Experts say curbing the spread of seasonal flu virus starts at home.

With this year’s flu season being accompanied by slowly rising COVID-19 cases, experts remind us that staving off the flu virus typically begins with common practices that families can do at home.

“It’s important to ensure that our personal spaces are free of transmissible diseases like the flu. Contrary to popular belief, the flu is caused by a virus different from the common cold so symptoms tend to last longer and are more severe,” says Dr. Gyneth Bibera, Country Medical Director of GSK Philippines. “Patients will experience the typical runny nose, coughing, headaches, fevers, and fatigue, but the severity can often lead to the inability to do daily tasks, the need for doctor consultations, or even hospitalizations,” she adds.

Here are five things you can do to prevent flu:

Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

Influenza viruses can survive outside the body and generally stay active longer on steel, plastic, and harder surfaces than on fabric and softer materials. They have been known to survive for 24-48 hrs on hard non-porous surfaces, and 8-12 hrs on cloth, paper, and tissues. Regularly disinfecting these surfaces with a household cleaner containing soap or detergent will help stop the spread of the virus, more so if someone is or has been recently infected at home. Focus on areas that are frequently touched, such as door handles, light switches, faucets, stair rails, or tables.

Toss your trash everyday.

Many communities have weekly or biweekly garbage collections, but it’s worth making a point to dispose of trash everyday. Keep a wastebasket outside of the home, in a garage, or by the front gate. This prevents contaminated items and germs that cause respiratory illness, like flu from lingering inside the home.

Launder your linens regularly.

Sheets, blankets, or pillowcases that are used daily may become infected by viruses. This is especially true if an infected member of the household recently used the linens. Changing and washing sheets on a weekly basis with hot water, can kill flu viruses that are present. This is because flu viruses are killed by heat above 75° C.

Practice good hygiene.

Personal hygiene is one of the best ways to prevent the flu. This includes washing hands frequently, particularly after coughing or sneezing, after using the bathroom, before and after handling food, or after coming in contact with someone sick. It also includes not sharing personal items such as pillows, towels, utensils, and the like. Of course, covering the mouth when coughing, taking regular showers, and other basic hygiene practices are also necessary.

Get your flu vaccines.

The World Health Organization recommends that flu shots be administered once every year, which is applicable for both adults and even children when they reach six months old. Getting annual flu vaccines significantly reduces the risk of contracting the flu virus.

Alongside practicing proper measures and being mindful of the environment to protect one’s home from the virus, having updated flu vaccines is the best way to keep oneself safe. “Although flu cases really tend to rise at this time of the year, each individual and communal effort within the household will do a lot to protect the health of the wider community and keep overall flu numbers down,” says Dr. Bibera. “We encourage all Filipinos to talk to their doctors and get their jabs done because it’s us and our own efforts that will help keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.”

Parents’ flu-proof guide to sending their kids back to face-to-face classes.

The resumption of face-to-face classes coinciding with flu season heightens the need for parents to stay on track of their children’s health and wellbeing. Increased exposure means that there must also be increased vigilance in the observance of public health and safety protocols.

"Parents are naturally on guard now that their kids are getting more face time. We’re dealing with dangerous illnesses such as COVID-19, Dengue, and Monkeypox, which happen to have flu-like symptoms," says Dr. Gyneth Lourdes Bibera, country medical director of GSK Philippines. “It’s important to remember that despite their similarities, these are all separate illnesses, caused by different viruses and having different treatments. This is why it is important to strengthen our immunity through proper nutrition, regular exercise, and eliminating the chances of catching communicable diseases by updating your vaccinations."

To prevent contracting the flu or any of the transmissible diseases, here are 3 important health guidelines to remember:

Be Flutected. GSK hosted a press briefing on flu-awareness 

to help parents keep children protected for face-to-face classes. 

The discussion was led by GSK Philippines' Country Medical Director, 

Dr. Gyneth Lourdes Bibera, and actress and lifestyle influencer, Dimples Romana.

1. Keep your child’s vaccines up to date.

Experts advise that vaccination is the best way to stay protected from the flu. Getting an annual flu shot will reduce the risk of illness, severity, and hospitalization among children while lowering their chances of developing any complications. Flu vaccinations can be administered to children starting at six months old. Depending on the child's age and the doctor's recommendation, immunizations may be given in one or two doses.

Annual vaccinations are also necessary because the flu virus constantly mutates. This means that new strains may be formed from year to year, necessitating new vaccines. When getting the flu vaccine around the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine, follow the national guidelines prescribed by the Department of Health (DOH), which is to take the flu vaccine 14 days before or after the COVID-19 vaccine.

2. Isolate at the onset of symptoms.

If your children start showing or complaining about any signs of flu or illness, they should stay home to avoid potentially infecting others or having their symptoms worsen. At the same time, check with their schools as to what the standard protocol is when a student is ill so that they don’t miss out on important activities for any of their classes.

