CAMELLA AWARDED AS READER’S DIGEST MOST TRUSTED BRAND FOR THE 5th TIME

CAMELLA WINS FIFTH READER’S DIGEST MOST TRUSTED BRAND AWARD - Camella, the flagship brand of Vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc., has been recognized, for the fifth time, as Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand (Property Developer category). The group received a Gold Award, a distinction signifying that it has excelled significantly higher than its competitors based on the results of the Trusted Brand Survey. Receiving the award from Reader’s Digest Advertising and Retail Sales Director Sheron White (second from left) are: Vista Land Chief Marketing Officer Red Rosales and Camella Managing Directors Mary Lee Sadiasa and Ric Pallesco

Reader’s Digest  recognized Camella, the flagship brand of Vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc., as the Most Trusted Brand under the Property Developer Category for the 5th time.

During the awarding ceremony organized by Reader’s Digest Asia-Pacific at the Marco Polo Hotel in Ortigas, Pasig City recently, Camella was handed a Gold Award, a distinction signifying that it has excelled significantly higher than its competitors based on the results of the Trusted Brand Survey conducted by global research company Catalyst.

“Emerging as ‘Most Trusted Brand’ for five years in a row is a validation that Camella is successful in its mission to provide its home buyers not merely residences but upgraded lifestyles in its communities,” said Camella Managing Director Mary Lee Sadiasa, who received the award, together with Vista Land Chief Marketing Officer Red Rosales and Camella Managing Director Ric Pallesco.

“We owe Camella’s success to the trust and loyalty of our stakeholders. Rest assured that we will remain steadfast to our mandate of making quality homes attainable for every Filipino. Camella will continue to innovate to give the best living experience to our homebuyers,” added Camella President Jerylle Luz Quizmundo.

Camella received the ultimate seal of consumer approval after survey participants, composed of Reader’s Digest subscribers, and randomly selected consumers, gave Camella high ratings on six attributes: Trustworthiness, Quality, Value, Understanding of Customer Needs, Innovation and Social Responsibility. The consumer polls, in which 7,500 individuals were selected as participants, were conducted across five markets in Asia, namely, Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Camella has redefined home development in the Philippines by creating ‘communicities’, innovative master-planned city developments, where Filipinos can raise and nourish their families and their tomorrows, with vast properties that offer community structures and commercial establishments closer to a city than a mere residential village. It is one of the leading fully integrated property developers in the country that caters to affordable to mid-income segment of the market. To date, the group has built more than 300,000 homes and maintains a powerful presence in Mega Manila and 36 other key provincial destinations and 95 cities and municipalities, indisputably the real estate brand with the widest geographic reach.

For more information about Camella, call their hotline at 02-Camella (226-3552) or 09178576494. Keep up with the latest Camella information, news, events and announcements through www.camella.com.ph. Like “Camella Official” on Facebook and follow “@CamellaOfficial” on Twitter and Instagram.

International Thyroid Awareness Week Celebration + Things To Know About Thyroid Disorders

“Catching Butterflies: Spotting the Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders in Children” is the theme of this years' International Thyroid Awareness Week Celebration which was culminated by Merck Inc. and ETC 2nd Avenue at the Fisher Mall Event center last May 28, 2016. The butterfly theme was chosen to represent the thyroid, which is a butterfly shaped organ found at the base of our necks. 

Little did we know, millions of Filipinos are affected by thyroid disorders, yet very few are aware of them. In a study conducted by the Philippine Society for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism in 2012, it showed that one in 11 Filipino adults has goiter, and around one in 12 Filipino adults suffers from some form of thyroid disease. Around 8 in every 1000 children worldwide are affected by thyroid disease but only a handful get properly diagnosed and treated.

The “Catching Butterflies: Spotting the Symptoms of Thyroid Disorders in Children” event aims to increase the awareness of the thyroid and the disorders that can affect children and adults. This is because if thyroid hormone imbalances are left undiagnosed and untreated, they can have harmful effect on a child’s brain development, growth and physical maturity. The awareness campaign showed that thyroid disorders are treatable with early screening and proper treatment.

