MANILA —The United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing Php55 million ($1 million) in humanitarian aid to communities affected by widespread flooding triggered by Typhoon Carina, known internationally as Gaemi. Announced by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his visit to Manila on July 30, this assistance will address the immediate needs of affected and vulnerable communities in Bulacan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Lanao Del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, the National Capital Region, and Pampanga. Through this funding, USAID, in partnership with Catholic Relief Services and Action Against Hunger, will provide families with access to food aid, hygiene kits, emergency shelter kits, clean water, and one-time cash transfers that will allow them to recover from the disaster safely and with dignity.   “The United States is providing $1 million to ensure life-saving assistance reaches families across the archipelago who have been devastated by severe flooding and landslides,” said USAID Acting Mission Director Betty Chung.  “We are committed to working with the Philippine government and people as they rebuild and recover from this disaster.” Since July 16, USAID has been providing logistical assistance to the Philippines Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development in response to catastrophic floods and rains in Mindanao and Central Luzon.  USAID also supported the International Organization for Migration in distributing 700 shelter-grade tarpaulins and the World Food Programme in transporting 30,000 family food packs to communities in Mindanao. Typhoon Carina enhanced the southwest monsoon and caused heavy rainfall, massive flooding, and landslides across the Philippines that killed at least 14 people and displaced more than 700,000, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s latest assessments. USAID has provided over P3 billion ($50 million) in disaster relief and recovery aid for the Philippines since 2021. It continues to partner with the Philippine government in enhancing disaster resilience in communities across the country.      

 One of a kind running series in the Philippines partners with Santé Barley to promote running as a way to live more, do more Quezon City, Philippines – In an exciting move to promote healthier living among Filipinos, Santé Barley, the barley authority in the Philippines, proudly announces its role as a co-presenter and the Official Nutrition Partner of HOKA Trilogy Run Asia 2024. Since its inception in 2010, HOKA Trilogy Run Asia formerly known as RUNRIO Trilogy, has fueled the nation’s passion for running, cultivating an active lifestyle, and nurturing a vibrant community of athletes and enthusiasts alike. Now that more Filipinos are embracing the sport and the running scene has matured, Santé Barley recognizes the significance of this partnership, marking a pivotal moment for the brand as it expands its reach and advocates for an active and healthy lifestyle. The increase in the number of participants was evident during the opening race on April 8, with 8,000 runners taking part. Subsequently, more people have been registering, and organizers anticipate a turnout of at least 64,000 participants forthis year’s HOKA Trilogy Run Asia. Santé CEO Joey Marcelo expressed his enthusiasm, noting that this partnership represents a significant opportunity to promote healthier lifestyles among Filipinos. “We are thrilled to partner with HOKA Trilogy Run Asia, not only to expand Santé Barley’s reach but, more importantly, to promote health and fitness across the Philippines. Just as Santé Barley is packed with nutritional benefits, we believe in holistic wellness, and this alliance presents an exciting opportunity to inspire individuals to live more and do more,” said Marcelo. Marcelo also shared that within the Santé community, more employees and business owners are joining the races, making running a viable, affordable, and accessible choice to stay active. “The beauty of running is that you can do it whenever and wherever you want. Whether you run solo, with groups, or even if you don’t join races like this and just set your own PRs (personal records), you can still enjoy the sport. So, I am really glad that we get to share this positive outlook on running within the Santé community and, of course, with the general public,” Marcelo added. The partnership aligns perfectly with HOKA Trilogy Run Asia’s mission of promoting inclusivity and encouraging Filipinos to confidently adopt a healthier lifestyle. With a growing number of participants in their races, HOKA Trilogy Run Asia is expanding its reach to locations across the Philippines. Santé Barley’s support will further fuel this enthusiasm, fostering a positive, health-conscious community through running. The races will take place across six cities in the country, including Baguio, Cebu, Iloilo/Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, and Davao, with a National Finals in Pasay, featuring a total of 19 races nationwide. Several races have already been completed but interested runners can check out the dates below to participate in the upcoming legs Upcoming Races: Bacolod (July 28, 2024) Pasay, Manila (August 4, 2024) Cebu (August 18, 2024) Cagayan De Oro (September 15 and October 27, 2024) Baguio (September 29, 2024) Iloilo (October 13, 2024) Davao (October 20, 2024) National Finals in Pasay (December 8, 2024) In every race organized by RunRio Inc., Santé Barley sets up a booth where participants can enjoy Santé Barley products and experience the benefits of Santé before and after the race. This addition significantly enhances the overall race experience, providing runners with the necessary nutrition to perform and recover better. Santé Barley’s digital presence will also play a role in promoting the said races, with the help of its e-branches in Luzon (including Baguio City), Visayas (Cebu, Iloilo, and Bacolod), and Mindanao (Cagayan de Oro and Davao). Santé Barley is also part of other Run Rio races like Earth Day Run, Clark Marathon, Manila Half Marathon, and Manila Marathon, further solidifying its commitment to promoting running as a way to live healthier lives. Through this partnership, Santé Barley, RunRio Inc. and HOKA Trilogy Run Asia are not only promoting fitness and athleticism but also championing a lifestyle centered on well-being, vitality, and overall health. Together, they aim to inspire individuals of all ages and backgrounds to embrace the journey towards a healthier, more active future. To learn more about SantéBarley and other Santé products, visit its website at mySanté.com.