3. Start healthy habits at home.

Following the right health and safety measures should always start at home, and parents must ensure that children learn these early on. Practicing good hygiene plays a huge role in the prevention of diseases like the flu. Instill in your children the practices of covering their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, washing their hands with soap and water, not touching their eyes, noses, and mouths, wearing masks, keeping a safe distance from other students or teachers, and disinfecting their personal spaces.

Besides this, other good habits they may also follow include getting enough sleep, being physically active, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating nutritious food. By setting these practices as the standard at home, children will be more likely to follow them when they go out for school or other activities.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic coinciding with flu season might raise alarm bells for parents who are now sending their kids to school but making sure to follow the proper ways to prevent sickness will go a long way in staying healthy.

"The health protocols we've been following the past two years must be standard practice by now," reminds Dr. Bibera. "Beyond that, we've seen the positive effects of vaccinations on disease severity. We implore all parents to get the annual flu vaccine for themselves and their kids, as this is still the best way to protect against the flu," she ends.

Solving family problems in the most excellent way.

The Covid-19 pandemic did not spare anyone, in the Philippines or anywhere else in the world. Businesses big or small, tourist destinations, even the small sari-sari store, did not escape the wrath of the deadly virus.

Moreso families like the Ekselente family.

The Ekselente family is your typical Filipino brood that struggled mightily during the pandemic. They own a resort, which is both their family home and prime source of income. Since they have no visitors because of the lockdowns and community quarantines, the family business is losing money for lack of income. Worse, the family is considering selling it to be able to survive.

Theirs was an archetypal dilemma that would test their values, and how they would be able to keep the family together in such stressful times was told through the eyes of the family’s helper or “Kasambahay,” Ofelia, who remained loyal and true to the Ekselente family. She shared in their difficulties and heartaches, and even went out of her way to help the family that had been good to her by staying with them, to help them keep themselves together as they go through life’s challenges.

Their story showcased several facets of family life: the emotional struggles of the father, the resolve of the mother whose stabilizing force is tested constantly, and the situation that their son and daughter are in as they suddenly faced an unexpected turn from the life that they were used to before the pandemic, when everything was still sweet and rosy.

The story of the Ekselente family was convincingly brought to life through a six-part series that featured real-life scenarios, coupled with pleasant and rejuvenating—sometimes heart-wrenching—music, as the family went through their daily struggles, a life suddenly turned upside down. The father, Jojo Ekselente, is a former Overseas Filipino Worker who bought the resort to show that he is capable of giving his wife, who comes from a well-off family, and his children, whom he barely knew him since he was always overseas working, a comfortable life. He returned to the country because of the pandemic but struggled to find a decent job.

Soledad “Sol” Ekselente, the resolute rich kid, struggled in keeping the resort and her family intact, even if she has almost zero experience running a business, let alone a household because she was a unica hija. She is trying to learn to handle things, no doubt, but the hardships kept piling up, like whether to sell the resort or not, and keeping away from her snobbish mother.

David Ekselente, the “chill” guy, is the exact opposite of his sister. The family’s “gamer” seems to lack that competitive fire his sister has, and would rather settle with what he has at the moment than chase the bigger things in life and not be too preoccupied with the family’s problems since he has problems of his own.

Cheska Ekselente, the last member of the Ekselente off-springs, is very much like his father—competitive and go-getter—an ambitious Dean’s Lister in college and an aspiring social media influencer. She is driven by her desire to be fully independent and will stop at nothing to achieve her goals, yet longs for attention from her father whom she feels she doesn’t know much since he was always out of the country working, until now that he became jobless but may soon return for work and may leave again.

Finally, the matriarch, Lola Beatrice (Sol’s mother) is the picture-perfect rendition of an alta sosyedad mother– nosy, sneering, condescending—but can be deemed overprotective since Sol is an only daughter. She makes known her disdain for his son-in-law, rubbing in his incompetence by being a lola who spoils her grandchildren, always giving them what they want just to despise their father.

The six-episode Casa Ekselente story was part of an impressive digital marketing promotion initiative for 2022 presented by Taiwan Excellence, and ably utilized the power of cohesive content to broaden engagement and reach. The story of the Ekselente family is part of a strategy that used organic and creative content in order to generate organic reach and strengthen product and consumer connection for six Taiwan Excellence Award-winning brands such as Juliart, Asus, Acer and FECA during the regular scenes.

For the scenes that involved music, on the other hand, the brands that were seen were Aromase, Annie’s Way, Gigabyte, Johnson Fitness, Tatung and Transcend.

And the results for Casa Ekselente were totally impressive and significant, where the six episodes garnered over 900,000 views on Facebook and Instagram. It was, indeed, a successful move by Taiwan Excellence that employed excellent strategies in order to achieve excellence and achievement in digital marketing.

DFA Passport Renewal 2022 | How to Renew your Philippine Passport.

After more than a year since our passports have expired, Yue and I finally had the chance to have them renewed. It took me awhile to process our renewal because of the pandemic as consular offices were either closed, or there were limited slots available in the nearby consular office. Also, I had to wait until both Yue and I got our COVID vaccines for safety reasons since we're still in a pandemic. I certainly wouldn't want to bring my son outdoors or expose him to a crowd unless he's vaccinated.

