A Year of Online Tertulia
Since December 2020, Vibal Foundation (VFI) has hosted a virtual tertulia where VFI honors the life of its matriarch, Mrs. Esther A. Vibal. The monthly tertulia features a wide range of songs, dance, and even theatrical performances.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently labeled a new strain of the COVID-19 virus as a variant of concern, due to the sudden rise in cases all around the world. This variant is called the Omicron variant, first identified in South Africa on November 24, 2021.
It spread rapidly, and on December 15, 2021, the Philippines reported its very first Omicron case. One month later, the Department of Health (DOH) would announce that Omicron has replaced Delta as the country’s predominant variant. By January 19, 2022, the DOH would confirm the first two documented deaths due to Omicron, and 492 new cases would bring the total of Omicron cases in the Philippines to 535.
It is clear that the effects of the Omicron variant need to be monitored closely. But what exactly is Omicron, and why should we be concerned about it?
When we think of the home, we think of a place that is filled with laughter, joy, love, and hope. We think of a place where we find rest and peace among people we hold near and dear. Indeed, for many, home is a place that is welcoming. And nothing feels more welcoming than a home that is fragrant, clean and germ-free.
Since the start of the health crisis, people saw their daily routines changed. And for many, changed permanently. The fear of contagion and the ensuing paranoia forced many to hunker down and stay home every day. Overnight, the home became a place of work, recreation, entertainment, and leisure.
Once again, the Department of Health (DOH) categorized the Philippines as a “high risk” country for the COVID-19 virus*. As the number of cases spikes and the positivity rate increases by the day, there’s no doubt that the highly contagious Omicron variant plays a part.
In response to the current situation, the government has raised the alert level status in some parts of the country and continues its vaccination efforts. And while we can further increase our body’s protection by getting a booster shot against the coronavirus, it’s vital to remain vigilant for the sake of everyone in your household.
In partnership with non-governmental organization (NGO) World Vision Philippines, who is accredited and trained in the administration of Purifier of Water, P&G Philippines was able to help over 1,000 families in the CARAGA Region, particularly in the municipality of Sison in Surigao del Norte.
“The damage brought upon by Typhoon Odette to our countrymen in Visayas and Mindanao greatly affected access to basic necessities such as clean water, food, and hygiene. We immediately activated pre-positioned P&G Purifier of Water packets to provide access to clean, safe drinking water to communities in Sison, Surigao del Norte”, said Anna Legarda Locsin, P&G Philippines Communications Director.
Pfizer Philippines has officially been certified as a positive workplace by Great Place To Work, the global authority on workplace culture.
In assessing the company for its certification, Great Place To Work surveyed a number of Pfizer employees, who have lauded the company for having an amazing workplace culture that allows them to grow and succeed.
Pfizer successfully earned this achievement by reflecting their stated core values—Courage, Excellence, Equity, and Joy—in their work environment. Through this framework, Pfizer employees enjoy a career with purpose, an inclusive community, equitable opportunities to grow, and a quality work experience.
