Season Two of The HBO Original Drama Series House of The Dragon Debuts June 17 on HBO And HBO GO

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HBO’s First-ever “Dueling” Trailers Released

(Photo credits: HBO GO)

The eight-episode second season of the HBO Original drama series House of the Dragon debuts Monday, June 17 on HBO and HBO GO.

Francesca Orsi, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming, Head of HBO Drama Series & Films, debuted HBO’s first-ever “dueling” trailers at Series Mania in Lille, France on Thursday, March 21 as part of WBD's announcement that Max will launch in Europe from May 21.

Westeros is on the brink of a bloody civil war with the Green and Black Councils fighting for King Aegon and Queen Rhaenyra, respectively. As each side believes theirs to be the rightful seat on the Iron Throne, the Green and Black trailers reflect those two perspectives in separate yet complementary halves of the same story. For global audiences, “All Must Choose” their side of House Targaryen as the realm fractures in season two.

Based on George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” the series, set 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones, tells the story of House Targaryen.

House of the Dragon Season two returning cast include Matt Smith, Olivia Cooke, Emma D’Arcy, Eve Best, Steve Toussaint, Fabien Frankel, Ewan Mitchell, Tom Glynn-Carney, Sonoya Mizuno, and Rhys Ifans. Additional returning cast includes Harry Collett, Bethany Antonia, Phoebe Campbell, Phia Saban, Jefferson Hall, and Matthew Needham.

Season two new cast include Abubakar Salim as Alyn of Hull, Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers, Freddie Fox as Ser Gwayne Hightower, Simon Russell Beale as Ser Simon Strong, Clinton Liberty as Addam of Hull, Jamie Kenna as Ser Alfred Broome, Kieran Bew as Hugh, Tom Bennett as Ulf, Tom Taylor as Lord Cregan Stark, and Vincent Regan as Ser Rickard Thorne.

Co-Creator/Executive Producer, George R.R. Martin, Co-Creator/Showrunner/Executive Producer, Ryan Condal, Executive Producers Sara Hess, Alan Taylor, Melissa Bernstein, Kevin de la Noy, Loni Peristere, Vince Gerardis. Based on George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood.”

Subscribe to HBO GO online at https://www.hbogoasia.ph/ or the mobile app via the App Store or Play Store for only ₱1,190 on the 12-month plan. Or access HBO GO via Cignal and Globe. HBO GO is also available on Android TV, Apple TV, LG TV and Samsung Smart TV – and comes with AirPlay and Google Cast functionality.

Road trip this long weekend? Here are some tips to keep it hassle-free

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With the long weekend coming up, many Filipinos are gearing up for a well-deserved break. Road trips are a popular choice during this time, especially to beach destinations as summer approaches.

Here are some tips to ensure your road trip is smooth sailing:

1. Plan your route.

Long weekends may involve road closures, maintenance, or construction, so it’s best to check the news for updates. Navigation apps will prove helpful during this time. The holiday rush may also affect traffic, so beat other travelers by leaving earlier, if possible.

 

2. Check your car.

A vehicle in top condition will be your best friend during a long journey. Ensure your tires are aligned and balanced, car fluids and battery are secure, and lights and turn signals work. Inspect your car before the trip to ensure everyone’s safety.

 

3. Pack essentials.

Long drives call for ample snacks to keep hunger at bay and a steady water supply to prevent dehydration. Bring essential medications and a first aid kit for any untoward incidents.

 

4. Go cashless.

Long lines at ATMs during holidays are inevitable. Embrace hassle-free travel by going cashless. Opt to pay through bank transfers, QR codes and the like.

5. Use Easytrip and Autosweep RFIDs.

Streamline your tollway transactions with RFID payments. By eliminating the need for cash transactions, drivers can breeze through tollways, avoiding long lines and unnecessary delays.

For a stress-free road trip this long weekend, effortlessly set up a PSBank account by simply downloading their mobile app. Enjoy cashless transactions through QR codes, and instantly reload your Easytrip and Autosweep RFIDs with PSBank.

For more information on PSBank’s products and services, visit psbank.com.ph or facebook.com/psbankofficial.

M Lhuillier Insurance, addition to its wide array of products and services affordable and accessible plans for all Filipinos

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An insurance is an incredibly versatile tool for your family's financial future. It’s the most important financial decision you can make to protect your family and help them live their best life, and can actually provide a stronger sense of financial security, And If you're just starting out or planning ahead for a secure retirement, now is the time to apply and buy.

