Shopee teams up with the Department of Health to push Booster Vaccination

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, SEPTEMBER 23, 2022 -  In line with its continuous commitment to help every Filipino increase their protection against COVID-19, Shopee has partnered with the Department of Health (DOH) for the Bakunahang Bayan: PinasLakas Special Vaccination Days campaign from September 26-30, to facilitate the rapid mobilization of COVID-19 vaccination among all eligible populations. 

As part of the campaign, a dedicated page will be accessible in-app to educate users on the benefits and importance of vaccination from September 26 to 30, 2022. Local government units (LGUs) across the country are likewise encouraged to include vaccination sites such as schools, malls, plazas, and places of worship where Filipinos can conveniently walk-in to get their COVID-19 booster shot on special vaccination days.

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, shared, “It is a great privilege for us to partner with the DOH once again. Through this partnership, we aim to leverage our platform to provide Filipinos with access to accurate and important information about booster shots and COVID-19 vaccination. Through proper education and collaboration, we can work together to fight the spread of COVID-19 in the Philippines.”

This campaign is one of the multiple initiatives that Shopee has launched to support Filipinos in their pre to post vaccination journey. In 2021, Shopee launched the Resbakuna Vaccine Education Campaign, also in partnership with the DOH; the Fully Vaxxed package which incentivized users to complete their vaccination doses; and Vaccination Center Support, which provided food, health essentials, and air coolers to chosen vaccination centers in Makati, Taguig, and Quezon City.

Assistant Secretary Beverly Lorraine Ho, OIC-Undersecretary of the Department of Health shared “Every Filipino plays a vital role in achieving the wall of immunity and protecting every single member of our community, especially the most vulnerable. We are grateful to be partnering with Shopee once more to maximize their platform in effectively reaching, engaging, and educating even more Filipinos on the importance of getting their COVID-19 vaccines and booster doses.”

With the  aim of boosting 50 percent of the general population and fully vaccinating 90 percent of the target senior citizens, the Bakunahang Bayan: PinasLakas Special Vaccination Days campaign is expected to educate Filipinos of the benefits the COVID-19 vaccines provide. Through these initiatives, the DOH hopes to encourage even more of our kababayans to receive their booster shots, most especially our senior citizens and the vulnerable population. 

From September 26-30, users can learn more about Bakunahang Bayan: PinasLakas Special Vaccination Days through the dedicated in-app page on the Shopee app.

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About Shopee
Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee connects shoppers, brands, and sellers across Asia and other fast-growing markets, empowering anyone to buy and sell anywhere and at any time. 

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. It offers a wide product assortment, supported by integrated payments and logistics, as well as popular entertainment features tailored for each market. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is a part of Sea Limited (NYSE:SE), a leading global consumer internet company. In addition to Shopee, Sea’s other core businesses include its digital entertainment arm, Garena, and digital financial services arm, SeaMoney. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology

Cancer Advocates Gather to call for “Kalayaan ng Kababaihan mula sa Kanser”

Filipino women have a long history of fighting for freedom. From the colonial era to contemporary times, they have demonstrated the strength associated with this pursuit. They strive for freedom of speech, freedom to suffrage, and equal rights.

However, as long as diseases like cancer can take hold of their lives, hostage, they are at its mercy, and therefore not completely free. In fact, breast and cervical cancers are among the most common and most fatal cancers in women. In 2020 alone, more than 10,000 Filipinas died of breast cancer and more than 4,000 lost their battle with cervical cancer.

 

That is why, in line with the Independence Day celebration this June, Hope from Within (HFW) a multi-stakeholder cancer advocacy, spearheaded by MSD in the Philippines is organizing the “Kalayaan ng Kababaihan mula sa Kanser” Women’s Cancers Summit which aims to bring attention to the plight of women afflicted with cancer, empower them, and amplify their voices as they battle the disease head-on.

 

Hosting the event is Ayn Bernos, a Tiktok content creator and one of the influential voices in women empowerment on social media. Following a breast cancer scare last year, Ayn underwent surgery to remove a lump on her breast. She will give voice to the concerns, fears, and hopes of Filipina women who sought liberation from these illnesses.

