Achieve a Healthier Body and Soul this Lent

Researches support and confirm that certain diets could offer genuine health benefits. As we celebrate the start of Lent, let us look at the health benefits that comes with the different practices we have in observing Lenten traditions.

Fasting

The practice of refraining or limiting the consumption of food or drink for a period of time is observed during Lenten season. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting, but unknown to many, the digestion process has its disadvantages for the human health. According to the Harvard Medical School, the practice of fasting provides our body a rest from taking in toxins found in food and helps in significant weight loss if practiced properly.

Fasting has two common types. Regular, also called full fast, wherein only liquids are consumed, and partial fast, wherein consumption of solids is limited. The norm during this season is the partial fasting wherein an individual decreases food intake by eating one full meal or two smaller meals that are not equal to a full meal in a day.

A word of caution from doctors, if you consider fasting this Lent, make sure that you have no preexisting conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure, as fasting causes electrolyte abnormalities.

Abstinence from meat

Abstinence from eating meat such as beef, pork, and chicken is observed during Fridays and Saturdays of Lent. Instead, fish and vegetables are chosen as substitutes. Fish such as salmon and tuna, is a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids that promote heart health.

Research proves that eating 1-2 servings of fish per week could help cut the risk of dying from heart diseases by 36%. By cutting down the consumption of red meat and processed meat, the risk of taking in less-beneficial fats and high sodium meat is also lessened.

Another popular substitute for meat is egg. An egg contains vitamins A, B, and D and a little saturated fat, which is about 1.5 grams . Nutrients found in the egg such as lutein is good for the eyes and choline good for the brain and nerve health.

According to Harvard Medical school, consuming an egg a day is safe for people without preexisting conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. When eating scrambled eggs or omelets, opt for healthier choices to add to your eggs such as spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms. Always remember that the saturated fat in butter, cheese, bacon, sausage, and bread could raise your blood cholesterol much more than the cholesterol present in your eggs.

Other protein sources, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds could lack one or more fatty acids, so maintaining a proper balance and variety of alternative sources of protein is recommended.

Lenten season is not only a perfect time to take care of our spiritual health, this is also a perfect opportunity to focus on our physical health. With a positive attitude towards sacrifice and devotion, a healthier body and healthier relationship with the Almighty is within reach.

Source: http://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/index.php/news/6339-achieve-a-healthier-body-and-soul-this-lent

Wyeth Nutrition Promotes Healthier Living With Promil® Organic

It’s no surprise that going organic may have multiple benefits that help us lead more healthy lives. Taking the more natural approach or ‘going green’ has even been proven to help conserve the environment and improve the lives of farmers. Indeed, the organic lifestyle is steadily increasing in popularity among more and more Filipinos. With the recent launch of an organic milk brand in the market, Filipino moms now have the option to provide their children with better nutrition that will help develop their minds and bodies.

Wyeth Nutrition debuts the new Promil® Organic in a fun-filled and informative launch at Palazzo Verde in Las Pinas, gathering moms, trade partners and subject-matter experts. The latest innovation from the leading nutrition firm is made from the best of nature and expertly designed to nurture children’s gifts. 

“Promil, moms’ trusted partner for the past 30 years, recognizes the growing needs of moms to provide a healthier foundation for their child through the organic lifestyle. We developed Promil® Organic to address the growing demand for organic products. It is made from 100% organic dairy milk from certified organic European farms,” says Theresa Chong, Marketing Director, Wyeth Philippines Inc.

Promil® Organic contains docosahexaeonic and arachidonic acid (DHA & AA) and is also a source of zinc and selenium to support brain and body development. It is the only organic formula milk expertly designed with these key nutrients.

According to surveys, the global organic food and beverage market is expected to reach USD 211.44 billion by 2020. More people are realizing the benefits of organic consumption and that they can still meet their daily dietary needs.

Proud moms Andi Manzano, Cat Ledesma, and Hindy Weber Tantoco hosted the event, sharing their own inspiring stories about motherhood to encourage parents to try an organic lifestyle. “We are proud to be joined by these women who pursue a healthy lifestyle,” says Patricia Cuna, Brand Manager for Promil® Organic. “They are dedicated mothers who only want the best for their children. We hope that their support could help us to inspire more parents to try a healthier lifestyle for their family, starting with Promil® Organic.”

