Samsung’s Join the Flip Side event dazzled attendees at Conrad Manila as it unveiled the latest Galaxy devices with a spectacular launch party, bringing to life the brand’s promise of self-expression, creativity and productivity, and overall wellness.

In a program hosted by Erika Kristensen, Samsung shared a rundown of the newest Galaxy  groundbreaking innovations — the Galaxy Z Flip5, Z Fold5, Watch6, and Tab S9—marking a new era of unparalleled premium experiences.

Samsung invites consumers on a journey to discover an all-new Galaxy as Samsung showcases its latest innovations designed to open possibilities and transform lives. At the launch, the newest #TeamGalaxy members Catriona Gray and AC Bonifacio were introduced and also shared what one could expect over on the flip side. AC Bonifacio also kept the crowd hyped up throughout the night with an energetic performance.

Singer-songwriter Leila Alcasid, Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee, entrepreneur Nico Bolzico, and travel and lifestyle content creator Camille Co then took guests on a tour of different Galaxy zones, which are experiential installations that brought to life exactly how the new Galaxy devices complement modern lifestyles. 

Express yourself with the Galaxy Z Flip5

As part of the evening’s interactive experiences, guests were able to discover their best side at the Self Expression Studio where they took photos at the Mirror Selfie Station and the Flex Every Angle Photo Booth where they got to experience the versatility of the Flex Cam. Guests also took fun group selfies at the Groufie Station with the various hands-free selfie options 

The Flex Showcase meanwhile highlighted the Galaxy Z Flip5’s Flex Window widgets, which allows you to get productive on the go with just a few clicks and swipes. As the ultimate pocketable self-expression tool, you can let your individuality shine with the biggest cover screen yet, at 3.4 inches. 

Work and play with the Galaxy Z Fold5

At the Productivity Cafe, guests enjoyed curated drinks at the Coffee Station while checking out the features and functions of the new Galaxy Z Fold5. At the Gaming Lounge, guests tried out their favorite games with the Galaxy Z Fold5’s immersive 7.6” main display while at the Multi-Tasking Station, the Galaxy Fold5 was showcased as a powerful productivity tool through its sleeker S Pen, advanced Taskbar, and Split Screen features. 

The Entertainment Pod displayed a diorama of cinema with the Galaxy Fold5 as its movie screen. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, users can watch videos on one screen and type texts and comments using flex mode in the other half.  No need to worry about bulkiness as the Galaxy Fold5 is the thinnest Fold yet thanks to the Zero Gap Hinge.

Sleep better and live healthier with the Galaxy Watch6 series

At the Wellness Den, the new features of the Galaxy Watch6 series were on full display. The Sleep Up station highlighted the innovative capabilities of the Galaxy Watch6’s Sleep Monitoring functions such as the Sleep Scores, Sleep Stages analyses, and intuitive information with Sleep Coaching.  

Guests also got active with stationary bikes while wearing the Watch6 to experience its various functions. With the innovative 3-in-1 BioActive Sensor,  users can enjoy an  efficient way to monitor  exercise efforts and check on their health as the Galaxy Watch6 series monitors both blood pressure and electrocardiographic (ECG). 

The wide selection of versatile watch faces as well as new one-click band options were highlighted as well at the Straps Station. These devices pack holistic health offerings and powerful performance in a refined and sleek design - 30% slimmer bezel, a 20% larger and more vibrant display, and more interactive user interface. 

To further champion overall wellness, Samsung Philippines has partnered with Emma The Sleep Company, an award-winning German brand that advocates for better sleep experiences; and the 24/7  health consultation app KonsultaMD to enable better health and everyday wellness through technology. There will also be exclusive promotions and discounts for Samsung Members, Emma Sleep customers, and Watch6 Customers. Meanwhile, Samsung and KonsultaMD will be hosting health talks, wellness activities, as well as offer promotions and discounts to Samsung Members, KonsultaMD subscribers, and Watch6 Customers. Activities will be announced throughout the rest of the year. 

Get creative and productive with the Galaxy Tab S9 series

At the Creative Playground, guests explored the new features of the new Galaxy Tab S9 series with a live digital mural showcasing how the Galaxy Tab S9 series is a great device for creativity. There was also a  Doodle Corner where guests got to try out the PENUP App and S Pen Handwriting features of the tablets.  The Galaxy Tab S9’s Dynamic AMOLED 2X display also had its own corner full of different backgrounds showing how it can adapt to different lighting situations to ensure an epic viewing experience.

