Five New Designs Revealed for PEACE FOR ALL Charity T-Shirt Project

Friday, March 01, 2024

UNIQLO PEACE FOR ALL

Spring collection features fresh, playful designs from beloved character Moomin and artist Jason Polan, available from March 15

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today announces the worldwide release of five new designs for its ongoing PEACE FOR ALL charity T shirt project. The project features T-shirts with designs expressing a wish for peace, provided by volunteer collaborators with close ties to UNIQLO. All profits from PEACE FOR ALL T-shirt sales are donated to international humanitarian organizations.* These new items will be available from Friday, March 15.

The newest PEACE FOR ALL collection features five fresh, playful designs from an eclectic group of contributors.

  1. Beloved Finnish character Moomin appears on a pink T-shirt, actively painting the word "PEACE" with a brush. 
  2. Japanese anatomist Takeshi Yoro, author of best-selling book Baka no Kabe ("The Wall of Fools"), whose design features a photo of his much-loved cat Maru accompanied by the phrase 'Hope means we can change.'
  3. The late, great New York artist Jason Polan, whose cheeky illustration pops out from the pocket of the T-shirt.
  4. Legendary calligrapher Hakujyu Kuiseko, with a striking design and Japanese text that reads 'If you expand the circle, it's a world. If you shrink it, it's an ego.'
  5. Afghan-born American novelist, once a refugee himself and now a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, Khaled Hosseini, author of the bestseller The Kite Runner, whose elegant design states that 'Peace is our highest good'.

* UNIQLO parent company Fast Retailing contributes 100% of profits from the sale of PEACE FOR ALL T-shirts (equivalent to 20% of the selling price) to three international aid organizations providing humanitarian assistance to people impacted by poverty, discrimination, violence, and conflict. Donations are made equally to UNHCR (the UN refugee agency), Save the Children, and Plan International through their representatives in Japan.

Donations surpass 970 million yen

UNIQLO launched the PEACE FOR ALL project on June 17, 2022, and to date has featured designs from 36 contributors locally (including this most recent collection). As of the end of January 2024, more than 3.2 million T-shirts have been sold worldwide, raising more than JPY 970 million (equivalent to approximately PHP 361.9 million using the February 28, 2024 exchange rate of PHP 1 = JPY 2.68). Donations from the PEACE FOR ALL project have been used to support various charitable projects, including emergency humanitarian assistance to protect the lives of displaced people around the world, ensuring children around the world impacted by conflict and disaster to be protected from harm, and helping to prevent early marriage.

Read More

“Forty-gether Kasama ang Paborito mong Kapitbahay": 7-Eleven celebrates 40 years in the country

Thursday, February 29, 2024


Ring in the bells, because it’s our paboritong kapitbahay’s anniversary!

7-Eleven, the Philippines’ leading convenience store, has always been a go-to destination for essentials, quick snacks, and affordable meals for all Filipinos. This familiarity is thanks to the delightful years spent with the 7-Eleven community spanning over four decades. 

What started as one store in Kamias cor EDSA, Quezon City in 1984 gradually grew to nine humble branches in 1989, now has over 3,700 stores nationwide, celebrating its 40th anniversary. 

Over the years, each branch has become a community hub for shared experiences—meeting landmarks, date places, or just regular hangout spots. 


In those four decades, 7-Eleven also came up with iconic treats such as Big Bite, Slurpee, and GULP to treat everyone’s taste buds to a delicious, yet affordable delight. They also partnered with reputable brands such as Romantic Baboy, Lugang Café, Manam, Pancake House, and so many others to bring quality meals more available for all. 

Aside from these, the brand also evolved to be a trusted digital services provider with its CLIQQ app wherein customers can purchase items cashless, earn points, and more. ATMs are also present at most branches so customers can easily withdraw or inquire their balances as well as e-wallet services for top-ups and bills payment. 7-Eleven is loved all over the country because they have been consistently providing that signature convenience as the country’s paboritong kapitbahay. 


