Author: Press Release

Come On Barbie, Let’s Go Party! Atlantic Records Unviels Barbie The Album
Atlantic Records has officially unveiled BARBIE THE ALBUM, the groundbreaking musical companion to the highly anticipated summer event film Barbie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Barbie and Ken and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. The star-studded soundtrack is now available globally at all retailers and streaming services, featuring the recently announced track, “Man I Am,” from multi-platinum, GRAMMY®, BRIT, Golden Globe and Academy Award-winning artist, Sam Smith. The epic synth pop track was produced by the soundtrack’s executive producer, Mark Ronson alongside Ricky Reed and is written from the perspective of Ken. Further album highlights include Barbie star Ryan Gosling’s extraordinary, scene-stealing original song, “I’m Just Ken,” performed as his character, plus massive unreleased tracks from an unprecedented lineup of global superstars including Lizzo, Tame Impala, The Kid Laroi, HAIM, Khalid, Dominic Fike, Ava Max and GAYLE. See below for full tracklisting and watch the official soundtrack trailer HERE.

BARBIE THE ALBUM’s internet-breaking rollout first launched in May and the soundtrack has since become a critically acclaimed worldwide pop phenomenon, with more than 500M+ global streams and over 4B+ total social impressions to date across its electric singles and colossal videos. First came the electrifying lead single “Dance The Night” from 3x GRAMMY® Award-winning global superstar Dua Lipa, who also makes a special appearance in the film. Produced by Mark Ronson, Andrew Wyatt and the Picard Brothers, “Dance The Night” arrived alongside a dazzling official video featuring a special appearance from Barbie writer/director/executive producer Greta Gerwig (Little Women, Lady Bird) – watch HERE. Global recording artist KAROL G followed with her high-energy anthem, “WATATI (Ft. Aldo Ranks),” which was complemented by an official visual directed by Mike Ho (Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion, Saweetie) and stars KAROL as she enters the world of Barbie, shot on-site at the World of Barbie in LA – watch HERE. UK-based artist and producer PinkPantheress’ captivating track, “Angel,” dropped next, earning praise from THE NEW YORK TIMES for its “dreamy melody” as ELLE dubbed it “an unexpected party anthem.”

Global megastars Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice then teamed up to take over “Barbie World” with their iconic transformation of Aqua’s classic instantly trending with 600K+ creates across socials while its official TikTok sound boasts over 230M+ video views. First teased at the end of the global Barbie trailer, which hit over 40M views and reached #1 trending on YouTube, “Barbie World” made an explosive Top 10 debut on the BILLBOARD “Hot 100,” officially becoming the highest charting and streaming female rap debut of 2023. Watch the official visual, directed by Hannah Lux Davis and now approaching 28M views, HERE. Charli XCX’s “Speed Drive” continued the streak of hits from BARBIE THE ALBUM, garnering 10M+ streams and 6M+ TikTok views in its first week. The hottest new, history-making K-Pop group, FIFTY FIFTY’s “Barbie Dreams” arrived earlier this month, featuringAtlanta-bred rapper and viral “Area Codes” hitmaker, Kaliii and an interpolation of Janet Jackson’s “Together Again” – listen HERE. Last week saw the premiere of “What I Was Made For?” from the Oscar, Golden Globe and multiple GRAMMY® Award winning Billie Eilish, composed alongside and produced by her brother FINNEAS. The heart-rending ballad arrived with an official self-directed video – watch HERE.

BARBIE THE ALBUM continues the hugely successful partnership between Atlantic Records and Warner Bros. Pictures. The two companies previously teamed up for 2020’s BIRDS OF PREY: THE ALBUM which spawned the RIAA Certified 2x Platinum smash “Boss B*tch” by Doja Cat, along with the 2016’s GRAMMY® Award-nominated SUICIDE SQUAD: THE ALBUM, which topped album charts in over 70 countries around the world, including two consecutive weeks on the Billboard 200, and featured the RIAA Certified Diamond hit “Heathens” by Twenty One Pilots.   

