COVID, Education, Event, Healthy Living, Lifestyle, Operation, Parenting

11 ANTI-COVID INNOVATIONS BY HOTEL SOGO

1. UVC Disinfection of Rooms, Utensils, Key Cards & Cash
-Sogo was the first hotel, as early as March 2020, to use UVC (254nm) to fight Covid-19. Taking the cue from hospitals abroad, remote-controlled carts have been deployed for room disinfection. Compartments for utensils, key cards and cash were also fitted with UVC LEDs but kept away from personnel since 254 nm UVCs, while great for killing viruses may harm the skin and eyes.

2. FAR UVC Disinfection at Elevator Lobbies
-After extensive research, Sogo has acquired and tested the FAR UVC 222 nm lamps that effectively kill viruses while being harmless to humans. Just recently (2020 Q4) produced commercially, it is quite expensive and is sold by only a few manufacturers abroad. Sogo is the first hotel to install these revolutionary excimer lamps in all its elevator lobbies.

3. UVC Disinfection for Room Aircons
-All room aircons are to be fitted with specially manufactured UVC LEDs. Through germicidal irradiation, the UVC light attacks the DNA/DNR of micro-organisms, killing bacteria and viruses, and preventing their spread. As it is turned on with the aircon, room air is always sterilized each time it passes through the unit, ensuring the best possible room air quality for our guests.

4. Ventilation ACR is Doubled in Lobbies & Hallways
-The ACR (Air Change Rate) or the number of times the air is replaced for all general spaces is set at ≥ 4 per hour by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating & Air-Conditioning Engineers). Sogo is doubling its current ACRs for intensified inflow of covid-free fresh air to accelerate indoor air replacement.

5. Covid Sniffer Dogs for Screening of Employees
-Dubai and Helsinki Airports have deployed Covid sniffer dogs to screen passengers and report a > 94% accuracy rate with dogs detecting the virus days before symptoms even start. Sogo has tied up with a leading K9 company, to have specially-trained Belgian Malinois dogs regularly screen its personnel for Covid.

6. Thermal Scan Controlled Doors
-For most branches, guests on their own, can get scanned before entry and if within the safe temperature limit, main doors will open automatically without need of any contact.

7. Microbial ATP Fluorescence Testing of Surfaces
-ATP (Adenosine TriPhosphate) Testing measures ATP content to indicate the presence and amount of microorganisms. Each branch has an Anti-Covid Team that regularly swabs high touch point surfaces that pass through ATP Fluorescence Detectors to verify microbial presence and effectivity of the new protocols.

8. Anti-Microbial Coatings on Furnishings, Fixtures & Touch Points
-Widely used in hospitals and mass transports in China, Hong Kong and Japan, these Polymer coatings are formed after spraying millions of nano-capsules with contact killing and anti-adhesion features that lasts for weeks. It effectively kills bacteria and viruses, including H1N1 and Covid. Sogo applies this over all furnishings and touch points.

9. Reduced Touch Points with No-Contact Fixtures (with photos of no-contact fixtures)
-A Sogo study shows that pre-pandemic, guests had a minimum of 59 Touch Points (TPs) during a typical hotel stay. Due to new protocols that include contact-less fixtures, TPs have been reduced by 40.7% with the goal to achieve a reduction of 66.1% with more advanced technology centered on cellphone use.

10. Multi-Stage Air Purifying Equipment in Lobbies
-To further sanitize indoor air, Sogo installed air-purifying equipment having several levels of filters: Pre-filter, Activated Carbon, HEPA (H11), with built-in Cold Catalysts, Ion Generators and UVC lights that eliminate allergens and pollutants such as dust, pollen, odor, bacteria, viruses, and even reduces carbon dioxide levels.

11. No-Contact Key
-Specially designed key (keychain) to avoid touching. This is one of our giveaways included in some of our promos.

Ang SOGO nag-iingat, parang Pag-iingat mo!

❤️ Mama Farrah

Charity, Education, Event, Lifestyle, Parenting, Product Launch

LG Shares the Good Life with Shelter of Hope

During the holidays late last year, LG, together with Netflix, held an intimate launch event for their Christmas animated feature film Klaus. True to the holiday spirit and the lessons ingrained in the movie, LG pledged to donate over 1 Million pesos worth of Home Appliances to Shelter of Hope/Silungan ng Pag-Asa, a temporary home of cancer-stricken kids from provinces.

The donations, which included a wide range of home appliances that will vastly improve the quality of life and enjoyment in the children’s home, was recently formally turned over into a small gathering to celebrate the month of love, as well as World Cancer Day which fell on Feb 4th. LG Managing Director Inkwun Heo, together with #TeamLG, gave the donations to Pastor Junior Antiñero of Shelter of Hope.

