A Father: Head of the family and not just a provider

Imagine working in a world where time seems to just past by and where almost everything changes instantly. Think of having to keep up with an environment where it costs a lot to stop or even slow down for a while. Sound taxing, right? What more of prioritizing the welfare of everybody in the household on top of it all. 

But every head of the family doesn’t mind about it. Fathers are said to be the pillars of our homes. They toil sun up to sun down to give our needs and desires.

Some of them go abroad with tears in their eyes because they will be physically separated from their families. However, there is a certain joy in their hearts knowing that they will be able to provide for their loved ones back home.

To honor these gallant paternal men and let them feel how extraordinary they are and important their sacrifices are for their families, Father’s Day has been a yearly universal event. As we mark again this special occasion on Sunday, June 18, 2017, our applause and recognition will never be enough to show them how grateful we are to have them in our lives. 

Our dads, together with our moms, take good care of us the moment we’re born. They are the ones who provide everything we need for our everyday lives. From infancy up to adulthood, they feed and clothe us. 

As we take our initial baby steps, our patriarchs guide and lead us in the right direction. When we stumble and fall, they assist us to rise and move on. In times of danger or any threat, they shield us from any harm.

All of these, they do out of unconditional love. Their selflessness, though, has its own toll. Working tirelessly could lead to high levels of stress constantly and problems not only mentally, but physically, too. So better watch out for the signs. 

Has tatay been constantly complaining about losing strands and strands of his hair every day? Or maybe has he been searching for a way on how to get them to grow back?

According to the hair loss statistics conducted by Statistic Brain in the year 2016, 40 percent of men experience noticeable mane vanishing as early as age 35. And as per the American Hair Loss Association, there are a couple of different factors that cause excessive hair fall, one being extreme degree of stress.

Nutramedica Inc. introduced a revolutionary product that aims to address this problem: NOVUHAIR, nature’s answer to hair loss. Being the only topical scalp lotion in the country that is made from 19 natural herbs, essential oils and co-factor nutrients all working synergistically, it’s perfect for all the heads of the family out there, be they biological or not.

NOVUHAIR is proven effective and safe to help prevent and stop the progression of hair loss and, at the same time, help promote locks’ growth. Simply spray a liberal amount of NOVUHAIR topical scalp lotion onto the scalp and massage for 5-10 minutes. Voila, it penetrates deeply into the roots, which helps rejuvenate, nourish and maintain the natural moisture of the hair. 

Still have no idea on what to give him on his big day? Well, NOVUHAIR might not be the most expensive gift to impress him, but the most valuable present he could ever have. This nature’s answer to hair loss provides him the chance to be ahead already in preventing his “crowning glory” from receding in the near future. 

So, head on to all leading stores nationwide and get a dose of this breakthrough product. NOVUHAIR is also available in shampoo and conditioner formats to further complement the benefits of NOVUHAIR topical scalp lotion. NOVUHAIR is available at Mercury Drug and other leading drugstores nationwide. You may also order NOVUHAIR online at www.lazada.com.ph. For inquiries, you may call 413-6570 or 0922-8830575, and visit www.novuhair.com.

SM Supermalls Happy Moms Day

Can't wait for these events happening at different SM Supermalls nationwide.

Check their site for available events near you https://www.smsupermalls.com/events/mothersday.

Club Balai Isabel Aqua Park Grand Opening

With my little boy Ivan MommyGiay took advantage of the four-days long vacation (being ASEAN Week and National Labor Day) and we had our most sought after day-off.  Just in time we were invited for the Grand Opening of the Club Balai Iabel Aqua Park.

The Aqua Park is a huge inflatable trampoline park afloat the Taal Lake Shore.  It boasts the country's tallest inflatable water slide and with stunning view of the very famous Taal Volcano.

The party was hosted by Mr. George Cariño and Ms. Amy Perez of ABS-CBN Network.  It was also attended by local officials from the Provincial Government of Batangas and Talisay municipality. The designer and creator of the aqua park Mr. Peter Appleton was also there as he explained what's behind the concept of this water park. Accordingly, with his wife they are planning to settle here in the Philippines for more business ventures, which probably means soon there will be more aqua parks around the Philippines.

But for safety reasons, for now the aqua park admits only adults and kids either they are 13 years old above and/or 4 feet in height. Though there's a plan to expand the play area to accommodate the kids 13 years old below, that's good news for Ivan.

I've had my own experience and full enjoyment of the aqua park. Honestly its my first time in something like this. Even when we used to lived abroad, we've never been to an aqua park as we mostly visited the amusement park where husband works.

I was not able to cover the whole area of the Club Balai Isabel Aqua Park because there are certain portions where I had some difficulty maneuvering the obstacles. Yeah! MommyGiay is not so young anymore therefore it is exhausting and I have some fears when it comes to waters. Likewise I never dared to try the giant slide but according to my friends everything here is awesome. Anyway, getting aboard the swan trampoline is already a total enjoyment for me. I fall-off the water once and did I tasted Taal Lake not so fresh water? Good thing, the "kuya" life guards aer so helpful and accommodating.  They all reach out and tried their best to assist everyone. Yeah! they just so great helping me out to maneuver some of the obstacles and getting to the other side.

