A Visit To Amherst Laboratories

Ever wonder how your medicines and vitamins are made? Sometimes, when I buy a product and look at its packaging I wonder that to myself: the process of making it, how they mix the ingredients, how they form it in its shape, how they pack each one and how much time the whole process takes. I am a natural born curious cat and its innate in me to find out things that stimulates my curiosity, but ofcourse not everything is found over the net. So when I was given a chance to visit Unilab's Plant in Laguna, I immediately grabbed the chance.

With the Mommy Bloggers!

Amherst Laboratories, subsidiary of United Laboraties, Inc. is situated somewhere in Mamplasan, Binan, Laguna. It's 2.4 hectares Pharmaceutical Plant boast it's state of the art, advanced technology manufacturing facilities designed to produce a variety of ethical or prescription drugs most common in the market in solid, semi-solid and liquid dosage forms.

All those in the shelves are Unilab Medicines and Vitamins. Cool huh!

Just more than an hour trip to and we've reached the place. It was definitely huge. Before we proceed with the plant tour we had our orientation first.

After that, the tour begins! To start off, we were told that the Laboratory is a highly sensitive facility with regards to sanitation. After crossing the beam, they are making sure that no bare footwear will step on their flooring. They provided shoe covers for us to wear before we go to the other side of the room. There were also lab gowns in different sizes that we should wear before entering the facilities.

They take sanitation seriously that's why I am serious. LOL! :P

When we got in, the sanitation measure continuous. We need to soap up our hands and dry it on a special blower machine to make sure we won't contaminate the place. When we're done and hands are all clean, the tour began!

Washing hands!

Look Mom! It's queaky clean!

We went to various places where medicines are made from solid to liquid forms, from big machines that process the ingredients, to packaging, everything is very meticulously done. They are very strict with product testings and handling to make sure of its efficacy and purity.

Manager of different departments joined us and explained the process of how they make the medicines we use in a simple way that we can understand. They were also very accommodating if we have questions or clarifications on the information that they share with us.

Medicines are checked individually for consistency.

Everything is well monitored, even the temperature to secure potency of the drugs.

Even the packaging takes careful handling to ensure everything is perfect.

After the tour, we had a chance to get together over a scrumptious lunch at Crisostomo's and a relaxing massage over at Indulgence Spa at Nuvali, Laguna.

Had a one hour relaxing massage. Great!

My curiosity on how medicines are made finally came to an end. After seeing the process and how meticulous and sanitized it was made, not to mention the assurance of efficacy for each and every one, I am more confident about the Unilab products I use at home. From facial care products to lotions to topical and oral medications, I am sure that what we use is clean and effective. Moreover, it's affordable and easy on the budget!

I would like to thank Ms. Rochelle Leonor Del Callar for the wonderful opportunity to visit Amherst Plant in Laguna and be in the company of great Mommy Bloggers as well. Most especially to Unilab for making quality, effective and affordable medicines and vitamins for every Filipino families!

Now, I'm thinking of pursuing a career in Medicine because I love how the laboratory gown feels and looks on me. LOL! :P

Next time you buy products from the Pharmacy, ask for a Unilab product and I'm sure you won't regret buying, kasi "UNILAB YAN!"

Good Vibes Everyone and Sweet Running!

My Run United Philippine Marathon 2012 Experience

Being a part of the firsts is very memorable and indeed, it has been proven once again as we became a part of the first ever Run United Philippine Marathon.

I did a very minimal preparation for this race. I am just too busy with work and some obligations that I need to comply. I never missed a swim training though, and I have been improving. Well, I think I am.

I am not surprised that the 21K slots were filled up so fast and I'm glad I'm one of those who got it before the last batch, or else I'll be forced to do 42K, which I am surely not ready yet for. Also, Ethan is very excited as well since this will be his revenge from not being able to run at Run United 3 because of the heavy rains.

The last day before the race, I was not even feeling that it's coming. I don't know. Maybe I'm just so pre occupied. I just felt the chills at the night when I realized I failed to buy power gels. I scouted for some on my things and found samplers. I know this is not the right thing to do but I'll still bring them just in case they might come in handy.

I still managed to get a good six hour sleep, which is just enough for me to get my body ready. I just ate a cup of yogurt before I prepped up and I'm off.

When I got to BGC, the 42K gun was already fired. While walking to the venue, I saw the Kenyans all powered up, running like a horse in the lead pack. They are indeed so strong and they show no sign of slowing down or even tiring themselves out.

