New Ecoflo women's underwear addresses feminine care, sustainability issues

CEBU CITY – EcoFlo, a new brand of women's underwear founded and created by Leight Carcel emerges as a solutions-oriented brand that addresses issues on sustainability and provides a compelling alternative in feminine care.

“While the concept of period underwear gains global momentum, the choices and awareness in the Philippines is limited, prompting EcoFlo to step in and bridge the gap,” Leigh said, in a media huddle in Cebu last December 14, 2023.

Leigh emphasized that pads and diapers can be bulky and uncomfortable. They are also not good for the environment.  Ecoflo not only addresses menstrual concerns but also incontinence issues, which are very normal for pregnant women and older women experiencing menopause.

Leigh said that more than just a brand, Ecoflo represents a movement of forward-thinking individuals seeking smart and sustainable solutions for a greener future. By amplifying conversations on intimate care, the brand seeks to normalize the realities around the female body, challenge preconceived notions of beauty and health, and inspire women to embrace their bodies – period, pee, perspiration, and all.

In 2019, Ecoflo Founder Leigh Carcel faced a life-altering spinal cord injury that left her paralyzed from the waist down. Amid her journey to reclaim mobility, she encountered light urinary incontinence and the search for a solution led her to leak-proof, reusable underwear, proving to be a game-changer in her life.

Challenging statistics on environmental sustainability

According to a recent Plastic Polluters Study, did you know that the Philippines is currently the largest contributor to ocean plastic pollution worldwide? The country accounts for a staggering 36 percent of the world’s total plastic waste.

Of the overwhelming 350,000 tons of plastic that enters the oceans from the country’s shores alone, a significant portion comes from single-use, disposable napkins, tampons, and diapers.

“As empowered women, we hold the key to making a significant change in this alarming scenario,” Leigh said.

EcoFlo’s foundation rests on the pillars of quality, sustainability, style, and inclusivity. As a young brand committed to sustainable feminine care, Ecoflo is a complete replacement for feminine pads, tampons, and adult diapers, she added.

For its debut collection, Ecoflo introduces five distinct styles catering to various lifestyles, occasions, and body types. The designs prioritize a snug fit, all-day comfort, and ease of movement, empowering women to embrace their bodies confidently.

According to Carcel, beyond being leak-proof period underwear, Ecoflo strives to break the silence around taboo topics like menstruation, incontinence, and perspiration. Leigh emphasizes, “We want to normalize these difficult conversations.” Real-life stories from women who have tried EcoFlo add authenticity and relatability, showing the positive impact it has had on their lives.

Today, Leigh shares this empowering solution, providing an alternative to single-use plastic and initiating conversations about challenging topics and bares EcoFlo’s value proposition:

EcoFlo is Reliable and Cost-effective: With products reusable over a hundred times, EcoFlo offers reliability and cost-effectiveness.

EcoFlo is Eco-friendly: One of the most significant advantages is reducing environmental impact and replacing pads and tampons that take 800 years to decompose in landfills.

EcoFlow has Style and Function: Leak-proof garments are designed to be comfortable and breathable without compromising on design and style.

EcoFlow is Mindful and Inclusive: Celebrating the beauty of all women, EcoFlo celebrates the uniqueness of every body type.

EcoFlow is Empowering Freedom: Normalizing the unmentionable, EcoFlo empowers those facing leaks and incontinence challenges to embrace their journey with pride and confidence.

EcoFlow is Un-trashing the Environment: Supporting charitable initiatives, EcoFlo partners with organizations like Haribon Philippines for Ocean clean-up.

Leigh enjoins all women to join in the movement towards sustainable feminine care – every small change count. For more information about Ecoflo, visit www.goecoflo.com and follow them on Instagram. (Photos: Leigh Carcel/MBCNewman)

Honda-Cebu launches programs on environmental stewardship, independent biz referral

CEBU CITY -- Honda Cebu in partnership with the Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) introduced and launched a pioneering environmental stewardship initiative dubbed as “Acre Movement” and its new “Independent Business Referral” (IBR) program.

