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Kick off summer with SM Supermall’s fun activities

As summer kicks off, SM Supermalls is inviting all parents to make the summer break more fun and exciting for kids and the whole family with exciting activities and workshops in 68 SM malls across the country!

Summer fun begins at SM with Summer Takeover workshops so kids can have fun, learn, and make friends this season! Happening until June 3, the interactive workshops include artistic fun workshops on arts and crafts, painting, drawing, and fashion design lessons; entertainment workshops with modeling, music, dancing and theater acting classes; explorers workshops which offer culinary, visual reality and interactive games, and photography; and sports workshops on basketball, taekwondo or martial arts, archery, and golf.

Mallgoers can also relax at SM’s Summer Chillin’ on weekends of April and May. Featuring the country’s well-loved OPM bands and artists, the musical performances are set to treat customers with delightful summer experiences – complete with live art and a food bazaar!

There is also the Summer Fun Run every weekends of April and May where customers can get active and spend time with loved ones.

Another must-try experience is Summertacular Emoji Balloons Photowall, powered by Vivo, until May 31, where customers snap and show off their summer feels at SM!

As part of the #LetsPlayNowAtSM campaign, customers can download the SM Mobile App to enjoy loads of fun summer games to get instant freebies and giveaways! For more about SM’s Summer Fun, visit www.smsupermalls.com.

Don’t forget to experience summer fun at SM with new and educational activities for the whole family this season!

For updates and exclusive news about SM Supermalls, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM’s official social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; and get an insider access to all the fun happenings at SM Supermalls nationwide through SM’s Viber Public Chat. Tweet your thoughts, upload and share your photos about your memorable moments at SM, then use its official hashtag #EverythingsHereAtSM.

Acer Philippines: Breaking the industry norm

The technology industry is one of the fastest growing businesses of today. However, despite being an industry that thrives on its progressive nature, the world of innovation continues to be a man’s world.

In the recent statistics reported by Statista, percentage of female employees in the workforce of major tech companies in the United States, range from 43% to 26%, a number significantly lower compared with the labor force that comprises of 46.8% of women. Veering away from the trend of these companies, Acer Philippines helps women break the glass ceiling and champions success.

According to Sue Ong, Sales and Marketing Director of Acer Philippines “To be working in a company whose mission is to break barriers between technology and people, Acer believes that it starts with giving people equal opportunities. It recognizes that diversity is an asset in a male-dominated industry that Acer hopes to level the playing field for the women in our company.”

Beyond the numbers game or the proportion of men and women in an office, gender diversity is present when women are encouraged to lead. When a company is allowing women to spur to leadership positions and they can influence change, equality exists. Harvey Nash and KPMG’s recent global study of IT leadership showed that the number of women in senior roles was extraordinarily low at just 9%.

“Working for 9 years with Acer, I’ve seen many women leaders make their mark in the company, and in turn, in the industry. This is because Acer provides a solid training ground, vast opportunities to learn, and superior tools that can equip its employees to create their own platform for where they can excel,” explains Ong.

Creating a venue for excellence does not only start in the workplace, as Acer believes it is also important to empower the future gamechangers in the industry. With the great need of representation of women in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), the company finds value in continuously encourage students to take their place in the industry.

“We’ve had several dialogues with our partner schools on how we can support the students in making them realize they have a future in the tech industry. We believe there is an untapped potential in these young women, and we hope to continue paving the way for them whether it’s through our seminars in or through our technology. Our technology has been used as tools to educate young minds and we hope to continue demonstrating that young women have the potential to lead the industry one day.”

The industry has a long way to go in providing more opportunities for women. Lowering the gender parity in the tech industry can convince women, both locally and globally, to take a more active role in designing, creating and sharing diverse solutions that will revolutionize the field. Acer Philippines believes it starts with empowering one woman at a time.

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is now one of the world’s top ICT companies and has a presence in over 160 countries. As Acer looks into the future, it is focused on enabling a world where hardware, software and services will fuse with one another to open up new possibilities for consumers and businesses alike. From service-oriented technologies to the Internet of Things to gaming and virtual reality, Acer’s 7,000+ employees are dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale, and support of products and solutions that break barriers between people and technology. Please visit www.acer.com for more information.

