Tapuy Lees: The New Anti-Aging Superfood? Filipino Researchers Unlock Longevity Potential

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

For centuries, tapuy—Philippine rice wine—has been a traditional part of celebrations and rituals. But a new discovery by Filipino researchers suggests that what was once considered waste in the tapuy-making process could be a key to longevity and better health. Scientists from Ateneo de Manila University and the University of the Philippines have found that tapuy lees, the solid residues left after fermentation, contain powerful anti-aging compounds and antioxidants that could revolutionize health food and wellness industries.

Unlocking the Power of Tapuy Lees

The research, led by Edward Kevin B. Bragais and Paul Mark B. Medina, focused on optimizing the fermentation process by experimenting with different microbial starter cultures, known as bubod. This seemingly simple adjustment had profound effects on the composition of tapuy lees, transforming them into a nutrient-rich byproduct with significant medical and nutritional benefits.

What Makes Tapuy Lees Special?

Tapuy lees are composed of rice residues, yeast, and other microbial byproducts. Through optimization, researchers found that they contain high concentrations of polyphenols, compounds known for their ability to combat:

Oxidative stress

Inflammation

Cellular damage

These properties make polyphenols essential in fighting age-related diseases and promoting overall health.

Scientific Evidence: A Step Towards Longevity

In laboratory tests, animals fed with extracts from optimized tapuy lees showed remarkable results:

Increased lifespan

Improved motility and reproductive health

Higher levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), a crucial enzyme for cell protection

These findings indicate that tapuy lees could potentially slow aging and improve quality of life by protecting the body from free radicals and other harmful agents that accelerate aging.

A Sustainable Health Innovation

The study not only highlights the potential health benefits of tapuy lees but also introduces an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach to food production. Since lees were previously discarded as waste, repurposing them into a superfood aligns with global efforts to reduce food waste and promote sustainability.

Next Steps: From Lab to Market

While the initial findings are promising, researchers emphasize that clinical trials in humans are necessary before tapuy lees can be widely marketed as a health supplement. If confirmed, this could lead to:

The development of anti-aging supplements derived from tapuy lees

New functional food products incorporating tapuy extracts

The rise of Philippine indigenous food innovations in the global wellness market

A Breakthrough for Philippine Science

This research positions the Philippines as a leader in innovative food technology, merging tradition with modern science. The potential commercialization of tapuy lees could benefit local rice wine producers, providing them with new business opportunities while promoting Filipino culture worldwide.

Conclusion: The Future of Tapuy as a Superfood

What was once considered a simple byproduct of rice wine fermentation now holds the potential to redefine health and longevity. As scientists continue to explore its benefits, tapuy lees may soon be recognized as a game-changing superfood—one that could place the Philippines at the forefront of global wellness trends.

With continued research, tapuy lees could soon be a staple in the health industry—turning a centuries-old tradition into a modern solution for aging and longevity.

PHLPost’s Bold Move for Teachers Shocks the Nation – You Won’t Believe What They Did!

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In a heartfelt acknowledgment of its unwavering support for educators, the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) was honored by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Metrobank Foundation for its significant contributions to the 2024 National Teachers' Month (NTM) celebrations. This commendation underscores PHLPost's dedication to honoring educators and elevating the teaching profession in the Philippines.

The recognition was presented to Jocelyn Edralin Cacho, Executive Assistant at the Office of the Postmaster General, by DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara, Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto M. Sobrepeña, and Metrobank Foundation Executive Vice President Philip Francisco U. Dy on March 11 in Makati City. Ms. Cacho expressed her gratitude, stating, "It is truly an honor to receive this recognition, as it affirms that PHLPost is making meaningful contributions to honoring teachers through its education-focused initiatives." 

National Teachers' Month, observed from September 5 to October 5, is a collaborative movement led by the Metrobank Foundation, Inc., DepEd, and various multi-sectoral groups. The initiative aims to celebrate Filipino teachers and educators for their invaluable contributions to shaping the nation's future, encapsulated through the "My Teacher, My Hero" campaign. The essence of the NTM celebrations lies in encouraging nationwide participation by extending the Teacher's Day festivities beyond school campuses and into the broader public sphere. 

In line with its commitment to honoring educators, PHLPost released commemorative stamps during the 2024 NTM celebrations. On September 5, PHLPost, represented by Northwest Luzon Area Director Jun Malacapo, presented the 2024 National Teachers' Month commemorative stamp frame to DepEd officials during the kick-off ceremonies in Candon City, Ilocos Sur. Postmaster General Luis D. Carlos highlighted the significance of these stamps, stating, "Through the NTM Commemorative Stamps, we pay tribute to our beloved teachers who are vital in molding the future of the Filipino youth." 

Beyond commemorative stamps, PHLPost, in collaboration with DepEd, has been instrumental in promoting literacy and the art of letter writing among the youth. The National Letter Writing Competition, a joint initiative, encourages students to express their thoughts and creativity through handwritten letters. This competition not only hones their writing skills but also instills in them the value of traditional forms of communication. 

Additionally, PHLPost has announced the 54th Universal Postal Union (UPU) International Letter Writing Competition for Young People. The 2025 competition invites participants aged 9 to 15 to write letters on the theme: "Imagine you are the ocean. Write a letter to someone explaining why and how they should take good care of you." This theme encourages young minds to reflect on environmental conservation and express their thoughts creatively. The winning piece will represent the Philippines in the worldwide competition to be held in Berne, Switzerland. 

Through these initiatives, PHLPost continues to play a pivotal role in promoting education, literacy, and environmental awareness among the youth, while honoring the invaluable contributions of educators nationwide.

BEYOND SUSTAINNOVATION BEGINS AT WORLDBEX 2025

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For 28 years, WORLDBEX has been redefining excellence, championing growth, and driving innovation in the construction and design industry. WORLDBEX 2025 embraces the theme "Beyond Sustainnovation," combining sustainability and innovation to shape the future of construction and design. This year’s showcase will feature exhibitors, partners, and interior design vignettes that elevate green solutions to the next level. Aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), WORLDBEX remains committed to driving positive change through sustainable practices and groundbreaking ideas.

The Opening Ceremony on March 13, 2025, was hosted by the dynamic Issa Litton, whose energy and optimism set the tone for an exciting event. Mr. Joseph Ang, Founding Chairman of WSI, delivered an inspiring speech, warmly welcoming VIPs, partners, exhibitors, and visitors.

Distinguished guests graced the ceremony, including Hon. Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano of Pasay City, represented by Ms. Angelica Roa-Yu, Executive Assistant V for Social Services. Hon. Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco of the Department of Tourism was represented by Usec. Shahlimar Hofer Tamayo. Additionally, Mr. Ernie Lopez and Ms. Michelle Arville-Lopez attended the event for the WORLDBEX 2025 turnover of a donation to the ABS-CBN Foundation Inc., with Mr. Lopez expressed his gratitude in a heartfelt speech.

The event was graced by the following honorable guests for the official ribbon cutting ceremony of WORLDBEX 2025 at World Trade Center - Hon. Secretary Frederick Go, Secretary Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs (represented by Usec. Joee Guilas); Hon. Secretary Cristina Aldeguer - Roque, Secretary for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI); Hon. Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, Secretary for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH); Dr. Rico J. Cabangon, Director IV for the Department of Science and Technology (DOST - Forest Products Research and Development Institute); Dr. Loreto Novicio, Chief Science Research Specialist for the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-FPRDI’s Technology Innovation Division); and Asec. Grace Falgui Baluyan, Assistant Secretary for the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI Regional Operations Group). 

Meanwhile at SMX Convention Center, Ms. Levi Ang delivered her welcoming remarks to WORLDBEX 2025 guests and partners and followed by a recorded speech by Senator Mark Villar. The ribbon-cutting ceremony at SMX Convention was honored by the presence of Mr. Joseph Ang, Ms. Levi Ang (Co-Founder Chair), Ms. Jill Aithnie Ang (Managing Director), Arch. Flameno Jr. (Executive Director), along with Board Directors Mr. Rene Ramos and Ms. Tessie Roque. The event was further graced by Worldbex Partner Associations, Government Partners, and Likha Partners, including Mr. Francis Libiran and representatives from various sponsors.

This year's Opening Ceremony at the World Trade Center and SMX Convention Center powerfully captured the theme of Beyond Sustainnovation through the symbolic use of Bamboo, Banga, Soil, and Water during the official ribbon-cutting of WORLDBEX 2025. These elements reflect WORLDBEX’s core values of fostering a greener future, symbolizing renewal, adaptability, and the continuous flow of innovation. It marks a commitment to sustainability and progress, reinforcing WORLDBEX’s role in shaping the future of construction and design.

WORLDBEX 2025 officially opens today, running until March 16, 2025, from 10 AM to 7 PM at the World Trade Center Metro Manila and SMX Convention Center Manila. WSI is thrilled to bring back its flagship event, showcasing the future of the construction and design industry through groundbreaking innovations and a strong focus on sustainability. Don’t miss the chance to experience the next era of construction—go beyond sustainnovation and register now for free at worldbex.com. For more updates, visit the official WORLDBEX Facebook page at facebook.com/worldbex. WORLDBEX 2025 is proudly organized by Worldbex Services International.