WORLD PNEUMONIA DAY: 5TH BIRTHDAY

WORLD PNEUMONIA DAY: 5TH BIRTHDAY

The World Pneumonia Day celebration was held in Tagaytay City last November 8, 2013, with around 100 health advocates including doctors and media gathered at the lobby of Summit Ridge Hotel in Tagaytay City to celebrate the 5th year of its successful fight against the killer disease.

Philippines ranks 10th among countries with the most number of pneumonia cases and is one of the fifteen countries that account for 75 percent of childhood pneumonia cases. Pneumonia is fatal. In some cases it is widespread, and dangerous and yet not many people realizes that it is so simple to prevent it. The simple answer is anti-Pneumonia vaccine.

The dance group, ‘The Maneuvers’ led by Josh did the opening number. 
                                        
After which, everyone let their hair down and joined in the fun and dance with Department of Health (DOH) Assistant Secretary Eric Tayag to the tune of "Sapul sa Pulmonya." The song “Sapul sa Pulmonya,” embodied the simple message of “Prevent, Protect and Treat,” through breastfeeding, proper nutrition, avoidance of indoor pollution, vaccines and antibiotics.
                                         

The World Pneumonia Campaign celebrates the lives of Filipino children saved by the health department’s anti-Pneumonia campaign and who otherwise would not have seen their 5th Birthday. It was also the fifth year celebration of this campaign against one of the world’s deadliest diseases that have killed millions of young ones already.

How many people, outside of the medical and/or health field, actually know that pneumonia is the number one killer of children below five years old in the world? I bet not a lot of Filipinos know that.

Philippine Foundation for Vaccination (PFV) Executive Director Dr. Lulu Bravo asks help from the media to help them spread the news. Bravo urges mothers to breastfeed their infants for it is the first step in fighting Pneumonia. She also encourages parents to have their kids vaccinated.

Pneumonia accounts for 18% of child deaths and it is preventable. End preventable child deaths. The Government’s aggressive campaign against Pneumonia started in 2008 as it has partnered with the private sector, the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination (PFV). Since it started five years ago, things have started to get better, says the government’s health department. Health studies reveal that one child dies of pneumonia every 20 seconds, which total to around 4,300 children who die of the disease daily. Around 37 of them are Filipino children under the age of 5.

The kiddo receives his Anti-Pneumonia vaccine during the ceremonial vaccination on Thursday, November 8. 

The parents and the kid-recipients of the anti-Pneumonia vaccine, Jade Irish Lobrino, Naifa Maruhom, Phria Amor Magsino, Cyeamshee Selbannia, and Christian James Tapel with DOH ASec Eric Tayag at the 5th year anniversary of the local anti-Pneumonia campaign.

The 5th Birthday of the Philippines’ anti-Pneumonia campaign was concluded by the blowing of this giant cake while everyone in the room sings ‘Happy Birthday.’ 

Giant Cake Happy 5th Birthday World Pneumonia Day

Every Filipino child deserves a fifth birthday. Ask your health provider about available vaccines against pneumonia.

Happy 5th Birthday World Pneumonia Day!

RED CROSS: Donate Direct

RED CROSS: Donate Direct

Donate directly to Red Cross please. The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) could arrange for donation pick-up. 

PRC identifies and directly gives help to those in need without going through government channels or politicians.

Don't just believe anyone trying to solicit for your donations. Choose well. Be wary of wolves in sheeps' clothing. 

It is sad to know that some opportunists will do everything just to get something out of other people's misery. 
 
Why do these cruel people wanted some in-kind donations for themselves? Pagpipipilian muna ang mga donations bago ibigay?

Be on the look out for false good samaritans who come to you in sheeps' clothing but inside they are cruel wolves. They smile a lot, dripping with practiced sincerity.

Sa kapwa ko Filipino, hang on, help is on the way. God bless us all.

Contiki’s Backstage Pass to Europe in 2014

Contiki’s Backstage Pass to Europe in 2014

Croatia

Live with #NOREGRETS and save up to US$680* off Europe 

Contiki Holidays, a leading tour operator for young travellers aged 18-35, is unveiling its all-new 2014 Europe brochures. Contiki’s signature Backstage Pass is included in every trip. Clients can thus save time and make every moment count by skipping the queues at the Eiffel Tower and the Vatican, for example, and by experiencing other exclusive inclusions.

Santorini

In case you are wondering what "Contiki" stands for in "Contiki Holidays" or "Contiki Tours," here is a bit of history.

