You could be one of the winners of up to Php40,000 daily in Dole's promo which is ongoing until July 23 - just like these lucky Pinoys!

Dole and Seasons kicked off their ‘Cash Prizes Araw-Araw Base sa Sikat ng Araw’ promo last May 25, and many daily winners are already enjoying their prizes!

The lucky winner of Php 17,200 is Diana Non, from Taguig City. She chanced upon the promo after being a long-time follower of Dole on Facebook.

"Napanood ko yung live ni Gretchen & Robi, pinakinggan ko ang mechanics and super na-excite ako talaga. Kaya bumili agad ako ng Dole Pineapple Juice para makasali,” she said.

(“I caught Gretchen & Robi’s livestream, so I listened to the mechanics and it got me really excited. That’s why after watching the live show, I immediately purchased Dole Pineapple Juice to join,” she said.)

Non expressed her gratitude, as the money had been life-changing saying, “Sobrang laking tulong ito sa akin at sa aking pamilya, lalo na sa panahon na ito na mahirap ang hanapbuhay dahil sa pandemya. Sobrang natuwa ako kasi may tindahan ako na kakasimula lang nung January, yung perang napanalunan ko ay dinagdag ko sa puhunan ko.”

 (“This is a big help for my me and my family, especially at a time like this with the pandemic making it harder for us to make ends meet. I was really happy since I just opened up a store last January, and I added my winnings to my investment.”)

There is so much uncertainty in these times as the pandemic continues to drastically change the lives of many. Dole is committed to bringing #SunshineForAll, giving everyone the chance to win in this promo.

The odds were in favor of Ryan Jay Olpot, who took home Php 12,800. Unfortunately, Olpot is one of the millions of Filipinos who had lost their jobs to COVID-19.

“Sumali ako since nawalan ako ng work. At syempre matagal na akong bumibili ng Dole Pineapple Juice dahil bukod sa mas mura ay unsweetened siya which is healthier. Malaki ang naitulong sa amin since need ko talaga ng pambayad ng mga bills. Nakabili ako ng pagkain at mga gamot,” he shared.

 

(“I joined because I was out of work. And of course, I’ve been a long-time drinker of Dole Pineapple Juice, as it’s not only cheap but it’s also unsweetened which makes it healthier. The prize money was a big help for us, since we still need to pay bills even after I lost my job. I was also able to buy food and medicine,” he shared.)

 

 

Olpot now encourages others to join saying, “Guys sumali na kayo, dahil napakadali lang sumali at bukod sa magiging healthy sila sa mga products ng Dole ay may chance pang manalo!”

 

(“Guys, join now since it’s so easy to enter. Not only will you become healthier with Dole’s products, but you also have the chance to win in the promo!”)

 

How To Enter

Join now...the promo ends on July 23, 2021!

By simply buying any of the participating Dole and Seasons products, you can win up to Php 40,000, as long as the sun shines its brightest at the Dole Pineapple Plantation in Polomolok, South Cotabato. But whether you win or lose, all entries are qualified for the Php 1 Million Grand Dole and Season’s ‘Plantation Pachinko’--the biggest Pachinko in the world! This is definitely something that you wouldn’t want to miss this July 27.

To enter the draw, be sure to register first through Dole’s Facebook Messenger on www.facebook.com/Doleph. Send your complete name, age, complete address, and mobile number. You can make an entry for every purchase of a participating Dole and Seasons product.

 

Increase your chances of winning by buying as many Dole and Seasons participating products, and timing the submission of your entries on the day that the sun shines brightest in Polomolok, South Cotabato. (Check the weather there on accuweather.com.)

 

Participating Dole products are the new Dole Sparkling Juice Drink (Strawberry, Lemon Lime, Cucumber and Passion Fruit), the new All Natural Seasons (Pineapple Banana, Pineapple Coconut, Pineapple Mango and Pineapple Orange Juice) in 1L Tetra Pak, Dole 100 percent Pineapple Juice, Dole Pineapple Orange Juice Drink, and All Natural Seasons Tropical Fruit Cocktail.

 

Visit https://www.facebook.com/Doleph to learn more about the promo, and to catch the latest updates. 

For someone who had experienced being infected by COVID, I would like to stress how important it is to boost our immunities by being proactive when it comes to health. After recovering from Covid, I realized the hard truth what "Health is Wealth" truly means. Whether physical, mental. or emotional, we need to make sure they are in tip top shape.

