Monthly Archives

December 2023

Lifestyle, News

The men’s fashion chart on TikTok Philippines is topped by MPMG, who sold over 10,000 items in a single day

Following a spike in sales with over 10,000 orders in a single day, the local apparel business  Make “Philippine-Made” Great (MPMG) has taken the top spot on the TikTok Philippines Men’s Fashion list for October and November 2023. Since its founding in February 2023, MPMG has grown quickly and achieved significant traction in the Philippine fashion sector, especially with younger customers.

MPMG, which is well-known for its simple styles and wide selection, provides reasonably priced, basic clothing that is adaptable in terms of styling. The brand is dedicated to offering locally produced, high-quality apparel, and it targets the younger market with fashionable yet reasonably priced fashion options. MPMG caters to the fashion needs of younger customers by offering reasonably priced, fashionable apparel options. They depart from the conventional focus on luxury labels and pricey apparel and emphasize that fashion is a tool for personal expression.

MPMG’s ascent to prominence has been largely attributed to its skillful use of social media, especially TikTok, which appeals to younger viewers. The company’s “Buy 1 Take 1” promotion helped it become much more visible and successful, as evidenced by the day-by-day sales of over 10,000 units.

“This milestone marks a groundbreaking moment for MPMG as it is not just a win for our brand ergo, it’s a bold statement about the rising influence and global potential of Philippine-made fashion. Our journey, from a local startup to a trendsetter in less than a year reflects our deep connection with the youth and our ability to turn minimalist designs into a fashion revolution. We’re not just selling clothes; we’re weaving the vibrant spirit and creativity of the Philippines into every fabric. This is more than fashion; it’s a movement,” said Kevin Co, CEO of MPMG.

MPMG encourages consumers to support fashion created in the Philippines as it works to maintain its position as a leader in the industry. The brand intends to launch additional projects in its pursuit of changing the perception of fashion, empowering youth, and making a significant impact on the international fashion industry.

Social Media Accounts:

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@mpmgofficialstore 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/mpmgofficialstore 

Shopee: www.shopee.ph/mpmgofficialstore  

Lazada: www.lazada.com.ph/shop/mpmg-men-s-clothing 

Food

Uplifting “treat day” presents for you and yours loved ones


Share the love this Christmas with your family with the limited edition Swiss Miss Bliss Pack
 

Gift-giving is a popular pastime among Filipinos, particularly around the holidays. We are renowned for putting in the effort to care for our friends and family because it is one of the ways we express our love and give them a unique experience.

Here are some suggestions if you’re searching for endearing “treat day” gifts for the holidays or just to brighten someone’s day:

For film enthusiasts: Take in an enjoyable film at the cinema.

Alone time with a movie may be freeing and soothing. If there’s a movie that you’ve been wanting to see for months, don’t wait to reserve your ticket for your day off. 

You can also share the fun with your family. Find a movie that all of you can enjoy, like a comedy or slice of life drama. Make sure that it’s kid-friendly as well if your kids or pamangkins will be tagging along.

For the kikay shoppers: Retail therapy at your favorite stores

Update your wardrobe and wellness kits with a much-needed shopping spree, especially after you get your paycheck. Don’t forget to get a thoughtful gift for your friends and family, especially if they can’t come with you. It can be new clothing, accessories, or beauty products that they’ve been checking out on their favorite online shops. They will appreciate you treating them to nice stuff, even on regular days.


Celebrate this holiday season with your loved ones by enjoying cups of Swiss Miss together
 
 

For the expressive gift-givers: A warm chocolate drink and a sweet letter

The chilly Christmas weather calls for a warm chocolate drink. Express your love in a sweet way by treating friends and family with the Swiss Miss Bliss Pack, which comes in a beautiful box where you can write a sweet, heartfelt letter to show your appreciation to your family and friends. This limited-edition holiday gift pack also comes with a limited-edition mug that they can use anytime, anywhere to treat themselves good.

Treat your loved ones to thoughtful presents this holiday season, like the limited-edition Swiss Miss Bliss Pack, to make the occasion even more memorable. With each sip, this decadent beverage will quench your sweet tooth and provide you and your family with a satisfying experience. Since it’s simple to create, you can really enjoy the moment when you’re with people you care about. To #TreatYourselfGood, you may serve this at any time, even on special occasions.

While supplies last, snag the brand-new Swiss Miss Bliss Pack. It costs Php 112.00 (SRP) per box and can be purchased at reputable supermarkets as well as online retailers like Lazada, Shopee, and URC’s TikTok Shop.

