Category: Fashion & Beauty

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The Pain Map: Navigating Upper vs. Lower Belly Trouble

Masakit ang tiyan? Sure ka bang tama ang gamot mo diyan?

Filipinos tend to treat “masakit ang tiyan” as one simple problem with one go-to solution. But is it really that simple? A stomachache can mean many things: kabag, pangangasim ng sikmura, constipation, or even cramps. Same stomach, different causes, so when it comes to getting over that belly pain, it’s never a one-size-fits-all answer.

Instead of guessing, it helps to understand what your body is actually telling you. Think of your belly as a map. Each zone corresponds to different organs, so where it hurts can reveal just as much as how it feels. Read both right, and you’re not just guessing—you’ll actually get to the bottom of it.

The Upper Belly Pain: Is it Indigestion—or Something Worse?

Upper belly acting up? That familiar flaring up or happy, uncomfortable bloating or a sharp, gnawing pain? That’s not just a random stomachache; that’s usually hyperacidity or pangangasim ng sikmura. These are often felt above the navel, up to the chest area, and tend to show up after meals—especially after that extra spicy or oily meal or that “promise, last na ‘to'” moment.

This kind of discomfort is your digestive system reacting in real time. The usual suspects are indigestion, acid reflux, and kabag. Same upper belly zone, but different triggers.

Manageable at first, but if the pain sticks around, worsens, or comes with red flags like vomiting, fever, or unexplained weight loss, that’s your cue to stop guessing and get it checked.

The Lower Belly Trouble: Just a Passing Cramp—or Something More Serious?

If the pain hits around or below the navel, it may be linked to functional abdominal cramping pain (FACP). Think hilab, ipit, tusok—the kind of pain na namimilipit sa sakit, and it often comes and goes.

FACP can appear on its own or with symptoms like pagtatae (diarrhea), constipation, or bloating. One minute you’re fine, the next you feel butterflies in your stomach—and not the kilig kind. It’s not always triggered by food either. Stress, pressure, and kaba can also directly affect your gut.

At its core, this type of pain is tied to how your digestive system functions—factors like gut sensitivity, intestinal muscle movement, or even an imbalance of “good” and “bad” bacteria can all play a role.

But if the pain becomes severe, one-sided, or comes with fever, nausea, or difficulty urinating, don’t brush it off. That’s your sign to get it checked.

 

What Can You Do For Upper and Lower Belly Pains

This is where it gets practical. If it’s upper belly pain caused by acid, antacids can help calm the burn. If it’s lower-belly cramps, that’s where antispasmodics like Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) come in to ease the tension.

 

Hyoscine N-butylbromide (Buscopan) is a naturally derived antispasmodic suitable for adults and children over 6 years old. It treats pain at the source, works in as fast as 15 minutes, and provides all-day relief—while helping reduce the intensity and frequency of lower-belly pain episodes.

 

For milder cases, Hyoscine N-Butylbromide (Buscopan) is recommended for light to moderate abdominal cramps, while Hyoscine N-Butylbromide Paracetamol (Buscopan Plus) is designed for more severe cramping. The usual dose is 1–2 tablets, 3x a day for not more than 3 days, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Your body’s not being dramatic—it’s being specific. Masakit ang tiyan isn’t just one thing, and where the pain hits is a clue, not a coincidence. Go back to the map: upper or lower, hapdi or hilab—each one points to a different cause and a different solution.

Read it right, and you can stop guessing and choose the right care—whether it’s for pangangasim ng sikmura, kabag, constipation, or cramping pain like FACP (where antispasmodics like Buscopan can help).

Because at the end of the day, hindi lahat ng sakit ng tiyan pare-pareho—and your treatment shouldn’t be either. And when in doubt, it’s always best to consult your doctor.

IF SYMPTOMS PERSIST, CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR

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Treat Yourself Promo 2026: Deals, Rewards, and Freebies at SM Supermarket & Savemore

Grocery shopping just got a whole lot more exciting. SM Supermarket and Savemore are bringing back their popular “Treat Yourself” promo, giving shoppers more ways to enjoy exclusive deals, earn rewards, and take home exciting freebies.

