Kwento Ni Toto: Advocacy

Showing posts with label Advocacy. Show all posts

Sunday, November 5, 2023

SM Prime & WWF-Philippines Unite for Future Sustainability Champs

Toto 10:16:00 AM

In a joint effort to prepare young student leaders for the vital task of safeguarding the environment in the future, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) and World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-Philippines) have unveiled the "YOUth are the Future" leadership program. This initiative focuses on educating and empowering the youth about environmental conservation, climate change, and sustainability concerns.

“There is no better time than now to educate the youth. As stewards of the planet, it is important that they have an opportunity to learn about environmental conservation, encourage them tovoice out their fresh ideas, and share new perspectives,” said WWF-Philippines Education for Sustainable Development Project Head Dino Calderon.

“When we provide our young student leaders with learning opportunities and expose them to practical solutions, we have a chance to help them design a sustainable future. We are committed to make sure that things change for the better,” says Hans “Chico” Sy, President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM sustainability champion.

Starting with a grand event on October 10, 2023, student ambassadors from different high schools in Metro Manila embarked on a guided tour of the SM Mall of Asia Complex. The tour highlighted SM Prime's sustainability initiatives and disaster preparedness practices. The official introduction of the "YOUth are the Future" Ambassadors took place at the SMX Convention Center, accompanied by a pinning ceremony. This significant gathering saw the participation of leaders and delegates from SM Prime, WWF-Philippines, government bodies, and foreign dignitaries.

In a message she delivered during the event, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga said, “Our journey is really about the race to resilience, as our climate changes, society is changing. Sustainability is our pathway to survival as a planet and that is what resilience is really about, the ability to withstand the impacts of the hazards that we know and those that we could face in the future.”

The youth ambassadors will participate in a three-day eco-camp at the Pico De Loro Beach and Country Club in November, where they will learn about waste and energy management, resource optimization, and climate mitigation and adaptation strategies from some of the country’s experts.

Renowned for its role in Olive Ridley Sea Turtle conservation, the 3-day eco camp in Hamilo Coast also serves as an immersive natural classroom in environmental conservation. The expected output from the eco-camp is a Green Manifesto that outlines their plans to effect change and a storybook module co-authored by all the participants. The program will culminate through a series of mall and school tours throughout Metro Manila to boost youth engagement and student ambassador recruitment.

In a message sent by her excellency Vice President and Department of Education Secretary Sara Z. Duterte, she said, “This visionary program embodies the transformative power of education and empowerment in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future. Taking advantage of this program will give you all a head start on becoming influential figures in creating a more sustainable and ecologically aware culture”.

Together with its partners, WWF-Philippines hopes to empower young Filipinos further to become the next generation of sustainability champions. Programs like YOUth are the Future, can help future generations become proactive leaders who can #ChangeTheEnding for the planet.

updates

SM Foundation's 2nd Rainwater Harvesting System Expands Sustainability

Toto 9:55:00 AM

Rainwater harvesting means collecting and saving rainwater for later. It's a good way to save water and not depend too much on regular water sources. Many old civilizations used it, and today, smart groups use it for eco-friendly water management.

SM Foundation, Inc., a part of the SM group focused on doing good for the community, has started using rainwater harvesting in two health centers they fixed up. They did this in Brgy. Irawan Birthing Facility in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and San Fernando, Cebu Primary Health Care Facility.

Health workers in San Fernando, Cebu Primary Healthcare Facility water the locally sourced plants using the water from the rainwater harvesting system

SMFI’s Health and Medical Programs proactively implemented this innovation to help sustain the health of the local community while preserving the environment.

Ready in times of emergency

Dr. Alfredo P. Manugas VI, Municipal Health Officer and Health Department Head of San Fernando, Cebu Primary Health Care Facility, said that while water is crucial to their operations, water supply is not always available in their municipality, even their center.

“The rainwater harvesting system is essential in our health facility because the water supply in our municipality is not available 24/7,” he said. “We are now provided a source of water in times of emergency or any interruption of water supply. Our staff and visitors can use rainwater for cleaning, flushing the toilet bowls, and watering the plants.”

