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Wednesday, May 11, 2016

FREE doughnuts to make your day sweeter from the SM Mobile App

SM Supermalls is bringing back its Download Win in-app mobile game and sweetening the deal by giving away Original Glazed® Krispy Kreme doughnuts each to 100 unique SM Supermalls mobile app registered users every day from April 30 to June 30, 2016


Embedded within the SM Supermalls Mobile App, “Download & Win” was the first digital scratch card promotion in the country. Its launch during SM Supermalls’ 30th Anniversary was marked with the giving away of exciting prizes such as free mobile data, free Spotify, Facebook, Games, Unli-Call and Unli Text every day for the entire month of March.

The celebration resumes this month with a shower of doughnuts! And joining can’t be simpler – just download the mobile app and get a chance to win. 

Upon signing up in the SM Supermalls mobile app, you will receive a digital scratch card on the app. Scratch off the gray area to find out if you won. Get another shot of winning the next day until the end of the promo period. With some good luck and the daily habit of checking the app, you’ll be closer to sinking your teeth into those craveable doughnut treats for free. 

The SM Supermalls Mobile App is free on Google Play Store and Apple App Store. 

Aside from this treat, there are also other reasons why I love about the #SMMobileApp

  • I am able to see current promotions in all SM branches.
  • I can filter it according to a specific location or mall
  • I can see list of stores and establishment
  • Checking cinema schedule has never been more accessible. 
  • You get exclusive coupons through the #SMMobileApp
  • It also allows you to save your parking details just to make sure you don't forget or get lost. 




To keep up to date on what’s new, visit SM Supermalls website or follow them on FacebookTwitterInstagram, Viber Public Chat, and Snapchat.


Friday, May 6, 2016

Letting The Dogs Out At The Spa

If you are like most pet owners, your dog is a member of the family. Treat your furry friend to a few hours at a pet spa in Plymouth MI. While there, the pet can receive a bath with luxurious products that leave the coat soft and shiny as well as other special services that will make your dog feel loved and relaxed. 

A pet spa is more than just a place where you can leave your pet so that you can go on vacation or if you need someone to watch your pet while you're at work. This is a facility that takes the time to get to know your pet in a way that makes it comfortable. You don't have to worry about who is taking care of your dog as the staff is trained and qualified to work with animals of almost all breeds and sizes. Staff members will make sure your dog is settled before doing any kind of work on the skin, coat or nails. 

When your pet is at a day spa, there is sure to be a lot of fun with other animals. It offers a way for the dog to get out of the house and away from closed quarters, playing outside with other dogs that are of similar sizes. Staff members can help dogs interact with each other, showing them the social skills that they need to play in a proper manner. If your dog is a biter, then being around other dogs can show yours that it's not right to bite others. When your dog begins to bite, the other dog will quickly let it know that it hurts and that the behavior is not allowed. 

A benefit of being at the spa is that the dog will be able to play for a few hours. There is time for a nap as well. Once the activity session is over, the dog can be bathed in a way that helps it feel relaxed. Nails can be clipped and painted, and the ears can be cleaned. A dog spa can provide enjoyment for both the pet and the owner in only a few short hours.


Thursday, May 5, 2016

Vote on May 9 and Get Rewarded

May 9 is another big day in our country's history. It a chance to exercise our rights to suffrage and choose a leader that we believe is best for our country with hopes of a brighter future. 2016 Elections is so huge that there are a lot of Election Day promos and discounts available. 

Regardless of the candidate you will be supporting, don't miss out on these special privileges for all voters.  Get these by simply flashing your dead nails.. (hahaha. kidding.) Just show them your voter's ink to take advantage of these election day special offers. 

1. Tenya Philippines
Promotion: Get 20% off on your total bill just by showing your your voter's ink.
Branches: All Tenya Branches (BGC Stopover, Market! Market!, SM Southmall and SM Megamall)
Terms and Conditions apply. 