Microsoft draws over 900+ delegates in the first ever Azure Summit in the Philippines

(from L-R) Microsoft Philippines COO Christian Lim, James Indino – VP-IT of Philcare, Marian Lontoc – IT Sales Director – Crayon, Andres Valencia – Global VP of ISV and Verticals, Crayon, Dir Angel Magtalas – ICTSS, Dept of Budget and Management, and Microsoft Philippines Managing Director Hans Bayaborda.

Microsoft Philippines recently showcased how Microsoft Azure services enables organizations to: open new possibilities, accelerate innovation, future proof their business, and stay compliant and secure. Several Microsoft partners and clients – including Crayon, Philcare, and the Department of Budget and Management – shared their own stories of, and insight into digital transformation (DT).

Attendees also heard from several Microsoft executives who shared actionable insights from their latest DT study. Microsoft also gave a glimpse of what to expect from Azure as they help organizations navigate their Digital Transformation journeys. Hans Bayaborda, Microsoft Philippines Country Manager, even gave a glimpse of Microsoft’s own inspiring DT journey as a company.

The first ever Azure Summit in the Philippines was given a warm Filipino welcome as it was attended by over 900+ IT/Data Pros delegates, eager to see how organizations are using technology to change the game. Microsoft also gave away 25 Azure certifications to enable even more organizations through the cloud.

JobStreet.com and TIP host the 3rd Philippine Engineering Student Congress

JobStreet.com, the largest job site in the country, together with the Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP) held the 3rd Philippine Engineering Student Congress at the Quezon City campus of the university.

The event brought together graduating engineering students from all over Luzon in a venue where they could explore potential careers and learn about the profession they would soon enter.

In attendance were 30 companies, including Coca-Cola FEMSA, Department of Energy (DOE), Filinvest Land Inc., Ginebra San Miguel, Meralco, Uratex Foam, AMMEX I-Support Corp, and Emerson Electric, among others.

Companies provided talks about the future that awaits engineering graduates, and showcased career paths that they could take.

The Congress was launched by opening remarks from TIP President Dr. Elizabeth Quirino-Lahoz. Speakers included JobStreet.com Country Manager Philip Gioca, Padilla Review Center President Engr. Perfecto Padilla, Jr., and representatives from various companies.

Aside from the talks, there was also a Personality Development Session for students, a motivational talk, a quiz bee, and a presentation of project papers by T.I.P. Career Center students.

According to Mr. Gioca, engineering-related professions are among the top 10 most advertised and most in-demand specializations year-on-year for both local and overseas jobs posted on JobStreet.com.

The Congress has been held annually since 2016 to inspire graduating students in preparing them for the career journey ahead, whether it be in the country or abroad.

True love from a different perspective

When talks about relationship is brought up, it is always the woman that has a say on things. What is right, what should be done, what should not be done, and everything in between. But what if we ask a man what is his take about a relationship, specifically a male doctor, what would he say? Let’s finds out Dr. Paolo Bellosillo’s thoughts about finding true love.

Dr. Paolo Bellosillo thinks that finding true love is as easy as the quote: “by the fruits you shall and will know.

You can see. You can feel and you can discern.

It’s like you, telling your partner, your husband or wife, fiancée, boyfriend or girlfriend that you’re thirsty. Instead of coming back with water he or she gives you Halo Halo or perhaps red bean ice cream. When those kind acts pile up they go a long way.

But you see true love is also about acceptance when you have seen the worse in one another but continue to accept and admit ones mistakes, learn from it, desire not to repeat it… well it doesn’t end there, it is when you know you have got to say, convey and show you are “Sorry”.

Acceptance would show true love when you have begun seeing and saying you are sorry and when you expand it into practice and living it out with sincerity. Sincerity in a “Sorry” can actually help one another grow because words with action keep you on track to where you both should be, a happy couple fit for a happy family.

True Love is knowing we are not perfect but accepting that we should always make room for change and growth for the best of the relationship. It is when one begins to detach himself/herself from habits, attitudes and the like of the past where effort is much needed but because of love and its name one decides to open for change for the better.

