Celebs #JoinTheBoobment with Avon

For the past 30 years, Avon has relentlessly advocated for Breast Cancer Awareness—

donating over $939 million in the fight against the disease, educating more than 180 million people about Breast Cancer, and funding breast health screenings for over 16.4 million women all over the world.

In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Avon Philippines asked women to

#JoinTheBoobment to promote monthly breast self-checks in order to detect early signs of Breast Cancer. With 3 in every 100 Filipinas diagnosed before they reach the age of 75, the Philippines has one of the highest number of cases across Asia.

Representing the Boobment

To highlight this important statistic, Avon Philippines held a photoshoot featuring three

personalities whose lives were affected by Breast Cancer. The symbol for Breast Cancer

awareness, the Pink Ribbon, became the key visual element during the shoot led by celebrity photographer, Andrea Beldua.

“Here, the ribbon is interpreted through a flowing tulle that represents women’s strength and resilience even in the toughest times,” explains Andrea. “I am so fascinated by the female form that almost my whole body of work revolves around it. So it is only right that I photograph women who are empowered, women who are survivors of this disease.” she adds.

Should you detect anything peculiar or out of the ordinary, don’t worry because Avon

Philippines is in partnership with the online teleconsultation app, Konsulta MD, so more

women can take action for their health 24/7. Free Breast Consultations are available until

November 20, 2021 for the first 500 individuals to avail – just use the voucher code PINKRIBBON.

For those who want to extend their participation in the fight against Breast Cancer, you may also #JoinTheBoobment by availing limited-edition fundraising items available at avonshop.ph including the Self-Check Watch, the Breast Cancer Promise Umbrella, the Empower non-wire Mastectomy Bra and Bra Prosthesis, or donate via G-Cash. All proceeds will go to the Philippine Cancer Society.

Breast Cancer is not something that should be taken lightly, but it’s also not something to be afraid of. Early detection saves lives that’s why it’s important to know the risks, the signs, and the actions to take should you encounter it—that is the Avon Breast Cancer Promise.

Don’t have an Avon Representative? Visit www.avon.ph or like and check out Avon

Philippines on Facebook to find out how you can shop your favorite Avon products!

About Avon

Avon has been doing beauty differently for 135 years. Avon is a company that connects people, using the power of beauty to transform lives for the better. Millions of independent sales Representatives across the world sell iconic Avon brands through their social networks, building their own beauty businesses on a full- or part-time basis. Avon stands for gender equality, and

we believe in listening to women’s needs, speaking out about issues that matter and creating positive change. Through Avon and the Avon Foundation we’ve donated over $1.1billion, with a focus on tackling gender violence and breast cancer. Avon is part of the Natura & Co Group.

Learn more at www.avonworldwide.com.

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https://twitter.com/avonph

McDonald’s, Jollibee, PDRF deliver meals to medical frontliners

MANILA—McDonald’s Kindness Kitchen and Jollibee Group Foundation, in partnership with the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), distributed ready-to-eat meals to medical frontliners of six COVID-19 referral hospitals in Metro Manila. 

For two weeks, the two biggest fast-food chains in the Philippines delivered a total of 6,000 meals to healthcare workers (HCWs) of select hospitals. This initiative aims to support and motivate HCWs as they deal with the latest surge of cases and patients, leading to stress, anxiety, physical exhaustion, and the additional risk of exposure to the virus.

“Our health care frontliners risk their lives every time they go to work. We owe them so much and this project is one small way to repay them,” said PDRF President Butch Meily.

Hospitals included Dr. Jose Natalio Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium (DJNRMHS), Philippine General Hospital, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, East Avenue Medical Center, Lung Center of the Philippines, and National Kidney and Transplant Institute.

Frontliners expressed their appreciation to the donors. “We're doing more with your support. Thank you for your donation and helping make a difference,” said DJNRMHS Nurse Carla Pamella Oñes.

PDRF, through Taskforce T3, coordinated the delivery of meals with its logistics partners: UPS, Kairos Cargo Group, Statmed, Lalamove, and Grab. 

“Over the course of the pandemic, McDonald’s, through its charity of choice, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), values partnerships both with public and private sectors. We are grateful for the continued partnership with PDRF that enables us to serve our modern-day heroes. With the logistical and on-ground support, we continue to serve meals from our Kindness Kitchens to medical front liners and volunteers. Together, we serve kindness in any way we can,” said RMHC Philippines Executive Director Marie Angeles.

Last year, during the onset of the pandemic, PDRF provided ready-to-eat meals to 12,000 healthcare workers in 17 institutions for two months. PDRF and its private sector network continue to show support for them through various initiatives.

Halal Personal Care Research Tops 2021 MMHRDC Poster Competition: STD-ITDI Bests 20 Agencies

A poster research of the Standards and Testing Division (STD-ITDI) on Halal-compliant personal care products took the top spot in the Professional Poster Competition during the 2021 MMHRDC 5th International Symposium and 12th Annual Scientific Conference held on September 24-25, 2021.

The Trinity University of Asia (TUA), located in Quezon City,  hosted the  2021 Metro Manila Health Research and Development Consortium symposium and scientific conference.  It gathered 21 national and international agencies for the professional category of the poster research competition.

Following the theme “COVID-19 Pandemic Realities: Equitable Initiatives for a Healthy JUAN,”  the entry “Halal-Compliant Personal Care Products: Promoting Health and Hygiene Amidst the COVID-19" is part of an ongoing project of STD on Benchscale Production, Validation of Optimized Parameters, and Sensory Evaluation for the Market Research of Halal Cosmetics and Toiletries. It aimed to provide personal care products that are formulated using Halal-compliant ingredients and produced following guidelines in the Shariah.

