SOCIAL MEDIA

Justin Timberlake releases sixth studio album, Everything I Thought I Was

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Justin Timberlake

“No Angels” official music video out soon

Multi-award-winning artist Justin Timberlake has released his new sixth studio album, Everything I Thought It Was via RCA Records and Sony Music Entertainment. In addition, Justin Timberlake will be dropping the official music video for his new track off the album, “No Angels” soon. The music video was directed by Ti West. 

Everything I Thought It Was Tracklist

Memphis
F**kin’ Up The Disco
No Angels
Play
Technicolor
Drown
Liar (ft. Fireboy DML)
Infinity Sex
Love & War
Sanctified (ft. Tobe Nwigwe)
My Favorite Drug 
Flame
Imagination
What Lovers Do
Selfish
Alone
Paradise (ft. *NSYNC)
Conditions


Most recently, Justin Timberlake performed at a one-night-only underplay show on Wednesday, March 13th in Los Angeles, CA at The Wiltern. Earlier in the week, Timberlake made a special musical guest performance on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!, where he performed No Angels

Last month, Justin Timberlake released his track Drown, which was written by Timberlake, Louis Bell (Taylor Swift, Post Malone), Henry Walter, Amy Allen, Kenyon Dixon and produced by Timberlake Louis Bell, Cirkut (Maroon 5, The Weeknd). Earlier this year, Timberlake dropped his single and music video Selfish, which garnered over 100 million worldwide streams and over 19 million views on YouTube. Justin Timberlake also made a special musical guest performance on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, where he performed his single “Selfish” and “Sanctified” feat. Tobe Nwigwe. 

This release follows Justin Timberlake’s announcement of his long-awaited tour, The Forget Tomorrow World Tour. Produced by Live Nation, stops include performances in North America and Europe/the UK. 

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Patricia Heart joins all-star roster of Sony Music Entertainment, releases debut single “Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo”

Monday, March 4, 2024

Patricia Heart

The track blends confessional songwriting style with a soul-stirring, crossover sound

Filipino singer-songwriter Patricia Heart is ready to captivate the mainstream audience with her authenticity and music talent. The CamSur-based recording artist has recently signed with Sony Music Entertainment, the home to an all-star roster of OPM acts such as Ben&Ben, SB19, Clara Benin, Ace Banzuelo, Denise Julia, O Side Mafia, Demi, and dwta—to name a few.

Apart from being the newest addition to the growing family of the international record label, the promising newcomer sets her sights on representing her hometown on the global stage while showcasing her individuality through music.

Her debut single “Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo” hints at an even brighter future as Patricia Heart defies expectations with her unique brand of charisma and songwriting chops. Buoyed by a suspenseful intro of synthesized strings and dramatic instrumentation, the soulful ballad reveals her experience as a young woman trapped in a toxic relationship, struggling to find light at the end of the tunnel.

Patricia Heart explains, “This song was written after losing one’s self to an obsessive, toxic relationship and eventually realizing the need to walk away from it in order to reclaim my sense of self-love. I have been in this kind of situation before. But you know: it takes two to tango, so no matter how badly we want to keep that relationship, if the other person is not as invested as you or you keep on sacrificing your worth as a person, it will never be saved.”

The emotional single showcases Patricia Heart’s confessional songwriting style, infusing even more unfiltered woundedness into her sonically rich sound. Showcasing drama and, to an extent, dark humor to the mix, the budding pop/alternative talent marks her debut with an earworm that will surely gain traction among listeners of all ages, who can relate to her earnestness as a singer-songwriter.

“There’s so much that I can offer as an artist, and I hope the general public will love Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo,” Patricia Heart shares. “It’s a song that comes from a place of hopelessness and trauma, but it’s also a cautionary tale that encourages the listener to never put other people’s feelings above your own, especially when you’re constantly losing your own person in the process.”

“Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo” will be part of her upcoming debut EP, Songs of Siren, to be released soon. The highly anticipated release will contain five songs and is “poised to cast a spell on listeners once they hear the siren sing.”

Patricia Heart’s “Kahit Di Ako ang Gusto Mo” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
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Filipino indie-rock band CHEATS to celebrate 10th anniversary with intimate show


Filipino indie-rock outfit CHEATS will be celebrating their 10th anniversary in the local music scene with a headline show happening on March 16, 2024, at Balcony Music House in Makati City.

The “Accidents” band will be performing a long set featuring fan favorites and rarities. Joining CHEATS are some of their long-time music peers, including SOS, Oh, Flamingo! and Sandwich.

“We wanted to do a show that has a 'party like it's the mid-2010s' vibe, which is the reason why we chose Sandwich, SOS, and Oh, Flamingo! to share the stage with us,” the eclectic 7-piece act explains in a press statement. “They were among the bands we loved (and still do) and played a lot with back when the band was just starting out. We’ll all play lengthy sets, and while we haven’t come up with a set list yet, we’ll likely play as many of our favorite songs as possible from the last 10 years.”

The intimate gathering also doubles as a launch for the band’s special limited-edition merchandise, particularly the classic CHEATS logo shirt with new colorways, re-released for those who haven’t had the chance to get one or want to collect them all. 

CHEATS also expressed gratitude to the fans who have continuously supported their work all these years. “Thanks to everyone who has supported the band, whether you’ve been there since the early days or just discovered us fairly recently. This will be our first show since last September, so we’re itching to play again for all of you.”

CHEATS was first formed by Jim Bacarro in 2013 and features Bacarro on vocals, keys, and guitar; Saab Magalona and Candy Gamos on vocals; Manny Tanglao on bass; Jason Caballa and Kyle Quismundo on guitars; and Enzo Hermosa on drums. The 7-piece band has produced three critically acclaimed studio albums to date: 2016’s Cheats, 2017’s Before The Babies, and 2022’s Houseplants. They have also headlined several music festivals here and abroad, such as Wanderland Music and Arts Festival, Clockenflap Music and Arts Festival, Laneway Music Festival, and AXEAN Festival, to name a few. 

Tickets to 10 YEARS OF CHEATS are now available via bit.ly/cheats10. Early bird passes have already sold out, but regular passes are still available for PHP 800. 

10 YEARS OF CHEATS is presented by CHEATS and GNN Entertainment Productions. 

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Double the Fun: 2 Galaxy Tab A9 for 1 Price in Payday Sale!

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

There are even more reasons to love the Galaxy Tab A9 LTE this February, as you can get TWO of the Galaxy Tab A9 LTE for the price of one from February 26 to 29, 2024.




Get two Galaxy Tab A9 LTE for only P10,990 so you can double the fun of expansive entertainment and boost productivity for the whole family with the brighter Galaxy Tab A9 LTE display.


Sleek and expansive entertainment center


Whether you love to spend time playing games or streaming your favorite shows with your loved ones, the Galaxy Tab A9 will surely captivate you with its large and bright 8.7” Screen Display and a smooth screen refresh rate of up to 60Hz. Games and shows are also even more immersive with the rich soundscape of Dual Speakers (1.0W) powered by Dolby Atmos found in the Galaxy Tab A9 LTE.


Be the ‘Pro’ in productivity


With the Galaxy Tab A9 LTE, you can play hard and work hard through its DeX Mode feature that lets you connect your Tab to a screen for a portable work setup similar to using a laptop. The Galaxy Tab A9 can be easily connected to an external display, like a TV or monitor, so you can impress your customers with polished output presentations and then watch content with family and friends.


Memories and important files can also be saved on the tablet’s 128GB storage, along with up to 8GB of RAM, which assists in alleviating multitasking latency.


The ultimate family-friendly tablet


Looking for kid-friendly entertainment? Be at ease with Samsung’s secured digital ecosystem for kids so your little ones have a safe environment to explore and connect with the world.


