Scottie Thompson, Scotty Pippen Jr. unite at vivo x NBA event

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Two accomplished point guards from different sides of the basketball world came together as special guests at the vivo x NBA Meet & Greet, where PBA star Scottie Thompson joined Memphis Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. on July 30 at vivo Concept Store, SM Megamall, sharing insights on leadership, perseverance, and life on and off the court.

The event carried special personal significance for Thompson, who revealed that he was named after Pippen Jr.'s father, six-time NBA champion Scottie Pippen, because of his own father's admiration for the Chicago Bulls legend.

"It's truly an honor to meet Scotty. I'm sure my dad would be very proud," Thompson shared during his onstage conversation with host KC Montero, describing the encounter as a full-circle moment.

The admiration was mutual. When asked about meeting Thompson during his visit to the Philippines, Pippen Jr. said he was equally amazed by the story behind the PBA star's name.

"Definitely cool. He's a cool dude and a super accomplished player. Just hearing all the accolades he's achieved is surreal. It's also crazy that he was named after my dad and now, years later, we're both here together. It's really cool to meet someone like that," Pippen Jr. shared.

Scotty Pippen Jr. and Scottie Thompson with KC Montero (host) during the Q&A

The exclusive gathering, held at the vivo Concept Store in SM Megamall on July 30, gave fans a rare opportunity to interact with two elite point guards whose basketball journeys have inspired countless athletes in their respective leagues.

Two point guards, one passion

Throughout the afternoon, Thompson and Pippen Jr. reflected on the experiences that shaped their careers and the values that continue to guide them as leaders on the court.

Pippen Jr. looked back on the perseverance that helped him reach the NBA, beginning with Vanderbilt University before joining the Los Angeles Lakers in 2022 as a two-way player then working his way through the NBA G League and eventually earning a spot with the Memphis Grizzlies.

"The main thing for me is confidence. In college, I was the best player on my team, but when I got to the NBA, you kind of start at the bottom. Just working hard every day, instilling confidence in yourself, knowing you belong, and believing you should be there really helped me," Pippen Jr. shared.

Thompson, meanwhile, shared how years of hard work transformed him from a collegiate standout into a PBA Most Valuable Player, multiple-time champion, and one of the country's premier floor generals.

"For me, I just keep pushing myself every single day. I keep working hard. It shows in my game because what I do in practice is the same thing I bring onto the court," Thompson said.

Although their journeys unfolded in different leagues and basketball cultures, both stars shared the same message: success comes from hard work, perseverance, discipline, and putting the team above yourself.

The conversation also gave fans a glimpse into what it takes to become an elite point guard. While their paths have been different, both emphasized that leadership, making the right decisions under pressure, and helping teammates succeed are qualities that transcend any league or level of competition.

Connecting with Filipino fans

Fans became part of the conversation during an interactive Q&A session, where they asked both athletes about basketball, their personal interests, and the lessons they've learned throughout their careers.

When asked by a fan who had the biggest influence on his basketball journey, Pippen Jr. immediately credited his father.

"My biggest influence on my basketball journey is my dad. Growing up with someone who played in the NBA and has so much knowledge of the game, he was always pouring into me, giving me advice and tips that I still use to this day," Pippen Jr. shared.

Thompson also gave fans a glimpse of the person behind the athlete. When asked what might surprise people about him, the PBA star answered with a smile: "I'm a family man."

The simple yet heartfelt response drew smiles from the audience and reminded fans that, beyond his accomplishments on the court, Thompson takes the greatest pride in being a family-oriented person.

Both players also expressed their appreciation for Filipino basketball fans, praising the country's unmatched passion for the sport and the energy that filled the venue throughout the afternoon.

Missed the live event? You can still relive the excitement by watching the livestream, captured using the vivo X300 Ultra, here: https://www.facebook.com/vivo.philippines/videos/2265009864249930

Every basketball moment captured using vivo X300 Ultra

From heartfelt conversations to unforgettable fan interactions, every highlight of the event was captured with the vivo X300 Ultra.

Built for sports, concerts, and fast-paced moments, the vivo X300 Ultra features Triple ZEISS Master Lenses paired with ZEISS Telephoto Extenders capable of reaching up to 400mm, allowing users to capture crisp details even from the upper bowl of an arena.

Scotty Pippen Jr. using the vivo X300 Ultra during the group photo

Whether capturing the intensity of live sports or once-in-a-lifetime moments with basketball icons, the vivo X300 Ultra delivers flagship imaging that preserves every detail with remarkable clarity.

More than just a fan event, the vivo x NBA Meet & Greet celebrated basketball's unique ability to connect generations, cultures, and communities.