M Lhuillier, a trusted financial services company dedicated to serving all Filipinos, know that every individual and family has unique insurance needs. To cater to this diversity, they offer a range of insurance plans designed to provide financial security and peace of mind.

M Lhuillier, has expanded its offerings to include M Lhuillier Insurance, an important addition to its wide array of products and services.

M Lhuillier’s ML Insurance

M Lhuillier’s ML Insurance provides affordable and accessible plans for all Filipinos.

Mr. Michael Lhuillier, president and CEO of M Lhuillier Financial Services Inc., shared : 

“We believe that Filipinos from all walks of life should be given the opportunity to choose and afford the protection they deserve. This is the reason we paved the way to offer insurance plans that fit their needs.”

M Lhuillier recognizes the needs of its customers when it comes to insurances, offers offers Pinoy Protect Plus, Family Protect Plus, Pawners Protect, Family Protect, and Kwarta Padala Protect.

M Lhuillier has diversified into various products and services through its Insurance Plans & Special Products. With insurance as its core business, MLhuillier developed products and services in telecoms, food products, and ticketing services.

*To access the M Lhuillier’s ML Insurance products, visit https://mlhuillier.com/insurance/

These insurance offerings are crafted in collaboration with reputable insurance companies including

• AIA Philippines
• MAA General Assurance Philippines Inc.,
• Paramount Life & General Insurance Corp., and
• PhilLife Financials.

Some of their notable insurance plans include:

• Pinoy Protect Plus

• Family Protect Plus

• Pawners Protect

• Family Protect

• Kwarta Padala Protect

The following insurance products are available at any M Lhuillier branches nationwide:

• 1. Personal Accident Insurance
• 2. CTPL (Compulsory Third Party Liability) Insurance
• 3. Dengue RX
• 4. Global Travel Protect Insurance
• 5. OFW Balik Manggagawa Insurance
• 6. Mediphone Insurance

To make a claim, here are the things you need to prepare:

• Original Copy of the Certificate of Insurance (COI)
• Incident, Police, or Barangay report
• Properly filled-up personal accident claim form
• Medico-legal or death certificate
• Insured person’s valid I.D. card
• Birth certificate (if single); Marriage contract (if married)
• Beneficiary’s birth certificate
• Proof of transaction with ML branch

This is what life insurance is, show you how affordable it can be, and walk you through the buying process once you're ready. To get started, just click the  M Lhuillier Insurance button for  rates and policies from the country's trusted insurance provider.

To access the ML Insurance products, visit M Lhuillier Insurance

To know the other services offered by M Lhuillier, you may also visit https://mlhuillier.com/

LRMC caps off Women’s Month with “HER Story” campaign - “HER Story: Celebrating Health and Well-being, Empowerment, and Resilience of Women"

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LRT-1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) successfully concluded its “HER Story: Celebrating Health and Well-being, Empowerment, and Resilience of Women at LRT-1” campaign promoting physical and mental well-being as part of National Women’s Month this March.

The campaign culminated in a two-day activation from March 21 – 22, 2024 at LRT-1 Central and United Nations stations by offering free health screenings conducted by LRMC’s partner health providers including mWell, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, De Los Santos Medical Center, and ManilaMed.

“At LRMC, we recognize the vital role women play in our society. Through ‘HER Story,’ we hope to empower our female passengers by providing them with access to resources and support to learn how they can prioritize their health and overall well-being. We are grateful for the collaboration with our healthcare partners who helped us achieve this goal,” said LRMC Head of Corporate Communications and Customer Relations Jacqueline S. Gorospe.

Female passengers were treated to various free health checks, including blood sugar screening, blood pressure checks, blood glucose tests, and body temperature monitoring. Partner health providers also offered additional giveaways to passengers who participated in activities at their booths. mWell, a participating health provider, delighted passengers with a raffle featuring smartwatches as prizes.

This initiative serves as a testament to LRMC’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for its passengers. LRMC hopes to contribute to a stronger and more vibrant community by prioritizing women’s health and well-being.

For more updates and info on the LRT-1, follow LRMC on Facebook at facebook.com/officialLRT1, X (formerly Twitter) at @officialLRT1, or download the ikotMNL mobile app for free on Google Play and App Store.