When we got to the starting line, me and Che-Anne talked out what time is our target. I told her I'm happy just to make it before three hours. But when we started to run, I felt a certain strength rushing in me. Surprisingly, I am having an easy time starting out, which is very rare. After the 5th Kilometer I told her we can make it to 2:50, and we just went on the race.

After a few minutes, Tessa came rushing in. She was again late from the gunstart and was rushing to catch us, and she never fails to do so. Since then it was the three of us, and our pack became stronger.

The only photo I got taken from the route (Photo courtesy of Pinoyfitness.com)

We reached our first hour while we are at the 8th Kilometer. This is fast than my usual so we tried our best to maintain it that way. The weather was so forgiving to me that no single droplet of rain came in, and it was not too hot as well. The new power gel also was very kind that it did not gave me an upset stomach. I did not grab any banana this time. I don't wanna stuff myself too much. I don't want to get heavy as it might drag me to slow down. The only place we stop is at the hydration stations. I will never take hydration for granted ever!

Second hour, we are at 15th Kilometer. Usually this is the time I feel so tired but I was not. I am still so strong and running. This is insane! I am so fueled up that I don't want to stop as I might halt completely. i don't want to lose the momentum I had. Only six kilometers to go and were done. So I told the girls we'll try and hit 2:45 and if we do, this will be my new personal best at a 21K distance race.

I'm so hyped up. I am trying to pick up my pace so to get to the time I set or before it. But after 19th kilometer, that's where I felt drained. I tried loading up on raisins but it did not work. I now felt the tiredness from all that running with less stops but still I'm trying my best to finish at the time I set.

The last kilometer was a series of stops and go for us. I am trying to distract myself so I can keep on running. I don't even care about the cameras at the finishline anymore. A few minutes away before the clock strikes. Unfortunately, I was still at the route when 2:45 came in. I was a bit disheartened but still I pushed through, and I finished strong! 

Happy to finish injury free! (Photo credits to Phillip BF Photography)

What I like most about finishing early is I was able to get my finishers shirt and loot bag easily, and I was able to see my son race!

Posing with our hard earned medals! ^_^

With Tessa who came in just minutes away after I finished. (Photo courtesy of Ma. Theresa Almendrala)

Running to inspire fellow diabetics and to prove that it can be done!

After a few days the race result came out, and I was surprised and shocked! I clocked in at officially 2:46:50, still a new personal best since my previous was 2:48!

I am finally out of the last runner's list!

Confirmed! I am now an AVERAGE RUNNER! ^_^

Insane as it is, the result I got is still unbelievable given that I am not that prepared for this race. I am so happy!

The results can be seen here: http://www.runpix.info/arace7/00/mlb12/ge.php

The three piece medal fused with the huge 21K medal and these is what I got.

Right after I made myself comfortable at home, I worked on putting these altogether. While putting one to connect with another, I took time to look at it first. Every piece has its own story to tell: those pains, heartaches, disappointments, tears, laughter, chats, first experiences, random surprises, love and friendships.

More than completing the series and getting these medals, I am happier about the experiences each of them represents.

I would like to sincerely thank Runrio Inc. and Unilab Active Health for all the assistance provided to me. My TIP Running Club, Team Kamote Runners and Team Triabetics family for the never ending support. Some significant people whom I owe so much, Ms. Rochelle Del Callar, Ms. Claire De Leon - Papa, Ms. Janice Ianne Miguel and Sir Poch Bermudez, thank you so much for the generosity and for believing in me. Also, to my ever dedicate pacer, Cheryl Anne Lumanog and Ma Theresa Almendrala for making the road a friendlier path to pass by. Most especially, to God for giving me the strength, courage and for showing me the right way to go.

Congratulations to all the finishers and I know you also got great stories and memories behind your medals. Let's use it to get motivated on our future race towards a healthy, active and quality life! ^_^

Looking forward for Run United for this coming 2013!

Good Vibes everyone and Sweet Running! ^_^

VitaPops Wacky Science Fair Event

Last Sunday, October 21st after my swim training at MASA, I attended the launch of the newest Unilab product for kids named VitaPops.

The event happened at Mall of Asia. It was so festive. The booth arrangements was well thought of. Bright colors of orange and purple with the presence of clowns, magicians and other acts made the event felt like a classic circus fair.