BARBIE THE ALBUM was executive produced by internationally renowned DJ and Oscar, Golden Globe and 7x GRAMMY® award winning artist and producer, Mark Ronson and Barbie writer/director/executive producer Greta Gerwig. The soundtrack album was Produced and overseen by Atlantic Records’ West Coast President, Kevin Weaver (Soundtrack Album Producer of The Greatest Showman, Suicide Squad, Daisy Jones & The Six, Birds Of Prey, Furious 7, The Fault in Our Stars, The Fate of the Furious) and Atlantic Records’ EVP and Co-Head of Pop/Rock A&R, Brandon Davis. Named by ROLLING STONE as a “soundtrack guru,” Weaver is a GRAMMY® Award winner and five-time nominee, who has produced numerous multi-platinum soundtrack projects that have amassed tens of millions of albums sold worldwide. Additional key players involved on the project include Soundtrack Album Co-Producers, Brandon Creed and Joseph Khoury, as well as the Barbie Music Supervisor and Album Executive Producer, George Drakoulias.    

WHAT CRITICS ARE SAYING ABOUT BARBIE THE ALBUM

Barbie definitely has some sick beats playing in those plastic headphones” – BILLBOARD
“more memorable pop moments than most major motion picture soundtracks” – FADER
“a veritable toybox of the biggest pop stars today” – GRAMMY.COM
“BARBIE THE ALBUM is the gift that keeps on giving” – HYPEBAE
“a frontrunner for album of the summer” – THE DAILY BEAST
“The Barbie soundtrack is a pop lover’s dream” – ESQUIRE
“a stellar musical experience” – FORBES

ABOUT THE FILM BARBIE

To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken. Warner Bros. Pictures Presents a Heyday Films Production, a LuckyChap Entertainment Production, an NB/GG Pictures Production, a Mattel Production, Barbie. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures and released in theaters only nationwide on July 21, 2023 and internationally beginning July 19, 2023. Directed by Greta Gerwig, Barbie stars Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell. The film is written by Greta Gerwig & Noah Baumbach, based on “Barbie” by Mattel, and produced by David Heyman, Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Robbie Brenner. The executive producers are Gerwig, Baumbach, Ynon Kreiz, Richard Dickson, Michael Sharp, Josey McNamara, Courtenay Valenti, Toby Emmerich and Cate Adams. The film’s music supervisor is George Drakoulias, with music by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt.

BARBIE THE ALBUM TRACKLIST
1. Lizzo – Pink
2. Dua Lipa – Dance The Night
3. Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice – Barbie World (with Aqua)
4. Charli XCX – Speed Drive
5. KAROL G – WATATI (feat. Aldo Ranks)
6. Sam Smith – Man I Am
7. Tame Impala – Journey To The Real World
8. Ryan Gosling – I’m Just Ken
9. Dominic Fike – Hey Blondie
10. HAIM – Home
11. Billie Eilish – What Was I Made For?
12. The Kid LAROI – Forever & Again
13. Khalid – Silver Platter
14. PinkPantheress – Angel
15. GAYLE – butterflie
16. Ava Max – Choose Your Fighte
17. FIFTY FIFTY – Barbie Dreams (feat. Kaliii)
CONNECT WITH BARBIE THE ALBUM:   

BARBIETHEALBUM.COM | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | PRESS SITE 
July 24, 2023
WATCH: Chilling Trailer for 20th Century Studios’ “A Haunting In Venice” Available Now

The chilling trailer and poster for 20th Century Studios’ “A Haunting in Venice,” an unsettling supernatural thriller directed by Oscar® winner Kenneth Branagh based upon the novel “Hallowe’en Party” by Agatha Christie, is available now. The film, which stars Branagh as famed detective Hercule Poirot and features a brilliant acting ensemble portraying a cast of unforgettable characters, including Kyle Allen, Camille Cottin, Jamie Dornan, Tina Fey, Jude Hill, Ali Khan, Emma Laird, Kelly Reilly, Riccardo Scamarcio, and Michelle Yeoh, will open exclusively in theaters September 13, 2023.

“A Haunting in Venice” is set in eerie, post-World War II Venice on All Hallows’ Eve and is a terrifying mystery featuring the return of the celebrated sleuth, Hercule Poirot. Now retired and living in self-imposed exile in the world’s most glamorous city, Poirot reluctantly attends a séance at a decaying, haunted palazzo. When one of the guests is murdered, the detective is thrust into a sinister world of shadows and secrets.

