Erceflora Strengthens Its Commitment to Gut Health Education This Batang Matatag Day 2026

 

Persistent gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools continue to put Filipino children at risk of preventable infections. In the Philippines, diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of illness and hospitalization nationwide, with studies linking around 80% of diarrhea-related deaths to poor access to safe water and sanitation. This recent health concern shows how unsafe water and poor hygiene continue to expose children to avoidable infections.

Enter Batang Matatag, Erceflora’s flagship advocacy, tackling child mortality from diarrhea by flipping the script—from treatment to prevention. The initiative champions gut health awareness, hygiene education, and improved sanitation, reaching over 200,000 children across different regions in the Philippines since its launch in 2022.

“Batang Matatag reflects our commitment to protecting children not just through treatment, but through prevention—empowering communities with the knowledge, habits, and support to build strong foundations for lifelong health and resilience. Real change begins with the small things families do every day, it starts at home, in schools, and in everyday choices,” said Rica Mateo, Erceflora ASEA Zone Brand Lead.

The Batang Matatag initiative by Erceflora has built WASH facilities and donated refrigerated drinking fountains to over 104 schools across BARMM, Luzon, and Rizal, helping drive measurable health gains and improving everyday environments where children learn and grow. 20% decline in diarrhea cases in partner Rizal schools and a 50% reduction in BARMM schools have been observed during School Year 2024–2025.

Looking ahead, Erceflora aims to reach 150,000 students and healthcare providers in 2026 as the program expands across Rizal and Metro Manila, strengthening its mission to build more resilient children through better gut health and hygiene practices.

“Being Batang Matatag starts with taking care of one’s body, but this mission goes far beyond any single product or organization. We call on parents, educators, and partners to work with us—because building stronger, healthier children is a shared responsibility we cannot achieve alone,” Opella Healthcare Philippines Country Head, Emma Valette emphasized.

Batang Matatag Day 2026: Growing the Mission, Strengthening More Young Lives

Five years in, Batang Matatag isn’t slowing down—it’s scaling up. Batang Matatag Day 2026 marks a renewed push to expand the program’s reach, highlighted by a visit from Opella Healthcare’s executive leaders—CEO Julie Van-Ongevalle, Chief Growth Officer Alberto Hernandez, and Chief Strategy and Corporate Affairs Officer Matthieu Brucker—and partnerships with seven new schools, including Maharlika Integrated School in Taguig.

There, 200 Grade 2 and 3 learners joined interactive activities—including the Batang Matatag Bus sessions on proper handwashing—to promote healthy habits early and strengthen well-being at its foundation. "For the past five years, in partnership with Manila Water Foundation, schools, and communities across BARMM and Luzon, we’ve been helping children look after their health—especially their gut health, which supports 70% of immunity. We want more kids across the Philippines to know this and be truly Batang Matatag. We’re committed to reaching even more this year," Carol-Ann Stewart, Opella Healthcare AMEA President, noted.

For partner schools, the impact is already tangible—and points to what sustained investment can achieve. “Batang Matatag’s services and contributions came at a crucial time, enabling us to provide improved drinking and washing facilities that will have a lasting impact on our school community. We are honored to be among the program’s beneficiaries. More than the resources, your commitment has brought joy to our learners and strengthened an environment where they can thrive, grow, and build healthier habits for the future,” said Dr. Romeo O. Olalo, Principal of Maharlika Integrated School.

Mang Inasal celebrates women creators championing Filipino food online

 

MICC Women

As digital platforms continue to shape how stories are shared, Filipino audiences are becoming increasingly selective about the voices they follow and engage with online. 

 

Insights from Meltwater’s Digital 2026 report show that the Philippines remains one of the most socially connected countries globally, with users spending between 30 minutes to more than an hour daily on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. In this crowded digital landscape, audiences are drawn less to viral moments and more to creators whose stories feel authentic, values-driven, and relatable.

This Women’s Month, Mang Inasal celebrates Filipina creators who embody these qualities—women redefining the content creation space while proudly sharing Filipino food culture with audiences across the country. 

 

Among them are creators Khem Gomez, Chef Beng Velarde, and Heidie Mamauag, whose journeys reflect resilience, authenticity, and a deep love for Filipino cuisine.

“Mang Inasal has always been about celebrating what makes us proudly Filipino,” said Mang Inasal president Mike V. Castro. “This Women’s Month, we are proud to highlight Filipina creators who are using their platforms to inspire communities while showcasing the richness of Filipino food culture.”

Taking the first step

For many creators, the most difficult part of the journey is simply getting started. Gomez recalls how hesitation once held her back from pursuing content creation.

“I’ve always wanted to create content since I was young,” she said. “But actually, starting can feel daunting. Still, it’s scarier to look back at the ‘could-have-beens.’”

