Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Takeda Healthcare Philippines Inc. Partners with Tzu Chi Foundation to Support Treatment of Individuals with Rare Diseases

 

Takeda Philippines and the Tzu Chi Foundation forged a partnership to enhance its Patient Assistance Program, enabling patients with lymphoma and IBD to access essential treatments granting improved health outcomes, and allowing them to pursue a better quality of life. 


Biopharmaceutical leader Takeda Healthcare Philippines Inc. recently inked a partnership with Tzu Chi Foundation to bolster a Patient Assistance Program (PAP) specifically benefiting patients suffering from Hodgkin Lymphoma and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

 

The Tzu Chi Foundation is an international humanitarian organization that has been operating in the Philippines for 27 years. It holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC) and focuses on disaster relief and rehabilitation, education, healthcare, and environmental protection, positively impacting communities in need.

 

In collaboration with the foundation, Takeda will be able to support individuals suffering from rare diseases through its funding assistance. This support enables more patients to start and complete their treatments, enhancing their quality of life and helping them become more productive members of society.

 

“We really look forward to this [partnership] as it sets milestones to make sure that we help those who truly need it. Tzu Chi’s mission to relieve the suffering of those in need and create a better world resonated with us as this is aligned to our mission of providing better health and a brighter future for all. This partnership showcases the potential of combining our expertise, our resources, and with our mutual dedication, that will help address critical health challenges and foster a healthier, more equitable access to healthcare for rare diseases,” said Loreann Villanueva, Country Manager of Takeda in Philippines.

 

Tzu Chi Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez also emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “Tzu Chi’s mission is to help, and this partnership enables us to reach more people in need.”

 

In this partnership, Tzu Chi Foundation and Takeda will co-fund the treatment of patients requiring antibody-drug conjugates for Hodgkin lymphoma or monoclonal antibody medicines for IBD.

 

Interested applicants can enroll in the Takeda PAP through their doctors and complete the necessary assessments. Qualified candidates will then be referred to the Tzu Chi Foundation for further evaluation and financial support.

 

“We have a myriad of problems in the country, and a few NGOs or a few charity organizations will not be able to do it. And I think Takeda is setting an example to maybe other pharma companies and other corporations to also do their share,” said Tzu Chi Foundation Director Peggy Sy-Jiang.

Takeda Philippines and the Tzu Chi Foundation join hands to create a better world for individuals with lymphoma and IBD. [From Left to Right: THPI IBAM Lead John Raymond Gulinao, Tzu Chi Philippines CEO Henry Yuñez, and THPI Country Manager Loreann Villanueva] 

Lymphoma, the most common blood cancer, is often hard to detect early due to symptoms like fever, night sweats, and painless lymph node swelling. In 2020, over 83,000 people worldwide were diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. Since 2022, Takeda Philippines has embarked on several awareness initiatives on lymphoma, such as the “Spot Lymphoma Stop Lymphoma” campaign, collaborating with the Philippine College of Hematology and Transfusion Medicine (PCHTM), the Philippine Society of Medical Oncologists (PSMO), the Philippine Society of Hematology and Blood Transfusion (PSHBT), and the Philippine Society of Pathology (PSP). The campaign aims to educate the public and healthcare professionals, and it includes partnerships with the Philippine Cancer Society to support CD30 biomarker testing for Hodgkin lymphoma and with Health Futures Inc. to provide continuing medical education programs for oncology nurses.

 

Meanwhile, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) causes gastrointestinal inflammation and is increasingly prevalent in Asia due to rapid industrialization. In the Philippines, Crohn’s and Colitis Philippines—an active patient support organization—has over 100 members and continues to grow. Despite being classified as rare and having limited prevalence data, estimates suggest there may be over 300 cases in the country, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and support for those affected by IBD.

 

Takeda reports that less than half of Hodgkin Lymphoma patients are able to initiate treatment, and 45% of IBD patients struggle to afford even one dose of medicine to begin therapy. This partnership allows patients with Hodgkin Lymphoma and IBD to access innovative treatments.