LG Managing Director Inkwun Heo and Pastor Junior Antiñero

“It is our privilege to be partners with Shelter of Hope. The bravery and strength of these children is something we can all look up to. To be able to give them happiness, no matter how small, is a goal that we constantly work towards for.” Mr. Heo said.

Pastor Junior gamely accepted LG’s gift. “We are deeply grateful of LG’s unwavering support for our cause. I, and more importantly the children, really appreciate it.”

After the donations were given away, the children from Shelter of Hope gave the audience a heartwarming treat with a moving performance.

The donations came in part of the #ShareTheGoodLifewithLG campaign during the holidays, where as a way of giving back to the community, LG dedicated a portion of each sale of each product to go towards furnishing the home of the Shelter of Hope.

The overwhelming feeling of Director Heo during Kids performances

God Bless you more LG for being generous and thank you for being the BIGGEST BLESSING of these Childrens life.

I feel so blessed and happy all at the same time watching these kids and can’t stop thinking how parents cope up with these feelings. How they accept the fact and reality that their children aren’t sure with their own lives.

Thanks Miss Millet for inviting me. Nice to meet you.

And yours truly on her #OOTD for LG EVENT!

###

About LG Electronics

Life’s about more than having the latest technology, rather, it’s about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. LG Electronics Philippines delivers consumer electronics through top-of-the-line home entertainment, home appliances, and air solution products, that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring “Innovation for a Better Life” nationwide – from Luzon, to Visayas, and Mindanao.

For more details, log on to lg.com/Ph, like @LGPhilippines on Facebook and follow @LGPhilippines on Instagram.

❤️❤️❤️ Mama Farrah

Education, Event, Food, Healthy Living, Lifestyle, Parenting

Salceda proposes Universal Free Schools Meals Act to boost academic performance, guarantees nutritious meals to children in kindergarten and grade school

As part of his Comprehensive Education Reform Agenda, and in an effort to eliminate child hunger and malnutrition, House Ways and Means Committee Chair Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda (Albay, 2nd District) has filed a bill guaranteeing access to nutritious school meals for all kindergarten and grade school students.

“The most critical part of cognitive development is childhood, and when children are hungry, we cannot expect them to develop their full intellectual potential,” Salceda said. “That’s why we must consider child nutrition as part of our investment in education. Pointless kasing papasukin sa eskwela, damihan ang subject, tapos yung bata, gutom pala.”

Under Salceda’s bill, the Department of Education will implement a school-based feeding program for a minimum of one hundred twenty feeding days per school year to be done five days a week with one feeding activity per school day.

“Under my bill, children will at least be able to receive one nutritious meal while in school. The bill will also provide vitamin and mineral supplements, and milk products,” Salceda added.

The bill also encourages food production in schools, and the sourcing of food stuff for feeding programs from local farmers.

“In a sense, my bill also ensures a sure market for farmer produce. Nakakapanghinayang kapag nakikita mong nag-oovershoot ang production ng ilang gulay, kung pwede naming gamitin sa feeding program.” Salceda said.

Salceda’s proposal also encourages the DepEd to tap persons trained by the Technical Education and Skills Development Academy (TESDA) on food preparation, handling, and storage.

“In that way, one of its positive consequences is job creation and training on child nutrition.” Salceda said.

“The 2018 Expanded National Nutrition Survey of the United Nations Children’s Fund shows alarming undernutrition rates among Filipino children. Stunting is declining slowly, but the decline is marginal, from 34 percent in 2003 to 30 percent in 2018. This affects some 3.5 million children under 5 years of age,” Salceda’s explanatory note for the bill says.

“While just over 5 per cent of children were wasted, the numerical equivalent of this rate is around 650,000 children. Among them, some 300,000 are with the severest form of malnutrition and require treatment. The Philippines also has the highest rate of low birthweight – 1 in 5 children – in ASEAN.”

“These results correlate with the country’s performance in the 2018 Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa), which covered 79 countries, where Filipino students fared worst in reading comprehension and second lowest in both mathematical and scientific literacy. Underdevelopment of the brain and the body tend to result in poor performance in reading, math, science and all other education metrics.”

“As I said, we will move towards the Finnish model of education, where workloads are light, teachers teach well, students are job-ready, and school meals are guaranteed absolutely free,” Salceda said.

Earlier, Salceda has filed the Teacher Empowerment Act to lighten teachers’ administrative load and improve the quality of teaching, the K to 12 Reform Act to make students more job-ready, and the Meister Schools Act to close the country’s highly-technical skills gap. 

❤️Mama Farrah

Charity, Event, Lifestyle, Parenting

The Sweetest 30 ft. Christmas Candy Cake is unveiled in Greenhills

Ortigas & Company makes the holidays extra-sweet with the launch of the first and only Christmas Candy Cake at the ultimate shopping destination, Greenhills, which opens to the public on November 8.

