Michi Photostory

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. It is not contagious and can affect anyone, regardless of family history. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others face severe flare-ups that impact daily life. Living with psoriasis often involves medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support. 

I was diagnosed with psoriasis during my fourth year of college. At first, it was mild, and I could live normally—wearing what I wanted and going about my daily life. But after giving birth to my son, the condition became severe, spreading all over my body. 

Before joining any support groups, I felt alone and frustrated. I tried topical medications, phototherapy, and other treatments, but progress was slow and expensive. There were times I felt depressed, wishing I could have normal skin again. 

Joining the Asian Psoriasis Club and the local PsorPhil group gave me hope. I realized I wasn’t alone—there were others who truly understood what I was going through. 

World Psoriasis Day, observed globally every year, is dedicated to raising awareness about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The event aims to educate people, improve access to treatments, and reduce discrimination against those living with the condition. 

In 2010, I joined the Fun Walk in Manila organized by PsorPhil. I wanted to show the world that psoriasis is not contagious and connect with others battling the same condition. It was my first step toward advocacy, and I left feeling empowered and supported.

Two years later, I joined the World Psoriasis Day Fun Walk at Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City. This time, my husband and son accompanied me. We participated alongside doctors, sponsors, volunteers, and other supporters, all under the global theme “Put Psoriasis on the Agenda Now.” After the walk, we enjoyed games, activities, and even won the sack race with Asian PsorClub! These events are not just fun—they help build community and amplify awareness. 

In 2014, I attended another World Psoriasis Day event at San Andres Complex. The celebration included: 

Free medical consultations with dermatologists and rheumatologists 

Health checks like blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol, BMI, and urinalysis 

Free medications (while supplies lasted) 

Fun activities, including cheering competitions, raffles, and a Zumba party 

Each year, these events reinforce the importance of advocacy, support, and education for people living with psoriasis. 

Since 2011, the Philippines has observed National Psoriasis Awareness Week from October 23–29 via Presidential Proclamation. This initiative complements World Psoriasis Day by promoting education, reducing stigma, and increasing support for individuals with psoriasis. 

The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) also advocates worldwide for the 125 million people affected by psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Together, these efforts give patients a voice and encourage global awareness. 

Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition—it affects confidence, mental health, and daily life. Yet, with family support, medical care, and strong advocacy communities like Asian PsorClub and PsorPhil, living with psoriasis becomes manageable. 

I hope my story inspires others to: 

Seek support and join psoriasis communities 

Participate in awareness events like World Psoriasis Day 

Remember that psoriasis is not contagious 

Through continued education and advocacy, we can build a more understanding world for people living with psoriasis.

It was my first time joining BMW, and the event took place at the beautiful Morong Star Beach Resort and Hotel in Morong, Bataan. The whole-day activity was filled with engaging talks, hands-on demos, and relaxing moments by the beach. Participants came from different PsorClubs across the Philippines, including RITM, AHMC, JRRMMC, SLMC, EAMC, SCF, OM, MMC, UERMMC, PGH, USTH, and even PsorPhil members from Facebook. 

The BMW project focuses on three important things — beauty, money, and wellness — all equally important in helping psoriasis patients regain their confidence and sense of self-worth. 

The schedule was packed, but it never felt overwhelming because every activity was done with so much warmth and energy. 

Beauty Talk – by Marj Platilla and Dra. Maf 

Money Talk – by Edwin De Guzman 

Motivational Talk – by John Brian Diamante 

Salad Making Demo – by Chef Arjun Binalla 

Livelihood Trainings and Demos – included soap making, jewelry making, and a loading business workshop 

Meditation Session – led by Kathy Tan 

The event also featured raffles, freebies, and lots of laughter. I didn’t win the raffle draw, but the experience itself was more than enough reward. The best part? The registration fee was only ₱325, made possible through the generosity of sponsors, moderators, and PsorPhil officers. 

Budgeting isn’t easy — it’s a skill every mom (and really, every adult!) should learn so we don’t end up living paycheck to paycheck. During the BMW seminar, Edwin De Guzman shared practical and insightful tips on how to manage our finances better. His talk was simple, realistic, and very doable. Here are some of his best pieces of advice: 

Know exactly where your money goes. Awareness is the first step to taking control of your finances.

Write down all your expenses — unexpected, annual, monthly, weekly, and even discretionary.

Unexpected expenses: home repairs, maintenance, and medical bills 

Annual or quarterly expenses: homeowners’ dues, license renewals, insurance, and property tax

Monthly expenses: bank loans, credit card payments, rent, utilities, internet, and cable 

Weekly expenses: groceries, personal care, child support, and transportation 

Discretionary expenses: books, entertainment, dining out, vacations, travel, and membership fees

Compare it with your income to see where you stand financially. 

Identify which areas you can cut back on or simplify. 

Check for any errors or overlooked items, make corrections, and re-total. 

As Edwin reminded us, “Do not wait for opportunities — create opportunities.”

The ideal amount is equivalent to six months of your net income. 

Set aside at least 10% of your income to give back to God or support causes that matter to you. 

This part of the seminar was one of my favorites because it made me realize that money management isn’t about restriction — it’s about freedom. When you know where your money goes, you feel more confident and secure.

Since it was my first time visiting Morong Star Beach Resort, I was pleasantly surprised at how big and lively the place was. It’s the kind of spot that’s perfect for retreats, company outings, and family getaways. 

The resort has both a beach and a swimming pool, plus tons of activities like a zip line, adventure park, fun carts, and even a live band at night. Sports lovers can enjoy basketball, volleyball, billiards, darts, chess, and table tennis. There’s always something to do, whether you’re in the mood to relax or play.

The food and drinks were okay, not exactly gourmet but satisfying enough after a full day of activities. The rooms were spacious, though the air-conditioning struggled to cool the entire space, especially in the heat of summer. Still, for its affordable rates, it’s a great option for those living nearby.

If you’re from Bataan, this resort is a good choice for a quick beach escape. But since I’m from the South, I might pick somewhere closer next time, like Laiya, Batangas. 

Panibatuhan, Morong, Bataan, Philippines 

Tel: +63 634-6216 Fax: +63 635-0307 

Email: info@morongstarbeach.com 

www.morongstarbeach.com 

Overall, my BMW Summer Retreat experience was something I’ll always treasure. It wasn’t just about beauty or money or wellness — it was about reconnecting with myself and realizing that healing goes beyond the skin. 

I met amazing people, learned new things, and went home feeling refreshed and inspired. Sometimes, all we need is a change of scenery, a few good talks, and the reminder that we are not alone in this journey.