Local IQVIA 2020 survey for Mylan, a Viatris Company, shows how joint pain and osteoarthritis affect Filipinos both physically and emotionally

In the Philippines, around 4.2 million people suffer from osteoarthritis,  a condition characterized by joint pain which can limit daily activities like walking. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic disease that primarily affects the cartilage, structures that protect the ends of bones within the joints.

Joint pain and osteoarthritis affect more people, and in more ways, that we might realize. As more and more Filipinos are finding it difficult to seek medical advice during this time of uncertainty, it’s important to educate the public about joint pain and osteoarthritis, as well as the potential consequences of delayed treatment.

Filipinos suffering from joint pain have an average age of 61 years, and 1 out of 4 experience joint pain often, at least once a week, sometimes even daily, especially in the hands and knees. There are different attitudes towards the disease based on age. The elderly who are over 65 seem more resigned and indifferent, while younger sufferers at 50-65 years old are more aware and reactive.

42% of elderly respondents consider joint pain a minor or nonexistent health problem. In contrast, around 6 out of 10 sufferers aged 50 to 64 years old are aware that the condition of their cartilages may worsen with age and believe that joint pain is more than a health problem.

These are the main findings from a national survey conducted in Philippines by IQVIA for Mylan, a Viatris company, to investigate the experiences, perceptions and needs of people with joint pain and osteoarthritis. 

The analysis was conducted on 100 patients, men and women, aged 50 years and over, all of whom had to have knee pain. The study provided a clear picture of the condition’s negative impact on quality of life and how treatments can provide relief, allowing them to live healthier with less pain.

THE BURDEN OF DISEASE

In general, about half of the respondents have problems managing the disease emotionally and physically. Sufferers aged 50-65 years old, especially men, feel the emotional burden of the disease more, with almost 4 out of 10 expressing not just feelings of sadness, but also frustration and anxiety. Elderly patients seem to feel the emotional effects of the disease less, with only 2 out of 10 of them
expressing sadness.

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

The survey clearly shows that a large proportion of Filipino respondents never consult a doctor for joint pain. Overall, around 30% of sufferers - 42% among those aged 50-65 years old – say that they have never received a medical diagnosis for their joint related symptoms. In addition, among those who have received a diagnosis, only 1 out of 2 were examined by a specialist, the rest consulted a general practitioner or a pharmacist. 

This lack of a relationship with healthcare professionals (HCPs) is also reflected in the types of treatments these patients are undergoing. Over 4 out of 10 of respondents aged 50-65 use therapies that have been recommended to them by a friend or a relative and only 2 out of 10 follow the advice of the family doctor. Most people with joint pain take food/ dietary supplements, especially women and those aged 50-65.

THE NEED FOR MORE INFORMATION

Filipinos lack awareness on osteoarthritis disease and available treatments. Almost 7 out of 10 respondents declare that they wish to know more about it, especially those aged 50-65.

In order to get more information about OA, half of Filipino patients rely on family and friends or on internet, a trend that is growing more and more among the 50 to 65-year-olds - the category most reluctant to see HCPs. in fact, 77% of them uses online search engines as their primary source.

“At Viatris, we find the results of this research to be both insightful and useful. We are committed to providing support to Filipino doctors and other health care professionals in order to find, together, a way not only to better manage osteoarticular disease, but to also spread health information with the goal of
improving the public’s awareness. 

A need clearly shown in the data presented. We hope that more Filipinos will consult with their HCPs the moment they first feel any symptoms so that they can receive the right treatment early” – declares Viatris Country Manager, Ester C. Tacanay.

Studies have shown that prescription of crystalline glucosamine sulfate has the triple effect of reducing joint pain, improving physical function and delay the progression of osteoarthritis.

Lip balm for men exists!

The skin of the lips is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your body, which is why everyone – even the dashing gentlemen out there – needs to start paying attention to lip care. Let's face it, dry and hot, chapped lips can easily decrease your pogi points.

Lucky for you, Blackwater, Ever Bilena Cosmetic's personal grooming line, is offering a quick fix that can keep your lips safe. Yes, lip balm for men exists!

The new Blackwater Lip Balm for Men protects, deeply moisturizes, and smoothens the appearance of the lips. With its safe and effective ingredients, there's no need to worry about peeling, cracking, and itchiness. And since frequent exposure to the sun can have damaging effect to the lips, Blackwater Lip Balm for Men has SPF 20 for added protection from the outside environment.

Needleless to say, it works wonders! Apply a single layer of the lip balm with one swipe and the clear formula will instantly give you moisturized lips without the shine, color, and fragrance.

You can get it for Php 120 at all leading supermarkets, department stores, and drugstores nationwide. You can also shop online via Shopee and Lazada.

Make sure to follow @blackwaterphofficial on Facebook to get all the latest news and updates.

Popeyes brings the spice with new Cajun Rings

Another bestseller is on its way to excite Pinoy food lovers! After launching the US Spicy Chicken Sandwich that sold out just hours after its release, it looks like Popeyes is all set to release another trending food item in its menu.

