The Plight of South East Asian Domestic Workers Through the Magic of Dance and Witchcraft

 

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), and the Goethe-Institut Philippinen, proudly presents Magic Maids, a cultural ritual and dance performance interlacing the fear and oppression of women from centuries ago to today, at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (CCP Black Box Theater) from November 7 to 9, 2025.

Conceptualized and choreographed by Eisa Jocson and Venuri Perera, Magic Maids is a dance performance that interweaves the complexities and similarities of maids to the trials and tribulations of witches. Through the lens of feminist resistance, the 80-minute performance is told through the perspective of both the witch and the maid, using the broom, not only as a metaphor for the shared experiences of prejudice and sacrifice, but also as a physical device that connects both archetypal figures.

The dance performance is a ritual, a collective retelling of the hushed stories of domestic workers in the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia, providing a broader perspective on the exploitation of labor in the Global South likened to the European witch hunts. 

Venuri Perera_Courtesy the artist

With Jocson and Perera born and raised from the Global South, it adds an extra layer of cultural and personal touch in the show’s storytelling through its ritual in denouncing the oppression of women that continues to haunt the globe and uplifting feminist resistance.

Eisa Jocson_Courtesy Rockbund Art Museum

On November 9 at 11:00 AM, Jocson and Perera will lead a workshop titled Broomology 101 at the TIG Lobby. In this session, the broom serves as a central axis linking the archetypes of the witch and the housemaid, becoming a tool for playful transformation and somatic exploration. Participants will explore what it means to extend themselves through the broom—merging, becoming wild, and engaging with the power of intention through movement and collective experience—while examining the spectrum between beauty and monstrosity. 

Jocson is an interdisciplinary artist based in La Union. With a background in ballet, she drifted towards the contemporary dance genre and pole dancing, which continues to amplify her work and exploration of body politics and exploitation of migrant work in her own country, the Philippines.

Perera is an independent creator from Colombo. She has curated and produced projects of the Colombo Dance Platform and is currently a member of the Dance Panel of the Arts Council in Sri Lanka. Her works focus on the patriarchy, colonialism and class struggle, a reflection of her own experiences and the collective experience of women in her nation.

Performances for ‘Magic Maids’ will be held on November 7 and 8, at 5pm, and November 9, at 8pm. Regular ticket price is Php600 and student discount ticket is priced at Php300 upon presentation of valid ID.

Interested workshop participants can register until November 4, 2025 through the registration link https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf3GUt_9AlzYuTEt31AiA-fhPT4A_FuctYhl1-Y4viMabAFjg/viewform. Selected participants will receive a confirmation from the Goethe-Institut.

To get the latest updates on CCP’s events, follow the official CCP social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) for more news.

Raise your glass at Araneta City’s exclusive beer & bites this Oktoberfest

 

Araneta City invites you to experience Oktoberfest like never before—a celebration where cold

mugs of beer, hearty food, and the joy of togetherness come alive in one unforgettable event.

What began as a festive tradition in Munich has blossomed into a global phenomenon, uniting

people across cultures with good food, great drinks, and cheerful toasts—an experience that

resonates deeply with Filipinos.

This October, the City of Firsts gives you even more reasons to raise a glass with a vibrant lineup of Oktoberfest-inspired feasts and festivities. Blending international flavors with the Filipino love for a tall, ice-cold pint, Araneta City brings you the perfect fusion of merriment and taste. Here’s where you can drink, dine, and celebrate all October long at Araneta City:

Double the fun, double the cheers at World Kitchens

Sometimes, the best moments happen over a shared plate and a cold drink. At World Kitchens, you can enjoy comfort food from around the globe while swapping stories with friends. Until October 31, try their Double the Cheers Around the World offer—order any

featured appetizer with two bottles of San Miguel Pale Pilsen or San Mig Light, and enjoy two extra beers on the house, plus a chance to win a set meal for six, all for just ₱599. The menu features familiar favorites and a few unexpected bites, like crispy calamares, deep-fried karaage, mozzarella dynamite, pizza margherita, and even spicy frog legs. It’s a flavorful way to toast to good company and great food, and it’s found at Gateway Mall 2.

