Get ready for a game changing premium running experience in the QC Eco-Run this November!

Get ready for a game changing premium running experience in the QC Eco-Run this November!

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Runners get ready! Quezon City is changing the game with its upcoming 10k, 5k and 2k QC Eco Run! Be one of the lucky runners who will get to be part of a premium race experience while doing your part to help preserve the environment.

Get the opportunity to experience running thru the Iconic Edsa-Quezon Ave Underpass whilst setting a new personal record along the straight road of Quezon Avenue. Partake the Clean Air Movement by planting the complimentary home garden seeds included in the race kit.

For your 10k run entry, get a premium event shirt, timing chip, race bib, finisher medal plus amazing giveaways and a chance to win raffle prizes! Experience this premiere Eco event for another game changing reg fee of only P550 for the 10km Run , P350 for the 5km and just P250 for 2km event! Level up the fun with the FREE Dance Fitness Marathon!

By uniting Fitness and Eco-Tourism initiatives, the QC Government creates a big impact in everyone’s day to day living. The QC Eco-Run sets the stage for a more active lifestyle for both fitness and run enthusiasts.

Happening on November 24, 2024 at the Quezon Memorial Circle, The QC Eco-Run highlights many first in the running community.

To further encourage everyone to contribute environmentally, the complimentary home garden seeds can be used to start your very own Home Garden and contribute to a cleaner air.

Furthermore, to abide by this environmental campaign, the use of reusable cups in lieu if disposable ones, will be implemented by our hydration partner.

Following protocol, all promotional collaterals such as banners will also be recycled as Eco bags, in alignment with the QC Tarpcycling Program.

The QC Eco-Run is presented by Globe Telecoms, Major sponsors - Ayala Land Estates, Vertis North and Manila Water.

Event partners include Starbucks Philippines, Mc Donalds, Jollibee, Skeen Clinic, Gold Seas Tuna and GCash

To register, visit: https://sites.google.com/view/qcecorun

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Denise Julia strikes new ground with charismatic EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2)

Denise Julia strikes new ground with charismatic EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2)

Monday, November 18, 2024

The 9-track record also features collaborations with Filipina R&B star DENȲ, Vietnamese-American star thuy, and R&B King of the Philippines Jay R

Denise Julia asserts her position as one of the most important voices in Filipino R&B with the release of her new EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), exclusively distributed by Sony Music Entertainment.

The 9-track release brings a new level of sophistication to her songcraft, touching on the familiar themes of her 2023 EP, while navigating wisdom and emotional honesty that go beyond her years.

“The stories are more real, the production has these rich new textures, and overall, it’s way more intimate,” says the prolific recording star. “This chapter is me opening up more about who I am, especially after coming out earlier this year. I think my writing’s gotten a little more reckless and freer—I’m just saying what I want to say without holding back."

Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2) embodies every aspect of Denise Julia: the real person stepping out of the limelight and online fanfare, stripped to the core with nothing but life lessons and bittersweet endings. On her latest EP, she candidly expressed the feelings of being vulnerable and in love, and putting on a brave face even when confronted by the difficult times.

Denise Julia's songwriting, characterized by unsparing confessionals that explore her sexuality and the messy nature of adolescent life choices, shines brighter this time around—a proof that there’s a silver lining in openness. In Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), the R&B/soul vixen doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out, but she knows that through her storytelling, she would inspire more women and queer folks to go with their gut feel and embrace the love and respect they truly deserve.

“I wanted to capture those bittersweet moments of love and self-discovery—the real stuff we don’t always put into words,” DJ adds. “My inspiration was a mix of personal experiences, growing into myself, and just the feelings people keep bottled up but wish they could say out loud."