The stage is set!

We came in earlier so Ethan get to experience all the booths. He particularly likes the booth were he rode a twist car and create an art using colors that turn into rubber. With just a purchase of  50 pesos worth of VitaPops will entitle you to get access to the event and visit the booths. Even my Mom got her nail art and was so happy with it!

After we visited the booths, we had a buffet lunch at EBUN Restaurant just near the venue. We enjoyed the Filipino food they served. The Nilagang Baka's soup is just simply delicious!

At around 2:00PM, the official launch started. With the host, Ms. Rikka Dylim and the product endorser, Ms. Daphne Osena-Paez, they started to talk about this exciting product. Then, a short presentation was conducted by Dra. Jenee Virtudazo, a registered nutritionist and dietitian from FNRI.

The panel (L-R Ms. Rikka Dylim, Daphne Osena-Paez, Mr. Joseph Aruta and Dra. Jenee Virtudazo)

Afterwards, the floor was opened for those who would like to ask questions. I also raised my own question as well and we are entertained by Mr. Joseph Aruta, the Brand Manager of VitaPops. Here are some questions and answers raised during the event:

Question: How much sugar is in VitaPops?
Answer: Compared to other brands, it is 1/5 lesser.

Question: What causes the fizzling when eaten? Is there a chemical used for it?
Answer: VitaPops is in Poprocks Candy version. The candy was infused with fast evaporating Carbon Dioxide which causes the fizzling in the mouth. It is perfectly safe for children.

Question: Since this is such a sweet treat, should we worry about overdose?
Answer: There is no Vitamin C overdose that is harmful. Anything beyond will be secreted through the urine.

Question: Can adults take this as well?
Answer: Ofcourse!

Some things you need to know about VitaPops:

• It has 30mg of Vitamin C in every sachet
• It has less sugar
• Vitamin C is in the form of Sodium Ascorbate so it's tummy friendly
• It's a sweet treat kids will beg for more!
• It comes in Orange flavor. (But I suggested they make other ones like strawberry! ^_^)

My Mom was so happy to have a photo with Ms. Daphne!

After the presentation, I had a chance to meet and greet Ms. Daphne Osena-Paez and have a photo taken of her with my mom and Ethan.

Here are some of the photos I took when me and Ethan stroll around the booths.

The big balloon tent

Ethan build the blocks in less time than others. Strong and smart! ^_^

He loves this twist car we have to fall in line over and over!

This captured his artistic skills. He enjoyed filling the pattern with colors and look how nice it ended up! ^_^

Ms. Daphne, Ethan and the VitaPops kids!

After the event while on our way home, Ethan is still asking to stay at the booths. He super enjoyed it!

The first time he tried VitaPops he did not like it. The fizzling sensation is very new to him since I never gave him Poprocks ever before because I watch out on his sugar intake to let him stay away from diabetes. But after finishing one pack he opt to try one more, and more until he finished one box!

He just can't get enough of this stuff!

Now that coughs and colds are very much in season because of the drastic weather changes, it is a must to load up on Vitamin C to protect our children from getting the disease. Better get the utmost prevention for them to reduce or maybe eliminate the number of their sick days.

Because of the less sugar content of this product, I am considering putting a sachet in my purse for a quick treat whenever and wherever I need it.

We love this Photobooth photo! ^_^

Thank you so much Ms. Rochelle Del Callar for inviting us over to this wonderful carnival of fun, learning and being healthy event. Congratulations Unilab for the success of this event and for coming up with another great product that will help parents give vitamins to their kids in a delightful way.

For more information about VitaPops, please visit the Unilab Website or check out their Facebook Page, Vitapops Wacky Science.

Good Vibes Everyone and Sweet Running! ^_^

Run United Philippine Marathon 2012

2012 Run United Philippine Marathon will be held on October 28, 2012 with Ceelin 500m, Hydrite 3K, Dolfenal 5K, Enervon HP Recovery 10K, Alaxan FR 21K and Enervon Activ 42K race categories. All categories except for 42K and 21K will have start and finishline at the SM Mall of Asia while 42K and 21K will start at Bonifacio Global City and finish at SM Mall of Asia.