During the event, a panel of experts from the Philippines Society for Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, the Philippine Thyroid Association, and the Iodine Global Network conducted a talk on how to recognize and treat thyroid disorders. They also conducted a Free Doctor's Consultation and Thyroid Screening.

The event was not only educational but also fun-filled, aside from the beautiful decorations there were also many other activities that both children and parents enjoyed together. 

There was as on-the spot art competition.

Butterfly face painting

 Butterfly Cookie Art. Took home some for the kids and they liked it!

There were also butterfly clay art, dance performances, Hypo- Butterfly and Hyper-Butterfly Mascots and so much more. How I wish I brought the kids along, I'm sure they would have loved it! 

ETC 2nd Avenue also had a booth where attendees took their photos on the photo wall, posted it to their social media accounts using the hashtags #thyroidawareness and #wearebraver, have it printed at the booth and instantly win a prize. I participated and won a Flawless Stem cell Cleanser, yey! 

There are a lot of people who may have thyroid disorders, but aren’t even aware until it is too late. It is important to have one’s thyroid checked as early as possible, especially if there is family history of the disease, or during pregnancy. Prevention, proper information and early detection will always be better than cure that comes too late.

Here are some important things you should know about Thyroid Disorders:

1. What is Thyroid? 

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck. The thyroid produces and stores thyroid hormones, which are essential to the normal development of the body, as well as its normal metabolism and function. Thyroid hormones affect practically all systems of the body, from the brain, to the heart, to the stomach, the reproductive system, etc.

2. What are the difference between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism?

• Hypothyroidism is when your thyroid doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. Thus, metabolism is slowed. Patients typically complain of weight gain (even without increasing appetite), cold intolerance, chronic fatigue, sadness/depression, slowed speech patterns, slow heart rate, dry/brittle hair, constipation, and menstrual irregularities.

• Hyperthyroidism is when there is too much thyroid hormone, and Symptoms are typically opposite that of hypothyroidism. Patients will note weight loss, sweating, insomnia and irritability, fast heart rate and palpitations, hair loss, diarrhea, and menstrual irregularities.

 3. How can thyroid disorders be diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made by a physician based on the results of blood tests- TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and thyroid hormone levels in the blood.

4. How to asses your own Thyroid?

Facing a mirror, lift your chin up and inspect your neck. Swallow, and if you see a mass at the base of the neck moving up and down, you may need to consult your doctor for goiter.

Also be aware of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, so you can consult a doctor when you note you have them.

5. How can hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism be treated?

• Hypothyroidism is treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

• Hyperthyroidism is treated with anti-thyroid drugs, which lower the level of thyroid hormones in the body.

6. Should children be screened for Thyroid problems?

Parents should be aware of the symptoms of thyroid disorders so they can bring their child to the doctor. If they notice mood and behavior changes, difficulty learning, and other signs, consult a doctor.

7. Should pregnant women undergo screening for thyroid problems?

It is recommended that women get screened for thyroid disorders if:

• previous history of thyroid disorders, thyroid surgery
• above 30
• family history of thyroid disorders
• previous history of pregnancy loss or difficulty getting pregnant
• living in iodine deficiency areas

8. How can Thyroid disorders affect pregnant women and the unborn baby?

Thyroid disorders, if untreated, can lead to negative outcomes for the mother and child. Conditions like eclampsia and placenta previa can occur. Furthermore, the child might have developmental abnormalities, especially with mental and cognitive abilities. Children with mothers who are iodine deficient or hypothyroid can have lower IQs.

Ask your doctor about thyroid screening if you are pregnant.

9. What type of foods are good for the Thyroid?

People are encouraged to take iodized salt, to avoid iodine deficiency, the most common cause of goiter.

10. Is Thyroid Disorder hereditary?

There is a hereditary component to thyroid problems. If you have a relative who has thyroid disorders, you should regularly have yourself checked.

The event is organized by Merck Inc. in collaboration with ETC 2nd Avenue for the International Thyroid Awareness Week Celebration

Merck is the world’s oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company with headquarters in Darmstadt, Germany. Merck is a leading science and technology company that works to further develop technologies that improve and enhance life – from biopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer or multiple sclerosis, cutting-edge systems for scientific research and production, to liquid crystals for smartphones and LCD televisions.

