Honoring Everyday Heroes for National Blood Donors Month

Thursday, July 13, 2023

National Blood Donors Month


Blood drive focuses on national need for consistent supply of life-saving blood


This National Blood Donors Month, Cardinal Santos Medical Center joins the global healthcare community under the banner of the World Health Organization’s "Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often," campaign. For 2023, the hospital focused on educating people and patients on the need for healthcare institutions to have a consistent and sustainable supply of blood donors and blood products.

The hospital also celebrated World Blood Donor Day with a blood drive last June 14, 2023. The drive saw a tremendous turnout of donors from all walks of life. Over 100 local community members, hospital staff and enthusiastic volunteers eagerly offered their support.

According to Fidel H. Tejada, who heads Cardinal Santos’ Blood Bank, even major Metro Manila hospitals are facing a challenge with the growing demand for blood and blood products. “Most of the big hospitals and Medical Centers in the country, private and government, including specialized hospitals are saturated. Our blood centers like Philippine Red Cross and Philippine Blood Center have a hard time keeping up with the blood needs of all these hospitals. This is the reason why we are doing our part on helping in blood collection in our institution.”

The event not only celebrated World Blood Donor Day but also served as a reminder that the act of giving blood is an act of love, compassion, and hope. 

Dr. Marilou A. Abiera, an Obstetrician-Gynecologist and the chairman of Cardinal Santos’ Blood Transfusion Committee stressed the importance of gaining the cooperation of communities. “Patients and their families can support the blood supply by encouraging healthy individuals to donate blood and they can spread awareness about the importance of blood donation within their communities, workplaces and social networks.” She also points out that one person can save up to three lives with one pint of donated blood at minimal cost. “It’s safe, it saves lives and it’s free.”

Blood is needed in critical medical settings like accidents or injuries, surgery, treatments for illnesses like cancer, dengue and anemia and even childbirth. But blood donation doesn’t just benefit patients that need a transfusion as there are several advantages to being a donor. Regular blood donation is linked to lower blood pressure and a decreased risk of heart attacks. In Cardinal Santos, registered donors are also given priority if they ever need to receive a transfusion themselves as long as there is an adequate supply.

With the collective efforts of organizations like Cardinal Santos Medical Center and the unwavering support of donors, the world can continue to beat, one life-saving pint of blood at a time.

“[People] can help by spreading awareness about the importance of blood donation and encouraging others to donate. Additionally, expressing gratitude to blood donors can go a long way in recognizing their valuable contribution,” said Abiera.

Cardinal Santos’ Blood Bank is open every day for those who wish to donate their blood. Those interested in donating blood may call them at 8727 0001 local 4015. For more information about the other programs and services that CSMC offers, visit https://cardinalsantos.com.ph/. CSMC is also on Facebook, like and follow them at www.facebook.com/CardinalSantos.
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UnionBank named Best Private Bank and Best Private Bank for Succession Planning

 

At The Digital Banker's Global Private Banking Innovation Awards 2023, UnionBank continues to reinforce its position as a highly trusted wealth management organization. UnionBank’s Private Banking Group was bestowed the “Best Private Bank, Philippines” and “Best Private Bank for Succession Planning” at the awards gala dinner held at Raffles Singapore last June.

The Global Private Banking Innovation Awards, organized by Global Private Banker and The Digital Banker, identifies, honors, and celebrates the world’s preeminent Private Banks, Family Offices and Wealth Managers that demonstrate elite levels of advisory, unbiased research, bespoke solutions, and their distinguished individuals’ contributions to the industry. Winners are organizations and industry leaders identified as trailblazers in pushing boundaries and pioneering innovation in the private wealth landscape.

"We share these awards with our clients, our sincerest gratitude for your continued trust and support, and of course, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to my talented and hardworking team,” said UnionBank’s Private Banking Group Head, Senior Vice President Atty. Arlene Joan T. Agustin, upon accepting the awards, “this recognition is a testament of UnionBank Private Banking's unwavering commitment to our clients and a reminder to keep striving for even greater success for Union Bank of the Philippines.”

