Experts show an effective inhibitory action on the Delta Variant of SARS-COV-2 of Lianhua Qingwen

Metro Manila is experiencing another “serious surge” in COVID- 19 cases according to the OCTA Research Group and has advised the government to impose a two-week lockdown to head off a deadly surge caused by the more transmissible Delta variant.

We are now on our 3rd round of ECQ since the pandemic. New infections in Metro Manila could reach as high as 13,000 a day by the end of August. This is not the time to let our guards down. As a matter of fact, there is a need to urgently respond to the situation with great caution to effectively manage and control the spread of the virus.

Last July 13, 2021, The Department of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Service Institute in partnership with Philippine Archipelago international Trading Corporation hosted a webinar featuring prominent figures in Traditional Chinese Medicine which was instrumental in the pandemic management in China. The very timely webinar, entitled “Learning from the China Experience – Control and Surge Prevention,” highlighted both countries’ responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Given the current surge, we could make very good use of the learnings we garnered from the prominent speakers who attended our webinar. The two most important learnings gathered from all panelists include “Early Intervention” and “Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine with Comprehensive Rehabilitation Treatment.”

The earlier we detect and treat, the better for us. Cooperation is vital to the efficacy of all preventive and control efforts. The implementation of a top-down, side-to-side, and bottom-up approach basically ensures that the paramount objective of having proper communication and information dissemination to the entire community involving all sectors of society is met.

There are many treatments that we can do that were not given much stress throughout the pandemic. Physiological, emotional, and psychological rehabilitation treatments also play a big part in battling this virus. There are three Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM) to treat Covid-19 in China and we are very lucky to have one of these three TCMs registered and widely distributed in the Philippines — Lianhua Qingwen Capsule.

Its anti-viral functions are effective against not just the Delta, but also the Alpha and Beta variants as well. Despite its safety, Lianhua Qingwen’s current classification is Prescription Drug (Rx)—requiring a doctor’s prescription.

Academician Zhang Boli gave emphasis to the importance of medication in the cure, control, and prevention of COVID-19. “Quarantine without medicine is only half the success,” said the Academician.

It was recently reported in the news that “The latest research findings from the team of Professor Yang Zifeng from the State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease in Guangzhou, China, have shown that Chinese medicine Lianhua Qingwen has an effective inhibitory action on the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2.”(https://www.djournal.com/tcm-lianhua-qingwen-shows-stable-in-vitro-antiviral-effect-on-the-delta-variant-expert/article_0e45c492-b497-5198-ac78-e3d97f454d19.html). In fact, its anti-viral functions are effective against not just the Delta, but also the Alpha and Beta variants as well.

Of course, getting vaccinated is imperative and recommended for protection against the virus. However, it will take more time before we reach herd immunity. Vaccine supplies need to catch up with the demand.

Meanwhile, we still need to follow the preventive measure of social distancing, wearing face masks and shields, washing hands frequently, using sanitizer alcohol, and keeping healthy by exercising, getting sunshine, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep. But should we catch the COVID-19 virus despite observing safety protocols, after all the Delta variant is said to be airborne, we must go for early treatment.

As Dr. Zhang Boli said, quarantine + medication is key. Do not wait until your symptoms become worse before taking Lianhua Qingwen, take it at the onset of symptoms and recover quickly. Remember the importance of the Philippine government’s PDITR +V strategy which is Prevent, Detect, Isolate, Treat, Reintegrate and Vaccinate, which is sure to cut off the transmission chain according to Contact Tracing Czar, Baguio Mayor Benjie Magalong. And of course, with the cooperation of all the Filipinos, we can do our share to help control and manage the surge of COVID-19.

As we go through another hard lockdown because of the Delta Variant, we hope that all this information will come to good use in our own lives, companies, and organization, and on a macro scale for local and national governments. This is a war between an elusive virus and man.  And if we all work together we will succeed and win this war against COVID-19.