 

Through its patient assistance program, Takeda helps these patients obtain necessary care, fostering a healthier community. These efforts highlight the importance of support for those affected by these conditions.

 

To learn more about Takeda Healthcare Philippines, Inc. and its initiatives, please visit https://www.takeda.com/en-ph/.

 

Disclaimer: This information is available to the public for informational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosing or treating any health problems or diseases. It is not a substitute for consulting a healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider for further advice.

 

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About Takeda

Takeda is focused on creating better health for people and a brighter future for the world. We aim to discover and deliver life-transforming treatments in our core therapeutic and business areas, including gastrointestinal and inflammation, rare diseases, plasma-derived therapies, oncology, neuroscience and vaccines. Together with our partners, we aim to improve the patient experience and advance a new frontier of treatment options through our dynamic and diverse pipeline. As a leading values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, we are guided by our commitment to patients, our people and the planet. Our employees in approximately 80 countries and regions are driven by our purpose and are grounded in the values that have defined us for more than two centuries.

 

Takeda Healthcare Philippines, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited. Founded in 2014, Takeda Healthcare Philippines, Inc. aims to broaden patient access to treatment across the country through sustainable access programs enabling affordable and integrated access solutions for disease areas such as oncology, gastroenterology, rare diseases & vaccines and by strengthening the healthcare system guided by our commitment to Patients, our People and the Planet.

 

For more information, https://www.takeda.com/en-ph/

 

About Tzu Chi Foundation

The Tzu Chi Foundation is an international humanitarian organization dedicated to alleviating suffering and creating a better world through compassion and hope. Founded in Taiwan in 1966 by Dharma Master Cheng Yen, it has grown to become the world’s largest Buddhist humanitarian organization, with over 10 million volunteers active in more than 60 countries. The Foundation has special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC). In the Philippines for 27 years, Tzu Chi has focused on disaster relief and rehabilitation, education, healthcare, and environmental protection, positively impacting communities in need.

 

For more information, https://tzuchi.org.ph/

 

 

REP Caps a Sterling Year with the Highly Anticipated “Going Home to Christmas – A Jose Mari Chan Musical”

 


There’s nothing as merry and bright as Christmas, and Repertory Philippines (REP) is making the season more joyous and meaningful as it premieres its first-ever original jukebox musical showcasing some of Jose Mari Chan’s most popular songs. Going Home to Christmas - A Jose Mari Chan Musical features a special selection of songs from his treasure trove of hits all brought to life by a powerful ensemble composed of talented theater actors and a highly esteemed team of celebrated artists. 


With a limited run from November 29 to December 15 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza, the production showcases 22 of Chan’s most beloved hits such as Christmas in Our Hearts and A Perfect Christmas, newly arranged by acclaimed Musical Director Ejay Yatco. Under the direction of REP Artistic Director Jeremy Domingo and penned by REP stalwarts and Gawad Buhay award winners Luna Griño-Inocian and Robbie Guevara, along with Aliw Awardee Joel Trinidad. The musical weaves together the stories of various characters as they journey home for the holidays and discover the love that they’ve always carried in their hearts along the way. 


From a couple on their second honeymoon to lovelorn best friends even to hardworking OFWs looking forward to being with their family, Going Home to Christmas paints a vivid picture of Pinoy holiday traditions the whole family can cherish. As the characters find their way home for the festive season, audiences will be treated to heartwarming moments filled with laughter, love, and a touch of nostalgia.




Capping off REP’s 2024 season, the production showcases a talented cast led by respected theater actors Carla Guevara-Laforteza as Pat, Lorenz Martinez as Arnie, Noel Rayos as Richard, Neomi Gonzales as Josie, Floyd Tena as JR, Mayen Bustamante-Cadd as Em, Neo Rivera as JD, Justine Narciso as Raya, and Carla Martinez as Lola. Joining them are Alfritz, Roxy Aldiosa, Allan Dale, Johann Enriquez, Naths Everett, Juancho Gabriel, Sean Inocencio, Rafael Jimenez, Gary Junsay, Krystal Kane, Davy Narciso, Sheena Lee, Pappel, Maron Rozelle, Basti Santos, Julia Serad, and Zid Yarcia. Mika Espinosa and Onyl Torres complete the cast as swings. 


