realme 12 5G Launches in the Philippines, Priced at P14,999

The Squad can shop on TikTok or authorized stores nationwide to get exclusive freebies during the first selling period

 

The anticipated realme 12 5G is now available in the market, selling first on TikTok Shop and authorized offline stores nationwide. The device is the third release under the latest realme 12 Series 5G. 

Among other mid-range smartphones, the realme 12 5G offers a competitive camera, a sleek design, and a range of quality-of-life features that enhance user experience, putting it on par with more expensive competitors. 

Just like its predecessors, the realme 12 5G has the mainstay features of a Trendy Watch Design but the highlight is the two new stunning colors: Twilight Purple and Woodland Green in a glossy and iridescent finish. 

The device has a 108MP 3x Zoom Portrait Camera that supports 3x In-Sensor Zoom and Cinematic 3x Portrait Mode to take beautiful, high-resolution photos in any setting. To make photos and videos more irresistible, it has camera features exclusive to its series: the Cinematic Bokeh Algorithm that intelligently adjusts blur and lighting, and the built-in Master Portrait Filters. 

Additionally, the 6.7” 120Hz Sunlight Display provides a high refresh rate, an FHD+ Resolution, and a 91.4% Screen-to-Body display ratio. Toggling the “Extra Brightness” in the display settings activates Sunlight Mode, allowing the device to reach up to 950 Nits of brightness perfect for outdoor use. 

Poised to make waves as the fastest-selling device in the series, the realme 12 5G is available in a single 8GB+256GB storage variant retailing for P14,999.

 

Early bird buyers get exclusive freebies

The Squad can win exciting TechLife and realme freebies when they buy the realme 12 5G at any realme Official Store nationwide during the first selling period from April 26 to May 5.

During this time, early bird buyers can get a Mystery Gift Box with freebies worth up to P24,999. Some of the items included are a realme Pad LTE in 4GB+64GB storage variant, TechLife Notebook, TechLife Multi-Capsule Coffee Maker, TechLife Wireless Headphones, TechLife Desk Lamp, and TechLife Portable Steam Iron. 

The Squad can also participate in the Lucky 12 challenge happening at select realme concept and kiosk stores during the Lucky Hour time slots of 11am to 1pm and 4pm to 6pm on the following dates:  April 26-28 and May 3-5. 

With over P600,000 worth of prizes up for grabs, the Squad can take home various items such as a TechLife 4L Digital Rice Cooker, TechLife Wireless Mouse, TechLife Desk Lamp, or TechLife Multi-Sleeve Laptop Bag.

These first-selling promos are available for a limited time only so the Squad better hurry if they want to cop these exclusive items along with their realme 12 5G. 

 

First on TikTok Shop

Good news for online shoppers, the realme 12 5G is launching first online on TikTok Shop for a special discounted price, with exclusive TechLife and realme freebie sets. To avail of the discount, the Squad must use vouchers exclusively distributed during the official live selling events. To secure these vouchers, tune in to the following live selling schedules:

TikTok Page	Date & Time	Freebie Set
James Afante	April 25, 7:30PM	TechLife Cooling Fan + TechLife 4.5L See-Through Air Fryer
		realme Buds T100 + TechLife 4.5L See-Through Air Fryer
		TechLife Portable Steam Iron + TechLIfe Electric Kettle + TechLife Portable Electric Pot
Iwa Moto	April 27, 7:00PM	TechLife Electric Kettle + TechLife Portable Steam Iron
realme Philippines	April 25 - 30	realme Pocket Bluetooth Speaker + TechLifeCooling Fan

 

Rest assured, the Squad can still snag discounts and freebies once the realme 12 5G arrives on Shopee and Lazada on May 5-10, ensuring everyone gets a chance to grab exclusive deals. 

To keep posted on other announcements about the realme 12 5G, visit the realme official website and Facebook page.

 

Discover How Purpose, Passion, Play, and Profit Define a Brighter Future as a Sun Life Financial Advisor

Sun Life Philippines, the No. 1 life insurance company in the country in terms of premium income[1], net income[2], and total assets[3], is hosting a series of recruitment events for Financial Advisors called the Live Brighter Forum in select cities nationwide. 

The series of Live Brighter Forums aims to amplify “The Next Big Gig”, a campaign that invites Millennials and Gen Zs to become a Sun Life Financial Advisor as their next income generating gig. It will kick off at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City on April 27, and continues at the Zuri Hotel in Iloilo City on May 11, SMX Convention Center at Pasay City on May 18, and Laus Group Events Centre in San Fernando, Pampanga on June 15.

Potential candidates joining the event can expect to learn more about how being a Sun Life Financial Advisor can give them unlimited income opportunities, the freedom of time, and help develop a sense of purpose as they help their clients achieve a more secure and brighter life. Real-life stories from Sun Life Financial Advisors will also be shared.

Attendees can also participate in activity booths that simulate the experiences of a Sun Life Financial Advisor. These include the “Next Big Quiz,” a quiz booth that challenges the attendees’ knowledge on life insurance; the “Next Big Destination,” an international-themed photo wall which represents the travel incentives of Sun Life advisors; and the “Next Big Project,” a booth that showcases the advisors’ corporate social responsibility activities where participants can also vote on the project advisors should support next. Exclusive Sun Life merchandise and other exciting prizes await those who will give the booths a try.

Those interested to join any of the Live Brighter Forums can get in touch with a Sun Life advisor or visit www.sunlife.co/gigto know more.

National Teachers College and APEC Schools Merger Ushers in a New Era for Philippine Education

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In an ambitious move to reshape the educational landscape, the National Teachers College (NTC) and APEC Schools have officially merged to form a stronger education powerhouse.

Approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission in late 2023, the merger combines the strengths and resources of both institutions to provide quality and accessible education to more students. NTC, with a 95-year track record of excellence in teacher education, will bring experience, while APEC, known for its innovative and progressive teaching methods, will bring fresh ideas and modern approaches to education. This merger has paved the way for NTC SmartClass, blending traditional wisdom with modern technology.

Introducing the NTC SmartClass Homeschooling Program 

During the pandemic, many families opted for homeschooling as a safer alternative to traditional schooling due to concerns about health, flexibility, and personalized learning. As a response to the widespread adoption of homeschooling, NTC SmartClass was introduced in 2023. This program recognized the need for flexible and comprehensive educational solutions tailored to meet the needs of modern-day families. It builds upon the innovative foundations of online learning during the pandemic, retaining the core of progressive teaching methods while incorporating deep educational insights and expertise from NTC's long-standing tradition of excellence.

NTC SmartClass, the homeschooling program of the National Teachers College for Kinder to Grade 10, prioritizes each student's unique learning styles, paces, and interests. This approach is grounded in the understanding that a one-size-fits-all model of education is not only outdated but also ineffective in nurturing every learner's full potential.

The program offers flexible study schedules using a learning-by-doing approach. NTC SmartClass gradually forms skills, helping learners understand and retain information effectively as they develop a love for learning. To accelerate student learning and increase student engagement, NTC SmartClassuses a collaborative environment between Parents, Subject Matter Experts, and Academic Advisers — forming a “triangle of support”.

"During the first year, we observed that NTC SmartClasshomeschoolers appreciate the additional layers of support that other homeschooling programs do not provide,” says Mark Sy, Chief Learning Officer at APEC SChools. “The triangle of support ensures that we support each homeschooler along the way and that no one gets left behind, which fosters a love for learning."

Inclusive Flexible Education for Filipino Learners

This merger has paved the way to a more inclusive homeschooling platform for wider socioeconomic classes nationwide, as NTC SmartClass aims to expand its target market.

In the Philippines, educational disruptions due to external factors like severe weather conditions, natural disasters, and health outbreaks are not uncommon. In these situations, homeschooling stands out as a solution that guarantees continuous education without any interruptions.

However, many Filipinos remain skeptical about the viability of homeschooling, largely due to perceived financial barriers. Many homeschooling programs in the Philippines have a base fee for basic services, then charge additional fees for essential elements like assessments, educational materials, and learner support services. These added costs can significantly increase the financial burden on families. 

NTC SmartClass aims to break this barrier by offering a flat, affordable rate that ensures homeschoolers can access all the necessary resources and support to thrive academically. The program offers a range of curriculum add-ons at an extra fee, but they are entirely optional, allowing families to tailor the educational experience to their child's interests and needs without feeling pressured by mandatory costs. From comprehensive assessment tools to a wide range of learning materials and dedicated support services, SmartClass makes high-quality flexible education attainable for more Filipino families.

"Amidst the changing education landscape and increasing environmental hazards in the Philippines, homeschooling is an excellent alternative to traditional schooling,”  says Pam Wu, Executive Vice President of NTC. “NTC SmartClassemerges as a beacon of personalized learning, offering flexible, safe, and accessible quality education parents seek for their children.”