Our 2016 e-Passports - well-loved, and frequently used before the pandemic.

Anyway, if you're planning to renew your passport or applying for a passport for the first time, here's what you need to do:

1. Schedule an appointment.

You can book a slot online using the Department of Foreign Affairs' Passport Appointment System. Passport applications and renewals are strictly by appointment basis only. Walk-ins are no longer entertained at the DFA Aseana office unless it's an emergency case.

DFA's official booking website.

When you schedule your appointment, you will first be asked whether it's an individual appointment or a group appointment. I chose group appointment, of course, since there will be two of us renewing our passports. 

Select group appointment for 2-5 applicants.

You may then select your preferred venue. Thankfully, we now have a consular office here at SM City San Pablo. No need to drive all the way to Alabang like when we renewed our passports six years ago.

Choose your preferred venue.

The next part is usually the toughest - choosing the date and time for your appointment. Keep in mind that slots run out of fast, and your preferred date and time might not be available. As of this writing, the earliest available appointment date for SM City San Pablo is August 01, 2022. If you don't want to wait that long or if you're in a rush to get or renew your passport, you need to go back to the menu, choose a different venue, and see if they have slots available for an earlier date. 

Choose your preferred date and time.

2. Input your personal information.

After securing your appointment schedule, you will then be asked to fill-out a form which includes your personal information, family information, and contact details. For passport renewal, you need to key in details of your old/expired passport such as the passport number, date of issue, and issuing office.

Personal information page.

Make sure that all the information you provided are correct - no typos, especially in the names and birthdays. Errors or discrepancies in your personal information can cause delay or rejection in your passport renewal or application.

3. Review your personal details and proceed to payment.

After keying in your personal information, you will be given a chance to review the form and check if there are any errors. The next step will be paying for your passport, which can be done online with your credit or debit card, or through authorized payment centers such as Bayad Center, Villarica, LBC, Western Union, and 7Eleven. 

I paid with my credit card because that's the most convenient for me. I had to pay an extra Php 100 as convenience fee, but that's okay since I don't want to go through all that hassle of leaving the house and waiting in line at a payment center.

Online payment via credit card.

For regular processing (14 working days), passport fee is Php 950 each while expedited processing (7 working days) costs Php 1200 each. I chose the regular processing since we don't have international travel plans just yet.

4. Wait for the confirmation email. 

After your payment has been confirmed, you will then receive an email confirming your DFA appointment. This usually takes up to 24 hours, so please be patient.

Confirmation email from DFA. Yay!

Once you have received the email, print it, and the PDF attachments that come with it. You need to bring this on the date of your appointment, as well as the following documents:

    Adults (Passport Renewal)

• Current e-passport
• Photocopy of passport's data page
• Valid ID 
• Photocopy of valid ID

    Minors (Passport Renewal)

• Current e-passport
• Photocopy of passport's data page
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if only one parent is accompanying the child)
• School ID (if applicable)

For new passports, you may refer to the complete list of requirements here.

5. Go to the DFA Consular Office as scheduled.

According to DFA guidelines, you need to be at the DFA office 10 minutes ahead of your schedule. Proper attire is required - collared shirts are a must, and shorts and slippers are not allowed. Minors, seniors, pregnant women, and persons with disability are allowed to have one companion only. Face masks are required, and bring your vaccination cards just to be sure. Observing proper health protocols is also a must.

Although our appointment was at 2pm, Yue and I were already at the DFA SM San Pablo Consular Office by 1:30 pm. Despite being 30 minutes too early, the guard at the front door was kind enough to let us in since there were not too many people waiting in line anyway. Another guard ushered us in after checking our appointment schedule and the documents and requirements that we brought. 

Waiting in line at the Processing Section.

After sitting in line for about ten minutes, our names were called at the Processing Section. The lady at Window 3 checked verified our application, checked our documents, and asked me to sign the application form. She also gave me a claim stub for our new passports, which will be released on June 8. 

At the Encoding Section.

We then proceeded to the Encoding Section where our biometrics were taken. Here, the encoder will take your photo, then your thumbprints, and then encode your data. He/she will then ask you to double check the data encoded, so watch out for typos and the like. If there are no errors in your data and you're satisfied with your passport photo, you will then be asked to sign a validation form.

If you choose to have your passports delivered, you will need to sign up and pay at the Courier section. Yue and I skipped this step since we'll be picking-up our passports at the DFA SM San Pablo Consular Office come June 8.

Yes, Yue is this tall already!

He's even taller than me!

And with that, we are done with our appointment! Now we just have to wait for our passports, and claim them on the scheduled date. Will update this post once our new passports are available! :)

Well-Being Programs for Employees are a key asset for companies during pandemic – Avon PH.

Being in a global health crisis for more than two years has unraveled the advantages and disadvantages of the traditional work setup. In a bid to curb the negative effects of the “new normal”, Avon Philippines updated employee health benefits to include a pilot program for mental health—and the company is now reaping the benefits.

