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Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

Leading the Way in Promoting Running and Wellness in the Philippines: Santé Barley

One of a kind running series in the Philippines partners with Santé Barley to promote running as a way to live more, do more


From L-R: Andrea Intalan- General Manager Sante Fitness Lab, Joey Marcelo CEO, Sante, Jonah Rivera and Christian Marcelo- Santé Barley Triteam, Pauline Bulatao – Corporate Communications, Santé

Santé Barley, the leading authority on barley in the Philippines, is thrilled to announce that it will be co-presenting and the Official Nutrition Partner of HOKA Trilogy Run Asia 2024, an exciting initiative to encourage healthier living among Filipinos.

HOKA Trilogy Run Asia, originally known as RUNRIO Trilogy, was founded in 2010 and has since nourished the nation’s love of running, promoted an active lifestyle, and fostered a thriving community of enthusiasts and athletes alike. Santé Barley understands the significance of this relationship, which marks a turning point for the brand as it increases its reach and pushes for an active and healthy lifestyle. This is because more Filipinos are becoming interested in running, and the running scene has grown.

The increase in the number of participants was evident during the opening race on April 8, with 8,000 runners taking part. Subsequently, more people have been registering, and organizers anticipate a turnout of at least 64,000 participants for this year’s HOKA Trilogy Run Asia.

Santé CEO Joey Marcelo expressed his enthusiasm, noting that this partnership represents a significant opportunity to promote healthier lifestyles among Filipinos.

“We are thrilled to partner with HOKA Trilogy Run Asia, not only to expand Santé Barley’s reach but, more importantly, to promote health and fitness across the Philippines. Just as Santé Barley is packed with nutritional benefits, we believe in holistic wellness, and this alliance presents an exciting opportunity to inspire individuals to live more and do more,” said Marcelo.

Marcelo also shared that within the Santé community, more employees and business owners are joining the races, making running a viable, affordable, and accessible choice to stay active.

“The beauty of running is that you can do it whenever and wherever you want. Whether you run solo, with groups, or even if you don’t join races like this and just set your own PRs (personal records), you can still enjoy the sport. So, I am really glad that we get to share this positive outlook on running within the Santé community and, of course, with the general public, Marcelo added.

The partnership aligns perfectly with HOKA Trilogy Run Asia’s mission of promoting inclusivity and encouraging Filipinos to confidently adopt a healthier lifestyle. With a growing number of participants in their races, HOKA Trilogy Run Asia is expanding its reach to locations across the Philippines. Santé Barley’s support will further fuel this enthusiasm, fostering a positive, health-conscious community through running.

The races will take place across six cities in the country, including Baguio, Cebu, Iloilo/Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao, with a National Finals in Pasay, featuring a total of 19 races nationwide. Several races have already been completed but interested runners can check out the dates below to participate in the upcoming legs.

Upcoming Races:

  • Bacolod (July 28, 2024)
  • Pasay, Manila (August 4, 2024)
  • Cebu (August 18, 2024)
  • Cagayan De Oro (September 15 and October 27, 2024)
  • Baguio (September 29, 2024)
  • Iloilo (October 13, 2024)
  • Davao (October 20, 2024)
  • National Finals in Pasay (December 8, 2024)

In every race organized by RunRio Inc., Santé Barley sets up a booth where participants can enjoy Santé Barley products and experience the benefits of Santé before and after the race. This addition significantly enhances the overall race experience, providing runners with the necessary nutrition to perform and recover better.

Santé Barley’s digital presence will also play a role in promoting the said races, with the help of its e-branches in Luzon (including Baguio City), Visayas (Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod), and Mindanao (Cagayan de Oro and Davao). Santé Barley is also part of other Run Rio races like Earth Day Run, Clark Marathon, Manila Half Marathon, and Manila Marathon, further solidifying its commitment to promoting running as a way to live healthier lives.

Through this collaboration, Santé Barley, RunRio Inc., and HOKA Trilogy Run Asia are supporting a lifestyle that is focused on vitality, well-being, and general health in addition to encouraging athletics and fitness. Collectively, they hope to encourage people of all ages and walks of life to embrace the path towards a more active, healthier future.

Go to mySanté.com to find out more about Santé Barley and other Santé products.

Health and Wellness

NutraHealthyGut: Revolutionizing Gut Health for All Ages

The state of one’s gut affects every aspect of one’s health, including immunity, digestion, and mental state. Aiming to improve digestive health and encourage a healthy lifestyle for the whole family, NutraHealthyGut presents its line of probiotic and prebiotic supplements in recognition of the significance of a balanced gut flora.