Source: https://www.facebook.com/TenyaPhilippines

2. Racks
Promotion: Get 1 large side dish for FREE (minimum purchase of Php 500)
Branches: All Racks Branches
This promo is not valid in conjunction with other promos and discounts.


https://www.facebook.com/RacksPHL
3. Dairy Queen
Promotion: FREE Blizzard Upsize from Regular to Medium
Branches: All DQ Branches


Source: https://www.facebook.com/dairyqueenphilippine

4. Kanto Freestyle Breakfast
Promotion: FREE iced coffee when you dine at Kanto Freestyle Breakfast
Branches: #KantoKapitolyo#KantoMarikina, and #KantoMandaluyong

Source: https://www.facebook.com/kantofreestylebreakfast

5. Tokyo Tonteki Philippines
Promotion: Get 10% off on all items
Branches: Greenbelt 5


Source: https://www.facebook.com/tokyotontekiphilippines
6. MINISTOP
Promotion: Free Coke Mismo with any purchase. 
Branches: For the first 50 customers per store.


Source: https://www.facebook.com/MinistopPH

7. Folded and Hung
Promotion: 10% off with a minimum purchase of Php 1,500
Branches: All branches nationwide


Source: https://www.facebook.com/foldedandhung

8. Flawless Face and Body Clinic
Promotion: Get 50% OFF any facial treatment
Branches: Bacoor, Batangas, Calamba, Cebu, DasmariƱas, Lanang Davao, Greenhills, Lipa, Makati, Megamall, MOA, Sta. Rosa, Baliwag, Cubao, Fairview, Iloilo, Light, Manila, Marilao, North Edsa, Pampanga, San Lazaro, Sta. Lucia, Sta. Mesa, Trinoma & Bacolod



Source: https://www.facebook.com/FlawlessFaceandBody

9. Bangus Restaurant
Promotion: Free Iced Tea with your order
Branches: Greenhills and SM Mall of Asia


Source: https://www.facebook.com/Bangus-Restaurant-45703079247


10. Krispy Kreme
Promotion:  Just present your voting finger with indelible ink and your Krispy Kreme mobile app VOTE coupon to get a free Original Glazed doughnut
Branches: Fort, Greenhills, SM Mall of Asia, SM Baguio, Cebu IT Park, SM Bacolod, CDO Limketkai and SM Ecoland Davao


Source: https://www.facebook.com/krispykremeph

Disclaimer: My Metro Lifestyle is not liable for any changes in promotion or additional terms and conditions not mentioned in the featured promotions. Please take time to verify with the host of the promotion for complete details. 

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Book Review: Mommy Loves You Just The Same by Teresa Dumadag

Have you ever heard stories about older kids wishing that their new baby brother or sister be back in their mother's womb?

Well, I have and it happened within my own family. I am the youngest of the 3 siblings and with a 6 and 8-year gap. They said that my brother was a bit jealous and wants to stay as the "baby" in the family even though he is already 6 years old. He kept on bugging my mom to put me back where I can from. Well, it's funny but true.

So when I found this upcoming children's book by Teresa G. Dumadag entitled Mommy Loves Me Just The Same, it reminded me of that story. The book was written while she was pregnant with her 3rd child to help inspire moms to breastfeed continuously (tandem feed if needed) and to involve the older kids in caring for their younger sibling. The book provides ideas for older siblings on how they can bond with the coming baby even while still in their mother’s womb and what they can do to help when the baby arrives. It's also a great tool that moms can use to assure their older children that their love for them remains the same even with an additional child in the family.


I believe that this can benefit other moms and families. It is highly recommended for moms who are expecting another child or who gave birth to another child not so long ago. It will help moms assure their older kids that their love for them remains the same even with the coming of another baby. It also provides ideas on how the older sibling can help prepare for the baby's coming and take care of the baby when the baby arrives.

It is a good read for both moms and older children. The message has been captured in a simple yet meaningful approach that was brought to life through the beautiful illustrations by Jia Rubio- Monserrat.

Sunday, May 1, 2016

Mothers and Babies from the South Gathered for the Great Cloth Diaper Change

The Great Cloth Diaper Change (GCDC) by South PiNanays (SPiN) was held at Festival Mall, Alabang last April 23, 2016. It was a great success with 69 mommy and baby pairs who simultaneously changed baby diapers to celebrate this worldwide gathering.. This event was done in partnership with Modern Cloth Nappying Pinays (MCNP), Breastfeeding Pinays, Mommy Talk Philippines, and Newlyweds@Work.