Boosting one's immunity has a lot to do with eating healthily and taking vitamins and supplements such as Puritan’s Pride. It's one  of the leading health supplement brands in the US, brought here into our country. Since coming to the  Philippines in 2015, Puritan’s Pride has quickly established a solid following in the country with its  wide range of vitamins and health supplements to meet various health needs. 

Camille Prats, Puritan Pride's Official Ambassador for #HealthIsEveryday

As people navigate the new normal, Puritan’s Pride is promoting its #HealthIsEveryday campaign  with Camille Prats as official ambassador. Camille, who values good health by prioritizing her fitness routine, shares Puritan’s Pride vision,  as she inspires others to achieve a better and healthier lifestyle.  

A working mom of three, Camille religiously takes her supplements daily. Her daily routine  includes Puritan’s Pride’s Hydrolyzed Collagen, which has helped keep her skin, hair, and nails  healthy and has aided in alleviating signs of aging. To ensure that she has adequate rest, she  takes Melatonin, which supports restful sleep and helps regulate moods. She also takes immune  health boosters such as Puritan’s Pride’s Vitamin C with Citrus Bioflavonoids and Rose Hips,  which provides antioxidant support and prevents aging; Vitamin D3, a more potent and  bioavailable form of vitamin which supports bone health; and Zinc Gluconate, which assists in the  proper functioning of insulin and promotes healthy skin, vision, and smell. 

Camille takes these necessary steps to ensure that she is always ready and prepared to take on  daily tasks and protect her family from diseases, which Puritan’s Pride also advocates for. The  #HealthIsEveryday campaign encourages holistic wellness practices that combine a healthy diet,  an active lifestyle, and of course, ensuring that we meet our daily vitamin requirements with the  help of their wide range of supplements. Through its affordable line of high-quality health  supplements, Puritan’s Pride makes healthy living a reality for thousands of Filipinos. In fact, A  Healthy Life for Every Juan is the guiding vision of Alphacommerce Corporation, which introduced  Puritan’s Pride to the Philippines in 2015 and continues to democratize access to good health  and wellness among Filipinos. 

“Staying healthy is a form of self-love, and is also an act of love and concern for others. I choose  to stay well and healthy for my family, so that we can all get through these tough times, and so  that we can enjoy what life has to offer,” she said. 

Staying well and healthy is a must to get through these trying times. “Through the  #HealthIsEveryday campaign, we want to encourage more Filipinos to start living healthier lives,  and we want them to know that Puritan’s Pride can be someone they can depend on to support  their various health needs,” Jedrick Gatpayat, General Manager of Puritan’s Pride Philippines. 

Puritan's Pride is available nationwide in select Watsons stores, and online at Lazada, Shopee,  Zalora, BeautyMNL and Watsons Online.

I may be busy with motherhood and work at home but I never forget to do skincare and also apply some pretty colors on my face in the morning.  I got this from my mom who was always prepared to face the day, and just about anyone, because she looks amazing!

Whether for scheduled virtual events, Zoom meetings or just to feel good, I apply some pop of colors on my eyes, cheeks and lips.  And what I never go without are perfectly lined natural-looking eye brows!  One of the make-up brands I trust to look good with is blk cosmetics, and they are on SALE on Shoppe!!!!

I've already added to cart a complete set to make enhance my facial features more!  Here are some of the best deals you can find from blk Cosmetics Official Store on Shopee:

Blk cosmetics Fresh Sunkissed LED Mirror Beauty Fridge Set

Chill anywhere. Bring beauty everywhere you go with this travel-ready beauty fridge containing all of your blk Fresh Sunkissed essentials. Bonus: It comes with an LED mirror for easy touch-ups!

What’s in the kit: blk cosmetics Fresh Sunkissed Shimmer Jelly Multi-Pot Golden Hour (Glow and Blush), Fresh Sunkissed Creamy All-Over Paint (Poolside, Summer Time, Golden Hour, Palm Springs), Fresh Sunkissed Gloss Gel Tint (Poolside, Summer Time, Golden Hour, Palm Springs), Fresh Sunkissed Volume Boost Waterproof Mascara, and  Fresh Sunkissed LED Beauty Fridge (with 3 Light Setting)

Buy it here: blk-cosmetics-Fresh-Sunkissed-LED-Mirror-Beauty-Fridge-Set         

Blk cosmetics Fresh Sunkissed Face, Eyes, & Lips Set

Summer Ready Essentials. Soak up the sun in style with these summer must-haves boxed set featuring the Fresh Sunkissed Creamy All-Over Paint and Glow Gel Tint—both in the vibrant Palm Springs shade—as well as the Volume Boost Waterproof Mascara. 