In 1961, a young New Zealander named John Anderson arrived in London wanting to travel around Europe. He didn’t want to travel alone and he didn’t have a lot of money. So what he did was to make a deposit for the rental of a minibus and he gathered a group of people to travel with him around Europe for 12 weeks. They had a wonderful time as you can see in their group picture.

Photo from www.contiki.com

In the following year, he again organized not one but two Europe trips. He named his tour business Contiki Holidays. The word "contiki" is derived from 'con' in continental and 'tiki,' a Maori word meaning "friend." In other words, a contiki tour means travelling all over the world with friends. Maori, by the way, are indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. 

Contiki’s tour business continued to grow and ten years later there were over 50 Contiki buses on the roads of Europe. Compare the minibus rented during the first tours of Contiki Holidays to the Contiki buses now and you will be amazed how Contiki grew over the years.

Photo from www.contiki.com

In 1989 John Anderson decided to sell Contiki to Trafalgar Tours. Contiki and Trafalgar Tours are now part of The Travel Corporation, a world wide combination of tour operators, travel and tourism companies that now carry over 1 million people a year. Contiki targets 18-35 travellers while Trafalgar's main demographic are the 55-65 travellers.

London

Head of Sales and Marketing in Contiki Asia, Kevin Khor says Contiki’s Backstage Pass exclusive inclusions and the #NOREGRETS philosophy to travel continue to lead the way into 2014 as they have resonated so strongly with travel agents and the global youth market since being introduced 12 months ago.

“The Backstage Pass has been a hit succinctly describing the exclusive and unmatched value proposition Contiki delivers such as; exclusive inclusions, ME Time for independent discovery or optional activities, exclusive accommodation in some of the best stays in Europe, authentic regional cuisine plus the services of a professional and highly-trained team,” he says.

“The blend of Me Time (free time) and included European Blockbusters and Backstreets show Contiki travellers the real Europe and gives them the ability to customise their trip, making every moment count in line with our #NOREGRETS philosophy.” 

Mykonos

Khor says the value, proposition and service of Contiki in Europe has been built over more than 50 years. Travellers see the benefits across the programme whichever Camping, Concept or Time-Out trip they pick. 

“Whether it’s enjoying a guided tour and priority entrance to the Vatican Museum in Rome; a bike tour in Munich; a wine tasting at our very own Chateau de Cruix; or a cruise and dinner in Budapest Contiki gives 18-35s unrivalled insider access that our 400 team members across Europe deliver,” he says. 

“No other company can give youth travellers better access to Europe – we know the best places to stay and where to get the best regional cuisine.”

Paris

In 2014, there is more free WiFi at Contiki’s chosen accommodation and virtually all Contiki coaches also offer WiFi so young travellers can stay connected and share their travel experiences.

New trips are an 8-day Greek Sailing trip to the Saronic Coast hotspots visiting little known gems like Hydra, Nafplio and Aegina priced from US$1,250 per person; and a 4-day Oktoberfest in Munich festival departure priced from US$289 per person. 

The popular 10-day Mediterranean Trail, priced from US$1,995 per person, now includes two nights in Corfu adding a Greek Island offering to an Italian favourite.

Just last week, Contiki unveiled a new-look website with an all new trade booking engine. Khor says agents can expect 18-35s to be inspired to see Europe the Contiki way in 2014.

New departure dates to Europe during summer 2014 out today and open for booking. *Contiki’s early payment discount offers savings of up to 10% (US$680) for bookings made and paid in full by 12 February, 2014.

For more information, please visit www.contiki.com and don’t forget to follow Contiki on Facebook and on Twitter with its #NOREGRETS hash tag. Use CONTIKICHA To get as much as 10% discount when you book your trip.

Note: All the above photos are from Contiki.

JOLLIBEE: #ChoiceKoYumAwards2013

JOLLIBEE: #ChoiceKoYumAwards2013

Julia Barretto and MYX VJ Chino

The Filipino youth has spoken! 

The Filipino youth cast their votes for their favorite celebrities and personalities who were then honored during the Jollibee #ChoiceKoYumAwards2013 held last November 4, 2013 at Music Museum, Greenhills Shopping Center, San Juan City.  

Alodia Gosiengfiao

Kudos to all the winners as well as to the event organizers, Jollibee Foods Corp. ("Jollibee") and MYX Philippines.

The awarding ceremony was so inspiring that you could see it from the enthusiastic faces of the audience that night. The event was co-hosted by Julia Barreto who happened to be voted as the “Local Choice Female Hearthrob.”