Source: Ingente-Valencerina Photography
The GCDC is an annual worldwide event created by the Real Diaper Association that aims to spread awareness about the benefits of cloth diapering, advocating cloth diapers as an environment-friendly choice for families. This year, there were 235 registered GCDC events in 19 countries, eight were held in the Philippines, one of which was the SPiN event in Alabang.
Aside from the actual diaper change, there was also a mini-bazaar featuring small mom-owned businesses that offered family-friendly products. There were also talks about cloth diapering, breastfeeding, and oral care and dental health for children.
Source: Ingente-Valencerina Photography

Source: Ingente-Valencerina Photography


Source: Ingente-Valencerina Photography
There were also free fluoride applications for the kids and free haircuts for the mommies and daddies. Lots of raffle and game prizes were given away throughout the day. Sponsors for the SPiN GCDC were Festival Mall, David's Salon, Sylergy, Sydenase, Tempra, Green Cross, Zonrox, PeeWee Explorers, The Nest, Kidsmile Pediatric Dental Clinic, and Ingente-Valencerina Photography.


Source: Ingente-Valencerina Photography
Source: Ingente-Valencerina Photography
If you are wondering what SPiN is all about, it was Established in October 2013 and officially registered as an NGO last July 2015 as South PiNanays Women Empowerment, Inc. (SPiN). It is mainly a breastfeeding and parenting support group for mothers and families living in Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Quezon. The group aims to educate, support, and empower the community, one baby, one mom, one family at a time.

If you are not yet a part of this wonderful group, check out our group in facebook and follow the instructions on how to be a member.

To all the organizers and members of SPiN, congratulations for this beautiful and meaningful event. Looking forward to more SPiN activities and events.

Go Green and Practical with California EcoBike

With crazy heat and the scary weather patterns, we no longer need more evidence that the ill effects of climate change is here. 

Though some say that the effects are irreversible, I am encouraging everyone that we can still do something about it by not making it worse. 

The use of eco-friendly energy source like solar panels as well as eco-friendly transportation alternatives is a must nowadays. Not to mention that the fuel prices continues to soar every week, add that to the burden of motorists and commuters alike as horrendous traffic in the metro persist. Thus, the use of electronic bikes is a smart choice.  

These E-bikes can either charge on an electrical outlet or completely off-grid through solar charging. These should lower fumes on the road caused by petroleum type fuel and considerably cheaper if not free. 

With the steady growth of e-bike followers, California Ecobike is gearing towards its mission to improve transportation in an eco-friendly way, one e-bike at a time. With their continuous effort in offering various alternative, here are two of their newest model:




Apart from it's advantages, I would like to share to my readers more reasons to switch to e-bikes. CD-R King and California Ecobike will be holding this promotion, Libreng E-bike that will run from April 15 to May 15, 2016, and here are the mechanics: 

1. Participants must purchase one (1) unit of E-bike worth P10,000 or more to qualify for this promo.

2. Participant must sign an application form and submit 2 valid IDs to join. Approved participants will be given a referral ID card.

3. Participant must accompany each of their referred buyers during the purchase.

4. A successful referral can only be approved if the following conditions are met:

a.) Each of the referred buyer bought an E-bike worth 10,000 or higher.

b.) The transaction was made within the promo period. 

c.) The transaction was made on the same branch where the participant enlisted in.

5. After completing 10 successful transactions, the participant can avail 1 free Reedley2 E-bike.

6. To claim the free Reedley2 E-bike, participant must present his/her Referral ID card along with 2 valid IDs. After 3 working days, store will call up the participant for claiming.

7. Redemption period is up to 60 days from the end of promo.

Also, here's another good news for Two wheels enthusiasts on the North: 

CD-R King and California E-bike are testing the market as it initially offer the iRover and Malibu for rent for mall-goers of Star Mall, San Jose. With a minimal fee of as low as Php30, Mall goers can rent these gadgets to be used within the mall vicinity. Renter should have a valid ID for processing.



For further inquiries visit www.ebike.cdrking.com or their facebook page

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

‪#‎LetsSpreadHappy‬ Everyday!