The team, led by Dr. Rosalinda C. Torres, Scientist I and serving as Chief of STD, includes Ma. Rachel V. Parcon, Chelsea Kate Jose, Danielle Camille Canillo, Dana Taladro, and Harvy Jay Esmundo.

Together the team developed two Halal-compliant personal care products, which includes a moisturizing and whitening soap, and several variants of a shampoo with hair growth promoting properties.

Dr. Torres explains that, "The development of these Halal-compliant products will cater to the religious laws of a continuously growing global Muslim population. There are currently 1.8 billion Muslims in the world; 10.7 million of these are Muslim-Filipinos residing in the country."

Further, she added that, several cosmetic and personal care products in the market are posing potential safety issues due to their composition which includes a complex mixture of harmful chemical ingredients.

US researchers report that one in eight of the 82,000 ingredients used in personal care products are industrial chemicals, including carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins, and hormone disruptors.

Dr. Torres, thus would like to highlight the importance of not only taking into consideration the Halal integrity, safety, and cleanliness of food products, but also to consider products that are most likely being absorbed by the skin and could also be inhaled and ingested, like lipsticks, lip tints, and lip balms.

 

MMHRDC aims to strengthen collaboration among health research institutions in Metro Manila, as well as develop and enhance their research capacity.   The Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) steers MMHRDC through its core agencies, namely DOST-PCHRD, DOST-NCR, DOH-NCR, CHED-NCR, and UP-NIH. Currently, MMHRDC has 43 member institutions. (AMGuevarra\\TSD-ITDI)

Pinoy experts sa dengue, at iba pang mga insektong nagdadala ng sakit, mangunguna sa DOST-BSP Talks

Isa sa malaking suliranin ng bansa ang sakit na dala ng mga peste.  Isa na rito ang dengue na siyang sakit na nagmumula sa mga lamok. Ang ibang insekto naman ay peste sa pananim na nagiging suliranin ng mga magsasaka.  Ang mga pag-aaral na kasalukuyang ginagawa rito, kasama ang pagdebelop ng mga energy-storage materials ng mga kumpanya ang isa sa mga paksang itatanghal ng Department of Science and Technology – Balik Scientist Program (DOST-BSP) Talks sa darating na ika-30 ng Oktubre 2021.  

Ang webinar series na ito ay naglalayong manghikayat ng mga Pinoy scientists na nagta-trabaho sa ibang bansa upang tumulong sa eksperto sa mga suliraning may kinalaman sa agrikultura, pangisdaan at likas na yaman, kalusugan, at sa sektor ng industriya at makabagong teknolohiya. Higit na kailangan ang serbisyo ng mga Pinoy scientists ngayong may kinakaharap tayong pandemya.  

Nais din ng webinar series na magbigay ng komprehensibong impormasyon kung paano maging isang Balik Scientist, makapaghanap ng angkop na host institution at magtakda ng mga gawain na makakatulong sa mga host institutions. Ang unang serye ng webinar ay idadaos sa ika-30 ng Oktubre 2021. 

“Ang mga DOST-BSP scientists natin ang isa sa mga nagsisilbing science frontliners sa paglaban sa pandemya at mga suliraning dala nito,” ayon kay DOST Secretary Fortunato T. dela Pena.  “Ang binabahagi nilang kaalaman ay ang pangunahing tugon sa mga bagong hamon sa bayan.”

Ang unang serye ng webinar ay magtatampok ng mga karanasan ng ilang Balik Scientists upang malaman kung ano ang nag-udyok sa kanila para maging Balik Scientists, pati na rin ang kanilang mga naiambag sa S&T community.   

Makikilala natin si Dr. Divina M. Amalin, isang eksperto sa entomology o pag-aaral ng mga insekto. Dito sa webinar na ito, malalaman natin kung paano siya nakatulong sa mga magsasaka ng cacao at sa Cocoa Foundation of the Philippines sa paggamit ng mga biocontrol agents para maiwasan ang mga problema dulot ng peste na sumisira sa cacao. Mapapakinggan din natin ang kanyang ibang kontribusyon sa De La Salle University sa patuloy na pananaliksik sa biocontrol agents. 

Isa rin sa mga eksperto na kapapanayamin ay si Dr. Thaddeus Carvajal. Ang kanyang field of expertise ay vector biology o pananaliksik sa mga organismong maaring magdulot ng sakit gaya ng lamok na sanhi ng dengue. Ikukuwento niya kung paanong ang kanyang expertise ay mahalaga sa pagsugpo ng sakit gaya ng dengue. Isasalaysay din niya ang mga nagbukas na oportunidad nung siya ay naging Balik Scientist.  

Kasama din si Dr. Lawrence Limjuco, isang eksperto sa material science partikular sa pag-aaral ng mga energy applications ng iba’t ibang materyales at pagdebelop ng mga energy-storage materials. Malalaman natin ang kahalagahan ng kanyang expertise sa pagpapayabong ng edukasyon sa material science at paano ito makakatulong sa socio-development ng ating bansa.   

Pinasisigla sa unang webinar ang ating mga kababayang scientists na nag-ibang bansa ngunit bumalik at nagbibigay serbisyo sa Pilipinas para ibahagi ang kanilang kaalaman at mga kakayahan kahit may pandemya. Ito ay posible dahil sa mga pagbabago sa polisiya at alituntunin ng Balik Scientist Program. Maari nang maging isang Balik Scientist kahit nasa ibang bansa, sa pamamagitan ng remote arrangement at makakatanggap pa rin ng benefits kahit na sa ganitong paraan ng Balik Scientist engagement.    

