Influencer-Approved: Discover How the realme 13 Pro Series 5G Brings High-End Photography to Everyday Moments

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September 10, 2024

Explore innovative features of realme’s next-level smartphone camera that guarantees DSLR-quality shots every time

The realme 13 Pro Series 5G ushers in a new era of ultra-clear photography, powered by its game-changing Next AI technology. This technology uses artificial intelligence (AI) to produce clearer and better photos and videos, offering DSLR-like quality in every shot.

Boasting a flagship-level Sony LYT600 OIS and 50MP Sony LYT701 OIS cameras, the all-new realme 13 Pro Series 5G has one of the best lenses on the market. It is designed with AI Ultra Clarity which is a feature that enhances photo resolution, ensuring every photograph captured is clear and crisp.

See how the realme 13 Pro Series 5G’s Camera captivates these influencers’ lifestyle content

Photographer and director John Manalo experimented with the realme 13 Pro+ 5G’s 1x and 3x Optical Zoom. He also took the smartphone on a nighttime photo walk at Bonifacio Global City to put its 3x Nightscape capabilities to the test.

The realme 13 Pro+ 5G features the Sony LYT600 Periscope Camera, which supports 120x SuperZoom in its default Street Mode. This camera uses the Sony LYT600 Sensor size that allows more light intake to capture clearer shots versus smartphones with smaller sensor sizes.

According to Manalo, “I’m amazed by its capabilities. Sometimes, the photos look like they were taken with a mirrorless camera—every shot straight from the phone. The quality is impressive, revealing the city’s charm in ways I hadn’t expected.”

TV/ Events host and content creator Angelique Manto took the realme 13 Pro+ 5G to Europe to try the smartphone’s AI Ultra Clarity. Impressed with the feature, she posted the photos on social media with the caption, “Only high-quality pics for high-quality memories.”

Angel Dei, meanwhile, brought the realme 13 Pro+ 5G to Japan. Dei shared some photos taken in Kyoto, which were all taken with no filters. Angel also used AI Smart Removal to erase distracting elements such as bystanders. AI Smart Removal easily eliminates unwanted objects for the perfect shot every time.

Get the realme 13 Pro Series 5G today

Following its Philippine launch on August 28, 2024, and its exclusive first-selling in retail and on TikTok, the Squad can now avail of the realme 13 Pro 5G and realme 13 Pro+ 5G on Shopee and Lazada, along with the latest AIoT products: the realme Buds T310 and realme Watch S2.

The realme Buds T310 elevates the listening experience with a deeper bass, a more expansive sound, and crisp vocals. realme uses intelligent algorithms for comprehensive noise cancellation, so music lovers can only hear what matters. The realme Watch S2, meanwhile, is available in silicone strap and steel strap. It features a stunning 1.43” AMOLED Display and Clear Bluetooth Calling, encased in an advanced stainless steel textured body. This combination delivers excellent performance and a luxurious feel, making it both a stylish accessory and a functional tool tracking your health and wellness journey while staying connected.

Score limited-time discounts on the latest realme products on the Shopee Payday Sale from September 13-17, 2024, and on Lazada from September 14-18, 2024. Make sure to head over to realme’s Shopee and Lazada to score discounts during the promo validity.

For more information on realme’s offers, visit the official Facebook page of realme Philippines.

About realme

realme is a global consumer technology company that has disrupted the smartphone market by making cutting-edge technologies more accessible. It offers a range of smartphones and lifestyle technology devices, boasting premium specifications, quality, and trend-setting designs, specially tailored for young consumers. Founded by Sky Li in 2018, realme quickly emerged as one of the top 5 smartphone brands in 30 markets globally within just three years. The company has expanded its footprint across multiple regions, including China, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa, amassing a global user base of over 200 million. The year 2024 marks a significant rebranding phase for realme with its new slogan, Make it real. Under this new brand spirit, realme is dedicating itself more than ever to young users, aiming to bring real, clear, and tangible benefits to their lives. For more information, please visit www.realme.com

Is It Worth Paying Php 100K for the iPhone 16 Pro?

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Lenie Lañojan

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September 10, 2024

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Apple released their latest iPhone and netizens are wondering if it’s worth the price.

The iPhone 16 Pro, Apple’s latest flagship device, was recently just unveiled with new features and an aim to be a top-tier model. In connection to that, the device also comes with a whopping Php60k price which led to the question: Is it truly worth it?

