Cebu Sports Science Seminar to be Held at USC

The country’s sought-after specialists in the field of sport science will share key information on how athletes and sports enthusiast can achieve maximum performance and be better than their competitors during the Sports Science Initiatives (SSI) Sports Science seminar series-Cebu leg on May 28 - 29, 2010 at the Theodore Buttenbruch Hall of University of San Carlos (USC) in Cebu City.

Organized by LAN Sports & Events Inc., and hosted by the USC Physical Education Department, the event aims to upgrade the knowledge and skill of Key Influencers such as Sports Coaches, Physical Education Teachers, Fitness Coaches, Physical Therapists, Nurses, Sports Science Students, Physical Education Students, Athletic Trainers, Conditioning Coaches, etc. through lecture-demonstrations.

Sports enthusiasts and athletes are always aiming to become stronger and better in their chosen sport. Proper training and conditioning are important to achieve this. Whether its basketball, volleyball, swimming, badminton, or contact sports, an athlete and their respective coaches and trainers need to understand what the body needs in order to achieve full potential.

Respected experts in sports science will share valuable information throughout the two-day event. Invited resource speakers include:

• Sanirose S. Orbeta, MS, RD, FADA - Sports Nutrition
• Dr. Jose Raul Canlas, Medical Director of the Moro Lorenzo Sports Complex - Sports Injury Management
• Pio Solon, CSCS, and Dean Hercules Callanta, College of Human Kinetics, UP– Diliman - Strength & Conditioning
• Dr. Julian Montano - Sports Psychology
• Josephine Joy B. Reyes, MPE - Career in Sports Science
• Niño Sinco – Fluid Guidelines for Performance.

The SSI Sports Science Seminar is sponsored by Phiten Philippines, TechnoGym, Gatorade, ASICS, Mueller Sports Medicine, and Hi Smart. This event is endorsed by the Philippine Association for Sports and Exercise Science (PHASES) and the Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI), and Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

Limited seats are available for 2010 Sports Science Initiatives Seminar Series - Metro Cebu. Registration Fee is PhP1, 000.00 inclusive of giveaways, handouts, lunch for both days, and Certificate of Participation. Deadline for registration is on May 24, 2010.

For more information about the event, contact Ms. Astrid Ocampo of the USC PE Dept at (0923) 280-7120 or Coach Pio Solon, CSCS at (0932) 641-9772 or email sps_initatives@yahoo.com.

The Parkinson’s Support Group of the Philippines Lay Forum

Parkinson’s disease is one of the most complicated and also one of the least understood disease in the Philippines, if not the whole world.

In a continuing effort to provide understanding and support for people who suffer the disease, the Parkinson’s Support Group of the Philippines (PSGP) held a lay forum last May 9, from 1pm–4pm, at the Cathedral Heights Building Complex, South Tower of St. Luke’s Medical Center.

The forum was sponsored by Darvys Pharma and was open to the public with free admission. Cardiologist Dr. Roberto Raymundo of the Philippine Heart Center presided over the forum, with discussions on how Parkinson’s disease affects the heart, blood pressure, and blood vessels. He also talked about ubiquinone, a powerful antioxidant, and its benefits in patients with Parkinson’s disease and cardiac disorders, as well as fostering general health, wellness, and youth.

Interest parties may contact the PSGP at 631-1531 or the Movement Disorders Center of St. Luke’s at 727-5552.

Subic Bay International Triathlon Draws 650 Participants

Considered as the biggest Subic Bay International Triathlon (SuBIT) since its conception in 1992, the 18th SuBIT boasted of a record 650-strong list of participants from over 23 countries. The Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) was forced to close down the registration even before the deadline with this unexpected yet welcome turnout of participants.

Slated last May 1 and 2 at the Subic Freeport Zone and presented in cooperation with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), this year’s edition of the SuBIT focused on young triathletes with the Asian Junior and U-23 (Under 23) Championships.

The U-23 category saw action in the 1.5 K swim, 40 K bike, and 10 K run, while the junior triathletes raced through 750 m swim, 20 K bike, and 5 K run course.

Said TRAP President Tom Carrasco, Jr.: “For this year, we decided to put more premium on the development of young triathletes who will take the place of current stars.”