(Facing front, L-R): Jude Hill as Leopold Ferrier, Camille Cottin as Olga Seminoff, Michelle Yeoh as Mrs. Reynolds, Jamie Dornan as Dr. Leslie Ferrier, and Kyle Allen as Maxime Gerard in 20th Century Studios’ A HAUNTING IN VENICE. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Michelle Yeoh as Mrs. Reynolds in 20th Century Studios’ A HAUNTING IN VENICE. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios. © 2023 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Reuniting many of the filmmakers behind 2017’s “Murder on the Orient Express” and 2022’s “Death on the Nile,” the film is directed by Kenneth Branagh with a screenplay by Oscar® nominee Michael Green based upon Agatha Christie’s novel “Hallowe’en Party.” The producers are Kenneth Branagh, Judy Hofflund, Ridley Scott, and Simon Kinberg, with Louise Killin, James Prichard, and Mark Gordon serving as executive producers.

July 21, 2023
UNIQLO to Launch a Second Collaboration Collection with Studio Ghibli

UNIQLO today announces that it will launch the Hey, Let’s collaboration collection with Studio Ghibli on August 21. The new lineup will add a splash of fun to the summer for customers in Southeast Asia. To celebrate, UNIQLO in Singapore will host a series of fun events for Ghibli fans of all ages.

A second UNIQLO and Ghibli collaboration collection exclusively for Southeast Asia
The new collection will be available solely in stores and through UNIQLO.com in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Vietnam. All 27 items will incorporate art featuring Ghibli’s best-known works and designs by Thai artist Kanyada and longtime Studio Ghibli Producer Toshio Suzuki. Items will be in men’s, kids’, and baby sizes. As well as T-shirts, the lineup will also include shirts, sweatshirts, socks, and the Round Mini Shoulder Bags that have proven to be a worldwide hit.

Men’s items

Kids’ iitems

Socks and Round mini shoulder bag

Kicking off with special events at Bugis+ in Singapore
Along with the release of the collection, there will be something fun for Studio Ghibli fans of all ages at a series of special events. A film festival commemorating the collection with free screenings of six Studio Ghibli films will start at the Golden Village cinema at Bugis+ in Singapore from August 17. For a limited time, Bugis+ will also host a stamp rally, feature photo spots with famous scenes from My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away””, and display large models of such popular characters as Totoro and Ponyo. Some Southeast Asian stores will additionally offer kids opportunities to sketch one of Ghibli’s iconic Dust Bunny characters and add them to an art wall, and take part in Ghibli s Hide & Seek games.

Event overview
Dates: Thursday, August 17, through Thursday, September 14, 2023
Venue: Bugis+
Activities: Including film festival at Golden Village Bugis+, photo spot, and large models of characters
Times: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm daily
Admission: Free
Access: 201 Victoria Street #05-01 Bugis+ Singapore 188067

Collection overview
Launch date: Monday, August 21, 2023,

Items:

STUDIO GHIBLI UT Collection
7 designs of Studio Ghibli Short Sleeve UT at Php 790 each
3 designs of Studio Ghibli Sweat Long Sleeve Shirt at Php 1,490 each
3 designs of Studio Ghibli Open Collar Short Sleeve Shirt at Php 1,490 each
6 designs of Kids’ Studio Ghibli Short Sleeve UT at Php 590 each
3 designs of Baby Toddler Studio Ghibli UT at Php 590 each
3 colors Studio Ghibli Round Mini Should Bag at Php 1,490 each
2 designs for Studio Ghibli Socks at Php 590 each

Availability: All UNIQLO stores in Philippines and UNIQLO Online Store
Special site: https://www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/special-feature/ut-collection/ghibli

July 21, 2023
CCP, Andrea O. Veneracion Sing Phils. Foundation Welcome The Sing Phils. Youth Choir Batch 4

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), through its Cultural Exchange Department (CED) and the Andrea O. Veneracion Sing Philippines Foundation welcome the Sing Philippines Youth Choir (SPYC) Batch 4 composed of 39 choristers from 24 provinces and local communities nationwide.

From July 19 to 23, 2023, the SPYC batch 4 will be in Manila to undergo a week-long music camp under the mentorship of Philippine Madrigal Singers (MADz) choirmaster Mark Anthony Carpio and other choral music experts. They will also have a special participation in the MADz concert as part of the AOV International Choral Festival on July 23 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati City.