To mark this momentous 40th year, and as a nod to the vibrant community that grewt over the decades, 7-Eleven is celebrating being forty-gether kasama ang paborito mong kapitbahay with exciting promos and discounts. 

Kickstarting the festivities is a sweet treat from City Cafe, where coffee-loving customers can sip and savor a medium cup for only P40 on February 29, 2024. Those with a penchant for the iconic Big Bite will also appreciate a delectable P10 discount from Tender Juicy when they pair a Big Bite TJ hotdog with a red drink (GULP medium, C2 Apple 355ml, and Sting Strawberry 320ml) from February 14 to March 12, 2024. Lastly, 7-Eleven loyal customers can unlock a treasure trove of savings with up to 50% off on selected beverages, and snacks such as Kopiko Lucky Day PET 180ml on February 29 only; Lays Cheddar & Sour Cream 170g and Gardenia Chocolate Muffin on February 29 to March 2. Customers can also expect big savings in other items such as Snail White Whipp Soap 100g, Absolut Vodka 700ml and Selecta Pint Double Dutch 450ml (BUY 2, SAVE P40) until March 19, 2024. Truly, nothing beats spending milestones together because 7-Eleven makes every trip to the store guaranteed tipid and sulit. 

As the celebrations roll in, the 40th anniversary celebrations are set to amplify all there is to love about the brand that everyone grew up with. The 7-Eleven community can expect year-round thrilling payday sale events and exciting e-raffle promos where they can bag incredible prizes like dreamy travel opportunities, latest gadgets, and so many more. 

Cheers to 40 years with 7-Eleven and like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok, and visit our website www.7-eleven.com.ph for more information.
Read More

Add a dewy, gorgeous flush with Ever Bilena’s Pillow Pop Liquid Blush

Ever Bilena Pillow Pop Liquid Blush


There's nothing more confidence-boosting than a fresh-looking, lit-from-within glow. The newest secret to this look? Liquid blushes! From enhancing your face shape to bringing out your cheekbones, blush lifts your makeup like no other. Luckily, achieving just that is now so easy, thanks to Ever Bilena’s Pillow Pop Liquid Blush which gives a natural-looking, stunning touch to your next makeup look.

This liquid blush is a gel-based liquid color that comes in four stunning and wearable shades: Rouge (soft magenta), Toast of New York (warm brick red), Fresno (fresh watermelon), and Raspberry (rich berry). Aside from adding a dash of color to your cheeks, it also helps nourish your skin with the moisturizing effects of Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E.

While this easy-to-blend pillow pop is meant as a blush, it can also be used on the lips, lids, and cheeks – perfect for everyday use and for beauty enthusiasts who love multi-use products. And since it is inspired by the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, it can definitely give that extra premium touch to your glow-up.

Applying this liquid blush is a breeze. Apply one dot of the liquid blush on your cheek, and blend it up toward the temples to give your face a more natural flush. Dab as needed to diffuse color, using a damp sponge, a blending brush, or your fingers! To boost your look, you can also blend out the blush towards your hairline for a dramatic, naturally-flushed effect.

Look fresh and gorgeously flushed in no time with Ever Bilena Pillow Pop Liquid Blush available for only PHP275.00! Ever Bilena products can be purchased on their official Shopee and Lazada stores, Watsons branches nationwide, and all leading department stores nationwide. Check out Ever Bilena on Facebook(@everbilenacosmetics), Instagram (@everbilenaofficial), Lazada or Shopee. Be sure to follow the official hashtags #EverBilena #ForEveryBeauty for more information.
Read More

Experience summer thrills with realme this 3.3 Sale


realme shares irresistible 3.3 deals as the ultimate smartphone buddy for summer entertainment and exploration

While traveling locally has always been a hobby for few, more destinations closer to Manila are now becoming prime summer getaways for the youth due to their accessibility. Here are some destinations and activities that they can enjoy, combined with the perfect realme devices that provide endless entertainment and inspiration wherever they may be. To maximize this summer, the Squad can even get their hands on select devices at a discounted price this upcoming 3.3 Sale on realme’s official stores in Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok.

Explore the Discovery Trail at Masungi Georeserve

Just a short distance away from Manila, the Masungi Georeserve in Tanay, Rizal provides a quiet escape from the city. This natural sanctuary offers a Discovery Trail fit for budding hiking enthusiasts. While on the trail, capture the perfect moment amidst impressive rock formations with the 108MP 3x In-Sensor Zoom Camera of realme C67. The Redefined Champion features an Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) that allows it to catch various wildlife that hides within the trail’s rustic pathways without any blur.

Movie night for two under the stars at WK Forest Reserve and Campgrounds

Aim for a unique and more romantic take on movie night by camping out at the WK Forest Reserve and Campgrounds in Tanay, Rizal. Use the realme Pad (4GB+64GB) LTE as it is equipped with a 10.4” WUXGA+ Immersive Display and Dolby Atmos Quad speakers to set the tone and create that special moment under the stars. Plus, the realme Pad (4GB+64GB) LTE carries a 7100mAh battery that allows video playback for up to 12 hours, perfect for a romantic evening without any interruptions.

Go on a culinary adventure in Binondo

Summer isn’t just about road trips and beaches. The streets of Binondo, Manila offer travelers a variety of food choices that is an adventure in itself. Coupled with the small and busy walkways in every corner of the world’s oldest Chinatown, Binondo is one of the best subjects for aspiring food and urban photographers. In capturing the food and culture of Binondo, the realme C67’s 6.7” 90Hz FHD+ Display allows for a better appreciation of photos and videos. To guarantee better viewing even under the broad daylight, users have the option to set the display to Extra Brightness mode for 950 nits of brightness. Moreover, its lightweight 7.59mm Ultra Slim Design also allows for greater portability when navigating through Binondo’s crowded streets.

Solo bike tour around Intramuros

The walled city of Intramuros, Manila offers the perfect setting to get lost on one’s own and discover hidden gems. Put a pair of realme Buds T300 and rent a bamboo bike to add a soundtrack while exploring cobbled streets filled with historical monuments and buildings. With its 12.4mm Dynamic Bass Driver and 360-degree Spatial Audio, the realme Buds T300 provides a seamless audio experience perfect for solo journeys.

realme welcomes summer with 3.3 Sale

Summer is always the perfect time to discover something new. Whether it’s visiting the usual spots, or giving new destinations and activities a chance, realme helps the Squad prepare for the summer adventures ahead with its 3.3 sale offers.

From March 3-7, the Squad can head over to realme official Lazada for a chance to get select realme products for as low as P33 along with vouchers and free shipping. Make sure to redeem vouchers to get the lowest checkout price possible.

realme Lazada 3.3 Sale (March 3-7 only)

Item

SRP

Total Checkout Price

realme C67 (8GB+128GB)

P9,999

P7,799

realme C67 (8GB+256GB)

P10,999

P8,699

realme Pad (4GB+64GB) LTE

P14,990

P6,990

realme Buds T300

P1,599

P1,104

 

As for those who prefer to shop via realme official Shopee, select products will be available up to 67% OFF from March 3-6 only. Enjoy freebies, Mega Discount Vouchers, Free Shipping Discount, and flexible payment option through ShopeePay Later.

realme Shopee 3.3 Sale (March 3-6 only)

Item

SRP

Total Checkout Price

realme C67 (8GB+128GB)

P9,999

P7,699

realme C67 (8GB+256GB)

P10,999

P8,699

realme Pad (4GB+64GB) LTE

P13,999

P6,440

realme Buds T300

P1,599

P1,089

 

Starting today, Feb 27, until March 3, the Squad can grab discounts on realme TikTok Shop.

realme TikTok Shop 3.3 Mega Sale (March 3-6 only)

Item

SRP

Total Checkout Price

realme C67 (8GB+128GB)

P9,999

P7,319

realme C67 (8GB+256GB)

P10,999

P8,099

realme Pad (4GB+64GB) LTE

P14,990

P7,999

realme Buds T300

P1,599

P1,134

 

To learn more about realme’s latest updates, visit the realme official website and follow realme on Facebook.
Read More

Smart ignites UP Fair 2024

UP Fair 2024

Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), the wireless arm of PLDT, lit up the University of the Philippines Diliman’s (UPD) annual UP Fair, a week-long advocacy-led music event with the theme “Paalabin ang tinig”. As platinum sponsor, Smart added spark to ignite the voice of the youth.