Visit the Promil® Organic Pop-Up store starting February 3 in Trinoma Mall, near Activity Center and know more about Promil® Organic or visit www.lazada.com.ph/promil-official-store.

Note: Breastmilk is still best for babies up to two years of age. Promil® Organic is not a breastmilk substitute. Product is intended for preschoolers 3+.

DOST-MIMAROPA SPEARHEADS THE INNOVATION FAIR IN THE 2017 MIMAROPA FESTIVAL

The Innovation Fair is one of the highlights in the 3rd MIMAROPA Festival which gives the audience a unique and immersive experience through physical exhibits and accompanying information boards of DOST's flagship programs and services. Products from assisted micro- and community-based enterprises through the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) were also available for display and purchase. Some of the products featured were Neneng's Peanut Butter, Nutrigold (a complementary food made from sesame, rice, and mungbean good for children aged 6-36 months), and NutriSnax (a healthier alternative to junkfood made from rice, corn, and mungbean).

The Science and Technology Academic Research-based Openly Operated Kiosk or STARBOOKS was also part of the exhibit. STARBOOKS is a digital library which contains thousands of digitized science and technology resources in various formats (text & video/audio) that people, especially students and teachers can access with or without internet. This tool aims to provide the public with free information access and create interest in the field of science and technology.

Concurrent to the innovation fair was the celebration of the Science Film Festival organized in collaboration with DOST Science and Education Institute (DOST-SEI). Students, parents, teachers, and other attendees of the festival coming from different island municipalities of Romblon and from other MIMAROPA provinces have enjoyed more than 25 science videos about different science trivia, latest discoveries, and environmental know-how, among others.

The Innovation fair was part of the Tourism-Trade-Agri-Innovation Fair hosted by several regional line agencies which ran for 5 days. Other activities include battle of festival street dances, a street party or Pasagudar sa Banwa, techno-investment fora, and a coronation for Ginoo at Binibini MIMAROPA Festival.

The celebration was graced by several dignitaries including Romblon Governor Dr. Eduardo C. Firmalo, Odiongan Mayor Trina Alejandra Firmalo- Fabic, Department of Tourism Regional Director Danilo B. Intong, and DOST-MIMAROPA Regional Director Dr. Ma Josefina P. Abilay.

Source: http://region4b.dost.gov.ph/dost-mimaropa-spearheads-the-innovation-fair-in-the-2017-mimaropa-festival/

The Science and Technology behind Herbs

Philip Cruz, President of Herbanext Laboratories, Inc., awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for being a research speaker during the Annual Scientific Meeting of the National Research Institute of the Philippines last March 16, 2016.

Herbanext Laboratories, Inc. was launched in 2001 by aquaculturist and agriculturist Philip S. Cruz after his quest to better his  health. Mr. Cruz had concerns with high cholesterol and high uric acid that pushed him to study about the "King of Herbs" in traditional Chinese medicine, Ganoderma lucidum.

He was successfully able to cultivate the mushroom in 1997 and began to team up with natural product researchers and medical practitioners in developing the mushroom into a nutraceutical product.

Due to inefficient processing methods of harvesting and drying, the company desperately needed an upgrade. It availed of DOST's financial assistance through the Innovation System Support Fund (ISSF) amounting to Php 1.54 million that provided for its acquisition of new technologies, consultancy services on food safety and productivity enhancement through the Manufacturing Productivity Extension (MPEX) program, and training on current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).

DOST's help resulted to reduced drying cost by at least 20%, increased production volume by 150% and a 200% increase in sales. Herbanext was also able to produce consistent quality products and expand product range.

The company currently studies 20 different medicinal herbs including Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia), Cat's whisker (Orthosiphon stamineus), Five-leaved Chaste Tree (Vitex negundo), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Green Chireta (Andrographis paniculata), Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa), Wild Tea (Ehretia microphylla), and Turmeric (Curcuma longa). Likewise, it continues to work with DOST and other research institutions to create more herbal supplements and drugs under the brand name "Daily Apple".

Source: https://news.oneexpert.gov.ph/article/science-technology-behind-herbs/

NOVUHAIR turns favor with Holiday bash promo

So you’ve got your festive outfit set and the fancy gift wrapped for your “monito” or “monita”. All that’s left undone is a party season-perfect hairstyle. 

The fresh out of the shower look can be seductive yet temporary. Blame it to tropical climate, it can spoil your appearance, besides making you feel sweaty and stale. The heat and humidity brought about by extreme weather condition, likewise, dries out the locks easily and make it more fragile. 