The production is supported by Franco Ramos as choreographer, Ohm David as set designer, Hershee Tantiado as costume designer, GA Fallarme as projection designer, Meliton Roxas Jr. as lights designer, and Aji Manalo as sound designer. The property designer is Julia Pacificador, while the production’s dramaturg is Davidson Oliveros. The technical director is D Cortezano, with Patricia Gregorio serving as production manager, Rafa Lubigan as stage manager, and Rio Tanchuling as assistant stage manager.


“I’m honored that REP, which is known for its decades of bringing quality theater to Filipino audiences, selected my body of work as their inspiration for this holiday production, which is their first-ever original jukebox musical,” shares Chan. “I’m always grateful that my music has brought so much joy to a lot of people. I’m excited to see all the stories and elements that REP has weaved together to add new meaning and life to these songs.” 


“Every Filipino knows September 1 means hearing Christmas in Our Hearts on repeat, earning Jose Mari Chan the well-deserved title of Mr. Christmas. His beloved music adds that heartwarming Filipino touch to this season. It’s an honor that REP has received his full blessing to bring his celebrated songs to the stage, allowing audiences to experience the magic and warmth of his music in a new and dynamic way,” says Domingo. 


“We hope to create a memorable experience that resonates with everyone who loves the Christmas season as we do. With Going Home to Christmas – A Jose Mari Chan Musical, we want to showcase why Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year.”


For show buying and ticket inquiries, contact REP at 0966-905-4013 or 0962-691-8540, or send us an email at promotions@repphil.org or sales@repphil.org. 


For updates and show schedules, visit www.repertoryphilippines.ph, or like and follow repertoryphilippines on Face

book and Instagram.

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

All-Angle Water-Resistant HONOR X7c, Splashing on November 6



Leading global smart devices provider, HONOR Philippines, today officially announced the arrival of HONOR X7c on November 6! The newest viral smartphone of HONOR with All-angle water-resistance has been driving a huge buzz online with its daring splash challenges. Catch the launch of HONOR X7c live on Facebook: https://bit.ly/X7cLaunch_PR. 


"We can’t wait to launch this smartphone. We have been known for our durable smartphones with viral drop and smash tests. Now, we are making noise with our water-resistant smartphone, HONOR X7c. Don’t you dare miss it and join us on November 6 as we launch this new HONOR device,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.


All-Angle Water Resistant for Everyday Confidence

 

The HONOR X7c's robust design is further enhanced by an IP64 rating, offering protection against dust and water splashes. Whether it's accidental drops or exposure to environmental elements, the HONOR X7c is engineered to deliver superior protection, making it a reliable companion for users in various settings and situations.


The HONOR X7c is also powered by an equally robust 6000mAh Super Durable Battery, designed to keep up with the demands of modern users. This high-capacity battery offers worry-free usage throughout the day, supporting up to 28.5 hours of online streaming or an impressive 21.5 hours of YouTube video playback.


This new HONOR phone is equipped with a generous 256GB of internal storage, providing ample space for years of precious memories. Complementing this power efficiency is HONOR's innovative RAM Turbo Technology, which effectively provides a 16GB RAM equivalent experience (8GB physical + 8GB virtual).


HONOR X7c is Splashing on November 6


HONOR X7c is set to be launched on November 6. Catch it live on Facebook https://bit.ly/X7cLaunch_PR. For more updates, follow HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms on: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).


Check out HONOR’s wide array of products on www.honor.com/ph and shop at any HONOR Experience and Partner stores or online via Lazada (bit.ly/HONORPHLaz), Shopee (bit.ly/HONORPHShpe) and TikTok Shop (bit.ly/HONORPHTikTok).



About HONOR 

HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better ve

rsion of themselves.

