Sunday, July 31, 2016

KNOW MORE TO LIVE MORE : What every woman needs to know about sexual health, early pregnancy and maternal mortality and how to prevent them.


How can you care for a baby, if you yourself are still a child?

Teen mothers in the Philippines have never been unusual. But if decades ago, most teenage mothers were 16 or 17 years old . they are now getting pregnant as early as 12 or 13. 



Critics blame the lack of available information about sex and reproductive health for these early pregnancies. In most classrooms, teachers only go as far as teaching students about the various parts of the anatomy, as well as menstruation, and circumcision. But sex itself is not discussed. 

Women are trained to refrain from talking about sex. But hey we are in the modern times and I'm very much concerned about every woman's health and our exploding population. It's about time to not be a know-it-all but a know-how individual.


I gave birth to my first-born when I was 22, a year after I graduated from college. Right age? I don't think so. That's why when I had my first menstruation 2 months after, my OB-gyn and I agreed on one thing -- I need to use contraceptive to avoid mistimed pregnancy. There were 2 methods we considered : Injectable and pills. I first tried the injectable because I'm afraid I might miss a pill. Every three months I would go to her clinic for the administration of the said method. But after months of into it, I've experienced palpitations, difficulty in breathing, headaches and mood swings . Then I switched to taking pills, with my OB's recommendation of course I took pills for years and when I decided to have a baby again, I stopped that's when my second child was born, I was 30 then. In those years on pills I still have lots of questions on mind. 
Dra. Anna Belen Ignacio- Alensuela MD, FPOGS

Luckily, last July 27, I was invited to attend an intimate gathering about reproductive health, themed #knowmorelivemore at CERCHIO in Quezon City and it opened up my eyes and mind and learned a lot from the bubbly expert, Dra. Anna Belen Ignacio- Alensuela MD, FPOGS  (Yes! After all these years, I still have a lot to know). Let me share with you some facts and myths about taking pills.

1. All birth control pills are basically the same?


2. Taking pills for a long time will make it harder to get pregnant later on?

3. Taking pills cause acne?

4. I can get pregnant even during my menstrual cycle/period.

5. Contraception is like abortion?

6. You won't become pregnant if you miss one pill.

7. At 40 and above, it's impossible for me to get pregnant?

8. Taking pills can cause you gain weight?

9. You should have a break from taking the pill. You should not take it consecutively every month.

Getting pregnant at an early age has higher risk of acquiring the virus that causes cervical cancer and preeclampsia. I'm supporting this advocacy to save every woman's life, Lower maternal mortality rate and to have a better future for our children. 


I am appealing to all parents and guardians out there to help our adolescents address their needs by talking to them openly about reproductive health  to prevent early pregnancy. Schedule a visit to an OB-gyn  just like going to your favorite salon and spa.

There are products that are committed in caring for every type of women.


THE YOUNG ADULT -
The ideal pill to use for first time users is the the one with the lowest dose. The brand Minipil, is a combination of 100 mcg Levonorgestrel + 20 mcg Ethinylestradiol. (“mcg” is micro gram) It is the lowest available in the market. Other bands have 125 to 150 mcg of Levonorgestrel and 30mcg of Ethinylestradiol. It has to be noted that low dose does NOT mean reduced efficacy, but it will definitely reduce side effects, especially if it will be the first time to use the pill.

THE UGLY DUCKLING
For those that have severe acne, chances are the pill with the active ingredients: Cyproterone acetate 2mg + Ethynylestradiol 35mcg will be prescribed. It is prohibitively expensive at Php 656 in Mercury, I guess that is the price you have to pay to get clear skin, the pill is made in Europe after all, however there is brand that is more affordable at about Php 450 in Mercury, that is Cybelle, it is also made with Cyproterone acetate 2mg + Ethynylestradiol 35mcg and also made in Europe. I guess beauty has a price, but is doesn’t have to be pricey.
For girls that have been diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), chances are you have been prescribed a pill with Cyproterone acetate and Ethynylestradiol. It is prohibitively expensive at Php 656 in Mercury, the pill is made in Europe after all. However there is brand that is more affordable at about Php 450 in Mercury, that is Cybelle, it is also made with Cyproterone acetate and Ethynylestradiol and also made in Europe. Cybelle will definitely give you more value for your money without scrimping on your treatment.