What’s in the kit: blk cosmetics Fresh Sunkissed Shimmer Jelly Multi-Pot Golden Hour in Glow, Fresh Sunkissed Creamy All-Over Paint in Palm Springs, and Volume Boost Waterproof Mascara!

Buy it on sale HERE: https://shopee.ph/blk-cosmetics-Fresh-Sunkissed-Face-Eyes-Lips-Set-i.62677292.9540761873      

Blk Cosmetics x Solenn Full Set with Acrylic Tray

• blk cosmetics x Solenn Multi Palette Free Spirit
• blk cosmetics x Solenn All-Day Matte Lipstick Sunset Lace
• blk cosmetics x Solenn All-Day Matte Lipstick Cattleya
• blk cosmetics x Solenn Multi Palette Mystic Dreamer
• blk cosmetics x Solenn All-Day Matte Lipstick Little Missy
• blk cosmetics x Solenn All-Day Matte Lipstick Moonfire
• Limited Edition Acrylic Tray

Buy it HERE: Blk-Cosmetics-x-Solenn-Full-Set-w-Acrylic-Tray-i.62677292.5079296509

Blk cosmetics Travels Mini All-Day Intense Matte Lipstick Set of 2 New York/ London 

Collectors Edition All-Day Intense Matte LipSet NY and London #blktravels Collector’s Edition Mini Lipsticks

Put “gorgeous” on your itinerary no matter where you’re going with these special travel-sized lipstick sets! Inspired by our travel-happy fans and the countless destinations where blk has been spotted, these new mini lippies are guaranteed keep your beauty routine uncomplicated so you can always be ready to conquer the world in style.  

New York

Made for tough gals and modern go-getters, this bold brown stands for the grit, strength, and courage it takes to go after your dreams—be it finishing your first full marathon, thriving in the urban jungle, or simply stepping out of your comfort zone.

London

A beautiful brick red, this lipstick represents more than just the European city’s rich history and culture of royalty. Inspired by the red cross of the Union flag, it’s the shade of unwavering passion, of never giving up, of the beauty of struggle—and the victory that comes after. "

Buy it HERE: blk-cosmetics-Travels-Mini-All-Day-Intense-Matte-Lipstick-Set-of-2-New-York-London    

Blk cosmetics All-Day Intense Matte Lipstick Fearless 

Meet your matte. Think intense color at first swipe, a true matte finish—zero sheen, just all-out boldness—and a non-drying, all-day wear. Our winning formula, which is enriched with Vitamin E and camellia oil, moves comfortably with your lips, never caking or feathering as you go from day to night.

But it HERE: Blk-cosmetics-All-Day-Intense-Matte-Lipstick-Fearless    

Blk cosmetics K-Beauty Creamy All-Over Paint Strawberry

Hey there, sweet cheeks! Meet our foolproof, K-style liquid blush. The light, silky texture melts on skin seamlessly, delivering a soft veil of color with a healthy, second-skin finish. Use the wide applicator to finger-paint on cheeks—it’s hard to accidentally apply too much.

Buy it HERE: blk-cosmetics-K-Beauty-Creamy-All-Over-Paint-Strawberry

So whar are you waiting for mamas!  Add to cart these amazing deals from Blk's Official Store on Shopee to get discounts and Free gifts as well!  Remember, no matter how busy you may be from back to back household chores and virtual meetings, never forget to paint your face with quality make-up products that doesn't harm you and the environment!  Check out Blk this 7.7 Mid-year Sale on Shopee!

I'm so excited to share that P&G Beauty and Olay will be offering the best deals this coming 7.7 Mid-Year Sale at Shopee!  It's the best time to add to cart your favorite P&G self-care products on Shopee!  You all know how very vocal I am about self-care or making time for ourselves no matter how motherhood has taken us to the next level of busyness.

Sharing with you some P&G Beauty products that I've already added to cart!

Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Anti Dandruff Shampoo 850ML Trio

My boys have been using Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Anti Dandruff Shampoo for years.  It's a staple haircare product that always finds its way to my cart every grocery schedule.  Brought to you by the World's #1 Selling Anti Dandruff Brand, Head and Shoulders Cool Menthol shampoo keeps you dandruff and itch free for up to 72 hours. Use it everyday to prevent dandruff and itch from coming back.

The cooling sensation helps a lot in relieving itch.  Even if there's no more itch, they just love the relaxing feeling of coolness on their scalp.  It's also best to use Head and Shoulders Anti Dandruff Conditioner for the whole experience.