 

Understanding triple negative breast cancer

 

There are many types of breast cancer, one of which is the Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). It is considered aggressive cancer because it grows quickly, is more likely to have spread at the time it’s found and is more likely to come back after treatment than other types of breast cancer. This cancer tends to be more common in women younger than age 40.

Medical oncologist Dr. Josephine Tolentino will discuss the signs and symptoms of TNBC, preventive tips as well as diagnostics tests that will help patients identify TNBC. Dr. Tolentino will also highlight the role of a multidisciplinary team (MDT) in providing holistic treatment and care for patients.

The MDT can include a medical, surgical, and radiation oncologist, a pathologist, a radiologist, a breast surgeon, a psychiatrist, and more depending on the cancer condition. In multidisciplinary care, instead of benefitting from only one expert’s medical judgment, a team of specialists will convene to discuss the most optimal treatment approach for the patient depending on their prognosis. Based on a study, patients with an organized MDT even saw increased 5-year survival rates.

Patients will also learn about several treatment options available for breast cancer which may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, or a combination of these treatments.

In addition to the medical expert, breast cancer survivors Dr. Gia Sison and Jaymee Joaquin will share their personal stories and give hope to cancer patients, while cancer advocate and celebrity Dianne Medina will narrate the journey of her mom who succumbed to breast cancer.  Guest artists including R&B singer/composer Quest, and indie-pop duo Leanne and Naara, will provide inspiration through their music.

Committed to eliminating cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable forms of cancer, as long as it is detected early and managed effectively. Almost all cervical cancer cases (99%) are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV), an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact.

 

Although most infections with HPV resolve spontaneously and cause no symptoms, persistent infection can cause cervical cancer in women.

 

In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) developed its global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem. WHO targets: 90% of girls fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by the age of 15, 70% of women screened using a high-performance test by the age of 35, and again by the age of 45, and 90% of women with pre-cancer treated and with invasive cancer managed.

Dr. Efren Domingo, Vice President of the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society will inform attendees of the importance of screening, vaccination, and available treatment options for cervical cancer patients.

Providing healthcare access to Filipinas

Equitable access to quality cancer care has been the dream of cancer patients, survivors, and their families. With the passage of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA) in 2019, the government can strengthen cancer control in the country, increase cancer survivorship and reduce the burden on families and cancer patients^. This landmark health legislation was designed to provide cancer patients with quality health care services, increase access to innovative treatment options, and provide their families with financial risk protection, among other cancer-relevant items.

Dr. Clarito Cairo, Program Manager for Cancer of the Department of Health (DOH) will share updates on the current and upcoming programs of the DOH that provide cancer care assistance and support to patients. Joining Cairo in this segment is Dr. Cecilia Llave, technical adviser of SUCCESS Jhpiego who will provide insights from the ground regarding cancer care at the community level.

Cancer patients and care groups continue to advocate for the swift and complete implementation of healthcare laws in the Philippines. HFW is committed to renewing hope and reinforcing the fight for Filipino cancer patients through timely and medical-professional-backed information on navigating the cancer patient journey. Content can be accessed through HFW’s  website and Facebook page: https://hopefromwithin.org/ and https://www.facebook.com/Hopefromwithinph.

 

Cancer can affect anyone. Each one has a role to support cancer patients and survivors by signing the petition on the urgent implementation of the NICCA, which provides benefits that are needed for their treatment and recovery while allowing them a better quality of life. Make your signature matter. Sign the petition by visiting https://www.change.org/p/department-of-health-sign-the-petition-to-fully-implement-the-national-integrated-cancer-control-act-nicca-now.

Advocates Light a Path for Better Cancer Care in PH

Manila, Philippines – Health advocates gathered to call for better cancer care in the Philippines through a candle-lighting ceremony held last March 10 at the Greenbelt Activity Area in Makati City.