True Love is love that is faithful, honest, sincere, kind and not a mere dash of perceived look at one for satisfying ones need or complying with a function. It is not pleasurable, for you will know In Your Eyes and in God’s eyes and her/his eyes, This Is It and You’ll Never Be The Same. When two become one despite the differences because there, love had bridged a gap that time and space cannot separate, that’s true love.”

Any woman will definitely be lucky to marry a man who thinks about love this way. We hope that men all over see love and define love the same way.

What is Crystal White Skin Supplement Antioxidant and Glutathione, and what makes it better?

– It’s the vitamins for your skin you never knew you needed.

– It is the only SKIN SUPPLEMENT that has a lot of health benefits while at the same time serves as antioxidant and whitening.

o It can help regulate bowel movement. (aids in constipation)

o Helps give you a better sleep.

o Helps in giving you a toned body because it can help burn fats. (resveratrol)

o It protect your cells from being damage due to sun exposure. (Grapeseed).

o It interferes with tyrosine in releasing dark pigment in your skin. (L-cystein)

– It contains seven (7) (mostly organic) ingredients to help your skin achieve its full potential,

leaving your skin healthy, vibrant and glowing.

– It’s made in tablet form to avoid the risk of residues and for faster absorption.

– Its active ingredient is a converted form of Glutathione for faster results.

– It is made in Japan.

– One tablet is 250mg, and must be taken 3 tablets a day.

– Must be taken after meal, and preferably after breakfast.

– Results can be seen after 2 weeks to a month of use depending on your skin’s way of reacting.

What are the Benefits and Contraindications?

1. L-CYSTEIN – provides function for melanin. ( this is the converted form of Glutathione)

L-cystein supplements must not be taken in combination with intake of cyclophosphamide,

prednisone, azathioprine, isosorbide, and nitroglycerin and in diagnosed cystinuria.

2. HITHIONE GLUTATHIONE – Antioxidant and skin lightening that reduces biological oxidation.

3. VITAMIN C – Most potent antioxidant that protects the body from immune system deficiencies,cardiovascular disease and acts as skin whitening.

4. GRAPESEED EXTRACT- Abundant in Vitamin C which makes skin resilient and regulates/activates metabolism function of the skin. It also reduces inflammation, stabilizes collagen and elastin and

acts as natural antihistamine in the protection and healing of connective tissue.

5. Resveratrol- has strong anti-oxidant effect as anti-aging.

Must not be combined with Warfarin, Heparin, antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel,

dipyridamole.

6. Polygonatum Odoratum – Powerful anti-oxidant effects as whitening

7. Saxifraga Stonolifera – contains arbutin which is well known for its melanin degradation action.

Arbutin as whitening effectively reduces existing pigmentation

FACTS ABOUT GLUTATHIONE AND SKIN SUPPLEMENTS

SKIN SUPPLEMENTS

– Are products that are not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease.

– It is not a substitute for treatment for specific medical conditions.

GLUTATHIONE

– Often referred to as “Mother of all anti-oxidants”

– Protects against chronic oxidative stress that can cause cancer, neurodegeneration and range of

other diseases.

– Replenishing glutathione levels can slow the aging process.

ADDITIONAL INFO.

1. Crystal white is currently in need of an ambassador and ambassadress for the brand. He &

She should epitomize the beauty that this product may bring. Not only this improves the

physical appearance but also helps in the improvement of emotional, and personal

wellbeing of oneself.

2. Crystal white is looking for distributors nationwide. Minimum order required is 10pcs for

P1,450.00 each. A dealer form should be accomplished to qualify.

3. SRP of Crystal White in the market is P1,950.00

4. The areas of distribution are all Dermcare and Belle La Peau branches and will soon launch

in some e commerce sites such as BeautyMNL, and Shopee.

5. Crystal White will soon launch its Crystal White Cream and Crystal White Glutathione soap

to complete the line.