The birth of the Philippine Entertainment Bloggers Association (PEBA), aims to uphold the standards to digital storytelling

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It seems that life of entertainment is what most excites us and what we value above everything else. The entertainment industry is a branch that encompasses several spheres involving performing arts, namely film and television.

On its first general assembly held March 21, 2024, entertainment bloggers covering events from television, movies, theater and online content came together to form a union that will benefit the entertainment blogging community.

PEBA President Albert Abelido of The Chikkaness on what the organization’s vision is.

“We’re doing this because we love sharing entertainment news. We hope that we won’t be left out and that we continue to do what we are passionate about and that is writng. But of course, for us to be able to achieve it, we will go through a lot of difficulties. We have struggled before but we’ve learned from those struggles and for sure, there will be more on the way. We just need to be prepared to be able to keep up with digital storytelling,”

With thirthy- eight (38) members with roughly more than 2 million monthly website views, 4.3M Facebook followers, more than 130,000 followers on X, more than 1 million TikTok followers, almost 500,000 Instagram followers and 2 million YouTube subscribers, they say there’s strength in numbers and these are the numbers PEBA offers.

More than a decade since blogging started in the Philippines but this is the first time that an organization is formed. What some members think of as just a dream became a reality.

With a mission to help equip the entertainment blogging community with tools and opportunities to successfully build personal brand, connect with industry professionals, leverage platform for positive impact, and tell legitimate stories, PEBA aims to uphold the standards to digital storytelling and give better working environment to the current and future members of the organization.

Announced projects during the first general assembly are: PEBAyanihan, skill-building workshops, collab with industry professionals and the PEBA Awards Night.

Not only the members of PEBA will benefit by conducting these projects but also their partners as they reach more people and build better relationships.

The PEBA general assembly was held at 38 Valencia Place, the home of Mother Lily and Ms. Roselle Monteverde’s Regal Entertainment, Inc. and was attended by A Class and Project Z of AsterisK Entertainment, Gold Aceron, Martin Riggs and Kenaniah of OC Records, Salome Salvi, JD Aguas, VR Relosa and Armani Hector of VIVA Artists Agency.

The Philippine Entertainment Bloggers Association would like to thank Ms. Anna Magkawas and Luxe Beauty and Wellness Group , Ms. Peachy Vibal-Guioguio and Media.Xchange, Ms. Marianne Ferrer de Vera and Pascual Laboratories, Inc., Ms. Ana Liza Bautista and Penser Q Multimedia Company and Ms. Rhea Anicoche-Tan and Beautederm Corporation.

You can contact PEBA or send your inquiries through their email: peba032024@gmail.com

Fall “Stupid in Love” with MAX at his Ayala Malls shows this April!

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Can’t get enough of ‘STUPID IN LOVE’? Then you’re in luck, because multi-platinum Warner recording artist MAX is coming to Manila for three mall shows!

Today’s rising popstar

MAX has been in the music scene for a while now, but his viral bop 'STUPID IN LOVE' featuring LE SSERAFIM's Huh Yunjin has gained him a new level of global popularity and critical acclaim.

 

He also just released ‘LOVE IN STEREO,’ his third album that caps off a series of beautiful singles. ‘STUPID IN LOVE,’ which recently premiered its official music video, is just one of twelve remarkable hits MAX features here. The no-skip album also contains collaborations with renowned artists, such as 'IT'S YOU' featuring keshi, 'STRINGS' with JVKE and Bazzi, and 'BUTTERFLIES' with Ali Gatie.

 

Luckily, Filipino fans now have the opportunity to watch this rising popstar perform these well-loved songs! MAX is returning to the Philippines to perform a string of mall shows, namely at the UP Town Center on April 5, at Ayala Malls Manila Bay on April 6, and at One Ayala on April 7. With MAX’s last visit being way back in 2016, fans are surely excited for this highly-anticipated return.

 

A global phenomenon

MAX’s music is fueled by authenticity, something that has become apparent with his unfiltered, heart-on-sleeve lyrics and handcrafted visuals. The way he invites listeners to be part of his world is what makes him so relatable, which is why his rise to fame comes as no surprise.

 

One good example is how 'STUPID IN LOVE' took the world -- including the Philippines, by storm upon release. Right out the gate, the track exploded worldwide with 160 million TikTok views, 60K TikTok video creates, and 4 million streams in less than four days. Within the Philippines alone, the track has already achieved over 3 million streams on Spotify. It’s obvious that Filipinos love songs that come from the heart – something MAX excels at – as the Philippines currently ranks third among MAX's global fanbase.

