RedDoorz gives underprivileged kids Moments To Celebrate with 100 Open Doors Campaign

RedDoorz, Southeast Asia’s largest and fastest growing hotel chain, spread the joy of Christmas early this year by giving children from marginalized communities from across the Philippines access to one-hundred rooms at various RedDoorz hotels, as part of its recently launched #MomentsToCelebrate holiday campaign.

RedDoorz worked with Virlanie Foundation, Sunshine Corner Ministry of Encouragement Inc., and United Muslim, Christian and Lumad for Peace and Development in Mindanao to give one hundred children nationwide – from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao – their first-ever travel experience in the form of special pre-Christmas treats and an overnight stay at RedDoorz hotels. Under supervised conditions from qualified volunteers and child guardians, the children were chaperoned for a series of Christmas themed events including educational learning sessions, parlor games and team-building exercises.

Caleb Uy, Donor Relations Officer of Virlanie Foundation, one of the beneficiary communities of RedDoorz’s #MomentsToCelebrate campaign, said, “This experience was a great learning opportunity. Staying in a hotel for the first time and indulging in new, enjoyable activities excited the children and gave them an early Christmas memory that they’ll never forget. This was the first time that a number of them felt that they belonged as part of a larger, caring community, encouraging them to try new things.”

RedDoorz kicked-off the program in Davao City on November 23, where RedDoorz employees surprised the staff and children of the United Muslim, Christian and Lumad For Peace and Development in Mindanao - a non-profit organization caring for Lumads, indigenous people, and informal settlers in Mindanao - with an impromptu Christmas party complete with food, games and prizes.

Virlanie Foundation kids from marginalized communities in Metro Manila were treated by RedDoorz, to an overnight stay at a RedDoorz hotel topped by a mini Christmas Party on November 24. RedDoorz also partnered with Sunshine Corner Ministry of Encouragement, Inc., a child-caring institution catering to the needs of abused, abandoned, and neglected children in Cebu City, to give the children a fun day they would never forget on November 26.

RedDoorz Country Marketing Manager Raenald De Jesus highlighted why RedDoorz wanted to give back to the underprivileged sections of the community through this initiative. He said, “These children have had a disadvantageous start in life and we wanted to give them the chance to experience a fun-filled weekend before Santa Claus sets off with his bag of goodies. RedDoorz launched its #MomentsToCelebrate campaign this holiday season to spread cheer by enabling more people to travel, and to remind more Filipinos to create quality moments with their loved ones.”

RedDoorz now has more than 200 partner hotels in over 20 cities nationwide.

Tara na sa Kawit, let's celebrate a historic Christmas!

Kawit, which derived its name from the word "kalawit"- a hook, a curved piece of metal similar to a bolo, used by farmers particularly coconut farmers; is a 1st class municipality in the province of Cavite. Kawit is one of the country's most historic places.

It is the home of the famous Aguinaldo Shrine, where independence from Spain was declared on June 12, 1898. It is also the birthplace of Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines. Apart from historical places and landmarks, Kawit also takes pride in one of the province's rare craft which is blacksmithing, that is now facing extinction because only a few from the new generation shows interest in pursuing the industry.

To showcase the beauty of Kawit and to invite more tourists to come and take a look back at some of the country's historic places and landmarks, the LGU of Kawit launched Paskong Kawiteno event which is a day-tour plus Christmas Lighting Ceremony at the Bulwagang Aguinaldo.

#PaskongKawiteño Event

It’s that time of the year where the Philippines celebrates another festive season. Despite the hustle and bustle of the busy and traffic streets and establishments, everyone busy getting their Christmas shopping done. There are a few sights and sounds in nearby areas where we can feel the true spirit of a Filipino Christmas, especially with our loved ones.

Christmas has always been a part of the Filipino tradition and culture and what better way to celebrate the holidays is by visiting some of the most historic sites in the country with your friends and loved ones.


Kawit in Cavite is one of the most sought-after historical sites in the country today and it is one that you should visit this Christmas Season.

Kawit, Cavite is home to some of the most historic sites in the Philippines. This is where the Aguinaldo Shrine is situated wherein the Philippine flag that we know of today was first waved publicly announcing our Independence by none other than the first Filipino President Emilio Aguinaldo. There’s also a lot to learn about our first president and how he has lived his life and times during the revolution era. Beyond the Shrine also are other sights to see including the “Museo ni Baldomero Aguinaldo” hailed towards the cousin of Emilio Aguinaldo and grandfather of Cesar Virata who as a prime minister in the 1980s.

Kawit also boasts rich crafts and delicacies including the Pandayan or the local blacksmithing shop. Blacksmithing is an endangered craft that needs to be promoted and preserved. The local Pandayan is still active and you can still buy handcrafted knives and bolos made the same way during the Revolutionary era. The Christmas specialty – Puto Bumbong or rice cake with shaved coconut and muscovado sugar is a staple food trip stop that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Kawit. 