First organized and launched in 2014, the first batch of SPYC was participated by fifty (50) choristers from 19 provinces across the country who underwent a professional week-long music camp under Carpio. The Sing Philippines movement brings to life National Artist Andrea O. Veneracion’s vision of a nation singing in harmony and united in songs. The second batch was organized in 2016 which added a new set of 50 singers from 26 provinces, the third batch in 2018 had 51 singers from 37 provinces/cities. In 2019, a tour group that was organized from the first 3 batches competed and won 2nd Prize and Gold Diploma for the Classical Mixed & Equal Category and Gold Diploma in the Ethnic Category in the 2022 Busan International Choral Festival and Competition.

Batch 4, which was organized during the pandemic last year, underwent virtual training and performance. This year, they will finally get the chance to make music together face-to-face. Some of them expressed their excitement for the music making together and what the camp will give them as artists and individuals:

Two things: the appreciation of the value and beauty of discipline, and the joy of creating beautiful pieces of art alongside people with whom I share the same aspirations that facilitate peace, love, and unity.

-Jeannard Ticong, tenor, Baguio City-

Art loses meaning when it does not connect with hearts and souls. This music camp will give me a better view and a richer understanding of this wonderful reality.

-Rene Derek Joseph Inapan, Cebu City, Bass-

The F2F Music Camp and Performance gives a significant privilege of sharing the beauty of actual vibrations. Beyond that, choral singing is honing deeper all the dimensions of man (physical, sociopolitical, emotional, spiritual) especially now that we are giving rebirth after the pandemic the unending quest of developing excellence through music making.

-Alshamir Bryan Arripudin, alto, Zamboanga City-

The daily music camp sessions of the SPYC Batch 4 will be held at the Prajna Hall of the Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple (FGSMT) in Manila. The FGSMT has been an active partner and supporter of CCP especially its outreach and cultural exchange programs. Last 2022, they also hosted the SPYC Tour group before they competed in Korea and the annual Kutitap, multi-arts camp for indigenous children.

To date, the SPYC has 213 singers from 56 local communities all over the country.

July 21, 2023
How to treat yourself good in small and big ways

As people continue to spend more time at the office or in school, days can feel longer and extra tiring than usual. But no matter how hectic your days can get, it’s nice to find time to reward yourself so you can stay motivated.

Take a break with a rewarding cup of Swiss Miss

Celebrate your daily achievements, whether big or small, by indulging on simple yet enjoyable treats. Here are some activities you can do to reward yourself.

Put on a face mask for 15 minutes
The beauty of face masks is that it can be applied easily and only takes about 15 minutes to use. This is a perfect reward to give yourself before going to bed after a long day. It can also be a good way to relax when you need a breather in between your tasks.

Schedule a relaxing massage
Spending a good chunk of your time in the office and on the road can take a toll on your body. Try booking a massage session to help improve your physical well-being and to give your body a much-needed rest.

Enjoy a yummy home-cooked meal
A delicious meal can help put you in a good mood, especially if it is a dish that you made for yourself. Treat yourself for a productive week by trying out a new recipe.

Catch up on your favorite series
Sit back and chill at home with your go-to TV shows on your downtime. It can be a K-drama, reality show, or any entertaining series that catches your eye.

Go on a walk
On weekends, bask under the sun and enjoy nature. Visit a nearby park for a breath of fresh air and enjoy an overall relaxing morning. You can even bring your furbaby along for a bit of playtime, or go to the mall for a quick retail therapy.

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a cozy cup of Swiss Miss

Cozy cup of Swiss Miss
A great way to cap off your day is to whip up a warm, cozy cup of Swiss Miss. Made from premium ingredients, this powdered chocolate drink is a satisfying reward that you can enjoy daily. Choose from its various flavors (Milk Chocolate, Hazelnut and Dark Chocolate) to satisfy your sweet cravings after a stressful day. You can even spice things up by enjoying it over ice or with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

No matter how busy you may be, remember to find time to treat yourself good in small and big ways. Swiss Miss is a quick and delicious reward that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere.

Swiss Miss is available in leading supermarkets and Universal Robina Corporation (URC)’s official stores online. For more information, follow the Swiss Miss Philippines Facebook page.

July 21, 2023
Spotlight on Vitality: A Heart-to-Heart on Women’s Health
Explore the importance of prioritizing women’s health and self-care. Understand how these practices empower women and create a positive ripple effect in society. Let’s shine the spotlight on women’s health, because a healthy woman equals a healthy society.

In every phase of life, women don countless hats, juggling responsibilities and multitasking like pros. They’re expected to care for everything and everyone else – but, what about their own wellbeing?