Vivo unveils the all-new ‘V9’ AI-powered FullView™ display smartphone in the Philippines

Global smartphone brand Vivo has revealed its all-new sleek and stylish V9 flagship unit at the City of Dreams Manila in a summer-themed unveiling that was attended by over 200 members of the press and other guests.

Vivo welcomed its guests late Thursday afternoon at the Wave, a contemporary poolside deck, restaurant, and bar so they can experience the V9 and take selfies and photos with the sunset as their backdrop. Vivo then picked one lucky and creative photo posted on Instagram to win a V9 unit.

Vivo executives led by Brand Director Annie Lim answered some of the questions of the media during the V9 press launch.

The program continued at the City of Dreams Grand Ballroom with Myx VJ Ai dela Cruz as the host. They were formally welcomed by Vivo Brand Director Annie Lim who recapped the smartphone company’s feats in the Philippines. Since it entered the Philippine market in 2016, Vivo has been steadily rising to become the country’s top three brand with over 5,200 stores and 1.5 million users nationwide.

Vivo’s Jomari Morales followed Lim’s remarks by presenting all the goods on the V9. She highlighted the Vivo V9’s 90% screen-to-body ratio, the 24-megapixel selfie camera and 16MP+5MP dual read camera, and the AI-powered photography for a “perfect view” and a “perfect shot.”

Morales also presented the Vivo V9’s improved game mode that would enable users to take calls or open other apps without pausing the gaming applications or play without any interruptions.

After her presentation, Vivo’s Junior Brand Manager Christian Jocson revealed that anyone can enjoy a V9 for a “perfect” price of Php17,990 with pre-orders beginning on March 26 until April 2.

Lim, Morales, Jocson, and Xian Gana from Vivo then answered the media’s questions during the Q&A. Their exchanges were focused on the Vivo’s plans in the Philippines and the V9’s capabilities.

Vivo Brand Director Annie Lim acknowledged the smartphone brand’s partners, Ayala Malls and SM Supermalls, during the launch of the V9.

Vivo partners, Ayala Malls and SM Supermalls, were also recognized during the event during the ceremonial exchange of tokens. Lim handed the malls’ representatives with a Little V doll.

Fresh faces of Vivo

Vivo also welcomed its newest endorsers, up-and-coming actors Edward Barber and Ivan Dorschner.

Barber is the onscreen partner of young actress Maymay Entrata who also joined the event. Entrata was the first who joined Vivo in September 2017 during the launch of the V7+. His endorsement deal with Vivo is something MayWard fans have been patiently waiting for since the pair already worked together for the smartphone brand during their first Making Mega shoot in Germany last year.

Dorschner, meanwhile, charmed the press with his good looks and charisma. He was one of Kuya’s guests in Pinoy Big Brother in 2010. Since then, he became one of GMA Network’s top leading men after starring alongside young actress and fellow Vivo endorser Barbie Forteza in the primetime series “Meant To Be.”

Aside from the launch of the new flagship smartphone V9,Vivo also introduced its newest endorsers, Ivan Dorschner and Edward Barber.

Barber, Entrata, and Dorschner also picked three lucky winners of the Vivo V9 during the raffle. They also joined the Vivo executives for a toast for the V9. Also with them onstage were other Vivo endorsers young pop soul singer Sassa Dagdag, acoustic singer-songwriter TJ Monterde, and balladeer Jason James Dy who closed the night with their performances.

About Vivo

A global smartphone brand focused on introducing perfect sound quality and ultimate photography with cutting-edge technology, Vivo develops innovative and stylish products for young people. We now have over two hundred million users and are one of the preferred brands of young people around the world. As an Official Sponsor of the FIFA World Cup™, Vivo believes in the importance of encouraging young people to embrace self-expression and an energetic lifestyle.

For inquiries about Vivo, visit the Vivo website at www.vivo.com/ph or check out their Facebook
(https://www.facebook.com/VivoPhil), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/vivophil/), and
Twitter (https://twitter.com/vivo_phil) accounts.

The Natural Way to Feel More Empowered As a Woman

Gone are the days when the “male chauvinist” society had women as far inferior as men—very dependent and submissive to whatever the latter commanded. Women today are not just regarded as homemakers, but nation-builders as well. Beyond the confines of their houses, they, too, can make a big difference––be it in the economic, social or political arena.

