Get a handle on your love handles

 

Age, genetics, body composition, and hormonal changes can all contribute to having love handles.

What’s there to love about love handles? Nothing, say those cursed with excess fat spilling out from their waistband. Not only do they look absolutely unflattering in a crop top, two-piece swimsuit, or form-fitting dress, but having your Significant Other playfully pinch at your sagging sides during a sweet moment is downright embarrassing.

Why does fat settle there in the first place? Juancho Alfredo D. Las, MD from top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) attributes love handles (aka “muffin top” and “spare tire”) to a number of factors.

“Fat develops when you accumulate more calories than you burn or use as energy,” explains Dr. Las. “The more fat cells you have, the more visible they are on your body. Age, genetics, body composition, and hormonal changes determine where fat settles, but the most common areas are the upper back, arms, stomach, buttocks, thighs, and abdomen.”

While excess fat is considered unhealthy, belly fat is particularly concerning because of its implications to your health. 

“When we talk about abdominal fat, there’s subcutaneous fat, or the fat directly under the skin that you can pinch, then there’s visceral fat, or fat that surrounds the heart, liver, and kidneys,” says Dr. Las. “A certain amount of visceral fat is normal, but too much increases your risk for developing heart disease, stroke, type II diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers.” 

Before you get into plank position or start doing crunches, here’s what fitness experts have to say about it: Spot-exercising doesn’t work. In reality, the body burns fat evenly all over, not just in specific areas. 

Instead, adopt these time-tested, doctor-approved recommendations that not only reduce love handles, but prove beneficial to your overall health and wellbeing. 

Favor whole foods. If you live off a diet of ultra-processed foods, you’re not just setting yourself up for that dreaded spare tire on your waist; you’ll likely develop high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol from food that’s notoriously loaded with sodium, fat, and empty calories. Dr. Las recommends sticking to natural, minimally processed foods like protein-rich chicken and fish; high-fiber leafy green veggies, fruits, oatmeal, and beans; and avocado and nuts for their good fats. For whole grains, pick red or brown rice, but if you prefer white, skip that extra serving! Wash them all down with water, still the healthiest beverage there is.

Move more. Even if you sit before a computer all day, you can still squeeze in ways to be active. “Use the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator. Walk short distances instead of commute. Take walking breaks after sitting for 30-60 minutes at your desk. Enlist the company of a colleague to walk, run, play a sport, or sign up at the gym with you after work so you can motivate each other to stay the course,” suggests Dr. Las. Yes, cardio workouts burn fat, but don’t discount strength-training too. Exercising with weights or resistance bands has been known to burn calories long after your workout is over. 

Tweak your lifestyle. Managing stress reduces the body’s production of cortisol, the hormone that stores fat in the tummy and triggers cravings for sweet and salty food. Sleeping for the recommended 7-8 hours a night also controls cortisol’s release and doesn’t disrupt the appetite hormones leptin (which makes you feel full) and ghrelin (aka the hungry hormone). Nicotine likewise messes with these hormones, so quit smoking immediately.  

“Alcohol—especially if you consume a lot in one sitting—contains a lot of calories,” says Dr. Las. “When you take in a lot of alcohol, your liver prioritizes processing it instead of burning fat and carbohydrates. This leads to fat settling in the midsection.” 

Quips Dr. Las, “Now you know why it’s called beer belly.” 

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.

Choosing the Right Transport Option for Motorcycles

 

Transporting a motorcycle isn’t just about getting wheels from point A to point B. Whether you’re relocating across the country, selling your bike, or preparing for a long-distance trip, choosing the right transport option can save time, money, and stress. With a wide range of services available, understanding your priorities and needs helps you make the best choice for safe delivery and peace of mind.

Understand Your Shipping Needs

The first step in selecting the right transport option is understanding what you need from the service. Ask yourself questions like:

• Is speed the most important factor?
• Are you transporting a high-value or vintage motorcycle?
• Do you need door-to-door service?
• What is your budget?

Your answers to these questions will guide you toward the most appropriate transport method. Everyone’s situation is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but knowing your priorities makes comparing services easier.

Open vs. Enclosed Transport

When it comes to choosing how your motorcycle will travel, you’ll typically encounter two main types of carriers: open and enclosed.

