SM Foundation and Fast Retailing Foundation join hands to protect coastal villages

SM Foundation and Fast Retailing Foundation join hands to protect coastal villages

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Mario Flores Canilao thought his world was about to end when Typhoon Glenda (International: Rammasun) struck his village in the province of Pampanga in July 2014 and ravaged a fishing pond where he derived his primary source of livelihood.

“Yun ang pinakamalupit. Akala ko nga natapos na ang mundo sa akin noon (I thought life was too harsh. I thought that was the end of my world),” Mr. Canilao, a fisherman by trade, recalled.

Despite the blow he was dealt, he mustered the will and determination to move forward. Soon, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources enlisted his help to plant Bakawan or mangrove trees.

As the president of the Samahang Makakalikasan ng Pampanga, Inc. (SAMAPA), Mr. Canilao has been working tirelessly with the government and the private sector in the last decade to help build a coastal forest for the natural protection of their community in the municipality of Macabebe, to avoid pitfalls in the wake of another storm like Typhoon Glenda.

This year, he is delighted to know that SM Foundation, the social good arm of SM and Fast Retailing Foundation, a general incorporated foundation in Japan, is providing extensive support by planting Bakawan trees in his coastal community under their joint 'Grow Trees Community' project. This reforestation initiative is set to introduce at least 100,000 mangrove trees of the Bakawan babae and lalaki species in Barangay Consuelo in the municipality of Macabebe, the second site after the project formally launched in Batangas last September 27.

“Malaking tulong itong mangroves para sa akin, para sa pamilya ko at sa aking mga kababaryo na magkaroon din po ng hanapbuhay. Sa darating na mga henerasyon, makakatulong ang mga bakawan sa dipensa sa malalakas na alon at hangin (Mangroves are a huge help not just to my family but to my fellow villagers, also in supporting livelihood. The bakawan will help the next generation gain protection against strong winds and waves),” Mr. Canilao said.

Aside from providing a natural coastal defense against storm surges, the Bakawan has been widely personified in Filipino fiction and many children's books for its role in nurturing environmental biodiversity.

"As visitors, we often see the beauty of the mangrove thickets, but for communities, this is nature's shield that protects them from natural calamities and serves as breeding grounds for fishes and shellfishes," Cristie S. Angeles, SM Foundation Assistant Vice President for Livelihood and Outreach Programs said.

"A well-preserved mangrove forest can provide an ecosystem of interconnected benefits promoting biodiversity in marine life and a reserve of valuable resources. Beyond this, the community's collective efforts are vital to preserving the environment. As SM enables the growth of so many communities, we are also enabling these communities to lead the preservation of the environment in their areas," Ms. Angeles added.

"We are particularly drawn to this project which is a first in terms of our partnerships here in the country. Mangrove trees have an enormous capacity to absorb greenhouse gases, making them ideal for bringing about climate benefits and enriching biodiversity. After confirming this Pampanga project's success, we look forward to pursuing more of these types of projects soon in collaboration with our partner, SM Foundation," Mr. Yoshio Ishida, Secretary-General of FR Foundation," said.

As part of their community engagement strategy and to sustain the project, the proponents are tapping the expertise of the community and partner agencies in monitoring the propagules to ensure their growth as mature trees.

"What's good about this project is it goes beyond enriching the environment. We have an opportunity here to boost livelihood in the community while, at the same time, helping improve the disaster risk reduction capabilities of the locality," Ms. Angeles said.

The project's full impact will all go to the community as they look after the trees moving forward.

“Maraming benepisyo gaya ng sa air pollution na humihigop at nagbubuga yan ng mga magagandang hangin. Malaking bagay po ang bakawan sa pamumuhay ng mga taga barangay (Mangroves have many benefits like producing cleaner air while reducing air pollution. The bakawan is a big help to the livelihood of community),” Mr. Canilao said.

Apart from the two foundations, the Grow Trees Community initiative harnesses partnerships with SM Supermalls, various government agencies, and volunteers from the chosen provinces. These include the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Agriculture, DA-BFAR (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Philippine National Police, the local government of Macabebe and Peoples' Organizations (POs) such as SAMAPA.

The Grow Trees Community supports the SM Green Movement, which aims to improve communities' quality of life through sustainable solutions to promote a green planet, green living, and a green culture.