Adding damage to your delicate strands are the chemical contents of various products on hand. From shampoo to conditioner and hair treatment, down to styling goods to groom it to your liking, their harsh synthetic materials jeopardize the natural oil and luster of your mane.

Because you are what you eat, the fate of your crowning glory is in the plate. Your diet must have the correct balance of vitamins and minerals to supply hair with all that it needs to become shiny and strong. So don’t overindulge, especially this time of the year when gastronomic feasts are spread almost everywhere you go. Be careful on what you take in, thinking that it’s also what you feed your ‘do.

Even stress can wear off the beauty and health of the tress. And that’s exactly what you should avoid this Yuletide season. Never put pressure on yourself just to please everyone. Just take it easy, let your hair down and party all night long. 

In this time of gratitude, NOVUHAIR makes everyday “a good hair day” for its valued patrons like you with its Christmas and Year-End Promo. Get an extra NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo 200 ml. worth P1,040 for FREE if you buy a NOVUHAIR 3-in-1 pack at participating WATSONS stores nationwide (DOH-FDA CCRR Permit No.: 967 s. 2017).

Packed with 19 natural ingredients—mostly standardized herbal extracts, essential oils and co-factor nutrients—NOVUHAIR Topical Scalp Lotion does not only help prevent the hair fall malady, but also aids in stimulating hair growth. NOVUHAIR helps prevent hair loss, improve overall appearance, promote nourishment and rejuvenation. It is clinically-tested and proven safe and effective.

Opt for the best with this Christmas and Year-End promo. Whether it’s a luxury gift for your loved ones, or a self-indulgent treat for you, NOVUHAIR has the perfect gift to inspire and keep you party-ready this Holiday season, while providing you with the ultimate styling result.

For inquiries, please call 413-6570 or 0922-8830575. You may also visit www.novuhair.com or Novuhair’s Facebook page – Novuhair Official.

Why you need to wash kangkong longer

Vegetables are known as healthy food. However, not all of them are. Some vegetables may contain heavy metals and bacteria that may cause sickness when ingested.

In the study Lead, Cadmium and Bacterial Determination in Kangkong Sold in Selected Markets of Bacoor, the results show that there are fewer bacteria in kangkong (water spinach) sample that has been washed longer.

Image from the web

Vegetables are known as healthy food. However, not all of them are. Some vegetables may contain heavy metals and bacteria that may cause sickness when ingested.

In the study Lead, Cadmium and Bacterial Determination in Kangkong Sold in Selected Markets of Bacoor, the results show that there are fewer bacteria in kangkong (water spinach) sample that has been washed longer.

The study investigated the levels of lead, cadmium, and bacterial contamination in kangkong (Ipomoea aquatic) sold in selected markets in Bacoor City. The researchers randomly collected fresh kangkong. The samples were tested after being washed for one minute, three minutes, and five minutes. Bacteria were cultured and incubated for 24 hours. The findings show that there are fewer bacteria on sample that has been washed for five minutes.

"The study is very interesting bacause kangkong is consumed by most Filipinos. However, further studies and more samples are needed, so we can determine if what we are consuming is within acceptable limits," Joselito A. Carteciano, head of the information section of Department of Science and Technology-National Research Council of the Philippines, explains.

The results of these studies were exhibited in the last 17th Conference of the Science Council of Asia which was jointly organized by the DOST-NRCP, the Science Council of Asia, and the Science Council of Japan. (By Geraldine Bulaon-Ducusin, S&T Media Service).

NEVER LET LOSE A STRAND OF YOUR PATIENCE

Have you ever experienced a day wherein nothing seems to go well, that no matter how you try to choose the right path, you keep making the wrong turn? Just like having a bad hair day, no matter how many times you comb your hair, it just would not budge.

Life can be challenging at times but there will always be a way to resolve these challenges and come out victorious. Having this in mind will be easy to keep your patience and continue to move forward.

Just like losing strands of your hair due to factors beyond your control, you too can do something. 

· Eat healthy – Eating the right food can alter your mood. Having low-level of folic acid in your body can cause anxiety, hence, food such as asparagus, avocado, salmon, and almond are recommended to fight stress hormones.

· Stay calm – Listen to comforting music and reading feel-good stories can help switch you to a calm mood.

· Exercise – Exercise releases endorphins that can relieve you from stress and anxiety.

