Surviving the Terrible Twos: Tips Every First-Time Mom Needs

Surviving the Terrible Twos: Tips Every First-Time Mom Needs

November 21, 2025

If you’re a first-time mom, the “Terrible Twos” might sound like an urban legend until your toddler throws their first full-blown tantrum in the middle of a mall. From sudden screaming fits to defiant “no’s” at every turn, this developmental phase can leave even the calmest parent frazzled. The good news? Pediatricians at Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reassure moms that these meltdowns are completely normal and manageable.

Understanding the Terrible Twos

According to Dr. Bernadette C. Benitez, a pediatrician at MakatiMed, the Terrible Twos typically affect children between 18 to 30 months old. At this stage, toddlers are learning to walk, climb, and speak in short sentences. More importantly, they’re beginning to recognize emotions, test limits, and assert independence.

“Your child’s nervous system is still developing,” explains Dr. Benitez. “This means they struggle to regulate their big emotions, so a meltdown is just their way of communicating frustration.”

Staying Calm During a Tantrum

The first step for any mom facing a toddler outburst? Breathe and stay calm. Dr. Benitez emphasizes that tantrums are not a reflection of bad parenting, they’re simply age-appropriate behavior.

If your toddler flips out in a public place, gently move them to a quieter spot. Getting down to their eye level, speaking softly but firmly, and offering physical comfort like holding their hand or letting them sit on your lap can help soothe them.

Handling Meltdowns at Home

Different situations call for different strategies:

After a “No”: Ignore the tantrum without giving in. This teaches your toddler that outbursts don’t get results and encourages self-regulation.

Refusing tasks: Instead of yes-or-no questions, give choices: “Do you want to brush your teeth first or put on pajamas first?” Guiding toddlers to make decisions helps them express their wants constructively.

Aggressive behavior: If your toddler hits or kicks, calmly separate them from the other child, comfort the hurt child, and explain that hurting others has consequences.

Repeated tantrums: Time-outs can help toddlers regain control of their emotions while reinforcing the boundaries.

Moms Can Have Tantrums Too

Dr. Benitez reminds moms that losing your temper occasionally is natural. What matters is how you recover. Apologizing to your child and modeling accountability teaches them emotional regulation as well.

Navigating the Terrible Twos is challenging, but it’s also a phase that passes. Stay patient, keep strategies consistent, and remember that these moments are milestones in your toddler’s growth. For Filipino moms juggling busy lives, having a few go-to coping strategies can make all the difference.

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Camella Celebrates Heart, Home, and Homeownership at the Christmas Homecoming Fair

Camella Celebrates Heart, Home, and Homeownership at the Christmas Homecoming Fair

November 14, 2025

The glow of parols will illuminate the islands as Camella hosts its Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 15 and 20, and Homecoming Fair, a celebration of the lifelong dream of homeownership, beginning November 16 to 23. The weeklong event invites families across the nation—and even those from overseas—to rediscover the joy of coming home to Camella communities.

The Homecoming fair serves both a continuation and a crescendo: following the success of Lifescapes Expo2025, where innovation, connection, and opportunity took center stage, it transforms these ideals into tangible experiences within thriving neighborhoods nationwide. Each Camella community opens its doors to prospective homebuyers, investors, and returning overseas workers, offering an opportunity to experience the living spaces where lifelong dreams and legacies are built. The fair also marks the second phase of Camella Christmas celebrations, extending the warmth of the season and welcoming Filipinos to where they belong: home.

Honoring the Filipino homecoming tradition

To make the occasion more meaningful, homebuyers will receive kitchen appliances depending on their reservation contract price to bring the spirit of the season into their new homes. These tokens represent the comfort, convenience, and care that Camella extends to Filipino households—a gesture to make living spaces glow with family gatherings and festive meals.

Recognizing the emotional connections of Overseas Filipinos to their homeland, Camella honors those who continue to invest in their roots. Homebuyers with verified information, such as a passport, seaman’s book, or an ongoing employment contract, will receive a gift certificate for an overnight stay for two (2) at the Brittany Hotel Global South, perfect for a restful return or a cheerful celebration.

The Homecoming Fair is a nationwide affirmation of what Camella has stood for nearly five decades: a home built on heart, anchored in family values, and sustained by the spirit of community.

Home for the holidays

Camella continues its Christmas tradition of welcoming families home through its annual Home for the Holidays campaign. This year shines the spotlight on homes for every hope and household, offering special savings for spot and flexible payment options and seasonal surprises that make homeownership within reach this holiday season.