FR Foundation promotes research designed to help make the world better, spurring technological development, nurturing human resources, and supporting socially vulnerable individuals or groups.

It is part of Fast Retailing Co. Ltd., the leading Japanese retail company that owns the well-loved casual wear brand Uniqlo.

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Active Style with Surplus

Active Style with Surplus

The pandemic has made us more aware of the importance of health and wellness. And part of maintaining a good and healthy lifestyle is committing to exercise and staying active.

Whether you’re into lifting weights, attending yoga or pilates classes, cycling, or running outside, Surplus has everything you need to help keep you fit and fab at the same time.

Calm your mind with yoga and pilates, which are best with snug fit sports bra paired with lightweight and breathable leggings for a good range of motion. You can also bring Surplus yoga mats into your classes.

Boost your energy by lifting weights or cardio training with sweat-wicking tees, athletic jackets, gym shorts, or sweatpants. If you're into cycling – indoor or outdoor - matching cycling outfits bring more style into your routine.

The Surplus active collection and other versatile fashionable pieces are available in Surplus stores located in most SM Supermalls nationwide.

For a more convenient shopping experience, you may check out Surplus at Lazada, SM Malls Online, and ShopSM. Surplus Order to Deliver is also now available; join their Viber community and follow them on Facebook and Instagram @SurplusPH and @Surplus_ph for more details.

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New AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning 45g in paper packaging!

New AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning 45g in paper packaging!

Thursday, October 13, 2022

Prepare delicious meals sustainably with AJI-NO-MOTO®!

Seasoning products are essential for making tasty food. AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning is wellwell loved by millions of Filipino households and has been a kitchen staple through the years, providing delicious meals with just a simple Tak Tak Tak.

As a solution-providing company doing its part in shaping a more sustainable future, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC Group) is proud to launch a new milestone – the iconic AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning 45g, seasoning in paper packaging.

This shift to paper packaging provides consumers with an alternative to plastic. AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning 45g’s paper packaging is made from a natural and renewable paper material that can be planted, grown, harvested, and replanted. The paper that the APC Group uses is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), a leader in sustainable forestry.

“We, at Ajinomoto, hope that the new paper packaging inspires homemakers and consumers to make everyday lifestyle choices that they and future generations can be proud of. We invite everyone to join us in our journey of taking small steps for sustainability because we believe that working together creates a big difference,” says APC Group Chief Sustainability Officer Ernesto Carlos.

Creating a greener future

The new paper packaging is part of APC Group's roadmap of providing solutions that help address social issues such as environmental sustainability. Its Ajinomoto Global Sustainability Goal has two targets by 2030: to extend the healthy life expectancy of one billion people and reduce its environmental impact by 50%.

APC Group has a comprehensive sustainability program that includes sustainable procurement of raw and packaging materials, plastic waste reduction - ensuring none are leaked out to landfills, reduction of food loss and waste through improving operation efficiencies and converting edible waste to feeds or fertilizer, and reduction of greenhouse gas emission by using solar power energy in the factory.

The launch of AJI-NO-MOTO® 45g paper package is a tangible effort of Ajinomoto’s commitment to zero plastic waste by 2030.

Empowering lifestyle change

AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning brand ambassador Iya Villania – Arellano shared her view as consumer advocating responsible earth-friendly consumption, “We cannot go through a single day without having an impact to the environment. I am glad that other than making delicious and healthy food for my family, I am also contributing to reducing plastic waste with the new AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning in paper packaging. Let’s be part of the solution by being a responsible consumer. One small step at a time can make a big difference.”

“Using seasoning that is both healthy for the family and the planet helps shape a greener future for generations to come. This is part of the APC Group’s ‘Eat Well, Live Well’ promise, which believes that meaningful and thoughtful initiatives can impact the health and well-being of Filipino families,” ends APC General Manager for Public Relations Roann Co.

For more information about the APC Group’s sustainability initiatives, visit ajinomoto.com.ph. The new paper-packaged AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning 45g is available in the nearest stores and official online shops of APC Group.

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PHILUSA Corporation unveils Katuwang ng Tahanang Pilipino on its 65th year supporting Pinoy families

PHILUSA Corporation unveils Katuwang ng Tahanang Pilipino on its 65th year supporting Pinoy families

In celebration of its 65th anniversary, trusted Filipino household company PHILUSA Corporation continues its commitment to making meaningful, healthy, and sustainable lifestyle more attainable for Filipino families through “Katuwang ng Tahanang Pilipino” campaign.