Samsung Kids offers features that can assist your children in forming positive online and digital behaviors. Playtime limits can be set, and you can grant access to particular contacts and applications. You can even view your child's usage history and ensure they only view appropriate content by accessing a usage report. Your youngster may play and study in a secure environment with Samsung Kids.


To enable the Samsung Kid ecosystem, enter and exit the app by simply tapping on Samsung Kids in the Quick menu and using your device's PIN or biometrics. You don’t need to memorize another passcode to open this feature. To change any setting, long press the Samsung Kids button to change any settings.




Don’t miss this chance to double the fun with the Galaxy Tab A9 LTE awards! Bring home TWO Galaxy Tab A9 LTE for the price of one, from February 26 to 29, 2024. The promo is exclusively available on select Samsung Online Stores Lazada, Shopee and TikTok.



To learn more about the Galaxy Tab A9 and A9+, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/


DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-186418 Series of 2024
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4 safe ways to clean your ear

MakatiMed recommends these tried-and-tested methods of removing ear wax—only if needed




For generations, cotton buds—aka cotton swabs, Q-tips—those small wooden, cardboard, or plastic rods with wads of cotton wrapped tightly on either end, were the go-to cleaner for our ears. Yet by shoving a cotton bud in your ear, you risk doing more harm than good, says Joseph Ray Richard R. Cedeño, MD of the ENT Center (Dr. Ariston G. Bautista Center) of the top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).


“When you use a cotton swab to remove ear wax (or cerumen) from your inner ear, you could push more cerumen in, creating a buildup in your ear canal,” warns Dr. Cedeño. “This results in hearing problems, ringing in the ear, dizziness, and pain. Poking a cotton swab in the external canal could also damage your eardrum, a complication that may need surgery to fix. And cleaning your ear with a cotton swab is one of the leading causes of otitis externa, or an infection in your ear canal.”


Though often considered dirty and gross (hence the need to get them out of our ears), ear wax serves a purpose. “Ear wax is a sign of healthy ears,” adds Dr. Cedeño. “It serves as a filter of sorts, trapping and preventing bacteria, fungus, and tiny objects from entering our inner ears. It also protects the delicate skin of our ear canal and acts as a natural moisturizer.”


So important is ear wax that no less than the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation declared that we should just leave ear wax alone, especially if it doesn’t cause any problems. “It helps to know that the ear has a self-cleaning mechanism,” Dr. Cedeño points out. “In time, ear wax naturally migrates from the inside to the outer ears. Even chewing and moving your jaw helps move old ear wax from the ear canal to the outer ears.”


But if you must clean your ears—maybe you feel a buildup or notice your hearing is muffled—there are several ways to do it. MakatiMed recommends these four safe ways:


With a washcloth


“This is only meant for the outer ear,” reminds Dr. Cedeño. “Use a warm and damp washcloth to gently wipe the outer surfaces of your ear.”


With baby oil, mineral oil, or glycerin


Warm the baby oil, mineral oil, or glycerin to your body temperature. Tilt your head to the side and place about 3 drops inside your affected ear with a dropper. Repeat twice a day for 5 days maximum until the wax softens. “When it does, gently guide warm water into the ear, then tip your head to drain your ear of fluid and wax. Clean with a washcloth or paper towel,” says Dr. Cedeño.


With a cotton swab


Yes, it is possible to still clean with the controversial cotton swab. “Just use it to gently clean only the outer soft part of the ear canal and not the bony inner part,” Dr. Cedeño stresses.


With your doctor’s help


Visit an otolaryngologist (that is, a doctor specializing in conditions related to the ear, neck, and throat) if you experience pain in your ear, fever, some hearing loss, or fluid coming out of your ear. “Your doctor has the tools and expertise to safely remove ear wax and check for any underlying problems,” Dr. Cedeño suggests.


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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2024 trends transforming Southeast Asia's insurance landscape

Monday, February 19, 2024

Southeast Asia's insurance sector is undergoing a massive transformation to keep up with evolving market demands and maintain competitiveness. In the Philippines, where insurance penetration is at a mere 1.68%, the industry is grappling with persistent challenges such as complexities, outdated systems, and regulatory hurdles. However, amidst these obstacles, the industry is forging ahead with innovation and modernization, with insurtechs emerging as crucial drivers of this change, fueling efficiency enhancements and elevating customer experiences.




Insurtechs have facilitated the seamless integration of insurance into the purchase journey across diverse platforms, including e-commerce, fintech, and logistics. They have also made it possible for brick-and-mortar establishments such as convenience stores to become viable distribution channels to enhance accessibility and awareness of insurance products, bringing offline consumers online. Insurtech firms likewise empower insurers to create personalized products, meeting the unique needs of underserved sectors and effectively managing emerging risks in digital consumers' lifestyles today–these include pet insurance, travel insurance, electronic and mobile phone protection, and even micro, small, and medium business insurance.

Amidst the industry's continuous transformation, insurtech Igloo identifies key trends poised to persist in 2024, further elevating efficiency throughout the insurance value chain and propelling the ongoing momentum of embedded insurance and personalization.

AI-Powered Data Analytics for Enhanced Risk Assessment


Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fast becoming the cornerstone of the insurance sector, revolutionizing the way companies analyze data and assess risks. This year, we can expect insurers to increasingly leverage AI for advanced data analytics, allowing them to gain deeper insights into customer behavior, preferences, and emerging risks. By harnessing the power of AI, insurers can enhance their risk assessment models, leading to more accurate pricing and better management of uncertainties in the ever-changing market.

Blockchain for smoother claims processing


Blockchain's sustained influence in insurance underscores its pivotal role in streamlining claims processing. The decentralized and transparent nature of blockchain ensures efficient, fraud-resistant transactions, expediting claims settlement and reducing administrative costs. This enduring trend continues revolutionizing the insurance landscape by enhancing accuracy, trust, and operational efficiency.

Zero-Code Platforms for Swift Product Launch


The adoption of zero-code platforms is set to streamline and accelerate the launch of new insurance products across various channels. These platforms empower insurance companies to develop, modify, and deploy applications without extensive coding, significantly reducing the time and resources required for product development. This rapid deployment capability ensures that insurers can respond swiftly to market demands, offering a diverse range of products tailored to the evolving needs of consumers.

Digital Empowerment of Agents to Boost Productivity


As the industry becomes more digital, insurance agents are also set to benefit from advanced technologies that enhance their productivity and improve customer interactions. In 2024, insurers are expected to invest in empowering their agents with digital tools and resources, facilitating seamless communication, quicker policy issuance, and personalized customer experiences. The digitalization of agents also contributes to an overall positive customer journey, fostering loyalty and satisfaction.

Securing Against Climate Change Through Insurance




Climate insurance has emerged in response to the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related events. As businesses, individuals, and governments grapple with the impacts of climate change, insurance has become a critical tool for managing the financial losses resulting from it, such as damage to agriculture, infrastructure, and personal property. This trend exemplifies a proactive approach to mitigating economic losses, aligning with the shift towards sustainability and resilience in the face of climate uncertainties.

Igloo believes the rising demand for personalized insurance in our region is prompting insurers and embedded insurance ventures to embrace the latest tech trends. By seamlessly incorporating these innovations, the leading regional insurtech firm is not just keeping up; it's staying one step ahead, shaping the future of insurance for Southeast Asian communities. Its commitment is to remain at the forefront of industry shifts, ensuring its approach aligns seamlessly with the evolving needs of its valued customers.
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Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Off The Record Team Up to Elevate Filipino Music on the Global Stage

Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Sony Music Entertainment (SME) Philippines and Off The Record, a Manila-based indie record label known for nurturing Filipino artists, have announced a new product and distribution partnership to further develop and promote Filipino music.

