A Stylish, Energy-efficient and Income-earning Modular Homes: Pre-Fab is Fab!

All of us dream of a stylish home, either for ourselves living alone or for our family. Something decent that we can always come home to at the end of the day. Now there's a good choice with pre-fab homes.

What comes to mind when you hear the word “pre-fab home”?

Bet you thought of soldiers’ barracks, temporary shelters or low-cost houses that the government put up for mass housing in the 60s and 70s.

But prefabricated homes have come a long way. Whether its purpose is to be a family home, a vacation getaway, or a home that one can use for business, one can now find a trendy modular home to cherish and be proud of because it looks good and performs superbly as a dwelling unit too.

Pre-fab homes today are practically custom-built, beautifully designed, sturdy, long-lasting, energy-efficient, and ready to meet the challenges posed by the elements. Although built in quick time, no compromise has been made on its quality or integrity. New homes that use this fast and flexible building technique have also been hailed for using sustainable, recycled, low-energy materials and fixtures that result in functional, space-efficient, eco-friendly design.

Aluform PreFab Construction and Consultancy, makers of office buildings and technoparks, has brought stylish modular housing to the Philippines to meet the needs of young families, investment-seekers and upwardly mobile professionals on the lookout for homes that are ready for occupancy within a shorter waiting time. The modular dwellings are convenient to construct, flexible in terms of space usage and cost much less than a conventionally built home.

Classy looking and stylish, Aluform Pre-Fabricated Homes come in two designs: Country and Zen. Both are airy, with their respective charm and appeal, are spacious and energy efficient, and make good use of available light and ventilation to lower energy bills by as much as 20%. The energy savings of up to 20% is due to good insulating roof and wall materials, plus sufficient air ventilation that keeps the stylish home in a comfortable 28 degrees Celsius zone at high noon!

The façade is made of wood-like planks of finished materials, while the actual panels are reinforced with pre-cast concrete filled with insulation materials for total thermal, moisture and acoustic protection. These give the homes their energy-saving properties.

Designed for both luxury and function, strategically placed windows and doors allow natural light to enter the home. The windows use a certified double-glazed system that insulates the house from external noise and other kinds of pollution. Louver features below the roof keep the ceiling well ventilated at all times.

The houses have a floor area of 135 square meters and have a multi-purpose Lanai, which is one of the best features of Aluform Pre-Fabricated Homes. The generous space opens up the home investment to many possibilities. The lanai area can be used to make a bigger dining room, if desired, an entertainment area, a bigger garage. Or even to open up a business space like a home office, a mini grocery, barber shop, parlor, snack shop, kitchenette, or other enterprise that can make the home earn additional income for its owners.

Built to withstand the elements, Aluform Pre-Fabricated Homes are easier to put up than conventional on-site constructions. One can have a home built in 60 days or less that is immediately livable because furnishings are already in place within that period. Highly versatile, they are also good for export and are transferrable to other locations in the future, if desired.

“Aluform Pre-Fab Homes are highly desirable during these times when more and more families and individuals lead an active lifestyle and are discovering their entrepreneurial spirit. They can be lived in as simple residences, but can also make good home offices or the site of income generating ventures. Enterprising owners can make them places where they can “live and earn”. There are infinite possibilities,” says Ritchie Catalan, Marketing Officer of Aluform Industries, Inc.

Aluform Industries, Inc. supplies the materials for the homes but would-be owners can engage their own contractors if preferred. They can also avail of Aluform’s services for the house construction.

For more information and dealership inquiries, call (0917) 828-8189 and (0917) 891-1088. Or email modular.creation@gmail.com.

Manulife’s Bundle of Joy: A lasting gift for our young family’s future

by Cheryl De Guia-Lim, Businesswoman

If there’s one thing I learned as a newbie parent, one should give what’s best for the child, especially for a newborn baby. Parents are expected to know how to feed, bathe, clothe, play with, and generally  care  for  their  baby  –  but  babies  don't come with instructions. And even if this isn't your first,  you may still be trying to figure out how to deal with it physically, emotionally and financially. 

The vast  majority of newborns enter  the world healthy but they are more vulnerable to germs than older babies because they simply haven't had time to build up defenses. Sometimes infants develop conditions  that  require  medical  tests  and treatment. All  signs and  symptoms  are  of  even  greater concern if the baby is less than 3 months old. 

We experienced this  first  hand as my husband Oliver  and I found ourselves rushing to the emergency room at 2 a.m. due to  the  high fever of our newborn son. After a series of laboratory tests to rule out bigger complications, our little boy was diagnosed with Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). Seven days and eighty thousand pesos later, we were discharged with our baby healthier and stronger. 