THE FASHIONISTA
For girls that have uncomfortable periods or PMS, treating with regular pain reliever is not enough to manage all the symptoms, especially bloating and mood swings! You have to take pills with Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol. Hurry and consult your doctor to best manage this. However, as they are made in Europe, be prepared as the pills cost anywhere from Php 889 to Php 905! It will certainly cause your mood to swing. But fret not, I found more affordable brands in Mercury, these are Lizelle, which cost only Php 629 and Liza, which is only Php 600! Same Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol and also made in Europe. If this isn’t a deal, I don’t know what is. Best to check on you ObGyn as Liza and Lizelle have different doses and number of pills; one of them should be the ideal brand for you.

For ladies that get bloated and gain weight when they take the pill,  the ideal pills to take would be with Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol. Consult your ObGyn about you weight concerns when taking pills. There are Europe made pills that cost anywhere from Php 889 to Php 905 that will help you maintain your weight. It is certainly expensive, but ther are affordable brands in Mercury, these are Lizelle, which cost only Php 629 and Liza, which is only Php 600! Same Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol and also made in Europe. If this isn’t a deal, I don’t know what is. Best to check on you ObGyn as Liza and Lizelle have different doses and number of pills; one of them should be the ideal brand for lighter you.

THE CAREER WOMEN -
(Same with Liza ) For girls that have uncomfortable periods or PMS, treating with regular pain reliever is not enough to manage all the symptoms, especially bloating and mood swings! You have to take pills with Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol. Hurry and consult your doctor to best manage this. However, as they are made in Europe, be prepared as the pills cost anywhere from Php 889 to Php 905! It will certainly cause your mood to swing. But fret not, I found more affordable brands in Mercury, these are Lizelle, which cost only Php 629 and Liza, which is only Php 600! Same Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol and also made in Europe. If this isn’t a deal, I don’t know what is. Best to check on you ObGyn as Liza and Lizelle have different doses and number of pills; one of them should be the ideal brand for you.

For ladies that get bloated and gain weight when they take the pill,  the ideal pills to take would be with Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol. Consult your ObGyn about you weight concerns when taking pills. There are Europe made pills that cost anywhere from Php 889 to Php 905 that will help you maintain your weight. It is certainly expensive, but ther are affordable brands in Mercury, these are Lizelle, which cost only Php 629 and Liza, which is only Php 600! Same Drospirenone and Ethinylestradiol and also made in Europe. If this isn’t a deal, I don’t know what is. Best to check on you ObGyn as Liza and Lizelle have different doses and number of pills; one of them should be the ideal brand for lighter you.

CONTRACEPTION DOES NOT MAKE WOMEN PROMISCUOUS, INSTEAD IT EMPOWERS HER TO CARE FOR HER OWN SEXUAL HEALTH.

It still best to consult medical experts about this matter.

I WOMAN.
I MATTER.
I INFLUENCE.
I WORK.
I NURTURE.

If you have further questions/concerns  feel free to ask on the comment section. Ü Ü Ü

Saturday, July 30, 2016

The Whitney Houston Show 2016: Live in Manila at the PICC, Plenary Hall on August 27.




The astounding tribute show taking the world by storm! A fun and heart-felt concert dedicated to the incomparable Whitney Houston. The Greatest Love Of All: The Whitney Houston Show celebrates the magnificent catalogue of hits that Houston made famous during her 30 year career. The 2 ½ hour concert and stage show includes hits such as 'How Will I Know', 'I Wanna Dance With Somebody', 'Where Do Broken Hearts Go', 'Didn't We Almost Have It All', 'I'm Every Woman', 'One Moment In Time', 'I Have Nothing' and of course, 'I Will Always Love You' and many more.

Starring the breathtaking voice of Belinda Davids live in concert featuring the full production show from the US. Direct from sell out shows across Europe, plus a full band, dancers and theatrical effects, this show is not just a brilliant tribute but a spectacular concert experience in its own right and should not be missed!