· Supplement –Taking in Vitamins such as B-complex can alter mood swings.

Don’t let your stress factors contribute to your hair loss. Letting yourself succumb to anxiety will definitely show up to your follicles and this can lead to more hair loss.

Hectic schedules and pressure from work, not to mention the pollution and filth outside easily make you feel unease and, at times, irritable. Slow down a bit, have fun and relax. There’s no better way to begin with your mane. 

Tip 1: The stroke of a comb can give you a soothing feeling while, at the same time, help unleash the natural oil of your hair.

Tip 2: Stay away from getting pigtails, hair weaves, braids and tight hair rollers, which can pull and stress your hair.

Tip 3: Avoid perming, straightening or coloring because they contain toxic chemicals that could cause damage to your locks.

Tip 4: Choose natural. Use NOVUHAIR topical solution. Apply liberal amount on to your scalp and hair. Massage it gently for -10 minutes to help permeate deeply from root to tip. NOVUHAIR is packed with 19 natural ingredients that help promote growth, nourishment and rejuvenation of your tress.

NOVUHAIR is available at Mercury Drug and other leading drugstores nationwide. For more information, please contact hotlines 4136570 and 09228830575 from Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm or visit www.novuhair.com

Senate passes bill institutionalizing 'Balik Scientist' program of DOST

The Senate on Monday, Nov. 27, approved on final reading a bill which seeks to institutionalize benefits and incentives for scientists, engineers, and innovators of Filipino descent residing overseas to encourage them to stay in the country and work for national development

Senate Bill No. 1533, also known as the Balik Scientist Act, was principally authored and sponsored by Sen. Paolo Benigno "Bam" Aquino IV. It was approved on third and final reading with 13 affirmative votes, no negative vote and no abstention.

Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III and Senators Juan Miguel Zubiri, Joel Villanueva, Richard Gordon, Grace Poe, Sherwin Gatchalian, JV Ejercito and Cynthia Villar also served as co-sponsors of the measure.

Aquino said the measure would institutionalize the Balik Scientist Program, which was first launched in 1975 "to bring back Filipino scientists, engineers, and technology entrepreneurs to work in various fields, including heath, food and agriculture, information and communications technology (ICT), and even alternative energy."

"It is about time that we institutionalized and strengthened the Balik Scientist Program so that more brilliant Filipino minds residing abroad can help our nation move forward into prosperity," he said.

Among the benefits, incentives and privileges to be made available to Balik scientists under the program are tax and duty exemptions to importation of professional equipment and materials, exemption from licensing or permitting requirements, free medical and accident insurance "covering the duration of the engagement awarded by the Department of Science and Techonology (DOST), reimbursement of expenses for baggage related to scientific projects, and even exemption from "renouncing their oath of allegiance to the country where they took the oath."

Grantees can participate in Grants-in-Aid (GIA) research and development projects of the DOST with an initial lump sum research subsidy of P500,000 for short-term program, P500,000 to P2,000,000 for the medium-term program, and P2,000,000 for the long-term program, in accordance with relevant government rules and regulations and the need of the program involved.

The benefits also include special working and non-working visas, a round-trip business class airfare from a foreign country to the Philippines "exempt from local travel tax," and DOST-subsidized visa applications.

Aquino said the bill sets different incentives and benefits for Balik scientists who would either work for the Philippines under a short-term program (minimum of 15 days to maximum of 6 months), a medium-term program (more than 6 months but not exceeding 1 year) or long- term program (1 to 3 years, subject to DOST renewal).

The bill also mandated additional benefits and rewards for "long-term" Balik scientists, such as the grant of special non-immigrant visas to the scientist, his or her spouse and their dependents as well as exemptions from requirements like immigration clearance certificate, alien employment permits, and payment of multiple entry fees.

Under the bill, long-term Balik scientists awardees would enjoy relocation benefits, such as support in securing job opportunities for the spouse of the awardee, and admission support for the children of awardees in preferred schools, relocation allowance and monthly housing or accommodation allowance, and funding for the establishment and development of a facility or laboratory.

According to Aquino, the array of benefits and incentives aim to help address the lack of scientists working in the Philippines, caused by their exodus for greener pastures abroad.

During the public hearings held by the committee on the bill, it was discovered that the Philippines has only 189 scientists per million population, far from the ideal target of 380 per million population.

Aquino said that the country "pales in comparison" with other countries. For instance, he said, South Korea and the United States have 5,300 and 3,500 scientists per million, respectively, while Malaysia has 2,000 scientists per million.

