Hindi lang ang buhay ng mga tao ang nagbago makaraang tumama ang COVID-19 na pandemya sa buong mundo noong nakaraang taon. Maraming namatay, nawalan ng negosyo at dahil walang negosyo, marami din ang nawalan ng trabaho. Marami din ang natigil sa pag-aaral at pagtuturo dahil nagsara ang mga paaralan.

Gayunpaman, nakasira man sa maraming aspeto ng buhay ang sakit na ito, mayroon din namang kung tawagin ni Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray na nagsilbing “silver lining” sa kabila ng mga masaklap na mga pangyayari. Napilitan mag-isip ang marami kung paano mabubuhay, ang mga negosyante nag-isip din dahil marami sa kanila sa negosyo din umaasa ng ikabubuhay ng kanilang pamilya.

Mabuti at marami ang nag “adapt” sa takbo ng sitwasyon, naging “innovative.” Dahil bawal lumabas, marami ang sumabak sa “e-commerce” kung saan ang negosyo ay lahat online. Marami man sa mga batikang negosyante at yung mga nagsisimula pa lamang ay natutong gawin ang negosyo online. Medyo mahirap sa umpisa ngunit noong lumaon ay nakasanayan din. At marami sa kanila naging matagumpay. Kaakibat ng “convenience” ng online business ay hindi pa din mawawala dapat ang sipag at tiyaga.

Iyong mga nawalan ng trabaho, sumabak naman sa online delivery. May mga online delivery platforms, partikular pagdating sa pagdeliver ng pagkain at iba pang bagay, ang nakapagbigay trabaho sa mga unemployed. Basta may motorsiklo o kahit bisikleta man, pwede na sa online delivery. Maraming nagtiyaga kahit mahirap kaya marami din ang nakinabang at kumita ng maayos para sa ikabubuhay ng pamilya.

Naapektuhan din ang sektor ng edukasyon dahil natigil ang “face-to-face” classes. Mabuti na lang din at nauso ang “online classes” para sa mga may internet at kung wala man, ginawan ng paraan ng Department of Education (DepEd) na matuloy ang pag-aaral sa pamamagitan ng “blended learning” o paggamit ng “modules” kung sakaling walang internet sa bahay. Maraming naging pagsubok, pero hindi nagpadaig ang mga Pilipino sa hamon, guro man or mag-aaral, kaya tuloy ang pag-aaral. At kamakailan ay nagsimula na din ang “limited face-to-face classes” sa kung tawagin ay “low-risk areas” o yaong kakaunti ang kaso ng Covid-19.




Madami pang mga naging pagbabago sa buhay ng tao bunsod ng pandemya. Mabuti din at napilitan ang mga Pilipino na maging malikhain. Dati-rati, ang pagsabak sa “online” gamit ang “digital technology” ay hindi gaanong pinapansin at lahat ay puro “manual” na pamamaraan pa din. Mabuti at namulat ang mata ng karamihan sa mga pakinabang gamit ang internet, ang pagnenegosyo o pag-aaral online. Dahil sa pandemya, napabilis ang “adoption” o ang pagyakap ng tao sa digital technology at kung paano nito mapapagaan ang buhay.

Subalit sabi nga ng isang superhero, “with great power comes great responsibility.” May kapangyarihan na ang tao gamit ang “digital technology” subalit may kaakibat itong mga responsibilidad. Dapat ang mga aktibidad online ay naaayon din sa batas. Sa pagbugso ng paggamit ng internet at digital technology, napapanahon na pagukulan ng pansin ang mas masidhing paggamit nito at may kaakibat na mga batas na magbibigay proteksiyon sa mga gumagamit nito para sa kabuhayan at iba pang aktibidad, at karampatang parusa din para naman sa mga aabuso nito.