Taco Bell's Gordita Supreme: A Tasty twist to your favorite taco

Taco Bell puts a tasty twist to our favorite taco! Are you ready to take your taco experience to the next level?

Presenting, Gordita Supreme! A mouth-watering treat that's shaped and stuffed like your favorite taco but it’s not your typical taco. Made with seasoned beef, fresh shredded lettuce, cool sour cream and diced tomatoes all cradled inside a warm pillowy flatbread, Gordita Supreme presents taco lovers with a tasty twist to their everyday favorite.

Last Sunday, Jaear, Athena and I got to try the Gordita Supreme at Taco Bell Alabang center. It is available at P99 a la carte and you can mix it with nachos and a 16oz drink for P149. 

You shouldn't miss this delectable offering, it's available at Taco Bell Alabang Town Center, Trinoma and Gateway Mall. Hurry as Taco Bell’s Gordita Supreme is available until July 11, 2016 only.

Learn more about Taco Bell’s latest offering Gordita Supreme, and try other delectable treats that you’re sure to love only at Taco Bell! Visit the official website at www.tacobell.com.ph, or check out their official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tacobellPHL, follow @TacoBellPHL on Twitter and Instagram, and check the official hashtag #TacoBellPHL across Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Live Beautifully at any Age with HyC150 + Launching of Ask a Doctor Online

As we age, our skin loses moisture and suppleness, our hair becomes weak and dry, and our muscles become stiff making us less energetic. Thus the search for solution and anti-aging products takes place. But with the many anti-aging products nowadays, it's hard to tell which one really works.

I am not getting any younger and I can't stop the time, days and years from passing by but as they say age is just a number, so there's definitely something I can do on how I choose to age. And, even though I am not a beauty expert, as early as now I try to familiarize myself with things that can help my future self. That's why I was glad to have been invited into a Japanese Springtime Themed event at Oracle Aesthetic Clinic, where experts and specialists revealed the secret on how to live beautifully at any age, with the aid of HyC150. 

What is HyC150?

Premium HyC 150 is supplemental drink manufactured by Fine Japan Co. Ltd., it has a potent combination of natural ingredients to combat signs of aging. Only HyC 150 combines the moisturizing effect of 150mg of Hyaluron, also known as nature’s moisturizer, with collagen and ubiquinol, all natural ingredients known for its anti-aging properties. With HyC 150 food supplement, not only does one’s natural beauty becomes enhanced, but being beautiful also means being healthy too. 

HyC150 was given the Gold Award at the 2015 Monde Selection Awards for Diet and Health products. This international recognition is a testament to the superior quality of HyC 150 compared to all other anti-aging supplements in the market today.

Product Content and Benefits: 

• Hyaluron-  HyC 150 contains 150mg a gel-like substance that moisturizes the body and lubricates the joints and tissues so you can move freely and pain-free. At the same time, the skin is well hydrated to revent wrinkles, while the hair becomes strong and silky.
• Collagen- It also contains 5,250mg of collagen, the lifting supplement that tightens skin. Our body naturally produces collagen but we lose it as we age. By drinking HyC 150, you are supplied with the amount of collagen needed to repair body tissues and form structure in order to prevent sagging.
• Ubiquinol-  HyC 150’s 10mg ubiquinol, helps increase the body’s energy. Aside from being an energy-boosting element, ubiquinol is an antioxidant that protects the body from environmental toxins, strengthens the immune system, and prevents hair loss.

Believing that one has to be beautiful and healthy inside and out, HyC 150 is also fortified with Vitamin C, biotin, elastin and pearl coix, making it a powerful drink that must be added to your daily diet.

• Vitamin C- is a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from several cancer types while providing for a stronger immune system.
• Elastin - is a protein found in the body’s connective tissue that helps maintain the skin springiness and elasticity. 
• Biotin - makes hair shiny and scalp healthy.
• Pearl coix - the right dose of pearl coix will whiten skin to remove dark spots, even acne; and bring out that radiant, youthful glow in you.