In 2021, the number one relationship selling company in the Philippines introduced the Mindnation program to Avon associates. The program allows staff to book sessions with a professional psychologist, and attend webinars and programs that address mental health concerns.

After almost a year, these programs have gained high well-being scores in their recent internal survey from employees who have taken part in the program. “Avon takes a genuine interest in their employees’ well-being,” according to one of the feedback.

Avon Philippines has seen improvement in their attrition rate compared to the past year, bucking the global trend of turnovers that have been going on since the start of the pandemic.

“In acknowledging how this global crisis is affecting people differently, it only became apparent that we must provide the personalized support needed by employees so that they can continue to perform at their best,” says Jan Pambid, Director for People Culture & Organization of Avon PH & APAC.

Aside from providing mental health support, additional COVID-19 medical coverage has also been put in place, providing financial aid for employees should they get hospitalized during infection.

Overall, the new mental and well-being benefits were the latest in the company’s string of internal program pivots during the pandemic, which includes service awards and virtual regional mentorship opportunities with Asia Pacific leaders and talents.

In recognition of its internal initiatives, Avon Philippines has been certified as a Top Employer for a second straight year by the global authority in recognizing excellence in People Practices—Top Employers Institute—which held its annual Certification Celebration event last January.

The Top Employer Institute has certified over 1,800 organizations in more than 120 countries and regions, which creates a positive impact on the lives of more than 8 million employees globally.

“The positive feedback from our employees only proves that investing in their wellbeing is more than just a corporate responsibility,” adds Razvan Diratian, Avon Philippines’ General Manager. “We hope to continue in providing support for our and associates in the next years to come.”

Panasonic Ensures Safety of Medical Students and Future Doctors, Equips FEU-NRMF Medical Schools with nanoe™ X Technology.

Pursuant to their mission and vision as a company, Panasonic continues to advocate cleaner and fresher air for life. In recent events, the company partnered with the Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (FEU-NRMF) in Novaliches, Quezon City through a donation in the form of nanoe™ X-equipped Panasonic Air Purifiers as well as Panasonic Portable nanoe™ X Generators for the university’s use in its medical schools.

It has always been Panasonic’s objective to provide cleaner and quality air for the community. And in this time of need, the installation of Panasonic’s nanoe™ X technology, through the different avenues it has been able to explore, not only turned the company’s vision into a reality but has been amplifying the safety and welfare of people affected by the novel coronavirus in high-traffic areas including vaccination sites, hospitals, and schools. This initiative is in par with Panasonic’s agenda of expanding their current program this 2022 to be of assistance to students, most especially in the medical field, that will be instrumental in the future of the health care system of the Philippines.

Moreover, these groundbreaking, state-of-the-art technologies are designed and have been verified to have inhibitory effects on airborne and adhered viruses, including the novel coronavirus*. Students, teachers and staff members of FEU-NRMF can now breathe a sigh of relief, with the assurance of another layer of protection from the virus, especially now in the event that face-to-face classes are nearing its resumption.

Previous Panasonic excursions included partnerships with different local city government units to disseminate the technology they have, including donations to Mandaluyong City, Makati City, Malabon City, Taguig City, Quezon City, and the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).

Guests in attendance at FEU-NRMF’s Alfonso Hall for the short turnover ceremony held last December 10, 2021, included General Manager of Life Solutions and Panasonic Country Head, Yosuke Tanaka, Communications and Product Planning Manager of Panasonic Air Conditioning Philippines (PACPH), Francis Serrato, FEU-NRMF Chief Operating Officer, Juan Enrique Reyes, Dr. Magdalena Natividad, Dr. Nolan Pecho, and other FEU-NRMF department heads, staff, and medical students, who all showed exuberance, appreciation and interest in learning more about the aforementioned nanoe™ X technology.

Yosuke Tanaka, in a short message to students and staff present, shared, “It is a great honor for Panasonic to be sharing our technology. It is our pride and joy to make nanoe™ X technology accessible in this prestigious university and give everyone the opportunity to experience quality air for life so you can focus on your craft as future medical professionals.” A total of 16 Panasonic nanoe™ X air purifiers and 18 Panasonic Portable nanoe™ X Generators were donated. Classrooms equipped with nanoe™ X products are identifiable through Panasonic’s nanoe™ X safety seal sticker. With this contribution, the company hopes for improved protection in its classrooms in time for the resumption of face-to-face classes. Freebies such as nanoe™ X face masks, fans, and pillows, were also given to students in attendance.

Francis Serrato, Communications and Product Planning Manager of Panasonic Air Conditioning Philippines (PACPH) held a short lecture to further educate everyone in attendance on the science behind the brand’s nanoe™ X technology. “Panasonic has leveraged the power of hydroxyl radicals contained in water to purify the air around us. Proven by its effectiveness on four novel coronaviruses variants** , Alpha, Beta, Gama and Delta, the assurance of breathing in clean air when these products are around is something we, in Panasonic, are glad to share.”