Visit the Swiss Miss Philippines Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SwissMissPH/     for additional information.

Lifestyle

Manulife Expands Global Leadership Visit, Strengthens Philippine Footprint, Emphasizes Market Focus

Manulife, a global provider of financial services, recently visited the Philippines with its executive leadership team and global board of directors to reiterate their strong commitment to growing their business and entering new markets.

The Philippines is a market with significant development potential, according to Manulife. With a young population that is hyper-digital and empowered to manage their finances and health, the nation is well-positioned to better handle the changing financial habits of this group. We are well-positioned to assist more Filipinos in realizing their financial goals by providing them with access to Manulife’s cutting-edge insurance and investment options that may best suit their needs,” stated Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.

At the executive visit were Manulife’s Board of Directors Chair Don Lindsay, Nicole Arnaboldi, Susan Dabarno, and Andrea Rosen; and Manulife’s Executive Leadership’s Rahul Joshi, Global Chief Operations Officer; Phil Witherington, Asia Chief Executive Officer; and Pam Kimmett, Global Chief Human Resources Office. Honorable David Bruce Hartman, Ambassador of Canada to the Philippines, also graced his presence during a breakfast session.

Manulife operates five businesses in the country: Manulife Philippines, Manulife China Bank Life Assurance Corporation, and Manulife Investment Management and Trust Corporation, as well as its two offshoring companies, Manulife IT Delivery Center Asia and Manulife Business Processing Services. With almost 10,000 employees in the country, Manulife in the Philippines has the second largest employee base, next to its headquarters in Canada.

Manulife, which has been in business in the Philippines for 116 years, has maintained the faith and confidence of its stakeholders and clients by providing best-in-class goods and services that are sensitive to the changing needs of Filipinos in terms of protection, savings, investments, and health. Manulife, one of the most reputable and well-established international life insurers in the nation, is dedicated to being the most technologically advanced and customer-focused leader in the sector. Manulife has released the new Manulife Online mobile app, which is accessible on Google Play and the App Store, in an effort to further this goal and improve client convenience. In order to provide additional job possibilities to individuals who wish to flourish in a welcoming and fast-growing atmosphere while supporting Filipinos in their hour of need, it also consistently grows its agency force.

Manulife also formed strategic alliances with reputable non-governmental groups to help promote sustained health and well-being, promote inclusive economic opportunities, and hasten the transition to a more sustainable future in order to offer significant projects that further their  Impact Agenda in the Philippines.

Please visit www.manulife.com.ph for further details.

Beauty

MQ Cosmetics Presents Holiday Macaroon Bundle, Exclusive to MQ Cosmetics

Leading cosmetic brand MQ Cosmetics is excited to introduce the Macaroon Bundle, a special holiday deal. This limited-edition package is ideal for cosmetics aficionados and beauty fans, and it’s only available this month.

A selection of our well-liked macaroon-inspired tints are included in the Macaroon Bundle, providing a beautiful range of hues to elevate your holiday ensembles. Every macaroon hue is expertly created to offer rich pigmentation and long-lasting wear, guaranteeing a perfect and glitzy finish.

Individually, these macaroon shades are priced at 810 pesos each. However, with the Macaroon Bundle, customers can enjoy all the shades at a discounted price of only 595 pesos. This incredible offer allows our customers to save 215 pesos while enjoying the full range of our macaroon-inspired collection.

The holiday season is a time for celebration and indulgence, and the Macaroon Bundle embodies the spirit of joy and glamour. MQ Cosmetics. wanted to offer customers a special treat during this festive time, and the Macaroon Bundle is the perfect way to add a touch of sweetness and color to their makeup routine.

MQ Cosmetics strives to offer premium cosmetics that are both reasonably priced and opulent. This dedication is demonstrated by the Macaroon Bundle, which gives clients the chance to try our premium hues at a great price.

The Macaroon Bundle is exclusively available this ber month, so don’t pass up this fantastic deal. Get your hands on this limited-edition collection and upgrade your Christmas beauty looks by visiting our website or authorized shops.

Please call Joycenyl Reyes at 09494422025 or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/mqcosmeticsph for additional details.

Entertainment, News

Hepmil Philippines Introduces New Talent Initiatives to Strengthen Network Capabilities of Creators

The prominent digital content platform PGAG is operated by technology-driven media business  Hepmil Philippines, which has introduced innovative programs to develop the abilities and skills of hundreds of talented artists and creators within its network.

