We Filipinos have the longest celebration of Christmas, we celebrate it from September to December and start the Christmas festivity by putting lanterns and splendid decorations everywhere. We’re also fond of shopping to serve as a gift for our loved ones. Indeed, a lot of activities are there for us to do. And SM Malls never disappoint in serving the Filipinos a grant celebration of Christmas. They cater all our needs with the grocery needs, supplements, entertainment, gift ideas and many more.
At SM Christmas Saya Village, you may explore, shop, and win. Despite the fact that online shopping has grown more accessible as a result of the internet, we still miss the sensation of being physically present at SM Malls. With this in mind, SM has launched the SM Christmas Saya Village, which makes shopping and dining considerably safer, more convenient, and enjoyable! Join this fun tech experience where you can play and create your own avatar to immerse yourself in a virtual Christmas zone at SM– from dining and shopping to exquisite Christmas centerpieces and a fun play area! Register online at smchristmasayavillage.ph or through SM Supermalls’ Facebook page.
Christmas has been re-imagined. From November 5 to January 6, SM has redefined safe bonding experiences with sparkling indoor and outdoor attractions that allow for picture-perfect shopping and dining activities for the entire family to help reignite and uplift the hearts and spirits of Filipinos. There will be Christmas markets, parks, and towns, as well as Santa appearances, character meet-and-greets, Christmas medleys, stunning firework displays, and drone performances, as well as other surprises. You can also expect an online Simbang Gabi via SM Supermalls’ official Facebook page at https://facebook.com/smsupermalls/, which you can attend with your loved ones.
Purchase a pair of Bears of Joy to spread the holiday spirit of generosity. One bear will be kept by the customer, while the other will be donated to the children of SOS Children’s Villages. Simply visit the Bears of Joy booth at the Food Street Concourse till December 25 to acquire a pair for only P250.
Be amazed also as they unveiled their first ever experiential Christmas centerpiece. A walkway leads to and reveals the mystique of a secret garden, which is surrounded by a plethora of trees of various sizes. A 35-foot towering Christmas tree covered with blossoms and thousands of shimmering lights sits at the middle of the centerpiece, surrounded by gigantic exquisite reindeer. At the mall’s Food Street Concourse, be transported to a Secret Christmas Garden. It is just one of the exciting treats for us. Every SM mall has its own display and designs that will make us enjoy the presence of Christmas.
You can really enjoy and feel the season by their gigantic Christmas tree and colorful lanterns and designs. It is a picturesque scenery everywhere in SM Malls, as they celebrate it with Filipinos every year. SM Malls are not just best for its shopping experiences, it’s also undeniably true in creating memorable moments that everyone will surely treasure.
SM City North EDSA
As I visited SM City North Edsa, it is my favorite since it is highly accessible in my part and they satisfy my shopping experience. I am also fond of this place because of all the wonderful experiences I had especially during the Christmas season. Although this pandemic stopped us from performing our usual errands during the holiday season, in SM malls they make sure that they follow a strict protocol and guidelines to maintain the safety of its customers. It is true to its #SafeMallingAtSM in all the SM malls.
SM Southmall
SM Megamall
SM City Bacolod
SM City Butuan
SM CDO Downtown Premier
So come and enjoy the SM malls, experience a wonderful present given by them. As they also have many more exciting deals to its shoppers that will make our Christmas even merrier. This year’s Christmas may be celebrated differently, but the spirit will remain the same! Keep up with all of the holiday activities and events taking place. For additional information, go to @SMmall on Facebook and Instagram.
Many Filipinos’ lifestyles were transformed as a result of the financial burden brought on by the worldwide health pandemic. Many people have lost their employment in the nearly two years after the global COVID-19 pandemic began, and they have had to make due with whatever money they have.
More than half of Filipinos named boosting their savings as one of their top priorities when it comes to personal finance, according to a study titled “State of Banking and Financial Wellness” commissioned by US-based research firm Forrester.
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.
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 Pardo, 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.
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.
“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.
Maria Luisa Luna, a 64-year-old, garbage collector from Manila relied on her micro savings account when the pandemic badly hit her family.
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.
“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.
Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings gives you more IPON POWER by allowing you to withdraw cash from over 21,000+ BancNet ATMs nationwide at any time; shop online with UnionPay merchants around the world; have 24/7 unlimited banking access with the eCebuana app; and make cashless payments in over 350,000 UnionPay and BancNet accredited stores nationwide.
With more Filipinos gradually appreciating the importance of saving, Cebuana Lhuillier Micro Savings is working to improve its features so that account holders have a reliable partner they can rely on at all times.
Did you guys know that only 53% of the adult population saves, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ 2019 Financial Inclusion Survey? This outcome is as frightening as it sounds. As a result, the significance of saving money should be highlighted more frequently.
In our zoom meeting, luckily, I was invited, I am so delighted to learn and have insightful knowledge about saving. There it gives us ideas on how we can save and how important saving is. Things that I learned during the session is that we have a lot of things that need to prioritize and that we must also include savings as a priority. Also, I realized that I have to control my impulses to do my saving act well. Little by little we can make a change and have better security for ourselves. At my age right now saving money is also a form of investment because at the end of the day I can use this with all my future needs and endeavors.
World Savings Day is a day set aside for financial institutions, both governmental and commercial, as well as financial activists, to come together to promote saving mobilization. The concept is simple: saving is for all Juans!
Here are some more reasons to learn how to save money:
To achieve financial freedom
The ultimate goal for people who are financially knowledgeable is to achieve total financial independence, where you will never have to worry about your finances again. This is only possible if you manage your finances well.
To be ready in the event of an emergency
Unexpected expenses, such as car repairs, job loss, or family medical issues, necessitate the establishment of an emergency fund. Your savings may be sufficient to meet the amount required for the unforeseen expenses, ensuring that you do not go into debt.
To achieve a financial and/or personal goal
Saving money allows you to fulfill all of your financial and personal objectives. You can never buy and invest in a house and lot or a start-up business without appropriate savings. You’ll need to save money in order to afford a larger down payment on a home. A new car or a trip overseas are examples of personal milestones.
Not to miss out on a chance
Life presents us with opportunities that may or may not be financially rewarding. A seat sale to your favorite location, a pre-sale house and lot within your budget, a new stock in the IPO stage, or even a new company idea are all examples of opportunities. Your money could be used as a start-up fund. Keep in mind that the more money you have, the more possibilities you’ll have.