“We acknowledge the burning passion of the youth to express their unique individualities and to engage society in issues that are important to them. As we continue to embrace the digital world, Smart supports the youth’s journey with products and services that power their dreams,” said Melvin Consunji-Nubla, FVP and Head of Go-To-Market and Subscriber Management at Smart.

Smart set up a booth where “Iskolars ng Bayan” experienced the carrier’s superior mobile connectivity. With Smart’s strong signal across the UPD expanse, it was the perfect opportunity for students to switch to the carrier through the Smart eSIM. First to roll out the technology for prepaid and post-paid subscribers in the Philippines, Smart eSIM is available for both Apple and Android devices.

Iskolars ng Bayan

UP students also availed of the Smart Bro Pocket WiFi. Powered by Smart, the device is the students’ perfect companion for learning, allowing them to connect to the internet anytime, anywhere. And with the university covering more than a thousand acres of real estate in Quezon City, state scholars need a device to help them go online for academic requirements like research, online meetings, and submission of papers, wherever in the campus they may be.

The booth also offered opportunities for subscribers to take home exclusive Smart merchandises. Those who topped up their accounts with at least P99 worth of credits were able to join the raffle for Smart UP Fair shirts. Lucky subscribers who downloaded the Smart App also had the opportunity to win upcycled canvas tote bags from Smart.

The Smart App is the latest mobile application from Smart that lets customers keep track of their accounts, top up their credits, and subscribe to promos that empower them to live more today. It’s the go-to platform for the Smart youth who looks for value-packed load packages to pursue his passions.

Clarisse Sumulong, a fourth year Computer Science student, said the internet played a huge role in honing her photography skills, “I have no formal training in photography. I learned how to take pictures through video tutorials.”

Smart also enables the youth to stay connected. Smart covers 97% of the country’s population with 3G, 4G/LTE, and 5G services.

“Smart has always been reliable for me. In areas where WiFi connections aren’t stable, I can usually turn on my Smart mobile data to access the internet and open online resources,” said Gabby Baldoz, a fourth year Tourism major.

Smart empowers the youth to live more today with digital products and solutions that enable them to pursue their passions. Sponsoring student-led activities also underscores the company’s commitment to deliver meaningful connections and experiences for the academic community and is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal No.4 on Quality Education.
Read More

Cool down this summer with Beko as your cooling companion

Beko air conditioners

Summer is just around the corner. While the sun’s out for a perfect beach getaway, it also means a need for more cooling breeze and comfort to bust the heat. Staying focused and being in the right state of mind for study, relaxation, and chores can be difficult if it is sweltering at home. 

Good thing there is Beko as our cooling companion this coming summer season. Durable, stylish, and cost-efficient, Beko air conditioners bring better air quality, humidity, and cooler temperatures. And with The “Beko state of mind”, everyone in the family can be more productive and accomplish the things they need to do with coolness and comfort right in their own homes. 

“Air conditioning in every space is essential, especially in a tropical country like the Philippines. On days when the heat is at its peak, air conditioners provide comfort to help bring in the concentration as it controls the humidity in the environment and helps avoid dehydration,” shared Gürhan Günal, Beko's Country Director in the Philippines. 

“The Beko state of mind means inspiring Filipinos to experience a more convenient way of living through European-style and good quality product lines so they save time and resources that they can use for the people and things that matter to them. Our air conditioners have a 5-star energy rating, are cost-efficient, and powerful, making it the perfect cooling companion this summer," Günal added.

The BSEOG 090/BSEOG 091 is a split-type air conditioner with a capacity of 1HP that is perfect for cooling up small spaces such as apartments and small rooms. It has jet cool, dehumidifying, and automatic temperature control features for the utmost comfort. For a window-type option, the BPVOW 090 has a 1HP capacity with energy-efficient and cost-saving inverter technology for optimal cooling.

The BSEOG 120/BSEOG 121 is a 1.5HP split-type inverter air conditioner that is ideal for homes with a terrace and bigger apartments. It has 5 fan speed steps, automatic up & down air direction, and up to 24 hours of timer for more control on the level of coolness within the environment.

Beko air conditioners

For bigger homes, the BSEOG 180/ BSEOG 181 is a SplitType AC HomeWhiz ProSmart Inverter Compressor with 2.0HP capacity, providing powerful cooling performance and quiet operation that can breeze through wide spaces, while the BPVOW 120 is a window-type inverter air conditioner with a capacity of 1.5HP that has rapid and efficient cooling with controls to personalize your comfort.

These Beko air conditioners are made for the long term and make life a breeze. With technologies that translate to reliability and durability, feel the Beko state of mind even under the summer heat.

For more information about Beko in the Philippines, visit beko.ph and follow @bekoph on Facebook and Instagram.

Beko appliances are available at 1st Megasaver, Abenson, AC Marketing, AllHome, Anson's, Appliance Centrum, Asian Home, Automatic Centre, BHF, Echo Electrical, Fair N Square, Fiesta Appliance Center, Fonts Home appliances, GB Prime, Gloria Bazar, Great World, J Marketing, Jack Trading, JVValeroso Marketing, K-Alwin'z, Lazada, Lucky 4 City Appliances, Magic Appliance, Manhattan Appliance, Mike’s Department Store, NB Marketing, Ocampo's Megastore, Our Builders, Plusign Home, POS Marketing, Pricewise, RJ Homes, Robinsons Appliances, Royal Star, RS David Marketing, Savers Appliances, SaveYour Home, Shopee, Skytech Appliance, Solidmark, SM Appliance, SVC, Tiongsan, United Motoaliance, VPR Marketing, and Western Appliance.

Read More

UNIQLO Philippines arrives at Venice Grand Canal Mall, opens new store with week-long promos

Monday, February 26, 2024

UNIQLO Venice Grand Canal Mall

Mark your calendars as global apparel retailer UNIQLO opens its newest store at the ground floor, San Marco wing of Venice Grand Canal Mall in Taguig City on March 1 with week-long special promos and exclusive offers. 

From limited-edition UNIQLO novelty items to free parking, there are tons of exciting rewards that await the first shoppers in the new UNIQLO Philippines store in Mckinley Hill, Fort Bonifacio. Make sure to take advantage of all these deals, available only during the new store’s first week.

Be the first in line to avail the exclusive offers on March 1 to 7 on items ranging from everyday casual wear like the UNIQLO U Crew Neck T-Shirt (from PHP 590 to PHP 390) and the Easy Cargo Pants (from PHP 1990 to PHP 1490). Everyone's favorite, the Round Mini Shoulder Bag (from PHP 790 to PHP 590), is up for grabs, as well as its UNIQLO Marimekko variation. Be ready for summer with these essential Linen items like the Linen Blend Camisole Dress (from PHP 2490 to PHP 1990) and the Linen Blend Easy Pants (from PHP 990 to PHP 790).

Get to collect special UNIQLO pieces during the opening week of UNIQLO Venice Grand Canal. For every minimum-spend of P2,500 on LifeWear items from March 1 to 7, you earn one free UNIQLO Limited Edition Novelty Item through an exciting arcade game of pachinko. Each slot at the bottom of the pachinko board represents the novelty item up for grabs, ranging from a laptop bag to a tote bag, a cooler compartment, a mini-luggage case, and a shoe bag.


More surprises are in store for early-bird shoppers at UNIQLO Venice Grand Canal. From March 1 to 3, the first 100 customers get to enjoy a free Glazed Raised Donut from Randy’s Donuts. Meanwhile, from March 4 to 7, the first 100 customers will receive one P100-off voucher from Grab Philippines.

Finally, get free parking when you shop at UNIQLO Venice Grand Canal from March 1 to 3. For every single receipt with a minimum-spend of P500, you will be given a voucher that renders parking at Venice Grand Canal Mall free for the first three hours.

With all these exciting deals, schedule your next UNIQLO shopping spree at the it’s new store at the ground floor, San Marco Wing of Venice Grand Canal Mall in Mckinley Hill starting March 1

Stay on top of the UNIQLO store opening date announcements and other updates by following UNIQLO Philippines on Facebook and @uniqlophofficial on Instagram. Visitwww.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ for more information.

For more updates, please visit UNIQLO Philippines’ social media accounts, Facebook (facebook.com/uniqlo.ph), Twitter (twitter.com/uniqloph), Instagram (Instagram.com/uniqlophofficial), Twitter (tiktok/com/uniqlophofficial) and UNIQLO Philippines’ website at uniqlo.com.

Download the UNIQLO App via Google Play Store or Apple Store, or visit and shop from UNIQLO online store at UNIQLO.com/ph.
Read More

A first in Gen San: Leading skin care clinic The Skin and Body Science introduces Venus Legacy face and body treatments



The Skin and Body Science is pleased to introduce Venus Legacy™ face and body treatments to General Santos City. 

“Venus Legacy™ delivers safe and effective treatments that slim the body, smoothen out cellulite, improve the appearance of sagging skin. It also reduces fine lines and wrinkles on the face and body comfortably with no downtime,” said Dr. Catherine Balay, owner of The Skin and Body Science. 

Safe, comfortable and no downtime

As a person gets older, their body starts to produce less collagen and store more fat—eventually leading to leading to wrinkles, cellulite, and other signs of aging. The Venus Legacy™ machine uses heat to naturally boost collagen production, which lifts and tighten the skin. Venus Legacy™ is:

Safe for all skin tones

Radio frequency skin-tightening technology is proven safe and effective for all skin tones, even darker complexions.

Extremely comfortable

Enjoy a relaxing treatment experience that delivers noticeable results.

No downtime

Return to your daily routine immediately after your Venus Legacy™ treatments.


Experience the Venus Legacy only at The Skin in Body Science, the only skin care clinic to have this device in General Santos City and the SOCCSKSARGEN region. For inquiries, patients can call 0917-1598727, (083) 500-7849 or message them on Instagram (@tsbsph) and Facebook.
Read More

Bite Into Milky Goodness with Milkana Creamy Lollipops

Milkana Creamy Lollipops

Check out the new fun film about these great ‘baon’ treats!

As 2024 continues to unlock fresh beginnings and possibilities, kids and their families again face an exciting new chapter – back to school. This activity-filled time provides an excellent opportunity for parents to ensure that their young ones are ready to make the most of their experiences as they resume learning.

As kids happily get geared up, parents are invited to consider and make more mindful choices that support their children’s active bodies and hungry minds – and for this purpose, making their kids’ “baon” more delicious, nutritious, and fun gets top marks.

During this period, Milkana, Savencia Fromage & Dairy’s premium international brand, encourages and inspires parents to make healthy and delicious snacking a part of their kids’ daily routines. 

With all the tempting junk food and sweets that kids can consume during school mealtimes, parents could be worried about their eating preferences. Milkana wants to share with these parents that more nutritious and enjoyable options are available, like the brand’s Creamy Lollipops, launched last August 2023. 

Milkana recently released a fun film about their new and nutritious Creamy Lollipops, which can be viewed today online – including on Facebook and Instagram.

These fun and delicious bite-sized dairy snacks are packed with milk proteins containing essential amino acids, calcium, and vitamin D, which builds stronger bones. They’re also made with zero preservatives, giving parents peace of mind that they’re serving honest-to-goodness “baon” snacks to their kids.

With Milkana Creamy Lollipops, there’s always a fantastic flavor to love and share. Kids can enjoy four variants: Fruit Heart Strawberry, the main variant with natural fruit filling, Yogurt N Fruits, Mixed Berries, and Milky Ice Cream – all adapted to their tastes. 

Since the Creamy Lollipops were launched, many Filipino kids, and even their moms and dads, have enjoyed them and experienced their benefits. Coming with cool animal designs and practical packaging, eating them is fun, easy, and hassle-free. All it takes to bite into milky goodness is to open them up, lick, nibble, and enjoy them slowly.

With Milkana offering these treats, the brand invites parents to bring their kids and other family members into a more nutritious journey – for better health, enjoyment, and satisfaction as they engage in their activities.

Flora Guyenot, Southern Asia Marketing Director of Savencia Fromage & Dairy, the makers of Milkana, says:

“During the back-to-school season, snacking moments with Milkana Creamy Lollipops can be made better for kids’ nutrition, especially when it comes to their daily “baon.” At Savencia, we believe in offering delicious and nutritious treats that infuse joy in every experience – those that also spark fun and imagination while boosting health. Our Creamy Lollipops truly and strongly represent our dedication to helping Filipino families lead better lifestyles. We hope more kids and their parents will try and enjoy them!”

Milkana’s premium snacks are now available at major leading supermarkets and outlets.


Read More

Strategies Against the Rise of Dengue Cases in the Philippines

Friday, February 23, 2024

dengue vaccine

In the wake of the looming threat posed by Dengue, particularly to children, a recent discussion hosted by the Vaccine Solidarity Movement (VSM) shed light on the urgent need for collective action and innovative approaches. With 2023 marking a global record year for Dengue cases, even a "slow" year for the Philippines ranked the nation third in Dengue incidents. Here are the insights shared during the "Dengue Dialogue" event, emphasizing the crucial role of public involvement and the potential game-changing solutions against this potentially fatal disease.

The Impact of Dengue in the Philippines 

Examining the data from previous Dengue outbreaks in the Philippines, particularly the record year in 2019, reveals alarming statistics – 371,717 cases with 1,407 deaths, and half of these fatalities occurring in children aged 5 to 9. The possibility of an earlier rise in cases due to El Niño adds to the urgency, necessitating a proactive approach to combat the disease effectively.

A Call for Collective Involvement 

Health experts stress the importance of a whole-of-nation approach in the fight against Dengue. VSM Co-Founder Amor Maclang urges active engagement from the private sector, government, and society. Examples of collaborative efforts, such as developing catchy songs to educate children about Dengue, showcase the potential impact of collective involvement. Media and journalists are also recognized for their role in raising awareness and disseminating accurate information.

A Game-Changing New Weapon

TAK-003 Vaccine Dr. Nina Gloriani, former Head of the Vaccine Expert Panel of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), introduces the TAK-003 next-generation vaccine as a powerful tool in Dengue prevention. This vaccine, licensed for use in multiple countries, can create immune responses against all four strains of the Dengue virus, potentially reducing hospitalization rates. Dr. Gloriani emphasizes the need for a well-designed communication strategy and community engagement to enhance vaccine effectiveness.

Balancing Caution and Progress 

Undersecretary of Health Eric Tayag

While acknowledging the potential of new vaccines, Undersecretary of Health Eric Tayag emphasizes the importance of a meticulous evaluation process. The Philippines' success in handling COVID-19 vaccine misinformation sets a precedent for a balanced and careful approach to introducing new vaccines. The VSM's commitment to combat Dengue echoes the nation's dedication to public health, buoyed by the success in COVID-19 vaccine administration.

Rallying for a Dengue-Free Future 

Encouraged by the success in COVID-19 vaccination, the Philippines aims to replicate its fervor in combatting Dengue. With VSM leading efforts to achieve 95% vaccine coverage, the nation is called to rally behind the Department of Health's objective. The urgency to act today is stressed, considering the promising solutions on the horizon and the need to safeguard the well-being of future generations.

As the nation faces the rise of Dengue cases, a comprehensive and collective approach is essential to combat this potentially fatal disease. The introduction of innovative solutions such as the TAK-003 vaccine provides hope, but it is imperative for the Philippines to act swiftly and decisively to protect the health of its children and future generations.
Read More
...