Shopgirl Jen

Affiliated with Paris Miki Inc., Japan’s largest optical chain store with more than 800 stores established in Europe, Asia, Australia and the USA, TAGAI is now launched as the newest top-of-the-line eyewear brand offering the best options in driving eyewear to the very meticulous consumers here in the Philippines. TAGAI comes from the Japanese character 互 which means “unity”. In Japanese, TAG = fold and AI = love.

TAGAI has been conceptualized based on the corporate philosophy that is founded on the principle of putting customers and their future first. Geared towards providing quality in the products offered to the market and with an assurance of straight-from-the-heart customer service given in excellence up to the point of after-sales, TAGAI’s product development team gives consumers a chance to once and for all get value for their money. Furthermore, a portion of our total sales will be used for charity support funds.

Men and women drivers in the Philippines can now conquer the road not only with assurance in safety and reaching peak performance in driving by wearing TAGAI, the newest driving eyewear created using the latest in polarity technology. Designed to meet standard requirements for eye protection, visual aptitude optimization and performance enhancement for drivers’ especially professional auto racers while ensuring fashion and style, TAGAI’s product development team has been keen in each detail of this great innovation in both sports and casual eyewear. At the onset, TAGAI puts a spotlight on driving eyewear that gives anyone who is active with various day and night activities maximum eye protection, optimized use of visual aptitude and to cap it off, the guarantee of driving in fashion and style.

TAGAI has two (2) frame designs, the TAGAI (α) ALPHA and TAGAI (β) BETA. These designs were rationally made based on the two most significant things for its endorser F1 Japanese racer KAMUI KOBAYASHI which are protecting his eyes as the first and seconded by being stylish & trendy.

TAGAI (α) ALPHA

Black Frame and Yellow Temple, Gold Mirror with Diurnal Lens

Matte Black Finish in Gold Mirror Nocturnal Lens.

TAGAI (β) BETA

85% Dark Matte Black in Gold Mirror Lens

Sporty Red finish in gold mirror lens

With more than 80 years of experience in how to enhance our vision, TAGAI manufacturer Paris Miki is proud to release the Diurnal and Nocturnal Lenses. The unique experience of crystal-like lenses made in Japan.

Using the original manufacturing method of lenses with the integration of the fusion method of polarizing film and lenses, Diurnal Lenses were crafted to be surprisingly thin and highly durable. These lenses are very difficult to crack and will not easily come off. These anti-reflective lenses can diffuse reflection or glare coming from the road or that from a car’s dashboard even when it is raining to make driving stress-free.

For more information about the Tagai Eyewear collections, visit them at www.facebook.com/TagaiPhilippines or contact Tagai Trading (Mr. Manu T. Ofiaza) at Tel. 687-0483 and Mobile no. 0917-8719388 or manu.ofiaza@parismiki.ph. You may also check their website for more details http://www.tagai.co/

Motherhood is one of the greatest privileges that come with being a woman. But not everyone finds it easy to conceive, and medical science reveals that the risk for infertility especially runs high among the obese.

And just because you're a mom and you're always tired from your daily activities, it gives you an excuse to eat and eat. Or binge yourself or dwell yourself in stress eating. Some of us mommies have a love/hate relationship with our body. And when I attended the Cohen Lifestyle event, I learned that we really need to take care of ourselves, our body. Our health should be our top priority.

Cohen's pa-healthy lunch and desserts

“Weight loss is the cornerstone in the treatment of obesity-associated infertility. Every 0.1 unit increase in the waist-to-hip ratio of women decreases the probability of conception by 30% per menstrual cycle. This is due to the imbalance in hormones leading to problems in ovulation, fertilization and implantation. In addition, obese women who do get pregnant are more vulnerable to pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, stillbirths, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes,” explained Dr. Angel Bandola, an obstetrician-gynecologist at University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital and St. Luke’s Medical Center and Cohen’s Lifestyle Centre’s executive director.

If you look closely at the picture, from 240lbs last 2008 to 127lbs at present, thanks to change of lifestyle at Cohen, Dra. Angel managed to lose almost 100lbs. Amazing, right?

Some of us mommies might be trying for another baby(like ME!!! hehe). And I may not look obese, but this should be a warning or a reminder for me not to go there..

Can you believe that all these mommies were overweight before? Enter the Cohen’s Lifestyle Program, a rapid weight loss and wellness solution through nutrition based on a person’s unique blood profile. Through its holistic approach to beating obesity, the Cohen program has helped many aspiring moms lose the flab, experience the joys of motherhood, and stay in shape after giving birth. Without requiring exercise, injection, or intake of pills, the program delivers results, with clients averaging a loss of up to 8 to 10 lbs a month.

The stories of “Cohen mommies” (women who credit the Cohen program for their successful pregnancy) often begin with disappointment and desperation, but end in pleasant surprise and profuse gratitude.

One such mom is Cheryl Alcantara: “We have been praying to get pregnant. My seven year-old daughter had been wishing for a sibling ever since she was four, with birthday candles, tooth fairies, or Santa Claus.”

The wish was finally granted after she lost 51 lbs in six months through the Cohen program: her menstrual period became regular, and soon enough, she tested positive for pregnancy. And despite being over 35 years old and more prone to complications, she was cleared of hypertension and gestational diabetes.

Conceiving through Cohen

Another Cohen mommy is Love del Rosario, 32. It took three years, two infertility specialists and several work-ups before she got pregnant with her eldest, especially since she was obese and was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

At 168 lbs, she found it difficult to conceive again. But through Cohen, she shed 58 lbs in less than six months. As soon as she reached her goal weight, she got pregnant: “I never thought it was possible for me to get pregnant without a fertility work-up!”

Like her, Leah Alingog, 34, was diagnosed with PCOS before she got married, which led to great difficulty conceiving. But after losing over 20 lbs in three months, she got pregnant without going through any work-up.

For her part, Imelda Acidera, then a mom of three, enrolled in the Cohen’s Lifestyle Program to lose the flab. But when she shed 32 lbs in four months, she was able to conceive unexpectedly, more than eight years after the birth of her third child. Now, she is on her way to being slim again, and has been conscientiously following the Cohen’s lifestyle to shed the post-partum fat, or the “baby weight.”

The gift of motherhood is one that Cohen mommies cherish every day. As Love shares, “I feel blessed being able to love them, and discover who they are, and be a witness to the kind of persons they will be. It’s one adventure after another.” Leah, meanwhile, says, “My favorite part of being a mother is the everyday learning experience with my baby.”

As a bonus, the Cohen program has also been aiding Cohen mommies in losing the baby weight, by teaching them to watch what they eat. As Imelda explains, “Now, I know what food to choose and I have become more conscious of my eating habits,” adding that she had even acquired a more acute sense of taste, allowing her to truly enjoy every bite.

Finally, Cheryl says: “The Cohen lifestyle is about the discipline that we take with us even after the program. The meal plan teaches us about better food choices, thereby allowing these meals to be our medicine…I changed my wardrobe, bought nice-fitting clothes and started wearing heels!”

By the looks of it, Cheryl, Love, Leah, and Imelda have not just become moms, but moms in great shape, thanks to the Cohen’s Lifestyle Program. As Dr. Angel shares, “Our mission at the Cohen’s Lifestyle Centre is to help people adopt a lifestyle change, to become better, happier versions of themselves. To be able to let these women experience motherhood, and retain their figure after giving birth, is such a great blessing.”

You can now have your chance to be like them! Check out Cohen Lifestyle Centre and have a wellness and weight loss journey with them.

For more info and updates, add them on facebook.

Cheers to a healthy lifestyle!