Hyc150 is available at selected Watsons stores nationwide and online at Lazada, they also recently opened an online store store for convenient, easy access to its products offering free delivery to all customers nationwide. During the event they also launched the Ask a Doctor, an online conversation with medical experts who are practicing aesthetic medicine. Ask a Doctor is a personal way of getting information from medical experts that is best suited for you. 

 (L-R): Dr. Rudy Apostol (Doctor for Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Therapy), Hannah Ruth Sison (former Bb. Pilipinas 1st Runner Up, Hyc150 user), Dra. Em Sevilla (Founder and President of Vine Holistic Medical Aesthetics),  Susan Dimacali (Oracle Beauty Clinic owner) and Mr. Antonio Crisanto (General Manager - BrightRay Enterprises)

Now, your questions regarding ingredients found in food supplements or possible side effects, about aging, skin health and moisturization, and other related issues can be answered. All you have to do is visit the website www.hyc150.com and go to the website’s Ask a Doctor page. Fill in the form with your name, email address and your questions. After submitting it, the doctors will receive your questions through email, and will send a reply directly to your email.

HyC 150 is safe to be taken by women or men even in their 20’s. Take one sachet every day at P 125 per sachet and feel younger each day.

For more details and updates “Like” HyC150 on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/HyC150 Follow them on Twitter (#HyC150) or Instagram (@HyC150), or call (02) 5467297, 0917-7750779 for inquiries.

Product Review | Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol: Trusted by Hospitals and Households

One of our must have item in the house is a rubbing alcohol and I prefer the 70% Isopropyl among others. We always make sure that there is a big bottle of alcohol in the house and a small handy one whenever we're on the go. Tristan and Athena also got 1 small bottle each in their hygiene kit at school. I taught the kids the importance of hand washing especially before and after eating, using the bathroom and after playing. However, it's almost impossible to do it most especially when we are outdoors, and that is when rubbing alcohol saves the day!

To my delight, I have received a 500ml bottle of Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol together with the Mighty Mom Dishwashing Liquid that I reviewed here. Both brands are from Kohl Industries Corporation.  

This isn't the first time that I've heard about Doctor J. We first came across this brand last April when Athena was confined at University of Perpetual Help Dalta Medical Center here in Las Pinas, her hospital kit includes a small bottle of Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Alcohol. 

And after some research, I found out that Doctor J Alcohol is actually a top quality alcohol-disinfectant known in the Philippine market for a long time already, yes, since 1994! Kohl Industries Corporation has acquired the rights for the brand in June 2002, and in 2003 transformed the Doctor J brand into a leading alcohol-disinfectant of choice by major hospitals in the country. Yes it is, remember it was in Athena's hospital kit? 

So what do I like about Doctor J 70% Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol?

1. Trustworthy- It's a top choice by major hospitals and used by millions of households, so I put my 100% trust in it.

2. Better formulations-  It contains high quality, non-recycled alcohol making it an effective disinfectant and antiseptic.

3. Contains natural moisturizers- It's gentle so goodbye drying and say hello to soft hands!

4. Clean fragrant scent- It's like a cologne, leaving your hands smelling clean and fragrant for long. *ts fragrance is imported from Grasse, France!

5. Packaging- The one they sent me is 500ml perfect size for a family of 5 and it comes in a pump dispenser which is what I prefer because it's easier to use.

Doctor J is also available in following sizes:

• 1 Gallon
• 1 Liter
• 500mL pump
• 500mL bottle
• 250mL
• 150mL
• 60mL

Con:

There's only one thing I noticed with the pump dispenser, the alcohol leaks on the bottom part of the pump so make sure it's always standing up to avoid it from spilling. That's all. 

Seriously, this is now my new favorite alcohol brand. Will definitely make a purchase once we consumed this bottle they sent me. Have you tried using this yet? If you haven't, I suggest you do and who knows, you might make a switch too just like me!

Where to purchase Doctor J?

• Robsinsons Supermarket
• Shopwise, Watsons
• Rustan’s
• Wellcome Supermarket
• AFPCES, Super 8
• Fisher Supermarket
• Unimart
• Makati Supermarket
• Walter Supermarket
• CVC Supermarket
• San Roque Supermarket

For more details and updates check out their website: http://kohlindustries.com/

and follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doctorjalcohol/