When it comes to pain, Filipinos are well-known for being “matiisin”, enduring the toughness of our daily grind so we can better provide for our loved ones. We often try to ignore the aches and pains due to our fear that medicines will have a negative effect on our body. But there’s no need to tolerate body pain, as effective yet safe medicines are available as found by researches. The question is: which formulation provides quick, worry-free pain relief?

Ibuprofen + Paracetamol: The most effective way to combat body pain

The combination of Ibuprofen and Paracetamol is the most effective over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicine among OTC pain medicines studied according to a 2015 scientific review[ Cochrane (2015). Non-prescription (OTC) oral analgesics for acute pain - an overview of Cochrane reviews (Review). ] by the world-renowned independent research institution, Cochrane. Cochrane evaluates health interventions, best known for their systematic reviews, which select only high-grade clinical researches in assessing the effectiveness and safety of medicines.

Among the different formulations studied, which include ibuprofen, naproxen, paracetamol, and aspirin, the combination Ibuprofen+Paracetamol had the highest success rate in providing pain relief. This combination works because while paracetamol and ibuprofen are both painkillers, they also have different mechanisms of action. As a combination, it has both analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, indicating that it can reduce pain and swelling which also causes pain.

Ibuprofen+Paracetamol can work together to effectively fight body pain. According to Unilab Medical Director Dr. Jonas Policarpio, “On one side, ibuprofen inhibits the release of prostaglandins; while on the other side, paracetamols reset the pain threshold in the brain, harnessing synergies to be able to provide better potency even at low doses while maintaining an excellent margin of safety. Their actions then become complementary, and the effect is synergistic. It’s like a one-two punch.”

A low-dose combination for a safe pain relief

The same review of studies has also shown that the combination of Ibuprofen+Paracetamol has less adverse effects than placebo which proves that Ibuprofen+Paracetamol is not likely to cause serious harmful effects on our body when used at the recommended dose.

When assessed whether individually or as a combination, Paracetamol is generally perceived to be harmless, but Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs are perceived differently. On the contrary, Ibuprofen has been found safe when used as directed.

A scientific paper titled “Ibuprofen Safety at the Golden Anniversary: Are all NSAIDs the Same? A Narrative Review”[ Varassi et. al (2019). Ibuprofen Safety at the Golden Anniversary: Are all NSAIDs the Same? A Narrative Review. ] did a comprehensive analysis of published researches on NSAIDs. It concluded that Ibuprofen is ranked among the safest of the NSAID pain relievers. NSAIDs are not all the same when it comes to safety profile. “Risk for GI adverse events, (cardiovascular) side effects, renal, and hepatotoxic effects are very low with ibuprofen compared with other NSAIDs”. This means that Ibuprofen was found to have a very low risk of harm to the gastrointestinal tract, heart, kidney, and liver when taken at the recommended OTC dose.

Another finding of this research was that the health risks were more associated with high therapeutic doses. 200mg Ibuprofen is low in comparison to these prescription-grade medicines.

Among the OTC medications in the Philippines that utilize the effective combination of Ibuprofen+Paracetamol is ALAXAN. It combined a lower level of Ibuprofen & Paracetamol (200mg Ibuprofen and 325mg Paracetamol) to improve its safety profile while harnessing the synergistic effect of the 2 ingredients. It offers relief of mild to moderately severe pain such as muscle pain, arthritis, rheumatism, sprain, strain, tendonitis, backache, stiff neck, tension headache, dysmenorrhea, toothache, pain after tooth extraction and minor surgical operations.

Trusted by many Filipinos for decades, there has been no serious side effects attributable to Ibuprofen+Paracetamol (ALAXAN). That is because of its low-dose combination of Ibuprofen & Paracetamol. This along with following the right dosage helps Ibuprofen+Paracetamol (ALAXAN) to deliver worry-free pain relief for Filipinos.

Proper Dosage is a Must

As with any treatment, following the recommended dosage is a must. For adults and children 12 years and older, the proper dose is 1 tablet or capsule every 6 hours. Do not take longer than 10 days, unless directed by a doctor. Consult your doctor too if you have any serious medical condition. Like any medicine, do not take Ibuprofen+Paracetamol if you have allergies.

For more information about Ibuprofen+Paracetamol (ALAXAN), visit their Facebook Page at @AlaxanFastRelief or visit their website: more about Alaxan. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

The Philippines has made greater strides toward eco-mobility in the past two years. The growth of bike ownership allowed more Pinoys to go out and use a bike, which prompted SM Supermalls to build more bike-friendly spaces.

In celebration of World Bike Day, SM Supermalls together with its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, SM Cares, invites cyclists of all ages to join the 2023 Bike Fest from June 3 to 30. 