Know more about Camella! Visit www.camella.com.ph and follow @CamellaOfficial. Terms and conditions apply.

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When Massages Can Do More Harm Than Good

When Massages Can Do More Harm Than Good

November 13, 2025

Massages Feel Great But Are They Always Safe?

There’s no denying the bliss of a good massage. It melts away tension, improves blood flow, and gives your mind and body a much-needed reset. But according to Makati Medical Center’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, not all massages are created equal. When done incorrectly or too aggressively, a massage can cause more harm than healing.

While massages are generally safe, overly vigorous pressure or poor technique can lead to bruising, nerve damage, or even severe complications like rhabdomyolysis, a rare but serious condition where muscle breakdown releases substances that can harm the kidneys and heart.

What MakatiMed Experts Say About Massage Safety

Dr. Ma. Elena Lourdes R. Tan, from MakatiMed’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, emphasizes that safety depends on the therapist’s skill and the client’s awareness.

“Problems can arise during the application of excessive pressure in the wrong spots and for prolonged periods. This could reduce circulation or affect nerves, resulting in temporary or permanent damage,” Dr. Tan explains.

She also reminds clients that massages are not advisable when you’re sick or have certain health conditions. “If you have a fracture, skin infection, open wound, or are treating rashes, it’s best to postpone your massage until you’re cleared by a doctor,” she advises. “Pregnant women and individuals with underlying health issues should also consult their physician first.”

When a Massage Poses a Risk to Others

Massage sessions are not just about the client’s health, therapists are also at risk of infection if safety precautions aren’t followed.

“If you have a contagious illness such as the flu, tuberculosis, or COVID-19, you could easily transmit it to your therapist through close contact,” warns Dr. Tan.

This highlights the importance of honesty and responsibility don’t book a massage when you’re unwell.

How to Choose the Right Spa or Wellness Center

Not all spas uphold the same standards. Dr. Tan stresses that it’s vital to choose a reputable establishment that prioritizes cleanliness, professionalism, and client comfort.

“Ideally, get a massage in a place with properly trained therapists who follow professional standards. Make sure the environment is clean and well-maintained at all times,” she advises.

Before the session, disclose any medical conditions and communicate your preferences. Tell your therapist how much pressure feels right, where you’d like to focus, and what areas to avoid. Speak up if you feel pain or discomfort—it’s your body, after all.

When to Seek Professional Help Instead

If your pain is due to sports-related strain, poor posture, or injury, Dr. Tan recommends consulting a physiatrist or physiotherapist instead of heading to the spa.

“A healthcare professional with training in human anatomy is better equipped to manage pain through manual therapy and exercise,” she explains.

While massages can complement medical treatment, they’re not a substitute for proper therapy or diagnosis. Persistent or recurring pain should always be checked by a doctor.

MakatiMed’s Gentle Reminder: Listen to Your Body

Massages are meant to soothe, not strain. By being informed and selective, you can enjoy their benefits safely. Remember, when in doubt, consult your healthcare provider before booking that spa appointment.

For more information, contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632 8888 8999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter for more health insights.

Massages are wonderful for relaxation but they’re not one-size-fits-all. Before your next spa session, do a quick health check and choose a trusted establishment. Because true wellness isn’t just about feeling good, it’s about being safe while doing it. 

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Diabesity in the Philippines: The Growing Health Crisis Filipinos Must Confront Now

Diabesity in the Philippines: The Growing Health Crisis Filipinos Must Confront Now

Why “Diabesity” Is the Silent Epidemic Threatening Filipino Health

The twin threats of diabetes and obesity known together as “diabesity” are rapidly becoming one of the Philippines’ most pressing public health challenges. According to recent data, about 7.5% of Filipino adults (4.7 million people) are living with diabetes, while two in every ten adults are pre-diabetic.

Equally alarming, 36.6% of Filipino adults were either overweight or obese as of 2019. This growing trend underscores how unhealthy eating habits, sedentary lifestyles, and stress have turned weight gain into a national concern and a major trigger for type 2 diabetes.

The Hidden Link Between Obesity and Diabetes

Obesity doesn’t just affect appearance, it affects how the body uses insulin. Excessive weight can lead to insulin resistance, a condition where the body stops responding properly to insulin, causing high blood sugar levels. Over time, this can lead to type 2 diabetes and other serious complications.