Monday, October 28, 2024

Insular Foundation provides skills training to Haven for Women Residents




The Insular Foundation provided skills training to the residents of Haven for Women to help them acquire practical skills and earn a living.

InLife’s corporate social responsibility arm sponsored a Training on Hairdressing and Nail Care Skills for the residents of Department of Social Welfare and Development – National Capital Region Haven for Women Residents in Muntinlupa City. The Insular Foundation also donated beauty kits complete with tools and supplies to help the women start home service or find jobs in salons.

The skills training was part of the three-year partnership between Insular Foundation, Haven for Women and Muntinlupa City Technical Institute (MCTI).

“Inaasahan namin na magagamit ninyo ang inyong natutunan sa aming handog na Skills Training and beauty kits on Hairdressing and Nail Care, upang paglabas ninyo dito sa Haven for Women ay mayroon kayong baon para simulan muli ng maganda ang inyong mga buhay,” said Ana Soriano, Insular Foundation Executive Director.

MCTI Operations Division Head Antonio Terrenal encouraged the women to use their new skills to gain livelihood. “Huwag nating sayangin ang ganitong pagkakataon na skills training na ibinigay ng MCTI at Insular Foundation. Kayo din ang aani ng pagsasanay nyo dito dahil magagamit nyo ito sa pagbabagong-buhay at paghahanap-buhay.”

Catherine Taleno, Social Welfare Officer III of Haven for Women, thanked Insular Foundation for supporting the government’s goal of empowering women. “The goal of Haven for Women is women empowerment so that our residents who are victims of gender-based violence can be productive members of their communities. Lubos po ang pasasalamat namin sa partnership na ito with MCTI and Insular Foundation. The government cannot do it alone. We need the assistance of our partners to achieve our goal,” she said.

One of the training recipients expressed hope that they can use their skills to earn a living. “Kahit hindi ako nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral ay nagpapasalamat ako kasi natuto akong gumupit. Sana ay huwag tayong panghinaan at mawalan ng pag-asa, at maging matagumpay tayong lahat.

OPPO Leads AI Innovation with World’s First On-Device MoE Implementation, Paving Way for AI Advancements

 


Global leading smart device brand OPPO has achieved a significant breakthrough by becoming the first company to implement the Mixture of Experts (MoE) architecture on-device. This milestone enhances AI processing efficiency, opens new possibilities for more advanced and flexible on-device AI, laying the groundwork for future innovations in AI's integration with mobile hardware.

 

As AI technology continues to evolve, more tasks are being performed on-device. However, large AI models require substantial computational power, which can impact performance, especially on devices with limited hardware resources. In response, OPPO has collaborated with leading chipset providers to implement the MoE architecture on-device to overcome these limitations.

 

The MoE architecture dynamically activates specialized sub-models (“experts”) to handle specific tasks, thereby significantly improving processing efficiency and cutting down computing and data transfer consumption. Lab tests reveal that on-device MoE architecture accelerates AI task speeds by approximately 40%, reducing resource demands and improving energy efficiency. This means faster AI responses, longer battery life and enhanced privacy as more tasks are handled locally on the device.

 


Illustration of MoE Architecture

 

OPPO’s implementation of the MoE architecture on-device is a breakthrough that highlights its advancement in AI innovation. By lowering AI’s computational costs, MoE allows more devices-ranging from flagship to affordable devices-to perform complex AI tasks, accelerating AI’s adoption across the industry. As a result, The MoE architecture on-device opens new opportunities for the industry to make advanced AI capabilities more accessible to a wider audience.

 

Looking ahead, OPPO remains committed to advancing AI technology and making it available to more users. With over 5,860 patent applications in the AI field, OPPO continues to invest heavily in AI R&D. The establishment of OPPO’s AI Center in 2024 serves as a key step in consolidating its AI research efforts, furthering the company’s mission to provide high-quality AI experiences to users worldwide.  Through continued research like MoE and the global rollout of AI-powered features across its smartphone lineup, OPPO aims to extend high-quality AI experiences to a broader audience, ensuring that AI technology becomes more accessible to users across its device categories.

