How often do you go to the bathroom to pee?

 

Frequency in peeing is affected by several factors, including age, liquid intake, specific medical conditions, and bladder size.

Its official term is micturition, but to us, it’s simply urinating or peeing, a natural and necessary function of a healthy human body. “Urination helps cleanse the body of toxins, excess sodium and fluid, and metabolic waste,” says Rolando Guillermo O. Saulog, MD, a Urology Doctor at top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed).

On average, a person pees between 6 to 7 times a day, but if you are taking more (or less) trips to the bathroom, there’s no real need to worry. “If you go only four times in a 24-hour span, it is fine. And if you go 10 times, that’s okay too.”

According to Dr. Saulog, the number of times you urinate per day depends on the following factors:

Age. “As we grow older, our bladder (which stores urine) does not expand as much, so it fills up faster, making our visits to the bathroom more frequent. Menopause and the decreasing production of the estrogen hormone can also affect bladder function.”

What and how much you drink. “Alcohol and caffeine are forms of diuretics, which prompt the kidneys to release extra fluid from the blood vessels. Consume copious amounts of coffee, tea, beer, or wine, and you can expect to spend a lot of time in the toilet.”

Pregnancy. “Mothers-to-be can chalk up peeing often to hormonal changes (an increase of progesterone relaxes the muscles, including those in the bladder), extra fluid and blood produced by the body, and weakened pelvic floor muscles due to an expanding uterus.”

Specific medical conditions. “If you need to urinate often, only yield small amounts each time, you may have a urinary tract infection (UTI). Diabetes can also cause you to urinate frequently, as it is the body’s way of emptying the bloodstream of excess sugar. Low potassium, too much or too little calcium, an enlarged prostate, congestive heart failure, painful bladder syndrome, and kidney issues can also make you visit the bathroom several times.”

Medicines. “Diuretics in pill form are given to individuals with high blood pressure, heart failure, edema, kidney disease, and liver disease. Certain medicines for diabetes and mental health can also make you pee more than average.”

Bladder size. “A man’s bladder can hold as much as 700 ml of urine, while a woman’s bladder can store about 500 ml.”

On the flip side, MakatiMed says that oliguria or urinating only 1-2 times in 24 hours (that’s peeing less than 400-500 ml a day) could be due to dehydration, blockages in the urinary tract, or infection.

When should you see your doctor? “Definitely when your peeing includes pain or a burning sensation, or when pain is felt in your lower back, pelvis, or genitals,” says Dr. Saulog. “Blood in the urine is also a cause for concern, as is incontinence or difficulty controlling your pee.”

Other signs that a consultation with a health practitioner is in order: urine that is cloudy, dark, and foul- smelling.

Tests help pinpoint the cause of your tendency to pee often or not enough. Results from a urinalysis will give your doctor an idea of the color, appearance, and microscopic contents of your sample. A kidney functioning test, which relies on a blood test and urine sample, can gauge how well your kidneys are working. Imaging tests (x-ray, ultrasound, MRI, CT scan) will reveal if peeing too much or too little comes from a pre-existing or newly discovered medical condition. A uroflowmetry test (available in MakatiMed) is a simple, non-invasive test used to evaluate how the bladder is working, often to detect why a patient has frequent or urge to urinate, a weak or slow urinary stream, difficulty starting urination, or a feeling that the bladder is not empty after urinating.

“Healthy living ensures efficient and natural urination,” reminds Dr. Saulog. “Stay hydrated. Eat fruits and vegetables and foods rich in probiotics; they may help address recurring UTI. Avoid too much caffeine and alcohol. Pee and cleanse using an unscented soap after sexual intercourse to lower your risk of developing UTI. Women can also reduce the risk of UTI by wiping from front to back after peeing.”

“Most important: Do not hold back your pee. Go when you feel like it.”

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.

Starbucks Philippines Invites Everyone to be a Community Champion This Global Month of Good

 

As part of its annual Global Month of Good celebration, Starbucks Philippines is reinforcing its commitment to the communities it serves – while inviting more Filipinos to take part in their own way.

This year, Starbucks highlights a simple but powerful idea: anyone can be a Community Champion through small, everyday actions that create meaningful change for the environment, the community, and other people.

“Our local initiatives are grounded in the belief that meaningful change starts with strong community connections,” said Jamie Silva, senior manager for Marketing, Digital Customer Experience and Social Impact, Starbucks Philippines. “From education to disaster response initiatives and partner volunteerism, 2025 reflects how collective action can create lasting impact.”

In 2026, Starbucks Philippines is expanding its community impact initiatives through strengthened partnerships, improved access to essentials, and more opportunities for both partners (employees) and customers to take part in meaningful action.

Supporting Communities Where They Need the Most

Through its partnership with Planet Water Foundation and The Starbucks Foundation, Starbucks Philippines provides clean water access and hygiene education to an estimated 42,400 people in various regions around the country. This April, a ninth AquaTower will be installed in Camarines Sur, extending access to safe drinking to around 7,000 more individuals.

Starbucks Philippines also continues its longstanding partnership with HOPE to support education. Each year, Starbucks partners (employees) come together to help build safe and inspiring learning spaces for underserved communities. This year marks the completion of a sixth public school classroom in Sarangani in April, helping provide safe and conducive learning spaces for students in the community.

Alongside its community initiatives, Starbucks Philippines is also strengthening its sustainability efforts within its store operations. Starbucks Philippines has partnered with MPower to supply electricity to around 60 Metro Manila stores under the Retail Aggregation Program. This partnership is expected to result in improved operational efficiency while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

Continuing Efforts Powered by Volunteerism

Starbucks’ commitment to being a Community Champion is also reflected through volunteerism and everyday participation.

Starbucks Community Stores in Abad Santos, Tondo, and Maysilo Circle continue to support education programs in partnership with AHA! Learning Center, Young Focus Foundation, and Mano Amiga Philippines. To date, more than 1,500 learners have benefited from after-school sessions, literacy development activities, and leadership-building programs that help them gain confidence and stay engaged in school.

Addressing food insecurity remains a key focus. Through its FoodShare program, Starbucks has redirected nearly 3 million rescuable food items from close to 300 stores nationwide. In partnership with The Philippine Food Bank Foundation and Grab Philippines, surplus food is distributed to various communities.

Beyond these organized programs, Starbucks encourages customers to take part in simple, everyday actions throughout Global Month of Good. In their own small way, store visits can become part of the impact. Customers can use for-here ware or bring their own tumblers for their coffee orders and enjoy a PHP 10 discount.

Simple actions, when done together, can create a meaningful impact over time. This Global Month of Good, everyone is invited to be a Community Champion. To learn more about the Global Month of Good, visit starbucks.ph/social-impact.

Araneta City, JAAF expand support for Filipino weavers through HIBLA

 

Araneta City and its corporate social responsibility arm, the J. Amado Araneta Foundation (JAAF), are launching HIBLA: Tradition Woven Forward, a reimagined cultural initiative that expands its annual trade fair into a broader, future‑forward program supporting Filipino weavers and preserving indigenous textile traditions.

from Habi Fiesta 2024 02

“Hibla, meaning ‘fiber’ or ‘strand,’ perfectly encapsulates the essence of what we aim to achieve,” said Diane Romero, Executive Director of JAAF. “Each thread tells a story—of our history, our communities, and our future.”

HIBLA builds on the legacy of Habi Fiesta!, which was held in 2024 and 2025 as a stand‑alone trade fair at Gateway Mall 1, Araneta City. For 2026, Araneta City and JAAF are expanding the initiative into a program that supports weavers beyond the marketplace.

The expanded program introduces capacity‑building opportunities, creative collaborations, and recognition platforms designed to help artisans sustain and grow their practice in a modern economy. This marks a strategic shift toward a holistic platform that strengthens artisan communities while bringing Philippine weaving to contemporary audiences.

from Habi Fiesta 2025 03

“HIBLA honors a legacy rooted in our founder, J. Amado Araneta, through the spirit of ‘Tradition Woven Forward,’” Romero said. “We are not only preserving heritage, but actively propelling it into modern relevance by opening market access, bringing indigenous textiles to the mainstream, and inspiring new applications that ensure their lasting impact.”

The centerpiece of HIBLA is the three‑day Weavers’ Fair, set from May 15 to 17, 2026, at the Quantum Skyview, Gateway Mall 2. Open to the public, the fair will showcase a diverse range of Filipino handwoven textiles and products directly from partner weaver communities.

Proceeds from the Weavers’ Fair will benefit the Gateway Gallery, the art museum of Araneta City, helping support its 2027 public programs and reinforcing the City’s commitment to accessible cultural spaces.

Beyond the retail fair, HIBLA also includes:

 Capacity‑building sessions and workshops offering training in branding and digital

storytelling

 HIBLA limited‑edition merchandise, translating traditional patterns into modern,

functional designs

 The HIBLA Awards, recognizing excellence in craftsmanship, storytelling, and visual

presentation

“Through HIBLA, we invite Filipinos to engage with Philippine textiles beyond simply shopping,” Romero said. “It is an invitation to be part of a living legacy—one that continues to evolve while remaining rooted in tradition.”

Training Institutes in Abu Dhabi: Nursing Assistant Courses & First Aid Training

 

Abu Dhabi has emerged as a leading hub for professional education and vocational training in the UAE. With the rapid growth of the healthcare sector, training institutes in the city offer a wide range of specialized programs, including nursing assistant courses and first aid training. These programs are designed to equip students with practical skills, internationally recognized certifications, and strong career opportunities in healthcare and safety.

Training Institutes in Abu Dhabi

Training institutes in Abu Dhabi provide diverse educational programs in healthcare, business, IT, and safety. Institutions such as Annex Training Institute are known for offering professional courses tailored to industry needs.

These institutes focus on:

 Hands-on practical learning

 Flexible class schedules (weekend and weekday options)

 Internationally accredited certifications

 Experienced trainers and modern facilities

Many institutes also collaborate with regulatory bodies and global organizations to ensure quality education and employability.

Nursing Assistant Course in Abu Dhabi

One of the most popular healthcare programs is the Certified Nursing Assistant course (CNA). Institutes like Al Manal Training Center and Annex Training Institute offer structured CNA programs designed for beginners entering the medical field.

Course Overview

A nursing assistant course prepares students to work alongside nurses and doctors in hospitals, clinics, and care homes. The curriculum typically includes:

 Patient care and hygiene

 Monitoring vital signs

 Infection control and safety

 Basic anatomy and physiology

 Emergency care and first aid

These programs usually last between 2 to 6 months, depending on the institute and training

level.

Skills Gained

Students develop essential healthcare skills such as:

 Assisting patients with daily activities

 Communication and teamwork in clinical environments

 Handling medical equipment

 Providing compassionate care

Career Opportunities

After completing the course, graduates can work as:

 Nursing assistants

 Patient care assistants

 Caregivers in hospitals or home care settings

The demand for nursing assistants in the UAE is increasing due to the expansion of healthcare services.

First Aid Training in Abu Dhabi

First aid training is another essential course offered by many training centers, including PrimeXperts Training & Consultancy and Onyx Education and Development Institute.

Course Content

First aid courses teach participants how to respond to emergencies effectively. Key topics

include:

 CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

 Use of AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

 Treating wounds, burns, and bleeding

 Managing choking and breathing emergencies

 Basic life-saving techniques

These courses are typically short, ranging from 3 hours to one day, and provide certifications

valid for up to two years.

Who Should Take This Course?

First aid training is beneficial for:

 Healthcare workers

 Teachers and caregivers

 Corporate employees

 General public

Importance of First Aid Training

First aid knowledge can save lives in critical situations. It helps individuals respond quickly and confidently before professional medical help arrives.

Why Choose Abu Dhabi for Healthcare Training?

Abu Dhabi offers a strong educational environment with:

 Internationally recognized certifications

 Modern training facilities

 High demand for healthcare professionals

 Short-term courses with quick job entry

Healthcare training programs in Abu Dhabi emphasize both theoretical knowledge and real-

world practice, making graduates job-ready.

Conclusion

Training institutes in Abu Dhabi play a vital role in developing skilled professionals, especially

in the healthcare sector. Nursing assistant courses provide an excellent entry point into medical careers, while first aid training equips individuals with life-saving skills.

Whether you are looking to start a healthcare career or simply want to learn emergency response skills, Abu Dhabi offers high-quality training programs that combine education, certification, and practical experience.

3 Lessons from Women Who Successfully Built Careers in Freelancing

 

Mia and Dana share their freelancing journey and career growth at the She Talks Asia Summit 2026.

Earning through freelance work has never been more accessible. With a stable internet connection and numerous job platforms, opportunities can come from anywhere – and for many Filipino women, they do. A 2020 study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) showed that an increasing number of women are engaging in online work because it lets them earn while balancing home responsibilities.

But access doesn’t always mean ease. Freelancers face inconsistent income, unpredictable clients, and little guidance on how to navigate it all. For longtime freelancers Mia Juan and Dana Novales, building a career online has meant learning these lessons in real time. With more women entering the freelancing field, they share three lessons they’ve learned:

1. Build real relationships, not just transactions.

Freelancing can make work feel transactional. You get assigned a task, submit the work, get paid, and then move on. But the most successful freelancers don’t treat work that way. In such an unpredictable field, being remembered matters.

According to Dana, “Real relationships are built on service, not strategy.” Every “Well done!” or “Good work!” can open doors to new opportunities, so don’t waste them. Instead, take an extra step to establish a real relationship with your clients: check in, understand what they need, and find ways to make the process easy for them.

2. Set up systems that work for you.

Handling different clients with different ways of working can get overwhelming fast. For Mia, having systems for your workflow simply makes this easier and helps manage client expectations.

A look into Mia’s workstation, where she manages her daily freelance work and tasks

3. Find solutions that work for your peace of mind. 

Some challenges only appear once you’re in the midst of them, and for many freelancers, realizing that foreign payments come with fees, delays, and uncertainty is when freelancing starts to feel stressful.

A closer look at Dana’s work routine, which includes various creative works for her clients

“Earning in USD sounds exciting–until fees, forex, and delays eat into your income,” Dana points out. She shares that this is something she wishes she had known earlier in her freelancing career. “That’s why there is importance in having the right structures in place, especially if you’re a mom who has to think of managing your home, paying your bills, among many other responsibilities.”

That’s why Mia and Dana now use the new GCash Virtual US Account, a feature within the GCash app that lets freelancers receive USD payments from US clients more directly without the usual surcharges. After creating an account, you get your own ACH and Wire Routing Number, which you can give to your clients for direct deposits of your pay.

You can also choose to convert your USD to PHP when you want, depending on live forex rates, which you can see on the platform – giving you control over how much you actually receive. Once it’s in your wallet, you can use it to send money, pay bills, or add to your savings.

Creating a GCash Virtual US Account is easy in just a few steps.

1. Open the GCash app. Tap US Accounts in the Explore the App section

2. Tap Continue and verify your information

3. Complete your account creation