In the fast-paced, urbanized lifestyle of Filipinos where long work hours, traffic, and stress push people toward quick and sugary comfort foods, the risk of diabesity continues to rise. Even children are now showing signs of being overweight, paving the way for long-term health problems if not addressed early.

To make matters trickier, some Filipinos may appear healthy but still carry hidden body fat, a condition known as TOFI (thin outside, fat inside). This makes regular health checkups and preventive care all the more important.

Expert Insight: Tackling Diabesity from the Ground Up

According to Dr. Alex Teo, Director of Research Development and Scientific Affairs for Asia Pacific at Herbalife, the key to addressing diabesity lies in early action.

“By making small, mindful choices every day to achieve even modest weight loss, individuals can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce their diabetes risk,” he explained.

This means that before diabetes develops, Filipinos must first take control of their diet, activity levels, and lifestyle habits, the very roots of diabesity.

Eat Smart: Small Diet Tweaks, Big Health Wins

Filipinos love their rice, bread, and sweets but these high-glycemic foods can cause blood sugar to spike rapidly. Replacing them with whole grains, fiber-rich fruits, and vegetables helps stabilize sugar levels and prevent hunger pangs.

Even simple changes like cutting back on sugary drinks such as bubble tea can make a difference. Those sweet tapioca pearls may be delicious, but they also add calories and raise blood sugar.

Interestingly, local researchers are developing low-glycemic rice varieties, showing how science is working hand in hand with Filipino culture to make healthier eating possible without giving up national staples.

Supplement Support for Better Metabolic Health

Certain nutrients can help support weight management and blood sugar control:

• Protein increases satiety and boosts metabolism.
• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish like salmon and bangus) reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Magnesium enhances insulin function and helps regulate blood pressure.

A balanced diet that includes these nutrients supports the body’s natural ability to manage glucose levels and maintain energy throughout the day.

Live Better: Move More, Stress Less, Sleep Well

Beyond diet, lifestyle plays a crucial role in preventing diabetes. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week but even simple activities like walking after meals or desk stretches during work hours can help manage weight and improve insulin function.

Sleep and stress also matter more than most people realize. Chronic stress and lack of rest disrupt metabolism, increase cravings, and elevate the risk of diabetes. Mindfulness, meditation, or even a few deep-breathing breaks daily can go a long way in restoring balance.

A Call for Awareness and Action

Managing health may seem difficult amid busy schedules, but small, consistent efforts can lead to big results. Diabesity may be rising, but it’s not unstoppable. With early detection, balanced nutrition, and active living, Filipinos can take control of their health and shape a stronger, diabetes-free future.

Diabesity doesn’t happen overnight, it’s a lifestyle disease built on everyday choices. The good news? You can also reverse it one healthy habit at a time. Let’s make health a Filipino priority, not an afterthought. 

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The Healthy Way to Grieve: Healing Starts with Feeling

The Healthy Way to Grieve: Healing Starts with Feeling

October 24, 2025

There’s No One Way to Heal from Loss and That’s Okay

Grief is something we all go through, the loss of a loved one, a pet, or even a chapter in our lives. One day you feel okay, and the next, you’re overwhelmed by tears. It’s unpredictable, exhausting, and deeply personal.

According to Dr. Jon Edward B. Jurilla from the Department of Psychiatry at Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), one of the country’s top hospitals, there’s no right or wrong way to grieve.

“Grief is a very personal experience. No two people grieve alike,” says Dr. Jurilla. “You don’t need to follow all five stages of grief in order and it’s okay if you skip some or feel emotions not included in the model, like shock or guilt.”

Why Grief Feels So Heavy

Losing someone close can feel like losing a part of yourself. The emotional pain is real, and it can manifest physically too like sleepless nights, exhaustion, or even loss of appetite.

“Grief is a natural, human response that can be physically and emotionally gut-wrenching,” explains Dr. Jurilla. “Losing a spouse, parent, or child can feel like losing a part of you, because in reality, they were.”

How to Grieve in a Healthy Way

Dr. Jurilla reminds us that the first step toward healing is acknowledgment  allowing yourself to feel everything. Here’s how to navigate your journey through grief in a healthier way:

1. Acknowledge Your Emotions

Don’t bottle things up. Cry if you must, scream if you need to, and allow yourself to experience the full weight of your feelings. Healing begins when you stop judging yourself for being human.

2. Talk About It

Whether it’s with a close friend, a family member, a counselor, or a faith leader, talking about your grief helps lighten the burden. Sometimes, saying your thoughts out loud can be cathartic and bring much-needed clarity.