Makikilala din ang mga makakatulong para maging Balik Scientist. Sila ang mga bumubuo sa pangkat ng Balik Scientist Program sa tatlong DOST sectoral councils, at ang BSP Secretariat sa tanggapan ng Undersecretary for Research and Development na nasa pangunguna ni Usec. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara.

New International Conservation Actions Agreed for Saiga Antelopes

Bonn, 27 October 2021 – Kazakhstan, Mongolia, the Russian Federation, and Uzbekistan agreed on new joint conservation measures to conserve the Saiga Antelope under the United Nations’ Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). For the next five years, the international Work Programme for the Saiga Antelope will provide a new framework to conserve and sustainably use the species throughout its migratory range.

The new Work Programme was agreed at the Fourth Meeting of the Signatory States to the CMS Memorandum of Understanding concerning Conservation, Restoration and Sustainable Use of the Saiga Antelope (Saiga MOU) held online on 28 - 29 of September 2021.

The agreed Work Programme considers different approaches to Saiga conservation depending on the individual status of the species in the four Range States. While the population is dwindling in Uzbekistan, it has increased tenfold in Kazakhstan since 2015. In both Mongolia and Russia populations are increasing but remain low.   

CMS Executive Secretary Amy Fraenkel said: “The adoption of the new Work Programme by the four Saiga Range States underscores the importance of transboundary conservation. The seasonal migrations of the Saiga antelope show why ecological connectivity - the unimpeded movement of wild species - is so vital.”

The Meeting also endorsed the report “Sustainable Use of the Saiga Antelope: Perspectives and Prospects”, prepared by the Saiga Conservation Alliance on behalf of the CMS Secretariat, in close consultations with all Range States. The report seeks to guide the establishment of sustainable use of Saigas, where this is possible, taking into account population dynamics and threats to Saiga antelopes across the range. According to the report, the current number of Saiga in the Ural population in Kazakhstan is sufficiently high for the Government to consider sustainable harvest of the animals.

The most recent population counts have shown an increase in Saiga numbers in three Range States, and especially in Kazakhstan, where the total population of Saigas has increased from about 83,000 in 2015 to 842,000 in 2021.

The conservation efforts of the Range States, scientific institutions, and NGOs facilitated by the CMS and CITES Secretariats have played a significant role in this positive dynamic. Range States and NGOs reported on current conservation programmes, including anti-poaching efforts that were stepped up in recent years.

Yet, threats to Saigas, such as wildlife disease, poaching, human-wildlife conflict and barriers to migration persist and can have devastating effects, especially in smaller populations. Over the next five years, Governments will continue to address these threats.

Saiga antelopes rely on their ability to migrate over large distances to avoid unfavorable weather conditions and are prone to mass die-off events. In 2015 about 200,000 Saiga antelopes perished due to a combination of disease and extreme weather events.

The meeting was organized by the CMS Secretariat and hosted by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation.

Mr Sergey Anoprienko, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation and Chair of the meeting, said: “Conservation and sustainable use of the Saiga antelope is an important issue for Russia, considering that the species is included in the Russian Red book. Thanks to the conservation efforts undertaken by the Russian Federation, the number of the Pre-Caspian Saiga population in Russia increased from 3,500 in 2015 to currently 10,000 animals.”

Notes for Editors

Medium-Term International Work Programme for the Saiga Antelope (2021 - 2025) [EN, RU]:  https://www.cms.int/saiga/en/document/medium-term-international-work-programme-saiga-antelope-2021-2025

Report on The sustainable Use of Saiga Antelopes: Perspectives and Prospects [EN, RU]:

https://www.cms.int/saiga/en/publication/sustainable-use-saiga-antelopes-perspectives-and-prospects

About the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)

An environmental treaty of the United Nations, the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) provides a global platform for the conservation and sustainable use of migratory animals and their habitats. This unique treaty brings governments and wildlife experts together to address the conservation needs of terrestrial, aquatic, and avian migratory species and their habitats around the world. Since the Convention entered into force in 1979, its membership has grown steadily to include 132 Parties from Africa, Central and South America, Asia, Europe and Oceania.

About the CMS Memorandum of Understanding concerning Conservation, Restoration and Sustainable Use of the Saiga Antelope (Saiga MOU)

The CMS Saiga MOU is the only international instrument for the conservation of the Critically Endangered Saiga antelope. The MOU is a legally non-binding international instrument, which has been in force since 2006 and has been signed by all five Range States – Kazakhstan, Mongolia, the Russian Federation, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The MOU aims to achieve and maintain a favourable conservation status for Saigas based on the best available scientific information and considering the socio-economic value of Saigas for the people of various countries.

Visit: cms.int/saiga:

https://www.facebook.com/bonnconvention

PDRF, partners install new water system in Marawi

(R-L) Bebot Barhan (Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Consultant), Anna Katrina Aspuria (PDRF) & Robert Cabiles (Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water COO) 

MANILA—The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), in partnership with the US-Philippines Society, Metrobank, Metro Pacific Water, PLDT, and United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN Habitat), began installing 109 rainwater catchments in Hadiya Village, Marawi City last October 19, providing clean water to the community.

The installation and ceremonial turnover took place on the fourth anniversary of the liberation of Marawi City after the five-month siege in 2017. This project aims to support communities and areas currently not connected to piped systems due to challenging geographic locations by providing them with tools for rainwater harvesting. The installation will be completed by the end of the month.

