MANILA, Philippines — Philippine tennis has reached a defining moment.

At just 21 years old, Alex Eala has achieved what no Filipino has ever accomplished—winning a WTA Tour-level singles title and officially breaking into the WTA Top 20, cementing her place among the world’s elite women’s tennis players. Her remarkable rise has sparked celebrations across the country, with Filipinos hailing the birth of a new sporting superstar.

Eala’s historic breakthrough came at the Mubadala Citi DC Open (Washington Open), where she staged a stunning comeback to defeat top seed and World No. 3 Jessica Pegula, 4-6, 6-4, 6-0, in a rain-delayed final. The victory earned her her first WTA Tour singles championship and propelled her to a career-high World No. 20, the highest ranking ever achieved by a Filipino tennis player.

A Historic Victory for Philippine Tennis

Winning a WTA title is a milestone few players ever reach. For the Philippines, it represents a watershed moment in a sport long dominated by traditional tennis powerhouses.

Eala didn’t simply win a tournament—she conquered one of the toughest draws of the season.

On her way to the title, she defeated an extraordinary lineup of world-class opponents, including reigning Olympic champion Qinwen Zheng, defending Washington champion Leylah Fernandez, four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, former Wimbledon champion Elina Svitolina, and finally top seed Jessica Pegula in the championship match.

The run showcased her maturity, resilience, and fearless style of play, qualities that have become trademarks of her meteoric rise.

From Rising Star to Global Contender

Only weeks earlier, Eala had already captured international attention with her breakthrough performance at Wimbledon, becoming the first Filipina to reach the Round of 16 in the prestigious Grand Slam tournament.

Her success in Washington proved that Wimbledon was no fluke.

Instead, it confirmed that the young Filipina has officially arrived as one of the brightest talents in women’s tennis.

With the Washington title adding 500 valuable ranking points, Eala vaulted into the WTA Top 20, joining an exclusive group of the world’s best players and becoming a legitimate contender in the biggest tournaments on the professional circuit.

A Nation United Behind Its New Champion

Across social media, millions of Filipinos celebrated Eala’s achievement, with messages of congratulations pouring in from fans, athletes, public officials, and celebrities.

For many, her victory represents far more than another sporting accomplishment.

It symbolizes the emergence of a new generation of Filipino athletes capable of competing—and winning—on the biggest stages in the world.

In a nation where icons like Manny Pacquiao, Hidilyn Diaz, Carlos Yulo, and EJ Obiena have inspired generations, Alex Eala is now writing her own chapter in Philippine sports history.

Her success is also expected to inspire greater interest in tennis among young Filipinos, encouraging future athletes to dream beyond traditional sporting boundaries.

The Making of a Superstar

What makes Eala’s rise even more remarkable is the consistency she has shown against the world’s top players.

Her Washington triumph marked yet another victory over elite competition this season, demonstrating that she belongs among tennis’ biggest names.

Observers around the world have praised not only her aggressive baseline game and mental toughness but also her humility, professionalism, and composure under pressure. Those qualities have quickly made her one of the sport’s most exciting young personalities.

The Journey Is Just Beginning

At 21, Eala’s career is only beginning.

With the North American hard-court swing continuing and the US Open fast approaching, expectations are understandably high. Yet her recent performances suggest that this historic breakthrough may be only the first of many milestones.

For the Philippines, however, one thing is already certain.

Alex Eala has forever changed the country’s place in world tennis.

She is no longer simply a promising young athlete.

She is a WTA champion, a Top 20 player, and the newest Filipino sports superstar carrying the nation’s flag onto the global stage.

As she continues her journey against the world’s best, millions of Filipinos will be cheering every serve, every rally, and every victory.

Because today, the world isn’t just watching Alex Eala.

The world is watching the rise of Philippine tennis.

The post Alex Eala Makes History: Washington Open Champion Cracks WTA Top 20, Giving the Philippines Its Newest Global Tennis Superstar appeared first on Health and Fitness.

Building on the growth of its healthcare financing initiatives, SB Finance has introduced exclusive offers for doctors while continuing to expand patient financing programs that help make medical care more accessible and affordable for Filipinos. Called Doctor’s Loan, the initiative supports healthcare institutions, medical practitioners, and patients through an integrated financing ecosystem. 

Under the program, qualified medical professionals may access multi-purpose personal loans of up to PhP 3 million, enjoy repayment terms of up to 36 months, and take advantage of special interest rates (subject to credit evaluation and approval). 

“We have a whole suite of specialized offers that doctors and other medical professionals can maximize to support their practice or even for personal purposes,” said SB Finance Business Development Head Patrick Felizardo. “The rates are competitive, and the process is made more convenient.” 

Designed to accommodate the demanding schedules of healthcare professionals, the program features a streamlined application process requiring only basic documentary requirements, including a valid government-issued ID, accomplished application form, and supporting financial documents, subject to credit assessment. As an added benefit, Gold Circle and Wealth clients of Security Bank also enjoy better Doctor’s Loan rates, going as low as 0.8% per month. 

