mWell Enhances Mental Health Access with Affordable Counseling, Mind Health Score, and Wellness Tools

 

In response to mental health issues affecting millions of Filipinos, mWell, the digital healthcare arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, strengthens its holistic health and wellness platform with affordable mind health services. Following the launch of the Mind Health Score in May, mWell now offers sessions with certified mind health coaches for as low as ₱499. As the only Philippine health and wellness app available globally, mWell provides mind health support to students, workforce members, and Overseas Filipino Workers. 

Mind health experts from Mental Health Hour Manila may be reached using the mWell app.

Certified mind health coaches, who are located across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao and speak various dialects such as Ilocano and Bisaya are ready to provide support in a fully confidential session.

 

mWell Chairman and MPIC Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan says, “mWell aims to transcend geographic boundaries and provide holistic wellness to our countrymen. Mental wellness is an important part of this, and helps us to make the most out of our lives. We look forward to helping even more Filipinos take control of their health wherever they may be.”

 

“As an advocate of holistic health, mWell is here to help through our Mind Health Score and self-guided modules. We have also made it affordable and accessible for everyone. By becoming healthier in mind and in body, Filipinos can provide better for their family, help the economy, and contribute to uplifting the country and the world,” said mWell CEO and President and MPIC Chief Finance, Risk, and Sustainability Officer Chaye Cabal- Revilla. 

 

Empowering Students, OFWs, and Members of the Workforce with Digital Mind Health Tools

According to recent reports, there is an urgent need for more mental health support for students. To address this need, mWell empowers them using the app’s Mind Health Score feature. 

 

Based on the World Health Organization (WHO) Well-being Index, this exclusive feature contains modules that help boost self-awareness, foster empowerment, hope, and positivity through evidence-based techniques. It allows mWell users to improve their overall mental well-being at their own pace. 

mWell also promotes holistic wellness programs to help students reduce the risk of depression, anxiety, and stress through campus tours across the country. 

 

To address the mental health needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), mWell has partnered with the Department of Migrant Workers, (DMW), Ding.com and PLDT Global to make mind health services accessible to them.

 

This ensures that OFWs can connect with Filipino mind health coaches and counselors with features and services that can help them manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges while away from home. 

 

mWell also works with various companies to create customized programs promoting holistic health for increased productivity in the workplace. The Mind Health features equip members of the workforce with tools to address stress and anxiety, enhancing work performance and well-being. 

 

 

Mind health issues affect more Filipinos

 

Mental health continues to be a sensitive issue in the Philippines, with many enduring in silence. The Department of Health (DOH) reports that at least 3.6 million Filipinos suffer from mental, neurological, and substance use disorders. According to the Philippine Mental Health Association there is less than one mental health worker for every 100,000 Filipinos. Access to mental health services remains limited due to the high cost, ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱4,500 per session.

Mind Healthsavers: Affordable, accessible professional counseling 

 

To address the lack of access to mental health experts, mWell gives an accessible platform for Filipinos. In partnership with experts from Mental Health Hour Manila, mWell introduces Mind Healthsavers—an exclusive package offering 30-minute video sessions for as low as ₱499. The collaboration allows coaches across the country to provide support in a fully confidential session, and even recommend specialized treatment.

 

“While conversations about mental illness are growing, we must also create safe spaces that truly listen to those in need. Mental Health Hour Manila is committed to this mission. And with our partnership with mWell, we are expanding to the most remote areas nationwideand abroad. Our goal is to bridge the gap between mental illness and support, break the stigma, and empower individuals to be self-sufficient. We are grateful to God for making this possible through our collaboration with mWell.” says Arianne Alvarez, Co-founder and President of Mental Health Hour Manila.

 

To complement the Mind Health offer, the mWellness Score providesan overall physical health score daily. This allows users to monitor physical activity, step count, and sleep for long-term health. With its gamification feature, users may join wellness challenges, check their rank in the leaderboard, and monitor their progress. The mWellnessScore works best when paired with Wearables like the mWell Watch and Rings. 

 

As part of the MPIC Group, mWell is committed to working towards the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. It also supports the MVP Group’s Gabay Kalusugan advocacy focusing on quality and affordable healthcare.

