Real Talk Darbs—Transforming Lives Through Video Marketing

 

Darbie Kim Estrebilla

From an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) in Dubai to a powerhouse in the Philippine content creation industry, Darbie Kim Estrebilla—widely known as Real Talk Darbs—has charted an unconventional yet inspiring path.

Darb’s journey began with a simple realization: he had a natural talent for communication. What started as a lightbulb moment in a weight loss challenge eventually evolved into one of the country's most influential video marketing brands.

Real Talk Darbs is not just about creating content but creating creators who drive transformation. At its core, the brand believes that “one changed soul is worth more than a billion views.”

Darbie’s mission is to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and strategies to grow their businesses using video marketing, eliminating the need to work abroad for financial security. If that isn’t a mission worth supporting, I don’t know what is.

Having spent a decade as an OFW, Darbie understands the struggles of Filipinos seeking better opportunities overseas. His experience taught him that financial stability isn’t limited by geography—it’s about leveraging the right platforms.

Today, through Real Talk Darbs and House Creatives, the company Darb’s founded,he provides business owners with accessible, results-driven marketing education, proving that strategic content creation can be a game-changer.

While many digital marketing courses remain exclusive to agencies or high-paying clients, RealTalk Darbs disrupts the industry by making premium knowledge accessible. Darbie simplifies complex video marketing strategies, ensuring that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can compete on the same level as major corporations. His approach is rooted in experience, not theory—what he teaches comes from strategies he has personally tried and tested.

The shift to business education wasn’t immediate.

In his early years, Darbie gained massive traction discussing viral social topics, with one of his videos reaching eight million views in just 24 hours. Yet, rather than fulfillment, he felt empty. That moment of self-reflection led him to pivot from trending topics to transformational content.

Today, Real Talk Darbs focuses on helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses through compelling video storytelling.

Darbie’s vision for the future is bold: he aims to establish himself as the category king in video marketing for businesses, make premium education free through content, and host a 3,000- person live event by December. More than just a content creator, he is a catalyst for change, empowering Filipinos to thrive in a digital economy.

The Manila Hotel Offers Special Promotions this March

 

This March, The Manila Hotel invites guests to indulge in a culinary journey, such as the Alimango Festival, refreshing summer treats, and sumptuous seasonal favorites.

The Alimango Festival at Café Ilang-Ilang

The Manila Hotel is delighted to present theAlimango Festival, a celebration of the rich and flavorful goodness of mud crab. Available starting March onwards, visitors can indulge in a luxurious array of alimango dishes, served only during dinnerfrom Thursday to Saturday at Café Ilang-Ilang. "We are thrilled to introduce the Alimango Festival. Our culinary team has prepared a line of dishes that showcases the taste of this favorite seafood, promising an unforgettable dining experience for our visitors," said EJ Yap, assistant director for food and beverage.

Patrons can relish both traditional and new dishes of alimango as part of Café Ilang-Ilang grand dinner buffet, which offers a wide range of international and local cuisine.

Beat the Heat with Summer Treats at the Lobby Lounge and Pool Bar

With warm weather signaling its return, Lobby Lounge and Pool Bar offers a dessert buffet and cool desserts, ideal for cooling off in the sun and satisfying your sweet, tropical taste buds. Guests can indulge in old time favorites like Buko Halo-Halo, Tropical Banana Split, Thai-style Mango Delight paired with sticky rice pudding, MinatamisnaSaging at MantecadoSorbetes, Kit Kat Crepes, and Dreamy Dizzle—topped with barquillos, chocolate candies, and the rest. These warm weather treats can be had through March at the Lobby Lounge and Pool Bar.

Indulge in the Art of Raclette

Indulge in the comforting and warm flavor of Raclette at the Lobby Lounge. Customers are invited to dine with friends and family to relish in a rich cheese delight as they are served with a variety of Raclette types: Traditional Swiss Raclette, Prawn Raclette, Italian Raclette, Sausage Raclette, and Vegetable Raclette. This is available at Php 1,380 per serving.