“Healthcare is one of the most important sectors in the country, and financing plays a critical role in supporting both providers and patients. Our goal is to create solutions that empower doctors, while also helping patients gain access to the care they need,” SB Finance Head of Personal Loan and OR/CR for Cash Sales and Distribution Ron Romo shared. 

Beyond financing, qualified doctors may also enjoy a suite of exclusive benefits from both SB Finance and Security Bank. Eligible clients may qualify for Security Bank’s Gold Circle and Wealth Welcome Offers, which provide cash rewards of up to PhP 90,000 for opening and maintaining qualified deposit accounts. Doctors may also participate in the Wealth Referrer Rewards Program, earning up to PhP 10,000 for every successful referral with no cap on rewards (subject to applicable promo terms and conditions). 

As an added perk, the program also includes referral opportunities that enable healthcare partners to connect eligible patients and colleagues with relevant financing solutions 

Together, these offers provide doctors with access to financing, wealth-building opportunities, banking privileges, and practice-support solutions that help strengthen both their personal finances and professional growth. 

Available for a limited time, this suite of offers reflects the shared commitment of SB Finance and Security Bank to provide value beyond traditional lending by delivering a more holistic financial ecosystem for healthcare professionals. 

The Doctor’s Loan Program complements SB Finance’s Patient Access Program, which is now available across 66 partner hospitals nationwide. Through the program, patients may access financing, ranging from PhP 30,000 to PhP 3 million for hospitalization, medical procedures, and treatment-related expenses, payable in installments of 12 to 36 months. 

By connecting doctors, hospitals, and patients through a single financing ecosystem, SB Finance aims to help healthcare institutions improve patient access while creating new opportunities for healthcare professionals and industry partners. 

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About SB Finance

SB Finance, Inc. is a Security Bank and Krungsri partnership regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission and supervised by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Classified as a non-bank financial institution (NBFI), it aims to enrich lives as it envisions to be the Philippines’ preferred financial service provider.

The post SB Finance Strengthens Healthcare Financing with Exclusive Offers for Doctors appeared first on Health and Fitness.

Good thing, leading pharmaceutical company, MSD, through its Guard Against HPV initiative, mounted the “Because She Can”: Preventive roundtable campaign, to reinforce the message that taking charge of one’s health means empowerment, self-respect, and self-prioritization.

Lending their celebrity and star power, MJ Lastimosa and Joy Barcoma  joined  the discussion along with content creator and advocate Ayn Bernos, and OB-GYN and cervical cancer prevention advocate Ada Angela Cabrera, MD, to help simplify conversations around HPV, cervical cancer prevention, women’s preventive healthcare.

As beauty queens who represented the Philippines in the global stage – Lastimosa for Miss Universe and Barcoma for Miss Earth – – the two agreed that their journey has helped them a lot in preventive health and self-prioritization given their respective busy schedules. And today, as the voice of Filipina women, they agreed to use their platforms to encourage more women for self-love and respect. 

“Because women, especially our mommies and other mother figures, wouldn’t be able to take care of others if they do not take care of themselves and be healthy,” Barcoma said. 

HPV and cervical cancer

Among the many health concerns discussed were HPV and cervical cancer. HPV or Human Papillomavirus is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) globally, among sexually active individuals both men and women. 

HPV is also highly common, with studies showing that 80% to 90% of sexually active individuals may acquire HPV infection at least once in their lifetime. While many HPV infections clear on their own, cervical and other HPV-related diseases when left persistent infection may lead unaddressed. 

HPV encompasses a group of over 200 related viruses. While many types are harmless and asymptomatic, some high-risk strains can cause cervical cancer, while others lead to non-cancerous growths like warts. As per the December 2022 WHO Position on HPV vaccines, the World Health Organization recommends the following vaccination schedule:A one or two-dose schedule for girls aged 9-1 4;A one or two-dose schedule for girls and women aged 15-20; and Two doses with a 6-month interval for women older than 21. 

Cervical cancer remains one the most common cancers affecting women, despite being preventable. Persistent high-risk HPV infection causes nearly all cervical cancer cases, yet awareness around HPV, vaccination, and regular screening remains limited for many women.

Stigma and misinformation

Despite advances in cancer prevention and awareness, many women continue to delay preventive healthcare due to stigma, misinformation, busy schedules, or concerns around accessibility and affordability. 

Dr. Cabrera, who is YourOBTita herself  on Tiktok, said that conversations around women’s reproductive health also remain uncomfortable or unfamiliar for many. This makes it more difficult for women to seek information, ask questions, or consult healthcare professionals early.

With this, Dr. Cabrera highlights the importance of normalizing conversations around women’s health, preventive care, and everyday wellness by finding the right health practitioners and women support groups. 

“Yes going to the OB should be a normal thing like going to the salon or spa. We should be able to tell our patners or friends, ‘Hey, I’m going for a papsmear, come with me!,’” Barcoma quipped. 

