Discover a Safe Way to Combat Vaginal Dryness

Feminine hygiene is not such a sensitive topic nowadays as seen in TV commercials about various products for women's most delicate body part. However, many Filipinas remain very reticent when it comes to discussing physical problems that have to do with intimacy.

I am sharing with you a writeup about a product for women who are undergoing menopause or who experience pain and dryness during sexual intercourse. I hope that this may be able to help women who still can't bring themselves to talk about their condition even to a doctor.

Press Release:

During the natural course of a woman's maturity, several changes are present in puberty, pregnancy, and, of course, menopause. These changes can bring about symptoms that manifest physically, emotionally, and physiologically.

One of these symptoms is feeling a sudden fatigue after doing the same old routine you've been doing for a long time. This inexplicable fatigue can be followed by hot and cold flushes that can trigger irritability and impatience. These symptoms however can still be endured without any eliciting further physical pain. But there is one condition most women go through but dare not talk about.

Characterized by tightness due to lack of moisture in the vaginal walls, resulting to pain and discomfort, vaginal atrophy can be considered as the heaviest baggage menopause brings. And sadly, most women who suffer this often opt for self medication using ordinary lubricants.

Dr. Bernabe Marinduque, Cosmetic Gynecologist and Medical Director of Beverly Hills 6750, sees this situation as normal, especially in a society like the Philippines. The treatment of sex and all that has got to do with it as a taboo is still very big, that is why women lack the proper education regarding these kinds of conditions.

Combining the taboo-like treatment of sexual health in the society, plus the lack of proper medications available in the country make vaginal atrophy hard to eradicate. However, a breakthrough technology that is making waves in the US has finally landed on Philippine shores. Scientifically proven safe and effective, Replens is an FDA-approved vaginal moisturizer that works better than the usual store-brought lubricants.

Made with polycarbopil, hydrogenated palm oil and mineral oil, Replens provides no harmful side effects like irritation even when used regularly. Once applied, it stays in the vaginal area for three days without the need to reapply or the fear of dripping that most lubricants bring. Unlike most medications, Replens does not have any hormones or estrogen; instead it encourages the vagina to produce its own secretion, thus preventing dryness. It is a safe alternative to hormone replacement therapy.

Nobody deserves to be gripped by vaginal atrophy. Use Replens for comfort that lasts longer and live everyday without worry, pain and discomfort.

Replens is available upon request in all Mercury Drugstore nationwide. For more inquiries, please contact New Marketlink Pharmaceutical Corporation at 836-5838 to 47.

There is also another product called RepHresh that is recommended for younger women. Please click here to read more about it.

Acer, Microsoft Unveil First Windows 7-powered Slate in the Philippines

Heads up techies! You'll probably love this one :)

Press Release:

Last March 24, Microsoft Philippines and Acer Philippines launched two new products from the Acer Iconia line powered by the Windows 7 operating system which is designed to redefine the way people use the computer.

The Acer Iconia Tab W500 is the first Windows 7-powered slate to become available in the local market. The Acer Iconia Tab W500 offers Filipinos the best of both worlds, giving them the freedom to work on either a slate or a netbook for an optimized mobile computing system, likewise empowering them with increased productivity, better management and security of a Windows device all at the same time. Also launched was the Acer ICONIA - 484G64ns which features a dual multi-touch display that intuitively expands users’ content consumption experience.

With Microsoft’s platform powering these devices, Filipinos can benefit from an environment that they trust and know best, with an enhanced and enjoyable computing experience allowing users to get more things done.

“We are very excited to showcase the innovations that Acer is launching on top of the Windows platform,” said John Bessey, Managing Director, Microsoft Philippines. “We are definitely taking Windows 7 to the next level by driving new experiences for users while providing them with the familiarity and confidence in using a platform that they trust,” said Bessey.

