How to Boost Your Immune System Through Nutrition

When people think about their immune system, they typically contemplate its role in battling a cold or illness.  However, there is a clear link between the immune system and nutrition. 

Our immune system is one of the most efficient ways to defend against viral infections.  Everyone's immune system has two types of functions: innate immunity, which prevents diseases from entering the body, and adaptive immunity, which removes or inhibits the growth of pathogens such as viruses and bacteria in the body.

Malnourished people's immune systems shut down. People who are overweight or obese have an overactive immune system, leading to inflammation. This is especially alarming in the Philippines, where the 2021 Expanded National Nutrition Survey (ENNS) found that 29.5% of Filipino adults are overweight and 14.8% are obese, indicating an increasing trend connected to sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary choices.

Furthermore, when the country enters the rainy season, Filipinos are more vulnerable to ailments like the common cold, flu, and other respiratory infections, making it even more crucial to prioritize immune health.

How Nutrition Impacts the Body’s Immune System

There is a clear link between the immune system and nutrition.  Chemical reactions can influence our health state by influencing what we eat, where we live, how much sleep we get, how much exercise we do, and even who we live with. 

 

The microbiome is a group of bacteria that help us fight germs, digest food, generate vitamins, and strengthen our immune system.

The majority of the immune system, about 70%, is positioned in the intestines and regulates food intake and metabolism.  This makes it vital that we consume a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients while leading a healthy lifestyle.

4 Tips to Increase Nutrients that Help Strengthen the Immune System

Eating a balanced diet requires ensuring that there is optimal nutrition intake at a cellular level. Make sure you consume enough of the following nutrients:  

1. Include protein in your daily nutrition. 

Protein, often known as the body's basic building block, permits the body to produce antibodies necessary to protect against invading viruses and bacteria.  To get enough healthy protein foods, consume fish, poultry, lean meats, soy products like tofu and tempeh, and low-fat dairy.

2. Incorporate vitamins and phytonutrients. 

Vitamins A and C, as well as phytonutrients, are important immune system components.  Vitamin C, one of the most powerful immune system boosters, stimulates our bodies to manufacture antibodies that fight infections.  Vitamin C must be consumed on a daily basis because the body cannot create or store it.  Vitamin A promotes the health of our skin, digestive tract, and respiratory system.

Phytonutrients in  vegetables and fruits minimize oxidative stress, which can weaken the body's ability to fight infections. A variety of phytonutrients have been demonstrated to lessen the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, combat inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve the overall health of our immune system.

3. Focus on gut health with probiotics and prebiotics. 

The digestive system plays an important role in immunological function.  The intestinal tract is the primary point of interaction with the outside world, and it contains the microbiome, which aids digestion and nutritional absorption.  Having the correct gut bacteria has been linked to benefits such as weight loss, improved digestion, healthier skin, and, most crucially, improved immune function, albeit research in these areas is not conclusive or generally applicable. 

 

According to studies, probiotics, or "good bacteria," help to maintain the digestive system, while prebiotics, which are forms of fiber that the human body cannot digest, serve as food for these probiotics.

4. Increase omega-3 fatty acids. 

Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) are essential types of fat found in seafood, flax and chia seeds, and supplements like fish oil.  Omega-3 fatty acids may improve immune cell function, which is important in both the innate and adaptive response to infections. 

 

Following general good-health standards, such as a balanced diet and frequent exercise, is your first line of defense and the most effective approach to naturally maintain a robust and healthy immune system.

Herbalife's recently launched ImmuLift in the Philippines is an immunity-boosting dietary supplement drink.  ImmuLift is formulated with a unique blend of ingredients that include EpiCor® (a clinically researched ingredient that strengthens the body's first and second lines of defense), Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, Selenium, and Zinc. It is intended for adults to support their daily wellness and help maintain their body's natural defenses.