A Delicious Treat: Walnut Fig Bread at the Delicatessen

For the health-conscious foodie who simply can't help but give in to indulgence, Delicatessen offers its Walnut Fig Bread as a clever mix of crunchy walnuts and juicy fresh figs. Available daily at Php 480 a slice, this artisanal bread is a great partner for any meal or a warm dessert on its own.

For reservations, call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500, or email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com.

Four ways Filipinas can maintain a healthy heart

 

In their 20s, women worried about acne and dysmenorrhea; in their 30s, they focused on reproductive health; in their 40s, they got their first mammogram; in their 50s, they sought ways to manage the effects of perimenopause. Throughout their lives, women are primed to watch out for female-associated conditions like breast cancer, cervical cancer, and maternal mortality. But what about heart health?

Both men and women are susceptible to heart disease, with common risk factors including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. However, women face unique risk factors, including hormonal changes associated with perimenopause and pregnancy.

“Estrogen, which declines during perimenopause and menopause, is known to help keep the blood vessels relaxed and open, which in turn helps maintain healthy blood pressure. It also helps control cholesterol levels, preventing plaque buildup in arteries,” reveals Jasmin Melissa B. Bernardo, MD of the Department of Cardiology of top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) and current President of the Philippine Society of Vascular Medicine. “Meanwhile, complications during pregnancy like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes could increase a woman’s risk of future heart health issues.”

There’s nothing wrong with loving yourself a little bit more. Ladies, start with these four heart-friendly tips from MakatiMed.

Know your numbers. 

“One of the reasons why stroke is the second leading cause of death in the Philippines is because few Filipinos know their average blood pressure—much less the fact that they’ve been hypertensive all this time and haven’t done anything about it. Aim for a blood pressure of 120/80 mm Hg or less,” says Dr. Bernardo. “Always seek to achieve and maintain normal results – normal lipid profile, normal sugar, normal weight.” Monitor these figures during your company’s annual checkup or commit to seeing a family physician at least once a year.

Don’t disregard the symptoms. 

When it comes to heart attacks, women’s symptoms vary slightly from men’s. “Yes, they too experience pressure on their chest,” shares Dr. Bernardo. “But they also have jaw or back pain, nausea and vomiting, weakness in the arms, and flu-like symptoms. If you feel unwell, err on the safe side and check your blood pressure and heart rate, apart from the symptoms. If you think something is amiss, contact your primary physician—or bring yourself to the emergency room.”

Eat better, move more. 

Fast food may be the most convenient way to squeeze in lunch on a packed workday or serve dinner to the family because you were too busy to cook, but it isn’t as good for your health. “Ideally, a meal loaded with vegetables and complemented with lean protein and complex carbs is a heart-healthy choice,” says Dr. Bernardo. “Try to exercise for 40-60 minutes four times a week. 

Exercise lowers blood pressure and blood sugar, keeps you at a healthy weight, and releases endorphins, ‘happy hormones’ that naturally lift the spirit. Can’t go to the gym because you were stuck at the office? Walk every chance you get. Aim for 7,000 to 10,000 steps a day.

Dr. Bernardo underlines that even if you can’t reach 10,000 steps a day, simple adjustments like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, choosing parking spots further away from the destination, engaging in household chores, and adding light exercises throughout the day like squats, stretches, jumping jacks, and even running in place can significantly help improve your heart health. Investing in a fitness tracker to monitor steps and activities may also help you evaluate your progress.

Manage stress. 

Single women, wives, mothers, and career women will definitely benefit from some much-needed time out from work and home life. “Go on leave. See friends. Exercise. Meditate. Sleep. Consult a professional if the stress becomes overwhelming. The break will clear your mind and energize you, giving you renewed motivation to face demanding days at home or in the workplace,” emphasizes Dr. Bernardo.

“Women can do it all, but they also have to remember that they are not exempt from heart disease—or any disease for that matter,” adds Dr. Bernardo. “Easy changes in your lifestyle and attitude towards heart health help a lot in keeping you healthy and happy for years to come.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email

mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and

Twitter.

CCP Brings Cinemalaya films for Women Deprived of Liberty (WDL) in Visayas

 

In celebration of the 2025 National Women’s Month, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) presents Lakbay Sine Para sa mga Inday, special online screenings of selected award-winning Cinemalaya films for Women Deprived of Liberty (WDL) in three jails in Iloilo City, Pototan-Iloilo, and Bacolod City every Sunday and Monday of March.