SMFI Health and Medical Programs senior project manager Albert Uy runs through how the system functions.

SMFI ensures that the facility is convenient and manageable to maximize its purpose. It operates without electricity, increasing its sustainability. To harvest water for non-potable use, it collects rainwater from the roof and gutter. The water is filtered through vinyl-coated mesh filters to ensure its quality before being stored in the 800-liter storage tank.

To guide users for safe recycled water use, all faucets connected to the facility have visible labels. Alongside this innovation, SMFI also used air-cleaning paints, LED lighting fixtures and appliances, and locally sourced plants to create a clean and comfortable environment for patients and health workers.

These green innovations exemplify the SM group’s commitment to the environment and community health within the broader context of the SM Green Movement. With the social good impact of the two rainwater harvesting systems, SMFI targets to replicate this initiative in other health centers in its pipeline, further improving water security in the face of challenges.

Health workers use the rainwater harvesting system for their outdoor cleaning needs

Saturday, March 25, 2023

updates

SM Foundation provides life-saving aid to earthquake-ravaged communities in Turkey and Syria

Toto 7:55:00 AM

SM Foundation Inc. (SMFI) has extended a helping hand to Türkiye and Syria, two countries that were hit by devastating earthquakes. On February 27, 2023, SMFI sent aid through the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) to assist with relief efforts.

The aid was in the form of 200 units of gasoline generators, which were handed over to the PRC by SM Foundation Health and Medical Programs Executive Director Connie Angeles. These generators will provide power to the quake-stricken areas and will help to ensure that essential services, such as hospitals and emergency response centers, are able to operate.

SMFI’s Connie Angeles (second from left) hands the donation to PRC chairperson Dick Gordon (third from left). Joining the turnover are PRC Governor Ernesto Isla and PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang (first and fourth from left, respectively). Photo from PRC.

In addition to the generators, SM Foundation also donated Php5 million to assist with the needs of earthquake victims. This contribution will go towards providing food, water, shelter, and medical supplies to those affected by the disaster.

The earthquakes that hit Türkiye and Syria were both extremely powerful. The first earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.8, struck southeast Türkiye and northwest Syria, causing widespread damage and loss of life. This was followed by a magnitude 6.3 earthquake that hit southern Türkiye, leading to additional casualties and destruction.

SM Foundation's aid is an important gesture of solidarity with the people of Türkiye and Syria during this difficult time. The foundation has a long-standing commitment to supporting social good initiatives, and its efforts to provide assistance in the wake of natural disasters are just one example of its commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

PRC volunteers prepare to ship 200 units of gasoline generators donated by SM Foundation for quake-hit Türkiye and Syria. Photo from PRC.

To learn more about SM Foundation's social good programs, visit their website or follow their social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube: @SMFoundationInc.

Thursday, March 16, 2023

updates

Partnership in Conservation and Preservation, More than the Celebration of World Wildlife Day 2023

Toto 10:25:00 PM

World Wildlife Day is an annual celebration that takes place every 3rd day of March. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats. The United Nations General Assembly first declared March 3rd as World Wildlife Day in 2013, and it has been celebrated every year since then.

The theme for World Wildlife Day changes every year and it varies. The theme for this year, 2023 is "Partnerships in Wildlife Conservation". This year's theme emphasizes the importance partner agencies, organizations and individuals. Ensuring a greener future for the next generations is not just the work of a lone individual but of a collective effort from everyone living on this planet. To enjoy the benefits of a healthy and diverse natural world. The theme also highlights the need for collective action to address the threats facing wildlife and their habitats.

World Wildlife Day is an opportunity for people around the world to learn about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats. It is also a day to celebrate the achievements of conservation efforts and to raise awareness about the challenges that still need to be addressed. Thus, a recognition of all partners who have shared their expertise and efforts in conservation and preservation.