The DeX Mode corner showcased the Galaxy Tab S9’s versatility – where the tablets can be used like a laptop with a keyboard and mouse, and how users can experience the multi-window functionality and ecosystem connectivity with other Galaxy devices at the Ecosystem Integration corner. The experience was taken up a notch by submerging the devices in an aquarium at the Underwater Writing corner, showing how the IP68 rating of both the Galaxy Tab S9 series and the S Pen allows you to work or play anywhere.

To order the latest Samsung Galaxy devices and avail exciting offers, you may visit:  

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip5/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 series https://www.samsung.com/ph/tablets/galaxy-tab-s9/buy/ 

Samsung Galaxy Watch6 series https://www.samsung.com/ph/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch6-40mm-gold-bluetooth-sm-r930nzeaasa/buy/

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 Don’t miss this chance to join the flip side and unlock possibilities for self-expression, creative content creation, entertainment, productivity (or all of the above!) with the latest Samsung devices.

Enjoy fantastic freebies, savings and the trendiest colors of the latest Samsung Galaxy foldables -  the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Galaxy Z Flip5 - with exclusive pre-order deals from July 26 to August 17, 2023, only available at Samsung.com!

The biggest screen in your pocket – the Galaxy Z Fold5 

Get the best of both worlds - unfold the ultimate productivity powerhouse and immersive cinematic viewing with the new Galaxy Z Fold5. Feels like having a PC in your pocket, the Galaxy Z Fold5 has a massive   7.6" screen that peaks at 1750 nits of brightness, unfolding options for work and your viewing pleasure. It also includes the slimmest S Pen yet to maximize your productivity - it enables unparalleled writing during meetings, drawing, and screen navigation. You can comment on videos on one screen without compromising your viewing experience with its interactive short-form viewing on live streams.

Powered by a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, bask in the advanced cooling system and improved power consumption of the Galaxy Z Fold5’s unmatched gaming experience. With its now Zero Gap Hinge and reduced crease, the Galaxy Z Fold5 is meticulously constructed with a tougher main display that outperforms external shock, making it even lighter and at its thinnest of 13.4 mm.

Pre-order the latest Galaxy Z Fold5 for as low as PHP 98,990 for the 512GB variant and PHP 112,990 for the 1TB variant and get up to PHP45,000 in savings! You can also save up to PHP7,000 as you can get the 512GB variant for the price of the 256GB - plus free 1-year-long coverage of Samsung Care+ worth Php10,554. Your complimentary 1-year Samsung Care+ plan gets upgraded to a 2-year plan at checkout for just PHP 10,554 if you buy an additional plan. Select between Icy Blue, Phantom Black and Cream, or get the Samsung.com exclusive colors of Gray and Blue.  You can also take home a clear gadget case worth Php 2,190 when you purchase the exclusive colors.

Amazing discounts are also available for Galaxy’s other products, including 30% off the Galaxy Watch6 Series, 50% off the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, and PHP10,000 off the Galaxy Tab S9 Series and extra savings through improved Trade-In token worth up to P10,000.

To pre-order the Galaxy Z Fold5, you may visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/ and https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/buy/

Your ultimate pocketable expression tool – the Galaxy Z Flip5

A perfect fit — both in life and your pocket!  The Galaxy Z Flip5 now comes with its biggest Flex window yet, a camera that captures stunning selfies from edgy angles and a battery that can keep up with it all! 

The Galaxy Z Flip5 now has a  brilliant 3.4-inch Flex Window built for self-expression, which you can customize with your favorite widgets, video wallpapers, more clock faces and the familiar criss cross motions, among other things. With its bright Flex Window, you can make calls, check the weather, check your messages with a QWERTY keyboard, and even get your wallet.  

Capture stunning selfies with FlexCam and make any angle your best yet. No matter which camera you choose, Galaxy Z Flip5 makes it easy, even hands-free, courtesy of FlexCam. Even while closed, launch the camera app with the Flex Window shortcut to capture unexpected moments. For a larger group selfie, simply unfold to FlexMode and bring your friends into the frame. All that's left to do is perfect your pose with this ultra-clear camera.

Compact and eye-catching from every angle, this foldable is as versatile as it is portable. Built with a more durable and satisfying Zero Gap Hinge, the Galaxy Z Flip5 is only 15.1mm thick and has a 44% less visible crease for a premium open and close feel. It utilizes cutting-edge folding technology that has stood the test of time, including the zero-gap Flex Hinge, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and IPX8 water resistance in freshwaters for up to 30 minutes at a depth of up to 1.5 meters.