Good times on tap at Farmers Plaza

Round up the barkada for a relaxed afternoon at Farmers Plaza’s Food Plaza and make the most of their Happy Hour Promo. Until October 31, drop by from 2 PM to 5 PM and enjoy a buy-one-get-one deal on San Miguel Pale Pilsen (₱100 per mug) or San Mig Light (₱110 per mug). Catch up with good friends and let time slow down with this refreshing deal.

A fiesta of flavor at Novotel Manila Araneta City

For those looking to add a Spanish twist to their Oktoberfest celebration, Novotel Manila Araneta City invites you to cheer, “Viva España!” with España en tu Mesa: Olé to Spanish Fiesta Feasts at Food Exchange Manila. From October 10 to November 30, enjoy a weekend buffet elevated by the rustic flavors of Spain. Indulge in free-flowing local beers alongside paellas, savory tapas, and decadent desserts. Families are welcome too, with kids aged eight and below dining for free, and special offers available through My Novotel Manila Boutique.

The beer is cold, the food is bold, and the celebrations are in full swing. From unique global flavors at World Kitchens to unbeatable happy hour deals at Farmers Plaza, and Spanish-style feasting at Novotel Manila Araneta City, there’s no better place to eat, drink, and make memories this Oktoberfest. Don’t just hear about it—gather your friends, head to Araneta City, and be part of the experience. The cheers, the bites, and the good times are waiting.

To know more about the latest promos, activities, and happenings at Araneta City, please visit

www.aranetacity.com. You may also like and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly

Twitter), and TikTok.

A Living Tapestry: Inside the 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair

 

The air inside the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall hums with the sound of weaving looms, soft laughter, and lively conversation. The scent of freshly polished wood mingles with the faint aroma of local coffee from one of the nearby booths. In every direction, color and texture fill the space — from hand-dyed fabrics and finely carved wooden furniture to delicate beadwork and handwoven baskets that carry the mark of both tradition and modern design.

This is the 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair (NACF), a celebration of Filipino creativity that brings together more than 300 exhibitors from across the country. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) through its Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP (BMDPO) in partnership with the Office of Senator Loren Legarda, the NACF has once again transformed the Megatrade Halls into a living museum of Philippine artistry.

The Country’s Creative Heartbeat

From opening day, visitors—families, students, collectors, and buyers—have come to experience how Filipino artisans are redefining tradition. In one corner, weavers from Kalinga demonstrate backstrap weaving as vivid geometric patterns come to life on the loom. Nearby, the T’boli of South Cotabato display their distinctive t’nalak cloth dyed with natural pigments. The Maranaw artisans present their brassware and torogan-inspired designs, while exhibitors from Antique proudly showcase patadyong weaves that carry the legacy of their province’s women’s cooperatives.

Every booth tells a story. Each artisan represents a community, a heritage, and a continuing dialogue between the past and the future.

Honoring the Masters

At the heart of the fair are the Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) awardees — the National Living Treasures whose mastery preserves the Philippines’ intangible cultural heritage. Their presence lends the event both prestige and purpose. Visitors gravitate towards them, amazed at the generational knowledge being preserved and passed down for future generations.

During the daily program, Schools of Living Traditions (SLTs) offer demonstrations of traditional crafts passed down through generations. Young apprentices share how their elders are teaching them to weave, carve, or mold clay by hand.

These cultural bearers remind everyone that heritage is not frozen in the past but continues to grow, adapt, and thrive.

Tradition Meets Modern Design

This year’s fair also shines a spotlight on innovation. Curated by the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP), several exhibits explore how traditional materials can take on new life through design collaboration. Modern furniture made from rattan, bamboo, and wood stand beside minimalist lighting fixtures crafted by artisans from Pampanga. Jewelry and fashion accessories reinvent indigenous motifs for the contemporary market.

Visitors can see how form and function coexist in the works on display. Even familiar crafts are reimagined through the creative use of color, pattern, and material.

Workshops and Live Demonstrations

Beyond the exhibits, the NACF’s daily schedule includes workshops, live performances, and business talks. Resource persons from partner agencies share insights on branding, product innovation, and intellectual property. Potters, weavers, and woodcarvers hold live demonstrations that captivate visitors and inspire future artisans.

For participants, the NACF is both an opportunity to connect with buyers and a venue for learning new ideas that can sustain their craft.

Partnerships that Empower Communities

The success of the NACF lies in the strong collaboration between government agencies and creative communities. The DTI-BMDPO continues to play a key role in helping artisans reach new markets through trade promotion and product development support. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) ensures that traditional knowledge is preserved, while the Design Center of the Philippines (DCP) bridges heritage and innovation through design thinking.

The Office of Senator Loren Legarda remains a steadfast partner in this endeavor. Since its inception, Legarda has envisioned the NACF as both a cultural and economic platform — one that recognizes the artistry of Filipino communities while providing them with opportunities for growth.

Senator Legarda has long supported the empowerment of local artisans, particularly women’s

cooperatives and weaving centers that sustain families through traditional crafts. Many of these groups are once again part of this year’s fair, sharing not only their products but also their stories of resilience and creativity.

“Every artisan who joins the fair brings with them the story of a community. Through their hands, we see how creativity can transform lives and how culture remains our strongest foundation for progress,” Legarda said.

A Celebration for All Filipinos

As the 7-day fair continues, the energy inside the Megatrade Halls buzz with energy and enthusiasm. Every day brings new faces, conversations, and discoveries. Students observe weaving techniques. Entrepreneurs explore partnerships. Tourists bring home handmade pieces that carry the spirit of the islands.

The NACF has grown beyond being a marketplace. It has become a meeting place for ideas, cultures, and generations. It invites visitors to see the beauty of Filipino craftsmanship not just as art to be admired, but as a living tradition to be supported and shared.

Visit the 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair

The 2025 National Arts and Crafts Fair runs from October 23 to 29, 2025, at the Megatrade Halls 1–3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City. Admission is free.

Experience the artistry of Filipino weavers, carvers, potters, and designers from all over the country. Discover handcrafted products that carry the stories of our communities and celebrate the creativity that continues to shape the nation’s identity.

For updates, follow DTI.BMDPO on Facebook and Instagram or email bmdpo@dti.gov.ph.

The NACF stands as a living testament to what happens when tradition, innovation, and community come together — a true tapestry of Filipino pride and craftsmanship.

The Healthy Way to Grieve

Remembering happy memories, funny anecdotes, and quirks helps with the healing process.

It begins with a loss—of a loved one, a relationship, a loyal pet—and triggers a reaction right there and then, or when you least expect it. One day you’re fine, the next thing you know, you’re in pieces. Emotions run the gamut, from a quiet, heartbroken sadness to an intense ugly cry.

Yes, there is no right or wrong way to grieve, so much so that you don’t have to go through psychiatrist Elizabeth Kübler-Ross’ five stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—in their exact order. “In fact, it’s perfectly all right to skip some, re-experience others, or feel things not mentioned by Dr. Ross, like shock or guilt,” says Jon Edward B. Jurilla, MD from the Department of Psychiatry of top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Grief is a very personal experience. No two people grieve alike.”

Well-meaning family and friends can also be divided on how long you should grieve. Some will tell you to take as much time as you need, others hope you move on sooner than later. “Grief is a natural, human response that can be physically and emotionally gut-wrenching,” explains Dr. Jurilla. “Losing a spouse, parent, or child can feel like losing a part of you, because in reality, they were.”

The first step to healing? “Acknowledge your feelings,” Dr. Jurilla points out. “Don’t suppress them or judge yourself for crying or screaming. Allow yourself to express sadness, anger, regret, and whatever feelings that come up.”

Talk about it. “Whether with a close family member, a trusted confidant, a spiritual adviser, or a trained professional, saying your thoughts out loud can be cathartic,” says Dr. Jurilla.

Find other ways to express your grief. “You could write your thoughts down in a journal or go for long walks in nature,” Dr. Jurilla suggests. “The quiet time could give you clarity.”

Have company. “Surround yourself with people who genuinely care about you. You can also find comfort in support groups whose members are going through a similar experience.”

Take care of yourself. “Grief can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Make sure you eat and get enough sleep. Allow others to look out for you too. If someone offers to take you out to lunch, buy you groceries, or drive you where you need to go, graciously accept.”

 Keep the one you lost close. “Saving a picture of that person on your phone or wallet or wearing a piece of jewelry or article of clothing that belonged to them can somehow feel like they’re still around. This softens the blow of your loss.”

Remember the good times. “Recalling happy memories, funny anecdotes, and quirks that made you love this person will give you a respite from all the tears.”

Take things one day at a time. As mentioned, grieving is a natural process, and whatever you’re feeling is totally valid. “Eventually, as time passes and your sadness slowly gives way to a calm acceptance, that doesn’t mean you love the person or thing you lost any less,” says Dr. Jurilla. “It simply means that they live on in your memories and in your heart.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Holiday Travel Made Easy: 3 Ways to Beat the Christmas Rush

 

Between group chats that can’t decide where to go, sold-out stays, and flights that suddenly cost more than your 13th-month pay, holiday travel planning already feels like a sport. Your wallet’s crying before you’ve even booked a ticket, and that konting budget? Lalong ‘di kakasya kasi mahal lahat!

Holiday travel hits different—it’s exciting but expensive, and the chaos can test even the most seasoned traveler. But don’t hang up your travel goals just yet—here are three foolproof, wallet-friendly ways to make it through the holiday rush and actually get to your destination, stress-free:

1. Book Now, Pay Later — Even If You Missed the Seat Sale or Dream Stay

Holiday travel season is when flights sell out fast, hotels get fully booked, and prices skyrocket

overnight. The solution? Plan early and book smart with GGives. It lets you secure flight and hotel deals of up to ₱125,000 while prices are still low, then pay later in easy, budget-friendly installments.

No more “book now, cry later”—just smooth, stress-free planning with no down payment required. So skip the payday panic and last-minute price hikes—booking early and still having a budget left for pasalubong. That’s the real travel win.

2. Keep Your Budget Intact with a Fuss-Free Credit Line for Smooth Trips

That “I deserve this” feeling hits hard during the holidays—and so does the panic when you check your remaining balance. Between food trips, travel essentials like groceries, gas, and RFID load, plus last- minute gifts and unplanned pasalubong, expenses can pile up fast. That’s where GCredit comes in.

With a flexible credit line of up to ₱50,000 (depending on eligibility), GCredit helps you cover

unplanned costs—whether it’s meals, activities, or that unexpected “treat yourself” moment. It’s the spending sidekick that keeps your trip smooth, your wallet steady, and your holiday worry-free.

3. Travel with Confidence — Keep Your Peace of Mind Wherever You Go

You’ve packed your essentials and planned every detail—but what about peace of mind? Travel hiccups like flight delays, lost luggage, or sudden tummy aches can happen anytime. That’s where GInsure comes in, giving you protection that keeps you covered when the unexpected strikes.

For as low as ₱299, Standard Insurance Travel Protect International or Saver Plus (for local

travels, P103) provides coverage for travel inconveniences, emergency medical assistance, and personal accidents—up to ₱2.5 million. It’s simple, affordable protection that lets you enjoy your trip worry-free. Because while you can’t control delays, you can control your peace of mind.

Find out what stress-free travel feels like when you GCash Your Way This Holiday

No more overthinking, no more “next year na lang.” Tuloy ang travel goals this holiday season—because real travel freedom isn’t about how light your luggage is, but how light your worries are.

With GCash every step of your trip, from booking to coming home, is smoother and stress-free. So go ahead, pack your bags (not your stress)—you’ve got the guts and the funds to make every holiday merry, not heavy.

If you’re eligible, you can activate GGives by going to "Borriw" then clicking "GGives". Fill out the quick application form, and once you're activated, you'll see your available credit limit! Note that your offer is subject to regular evaluation. To activate GCredit, go to "Borrow" then click "GGives"; Fill out your details, complete your registration, and submit to view your credit limit.

With GInsure on GCash, you can secure comprehensive travel insurance in just a few taps, ensuring that your adventures are protected.

Ready to hop on your next flight? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

Access GCredit and GGives through your GCash dashboard or find them under “Borrow.” No GCash yet? Download the GCash App on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery.

PUMA Reimagines Legacy Design with H-Street Premium’s Iconic Silhouette

 

PUMA H-Street Premium

PUMA originally debuted the H-Street in 2003, drawing inspiration from the early 2000s “Harambee” running spike, blending agility and speed with a lightweight, low-profile design. Now, PUMA reintroduces this classic with the H-Street Premium, a silhouette that fuses sprinting heritage with modern street culture. Building on the success of last August’s renewed PUMA H-Street, this updated iteration reimagines the era when track and field seamlessly merged with streetwear.

Refined Colors for the Season

PUMA H-Street Premium in Alpine Snow-Warm White-Gum

For its latest drop, the PUMA H-Street Premium arrives in three, versatile colorways. Starting with the Alpine Snow-Warm White-Gum a clean, minimalist blend for everyday street style. Brandy-Toasted Almond-Gum a warm brown vintage-inspired palette that pairs classic tones with modern streetwear look. Finally, the Black-Shadow Gray-Gum gives a sleek dark finish for those who prefer a laid-back cool look for any get-up.

PUMA H-Street Premium in Brandy-Toasted Almond-Gum 

The PUMA H-Street Premium soft tones and natural finishes give the sneaker a refined, easy-to-style look while still carrying the performance-inspired DNA of its origins. The mix of premium suede uppers, rounded toe, and gum soles further showcase it as an understated but timeless aesthetic.

PUMA H-Street Premium in Black-Shadow Gray-Gum 

From Track Roots to Street Culture

At its core, the Premium H-Street stays true to its sprinting heritage while evolving for everyday wear. The regular fit and lace closure provide a secure, personal feel, while the moulded footbed and cushioned EVA midsole deliver lasting comfort for hours on the move. A

synthetic lining and flat heel add to the lightweight ease, making the pair as effortless on a casual day out as it is stylish on the streets. Every detail carries the original influence of a performance shoe, now refined for modern street culture.

Make Your Move with PUMA H-Street Premium

The PUMA H-Street Premium will officially drop today, October 17, 2025, exclusively at

Commonwealth with a retail price of ₱5,500, followed by a wider release on PUMA.com starting October 24.

Learn more about the PUMA H-Street Premium. Follow PUMA Philippines’ Instagram and

Facebook account for the latest updates and releases. For more information, please visit www.puma.com

Roberto Martin Sing launches his first Solo Exhibit at Gateway Gallery

 

Pure (Cool Waters 44)

Artist and educator Roberto Martin Sing will launch his official career as an artist with his first solo exhibition “Cool Waters.” The Cool Waters series is rooted in the philosophy that art can and should function as a source of Contemplative Solace. For Sing, whose professional life as an educator took place amidst the demanding environment of Metro Manila, the recurring subject of the freshwater stream represents a magical and necessary Escapism.

This series by Sing consciously rejects artistic provocation, dedicating itself instead to the singular mission of invoking peace, healing, and positive emotional refuge from the pressures of modern life through art.

Balancing Act (Cool Waters 43)

This mission of emotional nourishment aligns with the core of Aestheticism—the value of "art for art's sake"—but shifts its focus from pure sensation to pure tranquility. The goal is an experience of deep repose, a concept that echoes the contemplative value of art described by figures like Arthur Schopenhauer, who saw aesthetic experience as a temporary escape from the constant striving and suffering of the will.

Cool Waters

Beyond its restorative purpose, the series is a ten-year journal of artistic discipline and growth. The paintings serve as a living record of the artist’s academic philosophy: a practice built upon the rigorous, sustained study of the Old Masters' methods. With each painting, the artist actively integrates new knowledge, harnessing different mediums and techniques to demonstrate a commitment to the continuous evolution and mastery of craft.

The Cool Waters series ultimately reflects a deep-seated, threefold purpose: First, to pay reverence to the history of painting by diligently building upon the foundational techniques of admired masters and mentors; second, to deliver a clear message of positive emotional solace to every viewer; and third, to fulfill a personal commitment to the cultivation of ability akin to the Parable of the Talents.

Cool Waters will have its Artist’s Reception on October 18, 2025, at 5 pm. The exhibit will run until October 25, 2025 at the Studio of Gateway Gallery.

Gateway Gallery is the art museum of Araneta City. It is open daily, from 10 am to 6 pm, as a free admission art museum. It is located at the 5F Gateway Tower, Araneta City.

For inquiries on the exhibit and other programs, email us at gatewaygallery@aranetagroup.com, or call +63 2 825 3012. Connect also with Gateway Gallery’s social media accounts at Facebook (GatewayGalleryPH), Instagram (gateway.gallery), Twitter (gateway_gallery), and YouTube Channel (Gateway Gallery).

K-Drama hits come alive in OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert

 

The magic of Korean drama is set to return to the concert stage as the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC), and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) proudly present OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert, on October 25, 2025 at the Samsung Hall, SM Aura in Taguig City - with two shows at 2:00 PM and 6:30 PM.

OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert is in partnership with the Korea Tourism Organization - Manila Office (KTO), the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), SM Supermalls, VIU Philippines, and GMA.

Following the overwhelming success of its debut last year, OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert will once again bring drama, nostalgia, and well-loved soundtracks to life—this time, with even grander performances from the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO).

At the heart of this concert is the PPO led by Maestro Herminigildo Ranera. Fresh from their successful UK tour, PPO will perform powerful and heart-stirring renditions of beloved K-Drama soundtracks. From the adrenaline-filled beats of Maggie Kang’s K-pop Demon Hunters to the tender melodies of Crash Landing on You and the tear-jerking When Life Gives You Tangerines, the night hosts a journey through the emotions that made every K-Drama unforgettable.

OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert also features an exciting lineup of guest performers, including Korean singer-songwriter Hong Isaac and rising artist YEGNY, alongside Filipino artists Kyline Alcantara and Angel Guardian. These stars will add flair to the concert, bridging cultures through songs that celebrate both Korean and Filipino artistry.

Before the concert, KCC will also hold a K-OST and K-Show Production Workshop in partnership with GMA, gathering some of Korea’s leading music and show producers for a one-day creative exchange with Filipino professionals. The initiative aims to bring both industries closer and spark new opportunities for collaboration in storytelling and production.

This year’s concert also shines a spotlight on Gyeongju, the host city of the upcoming 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Korea. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Gyeongju is bringing a piece of its charm to Manila through a promotional booth at the concert lobby, where guests can learn more about the city’s history and attractions. The space is complemented by a K-Drama merchandise display, offering fans an added layer of appreciation and a closer look at the cultural stories that inspire their favorite shows.

With a full house of K-drama fans, music lovers, and cultural enthusiasts, OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert will once again showcase that great stories know no borders—and that the universal language of music continues to unite hearts, one heartfelt soundtrack at a time.

OST Symphony II: K-Drama in Concert is free and open to the public. Tickets will be available soon through smtickets.com. For more information, follow the official accounts of the CCP, KCC, and NCCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. Explore the latest in the Philippine arts and culture scene by visiting the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph).

Do hormones have a role in developing breast cancer?

 

The Breast Imaging Center at Makati Medical Center features advanced technology to aid in the early detection of breast cancer.

There are two hormones responsible for ensuring that a woman’s reproductive system does its job well. The first is estrogen, which regulates the menstrual cycle and prepares the uterus for pregnancy; and the other one is progesterone, which thickens the lining of the uterus to receive a fertilized egg and is key to breasts producing milk. Together, they are also known for regulating mood, maintaining bone health, and contributing to brain function.

Hormone therapy has also shown to reduce the incidence of breast cancer recurrence and improve survival rates.

But prolonged exposure to estrogen and progesterone, or a high level of these hormones in the system, increases a woman’s risk for developing breast cancer because they fuel the growth of hormone-sensitive or hormone-dependent breast cancer cells.

“Hormone-sensitive breast cancer cells contain hormone receptors—estrogen receptors or ERs, and progesterone receptors or PRs. These receptors are proteins that activate when hormones bind to them,” explains Melodie Grace M. Remorca, MD from the Breast Imaging Center of top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Once activated, these receptors affect specific genes, which, in turn, stimulate cell growth.”

Once thought to be caused by genetics (actress Angelina Jolie famously underwent a preventive double mastectomy in 2013 after learning she had the mutated BRCA1 gene, which puts her at risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer) or unhealthy lifestyle practices, the disease can be triggered by hormones too. About 2 out of 3 breast cancers are hormone receptor-positive, says the American Cancer Society.

Hormone-sensitive breast cancer is treated with hormone therapy, which works by reducing the production of estrogen and progesterone in the body, or by preventing hormones from binding to the receptors on cancer cells.

“Depending on the type of hormone therapy, this protocol can also slow the growth of cancer that has spread, and lower the risk of cancer developing in other breast tissue,” the doctor says. Used in combination with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, hormone therapy can be given prior to surgery to shrink the tumor, making it easier for doctors to remove. When given after surgery, a patient takes it for at least five years.

If you note any symptoms of breast cancer (a lump in your breast, nipple inversion or discharge, changes in the size or shape of your breast), see a specialist immediately for an initial screening.

Hailed as the pioneer in breast imaging in the Philippines, the Breast Imaging Center at MakatiMed has offered cutting-edge and cost-effective breast cancer imaging services since 1993—from the digital breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography) to breast ultrasound (sonomammogram).

Run by an all-women team of breast radiologists, specialized radiologic technologists, specialty-trained nurses, and admin staff, the clinic also conducts ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy, stereotactic core needle biopsy, wire needle localization, cyst aspiration, fine needle aspiration biopsy, biopsy clip placement, and galactography (a medical imaging procedure used to visualize the milk ducts of the breast).

High-tech imaging and interventional procedures can determine whether you do have breast cancer, and the appropriate steps to address it.

“Hormone therapy is regarded as an effective approach to treating hormone-sensitive breast cancer. It has also shown to reduce the incidence of recurrence and improve survival rates,” shares Dr. Remorca. “Of course, the type and stage of the cancer and a patient’s overall health ultimately play a role in a patient’s prognosis, so early detection is still crucial to a favorable outcome.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Big Bad Wolf Books Kicks Off the BER Months with a Massive Book Sale Adventure in Filinvest Tent, Don’t Miss the Last Leg in the Metro

 

The BER months are here, and Big Bad Wolf Books is giving readers a festive reason to celebrate early! Running until October 13, 2025, at The Filinvest Tent in Metro Manila, this massive book sale brings over two million titles to Metro Manila’s South. From bestsellers and TikTok favorites to timeless classics and inspiring reads, every book lover can find something to kick off the season of giving in the best way possible—with stories to share.

Whether you’re starting your holiday shopping early or simply adding to your own collection, the Wolf is ready to help you hunt for the perfect reads and deals before the season rush begins.

As the Big Bad Wolf Books Sale enters its final days at the Filinvest Tent, now’s the time to get a head start on your BER-month book hunt. From TikTok-famous novels like the ‘The Friend Zone’ by Abby Jimenez to interactive children’s stories like ‘JJ'S Busy Day (Cocomelon)’ by Maria Le, Big Bad Wolf’s shelves are stacked high with titles to match the warmth and wonder of the season:

JJ’s Busy Day

Author: Maria Le

Original Price: Php 1,150

The Friend Zone

Author: Abby Jimenez

Original Price: Php 800

BBW Price: Php 340

The Korean Book of Happiness

(Hardcover)

Author: Barbara J. Zitwer

Original Price: Php 1,300

The Night Road

Author: Kristin Hannah

Original Price: Php 850

BBW Price: Php 400

Joy at Work

Author: Marie Kondo and Scott Sonenshein

Original Price: Php 1,386

BBW Price: Php400

TheBrothers Hawthorne

Author: Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Original Price: Php 1,359

BBW Price: Php 560

Whether you’re looking for inspiration, laughter, or a spark of creativity, there’s a book waiting to set the tone for the months ahead. Every story is a small celebration — and every turn of the page brings the holidays a little closer.

From thoughtful presents to personal goals, these last days are the perfect opportunity to fill your shelves and your gift lists with stories that inspire, entertain, and comfort.

The season’s best book deals, from heartwarming novels and business bestsellers to children’s picture books and holiday-themed stories, are waiting to be discovered.

Hunt, Shop, and Win Big in the Raffle!

Shoppers can make their Big Bad Wolf Books Sale experience even more exciting with the limited-time raffle promo, where every P5,000 spent in a single receipt earns one raffle entry. Submit your receipt and entry at the Raffle Booth located in the

Customer Service area.

Prizes up for grabs:

● Minor Prize: IKEA bookshelf with decals plus 100 books worth P300 each

● Major Prize: An iPad for the ultimate reading and digital experience

● Grand Prize: A 3-day getaway for two with hotel stay included

Winners will be announced on October 11, 2025, at 11:45 PM, so don’t miss your chance to hunt, shop, and win big before the Wolf howls goodbye!

Sharing Stories to Change Lives

Beyond the excitement of the sale, Big Bad Wolf Books continues its advocacy of promoting literacy and accessibility through its Red Readerhood Program. Caritas Manila, is one of the country’s largest non-profit organizations dedicated to alleviating poverty through education, livelihood, and social services. Through the Red Readerhood booth at the sale, visitors can donate books directly to Caritas Manila, helping bring the joy of reading to families and communities in need.

Visitors can take part in this meaningful cause by purchasing any book at the Sale and donating it at the Red Readerhood Booth, located near the checkout counters. Shoppers simply select a book, pay and inform the cashier that it’s for donation, and drop it off at the booth where it will later be turned over to Caritas Manila.

To help more people understand the cause, Caritas Manila also has a dedicated booth at the event, where guests can drop by to learn more about the organization’s advocacy and ongoing programs that uplift communities through education and social development.

Through this simple yet powerful act, every visitor has the chance to share the joy of reading with families and communities in need. Each purchase and donation made at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale fuels this shared mission of changing the world, one book at a time.

Don’t Miss the Final Days of the Filinvest Sale

Big Bad Wolf Books’ Alabang sale is roaring through its final stretch, and this is your last chance to start the BER months with books, bargains, and boundless fun.

● Venue: The Filinvest Tent, Alabang

● Dates: Until October 13, 2025

● Hours: Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday–Sunday: 10:00 AM –

12:00 Midnight

Admission is free, so bring your pack, bring your lists, and bring your holiday spirit — because the Wolf won’t be in town for long! For more information on upcoming sales and updates, visit Big Bad Wolf Books’ website or follow their official social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.