Running from April 15 to June 15, 2026, this much-anticipated campaign is packed with value—whether you’re shopping in-store or online at smmarkets.ph. Backed by trusted brands like Del Monte, Unilever, Lucky Me, Nissin, Head & Shoulders, and Creamsilk, every purchase comes with added perks.

Earn More Rewards When You Shop

Make every grocery run count with extra SMAC points when you purchase participating items at SM Supermarket and select Savemore stores.

Shoppers can also enjoy:

    • Free SM Bonus items with qualifying purchases using SMAC
    • 4+1 bundles and exclusive in-store deals

It’s a simple upgrade to your usual grocery routine—more value, more rewards.

Shop Online and Get Exclusive Freebies

If you prefer shopping from home, Treat Yourself has you covered. With a minimum spend of ₱1,500 on participating items, you can score limited-time freebies using special promo codes.

Freebie Schedule:

    • April 18–19, 24–25 & May 2–3
      Code: TY FOOD – Free Lay’s Stax Sour Cream & Onion (42g)
    • May 9–10, 17–18 & 23–24
      Code: TYBEAUTY – Free Creamsilk Hairfall Defense Conditioner (320ml)
    • May 30–31, June 6–7 & 13–14
      Code: TYHEALTH – Free Pediasure Plus Choco Liquid (110ml x 4 RTD)

Perfect for stocking up on essentials while enjoying a little extra.

Experience the Treat Yourself Expo

The Treat Yourself Expo adds even more excitement to your shopping experience, featuring games, exclusive promos, and surprise rewards.

Highlights:

    • Indulge Wheel – Spin for prizes with a minimum ₱500 purchase using SMAC
    • Surprise Treat – 50 lucky shoppers can get ₱200 OFF vouchers (with a minimum ₱3,000 spend), redeemable until June 15

Upcoming Locations:

    • May 1–3 – Savemore Festival Mall
    • May 15–17 – SM Supermarket Southmall
    • May 29–June 1 – SM Supermarket Fairview

 

Collect Limited-Edition Sticker Surprises

Starting May 1, 2026, SMAC members can collect fun, limited-edition “Sticker Surprise” collectibles featuring Ron Turon and partner brands.

Get them with a minimum ₱1,500 grocery purchase at SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and select Savemore stores.

These playful stickers are perfect for personalizing notebooks, tumblers, journals, and gadgets—adding a little fun to your everyday essentials.

Make Every Grocery Trip More Enjoyable

With the return of Treat Yourself, every trip to SM Markets becomes more rewarding. From exclusive deals and bonus rewards to exciting freebies and collectibles, there’s always something extra to look forward to.

So whether you’re shopping for essentials or indulging in your favorites, now’s the perfect time to treat yourself.

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Bridging Filipino Creativity to the Global Stage: SoFA Design Institute Partners with IE University

In today’s rapidly evolving creative landscape, design education is no longer confined within national borders. For aspiring designers, exposure to global perspectives, cross-cultural collaboration, and international opportunities has become an essential part of professional growth. Recognizing this shift, SoFA Design Institute has taken a significant step forward by launching a new academic partnership with IE University in Spain—an initiative that opens new global pathways for Filipino creatives.

For over a decade, SoFA Design Institute has built a reputation as one of the Philippines’ leading centers for creative education. The institution has consistently focused on nurturing talent while equipping students with the technical skills, critical thinking, and creative confidence needed to thrive in the design industry both locally and abroad.

This commitment to global engagement came to life on March 11 with the official launch of the SoFA–IE University partnership. The collaboration was unveiled during a curated event held at SoFA’s campus at The Proscenium Retail Row—an intimate gathering that brought together educators, creatives, and design enthusiasts for a morning centered on ideas, creativity beyond borders, and the evolving future of design education.

Creativity Without Borders

One of the highlights of the launch was a Creative Conversation featuring Flabelus, a Spanish footwear brand known for reinterpreting traditional craftsmanship through contemporary design and storytelling. Leading the discussion was Pilar Oraa, the brand’s International PR and Communications Director, who shared insights into how heritage craftsmanship can be transformed through modern creative expression.

The conversation provided attendees with a glimpse into how global design brands combine storytelling, culture, and innovation to create products that resonate across markets.