Bringing the stories inside to shed light on the lived experiences of incarcerated women, this program hopes to unite artists beyond prison walls through a series of online film screenings and talkbacks involving over 500 detainees in three jails -  Iloilo City District Jail Female Dormitory (ICDJFD),  Iloilo District Jail Female Dormitory (IDJFD) Pototan Iloilo  and Metro Bacolod District Jail Female Dormitory (MBDJFD).  This cultural caregiving initiative directly addresses the needs of some of the most underserved women artists behind bars—persons/women deprived of liberty (PDL/WDL)—who often remain invisible, voiceless, powerless, and marginalized.

Set to be screened are the following Cinemalaya films by women, about women and for women: 

Sanglaan by Milo Sogueco, Mayohan by Dan Villegas and Paul Sta. Ana, Balota by Kip Oebanda, The Baseball Player by Carlo Obispo, Pan de Salawal by Che Espiritu, Utwas and Mga Handum nga Nasulat sa Baras by Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico, and Primetime Mother by Sonny Calvento. 

The screening schedules are:  Iloilo on March 9, 16, 23, and 30, Sundays, 9-11 a.m., and in Pototan and Bacolod on March 10, 17, 24, and 31, Mondays, 2-4 p.m.

Full-length film Sanglaan looks at seemingly simple relationships and uncomplicated events happening in a very mundane institution through a variety of characters.  This light, funny, poignant, and very Pinoy story about hope and redemption won Balanghai trophies for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress at the 2009 Cinemalaya, as well as the INALCO Jury Award at the Vesoul Asian Film Festival.

Set in Infanta, Quezon where locals celebrate the good harvest and pay tribute to Virgin Mary every May 31, Mayohan follows the story of a 15-year-old young man and a 19-year-old provincial lass who become entangled in an unlikely partnership; each in their own search for growth and acceptance. The film bagged four Balanghai trophies for Best Actress, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, and Best Original Music Score for the New Breed category of Cinemalaya in 2010.

In Balota, a teacher pays an increasingly steep price for defending the democratic process of the election. The film won numerous accolades for Marian Rivera’s performance at the 2024 Cinemalaya, Rising Filipino Awards, 2024 TAG Victorious Awards Chicago, 3rd Gawad Dangal Filipino Awards, and 4th Primetime Media Choice Awards.

The Baseball Player centers on a 17-year-old Moro child soldier whose father was killed in an all-out war in 2000.  He dreams to live a different life and become a baseball player.  Unfortunately, another all-out war against Moro rebels breaks out in 2003, and he is confronted with making a choice between pursuing his dream or fighting in the war.  The film won four Balanghai trophies for Best Film, Best Actor, Best Screenplay, and Best Editing at the 2022 Cinemalaya.

In Pan de Salawal, protagonist Sal and his suffering neighbors—a trembling barber, a paralyzed dancer, and a sick meat vendor—find hope in Aguy, a 7-year-old Visayan girl with a miraculous gift. She heals by inflicting pain, but despite her powers, she cannot cure Sal.  As he weakens, Aguy faces a heartbreaking choice: to save him, she must hurt him in the worst way possible.  The film won Best Director, Best Original Music Score, and three Special Jury Prizes for director Anna Francesca “Che” Espiritu and actors Miel Espinoza and Juan Miguel Emmanuel Salvado at the 2018 Cinemalaya.

Utwas is a short film about a boy who attains a deeper connection with the ocean as he learns to be one with it.  It was a finalist at the 2019 Cinemalaya, and it won Best Picture, Best Cinematography, and Best Direction at the 7th Cinekasimanwa: The Western Visayas Film Festival.  

In Mga Handum nga Nasulat sa Baras, three young boys wake up to an announcement on a new educational system where parents must take an exam to determine whether they are fit to teach their children.  Knowing that their parents are not as privileged and knowledgeable as they are, Makoy, Kaloy and Buknoy try their best to teach their parents what they need to know for their exam.  The film depicts how parents become teachers to their children, and how children become teachers to their parents.  The film won Best Short Film at the 2022 Cinemalaya.

Primetime Mother is a comedy-drama film about an exploitative TV game show’s audition process that tests a long-suffering mother’s fortitude and tenacity.  It won two Balanghai trophies for Best Short Film and Best Screenplay at the 2024 Cinemalaya.

At the heart of this initiative is the understanding of fundamental human psychological needs particularly in vulnerable situations, as highlighted by Dr. Ma Lourdes “Honey” Carandang (Philippines’ foremost Clinical Psychologist, a National Social Scientist and founder of MLAC – Mindfulness, Love, and Compassion Institute for Psychological Services, Inc.).  These include the need for self-expression, where the arts provide a crucial outlet, and the need for transcendence and beauty which foster faith and hope even in dire circumstances.

The special screening project is organized through the Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division and the Cultural Exchange Department, in partnership with Super Inday Prison Art Project, a CCP Kalinga ng Sining grantee.

The CCP Lakbay Sine is a film program that brings different film projects, such as the CCP Cine Icons, Cinemalaya, Gawad Alternatibo, to different regions, partner communities, organizations, and campuses primarily to popularize the works of Filipino filmmakers and encourage film appreciation among the youth and the general public.

The prison arts program seeks to break through the boredom, hopelessness, darkness of anxiety and depression by offering spaces for artistic expression, healing, inspiration, and transformation. Through the power of cinema and storytelling, the value of expressive arts emerges—not only as a medium for pain to be transcended into beauty but also as a profound healing force for the self and the collective.

As the premiere arts and culture institution of the country, the CCP continues to provide a platform for women’s narratives through its creative programming, recognizing the importance of representation in its programs, festivals, shows, and projects. 

To get the latest updates on upcoming screenings from the CCP Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division (CCP-FBNMD), follow the official CCP and CCP-FBNM social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Big Bad Wolf Books Continues to Weave Success Stories and Transform Lives with First Book Sale of 2025 in Clark, Pampanga

 

Kampampangans, brace yourselves as the World’s Biggest Book Sale returns to

Pampanga. This Book Sale promises an extraordinary experience for every budding

reader and book lover. Prepare to be launched into a world of stories at the Big Bad

Wolf Book Sale from March 14 to 23 at SMX Convention Center Clark,

from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Big Bad Wolf Books is kicking off its first book sale of 2025 in Clark, Pampanga,

officially opening a year filled with stories that will inspire and transform lives.

As Big Bad Wolf Books opens its doors, it continues to fuel readers’ passion

and drive with its collection of stories, from thought-provokin biographies

to eye-opening non-fiction, and heart-racing fiction. Whatever the goal or

dream may be, Big Bad Wolf Books celebrates every win.

 Sharing the transformative power of reading at every book sale, Big Bad Wolf

Books continues to champion every reader’s unique journey to personal growth.

Anchored on the idea of “Your Story, Our Story,” Big Bad Wolf Books supports and

uplifts each individual’s pursuit for knowledge and self-discovery, making each

reader’s success a part of Big Bad Wolf Books’ story.

Starting this year’s tour on a high note, Big Bad Wolf Books lined up exciting deals

and activities that will surely make every Wolfie’s visit more fun and meaningful.

Whether it’s discovering hidden gems, meeting a new reading buddy, or just exploring

Wolfie’s lair, every moment at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale in Clark is sure to gear you

up for an epic year of reading. 

Big Bad Wolf Books hosted a unique event for both media and

influencers to kick off the very first book sale of the season.

Together with Clark Development Corporation (CDC), Big Bad Wolf

Books took attendees on an exciting bus tour that immersed them

in Clark’s history and allowed them to experience the thrill

of discovery that Big Bad Wolf Books offers. Guests visited El Kabayo

and the Clark Museum, and were treated to fun activities and mini-games. 

Geetha Nair Speech

Big Bad Wolf Books PR Head Geetha Nair remarked, “The bus tour in Clark

is a great introduction to the Big Bad Wolf Books experience.”

She added, “Big Bad Wolf Booksis not just about offering great books;

it’s about sharing knowledge globally to inspire and empower people

to write their own life stories." She continued,“We are thrilled that we get

to be a part of that journey by making books accessible and affordable.

Every readers’ milestone, achievement, and victory becomes part of

our story too. We are honored to celebrate that with you.”

Commenting on Clark being the first location of the year, Big Bad Wolf

Books Project Director Ley Almeda shared, “Clark is a beautiful city,

buzzing with energy,and we’re glad to be back to launch our 2025 tour.

We’re excited to see the vibrant community explore this year’s collection,

and we can’t wait for them to enjoy what we prepared for them.

Big Bad Wolf Books has plenty more tricks up its sleeves, throwing in

unexpected delights to make every visit an exciting story of discovery.

Get ready to embark on a literary journey like no other. With over

2 million books, unbelievable deals, and exciting activities that will

surprise you at every turn, the first Big Bad Wolf Book Sale of 2025

is one you wouldn’t want to miss. 

Gather your pack, grab your book wishlist, and fill your year with incredible

stories from the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale in Clark. Follow Big Bad Wolf

Books’ social media pages to know the latest news and updates. 

For more information regarding Big Bad Wolf’s current and upcoming

Book Sales, you can visit their website or check out their social

media accounts (Facebook | Instagram)  

Why Women Are Going For Laser Hair Removal for a Hassle-Free Beauty Routine

 

Traditional hair removal methods often feel like an endless cycle of upkeep, irritation, and frustration. Shaving, while quick, leads to frequent nicks, razor burn, and ingrown hairs. Waxing provides longer-lasting results but is painful, costly, and requires salon appointments. Depilatory creams can be unpredictable, with strong chemical smells and inconsistent effectiveness. As a result, more women are turning to laser hair removal as a long-term solution that offers convenience, cost savings, and smoother skin with minimal effort.

 

A Time-Saving Beauty Solution

Maintaining smooth, hair-free skin can take up a surprising amount of time. Shaving every day or every other day can add up to hours each month, while waxing requires setting aside time for appointments every few weeks. Laser hair removal dramatically reduces this time commitment by targeting hair follicles to slow regrowth, eventually leading to long-lasting results.

 With each session, hair grows back thinner and sparser until, in many cases, it no longer returns at all. This allows women to cut down on time spent in the shower shaving, or sitting through waxing sessions. Instead of constantly scheduling their lives around hair removal, they can enjoy smooth skin effortlessly.

Long-Term Cost Savings

The upfront cost of laser hair removal may seem high, but over time, it becomes a cost-effective alternative to traditional hair removal methods. Shaving requires a continuous investment in razors, shaving creams, and lotions, while waxing demands salon visits and professional services that add up quickly.

A person who shaves regularly can spend hundreds of dollars a year on razors and related products. Depending on the area being treated, Waxing appointments can easily cost thousands over the years. In contrast, laser hair removal provides long-lasting results, eliminating or significantly reducing the need for these recurring expenses. Many women find that after completing their treatment sessions, they no longer need to spend money on hair removal products or appointments, making laser hair removal a financially smart decision in the long run.

Gentle on the Skin

 Laser hair removal is a gentler option, unlike shaving and waxing, which often cause irritation, redness, and ingrown hairs. Targeting hair follicles without affecting the surrounding skin reduces the risk of discomfort. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive skin who struggle with irritation from traditional hair removal methods.

Smooth Skin Year-Round

Unwanted hair can be a hassle, particularly when wearing shorts, swimsuits, or sleeveless tops during warmer months. Laser hair removal helps maintain smooth skin throughout the year without the worry of stubble or regrowth. This added convenience gives women greater confidence and eliminates the need for frequent touch-ups.

Advanced Technology for Better Results

Recent advancements in laser technology have made treatments more precise, efficient, and accessible to a wider range of skin tones and hair types. Modern systems also incorporate cooling features to enhance comfort during the procedure. These innovations have increased the effectiveness of laser hair removal, making it a more appealing and reliable option for long-term results. 

Choosing the Right Provider

To get the best results, selecting a qualified and experienced provider is important. Professionals assess factors like skin type and hair texture to create a customized treatment plan. For those in Texas looking for expert care, refineplastics.com offers specialized laser hair removal services tailored to individual needs.

The Future of Hair Removal

Laser hair removal has revolutionized the way women approach hair removal, offering a practical, long-term alternative to traditional methods. With benefits such as time savings, reduced skin irritation, and cost efficiency, it’s no surprise that more women are making the switch.

Laser hair removal simplifies beauty routines and provides lasting smoothness with minimal upkeep by eliminating the need for daily shaving or painful waxing. For those looking for a convenient and hassle-free way to maintain silky skin, laser hair removal continues to be a game-changer in modern beauty care.

 

What to do when your dog or cat bites or scratches your child

 

Even if treated like a family member, pets which are prone to certain moods, may elicit scratches or bites.

If you own a dog or a cat, you’re most likely reaping the benefits of having a pet in your family. Fur babies have been credited for improving people’s mental health—they’re happier, more relaxed, and less lonely in the company of their kittycats and pooches.

The perks of having a pet extend to your children, too. Growing up with a dog or a cat at home develops your little one’s sense of compassion, patience, and unconditional love. Assign them the task of feeding the pet or cleaning up after it, and you teach them how to be responsible for a living thing at an early age.

And yet, even as you treat them as a member of your family, your beloved dog or cat is still an animal, prone to certain moods and behavior. Forcing pets to do something they don’t want to do or even patting them innocently on the head when they’re asleep, eating, or cranky may elicit scratches or bites—accidents parents shouldn’t take lightly, even when their pets are vaccinated.

“When your child is bitten or scratched by a pet, time is of the essence,” says Amado A. Flores III, MD of the Emergency Department of top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Wash the wound with soap and clean running water for 10-15 minutes, apply an antiseptic on the wound, cover it with a sterile bandage. Bring your child to the ER immediately if the wound is swollen, doesn’t stop bleeding, and is so severe, it shows bones, muscles, and tendons. Otherwise, make sure you’re at the hospital no more than eight hours after the bite. The longer you wait, the more you put your child at risk for infection and possible complications.”

At the hospital, be prepared to answer questions about the animal that scratched or bit your child. “Has the pet had its rabies shots, or is its vaccination status unknown? Was it behaving strangely?” enumerates Dr. Flores. “Ideally, you’ll have to quarantine the animal to observe it for 10 days. Whether the dog or cat becomes ill or not, we strongly recommend a series of anti-rabies shots on your child.”

Post-exposure shots consist of four rabies vaccine doses given on days 0, 3, 7, and 14 (plus a fifth dose on Day 28 if the patient is immunocompromised), and a single dose of human rabies immune globulin (HRIG). The HRIG is administered as soon as possible after exposure to provide immediate, passive immunity, while the vaccine stimulates the body to produce its own antibodies that protect against the rabies virus. For subsequent exposures, those who have been previously vaccinated do not need HRIG and would typically receive two booster doses of the rabies vaccine, one on Day 0 and one on Day 3.

A critical issue in the Philippines, rabies cases numbered 354 from January to September 2024, a 23- percent jump from the previous year, according to the Department of Health. “Rabies is a fatal disease. But it’s also very preventable,” shares Dr. Flores. “Keep your pets’ vaccinations up to date, and teach your kids to respect dogs and cats, and all kinds of animals. Don’t bother them when they’re eating or sleeping, don’t run away or toward an unfamiliar dog or cat, never reach for a dog or cat from a gate or fence, and keep your child away from an animal once it starts to show signs of aggression.”

A pet with complete shots doesn’t necessarily mean your child is in the clear. “Dog and cat bites and scratches can transmit bacteria to the wound,” warns Dr. Flores. “Capnocytophaga and Pasteurella multocida from dog bites can lead to fever, diarrhea, swollen joints, and blisters or pus on the wound. The same symptoms have also been observed in Pasteurella multocida, Staphylococcus aureus, and Campylobacteriosis—bacteria found in the saliva of cats. Treatment for such conditions include antibiotics or a tetanus shot.”

A child who grows up with pets will surely have countless memories (and pictures!) of bonding with a furry, four-legged family member. “When you spend time in close contact with dogs or cats, scratches and bites are both avoidable and inevitable,” says Dr. Flores. “Be steps ahead: Have your pets vaccinated regularly, remind your children to be gentle with a dog or cat, and act quickly in the event of a scratch or bite.”

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