MOA Globe lights up as AirAsia Philippines celebrates its 16th Skytrax win with fares as low as PHP116

AirAsia Philippines illuminated the iconic MOA Globe in red and gold to celebrate its 16th consecutive win as the World's Best Low-Cost Airline at the renowned 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards.

The activity, themed "Still Winning, Still Gold," honors AirAsia's ongoing reputation as the gold standard in low-cost travel, providing exceptional service, affordable tickets, and seamless connectivity across the region.

To mark this milestone, AirAsia Philippines has introduced special promotional prices starting at PHP116 one-way for select domestic and international destinations.  Over 450,000 seats are available for booking between June 18 and July 3, 2025, with travel dates ranging from July 2, 2025 to March 31, 2026.

Meanwhile, in its Kuala Lumpur megahub, AirAsia has debuted a special aircraft livery to mark the win, which will fly across the AirAsia network, symbolizing the airline's ongoing quality, strength, and the trust of almost a billion passengers since its beginning in 2001.

About AirAsia Philippines

AirAsia is a leading low-cost carrier with licenses to operate in five Asean countries—Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. Founded in 2001, AirAsia has stayed true to its purpose and tagline "Now Everyone Can Fly". The airline has made flying affordable and accessible to over 800 million guests, connecting people and communities across more than 130 destinations. Today, as one of the largest airlines in the region, AirAsia is expanding to become the world's first global low cost network carrier. It operates more than 200 aircraft and holds a significant orderbook for the next decade. AirAsia leads in sustainable aviation with green initiatives and a net zero target by 2050. In 2023, it avoided 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions from its narrowbody regional network through 20+ efficiency measures, saving US$40 million in fuel and over US$388,000 in shadow carbon costs.

The newest C2 Freeze Melon to feel cool and refreshing

C2’s latest offering, C2 Freeze Melon, offers a refreshing fruity taste and a satisfying cooling sensation with every sip making it a good drink companion on warm days

Warm days can be uncomfortable, especially high-temperature mornings and afternoons that leave you sweaty and exhausted.  In situations like this, it's always helpful to have a refreshing drink to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day.

The new C2 Freeze Melon is a pleasant and fruity drink that might help you beat the heat.

C2 Freeze Melon is the most refreshing way to enjoy your favorite tea.  Aside from its delightful blast of fruity melon flavor, each sip provides a soothing cooling sensation that is ideal for hot days.  This new drink from C2 ready-to-drink tea brand is prepared with 100% natural green tea leaves, which are considered to be high in natural antioxidants.

Beat the heat and stay refreshed with C2 Dalandan and C2’s latest offering, C2 Freeze Melon and C2 Peach Black Tea

Still looking for more fruity flavors from C2?  C2 Dalandan's spicy, tropical flavor will keep you cool, while C2 Peach's fruity-meets-tea blend will satisfy.  With their delightfully wonderful taste, you'll want another bottle.

Do not let the heat slow you down.  Grab your favorite C2 Cool and Clean tastes to feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and cool anytime, anyplace.

For more information on your favorite C2 products, visit the brand’s Facebook and TikTok pages.

C2 Cool and Clean is a ready-to-drink green tea beverage made by Universal Robina Corporation (URC), the company behind iconic brands, such as Great Taste White, Payless Instant Noodles, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Cloud 9, Maxx, and Magic Crackers, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for decades. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook Page and TikTok.

AMA Land - BCDA explore affordable housing opportunities in New Clark City

As part of its ongoing efforts to increase the availability of low-cost housing in New Clark City, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has hired real estate developer AMA Land, Inc. to investigate and evaluate new affordable housing prospects in the rapidly growing metropolis.

On Friday, June 13, 2025, BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang and AMA Land Chairman Emeritus Dr. Amable R. Aguiluz V signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish a collaborative framework for conducting feasibility and business case studies on a potential affordable housing project in New Clark City.

This collaboration aims to combine the two organizations' resources and expertise to create sustainable and inclusive housing developments in New Clark City, in line with their common goal of creating dynamic communities while promoting environmental stewardship and long-term economic growth.

“Together, we will explore how to design homes that are not just affordable, but wellconnected, climate-resilient, and empowering—homes that allow working families to live near jobs, education, and opportunity. We thank AMA Land, led by Dr. Aguiluz, for sharing our belief that development must reach all sectors of society. Together, we are planting the seeds for communities that future generations will inherit with pride.” ~Joshua M. Bingcang, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer

According to the MOU, AMA Land will offer its technical experience and lead the technical evaluations, feasibility studies, and business case development for the housing project.

Following the conclusion of these studies, AMA Land will make suggestions for the project, with a focus on sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity in housing design.  This ensures that the project has a varied selection of housing options that can accommodate  Different income levels and family sizes.

"I call BCDA the department that never sleeps. Under PCEO Joshua Bingcang's leadership, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, the Philippines' longest toll road, now serves as an important milestone. Now, this collaboration between BCDA and AMA Land is aimed at tackling the pressing issues of housing shortage and climate change. Not just in New Clark City, but eventually, in other BCDA properties. This MOU signifies more than just a formal agreement; it represents a shared vision and a concrete step towards addressing critical needs within our nation. Our goal is to design and develop affordable housing projects and sustainable communities within New Clark City." ~Dr. Amable R. Aguiluz V, AMA Land Chairman Emeritus

New Clark City is envisioned as the country's first smart, green, and resilient metropolis, expertly constructed to represent the concepts of sustainability and inclusivity.  At its core, this district is being designed as a people-centered development, with the goal of improving Filipinos' quality of life and empowering local communities while sparking economic progress.

The creation of affordable housing plots in New Clark City helps the Marcos administration achieve its goal of closing the country's housing deficit.  This is also consistent with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, namely the methods for establishing livable communities.

Aside from this collaboration with AMA Land, the BCDA has taken significant steps to provide affordable and sustainable housing options in New Clark City.  In July 2023, the state-run corporation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to formalize their relationship under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH).

FEU's creative legacy powers national vision for arts in education

 

When Abraham Diolanda, a fourth-year medical biology student, joined the Far Eastern University (FEU) Chorale during the pandemic, he simply sought a creative outlet. 

When Abraham Diolanda, a fourth-year  medical biology student, joined the Far Eastern University (FEU) Chorale during the pandemic, he simply sought a creative outlet. What he discovered was far  richer: 

“I found a second home. My journey with the FCA taught me discipline, built my confidence, and grounded me in empathy, resilience, and servant leadership.” ~Abraham Diolanda, a fourth-year  medical biology student, joined the Far Eastern University (FEU) Chorale

Diolanda's tale is just one of many shaped by the FEU Center for the Arts (FCA), a community of campus-based, student-led cultural groups that includes the university's Bamboo Band, Chorale, Dance Company, Drum and Bugle Corps, Drummers, Guides, and Theater Guild.  Beyond organizing concerts and providing mentorship, the FCA fosters creativity, self-reliance, and a strong sense of purpose, reflecting the university's overall dedication to holistic student development.

For Danyel Reyes, an alumnus of the Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts, the experience went well beyond campus.  

“Through the FEU Dance Company, I performed,  choreographed, and even competed abroad—something I never imagined doing as a student.” ~Danyel Reyes, an alumnus of the  Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

Reyes, who has represented FEU and the Philippines twice in South Korea and once in Taiwan, credits the FCA with helping him strengthen his management abilities and professional maturity.  His experience at FCA continues to inform his present work as an advertising practitioner and a member of Hiraya Contemporary Dance Company.

This ethos took national stage when FEU  recently hosted the 11th National Conference of the Association of Cultural Offices in Philippine Educational Institutions, Inc. (ACOPEI). The event united  cultural officers, educators, policymakers, and prominent speakers such as  National Artist Ricky Lee, NCCA Executive Director Eric Zerrudo, CHED Executive  Director Atty. Cinderella Filipina Benitez-Jaro, DTI Creative Industries  Program Manager Atty. Gio Franco Gomez, and CCP Vice President Dennis Marasigan.

In  recognition of FEU’s leadership in arts and culture education, the conference  also marked the election of FCA Director Martin Lopez as ACOPEI president. In his three-year term, Lopez will prioritize a Safe Space  Handbook for student artists, a legislative proposal mandating Cultural Affairs  Offices in higher education institutions and closer relations with the Commission on Higher Education.

Over the past two academic years, the  FCA has engaged an average of more than 300 student-artists per semester, with  more than half benefiting from full scholarships. Participation has consistently been strongest from the Institute of Arts and Sciences and the Institute of Health Sciences and Nursing, which underscore a broad appreciation for the arts that span both humanities and STEM disciplines.

This level of participation is made possible in part by FEU’s robust scholarship  program, which plays a critical role in keeping the arts accessible to students from all backgrounds. Students who meet both academic and artistic standards may receive partial or full grants, with topperformers eligible for additional assistance that covers miscellaneous fees. For many, this support enables not only participation but the completion of their education. “As a student who struggled financially,  receiving an FCA scholarship helped me finish college,” recalled Aulwin Ortiz, a former member of the FEU Drummers. He added  that the FCA became a space of diversity and unity, where a wide range of perspectives were embraced, celebrated, and channeled toward a shared goal.

With this foundation of inclusiveness,  FCA student-artists regularly bring recognition to FEU on national and global  stages—from the  Chorale’s participation in the Asia Choral Grand Prix in Bali, to the Dance  Company’s silver-medal finish at South Korea’s Andong Mask Festival. Their accomplishments span performances across Philippine cities such  as Baguio, Tarlac, Cavite, and Manila, as well as global venues in Indonesia  and Mongolia. These triumphs further resonate through FEU’s cultural calendar, with FCA groups  leading signature events like the Marching Band Festival, Tamdula, FEUlikulahan at Kuwentuhan and Pasko sa Piyu that exemplify FEU’s dedication to creative enrichment and excellence. 

“At FEU, culture and creativity are not peripheral to education. Our work at the FCA has always been about  widening access and deepening impact and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to create, lead, and find belonging through artistic expression.” ~Martin Lopez, ~FCA DirectorACOPEI President

Now at the helm of ACOPEI, Lopez brings  with him a vision grounded in practice. His national agenda is not a departure,  but a continuation of the inclusive, student-centered work he has long  championed at FEU. By scaling the values and experiences that have defined the  FCA— access, mentorship, and empowerment—Lopez aims to help institutions nationwide recognize them as a vital pillar of education.

Outgoing ACOPEI members Joel Parcon (University  of Asia and the Pacific), Martin Lopez (Far Eastern University), Glorife Samodio (De La Salle University), Elenita Cruz (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina) and Jesus Montajes (Ateneo de Davao University) thank National Commission for Culture and  the Arts executive director Eric Zerrudo, Commission on Higher Education (CHED)  executive director Atty. Cinderella Filipina Benitez-Jaro, and Department of  Trade and Industry Creative Industries Program Manager Atty. Gio Franco Gomez for sharing their insights from the education, cultural, and business sectors.

Martin Lopez from the FEU Center for the Arts moderated a discussion on trends in artistic programming with Vice President and Artistic Director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines  Dennis Marasigan.  

 

FEU students, faculty and officials  take and reflect on an exam on emotions administered by speaker Mary Loh from  Singapore.

FEU Center for the Arts Senior Director Martin Lopez was elected as ACOPEI president. In his first address to  the membership, he encouraged more collaboration among members and with industry partners, here and abroad.  

 

Rewiring the Filipino Mind: AMA 2.0's AI Blueprint for Tomorrow’s Innovators (Celebrating 45 years of Leadership In Quality IT Education)

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to  reshape the global workforce and redefine modern education, AMA Education  System is taking a bold leap forward. With the launch of its transformative initiative AMA 2.0, the  institution has become the first in the Philippines to integrate AI education  across all levels—from Grade 1 to college—placing the country on the path to producing not  just skilled professionals, but true innovators in the AI field. 

