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Love Is A Mommy: Laureen Jamero-Lejarde on Breastfeeding, Balance and Being Brave
Boholana mom and breastfeeding advocate Laureen “Love” Jamero-Lejarde shows that it’s possible to nurture family, advocacy and self—without spreading too thin. What is life without love? For Laureen “Love” Jamero-Lejarde, the answer is a life half-lived. A Boholana mom and community builder, Love doesn’t just talk empowerment—she practices it. To reach moms across Bohol, she created the Facebook page Love Is a Mommy, a space born from her involvement with Breastfeeding Bohol and Boholana Mommy Tribe. Her goal is simple: help moms with real-life hacks,…
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Ralph Barajan: True Courage in the Face of Adversity
When the M/V Siargao Princess began to sink on November 7, 2019, (former) Philippine Coast Guard officer and registered nurse Ralph Barajan took command—calming chaos, organizing survivors and helping save 62 lives. His bravery later earned the IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea. It was a bright, sunny morning on November 7, 2019, with clear skies and calm seas. The horizon looked peaceful, promising a smooth voyage to the passengers of the M/V Siargao Princess towards their destination in Sibonga, Cebu. Ralph Barajan was…
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Sheryl Guir: An Embodiment of a Strong, Resilient Woman
When life gives you lemons, what do you do? The proverbial phrase tells us to make lemonade, but Sheryl Guir chooses to make Margaritas instead. This is how she transforms even the sourest and most bitter moments of her life into sources of strength, becoming the strong and resilient woman she is today. A Multifaceted Woman A single mom of two, Sheryl wears many hats to support her family. She mirrors a bumblebee, diligently pursuing her life’s dreams. She is not just an insurance agent;…
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From Dreamer to Aesthetic Doctor: How Dr. Rovi Found Her True Calling
Sometimes, life’s most profound decisions arise from the unlikeliest circumstances. Such is the case for the talented and sophisticated Dr. Rovi Valerie Baguhin-Cayetuna, whose unwavering dedication to saving lives took an unexpected turn. Her journey is a testament that life’s truest fulfillment lies in embracing the unforeseen. Dr. Rovi, an epitome of grace and intellect, stood out wherever she went. Our paths crossed during high school, where her radiant smile and friendly demeanor left a lasting impression. I had the chance to know her up close…
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What It’s Like to Live and Work in Iceland
In the land of fire and ice, Marion Gay Renegado readies herself for another morning shift at the Landspitali University Hospital, the largest healthcare facility in Reykjavik. Hailing from the town of Cortes in Bohol, Philippines, she is a Filipina Nurse who has mastered the Icelandic language, thus securing the license to practice her profession in the heart of the country. For seven years, she immersed herself in Iceland’s rich culture, visited the country’s majestic attractions, and remained in awe of the enchanting northern lights…
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From Classroom to Global Impact: A Filipina’s Journey as a Nurse and Lactation Consultant
A woman endowed with a desire to serve, support and empower lives, especially women, Janice Bustamante-Aton fervently honed her craft in maternity nursing for nearly two decades of service. Since I became a mother, she has been one of my go-to consultants who gladly shared her expertise and tips in lactation, despite her busy schedule and being a thousand miles away from home in Bohol, Philippines. We’ve kept in touch since then, and I’ve been grateful for her support since day one. After learning about…
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Enriching Relationships with a Unique Toolbox for Love
When we spot broken items inside our homes, we instantly look for that trusty old toolbox to fix these items. Imagine if there was such a repair kit for relationships—how convenient that would be! As someone who went through challenging situations with her boyfriend of thirteen years and now husband, Alexandra Schelling realized it takes more than love to nourish a healthy relationship. Count on the fact that they went through a long-distance relationship for more than four years—this remarkable feat is worth celebrating for…