PHILUSA Corporation is a leading Filipino-owned company that is known for marketing and distributing fast-moving consumer goods and pharmaceutical products through their iconic Filipino brands like RHEA, Babyflo, Cleene, MEDIPLAST, Albatross, Apollo, and more.

Dedicated to being a part of every Filipino household, PHILUSA Corporation marks its 65th year by championing hygiene, health, sustainability, and giving back to the communities. The leading company commenced the anniversary campaign by supporting Luwalhati ng Maynila, a home for the aged in Marikina City. Led by the PHILUSA Family Council (PHILFACO), the initiative benefitted over 400 seniors in the institution, receiving kitchen equipment and supplies, household products, hygiene kits, medical kits, and more.

“PHILUSA Corporation strives to inspire volunteerism in others by creating a meaningful impact in the community. Our company has helped different sectors over the years through social development efforts and relief assistance, and PHILUSA continues with its commitment of touching the lives of Filipino families through these initiatives,” said PHILUSA President and General Manager Neogin Evangelista.

Through the “Katuwang ng Tahanang Pilipino” campaign, PHILUSA Corporation continues to uphold its core values of putting its customers’ needs first, achieving timely and quality results through innovation and continuous improvement, and doing everything with integrity through its initiatives in helping others.

The initiative strives to maintain the trust of Filipinos, featuring its three main pillars – Katuwang sa Kalinisan highlights the brand’s efforts to promote the importance of hygiene; Katuwang sa Kalikasan, on the other hand, showcases its commitment to sustainability; and, lastly, Katuwang sa Kalusugan advocates overall wellness in every household.

“We’ve always envisioned PHILUSA Corporation as every Filipino’s household partner, which is why we are very excited to announce our Katuwang ng Tahanang Pilipino campaign. This campaign is really a celebration of PHILUSA Corporation’s 65th year championing health, wellness and environmental sustainability to Filipinos everywhere not only through our products and brands, but also through our initiatives,” shared Mr. Evangelista.

The Katuwang ng Tahanang Pilipino campaign will be a continuation of PHILUSA Corporation’s efforts to pay it forward by releasing relevant content on its sustainability and hygiene-related initiatives, as well as outreach programs to promote and raise awareness about their advocacies of health, hygiene, and environmental sustainability.

To learn more about PHILUSA Corporation and their different brands and initiatives, visit their website at https://philusa.com.ph or visit their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PhilusaCorporation/.

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The Mind Museum Dino Play is back at Estancia Mall

The Mind Museum Dino Play is back at Estancia Mall

Adventure back in time with The Mind Museum’s Dino Play at Estancia Mall, Capitol Commons, Pasig City on the G/F East Wing from October 14-27, 2022! Entrance is FREE daily, and slots are limited per hour starting 11AM to 6:30PM.

For easier entry, download the Ortigas Malls app and register for the Ortigas Community Card through this link: https://linktr.ee/enjoyeveryday. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Visit the Estancia at Capitol Commons Facebook page for more details!

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Make your home cost-efficient with Samsung AirSolutions

Make your home cost-efficient with Samsung AirSolutions

Indoor air quality has become more critical than ever to reduce sneezing and avoid other severe respiratory problems. In addition, particles, allergens, vehicle gasses, and viruses are more common outdoors. As a result, people are starting to lessen their exposure to air pollution by using quality air filters inside their homes.

However, as energy rates continue to go up, so are the rest of the household bills and prices of necessities. The upward bill adjustments make it difficult for families to budget, and all are thinking of ways to reduce the charges.

So how can someone save and continue using air purifiers simultaneously?

Samsung believes that a cost-efficient and healthy home is the future dream home. With Samsung AirSolutions, energy-saving appliances such as Samsung's Air Purifier and WindFree Inverter are immediate solutions to address this challenge.

Enjoy fresh air the smart way

Samsung's 60sqm Air Purifier is compact yet powerful with its 3-way Air Flow system, which intuitively monitors, deodorizes, and filters air quality in any living space. This multi-layered purification system extracts large dust particles like pollen, filters harmful gasses with Activated Carbon Deodorization Filter, and even captures over 99% of ultrafine dust with its High-efficiency Particulate Absorbing (HEPA) Filtration feature.

It also sports Air Quality, Gas Purity, and Fine Dust Concentration Indicators that show air quality and specify air levels from good to bad. So users are visibly aware and can instantly determine how pure the air is.

Samsung's Air Purifier can be controlled remotely through smartphones via SmartThings app for users to monitor the pollution level in rooms and turn it off anytime, anywhere they wish. It also has an Auto Mode that senses air quality levels and adjusts the power to your needs to reduce the energy used. Aside from that, it has a Filter Replacement Alarm that blinks when the filter already needs replacing and a Child Lock feature that prevents accidental settings changes.

Samsung's 60sqm Air Purifier starts at Php 28,995.

Stay comfortably cool and worry-free from overcharges

Samsung 2.5HP WindFree Inverter cools the air with its highly-energy efficient WindFree™ Cooling system that optimizes energy use and reduces electric consumption by 77% when operating in WinFree mode versus the usual Fast Cooling mode of air conditioning units. It also has ECO mode, which uses less compressor capacity.

This Samsung Inverter is powered with Digital Inverter Boost technology, neodymium magnets, and Twin Tube Muffler that helps maintain the desired temperature in living spaces efficiently and quietly. This technology is designed to cool spaces faster and farther by 43%, reaching up to 15 meters.

Samsung 2.5HP WindFree Inverter has a WindFree Good Sleep mode that intelligently creates the ideal temperature for sleeping and lessens unpleasant cold air flow. Hence, homeowners and families sleep much better throughout the night.

Maintenance is also easier as the unit cleans itself automatically through the 3-step Auto Clean feature. This dries the heat exchange of the air conditioner unit and removes moisture by blowing air for 10-30 minutes to prevent bacteria and odor build-up.

Samsung 2.5HP WindFree Inverter starts at Php 56,495.

The 60sqm Air Purifier and 2.5HP WindFree Inverter are one of the most versatile air solutions products of Samsung to date. With air-purifying and WindFree technology, families can now enjoy cool and dust-free households — an innovative answer to energy costs and health concerns.

The Samsung 60sqm Air Purifier and 2.5HP Windfree Inverter have a 5-star CSPF (Cooling Season Performance Factor) Rating from the Department of Energy (DOKeep your air clean and pockets full

E). This means that all Samsung air-conditioning units are energy-efficient and consumer-friendly. Always look for the CSPF 5-star label when you buy your Samsung AC units to enjoy the benefits of reduced power consumption and saving more energy.

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To learn more about Samsung Appliances, including the WindFree Inverter Air Conditioner and Air Purifier, visit samsung.com/ph.

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Experience the unseen at SM Southmall’s The Blackout Zone

Experience the unseen at SM Southmall’s The Blackout Zone

First batch of participants trying out the Blackout Zone challenges.

SM Cares recently launched its first-ever immersive exhibit that aims to promote blind awareness, The Blackout Zone, as part of its goal of creating a welcoming and caring environment for persons with disabilities, including the blind and the visually impaired, in all of its developments. The launch was held last October 6 at SM Southmall in Las Pinas City.

 

“On October 13 we will be celebrating World Sight Day, which focuses on global attention on vision impairement, including blindness With SM Cares, and through your help, we want to create a different kind of exhibit called The Blackout Zone. Through this, we will be able to experience the daily challenges of our fellow Filipinos who are visually impaired. This will allow us to broaden our knowledge on how we can help create an inclusive environment for them,” said Engr. Bien C. Mateo, senior vice president of SM Supermalls and program director of SM Cares Committee on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

 

  

Members from various organizations were present during the event including Mr. Mateo Lee Jr., deputy director of the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA); Ar. Jaime Silva, chairperson of the Committee on Accessibility, United Architects of the Philippines (UAP); Ms. Aggie Angeles, country outreach coordinator of Benetech Bookshare and member of the Philippine Blind Union; Mr. Ronnel del Rio of the Chamber of Blind Masseurs; Mr. Art Letim of CBM Global and a former member of the Philippine Blind Union; and Ms. Mayette Regala from the Resources for the Blind, Inc. 

The Blackout Zone is open until October 16, except October 10, at the 3^rd level of SM Southmall for free. Inside the Blackout Zone, participants take on different challenges in total darkness that unleash the power of their senses like tying a shoe, creating a sandwich, making their own coffee, and watching movies.

The goal of the exhibit is for the general public to develop a sense of care and affection for the blind, whether it is a loved one, a colleague, or a stranger; and to realize that in the world of the blind, things are possible.

The Blackout Zone is just one of the many ways SM Cares is supporting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, particularly "SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities."

 

Other initiatives in line with this include the annual Angels Walk in partnership with ASP, held every January in celebration of National Autism Consciousness Week; the annual Happy Walk in partnership with DSAPI, held every February in celebration of National Down Syndrome Consciousness Month; the annual Sensitivity Training for Customers with Different Needs, which educates mall staff and security personnel on how to care for PWDs; and the annual Emergency Preparedness Forum which educates PWDs and senior citizens on what to do during emergencies. 

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, supporting initiatives focused on communities and the environment. Aside from the program on PWDs, its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

 To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

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MILO® Philippines partners with moms in energizing kids back to school

MILO® Philippines partners with moms in energizing kids back to school

Monday, October 10, 2022

As the new school year begins and millions of kids are now eagerly getting ready to go back, excited to see their classmates and teachers again, breakfast champion MILO® Philippines is on a nationwide tour to remind moms and kids about the importance of needing nutritious, energetic start every day. This has been especially challenging for students have been forced to adapt to online learning just a couple of years ago.

As families start adjusting again for face-to-face classes this year, MILO® Champions are going across the country through the “Back to School, Back to Sports” program, visiting different barangays to help jumpstart their mornings with nutritious energy. In partnership with the LGUs, with the support of sports offices, volunteers from CSOs, and DepEd, each trip is designed for kids to learn more about different sports and teach them how to have an active lifestyle after being mostly at home for the past two years.

Trusted health experts have also tagged along to give moms free nutrition training and teach them how to prepare a nutritious breakfast for their kids so that they can stay energized when they go to school and when come back home.

"It is crucial that parents continue to make sure their children consume a balanced diet. A healthy breakfast gives kids the energy they need to fuel their daily activities and start the day off right. According to research, it can boost children's cognitive abilities, such as their memory, alertness, focus, and problem-solving skills, and help them perform better in reading, math, and science tests,” said Ann Cayetano, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.

Most recently, karateka and SEA Games gold medalist Jamie Lim guested in the South Luzon leg where she introduced basic karate movements to over a hundred kids. “Being active in sports at a young age taught me many life lessons that helped me excel in and outside the classroom like the value of girt or pagpupursige. It’s been such an amazing experience to be here with our next generation of Champions, helping kickstart their school year on an energetic note and showing the possibilities that sports can offer them as they go back to face-to-face classes,” said Lim.

Marathon runner Rio de la Cruz also joined to teach them the importance of doing regular physical activities. He also explained how staying energized and daily exercise can help them do better in school.

“The physical benefits of being active and the valuable lessons it teaches goes a long way in helping our kids show grit, or to be pagpupursige. As a young student athlete, drinking MILO after my early morning training sessions helped give me the nutritious energy I needed to fulfill my academic and athletic responsibilities. Now, as a parent, I’m proud to work again with MILO® in giving my fellow moms and dads the tools they need to continue their kid’s Champion journey during the new school year,” said Coach Rio.

Committed to guiding kids on their Champion journey, MILO® Philippines also continues to recognize the important role that both moms and dads will forever play in ensuring kids success in and beyond the classroom. Integral in that effort are partnerships with experts in nutrition who can equip parents with the tools and information they need to continue keeping their kids energized at school and when they go back home.

“Together with our partners, we are excited to welcome kids back to school and re-introduce them to sports. For some, it’s been years since they’ve had a chance to go outside and engage in physical activites. Through this program, we hope to help kids start living an active lifestyle because, when paired with the nutritious energy of MILO, it adds to their holistic development,” said Sam Ching, Assistant Brand Manager, MILO® Philippines.

Be on the look out as your barangay could be the next stop in the MILO® Philippines “Back To School, Back To Sports” takover. Visit the official MILO® Philippines website to know more about MILO® sports programs and stay updated with all the latest news and announcements.

