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With the unprecedented global health crisis, companies under SM today stand in solidarity with the nation and the citizenry in the battle against COVID-19.

SM today assured all of its employees their regular compensation as well as the extension of an Emergency Financial Assistance to its front liners, security guards and janitorial staff during the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) period from March 16 to April 14, 2020. The extent of this assistance includes the following:

All employees will receive their regularly scheduled salaries during the ECQ period without deductions made against their Vacation and Sick Leaves;

The company’s front liners, who comprise the skeletal workforce, will, in addition, be provided with premium pay;

All Security Guards and Janitorial staff will receive financial assistance of PHP5,000 for the period.

It is focused on helping these key resources so that they in turn can be of service to others.

On a daily basis since the ECQ, SM has also been undertaking measures to protect the safety and welfare of its front line personnel with protective gear, meals, and transportation whenever possible.

“In these trying times, we are in uncharted territory. Let’s be one with each other, united in the spirit of service. Let’s be mindful of our front liners and help with their need to be alert so they can continue to do their best in working for the safety and health of our communities,” said Hans T. Sy on behalf of the Sy family.

SM continues to assess the health crisis with vigilance; enjoining its employees and the public to follow guidelines and precautions to help combat the virus.

This financial assistance is another commitment to fighting the negative effects of COVID-19. Earlier, SM made separate announcements to waive tenant rentals nationwide as well as to support health workers as they actively fight the spread of COVID-19 with PHP100 million worth of protective equipment, testing kits and supplies.

Tea is one of the oldest drinks in history. Even during ancient times and during the times of emperors, tea is one of the drinks that they consumed and enjoyed. In fact, the history of tea dates back to ancient China, almost 5,000 years ago.

According to legend, in 2732 B.C. Emperor Shen Nung discovered tea when leaves from a wild tree blew into his pot of boiling water. He was immediately interested in the pleasant scent of the resulting brew, and drank some. This is how tea was born.

These days, you will see people toting a cup of tea and drinking it like any other drink but here are 5 things that you need to know when you have a cup of tea because it is not just your everyday, ordinary drink.

Green tea is the healthiest beverage in the world. It is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that have powerful effects on the body, helping it to increase metabolism which aids in weight loss. The other powerful effects include improved brain function, fat loss, a lower risk of cancer and many more.

White Tea is the least processed among black tea and green tea. Due to this, white tea retains a high amount of antioxidants which help reduce the risk of heart disease and combats skin aging. It is also very effective at reducing inflammation from free radicals in human skin cells.

Black Tea, on the other hand, is stronger in flavor and contains more caffeine than other teas, but less caffeine than coffee. It also offers a variety of health benefits because it contains antioxidants and compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body. It also helps lower blood pressure. Results found that those who drank black tea had a significant decrease in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Oolong Tea is known to revitalize your mental alertness and performance, naturally, because it contains caffeine. Be careful if you are sensitive to caffeine and limit your consumption to one lightly steeped cup a day, or indulge a few times a week. This is also the strongest amongst the four variants.

Green Tea with Jasmine Flowers is believed to help reduce stress and helps to induce calm before sleep. This makes it the perfect cup of tea to have an hour before going to bed.

All these benefits can be found inside Legánde’s Tea Products. You can purchase Legánde’s Tea variants via Legánde.com or visit them at Suite 406, West Tower, Philippine Stock Exchange Center, Ortigas Center, Barangay San Antonio, Pasig City, Metro Manila, Philippines, 1605. Legánde’s Tea comes in 5 variants: green tea, white tea, black tea, oolong tea, and green tea with jasmine flower. You can also check their Facebook Page to send them a message.

It’s so easy to get caught up in the never-ending cycle of work, sleep, and more work. After awhile, your body screams in protest and demands you pay attention to its needs. We need to take care of ourselves! After all this is the only body that we have.

Schedule time for yourself! Beyond Care Wellness & Aesthetic Incorporated located at Unit 3C The Symphony Towers, Tower, 2 Sgt. Esguerra Ave, Diliman, Quezon City is one of those perfect places to pamper.

When we fill out our calendars for the day, we usually don’t schedule in time for ourselves. We remember important conference calls, meetings, and deadlines. Next time you start filling out your daily calendar schedule blocks of time for yourself. Schedule time in the morning for some exercise.

Recently, I had the chance to experience “black carbon laser peel” recently at Beyond Care Wellness & Aesthetic! It's a painless, non-invasive facial that uses nano-carbon particles with a high intensity pulse of light to destroy dirt and blackheads that are clogged deep in skin follicles.

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My face feels supple and looks brighter right after the treatment!