Nutrient absorption, effective food digestion, and immune system maintenance are all aided by a healthy gut flora. On the other hand, digestive problems like diarrhea, constipation, and bloating, as well as more serious ailments like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), can result from poor gut health. A healthy stomach can also have a good impact on mood and cognitive function because of the gut-brain connection. Making gut health a priority is necessary for living a longer, happier life.

Understanding Gut Health

Gut health is influenced by various factors such as diet, age, medication, sleep, exercise, stress, and lifestyle choices. High-fiber foods, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods promote healthy gut bacteria. However, aging, medications, poor sleep, high stress, lack of exercise, smoking, excessive alcohol, and dehydration can negatively impact gut health.

The Role of Probiotics and Prebiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that help maintain, balance, or increase the good bacteria in the gut. They can be found in some fermented foods, though not all foods act as effective probiotics since some do not survive digestion. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are non-digestible fibers that support the activity of good bacteria in the gut. They are found in fiber-rich foods, providing nourishment for probiotics.

The Synbiotic Concept

The concept of synbiotic is a combination of both probiotic and prebiotic approaches. A synbiotic aims at stimulating the growth and activity of indigenous bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in conjunction with probiotic strain. Prebiotic provide additional protection during intestinal transit to ensure persistence of the probiotic strain to the lower intestinal tract. Prebiotic enhance the growth of the probiotic strain and of the targeted commensal populations.

NutraHealthyGut Supplements

NutraHealthyGut offers an effective supplement range designed to support and enhance gut health. The products combine the power of probiotics and prebiotics to restore intestinal ecology and balance, reducing constipation, infectious diarrhea, and antibiotic-related diarrhea. They also improve digestion, alleviate bloating, and help reduce symptoms of lactose intolerance. Additionally, NutraHealthyGut supplements aid in preventing UTIs, managing symptoms of IBD & IBS, and addressing pediatric atopic dermatitis and eczema in children.

Product Range:

NutraHealthyGut Everyday: A potent combination of prebiotics and probiotics forming a powerful synbiotic blend. With 40 billion colony forming units (CFU) of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, NutraHealthyGut Everyday addresses various gastrointestinal issues, restores intestinal balance, reduces diarrhea and constipation, enhances digestion, improves nutrient absorption, alleviates lactose malabsorption, and boosts natural resistance to infections.

NutraHealthyGut Advance: Elevates gut health with 80 billion CFU from at least 11 probiotic strains, effective against moderate to severe GI disorders like IBS and IBD. It also contains lutein-a type of vitamin called a carotenoid which is related to beta-carotene and vitamin A to support good eyesight.

NutraHealthyGut Kids: Specifically formulated for children, this product combines prebiotics and probiotics in a convenient powder form, offering 6 billion CFU from at least 10 probiotic strains. It treats diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and indigestion while maintaining healthy gut flora and preventing allergies and eczema.

“We are proud to introduce NutraHealthyGut, a product range that embodies our commitment to enhancing health and well-being,” said Poala Sarfati, General Manager of ProMedica, the visionary behind NutraHealthyGut. “Our innovative formulations, backed by scientific research, ensure that individuals of all ages can enjoy the numerous benefits of a healthy gut. Binoy Zapanta, VP for Marketing believes that NutraHealthyGut is more than just a supplement; it’s a step towards a healthier, happier life.” NutraHealthyGut is accredited and certified by the FDA, WHO, ISO, CEDRES, GMP, and the National Institutes of Health, UP Manila.

The goal of NutraHealthyGut is to improve gut health in people of all ages. Accessible at pharmacies across the country, including Medexpress, Watsons, Southstar, Mediscount, and Mercury Drug; also available online at https://www.lazada.com.ph/tag/nutrahealthygut/. Contact Sherwin Malinis, VP of Sales, Aris Geronimo, VP of Business Operations, and Alvin Ilano, VP of Trade, for wholesale orders. Please email [email protected] or call (02) 7277-5789 or (02) 8374 8745 if you have any additional questions.

Discover the impact a healthy gut can make by taking NutraHealthyGut supplements and reaping their revolutionary advantages. Follow @nutrahealthygut on Facebook and Instagram for additional details.

Health and Wellness

Santé is ahead of the game in the health and wellness scene through acceleration and innovation

Discover the company’s journey to staying at the forefront of empowering people to live more, do more.

As more people prioritize self-care, there is a growing market for health and wellness products. The thriving sector emerged to improve health and serve as a catalyst for innovation and growth. Santé stands out as one of the world’s fastest-growing distribution and direct-selling firms dedicated to helping people live better lives. They improve people’s lives by providing transformative products and services.