On the other hand, Enrique Gil was voted as the “Local Choice Male Heartthrob."

Mikey Bustos got the “Choice Internet Sensation” award which he says he dedicates to his family in Canada who he misses so much. He was one of the presenters at the Jollibee #ChoiceKoYumAwards2013.

TV host and actress Anne Curtis was chosen by the youth as the “Local Choice Fashion Style Icon” while TV personality and blogger Bianca Gonzales got the “Local Choice Social Media Celebrity” award.

Pop Singer Sarah Geronimo bagged the “Local Choice Performer” award. 

Singer Yeng Constantino’s song “Chinito” won the “Local Choice Music Video” and “Local Choice Song of the Year.”

Callalily was chosen as the “Local Choice Band” while Chico and Delamar got the “Local Choice DJ” award.

Rachel Daquis

Here are other of winners that night in the following categories:

Foreign Entertainment:

Foreign Choice Band: One Direction
Foreign Choice Performer: One Direction
Foreign Choice Female Heartthrob: Selena Gomez
Foreign Choice Male Heartthrob: Zayn Malik
Foreign Choice Song of the year: Best Song Ever
Foreign Choice Music Video: Best Song Ever
Foreign Choice Style Icon: Louis Tomlinson

Youth:

Choice Rising Performer: MAC Dancers (AdU)
Choice Athlete: Rachel Daquis (FEU Alumnus)
Choice Campus Cutie (Female): Kate leong (AdU)
Choice Campus Cutie (Male): Daniel Velasco (ADMU)

Lifestyle:

Choice Super Hero: Ironman
Choice Dance Craze: Gentleman
Choice Teen Beats: Rock
Choice Flick: Romantic Comedy
Choice Social Hashtag: #TBT
Choice Fitness Challenge: Running
Choice Sport: Basketball
Choice Barkada Trip: Palawan
Choice Kilig Date: Weekend Getaway
Choice Fashion: Street Style

Jollibee Choice Ko Yum awards night will be aired on Nov. 21 at MYX TV channel.

The youth from various schools showed their support to the celebrity and personality from where they got inspired the most! Those who voted got to watch the awards night and took home prizes from Jollibee including one (1) year supply of Jollibee Yum Burger!

Choice Ko Yum! Awards 2013 are divided in three categories:

Lifestyle – From fashion to flicks, tunes to travels, sports and social media. These are the picks that define today’s’ generation and their diverse interests.

Youth Personalities - Hard-court heroes and heartthrobs, remarkable role models and thrilling talents. These are the stars of different schools and universities.

Entertainment – Whether in TV, film or music, style or social media, these are the homegrown and international favorites that have captured the hearts of young Pinoys. The dynamic Filipino youth, aged 13 to 35 years old, who voted for their influencers got not only tickets to the exciting awards night but also different prizes such as one (1) year supply of Jollibee Yum Burger!

The youth had made a wonderful choice and pick the local celebrities and personalities that they wanted to see at the Choice Ko Yum! Awards Night!

CROCS: Lifesaver Shoes

CROCS: Lifesaver Shoes

I was wearing my pair of Crocs Shoes when I went to Rockwell Center in Makati City the other week. And boy was I glad that I wore that particular pair of shoes that day. My pair of Crocs Shoes is really a life saver!

Why?

YUMMY TREAT: Free Treat Just For You

YUMMY TREAT: Free Treat Just For You

Uso pa ba ang libre? My angel has great news for you my dear readers!

If you are a resident of Metro Manila, you might tell me that it is next to impossible. Or maybe you'll tell me that you got a lot of treat when you went out during Halloween two nights ago and did the old-fashioned "trick or treat."

Forget that!  You could simply find your perfect match and enjoy our treat for you!

Just follow 5 easy instructions at my rafflecopter below to get our treat! Don't forget to print your coupon (voucher) plus bring a valid ID. Strictly one treat per person only.

So, what are you waiting for? Tell your family and friends about this treat and don't forget to "like" my blog on Facebook! Smile always! Enjoy!

Wait for the rafflecopter to load...click ninyo if ayaw ... 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Important Note: The treat can only be claimed at the designated redemption location from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. only. Thank you.

HOW TO COMMUTE TO U.P. TOWN CENTER

HOW TO COMMUTE TO U.P. TOWN CENTER

Hooray! There is a new mall in town! The problem in trying to visit a new mall is that even if you "google" how to go to the new mall named "U.P. Town Center" you'll get minimal search result.