“Women often feel pressured to manage everyone’s lives on top of their own, but it is important to practice proper self-care to manage the many complexities of the female body, including finding safe ways to manage discomforts like dysmenorrhea. Proper self-care and hygiene can always start with right information and further supported by our pro-women products,” according to Ysabel Banson, Group Brand Lead for Sanofi Consumer Healthcare.

Today, women are the driving force behind numerous critical movements in our society. These inspiring changemakers strive to create a better world for us all, putting immense pressure on their shoulders. It is here that the importance of self-care takes center stage.

So, let’s have a heart-to-heart about women’s health. Because, at the end of the day, self-care isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity. It’s the secret recipe for women to transform into the best version of themselves. And, it puts them in the best position to care for the ones they love.

“We need to create a space where we can talk about women’s health more and pay more attention to the changes that every woman’s body goes through. We need to keep advocating for women to embrace their uniqueness, which includes tending to their health through proper self-care,” Banson remarked.

The best way to feel your best even during down days

Many health issues that women experience vary on their current life stage and genetics. Risks towards the most common women-centric diseases can be lessened with proper nutrition, leading a healthy lifestyle, adequate activity, and good hygiene.

There are just as many ways for women to maintain their health and enjoy many years as a healthy and productive individual, and while health challenges vary among individuals, there are five key practices to form a strong foundation:
- Get Moving! – Often in their off days where women feel stressed, anxious, or at their lowest energy levels, activities like walking, gentle running, or yoga, proves to help a lot in improving their mood and boosting their energy.
- Eat like your health depends on it (because it does!) – You are what you eat. For women to feel at their best inside and out, one should adjust their diet to food rich in magnesium and iron to help with iron deficiency and cramps that come during menstruation. Food that includes whole grains, vegetables, and fruits also help with regulating hormones and menstrual cycles.
- A clean femzone is a happy femzone – With women’s unique and ever-changing bodies, their needs change over time as well. To feel and become their best selves, women must always prioritize hygiene especially for parts as sensitive as the femzone. Fortunately for women everywhere, products like Lactacyd Feminine Hygiene fully understand the changes that women’s bodies go through and offer a full range of gentle yet effective options for every kind of care that their femzone might need.
- Know the right medication! (that’s clinically proven safe, of course!) – While home remedies are helpful for minor conditions, the same cannot be said for majority of the health challenges that women experience. Fortunately, there are science-based products like Hyoscine N-butylbromide + Paracetamol (Buscopan Venus) specifically designed to address the dysmenorrhea or menstrual pain and cramps that women go through so they can power through the most challenging days. Although it has been proven to be safe, remember to accompany it with a doctor’s visit first to make sure this is the product you need.
- Intentionally fill up your self-care cup – Becoming the best version of oneself shouldn’t just stop with taking care of the physical self, so make sure to allot time and effort to prioritize proper self-care practices. Prevention is the best self-care practice, and this can be achieved through learning and being constantly informed of the body’s needs, unlearning some, if not all, of one’s bad habits, and meditating and getting enough sleep to strengthen one’s mental wellness. Prioritizing these self-care practices readies you to conquer and live out your purpose in the world once again.
Though these five practices can form a strong foundation on how to take better care of one’s health, self-care can be different for everyone. The best way for women to maintain their health and enjoy their best selves is by prioritizing their health first through actively seeking the right information and healthcare solution for them.

“Our mission as brands for women is to help build a healthier future by helping people help themselves. We give our consumers access to science-based solutions to address many of their health concerns through products like Lactacyd and Buscopan Venus, and we also continue to advocate for stronger women’s health education in the country, especially proactive awareness on the many factors that affect a woman’s body and well-being.”

“Women are a pillar of strength for the Philippines, and we want to continue empowering them to have more agency of their health and live healthy, full lives for themselves and the people around them,” Banson concluded.

Isn’t it high time we shined the spotlight on women’s health? After all, a healthy woman equals a healthy society.

Hyoscine N-butylbromide + Paracetamol is the generic name of Buscopan Venus. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
July 21, 2023
Philips Foundation partners with World Heart Federation to provide half a million children at risk of rheumatic heart disease with access to life-saving early detection

Philips Foundation, with its mission to provide access to quality healthcare for 100 million people a year in underserved communities by 2030, together with World Heart Federation (WHF), today announced a ground-breaking partnership to promote awareness, medical training as well as early diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Asia Pacific (APAC).

The partnership, which kicks off in the Philippines, aims to provide over half a million at-risk children with access to healthcare facilities equipped with trained personnel to diagnose the disease. 190 Regional Health Units (RHUs) providing primary care to a population of over five million will have healthcare workers trained on the rheumatic fever/RHD clinical pathway. 6,000 children in the Philippines will also be screened for RHD using Philips’ innovative handheld point-of-care ultrasound device (POCUS). Additionally, around 200 teachers will be educated on RHD, leading to greater disease awareness that increasing the likelihood that children and young adults seek early diagnosis and treatment.

Launching this year and extending until June 2025, the pilot project in the Philippines targets a combination of challenges – low disease awareness, lack of healthcare access and treatment, inadequate diagnosis, and inadequate medical training – to drive a comprehensive approach to alleviating the burden of RHD. The project also has the support and cooperation of the Philippines Ministry of Health, which ensures alignment with the existing healthcare system, contributing to its long-term sustainability. The project builds on insights gained through a collaborative effort between Philips Foundation and Heart Healers International in Uganda, which looked at the pivotal role of penicillin in the early intervention and management of RHD. Over 100,000 children received echocardiographic screening through the program in 2018, out of which 1,000 have been enrolled in a penicillin treatment program, and five have received life-saving heart surgeries.

“Our partnership with the World Heart Federation aims to drive improved early detection and treatment of rheumatic heart disease, while demonstrating the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of this innovative approach in the Philippines,” said Margot Cooijmans, Director of the Philips Foundation. “Rheumatic heart disease remains a pressing issue in underserved regions across the globe, largely overlooked in the global health agenda. The lack of attention and resources in these settings prompts us to ensure that these communities are not left behind as they battle a disease that has already been eradicated elsewhere.”

Tackling the high burden of RHD in underserved communities across APAC

RHD is a life-threatening but preventable heart condition that affects an estimated 40 million people worldwide, primarily adolescents and children[1]. In the APAC region, the prevalence and mortality rates are particularly significant, with the largest estimated number of cases of RHD in 2015 in India at 13.17 million cases followed by Indonesia with a high prevalence of 1.18 million[2]. The Philippines is also among the higher-burden countries[3].

For effective diagnosis of RHD, POCUS, a handheld ultrasound solution offers a variety of benefits. This device has been shown to be far more sensitive in diagnosing RHD than traditional cardiac screening with a stethoscope that is used in most resource-stretched settings where ultrasound is not available at primary care sites. This device eliminates delays in traditional diagnosis and treatment, as well as additional expenses for patients who needed to travel to hospitals for proper diagnosis.

“In APAC, rheumatic heart disease represents a significant public health burden in underserved populations. By leveraging Philips’ innovative healthcare technology and solutions in meaningful partnerships like this, we contribute to improved healthcare access and drive better outcomes for patients. This project not only represents a significant opportunity for healthcare advancement but is also a crucial step to eliminate rheumatic heart disease,” said Caroline Clarke, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President, Philips APAC.

Strategic partnership to bridge the need gaps

Philips Foundation, together with the World Heart Federation, will be able to address this gap by having POCUS and trained healthcare workers in high-risk areas with limited resources. The first leg of the project will run in three high-prevalence areas of the Philippines: Taguig Global City, Iloilo, and Bicol, and includes intensive training and education for local healthcare workers on handheld echocardiographic screening, RHD clinical pathways, and benzathine penicillin administration. In the project, 20 RHUs providing primary care will be equipped with POCUS, allowing patients at risk to be referred to an RHU equipped with a POCUS for further detection. “The partnership showcases a strong commitment to education and training of healthcare workers, ensuring that they are equipped with cutting-edge technology for RHD detection,” says Professor Liesl Zuhlke, Vice-President of the South African Medical Research Council, Paediatric cardiologist and RHD researcher, and World Heart Federation Board Member. “Our goal is to set a precedent for the Asia-Pacific region and the world.”

The project’s innovative decentralized model of RHD care allows children diagnosed with RHD to receive follow-up treatment within their local community. This approach ensures that the treatment model is sustainable and respects existing healthcare infrastructure, a critical factor for the success of this model in other parts of the world.

Building the foundation for improved diagnosis of RHD

This partnership will provide further evidence of the benefits of POCUS use for RHD and an example that can be implemented elsewhere in the region. The World Heart Federation and Philips Foundation will share their preliminary findings of the Philippines project at the inaugural Global Congress on RHD in Abu Dhabi in November 2023 to facilitate discussions on further collaboration projects to advocate for the use of POCUS in the screening of RHD and drive targeted actions to support the implementation in primary care settings across highly prevalent countries in the APAC region.

“We are confident that the insights gleaned from this project will contribute significantly to the global understanding of Rheumatic Heart Disease and serve as a stepping-stone to further partnerships and initiatives,” adds Professor Liesl Zuhlke.

July 20, 2023
SM honored for efforts in empowering PWDs at this year’s Apolinario Mabini Awards

SM Prime was recently honored at this year’s the 2023 Apolinario Mabini Awards for its efforts in empowering and uplifting Persons With Disabilities (PWDs). The organization took home multiple awards, conferred to it by the Philippine Foundation for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled (PFRD), at a special ceremony held at the Heroes Hall in Malacañang Palace, last 18 July 2023.

The awards bestowed include the Empowerment of Persons With Disabilities Award given to SM Cares, SM Supermalls’ corporate social responsibility arm, along with the Disability-Friendly Establishment Award given to several SM Malls and SM Offices. Special distinction was conferred to SM City Grand Central being the sole Gold winner, while SM City Urdaneta Central and SM City Telabastagan both received Bronze.

Special citations were also given to SM City Tanza, SM City Dasmariñas, SM City Iloilo, SM City Bacolod, and SM City Cagayan de Oro Uptown for partial compliance with Batas Pambansa Blg. 344, or An Act to Enhance the Mobility of Disabled Persons by Requiring Certain Buildings, Institutions, Establishments and Public Utilities to Install Facilities and Other Devices. SM Offices was also recognized under the Disability-Friendly Establishment category, with SM Cyber Two Makati receiving a Bronze award, and special honors awarded to One E-Com and Three E-Com Centers.

(L-R) Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Supermalls SVP Engr. Bien Mateo and SM Offices VP Alexis Ortiga receiving SM Group’s Apolinario Mabini awards

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri graced the conferment with their presence. SM Supermalls President Steven T. Tan was also in attendance, alongside SM Supermalls SVP for Operations and Director for SM Cares Program on Persons with Disabilities Engr. Bien C. Mateo and SM Prime VP for SM Offices Alexis L. Ortiga.

“It is indeed an honor for SM’s efforts to be recognized by the PFRD,” said Tan. “We work hard to ensure that our SM Malls cater to the needs of our fellow Filipinos who live with disabilities because we want to facilitate a safe and inclusive space for them. We are humbled to be consistent awardees at the Apolinario Mabini Awards because it only reassures us that we are fulfilling that goal.”

“SM believes in advocating for a more inclusive environment for the disabled community, which is clear through the initiatives we push forward,” said Mateo. “More than creating projects for the benefit of disabled persons, we also want to spread awareness and encourage compassion among those of us who are able-bodied. We believe that is what is needed to create a society that is truly inclusive of Persons With Disabilities.”

Established by the PFRD on its Silver Anniversary in 1974, the Apolinario Mabini Awards is a biennial program named after one of the country’s most well-known heroes. Also known as the Sublime Paralytic, Mabini’s disability did not hinder him from playing a major role in the Philippine revolution. Thus, the awards are given to professionals and organizations that have empowered and rendered outstanding services to persons with disabilities, and are considered to be the most prestigious prize for Persons with Disabilities-related organizations and programs in the country.

SM Supermalls representatives with Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Apolinario Mabini Awards 2023 officials, Mrs. Audrey Tan-Zubiri and Arch. Jaime Silva

SM Prime is a strong advocate for persons with disabilities, with many notable programs under SM Cares designed to uplift and empower this sector of society. Several initiatives for disabled persons include the award-winning Emergency Disaster Preparedness Forum, which aims to equip persons with disabilities with the knowledge and skills to become more resilient and better prepared during natural disasters, as well as The Blackout Zone, the first experiential exhibit that simulates blindness and encourages sighted individuals to develop a deeper understanding of the struggles and challenges faced by the those who are visually impaired community.

SM Cares’ initiatives also reflect the organization’s support for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly “SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities”. Other advocacies of SM Cares include Programs for the Environment, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative.

To learn more about these programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

July 20, 2023
Groove to Barbie the Album at this exclusive Dance Blowout Party!