Despite its safety, Lianhua Qingwen’s current classification is Prescription Drug (Rx)—requiring a doctor’s prescription. Prescription-holding consumers may purchase in all Mercury Drug Stores, Southstar Drug, Watsons, Rose Pharmacy, and TGP nationwide and other pharmacies at a suggested retail price of P288.00/box (24 capsules/box).

For more information on Lianhua Qingwen, visit www.philarchipelago.com or call tel. no. (02) 8361-7491 to 98 loc. 844.

#LianhuaQingwen #COVID19 #pandemic #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Practicing mindfulness to combat stress using the “SMPLE” method

Practicing mindfulness to combat stress contributes to better emotional control, improved health, increased resilience, enhanced productivity, and healthier relationships with others.

On the seventh episode of TAYO Naman! (Tulong, Alaga, Yakap at Oras para sa mga Tagapagtaguyod ng Edukasyon), a webinar series of the Department of Education (DepEd) and Globe, speaker Carolyn Tongco advised educators that one way to manage stress, aside from asking for professional help, is through the practice of mindfulness. Tongco is a Consultant Art Therapist of the Philippine Mental Health Association member, Creative Director at Creative Passion Path, and a Registered Expressive Art Consultant/Educator (REACE).

Tongco discussed that for Master Jon Kabat-Zin “is the practice of the non-judgmental awareness in the present moment and a non-reactive, non-judgmental, and open-hearted observation.”

Using Mindfulness, Tongco said people could learn how to regulate the brain to stop the automatic emotional stress responses. She suggested using the “SMPLE” method in order to do this:

S — Stop. Instead of becoming wrapped up in a stressful situation, just stop and take a moment to breathe.

M — Mindful breathing. Take deep breaths. It relaxes the body and helps calm the brain.

P — Pay attention. Assess where stress is happening.

L — Look inside and reflect. Know what is causing the stress.

E — Effective response. Think of the right response or the kindest way to treat oneself and other people.

Tongco added that mindfulness could be practiced every day, not just during stressful situations. Anyone may opt to do mindfulness anytime, even while working, eating, or having a conversation.

She suggested designing one’s mindful moment routine that may be applied during mundane activities such as washing the dishes, making the bed, watering the plants, among others. One must bring full attention to the activity and do it repetitively, just like a routine.

TAYO Naman! is an online Mental Health and Psychosocial Support program designed to help teachers, non-teaching personnel, and parents learn about self-care, wellness, and resiliency.

The latest session focused on “Practicing Mindfulness to Manage Stress.” It was by the DepEd School Division of Cavite City, with Project Development Officer II Patricia Anne Garcia as host, Senior Education Program Specialist Estrella Gonzales as a facilitator, and Teacher Shiela Lee, Principal Randie Salonga, and Medical Officer, Dr. Erwin Bucu.

The 14-part webinar series is led by the DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction Management Services (DepEd-DRRMS) and the Bureau of Human Resource and Organizational Development-Employee Welfare Division (BHROD-EWD) in collaboration with Globe’s Global Filipino Teachers Series on Psychosocial Support Services, Philippine Mental Health Association Inc., and MAGIS Creative Spaces.

The webinars are held every Friday until August 20, 2021, from 8:30 to 10:00 am and streamed live on DepEd Philippines, DepEd DRRMS, and  Globe Bridgecom.

Globe strongly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals such as UN SGD No. 3 on good health and well-being and UN SDG No. 4 on inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Globe is committed to upholding the United Nations Global Compact principles and contributing to 10 UN SDGs.

To learn more about how to create a #GlobeofGood, visit www.globe.com.ph/about-us/sustainability.html.

#webinars #Globe #DepEd #mindfulness #stressmanagement #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

 

 

 

How to deal with emotional crisis, mental health issues amidst the pandemic

Filipinos have been ranked third among the most optimistic consumers across 14 economies in Asia-Pacific. However, depression and other mental health conditions have been on the rise since the pandemic hit last year. In fact, New Good Feelings (NGF) Mindstrong’s 24/7 suicide hotline HOPELINE alone received a total of 30,452 calls in 2020 — a 250% surge compared to 8,610 calls in 2019.