All set to delight the young and the young-at-heart from November 8, 2018 to January 6, 2019, the biggest Christmas Candy Cake, located at the VMall Lobby, will be filled to the brim with all the candy one can possibly dream of. Imagine a Christmas candy cake full of every candy you can ever think of—gum drops, butterballs, eclairs, hard candy, chocolate bars, fudge, in an assortment of sizes, shapes, and colors—filling the four-layer 30-feet high cake.

To make things more exciting for its launch, guests can enjoy a Willy Wonka performance, with visions of a chocolate factory coming alive right before their eyes. As an added Christmas bonus, golden tickets will also be scattered around the mall for mall-goers to find. Lucky winners will be able to claim special prizes if they find these tickets from November 6 until Christmas Day.

True to the spirit of generosity that gives meaning to the season, Greenhills will have special guests under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and will take part in the joy of the season.

As the first and largest Candy Cake in the Philippines, this Christmas installation will surely enhance the experience of all those shopping at the only mall with the widest selection of retail offerings with various tiangge stalls with their festive assortment of goods for the value-conscious, as well as retail stores with a selection of gifts for everyone.

Aside from the Christmas Candy Cake, Greenhills will also hold a Christmas Sweet Bazaar at VMall Lobby from Nov. 9, 2018 to January 6, 2018. There will also be Paskuhan Pinoy 2018 at the VMall Garden from November to January 2019. Starting November through January 2019, a Night Market will be at the G-strip parking for food enthusiasts from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. as well as Regional Delicacies at the ground floor of the Center Mall from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Kids will also be able Meet & Greet Santa on all Saturdays of December at the VMall Lobby from 2 to 5 p.m. Fireworks will also light the Ortigas skyline every Saturday at 7 p.m. for the entire family to enjoy. And lastly, Simbang Gabi will take place at the Chapel of the Holy Family from December 15 to 23, 6pm daily.

Families and friends out to shop and explore Greenhills can also find more dining outlets to choose from such as newly opened restaurants Bijin Nabe, Kimpura, Coco Fresh, Moshi Koshi, and Serenitea. In the following months, Scout’s Honor, Breakfast at Antonio’s, Ippudo, Yabu, Bad Bird, any many more will also be opening their doors for diners to enjoy.

Greenhills has all sorts of cuisine to meet various tastes, and will definitely satisfy the tummies of all those who love good food. Enjoy all these amidst the sparkling Christmas lights and the beautiful installations that will remind you that the holidays have come.

Being the crown jewel of San Juan, Greenhills has newly opened health & wellness facilities namely Bruno’s Barbers, Urban Hair Lounge, Beeswax, Nazal MD, and Skin Station. The Medical City, Aivee Institute, Brow Studio, Center for Advanced Dentistry, and Oroderm will also be opening in the coming months.

“Greenhills is still Ortigas & Company’s ultimate shopping destination and top of mind go to place, especially during the holidays. We want shoppers to have an even more delightful shopping experience with our Christmas Candy Cake and the Christmas Sweet Bazaar, which will bring in more exciting merchants,” says President and CEO of Ortigas & Company Jaime E. Ysmael.

Indeed, Christmas is more delightful and so much sweeter in Greenhills.

For more information and updates, please visit and follow Greenhills on Facebook and Instagram.

About Ortigas & Company

Ortigas & Company is one of the pioneers in real estate development in the Philippines. Now on its 87th year, the company continues to build great places for life through its iconic estates for living, shopping, business, and entertainment. It is the developer behind some of Metro Manila’s best-known master planned and mixed-use developments: Greenhills, Ortigas East, Capitol Commons, and Circulo Verde. For more information, visit http://www.ortigas.com.ph or call 633-1580.

For the love and goodness of life

♥️Mama Farrah

Event, Food, Lifestyle, New Product, Product Launch

Rebisco celebrates Filipino artistry and food with the Special Edition Designer Can series

MANILA, Philippines – November 2018 – One of the most iconic fixtures in a Filipino home is the Rebisco Assorted Biscuits Tin Can — that multi-colored can of Snacks that generations have always loved. Through the years, Rebisco products have become a part of Filipino traditions — a pasalubong lovingly carried to waiting family members in many homecomings; a favorite merianda fare; a much-loved snack passed around during family gatherings, big and small. A silent witness to the evolution of Filipino lifestyles, Rebisco Assorted Biscuits continues to be a Pinoy favorite, standing the test of time.

A fresh take on a Filipino classic

As it marks its 55th Anniversary, Rebisco takes its humble tin can to the next level by partnering with renowned Filipino contemporary artists to create the Rebisco Special Edition Designer Cans. These works of art aim to showcase the rich history and evolution of the brand, while using the can itself as a vehicle of expression.