Santé is a major player in the ever-changing health and wellness market, particularly among Filipinos who are putting greater emphasis on their well-being. They are constantly aiming to be the best, which has set new standards and transformed how Filipinos view health care. Santé is now sharing their tale of acceleration and innovation, from grass to glass.

Integrating high-quality processes into barley production. Santé’s success starts with their commitment to high-quality ingredients. They get their barley from New Zealand’s clean fields, where modern technology works alongside traditional farming methods. These fields, located in Canterbury, carry the perfect soil for growing barley.

All Santé’s farms in New Zealand are manned by highly skilled farmers who use top-notch equipment to grow the barley. Even though New Zealand’s climate naturally helps crops grow well, Santé’s farmers carefully check on the barley using advanced tools. This ensures every plant reaches peak freshness before harvest. And because of their careful approach, Santé’s barley has earned a special organic certification from BioGro. This means they don’t use harmful chemicals and follow strict environmental guidelines.

According to Santé New Zealand Managing Director Peter Hope, Santé considers the fusion of high-tech processes with eco-conscious practices pivotal in its mission to achieve acceleration and innovation.

“By prioritizing cleanliness, environmental friendliness, and sustainability, Santé remains steadfast in its pursuit of elevating standards and reaching new heights in the industry,” said Hope.

Driving innovation and acceleration through business programs. More than just its products, Santé is renowned for offering business opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs. The company consistently pushes its boundaries through innovative programs tailored to adapt to the ever-evolving demands of the industry.

The Santé business program provides comprehensive education and training for individuals interested in starting their own business ventures. As a direct-selling company, Santé operates with a growth mindset, continuously striving to assist Filipinos in living better lives.

According to Santé CEO Joey Marcelo, innovation is the driving force behind Santé’s relevance in the market, which is a philosophy that extends to their business owners. “This year, one of Santé’s goals is to implement digital transformation across our processes and harness the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This initiative underscores our commitment to foster not only credibility but also paving the way for a brighter, transformative future in the health and wellness sector,” Marcelo stated.

Presently, Santé actively engages with consumers through various platforms and strategies, with a primary focus on digital connectivity to reach a wider audience, particularly the younger demographic. This initiative is part of their global expansion strategy, as Santé has established its presence in 10 other countries, serving as a testament to their belief that transforming lives transcends geographical boundaries.

Extending health and wellness beyond the “glass”. While Santé Barley remains the company’s flagship product, Santé’s commitment to wellness extends far beyond it. Santé offers a diverse range of health and wellness products and services tailored to meet the unique needs of its customers. From nutritional supplements and drinks enriched with barley such as Santé Barley Capsule, Santé Daily C, Fit N Trim, Fusion Coffee, Choco Barley, and Boost Coffee, to personal care products crafted with natural ingredients like Santé Natureal toothpaste and Moments sanitary napkins, Santé empowers individuals to live better lives.

Moreover, Santé has expanded its offerings beyond health and wellness products by establishing the Santé Leisure Club, Santé Fitness Lab, and they are now venturing into the food and beverage industry.

According to Santé Managing Director for the Philippines and Asia 1, Paul Caluag, Santé is continuously pursuing excellence, with acceleration and innovation at the core of their growth. “By offering holistic solutions that address the mind, body, and spirit, Santé goes beyond the traditional boundaries of wellness, inspiring a movement towards total well-being,” said Caluag.

Santé’s story demonstrates the power of innovation and acceleration in the health and wellness market. Santé’s unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and consumer-centricity has not only altered industry standards, but also reshaped Filipinos’ attitudes toward health. Indeed, Santé continues to lead the way, demonstrating that true acceleration and innovation have no limits.

For more information on Santé and its health and wellness products and services, go to mySanté.com.

Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

Experts indicate RSV may increase threats for seniors


(From Left: Ms. SoYoung Seo, General Manager of GSK Philippines, Dr. Lourdes Dumlao, Geriatrics Expert, Dr. Lenora Fernandez, Pulmonology Expert, Dr. Rontgene Solante, Infectious Disease Expert, Ms. Nanette Inventor, Artist and Educator, Dr. Gio Barangan Country Medical Director of GSK Philippines and Mr. Richard Arboleda, Communications, Government Affairs and Market Access Lead of GSK Philippines

News Highlights

  • Public health experts warn that over 9 million Filipino seniors, especially those with comorbidities, are at high risk for severe RSV infections due to weakened immune systems.
  • RSV easily infects members within households, with symptoms often mistaken for the common flu, leading to potentially fatal complications in seniors.
  • There is no targeted treatment for RSV in adults.
  • Seniors require extensive aftercare post-hospitalization for RSV, with a significant percentage needing professional home care and facing high readmission and mortality rates.
  • RSV is often misperceived as a pediatric illness, but it poses a greater threat to older adults, causing severe complications such as pneumonia, respiratory distress, and exacerbation of pre-existing comorbidities.
  • Preventive measures, including regular medical consultations, hygiene protocols, and healthy lifestyle habits, are crucial for mitigating RSV risks among seniors.