Teams from Japan, Hungary, China, Kazakhstan, Korea, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, United Kingdom, Macau, Singapore, Iceland, France, Malaysia, Chinese Taipei, Indonesia, Poland, Israel, Syria, Belgium, and Norway all sent their contingents to battle the bets of the Filipino hosts.

The race began at the Dungaree Beach and ended at the Waterfront, with the female elite and U-23, female age groupers, junior sprint, adult sprint, mini sprint, and female interclub relay competing on the first day. The elite/U-23 male and age groupers and inter-club team championships were held on the second day.

Event sponsors include Speedo, David’s Salon, Globe Telecom, Sunkist, Vitwater, Asian Center for Insulation Philippines, Camaya Coast, Gatorade, Fitness First, and Rudy Project.

For more information, contact the Triathlon Association of the Philippines at (632) 710-8259, 974-2104 to 06, (63915) 643-0822, fax (632)809-2713 or 850-5254, or e-mail fabiedavid@yahoo.com.

LBHS Staged Flower and ‘Garden Wedding’ Show

As a way to recognize the popularity of garden weddings and receptions in the Philippines, the Los Baños Horticulture Society (LBHS), formerly Los Baños Orchid Society, held its summer show last April 23 to May 2, 2010 at the Senior’s Social Garden in University of Los Banos, Laguna.

With this year’s theme “Garden Wedding”, the event was filled with creative displays of numerous flora that are ideal for garden wedding setups. Invited speakers also talked about how to use plants and garden accessories — seeds, seedlings, flowering plants, garden bells, and lamps — as wedding giveaways.

VS Orchids, Vic’s Orchids & Ornamentals, Valesol, Flower Box, Gintong Talulut, Exotica, Varunee Garden, Robelle Garden, Malvarosa, Earth Keepers, DAP, Tony Pajaro, Mabuhay Orchids and Genesis participated in the landscape exhibit and showcased their arrangements in the center hall.

Among the special guest include Mr. Vic Chin who gave a talk on “Wedding Cake Decoration Using Fresh Flowers”, Dr. Monina Siar, noted specialist on Hoya, Mussaenda and other ornamental plants; and Mr. Danny Tiu, author of Grammatophyllum of the Philippines, which was recently published by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD). The book was on sale during the garden show.

Like previous garden shows organized by the LBHS, seedlings, fruit crops, exotic fruit trees, foliage plants, flowering plants, and orchids were available and sold to guests and participants throughout the event.

For more information about the event, contact the Los Baños Horticulture Society at (63920) 577-6552 or visit their website at http://losbanosorchidsociety.org/

Local Skimmers Head out to CamNorte for First Ultimate Regional Skim and Skate Challenge

Witness top regional skimmers battle it out for skim supremacy with ingenious moves guaranteed to be served fresh, hot and deliciously spicy during the 1st Ultimate Uragon Regional Skim and Skate Challenge and Luzon Skim Jam slated on April 3 – 4, 2010 at Bagasbas Beach in Daet, Camarines Norte.

The event is when Bicolano and Luzon skimmers and skaters will gather to compete in one of the first ever regional skim and skate challenge held in one of Camarines Norte’s Skim havens. An almost two kilometer expanse of flat, fine grey sand conveniently located 10 minutes away from the bustling town of Daet awaits skim aficionados from all skill levels.

The skate event will be held in the Bagasbas Pavilion and an 8km, Mercedes-to-Bagasbas Push race will kick off after that. There will be different classes and division for amateur and expert skimmers and a longboarding competition during the event.

The 1st Ultimate Uragon Regional Skim and Skate Challenge and Luzon Skim Jam is supported by San Miguel Corporation, Provincial Government of Camarines Norte, Slick Surf Skimboards Pilipinas, Junior Chamber International (JCI) – Philippines, and Department of Tourism.

Registration fee is P300.00 inclusive of event shirt and 2 lunch stubs. For more information, contact Slick Surf Skimboards Pilipinas at (63908) 881-5075 or visit their website, http://slicksurf.multiply.com/.

PSEM holds its 3rd Congress on Prediabetes and the Metabolic Syndrome

The Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (PSEM) held its 3rd Congress on Prediabetes and the Metabolic Syndrome at EDSA Shangri-La Hotel, Mandaluyong City last March 17, 2010.