“It is our pleasure to be partnering with Microsoft in providing users with the ultimate computing experience with our new Iconia products running on Windows 7,” said Manuel Wong, General Manager, Acer Philippines. “With Windows 7 on Acer devices, users are given more control over how they want to work and the assurance that the data they consume is backed by a reliable operating system.”

The Acer ICONIA - 484G64ns is equipped with a dual multi-touch display which is made from the ultra-thin, extremely durable and scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass and has accurate multi-point touch detection and palm-contact rejection for optimized on-screen input. It is also equipped with the Acer Ring Control Interface, and comes with the Gesture Editor to let users customize touch gestures to launch specific applications and other actions.

On the other hand, the Acer Iconia Tab W500 features a hybrid design, which offers the perfect HD multi-touch slate portability, and the full productivity of a standard notebook via a dockable keyboard. It is a handy multi-touch slate at about 1kg light with a 10.1-inch HD LED-backlit LCD display, which makes it easy to fit into any backpack. It also features the multi-touch Acer Ring control interface, a fast and intuitive entry point for launching Acer’s touch applications and built-in utilities and tools.

Powering these devices is Microsoft’s Windows 7, currently the fastest-selling and most rapidly deployed OS in history, with 200 million licenses sold so far. Windows 7 provides a streamlined interface that is free from desktop clutter and helps users find what they need – fast. It simplifies everyday tasks with enhanced features and shortcuts, making everyday tasks easier to accomplish.

Microsoft’s flagship operating system works the way users want with faster startup, resuming and shut down time, equipped with enhanced power management, advanced backup capabilities and the free Microsoft Security Essentials download to help protect users against viruses, spyware and other malicious software.

It also provides an integrated user experience with other widely-used products such as Microsoft Office 2010, which lets users stay in control of their work. The device will also be able to seamlessly co-exist with other corporate devices (PCs, smartphones), making it a viable product for corporations as well. It works with majority of existing enterprise applications with no added workarounds, can be managed centrally and is equipped with encryption and security features.

Kaspersky Lab detects twice the number of mobile threats in 2010

Please read. Important information for those who use Smartphones and even those who have basic mobile phones ...

Press Release:

A new report from software security firm Kaspersky Lab shows that mobile device threats have steadily increased over 2010, owing it to the popularity of Google's Android operating system. Over 1,000 variants of 153 “families” of mobile device threats were found between August 2009 and December 2010, accounting for 65 percent increase during this period.

In the report Mobile Malware Evolution: An Overview, Part 4, Kaspersky Lab senior malware analayst Denis Maslennikov said the list of platforms targeted by malicious programs expanded considerably in 2010.

The growing popularity of the Android platform has inevitably drawn the cybercriminals attention: in August 2010, the first malicious program targeting android was detected, and since then, that number has reached 15 programs from a total of 7 families. The first threats targeting Apple's iPhone OS also appeared during this last reporting period, but infected only devices that had been jailbroken in order to install third-party games and other software not manufactured by Apple.

Most mobile threats continue to target the Java 2 micro edition (J2ME) platform, which is supported by a huge number of mobile devices. That means it is not only smartphones that are at risk of infection, but basic mobile phones as well. The second most-targeted platform is Symbian, with Python in third place.

“The use of SMS Trojans is still the easiest and most effective means by which malicious users can earn money. The reason is relatively simple: any mobile device, be it a smartphone or a basic mobile phone, has a direct connection to its owner’s money via their mobile account. It is this ‘direct connection’ that cybercriminals actively exploit,” explains Maslennikov.

From 2010 onwards, sending fee-based text messages ceased to be the sole illegal money-making scheme for virus writers developing threats targeting different platforms. Other unlawful schemes such as redirecting mobile internet banking users to phishing sites and stealing passwords sent by banks to mobile phones were also used. Mobile threats have become more complex than ever and include the emergence of mobile bots and other remotely-controlled software.

“This means that attacks launched by mobile threats have reached a completely new level,” Maslennikov says.

Kaspersky Lab predicts an increase in the number of vulnerabilities found on mobile platforms, as well as an increase in the number of threats for android and the continued use of short numbers by cybercriminals.