Public health professionals are warning senior folks and Filipinos with comorbidities about the serious hazards connected with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, the country has more than 9 million seniors aged 60 and up. Seniors, particularly those with comorbidities, are more likely to develop severe Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections due to compromised immune systems.

Dr. Rontgene Solante, an infectious disease expert and President of the Philippine College of Physicians, described RSV as a common but little-known respiratory virus that spreads through inhalation or contact with infected people’s respiratory secretions. Symptoms often include congestion, coughing, wheezing, and a low-grade fever.

Selfie with Ms. Nanette Inventor, one of the speaker. Openly managing Type 2 Diabetes and hypertension, Nanette playfully crowns herself the “queen of maintenance medicines,” inspiring others to prioritize their health.

Hearing this news is so alarming, yet I am glad to be aware of this disease. I’m with my mom, and she’s also a senior citizen. This news has become an eye-opener for me to be more mindful of my surroundings since I’m always going out for work. There are a lot of cases and diseases right now, and being more careful and hygienic can help our children and senior citizens who are just at home.

“Identifying RSV from other respiratory diseases is difficult because of its non-specific symptoms similar to other illnesses. Diagnosis requires testing that is often expensive and not widely accessible. Seniors and individuals with comorbidities may mistake their symptoms for a common cold or flu, not realizing they could be suffering from RSV, which can result in severe long-term damage or even fatal complications. More concerning is that there is no specific treatment for RSV in adults,” says Dr. Solante.

He emphasizes that while RSV can infect individuals at any time of the year, it spreads more intensively during the rainy months from September to February, peaking in the colder months of October and December. This highly contagious virus spreads easily within households, where one infected person typically infects three others, and while most are infectious for 3-8 days, older adults may transmit the virus for extended periods.

“Our seniors are particularly susceptible and vulnerable because, in Philippine culture, they often live with family members who also serve as their caregivers. These family members may unknowingly contract RSV at work or elsewhere and bring it home to their senior relatives. Within the household, symptoms might be dismissed as just the flu, not realizing that what’s circulating is RSV, which can be fatal for seniors.” says Dr. Solante.

RSV imposes a greater burden and necessitates extensive aftercare for seniors

Dr. Lourdes Dumlao, President of the Philippine College of Geriatric Medicine, observes that RSV is often depicted as a pediatric illness on social media because children, like seniors, have weak immune systems, making them vulnerable. However, she emphasizes that RSV presents a greater burden on seniors.

Dr. Dumlao explains, “Studies have shown that the incidence of hospitalizations and mortality due to RSV is substantially higher in seniors than in children.  Seniors with certain underlying conditions such as pneumonia, congestive heart failure (CHF), asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are at higher risk of hospitalization when infected with RSV. Additionally, RSV can cause various severe respiratory complications in older adults, including arrest and failure, respiratory distress, and emphysema. Further, about 30% of older adults may develop heart complications when hospitalized with RSV.”

Dr. Lenora C. Fernandez, head of Pulmonary Services at Asian Hospital and Medical Center and former President of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians, highlights the extensive aftercare needed by RSV patients even after hospital discharge, stressing the burden this imposes not only on the patients themselves but also on their families.

Dr. Fernandez says, “One out of four RSV patients (24.5%) may require professional home care after hospital discharge. Additionally, up to one out of four (26.6%) of these patients are readmitted within three months post-discharge, and even more concerning, three out of ten (33%) may die from complications related to RSV within a year of their initial admission.”

Awareness and Proactive Health Measures to Protect Seniors from RSV

Dr. Solante emphasizes the importance of education in mitigating the health risks of RSV and highlights the need for both seniors and their caregivers to be well-informed.

“RSV is difficult to detect and prone to misinformation so I advise seniors to discuss RSV with their doctors who can guide them on the necessary precautions to reduce their health risk,” he advises.

Dr. Fernandez recommends taking fast action if flu-like symptoms occur in the home. “I recommend that families implement safety and hygiene protocols promptly to protect their seniors, such as isolating symptomatic individuals, wearing face masks, and engaging in frequent handwashing,” she says.