To answer this, let’s check its features to determine whether the iPhone 16 Pro justifies its astronomical cost.

The iPhone 16 Pro & Pro Max Is Designed for Apple Intelligence

Tim Cook, the CEO, shared on Monday that the latest model is designed for Apple Intelligence which means that it’s made to pair with other improved and new technologies of Apple such as their latest smartwatch and Airpods.

A18 Chip

The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will have the newest CPU which is the A18 and A18 Pro Chips; hailed as the smartest CPU in any smartphone. Each contains 6 cores which allows it faster processing and makes it energy-efficient. Therefore, this makes the latest iPhone better than the A16 and A17 chips of last year.

Camera Control

No, this is not an actual clickable button, instead, it is a recessed tactile switch which works via sensor. With a simple clicking motion or slight touch, the phone camera will immediately be launched. Aside from that, you can also use the same switch for several other controls such as zooming in and out, recording a video, changing the depth, and even modifying the exposure.

Visual Intelligence

Apple is gearing more and more into making their features AI friendly which is why their latest device now has a Visual Intelligence feature. What is it? Well, it’s somehow similar to Google Lens and Gemini Live wherein with just a click of the camera and options will pop-up related to what’s onscreen, such as a QR code for a website or other search options.

How Much is the Latest iPhone?

The prices of the latest models were disclosed by Apple on September 9, 2024 and here are the detailed prices based on its variants:

iPhone 16 (6.1-inch display)

128GB – Php 54,990.00
256GB – Php 61,990.00
512GB – Php 73,990.00

iPhone 16 Plus (6.7-inch display)

128GB – Php 62,990.00
256GB – Php 69,990.00
512GB – Php 81,990.00

iPhone 16 Pro (6.3-inch display)

128GB – Php 69,990.00
256GB – Php 76,990.00
512GB – Php 88,990.00
1TB – Php 100,990.00

iPhone 16 Pro Max (6.9-inch display)

256GB – P84,990.00
512GB – P96,990.00
1TB – P108,990.00

There’s not much known about the other specs of the new models but based on what has been highlighted by Apple, do you think it’s worth the price? Share your thoughts in the comments below, Sugboanons!

Blurred Mugshots of Quiboloy made Netizens Question PNP’s Transparency

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Lenie Lañojan

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September 10, 2024

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It’s meant to protect a suspect’s identity…

The Philippine National Police (PNP) recently released blurred mugshots of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and his constituents which then led to netizens raising questions and concerns about transparency and consistency in handling high-profile suspects.

Many netizens commented that the blurring seems to be an attempt to shield Quiboloy from further public scrutiny, especially due to his high-profile status and wide connections. This choice then led to the public believing that there is a special treatment given by the police force. Several online activists also added their own thoughts in, calling for an investigation into the PNP’s practices and urging for reforms to ensure that all suspects, regardless of their status, are treated equally under the law.

The Truth Behind the Blurred Images

In response to the backlash, the PNP shared that the decision to blur the mugshots was made in accordance with their existing protocols, specifically in line with the Commission on Human Rights which is intended to protect the privacy of individuals in legal proceedings. They said that the blurring was not meant to hide the identity of the suspects but rather to adhere to privacy and security concerns.

To address the issue, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) decided to release the uncensored versions of the photos to symbolize their transparency to the public amidst the request of Quiboloy and the other suspects to keep their faces covered.

In your opinion, Sugboanons, should the practice of blurring photos in legal cases be a standard, or should it be re-evaluated on a case-by-case basis to maintain fairness and transparency? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Balay Dako Controversy: Was It a Case of Aspin Discrimination?

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Lenie Lañojan

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September 10, 2024

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All it took was one social media post, and everything exploded between Balay Dako’s pet-friendly policy!

Photo from Lara L. Antonio’s Facebook Page

Balay Dako, a Filipino restaurant in Tagaytay City, got in trouble when a diner posted her disappointment about the establishment’s pet-friendly policy on Facebook.

Lara L. Antonio, the poster, stated, “We got turned away from Balay Dako today for what I can only guess is because Yoda is an Aspin.” Netizens were quick to comment on the incident, especially since Lara showed receipts of the restaurant’s claim in their inclusivity.

Furthermore, Lara found a photo on Balay Dako’s social media pages showing a golden retriever, indicating that they are pet-inclusive. She had dined there with her dogs without issues, so she was understandably confused about the sudden change.