Looking  back,  we  would  not  have  done  things differently, except for  one realization magnified—we would stop at  nothing for our child. It  is a lesson learned through one hospital scare. We can only do so much to take care of our little one, and even if we wrap him in our arms until he is okay to thrive on his own, we as parents cannot live forever. Accidents happen and  diseases  will not  always  be  at  bay.  The  unpredictability  of  parenthood comes  with  inevitable emergencies of life. If something happens to Oliver and I even before he turns one, what happens to our newborn child? What can we leave behind? 

We can either burden ourselves with anxiety on things we cannot control or secure the best future for our son—without delay. This means now -- no need to wait until his first birthday. The absolute security of our newborn is not even a choice, it is a necessity. After all, what is more urgent than our child’s future? 

The cost  of pregnancy, baby delivery,  supplies and immunizations all add up. So for  parents  like us, Manulife’s Bundle of Joy program is a welcome breath of fresh air. With no premium required, moms and dads with newborns less than a year old would only need to register online for a free one-year insurance coverage worth Php100,000.00. You can also seek expert advice and useful guides for first-time parents and  financial  awareness  for  those  who  are starting  to  build  a  family.  The  site  also  offers  relevant information for us parents on freebies, promos and other fun activities. 

At this time, getting insurance may be at the bottom of your checklist, as it was previously in ours. But as we relish the joys of parenthood, let us learn to choose lifelong benefits, the ones that would benefit the family and ultimately our newborns. The cute strollers, cribs, baby bouncers and toys will be outgrown in a short amount of time but a good insurance coverage will last a long time. 

Consider Manulife’s Bundle of Joy program as another version of a tight hug for your baby--thoughtful,comforting and valuable. Register online at www.manulifebundleofjoy.com.ph and shower your newborn with unlimited hugs while they are young.

Filipino Bloggers Network Christmas Party 2014

The Filipino Bloggers Network (FBN), one of the most active bloggers group in the country, successfully held its annual Christmas party at the Aluform facilities at Jade Garden, San Juan City last December 13.

The event which was filled with fun games, great food and more importantly, sharing of stories of the fellow online writers. FBN currently has almost 1400 blogger members and continue to expand as it provides a venue for Pinoy bloggers to interact with other members from different part of the Philippines. Moderating the discussions and posting opportunities from different brands for the group are co-admins Divine RC and Richard Mamuyac.

This year’s celebration was supported by the following generous sponsors:

Aluform PreFab Construction and Consultancy - Makers of office buildings and technoparks. The company also supplies the materials for the homes but would-be owners can engage their own contractors if preferred. They can also avail of Aluform’s services for the house construction. For more information and dealership inquiries, call (0917) 828-8189 and (0917) 891-1088. Or email modular.creation@gmail.com

AMPR Publicity and Communications, Inc. (AMPR) - One of the country’s leading public relations agencies. AMPR is a full service public relations and marketing services company that caters to various industries and companies of diverse sizes. AMPR is also engaged in related services such as event planning and management, news and events monitoring from media and non-media sources, conceptualization and development of creative materials and brand marketing review for clients in need of end-to-end development of communication plans. For more about AMPR Publicity and Communications, Inc.’s expertise and services, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AMPRInc or contact them through (02) 706-1971 and ampr.consultancy@gmail.com.

Get Med app – Published by UNA IT Mobile Solutions Philippines Inc. GetMed is your first stop for leading a healthy lifestyle. Get the latest health tips, news stories, diets, health horoscopes and more via this FREE app. Stories and articles come from reputable sources around the world to ensure you are getting the best advice in leading a healthier life. GetMed also allows you to enhance your experience when you need to search for a Doctor, Visit your Doctor or look for your local hospital. With more doctors registering daily, you will be able to book your appointment with registered doctors with the simply click of a button. The app is available in Google Play and App Store.

Dominguez Marketing Communications, Inc. - One of the Philippines leading and most respected public relations and marketing organizations. Established in July 1995 and fully incorporated in January 1997, the company has become more than a Public Relations Company as it prefer to call themselves an Integrated Marketing Communications Company. Contact them through tel. no. (02) 897708, email pr@dominguezmarketing.net or visit their website www.dominguezmarketing.net.

Comm&Sense - One of the first marketing communications agency in the country to offer inbound marketing solutions. At the core of Comm&Sense’s strategy is Content Marketing. Content Marketing fullfils the goal of finding your customers, without annoying them. This is accomplished by strategically and consistently feeding them with content that they want. More info at www.commsenseinc.com. You can contact them via email makemerelevant@commsenseinc.com or tel. no. (02) 893-5274.

True Blends the Strip - Hailed as one of the most popular cafes in Ortigas by Zomato Food Guide and published by Yahoo! Philippines. True Blends’ hearty and healthy drinks makes use of the finest quality tea leaves and coffee beans. True Blends also offers All-day Breakfast Meals, Combo Meals, Tidbits such as Mojos and Chicken Chops, Sandwiches and Sausages at a student friendly price. True Blends is located along Ortigas Avenue just between Mercury Drug Store and 7-11 at Medical City Pasig. You can also call for delivery at (02) 697-7977. And, they also offer flexible and affordable milk tea booth packages for event.

