Media

Medgate Philippines recognized with Healthcare Leadership Award15 August 2019

Stavros Athanasiou, President & Group Chief Financial Officer, Medgate Asia (left) and Chetan Wakalkar, Group Director, Indira Group of Institutes (right)

Medgate Philippines was recognized with the Healthcare Leadership Award by CMO Asia for its continuous innovation and providing accessible healthcare to millions of Filipinos. Medgate has been operating in the Philippines for 3 years and is partnered with best in class companies, such as Allianz, AXA, Generali, Intellicare (part of Fullerton Health), and many more.

“We at Medgate Philippines are very happy to see our efforts to provide accessible healthcare to Filipinos being singled out for excellence. Telemedicine saves time and reduces costs significantly for insurance companies, employers, and end users, while delivering high quality medical consultations.” Said Stavros Athanasiou, Medgate Philippines’ President.

Medgate offers 24/7 medical consultations with a highly skilled team of Filipino telemedical assistants and licensed physicians that may be reached through multiple touch points. Other features include laboratory results interpretations, issuance of e-treatment plans and e-prescriptions, and delivery of medicines.

Medgate was founded almost 20 years ago in Switzerland. Medgate is a leading international provider of telemedicine, with operations in Switzerland, the Middle East, India and the Philippines. It has forged partnerships with global organizations such as Swisscom, Mubadala and Aetna to bring its brand of telemedicine to the world.

CMO Asia is a premium forum that brings elite marketers, advertising, and creative honchos together. The program provides an intimate atmosphere for top marketing experts, organizations and advisors to recognize and reward excellence. CMO Asia was introduced in 2010 to plug a marketing community vacuum. This is a peer-to-peer networking body that seeks to link all marketers across industries on a common platform.

Your HOUSE to accessible quality health care15 August 2019

The biggest challenges that a Filipino families face are poverty and a lack of family planning. a lack of family planning and poverty. There are a lot of young adults who are trying to break free from their families’ long cycle of poverty. Filipinos are having a hard time surviving in such difficult conditions, and more and more are falling into extreme poverty. With this issue, Filipino parents can’t make enough money to support their families which in turn, children must be taken out of school to work in harsh conditions.

For hundreds of Filipino youth who are impoverished, abused, and trafficked, providing them with an education scholarship is not enough to give them a better life. HOUSE Foundation have made it their mission to educate, employ, and empower at-risk youth to give them a second start in life.

HELPING OURSELVES PROGRAM (HOP) by HOUSE Foundation is a unique curriculum that they were able to develop for over eight years. Their approach focuses on four pillars:

1. Academic Education

2. Values Education

3. Work Skills Training

4. Work Ethics Training

We are dedicated to contributing towards the betterment of the society. For every purchase of our Medgate Unlimited Plan, a percentage of proceeds will go to HOUSE Foundation to help fund many of its programs. With this, HOUSE foundation will be able to take in more young adults into their program and give them a brighter future. Here’s where all your money will go:

HOUSE foundation and Messy Bessy are also affiliated with one another. When you purchase a Messy Bessy product, all its proceeds go directly to HOUSE Foundation. They also welcome volunteers who would be interested in tutoring high school and college students in various subjects. You may contact HOUSE foundation through this number: (632)-844-5133.

A small effort comes a long way. Purchase a Medgate Unlimited Plan today to help the Filipino Youth by giving them a fighting chance at having a better future. Medgate is your HOUSE to accessible quality health care.

Family Planning Month01 August 2019

Annually, the month of August has been considered as the Family Planning Month. Family planning is the method of safely and effectively arranging the birth spacing of children, as well as the number of children desired in the family. Such planning is pertinent for Filipino families to attain a better quality of life.

To date, many Filipino families still lack access to modern family planning. In order to address the growing need for modern family planning, the Department of Health (DOH) developed the National Family Planning Program. The program aims to promote reproductive health and rights of Filipinos by giving them accessible information and services for safe, legal, and effective modern family planning methods. Examples of these methods include counseling, education, and contraception.

Aside from the basic interventions that the program provides, the National Family Planning Program also gives a great amount of importance to the health and well-being of mothers and their children, due to the risks that may accompany pregnancy. By providing mothers with information and services on family planning, problems such as unintended pregnancies, early childbearing, unsafe abortion, and death from early and late childbearing may be prevented. Ultimately, modern methods on family planning may decrease maternal deaths, infant deaths, teenage pregnancies, and induced abortion cases, which are problems currently rampant in the country.

Despite placing a great deal of importance to the health and well-being of women and children, family planning still encourages the participation of each member of the family in deciding their way of life that will suit their needs and health.

With proper Family Planning,

The mother can:

1. Quickly restore her strength after pregnancy and childbirth;

2. Prepare for each pregnancy;

3. Have more time for her family and herself; and

4. Have more time to take care of her children.

The father can:

1. Accumulate for the education and needs of his children; and

2. Have more time for his family

The baby and the children have more time for:

1. Breastfeeding;

2. Vaccination;

3. Proper nutrition;

4. Dental care;

5. Adequate education; and

6. Love and care

As mentioned earlier, one of the family planning methods include contraception. Such method is available at pharmacies at affordable rates; or at companies that provide contraceptives to their employees. Meanwhile, the cost of ligation, vasectomy or IUD assumptions - some basic forms of contraception - is covered by PhilHealth's benefit package. For more information about family planning, consult your doctor, nurse, or midwife at the clinic, health center or hospital nearest you.

Nutrition Month 201905 July 2019

Nutrition Month is a campaign held annually every July, as mandated by Presidential Decree no. 491, also known as the Nutrition Act of the Philippines. The National Nutrition Council (NNC) leads the observance of National Nutrition Month together with this year’s theme: "Kumain nang wasto at maging aktibo...push natin 'to!".

The objective of this campaign is to bring awareness among the Filipinos about the important role of nutrition to an individual's overall health and wellness and to promote the Philippine Plan of Action (PPAN) 2017-2022, which is to address malnutrition in the country. The PPAN 2017-2022 is a results-based plan of action to stem the progression and improve Filipino problems on nutrition such as wasting, stunting, micronutrient deficiencies and overweight and obesity.

The purpose of this campaign is to help everyone to become aware of the importance of having good nutrition and having a healthy eating plan. A healthy eating plan has been proven to provide numerous health benefits, such as reducing your risk of several chronic diseases, heart diseases, and keeping your body healthy.

In line with this year’s theme, we have assembled a few tips that can help you in getting a nutritious diet that promotes your overall health:

1. Eat fruits and vegetables. Eating a wide assortment of healthy whole foods like fruits and vegetables helps ensure that you get all of the health-promoting benefits that foods can offer.

2. Limit fast and processed foods. Processed foods undergo some form of processing before consumption. More highly, processed foods have generally undergone industrial processing and are often higher in energy and lower in micronutrients.

3. Portion Control. Control the size of your food by eating from a smaller plate. It has been proven that the size of your dinnerware can affect how much you eat. Eating from a large plate can make your portion look smaller, while eating from a small plate can make it look bigger.

4. Be active. Doing 150 minutes of physical activity weekly like walking, riding a bicycle, running and dancing raises your heart rate and helps you release lots of sweat, which flushes cholesterol out of the body.

Individuals can do this by being aware of how to eat a balanced diet and how to read nutrition facts labels.

Some of these tips will help you keep your portion sizes reasonable, while others will help you add nutrients to your diet or adapt to something new. When followed, they’ll have a big impact on making your overall diet healthier and more sustainable, without a huge change in your habits.

Country Bankers Insurance Group partners with Medgate01 July 2019

(From left) Eileen Enobal, Senior Assistant Vice President for Underwriting & Micro Insurance, Country Bankers Insurance Group;, Menchie Alcoran, Assistant Vice President for Marketing, Country Bankers Insurance Group; Luisito Bautista, Vice President for Marketing, Country Bankers Insurance Group; Geraldine Desiderio-Garcia, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Country Bankers Insurance Group; Stavros Athanasiou, President & Group Chief Financial Officer, Medgate Philippines; Juan Rabell Mendoza, Senior Assistant Vice President for Business Development, Country Bankers Insurance Group; Ronaldo Estrella, Country Manager, Medgate Philippines Ces Alinea, Vice President for Client Relations Management, Medgate Philippines.

Medgate, the leading telemedicine provider in the Philippines, announced today that it has partnered with Country Bankers Insurance Group (CBIG) to further expand its presence here in the country.

CBIG is composed of two companies - Country Bankers Life Insurance Corporation(CBLIC) and Country Bankers Insurance Corporation(CBIC), which provides life and non life insurance plans, respectively. CBIG traces its roots from the prestigious group of Rural Bankers hailing from all regions of the Philippines, founded by the late Don Jose E. Desiderio, Sr., and Don Alfredo L. Montelibano Sr., both well - known rural bankers, almost 60 years ago.

CBIG concentrated its main thrust in the countryside, servicing small business entrepreneurs, industrialists, farmers, fishermen, and many others who seldom have the opportunity to avail of insurance coverage.

"Partnering with Country Bankers Insurance Group to deliver telemedicine transformation will allow us to provide accessible health care for everyone." said Ronaldo Estrella, Medgate’s Country Manager. "Together, we can provide millions of Filipinos the best health care they can ask for."

True to their catchphrase, "Kapag Sigurado, Hindi Kabado", CBIG will bundle Medgate with their Classic Benefit, CB Kalinga and Alalay Sa Buhay (ASB) plans for life products and Personal Accident (PA) plan for non-life product, with options for limited or unlimited consultations.

On the other hand, Medgate offers high quality, convenient and confidential medical consultations over the phone. This means, that members have direct access to a qualified doctor for their daily health care needs, without visiting a clinic or a hospital. The Medgate Telemedicine Center, and the Medgate Partner Network integrate their work closely to guarantee comprehensive health care for the patient. All the doctors are licensed and certified to provide telemedicine consultations of the highest standard.

"We believe that the best way to reach and help more Filipinos is by partnering with a company who through the years, remained competitive with product innovations," Estrella added.

Medgate offers 24 / 7 medical consultation over the phone and has call back option for patients who want to schedule their consultation.Medgate has 24 / 7 telephone lines with multiple contact points and follows International guidelines and protocols followed by their specialist doctors.

By offering their products and services, Medgate, together with CBIG, will provide a new experience for Filipinos. They strive to give Filipinos innovative medical consultation that will help their well - being.

For more information, you may visit the following pages:

https://www.medgate.ph

https://www.countrybankers.com

Dengue Awareness Month03 June 2019

June was declared Dengue Awareness Month (Proclamation No. 1204) since 1998 to highlight how prevention and control of dengue would require collaborative efforts among national and local government agencies as well as private NGOs.

Dengue has been considered by Department of Health (DOH) as a year-round disease which incidents rises during rainy seasons. This is the fastest spreading insect-carrier disease in the world endemic in 100 countries. As per DOH, the goal of Dengue awareness month is to reduce the burden of dengue disease with an objective to reduce dengue morbidity by at least 25% by 2022.

Dengue is transmitted by the mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which are found throughout the world. It is a tropical disease caused by a virus carried these mosquitoes. This virus causes dengue fever, and there is no specific medicine or antibiotic to treat it. For typical dengue fever, the treatment is directed toward relief of the symptoms.

The virus can cause fever, headaches, rashes, and pain throughout the body. Symptoms may include:

1. High Fever

2. Severe headaches

3. Pain behind the eyes and in the joints, muscles and/or bones

4. Abdominal Pain

5. Bleeding (such a nosebleed, bleeding gums, or easy bruising, dark stools)

6. Rash over most of the body

7. Fatigue

8. Nausea

9. Vomiting

Sometimes, symptoms can be mild and can be mistaken for those of the flu or another viral infection. Symptoms of dengue fever are generally mild in younger children and those who have the disease for the first time. However, serious problems can develop. Severe dengue can be life-threatening within a few hours and often requires hospitalization.

The best way to prevent Dengue is avoiding mosquito bites. Let’s take necessary precautions by: Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, using insect repellent, and controlling mosquitoes by cleaning stagnant water inside and outside your home.

Controlling and preventing dengue fever are essential steps for keeping people healthy. Know the symptoms of Dengue by asking specialist doctors from Medgate, anywhere, anytime.

Road Safety Month06 May 2019

Presidential Proclamation No. 115-A declares the month of May as Road Safety Month to promote road safety and raise awareness about hazards we can encounter while driving and commuting. Road safety is vital to us.

In Metro Manila, most traffic crash happen in Quezon City, Manila, and Makati since these are the busiest cities we have in the metro. A lot of people lose their life or get injured in road accidents due to the lack of awareness about traffic rules and the behavior of disregarding them. In order to lessen the traffic accidents, awareness to traffic rules is imperative.

Remember to:

1. Check your vehicles regularly.

2. Know your routes before going on a trip.

3. Don’t text while driving.

4. Don’t speed.

5. Always use seat belts

6. And most especially, remember the acronym BLOWBAGETS

At Medgate, you can consult with a specialist doctor trained in telemedicine wherever you are. If you’re not feeling well during your trip or while on the road, never hesitate to look out for your health and Call Doc! We are open 24/7 to give you hassle-free consultations, anywhere, anytime…not just while driving.

Celebrating World Health Day 201904 April 2019

World Health Day is fast approaching. This event is meant to raise awareness and for the improvement of global health. Below are the things you need to know for this occasion.

What is World Health Day?

World Health Day is celebrated annually every 7th day of April. It’s objective is to raise awareness and address the diseases that may impact the population. Every year, the World Health Organization (WHO) chooses a specific health-related theme that will focus on in-media campaigns all year long.

For 2019, the theme for World Health Day is Universal Health Coverage: Everyone, Everywhere.

Universal Health means that people have access to comprehensive quality health care, without any kind of discrimination, whenever, wherever. It’s not just guaranteeing that everyone is covered, it’s also ensuring them that they have access to health care anytime they need them.

It is possible to handle and tackle every task when the person has good health to address all the activities; one’s well-being is paramount to achieve all the activities accurately without any problem.

Having knowledge to certain diseases a person has is one, but having access to a remedy is another. Everyone has a part to play - it’s time to do yours! Spark the conversation and contribute to the advocacy that may help the world achieve universal health.

In Medgate, we aim to provide accessible healthcare to everyone all over the country with 24/7 consultation to Filipino doctors using your phones. Get your hassle-free medical consultation now and receive the care you deserve!

Download the app to learn more: https://bit.ly/2UUURuz

Have you had your Cervical Cancer Vaccine?04 March 2019

Cervical Cancer has taken the lives of numerous women around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer in women. In 2018, cervical cancer had approximately 570,000 new cases. The mortality rate is staggering – 90% of patients in low and middle income countries die.

According to the Philippines’ Department of Health, cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer amongst women with roughly 7,277 new cases with 3,807 deaths expected to occur each year.

The Human Papiloma Virus (HPV) is the primary cause of Cervical cancer.

HPV is commonly acquired through sexual intercourse, but in some rare instances, HPV can also be acquired through other means.

Most patients with cervical patients have had some, or a combination of the following:

• Multiple sexual partners

• Sexual partner/s (regular or casual) who themselves had several sexual partners

• Sexual partner/s who is infected with human papilloma virus

• First sexual intercourse at a very early age, possibly 15 or 16 years old

Watch out for these symptoms

• Irregular, intermenstrual (between periods) or abnormal vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse

• Back, leg or pelvic pain

• Fatigue

• Weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Vaginal discomfort or odorous discharge

• A single swollen leg

How do we prevent Cervical Cancer?

• See your Doctor. The first step is to have a regular check-up with your gynecologist who will most likely do a Papanicolaou smear or more commonly known as Pap smear/ test. A Pap smear is a procedure to test for cervical cancer. It involves the collection of cells from your cervix for analysis. Early detection is the key to survival. Most of the medical organizations suggest that women should have a Pap smear at the age of 21.

• Vaccine. Getting an HPV vaccine is another option for cervical cancer prevention. Vaccine is most effective before a girl becomes sexually active

• Practice safe sex. It’s best if you are always protected. Condoms are proven effective in reducing the risk of cervical cancer.

• Don’t smoke. Smoking has never been good for anyone’s health. Smoking and HPV predisposes a woman to cervical cancer.

When in doubt, it is still best to consult your doctor. Always remember prevention is better than cure. For any health concerns, you may call Medgate doctors 24/7, even on holidays.

How's your heart?06 February 2019

Have you had a heart check-up lately? The cheesiest lines from your favorite movie may not be enough for a heart in the pinkest of health. Don’t miss out on the chance of prolonging your life and enjoy spending quality time with your family and friends According to the World Health Organization (WHO), ”Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) take the lives of 17.9 million people every year, 31% of all global deaths.”. Some of the factors that trigger CVDs are the use of tobacco, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol consumption.

If you are one of those people who consumes 1-2 packs of cigarettes a day, consumes big, oily, fatty burgers with French fries on the side and hates walking or running, drinks alcohol at parties from dusk ’til dawn, then you’re a prime candidate to become cardio vascular disease patient. It’s not too late. Change your lifestyle, now!.

Here are some helpful tips from "Mayo Clinic Healthy Heart for Life!" .

Eat 5. “Can’t eat that…”, “Nope, can’t eat that either”. Stop worrying about the food you can’t eat. Focus, instead on having at least five servings of fruits and vegetables in your meals. Fruits and vegetables are also good to munch on, in between meals. Just focus on consuming more fruits and vegetables, rather that those you are forbidden to eat.

Move 10. Add at least 10 minutes of physical activity on top of what you’re doing every day. Studies have shown that a 30-minute (or more) physical movement a day can do wonders in preventing Cardiovascular Diseases. Fact is, a 10-minute walk or run or stair climbing is a small commitment that would make a huge difference in your life. But of course, always seek clearance from your doctor if you can do such activities.

Sleep 8. Remember when we’re kids, our parents would force us to sleep to keep us healthy? Welcome to the adult world where sleep is a reward and not a punishment. Do you remember your parents telling you to turn off the TV while watching your favorite cartoon because you need to get at least 8 hours of sleep? Yes, that’s right. You wish that’s the case now. In today’s fast-paced environment, It may be difficult to get that elusive 8-hour sleep cycle, but it’s important that we exert conscious efforts to do so. According to Mayo Clinic, “each person's sleep needs vary slightly, but eight is a good number to shoot for.”.

Want to know more about how to be careful with your heart? Call Megdate’s friendly Filipino doctors any time of the day or night, for more information. Medgate, giving you the care your deserve.

Medgate joins forces with RHÖN-KLINIKUM AG to enter the German market for telemedicine – Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint company with RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG has been signed.10 January 2019

• Medgate and RHÖN-KLINIKUM AG sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on extensive collaboration in the growing telemedicine market

• Foundation of Medgate Germany, in which RHÖN-KLINIKUM AG will hold a majority of 51 percent; Medgate's stake will be 49 percent

• Medgate Germany will offer digital medical consultations via video or phone with a smartphone app for easy, fast, personal and digital access to doctors

The transaction also complements RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG's cross-sector campus concept, which combines outpatient and inpatient services such as preventive care, aftercare, treatment, rehabilitation and nursing, and now offers a pre-existing telemedicine treatment program

• Medgate and RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG are jointly examining interests in Medgate Holding AG(which represents Medgate’s international activities) and / or one of its subsidiaries, or the possible foundation of another joint company with RHÖNKLINIKUM AG

Under the agreement, Medgate plans to provide telemedicine and digital medical services in Germany.According to the memorandum of understanding, RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG intends to acquire a 51 percent stake in the new company("Medgate Germany") based in Germany.

In future, patients with urgent or general medical concerns will receive advice and treatment by phone, Internet or video link from Medgate Germany (powered by RHÖN - KLINIKUM) in the framework of the legal regulations in force in Germany.Among other things, Medgate Germany wants to help to close the increasing gaps in medical care, especially in rural areas, and to offer up - to - date medical services in line with modern consumer behavior.The technical requirements, such as a smartphone or a computer equipped with a camera, are already available in most households. These advanced services address the requirements of an increasingly digital society and its needs for efficient, convenient and above all, rapid health care wherever patients are located.

Medgate Germany aims for market leadership

With Medgate Germany, the two companies are aiming for market leadership in the area of telemedicine and digital medical services in the Federal Republic of Germany.Medgate is pleased to have found an established partner in RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG for its market entry in Germany.Dr.Andy Fischer, CEO of Medgate said: "We share the vision of developing efficient and high-quality healthcare concepts thanks to digital resources, and making them accessible for the long term to all persons with health insurance in Germany. The potential in Germany is huge. In Switzerland, almost every resident with health insurance has access to telemedicine services and these services are used frequently. The new legislative situation now makes a similar development possible in Germany as well. RHÖN-KLINIKUM AG is the ideal partner for such an innovation project", according to Fischer.

Stephan Holzinger, CEO of RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG said: "Medgate Germany - powered by RHÖNKLINIKUM - has the potential to become a significant additional business for our company. As a leading innovator in healthcare, we already offer telemedicine services. With Medgate Germany, we will expand these services significantly and continue the digital transformation of RHÖNKLINIKUM AG that I initiated. We are taking advantage of the opportunities offered by digitization to provide patients with excellent medical services that will save them from long journeys and unnecessary waiting times, and make medical consultations, diagnoses and treatment faster, more convenient and better in quality. Of course, we will continue to be a broad-based, highquality hospital group - but with these telemedicine services, we are adding considerable value to our supply chain. With Medgate, we have found an experienced partner that shares our requirements for high quality and safety in telemedicine services."

Relaxing the ban on remote treatment increases the demand for telemedicine

Medgate and RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG are convinced that with the gradual relaxation of the ban on remote treatment, the demand for such services will increase significantly in Germany in the years to come.In May 2018, the German Medical Assembly(annual meeting of the German Medical Association) approved an amendment to the(model) professional code for physicians working in Germany, and relaxed the previous legal prohibition of exclusive remote treatment.Many federal states have since followed.

In addition to the founding of Medgate Germany, RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG’s stake in Medgate Holding AG and / or one of its subsidiaries will be examined, or the founding of another joint company in which the intellectual property and know - how necessary for the services of Medgate Germany will be bundled and developed further; the necessary IT solutions will also be realized.

Media contact

Cédric Berset, Director Marketing, Communications &Sales

Medgate, Postfach, 4020 Basel

Phone + 41 61 377 88 10, Mobile + 41 79 455 20 41, Fax + 41 61 377 88 20

media@medgate.ch, www.medgate.ch

About Medgate

Medgate uses digital healthcare solutions to bring the doctor to where he or she is needed.The focus is on the well - being of the patient and the benefits for society.Medgate was founded in 1999 and currently has more than 330 employees in Switzerland, including more than 100 physicians.Medgate has operated its Tele Clinic since 2000.This is now the largest telemedicine center in Europe, and has considerable experience and expertise in the field of telemedicine.For local consultations, Medgate’s patients can attend the Medgate Mini Clinics, as well as the doctors and clinics in Medgate’s partner network.In addition, Medgate successfully exports its concept to other countries, and has a presence in diverse locations such as the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, India and Slovakia.

About RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG

RHÖN - KLINIKUM AG is one of the largest healthcare providers in Germany.The clinic group provides excellent medical care with direct links to universities and research institutes.More than 830, 000 patients are treated annually by about 16, 700 employees at five locations: Zentralklinik Bad Berka, Campus Bad Neustadt, Klinikum Frankfurt(Oder), Universitätsklinikum Giessen and Universitätsklinikum Marburg.With its RHÖN Campus plan, the company is currently implementing a novel and pioneering project that raises cross - sector medical care in rural areas to a new level of excellence and is geared to the growing needs of patients.

www.rhoen-klinikum-ag.com

How to eat after the Holidays05 January 2019

It’s that time of the year when we feast on mouth-watering meals. Christmas parties, birthdays and year-end celebrations are but a few reasons to eat. We are supposed to be enjoying each and every bite however, you are thinking about the holiday pounds you’ll potentially gain. Worry no more!Allow yourself to indulge and satisfy your cravings without putting on that extra weight. Here are some tips to cleanse and rid your body of unwanted elements , especially after the holiday feasts.

1. Savor it

Food restriction, in some instances, can back fire and may lead to overeating. According to Mayo Clinic , “The more you enjoy the food you eat, the greater the likelihood that you'll be satisfied with less.”

2. Focus on portions

Avoiding your mother’s signature dish will be hard to do especially if it’s sinigang or adobo or caldereta. Instead of going through an agonizing ordeal, just keep in mind the amount of food you’re munching. Small frequent meals are often far better than full size or considerably huge portions in one go. Eat what you like but take small portions . That’s the key.

3. Keep it simple

Set realistic goals. Include exercise at least once or twice a week in your busy calendar. Easy, right? . If you have the means, go to the gym or better yet, create your own routine at home. Lessening, if not totally eliminating sweet products or your favorite soda, would be helpful as well.

4. Incorporate movement

Instead of just surfing the web, why not play that video and make some cool moves to get you going. Or how about a 30-minute walk in the park with your pet. These could help you burn some calories. Who knows? You might just find a friend or two.

5. Reflect and repeat

Consistency is what you need. Stick to your goals and never let anything or anyone get in the way. A good way of monitoring your progress is documenting your activities and improvements. It will help you distinguish which activity best fits you so you’ll know which ones to do over and over again.

But before you do any modifications to your current physical activity and food intake, it’s still best to consult a specialist. Medgate has friendly Filipino doctors for any health concerns. They are available 24/7, so you can call them any time. What are you waiting for? Pick up that phone, call Medgate and enjoy your holiday food trip – minus the worry.

Why bananas?11 December 2018

Still remember your parents asking you to eat bananas whenever you have an upset stomach? You have probably asked yourself, “why bananas?”.. You may also be wondering why many people include bananas in their daily dietary intake. Banana is a well-loved fruit. It’s readily available almost anywhere in the world. We love its colors as well as its taste. As an added bonus, Bananas give us 10-12% of our daily fiber needs.

According to Ritika Samaddar, regional head, dietetics, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, New Delhi says, “One medium banana delivers just 100 calories and is loaded with a particular kind of fiber called resistant starch (RS), which not just fills you up, but also keeps those damaging cravings away, boosts your metabolism, and keeps constipation at bay too.”

Some of the vitamins bananas contain are vitamin B6, which help produce red blood cells and vitamin C, an important vitamin group that supports brain health. Vitamin C also produces serotonin, known as “happy chemical”.

Pratima Mishra, clinical nutritionist, Columbia Asia Hospital, Ahmedabad say “Bananas are a happy fruit as they have tryptophan, which gets converted into serotonin in the body, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.”

So, if in case you are stressed and grumpy, worry not. Bananas are your happy and healthy alternatives to chocolates that give you natural sugars like sucrose, fructose and glucose that can liven up your day.

Bananas varies from unripe , ripe or fully brown bananas and choosing what’s best for your will depend on your health needs and preference. Here are some quick tips for you.

Underripe banana

-less sugar

-good for people with diabetes

Over ripe bananas

-easier to digest

-better for people with indigestion problem

Fully brown bananas

-full of antioxidants

One word of caution though: We need to take into consideration bananas have high potassium content and will not be good for people with medical conditions.

To know which specific medical conditions to look out for or for any health concerns, you can always talk to Medgate’s doctors, available for you 24/7.

Want to boost your health? Travel!08 November 2018

If laughter is the best medicine, travelling could not be that far behind. When’s the last time you travelled? No, no, no. Not business travels. Let’s talk about the type where you literally disconnect from your work and get away from life’s vicious cycle called, “routine”. Now, if you can combine travelling and laughter, then you’re a winner. Let’s look at some health benefits travelling can give you.

Travelling makes you healthier.

Experts say that travelling is good for your health. This is according to the Global Commission on Aging and Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, in partnership with the U.S. Travel Association. They conducted a research and concluded that travelling has a wide array of health benefits. Something that would rival mental exercises such as puzzles, in terms of physical and cognitive development. According to the study, the benefits are both immediate and long term.

1. After only a day or two, 89% of respondents saw significant drops in stress.

2. Women who vacationed every six years or less had a significantly higher risk of developing a heart attack or coronary death compared with women who vacationed at least twice a year.

3. Men who did not take an annual vacation were shown to have a 20% higher risk of death and about a 30% greater risk of death from heart disease.

To level the playing field, the researchers did consider and factored in conditions pertaining to income levels and the participants’ overall health.

Travelling is a stress buster

With the hassles of travelling set aside, a well-planned and well executed itinerary, will prove to be one of the best things you’ve ever done. A poll conducted by the U.S. Travel Association discovered that travel, prevents dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The study also found that 86% of those who travel are more satisfied with their outlook on life, compared to the 75% who do not travel. Not only does traveling enrich your brain power, it also strengthens your heart health. The Framingham Heart Study found that those who didn’t take a vacation for several years were more likely to suffer from heart attacks, than those who traveled annually. Once you get away from your work and usual daily routine, stress and anxiety typically goes down, which in turn, decreases the strain on your heart and brain. The outcome is a rested mind, body and an overall better mood, which can linger for a few weeks post-travel, according to one study.

Travel is exercise

If you’re travelling with that world food expo as your main motivation, that may be a different story. But in general, travelling is far better than trying to burn calories while sitting on your office chair. Travelling will force you to walk, run or even engage yourself in paddle boarding, hiking and cycling. A trip to a theme park may require you to walk a few thousand steps or a beach activity can rack you up a sweat. Bottomline, you have more physical activity while travelling than switching your “couch potato” mode on while working in the office. So there you go, travelling has proven benefits for your physical, mental and even spiritual wellbeing. You can gain a lot from switching off that computer, disconnecting from your email and basically turning off your phone and head off to a place you’ve never been to.

If in case you have health or wellness questions you need to address while preparing yourself for that much awaited adventure, remember that you have Medgate doctors at your disposal, 24 hours a day. Just text or call 0917-5362156; 0998-9907540; 0925-7147794.

Manage Your Cholesterol Trough Lifestyle Changes12 September 2018

Have you ever wondered why the world is so concerned about high cholesterol levels ? For one, it increases your risk of having heart disease and heart attacks. You may not know it, but your current cholesterol levels may already be jump starting a disease process in your heart. Better have yourself checked. There are many ways to manage cholesterol levels. One such option is taking anti-cholesterol medications, that are usually synthesized in the liver. This is the most convenient way, but depending on your overall health, you could see various side effects such as muscle pain, liver damage, increased blood sugar and some neurological symptoms.

The other way, is to make modifications to your lifestyle. But before doing that, make sure you have the appropriate clearance from your doctor. Here are some things you may want to change in your lifestyle that could help manage your cholesterol. If you’re already under medication, these changes could make the outcome a better one.

Eat Heart-Healthy Food

Omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon, spinach, oysters and tofu, to name a few, help reduce blood pressure and plasma triglyceride levels. It is also recommended to increase intake of soluble fiber to help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in your bloodstream. Food such as oatmeal, apples, beans, avocados and sweet potatoes are good sources of soluble fibers. Whey protein is another food that can help you manage your cholesterol. Studies have suggested that whey protein has beneficial effects on lipid profiles by lowering triglyceride levels.

Exercise

Countless trials and studies have shown that the right amount and frequency of exercise can do wonders to your body. One of which is increasing your HDL (high-density lipoprotein), or the “good cholesterol” in your body, through moderate physical activity such as brisk walking.

Stop Smoking

A former colleague, during his motivational talk about quitting smoking, once said, “Don’t quit, quitting”. And that’s absolutely right. Don’t quit in trying to quit smoking because the benefits of no smoking far outweighs the brief pleasure it brings. Higher concentrations of good cholesterols have consistently been observed in people who stopped smoking. Quitting smoking also helps lower your blood pressure, while blood circulation improves. As a result, you lessen your risk of heart disease/ attack.

Lose weight

Carrying even an extra load on your body can contribute to your day-to-day struggles. You’ll feel down. You don’t want to move. Your overall physical strength will diminish over time. Being overweight or obese tends to increase your bad cholesterol. Appropriate diet and exercise can help you achieve the ideal weight that is fit for your lifestyle and body.

Before going through lifestyles changes or modifications, please consult a doctor first to determine if it is right for your needs. Medgate’s doctors are available for you 24/7 should you have any healthcare or wellness questions.

Cold vs Allergies How To Tell The Difference30 July 2018

Tomorrow’s a work day, but you’re not feeling well. Another ‘tardy’ remark on your records is out of the question, let alone taking a leave-of-absence for a checkup. You’re coughing, sneezing, your nose is stuffy, you have nasal congestion and so much more. What would you do? Right! You Google and then self-medicate, sleep and hope that tomorrow, everything will be alright. That’s a hit or miss thing because you’re not even sure if what you have is a cold or allergy. So, what’s the difference?

What is a cold?

-If you have allergies or prone to allergies, you may have higher chances of catching a cold.

-Colds are passed on from person to person, when droplets containing the virus is spread by an infected host through coughing or sneezing.

-Usually, the average duration for a cold is about a week. Anything more than that, your cold virus may have triggered or caused a more concerning infection – usually in the upper respiratory tract.

-Some severe form of colds may also bring along headache, body pain or fever.

-You will usually have coughing, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose and occasional sore throat.

How to prevent colds?

-Frequent and proper handwashing.

-Disinfect common areas or equipment, especially if someone in your living or working zone has colds.

-Don’t share straws, drinking glasses, spoons, forks or anything that might facilitate the transfer of the cold virus.

-Use disposable wipes or tissues when sneezing and immediately discard once used.

-Eat well, eat right and exercise.

What are allergies?

We all have immune systems and it’s a wonderful thing. It protects us from anything harmful like bacteria, viruses and others that might make us ill. However, in some instances, our immune system reacts adversely to some external or internal triggers, known as allergens. When this happens, our body releases a chemical known as histamines – these chemicals are the cause of allergy symptoms. Common reactions are rashes, inflammation and other minor irritations. In some cases, a severe reaction like anaphylactic shock, can be life threatening.

Allergies and colds share several symptoms, that is why people are sometimes confused if they have colds or allergies. Here are some commonalities.

-Sneezing

-Coughing

-Sore throat

-Runny nose

-Nasal congestion

-Watery eyes

How to prevent allergies?

You can keep a log of possible allergens and track your reactions so you can avoid them. A doctor can help you identify these triggers so you can get appropriate medical intervention.

How to tell the difference between allergies and colds?

Since colds and allergies share a lot of common symptoms, it’s best to get familiar with the ones that are unique in each condition.

You have higher chances of getting aches and pains in colds, as well as fever and sore throat. Allergies will most likely cause skin rashes, itchy eyes and wheezing.

You may also consider the time of the year. Though you can get colds in summer, it is more prevalent during the wet season, where viruses have the right conditions to thrive and multiply. Another way to differentiate colds and allergies is the duration of symptoms. Colds usually last for a few days to a week, while allergies will linger until the allergen is removed or you get specific treatment. Early intervention is critical. But who wants to go to the doctor’s office for a common cold where traffic and long waiting time are expected? If you have access to telemedicine services, it’s best you consult over the telephone or via video calling mobile apps. The same can be said for allergies, except for severe cases, it’s best to see your doctor face-to-face.

Three Health Issues for Millennials06 July 2018

The registered voters in the Philippines last 2016 are aged 17 to 34, while 53% of the working-age population are millennials. That is just a snapshot of how they rule today’s world. The Western narrative says millennials love watching TVs, streaming videos, texting, mobile music, going out with friends, being online a whole lot more and are used to easy access. This same narrative describes millennials as those who put premium on their value and worth over stability and prefer empowerment with a gray lines separating entitlement. A lot more has been said about these generation, but one thing is certain – millennials have health concerns too.

These health concerns can be attributed to a lifestyle backed by technology, resulting in sedentary lifestyles. Instead of dropping by markets or town plazas, to walk and find the items they need, millennials prefer online shopping. Click and wait – that’s the game. Gatherings are also finding its way to video calls and social media, thereby eliminating travelling, or any type of physical activity. Yes, it’s convenient, but it can also be detrimental to one’s health if left unchecked. Surveys show that millennials prefer fast food, sodas, street food, fried chicken over healthy food intake due to their mobile routine. These, combined with a lifestyle that lacks physical activity, can lead to various health issues. Here are three health issues amongst millennials.

1. Obesity – Every three out of ten Filipino adults are obese. It’s a growing epidemic in the Philippines, according to Dr. Rosa Allyn Sy , an endocrinologist (doctor who specializes in diseases related to hormones). With less physical activity, high consumption of “junk food” and a lifestyle centered on technology, millennials are prone to being obese with increasing prevalence as they grow old. Obesity is costly. It is related to an array of noncommunicable diseases ranging from Type 2 diabetes to cardiovascular diseases leading to stroke to certain types of cancers. Obesity can also contribute, directly and indirectly, to an increased rate of absence from work, due to illness and poor health. Social lifestyles like excessive consumption of alcohol, poor dietary quality and erratic sleep patterns can also contribute to the development of obesity. It’s been said that prevention is better than cure. So, start moving – literally. Walking at least 30 minutes a day will do a lot of wonders for you. Water intake is key. The World Health organization recommends that we drink at least 3.7 liters of water per day to address hydration, fluid loss and various activities. Choose organic, healthy salads over French fries, burgers and sodas. There are many diet and exercise programs out there that can be helpful or dangerous, depending on your approach. There are so many factors to consider in choosing the right diet and exercise program. That is why, It is best you consult a doctor to see what’s best for you.

2. Stress – Obesity and stress are like husbands and wives. They go hand in hand. Stress, undoubtedly is one huge factor contributing to obesity, according to Dr. Edgardo Tolentino , the president of the Philippine Psychiatric Association. Studies have shown that our brains are hard wired, through evolution, to seek food that will comfort us in times of stress – thus the term “stress eating”. Stress can also contribute to higher risks of high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. Other common effects of stress according to the Mayo clinic are headache, muscle pain, chest pain, fatigue, change in sex drive, upset stomach and sleep problems. Stress has effects on your mood too. It can manifest as anxiety, restlessness, lack of motivation and focus, feeling of being overwhelmed, irritability or anger, sadness or depression. While overeating, drug or alcohol abuse, tobacco use, social withdrawal and lack of physical activity are some effects of stress on your behavior. If you have any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you consider stress management activities like regular exercise, relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation, setting aside time for hobbies like reading a book or socializing with friend and families. However, if you’re not sure about stress and how to manage it, better talk to a doctor to help you map out the best course of action.

Mental Health – According to the Department of Health, one out of every five Filipino adults have some form of mental illness. In the Philippines, mental health is either laughed upon or simply dismissed. This stigma and dismissiveness make it difficult for patients to even talk about mental illness. Cost is another factor to consider. Most insurance model in the Philippines do not cover mental health or anything remotely related to it, while psychiatrists ask for a hefty sum just for one consultation. That is why many of us are forced to just shrug it off and go on with our lives. With the recent passage of the Philippine Mental Health Law, or Republic Act 11036, we now have a platform to bring the stigma of mental health into the open, as well as provide access to appropriate healthcare professionals. One common mental illness is depression, which can be linked to a wide array of factors. According to the World Health Organization , depression is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in things and activities one would normally enjoy, inability to carry out daily activities, for at least two weeks. Depression, like most mental illness, is treatable. Family support is crucial as well as open communication. Therapies and other medical intervention are also helpful. Talk to someone you trust or reach out to your doctor if you feel you’re suffering from mental illness.

Back-To-School Blues07 June 2018

It’s back-to-school season once again. Exciting time for kids but not necessarily for you. Adults around the world go through a lot of stress this time of year. Asking themselves if the kids have complete school supplies. Will they be able to fit in? What about their “baon”? Will I give them money or prepare their “baon” myself? These are common scenarios during school days that we learn to handle as we go along. However, there are other serious concerns that we need to keep an eye on. Here are some of them and a few tips to address these back-to-school worries.

Unhealthy Eating

Kids have multiple access to unhealthy food. Getting used to sweets and processed food will be a hard habit to break, if left unchecked. If there are no school policies regarding the type of food being served in the canteen, talk to the officers, rally other parents, be vocal in meetings or even start a petition for the school to have, and implement policies geared towards healthy eating. If one is already in place, make sure it’s being implemented. Talk. Have a heart to heart discussion with the little ones and tell them how important healthy eating habits are. You can also prepare their “baon” so you are 100% sure they have nothing but healthy food to consume.

Disease Transmission

If we could put kids in a bubble to protect them from harmful viruses and germs, we would. But that wouldn’t be fun at all, right? The good thing is, our immune system naturally protects us from common diseases. But there are cases where immunity takes a back seat, and this is where healthy eating comes in. If kids eat right, they are more likely to develop a better, stronger immune system. Vaccinations, vitamins and nutritional supplements can also help in protecting children from common diseases such colds or flu. It is also important that we teach children proper hygiene, like hand washing, a sure way to prevent the spread of germs and viruses.

Bullying

Bullying is a serious issue and can be, at most times, difficult to detect. A healthy, open communication within the household is crucial in determining if a child is being bullied. Common signs include explainable injuries; lost or destroyed clothing, books; changes in eating habits, like skipping meals or binge eating; difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares; declining grades, loss of interest in school works or not wanting to go to school; avoidance of social situations; feeling helpless or poor self-esteem. Learn to read your child’s body language or see if they avoid eye contact. A child’s silence may be more telling. If there’s suspicion of bullying, arrange meetings with people who have frequent interactions with the child. Teachers, classmates, friends are a few examples. Find out where the bullying occurs so you could ask help from the most appropriate people. Support children the best way you can and emphasize that you believe in them and you’re always ready to help.

Lack of Exercise

In this day of technological advancements, children are often seen sitting, interacting with their smart phones or tablets. This inactivity could take a heavy toll on them. It has been proven that proper exercise, along with a well-balanced diet can lead to a healthy adult life. Encourage play, it’s a form of exercise. Insert as much physical activity as you can in children’s daily routine. If the destination is nearby, walk. Involve kids in household chores. The sooner a habit of physical activity is built, the easier it will be for children to disengage themselves from a sedentary lifestyle.

These back-to-school blues can ruin a perfectly good day. But remember, prevention is key. For you to prevent and manage all all these issues, you must know what to look for and know how to execute your plan. Medgate is the best source of information about your health concerns. Call them now to talk to any one of their specialist doctors!

June - Let's talk about men's health07 June 2018

Richard Gomez, Aga Muhlach, and Ian Veneracion. Apart from their stunningly good looks, what else do they have in common? All of them have breached that dreaded 40-year-old mark. Not 40 yet? Continue reading because this is for you too. What you do in your 20’s and 30’s, will be reaped when you get to 40 – good or bad, it’s up to you. If you’re 40’ish, you can still change the course of your health for the better. Here are some tips you can do before and after 40, for a healthier you.

Choose what you eat.

Always go for green, leafy salads over processed food. Watch your rice intake as this is a huge source of sugar (remember, carbs turn into sugar in your body). Go for water instead of powdered juices. And please, skip the unli-rice and unli-iced tea. Prepare your own food if you have time and gravitate towards lean, light colored meat and fish. Eat slow – yes, you’ve read it right. Eating fast skips one step in the digestive process, where you chew your food fine enough before swallowing. Bigger pieces of food reaching your stomach means your body will have a harder time digesting it. This creates inefficiency in digestion, leading to poor nutrient absorption.

Focus on flexibility.

Yes, you’re young, you’re flexible. But 20 – 30 years from now, you won’t be able to touch your toes even with knees bent. It doesn’t matter if you’re 20 or 40, flexibility is something you can’t do without. Just imagine your activities of daily living like putting on your clothes or shoes, taking a bath, reaching overhead. These activities can be like completing a course in American Ninja Warrior if you’re not flexible enough. Focus on a workout routine that puts premium on flexibility. This gives your body a full workout without putting too much stress on your joints. While young, maintain flexible muscles in preparation for your 40’ish adventures.

Quit smoking.

If you’re smoking, quit. Don’t quit, quitting as the saying goes. Countless studies have pointed to smoking as a predisposing factor to deadly diseases like lung cancer, emphysema and other lung conditions. If you’re in your 20’s and reading this, you have more time to quit. If you’re 40 now, then stop and feel the difference. It’s not too late.

Sleep well.

Sleeping well is fast becoming a privilege. With traffic and work taking the bulk of our day, it’s no wonder many Filipinos, are lacking sleep both in number of hours and quality. The sooner you form a healthy sleep pattern, the sooner you’ll be able to achieve quality sleep. Exercise, eating right and kicking that tobacco out of your system, will all help in achieving this goal.

Now you know what to focus on, all you need is an expert to guide you. For any health concerns, call Medgate's telemedicine center so you can have a consultation with one of their specialist doctors. They will attend to your health concerns any time of the day or night.

Common Summer Diseases And How To Avoid Them07 June 2018

It’s the fiesta season! But don’t let common summer diseases ruin your day. According to the DOH, the five most common summer diseases are sunburn, flu, sore eyes, stomach ailments and skin diseases.

Sunburns are fairly common during festivals that peak during the month of May. Revelers are exposed under the grueling heat with their skins exposed to the harmful rays of the sun. Try to avoid outdoor activities while the sun is at its peak between 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. If festivities are expected during this time, make sure you wear proper eye protection like sunglasses, loose clothing and apply sun screen at least 30 minutes before going out. It is also critical that you are properly hydrated. Keep a bottle of water by your side – this could save a life.

Flu-like symptoms abound during summer specially in the festive season of May, where flowers and pollens are plentiful. Mother nature can be unpredictable so watch out for colds and coughs. A hot and humid day can suddenly turn into a cold downpour. Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough to help prevent the spread of viruses and please stay at home if you feel sick. Frequent hand washing can help prevent the spread of flu viruses.

The summer heat helps in speeding up the spread of bacteria in pre-prepared food leading to spoilage. You may not notice it, but the food you’re eating may not be fit for consumption. Vomiting and diarrhea are two common outcomes after consuming contaminated or spoiled food. Watch out for signs of dehydration due to unabated loss of body fluid. It’s good to have oral rehydration solutions just in case. If you’re the designated food handler, don’t forget to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching the food you’ll serve.

Conjunctivitis, or more commonly known as “sore eyes” is not your typical eye irritation. If left untreated, it could lead to serious complications. It could be due to a bacteria or virus that easily spreads during this season where the conditions are right for them to thrive. People are mostly out, interacting with each other – a good way to spread infection. Regular handwashing and avoiding touching or scratching your eyes are sure ways to prevent this.

Many of us beat the summer heat by going to the beach or plunging in the nearest swimming pool we can find. But don’t be too fast. Unkempt and poorly maintained water can lead to various skin diseases. Take a bath before and after swimming. Watch out for changes in your skin color, temperature and possible appearance of rashes.

Remember. Prevention is key. However, if you already have any of the five diseases mentioned, you have the next best thing. Just call Medgate’s 24/7 doctors for easy, fast and convenient consultations over the phone.

Telemedicine’s Potential Role in the Philippine Healthcare System07 June 2018

Ever wondered why it takes so long for you to see a doctor? Or why most doctors shuttle from one clinic to another to serve a multitude of patients? The answer is quite simple. There are not enough doctors to serve the public. According to Dr. Paulyn Ubial, DOH’s former secretary, “The Philippines has a ratio of one doctor to 33,000 persons.” Calling it a serious problem, is an understatement. Cuba has a far better ratio of one doctor for every 1,075 persons. In 2016, the DOH’s “Doctors to the Barrios” program was able to send 398 doctors to far-flung areas of the Philippines. However, they still lacked 116 doctors. Since compensation is a major issue, most doctors would choose to practice abroad, rather than stay and build their practice in the Philippines. The outcome is clear – crowded clinics and hospitals, long lines waiting for the doctor even for the simplest of illness, rushed consultations to cover more patients and increased cost because doctors order a lot of laboratory and diagnostic procedures to support their diagnosis.

So what can you do to help? Simple! Use telemedicine to address and treat common outpatient illnesses. But what is telemedicine? Telemedicine is a way to conduct medical consultations over the phone or through a customized mobile app via video conference calls. Be careful though. Not all telemedicine providers are the same. Medgate was founded in Switzerland almost 20 years ago with operations in Europe, Australia, Abu Dhabi, India, and the Philippines. During its years of worldwide operations, Medgate has developed statistically-based teletreatment guidelines so their doctors can address and treat non-emergency cases. In their Swiss office alone, they have conducted over 7 million consultations already. Good thing you have Medgate as your telemedicine provider.

What happens if I use telemedicine instead of going to the clinic or hospital? The immediate benefit would be convenience. Imagine not going through hours and hours of traffic or lining up at the clinic for a quick, ten-minute consultation. Because of telemedicine, you now have the opportunity to rest and recover. Tele-consultations conducted by Medgate’s doctors are thorough and detailed since medical governance is at the core of their practice. You also save on cost because you don’t have to pay for travel expenses to and from your house and clinic.

But the bigger picture is this – using telemedicine to get treatment means you are supporting the nation’s healthcare system and your fellow Filipinos in general. How? You are helping to declog clinics and hospitals because you are having medical consultations over the phone. This allows doctors in those clinics and hospitals to concentrate their time and efforts on emergency and complicated cases.

Remember! Telemedicine is not just a convenient way for you to have medical consultations, it also helps an ailing nation’s healthcare system.

eMedical Certificate via Medgate07 June 2018

Have you ever been too sick to get out of bed, but you still need to see a doctor? Being sick will not give you a free pass, you still have to go through hours of road traffic, long queues at the clinic and a huge amount of stress while travelling. Medgate understands your pain, and has nothing but your health and well-being in mind. This is just one of the many reasons why leading HMOs partnered with Medgate, a world leader in telemedicine services.

Medgate provides tele-consultations, ePrescriptions, Care Plans (summary of consultation) and members can now request for FREE electronic Medical Certificates. You just need to pick up your phone, call and have a tele-consultation with any of Medgate’s specialist doctors on duty.

Who is Medgate?

Medgate is anchored on almost 20 years of telemedicine experience, statistically-based tele-treatment guidelines and the vast clinical experience of specialist doctors who have gone through a rigorous training program in telemedicine. This ensures each patient receives proper diagnosis, appropriate treatment and where applicable, a prescription and a medical certificate.

Expert medical care is literally at your fingertips – a convenient option to the hassle of traveling to a doctor, while giving you unparalleled ‘peace of mind’ and round-the-clock access.

With this innovation, your employers are able to extend ‘duty of care’ to you in a very convenient and efficient way. It’s a win-win situation for all.

How to access Medgate?

Apart from your trusty old landline and cellphones, Medgate gives you additional touchpoints like a free mobile app, SMS call back, web portal messaging and Facebook messenger. Medgate’s friendly nurses will be the one to call you on the agreed time before setting up the call with Medgate’s doctors. Isn’t that special?

As an added feature, a real-time video call with Medgate’s specialist doctors is also available. Using this platform, you can have your consultation via video call— as if you are in the clinic.

What to do next?

Maximize your benefits. Inform your colleagues and management about this innovative feature of Medgate. It will surely make your life, as well as the lives of your family and colleagues, better.

Remember. If you are sick or have any health concern, just Call Doc. Anywhere. Anytime. No line ™!

Intellicare launches eMedical Certificate via Medgate06 May 2018

Have you ever been too sick to get out of bed, but you still need to see a doctor? Being sick will not give you a free pass, you still have to go through hours of road traffic, long queues at the clinic and a huge amount of stress while travelling. Intellicare understands your pain, and has nothing but your health and well-being in mind. This is just one of the many reasons why Intellicare partnered with Medgate, a world leader in telemedicine services.

Medgate provides tele-consultations, issuance of ePrescriptions, Care Plans (summary of consultation) and Intellicare members can now request for FREE electronic Medical Certificates. You just need to pick up your phone, call Medgate and have a tele-consultation with any of Medgate’s specialist doctors on roster.

Who is Medgate?

Medgate is anchored on almost 20 years of telemedicine experience, statistically-based tele-treatment guidelines and the vast clinical experience of specialist doctors who have gone through rigorous training in telemedicine. This ensures each patient receives proper diagnosis, appropriate treatment and where applicable, a prescription and a medical certificate.

Expert medical care is literally at your fingertips – a convenient option to the hassle of traveling to a doctor, unparalleled ‘peace of mind’ and round-the-clock access.

With this innovation, your employers are able to extend ‘duty of care’ to you in a very convenient and efficient way. It’s a win-win situation for all.

How to access Medgate?

Apart from your trusty old landline and cellphones, Medgate gives you additional touchpoints like a free mobile app, SMS call back and web portal messaging and Facebook messenger. Medgate’s friendly nurses will be the one to call you on the agreed time before setting up the call with Medgate’s doctors. Isn’t that special?

As an added feature, a real-time video call with Medgate’s specialist doctors is also available. Using this platform, you can have your consultation via video call— as if you are in the clinic.

What to do next?

Maximize your benefits. Inform your colleagues and management about this innovative feature of Intellicare . It will surely make your life, as well as the lives of your family and colleagues, better.

Remember. If you are sick or have any health concern, just Call Doc. Anywhere. Anytime. No line ™!

News Update: National Press Club17 July 2017

Business World

Section 6 Page 1

Special Feature: Medgate Philippines17 July 2017

Business World

Section 6 Page 1

Innovative quality healthcare: Intellicare and Medgate Philippines partnership27 February 2017

Business World

Vol XXX Issue 151

Section 4 Page 3

As a new age of swift communication and modern technology continues to unfold, Intellicare keeps abreast with today’s pulse with its commitment to lead, innovate, and trailblaze a holistic approach to healthcare management. It utilizes modern developments to deliver quality service at the touch of one’s fingertips, thus, the partnership with Europe’s telemedicine provider, Medgate.

Medgate is the leading international provider of telemedicine, with 18 years of experience and operations in Switzerland, Middle East, Australia, and now, the Philippines.

Intellicare members may now access their 24-hour telemedicine center at no additional cost. Medgate offers high quality, convenient, and confidential medical consultations over the phone for non-emergency cases. Medgate’s pool of doctors are composed of specialists in most fields of medicine with extensive knowledge of the local healthcare system. They actively manage the patient’s consultation making sure prompt and the appropriate diagnosis and treatment are rendered. They may now experience the same quality healthcare management provided by a qualified doctor without the inconvenience of travelling for hours to go to a clinic or hospital and waiting in line to physically consult with a physician.

Intellicare members may avail of this service by simply calling Medgate through their hotline or downloading Medgate’s free mobile app. A trained nurse will verify the identity of the patient upon call and will be endorsed to Medgate’s line up of qualified and experienced physicians.

In order to complement the patient’s total telemedicine experience, Medgate also partnered with an outpatient pharmacy with delivery service capabilities. Medgate sends them the patient’s prescription, they then call the patient to explain the delivery service, including but not limited to the following: delivery time, minimum order, delivery charges, payment options, and delivery address.

The welfare of Intellicare members is important and the company trusts that this alternative method of medical consultation offers the accessibility of immediate medical assessment.

With this partnership, Intellicare and Medgate did not just bring a bright innovation on the table but this brought about a true complementary support to PhilHealth’s advocacy to provide accessible healthcare to the Filipinos.

In photo (L-R: are David King, Medgate director; Robert Parker, Medgate president; Jeremy Matti, Intellicare senior vice-president for Marketing and Sales; and Mario Silos, Intellicare chairman and president.

In The News: Early Detection Best Bet to Avoid Dengue Fatalities15 February 2017

Written by: Samuelle Sison

Fatalities from dengue can be avoided with early detection, which is why even a fever should not be ignored–especially when young children are involved.

“Children have the highest case fatality rate (CFR) for dengue, at close to 1%,” stressed Medgate Philippines Chief Executive Officer Robert Parker, who added that this is more than double the CFR for the dreaded mosquito-borne disease, which has an average CFR of .48%.

Parker’s company, Medgate Philippines, is the leading international provider of telemedicine, with operations in Switzerland, the Middle East, Australia, and the Philippines. Telemedicine is the use of electronic communications to transmit and exchange medical information and data to treat patients. It allows people to consult doctors via their cellular phones instead of lining up at the doctor’s office.

“The numbers may not appear alarming at first glance, but when you consider that the Philippines had a total of 211,108 cases of dengue in 2016, this means that last year more than a thousand Filipinos died from a disease that is very, very treatable if detected early,” added Parker. Data from the Department of Health-Epidemiology Bureau (DOH-EB) reveals that dengue resulted in 1,019 deaths last year, with the 1-4 age bracket recording the highest CFR at 0.98 percent. All in all, 211,108 dengue cases were recorded from January 1 to December 31, 2016.

According to Medgate Philippines Medical Director Dr. Arlene Claudio, the prevalence of dengue has made it unwise to ignore common afflictions such as a fever.

“The advantage of Medgate Philippines subscribers is that they’re able to consult a doctor the moment they suspect that they may have dengue, without having to line up for hours just to see a doctor,” explained Claudio.

“Now, if our on-call doctors determine that a caller has the symptoms associated with the disease, they can immediately advise our subscribers to go to the nearest hospital to get immediate medical attention. The faster dengue sufferers get treatment, the greater the chance the disease doesn’t become life-threatening.”

DOH Secretary Paulyn Jean Ubial, on the other hand, has emphasized the need for dengue prevention by ensuring cleanliness in our communities.

“It is very important to search and destroy the potential breeding sites in order to prevent the spread of Aedes mosquitoes that serve as vector of the virus. We reiterate that cleanliness is still the key against mosquito-borne diseases,” she said.

Ubial said that the public should be mindful of the “4S” stategy when dealing with dengue.

“The public is reminded to be vigilant and pre-cautious in eliminating mosquito breeding places through the ‘4S campaign’. The 4S means Search and destroy mosquito breeding places, use Self-protection measures, Seek early consultation for fever lasting more than two days, and Say yes to fogging only when there is an impending outbreak,” said Ubial.

Dengue is a virus transmitted by the bite of an Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is characterized by the sudden onset of high fever, which may last from two to seven days; joint and muscle pain and pain behind the eyes; weakness, skin rashes, and nose bleeding when fever starts to subside; abdominal pain, vomiting of coffee-colored matter, dark-colored stools, and difficulty in breathing.

Kick the habit and save lives, Medgate urges31 January 2017

by Manila Standard

GIVING up smoking could be the best new year’s resolution for the country’s 17-million smokers, saving smokers and their families from tens of thousands of pesos in potential medical costs.

Medgate Philippines Chief Executive Officer Robert Parker said the Department of Health should be commended for launching an aggressive anti-tobacco campaign that highlights the health and economic harms of smoking to families.

“Modern medicine allows us to address many of the health problems encountered by smokers, but the best solution to all these problems is simply quitting,” said Parker, whose company, Medgate Philippines, is the leading international provider of telemedicine, with operations in Switzerland, the Middle East, Australia, and the Philippines.

Telemedicine is the use of electronic communications to transmit and exchange medical information and data to treat patients. It allows people to consult doctors via their cellular phones instead of queuing in line at the doctor’s office.

Parker explained smokers were vulnerable to medical issues, “like emphysema, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and heart disease.”

“Telemedicine provides a means by which a smoker can immediately consult a doctor so he or she can find out the extent of one’s health issues.”

Launched last October, the DOH anti-smoking campaign, called “Protect Your Family, Stop Smoking!” is designed to encourage quitting the habit.

“With more than 17 million Filipinos still addicted to tobacco use, there’s more work to be done to reduce the health and economic harms of tobacco. We are confident that this campaign, with its clear message targeted at Filipino families, will encourage more people to try to quit smoking tobacco,” said Health Secretary Dr. Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial.

Source: http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/228084/kick-the-habit-and-save-lives-medgate-urges.html

In The News: Smoking costs PH P188B every year30 January 2017

Written by Paul M.Gutierrez

GIVING up cigarette smoking may well be the “best” New Year’s resolution for the country’s estimated 17 million smokers with the vice’s ill-effects reportedly costing the country upwards to P188 billion in health cost and productivity losses.

This, according to Medgate Philippines’ chief executive officer Robert Parker, who also lauded the campaign of the Department of Health (DoH) headed by Health Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Russel-Ubial to stop tobacco addiction through the department’s “Protect Your Family, Stop Smoking” campaign.

Launched last October, the campaign is designed to encourage smokers to quit the vice.

“With more than 17 million Filipinos still addicted to tobacco use, there’s more work to be done to reduce the health and economic harms of tobacco.

“We are confident that this campaign, with its clear message targeted at Filipino families, will encourage more people to try to quit smoking tobacco,”

Ubial said. Ubial said the campaign was very timely, “as President Rodrigo Duterte moves towards implementing his clear vision of the Philippines’ tobacco control priorities.”

“This includes comprehensive smoke-free laws and the full implementation of graphic health warnings on tobacco packaging earlier approved by Congress,” the official said.

The department has already identified tobacco as the primary risk factor in the Philippines for a range of non-communicable diseases.

Aside from costing the country some P188 billion in health cost and productivity losses, it was also found out that more than 71,850 Filipinos are killed by tobacco-related diseases every year.

The Philippine Cancer Society has also reported that around 3,000 non-smoking adult Filipinos die every year of lung cancer as a result of inhaling second-hand smoke.

For his part, Parker noted that while modern medicine can now address many of the health problems encountered by smokers, “the best solution to all these problems is simply quitting.”

Medgate, his company, is one of the world’s leading international providers of telemedicine, with operations in Switzerland, the Middle East, Australia, and the Philippines.

“Telemedicine” is the use of electronic communications to transmit and exchange medical information and data to treat patients. It allows people to consult doctors via their cellular phones instead of queuing in line at the doctor’s office.

Source: http://www.journal.com.ph/news/top-stories/smoking-costs-ph-p188b-every-year

In The News: Inclusion of CPR training in basic education sought12 December 2016

By Jess Diaz (The Philippine Star)

A lawmaker proposed yesterday the inclusion of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training in the physical education curriculum of private and public secondary schools.

“We need CPR knowhow, especially during this season when more Filipinos are succumbing to heart attack,” Laguna Rep. Sol Aragones said.

Citing a study by the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP), Aragones said medical emergencies and admissions triple during the Christmas holidays.

These usually involve heart attacks, strokes and diabetes as a consequence of excessive eating and drinking, Aragones said.

Based on the PCP study, the number of medical emergencies in Metro Manila between January and November ranged from 30 to 50 cases a month.

“The numbers in December showed a significant rise in cases: 153 in 2004, 163 in 2005, 172 in 2006, 170 in 2007 and 170 in 2008,” Aragones said.

“Half of these emergency cases resulted in death. Who knows how many lives could have been saved if immediate medical treatment in the form of CPR was administered. CPR saves lives, which is why everyone should be required to learn it,” she said.

She noted that Health Secretary Paulyn Jean Ubial supports her advocacy.

Aragones quoted Ubial as saying that all Filipinos, not only health workers, should learn how to do CPR.

Filipinos who have yet to learn CPR have an alternative.

Medgate Philippines chief executive officer Robert Parker said the telemedicine pioneer provides a step-by-step guide on performing CPR through mobile phone or landline.

“Of course, nothing beats learning CPR in a class but when emergencies strike, teleconsultation through smartphone app is the closest thing you can get to getting an instant tutorial,” Parker said.

Teleconsultation is one of the advantages offered by telemedicine – the use of electronic communications to transmit and exchange medical information and data to treat patients.

Medgate is the leading international provider of telemedicine, with operations in Australia, Middle East, Switzerland and the Philippines.

“The best treatment is to nip these problems in the bud,” Medgate Philippines medical director Arlene Claudio said.

“If something doesn’t feel right, you should see a doctor right away and ask if it’s something serious. That’s something we always advise our clients; if you feel off, call at once so you know if you have a real emergency on your hands,” Claudio added.

Source: http://www.philstar.com/metro/2016/12/12/1652594/inclusion-cpr-training-basic-education-sought

In The News: First aid know-how a must — lawmaker09 December 2016

by Manila Standard

With data showing that more Filipinos succumb to heart attacks and strokes, a lawmaker reiterated the need to include cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in the physical education curriculum of both private and public secondary schools. “According to the Philippine College of Physicians, hospital records reveal that medical emergencies and admissions triple during the holidays, and these usually involve heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes as a consequence of the excessive eating and drinking commonplace during the holidays,” said Laguna 3rd District Rep. Sol Aragones , who is the author of House Bill 1858, or the CPR Instruction Act of 2016.

The PCP, citing a survey of hospitals in the National Capital Region conducted from 2004 to 2008, showed that from January to November, the monthly average of medical emergencies and admissions was between 30 and 50 cases. The numbers in December, show a dramatic rise in cases: 153 in 2004, 163 in 2005, 172 in 2006, 170 in 2007, and 170 in 2008.

The same sentiments are shared by Health Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial, who has supported the passage of legislation that would make CPR training mandatory for graduation.

Ubial had required CPR training in work evaluations for employees in Davao health regional offices under then Davao Mayor and now President Rodrigo R. Duterte.

Filipinos who have yet to learn CPR, however, have an alternative. Medgate Philippines Chief Executive Officer Robert Parker said that the telemedicine pioneer provides a step-by-step guide on performing CPR via mobile phone or landline.

“Of course, nothing beats learning it in a comprehensive class, but when emergencies strike, teleconsultation via our smartphone app is the closest thing you can get to getting an instant tutorial,” Parker explained.

Teleconsultation is one of the advantages offered by telemedicine––the use of electronic communications to transmit and exchange medical information and data to treat patients. Parker’s company, Medgate Philippines, is the leading international provider of telemedicine, with operations in Switzerland, the Middle East, Australia, and the Philippines.

Medgate Philippines Medical Director Dr. Arlene Claudio stressed, however, that the best treatment “is to nip these problems in the bud.”

“If something doesn’t feel right, you should report your symptoms right away and ask a doctor if it’s something serious. That’s something we always advise all our clients; if you feel off, call at once so you know if you have a real emergency on your hands.”

Source: http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/223717/first-aid-know-how-a-must-lawmaker.html

Medgate Telemedicine Center Opens in the Philippines08 December 2016

Earlier this year, Medgate Philippines started operations. The Philippines are already the third country outside Switzerland, where the successful telemedicine concept of Medgate takes root, after the opening of the Abu Dhabi Telemedicine Center in the United Arab Emirates in 2014 and the Telemedicine Center ReadyCare in Australia in 2015.

At Medgate Philippines, 25 doctors and 8 telemedical assistants currently provide advice and diagnosis around the clock, 365 days a year, for patients with acute and general medical questions. Patients are treated according to the high quality guidelines as developed and implemented by Medgate in Switzerland. Doctors at Medgate Philippines can also provide their patients with medication prescriptions and a certificate of inability to work, if necessary.

The Medgate concept has established itself over the last 16 years in Switzerland and is attracting a lot of interest abroad. A further expansion of Medgate International is therefore planned and negotiations for further countries are already underway. Medgate is convinced that through the exchange of experience at international level, new impulses can also be set in Switzerland.

In The News: Medical innovator urges action on doctor shortage06 December 2016

by Manila Standard

WITH the Philippines needing almost one million new doctors, a law providing for medical school scholarships and telemedicine services are being touted as measures that can be adopted to ensure that every Filipino has access to immediate medical care.

Health Secretary Dr. Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial, who was directed by President Rodrigo R. Duterte to travel to Cuba in August this year to study the country’s health care system, pointed out that Cuba has a ratio of one doctor for every 1,075 patients––a far cry from the Philippines, which has a ratio of one doctor for every 33,000 persons.

According to Ubial, the prohibitive costs of medical school and length of study required discourages many Filipinos from becoming doctors.

“We’re producing only 2,600 a year. Right now, it’s very difficult to go into medicine,” Ubial said.

There is a bill in the Senate that seeks to establish medical scholarship programs to increase the number of doctors in the country. Senate Bill 2717, authored by Senator Sonny Angara, would provide scholarships for deserving students in the University of the Philippines College of Medicine from every province of the country.

“According to data from the UPCM, about 80 percemt of its graduates leave the country to practice medicine abroad. Unfortunately, this trend has been increasing for the past 10 years. The effect is evident in the lack of medical doctors to serve our underprivileged countrymen,” said Angara.

If passed into law, the measure would require graduates of the program to work in provincial hospitals for five years.

Medgate Philippines Chief Executive Officer Robert Parker says that these programs “are a good long-term solution to the dearth of doctors in the Philippines.” “However, the thousands of doctors needed won’t be produced overnight. Given the urgency of the problem, we have to look at viable, immediate alternatives to mitigate the impact of doctor shortages, especially in rural areas where doctors are scarce,” Parker stressed.

One option, according to Parker, is telemedicine––the use of electronic communications to transmit and exchange medical information and data to treat patients. Parker’s company, Medgate Philippines, is the leading international provider of telemedicine, with operations in Switzerland, the Middle East, Australia, and the Philippines.

“In some areas in the Philippines, you have doctors servicing over 20,000 people. This means long waiting times just to consult a doctor,” explained Medgate Philippines Medical Director Dr. Arlene Claudio.

“What telemedicine does is give every one who has a cellular phone access to a doctor 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So when you’re sick, you can consult a doctor anytime, anywhere.”

Source: http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-main-stories/top-stories/223429/medical-innovator-urges-action-on-doctor-shortage-.html

In The News: Health care bill pushed05 December 2016

Written by Paul M.Gutierrez

THE Department of Health (DoH) and stakeholders in the health sector are calling on Congress to expedite the passage of Senate Bill 2717 creating a scholarship program for doctors of medicine to boost the country’s overall healthcare system.

The proposal, authored by Sen. Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara, seeks to provide scholarships for at least one deserving student in every province of the country at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine (UPCM).

In his introduction to the bill, Angara noted that available data disclosed that 80 percent of UPCM graduates leave the country to practice medicine abroad, a trend that has started more than 10 years ago.

“The effect is evident in the lack of medical doctors to serve our underprivileged countrymen,” said Angara.

The exodus abroad of Filipino doctors has become problematic considering that Philippine medical schools are only producing some 2,600 each year, according to Health Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rossel-Ubial.

If passed into law, the measure would require graduates of the program to work in provincial hospitals for five years.

Last August, Ubial was instructed by President Rodrigo Duterte to visit the communist nation of Cuba to study its health care system, which is one of the best in the world.

Ubial reported that Cuba has a ratio of one doctor for every 1,075 patients––a far cry from the Philippines, which has a ratio of one doctor for every 33,000 persons.

The DoH chief opined that the “prohibitive cost” of medical school and the length of years in school required —10 years—have discouraged many Filipinos from becoming doctors.

To help remedy the situation, Medgate Philippines, a leading medical group engaged in “telemedicine” using the Internet and electronic telecommunications, has offered its services and techonology in reaching out to the most number of Filipinos regarding their health.

Medgate Philippines Chief Executive Officer Robert Parker says that these programs “are a good long-term solution to the dearth of doctors in the Philippines.”

“Given the urgency of the problem, we have to look at viable, immediate alternatives to mitigate the impact of doctor shortages, especially in rural areas where doctors are scarce,” Parker stressed. Parker claimed Medgate is the leading international provider of telemedicine, with operations in Switzerland, the Middle East, Australia, and the Philippines.

“What telemedicine does is give everyone who has a cellular phone access to a doctor 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So when you’re sick, you can consult a doctor anytime, anywhere,” the official said.

Source: http://journal.com.ph/news/top-stories/health-care-bill-pushed

Intellicare partners with Medgate28 September 2016

28 September 2016. Fast-growing HMO Intellicare and Medgate Philippines announces its partnership to the public in the Philippine Daily Inquirer. With the joint aim of providing swift and compelling healthcare service to members, both companies continue to enhance the service experience by providing tele-medical consultations, plus more avenues to communicate thru the website, APP and social media pages.

Medgate Philippines Joins ASPLI’s 17th Annual Summit27 September 2016

The Association of Service Professionals in Life Insurance (ASPLI) held its 17th annual summit in Iloilo last 08 September 2016. Focusing on their theme: “Customer Service Simple and Personal in the Digital Age”, Mr. Robert Parker, CEO of Medgate Philippines discussed how in an age where more and more transactions are made online or thru digital channels like social media and mobile phones, friendly and satisfactory customer service still remain the number one requirement in the service industry to leave a mark in the hearts of customers.

A friendly tone and being able to quickly solve their problem or concern are given top marks by clients. Fast delivery of service is also very important, otherwise customers would consider alternatives.

How does Medgate achieve all this? Investment in a strong platform for the delivery of tele-medical services, and professional training for its Tele-Medical Assistants, Customer Service Representatives and Medical Doctors. Lastly, the willingness to listen to both good and bad feedback, and be flexible to changing customer demands allow Medgate Philippines to provides its member with the best possible service each day, 24/7.

If you are interested in an exciting career for a company that's revolutionizing the medical industry, feel free to send us an email at info@medgatephilippines.com.