Metro Pacific Water (MPW) joined the group in Marawi to check water sources in two sites: Hadiya Village and Darussalam Village. MPW will recommend strategies on how to improve water systems in UN-funded permanent shelter sites.

Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainfall for human consumption, as a supplement to existing water systems. According to the Stockholm Environment Institute report for the United Nations Environment Programme, “rainwater harvesting can serve as an opportunity to enhance ecosystem productivity, thereby improving livelihoods, human well-being and economies.” 

This system provides an independent water supply where clean water is difficult to access. It can help reduce flooding and soil erosion, mitigating some of the adverse effects of climate change. The water collected can be suitable for irrigation and human consumption and help reduce groundwater demand. Rainwater harvesting is also low-cost, easy to maintain, and sustainable.

"PDRF’s donation of Rainwater Catchment for Hadiya Village is an essential part of our Meranaw  brothers and sisters, as water plays a vital role in the practice of their religion,” said Felix J. Castro, Jr., Field Manager and Assistant Secretary of Task Force Bangon Marawi.

"UN-Habitat advocates for Climate Change Resilience.  The donations of PDRF together with its partners will surely enhance the maximization of rainwater for domestic use of the individual family. Financially, it will reduce the monthly contribution per household on electric consumption and they can divert their funds as savings or for other payables,” said Warren C. Ubongen, Project Manager of UN-Habitat. 

The rainwater harvesting system is an important lifeline for communities like Hadiya Village, who have limited access to clean water. This helps reduce their vulnerability from water shortages and thus improve their livelihoods and wellbeing, demonstrating how prosperity and peace can go hand in hand.

“This project symbolizes the numerous things we can achieve if we work together for the welfare of the many.  We hope that this will help address the community’s needs by providing adequate and clean water daily,” said Anna Katrina Aspuria, Head of Development Programs and Innovation at PDRF.

"Nais ko pong magpasalamat sa proyektong ito mula sa ating mga partners na pinangungunahan ng PDRF na hanggang ngayon hindi kami iniiwan at binibitawan...

At sa ating mga residente dito sa Hadiya Village, salamat sa inyong kooperasyon, pang-unawa at patuloy na pagtitiwala sa ating mga partners, sa lokal na pamahalaan at sa national government.

Nawa'y ipagpatuloy natin ang ating magagandang nasimulan at pagtutulungan upang sabay-sabay nating maibangon ang Marawi sa lalong madaling panahon, Insha Allah," said Hon. Atty Majul U. Gandamra the Mayor of the Islamic City of Marawi.

[“I would like to express our gratitude to all the partners, led by PDRF who have continued to support us even until now/have not never wavered in their support for us even until now. And to the residents here at Hadiya Village, thank you for your cooperation, understanding, and continued trust in our partners and in the local and national government. May we continue the good work we have started and our close collaboration so that together we can help Marawi recover as soon as possible, God willing.]

This project is part of PDRF’s continuous commitment to helping the people of Marawi recover and become more resilient after the crisis.

UN Habitat has recently published the Blue Drop Series on Water Harvesting and Utilization, a collection of guides on rainwater harvesting for policy makers, beneficiaries and capacity and implementing agencies.  

200 Men and Women participated in a Nude Artistic Installation in Israel

200 men and women participated in a nude artistic installation by the American artist Spencer Tunick in the desert landscape around Arad. The photographic installation is designed to support the establishment of the Dead Sea Museum in Arad. As part of the artwork, the artist used a white body paint that had never before been used. 

In a cooperation with the Israel Ministry of Tourism, the Arad Municipality, the Dead Sea Revival Project, Spencer Tunick has returned to the Dead Sea region after two earlier installations that won international acclaim and helped raise awareness of Israel as a tourism destination. 

Participants in the project say that, this project is expected to be one of the most daring and controversial ever undertaken by the artist. Tunick has created installations in, among others, New York, London, Vienna, Barcelona and Sydney. Today, Arad joins this illustrious list, hosted by the Israel Ministry of Tourism. 

About 200 people who agreed to participate in the installation arrived in Arad in the early afternoon and disrobed somewhere in the desert landscape surrounding Arad. The event took about three hours, during which the artist positioned the volunteer models and the camera, according to the background and the light etc. 

The installation is designed to draw world attention to the importance of preserving and restoring the Dead Sea, as well as the establishment of the Dead Sea Museum to be built in Arad, under the initiative and leadership of Ari Fruchter who recruited Tunick for the promotional campaign. 

Tourism Minister Yoel Razvozov: “Every image published by the artist represents a tourism boost for Israel. Millions of people from around the world see the beauty and the tourism potential of Arad and Dead Sea. As Israel opens it skies to vaccinated tourists, we look forward to welcoming them once again to the unique landscapes of the Dead Sea region, one of Israel's leading tourist destinations. " 

Spencer Tunick: “It is difficult to hide the fact that the Dead Sea is disappearing and the establishment of the Dead Sea Museum is our way to create awareness of this fact. My visit to Israel was an experience for me and I am always happy to return here and photograph in the only country in the Middle East that allows art such as this.” 

Israeli Ambassador Presents Credentials to President Duterte

Ambassador-designate Ilan Fluss presented to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte his credentials as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to the Republic of the Philippines at Malacañang Palace on 20 October 2021.

Ambassador Fluss formerly served as Deputy Chief of Mission at the Israeli Embassy in Manila from 1995 to 1998.

“I am honored to be back in the Philippines, this time as the Ambassador of the State of Israel. I am excited to take on this new role in the Philippines as my first assignment in this capacity,” Ambassador Fluss shared.