While many of us can only dream of changing the world, Inanc Balci is already doing it. At 26, he co-founded South East Asia’s online retail tiger Lazada and now, at age 28, he sits as the Chief Executive Officer for Lazada Philippines.

On Being a young CEO

Balci, a Turkish raised in London, attended Purdue University in the U.S. with a double-degree in Industrial Engineering and Economics. Afterwhich, he worked on mergers and acquisitions for an investment bank in London. While working for the investment bank, Balci saw the eminent potential in e-commerce which led him to join Rocket Internet and eventually co-found Lazada in Southeast Asia.

In the Philippines, Balci heads a pool of more than 300 employees, all of which he works very closely with. With an unabashed outlook, agile wit, and a laser-sharp eye for details, Balci perfectly fits the bill to lead a rapidly-growing online company.

Inanc Balci, co-founder and CEO of Lazada Philippines

Online Shopping in the Philippines

In a country where shopping malls are practically part of the fabric of the society, online shopping is something quite a number of Filipinos are unaccustomed to—there comes the perennial trust issue on using credit cards, the surprise surcharges, and unfortunately, the products not arriving at all.

The malls in the Philippines, on the otherhand, have creatively articulated themselves to be not just shopping destinations but also as a means of recreation (i.e. be it the cinemas, the gaming zones, the restaurants, or as simple as the airconditioning they offer as a break from the raging tropical weather outdoors)—all of these were the issues that Balci had to dispel—and dispel he and his co-founders did. Lazada has made shopping quick, effortless, and risk-free to South East Asia and in the Philippines, this is the same principle that Balci is harping on to the Filipinos.

How is this so? First, Lazada accommodates all those shoppers without credit cards via its cash-on-delivery payment mode. This is essential given that not everyone has a credit card or is keen on sharing their credit card details to someone—or anyone for that matter. This makes online shopping risk-free for everyone.

Being an archipelago of 7,100 islands, accessibility is always an issue—a significant portion of consumers doesn’t have time or access to visit the malls but with a minimum of PhP 1,000 purchase, Lazada offers free nationwide delivery, to customers anywhere in the Philippines, just log-in, shop, and the products will be delivered at the customer’s doorstep.

Lastly, Lazada offers the flexibility of having the customers return the products within 30 days for free—provided that the products are in mint condition.

In a span of two years of being in the Philippines, Balci has steered Lazada to further heights and now with more than 40,000 SKUs, reaching 90-precent of the online population of the Philippines, and ranking as the 4th top Facebook brand in the country with a direct audience close to 2 Million.

What the dot-com bubble holds for Lazada is still yet to be revealed, but one thing is for certain, Inanc Balci, the 28 year-old co-founder and CEO, is definitely changing the way Filipinos buy.

About Lazada

Lazada (www.lazada.com.ph) is Philippines’ largest online shopping mall and is pioneering e-commerce by providing a fast, convenient and secure online shopping experience combined with an extensive product offering in categories ranging from mobiles & tablets and consumer electronics to household goods, toys, fashion and sports equipment. Lazada is continuously striving to offer its customers the best possible shopping experience with multiple payment methods including cash on delivery, extensive warranty commitments and free returns. Lazada mobile applications for Android, iPhone and iPad provide additional convenience to its consumers’ allowing them to shop anywhere, anytime.

For more information, please visit http://www.lazada.com.ph. For updates on Lazada’s latest innovations, as well as activities, contests and promotions, connect with us via Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines).

Let me tell you a secret.. I follow and watch Keeping Up with the Kardashians on E! haha! I'm curious kasi of their lifestyles, what's going on in their lives, living the luxury life, etc. And it's on free tv, so why not watch it, right? It's like an escape from your world and peeking on how other people live their life. Somtimes, we want real drama, real comedy, that's why we are easily hooked on reality shows. And it's one of my fave reality shows on E! And now, Asia will have our own reality show! Exciting! And it's none other than the Gutierrez Family!

Last Monday, I was invited to the Red Carpet premiere of It Takes Gutz to be a Gutierrez! It was held at Century Mall Plaza, Makati City. A lot of media people, celebrities were all excited to watch the show!

One of the year’s most highly anticipated reality series is set to make its mark on Asian airwaves as E! presents its first-ever Asian original, It Takes GUTZ To Be A Gutierrez. Featuring the Philippines’ most sensational showbiz family, this sizzling six-episode series premieres on Sunday, June 1 at 9pm, exclusively on pop culture powerhouse, E! (Sky Cable and Destiny Channel 57, Cignal Channel 25 and Cablelink Channel 33)

“As the home of the most topical pop culture buzz on celebrities, daily entertainment news and live red carpet coverage, E! is the perfect fit for a no-holds-barred series on the Gutierrez Family,” commented Christine Fellowes, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Universal Networks International. “We are delighted that they are opening up their lives and that we are able to bring this locally relevant content to our E! audience in the Philippines

Christine Fellowes, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Universal Networks International

The Gutierrez family may be synonymous with showbiz but it’s not all glitz and glamor for them. Viewers across Asia will get an unfiltered access into the dramatic lives of this one-of-a-kind Filipino family as Ruffa, Richard, Raymond and their parents Eddie and Annabelle live up to their name and show that it really takes GUTZ to be a member of their clan. Whether at home or on a cruise, each family member cannot escape the crazy controversies that surround them as they deal with issues of insecurity, failed attempts on marriage and politics, as well as rumors of pregnancy out of wedlock.

Will a supposedly gossip-free family vacation put rumors to rest? Will the family be forced to deal with issues they feel towards one another? How will the hardworking and protective Annabelle keep her family together amidst all the tension-filled family fights? Catch all these sensational emotions and jaw-dropping moments on the first season of It Takes GUTZ To Be A Gutierrez.

Being the global destination for ‘Pop of Culture’ and the renowned leader in entertainment news, the series marks E!’s first foray into original Asian reality programming and continued commitment to shine the spotlight on local Asian personalities and celebrities.

Eddie Gutierrez is a veteran actor with a career spanning more than 50 years and 100 movies. He was one of the top matinee idols in the ‘60s and ‘70s, being the leading man of the biggest Filipino blockbusters like Susan Roces, Amalia Fuentes and Pilita Corrales. He loves to sing and is often imitating his idol, Elvis Presley.

From where she is right now, one could hardly believe that Annabelle Rama-Gutierrez was born and raised in Cebu City and remains to be humble. Coming from a family that is no stranger to the Philippine political arena, Annabelle considers herself to be 100 % Cebuano.

Eddie is married to Annabelle Rama, a former actress who runs a talent management company. She grew up in a political family from Cebu and knows what she wants - from the first time she met Eddie she was star struck, fell in love and pursued him until he committed to her.

Married for more than 35 years, Eddie and Annabelle have been through it all and continue to be partners, best friends and each other’s greatest supporters. Eddie and Annabelle have six children: showbiz darlings Ruffa, Richard and Raymond, as well as Elvis, Rocky and Ritchie Paul. Eddie also has two sons from previous relationships: actors Tonton Gutierrez and Ramon Christopher.

Through the good times and bad, Eddie and Annabelle enjoy a life filled with love, warmth and happiness. They cherish their time together with the whole family and being grandparents to Ruffa’s daughters, Lorin and Venice.

EDDIE GUTIERREZ. The Legend and ANNABELLE RAMA, The Boss

Raymond is a TV host, editor, columnist, endorser and actor in the Philippines. Best known for hosting Pinoy Idol in 2008, which earned him the praise of US TV personality, and E!’s Live From The Red Carpet host Ryan Seacrest, Raymond is currently one of the hosts of entertainment newsmagazine Showbiz Police.