Nutrient supplement for cancer patients launched

This product is not only for cancer patients but also for those who have nutritional issues.

Press Release:

A leading healthcare solutions provider New Marketlink Pharmaceuticals Corporation (NMPC) has introduced Resurgex Select, a patented, nutritional drink especially formulated for cancer patients.

Highly recommended by oncologists in the U.S., the low-sugar, high-protein Resurgex Select is a high calorie nutritional supplement and a meal replacement for patients undergoing treatments for diseases such as cancer.

“Proper nutrition is essential to cancer patients undergoing long treatments,” said nutritional oncologist Dr. Romula S. de Villa, MD, PhD, who was present during the launch.

Dr. de Villa said cancer patients experience food aversion and other side effects which may reduce food intake and result in weight loss, which prevents patients vulnerable to infections from continuing with their treatment.

Resurgex Select’s patented composition helps patients restore lean muscle mass, increase energy, and support the immune system.

Its special formulation also allows easy mixing with other drinks like juices or milk and food like oatmeal or yogurt. Its fruit smoothie flavor easily appeals to Filipinos’ taste and is more palatable to patients suffering from taste alteration.

Each serving of Resurgex Select contains a healthy combination of high quality whey protein, complex carbohydrates, essential fats like Omega-3, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), fruit and vegetable extracts, whole food concentrates, and beneficial fibers.

Further, it contains fructooligosaccharides, a class of indigestible sugars used for growth of beneficial bacteria in the colon that enhance the body’s digestion and absorption of nutrients, detoxification, and immune system.

Resurgex Select is now sold in leading drugstores nationwide.

Warning to Real Estate Investors

Press Release: The CFA Institute Calls for Stronger Governance as Philippines Finalize Own REIT Legislation 

Investors Beware – REITs Governance and Fees can significantly impact your investment

As the Philippines continuously work to process finalization of its REIT legislation, CFA Institute, the global association of investment professionals, released its report “Asia-Pacific REITs: Building Trust Through Better REIT Governance” from its Hong Kong office. The report aims to provide a guide on effective governance structures for regulators and industry participants in new or prospective Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) structures and help regulators in existing REIT markets improve their current REIT governance standards and minimize conflicts of interest between external management and REIT unitholders.

According to the report, the Philippine REIT Law or Republic Act No. 9856 was incorporated into law in December 2009. However, the country is still in the process of finalizing the legislation and expects to have its first REIT listed this year.

“REITs provide many benefits to investors including a high yield, pass-through taxation and diversification, however despite these REIT governance remains far from adequate. Better REIT governance structures and regulations will increase trust and confidence and facilitate growth in new and prospective markets,” said Mr. Lee Kha Loon, CFA, head of Standards and Financial Market Integrity – Asia Pacific at CFA Institute.

The report reviews governance practice in the four largest REIT markets in the region (Australia, Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong) and examines ways to rebuild investor trust through better governance structures. REIT sponsors, managers, and unitholders often have different and occasionally conflicting interests, therefore, structural reforms are called for to protect investor interests in REITs.

Case studies cited in the report demonstrate weaknesses of current governance practices and the effect on REIT unitholders, including limiting the potential for acquisition of a REIT at favorable prices because of conflicted interests of the dominant unitholder; REIT fee structures that reward growth in assets at the expense of value creation; manager entrenchment and the potential conflicts from related party transactions among various interests associated with a REIT.

The report proposes important changes to existing REITs regulations under the current regulatory structures. In addition, the report proposes a model governance structure for REITs. It recommends REIT management to be internally managed rather than outsourced; an independent board of directors subject to election and removal by unitholders; annual general meetings for REITs to afford unitholders opportunity to meet and query REIT management; approval by independent unitholders of related party transactions; and a limit on majority unitholder positions of 50 percent of the issued units, to better align interests and preserve minority unitholder tax pass-through benefits.