I also tried their Firmalift, it's a quick RF (radio frequency) treatment for the face. Radio-frequency skin tightening is an aesthetic technique that uses radio frequency (RF) energy to heat skin with the purpose of stimulating cutaneous collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid production in order to reduce the appearance of fine lines and loose skin. It provides effective results by delivering heat to the tissue below the epidermis, stimulating collagen production and contracting fibers to tighten the skin. I really feel a bit of tightening on my face right after the treatment.

Beyond Care Wellness & Aesthetic Incorporated located at Unit 3C The Symphony Towers, Tower, 2 Sgt. Esguerra Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila. Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeyondCareQC/

Get on the fitness journey with the best Mega Tuna yet! Check out the new and improved Mega Tuna made from 100% pure tuna with a new look and richer flavors!

#MakeTheMegaMove! 🐟

Are you hell-bent on pursuing a healthy lifestyle starting 2020? Then you’ll be thrilled to know that you can get on the fitness with Mega Tuna, which brings you wellness and great taste all in one can.

As more people embark on the road to health and fitness, Mega Tuna has recently relaunched its offerings with a new look and even richer flavors. Held last February 22 at the Palm Drive Activity Center of Glorietta, Mega Tuna hosted Mega Move, an afternoon of heart-pumping, adrenaline-boosting full-body workout fitness-party. Guests showed off their moves at the pound class activity, a combination of cardio and weight training exercise approach that includes some of the rhythmic techniques used in Pilates, making it perfect for the Mega Tuna community to enjoy.

Guest Celebrity chef, JP Anglo, also showed-off a simple, quick and easy recipe using Mega Tuna with his savory tuna yogurt cucumber wrap with quinoa tomato salad, and camote chips on the side. Featuring bigger flakes and a richer flavor, this is the best Mega Tuna yet – tasting even better than its previous offerings. Proving that healthy eating can be within easy reach of Filipinos, Mega Tuna has reformulated its offerings so that you’ll never run out of options in your journey to fitness.

Guests, influencers, and consumers were able to enjoy the new and improved Mega Tuna for the first time through the samplings and a buffet spread. They also took part in exciting activities such as a Memory Game and a Just Dance routine.

Made especially for those who want to embrace a healthy lifestyle, Mega Tuna contains no textured vegetable protein (TVP) or soy protein concentrate, also known as extenders, bringing you real tuna taste without the guilt.

Mega Tuna comes in four different variants—Flakes in Oil, Hot and Spicy, Spanish Style, and Sweet and Spicy—so you’ll never run out of flavors to match your mood or appetite. Whether you eat it straight out of the can, add garnishing, or use it as part of a favorite recipe, Mega Tuna will definitely make a great companion as you go about your fitness journey.

Enjoy good health and get fit with the new Mega Tuna – the best Mega Tuna Yet!

Share your wellness and health journey with Mega Tuna on social using the hashtags #OurBestMegaTunaYet and #MakeTheMegaMove!

House Ways and Means Chair and education reform advocate Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda (Albay, 2nd district) has introduced a reform of Republic Act No. 10533, or Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, which established the K to 12 system in the country. Salceda’s proposal, which he calls the “K to 12 Reform Act,” is part of Salceda’s Comprehensive Education Reform Agenda, emphasizes employability, “skills for the future,” effectiveness of learning materials, and technical and vocational competence.

“There are four main problems that my bill is trying to address: First, Filipino teenagers, according to the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2018, are among the most academically challenged students in the world. Second, K to 12 graduates are not yet employable. Third, learning materials are depressingly deficient in content and effectiveness,” Salceda said.

In the bill’s explanatory note, Salceda also cites a finding by The Commission on Audit (COA), in its 2018 audit report of the Department of Education, that the agency procured over P254 million worth of learning materials that supposedly contained significant errors and deficiencies that “rendered these instructional materials of poor quality.”

“Combine all of these issues in one picture, and the scene is alarming. As an economic policymaker, part of my job is to make this country economically attractive. Sorry to say this, but the quality of our education system makes my job extremely difficult. This country cannot compete in the age of artificial intelligence with such a poorly-trained, poorly-equipped workforce. Matalino naman ang Pilipino ‘pag dinala mo sa ibang bansa. Kaya obvious na sistema natin ang problema,” Salceda said.

The key features of Salceda’s bill are:

Emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a bridge to both employment and higher education;
Ensure that the mother tongue-based materials produced are actually in the native language of the learner, and not in a regional language that may be as foreign to her as English or Filipino;
A workforce development plan to ensure that K to 12 graduates are employable in the country’s top employers and high-value industries;
TVET as the default senior high school option, while maintaining the other tracks as alternatives;
Inclusion of courses in senior high school that can be certified as skills by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority;
The creation of a Learning Materials Development Center under the UP College of Education to serve as a quality assurance mechanism and independent auditor of the accuracy and effectiveness of textbooks; Curricular deloading, with emphasis on retaining and creating courses that build skills for the future;
Encouragement of summer internships among senior high school students.

