Smile Train Philippines Announces Virtual Speech Camp 2020

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Smile Train Philippines will be holding their Speech Camp 2020, a series of virtual speech therapy classes for cleft patients during this enhanced community quarantine period (ECQ).

The world’s leading cleft organization will hold live sessions with its local experts through Facebook, which will run from April 1 to April 8, 2020.

Interested individuals may refer to the schedule below and follow the Smile Train Speech Camp page for updates: https://www.facebook.com/SpeechBySmileTrain/

Virtual Speech Therapy: April 1, 2:00-3:00PM

●      By Speech Language Pathologist Veronica Yu from the University of Sto. Tomas

DLSU Telecamp: April 4, 9:00-10:00 AM and 1:30-2:30PM

 April 8, 9:00-10:00AM

●      By the College of Rehabilitation Sciences, De La Salle University Health Sciences Institute

“Speech Camp 2020 is an initiative to enable our patients to continue their learning and speech sessions throughout the ECQ. We hope that this will also serve as an opportunity for other patients who are unable to physically attend sessions during the year,” said Smile Train South East Asia Area Director Kimmy Flaviano.

Smile Train hopes to hold more classes in the coming weeks. For more information about Smile Train’s global efforts and to donate, please visit smiletrain.org. To learn more about Smile Train’s local programs in the Philippines, please visit smiletrain.ph, follow Smile Train Philippines on Twitter and Instagram @SmileTrainPh, and like us on Facebook at @SmileTrainPhilippines.

SM distributes PPEs and medical supplies to over 50 hospitals nationwide

 Through SM Foundation, SM is donating over PhP 170 million towards the fight against COVID-19, surpassing its initial allocation of PhP 100 million, to help ensure: 

-       Healthcare workers in hospitals nationwide are armored with personal protective equipment (PPEs) – full protective suits (including for ICU use), face shields, gloves, N95 masks, surgical masks, goggles, and including raincoats as requested by some hospitals as back-up alternatives

-       Testing is made more widely available, by supporting and donating the local Manila Healthtek test kits developed by the UP-NIH team (upon DOH approval), providing the testing needs of RITM, and donating FDA-approved PCR kits sourced from Korea.

-       Providing ICU-grade ventilators to help hospitals manage patients with severe cases. 

Among the hospitals that received PPE donations as of March 27, 2020 are the following designated COVID hospitals: 

o University of the Philippines PGH

o Lung Center of the Philippines

o Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital

Major Government Hospitals:

o Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM)

o National Kidney and Transplant Institute

o San Lazaro Hospital

o East Avenue Medical Center

o Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center

o Philippine Heart Center

o National Children’s Hospital

o Rizal Medical Center

Other hospitals include, Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, Chinese General Hospital, University of the East Ramon Magsaysay (UERM) Memorial Medical Center, Manila Doctors Hospital, University of Sto. Tomas Hospital, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City, Ospital mg Muntinlupa, and more. 

Several shipments of PPEs are also on their way to provincial hospitals nationwide, including Rizal, Pampanga, Bataan, Quezon, Pangasinan, Catanduanes,  Cebu, Iloilo, Samar, Tacloban, Surigao del Sur, Cagayan de Oro, Davao, Marawi, Zamboanga, and more.

SM has committed to be of service to the Filipino public, its hospitals, and its government, in ensuring that we all contain and overcome the COVID-19 crisis together.

URC extends community support to other parts of the Philippines

Universal Robina Corporation (URC) has expanded its efforts to communities in other areas of the country, to help mitigate the spread of the deadly coronavirus in the country.

URC Sugar and Renewables Division (URC SURE) is donating relief goods as well as sanitation and hygiene products to various checkpoints and Disaster Relief and Rescue Management offices in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Batangas Province, Panay island and Tuguegarao City.

URC, along with the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF), has donated cases of Great Taste Coffee, Nissin Noodles, Vitasoy Milk, Magic Crackers and other food products to local government units.

These donations have so far reached policemen, soldiers and barangay officials manning checkpoints, in some cities in Metro Manila as well as Tarlac, Laguna, Batangas and Pampanga.

URC and GBF have also been distributing snacks, biscuits, candies, soymilk and instant coffee to several hospitals and checkpoints. These include the Philippine Lung Center, East Avenue Hospital, the Philippine Heart Center, Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, and the Department of Health’s Regional Epidemiology Surveillance Units in the National Capital Region and Region 4A.

“Since this problem is not just unique to Metro Manila, we are trying to extend our efforts across the Philippines. We’re all in the same boat, and we all must do whatever we can to help those in the frontline giving their all to keep all of us safe,” said Irwin Lee, URC president & CEO.