Buy it here: https://shopee.ph/product/73395170/1912459462/

Safeguard Pure White Body Wash (720mL) Trio

This pandemic has taught us how important being clean is.  One of our musts after coming from outside is to immediately shower and use a product that can help not only clean but also removes germs on our bodies.  Just seconds after washing, germs can get back on your hands and body. That is why caring for our hygiene is such an important routine to stay healthy and safeguard our loved ones. The next step would be to choose a product that can protect you wherever you go!

For body wash, my first choice will always be Safeguard Pure White Body Wash because it does not only remove 99.9% of germs, but continues to protect after wash.  That's what I love about this because with Safeguard, I'm sure that I can protect my family as it offers superior germ protection, while not compensating on their skin health. Safeguard is tough on germs, yet gentle on our skin. 

Buy it here: https://shopee.ph/product/73395170/1875790661/

Pantene Pro-V Total Damage Care Shampoo 680mL Trio

I just recently cut and colored my hair ash blonde.  Coloring my hair made my locks more prone to dryness and damage.  Pantene Total Damage Care Shampoo repairs 10 visible signs of damage!   It has has a unique Pro-Vitamin formula, which penetrates deep into the core, leaving hair feeling smoother. It's your go-to shampoo for damaged hair and prevention of it. 

Unlike ordinary shampoos that only remove impurities, Pantene's breakthrough technology with Pro-Vitamins, also infuses hair with lipids and anti-oxidants, and nourishes from within.  It's designed for everyday use to give you a Great Hair Day Everyday and best when used with Pantene Total Damage Care Conditioner.

 This Total Damage Care shampoo deeply nourishes severely damaged hair and helps prevent future damage and split ends for up to 3 months.  While its Pro-Vitamin formula blended with antioxidants and lipids, helps improve hair's retention of protein structure to help reduce damage progression.

I love its nourishing texture and luxurious lather.  Pantene is the only haircare brand certified by Swiss Vitamin institute and World's No 1 Conditioner Brand.

Buy it here: https://shopee.ph/product/73395170/4504196686/

Olay White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum 30mL

I'm quite meticulous about my facial skincare which I've started in my early 20s.  Now that I'm in my 40s, serums are one of my best friends.  The NEW Olay White Radiance Niacinamide + Vitamin C Super Serum Brightening Skincare is powered by Niacinamide that reduces dark spots for even glow. Its concentrated formula is non- greasy and absorbs quickly while penetrating 10 skin surface layers deep to reveal an even skin tone and texture.  I love how it has improved my skin by addressing my uneven skin tone and dark spots.  It also works best with Olay Essence Water and Moisturizer.

Buy it here: https://shopee.ph/product/221352938/7369177119/

I'm pretty much covered already when it comes to self-care for myself and caring for my loved ones as well.  Glad that these P&G Beauty products plus Olay are on sale this coming 7.7 Mid-Year Sale!  So what are you waiting for loves!  Add to cart na and take advantage of all these best deals on SHOPEE's 7.7 Mid-Year SALE!!! 

As Filipinos navigate through the extended impact of the pandemic, the need for care is at an all-time high. Whether it’s self-care at an individual level or the rise of community pantries inspiring the nation to show care at a collective level, there’s no denying that every act of care goes a long way in helping Filipinos power through the toughest of times.

With this in mind, Unilever joins forces with Lazada yet again to unite Filipinos together for the fourth consecutive year of their Shop2Give Super Brand Day Sale happening this July 2. Entitled “Shop2Give Care”, this year’s installment aims to further ignite the spirit of caring by bringing forward the season of giving, with the earliest celebration of Christmas to date.

On July 2, Unilever and Lazada give online shoppers an early Christmas treat through exclusive discounts and offers on your favorite Unilever brands Surf, Dove, TRESemmé, Cream Silk, Pond’s, Breeze, Knorr and many more. Families in need will also be given the gift of an early Christmas as a portion of the proceeds will go towards support for the education programs of UNICEF Philippines and provision of household essentials in line with Gawad Kalinga’s Barangay Walang Iwanan Community Initiative.

UNICEF has been a long-standing partner of both Lazada and Unilever. “We at UNICEF are grateful to Unilever and Lazada for their continuous support by giving more Filipino children the opportunity to have brighter futures,” Isy Faingold, Chief of Education of UNICEF Philippines, remarked. “COVID-19 has created a major disruption in the education system in the Philippines, most especially in early childhood education. The funds raised from this campaign will provide educational supplies for the youngest children and will support their parents and caregivers to conduct home-based development and learning activities with a focus in the most disadvantaged areas”.