Celebrating World Bike Day

Calling all cyclists! On June 3, as we celebrate World Bike Day at SM Mall of Asia, SM City Fairview, SM City Marikina, SM City Clark, SM City Sta. Rosa, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM Lanang Premier join us in our community fun bike ride around the mall complex as part of our advocacy of creating bike-friendly communities across the country.

A Kiddie Bike Clinic will also take place at SM Mall of Asia, SM City Fairview, and SM City Marikina. Where kids, aged 8 to 12, can learn and practice bike handling skills in a fun, safe, and encouraging atmosphere. Kids will also learn about the value of bicycle safety during the workshop. 

Drive to the Best Deals and #AweSM Green Finds

From June 20 to 30, bike aficionados are in for a treat as various promos and deals are available online via the SM Deals and SM Malls Online apps, and on-ground in select malls. Tons of cool cycling gear, accessories, and merchandise will be up for grabs so mark your calendars for this 10-day bicycle galore! On June 27, bikers get free weekend treats!

As advocates of a cleaner and sustainable environment, SM has you covered with our Green Finds. Through the Green Finds badge, customers can easily find eco-friendly and sustainable products. Alongside SM retail affiliate brands, SM Green Finds offer products made from natural ingredients that are resourcefully made, promote local artisans, and support community livelihood. Check out our pop-up shops at the SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM North EDSA, SM Makati, SM City Marikina, SM City Bacolod, SM City Legazpi, and SM Lanang. 

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs for Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on the Environment.

To learn more about our initiatives, visit www.smsupermalls.com and www.smsupermalls.com/smcares or check out @smsupermalls and @officialsmcares on social media. 

foodpanda has launched its first physical pop-up store, allowing consumers to interact with pandamart's online grocery products. Offering a one-stop shop for all food and essential needs, pandamart delivers fresh produce, snacks, drinks, pharmaceuticals, and more to your doorstep in under an hour. The new pop-up store, located in Trinoma Mall, Quezon City, enables shoppers to browse products, order through the foodpanda app, and pick up items on the same day. Enjoy exclusive promos and prizes while exploring the convenience of pandamart's wide assortment of quality products.

As a Mom, we have a lot to do every day, especially for our family. One of the important tasks is taking care of their daily needs, such as food and toiletries. Grocery shopping require a significant effort, especially for working Moms. That’s why online shops are incredibly useful, particularly when it comes to groceries.

Audiences who particpate in the special Facebook livestream online selling event on May 27 will have the chance to receive additional vouchers and prizes worth up to Php 10,000.00. The livestream will showcase the Pandmart pop-up store’s appearnce, available products, fantastic deals, and instructions on how to place an order.

Don't miss out on the chance to visit Trinoma Mall before May ends and discover the impressive features of pandamart brought to you by foodpanda. Experience exceptional groceries, exclusive deals, and exciting prizes. 

"Dami Mong Alam!" follows the story of the Dimasinop siblings as they navigate challenges in managing their finances and learn important lessons in financial management. The five-episode web series, written by acclaimed playwright Eljay Castro Deldoc and directed by Antonette Go, covers various financial management topics, such as budgeting, debt freedom, saving habits, delayed gratification, diversified income, and setting financial goals.

"Visa is dedicated to promoting financial literacy among Filipinos as we recognize that it is a key factor in our nation's economic stability and inclusive growth. We are proud to partner with Tanghalang Pilipino once again, and we are thrilled to launch the all-new web series 'Dami Mong Alam!' to further promote stronger basic financial management," Visa Country Manager for the Philippines and Guam Jeff Navarro shared.

The main characters of the web series are the Dimasinop siblings (Rupee, Euro, Franc, and Ringgit), who learn valuable financial management skills with the guidance of their Tyong Dong and other characters. In addition, financial expert and entrepreneur Ameena Rey-Franc will provide insights and tips in after-show interviews to help viewers better understand financial literacy concepts.

"Dami Mong Alam!" is set to make its debut on May 21, 2023, through DZRH’s youth-oriented program called Tara, Peeps. It will also stream for free via Tanghalang Pilipino’s social media platforms.

This is the third collaboration between Visa and Tanghalang Pilipino. In 2017, they toured several schools in the country with the interactive theater play "Lukot-Lukot, Bilog-Bilog." In 2021, the play became a five-episode web series called "Lukot-Lukot, Bilog-Bilog Pa More," reaching even more Filipinos despite the pandemic's restrictions.

"It is our honor to partner with Visa again to promote financial literacy through 'Dami Mong Alam!' Our collaboration harnesses the power of arts and theater to impart valuable financial lessons and enable Filipinos to make informed decisions regarding their finances," Tanghalang Pilipino Company Manager Carmela Millado-Manuel said.