In the wake of Whitney Houston's tragic passing in 2012, her timeless music and awe-inspiring voice have received renewed appreciation from her legion of long-time fans and garnered a new generation of admirers who appreciate Whitney's unique voice, undeniable talent and pervasive charm as a welcome contrast to the artists prevalent in today's contemporary music.

In preparation for such an anticipated show, and in respect for Houston's legacy, Showtime Management dedicated over 12 months to perfecting this production and finding the right star. After conducting over 15,000 auditions in 12 countries, accomplished South African vocalist BELINDA DAVIDS was selected to pay reverence to Houston with her carefully crafted renditions.

Don’t miss this critically acclaimed once in a lifetime live show of a tribute to a woman who has long been an icon of pop music and vocal ability, The Greatest Love Of All – The Whitney Houston Show Tour 2016 on Friday, August 26th, 8PM at the IEC Pavillon, Cebu City and on Saturday, August 27th at the PICC Plenary Hall, Pasay City, Manila.

Presented by DMC Philippines, in cooperation with Gotesco Group Of Companies, and Gruppo Group Of Companies. This event is also brought to you by Hotel Jen, the official residence and Novu hair. 

Special thanks to our media partners: NET 25, Eagle Broadcasting, RMN, 558 DZXL, 774 DWWW, Radyo Agila,  90.7 Love Radio, 95.5 Pinas FM, 96.3 Easy Rock, 97.9 Home Radio, 101.1 YES FM, 107.5 Wish FM, Business Mirror, Peoples Tonight, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Manila Concert Scene, Philippine Concerts, and  When In Manila. Tickets are now available at SM Tickets (www.smtickets.com) and Ticket World (www.ticketworld.com.ph) outlets.


Wednesday, July 27, 2016

#PangakoNgPagbabago : A Light Network Special Coverage SONA 2016


The State of the Nation Address (SONA) is a constitutional obligation and yearly tradition, wherein the chief executive reports on the status of the country, unveils the government’s agenda for the coming year, and proposes to Congress certain legislative measures. The President of the Philippines appears before Congress upon its invitation, for which purpose a joint session is held in the Session Hall of the House of Representatives. 


Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the 16th President of the Philippines who has spent only 25 days as president, delivered his first State of the Nation Address before a joint session of Congress last Monday, July 25.

The speech lasted for about an hour and a half as Duterte went off script several times to tell anecdotes, crack some jokes, comment on the contents of the speech and pause as the crowd applauded 46 times as what Mari  Kaimo said during the live coverage at Light Network.
It was a lengthy, funny but tough, entertaining but heartfelt SONA  I've witnessed so far.  Very  straightforward and tackled issues important to every Filipino.

 
Here is the full script of his speech Click here.

The speech encapsulated the people's dream and wish. It gives every Filipino reason to hope. There are points in SONA  that I do not agree on but I believe the way forward is for the people to continue the people's campaign for their rights and demands.

Whether you voted for President Rodrigo  or not, please keep this in mind: We should root hard for him because his success will be our nation's success.

Photo opps  with the hosts and guests Ü
Official clothe sponsor : Obra ni Juan and La Obra


Mr. Mari Kaimo
Ms. Claire Delfin

Former Senator Rene Saguisag
Ms. Etta Rosales, Former CHR Chairperson
Bloggers (Leomy, John, Cie and Ms. Joy) , hosts and guests

I would like to thank the top motivational TV station in  the country and the media partner of  #SONA2016 #LNPangakoNgPagbabago , LIGHT NETWORK Channel 33, Magaan Dito Kaibigan  for the opportunity to be part of the special coverage of President Duterte's first SONA.

Sponsors of the events : La Obra and Obra ni Juan, BBMPC and Disenyo, Pandi and Tantonco's Catering.

What can you say about the latest SONA? Let me hear your thoughts. :)


Monday, July 18, 2016

Bring back your skin’s radiance with Helix-D : Because Glowing Skin is Always In!