“Under my bill, basta graduate ka ng senior high, meron ka nang work experience at TESDA certifications. Under the proposal, you won’t just carry a piece of paper saying you finished senior high school. You actually have skills that will make you employable,” Salceda added.

Citing TESDA’s certification programs, Salceda also says that “my bill will also reorient quite radically the way we think about Technical and Vocational Education. Our flawed mindset right now makes us think that you’re either a tech-voc grad or a college grad. It’s not an either-or in my bill. Tech-voc is the bridge to both college and a job if you don’t want to go to college.”

Salceda’s bill, for example, mandates that all senior high school curricula offer TESDA-certifiable courses that align with the senior high school track.

“I imagine how easy my college life would have been if, say, I was able to take TESDA’s Programming course before I entered Management Engineering. Make no mistake: Tech-Voc is solid footing for college.” Salceda said.

Following the findings of the Schools for the Future Report of the World Economic Forum, Salceda’s bill also emphasizes the integration of the following skills into the curriculum:

Global citizenship skills including content that focuses on building awareness about the wider world, sustainability and playing an active role in the global community; Innovation and creativity skills, including content that fosters skills required for innovation, including complex problem-solving, analytical thinking, creativity and systems analysis; Technology skills, including content that is based on developing digital skills, including programming, digital responsibility and the use of technology; and Interpersonal skills, including content that focuses on interpersonal emotional intelligence, including empathy, cooperation, negotiation, leadership and social awareness.

“Simple lang po ang resulta ng bill ko: mas magaan ang workload ng estudyante at teacher, mas skilled ang graduate kaya mas maraming trabaho ang pwedeng kunin, at mas maganda ang kalidad ng learning material at textbook,” Salceda concluded.

German pharmaceutical company STADA Arzneimittel AG based in Bad Vilbel, Germany recently announced their acquisition of the established Philippine OTC and food supplement, FERN-C. STADA specializes in the production of generic and over-the-counter drugs. In 2018, their revenue totaled €2.33 billion.

FERN-C is currently the #1 Sodium Ascorbate non-acidic vitamin C in the Philippines that helps boost your immunity to protect your body from infectious diseases.

Sharmaine Abarientos, General Manager of STADA Philippines said, “With FERN C in our portfolio, we will establish a strong consumer healthcare platform to launch other quality medicines as well and provide better health for all Filipinos.”

“The acquisition of FERN C will help us to execute our growth ambitions in the Philippines,” commented STADA CEO Peter Goldschmidt.

After announcing a number of acquisitions and partnerships in Europe recently, the STADA Group is also expanding its portfolio in the Asia-Pacific region. As the global manufacturer of high-quality generic drugs and consumer healthcare products announced today, STADA is acquiring the FERN C portfolio in the Philippines, one of the leading brands in the growing local vitamin C market. The product range consists of FERN C, a vitamin C product that has been in the market for 15 years, and two children's vitamin products - FERN C Kidz and Kiddimin.

STADA has a long lasting history of selling pharmaceutical products into the Philippines, formerly through Croma Medic Inc., which was recently renamed as STADA Philippines. 'After having formally launched STADA Philippines, we are now fully enabled to execute our growth ambitions in this market as well. The acquisition of FERN C will help us to succeed. The acquisition of these products is in line with our strategy of strengthening our portfolio with well-established consumer healthcare brands and also expanding in selected emerging markets', states STADA CEO Peter Goldschmidt.

Sharmaine Abarientos, General Manager of STADA Philippines, adds: 'FERN C has not only an established brand heritage, but also a complete range for adults as well as for the pediatric application. With FERN C in our portfolio, we will establish a strong consumer healthcare platform to launch other quality medicines as well and provide better health for all Filipinos. With our successful portfolio expansion activities, we are able to offer quality medicines at reasonable prices, across all segments of healthcare; specialty, generics and consumer health.'

About STADA Arzneimittel AG

STADA Arzneimittel AG is headquartered in Bad Vilbel, Germany. The company focuses on a two pillar strategy consisting of generics, including specialty pharmaceuticals and non-prescription consumer health products. Worldwide, STADA Arzneimittel AG sells its products in approximately 120 countries. In financial year 2018, STADA achieved adjusted Group sales of EUR 2,330.8 million and adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) of EUR 503.5 million. As of December 31, 2018, STADA employed 10,416 people worldwide.

Cupid isn’t alone in purveying love this Valentine’s Day as Commercenter Alabang introduces its wide array of date options that will be sure to spark romance between you and your special someone. From gastronomic adventures to pampering escapades, the southern lifestyle hub has all you need for the ultimate kilig experience.