Preventive healthcare starts with paying attention to one’s health

Preventive healthcare goes beyond medical appointments alone according to Dr. Cabrera. It also involves becoming more intentional about lifestyle habits, overall wellness, and paying closer attention to one’s body and health. Prioritizing preventive care may include regular screening, vaccination, healthier lifestyle choices, stress management, adequate rest, and seeking medical guidance early instead of waiting for symptoms to worsen.

Creating more open, relatable, and judgment-free conversations around women’s health can help encourage more women to become proactive instead of fearful when it comes to healthcare. Community support, safe spaces, and accessible information also play an important role in helping women feel more empowered to prioritize themselves and make informed health decisions earlier.

Women are encouraged to learn more about cervical cancer prevention, HPV, screening, and preventive healthcare through Guard Against HPV. To learn more, visit https://guardagainsthpv.ph/. 

Women are also encouraged to visit the barangay or community health center or enrol themselves to Philhealth Yakap centers nearest them for consultation. “At Philihealth Yakap they should be able to explore the laboratory tests and other services which the government agency is giving for free,” Cabrera said. 

The celebrity guests all agreed that prevention can begin with small but meaningful actions, learning more about HPV, scheduling regular check-ups, seeking credible information, understanding available screening options, and becoming more proactive about one’s overall health and wellbeing. 

On the sidelight, we asked Lastimosa her thoughts about the event, she said that spreading the word about women’s health would definitely become part of her advocacy. 

“Senior na rin ako (referring to her older age than Barcoma) at ngayon ko rin lang nalalaman ang mga ganitong health concerns ng kababaihan,” she said laughing. 

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This message took center stage during the Advocacy Hour: Usapang Puso sa Puso, held as part of the 56th Philippine Heart Association–Philippine College of Cardiology (PHA-PCC) Annual Convention and Scientific Meeting at the Edsa Shangri-La Manila.

Carrying the theme “Mental Health & The Heart,” the session gathered cardiologists, psychiatrists, mental health advocates, faith leaders, media personalities, and members of the public to discuss how stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, and emotional overload significantly impact cardiovascular health.

The event underscored growing medical evidence showing that chronic emotional stress can elevate cortisol and adrenaline levels, increase inflammation, damage arteries, and contribute to hypertension and long-term heart disease.

Leading the discussion was PHA Director III and Advocacy Hour Committee Chair Dr. Iris M. Garcia, joined by Philippine Psychiatric Association President Dr. Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal, actress and mental health advocate Hershey Neri, and spiritual leader Ed Lapiz.

Dr. Iris M. Garcia | Photo by: George Buid

“Mental health is part of our overall health. It affects how we think, feel, act, relate with others, and make decisions every day,” said Dr. Garcia.

She emphasized that emotional struggles do not only affect the mind, but also the body and the heart. “When a person goes through depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, lack of sleep, or emotional overload, not only the mind and emotions are affected. The body is affected too, including the heart,” Garcia explained.

Dr. Garcia also stressed the importance of creating compassionate and judgment-free spaces where people can openly discuss emotional struggles and seek professional support.

“As we continue promoting heart health, may we also create safe spaces where mental health can be discussed with compassion and without judgment. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is a step toward healing,” she added.

Dr. Joan Mae Perez-Rifareal | Photo by: George Buid

Meanwhile, Dr. Perez-Rifareal highlighted the deep connection between emotional and physical well-being, emphasizing that mental health should no longer be treated separately from overall healthcare.

“Physical and mental health are deeply interconnected. We cannot separate one from the other,” she said.

She also reminded the public that while stress is a natural part of life, unmanaged and chronic stress may lead to anxiety, burnout, depression, unhealthy coping behaviors, and increased health risks.

“Do not be afraid of the word stress. It is part of life,” Perez-Rifareal noted.

The psychiatrist encouraged individuals to protect their mental well-being through proper sleep, healthy nutrition, exercise, hobbies, emotional outlets, and strong support systems.

Hershey Neri | Photo by: George Buid

Adding a deeply personal perspective to the conversation, Hershey Neri shared her own experience with trauma and healing, revealing how therapy transformed her life after surviving physical trauma at the age of 19.

“The therapy really changed my life,” Neri shared.

She encouraged the public to seek professional help without shame and reminded audiences that healing is often uncomfortable but necessary.

“Healing or going to therapy is like peeling off a band-aid. It hurts because you are healing,” she said.

Neri also highlighted the importance of compassion and emotional support, particularly for people silently struggling with mental health challenges.

“Sometimes people do not need advice right away. Sometimes they just want someone to ask, ‘How can I help?’” she added.

The actress also spoke about the value of focusing on meaningful relationships and supportive communities amid online negativity and criticism.

“I have more than a thousand bashers, but I have five best friends and my parents. I have seven people who love and support me and they are my safe place,” Neri said.