Expanding Opportunities for Students

The partnership also introduced new educational pathways for SoFA students. Andrea Pagani, Senior Associate Director of Business Development for Undergraduates in Southeast Asia and Oceania at IE University, presented the opportunities available through the collaboration.

Joining the discussion were SoFA co-founders Loralee Baron-Soong and Amina Aranaz-Alunan, along with Mads Constantino, Director for Academic Affairs at SoFA Design Institute, who hosted the morning session.

Through the partnership, SoFA students will gain access to a range of international learning experiences, including:

    • Global internship opportunities
    • Immersive Spanish design tours
    • Exchange programs
    • Summer school programs with IE University

These initiatives aim to expose students to diverse design environments while allowing them to participate in short-term international creative experiences that broaden both perspective and practice.

A Global Mindset for Filipino Designers

For many aspiring creatives in the Philippines, international exposure can be transformative. Today’s design industry increasingly values professionals who can navigate different cultural contexts while contributing original perspectives to global conversations.

By connecting with institutions such as IE University and collaborating with brands like Flabelus, SoFA Design Institute is actively creating pathways for Filipino designers to engage with international networks.

What began as a specialized design school in Manila is gradually evolving into a dynamic platform where local creativity meets global opportunity. Through partnerships like this, Filipino talent is being positioned to contribute meaningfully to the global design community.

As design education continues to expand beyond borders, initiatives like the SoFA–IE University collaboration demonstrate how institutions can empower students to explore new creative traditions, participate in international dialogue, and cultivate a truly global mindset.

For more information about the partnership and upcoming programs, visit the official website of SoFA Design Institute and follow their social media pages for updates.

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GlutaMAX Launches ‘Body PUTItivity’ to Redefine Skin Confidence

After 18 years in the Philippine market, GlutaMAX is stepping into a new chapter.

With the launch of its latest campaign, Body PUTItivity, the brand signals more than just a refresh — it marks a thoughtful repositioning shaped by how today’s consumers define beauty, empowerment, and self-expression.

At its heart, Body PUTItivity reframes skin brightening as an act of personal agency rather than a response to imposed beauty standards. In a landscape where conversations about skin tone and representation continue to evolve, GlutaMAX is choosing to meet the dialogue head-on — not defensively, but deliberately

A Strategic Evolution, Not Just a Relaunch

During the campaign unveiling in Manila, Aiza Diuco-Sun, Executive Director for Strategy and Marketing of HealthWellnessLifestyle, Inc., described the moment as one of clarity.

“This event marks the official relaunch of GlutaMAX. It is about clarifying who we are today and what we stand for moving forward,” she shared. “For 18 years, GlutaMAX has been a trusted name in skin brightening in the Philippines. Today, we are strengthening our voice. We are refining our message.”

That refinement centres on a key idea: choosing brighter or more even-looking skin can be a valid form of self-care—and that choice need not be at odds with inclusivity.

Rather than positioning brightening as an obligation or comparative benchmark, Body PUTItivity affirms that skincare decisions are deeply personal. They reflect comfort, confidence, and autonomy—not compliance.

An Ambassador Who Embodies the Message

A defining moment of the relaunch was the introduction of Vanessa Tse Wing as the brand’s newest ambassador.

A decade-long GlutaMAX user, Tse Wing brings credibility beyond endorsement. With a background as a former national titleholder, scholar, and now public servant, she represents layered achievement and growth.

In her testimonial, she emphasized ownership over expectation.

“As a titleholder, as a student, and now as a public servant, I’ve learned that confidence isn’t about meeting expectations. It’s about owning your decisions.”

Her words echo the campaign’s core philosophy: self-care, when intentional, becomes an expression of self-respect.

Notably, the brand steered away from traditional “before and after” narratives. Instead, it focused on evolving self-assurance—a subtle but meaningful shift in storytelling that aligns with current beauty discourse.

Reinforcing the System Behind the Message

Beyond messaging, the event spotlighted GlutaMAX’s product innovations, particularly its NanoWhite Technology formulation—designed for whitening and skin protection as part of a daily self-care routine.

Campaign visuals and an official jingle were also unveiled, reinforcing themes of inclusivity, individuality, and self-determination.