“Seniors must be proactive about their health,” says Dr. Dumlao. “Through regular medical consultations, seniors can ensure they receive the right interventions to mitigate RSV risks, while also adopting healthy habits like maintaining a healthy diet, getting adequate sleep, and engaging in regular exercise to boost their immune system.”

About RSV in older adults

RSV is a common contagious virus affecting the lungs and breathing passages. Adults can be at increased risk for RSV disease due to comorbidities, immune-compromised status, or advanced age. RSV can exacerbate conditions, including COPD, asthma, and chronic heart failure and can lead to severe outcomes, such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and death. Each year, approximately 177,000 adults 65 years and older are hospitalized in the US due to RSV; an estimated 14,000 cases result in death.

Health and Wellness

Santé Shares Announce Plans to Improve and Invent

Fueled by the company’s desire to grow and expand, Santé celebrates Salvo 2024 with the goal of becoming the innovative leader in the health and wellness industry

Santé, one of the world’s fastest-growing direct-selling and distribution businesses committed to enhancing people’s lives, recently commemorated their Salvo week with two grand events: Sizzle Night at the SMX Convention Center and Salvo 2024 Gala Night at Okada Manila.

One of their greatest events, Salvo 2024 Sizzle Night, drew together over 6,000 company owners, partners, and stakeholders from throughout the nation.

The event, which had the topic “Santé AI: Accelerate, Innovate,” emphasized the company’s dedication to investigating novel approaches to accelerate and innovate not just on their goods and services but also on their entrepreneurs, who consistently set new standards for themselves in the industry.

Santé CEO Joey Marcelo emphasized acceleration and innovation as the company’s key to expanding its mission. This mission centers on making people live better lives by empowering both business owners and Santé itself to explore new opportunities. Their commitment is evident not only with their health and wellness products but also various businesses from services to food and beverage. Santé continues to adapt and explore different verticals for a holistic approach to health and wellness. 

“For the past 17 years, Santé has been a constant advocate for health and wellness, pioneering innovative products and services that empower people to transform their lives. Together with our business owners and stakeholders, we’re poised to accelerate, innovate, and evolve beyond our current definition,” said Marcelo.

Santé New Zealand Managing Director, Peter Hope, shared exciting news about breakthrough increases in yield. Santé barley certified organic by BioGro and grown in the pristine grasslands of New Zealand, has seen production soar from a mere 50kg per hectare to a staggering 1,000 to 1,200kg per hectare.

“This breakthrough solidifies Santé’s position as a global barley authority, not just in the Philippines. It underscores our commitment to continuous acceleration, innovation, and delivering the highest quality health and wellness products and services,” Hope added.

Santé Managing Director for Philippines and Asia 1, Mr. Paul Caluag emphasized the importance of their business owners. “Our Salvo celebration is a way to thank them for their tireless efforts in propelling Santé to new heights. That’s why our message of acceleration and innovation includes them on this journey,” said Caluag.

Santé Brand Ambassador and TV Personality, Kuya Kim Atienza, who attended the Sizzle Night, echoed this sentiment. He highlighted the reason behind why Santé continues to be number one in the health and wellness industry.

“Santé is number one because they stay true to their mission while remaining humble and continuously working hard for acceleration and innovation. Without a doubt, Santé will continue to grow bigger globally because it offers a product that works and it’s a company that everyone can believe in,” Atienza reiterated.

This year’s Salvo celebration included the presentation of prizes and incentives. Santé even raffled off a brand-new automobile to one lucky winner on Sizzle Night.

The purpose of these awards was to acknowledge and pay tribute to the people who were essential to Santé’s success. They became prosperous business owners who still serve as an inspiration to others thanks to their inventiveness and zeal, which drove the company’s acceleration.

Visit the mySanté.com website to find out more about Santé and its offerings in health and wellbeing.

Health and Wellness

Experts Advise Filipinos to Take Caution Against Shingles


(L-R): Archana Rajan, GSK Philippines Adult Vaccines Business Unit Director; Dr. Gio Barangan, GSK Philippines Country Medical Director; So Young Seo, GSK Philippines General Manager; Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas, Dermatologist; Dr. Rontgene Solante, Infectious Diseases Specialist; Richard Arboleda, GSK Philippines Communications and Government Affairs Head; Rachel Tongson, Adult Vaccines Marketing Manager, GSK Philippines

Together with the multinational biopharmaceutical company GSK, health specialists launched a national awareness campaign to inform people about the severe viral disease known as shingles and its dangers, impacts, and prevention. Shingles are often disregarded, but if left untreated, they can cause major difficulties, especially in elderly persons. At age 50.1, the likelihood of developing shingles increases significantly. After attending their event, we acquired a lot of information about shingles and how it affects people who have this kind. It is such an informed move for them to educate people and to take such measures to prevent its spread.

The varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox, is the cause of shingles, commonly referred to as Herpes Zoster.2 Anyone who has been exposed to the chickenpox virus may acquire shingles because the virus lays dormant in nerve tissue and can reactivate years later.

The campaign seeks to increase public knowledge of the illness, its effects on quality of life, and the significance of seeking medical advice in order to prevent disease. Additionally, the project aims to dispel myths and offer reliable data directly from medical experts and individuals who have personally experienced the illness.

Shingles causes a painful skin rash that often blisters and scabs over in 10 – 15 days.4-5 According to dermatologist Dr. Irene Robredo-Vitas “karamihan talaga ng may shingles ang unang una talagang nakakakita ay mga dermatologist”.

Beyond a rash, there is a significant chance that shingles can lead to serious complications.6 About 30% of patients with shingles will experience long-term nerve pain.6 One out of four patients with shingles can get infected near the eye which may lead to blindness in some cases.7


Infectious Diseases Specialist, Dr. Rontgene Solante, discussed the burden of the disease.

According to an infectious diseases specialist, Dr. Rontgene Solante, “shingles is not just an ordinary rash. It has complications that can lead to higher morbidity. It can lead to depression, anxiety, and it can also affect your vision. He further added “a characteristic of shingles is that may tumutubo na mga rashes in one side of the body lang, but the more important characteristic is — ito ay napakasakit. It’s very uncomfortable to the point na yung iba, nahirapan silang mag damit, nahihirapan sila gawin housework nila, daily chores nila because of the severe pain.”

One of the guest panelists, Karen Davila, a renowned journalist and shingles sufferer, shared her story to stress the importance of shingles awareness “I have had it twice. I felt depressed, scared, and honestly ashamed. I would not want anybody to experience that.” 


(L-R): Host, Issa Litton; Infectious Diseases Specialist, Dr. Rontgene Solante; Dermatologist, Dr. Gaile Robredo-Vitas; and Geenette Garcia, Suffered from Shingles 4-times; during the panel discussion of “Sabi Nila: The Truth About Shingles” media launch.

There are myths and misconceptions surrounding shingles, and one of them is that it is a sexually transmitted disease. According to Dr. Rontgene Solante, “hindi sexually transmitted ang shingles. because the shingles virus is the same virus that causes chickenpox. When you get older, your immune system goes down and that’s when the chickenpox virus reactivates and can become shingles.”

No matter how healthy an individual feels, when age 50 or older, one is at risk because the immune system declines with age. Thus, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional about shingles prevention today.


Some shingles rash pictures

Through educational materials written by medical professionals, the shingles awareness campaign aims to educate people everywhere. In addition, this endeavor seeks to debunk misconceptions and offer precise, trustworthy information so that Filipinos can make knowledgeable decisions regarding their health.

For additional information about shingles, see www.whatisshingles.ph and speak with your physician.

Find out more at gsk.com/company

Beauty, Health and Wellness

Paula’s Choice has fantastic promotions this month that will make you feel good about February!

This February, Paula’s Choice Philippines is here to help you feel great in your own skin with its proven formulas and trusted ingredients


Paula’s Choice Philippines February 2024 Feel Good Event

Several factors can help us feel good about our bodies, including a satisfying night’s sleep, a tasty dinner, a vigorous workout, a nice hair day, fashionable clothing, and more. But wouldn’t it be preferable if our skin served as a physical manifestation of our positive self-esteem?

Feel good with science-backed formulas that work!

The Feel Good Event by Paula’s Choice Philippines will take place from February 13 to February 29, 2024! Get 20% off everything in the store, including best-selling items like the C5 Super Boost Eye Cream, SKIN BALANCING Pore-Reducing Toner, calming body care products, and much more. With these incredible formulas, you may look and feel beautiful since effective skincare makes you smile.


Paula’s Choice Philippines Feel Good Event Products

Get a Feel Good Set worth ₱2,650 for free when you spend a minimum of ₱5,000! Together with travel-sized versions of the 5% Niacinamide Body Serum, Super Hydrate Overnight Mask, and Weightless Body Treatment 2% BHA, the Feel Good bundle includes three premium samples of the Skin Revealing Body Lotion 10% AHA.


FREE Feel Good Set

Don’t pass up the opportunity to get these incredible discounts! This February, the time has come to feel fantastic, and that moment is now.