"We cannot stress enough that science and technology, engineering, and innovation can help solve some of our nation's biggest problems, like disaster preparedness, effective delivery of healthcare and other social services, hunger and nutrition, poverty and unemployment," Aquino ended.

Source: http://newsbytes.ph/2017/11/28/senate-passes-bill-institutionalizing-balik-scientist-program-of-dost/

DISCOVER WHY CHEMICAL-BASED PRODUCTS FOR HAIR LOSS MIGHT NOT WORK FOR YOU

Desperate times call for desperate measures. When you’re losing tufts of hair or seeing bald patches on your scalp, it’s but natural to feel the need to do something about it. 

Will you tell a friend or go immediately to a doctor? Will you hide the “shame” under the guise of a wig? While it’s quite hard to decide, there’s no way but people still find themselves falling in line over-the-counter (O.T.C.). And what’s on their hands? Chemical-based hair loss products. Here are some of the reasons why they impulsively buy these items:

a.) They claim to be effective.

b.) They say the healing effects are felt quickly.

c.) They are widely available.

d.) They appear to be cheaper.

e.) They claim to be safe.

Sounds tempting, though, be wary enough that once you delve into the nitty-gritty of these products available to allegedly promote hair growth, you’ll see why they may not exactly be a perfect fit. These are some of the negative possibilities when you use chemical treatments:

1. Serious side effects like tightness in the chest, difficulty in breathing, rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), and swelling of the hands and feet. These are actually some of the possible side effects of the hair loss drug Minoxidil, which is said to cease hair loss and promote hair growth.

2. Most chemical products say they can “treat” alopecia, but reading the fine print will lead you to discover that it actually just slows the progress of hair loss. Little is said as well about these chemical treatments actually promoting hair growth.

3. These products or “treatments” usually contain a variety of chemicals that may or may not cause allergic reactions. It pays to check the labels. Some chemical-based products may actually be presenting the side effects as the main effects. Let the internet help you on your personal research.

There may be safer and effective alternatives out there, but NOVUHAIR is a stand out among the rest. It has 19 natural ingredients—standardized herbal extracts, essential oils and co-factor nutrients that work in synergy and have been clinically proven to help stop the progression of hair loss, aid in stimulating hair growth, and reduce excessive hair shedding. 

NOVUHAIR is available in the Philippines at Mercury Drug and other leading drugstores nationwide, Seafood City supermarkets and other Filipino/Asian stores in the USA and online at www.novuhair.us and at BeeOrganic in Kuwait. International online orders are also possible through regaloservice.com. For more information, you may visit www.novuhair.com or contact hotlines 4136570 and 09228830575.

Don’t make yourself fall as the next victim of the trap. Be smart; choose natural.

ALL PSBank branches OPEN during the 31st ASEAN Summit Holiday

ALL PSBank branches will be open on November 13-15, 2017. This includes branches in Metro Manila and the Provinces of Bulacan and Pampanga, which are covered by Malacanan’s declaration of a special non-working holiday due to the 31st ASEAN Summit.

All our more than 600 ATMs will be online and PSBank Mobile and PSBank Online (Internet banking) facilities will also be available for your banking needs.

Thank you.

For inquiries or concerns, call our 24/7 Customer Experience Hotline at (02) 845-8888 or email us at customerexperience@psbank.com. ph. You can also reach us via the PSBank LiveChat by visiting www.psbank.com.ph.

About PSBank

PSBank is a key player in the Philippine consumer banking industry. The Bank emerged as the 2nd strongest bank in the Asian Banker's AB500 annual ranking 2016-2017 edition. PSBank is the only savings bank that has consistently cornered a spot in the list of the top 10 strongest banks in the country for six consecutive years. We have expanded our network to 250 branches and more than 600 ATMs nationwide.

PSBank Holiday Advisory

In observance of All Saints’ Day, all PSBank branches will be closed on October 31 and November 1.

Meanwhile, all our 609 ATMs will be online and PSBank Mobile and PSBank Online (Internet banking) facilities will be available for your banking needs.

Further, please take note of the following:

Payroll	All payroll crediting on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 will proceed.
Automatic Debit Agreement	For bills payments, accounts with due date on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 will proceed. For PSBank loans, payments will be value dated on its original due date and accounts will be debited on Nov. 2.  Accounts not debited on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 due to insufficient funds should be funded by Nov. 2 to avoid penalties.
Check clearing and settlement	Clearing will be suspended on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. Checks received after cut-off time on Oct. 30 will be processed on Nov. 2. No penalties will be charged for checks dated Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, intended for PSBank loan payments.
Time deposits	Maturities on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 will be processed on Nov. 2.

For inquiries or concerns, call our 24/7 Customer Experience Hotline at (02) 845-8888 or email us at customerexperience@psbank.com.ph. You can also reach us via the PSBank LiveChat by visiting www.psbank.com.ph.

Natural is still best to de-stress your tress

Striking a life balance is no easy task to do. It requires hard work and dedication which sometimes can be strenuous to achieve. Can you imagine how overtaxing it is to juggle between your career and providing for your loved ones?

Studies have shown that stress is commonly caused by interrelationships, such as having to deal with work issues and family-related complications. If left unresolved over time, it could lead to immune deficiency, which later on, might cause other parts of our body to show signs of disruption like hair loss

Many of us could attest to that. It’s like always autumnal equinox whenever we experience chronic hair fall, most especially at the prime of stress. At its peak, our white blood cells attack no less than the follicles, thus causing alopecia. What’s more, anxiety could drive your mane into a prolonged resting phase, which is called telogen effluvium.

Stress experienced by the body or beyond our coping resources could trigger hair loss symptoms, which, if not addressed properly, could result to early baldness. Worried about this? Fret no more. You can beat it simply by relaxing, eating or flexing some muscles. 

Never underestimate the power of sleep. If you feel that you are over your head in dealing with anxieties, choose to rest it off for a while and recharge.

Let’s get physical to de-stress. It helps release endorphins, or what is known as the happy hormones, that can be beneficial in relieving the tension. 

Destress by watching stage plays like the timeless story of Tony and Maria and their fateful love affair as the electrifying classic WEST SIDE STORY. Read more on http://www.novuhair.com/2017/07/novuhair-natures-answer-to-hair-loss-supports-west-side-story-musical-at-the-theatre-solaire/

Eat more fruits and veggies. Having these as a staple in your diet will bolster your immunity from disease, which in turn, knock out stress. We can all benefit from the vitamins and minerals of the healthy food we consume. 

It’s best to complement these simple regimens with a topical solution that’s safe to keep your crowning glory at its robust state. NOVUHAIR, nature's answer to hair loss, is made up of 19 natural ingredients that work in synergy to help remedy stress-related hair loss and promote healthy tress and scalp. 

The challenge in preventing these mane problems is to keep your locks healthy with proper care and let it grow naturally sans subjecting your hair to temporary relief with the use of harmful chemicals. Go natural. 

NOVUHAIR contains natural extracts, herbal oils and essences, such as lavender that is also known to relieve stress. It also has a scent that leaves a calming effect. 

NOVUHAIR is available at Mercury Drug and other leading drugstores nationwide. For more information visit www.novuhair.com, like the brand’s official Facebook Page, Novuhair Official, and follow on Twitter at @NovuhairNatural. You may also call NOVUHAIR hotlines at 4136570 and 09228830575 and order online through lazada.com.ph and regaloservice.com.

UNIQUE AGRI-IDEAS AT THE EAST-WEST SEED INNOVATION OLYMPICS 2017

The Innovation Olympics 2017 is a competition that challenges the next generation of agriculture, business and technology leaders to develop innovative solutions to real-life challenges of smallholder vegetable farmers.

Last September 29, 2017 we saw the breed of young and intellectual minds a eight groups of students presented their own technological solutions. With the theme “New Technologies to Improve the Productivity of Vegetable Farmers”, the East-West Seed Innovation Olympics encourages students to tackle real-world problems experienced by local farmers and challenge them to come up with innovative technology solutions to help improve farmer’s productivity.

As an agriculture graduate myself, I was so amazed by these students. We might be tackling the same farmer’s dilemma but several years ago, when I was a student our approach to solving the problems was so much different by how these students presented their proposed solutions. Yes! Through the use of digital technology. 

The Innovation Olympics 2017 was conceptualized by East-West Seed Companyin celebration of its 35th Year Anniversary. As part of its core values, that is, “Learning and Innovation”. The goal was to involve more people in the mission of serving smallholder farmers by harnessing new technologies to improve the productivity in vegetable farming.

Among thirteen (13) project proposals presented, eight groups made it to the final pitch which was held last 29 September 2017 at The REDREC Auditorium, University of the Philippines Los Banos, Laguna. The eight teams are:

1. TINDEROW (UPLB) – An online platform that aims to have an efficient transaction between the buyers and the farmers. The said platform is convenient for consumer and farmers as it eliminates the value-addition among the middlemen of the value chain.

2. MINERVA (UPLB) – A modular and intelligently automated aquaponic system that will serve as an alternative source of income for the farmers. By using several existing artificial intelligence, as well as microcontrollers and sensors for automation, the farmers will be able to focus on their arms while their aquaponic system is running by itself.

3. LIGHT AGRITECH (UPLB) - The introduction of "smart solar-powered irrigation system"aims to save water and improve crop production of our vegetable farmers as it automates the irrigation of a vegetable farm.

4. LAGUNA SANGRE (UPLB) - the project will utilize cropping systems technologies in crop intensification and diversification to optimize the land utilization.

5. i-AGRI VENTURES (UPLB)- it aims to provide an affordable, effective and sustainable means of increasing the total productivity of tomato farms through monitoring the soil moisture content to avoid the effect of insufficient and excessive water in tomato and developing a postharvest facility that may decrease post-harvest losses and increase market value of the crop.

6. AGRIVIZ (Asian Institute of Management) - an agricultural e-commerce platform that aims to incorporate data analytics and disseminate information to improve the productivity and profitability of Filipino vegetable farmers.

7. AGRISSIVE (UPLB) - an organically made agrochemical solution which can be a culmination of two agricultural inputs: pesticide and fertilizer.  Such product can be a convenient tool for ensuring the quality and safe consumption of the produce as well as another source of income for the community in times of need.

8. TEAM OPPA (UPLB) - the technology is a simple contraption that utilizes different sensors and data to inform the farmer about the details of his vegetable farm through SMS or text messaging.

Each of the projects presented were evaluated based on: entrepreneurial approach, business innovation, improving farmer's quality of life, and in improving the farmers' standard of living.

The board of judges were composed of technical experts from the East-West Seed Group chaired by it Vice-President Mr. Simon Jan de Hoop.  Other members were Mr. Juan Santos, Ms. Anne Isabelle Sam, Ms. Mary Ann Sayoc, Ms. Maaike Groot, and Mr. Henk Hermans.

Finally,the top three innovative ideas that emerged as the big winners are: 1.)Team Agriviz of the the Asian Institute of Management (AIM). Their e-magsasaka business model converts farmers’ mindset to being market-driven rather than production-driven; 2.)

Team i-Agri Ventures of UP Los Banos effectively defended their innovative idea of a “multi-crop dryer” that hopes to significantly increase farmers’ revenue by increasing the market value of thee crop and reducing post-harvest losses; and 3.)Team Oppa, also of UP Los Banos, came out with a technology that could increase the yield of farmers by as high as 87.5% using the very popular text messaging. Their contraption makes use of the weather, predicting rain pattern and effectively informs the farmers farm information in 30 seconds which normally takes 2-3 hours.

The 3 winning teams were provided with an initial seed money of P150,000. For 120 days, they will implement their project in their selected farming community.

The East-West Seed Company, accordingly will be hands-on in monitoring the progress of the student's projects. Given their technical expertise, they will also provide guidance and assist the top groups.

In January 2018, the team with the project that exemplified entrepreneurial innovation and made the most significant impact in their adopted farming community will be declared as the EWS Innovation Olympics Grand Champion and receive PhP 250,000 cash prize.

About East-West Seed

East-West Seed is an integrated vegetable seed company engaged in the development, production and distribution of tropical vegetable seeds. 

For many years, the company has recognized that access to quality seeds and sharing knowledge go hand in hand. East-West Seed is actively involved in farmer training and extension to support farmers with knowledge and skills in profitable vegetable production.

Today, East-West Seed is one of the 10 largest vegetable seed companies in the world, with a leading position in the most important Southeast Asian countries and rapid expansion into India, China, Africa and South America.

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Ramen Nagi Manila Opens at Solenad 2, Nuvali

I am a big fan of noodles and Japanese noodles in particular because of its unique taste and flavor which suits the picky eater me. But since I live in the province, at times just to satisfy my cravings I have to travel all the way to the Metro and endure the long queues at Japanese restos.

Well I am so glad now because recently Ramen Nagi Manila opened its 16th restaurant at Nuvali. Oh! What a relief, I no longer need to travel for hours and their new place is somewhat more convenient for me to go. I can be there anytime to satiate my appetite more often.

What I like most with Ramen Nagi is that you can customized your ramen, any which way you want. On your table there is a ready check-list with boxes and description that you can just tick. And they will have your ramen prepared the way you want it. But if you’re a first-timer and not sure about anything, just check the “Chef Recommendation” box to go for the standard way, their chef will take care of it and next time, you’ll know which taste to adjust.

They have four standard ramen – Butao King, Black King (garlic, squid ink), Red King (Spicy) and the Green King (basil,cheese).

When we went there with some friends on the soft-opening day, I go for the basic which is my usual preference, nothing more nothing less because I can’t endure spicy taste and I’m also not fond of food with so-rich flavors. I just made sure, the shoulder pork belly cut was there.

Along with your ramen, there are also available side dishes like the Pork Katsu Roll, Chicken Karaage, and the Aurora Shrimp which we ordered. YOu may also opt for additional tamago (egg) and the nori (seaweed sheet).

You need not go in hurry to consume your ramen because the delicious taste and flavor will always be there up to the very bottom of your bowl, even when the broth cooled down a bit. Because they have big serving (yah! Its already too big for me), I am just always slowly enjoying everything.

Like and follow Ramen Nagi Manila on Facebook and Instagram for more of your favorite Japanese ramen.

Their Nuvali store is located at Solenad 2 Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna (just near the newly built Ayala Mall, facing the national road going to Tagaytay).

PSBank wins back-to-back for excellence in Customer Experience

Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank), the thrift bank arm of the Metrobank Group, is the only Philippine bank recognized at the recently held Customer Experience Asia Excellence Awards for its exceptional customer experience strategy. The Awards ceremony, organized by the International Quality and Productivity Center, was held in Marina Bay Sands in Singapore last Sept. 12, 2017.

The Bank bagged third place (Bronze Award) for both the Customer Experience and Best Customer Experience Team categories for the second straight year. It also received an Honorable Mention for the Best Social Media Strategy category. 

It is the only Philippine bank that joins the big boys league composed of DBS Bank Ltd., Maybank, CIMB Niaga, Singtel, Dell, Mumbai International Airport, Ping An Group, Orchard Turn Developments Pte Ltd. , Central Provident Fund Board and Mobitel—companies that were recognized for delivering exceptional customer service in the Asian region.

“As the banking industry’s landscape continues to transform at an unprecedented pace due to technology and different customer demands, the one thing that remains constant is customers continue to value exceptional service. At PSBank, providing the best customer experience has been at the forefront our business. The Bank recognizes that understanding the customers, their needs, and providing a unique experience that puts them at the center of what we do is vital to sustain our existence,” said SVP and Marketing Group Head Emmanuel Tuazon.

“These awards are testament that we are in the right path of our journey in providing exceptional customer experience to our clients. And for that, we are simply grateful,” he added.

The Best Customer Experience Award category honors and recognizes organizations that promote an exceptional end-to-end customer experience by putting their customers at the heart of every process, people and technology. Meanwhile, the Best Customer Experience Team category recognizes the group of individuals who have provided interactive and friendly customer service through face-to-face and different touch points to create excellent customer experience for their organization. The Best Social Media Strategy category acknowledges companies that use social media as a strategic channel for excellent customer interaction, engagement, service support, marketing and sales promotion leading to a seamless end-to-end omnichannel customer experience.

About PSBank

PSBank is a key player in the Philippine consumer banking industry. The Bank emerged as the 2nd strongest bank in the Asian Banker's AB500 annual ranking 2016-2017 edition. PSBank is the only savings bank that has consistently cornered a spot in the list of the top 10 strongest banks in the country for six consecutive years. We have expanded our network to 250 branches and more than 600 ATMs nationwide.

About Customer Experience Awards

Customer Experience Awards is born out of a simple vision; to create an event which will honor the highest level of achievement in customer experience across the Asian community. Presented at our flagship Customer Experience Asia Summit, the Awards pay tribute to organizations and inspiring role models that lead the way. These Awards form the industry’s benchmark and provide an opportunity for CX professionals to gain recognition for their achievements and initiative. Judged by an Executive Panel of experts, each Award will celebrate the success of pioneers in the space of Customer Experience.

This year, the award-giving body received 148 entries across 12 awards categories.