The Bank has consistently been recognized as of one of Asia’s leading companies, ranking among the country’s top universal banks in terms of profitability and efficiency. As UnionBank Private Banking Group establishes itself as the go-to local Private Bank for wealth management, family services advisory, and succession planning, it has amassed an impressive collection of honors and accolades since 2020 from local and regional banking-award giving bodies. The Digital Banker awards are their latest following recognition as “Best for Wealth Transfer/ Succession Planning Philippines” and “Best for Philanthropic Services Philippines” from Asiamoney earlier in 2023.

UnionBank Private Banking seeks to unlock possibilities for its clients by giving them the edge and the power to navigate their wealth towards financial legacy. On its journey to become a Great Retail Bank, UnionBank is determined to be an enabler of the Philippines’ bid to be a G20 country by 2050.
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American singer-songwriter Sarah Reeves drops enchanting alt-pop track “Get Back Your Fight”

Sarah Reeves

At the request of fans, Curb | Word Entertainment singer, songwriter and pop artist Sarah Reeves debuts viral hit “Get Back Your Fight,” available today (6/23) — listen HERE. The blazing track marks the first song written and produced solely by Reeves. The music video premiered on Wonderland, a global magazine highlighting the best new and established talent across pop culture — watch it HERE.

After posting a reel of her demoing the first verse and chorus of the honest, theatrical selection that gives listeners a glimpse into Reeves’ mental health journey, the songstress garnered 25K new followers on social media in a month’s time. As fans gave the clip legs, the in-demand lyricist was challenged to complete the song that reveals her slapping on a fake smile, stuffing down her issues, and letting depression wreak havoc on her psyche. “Get Back Your Fight” finds the multifaceted artist in the ring, throwing a calculated one-two punch at fear and reassuring listeners they’re not alone in the struggle.

“I’ve done a lot of digging deep and healing this year, but sometimes I surprise myself when something comes up that trigger me or takes me back a few steps. It’s discouraging, but at the same time, I never want to be afraid to confront those issues that are deeply rooted in my heart. Let’s keep growing, keep healing; and don’t be too hard on yourself when you mess up. No hurt is ever wasted. We’re all in this together. Be kind to one another,” Reeves encourages fans, who continue to share her reels of “Get Back Your Fight.” “I’m so glad this song is helping and connecting with so many of you.”

“Get Back Your Fight” is the third in a series of new releases from Reeves this year, following nostalgia-laced offering “Jealousy” and romantic, first dance-worthy “Wanna Be Here,” which was featured in Hallmark Channel’s original movie, A Winning Team, this spring. Reeves will continue sharing new music in the months to come, leading up to a new full-length LP expected this fall.

Stream or purchase “Get Back Your Fight” HERE.

From Sarah’s forthcoming album “Best Days”

1. Best Days
2. I’d Rather Be Living
3. Back In Time (feat. Taylor Hill)
4. Billboards On Sunset
5. Triggered (feat. Social House)
6. Zuma Beach
7. Jealousy
8. Heaven Right Here
9. Any Other Way
10. Wanna Be Here
11. Conversations With Myself
12. Flash
13. Did You Forget
14. Little More Less Alone
15. Curtains
16. Get Back Your Fight


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Let your kids shine the brightest at SM Little Stars 2023


SM Supermalls’ search for the next biggest, brightest, and most talented kids in the country is back!


On July 6, SM Supermalls opened the pre-registration for SM Little Stars– the annual nationwide talent search for kids aged four to seven. Now in its 14th year, SM Little Stars has become a platform for some of the country’s biggest stars who are excelling in singing, acting, and modeling including 2013 Boy Grand Winner Nhikzy Calma, 2014 Girl Grand Winner Chun Sa Jung, 2013 3rd Runner-Up Esang De Torres, and 2017 Grand Girl Winner Gaea Salipot. 

“SM is and will always be a safe and nurturing place for the kids. Through SM Little Stars, we are staying true to our commitment to making the kids’ malling experience fun, memorable, and rewarding for them and their families. We want to make sure that this will be worth remembering for them,” said SM Supermalls Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin.

SM Little Stars Project Head Hanna Carinna Sy also said, “After an absence of three years, we are happy to be together again to launch what is undoubtedly the biggest kiddie talent search in the country, which will be held in 70 malls from Baguio and Tuguegarao to Davao and Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao.”

The kids who will make the Grand Finals will be trained by celebrity mentors in a series of workshops to develop their talents and confidence on stage. The workshops will also encourage them to bond and make new friends with their co-participants.

Stakes are higher in this year’s SM Little Stars with over P9 Million in cash and prizes starting with a brand new Suzuki S-presso Special Edition MT MC worth over P600,000; one-year talent contract at Sparkle GMA Artist Center; 100% discount on college tuition and miscellaneous fees at National University; a five-day and four-night trip for two (2) to Hong Kong; a total of P100,000 worth of cash and SM gift certificates (P50,000 cash and P50,000 worth of SM gift certificates); P30,000 worth of Toy Kingdom gift cards; an annual pass certificate for unlimited bowling game and skating admission valid for one (1) year; 30 regular ride tickets at SM by the Bay Amusement Park / Sky Ranch, and gift vouchers for a two-night stay with breakfast for two (2) at Radisson Blu Cebu await one lucky boy and lucky girl winners!

To register, the parent/guardian must bring their child’s original and photocopy of their birth certificates as well as two (2) copies of 4R size of their photo taken with light make-up only with one (1) close-up shot and one (1) whole body shot to select SM Supermalls nationwide. This will be attached to their application form which should be filled up and signed by the parents and/or legal guardians. To apply online, go to: https://smsupermalls.com/smlittlestars/.

SM Little Stars 2023 will run from July 15 to August 27 so hurry and register your talented little ones! To know more about SM Little Kids and the full list of prizes, visit smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.



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Dengue Health Reminders

Thursday, July 6, 2023

The dengue virus, also known as DENV, is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Due to the frequent rainy seasons, the virus is commonly present in tropical and subtropical countries[1] like ours. To protect our communities from dengue, Watsons wants to raise the alarm on the severity of this infection and educate the public on the preventive measures against it.




The Philippines has an average of 185,008 cases of dengue over a five year period of 2012-2016, and an average death count of 732.[2] As of April 29, a total of 39,947 dengue cases were recorded in 2023. Compared to the same period in 2022, this number is 43% higher.[3] Children between ages 5 and 9 years old made up almost half of the fatalities in the 2019 Philippine dengue virus outbreak.[4]



Although there is no cure for dengue, the disease can be managed early[5] and there are many ways to prevent getting infected by it. Watsons recommends using products that will keep you and your family safe from mosquito bites. Since the virus originates from the bite of a dengue-carrying mosquito, it is also advisable to take preventive measures to keep mosquitoes away from your home. To keep you protected against dengue, here are some easy tips from Watsons that you can follow:


Remove standing water around your house where mosquitoes could lay eggs.[6] Cover and change the water in any storage containers. Make sure to repair any cracks or gaps in pipes or septic tanks.

Use an insect spray made to kill mosquitoes in areas where they rest. Mosquitoes rest in dark, humid areas like under patio furniture, carports, or garages.[7]

Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home by installing or repairing window and door screens. Do not leave doors propped open.[8]

The first line of defense against the dengue virus is boosting our immune system. Multivitamins such as Watsons Vitamin C + Zinc can help strengthen our body’s defense and heal wounds faster by protecting and keeping your cells healthy, and also maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, and bones and cartilage.[9] Zinc also helps grow cells, build proteins, and heal damaged tissues.[10]

To also protect yourself from other potential disease-carrying insects, insect repellent lotions and patches provide a safe and skin-friendly repellant that you can have on your person. These work great for traveling or when you’re outside frequently.

