Grassroots esports teams play to help feed the hungry, break stigma on mental health

Grassroots esports teams play to help feed the hungry, break stigma on mental health

Sunday, February 26, 2023

Who would have thought that a mobile game tournament could be an opportunity to change lives?

 

For GameLab and Redlist, winning the recent GIGA Arena Street League, an esports tournament powered by Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) allowed them not only to showcase their skills in Mobile Legends, but also to extend help to those in need.

 

“Even if we are just playing, we are still able to help different communities who need our support. This event also opened a lot of doors for us and enabled us to enter the professional scene in Mobile Legends,” said Mark Ferry “Dokmen” Nazar, captain of GameLab.

 

GameLab was able to donate 325 kilos of sustainably grown rice worth P20,000 to Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAH). The rice is sourced from rice growers in Santa Cruz Occidental, Mindoro supported by Smart’s ‘Buy Local’ program, who are practicing climate-smart and eco-friendly farming system.

 

RAH and Smart have been partners since December of last year through the “Rice Together!” program to help feed over 19,000 families in Manila, Pasig, and Laguna.

 

“Everybody has a role to play in addressing hunger. It is very heartwarming to know that the youth are also getting involved, because we are normally supported by big corporations. This donation will go a long way to feed many families,” said Jomar Fleras, Executive Director, Rise Against Hunger Philippines.

 

Third placer Redlist chose the Youth for Mental Health Coalition, a group of youth advocates that work to elevate the Filipino youth’s consciousness on mental health and end the stigma on mental illness, as their beneficiary. “Mental health is a very important part of our life. Because of the pandemic, this has become one of the biggest issues among the youth,” said Elmer Christian Dela Merced, team captain of Redlist. 

Redlist was able to donate seven (7) Smart Bro Pocket Wifi devices worth P10,000 with P1,000 worth of load cards that can be used by the organization to conduct trainings and activities for the youth.

 

“We would like to thank Redlist and Smart for this very generous gift. This will help us achieve our mission to raise the consciousness on mental wellness and end the stigma. Paulit-ulit naming sinasabi na ang kalusugang pangkaisipan ay isang kritikal na public health issue, hindi ito nabibigyan ng pansin. Wala mang pisikal na anyo, kinakailangan nating pangalagaan ang ating mental health dahil ito ay apektado at nakakaapekto sa ating pangkalahatang wellness,” said Ms Benica Ventilacion, Vice Chairperson for Finance and Legal Support, Youth for Mental Health Coalition. [We have always reiterated that mental health is a critical public health issue, and it does not get much attention. Even if it is not tangible, we need to take care of our mental health because it can affect our overall wellness.]

 

Empowering the Filipino youth

Following their win in the Street League tournament, GameLab shared that they have qualified in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Development League (MDL), the second official league in the Philippines by Moonton. They are also part of the pool for SIBOL, the national team for esports, who might represent the Philippines in the upcoming Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia this year.

 

“This just shows that events like these go beyond connectivity and the network already. It is about empowering the youth, giving them opportunities to help them support their advocacies, and providing them a platform like GIGA Arena where they can showcase their talents to the world,” said Melvin Consunji Nubla, FVP and Group Head, Go-to-Market and Subscriber Management at Smart.

 

The Street League tournament held on Smart GIGA Arena (gigaarena.smart) is in line with Smart’s long-standing support for Philippine esports to cultivate the passion and talent of Filipino gamers. 

 

Gaming enthusiasts can continue to join local esports tournaments by logging in to GIGA Arena, the country’s first all-in-one esports platform for Filipino mobile gamers. The platform is open to all Smart and TNT customers and lets users match up with fellow players to compete in daily, weekly, and monthly tournaments for prestige and cash prizes. 

 

To continue enjoying the best gaming experiences powered by Smart, subscribers are encouraged to register their Smart and TNT SIM at http://www.smart.com/ph/simreg and receive 3GB free data upon successful registration. 

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For equal opportunities, we built a fashion school in the Philippines

For equal opportunities, we built a fashion school in the Philippines

This message from Ayumi Nishigawa, President, Non-Profit Organization DEAR ME, a social contribution through fashion.