Especially in all the crises that we’re facing there’s a lot more reasons why people must save. As we face difficulties and unforeseen circumstances, we can’t predict what will happen in the future. We might lose our jobs and or face a financial crisis or health related issues and as for that we can lean on the amount we kept from our savings.
One of the most essential financial lessons we’ve learned from the current pandemic crisis is the need to save money. Emergencies do occur, and those who have not budgeted for them will find themselves worried about how to make ends meet. The pandemic also provided people with newfound leisure to pursue their side hustles for extra cash. People are becoming bakers, internet sellers, and vloggers, and firms in the health supply industry, such as masks, are expanding. When you undertake a general home cleaning, this is also a good time to sell any unused stuff you have. Finally, for individuals who work in an office, the shift to online school implies further savings for lunch and transportation.
How much you can save is mostly determined by your salary. Perhaps you’re considering a savings target that’s higher than what you’re getting paid. If you want to save more money, you should raise your salary and look for alternative ways to supplement your income. The more money you earn, the more money you should save, not the other way around. Consider it a never-ending wealth loop.
Saving is much more convenient thanks to Cebuana Lhuillier. As they changed their 24k Micro Savings Card to a normal Savings Card with all the perks of an ATM, minus the exorbitant startup deposit and daily maintenance balance requirements, which may deter most wage-earners like me.
According to Ms Lorna Z Teczon, Cebuana Lhuillier Bank’s Head of Digital Banking and Strategic Alliances, “This is as easy as depositing a minimum of P50 to open an account or P1 to reactivate a dormant account, and you can, with a minimal or zero fees, send, receive, save money with interest and withdraw from nearby Cebuana Lhuillier branches and BancNet ATMs.”
Saving is introduced to regular people, freelancers, and youngsters by making banking accessible not only to wage earners, but also to those who don’t, can’t, or haven’t experienced opening a bank account due to prohibitive restrictions.
This convenience is enough to persuade people to start saving without worry of becoming caught in bureaucracy or being turned off by commercial banking jargon.
So, what are you waiting for to make a better future and secure a means for yourself by saving money. As we commemorate World Savings Day it gives us an idea on how it is really important to us.
Today, October 20, a teleconsult website that claims to make medical consultations simple and convenient for many Filipinos was launched. As I attended the virtual event that they conducted, I learned so much from their vision to help and give knowledge to other people. Giving also this convenient consultation it aims to reach more the unserved and be guided properly.
QURE.ph, a website created entirely by Filipinos, offers a platform for online video consultations, connects doctors and patients for convenient appointment booking, and provides a directory of pharmacies and other health and wellness services. In response to the growing demand for virtual consultations, QURE.ph provides a free platform for doctors who want to expand their services via teleconsult.
“We created this platform with the Filipino patient in mind. It’s a simple website and it does not complicate the teleconsultation process. Even those not comfortable with technology will find these consultations easy to do. This is our new normal and QURE is here to help you navigate the future of healthcare,” said Gary Libby, QURE Chief Technology Officer.
A trip to the hospital may also be burdensome these days, as the COVID pandemic persists. QURE will help Filipinos find their way through this public health crisis while keeping their health in check.
“This will definitely benefit doctors and patients. No more overbooking for doctors, and no more long lines for patients waiting for their turn at clinics. Whether via teleconsult or face-to-face check-ups, the scheduling system of QURE helps both patients and doctors,” Libby added.
Andrea Trinidad
Andrea Trinidad, Chief Executive Officer of QURE, said the idea of the teleconsult platform started last year when the lockdowns extended and it became difficult for patients to see their doctors.
Trinidad, who has a life-long disorder called hemophilia and is the president Hemophilia Advocates-Philippines, said the pandemic really affected patients.
“When I was approached by my friends last year and they shared with me their idea of a telemedicine platform, I told them it was brilliant. We envision QURE to be an e-mall of health services where you can book consults, buy medicines, book laboratory appointments and even book a consult with the veterinarian for your fur babies,” she added.
More to know about QURE:
1.The platform is data-safe, both for patients and doctors. Registering is FREE for patients and doctors. Consultation fees range from P500 to P1,500, depending on doctor’s specialization. But for its introductory price, QURE is offering a 50 percent discount for consultations.
2.Registered users can look for doctors for their tele-consult. Specialists have expertise on:
Cardiology; General Surgery; Obstetrics and Gynecology; Integrative General Medicine; Internal Medicine, Dermatology; Otolaryngology (ENT); ENT Specialist Head & Neck Surgery; Psychiatry-Adult; Physical Medicine/Rehab; Pediatrics; Allergy & Asthma, Immunologist; Urology; Sleep Medicine/Insomnia; Ophthalmology; Family & Occupational Medicine; Cardiology; Pediatrics-Pulmonology; Family Medicine; Lifestyle Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery and Hematology/Oncology.
Also in QURE’s pool of experts: Nutritionist Dietician; General Dentistry/Orthodontics; Dentistry/Prosthetic and Esthetic;
3.The website lets you know who is online.
Is the doctor in? No need to guess or call the doctor’s secretary. Through the QURE website, you can easily see if the doctor is available to take consultations.
4.Find doctors in your area or teleconsult with a specialist anywhere in the Philippines
QURE has a growing number of specialists from all over the country. The drop-down menu on the website shows that many doctors have already signed up. Many more are joining QURE in the following weeks.
5.It’s a growing health and wellness community.
In the coming months, expect more health and wellness features. You will also soon see reviews of doctors done by patients themselves.
A project by Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP), the mobile kitchen jeepney has a fully-functioning kitchen working to feed 500 individuals everyday
In partnership of the private sector program Kain Tayo Pilipinas, international aid organization Rise Against Hunger Philippines established a mobile kitchen jeepney, mobilizing additional resources to reduce hunger in the Philippines. Take Action Against Hunger PH and Kain Tayo Pilipinas join together to change how businesses and organizations may help communities in need by developing a model that can be readily replicated and sustained. The mobile kitchen is equipped with a fully functional kitchen that can serve up to 6,000 meals each month as a step toward eliminating hunger and malnutrition. Architect Deo Alam designed the mobile kitchen in the shape of a jeepney, which contains a modern rendition of the Filipino mythical bird Sarimanok, whose beak corresponds to giving food to the people.
“We are grateful for the unwavering commitment of our partner organizations who continuously supported us to address the root of the nation’s concern on involuntary hunger including: challenges on food production, food distribution and accessibility. We hope through mobilizing the first mobile jeepney kitchen, we can encourage more organizations to provide aid to more Filipinos especially during this time of crises.” said Rise Against Hunger Philippines Executive Director, Jomar Fleras.