The theme of the congress was “Prediabetes and Insulin Resistance in Special Populations”. This gave some lectures on pre-prediabetes followed by a discussion on diseases linked to insulin resistance like CVD and cancer.

Elaboration on the difference in insulin resistance between the lean and obese and discussion on metabolic syndrome among the teens and on tackling the intervention and treatment during the transition period were also included in the congress.

Some speakers who attended the congress were Dr. Jovie Joy R. Manuel, Dr. Gregory Joseph Ryan Ardena, Dr. Karla Kristine Silverio-Fernando who discussed the topics Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Filipino Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Melitus, Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Diabetics in a Rural Community Based Self Management Education Program, and Metabolic Syndrome among First Degree Relatives of Type 2 Diabetes Patients respectively.

The congress started through the event’s opening ceremonies including the singing of PSEM Hymn and the opening remarks of the PSEM President and also the congress’ Over-all Chairman Patricia B. Gatbonton, MD.

For more information, do contact the PSEM Secretariat at the telephone number (02) 633-6420, fax number at (02) 637-3162, e-mail at sec@endo-society.org.ph, or visit their website at www.endo-society.org.ph

Renowned Medical Experts to Grace First International Autism Conference

Medical experts from here and abroad will share their knowledge and expertise to empower parents and care groups on how to deal with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during the First International Autism Conference to be held on February 3-5, 2010 at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

The International Autism Conference will gather 16 medical experts all over the world who will present the most current research, knowledge, information, diagnosis, assessment, treatments and policies surrounding ASD in support of people under the spectrum and their families.

Thirteen of the 16 doctors presenting in the conference are leading experts from the Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders Institute of the University of California Davis (MIND Institute)/, an international, multidisciplinary research organization based in Sacramento, California, USA.

Included in the agenda of the three-day conference are infrequently, if not, never-before discussed topics such as the Genetics of Autism, the Neurobiology of Autism, the Epidemiology of Autism, Social and Neurocognitive Development in Autism, as well as Identification and Pursuance of Scientific Research to address the needs of Autism in the Philippines where about half-a-million Filipinos are diagnosed to be afflicted by the disease.

More topics will be discussed by doctors from MIND Institute including Medical Interventions for Autism of All Ages, Play and Imagination in Children with Autism: Guiding Social Experiences with Peers, Training on the Use of Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), and Diagnosis and Evidence-based Treatment of Adolescents with Autism, among other topics.

Three experts from Autism Speaks USA will also join the 13 experts from MIND Institute in the conference to discuss the Identification and Pursuance of Scientific Research to Address the Needs of Autism in the Philippines.

According to Autism Hearts Philippines Executive Director Christine Roa, “Concerned individuals including health practitioners and teachers from all over the world will definitely find their participation greatly beneficial as the conference will help them understand the many facets of the disorder to be able to better assist their family, friends and acquaintances suffering from the developmental disorder.”

The conference will also mark the start of the New York-based autism advocacy group Autism Speaks’ Global Autism Public Health Initiative in the Philippines (GAPH), which is dedicated to service delivery and research collaboration on Autism.

“The conference will mark the beginning of united efforts to create change in the lives of people with Autism. We enjoin all Filipinos especially families living with autism to support our advocacy by registering their participation in the International Autism Conference,” said Roa.

The First International Autism Conference is supported by Autism Hearts Foundation, MIND Institute, Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Education.

For more information and online registration, contact the International Autism Conference Secretariat at (632) 819-3724, 818-9926, email info@iacphil.com, or visit their website at www.iacphil.com

Preventive Cardiology Highlighted at FLEHD 10th National Annual Convention

Cardiologist from all over the Philippines met up at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium RCBC Plaza, in Ayala Avenue , Makati City last January 28 – 30, 2010 to know the latest developments and studies about atherosclerosis and promote preventive cardiology during the 10th National Annual Convention on Preventive Cardiology of the Foundation For Lay Education on Heart Diseases (FLEHD)

The convention served as the annual gathering of cardiologist to keep abreast with newer knowledge, latest technology, and new approaches to cardiovascular problems, controversies, among others.