From Left to Right: Francis Dayao, General Manager, Off The Record; Ricky Ilacad, CEO and Founder, Off The Record; Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment; Maan Atienza, Deputy General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment.


Under the partnership, SME Philippines will distribute Off The Record’s music catalogue globally and work together to build strategies in marketing, media promotion, artist development, brand partnership, and synchronization.

An industry veteran who has launched the careers of the biggest alternative, pop, and crossover artists of the last two decades, Ricky Ilacad founded Off The Record with the intention to harness his market-tested expertise to develop Filipino homegrown talents and accelerate their chances of success in the continuously evolving but globally inclusive music scene.

"We are thrilled to join forces with Off The Record," said Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment. "Ricky Ilacad has a proven track record of success in the music industry, and we share his passion for developing exceptional Filipino talent. Together, we will create unparalleled opportunities for artists and reshape the music industry."

The partnership comes at an exciting time for both SME Philippines and Off The Record. Off The Record has recently enjoyed success with releases from newcomer Ica Frias (“Oh Honey”) and breakthrough band Paham (“Ganid”). Autotelic’s Josh Villena also brought his A game to the label’s growing roster of eclectic acts with the release of “Hello” via his music alter-ego totâ. SME Philippines continues to be a leading force in the Philippine music industry, with a roster of top artists, including Ben&Ben, SB19, and O SIDE MAFIA.

Ricky Ilacad, CEO of Off The Record, said: "I've always believed that Filipino music has the potential to take the world by storm. With SME Philippines as our partner, we will be able to provide our artists with the resources and support they need to achieve international success. We are excited to embark on this journey together and help Filipino music reach new heights. This time, we’re going global without leaving home.”

Together, SME Philippines and Off The Record are poised to make a significant impact on the global music scene. The partnership is a testament to the growing popularity of Filipino music and the commitment of both companies to nurturing and promoting Filipino talent.

New releases in February 2024:

YMP Cash – “Life” :: February 2, 2024
Here+Now – “Still Alive” :: February 2, 2024
Lee Noynoy – “Sasaluhin Kita (Acoustic)” :: February 16, 2024
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A GIFT FROM THE GODS! “PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS” GETS SECOND SEASON ORDER AT DISNEY+

PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS


Series From Disney Branded Television and 20th Television Will Return With Stars Walker Scobell, Leah Sava Jeffries, and Aryan Simhadri


With over 110 million hours* streamed to date, the Disney+ series “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” has been officially renewed for a second season. The announcement was made today by The Walt Disney Company Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger during the company’s first quarter earnings call for the fiscal year 2024. The upcoming season will feature the return of Walker Scobell, Leah Sava Jeffries, and Aryan Simhadri, who will embark on a new adventure based on “The Sea of Monsters” - the second installment of Rick Riordan’s best-selling “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” book series, published by Disney Hyperion.

“Rich in magic, wonder, adventure and heart, ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ captivated the imaginations of viewers of all ages everywhere,” said Ayo Davis, President of Disney Branded Television. “We’re thrilled to embark on an exciting new quest and a season two with Rick Riordan, our fantastic partners at 20th Television, and the exceptional ensemble of cast and creative talent that bring this story to life.”

Said Riordan: “I can’t wait to bring the next season of Percy Jackson to Disney+! Raise anchors. Hoist the mainsail. All hands on deck, demigods. We’re heading for the Sea of Monsters!”

“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” was one of the top 5 season premieres of 2023**, with the first episode garnering 26.2 million views in its first three weeks on Disney+ and Hulu. On social, the #percyjackson hashtag earned over 1 billion views*** on TikTok in the US over the last 30 days, while series-owned social handles have amassed a cumulative 4.6 million followers.

The domino effect of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians’’’ success has continued with Disney Hyperion publishing, with the “Percy Jackson” books returning to the #1 spot on the New York Times Bestseller list for Middle Grade series following the series’ debut. For Disney Consumer Products, Hot Topic launched an assortment of apparel, while Barnes & Noble released a variety of stationery alongside the published books, inspired by the hit show. More pieces will continue to be revealed in the coming weeks from Hot Topic and Barnes & Noble.

Created by Rick Riordan and Jonathan E. Steinberg, season one of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is executive produced by Steinberg and Dan Shotz alongside Rick Riordan, Rebecca Riordan, The Gotham Group’s Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, Bert Salke, The Gotham Group’s Jeremy Bell and D.J. Goldberg, James Bobin, Jim Rowe, Monica Owusu-Breen, Anders Engström, Jet Wilkinson and Craig Silverstein. 

Season one of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” is now streaming on Disney+.



*Source: Internal data
**Source: Internal data based on views in its first 3 weeks streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
***Source: TikTok for Business
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Paul Russell reminds us to smile on new track “Say Cheese”

Tuesday, January 30, 2024

Paul Russell

New album, ‘Everything I Thought It Was’ to be released on March 15th

Today, rising rapper singer-songwriter Paul Russell is sharing new track “Say Cheese” out now via Arista Records. The official video will make its broadcast premiere on Wednesday, January 31st across MTV Live, mtvU, MTV’s Biggest Pop and the Paramount Times Square billboards. 

Russell’s signature feel good drive is written all over this one. On the inspiration behind it, he shares, “I wrote ‘Say Cheese’ on my birthday, a couple weeks after I quit my job and started traveling the world as a full-time artist. The song is meant to feel like a celebration - of life and of the fact that anything can happen. Take more photos so you can treasure those moments forever. So, ‘Say Cheese!’”

“Say Cheese” follows Russell’s highly acclaimed track “Lil Boo Thang'' which Billboard raved, “it is impossible to sit still when this infectious ditty comes on” and selected it on their 100 Best Songs of 2023: Staff Picks list. The song has been streamed over 250 million times globally, currently sits in the Top Twenty on Billboard’s Hot 100 and has been performed live across the world including appearances on Jimmy Kimmel LIVE!, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Today Show, Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve, France's NRJ Music Awards and more. On the radio end, the song landed at an impressive No. 5 at Top 40 Radio and was the No. 3 most played song across all radio formats in 2023. In the words of PopDust, “the Ivy League grad now has a hit on the Billboard charts and a career that’s taking off.”

Paul Russell’s “Say Cheese” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment/Columbia Records. Watch the lyric video here.
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Wellness Expo Offering Visitors to 'Go & Get Better' for Free

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024


An exhibit showcasing the health & wellness tourism products and services that are available in the market today – including beauty and anti-aging offerings from the country’s leading dermatology clinics and boutiques – is one of the main attractions of the Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 that will be held on January 26-28, 2024 at the SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City. 

Co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corporation. The three-day event will allow visitors to experience a number of health and wellness services of the exhibitors for free. For instance, the DOT booth will have trained hilot who can apply this age-old Filipino healing technique on visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Meanwhile, the DOH, which will have a five-section pavilion on the exhibition floor, will offer various consultation services. Section 1 will focus on dermatology and geriatrics, while Section 2 will provide nutrition and weight counseling. Healthcare professionals will man Section 3 which will offer HIV testing and counseling. Vaccination against flu will be available at Section 4, but this service will be limited to the first 115 visitors only per day. Section 5 will be for general consultations and for the monitoring of vital signs. Free medications may also be given to some visitors who need them.

This global initiative that aims to promote the Philippines as a health and wellness tourism destination will gather under one roof the stakeholders of the multi-trillion dollar health & wellness industry. These include award-winning wellness resorts to globally accredited hospitals that provide medical tourism packages, all the way to organic farms and specialty shops that offer a wide range of innovative, sustainable and eco-friendly health and wellness products and services.