Hepmil Media Group’s Hepmil Philippines division oversees digital content platforms like SGAG and MGAG. The company’s original content division creates material that reaches more than 30 million Gen Z and millennial viewers each week around the region, and its creator network collaborates with more than 800 of the best digital content producers in the area, whose work receives over 3 billion views each month.

Hepmil Talents as TikTok Sellers

With the introduction of its social commerce solutions, Hepmil Philippines now gives its content creators the freedom to investigate different revenue streams for their work. In order to support their direct-to-consumer efforts, this initiative launches a new incubation program that will help them develop their social selling abilities and establish collaborations with local e-commerce firms.

“The unstoppable rise of TikTok Shop in the Philippines has brought a platform for our creators to not only elevate their game in content creation but also to increase their opportunities for monetized content,” said Jel Directo, Country Manager of Hepmil Creators’ Network.

“Since this is fast-growing in the local market, we have trained our creators in effective live selling, live streaming, and also affiliate content building. With this, we continue to be partners of brands that are first-movers in the bottom funnel creator marketing able to support them as they speed up test-and-learn efforts,” she added.

Expanding Hepmil Creators’ Network in the Philippines

Hepmil welcomed accomplished creators such as Jico Umali (Jiconyo), Pipay Kipay, and Adam Alejo into its roster of talented exclusive creators under its digital creator community, Hepmil Creators’ Network (HCN).

“We want our creator network to be represented by those who truly understand our passion and skill in content creation. With Jico as our homegrown creator in PGAG; Pipay known on TikTok for her comedy and wit and Adam Alejo, a YouTuber known for his most-watched idea-first challenges, we are able to showcase our ability to support brands in creating content that connects and matters to their audience,” Directo explained.

With a deep understanding of local culture, Hepmil and its partners are pioneering communication strategies tailored to engage this new generation of mobile-first consumers. Through organic integration into engaging content, brands can make authentic connections with audiences who want entertainment value.

Hepmil Philippines Reveals New and Relatable Showstoppers

True to its mission of empowering and supporting more content creators, the company has created a list of shows that offer entertainment and relatable contents for the audience.

At the forefront is “Oner Gang,” an exhilarating travel show featuring social media sensations Jico Umali and Risha Rodriguez. Embarking on an adventure across the Philippines, each episode immerses viewers in the tapestry of local communities to offer an authentic glimpse into the nation’s diverse cultures. From savoring delectable cuisines to exploring natural wonders, “Oner Gang” promises an unforgettable expedition.

Injecting humor into the lineup is PGAG‘s latest show, a workplace satire hilariously named “Sa Office.” Starring a stellar cast including Eryka Lucas, Jico Umali, Al Gentrix, and Bert Javellana, the series provides a comedic yet relatable look at office life. Penned by Aly Almario (Alyloony), “Sa Office” guarantees PGAG’s signature laugh-out-loud moments.

“We continue to innovate new shows, with our partner creators, to bring engaging and entertaining content to our fans, new and old,” said Erwin Razon, General Manager of PGAG and Bent Pixels Asia.

Established in 2018, PGAG is a marketing company based in the Philippines that connects with locals on a daily basis. It creates localized digital content for more than 24 million Millennials and Gen Z, particularly memes and videos, reaching over a few million Filipinos weekly through our four content distribution channels.

“The company’s strategic partnerships with rising platforms like Oner Gang and PGAG offer brands a strategic entry point into the evolving realm of digital marketing. As the rules of engagement are being rewritten, Hepmil is poised to author the next chapter in the industry,” said Razon.

“We strongly believe in the balance of advertising and entertainment on content, a mindset that allows us to thrive in integrating brand messages seamlessly within our content, while maintaining the authenticity and entertainment that our fans love,” he added.

Learn more about HCN and our creators at​ ​www.hepmil.com/creators​.

Sports

B.LEAGUE’s All-Star Game Weekend in Okinawa causes a global explosion


Photo provided by JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

This January, ballers and hoops enthusiasts of all ages should head to Okinawa! The B.LEAGUE All-Star Game Weekend 2024 in Okinawa is scheduled to convene elite players from throughout Asia! Don’t pass on this amazing opportunity! Proceed there and take part in the activity!

On January 12–14, 2024, in Okinawa, the B.LEAGUE All-Star Game Weekend 2024 will begin. You won’t want to miss it—it will take place at the Okinawa Arena!

International basketball fans will travel from all around the world to witness their favorite B.LEAGUE players compete for the championship victory. All-Stars and elite Asian players will be showcasing their skills on the court.