Topics discussed during the event include emerging and major risk factors for atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease benchmarks, coronary artery disease management spectrum, international procedure in the management of coronary artery diseases, advancing the advocacy for preventive cardiology, pharmacological tools commonly used in Ischemic Heart Disease, acute myocardial infraction among special groups, basics of primary hypertension, treatment of hypertension, and drug therapy of hypertension in the adult population.

Dr. Adolfo Bellosillo, FLEHD President, gave the State of the Foundation Address. Mr. Jose Concepcion together with Dr. Ophelia Manlapit presented various award to its members. A special tribute to Mr. Concepcion, in the form of an opera, served as one of the major highlights of the convention. The opera, entitled “How to Remain Young at Heart” was written and directed by Dr. Bellosillo with Mr. Jeremiah Calisang handling the music and Mr. Ronillo Jaynario in charge of the choreography. The opera featured Ms. Jai Sabas Aracama, Mr. Ervin Lumauag, and the Philippine Ballet Theater.

For more information about the event, contact the FLEHD Secretariat at (632) 893-3724, 817-7393, email nobello@info.com.ph, or visit their website at http://www.flehd.org.ph/

The Fifth Philippine Congress and Exhibition on Natural Health

Health is wealth as they say. Proof of this adage is the sudden boom of the popularity of health and wellness programs, diets and food products, beverages, and food supplements. However, most people and professionals all say that when it comes to being healthy, going natural is the definite approach.

Powered by this insight, the International Association of Educators for World Peace, a United Nations, non-governmental organization, organized the Fifth Philippine Congress and Exhibition on Natural Health with the theme “ There can be no peace unless there is healing.”

Held last Dec. 4–6 at the Philippine Trade Training Center, the congress featured a health tiangge which showcased vegetarian food, herbal medicines, organic herbs, and other natural products. Various exhibitors were also present to provide free health diagnoses to attendees, as well as acupuncture, live blood analysis, iris analysis, blood typing, and blood pressure check-ups.

Lectures on peace and healing, organic ways, probiotics, blood purification, ten laws of health, financial wellness, diets for cancer patients, chelation therapy, and environmental protection were also conducted for the last two days of the event.

For more information, please call telephone numbers 245-7600 or 371-7016. You may also send an email to worldpeacemanila@yahoo.com.

PNS Holds 14th Annual Convention

To promote awareness and emphasize the importance of issues and the approaches to kidney and urinary tract problems, the Pediatric Nephrology Society of the Philippines (PNS) held its 14th Annual Convention last Nov. 22–24, 2009 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

With the theme “Understanding the Spectrum of Kidney Disease: Case-Based an Interactive Pediatric Nephrology,” the two-part convention organized by the PNS had interactive and case-based discussions to discuss several topics regarding renal health, diseases, and ways to detect and prevent these diseases.

The event started off with a half-day pre-convention sessions for PNS members on Nov. 22. Doctors Erik Aragon, Dolores Bonzon, and Juan Miguel Ortiz discussed the current opinions in pediatric dialysis, the management of anemia, and arterial blood gas interpretation, respectively, in the half-day sessions scheduled in the afternoon. A fellowship for the members followed in the evening.

Doctors Marivic Conchita V. Bustos and Vivina Chiu started off the first set of discussions on Nov. 23, and talked about the detection and management of urinary tract diseases and tropical infections affecting the kidney.

Dr. Pedro Jose, a pediatric nephrologist from Georgetown University; guest pediatric urologist Dr. Craig Peters of Harvard University; and Dr. Ramon F. Abarquez, Jr., academician from the National Academy of Science and Technology were also among the speakers for the first day, with topics ranging from salt intake, hydronephrosis, and hypertension. A luncheon symposium was also included in the program, conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Montemayor.

Keynote speaker Dr. Rey Melchor of the Philippine Medical Association also graced the event for the opening ceremonies of the convention.

The second day of the event saw to forums and panel discussions. Workshops about selected fluid and electrolyte problems were also held in the afternoon, with four specific topics discussed in details by doctors Monina Cabral, Gemma Aguila, Leila Quidilla, Jimmylito Solomon, Aileen Limjoco, Lynette Alcala, Esther Tan, and Nathan Bumanlag.

Other speakers in the two-day session included doctors Francisco E. Anacleto Jr., Ma. Rosario F. Cabansag, Dennis Flores, Karen Besina-Quin, Reden Silva, Concessa P. Baccamante, pediatric urologist David T. Bolong, and National Kidney and Transplant Institute nutritionist Soccoro T. Valderamos.