In October 2011, Raymond became the style director for Esquire Magazine Philippines, representing the men’s lifestyle publication at the 2012 Men's Fashion Week in London. He is also an ambassador for brands in fast-moving consumer goods (Magnum Ice Cream), haircare (TRESemmé) and beauty (Sexy Solution by Belo). In July 2012, he became an endorser for casual apparel retailer, Bench/Fix Salon.

RAYMOND GUTIERREZ, Funny Fashionista

Richard is an actor and producer, known for reality series Survivor Philippines (2008), musical variety show SOP Gigsters (2004) and fantasy TV drama Mulawin (2004-2005), which led to a feature-length film of the same name, Mulawin: The Movie (2005). Richard is an adventure-seeker by nature, enjoying the thrill of exploring the outdoors and riding his treasured motorbike. He is currently dating actress Sarah Lahbati.

RICHARD GUTIERREZ, Hunky Adrenaline Junkie

Sharmaine Ruffa Gutierrez, more popularly known as Ruffa Gutierrez, is a premier Filipino actress, model, television personality, beauty queen, commercial endorser and charity fundraiser. With a colorful career that spans over 20 years of being in the local and international entertainment industry, Ruffa’s showbiz experience covers five continents across multiple media platforms such as TV, movies, print and online. Truly a Filipino media and entertainment icon, she has starred in more than 50 film and television productions in a variety of roles.

She was married to Turkish businessman Yilmaz Bektas from 2003 to 2007, and they had their daughters Lorin and Venice. In 2009, she joined international beauty brand Avon as their ambassador for the “Speak Out Against Domestic Violence” campaign, championing the cause to empower women in the fight against domestic abuse.

To date, Ruffa remains to be one of the most in demand celebrities in the Philippines and one of its most celebrated faces. Ruffa continues to shine in every field that she finds herself in and continues to grow after every experience that she is faced with in her professional and personal life.

RUFFA GUTIERREZ, Beauty Queen, Actress, Model and Brand Ambassador

Don't forget to catch the Episode #101: The Price of Fame on Sunday, June 1 at 9PM

Of course, photo op with super aliw Ms. Annabel Rama and Mr. Eddie Gutierrez

Thank you E! for having me! :)

Save the date and time! It takes GUTZ to be a Gutierrez premieres June 1, Sunday at 9 pm on E! (Sky Cable Channel 57 and Cablelink Channel 33).

If you love romantic, drama series with suspense, a little mystery, unpredictable story lines, can't guess the ending, then you should watch the latest TV series of TV5 starring Jasmine Curtis Smith (playing as a fictional version of herself).

TV5's most promising young actress and posed to be the on-screen partner of the network's hottest hunk actor, Alexis Vergara (Vin Abrenica). As she clinches the lead role in the network's (fictional) flagship series Ur Loved, Jasmine finds adversity from her co-actresses which exposes her to the bitter realities of being famous. And as if things can't get any worse, Jasmine acquires a stalker named Maskara who becomes the source of a series of unfortunate events to befall on her.

Ace Saatchi & Saatchi, known for its award-winning advertising campaigns, is in-charge of the program's creative content, while Unitel Entertainment, a respected name in the field of commercial and film production, is the program's line producer.

JasMINE (the series) is also the first-ever TV series in the country that goes across digital platforms, boasting its second-screen feature that allows its audience to enjoy content both from their television and mobile screens. With this feature, viewers can follow JasMINE on-air and online, get access to relevant and exclusive content, and engage with the show and their fellow fans.

The series is just the first in TV5's list of programs that can be enjoyed via multi-screen media consumption as the network continues to respond to the changing media landscape in the country.

Mark your calendars and watch the premiere of JasMINE this June 1, 9:15PM on TV5.

OFFICIAL HASHTAG:

#JasmineTheSeries

LIKE: https://www.facebook.com/JasmineCurtisSmith

FOLLOW: http://instagram.com/jascurtissmith

FOLLOW: https://twitter.com/jascurtissmith

Want to get that enhanced natural lift and perfect coverage to complement your daily fashion? Keen on providing nothing but the best products to suit the modern Filipina, Tupperware Brands, Inc., the country’s leading direct-selling company, offers the best brand committed to bringing out the best form in women – Wonderbra. A world-renowned brand in cleavage enhancing brassiere, Wonderbra is tailored to perfectly fit Asian women, complemented with matching panty for overall comfort and to achieve supreme confidence.

Its much-loved design, the Secret Indulgence Convertible Push-Up Bra is a push-up bra with built-in “bumps” and additional removable cookies that help women achieve their desired degree of breast enhancement naturally. It has molded cups that provide perfect shaping and support. Cups also come in an elegant balconette design, which provides additional lift and perfect coverage to match low-cut tops and dresses.

There’s no need to worry about your desired outfit because Secret Indulgence can be worn in various styles—conventional, asymmetrical, halter, cris-cross, and strapless. This multi-wear feature gives women unparalleled comfort and versatility regardless of fashion style, making it the perfect choice for those who are not afraid to stand out, have fun, and try something new.

The comfort of seamless designs, the sensuality of cleavage enhancing cups, and the versatility of convertible brassiere all rolled into one, the Wonderbra Secret Indulgence is truly an indulgence for every woman.

Tupperware Brands is the authorized distributor of some of the world’s prestigious brands including Tupperware, Colour Collection, Ivana, White Result, Wonderbra, Playtex, Hanes, Baby Care Plus, and Kids Plus+. For your questions and inquiries on how to be a dealer, log on to www.tupperwarebrands.ph, email us at questions@Tupperware.ph or call the hotline number 867-2222.

I'm a fan of Shakey's for the longest time. From their chicken, to garlic bread, pasta, mojos and pizza, I always crave for Shakey's. And I'm delighted to share with you that our favorite pizza parlor added a new pizza flavor to try.

Shakey's held a media launch at Shakey's Katipunan branch and introduced their newest pizza flavor that all pizza lovers out there will truly love. 1954 was the year Shakey's established in the market. And after marking their 60th year this year, they're still here, satisfying our tummies for old style pizza with a touch of modern fresh ingredients!

1954 marked a great year for pizza with the launch of the first Shakey’s Pizza parlor in America. Year after year, Shakey’s iconic products have found a place in the hearts of Guests who frequent their beloved pizza parlor. This time around, Shakey’s brings a unique dish to the table; a secret recipe perfected over time.

Shakey’s introduces yet another amazing innovation with the latest addition to their line-up of beloved dishes. The new Shakey’s Pizza 1954 is a salute to the amazing taste that has built the brand and made Shakey’s a name in creating good times and great memories.

The new pizza joins other iconic products on their menu, giving Guests added variety. This time around, “the secret’s in the crust,” with a new chewy, soft, delectable dough base that is sure to leave mouths watering and appetites satisfied. Combined with the freshest ingredients, the new Shakey’s Pizza 1954 is the first contemporary gourmet pizza for Shakey’s Guests to know and love.

“This is truly an innovation for Shakey’s since we are the first in the pizza category to offer contemporary gourmet pizza,” says Koi Castillo, Brand Manager for Shakey’s. “We will further develop this new category of Shakey’s pizza and create more iconic products for our Guests.”

Indeed, the special touches to the new Shakey’s Pizza 1954 boast both quality and exceptional flavor combinations. Fresh Rosemary and Basil leaves, juicy morsels of Italian sausage and Angus beef, slices of Pepperoni, 100% Mozzarella cheese, savory red onions, and a sprinkling of Parmesan rest atop a yummy soft gourmet dough crust of another tantalizing Shakey’s original.