“We already have released our Honda-CRV hybrid car and are eventually going towards full electric cars in the future.  We’re now in the middle of the hybrid model, starting with battery operated and when we go past that, it translates towards the use of electricity,” Carl Bryan Enerio, Honda Cars-Cebu branch manager told media in a huddle during the launching event on December 14, 2023 at the Honda Cars-Cebu office.

Enerio said that when it comes to environmental stewardship, it’s about eliminating the carbon (CO2) in the air and helping in the global campaign of environmental sustainability, specifically on the quality of air on the road.

With these in mind, Enerio bared that with the join forces of PRA and Honda Cars-Cebu, the Acre Movement is a pioneering initiative towards environmental stewardship, under the Acre Movement, every vehicle sold by Honda Cebu results in the planting of a tree, fostering a greener future for the Philippines.

“The innovative campaign, ‘1 Car Sold = 1 Tree Planted’, has already borne fruit, quite literally. This move not only benefits customers but also contributes to reducing carbon footprints and promoting eco-friendly driving practices. The collaborative efforts have yielded promising results, with more than 6,055 trees already planted as a direct result of vehicle sales as of December 1, 2023,” Enerio added.

He revealed that these more than 6,000 trees have been planted not just in the scenic locale of Busay but also in the heart of Manila, a nationwide commitment to sustainability.  Enerio added that Honda Cars Cebu and PRA amplify their environmental impact by offering additional incentives for the purchase of hybrid cars.

Honda Cars-Cebu had sold 302 units in 2023, an evident ripple effect of the Acre Movement.  Join the drive towards a sustainable tomorrow—support this initiative that not only transforms lives but also contributes to preserving our planet for generations to come, Enerio said.

Enerio said Honda AC Motors in partnership with Ayala Land Inc., projects to plant and maintain around 7,500 seedlings within an exclusive land area in Alaminos, Laguna and Cebu City until the end of the year.

The company shall also engage in volunteering tree-planting and nurturing activities in support to Ayala Land's initiative in caring and preserving the environment.

Honda’s Independent Business Referral (IBR) program

Honda Cars-Cebu is also introducing its new Independent Business Referral (IBR) program that is open to highly motivated individuals with a wide network and are willing to collaborate in marketing multiple vehicle brands under AC Motors.

According to Enerio, interested individuals must register now.  This is open to a channel to maximize an individual's network by referring customers to AC Motors dealerships with an opportunity to earn on the side.

 

There are four Easy Steps to get engaged with the IBR program:

1: Interested individuals to enroll via official online form for accreditation at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfrRtV67cVcTD9|TzS-bHWcOVWvnwbVi@Y5hRzoZ/rrSXTEHA/viewform

2: Upon confirmation of enrollment, accredited referrers can now send their leads through AC Motors official online lead form. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAlpQLScx-2w8VKTMxiyv=OSTLAs XaDXivvqWiAVW7aTWEObODvAQ/viewform.

3: A Sales Consultant will handle the customer and release the unit. QR codes are available for interested parties to Scan here to register and also for referrers to Scan.

4: Once referral becomes successful, referrers shall be notified and receive incentives through bank deposit or check pickup.

Enerio bared that IBR incentives for successful referrals may vary depending on the Honda Car model purchased by the customers.  Honda Car models enrolled in the IBR program include the Brio S/V/RS BT; Brio RS, City V/RS/Hatchback; City S CVT/E CVT; Civic S and Civic V/RS; BRV S/V/VX; HRV S/V/RS and the CRV. 

Enerio added that the partnership between Honda Cars-Cebu and the PRA showcases the Honda car technology with everyone and maybe they can share about the advantages of the Honda Car products in the world of automotive.

“And with the PRA partnership of course, we started with the leaders of the businesses to campaign because the main goal now is to resume businesses with corporate social responsibilities,” Enerio concluded. (Photos: MBCNewman/Honda Cars Cebu)

 

 

 

 

 

166 women PDLs at Mandaue City Jail receive gifts from Zonta Club of Cebu II

MANDAUE CITY – Some 166 women-persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)-Mandaue City Jail received gifts packs from Zonta Club of Cebu II, each pack containing basic needs such as rubber slippers, towels, toiletries, powder laundry detergent., with a lipstick as one item in the gift pack that any woman appreciates.

“One item in the gift pack was a lipstick, an important item that any woman appreciates, and we did not forget the coffee, candles, biscuits and chips,” Zontians Elsa Basubas, Mildred Simolde, and Regal Oliva, who were, and still are, the driving forces of the event, said.

According to these ladies, this is the fourth annual gift giving activity of the Club for the female PDLs in Mandaue City.  Zonta Club of Cebu II jail visits are done twice a year that aims to make happy memories to this marginalized group of women.

They added that a few hours of socializing bring so much joy to everyone, Zontians included. A good deed is truly therapeutic.  This year, the women PDLs prepared a short program eagerly participated in by talented inmates, who sang, danced, acted as emcee.

 After the activity, one spoke in behalf of all the female wards of the facility, to express their gratitude to Zonta Club of Cebu II for a fun- filled afternoon. Everyone partook of the snacks and food, as eating is always part of any Christmas party.  (Photos: Zonta Club of Cebu II/Robby Alugar)

 

 

Seagrove, the new eco-fun tourism destination in Punta Engano, Mactan

MACTAN, Cebu -- Ayala Land Estates opened the Seagrove, Mactan’s newest eco-fun destination and first mixed-use seaside leisure estate in the Visayas at Seagrove’s scenic grounds at the Punta Engano resort corridor, located at the heart of Mactan, Cebu on December 14 this year.

Executives from the Ayala Land and Taft Properties described Seagrove as a coastal and leisure hub with a blast of culinary flavors of Sugbo Mercado and a new outdoor fun concept for skaters, bikers, roller skaters, runners and other sport enthusiasts, plus an environment-friendly walk paths/boardwalk, art/installation park, adventurers play spaces and more.

“When we first open the Sugbo Mercado here, we assembled our loyal tenants that bring you the best of Cebu’s wide array of food stalls for an exciting gastronomic scene at Seagrove,” John Paul Chiongbian, president, Sugbo Mercado, in his message during the opening event.

Visitors can indulge in an unforgettable journey reflecting Cebu’s rich food heritage, which is now gaining wider attention as a global culinary treasure.  Sugbo Mercado at Seagrove opened on December 15 – 17 (Friday to Sunday) from 4 pm to 9 pm. For this ceremonial soft opening at Seagrove.

Chiongbian said, what sets Sugbo Mercado apart is its refined and diverse range of homegrown talent and flavors. The food vendors here represent the best in Cebu who have honed their skills through various platforms and are ready to share their creations on a world-class stage like Seagrove.

Architect Bryan Auman of Bambu Technology Bikers shared his insights on the future look of Seagrove as an adventure/sports hub.  In addition to the delectable food offerings, Seagrove will open Cebu’s first Roll Park, a skate and bike park designed for active people and sports enthusiasts.  With its scenic and dedicated areas, Roll Park provides a safe and exciting arena for bikers, skateboarders, and rollerblade.

Auman said, Roll Park features various ramps, jumps, and obstacles for all skill levels. The park also offers bamboo bike rentals during special weekends, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the thrill of biking and skating.

(Photo: Island Nomad)

“We’re introducing bamboo and its technology at Seagrove showcasing the availability of Bamboo Bikes, bamboo plantations at the side of the park and the beauty of bamboo technology in various products,” Auman added.

Seagrove as a nature haven

To preserve the environment around Seagrove, the Ayala Land Estates is also working on the biodiversity conservation program with the Seagrove’s expansive mangrove forest and wealth of seaside natural attractions which are a balm for the soul and a feast for the senses.

Jennylle Tupaz of Ayala Land bared that the standout feature of Seagrove is its commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. The estate strictly follows eco-friendly principles, incorporating green spaces, energy-saving solutions, and effective waste management, among other green features.

She said Ayala Land has partnered with biologists and environmentalists in Cebu to help them take care of the seagrass, the mangroves and other coastal treasures in the area.  Seagrove will offer world-class leisure estate features: a coastal boardwalk, a nature park, an expansive mangrove forest, a nature-inspired pedestrian corridor, art installations by renowned artists, and a full range of experiences and services for discerning guests.

“That’s why stewardship is very important to us and maybe, we can even bring back the fireflies at the Seagrove area during the evening.  We’re excited for these developments, in the tradition of Ayala Land’s integrated, mixed-use developments approach to our projects,” Tupaz added.