Yoda and Ari, the dogs in question, were weighted average in terms of domestic Filipino breeds, which means they only weighed below 20 kg. However, the restaurant staff specified that only pets below 15 kg are permitted to enter the premises for safety reasons. To make things worse, the staff even asked, “Ano pong breed nya?” (What breed is it?), fueling the fire.

A Concern for Safety vs A Case of Domestic Breed Discrimination

As Lara spoke with the restaurant manager, she found the manager’s responses becoming even more vague in an attempt to justify the weight limitation with the statement, “The dogs allowed are shih tzus, labradors…” Lara then questioned why they allow labradors, given their average weight starts at 25 kg, as opposed to aspins, who weigh just between 9 kg and 20 kg.

“So, what’s clear to me is that THEY DECIDE. They’ll decide based on what your dog looks like. And then they’ll let you know just like that.”
Lara

In response to the incident, Balay Dako apologized on its Facebook page. They indicated that the denial of entry was simply due to their concern for the safety of their guests as there was already an animal-bite accident that occurred before with a dog of a larger size. Many reacted with laughing and angry emojis, alongside negative comments targeted towards the establishment, especially since their apology was a generic statement. The restaurant did not indicate a call to action, nor did Lara receive any personal call from them to apologize for the inconvenience.

Photo from Balay Dako’s Official Facebook Page

The pet-friendly policy is observed and posted as a way to get more people to visit establishments and companies. At this point, there are times when it just becomes a marketing tactic instead of genuine inclusivity. This incident is one example of how the fine print is essential to define a policy and protect both the company and its patrons.

So, Sugboanons, what do you think about this viral issue? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

#OMG: A Twilight Animated Series & A Phantom Opera YA Musical Movie?

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Lenie Lañojan

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September 9, 2024

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Hold on to your fangs and opera glasses, Sugboanons, because the entertainment world is getting even more interesting!

For book lovers and thespians, this double shot news might prompt an immediate “WHY?????”

Anyway, here’s what we know about the two projects at the moment:

The Sparkling POV of Edward

Now, Twilight fans will see the “skin of a killa” in animated form, as the series will focus on the POV of the great Edward Cullen, based on the “Midnight Sun” book. And since the book technically tells the story of “Twilight” via Edward, the show may not be far off from the movies we’ve seen.

Photo is generated by Canva for animated versions of Edward and Bella

The animated series promises to get deeper into the Twilight universe through Edward’s eyes. Expect fresh character development and perhaps even some episodes exploring what might have happened if Edward had taken up knitting instead of brooding. (Now I wonder if they’ll also show animated Bella twitching awkwardly) Additionally, with a different medium, the series might attract a whole new audience who might not have given vampires and werewolves a second glance in their live-action forms.

Phantom Opera: A High School Musical

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Phantom of the Opera” will be getting the High School Musical treatment as Disney produces the stage show as a musical movie to be directed by Kenny Ortega. Now, don’t get me wrong—I love Kenny Ortega and his creations such as “High School Musical” and “Julie and the Phantoms”—but we can’t deny that many recent remakes done by Disney have been pushing unnecessary changes to the point where it’s a bit unsettling to think about what might happen to the iconic Phantom and his Angel of Music, Christine. On the other hand, it is exciting to know who gets to play the characters on screen this time, especially since considering that the 2004 movie version of the show received a bit of a low rating from audiences globally.

But then again, this reimagining could open doors to younger generations who haven’t seen or have zero interest in musicals like “The Phantom of the Opera.” This could be a positive side for the theater industry. We’re just hoping that when Disney makes changes, those changes make sense in relation to the original novel and the songs created for it. Fingers crossed and here’s to hoping that the main songs won’t be sang with cursive tones!

So, Sugboanons, how do you feel about these quirky new takes on the beloved franchise and show? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Cosplay Queen, Alodia, & Husband Christopher Reveal Their Baby’s Gender

By

Lenie Lañojan

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September 9, 2024

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Alodia Gosiengfiao Quimbo, the cosplay queen of the Philippines, and her husband, Christopher Quimbo, have shared the joyous news of their baby’s gender in a sweet Instagram reel.

In the video, the couple is seen dressed in elegant all-white outfits against a golf course backdrop. The moment of revelation comes when Christopher takes a swing at a golf ball, triggering a burst of blue smoke that announces the gender of their baby: a boy!