Kawit celebrates the Christmas season through a spectacular display of lights at the Aguinaldo Shrine and Freedom Park. The Christmas lighting event was held last December 14, 2019, and a number of distinguished guests and celebrities joined in celebration of the event. A fireworks display and lighting of the Christmas lights at the Freedom Park was also held.

Make sure to visit Kawit Cavite this Christmas Season and enjoy the season filled with pride in our own heritage and historical sites in Kawit. The Municipality of Kawit welcomes everyone who wishes to visit Kawit during the Christmas season.

Improving Filipino Nutrition One Community at a Time

As students, many of us were taught the importance of a balanced diet to help us grow up strong and healthy. However, in reality, our country is currently seeing a rise in chronic malnutrition especially in the youth, partly due to the decrease in the quality of food consumed. That is why Mega Global, the leading manufacturer, and distributor of canned goods in the Philippines, through its flagship brand, Mega Sardines, launched ‘Mega Sustansya Everyday’ in partnership with the Nutrition Center of the Philippines.

Mega Global is dedicated to improving the lives of Filipino families and communities by offering high-quality, value-for-money products such as their tuna, canned fruits and vegetables, and the Number 1 brand of sardines in the Philippines, Mega Sardines. Sardines are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, vitamin B12, protein and calcium to help children grow and to protect their heart. Mega Sardines, sets itself apart by utilizing a meticulous 12-hour catching-to-canning process that ensures the freshness of the fish from the time that they are caught to the time that they are canned.

It is through ‘Mega Sustansya Everyday’ Program that Mega Sardines can give back to Filipino families and help pave the way to create sustainable change in their diets for a healthier and happier community. The campaign aims to teach Filipino families the importance of health and nutrition through a 40-day feeding program for kids aged 3 to 6. In order to give back to the community where Mega Sardines is situated in, the company held a seminar and Oplan Sukat on September 27, 2019 for the parents and kids of Barangay South Triangle in Quezon City to introduce the program. The program provides 2 full meals a day from Mega Sardines, with 1 meal using sardines. In order to guarantee that the kids are getting the right nutrition they need based on their daily dietary needs, each meal is well-curated by nutritionists from NCP.

Through a mid-measurement program, Mega Sardines, NCP, and the partner LGU are able to effectively measure the improvements of the children throughout the first 20 days. Significant growth was seen in each participant in terms of weight gain and eating habits as shared by their parents.

To officially conclude the Mega Sustansya Everyday program, a graduation ceremony and exclusive tour was held at Lakbay Museo together with the participating children of Brgy. South Triangle and their parents. Lakbay Museo, is an interactive museum that highlights Filipino Heritage and Culture and features a special Mega Sardines area that highlights the Filipinos love for sardines. The special area was officially launched last November 24 through an exclusive ribbon cutting with Mega Global’s brand ambassador Piolo Pascual and Mega Global President and CEO, Mr. William Tiu Lim. Aside from the tour, Mega Global awarded participants who showed significant weight gain throughout the program and were awarded as Mega Sustansya’s Best Gainers.

In a report from the Nutrition Center of the Philippines, 70% (28 of 40 children) of the participants had seen an improvement in their weight after the 40-day program. On average, the 28 children gained 3% of their initial weight through the consistent meals provided by Mega Sardines and NCP that provided the complete nutrients kids need on a daily basis.

Aside from an improvement in the height and weight of the participants, one significant change that was seen throughout the whole program was their eating habits. With the 40-day program showing positive results, there is still room for improvement and for expanding the feeding program to make it more effective in improving the nutritional status of children who are underweight.

Mega Global hopes that through the Mega Sustansya Everyday program, the families were able to see the benefits of choosing nutritious and healthy food such as sardines. This campaign also educated mothers who have the decision-making power in the home that sardines are a very good source of nutrition, which is both affordable and easily accessible.

Three Ways to Show your Appreciation

Gratitude is the simplest, most powerful way to acknowledge another person's value and humanity. Any effort - little or big - must be appreciated because from small acts of kindness, comes big transformation over time.

Appreciating people makes them feel good about what they do and that makes a difference in their lives. Appreciation urges them to go on with new vigor, strengthening their relationship with you and with other people around. Thus, an act of gratitude can build a better friendship and camaraderie.

There are a lot of ways to show how much you appreciate an act from someone or from a group of people. Let me share my top three ways of showing it.


Verbal

Saying "Thank You" is something we all learned as a small child. The simplest yet heartfelt "Thank you" is a nice gesture of appreciation. It might just be a few words, but it can make someone's day. It can inspire others to do good and to spread positivity to the community.

Saying thank you is being kind and in this technology-driven era; still, most people value kindness over money in the workplace or in the community; highlighting the importance of building a collaborative and supportive culture.

Written

Sending a letter of appreciation is a great way to reach out and make others aware of your gratitude for their help. It's a courteous gesture – and also helps increase the likelihood that people will lend you a hand again in the future.

Recently, technology has replaced the necessity of letter writing but technology cannot replace the same sentiments that letter writing can express. There's something magical, wonderful in handwritten letter. It makes lifelong friendships and serves as a placeholder for a moment in time, where you recount memories and establish new ones.