Isa sa mga layunin ng “CLICK” o ang “Computer Literacy, Innovation, Connectivity and Knowledge” ay ang mabigyang-proteksiyon ang maraming sektor sa lipunan, yaong mga nagne-negosyo online, mga guro at mag-aaral para sa online classes, at pati na din ang mga konsyumer na bumibili online. Sa pamamagitan ng batas, maisusulong na ang abot-kayang internet para sa lahat kahit saan man lugar nakatira, lalo na sa may gustong pumasok sa “e-commerce,” makipag-“network” sa iba pang negosyante na may karanasan na dito, o yung may gustong mag-aral online at kahit sa mga empleyado na nais ipagpatuloy ang “work from home setup.”

Marami pang dapat pag-usapan tungkol sa mga gawain “online,” lalo na sa aspeto ng “online privacy” at
“data security.” Subalit sa pamamagitan ng mga panukalang batas, unti-unti ay maisasaayos lahat ng ito upang mas lalong mapabilis at maging “convenient” ang buhay, at magamit ng tao ang digital technology at gawin itong kapaki-pakinabang sa mamamayang Pilipino, ngayon at sa mga susunod pang mga henerasyon.

Para malaman ang iba pang detalye tungkol sa CLICK, sundan lamang sila sa kanilang social media pages.




Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Youtube: CLICK Partylist

LinkedIn: Partylist CLICK

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In the world of non-alcoholic carbonated beverages, root beer (yes, it is alcohol free) holds a special place in our hearts.

This bubbly, sweet bliss is reminiscent of our summer days, especially when it is served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning it into that nostalgic sweet treat – the root beer float.

The man who gifted us with this creation is the late Frank. J. Wisner, owner of Colorado's Cripple Creek Brewing. It is believed that Wisner came up with the idea while mountain gazing but missing the snow-covered peaks. He then thought of making his own icy mountain top with a mug of root beer as the mountain and scoops of vanilla ice cream as snow caps. He initially called this the “Black Cow Mountain.”

Every year in August, we celebrate this dessert masterpiece with the National Root Beer Float Day. In the U.S., this is often celebrated with festivals and competitions. In the Philippines, even amid a pandemic and quarantine restrictions, we can celebrate this day at home by making different versions of this foamy and fizzy drink.

The staple, of course, is root beer. One of the brands available in the local market is Mug Root Beer, a product of Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) —the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country.


Get creative

Other than the classic root beer and vanilla ice cream float recipe, the food website, www.sugarandsoul.co shared other creative ways to make it.


“The Chocoholic”

1. Prepare a syrup-rimmed glass rolled in sprinkles
2. Pour root beer
3. Add scoops of ice cream but swap vanilla for chocolate ice cream
4. Top with whipped cream and drizzle with chocolate syrup

“The Very Vanilla”

1. Highlight the vanilla flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the root beer
2. Finish it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—and now you’re in vanilla, milky heaven

“The Slushie”

1. Simply combine vanilla ice cream, root beer, and ice in a blender
2. Blend until it reaches smoothie texture
3. Top with whipped cream and cherries

These root beer float recipes will definitely be fun to create while we are on home quarantine.

“Everything about Mug root beer appeals to the senses: the rich foam, the unique aroma, and the feeling of ice-cold refreshment. It's the perfect drink for the whole family,” said Frederick D. Ong, PCPPI president and chief executive officer.

So now, we raise our mugs and toast to the bubbliest, fizziest, milky drink that is Root Beer Float!

Mug Root Beer is available in 300ml can, 1.5L PET and 2L PET in supermarkets, groceries and convenience stores. PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of well-known beverage brands in the Philippines: Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Milkis, and Aquafina.

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Los Angeles, CA —The Summer 2021 GUESS Originals collection is returning with its newest essentials line coined the GUESS Originals Kit Program. The program continues to be refreshed seasonally with essential core fits and colors featuring premium fabrics and timeless designs for both men and women. The GUESS Originals capsule and Kit Program includes the brand division’s most contemporary denim styles and is available beginning July 16, 2021, in select GUESS retail stores and guess.com.ph. 

