Kwento Ni Toto

Sunday, April 2, 2023

Ride to commemorate Bataan Death March heroes slated on Araw ng Kagitingan

Toto 1:05:00 PM

The Ride for Valor is a cycling event aimed at raising funds for the maintenance of the Bataan Death March markers and other World War 2 heritage sites. The event is scheduled for April 9, 2023, which is also known as Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) and marks the 81st Anniversary of the Fall of Bataan and the start of the Death March. The Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) first vice president for marketing and communications, Mike Villa-Real, stated that the event is a joint effort with the Department of National Defense, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, Provincial Government of Bataan, and Wartime Heritage Guild-Philippines. The main goal of the event is to honor the legacy of Filipino and American soldiers who fought for freedom and democracy during World War 2 by preserving important historical sites.

"The Bataan Death March is a somber reminder of the bravery and selflessness of Filipino veterans during the Second World War. It is an essential part of Philippine history and culture, and the Ride for Valor is an important way of honoring the veterans and preserving their legacy. Plus rider get to learn more about this historic event as they will be be traversing the actual route of the Death March," he said.

The ride is open to fully vaccinated cyclists and all types of bikes with brakes. Villa-Real said the event will start at 2:30 a.m. from the Kilometer Zero in Mariveles, Bataan, to Capas National Shrine in Tarlac.

The non-competitive bike ride will have four pitstops: Mt. Samat, Balanga Provincial Capitol’s The Bunker, San Fernando Train Station, and Angeles Museum. Giveaways will be given in selected pitstops. Villa-Real said participants may ride at their own pace, adding there will be a 12-hour cut-off during the event.

He noted that the event will also implement a "No Helmet, No Ride" policy to ensure the safety of the participants. Villa-Real also said a mechanic will be available to help those who encounter mechanical difficulties, while roving marshals will be present to keep track of the riders' progress. Support vehicles are allowed, but riders should only ride in the vehicle if they choose to drop out of the event.

The Bataan Death March is one of the darkest chapters in Philippine history, where around 80,000 Filipino and American soldiers were forced to march more than 100 kilometers in grueling conditions by Japanese forces in 1942. Thousands of soldiers survived but many also died due to starvation, dehydration, diseases, and the brutality of Japanese captors. The markers serve as reminders of the tragedy and heroism that occurred during that period.

PVB is a private, commercial bank owned by World War 2 veterans and their families. With Its new Charter signed into law, the Bank's ownership now includes Post War Veterans and AFP Retirees.

Ride for Valor 2023 is supported by Without Limits PH, Traqs Philippines, OneLGC, AIR21, Panahon.TV, and the Integrated Waste Management Inc, Neo Zigma PH, Hotel Sogo, The Oriental Hotel-Bataan, AFAB, Booster C Energy Shot, and Fitbar.

For more information about the event, follow Ride for Valor on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RideForValorPH.

Saturday, April 1, 2023

GCash FutureCast Introduces 10 New Innovations That Bring The Future Of Fintech To All Filipinos

Toto 1:19:00 PM

GCash is a popular finance super app in the Philippines with a user base of over 79 million people who appreciate the app's fast, secure, and convenient online transactions. According to reputable third-party platform Data.ai, GCash is the country's number one finance super app in terms of downloads, monthly active users, and daily active users, indicating that many Filipinos now rely on GCash as part of their daily routine.

Initially launched in 2005 as an SMS platform and later as a super app in 2012, GCash was the first to introduce the QR payment system in the Philippines. It played a significant role in helping Filipinos transition to digital transactions during the pandemic, and now that the world is reopening, GCash continues to expand its services to meet the changing needs of Filipinos in a global digital financial landscape.

During this year's #GCashFutureCast event, GCash unveiled ten groundbreaking innovations that are poised to shape the future of fintech and benefit every Filipino.

Tools for financial freedom

GCash has made wealth management products like savings, insurance, and investments easy and accessible. Now it introduces products to help people grow their wealth and to help them protect it.

GStocks PH is AB Capital Securities, Inc.'s (ABCSI) online retail securities trading services made accessible through the GCash app. Its user-friendly and simplified trading interface was designed through a collaboration with the Philippine Stock Exchange. Through GStocks PH, users can now trade stocks of over 280 local companies. GStocks PH will be available to more users soon.

GCrypto allows users to discover and explore the world of Crypto and NFTs. Users get access to curated NFT collections, like The House of OhLala by Filipino contemporary artist, Reen Barrera, on the GCrypto NFT Hub. Buying and selling Crypto is also made easier with an exchange powered by PDAX, the Philippines’ leading homegrown cryptocurrency exchange.

GInsure Online Shopping Protect insurance offers users 60 days of coverage up to P20,000 for all their online purchases for just P34. The insurance covers scenarios when orders are not delivered, are accidentally damaged, are not as described, or are stolen. The insurance product, powered by Chubb, is embedded in the user’s online GCash payment journey across 1,500 online shops and platforms.

GCash goes global

Traveling Filipinos can now go cashless globally using GCash’s newest services. For overseas Filipinos, they can now use GCash to send money and support to their family back home. GCash Global Pay allows Filipino travelers to do cross-border QR payments at Alipay+ merchants in Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, Qatar, Germany, Italy, France and the United Kingdom. This eliminates the hassle of paying with cash, or withdrawing money at ATMs where you can incur high service fees. It offers real-time Forex charging, with no service fees.

GCash Card gives travelers the advantage of real time Forex charging at low exchange rates and no service fees. With this, users can access their funds in a single tap at over 100 million shops across 200 countries and territories around the world through VISA’s expansive network.. This enables travelers to enjoy hassle-free shopping and dining experiences wherever they may be. The new GCash card will be available later this year.

GCash Overseas allows overseas Filipinos in Japan, Australia, Italy and the USA to download GCash using international SIM cards. Now they can send money, buy load, and pay bills for their loved ones back home. They can enjoy the convenience of sending money for free with GCash to GCash transactions, saving them the cost of remittance fees. GCash also announced that it is now available in the UK and Canada. GCash Overseas is currently on Beta and is limited to a number of users, but will expand to more users soon.

Borrowing made easier

GGives supports Filipinos with the ability to buy now, pay later with zero credit cards, zero additional documents, zero down payment, and now with zero interest at select merchants. GCash users are now free from the barriers normally associated with installment plans, for both in-store or online purchases.

Borrow Load will allow eligible users to borrow their favorite load promos today at zero cash out, giving them access to their preferred entertainment – even if they’re short on budget. They can now afford to access data-heavy apps with load promos valid for up to 7 days. Borrow Load will be rolling out to more users soon.

Improved security and user experience

GCash has taken steps to make transactions safer and more seamless through two new features:

GChat is a new, user-friendly messenger feature that makes it easier to chat and transact with contacts, share receipts instantly, and trace transaction histories. The feature makes it easier to search for conversations with friends, merchants or customers, while the Gigi and Advisories features allow users to get help anytime in real-time. GChat will be rolling out to users in the next few months.

DoubleSafe is the latest GCash security feature that prevents fraudsters from taking over accounts. It provides an additional layer of security on top of the 2-Factor Authentication and mobile pin (MPIN). DoubleSafe will be activated for every first login to a new mobile phone, and will use facial recognition to secure an account should the user inadvertently share their MPIN and OTP to fraudsters

At the FutureCast event, GCash CEO Martha Sazon said, “GCash has empowered and enabled every Filipino to remain hopeful and pursue progress. As the Philippines’ #1 Finance Super App and the first finance app to be a household name in the country, GCash is positioned to be everyone’s enabler to be future-ready. With the 10 new innovations at GCash, our hopes for a better tomorrow begins today.”

Friday, March 31, 2023

updates

Choosing to give a voice amidst the silence

Toto 6:39:00 PM

Teaching surpasses the realms of jobs or professions–it encompasses service, vocation, and life mission.

Proving this day and night are millions of Filipino teachers who stand as second mothers to students. One of them is Rosalie Macaspac, an SM scholar alumna who chose to pursue a career in Special Education (SPED).

Life’s work

Choosing to teach, especially pursue SPED, is a path less travelled. Out of over 800,000 public school teachers, only about 4,000 are in SPED, and Rosalie is one of the few who took the path. For 21 years now, the SM scholar alumna has dedicated her life to teaching SPED students. She wanted to empower and give special children a voice by advocating the welfare of deaf learners.

Rosalie Macaspac (left) interprets the contents of the program for her students.