Step up your game from roses and chocolates to an entire bucket list of duo must-dos. Here are some ideas on how to make the most out of Valentine’s Day at Commercenter Alabang:

Food is love served on a plate

In aged prose, lovers promise to give the world to each other as proof of their sincerity and of course, love! But we all know there’s no way you can “give” a 12,742-kilometer sphere to anyone, no matter how special the person may be. *insert sad eyes emoji*

You can, however, give your special someone a taste of global cuisine. From Asian Haute dishes to western culinary delectable, Commercenter Alabang boasts an extensive selection of restaurants that couples can explore to make their Valentine’s Day extra special.

Akrotiri offers real Greek cuisine that will surely delight those with an adventurous palate. Couples and individuals are most welcome to celebrate love on February 14 as Akrotiri offers a three-course menu for one or two people from 6PM to 8PM at the price of PHP1,500 and PHP2,500, respectively.

Treat your other half to authentic, top-quality Japanese food at Kessaku – a gem of a restaurant for Japanese food lovers. With many options to choose from – sushi, ramen, tempura, sashimi, teppanyaki, okonomiyaki and more – it is with no doubt that your cravings for the flavors of Japan will be satisfied. Kessaku also offers low-carb options on their menu, replacing Japanese rice with cauliflower rice and serving shirataki noodles instead of ramen.

Need to travel to Europe for good European food? Nah. The Black Pig takes pride in its innovative variety of European-inspired dishes that can make the western gastronomic experience truly enjoyable. Its special charcuterie is a must try! The dish features five varieties of Spanish Iberico complemented by the finest of French cheeses. Cap off the night with a glass of The Black Pig’s signature wine!

If you want a more romantic and intimate date spot this Valentine’s Day with your amore, Commercenter Alabang’s Mona Lisa Restaurant is the place for you. The restaurant’s menu is a collection of dishes from different regions of Italy. With a wide variety of starters, soups, salads, pizzas, pasta, main dishes and desserts, couples won’t fall short on experiencing the best of Italian cuisine.

Couples who get pampered together stay forever

What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than to kiss sore backs and aching muscles goodbye, together. Take your loved one on a spa date this Valentine’s Day at Commercenter Alabang’s Comodo Spa & Massage. Enjoy the perfect luxe escape for you and your partner with the spa’s wide selection of massage treatments that will make both of you feel invigorated from head to toe.

Bring your loved ones to Fringe Salon, an ideal stop for high-quality hair treatments and makeovers. The salon offers a variety of services from nail treatments and massages to relaxing modern facials to ensure couples feel comfortable and relaxed throughout their stay.

Go on a shopping date and buy your partner-in-crime the perfect present at Luxuri Manila. The shop offers a collection of authentic and pre-loved designer items that are perfect for couples looking for surprise gifts for one another this Valentine’s Day.

P.S. I love… movies

Movie houses are probably among the most romantic date spots since time immemorial. For an hour or so you and your special someone get to live in your own bubble as you enjoy adventures in galaxies far, far away or familiar local sites playing on the silver screen -- not to mention the unexpected I’m-scared hugs in horror movies or quick cheek kisses during chick flicks.

The Commercenter Cinema brings the premium movie experience you and your movie buddy deserve this Valentine’s Day. With its 3D viewing technology, crystal-clear digital screen, Dolby Digital 7.1 surround sound system, highly comfortable seats and wide legroom, the Commercenter Cinema deserves a place in your top options for a Valentine’s Day movie date.

After a day of kilig, you can present your single-purchase receipt of a minimum PHP1000 from any Commercenter Alabang establishment to try your luck on Pachinko. Winners will receive movie tickets at Commercenter Cinemas, a bucket of popcorn at Taters and gift certificates worth PHP1000 from A-won Korean Restaurant.

The day won't also be complete without an album of snaps! Take tons of selfies and IG-worthy shots as Commercenter Alabang will be giving more movie tickets for couples who post the best shots and caption on Instagram or Facebook about their date at Commercenter Alabang.

If you are planning the perfect staycation this Valentine’s Day, Commercenter Alabang has a year-long partnership with The Bellevue Manila and B Hotel Alabang. Couples who want to experience the complete hotel and movie experience can book the Room and Cinema Bundle from the hotels, which will entitle them to two movie tickets at Commercenter Cinemas, a free bucket of popcorn, a 10 percent discount on drinks at Taters and a complimentary shuttle service within the Alabang Commercial District.

The south is the place to be this Valentine’s Day. Whether you have a simple or grand date plan in mind, Commercenter Alabang has got you covered!

Stay updated with Commercenter Alabang’s latest activities by following its official Facebook and Instagram accounts. Also, visit Commercenter Alabang official website at www.commercenter.ph for more details.

ABOUT COMMERCENTER ALABANG

Commercenter Alabang is a boutique mall located in the heart of Filinvest City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City owned and operated by Philippine Allied Enterprises Corporation (PAEC). It features a unique mix of shops and restaurants that cater to the distinct lifestyle of the South.

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