A multi-sectoral group composed of members from the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry led by the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP) in collaboration with MSD, recently came together for a landmark event titled Hope Matters: Lighting A Path for Better Cancer Care to ask for the implementation of the Universal Healthcare Law (UHC) and the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA).  

 

The activity was attended by stakeholders who want to push for better cancer care, including Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO), Philippine College of Surgeons- Cancer Commission (PCS-CANCOM), Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO), MSD and Astra Zeneca. Aside from the symbolic gesture of lighting candles for cancer awareness, they launched a call for action through an online petition that is addressed to the National Government. Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality in the country. According to the 2018 Global Data on Cancer, more than 140,000 new cancer cases and more than 80,000 cancer deaths are expected in the Philippines every year. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Filipinos, followed by lung, colon, liver, and prostate1. A study conducted by the University of the Philippines’ Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, finds that 89 of every 100,000 Filipinos are afflicted with cancer while four Filipinos die of cancer every hour2. 

The provisions of the NICCA, which was passed in 2019, will help mitigate the impact of cancer in the country. It ensures the provision of quality health services and financial risk protection to cancer patients. It emphasizes cancer prevention and improvement of survivorship, by improving related health services and care while including additional funding for cancer programs.  

 

Cancer survivor Jojo Flores explained the added challenges that patients have to overcome in order to receive their much-needed treatment, “For cancer patients, it is collision of the two big C’s -- Cancer and Covid. The treatment for cancer patients is time-bound, but because of the Covid situation, many have not been able to receive their treatments. Hospitals and doctors had to focus on CoVID-19 cases, and even transporting the patient to the hospital was a problem.” he said. Mr. Flores added that although NICCA may take time to implement in its totality, there are aspects of the law that can already help save many lives, especially with early detection.  

Flores is calling specific NICCA provisions to be implemented as soon as possible. These are:  

 

1. The immediate classification of cancer patients as Persons with Disabilities PWDs as soon as formally diagnosed.

2. Mandatory cancer policies in the workplace. 

3. The inclusion of innovative therapies among cancer treatments aimed at treating the disease and improve the patient’s quality of life; and

4. Coordinated cancer screening and detection programs at the community levels. 

During the forum, one of the points raised by PHAP Director Mr. Teodoro Padilla was the need for public support and private partnerships to enhance better cancer care. He added that as the government implements measures to make medicines more accessible, it is important to address certain bottlenecks to make treatments that are available in other countries also accessible for Filipino patients. 

The healthcare and pharmaceutical sector is extending its help not only in the call for the government’s implementation of the NICCA, through initiatives such as Hope From Within by MSD Philippines. The cancer advocacy program introduced the Cancer Game Plan, a health impact projection model that uses local data sets to uncover cancer outcomes and highlight how innovative treatment options such as immunotherapy may provide cancer patients quality of life and improve their overall survival.  

 

Andreas Riedel, President and Managing Director and the Country Leadership Team of MSD in the Philippines, expressed hope that the event will result in meaningful progress for the fight against cancer.  

 

“Cancer patients and their families are not alone in this fight. We at MSD are one with the community in championing a multi-stakeholder approach to promote information, education, and access to quality cancer care. Through Hope Matters: Lighting a Path for Better Cancer Care, we commit to continue doing our part in amplifying the voice of the Filipino Cancer patient and help usher them towards more hopeful tomorrows.”  

 

To sign the petition for the full implementation of the NICCA, visit change.org: https://www.change.org/p/department-of-health-sign-the-petition-to-fully-implement-the-national-integrated-cancer-control-act-nicca-now, and help more cancer patients receive quality and holistic healthcare services with the help of the government. (Note: Clicking on the link will lead to a third-party website, outside of the current publication. Said third party site is independent of and does not necessarily reflect the views of organizations featured in this story including MSD- Hope From Within.)

To support the call for better cancer care in the Philippines, scan the code and sign the petition.