Don't hesitate to give a letter of appreciation, because a lot of people still value personalized thing, something with human touch and has a lot of sentiments that are valued over time.


Gifting or Giving a Treat

Gifting or giving someone a treat for a job well done is showing generosity and thoughtfulness. If you are capable of buying someone a gift as a token of gratitude, please do so; because this is the era where people are being practical in their lives and tangible things matter too.

Gifting nowadays comes in different forms, there are gift cards, gift checks, and vouchers and there are also digital gifts. Digital gifts are best when used via an app just like Appreci. It is one app that we can conveniently use to show gratitude to someone. It is a new app introduced in the Philippines by Digileaf. Thru the app, you can reward a job well done by giving your employee a cup of coffee via the app. He or she can claim it to the nearest coffee shop and he or she will not pay even a single peso for the treat.

You may download the app on Playstore and Appstore. The app is still in beta mode here in the Philippines, but you can check out https://appreci.io for more info and details.

Dermcare's 30th is a Journey towards more Gorg30us years

The Dermcare story started when a young girl dreamed of growing older gracefully, with ageless beauty that glowed from within.

Since Dermcare was founded in 1980, it has been making milestones year by year. From expansions to growing partnerships and stepping-up the game in marketing and the digital world, Dermcare did it all with flying colors.

2019 kicks off their gorgeous journey in the beauty and wellness industry as they celebrate their 30th founding anniversary.

When asked what made her go into the beauty, health, and wellness industry, President and CEO of the Dermcare Group Ms. Zenaida E. Palisoc, or Madam Zeny as she is fondly called, laughingly recalled that she had always wanted to look beautiful and at her best. Even as a teenager, she was determined to find products and treatments that would help her with her dark, problematic skin. 

As the years went by, she tried almost every local and imported beauty product that promised her a fairer complexion and would help keep her skin clean, supple, and fresh. Finding most of those products unsatisfactory and lacking, she finally realized it made more sense to develop those products herself because she knew exactly what she and most women wanted.

That was just the beginning, and the rest was history.

Fast forward to 2019, Dermcare successfully celebrated its 30th anniversary held last December 9, 2019, at The Manila Hotel. It was a grand and festive event well-attended by celebrities, well-known people in the industry and in politics, media people and personalities and the employees and the people behind the company's success for three decades.

The formal gathering featured a glamorous entrance of whites and crystals in line with the launching of the Crystal AO+, the newest addition to the growing line of products of Dermcare. The highlight of the celebration was a fashion show directed by the renowned Fashion Director Raymond Villanueva. Toni Galang, a well renowned international Fashion Designer and Couturier, will be with us on the most gorgeous fashion show of Dermcare.

The celebration also became a venue to appreciate all the hard work of the people and employees of Dermcare. There were loyalty awards and special citation awards given to deserving persons.

Dermcare's most gorgeous night ended past midnight, but everyone went home with beautiful smiles on their faces.

12 Gifts of Christmas for Each Discerning Individual

Filipinos are known to be grateful for every blessing received, that may be the reason why we also love to reciprocate the generosity especially during the holidays. Through the years, scouting for the appropriate gifts during the holiday season is such a hard but lovely task. Coming up with the best gift to give to that special person shall truly be appreciated.

Here are some gift ideas that will surely be a hit:

Novuhair– For those who need extra pampering on their crowning glory

Also known as Nature’s answer to hair loss, Novuhair is formulated with 19 natural ingredients – mostly herbal, essential oils and co-factor nutrients. 

This topical scalp lotion does not only help prevent the hair shedding malady but also aids in stimulating growth of the “crowning glory.” It helps enhance improve overall appearance, maintain moisture, and promote nourishment and rejuvenation.

In the celebration of their 10thyear in the industry, the brand and their long-time partner Mercury Drug is offering a whopping 64% savings on their promo pack Novuhair Topical Scalp Lotion 200ml with free 120ml bottle.

For more info on the product, you may check their FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/NovuhairOfficial/

Quezon Buffet GCs– For the foodie at heart

Quezon buffet is a run-for-the-bucks, art-deco themed buffet place located at Fisher Mall in Quezon ave. With their motto, quality & affordability, you will find the freshest ingredients used in all of their dishes.

This season, they have introduced their holiday menu that would rival your old family tradition with dishes such as Pork Loin Piña Ham, Chicken Galantina Meatloaf and Pork Morcon. Craving for sweets is no problem with their Puto Bumbong Halaya, Ube-Halaya Cheese Pandesal, Seet Potato casserole with Marshmallow and their Trio tower consisting of Crinkles Velvet, Choco Crinkles & Peppermint Cupcakes.

Quezon Buffet GCs in denomination of Php500 are available for gifting. Quezon Buffet FB page: https://www.facebook.com/quezonbuffetrestaurant/

Hearty Bread– For the health buff

With the demand for healthier food, Hearty Bread brings you affordable Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free breads that will help you stay healthy this season. They also have Gluten-Free, Sugar-free Choco-Chip monster cookies that are certified- sinless treat.