A certified standout with its unique crust and hearty mix of the finest ingredients, the new Shakey’s Pizza 1954 retains the classic Shakey’s spirit while staying true to the times.

YUM YUM!!! The secret is really in the crust. With Shakey's Pizza 1954, you will no longer have leftover pizza crust in your plate!

Shakey's new kids ambassadors? hehe! Sofi and Athan(Ava's cute son!) also enjoyed their 1954 pizza!

Thank you so much Shakey's Pizza and ARC PR for having me and Sofi. We went home full and still craving for more Shakey's pizza! Haha! :D

So friends, don't forget to try the newest flavor from Shakey's! The new Shakey’s Pizza 1954 (Php. 450) is available in all Shakey’s restaurants, nationwide.

Are you dreaming and aspiring to have your own house with a backyard, mini office/library, a music room, play room and a walk-in closet(it's a must have! haha!)? Who doesn't? Include pa the fresh air, non-stop supply of water, clubhouse, swimming pool, excellent security, etc. But nowadays, you have to consider the locations, financing, materials that needs to buy, and so on. Parang imposible to own a house right now. We need to save a lot of money just to have a house to call our home. But fear not! Maybe your dream house is waiting for you and within your reach!

A week ago, I was invited to attend the brand launch of Carmona Estates. Owning your dream house proves to be a challenge these days. Several factors like location, affordable financing and environment play important roles in determining whether a house can be turned into a home. Fortunately for prospective homeowners, these elements are exactly what property developer and game changer Property Company of Friends, Inc., or simply PRO-FRIENDS, strategically consider in creating residential communities in providing quality homes to Filipino families.

To support this mission, PRO-FRIENDS’ 87 hectare development Carmona Estates recently launched its newest campaign aptly called, “We’re Home.” Held at the posh Blue Leaf Filipinas in Parañaque City, privileged media friends and special guests were among those who have been given a virtual walkthrough of the different offerings of Carmona Estates.

I've been to Carmona Estates many times because I have relatives who lives there. And I simply love the fresh air, the atmosphere, friendly neighborhood, security and the peace and quiet of the surroundings. You're really home at Carmona Estates!

Carmona Estates, a noted development of PRO-FRIENDS, offers the most value for your hard-earned money. With an impressive portfolio of horizontal and vertical residential developments all over the country, PRO-FRIENDS is a trusted name in the real estate industry. This alone is assurance enough that choosing to reside within the Carmona Estates enclave is one of the wisest investments young married couples can have.

“A house should be a place where you and your family feel most comfortable at – no pretensions, no hesitations. This is where you should be able to reveal your true self without fear of judgment. Carmona Estates, through the “We’re Home” campaign, delivers your own sanctuary, a space where you can be the way you are. Our house and lots are roomy and cozy, perfect for a growing family who seeks to be completely at home in their own house. Our units are both affordable, starting at PhP9,300/month for the Pines house model, with no lump sum or balloon payments, and spacious with well thought-out designs, something that’s rarely offered in the market today,” says Mr. Augusto G. Leonardo, Jr., PRO-FRIENDS COO/EVP/Business Unit 4 Head.

A range of house models like townhouses and single-attached units, each smartly utilizing every available space, awaits different kinds of families. Upstart couples may opt for the Pines, a manageable 60-square-meter dwelling with three bedrooms and two baths, starting at PhP9,300 for the monthly payment. Meanwhile, bigger families may want the four-bedroom Oakwood, a spacious 104-square-meter expanse with enough room for two cars, starting at PhP18,900 a month.

Each house-and-lot is priced competitively so even a modest amount of savings can already get you started in owning your dream home. With one of the most flexible financial schemes in the market that guarantees no balloon payments, living in the well-appointed Carmona Estates gated community is within reach.

Situated at Barangay Lantic in Carmona, Cavite, Carmona Estates is a thriving community with existing happy homeowners already. Residents can also spend their time in the community’s sprawling greenery, where a playground, swimming pool are available for every homeowner’s use.

Carmona Estates is conveniently located eight minutes from the Carmona Exit of the South Luzon Expressway, and just a few minutes away from the Carmona town proper and public market. It is a flood-free community that fosters belongingness, comfort and security.

Thank you Carmona Estates for having me! Congratulations on the brand launch!

Did you ever think what our world will be without gadgets? Nowadays, cellphone and tablets are now a necessity. A must have accessories. Our arm candies. Try to live one day without any of these and you'd think you will not survive. Haha! Even in family gatherings, meet up with friends, our faces are down, and we're just half listening to them because our attention is in our gadget. I'm not against using our gadget. No. What I'm saying is, being offline and having real talk is what we missed when we're always online and reading everyone's statuses and tweets. Lol! Yes, I'm guilty too.

When I attended the McDonald's BFF Timeout event last week held at McDonald's Greenbelt 1 branch, I actually enjoyed the game that we played since we were not allowed to use or touch our gadgets. Haha!

With the recent launch of the #BetterTogether campaign, McDonald’s and Coca-Cola took a stand and asked people to stay offline a little longer to celebrate real-world connections. Encouraging its customers to spend time with one another over a McDonald’s meal and a Coca-Cola drink, the two iconic brands introduced the BFF Bundles, meals best shared with friends, enabling them to experience moments of genuine connection anytime, anywhere.

In order to amplify and sustain the #BetterTogether campaign’s big idea of inspiring people to enrich their friendships by being physically together, McDonald’s and Coca-Cola have developed a new mobile app that will make bonding time even more exciting—the BFF Timeout App.

A fun new way to bring friends closer together, the BFF Timeout App is a gaming app which challenges players to go on a “digital timeout” with friends—to celebrate real-world connections without digital interruptions, such as checking their mobile phones. Customers just have to download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store on their iOS or Android phones, log in with their Facebook accounts or play as a guest, invite friends to play, and spend minutes, or even hours, gadget-free.

The game is very simple yet offers a fun challenge to those who find themselves often glued to their smartphones and handheld gadgets, as one can earn badges for more minutes played. The longer you and your friends go on a timeout, the better the reward!

More than being able to play a game with the gang, friends also have the chance to take their timeout to a fun destination!

Until July 19, 2014, every purchase of a BFF Burger or Chicken Bundle for three or four comes with a coupon. Each coupon contains a code, which must be entered in the app to qualify for a chance to win a free trip for four! Prizes include a trip to Boracay on the first raffle draw, Coron, Palawan on the second, Singapore on the third and Osaka, Japan on the final draw.

So how long do you think you and your friends can last on a digital timeout? Download the McDonald’s and Coca-Cola BFF Timeout App now and find out!

Played real games at McDonald's BFF Timeout

And oh, I won in their raffle too! YAY!!! Thank you so much McDonald's Philippines! Love ko kayo!

Visit www.bfftimeout.com to know more. Use the hashtags #BetterTogether and #BFFTimeout when celebrating real-world connections.

Enjoy precious time with your friends with BFF Timeout App! Download it now! :)

Thank you McDonald's Philippines for having me!

Oh how I love being a woman! Our favorite brand SM Woman released a new collection in time for 2014 Philippine Fashion Week. And what a show! SM Woman opened the 2014 PFW held at SMX Hall with a big bang!

Before the runway show started, SM Woman had a pre-show and a toast to welcome 2014 Philippine Fashion Week!

Ever since its establishment, the SM Women’s department has endeavored to dress every woman at any age, for any occasion. Keeping this same goal in mind, The SM Store brings together its trademark collection of women’s fashion labels under one name:

SM WOMAN.

Super inlove with the runway set!

From daring digital prints to neoprene, industrial graphics, artistic floral and structured window pane checks, trends come together under a new mega brand, the latest to rock the fashion scene.

