-Tablets-i.162963265.2750921588

2. Saridon Triple Action

On days when I get tension headaches because of stress or when I get too tired, I take Saridon®  Triple Action (Paracetamol/Propyphenazone/Caffeine).  It is an analgesic/antipyretic that is used for the fast and effective relief of mild to severe headaches and other pain conditions such as toothache, menstrual discomfort, postoperative, rheumatic pain and pain and fever associated with colds and "flu".

Buy on Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Saridon-10s-Grab-N'-Go-Pack-i.162963265.3394066738

3. Sarimax Tablet

I remember when I used to work in a corporate office, I often get frozen shoulders and my back used to ache so much because of too much sitting.  I would often go to therapies and was given medication.  I took Sarimax Tablet which is used in musculoskeletal and joint disorders such as ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis including juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It is also used in dysmenorrhea, headache including migraine, postoperative pain, soft tissue disorders, acute gout, and to reduce fever.  For these things, you can count on Ssarimax Tablet.

Buy on Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Sarimax-Tablet-275mg-100s-i.162963265.17805073128

4. Just Whey Protein 1lbs 15 Servings Wheyl Nutrition

Calling out fitness enthusiasts!  The Just Whey Protein line is an all-natural, no-fuss whey protein blend. It uses a low-lactose whey protein concentrate base. Skipping all artificial ingredients and additives you don't really need, you're getting a clean and functional blend that's really high in protein.  This is highly recommended to those building muscles and are regularly working out. 

Buy on Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Just-Whey-Protein-1lbs-15-Servings-Wheyl-Nutrition-Powder-for-Muscle-Growth-Recovery-i.263674315.4234454748

5. Above Athletica Protein Shaker Bottle

For the health buds taking protein shakes, why not partner your health drinks with the Above Athletica Protein Shaker Bottle is the perfect tumbler for mixing protein shakes, smoothies, pre-workout and supplements. It's also convenient to carry and lightweight and includes a wire whisk ball mixers.

Buy them on Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Above-Athletica-Protein-Shaker-Bottle-450ml-with-Stainless-Whisk-Ball-BPA-Free-Leak-Free-i.263674315.18000303223

6. Above Athletica Sports Headband Antislip Workout Sweat Band

Part of self-care is taking care of our physique and I do that with light workouts.  The Above Athletica Sports Headband Antislip Workout Sweat Band is great for blocking salty sweat from running down your face while working out. The sweat head band also prevents your hair sticks to your forehead. It's also made of high-quality breathable stretch fabric (85% nylon, 15% polyester) and anti-slip silicone to avoid headband dropping during exercise.  Let's move more and be healthy!

Buy from Shopee here: https://shopee.ph/Above-Athletica-Sports-Headband-Antislip-Workout-Sweat-Band-Men-Women-Hairband-Running-Yoga-Cycling-i.263674315.4291986371

So this Super Brand Sale of Bayer Consumer Health and Above Athletica Super Brand Day, make sure to check out these self-care essentials and see how much you can save not only your healths, but also your budget!  

Maintain your healthy lifestyle with the help of Bayer Consumer Health and Above Athletica, available up to 90% off on Shopee this August 11-12!

Happy Shopee-ng!