Available in most Rustans Marketplace. Check out their Facebook page for more info: https://www.facebook.com/heartybreadph/

Healthy Mama’s Kitchen Ham– For the healthy foodie

Sister-company of Hearty Bread, Healthy Mama’s Ham will give you a whole new level of ham that are Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, Nitrate-Free hence you can rest assured that these hams are devoid of preservatives unlike most of the ones available in the market.

For availability, check out their FB page: https://www.facebook.com/HealthyMamasKitchen/

The Spa Wellness Cards– For Wellness enthusiasts

The premier wellness establishment – The spa introduces their new wellness cards which are perfect gives to those who needs extra pampering.

The Spa Wellness Cards give you 10 one-hour Classic Massages at a discount! Deluxe @ 7,999, Executive @9,999, Junior Suite @ 11,999 and Premier Suite @ 12,999.

For more details, visit their FB page: https://www.facebook.com/thespawellness/

The Spa Wellness Essential oil blends– For those into aromatherapy

The Spa Wellness is proud to offer their newest line of essential oils that are therapeutic-grade and designed to complement your spa experience.

Variants: Energy – helps you stay awake, focused and restores your energy. Balance – Supports your respiratory health and allows you to breathe easy. Tranquility – helps you fight stress and calms your body and mind.

Available in all The Spa Wellness branches starting December 8, 2019.

Acer PH– For the Gadget conscious

Double the joy this Christmas season with #RealHolidays powered by #Acerxrealme! Enjoy awesome promos where your favorite Acer laptops are paired with amazing mobile phones from realme.

Get yours now at www.acer.com.ph

Promo valid until December 31, 2019 only.

Fujidenzo– For the Home Maker

A certified homemaker can never run out of appliances to use, hence, giving them something that they can use in taking care of their family can be very useful.

Fujidenzo Appliances has a wide range of items that are fitted to your every budget. Visit their Fb page: https://www.facebook.com/FujidenzoAppliances/

Aficionado– For the scent-conscious

Aficionado manufactures and distributes perfume, scented personal care and home care products which emphasizes on affordability and quality.

This holiday, Aficionado is bringing you back to the year 1999 when they first sold to the public with Pamaskong Handog ng Aficionado. Their 85ml perfume bottle at only P199.90. Promo runs from Dec. 10 to 31, 2019

For product information and store lists, visit their FB page: https://www.facebook.com/aficionadoPH/

Booze Online– For all your alcohol needs this season

Shop for the hard to find booze as well as the popular ones at this online store. Guaranteed to offer the most competitive price elsewhere.

They have liquors that matches all your discriminating tastes, whether wines from all-over the world or Hard Liquors for the tough ones as well as local and imported beers. Name it and they have it.

Shop on this site: https://www.boozeshop.ph/

Bewell-C– Gift of Healthy immune system

Give your loved ones a healthy dose of Vitamin C supplement, make sure you are using its safest form. Bewell-C Sodium Ascorbate, your non-acidic Vitamin C. #MagBewellCna

Bewell-C Sodium Ascorbate is available in Mercury Drug and other leading drugstores nationwide. For more health guide and updates, visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/bewellcsodiumascorbate/

Be Organic Bath & Body

Their products are cruelty-free and made from plant-based ingredients and are absolutely free from harsh synthetics like SULFATES, PARABENS, ARTIFICIAL FRAGRANCE, DEA that cause or aggravate acne, pimples, skin allergies, eczema, and psoriasis flare-ups. Using ESSENTIAL OILS as scent of our products (from plants) which makes them safe for pregnant and breastfeeding moms.

Available at https://shopee.ph/beorganic_bathandbodyand https://s.lazada.com.ph/s.ZXuU

In the spirit of gift-giving, whichever you choose for as long as it comes from the heart - it shall be the best gift you can ever give. Happy Holidays 2019!

Three Reasons why you should use Herbal Hair Color

Many of us would love to don a beautiful, shiny colored hair; however, it is important that we are cautious of the hair dyes that we are applying to our tresses.

Conventional hair colors contain hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, both are chemical agents that aid in hair coloring process. Hydrogen peroxide helps pigments in our hair to be broken down, removing its natural color. Meanwhile, ammonia changes hair’s PH level. It opens the cuticle of the hair, allowing the color to penetrate and absorbed. This process causes hair to change its color. 

 
Through time, our scientists and hair experts have discovered the cons of using these two chemicals to our tresses. Repeated use of ammonia-based hair dyes can permanently damage our hair cuticles. This causes our strands to lose moisture, making them dry and brittle. Once the hair is damaged, it is irreversible. Most ammonia-based hair colors do not have necessary ingredients that protectthe strands.

With the rise of herbal hair dyes, we can still achieve the hair color we desire to have. What makes herbal-based hair dye beneficial to use? Here are the reasons why you should consider using herbal hair dye now.