 

Follow mWell on Facebook and mWellph on Instagram for more updates. 

 

PLDT High Speed Hitters Showcase ‘Puso,’ Aim to Close PVL Reinforced Conference with a Victory

 

 

The drum beats on for the PLDT High Speed Hitters as they shoot to clinch a third-place finish in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference on Wednesday, September 4. Although not in the championship game at the PhilSports Arena, Pasig City, the High Speed Hitters are committed to finish the conference with “puso” ringing through the end.

 

The Manuel V. Pangilinan-backed team lost their finals ticket after a heartbreaking 22-25, 25-18, 25-22, 24-26, 15-17 loss against the Akari Chargers in the knockout semifinal.

 

“Personally, nahirapan akong tanggapin nung una kasi feeling ko malapit na naming maabot ang goal namin as a team,” said team captain Kath Arado. “Pero kahit masakit para sa amin kung ano ang naging outcome ng game, pinakita ng team kung gaanosila ka-professional bilang manlalaro at ka-passionate sa sport. For this, I remain thankful.”

 

PLDT's conference stint was the epitome of “puso,” as the team played the entire tournament without leading local scorers in Savi Davison and Kianna Dy – who were both out due to injury. Despite that, the team made a spirited run to the semifinals, facing the undefeated Akari Chargers as the fourth overall seed.

 

The High Speed Hitters were close to sealing the deal, but breaks of the game did not turn into their favor. They ultimately fell short of a finals stint against powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers, facing sister team Cignal HD Spikers for the bronze medal instead.

 

Puso = power

“Despite these tough times, we remain committed to finishing the tournament. Puso ang ipanlalaban namin,” said Arado. “Masnanaig pa din yung integrity na gusto naming i-instill sa bawatisa na lalaban kami palagi nang tapat at patas. Dahil para saakin, dito mas mahuhubog yung loob at isip namin tanggapinano man ang mangyari at palaging mag-set ng positive mindset sa mga bagay na mahal namin kagaya ng volleyball.”

 

Arado, a three-time PVL Best Libero, registered 19 excellent digs in their last match, supporting setter Kim Fajardo’s efficient and well-distributed plays. Import Lena Samoilenko led PLDT’s scoresheet at 30 points, with contributions from Erika Santos (15 pts.), Fiola Ceballos (14 pts.), Majoy Baron (7 pts.), and the returning Mika Reyes (7 pts.).

 

Although the team lost in deflating fashion, the team remains inspired by the love sent on social media from the throngs of supporters the team has and had gained over the past few days. On Monday night, X (formerly Twitter) saw “We stand with PLDT” trending in relation to the team’s ongoing quest.

 

Fighting the good fight

Head coach Rald Ricafort shares that the team is very much inspired by the overwhelming, all-out support. He intends to use it as a major rallying cry to end the conference on a high note.

 

“I just constantly remind them who we are as a team. That we did everything the right way with purpose, integrity, and the growth mindset na nakatulong sa amin throughout the years,” said Ricafort.

 

“I think more than the motivation of getting a podium finish, these players remain very focused and disciplined. As we pursuea winning culture and try to help them reach the next level, yungfocus at disiplina talaga nila ang nagdadala. They also truly trust each other, including us as coaches,” he added.

While the team was understaffed, Ricafort was adamant the team did not do anything special to adjust – banking on the trust he had for his wards that they would deliver.

 

“There were some bumps along the way, especially sa mgacrucial games na hindi namin nakukuha, but we know and they understand that success doesn’t come easily. That it’s a process. Still, I feel and believe that we are on the right direction,” he concluded.

 

Catch the PLDT High Speed Hitters’ remaining game at the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference on September 4, 4PM at the PhilSports Arena, Pasig City. Stay tuned for updates by following the team on Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.

 

Explore the latest series of toys with Jollibee’s Dora and her friends

 Learn, play, and go on a new adventure with Dora! in the new Jollibee Kids Meal! You and your kids can join Dora and her friends in Dora: Learn & Explore, the latest series of toys that feature handy gadgets that help you learn and discover, just like your favorite adventurer! 