She further explained how comedy and humor became part of her healing journey.

“Because laughter is medicine, I want to share my life, a beautiful life of laughter, to others,” she concluded.

Pastor Ed Lapiz | Photo by: George Buid

For his part, Pastor Ed Lapiz warned against the growing emotional burden caused by social media pressure, negativity, and information overload.

“There is a difference between being informed and being invaded by information,” Lapiz said.

Quoting the biblical verse “Let not your heart be troubled,” he urged audiences to guard their peace while remaining compassionate toward others.

“Guard the heart, but do not harden it,” he emphasized.

Throughout the discussion, panelists reinforced the importance of “whole-person heart care,” explaining that effective cardiovascular prevention and recovery should extend beyond medicines, exercise, and diet to include emotional wellness, rest, stress management, healthy relationships, and professional mental health support.

Experts also reminded the public not to wait until emotional struggles become overwhelming before seeking help, emphasizing that protecting the mind is equally important in protecting the heart.

Healthcare leaders at the event noted that addressing the psychological roots of patient well-being—including depression, anxiety, and burnout—can significantly improve long-term cardiovascular outcomes and help reduce the global burden of heart disease.

As awareness around mental health continues to grow, the PHA-PCC Advocacy Hour served as a powerful reminder that emotional resilience, compassion, and mental wellness are no longer optional discussions in healthcare, but essential components of lasting heart health.

The post Protect the Mind, Protect the Heart: Experts Push for Mental Health Integration in Cardiac Care appeared first on Health and Fitness.

The program allows patients to access financing for hospital bills, procedures, and treatment-related expenses, offering loan amounts ranging from PhP 30,000 up to PhP 3 million, payable in installments of 12 to 36 months with interest rates starting at 1.6%.  

By providing installment-based payment options, the facility enables patients to proceed with treatment without the need for full upfront payment, an ongoing challenge for many Filipino households facing unplanned medical expenses. 

The Patient Access Program also supports planned and elective medical procedures, allowing patients to arrange financing even before hospitalization or treatment. This includes maternity packages, cancer treatment, open heart surgery, kidney transplant, chemotherapy, and other high-value procedures. Through affordable monthly amortization, patients can move forward with care while reducing the immediate financial burden on themselves and their families. 

Under the program’s structure, loan proceeds are directly credited to the partner hospital’s Security Bank account, ensuring that funds are used specifically for medical needs. 

Patients benefit from a streamlined application process, which includes application submission, document verification, and scheduled loan signing prior to disbursement. Repayment is facilitated through multiple channels, including auto-debit arrangements, Security Bank branches, partner payment centers, and online platforms, with no post-dated checks required. 

“Healthcare financing is no longer just a financial product. It is becoming part of how access to care is delivered,” said SB Finance Head of Personal Loan Sales and Distribution Ron Romo. “When patients delay treatment due to cost, long-term health outcomes often become more complex and more expensive. SB Finance’s Patient Access Program helps patients make timely decisions by providing clarity in payment and supporting both patients and healthcare providers.” 

Designed to be accessible to a broad range of borrowers, including patients, as well as their family members, friends, or sponsors, eligible applicants must be Filipino citizens aged 21 to 65, with minimum income requirements varying by employment type.    

Borrowers may also apply for multiple Patient Access Program loans for a single patient, subject to credit evaluation and approval. This gives families more flexibility in managing larger or ongoing medical expense, especially when treatment costs exceed the limit of a single loan. 

This initiative reflects SB Finance’s broader transition toward embedded healthcare financing, integrating financial support directly into the healthcare journey. By doing so, SB Finance aims to balance affordability with timely access, critical at a time when out-of-pocket medical spending continues to burden Filipino households. 

For the list of accredited hospitals, visit www.sbfinance.com.ph/patient-loan/. 

About SB Finance 

SB Finance, Inc. is a Security Bank and Krungsri partnership regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission and supervised by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Classified as a non-bank financial institution (NBFI), it aims to enrich lives as it envisions to be the Philippines’ preferred financial service provider. 

The post SB Finance expands to financing healthcare needs, partners with 66 hospitals appeared first on Health and Fitness.

The milestone event marks the final leg of the ZamBaSulTa expansion—completing the organization’s presence across the region and extending access to cardiovascular care to communities across Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

PHA President Dr. Walid Amil said: “Making heart care accessible is one of our core priorities. While we have made significant progress over the years, there are still communities that remain underserved, especially those without specialists.”

Meanwhile, Jolo Mayor Edsir Tan gives his full support for this “very important activity where people gather for something that truly matters; something that can help save lives.”

Attendees, mostly nursing students from Sulu, gather at the gymnasium to attend the PHA event, despite the scorching heat of April 25

In a message read by Coun. Tan, the mayor, said: “Many of us think that saving lives is only for doctors or nurses. But the truth ís, any one of us can help; as long as we know what to do. That’s why this CPR training is so important. It’s simple, but it can make a real difference in an emergency.”