I have always believed that happiness is a choice. Our decisions in life and the consequences that we are willing to take are the key factors in our personal happiness. It's either about being contented of what we have or about reaching our dreams and goals in life. 

The only most important thing that we have to remember is that we have to begin with ourselves to be happy. I am very grateful that I found my true bliss and passion in life. At the age of 30, I was able to figure out what I want to do. 

I am not an office girl with her dream job. I am actually a work-at-home professional and I can say that it is not as easy as it seems. I have several (currently 4) part-time jobs that never makes me bored. 

I used to work for international clients I met through Upwork however late last year, I have decided to work for Filipino clients instead. I believe that our talents should be shared to others in helping their businesses grow and I guess it is about time, we help out start-ups and SMEs in our country first. Just like the famous line "Para sa ekonomiya" It definitely brings much joy to know that you have helped another Filipino through your expertise. 

Apart from work, I also manage our little rental shop, Bacolod DIY Party Rentals. It just opened a few months ago and it grew out of my love for themed and styled parties. I want to inspire people to be creative and have beautiful parties in their own homes by providing them decorations and equipment that are affordable. 

Am I busy every day? Definitely. However, on rare occasions, I still find time to write and blog after a hectic day of household chores, wife and furmommy duties, work and business. Some ask, how do I have all the energy to balance everything?  

Well, let me share with you my secret. I make sure that I start my day right. My typical mornings start with a prayer, quiet time with my plants and not so quiet time with my dogs, a heavy breakfast and Enervon C. 


Yes, Enervon C helps me have the energy to be happy. So, make the right decisions. Choose to be happy. Find your bliss and passion and don't forget that once you have found happiness, please don't stop there.  #LetsSpreadHappy everyday! 

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Novuhair Launches Enhanced Formulation Made of 19 Natural Ingredients

Hair loss and unhealthy scalp are one of common concerns nowadays experienced not by the oldies but rather those from the 30-40 age group. Upon consultation with a medical professional, I was told that there are several factors causing this condition yet the most common one is STRESS. 

It is pretty crazy that the problem that's stressing you out is caused by stress itself. For both men and women, getting bald is definitely stressful. So, how do you do you fix that? 

Well, we can now all say goodbye to hair loss and scalp problems with the newly-enhanced formulation of Novuhair.  With 19 natural ingredients, the leading medicated topical scalp lotion is now almost 100% natural. 



The Novuhair Topical Scalp Lotion used to only have 12 natural ingredients. Its improved formulation has a much better fragrance and a cool and minty feel. It also has anti-dandruff properties, as well as nourishing and moisturizing effects on the hair and scalp,” said Sheila Mae Velilla, CEO of Nutramedica, developer and distributor of Novuhair.

Aside from producing a more effective solution for hair growth, the changes were necessary to make the product 100% compliant to the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD).

“Nature has provided a safe and effective answer to hair loss and scalp disorders with Novuhair. It is the only topical scalp lotion in the market that has the highest concentration of natural ingredients, FDA-certified and ACD-compliant. Novuhair is a homegrown, proudly Philippine-made product that is globally competitive. ” added Velilla.

Made of herbal ingredients that include moringa oleifera, panax ginseng, virgin coconut oil and the natural essences of rosemary and peppermint, Novuhair nourishes the scalp and hair by increasing the flow of nutrients and improving blood circulation to the scalp. Novuhair also helps hydrate the scalp, maintain the hair’s natural luster and prevent early hair graying, hair dryness and itching. 

Nutramedica is going global and will start shipping Novuhair to the USA, Middle East, Europe and Asia. The first batch of shipment to the USA will be available in California by second quarter of 2016. The company has obtained partnership with a distributor in Kuwait, and is currently facilitating product registration in Denmark.

Novuhair has been awarded by Watsons Philippines as the Most Successful New Brand of the Year in 2012 and has been recognized as the leading Medicated Hair Care Brand from 2012 to 2015. Just recently, they introduced Filipino music icon Gary Valenciano as their latest endorser.