It’s savory, spicy, crispy, and oh-so-delicious – Popeyes is letting you taste all that lip- smacking Southern goodness in one bite with its latest must-try offering! Give in to your cravings because Popeyes’ new Cajun Rings is finally here to complete your meal and tickle your taste buds.

Every bite of these perfectly crispy fried breaded onion rings with a hint of Cajun spice will leave you wanting more – surely, the perfect add-on to any meal. You can have it ala carte or as a side to your favorite Popeyes signature meals – Popeyes Chicken, Chicken Tenders, and Burgers.

If you want to give it a try, Popeyes is offering a FREE upgrade of Cajun Fries to Cajun Rings when you buy any Popeyes meal! So, hurry up and get first dibs on this special promo.

But it doesn't stop there. With the inclusion of the Cajun Rings in Popeyes’ menu, there are some things that you have yet to discover. Intrigued? Try saying "Put A Ring On It!" when you order dine-in or takeout for your Popeyes’ burger – U.S. Spicy Chicken Sandwich, the Chicken French Quarter, Fish Burger, Shrimp Burger, and Chicken Burger and you’ll be in for a delightful surprise.

So, what are you waiting for? The new Cajun Rings is now available at Popeyes Arcovia City, Alabang Town Center, NU Mall of Asia, SM San Lazaro, SM Manila, Kroma Tower, SM Southmall, Ali Mall, Eastwood, Robinsons Place Galleria Ortigas, Robinsons Place Manila, Eton Centris, and SM Mall of Asia.

You can also enjoy this special treat at home when you order Cajun Rings for delivery or pick up via www.centraldelivery.ph and GrabFood. You can also get exclusive deals on your Popeyes favorites when you download the Central Delivery and GrabFood app via the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.

For more information, visit www.popeyes.ph or follow @popeyesph on Facebook and Instagram.

Have you seen Datu Puti Vinegar in Selena Gomez’s kitchen?

Whenever you talk about Filipino food with anyone, especially outside the Philippines, chances are the
first thing that will come to mind is the legendary adobo. There are so many different variations you can
find in around the country, with every household having their own special take on what the best adobo
tastes like.

Everyone loves adobo, so much so that, over the years, our signature dish has been making quite an
impact around the world. Some restaurants in the US and Europe have been offering their own renditions of adobo. Popular American cable channel the Food Network even released several recipes of
adobo on their website.

In 2021, Filipino adobo returns to the spotlight once again. Iconic actress and pop artist Selena Gomez
has been spotted attempting to prepare Filipino adobo on the upcoming season of her cooking show
Selena + Chef. 

With the help of hotshot Filipino-Canadian celebrity chef Jordan Andino, Selena whips up some adobo using the iconic Filipino vinegar Datu Puti, which is displayed prominently on her kitchen countertop! The secret to a great adobo, after all, is the perfect balance of Datu Puti soy sauce and vinegar, flavours that Filipino condiment giant Nutriasia has been providing to every Filipino household for generations.

After seeing this trailer, Filipino fans are surely hyped up by the prospect of their idol cooking a quintessential Pinoy dish! Capture the most authentic, homemade goodness of adobo with brands that
Filipinos have loved and trusted for many years. Stack up your pantry with bottles of your favorite Datu
Puti vinegar and soy sauce, as well as other beloved NutriAsia brands, from your favorite supermarket
and grocery store!

The second season of Selena + Chef will premiere on the HBO Max streaming service on January 21.

LONGi supplies 100MW high-efficiency monocrystalline modules to the largest integrated wind and solar project in the Philippines

At 232MW, the project in Ilocos Norte Province is the largest integrated wind and solar power plant in the Philippines. LONGi was selected as the exclusive module supplier, delivering 100MW high efficiency monocrystalline solar panels.


The project, developed by Qingdao Zhongzi Zhongcheng Group Co., Ltd., started construction in March, 2017. The site is in a primeval forest in the region of Pasuquin. To ensure smooth delivery, Chen Jinliang, LONGi Logistics Manager and Bai Liwen, LONGi Solar Sales Manager visited the area many times to design the optimal transport scheme and build the roads to deliver the modules to the site. LONGi completed the supply of all modules in 2018 as planned.



“The 232MW project is the first large-scale wind and solar power integration project developed by Chinese enterprises in Philippines.” Lu Min, former President of Qingdao Hengshun Zhongsheng Group, said at the ceremony marking the start of construction work in Philippines. “The project is a new start for our group, we are willing to contribute to the national construction of the Philippines through successful overseas development experience.”



According to the news report, this integrated solar and wind project is the first large-scale project in the
energy sector of bilateral economic and trade cooperation after President Duterte;s visit to China in
December, 2016. It is also a major project by Chinese enterprises to respond to the ;Belt and Road; initiative.