 

The next big thing

There’s no doubt that MAX’s return to the Philippines will show just how much he’s grown as an artist. After all, he has toured the world multiple times over, with recognition from multiple media outfits. This includes being called "A young pop god" by GQ, the "top pop star to watch" by Billboard, and being nominated for "Best New Pop Artist" by iHeartRadio Music Awards. His music continues to send a message of creating safe spaces where everyone can feel accepted, and it’s only a matter of time until MAX reaches greater heights.

 

Listen to the viral hit STUPID IN LOVE here, and check out LOVE IN STEREO here!

Logitech Lights Up Shopee’s Mega Deal Sale with Thrilling Tech Deals

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Gear up for an epic tech extravaganza this week!

Logitech, the global leader in gaming and PC peripherals, is joining Shopee’s Mega Deal Sale. From March 25 to 27, dive into three days packed with fantastic tech offers to enhance your workspace and optimize performance. Incredible deals await you including discount vouchers up to 44% off, Sodexo gift certificates, and many more on selected products.

Logitech’s most sought-after products will be on sale starting March 25:

Logitech MK215 Keyboard and Mouse Combo: The affordable wireless experience

Get a two-for-one gadget deal for practically a steal. The MK215 keyboard is perfect for those looking for an affordable wireless experience.

The keyboard features a reliable 2.4GHz wireless technology that ensures a stable and quick typing response rate. It’s made from spill-resistant material and boasts a compact build along with a full number pad.

Meanwhile, the optical mouse has an ambidextrous design and provides smooth cursor control and high-definition optical tracking for smooth desktop navigation.

Both devices operate on battery power. The wireless keyboard boasts a battery life of two years, while the mouse offers a five-month operating duration.

Logitech Pebble Combo: Adding flair to your daily grind

Mundane daily tasks are now made more fun and colorful with the Logitech pebble combo. The stylish keyboard and mouse combo are lightweight, slim and compact, made for portability and intelligent use of space.

The rounded keys and mouse buttons not only look and feel nice, but they also emit 90% less noise thanks to Silent Touch Technology. Choose from a dazzling array of colors (Tonal Rose, Tonal White, Tonal Black, and Tonal Blue) to liven up your workspace and match your aesthetic.

Gain easy access to your go-to keyboard functions and more with the keyboard’s customizable shortcut keys through the Logi Options and Logi app. You may also connect seamlessly and switch between up to three devices with a press of the Easy-Switch button or with the included Logi Bolt Receiver.

Logitech MX Anywhere 2S Wireless Mouse: Masterful versatility anytime, anywhere

For a smooth, precise, and remarkable experience wherever and whenever consider picking up the Logitech MX Anywhere 2S. This powerful and versatile mouse utilizes Logitech Flow, allowing seamless work and navigation.

Connect with the included Logitech Unifying Receiver or Bluetooth low energy technology and switch up to three computers to maximize efficiency and easy transitions with the Logitech Easy-Switch technology.

This high-performing mouse glides to virtually any flat surface, including glass, thanks to the 4000-dpi Darkfield sensor. The quick-charging battery can be recharged for only 3 minutes and has enough for a day’s worth of usage and a full charge can last up to 70 days.

Logitech Zone Vibe 100 Lightweight Bluetooth Wireless Headset: Work well, play better

Turn the vibes up to eleven with the Zone Vibe 100. The lightweight, wireless headset is professional enough for office usage while also offering an immersive sound experience for casual use as well.

It’s compatible with commonly used video conference apps for daily meetings and paired with an integrated noise-canceling mic that can be tucked away when not in use. After a long day, unwind to your favorite tunes produced by 40mm speakers that bring you crisp and rich audio with minimal distortions.

Stay connected and move freely around your home or office with up to 20 hours of listening time and 18 hours of talk time on a full charge. Control buttons are placed conveniently on both sides of the headset to easily navigate music, volume, incoming calls, and Bluetooth pairing.

Logitech M191 Wireless Mouse: Get hands-on at work

Looking for a plug-and-play mouse that feels natural to the touch? The M191 might just be for you. This optical mouse is specifically designed to conform comfortably around medium to large hands allowing you to work wirelessly and effortlessly.

Enjoy smooth and responsive mouse control with zero delays and no dropouts within a 10-meter connectivity range. The precise tracking provides a consistent and accurate scroll for long documents.