Novuhair Topical Scalp Lotion, Shampoo and Conditioner are available in all Mercury Drug Stores and other leading drug stores nationwide. For more information visit www.novuhair.com, like the brand’s official Facebook Page at Novuhair Official, and follow it on Twitter at @NovuhairNatural. You may also call the Novuhair hotlines at 4136570 and 09228830575 and order online at Lazada and regaloservice.com.

Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Great Summer Calls for Great Photos

Photographs are considered as integral part of man’s existence since its inception back in the 1800’s. A  breakthrough that gave a portraitist and its subject time saving and an ease to a consistently excruciating pose to achieve such perfection of a desired imagery. 

This is as they say is all about "Capturing the precise moment." We are lucky to have been born in time where cameras are available. It is such joy to reminisce the past by looking at our birthday photos, first times in our lives and other important events. 

We are the generation that grew up transitioning from traditional cameras (the ones with films) to digital which ranges from an ordinary point-and-shoot digicam to SLRs, DSLRs, camera phones and now the popular action cams. 

With the given technology, one need not be a superb artist nor professional photographer to capture precious family bonding moments, summer outdoor activities and amazing rendezvous, on or below sea level. Facilities offering extreme adventures such as Zip line and the likes are mushrooming everywhere. Active lifestyle is the in-thing that needs a gadget that corresponds and chronicles each memorable experience. 

Cd-r King, Your one-stop media provider offer its patron, The Action Cam.




It has a waterproof casing with waterproof rating of IP68 (Ingress Protection). Cd-R King’s Action Cam carries an LCD Display of 1.5" TFT (Thin Film Translator) and is HDMI 1080p capable with Image Resolution capacity of 4000x3000/3648x2736/3264x2448/2560x1920 and Video Resolution of 1920x1080@30FPS1280x720@60FPS/1280x720@FPS.



Official Specification:

 Mode: Capture/Video/Setup/Playback
 File Format: MOV (H.264)/jpeg
 Lens View Angle: 120 degree
 Build in Wifi: IEEE 802.11B/G/N
 I/O port: Mini HDMI/Micro USB
 USB 2.0 Interface
 Charging time: up to 5 hrs
 Actual usage time: up to 1.5hours
 Supports: Micro SD card up to 32 GB
 Battery: 1000mAh

It is not a surprise that CD-R King have their own version of the popular cam with is definitely affordable and of good quality. If you are planning on getting one, watch this video taken using CD-R King's The Action Cam.


Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Puppies, Death and Moving On

I have been a pet parent to Crumpy for 10 years. Having only one furbaby at home, I was not really concerned about having puppies until the time we rescued and adopted, Cheesecake. (See separate story about the rescue, here.)

Well, we really did not want another puppy since we all know that having one is a lifetime commitment however, we can't really stop the "uncontrollable" especially that we have one male and one female dog. (You know what I mean.) 

I just took note of the date when it happened so that at least if Cheesecake gets pregnant, I would know when to expect her delivery. Well, she really got pregnant and last March 5, 2016, was the big day. I was excited and scared at the same time. Cheesecake started panting and was very uneasy. She did not want to stay in the whelping box we prepared. (I guess it was my fault since we really did not train her to stay there and she's so used staying on the little bed we made for her inside our room.) I was so lost and have no idea what will happen. Val had to go to work so technically, I am the only adult or let's say human at home. I have been researching online on what to expect, dangers and what should I do in case of an emergency. I even contacted my cousin, Macil whose a doctor and my friend Jen who recently had a dog that gave birth. I was like a husband outside the delivery room -- excited, scared and helpless as I hear Cheesecake crying, panting while giving birth. 

She gave birth at exactly 12:36 AM. I wasn't sure if it's a boy or girl and was undecided with a name. We wanted it to start with the Letter C just like his parents, Crumpy and Cheesecake. I was so happy to see the little puppy beside Cheesecake though I won't be able to hold her yet. I was so contented watching her from afar. I did not sleep that night. I just wanted to make sure that they are both safe and okay. 



It is a wonderful feeling of seeing another bundle of joy coming into our life. Our family is getting bigger. I did not care about our plan not to have another dog anymore. More barks mean more fun. I was ready for another lifetime commitment to see those little toes grow, watch those little eyes open kiss that red nose (just like Crumpy's) and give this little furbaby a life that she deserves. 