For more information about the convention, please contact the secretariat of the Pediatric Nephrology Society of the Philippines at telephone number (02) 697-1178 or telefax number (02) 687-1198. You may also visit their official website at http://www.psn.ph.

PNS Holds 14th Annual Convention

To promote awareness and emphasize the importance of issues and the approaches to kidney and urinary tract problems, the Pediatric Nephrology Society of the Philippines (PNS) held its 14th Annual Convention last Nov. 22–24, 2009 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

With the theme “Understanding the Spectrum of Kidney Disease: Case-Based an Interactive Pediatric Nephrology,” the two-part convention organized by the PNS had interactive and case-based discussions to discuss several topics regarding renal health, diseases, and ways to detect and prevent these diseases.

The event started off with a half-day pre-convention sessions for PNS members on Nov. 22. Doctors Erik Aragon, Dolores Bonzon, and Juan Miguel Ortiz discussed the current opinions in pediatric dialysis, the management of anemia, and arterial blood gas interpretation, respectively, in the half-day sessions scheduled in the afternoon. A fellowship for the members followed in the evening.

Doctors Marivic Conchita V. Bustos and Vivina Chiu started off the first set of discussions on Nov. 23, and talked about the detection and management of urinary tract diseases and tropical infections affecting the kidney.

Dr. Pedro Jose, a pediatric nephrologist from Georgetown University; guest pediatric urologist Dr. Craig Peters of Harvard University; and Dr. Ramon F. Abarquez, Jr., academician from the National Academy of Science and Technology were also among the speakers for the first day, with topics ranging from salt intake, hydronephrosis, and hypertension. A luncheon symposium was also included in the program, conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Montemayor.

Keynote speaker Dr. Rey Melchor of the Philippine Medical Association also graced the event for the opening ceremonies of the convention.

The second day of the event saw to forums and panel discussions. Workshops about selected fluid and electrolyte problems were also held in the afternoon, with four specific topics discussed in details by doctors Monina Cabral, Gemma Aguila, Leila Quidilla, Jimmylito Solomon, Aileen Limjoco, Lynette Alcala, Esther Tan, and Nathan Bumanlag.

Other speakers in the two-day session included doctors Francisco E. Anacleto Jr., Ma. Rosario F. Cabansag, Dennis Flores, Karen Besina-Quin, Reden Silva, Concessa P. Baccamante, pediatric urologist David T. Bolong, and National Kidney and Transplant Institute nutritionist Soccoro T. Valderamos.

For more information about the convention, please contact the secretariat of the Pediatric Nephrology Society of the Philippines at telephone number (02) 697-1178 or telefax number (02) 687-1198. You may also visit their official website at http://www.psn.ph.

CHIPI featured Natural Solutions for a World of Wellness

The Chamber of Herbal Industries of the Philippines Inc. (CHIPI) showcased the 3rd Marpe’ Health Expo ‘09: Natural Solutions for a World of Wellness at the Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall, last October 23 to 25, 2009.

The event is the herbal industry’s humble contribution to helping the Philippines push forward amidst the global crisis. It is a once a year opportunity for the local consumers to have access to world class natural and wellness products and services that offers special discounts and promotions while learning about developments in the industry. On the other hand, exhibitors had an opportunity to present new offerings to its loyal consumers intended to help them through these difficult times and expose their products and services to new markets.

For more information, contact Mr. Jonathan Roxas or Ms. Mika Cecilia-Templo of MCT Events Management, the marketing arm of the 3rd Marpe’ Health Expo ’09, through (632) 747-0529, 799-0230, 701-1759 to 60 or e-mail mct_events@yahoo.com.

Davao Fair Highlighted Malunggay’s Benefit

The Region 11’s office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)featured the many health benefits of“malunggay” during the First Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability Fair in Davao held last October 15 to 18, 2009 at the Gaisano Mall, Davao City.

DTI Director for Region 11 Teodulo Pasawa said that “malunggay” is packed with seven times more vitamin C than orange, four times more vitamin A and Beta-carotene which is good for the eyes and an effective cancer fighting anti oxidant than carrot, four times more calcium than milk, three times more potassium than bananas, two times more protein than yoghurt, and two times more iron than spinach.