With the theme “Go & Get Better,” this regenerative tourism-focused event will also feature a conference, business matching session, and various experiential activities. It is, in fact, the centerpiece of a global multimedia campaign that is designed to promote the country’s many health & wellness destinations, as well as its extensive array of health and wellness offerings.

As such, it will serve as the platform for launching an innovative television travel show-vlog that will allow viewers to explore the fascinating world of health & wellness amid the breathtaking natural wonders of the Philippines. Called OTW, the acronym for “On Travel & Wellness,” it will take viewers on a virtual trip to the country’s many tourist spots, while highlighting, at the same time, the importance of wellbeing, of keeping healthy and safe while leading an active lifestyle. Made up of 13 30-minute episodes, this show will feature stunning views of the picturesque beaches, magnificent dive sites, towering mountains and verdant woodlands that the Philippines is famous for. In addition, it will provide an in-depth look at the country’s diverse wellness practices – including traditional healing arts – through compelling anecdotes and discussions with regional experts. OTW will be aired on GMA 7’s GTV.

While Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 is primarily designed to promote the Philippines as a world-class health & wellness tourism destination, it will also put a special focus on catering to visitors who have become more health-conscious because of the pandemic, and who are looking for ways to live healthy and safely, yet still actively, in an environment where COVID-19 has become as common as the flu. 

Another new segment forming part of the event, a wellness festival called Masigabo, is especially dedicated to Filipino migrant workers to be held on the third day of the expo. The Masigabo Wellness Festival consists of programs and activities that pay tribute to the industry and sacrifices of Filipino migrants, both Filipino immigrants and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). More importantly, these activities are designed to make them feel better, relaxed and valued. Experts will also be around to provide them with tips on how to remain healthy and improve their well-being amid issues confronting them.

And in line with this year’s theme, and with so many Filipinos living, residing, or working abroad, Masigabo seeks to encourage our Filipino migrants to become our country's active tourism ambassadors to tell their friends overseas to come to the Philippines where they can “Go & Get Better!”.

The event is likewise supported by the Department of Agriculture, Department of Migrant Workers, Tourism Promotions Board, and Duty Free Philippines.

The Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024 is also made possible by the following:

Major Sponsors: Philippine Retirement Authority, Enjoy Health, Lifecore Bio Integrative Inc., Dean & Deluca Philippines, The Zen Institute, Conrad Manila, The Farm at San Benito, Nurture Wellness Village, Organique, CWC Interiors, Networld Hotel, Lanson Place, Pots for Plants, and Center for Healthy Aging and Regenerative Medicine (CHARM), Lanson Place, Networld Hotel, Lime Hotels & Resorts, 

Minor Sponsors: Food Club, Sonia’s Garden, Annapoorna, Happy Garden Café, Holistic Integrative Care Center Philippines (HICC), Aba Pardes, Annapoorma, King Fu Express, Piggy Papa, The Belle Salon, Speir Modern Residences

Event Partners: IQ Capture Printing Corporation, Ark of Dreams, Market Social, SMX Convention Center, DigitalCircles Marketing Services, and Phildiz Studios;

Media Partners: GMA Network, ABS-CBN Corporation, GMA 7 GTV, Aliw Channel 23, Asian Journal, Balikbayan Magazine, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Business Mirror, Daily Tribune, Digital Out Of Home Media (DOOH), Manila Standard, Rising Tigers, DZRH, Entrepinas TV, and Quezon City Performing Arts Development Foundation Inc.

Telco Partner: Globe 

Organizers and Event Managers: Mblessed Travel & Marketing, Inc. and Concept One Management Services.

From the creative concept of Mblessed Travel and Marketing, Inc., the Health & Wellness CONFEX is spearheaded by a team of seasoned event organizers, wellness advocates, travel and tours agencies, and marketing and communication professionals, and with the country's wellness guru, Cory Quirino, as its Executive Director.

For any inquiries or to participate at Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024, you can reach its Secretariat by email at secretariat@wellnessconfex.com or by phone at 09277227670 (attention: Sarah Timonera).

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