realme unveils dedicated Camera Control button ahead of its global competitors

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The innovative design is poised to revolutionize the industry, elevating the mobile photography experience to a whole new level

realme, the world’s fastest-growing smartphone brand, unveiled its Camera Control Button last August 14, ahead of its global competitors, making it a pioneer among other tech brands in conceptualizing the dedicated camera button designed to revolutionize mobile photography.

realme's Vice President and Global Marketing President, Chase Xu, recently gave fans an exciting sneak peek of the new Camera Control button on social media, using a demo realme unit to showcase its features.

In the video, Xu demonstrated how seamlessly the Camera Control button works, highlighting its intuitive design. With just a simple slide, users can adjust the focal length, while a quick press turns the button into a shutter, making it easier than ever to capture stunning photos.

A Camera Control Button That's Ahead of the Curve

The Camera Control button highlights realme’s focus on innovative design, setting trends in the smartphone industry. It offers an intuitive and user-friendly experience for controlling camera functions.

The solid-state Camera Control button delivers precise control. Users can effortlessly slide the button to adjust focus or exposure, significantly enhancing shooting efficiency. Enjoy intuitive touch controls that enable instant zoom and quick shots, turning your phone into a professional camera designed for smooth and easy use.

With the Camera Control button, realme is making pro-level camera experience more accessible than ever.

Groundbreaking Innovations

Apart from the Camera Control Button, realme continues to lead smartphone innovation, consistently pushing the boundaries in AI, performance, and imaging technology as seen on the realme GT 6 and realme 13 Pro Series 5G.

At realme's Cool Tech Event last August, the brand introduced its cutting-edge 320W SuperSonic Charge, capable of fully powering up a device in just 4 minutes and 30 seconds. This revolutionary charging technology set a new industry standard for speed and convenience, reshaping how people think about fast mobile charging.

realme has also pioneered a unique Anti-Reflective Smartphone Display that reduces screen glare by up to 80 percent, offering a paper-like texture for comfortable viewing, even under bright sunlight. This feature enhances outdoor visibility, allows users to lower brightness levels, and extends battery life.

When it comes to imaging, there's AI Motion Picture powered by realme NEXT AI, which transforms a single image into a dynamic 25-frame video—breathing life into memories and reviving still moments into vivid stories.

For gaming enthusiasts, realme raises the bar with AI Gaming Super Resolution, which leverages on-device AI to deliver smooth, crystal-clear visuals while reducing processor load.

The enhanced 4D Game Vibration provides customizable haptic feedback for over 100 in-game actions, from gunfire to footsteps. Paired with realme Holo Audio, gamers can adjust sound positioning, ensuring uninterrupted gameplay even during calls.

realme’s relentless commitment to innovation is evident in its pursuit of cutting-edge technologies that exceed user expectations. From ultra-fast charging to advanced camera and gaming features, realme is dedicated to leading the industry and setting new benchmarks.

To stay updated on realme’s latest announcements, head over to the official realme Facebook page and website.

The Lake Hotel Tagaytay: See what guests are saying about their stay at the luxurious lakefront hotel

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With its world-class service, diverse room lineup, wide selection of premium amenities, sumptuous dining options, and great location—nested along the slopes of Tagaytay ridge, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Taal Lake and Taal Volcano—The Lake Hotel Tagaytay is committed to delivering a luxurious stay that guests are sure to remember. 

And this commitment has been and continues to delight countless customers, if the universally positive reviews on Agoda, Trip Advisor, and Klook are any indication. For a quick look at what everyone is saying about The Lake Hotel Tagaytay, below are a few short reviews that you can peruse. 

Very nice rooms, breathtaking view 

Among the many reviews that The Lake Hotel Tagaytay received in the past couple of months were for its amenities, with guests praising the spacious rooms as well as the breathtaking view. For instance, Klook user Charmaine, in her review dated Aug. 21, 2024, highlighted the "very nice rooms" saying that the room she and his one companion got was big enough for a family, complete with high-end toiletries, and a large bathroom with a long table and cold and hot water available. 