LONGi, headquartered in Xi’an, China, focuses on manufacturing PV products and providing solar power technology solutions. Its product offerings range from wafers, cells, modules and PV solar power
equipment to solar power systems. The LONGi Group has evolved into a global company with assets of
approximately US$8.38 billion and more than US$4.65 billion in annual revenues in 2019.

5 commuting hacks in the new normal

With the holidays over, thousands of Filipinos are coming back from their hometowns or simply traveling to get to work.

If you are one of these commuters, please remember that the pandemic is not yet over, and strict health protocols are still in place. However, there are ways for you to be able to get to your destination safely. AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, is here to give you some tips on just that.

Prepare for cashless payments. Many transport services have implemented cashless paying schemes as a precautionary measure against the COVID-19 virus. For example, ride-hailing apps only accept bookings if you will pay through your e-wallet or credit or debit cards. Also, trains and some buses only allow passengers to ride if they have a reloadable contactless smart card. To avoid any hassle, make sure that you have the necessary apps and cards. But if you have to pay with cash, it’s best to prepare the exact amount to lessen physical contact.


Always bring your essentials. When you take public transportation, you may be at risk and be exposed to many strangers. Remember to always protect yourself by properly wearing your face mask and face shield. It’s also best to bring a spray bottle of alcohol and a pack of sanitary wipes to not only clean your hands, but to also sanitize handrails, windows, and other surfaces in a public vehicle.

Check required travel documents. Since regions in the country are under different levels of quarantine, some places may have stricter policies and health measures than others. This means that some cities may require you to present certain documents prior to entry. These may include a travel pass issued by municipal offices or city chief of police, medical certificate, company ID, and a negative RT-PCR result. Because of this, make sure to do your research before traveling and prepare whatever is necessary.

Keep yourself entertained. If you’re going to ride the train, a bus, or a van service, expect the lines to be long. Since these modes of transportation can’t operate at full capacity, you probably have to wait in line for a long time. So, fight the boredom and frustration by keeping yourself entertained. Before you leave the house, you can download movies or a television series that you can binge-watch on your phone as you wait in line. You can also create a music playlist, listen to podcasts, install new games, or bring a pocketbook to help you pass the time.

Avoid talking and eating. When in public transportation, refrain from talking or eating as this will require you to open your mouth or take off your mask. Conversations can wait until you are indoors and no longer around strangers. Likewise, make sure that you eat before you leave the house so that you won’t get hungry while travelling.

Have an emergency contact. When you’re on the road, regardless if you are commuting or riding a private car, it’s best to have someone to reach out to in case of emergencies. To help with this, AXA Philippines has Rescue Line, a special service accessible through the Emma by AXA app that provides 24/7 free access to emergency response such as roadside assistance, police, and ambulance anytime, anywhere. With just a few taps, professional help may be requested, and your loved ones will be
simultaneously notified of your emergency situation and current location. 

What's more, AXA has also enhanced its emergency response services with Rescue Line’s geotag
feature which can help pinpoint your location faster and more accurately. You may download Emma by AXA via App Store and Google Play and register or create your account, even if you are not yet an AXA insurance policyholder.

For more information about AXA Rescue Line, visit https://axa.com.ph/rescue-line.

Allianz Begins Eight-Year Worldwide Olympic & Paralympic Partnership

Allianz officially began its eight-year worldwide partnership with the Olympic & Paralympic Movements on Jan. 1, building on a collaboration with the Paralympic Movement since 2006.

“Allianz is proud to be the „Worldwide Insurance Partner” of the Olympic & Paralympic
Movements,” said Oliver Bäte, Chief Executive Officer of Allianz SE. “As a supporter of the sports ecosystem and through shared core values of excellence, friendship, inclusion and respect, Allianz and our 148,000 employees and 100,000 agents are excited to care and deliver for athletes, their families and their ambitions.”

Since announcing the partnership in September 2018, the insurer has engaged fans, athletes, teams and employees through health across four pilot markets – Australia, China, France and Spain. Allianz presented the Australian Olympic Committee’s Wellbeing Week to showcase ways to improve mental health. Allianz also worked with the Organizing Committee Olympic Games Paris 2024 to encourage people to walk and run for “Club Paris 2024”, an initiative to move and be part of the Games.

Allianz will expand local initiatives to connect with athletes and fans across the world. To name a few, the global insurer will offer consumers and employees the chance to take part in the Olympic Torch Relay at Beijing 2022 and will engage youth with the spirit & values of the Movements at its Allianz Sports Camps through trying sports, building friendships and learning from athletes. Furthermore, it will support the Movements with tailored insurance solutions and services.

“Having announced this new agreement in 2018, our teams have already been working together in key pilot markets to support athletes and the Olympic Movement,” said IOC President Thomas Bach. “As we start this new Olympic year, we are excited to begin in earnest our global collaboration with Allianz.”

“Allianz brings global visibility to the athletes and values of the Paralympic Movement and we look forward to our next phase working together,” added IPC President Andrew Parsons.

The partnership runs from 2021-2028. More details can be found on Allianz’s website .