"Forty-gether Kasama ang Paborito mong Kapitbahay": 7-Eleven celebrates 40 years in the country

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Ring in the bells, because it’s our paboritong kapitbahay’s anniversary!

7-Eleven, the Philippines’ leading convenience store, has always been a go-to destination for essentials, quick snacks, and affordable meals for all Filipinos. This familiarity is thanks to the delightful years spent with the 7-Eleven community spanning over four decades.

What started as one store in Kamias cor EDSA, Quezon City in 1984 gradually grew to nine humble branches in 1989, now has over 3,700 stores nationwide, celebrating its 40th anniversary. 

Over the years, each branch has become a community hub for shared experiences—meeting landmarks, date places, or just regular hangout spots. 

In those four decades, 7-Eleven also came up with iconic treats such as Big Bite, Slurpee, and GULP to treat everyone’s taste buds to a delicious, yet affordable delight. They also partnered with reputable brands such as Romantic Baboy, Lugang Café, Manam, Pancake House, and so many others to bring quality meals more available for all. 

Aside from these, the brand also evolved to be a trusted digital services provider with its CLIQQ app wherein customers can purchase items cashless, earn points, and more. ATMs are also present at most branches so customers can easily withdraw or inquire their balances as well as e-wallet services for top-ups and bills payment. 7-Eleven is loved all over the country because they have been consistently providing that signature convenience as the country’s paboritong kapitbahay. To mark this momentous 40th year, and as a nod to the vibrant community that grewt over the decades, 7-Eleven is celebrating being forty-gether kasama ang paborito mong kapitbahay with exciting promos and discounts. 

Kickstarting the festivities is a sweet treat from City Cafe, where coffee-loving customers can sip and savor a medium cup for only P40 on February 29, 2024. Those with a penchant for the iconic Big Bite will also appreciate a delectable P10 discount from Tender Juicy when they pair a Big Bite TJ hotdog with a red drink (GULP medium, C2 Apple 355ml, and Sting Strawberry 320ml) from February 14 to March 12, 2024. Lastly, 7-Eleven loyal customers can unlock a treasure trove of savings with up to 50% off on selected beverages, and snacks such as Kopiko Lucky Day PET 180ml on February 29 only; Lays Cheddar & Sour Cream 170g and Gardenia Chocolate Muffin on February 29 to March 2. Customers can also expect big savings in other items such as Snail White Whipp Soap 100g, Absolut Vodka 700ml and Selecta Pint Double Dutch 450ml (BUY 2, SAVE P40) until March 19, 2024. Truly, nothing beats spending milestones together because 7-Eleven makes every trip to the store guaranteed tipid and sulit.

As the celebrations roll in, the 40th anniversary celebrations are set to amplify all there is to love about the brand that everyone grew up with. The 7-Eleven community can expect year-round thrilling payday sale events and exciting e-raffle promos where they can bag incredible prizes like dreamy travel opportunities, latest gadgets, and so many more. 

Cheers to 40 years with 7-Eleven and like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok, and visit our website www.7-eleven.com.ph for more information.

New Survey Reveals Filipino Emergency Medical Professionals Often Overlook Life-Threatening Brain Condition

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The disregard for encephalitis despite symptoms, coupled with low confidence in recognizing the condition, underscores the urgent need for medical training.

A new survey commissioned by Encephalitis International, the peak global body for encephalitis, reveals that Filipino emergency medical professionals often overlook encephalitis, a life-threatening neurological condition characterized by brain inflammation, despite the presence of common symptoms.

Survey results showed that over half (54%) of local respondents did not consider infectious encephalitis, and three-quarters (74%) did not consider autoimmune encephalitis as a diagnosis when presented with a list of accepted symptoms for each condition. The survey findings are released in line with World Encephalitis Day on February 22, 2024.

Moreover, despite encephalitis leading to death in up to 40% of cases, 66% of the respondents did not consider death as a potential patient outcome resulting from delayed recognition and treatment.

"In the wake of these alarming survey findings, it is clear that much more must be done to bridge the gap in encephalitis awareness and expertise.

Encephalitis International is determined to increase this awareness among medical professionals through the development of globally accessible training programmes which will provide the tools for them to better recognise and treat encephalitis.

Of course, we cannot do this alone and will continue to work alongside international entities, such as the World Health Organization, to elevate encephalitis as a global health priority,” shared Dr. Ava Eason, Chief Executive of Encephalitis International.

The condition can happen to individuals of any age, sex, and ethnicity, with symptoms varying depending on the type. Symptoms of infectious encephalitis encompass altered consciousness, behavioral changes, fever, and headaches, while autoimmune encephalitis presents with memory issues, psychiatric symptoms, altered consciousness, and personality changes.

With the risk of death or permanent brain impairment when the disease strikes, first responders are essential in promptly considering encephalitis during health emergencies to mitigate the worst-case patient outcomes.

Misdiagnosis in patients leads to worse patient outcomes

The survey results reveal the reality for encephalitis patients in the country. Roschelle Del Rosario, caregiver based in Bulacan and mother to 23-year-old patient named Alex, shared their struggle with his rapid symptom progression despite medical intervention.

Initially experiencing insomnia, hallucinations, agitation, personality changes, appetite loss, and seizures, Alex was misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder. However, a second opinion in May 2023 revealed autoimmune encephalitis.

But diagnosis was just the beginning. Alex's health rapidly declined, leading to a four-and-a-half-month coma following the misdiagnosis.

Roschelle highlighted the extensive research required into treatment options., which due to limited local resources, is largely dependent on international organizations like Encephalitis International, who is committed to funding research that aims to advance recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of the condition as well as rehabilitation and quality of life of all people affected and their families..

“Alex had his whole life ahead of him as a graduating college student and the top of his class when his symptoms appeared. Today, he's a fighter battling encephalitis.

He's overcome his comatose state and is even able to use his mobile phone again after losing his cognitive and motor skills due to the disease. Eight months into this journey, he still faces significant challenges like hallucinations and memory loss.

Sometimes, you'll talk to him and the next second, he'll ask who you are. It's a tough road, but we still consider ourselves fortunate because, even though treating encephalitis in the country is difficult, we've found dedicated professionals who are willing to help and learn more about this disease so Alex can regain his health and have a chance at a normal life again,” shared Del Rosario.

Supporting emergency medical professionals with training for diagnosis

Further survey results found that only (35%) a third of local emergency medical professionals surveyed strongly agreed that their training had given them the confidence to recognise encephalitis. More than three-quarters (79%) somewhat or strongly agreed that they would benefit from more training.

Dr. Ferron Ocampo, an Adult Neurology Fellow of the Philippine Neurological Association and an advocate for encephalitis awareness, recognizes the challenges regarding the lack of training in encephalitis recognition and management in the country due to its rarity.

Priority in resource allocation, including education and training, is given to more common conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

However, Dr. Ocampo stresses the importance of advocating for encephalitis awareness because this condition needs immediate attention, as delayed diagnosis can lead to worsening of the patient's condition and serious consequences if not treated promptly.

“Encephalitis is a neurological emergency that can have devastating consequences if not diagnosed and treated promptly. However, not all medical professionals are aware of the symptoms and are confident in managing them.

As we celebrate World Encephalitis Day, various international and local stakeholders should collaborate to prioritize providing training and resources to medical professionals worldwide in order to enhance encephalitis detection, diagnosis, and treatment,” Dr. Ocampo shared.

In line with this urgent need for education, Encephalitis International is launching its largest fundraiser yet, "Don’t Delay. Give Today." This initiative aims to promote early recognition and treatment to prevent death and disability from

encephalitis by developing accessible, accredited training modules to provide more robust information and training on encephalitis. Emergency medical professionals in the Philippines and globally can access training opportunities by signing up for free professional membership.

MIAS 2024: Bridging the Future of the Automotive Industry

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), the Philippines’ largest annual motoring event, returns for another thrilling edition on April 4-7, 2024 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center Manila. This 2024, MIAS celebrates its 19th year as it continues to widen its reach in the automotive industry, embodying this year’s theme — Bridging the Future. 

With the overwhelming support from the automotive industry and fans across the country, MIAS 2023 attracted more than 149,000 visitors and featured more than 200 car displays. The 2024 MIAS is co-presented by BPI Auto Loans and Shell, and supported by the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) and Petron. Participating passenger car and commercial vehicle brands include BAIC, BAW, Bestune, Changan, Chery, Chevrolet, DAF, Dongfeng, Foton, GAC, GWM, Hongqi, Hyundai, Hycan, JAC, Jetour, JMC, Lynk & Co, Kinglong, MG, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Omoda & Jaecoo, Peugeot, Seres, Subaru, Suzuki, and Weichai.

TWO VENUES FOR THE FIRST TIME!

MIAS 2024 will feature a combined exhibition floor space of 41,000 square meters at TWO world-class venues simultaneously - World Trade Center Metro Manila (WTC) and SMX Convention Center Manila (SMX) throughout the four-day exposition. A single ticket enables access to both MIAS venues. 

FREE shuttle service will be provided throughout the day at designated pickup and drop-off points. This makes parking and visiting both WTC and SMX on the same day easy and convenient for the price of just one Php150 ticket. With dual venues, this year’s MIAS promises to offer better insights into the latest automobile technologies. Car buyers can make well-informed vehicle choices by experiencing the latest models the automotive market has to offer.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

MIAS 2024 is a world-class auto event with car launches to take place during the MOBILITY MARATHON. The country's top car brands will debut their latest vehicles along with show-stopping performances. Visitors get to check out the country's finest show cars at the MIAS-Petron Custom Classic Car Competition. Participants vie for “Best of Show” by displaying their well-restored and highly-customized vehicles, and share some useful tips on how to set up your own dream show car. MIAS will be the best marketplace to check out and test drive your dream car at the TEST DRIVE ZONE. From big trucks, off-road and camping rigs, to reliable commercial vans, MIAS 2024 will take you on an exhilarating adventure of off-road and outdoor driving at the TRUCK ZONE. See the breathtaking driving of British precision driver, Russ Swift, holder of three Guinness World Records — parallel parking in the tightest space, J-turn in the tightest space, and the fastest donuts—as he drives the latest Subarus at the RUSS SWIFT STUNT SHOW.

ABOUT THE SHOW MIAS

Founded in 1996 by Worldbex Services International, the leading event organizers in the country, the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) is widely recognized as one of the most popular and influential expositions in the country. MIAS continues to raise the bar in the industry, and promises to keep its track record of record-breaking visitor count. MIAS will be showcasing world-class automotive technology for the Filipino market. 

Be part of the Manila International Auto Show 2024 this coming April 4 to 7, 2024 from 10am to 9pm at two venues - World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center Manila. Get your exclusive promo tickets through https://manilaautoshow.com/

MIAS 2024 is organized by Worldbex Services International and for the benefit of the ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.