PhilHealth boosts coverage for cataract operation

by Info @Brand Zone | Feb. 18, 2025

Press Release | February 18, 2025

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) announced the

implementation of its enhanced benefits for Extracapsular Cataract Extraction with

Insertion of Intraocular Lens (IOL) covering both adult and pediatric surgeries,

effective January 30, 2025.

This initiative is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to

continually improve and sustain healthcare benefits being provided by the state

health insurer, ensuring adequate financial support to patients seeking medical

treatment.

Based on PhilHealth Circular 2025-0001 published on January 15, 2025, benefits for

adult cataract surgery have significantly increased by more than fourfold, with

financial support starting at P20,200. Coverage varies depending on the type of lens

used, with procedures involving a monofocal IOL or standard lens at P28,300 per

eye. Premium lenses such as monofocal toric IOL that provides clear vision at one

specific distance while correcting astigmatism are covered for P43,800 per eye, a

multifocal IOL that helps see both near and far objects at P66,900 per eye, and

multifocal toric IOL that corrects astigmatism and multiple viewing distances at

P80,900 for the right eye.

Meanwhile, pediatric cataract surgery coverage has seen an unprecedented increase

of tenfold, with benefits reaching up to P135,000 per eye and P139,050 for both eyes.

If an intraocular lens (IOL) is included, coverage is at P179,000 per eye and P187,100

for both eyes.

Previously, PhilHealth pays for cataract extraction at P16,000 per eye with no

differentiation between adult and pediatric cases.

To ensure timely and uninterrupted healthcare services, the state health insurer

reminds all accredited healthcare facilities to maintain minimum stock levels of

intraocular lenses, essential eye medications, life-saving drugs, IV fluids, and

necessary supplies to avoid unwarranted out-of-pocket from outside purchases and

services.

This notable increase in coverage for cataract extraction is expected to help reduce

preventable blindness and improve the quality of life of Filipinos suffering from this

type of eye condition.

In 2024, PhilHealth has disbursed a total of P3.58 billion for 224,209 cataract

removal procedures.

Pair-fect Bites: Double the romance with these bang-for-your-buck B1T1 deals at SM this love month

by Info @Brand Zone | Feb. 15, 2025

Specially bundled up for you and your S.O.!

It’s the most romantic time of the year! Yup, Valentine’s Day is coming up, and that means reaffirming your romance with your main squeeze, reminding pals that you care, and extending some much-needed love to yourself. But, let’s face it, it can be a pretty pricey occasion if you’re looking to show some love and appreciation. 

Fear not. We’ve got the real deals here—exclusively bundled up for two! All available with Swipe Coupons via the SM Malls Online app until February 28, our ‘Pair-fect Bites’ bring twice the deliciousness of new and familiar foodie favorites for the price of one. These Buy-1, Take-1 deals are for treating yourself and your S.O. (even third-wheels!) to Cupid-approved eats—and everything in between. 

Bo's Coffee

Coffee dates are a great setting for creating connection and making conversation. Drop by at Bo’s Coffee to get two (2) brews of the same variant for only P199. Choose from their selection of Cold White Brew and medium-sized cups of Froccino Mocha, Hot or Iced Caffe Americano, and Cappuccino. 

Wendy's 

Casual sub-and-burger dinner date for two? That works at Wendy’s—where you can have an easy get-to-know you banter.  Munch on their Crispy Chicken Sandwich and Cheeseburger Deluxe for only P129. 

Taho Story

Skip right to the sweets, and see what you've been missing. Swing by at Taho Story to get in on their buy-1, take-1 Taho with Ice Cream in their 8-ounce Medyo Cute cups. 

Fat Boy's Pizza and Pasta 

Hit Fat Boy’s Pizza and Pasta for a cozy, low-key yet indulgent pizza date night. Their Mega Duo offer allows you to get two (2) orders of their 15-inch Party Size Super Supremo and Hawaiian Pizza for only P699. 