To watch the financial literacy web series, viewers can tune in to DZRH TV every Sunday at 3:30pm or visit Tanghalang Pilipino’s Facebook page and Youtube channel. “Dami Mong Alam!” will run from May 21 until June 18.

After racking up millions of views and drawing praises from netizens for its wit and creativity, the viral video of mobile brand TNT entitled “Tattoo” has been recognized as Best TV material by Bestads, the world's best global ad industry website.

Bestads selects the best advertisements in every medium each week from submissions all over the world, as judged by a top creative director or team.

The first Filipino video to top the Bestads list within the past three years, “Tattoo,” is part of TNT’s "Mag-SIM Reg Para Hindi SIM Dead" campaign and is one of three videos aimed at encouraging subscribers to register their SIMs to avoid permanent SIM deactivation and all its hassles.

Reminder of how good it feels to laugh

“Tattoo” was handpicked by guest judge Maria Devereux, Head of Innovation and Executive Creative Director at Accenture Song, North America.

“This film reminded me how good it feels to laugh,” noted the multi-awarded Los Angeles-based creative. “A simple idea that touched on a relatable pain point for anyone who hates the complexity of life admin, which as far as I can tell, is pretty much everyone,” she added.

"We are honored with this recognition from Bestads, which proves the power of creative storytelling to touch people and move them to action - while eliciting a good laugh,” said Francis E. Flores, SVP and Head of Consumer Wireless Business – Individual at Smart.

“This is a result of all the creativity, hard work, and the collaboration among the TNT and Smart teams as well as our partner agency, who are all committed to inform our subscribers about the importance of SIM Registration,” he added.

Over 40 million views across channels

In the clever and creative film, TNT sticks to its brand promise of delivering 'saya' or fun - even in a public service reminder that shows the universal pain points of dealing with administrative processes.

The video features a man visiting a remittance center to claim his cash but fails to provide his One-Time Password (OTP) for lack of a registered SIM. To prove his identity, he resorts to showing his graduation photo, driver's license, SSS ID, and birth certificate—all tattooed on his body! Watch the film here: 

Now in its 14th year, the campaign in partnership with the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation has raised a total of P750,000 to establish one E-hub, support 110 scholars, and provide 1,300 dream kits.

The E-hub aims to support students and teachers with access to six laptops, internet connection, and allowance for logistical expenses. The scholars, on the other hand, will be given financial aid for school supplies, transportation, learning modules, hygiene kits, and face masks. Meanwhile, the dream kits, containing school supplies like notebooks, pens, and pencils, among others, have already been distributed to teachers and learners.

“The future of our world is really dependent on future generations to come, and this is why we must help provide them with the opportunities to make their #BiggerDreams come true,” said Bea Lim, Managing Director of TeamAsia and Chief Dream Builder of MDIAS. “MDIAS stayed true to its commitment of making students’ #BiggerDreams come true by adapting to the changing times and providing support that is relevant to the learning setup today.”

She added, “Through MDIAS, we hope that the public and our partners will continue to help us in the coming years in supporting Filipino children to learn, build their futures, and make their #BiggerDreams come true.”

For Dr. Anton Mari Lim, Co-Founder of the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation, the continued partnership with TeamAsia for the MDIAS campaign has made a significant impact on the communities that the foundation supports.

Scholars from Yellow Boat of Hope School Maluso in Basilan, Sulu.

Scholars from Mantatao Elementary School in Calape, Bohol

Scholars from Caohagan Elementary School in Cebu

“More children are encouraged to go to school because of the support they receive from these organizations,” he said. “By providing financial assistance and other forms of aid, these partners have helped to create an environment where young people feel valued and supported. As a result, we have seen many children who were previously struggling to attend school now able to continue their education.”

He added, “Hope is the driving force behind our mission to support Filipino students with their education. It is the foundation of the partnership we share with TeamAsia and My Dream in a Shoebox, and it is what inspires us to keep pushing forward. We are so grateful for your unwavering support and commitment to making #BiggerDreams come true for more children around the Philippines.”

Since 2009, MDIAS has been equipping less fortunate Filipino children with educational assistance. It started with a modest collection of 200 shoeboxes from TeamAsia’s industry partners and friends, containing school supplies to inspire children to go to school. Through the years, it has expanded to sponsoring students from various partner communities across the country and impacted as much as 400,000 lives.

In 2022, MDIAS raised nearly P1 million that funded three E-hubs, sponsored 100 scholars, and provided 1,000 dream kits.

TeamAsia believes in education for all. Through My Dream in a Shoebox, the company hopes to help even more children and help make more #biggerdreams come true for the next school year and the years to come.