 

 

 


 

 

For more details, please contact:

 

Mark Ordoñez                                                                                                                 Jom Villarta

Assistant PR Manager                                                                                                   Media Relations Strategist

OPPO Philippines                                                                                                          Bridges PR

mark.ordonez@oppo-aed.ph                                                                                         jomarivillaarta@bridgespr.net

                                                                                                                                                                                                

 

About OPPO

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone - “Smiley Face” - in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with ColorOS operating system and internet services. OPPO has footprints in more than 70 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

 

 

 

 

HONOR 200 Now Available via Smart Postpaid Plan 1999

 


HONOR, the leading global smart devices provider, continues to elevate the mobile experience with the highly anticipated availability of the HONOR 200. Starting today, the world-class AI Portrait Master smartphone will be available across Smart stores nationwide, bundled with an exciting offer – a FREE JBL Sound Gear with every subscription!

 

The HONOR 200 promises outstanding performance, superior camera technology, and a sleek design, perfect for work and play. To make this launch even more special, every plan subscription comes with a FREE JBL Sound Gear, delivering immersive sound for music lovers and entertainment enthusiasts alike.

“We are thrilled to introduce the HONOR 200 to our Smart subscribers,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President at HONOR Philippines. “This partnership with Smart ensures that customers not only get a top-tier smartphone but also an exciting sound experience, perfect for their digital lifestyle.”

Exclusive Plans for Premium Connectivity

Customers can now enjoy the powerful HONOR 200 for FREE with Smart’s Signature L Plan 1999. This premium plan offers everything users need to stay connected and enjoy the full features of the HONOR 200.

Smart Signature L Plan 1999 Inclusions:

·    15GB Data for seamless browsing, streaming, and social media

·    Unlimited All-Net Calls to connect with friends and family anytime

·    Unlimited All-Net Texts across all networks

·    150 Minutes of Calls to PLDT

Visit Your Nearest Smart Store Today

With HONOR 200 available in 45 locations nationwide, it has never been easier to upgrade to the latest tech and enjoy unmatched connectivity. Visit the nearest Smart store or go to smart.com.ph for more details.

For more HONOR updates, you may also visit HONOR Philippines’ social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok Shop: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippinesilers/.

 

 

 

 

 

About HONOR 

HONOR is a leading global provider of smart devices. It is dedicated to becoming a global iconic technology brand and creating a new intelligent world for everyone through its powerful products and services. With an unwavering focus on R&D, it is committed to developing technology that empowers people around the globe to go beyond, giving them the freedom to achieve and do more. Offering a range of high-quality smartphones, tablets, laptops and wearables to suit every budget, HONOR’s portfolio of innovative, premium and reliable products enable people to become a better version of themselves.

 

Yes, constipation can cause back pain

 


Slipped disc, pinched nerve, poor posture, osteoporosis, old age, obesity, lifting heavy weights, or the dreaded undetected tumor. When your lower back hurts, you’re likely to attribute your pain to one or more of these common causes.

 

Nobody ever suspects constipation—and why would they? The difficult and infrequent bowel movement can leave you feeling uncomfortably bloated and with a distended tummy. But a dull and aching sensation on your lower back? Don’t discount it, says Carlo M. Cornejo, MD of the Section of Gastroenterology of the top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).

 

“An accumulation of stool in the intestines can manifest as lower back pain. The buildup of stool can put extra pressure on the back muscles, which causes soreness and discomfort,” says the MakatiMed gastroenterologist. “So too can fecal impaction, or dry stool that gets stuck in the column or rectum. This is a complication caused by chronic constipation. It usually happens among older adults.”

 

Common causes of constipation include inadequate fiber, dehydration, too much alcohol, and a sedentary lifestyle. Dr. Cornejo explains that certain medications such as antihistamines, blood pressure medicines, antidepressants, and diuretics can also cause constipation.