One of the primary goals of World Wildlife Day is to raise awareness about the impact that human activities have on wildlife and their habitats. Activities like deforestation, poaching, and climate change have had a devastating impact on many species of animals and plants around the world. By raising awareness about these issues, we can work towards finding solutions to protect these species and their habitats.

Another important goal of World Wildlife Day is to promote sustainable use of natural resources. This means using natural resources in a way that ensures their availability for future generations. Sustainable use of natural resources also means taking steps to reduce the negative impact that human activities have on wildlife and their habitats.

Many organizations and individuals around the world celebrate World Wildlife Day by organizing events and activities. These includes educational workshops, wildlife tours, and conservation projects. These activities are designed to raise awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats, as well as to inspire people to take action to help protect these species.

By working together we can address the challenges facing wildlife, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits of a healthy and diverse natural world.

Monday, March 6, 2023

updates

The Colorful Philippine Jeepney: A Cultural Icon Under Threat of Extinction

Toto 10:36:00 PM

CTTO

For many Filipinos, like me, the Jeepney is more than just a mode of transportation. It is a cultural icon that represents the country's history, creativity, and resilience. It needs to be preserved and maintained just like some of the historical and valuable pieces of our Philippine History. However, the Jeepney is now facing an uncertain future as the government plans to phase it out and replace it with modern mini-buses, which they call the modern jeep. If you're asking me, I don't find any resemblance of the jeep on that vehicle. It's more of a mini-bus for me.

The Jeepney's Origins

The Jeepney has a fascinating origin story that reflects the Filipino's resourcefulness and ingenuity. It started after World War II when American military jeeps were left in the country. The Filipinos, being known for their knack for repairing and recycling things, transformed the war jeeps into colorful and flamboyant public utility vehicles.

The first Jeepneys were bare-bones vehicles that could accommodate up to 20 passengers. But over the years, they evolved into a more elaborate form with ornate designs, flashy decals, and vibrant colors that reflect the driver's personality.

One of the company's that flourished during the blossoming era of jeepney is the Sarao Motors Company. Unfortunately, the company wasn't able to cope up with the demand of time.

CTTO

The Jeepney's Cultural Significance

The Jeepney is more than just a means of transportation. It is a cultural symbol that reflects the Filipino's creativity, adaptability, and resilience. It is a ubiquitous sight in the country's urban landscape, with its distinct look and sound, and its ability to navigate through congested streets.

The Jeepney also serves as a canvas for the Filipino's artistic expression. Many Jeepney owners decorate their vehicles with intricate designs, bold colors, and witty slogans. Some even feature pop culture icons, political figures, or religious themes.

Moreover, the Jeepney is a source of livelihood for thousands of drivers, operators, and mechanics. It is a vital part of the country's public transportation system, serving as a cheap and accessible mode of transport for millions of Filipinos.

The Jeepney's Future

However, the Jeepney's future is now in peril as the government plans to phase it out and replace it with modern mini-buses. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) cite the Jeepney's age, emissions, and safety concerns as the primary reasons for its phase-out. I just didn't get it. If the only problems was the emission and safety concerns why not evolve it and let that present jeepney be modernized and buy something that is not worth of our cultural heritage.

The government's plan has sparked protests from Jeepney drivers, operators, and enthusiasts, who argue that the Jeepney is not only a cultural icon but also an affordable and accessible mode of transportation for many Filipinos. They also point out that the government's plan will displace thousands of Jeepney drivers and operators who depend on the vehicle for their livelihood.

The Fate of the Jeepneys

The Jeepney is more than just a mode of transportation. It is a cultural symbol that represents the Filipino's creativity, adaptability, and resilience. Its evolution from a war jeep to a colorful public utility vehicle is a testament to the Filipino's resourcefulness and ingenuity.

However, the Jeepney is believe to bound for condemnation, phase out, and to be replaced. With what? With what they call jeep that does not resemble as a jeep but a mini bus. And take note each unit costs around Php2 Million which is intended to extended to drivers and operators as a loan. Do you think a jeepney driver can provide a monthly payment for that loan?