Canadian tourist David, another Agoda user, posted a review on Sept. 14, 2024, saying that he had a wonderful time as the staff was very helpful, and that he still got a nice view of the lake even though the room he reserved wasn't advertised as a "lake view" room. 

Trip Advisor user Larry P., in his review dated Sept. 18, 2024, also cited the great view and the nice rooms that the hotel has. He also praised the concierge, saying that they went above and beyond to make his stay great. 

Excellent dining experience 

Another part of The Lake Hotel Tagaytay experience commonly praised by guests is the food, particularly the breakfast buffet. Agoda user Andrea, in her review dated Sept. 17, 2024, commented on her breakfast buffet experience, saying the food is good and the pianist made the dining experience even more enjoyable. 

Trip Advisor user Marlene M. wrote a review on Sept. 3, 2024, also praising the hotel's food, saying that she loved the fruit shake and "freshly made" ube ensaymada and added that she'll "definitely recommend this place" to her friends, colleagues, and family. 

Just like Agoda user Andrea, Agoda user Harold, in his review dated Sept. 23, 2024, said he enjoyed his breakfast experience and that "the piano player was a delight." He also said that while the hotel is not 5-star rated, the price was still worth it. 

Outstanding Quality of Service 

Aside from the nice rooms, great view, and excellent food, the outstanding quality of service provided by the staff is also consistently praised by the guests. In his review dated Sept. 23, 2024, Trip Advisor user Mark P. praised the hotel's concierge, restaurant staff, and security personnel for their excellent customer service, saying that their efforts to make a lasting good impression makes him want to come back with his family. 

Finally, Klook user Mark left a review dated Sept. 2, 2024, where he said that he and his companion had fun staying at the hotel and commending the staff for being accommodating, ending his short review with by saying that he'll “definitely go back soon.” 

These are just some of the many positive sentiments about The Lake Hotel Tagaytay from satisfied customers. To learn more about what guests are saying about their stay, you can check out the rest of the reviews about The Lake Hotel Tagaytay on Agoda, Trip Advisor, and Klook. 

Book your next well-deserved getaway at The Lake Hotel Tagaytay today by visiting https://www.lakehoteltagaytay.com/. 

Alsons Dev Recognized among BDO Home Loan's Top Developer Partner

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DAVAO CITY, Philippines - Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), Davao City’s premier real estate company, was honored as one of BDO Home Loan’s Top Developer Partners for 2023 during the BDO Annual Developers' Appreciation Event. Alsons Dev officially received the prestigious Sapphire Award and Most Compliant Award, underscoring Alson Dev's dedication to providing exceptional customer service and meeting the dynamic real estate needs of Mindanaoans.

Alsons Dev receives the Sapphire Award and the Most Compliant Award at BDO Home Loan's Top Developer Partners for 2023, recognizing their commitment to excellence in the industry

This marks the first time that BDO acknowledged the Davao-based developer on the prestigious list. As the sole awardee from Davao and Mindanao, Alsons Dev solidified its position as a regional industry leader, highlighting its unique influence and commitment to excellence in the real estate market.

For more information about Alsons Dev, please visit https://alsonsdev.com/.

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About Alsons Dev:

Alsons Dev is a leading real estate development firm in Davao City with over 60 years of experience in building residential and commercial properties of good quality and ever-increasing investment value.

Alsons Dev established itself by introducing high-end open lot residential communities in Davao. In 2016, the company expanded its portfolio to include mid-cost housing developments through its Nurtura Land and Home brand, with the award-winning Narra Park Residences as its maiden project.

In 2023, Alsons Dev expanded its geographical reach with the launch of Avia Estate, a 121-hectare mixed-use township in Alabel, Sarangani. Narra Park Residences Avia, the first residential offering within the estate, exemplifies the company's commitment to redefining the standard of living in SOCCSKSARGEN.

Alsons Dev also offers prime retail and commercial spaces, including Poblacion Market Central, a cultural hub for shopping, dining, and lifestyle experiences in downtown Davao; CityMall Northtown, a joint venture with DoubleDragon Properties; and The Shoppes, a convenient commercial strip serving the needs of neighboring communities.

Ballet Manila’s Florante at Laura: A symphony of creativity and harmonious ingenuity

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The landmark production brings together some of the country’s finest dance and musical artists for a world premiere that spotlights yet another Filipino literary masterpiece

Lisa Macuja Elizalde

“Something magical happens when artists come together! ”

Lisa Macuja Elizalde, Ballet Manila's creative director, couldn't contain her excitement when asked about the upcoming world premiere of Florante at Laura.

The outstanding production, which comes at the heels of the ballet company’s highly successful Ibong Adarna, will be staged at the Aliw Theater on October 12, 2024, at 8 PM, and on October 13 and 19, 2024 at 5 PM. Florante at Laura will gather some of the country’s highly esteemed creatives in music, literature, ballet, and stage production.

A collaboration of masters in their craft

“Florante at Laura was a project that was going to be Gerardo Francisco’s next epic adventure. This was planned way before the pandemic happened,” recalled Lisa.

Gerardo is the dance company’s longtime principal dancer and co-artistic associate, who also choreographed the award-winning Ibong Adarna. Working with him is the exemplary British choreographer Martin Lawrance who is behind Ballet Manila’s full length innovative retelling of Romeo and Juliet in the Filipino setting.

With this collaboration, Gerardo shared, “Clear communication, thorough discussions, and mutual support were crucial in keeping us on track.” To this, Martin agrees. “We just seem to click and bounce ideas off of each other. It has so far been a very fruitful collaboration. Communication has been the key! ”

From the collaboration between Gerardo and Martin, the intricate pieces to this masterpiece of a production started falling into place when Lisa invited renowned writer and balagtasan expert Professor Michael Coroza as a guest in her show, Art 2 Art, where she asked him to watch Ibong Adarna. “I then invited Michael to collaborate with Gerardo and Martin Lawrence to create the libretto for Florante at Laura.”

Soon after, the quest for a composer began. Lisa imagined someone who can create original compositions akin to a Filipino Tchaikovsky—sweeping, dramatic, powerful, and romantic. “I was so very thrilled when National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab said yes!” shared Lisa.

One of the pillars of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), Ryan Cayabyab, was named National Artist for Music in 2018 with an extensive body of work ranging from orchestras and full-length musical productions to television and commercials. “It had been quite some time since I wrote a large musical work,” he shared.

Despite being a seasoned composer and musician, Ryan was thrilled to work with fellow creatives: “Most important before I start creating music is the mutual understanding among the other creatives and the producer regarding style and medium of music.”

Breathing life into his original compositions is the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth (OFY) under the baton of his son, Toma Cayabyab—another dream fulfilled for Ryan. “Everything is a surprise and wonder for me. I challenged myself into accepting this landmark ballet production, and I hope that it becomes an important legacy for all of us involved in it.”

An epic production with mesmerizing visuals

A literary masterpiece written by Filipino poet Francisco ‘Balagtas’ Baltasar and published in 1838, Florante at Laura follows the story of Florante, a duke who was held captive and enslaved by the Turks. But with the help of Aladin, he managed to escape from his captors to return to his country, Albania, to face off the usurper Count Adolfo, seek redemption, and reunite with his beloved Laura.

To translate the story’s universal themes of love, betrayal, and friendship in dramatic visuals, Ballet Manila tapped the expertise of key players who have been involved in many local and international productions for decades. Set designer Mio Infante explained that his designs depict not just the actual setting in the story. “This epic ballet includes a diverse set of locations, which not only serve as physical spaces but also symbolize the internal and external conflicts of the characters, as well as broader themes of love, war, loyalty, and betrayal.”

Complementing his designs are the stunning costumes from Make It Happen, led by Otto Hernandez & Therese Arroyo Hernandez. The duo noted, “Costumes play a crucial role in conveying the story and message of a production. It can contribute to the overall visual aesthetics, help define characters, evoke emotions, and enhance the audience's understanding of the narrative.”

Meanwhile, lighting director John Batalla emphasizes the importance of using a distinct lighting color palette to differentiate the varied locales of Florante and Laura. “Mood is certainly a major part of the themes that lighting has to tackle in a production such as this in order to transport the audiences to a different time and far-away places.”

Expect more from Ballet Manila

As one of the country’s leading dance companies, Ballet Manila has been known for its keen eye for excellence and artistry. While it has created many award-winning productions, the audience can expect more world class performances thanks to the leadership of Lisa.

But for now, she wishes the audience to bask in the magical greatness of Florante at Laura. “That’s why we work so hard every day – to create art that people will want to watch again and again.”

All performances will be staged at Aliw Theater, Pasay City. For tickets, visit www.ticketworld.com.ph. To learn more about Ballet Manila and its shows, visit www.balletmanila.com.ph.

Chevron Renews Partnership with Edukasyon.ph to Offer Training and Employment Support for Scholars in Cloud Computing through AWS re/Start program

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Chevron Philippines Inc (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand of fuel and lubricants, has signed a partnership once again with Edukasyon.ph to offer cloud computing training and employment support for disadvantaged individuals through the AWS re/Start program.

Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI) has renewed its partnership with Edukasyon.PH to offer training and employment assistance to underserved individuals through the AWS re/Start program. (From left to right: Jason Gaisono, Board Member at Edukasyon.ph, Sophia Isabelle C. Fontanilla, Board Member at Edukasyon.ph, Raissa Bautista, Corporate Affairs Manager CPI, and Joel Gaviola, Corporate Affairs Advisor CPI.)

The collaboration between Chevron and Edukasyon.ph underscored their shared commitment to the educational development of underserved individuals.

Forty-eight scholars graduated from the last batch of Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start program in the high-growth field of cloud computing. These scholars completed the program with distinction and acquired valuable technical skills in designing, managing, and optimizing cloud infrastructures, which are increasingly in demand. For the second batch, Edukasyon.ph aims to enroll 50 students in the program supported by Chevron Philippines.

Cloud computing has become a vital component for businesses of all sizes, leading to increased demand in the tech industry. Enhancing the skills of professionals in this field is essential to ensure that Filipinos, both in the Philippines and around the world, develop the specialized knowledge and expertise required.

AWS re/Start is a cohort-based workforce development training program designed to prepare individuals for careers in the cloud and connect them with potential employers. No prior technology experience is required to apply. The program is free for participants and specifically aims to assist unemployed or underemployed individuals in launching new careers

With guidance from professional mentors and accredited instructors, participants gain a strong foundation in cloud computing that prepares them for entry-level cloud jobs. The training covers essential programming, networking, security, and relational database skills through real-world scenarios, hands-on labs, and coursework. Graduates from collaborating organization possess not only technical skills but also professional competencies, and they have earned an AWS Certification, a recognized credential that validates their cloud computing expertise.

“We are very grateful to Chevron Philippines for their continued support. Programs like this are quite costly, and their external support allows us to develop additional cohorts, enabling more students to participate and benefit from upskilling opportunities. We are also thrilled to have the opportunity to renew our partnership with Chevron,” said Sophia Fontanilla, Board member of Edukasyon.ph

Edukasyon.ph and Chevron Philippines executives during the MOU signing 

Chevron and Edukasyon.ph executives pose for a group photo in front of Chevron’s photo wall.

“Reflecting on the success of last year’s cohort, we at Chevron Philippines firmly believe that cloud computing is crucial for shaping the future for aspiring Filipino professionals. We are deeply committed to supporting education and improving livelihoods for disadvantaged groups. We also extend our gratitude to Edukasyon.ph for this partnership, which will help us upskill more individuals.” said Raissa Bautista, CPI Corporate Affairs Manager.

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About Chevron

Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable, and ever-cleaner energy is essential to achieving a more prosperous and sustainable world. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals, and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We are focused on lowering the carbon intensity in our operations and growing lower carbon businesses along with our traditional business lines. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.