 

A new addition to the Shop2Give campaign is its commitment to extend care for communities in partnership with Gawad Kalinga. In line with their thrust to help alleviate poverty in the Philippines, Gawad Kalinga established the Barangay Walang Iwanan initiative, a platform to help the less fortunate through employment, donations, volunteerism or even integration into business value-chains.

 

“We are thrilled to be part of the Shop2Give campaign, and are excited to witness the Filipino spirit of bayanihan come to life in this early season of giving. With the help of Unilever Philippines, Lazada, and of course, the rest of the community, we will be able to help improve the quality of life of 30 communities by providing them with much needed essential food, personal care and home care items,” shares Daniel R. Bercasio, Executive Director of Gawad Kalinga.

An Early Christmas Party

 

In celebration of the earliest Christmas, Unilever goes live on Lazada for a two-hour livestream party on July 2. Hosted by Macoy Averilla and Bea Arboleda and a special performance from Ian Pangilinan, the livestream is sure to excite online shoppers as they add to cart and check out on the official sale day. Surprise vouchers will also be revealed at different times during the livestream.

 

“Lazada is thrilled to join forces once again with Unilever this year in support of UNICEF Philippines and Gawad Kalinga. As a leading e-commerce platform in the country, we are committed to providing Filipinos access to essential items and also extending care to those in need,” says Ray Alimurung, Lazada Philippines’ CEO.

 

Shop2Give Care and enjoy exclusive offers

Early Christmas treats await shoppers at the Shop2Give Care sale with the following offers:

●        Exclusive discounts up to 50% off on select items

●        Instant P500 off* and more exclusive vouchers to be collected in store

●        All-day FREE SHIPPING, 0 min. spend

●        All-day FREE GIFT with purchase, min. spend P499

 

Christmas begins on July 2. Celebrate the earliest Christmas ever with Unilever, in partnership with Lazada, and in support of UNICEF Philippines and Gawad Kalinga. For more information on Unilever and Lazada’s Shop2Give Care sale, visit the Unilever Philippines Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UnileverPhilippines/. Visit the Unilever Shop2Give Care Lazada page as well to add to cart now! https://tinyurl.com/Shop2GiveCare

When it comes to purchasing appliances for our current home and future new home, I always choose practicality.  How?  By making sure that it's value-for-money and that I pay for the right and useful benefits for our family and for our planet.

I'm happy to know that we discovered Beko, a new brand that's all that - quality, practical, and environment and planet-friendly.  Beko, Europe’s no. 1 home appliances brand, remains committed to sustainability and saving the planet as part of its mission to empower next generations to live healthier lives.

Beko continues to do its part in protecting planet earth by designing and manufacturing innovative sustainable appliances and will soon launch eco-friendly appliances supported by three key pillars, including use of recycled materials, use of bio-composites and products that use fewer chemicals.

Beko's line of sustainability home appliances

The big picture is that Beko’s corporate culture goes beyond just making and selling appliances.

“We are passionate about making sustainability affordable and accessible. This way the environmental benefits of our products are spread across the globe and are not just merely a luxury. With this in mind, developing new technologies enabling lower cost of sustainability is our number one priority,” said Gürhan Günal, Country Manager of Beko Pilipinas Corporation.

Arçelik

Arçelik, Beko’s parent company, has robust systems in place for increasing the reparability and recyclability of its products, and for sustainable productivity practices such as energy efficiency and reducing supply chain environmental impact.

Arçelik has accomplished important milestones around its sustainability efforts.

It has been ranked 34 on Corporate Knights' 2021 Global 100 Index, the annual ranking of the world's 100 most sustainable corporations which looks at the performance of companies with more than $1 billion in revenues. This ranking makes Arçelik the most sustainable home appliance and houseware company in the world.

In 2019 and 2020, Arçelik became a carbon-neutral company across its global production operations via carbon credits earned through the Carbon Financing Project. Last year, it was named industry leader in the Household Durables category in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index. Arçelik has been included in the category for the fourth year in a row.

Arçelik is recognized as a "Top Impact Company” by Real Leaders for efficient use of resources and circular economy solutions to develop smart technologies, promote healthier lifestyles and empower local communities.

This year, Arçelik has been awarded as Gold Class and Industry Mover by S&P Global.

Furthermore, Arcelik’s 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets are approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative in line with the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting temperature increase to well below 2°C. By 2030, 100% of the electricity used in production plants around the world will come from renewable sources, waste recycling will have increased to 99% in global operations, recycled plastic content will have increased to 40% and energy and water consumption per product will have decreased by 45%.