Mass Hands-Only CPR training 

The hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training – – a first in Sulu – – was participated by community members, including barangay health workers, police officers, firefighters, nurses, students, the Sulu Red Cross team, and other frontliners.

Supnet explained that cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping effectively, cutting off blood supply to vital organs such as the brain. She stressed that brain cells begin to suffer irreversible damage within four to six minutes without oxygen. 

She also noted that for heart attack cases, life-saving procedures like angioplasty are ideally performed within 60 minutes, although such interventions may not always be immediately available in remote areas. In these situations, early response through CPR becomes critical. 

“Time is muscle, muscle is time,” she emphasized, noting that survival chances drop by about 10 percent for every minute without CPR. Immediate and proper intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent cardiac death. 

Programs and health education initiatives 

Ulanghutan discussed hypertension, noting that approximately 90 percent of cases fall under essential hypertension, where no single cause is identified. Instead, factors such as diet, lifestyle, age, and genetics contribute to its development. 

She added that the remaining 10 percent are classified as secondary hypertension, which stems from underlying conditions like kidney disease, hormonal imbalances, or medication effects, often requiring further diagnostic testing. 

Hypertension and diabetes remain among the most common conditions observed in patients in the region, underscoring the need for continuous education and preventive care. 

Lukman also provided insights on angina, describing it as chest discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart—often triggered by physical exertion or stress and relieved by rest. She emphasized that such symptoms should not be ignored, as they may signal underlying coronary artery disease. 

“Dati kayang umakyat ng hagdan nang hindi hinihingal, pero ngayon pagod na agad—kapag may ganitong pagbabago, huwag nang ipagwalang-bahala. Magpatingin agad upang maiwasan ang mas malalang kondisyon,” she said. 

Meanwhile, Ismael highlighted the “PHA PUSO MUNA” advocacy (Pagkain na malusog, Huwag manigarilyo, Aktibong pamumuhay, Presyon ay kontrolin, Uminom ng maintenance,Sugar ay kontrolin, Obesity ay iwasan, Matulog nangn kumpleto, Umiwas sa stress, No to alcohol, and Ayawan ang cholesterol).  

She noted that both insufficient sleep (less than seven hours) and excessive sleep (more than nine hours) may increase cardiovascular risks. She also clarified that no level of alcohol consumption can be considered completely safe for heart health, encouraging total avoidance instead. 

Through the Jolo, Sulu sub-chapter, the PHA continues to build a stronger, more inclusive healthcare network—bringing life-saving knowledge, preventive care, and hope closer to communities that need it most.

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The launching, followed by the oathtaking of the PHA Sulu officers, marks the final leg of the ZamBaSulTa expansion—completing the organization’s presence across the region and extending access to cardiovascular care to communities across Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. 

This initiative reflects the PHA’s long-term vision of achieving “One Cardiologist for Every City.” Access to specialized cardiac care remains a major challenge in the region. While a small number of cardiologists serve the broader population, most are concentrated in Zamboanga City, leaving island provinces like Sulu with limited direct access to expert care.

The newly appointed sub-chapter officer’s health professionals who willingly embraced the call were composed of internal medicine physicians, general practitioners, an OB-gynecologist, and an anesthesiologist. They will now lead cardiovascular initiatives in the province. In the absence of cardiologists, internists are expected to take on a critical role in managing and guiding heart-related care.

Inducted were Drs. Nhamier Jikiri, Ahkramien Hassan, Janice de Grace Tulawie, Nelpra Iribani, and Kaneez Fatima Amilasan from Sulu IPHO; Armalyn Hajijul-Ladjahiran and Kenerham Abdurahman from Maimbung District Hospital; and Rofaida Aming, Meccar Elino, Fatima Dhiena Julhan, and Fatima Yuzra Sampang from Sulu Sanitarium. They were joined by general practitioners Drs. Muhammad Matingka and Ameer Eldin Ahmad, OB-gynecologist Dr. Nehama Nemertina Tan, and anesthesiologist Dr. Reynaldo Pescadera.

Leading the ceremony were PHA National President Dr. Walid Amil—the association’s first Mindanaoan leader—and Dr. Amelyn Ulanghutan, President of the ZamBaSulTa Chapter, alongside PHA ZamBaSulTa Past President Dr. Kristine Bantala Supnet, Vice President Dr. Sherryl Lukman, member Dr. Nurhaya Ismael, and PHA Board of Directors Finance Officer Mr. Romy Cruz. 

Dr. Amil emphasized that the expansion addresses long-standing gaps in healthcare accessibility, particularly in areas without resident cardiologists.

“Making heart care accessible is one of our core priorities. While we have made significant progress over the years, there are still communities that remain underserved, especially those without specialists,” he said.

The provincial government of Sulu led by Gov. Abdusakur “Totoh” Tan was elated for this development in the medical and healthcare landscape of the province. In a meeting prior to this momentous event, he expressed whole support and gratitude to the PHA for this new partnership. 