 

On the 5th of this month, we opened the fashion school “coxco Lab”.

 

We are so happy to have the opening day with our wonderful students, teachers, colleagues and sponsors. Thank you to everyone who came to the opening ceremony and to all those who came from Japan to support us.

 

Fashion show activities with kids living in vulnerable communities in the Philippines started in 2015 when I was in 3rd year college. But the show alone won't change the lives of children or their futures. I've been aiming to establish a fashion school for about six years now, thinking that education and employment will be the key to helping them realize their dreams.

 

Four years ago, I quit my company for this challenge. It was a preparation period that I couldn't say it went well due to the Corona virus, but thanks to my friends and everyone who supported me, I finally was able to start.

 

The name of the school we opened is "coxco Lab". As a laboratory of the brand coxco which we currently operate, we have a vision where future school alumni can work with the brand.

 

The school is run by NPO, a non-profit organization, while the brand is LTD, limited. Creating a non-profit and profit chain will be the challenge ahead, and coxco will expand to the Philippines this year. Here's the real beginning. As always, I can't do anything alone so I'd appreciate your support! Thank you for your continued support.

 

And this time with the opening of the school, I've been closely connected to TV2 stations since last year! Please let me announce again if it goes on air.

 

About coxco Lab

 

Funded by Japan-based fashion brand coxco, the coxco Lab Fashion School, located in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, operates as a vocational training school in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

 

For the first year, a fashion craft course will be conducted focused on sustainable fashion . Additional courses will be about clothing design and pattern, and total beauty.

 

Ten men and women aged 16 years old and above will be accommodated by the coxco Fashion Lab free of charge. Classes will be conducted by vocational school teachers.

 

The aim is to contribute to the self-reliance and independence of students and communities by further conducting classes on Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs, financial literacy and reproductive health education.

 

Marketing of the Lab’s products made by its students will primarily be with the group brand coxco. Promotion and sales support from other sponsor companies and through crowd funding will be utilized for the overall objective of creating education and employment opportunities in the future.

 

Together, let us create equal opportunities in our society.

 

NPO DEAR ME and coxco current partner non-government organizations are KnK Philippines and CHILDHOPE Philippines. Sponsor companies are Yogibo LLC., YAGI&CO.,LTD, UMU Technology Japan and MARUCHO Inc.

 

Those who would like to partner with NPO DEAR ME and coxco, please contact: Moe Komura. General Manager for Philippines, NPO DEAR ME through email: info@npodearme.com. Visit their website https://npodearme.com/ and follow their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/dearme2015.

 

 

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Cyclists come together for the first Tour de McDo in Nuvali

Cyclists come together for the first Tour de McDo in Nuvali

Sunday, February 19, 2023

Tour de McDo is the QSR giant’s first-ever multiple-stage bike challenge to go Green and Good, reflecting the essence of the community where McDonald’s 700th store has taken root 

After the grand opening of McDonald’s Philippines’ 700th store in Nuvali, Santa. Rosa, Laguna—biking enthusiasts and customers alike flocked to one of the country’s premier biking destinations once again, this time for the 1st-ever Tour de McDo held last February 12. 

Tour de McDo is a multiple-stage bike challenge, showcasing how McDonald’s is going Green & Good with its latest Green and Good flagship stores in Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, Laguna and Delos Reyes, Tagaytay City. 

Close to 100 cyclists signed up for the free bike tour with two routes to choose from— the Nuvali Loop or the “Beginner Route,” which spans 17 kilometers within the area to and from the 700th Store, and the “Intermediate Ride” which spans 50 kilometers to and from McDonald’s Nuvali to McDonald’s Delos Reyes in Tagaytay. 

Tour de McDo kicked off with a Ceremonial Ride Out with McDonald’s Chief Happiness Officer Ronald McDonald. To make the inaugural ride more special, participants received special kits which include an exclusive Tour de McDo Dri Fit shirt, Tour de McDo limited-edition stickers, and a free McDonald’s breakfast meal. 