The B.LEAGUE has expanded since its founding in 2016. It is currently a well-known and fiercely competitive Japanese league recognized by FIBA, serving as a feeder to some of the most difficult international basketball championships. This is an opportunity for Filipino basketball fans to witness Japanese basketball up close and personal! Enter the game to see your top players in real time! all the while taking in Japan’s sights, sounds, and sensations.

To ensure that fans get the most out of their journeys to Japan, the league has put together a number of tour packages. They are designed with ardent admirers and dedicated followers in mind. They offer some amazing experiences like first floor seats and suite rooms, unique entrances, meet and greets only available to them, and mementos.

If your excitement about seeing your favorite players in Japan is strong enough, why not seize the chance to obtain amazing seats and exclusive access? Visit the website provided below! The Meet & Greet Package is offered from November 22, 2023, through December 15, 2023.

Please visit the following website for information and pricing: https://www.jtb.co.jp/sports/bleague_as2024_hospitality/

Entertainment

An Offshore Christmas, Offshore Music’s nine-track holiday album, is a “kaleidoscope of emotions.”

The compilation record features tracks from ena mori, Mt. Lewis, Elton Clark, Sansette, and more

With a new compilation CD that features its amazing lineup of local musicians, Offshore Music—a record label based in Manila that is well-known for emphasizing artistic integrity—captures the essence of the festive season.

Aptly titled An Offshore Christmas, the 9-track record earworms its way into the collective consciousness with diverse stories spanning generations and experiences, interpreting what Christmas meant from varied lenses: a joyful hymn that brims with life and humanity, a vodka-induced downer that revels in the sentiments of missing home, a quirky jam that envelopes listeners with comforting warmth, and simply, a frustrated sad song that barely keeps up with the season’s booming, optimistic energy.

“The album is a kaleidoscope of emotions, from melancholy to euphoria, as well as a feast for anyone who enjoys all kinds of music,” said Offshore Music CEO Ely Buendia.

Audry Dionisio, general manager of Offshore Music, is proud of the record’s refusal to fit neatly into a preconceived notion of what a holiday-themed record ought to be. As she notes, “We also made sure that people from different walks of life would not feel left out. Every song in the album can be played way past the Christmas season, that’s for sure.”

The Christmas-themed album features recently released tracks from its esteemed lineup of artists, including Pinkmen, Suspiria Pink, Elton Clark, Sansette, Eliza Marie, JR Oca Experience, Sulo, as well as additional new songs from ena mori and Mt. Lewis.

“With the new roster of artists on board, it also created a fresh and inspired energy within us to collaborate more with them and for them to showcase their abilities to the public more,” Offshore Music A&R Director Pat Sarabia shares.

Mt. Lewis’ “Trip To Jerusalem,” the album’s focus track, provides a contemporary spin on The Eraserheads’ cult holiday classic while retaining the original’s intrinsic charm and fuzz. When asked about how he feels about the rendition, Ely Buendia expressed his approval of the band’s tenacity to breathe new life to an underrated, deep cut. “We thought it was fitting to honor their brave achievement by having one of our artists cover a song from Fruitcake for our own Christmas release.”

Another album highlight is ena mori’s “Christmas Song (Version II),” a bittersweet little tune about choosing to celebrate Christmas alone with cats rather than joining a party filled with family members and friends who do nothing but send a minefield of emotional triggers. Over snappy, acoustic guitars and minimal percussions, the alt-pop star delivers an anthem that is bold and uncompromising in its message but remains hopeful amidst the intention to hide the hurting.

Offshore A&R Manager Otep Tumambing emphasizes that the holiday record is more than just a reinforcement of postcard-perfect tradition but also a time to nurse the wounds of isolation and grief—all valid feelings that deserve to be celebrated on the same level as their merrier counterparts.

“Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays globally, symbolizing joy, togetherness, and generosity. An Offshore Christmas aims to provide our artists and their audience with a platform to express their views on Christmas, even if it’s about sadness and loneliness. Not everyone experiences the usual ‘happy’ Christmas, and they deserve to be celebrated as well.”

An Offshore Christmas’  is currently available via Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment on all digital music platforms worldwide.

Learn more about our creators and labels here.

Automotive

This weekend at BGC, take a test drive in a Toyota electric vehicle

For the benefit of its consumers, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) is once again centralizing all of its Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) offerings in one location.

This coming weekend, December 8–10, 2023, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig will host the return of TMP’s electrified vehicle roadshow, called “Go Electrified with Toyota.” The Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater will host an open-to-the-public demonstration.

Toyota offers a variety of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) to make electrification affordable and feasible for Filipino consumers as part of its mission to assist in the country’s transition to carbon neutrality. TMP’s whole product, highlighted by the Yaris Cross, the company’s most reasonably priced electrified crossover, will be available at the Go Electrified event. The first 7-seater HEV Zenix from Toyota, the electrified premium van Alphard, the SUVs Corolla Cross and RAV4, and the hybrid sedans Corolla Altis and Camry will also be on exhibit. There will be test drives available for the majority of these featured units.

Aside from the vehicle showcase and test drives, there will also be other highlights for every member of the family including games and activities that will not only expand their knowledge on electrification and its positive impact to the environment, but also give them the chance to win exciting prizes from Toyota.

Lexus Philippines is also empowering those in the market for luxury electrified vehicles to be part of electrified movement with displays and test drive activities of its xEV lineup, headlined by its first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEW), the Lexus RZ.

Join Toyota in this electrifying movement. Talk about TMP’s electrified lineup with TMP representatives and marketing experts when you visit the Go Electrified with Toyota event center.

For the most recent information, visit toyota.com.ph/electrified, follow Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, ToyotaMotorPH on X, and become a member of the Toyota PH Viber community.

Tech

TECNO’s “Don’t Stop Rising” campaign encourages young Filipinos to achieve greater things

Through authentic storytelling and local influencers, TECNO sparks inspiration and innovation, fostering an unstoppable spirit in the heart of the Philippines.

Cutting-edge technology company TECNO unveiled its new brand manifesto video, “Never Not Ready,” to commemorate the start of its “Don’t Stop Rising” campaign in the Philippines today. TECNO, which has a pulse on Filipino youth, emphasizes the remarkable determination of young Filipinos to carve out their own niche and seize their own opportunity. The campaign is a powerful call to action, encouraging youth nationwide to seize each moment, personalize it, and never give up on becoming the best versions of themselves.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QRLB6RG-ATI7WMpDCVuG-HcfwTiCW0-l/view?usp=sharing

With the catchy and imaginative song “Never Not Ready,” this campaign soars beyond conventional brand videos. The video captures the essence of the modern Filipino youth: they don’t wait for the ideal moment to take action, but rather, they seize the chance to succeed. For example, a fashionista can use light from a CD to find creative ways to express herself on social media; a game lover never passes up the chance to improve his gaming skills, even while waiting for coffee; a passerby can pick up a basketball that comes to him, shoot, and score; and a dancer can choreograph and produce engaging TikTok content on the fly, no matter where or when.

The video authentically reflects the attitude and spirit of contemporary youth in the Philippines. As TECNO’s Chief Brand Officer, Lucia Liu shared: “We deeply understand Filipino consumers, which is why TECNO is initiating this exciting campaign after TECNO’s rise in the Philippines in recent years. Today we are not just launching a marketing campaign but creating something that deeply resonates with the essence of Filipinos, establishing an emotional connection with them and giving them a strong voice-out about their inspiring ‘Never Not Ready’ attitude to life.”

Indeed, positioned at the forefront of business and innovation in the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines is experiencing rapid economic growth. Simultaneously, the youth in the Philippines are rising to keep pace with the nation’s development, including pursuing higher education to meet global standards. Furthermore, the rising spirit of young Filipinos is to create their own opportunities in life instead of waiting for the perfect chance to find them. This spirit is seamlessly reflected in the daily lives of the local youth – always prepared to seize opportunities, showcasing unlimited potential and creativity.

The stories in the manifesto video are all drawn from the real-life experiences of Filipino youth. Take starring influencer Kush Obusan and CJ Villafuerte’s journeys as examples. Back in her university days, Kush was already active in the fashion industry as a fashion photographer. While her peers were still on campus, preparing for future careers, Kush was ready to pursue her dream. Now, she has become an influential voice in fashion for Gen Z on social media. CJ’s story is equally compelling. His passion and talent for gaming propelled him into the gaming livestream industry, laying the foundation for his subsequent success. Today, he not only livestreams games but also manages ventures in property leasing, restaurants, and skincare. In his words, “In every battle I face in a game, I see it as an opportunity to strive for victory and to rise for a better self, just as I face every day in my life. I am ‘Never Not Ready’ for the daily challenges we encounter.”