During the event, some students were also asked how they feel about the installation of the nanoe™ X technology in their school premises. Katrina Pacuan, a 3rd year medical technologystudent, said, “It’s easier to breath now especially if you have this kind of technology that protects you from harmful viruses.”

A nursing student also shared his thoughts, “I’m so excited for face-to-face classes to resume because now we have nanoe™ X technology to protect us from viruses and assure us of our safety and welfare.”

 Notes:

 *: based on Texcell, a global contract research organization, verified the inhibitory effect of the nanoe™ X technology with the benefits of hydroxyl radicals on adhered novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) placed in a 45L box. Over 99.99% of adhered novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) activity was inhibited within 2 hours. Note: This verification was designed to generate basic research data on the effects of nanoe™ X on the novel coronavirus in laboratory conditions different from those found in living spaces. It was not designed to evaluate product performance.

**: based on a comparative verification of in collaboration with the Japan Textile Products Quality and Technology Center (QTEC) was conducted in a 45L test space containing the four novel coronavirus variants with and without exposure to nanoe™. Over 99% of four novel coronavirus variants activity was inhibited within 2 hours.

This verification was designed to generate basic research data on the effects of nanoe™ on the novel coronavirus in laboratory conditions different from those found in living spaces. It was not designed to evaluate product performance.

Pru Life UK teaches money lessons during pandemic.

During this emotionally and financially exhausting time, financially preparing for anything that may happen is of utmost importance. As we continue to live through the pandemic, everyone should learn the value of saving and investing to cover future uncertainties.

While it is better for Filipinos to have certain layers of protection not only for themselves but for their families as well, having the knowledge about what they are availing or investing is equally important.

Products that offer protection and investment rolled into one are a great start among Filipinos wanting to have security amid these challenging times. Among the many reasons why these products are sought after even by the ordinary Juans is the security and growth it provides financially.

Photo credit: Pixabay.

For people who want to invest but are concerned about having to deal with certain critical illnesses, products such as the PRUHealth Prime is perfect for them. It eases the financial burden of battling cancer with a 50% cash out upon diagnosis of pre-defined early stage cancer while giving its subscribers the ability to build a bigger health fund with its investment component.

The PRULink Elite Protector is also among the products that offer maximum life protection with payment terms that are flexible to suit your needs while letting wealth grow faster with a greater portion of premiums invested in chosen funds. On the other hand, the PRULink Assurance Account Plus is a great fit for people who want a bigger and more comprehensive protection package at a lesser cost, while allowing continuous payment with a portion of your premium investable in your chosen fund.

Filipinos who want life protection coverage and start investing at any time and can afford to pay once may want to avail the PRULink Investor Account Plus and PRUMillionaire.

Apart from having life protection and investment for ourselves and our loved ones, below are also some money lessons that we can learn during the pandemic:

Photo credit: Karolina Grabowska.

Track Your Expenses and Save

Budgeting is important. Start looking at your income and expenses. There are mobile apps that track spending and manage accounts, making this step much easier. While most people are staying at home because of lockdown and other restrictions, it is the best time to find small ways to save, such as canceling unnecessary subscriptions, refraining from buying fancy or unnecessary things, and making bigger shifts, such as moving in with family members to save money on rent and shared utilities.

Take Advantage of all the Financial Relief Programs

If you’re able to receive financial aid from the government or other institutions during the pandemic, it’s smart to take that opportunity. Use that money to spend on the most important things you need daily, like food. You can also set a portion of it for your electricity and housing rental because there are businesses who are giving their consumers payment extensions.

Photo credit: Anna Nekrashevich.

The Best Time to Invest is Now

Many surveys and studies show that the earlier you invest, the better. A little amount of money invested now will put more money in your pocket in the future. If you can stay disciplined, you will reach your goals. You can maximize this in the long run just by starting now and staying on track. If you need assistance, consider hiring a financial advisor and do research on which company you may invest in.

The pandemic has been a wake-up call for many people to be concerned not just about their financial security but also their health protection. Getting life protection and investment in one, can be one of the smartest things that a person can do during this time. Having health, life protection, and money growth means you can prepare for most of the hospital expenses and for anything that may happen in the future such as illness, retirement, or even death, while still growing your wealth as you achieve your life goals.

To learn more about Pru Life UK’s Insuravest products visit www.prulifeuk.com.ph.

Panasonic Protects Ospital ng Malabon with nanoeTM X Technology.

Panasonic, as part of its global campaign to spread advocacy for cleaner and fresher air for life, continued to reach out to local governments through a contribution to Malabon City in the form of nanoeTM X air purifiers, and nanoeTM X generators, that have been verified to have inhibitory effects on the novel coronavirus* for use at the Ospital ng Malabon.

Panasonic Country Head and General Manager of Life Solutions Group Yosuke Tanaka, Panasonic Air-Conditioning Philippines (PACPH) Communications & Product Planning Manager Francis Serrato, Malabon City Mayor Antolin Oreta III, Ospital ng Malabon Chief of Hospital Dr. Jen Amolo - Lim, Ospital ng Malabon Administrator Flourescelle Austria, Ospital ng Malabon doctors, nurses, front liners, and staff were present during the turn-over.