3. Express Yourself Creatively

Write your thoughts in a journal, paint, or go for a quiet walk in nature. Finding your own outlet helps process emotions that words can’t always express.

4. Stay Connected

Grieving doesn’t have to be lonely. Surround yourself with people who truly care about you. If you can, join support groups where you can share experiences with others who understand what you’re going through.

5. Take Care of Your Body

Grief can drain your energy. Remember to eat well, sleep enough, and accept help from others. If someone offers to drive you somewhere or treat you to lunch, saying yes to small acts of care can make a big difference.

6. Keep Their Memory Close

It’s natural to want to keep a part of your loved one with you. You can wear something they owned, keep a favorite photo nearby, or create a small memorial space at home.

7. Remember the Good Times

Reminiscing about happy memories, inside jokes, or little quirks can help soften the pain. These moments remind you of the love that remains, even after loss.

8. Take It One Day at a Time

Healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means learning to carry your love and memories differently.

“As time passes, your sadness will give way to calm acceptance,” says Dr. Jurilla. “That doesn’t mean you love the person you lost any less, it means they continue to live in your heart.”

When to Seek Help

If grief begins to interfere with your ability to function or if you feel persistently hopeless, reach out for professional help. Psychiatrists and counselors at MakatiMed can provide support and coping tools for your emotional wellness journey.

For more information, contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632 8888 8999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph or visit www.makatimed.net.ph

Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter for more health insights.

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Camella Continues North Luzon Expansion with Launch of Camella Solano in Nueva Vizcaya

Camella Continues North Luzon Expansion with Launch of Camella Solano in Nueva Vizcaya

October 22, 2025

The heart of Nueva Vizcaya came alive in a celebration of culture, community, and contemporary living as Camella unveiled Camella Solano through Florece: Modern Lifestyles in Full Bloom. Held at Balai Gloria Hotel in Solano, the event marked a milestone in the continued expansion of the Philippines’ most trusted and preferred housing brand across North Luzon, bringing its signature blend of comfort and convenience to the province known as the Gateway to the Cagayan Valley.

A blooming breakthrough

Inspired by the passionate pulse and poetry of a Spanish fiesta, Florece captured the essence of a life well lived, where communities burst with vitality, possibilities unfold with promise, and aspirations reach their finest season. The occasion celebrated not only the prospects of its newest residential development but also the spirit of progress shared by the people of Solano.

Guests, homebuyers, investors, and business partners were welcomed by Zen Han, who hosted the event with enthusiasm. Setting the tone for the afternoon, Ailene Sarmiento, Group Head for North Luzon and Mega Manila, delivered heartfelt remarks that highlighted the enduring mission of Camella: to create lifestyles that flourish, designed for Filipino families who dream of a better and brighter tomorrow.

For his part, the Hon. Atty. Philip Agraan Dacayo, Mayor of Solano, welcomed Camella with an inspiring message saying, “Every home that will be built in Camella Solano will hold more than windows and walls-it will hold stories. Stories of parents who work hard for a better life. Stories of young people who will dream bigger. Stories of families who will plant their future in Solano. Because a true community is not built of cement-it is built of character. Built by people who believe in unity, peace, and progress with purpose. When we are united, nothing is impossible. And tonight, we move forward together.”

Concept Development Officer Ar. Cristina Boñula presented the vision behind Camella Solano, detailing how the design captures the dream of Novo Vizcayano living. Her presentation displayed a future-ready community that enhances family life while preserving the natural beauty of the province.

In true Florece fashion, the event echoed the rhythm of a Spanish fiesta. Guests were treated to dynamic performances, including a soulful salsa and a stirring paso doble, embodying the motion of modern Filipino life. The ceremonial toast led by Hon. Atty. Philip Agraan Dacayo, Mayor of Solano, alongside Group Head Ailene Sarmiento, Officer-in-Charge for North Luzon Rona Roces, Ar. Ryan Erese, Ar. Tina Boñula and Group Accounting Head Norris Gonzales, formally sealed the partnership and shared prosperity for Nueva Vizcaya.

Where dreams meet design

Rising on 17 hectares of scenic land along the National Highway in Barangay Bascaran, Camella Solano introduces an iconic community that blends form and functionality. Homeowners will enjoy recreational amenities, including a clubhouse, swimming pool, and multi-purpose courts for family and community bonding.