He also indicated that we need to unleash the potentials of malunggay, and to find the necessary interventions in order to achieve its full potential. Here in the Philippines, a decoction of the roots is often used to revive delirious patients and to clean sores and ulcers the juice from the said part mixed with milk is also effective for treating hiccups, asthma, gout, lumbago, and rheumatism . The bark is also applied on snake bites to prevent the poison from spreading

According to Mr. Cesar Ladesma, Chair of the Consumer Action for Sustainable and Healthy Lifestyle (Cash-L) Network Inc., malunggay helps ensure the health of families and saves them allot of money due to the fact that it is easy to grow and pesticide-free. CASH-L is DTIs partner institution for the fair. 

The fair also promoted naturally grown food and locally made products, minimal use of energy from fossil fuel, and products that are bio-degradable.

DTI, moreover, promotes living a simple yet environment-friendly lifestyle that does not necessarily deprives people of the many joys of living.

Local and International Medical Experts Graces National Autism Conference

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) will hold its 11^th National Autism Conference and the 1^st Southeast Asian Conference on Autism on October 24 -25, 2009 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City.

Carrying the theme, Autism Without Borders (Where Hope Prevails), the conference will feature various programs, theories and applications from different parts of the world that may vary in approach geared towards creating collaborations and widening understanding about the constituents of the global autism community.

Commission on Human Rights chairman Leile de Lima will give the keynote address for the conference. Speakers for the conference include Dr. Valerie Paradiz, developer of Integrated Self Advocacy (ISA)®; Mr. Toshihiro Ogimura, Boston Higashi School Training Director on Daily Life Therapy®; Mr. Hiroshi Kawamura, President of the DAISY Consortium; Prof. Apollo Abelardo David, founder and president of the R.E.A.C.H. (Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Adults and Children with Handicap) Foundation, Inc.; and Ms. Hope Leyson, MSc.E., Education Director of The Laren School;

There will also be a post-conference workshop on October 26 – 27, 2009 to be held at the Skydome in SM North EDSA, Quezon City.

Register now at www.autismbeyondborders.com to avail of special conference packages. For more information about the event, contact the Autism Beyond Borders Secretariat at (632) 926-6941, email, secretariat@autismbeyondborders.com, or visit their website at www.autismsocietyph.org

United in Health in the National Nutrition Council Convention

The National Nutrition Council (NNC) held its joint national convention of nutrition action officers and district/city nutrition program coordinators last Oct. 5 and 6 at the SMX Convention Center.

Focusing on its theme “One Nutrition, One Nation,” the conference was held together with the celebration of NNC’s 35th anniversary, and sought to cement the bonds of nutrition workers and achieve the goals of the One Nutrition Movement. The NNC Convention also aimed to address the issues and concerted efforts for the alleviation of malnutrition and hunger in the Philippines.

About 2,000 delegates attended the event, which was also organized toward the accomplishment of one of the goals of the United Nation Millennium Development Goal, which is to reduce hunger by half in 2015.

Discussions about hunger mitigation efforts and actions for the improvement of nutrition as stated in the Updated Medium-Term Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition were also conducted in the two-day confab.

Three New Shows Co-locate at 50th Manila F.A.M.E. International

On its 50th edition, Asia’s Best Design Destination, the Manila Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturers Exchange International (Manila F.A.M.E.) will be held October 15-18, 2009 in two venues— SMX Convention Center and World Trade Center— offering three new shows that put the spotlight on Filipino creativity with its design and quality-driven products that meet global standards.

Ever growing and ever expanding, the bi-annual trade show for home and lifestyle products has always been at the forefront of innovation. Attuned to the international market trends as well as consumer demands, the show continues to evolve in order to meet these demands and open doors to more local manufacturers further strengthening the Philippines’ position as a source of high-quality products and services.

“This Golden Edition of Manila F.A.M.E. International is extra special. It opens in two venues to accommodate [our growing number of] exhibitors and to answer the clamor of our buyers asking for more of the unique and new products from the Philippines,” said Ms. Thelma Dumpit-Murillo, Over-all Project Director of Manila F.A.M.E. and Deputy Executive Director of the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry. Aside from holding the 50th Manila F.A.M.E. in two separate venues, three new shows have been created within the said event.