Ortigas Malls Elite Pet Society - Christmas Pawty for dogs at L/G East Wing at Estancia on December 19, 2021

Ortigas Malls Elite Pet Society will be having their first Christmas Pawty for dogs at L/G East Wing at Estancia on December 19, 2021 from 2PM to 5PM. Get a chance to attend talks and training by the Pinoy Dog Whisperer Lestre Zapanta, and Bayopet’s Dr. Jomer Fule. Win freebies from our event sponsors Advantix, BarksJOY, Bayopet, Bon Apawtit, Elanco, Lestre Zapanta, Paw & Purr, Pet Express, and The SM Store Estancia.

Visit the booths and pop-up dog playground for your furbabies to enjoy! Christmas gifts from the event sponsors will also be waiting at the registration booth until supplies last. Registration at the venue starts at 1PM. 

Entrance is FREE! All attendees must be fully vaccinated, and will need to present their pet’s Elite Pet Society ID and COVID-19 Vaccination Card to enter the event. One pet is to one owner only.

Not yet a member? Download the Ortigas Malls Mobile App to register your pet for free at the Ortigas Malls Elite Pet Society: http://onelink.to/xx58zg

Visitors can be assured that safety remains the main priority for both customers and employees. Estancia has been given a Safety Seal by the Pasig LGU which is a declaration that it has complied with the city’s precautionary measures set by the DOH and IATF to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Visit the Estancia Facebook page for more details!

Greenhills Community Yard Sale NOVEMBER 27-28 2021

Grab unique finds and enjoy great savings at the Greenhills Community Yard Sale on November 27 & 28, 2021! Buy and sell your preloved items from 4 to 11 PM, experience barter trading from 6 to 7 PM, or join the charity auction for the benefit of the Independent Production Workers Group (IPWG) from 7 to 8:30 PM.

All attendees must sign up for the Ortigas Community Card to enter the event. Download the Ortigas Malls app on the App Store or Play Store to register.

Visitors can be assured that safety remains the main priority for both customers and employees. Greenhills Mall has been given a Safety Seal by the San Juan LGU which is a declaration that it has complied with the city’s precautionary measures set by the DOH and IATF to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Visit the Greenhills Mall Facebook page for more details!

About Ortigas Malls

Ortigas Malls prides itself in developing leisure destinations that enrich the community. For more information, visit the Ortigas Malls website at ortigasmalls.com, and the official Facebook pages @greenhillsofficial, @tiendesitas, @EstanciaPH, @IndustriaAtCirculoVerde. Download the Ortigas Malls app on App Store or Google Play.

11.11 Big Christmas Sale in Ortigas Malls

Spend the week at Ortigas Malls for the 11.11 Big Christmas Sale from November 8 to 14, 2021! Enjoy Christmas deals from participating establishments in Greenhills, Tiendesitas, and Estancia.

Exclusive freebies and discounts await Ortigas Community Card members! Download the Ortigas Malls app to register.

Take the opportunity to surprise your loved ones with gifts delivered through ShopBox, a smart locker service available at Greenhills and Estancia.

You can also shop from multiple stores and have your gifts delivered directly to your loved ones through My Home Dashers – your personal shopper and delivery service! Just call the following numbers to order - Greenhills: 0917-815-6640, Tiendesitas: 0917-857-0379, Estancia: 0917-851-9262.

Greenhills, Tiendesitas, and Estancia are open from Monday to Thursday from 10AM - 8PM, and Friday to Sunday from 10AM – 9PM during these dates.

Visitors can be assured that safety remains the main priority for both customers and employees. Greenhills, Tiendesitas, and Estancia have been given a Safety Seal by the San Juan and Pasig LGU which is a declaration that it has complied with the city’s precautionary measures set by the DOH and IATF to help prevent the spread of the virus.

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About Ortigas Malls

Ortigas Malls prides itself in developing leisure destinations that enrich the community. For more information, visit the Ortigas Malls website at ortigasmalls.com, and the official Facebook pages @greenhillsofficial, @tiendesitas, @EstanciaPH, @IndustriaAtCirculoVerde. Download the Ortigas Malls app on the App Store and Google Play.