The Gokongwei Brothers Foundation earlier created a P100-million fund to support the government’s efforts to contain the virus.

HUAWEI P40 Series Marks the Age of Visionary Photography

Huawei Consumer Business Group (BG) launches the HUAWEI P40 Pro+, HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40, the new HUAWEI P40 Series flagship smartphones featuring cutting-edge designs with ground-breaking camera innovations that radically expand mobile photography and video capture possibilities. 

The HUAWEI P40 Series continues the series’ heritage of imaging excellence. The large 1/1.28-inch sensor has a binned pixel size measuring 2.44μm to massively boost light intake for enhanced low-light performance, while a new periscope design realises 10x true optical zoom. The HUAWEI P40 Series is powered by Kirin 990 5G and supports high-speed 5G and Wi-Fi 6 Plus. The advanced hardware is embedded in a beautiful and compact enclosure featuring the HUAWEI Quad-curve Overflow Display that delivers outstanding fluidity and responsiveness. 

Richard Yu, CEO of Huawei Consumer BG, “The HUAWEI P Series has always been about innovative aesthetics and making premium imaging hardware accessible, representing the very best of industrial design and technology. With an outstanding sensor, camera systems that we co-engineered with Leica, powerful chipset and HUAWEI XD Fusion Engine, the HUAWEI P40 Series exemplifies our focus and offers an all-day Super Definition experience to help consumers realise their creative vision.”

Unprecedented design

The HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+ are equipped with the HUAWEI Quad-curve Overflow Display. Inspired by the art of motion, the display takes on a curved edge on all four sides, creating a shape that is reminiscent of water on the cusp of overflowing from the rim of a filled cup. The super narrow bezels and streamlined round corners ensure an ergonomic hold and a near borderless look, while an enhanced in-screen fingerprint reader offers 30 percent faster biometric authentication. 

Available in three glossy glass finishes – Ice White, Deep Sea Blue and Black – and two innovative refractive matte glass finishes – Blush Gold and Silver Frost, the HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 exude classical elegance from every angle. HUAWEI P40 Pro+ features an exquisite nano-tech ceramic back panel that is kilned and polished to ensure it stands the test of time with incredible durability and timeless style. This unique design comes in two iconic colours: Ceramic White and Ceramic Black. 

All-day Super Definition photography 

Embedded in the HUAWEI P40 Series is the advanced Ultra Vision Leica camera system, available in triple-camera, quad-camera and penta-camera configurations. The HUAWEI P40 delivers outstanding photographic results with ultra wide-angle, wide-angle and telephoto lenses. The HUAWEI P40 Pro features an evolution of the Leica Quad Camera with a more powerful Ultra Wide Cine Camera and ToF Camera alongside 50x SuperSensing Zoom. The HUAWEI P40 Pro+ lets consumers see the unprecedented with the SuperZoom Array, which supports 10x true optical zoom and 100x maximum digital zoom.

The HUAWEI Ultra Vision Sensor included in the full HUAWEI P40 Series is Huawei’s largest CMOS sensor to date. Measuring 1/1.28 inches diagonally, it supports pixel binning to achieve a pixel size of 2.44μm and Full Pixel Octa PD AutoFocus for high-speed focus at any time of day, while the HUAWEI XD Fusion Engine integrates and processes data from multiple cameras to generate a comprehensive improvement in picture quality. 

HUAWEI P40 Pro brings faraway subjects up close with 5x optical zoom, 10x hybrid zoom and 50x maximum digital zoom. For the first time ever, the 5x Optical Telephoto Camera in the HUAWEI P40 Pro includes a RYYB colour filter array to boost light intake and improve quality of zoomed shots. HUAWEI P40 Pro+ has a 100x SuperZoom Array with a new periscope design that reflects light five times, extending the light path by 178 percent to support 10x true optical zoom. The optically stabilised Ultra Vision Wide Camera and SuperZoom Array work in tandem with AI to realise Triple OIS+AIS for vastly improved photo and video stabilisation. 

Skin tone and texture are faithfully reproduced by a new Multi-spectrum Colour Temperature Sensor and AI AWB algorithm that boost colour accuracy by 45 percent. Deep learning algorithms provide real-time portrait optimisations that enhance lighting and detail. HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+ have a 32MP AF Camera and IR Depth Camera that support autofocus and Bokeh reproduction to deliver the same outstanding portrait effects that are signature to Huawei devices, as well as IR Face Unlock for device unlock even in low light conditions. HUAWEI P40 Series also introduces HUAWEI Golden Snap, which includes AI Best Moment, a new smart photography feature that chooses the best frames from a Moving Picture. AI Remove Passerby and AI Remove Reflection can do away with unwanted subjects and glare from the frame, allowing users to easily enhance their images after the fact.

A powerful pocket-sized video camera 

The 40MP Ultra Wide Cine Camera in HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+ has a focal length that is equivalent to 18mm and a 1/1.54-inch sensor supporting the 3:2 aspect ratio. SedecimPixel Fusion Technology is built into this camera to support 16-in-1 pixel binning, producing super pixels that measure 4.48μm to boost light sensitivity up to ISO51200 and enable 7680fps Ultra Slow-Motion video capture.

HUAWEI P40 Series supports real-time Bokeh effects for videos. Similar to the results of a wide aperture lens, this feature adds progressive Bokeh to help highlight the main subject of the footage. The telephoto camera can capture high quality zoom footage as well as 4K time-lapse videos. Directional Audio Zoom, available on HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+, allows users to zoom in on an audio source and amplify its sound at the same time.

An all-connected 5G powerhouse

The HUAWEI P40 Series is powered by Kirin 990 5G to deliver integrated 5G connectivity with the most comprehensive 5G band support, robust AI performance and power efficiency. Display responsiveness and gaming experience are taken to the next level by the upgraded graphics rendering engine making the most of the 90Hz panel on the HUAWEI P40 Pro and HUAWEI P40 Pro+. The 160MHz Wi-Fi 6 Plus technology featured in the full line-up offers high-speed connectivity with support for 2,400Mbps peak theoretical transmission speed. The industry-leading 40W Wireless HUAWEI SuperCharge is available on the HUAWEI P40 Pro+ for fast and convenient charging. The chipset is given the thermal headroom to deliver exceptional performance by the advanced cooling systems, including the bespoke 4-in-1 SuperCool system in the HUAWEI P40 Pro+. 

The EMUI 10.1 operating system introduces a host of new features that enable a richer, more seamless AI life. HUAWEI MeeTime[1] supports 1080p Full HD video call on Huawei smartphones, tablets and the HUAWEI Vision TV and delivers clear picture quality even in low light or weak signal conditions. Users can also share their phone screen with the other party during the video call and mark-up notes to quickly share thoughts. 

Huawei Share facilitates high-speed file transfer between the smartphone and other devices such as tablets and PCs. With Huawei Share on the HUAWEI P40 Series, consumers can stream music to a smart speaker, initiate screen projection and connect to Wi-Fi by tapping the device[2] they want to connect to with their phone. New functionality added to the Multi-screen Collaboration allows users to easily answer video or voice calls hands-free directly through the PC, and open files and hyperlinks on the smartphone with native PC applications for enhanced productivity.

Working in close collaboration with global developers, Huawei offers a wide range of global and local apps on AppGallery, Huawei’s official app marketplace. Users can also enjoy a rich library of quality entertainment media on HUAWEI Video, HUAWEI Music and HUAWEI Reader, with new additions from top content providers being added on a continuous basis. 

Alongside the HUAWEI P40 Series, Huawei also launched the HUAWEI WATCH GT2e, HUAWEI Sound X and the latest Spring/Summer 2020 HUAWEI X GENTLE MONSTER Eyewear, further enriching its product portfolio of all-scenario products that are designed to help consumers live a better digital life.

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[1] Feature will be available via HOTA update. HUAWEI MeeTime is supported in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia. 

[2] Specific models of device are required for this feature. 

Araneta City's response during the COVID period

Amid the outbreak of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) that is currently in effect in Luzon, Araneta City has implemented several programs that will help our employees, tenants, and our community in these trying times.

     

Araneta City advanced last week its employees’ salary for the end of March and will continue to pay through the end of the ECQ on April 14. Sick or Vacation Leave credits will remain intact regardless of whether they are able to work from home. Employees who need to come on site are provided with assistance such as hazard pay, food, and temporary accommodation. Also, everyone will be given half of their 13th month pay in advance instead of the usual mid-year schedule.  

Meanwhile, to help mitigate the impact of COVID-19 to our retail tenant-partners as well as their employees, we are waiving the rent of all retail tenant-partners that are prevented to open for business because of the ECQ. We are hoping that the waiver will enable our tenant partners to attend to their own needs, especially those of their employees. 