The SM WOMAN is constantly in style. She is fashionable. She is a career-driven individual who also loves her leisure time. She is dynamic and exciting, yet casual and relaxed. No matter where she goes, from the city to the boardroom, home, and beyond, every day is a completely new experience.

Enjoyed the show with blogger friends Kai and Kath

It’s Fashion Day. Everyday. for the SM Woman.

The new SM Woman collection is available at all The SM Store.

What a fantastic show! Loved all the prints and the entire collection! Congratulations! Thank you so much SM Woman and ARC PR for having me! Looking forward to shop and collect the latest line from SM Woman!

The SM Store brings together its trademark collection of women’s fashion labels under one name: SM Woman, which showcased on Philippine Fashion Week at the SMX Convention Center.

SM Woman celebrates the stylish modern woman – dynamic and exciting, yet casual and relaxed. She is a career-driven individual who also loves her leisure time. No matter where she goes, from the city to the boardroom, home, and beyond, every day is a completely new experience.

The SM Woman Collection

SM Woman’s premier collection will be launched at Philippine Fashion Week. These are on-trend clothes that celebrate versatility and the power of mix and match.

Neoprene. Capture effortless luxe with lightweight style and uplifting breathability. Mid-length dresses provide a clean minimalist vibe evoking a strong look with a premium feel.

New Age Digital. These are prints that jump from techie tablets to the runways - randomly positioned geometric shapes juxtaposed with spliced patterns create a riveting montage for a variety of occasions.

Windowpane Checks. Timeless black and white goes geometric with graphic simplicity.

Artistic Floral. Hand-drawn floral patterns emphasize illustrative techniques in appealing painterly blooms, artful splashes of color and life bring a vibrant look to party wear with elegant flair.

Resort. From beach to cabana and beyond, resort rules with feminine watercolor prints on light chiffon, and tropical and abstract patterns on robes and loose harem pants.

Industrial Graphics. Swirled marble and granite, grayscale graphics, scratchy patterning, and disrupted checks highlight new ways to celebrate industrial style.

SM Woman clothes highlight the different aspects of her eclectic.

FASHION is the magical thread that holds these different aspects of a woman’s life together. It’s a medley of styles that will keep the SM Woman always ahead of the fashion scene.

CAREER. The SM Woman sends out a fashion memo that power is not always wrapped in rigid construction but also in genius tailoring and creative styling. High on the style agenda are clothes that work wonders in the boardroom and beyond, from office hours activities to after-office events.

CASUAL. Easy pieces are the order of the day - stylish basics with unexpected twists. These clothes are the building blocks for an effortless chic look.

EVENING. Modern and elegant pieces combine to create an impressive range of options for an uptown sophisticate ensemble or downtown glam look.

RESORT. It’s eternal sunshine with fashion picks that will brighten up the stylish SM Woman. Playful prints and lightweight pieces you can take to the beach or the city streets.

It’s Fashion Day. Everyday. for the SM Woman. The new SM Woman collection is available at all The SM Store.

Follow them on twitter or like them on facebook. You can also follow them on Instagram: @SMWoman for more news and fashion updates!

Acupuncture has long been associated with pins and needles which is why a lot of people balk at the thought of trying it. Many Filipinos are scared of the needle and having a few being poked at you to treat a sickness is not their idea of fun. Truth be told, most would choose to suffer through their illness than have some needles be stuck on them. Thankfully, Doc Philip Nino Tan-Gatue, an acupuncturist, is more than willing to shed light as to why Acupuncture is nothing to be afraid of.

1. What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture, in the narrow sense, refers to the insertion and manipulation of needles into the body, usually at set locations known popularly as “points”. In the broad sense, it refers to a collection of procedures related to needling. The word itself comes from the latin acus meaning “needle” and pungere meaning “to puncture” and it involves penetrating the skin with thin, solid, metallic needles. These needles are then manipulated by hand or by electrical stimulation. Needles can be placed on sites of local pain or on pre-defined acupuncture points that lie on pathways of Qi known as “meridians” or “channels”.

2. What are its benefits?

The most important benefit that acupuncture offers comes from the fact that it does not involve administering or taking any medication. There are patients who, for various reasons, are unable or unwilling to take or to increase medication dose or number. These include patients on kidney or liver failure, or simply patients who want to take less medication - pharmaceutical or herbal - to keep from "overloading" their systems. As for conditions it can treat, acufinder.com lists the following:

Eye, Ear, Nose, Throat Disorders

Sinusitis

Sore Throat

Hay Fever

Earache

Nerve Deafness

Ringing in the Ears

Dizziness

Poor Eyesight

Circulatory Disorders

High Blood Pressure

Angina Pectoris

Arteriosclerosis

Anemia

Gastrointestinal Disorders

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Spastic colon

Colitis

Constipation

Diarrhea

Food Allergies

Ulcers

Gastritis

Abdominal Bloating

Hemorrhoids

Gynecological / Genitourinary Disorders

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Irregular, Heavy or Painful Menstruation

Endometriosis

Menopause

Fibroids

Chronic Bladder Infection

Complications in Pregnancy

Morning Sickness

Kidney Stones

Impotence

Infertility in Men and Women

Sexual Dysfunction

Respiratory Disorders

Asthma

Emphysema

Bronchitis

Colds and Flus

Immune Disorders

Candida

Chronic Fatigue

HIV and AIDS

Epstein Barr Virus

Allergies

Lupus

Hepatitis

Addiction

Smoking Cessation

Drugs

Alcohol

Emotional and Psychological Disorders

Anxiety

Insomnia

Depression

Stress

Musculoskeletal and Neurological Disorders

Arthritis

Neuralgia

Sciatica

Back Pain

Bursitis

Tendonitis

Stiff Neck

Bell’s Palsy

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Headaches and Migraines

Stroke

Cerebral Palsy

Polio

Sprains

Muscle Spasms

Shingles

Acupuncture Also Treats

Chemotherapy/Radiation Side Effects

Diabetes

Dermatological Disorders

Weight Control

3. What are its limitations?

In my opinion, its limitations come from the fact that it is practitioner dependent - acupuncture is not just sticking needles in. It involves diagnosis, points selection, needle insertion and manipulation. A certain mastery of skill is required.

Another such limitation is that it is difficult to use acupuncture for treating diseases with an obvious anatomic cause. Treating muscle pain because of spasm is one thing, but treating an injury like a torn tendon may require surgery.

It is also good for initial stages of infections, but it's only secondary for later, more severe infections.

4. What are the restrictions once you start undergoing acupuncture?

Generally, Acupuncture is discouraged for people who are hungry or who have just had a heavy meal. Hemophiliacs are also discouraged from undergoing acupuncture. Also, it is recommended that patients avoid exposure to cold right after acupuncture (maybe 2-3 hours) because this might lead to cramps and spasms.

Patients on blood thinners are NOT forbidden from undergoing acupuncture.

5. It's summertime. What are the common ailments that can be easily cured by acupuncture?

Interestingly, summertime in the Philippines means more people turning on aircons and electric fans. This leads to more exposure to cold and thus, more aches and pains. Also, summer weather leads to respiratory problems such as allergic rhinitis. I won't say acupuncture will cure allergic rhinitis, but it will sure help in reducing it!

6. How can people who are scared of needles undergo acupuncture?

That's just a matter of proper communication with the patient - helping them understand what they will experience and instilling confidence in the practitioner.