The growth of Rebisco parallels that of the Filipino culture. Over the past 55 years, Rebisco has grown into a formidable brand, thanks to the Filipino’s undying love and support, allowing it to grow into what it is today. As a fledgling company, Rebisco started with very simple offerings of biscuits and crackers packed into a can with images of the biscuits. Overtime, the packaging evolved, soon showcasing family-themed art works as well.

As Rebisco celebrates its 55th year anniversary, the brand collaborated with 4 local artists to create artworks specifical for the launch of the new Special Edition Designer Cans. L-R: Noric Ng, Rebisco Vice-President of Operations; Lady Luzano-Cruz, Category Manager; Roel Obemio, Artist; Migs Villanueva, Artist; Heart Evangelista, Host and Rebisco Ambassador; Lulu dela Peña, Marketing Communications Head; Chico Garcia, Host; Aris Bagtas, Artist; Joseph Bañez, Artist; Katherine Simundo, Rebisco Vice-President of Marketing

By realizing that their snacks are deeply ingrained into the Filipino way of life, Rebisco celebrates its anniversary by launching their newest special edition designer tin can, which served as a canvas on which the Filipino story is printed. These miniature versions are designed to show how Rebisco is intertwined with the Filipino story, as captured in food practices and traditions illustrated by four highly acclaimed artists. In doing so, the well-loved tin can evolves into a canvass that fulfills the brand’s vision to acclaimed recognize the work and talent of Filipino artists.

Visualizing the rich local flavor

Beautifully using the tin can as the canvas through which they can capture local color are four of the country’s talented contemporary artists – Migs Villanueva, Aris Bagtas, Roel Obemio, and Joseph Banez. By collaborating with Rebisco, they aim to shine the light on Filipino artistry and culture in a tradition that Rebisco has created.

The red can showcases the paintings made by Roel Obemio

The blue can showcases the paintings made by Migs Villanueva

The green can showcases the paintings made by Aris Bagtas.

The yellow can showcases the paintings made by Joseph “Otep” Bañez

Migs Villanueva, a Palanca-awardee visual artist, uses bold colors and wanderlust compositions to invite Filipinos to see their own childhood experiences in her works. Aris Bagtas shows the Filipinos’ identity through his folk, religious and abstract works, inspiring people to create a country where family values, traits and traditions are not forgotten. Roel Obemio, a member of the famed Saturday Group, uses storybook characters and Filipino family-oriented imagery that convey whimsy and fantasy. Joseph “Otep” Bañez, who made his own brand of Filipino Pop-Social Realism that took the market by storm, creates detailed renditions combined with playful colors and hilarious settings.

Alongside these artists, celebrity and visual artist Heart Evangelista-Escudero plus radio DJ Chico Garcia celebrated the launch as official event hosts for this prestigious event.

My Idol, Miss Heart Evangelista-Escudero, Host/Rebisco Ambassadress

This projects’s new masterpieces are featured on the tin can’s outher packaging. There are four sets of special edition designer cans, and inside are assorted premium biscuits, crackers, cookies and wafers — all-time favorites that people love to snack on and share. Retailing for Php175.00 SRP, these are now available at leading supermarkets nationwide, namely Robinsons, Puregold, Waltermart, Rustans, and Shopwise. Starting November 15, 2018, you can also buy online via http://www.honestbee.ph.

“Every Pinoy family has a story to tell and through the years, we make these stories come to life through our products. Rebisco’s Special Edition Designer Cans support local not only through taste, but through art. We at Rebisco believe that life is a constant journey of growing and refining who we are. Thus, we find a new twist to an old product to rekindle interest for it while continuing our tradition to let the tin can serve as an art canvas that tells the stories and values of Filipino families,” said Ms. Lulu dela Peña, the Marketing Communications Head of Rebisco.

Indeed, Rebisco’s Special Edition Designer Can will once again be part of the Filipino heritage. What are you waiting for? Express your support for local by gifting your family and friends with Rebisco’s special edition designer cans, and share with them a taste of our rich Filipino culture.

They also prepare cute flatlays, perfect for IG photos.

Ryan Bang, Rebisco Ambassador

Thanks for dropping by!

Giving you the realness and goodness of life.

♥️Mama Farrah

Baby, Event, Food, Lifestyle, Parenting

Christmas Tunnel returns to delight more audiences in its second run

The first spectacle of its kind in the country promises an even more exciting show fresh from its intemational win.

Ortigas & Company’s award-winning Christmas spectacle–the first of its kind in the Philippines-retums this year as the Christmas Street light Musical Tunnel opens to the public on November 6.

Set to light up the premier developer’s Ortigas East estate, the Christmas Tunnel will warm hearts and delight the senses with a captivating light display playing alongside some of the yuletide season‘s well-loved hits.