Maxicare Helps Members Reignite their Businesses Amidst COVID-19

Manila, Philippines — Under the “new normal,” business and healthcare go hand-in-hand as industries recover and adapt to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. To signify its support to the country’s outsourcing sector, Maxicare Healthcare Corporation, the country’s premier healthcare provider, joined the Call Center Association of the Philippines’ (CCAP) Serving the World: Contact Islands ‘21 Virtual Conference on Re-Igniting Growth in the New Business Environment.

During the virtual conference, Maxicare hosted a discussion on how COVID-19 will continue to impact the way businesses operate and how the company has been helping ensure the safety and wellbeing of employees.

Living with the impact of COVID-19

Maxicare invited Dr. Edsel Salvana, Director of Institute of Biology and Biotechnology and member of the Department of Health’s (DOH) Technical Advisory Group on Infectious Diseases, to provide an overview on the COVID-19 situation in the country. During his talk, Dr. Salvana emphasized the need for innovation in ensuring that workplaces are pandemic-resilient and less likely to spread diseases. “There are a lot of innovations that will outlive the pandemic, including working from home. If you don’t need your entire workforce to be in the office, then taking out half of them and allowing them to work from home will be the most effective.” 

Dr. Salvana also expressed his optimism that businesses will flourish better towards the end of the year as we learn to better cope with the pandemic. “If we stick to public health standards and increase vaccination while reinforcing the healthcare system, we will be able to manage our severe cases and the economy can remain open as we continue to roll out our vaccines. We are already seeing the numbers go down, we ask that everyone cooperates. Make sure that aside from getting vaccinated, wear your masks and face shields especially indoors and stick to what you have been doing in terms of protecting each other.”

Re-igniting businesses through innovative and responsive healthcare services

Maxicare’s Assistant Vice-President for Wellness and Medical Resource and Research Dr. JC Sevilla also shared how they are helping partner companies reignite growth through the Maxicare HomeCare COVID-19 Management Program. 

“We know that early detection is the priority when it comes to COVID-19. Our program, which simulates a hospital admission, provides continuity of care from consultation to treatment with 24/7 telemedicine and telemonitoring. Telemedicine includes consultations with in-house physicians where we also provide electronic prescriptions and lab requests. With telemonitoring, we are able to monitor disease progression. The Maxicare HomeCare program also offers medication including Remdisivir and steroids, as well as ambulance conduction if needed. The program is open for all COVID-19 cases and those qualified cases needing confinement.”

Sylvia Stolk, Chief Digital and Transformation Officer also shared how Maxicare is investing in technology to transform healthcare. “Access to basic health services is very important. We are helping businesses by making sure our members are healthy through protection, care continuity and easy access to healthcare, and understanding our members’ state of health through proactive, preventive, and predictive care.” 

“Even before the pandemic, Maxicare already began to strengthen its customer experience vision and principles, where most of the member journey and digital transformation projects are anchored,” said Fiona Victoria SAVP/Group Head of Corporate Sales. 

Some of these digital initiatives include the Maxicare Member Gateway platform for applying for Letter of Authorization (LOA) online, Maxicare Videoconsult for 24/7 video consultations with doctors, and the HR Viewpoint and Enroll Me platforms for human resource personnel. During the first months of the pandemic, Maxicare was also at the forefront of ensuring a manageable return to work process with the Re-Entry Assessment and Management Program. They were also one of the first companies to invest in COVID-19 vaccines, making it available to their corporate partners and their members, including dependents.

“Reigniting the growth of our company, Maxicare, means we are prepared to extend excellent patient service on top of medical care. Re-igniting our progress means being able to map our customer’s journey from their onboarding to their post-medical needs,” added Victoria. 

To know more about Maxicare and its products and services, call their 24/7 hotline 8582-1900.

ABOUT MAXICARE

Maxicare is a part of the Equicom Group, a strong and healthy ecosystem of companies engaged in information technology, computer services, banking and finance, and leasing. We constantly innovate and upgrade our services to meet the ever-growing demands of our clients for convenient, reliable, and delightful experiences. Being the HMO with the largest number of members, we ensure the safety and good health of our 1.6 million members across the country - servicing a wide range of customers from corporations to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, families, and individuals.

As the country’s leading HMO, Maxicare is ISO Certified and continuously provides high quality, comprehensive healthcare programs through our wide network of medical providers and strong customer support. Maxicare has more than 24,000 affiliated doctors and specialists, 1,400 hospitals and clinics, 1,000 dental clinics, 180 rehabilitation, dialysis, and eye centers. 

Vaccination Efforts Pave the Way for Economic Recovery

MANILA, OCTOBER 21, 2021 - In early 2020, the onset of the pandemic posted big challenges as businesses struggled to stay afloat due to strict lockdowns and social distancing measures. Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, responded accordingly by helping MSMEs shift online easily and seamlessly. And with vaccination programs ongoing, Shopee continues to aid economic recovery by mounting community initiatives focused on increasing vaccination education and uptake to fight against  COVID-19. These programs include Shopee’s Vaccination Center Support drive, Shopee #FullyVaxxed Package, and the Department of Health’s (DOH) Resbakuna campaign. 

With fewer cases during the first half of 2021, the country saw great potential for a rebound as there were less restrictions allowing mobility and economic activity.  Because of this, the Philippines continues to push for the health and safety of its community through its vaccination efforts, with more than 51 million doses administered.  When the health of the population improves due to the vaccine, it serves as an avenue for educational achievement, growth in work opportunities, improved social functions, and a better chance in economic recovery. 

Shopee, in partnership with different brands and organizations, launched vaccine-centric initiatives to support the country’s journey towards a healthier and safer Philippines. 

Vaccine Education through Resbakuna: Kasangga ng Bida

During the first quarter of 2021, many Filipinos were resistant to the vaccine due to three key reasons: concerns about potential side effects, uncertainty about efficacy, and skepticism. In partnership with DOH, Shopee educated the community about COVID-19 vaccines through a dedicated in-app microsite and social media initiatives. Through Shopee Live, DOH representatives Dr. Dominic “Meng” Maddumba and Beverly C. Ho, MD, MPH, Director IV, at the DOH Health Promotion Bureau, raised vaccine awareness to combat vaccine hesitancy and also discussed the facts about the vaccine’s safety and efficacy. Shopee recorded almost a total of 50,000 unique views for both live stream sessions.

 

Providing a more pleasant inoculation experience with Vaccination Center Support 

Shopee partnered with local government units of Makati and Taguig to provide Filipinos with a more comfortable vaccination experience. Residents and frontliners from both cities received food and health kits from partner brands. These included snacks from Del Monte, Perfetti Van Melle, Dutchmill Soy, Monde Nissin, and Rebisco; bottled water from Hope in a Bottle; and health kits from Mighty Clean, Colgate, and Cosmetique Asia; and units of Symphony Air Coolers. With the positive reception of the public for the first two initiatives, Shopee aims to roll out the same project in Quezon City later this year with a total of 4,500 potential beneficiaries for all three cities.   

Incentives for the fully-vaccinated with the  #FullyVaxxed Package 

From July to September 2021, the Shopee #FullyVaxxed Package offered fully vaccinated Filipinos a special bundle they can use for personal needs and encourage others to complete both doses. With more than 15,000 sign-ups, users enjoyed free shipping, discount vouchers from Shopee, and discount vouchers from various brands such as Manuka Health, Photobook, Bo’s Coffee, KonsultaMD, Uni-Care, The Smile Bar, Converse, Planet Sports, Globe, and Marketplace sellers such as Bella’s Online Store, ED.Kids, Flagship Store, and more. 

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Shopee is committed to helping the nation’s efforts towards positive economic recovery as much as we can so that everyone can benefit from a safer and healthier society. We would also like to extend our gratitude to all our partners who have lent their support in many ways. Together our efforts can make a bigger impact.” 

Buy Load, Pay Bills, and Scan to Pay with ShopeePay. Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

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About Shopee

 Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee connects shoppers, brands, and sellers across Asia and other fast-growing markets, empowering anyone to buy and sell anywhere and at any time. 