Now it is facing an uncertain future. They say they want it to be modernized but why do they have to buy something that does not shows or bears the historical value of the jeepney. As the move of LTO and LTFRB sparked protests and debates among Jeepney drivers, operators, and enthusiasts who argue that the Jeepney should be preserved as a cultural icon and as a vital part of the country's public transportation system, this matter will still be an issue to resolve. It's not a one done deal but probably a continuous effort of making everyone realize the value of the vehicle and of the driver.

In conclusion, the Jeepney's fate is in the hands of the government and the Filipino people. It is up to us to decide whether to preserve this cultural icon or to replace it with modern vehicles. Whatever the decision may be, the Jeepney will always hold a special place in the hearts of the Filipinos and will remain a symbol of their unique identity and heritage.

Saturday, September 3, 2022

updates

SMFI and Maxeon's Sinag Schools program powers up school in Batangas

Toto 7:54:00 AM

It's school day once again and many of our children are excited and eager to go to school. There are some schools that started with their face-to-face classes already but there are some places that need more attention to make them more conducive for the students.

SM Foundation (SMFI), the corporate social responsibility arm of the SM group, together with Maxeon Solar Technologies, recently powered up the Lemery Pilot Elementary School (LPES) in Batangas through the Sinag Schools program.

This social good collaboration between SMFI and Maxeon aims to provide clean and renewable energy to schools in grassroot communities by installing solar panels on an SM school building, especially to those that have low operating expenses.

In addition to the solar panel installation which intends to power positive change in the way energy is consumed in public schools, the program also aims to enhance the understanding of students in terms of energy management and the need to transition to cleaner energy alternatives with lower environmental impacts.

“Through this program, we want to power up the learning and development of young people. We want to help teach young people about solar energy, about renewable energy. We want to power up the next generation to help save our planet,” Maxeon Fab4 General Manager Glenn Everett said.

The SM school building at the LPES, which was donated by SMFI in partnership with SM Prime Holdings (SMPH) in 2017, now boasts 21 solar panels—estimated to produce 6510 watt-p. With the savings on electricity, the school may realign their budget to more efforts and other innovations that will give the students an environment more conducive to learning.

It takes a village to raise a child

SMFI executive director Debbie Sy underscored the importance of collective efforts in advancing the learning experience of every student in the country: “We believe that collaboration can drive growth and become a force for good in addressing societal challenges. CSR partnerships can create solutions that improve society by fostering learning, promoting innovation and gaining access to new technologies, such as the Sinag schools program. CSR collaboration can pool resources, both financial and human resources - between multiple organizations which can amplify social good impact.”

“The establishment of an ever-evolving CSR strategy and partnerships will help companies and non-government organizations in developing and implementing crucial social good programs over decades while having procedures in place that integrate social and environmental priorities into CSR core strategy – all in close collaboration with stakeholders,” she further added.

Moreover, Everett mentioned how SMFI and Maxeon share the similar set of values and interest when it comes to helping Filipino learners: “We have this concept of powering positive change in the world. We are happy to be working together with SM Foundation to power up the Lemery Pilot Elementary School.”

“Individually, we can do so much. But together we can do actually more. For us to bring our solar technology and SMFI to bring in their schools, these things are much better together than they would be apart,” he concluded.

Spreading social good all the way

SM Foundation made sure to truly touch the lives of the learners and teachers of LPES as it donated

eight desktop computers, 200 bags with school supplies, and more than 160 pcs brand new kinder and elementary books to further promote the love for reading among the students. Clothing items for parents were also distributed.

For more information about this initiative, follow SM Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube: @SMFoundationInc.

Maxeon is headquartered in Singapore. The company designs, manufactures, and sells Maxeon® and SunPower® brand solar panels. Maxeon has sales operations in more than 100 countries, operating under the SunPower brand in certain countries outside the United States. Maxeon is a leader in solar innovation with products that span the global rooftop and solar power plant markets through a network of more than 1,700 trusted partners and distributors. A pioneer in sustainable solar manufacturing, Maxeon leverages a +35-year history in the solar industry and numerous awards for its technology.

SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd’s Adopt-a-School program. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide. To date, it has turned over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities.

Friday, January 22, 2021

World Vision and its Partners

World Vision and its Partners, Continuing the Legacy of Changing the Lives of the Most Vulnerable Children

Toto 12:29:00 AM

As the Philippines welcomed another year, most Filipinos are anxious to see what the future holds. With everything the country experienced last 2020, a lot of people are doing their best to make the coming year different. Some have decided to make resolutions and pursue new opportunities, but for others, it is to continue the legacy of changing lives.

World Vision, together with its partners, continues the mission of helping the most vulnerable children and their communities led by its vision of seeing thousands or even millions of kids reach the fullness of life.

Through its campaign “A New Year of Firsts”, World Vision invites their sponsors to empower a child by enabling him or her to experience powerful and life-changing moments of firsts such as, for the first time a family could eat until they were full, a village could have clean water, a child could have all she needs to continue going to school, and a child could feel safe and protected.

First Bountiful Harvest

For 14-year-old Karie, life was a series of hunger and fear of starvation – made worse with the onslaught of COVID-19. Yet, it was during this period that Karie and her family experienced a miracle she never imagined possible.

For the first time ever, she could wake up without worrying if there was enough food to eat. On the contrary, they had enough food to last them through the endless days of lockdown, even after the pandemic stripped the family of their only source of income.

With the seeds World Vision provided them and with training in sustainable farming techniques, for the first time, Karie’s backyard was home to a flourishing vegetable garden – a gift that could change her life for good.

The Legacy of Firsts

World Vision Philippines has been helping children and their families out of poverty worldwide for over 60 years. With child sponsorship, children and their communities receive an opportunity for a better future.

“You don’t have to be rich to sponsor a child. All you need is the desire to be a bearer of hope”, shared Mae, a child sponsor through World Vision for 10 years.

Child sponsorship is not only making a difference in the lives of World Vision assisted communities, but is also transforming their donors as they experience a series of beautiful firsts with their sponsored children.

“We are deeply grateful to all our partners for reaching out to the most vulnerable children. God first loved us so we are able show kindness to others. This year, may we be encouraged to help transform the lives of children and their families through child sponsorship”, said World Vision National Director Rommel V. Fuerte.

To know how you can become a child sponsor, visit www.worldvision.org.ph/sponsor-child/.

You may also follow /worldvisionph on Facebook and @worldvisionphl on Instagram to know more about World Vision’s work in the Philippines.

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Taga-Alog Continues with Its Campaign For Ilog Pasig with a Songwriting for Advocacy

Toto 9:58:00 PM

An eye-opener and an immediate call not only to save Ilog Pasig but to save the world, PhilPop, Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), and National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) have teamed up for this two-day Mini Bootcamp of Taga-Alog, which includes a songwriting workshop that aims to promote Ilog Pasig as a center of cultural narrative and heritage, as well as raise awareness for the rehabilitation efforts of the river through a creative advocacy in music.

This is perhaps one of the clearest languages not only to one's ears but also to the innermost, deep inside the heart. Being part of the observer of the Mini Bootcamp it is a privilege to learn from three of the best songwriters in the country, Noel Cabangon, Trina Belamide, and Jungee Marcelo. I have not only learned the construction of music but also learned some of the processes on how to create and come up with inspiring and moving songs. Of course, there is also the learnings about the current stage of our environment based on the talks from DENR and Maynilad reps.

So, how did the songwriting went? Well, as mentioned it is advocacy and it is led by the three acclaimed and award-winning songwriters/ professionals in the music industry, Noel Cabangon, Trina Belamide, and Jungee Marcelo. The Mini Bootcamp is joined by upcoming composers and songwriters who have shown immense promise in writing the next big anthem for the environment.

After the success of TampisAwit last year, PETA and NCCA have expanded the mentorship program for budding songwriters and composers by tapping PhilPop to come up with a more comprehensive syllabus that put emphasis on Songwriting for Advocacy.

During the camp activities, coaches gave some short talks about song composition in which participants were very much attentive, as I am also. Right after they were given some activities to test creativity. Then it was followed by a short presentation.

"This time, we're not only imparting techniques to improve their craft," that's according to Taga-Alog Mini Bootcamp 2019 Chairman Noel Cabangon. He also added, "It is also our responsibility to prepare them in the real world, and help them pitch advocacy concepts that are geared toward creative ways to build awareness on various environmental causes. As musicians, we are more than just entertainers; we can change the world with our art."

The two-day songwriting workshop and competition culminated with the performance of the top 5 finalists and the announcement of the top 3songs. The first winner was given a grant for the official recording and promotions during the entire Taga-Alog campaign for 2019.

The winners are

1st Place - Suzanne Samson / “Ilog Pasig Laban”
2nd Place - Gerard de Leon & Rica Francisco / “Bangon, Ilog”
3rd Place - Randy Pusing / “Kayang-kaya”

Thursday, April 11, 2019

Music

Ai Ai Delas Alas Stages A Benefit Concert for Kristong Hari Church

Toto 9:25:00 PM

The Comedy Queen, Ai Ai Delas Alas, known for her tanga outfit whenever she performs might go a little bit wholesome as she conducts a benefit concert this coming June 24, 2019. Details of the concert is yet to confirm but it was assured that it's going to be filled with great performances.

It's not always funny antics and work for the Comedy Queen, knowing Ms Ai Ai, she will help whenever she can, specially for the church. That's a 100% sure. I think she believes that sharing your blessings is the right thing to do and will bring back ten folds. Probably that's one of her advocacy.

Speaking of advocacy, Ms Ai Ai pushes her service as she also head the team inviting other performers to join the Benefit Concert for the Kristong Hari Church which will on June 24 at Araneta Coliseum. One of her brand endorsement, Hobe Quick Cook Noodles, supports her on this project.

Kristong Hari is one of the old churches along Commonwealth Ave. Right before St. Peter Church was built, Kristong Hari was one of the nearest local churches in the vicinity of Commowealth Ave. The sunctuary where many of the Catholics go to listen for mass.

Keep posted for more details to come on this benefit concert.

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Threat

Japanese Encephalitis or JE, Another Mosquito Threat

Toto 12:43:00 PM

It seems that mosquito does has the habit of carrying diseases with them and unfortunately, with the number of species that they the more types of diseases will be infecting humans and animals. One type of diseases that are carried by the mosquito is called the Japanese Encephalitis which is viral and commonly affects the children.

When I heard about this I was at thought because I didn't know that aside from dengue and malaria there are other diseases that are caused and transferred by the mosquito. And knowing what it can do to children or human perse is alarming. It's great that there are groups and organizations that pushes the awareness of such health issues and sharing the idea of how to address these kind of problem.

Here's an information shared and given out by the doctors and experts during the media briefing held at Dusit Thani Hotel.

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a leading cause of viral encephalitis in Asia. Transmitted by the mosquito vector Culextritaeniorhynchus, the virus can cause inflammation of the brain, leading to high fever, headache, fatigue, vomiting, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures, spastic paralysis, and coma. It could also mimic a stroke, as was the case reported in Davao during the second half of 2016. There is no specific treatment for this disease. JE is fatal in 20 to 30% of cases and among those who survive, 30 to 50% suffer from permanent disabilities.

Reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) have estimated that there are currently 3 billion people at risk for JE, living in JE-prone areas, including 24 countries in the Southeast Asia and Western Pacific regions. JE usually occurs in rural and agricultural areas, however, an epidemiologic study conducted by Dr. Anna Lena Lopez of the National Institute of Health (NIH) published in 2015, showed that the virus circulates in all regions of the Philippines, including urban areas like Metro Manila, constituting a significant public health burden. The study showed that although majority of cases occur in children younger than 15 years of age, adults remain at risk, with 15% of cases occurring in individuals older than 18 years. In tropical areas, disease can occur year-round. Data from the Department of Health (DOH) Epidemiology Bureau surveillance system revealed that for 2016, among 875 acute meningitis-encephalitis suspected cases reported as of August 2016, 119 (14%) were laboratory-confirmed for JE.

As part of the government’s strategy to reduce mosquito-borne diseases, the 4S program was implemented several years back. 4S stands for: Search and destroy mosquito breeding places, use Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation for fever lasting more than 2 days, and Say yes to fogging when there is an impending outbreak. However, mosquito-borne diseases are still on the rise. According to the WHO, the most effective way of reducing disease burden is vaccination against the illness. The WHO cites that there is clear evidence demonstrating the impact JE vaccination has on disease burden in a population. Hence, the WHO has recommended that JE vaccination be integrated into national immunization schedules in all areas where JE is recognized as a public health problem.

The WHO Global Advisory Committee on Vaccine Safety (GACVS) has reviewed data on the different types of JE vaccines (inactivated and live attenuated vaccines) and has found them to have acceptable safety profiles. Local scientific bodies, including the Philippine Pediatric Society (PPS) and Pediatric Infectious Disease Society of the Philippines (PIDSP), have recommended that JE vaccination be given as a single primary dose for those 9 months old and above. For individuals less than 18 years of age, this should be followed by a booster dose 1 to 2 years after. Other preventive strategies for disease control include bed nets, repellents, long-sleeved clothes, coils, vaporizers and mosquito control measures.

About the Vaccine, The JE-chimeric vaccine, a live attenuated recombinant vaccine, was first licensed in the Philippines in 2013. The vaccine is produced by Vero cell culture, a cell culture technology recommended by WHO. It is the only JE vaccine available locally and is approved for use for individuals 9 months old and above, with high immunogenicity rates.

Mommies we need to be vigilant nowadays, that mosquito-borne diseases give us scary feeling for our kids. I hope this kind of information give you an enlightenment about JE just like me. Do follow all the required vaccine for your babies.

Tuesday, February 28, 2017

New Post

Debugging The Myth and Getting Aware of Colorectal Cancer

Toto 11:27:00 PM

In history, myths does have its origin, but in medicine,myths are beliefs that need to be debug because if not life may lead to terminal illnesses or even death. We, Filipinos have so many beliefs that more often we tend to take it lightly and not considers any preventive measures. Sometimes we shrug our shoulders and says 'it was nothing'. Yes, that was nothing for now but eventually will grow something that is irreversible.

One of today's feared life taker is cancer and one of the fast growing in number is the persons with what you call of a terminal cancer, Colon Cancer. In a more scientific term it is called the colorectal disease or commonly known as Colon Cancer. Silent as they are with the symptoms type of cancer is also a silent killer.

A few days ago, the Philippine Society of Enterologist with their sponsor Westmont, a division of Unilab, conducted a media briefing regarding their advocacy, which is the Colon Cancer Awareness and also the upcoming Cancer Awareness month.

The main thrust of the organization is to make a noise regarding Colon Cancer, the myths people believed about it, and the initiative in calling the attention of the government to have every Filipino citizens above 50 years old to be screened. According to DR. FREDERICK DY, Gastronintestinal oncologist and a leading expert in endoscopy, "Colorectal cancer has certainly become a real concern in the Philippines. The growing number of incidence and mortality worldwide have put the disease as the third most common type of cancer for both men and women, after lung and breast cancers."

According to the recent statistics of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) foremost cancer research and statistics project, GLOBOCAN, there were 4,901 deaths of the 8,553 incidences of colorectal cancer in the Philippines in 2012, which means that more than half of those diagnosed have died from the disease.

It is unfortunate that the level of awareness about colorectal cancer here in the Philippines is much lower than that for other types of cancer such as breasts or lungs. Doctors also find difficulty in urging patients to adopt lifestyle changes for the prevention if colorectal cancer. The earlier the better it is prevented.

“Colorectal cancer us influenced by both modifiable and non-modifiable risks, one of which is lifestyle and diet. But as a lifestyle illness, it is also asymptomatic (displaying no symptoms) is the initial stage,” Dr. Dy says.