 

This sweeping educational reform reflects a growing urgency to equip Filipino learners with skills that go beyond  traditional digital literacy. By embedding AI early in the academic journey, AMA aims to foster a generation of critical thinkers, ethical technology users,  and industry-ready talents capable of navigating—and shaping—an  increasingly automated and data-driven world. 

 

 

Starting Early: Building AI Awareness in Grade School 

In Basic Education  (Grades 1–10), AI is introduced through the Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) subject.  The focus at this stage is on foundational digital literacy and responsible use  of AI tools such as learning assistants and smart applications. More than just using these technologies, students are guided to understand their functions,  limitations, and potential ethical implications. 

“Starting AI education at a young age helps demystify the technology. We want students to see AI not as something distant or intimidating, but as a tool they can use to create, explore, and communicate.” ~Dr. Amos, AMA’s Vice President for Academic Affairs

High School Application: From AI Users to AI Thinkers 

At the Senior High School level, particularly under the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood  (TVL) track, AI education shifts toward more practical and technical applications. Students explore the use of AI in areas like data analytics, content generation, image and speech recognition, and even workflow automation.

More importantly, AMA emphasizes critical  thinking and evaluation of AI-generated outputspreparing students  to interact with these technologies thoughtfully and ethically, not passively. 

 

 

Pioneering College Programs: Training Tomorrow’s AI Architects 

AMA  2.0’s most groundbreaking component lies at the college level. The introduction  of a Bachelor of Science in Artificial  Intelligence (BS AI) marks the first dedicated AI degree program in the country—a move that sets AMA apart as a leader in next-generation education. 

The program is designed to immerse students  in core AI concepts such as machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, and AI deployment in business and industry. Meanwhile, those enrolled in BS Computer Science (BSCS) or BS Information Technology (BSIT) can opt for an AI Specialization Track, offering equally rigorous training with a balanced foundation in  general computing. 

 

 

Students across all tracks delve into advanced topics such as: 

• Deep learning and neural network design 
• Fine-tuning of large language models (LLMs) 
• Cloud-based AI deployment via AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure 
• Ethical governance of AI and responsible innovation 

• Industry-based application development and integration 

These programs also align with internationally recognized certifications, including: 

Google TensorFlow Developer 

• AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty

This ensures graduates are not only academically trained but also equipped with globally competitive credentials. 

 

Expanding Access through Distance Learning 

AMA University is reshaping the landscape of tech education through its Open Distance Education Learning (ODEL) program, offering full degree courses in BS Information Technology (BSIT) and BS Computer Science (BSCS). Tailored for learners outside the traditional classroom setup—such as working professionals, stay-at-home parents, and students in underserved or remote areas—ODEL delivers quality instruction anytime, anywhere. The program mirrors AMA’s on-campus curriculum and includes forward-thinking tracks like Artificial Intelligence (AI) along with pathways to globally recognized certifications. With ODEL, students can build competitive skills and earn industry-relevant credentials—flexibly, affordably, and at their own pace. 

 

 

Closing the Opportunity Gap 

“AMA 2.0 reflects our firm belief that no Filipino learner should be left behind in the era of emerging technologies. This is about building the future—not just teaching technology, but empowering students to innovate, solve real-world problems, and contribute meaningfully to the digital economy.” ~Dr. Amable R. Aguiluz V, Chairman and Founder of AMA Education System

 

AMA 2.0 gives students a clear and guided path to enter this changing world, as AI is driving transformations throughout industries, from healthcare and education to finance and transportation.