Much anticipation has surrounded Barbie the Movie, and it’s no secret that the same can be said about its soundtrack. The songs featured throughout the film have been revealed one by one, from superstar Dua Lipa’s electrifying “Dance the Night” to rap queens Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice’s “Barbie World,” which is an iconic take on Aqua’s song “Barbie Girl.”

Another exciting addition to the Barbie the Album is the high-energy track from K-Pop group FIFTY FIFTY “Barbie Dreams,” which also features Atlanta bred rapper Kaliii. The track uses an interpolation of Janet Jackson’s “Together Again,” adding a hint of nostalgic appeal.

With such a diverse and talented set of artists, it’s no wonder that even its soundtrack is adding to the film’s hype. Luckily, Filipino fans who are excited to listen to the entire Barbie the Album are in for a treat – Warner Music Philippines is partnering with the Studio Dance Club for an exclusive album pre-release Dance Blowout Party! This event is set to happen on July 20th, 2023, 7 PM, a day ahead of Barbie’s world premiere.

Barbie’s night out

Attendees will have the chance to dance the night with five dance instructors who will teach all the Barbies and Kens to move to the album’s tracks. Everyone is invited to come in their best Barbiecore and Ken-ergy outfits – a perfect match to the venue’s Barbie-inspired décor.

Themed Barbie and Ken drinks will be available for all of the attendees, and dinner will be served on the house. A disco-themed photo area will also be set up inspired by Dua Lipa’s ‘Dance the Night’ music video.

To get an invitation to this dance-fueled night, interested attendees simply have to sign up through this form.

It’s a Barbie world!

Those who can’t attend the dance party can still catch other colorful, Barbie-fied activities. One of these is the BarbieLand set up on the SM Mall of Asia Atrium, where anyone will be able to step into Barbie’s world. This includes life-sized displays, Barbie-themed donuts and drinks, and a mirror-and-jukebox set-up to sing along to the album’s hottest pre-released tracks, and take fabulous photos in the process.

Additionally, an advanced screening for Barbie the Movie is set to happen, along with none other than the Divine Divas – Precious Paula Nicole, Viñas Deluxe, and Brigiding. This dazzling trio will be performing to the album’s pre-released tracks, further adding to the excitement that the Barbie movie already brings.

Barbie the Movie premiers worldwide on July 21, 2023, and premiers in the Philippines on July 19, 2023. The Barbie the Album deluxe version is set for release on July 28, 2023.

Ready to get your groove on? Listen to the Barbie the Album tracks here.

July 19, 2023
Countdown Begins: Brothers Burger’s 24th Anniversary Limited Edition Treats Await You!

Attention all gourmet burger lovers – the countdown is on! Brothers Burger is nearing the end of its delectable 24th-anniversary celebration, and if you haven’t tried their limited-edition burger delights yet, now is the time.

Since June 23, Brothers Burger has been treating its patrons to two exclusive creations: the Smashed-style Grilled Cheeseburger and the Classic Brothers Grilled Cheeseburger. But hurry, as these innovative treats will only be available until July 23, 2023 – that’s four days from today!

Savor the Classic… Before It’s Too Late

The Classic Brothers Grilled Cheeseburger is a cheese lover’s dream come true. Featuring four layers of cheese-infused smashed buns, with the iconic Brothers Burger patty in the middle, this burger is a gastronomic journey not to be missed.

Show some love for the other half of limited-edition Grilled Cheeseburger series – the Classic Brothers Grilled Cheeseburger
Image Source: Brother Burger FB

Embrace the Unique Smashed-style

For those craving something different, the Smashed-style Grilled Cheeseburger is your go-to option. This mirrors the same layered construction of its Classic counterpart but replaces the traditional patty with indulgent smashed ground beef.

Anniversary Bundle: Last Chance to Grab!

You have just four days left to grab the Brothers Burger’s Anniversary Bundle in select Brothers Burger branches. Priced at only Php 350, this bundle allows you to choose between the Smashed-style or Classic Grilled Cheeseburger, and also throws in a tasty onion rings sampler.

These grilled cheese series burgers are available in select Brothers Burger branches, but not for long. As we count down the final days, make your way to your nearest location to savor these limited-time gourmet treats.

Brothers Burger‘s 24th anniversary is a celebration of flavor and innovation. Don’t let this chance slip away. With just four days left, are you ready to join the countdown and give your taste buds the treat they deserve?

July 19, 2023