Doc Phil, as he is fondly called, actually held a session with me where he poked me on the arm and true to what he said, if the practitioner knew what he was doing, you would hardly feel the actual poke. When the needle is in though, it will give you this unusual feeling where you can feel the needle being moved inside your muscles but it wouldn’t hurt. It felt like a heaviness or a vibe and it wasn't painful at all.

Now this is the kind of acupuncture that I can definitely do and live with.

The above FAQ is taken from Doc Philip’s blog at http://acupuncture.net.ph

Viber and SM Accessories invites you to the biggest concert happening on June 11 that will be held at SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. Big names like APL.DE.AP, Mars Miranda, Hardrock Sofa and a whole lot more will be there! It's gonna be a fun. fun night to party!

And in line with this, I'll be giving away 2 FREE ENTRANCE to #OneVibePH concert, thanks to SM Accessories! Just follow the mechanics to enter. This is for limited time only. The giveaway will end on June 11 at 12AM.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Easypeasy, right? Good Luck!!!

CONGRATULATIONS Jennilyn Acuna Gines! Please email me your contact number at shopgirl_jen@yahoo.com on how to claim your tix!

Thank you SM Accessories for hosting this giveaway! Yay!!!

We all know that having luxurious hair is one of the greatest pride of being a woman. It's a big part of being a woman. Her crown of glory. May it be short, long, straight, curly or wavy, as long as it's healthy and natural, all is well. Everyone wants a strong, shiny hair! It boost confidence to a person. But did you know that lack of sleep, change of weather, weight loss, weight gain, not eating right, poor lifestyle, chemicals found in shampoo/conditioner are some of the culprit in damaging our hair? We can now put a stop in damaging more of our hair! Read and find out how! :)

I attended the media launch of Shokubutsu HANA Shampoo held at New World Hotel. I've been hearing the wonders of Hana shampoo thru my sister and friends. And I'm glad I'll have a chance to try it for myself.

And also, HANA shampoo introduced their new endorser! When it comes to beauty, she's a natural! She really is very pretty in person, it was my 1st time to see her too. So perfect to be the new face of Hana shampoo! And it's none other than Ms. Marian Rivera!

It was an afternoon of beauty as Hana Shampoo officially welcomed Marian Rivera as the brand’s new celebrity endorser. The primetime queen gamely answered the media’s questions with straight to the point responses that showed how natural she really is.

Her appeal is amplified by her thousands of loyal fans and followers who take every opportunity to show their support. Marian believes that without her fans, she wouldn’t be where she is today. That is why she takes every opportunity to reach out to her followers by personally talking or sending messages to them to ensure that they feel appreciated.

As we adapt to current lifestyle and societal changes, our behavior has become one that’s always “on-the-go”, results are often expected to be instantaneous. But one brand sees things differently going against quick fixes and sought a different route to provide a long lasting sustainable beauty. It goes back to where beauty began to promote a new kind of beauty called Healthy Beauty.

Hana is a new beauty care brand by Japanese brand Shokubutsu. It recently entered the Philippine market and offers hair and body care that provides natural solutions.

All shampoo variants contain 100% natural cleansing ingredients, suitable for all hair types, is good for any weather condition, and focuses on scalp care to ensure your hair will grow healthy and strong.

The Hana shampoo line has three variants – Soft and Silky, Anti-Dandruff and Anti-Hairfall.

Hana Anti-Hairfall variant contains Sophora Root Extract, which helps extend the hair’s natural growth cycle as it also improves blood circulation in the scalp to maintain healthy hair.

Hana Soft and Silky shampoo has R-Essential or Arginine, an amino acid found in the scalp and has the ability to hold moisture naturally.

Hana Anti-Dandruff shampoo cleans the scalp to help remove pollutants, dandruff flakes and irritation caused by UV rays, bacteria and dryness. (pic from their website)

To complement the shampoo Hana provides added care with its Smooth and Soft Conditioner it helps sustain the hair’s natural beauty with its all-natural moisturizing ingredients.With 100% natural moisturizing ingredients, HANA Smooth and Soft Conditioner gently moisturizes hair, maintaining its natural beauty. After completely rinsing off shampoo, gently massage through hair up to the tips. Then, rinse thoroughly. For best results, use with any HANA shampoo.

The Hana brand extends to body care by offering premium quality body washes with easy rinse formula. It lathers easily and leaves an excellent feel on your skin giving the pampering your body needs. Also with 100% natural cleansing ingredients the Hana body wash is available in 3 refreshing and soothing variants; Citrus Sensation, Sakura Bloom and Floral Delight.

Sanitize your hands by using Hana Hand Wash, available in 2 forms; Liquid and Foaming to give your hands the cleansing care they deserve.

HANA Citrus Sensation Body Wash and HANA Anti-Bacterial Liquid Hand Wash

Without a doubt her natural beauty is one of her most significant asset, a beauty that supersedes any artificial modifications or filters. Which makes this collaboration with Hana Shampoo a perfect fit. Marian is the epitome of naturalness and beauty which the brand strongly represents. She is driven and passionate about her work, never letting negative press influence who she truly is. It is no surprise she has a large fan base undeniably faithful to her. These are the traits Hana Shampoo believes Marian will bring to the brand.

With this promising union, Hana Shampoo foresees a fruitful partnership. One that is enduring and will stand the test of time; such as her beauty; such as nature.

And with Hana Shampoo – Healthy hair is naturally beautiful.

Congratulations Ms. Marian for being the new face of HANA Shampoo! Thank you for this photo op. :))

We are naturally beautiful! hehe. ;)

HANA Shampoo and other products are now available in leading department stores and supermarkets!

Thank you so much HANA for having me! Can't wait to try HANA products and treat my hair in a natural way!

It’s time to celebrate freedom and show off that Ayos Vibe at the #OneViberPH party on June 11, at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. Showcasing the best of the Philippines in music and art, #OneViberPH is the freedom party for the modern Fililpino.

“Music has always been a part of our culture, especially among young Filipinos. So we are supporting OneVibePH to express our oneness with young people. This is a night that will unite us through music as we celebrate Philippine Independence. While OneVibePH offers great music, we at AyosDito.ph can provide the younger generation great online buying and selling experiences. Partnering with OneVibePH is one way of expressing our affinity with them,” explains Vanessa Lee Cartera, AyosDito.ph Senior Marketing Executive.

Crystal Lee, Viber’s Country Manager, added “After the success of #Viberacay event which dominated the island of Boracay during the Labor Day weekend, Viber wishes to celebrate the Philippine Independence Day since we already have our local office here in Manila providing free messaging to 13 million Viber subscribers. This is an opportunity for us to gather Viber users, enjoy the biggest electronic event and dance to the music of our local DJs.”

Joining the headliners are Filipino Apl.De.Ap, DJ Filipino-Dutch Laidback Luke, Filipino DJs Funk Avy, Mars Miranda and Motherbasss. Foreign DJs will also join the event in support of Filipino talents: HardRock Sofa and Infected Mushroom. Likewise, 12 of the metro’s top party venues will be closed to support this independence day party: Aracama, Dillingers, The Distillery, Haze, Hyve, Imperial, Prive, Prohibition, Republiq, Skye, Time, Prive and UrBn.

Tickets are now available thru SM Tickets at (02) 470-2222 or www.smtickets.com and at Ticketworld at 891-9999 or at www.ticketworld.com. Ticket prices are at Php 1000.00 for Patron tickets and Php 500.00 for students and Viber users, just Viber Message using the hashtag (#OneVibePH) to 0911-VIBERPH to get the promo code when purchasing online.

13 million subscribers… 12 Prime Dance Clubs… 6 Participating Local DJs in 1 Epic Viber Event!