Denise Julia’s latest EP draws a lot from classic R&B but doesn’t shy away from embracing its modern edge. Whether it’s a sensual bop straight from the Aaliyah/Brandy playbook or a confessional ballad that reveals moments of unfiltered fragility, the B.A.D. hitmaker knows when to lurch forward or snap back with her chameleonic but sultry singing style. For this EP, she hones her contemporary R&B sound with touches of soul and pop, going for something that is both nostalgic and fresh.

Some of the highlights of the EP include the focus track “sweet nothings,” a collaboration with Jay R, the R&B King of the Philippines. Propelling the narrative forward with transcendent moments of harmony and sensual bliss, the song tackles the honeymoon-phase feeling in a relationship where everything feels so good that you don’t want to let go.

According to the ‘Patron Saint of Situationships,’ as the fans often call her, working with Jay R was a dream come true. “He understands R&B on such a deep level, and having his influence really elevated the song. I feel like if you told young Denise that she would collaborate with the King of R&B in the future, she would have never believed you, so this is such a monumental thing for me. He’s the best at what he does, and I hope to take what I’ve learned from working with him into my own craft.”

Other notable collaborations in the EP were the DENȲ-assisted “don’t matter,” which showcases the duo’s effortlessly sultry side while maintaining their individuality throughout the process, and “twin flames,” which features Vietnamese-American artist thuy. Denise Julia considers both artists an inspiration, with each adding their own flavor to the material.

Here is the track list for Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2):

1. better than he does

2. sweet nothings (feat. Jay R)

3. thinkin’ bout you

4. twin flames (feat. thuy)

5. (boy it’s just) attraction

6. inhibitions

7. bet

8. there’s no way you’d want me back

9. don’t matter (feat. DENȲ)

Denise Julia’s new EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Denise Julia is also slated to headline her solo concert soon! For future announcements and details, visit www.denisejulia.com.

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Igloo on Driving Insurance Growth in the Philippines Through End-to-End Digitalization

Igloo on Driving Insurance Growth in the Philippines Through End-to-End Digitalization

Thursday, October 17, 2024

End-to-end digitalization of insurance is becoming a crucial strategy to boost insurance penetration in the Philippines, especially as recent data indicates a decline in coverage across the country. In 2023, insurance penetration in the Philippines sank to 1.6%, lower than the 1.73% recorded in 2022. This decline highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to make insurance more accessible and appealing to a broader population.

Igloo, a regional insurtech, addresses low insurance penetration by leveraging technology and partnerships to streamline operations across the entire insurance value chain–from insurance and intermediaries to consumers. By digitalizing processes throughout the ecosystem, Igloo enables faster, more efficient services, seamlessly integrating insurance into everyday digital interactions such as e-commerce and travel bookings.

Empowering Intermediaries with a Digital Platform

One key aspect of this digital transformation is the creation of digital platforms for intermediaries. Traditionally, insurance intermediaries rely on manual processes from onboard customers to settling claims, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Digital tools allow intermediaries to streamline the entire process from customer onboarding to claim settlement. These tools help manage customer information, assess needs, and complete transactions faster and more accurately. As a result, intermediaries can focus more on building relationships with current and potential clients, rather than being burdened by administrative tasks.

Ignite introduced Igloo, a digital platform that helps insurance intermediaries sell more efficiently. Key features include a user-friendly interface for faster browsing, a quick quote system for instant premium calculations, secure payment processing, and tools for team and data management to simplify reporting. It also tracks referral fees in real time, depositing them directly into bank accounts. Launched in Vietnam in 2022, Indonesia in 2023, and now in the Philippines, Igloo offers 42 products across 9 categories, including Travel, Pet, and Motor protection. It was awarded Mobile App of the Year - Vietnam at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024.

Facilitating a Seamless Digital Experience through Embedded Insurance

Igloo is transforming the insurance landscape by providing a seamless, end-to-end digital experience through embedded insurance. As an insurtech platform, it enables businesses to integrate insurance products into their platforms, facilitating seamless policy applications, purchase, and claims management. This reduces friction for both insurance providers and distributors, streamlining complex tasks such as underwriting, policy issuance, and claims processing, making the entire system more efficient and user-friendly.