Thanks http://livelifefullest.com for the photo

Thanks http://ruelumali.com/ for the photo

All in all, it was a fun and great adventure.  Hopefully we can extend some more time and enjoyed basking in the morning sun.  But for now, there's long line for the other guests waiting for their turn to experience the aqua park adventure.  Well, I'll make sure I can come back some other time and bring my whole family here.

Also it was time for us to go, my little boy borrowed the staff's megaphone and called on MommyGiay.  "Mommy go back, I am hungry and I want water", everyone hearing it, ha!ha! Moms with kids can't really have 100% relax mode even while on vacation.  And he had his share of tantrums as he was not allowed yet access to the aqua park. Nevertheless, he enjoyed long hours of swimming at Balai Isabel's vast swimming pool.

Thanks to my blogger friends for the whole 2-days fun and adventurous summer vacay with you. Its always nice going back to Club Balai Isabel. For more details you may visit their website http://www.balaiisabel.com or at their Facebook and Instagram pages for more updates on promotions and club activities.

At the end of the day let us always thank the Lord God for all His beautiful creations.

Kiddie summer workshops open in SM Supermalls all over the country

SM Supermalls kicks off summer with exciting activities inviting children of all ages to learn new skills, discover another hobby and develop their talents through SM Summer ‘Musements in an SM Supermall near you starting April.

Parents who usually struggle with leaving kids at home during summer months now have more choices to continue enriching and entertaining their kids in the safety and comfort of their nearest SM Supermall.

The Kids at Work sessions, from April 18 to 30, is back to provide kids interactive summer workshops, where they can learn how to act, dance, draw and paint, sing, or play their first musical instrument. On April 1 to 12, participating SM Supermalls will hold music festivals and acoustic nights featuring well-loved music artists, as well as set up interactive playgrounds and art installations. Food tenants will also be offering special dining deals on April 21 to 23, April 28 to 30, and May 5 to 7.

Another anticipated highlight is the Grand Kids’ Zumba events from May 1 to 13, as this summer season can also be the best time for children to start healthy fitness habits. With online gaming as part of the key factors, studies show that the overweight rate of children in the Philippines has almost doubled over the last two decades. Play and sports are now available options in the malls this summer to provide physical exercise and social interaction for youngster of all ages.

Mall-goers are also invited to join the #SuperSummerAtSM2017 digital promo, powered by Vivo from April 1 to May 13. #SuperMoms and #IdolDads all need to do is to share their kids’ happiest summer moment on Facebook, then use its official hashtag #SuperSummerAtSM2017 for a chance to win exciting prizes.

For more updates about Super Summer at SM 2017 and exclusive news about SM Supermalls, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM’s official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; and get an insider access to all the fun happenings at SM Supermalls nationwide through SM’s Viber Public Chat. #EverythingsHereAtSM

Novuhair encourages you to understand your hair

Other than your face, your hair is one of the first thing that other people notices, this very reason is why most people take extra effort in caring for their mane, but are you doing enough?

A hair salon is one of the usual places that a person would go to whenever they need to have their hair fixed, this is typical if you just need a relief from a bad hair day or to mend your split ends. What if your hair needs a more extensive solution such as for your hair loss?

Several factors can cause hair loss and understanding your lifestyle pattern may help remedy your condition.

· Stress is the most common factor in temporary hair loss.

· Incorrect use of hair products with harmful chemicals

· Childbirth also causes temporary hair loss

· Cosmetic procedures such as Rebonding, Perming, Bleaching and Dyeing

· Autoimmune diseases such as Alopecia.

· Medical treatment such as chemotherapy and Beta-blockers 

· Medical conditions such as Lupus, Diabetes, Anorexia and Anemia can also cause hair loss

Say goodbye to hair loss and scalp problems with Novuhair, natures answer to hair loss. Novuhair is made with 19 natural ingredients that include moringa oleifera, panax ginseng, virgin coconut oil and the natural essences of rosemary and peppermint and almost 100% natural.

Novuhair nourishes the scalp and hair by increasing the flow of nutrients and improving blood circulation to the scalp. Novuhair also helps hydrate the scalp, maintain the hair’s natural luster and prevent early hair graying, hair dryness and itching. It also penetrates deep to rejuvenate the hair follicles, provides optimum nutrition to help combat hair loss and/or thinning of hair, improves blood circulation in the scalp which contributes to the stimulation of hair growth.

Have your hair and scalp analyzed in order to check for problems. Novuhair, is offering a series of free hair and scalp analysis is various locations, check their monthly schedule at www.novuhair.com, Facebook page: www.facebook.com/NovuhairOfficial, Instagram: @NovuhairOfficial or on Twitter: @NovuhairNatural. You may also call the Novuhair hotlines at 4136570 and 09228830575.