Nothing is more beautiful than healthy, glowing skin. With radiant skin, you look younger and feel more confident. However, most women, especially those with busy lifestyles, tend to neglect taking care of their skin. They may also find that taking good care of their complexion can be complicated, time-consuming and expensive.




Now, there’s no excuse to not have radiant skin, thanks to a convenient, effective and fast-acting solution from Helix-D!

A breakthrough skincare serum that delivers amazing benefits once thought impossible from an over-the-counter product, Helix-D combines potent ingredients with fast-acting technology to heal skin dryness and darkening, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and eliminate puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.

Helix-D contains a blend of the most powerful peptides, anti-oxidants and super-hydrators that moisturize skin and improve its elasticity and tone. These ingredients are efficiently delivered to the skin through Helix-D’s patent-pending technologies—Dual Liposome Technology, which protects the full potency of the ingredients before skin contact; Double Helix-D Delivery System, which protects ingredients from being neutralized by skin’s natural defense; and Low Polar Friction-Free Delivery System, which lets ingredients penetrate the deep layers of the skin.

By integrating optimal concentrations of active ingredients into a single formulation and targeting all skin problems simultaneously, Helix-D offers a truly effective skincare that enhances and transforms your skin to its true radiance and ageless beauty!

Helix-D Face & Neck and Helix-D Eye Serum are very concentrated so a little goes a long way. For best results, use serums together as part of your daily skincare routine.

Say goodbye to dull, gloomy skin without the hassles of spending too much time and money on countless beauty products. Get Helix-D Face & Neck and Helix-D Eye Serums at the beauty section of the SM Stores in SM Aura, SM Makati, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA and SM Mall of Asia today!

Batang Lampara, Batang Kuwentista: Lampara Storytelling Competition 2016



On its fifth year, Lampara Publishing House and the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) are once again hosting Batang Lampara, Batang Kwentista, a storytelling competition with creative workshops designed to enhance the participants’ storytelling and performance skills.

Register now to begin a fun journey of learning, self-discovery and the exciting process of story-telling to regale audiences with some of the most loved and value-laden children’s tales!

HOW TO REGISTER

1. Application forms are available at all PRECIOUS PAGES outlets in Metro Manila, and the PETA Theater Center located at No. 5 Eymard Drive, New Manila Quezon City. Interested applicants may also email  petastorytelling@gmail.com   to request for an electronic copy of the form.

2. Fill out the registration form and submit to any of the PRECIOUS PAGES outlets or to the PETA Theater Center with the following:
a. Photocopy of school registration form 
b. 2x2 photo 
c. Registration fee of P 400.00 which will cover workshop and cost of material

Deadline of Registration is on August 19, 2016.

COMPETITION RULES

The competition is open in two categories:
Category A for children Grades 1-4
Category B for children Grades 5-7

Each school may send up to 3 participants per category.

1. Storytelling workshop and selection of finalists
Registered participants should be available to join a 4-hour workshop to be held at the PETA Theater Center. The performance showcase at the end of the workshop shall determine the 10 finalists for each category. Announcement of finalists will be on September 5, 2016.

2. Finalists’ Workshop.
All finalists will be invited to join a 1-day storytelling workshop on September 9, 2016 to be conducted by PETA ARTIST-TEACHERS to prepare them for the finals.

3. Finals.
The finals will be held during the Manila International Book Fair on September 16, 2016 at the SM Mall of Asia SMX Convention Center.  

PRIZES
The top three winners will receive cash prizes as follows:
1st Prize  P 15,000.00
2nd Prize P 10,000.00
3rd Prize P 7,000.00

Plus trophies, certificates and gift packs from Lampara Publishing House, Inc. for winning storytellers and their respective coaches.

For more information, contact:

LAMPARA STORYTELLING SECRETARIAT
0916-6067756 (Justin Castillo)
(02) 725-6244 loc 23,
(02) 410-0821 to 22
petastorytelling@yahoo.com

Saturday, July 16, 2016

JAM & DANCE WITH FBC REBIRTH, NONOY ZUNIGA AND PAULINE CUETO AT RJ BISTRO



RJ Bistro is celebrating 3 decades of  groovy music. And part of  its anniversary month, they'll be  having Jam & Dance with FBC Rebirth Band on July 20 (Wednesday) at 8:30pm!
The Pop Icon Nonoy Zuñiga will be there as special guest, and, introducing the budding singer Pauline "Pau" Cueto.