Putting small drops of citronella essential oil around your home is a stylish and a more organic way to keep your home safe from disease-carrying insects. It’s also safe to apply on your skin!

After being exposed to harsh weather changes or when we work ourselves beyond what our body can handle, getting sick can’t be avoided. If you start getting headaches or body pains, or you’re starting to feel a fever setting in, Watsons Paracetamol is your friend.

The rainy season brings various illnesses so make sure you stock up on Watsons Ambroxol and some lozenges as well to combat colds and coughs. Ambroxol clears congestion in respiratory diseases because it thins down and breaks up phlegm.[11] Meanwhile, lozenges relieve sore throat, throat irritation, and also help with cough relief.[12]

Watsons offers more medicines, vitamins, and supplements that can help build immunity and maintain your health. You just need to listen to what your body needs and take a trip to your nearest Watsons branch. They have a wide selection of options and prices that suit your preferences. In the Watsons app, more discounts and exclusive offers are waiting for you! Download it on iOS and Android and have your items delivered to you, or you can pick them up from your desired branch. Don’t let the rainy season slow you down. With Watsons as your health partner, it’s easy to stay safe and protected from any illnesses, even if it’s as serious as dengue.



[1] Dengue and severe dengue. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue. Accessed June 8, 2023.


[2] Dengue. Republic of the Philippines Department of Health. https://doh.gov.ph/Health-Advisory/Dengue. Accessed June 8, 2023.




[4] Why are children highly vulnerable to dengue infection? https://pjhrd.upm.edu.ph/index.php/main/article/view/697 Accessed June 8, 2023.


[5] Dengue. Republic of the Philippines Department of Health. https://doh.gov.ph/Health-Advisory/Dengue. Accessed June 8, 2023.


[6] Controlling Mosquitoes at Home. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/controlling-mosquitoes-at-home.html. Accessed June 8, 2023.


[7] Controlling Mosquitoes at Home. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/controlling-mosquitoes-at-home.html. Accessed June 8, 2023.


[8] Controlling Mosquitoes at Home. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/controlling-mosquitoes-at-home.html. Accessed June 8, 2023.


[9] Vitamin C. National Health Service UK. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-c/. Accessed on June 8, 2023


[10] Zinc. Harvard T.H. Chan. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/zinc/. Accessed on June 8, 2023.


[11] Ambroxol Hydrochloride. Drugs.com. https://www.drugs.com/ambroxol.html. Accessed on June 8, 2023.


[12] Throat Lozenges 32.5 Mg - Uses, Side Effects, and More. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-3867/throat-lozenges-mucous-membrane/details. Accessed on June 8, 2023.
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4 nutrients lacking in most Filipinos’ diets

These And the easy ways to get them, according to MakatiMed



For a country hailed as the center of biodiversity and blessed with an abundance of fresh tropical fruits and vegetables, it is ironic that the Philippines has been grappling with the issue of undernutrition as far as we can remember. And we’re not just talking about the millions of children whose limited food choices at home have left them emaciated and small for their age. Even adults suffer from nutrient deficiencies too.




“While poverty is often thought to be the cause of micronutrient deficiencies, it’s also due to Filipinos’ overdependence on rice and lack of diversity in their diets,” says Maricar M. Esculto, RND, MD, Head of Nutrition & Dietetics Department of the top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Adults who think they can get by with a cup of instant noodle soup for lunch and a fast-food burger, fries, and soda for dinner every day are not getting the adequate vitamins and minerals needed for the human body to function optimally.”