For Scottie Thompson, it was personally a full-circle moment. For Scotty Pippen Jr., it was an opportunity to witness firsthand the passion of Filipino basketball fans. For everyone in attendance, it was a rare experience that turned admiration into unforgettable memories.

Scotty Thompson using the vivo X300 Ultra during the group photo

By creating experiences that bring fans closer to the athletes they admire, vivo Philippines continues to go beyond smartphone innovation—building meaningful moments through the game of basketball.

Whether you're cheering from the arena or capturing unforgettable moments with your favorite stars, the vivo X300 Ultra delivers flagship imaging powered by ZEISS. It is available for Php 109,999 at vivo concept stores nationwide and the vivo e-store.

Bea Alonzo confirms wedding to Vincent Co with nuptial photos

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Actress Bea Alonzo and businessman Vincent Co tied the knot in a private civil wedding at Makati City Hall on Monday, July 13, with Makati City Mayor Nancy Binay officiating the wedding.

Mayor Nancy Binay and showbiz columnist and talent manager Ogie Diaz confirmed on social media late Tuesday, July 14.

Bea and Vincent paint a picture of happy newlyweds in a series of photos taken during their civil wedding uploaded by the actress (Bea) on her Instagram on Wednesday afternoon.

“Home,” Bea described of her black-and-white Instagram carousel.

The photo collection shows her wearing her wedding ring, their wedding kiss hidden behind her bouquet of flowers, a “Just Married” cake, and them standing in front of the office of Makati Mayor Nancy Binay.

Mayor Nancy Binay confirmed on social media late Tuesday, July 14. Mayor Nancy shares a photo of Bea and Vincent after confirming that she officiated their civil wedding on Monday, July 13. (Photo from Mayor Nancy Binay/Facebook)

Ogie Diaz also claimed on his online program that only a handful of guests attended the couple's wedding.

Bea and Vincent Co have exchanged vows, months after speculation surrounded their postponed wedding in Spain. The secret wedding comes after weeks of intense speculation over the fate of the couple’s relationship following the postponement of their highly anticipated Spain ceremony.

Congratulations and best wishes Actress Bea Alonzo and Puregold Price Club president Vincent Co. 

Savings That Slap: Julia Barretto & Maris Racal on What It Feels Like to Save with Maya

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Saving money usually feels quiet and delayed. You set aside funds and trust that it’ll matter someday. But when nothing feels different right away, it’s easy to forget or stop altogether.

That’s exactly what Maya, the #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform in the Philippines, is calling out in its latest video starring Julia Barretto and Maris Racal. It’s a wake-up call for Filipinos: your savings can reward you daily — if you put it where it earns.

The Filipino Dream: ‘Masampal ng Pera”

Let’s be real: every Filipino has joked about it at least once. “Sana masampal ng pera.” Not out of drama, but out of desire. Because money hitting you means money finally showing up.

Maya taps into that very Filipino fantasy and brings it to life through a playful sampalan. In the video, Julia and Maris literally slap each other with money, turning a familiar pop-culture moment into a metaphor for what daily interest feels like when your savings is actually working.

Watch what went down in the sampalan showdown of Maris and Julia:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgljNn07qI4]

A ‘Sampal’ You’ll Actually Want Every Day

Instead of progress you only notice months later, Maya Savings makes growth immediate. With interest credited daily, your money doesn’t just sit there, it moves consistently and visibly.

That’s the real sampal. Not the painful kind, but the moment you realize your balance is growing day after day. Saving stops feeling passive and starts feeling rewarding, because something is actually happening.

Saving That Hits Different

Julia and Maris show that saving doesn’t have to feel heavy, complicated, or purely long-term. It can be fun, rewarding, and culturally familiar, the kind of saving that slaps, literally and figuratively.

With Maya Savings, users can earn up to 15% interest per annum, credited daily. That daily payout turns saving from something you wait on into something you feel, as your balance grows every day just by using Maya for your everyday transactions.

Once saving feels rewarding, it’s easier to keep going. And for today’s savers, waiting for “someday” isn’t motivating anymore. They want results they can see — and feel — today.

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. 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.

vivo V60 zooms in on OPM greatness at FMA 2025

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A night that defied Filipino music deserved a camera that could capture it in all its glory. At the Filipino Music Awards (FMA) 2025, held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, the vivo V60’s 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera brought fans closer to the stage, turning every performance, pose, and emotion into a masterpiece.

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Experience the biggest night in Filipino music through the lens of the vivo V60

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The inaugural FMA 2025 was a grand celebration of artistry and culture. The event gathered over 500 artists, industry guests, and thousands of fans, all united to honor the diverse sounds shaping today’s OPM scene, from pop and R&B to hip-hop and rock.

As a co-presenter, vivo ensured that every electrifying moment of this historic night was captured with professional-grade clarity through the vivo V60, co-engineered with ZEISS.

Capturing iconic moments onstage

From inspiring acceptance speeches to breathtaking performances, the vivo V60's 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera proved its power. Its 10x Telephoto Stage Portrait captured every expression and spotlight moment with stunning detail.

 

The V60 also captured high-energy performances from drag queen Maxie Andreison and more, freezing their dynamic moves and bold presence in sharp clarity. With its optical image stabilization (OIS), even the most energetic scenes looked perfectly steady and vivid.

vivo also proudly presented several major awards, honoring the artists who continue to elevate OPM to new heights:

● Tour of the Year: ‘Simula at Wakas’ World Tour – SB19

● Concert of the Year: ‘Simula at Wakas’ World Tour Kickoff – SB19

● Music Company of the Year: Sony Music Philippines

● Album of the Year: Silakbo – Cup of Joe

● Song of the Year: “Multo” – Cup of Joe

● Artist of the Year: SB19

 

These remarkable wins were all captured in vivid detail, a true testament to how the vivo V60 immortalizes every special moment.

Capturing red carpet glamor

Before the music filled the arena, the red carpet shimmered with icons and stars. Getting that perfect red carpet shot is easy with the vivo V60’s 50MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera.

Personalities like Michelle Dee, Kira Balinger, Rere Madrid, and Yeng Constantino graced the carpet with their perfect gowns, while P-pop groups struck bold and stylish fashion that showcased their individuality and star power.

With vivo V60, shooting at events is effortless, but pictures come out with serious star quality.

Bring every spotlight moment closer. Own the vivo V60 today for as low as Php 28,999 in Berry Purple, Summer Blue, or Mist Gray. Available at vivo concept stores, kiosks, authorized dealers, and online via the vivo e-store, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

How do you bring out your ‘Ultra’ self? #TeamGalaxy shares their thoughts with Unfold Your Story

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Catch the podcast hosted by Erwan Heussaff, Nico Bolzico, and Jaz Reyes on Samsung’s official Spotify, YouTube, and Facebook pages

Step into your Ultra Self with “Unfold Your Story,” where curiosity meets candor, and every conversation sparks insight. Presented by Samsung, the podcast offers a deep dive into honest, and thought-provoking dialogues with creators, experts, and cultural voices shaping the way we live, think, and create content.

Hosted by #TeamGalaxy’s Erwan Heussaff, Jaz Reyes, and Nico Bolzico and featuring other creatives from #TeamGalaxy, the episodes dive into real, relatable conversations about personal growth, self-discovery, and the role of innovation not only in content creation but in everyday life. Listeners will also discover how Galaxy AI—Samsung’s suite of intelligent tools—empowers the guests to unlock their full potential.

With countless hours of content consumed by Filipinos every day, success can seem instant—effortless, even. But behind the lens lies a deeper story: one of grit, growth, and the unseen hustle. From uncovering your “why,” carving a path that’s uniquely yours to staying authentic in a world of trends, “Unfold Your Story” is a must-listen podcast that invites listeners to explore what it truly means to be their Ultra Self — the most authentic, empowered, and creative version of who they are.

Unfolding the secrets in finding purpose beyond passion, the premiere episode tackles how to recover from burnout, fight imposter syndrome and reignite the creative spark that often dims in the face of pressure and perfectionism relevant to listeners in their late 20s to 40s. It features Life Coach Mara Banson who will share insights in navigating “new adulthood,” while Jun Guevara, Head of Mobile Experience at Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation, shared how the brand supports people through this transformative life stage.

It also tackles how Galaxy AI features like Gemini Live, elevate productivity through natural conversations that adapt to everyday life. With Gemini Live, users can interact freely and access real-time information, upload images, or use the camera for instant suggestions. On the Galaxy Z Fold7, one of Samsung’s latest foldable innovations, these features come to life, showing how Samsung’s most advanced devices are built to integrate seamlessly into any lifestyle.

In Episode 2, the spotlight turns to Janine Gutierrez, an award-winning actress who has earned Best Actress honors at both the FAMAS and Gawad Urian Awards, and was recognized as a Rising Star at the 20th New York Asian Film Festival. Coming from a prominent showbiz family, Janine opens up about the pressures of legacy, the journey of carving her own path and shares how someone can build their own identity and bloom on their own terms, even when it doesn’t follow the expected path.

The podcast also highlights how modern tools, including Galaxy AI, are transforming creative processes. Whether it’s running lines with voice assistants or using AI to simulate a character’s tone and delivery, technology is becoming an invaluable partner in artistic and personal development.

In the food content sphere, Ryan Reyes, better known as Ninong Ry, is always known for his relatable, light, and humorous content that ranges from classic Filipino dishes to quirky kitchen hacks. He’s a chef, vlogger, and digital creator who has captured millions of followers and created a loyal community of “inaanak,” with his no-frills, laugh-out-loud approach to cooking.

But staying relevant and creative is difficult. In the final episode, Ninong Ry opens up about what it takes to remain inspired, honest, and raw in a space where trends and algorithms often dominate, and where innovation is a constant demand for creators like him.

Tune in to “Unfold Your Story” to hear all the episodes anytime and anywhere on Spotify. You can also watch the series by visiting Samsung official Youtube channel and Facebook Page.

For more updates on the latest episodes and exclusive content, visit Samsung’s official website at www.samsung.com/ph and follow Samsung Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

iWant Brings ‘PBB Collove’ Experience to Global Audiences Live

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The much-awaited “PBB Collove” concert featuring Kapamilya and Kapuso “PBB Collab” ex-housemates streams live from the Smart Araneta Coliseum to global audiences this Sunday (August 10) on iWant.

iWantTickets will stream the star-studded event worldwide in the Philippines, USA, Canada, UK, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, UAE, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Germany, and Italy.

Tickets to the exclusive pay-per-view livestream are now available for only ?199 in the Philippines and $3.99 for international audiences via tickets.iWantTFC.com.

The concert is headlined by the season’s Big Winner BREKA (Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca), along with Second Big Placer RAWI (Ralph De Leon and Will Ashley), Third Big Placer CHARES (Charlie Flemming and Esnyr Ranollo), and Fourth Big Placer AZVER (AZ Martinez and River Joseph), as they lead a once-in-a-lifetime celebration that breaks boundaries and unites fans around the world.

Also joining the fancon are celebrity housemates and performers from both networks, including Dustin Yu, Bianca de Vera, Klarisse de Guzman, Shuvee Etrata, Vince Maristela, Xyriel Manabat, Emilio Daez, Michael Sager, Kira Balinger, Josh Ford, AC Bonifacio, Ashley Ortega, and other surprise guests and performers.

Catch your favorite Kapamilya and Kapuso housemates and relive unforgettable moments in “PBB Collove,” streaming live this Sunday (August 10) on iWantTickets.

Stream all the feels only on iWant. Download the app and hit subscribe on Google Play or the Apple Store.

See how Anne Curtis and BJ Pascual brought the vivo V50 shoot to life!

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Beyond social media interactions and fun events, vivo ambassador Anne Curtis and BJ Pascual share a bond rooted in their passion for creativity.

With BJ framing the shots and Anne embodying the vision, their collaboration beautifully merges friendship and art.

The vivo V50 shoot was extra special, with BJ—who has worked on multiple projects for vivo—now joining Anne to spotlight the latest flagship smartphone.

Ahead, get a glimpse of the lively behind-the-scenes moments with this dynamic duo!

The power of perfect synergy

It’s clear that Anne and BJ shared a natural comfort on set, complemented by their mutual confidence in each other. Playing to her strengths, Anne served stunning angles in every layout while BJ hyped her up and captured the shots.

Best believe, the shoot was a perfect balance of work and fun, with smiles and laughter spreading to everyone present, from the glam squad to the whole production team!

Keeping the vibes high during a debrief

Caught on camera: that universally relatable pause while carefully reviewing every shot.

This brief moment of quiet review quickly turned into shared excitement, with Anne and BJ exchanging high-fives and laughter after nailing a series of perfect shots!

Featuring a powerful 50MP ZEISS All Main Camera, the vivo V50 raises the bar for portrait photography, producing crisp, high-quality images with ease.

Even better, designed for long hours of creativity, its powerful 6000mAh BlueVolt Battery keeps it running through extended photo sessions—just like this one with Anne and BJ!

High-fashion portraits—secured

Using the vivo V50's Photo Mode, BJ photographed Anne as she struck editorial-style poses for an edgy layout.

For enhanced precision, its focal length can be easily adjusted to suit any creative style. BJ worked with the 48mm to expertly capture these portraits of Anne.

What sealed the deal for him was the vivo V50's AI Aura Light Portrait 2.0, offering adjustable warmth and brightness to create the perfect lighting for these stunning shots of Anne, suitable for a fashion spread!

BJ's new ally for portrait perfection

Precision matters to BJ as a photographer. His keen eye for detail extends to his choice of camera lenses, ensuring every shot meets his high standards.

He highlighted how the vivo V50 exceeded his expectations throughout the dynamic shoot with Anne, thanks to its ZEISS co-engineered camera that redefines portrait photography.

Recognizing ZEISS' excellence, BJ acknowledged its status as a leader in high-quality optics, edging imagery closer to real life.

Combining style with a powerhouse camera system, the vivo V50 starts at PHP 27,999—bringing pro-level photography within reach. Pre-order now until March 14, 2025, via the vivo website, Shopee, and Lazada.