Both McDonald’s Nuvali and McDonald’s Delos Reyes Tagaytay have bike-friendly features that include a Bike & Dine facility and will soon include a Bike Repair Station to cater to the needs of cyclists that frequent the scenic bike routes in both areas 

“McDonald’s Philippines—together with our partners from Ayala Land - Nuvali— strengthen our commitment to the environment through our Green & Good initiative. Providing opportunities for our customers to take part in activities like Tour de McDo supports our advocacy of championing sustainable active mobility that results in lessening of emissions, creating a positive impact to communities we serve,” said Adi Hernandez, Corporate Relations Director for McDonald’s Philippines. 

McDonald’s Green & Good initiative is the company’s commitment to find sustainable and alternative solutions in their restaurants and operations to do better for the environment. A McDonald’s Green & Good and store is built using green building solutions like light gauge steel frames, run using utility-efficient solutions like solar rooftops and lampposts, grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, a rainwater harvesting tank, variable refrigerant flow (VRF) Aircon System, among others—McDonald’s is committed to doing better in helping preserve the earth.

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Experience Sweet Vibes at SM City Taytay, SM City East Ortigas and SM City Marikina

Experience Sweet Vibes at SM City Taytay, SM City East Ortigas and SM City Marikina

Tuesday, February 14, 2023

Celebrate all kinds of love this Valentine season as SM City Taytay, SM City East Ortigas and SM City Marikina give you Sweet Vibes. 

Surprise your friends with a sweet treat at the Sweet A-fair, pop-up booth that will cater to your sweet-tooth cravings or spoil your family to a fancy meal at restaurants offering sweet deals you can choose from.

Keep the fandom love alive and prepare to be swept away with sweet beats from your faves. Swift beats at SM City Taytay and SM City Marikina features songs from Taylor Swift while Daydreamer’s Playlist features songs from Adele while Tiktok artist Leyo also performs at SM City East Ortigas.

Capture these unforgettable moments of light and love with your significant other at the grammable Valentine installations. Don’t forget to take that purrfect selfie with your pets as a keepsake so you can be together fur-ever. 

Express your love language in every way with SM Supermalls.

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Power Mac Center treats music lovers to special Valentine’s Day deals

Power Mac Center treats music lovers to special Valentine’s Day deals

Also score exciting discounts on training and services

Looking for a special gift for your loved one this Valentine’s Day? Or a little something your music-loving heart has been wanting? Head on over to Power Mac Center stores and online to find “the one” you’re looking for.

The Apple Premium Reseller is holding a special Valentine’s Day promo, including up to P1,500 off on AirPods, 30% discount on AirPods premium cases, and up to 50% off on participating premium earphones from partner brands Defunc, Marley, Sudio, and Urbanista.

“Like love, music is a universal language. This month, Power Mac Center is celebrating Filipinos’ passion for music by extending big discounts on premium audio accessories that pair perfectly with your favorite Apple devices. Upgrade or make the switch to experience the best quality of sound, so you can sing your heart out whatever mood or situation you’re in,” said Joey Alvarez, Power Mac Center Director of Product Management and Marketing.

Get the AirPods (3rd gen) at P1,000 off when you pay via non-installment modes at any Power Mac Center or The Loop branch nationwide, or online via the Viber Store, Lazada, Shopee, and SM Malls Online app. Promo runs until February 19, 2023 only. Meanwhile, you can cop the AirPods (2nd gen) at P1,500 off in the same channels until February 28, 2023.

You can also snag 30% off on participating premium AirPods cases from Elago, Lab.C, and Laut when bought together with AirPods at any Power Mac Center, The Loop, and Mobile Care Service Centers nationwide and at powermaccenter.com until February 19, 2023.

Moreover, a wide selection of in-ear, wireless, and noise-cancelling earphones and earbuds in a variety of colors are slashed up to 50% off retail price. These are available via non-installment modes at all Power Mac Center, The Loop, and Mobile Care Service Centers nationwide, Web Store, and The Loop by Power Mac Center on Lazada and Shopee from February 11 to 19, 2023.

Valid non-installment payment methods include cash, straight credit card, debit card, bank transfer, check, GCash, GrabPay, WeChat, AliPay, Maya, Hello Money, UnionPay, BDO Pay, ShopeePay, QRPH, Power Mac Center eGift Certificate, Home Credit with interest, UpTrade trade-in value/voucher, BillEase, 1 Infinite Access points, and Power Mac Center Gift Certificate.