Each toy is a helpful device that Dora and her friends can use to create a fun learning experience. The Dora Wonder Whistle helps you call fellow adventurers to help you out, while Boots Explorer Lens gets you to see wonderful sights up-close. 

 

Backpack Translator Buddy gives you a quick way to learn new words in a different language, and the Camera Swap & Save lets you learn more about Dora’s friends, and other creatures you can find in their journey ahead. With all these tools, you can surely make each adventure colorful and educational!

 

Each Dora: Learn and Explore playset is available with every purchase of a Yumburger with Drink (PHP 120.00), YumburgerSolo (PHP 95.00), Jolly Spaghetti with Drink (PHP 140.00), Jolly Spaghetti Solo (PHP 115.00), 1-pc. Burger Steak with Drink (PHP 140.00), 1-pc. Burger Steak (PHP 115.00), 1-pc. Chickenjoy with Drink (PHP 162.00), 1-pc. Chickenjoy Solo (PHP 137.00), 4-pc. Chicken Nuggets with Drink (PHP 140.00), and 4-pc. Chicken Nuggets Solo (PHP 115.00).

 

The promo is available on September 1, 2024, so don’t miss a chance to collect all of the Dora: Learn & Explore Playsets!

 

Get your Jollibee Kids Meals in your nearest Jollibee branch or have them delivered through the Jollibee App, calling the #8700 hotline, foodpanda, or Grab.

 

For more info on Jollibee Kids Meals and other products, follow Jollibee on Facebook, and @jollibee on Twitter and Instagram.

HUAWEI Unveils TruSense System: A New Milestone in Science-Driven Health & Fitness Technology

On August 28, HUAWEI TruSense System was unveiled to the world. This innovation-driven system marks another milestone in bringing accurate, science-based health & fitness tech to users.

Huawei entered the wearables space 11 years ago and, to date, has shipped over 150 million wearables and secured more than 520 million users for its Huawei Health app. According to IDC, in the first quarter of 2024, Huawei ranked #1 in the world in terms of on-the-wrist wearables shipped, and has been the leading wearable brand in the Chinese market for five consecutive years.

"HUAWEI TruSense is a major breakthrough for us in health and fitness sensor technology and will keep us at the forefront of technological development in this space. This digital health advancement will further help users pursue healthier lifestyles," said Mr. Rico Zhang, President of Huawei's Smart Wearable and Health Product Line, speaking at the HUAWEI TruSense launch event.

Consumers around the world are more health conscious than ever before, and this has created demand for convenient, comprehensive, and accurate monitoring capabilities. Huawei's response to this demand is a system that integrates all of the company's latest advances in vital sign monitoring — HUAWEI TruSense System, a new digital health & fitness paradigm that's defined by six key characteristics: accuracy, comprehensiveness, speed, flexibility, openness, and iteration.

To ensure the long-term accuracy of its continuous vital sign monitoring, as well as deliver faster results, Huawei invested heavily in optical, electrical, and material science research, with the aim of overcoming the challenges that different skin tones, wrist sizes, and weather conditions pose to various sensors. Thanks to Huawei's innovations, the accuracy of basic indicators such as heart rate, SpO2, and blood pressure has been certified by authoritative industry bodies.

HUAWEI TruSense measures more than 60 health and fitness indicators, covering six of the body's major systems, and also includes an emotional wellbeing component. Sensors monitor the user's heart rate and autonomic nervous system data. This data is fed into an algorithm that produces an assessment of the user's emotional wellbeing and stress levels, to help users enjoy the benefits of both a healthy body and a healthy mind.

The flexibility, openness, and ongoing iteration of HUAWEI TruSense System empower partners from every corner of the world and every part of the digital health ecosystem to participate in shaping the future of health and fitness technology. In this domain, Huawei has collaborated with over 150 partners on pioneering research in areas ranging from remote healthcare to family health management.

In the coming years, Huawei will strive to stay at the cutting edge of health and fitness science and enrich users' lives with more innovations. 

IKEA Philippines Welcomes the Holidays with the Launch of the VINTERFINT Christmas Collection at IKEA Pasay

 With the Christmas spirit in the air, IKEA Philippines is marking the season with its largest price adjustment ever. True to its vision to “create a better everyday life for the many people,” IKEA Philippines continues to step up with the Swedish home furnishing brand’s proactive effort in making home life easier and more affordable for the many Filipino families.