Pre-order the latest Galaxy Z Fold5 for only PHP 64,990 for the 512GB variant and save up to PHP43,000! In this pre-order deal, you not only get to purchase the 512GB variant for the price of the 256GB with Php 7,000 savings, you also get free 1-year-long coverage of Samsung Care+ worth Php10,554. Additionally, you can upgrade your free 1-year Samsung Care+ plan gets upgraded to a 2-year plan at checkout for just PHP 10,554 if you buy an extra plan. Select between Mint, Graphite, Lavender and Cream, or get the Samsung.com exclusive colors of Gray, Blue, Green and Yellow. When you buy the exclusive colors, you can also get a Flipsuit Case worth PHP 2,190!

You can also enjoy amazing discounts for other devices. Inclusive of 30% off on the Galaxy Watch6 Series, 50% off on the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, and PHP10,000 off on the Galaxy Tab S9 Series, plus additional discounts with enhanced Trade-In deals. 

To pre-order the Galaxy Z Flip5, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip5/

 and https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip5/buy/

Staying true to its commitment to sustainability, Samsung also utilized eco-friendly materials for its newest foldable line-up, from its 100% recycled paper package, case, and PET Film, to its internal components such as the SIM tray, it’s all made of recycled ocean-bound plastic and recycled plastic – a total certified for carbon emission reduction by Carbon Trust.

The clock is ticking! Don’t miss this chance to pre-order the Galaxy Z Fold5 or the Galaxy Z Flip5 at Samsung.com - score big savings and choose among the trendy online exclusive colors until August 17, 2023. 

For more information, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-171048 Series of 2023

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 Whether you have to get in the zone to finish various tasks, create new content on the go or get in your me-time through exercise or a wellness break - accomplishing all of these is possible with a versatile set of devices that are compatible and can be easily synced - like the Samsung ecosystem! 

Samsung opens a connected experience of productivity, entertainment, creativity, and wellness through its newest Galaxy foldable phones, smart watch and tablet. Here are all the reasons to #JoinTheFlipSide and score the complete Galaxy ecosystem:

Get things done and express yourself with the Galaxy Z Fold5 and Galaxy Z Flip5

Accomplish your tasks from anywhere with the new Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5, the Galaxy’s multitasking powerhouse. With a massive  7.6-inch Main Screen screen,  the Galaxy Z Fold helps users optimize productivity with features like the Taskbar which allows users to switch quickly between tasks and the slimmer S Pen Fold Edition makes real-time annotating and ideation easy. It also offers an immersive viewing and gaming experience with the Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Galaxy, graphics are enhanced  and the use of AI enables multi-game functionality. 

Meanwhile, the Galaxy Z Flip5 is all about self-expression as you can take photos with its new 3.4-inch Flex Window while folded. With the stunning hands-free FlexCam, taking photos solo is easy. Reviewing, adjusting, and deleting images is more convenient with the Flex Window. Not only that, checking notifications is simpler. 

Maximize your activities by syncing them with the rest of your  Galaxy devices. Each device is powerful on its own, but together, they work in sync to make tasks easier such as answering messages and calls, sharing and editing files, taking photos, and listening to music!

Create your Ultimate Productivity Ecosystem 

Enjoy limitless entertainment and creativity with the Galaxy Tab S9, S9+ and S9 Ultra with its Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy - the lightning-fast mobile processor also found in Samsung smartphones. It also has an AKG speaker system and Dolby Atmos immersive sound that enhances the audio experience and the Tab S9’s innovative Vision Booster technology which adapts to lighting conditions outdoors. 

Explore more with Samsung’s Multi Control feature that makes copying, pasting, and dragging texts and images directly between your tablet and smartphone seamless – copy using your smartphone and paste with your Galaxy Tab S9. 

You can also take video calls or virtual family catch ups anywhere through the Call & Message Continuity feature through your Galaxy Tab S9. This way, you can always be notified with messages and calls even when your phone is at a distance. 

Don’t fret about not having to finish items on Samsung Notes on your smartphone as all memos are synced across your different devices as long as there is an internet connection. In case of connection problems, share files, images and even music from smartphone to your tablet offline with the Quick Share feature. Just tap the screen to select files and then select the chosen device to transfer. 