Two-for-one on training and services

Basecamp, Power Mac Center’s official training arm, is also joining the Valentine’s celebration. Customers can avail of any course at the regular price and bring a companion for FREE! That’s right, it’s two for the price of one, and you can choose from a wide range of creative and technical courses.

Select training courses are also discounted at 20% off. These include macOS Fundamentals, Technical Troubleshooting, Apple Device Support, Apple Deployment and Management, iOS/iPadOS Fundamentals and Troubleshooting, Mac and Windows Integration Basics, Pages, Numbers, and Keynote, and App Development with Swift. Sessions are conducted by Apple Certified Trainers every Monday to Fridays, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except for declared holidays.

These promos are available from February 11 to 19, 2023 only, but the training itself can be scheduled with a Basecamp authorized representative until March this year.

Meanwhile, Power Mac Center’s service arm, Mobile Care, is extending discounts on diagnosis and software fees if you bring with you someone who also needs a repair or software fix for their Apple device. The two devices are entitled to a discount of 14% from February 11 to 19, 2023.

Terms and conditions apply. Shop now at https://bit.ly/PMCValentinesDay2023. Find other ongoing promotions at Power Mac Center on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.

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Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines is awarded Top Employer for the 5th year in a row

Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines is awarded Top Employer for the 5th year in a row

 

Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines) Inc. is awarded Top Employer for the 5th year in a row.

Boehringer Ingelheim has been awarded for the third year in succession a “Global Top Employer” by the Top Employers Institute, one of the world’s 15 best employers. Regionally, it has been recognized as a Top Employer across ASEAN, Korea, Australia, and New Zealand (ASKAN). 

The certification highlights the company’s commitment to prioritizing mental health for employees, in addition to nurturing talents to instil a changemaker mindset. 

Boehringer Ingelheim’s employer offerings do particularly stand out in the dimensions of wellbeing, work environment, as well as rewards and recognition. The results reflect the company’s holistic employee healthcare and wellbeing approach that, beyond its emphasis on mental health, integrates concepts of physical, social, and financial health. Through dedicated programs and offers, its employees receive support that is relevant for them and their families. This includes a work environment of physical and emotional security, an inclusive way of working together creating a sense of belonging, mental health awareness initiatives and manager trainings, focus on work-life-balance, opportunities for volunteering, and competitive pay and benefits.

“We are honored to receive this recognition by the Top Employers Institute both globally and regionally. With over 2,800 employees from 24 different nationalities in our diverse region, this is a testament to our commitment to the well-being and growth of our employees. Boehringer Ingelheim is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace through our established leadership development initiatives and extensive talent development programmes that bring out the best in our people. In these changing times, we remain dedicated to our people and ensure that they remain engaged, empowered and appreciated,” said Armin Wiesler, Regional Managing Director and Head of Animal Health, ASKAN, Boehringer Ingelheim.

In the Philippines, Boehringer Ingelheim has won the award for five consecutive years running and is recognized by the Institute for its exemplary focus on talent development and employee engagement, specifically during the height of the pandemic. These were evident in the quick adaptation and implementation of Boehringer Ingelheim’s Future of Work concept in providing a more flexible working environment, championing employee initiatives under the ASKANCares program, and driving sustainability through the company’s ‘Sustainable Development - For Generations’ framework. 

Nurturing talent and instilling a growth mindset is driven throughout the organisations’ key employee programmes with the aim to support broader skill sets development and create a fulfilling work environment. Some of these programmes include the Regional Talent Move programme which aims to build agility and resilience by allowing employees to take on a stretch assignment in a different country for up to six months to work on a project or business problem, and the B-effect project that is run in partnership with Ashoka, an international network focused on social entrepreneurship and teaches employees to create positive change and innovation by developing a change maker mindset using a six step process. 

“We constantly challenge ourselves to raise the bar of our people’s well-being and consistently invest in developing their skills and the value they can bring to the organisation and society. By doing so, our people are equipped with leadership and entrepreneurial skills to improve outcomes for patients and animals,” said David Serés, Human Resources Director, ASKAN, Boehringer Ingelheim.