Hashtags: #AyosVibe #OneVibePH

Social Media Handle (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram): @AyosDito_PH @ViberPH

I was invited to attend the press launch of HBC National Makeover Day held at Stacy's, BGC. And I would like to share with you that a beautiful change is coming on June 12 at the Activity Center of Trinoma!

HBC is mounting the country’s first-ever National Makeover Day on June 12, 2014 at TriNoma Activity Grounds and in all HBC stores nationwide, to celebrate and affirm the beautiful transformation of Filipinas who will begin to embrace their beauty by saying “Yes” to a beautiful change!

Yes to a beautiful change! Perfect mantra in the morning, don't you think? :)

The one thing inevitable is change. In nature, we see this daily miracle in the form of growth. Plants sprout from the earth, flowers come in full bloom, and people mature with grace. This year, change takes on the premiere responsibility of transforming a nation into a more free world view—where beauty is a right, and the transformative effects of change can be enjoyed by everyone.

“As an innovative world-class retailer of beauty and personal care products and services, we believe in giving every customer the right to be beautiful. This vision is the core reason why we make sure that our products and free services are fit for all the needs of a Filipina in order for her to feel beautiful, and are affordable enough for anyone to avail of,” Dreiann Ablaza, Customer Lifecycle Management Manager.

Brands that we can find inside the HBC Store

Now, here's the exciting part! If you say Yes to a Beautiful Change, just go to the National Makeover Day and get a pampering sesh the HBC way! Experience a free makeover services like facial, diamond peel, hot oil treatment, hair color application and foot spa!

And our favorite brands from HBC will be there too!

Some of the highlights at National Makeover Day: Beauty Talks and Makeover Citizen

The must have beauty essentials from HBC

If in fairy tales, damsels are aided by a fairy godmother; at the National Makeover Day, ladies and gents who will say Yes to a Beautiful Change at the Trinoma Activity Center will have the likes of Ms. Philippines-Universe 2011 beauty queen Shamcey Supsup and supermodel and professional image consultant Abbygale Aranas-De Leon to help begin the beautiful transformation. There will also be other surprise celebrities to grace the event.

“Everyone is invited to say “Yes” to a Beautiful Change on June 12. This is the first in the Philippines. By joining the National Makeover Day event, you would walk away with your perfect selfie look, skincare routine, and secrets to confidence as takeaways.

So come and join HBC make the world a more beautiful place by launching thousands of beautiful changes in every Filipina at the National Makeover Day. Say “Yes” to a beautiful change and be part of the country’s first beauty revolution through freedom and beauty transformation.

SAVE THE DATE: National Makeover Day on June 12, 2014 at TriNoma Activity Grounds and in all HBC stores nationwide.

See you there!!!

A week ago, I was invited to an intimate luncheon at Stella Wood Fired Bistro in BGC wherein everything we ate from appetizer, salad, main course, the beef that included in the ingredients came from Australia! It's soft and juicy and you can cook anything with it without pressure cooker.

In major markets around the world, there is a preference of Australian beef because of the taste factor and high safety standards. "Australia is widely know for having an enviable food safety record when it comes to producing safe, quality beef," says MLA Country Head for the Philippines, Peter Paul Perez. "The eating quality of Australian red meat is superior. To begin with, Australian beef industry has done on this strength so it is now has a 200 year old history devoted to advancing livestock production and meat safety."

Appetizer: Alder Chip Smoked Australian Beef tartare with burnt leeks and shaved pecorino

Salad: Grilled Australian Strip loin with Bukidnon Organic Greens, Quinoa Pickled Watermelon Radish with Honey Lime Vinaigrette

Main Course: Herb Crusted Wood fired Australian Cube Roll with Roasted Bone Marrow Potato Puree and Heirloom Vegetables

Dessert: French Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee, Lemon Lime Sorbet and Spiced Chocolates

To honor the man of the house this Father's Day, Meat and Livestock Australia(MLA) has partnered with S&R and Austrade to make sure daddy dearest gets bellyful of his favourite Australian beef and more. MLA is launching twin promotions for the Father's Day month of June.

Every purchase of 2 kilos of Australian beef at any S&R branch until June 15 entitles customers to draw from a lot and bring home any of the following prizes: indoor grill, charbroiled grill, food thong, Australian Red Wine or recipe booklet. From June 14 to 30, diners at Cyma, Allium and Madison's Bistro Moderne who will order any entree made with Australian beef can get a special Father's Day mug.

Among Filipinos, beef can be both everyday fare and a special occasion treat. With Father's Day coming up, there are a lot of ways to savor beef as a celebration dish whether one chooses to prepare it at home or enjoy it at a restaurant.

So buy your 2 kilos of Australian Beef now at any S&R branch near you and celebrate Father's Day with home cooked meals for the whole family.

Happy Father's Day to all Daddies out there!

I had a pleasure to attend Rediscovering Natural Beauty by The Skin Specialist held at Society Lounge, Makati City. As we all know, beauty may be skin deep but we also need to take care of our skin. And Skin Specialist is the right place to be to rediscover natural beauty.

Joey Mead as host of the event.

We all have different concept of what beauty is. And each of us possesses a unique kind of beauty. Sadly, this beauty is often spoiled by skin problems – from acne and discoloration, to signs of aging such as fine lines and volume loss which leads to sagging.

To rediscover our natural beauty, sometimes all we need is a little help from dermatologists. Unfortunately, there are those who have abused and misused some procedures to the point of producing awful and unnatural results. This has prompted many not only to fear the outcome of these treatments but also to question their safety.

Melanie Griffith, former wife of Antonio Banderas. She was beautiful before plastic surgery. Sad noh? This is one bad case of going to a wrong plastic surgeon. We've seen so many hollywood stars who were beautiful before the surgery. And you can't recognize some of them.

Hoping to address this fear, The Skin Specialist presents latest treatments to let the patient’s natural beauty shine. The clinic was founded in 2004 by Dr. Jean Marquez, who has been practicing Clinical and Cosmetic Dermatology since 1999. She is currently a co-host of a medical program called PinoyMD and one of the most sought-after resource persons on skincare and anti-aging, appearing on television and radio shows, as well as in magazines and newspapers.

According to Dr. Jean, her advocacy began when patients started coming to her saying they did not want to have a frozen or unnatural look. “I am a strong advocate of natural beauty, meaning if patients undergo enhancements, it should be non-invasive and must have the most natural-looking results,” she explained. In short, the aesthetician’s goal should be to highlight the patient’s assets and hide the flaws, cognizant of each person’s unique features.

The Skin Specialist team is led by renowned dermatologist Dr. Jean Marquez

With this aim of rediscovering natural beauty, The Skin Specialist has launched safe and effective treatments using non-invasive techniques and state of the art technology. They offer cutting-edge advanced laser, light, tightening, and lifting treatments as well as anti-aging, vein, whitening and slimming services.

“At the core of these non-invasive treatments is the use of such injectables as dermal fillers and Botulinum toxin, which are becoming the modern alternative to going under the knife,” said Dr. Jean, who is also the former president of the Philippine Center for Dermatology and Laser Surgery and a fellow of the Philippine Dermatological Society.

And now, thru The Skin Specialist, we have another way of removing those unwanted lines from our faces without plastic surgery.

Allergan’s Juvederm Voluma® with Lidocaine, for example, is a formulation that temporarily helps restore facial volume that has diminished due to weight loss or age-related facial fat loss. Through volume restoration, the face becomes more contoured: Cheeks become fuller, cheekbones look more defined, and the jawline appears more chiseled

Juvederm Voluma®’s key ingredient is hyaluronic acid, a naturally-occuring substance in the human body known for its exceptional hydrating ability. The formulation rejuvenates the face and helps reduce – if not eliminate – fine lines, mimicking the result of a facelift.

Through dermal filler treatments, anesthesiologist Michiko got rid of fine lines and sagging skin on her face.

Dennis, a financial adviser, looked refreshed and dapper after going through the treatments at The Skin Specialist.

Carmela, a dentist, came home with more defined features after her visit to Dr. Jean.

Done properly, Juvederm Voluma(, combined with Allergan’s Botox(, produces a natural-looking shine instead of the stiff expression many have come to be afraid of. The best part? The procedure takes only about an hour, but the effects last for up to 18 to 24 months.

Dr. Jean adds that patients can now look forward to better results because most doctors specializing in aesthetic treatments have thoroughly studied the elements balance and symmetry, resulting in well-cultivated taste for beauty. Plus, there are a lot of new and effective products that deliver natural and long lasting effects.

She cites semi-permanent fillers like Juvederm Voluma® as an example “It’s safe and painless and doesn’t have the scary complications of permanent fillers,” she said, adding that, “there are also more variations of fillers that can be injected to suit different areas of the face to create natural, three-dimensional effects. Plus it’s easier to inject, so it’s more comfortable to administer, both for patients and doctors.”

Now, The Skin Specialist is equipped with 20 machine treatments which include lasers, light, ultrasound treatments, and heat, and has 12 staff members, including nurses, therapists, and two board-certified dermatologists.

But the clinic’s mission, ten years after its founding, remains unchanged: “At The Skin Specialist, our passion is to produce beautiful, natural-looking results using anti-aging products and treatments while adhering to the highest standards of efficacy, quality and safety,” shared Dr. Jean.

Photo op with tall and slender, Joey Mead King

I personally tried their face skin tester. And yes, if I really have to take care of my skin! Note to self: moisturize, moisturize, moisturize and use sunblock!

Services offered at The Skin Specialist

No to looking frozen! Lol!! Let it go the laziness!

Dr. Jean’s expertise is the secret behind the every growing clientele of The Skin Specialist which started as a small clinic located along Timog Avenue with 3 treatment beds and 3 therapists, but was eventually moved to a bigger space at the ground floor of ESNA Buidling, #30 Timog Ave., Quezon City. For appointments, call 374-8087 or 0917-810-1319.

Healthway gets two nods from Reader’s Digest Asia. Healthway Medical officials give their biggest smiles upon receiving the Reader’s Digest Asia Most Trusted Brand for Ambulatory Clinics Platinum Awards and Marketing Excellence Award. Photo shows: (L-R) Sue Carney, Reader’s Digest Asia Pacific Editor-in-Chief; Joven Alcala, Healthway Medical Marketing Manager, Myrna Sison, Healthway Medical VP for Finance; Carmie De Leon, Healthway Medical VP for Sales and Marketing; Eleanor Bengco-Tan MD, Healthway Medical President; Femina Agcopra, Healthway Medical VP for Clinic Operations; Eva Preciosa Aquino CPA, MSA, PhD Asst., Healthway Medical VP for Finance and Shared Services; Karl Aaron Dimaano, Healthway Medical Asst. VP for Business Development, Lyndon Patrick Dayrit MD, Healthway Medical Medical Director, Golda Camille Go, Healthway Medical Marketing Communications Head; and Elspeth Baker, Reader’s Digest Asia Pacific Marketing Manager.

Healthway Medical, the trusted and most preferred network of mall-based clinics, received the Platinum Most Trusted Brand award under the Ambulatory Clinics category given by Reader’s Digest Asia, on June 4 at the Crowne Plaza.

This is the second consecutive year Healthway was named a Most Trusted Brand by Reader’s Digest. This year’s award was an upgrade from the gold they received last 2013. Healthway sees this great achievement as a validation of all itsefforts. The company treats the award as a motivation to keep its commitment to its “AlagangHealthway” promise to its customers.

“Being a recipient of this award for two straight years is a big accomplishment for the company,” said Healthway Medical President Dr. Eleanor Bengco-Tan. “We will constantly expand and think of more ways to deliver and serve the medical needs of the Philippines to keep up with expectations as a trusted brand.”

Healthway also received the marketing excellence award in the same ceremony. “We had no idea we were going to receive this award this year and we are beyond thrilled,” said Carmie de Leon, Healthwayvice president for sales and marketing. “As a company, we only want to serve our customers better, and knowing that they are more than happy with our services and campaigns is all the acknowledgement we need.”

Every year, Reader’s Digest Asiarecognizes the most trusted brands based on votes sent in by its readers. Winners are determined by six criteria: trustworthiness and credibility, quality, value, understanding of customer needs, innovation, and corporate social responsibility.

Healthway Medical is located in Greenbelt 5, SM North EdsaThe Block, Festival Supermall, Market! Market!,Alabang Town Center, Robinson’s Place Manila and Shangri-La Plaza mall. For more information, visit www.healthway.com.ph.

June does not only mark the start of the school year and the rainy season in the Philippines, but it also has something in store for all the shoppers out there – Lazada Philippines is cracking up this month with a mid-year madness with 5 of the best reasons why you should shop at Lazada.com.ph right now.

Here are the 5 Best Reasons Why You Should Shop in Lazada this month

REASON #1: Sale-lebrate with Lazada this Independence Day

We all know the parades, the speeches, and the floats during Independence Day but this year, while you’re at your break from work or school, Lazada.com.ph offers you the best deals on the hottest items right now. With offerings as much as 80% discount on more than 30,000 lifestyle and electronics products up for grabs, shopping online will be a breeze and right before you know it; your purchases are already at your doorstep. So why be left behind dreaming over those brand new smartphones or accessories when Lazada makes shopping effortless and risk-free for you?

REASON #2: DDD – Discounts Dedicated for Dads this Father’s Day

Why leave all the heart-warming moments with mom when you can put up a smile on your Dad’s face this Father’s Day? Whether you have a classy dad, a techie one, an adventurous one, or even a sporty one, there’s definitely something for every father out there at the country’s online shopping mall - www.lazada.com.ph. Choose from a wide selection of electronics, outdoor gears, accessories or grooming products right at your fingertips – all at prices which won’t break the bank – so you would still have money left for dinner and drinks with dad! With jaw-dropping discounts as much as 70%, you and your dad will definitely feel appreciated when you shop at the country’s online shopping mall. For more updates on our Father’s Day sale, subscribe to our Facebook fanpage by liking www.facebook.com/LazadaPhilippines.

REASON #3: Don’t sweat the swipe!

Who says you need credit cards to buy online? Not with Lazada! Buy anything as you please and pay when the items are delivered at your doorstep – in cash! Simply effortless and risk-free all for you.

REASON #4: Wherever you are, we’re there

No time to go outside to shop? Tired of the swimming aimlessly in a sea of people in the malls? Fret no more, with Lazada’s free nationwide delivery system- for transactions above PhP 1,000, you are sure that no matter where you are, your will receive your purchases right where you want it. Staying abroad? You can still show your loved ones in the Philippines your appreciation by ordering in Lazada and we’ll be sure to send it to them. No fuss, no hassle.

REASON #5: Don’t Like it? We’ll Take it

Purchasing from Lazada is not only effortless but also risk-free. When you purchase items with us and you don’t seem to like them anymore or they do not fit you perfectly, simply send them back to us free of charge and we’ll return your money back. Afraid of buying items that you don’t think will fit you? With Lazada.com.ph, you can purchase items one size smaller and one size bigger and you can fit at the comfort of your home and pay for what you want to keep, if it doesn’t fit, feel free to send them back and we’ll handle the rest.

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