Track your health and take control of apps from your wrist

The Samsung Galaxy Watch6 series has evolved from being your fitness tracker to becoming your daily wellness partner. Among the many updates of the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 is its many sleep monitoring features. Get to know your previous night’s sleep quality with the innovative Sleep Coaching feature that gives you data on your sleep activity and insights for maintenance and improvement. Samsung also added a personalized heart rate zone feature that analyzes individual physical capabilities.

Your Galaxy Watch6 is also the perfect fitness companion, with more features that allow you to customize your fitness journey. The new Personalized Heart Rate Zone feature analyzes individual physical capabilities and defines five optimal running intensity levels to help users set their own goals based on their ability. In addition to over 100 existing workout trackers, the newly added Track Run records the user’s runs on a track, while Custom Workout allows users to build and track their personalized workout routine.

Once you have chosen your preferred sport or workouts, get in the zone during your workouts by syncing your Galaxy smartphone to the Watch6 to put on your workout playlist. Finish your daily fitness goal while enjoying your favorite tunes, hands-free. 

To stay connected while working out, you can access WhatsApp, Google Calendar, and Gmail on your Watch6 even when you are away from your smartphone or other Galaxy devices. You can also track your fitness progress through your Galaxy Watch6 and see updates in real time with a guided fitness or mindfulness program on your Galaxy Tab S9.

Aside from guiding your fitness journey, the Galaxy Watch6 series even takes your photography experience to the next level with the Camera Controller feature. View the image from your smartphone and snap the shutter on the Watch6 to take the photo. 

All the latest Galaxy devices are now available for pre-order until August 17, 2023. Check the amazing offers and bundles and experience the Galaxy ecosystem through these links below! 

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5: https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-flip5/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5: https://www.samsung.com/ph/smartphones/galaxy-z-fold5/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9: https://www.samsung.com/ph/tablets/galaxy-tab-s9/buy/

Samsung Galaxy Watch6: https://www.samsung.com/ph/watches/galaxy-watch/galaxy-watch6-40mm-gold-bluetooth-sm-r930nzeaasa/buy/

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MEETING OF THE MINDS Willment Leong, WORLDCHEFS continental director for Asia, speaks in a closed-door meeting on Aug. 1 with WORLDCHEFS presidents

The Philippines hosted the recently concluded WORLDCHEFS Asian Presidents Forum (WAPF) 2023, welcoming delegates and presidents from sixteen (16) member societies, two (2) associate member groups, as well as organizational heads of the World Association of Chef Societies (WORLDCHEFS). This was the first time the event was held in the country, with the last occurring in Bangkok in 2019.

Co-organized by the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB) and LTB Philippines Chefs Association, the WAPF kicked off with an opening ceremony on July 31 at Conrad Manila. Forum events ran until August 5 and aimed to bring together culinary experts from all over Asia to share culinary heritage, industry best practices, and sustainability goals through knowledge-sharing sessions, competitions, and outreach programs scheduled throughout the weeklong conference.

Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco shared that the event was a good showcase of the country, saying that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. “envisions the Philippines to have a more primary role in Asia in terms of being able to reintroduce itself to the world, not only on the aspect of fun and adventure, but most importantly, to allow you to get to know the heart and soul of the Filipinos that lies in our history, our heritage, our identity, and our living cultural traditions, including and especially, our culinary traditions.”

“We are given a unique opportunity to listen and learn from experts about developments in the culinary field. The world is more connected, now more than ever, and this has vastly influenced and changed the way we look at food, especially in recent years. People from all over the world are constantly seeking new gastronomic experiences,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

Attending member societies include LTB Philippines, Association of Culinary Professionals Indonesia, Cambodia Chefs’ Association, Chefs Association of Pakistan, Chefs Guild of Lanka, Chefs Guild of Maldives, China Cuisine Association, Hong Kong Chefs Association, Indian Federation of Culinary Associations, Korea Chefs Association, Mongolian Chefs Association, Professional Culinaire Association of Malaysia, Singapore Chefs’ Association, Taiwan Chefs Association, Thailand Chefs Association, and The Saigon Professional Chefs’ Guild.

The associate member groups of Penang Chef Association and Karachi Chefs Association were also present.

“So many presidents and so many representatives from WORLDCHEFS member countries, [who] are here in the room, shows that Asia is one of the powerful forces in WORLDCHEFS,” said Chef Thomas Gugler, WORLDCHEFS president.