HOPELINE was created in 2012 with Globe as its technology partner. To reach out to more people in need of immediate crisis intervention to de-escalate their heightened emotions and give guidance and information during their crucial moments, especially in these trying times, Globe and NGF expanded their partnership to include telehealth service integrator HealthNow.

HealthNow is a mobile application that helps patients conveniently consult with a doctor, buy medicine for delivery, and soon, schedule clinic appointments without leaving their homes. Currently, the app has over 600 doctors from various specializations nationwide. It also recognizes and accepts PWD/SC discounts for consultations and pharmacy transactions. The app may be downloaded from Play Store for Android and App Store for iOS. HealthNow is a joint venture between 917Ventures, the country’s largest corporate venture builder wholly owned by Globe, and AC Health.

“Our vision in HealthNow is to make healthcare accessible for every Filipino in a tap. Mental health support continues to be very critical at this time, and so we’re happy to be renewing our collaboration with NGF to ensure our users get the right care they need when they need it most,” said Beia Latay, HealthNow CEO.

Through HealthNow, Globe and TM subscribers may quickly call the NGF HOPELINE for FREE anytime they want to talk to someone. HOPELINE can be found under the Urgent Help button on the welcome page of the HealthNow app.

Globe and NGF are optimistic that with an additional channel for customers to access and seek help, those undergoing an emotional crisis will be more encouraged to call HOPELINE.

“We understand how difficult it is for many people with depression to open up because of the stigma that goes with it. At this time, when we are trying to cope with social restrictions and the uncertainties of COVID-19, it becomes even more necessary to have access to professional help. Globe is empowering its customers who are struggling with mental health to do just that,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability Officer and SVP for Corporate Communications.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 264 million people of all ages suffer from depression globally.  Yearly, close to 800,000 people die due to suicide, the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year-olds.  Depression is also a leading cause of disability worldwide.

The integration of HOPELINE in HealthNow is part of Globe’s efforts to support mental health awareness in the Philippines. Aside from conducting mental health webinars, it also launched Hope Bank, an online support community particularly for frontliners and patients suffering from COVID-19 and other illnesses.

Download HealthNow on Android and iOS or dial 2919 for HOPELINE.

Globe is committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals such as UN SDG No. 3, which ensures healthy lives and promotes well-being for all ages. The company also supports the UN Global Compact principles and contributes to 10 UN Sustainable Development Goals.

To know more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Featured photo courtesy of Polina Zimmerman on Pexels

#HealthNow #Globe #mentalhealth #emotionalcrisis #pandemic #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Araneta Group vaccinates 100% of employees, personnel vs. COVID-19

The Araneta Group continues to ensure the safety of its staff and customers as it vaccinates all of its 3,000 office-based employees and frontline personnel.

The free inoculation for Araneta Group employees and personnel was administered in batches since May 2021 through the arrangements of J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF).

“We are very pleased with the outcome of our internal COVID vaccination program. The company made sure that everyone will be covered and will receive their jabs as soon as possible,” JAAF Executive Director Diane Romero said.

Vaccination – Smart Araneta Theater

Romero also acknowledges the support of Quezon City’s local government in this initiative. As the company waits for the full arrival of its vaccines, the LGU extended its vaccination program to Araneta Group frontliners and other businesses within Araneta City.

“The vaccination program is part of Araneta Group’s goal of providing a safe and healthy live, work, dine, shop, and play environment at the City of Firsts. We are not just guaranteeing the safety of our own people, but we are also assuring the public that they can visit any Araneta City property safely and with ease,” she said.

Aside from the free vaccination, the Araneta Group continues to conduct sanitation and disinfection in all Araneta City properties. Social distancing measures and other health and safety protocols continue to be strictly implemented. Individuals are still required to wear facemasks and face shields, and precautionary measures in entrances such as temperature checks, alcohol dispensers, and foot baths remain.

The Araneta City malls have also received safety seal certifications from the QC LGU following their strict compliance with minimum public health standards.

Since the pandemic hit the country last year, the Araneta Group prioritized to make its businesses safe for its employees and customers with its slogan “Safety First at the City of Firsts”.