GUESS Originals Collection 

The Summer GUESS Originals Collection for both men and women takes inspiration from the California surf scene and features surf inspired graphics from the archives. The relaxed California lifestyle inspires the pastel colors and softer washes in this delivery. The summer collection feature timeless silhouettes with a fashion-forward approach. 

The men’s collection offers an array of tees, tanks, sweat shorts, slim and straight leg denim in light, dark, and black washes. Jogger pants, hoodies and crew neck sweatshirts return in gray, black and white tones and provide a laid-back look to your style. All denim pieces from the GUESS Originals seasonal offering also feature the iconic triangle logo on the back pocket. 

The women’s capsule incorporates a selection of tanks and crop tops in pale banana yellow and jet black. Knit sets in the form of button ups, provide ultimate comfort to your wardrobe. A two-piece matching crop top and short set in daisy prints are the ultimate go-to summer styles that are both lightweight and fashion forward. The denim options are available in the form of cropped mom jeans, high rise, carpenter fit denim and the debut of a retro-inspired wide leg style. 

GUESS Originals Kit Program 

Each style featured in the GUESS Originals collection pairs back to the core styles offered in the Kit Program. Each silhouette included in the program emphasizes premium denim and heritage styles from the brand’s design archives. The Kit pants are an assortment of elevated light twill cargo pants, light chino khaki woven pants as well as light to dark stonewash denim. The Kit Program also includes chambray shirts and pocket tees for men. The women’s GO Kit Program offers a variety of ribbed tanks, bodysuits, mid-thigh shorts, as well as a light and dark stonewash denim jacket. 

Pricing for the GUESS Originals collection + GUESS Originals Kit Program ranges from P 1,698 to P 3, 898 for tops, bottoms, dresses, hats and denim.

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The sweltering summer days are over as the country’s weather bureau declared the start of the wet season. During this season, we need to keep our guards up because many illnesses emerge.

These include diarrhea, caused by viral or bacterial infection; waterborne illnesses like typhoid fever, cholera, and leptospirosis; and vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue.

To avoid contracting these diseases, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI)—the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country—reminds the public to keep hydrated, especially that we are in the middle of a global pandemic.

“It is important that we keep our immune system strong. One of the easiest ways to do this is to stay hydrated,” said PCPPI president and chief executive officer Frederick D. Ong.

To stay fit and protect yourself from diseases, here are some healthy habits you may do.

Eat healthy

What you consume today will have a huge impact on your health in the future. A good eating habit is one of the most basic practices to have a robust immune system.

Making a well-balanced meal is simple - just add more fruits and vegetables, choose whole grain food, switch to low or zero fat options, and cut back on sugar.

Exercise regularly

Exercising remains one of the most effective methods to strengthen your body during the rainy season. You do not have to buy expensive machines or pay for gym subscriptions. You only need at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. To safely exercise at home, you may check various workout videos online. If you opt to do outdoor walk or run, follow social distancing and other safety protocols.

As part of your workout routine, replenish what you lose in sweat with sports drinks like Gatorade. It contains electrolytes that rehydrate your body to avoid dehydration.

Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is as important as eating healthy and exercising. A study from the Carnegie Mellon University found that people with poor, short sleep have greater chance of getting sick.

Quality sleep helps uplift your immune system. To get quality sleep, reduce your blue light exposure at night, avoid caffeinated drinks before bedtime, and reduce day time naps, among others.

Hydrate

Proper hydration is vital in having a strong immune system. It detoxifies and flushes out waste materials from your body. It also helps transport nutrients to our organ systems.

Taking in safe water is a must to avoid infection from water-borne diseases. To have a clean drinking water, you need to boil water for at least three minutes or do water chlorination. Or you can drink purified bottled water, like Aquafina and Premiere.