According to the IKEA Life at Home Report 2023, 43 percent of Filipinos are most concerned about their household finances and disposable income. Additionally, 38 percent of Filipinos say that not having enough money to care for their home is a major reason that makes them feel less in control of their daily lives. In response, IKEA is committed to creating a better everyday life for the many people by offering affordable solutions that help Filipinos feel more in control and find joy in their homes.

Starting 1 September, IKEA will be bringing down prices on the things that matter most for the many Filipinos. Exactly 2,000 of 9,753 products, which is 20 percent of the IKEA product range, will now be available at even lower prices. Filipinos can expect the same great quality IKEA has been known for in the lower-price lineup which includes the SKOGSFRÄKEN pillow that ensures maximum comfort for better sleep, MURVEL shoe organiser which is a perfect solution for storing shoes in style and saving space, BESTÄMMA food container with lid offering a simple and reliable storage solution for packed meals or leftovers, fast-drying VAGSJON hand towel that adds a touch of softness and style to the bathroom with its pure cotton material, MIDDAGSMAT pot with lid makes cooking easier and more enjoyable with it fast-heating and lightweight design, and the AFJALL foam mattress that offers superior comfort and support for a restful sleep.

Along with this wide-ranging price reduction, on 26 August, IKEA Philippines reduced the cost of Truck Delivery nationwide to a fixed price of PHP 600, which is down from the previous maximum of PHP 1,990. Additionally, Click & Collect services are now free of charge (previously PHP 590) at all IKEA Collection Points nationwide located in Pasay City, Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Pampanga, Zambales, Tarlac, Pangasinan, Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, and Misamis Oriental.

Moreover, customers who visit IKEA Pasay City can enjoy lower prices on select food offerings, such as meatless lasagna for just PHP 99 (previously PHP 199) and a hotdog with drinks combo for only PHP 59 (previously PHP 79).

“Our commitment to making quality home essentials more affordable is a reflection of our dedication to the many Filipinos,” said Gerard Jansen, Country Retail Director, IKEA Philippines and Singapore. “This early Christmas price drop is our way of helping families navigate the holiday season with greater ease and joy.”

As the Philippines now welcomes the ber months, you can think of these lowered prices as an early gift from IKEA to every Filipino home by making it easier for everyone to create a space they love with IKEA home furnishings that are now even more affordable.

Get into the Christmas spirit as early as September with new items from the beloved VINTERFINT collection, such as holiday decors, textiles, lighting, and Christmas trees. By letting you add a festive touch or helping you prepare for holiday gatherings, the VINTERFINT collection will bring the warmth and joy of Christmas in the homes of many Filipinos.

This holiday season, let IKEA transform your house into a home with great quality at even lower prices. Start creating the home you’ve always wanted—shop with IKEA today and bring joy and comfort to every corner of your home. Visit IKEA Pasay City or the IKEA online store at www.IKEA.ph.

realme FanFest 2024 Brings Fans Together for a Day to Remember

Smartphone brand realme once again proved why it's a fan favorite with their recently concluded realme FanFest 2024 last August 28 at Quantum Skyview, Gateway Mall 2, Quezon City.

The annual event, held especially for the realme Squad, was a spectacular celebration of the realme community, packed with exciting activities, competitions, andmemorable performances.

The energy at realme FanFest 2024 was palpable, especially during the real You 2024 Ambassador Search that sought out the next faces of the realme brand. Diego Aranda and Sammie Amboy emerged as the newest ambassadors of realme, each winning P100,000 in cash, P50,000 worth of realme products, and a one-year contract as realme brand ambassadors.

Equally exciting was the real Craze Dance Competition, where dance crew OBS Fuego Eterno stole the show with their high-energy performance and took home the P50,000 grand prize. 

Amid all the excitement, the Squad got to experience firsthand the four brand new realme products, the realme 13 Pro+ 5G, the realme 13 Pro 5G, the realme Watch S2, and the realme Buds T310.

The realme 13 Pro Series 5G took the spotlight and had everyone in awe. This latest offering from realme showcases a beautiful Monet-inspired design and Ultra Clear Camera with AI that acts just like a "DSLR in your pocket."