The manifesto serves as a prelude to upcoming campaigns and the eagerly awaited 12.12 and Christmas season big promotions in the Philippines. TECNO is set to engage its audience further by encouraging them to share their own “Don’t Stop Rising” stories on social media to win TECNO Xmas Rising Gift Boxes. Additionally, during the offline pop-up store event at SM Mall of Asia from Dec 1 to Dec 21, customers can buy any TECNO Phone and have their Christmas wish granted, while those who visit the pop-up shop, post a social media check-in, can also stand a chance to win big prizes. More TECNO product discounts and freebies will be offered through a series of market activities in the Philippines during this peak season.

The ad “Don’t Stop Rising” is essentially a live representation of the brand’s overall philosophy, which is embodied by the unwavering will to “Stop at Nothing.” It also fits in perfectly with TECNO’s international initiatives, as seen by the company’s previous ad, “Don’t Stop Exploring Life’s New Angles,” which encouraged young people in India to discover their genuine passions. Taken as a whole, these programs embody the spirit of TECNO’s brand, going beyond words to become a driving force in regional operations. In addition to being a source of cutting-edge technology, TECNO is recognized as a major force behind significant advancements and a trailblazer in the development of tools that help young people throughout the world realize their full potential.

Please visit TECNO’s official site: www.tecno-mobile.com

Lifestyle, News

This international corporation converted plastic garbage into a green health facility, this is how


P&G Philippines, Habitat for Humanity Philippines, and Pastrana, Leyte LGU officials attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony during the turnover of the eco-friendly health centers.

In Pastrana, Leyte, Procter & Gamble (P&G) Philippines, the nation’s top producer of hygiene and health products for consumers, is building an environmentally friendly community health center and birthing facility in collaboration with Habitat for Humanity Philippines. Notably, the facility represents a major step towards sustainability as it is primarily constructed from retrieved plastic trash.

Community Partnerships in Pastrana, Leyte

Pastrana, surrounded by coconut plantations and rice fields, is going through a significant change in terms of sanitation and healthcare. The health center is an outward manifestation of the municipality’s active embrace of sustainable development, which is being backed by the corporate sector and non-governmental organizations.

P&G and Habitat Philippines have been working together to create sustainable communities since 2017. P&G’s significant community involvement in Leyte, which includes the building of this health facility with the goal of improving access to basic healthcare services for low-income families, has been made possible thanks in large part to the solid cooperation.

In August 2023, a local project management team, comprising community members, barangay leaders, the local government of Pastrana, and the regional Department of Health (DOH) representatives came together to ensure that the health center would not only meet but exceed DOH standards for healthcare facilities. This eco-friendly health center project will serve approximately 1,100 individuals, catering to their basic healthcare needs and giving access to proper pre and post-natal care for mothers.

Innovative Construction: The Science behind the Health Center

At the core of this health center is an innovative and sustainable approach— the use of eco-casts. Manufactured from single-use plastics collected by the Habitat community in Kawayanville, Tacloban City, these recycled materials were used in the health center’s construction.

The process involves shredding plastic waste and combining it with aggregates, including sand, gravel, cement, additives, and water. The mixture is then pressed and molded using a specialized machine, followed by a seven-day drying and curing process.

Particularly, the eco-cast outperforms concrete hollow blocks in quality, providing higher thermal insulation and exceptional fire resistance (179 minutes or 3 hours). It is more compact and sturdier, with a strength recording of 700 psi, more than 4 times higher than the 150 psi of hollow blocks, ensuring a robust building.

Sustaining Long-Term Health Impact

Habitat for Humanity Philippines’ current focus is on sustaining the health center’s functionality. In collaboration with the local government unit of Pastrana and the regional DOH office, it provided Basic Health Training for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), empowering them to independently maintain the health center.

Marilyn Estrellado, Programs and Operations Director of Habitat for Humanity Philippines shared, “The trained BHWs from the community will help man the facility, augmenting the capacity of health professionals provided by the LGU and DOH. We also appreciate Pastrana LGU and the DOH’s commitment to providing constant medical supplies, manpower, and proper maintenance of the health center to ensure improved access to quality health care and services for the community members in need.”

In the areas where it conducts business, P&G has dedicated itself to becoming a Force for Good and a Force for Growth. To better the lives of about 2,000 people in Barangay Baganihan, P&G and Habitat Philippines constructed their first health facility in Marilog, Davao in April 2021. The center offers a full health and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) program. In 2024, another environmentally friendly health facility is scheduled to open in Sterling Park, Caloocan, Metro Manila, with an emphasis on providing assistance to 1,500 people living in informal settlements.

Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and information about P&G and its brands.