The aforementioned promos are only available at https://paulaschoice.ph/. Paula’s Choice Philippines is available on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Beauty, Health and Wellness

Aesthetic and Wellness Center Gains Notoriety with Grand Opening of 11th Clinic and First Mall Branch

Passion and dreams fuel endless progress.


Ms. Krystal Tecson- Garalde, Dear Self CEO and Ms. Sai Evangelista, leads the new clinic’s ribbon-cutting event at SM MarketMall Dasmarinas

This dedication is continuously displayed by Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center, which opened its 11th clinic in Dasmarinas, Cavite, and, most significantly, opened its first location inside SM Market Mall.

The Tecson Siblings, the family behind this chain of wellness and aesthetic centers, are excited to open their first clinic and provide affordable, high-quality treatments and services to all Caviteños.

“We are thrilled that the best is yet to come. For we believe that nothing is more surprising than bringing out the best version of ourselves. Join us in this unfolding- to be bold, beautiful and best. Thank you for sharing this momentous event with us,” Krystal Tecson-Garalde, Chief Executive Officer of Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center mentioned in her speech during the ribbon cutting ceremony.


 Family, friends and the brand’s top management attends the opening of the first branch at SM MarketMall

The majority of those in attendance agreed that this historic event on January 13 was a milestone, and it was attended by top brand management, clinic employees, family, and friends.

Ms. Tecson-Garalde emphasized the significance of teamwork, enthusiasm, and commitment in reaching this goal. She also emphasized how crucial it is to establish a secure environment for both customers and staff, as this contributes to Dear Self’s rise to prominence in the metro area as a reliable name in beauty and wellness.

“We also take a beautiful walk through our next pages of success for we see the beauty in helping and making our employees and clients realize the path not only to self-care but also to self-love,” Ms, Tecson-Garalde mentioned.

In the afternoon, the ceremonial ribbon-cutting commenced with a heartfelt prayer. After the top management delivered their meanigful speeches, snacks were served to all attendees.

Unbelievable Journey

Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center is, relatively, one of the newest players in the industry. They will celebrate their fourth year this 2024 but the achievement they constantly get is something incredible to the branch owners and top management.


Mr. Wayne Bramida, Dear Self’s Operations Manager hosts the intimate event at the launch of the newest Dear Aesthetic and Wellnes Center’s branch at SM MarketMall Dasmarinas

They took a major risk when they started running the brand during the pandemic. As the saying goes, only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far they can go. What Dear Self has achieved now and continuously attains is definitely the result of them taking the first step during one of the riskiest times to start a business.

Mr. Kenneth Tecson, Chief Marketing Officer of Dear Self, strongly believes that the brand’s business values and the people who started it created a wide chance to achieve this success.

“At the core of Dear Self Aesthetic Center lies a dedication to encouraging self-love, with a firm belief in the unique individuality of each person. Our aim at Dear Self is to instill in all of you the confidence to recognize and appreciate the incredible individuals you are, encouraging the embrace of your beauty from the inside out,” Mr. Kenneth Tecson said.

On the other hand, brand optimization has been part of their brand 2023 that according to Dear Self’s Chief Financial Officer was a really difficult business instance.

“Last year was a difficult one for us. It was two months ago nung inopen ni Dear Self ang next chapter ng journey niya. No one knows kung ano yung ibig sabihin nun that time na nirelaunch natin ang isa sa mga old brands natin. Pero today I am very proud that Dear Self is going inside SM, level up na tayo!” he proudly expressed.

The entire team also discussed the various plans they have for this year and the upcoming years. Among the objectives stated were expanding Visayas, gaining more success through neighboring provinces, and providing new treatments and services using the newest and best equipment.

“New milestones and new successes, these are our continous goals for the brand,” Mr. Christian Tecson ended.

The new Dear Self Aesthetic and Wellness Center branch is located inside the new SM Market Mall, first public-private partnership between a City Government and SM Prime Holdings that features a vertical wet and dry market development complemented by mall facilities.

Visit their social media pages to know more!

https://www.tiktok.com/@dearselfaesthetic.center

https://www.instagram.com/dearselfaesthetic/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_PjtJko9-eXk1stBnEpX7g

https://www.facebook.com/dearselfaestheticandwellness

https://www.facebook.com/dearselfcavite

Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

In Calatagan, Batangas, Nawa Wellness Unveils Premier Wellness Sanctuary—Your Path to Wellness Begins Here.