Also in attendance to give talks on Filipino food heritage and food sustainability in hospitality establishments were Felice Prudente Sta. Maria and Chef Meik Brammer, respectively. LTB Philippines’ Chef Fernando Aracama hosted a panel discussion with

Chefs Stephan Duhesme, Carlos Villaflor, and Jordy Navarra about the Philippine culinary scene.

Chef KK Yau, WORLDCHEFS assistant vice president, gave an update on WORLDCHEFS Without Borders’ Chef Social Responsibility efforts in Syria. While Chef Alan Orreal, WORLDCHEFS Young Chefs chairman, spoke about the necessity of bridging the gap between young chefs and the old guard of the culinary world.

In anticipation of the week’s events, Chef Rick Stephen, WORLDCHEFS Culinary Competition Committee chairman, gave a rundown of culinary safety and competition standards.

Chef Carlo Miguel, LTB Philippines president, said, “We’ve always wanted to be able to showcase Philippine hospitality to our Asian neighbors ... We can show them how advanced we are in our culinary skill through the Philippine Culinary Cup as well.”

Organized by PEPTarsus Corp., the World Food Expo (WOFEX), a long-running Philippine food trade show, was held from August 2 to 5 at SMX Convention Center and World Trade Center. WOFEX hosts the only WORLDCHEFS-accredited culinary competition in the country, the Philippine Culinary Cup, which ran on August 5 along with the semifinals of the WORLDCHEFS’ Global Chef Challenge.

According to Chef Willment Leong, WORLDCHEFS continental director for Asia, the Global Chef Challenge itself had amassed a record number of participants for the association, with 51 chefs from 11 different member countries engaging in this Philippine leg.

Leong also facilitated the launch of the WORLDCHEFS e-book “Food of Asia, Soul of Asia.” Available on the WORLDCHEFS website, the e-book features authentic recipes across the continent crafted by member association chefs.

Joel Pascual, PEPTarsus president, spoke about the benefits of MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) events such as the WAPF in boosting local trade and travel. “We are indicating that the Philippines is open for business,” he said.

Chef Leong said, “Hospitality from the Philippines is unbelievable … This [has been a] tip- top, world-standard forum .. We look forward to [coming] back to this beautiful home we call the Philippines.”

A FIRST Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco (center) poses with delegates and member association presidents of the World Association of Chefs Societies (WORLDCHEFS) at the organization's first Asian Presidents Forum to be held in the Philippines.

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 Did you know that we breathe in and out an average of 22,000 times daily? The lungs work hard every day to endure the flight of stairs, run after our dog when we forget its leash, catch the next scheduled train, and even chase someone who won’t stop and listen to what we have to say. 

Breathing also helps us laugh our heart out at someone else’s “corny” jokes, talk non-stop with a friend and cry over someone who doesn’t deserve our tears.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), our lungs are the heart of the respiratory system. The respiratory system comprises the trachea (windpipe), chest wall, diaphragm muscles, and other tissues. These parts work together to make the gas exchange and breathing possible. Your brain senses when your body needs to take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, and it regulates your breathing rate.

Thus, we need to take good care of our precious lungs.

Lung cancer and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, are primarily caused by cigarette smoking. Breathing can become more challenging due to cigarette smoke's ability to narrow airways. It results in persistent lung edema or inflammation, which can cause chronic bronchitis. Cigarette smoke damages lung tissue over time and might lead to cancer.

Exercise keeps your lungs in good condition, just as it does for your body. The lungs work harder when your heart beats faster while exercising. Extra oxygen is needed by the body to fuel the muscles. Your lungs work harder to provide that oxygen while releasing more carbon dioxide.

Your lungs can readily resist these pollutants when they are healthy. But as it gets older, they lose part of their resilience and become more susceptible to illnesses. 

When working in industries like construction, mining, or waste management, take all necessary safety steps to reduce exposure to airborne pollutants, avoid secondhand smoke, and avoid leaving the house during rush hour. 

Breathing deeply helps cleanse the lungs. Sit peacefully and take deep, slow breaths just through your nose. Then exhale through your lips for at least twice as long. Counting your breaths could be beneficial. Deeper breaths come from the stomach, where your diaphragm is located, whereas shallow breaths originate from the chest. As you practice, be mindful of how the stomach rises and falls. You get less anxious and more calm after performing these breathing exercises.

