by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 20, 2020 | Business
The pandemic has left many Filipinos with a lot of difficulties to deal with, and the last thing they need is to be stranded on the road due to car problems. AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, is here to help ease the stress and worries of commuters with the Emma by AXA app, which now enables convenient filing of motor claims anytime, anywhere.
Easy car insurance claims features were previously available on the AXA Assist app, which will be decommissioned starting November 1, 2020, and replaced by the Emma by AXA app.
Powered by AXA Philippines, the Emma by AXA app also offers access to 24/7 roadside, ambulance, police, and fire assistance for free. Through the app, Filipinos can also buy life and general insurance online, as well as monitor investments, funds, transaction history, and access AXA’s e-servicing features.
Rahul Hora, President and CEO of AXA Philippines
“At AXA, we are all about protecting what matters to our customers,” said Rahul Hora, AXA Philippines President & Chief Operating Officer. “Given the pandemic, we have continued to innovate our processes and procedures to make it easier for our customers to avail of our services in the safest and secure way possible. We also understand the stress motorists face when road accidents happen so with the Emma by AXA app, we hope to help them by anticipating any problems that may arise and mitigating any detrimental effects.”
To avail of this top-notch service, simply download the Emma by AXA on the Google Play or App Store. Then, register a valid email address, verify your e-mail via the e-mail verification link, set the password, and log in and start using the app anytime, anywhere.
Commuters can now drive with confidence in the Philippines with the help of Emma by AXA app, which can now process motor claims anytime, anywhere, complete with roadside and emergency assistance. To know more, visit https://www.axa.com.ph/emma.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 15, 2020 | Business
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought uncertainties and disruptions in the lives of most Filipinos, including businesses nationwide.
When the National Government mandated all business establishments to implement COVID-19 Prevention and Control Measures to mitigate the effects of the pandemic, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) complied and implemented immediate and essential changes in its operations in order to ensure the safety and well-being of its people.
PCPPI created a playbook that contains action points, policies, and procedures, and served as a primary guide to the company’s “new normal”.
“This playbook aims to help our employees, or our Bravehearts, get and stay on track. It offers easy-to-read tips and measures as we return to work and live under the new normal. This also reminds us to continue caring for ourselves and one another. I hope that with this playbook, our employees will be able to re-build their momentum and work with renewed strength, so we can help sustain our organization and continue its growth during and beyond the new normal,” PCPPI President and CEO Frederick Ong said.
PCPPI believes improving one’s health and well-being is fundamental in the country’s fight against COVID-19. This playbook is also meant to promote mental health awareness through effective people management.
“Aside from educating and enforcing the new working protocols that both the government and science prescribe on the new normal, that includes frequent hand washing, social distancing, and wearing of face mask/shield, in PCPPI, we understand that our employees’ health and welfare start mainly with self-care and their mental well-being,” Ong added.
The company encourages its employees to practice self-care. Their own health and well-being must come first before anyone and anything else. The playbook also provides mental health care tips, as mental health is as important as physical health, especially during this time of a pandemic.
It is important to stay socially connected while physically distanced. Here are PCPPI’s pieces of advice in mental health care:
- Maintain connections with friends, family, and loved ones. Leverage on technology.
- Develop coping skills.
- Seek medical and professional help when needed.
Embracing changes
PCPPI welcomed changes through three interdependent focus areas in the playbook. The first focus area dubbed “Great to be back”, highlighted the importance of getting the correct information and guidance on the new normal; the second focus area called “Great to be Pepsi” talked about setting the right mindset as employees embark on the new normal; and lastly, the “Great for others” focus area is about taking action for others and the environment.
The company also conducted a series of webinars on COVID-19, with Dr. Yvonne Ferrer of DLSU Department of Pharmacology; and on Stress Management for employees to deal with the effects of the pandemic, work-from-home set-up, and preparing them for the new normal.
“It is our goal to maintain a healthy balance to support our employees, the community, and the business. The company is committed to remaining responsible in delivering our obligations in service to the Filipino people,” Ong added. “Let us make it a social responsibility to look after ourselves, customers, families, friends, organization, community, and the environment, all pulling together to move forward.”