From being a household queen to boardroom’s rockstar, women run on very hectic and active schedules everyday. So imagine the strength they have to withstand the daily grinds, not to mention the stress and pressure they have to endure just to fulfill the duties bestowed upon them.

Nevertheless, they’re no “Wonder Woman” at all, nor our very own heroine “Darna” so as not to feel exhausted and tired from chores or work. They’re also humans, who need to pause for a break from being the jack-of-all-trades.

This March—declared as International Women’s Month—is the best time to celebrate their power and influence with the gift of beauty and wellness that they truly deserve. What a better way to have it than a rosy, bouncy and shiny hair to begin with.

Because it is the mane that a person is mainly looked upon, it’s a conscious effort for everyone, especially women, to make it pleasant to gaze at. So a regular bottled shampoo and conditioner, plus treatment are, more often than not, the solutions to turn to, regardless of the bad effects they may cause.

Some of the harmful chemicals they contain are too much to handle, especially by as fragile as a hair follicle. Their main damage being mane breakage is hard to manage. Tricky it is to treat the resulting tress that’s less weak and elastic. Though negligible, other repercussions—allergic reaction and scalp irritation—also need keen attention and urgent solution.

Where else do women usually turn to for remedy than a beauty salon. After a pampering sesh, they may opt to avail any of their formulated solution for upkeep. For optimum results, it’s best to combine it with NOVUHAIR 3-in-1 pack to promote robust locks and scalp.

NOVUHAIR is the only tress growth product in the market containing 19 natural herbs, essential oils and co-factor nutrients working synergistically to help remedy mane problems from growth to vanishing. It deeply penetrates to help rejuvenate, nourish, maintain moisture in the scalp and hair, and improve the overall appearance of the tress. Lastly, it’s an effective and safe solution to arrest hair loss.

So come and celebrate womanhood at your favorite salon anytime this month. Much better if you can make it regularly to bond with your sisters or amigas over a hair spa or treatment. After all, your crowning glory deserves a second look.

Feel more empowered as a woman – order NOVUHAIR 3-in-1 pack online, get one (1) box of NOVUSKIN LIFT with 30 anti-aging tablets worth P2,970 for FREE at https://www.lazada.com.ph/novuhair-3-in-1-pack-plus-free-1-box-novuskin-lift-with-30-anti-aging-tablets-78553551.html?spm=a2o4l.searchlist.list.7.e391346fAMoFEh

For inquiries, call 413-6570 or 0922-8830575, visit NOVUHAIR Facebook Page (Novuhair Official) or website at www.novuhair.com.

STARTUP ENABLER QBO LAUNCHES QBO APP TO INDUSTRY PARTNERS, STARTUP PROFESSIONALS

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QBO Innovation Hub, the country’s first public-private initiative for startups, recently launched the QBO App, a virtual hub for startups all over the country. The QBO App has already garnered over 100 downloads on the Google Play Store. The app is also available for download on iOS.

The program was headlined by the top-tier leaders of QBO’s public and private partners and attended by over 200 guests from the startup ecosystem, including notable founders and entrepreneurs, mentors and investors, and representatives from various Technology Business Incubators (TBIs), startup enablers, incubators, and corporations.

The founding partners of QBO Innovation Hub, the country’s first public-private initiative for startups, were all present for QBO QNNECT: The QBO App Launch, the official unveiling of a virtual hub developed by QBO with the vision of Filipino startups changing the world. (From L-R: Secretary Fortunato “Boy” de la Peña, the Department of Science and Technology; Katrina Chan, Director, QBO; Assistant Secretary Rafaelita “Fita” Aldaba, the Department of Trade and Industry; Patricia Javier-Gutierrez, Executive Director and Head of Communications, J.P. Morgan; Diane Eustaquio, Executive Director, IdeaSpace Foundation Inc.; and Rene “Butch” Meily, President, QBO.)