If you’re moving all day and feel sluggish or tired, that’s because you lose more than just water when you sweat. You lose fluids and electrolytes. With this, it’s important for us to stay healthy and hydrated with an Electrolyte Drink like Gatorade Ion.

“Even during rainy season, we need to hydrate to arm our body from diseases and keep our immunity in top shape. Over the years, PCPPI has been helping Filipinos achieve that with our hydration drinks,” Ong said.

PCPPI is the exclusive manufacturer of well-known beverage brands in the Philippines: Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Milkis, and Aquafina.

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The freedom to fully express one's identity without fear of judgement is the fruit of years of fighting for equal rights and representation, and every June, we celebrate how far we've come with LGBTQIA+ Pride month.

It takes courage to embrace your truth and tell your story to the world. That's why it's important to put the spotlight on those who have already found the courage and confidence to flaunt their pride, so that they can inspire others to do the same — just like these strong women.

Mela Habijan Miss Trans Global 2020

Mela’s journey to womanhood began with her hair. After years of wearing synthetic wigs or putting a bath towel over her head, she finally let her hair grow long. “At first, I tried to joke about it, “Ma, pagbigyan mo na ako! Rocker na ako ngayon!” She shared on her Instagram post. As time went by, she realized that having straight, smooth, and jet black hair felt right. “I was meant to rock my hair with confidence.”

She found pride in her crowning glory and made sure to give it the proper care it needed. “… Everytime people complimented my hair, my honest, consistent, and confident reply has always been, “Alagang Pantene yan!”, Mela proudly shared in her Instagram post. “I have always flaunted my hair with pride because [it] reflects my journey to being the free and authentic Mela that I am today. As a proud trans woman with feminine expression, my hair has been my source of power. And that’s definitely Salontastic!”

Chezka Carandang, Pilot

“As a member and supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community, I, too have my own journey in raising my voice for my happiness and myself.” Chezka shared on her Instagram.

Chezka, like many others, was afraid of how her family and friends would react to her identity. So, she joined predominantly female activities like modelling and beauty pageants as she tried to figure out how she wanted to present herself. Later on she realized that she wanted to express herself physically as a woman, “…and that’s why I started growing my long straight hair with Pantene. Because Pantene has always been there in helping me feel stronger and Salontastic! Flaunt your #Pride with Pantene. I’m truly thankful for my community in helping me understand them and myself. Know that you are not alone and that we are heard.”


Allies also play a role in helping make the LGBTQIA+ community a safe space by fostering a culture of acceptance and respect, and advocating for equal rights and opportunities.

Gabbi Garcia, Actress

Gabbi, an ally, shows her full support for the LGBTQIA+ community in her Instagram post. “I’ve always been a proud supporter ever since I was young. I believe that everyone should be treated with love and respect. There is definitely no room for hate in this world! Everyone can be Salontastic regardless of gender!”

Let your hair take pride and flaunt it with Pantene Miracle Conditioners. With Pantene Keratin Straight Miracle Conditioner you can help reduce frizz for that sleek, straight look. While with Pantene Collagen Miracle Conditioner, you can turn dry, frizzy hair into shiny, Salontastic hair.*

Both conditioners are formulated with a blend of Pro-Vitamin B5, with special ingredients like Miracle Serum, real Collagen, and Keratin straighteners that moisturize hair and help strengthen hair against damage* to give you everyday #Salontastic results.

Take pride in your hair and get that #SalontasticTransformation with Pantene. Explore more from Pantene’s wide range of haircare products through the P&G Shopee Mall store.

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Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI)—the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country—aims to secure Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) from Société Générale de Surveillance (SGS), one of the world’s leading audit and certification companies.

PCPPI bagged FSSC for its Muntinlupa, Santo Tomas, Rosario, Davao and Bacolod plants. It is working towards certifying its other six plants in Cebu City, Naga City, Zamboanga City, Cagayan de Oro City, Iloilo City, and Tanauan within the year.