Nonoy is an accomplished singer, part of his advocacy is to support new and upcoming singers. Zuñiga's singing career spans more than 3 decades, as a folk singer from 1971 to 1975 and then as one of the lead singers of the Family Birth Control Band which performed in the best nightspots and hotels like Philippine Plaza, Holiday Inn and The Manila Hotel from 1975- 1980. All his performances in the US from 1983 to the present are well-acclaimed. He has also performed in Asia including the major cities of Australia, Japan, South Korea, China and New Zealand.



Pauline "Pau" Cueto will do the front act on July 20. Her self-titled album is already out in the market. She was a weekly contender at TV5's Born to be A Star. Check out the official music video of her carrier single "Dreamboy Ng Buhay Ko" .


For your information, Nonoy was with the Family Birth Control Band when he lost his right limb which happened during the Martial Law days. He still jams with his old band whenever his schedule permits. Family Birth Control is now known as FBC Rebirth and still provides the disco music and popular songs of yore which made them big 40 years ago.

Nonoy with the FBC Rebirth Band
Photo CTTO


Members are (still the original gang)   Jiji Sanchez, Toots Almazan, Ferdy Flores, Peachy Murillo, Jess Balmaceda, Sammy Villarin, Gee CArlos, Danny Trias, Dex Ansay, Nilo Villanueva, and Edwin Valente.


 "Sigaw Ng Puso" by Barney Borja, the newest digital single of Nonoy Zuniga is now available via iTunes, Spotify and Dezzeer.


The OPM Hitmaker is also a certified Skin Care Specialist and a partner of  Piel Skin Acne and Wellness Center  located at 2nd Flr  The Makati Place 7232 Ayala Ave., Ext.Cor., Malugay St.

For tickets to Jam and Dance please call up 0928 2801551, 0916 5681357 and 02- 9579537.

Follow Pauline Cueto on Facebook , Instagram, Twitter and Subscribe on her YouTube Channel.

Like and Follow FBC Rebirth band on Facebook .

Friday, July 15, 2016

Welcome to Victoria Court... Where love always wins.



Last July 13, 2016, marked another milestone for Victoria Court - the first ever "BED CON" (Presscon in BED) with their uber sexy power couple Troy Montero and Aubrey Miles. The Renewal, theme for the night, expresses not just the continuation of the strong relationship of Victoria Court and the entertainment world's sweetest couple but also the reminder that all kinds of love are welcome with open arms.

Victoria CoUrt's Managing Director, Angelina Mead King 


The lovely couple Angelina and Joey Mead King and the Ambassadors of Victoria Court
Aubrey Miles and Troy Montero


To emphasize that love always wins at Victoria Court, Managing Director Angelina Mead King and her gorgeous wife Joey Mead King surprised the crowd as they walked thru the electronic doors of the Space Wars Party Suite at Victoria Court Canley, showing their support and love for their good friends and their advocacy.

It was an amazing night - sci-fi ambiance, chill music, comfortable chit-chat and literally "out of this world" food.







Since Victoria Court is known for their thematic parties, they created a very intergalactic menu. Examples are the Dark Side Burgers, Master's Tofu and the crowd favorite - "A-TAY fighters", Liver wrapped in bacon and sandwiched between 2 purple nacho chips. Very creative and innovative, a complete experience created to tickle all the senses - sight, sound and taste.


Some of the industry's top news and entertainment personalities were there to show their support. Partying with the ambassadors were Nelson Canlas, MJ Marfori, Oscar Oida, Camille Abadicio and Ian Galluigez, that's just to name a few.

Overall, the Celebrity Ambassador launch was more than just a renewal of a contract, it was more than just a usual event, it was a statement. Victoria Court's message is loud and clear - We welcome all kinds of love with open arms.

Love is Love. One love... Only at Victoria Court.