Novuhair Topical Scalp Lotion, Shampoo and Conditioner are available in all Mercury Drug Stores and other leading drug stores nationwide. For online purchases, visit Lazada.com.ph and regaloservice.com.

Dermcare Brings Beauty and Care

Channeling your beauty to radiate doesn’t come overnight, your skin requires pampering and care of a professional center that understands your needs. A center that provides all your skin pampering necessities has now come into full bloom as it introduces its new look and logo. 

For 2 decades, Dermcare have continuously shared their unfailing love and concern for their customers, delivering utmost satisfaction to your every vanity regardless of gender, age, social standing, and personal preferences.

Dermcare have been like a second home to their clients as the center treats each customer as part of their family. The care that Dermcare delivers manifest through repeat customers that keeps coming back for the very reason that they feel that they belong.

Understandably, you would only want the best for the ones you hold dear to your heart. This is why Dermcare has up the ante, so everyone in your family and social circle can experience the care and passion that only Dermcare can give. 

Pag-IBIG Recognizes Dermcare’s contribution to the community

Pag-IBIG Loyalty Card recently awarded Dermcare the “Loyalty Cardholder’s Favorite Partner” which equated to the number of cardholders who had the privilege to enjoy discounts at Dermcare branches nationwide. 

Pag-IBIG Fund launched its Pag-IBIG Loyalty card Program in the year 2014. The program aims to extend the benefits given by Pag-ibig Fund to its members not just thru short term and housing loans but also to give them additional privilege in other necessities. Dermcare has been a Partner of Pag-IBIG Loyalty card since then.

Dermcare has served the Pag-IBIG members nationwide thru its more than 80 branches. In 2016 alone, Dermcare has already extended an accumulated amount of more than P500,000 worth of discounts to around 2,000 Pag-IBIG Loyalty card members who enjoyed up to 50% discount of Dermcare services and products.

New Logo, New Face

Dermcare's new logo is fused together with the care-centric ideals that they have at present. The flowers represent their growing clientele and how it has captured the hearts and gained the trust of the public.

In line with the new logo, Dermcare also launches the face of Dermcare - Ms. Nina Robertson, Mutya ng Pilipinas - Overseas Communities 2015. Nina embodies all the qualities that represents Dermcare, vibrant and full of energy!

True to its mission, Dermcare desires to foster care to its numerous clients by providing top-quality skin, hair and wellness services, as well as encompass the years of remarkable love and care for their customers. 

Visit your nearest Dermcare branch today. For more information, follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/i.like.dermcare.

Smurfs Happy Meal Toys: The Lost Village

Delight your kids with a fantastic adventure with McDonald’s new Smurfs Happy Meal toys! Collect all eight (8) Smurfs Happy Meal toys in vibrant colors for a fun playtime experience. Each toy features a specially designed Smurf house and two unique Smurf friends, including favorite Smurfs characters like Papa Smurf, Brainy Smurf and Smurfette, so you can complete your own Smurfs village.

These adorable Smurfs Happy Meal toys are now available in all McDonald’s stores nationwide starting March 25. Each toy comes FREE with every purchase of a McDonald’s Happy Meal! Customers can choose from a Cheesy Eggdesal or 1-pc Chicken McDo during breakfast hours and 1-pc Chicken McDo, 4pc Chicken McNuggets, Burger McDo or McSpaghetti during regular hours. Happy Meals come with a choice of fries or corn and orange juice for a delicious treat!

Make your playtime extra magical with the latest McDonald’s Happy Meal collection. Share photos of your Smurfs village on McDonald’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/McDo.ph, or tag @McDo_PH on Twitter and Instagram.

LOVE YOUR HAIR WITH NOVUHAIR

At times when people sees us too stressed out either at work or going through our personal lives, We would be advised to calm down and “Let our hair down”, this idiom’s meaning is to allow yourself to behave much more freely than usual and enjoy yourself.

To give us much more reason to be carefree, we must be confident on how we look and feel. Take time to take care of your appearance and take extra attention to your hair. Hair is considered as our crowning glory, hence, it is pertinent that we start with it. Here are a few tips in maintaining a healthy hair.

· Observe good hygiene all the time – regularly wash your hair to remove dirt and grimes.

· Be extra careful whenever combing your wet hair – your hair is vulnerable to breakage during this period.

· Use towel to dry off your hair after shower – Using hair dryer can cause damage to your hair; if you must use the heat then do so sparingly.

· Eat the proper nutrition- Our hair is also dependent on what we eat. Iron-rich food and protein strengthens your hair.

· Have enough sleep – Lack of sleep can cause hair loss. Sleeping allows our hair to repair and regenerate. Changes in our sleeping patterns have shown to affect our body’s immune and hormone function, as well as our physical and mental stamina. Our hair is very sensitive to these changes within the body.

· Pamper your hair - Give your hair a proper massage with the nutrients it needs

Novuhair, nature’s answer to hair loss is made of 19 Natural ingredients which includes herbal components such as moringa oleifera, panax ginseng, virgin coconut oil and the natural essences of rosemary and peppermint. 

Novuhair nourishes the scalp and hair by increasing the flow of nutrients and improving blood circulation to the scalp. Novuhair also helps hydrate the scalp, maintain the hair’s natural luster and prevent early hair graying, hair dryness and itching. #LoveYourHairwithNovuhair

Novuhair Topical Scalp Lotion, Shampoo and Conditioner are available in all Mercury Drug Stores and other leading drug stores nationwide. For more information visit www.novuhair.com, like the brand’s official Facebook Page at Novuhair Official, follow it on Twitter at @NovuhairNatural and on Instagram @novuhairofficial. You may also call the Novuhair hotlines at 4136570 and 09228830575 and order online at Lazada and regaloservice.com.

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: PCARI Scholarships Program

The Philippine-California Advanced Research Institutes (PCARI) Project is a capacity-building/technology-generating collaborative initiative designed to upgrade to global standards the research, development and innovation capabilities and competencies of the faculty, students and staff of Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs). The PCARI Project is a new approach that will enhance their skills and expertise through scholarships, training and research partnerships with top-notch research universities in California, USA, initially, with the University of California San Francisco (UCSF) and the University of California Berkeley (UCB) in the areas of health innovation and translational medicine (HITM) and in information infrastructure and development (IID). 

The PCARI Scholarships Project will support Master’s and Ph.D. degrees, and postdoctoral studies with the PCARI as funding agency and DOST-Science Education Institute (SEI) as implementing agency. 

The objective of this Project is to develop the critical mass of scientists, technologists and innovators in Philippine HEIs capable of generating and translating technologies into innovations that will address societal problems. Scholars under this project will have an opportunity to interact with the elite researchers of the University of California and will be part of the top talents in the country who are active in fundamental and applied research relevant to the country’s socio-economic development and the long-term competitiveness of the Philippines. 

PRIORITY FIELDS

Health Innovation and Translational Medicine
Information Infrastructure Development


SCHOLARSHIP OFFERINGS

Degree Programs (Local/Foreign)
Master’s Degree Program with Thesisor Project
Full Ph.D. Program
Sandwich Programs for Master’s and Doctoral Degrees
Non-Degree Programs (Local/Foreign)
Postdoctoral Study Award


GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

-Filipino citizen
-not more than 45 years old
-degree in relevant disciplines
-research proposal aligned with PCARI priority areas


PRIVILEGES

Tuition and other school fees
Transportation Allowance
Living allowance/Stipend
Dissemination/Conference Attendance Grant
Book Allowance
Travel/Medical Insurance
Application and Other Fees
Thesis/ Dissertation/ Special Project Grant
Startup/Research Grant (For IIID Degree Programs)


Inquire now!

Commission on Higher Education-PCARI Project
Project Management and Coordination Office
Telephone No. (02) 352-5591; 376-1758
Email: info.pcariproject@ched.gov.ph

DOST-Science Education Institute
Telephone No. (02) 837-2071 loc 2389
Email: sei_pcari@yahoo.com.ph

Application Guidelines and form are available for download below.

CHED-AO-No.-02-Series-of-2015-Scholarships-Project-Implementing-Guidelines
PCARI Scholarships Project Announcement
Scholarship-Application-Form  

Be a hero with McDonald’s new DC Girls and Justice League Happy Meal toys

Have an action-packed playtime experience with McDonald’s new DC Girls and Justice League Happy Meal toys. The set features iconic characters from the world-famous superhero franchises, including Superman, Batman, Hawkman, Wonder Woman, and Supergirl. Plus, gear up with exciting accessories like the Hawkman Mask, Wonder Woman Tiara, and Supergirl Headband.

Collect all eight DC Girls/Justice League toys, free with every purchase of a McDonald’s Happy Meal! Customers can choose from a Cheesy Eggdesal or 1-pc Chicken McDo during breakfast hours and 1-pc Chicken McDo, 4pc Chicken McNuggets, Burger McDo or McSpaghetti during regular hours. Happy Meals come with a choice of fries or corn and orange juice for a delicious treat!

Bring out the hero in you or your kids with the latest McDonald’s Happy Meal collection. Share your superhero bonding experience on McDonald’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/McDo.ph, or tag @McDo_PH on Twitter and Instagram.

Novuhair Salutes All Women

In celebration of International Women’s Month this March, Nutramedica Inc., encourages women to speak their mind and know their rights. Be it in society or otherwise, women have excelled over the years, creating a sense of socio-equality that every female across the globe shall be proud of.

This years’ theme is “Be bold for change”, a very subjective manner of approach to the present era where women are called to lead and influence. Novuhair calls for the same thrust.

Novuhair empowers the female population by improving their appearance thru self-help ideas on social media. Channeling their self-esteem and confidence to exude.

Nutramedica Inc. itself is being led by a formidable woman, Sheila Mae Velilla, CEO & President. Ms. Velilla built the company from scratch, exerting much effort in product development and exemplary business & marketing acumen. Founded in 2004, Nutramedica was one of the first companies to market virgin coconut oil (VCO) in the Philippines. Today it is known for its comprehensive range of oral and injectable pharmaceutical lines, food supplements and cosmetic products.

At present, Novuhair has been awarded by Watson’s as the leading Medicated Hair Care Brand in the country for five consecutive years. The effectiveness of the product speaks for itself.

Novuhair is made with 19 natural ingredients that include moringa oleifera, panax ginseng, virgin coconut oil and the natural essences of rosemary and peppermint and almost 100% natural.

Novuhair nourishes the scalp and hair by increasing the flow of nutrients and improving blood circulation to the scalp. Novuhair also helps hydrate the scalp, maintain the hair’s natural luster and prevent early hair graying, hair dryness and itching. It also penetrates deep to rejuvenate the hair follicles, provides optimum nutrition to help combat hair loss and/or thinning of hair, improves blood circulation in the scalp which contributes to the stimulation of hair growth.

Novuhair Topical Scalp Lotion, Shampoo and Conditioner are available in all Mercury Drug Stores and other leading drug stores nationwide. For more information visit www.novuhair.com, like the brand’s official Facebook Page at Novuhair Official, follow it on Twitter at @NovuhairNatural and on Instagram @novuhairofficial. You may also call the Novuhair hotlines at 4136570 and 09228830575 and order online at Lazada and regaloservice.com.

Pinoy students continue to make math, science history in 2016

The country’s young wizards continue to pen their names in the history books. 

Following a record-breaking 614 gold, silver and bronze medals from international science and mathematics competitions in 2015, our national contingents netted a total of 821 medals in 2016, up 33.7 percent from the previous mark.

At the Youth Excellence in Science (YES) Awards—an annual event organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) that recognizes students who win gold, silver and bronze medals in world science and mathematics contests—Secretary Fortunato de la Peña presented the medals to the awardees from Metro Manila and nearby provinces. The ceremony was held on 1 February at the Philippine International Convention Center in Manila. 

Of the total tally, 446 come from the national capital region, while 375 come from the other regions.

Philippine Science High School – Main Campus garnered the most number of international medals with 60, followed by Grace Christian College and St. Jude Catholic School with 37 apiece. Three other schools had 20 or more awardees, namely, De La Salle Santiago Zobel (23), Dr. Yanga’s Colleges, Inc. (21), and Makati Hope Christian School (20).

De la Peña proudly shook the hands of each of the awardees whose historic feats symbolize “a promising future” for the country.

“I cannot contain my joy, not only because this is a proof that Filipinos are doing much better in the fields of math and science; but this is a proof that our future is very promising,” he said.

Aside from the number of awardees, the Secretary highlighted the notable victories last year, in particular, the country’s best finish at the prestigious International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), where the team brought home the first two gold medals in history, along with two silvers and two honourable mentions. De la Peña also noted the wins and the successful hosting of the 5th ASEAN Plus Three Junior Science Odyssey and the 23rd Asia Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum Side events in the Philippines last year as great signs of improved competencies.

In his keynote message, De la Peña also remarked that the more honors the country reaps, the more Filipinos believe in the value of science and technology in the development.

“Providing solutions to different national issues and problems remains a daunting task but we firmly believe that the S&T sector has a great role towards our progress,” he added. “You have all the skills and knowledge, and we at DOST believe that the future of this country is in great hands and minds.”

Meanwhile, top YES Awardees Farrell Eldrian Wu of MGC New Life Christian Academy and Kyle Patrick Dulay of Philippine Science High School (PSHS) Main Campus—the two IMO gold medalists—shared their stories before their fellow medalists and urged them to continue to pursue excellence. Likewise, Hillary Diane Andales, who received a Special YES Award for winning the Popular Vote Award and finishing sixth at the 2016 Breakthrough Junior Challenge, addressed her peers to not be afraid of failures and repeats.

Call for Proposals: Asian Try Zero-G 2017-2018

The Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) is inviting proposals for the "Asian Try Zero-G 2017-2018", an educational program organized by Kibo-ABC of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) that allows everyone to suggest simple space experiments for astronauts to demonstrate in zero-gravity or weightlessness conditions.

Kibo-ABC is a collaborative program established by the Space Environment Utilization Working Group (SEUWG) of the Asia Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF), which aims to promote Kibo utilization in the Asia-Pacific region. It invites its member countries, one of which is the Philippines, to submit experiment ideas that JAXA Astronauts can perform in the International Space Station (ISS).

Proposals should be unique, novel, and informative, and should have never been done in the ISS/Kibo.

There are 2 categories for the Try Zero-G program: Category 1 is for students under 18 years old, and Category 2 is for young scientists and engineers, ages up to 27 years old. The categories have been in place since 2015, to create more innovative ideas from a wider audience.

This year, Astronaut Norishige Kanai of JAXA ISS crew will perform the selected proposals aboard ISS Kibo module.

For the complete guidelines, visit or download the file at http://issstream.tksc.jaxa.jp/iss2/documents/guidelines_call_for_proposals_asianTryZero-G_2017-2018_NC.pdf.

For information on past experiments, visit http://iss.jaxa.jp/en/kuoa/tryzerog/index.html.

To know more about the onboard items that can be used for the experiment, visit/download the file at http://issstream.tksc.jaxa.jp/iss2/documents/available_onboard_items_NC.pdf.

Proposals maybe submitted to DOST-SEI through email address aprsaf23sei@gmail.com.

Deadline for submission of applications is on April 7, 2017.

The selection result will be announced on JAXA web site (http://iss.jaxa.jp/en/kuoa/).

DOST-SEI announces 2,196 qualifiers under JLSS program

A total of 2,196 third year college students passed the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute’s (DOST-SEI) 2016 Junior Level Science Scholarship (JLSS) Examination administered nationwide on 16 October 2016 and in areas affected by Typhoon Karen on 13 November 2016. There were 7,102 third year students in various S&T courses who took the examination.

The JLSS is a scholarship program of the DOST-SEI under the Republic Act No. 7687 or the “Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994”, Republic Act No. 10612 or the “Fast-Tracked S&T Scholarship Act of 2013”, and the Merit Scholarship Program.

Qualifiers of this scholarship program will get to enjoy a 2-3 year S&T scholarships. Those who qualified under RA 7687 and RA 10612 will be entitled to subsidy in tuition fee and other school fees, monthly living allowance, book allowance, among others, in the last 2 or 3 years of their undergraduate studies. Scholars under the Merit scholarship program will likewise receive the same benefits except for the pro-rated monthly stipend based on the scholar’s family socio-economic status.

The implementation of the JLSS supports the goal of the DOST-SEI to substantially increase the number of scientists and engineers needed to boost economic productivity and knowledge creation in the country. Meanwhile, the R.A. 10612 supports the execution of Section 8 of the K to 12 law by providing a pool of scholar-graduates which can competently teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in the basic education.

“The program is aimed at producing more science, mathematics and engineering human resource, which we still lack. It is also important to have content-rich teachers in these critical fields to help us develop stronger science and mathematics foundations among our youth,” Dr. Josette T. Biyo, SEI Director, said.

Upon graduation the S&T scholars will be required to render service to the country, preferably in their home region, for a period equivalent to the number of years they enjoyed the scholarship. The RA 7687 and Merit scholars are expected to work along their fields of specialization while those under RA 10612 shall serve as STEM teachers in any public or private high school in the country. 

Dr. Biyo believes that by fast-tracking graduates in STEM courses, the JLSS under RA 7687, RA 10612, and Merit Program will strengthen the country’s science and technology; and hopes to inspire more scholar-graduates to pursue a career path in science and mathematics teaching.

The new JLSS scholars will get to enjoy the scholarship effective the First Semester of AY 2016-2017.

Click here to view the list of qualifiers.

Get smart and stylish this holiday season with Acer

Today’s generation of technology-oriented individuals will spare no expense to go and achieve their dreams in the swiftest of manners. And they will even do it in style.

Go chic and stylish this holiday season as global tech titan Acer unleashes its latest holiday promo for people who love to #GoSwift and in style and go beyond trends. Acer offers cool freebies every time you buy your favorite Acer laptop, 2-in-1, All-in-One, or projector until December 31, 2016.

For the stylish set, imagine having the best laptop around and wearing a good-looking watch at that while inside your favorite coffee shop and you’ll surely grab attention. The smart Acer Liquid Leap Active Smartwatch is just for you, not just to keep you abreast of time but also as an attractive personal digital companion. Its   1-inch OLED (128 x 32) touchscreen display is a joy to look at, and is perfectly compatible with Android 4.4 systems and above, iOS 7 and iOS 8 and Windows 8.1. It is IPX4 waterproof certified and a full charge can last you 5-7 days. Just buy any Acer laptop with i3 processors or Acer 2-in-1 devices and this nifty gadget worth P850 is yours for free.

The Tomiko DigiBox is a cool addition to your home entertainment system and when watching your favorite TV shows and movies in superb digital format. And pairing this with an Acer projector or desktop makes it a truly excellent multimedia combination. The Tomiko DigiBox supports 1080P high-definition video, comes with a Multimedia Playback function (MPEG 1/2/3/4, MKV, MOV, JPEG, GIF, BMP, PNG) and multiple OSD language, with Auto and Manual Search Functions and powerful program edit capabilities. Best of all, you can get this home entertainment buddy worth P1,200 absolutely free when you buy Acer projectors or Acer All-in-One desktops with i3, i5 or i7 processors inside.

For those who want uninterrupted power and not lose their productivity at work and/or at play, just buy Acer desktops with i3, i5 or i7 processors or Acer Veriton desktops with i3 and i5 processors and get the Emerson UPS worth P1,400 for free. The Emerson UPS guarantees constant and non-stop power during outages for your desktop with high reliability, protection from power surges and overloads and best of all, the Emerson UPS comes in a compact and lightweight form factor. From hereon, no more worries about losing important work in your Acer desktop just because the electricity went out.

Or if you want a cool, light and groovy bag to carry your laptop around safely and securely, just buy qualified Acer laptops (Celeron and Pentium-powered) and you can get the Acer laptop bag worth P300 for free. You’ll get peace of mind knowing that your precious Acer laptop is with you all the time inside your green-and-black Acer laptop bag that you can carry anywhere.

To get the Acer Liquid Leap Active Smartwatch, Emerson UPS, Tomiko DigiBox, or Acer laptop bag, simply buy the qualified Acer products from any Acer participating stores and fill out all necessary information in the Promo Claim Form. Present this together with the Official Receipt, cut-out of Box Serial Number, plus two (2) valid IDs at any authorized Acer redemption area.

When claiming via email, simply submit a clear scanned copy of the Promo Claim Form, Original Receipt, Cut-out of Box Serial Number and two (2) valid ID cards to aphi.promos@acer.com. Follow up on your claim via email through (02) 815-3388 local 100.

Other authorized Acer redemption areas are the Acer Service Center along 1651 Paz Guanzon Street, Paco, Manila, Acer Service Center along F. Cabahug corner Almendras Streets in Mabolo, Cebu City, and Acer Service Center at the ground floor of Ateneo de Davao University, 8016 Roxas Avenue, Davao City.

For more about the Acer holiday promo, #GoSwift and in style and other Acer Philippines’ products, go to www.acer.com.ph, follow Acer via Twitter (twitter.com/acerphils) or www.Facebook.com/AcerPH.

Christmas and More at Club Balai Isabel

Christmas time is here once again! Christmas a we know is the most celebrated holiday among Christians all over the word.  And we Filipinos are known to celebrate it the longest number of days.  As soon as the 'ber month set in that's when we begin to hear christmas carols being played all around - on the radio, shopping malls, jeepneys, tambayans, among others.  Houses and establishments likewise started to decorate to complement the festive mood.

Christmas is the most awaited time of the year for friends and families to gather, celebrate and of course eat together.  Even as we do it within our homes or at outside eating places.

Christmas came in early with my group of blogger friends as we gather to enjoy the year-end at Club Balai Isabel in Talisay, Batangas.

Club Balai Isabel is a favorite place for us because of its lovely scenery, comfy accommodations and delicious food.  Located right at the shores of the world-famous Taal Lake and overlooking across is Taal volcano.  Its a great place to relax and enjoy their various amenities.  Other than taking a dip in their refreshing pools, there are also water sports activities like kayaking and sailing.  What I like most is the personalized body massage you can have right at the comfort of your own room. You can also opt for a boat ride and be brave to go up near the volcano's crater either on horseback or on foot.

There are many rooms and villas you can choose depends on how many you are in a group.  Fully-equipped with queen-sized and single-beds; there are also cooking options and kitchen utensils that are available; flat screen televisions; set of basic toiletries; complementary coffee/tea and drinking water.

Our group stayed in a 2-room villa with loft that served as additional room, can fit at least 14 persons; with three (3) toilets and bath; with complete amenities and our very own veranda overlooking the Taal Lake.

While enjoying our stay, we also feasted on the best of their local and international cuisines.  Famous in this area of Batangas is the "Bulalo" (boiled beef shanks) and the Crispy "Tawilis" ( a small fish that can only be found in the water of Taal Lake.

And because its the festive season, Club Balai also has special something for the holiday season, the "Lakeshore Buffet" beginning on December 16.  After you hear "simbang gabi" at the Spousal of Mary and Joseph Chapel (located within the premises of the resort), take time to feast on their dishes especially prepared by Terraza Cafe.  And on December 31, join them in the New Year's Countdown and be amazed with the fireworks display.

As a preview of the upcoming love month in February 2017, Club Balai Isabel also has its "Romantic Dinner for 2" offering a full course meal composed of pumpkin soup, imperial garden mango salad, Belmont steak, chocolate volcano and home made ice cream and a choice of red wine.

There's more than just a holiday staycation at Club Balai Isabel. For more details follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

@mommygiay

NOVUHAIR’S INFORMATIVE TRUTH ON HAIR CHEMICALS

We may not be aware that we are unknowingly putting harmful chemicals on our hair thus resulting to general conditions such as migraine, nausea and skin rashes. The symptoms may be quickly attributed to stress but if you look closer to that hair product you’re using, you’ll be surprise to find the culprit.

Popularity does not equate to safety, some popular brands sold in the market are loaded with mildly toxic chemicals that may be harmful in prolonged use.

Novuhair, Nature’s answer to hair loss, gives you the lowdown on these chemicals to help you with your choices.

Myth: Shampoo must produce lots of lather in order to properly clean your hair.

Truth: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a compound that helps shampoo and other cleaning product in producing foam and bubbles. Though it may effectively remove hair build-up, it can also strip off essential oils that is needed to keep your hair healthy.

Myth: Parabens has an anti-bacterial compound benefits that outweighs the harm.

Truth: Parabens are basically used to prolong the shelf life of hair and cosmetic products mostly for its antibacterial purpose. Symptoms that are related to over exposure to parabens are Atopic Dermatitis and Rosacea. Further studies also show that use of products with parabens accelerate skin damage and aging related to sun exposure.

Myth: My hair smells terrific! I love the perfume scent on my hair product.

Truth: A nice whiff of perfume might not be harmful but the fragrance that is mixed in your hair product might have come from harmful substances from highly toxic ingredients which can lead to Allergic reactions and mood swings. That perfume is better off somewhere else.

Myth: Hair products that promise straightening and smoothening effect use non-toxic Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate as a natural preservative.

Truth: Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate is a substance used in making your hair soft and bouncy, although it is considered natural preservative, also releases formaldehyde which can lead to skin and eye irritations. Prolonged use may also affect your immune system.

Use of some of these chemicals combined may also result to hair loss and other hair problems, thus, it is important to be an informed consumer. A lot of new products have saturated the market hence, read the labels for fine prints before buying.

Novuhair, nature’s answer to hair loss is made of 19 Natural ingredients which includes herbal components such as moringa oleifera, panax ginseng, virgin coconut oil and the natural essences of rosemary and peppermint. Novuhair nourishes the scalp and hair by increasing the flow of nutrients and improving blood circulation to the scalp. Novuhair also helps hydrate the scalp, maintain the hair’s natural luster and prevent early hair graying, hair dryness and itching.

Novuhair Topical Scalp Lotion, Shampoo and Conditioner are available in all Mercury Drug Stores and other leading drug stores nationwide. For more information visit www.novuhair.com, like the brand’s official Facebook Page at Novuhair Official, follow it on Twitter at @NovuhairNatural and on Instagram @novuhairofficial. You may also call the Novuhair hotlines at 4136570 and 09228830575 and order online at Lazada and regaloservice.com.

HACK THE CLIMATE PUSHING FOR CLEAN TECHNOLOGY IN LEYTE

In the commemoration of the 3rd anniversary of Typhoon Haiyan, Hack the Climate will stage its first ever Clean Technology Hackathon and Training happening in Palo, Leyte and Tacloban City. It is part of the 8th NICP ICT Summit 2016, in partnership with the National ICT Confederation of the Philippines (NICP), DOST Region 8, Philippine Science High School – Eastern Visayas Campus, Seed4com, Move.ph, Millenia Suites, ThinkLab and Unionbank of the Philippines. 

Hack the Climate is a climate change themed Hackathon that is formed out of the desire of a two Princeton University College Students, named Michael Lanchanski and Jacob Scheer to help the Philippines in their battle for climate change through Technology and Innovation. With the help of their Filipino counterparts, Elaine Cedillo, Diego Jose Ramos and Rizzel Jill Dy, Hack the Climate was born in June 2013. 

“Hack the Climate in Leyte is our 5th since we started and we hope that we can bring this project across the country” said Elaine Cedillo, the lead project coordinator for this leg. “Hack the Climate is more than just a hackathon, it is our advocacy. Educating the students and young professionals about the adverse effects of climate change while challenging the developers to create a solution for climate change adaptation or mitigation, and through that, the participants are empowered to do something to help our environment,” she added 

THE CLEAN TECHNOLOGY PROJECTS AND THE HACKATHON

This year’s Hackathon is dubbed as “Hack the Climate Cleantech-Loban” and it will be a three-part event. They will be launching their first solar e-Learning facility for Alternative Learning System and a Solar Night Lamp assembly livelihood training program for the out-of-the school youth and partner NGO’s, plus a conference – hackathon about Climate Change Mitigation and CleanTech.

Philippine Toy Library located at Palo District 1, Barugo Leyte with more than 100 learners and at Pambujan, Samar with more than 90 learners will be the beneficiaries of an e-Learning set-up consisting of laptops from Huawei Philippines powered by solar panels which will be donated by Unionbank of the Philippines through their Go Beyond CSR. The Solar Night Lamp that will be produced during the training will be donated to a fishing community in and around Tacloban. 

The hackathon, a coding marathon, happening on November 9-10, 2016 at Philippine Science High School in Palo, Leyte, involves a specific theme where participants will be creating web or mobile applications, or hardware solutions. The conference happening simultaneously with the hackathon features speakers to educate and enlighten the audience to what is happening with our environment and how it affects each and every one of us, and different technologies which can be used to help in creating solutions.

Clean Techloban is supported by the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation, Inc. and the OML Center for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management Foundation, Inc. and organized by Redwizard Events Management. For more information you may log on to http://hacktheclimate.com/ or like their facebook page  https://www.facebook.com/HackTheClimate