“It is imperative to strengthen our food safety practices and standards which we have always valued in PCCPI. We always aim to produce quality products that do not just comply with regulatory requirements but exceed customer expectations, as well,” said PCPPI President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Frederick Ong.

The company’s certification aligns with World Health Organization’s goals as it marks this month’s World Food Safety Day. This year’s theme is “Safe food now for a healthy tomorrow.”

The company follows stringent measures on food safety and quality. Its policy requires high food safety targets, regular process reviews, and strong food safety culture across all levels in the organization.

To further ensure quality production, PCPPI aligns with PepsiCo global practices. These include random trade sampling to verify food safety compliance and increasing food hygiene awareness among stakeholders.

Owing to its strict food safety practices, PCPPI’s Zamboanga plant was recently given the PepsiCo Caleb Bradham Award. The distinction is presented to Pepsi manufacturing plants which exhibit exemplary food safety and quality assurance practices.

“PCPPI believes that a strong food safety culture helps us promote food hygiene outside our operations. Our consumers will remain confident in our brands and in our ability to refresh them with clean and safe drinks,” Ong added.

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With the threat of the pandemic still very much present in the country, a simple cough is enough to cause heightened anxiety these days because it is one of the most common symptoms of COVID-19. Unlike before where this matter was usually taken lightly by most, the current situation has people rushing to find a solution when the first signs of a cough arise.

Coughs are our bodies’ natural response to expel unwanted organisms from our lungs caused by allergies, irritants, asthma, and the most common of all, viruses. Although coughs caused by common viruses go away in time, it's better to treat them as soon as possible and equip our bodies with added immunity for faster recovery.

In the Philippines, only one cough medicine combines the trusted formulation of Solmux with an essential mineral for faster recovery: Solmux Advance, the only one with Zinc! This unique and powerful combination of Carbocisteine and Zinc is proven effective to reduce cough bouts in as fast as 3 days, compared to the usual 10 to 14 days of recovery. The addition of Zinc to Carbocisteine not only liquifies sticky phlegm, but also improves the body’s immunity for faster recovery from cough.

Carbocisteine is scientifically proven to treat cough with phlegm and other respiratory tract disorders, and have properties that inhibit viruses and bacteria, making it more difficult for microorganisms to cause infections. The right levels of Zinc, on the other hand, can help speed up recovery from infections like the common cold through its action on immunity. It also activates white blood cells to help the body fight off viruses including coronaviruses.

Given the continued increase in COVID-19 cases every day plus the occurrence of other viral respiratory infections, Filipinos can protect themselves and their loved ones with a more advanced 2-in-1 solution for faster cough relief.

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Torn between preparing a nice meal for the family but not enough time to start from scratch? Don’t worry! You can now spend more time with the family and less time in the kitchen with new ready-to-heat Pork Katsu, Chicken Katsu, and Spicy Chicken Nuggets from Purefoods!

How does “tonkatsu meal for the family in just 8 minutes” sound like? Now, you can enjoy the crispness and juiciness of Pork and Chicken Katsu and experience Japanese cuisine right in the convenience of your home! Just pop frozen in the oven for 8 minutes or fry for 2-3 minutes.

Level up the katsu experience resto-style with these Eats-so-easy ideas!

One, serve katsu with some thinly shredded cabbage and sesame dressing, crushed toasted sesame seeds mixed with the free packet of katsu sauce. and a lemon slice to garnish.



Two, whip up an easy curry sauce with Japanese curry paste, coconut milk, diced potatoes and carrots and drizzle on katsu.

And third, go All American-inspired and serve katsu with BBQ seasoned French fries and ketchup or sour cream-bleu cheese sauce.

For more recipes, you can visit homefoodie.com and its social media platforms @HomeFoodiePH

Purefoods Pork Katsu, Chicken Katsu, and Spicy Chicken Nuggets are available in leading supermarkets nationwide.

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