#AranetaGroup #vaccination #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Happy Life Organics ( HLO ) Inaugurates Warehouse in Bulacan

Just recently, Happy Life Organics ( HLO ) inaugurated their newly built warehouse located at 1634 Mayumi St., Santa Cruz, Santa Maria, Bulacan.

HLO is a Philippine-based company that promotes innovative and eco-friendly solutions for your home, pets, and unwanted pests.  They are the neem authority of which their success comes from the effective use of the health benefits of this neem tree extract.  Previously available only in India, now, the neem tree extract can be sourced out from Santa Maria, Bulacan.

Happy Life newly-inaugurated warehouse in Santa Maria, Bulacan

With high hopes for the rest of the year and the years to come, they are strengthening their distribution base to cater to the needs of the market specifically in promoting a chemical-less shift in the way the market use cleaning products at home and in different industries.  What’s more, they also adapted eco-friendly practices by creating environmentally sustainable products.  From the all-natural ingredients up to their biodegradable packaging, they want their consumers to have that peace of mind knowing that aiming for a happy life can be achieved with them.

Pertinent to their expansion, they recently launched their Waterless Shampoo for pets, a quicker, safer, innovative, and plant bath alternative against chemical actives in shampoo for pets, saving 70% of grooming time.

Available in their company website: www.happylifeph.com LAZADA, Shopee, and ZALORA: Happy Life Organics FB and IG stores: @happylifeorganicss 2 Physical Stores: Quezon City: 50 Esteban Abada in Waze Bulacan HQ Address: 1634 Mayumi St, Santa Cruz, Santa Maria, Bulacan Also available in top Vet Clinics in the country.

Featured photo: From left to right Dexter Argonia (Facility Maintenance Officer), Florante Padilla (Facility Maintenance Assistant), Michael Madulin (Logistics Head), Joe Sevilla (President and Founder), Chay Sevilla (Vice President and Finance Head), Rose Pangan (Facility Head), Rosalyn Pangan (Facility Manager), Ardie Dela Rama (Logistics Supervisor)

#HappyLifeOrganics #happylifeph #newwarehouse #Bulacan #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

COVID-19 response amidst local transmission of Delta Variant

Health experts locally and abroad have reiterated the importance of getting vaccinated as an additional layer of protection against COVID-19. It’s important to complete the required two doses for maximum protection.

The Department of Health (DOH) further emphasized the need to continuously enforce strict border control measures and intensify local COVID-19 responses with the local transmission of the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant in the Philippines.

Following the phylogenetic analysis conducted by the University of the Philippines – Philippine Genome Center, and case investigation by the DOH Epidemiology Bureau and the regional and local epidemiology and surveillance units, clusters of Delta variant cases were seen to be linked to other local cases, therefore, exhibiting local transmission.

Photo courtesy of DOH

Upon detection of local cases with the Delta variant, the DOH explained that the government has initiated enhanced COVID-19 response in areas where Delta variant cases were detected through the implementation of the four-door strategy.

Both the national and local governments have been continuously working together to prevent, detect, isolate, treat, and re-integrate response strategies and increase the country’s health system capacity to be able to manage cases.

The government is also preparing for enough supplies of COVID-19 medicines, oxygen tanks, and critical care equipment in hospitals and the augmentation of human resources.

Moreover, the public is advised to avoid unnecessary travels and gatherings.

DOH urges LGUs to shorten the duration of case detection to isolation and immediately isolate symptomatic patients, and ramp up their vaccination and prioritize the senior citizens and people with underlying conditions.

Being vaccinated as an additional layer of protection

It was previously reported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that out of 8.4 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines administered, as of June 20, only 0.6% reported reactions and no hospitalization and deaths due to COVID 19 were observed after more than 14 days of getting the second dose.

The performance of COVID-19 vaccines in the country as initially reported by the FDA supports the results of the clinical trials and real-world data reported by several countries that vaccines prevent hospitalization and deaths. Health experts locally and abroad have reiterated the importance of getting vaccinated as an additional layer of protection against COVID-19.