Sugarleaf - Foods that Nourish and Healthy Choices. The company advocates healthy living through organic foods and natural health. Their mantra s “Let Food be your medicine!” For more info, contact Mr. Angelo Narciso Songso via email angelo@sugraleafph.com, tel. no. (02) 385-0387 or visit their website www.sugarleafph.com

Unilab - The biggest pharmaceutical company in the Philippines. The company has a market share of some 20 percent which it has consistently maintained for more than three decades. Its portfolio includes some of the biggest prescription and consumer healthcare brands in the country. To know more about the company, visit www.unilab.com.ph.

Lightwater - Water is the purest and most natural beverage in the world. The brand’s goal was to create a beverage which is both pure and also functional to meet everyone’s needs. So they added more function to water to make it better. they added vital electrolytes which will hydrate and keep body systems running smoothly. For more info about lightwater, please contact: Suncoast Brands International Corporation via info@suncoastbrands.com or visit www.drinklightwater.com and www.drinkthyvitamins.com for their Vitamin Boost brand.

GeiserMaclang Marketing Communications Inc. (GMCI) - Transformative values-based marketing campaigns designed to influence perception and change beliefs. The company is known for innovation and strategic marketing in the communications industry. Our services include strategy, branding, digital, crisis and issues management, integrated marketing and events, among others. Contact them through tel. no. (02) 856-4624, email info@geisermaclangnetwork.com or visit www.geisermaclang.com.

Lamoiyan Corporation - The first Filipino Company to succeed in penetrating the local toothpaste industy, long dominated by mutinationals. With Hapee, their own brand of toothpaste since their formal inauguration in March 1988, the company was able to maintain a consistent quality standard that was patronized and love by the Filipinos nationwide. Lamoiyan also provides a variety of quality products for oral care, household and personal care at an affordable cost. Some of our brands includes Hapee, Kutitap and Gumtect toothpastes. Dazz dishwashing paste/liquid, and Licealiz for lice infestations. To know more about them, visit www.lamoiyan.com.

Breville - An iconic Australian and global brand. Design and innovation have underpinned this success. From the Snack'n'Sandwich maker in 1974, to the wide feed tube Juice Fountain™ in 1999, and the Professional 800 Collection of today, Breville has provided inspiration to generations of customers.

Though Breville's roots are in Australia, Breville-designed products are now sold in more than 30 countries around the world, including the United States. Like a true Australian however, Breville has remained grounded, despite its global success. Breville is proof that some companies still listen to customers. Visit www.breville.com.ph to know more about their products.

Mondelez International - One big company. The company believes that above all, in one thing – something that’s unique to their organization – and that’s the power of Big and small. They have the scale and resources of a global powerhouse. But also the speed, creativity and agility of a fresh new start-up. Oreo and Tang are just two of their popular products. Visit http://ph.mondelezinternational.com to know more about them.

Sweet Treats by Aci Girl – Yummy goodies for all occasions. Looking gift ideas this holiday season? How about delicious baked products from blogger baker? Contact Aci Girl though SMS/Viber (09287741731), Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/SWEET-TREATS-by-ACI_GIRL or Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/sweetaci.

With the overflowing support that FBN receives this year from different partner brands and members of the group this year, bigger and better opportunities and events are coming soon in the horizon.

So How's Your Hair These Holidays?

Christmas is a great time for merrymaking, but then it can also be a terrible season for stress. Work may greatly increase as the holidays approach; add to that a heavy rotation of parties, intense decision-making on what gifts to buy and frantic scheduling for gatherings.


All these frenzied activities may take a toll on your appearance, especially your hair. Your mane may tend to misbehave at this point, just when you’re about to attend one party after another. 

But don't stress yourself out, as the acclaimed Japanese hair-care brand, SYOSS, gives you the haute coiffure pampering these holidays.

SYOSS offers professional hair care, styling and coloration that provide a wide range of benefits and solutions to help turn dreaded bad-hair days to experiencing great salon-beautiful hair every day. Isn’t that what every woman wants and desires?

Through its wide range of high-performing products that address the most common hair dilemmas of women in more than 50 countries, SYOSS stays true to its brand philosophy of helping them achieve professional hair care at an affordable price.

SYOSS contains a specially formulated hair-care technology called “Pro-Cellium Keratin,” which was developed by top Japanese hairdressers to provide treatment for damaged hair by penetrating hair strands and reconstructing them from the inside.