Long work sessions? No problem. The M191 is battery-operated and equipped with an 18-month battery life that can be further maximized thanks to its energy-saving feature that automatically hibernates the mouse when not in use.

Load up your virtual carts and don’t miss out on Shopee’s fantastic Mega Deal Sale!

You may also visit the Logitech website and official Facebook Page to learn more about Logitech’s latest product offerings.

Baguio City accelerates Smart City status through Bitskwela’s Bull or Bear Web3 Debate

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Baguio, Philippines — Philippine-based education platform Bitskwela elevates Baguio’s transformation to a Smart City through the Bull or Bear: Philippine Web3 Debate, highlighting the potential of Web3 to drive technological-based governance, reforms, and innovations in the city and across local governments all over the country.

Held at the University of the Cordilleras, Bitskwela’s sixth Bull or Bear debate, themed "Web3 in Baguio," served as a melting pot for different stakeholders, enthusiasts, and students to engage in an open discussion on the pros and cons of blockchain-related technologies. With a leveled understanding, Baguio citizens are able to make well-informed decisions when engaging with the Web3 space.

Baguio Mayor Benjamin Magalong

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who is leading the charge to classify Baguio as a full-fledged Smart City by 2027, underscored the significance of the event: "This debate represents a pivotal step forward in our journey towards becoming a Smart City. By learning how to harness the transformative power of Web3 technology, we are not just envisioning a future of advanced governance and innovation but actively building it. Collaborations like these are crucial for us to realize a more connected, efficient, and inclusive city for all our residents.”

“The goal of the Baguio Smart City project is to leverage emerging technologies, such as data analytics and artificial intelligence, to enact good governance. Alongside the tech-savvy population of Baguio, emerging technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrencies potentially play as a strong complement to sectors such as tourism management and citizen welfare,” said Bitskwela CEO Jiro Reyes, echoing Mayor Magalong’s view on the integral role of Web3 in achieving the city’s goal.

The debate featured esteemed leaders and experts in blockchain, technology, and innovation, including Christopher Star of Web3PH, Paolo Dioquino of DeFi Philippines, Henry James of Bitshares Labs, Pat Arro of Polkadot SEA, and Van Orpilla of Google Developers Group Baguio. They provided thought-provoking insights into topics such as the adoption of digital currencies to improve commerce and governance and the use of NFTs to boost tourism.

“Bull or Bear is part of Bitskwela’s mission to help Filipinos own a piece of the internet. Our goal in these events is to bring Web3 and blockchain education to target areas where there is enough interest in emerging technology. Bitskwela envisions a Philippines where the words Bitcoin, crypto, and NFTs aren’t scary anymore for the everyday Filipino. We want cryptocurrency to be a household conversation; that’s why we’re bringing Bull or Bear to institutions such as the University of Cordillera,” Bitskwela CMO JC Macalintal added.

The Bull or Bear Baguio event was co-presented by Globe Telecom and Coins.ph, In collaboration with Polkadot, UC Innovation And Technology Transfer Office, and Bitshares Labs, along with Blockceler8 by Uniquecorn Strategies as its official PR partner. The event is also supported by NextBlock, KTX Finance, and friendzone.pro.

_____________________

About Bitskwela

Bitskwela is a Web3 EduTech company that helps Filipinos own a piece of the internet through educational engagements, management services, products, and events that foster Web3-educated decision-makers and communities.

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About Bull or Bear

Bull or Bear is Bitskwela’s flagship educational event, positioned as THE PHILIPPINE WEB3 DEBATE Bull or Bear is known in the Web3 community and is looked forward to by the Web3 community. Bull or Bear by Bitskwela has been historically part of the biggest Web3 events in the Philippines, such as last year’s Philippine Web3 Festival and Philippine Blockchain Week.

Genteel Home ushers in a new era of Filipino furnishings, unveils Heart Evangelista as newest brand ambassador

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Genteel Home, one of the country’s leading manufacturers of bespoke furniture, is on a mission to help uplift the Philippines’ home furnishing industry and put the spotlight on the exceptional talent and ingenuity of Filipino craftsmen. To pave the way, they've partnered with Heart Evangelista, the country’s top international fashion and style icon.