At least 30 vitamins and minerals allow our body to do what it is supposed to do on the regular: digest food, repair injuries, flush out toxins, convert what we eat and drink into energy, and the like. “Without these vitamins and minerals, you disrupt your body’s metabolism, experience weakness, and increase your risk of disease,” Dr. Esculto points out. “A blood test can confirm if you are indeed lacking in specific nutrients. But also, be aware of symptoms you can see and feel. As soon as you can identify your particular nutrient deficiency, you can address it with a simple tweak in your diet.”


This Nutrition Month, MakatiMed cites Filipinos’ most common nutrition deficiencies and the simple ways to correct them:


Iron


Iron helps make hemoglobin that transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Dr. Esculto says it also makes myoglobin, which supplies our muscles with oxygen. The recommended nutrient intake (RNI) per day of iron for the average adult male is 12mg. It can be as high as 28mg for adult women who have their period. Luckily, accessible foods like beef, liver, beans, legumes, fortified cereals, and whole and fortified grain products are rich sources of iron.


“A lack of iron could lead to anemia, a condition wherein the body doesn’t produce enough red blood cells. Note the fatigue, pale skin and lips, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, lightheadedness, and cold hands and feet. Women with anemia may experience premature delivery or maternal mortality,” shares Dr. Esculto.

Vitamin C


Vitamin C in many fruits and vegetables strengthens our immune system. A potent antioxidant, it may also aid in slowing the aging process. “A severe deficiency in Vitamin C makes us vulnerable to a host of diseases. Expect your skin to be dry and bruise easily, your gums to bleed, your joints to ache, your wounds to heal slowly, and your energy levels to nosedive,” notes Dr. Esculto.


Since the body does not produce or store Vitamin C, consuming it daily is a must. The RNI per day for adult males is 70mg and 60mg for adult females. Local favorites papaya, guava, calamansi, pineapple, and the nutrient-dense malunggay or moringa are all packed with Vitamin C.

Calcium


Often associated with bone and teeth health, calcium is also responsible for muscle contraction, transporting blood throughout the body, and helping nerves send messages to the brain and other body parts. “Nails that are brittle and bones that fracture easily are not the only symptoms of hypocalcemia or severe deficiency in calcium. Muscle cramps and spasm, numbness in the hands, feet, and face, and even depression, hallucinations, and confusion or memory loss have been observed among those with low levels of calcium,” explains Dr. Esculto.


Don’t like milk? Turn to cheese, yogurt, sardines, beans, lentils, nuts, and leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach to get your daily dose of calcium. The average adult, male or female, needs 750-800mg of calcium a day.

Iodine


Iodine helps produce thyroid hormones responsible for our growth and development, the optimum function of our brain and nervous system, modulation of the female reproductive system, and keeping our body temperature normal. “Goiter, or the swelling of the neck, results from a lack of iodine in the diet. So do maternal-related conditions like prenatal death and infant mortality. Pregnant women who lack adequate iodine in their system put their babies at risk for hearing impairment, cleft palate, and mental retardation,” says Dr. Esculto.


Seafood is an excellent source of iodine. So are dried fish and fresh seaweeds. Since 1995, the government has taken steps to address iodine deficiency and its effects. Republic Act No. 8172 or the ASIN Law, aims to put an end to disorders caused by iodine deficiency by mandating all salt producers and manufacturers to iodize their products.


For more information, please contact the Nutrition & Dietetics Department through 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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Manulife moves with Pride as part of its continuing diversity, equity, and inclusion journey

Monday, July 3, 2023



Global financial services provider Manulife reaffirms its commitment to prioritizing and reinforcing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in its products, services, and employee programs to help create an inclusive work environment and safe spaces for all.