The nanoeTM X air purifiers and portable nanoeTM X generators are to be used by the hospital to ensure quality air in high-risk areas as well as in the outpatient areas of the City’s premier public hospital that caters not only to Covid-19 patients but other medical needs of the people of Malabon. The hospital in 2020, was forced to temporarily stop accepting non-COVID-19 cases after several medical workers tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

In his acceptance speech, Malabon City Mayor Oreta thanked Panasonic for its invaluable support to the city, “This is a big help for the city of Malabon. On behalf of the 380,000 Malabon-ians who come to the hospital often (hopefully they don’t come as much and bababa ang COVID cases natin), we are very thankful for Panasonic Philippines and Life Solutions for helping us clean our air here in OsMal, Malabon Hospital.”

It has always been the intention of Panasonic to provide cleaner and fresher air to improve the quality of life for everyone with the introduction of the nanoeTM in 1997 and nanoeTM X in 2016.

Tanaka said, “It has always been the intention of Panasonic to provide cleaner and fresher air to improve the quality of life for everyone. For years, we have been growing and advocating the use of our nanoeTM and nanoeTMX technology; and now, timely as it may seem, it is here to help us in controlling the transmission of the novel coronavirus as well as other possible air-borne infections as proven by independent testing organizations.”

In 2009, with the help of an independent testing organization, Panasonic verified the effect of hydroxyl radicals contained in water against bird flu and new strains of influenza, and in 2012, in collaboration with an independent testing organization in Germany, again conducted virus clearance testing that showed effectiveness of the technology against highly resistant viruses and unknown viruses. **

Just last year, again using an independent testing organization, Texcell*** – France, further verified the inhibitory effect of Panasonic’s patented nanoeTM X technology on the novel coronavirus that causes Covid-19.

The Malabon City partnership is part of a bigger program of Panasonic in the Philippines to provide air purifying and anti-covid technology of nanoeTM X in selected sites in the National Capital Region to protect medical front liners and Filipinos.

In the past months, Panasonic has been to vaccination sites in Mandaluyong City, and Makati City, as well as in the Philippine General Hospital to make the front liners and the public feel safer.

“It is our hope, in Panasonic, that as one community, we may ACT TOGETHER in helping bring back the Filipino smile through the technology and innovation that we in Panasonic can provide,” Tanaka ended.

Panasonic works hard to bring back the smiles of the unsung heroes of this pandemic, and the Filipino people, for them to feel safer, breathe easier, and be more secure to smile once again. For more information on Panasonic and its patented technologies, please visit https://www.panasonic.com/ph/nanoe

*1: based on the Texcell, global contract research organization, verified the inhibitory effect of the nanoe™ X technology with the benefits of hydroxyl radicals on adhered novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) placed in 45L box. Over 99.99% of adhered novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) activity was inhibited within 2 hours. Note: This verification was designed to generate basic research data on the effects of nanoe™ X on the novel coronavirus in laboratory conditions different from those found in living spaces. It was not designed to evaluate product performance.

 

**2: Main releases on verification cases - May 12, 2009：Positive effects of charged water particles on viruses, bacteria, and agricultural chemicals have been verified. - October 20, 2009： The new influenza virus inhibition effect of charged water particles has been verified. - February 20, 2012：Suppression effect of charged water particles on pet-related allergens, bacteria, fungi, and viruses have been verified. - January 16, 2014：Nano-sized electrostatic atomized water particles effectively break down PM2.5 components and inhibits growth of fungi attached to Yellow Sand. 

***3: Texcell is a global contract research organization that specializes in viral testings, viral clearance, immunoprofiling and R&D or GMP cell banking, for your R&D, GClP, GLP and GMP projects. With more than 30 years of experience and roots within the Pasteur Institute in Paris, Texcell has a long-recognized expertise in viral testing with a broad range of protocols for the detection of adventitious agents. Texcell is the first spin-off of the Pasteur institute of Paris created in 1997.

Live Safe with Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol.

Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol encourages Filipinos to live safe with many establishments slowly re-opening and allowing people to resume their pre-pandemic lifestyles. But we have to keep in mind that establishments are re-opening for the economy and the livelihood of many, not because it's safe or the country is already COVID-free. 

We are still in the midst of the pandemic, but with the nationwide vaccination program in full force, Filipinos can slowly enjoy various activities. These include more dining options, leisure activities such as going to parks and playgrounds, and even physical activities such as going to the gym. In Metro Manila, kids are now allowed entry to malls, restaurants, and other indoor establishments. However, health experts continue to remind everyone to not let their guards down even as we gradually go back to normal.

My son got his first dose of the COVID vaccine, too!