Host Bianca Valerio, Heart Evangelista, Genteel Home’s Katrina Blanca de Leon

On March 14, Genteel Home's Founder and Principal Designer, IDr. Katrina Blanca de Leon, proudly announced Heart Evangelista as the brand's newest ambassador. She sees Heart Evangelista as a symbol of their brand's growth and evolution. "We've been crafting beautiful furniture for over a decade, and now, with Heart on board, we're blooming like never before," Katrina said. She added that Heart Evangelista embodies everything Genteel Home stands for – passion, pride in Filipino roots, and a belief in making a mark on the world.

Looking ahead, Genteel Home is set on expanding its reach to international markets, showcasing the Philippines' rich talent in home furnishings. Heart Evangelista’s global recognition, not only for her fashion sense but also her social media influence, makes her an ideal representative for the Genteel Home's global aspirations. "Heart's involvement with Genteel Home signifies our readiness to make our mark on the international stage," Katrina emphasized.

Heart Evangelista, known for her global acclaim in the world of fashion and beauty, affirmed and expressed her admiration for the international quality of Genteel Home pieces, “Genteel Home is super at par with international furniture. Not a lot of people talk about it, that's why it’s so nice that Kat and Genteel Home are here to show the world what we’ve got. Most furniture suppliers that you see in the global scene are actually from the Philippines. We are world class. It’s important that we’re trying to celebrate that,” she said.

Genteel Home's journey began in 2013, when Katrina received a special commission that ignited her passion for furniture design. Since then, the brand has been dedicated to crafting pieces that inspire beauty and creativity in every home.

Beyond aesthetics, Genteel Home is committed to sustainability and community engagement. By investing in a Mahogany farm, they're not only ensuring a steady supply of materials but also contributing to environmental preservation and providing livelihood opportunities for local communities.

Genteel Home Collection showcase, styled by Robert Blancaflor

For Genteel Home, every piece of furniture is crafted with love and purpose. Their collaboration with Heart Evangelista represents a shared commitment to excellence, sustainability, and Filipino craftsmanship, setting the stage for an exciting future ahead.

realme UI 5.0 Early Access Program Now Available for realme 11

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Here’s a complete guide on how to join in the early access

realme has announced that its Early Access Program for the realme UI 5.0 powered by Android 14 is now available in realme 11. Users can enjoy new features, performance updates, and even maximize their overall realme 11 experience with this beta program:

●    Security and privacy: Improved photo and video-related permission management for safer access by apps

●    Performance optimization: Improved system stability, the launch speed of apps, and the smoothness of animations

●    Cross-device connectivity: Improved Shelf by adding more widget recommendations

●   Smart and efficiency: Added File Dock, where users can drag and drop to transfer content between apps and devices. Users can also use the Smart Image Matting which is a feature that can separate multiple subjects in a photo from the background for copying or sharing.

●     Updated Design: Users can enjoy a natural, gentle, and clearer color style for a more comfortable color experience, use certain ringtones and revamp the system notification sounds as well as an improved system animations by making them even smoother.

●   User Care: Adds a carbon tracking AOD that visualizes the carbon emissions that users can avoid by walking instead of driving

To be eligible to the program, users should make sure that their realme 11 has at least 60% battery and do the following steps below.

1. Update the device to the required UI version: RMX3636_11.A.15_0150_202401121416 or RMX3636_11.A.13_0130_202311291910
2. Open Developer Mode: (Settings → About device →Version → Version Number→ Click the version number for 7 consecutive times)
3. Apply for the Early Access via the Software Update Application channel: (Settings → About device → Click on the “realme UI 4.0” banner at the top → Click on the three dots in the top right corner → Beta program →Early Access →Apply Now → Submit your details and finish the apply).

Note: The applications will be accepted in batches and only limited slots are available.

realme 11 Temporary Price Drop

Fans are in for a treat as the realme 11 received a temporary P1,000 price drop. The smartphone is up for grabs for only P12,999 at offline realme stores nationwide.

For those looking for a flexible payment option, fans can avail the realme 11 via Home Credit to avail a 6-month installment program with 0% interest through initial down payment; terms and conditions apply.

The realme 11 comes in 8GB+256GB storage and is available in Glory Gold and Dark Glory colorways.

For more details about realme 11 and its Early Access Program, visit the realme official website and follow realme on Facebook.

Embracing Individuality in Education

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The age-old debate of nature versus nurture has long puzzled educators. But despite the arguments on both sides, it's generally agreed upon that a child's environment significantly shapes the development of their inherent abilities and talents. Among these environments, schools emerge as a major variable in a student's path towards success.