Nationwide, the Philippines has around 2,546 cardiologists serving an estimated 114 million people—equivalent to roughly one specialist for every 44,800 Filipinos. Although Metro Manila has a higher concentration, many provinces continue to face shortages.

The program ended with a large-scale hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training for community members, including barangay health workers, police officers, firefighters, nurses, students, the Sulu Red Cross team and other frontliners.

The post PHA, ZamBaSulTa launch Sulu Subchapter to make heart care accessible in Jolo appeared first on Health and Fitness.

With the theme “Educate, Innovate, Empower,” the event underscored a clear and pressing reality: HF is no longer a distant clinical diagnosis confined to textbooks or end-stage care.

Council on HF Chair and National HF Network Director Dr. Erlyn Demerre said “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.”

“Education is the strongest pillar—when patients, healthcare professionals, and communities are informed, care improves and stigma fades,” she stressed.

HF affects an estimated 64 million people worldwide, progressing quietly over years rather than presenting as an acute outbreak.

In the Philippines, data from the Philippine National Heart Failure Registry place the burden at around 10.4 percent of the population, reflecting a significant and continuing national challenge.

Despite this, control of key risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and dyslipidemia remain suboptimal. Hypertension control is only 38.6 percent, while smoking prevalence remains at approximately 31 percent, with rising rates of diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia further accelerating HF.

A key focus of the discussions was the importance of HF clinics, which provide structured, protocol-driven outpatient care beyond hospitalization. These clinics serve as continuity hubs where patients receive regular monitoring, medication optimization, education, and early intervention to prevent deterioration and rehospitalization.

Chef Heny Sison and her HF journey

In a conversation led by HF Specialist Dr. Kay Evangelista Galindez during the event, celebrity baker and Chef Heny Sison  shared her HF journey: while brisk walking, she experienced shortness of breath which she initially dismissed as part of aging. 

During a stress test on her yearly birthday checkup, a simple question changed everything: “Ma’am, mayroon ba kayong thickened heart muscle?”

Photo by: George Buid

She didn’t know. Days later, the answer came. A diagnosis: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)—a condition closely linked to heart failure (HF) when left unmanaged. It is marked by an abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, which can obstruct blood flow and make it harder for the heart to pump efficiently. It may present as shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, or even fainting—symptoms easily overlooked until they begin to disrupt daily life.

And just like that, certainty turned into confusion. “Parang bumagyo ‘yung utak ko,” she recalled. “What is this?”

For someone who had never been still, and seriously ill, the idea of slowing down felt more terrifying than the diagnosis itself. And for someone as accomplished as Chef Heny, the first thought was not about treatment. It was about loss.

“Is this the end of my career? Kailangan ko na bang huminto

Her journey with HCM shows that heart failure and cardiomyopathy care truly “takes a village.” Her cardiologists, heart failure specialists, and multidisciplinary team including nurses, pharmacists, diagnostic specialists, and rehab experts — support and work together to manage her condition and restore her quality of life.

Photo by: George Buid

For now, the medication—what Chef Heny calls a “wonder drug”—for HCM is available in Singapore, where it is more affordable, and in the United States, where it comes at a higher cost. 

While the treatment is expensive, she said, it spared her from more invasive and far costlier surgery. But beyond the prescription, the real shift was in her pace—learning to slow down and live more deliberately.

“I used to do everything hanggang mapagod ako,” she admitted. “Now, I trust my team.”

HF is more than stress or “pagod lang”

HF develops gradually as the heart loses its ability to pump blood efficiently. Because of this slow progression, early symptoms are often dismissed.

These include persistent shortness of breath, easy fatigability even with minimal exertion, swelling of the legs, ankles, or abdomen, unexplained rapid weight gain due to fluid retention, persistent cough or wheezing, difficulty lying flat during sleep, and episodes of rapid or irregular heartbeat.

HF was also described as a complex, multisystem condition that frequently coexists with diabetes, kidney disease, and other chronic illnesses, making long-term management more challenging and resource-intensive.

Many patients initially attribute these to stress or “pagod lang,” leading to delayed consultation and diagnosis.

PHA HF Caravan

Beyond hospital-based initiatives, PHA has also strengthened grassroots awareness through its ongoing Heart Failure Caravan, which has already reached Iloilo, Cagayan De Oro, Zamboanga, Clark, Baguio, and Tacloban, with upcoming stops planned in Bicol, Cebu, and other regions. The initiative aims to bring education, screening, and awareness directly to communities across the country.

Photo by: George Buid

HF was also described as a “silent pandemic”—not caused by infection, but driven by lifestyle-related risks that accumulate over decades. Unlike sudden outbreaks, its progression is slow, but its impact is equally devastating if left unmanaged.

Continuity of care for HF patients are important. This is through cardiac rehabilitation programs, which combine supervised exercise, education, and lifestyle modification to improve functional capacity and quality of life.