As there are reports of new and potentially more contagious variants, everyone must remain vigilant through following established health protocols and getting vaccinated so we can all continue to live safe and prevent the cases from surging again. Thankfully, everyone in our family is now vaccinated - Yue finally got his first dose of the COVID vaccine last Friday and he couldn't be happier! He says it's an early birthday gift for him (he's turning thirteen in a few days!).

Also, when we do essential errands such as buying groceries, exercising outdoors, or simply going outside, we disinfect our hands and any surface we interact with, and make sure we always, always follow health and safety protocols.

Can't leave home without a bottle of Defensil!

One way to prevent the spread of the virus is by always carrying a trusted rubbing alcohol brand that contains at least 70% alcohol solution whenever we go outdoors.

Defensil 70% Solution Isopropyl Alcohol, the alcohol recommended by the Philippine Society for Microbiology (PSM), can kill 99.9% of common germs and bacteria*, and eliminate them on contact so that we can safely do the activities we love wherever we are. Defensil also provides up to 12 hours of protection upon constant use so that we are protected and can do activities with ease.

Skin dryness from too frequent sanitizing will also not be a worry as Defensil has moisturizing properties and is hypoallergenic, giving us one less thing to worry about when going indoors.

There's always a bottle of Defensil (or two) in Yue's study area.

 "We are 100% behind the government in their efforts to prevent further spread of the virus. Defensil encourages everyone to remain vigilant now more than ever and do our part in this fight towards eventually resuming our normal way of life by adhering to social Distancing and sanitation protocols, especially when doing essential errands outdoors," shared Nikko Cruz, Brand Manager of Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol.

For more information on how to stay protected, you may visit the Defensil Isopropyl Alcohol’s Facebook page at facebook.com/defensil.philippines. 

*Defensil 70% Isopropyl Alcohol was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli or E. coli and Candida albicans

Surviving the Pandemic with Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings.

The uncertainties that came with the global health pandemic led to financial stress that altered the lifestyle of many Filipinos. For close to two years since the global COVID-19 pandemic started, many lost their jobs and had to make do with what little savings they have stashed away.

A study titled, “State of Banking and Financial Wellness” commissioned by US-based research firm Forrester, indicated that more than half of Filipinos identified building their savings as one of their top concerns when it comes to personal finance.

The desire to have money safely stashed when rainy days come, is one that is shared by every Filipino—regardless of stature in life or the money they earn. When COVID-19 hit, majority of Filipinos were left without a stable means of livelihood as the strict lockdown badly affected the economy, leading to a significant number of business closures and an uncertain future for those engaged in the gig economy.

Photo credit: Olya Kobruseva on Pexels.

Stemming from its desire to push for financial inclusion for every Filipino, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank partnered with Cebuana Lhuillier, one of the country’s leading micro financial service providers, to introduce Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings in 2019. Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings provided Filipinos with an accessible and convenient means to save their hard-earned money by addressing the common barriers in saving, including lack of accessibility, the need for numerous documentary requirements, and the high cost of a starting and maintaining a balance.

“Our main priority is to be a one-stop shop for the micro financial needs of our kababayans. With our commitment of financial inclusion and mobility for everyone, Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings account is one of the great products we have created to empower many of our kababayans to save, regardless of their status in life,” Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier said.

The promise of having money saved in times of need was what inspired Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings account holders Pillilia Pardo and Maria Luisa Luna to open a savings account and work hard to build a comfortable fund that they can rely on when needed.

Pillilia, a 79-year-old sari-sari store owner in Las Pinas, makes sure to deposit a fraction of her daily earnings into her micro savings account. With her store located right beside the Cebuana Lhuillier Casimiro branch, she has become a daily fixture for the branch personnel who assists her on her everyday transactions.

Pililia Pardo, a 79-year old sari-sari store owner from Las Pinas
and a loyal micro savings account holder, dreams of imparting
the value of savings to her children.

“Napakahalaga ng savings, kasi pag dumating ang pagkakataon na ikaw ay magigipit, kailangan mo ng pera. Kung mayroon kang ipon, anytime puwede ka makapag-withdraw,” shares the septuagenarian. When the pandemic hit, Pillilia used her micro savings account to augment her day-to-day expenses, which included medicines, food, utilities, and rent. When the lockdowns affected her store’s earnings, she was comforted by the fact that she did not have to resort to borrowing money in order to get by. “Hindi ka magsisisi kung nakapag-ipon ka…anytime nangailangan, nandiyan ang ipon ko. Mayroon akong magagamit,” she adds.

For Maria Luisa, it was her savings that literally saved her family in the midst of the strict Manila lockdowns. She earns her keep by collecting recyclables which she then sells in a junkyard. For over two years, even before the lockdown began, she would make sure that a portion of her earnings goes to her Cebuana Lhuillier micro savings account, which she intends to use during emergencies.

Maria Luisa Luna, a 64-year old garbage collector from Manila,
relied on her micro savings account when the pandemic badly hit her family.