Ortigas & Company is gearing up for another exhilarating show as the Christmas Tunnel marks its second run with new arrangements and a flashier show for more artistic and musical flair. With this show, families and friends who will troop to Ortigas East are sure to feel the joy of the Christmas season.

The Christmas Street Light Musical Tunnel. which bagged two Stevie Awards in the recent lntemational Business Awards for Real Estate Marketing Campaign of the Year and Re-Brandinngrand Renovation of the Year, promises a one-of-a-kind experience with its structural features. Made with 2,368 pixels of light, each pixel is composed of three bulbs in red, blue, and green, flickering and dancing festively according to the music‘s beat. When stretched out, the Christmas Tunnel is equivalent to 1.4 kilometers, or the length of 28 Olympic swimming pools.

“Ortigas & Company continues to make its malls the go-to destination for family and friends, and what better way to show this than through the return of the award-winning Christmas Street Light Musical Tunnel at Ortigas East. This much-awaited tradition, which began last year, was developed to provide Filipinos and even tourists more reasons to celebrate at Tiendesitas and make it a must-see holiday destination,” says Ortigas Malls Vice President Renee C. Bacani.

Lighting of the tunnel is initiated by VIPs of Ortigas and Company and Hon. Bobby and Maribel Eusebio

As an added offering, famed shadow play group El Gamma Penumbra and Ben&Ben performed during the launch. There is also a whole slew of holiday activities in the estate’s retail destination, Tiendesitas, which guests can enjoy.

There will be a StrEAT Food Market from November 7 to January 6 for foodies in the metro. while kids get the chance to take photos with Santa in the Meet & Greet sessions happening on all Saturdays of December at the Fashion and Furniture Village from 2 to 5 PM. Fireworks will light the Ortigas skyline also every Saturday at 7 PM. Churchgoers can also flock to the Simbang Gabi which will take place at the Food Village from December 15 to 23 at 6 PM.

Families and friends out to explore Tiendesitas will also find new dining choices, such as the larheat Rico’s Lechon branch in Metro Manila. Sports enthusiasts will also soon be in shopping heaven as Decathlon, the largest European sport brand, opens in Tiendesitas.

Feast at Rico’s Lechon. Yummy!

These new shops are on top of the exiciting redevelopment happening in Ortigas East, which will give rise to Metro Manila’s eco-estate filled with some of the choicest retail, reaidential, and lifestylwle offering.

Foe more information and updatea, please visit and follow Tiendesitas on Facebook and Instagram

Me and Janel really enjoyed the night, Janel is quietly and focused watching El Gamma Prenumbra and amazed when the Tunnel is lit with choreographic sounds. Yay!

Giving you the goodness in life!

♥️ Mama Farrah

Diet, Event, Exercise, Healthy Living, Lifestyle, Sports, Woman Empowerment

Fitness Revolution Health and Wellness Expo

Listen up, Metro Manila! There’s an upcoming event that is “fit for you”.

Invite your friends and head on to the ABS-CBN Vertis Tent at Ayala Malls Vertis North, Quezon City on November 16, 17 and 18 to have a weekend of fun and excitement at Fitness Revolution Health & Wellness Expo.

Fitness Revolution is a gathering of the entire fitness community led by our country’s most prominent gyms such as Fitness First, Slimmers World, Anytime Fitness, etc. These gyms will be conducting group classes to the public for free during the 3-day expo. On top of that, they will also be handing out vouchers and amazing deals on club memberships.

“The fitness industry is truly tight and competitive. With that said, my team and I created Fitness Revolution to foster camaraderie and support with the end goal of promoting the concept of “health and fitness as an investment” rather than expense,” said Nesh Zamora, creator of Fitness Revolution.

It will be an interactive weekend filled with free activities to highlight and promote various classes offered by our participating gyms. There are lots of activities to choose from such as zumba, yoga, HIIT, parkour fitness, belly dance, kickboxing, pound rockout workout, body combat, women’s self defense, circuit training, cage fitness and many more.

Fitness Revolution will also be the host of major activities such as Archery Attack, indoor obstacle course, and workshops on striking protocol, poi, pole and aerial arts.

This expo will also have our leading fitness brands such as McDavid, Reebok, Puma, Roxy, Quiksilver, among others, to sell products and merchandise with huge discounts. In addition, every ticket entitles you to 15% discount on Nike, Adidas and Asics at Intersport Vertis North.

“Entrance fee is P200 only. You will get a lot out of your money at Fitness Revolution granting that a per session walk-in rate on gyms would usually cost around P500 to P700. Aside from achieving your health goals in one weekend, you also get to shop for loved ones there if you’re looking to avoid the holiday rush,” added Zamora.