“With this in mind, developing new technologies enabling lower cost of sustainability is our number one priority. Beko’s goal is to eventually incorporate these sustainability measures into all our products. Beko’s brand purpose is empowering future generations to live healthier lives – which is only possible by living more sustainably and working towards a healthier planet. All of our actions and every product we use has an impact on nature. So beyond this seven-product portfolio, we are eager to adapt our existing technologies to make all our appliances more environmentally friendly, too,” said Gürhan Günal, Country Manager of Beko Philippines Corp.

With its parent company Arçelik, Beko will continue to increase investment in energy efficiency and renewable energy systems and be consistent in minimizing operational and supply chain environmental impact.

“Beko is committed to protecting our Mother Earth by designing and manufacturing energy-efficient products and investing in resource efficiency in production. Beko encourages its competitors to follow suit,” said Günal.

With all these great news about Beko and its parent company, Arcelik, I'm certain that Beko is going to be the next big thing in home appliances in the Philippine setting.  For more information, follow them on Facebook and also on Instagram 

Like most of you, I've always been extra careful when going out AND I DONT USUALLY GO OUT- I wear face masks, face shields, practice exaggerated social distancing, and almost bathe myself with alcohol - because I fear getting the virus.  I never became relaxed with these health protocols.  But sadly, I still tested positive last April.  

Second day since I showed symptoms, I had a high-grade fever which I thought was just regular flu.

At first I was in denial and thought it was just a regular flu.  It was a huge mistake to begin with because I didn't immediately isolate myself and exposed other people in the household including my 80 year old dad and my kids.

I experienced a number of Covid symptoms such as fever, terrible body pains especially my back, severe headache, dry cough, colds, and diarrhea.  Thank God, I didn't lose my sense of smell and taste.  Four days from the first show of symptoms, I decided to be tested.  I came home and just started to isolate then.

I decided to do RT-PCR test on my 4th day since symptoms came out at Chinese General Hospital.

GUILT - BLAME - ANGER

When the result came out POSITIVE the following day, my heart shattered to pieces.  I felt GUILTY and BLAMED myself for not isolating the moment I had fever.  I exposed my senior dad who is at high risk which may cause fatality.  I exposed my three kids, 2 of whom are below 10.  They all had antigen test immediately, my 2 kids, my nephew, and my dad tested positive.  The doctor advised to do RT PCR tests on them, praise God, the result yielded negative results. Immediately my dad, brother and nephew evacuated and stayed with my brother.  We decided that I do home care instead of staying in an LGU-assigned quarantine facility.  Days after my eldest progressed with Covid symptoms and also isolated himself in another room.

MENTAL and EMOTIONAL CHALLENGES

It's true that Covid doesn't only affect you physically, it affects the mental and emotional health of the patient.  3-4 days into isolation, I had a breakdown.  I wanted to scream, cry, go out of the room, it was like I couldn't contain my emotions, and my thoughts.  

These are just some of my medication and supplements while in isolation, recovering from Covid.

FEAR and ANXIETIES took over me.  What if my symptoms progress?  What if my oxygen saturation dropped? What if I need to be brought to the hospital - hospitals reached full capacity during that time.  What if this is the end of me?  I would have anxiety attacks each time I would check my temperature and oxygen saturation 3x a day.  I almost couldn't sleep well at night for overthinking.

TURNING POINT

I knew I had to do something about my fears and anxieties.  I turned to my one true healer - God.  I reminded myself that HE IS IN CONTROL.  I surrendered my Covid illness, fears, anxieties, guilt, to Him and rested in peace every night holding on to His promise of complete healing.  I have to let go of self-pity, guilt, blaming myself, and fear that were not helpful to my situation.

Daily video calls with my husband and kids and nightly prayer time sustained me while in isolation.

I listened to a Praise and Worship playlist of songs which greeted me every morning and puts me to sleep at night.  I announced and let everybody know that I was Covid-positive.  I broke free from fear of discrimination and self-pity.  Letting people know allowed them to practice kindness, compassion, concern, and show support.  Family and friends reached out and had food delivered and sent messages of concerns and even prayed for me and my family.  I surrounded myself with positive and filtered the negative.  I joined Covid-Survivors and Covid Home Care Facebook Groups to encourage other patients like me.  I talked to other friends who were also Covid positive that time but didn't want people to find out.  It became a mission to comfort them the way God's promise of healing comforted me.  I shared my experiences, encouraged them, and prayed for them as well while I was recovering from Covid.

FEELING OF GRATITUDE

Amidst having Covid, the GUILT, SELF-BLAMING, FEAR, ANXIETIES turned to GRATITUDE.  I am thankful Covid happened to me and not my husband who has asthma, I can't imagine if it happened to him.  Though one of my children got infected with the virus, God allowed my eldest who's physically fit and strong among the three, to have it and survive it too.  I'm thankful that even if the LGU or Barangay didn't handle Antigen and RT-PCR expenses, God blessed us enough to be able to afford a number of tests.  I'm thankful to have a cousin doctor who monitored me all throughout my 20 day isolation and recovery, and decided to do an aggressive management of the illness.  I'm grateful that because of the experience, my younger son stepped up and became the bigger brother- doing household chores and caring for the youngest too. I'm grateful to be in a position to openly talk about Covid on my platforms and turn their focus not on the illness and their fears alone but to God who's the greatest healer, our miracle worker, promise keeper, and light in the darkness, who's orchestrating everything that's happening to us, be it Covid or something else.  

Family reunited after my and my eldest's Covid recovery.  Praise God for His complete healing!

FORGIVENESS, ACCEPTANCE, AND LOVE

Along the process of recovery and healing, I've forgiven and stopped blaming myself for having Covid and risking my senior dad and my kids.  I've accepted the illness and turned the experience into something beautiful because I have something to talk about to encourage people and turn their eyes upon Jesus.  I now practice more self-love by eating well, embracing the sunlight, exercising, and become appreciative of people in my life - especially my family.   The Covid experience reminded me that indeed life is too short to be too occupied with things that we think matter a lot be it profession or possessions.   The experience reminded me to set my focus on what truly matters, my family and fortifying my relationship with God.  Praise God for His complete healing and for restoring me.  To God be the glory!

Mark your calendars mommies on June 6, 2:00 - 3:30PM for Shopee's 6.6 - 7.7 Mid-Year TV Special on GMA 7 and Shopee Live!

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, invites everyone to enjoy exciting deals, prizes, and performances at the Shopee 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale TV Special, Shopee’s biggest TV Show to date. Filipinos can watch the fiesta themed-celebration, broadcast live from Araneta Coliseum.

You can also enjoy free shipping, daily ₱1 deals, up to 20% cashback, and more at Shopee’s 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale, until July 7!

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Shopee welcomes the second half of the year with a bang as we launch the Shopee 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale. We’re proud of all the milestones we’ve achieved in the first half of the year, and starting with this campaign, we look forward to reaching new ones. With our supersized 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale and TV Special, Shopee aims to spread joy to Filipinos, cater to their needs, and remain a valued partner to our brands and sellers.”

 

3 THINGS TO WATCH FOR DURING SHOPEE'S 6.6 - 7.7 MID-YEAR TV SPECIAL:

 ●     Over ₱15 million worth of prizes

During the TV Special, viewers can catch three Shopee Shake sessions, where they can win either ₱300,000 and a Chery Tiggo 2; ₱500,000 and a Chery Tiggo 2; or a BMW X3. One lucky Shopee Milyonaryo winner can also claim the ₱1,000,000 jackpot prize, plus a house and lot sponsored by Frontrow. Aside from cash prizes and giveaways, viewers can claim over ₱7,000,000 worth of vouchers from Shopee.

 ●     Exciting appearances from local and international celebrities

K-Pop fans can tune in to the star-studded TV Special to watch Korea’s hottest rising boy group, Treasure, as they perform hits such as “I Love You,” “MMM,” and “My Treasure.” Viewers can also catch local celebrities such as Shopee brand ambassador Willie Revillame, who will also be hosting the show; Jennylyn Mercado; Rhian Ramos; Michele Gumabao; Glaiza de Castro; Mikael Daez; Mark Herras; Gloc-9; Sef Cadayona; Skusta Clee; Flow G; Mark Maglasang; and finally John Lloyd Cruz, who is set to make his TV comeback since his hiatus in 2017.

 ●     Big promotions from leading brands

Shoppers should stay tuned during the show to enjoy exclusive flash deals from go-to household, food, and tech brands such as Huawei, Reckitt, GSK, Pampers, Domino's, Bonchon, Century, SC Johnson, OPPO, Potato Corner, Globe, Smart, and Moonleaf.

 

Shopee 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale

Users can enjoy free shipping with no minimum spend, daily ₱1 deals, and 20% cashback on several categories at Shopee 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale, which runs until July 7.

Shoppers can look forward to discounts up to 90% off on brands such as:

Shoppers can also easily top up their ShopeePay wallets through their debit cards and other convenient channels to enjoy more promotions such as:

●     A chance to win ₱20,000 by topping up a minimum of ₱300 on June 5

●     Free shipping with no minimum spend and up to 66% coins cashback on June 6

●     ₱10 worth of data for only ₱1 on June 6

●     Up to 25% cashback on bills payment

●     ₱1 Deals from brands such as McDonald’s, Jollibee, Chowking, and more

For more information on the Shopee 6.6-7.7 Mid-Year Sale, visit https://shopee.ph/m/6-6

Going out and transacting in crowded indoor areas such as banks and remittance centers is the last thing my Titas want to do these days.  I’m sure you all know why.  Doing that is risking a lot and if you’re a mom or person with an existing illness, you wouldn’t want to take chances.  

I usually send money to my friends and relatives in the provinces for many reasons such as payment for goods or services, sending monetary gifts during special occasions, sending money as financial help during pandemic, or pabili of pasalubongs or delicacies from the province.

As a mom myself, I don’t want to risk their health and wellness just to receive money from me for whatever reason.  So we’ve drawn some methods on how to safely send and receive money.  

Here are some safer ways to send and receive money to/from the province:

1. Online or Mobile Banking – If your friends or relatives have a bank account and uses online or mobile banking, then this is a safe way to transact.  It’s fast and sends money from the comforts of your home to the recipient in an instant.  Mind you though, a transaction fee is charged for every transfer of money.  Also, this is only applicable to persons with existing bank accounts.

2. E-wallet sending – This is another option to safely send and receive money.  An example of this is PayMaya.  All you have to do is to download the PayMaya app via Play Store or Apple Store, register, upload a vailid ID and take selfie as part of the requirements.  Validation and approval may take a while.  I always use this option for sending money to my friends or relatives in provinces because it’s really convenient.  But not all of them have an e-wallet, so tip #3 is the best solution for safe fund sending.

3. PayMaya To Smart Padala – If your friends or relatives don’t have a bank account for online or mobile banking or a PayMaya account, don’t worry.  Here’s another way to safely send money to them.  Send money from your PayMaya to a Smart Padala account.  This is the best solution for those who don’t have a bank or e-wallet accounts.  No need to go out to remittance centers to receive the money you sent.  They just need to get the 16-digit Smart Padala number of the nearest sari-sari store where you will input in your PayMaya when transacting.

I tried sending money to my Tita Fely in Davao who’s not techy and wants things done manually and traditionally.  I know you have this kind of Tita or Tito too right?  She recently celebrated her birthday and instead of sending her a gift via courier, it’s faster and more convenient to just send her money so she could buy what she wants.  I sent it using my PayMaya account to a Smart Padala number she sent me.

Here’s how:

1. Open your PayMaya account and choose SEND MONEY.

2. Enter Mobile or Account Number of SMART PADALA  agent you’re sending the money to.  

3. Enter the amount of money you’re sending.  You may even include a personalized message.

4. Click continue and check all details.  Then press SEND.

5. You’ll receive an app and text notification that you’ve successfully sent money to the Smart Padala account number.  

   
   
   

6. Take note of the Reference Number and send this to your friend or relative recipient.

7. Your friend/relative will go to their trusted Smart Padala agent (where you transferred the funds), bring one (1) valid ID, bring mobile phone, and shows the reference number you sent her as proof of transaction.

8. Voila!  She receives the money safely and conveniently.

I love how safe and convenient sending and receiving money is via Smart Padala.  This is a powerful solution to people who don’t have a bank account or e-wallet accounts.  Like my Tita who’s not techy, doesn’t want to go out to crowded remittance centers, or who doesn’t have a bank account – SMART PADALA is their ally.

PAYMAYA PROMO – Get a chance to win monthly grocery budget!

What’s more is that PayMaya has an ongoing promo until June 18, 2021 where PayMaya users who send money via Smart Padala could win monthly grocery budget!  To earn a raffle entry, just send a minimum of Php1000 to a Smart Padala number during the promo period.  First sending gives you five (5) raffle entries, succeeding transactions give you one (1) raffle entry.  31 winners will be chosen to win monthly grocery budget of P10,000 and even P100,000 in the grand draw!

So when you’re sending money to relatives especially in the province, choose the safe and smart way!  Choose sending via PayMaya to Smart Padala!  Not only it is convenient, it could also get you a chance to win monthly grocery budget!  Winner!  For more details, follow PayMaya on Facebook and Instagram.