REGISTRATION VENUES:

Online Registration: September 24 to October 14, 2012
In-Store Registration: October 8 to October 26, 2012

RIOVANA

• BGC – 28th Street corner 9th Ave., Bonifacio Global City – Monday to Sunday from 12NN to 9PM
  
• KATIPUNAN – 3rd Floor Regis Center, Katipunan, QC (infront of ADMU) – Tuesday to Sunday, 10AM to 8PM

TOBY'S

• SM Mall of Asia – Monday to Sunday, 12PM to 8PM
• Trinoma – Monday to Sunday, 12PM to 8PM

REGISTRATION FEES:

CATEGORY	REGISTRATION FEE	INCLUSIONS
		PRE-RACE	AFTER RACE
500m	Php350	Singlet, Bib w/ B-tag/ Riovana 10% Discount Stub/ Raffle Stub	RUPM Commemorative Bag & Drinks, Race Analysis
3K	Php600
5K	Php700
10K	Php800
21K	Php900	Singlet, Bib w/ B-tag/ Riovana 10% Discount Stub/ Raffle Stub	RUPM Medal, Finishers Shirt, RUPM Commemorative Bag & Drinks, Race Analysis
42K	Php1,300

ASSEMBLY AND GUN START TIMES:

CATEGORY	ASSEMBLY TIME	GUN TIME
500m	6:00AM	7:00AM
3K	4:30AM	6:00AM
5K	4:30AM	5:45AM
10K	4:30AM	5:30AM
21K	3:30AM	4:00AM
42K	2:30AM	3:00AM

RACE MAP:

Get a chance to own your very own limited edition RUPM race singlets and kits when you participate in the 1st ever RUPM. These special items will forever serve as your badges of participation in this historic event - a run of national pride and prestige.

SINGLET:

Upon in-store registration, participants will instantly receive their limited edition Run United Philippine Marathon race singlet.


RACE KIT:

The race kit will contain the following: singlet, bib number, and wrist tags for 500m dash participants and will be available upon registration. Online registrants’ kits will be delivered within seven (7) working days after registration.

FINISHER'S KIT:

THE REWARDS OF WINNING THE 1st EVER RUN UNITED PHILIPPINE MARATHON

Alongside the prestige that comes with one of the country’s premier races, the 2012 Run United Philippine Marathon offers the chance to win great prizes.

PRIZES:

*For the 1st Run United Philippine Marathon, two sets of winners will be awarded for the 42k category: Foreigner and Filipino participants.

What is the eligibility to win for the 2012 Run United Philippine Marathon?

500m dash, 5K, 10K, 21K - will be an Open Category, therefore Filipino and foreign participants are entitled to win.
While the 42k has 2 winners set - Top 3 Filipino and Top 3 Non-Filipino
Trophies, medals and sponsors gift packs will be given to all winners
What are the rules on NATIONALITY?

You are a Filipino if:

You were born in the Philippines (with valid birth certificate from NSO)
Both parents are Filipino
You are a foreigner who has adopted Filipino citizenship via naturalization
*Any participant/ winner who does not qualify under any of the above-mentioned qualification are considered a NON-FILIPINO Runner.

*A NON-FILIPINO RUNNER who is competing for the top 3 spot for any of the race categories is required to present their passport upon registration for verification otherwise his/ her winnings will be forfeited and the next in line runner will be considered as the winner. For FILIPINO RUNNER, a valid ID (SSS, Driver’s License, or NSO Birth Certificate) must be presented upon registration.

FINISHER’S MEDAL:

Here is the Run United Philippine Marathon 21K and 42K Finisher’s Medal:

The completed UNITED medal from the 2012 Run United Trilogy series (21-21-21/32) fits into the RUPM finisher’s medal. Having have completed all these medals shows a true testament of your commitment to progress your active lifestyle through UNILAB Active Health’s 2012 Run United Series.

REMINDERS:

• Registration is on a first come, first serve basis, and may end earlier than the announced deadline. Race kits may run out before October 26, 2012.
• A Valid ID must be presented upon registration. For group registration, a photocopy of any valid ID & picture must be presented by the representative.
• Singlet size availability will be on a first come first serve basis.
• A timing device will be used by all participants during the race.

RACE RESULTS:

• Race results will be available within three (3) days after the race at the following websites: www.runrio.com and www.unilabactivehealth.com
• Timing and Race Results: feedback@runrio.com

CONTACT DETAILS:

For In-Store Registration Inquiries:
GLOBE: 0927-347-7700
SMART: 0929-717-8164
LANDLINE: (632) 887-6194

(Information courtesy of Unilab Active Health Website)