As what Dr. Dy mentioned, modifiable risk factors are those that can be changed like obesity, cigarette smoking, alcoholic beverage intake, physical inactivity and increased consumption of red meat. A diet rich in animal fat generally increases risk, while eating food rich in fiber and calcium may possible reduce the risk.

Aside from the modifiable risk factors there are also the non-modifiable risks factor in colorectal cancer. Some of these non-modifiable are the gender, age, and family history. According to Dr. Dy these are factors that cannot be altered. These factors are inherent in a person like the family history of the disease and gender.

With the increase in incidences, colon cancer is now among the deadliest, and recent data show that it's not slowing down either.

"Colon cancer doesn't begin as cancer immediately; it starts with pre-malignant precursors called polyps. If left attended, these polyps grow over time, eventually becoming cancer. For young people, the risk is low, but they are not immune to it. We have young adults developing colorectal cancer. The occurrence is generally uncommon, but if someone has symptoms referable to colorectal cancer, no matter the age, they need to see their doctor or better if they consult a gastroenterologist. Most of colorectal cancer occurs sporadically but some have a strong genetic background. There are also genetic syndromes that also develop a significant number of polyps at a younger age," said Dy.

As to what is always said "prevention is the best medicine" and for the Philippine Society of Gastroenterology, they are aiming to inform every Filipino about colon cancer and encourages everyone to have themselves be screened, most especially and a must are those people ages 50 and up. It is preventable all is needed is the cooperation of every Filipino and of course through the help of the government and every individual.

So, for the Colon Cancer Awareness month which will happen this March, let us all be aware and be responsive to the call.

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Heroes Unite To Send Scholars to School for Only Php10.00

Toto 8:38:00 PM

For people in need 10 pesos goes a long long way and for children who wants to go to school this is enough to help them and make their dreams come true. This is what made the people behind HEROES PROJECT come up with. All are considered heroes as we all unite to bring deserving scholars to school for just only spending Php10 and texting HEROES to 3456.

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Let Us All Participate in the Earth Hour

Toto 7:04:00 AM

Okay since we learned about Earth Hour we never missed the day. We have been participating every year may it be in an organized event or just in our plain house with the lights off and only a candle light can be seen.

On March 28, 2015, Saturday at exactly 8:30 PM let us all participate in making a change by turning our lights off for an hour which can make a difference. Let us all Change Climate Change!

Friday, March 6, 2015

Run

Join PRO EARTH RUN 2015!

Toto 6:36:00 AM

Saving Mother Earth a is serious task. We may not have big funds or an armada to command but what matters is that our small deeds is greater when two or more individual made a pact to do their share of saving the environment. We're all runners in this call! As part of the celebration and call PRO Earth Run 2015 is initiated.

It's to get healthy and at the same time made an act to save the environment.

In its Global Climate Risk Index 2015, Germanwatch listed the Philippines as one of the countries most affected by extreme weather events in 2013.

Thursday, April 17, 2014

Sexual Problem

An Advocacy To Help Control PE

Toto 3:17:00 AM

Here in Kwento Ni Toto, stories come from different events, adventures, brands and advocacy. Whether it is for young ones, for teens, for yuppies or even for adults. Kwento Ni Toto shares the stories to the public to inform and impart knowledge to present readers and potential readers.

For this particular post it is just right to give a head start that this blog post include terms that may be rarely heard or used by the public, particularly the young ones and the teens. But for the sake of sharing knowledge and information it is just right that this campaign or advocacy should be heard as well. Just a caution comprehension requires an adult or adult mind.

Saturday, March 29, 2014

Support and Participate Today's Earth Hour

Toto 6:21:00 AM

Kwento Ni Toto is in one with the call of WWF in saving the world and the environment as we participate and support today's Earth Hour activity. After it was started eight years ago the number of people and countries participating are growing every year and today let us grow more to continuously save the planet. An hour of saving energy can help a lot!

Tonight don't forget to turn off your lights and electricity at 8:30 PM.