"Given the infancy of some REIT markets in Asia and the potential for growth in new markets, we believe better governance will help in long term value creation for the investor," said Lee.

More information is available by accessing the report on CFA Institute website or contacting Mr. Lee Kha Loon.

BPI at 160, Opens Biggest Auto Madness yet, Goes International

Looking to buy a new car and get reasonable car financing? Read on ...

Press Release:

This year, as BPI celebrates its 160th year leading in the financial and banking industry, it stays true to its promise of innovation and leadership as it takes the level of BPI Family Auto Madness several notches higher. For the first time in its history, BPI Family Auto Madness has spawned from a provincial car show into an International Auto Show as BPI Family co-presents the 2011 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) on April 7-11, 2011 at the World Trade Center.

“We pioneered the Auto Madness 13 years ago in Cebu where it became such a huge success that we brought it to a national scale in 2009,” says Mr. David Sarmiento, Jr., SVP and Head of Auto and Motorcycle Loans Division. “We see the continued and rising interest of Filipinos to have their own vehicles and with a passion to make it easy for them to drive not just vehicles, but their dream cars, we ensure that we give them the best venue and deals every year. This year, Auto Madness goes international as we present the BPI Family Auto Madness at the 7th Manila International Auto Show.”

This year’s auto madness will see the continuation of the FREE GPS Promo to complement brand new vehicles that will be financed by BPI Family Auto Loan for personal use with a minimum amount financed of Php 700,000.00 and a loan term of 36 months. The FREE GPS promo is also available at all participating dealers nationwide.

Clients also experience the convenience of onsite approval, free Petron-BPI MasterCard with free fuel and fuel rebates, and flexible payment terms over a wide range of channels such as, auto debit arrangement, Express Online, Express Phones, ATM and through over the counter payments.

For more details on getting a BPI Family Auto Loan, interested individuals can call up call (02) 845-6777 or visit www.bpiloans.com or any of the over 800 BPI or BPI Family Savings Bank branches throughout the country.

Photo shows key representatives of BPI Family and World Bex 

“honk” a symbolic steering wheel to launch this landmark partnership. 

(From L-R) Mr. Joseph Ang, Chairman of Worldbex Services International; 

Mr. David Sarmiento, Jr., BFSB SVP and Head of Auto and Motorcycle Loans; 

and Mr. Herbert Tuason, BFSB VP and Head of Product Marketing.

Robert Pattinson & Reese Witherspoon Team Up for "Water for Elephants"

I like period pieces so I think I'd enjoy watching this movie ...

Press Release:

Oscar winning actress Reese Witherspoon stars opposite global heartthrob Robert Pattinson in the sweeping drama, “Water For Elephants” based on bestselling tome by Sara Gruen set during the Depression era.

“Water For Elephants” is an original and compelling story that takes the audience back in time to 1931, when the circus offered a welcome escape from the rigors of daily life and economic hardship. Robert Pattinson plays Jacob, a talented student, heading for a career as a vet. His world changes dramatically when he discovers that his parents have died in an accident. Destitute, he has to abandon his studies and look for work. He boards a train out of town and only later does he realize that he has joined a circus train.

Drawn to Marlena, the radiant and talented equestrian star of the ‘”Benzini Bros.’ Most Spectacular Show on Earth,” he accepts a job taking care of the animals. The relationship between Marlena and Jacob develops furtively. Already married to the moody, possessive and dangerously abusive August (Christoph Waltz), the ringmaster who runs the show, Marlena secretly develops a relationship with Jacob. Both Jacob and Marlena form close bonds with Rosie, the dignified and graceful elephant who has a central role in the film.

Directed by Francis Lawrence who also helmed global hits “Constantine” starring Keanu Reeves and “I Am Legend” starring Will Smith, “Water For Elephants” introduces us to an era long gone bedecked with the circus’ thrilling backdrop where an exciting and moving love story unfolds. 

Asked in a recent interview on his choice of Robert and Reese, Lawrence enthuses -“Reese was the first person I cast in the film and she was a great creative partner in the early days when we were putting this project together. I think she is a fantastic actress. She has a timeless beauty, she loves animals and has no fear of trying anything. Also the character Marlena in our film is a bit tough and hardened. She isn’t a victim and Reese is tough. She is very strong.” 

He also notes that Robert is the only right one to play Jacob - “I decided to cast Rob after sitting down with him for a couple of hours. After that I thought he was naturally perfect for Jacob Jankowski. It was tough to try and find a young man of 23 or 24 who didn’t feel like a boy. Rob was already becoming a man. He is thoughtful, intelligent, empathetic, strong and confident while still being a bit uncomfortable in his own skin,” Lawrence concludes. 

“Water For Elephants” opens very soon in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

Fighting a Child's Fever

Press Information:

Fever is common in young children. It is the body’s natural defense against infections. When your child has an infection, your child’s body will activate its immune system and raise its temperature above normal to fight it. The normal range of body temperature at the armpit is between 34.7 and 37.4 C. The Asian Pediatric Fever Working Group defines fever as a rise in temperature over 37.5 C.

If you have young children, it is best to always have a digital thermometer handy in your home. Due to the potential for mercury exposure or ingestion, glass mercury thermometers have been phased out and are no longer recommended.

See the doctor immediately if your child:

* Has a convulsion

* Is difficult to awaken

* Has difficulty swallowing, feeding or drinking

* Is sitting quietly and the fontanelle (soft spot in the top of the head) is bulging

* Has signs of dehydration

* Is listless or irritable, has a very bad headache or stomachache, vomits repeatedly or has any other symptoms causing significant discomfort

* Has a temperature of 39 C or higher (or 38 C for children less than 3 months)

* Has a fever lasting more than 3 to 5 days

* Cries if you touch or move him or her

* Has redness, swelling or tenderness around the eye, arm or leg

* Walks with a limp or refuses to move a leg or arm

* Has difficulty breathing even after his nose is cleared

* Has purple spots on the skin that do not blanch (turn white) when pressed firmly

Also consult the doctor if:

* You are worried about the child’s condition

* You feel that you are unable to care for the child

When it comes to fever relief, UBM Medica explains that Paracetamol is one of the safest and most commonly used over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.

The correct dose of Paracetamol does not depend on the child’s age, but on his weight. The optimum dose of Paracetamol is 15 mg per kilogram. In other words, if your child weighs 10 kg he should be given 150 mg Paracetamol per dose. This dose should be given once every 4 – 6 hours, up to 4 times per day if needed. Remember that ‘mg’ is a measure of weight and ‘mL’ is a measure of fluid volume. For your convenience and to ensure your child gets the right amount of medication for his fever, children’s Paracetamol (Calpol) provides a weight-based dosage table on the bottle and box labels for your easy reference.

Pediatricians agree, weight based dosing of Paracetamol is always the right way to go to fight your child’s fever.

References:

Fever in House! A Parents’ guide to dealing with Fever. Asian Pediatric Fever Working Group.

Mayo Clinic Website

Dr. Michael Jones, Medical Editor, UBM Medica Australia Website*

*UBM Medica is a leading healthcare media company providing solutions to a global healthcare market. They provide reference data, decision support solutions, news and education to communities of general practitioners, specialist doctors, pharmacists, nurses and patients.

DOH Launches Health Fiesta Caravan

Press Release:

The Department of Health (DoH) recently launched a health promotion campaign, aiming to bring critical information on healthy practices to Filipino families, especially those in rural barangays.

Called Lakbay Buhay Kalusugan (LBK), the health fiesta was attended by some 1,500 Aetas from Barangay Sta. Juliana in Capas, Tarlac last March 3. With their children and family members, Aeta women living on the slopes of Mt. Pinatubo came down to receive maternal health services including pre-natal check up and counseling, and participate in entertaining and educational activities.