How a student’s environment can affect their futures.

Gillian Lynne, a celebrated choreographer renowned for her work on "Cats" and "Phantom of the Opera", provides a compelling example for the premise of nurture. In her youth, her teachers often labeled her as a troublemaker, being unable to sit still during class discussion.

However, one insightful doctor identified her as a kinesthetic learner, someone who learns through movement. Instead of shunning her behavior, she was later enrolled in a dance academy where she would eventually create some of the most successful musical theater productions in history.

The journey of Lynne underscores the significance of surrounding ourselves with people that celebrates a student's individuality and nurtures their enthusiasm for learning. By taking special care in choosing the learning environment, similar to choosing the soil in which we plant, we can help encourage our child’s individual growth.

As Sandy Arellano, currently pursuing her PhD in Education emphasized, “Grades are just one aspect of school; it is important that we are able to cultivate a culture of inclusiveness that will help bring out a child’s full potential. Unlocking capabilities and nurturing them to fruition should be the primary goal of an educator”. She highlighted how many traditional school systems tend to view students through a restricting mold into which they try to fit each student in.

It is commonplace in the Philippines for schools to typically adhere to the traditional educational system. Unfortunately, many students tend to struggle with having a smooth integration, often resulting in them feeling ignored or even experiencing depression. This would eventually lead to the potential for these student’s development to be hindered.

Conversely, schools can improve their student’s overall well-being by fostering the freedom to learn more about themselves and provide the assurance to be accepted. Embracing the diverse characteristics of each child can help previously withdrawn students come out of their shells and find confidence in themselves.

Incidentally, Arellano also serves as the principal of Montessori De San Juan (MSJ), a school that implements the Montessori Method – the same methodology under which Gillian Lynn eventually prospered. “The Montessori method emphasizes self-directed activities within a structured environment, and we complement this with a more progressive school system to foster a love for learning and self-reliance. I have personally witnessed how our student's time at school has become the highlight of their day,” Arellano explained.

While the number of positive (and often very emotional) testimonials on social media detailing the experiences of parents with MSJ are appreciated, Arellano prefers to focus more on the core mission of their school. “A lot of these testimonials share the same narrative: children who were once dejected, unmotivated, and perennially exhausted in their previous schools have a night-and-day transformation in our school. That’s the goal, of course, because learning should be fun and transformative. But I sometimes gently remind some over-eager parents that our aim is not to compare ourselves with the other so-called ‘big and prestigious schools’, but to excel on our own terms, and let the quality of our graduates speak for itself,” she enthused.

That said, employing a hybrid of the Montessori method and a progressive school system has allowed MSJ’s curriculum to stand out from the rest, as it includes personality development, etiquette, effective communication skills, leadership opportunities, as well as promoting mental and physical well-being.

The educational journey of Gillian Lynne, through the Montessori Method, and the principles upheld at MSJ serve as a reminder that when we invest in creating supportive environments for our children, we are sowing the seeds for a future where our children can wake up every morning happy and excited to learn. 

For more information on this inclusive and progressive curriculum in Montessori De San Juan, you may contact 725-6306, or visit www.montessoridesanjuan.com

It's official! 'It's Showtime' has found its new home on GMA Network, airs staring this April

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Another historical moment on Philippine television.

The momentous event between the Kapuso and Kapamilya network was held today (March 20) at GMA Network's Studio 7 as the noontime program It's Showtime inked a contract with GMA Network

.

Present during the contract signing event were GMA Chairman Atty. Felipe L. Gozon, President and Chief Executive Officer Gilberto R. Duavit Jr., Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Felipe S. Yalong, and Senior Vice President for Programming, Talent Management, Worldwide, and Support Group, and President and CEO of GMA Films Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes.

ABS-CBN Chairman Mark L. Lopez, President and Chief Executive Officer Karlo L. Katigbak, Chief Operating Officer Ma. Socorro V. Vidanes, and Group Chief Financial Officer Ricardo B. Tan Jr. were also in attendance.

It's Showtime hosts Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, Teddy Corpuz, Jugs Jugueta, Karylle, Ryan Bang, Kim Chiu, Ogie Alcasid, Amy Perez, Ion Perez, MC, Lassy, Darren Espanto, Jackie Gonzaga and Cianne Dominguez were all smiles during the event.

(Photos : Facebook)