Together with representatives from both organizations, and in collaboration with the Local Council of Women, the mobile kitchen officially rolls out its operations at Barangay Rosario, Pasig City where it will be serving lunch-time meals. Throughout the course of the project, mobile kitchens and food banks will be stationed in different barangays across cities of Pasig, Taguig, and Manila thrice a week every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The program aims to prepare 500 meals for every individual everyday with its mission to address the nutritionally at risk Filipinos.
The mobile kitchen was launched at Pasig Elementary School on September 30, with 100 of the city’s jeepney drivers and their families invited as guests. Apart from the food from the kitchen, they also received free vaccinations through a donation from San Miguel Foundation.
Together with the other private sector organizations, Rise Against Hunger Philippines appeals to the Filipino communities, organizations to join the program to provide more mobile jeepney kitchens to be made available to reach more communities in the country.
The private sector, in collaboration with non-government organizations (NGOs) and government partners, launched Kain Tayo Pilipinas, the flagship program of Pilipinas Kontra Gutom, a multi sectoral movement behind Task Force Zero Hunger which aims to eradicate hunger in the country. Kain Tayo Pilipinas is an initiative that invites everyone including the public to help feed more Filipino children and equip families with nutrition information to help alleviate malnutrition especially amongst children 5 years and below.
The three-fold approach of feeding, education and collaboration guides the program in being able to holistically address the issue of hunger and malnutrition in the country. The feeding programs of the various organizations will be complemented by an education program to ensure that families are equipped to sustainably provide nutritious meals for everyone in the household.
Contact us at [email protected] if your company or group wants to help eradicate hunger and malnutrition in the Philippines.
The SM brand is one of the true entrepreneurial success stories in the country and because of this, the conglomerate recently launched the SM Startup Package to help enterprising Pinoys realize their potential of being successful entrepreneurs themselves by setting up shop in any of the prime SM mall locations, within 13 regional and premier malls, around the Philippines. The SM Startup Package offers friendly rental rates and use of kiosks or carts free of charge; marketing assistance is provided to give the brand free exposure in SM online assets and ad spaces inside the malls; financial assistance with BDO; and mentorship from SM experts on operations and marketing.
New opportunities will be given by SM Supermalls as they discuss their plans and ideas to us during our webinar event. I was astonished at how they work hard to help our aspiring entrepreneurs continue their endeavors even during these hard times. It’s been over two years since the pandemic halted life and many livelihoods in the Philippines. During the peak of the COVID-19 outbreak, 70.6 percent of 1,804 Philippine MSMEs were forced to temporarily close, with 66.2 percent reporting temporary workforce layoffs, according to a 2020 Asian Development Bank (ADB) research.
Taken during SM StartUo Package Webinar
Despite these numbers and the challenges posed by the changing landscape, the industrious Filipino discovered many chances in online enterprises, with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recording over 88,000 new e-commerce registrations by the end of 2020. By 2022, the number of e-commerce businesses is expected to reach a million (from 500,000 in 2020). MSME owners have become unsung heroes of the economy by utilizing the online arena, all while providing for their family and realizing their business aspirations.
SM Supermalls very well understands the potential of each Filipino to be successful business owners because of their founder, the late Mr. Henry Sy’s own inspiring story. Sy, fondly called “Tatang” in SM, started out as a small business owner with his first footwear shop ShoeMart.
It is said that because of this, it is in SM’s DNA to enable and inspire small businesses like the one it once was. This October 15, not coincidentally Tatang’s birthday, SM launched The SM StartUp Package, which aims to provide small online businesses the valuable support they need so they can set up their own shop in an SM mall. This is available to the first 100 digital-based MSME owners who currently don’t have a shop inside SM or any other physical store in general.
The package offers features such as start-up friendly rental rates and use of kiosks or carts free of charge; marketing assistance to give the brand free exposure in SM online assets and ad spaces inside malls; financial assistance with BDO; and mentorship from SM experts on operations and marketing.
The Start Up Markets, as they will be called, will be situated in prime mall locations within 13 regional and premier malls in major cities: SM North Edsa, SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM Southmall, SM Pampanga, SM Clark, SM Grand Central, SM Sta. Rosa, SM City Cebu, SM Iloilo, SM Bacolod, SM CDO Downtown Premier, and SM Lanang Premier.
“We created The SM StartUp Package because we saw how Filipinos persevered in the past year. Very much true to the spirit of Henry Sy, who always said he worked harder during bad times, many MSMEs did not let the pandemic stop them from providing good service and products — even from their own homes. We want to give them a chance to further grow their businesses and brands, and enable them to start their own SM shops which they can one day grow into business empires, just like our founder once did.,” said SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan.
Following Tatang’s legacy
The late founder Mr. Henry Sy is also proof of an entrepreneur’s resilience and hard work. After arriving in the Philippines at just 12 years old from China, he helped sell products in his father’s retail store. When he saved enough money, he was able to open his first business in 1958: a footwear shop called ShoeMart, which would later become the foundation for today’s 77 SM Supermalls.
The success of the mall didn’t come without challenges. A notable one was when Mr. Sy opened SM Megamall in Edsa in 1985 during a turbulent time in the Philippines. Instead of letting the political and economic climate discourage him, it pushed him to work harder to overcome the crisis. This disposition would carry over in the next few decades and would inspire a new generation of MSME owners to look for opportunities even during adversity.
This is evident in the stories of entrepreneurs like Chizmozza founder Hannah Ramos, who sold her own mozzarella recipe online before opening her food cart at SM, Ian Darcy, who started his namesake fragrance brand after being forced to resign from his marketing job; and Oishii Maki chef Ramon Molina, who started a sushi and maki business at SM after working as an Overseas Filipino as a Japanese Chef in 5-star hotels.
Starting with just one humble ChizMozza cart in SM North Edsa in 2016, the small business has steadily grown and now has a total of 21 branches, situated in various SM malls, nationwide. Seen in the photo is ChizMozza founder, Hannah Ramos – a true believer in the entrepreneurial spirit of Filipinos, as well as how SM continues to help entrepreneurs like her become even more successful with the recent launch of its SM Startup Package.
“I took a chance to grow Chizmozza from an online store to having one humble food cart in SM North Edsa back in 2016. Now Chizmozza has 21 SM branches. They saw the potential of our unique cheese products and through our mutual hard work and perseverance, we grew, even through the pandemic.” Hannah shared
These are just some of the stories behind successful MSME owners and how they were able to succeed, when empowered with the right resources. The SM StartUp Package will allow more people to level up their online start-up, inspiring them to follow in the footsteps of “Tatang” so they can take more confident steps even during these uncertain times.