Day 2 was as just as wonderful. I was very concerned about the welfare of Cheesecake. She was still heavily panting and I was so worried since I read stories about placenta did not go out or other pregnancy complications. Good thing, Cheesecake was eating and drinking well. We found out that furbaby was a girl yet still do not have a name. We decided to call her "Baby" for the time being. She was okay and got all the attention of Cheesecake since there are no other puppies. We moved them to the living room since it was warmer. Unfortunately, Cheesecake was crying all night since she was not used to sleeping away from us. We all decided to sleep downstairs instead and slept together. This is what Ohana is all about. Well, I was not really able to sleep well. A little bit of sound and I would wake up immediately. I was just so worried and scared. 

Then the worst thing happened, it was the afternoon of March 7 when we lost "Baby" It was only a few hours that I was not really paying attention since I had to work. I work from home but had to send out some emails for a client so I stayed inside the room leaving them outside. Perhaps it was after 2 hours that I was not able to check on them when I saw "Baby" lifeless. I was shouting and crying at the same time. I did not know what to do during emergency situations. I did not know what was wrong but I lost our little furbaby. 

It was painful. When you treat someone as your family, it would not matter how long you had each other. She was able to capture my heart immediately. I cried and cried. No matter how painful it is, I realized that you still have to do what you have to do. I looked for a box where we can place her. I made a little bed inside the box and placed her there like a little angel sleeping. However, I asked Val to close the box because I can't do it myself. We decided to bury her in the garden the same night. Lit a candle, placed some flowers and offered her a prayer. 

I was lost. It was heartbreaking. Val had to work that night. I had to deal this on my own. There was a feeling of guilt. I felt I did not do enough for her. I was thinking of what I have done wrong. Tears were just overflowing. It was one of the saddest moments of my life. 

Whenever I think of her, I still cry. They say that crying is part of moving on and moving on is not about forgetting. It is all about acceptance of what happened while keeping the memories inside your heart. 

I am writing this since it's been a month since we lost her. In memory of my little furbaby, please remember that you will always be loved. Have fun in the rainbow bridge. 

Sunday, April 3, 2016

No More Hassles for Home Improvements

You're ready to tear your hair out. You're tired of looking at the same arrangements in your home and you are ready for a change. You have an extra bedroom that make a great office. You think it's time to add one more bathroom to give everyone in the family more flexibility. The kitchen is another priority. You want to enhance this space that acts as the heart of your home. That's all well and good, but you have no idea where to get started.

Be Specific About What You Want
If you are going to give your home an overhaul, you don't want to be vague about it. Whether you review magazines, look online, or get home improvement books, take a look at your alternatives. Find exactly what you want for your home. This will give you a starting point. It will also help you when you are dealing with contractors. If you are going to get a good idea of what will be involved in your project, you need to know where you are going. 



Compare Contractors
Don't jump at the first name you see. You may have friends or family members that have recommended reputable companies to take on your renovations. Before you settle for anyone, make sure that you have explored all of your options. With Renovation Experts, you will have access to a network of contractors that includes thousands of qualified providers from across the country. When you fill out the online form that is available or call in to provide the details about your project, you can sit back and relax. Someone will be in touch with you. As area contractors receive the details about your project, they will contact you in order to review the job. They'll also offer you an estimate, helping you to make an informed decision. You want to know what you are getting into before you hire anyone.

See Your Project Take Shape

After considering your options, comparing quotes, and looking at reviews, you can select a contractor who will take your ideas and put them into action. You'll finally get what you want out of your home. It simply takes placing your home in good hands. Get a quote for free here from Renovation Experts. It won't cost you a dime and will give you the thrill of getting started.

Renovation Experts - http://renovationexperts.com/contactus.asp

Friday, April 1, 2016

Filipino meets Mark Zuckerberg and had My Facebook Friends Day Experience

I have always wondered what is it like to meet one of the geniuses of our time. Last January 31, 2016, fellow Filipino Abby Asistio was very lucky to fly to San Francisco and have the wonderful opportunity of being chosen as one of the eighteen invited by Facebook on their 12th Anniversary Friends Day celebration with California-based Alopecia awareness advocate, Rachel Regal.  