Dunkin’ 

Share a large chocolate cuppa with your S.O. at Dunkin’. Grab their Combo 5 for only P140, which also includes a serving of freshly baked and melt-in-your-mouth Dunkin’ Yan. Nothing says perfect pairing than a decadent chocolate drink and donut sticks. 

Taco Bell

Another shareable is Taco Bell’s Crave and Save pairing at P189. This savory and sweet bundle includes one (1) Burrito Shawarma, one (1) serving of Cinnamon Twists, and (1) 12-ounce cup of soda. Big cravings and savings in one! 

Pancake House

Snack dates are fun, especially if you’re dining at Pancake House. Until March 31, from 2PM to 5PM (Mondays to Fridays), choose any two snacks for only P299 (saving you up to P297!). Pick from the following: 2-piece Classic Pancakes, Original Chicken Burger (classic or spicy), Golden Brown Waffle, Solo Spaghetti with Garlic Bread, or two (2) pieces of Best Taco in Town (classic or spicy). Cozy, midday cravings for feel-good flavor solved!

Candy Corner

Sweets for your sweet! Well, actually, Sour Patch Kids! The watermelon-shaped candy in a Theater Box 3.5oz/99g starts only at P135 from Candy Corner. Definitely perfect for movie nights or just hanging out. 

SWIPE to save

Share all the foodie love with these ‘Pair-fect Bites’ offers from the SM Malls Online app by following these easy steps. 

1. Download the SM Malls Online App and register.

2. Go to the Deals and Shop section to discover hundreds of SWIPE Coupons for mall deals.

3. Save for Later or Redeem your chosen SWIPE Coupon in-store to avail of the promo.

Download the SM Malls Online app today on Google Play and the App Store, to discover more discounts and fresh, fun, and flavorful steals near you.

Unleash Your Creativity at SM J Mall's Experience Pods

by Info @Brand Zone | Feb. 15, 2025

SM J Mall proudly unveils its latest innovation — Experience Pods, immersive creative spaces designed to inspire content creators, trendsetters, and visionaries alike. Located at the Atrium, Upper Ground Level, these dynamic pods provide captivating installations and innovative features perfect for photoshoots and social media challenges.  

Whether you’re capturing a casual fashion shoot or exploring new creative ideas, SM J Mall's Experience Pods, in collaboration with Power Mac Center, offer a unique environment to bring your imagination to life. Each pod is uniquely themed to deliver a memorable experience.  

• Cosmic Flow  

Immerse yourself in a serene, dreamy ambiance inspired by twilight skies. This pod features soft, dim lighting in gentle gradients, creating a tranquil atmosphere ideal for artistic and contemplative content. Equipped with iPads and JBL Bluetooth headsets playing songs that make you think of chill nights, Cosmic Flow provides the perfect setup for creators seeking ethereal vibes.  

• Coastal Chill  

Step into a vibrant, refreshing escape reminiscent of endless summer days. With turquoise and mint-colored accents and lighting that mimics the warmth of the sun, Coastal Chill delivers an upbeat atmosphere for social moments and vibrant content creation. Enjoy upbeat music genres like pop and disco, and capture every lively moment with the latest tech setup, including an iPad, iPhones, and JBL headsets playing summer chill songs.  

• Lovestream

Capture heartwarming moments at this charming, interactive space designed for couples, friends, and solo guests. The highlight is the Magic Mirror Camera Photobooth, offering high-quality images, lighting effects, and real-time touch controls. Strike a pose and take away memorable printed photos by just presenting your accumulated or combined receipts worth ₱1,500 from any store at SM J Mall. Strike a pose and take away memorable printed photos by just presenting your accumulated or combined receipts worth ₱1,500 from any store at SM J Mall.

Discover endless creative possibilities at SM J Mall's Experience Pods. Explore captivating themes, capture unique moments, and unleash your imagination in these immersive spaces. Let your creativity take center stage and visit now, only up until February 28!