DoH director on health promotion Asuncion Anden said the LBK aims to make health information more engaging and memorable. “We know that we learn best in an atmosphere of fun and comfort. This is the LBK experience.”

Tarlac governor Victor Yap lauded the efforts of the DoH in implementing its health reform agenda on Universal Access to Health.

“Making health and medical services readily accessible to the public has always been one of the priorities of the province. And with programs like LBK promoting health prevention and education in a fun and entertaining approach, we can look forward to a future when households will be competent enough to keep their families healthy and productive,” Yap said.

The campaign features a bus that provides basic health information and is used as a mobile counseling and examination clinic for women and children. The bus serves as the central attraction of the health fiesta where people can learn about health practices through an interactive exhibit, entertainment shows, and other fun activities.

The LBK health fiesta caravan will travel to 10 provinces in its first year. Among the stops are Tarlac, Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija in Luzon; Bohol and Negros Occidental in the Visayas; Bukidnon, Zamboanga del Norte, Compostela Valley, South Cotabato, and Maguindanao in Mindanao.

LBK is supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), Victory Liner Inc., Melawares, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Air21, OMF Literature, Green Cross, Dakila – Philippine Collective for Modern Heroism, Center for Community Journalism and Development, Manila Broadcasting Company, UNTV, Philippine Press Institute, and the Alliance of Young Nurse Leaders and Advocates International, Inc.

Summer's Heat List: “RIO” in 3D

Get ready to watch one of the best animated movies for 2011!

Press Release:

From the makers of the worldwide hit “Ice Age” series comes “Rio,” a heartwarming story about a bird named Blu, featuring the voices of today’s well-loved actors Jesse Eisenberg and Anne Hathaway. Filmmaker Carlos Saldanha concocts a sparkling view of scenic Brazil, danceable beat by Will.i.am and Jamie Foxx with an endearing coming-of-age story to make another animation masterpiece in “Rio.”

The story begins when poachers take a rare Macaw named Blu (Jesse Eisenberg) away from his home in Rio De Janeiro when he is a baby chick. Once transported to the US, Blu is adopted by Linda (Leslie Mann), a shy girl who runs a bookshop and turned Blu in a domesticated pet and friend. When scientists find out that Blu is the last of his kind and they have found a female in Rio called Jewel (Anne Hathaway), they took the chance to get them together to save the species. Both Linda and Blu are initially very hesitant about leaving their home to go to this exotic place, but then took the leap and found their way in the exotic land where Blu came from.

Having been domesticated, Blu being outgoing and fun with Linda at home, finds himself in a fix arriving in Brazil. Blu never learned to fly, living a comfortable life with his owner and best friend Linda in the small town of Moose Lake, Minnesota. Kidnapped by a group of animal smugglers, and with his new friends by his side, Blu will have to find the courage to learn to fly, thwart the kidnappers who are hot on their trail, and return to Linda, the best friend a bird ever had.

“Rio” opens April 7 in theaters from 20th Century Fox to be distributed by Warner Bros.

South Pacific Golf and Leisure Estates: Where Nature and Nurture Coexist

Wanna own a property in Davao, Philippines? Check this development out!

Press Release:

A wave of development may come upon the quiet shores of an unspoiled land. But as long proven by the real estate company, Sta. Lucia, natural beauty does not need to be compromised for the sake of progress.

A testament to this is the South Pacific Golf and Leisure Estates—the company’s sprawling development in a quiet town in Davao City. In a place that was said to be one of the future cities in Asia, South Pacific is picturesque community stands as a marriage between two formidable parties—a top real estate developer and a premier city in Mindanao.

“South Pacific echoes the very beauty of Davao City,” said Liezel Tuason-Magpoc, the Vice President for Sales and Marketing of Sta. Lucia’s marketing arm, Orchard Property Marketing Corporation (OPMC). “It features the most enticing qualities of the area coupled with the modern amenities and conveniences Sta. Lucia has been known to provide.”