Attendees noted the campaign’s measured tone, especially given how sensitive discussions around skin tone can be. Rather than dismissing criticism or avoiding nuance, the brand leaned into dialogue—acknowledging that skincare preferences vary and that respect for those differences is essential.

A Timely Position in a Changing Market

Body PUTItivity enters the market at a time when empowerment is increasingly self-defined. Consumers are no longer responding to singular beauty narratives; they are shaping their own.

By emphasizing coexistence—that embracing one’s natural tone and choosing to brighten can both stem from confidence—GlutaMAX demonstrates strategic awareness of shifting expectations.

In an environment where conversations can easily polarize, the campaign’s insistence on personal choice over prescription feels both balanced and forward-looking.

If early reactions are any indication, Body PUTItivity may extend beyond a seasonal initiative. It presents a framework for how legacy beauty brands can remain culturally responsive without abandoning their core category strength.

At its core, the message is simple yet resonant: confidence is personal—and the freedom to choose is part of that confidence.

 

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Catriona Gray and Taiwan Excellence’s LOHAS Lifestyle Make Their Philippine Debut at Market! Market!

The three-day LOHAS Days event, organized by Taiwan Excellence, began on September 12 at Ayala Malls Market! Market! with the formal kickoff. The event’s goal is to encourage Filipinos to adopt a LOHAS lifestyle. Upon her official introduction as a Taiwan LOHAS Advocate, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray held a press conference that kicked off the event.

Group photo of brand representatives for LOHAS Days. From left to right: Fu Bear, Arnold Wilson (Marketing Manager, Anytime Fitness Asia Corporate), Sky Pichay (_, JK Fitness), Armin Lavilla (Aropec), Ms. Josephine Shun (Director of the Economic Division, TECO), Mr. Alex Lai (Director, Taiwan Trade Center, Manila), Markki Stroem, Catriona Gray, Steve Chen (Chief Operating Officer, Starbia), Jacqueline Hsiao (Vinxper)

This was a huge deal for Taiwan, as it was an opportunity to showcase their sustainability and wellness technologies to the people of the Philippines. In a show of solidarity, senior executives from Taiwanese institutions and well-known health businesses were there.

Invigorating the audience and signifying Taiwan’s dramatic debut into the wellness scene in the Philippines, the press conference started with a lively cheer dance performance set to the anthem of Taiwan’s professional baseball team.

“Taiwan is serious about health.” The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Josephine Shun, Director of the Economic Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines. A lofty goal, Healthy Taiwan, is being advocated for by our government. One of the world’s top three producers of fitness equipment, Taiwan is also known as the Bicycle Kingdom. I hope you enjoy your surroundings and have a great time with your loved ones.

Bringing over 30 unique items, 17 Taiwanese enterprises have participated in the LOHAS movement, according to Mr. Alex Lai, Director of the Taiwan Trade Center Manila. The Taiwan Excellence Awards have honored innovation, one of Taiwan’s most cherished characteristics. The conviction that innovation improves people’s lives is the foundation of every award.

Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, spoke on the importance of the LOHAS movement in the Philippines.

According to Miss Catriona Gray, who is very enthusiastic about the movement:

I’ve always looked up to Taiwan because of how seriously it takes health and fitness issues. The sharing of LOHAS in the Philippines serves as a powerful reminder that we can all adopt a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.

During the launch ceremony, Anytime Fitness Asia Corporate’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Ms. Anne Constantino, spoke about her time working with the smart workout equipment firm Johnson Fitness, based in Taiwan. Aropec, Vinxper, Starbia, and JK Fitness are among the other Taiwanese brands that are on board with the project.

First Day: What to Do

On September 12, Market! Market! came alive all day long as participants in LOHAS Days could enjoy free fitness activities like spin classes, yoga, and high-energy body combat.

At LOHAS Days, you may find wellness seminars and exercise classes, but you can also peruse a wide array of cutting-edge items from renowned Taiwanese firms. These products demonstrate the seamless integration of technology and sustainability into everyday life:

The XTC SLR 29 from Giant features their superior ALUXX SLR aluminum frame, which is known for its exceptional lightness, stiffness, and durability. This frame guarantees stability, speed, and assured handling on any terrain.
Makalot is an AI-powered motion tracking suit that uses dependable sensors and algorithms to precisely record joint motion and angles in AR/VR and animation.