SYOSS lets you look sensational, as its shampoos and conditioners come in three variants: Repair Therapy, Moisture Intensive Care and Anti-Dandruff Control. Repair Therapy is designed to repair heavily damaged, stressed, colored or permed hair. Moisture Intensive Care is formulated to moisturize dry, frizzy and brittle hair. Anti-Dandruff Control contains Zinc Pyrithione, which fights dandruff from the first application while providing smoothness to the hair.

SYOSS also has a hair coloration range that provides perfect gray coverage with long-lasting and intensely vibrant colors. Women can choose among eight shades: Black, Dark Brown, Chocolate Brown, Dark Mocha, Medium Brown, Dark Ruby Red, Medium Ash Blonde and Extra Light Ash Brown.

No hairstyle is perfect for the holidays without a styling product’s final touch! The SYOSS hair styling products make it easy to achieve professional-looking hairstyles without going to the salon. Curl Control whip and cream give defined, long-lasting curls, full of perfect bounce and smoothness while Strong Hold wax provides mega-strong hold to achieve individual looks easily.

SYOSS also introduces a revolutionary new range, the Oleo Intense, which is an oil-infused salon-quality range for 100% intensive nourishment and color intensity. It comes in shampoos, conditioners and hair coloration products. The shampoo and conditioner, when used together, nurture your hair with precious oil that results to opulent shine and suppleness. On the other hand, the pure oil in Oleo Intense hair color intensifies the coloring action, delivering a higher amount of pigments, deeper into the hair cortex and maximizing the color efficiency.

Avoid the Christmas rush and let SYOSS make you look sensational this season. Find it at all leading supermarkets, department stores, and drugstores nationwide.

About Henkel
Henkel operates worldwide with leading brands and technologies in three business areas: Beauty Care, Laundry & Home Care, and Adhesive Technologies. Founded in 1876, Henkel holds globally leading market positions both in the consumer and industrial businesses with well-known brands such as Persil, Schwarzkopf and Loctite. Henkel employs about 47,000 people and reported sales of 15,605 million euros and adjusted operating profit of 2,029 million euros in fiscal 2011. Henkel’s preferred shares are listed in the German stock index DAX.

Christmas Light Show Grand Launch at Filinvest City

Its Christmas time once again and there’s nowhere else to celebrate and be merry. It is here at Filinvest City where “Everything is Christmas”.

Last Sunday, December 1, 2014, Filinvest City launched its month-long musical light show celebration. Friends and guests flocked to the newly-opened River Park at Festival Supermall to witness this very festive event. 

Christmas Light Show Grand Launch at Filinvest City

The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra and the very talented Ms. Bituin Escalante serenaded everyone with their beautiful renditions of some classic music and Christmas songs.

The Manila Philharmonic Orchestra performs at Filinvest City 

Ms. Bituin Escalante wows the crowd at Filinvest Vity

There was also a merry production number performed by Christmas characters like Mr. and Mrs. Claus, the Elf, little Drummer Boy, among others that really delighted the kids, especially my son Ivan. 

Had this photo opp with no one else but Santa Claus, what an early treat.

Filinvest City, with this season’s campaign, “Everything is Christmas”, aimed to keep everyone inspired this holiday. Also with their goal to be the “Christmas Capital of the South’, they have lined-up a series of activities that will bring excitement and spirit of Christmas to those living in the South and to everyone else who can come to visit.

Now on its second year, the Musical Light Show will run daily for the whole month of December from 6 to 9 pm. There will also be fireworks display at 9pm every Sunday night.

Over 5,000 christmas lights were installed at the River Park, Festival Supermall which also offers a great dining outlets like Market Basket, Chef’s Barrel, Asikawa Ramen Bangaichi, Mati’s Meats and Bread, and Starbucks.

Schedule of Events and Performances:
December 5 – Ateneo Chorale
December 6 – UP Chorale
December 7 – Paolo Santos
December 12 – DLSU Chorale
December 13 – DLSZ Chorale
December 14 – Barbie Almalbis
December 19 – UST Chorale
December 20 – Ballet Philippines & Kundirana
December 21 – Jimmy Bondoc
December 28 – MYMP

For more information on Filinvest City events call (+632)846-0278. You may also like and follow their Facebook and Instagram accounts.



About Filinvest City:
Inspiring Possibilities! A leisurely 15-minute drive away from Makati, Filinvest City is a prime development of Filinvest, a leader in Philippines’ property development for over fifty years. Guided by the Gotianun family’s tradition of integrity, quality and service, it forgesahead with renewed dynamism.

PINE SUITES: YOUR HOME SWEET HOME IN TAGAYTAY

Crown Asia, a privately-owned real estate company in the Philippines recently had a ground-breaking ceremony for its latest project, Pine Suites Tagaytay.