Igloo partners with online platforms like Lazada and Shopee, as well as payment services like DANA in Indonesia and GCash in the Philippines, and retail chains like Circle K in Vietnam, to develop customized and embedded insurance products that integrate smoothly into digital experiences. In addition, telecom companies like Smart, consumer finance platforms such as Skyro and Salmon, and B2B MSME enabler Growsari also collaborate with Igloo in the Philippines to expand access to insurance across different sectors. This enables customers to purchase insurance directly through these platforms with minimal hassle. As a result, consumers can easily discover, evaluate, and buy insurance products in just a few clicks, making insurance a natural part of their everyday transactions. Consequently, securing coverage for travel, electronics, or e-commerce purchases becomes nearly invisible yet highly convenient.

This frictionless approach allows customers to opt-in with just a few clicks, which improves conversion rates. It also appeals to those who might not have initially considered insurance but recognize its value when offered conveniently.

Bringing Insurance Closer to Consumers, Digitally

Building on its success in embedded insurance and business-to-agent models, Igloo has soft-launched a direct-to-consumer platform in Indonesia, igloo.co.id, where users can explore insurance products like motorcycle, car, pet, and travel coverage from top insurers.

Introducing these platforms is essential for improving insurance accessibility and expanding market penetration. Igloo’s direct-to-consumer platform streamlines the insurance process, enabling users to easily compare products, understand coverage, and manage policies in one place. This approach not only resolves common transparency issues but also empowers consumers to make informed decisions. Digitalization, in this case, increases accessibility, boosts efficiency, and builds trust, ultimately driving higher adoption rates and fostering a more inclusive insurance ecosystem.

As the Philippines experiences a decline in insurance penetration, digitalization offers a clear solution to reverse this trend. By simplifying processes for intermediaries and customers alike, insurers can eliminate barriers to entry. The growing prevalence of embedded insurance and direct-to-consumer platforms also exposes consumers to more coverage options, increasing the likelihood of purchasing insurance and improving overall financial security.

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Calauag Crab Craze: M Lhuillier Joins the Alimango Festival Celebration

Calauag Crab Craze: M Lhuillier Joins the Alimango Festival Celebration

Friday, September 20, 2024

The coastal town of Calauag has transformed once again into a vibrant canvas of color and joy as the annual Alimango Festival, also known as the Katang Festival, is celebrated to pay homage to the town's abundant mud crab population. This year, M Lhuillier, a leading financial services provider, proudly joined the festivities.

The highlight of the festival was the procession featuring the iconic "Higanteng Alimango" (Giant Mud Crab) mascot. As the towering creature led the way through the streets, the crowd was captivated by the infectious energy of the dancers, singers, and participants. 

M Lhuillier's involvement in the Alimango Festival showcased their commitment to supporting the local community and its rich cultural heritage. The company's representatives proudly marched alongside the town's mayor, amidst the cheering crowds of tourists from near and far.

M Lhuillier, recognized as the “Tulay ng PaMLyang Pilipino” (Bridge of the Filipino People), expressed their gratitude for being part of the event, reflecting their strong ties with the community. "It is a true honor and privilege to be acknowledged as part of this wonderful festival," said a M Lhuillier representative. 

The dedication and efforts of the M Lhuillier team were instrumental in making this year's Alimango Festival a resounding success.

The Alimango Festival is more than just a celebration of food. It manifests the deep connection between the people of Calauag and their natural resources. The mud crab, once a humble catch, has become a symbol of the town's identity and a source of pride for its residents.

To learn more about M Lhuillier's commitment to give back to the community and the charitable activities they support, visit mlcares.mlhuillier.com

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Personal Collection wins big at 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, listed among PH best employers

Personal Collection wins big at 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, listed among PH best employers

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Personal Collection (PC), one of the leading direct selling and consumer goods company, has earned recognitions at the recent 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, demonstrating its dedication to sustainable practices and continued product innovation to better the lives of Filipinos.

PC bagged a Gold Stevie Award in the Social Impact Company category for its #GreenLifeGreatLife movement, serving as the anchor for its sustainable operations. These practices entail a steadfast commitment to regulatory compliance and strategic innovations in manufacturing and logistics.

Aside from transitioning to biodegradable packaging, PC has been implementing initiatives such as minimizing electricity and water consumption, enhancing distribution efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, and lessening carbon emissions, among others. Moreover, the company has been taking significant steps to manage plastic waste, surpassing its 2023 goal by co-processing over 98 tons of plastic, in compliance with the Philippines’ Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022.

Additionally, PC continuously delivers groundbreaking solutions for Filipino families through innovation. This dedication inspired its Bronze Stevie Award for Excellence in Innovation in Consumer Products for its White Dove with DreamScentz™ Technology, its Baby Care Line.

Proven to provide HIMBING-BANGO for babies, the DreamScentz™ Technology incorporated in White Dove is a revolutionary fragrance that is clinically proven to help give longer and more restful sleep.

“We're deeply honored to receive awards for White Dove with DreamScentzTM Technology and our #GreenLifeGreatLife Movement. These recognitions belong to our employees, dealers, partners, and customers. Thank you for believing in our innovative efforts and our mission to make a difference now and for future generations,” Chairman of Environment, Social & Governance Committee Leejay Evangelista said during his acceptance speech at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards Night at the Shangri-La The Fort.

Recognized as one of the Philippines’ best employers

As the company advances its eco-friendly practices and innovation, PC simultaneously fosters an inclusive and empowering workplace for every Filipino worker. Recently, PC entered the list of The Philippines’ Best Employers in 2024, conducted by Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista.

"Part of our values here at PC is people development. We are passionate about helping our employees grow and reach their fullest potential. Because we want them to also reach the "Great Life,” Senior Vice President of HROD and Chief People Officer Ruby Jaucian emphasized.

Dedicated to enhancing the overall employee experience, PC has been implementing initiatives with its people's well-being and growth in mind. These include extending health benefits and group life insurance to employees (including LGBTQIA+), as well as streamlining internal processes for increased efficiency.

The Best Employers list of the Philippine Daily Inquirer in partnership with Statista, assesses employer attractiveness based on tens of thousands of evaluations, opinions from thousands of employees, and scores from hundreds of companies.

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Boehringer Ingelheim and Sun Life strengthens partnership to make quality healthcare education more accessible to Filipinos

Boehringer Ingelheim and Sun Life strengthens partnership to make quality healthcare education more accessible to Filipinos

Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines and Sun Life Philippines expand their partnership with one goal in mind: healthier and fuller lives for Filipinos. 

Sun Life of Canada (Philippines), Inc. and Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines), inc. recently renewed their expanded partnership at the Sun Life Centre in Bonifacio Global City. Designed to improve health outcomes and deliver greater value to Filipinos, the partnership now covers chronic kidney disease (CKD) awareness programs.

With more than 7 million Filipinos affected by CKD , and the disease being among the leading causes of sickness and death in the Philippines, it is important that strategic and meaningful partnerships are forged to make a stronger impact for Filipinos. Sun Life and Boehringer Ingelheim recognize this problem as a trusted name in financial security and a global innovative leader in healthcare, respectively.

Mr. Ermel Teodoro, Interim General Manager Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines, stated that “We collaborate with partners who we see have a common goal in making a real difference and a lasting impact to the lives of Filipinos in patient advocacy and disease awareness now, and for generations to come”.

Sun Life Philippines Country Head and CEO Benedict Sison said, “Since the beginning of our partnership in 2022, Sun Life and Boehringer Ingelheim have remained steadfast in driving towards our shared goal of empowering Filipinos to live healthier, fuller lives.”

The scope of Sun Life and Boehringer’s partnership programs includes disease awareness campaigns on common respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to rare respiratory conditions like pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung diseases. There are also non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, which are two of the primary conditions that often lead to CKD.

“This renewed tie-up allows us to go beyond providing financial products,” adds Sison. “By working together with Boehringer Ingelheim, we can empower the nation to take a more proactive approach in protecting their overall health.”

Teodoro also stated that obesity and sedentary lifestyle are also high risks for CKD, “40% of Filipinos are suffering from obesity. Sedentary lifestyles, – one with limited movements or activities, can lead you to obesity and therefore, chronic kidney disease. ”

Now that the partnership has expanded to cover CKD, Boehringer hopes to reach more Filipinos and raise awareness on the risks of CKD because according to Teodoro, the symptoms for this disease will only show up in the late stages when CKD has severely progressed . The best preventive measure against CKD is to get tested for it regularly. There is a simple 2-step screening process to check kidney health. First is the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eFGR), a blood test that measures the waste called creatinine in your blood; Second is the urine albumin-creatinine ratio (uACR) test that uses a urine sample to measure albumin, or protein level present in your urine.

Making healthy lifestyle decisions is a must, but there’s only so much we can do when there are inevitable factors such as family history and aging. That’s why getting tested regularly is the best way to keep your kidneys healthy. Teodoro reminds everyone to “let your dependents, friends, and family know about the silent killer that is CKD. Reach out to your doctor as soon as possible and bring a loved one or two”.

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Streamlining Logistics with ML Moves: A Game-Changer in Convenience

Streamlining Logistics with ML Moves: A Game-Changer in Convenience

Thursday, May 2, 2024

In doing business, efficiency and convenience are paramount, especially when it comes to logistics. Recognizing this, M Lhuillier introduces ML Moves, a comprehensive service designed to simplify shipping and handling processes for both individuals and businesses. Here are the various facets of ML Moves and how it revolutionizes the way we send and receive packages:

Walk-in Transactions

With ML Moves, sending packages has never been easier. Customers can simply drop off their items at any M Lhuillier branch offering the service. Upon arrival, the staff assists in the inspection, facilitates the necessary paperwork, and collects the corresponding fee. Whether it's a local delivery or an international shipment, ML Moves ensures a seamless process, leveraging partnerships with trusted local courier services and DHL Express for global destinations.

E-Commerce Solutions

ML Moves isn't just about sending packages; it also enhances the e-commerce experience, particularly for online shopping platforms like Lazada and Shopee.

Returns: Gone are the days of fretting over return shipping fees. Approved return or refund requests can be conveniently processed by dropping off the item at any M Lhuillier branch. The package is then swiftly returned to the seller, sparing customers from additional expenses.

Branch Pick-Up: Tired of waiting for deliveries at home? Opt for branch pick-up and collect your packages at your convenience from the nearest M Lhuillier branch. No more missed deliveries or lengthy waits. Plus, Shopee customers in Metro Manila have the added perk of paying cash on delivery (COD) at a specific pick-up branch, giving them ample time to prepare for payment.

Sellers' Drop-Off: M Lhuillier extends its convenience to sellers as well. Selected Lazada and Shopee sellers can utilize designated M Lhuillier branches as drop-off points for their parcels. Couriers from these platforms then periodically collect the parcels for onward delivery, streamlining the entire process for sellers.

ML Moves represents a paradigm shift in logistics, combining speed, efficiency, and convenience into a single, innovative solution. Whether you're an individual sending a package to a loved one or a business fulfilling orders for your customers, ML Moves simplifies the entire process. It also underscores M Lhuillier's commitment to being the bridge between families, businesses, and their logistical needs, reaffirming its position as the "Tulay ng PaMLyang Pilipino" (Bridge of the Filipino Family). Embrace the future of logistics with ML Moves and experience a new level of convenience like never before.

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

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

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

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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