 

What Families and Learners Can Expect Key highlights of AMA 2.0’s AI roadmap include: 

• Early exposure to AI tools and ethical practices from as early as Grade 1 
• Hands-on experience and project-based learning in Senior High School 
• A dedicated AI degree program, plus specialization options in IT and Computer Science 
• Access to industry-grade training, mentorship, and certification opportunities 
• A competitive edge in pursuing global careers in tech, research, and development 

 

 

A National Call to Action 

As AI becomes more embedded in everyday life, the responsibility to prepare the next generation falls squarely on the country’s educational institutions. AMA Education System’s forward-thinking approach with AMA 2.0 is not just a curriculum innovation—it is a national call to future-proof the  Filipino workforce.

In a  time when many countries are investing heavily in AI, AMA’s initiative signals  that the Philippines is ready to be part of that  conversation—not merely as consumers of technology, but as creators and leaders in the field. 

 

AI Specialization, Made Accessible 

AMA University extends its AI specialization to students nationwide through its flexible Open Distance Education Learning (ODeL)  program. Accessible through AMAU’s network of Education  Support and Admission Centers across the country, this hybrid setup combines  two days of on-site or flexible in-person sessions with three days of virtual  classroom learning—offering both structure and flexibility for today’s diverse learners. 

 

 

On hectic days, Kathryn Bernardo shares the reliable companion who keeps her ganado

Renowned actress Kathryn Bernardo shares her excitement on the reformulated blend of her favorite coffee, Great Taste White

The actress says she always starts her day with her favorite coffee, Great Taste White, which has been redesigned to be more creamy, ma-kape, and pinasarap.

Celebrities, no matter how spectacular their lives appear to be, have their own daily routines.  Early call times, events, and frantic scenes on set—the list goes on.  And, like us, they need a morning pick-me-up to get through a hectic schedule.

Kathryn Bernardo, an actress, considers coffee a crucial element of her daily routine.  Whether she's getting ready for a hectic day or relaxing in the morning, a good cup of coffee keeps her going.  Her go-to?  None other than Great Taste White.

A more exciting timpla of her favorite coffee

During a recent interview, Kathryn expressed her delight at discovering that Great Taste White's tamang timpla, which she has always enjoyed, is now even better.  The actress also mentions that the revised blend is more creamy and ma-kape.

“Nakakatuwa na the brand also improved! Masarap na dati [pero] in-improve pa ngayon to cater all ages, my age, yung lahat. Ang Great Taste White ngayon, mas creamy at mas ma-kape. So, mas pinasarap pa yung tamang timpla niya. 

Parang may ka-partner ako parati, especially with my line of work, it's very busy. It's important na mayroon kang something na tutulong sa 'yo para magawa mo yung mga tasks mo for that day. Siguro for me, pag sa taping or sa shooting, I need something to keep me awake so that I can give it my all. 

Kasi [ako], [gusto ko yung] tamang timpla ng coffee—not too sweet, not too strong. [Kung] kailangan mo yung tamang timpla, I think yung brand na Great Taste White mabibigay yun sa lahat ng consumers natin. More than anything, I think, bigyan lang ng chance, subukan. And then I'm sure na kapag masubukan mo, hanap-hanapin mo siya.” ~Kathryn Bernardo

Keeping her ganado every day

With the reformulated Great Taste White as part of her daily routine, Kathryn says she's more excited than ever to start her day.  And because she is not a morning person, the actress claims it has become a dependable "partner" throughout hectic days.

Giving the new Great Taste White a try

For Kathryn, the new Great Taste White has the right balance, which makes all the difference. And this is also the reason coffee lovers should give it a try.

Try the new Great Taste White’s mas ma-kape, mas creamy, at mas pinasarap na tamang timpla. Lipat na sa mas pinasarap na Great Taste White!

 

Follow Great Taste on Facebook for updates.

 

Great Taste White is a product of Universal Robina Corporation (URC), maker of well-loved Pinoy snack and beverage products such as C2 Cool and Clean, Jack ‘n Jill Piattos, Nova, Maxx, Cloud 9, Magic Crackers, and many others. To learn more about URC, visit its website (www.urc.com.ph), Facebook page (@URCPhilippines) and TikTok account (@URCPhilippines).