Ambassador Fluss noted the very warm and friendly relations between Israel and the Philippines, which was strengthened further by the historic visit of President Duterte to Israel in 2018. Since then, significant developments have been achieved in the fields of economy, agriculture, tourism, among others.

“Mr. President, innovation and technologies are not the future – they are the present – and the development of more cooperation in this field is one of my main goals for the years ahead. The goal of our partnership is to create sustainable development, improve lives, create jobs, generate income, and enable the transfer of relevant know-how and technologies,” Ambassador Fluss said during his speech.

Ambassador Fluss hopes to make substantial contributions to the furthering of the countries’ friendship and partnership, and to the continued work towards the prosperity of Israel and the Philippines.

Ambassador Fluss was born in December 1965 in Haifa, Israel. He served in the Israeli navy for five years. He graduated from the University of Haifa with a degree in psychology and Israel studies, and an MBA from the University of Derby. He joined the foreign service in 1994 where, since then, he represented Israel in a variety of capacities.

He served successively as Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines (1995 – 1998), Spokesperson and Cultural Attaché at the Embassy of Israel in the Hague, Netherlands (1998 – 2000), served in the Ministry’s Asian Division (2000 – 2004), Acting Ambassador and later on, as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Israel in Pretoria, South Africa, (while in South Africa he was also responsible for Israel’s diplomatic relations with Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and Swaziland), Counsellor at the Permanent Mission of Israel to the UN (2006), Director for Policy Planning and External Relations and later on as Deputy Head of MASHAV (2009 – 2016), special envoy for the Bureau of the Director General (2016 – 2018), and eventually as the Deputy Head of the Economic Division at Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2018 – 2021). He was appointed as the Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines in October 2021. He is married to his wife, Gila, and has four children.

Results of Ivermectin clinical trials may benefit drug developers and the public - DOST

“If results are good, drug developers and the public will benefit from the local Ivermectin clinical trials,” said the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Undersecretary for Research and Development, Usec. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara.

In April 2021, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) together with the Department of Health (DOH), announced its support for the conduct of local clinical trials on Ivermectin to provide data on the safety and efficacy of the drug in treating Filipino patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. The eight-month project is spearheaded by Dr. Aileen Wang of the University of the Philippines - Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH). 

In preparation for the start of the trials, the project is working with its own formulation to comply with the existing standards for double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. As explained by Usec. Guevara, the project team will make their own capsules because the trials require the placebo and the active drug to look the same to avoid patient and physician bias.

To standardize the study drugs to be used -- placebo and active drug, the project team has partnered with the UP Manila College of Pharmacy who can develop and compound the local Ivermectin capsules easily in a short period of time.

“We would like to reiterate that the compounded capsules to be used solely for the purpose of clinical trials will adhere to Good Manufacturing Practice and Compounding Practice, and will be subjected to tests for raw materials and finished product,” emphasizes Dr. Yolanda Robles, lead of the Pharmacy team of the ivermectin trials. 

“The use of Ivermectin as medication for COVID-19 became a public clamor for the past months despite insufficient scientific evidence, if the results of this study is good, then the drug developers can use the results of the study for guidance on how to use ivermectin. Eventually, benefitting the public,” emphasized Usec. Guevara.

“We assure the public that our ultimate goal in the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) is to provide them with solutions backed by scientific evidence,” says PCHRD Executive Director Jaime C. Montoya.

Currently, there are 75 registered clinical trials on the use of Ivermectin as COVID-19 treatment around the world. However, as of today, the DOH and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) still do not recommend the use of Ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19 due to insufficient scientific evidence. 

DOST-NICER Centers in Regions work to achieve UN’s Zero Hunger target in PH

Innovation Hubs to end hunger in the Philippines. 

These lofty ideals power the formation of the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Niche Centers in the Region for R&D (NICER).  In an online symposium held last Tuesday, October 19, 2021, the NICERs focusing on food security such as inland marine and aquatic resources, together with crop and livestock presented their latest breakthroughs to contribute to the achievement of zero hunger in the country.  

Under the umbrella of the DOST-Science for Change Program, NICERs capacitate regional higher educational institutions’ ability to conduct quality research and boost regional economic growth.  

“We need to capacitate our regions to be ready for the challenges of the new environment,” said DOST Secretary Fortunato T. dela Peña.  “Food security and safety are two sectors that propel our nation forward.  We must invest in R&D to end hunger and strengthen our food systems and sustain activities that support regional development.” 

“The establishment of these NICERs are among the key strategies towards developing a more STI-driven, sustainable, resilient, and progressive countryside – stimulating the industry sector and contributing towards achieving zero hunger in the near future,” said Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang. 

The first center presented was under the Inland Aquatic industry. The Isabela State University (ISU) in Cagayan Valley Region hosts the Freshwater Fisheries R&D Center.  This NICER has successfully increased the average weight of glass eels or igat by 204% and their average survival rate from 70% to 94%, established rearing facilities in eleven (11) municipalities to grow ludong or Lobed-River Mullet, generated employment for the Indigenous People, and established the Cagayan Valley Aquaculture Producers Cooperative which encouraged the community to venture into eel and freshwater fish production. 

The second center presented was under the Marine Resources industry. The Mindanao State University-Naawan (MSU-Naawan) in Northern Mindanao hosts the Sea Cucumber R&D Center.  The Center focuses on 2 species of sea cucumbers, the white teatfish, Holothuria fuscogilva, and sandfish, Holothuria scabra. The white teatfish is still in its experimental stages of developing its spawning and larval rearing protocols, and the sandfish is up and running for its production and promotion for farming among community beneficiaries as their source of alternative livelihood. 