Echoing the charm of Spanish seaside villages, Camella integrates Mediterranean touches into its house models, their color palettes evoking the warmth of the morning sun, the deep blue of the sea, and the soft tones of the shore. Each home is designed to maximize space, with layouts catering to different life stages, whether for a young professional, couples starting a family, multigenerational households, returning OFWs, or retirees seeking a suburban setting. Camella ensures round-the-clock safety through roving guards and high perimeter walls. Its proximity to academic institutions, workplaces, healthcare facilities, and commercial centers provides ease while maintaining a serene environment close to nature.

The Philippines’ largest homebuilder

For nearly five decades, Camella has been building homes in beautifully planned communities across the Philippines. With the widest geographic reach, Camella continues to create thriving communities that embody innovation and inclusivity. With over 600,000 homeowners across 1,240 communities in 49 provinces and 147 cities and municipalities, Camella remains at the heart of Filipino homeownership.

As North Luzon continues to forge forward, Camella remains steadfast in its support, building where development meets desire. Through Camella Solano, Nueva Vizcaya steps onto the map of progress, offering families a life framed by mountains, fueled by heritage, and fashioned for future growth.

Discover more about Camella at www.camella.com.ph and follow @CamellaOfficial.

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Do Hormones Affect Breast Cancer? MakatiMed Explains the Link

Do Hormones Affect Breast Cancer? MakatiMed Explains the Link

October 15, 2025

MakatiMed Explains How Hormones Can Influence Breast Cancer and Why Early Detection Matters

Hormones play a powerful role in a woman’s body, from regulating mood and reproductive health to supporting bone and brain function. But did you know that hormonal imbalance or prolonged exposure to certain hormones can also increase the risk of developing breast cancer?

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) sheds light on the link between hormones and breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of early screening and advanced imaging for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

Understanding the Hormonal Link to Breast Cancer

Two key hormones, estrogen and progesterone, are essential for maintaining a woman’s reproductive health. Estrogen regulates the menstrual cycle, while progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and supports milk production.

However, excessive or prolonged exposure to these hormones can increase the risk of hormone-sensitive breast cancer, as they fuel the growth of hormone-dependent cancer cells.

“Hormone-sensitive breast cancer cells contain hormone receptors—estrogen receptors (ERs) and progesterone receptors (PRs). When hormones bind to these receptors, they activate certain genes that trigger cell growth,” explains Dr. Melodie Grace M. Remorca from MakatiMed’s Breast Imaging Center.

According to the American Cancer Society, about two out of three breast cancers are hormone receptor-positive, meaning they respond to estrogen or progesterone.

Hormone Therapy: A Key Treatment Option

Hormone-sensitive breast cancers can be treated with hormone therapy, which works by either reducing the body’s production of estrogen and progesterone or blocking hormones from binding to cancer cells.

Dr. Remorca shares that depending on the treatment type, hormone therapy can:

• Slow down or stop the growth of hormone-driven cancer cells
• Lower the risk of the cancer returning
• Be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to prevent recurrence

Patients typically take hormone therapy for at least five years, often alongside surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

“Hormone therapy has proven effective in reducing the risk of recurrence and improving survival rates,” Dr. Remorca adds. “Still, early detection remains key to the best outcomes.”

Why Early Screening Saves Lives

Common symptoms of breast cancer include a lump in the breast, nipple discharge or inversion, and changes in breast shape or size. Anyone experiencing these signs should consult a specialist immediately for screening.

Since 1993, MakatiMed’s Breast Imaging Center has been a pioneer in breast imaging in the Philippines, offering state-of-the-art services such as:

• Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (3D Mammography)
• Breast Ultrasound (Sonomammogram)
• Ultrasound- and Stereotactic-Guided Biopsies
• Cyst and Fine Needle Aspiration
• Wire Needle Localization and Galactography

The center’s all-women team of expert radiologists, technologists, and nurses provides comprehensive care in a supportive environment, helping patients through every step of diagnosis and treatment.

While genetics and lifestyle play a role in breast cancer risk, hormonal factors are also significant—especially for women with long-term exposure to estrogen and progesterone. The good news? With advanced imaging, personalized treatments, and increased awareness, early detection offers hope and better survival rates.

As MakatiMed continues to lead in women’s health, it reminds Filipinas that knowledge, prevention, and regular screening are their best defenses against breast cancer.

For consultations, contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632 8888 8999 or visit www.makatimed.net.ph.

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