Beat the Summer Heat: Delicious and Healthy Eats to Keep You Cool

The sun is blazing, the days are long––summer is finally here! But with the heat comes the challenge of staying cool and energized. Fear not, fellow foodies! Here is your one-stop shop for conquering summer with delicious and healthy eats, all available for delivery through the foodpanda app.

Perfect platter for picnic thrills

 

Forget the hours spent slaving over a hot stove for a picnic. Take the stress out of meal prep with Manam's Super Benta Box Filipino favorite Kare-kare with melt-in-your-mouth oxtail, or Crispy Pata with a fiery garlic chili kick! Craving American classics? Tender Bob's Party Trays has you covered with Buffalo Chicken Fingers, Pork Ribs, and sizzling Sisig Angus Beef on the menu.

(Photos from Manam - SM Megamall delivery in Mandaluyong City| Food Delivery Mandaluyong City | foodpanda & https://www.foodpanda.ph/restaurant/r1rg/tender-bobs-ortigas)

 

Healthy doesn't have to be bland

 

Beating the heat while staying fit? Feel Good Food Group offers guilt-free summer delights with their Sicilian Chicken Salad, bursting with fresh herbs and a creamy Romaine Caesar, proving healthy salads can still be appetizing. YourOptions ToBeHealthy Bunch Deal complements perfectly––a refreshing veggie salad and protein-packed egg sandwich duo for any summer adventure.

(Photos from https://www.foodpanda.ph/restaurant/d7ur/feel-good-food-group-pasig & https://www.foodpanda.ph/restaurant/yx8c/youroptions-tobehealthy-maceda-street)

 

Hydrate with tasty drinks

No summer is complete without thirst-quenching drinks. Babot’s Farm - Fruitas Drinks offer the natural sweetness of fresh fruit with their Coconut and Watermelon Juice. And for the coffee lovers, Daily by Bo’s Coffee got your back with their Iced Creamy Latte or a Froccino Cookies N' Cream for a frosty, blended sip.

(Photos from  https://www.foodpanda.ph/restaurant/tzvk/babots-farm-fruitas-building & https://www.foodpanda.ph/restaurant/afr7/daily-by-bos-coffee-capitol)

Still parched? Treat yourself to Dairy Queen's cooling Blizzards or savor Coco Fresh Tea & Juice milk tea selections. Don’t forget Zagu’s chilly pearl shakes to satisfy your thirst in this scorching heat! 

 

 

(Photos from https://www.theagencyre.com/blog/dairy-queen-opens-doors-to-first-nyc-location/, https://www.foodpanda.co.th/restaurant/kdv7/coco-fresh-tea-and-juice-the-emquartier, & https://www.facebook.com/zagupearlshakes/posts/craving-for-something-fruity-hurry-to-your-nearest-zagu-store-and-make-your-day-/2431905683535484/) 

 

As a special treat, use the voucher code COOLERS to enjoy a refreshing ₱150 discount on delivery, pickup, and groceries (promo ends May 31st) – indeed the best way to cool down!

 

 

Summer’s calling! With this abundance of delicious options, you're all set to conquer summer with a full belly, heart’s content, and the energy to make the most of this glorious season. A world of savory awaits on the foodpanda app. Now get out there and defeat the summer heat––responsibly, of course!

 

Win Big with PLDT Home This Summer: Upgrade Your Home, Shop for Essentials, and Enter to Win a P100,000 Shopping Spree

Summer is the perfect time to upgrade your home, shop for school or work essentials, or simply stock up your pantry. This summer, PLDT Home gives you more reasons to make the most out of your upgrade or purchase with a chance to win a P100,000 shopping spree.

PLDT Home’s Shopping Spree Upgrade promo gives you a chance to win a shopping spree experience at SM Store Megamall, with SM gift passes worth up to P100,000 to one lucky winner; P50,000 SM Gift Passes to two winners; and P25,000 SM Gift Passes to four winners.

 

Reward yourself with an upgrade and shopping spree

There are many ways PLDT Home subscribers can earn raffle entries for the chance to win this experience of a lifetime. First, you can upgrade your current PLDT Home Fiber plan to enjoy a 

leveled-up digital experience at home—from streaming their favorite movies and series, playing games with friends, to getting office and schoolwork done in a jiffy and more.

 

Enjoying your fiber fast speeds? You can still earn an entry when you get at least two (2) units of a WiFi Mesh System. You can choose between the latest TP-Link X55 WiFi6 mesh if you and your family are into heavy bandwidth activities like simultaneous streaming and gaming, or TP-Link Deco M4 WiFi5 Mesh if you have simpler WiFineeds like boosting WiFi in all corners of yourhome.

 

Finally, if you’relooking for ways to enjoy unli-entertainment, youcan also earn raffle entries by subscribing to a CignalTV Postpaid Plan, upgrading an existing CignalTV Plan, or availing of the newly launched PLDT Home StreamTV Android TV Box– a smart speaker that can also turn a regular TV into a smart TV.

 

Seven (7) winners will be selected by an electronic raffle draw on May 6 and will have the shopping spree experience in SM Store Megamall on June 4, 2024. The SM Gift Passes can be used in all SM Store affiliates like theSM Store, SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, Uniqlo, Bata, Savemore Market, Under Armour, Forever21, Waltermart, Levi’s Surplus, Brownies, Watsons, Our Home, Ace Hardware, Crate & Barrel, The Body Shop, Innisfree, Miniso, Pet Express, Kultura, Sports Central, Baby Company, Crocs, and Toy Kingdom. Winners may also opt to use the SM Gift pass winnings to book stays at Pico Sands Hotel, Conrad Manila, Taal Vista, Park Inn by Radisson Hotel, and Radisson Blue Hotel.

 

Be one of the lucky seven winners and shop for everything you want and need this summer, all courtesy of PLDT Home! PLDT Home’s Shopping Spree Upgrade promo runs until April 30, 2024. To learn more, visit https://pldthome.com/shopping-spree-promo.

Yee Pioneers Likha Collab: Unveiling an All-Filipino Natural Marketplace

Living sustainably means making choices that align with a healthier planet and a healthier lifestyle. In today's consumer-driven society, one of the most impactful choices we can make is opting for products that are toxin-free and organic.

Pioneering a new era of conscious consumerism, Pinky T. Yee, the visionary behind Pure Essentials Specialist Corp (PESC), introduced Likha Collab to the public sphere on Monday in celebration of Earth Day. This breakthrough e-commerce marketplace is designed to collaborate with Filipino micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME’s) in showcasing their products to a wider audience.

Left to right; Abdul Paravengal,- Pulse63 Managing Director, Czar Carbonel - Magwai Organics founder; Pinky T. Yee, Likha Collab and Pure Essentials Specialist Corp. founder; MG Claveria representative of Human Nature; Trixie Odiamar, Isarog Beautanics founder; Marvin Chua, Wonderhome Naturals founder; and Paulo Campos - Kaya Founders Managing General Partner, and Pulse63 Ventures Founding Partner

Partnered with Pulse63, a health-focused business accelerator, Yee conceptualized the marketplace as a vetted space for local entrepreneurs and business owners who champion the cause of sustainability, environmental consciousness, and label transparency, while adhering to regulatory guidelines.

Yee expressed her vision for Likha Collab to emerge as the preferred destination for enthusiasts of natural living and advocates of local businesses. The innovative space, she added, was borne out of her “desire to help bring Earth-friendly Filipino-made brands and to transform every Filipino home to conscious and biodegradable living.”

According to Abdul Paravengal, Managing Director of Pulse63, Yee’s advocacy towards healthy living and showcasing selected home-grown brands were among the key factors that led them into collaborating with Likha Collab, empowered by their accelerator program.

 

Yee also underscored the importance of label literacy and consumer awareness. “We vet our partner brands rigorously, ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies, accurate labeling, and of course, the exclusion of harmful ingredients in their products,” she remarked.

 

In addition to the marketplace, Likha Collab also launched alongside its accompanying Facebook community, Eco Friends PH, to serve as a platform for individuals embarking on their sustainable living journey. The interactive space serves to inspire and facilitate discussions among consumers and like-minded advocates. It also aspires to become an avenue for industry experts from the medical and business sectors to promote awareness and respond to forums.

 

Among the pioneer brands that joined the mission of Likha Collab are Oryspa, Human Nature, Magwai, Wonderhome Naturals, Pure Culture, and Isarog. Additionally, the marketplace also includes LivClean, First Skincare, and First Botanicals as its house brands.

 

"We extend an open invitation to local MSMEs to join us in our commitment to provide homes with products that are free from toxic chemicals, safe for all ages, and beneficial for both the family and the planet," concluded Yee.

 

Join the movement in making better and responsible choices, and explore Likha Collab’s offerings by visiting www.likhacollab.com.