Known for being an innovator in the Philippine real estate market, the developer has made use of a design philosophy that it is known for: it takes the best of what a land has to offer and accentuates it. Thus, South Pacific became the first leisure development that brings together the arresting seaside allure of the marina, the peaceful ambiance of a country club and the added amenity of a world-class golf course. Overall, it was designed to be a captivating relaxation spot more than fit to be called “home.”

South Pacific is strategically located in Catalunan Pequeno. It is a 20-minute drive away from the town proper. Its Bali Hai Beach Club in Talikud Island is a 45 minute boat ride from Sta. Ana wharf. Meanwhile, the calming majesty of Davao’s seaside grandeur inspires both mental and spiritual calm.

“Generally, the people of Davao have always been enamored by the sea,” said Magpoc. “Therefore, Sta. Lucia decided to channel that and use it to fully accentuate the charm of the land.”

But for those who seek recreation without having to leave the estates, South Pacific also has a number of features dedicated to offer a life of luxury. One of its best offerings which is currently being constructed is the 18-hole Arnold Palmer full-length golf course. Each hole will be designed strategically to pose a healthy challenge to players while offering distinctive views of Davao’s natural allure. It will also offer a golf clubhouse fully equipped with a lounge, a driving range as well as shower and locker rooms.

Meanwhile, lot owners can already start building their home at South Pacific and start enjoying its conveniences and amenities such as a multi-purpose clubhouse, a basketball court, a tennis court, picnic grounds and a swimming pool.

But even with all these modern facilities accounted for, the fresh breeze of air remains undiluted, the lush backdrop of greenery remains visible and South Pacific remains true to its goal—to give the best that Davao has to offer.

Enjoy your home and nature. Call (082) 221-9444 and ask about the Celebrating Milestones promo for South Pacific buyers.

Jollibee's March 2011 Kids Meal Feature Rango Collectibles

Press Release:

Get into the Wild West action with Rango collectibles from Jollibee.

Kids who can’t get enough of one of 2011’s biggest animated flick Rango can enjoy the action and adventure with new toy collectibles from Jollibee. Featuring the endearing characters from the movie, the limited-edition Rango action figures will surely take kids on a roaring adventure across the Old West.

From March 1 to 31, kids can get their hands on the action-packed collectibles that come free with every Jollibee Kids Meal. Fans are set to embark on a classic western escapade with Step N’ Go Rango as they duel bandits and desert critters. Just wind up the knob on Rango’s side and watch him strut and swagger to save the day.

Boys and girls can go on an exciting voyage with Swirlin’ Ms. Beans. Press Ms. Beans’ head and tag along as she rotates her skirt in style across the desert plains.

The party won’t be complete without Spinnin’ Jake twisting his way into adventure. The show-stopping scaly villain, Jake’s head and tail can spin in different directions by winding up the knob on the bottom.

Jollibee Kids Meal offers children amazing toys inspired by the coolest movies on the big screen. With the exclusive Rango toy collectibles, boys and girls can say howdy to thrilling western exploits while enjoying the delicious goodness of Jollibee Kids Meals for only P75 to P99. So hurry! Hop on the railroad to Wild West fun and collect all Jollibee Kids Meal Rango toys now!

Catch Rango in cinemas on March 9, 2011.

March is Graduation Month at Museo Pambata!

FYI moms and dads!

Congratulations, graduates! To celebrate, Museo Pambata has free gift items waiting for the first 30 graduates who visit the museum! Only kids graduating from pre-school are eligible for the promo. Bring a diploma, graduation picture, or school ID.

ARTS COOL 2011! Enroll now in Museo Pambata's Arts Cool Summer Workshops! They have classses on Basic/Advanced Art, Storytelling, Creative Writing, and Musical Theater, as well as a Parent and Child Art Workshop! For inquiries, call or visit the museum. Workshops are on April 5 to April 30. For more information visit www.museopambata.org/artscool.htm

March 4

Kids Learn Fire Prevention!, 9 AM

March is Fire Prevention Month! Kids need to know how to keep safe and prevent fires. With the help of friends from the Association of Volunteer Fire Brigades, let's learn all about fire safety and firefighting equipments.

March 5

Anino sa Museo, 10 AM

Witness a performance of lights and shadows with Anino Shadowplay Collective as they tell songs, rhymes, and stories with shadowplay!

March 6

MP Guides Corner, 2 PM

Keep your photographs in special picture frames made out of scrap materials! The museum guides will show you how.

March 12

Paglaki ko, Gusto ko Maging Singer, 10 AM

Singers make their living by hitting the high notes! Learn from up and coming singer Dianne Eclar as she tell us what it’s like being a singer.

March 19

Ang Bayanihan sa Museo, 10 AM

Enjoy watching various Philippine dances with the Philippine National Folk Dance Company! Afterwards, join the performers as they teach you to dance along.

March 20

MP Guides Corner, 2 PM

Summer’s almost here; keep cool with your very own paper fan, which you can make with the museum guides!

March 26

Book on the Spot: Ang Barumbadong Bus, 2 PM

Out of the way! Kas the bus is out of control! Read about this reckless bus in a story written by Rene Villanueva, with illustrations by Jo Ann Bereber-Gando, and published by Adarna House.

All activities are subject to change without prior notice. Visit Museo Pambata at Roxas Blvd. Corner South Drive, Manila. Museum hours from Tuesday to Saturday are from 8 am to 5 pm and 1 to 5pm during Sundays. Admission fee is 100 pesos for children and adults, with special discounts for group tours. Manila residents with valid Ids are free on Tuesdays and can enjoy 50% off on fees on all other days. For more information, call 523-1797/98 and 536-0595 or email us info@museopambata.org

Ways to Fight Body Aging

Did you know? 70% of Filipino adults have been found to be aging faster than they should? (Myself included! Read my story in my other blog). Here are several sound tips from Mead Johnson Nutrition Philippines that can help you fight body aging with the Multi Defense Solution: simple lifestyle changes that will greatly affect your overall health.

EXERCISE.

You might be surprised at how exercising for at least 30 minutes a day in the morning can change your whole day. When endorphins are released into your bloodstream during exercise, you feel much more energized the rest of the day. Exercise not only improves your strength and stamina, it increases levels of serotonin in the brain as well-improving your overall mood for the day.

QUIT THOSE NASTY HABITS.

Whatever it is, whether smoking or excessive drinking, quit right now. Not only are nicotine and too much alcohol bad for your cholesterol and blood pressure levels, they can also speed up the aging process. Smoking for example has been proven to cause at least a 40% drop in the production of fresh collagen, the protein that helps skin stay flexible and resilient. A drop in collagen will lead to more wrinkles.

VISIT YOUR DOCTOR.

Get a medical check up at least once a year. Don’t wait for the day when you already feel bad or sick. Age-related illnesses like high blood pressure and hypertension may creep up on you without any symptoms. According to the World Health Organization, about 15 million people worldwide will suffer from a stroke this year. Alarmingly, half of the people with hypertension are unaware they have high blood pressure – the main cause of strokes.

ENJOY YOUR LIFE.

Balance your work life with some ‘me’ time – get a massage, meditate, or read a book. And to make sure you truly enjoy that time for yourself, disconnect! Turn off that cellphone, log out from your computer and clear your mind. Of course one of the best ‘me’ time you can have is sleep. Getting between 6 to 9 hours of sleep a day is known to help reduce your chances of hypertension, diabetes and memory loss. Sleeping is also the time your body gets to regenerate new cells.

EAT WELL.

Eating smart is not just about what you eat but also how you eat. Instead of having stir-fried pork, choose to grill or bake, so you take in less fat and oil. Even when eating fruits and vegetable salads, make sure they’re not smothered with high-fat dressings and fried toppings. Drink lots of water. Try adding a little lemon and honey to your water instead of gulping down excessively sweet beverages. Then supplement healthy eating with a glass of Sustagen Premium everyday.