Fashion revolution at FashioNation
Philippine fashion has grown by leaps and bounds over the last decade with young designers armed with fresh ideas and diverse design aesthetic leading the revolution.

Manila F.A.M.E., in its bid to invigorate and fortify the fashion industry, is launching a new show. Dubbed FashioNation, the show will house manufacturers of garments, textile, footwear, and fashion complements such as accessories and bags all export products with exceptional design and craftsmanship.

Also among the highlights of FashioNation include the daily fashion shows that will feature, among others, designer collections and eco-chic apparel. See new collections of established as well as up-and-coming local fashion designers that have wowed international design communities worldwide in the show’s Designer Lane.

Students of fashion schools and colleges will have a chance to show off their talents as well in a design competition with a theme, “The Green Scene: Eco-Pinoy Fashion.” The contest requires a modern yet timeless interpretation of the Philippines— it’s culture, heritage, and people— using recycled, natural, and indigenous materials.

Art and Soul at ART:MNL
ART:MNL is the first-ever venue to internationally showcase the artworks of Filipino contemporary artists. Leading art galleries as well as renowned and emerging artists come together to make available masterful pieces to interested local and foreign buyers.

Aside from this stimulating visual display, the show will also hold seminars and workshops that aim to expand participants’ knowledge on the arts, cultivate an eye for beauty, gather information on art conservation, and serve as a venue to meet the masters. Chosen artists will also get the chance to participate in a close door nude sketching session; their masterpieces put up for sale afterwards.

ART:MNL is a preview to the Philippine International Art Fair 2010. The show is done in collaboration with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Committee on Visual Arts of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Metropolitan Museum of the Philippines, National Museum, Intellectual Property Office, Bonafide Art Galleries Association, Contemporary Art Philippines, and Art Association of the Philippines.

Go Natural at the Philippine Health and Wellness Show
Wellness has been among almost everyone’s priority list, and Manila F.A.M.E. answers this demand for the body’s well being with the Philippine Health and Wellness Show which offers natural, herbal, and organic personal care products. Lemon grass essences and massage oils, VCO-based soaps and balms, and soy-based aromatherapy candles are only some of the all-natural, eco-lifestyle products offered in the show. Also featured are spa services, alternative healing modalities, centers for specialized healthcare, and retirement destinations.

For more information on Manila F.A.M.E. International, visit www.manilafame.com, or contact Manila F.A.M.E. Secretariat at (632) 833-1258, 831-1265 or email manilafame@citem.com.ph.

CHAP Promotes Health Awareness in its 51st Annual Convention

The Council of Health Agencies in the Philippines held its 51st Annual Convention at the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) Auditorium last Sept. 30, fueled by its theme “Health Awareness through Our Senses.”

Among the highlights of the program included the awarding of the 2009 CHAP Outstanding Awards, one of which was the Most Outstanding National Health Provider Category, conferred to the Philippine Medical Association.

The event’s keynote speaker was Dr. Jose Asa Sabili, president of the PMA for 2006–2008.

Dr. Nenita Lee Tan, president of CHAP, planned the whole-day conference with different discussions by practitioners with an expertise in specific areas of the senses.

Among the speakers were Dr. Romeo C. dela Cruz, M.D, “Maliwanag ba? Nililinaw ko lang;” Dr. Albert J. de Leon, M.D., “Ang Luga (Otitis Media)… Bow;” Ms. Leah Samaco Paquiz, ED.D., “How the Sense of Touch could Improve Health;” Ms. Felicidad V. Velandria, “Is Food Taste Important in Health?” and Dr. Mercedes O. Osunero, M.D., “The Role of Physicians and Pharmacists in Managing Senses.”

RP Obesity Issues Addressed at PASOO Annual Confab

The alarming issues, trends, and challenges in dealing with obesity and overweight management were addressed during the 15th Annual Convention of the Philippine Association for the Study of Overweight and Obesity (PASOO) last September 5, 2009 at the Grand Ballroom of Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila in Quezon City.

The event carried the theme, “From Theory to Public Policy: Addressing Challenges and Trends in Obesity Now (ACTION). Like the previous conventions, the event aims to encourage research in the field of prevention and management of overweight and obesity and provide a forum for the exchange of scientific information in this field.