“Hindi na kami makapangalakal nung naghigpit sa lockdown. Yung kinakain namin, halos galing na lang sa ayuda ng gobyerno pero hindi naman sapat yun. Nagkasakit pa ang anak ko. Hindi ko naman matiis na hindi maipagamot. Doon ko na naisip na gamitin yung ipon ko sa Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings. Tuwing may kailangan sa bahay, gaya nang pangkain at pang-renta, withdraw ako. Tapos pagpapagamot sa anak, withdraw ulit,” Maria Luisa shares. She admits that the protracted quarantine period had drained her savings, but now that everything is slowly going back to normal, she has also resumed building her emergency nest egg, visiting the Cebuana Lhuillier branch nearest her after a day of collecting recyclables and items to sell.

Since its launch, Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings has enabled more than 5.5M account holders to have a semblance of peace of mind in times of great need and emergencies. As a cash agent, Cebuana Lhuillier provided account holders with a reliable and highly accessible venue to deposit and withdraw their money in any of its 2,500 branches nationwide, anytime and anywhere.

In 2020, Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings was made even more accessible and convenient with the introduction of its new digital features.

“We’ve always believed that Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings should be able to evolve according to the changing needs of its users. By going digital, Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings is providing greater IPON POWER to its account holders, by providing them convenience and mobility in maximizing the use of their savings through digital channels,” Cebuana Lhuillier bank President, Dennis Valdes added.

May IPON POWER ka na with Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings!

Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings boasts of greater IPON POWER through the following features: withdraw cash in over 21,000+ BancNet ATMs nationwide anytime and anywhere; purchase online thru UnionPay merchants worldwide; 24/7 unlimited banking access with eCebuana app; and do cashless payments in over 350,000 UnionPay and BancNet accredited stores nationwide.

With more and more Filipinos slowly realizing the value of saving, Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings is gearing towards further improving its features to better provide its account holders with a dependable ally they can continuously rely on.

Makati City Provided with Unique Panasonic nanoeTM and nanoeTM X Technology for Use in Main Vaccination Site.

Panasonic, as part of its global campaign to spread advocacy for cleaner and fresher air for life, recently reached out to the local government of Makati City through a contribution in the form of nanoe^TM air purifiers, and nanoe^TM X generators, that have been verified to have inhibitory effects on the novel coronavirus*. The equipment set-up and turnover were done at the main vaccination site of the city located at the Makati Coliseum.

Panasonic Air-Conditioning Philippines CEO Masaru Toyota, Life Solutions Group Country Head Yosuke Tanaka, Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay, and the Head of Makati Incident Command Post Dr. Roland Unson, were present during the site visit.

It has always been the intention of Panasonic to provide cleaner and fresher air to improve the quality of life for everyone with the introduction of the nanoe^TM in 1997 and nanoe^TM X in 2016.

In 2009, with the help of an independent testing organization, Panasonic verified the effect of hydroxyl radicals contained in water against bird flu and new strains of influenza, and in 2012, in collaboration with an independent testing organization in Germany, again conducted virus clearance testing that showed effectiveness of the technology against highly resistant viruses and unknown viruses.**

Just last year, again using an independent testing organization, Texcell*** – France, further verified the inhibitory effect of Panasonic’s patented nanoe^TM X technology on the novel coronavirus that causes Covid-19.

 
The Makati City partnership is part of a bigger program of Panasonic in the Philippines to provide air purifying and anti-covid technology of nanoe^TM X in selected sites in the National Capital Region to protect medical front liners and Filipinos in vaccination areas and to make them and the public feel safer with the theme “Bring Back the Filipino Smile”.

Panasonic works hard to bring back the smiles of the unsung heroes of this pandemic, and the Filipino people, for them to feel safer, breathe easier, and be more secure to smile once again.

For more information on Panasonic and its patented technologies, please visit https://www.panasonic.com/ph/nanoe

Notes:

*: based on the Texcell, global contract research organization, verified the inhibitory effect of the nanoe™ X technology with the benefits of hydroxyl radicals on adhered novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) placed in 45L box. Over 99.99% of adhered novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) activity was inhibited within 2 hours. Note: This verification was designed to generate basic research data on the effects of nanoe™ X on the novel coronavirus in laboratory conditions different from those found in living spaces. It was not designed to evaluate product performance.

**: Main releases on verification cases - May 12, 2009：Positive effects of charged water particles on viruses, bacteria, and agricultural chemicals have been verified. - October 20, 2009： The new influenza virus inhibition effect of charged water particles has been verified. - February 20, 2012：Suppression effect of charged water particles on pet-related allergens, bacteria, fungi, and viruses have been verified. - January 16, 2014：Nano-sized electrostatic atomized water particles effectively break down PM2.5 components and inhibits growth of fungi attached to Yellow Sand

***: Texcell is a global contract research organization that specializes in viral testings, viral clearance, immunoprofiling and R&D or GMP cell banking, for your R&D, GClP, GLP and GMP projects. With more than 30 years of experience and roots within the Pasteur Institute in Paris, Texcell has a long-recognized expertise in viral testing with a broad range of protocols for the detection of adventitious agents. Texcell is the first spin-off of the Pasteur institute of Paris created in 1997.