PLDT Enterprise Bolsters AI Adoption in the Workplace With Digital Assistant ‘Ellie’

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PLDT Enterprise is strengthening AI adoption within the PLDT Group with the launch of Ellie, an internal AI-powered digital assistant designed to boost productivity, collaboration, and operational efficiency—enabling faster and more responsive customer engagement.

Short for Enablement and Intelligence Engine, Ellie reflects PLDT Enterprise’s commitment to embedding AI into daily workflows. Accessible via Microsoft Teams, the platform provides teams with quick access to product information, sales materials, and a centralized, searchable knowledge base—helping employees work more efficiently and focus on higher-value activities.

“Championing AI within our own workplace allows us to lead by example as we transform into a TechCo - demonstrating how AI can enhance productivity and deliver more responsive outcomes for our customers” said Blums Pineda, Senior Vice President and Head of Enterprise Business Group and PLDT Group AI Business Lead.

Through Ellie, employees can easily access product bulletins across PLDT Enterprise’s portfolio of solutions - from fixed and wireless to ICT - along with ready-to-use materials such as sales decks and client proposals. The platform also serves as a centralized, searchable knowledge base that enables teams to quickly find the information and stay aligned when engaging clients.

By consolidating key insights into a single interface, Ellie supports faster decision-making, smarter client engagement, and a more future-ready, AI-enabled workplace.

“Ellie reflects how we are approaching AI as a practical tool for everyday work - not just a future concept, but something our teams can use now to work smarter and respond more effectively to client needs,” said Nico Alcoseba, First Vice President and Head of Enterprise Product Management and Innovations at PLDT Enterprise. “As we continue to evolve the platform, our focus is on ensuring it delivers real value across the organization by supporting faster decision-making, better collaboration, and more impactful outcomes.”

Driving Digital Transformation from Within

The introduction of Ellie reflects PLDT Enterprise’s belief that organizations must embrace digital transformation internally to fully deliver its value to customers.

As the larger PLDT organization continues to advance AI initiatives, Ellie contributes to building a future-ready, AI-enabled workplace—one that leverages technology not only to support clients, but also to transform the way its own teams collaborate and innovate.

Learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s solutions, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-ellie-ai-tool-pr.

Thai actress Freen Sarocha glows with vivo V70, highlights AI Magic Weather feature

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Thai actress Freen Sarocha shines in her latest Instagram post, effortlessly blending style and technology as she showcases the vivo V70 in its stunning Golden Hour colorway.

“Glowing a little extra with my vivo V70 in Golden Hour,” Freen shared, perfectly capturing the warm, radiant aesthetic of her photos. The device’s luminous finish, inspired by the hues of sunrise and sunset, complements her natural glow.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DWipVKwkS-P/?igsh=NmZvZTlib2l2cWVv&img_index=3 ]

Freen's fave AI Magic Weather effects

Freen also highlights her favorite AI Magic Weather effects, showcasing how the vivo V70 transforms everyday shots into vibrant, mood-driven visuals.

Clear Sky 

Evening Glow

With Clear Sky, images appear bright, crisp, and full of life, bringing out natural colors and a fresh daytime feel. The scene looks effortlessly vibrant, as if captured under perfect weather conditions.

Meanwhile, Evening Glow adds warm, golden tones that create a more dramatic and intimate atmosphere. The sky takes on sunset-inspired hues, instantly giving portraits a cinematic, golden-hour finish.

“So fun playing around with its advanced AI visuals,” Freen shared, highlighting how easily users can switch between moods with just a tap.

In her post, Freen also gave a special shoutout to her Filipino fans, known as her “Girlfreens,” inviting them to experience the vivo V70 for themselves.

Aside from Golden hour colorway, the vivo V70 Lite is also available in Alpine Gray. Get yours today at vivo stores nationwide or online via the official vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

The Smart Saver’s Guide to Surviving Rising Prices

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At this point, checking prices before buying anything is already a must. One minute you’re grabbing your usual coffee, the next you’re doing mental math like, “Wait… has this always been this expensive?” Between rising gas prices, pricier groceries, and everything in between, it’s getting harder to pretend your budget hasn’t changed.

Now more than ever, it helps to be more intentional with how your money moves—because even small shifts can add up over time.

Here’s what that can look like:

Know your “default gastos”

Everyone has a baseline: your usual transport, food, subscriptions. The tricky part is these are also the ones that quietly go up. Taking a closer look at your weekly spend makes it easier to spot where your money is actually going, and where small adjustments can make a difference.

From there, it’s not just about cutting back, but spending smarter. Using tools that give something back like cashback or fuel discounts can help offset rising costs without needing to sacrifice as much.

For example for fuel expenses, using your Maya Debit Card can get you 5% cashback[1] with a minimum spend of ₱500, capped at ₱300, a small but practical way to ease rising gas costs.

If you’re using the Landers Cashback Everywhere Credit Card, you can earn 1% cashback at Landers Caltex branches, plus up to 5% cashback at Landers Superstore, 2% on dining, and 1% on other transactions.

Even your regular purchases can stretch a little further. With the Maya Black Credit Card, your accumulated Maya Miles can unlock up to ₱1,500 worth of Pricelocq fuel vouchers in the app’s ‘Rewards’ catalogue, an easy way to turn routine spending into something more useful.

Because when it comes to rising prices, the goal isn’t just to spend less, it’s to make every peso go a little further.

If your money’s just sitting there, you’re losing a bit of it

With prices rising, idle money doesn’t stretch as far. That’s why more people are keeping their savings somewhere it can earn in the background, so even when you’re not actively saving more, your money is still doing something. With Maya, the country’s #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform, you can earn up to 15% interest p.a. on your savings, just by using Maya for your everyday purchases.

Have a “just in case” fund, even a small one

Unexpected gastos hit harder now. A slightly higher grocery bill or a sudden fuel hike can throw things off. Setting aside a small buffer gives you a bit of breathing room.

For short-term needs, having access to something like Maya Easy Credit[2] can help you stay on track without dipping into your savings. It offers a revolving credit line of up to ₱50,000, payable in up to 30 days, helping bridge temporary cash flow gaps while giving you clear visibility into your repayment.

Use extra funds strategically

When you do have extra money, even small amounts, it helps to give it a clear purpose instead of letting it sit or disappear into everyday spending. Some are setting aside funds into goal-based savings, like Maya Personal Goals, where you can create up to five savings targets for things like emergencies, travel, or future plans. Each goal earns 4% interest per annum, with rates increasing the more you save, reaching up to 8% p.a. as you build your balance.

For those who prefer a more structured approach, options like Time Deposit Plus offer a way to lock in funds for a set period—whether 3, 6, or 12 months—earning up to 6% p.a. while keeping your savings untouched. With multiple accounts available, it’s a way to stay disciplined while steadily growing your money in the background.

Most of the time, it’s small tweaks like being more aware of your spending, letting your savings earn quietly in the background, and making smarter choices with everyday expenses, that make things feel more manageable.

At a time when everything feels like it’s getting more expensive, being a “smart saver” isn’t about doing less, it’s about being more aware of your finances. And with the right tools working quietly in the background, it becomes a lot easier to stay on track without overhauling your entire life.

To know more, visit maya.ph/MayaFuelCashback2026, maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Approval and offer are subject to credit evaluation. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor. For 24/7 assistance, visit the Help Center in the Maya app or call us from 8 AM to 7 PM daily at +632 8845-7788.

[1] Promo runs until April 30, 2026. For more details, visit maya.ph/MayaFuelCashback2026.

[2] Approval and offer are subject to credit evaluation.

Jollibee launches refreshing and budget-friendly summer treats as heat intensifies

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Summer in the Philippines is not just about beach trips or out-of-town plans. For many, it lives in everyday moments like merienda breaks, barkada hangouts, and quick cool-down stops after a long day.

As the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) signals the start of the warm and dry season, these small rituals become even more meaningful.

To match this shift, Jollibee, the country's no. 1 fastfood chain, has introduced its “Summer Delights,” a selection built around refreshment, affordability, and shareable joy.

“Summer brings out a different kind of energy in Filipinos. It’s more spontaneous, more social, and more driven by small rewards throughout the day,” said Dorothy Ching, vice president for marketing of Jollibee Philippines. “We want to be part of those everyday breaks by offering easy, affordable ways to cool down and enjoy.”

Headlining the menu is the Strawberry Burst Choco Sundae, priced at ₱65, combining chocolate and strawberry with popping boba for a playful twist. Customers can also opt for familiar coolers such as Iced Mocha and Soda Float.

Complementing these are the Fries Snack Combos starting at ₱69, which pair crispy fries with a choice of Choco Sundae, Mini Choco Sundae, or Soda Float. The combinations are available in different sizes to suit both individuals and groups.

The Summer Delights products are now available nationwide in all Jollibee stores for dine-in, takeout, and drive-thru, and can also be ordered for delivery via the Jollibee App, the Jollibee delivery website, GrabFood, and foodpanda.

Craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives? Head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com, and follow us on social media for more JOYful surprises! 

Manila Bulletin’s HATCH Contemporary Visions, Timeless Setting Opens at the Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel

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The Grand Lobby of The Manila Hotel came alive on March 25, 2026, as distinguished guests, artists, members of the media, and content creators gathered for the opening reception of HATCH 2026, the 8th edition of the premier art showcase by the Manila Bulletin in partnership with The Manila Hotel.

With the theme Contemporary Visions, Timeless Setting, HATCH 2026 bridges heritage and modern expression. This year’s edition brings together 12 contemporary and emerging Filipino artists, each invited to interpret the iconic acrylic egg transforming it into a compelling vessel of storytelling, identity, and imagination.

Set against the storied backdrop of The Manila Hotel’s Grand Lobby, the opening reception formally presented this year’s featured artists to the public: Marko Belo, Dino Blanco, Norman Blanco, Rachel Anne Lacaba, Jao Mapa, Raf Page, Tokwa Peňaflorida, JP Pining, Angelo Roxas, Alber Tabanao, Rene Tolentino, and Krishnamurti.

The event was graced by Mr. Basilio C. Yap, chairman of the board of The Manila Hotel; Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, vice chairman of The Manila Hotel and president of the Manila Bulletin; Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. president of The Manila Hotel; Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel; and Leslie Araujo, brand and marketing manager of the Manila Bulletin and project head of HATCH 2026; alongside members of the media and content creators.

Welcome remarks by The Manila Hotel's vice president for sales and marketing Marvin Kim Tan

In his remarks, Marvin Kim Tan shared, “What began as a platform to showcase fresh ideas has grown into a meaningful space that champions creativity and emerging talent. We are proud to continue supporting this initiative and the community it has built over the years. Our sincere thanks to Manila Bulletin for their continued partnership, and to the 12 artists featured this year. When Ernest Hemingway visited in 1941, he remarked, ‘It’s a good story if it’s like The Manila Hotel.’ May this year’s exhibit at our Grand Lobby be another great story to tell.”

Inspirational words from The Manila Hotel president Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr.

Cris 'Krishnamuti' Villanueva is among the 12 artists featured in this year's Hatch exhibit

Jao Mapa joins the selection of featured artists in this year's Hatch exhibit

Holy Week Exodus Gets a Safety Boost as Bell-Kenz Pharma Deploys AEDs to CPR-Trained Frontliners

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As millions of Filipino commuters prepare for the annual Holy Week exodus, transport frontliners—including bus drivers, conductors, and terminal personnel—are now better equipped to respond to medical emergencies, made possible through the strategic partnership between Bell-Kenz Pharma, various key transport stakeholders, and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

Reinforcing its commitment to public safety, Bell-Kenz Pharma ceremonially turned over three Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on March 23, 2026—two units to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and one to the Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation (DOTr-SAICT). This initiative strengthens the emergency response capabilities of frontline personnel during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year.

The turnover builds on the success of the February 24, 2026 Sagip CPR training, “Paghahanda Para sa Oplan Biyaheng Ayos 2026: Sagip CPR,” a collaboration between Bell-Kenz Pharma, DOTr, PITX, and other

The program trained over 800 transport personnel—including drivers, conductors, terminal staff, security personnel, and members of the Philippine Coast Guard—transforming them into capable first responders equipped with life-saving knowledge and skills.

Present at the landmark ceremonial turnover were Rear Admiral Oliver Sy Tanseco of the Philippine Coast Guard and Mr. Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding and Public Affairs Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma. The initiative also provided transport frontliners with hands-on training in Hands-Only CPR, proper AED use, heart health awareness, illness prevention in public transport settings, and emergency response protocols.

Highlighting the importance of sustained preparedness, Mr. Patrick Larraga of Bell-Kenz Pharma shared:

“This initiative is a continuation of the comprehensive training we conducted last February. Today, we are here to ensure the strategic placement of AEDs, increasing the chance of successfully reviving anyone who experiences a cardiac emergency in our transport system.”

On behalf of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez and Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, Rear Admiral Tanseco expressed appreciation for the partnership:

“The Philippine Coast Guard has always served with heart, and we are deeply grateful to Bell-Kenz Pharma for strengthening our frontline capabilities through these life-saving devices. We have enhanced pre-departure inspections because lives matter and every second counts.”

This coordinated effort brought together key stakeholders—including DOTr-SAICT, PITX, EDSA Bus Carousel Consortia, One Ayala, and Bell-Kenz Pharma—all united in advancing a safer, more resilient, and people-centered transport system.

“With flagship programs like Sagip CPR, Bell-Kenz Pharma is committed to empowering Filipinos with vital life-saving skills and tools, championing proactive healthcare at every step,” said Patrick Larraga.

By bridging training with action, the company reinforces its role as a committed Kaagapay in building a safer, healthier, and more responsive nation—ready to act decisively in medical emergencies.

For more information about Sagip CPR advocacy, visit www.bell-kenz.net.

SM strengthens stakeholder communication through online platform

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SM Investments Corporation, the parent company of the SM group, is scaling up its stakeholder engagement efforts through SM In Focus, its online platform which has over 137,000 subscribers and generated over 2.5 million views since its launch in late 2024.

The milestone reflects SM’s broader push to strengthen transparency and accessibility in communicating business performance, innovation, and value creation across its integrated ecosystem in retail, property, and banking.

The platform is part of SM’s evolving approach to stakeholder communication, leveraging online channels to provide more timely, structured, and relevant insights on its operations and impact.

“SM In Focus enhances our ability to communicate the Group’s activities and outcomes in a more accessible and consistent manner,” said Rico Hizon, host and creator of SM in Focus.

Beyond external engagement, the initiative also supports internal alignment by enabling participation from across the organization. Contributors from various business units provide on-the-ground perspectives, reinforcing a more coordinated and enterprise-wide approach to communication.

“By engaging contributors across the Group, the platform strengthens collaboration and improves how we communicate our strategy and impact,” said Elizabeth Anne “Lizanne” Uychaco, Executive Vice President, Group Diversity Officer of SM Investments, and Executive Producer of SM In Focus.

To date, the platform has produced over 440 videos and accumulated more than 14,000 watch hours, indicating sustained audience engagement.

As SM continues to expand its operations, SM In Focus supports a more integrated and data-driven communication strategy, bridging internal insights with external engagement and enabling clearer articulation of the Group’s long-term value creation.

SM In Focus Host and Creator Rico Hizon shares the Youtube Silver Play Button for reaching an important 100,000 milestone with SM Investments Corporation Executive Vice President, Group Diversity Officer and SM in Focus Executive Producer Lizanne Uychaco.

Infinix Drives Digital Learning Forward as Tablet Sponsor for Universidad de Manila

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In a meaningful step toward advancing digital education in the Philippines, Infinix donated its latest XPAD 30E tablets to Universidad de Manila on March 25, 2026. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to empowering students and enhancing access to modern learning tools.

The turnover ceremony brought together key representatives from both organizations, including the University President of Universidad de Manila, Dr. Felima C. Tria, and Infinix Marketing Manager Charisma Buan. The formal handover of the tablets served as a powerful symbol of a shared vision to empower students through technology and open new pathways for learning.

From left to right: Atty. Rodolfo V. Castillo Jr., VP for Administration; Dr. Nenita Fajardo Buan, Dean of the Institute of Graduate and Professional Studies; Nancy J. Tejada, VP for Student Success and Support Services; Atty. Christian Patrick Labajoy, Head of Student Discipline and University Legal Counsel; Dr. Ma. Felma C. Tria, University President; Charisma Buan, Infinix Marketing Manager; Ms. Laarnie Hernandez, Staff, Office of the President; Ms. Ruthemia S. Albener, Head of the Supply Office; Dr. Rosalie M. Catu, Head of Student Activities and Organizations; and Mr. Jeffrey F. Litan, VP for Comptrollership.

This donation represents more than just a provision of devices; it marks the beginning of a partnership dedicated to building a more inclusive and technology-driven learning environment for Filipino students. “In this digital era, learning should never be limited by access. Infinix believes in supporting every Filipino student's journey by offering technology that makes digital learning more accessible and more powerful. And what better way to do that than by partnering with the leaders of tomorrow — UDM's top performing student leaders who are already setting the standard for their peers,” shared Buan.

Dr. Ma. Felma C. Tria, University President, receives the XPAD 30E tablet from Charisma Buan, Infinix Marketing Manager, during the official turnover ceremony.

The XPAD 30E is recognized as the first dedicated education tablet in the Philippines, purpose-built to support both academic and everyday learning. It offers access to over 120,000 premium learning resources, including curated, textbook-aligned courses and exercises, all available for free. With its AI Tutor On Tap, students can instantly get help with assignments and questions, making learning more interactive and efficient. The device also features an 11-inch FHD+ eye-care display, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience for extended study sessions.

Dr. Felima C. Tria expressed appreciation for the initiative, stating,

“Universidad de Manila is steadily moving toward a more digital approach in academics, and this partnership with Infinix aligns perfectly with that vision. The units will be entrusted to our top performing student leaders, individuals who we believe will make the most of every tool they are given. We are deeply grateful to Infinix for seeing the potential in our students and for choosing to invest in their growth in such a meaningful way.”

Top row (from left to right): Nancy J. Tejada, VP for Student Success and Support Services; Atty. Rodolfo V. Castillo Jr., VP for Administration; Atty. Christian Patrick Labajoy, Head of Student Discipline and University Legal Counsel; and Mr. Jeffrey F. Litan, VP for Comptrollership.

Bottom row (from left to right): Charisma Buan, Infinix Marketing Manager; and Dr. Ma. Felma C. Tria, University President.

Through this initiative, Infinix continues to demonstrate its commitment to social responsibility, leveraging innovation not just to create products, but to create opportunities and empower the next generation of learners.

Learn more about the Infinix XPAD 30E and discover how it can transform everyday learning with smarter tools and accessible resources. Get yours today through the official Infinix website, or shop conveniently on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop to start your journey toward a more empowered and connected learning experience.

DTI to Mount 2026 National Food Fair, Expanding Market Opportunities for Filipino MSMEs

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The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will mount the 2026 DTI–Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair (NFF) from April 8 to 12 at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall. The event will feature over 320 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from across the country engaged in food manufacturing, processing, and related enterprises.

As the country’s premier platform for Filipino food products, the NFF will showcase a wide range of regional flavors and culinary innovations from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. It continues to serve as a strategic venue for enterprise development and market expansion.

Among the highlights are food concepts developed by former Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who have transitioned into entrepreneurship. These enterprises demonstrate the potential of business development to generate sustainable livelihood opportunities in the Philippines.

This year’s Fair will highlight the coconut industry, one of the country’s priority agricultural sectors. In line with the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP), participating enterprises will showcase the sector’s versatility and export potential.

A dedicated Halal segment will feature certified and Halal-ready products. This initiative supports DTI’s efforts to expand the Philippines’ participation in the global Halal market through improved certification, standards compliance, and product development.

The DTI Business Connect Lounge will facilitate business matching between MSMEs and institutional buyers, including distributors and retailers. It aims to translate business discussions into supply agreements and long-term partnerships.

The Fair is open to the public, with free admission. Visitors may access product sampling, live demonstrations, and interactive activities. Buyers will have access to a curated pool of market-ready enterprises. MSMEs will benefit from expanded market linkages and business opportunities.

In line with the Bagong Pilipinas agenda, the National Food Fair underscores the resilience, innovation, and global competitiveness of Filipino MSMEs.

Get It While It’s Hot! Kick Off Summer with OPPO’s 4.4 Sale

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Enjoy exclusive deals, vouchers, and limited-time freebies that await

As the summer season starts to pick up, OPPO is rolling out its 4.4 Sale, giving shoppers a timely reason to upgrade their devices just in time for travel, content creation, or simply staying connected on the go. Get a jumpstart on upgrading your summer tech essentials starting March 31 at 8:00 PM until April 6, available across OPPO’s official stores on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok, and the OPPO Online Store.

For those who have been holding off and  just waiting for the right moment, now is the right time to elevate your tech game!

Unlock bigger savings for your summer upgrade

Cool down on spending with all-day vouchers available on a wide range of OPPO devices. Discounts go up to ₱400 off on select entry-level models like the OPPO A5x, around ₱500 off on devices such as the OPPO A5i Pro and OPPO Reno12 F, and ₱1,000 off on multiple models including the OPPO A5, A6x, A6t, and OPPO Reno15 Series 5G. Even bigger price cuts of ₱2,000 to ₱5,000 off are available on select OPPO Reno models and OPPO Find devices, with many vouchers requiring no minimum spend.

Lazada shoppers can also score exclusive 4.4 vouchers from March 31, 8 PM to 11:59 PM, with discounts of up to ₱2,500 off on select units.

For those easing into bigger purchases, OPPO is also making it easier to pay through SPayLater, with installment plans of up to six months on select devices.

Get more value with rewards and useful freebies

From April 1 to 6, customers also get a chance to win one of four Casio watches in a raffle, adding an extra thrill to the shopping experience. Raffle entries run from March 31, 8 PM to April 6 on Shopee and TikTok, and until April 8 on Lazada.

Meanwhile, select purchases come bundled with freebies, including:

●     A Tango Jet 10,000 mAh Powerbank (Black) for OPPO Reno15 Series 5G buyers (available March 31, 8 PM to April 6 on Shopee and TikTok, and until April 8 on Lazada)

●     A free OPPO Pad SE case for those picking up the OPPO Pad SE

Make the most of the season with OPPO’s 4.4 Sale

With bigger discounts, flexible payment options, and bonus freebies in the mix, OPPO’s 4.4 Sale gives shoppers more ways to upgrade for summer while keeping spending in check.

To know more about OPPO’s 4.4 Sale,visit OPPO Philippines’ official website at www.oppo.com/ph/ or OPPO Philippines’ official social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.

Life in Manila captured with vivo X300 Pro

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 Manila-based multi-award-winning photographer Jamir Lyndon Lumbao is capturing everyday life with striking clarity, powered by vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit.

By profession, Lumbao works in the financial sector, but his creative journey began in 2014 when a friend invited him to join a photography group. What started as a simple introduction soon grew into a passion for street photograph - one that continues to shape how he sees the world.

“Street photography challenges me to capture candid moments, raw emotions, and real-life situations. It allows me to tell stories through unplanned and natural scenes, which I find both exciting and meaningful,” he said.

Inspired by renowned photographers and local creatives, Lumbao developed a style that blends artistic expression with technical precision. His work focuses on light and shadows, reflections, and telephoto compositions, often transforming everyday Manila scenes into images with an abstract and surreal mood.

“I would describe my photography style as creative and expressive, influenced by my background in art,” he said.

This vision is elevated by the Telephoto King vivo X300 Pro, powered by a 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera. Built for capturing distant subjects with striking clarity and depth, the device has earned global recognition, including a top score in DxOMark’s telephoto evaluation.

For Lumbao, the difference is clear when shooting in real-world city conditions.

“My experience with the vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit in real-world city shooting was excellent. It’s a clear upgrade from my X100, especially for capturing distant subjects, and the telephoto extender makes it incredibly easy to get sharp, detailed shots from far away,” he shared.

The vivo X300 Pro supports 85mm optical zoom and, when paired with the vivo ZEISS 2.35x Telephoto Extender, expands its reach up to 5400mm. Engineered with advanced optics, the extender enhances clarity, minimizes distortion, and enables photographers to capture scenes that would otherwise be out of reach.

Complementing this capability is the vivo PGYTECH Imaging Grip Kit, designed to provide better control, comfort, and endurance for creators on the move.

“The standout features for me were definitely the grip and the lens, and together they completely transform the shooting experience. The grip feels incredibly comfortable and secure in hand, making long shooting sessions much easier, and the physical controls for exposure compensation, zoom, and video give you a more precise, camera-like feel that makes capturing moments quicker and more intuitive,” Lumbao shared.

Beyond ergonomics, the lens itself delivers a noticeable leap in image quality, especially for distant subjects.

“What really takes it to the next level, though, is the lens. It delivers stunning clarity and detail, especially when shooting distant subjects, allowing you to capture scenes that would normally be out of reach. The added reach, combined with sharp image quality and excellent depth, makes every shot look more professional,” Lumbao said.

One of Lumbao’s most memorable moments highlights the power of this setup. While photographing a sunset, he noticed a subject from afar and quickly adjusted his position to frame the scene.

He shared, “This was one of my most memorable shots. I was photographing the sunset when I noticed a subject on the other side. I quickly moved to the spot and carefully aligned the subject inside the sun. The light was changing fast, and I thought I might miss the moment since the sun was setting so quickly.”

With the telephoto extender, he was able to capture the shot with precision and clarity.

“Thanks to the tele extender on the vivo X300 Pro, I was able to zoom in from a distance and frame the shot perfectly without losing detail. It gave me the reach and clarity I needed to capture this precise moment, turning it into a truly special and unforgettable image,” he added.

Through Lumbao’s work, the vivo X300 Pro Photographer Kit demonstrates how advanced mobile imaging can empower creators to capture stories as they unfold, combining reach, precision, and creative freedom in a single device.

As Manila continues to move in rhythm with light, life, and emotion, tools like the vivo X300 Pro are helping photographers turn everyday moments into lasting visual stories.

The vivo X300 Series is available in concept stores nationwide and online via the vivo e-store (X300 and X300 Pro), Lazada, and Shopee at a starting price of Php 68,999.

Samsung Powers ‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’’ with Galaxy

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With Galaxy S26 Ultra capturing the concert experience, Samsung invites the world attending BTS’s upcoming world tour to be fully immersed in the show

SEOUL, Korea – – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced a global partnership with ‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG,’’ unveiling a new concert experience powered by Galaxy mobile technology that brings artists and the audience closer together.

BTS and ARMY have built a cultural movement that brings everyone together to celebrate self-expression and connection through music. This resulted in a global impact that fosters authentic shared experiences — values that resonate deeply with Samsung’s Galaxy brand philosophy. By harnessing the power of music and technology, Samsung and the ‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’’ are empowering people to capture special moments and share them with the world.

“Samsung believes that technology enriches everyday experiences,” said Stephanie Choi, EVP and Head of the Mobile Marketing Center, Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics. “Through this collaboration, Galaxy will serve as a bridge connecting artists and the audience, enabling people to experience concert moments more meaningfully and preserve and share those memories for longer.”

Building on Galaxy’s vision of meaningful, connected experiences, Samsung is reimagining the traditional concert viewing experience by enabling the audience to emotionally engage with artists and their performances in more immersive ways. In particular, the Galaxy S26 Ultra camera captures memorable moments from live performances, allowing the audience around the world to relive and share the experience, bringing the energy and emotion of the concert into their everyday lives.

“Fans are at the heart of everything we do, shaping our music and journey together with us,” said Lee Jae-sang, CEO of HYBE. “Through this partnership with Samsung Electronics, we hope fans can experience concerts more vividly and create lasting memories.”

‘BTS WORLD TOUR ‘ARIRANG’’ will begin in Goyang, South Korea, and continue in major cities around the world through 2027. As part of the world tour, an exclusive BTS THE CITY ARIRANG SEOUL is taking place in Seoul from March 20 to April 19, including a range of Galaxy-powered immersive experiences to major landmarks across the city.

Fans can explore the Galaxy S26 series through interactive activities, including a stamp rally at Samsung’s Gangnam store and creating self-made stickers using the Galaxy AI-powered Creative Studio. Participants who complete the activities are eligible to receive prizes, including limited-edition ‘BTS THE CITY ARIRANG SEOUL’ merchandise.

Following Seoul, ‘BTS THE CITY’ will expand to other tour stops. Samsung will take part in the entire ’BTS THE CITY’ journey, driving innovation that encourages fans to express themselves, capture meaningful moments and expand everyday experiences with Galaxy.

Zsiga comes alive with Flip Card on vivo V70

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For fans of POP MART and its free-spirited icon Zsiga, self-expression has always been part of the charm. Now, that same bold personality takes on a new digital life with the vivo V70, turning your lock screen into a canvas that moves with you.

Say hello to the vivo V70 x POP MART Zsiga Exclusive Flip Card, a feature designed to transform everyday phone use into something playful and personal. Powered by the device’s gyroscope, the Flip Card responds to your every tilt, shifting visuals in real time as if your screen has a personality of its own.

Tilt your phone and watch Zsiga come alive. Each angle reveals a new expression, moment, and story. It is not just a lock screen. It is an experience that feels dynamic, immersive, and uniquely yours.

How to access the Zsiga Flip Card

Ready to bring Zsiga to your screen? Here is how to unlock the experience:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap 'Home screen, lock screen and wallpaper'
3. Select 'Themes'
4. Choose 'Flip cards

https://www.tiktok.com/@vivo_philippines/video/7619631814331698449]

In just a few taps, your phone transforms into a living, moving showcase of personality.

Try this on your portrait powered by changing weather

Want your lock screen to feel alive from sunrise to twilight? Capture your portrait using the AI Magic Weather feature, then apply all four effects: Morning Glow, Clear Sky, Evening Glow, and Twilight. Each version becomes a different moment of you.

Upload all four portraits under Gallery Effect in Flip Cards, then arrange them in your preferred sequence by simply holding and dragging each image. Finally, go to Transition and choose how the visuals shift as you tilt your phone.

The result is a Flip Card that moves like time itself. Your face, mood, and story, flowing from day to night with a single tilt.

The vivo V70 x POP MART Zsiga Flip Card brings together art, technology, and individuality in one seamless experience. It feels playful yet meaningful, simple yet impactful, and serves as a reminder that even the smallest interactions can spark joy.

For Zsiga fans and anyone who loves standing out, this is a feature that will make a statement.

If you do not have the vivo V70 yet, now is the perfect time to make it yours. Available for as low as Php 31,999, you can get it at vivo stores nationwide or online via the vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. Tilt it. Flip it. Express it your way with the vivo V70

Samsung Brings AirDrop Support to Quick Share with Galaxy S26 Series

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Samsung is introducing AirDrop support to the Galaxy S26 series, making it easier for users to share content between devices using Quick Share.

The feature will begin rolling out from March 231, starting in Korea and expanding to more regions including Europe, Hong Kong, Japan, Latin America, North America, Southeast Asia and Taiwan. AirDrop support will initially be available on the Galaxy S26 series, with expansion to additional devices to be announced at a later date.

1 Availability and timing may vary by market.