Alopecia is an autoimmune condition which results in partial or total head and body hair loss.  Abby Asistio have had it since she was four while Rachel just developed it sometime in 2012, the same year she discovered that her 10-year-old daughter, Eliana, had it, too.  Six inspiring stories were picked by Facebook among its 1.64 billion users and Abby’s friends were all amazed when they’ve found out that Abby’s Alopecia story was one of them.  Isn't it amazing?

Abby and Rachel met each other through the double A hand sign campaign that Abby started in 2012, and They've been "connected" since then.  Last year, Facebook Stories featured how these two were able to build a friendship, as well as campaign for disease awareness through Facebook!  And last February 1st, Abby and Rachel had the chance to tour FB headquarters in Menlo Park, San Francisco, meet and chat with the people behind Facebook (Founder & CEO Mark Zuckerberg, COO Sheryl Sandberg, CPO Chris Cox, and a whole lot of awesome people), get crazy cool gadgets and have one of the best experiences of their lives.



Abby recounted that it was such a surreal feeling to be in the same room as the creator of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg. Mark Z was wearing his trademark look (jeans, sneakers, shirt and a big smile on his face), and had such a friendly, approachable aura and demeanor about him.  Not at all intimidating!  He shared stories about how the company started, its mission-vision, the ups and downs that come along, and their future plans.  Those invited also had the chance to ask him questions. When Mark Z was asked about achieving success and life’s “impossibilities”.  He said, “There’s a difference between impossible and things taking a really long time. Even if you’re not going to be able to do something in a short time period, if you care about something, you want to see the world to move into that direction…  So the best thing to do is just get started and not be discouraged.  It’s tough because this stuff is hard, or else people would’ve already done it.”

Abby Asistio got the chance to ask a question to one of the world’s 50 most powerful, successful women in business, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg.  Aside from Alopecia awareness, Abby is also an active Real Beauty advocate with girls and women struggling with various insecurities, being so consumed by the world’s unrealistic and sometimes superficial standards of beauty.  So Abby asked Sheryl about her perception of it.  Sheryl said that beauty is just like success and that no one could really define it for you.  We are all unique.  We have different stories, dreams and desires. We should explore our own inner and outer beauty, believe and embrace that we are beautiful, and never allow anyone to tell us otherwise.



Mark capped off his talk by sharing their company philosophy with everyone present. Though already having over 1 billion subscribers, there are still 7 billion people all over the world without access to all the meaningful connections and information that Facebook brings.  One thing that the company stands by is that “things are always 1% completed”.  It keeps them grounded, reminding them that there is always so much work, growth and progress to be done, and so many people to reach out to and help.

Everything about the Facebook trip was overwhelming and inspiring according to Abby.  More than anything, it reminded her about “responsibility”.  We are all given our own platforms, in this case “accounts and connections”, to make a dent in this world.  It is up to us to become complacent and take these vehicles for granted, or maximize the opportunities and use them to make a positive impact in this generation.  Abby is grateful that Facebook has become a medium for her to communicate disease awareness and touch people beyond the confines of her tiny room and her country.  Abby is also glad that she and Rachel are two out of millions of people choosing to recognize the importance of social media in contributing to making this world a better place, and actually doing something about it.

Truly, God plans the best adventures and creates the most beautiful surprises.  Abby knows that she wouldn't have been handpicked for this if it weren't for Him, as well as the countless individuals who have cared and showed support for my advocacy.  Abby would like to leave a positive thought to everyone that we should really take the time to search for and identify our “purpose” – that one unique, very specific calling that is the result of our talents, dreams, desires, passions and experiences.  Once you find it, be faithful to it no matter how long or difficult the journey towards its fulfillment may be.  You’ll never know where it could lead to, how far it could go and how large it could grow.  

Abby is also thankful that her campaign continues to spread and reach new heights and she is particularly grateful to Facebook for giving her this opportunity and to Novuhair, Nature's Answer to Hair Loss (www.novuhair.com), for always being so supportive of her advocacy and endeavors.  



Abby is proud and honored to have represented the Philippines and the Alopecia community in this once-in-a-lifetime, international event. Check out Abby's friends day song.