The Swift Edge 14 AI from Acer is designed to be both creative and productive, with a long battery life of up to 21 hours.

FECA’s Slam Dunk Basketball Kit showcases their magic suction technology and provides a flexible, sturdy, and environmentally friendly play area for individuals of all ages.

The Power Hydrate Face Essence by Annie’s Way is a non-sticky, ultra-fast-absorbing face serum that revitalizes, hydrates, and refreshes the skin with a blend of green tea and retinol.

JoJoin us at the Ayala Malls Market for the Lohas Games!et in the game!

At Taguig City’s Ayala Malls Market! Market! LOHAS Days will keep going till September 14. Visitors can participate in fitness classes, wellness seminars, interactive displays, and product showcases that highlight Taiwan’s health and sustainability innovations. There will be fun things for the whole family and fitness fanatics to do, including meeting the event’s lovable mascot, FuBear.

Check out Taiwan Excellence PH’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph for more details about LOHAS Days.

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“Hindi mo kailangang gawin lahat mag-isa.” Ayon sa Celebrity Moms sa Hirap ng Back-To-School Season

School’s officially back, and with it the early mornings, baon prep, never-ending shopping lists, and long days for parents—especially moms. In the newest episode of Mommy, G Ka Na?, celebrity host and mom of two Jolina Magdangal-Escueta opens up about the pressure of balancing her numerous responsibilities during the back-to-school season.

Jolina Magdangal, Dimples Romana, and Angeline Quinto share how GCash helps provide everyday gaan for moms

Together with guests Dimples Romana and Angeline Quinto, the candid conversation turns personal, and the three moms share personal stories, smart strategies, and comforting words for moms who may be overwhelmed with the back-to-school rush. They remind each other, “Hindi mo kailangang gawin lahat mag-isa.”

Amid the laughs and real talk, Jolina, Angeline, and Dimples reveal some of their back-to-school survival tricks.

Angeline, for example, swears by the power of a cute lunchbox (or fun shapes) to get her kids to eat.“Kahit simpleng sandwich lang, basta cute ang baunan, ganado na agad si Sylvio,” she shares.

She and Jolina also agree that fancy recipes aren’t necessary. Instead, a little bit of creativity and a whole lot of love go a long way. As Jolina puts it, “Hindi kailangang mahal ang baon, basta punong-puno ng effort at love, ramdam ‘yan ng mga anak natin.”

Then there’s the never-ending to-do list. I have groceries, bills, and errands to run. Sometimes, when schedules get too packed, there are things forgotten along the way. For when it gets overwhelming, the three moms all agree—shopping online and paying with GCash is the ultimate lifesaver. While doing the laundry or helping with their kids’ homework, they can check off items on their grocery list without even leaving the house!

Dimples, meanwhile, brings up the challenges she faces having to keep up with the constant stream of expenses once the school year starts.From school projects and extracurricular activities to unexpected gastos, the financial pressure doesn’t end after enrollment.

“Kala mo tapos ka na, pero may bagong shoes, uniforms, at pang-extracurricular pa pala,” she opens up. Her solution? We are breaking down the big-ticket items. With GCash’s GGives, she can split purchases like gadgets or sports gear into smaller payments, with zero down payment needed.

And of course, there are the surprise expenses—like when emergencies happen. For those moments, Jolina reminds viewers that they can lean on GCredit, which provides users with a credit line of up to PHP 50,000.

For even bigger needs like tuition fees, there’s also GLoan, which lets users borrow up to PHP 150,000 instantly, with affordable terms and quick disbursement straight to their GCash wallet. “At least you know that there is someone you can rely on.” Hindi ka kakabahan agad,” they agree. For those who encounter unforeseen expenses before payday, it provides peace of mind.

Watch Mommy, G Ka Na? online

Throughout the episodes, a recurring theme emerges: moms can learn a lot from other moms. “Okay lang humingi ng tulong,” Jolina reminds viewers. “May mga kapwa mommy, may mga tools—tulungan tayo.”

 Stream Mommy, G Ka Na? on the official YouTube channel of GCash. Join the conversation online with fellow moms finding gaan and ginhawa in every stage of school-year parenting by following @gcashofficial on Instagram and Facebook.