Some notable guests included local startups like Cropital, Pushkart, and Tripkada. The event was also attended by top executives from QBO’s public and private partners, including Ola Almgren, United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); Chaye Cabal Revilla, CFO of Smart Communications, Inc.; Gil Chua, Chairman and CEO of DDB; and Monchito Ibrahim, Undersecretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

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The lineup of speakers at the launch included QBO’s founding partners, such as Secretary Fortunato dela Peña of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST); Assistant Secretary Rafaelita Aldaba of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); and Roberto Panlilio, Senior Country Officer of J.P. Morgan Philippines.Before the grand reveal at the QNNECT: The QBO App Launch, an unveiling of a virtual hub meant to unite and empower the local startup ecosystem, Rene “Butch” Meily, President of QBO Innovation Hub, the country’s first public-private initiative for startups, asks everyone to say “yes” to the future of Philippine startups.

The QBO App is a virtual hub or a digital space where startups and entrepreneurs can come together to connect and collaborate with other players in the startup ecosystem and contribute their own knowledge and information with the community. It is an extension of QBO’s on-ground efforts to unite and empower the local startup ecosystem to work towards the same vision of Filipino startups changing the world.

“QBO App’s prime purpose is to connect the dots in the local startup ecosystem, not just for startups in Metro Manila, but for Philippine startups, investors, and collaborators all over the world. It’s an avenue for Filipino startups’ ideas to move forward,” said Katrina Chan, Director, QBO.

Rapid growth
“What makes our platform so strong is that there are so many passionate and dedicated individuals in the startup ecosystem and this is the platform they’ll be using to connect with each other,” added Chan.

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The team of QBO Innovation Hub, the country’s first public-private initiative for startups, pose at the photo wall of their event, QNNECT: The QBO App Launch, the official unveiling of their app or virtual hub meant to unite and empower the Philippine startup ecosystem. (From L-R: Dominique Natividad, Content Specialist; Rosstyn Fallorina, Program Associate – Incubation; Natasha Bautista, Operations Head; Rene “Butch” Meily, President; Alea Ladaga, Program Associate – Community Growth; Adria Villaroya, Program Associate – Startup Development; Katrina Chan, Director; Talja Tupa, Intern; and River Strauss Jacob, Creative Associate)

“The app’s growth is a testament to the worthiness and effectiveness of its mission. It’s a more convenient and accessible way to stay on top of the startup ecosystem, whether you’re a founder, mentor, or investor. It’s also very appealing to some of the younger Millennials who seek to establish themselves in the startup industry, as it’s a user experience that they’re more familiar with,” said Rowena Cristina L. Guevara, DOST Undersecretary.

QNNECT, QLLABORTE, QNTRIBUTE

The QBO App is designed with the following functions in mind: QNNECT, QLLABORATE, AND QNTRIBUTE.

The app’s QNNECT feature allows founders to get in touch with other players in the industry and form partnerships. Through the app, mentors and investors can also discover new businesses and other potentially disruptive investments.

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Secretary Fortunato “Boy” de la Peña of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) delivering his welcoming remarks for the QBO App Launch, an initiative spearheaded by QBO and DOST as a way to unite the startup ecosystem, last March 1 at the City Garden Grand Hotel.

“One of the more important aspects of the QBO program as well as this new app is that it provides members with easier access to world-class mentors, business leaders, and other entrepreneurs who’ve thrived across industries. This collaborative environment and sharing of best practices builds and strengthens even further the local startup community,” said Patricia Anne Javier-Gutierrez, Head of Communications at J.P. Morgan.

The QLLABORATE function allows members to see what startup events, opportunities, and programs are happening when and where. Startups can also better collaborate with each other and reach out to special guests or speakers through the app’s ‘Groups’ feature. Members can also access relevant resources through the app, such as startup reports, government forms, powerpoint presentations from speakers, and other documents that are all downloadable exclusively in the app through the ‘Content’ function.

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The welcoming remarks of the QBO App Launch featuring Roberto L. Panlilio, the Managing Director and Senior Country Officer of J.P. Morgan, one of QBO’s founding partners.

Much like other social networking sites, the QBO app is also the perfect avenue to QNTRIBUTE. Startups can share news or push their products and services through the News function, where they can post videos, photos, links, or other startup-related content in a social media-like timeline.

How to download the app

The app can be found on either Google Play Store or the App Store. Search for “QBO Innovation Hub”. After downloading, register through e-mail, cellphone, or Facebook. Users will have to wait for their membershipapproval from the QBO team. Once approved, they can create their profiles and begin to QNNECT.

For more information about QBO, please visit www.qbo.com.ph.

No Contender Too Young Or Old For The Spartan Race

Age may play a role in good health and fitness, but the number alone doesn’t define athletic performance. In the spirit of International Women’s Day this March, three female contenders of the recent Spartan Race in Pampanga, show that conquering the world’s most grueling obstacle course isn’t about seniority or youthfulness—it’s about having a passion for health and the right attitude towards adversity that matter most to overcome any challenge.

Only a number

International Wellness Coach Edna Hearsey Cross testifies to the importance of nutrition, exercise, and mindset to achieving great health and overcoming the Spartan Race. About 33 years ago, Cross suffered a major car accident that left her with mobility issues and pain. Before her ordeal, she had struggled with weight gain during two pregnancies, and had been going to a community gym to get back in shape. The incident only made the struggle more difficult as she depended heavily on medication to lead a normal life.

Fortunately, a fellow mom at the gym introduced her to a nutrition program that helped her get back on track. Soon she healed and regained her strength. It was then that she began developing a taste for adventure: “After recovering and feeling great with no pain I thought I should put myself to the test. I became confident to give it a go and see how far I can go.”

Now at 63, Cross continues to dare herself by competing in marathons and going around the world to climb mountains. Her secret lies in doing regular exercises such as running, yoga, and Pilates, powered by a daily dietary regimen that keeps her energized. To ready herself for more demanding activities like the recent Spartan Race Age Category, she joins a fitness community for bootcamp and obstacle training. She also makes sure to do lots of burpees in case she’s unable to do an obstacle.

Starting it young

On the other end of the age spectrum, four-year-old Skylar Legayada simply lets her natural curiosity and eagerness to drive her enthusiasm for sporty activities. Along with other young participants, she signed up for the Kids Category in the recent Spartan Race for a chance to do what kids do best: play and make friends.

Skylar

With dreams of becoming like her favorite superhero, Wonder Woman, Legayada gets plenty of encouragement from her family to live an active lifestyle. Some of the exercises she likes doing with her parents include running and climbing the monkey bars or the A-frame at the playground. She also enjoys training with her aunt, who also joined the Spartan Race.

Challenging the self

The recent Spartan Race Sprint in Pampanga proved daunting with more than 25 obstacles across a stretch of 13 kilometers. For first runner-up Melba Vergara, getting through the mud, barbwire, and fire required more than physical conditioning and skill, but also iron mettle.

A seasoned runner in her 40s, Vergara knows that it’s the self that ultimately stands between the athlete and the finish line: “It is true that ‘age is just a number’, but it depends on every individual’s mindset. When competing, I don’t think that I’m older than my peers. Some of my elite competitors are only half my age, but to me that is not the barrier against the young ones. The only thing I know is that I have the heart and determination for it.”

Spartan Race Placers

With several Trifectas under her belt, Vergara prepares for tough events such as the Spartan Race by doing freerunning and bouldering. She also strives for moderation when it comes to her diet, listening to her body for what she needs and treating herself to dessert once in a while. Most importantly, during competitions, Vergara tells herself that she isn’t racing with anyone else but herself to keep her nerves calm and ready for the challenge ahead.

All about willpower

Like the three tough ladies above, every Spartan knows that strength of spirit on top of months of hard training is what pushes athletes to beat the odds—no matter their background, competitive experience, or physical limitation. This same tenacity is what every contender must learn to muster in Spartan: Ultimate Team Challenge, an American television show featuring a one-mile obstacle course inspired by the Spartan Race.

The Spartan: Ultimate Team Challenge gathers together some of the most hardened athletes in teams of five—two women, two men, and one Spartan elite—all of whom understand that age or training isn’t enough to win against obstacles designed to test mind and heart, as much as body.

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