Shoot like a pro: BJ Pascual's vivo V50 Masterclass

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To mark a decade of innovation, vivo hosted an exclusive and interactive Photography Masterclass led by renowned celebrity and fashion photographer BJ Pascual at the vivo store in One Ayala, and streamed live on vivo Philippines’ official Facebook page on July 12, 2025.

The event brought together loyal vivo fans and photography enthusiasts to learn how to shoot like a pro using the vivo V50, the brand’s latest V Series innovation featuring a 50MP ZEISS All Main Camera.

Hosted by the ever-stunning Nicole Cordoves, the masterclass kicked off with energy and excitement as she introduced BJ Pascual and the impressive capabilities of the vivo V50.

A Creative Spark: BJ Pascual’s Journey Into Photography

Before he became one of the most celebrated celebrity fashion photographers in the country, known for working with A-list stars and gracing the pages of top magazines, BJ Pascual was simply a young creative with an eye for storytelling and a drive to make things happen.

His journey into photography began much earlier than college. He first picked up an SLR camera as a personal hobby, experimenting with shots long before stepping into any formal art or design setting.

BJ spent his early years crafting, managing a fan blog for Christina Aguilera, practicing graphic design, and even designing the official shirt for his batch at DLSU. Creativity was his comfort zone, and he poured himself into every detail of it.

Without any connections in the fashion or media industries, BJ knew he had to build his own path. His first big step came when his photos were featured in their school magazine.

That recognition became a turning point. It introduced his work to a wider audience and showed him that his passion had the power to open doors.

What started as a hobby eventually became a career. From crafting at home to being featured in school publications, those early moments laid the groundwork for what would become an incredible journey behind the lens.

Learning from the Photography Master

The event wasn’t just a talk. It was a full-on creative deep dive with BJ Pascual himself. Armed with the vivo V50 co-engineered with ZEISS, BJ let his viewers in on how he captures magazine-worthy portraits, fashion shots, and beauty closeups straight from his mobile phone.

Nicole herself modeled throughout the masterclass, showing first-hand how powerful mobile photography can be with the device’s advanced ZEISS lenses and portrait technology.

1. Basic Photography Using Portrait Mode

BJ kicked things off with the foundation of it all: lighting, composition, and framing. He explained how portrait mode enhances depth and focus, especially when paired with good lighting.

Taken using Photo Mode

Taken using Portrait Mode

Tip from BJ: Want that long-legged, runway-ready illusion? Keep the subject’s face in the center of your grid. It gives the legs and background more space to stretch—hello, editorial realness.

He also explained how distortion can be used intentionally to shape the subject and make photos more dynamic, especially for storytelling.

2. Fashion Photography Using ZEISS Multifocal Portrait Mode

Next was a deep dive into lens play. BJ introduced the ZEISS Multifocal Portrait Mode, showing how you can switch from:

23mm

35mm

50mm

The rule? The lower the number, the wider the background. And yes—it’s all in your pocket.

Tip from BJ: Use focal length like a styling tool. Wide for drama, tight for intimacy. Choose what story you want to tell with the frame.

3. Beauty Shots Using ZEISS Style Bokeh & AI Aura Light 2.0

To close the masterclass, BJ dove into one of the most exciting features of the vivo V50 — the ZEISS Style Bokeh Effects and AI Aura Light Portrait 2.0.

Using just the phone, he recreated what would normally require a full photography setup: glowing, cinematic beauty portraits that could easily pass for magazine editorials. And the best part? No bulky lenses needed.

BJ highlighted his top three ZEISS bokeh styles built into the vivo V50 — each one simulating lenses that would otherwise cost tens to hundreds of thousands:

• Biotar – Known for its signature swirl that wraps light around the subject, creating a dreamy and artistic effect. (Estimated lens cost: Php 23,000)

• B-Speed – Offers a subtle motion blur with curved, triangular highlights that bring life and movement to a portrait. (Estimated lens cost: Php 219,000)

• Distagon – Inspired by ZEISS’ famous “Hollywood lens,” it delivers smooth, creamy background blur with distinctive hexagonal light effects. (Estimated lens cost: Php 83,000)

Biotar

B-Speed

Distagon

Tip from BJ: Use different bokeh styles to express different moods — soft swirls for a romantic feel, cinematic motion for dynamic glam, and clean blur for timeless elegance.