Boehringer Ingelheim has stepped up its commitment towards sustainability within Asia Pacific by launching initiatives such as Making More Health that enable employees to reach their full potential and impact on health and societal challenges. While partnering with the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), many employees have participated in animal vaccination campaigns to help control and prevent the spread of rabies in the region, making an impact on animal health. In addition, employees’ general well-being and growth mindset are nurtured through a variety of learning and training experiences, regular team discussions, employee assistance and stress relief programs, family days and disease awareness talks.

Boehringer Ingelheim has been listed among the top employers in multiple countries and regions for the past nine years. This year, Boehringer Ingelheim will receive the award in 29 countries, as well as additional certifications in Europe, the Asia Pacific, and – ranked first – the Latin America regions.

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Filipino rapper/producer Young Cocoa pays tribute to Jakarta on new single “J-TOWN (PM)"

Filipino rapper/producer Young Cocoa pays tribute to Jakarta on new single “J-TOWN (PM)"

 

The DNB-infused bop is produced by his frequent collaborator Trizzy

Filipino rapper-producer Young Cocoa revisits his experiences of growing up in Jakarta on "J-TOWN (PM)"—his new single via pan-regional label, OFFMUTE.

According to the prolific young artist, "J-TOWN (PM)" maps a pivotal moment in his life where he embraced the joys and pains of living in a multicultural city, pursued his goals and dreams, and met people with diverse backgrounds.

"The song is about how I feel about Jakarta," Young Cocoa reflects. "It’s not so much a nostalgic visit as it is one where I express how much impact the city has had on me."

While the majority of the lyrics are delivered in English, some of the lines in Young Cocoa’s latest track are in Bahasa Indonesia. The Manila chart-topper shares, "The way I did it was inspired by other Southeast Asian artists who would mix English and their native languages into their lyrics. I chose to incorporate Bahasa because I felt it was necessary to tell my story as authentically as possible, as this is a more serious take on how I normally structure the lyrics and storytelling of my music."

"J-TOWN (PM)" is produced by Young Cocoa’s frequent collaborator Trizzy, whose work pushes the rookie act to experiment and explore his sound even further. Combining drum n’ bass elements with UK Garage and lo-fi textures, the song showcases a grittier, edgier, and more serious side of Young Cocoa, while allowing listeners to get to know him on a deeper lyrical level.

"JTOWN is the most different song I’ve ever made," says Young Cocoa. "I consider it a benchmark in my discography in terms of my sound selection, tempo, mood, and overall evolution of taste."

"J-TOWN" will be on Young Cocoa’s debut mixtape, Sari Sari, to be released in the coming months. The soon-to-be-released EP contains a collaboration with an Asian artist he met last year at a music festival, as well as some bops.

Check out Young Cocoa’s “J-TOWN (PM)” on all digital music platforms via OFFMUTE. 

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Be Active Your Way with UNIQLO’s Sport Utility Wear

Be Active Your Way with UNIQLO’s Sport Utility Wear

Monday, February 13, 2023

Japanese global apparel retailer UNIQLO launches its latest Sport Utility Wear (SUW) collection that features high-quality and functional pieces that allow everyone to stay active and move freely in their own way. Composed of a variety of stylish, high-performance essentials designed for comfort, the new collection allows individuals to make all the best moves, wherever they are and whatever they do.

This season we see more pieces incorporate UNIQLO’s signature AIRism and DRY-EX fabrics, keeping one cool especially during intense activities and warmer climates.

These pieces are made for different activities beyond sports. With the perfect pieces that combine functionality and style, UNIQLO SUW has got your everyday activities covered.

MOVE FREELY YOUR WAY

Made for different activities beyond sports, stay comfortable and stylish with these pieces from the Sport Utility Wear collection:

Women’s AIRism Soft UV Protection Pocket Leggings

The smooth AIRism fabric is infused with moisture-wicking DRY technology, Cool Touch, and UV protection features. These light and comfortable leggings have been updated with more stretch at the waist for easier dressing. The stylish and relaxed look is perfect for unwinding at the park on a quiet afternoon.

Now available at Php 1,490.00

AIRism Cotton UV Protection Crew Neck T-Shirt

AIRism fabric brings comfort all day with its highly breathable, Cool Touch, and quick-drying properties. The added UV protection secures the wearer from the harsh rays of the sun. Wear this on the next coffee run.

Now available at Php 990.00

Ultra Stretch AIRism Easy Pants

The smooth AIRism mesh works with DRY technology to bring a lightweight and breathable feel. Its Ultra Stretch fabric goes in all directions for easy movement, an essential feature for doing errands all day.

Now available at Php 990.00

DRY-EX Short Sleeve Polo Shirt

This shirt is a highly functional and comfortable top perfect for rigorous activities. The DRY-EX function, Cool Touch technology, and ergonomically placed mesh sections provide extra breathability. It also has Odor-control properties that guarantee freshness even from extreme heat.

Now available at Php 990.00

DRY-EX UV Protection Full-Zip Long Sleeve Jacket

This jacket protects the wearer from unpredictable weather conditions, making it perfect for everyday use. The DRY-EX technology and UV protection properties block the sun’s rays, while the material brings warmth and comfort when the day turns windy. Whatever the season, its Ultra Stretch fabric and contoured knit bring breathability.

Now available at Php 1490.00

Kids’ DRY-EX Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Active kids can wear the DRY-EX Crew Neck Short Sleeve T-Shirt to stay fresh on Sundays with the family. It wicks sweat instantly while its odor-control features keep them smelling good all day.

Now available at Php 590.00

Women’s Dry Sweat Jogger Pants

These elegant jogger pants in a sophisticated fabric and silhouette are great for going to the movies. The stretchy fabric brings comfort, while the subtle sheen gives a premium look. It has a DRY technology feature that is a must for warmer days.

Now available at Php 1,490.00

Women’s Dry Sweat Tucked Tapered Pants

Going to the grocery can still be an opportunity to look stylish. These pants come in stylish neutral colors and go perfectly with cropped tops. The DRY technology and the blended fabric offer a high-quality and durable texture for a comfortable fit. The tucked design is made for ease of movement and streamlined appearance.

Now available at Php 990.00

For more updates, please visit UNIQLO Philippines’ website at uniqlo.com/ph. You can also download the UNIQLO APP via Google Play Store or Apple Store to experience the benefits of UNIQLO shopping anytime and anywhere, including the click and collect and self-checking of inventory features.

Follow UNIQLO Philippines’ social media accounts, Facebook (facebook.com/uniqlo.ph), Twitter (twitter.com/uniqloph), Instagram (instagram.com/uniqlophofficial), and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@uniqlophofficial) and UNIQLO Philippines’ website at uniqlo.com

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In a long-term relationship? Yes, you can still keep romance burning

In a long-term relationship? Yes, you can still keep romance burning

A MakatiMed expert shares ways to break out of a relationship rut

One day you can’t keep your hands off each other, and you’re constantly finishing each other’s sentences; the next, you find once-cute quirks annoying, and you’re both more preoccupied with what’s in your phones rather than what the other has to say. What happened to that intense, heady rush you felt at the beginning of your relationship when the mere presence of a person you couldn’t stop thinking and talking about made you blush and weak in the knees?

While Hollywood movies condition us to believe that passionate love is forever, science will tell you that the euphoria of a fresh new romance lasts anywhere from six months to two years. “It’s a phase driven by hormones and chemicals in the brain, like dopamine and oxytocin, that trigger attraction, lust, and attachment,” explains Ma. Gia Grace B. Sison, MD, Head of the MakatiMed Wellness Center of the top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Eventually, the levels of these feel-good hormones and chemicals taper, the so-called ‘honeymoon period’ is over, and that’s when you see your partner for what he or she truly is.”

Years into a relationship could make you fall into a rut. Suddenly, places and activities that excite you become unexciting and predictable. Respective careers and personal interests can also take your time away from your partner. Longtime couples with kids tend to put romance in the backburner once the responsibilities of raising a family become the top priority.

But just because the honeymoon is over doesn’t mean romance has to end too. “The bottom line is this: Relationships are never static; they grow and evolve the way you and your partner do,” says Dr. Sison. “They also need constant work, so if you want to revive the romance of your early days, you’ll have to be proactive and in it together. Both of you have to want it.”

The best part? If your relationship has matured through the years, any romantic feelings you rekindle with your mate will no longer be fueled by infatuation but by honest and deep love.

Communicate

Spend time together—whether on a mid-week date without the kids or an after-dinner stroll in the neighborhood—to talk and listen. “Refrain from touching on topics like home budget or what your children did in school,” suggests Dr. Sison. “Ask each other how your day went. Plan doable goals like getting fit together. Reminisce about your past—when you first met and what you liked about each other. Communication creates connection and intimacy.”

Try new things

Dine in a restaurant you haven’t been to before. Book yourselves in a place other than your go-to vacation destination. Learn a new skill or hobby together. “Longtime couples are likely to have settled into comfortable, fixed routines,” Dr. Sison points out. “Shake things up occasionally by introducing some novelty into your habits. The shared experience will help bring you closer and give you something to talk about.”

Surprise each other

Here, you don’t have to spend much money or perform grand gestures to do it. “Slip written sweet notes into their bag, wallet, or pocket. Do a chore that your partner is normally in charge of. Drop by unannounced and pick up your Significant Other from work. The thoughtfulness and unexpected act are enough to make anyone feel giddy and loved,” Dr. Sison advises.

Schedule sex

Sure, it sounds un-romantic, but if you schedule a few hours of intimacy instead of springing it on your partner, only to be scorned because “they have a headache,” you both have something to look forward to. Haven’t had sex in a while? “How about cuddling?” says Dr. Sison. “It’s still intimate and can even be sweeter.”

If despite all efforts, things aren’t improving, it’s recommended for couples to seek professional help like a counselor or a therapist. “You can try out individual therapy or marriage counseling. With these interventions, couples can learn healthy ways to communicate and prevent unhealthy habits and patterns, which will eventually help them de-escalate issues in the future and create a more loving relationship,” suggests Dr. Sison.

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

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ASIAN CULTURAL COUNCIL AUCTION February 18, 2023

ASIAN CULTURAL COUNCIL AUCTION February 18, 2023

Saturday, February 4, 2023

Benefiting Filipino artists increasingly through the ACC cultural exchange grants program, Chairman Ernest Escaler and President Ma. Isabel Ongpin leads ACC Philippines Foundation to a series of program fundraisers this year commencing with the Asian Cultural Council Auction.

Leading up to its momentous 25th year, ACC Philippines revs up to the highly anticipated auction on February 18, 2023 in collaboration with staunch partner Leon Gallery and Director Jaime Ponce De Leon.

This year’s event banners some of the most sought-after, rare and important works of art by Philippine masters and celebrated icons.

Rounding up the series of global festivities following its affiliate offices in New York, Hong Kong, Japan and Taipei marking the 60th ACC founding anniversary, ACC Philippines is in high gear for a special benefit gala dinner scheduled for November this year.

Proceeds from the fundraisers go entirely to the ACC Philippine Fellowship Program which supports Filipino artists in their journeys of self-exploration and development through cultural exchange in the United States and/or intra-Asia. Since ACC’s founding in 1963, over 300 artists have received fellowship grants. The ACC alumni roll holds exceptional talent across all disciplines, some of whom have become National Artists. Among them are Jose Joya, Lucresia Kasilag, Lamberto Avellana, Alejandro Roces, Francisco Feliciano, Jose Maceda, Kidlat Tahimik, Ramon Santos and Alice Reyes.

The latest ACC grantees on their fellowship are:

SASA CABALQUINTO (Dance) Fellowship to the United States and Japan to conduct research, immersion and exploration on Butoh dance and diaspora.

ROCKY CAJIGAN (Visual Art) Fellowship to the United States to explore curatorial and programming activities in New York.

RADNEL OFALSA (Music) Fellowship to support his second and final year as a candidate for the Master of Music Degree at the Mannes School of Music, The New School, in New York City.

The Asian Cultural Council Auction welcomes collectors and art patrons on Saturday, Feb. 18, at Leon Gallery, Makati City. The auction starts promptly at 2:00pm. To know more about the auction visit www.leon-gallery.com 

To know more about ACC and its Programs, visit www.asianculturalcouncil.org

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