Open transport is the most common and affordable option. It’s similar to how cars are transported on large trailers you see on highways. While open carriers expose your bike to the elements, they are continually used, widely available, and often the most cost-effective choice for regular motorcycles.

Enclosed transport, on the other hand, offers protection from the weather, debris, and road hazards. This option is ideal for classic, custom, or luxury bikes that require extra care. While it’s more expensive than open transport, the added security can be worth the investment, especially for high-value motorcycles.

Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal Service Another important consideration is where your motorcycle will be picked up and dropped off.

Door-to-door delivery means the transport provider will pick up your bike at your specified location and deliver it directly to your destination. This is the most convenient option and eliminates the need for you to travel to a shipping terminal.

Terminal-to-terminal service requires you to drop off and pick up your bike at designated facilities. While this type may be cheaper, it adds extra effort on your part, especially if the terminals are far from your home.

Take time to decide which option aligns with your schedule and physical ability. For many riders, the convenience of door-to-door service outweighs the lower cost of terminal-to-terminal.

Research Specialized Services

Some transport services specialize in motorcycle shipping and have experience handling bikes of all types and sizes. These companies understand the nuances of securing motorcycles safely, dealing with fuel restrictions, and coordinating logistics. If your bike has unique features or modifications, a specialized service may be your best bet.

One example of a tailored option is Tennessee motorcycle transportation, which connects you with carriers that are experienced in motorcycle transport and offers a straightforward process to obtain quotes and choose a provider that matches your needs.

Get Multiple Quotes

Once you’ve identified the type of transport and service level you want, it’s time to compare quotes. Don’t just go with the first price you receive; getting multiple estimates gives you leverage and insight into what a fair market rate looks like. Keep in mind that extremely low bids might indicate less experienced carriers or hidden fees. Balance cost with reputation and service quality.

Prepare Your Motorcycle for Transit

After booking your transport, make sure your bike is ready for the move. Clean it so you can easily inspect for scratches or damage, check fluid levels, and take photos for documentation. Remove loose accessories and lock the handlebars if possible. These simple steps can help prevent issues during transport and give you a record of your bike’s condition.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right transport option for your motorcycle involves balancing cost, convenience, and protection. By taking time to understand your needs, comparing services, and preparing your bike for travel, you can ensure a smooth and worry-free shipping experience. Whether you’re crossing state lines or planning a big adventure, the right transport choice makes all the difference.

Commuters now have a reliable way to pay for trains with GCash.

 

Days move fast. For daily commuters, they are a constant juggle—beating the rush, staying on schedule, and making sure you get from home to work as quickly as possible.

Which is why nothing spikes commuter stress like realizing you’re low on balance—right when you’re already in line, already late, and already surrounded by equally rushed strangers.

Suddenly, it’s a scramble: searching for a top-up station, queuing behind others, or dealing with reloading machines that seem to break only during peak hours or even the ticket booths where card top-up lines merge with single-journey ticket purchases. In the middle of rush hour, these small hiccups turn into full-blown setbacks, proving that top-up problems don’t just delay your commute—they derail your entire day.

One Less Thing to Worry About—Thanks to GCash

Somewhere between the morning rush and the daily routine, you discover GCash—and finally, no more second-guessing your balance while the line grows longer behind you, checking your balance in a stored value card reader, or lining up again to reload at the ticket booth or machine.

With GCash, your phone or GCash Visa Card is your train ticket!

And even on days when you do need to cash in, it’s easy–You can CASH IN FOR FREE at GCash cash in machines, available across all MRT-3 stations, or transfer funds online from your bank accounts. Topping up can fit seamlessly into your commute instead of disrupting it. With FREE WI-FI AT THE MRT also available, you can complete transactions on the spot—no data, no detours, just a smoother commute from start to finish.

With GCash, you can ride the MRT-3 in hassle-free ways:

Tap to Pay using your phone

Using an NFC-enabled Android phone? Great news! Your device is now your ticket for a

seamless entry and exit pass.

To get started, GCash Tap to Pay is a quick, one-time activation:

1. Simply tap Settings on your mobile phone.

2. Turn on the NFC feature.

3. Login to your GCash app.

4. Select Tap to Pay and agree to the Terms & Conditions.

Once activated, paying for your MRT-3 ride is just one tap away. Just login to your GCash app,

then tap your phone on the turnstile upon entry to proceed to the platform. Upon exit, don’t

forget to tap your phone again at turnstile to automatically deduct the exact fare.

Scan your GCash Commute QR

No NFC-enabled Android phone for tapping? No worries! You can still enjoy the convenience of cashless commuting by generating a Commute QR code on your GCash app, serving as your digital ticket without the need to input any station details.

Here's how easy it is:

1. At the start of the trip, tap Commute on the GCash app.

2. Click Generate QR. You may download the QR or take a screenshot.

3. Scan your Commute QR at the turnstile, then proceed to the train platform.

Upon exit, just scan the same QR code again, and the exact fare will be automatically deducted from your account.

Spotty signal, running out of battery, or simply love using a card? You can still breeze through

your MRT-3 commute using your GCash Visa Card. Just like the current card ticketing system,

you can simply tap your card upon entry and again upon exit. The GCash Visa Card is linked to

your GCash wallet – use it directly to pay not just for MRT rides but also shopping in millions of

online and offline stores and withdraw from your GCash account in any ATM for as low as P10.

See the details of your GCash Visa Card payments on your app’s Transaction History.

To use this convenient payment method, order your GCash Visa Card on the app, and after it is

delivered to you, make sure to link it to your GCash account:

1. Tap 'Cards' in the GCash app to order or link your GCash Visa Card.

2. To order – Select ‘Order a Card,’ then input your delivery address and pay P250. It will

be delivered to you in 7-10 days.

3. To link – Select 'Order Card' 'Link my Card,' then input the One-Time Pin (OTP) and submit.

4. Enter the last 4 digits of your card and your virtual account number found on the back,

then submit.

In a world where every minute is accounted for, convenience isn’t a luxury—it’s self-care.

Saving precious minutes by skipping the line at the ticket booth or machine, eliminating a bit of stress there, and keeping your headspace intact can make all the difference in how the day

feels. Simple tools, like GCash, take the friction out of everyday routines, proving that small wins add up.

With its growing daily usage, GCash has become a trusted and established payment option at

MRT-3—making it a seamless part of the everyday commute. Whether you tap, scan, or use

your card, you are not just skipping one extra line and saving yourself time, but also

experiencing a global, innovative way to pay with GCash!

Karla Estrada Joins W Express: A Milestone 55th Anniversary and a New Face of Trust

Kargo Kween Karla Estrada during the W Express Presscon with her as the new brand ambassador

 In the fast-paced world of logistics, trust is the ultimate currency. This February, W Express, a pioneer in the Philippine courier industry, celebrated a monumental milestone—55 years of service. To mark this "emerald" anniversary, the company held a star-studded launch at the Makati Diamond Residences, officially introducing television host and entrepreneur Karla Estrada as its new brand ambassador. The event was hosted by versatile host, Kaladkaren. 

Event's host: Kaladkaren

The partnership is a perfect match: Karla Estrada, known for her warmth and reliability, represents the "Queen Mother" level of care that W Express has provided to Filipinos since 1971.

A Legacy of 55 Years: From DHL Roots to W Express

A blooming Karla Estrada faced the press during the said launch

Founded by the late Rodolfo Feliciano, the company originally introduced the DHL brand to the Philippines. Today, as Wide Wide World Express (W Express), it remains a household name. Under the leadership of Chairman and President Dawn Feliciano, the brand has evolved from a simple courier service into a comprehensive logistics powerhouse with over 100 branches nationwide.

Karla Estrada during the contract signing with W Express executive and W Express President Ms. Dawn Feliciano

"W Express has focused on delivering reliable service that customers can depend on. Karla embodies the warmth and authenticity that resonate with our customers," said Dawn Feliciano during the event.

More Than Just a Courier: Discover W Express Services

Whether you are an individual sending a gift or a business managing an entire supply chain, W Express offers a suite of services designed to take the stress out of shipping.

1. Door-to-Door Express Delivery

From documents to large parcels, W Express provides seamless domestic and international delivery. Their "Easy-Pak" and "Easy-Doc" solutions ensure that your items reach their destination safely, whether it's across the street or across the globe.

2. Comprehensive Logistics & Warehousing

For entrepreneurs and corporations, W Express is a strategic partner. Their logistics services include:

• Pick and Pack: Professional handling and packaging of orders.

• Nationwide Distribution: Reaching even the most remote areas of the Philippines.

• Warehousing: Secure storage and inventory management to keep your business moving.

3. Air and Sea Cargo Forwarding

Need to move heavy loads? Their cargo forwarding services offer flexible transport options via air or sea, ensuring that bulk shipments are handled with the same precision as a small envelope.

4. Hassle-Free Authentication Services

One of the standout features of W Express is their specialized document handling. They offer one-stop-shop authentication for:

• CHED (Commission on Higher Education)

• DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs / Apostille)

• PRC (Professional Regulation Commission)

• Schools and Universities

This service is a lifesaver for OFWs and students, eliminating the need for "legwork" and long queues at government offices.

5. Exclusive Korean Visa Application Center (KVAC) Assistance

Planning a trip to Seoul? W Express is the exclusive courier partner of the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC). You can submit your Korean Tourist Visa (C-3-9) application at any W Express branch. Karla Estrada herself shared during the launch that she used this service personally, praising it for being "smooth, secure, and stress-free."

With 55 years of expertise and a nationwide network you can trust, W Express continues to bridge the gap between people and their goals.

Ready to send your first package or process your visa? Visit the nearest W Express branch today or check out their official website to track your shipments in real-time!

For more info, call (+632) 88798888 or visit www.wexpress.com.ph

5 Ways eye care is a love language

 

Valentine’s Day is often painted in reds and pinks—flowers, chocolates, handwritten notes, and carefully planned dates. But beyond the grand gestures, love today is found in the everyday choices we make for ourselves and the people we care about.

This Valentine’s Day, EO Executive Optical, the No. 1 optical in the Philippines with the most number of stores nationwide, invites you to see love a little more clearly—starting with your eyes. Because love isn’t blind, it’s intentional, proactive, and rooted in care.

1. It’s choosing to show up at your best—for your date and beyond

 Whether it’s a candlelit dinner, a movie night, or a simple coffee date, nothing disrupts a romantic moment quite like squinting at the menu or struggling with tired, strained eyes. Eye care is a form of self-love that ensures you show up confident, comfortable, and fully present.

EO Executive Optical experts explain that untreated vision issues often lead to headaches and fatigue—things that can quietly take the spark out of even the most thoughtfully planned Valentine’s date. Taking care of your eyes means taking care of how you experience the world around you.

2. It prevents stress from stealing the romance

Love thrives when stress is kept in check. But vision problems don’t always announce themselves; they show up subtly, through eye strain, blurred vision, or constant tiredness. Over time, these small discomforts can affect your mood, patience, and energy.

A simple eye exam is proactive love. It helps prevent small issues from turning into big distractions, allowing you to focus on connection instead of discomfort. This Valentine’s Day, prevention is romance.

3. It helps you notice the little things that make love special

Love lives in the details—a shared smile across the table, a knowing look, the way someone’s eyes light up mid-conversation. Clear vision allows you to catch these fleeting moments, the ones that deepen connection and make memories last.

For EO Executive Opticall, healthy eyesight enhances attentiveness and emotional presence. When nothing is left unseen, love feels more intimate, more intentional, and more real.

4. It’s caring not just for yourself, but for the person you love

From driving safely on date night to navigating crowded places hand in hand, your eyesight plays a vital role in protecting the people you care about. Eye care isn’t just personal, it’s relational.

Taking care of your eyes is a quiet way of saying, “I want to keep you safe.” And on Valentine’s Day, that kind of love speaks volumes.

5. It’s investing in a future you can see better, together

Valentine’s Day celebrates the present, but real love plans for tomorrow. Regular eye care helps prevent long-term vision problems and unexpected medical costs—allowing you and your partner to focus on building memories, not managing surprises.

EO Executive Optical emphasizes that preventive eye care is an investment in clarity, comfort, and peace of mind. It’s love that looks ahead and chooses well-being for the long run.

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Love looks better when you see it clearly

This Valentine’s Day, love doesn’t have to be extravagant. Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking care of yourself so you can fully take care of others. And with EO Executive Optical, love is best seen when nothing is left unseen.

Visit your nearest EO Executive Optical branch for a check-up. And for more eye care tips, updates, and promos, follow EO Executive Optical on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.