BJ shared how impressed he was that these effects, once only achievable with bulky prime lenses, are now available in one device. With the vivo V50, he could achieve the same level of detail, emotion, and artistry he’d typically create in a full studio setup — right from his pocket.

And of course, he wrapped it all up with a reminder that resonated: “Start with vision.” Because at the heart of every great photo isn't just technique, it’s the intent to how you tell a story

Celebrate with vivo

The vivo V50 is currently available with a Php 2,000 discount as part of vivo’s 10th anniversary celebration. Get it now in all vivo physical stores nationwide or online via vivo website, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. Whether you're a budding content creator, fashion enthusiast, or casual photo lover, this is your chance to own a device that puts professional tools in your pocket.

Follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X or visit vivoglobal.ph for more exclusive masterclasses, promos, and surprises. Use the hashtags #vivo10ClubPH #vivoTurns10 #vivoCelebratesYou and show the world what you can create with the vivo V50.

DTI Gears Up for the 2025 National Trade Fair, Championing Green Innovation and Filipino MSMEs

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Get ready to experience Filipino innovation at its finest! The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) proudly announces the much-anticipated return of the DTI Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair, happening from July 23 to 27, 2025, at the Megatrade Halls of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

Now in its latest edition, the fair brings together close to 300 carefully selected exhibitors from across the Philippines. These enterprises will showcase a dynamic range of proudly local products—from heirloom crafts and wellness essentials to upcycled home décor, contemporary fashion, and environmentally responsible solutions. This year’s lineup promises not just variety but excellence, as each exhibitor has been chosen for their commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability.

More Than a Trade Event

What sets the National Trade Fair apart is its deeper mission. It isn’t just about displaying and selling goods; it’s about celebrating the stories, cultures, and communities that shape them. Supporting the Tatak Pinoy Strategy, the 2025 edition reinforces DTI’s push to build a dynamic domestic economy where homegrown brands and products can flourish, not only locally but also on the global stage. Through innovation, creative design, and responsible production, these MSMEs are showing how Filipino enterprises can lead in a fast-evolving world.

What’s New This Year

“The National Trade Fair is more than a marketplace—it’s a national platform for promoting Filipino excellence, innovation, and sustainability. This 2025 edition goes even further, introducing new features to spotlight game-changing green technologies,” said DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista, who heads the Competitiveness and Innovation Group.

She further explained that unlike the National Food Fair, which focuses on culinary enterprises, the National Trade Fair highlights a wider spectrum of Filipino creativity. From fashion and home furnishings to digital innovations and natural wellness products, the NTF offers a rich and immersive experience. Assistant Secretary Bautista emphasized that this year’s fair continues to promote the use of Philippine natural raw materials and highlights the potential of green technologies in helping MSMEs scale up and compete more effectively.

Spotlight on Sustainability and Innovation

One of the major highlights of this year’s fair is the Philippine Sustainability Pavilion. Here, visitors will find breakthrough eco-innovations and green technologies taking center stage. The pavilion brings to light how indigenous and natural materials—such as bamboo, abaca, and native grasses—are transformed into high-value products suitable for both local consumption and international markets. It is a striking example of how environmental consciousness and cultural heritage can be woven together to create products that are beautiful, functional, and sustainable.

But the fair offers more than just shopping and exhibits. Attendees will also enjoy a rich learning environment through business development seminars, live skills demonstrations, and themed exhibit zones. These are designed to help MSMEs improve their market access, develop innovative products, and accelerate their growth. Whether you’re a buyer, a budding entrepreneur, or simply someone who values Filipino craftsmanship, there is something to learn and appreciate at every corner of the event.

A Legacy of Success

The National Trade Fair has consistently proven to be a powerful platform for MSMEs. In 2024, it featured 273 MSMEs and welcomed 27,909 visitors. The event generated Php 73.2 million in total sales, including Php 62.12 million in cash sales and booked orders. These numbers reflect not only the public’s growing support for locally made products but also the strategic value of this event in helping small businesses grow.

As the 2025 edition unfolds, it carries the momentum of past successes while pushing toward new heights. With growing interest in sustainability, quality local goods, and proudly Filipino innovations, the fair is expected to deliver even greater impact this year.

Everyone’s Invited

The 2025 DTI-Bagong Pilipinas National Trade Fair will run for five days, from July 23 to 27, at SM Megamall. Admission is free and open to all. This is your chance to discover the latest in proudly local design, support MSMEs from all over the country, and take part in a movement that’s building a more sustainable and globally competitive Philippine economy.

Stay Connected

For more information, you may reach out to DTI by emailing BMDPO@dti.gov.ph. You can also stay updated on event highlights and exhibitor features by following DTI-BMDPO on social media. Find them on Facebook (@DTI.BMDPO), X (@DTI_BMDPO), Instagram (@dti.bmdpo), YouTube (@dti_bmdpo), and TikTok (@dti.bmdpo).

Teacher wins big at BJ Pascual's vivo V50 Masterclass

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In a crowd buzzing with energy and creativity at BJ Pascual’s exclusive photography masterclass at One Ayala, one attendee walked away with more than just knowledge and inspiration. He left with a new vision, a game-changing device, and a massive 50% discount on the vivo V50.

Meet Johann Rabino, a passionate educator and school paper mentor whose dedication to storytelling has always gone beyond the classroom walls.

A proud vivo user for nearly five years, Johann’s eyes lit up when his name was called for the exclusive 50% V50 discount. It was a reward, he says, that felt like destiny.

A Portrait of Loyalty

Johann, a school paper adviser and photography hobbyist, has been a vivo loyalist for years. When asked what made him stay with the brand, his answer was simple yet powerful: consistency and reliability.

“Yung battery life, yung app na hindi nagla-lag, consistent talaga. As a teacher, kailangan ko ng phone na hindi ako bibiguin. Kaya dito ako nag-stay,” he shared.

His active engagement on vivo's Facebook page showcased not only his loyalty but also his creative flair. That thoughtful entry helped secure his spot as the exclusive 50% discount winner. It was a testament to how vivo celebrates and uplifts its passionate community.

Known in his school as the go-to guy for event photos, Johann’s love for photography goes beyond hobby. It’s a tool for connection, creativity, and education. He regularly contributes to his school’s publication, seamlessly blending visuals with compelling narratives.

“Sabi nga nila, ako lagi ang tinatawag pag may pictorial. I combine photography and writing para mas impactful. Kaya sobrang meaningful ng experience na ‘to.”

Attending BJ Pascual’s masterclass reignited Johann’s passion for photography, especially when he discovered the advanced bokeh capabilities of the vivo V50.

“Akala ko dati isang type lang ng bokeh. Pero ngayon ko lang nalaman na ang dami palang variations. Ang daming possibilities. Nakaka-inspire,” he said beaming.

He was especially struck by the idea that what once required bulky, expensive camera gear is now possible with a phone. “Yung ZEISS lenses, mahal talaga 'yun. Yung B-Speed, nasa Php 200,000 pataas. Pero andito na lahat sa vivo V50. Wala ka nang kailangan dalhin na mabigat. Kaya sobrang amazed talaga ako.”

Now, Johann plans to pass on this new knowledge to his students by making them a subject and having mini-lessons, encouraging them to explore storytelling through the lens of mobile photography.

Unlock Your Story with vivo V50

The vivo V50 is the perfect upgrade for storytellers who don’t want to miss a moment. It delivers professional-grade photography, exceptional performance, and sleek style all in one smart device.

Get it now with Php 2,000 off at all vivo physical stores nationwide or online via vivo website, Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

Stay connected and stay inspired. For more exclusive events, stories, and promos, follow vivo Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X or visit vivoglobal.ph.

PascualLab Receives Its First Medal of Recognition at the League of Corporate Foundations’ 2025 CSR Expo

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Pascual Laboratories, Inc. (PascualLab), one of the well-loved Filipino-owned pharmaceutical companies,¹ inspired with a vision for Strong, Healthy families, recently received its first-ever Medal of Recognition from the prestigious League of Corporate Foundations (LCF) at the Dusit Thani in Makati. For helping pursue the triple bottom line of People, Planet, and Productivity for all through its own CSR program Sowing to Empower, Educate, and Develop (S.E.E.D.) - the LCF - the Filipino network of organizations supporting sectors in need, bestowed PascualLab a Medal of Recognition for excellence in CSR focus areas, including the environment and sustainable agriculture. Anchored on the theme, “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity for Shared Prosperity”, this year’s expo awarded member-organizations the Guild Award and non-member organizations the Medal of Recognition which PascualLab received alongside Fluor Daniels Foundation. 

From left to right: Ramon Derige, League of Corporate Foundations Treasurer & SEAOIL Foundation, Inc. Executive Director; Ana Carlos Chair, League of Corporate Foundations Environment Committee - Chair & TELUS International CSR Team Leader, TELUS International Philippines Foundation, Inc.; German Camigla Fluor Daniel Inc., Philippines Executive Director, Information Technology and Executive Sponsor, Philippines Community Affairs ; Marianne Johanna Ferrer de Vera, PascualLab Corporate Communications Manager; andNathaniel George Hipolito Manila Water Foundation, Inc. Environment Committee - Vice-Chair, League of Corporate Foundations & Program Operations Manager

While PascualLab has been pushing for Environmental, Social, and Environmental Goals (ESGs) long before the concept came to fore, this is the first external validation that PascualLab is on the right track in its health, education, and environment initiatives which include eco-friendly & inclusive agricultural practices. According to LCF Chairperson Shem Jose Garcia, the CSR Expo awards “creates space for collaboration and leveraging our collective strengths, especially in today’s society, where true success goes beyond efficiency and optimization to nurturing people and the communities we affect. That is how we achieve shared prosperity.” PascualLab is the home of family-friendly and quality products as

Poten-Cee, Ascof Lagundi, C-Lium Fibre, and OraCare Mouthrinse.

2GO Moves The Mind Museum’s Mind Rover to Puerto Princesa

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The Mind Rover travels to Palawan via 2GO.

2GO, the Philippines’ largest logistics and sea travel provider, has once again partnered with The Mind Museum to bring the wonders of science closer to the islands. This time, the collaboration takes the Mind Rover to Puerto Princesa, Palawan.

As part of this initiative, and ahead of the Mind Rover’s arrival in Palawan, passengers aboard MV 2GO St. Francis Xavier sailing from Manila to Puerto Princesa and Coron over the weekend enjoyed a series of exciting, science-themed activities onboard. Curated by The Mind Museum, these interactive sessions brought STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) learning to life. They turn sea travel into a fun, meaningful, and enriching experience for both kids and adults onboard.

This unique initiative brought logistics and learning together to move not just people and goods but also spark curiosity and imagination across the sea.

“We are thrilled to partner with 2GO. Through its shipping capabilities, the Mind Rover gets to visit provinces in the Philippines where it would have taken weeks if traveled by land and would have been difficult to transport without 2GO’s direct link from Manila. Through this partnership, we are able to impact more communities and hopefully encourage more kids to have an inspired engagement and view of science or maybe, even take up STEM in the future. We even get to reach more audiences as we also do science shows on board 2GO!,” said Maria Isabel Garcia, Managing Director and Curator of The Mind Museum.

Now on its third leg, the Mind Rover has successfully crossed Philippine seas through 2GO, following activations in Bacolod and General Santos. It now reaches Puerto Princesa with the same mission: to reimagine science, make it more exciting, and spark inspiration among Filipino children to become the country’s next generation of scientists and innovators.

"We are delighted to be part of this meaningful partnership. It is an honor to bring science closer to Filipino families through a unique onboard experience. By mounting the Mind Rover exhibit aboard our ships, in partnership with The Mind Museum, we’re creating a space for families to explore themes of sea travel, sustainability, and basic science while in transit. We believe that part of appreciating sea travel is understanding how it works — and through this experience, we hope to spark curiosity, awareness, and a deeper connection with our oceans," said Francis Chua, Business Unit Head of 2GO Travel.

The Mind Rover is a 12-meter museum-on-wheels packed with interactive and hands-on exhibits, and live science shows and demonstrations. It continues to fulfill its mission of bringing science beyond museum walls and into underserved island communities. The Puerto Princesa leg is the latest in a growing series of island activations made possible through collaborations like this.

With operations across 19 ports nationwide and a firm commitment to moving communities forward, 2GO’s partnership with The Mind Museum underscores its role not just as a logistics provider, but as a bridge to learning, creativity, and nation-building.

This collaboration reflects the power of purposeful partnerships in delivering meaningful, mind-moving experiences both at sea and on land.

To learn more about 2GO’s travel and shipping solutions, visit travel.2go.com.ph or email 2go_freight@2go.com.ph.