This NICER has recorded 58 commercial sea cucumber species across stations in Mindanao, and found that sea cucumber fisheries in sampling sites in Mindanao are generally small-scale involving 700 households with varying gathering methods depending on location and depth.

The third center presented was under the Crops industry. The Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) in Central Luzon hosts the Tamarind R&D Center.  In 2 years’ time, this NICER has increased the areas in Central Luzon planted with tamarind from 187 to 271.5 hectares. 

Lastly, under the Livestock industry. The Marinduque State College (MSC) in MIMAROPA hosts the Markaduke R&D Center.  This NICER has achieved improvement in the number of piglets weaned from 13 to as high as 18 pigs weaned per sow per year (PWSY). More genetic improvements are soon to be achieved having found favorable genes for litter size (Estrogen Receptor 1: 17% to 36%), growth (Myogenin: 14%), meat quality (Leptin: 86%), and disease resistance (Fucosyltransferase 1: 22% to 50%). Its artificial insemination laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art computer assisted sperm analyzer to improve the reproductive efficiency of the male breeding pig (boar). The technology on feeding and husbandry practices are in line with the low-cost, low-input production system to be adaptable and practical under the house-hold farming condition. 

With all these achievements, DOST pushes to sustain their efforts in the Science for Change Program by lobbying for the passage of the Science for Change Program (S4CP) Bill which seeks to address the disparity in research and development (R&D) funding in the Regions and lack of R&D in the private sector.  Once approved, the S4CP Bill will promote inclusive, equitable, and sustainable development through the optimal use of the R&D budget equitably and systematically in all regions in the country.  The S4CP bill also aims to achieve self-reliance in various sectors including the food sector, manufacturing sector and health sector, among others.

“The NICER program introduced R&D interventions to enhance agricultural yields in the Regions to spur economic growth and contribute to food security,” said Undersecretary for R&D Rowena Cristina L. Guevara. “DOST intends that these NICERs will produce and attract the leading experts in high-impact sectors in support of the creation of regional hubs for the technology transfer and commercialization of R&D outputs.”

Nicanor Perlas Asks the Duterte Government to Cease and Desist Extreme and Unscientific Covid Policies That Are Killing and Harming Filipinos and Destroying the Country

Nicanor Perlas, Chief Researcher and Head of Covid Call to Humanity, a Filipino-based global information network, today issued a letter to the Duterte Government to cease and desist from unscientific and extreme Covid policies that are killing and harming Filipinos as well as destroying the country in the process. 

The Cease and Desist document, which is also a Notice of Liability, highlights the following problems with current Covid policies including mindless lockdowns and forced mass vaccinations:

• We had no excess deaths in 2020; hence no health emergency.
• There are safe treatments available but suppressed by government. 
• Our immune system is 2700% more protective than vaccine-induced immunity. 
• We are creating a real epidemic of the vaccinated. The vaccinated still get infected and die from the disease. They are also super spreaders of the disease. Worst, they incubate variants. 
• The young have a survival rate of 99.997% yet government is running after them to inject them with vaccines that have already killed millions worldwide.
• Recent global investigations are showing that these are not vaccines but sophisticated bioweapons. Military officers have already died. 
• The Duterte Covid mandates violate many articles of the Constitution and are illegal, including the issuance for the EUAs for the vaccines. 

“This is going to be worst than the Dengvaxia scandal and the Extra Judicial Killings (EJK) combined”, warned Perlas. “In the Philippines, thousands have already died and hundreds of thousands seriously injured. This is genocide. Yet the DOH keeps on lying to the Filipino people that the vaccines are safe and effective.”  

The Cease and Desist document is 86 pages long with 227 references that back up the claims of the notice. It highlights many scientific discoveries and news items that are not known to most Filipinos. Taiwan, for example, is reporting more deaths from the vaccinated than all their COVID-19 deaths. 

Perlas explained: “We are giving the government three days to respond. If they do not respond, we will file a TRO before the Supreme Court to stop the massacre and the destruction of livelihoods and the economy. The scientific evidence is so overwhelming that, God willing, we will get a positive response from the Supreme Court.”

Visit here: https://covidcalltohumanity.org/blog-archives/

The Perfect Cha Eun-Woo for FRONTROW’s Genius Immune Boosting Supplement!

Now here with much power is the newest All-In-One addition to the multi-awarded line of  Luxxe  Health Supplements  by  health  and beauty leader FRONTROW:  Luxxe Immun Plus. And marking the strong arrival of this well-rounded and all-natural immune booster, which was  meticulously developed and manufactured in  Australia, is  the product’s face genius—Korean actor Cha Eun Woo. 

Regarded as the new massive Plus to Luxxe, ImmunPlus is perfectly embodied by the dazzling Eun-Woo who shines bright in all his pursuits and never ceases to surprise us with the constant developments in his acting, music and modelling career. “I am thankfulthat I got to learn about FRONTROW’s amazing health products that help keep me on the go,” shares Cha Eun-Woo.

Powerfully infused with our body’s much needed Vitamins C, D, Zinc, Turmeric, Ginger,Garlic,  Cayenne and Black Pepper,  ImmunPlus stands out as a  superior immune boosting and anti-inflammatory supplement. The added layer of protection provided by this breakthrough health product enables us to live as actively as the admirable Eun-Woo, and do the things we need and want despite the health risks we are faced today. 

Though, more importantly, Luxxe ImmunPlus helps us keep our loved ones safe from the spread of disease.

In a virtual launch for the product, FRONTROW CEO Sam Verzosa revealed, “When the pandemic struck and affected everyone, we felt the need to create a solution to help fight  COVID-19 and boost everyone’s  immunity. 