Pine Suites Tagaytay is a medium-rise 5-storey residential buildings with 347 residential units and 104 parking lots. It is composed of 3 buildings comprising a total area of 10,023.74sqm. It has a Modern Danish Architecture and Pine Tree alcoves theme concept. It will have a very private tree-lined entrance, a stylish lobby with awelcoming fireplace, panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. Every 2-bedroom suite will have its individual patio or balcony. 

A 2-bedroom premiere end-unit has a total floor area of 51.79 sqm, including its balcony and drying cage. On the other hand, the 2-bedroom suite inner unit has a total floor area of 48.38 sqm. Also with balcony and drying cage.

Amenities include: a clubhouse, leisure pool, fitness gym, function room, game room, lounge area, landscaped parks and playground.

Pine Suites Tagaytay is available for the following payment terms: SPOT CASH, DEFERRED CASH, BANK FINANCING and IN-HOUSE FINANCING. There’s also currently a buyer’s promo wherein, a buyer can either get a free dinner buffet for 2 or an iPad mini.

Why Tagaytay? Tagaytay is a well-known mountain-resort city located in the province of Cavite, at the southwestern region of the island of Luzon in the Philippines. Situated approximately 56 kms south of Manila. One of the best choice for residence outside of Metro Manila by many of the country’s elite, relocating expatriates, and retired couples.

Just like the many other gated communities in the city,Pine Suites Tagaytay is near some shopping and dining places, leisure and amusement parks, hospitals, schools, police and fire stations and several famous churches.

If your answer is a resounding YES to all of these

§ Do you want a rest house?
§ Do you want a secured investment?
§ Do you want to be closer to nature?
§ Do you want to invest?
§ Do you want to own a piece of Tagaytay?

Then, Pine Suites Tagaytay is the best investment for you and your family. Make your good choice now.

For more information, you may get in touch with Crown Asia Sales Office at 0999 886 4261 or 0905 311 9151. You may also like and follow their Facebook and Instagram accounts.

Unboxing the Kahone Arts and Crafts Box

Got this very intriguing box from Play Date Soon event.

While still riding the bus on our way back, my little boy Ivan would like to readily open it but I requested him to wait until we got home which he agreed.

So upon reaching home, while I am still busy settling all out things, he got himself busy with the Kahone box and he was so surprised getting all of these.

Inside the box were various activity crafts sealed individually in plastic cases. What we got was the October box and accordingly the month’s theme is “Around the World”. There were descriptions and step-by-step instructions for each activity.

Ivan was so excited and he seems had difficulty deciding which one to do first. He even told me if he can do all of them tonight, LOL! So I had to explain that each craft should be done one at a time daily so that he can fully understand and enjoy himself doing it.

So his very first project was the necklace made out of macaroni noodles. He had the noodles painted individually with the provided poster color. Afterwards, he stringed each one of them. And voila! A very colorful necklace for MommyGiay.

HOW IT WORKS!

What is a Kahone? Kahone is a monthly subscription themed activity box that was created out of passion for some hands-on fun that promotes learning as well. Each box contains all the materials and instructions for 3 – 4 activities revolving about one theme that a parent and a child can do together.

Ivan's finished project from October Kahone Box

What’s great about it? A Kahone box is delivered to your doorstep monthly. It will save you time and effort going to the craft store and finding those interactive projects.

Want to give Kahone a try? Subscribe one now! You may begin with a single box purchase or sign up at the subscription options.

Visit their website for more details. You may also like and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

HAPPY UNBOXING FOR YOUR KAHONE BOX!

Super Enjoy Afternoon at Play Date Soon Event

Last Sunday had been an exciting and wonderful day for me and my little boy Ivan. We headed to the Metro and spent the whole afternoon at Babyland Spaces. I was luckily invited to the Play Date Soon event organized by celebrity mom LJ Reyes and the very beautiful Tiffany Tuazon.

We are the very first guest who arrived and according to Ms. LJ, they are still setting-up. Anyway, Ivan immediately comforted himself at the play area. They got a very nice spot for the kids because the flooring is rubberized, and there are mini-houses and mini-slides and some toys that really amazed the kids. Soon the venue was filled with others guests, moms and kids, and set-up by the different sponsors.

Moms and kids participated in some yoga exercises spearheaded by Urban Ashram. And there were these two little babies who kept on giggling seeing their moms move about, to everyone’s delight.

Teacher Mariel of The Learning Basket did some story-telling with the moms. Miss Chriselle of MollyManners conducted an interactive activity for the grown-up kids. My little boy Ivan had so much fun looking for those golden chocolate coins and participated in some games and craft activities.

Snacks and sweet treats were provided by Rufo’s, Serenitiea, Sweet Nest, Gypsy Girl and Mommy Treats. I really had to control my little boy’s sweet tooth cravings (mine as well ha!ha!) because these assortment of goodies are really delectable and tempting.

Some guests including me won in the raffle. There were lots of giveaway prizes from JoomaJam, Momas & Papas, K’Tan Baby Carrier, GCs from Reluxe Spa. We won the very intriguing Kahone Art Box, read our unboxing HERE.