Every August of each year, the Philippines observes National Lung Month. It is an ideal time to take good care of your precious lungs and assess the possibility of contracting one of the several lung-related disorders. As your lungs work hard 24/7, you should also work hard to keep this vital organ healthy. (PIA-NCR)

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Book Author Ian Christopher B. Alfonso narrates his journey of completing his book "Dogs in Philippine History" during the book launch held at the Presidential Car Museum at the Quezon City Circle, August 5, 2023.

QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — A book that discusses the nearly 4,000-year relationship of dogs and humans in the Philippines was recently launched at the NHCP Presidential Car Museum, Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City.

Dog lovers and history lovers gathered together to support the launch of the book Dogs in Philippine History by Ian Chistopher B. Alfonso published by Alaya Publishing, Project Saysay, and the Philippine Historical Association (PHA).

Scholars and popular figures who delivered their reviews during the book launch receive their printed copies at the event.

Author Ian Christopher B. Alfonso shared in an interview that he started gathering photos, paintings and illustrations back in 2013 while writing a narrative resulting in a book with 600 plus pages. 

“Hindi ko in-expect na kakapal ng ganyan ng 10 years kasi nga unti-unti dumarating ‘yung mga datos na dati talagang wala pang nagsusulat, ang hirap hanapin ng mga sources,” Alfonso stated. 

[I didn't expect it to be so thick in 10 years because the data is slowly coming that no one has written before, it's hard to find the sources.]

Alfonso added that the book also features some monuments of dogs in the Philippines such as “Kabang,” the hero dog of Zamboanga, who lost her snout for saving two children from a motorcycle crash.

He explained, dogs are also part of history and he envisioned that stories about dogs will also spark conversations about the Filipino culture and society in order to provide some solutions to the faults in our culture. 

“Lalo na meron tayong problema sa rabis hanggang ngayon. Baka may problema na ‘yung kultura natin? o problema ba talaga ‘yung kultura? Baka puwedeng mag-adjust ‘yung kultura? [Gaya ng] ginawa ng mga Hapon, pinilit nilang maka-diskubre ng bakuna para sa mga aso para lang maligtas ‘yung aso nila dahil ganon nila kamahal ‘yung mga aso nila,” Alfonso shared in an interview during the book launch. 

[Especially, we have a problem with rabies until now. Maybe our culture has a problem? or is culture really a problem? Maybe the culture can adjust? [As] the Japanese did, they tried to discover a vaccine for dogs just to save their dogs because they love their dogs that much.] 

Historian and Professor Xiao Chua delivers his testimonial during the book launch.

Historian and Professor Xiao Chua said during the book launch that the book “Dogs in Philippine History” is a public history that showed what the people and society did to dogs through the years.

One of the accounts shared during the event was about the Spanish Government's declaration of the existence of rabies in the Philippines during the 1800s. Every household is only allowed to have one dog, excess should be killed in order to prevent rabies since the anti-rabies vaccines were not yet available at the time. Those killed are ordered to be buried at Luneta until the arrival of vaccines in the country in the 1930s.

Alfonso said he hopes his book would enlighten society to learn from the faults of the past and develop a better culture away from a mediocre society. 

“Sana may ganun din tayong kultura na kaya niyang baguhin yung lipunan hindi lang yung kulturang lilipas lang na parang bahala na, nandyan na yan, parang yung mediocre na society. Sana gamitin natin yung mga faults ng kultura natin para makapagbahagi ng solusyon,” Alfonso stated.

[I hope we also have a culture that can change society, not just the culture that will just pass away as if it's okay, that's already there, like the mediocre society. I hope we use the faults of our culture to share a solution.]

In addition to the author, the following scholars and popular figures will speak at the launch: Dr. Emmanuel Franco Calairo, NHCP Chairperson; Dr. Ma. Luisa Camagay, President of PHA; Prof. Michael Charleston Chua, public historian and assistant professor of De La Salle University Manila; Ms. Mona Magno-Veluz, genealogist known on social media as Mighty Magulang; Mr. Taj Vitales, archaeologist from the National Museum of the Philippines; Dr. Vicente Villan, historian and anthropologist from the University of the Philippines Diliman; Dr. Jose Diaz, veterinarian and historian from the Cavite Historical Society; Dr. Nicolo Ludovice, animal historian and lecturer from the University of Hong Kong; and, Dr. Jose Victor Torres, historian and professor from the De La Salle University Manila.

Pet lovers were also allowed to bring their dogs and cats at the venue. 

Those who would like to avail of the book Dogs in Philippine History may order through the book's official Facebook page (fb.com/DogsPHI).

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