With that, our research and development team put together the most powerful and potent ingredients curated to strengthen our immune system. "FRONTROW President RS Francisco added, “We took all the suggestions that people take as food supplements and we’ve gathered all those beneficial ingredients for one to fortify and strengthen themselves, their bodies, from the threat of bacteria and virus.”Taking all current factors into consideration,  FRONTROW was able to come up with the perfect  extra  powerful blend to elevate our protection  against disease,  bacteria and virus—building our guard up from the common cold to the life-threating Coronavirus. 

Although Luxxe ImmunPlus is highly essential to keep us  protected at this time of pandemic, this still should not stop us from getting vaccinated  and observing safety protocols. 

In the  product’s virtual launch,  FRONTROW’s RS  Francisco emphasized, “Social distancing is a social responsibility. And even if you’re safer because you’re taking Luxxe ImmunPlus and you’ve gotten you’re jab already, this doesn’t exempt us from practicing rules and regulations regarding COVID.” So please do not leave home without your face masks yet! 

And for you to keep your daily  dose of Luxxe ImmunPlus in mind,  here’s a sweet reminder  from the mesmerizing Cha Eun-Woo: Put your health and safety at the front row and avail of Luxxe ImmunPlus, as well as FRONTROW’s other acclaimed  supplements—Luxxe White  Enhanced Glutathione, Luxxe Protect Pure Grape Seed Extract, Luxxe Renew 8 Berry Extract and Luxxe SlimL-Carnitine  and  Green Tea Extract— from  an  AUTHORIZED  FRONTROW DISTRIBUTOR now. 

DOST grants funding to BatStateU for Regional Inclusive Innovation Center implementation

BATANGAS CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Region 4a entered into partnership with the Batangas State University (BatStateU) through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the initial implementation of the Regional Inclusive Innovation Center (RIIC) in Calabarzon, on October 7. 2021

An initiative by DTI and DOST, supported by the USAID Science, Technology, Research and Innovation for Development (STRIDE), the RIIC is one of the cornerstones of the 2018 Inclusive Filipinnovation and Entrepreneurship Roadmap to strengthen the capacity for innovation to drive inclusive economic growth in the countryside.

Under the Grants-In-Aid program, DOST-4a has committed Php 1.4M funds for strengthening the operation of RIIC in Calabarzon including support for the Barako coffee sector, establishment of a Business Innovation Unit under BatStateU Knowledge, Innovation and Science Technology (KIST) Park and other innovation programs. The BIU aims to be a dynamic one-stop-shop for prospective innovators in the region, with the goal of increased utilization and uptake of innovation programs/services and R&D outputs among MSMEs.

The MOA was signed by DOST-4a Regional Director Emelita Bagsit and Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations Mr. Francisco Barquilla, with counterparts from BatStateU President Tirso Ronquillo, and Vice President for Research, Development and Extension Services Engr. Albertson Amante.

The agreement builds on the approval of the Regional Development Council (RDC) for the establishment of the Calabarzon RIIC last December 2020, with DOST-4a and DTI-4a as lead government agencies, and BatStateU as the anchor academe institution and lead implementor. This is only the first phase of the implementation and is expected to produce outcomes for a more developed and accessible innovation environment across the region.

A ceremonial awarding of funds will be held on October 19, during the launch of the RIIC Innovation program and official brand, dubbed as “Linking Innovation Networks for Competitiveness in Calabarzon” –or– “LINC Calabarzon.” The event will also unveil the LINC Calabarzon Website that houses a regional innovation database, consolidating local innovation resources for increased access among MSMEs and other stakeholders.

Visit here:

facebook.com/LincCalabarzon.

Experts from Israel, PH, showcase innovative solutions for thewater and sanitation crisis

MANILA—Filipino and Israeli water experts gathered together in an online knowledge-sharing session last October 13 to explore potential solutions to address the Philippines’ water supply and sanitation problems.

Over 200 participants from local and international organizations attended the “Diving Deep into the Israel Water Sector: Technology and Solutions for Water Safety and Sanitation” webinar organized by the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, and Israel Economic and Commercial Mission to the Philippines. This event was part of the ongoing Philippine Water Challenge (PhlWC), launched by the USAID Safe Water Project, PDRF, Manila Water, and Maynilad to engage different sectors in finding solutions to the country's water crisis.

According to the 2021 Sustainable Development Report, the Philippines only ranks 103rd of 193 countries in terms of achieving all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It has completed only one out of five Clean Water and Sanitation Goal indicators: 1.9 m³/capita of water consumption embodied in imports. Significant challenges remain for access to essential drinking water and sanitation services, available freshwater resources, and adequate wastewater treatment.

The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines believes that there are many opportunities to discover solutions to address water and sanitation supply challenges. Key innovations from the Israeli Water Sector may serve as a springboard for new ideas.

More than half of Israel is covered in desert and there is hardly any rain. Due to limited water resources, they developed policies and unconventional solutions to improve the country’s water sufficiency. Thus, Israel has become one of the best in the world in the field of water and sanitation and technologies.

“Once you arrive in Israel, you realize how developed the water sector is, with great achievements in our land, fruitful in agriculture and water-sufficient. From the lack of resources, we developed our most impressive water innovations, including irrigation, filtration, leak detection, and much more. Israel is also a world leader in water recycling as we reuse nearly 90% of our wastewater,” said Israel Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Nir Balzam.

Head of the Water and Security and Emergency Division of the Israel Water Authority Danny Lacker also emphasized that preparation is key to overcome hurdles and create solutions to any challenge.