As a public service, I decided to commute so I could share to you how to go to U.P. Town Center which is located along Katipunan Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City. 

It is named after U.P. because the land where it stands is being leased from the University of the Philippines (U.P.) by Ayala Land Inc., the developer of U.P. Town Center.

If you're coming from TriNoma or SM North Edsa in Quezon City:

• Look for and ride the jeepney with "U.P. Diliman" signage. Fare is only Php11.00.
• Alight at the first jeepney stop right after The Oblation at U.P. Diliman. 
• Ride another jeepney with the "Katipunan" signage. Fare is only Php8.00.
• Along Katipunan Avenue, alight in front of the pedestrian overpass which is just several meters away from U.P. Town Center. Cross the pedestrian overpass and walk towards U.P. Town Center.

I walked because you can never buy exercise. Ha ha ha! Enjoy! Take extra care when going up and down the stairs of the pedestrian overpass.

U.P. TOWN CENTER: A One-Stop Food Haven

U.P. TOWN CENTER: A One-Stop Food Haven

U.P. Town Center gives you great cuisine combined with cozy and fun ambiance. Strategically located within the 7.4-hectare U.P. Diliman East Campus property along Katipunan Avenue, the U.P. Town Center is Ayala Malls’ newest development that has both retail and office components, with emphasis on academic support facilities especially designed to promote a close collaboration with the academe.

U.P. Town Center is a haven for students, professors and young professionals who want to unwind after a stressful day at the campus. Experience a fresh take on dining concepts in a relaxing indoor-and-outdoor environment perfect for bonding and nurturing relationships.

Recently, I was invited to an exclusive press tour dubbed as “food crawl” at the U.P. Town Center, “a one-stop destination for exciting dining outlets." Of the 28 merchants in the first phase of this newly opened Ayala Mall along Katipunan Avenue in Quezon City, 26 are restaurants. 

We were supposed to sample the dishes and drinks offered by 11 of these food establishments with different concepts within one day. But due to time constraints and full stomach, we were not able to visit all of the 11 restaurants assigned to us that day.

American’s favorite food has never been this good with 8 Cuts Burger Blends. 8 Cuts brings a new level of fun to the art of handcrafted burgers, along with chef-prepared sides, starters and salads made in-house daily. Its name is a reference to the eight cuts of beef used in the blends— chuck, rib eye, short rib, sirloin, brisket, hanger, flank and ox tail. All patties are made in-house from 100% pure U.S. beef.

You’ll never go wrong dining in The Primary Kitchen Bar. It is a modern Mediterranean bar restaurant which serves food with predominant Spanish, Italian and Greek flavors, and an exquisite list of Latin and other standard cocktail mixes. The Primary Kitchen Bar also serves an eminent choice of local, premium, imported beers and spirits. Aside from the sumptuous array of foods they offer, you’ll also fall in love with the bar’s signature drinks combined with the fantastic customer service of their employees. Thumbs up indeed!

Conceptualized from New York and inspired by the TV series Mad Men is Liberty New York Steak House. Liberty makes different types of steaks such as the Flank steak, US Rib Eye, Porterhouse, and Swiss Steak. It also offers side dishes, from roasted summer vegetables to cheddar and bacon or spam potatoes. Also included in their menu are healthy and diet-ready salads with Calamari, other seafood, steak or chicken. To top that, they have other specialties, which vary from time to time such as wraps and sandwiches, small plates for people with small appetite, and pastries for desserts.

Have a taste of what Salu-Salo has in store for certified foodies. A step up from the ordinary, their dishes are utterly amazing. You’ll never think twice of coming back to this amazing restaurant who’s serving the best of Filipino food and many more.

Gratify yourself after a long day’s work with a good cup of tea at Tea Rock. Tea Rock is a local milk tea brand which is a combined New York, Los Angeles and Tokyo café concept. Aside from teas, they also have juices, frappes and smoothies. Included in their menu are the best sellers in Taiwan- the Lemon Green Tea and English Black Tea with ice cream. They are also serving tasty meals and snacks.

Welcome yourself to Manila’s cupcake wonderland at The Vanilla Cupcake Bakery. It offers a wide variety of cupcake flavors and an ambiance worthy of your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. It is truly a go-to haven of every sweet tooth. Definitely freshly baked every day, using only the finest ingredients put into every bite, it's no wonder people are on VCB cupcake craze.

Ayala Malls’ U.P. Town Center promises an everyday full of smiles, laughter and fond memories with the finest establishments to capture your greatest moments.