 

“How often you pass stool varies from person to person. Some do it twice a day, others are fine with a thrice-weekly bowel movement,” Dr. Cornejo points out. “You’ll know you’re constipated if you experience fullness in the stomach, gassiness, straining when you sit on the toilet, and that dull lower backache.”

 

For the simplest case of constipation, over-the-counter laxatives and stool softeners are always available for a quick fix. But for constipation and backache that persist and recur, it’s a must to visit a doctor as it could be a serious case of fecal impaction and would require additional treatments.

 

“Doctors will perform a digital rectum examination where they insert a gloved and lubricated finger into the anus to check for stool buildup. In some cases, a CT scan may be required if impaction happens deep into the colon,” shares Dr. Cornejo. “Once fecal impaction is confirmed, they will manually remove the impacted stool using their finger. They may also perform enema and inject fluid into the rectum to loosen dry stool.”

 

To prevent constipation and fecal impaction, Dr. Cornejo advises adding more fiber-rich foods like leafy green vegetables, oatmeal, beans and legumes, papaya, prunes, and avocado to your meals; keeping hydrated or adding natural laxatives like tea or coffee for some; and working out regularly. “Some even achieve regularity by adding probiotics to their diet and minimizing their alcohol intake. These tips are especially helpful now we’re in the season of drinking and feasting,” the expert adds. 

 

It may also help to follow a regular bowel movement schedule. Dr. Cornejo says the best time to do it is around 20-40 minutes after eating, ideally after breakfast.

 

“Remember, constipation or lower back pain, especially the chronic type that seems to worsen with time, is not natural, especially if you’ve already taken steps to address them. It’s your body’s way of telling you something,” says Dr. Cornejo. “Don’t tolerate it or mask it with laxatives and pain relievers. See your doctor soonest.”

 

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Personal Collection Recognized for Sustainability Excellence at the Globee and Asia CEO Awards

 


Personal Collection, a proudly Filipino-owned direct-selling company, continues to exemplify its commitment to sustainability as it bags a Gold Globee for CSR Program of the Year in Asia-Pacific at the 2024 Golden Bridge Awards and Circle of Excellence Award for Sustainability Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards 2024.

At the forefront of this success is the company’s #GreenLifeGreatLife Movement, through which Personal Collection has made significant strides in sustainability. Its manufacturing practices and community impact aim to protect the country's natural resources to ensure a greener, better world for Filipinos today and for future generations.

Personal Collection is the first-ever direct-selling company to transition its products to biodegradable packaging with 87% of its products now contained in this eco-friendly material. Moreover, they have planted 245,000 mangroves and trees, removing 165 tons of coastal debris in alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals 12, 14, and 15.

The company has also been making efforts in minimizing carbon emissions as well as electricity, fuel, and water consumption; and enhancing distribution efficiency, among others.

Personal Collection takes a holistic approach to sustainability, combining operational efficiency, responsible manufacturing, regulatory compliance, and various green initiatives. The company actively empowers its thousands of employees and millions of dealers to champion these efforts, demonstrating how collective action can create meaningful societal and environmental change. These recent recognitions reflect how Personal Collection has not only thrived but also become more adaptable in an ever-evolving business landscape, underscoring the growing importance of sustainable practices that continue to expand and make an impact.

The Golden Bridge Awards is a prestigious global awards program that recognizes outstanding achievements in business and innovation across various industries. Meanwhile, the Asia CEO Awards is one of the largest business awards programs in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, recognizing leadership excellence in the region.

To learn more about Personal Collection Direct Selling Inc., visit their:

LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/personalcollection-direct-selling-inc/ Website: https://www.personalcollection.com.ph.


About Personal Collection

Personal Collection Direct Selling, Inc. is one of the leading direct-selling companies in the Philippines with over 650 branches nationwide. With hundreds of quality products in nine different categories, it has given life-changing opportunities to hundreds of thousands of Filipino dealers, empowering them to reach the Great Life for their families.