The DOH and FDA emphasized the importance of completing the required two (2) doses, as maximum protection sets in two (2) weeks after getting the second dose.

659,029 was the highest number of jabs in a day recorded last July 27, 2021.

DOH and FDA remind the public to not let their guards down — continue practicing the minimum public health standards, adhere to safety protocols, and encourage one another to register and get their vaccines as soon as possible.

The DOH further calls on everyone to work together to beat the COVID-19 pandemic.

Source: https://doh.gov.ph/

Featured photo courtesy of Gustavo Fring on Pexels

#COVID19response #DOH #FDA #DeltaVariant #vaccination #Philippines #pandemic #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

Healthcare Roundup Overseas: On digital life insurance and first-in-market instant claims service

Blue, the first digital life insurer in Hong Kong, has announced recently the launch of its WeMedi Top Up (Outpatient) Protector (the “Plan”), a market-first1 top-up outpatient plan in the digital life insurance market to subsidize existing outpatient plans to help customers alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses.

Meanwhile, FWD Hong Kong (“FWD”) has expanded its first-in-market instant claims service on its one-stop FWD Moments mobile app (formerly eServices app) to cover hospitalization claims in addition to personal accident claims. Customers holding designated FWD’s individual medical insurance plans can simply submit their hospitalization claims through FWD Moments to enjoy instant claim review, and select to be paid for approved claims via the Faster Payment System (“FPS”) instantly, at any 7-Eleven convenience stores at MTR stations, or through direct bank transfer.

 

  • Blue Launches WeMedi Top Up (Outpatient) Protector:  A Digital Life Insurance Market-First Top Up Outpatient Plan

Always keeping customer needs at the forefront, the launch of Blue’s WeMedi Top Up (Outpatient) Protector is in response to the rise of Hong Kong’s doctor consultation fees.

According to HKSAR Government statistics, patients are now paying a median net consultation fee of HK$2602 per consultation made with a private medical practitioner in Hong Kong, potentially adding up to thousands of dollars a year.

The Plan allows customers to top up their existing group or personal outpatient reimbursement insurance plans by other insurers.  Customers can be subsidized for their outstanding medical expenses after being reimbursed by other insurers, helping them to reduce their protection gap.

Mr. Charles Hung, CEO and Executive Director of Blue, stated, “We are proud to launch yet another digital market-first solution that helps our customers minimize their expenses and make their lives easy. Our WeMedi Top Up (Outpatient) Protector plan is a prime example that Blue is dedicated to creating products that are flexible, easy, and affordable, allowing our customers to feel comfortable when it comes to protecting their health. This is something that, in the current climate, is becoming increasingly more important.”

In addition, Blue has unveiled a faster and simplified online application and claim process for the Plan. The online application process takes as fast as five minutes and personal medical reports are not required for submission. With the streamlined claim process, customers can simply provide a copy of medical receipts and relevant claim statements from their insurer to make a claim. They can also receive reimbursement via FPS in as fast as one hour4.

Apply for WeMedi Top Up (Outpatient) Protector now, customers can enjoy a discount on the first-year premium. Customers are also entitled to a Complimentary COVID-19 antibody test5 upon successful application of Standard or Premium level of the Plan.

For details of WeMedi Top Up (Outpatient) Protector, please click here.

 

  • FWD expands instant claims service to cover hospitalization claims of up to HK$50,000

The upgraded instant claims service allows customers holding designated individual medical insurance plans to make instant hospitalization claims of up to HK$50,000 via the FWD Moments app on a wide array of medical treatment expenses such as Surgeon’s Fee, Anaesthetist’s Fees, Operating Theatre Charges, Daily Room & Board, Daily Attending Physician’s Hospital Visit, Specialist Consultation, and Miscellaneous Hospital Charges. All eligible claims applications submitted through FWD Moments are processed instantly by a cutting-edge AI assessment engine, allowing customers of approved claims to receive payments via their selected means instantaneously.