1. Damage no more

This is one of the best benefits of using herbal hair colors. It does not harm your hair because it does not contain chemical-harming agents that impair the health of your strands. Likewise, it retains the structure of your hair as no structural bonds are broken.

2. Safer to use

Since herbal hair colorant does not contain harmful ingredients, you are assured that it is safe to use. You are also free from the unwantedsting that causes your skin or eyes to irritate or to inhale a toxic scent.

3. Retains hair’s health

Herbal hair colors do not only provide vivid and rich color to your hair, but they also keep your strands soft, shiny, and strong.

Novelina Cosmetics recognizes the need to keep your colored hair beautiful and healthy. That is why it introduces its line of Herbal Hair Colorants that are safer to use yet more friendly on the budget. Novelina brings you the following herbal hair colorants:


Novelina Zeelke Herbal Hair Color Powder– a do-it-yourself, Japanese formulated herbal hair color that keeps your hair color vibrant and healthy. It contains Fleece Flower (Fo-Ti) extractthat helps stop premature graying. It also restores hair’s natural color. It also has the following herbal extracts: Malunggay extractthat enables the hair follicles to induce hair growth stronger and healthier; Aloe Vera extractis an agent that conditions the hair; and, Panax Ginseng Root is ahair growth stimulant that helps in the prevention of hair loss. Novelina Zeelke Herbal Hair Color Powderis free from harsh chemicals like ammonia and hydrogen peroxide that contribute to premature graying, as well as brittle and dry hair. Available in three colors – Natural Black, Natural Brown, Chestnut Brown and Crimson Red. Novelina Zeelke Herbal Hair Color Powderis reasonably priced at P29.00 for a 6-gram sachet packaging.

Novelina Zeelke Herbal Cream Hair Color– a Japanese formulation and do-it-yourself permanent line of hair color that providea wider range of hair colors as it uses quality ingredients to achieve your desired hair color. Also enhance with herbal extracts, it doesn’t sting and doesn’t have a harshodor. Its gentle formulation prevents hair from drying while its color remains vibrant for a long time. Available in various hair colors, which include Natural Black, Natural Brown, Chestnut Brown, Golden Brown and Burgundy. For only P299.00, Novelina Zeelke Cream Hair Color comes with a professional hair color kit, which includes: 60g professional hair color, 2 oz developer, Novelina Shampoo and Conditioner, hairbrushand gloves.

Novelina Cosmetics realizes that being stylish does not mean you have to compromise the health of your hair. For more information about these novel products, visit Novelina’sFacebook page or its website: www.novelinacosmetics.com.

How a Selfie and P100.00 can give you a Prosperous and Brighter 2020?

Sun Life Asset Management Company, Inc. is the mutual arm of Sun Life Canada (Philippines), Inc. It is one of the leading asset management companies in the country with over 140,000 investors and over php79 Billion in Assets Under Management as of October 31, 2019.

Before 2019 ends, SLAMCI held its Market Outlook conference to give Filipinos a better perspective about the country's current economy and investment ideas in 2020.

With strong confidence and positivity, SLAMCI believes that the Philippines is poised to get better and grow faster in the coming year, 2020.

There will be significant improvements in the coming year and the challenges along the way should be tolerable and may be balanced by the positive developments, according to Sun Life Chief Investments Officer Michael Enriquez.

With the administration having only 2 years left in its mandate, SLAMCI expects the government to go full force on capital outlays, thus expecting higher gross domestic product (GDP). If the government will follow the lessons it has learned from the budget delay of 2019, there will be a recovery on consumer spending and stronger government spending.

With all the possibilities having presented, how can Filipinos benefit from it?

SLAMCI encourages more Pinoys to grab this opportunity by investing especially now that it has become easier, more convenient and more affordable because all you need is just a SELFIE and a 100-peso to start the journey.

To enhance the investor's experience, they launched 2 online portals. First is the SLAMCI online which is a purely digital process of investing wherein you only need Php100 and a selfie to start investing in a peso-denominated fund.

Second is the Sunrise portal, SLAMCI's workplace saving plan which was specially designed for company representatives to efficiently administer the program and for members or the employees to conveniently view and manage the contributions to their investment which are done thru salary deduction.

I am sure most of my readers here would be much interested with investing for as low as P100 and here's how to start :

Go to sunlifefunds.com and choose what kind of funds you want to start. For the first time and conservative investors who are just curious, I would like to suggest that you start with Sun Life Prosperity Funds because it offers short-term investment.

Let's say you've chosen and clicked on Sun Life Prosperity Funds, you will see more information about the benefits, then you have to choose the one that fits you. 

Of course, for starters; it is best to choose the Sun Life Prosperity Peso Funds and choose Money Market Fund which offers investing for as low as Php100.00. 

You will then be redirected to another page which shows more information about the option you've chosen. Just click BUY NOW on the right side to proceed. 

On the Esales site, just fill out all the necessary information and continue till checkout. Remember to have your TIN, SSS, selfie with your valid ID prepared for a hassle-free transaction.

Bank payments available are via BDO, BPI, Landbank, Metrobank and Security Bank.

This 2019, a lot of digital enahancements has been initiated by SLAMCI and it will continue leveraging on the digital - such as convenient payment options, strategic partnerships and online channels - coming 2020 as they gear up towards their 20th year. 

As we wait for more enhancements, developments and brighter offerings from SLAMCI, let us start investing our "crispy" hundred peso from the Ang Paos this season of giving. 

Philippines receives SPIA Asia 2019 Excellence Award for hosting SEA Games 2019

Raging typhoon Tisoy did not stop SPIA ASIA from handing out honors to deserving nations, groups, brands, personalities, and organizations that made significant impact and contributions in sports. SPIA Asia – Asia’s Sports Industry Awards & Conference, held its fifth edition at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Bonifacio Global City Philippines on December 2 and 3, 2019. After two days of panels, case studies, and interviews on the business of sports, the business of football in Asia, sports and new technology, sports and tourism, and integrity and inclusion, the SPIA Asia Awards were also handed out, recognizing and celebrating sporting excellence of the industry.

For hosting the 30th edition of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) was awarded Excellence Award by SPIA.

Photo on the right - delegates from other countries waiting for the opening ceremony to start.

Football legend Ronaldo Nazario de Lima, more popularly known simply as Ronaldo, was awarded the Sport and Beyond Award, an honor celebrating both his career as a legendary footballer as well as his accomplishments beyond the football pitch. The three-time FIFA Footballer of the Year, two-time winner of the Ballon d’Or, and three-time winner of the FIFA World Cup was a goal-scoring machine for Brazil on the international stage and for club teams like FC Barcelona, Inter Milan, Real Madrid CF, A.C. Milan, and Corinthians. Following his retirement from competition, “El Fenomeno” became the majority owner of Real Valladolid in 2018 and hopes to bring the club to new heights.

The Best Asian Sports Team honor was handed to the Japanese Rugby Team who shocked the world at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, where they served as hosts. After winning the Pacific Nations Cup earlier in the year, Japan was grouped with Russia, Ireland, Samoa, and Scotland. The Brave Blossoms’ 28-21 win over Scotland made them the first Asian team to top their group at the Rugby World Cup and the first Asian team to make it to the knockout stage.

Tennis superstar Naomi Osaka was named Best Asian Sportswoman of the Year. After being named WTA Newcomer of the Year in 2016, Osaka famously defeated Serena Williams in the final of the 2018 US Open to become the first Japanese Grand Slam singles champion. She followed that up by defeating Petra Kvitova to win the 2019 Australian Open and became the first Asian player to be ranked first in the world in singles. Only 22-years-old, many believe that the best is yet to come for Osaka.

As if he doesn’t have enough accolades already, the only eight-division boxing champion in history, Sen. Manny Pacquiao, was awarded the Best Asian Sportsman of the Year. 

Pacquiao started the year by retaining the WBA (Regular) welterweight title via a 12-round unanimous decision over Adrien Broner at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Seven months later at the same venue, “the Pac-Man” won the WBA (Super) welterweight championship via a 12-round split decision over Keith Thurman. 

Other notable winners at the SPIA Awards included The Chongqing Major as Best eSports Event of the Year in Asia, Shopee and Cristiano Ronaldo from SportQuake as Best Brand Activation of the Year, Atrium Sports – Kilsyth Basketball Connected Stadium from Atrium Sports with the Best Use of Technology in Sports, the Rugby World Cup in Japan from World Rugby/Rugby World Cup Limited won both Best International Sporting Event of the Year and Best Sports Digital Platform of the Year, while the WTA Finals 2018 from Lagardere Sports of Singapore was named Best Integrated Marketing Campaign of the Year.

The Best Mass Participation Event in the Philippines was given to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority for the National Milo Marathon while Honda Philippines won Best Sponsorship of Sport, Team, Individual, Venue, or Event in the Philippines for the Honda Philippines Nationwide Tour. Meanwhile, the Football 7s Youth Program was awarded Best Youth Sports Development Program in the Philippines.

Football playing brothers Phil and James Younghusband were also recognized during the awards gala as Phil, who recently retired from his international football career, had a statue of himself auctioned off for charity. Another Philippine sports personality that was recognized was gymnast Carlos Yulo who won gold at the SEA Games for the All-Around and Floor Exercise as well as silvers in the Pommel Horse and Still Rings.

Aside from Ronaldo, also present at the two-day conference and awards night was track and field icon Dr. Edwin Moses, chairman of the education committee of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The American is a sporting legend in the 400m hurdles, having won gold medals at both the 1976 Montreal Olympics and the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Yet on top of his many accolades, Moses has arguably accomplished even more after his track and field career as he has served as chairman of the Laureus World Sports Academy in 2000 which seeks to promote and increase participation in sport at every level, and also to promote the use of sport as a tool for social change around the world. Moses joined Ronaldo onstage for the “Icon 2 Icon” talk as they discussed their lives both during and after their athletic careers ended.

The SPIA Asia conference saw over 600 delegates and over 60 speakers, with over 450 submissions in 25 categories nominated for awards.

For more information about the conference program, visit www.spiaasia.com.

Garment, leather, textile industries take centerstage at expo

The Philippines’ garment, leather, and textile industries will take centerstage at the “Philippine Garment, Leather Industries and Textile Expo” set on December 5-8, at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

Now in its second year, the Expo will gather manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, and stakeholders to help boost the country’s potential in producing garments, leather goods, and textiles for export.

With exports amounting to 1.02 billion USD in 2017, the textile, garments, and other wearable industries, the Philippine economy is set to grow in these areas with continued investment.

Endorsed by the Philippine Board of Investment (BOI) and the Confederation of Wearables Exporters of the Philippines (CONWEP), a variety of garment machinery and parts, textile machinery, non-woven machinery, dye machinery and chemicals, industry 4.0/factory automation, quality control, design and computer-aided tools and software, and many more will be showcased at the event.

Last year, the Philippine Garment Industry Expo 2018 was held with the Philippine Textile & Fabric Expo and brought over 81 exhibitors from nine countries, namely China, Hong Kong, India, Korea, Pakistan, Singapore, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Philippines; and 4,800 trade visitors.

Among the local companies participating in this year’s event are Armena Embroideries, D & A Edge Polymer Phils. Inc., Golden Island Fashion Accessories, Kelin Graphics System Corp., Printway Marketing and Services, Shanghai Global Corp., and Testex Philippines Representative Office.


An industry forum will also coincide with the opening on Dec. 5, at the nearby Conrad Manila Hotel, Forbes Ballroom 1. Dr. Ceferino S. Rodolfo, Vice-Chairman and Managing head of BOI and Undersecretary of the Department of Trade and Industry will deliver the event’s keynote address. From De La Salle University, Dr. Myrna Austria and Dr. Mitzie Irene P. Conchada, full professor and associate dean respectively, will present the “Philippine Garments and Textiles Industry Roadmap,” showcasing the proposed goals and strategies the industry has planned ten years down the line toward achieving their vision.

Environmental issues will play a big part as well. There will be an informative talk on sustainability in the garments and textiles industry led by Celia Elumba, Director IV of the DOST – Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI), and a detailed talk on sustainable and inclusive business models in the Philippines by Chief Executive Officer of Ananas-Anam Philippines Chuck Lazaro and Founder and Creator of Maison Metisse Adrienne Charuel.

Managing Director Dr. Andrew Kay of CP Exhibition LTD will speak about the success story of Vietnam’s garments & textile industry. The Expo is organized by CP Exhibition LTD, a company that was established in Hong Kong in 1976 and has representative offices in Canada, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Singapore, Taiwan, UK, USA and Vietnam. CP Exhibition has organized trade exhibitions in different areas such as Textile/Garment/Fabric, Aviation, Transport, Railway/Subway, Oil/Gas, Coal, Electricity, and others.

Co-organized by Philippine Exhibition and Trade Corporation (PETCO), the Philippine Garment, Leather Industries and Textile Expo is supported by Textile Producers Association of the Philippines (TEXPAP), LGU Marikina / Marikina Shoe Industry Development Office (MASIDO), Garment Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (GARMAP), DOST-PTRI, and Department of Science and Technology – National Capital Region (DOST-NCR); with radio partner 105.1 Crossover FM.

Interested exhibitors or visitors may contact +63 2 8329304 / 8329305 or email Ms. Nina Guillergan at events@petcogroup.comor Ms. Joy M. Fojas at joy.fojas@petcogroup.com for details.

Garments, textile industry expo pushes sustainable fashion

Use what you produce; produce what you use.

This is the principle behind the efforts of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI) to pursue sustainability in local fashion practices.

“Sustainability is producing our own textiles because it’s higher in the value chain. Using our own raw materials, having our own local skills and talents, and using our technology and processing here—it’s an industry that can enable more people to come to the workforce,” shares PTRI director Celia Elumba.

To enliven the country’s garments and textile industries, the PTRI has already developed a number of technologies to assist local businesses in the production and processing of locally made textiles and fabrics. With raw materials and technologies now readily available in the Philippines, it is apparent that the Philippines’ garment sector is ripe for revitalization.

“We have the technology. Now we’re looking for adaptors of it,” says Elumba. “We want to encourage enterprises, businesses, and investors to go and take a second look at textile production because we have more than a hundred million Filipinos now to market to.”

One example of a sustainable model is the Regional Yarn Production and Innovation Center (RYPIC) in Miag-ao, Iloilo, where PTRI collaborated with the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) to create a microscale facility that produces blended yarns that assists small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The project, which is supported by the local government of Iloilo, uses natural materials available in Iloilo—positively impacting the environment by not leaving microfibers in the water when washed. In keeping with PTRI advocacy TELA (Textiles Empowering Lives Anew) Pilipinas, they have also partnered with Great Women Philippines to create and market products commercially and further promote locally made quality textiles.