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REP gives CAROUSEL a radical post-modern contemporary spin

REP gives CAROUSEL a radical post-modern contemporary spin

Director Toff de Venecia shares bold, brave—and a 21st century—vision for the best musical of the 20th century

Repertory Philippines (REP) is taking on the challenge of presenting CAROUSEL, the best musical of the 20th century, to present-day theater crowd as it opens on November 26, 2022 at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez within the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) complex. With a radical vision by first-time REP director Toff De Venecia, this reimagination of the beloved Broadway musical underscores the transcendent power of hope and love.

Created by the legendary team of Richard Rodgers (Music) and Oscar Hammerstein II (Book and Lyrics) that together redefined musical theater and ushered Broadway's golden age, CAROUSEL collected accolades from critics and praises from audiences after its original opening in 1945. This production won the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award for Best Musical, and was ultimately hailed by Time Magazine as the greatest musical of the 20th century. Its subsequent revivals also won Tony, Olivier, and Drama Desk Awards, a testament to this R&H classic’s timeless and universal appeal.

CAROUSEL follows the story of Billy Bigelow, a swaggering and carefree carnival barker, who falls in love with and marries Julie Jordan, a sweet yet naïve millworker. After learning Julie is pregnant, a desperate Billy is forced to participate in a robbery that ends in a tragedy. He is then given a second chance to make things right. A moving tale of redemption, CAROUSEL features some of musical theater classics like If I Loved You, June is Bustin’ Out All Over, and You’ll Never Walk Alone.

REP’s comeback production will be led by sought-after theater leading man Gian Magdangal and singer, actor, and OPM royalty Karylle Tatlonghari who are both joining a REP production for the first time. Joining the two leads are REP stalwarts Loy Martinez and Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante.

“It is with great pride that Repertory Philippines is making its return to live theater with a production that is both renowned and beloved. We are all thrilled with how Toff has executed his bold, brave vision of CAROUSEL for the current generation of theatergoers,” says Mindy Perez Rubio, REP president and CEO. “Together with a superb cast, including our wonderful female lead Karylle, whom we are also working with for the first time, I think CAROUSEL will prove to be a fitting and triumphant return to the stage for Repertory Philippines.”

The show was set to be the crown jewel of the REP 2020 theatrical season with the same director at the helm, but like all theater productions worldwide, CAROUSEL was postponed. For De Venecia, the pause was a welcome opportunity for introspection that has further helped with the eminent theater company’s transition to more progressive, dynamic, and culturally relevant narratives, with the guidance of Artistic Director Liesl Batucan-Del Rosario.

“I am in a liminal state - navigating the romanticism of the best musical of the 20th century and the landmines in the text, reading it from a contemporary 21st century perspective. We had a radical proposition during the 2020 staging, and possibly even a more radical proposition now which we're excited to explore further in rehearsals,” the director says.

“What did our colleagues go through and experience in their own individual lives in the last two and a half years, and also communally with their families, friends, and the entire community that's just coming together again after being separated for so long. A lot of that will find its way into the show we're preparing for in November.”

As the production now moves at full speed, the director emphasized that they are navigating new frontiers of theater and exploring the ways they can seamlessly push this Broadway masterpiece into post-pandemic realities and contexts.

“While this R&H musical is closest to an opera which necessitates its own grandiosity as told through elaborate mise-en-scène or even how the music is orchestrated or how the songs are sung, we push against this idea and explore new ways forward in this post-modern contemporary CAROUSEL that the team is working on,” De Venecia elaborates. “It's an alchemy of limitations that gives rise to contemporary possibilities.”

Witness REP’s highly anticipated return to live theater with no less than a bold, brave vision for one of Broadway’s glorious masterpieces. Catch CAROUSEL starting November 26 until December 18 at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez.

Tickets will be available through the CCP Box Office, TicketWorld, and SM Tickets. Ticket prices are ₱3,000 for Rows 1 and 2, ₱2,500 for Row 3, ₱2,000 for Row 4, ₱1,500 for Row 5, and ₱1,000 for Row 6.

For updates, log on to www.repertoryphilippines.ph, like and follow Repertory Philippines on Facebook and Instagram. Educators and school representatives who are interested in the show can email sales@repphil.org.