With much dedication and determination to have the right skills for her students, she pursued graduate studies in special education and Filipino sign language at the Philippine National University and De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, respectively.

She currently teaches at the Philippine School for the Deaf in Pasay, the only government-owned institution for the deaf in the country. Here, she spearheaded the numeracy skills training program for deaf learners.

Embedding grit, greatness

Her journey to becoming an educator was not easy. Her parents separated when she was three years old, and her mother became the breadwinner.

“In the early years of my life as a three year old, awareness of how hard life is became a part of my growing up. I grew up with a mindset that whatever happens, I will not abandon my studies. Sensing my determination, my mother earned a living by washing and ironing clothes of our neighbors. I came to realize my mom had to wash and press thousands and thousands of clothes so I could finish my studies. But I did not pity myself. Instead, I kept a strong determination to battle on and promised my mother that she will not grow old and die as a laundry woman,” she said.

The weight on their shoulder became heavier when her mother became bedridden for half a year. Instead of slowing her down, it did the opposite. She continued her studies with much determination. With the help of her uncle, the Missionaries of Charity, and the puto bigas she sold, they could get by.

She finished primary school with good grades, and was a consistent honor student in high school, despite having one centavo allowance and rice and coffee as meals. With good standing, she had her mind set on her next goal: going to college.

“Giving up or surrendering wasn’t in my vocabulary. The strong heart of my mother was passed on to me as she was my inspiration to strive to get us out of the predicament we were in,” she stressed.

“When I was in fourth year high school, I was deep in thought of what to do to support my college education. Then, God in all His goodness, stepped in again. The Guidance Office in our school announced that the SM Foundation was offering scholarships for qualified students. I knew at that very moment that He was with me. All I had to do is to apply for the scholarship,” she recalled.

Rosalie (fifth from left) and her fellow scholar alumni take a photo with SMIC Executive Director Harley Sy (third from left)

She vividly remembers sending her SM College Scholarship program application at the Customer Service of the SM in Quiapo and how she learned on May 9, 1995 that she would be interviewed for the scholarship in room 214 of the MSE Bldg. The three-digit number has since become unforgettable for her. By June 1995, Macaspac was among the SM scholars who had started their college education under the scholarship program.

According to her, the scholarship helped her become a well-rounded individual. It was the key to the realization of her dreams and paved the way to success. The activities provided by SM Foundation, such as the scholars’ assembly, the orientation, leadership training, sports fest and annual retreat, were very memorable for her.

“Looking back, the retreats, monthly meetings and being able to work in SM as an employee, followed up by our project director boosted my self-esteem and opened my world to service,” she said.

Rosalie at the Philippine School for the Deaf

Before teaching, she first worked as a Merchandise and Planning Control-Clerk at the SM Head Office, which was then located in Calle Echague, Manila. She was hired immediately after college.

Working in DepEd has always been her dream, and she is proud of where she is today: “Since day one of my college days, I aimed to be a public-school teacher. I am happy with my work now as a High School Teacher for Deaf learners. I am so privileged that I am in this community and my heart is entwined with my students.”

“I am not ashamed to tell my colleagues that I had a humble beginning and I thank SM Foundation for putting me where I am now. I owe these blessings to SM, Henry “Tatang” Sy, SM Foundation, Ma’am Nilda Bernaldez, and my fellow SM-Scholars, most especially, my mother. They are all the instruments to why I chose to give back to a special community and dedicate my life to being an effective SPED teacher.”

updates

SM Supermalls, SM Cares to join Earth Hour 2023

Toto 6:31:00 PM

SM Supermalls, together with its corporate social responsibility arm SM Cares, is joining the rest of the world in observing Earth Hour this coming March 25 as the company renews its commitment to environmental stewardship.

This year's Earth Hour is all about "creating the Biggest Hour for Earth," and those who want to participate in the global activity are encouraged to spend 60 minutes doing something positive for the planet, in addition to switching off their lights.

SM Supermalls has been supporting Earth Hour and the WWF since the initiative was first held in the Philippines in 2008. This year, customers, tenants and employees at SM malls nationwide are once again encouraged to “Give an Hour for Earth” as SM Supermalls joins the annual Global Lights Switch Off from 8:30 PM to 9:30PM on March 25.

This day also marks the start of the World Wildlife Fund’s Virtual Earth Hour Run, a self-paced run supported by SM Cares, to be held from March 25 to April 30, 2023. The run aligns with SM Supermalls’ bid to make “Earth Hour, Any Hour” as participants are encouraged to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle by running and win prizes along the way. Joiners may register here and tag SM Cares and WWF as they post their stopovers at SM malls with hashtag #BiggestHourForEarth and #EarthHourVirtualRun.

Aside from these, SM Supermalls has been pushing to minimize its carbon footprint in support of the global green movement through various programs ranging from responsible energy consumption to investing in renewable energy.

For instance, more than 50 percent of the energy consumed by SM malls all over the country now come from renewable sources. In terms of solar energy usage, SM now has 12 malls equipped with energized solar panels, with SM Mall of Asia as the latest mall to receive a solar panel installation, which has a capacity of 2.003 MWp.

SM has also been recognized for exceeding compliance with RA7920 or the New Electrical Engineering Law, which regulates the practice, licensing, and registration of electrical engineers and electricians. This is proof that SM is operated and maintained only by highly qualified engineers.

SM Cares' sustainability initiatives include the Trash-To-Cash Market and the Plastic Waste Collection program, which encourage responsible solid waste disposal among Filipinos; the annual Green Film Festival which promotes environmental awareness among students and the youth; and the International Coastal Cleanup which encourages stakeholders to do their part in keeping our seas and oceans clean.

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the country’s biggest chain of malls built by one of Southeast Asia’s leading real estate developer, SM Prime Holdings. It is responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community, including programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on Environment.

To learn more, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

SM Foundation

"SM Scholarship Grant Empowers Daughter of Flower Farmers to Lead a Vibrant Life

Toto 12:53:00 PM

This story from the SM Foundation is somehow similar to my story when I was still studying. Like Jonnah I've grown and finshed my studies because of scholarship. So, this made feel proud, especially to those who are really below the poverty line.

Here's the story of Jonnah Jane Sacamay.

Once upon a time in a small town in the Philippines, a young girl named Jonnah Jane Sacamay grew up in a family that struggled to find stability. Her family relied on flower farming, a seasonal source of income that was often disrupted by unpredictable weather disturbances. Despite this uncertainty, Jonnah's family always emphasized the importance of education.

Jonnah knew that education was the key to securing a better future for herself and her family. She worked hard in school and learned about the SM College Scholarship Program, which offered underprivileged youth the chance to pursue a college degree. With her eyes set on this opportunity, Jonnah graduated high school as the class valedictorian and immediately applied for the SM scholarship.

To her delight, Jonnah was accepted into the program, and the weight of financial uncertainty was lifted off her family's shoulders. With the scholarship's support, Jonnah pursued her dream of becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Accountancy from the University of San Carlos.

The SM Scholarship not only helped Jonnah achieve her personal goals, but it also empowered her to give back to her community. She and her fellow SM scholars initiated outreach programs to help those in need, a tradition that continues to this day.

Today, Jonnah is a Senior Accounting Manager at the SM Store in Cebu, where she uses her knowledge and experience to make informed decisions that benefit her family and her community. With her financial stability, Jonnah is also able to take care of her parents' medical expenses and help them enjoy the vibrancy of life after retiring as flower farmers.

Jonnah's story is a testament to the power of education and the importance of stability in achieving one's dreams. With a solid foundation and support, anyone can cultivate their aspirations and contribute to the welfare of their community.

Monday, March 27, 2023

updates

The Yellow Rockets Experienced the Ultimate Rush in Robinsons Appliances' Race to a Minute 2023: Winner of The Last Leg Showdown!

Toto 11:01:00 PM

When was the last time I covered something like this? Well, I think that was before the pandemic and it's really exciting and thrilling to see the participants go for the prize. So, it was an honor to be part of the bloggers that witness this another winning moment with Robinsons Appliances.

So, this is Robinsons Appliances' highly anticipated "Race to a Minute" and has reached its final pitstop at the Galleria South mall in San Pedro City, Laguna. After successful events in Robinsons Valencia, Robinson Galleria Cebu, and Robinsons Tuguegarao, four teams from the Greater Manila Area will compete for the chance to win up to PHP220,000 worth of appliances and gadgets.

According to Donna May San Luis, Marketing Services Manager of Robinsons Appliances, the event is an annual celebration to show gratitude to their loyal customers who have supported them throughout the year. Since its launch in 2017, the "Race to a Minute" has been a highly anticipated event where chosen participants from the four major regions in the Philippines complete tasks for 60 seconds, vying for amazing prizes and thrilling memories.

“For almost a month, we’ve been traveling around the Philippines to bring excitement and fun to Robinsons Appliances' loyal customers. We’re very excited that we’re are finally at the last leg of Race to a Minute, and we’re very delighted to have it here in the beautiful Robinsons Galleria South in San Pedro City, Laguna. This annual Robinsons Appliances event marks our gratitude to our customers who’ve been supporting us throughout the past year,” mentioned by Donna May San Luis.

This year's event is co-presented by Kolin, Sharp, Lex Service, Inc., TCL, GCash, Samsung, and Daikin and it will give away a total of PHP2 million worth of appliances and gadgets. Aside from the prizes, all participants from all legs of the "Race to a Minute" have also received PHP2,000 worth of GoRewards Points.

The "Race to a Minute" is composed of six pitstops wherein players must finish assigned tasks within 60 seconds. Each pitstop will test each member's physical and mental capabilities, with the earliest time they reach the next pitstop giving them a higher chance of receiving the highest-valued prize. Imagine the excitement not knowing if you can complete the task or not and what's interesting is what prizes you'll going to win. Anyway it was really fun being part of this event. Though not a player but there's still the thrill. We just hope that there will be a similar challenge for bloggers. Anyway we'll be watching out for it.

So, who wins in this last leg of the Race To A Minute? Well, there were four teams and top winner is the Yellow Team or the Yellow Rockets, Red Team or Red Cheers on the 2nd place, followed by the third place which is the Blue Team or the Blue Knights, and lastly the Green Team or the Green Brigades. First or last, still they get to win prizes which is not but for exerting great effort in running and solving problems. So, for the Yellow Rockets congrats!!!!

You can watch the action on my Youtube Channel Kwento Ni Toto, to see that excitement!

Joining the event as hosts are MYX VJ Turs Daza and celebrity-mom Elisse Joson. For more news and updates, follow the Robinsons Appliances official pages on Facebook and Instagram or visit www.robinsonsappliances.com.ph.

Sunday, March 26, 2023

updates

HONOR X8a, the DSLR Smartphone is now available nationwide for Php 10,990

Toto 10:18:00 PM

The HONOR X8a, the latest addition to the X Series with a 100MP Ultra-Clear Camera, is now available for purchase starting March 25, 2023. The smartphone can be purchased for Php 10,990 at HONOR kiosks and partner stores nationwide, or online through Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok Shop.

Stephen Cheng, the Vice President of HONOR Philippines, stated that the company is always looking for ways to provide quality products to their fans, and the HONOR X8a, with its 100MP triple rear camera system, is perfect for those who love taking high-quality photos on the go.

The HONOR X8a features top-notch camera and display technology. The smartphone's 100MP Main Rear Camera, supported by a 5MP Wide & Depth Camera and a Macro Camera, allows users to capture high-definition images with vivid details and clarity. The device also has a 16MP Front Camera for selfies.

The HONOR Display Color Calibration technology, combined with the 6.7-inch FullView Display, offers a better viewing experience on a large screen with a screen-to-body ratio of 93.6%. The device is certified by TÜV Rheinland and equipped with low blue light technology, making it ideal for people who spend long hours in front of their screens. It also has a 4500 mAh battery, which can deliver up to 13 hours of music streaming or 16 hours of uninterrupted social media browsing on a single charge.

The HONOR X8a comes in three majestic colors: Cyan Lake, Titanium Silver, and Midnight Black. Buyers can purchase the smartphone via HONOR kiosks, or partner online stores, Lazada, Shopee, and Tiktok Shop. HONOR fans can also avail the HONOR X8a through Home Credit for as low as Php 1,332 per month with 0% interest installment payment.

For more information and announcements, visit HONOR's website www.hihonor.com and social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok.

Saturday, March 25, 2023

updates

P-Pop sensation MONA's latest single "Tagahanga" reflects on her past as a fan

Toto 9:46:00 AM

Mona, a talented singer-songwriter from the Philippines, has released her official second single under Sony Music Entertainment, titled "Tagahanga." The song is inspired by her experiences as a fan, telling the story of a passionate fan who hopes to connect with their idol in a meaningful way and get noticed. Mona wrote the song herself, using her own memories of being a fan to inspire the storytelling.

“To an extent, I’d say that these memories come from a place of love and adoration,” MONA shares. “I took the experience to heart when I decided to start a career in music, because at some point in my life, I know how it feels to be a fan.”

Mona delivers the material produced by K-Pop/P-Pop producer OhWon Lee with a balance of introspection and enthusiasm, singing as if she is fully committed to the essence of the narrative. The producer highlights the bass and guitar parts, creating a driving rhythm that encourages dancing and movement, adding a layer of fun and excitement to the track.

“The producer prominently highlights the bass and guitar parts, creating a driving rhythm that encourages dancing and movement,” the Always Remember act adds. “This, in turn, sets the tone of the track, adding a layer of fun and excitement.”

Recently joining Sony Music Entertainment’s esteemed roster of P-Pop talents, which includes KAIA, Fourth Impact, and SB19, Mona has over 18 million followers on TikTok and is growing her portfolio as an influencer. With her vocal abilities and solid pop instincts, she hopes to conquer the local music scene.

"Tagahanga" is a follow-up to Mona's debut single, "Always Remember," a song that emphasizes the importance of self-worth and preservation in facing one's fears. The new track is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

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.

Sunday, March 19, 2023

updates

Erceflora Kiddie takes children on a delightful journey towards a healthy gut aboard the resilient Batang Matatag Bus

Toto 9:42:00 PM

As summer approaches, children are looking forward to spending more time outside and playing in the sun. It can be challenging for parents to come up with fun and beneficial activities to keep their children entertained. Fortunately, the Batang Matag Bus has arrived just in time to provide children with a day of play and lots of exciting learning experiences.

Although the pandemic's impact is diminishing, parents remain vigilant in ensuring that their children remain healthy and safe as they explore the world around them. However, beyond maintaining good hygiene practices, the most crucial step is ensuring that children are healthy from the inside out. This is because 70% of the body's immunity is derived from the gut.

“The gut affects so much of a child’s body: their mood, their reasoning, their behavior, and of course their overall health,” said J Ann Mirasol, from the makers of Erceflora Kiddie. “Erceflora Kiddie is created to help balance the good bacteria in the gut, allowing it to absorb nutrients, resist harmful microbes, and prevent upset stomachs.”

During the short panel discussion in the event, celebrity moms, Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Cheska Kramer, and Andi Manzano, openly discussed about the old thought about the phrase "wala pang 5 seconds yan." Briefly putting out their thoughts that it's good thing that they do that because somehow it strengthens the bacteria inside the body. But of course, there's a disclaimer that if the food fell on the floors of a wet market that would be gross already.

To help parents understand the importance of gut health and make building healthy habits easier and more fun for their kids, Erceflora Kiddie created the Batang Matatag Bus, a touring bus across the metro meaning to make education on gut health for kids fun and simple. “Kids with a healthy gut are healthier, happier, and more energetic, and that’s what we call ‘Batang Matatag’,” said Mirasol.

The Batang Matatag Bus was parked at the BGC Amphitheater from March 11-12 to set up the Todo Tatag Playground that had activities for the whole family:

The Todo Tatag Playground

The Todo Tatag Playground featured different play areas that highlighted key information on how a healthy gut supports the overall development of children. Playground equipment were turned into exciting learning opportunities for all kids to be strong, healthy, and become Batang Matatag.

The Todo Tatag Bus

Hopping onto the Todo Tatag Bus, kids learned the Todo Tatag Technique to make washing hands a fun and effective activity. There were also interactive games and photo walls to take fun photos and make cool memories.

A Fun-filled Program

Starting at 2:00 PM on March 11 there will be an interactive program for the family to enjoy together. Families can expect fun games, playful mascots, and entertaining hosts that will give a fun filled family day to all who attend. The program will not only involve energetic activities to keep the audience engaged but also learn more about Erceflora Kiddie and why kids should be encouraged to use it.

Bonding with Tatag Mommies

Erceflora Kiddie brought in the Todo Tatag Mommies Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio, Cheska Kramer, and Andi Manzano with host Riza Diaz to talk about creative ways to encourage the whole family to start more healthy habits and learn more about how to raise stronger, healthier kids starting with gut health. With the help of Erceflora Kiddie, kids can absorb more nutrients, activating better immunity against harmful microbes for todo tatag na tiyan para sa todo tatag na katawan.

With much excitement generated by the Todo Tatag Bus and Playground, BGC is just the first in several other stops for the Batang Matatag Bus throughout the year. In the meantime, parents can help even more kids maintain a healthy gut. When you buy Erceflora Kiddie, a portion of the sale will support Batang Matatag—a movement initiated by Save the Children Philippines and Erceflora Kiddie to improve the overall health and nutrition of children in school.

updates

Empowering pop song “5678” highlights KAIA's magnetic confidence

Toto 5:11:00 PM

To celebrate International Women's Month, P-Pop girl group KAIA has released "5678," a dance-pop track that encourages listeners to face anything that comes their way and pursue their dreams, despite what others may say. The song, co-written by the members of KAIA with Ohwon Lee, PaperPlanet, and LEO, serves as an anthem to inspire women to never give up on their goals.

According to KAIA, "5678" is a testament to their determination to achieve success on their own terms, one step at a time, without looking back. The group expresses gratitude for the opportunities presented to them and promises to deliver a message of positivity and hope to their supporters through their music.

With its uplifting and confident lyrics, "5678" sends a message of self-love and empowerment to listeners. Lines like "Hingang malalim, lahat tatahakin / Hindi na ako maliligaw" ("Taking a deep breath, I'll conquer everything / This time, I won't get lost") are sure to resonate with listeners from around the world.

The song is produced by Ohwon Lee, known for his work with some of the biggest names in K-Pop, and the energetic beats and synth intro effectively convey KAIA's unstoppable strength and defiance. "5678" is also set to be included in KAIA's debut EP, which will be released later this year, and the accompanying music video, directed by Raymond Fabian and assisted by Jonathan Tal Placido, will be dropping on March 25th.

KAIA expressed their appreciation for the collaborative process with Studio 79th, who produced the video, and their openness to the ideas of KAIA. "5678" is available now on all digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment.

Saturday, March 18, 2023

Uratex Foam

Sleep Better with Uratex: The Leading Foam Company in the Philippines Offers Discounts on Sleeping Essentials for World Sleep Day

Toto 9:05:00 PM

Uratex, the top foam company in the Philippines, celebrates World Sleep Day (WSD) and continues to promote the importance of a good night's sleep. WSD, which took place last March 17, emphasizes the value of quality sleep for everyone.

Research conducted by Milieu Insight and Intellect revealed that many employed Filipino adults experience poor quality of life due to stress, leading to difficulty sleeping. The National Nutrition Council in the Philippines also reported that a lack of sleep is linked to several health problems, including brain function and depression. Therefore, it is necessary to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to boost the immune system.

To address sleep problems and provide sleep solutions, Uratex is committed to developing and innovating products that enhance the sleep experience of every Filipino family. Uratex has spent more than five decades creating sleeping essentials to meet everyone's needs, becoming a trusted sleeping companion for every Filipino.

Mr. Kurt Cheng, Brand Marketing Executive, and Sleep Expert of Uratex Philippines, highlighted the importance of having the right sleeping aids, such as mattresses and pillows, to aid in getting a good night's sleep.

In celebration of World Sleep Day, Uratex is offering up to a 10% discount on selected sleeping products from March 15-31, 2023. This promotion is applicable and exclusive to Uratex Showrooms, Authorized Dealers Nationwide, and the official online store.

Mr. Christian Cheng, Brand Marketing Executive of Uratex Philippines, emphasized the brand's commitment to ensuring that every Filipino gets the best sleep through their products, continuing to champion the value and impact of sleep in our daily lives.

Uratex's range of mattresses and other quality sleep products has consistently been recognized as a Trusted Brand for Mattress category at the Reader's Digest Awards, including the 2022 edition.

To learn more about Uratex and its products, as well as upcoming promos, visit www.uratex.com.ph or their official Shopee page at shopee.ph/uratexph. You can also follow /UratexPhilippines on Facebook and @uratex_ph on Instagram for updates and upcoming promos.

For over 55 years, Uratex has been committed to providing comfort through its products and services, enriching lives and creating meaningful moments.

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