Samuel Cheung, Chief Technology and Operations Officer, FWD Hong Kong & Macau, said, “At FWD we strive to continuously enhance our customer experience through technology and innovation. By simplifying the claims process and making it more transparent, we hope to create a refreshing, positive, and convenient insurance journey for our customers.”

Hospitalization and personal accident claims[1] account for about 95% of FWD’s life insurance business’ claims cases, in which about 60% of hospitalization claims have been within HK$50,000.

Since the instant claims service on FWD Moments was launched last December, overall usage has jumped more than 350%, with more than 90% of these instant claims paid via FPS or in cash at 7-Eleven MTR stores. Customers are also increasingly selecting to receive claims payments via FPS as Hong Kong continues to become more digitally enabled.

1 Personal Accident claims: The instant claims service for personal accident remains applicable to claim amounts within HK$3,000. About 60% of personal accident claims applications received by FWD have been within HK$3,000.

For more information about FWD Hong Kong & Macau please visit  www.fwd.com.hk  and  www.fwd.com.mo.

#Blue #FWD #HongKong #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Vaccination center support initiative for a comfortable vaccination experience

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, rolls out the Vaccination center support initiative starting with Makati City, and will also roll it out in other cities in Metro Manila. This initiative is part of Shopee Bayanihan that aims to encourage Filipinos to get vaccinated and provide them with a more comfortable vaccination experience.

Shopee launched its vaccination center support initiative in Makati City last June 28 by providing  Makatizens food and health kits from Shopee and its partner brands under Shopee Mall.  Shopee also turned over ten units of Symphony Air Coolers to Makati in the presence of Mayor Abigail Binay and Makati City Administrator Atty. Claro Certeza.

The package given to Maktizens and frontliners included snacks from Del Monte, Perfetti Van Melle, Dutchmill Soy, Monde Nissin, and Rebisco; bottled water from Hope in a Bottle; and health kits from Mighty Clean.

According to Martin Yu, Shopee Philippines’ Director, “It is of utmost importance that we get as many Filipinos vaccinated in the soonest possible time and as always, Shopee finds ways to extend assistance where we can. At Shopee, it is our goal to encourage more people to get vaccinated and we are pleased to partner with the Makati City Local Government for providing its citizens with a comfortable vaccination experience. ”

Mayor Abigail Binay said, “We are more than happy to team up with Shopee for the Shopee Bayanihan Vaccination Center Support initiative. As more Filipinos get vaccinated for their protection, we will continue to find ways to serve the people better through partnerships with organizations like Shopee.”

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play. Check out with ShopeePay to enjoy more great deals on Shopee.

#Shopee #MakatiCity #MayorAbigailBinay #MartinYu #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

500 PGH frontliners for COVID-19 given essential aid and connectivity by Globe and the Ayala Group of Companies

Globe shows appreciation for healthcare workers who remain at the forefront of the country’s battle against the COVID-19 pandemic through additional cash, connectivity, and in-kind donations to the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).

PGH was appointed by the Department of Health (DOH) as an exclusive COVID-19 hospital and remains the largest referral hospital in the country. Since the global health crisis broke out in 2020, Globe has donated P22 million to PGH to equip frontliners with much-needed essentials such as personal protective equipment (PPE) to handle COVID-19 patients.

As a part of the continued support to PGH, the #BrigadangAyala initiative led by Globe celebrates the frontliners in three Metro Manila designated COVID-19 hospitals, including the National Children’s Hospital and Tondo Medical Center. With this, the company provided 50 MyFi devices to medical frontliners who are staying in PGH dorms or have living arrangements away from their families to lessen the risks of exposure.

“We truly appreciate this support for our frontliners who continue to make sacrifices for the benefit of our kababayans. Though the hospital is equipped with WiFi, providing connectivity directly to the frontliners will allow them to stay connected even when off duty,” said Dr. Telesforo Gana, Jr., President, PGH Medical Foundation, Inc.

Generika Drugstore, an AC Health company and the pioneer in retail generic medicines in the Philippines, provided 500 immunity booster packages of Actimed Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Actimed Paracetamol, and Actimed throat lozenges for PGH frontliners.