The event also featured engaging sessions with special guests, including director and photographer John Manalo, who shared his experience with the Ultra Clear Photography of the realme 13 Pro Series. He shared tips and tricks on photography and how best to use the series’ latest camera capabilities.

Hosts Aiyana Perlas and JC Tevez amplified the crowd's energy. At the same time, realme guests CK de Leon and Miguel Echano brought their charm to the activity booths, interacting with fans and creating unforgettable moments.

Many attendees also went home with realme products, and two lucky realme Squad members walked away with brand-new realme 13 Pro 5G units, adding to the day’s excitement.

The grand finale was spectacular, with musical performances from two of today's most popular artists in the OPM scene, Dionela and Cup of Joe, who lit up the realme FanFest stage.

Dionela serenaded the crowd with his soulful voice and viral hits, including Sining and Hoodie. At the same time, Cup of Joe took everyone by storm with their passionate performances of Tingin, Estranghero, and Misteryoso.

Their sets had the crowd singing and dancing, drawing the realme FanFest 2024 to a vibrant close. 

By bringing together technology, creativity, and fun, realme continues to strengthen its bond with the realme Squad, promising even more exciting experiences in the future.

For those eager to get their hands on the realme 13 Pro Series 5G, customers can head to the nearest realme Store and sign up for the pre-order period until September 4. The Squad can get a realme Care+ Screen Protection Plan worth P1,299 as a freebie, plus a Mystery Gift Box with items worth up to P29,000. After the pre-order period, customers can still avail of the Mystery Gift Box until September 15.

Meanwhile, the realme Watch S2 and the realme Buds T310 are now available at a discounted price on realme’s official TikTok Shop until September 3 but customers can also cop from realme Stores and authorized dealers nationwide. 

To stay updated about the latest announcements from realme, head over to realme’s official Facebook page.

 

Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most from Google Gemini

 Google’s Gemini AI has a lot of benefits for you, no matter who you are and what you need. It can help organize your work and your life, or jumpstart the creative process for any project you’re working on.

 

Gemini can supercharge your creativity and productivity, parse large amounts of data and information, and it can even find new ideas that may not have come to you as easily. Letting it do the work can free up a lot of brainpower on your end, allowing you to work with it to create the best possible work you can do every time. This can happen as long as you use strong, clear, and specific prompts that definitively tell Gemini how to help you.

Next time you’re using Gemini to brainstorm and come up with new ideas, try the following:

● Define the desired role or persona for the AI. This ensures that Gemini has a thorough understanding of your requirements and can offer the most effective support. For example, if you need help planning a social media campaign, you could start by saying "Act as a social media manager". Then, describe the campaign goals and any specific platforms or content formats you have in mind. This will allow Gemini to generate ideas and suggestions that are tailored to your needs and objectives.

● Talk to it like you would a friend or coworker. Some people may not know the basic way of speaking to Gemini. Ask it, for example, to “write an initial marketing plan” for one of your upcoming campaigns instead of just saying “marketing plan” in your prompt. Avoid using acronyms or jargons that Gemini might not immediately understand.

● Be really specific with it. If you have all the information you need, you have to give it to Gemini to get the most thorough output possible. If you’re coming up with creative output, be sure to give it a quick background of your company or brand (or yourself), who the audience is, and what you want to achieve.

● Avoid making things too complicated. When you ask Gemini for something, be sure to make it simple. Imagine that you’re asking someone else, or you’re being asked — you wouldn’t want to get instructions that you have to decipher to get started on. Be clear and concise.

● If you need to ask Gemini for follow-ups, make it a conversation. It’s inevitable that Gemini won’t always give you the work you were really looking for. When you need something more from it, again, it helps to talk to it naturally. If a task is too complicated, you can break it down further into smaller and simpler tasks. Don’t worry – it can keep up.

● Don't let valuable insights slip away! Pin important conversations with Gemini to keep them easily accessible. Whether you need to reference past suggestions, revisit key decisions, or simply maintain continuity, pinning ensures your most valuable chats are just a click away.

 

Armed with these new insights, your next session with Gemini will definitely be better. Try these tips out now at https://gemini.google.com/app.