The much awaited wellness resort Nawa Wellness, which draws its inspiration from traditional Filipino wellness knowledge, is happy to announce that it will begin accepting visitors on January 24, 2024. With its remarkable array of amenities and distinctively Filipino rejuvenating experiences, Nawa Wellness, which is tucked away in the picturesque hamlet of Calatagan, Batangas, is poised to completely transform the wellness landscape in the Philippines.

Nestled in the splendor of the natural world, Nawa Wellness provides a comprehensive approach to well-being by merging age-old wisdom with modern amenities. Among the health activities available to visitors is a large pickleball court, which offers the ideal setting for combining exercise, enjoyment, and friendly rivalry.

Designed to inspire tranquility and relaxation, Nawa Wellness presents an array of wellness facilities that are sure to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. Guests can bask in the healing properties of the Himalayan Salt Room, where the unique salt-infused air promotes respiratory health and skin rejuvenation. For an authentically Filipino experience, the traditional Kawa Bath is available, offering a therapeutic soak amidst the calming sounds of nature.

As a treat to pioneer guests during this soft opening phase, Nawa Wellness is pleased to offer an introductory rate of up to 30% off on published rates for a limited time. This exclusive offer invites guests to embark on a truly transformative wellness journey at an exceptional value. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or an active getaway, Nawa Wellness promises an unforgettable experience tailored to individual needs.

Please visit nawawellness.com to reserve your wellness retreat and for additional information. To receive updates on the newest information, deals, and wellness advice, follow Nawa Wellness on Facebook at facebook.com/nawawellness and Instagram at instagram.com/nawawellness.

The health arm of Araw Hospitality Group, an innovative newcomer to the hospitality sector dedicated to crafting remarkable experiences that captivate and motivate visitors, is called Nawa health. With a diverse portfolio of prosperous hospitality endeavors that includes UNWND Boutique Hotels and Lihim Resorts in El Nido, the firm is always pushing the envelope of what constitutes extraordinary hospitality.

Health and Wellness

With the KonsultaMD Partnership, Allianz PNB Life Supports Your Health and Wellness Objectives


Allianz PNB Life and Konsulta MD MOA Signing at Allianz PNB Life Head Office in Makati represented by (from left to right): Marjowyn Vito (Head of Business Development, Allianz PNB Life), Leonardo Tan Jr. (Chief Product Provider Officer, Allianz PNB Life), Joseph Gross (President and Chief Executive Officer, Allianz PNB Life),  Cholo Tagaysay (Chief Executive Officer, KonsultaMD),
Dr. Chelsea Elizabeth Samson (Chief Business and Medical Affairs Officer, KonsultaMD)

Maintaining a worry-free, health-conscious lifestyle is still crucial, proving the saying “health is wealth” to be true. Acknowledging this necessity, Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) forged a strategic alliance with KonsultaMD to provide free medical teleconsultations to Filipinos.

Through this collaboration, more Filipinos will have access to the cutting-edge telemedicine service offered by KonsultaMD, which provides professional guidance and diagnosis from recognized medical specialists anytime, anywhere. This innovative healthcare solution is designed to satisfy the changing needs of contemporary consumers.

This ground-breaking partnership demonstrates AZPNBL’s commitment to implementing cutting-edge healthcare solutions for its clients. Their goal is to make Filipinos aware of the importance of health insurance and teleconsultation, as well as the advantages of having access to healthcare for their mental well-being.

“By integrating advanced telemedicine solutions into our programs, Allianz demonstrates a commitment to providing not only financial security but also leveraging technology to enhance the overall well-being of customers. It aligns with the company’s goal of delivering innovative solutions and services that cater to the ever-changing needs of our clients. Through our partnership with KonsultaMD, clients can have access to expert medical care even in the comfort of their homes. With convenient access to healthcare, they will have fewer worries, so they can focus on living their lives to the fullest. With expert advice, they will better manage their lifestyles and practice mindfulness in caring for themselves. This will also help them better plan their future with their families,” says Leo Tan, Jr., Allianz’s Chief Product Provider Officer.

Additionally, KonsultaMD is a component of Allianz Healthbox, a program created especially for AZPNBL clients that fulfills all of their demands in terms of lifestyle, wellness, and healthcare at one convenient location. Customers of Allianz PNB Life are eligible to receive exclusive benefits and freebies from Allianz Healthbox partners. These partners include FREE in-clinic consultations from MyHealth, FREE gym access from Anytime Fitness, FREE nutrition counseling from Daily’s Diet, FREE optical care from Vision Express and Asian Eye Institute, and many more.

Visit www.allianzpnblife.ph/healthbox or get in touch with your Life Changer for additional information about Allianz Healthbox.

Find out more at allianzpnblife.ph or @allianzpnblifeofficial on Facebook.