Follow Fitness Revolution on Facebook and Instagram to watch out for promotions, freebies and contests. For exhibition and sponsorship, please contact 0917-890-0757.

FITNESS REVOLUTION

Health & Wellness Expo

November 16, 17 & 18, 2018

ABS-CBN Vertis Tent

Ayala Malls Vertis North, Quezon City

(Near MRT North Ave. Station)

Beauty, Event, Lifestyle, Operation

MERZ PHILIPPINES UNCOVERS TRUTH BEHIND BEAUTY FILLERS

When it comes to beauty, there’s so many options on what to put and what to wear. And it’s another level if you “Does the job” with your favorite Doctor. Cringing right? If I were to do it, I’m actually thinking about it, if it is safe? Do I look like the same with other celebs and person who does it too? Cloned! So, Merz Aesthetics cleared all my questions.

Merz, a global leader in providing cutting-edge technology in the Aesthetics Industry, exposes the truth behind a beauty treatment that is gaining popularity globally – beauty fillers.

With 110 years in the market, Merz continues to focus on its mission to allow patients to LIVE BETTER, FEEL BETTER and LOOK BETTER.

• Merz also brought the popular aesthetic treatment, Ultherapy, to the Philippines. It is a US FDA-cleared noninvasive procedure that is proven to lift the Brow, Cheeks, Chin and Decollate.

Merz Beauty Agenda: A Forum on Fillers expounds on the different types of fillers available in the market

Patients reveal positive impact of fillers after treatment

Manila, Philippines Works of art are continuously restored over time – isn’t a person a work of art, too? This is a famous saying by a revered aesthetic surgeon from Germany. Indeed, a person is a work of art and yet, opting to undergo aesthetic treatments as a way of enhancing beauty is still a heated topic today.

Merz, one the leaders in the field of aesthetics medicine, led a beauty agenda at the Grand Hyatt Manila recently, that sought to shed light on the bigger picture – that opting for beauty fillers should not be frowned upon. The forum, dubbed as ‘Merz Aesthetics Beauty Agenda: A Forum on Fillers,’ helped debunk the different misconceptions that can possibly hinder women to be fully empowered when it comes to getting beauty treatments.

Driven by the mission to help people live better, feel better and look better, Merz, together with Dr.  Wilson Ho, Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, Dr. Gio Dimayuga, and Dr. Gerald Sy, provided an in-depth look on beauty fillers tackling the most common myths that exist today.

1. YOU WON’T LOOK NATURAL

Dr. Gio Dimayuga, an active consultant at the Makati Medical Center and several clinics in Manila asserts, “There is what you call the ‘overfilled’ syndrome where lip and cheek injections can result in a trout pout or pillow face.”

He mentioned that there are aesthetic companies that innovate to achieve as much natural-looking results as possible. With Merz’s 65 years of dedication to beauty since launching the first anti-wrinkle cream in 1953, they have committed to deliver natural-looking outcomes while putting their patients as the focus of every product. This is particularly evident with the patented technology behind their HA Filler, which is designed to integrate seamlessly into the skin tissue. And CaHa Filler which is considered as more than just a filler with its power lifting and bio-stimulation properties that allows patients to naturally produce collagen and tighten their skin.

2. ANYONE CAN DO DERMAL FILLER TREATMENTS

This is a common misconception faced today. The doctors in the forum stressed that it is crucial to note that only doctors can administer dermal fillers as it is a medical procedure.

Dr. Gerald Sy, the Vice President of Internal Affairs of the Philippine Association of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeons, Inc. highlights, “It is highly essential that prospective patients only look for experienced doctors who boast of several years in the aesthetics industry for their treatments. This is how we can avoid the ‘horror stories’ that result from procedures such as the overfilled syndrome.”

3. DOCTORS CAN USE ANY TYPE OF FILLERS ON YOUR FACE

“Only certain fillers for certain parts of the face have been approved by the FDA – so any type of filler in the market cannot be just used on your face,” states Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, resident expert at St. Luke’s Medical Centre Bonifacio Global City and various clinics in Metro Manila.

For safety reasons, the FDA recognition for fillers is an essential factor when deciding to opt for dermal fillers.

4. JUST ANY KIND OF FILLERS ARE GOOD FOR YOU

There are many fillers that exist in the market – the HA, CaHa and you also have the permanent or non-permanent fillers. HA filler is considered as the most commonly used fillers by medical practitioners but only doctors can recommend the best filler suited for each patient as it is a case-to-case basis.

The medical practitioners shared that though there are dermal filler ‘horror stories’ people account for at times, many of these are not based on facts and are just misleading information. They stressed that safety is of utmost priority, together with years of proven research and technological development which is why it’s important to trust established aesthetics brands when it comes to choosing dermal fillers. Aside from having experts to discuss about this, there were also patients that shared their journey in immersing themselves in aesthetics treatments.