With the country’s abundance of raw materials, the PTRI looks forward to more opportunities of putting up RYPICs in other locations, where all the resources are localized and all the benefits will be enjoyed by those directly involved and the local population—creating an ecosystem that can be sustained for future generations.

“There’s no better time to invest than today. We believe in the technology and its ability to change and moderate lives and improve our conditions,” Elumba says of her hope for the local garments and textile industry. “We’d love to have the collaboration and cooperation of the private sector because their creativity will surely help us find ways to improve what we have.”

Celia Elumba will speak about “Sustainability in the Garments and Textile Industry” at the 2nd Philippine Garment, Leather Industries, and Textile Expo’s Industry Forum on December 5 at the Forbes Ballroom 1 of the Conrad Hotel Manila. The expo will run from December 5 to 8, at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City. It will feature its own Philippine Pavilion, where exhibits from local industry associations, including PTRI, will be showcased.

4 Reasons why Goats Milk is the best Choice for your Kid

They say that "If she's not your MOM, it's not your milk." But this is only true for babies and kids less than 3 years of age. Let's accept the fact that not all Moms have enough milk to support their babies up to 3 years the least, which is the required age by professionals before giving babies or kids formula milk.

Although I was able to exclusively breastfed 2 out of my three kids for more than 4 years, I am aware that not all Moms are like me and that some of them need help from formula milk for their babies and kids to grow properly.

Growing up kids, 3 years old and up need milk as a source of calcium and protein. These essential nutrients are important for their growing bones and teeth. Milk also gives fat for energy and provides Vitamins such as Vitamin A and B which are needed by our eyes, skin and the immune system to name a few.

Cow's milk has long been touted as the go-to source for calcium and has been the main source of powdered or formula milk, but a lot of studies nowadays had proven that there is something better or maybe the best, which is goat's milk.

Why GOAT's MILK?

During the Mom and Meeh event - the launching of Dairy Goat - Goat Milk from New Zealand - I have learned a lot from the presentation that was facilitated by Dr. . It was a lengthy discussion about the advantages of goats milk versus cow's milk, which opened my eyes and mind to a lot of realizations.





1. Goat’s Milk is closer to human milk than cow’s milk

Similar to humans and unlike cows, goat’s milk is made through the Apocrine Secretion Process, where a portion of cells in the mammary glands are pinched off and discharged together with the milk. This process results in naturally occurring Bioactive Components similar to those found in human milk; this includes Nucleotides, Polyamines, and Taurine, which are important for a child’s growth and development. On the other hand, the Merocrine Secretion Process in cows does not yield these naturally occurring ingredients.

2. Goat’s milk is a great source of nutrients

The richness of milk is measured by both its taste and the nourishment it offers. Goat’s milk contains a wealth of essential nutrients. Every yummy drop contains a healthy dose of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals which your children need. In fact, goat’s milk provides 33% of your recommended daily intake of calcium. It’s also rich in magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, zinc, and selenium.

3. Goat’s Milk is easier to digest

Milk we ingest forms curd in our stomach, and the curd formed by Goat’s milk is softer than regular cow’s milk, which greatly assists digestion.

Furthermore, Goat’s milk has higher digestibility and better nutrient absorption, with goat milk fat containing more medium-chain triglycerides, which are rapidly absorbed. Its ability to enhance gut barrier function may even help you keep your gut healthy.

4. Goat’s Milk has a lower allergenic burden than cow’s milk

Did you know that cow’s milk is the most common food allergy among young children? An estimated 2.5 percent of all children under three years old are allergic to cow’s milk, a problem that may continue into adulthood. Cow’s milk’s 20 different allergens may cause reactions such as inflammation and hives.

Fortunately, goat’s milk contains significantly less alpha S1 casein and beta-lactoglobulin than cow’s milk, thus offering a healthy protein alternative.

These facts are backed up by studies conducted by professionals, including pediatricians who specialize in the field.


Also, being a brand that came from New Zeland - the country known for having the largest agricultural industry - we can be sure of the quality of DG Goat Milk Beverage for Kids, the country's first and only premium powdered goat's milk for children.







Actually, I don't have any problem giving my kids any type of milk since they have no allergies on food, they don't have problems with digestion and they are not picky when it comes to milk taste. When they all turned 3 years old, they were all drinking full cream milk which is a lot cheaper than formula milk that is recommended for their age. But for parents who would always want to give the best for their children, price is the last consideration. Our top priority is nutrition and the safety of the food that our kids are going to intake.

I have always believed that we are what we eat, which is why I am very careful of what I give my family especially nowadays that a lot of products can be deceiving if we are not going to be keen and inspect thoroughly what they are all about.

Licking ice cream made of DG, tastes milky good

Having discovered Dairy Goat, I know I have to switch as I want my kids to be as healthy as possible because the diseases that are hounding humans nowadays are really strong and troublesome. Giving my kids the right milk with the right nutrients and came from a better source, can somehow give me an assurance that I am able to give my kids the right amount of nutrition they need in their daily living, and it also makes milk time one less of a worry to a busy Mom like me.