Dr. Cherian Varghese, Regional Adviser for Non Communicable Diseases of the World Health Organization – Western Pacific Region Office (WHO-WPRO) gave the cordial message during the event. Afterwards, Dr. Gabriel Jasul, PASOO Scientific Committee Chair delivered the opening remarks.

The one-day affair was filled with numerous plenary sessions and symposiums designed to address numerous issues involving obesity and overweight. Topics include cognitive behavioral modification, intervention, community-based programs, pharmacotherapy, use of sibutramine for weight management or cardiovascular patients, and weight management during teenage years, pregnancy, and old age. The event was concluded with a presentation of Diet Review 2009 and Obesity Research 2009.

For more information about the event, contact Ms. Chacha Carmelio, PASOO Secretariat at (632) 632-1533, 634-5978, email sec@obesity.org.ph or visit their website at http://www.obesity.org.ph.

Stroke Experts Shared New Techniques, Findings at 10th SSP Annual Convention

Medical practitioners who specialize in stroke treatment and prevention shared their latest finding and treatment techniques during the 10th Stroke Society of the Philippines Annual Convention held last August 20 – 22, 2009 at the Holiday Inn Resort in Clarkfield, Pampanga.

Organized by the Pampanga Chapter of the Stroke Society of the Philippines (SSP) in cooperation with the Department of Health, the event carried the theme, “The Philippine Stroke Agenda: Tackling Knowledge, Issues, Concern, and Awareness in Stroke. It aims to serve as a forum for all members to disseminate information concerning the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of cerebrovascular diseases (CVD) and related diseases.

Prior to the formal event, held last August 20; the SSP conducted a postgraduate course seminar for barangay health midwives (BHM), midwives assigned in rural health units (RHU), and nurses. For BHM and RHU midwives, the seminar was held at the Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital. Topics discussed include pathophysiology and types of stroke, pre-hospital stroke evaluation and triage, stroke risk factors and prevention, and blood pressure taking.

Meanwhile the Nursing Postgraduate Course was held at the Angeles University Foundation Auditorium. Topics discussed were blood pressure, glycemic control and thermoregulation for stroke patients, basic admitting orders, stroke clinical pathways, National Institute of Health Stroke and Glasgow Coma Scale, and monitoring for thrombolytic theraphy in acute ischemic stroke.

During the formal event, held last August 21, Pampanga Governor Ed Panlilio welcomed the delegates from all over the country. Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Chairman Dr. Rey Aquino gave the keynote address to the participants. Topics discussed during the event include stroke awareness, thrombolytic therapy, stroke physiotherapy, CT and MRI analysis, endovascular treatment, connection between stroke and epilepsy, connection between substance abuse and stroke, psychosocial distress in stroke survivors and caregivers, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s Disease, among others.

The convention concluded with a Fellowship Night held at Hilltop Restaurant.

For more information about the event, contact the Stroke Society of the Philippines at (632) 723-0101 loc. 5304, 722-5877, email ssp_secretariat@yahoo.com or visit their website at http://www.strokesocietyphil.org/

Philippine Horticultural Society Staged Horticulture 2009

Horticulturist and plant enthusiasts took part in the 33rd Annual Horticultural Show (Horticulture 2009) held last July 16 – 25, 2009 at the Commonwealth Avenue part of the Quezon City Memorial Cirle in Quezon City.

Organized by the Philippine Horticultural Society in cooperation with Quezon City Government and Parks Development, the event carried the theme, “A Walk in the Park”, which aims to educate people on the uses of plants in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The theme was also chosen to reiterate the need to have public nature parks within a congested city.

Quezon City Mayor Feliciano 'Sonny' Belmonte and National Committee on Disability Affairs (NCDA) Chairperson Rosie Lovely Romulo graced the opening ceremony. During the event, numerous seminar were conducted that tackled various topics such as bonsai culture, probiotics, monopodial orchids, growing ferns, aquatic gardening, gamma irradiation, tray and garden landscaping, flower arrangement, among others. The Memorial Circle also served as an exhibit area where plant groups and individuals showcased their ornamental plants.

For more information about Horticulture 2009, contact the Philippine Horticultural Society at (632) 426-7581