PHA President Dr. Walid Amil said: “The PHA is committed to improving heart failure outcomes in the Philippines by expanding clinics, increasing access to advanced treatments like heart transplantation, and building sustainable rehabilitation programs to bring quality cardiovascular care closer to every Filipino.”

The post PHA: Heart Failure is a growing national health threat  appeared first on Health and Fitness.

A normal resting pulse typically ranges from 60 to less than 100 beats per minute. 

In celebration of Global Pulse Day every March 1, the Philippine Heart Association (PHA) and the Philippine Heart Rhythm Society (PHRS) joined the international campaign to raise awareness on cardiac arrhythmias. The global campaign is led by the European Heart Rhythm Association together with its sister societies: the Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society, Heart Rhythm Society, and Latin American Heart Rhythm Society.

In the Philippines, the campaign has expanded into a month-long effort, with the PHRS and PHA leading nationwide awareness drives.

In the March 27, 2026, episode of Usapang Puso sa Puso,streamed on PHA Facebook, PHA and PHRS Treasurer Dr. Luigi Pierre Segundo, a cardiologist-electrophysiologist, stressed that a simple habit—checking one’s pulse—is apowerful first step in detecting potentially life-threatening heart rhythm disorders. “Tinatawag din po kami na electrician ng puso,” Segundo said, adding “by the way, hindi lang one day observance —ginawa natin itong buong buwan para mas ma-emphasize ang kahalagahan ng pulse awareness. Hospitals across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao have conducted educational activities to teach Filipinos how to check their pulse and recognize early warning signs of arrhythmia.”

Heart irregularity disturbances unlike heart attacks, often go unnoticed until complications arise. One in three people worldwide may develop cardiac arrhythmia in their lifetime. 

PHA Director III and Advocacy Chair Dr. Iris Garcia, who hosted the podcast added:every heartbeat tells a story. Listen to it, understand it, and don’t ignore it. Whether it’s regular or irregular, being aware is the first step to prevention.”

“Minsan sinasabi nitong pagod tayo, excited o kinakabahan. And sometimes, it can quietly tell us that something may not be right—even before we start to feel any symptoms.Learning to listen to your heart—literally—can be very important.”

Common but overlooked condition

Arrhythmia remains less understood despite its prevalence. According to Segundo, it is not a single disease but an umbrella term for various conditions affecting the heart’s rhythm.

“Maaaring pinanganak ka na may arrhythmia, o kaya naman komplikasyon ito ng ibang sakit sa puso,” he explained. “Ang problema, ang alam ng karamihan—heart attack lang. Hindi nila alam na may ibang kondisyon na pwedeng tahimik lang pero delikado.” One of the most common forms is atrial fibrillation, an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that can go unnoticed for years. “Compatible with life siya,” Segundo said. “Ibig sabihin, pwedeng nabubuhay ang pasyente nang hindi alam na may arrhythmia siya.”

Despite appearing harmless, the condition can lead to serious complications if left undetected. Blood clots may form in the heart and travel to vital organs. “Kapag nagkaroon ng clot, pwede itong magdulot ng stroke o pulmonary embolism,” he warned. “Kung ma-diagnose natin nang maaga, pwede nating maiwasan ang heart failure at stroke.”

The radial pulse: most accurate point to measure your pulse rate

Make pulse checking a practical way to detect irregularities early: locate the radial pulse at the wrist, just below the base of the thumb, using the index and middle fingers. Count the beats for one full minute to determine both rate and rhythm.

Segundo said a normal resting pulse typically ranges from 60 to less than 100 beats per minute, though variations exist. “May mgatao, lalo na atleta, na mas mabagal ang pulso dahil mas efficient ang puso nila. Parang makina—kapag mas conditioned, mas kaunting effort ang kailangan.”

However, he stressed that irregular rhythm—not just speed—is a key warning sign. “Bukod sa bilang, dapat regular ang pintig. Kapag hindi, maaaring kailangan nang magpatingin.”

Smart wearables and gadgets

With the rise of smartwatches and digital health devices, more people are tracking their heart rate daily. While these tools can be useful, Segundo clarified their limitations. “Hindi pa sila considered na medical devices pero malaking tulong sila sa screening.”

Accuracy depends on proper use—correct fit, consistent wear, and sufficient data. “Mas maraming datos, mas nagigingreliable, halimbawa madalas mong suotin at dapat sakto ang sukat,” he noted. Still, any abnormal reading should prompt consultation with a healthcare professional.

Palpitations, described as a pounding, fluttering, or “skipped” heartbeat, may occur during stress or physical activity. “Normal lang ‘yan kung may trigger, tulad ng kaba o pagod,” Segundo said. “Pero kung nangyayari ito kahit walang dahilan, magandang magpacheck-up.”

Symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort may indicate a more serious issue. Even physically fit individuals are not exempt.

“Hindi dahil atleta ka, automatic na okay ka,” he cautioned. “Kung sasali sa sports, lalo na competitive, mahalagang magpa-check-up muna.”