Everyone went home much happier with a bag of gifts.

Also spotted at the event were local celebrities daddy Marco Alcaraz and mommy Bettina Carlos, with their own kids.

Again, my heartful thanks to Ms. LJ and Ms. Tiffany for inviting us. We really had a blast and full of enjoyable moments. Looking forward to more playdates.

The Secret to Taking The Plunge? Confidence

Living the life you’ve always dreamed of begins with confidence. If you feel that it’s the one thing you’re missing, here are a few steps that will help you gain self-assurance.

Know your strengths and weaknesses. Confidence comes from knowing who you are, which means being able to determine both your strengths and weaknesses. By being in touch with both, you can make better life choices. This is also a good gauge on things you need to improve on and work hard at, helping you create a better version of yourself which you can be proud of.

Expect your success. Pessimism is not just draining: it also undermines your performance. Expecting the worst possible outcome can dampen your spirits and make you more worrisome rather than hopeful. Choosing to think that the outcome will be positive and successful helps in building your confidence.

Take risks. Ironically, taking risks helps develop us into becoming better people. There’s no confidence found in doing the same things over and over again. We develop who we are by doing things that we don’t naturally do. By overcoming things that used to scare us, we develop a stronger sense of self, something needed in becoming more confident.

Confidence also comes from having a strong support system, liike your friends and family. A longtime partner of risk-takers everywhere who like taking the plunge is Nestea in a Bottle. Nestea’s convenient, easy-to-bring bottle makes it easy to go from one adventure to another without any hassle. Coming in three exciting flavors of Apple, Lemon Ice, and Lemon, there’s one for all kinds of risk-taking adventures.

Media Forum: Results of ADVANCE-ON Study on Intensive Glucose-Lowering Treatment (World Diabetes Day 2014)

Diabetes is a disease condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. This is due to deficiency or lack of insulin which is needed to utilize blood sugar.

In the Philippines, diabetes is considered one of the leading cause of death among Filipinos. Ranked at #8, in 2004-2008 data showed there 22 Filipinos died of diabetes and its complications for every 100,000 population. In 2009, it rose to 24 and possibly rising due to major risk factors such as lifestyle, diet, sedentary habits, excessive smoking and consumption of alcohol and hereditary predispositions, among others.

Complications of diabetes are: cerebrovascular diseases, retinopathy, heart disease, nephropathy, neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease in the lower limbs, ulceration and amputation for diabetic foot.

Diabetes, however, is a controllable and preventable disease through lifestyle modifications and the correct medications.

In a media forum (in observance of the World Diabetes Day 2014) held last November 12, 2014 at the EDSA Shangri-la Hotel, presented to the public was the result of this worldwide long-term study which aimed to assess the effects of intensive glucose and blood pressure control of major vascular outcomes in a broad cross-section of patients with type 2 diabetes through the ADVANCE and ADVANCE-ON.

What is ADVANCE? Action in Diabetes and Vascular Disease PreterAx and DiamicroN MR Controlled Evaluation, was one the largest morbidity-mortality trials conducted in type 2 diabetes. ADVANCE is an investigator-initiated trial designed, conducted, analyzed, and interpreted independently of sponsors. Median duration of follow-up was 5 years.

The Philippines, with four (4) accredited testing centers was among the 20 countries where the study was conducted for more than 10 years period and covered 11,140 patients aged 55y old and above. The four centers are: Philippine General Hospital led by Dr. Mary Anne Lim-Abraham; East Avenue Medical Center – Dr. Maria Teresa Plata-Que; Makati Medical Center – Dr. Augusto Litonjua; and at the Institute for Studies on diabetes Foundation – Dr. Araceli Panelo.

What is ADVANCE-ON? Action in Diabetes and Vascular Disease PreterAx and DiamicroN MR Controlled Evaluation – Post Trial ObservatioNal Study. A post trial follow-up study involving all surviving patients from the ADVANCE trial for another 5.9 years (median).

Results proved that long-term intensive glucose control based on a gliclazide-modified release strategy among diabetes patients may create a major impact on the reduction of kidney failure. According to leading researchers of the ADVANCE-ON Post-trial Observational Study, an intensive glucose-lowering treatment is likely to produce major long-term benefits for the kidneys.

With this strategy, diabetes patients may have lower risk of renal failure that requires dialysis or transplantation. Researchers also note that patients did not experience any increase or decrease in the risks of death as well as any cardiovascular disease.

The findings highlight the importance of active and effective blood glucose management for renal protection in patients with type 2 diabetes. According to the study director and first author Associate Professor Sophia Zoungas, of the George Institute for Global Health at the University of Sydney, among patients with long standing type 2 diabetes, blood pressure-lowering treatment with perindopril-indapamide for an average of 4.5 years resulted in attenuated but significant long-term benefits with respect to death from any cause and from cardiovascular causes, whereas intensive glucose control for an average of 5 years did not provide any long term benefits with respect to death or major vascular events. (Zoungas, S. et.al. Follow-up of Blood-Pressure Lowering and Glucose Control in Type 2 Diabetes, The New England Journal of Medicine, Sept 2014).

The ADVANCE-ON research was funded by National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, the British Heart Foundation, Diabetes UK, and Servier International

Italianni’s New Twists to Old Hits!

Who wants Italian dishes? I think most Filipinos love Italian food and of course our love for pasta.

Italian indulgence might be the reason why people would initially go to Italianni’s.There are a lot of rightful reasons for this. Besides the quality food and family-friendly environment, Italianni’s has proven time and time again how it can reinvent itself.

Italianni’s presents new and improved dishes that are pretty to the eyes and yummier in your tummy. Your much loved house specialties and favorites are improved with the belief that better is always best. Now Italianni’s can really cater to your every mood. Every visit is guaranteed an experience where customers fall in love with Italianni’s now more than ever.

You can start your new and improved Italianni’s experience with either the Crostinis with at least three mouthwatering dips to choose from or the Italian Truffle fries. Italianni’s can assure that this will jumpstart your appetite for a gastronomic experience. You can follow it with a classic Italianni’s Salad and munch on some fresh greens or you can go the exact opposite and go big with the oven-roasted Lamb which is so good, it’s only available at Italianni’s Greenbelt, High Street, and Mall of Asia. Now that’s a lamb you should really follow.

If you’re opting for a little seafood but also craving some pizza, then you’re in for a treat. You can have the Smoked Salmon and Dill pizza made with cream cheese, goat cheese, onion, and gorgonzola dill sauce. To make it the perfect Italian combination, get the Peperoncino and Chorizo pasta and you’ll feel like you’re just in Italy with its fresh spaghetti pasta tossed in olive oil, bacon, shrimp, and olives.

If you’re feeling a little adventurous, try the ever so delicious Panna Cotta, a freshly made Italian cooked cream served with sauce and topped with caramelized oatmeal. All it’s goodness is presented in a jar that is just as good to go as it is to eat in the restaurant.

If you feel like only having a small snack that is just as filling but not as heavy, you can go for the Light and Easy sandwiches with a choice of salad or soup of the day and sourdough bread. You can choose from Italian Meatballs, Salami and Olives, Smoked Ham and Tomatoes, Shrimp and Dill, Prosciutto, Chicken, and Smoked Salmon. It can even be our little secret if you order all of them just to get a bite of all the goodness in every sandwich. Or you can settle for the tasty complimentary Italian bread served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and it’s just as good.

Top your new and improved Italianni’s experience with another classic in the form of a strawberry cheesecake and end your meal not only with a fizzle but with a bang.

We don’t even need a celebration to go to Italianni’s anymore. The food is celebration itself.

Check out Italianni’s social media pages:
Facebook: Italianni’s Philippines
Instagram and Twitter: @ItaliannisPh
Join the hashtag: #ItaliannisPh
For more details visit the website: http://italiannis.com.ph

The Philippines Welcome a New Potent Collagen Drink from Japan

Nowadays, we Filipinos have become health-conscious. that is, we now take care of ourselves either the natural way or by taking health supplements. Whatever options we choose, our ultimate objective is not to get sick thus live a longer life and enjoy more our time with family and friends. 

Among most Asians, the Japanese are considered to possess not just flawless and youthful skin, but also live well beyond their years, with a longevity that is probably the envy of others.

It is a good thing that Filipinos can now also enjoy the benefits of not just looking young, feeling young and moving young as these same secrets are brought to the Philippines by FINE Japan Co., Ltd.

Established in 1974, FINE Japan Co., Ltd. is a nutraceutical company with a reputation to manufacture, research and develop excellent beauty and wellness supplement products that help restore youthful glow to their skin. For more than 40 years, FINE Japan Co., Ltd.is also known for its top-notch ISO 9001 certified manufacturing processes of its products, beginning with research, production to inspection that are all done in-house.

Its success was further highlighted during fiscal year 2013 when FINE Japan Co., Ltd. posted annual sales of more than JP¥ 2.6 billion, or around P1.06 billion. Its unprecedented success in the field of beauty and wellness thus prompted company officials to further expand the business.

Among its well-known creations include natural health-food supplements whose ingredients were gathered and extracted from various plant and animal sources. These were then transformed to food products, health-food supplements, even beverages and cosmetics, all discovered using outstanding product research and made by consistently following high manufacturing standards that will help contribute to a better society.

These qualities further enhanced FINE Japan Co., Ltd.’s reputation as a quality manufacturer of health and wellness products that spread throughout the world, in countries such as the USA, Hong Kong, South Korea, China and Vietnam, and now in the Philippines.

And now, added to the products that will further lift the company’s image in the nutraceutical industry is its newest and most innovative product, Premium HyC 150, which possesses some of the most natural elements that will help restore skin’s youthfulness and active glow as we advance in age.

Premium HyC 150 has a unique combination of 150 mg. of Hyaluronic Acid (HA), Collagen, and Ubiquinol, three major components especially made potent with the right amount of dosage in one sachet to effectively counter the rapid deterioration of the skin because of aging. It works from within, making it more effective than topical creams and lotions, plus the effects are more sustainable and ever increasing. The product is proven effective and truly safe for use by people who not only want to delay the effects of aging but also improve their health. Attesting to the superior quality of the product, Premium HyC 150 has won the prestigious Monde Selection Gold Award in 2014.

“We want more Filipinos to enjoy their lives longer and healthier, and maintain youthful skin, especially for those advancing in age. With the help of Premium HyC 150 and the expertise of FINE Japan Co., Ltd., consumers can look forward to ‘revealing their new youth’ through beautiful, flawless and youthful skin they can be truly proud of,” explains Imelda ManookTesalona, RPh, President of Fine Nutrition Trading International, the local importer of food supplements by FINE Japan Co., Ltd..

Collagen is a major component of the body that helps keep skin flexible while Hyaluronic Acid, found in the body’s skin tissues, helps hold moisture in the body, reduce skin dryness and at the same time hydrates the joints and connective tissues to prevent problems such as osteoarthritis, and even cataract. Ubiquinol on the other hand is an antioxidant, providing energy and protects skin against free radicals.

Other elements in Premium HyC 150 include Elastin, a protein that allows the skin to “spring back” and keep it resilient and firm. Biotin, on the other hand, helps keep skin, hair and nails healthy, and ease eczema and dermatitis.

The Pearl Coix extract, meanwhile, serves as a detoxificant and promotes clear, fair and luminous skin, while Vitamin C, a natural antioxidant, helps repair the body’s natural collagen and maintains the strength of our body’s tissues.

Premium HyC 150 is exclusively distributed in the Philippines by BrightRAY Enterprises, now available in Watsons stores nationwide. For more information, visit www.HyC150.com.

The Tiny Buds Rice Powder: Then and Now

  
My little boy grew up with Tiny Buds. My ever favorite is the Tiny Buds Rice Powder. I am glad as well when he was among those selected as Tiny Buds Baby Ambassador in 2012. Yes! I can honestly say, I am proud this is one product I always recommend to my relatives and friends.

So why the Tiny Buds Rice Powder? I found out about it when I attended an ExpoMom Event some years back. I was really intrigued by it because accordingly it is made from rice, therefore it is organic and that’s what I primarily like about it. It is unlike those baby powder that we can usually buy in the market that are made from talcum and comes in various scents. But this is the kind that I am avoiding ever since my baby was born. According to his pediatrician, my little boy has asthmatic condition thus powder and colognes is a no-no for him. Sighs! Powder and colognes what makes our babies smell nice right? 

 

And it was a real dilemma for me. More so my little boy is real “pawisin” he sweats a lot especially when playing. They say that makes a boy different from a girl, they prefer to play more and likes running around. But nevertheless I always wanted that Ivan will smell nice and clean even after long hours of playing.

Thankfully, I found the answer. When I began using the Tiny Buds Rice Powder, even with excessive sweating it was less worry for me because I just need to rub some on his back, it repels the sweating thus minimize the need for me to change the towel on his back. And with less “pawis” he now smells so good. 

The Tiny Buds Rice Powder is of premium quality baby powder made from 100% real rice grains. This biodegradable and hypoallergenic baby powder is completely free from harmful talc and other chemicals. It repels water which allows sweat to evaporate naturally. This makes the Tiny Buds Rice Powder perfectly unique in keeping baby’s skin healthy, fresh, moisturized and dry from perspiration. Because it is made from natural ingredient that is rice, it is rich in protein and amino acids. Therefore it provides a natural UV protection for the baby’s delicate skin. It is also perfect for our tropical climate and to counter those rashes that usually occur during the summer months. How about that? So its just like natural food and a real protection for our baby’s skin.

Now my baby is all grown-up, I will never get tired of the Tiny Buds Rice Powder. It is my regular companion wherever we go. Its just like having our best friend with us, a friend that I can always trust and rely for my son’s health and skin protection. 

But did you know that the Tiny Buds Rice Powder is not only for our babies? It can also be used by us mommies and everyone in the family. Instead of using face powder on your face, try this one. Hint: use a kabuki brush to dub it all over your face, it will keep you moisturized all day.

Like Tiny Buds on Facebook and follow them on Twitter for more information and product updates.