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Power lies in the plate

Power lies in the plate

Sekaya and endurance athlete and coach Ige Lopez share how good nutrition affects athletic performance

Athletes are considered as the prime examples of peak health. They are more than fit, some even showcasing extraordinary strength, endurance, and speed that can go beyond human expectations. But even the fittest athlete may be facing a health concern or two. Most common of which are nutrient deficiencies, as physically active people require more nourishment to support their high-intensity activities.

Sekaya, the Filipino plant-based brand under Synnovate, the natural products division of UNILAB, and endurance athlete and coach Ige Lopez tackle the close connection between athletic performance and nutrition. Good nutrition plays an essential role in an athlete’s overall health and even in the prevention of injuries and illnesses. It’s a core foundation that helps improve any sport player’s performance.

“It’s important for athletes to consult nutritionists so they would have an idea on what to eat before a workout, during a workout, and after a workout to make sure they have enough of the nutrients they need to sustain their training and prevent deficiencies,” Coach Ige says. “Pre-workout meals provide fuel for hard or long workouts. What they eat during training is crucial in sustaining their energy. Post-workout meals are also a must as these help with recovery.”

Apart from macros like protein, carbohydrates, and fats, some of the nutrients that athletes need to meet the physical demands of their sports include the following:

Iron, a common nutrient deficiency among female athletes because of their monthly period, is essential in carrying oxygen to the muscles. Iron deficiency can cause fatigue and affect performance. Potassium is a type of electrolyte that plays a critical role in hydration, which is important for athletes who sweat a lot during training and competitions. Having potassium deficiency can reduce energy and endurance. It can lead to muscle weakness, cramping, and rapid heart rate.

Magnesium is a mineral that can help muscles relax after working out. Strenuous activities raise magnesium needs by 10-20%, studies have shown. It’s also significant in maintaining bone health. Zinc is most known for supporting the immune system. This is especially crucial for athletes who may miss training or may be asked to sit out if they have a viral infection or illness. It’s also a vital micronutrient in promoting wound healing.

To help athletes excel and get proper nutrition, Coach Ige suggests eating everything in moderation, sticking to three big and well-balanced meals a day, and fueling their body with real or whole foods.

“I would advise athletes to eat good carbs from dark leafy veggies and keeping their plates colorful. For snacks, it would be nice to have a combination of fats, carbs, and proteins. Sourdough with olive oil and romaine lettuce and cheese would be a good example. Adding a piece of meat would also help,” he recommends.

For those who want something sweeter, they can go for plain yogurt, bananas, raisins, almonds, and chia seeds topped with honey. If they have injuries, Coach Ige says it’s best to have more protein sources like lean meat, fish, nuts, and ligaments or litid for collagen, as these will provide nutrients for healing. Those craving for snacks can grab some popcorn, veggie sticks, peanut butter, and fruits.

Coach Ige also proposes doing batch meal preps on weekends for athletes who don’t have the time to focus on their meals during weekdays. He adds that they can also whip up easy salads by keeping healthy ingredients like romaine lettuce, cucumber, bell pepper, carrots, tomatoes, onions, and garlic on hand with apple cider vinegar and extra virgin olive oil for making a healthy dressing.

When needed, they can turn to supplements like those offered by Sekaya. The brand offers a roster of high-quality

plant-based products that can support an athlete’s health goals and daily wellness. Each product is carefully created in a way that’s easy to include in their daily routine. The carefully curated Sekaya Raw Actives, a line up of nutrient-dense, ready-to-mix superfood powders, can support our daily nutrition requirements and fitness goals. Simply mix with water or any favorite drink, or sprinkle it over dishes. Sekaya Pea Protein is a favorite among athletes as it provides 18g of clean, plant-based protein in every scoop. It is also very easy to integrate into recipes such as pancakes and overnight oats for a healthy power breakfast as well as post-workout smoothies.

Athletes and active people push their bodies to their limits, so it’s crucial for them to be mindful of how they fuel their bodies. They should have a variety of whole foods that can give them enough vitamins and nutrients for better health, performance, and recovery.

Sekaya is a Filipino plant-based brand that provides natural, science-backed products to support your health goals and daily wellness. Sekaya is under Synnovate, the natural products division of UNILAB. Learn more about how you can benefit from Sekaya’s plant-based solutions, and get health tips and information at https://www.sekaya.com.ph/ and by following @sekayaph on Facebook and Instagram. Sekaya products are available in Watsons, AllGreen, and in the Synnovate Official Stores in Lazada and Shopee.

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