“We at Generika recognize and appreciate the valiant efforts of our frontliners in their continuous service at the forefront of our battle against this pandemic. As we find ways to continue to provide Filipinos access to quality affordable medicines in these challenging times, we are honored to be part of this effort to provide them added care and protection,” said Atty. Yet Abarca, President, and CEO, Generika Drugstore.

In addition, Globe’s parent firm Ayala Corporation, through Ayala Foundation, is donating P500,000 to the PGH Medical Foundation, Inc., while the telco pursues fundraising efforts through Globe Rewards and GCash. Globe has also given an entertainment package consisting of three smart TVs and Home Prepaid WiFi to the hospital’s Cancer Pediatric wards.

“As the country gradually adapts to the changing landscape of our day-to-day reality, we need to show our frontliners that their service is valued. Through connectivity support, we hope to extend to them our gratitude for the work that they do,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability Officer and SVP for Corporate Communications.

#BrigadangAyala is yet another manifestation of the strong partnership of PGH and Globe through the years, starting with the rehabilitation of the hospital’s Hematology-Oncology clinic back in 2016.

Globe further ramped up its fundraising activities after a fire hit sections of PGH last May 15 that displaced disadvantaged patients.

Globe customers may easily help by donating their Rewards points through the Globe Rewards app. Each Reward point is equivalent to P1. Download the Globe Rewards app and click on the Let’s Help PGH banner. Select the corresponding denomination then press REDEEM NOW. A confirmation message will be sent by 4438 upon successful donation.

Customers may also help via GCash’s Pay Bills option.  Just tap Others and select #FightCOVID19.

Globe strongly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly UN SDG No. 3 on good health and well-being and UN SDG No. 9, which highlights the roles of infrastructure and innovation as crucial drivers of economic growth and development. Globe is committed to upholding the United Nations Global Compact principles and contributing to 10 UN SDGs.

To know more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

#BrigadangAyala #PGH #Globe #FightCOVID19 #donations #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

PH Pandemic Updates: More COVID-19 variants detected in ongoing biosurveillance

The Department of Health (DOH), the University of the Philippines – Philippine Genome Center (UP-PGC), and the University of the Philippines – National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH) report the detection of additional cases of two Delta (B.1.617.2) variant cases, 132 Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant cases, 119 Beta (B.1.351) variant cases, and three Theta (P.3) variant cases based on the latest whole genome sequencing report.

On DELTA VARIANT Cases:

The two new Delta variant cases are Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) with travel history from Saudi Arabia. Both arrived in the Philippines on May 29, 2021, and have completed the requisite 10-day isolation period. They have been discharged from the quarantine facility after being tagged as recovered.

On ALPHA VARIANT Cases:

Of the additional 132 Alpha variant cases detected, 125 are local cases, one is an ROF, and six are being verified as to whether these are local or ROF cases. Based on the case line list, 15 cases have died and 117 cases have been tagged as recovered. The Alpha variant cases now total 1,217.

On BETA VARIANT Cases:

Of the additional 119 Beta variant cases detected, 111 are local cases, two are ROFs, and six cases are being verified as to whether these are local or ROF cases. Based on the case line list, three cases are currently active, 104 cases have been tagged as recovered, and 12 cases have died. The total Beta variant cases are now 1,386.

On THETA VARIANT Cases:

The additional three Theta variant cases are local cases and have already been tagged as recovered.

Currently, the Theta variant is not identified as a variant of concern (VOC) since more data is needed to conclude whether the variant will have significant public health implications.

The DOH reminds all fully vaccinated individuals to continue following the prescribed minimum public health standards to ensure that transmission of COVID-19 is minimized.

Mass gatherings are especially discouraged regardless of vaccination status, as these are the main drivers of outbreaks among unvaccinated persons in countries with relatively high vaccination rates.

The DOH is also committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that border control measures are strictly implemented.

Source: https://doh.gov.ph/

Featured photo courtesy of Gustavo Fring on Pexels

#COVID19Variants #pandemiclife #Philippines #DOH #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph