Merck Set to Release Fertility Count Scorecard at ASPIRE Congress

Population has always been at an all time high in the Philippines, and what better place to launch this new initiative by Merck: a Fertility Count Scorecard. It's also the best time to happen because it was all laid out during the ASPIRE Congress.

The matter has affected everything socially and economically but this counts as something that would encourage policy makers to incentivize those who choose to pro create and build communities especially in emerging economies like ours.  

Albeit having a slight reduction in birth rates compared to the past decade, they attribute this dip to fertility preferences and the various programs in population control.

Merck has noted this (our country) as a key market compared to those that are in the Asia Pacific Region. We should realize that the key should be making it sustainable, one that would not inhibit growth and development. Our choices will greatly impact what we need as a society, because as much as we don't admit it, a lot of the developed countries are having problems in workforce and declining birth rates.  

For those who don't know, the ASPIRE congress is a place to exchange information especially for those who have a say in decisions that affect a population. This also includes how to provide healthcare and plans on having a manageable birth rate at the end of the day. They also plan to have discussions about it in the event especially for local attendees and regional ones. We are after all, family friendly, and creating a society would be enabling us to implement great policies, and not just lip service.

For Merck to release this Fertility Count Scorecard, it would be quite valuable in a global perspective especially for business leaders or those who plan ahead. The methodology is also a bit more scientific, backed by data, which hopefully would get implemented well. So if you want to know more, just check out the data they have at fertilitycounts.com.

Fighting Social Injustice "Abogado ng Bayan" Atty. Heyz Premieres on PTV4

The Philippines, when you hear about our country and the cases of injustice, do you still believe in the system? Most of you probably have given up, thrown in the towel, flipped the table and wouldn't want to even look if you still have rights in this country of ours. Much of us believe that justice is only for the rich, those who could afford it and just suffer not having what is right. Heartbreaking no?

She started doing this January this year on Facebook, and got traction and love from viewers from across the country. When folks from Velvet Media, Inc., Ms. Michelle Perez, Directors Mar Peralta, Ronald Ryan Litao, Producer Jayjay Maghirang of Velvet and Atty. Heyz got into talks about doing the show, things really felt mutual which made mounting this program quite fast on pubic station PTV4.

Atty.Heyz says "The objective is to help people, there's a higher penetration in broadcast so I could reach more. The PTV4 show will be every Saturday mornings, and will be for all ages. There will be someone who can answer law questions, litigation, because that is what I do on a normal day. I also do corporate contracts, and I am effective in explaining things with the masses. This is one of the things I am doing for public service because I've done much in private practice. You can see that in the episodes we have, some simple, some complicated,  which you can easily digest. If you could see our FB messages, it's a lot and I couldn't answer all of them sometimes, we need to help them all."

 

Actress, Host and Velvet Media Inc. Director of Marketing and Public Relations Ms. Bianca Lapus adds "The best thing about our team is when we have an idea, we share it and believe in it because of our core values. Regardless of our roles, we listen to each other. This is also our first time to venture into TV, it's easy to work with her because our brainstorming took a few minutes and now we are having our first program on Saturday. I hope we could feature more celebrities, like Claudine Barretto, Badjao Girl, so they get to know their rights, or even Vhong when the time is right. Atty. Heyz has that gift when she talks because even kids understand it. She can say things even better than layman's terms. She is really someone for the masses."

Here's our video coverage of the interview last Thursday.

Atty. Heyz definitely has the heart to fight social injustice, even if she's already successful in her private practice and law firm, she makes it a point to help those who need it. If you're someone who wants to understand the laws of the land, or need help to fight for your rights as a citizen of this country, go listen to the discussions and learn what you can do to protect yourself, your family and others. They will also be having guests like celebrities, influencers and personalities to also share their experience. They will also be guided by Atty. Heyz and explain in Tagalog what you need to know.

The show will premiere this Saturday at 10:30AM to 11:30AM. If you missed it, they are also on Facebook, YouTube, TikTok and on PTV4's social channels. This is produced by Velvet Media Inc.

Congressman SAM VERZOSA Promises More Inspiring Stories on Season 3 of "Dear SV" at CNN Philippines

 

I've been looking forward to see Congressman Sam Verzosa who represents the indigents, of those residing in urban locations, the youth and the elderly through the party list "Tutok To Win". He's starting the third season of his public affairs show "Dear SV" shown on CNN Philippines during his birth month, and is quite excited about the plans they have for future episodes.

The show plans to put the young Congressman in immersions, to live with the actual people they plan to help. To give you an idea, they meet people from all walks of life. The goal is, to feature their inspiring stories on why they continue to make a living despite life's challenges. Cong SV says "If the old, the kids work hard doing these things, I'm sure the most able bodied ones would be inspired to do the same and help others."

Here's part of our little chat that afternoon

He treats all these as blessings and shares "My family keeps me grounded, they keep me focused on my goals, my advocacies and purpose. I have a lot on my plate, I am just lucky to have been able to do a lot of these because I believe God put me here. He gave me opportunities to be able to share these to the world, and help others,to also change lives. I am happy to see that people are also doing the same after seeing the show. From our company alone, I've seen them on the road, going out there and helping too. I want to do this for the rest of my life. I'm just maximizing what I can do for my community and also make changes in laws, I have a duty to make a movement because I know my purpose."

When asked about his stint at "Tutok To Win" a few years ago, he says "Kuya Wil actually trained me, he asked me to sit with him during one show, that's where I learned and practiced at home. Everyday is an experience, you can feel what they feel when you are there. I get to see their happiness, their sadness, hosting my own show had me ask people about their struggles and get to know them."

 

About his motivation, he adds "I am happy about what I'm doing, aside from doing business, I help people, I get to change lives, I've been given a platform to be able to be heard even with a wider audience. I'll try doing this to change not just communities, but bigger ones and the country. As for now, I'll do this because I found my purpose, in life you always ask that question, there are tons of people that have more work ethic and because I have the capacity to help, I'll do it."

If you want to learn more about the causes he supports and foundations he's helping, make sure to watch "Dear SV" startiing Saturday night of September, at 7:30PM. This will also be replayed on CNN Philippines the next day so make sure you catch it!

I'd like to take this bit to thank Congressman Sam Verzosa (who also Co-chairs Poverty Alleviation) for being so nice earlier. He gamely answered questions even after the presser, to say the least, it was refreshing to talk to someone albeit super successful but still remained so grounded. Again, thank you!

A Meaningful Shopee 9.9 Super Shopping Day

It was festive and fun over at Shopee's 9.9 Super Shopping Day celebrations at BGC last week. It's been a while since they've done a physical event and it's been ages since bloggers and media guests have seen each other. Announcements of what's going to happen for the weeks going to Shopee 9.9 were in session, and from my seat, I'm quite happy with what I heard especially about the community part which I'll explain in a bit.

BARANGAY SHOPEE

During the sale day, of course you'll get the usual fare. This time however, Shopee is launching Barangay Shopee which is a part of their CSR initiative where users would be able to win a community project for their respective towns. From renovations of basketball courts, multi purpose halls, school supplies, all for the love of their own barangays. All you need to do is post public videos on Facebook with posting guidelines included, send the link on the Barangay Shopee page and you get the chance to win. Details for this are also listed on the Barangay Shopee page in app so make sure you join.

INTENSE "MAS MURA SA SHOPEE" DEALS THIS MONTH  

Starting today til the 11th of September, there will be huge offers on essentials, free shipping sitewide, and even Php 1 deals for items the whole duration. I've seen brands like INSPI, Garnier at the event and some of their other partners who are willing to make sure you get the best price at the app during these dates. 

Chance to Win Php 1 MILLION 

If you shop from September 1st to the 9th, you get the chance to win Php 1 Million if you claim codes for the draw. There will be a guessing game during the draws so you can also win thousands of pesos just by being a viewer and participating in the game. This will all be done during the Shopee Super Shopping Day TV Special which will be streamed live on the app and on GMA with the lovely Marian Rivera and other GMA stars taking part in it.

Here are some snippets of queen Marian Rivera at the Shopee event.

 Make sure you download the app and shop on the dates mentioned so you too have a meaningful Super Shopping Day like me! :)

 

 

Social Democracy: Meet Presidential Aspirant Norberto B. Gonzales

Meet Norberto B. Gonzales. He's a National Security Adviser and general director of the National Security Council - and former Secretary of National Defense. He's a presidential aspirant this 2022 elections under the Philippine Democratic Socialist Party (PDSP). He's also bringing in 20 years of experience in political/peace negotiations, very well a part of what has been done in three different presidential terms and always, have been trusted in these matters.

Mr. Gonzales says "Since PDSP's inception, the youth has been instrumental in change and reform. The organizations sprouted during that time including non religious ones, and we advocated then something that would challenge the dictatorship without resorting to violence and communism."

He adds "The pandemic has been a very serious problem, it has continuously been a part of our lives for a while. It's important to re-organize our medical community, an integral part of what we need to solve this, to have a common position and address this immediately. It's time to invigorate our pharmaceutical industry, so we can make and create our own when things like these happens. The pandemic has made our lives change, but also showed us that nature can renew itself."  

"When I went around the country, I talked to people. When I was in the government, I knew we had the ingredients of a much better nation than what we are today. Our people are good, and we can fix our lives, especially the young ones who are already a part of local government units. When they become politicians, they lose their identity, the system breaks them... and I hope a new one would fix this. I've been working for a decade in the government and I see this would make a huge difference. It's sad to see someone who has been already proven in court is making a comeback, and trying to destroy the truth. I've experienced martial law, and I've suffered that time, we cannot allow those to change history, lives were lost during that time and it is unacceptable. The election is supposed to be a time to choose new directions, new system. The most important asset of a country is its people. The opportunities should be for all, capital should be for everyone. We should stop some politicians from giving away resources to only a few people in this country."

"You know, it's sad to see what's happening to us. When we had the People Power Revolution, I thought this has ended Marcos' reign and all that was stolen from us will be brought back to the Filipino people. This election is important, we need to explain and tell the truth, and tell them about the atrocities of the Marcoses. We need to tell them now, especially the activists that are still living. I promise to tell the youth about history, we should never let them spread lies. It's hard for me to tell the other candidates, so I will try my best to tell the people instead. I believe in my countrymen who can discern right from wrong, I will not put myself in contention with Marcos' campaign."

"My difference is what would make me win from others, I hope that I can be that better person that people can choose among the candidates."

With experience in the matters of the state, he is one qualified individual to run this country. Aside from that, he identifies the pandemic as something that is a huge threat in our national security and believes in the ideologies of social democracy. You now have options, make that vote count in May.

The 'NAKAW' World Premiere - Pelicula/Pelikula, Manila - Spanish Film Festival

This is the first time that BUZZ Productions and Cut!Print is venturing into the independent film business and they've done it in a very opportune time as part of the entries in Pelikula/Pelicula, The Manila-Spanish Film Festival. It has been going on for several years now and for those who adore Spanish, Latin American and Filipino films, this should ALWAYS be in your calendar because this is part of the activities hosted by the Spanish Embassy, Instituto Cervantes and now the Film Development Council of the Philippines.

NAKAW is a short film that tells a story of a boy that triggered a series of life changing events when he stole a woman's purse. It also tells a very realistic situation in the slums of Manila. If you frequent places like it, you'll get to connect real fast. I was a little hesitant to ask about how close this is to extra judicial killings and what we sometimes call "cardboard justice", but it wasn't actually just what they wanted to portray, like a mirror to situations happening now but not entirely. I like the fact that they have also done in in one take, continuously shot as you see one particular scene connect to the other. You'll eventually feel bad about the guy Kristoffer King, but somehow feel sorry because in some way, they are human too and they could have had the chance to defend themselves in real courts rather than just the streets.

The film is written and directed by Noel Escondo and Arvin Kadiboy Belarmino (who's not a stranger to indie films). This is also Produced by Patsy Ferrer. The short film actually only takes 6 minutes and 45 seconds so it's a real challenge to tell a story in that time span. It makes me want to do a short film too LOL.

I really think this film could do well in various film festivals outside the country. It's a complex plot, but told in a manner that could be also easily understood by the normal joe. It's not intended for kids though because there is a little part where some adult scenes were done to tell the story of one of the characters. This film stars Kristoffer King, Frank Ferguson, Angelo Gammad, Duke San Juan and Sheika Aljunaibi. It was also an awesome chance to get to know the plight of films like these through the Film Development of the Philippines chair, Liza Dino - Seguerra. She quips we have a lot of challenges but know how talented Filipinos are in the industry, and she hopes to get the world to see what we do here. NAKAW is just one of them, go check out their pages and see screenings locally. 

Thank you BUZZ Productions for having me!

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UNICEF Launches #ChildrenFirstStoryBooks with Anne Curtis

We were in SM North - The Block earlier to witness the launch of UNICEF's Children First Story Books. It's a project very close to the heart of Anne Curtis, one of UNICEF's Child Ambassador. The proceeds of the sales of these books will actually go to their fund and in turn help a lot of kids form the habit of reading which is crucial for today's generation to succeed. I'm a voracious reader, so this also hits close to home. I wouldn't want my kids to just spend all day in front of the TV, tablets or computers alone (hypothetically having kids I mean) so it would be a good thing for them to have something tangible every once in a while. I remember having these kinds of books in the past that taught kids not just to read, but learn a thing or two about good manners, courage, the concept of beauty, and the good values Filipinos should never lose.

Aside from Filipino children benefiting from reading, UNICEF takes care of the rights of the child. So if you're going to get the set, you're also helping them in efforts to eradicate poverty, educate more kids, and protect the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights that every child should have. Anne also adds that the books would also entail the kids to have a sense of imagination, and could learn a thing or two about life lessons. She also believes that kids should have emotional and moral support that they need in order to grow. They can also learn to express themselves better if they get the confidence they need (as she talks about her book Anita the Duckling Diva).

UNICEF will also have the illustrations on all these books displayed on SM The Block's 3rd level until the 25th of February. Some of the patrons also had the opportunity to have their books signed by the authors and illustrators earlier. You can visit www.unicef.ph to know more on how you can help and get these children's books too. It only costs a mere Php 500 for 6 of them, plus you can also help their cause. That's a good deal right there.

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Alden Richards Named Boardwalk's YES Ambassador

It was nice to see this busy guy. He came from a whole day of taping, a bit tired and weary. He's hardworking that's why when he came out on stage, it didn't look like that at all. The attention and popularity he's gotten from the kalyeserye of course have made him a household name, even bigger than he expected. Now, Eat Bulaga has erased the competition in ratings, he's got tons of people adoring him and perhaps a love life looming in the horizon. I don't know anyone who doesn't love #AlDub these days and just like every person who has believed Alden Richards will have his time to shine, this one was almost blinding! Yes, this was one of the reasons why he was so thankful when we talked to him during that evening at the Music Museum when he was revealed as the face for YES, popular brand Boardwalk's Young Emerging Sociopreneurs.

To say that the crowd went wild is but an understatement, they went ballistic when Alden went near the edge of the stage. Hugs and kisses, I've heard of stories but I heard them on the mic during that evening. I'm glad Alden didn't get hurt but imagine how it would have been if he was outside on the streets, people probably would go equally crazy as well. Alden Richards wanted to entertain the crowd so he sang one number and we got that on video. Aside from that, he said a few words to the students and young entrepreneurs. He also said thanks to the Boardwalk family for believing in him back then when he was just starting and he also mentioned that the company isn't just a sponsor, but he felt they were like family. Boardwalk also believes in making the Filipino be a part of their dream and they had several awardees, outstanding leaders on stage to say their piece so the attendees would get pointers, get inspired of what hard work can do.

Alden even made that cute little gesture he does called "Pabebe Wave" and the response from people was just ecstatic. Here's the interview we did with Alden on video.

Watch Alden sing and serenade the crowd, how deep is your love?



Check out how Alden Richards feel as a new Twitter Millionaire.

Anthony Pangilinan also had a talk and inspired so many young individuals that evening. Boardwalk has been making these guys and gals be marketing geniuses this early, I'm sure they'll be extremely successful sociopreneurs as they become catalysts in economic stability in the country, add to that the social impact they'll have in their own schools and communities. Alden Richards must be really proud to be part of the Boardwalk family. He's blessed because he's definitely worked hard for it. I hope his story also becomes an inspiration to those who would want to be successful in their chosen fields. AlDub all the way!

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Jackie Rice Spends Meaningful Birthday At Philippine Orthopedic Center

Hi guys! It's been a while since our last event with GMA and this time we're covering a very special one because it's the birthday of Ms. Jackie Rice, one of GMA's most gorgeous women. I dare to say that because I've seen her in the flesh that afternoon and aside from the fact that she is physically gorgeous -  she's got a heart of an angel too. As seen above we had the funny Tess Bomb hosting this gig because the last thing that they probably want to hear is something sad during that occasion. We are in the Children's Ward of the Philippine Orthopedic Center. Honestly, it wasn't the nicest place in the world if you see the condition of the kids, but the thing we're doing here means a lot to Jackie as she had been in an accident a few years ago. Aside from that, she personally feels that she had to help these people because I've seen how they've been in this public hospital.

She went in and said hi to everyone. She has been going to other parts of the hospital and personally talking to some of the patients. Most of the admitted ones in the hospital are charity cases and don't pay a single cent because of their current economic conditions. They check the patients background to see if they are -  and most of them are also in serious state. I've never seen so many slings and screws inserted in people's bodies in my entire life. It was my first time there so forgive me, I was a little shocked to see that. I wasn't giving them any clues though because I know this is a good cause.

 The hospital's chaplain explained how the patients need people to care for them, some of them even have cases like bone cancer of which they need to travel from the far flung provinces just to get care in this public hospital. I've seen the room and it was a little cramped. Some of the beds even had two patients in them which I was so worried about. It was quite disheartening to see them but it was a good thing Jackie Rice and everyone else was there to at least let them feel that people do care.

Tess Bomb was cracking jokes and that was the thing we needed that afternoon. I appreciated what she did for the kids and the relatives there because she kept them on their feet laughing crazily at her antics. I think more than the fun, they both brought them hope that they can get over this place and go back to their homes and be as productive as normal people too. 

Jackie Rice was quite contented about her career. She's got regular shows and even a soap in the afternoon. She's part of Bubble Gang and also Inamorata. She's got dreams but was quite confident that she'll achieve success soon. She's not in a hurry nor is she not contented. She's thankful for the blessings that GMA has given her in the past years. As for getting married, she doesn't see that in the near future. I think I've seen her boyfriend on the sidelines when this event was happening. They look good but I'm sure that guy isn't in show business. Thanks to Petrol, Sweet Escape Cupcakes, Fernando's Bakeshop, Nail Files, Footworks and LeonPhilippe Dairy Fresh Milk who gave them what they need for strong bones. Perfect fit no? :)

You know what, this trip was all worth it. This is the reason why I love going with GMA Kapuso stars during charity events. When you see them approach the needy, their face lights up seeing stars like Jackie Rice lend a helping hand. I can't see why other stars shouldn't do this, after all they did help them reach where they are. Jackie Rice was humbled to have been able to help in her own little way and said if there was an opportunity to do this again, she'll say yes in a heartbeat. She's got a gorgeous face and body, but more than that... she's got a good heart. The hospital chaplain even said that she's been visiting this place a few times already and wanted to talk to each and every patient she can in her limited time. You've spent your birthday celebration with these patients Jackie, that alone is insurmountable and selfless of you. Happy birthday and hope you make more people happy!

Oh before I forget, she's still in the works of a new project. I hope they get to pair her with Dion Ignacio. He's a good guy I know. You would really look good together on screen and I hope GMA Artist Center makes this happen! :)

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