SM Supermalls President Mr. Steven Tan was attended by three young successful MSMEs, Nina Cabrera from Colourette, Patty Ang from Patton, and Jerald Sze from 365 Designs Retailing, during the virtual launch of the SM StartUp Package hosted by Sam Yg last Oct 15, who talked about how their businesses started online and how they successfully grew them at SM Supermalls.
Other notable guests during the launch included Ms. Jean Pacheco, Assistant Secretary of DTI, and the SM Super Team composed of BDO Network Bank’s SVP and MSME Business Head Karen Cua, BDO Acquiring FVP Merchant Partnerships and Retail Sales Head Bob Tolentino, SM Supermalls VP for Corporate Marketing, Grace F. Magno, and AVP for Leasing Strategy and Operations, Gina T. Katigbak, who discussed details of the SM StartUp Package.
For more information on how to join up for The SM StartUp Package, go to www.smsupermalls.com or follow @smsupermalls on all social media sites.
About SM Supermalls
Starting as a humble shoe store in Manila established by its founder Henry Sy Sr. in 1958, SM has grown into the Philippines’ biggest chain of shopping malls. With its 74 malls in the Philippines, and 7 in China, SM Supermalls is now home to over 20,000 tenants, most of which carry the world’s best loved brands. It is the retail destination for family fun experiences and events.
SM Supermalls is owned by SM Prime Holdings, Inc., a publicly-listed company and is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia.
Smile Train, the world’s foremost cleft charity, started the #KayGandaNgBawatNgiti campaign in the Philippines, inviting Filipinos to commemorate World Smile Day® on October 1st with the #KayGandaNgBawatNgiti campaign. World Smile Day®, which takes place every year on the first Friday in October, is a day dedicated to inspiring people all over the world to commit acts of kindness.
Smile Train Philippines centralized the campaign with #KayGandaNgBawatNgiti, which encourages the public for cleft-affected individuals, capture the beauty of all kinds of smiles, and help alleviate discrimination against those born with a cleft or other birth differences, in line with Smile Train’s global message “All Smiles are Beautiful.”
“Smile Train strives to give individuals born with a cleft their forever smiles and brighter futures. With the help of all our partner hospitals and medical professionals, we can truly make a difference to create more smiles and second chances at life,” said Vice President, Smile Train South East Asia, Kimmy Coseteng-Flaviano.
Art for Smiles
Ica Narvaez
In celebration of this year’s World Smile Day®, Ica Narvaez, a local artist, partnered with Smile Train Philippines to raise funds for cleft-affected individuals in need of lifesaving surgery and care through an online auction of her work. As a long-time supporter of Smile Train, Ica created artworks inspired by Smile Train beneficiaries and their families.
“I worked briefly with the organization before and witnessed firsthand how their organization makes a difference in the lives of children. I have personally met beneficiaries of their program and saw the impact of a cleft lip and palate surgery,” shared Narvaez. “I wanted to do this auction to help children receive the desperate care they need. ” One of the pieces, “Flowers for Smiles”, is an abstract painting in acrylic. Each artwork’s bid begins at PhP13,000.
Coming from a family of artists, Ica grew up surrounded by different forms of creativity. However, during the pandemic, Ica realized she can combine her passion for art and community development to make a difference. Ica now aims to create inspirational work and art that calls for community action. “If people purchase my work for Smile Train, the result will be countless smiles for these children,” she shared.
As Smile Train works toward helping individuals born with a cleft smile confidently, it is no secret that many cleft-affected individuals still experience discrimination for their appearance. In honor of National Bullying Prevention Month which also coincides this October, Smile Train is taking the opportunity to bring this issue to light by hosting a Facebook Live discussion on bullying, mental health and well-being medical experts and beneficiaries, happening on October 29 at 4:00PM on Smile Train Philippine’s Facebook page.
The focus of the virtual discussion will be on how victims of bullying respond and cope with the consequences, as well as how Smile Train may help promote acceptance among all children. Menchie Silvestre, Executive Director of Alagang Kapatid Foundation, will moderate the discussion, which will feature the following speakers and guests: Dr. Edmund Mercado, Plastic Surgeon from Marikina St. Vincent Hospital; Dr. Arsenio “Boboy” Alianan, Professor from the Department of Psychology, Ateneo De Manila University; Joana Mariz Julian, who was born with a cleft; and Maricel Teylan, mother of a cleft.
Visit smiletrain.org to celebrate smiles, learn more about Smile Train’s global initiatives, and make a gift. Visit smiletrain.ph/get-help to learn more about Smile Train’s local programs in the Philippines and to refer a patient in need. Smile Train Philippines can be found on Instagram as @SmileTrainPh, and on Facebook as @SmileTrainPhilippines.
Filipinos are losing their life, their means of subsistence, and their aspirations. What more proof do we need that the respect they deserve from their leaders has been sporadic at best, and non-existent at worst? What other fact can possibly persuade us that what is happening in our country must come to an end? What should we scream and what should we do to get our country back on track?
We are on the verge of having to take action and not wait any longer, lest our country’s health system collapse and drag down everything else that has health effects, including our economy, social order and security, education, national growth and development, and our ability to compete in the future. Our weak and unstable health system is corroded and destroyed by the constant and sustained assault. It is such an interesting avenue to learn something new from the zoom meeting I attended. We all know how our country faces this global pandemic and how our government responded to it. We saw many unwanted approaches that all of a sudden changed our different perspectives. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn so much from the zoom conference; I now have a better understanding of the challenges and obstacles that our medical workers face, as well as their demands from our government.
We cannot – and must not – allow this to continue!
Guided by our Code of Conduct, we, the members of the health profession and the health sector of the Philippines, have endeavored to remain true to our mandate to attend to the health needs of the nation without regard for politics. But no other phenomenon in history than this Covid-19 global pandemic has opened our eyes and minds wider to the vulnerability and folly of this long-standing passivity. It has left free and unrestrained politicians and people with absolutely no competence in running the country, much less this catastrophic health debacle, to abuse power with impunity, misuse and steal taxpayers’ money and insult their intelligence, feed on the Filipinos’ desperation and helplessness at the time when their plea for true leadership is loudest but has remained unheeded.