Araneta City is also extending help to our immediate community in Quezon City by donating food packs to neighboring families affected by the ECQ. Later on, we will launch the #TogetherWeHeal Donation Drive in coordination with the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) to help more indigent families in Metro Manila who are displaced or affected by the health crisis. Also, JAAF has pledged to donate test kits that would provide additional support to the operations of the Quezon City General Hospital to assist our government in the speedy diagnosis of cases.

Araneta City believes in the power of bayanihan. We are doing our part in helping end the threat of this disease. We recognize the resilience of the Filipino people, and we are confident that together, we can get through this challenge. Our thoughts and our prayers are with the country. Please be safe.

Donate to One Voice Pilipinas second concert on March 29

Following the success of ONE VOICE PILIPINAS online benefit concert which raised more than P5 million cash donations, Landers Superstore, together with the Philippine Army, will be holding its second ONE VOICE PILIPINAS online concert on March 28, 7:00pm on its event host, Matteo Guidicelli’s official Facebook page, to enjoin everyone to help families in need during the calamity that was brought about by the COVID-19 virus.

The online event can be streamed on his official Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/matteog, will feature live performances from Martin Nieverra, Christian Bautista, Seth Fedelin, Ylona Garcia, Jaya, Donnalyn Bartolome and Manny Pacquiao.

The first ONE VOICE PILIPINAS concert, which went live on Landers official Facebook page, was hosted by Matteo Guidicelli with guest appearance of his wife Sarah Geronimo Guidicelli and performances from his celebrity friends including Kean Cipriano, Joey Generoso, Janine Tenoso, Jason Dy, Jed Madela, Kylie Versoza and Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo.

Send in your donation via One Voice Pilipinas’ website: www.onevoicepilipinas.landers.ph. Proceeds will be used to prepare food and will be distributed to areas with COVID-19 cases.

#OneVoicePH
#COVID19
#fightCOVID19
#FlattenTheCurve
#LandersSuperstore
#PhilippineArmy
#landersph
#LandersBalintawak
#LandersOtis
#LandersCebu
#LandersAlabangWest
#LandersArcoViaCity

AXA extends payment deadline and coverage for COVID-19

AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, is extending deadlines for payments due within the enhanced community quarantine and expanding insurance coverage related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

“This is our way of helping our customers cope with the current situation. While on quarantine, we want them to stay in their homes, be healthy, and stay safe as much as possible,” says Rahul Hora, AXA Philippines president and chief executive officer.

AXA is extending its payment grace period from 31 days to 60 days for policies due from February 15 to April 30, 2020 for all health and life insurance policies (individual and group).

In addition, AXA Global Health Access policies will cover treatments and hospitalizations related to COVID-19 until June 30, 2020 (subject to the customer’s plan coverage). Compulsory quarantine-related medical expenses will also be covered if the insured is eventually confirmed to be infected with COVID-19.

Moreover, benefits of select AXA insurance products will be paid out whether related to COVID-19 or not. These include Health Max, Health Exentials, and Health Start; Shield Rider, Critical Conditions Rider and Group Critical Illness policies and the Care Rider, Daily Hospital Income benefit under Health Exentials and Group Daily Hospital Income (DHI)  policies.

For Smart Traveller, all travel insurance policies bought before March 11, 2020 will be covered for trip cancellation or postponement due to COVID-19. For all AXA policies with life insurance coverage (individual and group policies), death benefits resulting from COVID-19 will be covered.

AXA is also continuing the services which are done in partnership with its health partners.  These services are made available to all of AXA’s life and health insurance policyholders for a limited time. With the risks that going to a hospital during the COVID-19 quarantine may entail, AXA customers may avail of medical consultations in the comfort of their own homes through accessing our health partner’s MyPocketDoctor app. With the app, policyholders have access to free 24/7 teleconsultation with a doctor for a limited period.

Through its other health partner, AIDE, customers may also have medical treatment at home and Php200 off on select healthcare servicesonce they download the AIDE app.

For customers who wish to still pay their premiums on time, payment can be made through various convenient AXA payment channels: credit card and bills payment through online banking or mobile apps (Bancnet, PSBank, Metrobank, BPI, BDO, PNB, Landbank, Union Bank, GCash, and Cliqq for individual life insurance policies and PSBank, Metrobank and Paymaya for general insurance policies).

For those who need to file for claims, customers may do so online. For life insurance policies, submit scanned copies of your documents for life claims and policy benefits to life.claims@axa.com.ph. To download forms and to check requirements, please visit www.axa.com.ph/self-service. 

To keep updated on customer advisories, visit www.axa.com.ph or talk to an agent at (02) 8581 5292 from Monday to Friday at 8am to 5pm. Customers may also e-mail customer.service@axa.com.ph.