Beyond awareness campaigns and technology, the message remains grounded in simplicity: a few seconds spent checking your pulse can lead to early detection, timely treatment, and potentially life-saving outcomes.“Hindi lahat ng irregular na pintig delikado,” Segundo said. “Pero kung hindi mo ipapacheck, hindi mo rin malalaman.”

Garcia added: “Studies show that one of the most common types of arrhythmia, called Atrial Fibrillation, continues to increase worldwide—from 33.5 million cases in 2010 to nearly 59 million in 2019 and counting.”

“Let’s make it a habit to “Know Your Pulse”. Encourage your family and friends to do the same. It’s easy, it’s simple, and it’s life-saving,” she added. 

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In the Philippines, many still dismiss warning signs like easy fatigue, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or swelling of the legs as “pagod lang,” “stress lang,” or “normal lang ‘yan.”

This misperception and “deadma” attitude becomes a dangerous habit—because when symptoms are ignored, heart disease progresses silently until it becomes severe.

This is why the Philippine Heart Association (PHA)  Heart Failure (HF)  Caravan continues to expand its reach: To bring awareness closer to communities, and to remind Filipinos that HF is real, common, but preventable.

After successfully holding the same activity, in Iloilo and Cagayan de Oro, the HF Caravan arrived  in Zamboanga City on Feb. 13, 2026, the day before Valentine’s Day.

PHA believes  that HF awareness must not remain centered in major cities alone. It should reach every region—especially underserved areas where access to cardiologists and HF services is limited.

Dr. Erlyn Demerre, chair, PHA Council on Heart Failure

HF is a pandemic affecting 64 million worldwide

It has been considered a global health crisis. Worldwide, PHA Council on Heart Failure Dr. Erlyn Demerre  said “it is estimated that 64 million people are living with heart failure, making it a true pandemic” in modern health. Wala pang COVID-19, pandemic na ang heart failure.”

Philippine Heart Association (PHA) National President Dr. Walid Amil said heart failure cases continue to rise, partly because Filipinos are living longer and more people are reaching ages where cardiovascular risk increases. However, he stressed that heart failure should not be dismissed as an “old person’s disease.”

Member of the Council on Heart Failure Dr. Rochelle Regina Cruz, one of the lecturers, added “Patients are getting younger due to unhealthy lifestyle  and bad genes. The risk factors for HF are hypertension, kidney problem, heart attack, poor sugar control and smoking.”

Meanwhile, another lecturer Dr. Michelle Pipo, also a member of the Council said that cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is increasingly recognized as a fundamental part of heart failure management.

“In one meta-analysis, there was a 25% reduction in readmissions for those with heart failure. One of the largest clinical trials involving patients with heart failure said that cardiac rehabilitation can cause 11% decrease in all-cause mortality,” she added.

Dr. Ryan Andal, a member of the Council and one of the speakers said “Heart failure management requires a coordinated team.”

He added that cardiologists lead diagnosis and treatment, nurses monitor and educate patients, and pharmacists ensure safe medication use, rehab specialists support diet and exercise, while social workers and mental health professionals address practical and emotional needs.

Dr. Glenn Rose Advincula mentioned about the heart failure clinics.

“Heart failure clinics function as specialized hubs for evaluating advanced therapies, particularly for patients at risk of transplantation. Patients are screened and assessed thoroughly before being listed under the Philippine Donor Organ Registry System (PHILOS), ensuring donor-recipient matching is safe and timely,” she said.

HF  does not mean the heart suddenly stops beating. It means the heart becomes too weak or too stiff to pump blood properly.

Over time, this leads to fluid buildup, reduced oxygen supply, and worsening symptoms that affect daily life.

Unfortunately, many  patients only seek medical help when symptoms become unbearable—yet early detection is one of the strongest ways to prevent complications.

Demerre said  HF is not treated by one specialist alone.

“Navigating through the heart failure path  —from diagnosis to stabilization is not just the patient’s but the physician’s and the entire family’s journey. It takes a village (collaborative care) to take care of a HF patient,” she said.

This “village” includes cardiologist, primary care physicians, internists, heart failure nurses, nutritionists and dietitians, pharmacists, physiotherapists, social workers, geriatricians, surgeons, pulmonologists, nephrologists, neurologists, and psychiatrists / psychologists.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of deaths globally, taking millions of lives every year. The Philippines continues to face the same burden, as heart-related conditions remain among the country’s top killers.

The growing cases of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and unhealthy diet patterns contribute heavily to the rise of heart failure. This makes awareness campaigns and preventive cardiology not just helpful—but necessary.

Heart failure is common. It is serious. But it is also manageable—and in many cases, preventable.

As the Heart Failure Caravan moves from Iloilo to Cagayan de Oro, and now to Zamboanga City, it carries a message that every Filipino needs to hear: Don’t be deadma. Don’t ignore symptoms. Protect your heart early.                                        

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