The Modern-Day Filipina Woman

Globally, studies have shown that there is an increasing traction on the societal acceptance of beauty fillers and that it can be regarded as ‘mainstream’ to the everyday woman.

In the Philippines, though there is a growing consumer demand, many still find it a challenge to admit that they have undergone aesthetic treatments. Insecurity is often equated with undergoing aesthetic treatments and the forum served as a platform for filler patients to share their experience and how Merz contributed in battling these issues.

“I have always seen myself as someone beautiful, but there are those days. I never wanted to change how I look but rather, I only wanted to accentuate the beauty that I already have. With Merz and the minimally invasive treatments they offer, I felt more empowered to make the decision of having fillers injected on me,” shared Agoo Bengzon, beauty editor.

Guests were also treated to aromatic, and beauty and wellness stations, with on-the-spot assessments led by Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas and Dr. Gio Dimayuga. The event culminated with a toast, in celebration of the forum’s success and Merz’s 110th year anniversary.

A treat! Mixture of Jasmine and Peppermint EO diluted in Mineral Oil

Our EO Candle loot ♥️ Thanks![[[[[[[[[[
And since it’s their 110th Anniversary they also treat and serve us decent meal

ABOUT MERZ

Since creating one of the first anti-wrinkle moisturizing creams in 1953, Merz has been a driver of innovation in the field of aesthetic medicine. They are a global, family-owned aesthetics and neurotoxin company backed by 110 years of trust and commitment.

Headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, Merz is present globally with approximately 3,000 employees worldwide.

At Merz Aesthetics, they are truly passionate about aesthetics. To them, aesthetics is more than just better looks. It is about feeling better and eventually living a better life. Merz recognize no two patients are alike. Each patient is living their individual life and has their own kind of beautiful.

Building on more than a century of healthcare experience, Merz believe in the power of innovation founded on trusted, long-term relationships. They are committed to provide patients the best treatment experience possible while creating sustainable value for their customers.

Merz is extremely proud to offer a portfolio of trusted aesthetic products, renowned by practitioners and patients around the world. However, they are much more than their products: The supporting solutions they provide, the training and education measures and a holistic approach to aesthetic medicine make Merz Aesthetics stand out.

For more information: www.merzaesthetics.com

Media Contacts:

Angeline Angeles

Product Manager

Merz Philippines Healthcare Inc.

DL: +6326692734 | Mobile: +639175895788| Fax: +6326515902

Email: Angeline.Angeles@merz.com

Pao Goze

Account Director

FleishmanHillard

O: +632-813-7925 | Mobile: +63917-328-7138 | Fax: +632-813-0634

Email: Pao.goze@fleishman.com

Photo with Blogger Event friends ♥️

And here’s #MamaFarrah giving you goodness in life.♥️

Thanks for dropping by!

XoXo,

♥️Mama Farrah

Baby, Breastfeeding, Education, Event, Healthy Living, Lifestyle, Woman Empowerment

A Mommy Forum for a Mother-Baby Friendly Philippines

Mommies unite for an afternoon to support and promote breastfeeding

Breastfeeding may be considered a challenging phase of motherhood but the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and babies truly make the journey worthwhile. While more and more mothers recognize that breastmilk will always be superior compared to formula milk, there is still a need to spread awareness on its benefits and to encourage people to support breastfeeding.

in response to the global campaign of protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding, World Vision Development Foundation, in partnership with the Department of Health, launched Mother-Baby Friendly Philippines. This two-year project aims to:

1. Support and strengthen the implementation of Executive Order 51 (The Philippine Milk Code of 1986), Republic Act 7600 (The Rooming-ln and Breastfeeding Act of 1992), and Republic Act 10028 (The Expanded Breastfeeding Promotion Act of 2009)

2. Increase awareness and educate health professionals and the public regarding these laws

3. Encourage people to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding by involving them in monitoring the implementation of breastfeeding laws in the country

Carleneth F. San Valentin, Health and Nutrition Technical Programme Manager of World Vision Development Foundation, beIieves that encouraging mothers to nurture their child is a way to empower a mother’s ability to breastfeed and care for their child. ”We are here to educate mothers so that they are empowered to make the right choice in nurturing and caring for their child. We want them to realize that if these laws are not implemented, we are impinging on their rights and of their child‘s,” she shared.

According to Dr. Anthony P. Calibo of the Department of Health, this responsibility to uphold the breastfeeding rights of mothers is not just the responsibility of concerned organizations and government sectors; it is a responsibility of the general public. ”If a mother is investing herself for the betterment of the future of her child, then she is also investing in the betterment of the future of this country,” he emphasized.

Anthony P. Calibo, BSPH, MD, DPPS

To stay true to their mission and vision for this project, the team conducted Mommy Forum: Mother~Baby Friendly Philippines last October 2, 2018 at Little Owl in New Manila. #MBFPH was graced by mom celebrities like Camille Prats Yambao, Jennica Garcia Uytingco and Erika Padilla.

Camille Prats-Yambao

Jennica Garcia-Uytingco

Erika Padilla, World Vision Breastfeeding Ambassador

Erika Padilla, World Vision Breastfeeding Ambassador, shared her breastfeeding journey. “It is a huge sacrifice. it is difficult, painful, and a lot of work. But definitely worth every single drop because I see my son getting stronger and healthier every day,” she recalled. Her story encouraged more moms to share and ask for more tips from Erika as well.

Rommel Fuerte, Executive Director of World Vision Development Foundation, reminds long-time moms and new moms the reason behind this gathering: the breastfeeding normalization is still a work in progress and it’s a must to constantly promote and protect breastfeeding to empower moms and to ensure a healthy start for their children.

Question and Answer Portion with the guest

To know how you can support Mother-Baby Friendly Phllipplnes, log on to http://mbfps.doh.gov.ph/ or dowload MBF PH via Google Play or Apple Store.

And here’s my #MamaFarrah goodness #OOTD and #MOTD.

♥️Mama Farrah

Event, Food, Lifestyle, Product Launch

Mega Sardines announces exciting new variants and Piolo Pascual’s 2nd year as ambassador

Passionate and fun-loving Filipinos have a new cause for celebration-heartthrob Piolo Pascual has extended his term as Mega Sardines’ brand ambassador, coinciding with the reintroduction of an exciting array of Mega Sardines variants.

it was a veritable fiesta as Piolo signed his new contract with Mega Sardines, a Filipino staple that is loved by people across the country. Piolo, after all, reflects the heart and passion behind Mega Sardines, as well as its promise of #MegaGandaAngBuhay, which is word play of the phrase “may igaganda ang buhay.”

The relaunch of Mega Sardines’ variants evokes the joy that comes with a true Filipino fiesta. The variants are a festive assortment of exciting flavors and create a feast of the senses, with new offerings such as Mega Sardines in Spanish-Styte, Mega Sardines in Natural Oil, Mega Extra Hot Sardines, Mega Fried Sardines Tausi, and Mega Fried Sardines Hot and Spicy. Through the years, these well-loved flavors have become an important part of family meals and have come to define the Filipino way of life.

Piolo’s association with the Mega Sardines brand is deep-rooted. Not too long ago, Piolo starred in Mega Sardines’ muiti-awarded TV and radio ad, which showcased the brand‘s unique and meticulous 12 hour catching-to-canning process. The process captures the company’s dedication to bring only the best to Filipinos, para sa ikagaganda ng buhay. in the ad, Piolo takes Mega’s fishing boat as a witness to the hard work of the men and women who bring Mega into the tables of thousands of Filipinos around the country. it also shows Mega Sardines’ state-of-the-art equipment, which ensures the freshness, cleanliness, and quality of its products.

“Mega Sardines is part of Filipino life so much so that it‘s a stapte ‘in Filipino homes, and so is Piolo Pascuai. His presence on our screens-whether big or smail-has been impactful over the years and truly shows Filipino excellency, and that’s why he’s perfect as Mega Sardines’ brand ambassador,” said Mr. Marvin Tiu Lim, VP of Sales and Marketing of Mega Global.

Mega Sardines will also be launching a series of short films called #MegaGandaAngBuhay which features inspiring short films that is sure to touch the hearts of Filipinos everywhere. The short films will showcase contemporary Filipino stories about their struggles, passions, and unwavering resilience;

With the renewed collaboration between Piolo and Mega Sardines, Filipinos can look forward to enjoying the brand’s promise that #MegaGandaAngBuhay.

All variants of Mega Sardines are availabie in supermarkets nationwide. The new Mega Fried Sardines, though. are exclusively available in SM Supermarkets. SM Hypermarkets. and SaveMore stores nationwide. For more information. please visit the website http://www.megaglobal.com.ph and Facebook page http://facebook.com /officialmegasardines/.

Here’s what you can prepare using new variants of Mega Sardines, my personal favorite is the one with Tausi. It’s so yummy and a little bit sweet, perfect with your hot rice.

Tausi variant with Rice! Yummy!

Spicy variant is going well with Pandesal

Spanish style goes well with Pasta 👌😋

Yung ang saya-saya ko sa pagkain ko. Sarap ng new variants!

The yummiest part of them all. Hahaha! Ang bango!!

Serving you #MamaFarrah goodness with Mega Sardinesz haha!

Thanks so much Mega Sardines for having me! ♥️

XoXo,

♥️Mama Farrah