Exposed and battered beyond any doubt in the past 18 months of the global pandemic, our broken health systems need to be overhauled and invested upon with huge financial resources and human expertise in both science and technology, and the political will of our top leaders to get things done quickly. Instead, the global pandemic has brought to bear on the Filipino people not only the contagion of, and deaths from, Covid-19 but worse, the incompetence, insensitivity and corruption of no less than those who are supposed to lead and protect them. Unmitigated and shameless greed is being flaunted to our faces!
The corruption and the total disregard for decency and morality have begun to permeate the Filipino soul. This is NOT who we are, but this is what we are going to be unless we do something about it NOW. Impunity has become the norm; the culture that our offspring will imbibe in the years to come is there for all of us to dread. The so-called leaders, voted into office ‘without thinking’, have no more shame – brazen, avaricious, sugapa, with no regard for how the nation would survive! They actually believe that they can go on and on with this delusion of irreproachable power, reflected from their leader who they will eventually dump when the time comes.
We shout out our indignation and intolerance to what is happening! We will no longer compromise the truth for what we have been conditioned to believe to be true but clearly isn’t, we shall not go down the slippery slope of decay as a nation. We are already down on the ground, made worse by the fear, helplessness and hopelessness that can paralyze us into inaction.
We cannot go on fighting for every Filipino’s life and health if we cannot work together – because we are afraid, because we are severely handicapped, because we are in pain – physically and psychologically, because our numbers are dwindling. If we say and do nothing, and just accept that our nation’s health will
remain in the hands of people who care not for our country but for themselves, then what are we here for?
Who are we?
We are the leaders of the health profession and the health sector. As we look beyond our individual comforts and interests, we aspire to fight for order, decency and integrity in government, and commit to take collective action against poor governance and impropriety in the health sector for the sake of our patients, our colleagues, our families and children, the doctors, nurses and nurse assistants at the frontlines, the medical technologists in the laboratories, and for our own sake. We avow to initiate and execute within our respective professional organizations appropriate collective action toward this end.
For love of country, our Philippines, we are affixing our signatures as expression of our indignation, raising our voice to ensure that we are heard, and expressing our readiness to take a stand against whoever and whatever would dare frustrate the Filipinos’ call for good governance, and deprive them access to decent healthcare and the right to aspire for a healthy life! We are asserting the call to change and render accountable the people who are responsible for the abuse, misuse and theft of the people’s money for their own benefit at the worst time when the citizens’ lives are at stake!
We support the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee in its investigation to seek the truth and crush corruption that has severely crippled our society. Public office is a public trust. Public officials should be accountable to the people; they should serve them with utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency; they should act with patriotism and justice, and lead modest lives.
We do not and cannot expect anything less.
(SGD)
Past Presidents and Leaders of Medical Societies
Dr. Manuel Dayrit
Former Secretary, Department of Health
Dr. Enrique T. Ona
Former Secretary, Department of Health
Dr. Carmencita Reodica
Former Secretary, Department of Health
Dr. Susie Pineda Mercado
Former Undersecretary, Department of Health
Dr. Madeleine de Rosas-Valera
Former Undersecretary, Department of Health
Dr. Juan Maria Pablo Nanagas
Former Undersecretary, Department of Health
Dr. Augusto D. Litonjua
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Tito P. Torralba
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Esperanza A. Icasas-Cabral
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Abdias V. Aquino
Past President, Philippine College of Physician
Dr. Dante D. Morales
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Vicente V. Tanseco Jr.
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Marcelito L. Durante
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians and Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Antonio H. Villalon
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Rene I. Juaneza
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Charles Y. Yu
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Eugenio Jose R. Ramos
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Norbert Lingling D. Uy
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Oscar T. Cabahug
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Priscilla B. Caguioa
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Anthony C. Leachon
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Nenita Avena-Collantes
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Kenneth Hartigan-Go
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Maria Gina C. Nazareth
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Mario M. Panaligan
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Minguita Padilla
Chair, Eye Bank Foundation of the Philippines
Dr. Albert A. Atillano
Past President, Philippine Society of Hypertension
Dr. Saturnino P. Javier
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Nelson S. Abelardo
Past President, Philippine Society of Hypertension
Dr. Cesar S. Recto
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Orlando Bugarin
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Lynn A. Gomez
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology Philippine Society of Hypertension
Dr. Rafael R. Castillo
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Antonio Sibulo
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Adriel E. Guerrero
President, Philippine Lipid and Arteriosclerosis Society
Dr. Ma. Belen O. Carisma
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Carolyn R. Narvacan-Montano
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians- Southern Luzon Chapter
Dr. Raul L. Lapitan
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Edgardo Ortiz
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Edgardo F. Faustino
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians- Southern Luzon Chapter
Dr. Jorge A. Sison
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Efren R. Vicaldo
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Francisco Y. Arcellana Jr
Past president of Philippine College of Surgeons
Dr. Nannette R. Rey
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Manuel T. Chua Chiaco Jr.
Former Director, Philippine Heart Center
Dr. Walfrido Sumpaico
Past President, Philippine Obstetrics and Gynecological Society
Dr. Jasmin R. Igama
Co-Chair, Committee on External Relations Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Romeo D. Saavedra
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Aurelia Leus
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Rosalio P. Torres
Past President, Philippine College of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine
Dr. Benjamin Alimurung
Former Medical Director, Makati Medical Center
Dr. Leilani Mercado-Asis
Past President, Philippine Society of Hypertension
Dr. Louie C. Racelis
Past President, Academy of Filipino Neurosurgeons
Dr. Alex T. Junia
Past President, Philippine Heart Association
Dr. Beatrice J. Tiangco
Past President, Philippine Society of Medical Oncology
Dr. Eleanor A. Jara
Co-convenor, Solidarity of Health Advocates and Personnel with a Unified Plan to defeat COVID-19 (SHAPE UP)
Dr. Conrado Gabriel C. Lorenzo III Makati Medical Center
Dr. June Pagaduan Lopez Philippine Psychiatry Association
Dr. Carmela Bingcan
Current President, Philippine Society of Blood and Marrow Transplant
Dr. Elizabeth Arcellana-Nuqui
Past President, Philippine Society of Oncologists
Dr. Ma. Angelina L. Mirasol
Past President, Philippine College of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine
Patricia Mines Gomez, RM, MCHS Executive Director, Integrated Midwives Association of the Philippines Inc.
Dr. Rafael S. Claudio
Past President, Philippine Society of Oncologists
Dr Dina C. Gonzales
Past president, Philippine Society of Gastroenterology
Dr. Josephine B. Ramos
Past President, Philippine College of Chest Physicians
Dr. Mark Anthony A. de Lusong
Past President, Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy
Dr. Marvin D. Basco
Past president of Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy
Dr. Dennis A. Ona
Past President, Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy
Dr. Benjamin Gerardo A. Perez
Past President, Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy
Dr. Marie Michelle S. Cloa
Past President, Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy
Dr. Buenaventura C. Ramos, Jr.
President, Philippine Society of Medical Oncology
Dr Lyra Ruth Chua
Past President, Philippine Obstetrics and Gynecological Society
Dr. Julieta L. Gopez-Cervantes
Gastroenterologist
Dr. Marysia T. Recto
Past President, Philippine Society of Allergy Asthma and immunology
Dr. Julius C. Co-Soriano
President, Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy
Dr. Ma. Carmela Kasala
Past President, Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology
Dr. Catherine SC. Teh
President Philippine Association of HPB Surgeons
Dr. Patricia P. Prodigalidad
ENT, Makati Medical Center
Dr. Aileen Rosel Santos
Ways and Means Member, Kilusang Kontra Covid (KilKoVid)
Dr Ester S. Bitanga
Past President, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Agnes A. Alarilla-Alba
President, Pediatric Nephrology Society of the Philippines
Dr. Roberto C. Mirasol
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Roberto N. de Guzman, Jr
Past President of the Hepatology Society of the Philippines
Dr. Mia C. Fojas
Past President, Phil Society of Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Virginia Irene R. Santos, FPPS COVID VACC Team, RID 3780
Dr. Eduardo R. Gatchalian
Past President Philippine College of Surgeons
Dr. Lorenzo Angelo R. Santos
UST, 2nd year Residents, Department of Ophtha
Dr. Jerry H. Santos, FPUA Member, UAU
Dr Olimpia Malanyaon
President, Society of Pediatric Cardiovascular Imaging of the Philippines
Dr. Cynthia Cuayo Juico
Philippine Pediatric Society
Dr. Mario Joselito M. Juco
Past President, Philippine College of Chest Physicians
Dr. Jose Vicente T. Prodigalidad
Makati Medical Center
Dr. Victor B. Lopez
Ophthalmology
Dr. Jeremy Jones F. Robles
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Marceliano T. Aquino Jr.
Past President, Philippine Society of Gastroenterology
Dr Manuel Francisco Roxas
Past President, Philippine Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons
Dr. Armando C. Crisostomo
Past President, Philippine College of Surgeons
Dr. Alberto Roxas
Past President, Philippine College of Surgeons
Dr. Michael L. Villa
President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Cynthia Halili-Manabat
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Generoso T. Abes
Past President, Philippine Society Otorhinolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery Professor Emeritus,
UP College of Medicine
Dr. Joselynn Añel-Quimpo
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Rosa Allyn G. Sy
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Gabriel V. Jasul
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Mary Ann Lim-Abrahan
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Cecilia A. Jimeno
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Carlo M. Cornejo
Gastroenterologist, Makati Medical Center
Dr. Pepito E. De la Peña
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Monica Therese Cating-Cabral
Board Member, Philippine Society of
Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Brian Michael I. Cabral
Nephrologist
Dr. Dennis L. Sacdalan
Head, Cancer Care Center, Medical Center Manila
Dr. Ronald V. Romero
Board Director, Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy
Dr. Luisito R. Maaño
Past President, Philippine Orthopedic Association
Dr. Stephen M. Nazareth
Urologist
Makati Medical Center
Dr. Camille Ann C. Abaya
Obstetrics & Gynecology
St Luke’s Medical Center, QC and BGC
Dr. Clarita Cruz Maaño
Past President, Philippine Dermatological Society and Professor Emeritus, UP College of Medicine
Dr. Fe A. Icasas-Inducil
Past President, Bayside Council of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dr. Joseph C. Bocobo
Past President, Philippine Society of Gastroenterology
Dr. Deo Panganiban
President, Phil society if experimental and Clin Pharmacology
Dr. Gerardo B. Paulino
Radiology
Dr. Rudie Frederick B. Mendiola
Past President, Philippine Society of Reproductive Medicine
Dr. Madalinee Eternity D. Labio
Past President, Hepatology Society of the Philippines.
Dr. Laura Trajano-Acampado
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Noel M. Castillo
President, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Patricia Maningat
Endocrinologist
Dr. Antonio R. Paraiso
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Vimar A. Luz
Board of Trustees Member, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Frederick T. Dy
Past President, Philippine Society of Gastroenterology
Dr. Susan Añonuevo-Dela Rama
Past President Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr Arlene Lamban
Nephrologist
Dr. Agnes Torrijos-Cruz
Past President, Diabetes Philippines
Dr. Dolores Bonzon
Past President Philppine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Maria Victoria D. Garcia
President, Philippine College of Physicians, Marikina Chapter
Dr. Marietta C. Olaivar
Past President, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Henry David Nava Dimaano
Orthopedics
Dr. Leorino M. Sobrepena
Chairman, Heart of Jesus Hospital
Dr. Roberto C. Tanchanco
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Elmer M. Garcia
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians, Marikina Chapter
Dr Alberto T. Chua
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Theresa Marie Valdez-Faller
Past President, Alliance of Clinical Endocrinologists Philippines
Dr. Gladys Diaz
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology Southern Tagalog Chapter
Dr. Helen Ocdol
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Maria Rhodora de Lara-Valenzona
President, PCP Southern Luzon Chapter
Dr. Gabriel M Eala
CEO, SPC Medical Center San Pablo City
Dr. Carlo M. Punzalan
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology Southern Tagalog Chapter
Dr. Marie Dione P. Sacdalan
General Surgery, The Medical City and Medical Center Manila.
Dr. Maria Ailsa A. Escobin
Nephrologist, DLSUMC
Dr. Joseph Michael P. Abcede
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology Southern Tagalog Chapter
Dr. Roselmo Doval-Santos
Convenor, HPAAC Open Spaces Coalition
Dr. Benjamin A. Balmores, Jr.
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Lydia A. Villamayor
Fellow, Philippine College of Radiology Fellow, Ultrasound Society of the Philippines
Dr. Elizabeth Angelica L. Roasa
Past President, Phil Society of Nephrology
Dr. Ricardo A. Batac
Past Secretary General, Philippine Medical Association
Past President, PCP Southern Luzon Chapter
Dr. Jaime Jesus D. Rojo
Co-founder and Current Chairman, Subic- Olongapo Cancer Foundation Inc. (SOCFI) Chairman,
Philippine Specialty Board of Medical Oncology (PSBMO)
Dr. Nathaniel E. Agoncillo
Nephrologist
Dr. Rose Marie H. Yu
Nephrologist
Dr. Marizel M. Catungal
Nephrologist
Dr. Gina Santiago Eubanas
Dermatologist, Daniel Mercado Medical Center and St. Cabrini Medical Center
Dr. Sjoberg A. Kho
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Maria Caryl Elejerio
Internist
Dr. Rolando N. Macalalag
Nephrologist
Dr. Ruby T. Go
Past President, Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism
Dr. Jose Eduardo DL. Duya
Internal Medicine – Adult Cardiology Public Health Practioner
Advocate of Preventive Cardiology
Dr. Jesusa O. Bello
Nephrologist
Dr. Grace D. Sabado
Gynecologic Oncologist, Marikina Valley Medical Center
Dr. Ma. Rhowena A. Flores-Florendo
Nephrologist
Dr. Maria Lorna Yap-Wong
Nephrologist
Dr. Clarissa R. Manuel
Marikina Valley Medical Society
Dr. Eugene Tan
Family Medicine
Dr. Jemmer Afable
Surgeon
Dr. Edgardo Noblejas Jr.
Nephrologist
Dr. Loralie EM. Perez-Miranda
Family Medicine
Dr. Christine Joy S. Arquiza, DPBO-HNS, FPSO- HNS
Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
Dr. Jeanne Marie Michel B. Monzon
Nephrologist
Dr. Jed Dumagpi
Fellow, Gastroenterology
Dr Ulysses Dorotheo
Past President, Neuro-Ophthalmology Society of the Philippines
Dr. Patricia C. Prodigalidad
Secretary, Philippine Society of Digestive Endoscopy
Dr. Daniel Ryan C. Castillo
Internal Medicine
Dr. Martin B. Martinez
Consultant Surgeon, National Kidney & Transplant Inst.
Dr. Ofelia Samay-Sy
Past President, Albay Medical Society and PCP-Bicol Chapter
Past Regional Regent, Philippine College of Physicians
Dr. Benwyn B. Rañeses
Internal Medicine
Dr. Nikko Raymundo Fellow,
Gastroenterology
Dr. Jose Gregorio T. Manaig
Internal Medicine
Dr. Junice D. Melgar
Executive Director, Likhaan Center for Women’s Health
Dr. Abundio A. Balgos
Past President, Philippine College of Chest Physicians
Dr. Noel P. Pingoy
President, Philippine College of Physicians, Socsksargen Chapter
Dr. Ricardo D. Isip Jr.
Past Governor, Philippine Medical Association Bicol
Dr. Anna Lynda T. Bellen
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians Bicol Chapter
Dr. Abe Marinduque
President, Philippine Society of Responsible Parenthood
Dr. Delia V. Bayog
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Divina R. Cruz-Ribas
Nephrologist
Dr. Christina Erika L. Basilan
Nephrologist
Dr. Ronnie Perez
Nephrologist
Dr. Randy Abdullah
President, Islamic Medical Association of the Philippines
Dr. Maria Caridad R. Pasno
Nephrologist
Dr. Judith D. Gapasin
Past President, Philippine Society of Gastroenterology
Dr. Raymundo Lo
Former Vice President, Philippine Society of Pathologists Inc.
Dr. Louie S. Tirador
Past President, Philippine Heart Association Panay Chapter
Dr. Daisy King-Ismael
Past President, Philippine Dermatological Society
Dr Albert E. Ismael
Past President, Philippine Society of Gastroenterology
Dr. Ivan N. Villespin
Past President of Philippine College of Chest Physicians
Dr. Anita Jesena
Past President, Philippine Society of Medical Oncology
Dr. Rogelio V. Tangco
Cardiologist, The Medical City
Dr Gerardo Cornelio
Past President, Philippine Society of Medical Oncology
Dr. Giselle Cayton
OB Gyn
Dr. Josefina Isidro-Lapena
Family Medicine, UPPGH
Dr. Higinio T. Mappala
President, Philippine College of Physicians Manila Chapter
Dr. Jose Marcelino Cayton Orthopedic Surgeon
Dr. Jose Florencio F. Lapeña Jr.
Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of the Philippines Charter President, Philippine Association of Medical Journal Editors
Dr. Inocencio P. Alejandro
Past President, Philippine Rheumatology Association
Past Vice President, Philippine College of Geriatric Medicine
Dr. Noemi M. Sarabia
Past Governor, Philippine Medical Association
Dr. Jerome Patrick C. Nazareth Physician
Dr. Leslie Jean B. Egnora
Perpetual Succour Hospital
Dr. Marlon T. Co
Trustee, Philippine Society of Hypertension
Dr. Kristoffer Tanseco
Cardiologist
Dr. Francisco P. Altarejos
Past President, Philippine Orthopedic Association
Dr. Ditas Decena
Past President, Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society
Dr. Mariann Almajar
Medical Director, Proser Clinics
Dr. Eric Chacon Diabetologist
Dr. Hyacinth Claire Tanseco Chacon, Pediatric immunologist
Dr. Patrick Vincent Tanseco Urology
Dr. Niño Anthony Tanseco Radiologist
Dr. Benjamin Castro Jr. FPCP, FPSG Dr. Vicente P. Tanseco III Nephrology
Dr. Ma. Felicidad Soto
Past President Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Raymond L. Rosales
Past President, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Benita Padilla
Past President, Philippine Society of Nephrology
Dr. Pearl Tamesis-Villalon
Past President, Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology
Dr. Christian Sigfried T. Estanislao Nephrologist
Dr. Rogelio Lim Libarnes Philippine Neurologic Association
Dr. Guia Crisostomo Tan Bioethicist
Otolaryngologist, The Medical City
Dr. Irene E. Castillo-Paler Nephrologist
Dr. Ma.Socorro Sarfati
Past President, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Ma. Annette Bautista
Past President, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Raquel Alvarez
Past Presidents, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Philip Ramiro
Past Presidents, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Rosalina Picar
Past Presidents, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Romulo Esagunde
Past Presidents, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Vic Salas
Public Health and Development
Dr. Rogelio Libarnes
Philippine Neurologic Association
Dr. Maria Belen Tamayo
Past President, Philippine society of Medical Oncology
Dr. Art Catli
Past President, Pasig City Medical Society
Dr. Ricardo D. Isip Jr.
Past President, Albay Medical Society PMA Past Governor-Bicol
Ronald John Recio, M. A., RPsy EMDRPac. MBPsS Clinical Psychologist
Ricardo Boncan, D.M.D., FOPAP, FICD President, Orofacial Pain Association Philippines
Dr. Zarinah Garcia Gonzaga, FPOGS
Board of Trustees, Philippine Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine
Dr. Roehl Salvador
Surgeon, Manila Doctors Hospital and Asian Hospital
Dr. Lou Camille D. Jalbuena IM-Gastroenterology
Dr. Angelo Lozada
Treasurer, Hepatology Society of the Philippines
Dr. Raymond Espinosa
Past President, Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Pamela Rose A. Matti Infectious Diseases Specialist
Dr. Rommel F. Galvez Cardiologist
Dr. Paolo Joel Nocom Cardiologist, Caloocan City
Dr. Jemma Ma. Irene Echiverri Diplomate, Internal Medicine
Dr. Nerissa Reyes
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Cid Czarina Diesta
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Edna Cuasay
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Josephine Tuason
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Novito Magsino
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Rhoderick Cevallos
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Zernan Labaguis
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Julie Ann Espino
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Jeremias Bautista
Philippine Neurological Association (Central Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Jose Antonio M Salud
Past President, Philippine College of Surgeons
Dr. Remedios Coronel
Past President, Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Dr. Vim I. Samonte
President, Philippine College of Physicians Capiz- Aklan Chapter
Dr. Criselda G. Abesamis Pathologist
Dr. Carl Balita
President, Alliance of Allied Health Organizations of the Nation (AAHON)
CEO, Carl Balita Review Center (CBRC)
Dr. Nerissa C. De Guzman
Past President, Philippine College of Physicians, Marikina Chapter
Dr. Josefina M. Lagunzad
President. Philippine College of Physicians, Caraga Chapter
Dr. Eloisa E. Pornillos
President, Philippine College of Physicians Bicol Chapter
Dr. Melvin R. Hacutina
Immediate Past President, Philippine College of Physicians Quezon City Chapter
Dr. Jerome O. Laceda
President, Philippine College of Physicians Rizal Chapter
Dr. Deborah A. Bernardo
Secretary, Philippine College of Physicians Quezon City Chapter
Dr. Anne Margaret J. Ang
President, Philippine College of Physicians Quezon City Chapter
Dr. Benjamin T. Castro Jr., FPCP
Member, Philippine College of Physicians Quezon City Chapter
Dr. Mary Josephine C. Barona
Member, Philippine College of Physicians Quezon City Chapter
Dr. Cesar M. Quiambao, FPCP
Member, Philippine College of Physicians Quezon City Chapter
Dr. Alvin L. Dalumpines
Member, Philippine College of Physicians Quezon City Chapter
Dr. Edilberto Concepcion
Medical Practitioner and Acupuncturist
Dr. Marianne Linley Sy-Janairo Gastroenterologist
Dr. Carlos Paolo D. Francisco Gastroenterologist
Dr. Mark Corleto N. Untalan Jr. Internal Medicine
Dr. Joy Arabelle C. Fontanilla
Past President, American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Philippine Chapter
Dr. Karen Hernandez-Lim
Training Officer, Department of Internal Medicine, MCU-FDTMF Hospital
Dr. Rowena P. Magsino
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Corina Macalintal
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Ana Marie Javelosa
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Eric T. Capulong
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Grace Joy Arceo
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Romeo Porlas Jr.
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Maria Cecilia E. De Guzman
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Jean Marie Ahorro
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Ranhel De Roxas-Bernardino
Philippine Neurological Association (South Luzon Chapter)
Dr. Maria Isabel Samaniego Member, PCP PAMUNLAS Chapter
Dr. Maria Estrella R. Ledesma
Head-Bioethics, Legal Medicine and Jurisprudence
USLS College of Medicine
Dr. Suzette Lazo
Former Director, Food and Drug Administration
Dr. Christine Anne Chacon Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Elizabeth Palines
Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Roberto Tabio Jr.
Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Geohana Jimenez
Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Jjoanne Robles
Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Jennifer Manzano
Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Cheyene Azarcon
Philippine Neurological Association
John Jerusalem Tiongson Philippine Neurological Association
Dr. Herminigildo H. Gan
Past President, Philippine Neurological Association
The pressure to expand sustainable energy solutions internationally has been heightened by recent events both globally and locally. Bonifacio Global Metropolis highlights the importance of eco-friendly practices, which has begun to garner attention as a sustainable city with numerous movements toward green-living.
The ASEAN Center for Energy has invited Bonifacio High Street to the ASEAN Energy Awards 2021 Awarding Ceremony. The ASEAN Energy Awards, which have been held annually since 2000, are a distinguished yearly honor program in Southeast Asia that highlights excellent achievements in the field of energy.
Bonifacio High Street Complex was selected as the 2nd runner-up of the Tropical Building category under the Energy Efficient Building Award of the ASEAN Energy Efficiency and Conservation Best Practices Awards 2021.
Among BGC’s environment-friendly initiatives are its energy-efficient buildings, streetlights, and parks, promoting alternative transportation modes such as cycling and walking, creating more green spaces for the community, plus other programs that support renewable energy and lesser CO2 emissions.
On top of that, BGC also recently became the perfect venue to unveil a meaningful pop-up artwork organized by the Filipino-born global grassroots solar lighting movement, Liter of Light. The massive solar installation featured 1,500 hand-built solar lamps made by thousands of participants through the “Light it Forward” campaign. It created a symbol of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal for Climate Action (UN SDG) #13: Climate Action.
Through initiatives like this, BGC provides BGCitizens with an opportunity to Light it Forward and take part in the Light it Forward Challenge to help different communities and pay tribute to medical frontliners. According to Liter of Light, about 13 million Filipinos still don’t have access to electricity. With a kit that only takes less than 30 minutes to build and can light up a home for 12-16 hours every night, we can still lessen that number.
In keeping with its promise, BGC continues to assist advocacy groups striving to address environmental issues and take advantage of chances to put energy efficiency, water conservation, pollution avoidance, and global warming prevention into practice.
Good news to PAWrents and to the pet-friendly community that begins today, October 6, 2021, BGC and Taguig residents can enjoy free passes for a barktastic day in the park with their doggos! In partnership of Bonifacio Global City with Presidential Paws and PetMe, is finally introducing the newest off-leash dog park in Metro Manila – BGC Central Bark!
And as the biggest off-leash dog park in the heart of BGC, Central Bark ensures all visitors, furbabies, and hoomans that with every visit, they can always have the best floofing time imaginable!