“You cannot fall into any challenge in the water system without being prepared in advance, meaning: thinking about it, using technology, drilling, and operating in times of crisis. In Hebrew we have a nice saying that ‘whoever cooks on Friday will eat on Saturday.’ So that’s what you should keep in mind: be prepared in advance,” Lacker said.

Economic Counsellor and Head of the Israel Economic & Commercial Mission to the Philippines Tomer Heyvi encouraged Filipino participants to explore Israeli technologies and solutions to get inspiration to address the Philippine water crisis. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two countries using the innovation and application of the best practices of Israel in water management suited for the Philippines.

Guest speakers included Sally Levi (Meniv Rishon Ltd), Ram Weingarten (Bermad Water Control Solutions), Menachem Ghertner (Odis), Anna Chernyavsky (WaterGen), Efrat Kohen (Shafdan), and Eyal Yassky (Hilico).

Panelists who shared their insights and best practices were Anna Victoria Lu (Aboitiz InfraCapital and Apo Agua), Maria Cecilia Alcantara (Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, Inc.), Sevillo David, Jr. (National Water Resources Board), Rogelio Singson (Metro Pacific Water), Emmanuel Jimenez (Manila Water Company, Inc.), and Chen Jovany (The Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute. The panel discussions were moderated by Ramon “Dondi” Alikpala of FutureWater Asia.

The Philippine Water Challenge (PhlWC) is an annual competition that serves as a platform for generating water supply and sanitation solutions for water service providers and users. By recognizing promising solutions, the PhlWC will help achieve the objectives of the Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan for improving access to water-stressed communities.

“I believe that this competition can generate new solutions and a heightened awareness of how vulnerable we are as a nation to the vagaries of nature. Once and for all, let us make water resources available to all Filipinos,” said PDRF President Butch Meily.

Submission of applications for the Philippine Water Challenge has been extended to October 31, 2021.Visit here formore info 

www.pdrf.org/philippinewaterchallenge/

FFCCCII supports revival of tourism industry, greater mobility of fully vaccinated people

Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) President Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong expressed support for proposals which seek to help revive the Philippines’ pandemic-hit tourism industry, such as the call to reduce the quarantine period for fully vaccinated overseas travelers from ten days to five days. He also expressed support for the proposed “Bakuna Bubble” of granting greater mobility to fully vaccinated persons and businesses with fully vaccinated employees, for reopening of the Philippine economy while still protecting public health.

 

Here is statement of FFCCCII President Dr. Lim:

 

“More countries in the world are nowadays easing travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travelers, such as the United States which plans to ease foreign travel restrictions beginning in November. Foreign nationals flying into the U.S. will have to be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 within three days of their flight. Let us support proposals to grant fully vaccinated balikbayan (overseas Filipino) visitors and international tourists similar convenience, by reducing arriving international passenger quarantine period to 5 days.”

 

“I had been informed that in a recent meeting of the airlines, Department of Health and the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19, a proposal was made for international flights passengers will be tested 72 hours before their flights, undergo quarantine upon arrival, and take an RT-PCR test on the third day. Those passengers who test negative will be allowed to go home after the fifth day and complete their quarantine at home.”

“Airline industry people have showed data that international arrivals have not contributed significantly to COVID-19 infection rate surges, with average positivity rate was below 0.5% in the last quarter.”

“To accelerate our economic recovery, we need to support and help revive Philippine tourism. Before the pandemic lockdown, the 2019 contribution of the tourism industry to the Philippine economy was 12.7 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), generating tourism direct gross value added (TDGVA) of 2.48 trillion pesos (roughly 49.54 billion dollars) and providing 5.71 million jobs for that year. We should again rebuild our tourism industry and restore it as one of the catalysts of robust Philippine economic growth.”

FFCCCII supports revival of tourism industry, greater mobility of fully vaccinated people

Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) President Dr. Henry Lim Bon Liong expressed support for proposals which seek to help revive the Philippines’ pandemic-hit tourism industry, such as the call to reduce the quarantine period for fully vaccinated overseas travelers from ten days to five days. He also expressed support for the proposed “Bakuna Bubble” of granting greater mobility to fully vaccinated persons and businesses with fully vaccinated employees, for reopening of the Philippine economy while still protecting public health.

Here is statement of FFCCCII President Dr. Lim:

“More countries in the world are nowadays easing travel restrictions for fully vaccinated travelers, such as the United States which plans to ease foreign travel restrictions beginning in November. Foreign nationals flying into the U.S. will have to be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 within three days of their flight. Let us support proposals to grant fully vaccinated balikbayan (overseas Filipino) visitors and international tourists similar convenience, by reducing arriving international passenger quarantine period to 5 days.”

“I had been informed that in a recent meeting of the airlines, Department of Health and the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19, a proposal was made for international flights passengers will be tested 72 hours before their flights, undergo quarantine upon arrival, and take an RT-PCR test on the third day. Those passengers who test negative will be allowed to go home after the fifth day and complete their quarantine at home.”

“Airline industry people have showed data that international arrivals have not contributed significantly to COVID-19 infection rate surges, with average positivity rate was below 0.5% in the last quarter.”

“To accelerate our economic recovery, we need to support and help revive Philippine tourism. Before the pandemic lockdown, the 2019 contribution of the tourism industry to the Philippine economy was 12.7 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), generating tourism direct gross value added (TDGVA) of 2.48 trillion pesos (roughly 49.54 billion dollars) and providing 5.71 million jobs for that year. We should again rebuild our tourism industry and restore it as one of the catalysts of robust Philippine economic growth