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 15, 2020 | Business
Cliché as it may sound, life has to go on but be it not forgotten that we can’t continue ignoring our body’s natural rhythm. Our individual uniqueness has equipped us with varied energy set up. While others may need more sleep than normal, some are designed with more sensitivity to asymmetries in daily routine. Ignoring our bodily-sent warning signals to slow down may cause health problems later on.
Fortunately, the prowess of the universe works in different mysterious ways, and more often than not, destiny is one of the words that the brain can essentially define. NOVUHAIR®, 2019 leading natural hair loss treatment (Euromonitor Passport Data October 2019), partnered with one of the country’s top Feng Shui Experts Master Hanz Cua.
Backed up by 15 years of practice, Master Hanz is the 9th expert to join the brand’s roster of VIP Coaches this year, working closely with the NOVUHAIR® Team in spreading the brand’s advocacy campaign in celebration of its 10th successful year in the market.
Dubbed as Novuhair’s Feng Shui VIP Coach, Master Hanz supported the launch of its “10.10 NOVUHAIR® LUCKY DEALS” at Lazada which runs from October 10-18, 2020. Avail of up to a 20% discount on NOVUHAIR® products.
Read more at https://bit.ly/3diTZtw.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 13, 2020 | Business
People have been strictly observing hygiene practices and social distancing as their first line of defense against COVID-19. However, there is more you can do to protect yourself and your family against the threat of this pandemic, especially with hospitalizations, lab tests, medicines, and the financial impact that these can make.
AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, has expanded its Global Health Access (GHA) insurance product to now include medical coverage for epidemic and pandemic illnesses such as COVID-19.
This is on top of the other high-tier GHA healthcare benefits, including access to AXA’s global network of top-rated hospitals and medical practitioners, concierge, international emergency medical assistance, road ambulance transport, and 24/7 Health Support. GHA also offers convenient cashless payment options within a network of over 1,400 hospitals and clinics in the Philippines and over 9,000 hospitals worldwide.
Moreover, customers may avail of a new GHA plan option, Gold Lite Plus. Like all existing GHA plan options, the Gold Lite Plus Plan provides a full spectrum coverage from common illnesses to life-threatening diseases including pandemic illnesses such as COVID-19.
Rahul Hora, President and CEO of AXA Philippines
“As we continue to face a global health crisis, it is imperative that we take care of ourselves and our families. With AXA Global Health Access, including the new Gold Lite Plus Plan option, we are providing an enhanced way for individuals and families to have access to the best treatment and healthcare service,” said AXA Philippines president and CEO Rahul Hora.
Through the Gold Lite Plus Plan, policyholders can avail of up to Php100 million for inpatient and outpatient treatments of up to 15 visits per year at a maximum of P1,000 per visit.
Another key feature of the new plan option is health screening or executive check-up coverage of up to Php20,000 per year. Customers may also choose to use part of this benefit to reimburse their over-the-counter vitamins (up toPhp2,500). In addition, this health plan covers up to Php7,500 per night for inpatient daily accommodation charges in the Philippines or regular private room for international hospital accommodations.
Have enhanced world-class health coverage against pandemic illnesses and other diseases anytime, anywhere with AXA Global Health Access. To learn more, visit www.axa.com.ph/health-protection/global-health-access.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 12, 2020 | Health and Wellness
As attractive as they look like in a pot, aloe vera plants have been hailed as a natural ingredient with many positive skin benefits for thousands of years. Aloe vera leaves are full of gel-like texture that are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids.
Aloe Vera also contains enzymes that repair dead skin cells, while moisturizing the skin. It is rich in vitamins C and E which are nutrients that improve the skin’s elasticity, for a firmer and youthful look.
Back in 2018, the rise of aloe vera gel tubs has taken over the Philippine beauty community. Aloe vera’s ability to soothe and provide hydration to the skin boosted its popularity in the ever-humid country. And now aloe vera is proving to be an effective ingredient not only for the skincare world but also for the hair care industry.
Experience Plant-Powered Showers with the Benefits of Aloe Vera
In its raw form, aloe vera can be used as a mild cleansing agent that gets rid of dirt and product build-up, while leaving hair smooth and with more volume. But if you’re not into rubbing plant leaves on your hair, you can also experience #PlantPowerInEveryShower with Herbal Essences Bio:Renew blend shampoos that contain real aloe vera, kelp, and histidine. It hydrates each strand to provide frizz control, adds shine, and nourishes dry hair — making hair soft, manageable, and smelling great.
Herbal Essences Bio:Renew shampoos are crafted with an amino acid called histidine, which acts as a superfood for the hair trapping and neutralizing the elements that can cause damage in the hair — such as pollution, sun exposure, and even shower water. With the power of aloe vera, and other plant-based ingredients, Herbal Essences Bio:Renew shampoos are pH-balanced and free of parabens, silicone, and colorants which make it color-safe to use for color-treated hair to bring out its natural beauty.
Clean Beauty Transparency in Every Bottle
Transparency and sustainability are at the core of Herbal Essences Bio:Renew. As a catalyst for clean beauty, Herbal Essences continues with its mission to provide safe and non-toxic hair care options. And with the continued commitment to ingredient transparency in every bottle, all the high-quality botanicals and REAL plant extracts used are harvested sustainably and responsibly through various partners from all over the world. So, when they put a plant on our bottle label, it means it’s truly in there. Plus, all other plants and mineral ingredients undergo limited processing, which ensures a minimal blow on the carbon footprint.
It’s never too late to join the clean beauty community this holiday season. Treat your scalp and hair with the best of nature and science in a bottle.
Shop the Herbal Essences Bio:Renew range through Lazada or Shopee and experience #PlantPowerInEveryShower.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 10, 2020 | Business
Palacio de Memoria has recently expanded its unrivaled curated collection of Euro-Filipino art pieces in its museum, shedding light on the landmark contributions of Christianity to the world from time immemorial.
Camille Lhuillier Palacio de Memoria General Manager
“We are the third-largest Catholic country in the world, and our religion is an important part of our history and our identity as Filipinos. Aside from their artistic merits, we hope the new pieces in our museum will help enlighten people about our Christian cultural heritage,” says Palacio de Memoria general manager Camille Lhuillier.
With the easing of the community quarantine, it is a good time to drop by the museum because there are fewer crowds which gives more time to look at and appreciate the new art pieces. Moreover, people may also find some comfort in the religious museum amid the pandemic.
The majority of the museum’s ecclesiastic collection dates back to the 14th century and spans across time until the 20th century. Among the new must-see items at the Palacio de Memoria museum are unique portraits showing religious figures in interesting and considerable variations from the conventional figurations, particularly those of Christ, the Virgin Mary, different saints, and other iconographies.
Museum visitors can also find paintings depicting religious life, including the 17th-century painting from Spain showing the martyrdom of Saints Fausto, Jenaro, and Marcial of Cordoba, as well as an oil painting dating back to the 17th century Flemish-Spanish school portraying the scourging of Christ.
Also part of the newly curated selection is ivory icons of ethical provenances, such as the Madonna and Child sculpture from 18th century Portugal and the Crucified Christ figure encased in a wooden frame. Museum-goers may also see reliquaries of venerated individuals including the apostles and various saints.
Moreover, Palacio de Memoria’s museum collection extends to church artifacts like furniture, altarpieces, and other items used in a liturgical ceremony. Collection highlights include a wooden oratorio with a tableau of the Holy Family in polychrome terracotta, a two-seat choir stall from 18th century Portugal, a wooden processional cross from Spain, and a bishop’s chair from Bolivia with a depiction of relief of Archangel Michael and the Blessed Virgin along with its wooden frame.
With all these, Palacio de Memoria’s Christian heritage museum unifies the educational and devotional functions of the pieces’ ecclesiastic history all in one place.
Aside from the new pieces, the museum will also soon serve as a chapel where religious gatherings such as an intimate wedding or baptism can be held.
Palacio de Memoria is located at 95 Roxas Boulevard, Tambo, Parañaque. Tours are also available upon request. For more information, visit https://www.palaciodememoria.com or follow @thepalaciodememoria on Facebook and @palacio.de.memoria on Instagram.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 7, 2020 | Business
AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, ties up with the Philippines’ leading carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB), to provide non-travel insurance to the airline’s customer base through CEB Health Protect.
CEB Health Protect, underwritten by AXA Philippines, offers value-for-money coverage for the top three critical illnesses: cancer, heart attack, and stroke. This is the first of a number of products under Cebu Pacific’s new suite of lifestyle insurance packages, launched specifically to cater to its customers’ needs beyond travel.
Through the partnership, the two industry leaders strive to offer customers a convenient and seamless booking process for their insurance needs. Every Filipino or “Juan” may start their journey of availing the health insurance from the comfort and safety of their own homes via CEB’s website, which will redirect them to the AXA Philippines’ website for the fulfillment and issuance of the policy.
“We are very excited over this partnership because now we are able to reach out to more Filipinos who will have access to insurance and financial services,” said AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer Amor Balagtas. “This enables us to fulfill our mission to help secure the future of every Filipino — or in this case — every Juan.”
“Our passengers have always been at the heart of our business and now more than ever, we strive to always give them peace of mind when flying with us,” said Candice Iyog, CEB vice-president for marketing and customer experience.
“Our commitment to ensuring they have a safe and seamless journey with us does not only cover their actual flight but even beyond. We recognize that there is a greater need to take care of every Juan’s health and assets during this time, and that is why we are very excited to introduce CEB Health Protect.”
Aside from CEB Health Protect, AXA Philippines and Cebu Pacific will soon offer every Juan safety and protection with more non-travel insurance products.
Thanks to AXA Philippines and Cebu Pacific, you can start your health journey and be protected and safe today! For more information, visit https://bit.ly/CEBhealthprotect.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 6, 2020 | Events
As of September, more than 1,700 COVID-19 cases were reported in the Bicol region, according to the Department of Health–Center for Health and Development (DOH–CHD) Bicol Regional Director Dr. Ernie D. Vera. The lack of proper equipment and facilities has affected the province’s efforts to control the spread of the virus.
With that, Lopez-led Energy Development Corporation (EDC) refocused its COVID-19 resiliency efforts in its host communities in Bicol to initiatives that will enhance local mass testing capabilities. Through a partnership with the DOH–CHD Bicol, EDC donated P4.2 million to fund the expansion and refurbishment of the health center’s building and COVID-19 testing laboratory, which is one of only two in the Bicol region accredited by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).
The partnership between EDC and DOH–CHD Bicol was formalized with a virtual signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Agreement and Deed of Donation between DOH–CHD Bicol led by Dr. Vera, Assistant Regional Director Ferchito Avelino, Chief of the Management Support Division Norberto Balane Jr., and Cluster Head for Infectious and Communicable Disease Dr. Jannish Alcala Arellano; and EDC led by Senior Vice President and OIC of Facilities, Operations and Maintenance Group Engr. Liberato S. Virata, Assistant Vice President and Corporate Support Functions Head Regina Victoria J. Pascua, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Public Relations Head Atty. Allan V. Barcena, Bacon–Manito (BacMan) Geothermal Facility Head Engr. Marcel Rosario, and BacMan CSR Head Eduardo Jimenez.
“EDC puts a great premium on community development and resiliency. I have seen what we can accomplish by working hand in hand with the local government and I look forward to the beginning of a more dynamic partnership with DOH and other key agencies in ensuring that the people are healthy and safe,” said Virata.
“We believe this partnership will be the best practice for us in government. We are the first regional agency that partnered with a private organization, a power company. It is an honor for us to have EDC as a partner,” said Dr. Vera.
The expansion and refurbishment of the DOH laboratories will ramp up the region’s testing capabilities and help them gather the necessary information to find ways to further flatten the curve and manage the pandemic in the area.
EDC operates the 140MW BacMan Geothermal Project that supplies clean and reliable power to the Luzon grid. It is a global pioneer in the geothermal energy industry and the country’s largest vertically integrated geothermal developer, supplying 1,457.8MW of clean and renewable energy to the Philippines.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 5, 2020 | Lifestyle
Now, your baby can make a fashion statement too with the cutest baby accessory brand in town: Bibs Manila, a new online business that offers bespoke and eye-catching bibs.
The homegrown brand was started by Kit and Kate Joaquin, who are also proud parents to now 6-year-old Kiel. With Bibs Manila, parents can get one-of-a-kind statement bibs for their babies while adding their own personal touches. What’s more, the bibs are made of high-quality fabric, durable enough for everyday meals.
Check out Bibs Manila’s website and simply search for “STATEMENT BIB” and you’ll be directed to a page where you can select your design in just a few clicks. You can even personalize the bib with your baby’s name, your favorite quote, or standout word choices, such as “Awesome” or “Mommy’s Fave,” to name a few. Choose from a variety of colors and fonts, and you’re all set!
Likewise, if you have artistic leanings, you can also opt to send in your own designs that Bibs Manila can turn into bibs just for you. Bibs Manila can also help you create a unique design of your choosing. To make it even easier, Bibs Manila also offers special pre-made bibs in hundreds of designs, featuring fun and colorful patterns, laugh-out-loud catchphrases, and charming characters.
If you happen to know a couple who is expecting a new addition to their family, these baby bibs make great gifts, too. Consider giving them the gift of 7 bibs – one for every day of the week – and you can get an adorable gift box to go with it.
To view and shop Bibs Manila’s collection, visit their website, www.bibsmanila.com, or follow @bibs_manila on Instagram. Bibs Manila ships nationwide in the Philippines and internationally in select countries.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Oct 1, 2020 | Business
Two pesos a kilo for cabbage. Four pesos for cucumber.
After spending to bring their produce to the nearest vegetable trading post in the last week of July, Cordilleran farmers were given a cruel rate, crushing their hope of raising cash to buy seeds for the next harvest.
A Sad Story for New-Gen Farmers
Shereen Umayat and Jessica Dapliyan, two young farmers from Sagada, had a cheaper option for their next maturing vegetables- let the plants rot in the farmland to stop having additional expenses. Asked how much she has spent for her cucumber, Umayat computed it to be at least P40,000. While there are active programs like Sustainable Sagada and Rural Rising organized to help ease the situation, not all produce in the remote Mountain Province town can be accommodated.
Dapliyan, a former innkeeper who shifted to farming following travel bans, started giving away her cabbage produce for free in September after unsuccessful attempts to sell what her family has been working since community quarantine restrictions were implemented.
Trying the Metro Manila Market
For generations, farmers in Sagada and other towns of the Cordilleras have been trading in marketplaces within the mountainous region, and going to the lowlands is not part of their regular routine. But as they run out of options, they are forced to seek help outside the highlands. Tapping Metro Manila-based Cordillerans or Igorots was the first move. Upon learning about the crisis, Christian Aligo, a Marketing Communications practitioner living in Quezon City, started the “The Sagada Harvests Project” on Facebook.
With the assistance from Umayat, Menchie Buking of the Department of Agrarian Reform Mt. Province (DAR MP) and other concerned locals, The Sagada Harvests Project is able to sell out about three tons of produce in its first two runs. Alongside Aligo are other Metro Manila-based Igorots including Luisa Gay Pugong, Jenny Lyn Likigan, Bing Podes Laguipen, and Hector Ngales who transformed themselves into vendors after their day job to help address the crisis.
Joining the force is the couple Atty. Pio and Noemie Jeanet Daoas who now spend their weekends on vegetables. With the help of dedicated riders, the couple delivers the goods within Taguig City at only P20.
A Trade Friendlier to Farmers
As agreed, it is the farmers who set the price of their produce. Currently, in marketplaces, it is the multi-level middlemen who dictate the price and get a bigger portion of it. When the rate at the La Trinidad trading post for cabbage was P2 per kilo, The Sagada Harvests Project purchased the vegetable at P20 per kilo– as dictated by the farmers.
To further assist the Igorot vendors, DAR’s Sagada Linksfarmers Consolidation Center opened its doors to help screen quality produce prior to shipping. Recently, the regional office of the Department of Agriculture (DA) also offered transportation assistance to help lower expenses.