 

The opening is just the first phase of what awaits visitors at Seagrove, Anonuevo said.  Seagrove will have its seaside cafes, boutiques, and restaurants; bike paths, iconic art installations, extensive shady tree-lined walkways, various water features, adventure play spaces, and spectacular views of Magellan Bay.

How to get to Seagrove.  Located in the resort area of Punta Engaňo Road, Lapu-Lapu City, Seagrove is minutes from the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Those from Metro Cebu can access Seagrove through the Serging Osmeña Bridge or Marcelo Fernan Bridge.

Direct PUV routes to and from Seagrove will also be made available starting December 14, 2023 through Ceres Bus and other PUV operators and will operate daily connecting Seagrove to Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu Business Park, Cebu IT Park, Mandaue, SM City, Mercado, Pacific Mall, Park Mall, and other areas in Punta Engaño. 

The ceremonial opening on December 14, 2023 was at Seagrove’s scenic grounds with guests included the representative from the LGU of Lapu-Lapu City; members of the media, Bambu Technology Bikers and Noponity Bikers Group; Grupo Nopo Skateboard group and the Sugbo Mercado team; Arch. Bryan Auman, Owner and Founder of Bradlab, and executives from Ayala Land and Taft Properties.

The event started with an official site blessing led by Fr. Melchor Rizon, followed by the ceremonial opening of the estate where guests enjoyed the best of Sugbo Mercado’s merchants and the first Roll Park in Cebu with the roller bladers and skateboarders joining in the fun and shoots.

For more information about Seagrove and all upcoming events, follow the official Seagrove Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/Seagrove. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

Gender-based concerns, issues highlighted via “ARTivism”

CEBU CITY – Zonta Club of Cebu II highlighted women’s issues and concerns via artistic production dubbed as “Women ARTivism” (Art+Activism) as its universal stance on various gender issues through different types of stage arts adopted by Abay sa Kahayag committee of Zonta Cebu II and staged at the lawn in Oakridge Garden Plaza, Mandaue City, at sunset, on November 26, 2023 as its major activity to commemorate the 18 Days of Activism against gender-based violence.

Zonta Sarah Mae Enclona-Henderson, chair of Women ARTivism 2023 described the production as a celebration of the beauty and strength of empowered women through a mix of art and activism.   It uses the power of performing arts to convey messages about the advocacies with performances in songs, dance, poem or a monologue that can amplify the voices of women.

“The performing arts can call for transformational changes among the audience.  We’d like those attending (the Women o ARTivism) to pick out the different advocacies that we have. Women who want to share their advocacies need not go to the streets. They can use their art to send a message,” Henderson said.

Gender issues and concerns included in the ARTvism were climate change, women empowerment, gender-based violence, and life as an activist, among others.

There were three monologues – Ang Rebolusyon Nagpuyo sa Akong Lawas by Riza Binarao, Ami Lavadia and Richel Ann Basiga, Woman by Sheng Pestaňo Gemperoa, and Movie Stars by Charlene Virlouvet. Ms. Virlouvet explained that Movie Stars highlights the effects of climate change.

Chona Tremedal, Marilou Cañizares, Flor Miel, Mildred Simolde, Hazel Espina, and Betty Veloso performed “Say Her Name”, a Tribute to Female Performing Artists Who Fought for Women’s Rights. The 2TinCans Theatre Company did a dramatic reading of Trafficking.

Apple Abarquez performed the Fight Song while Mikee Amagsila, Richel Basiga, and Davelyn Cuenco delivered two songs, Stand Up for Love and the Strong Women Anthem – Power/Born This Way/Edge of Glory mashup.

The audience also witnessed a short play, "Mga Misteryo sa Kinabuhi ni Maria” while the University of the Philippines Sayaw Evolution performed Babayeng Mag-uuma, Pangunahing Pwersa, a contemporary dance revolution against land industrialization and militarization.

Henderson explained that the human trafficking piece is based on real-life stories from interviews of trafficking survivors in Cebu.

The goal is that through the different stage art forms, the message pierces the hearts, and that the emotions of the audience start flowing to create empathy and commitment to help Stop All Forms of Violence against women and children. (Photos: Zonta Club of Cebu 11/Robby Alugar)