Since 2020, Manulife’s global investments of over US$3.5 million promote DEI across markets where it operates. In the Philippines, employee resource groups like Professionals Reaching Out for Unity and Diversity (PROUD) promotes an inclusive workplace for LGBTQ+ employees to encourage their full and unencumbered contributions at work. Recently, Manulife PROUD held a flag-raising event at the company’s head office branch in NEX Tower, Makati to mark the start of the Pride Month. Manulife employees in the Philippines also joined the Metro Manila Pride March and Festival at the Quezon City Memorial Circle to celebrate LGBTQ+ acceptance, achievements, and rights. This participation is in line with Manulife’s Impact Agenda to drive inclusive economic opportunities for all and empower sustained health and well-being through the launch of its Manulife MOVE for Staff mobile app.

To uphold its commitment of inclusivity among its customers, all of Manulife’s insurance products allow LGBTQ+ customers to name their domestic partners as beneficiaries.

“In Manulife, we recognize the diversity of relationships that exist in our society, so we remain committed to create inclusive spaces for our employees, customers, and the communities we serve. By offering relevant, affordable, and customizable products that protect Filipinos and their loved ones, regardless of their background, sexual orientation or gender, we not only recognize that DEI is a key driver of our business success, but we also propel ourselves forward to foster a culture of belonging where everyone feels included and respected,” said Melissa Henson, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines. Henson is also the Philippine lead of Manulife’s DEI thrust

Manulife advocates for an inclusive work environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their careers. Continuous learning courses include supporting LGBTQ+ talent in the workplace through upskilling initiatives and expert learning sessions that stir greater awareness of gender equality and active allyship. Through Pursuit, Manulife’s online platform for continuous learning, all employees can also take expert-led courses that enhance their business, communication, technology, and other field-focused skills, which help in their career progression. DEI-specific learning resources are also available to promote inclusive leadership, anti-racism and anti-discrimination practices, gender equality and allyship, and the impact of heteronormativity on mental wellness, among others. 

Across the global organization, in celebration of the Pride Month, Manulife have also hosted special virtual sessions as part of its Global Afternoon of Reflection and Learning, where Manulife employees around the world can learn more about topics like The Business of Inclusion, Trans-inclusive Healthcare Coverage, and The Role of Games in Learning & Inclusion.

“Diversity in the workplace drives innovation. By embracing DEI, our employees feel seen and heard to share their creative ideas, which helps us strategize better so we can develop more meaningful products and services that best serve our customers,” added Henson.

In 2020, the United Nations (UN) Women 2020 Asia-Pacific Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards honored Manulife as one of the Philippines' most gender-inclusive workplaces and was the only insurance brand to have been recognized in the awards.
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Young Cocoa celebrates a tale of two cities in new song “Fadeaway”

Young Cocoa


The sophisticated, hip-hop track will be part of his upcoming EP, Sari Sari

Filipino hip-hop artist Young Cocoa expresses great respect and honor to the two places that he calls home in a crossover track bursting with lush sounds and sophisticated melodies.

His new single “Fadeaway” serves as a love letter to Manila and Jakarta—two culturally distinct but vibrant cities that cultivated his upbringing and sense of self through the years.

Young Cocoa explains, “Fadeaway is about celebrating my two homes, Jakarta and Manila. I wanted to try and integrate my experiences into the song and translate it into a message where I take pride in owning both places that I truly call home.”

Produced by his go-to collaborator and friend Trizzy, “Fadeaway” shines with unmistakable presence on first listens. Credit goes to Trizzy for allowing YC’s youthful, nostalgic lyrics to soar over catchy, sinuous beats and genre-hopping production in a seamless manner. Both Young Cocoa and Trizzy bring star power, subtlety, and quality to a surefire bop that runs perfectly with the narrative’s “conscious effort of expression and the passion of being young and yet wanting to be remembered by everyone.”

“I think in general we wanted to keep it lighthearted and laidback, in tune with most of my music,” shares the young trailblazer. “A lot of this track is carried by the production and melodies introduced into the song, as well as the work Trizzy put in to try to tailor the beat to certain dynamics of the lyrics I wrote.”

According to Young Cocoa, “Fadeaway” embodies the central theme of his upcoming new EP, Sari Sari, to be released soon under OFFMUTE. He also takes pride in how the song proved to be a testament to his growth as an artist and a budding producer trying to understand the jargon behind the process. Thankfully, he has Trizzy to back him up in setting up his music journey. 

“I always have a great time working with a young mind like his, and we have great chemistry with each other,” Young Cocoa adds. “In general, we both push each other out of our comfort zones to try and get the best out of our work, and I think that’s awesome.”

Young Cocoa’s “Fadeaway” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via OFFMUTE and Sony Music Entertainment. 



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Jemay Santiago marks new chapter in her career with R&B-inspired debut single “May Iba Na Ba”

Jemay Santiago

The bedroom jam channels her pre-breakup feelings with incredibly honesty and rawness


Sony Music Entertainment has recently signed Filipino newcomer Jemay Santiago, whose hypnotic persona and sultry singing style serve as a great addition to the label’s diverse pool of talented music acts. 

According to Jemay, working with the international record label is a dream come true, and inspires her to explore her artistry without hesitation. 

“Music is my passion, and I’ve always wanted this dream,” said Jemay. “It’s an opportunity I would never skip. I personally and confidently believe that this record label will handle me conscientiously.”

Favoring an expressive but understated approach to contemporary pop and R&B, the rising act marks a new chapter in her career with the release of “May Iba Na Ba,” her official debut single. 

A sensuous slow jam that glides atop butter-smooth production and trap beats, “May Iba Na Ba” reflects on a rollercoaster of doubt and insecurities, while navigating a romantic relationship that is headed towards going astray.

“The song talks about my feelings, thoughts, and emotions during a pre-breakup with my previous relationship,” Jemay explains. “At some point, it made me question my worth of being loved. May IBa Na Ba sums up that bleak phase in my life. I want to capture its essence and rawness through music.”

Penned by the rising soloist herself and produced, mixed, and mastered by frequent collaborator Gussy Sauce, “May IBa Na Ba” skirts on the periphery of bedroom pop and R&B with a more daring approach to sonic direction while remaining true to her core as an artist.

“We explored and went outside our boxes so we could do better music together,” the teen rookie shares. “We were able to achieve that in the name of art and music, as we want to break barriers between local and international music and influences while bringing our own spin to it.”

“May IBa Na Ba” will be part of Jemay’s tentatively titled debut album, PAHINGA, and will be accompanied by a music video to be released soon.

The song is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Listen here.
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Makati Medical Center Achieves Investors in People Gold Accreditation

Wednesday, June 28, 2023


Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) has been recognized for its commitment to exceptional people management practices by achieving the Sixth Generation Investors in People (IiP) Gold Accreditation. MakatiMed is the first in the healthcare industry in the Philippines and the second only to be awarded Gold Status on its first assessment.




From the evaluation, MakatiMed proved that they are establishing connections with their people, providing abundant learning opportunities, comprehensive infrastructure that clarifies career paths, and recognition to appreciate their contributions. This determined MakatiMed as “Advanced” or “Established” in their practices, rating above the IiP average.


MakatiMed President and CEO Atty. Nenuca P. Almira expressed her gratitude and pride to all the employees for the received accreditation. She also stated her plans and aspirations for the hospital, “Because we strive to improve and continue to raise the bar higher, we strive for Platinum! We will keep working on areas that will further progress our leadership and people practices,” she said.


Being a hospital with a heart, MakatiMed’s attainment of the Investors in People Gold Accreditation reflects its dedication to nurturing its workforce and establishing a culture of excellence. The hospital's commitment to continuous improvement will undoubtedly contribute to elevating people management standards within the healthcare industry and across various sectors.


Based in the United Kingdom, Investors in People is awarded to organizations from all over the world that prioritize staff development to improve their business performance. There are four levels of accreditation: Accredited, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.


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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