Meanwhile, local food producers Gabay Wines and Food Preserves and Masferre Country Inn & Restaurant have been doing experiments for delicate items like wild blueberry, wheat bread, and goat cheese products to check on the shelf-life of the products when offered in places with a warmer climate.
To know more about The Sagada Harvest Project and a list of Igorot vendors who directly source their goods from farmers, contact Aligo at 0956-174-8464 (Globe) or visit www.facebook.com/sagadaharvests now.
“This playbook aims to help our employees, or our Bravehearts, get and stay on track. It offers easy-to-read tips and measures as we return to work and live under the new normal. This also reminds us to continue caring for ourselves and one another. I hope that with this playbook, our employees will be able to re-build their momentum and work with renewed strength, so we can help sustain our organization and continue its growth during and beyond the new normal,” PCPPI President and CEO Frederick Ong said.
PCPPI welcomed changes through three interdependent focus areas in the playbook. The first focus area dubbed “Great to be back”, highlighted the importance of getting the correct information and guidance on the new normal; the second focus area called “Great to be Pepsi” talked about setting the right mindset as employees embark on the new normal; and lastly, the “Great for others” focus area is about taking action for others and the environment.
Backed up by 15 years of practice, Master Hanz is the 9th expert to join the brand’s roster of VIP Coaches this year, working closely with the NOVUHAIR® Team in spreading the brand’s advocacy campaign in celebration of its 10th successful year in the market.
Dubbed as Novuhair’s Feng Shui VIP Coach, Master Hanz supported the launch of its “10.10 NOVUHAIR® LUCKY DEALS” at Lazada which runs from October 10-18, 2020. Avail of up to a 20% discount on NOVUHAIR® products.
As attractive as they look like in a pot, aloe vera plants have been hailed as a natural ingredient with many positive skin benefits for thousands of years. Aloe vera leaves are full of gel-like texture that are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids.
In its raw form, aloe vera can be used as a mild cleansing agent that gets rid of dirt and product build-up, while leaving hair smooth and with more volume. But if you’re not into rubbing plant leaves on your hair, you can also experience #PlantPowerInEveryShower with Herbal Essences Bio:Renew blend shampoos that contain real aloe vera, kelp, and histidine. It hydrates each strand to provide frizz control, adds shine, and nourishes dry hair — making hair soft, manageable, and smelling great.
“We are very excited over this partnership because now we are able to reach out to more Filipinos who will have access to insurance and financial services,” said AXA Philippines Chief Customer Officer Amor Balagtas. “This enables us to fulfill our mission to help secure the future of every Filipino — or in this case — every Juan.”
“Our passengers have always been at the heart of our business and now more than ever, we strive to always give them peace of mind when flying with us,” said Candice Iyog, CEB vice-president for marketing and customer experience.
“EDC puts a great premium on community development and resiliency. I have seen what we can accomplish by working hand in hand with the local government and I look forward to the beginning of a more dynamic partnership with DOH and other key agencies in ensuring that the people are healthy and safe,” said Virata.
“We believe this partnership will be the best practice for us in government. We are the first regional agency that partnered with a private organization, a power company. It is an honor for us to have EDC as a partner,” said Dr. Vera.
Now, your baby can make a fashion statement too with the cutest baby accessory brand in town: Bibs Manila, a new online business that offers bespoke and eye-catching bibs.
Check out Bibs Manila’s website and simply search for “STATEMENT BIB” and you’ll be directed to a page where you can select your design in just a few clicks. You can even personalize the bib with your baby’s name, your favorite quote, or standout word choices, such as “Awesome” or “Mommy’s Fave,” to name a few. Choose from a variety of colors and fonts, and you’re all set!
Two pesos a kilo for cabbage. Four pesos for cucumber.
As agreed, it is the farmers who set the price of their produce. Currently, in marketplaces, it is the multi-level middlemen who dictate the price and get a bigger portion of it. When the rate at the La Trinidad trading post for cabbage was P2 per kilo, The Sagada Harvests Project purchased the vegetable at P20 per kilo– as dictated by the farmers.
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