Today, Gomez shares creative food-related content, including miniature cooking videos that bring Filipino dishes to life in playful and imaginative ways. For her, Filipino cuisine represents something deeper than content—it reflects identity and pride.

“Filipino food will always be home,” she said. “The ingredients, the cooking methods, and the stories behind every dish make you proud to share it with the world.”

Meanwhile, Velarde began her content creation journey during the pandemic while managing professional commitments and other responsibilities. Balancing these priorities requires careful planning.

“Creating content wasn’t my only focus,” she said. “But those early challenges helped me become more organized and intentional.”

By planning posts ahead and creating content in batches during weekends, she found a rhythm that allowed her to balance productivity with personal time. “Balance isn’t perfect—it’s intentional,” she added.

Staying authentic in a fast-moving digital world 

Mang Inasal celebrates women creators championing Filipino food online

The digital content landscape moves quickly, with creators constantly navigating trends, algorithms, and audience expectations. For Gomez, authenticity has been essential to staying grounded.

“Social media can sometimes make you more calculated than authentic,” she said. “But when you understand yourself and enjoy what you’re creating, the pressure becomes easier to manage.”

Velarde takes a similar approach, choosing to stay aligned with her values rather than chasing every trend.

“Algorithms change constantly,” she said. “But I focus on creating content that reflects my brand and purpose instead of trying to keep up with everything.”

For Mamauag, whose content centers on simple living and home cooking, purpose matters more than popularity.

“Don’t let likes or views define you,” she said. “Just keep sharing your stories—you never know who might need to hear them.” Messages from followers who find inspiration in her posts continue to motivate her to keep creating.

Celebrating Filipino food and culture online

For these creators, food is not just content but also storytelling.

Velarde sees Filipino cuisine as a powerful way to connect people with culture and heritage. “Every dish carries family memories and regional traditions,” she said. “When we share Filipino food, we’re also sharing stories of who we are.”

Mamauag’s love for cooking was shaped by her childhood in the province, where many meals were prepared using ingredients from their backyard. “Growing up, our food was simple,” she shared. “But those meals were special because they were made with love.”

Today, she encourages families to appreciate everyday meals and the meaningful moments shared around the table.

A shared love for Mang Inasal

For these creators, Mang Inasal represents the same spirit of Filipino warmth and togetherness they share through their content. 

 

Gomez describes dining at Mang Inasal as a uniquely Filipino experience. “It truly represents what being Pinoy is,” she said. “From the food to the atmosphere, it makes you proud of your culture.”

Velarde agrees, noting how the brand’s signature dishes evoke comfort and nostalgia, “Their Chicken Inasal reminds people of home and family,” she said.

For Mamauag, Mang Inasal also symbolizes moments of togetherness with loved ones. “When Mang Inasal is our meal, my kids already know what that means,” she shared with a smile. “We eat with our hands, enjoy the food, and spend time talking together.”

As more women find their voices in the digital space, their stories continue to reshape how Filipino culture is shared online. This Women’s Month, Mang Inasal celebrates these Filipina creators who inspire communities while proudly sharing the flavors and stories of Filipino food with the world.

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

Are you being love bombed?

 

MakatiMed reminds us that being in a good relationship should feel light and secure.

If you’ve ever been catfished, breadcrumbed, benched, and pocketed in your quest to find The One, meeting a potential partner who likes to lavish you with gifts and praises, send sweet texts or calls “just because,” and boldly declare you a soulmate to the world even if you’ve just known each other for weeks sounds like a keeper, right?

Not so fast, warns Carmina Charmaine G. Bernardo, MD of top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). While they might be doing all the right moves to make you feel attractive, needed, and special, that too-good-to-be-true Prince or Princess Charming could actually be exhibiting signs of love bombing, a manipulative form of dating to gain the upper hand in a relationship.

“Love bombing involves showering a potential love interest with presents, romantic gestures, flattering words, and undivided attention—acts guaranteed to sweep you off your feet in the heady days of courtship,” says Dr. Bernardo. “The goal of the love bomber isn’t love per se, but to have control over you so that you develop an emotional attachment towards them.”

Whether they’re aware of it or not, a love bomber acts out of narcissism, stemming likely from past traumas. But it’s just a façade to what they’re really feeling. “As arrogant or entitled as they appear, love bombers are very insecure,” explains Dr. Bernardo. “They have a fear of being undesired.”

As such, people who have no regard for anybody’s feelings but their own will eventually behave in the most unloving ways. They may suddenly withdraw their affection so you blame yourself, or make you feel guilty when your “me time” doesn’t include them. Love bombers are also into gaslighting, twisting conversations in such a way that you question your sanity. The worst ones will resort to physical abuse, then beg for forgiveness and promise to change, only to repeat the cycle.

Is it love—or love bombing? How to tell a love bomber from someone who loves sincerely? Be observant. “Everybody goes all out at the ‘getting to know you’ stage of dating,” says Dr. Bernardo. “But I’d like to believe that you’ll eventually figure out the frogs from the princes. Listen to your gut. Being in a good relationship feels light yet secure, happy, trusting, and respectful.”

Whether you’re dating a potential love bomber or the real Mr. or Miss Right, it’s important not to lose yourself in any relationship. “That way, it will be easy to leave a toxic, abusive partner. Before you love someone else, you have to love yourself first and more,” points out Dr. Bernardo.

Spend time apart. In a fresh romance, couples act as if they’re joined at the hip. “As in love as you are, remember: You had a life before this relationship,” says Dr. Bernardo. “Don’t neglect your family and friends. Be present in lunches and dinners at home, catch up with the gang on weekends, and please, don’t hog conversations with stories about your new boyfriend or girlfriend. I’m sure everybody’s happy for you, but if that’s all you’re going to talk about, you’ll slowly turn people off.”

Pursue your passions. “Points to you for keeping an open mind and trying to make your partner’s hobbies your own. But maintain personal interests too,” advises Dr. Bernardo. “In a mall, for instance, agree to hang out in your respective domains: He at the sports shops and you in a bookstore. Then meet up for coffee and talk about what you did and discovered.”

Speak up. There’s a tendency to agree with everything your new partner says. Perhaps you think it’s smart or cute, or you’re afraid to offend them. A loving partner will allow you to express yourself freely. “If you need time alone, if you want to eat elsewhere, if you think things are going too fast, then stand your ground and speak up in a respectful manner,” says Dr. Bernardo. “Your thoughts and feelings are valid too, and if your partner values you, they’ll listen and hopefully yield.”

Have a life. “People like to credit their Significant Other for completing them, when in truth, it’s you who completes you,” underlines Dr. Bernardo. “When you accept and are at peace with yourself, thrive in a fulfilling career, enjoy the support of family and friends, and have personal goals to look forward to, a loving partner is icing on the cake.”

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.

A Ruby Milestone: Museum Foundation of the Philippines Launches "ANG MUSEO"--the first ever Museum Awards in the Philippines

Against the nostalgic backdrop of the Milkyway Café on Arnaiz Road, the Museum Foundation of the Philippines Inc. (MFPI) officially ushered in a new era for Philippine heritage yesterday, March 12, 2026. The foundation marked its 40th anniversary—its Ruby year—with the high-profile launch of Ang Museo, the country’s first-ever recognition program dedicated to the excellence of cultural preservation and promotion. 

The awards serve as more than just a ceremony; they are a direct response to the evolving landscape of Philippine heritage. By honoring the stewards of our national memory, MFPI aims to bridge the gap between the public and the institutions that safeguard our history.

The Museum Foundation of the Philippines Inc. President Danny C. Jacinto

Museum Foundation of the Philippines executive director Tanya Pico said the youth's renewed interest in Filipino culture and the opening of more regional museums, including the expansion of the National Museum. She noted however, that there is still no dedicated recognition for museums and workers, as well as an accreditation system for museums that mandates quality.

Empowering Regional and Independent Voices

Driven by an urgent need to support regional and independent museums, Ang Museo places a special spotlight on those outside the capital. While Metro Manila often dominates the cultural conversation, this Gawad (award) encourages participation from local, university-run, and private museums that have remained operational from the pre-pandemic era (2019) to the present.

"Ang Museo symbolizes our role in connecting people with cultural heritage," the Foundation shared during the launch. "It reinforces the capacity of museums to protect national memory and fosters a deeper appreciation for the arts."

ANG MUSEO AWARDS

The inaugural awards are divided into 10 categories, honoring both the institutions themselves and the dedicated individuals behind the scenes.

Institutional Awards

• Gawad sa Pamanang Tanghal: Permanent Exhibition of the Year

• Gawad sa Napapanahong Tanghal: Temporary Exhibition of the Year

• Gawad para sa Institusyong Pang-Edukasyon: Educational Institute Museum of the Year

• Gawad para sa Natatanging Pamana ng Bayan: Local Museum of the Year (City/Municipality)

• Gawad sa Sangay ng Pambansang Museo: NMP Satellite Museum of the Year

Individual Awards

• Gawad sa Natatanging Paglilingkod ng Indibidwal: Individual Achievement Award

• Gawad sa Tagapagtaguyod ng Sining at Kultura: Patron of the Arts/Special Recognition

• Gawad sa Natatanging Pamumuno ng Museo: Museum Leadership Award

• Gawad sa Natatanging Kawani ng Museo: Museum Worker of the Year

To ensure the highest standards of integrity, entries will undergo a rigorous two-tier governance structure. A jury of independent experts in conservation, education, and heritage will evaluate nominees based on a precise scorecard:

• 40% Design & Innovation

• 35% Attainment of Project Objectives

• 15% Accuracy & Truthfulness

• 10% Effective Use of Budget

The call for nominations officially opens on March 15, 2026, with a final submission deadline of May 15, 2026. All entries must be processed through the official Ang Museo Recognition Portal with a standard entry fee of Php 3,000.

The Monreal Stones, one of the earliest known artifacts with ancient Filipino lettering, served as the model for the 𝐀𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐨 trophy. The shape, which was carved from a raw stone slab, resembles an archaeological fragment—something that has been found, conserved, and transmitted across time.

The trophy, which has its roots in history, symbolizes the Museum Foundation's dedication to protecting culture and maintaining our past. Baybayin reclaims a voice that our ancestors once engraved into stone. A fragment of history, preserved in the present.

The journey will culminate in October 2026 with a grand awarding ceremony held at the iconic Tree of Life in the National Museum of Natural History, Manila.

Nominations for 𝐀𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐨 are now open! For complete guidelines and downloadable forms, visit www.angmuseo.ph

For details, visit museumfoundationph.org or contact inquiry@museumfoundationph.org or call +63 917 707 7353.

The Museum Foundation of The Philippines'  Board of Trustees

The Museum Foundation of the Philippines, Inc. Board of Trustees

Leading the Vision

The Museum Foundation of the Philippines continues its mission under the leadership of President Danny C. Jacinto and Vice President Gemma Cruz Araneta, supported by Executive Director Tanya Pico and a distinguished Board of Trustees, including Atty. Dominador D. Buhain, Herbert D. Tuason, and other prominent figures in the Philippine art and legal sectors.

Retailers urged to rethink experience, adapt to AI-driven consumer trends

 

As consumer behavior shifts toward experience-driven spending and artificial intelligence reshapes how people discover and purchase products, retailers are being urged to rethink not only what they sell, but how they sell. From the rise of “treatonomics” and values-led shopping among Generation Z to the growing influence of generative AI platforms on buying decisions, businesses face increasing pressure to differentiate and modernize their operations.

As shoppers increasingly seek meaningful experiences and turn to AI tools for recommendations, retailers are being pushed to redefine how they attract and engage customers. With “treatonomics,” values-led Gen Z spending, and AI-driven product discovery on the rise, the modern shift in consumer behavior signals a new competitive landscape for brick‑and‑mortar businesses.

Ms. Amrei Dizon

In a free business seminar hosted by Araneta City for its lessees on February 20 at Gateway Mall 2, seasoned entrepreneur Amrei Dizon underscored how undifferentiated retail concepts risk fading in an evolving marketplace. Dizon, who specializes in content marketing and creative strategy, emphasized that customers now place greater value on experiences rather than mere transactions. She said retailers must articulate a clear and unique value proposition to stand out.

“If you have a unique value, you are differentiated,” Dizon said, adding that businesses offering little distinction beyond price are most vulnerable to decline. She explained that elevating the retail experience requires intentional design across operations and customer touchpoints. Frontline staff must be trained not only in product knowledge but also in communicating the brand’s values within brief customer interactions. Physical store elements — from lighting and layout to fixtures and flooring — should reinforce the brand story and guide customers seamlessly through their journey.

Retail 2026

Beyond store design, Dizon highlighted emerging shifts in purchasing behavior, including “treatonomics,” a trend in which consumers indulge in small luxuries for emotional uplift. Retailers can respond by incorporating accessible, feel-good items into their offerings. At the same time, she urged businesses to closely monitor Generation Z consumers, whose preference for authenticity and social responsibility is reshaping marketing strategies and product development.

Another major shift is the growing use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT for shopping and dining recommendations. This development is changing how businesses are discovered online, requiring them to optimize not only for traditional search engines but also for AI-driven platforms.

“One thing that’s clear to me is you are now optimizing for AI, not people. How are you going to show up in search engines or AI engines?” Dizon said.

Beyond visibility, AI can streamline internal processes such as inventory management. By analyzing purchasing patterns and alerting store owners when best-selling items run low, automation helps reduce missed sales opportunities and improve stock efficiency.

“Opportunity losses are massive when you run out of stock. Every empty shelf slot is a missed sale. Automation closes the gap,” she said.

Held with the support of the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the session gathered business tenants across properties in Araneta City to examine emerging consumer trends and the practical applications of artificial intelligence in retail. It is part of Araneta City’s series of quarterly free learning sessions for its business tenants, aimed at equipping them with insights and practical tools to navigate an evolving and increasingly digital retail landscape.