John Valdevieso from UPLB is the first Philippine representative in the prestigious global Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program

 

John Valdevieso is the first representative from the Philippines to partake in the prestigious Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program. His advocacy is focused on food security and child nutrition.


Everyone dreams of going to an Ivy League school. After all, it represents a high caliber of academic standards, a passion for excellence, and a desire for the best in life.

But knowing that it has the most selective schools in the world, with an average acceptance rate of just 3%, attending an Ivy League school remains to be just a dream to many.

This is not the case, however, for John Valdevieso, a 22-year-old BS Veterinary Studies student at the University of the Philippines Los Baños. John attended Cornell University in New York State for a 12-week program under the Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program.

The program, created in 1989 in the US with the mission to expose veterinary students in their fourth year of veterinary school to biomedical research and career opportunities in academia, government, and related industry, was expanded in 2023 as a pilot to include the Philippines and Japan in their country roster. In more than 30 years, the program has reached more than 5,000 students from North America, Europe, and Asia.

John is the first representative from the Philippines to partake in the prestigious program and brought his advocacy on food security and child nutrition with him. "Many people think that veterinary is all about clinical practice for companion animals, but little do they know that it concerns the food we eat and the public health in general," shares John. "As my focus of study is child nutrition, I was engaged mainly in milk production. I spent most of my time in the commercial dairy farm where they had rotating porters. We would enroll 60 cows each time, and every cow will have 3 minutes milking time which is very efficient compared to the normal standard. This is the kind of technology I wish we could bring to our local farmers.”

As part of the program, scholars conduct hypothesis research projects developed jointly with their assigned mentor and present them at the National Veterinary Scholars Symposium (NVSS). The NVSS is a premier annual scientific colloquium showcasing research accomplishments by veterinary students completing summer research internships. Aside from poster presentations, the symposium conducts keynote speaker sessions on scientific and career-related topics.

Apart from learning new skills, John was also introduced to a world of new possibilities as he went on his program at Cornell University. "I came from the province, so my upbringing was: go to school, find a job, then help your community. This experience opened my eyes to the many opportunities around the world, and helped me realize that I can help as many people if I expose myself to different ways of learning," said John.

Dr. Melvin Cassion, Customer Experience Lead for Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Philippines, expressed his appreciation for the brand's first global scholar grant. "We're deeply honored to have brought one of our Iskolar ng Bayan to such a prestigious university like Cornell. As Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health continues to strengthen the practice of veterinary medicine in the country, we hope to bring more Filipino scholars abroad to expand their learning and introduce to us new and advanced technologies that will help develop the human and animal health correlation."

 

Boehringer Veterinary Program Scholar, John Valdevieso from UP Los Banos meets with Dr. Sukje Sung, Head of Animal Health, Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines.


This scholar’s program is just one of Boehringer Ingelheim’s initiatives that demonstrate our commitment to supporting veterinarians in improving access to veterinary care. Educational resource and training programs such as the recent 8th Companion Animals Technical Forum, among others, are regularly conducted. In 2023, Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines also launched the Animal Health Hub, a free online learning portal designed for veterinarians to have easy access to various learning modules.

To know more about Boehringer Ingelheim's The Veterinary Scholars Program, visit its official website: veterinaryscholars.boehringer-ingelheim.com.

 


 

Boehringer Ingelheim

 

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry’s top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. More than 53,500 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable tomorrow.

 

 

Boehringer Ingelheim - Animal Health business  

 

Boehringer Ingelheim provides innovation for preventing and treating diseases in animals. The company offers a wide range of vaccines, parasite-control products, and medicines for pets, horses, and livestock to veterinarians, animal owners, farmers, and governments. As a leader in animal health, Boehringer Ingelheim values that the health of humans and animals is deeply connected and strives to make a difference for people, animals, and society.  

 

Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com

 

Brew Love This Valentine’s Day with Coffee Makers at 10% Off and Free Premium Coffee Beans From Hanabishi

  This Valentine’s Day, Hanabishi Appliances is spreading the love with its “Meant to Be-an” promotion, which   runs from February 13 to 15 ...