 

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. It offers a wide product assortment, supported by integrated payments and logistics, as well as popular entertainment features tailored for each market. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

 

Shopee is a part of Sea Limited (NYSE:SE), a leading global consumer internet company. In addition to Shopee, Sea’s other core businesses include its digital entertainment arm, Garena, and digital financial services arm, SeaMoney. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology.

Over 43k Safety Seals Issued as more Businesses Apply

A total of 43,332 public and private establishments have been issued Safety Seal Certifications as of 1 October 2021, through the joint efforts of the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), including local government units (LGUs), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Tourism (DOT), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). The Safety Seal Certification program indicates the compliance of establishments to the minimum public health standards (MPHS) set by the government.

DTI Secretary Ramon M. Lopez said the certification program is indeed beneficial to the country’s recovering economy as it boosts the confidence of consumers in going out and patronizing business in the new normal with the assurance that a business establishment is compliant with health protocols.

The trade chief encouraged more businesses to adopt the seal as an effective measure in curbing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. “Businesses can do their share in the fight against the pandemic and create a healthy space for consumers to transact their purchases and for employees to gainfully and safely earn a living,” Lopez added.

DILG Secretary Eduardo M. Año, on the other hand, told owners of establishments, especially those in areas under strict quarantine restrictions, to take this time to apply for a Safety Seal. “Applying for a Safety Seal is not mandatory. However, business establishments are highly encouraged to apply since this will also help them attract customers which eventually lead to increased sales and profit,” he said.

Since its implementation in May 2021, a total of 85,731 applications were received by the issuing agencies as reported by the Safety Seal Technical Working Group (TWG); 50.54% or 43,332 applications were approved while 11.50% or 9,858 applications were either denied or referred to the appropriate agency. The remaining percentage represents those that are still in the inspection process.

"I commend and congratulate the establishments that have taken the lead in securing their Safety Seal certifications. This will build confidence that their respective companies are committed to ensuring the health and safety of their stakeholders and workers,” said DOLE Secretary Silvestre "Bebot" Bello III.

Pursuant to the DOH-DILG-DOLE-DOT-DTI Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 21-01 Series of 2021, otherwise known as the Implementing Guidelines of the Safety Seal Certification Program, a business establishment is eligible to apply for a Safety Seal given that it is duly registered, adopting the Staysafe.ph or any other Local Government Unit (LGU) - mandated digital contact tracing application, and most importantly, strictly following and implementing the MPHS set by the government.

“The implementation of the Safety Seal Program is a very laudable initiative that highly reinforces our country’s response to combat COVID-19. As we gradually reopen our economy, it is important to ensure that our people are safe, and adherence to Minimum Public Health Standards (MPHS) is one vital key to this aspect,” said Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III.

Likewise, the DOT reaches out to tourism establishment owners to take this step. "The Safety Seal certification program bodes well with the DOT's priority to ensure the health and safety of both tourists and tourism workers. That being said, I am encouraging all tourism establishments to apply for a Safety Seal, strictly comply with the health and safety guidelines, and have all their employees vaccinated. Let us continue to make travel fun and safe for all," said DOT Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat.

The Safety Seal TWG assures the public that the government continuously exerts the best efforts with a whole-of-government and whole-of-society coordination in support of the Inter-Agency Task Force against COVID-19's (IATF) Prevent-Detect-Isolate-Treat-Reintegrate (PDITR) strategy.

Moreover, they urged the public to be more informed of various ways to keep safe from COVID-19 and its variants, following the announcement on the new classification framework advocating the principles of 3C’s (Closed, Crowded, and Close Contact) Strategy. This framework employs Alert Level Systems that shall determine, among others, the protocols and allowable operational capacity of business establishments per city/municipality.

Since September 16, Metro Manila is classified under Alert Level 4. This implies that establishments and/or activities classified as high-risk for transmission shall not be allowed to operate. For the allowed operational capacity of dine-in and al fresco restaurants, barbershops, personal care services, and the likes, the complete Alert Level Systems guidelines may be viewed here.

For more information regarding the Safety Seal’s respective application processes by the issuing agencies, please visit the following microsites: