Health expert says milk matters in bridging children’s nutritional gap

As the Philippines ushers in National Children’s Month this November, renewed calls were made to focus on bridging the alarming nutritional gap in Filipino children.

The 2023 report of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) revealed that 21.3% of Filipino children aged 5-10 years old are underweight, 8.4% have muscle wasting, and 12.9% are either overweight or obese. These numbers are higher compared to their 2021 data. 

This was echoed in the February 2025 research of Thrive, a non-profit organization with an international board and advisory council, which said that childhood malnutrition remains a critical issue in the Philippines.

Dr. Yvonne Marie Ferrer, FEIHE Philippines’ Medical Affairs Head, echoed the calls to address children’s nutritional challenges, especially during early childhood, which is a period of rapid growth and development.  She said that if parents miss out on this chance to support the child’s growth and development during early childhood, there could be a risk for lesser opportunities to excel later in life.

Dr. Ferrer said that one effective and simple step to help close the nutritional gap is for school-aged children to consume one to two glasses of milk daily, explaining that milk offers a lot of nutritional benefits for optimal growth and development.

However, a recent FNRI study showed that only half of the population of Filipino children consume milk daily and Dr. Ferrer said that this is a cause for concern. 

“Parents should not miss out on the milk benefits for their children as an essential food and nutritional source. Not drinking milk on a daily basis may leave lasting consequences on children’s health and learning potential,” she said.

However, Dr. Ferrer said that not all milk is created the same and advised parents to be mindful about the milk they give their kids.

“Fresh milk formula would be a great choice for growing kids such as AceKid Activegro. Unlike conventional milk formulas which go through numerous heating treatments in their milk manufacturing, AceKid fresh milk formula has a game changer farm-to-can process. High heat treatment and storage required in conventional milk manufacturing degrade nutrients, and even leads to loss of some essential nutrients needed for the child’s growth and development. With FEIHEs single step process, heat treatment and storage are lessened, resulting in retention of milk’s natural nutrients, Dr. Ferrer explained.

“Parents would also be happy to know that AceKid does not contain sucrose and maltodextrin, preventing early tooth decay and picky eating due to the sweet taste conditioning and the possibility of having diabetes later in life,” she adds.

More importantly, Dr. Ferrer said AceKid ActiveGro is produced from the pristine “golden milk source belt” at 47° North Latitude. This region is known for its fertile black soil, rich in nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, calcium, and magnesium—ideal for growing high-quality feed for dairy cows.

“Cows fed with crops from this golden dairy source produce milk that is naturally more nutrient-rich,” Dr. Ferrer said. 

In choosing milk for their kids, parents should also pay attention to the milk’s texture, smell and solubility as children tend to reject milk that smells strong or feels clumpy,” she advised. 

AceKid ActiveGro is processed using fresh milk formula, retaining the natural aroma of milk and its nutrients. The single step approach also leads to easy solubility of the milk when mixed with water. All these features make it easy for mothers to convince their children to drink milk, according to several testimonies of mothers. 

As Filipino families continue to navigate the nutritional gap challenges, AceKid ActiveGro champions a simple yet powerful call: invest in children’s nutrition, one glass of fresh milk formula at a time, positioning itself as a trusted partner in building a healthier future for the next generation. 

The LEGO® Group Brings Its First Certified Store to Cavite

Families from the South can soon skip the Manila traffic for their LEGO® fix. On October 19, the world’s most iconic play brand opens its newest LEGO Certified Store (LCS) Vermosa at Ayala Malls Vermosa, bringing the joy of play closer to home.

This new branch marks the seventh store in the Philippines, further expanding the brand’s growing footprint beyond Metro Manila and giving builders of all ages a space to build, play, and explore.

A Filipino Story, Built Brick by Brick

At the heart of LEGO Certified Store (LCS) Vermosa is a special LEGO 3D model that pays tribute to Filipino rural life – a farmer and his carabao set against a golden harvest field, built meticulously piece by piece. It’s a nod to Cavite’s farming roots and to the creativity and craftsmanship that Filipinos are known for.

Adding to the excitement, families can meet and take photos with the LEGO Brick Mascots, making the grand opening weekend a picture-perfect experience. Kids visiting during the opening can also meet LEGO Santa and, if they come dressed as Santa’s Little Helper, receive a free polybag – a festive way to celebrate the season ahead.

The LEGO Passport Returns – and Many More

A fan favorite is making its comeback! After a year-long break, the beloved LEGO Passport is back inviting fans to continue their building journey. Bring your passport with six existing stamps from other LEGO Certified Stores and complete your 7th stamp at LEGO Certified Store (LCS) Vermosa to receive a free polybag. It’s a fun little reward for loyal collectors and new builders alike.

Opening weekend guests can also bring home limited-edition keepsakes – the limited ‘I ❤️ LCS Vermosa’ ribbon-cutting set for Php 10,000 single-receipt purchases, and a foldable LEGO shopper bags for Php 5,000 – while supplies last.

To make the opening day even more memorable, customers who spend Php 5,000 in a single receipt will receive a Php 500-voucher* which they can redeem at any LEGO Certified Store nationwide.

Experience the Joy of Building

Shoppers won’t have trouble finding the newest LEGO haven. Vibrant LEGO 3D displays have been set up around key mall entrances and hallways, each one a playful invitation to join the fun inside.

With the opening of LEGO Certified Store (LCS) Vermosa, the LEGO Group continues to grow its presence in the country, joining store locations in BGC Park Triangle, Alabang Town Center, TriNoMa, Shangri-La Plaza, UP Town Center, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay. Every new store tells the same story: that Filipinos never outgrow play. Whether it’s a child discovering LEGO bricks for the first time or a parent rebuilding memories, each block connects families in a way only play can.

To learn more about the LEGO Group, check out www.lego.com. 

Pick Up Your PSA Certificate at Robinsons Department Stores – a Smarter Alternative to PSA Delivery

In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, having your PSA certificate online delivered straight to your doorstep has become the go-to option for many. Yet not everyone is available to wait at home, and missed deliveries can be a hassle. That’s why PSAHelpline.ph now offers a flexible pick-up option at Robinsons Department Store branches, turning your local mall into a collection point for your PSA documents. With 51 Robinsons Department Store (RDS) branches nationwide now supported, this pick-up service is a practical alternative to pure PSA delivery.

PSAHelpline.ph is an online platform authorized by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to receive and process requests for civil registry documents. Through the website, Filipinos can conveniently order copies of their PSA birth certificate, marriage certificate, death certificate, CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage Record), CENODEATH (Certificate of No Death) online. Each order can be delivered directly to the requester’s address or claimed through partner outlets such as Robinsons Department Store branches. With secure payment options and nationwide coverage, PSAHelpline makes it faster and easier to get official PSA certificates without the need to visit a PSA office in person.

Why choose Robinsons Department Store pick-up instead of home delivery?

• No need to wait at home or coordinate with couriers. If your schedule makes doorstep receipt difficult, picking up your PSA birth certificate or other documents from a mall or department store gives you control over when to collect.

• Extended hours and convenience. Many RDS business centers operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., giving you flexibility beyond typical delivery windows. 

• Economical and practical. Opting for the Robinsons pick-up option saves you from the additional delivery handling cost while letting you claim your document at a time most convenient for you.

• Security and identity verification. The branch staff verifies your valid government ID against your application details before releasing the document

In short: if you would rather skip waiting at home, the Robinsons Department Store pick-up option gives you a reliable and flexible alternative to PSA delivery.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Order & Pick Up at Robinsons Department Store

Here’s how to use this pick-up option when ordering your PSA certificate online via PSAHelpline.ph:

1. Go to PSAHelpline.ph and start your application.
Choose the type of certificate you need (e.g. PSA birth certificate, PSA marriage, death, CENOMAR, or CENODEATH).

2. Select the pick-up option (Robinsons Department Store) as your delivery method.
On the delivery choice screen, choose “RDS Pick-Up” (Robinsons Department Store) instead of standard home delivery.

3. Pick your preferred Robinsons Department Store branch.
Browse the list of the 51 participating RDS locations (in major cities and provinces) and select the branch most convenient for you.

4. Pay for your order.
Payment can be done via credit card (Visa, Mastercard), e-wallets (GCash, Maya), online banking (Bayad Online), or over-the-counter options (7-Eleven, Bayad Centers, Palawan Pawnshop, Dragonpay).

5. Wait for the “ready for pick-up” notification.
Once PSAHelpline has processed your request and the certificate is ready at your chosen branch, you will be notified by SMS and email.

6. Visit the Robinsons Department Store branch and claim your certificate.
Bring the SMS/email notification plus your valid government-issued ID that matches the name used in your application. The staff at the RDS Business Center will verify and release your document.

7. Observe the 30-day claim period.
You must pick up your certificate within 30 calendar days from notification, or it will be retrieved for safekeeping.

What to Bring When Claiming Your Document

To ensure a smooth pick-up at any Robinsons Department Store:

• Original, valid government ID (e.g. PhilID, driver’s license, passport) matching exactly the name submitted in your PSA order.

• The SMS or email notification that your certificate is ready, and your order reference number.

• You must be the applicant because authorized representatives are not allowed. Only the person whose name is on the application can claim the certificate.

• In cases of name mismatch between your ID and application, PSAHelpline may request additional supporting documentation before release.

PSAHelpline.ph’s pick-up service at Robinsons Department Stores turns your local mall into a flexible collection point, especially suitable for those who cannot wait at home for their PSA delivery or risk missing courier windows. By combining PSA online ordering with the pick-up option, the process becomes more convenient, more secure, and more responsive to modern schedules.

If you are looking for ease, flexibility, and peace of mind when securing your PSA birth certificate (or any PSA document), the pick-up feature at Robinsons Department Stores is a compelling alternative to traditional home delivery. Give it a try the next time you order from PSAHelpline.ph and you’ll see how smoothly it fits into your day. 

Feel Yourself Pink Campus Tour: Avon Brings Breast Cancer Awareness Closer to the Youth

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women, affecting 1 in 8 globally. More women in their 20s and 30s are being diagnosed, disproving the belief that it’s “too early” to worry. Thankfully, early detection, when it is in its localized stages, has a 5-year relative survival rate of 99%.

Avon, one of the world’s leading beauty brands, has been at the forefront of the fight against breast cancer since 1992. For three decades, the brand has donated more than $951 million to breast cancer causes, educated 180 million people about the disease, and funded screenings for over 20 million women.

One of Avon’s key purpose-led initiatives is its Breast Cancer Promise, which ensures that women know the signs, know the risks, and know how to take action. The rise in diagnoses among younger women makes early awareness and preventive habits even more crucial than ever. 

A united movement for breast health

This October, Avon continues its commitment to Breast Cancer Awareness Month with the Feel Yourself Pink Campus Tour. The nationwide movement brings Avon’s advocacy to students by normalizing conversations about early detection and equipping the youth with lifelong habits that give them the knowledge and confidence to take charge of their breast health.

The tour is part of Avon’s larger “Pink” advocacy banner, which also ties in with the Avon Pink Bus mobile clinic in partnership with the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS), a longtime partner organization that allows the brand to create impact on a grassroots level, directly supporting breast cancer patients and survivors in their journey. Together, these initiatives ensure that awareness is paired with real access—delivering both education on campuses and life-saving screenings in communities.

Several of Avon’s celebrity ambassadors—Kyline Alcantara, Kaori Oinuma, Maymay Entrata, and Enchong Dee—will headline select stops to champion breast health.

The Pink Campus Tour will travel to the following universities in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao:

• October 17 - University of Santo Tomas (UST)

• October 21 - Far Eastern University (FEU) 

• October 24 -  Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU)

• October 27 - Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Sta. Mesa

• October 28 -  Adamson University (AdU)

• November 13 - National University (NU) Manila

• November 14 - De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB)

• November 21 – University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD)

• November 28 - West Visayas State University (WVSU)

The Pink Campus Tour is on the move until November, bringing the advocacy to more partner universities across the country. Follow Avon’s social pages for the latest campus stops!

“It’s never too early to take care of your breast health. Early detection can make a big difference, and I hope more young women feel comfortable talking about it. I’m glad to be part of Avon’s Pink Campus Tour so we can learn and remind each other to ‘feel yourself’ through regular self-checks and look after our health,” shared Kyline Alcantara, Avon Ambassador.

“For 139 years, Avon has been more than just a beauty brand. We’ve always been a brand with a purpose, and one of the causes closest to us is the fight against breast cancer. Our Breast Cancer Promise is about empowering everyone of all ages to act early, because self-checks are often the first step toward early detection—and early detection saves lives. By encouraging this awareness and action, we can make a meaningful impact on breast health across the country,” says Marion Limlengco, Head of Communications at Avon Philippines.

The Pink Campus Tour is made possible through Avon’s collaboration with advocacy partners, including ThinkPink.PH, GrabUnlimited, Move It, among others. Together with these organizations, a community is formed committed to empowering the youth with knowledge, access, and safe spaces to protect their health.

 “Early detection should be a habit, not a privilege. We are honored to support Avon and the Philippine Cancer Society to bring this conversation to where the next generation lives and learns. Together with our partners, we’re removing small frictions so young women can act early and confidently. Awareness saves lives, and routine protects them. And the progress we seek is simple and profound: years added to someone’s future,” added Grab Philippines Deputy Country Marketing Head Bea Bravo 

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Avon pledges to donate a percentage of proceeds from select products to the Philippine Cancer Society (PCS), reinforcing the brand’s commitment to its promise. Fundraising items include a curated range of beauty, fashion, intimate apparel, and body care essentials—giving customers meaningful ways to support the cause with every purchase.

Beyond the campus tour, Avon’s partnership with PCS extends to the Avon Pink Bus mobile clinic. Through this initiative, breast health consultations and screenings will be made accessible to Avon Representatives and associates, underscoring the company’s dedication to safeguarding the well-being of its own community.

Through both initiatives, Avon and its partners are working together to create a culture of awareness, access, and action—because early detection saves lives.

To learn more about breast health and the importance of early detection, visit ThinkPink.PH—a dedicated breast cancer awareness and education platform supported by Novartis, Avon’s key partner in the Pink movement. For more information about Avon’s products and causes they support, visit www.avon.ph or connect with your local Avon representative. 

Lazada Upskills Entrepreneurs at Alibaba Netpreneur Masterclass 2025

Leading eCommerce platform Lazada is strengthening its commitment to supporting all sellers as more Filipinos continue to launch and grow their businesses online. Now on its seventh year since starting in 2019, the Alibaba Netpreneur Masterclass remains a significant event. During the Alibaba Netpreneur Masterclass 2025 Closing Ceremony last August, led by Alibaba Global Initiatives (AGI), Lazada underscored its mission to help entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators leverage digital technology for business growth.

The Masterclass, which kicked off last July, offered free online courses during Phase 1, where over 300 entrepreneurs participated. The event also offered a full day of insightful sessions, including one from Lazada Philippines that provided valuable digital marketing strategies and best practices tailored for sellers. This breakout session focused on strengthening their online presence, understanding consumer behavior, and leveraging Lazada’s in-platform AI-powered tools to build visibility and trust - all crucial elements for success in specialized categories.

Beyond the sessions, the event also featured industry leaders from the Alibaba Netpreneur Training Program who shared practical frameworks for business growth. Attendees heard from program alumni and successful Lazada sellers, including Steve Sy of Great Deals and Jacqe Gutierrez of blk cosmetics, along with Yasmin Neri-Soyao of Shoppertainment Live. This October, Phase 2 of the program will take select participants to Hangzhou, China, where they will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Alibaba's headquarters, experience firsthand innovation, and engage in further training.

Through the Masterclass, Lazada also announced an upcoming collaboration between Lazada University, ProCredit Financing, and Gobi Partners, with programs that began rolling out last September. This partnership introduced a series of programs to provide sellers with financial literacy, funding readiness programs, and strategic planning for upcoming mega sale seasons like 11.11, and 12.12. 

“We are leveling the playing field for all eCommerce entrepreneurs,” said Alvin Ching, Lazada Philippines' head of seller operations. “Our goal is to give every seller - from the artisan coffee maker from Baguio to the handcrafted homeware creator from Iloilo - the same access to growth tools, marketing strategies, and funding opportunities that we offer to the biggest brands on our platform.”

Lazada’s involvement in the Alibaba Netpreneur Masterclass 2025, along with its continuous support through Lazada University and financial partnerships, reflects its broader mission to empower every seller. The goal is to provide them with the knowledge and resources to scale sustainably in the digital economy, turning passion projects into sustainable businesses.

Sign up to become a Lazada Seller today! 

Anko makes Christmas brighter with festive in-store experiences and holiday styling inspirations

The holiday spirit has arrived early as Anko, Australia’s much-loved home and lifestyle brand, has transformed its stores in TriNoma, Glorietta, and Alabang Town Center into festive wonderlands. From October 10 to 12, shoppers are invited to experience the magic firsthand through immersive displays and weekend activities designed to capture the joy of the holiday season.

From Christmas cotton candy and inspiring tablescapes to craft workshops, a calligraphy corner, and a photobooth for personalized keepsakes, every visit to Anko promises a moment to remember, turning ordinary shopping trips into a celebration of creativity, connection, and cheer.

Rachel Turner, Anko Philippines Country Manager, shared, “There’s a certain magic that only Christmas in the Philippines can bring – homes come alive, families gather, and everyday moments feel brighter. It’s only Anko’s second Christmas in the Philippines, but it’s the season where our mission of making everyday living brighter comes to life most vividly. From thoughtful gifts to festive home touches, Christmas is when stylish, quality products at affordable prices matter most to families.”

The festivities began with a touching surprise from Anko’s brand ambassador, Anne Curtis-Smith, who led a ₱10,000 shopping spree for a chosen nominee at the Trinoma branch. Anne joined the winner in curating their cart with festive décor, home essentials, and gift-worthy finds from Anko’s Christmas collection. The celebration continued with an intimate meet-and-greet with Anko Club members, where Anne shared her favorite Anko holiday pieces and styling tips.

“As a mom, I especially love how Anko’s vibrant, friendly pieces make the season even more magical for kids. It’s about creating a space where both the young and the young-at-heart feel the Christmas cheer,” the model-actress shared.

Anne also shared that Anko will be marking a special milestone this season with its first anniversary celebration on November 7 at Ayala Malls Glorietta 2, Palm Drive Activity Center. The event will feature exclusive activities for Anko Club members.

Shoppers are encouraged to join the Anko Club through the Anko App or at www.anko.com/anko-club, and to follow @anko_philippines on Instagram and TikTok for holiday styling inspirations and event updates.

Bring the Anko holiday into your home

To inspire even more holiday creativity, Anko collaborated with renowned interior designer IDr. Madelaine San Jose, founder of Design Gone Mads, to reimagine how Filipinos can bring the Anko holiday spirit into their own homes.

“Design should always feel within reach. That’s what makes Anko’s Christmas collection special. Every piece opens the door to creativity, inviting you to mix colors, textures, and personal stories that make the season your own,” San Jose explained.

During the morning workshops, San Jose shared our distinct styling themes that offer a fresh take on holiday decorating that balances style, personality, and affordability:

Retro Candy Cane

Joyful and nostalgic, Retro Candy Cane evokes the childlike wonder of Christmas using bright reds, soft whites, and playful patterns reminiscent of a classic holiday carnival. San Jose shared you can adorn your space with Candy Cane Baubles (₱190), Candy Cane Letter Decorations (₱90), and the Candy and Gift Garland (₱290). Complete the look with the Nutcracker Décor Set (36 pcs, ₱490) for a whimsical touch that radiates fun and love.

Traditional Cheer

Timeless and heartwarming, Traditional Cheer brings the magic of home to life with deep reds, velvety textures, and metallic accents. San Jose recommends pairing Christmas Berries in Pot (₱690) and Frosted Pine in Pot (₱690) with gold ornaments for a sophisticated yet cozy setup. Add a Bow Basket (₱440) or a Christmas Tree (₱2,140) as a centerpiece — a reminder that some traditions only grow more beautiful with time.

Natural Holiday

Soft, grounded, and serene, Natural Holiday celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Inspired by nature’s calm palette, this look layers soft neutrals, organic textures, and cozy fabrics. Create an inviting space with Christmas Wreath Cushions (₱440), Bow Cushions (₱690), and the Silk Striped Pillow Case (₱690). Complement with ceramic accents and wood finishes for a relaxed, coastal-inspired Christmas.

Seasonal Sparkle

For those who love quiet elegance, San Jose recommends following the Seasonal Sparkle theme, which glows with metallic hues, candlelight, and subtle glamour. Layer Light-Up Tree Cushions (₱690), Metallic Baubles (₱130), and Christmas Tinsels (₱90) for a radiant holiday glow. Serve drinks in Gingerbread, Santa, or Red Bauble Drink Jars (₱150) to add a refined, festive flourish.

From festive home décor to heartfelt gifting, Anko reminds Filipinos that celebrating the holidays doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. As the brand marks its first anniversary in the Philippines, it reaffirms its promise to make style and joy accessible to every home this Christmas and beyond.