The video shows the couple’s genuine excitement and happiness, with their outfits transitioning to shades of baby blue to celebrate the special moment. The heartfelt clip not only showed their enthusiasm but also their unique way of sharing this significant milestone with their fans.

How Alodia and Christopher Found Love

Alodia Gosiengfiao and Christopher Quimbo’s love story began on a quadruple date, where their immediate connection simply defied their contrasting personalities—Alodia, known for her introverted nature, and Christopher, the outgoing extrovert. “We just kept talking. We had a really good conversation,” Christopher shared in an interview with Dr. Vicky Belo.

Before meeting Christopher, Alodia was coming out of a long-term relationship with Wil Dasovich, which ended in November 2021. The end of that chapter left her hesitant about jumping back into the dating scene. However, her fears melted away when she encountered the kind and understanding Christopher. Their bond deepened, leading to their engagement in July 2022.

Now, as they prepare to welcome their first child, the couple’s journey continues with excitement and joy. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Quimbo on their growing family and their soon-to-arrive baby boy Q!

This App Books You a Dinner w/ Strangers in Cebu!

By

Lenie Lañojan

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September 8, 2024

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There is an app that lets you dine with strangers to make connections in the Queen City of the South!

Photo from Timeleft Official Facebook Page

Timeleft, an app that’s been in the tech world since 2020, has an algorithm that matches you with other app users based on compatibility. It typically takes just around 5 to 10 minutes to answer the initial questionnaire and then it shows you the available dates for the upcoming dinners in your city.

See you on Wednesdays at 7PM

No, this isn’t an online dating app, it’s a tool designed to help you expand your social network and make new friends, especially if you’re new to a city; perfect for travelers and newcomers.

The app personalizes your experience, too, by asking about your preferences and personality traits, including your logic, emotional stability, sense of humor, and even your zodiac sign! Dinners are scheduled every Wednesday at 7 PM.

Yes, there is a fee, which varies depending on your membership duration—whether for a month or six months. The idea is to have your weekly dinners pre-booked, ensuring a consistent social experience.

Here are a few key points to know before signing up:

Group Dining: You’ll be seated at a table with multiple people, so expect to dine with several strangers each evening.
Post-Dinner Activities: An hour after dinner begins, the app will suggest nearby bars or other venues to continue the evening, helping to keep the night lively.
Ratings: After your dinner, both you and your dining companions will have the opportunity to rate each other, providing feedback on the experience.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of meeting new people and exploring the local scene, this app offers a structured and social way to do just that.

So, Sugboanons, are you willing to try it out or is this a hard pass?

100KG Lighter: A Vlogger’s Social Experiment That’s 2 Years in the Making

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Lenie Lañojan

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September 8, 2024

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“I woke up having lost 250 pounds off my body…”

Nicholas Perry a.k.a the mukbang YouTuber Nikocado Avocado, shocked netizens on September 7 after he showed an updated video of him several pounds lighter.

Nikovado said in his video, “Today, I woke up from a very long dream, and I also woke up having lost 250 pounds off of my body… Just yesterday, people were calling me fat and sick and boring and irrelevant. People are the most messed up creatures on the entire planet, and yet I still manage to stay two steps ahead of everyone.”

Famed for devouring massive quantities of food in his mukbang videos, Nikocado Avocado recently revealed that the previous month’s videos were actually pre-recorded. This was part of a carefully planned social experiment in which he aims to present what appears to be a dramatic weight loss compared to his previous month’s footage. In reality, Nikovado had been threading the lines of his nutrition carefully and embraced better awareness on his food for 2 years to lose the unnecessary weight, as well as be a healthier version of himself.

“This has been the greatest social experiment of my entire life. It’s worrying, it’s compelling, it’s gripping to observe all these unwell, disorientated beings roam the Internet in search of stories, ideas, rivalries where they feel encouraged, engaged,” he shared.

The Dangers of Mukbang

Mukbang is a type of live-streamed or video post that shows a person consuming quantities of food that’s beyond what a normal person would eat. It is a type of audiovisual show that lets the person in the video share a meal with the audience, however, it also poses health threats to the one doing the mukbanging, such as obesity, high-blood pressure, digestive problems, and nutritional imbalance.

A Chinese influencer named Pan Xiaoting reportedly died during one of her livestreams as she attempted to eat 10 kilograms of food, while, in Iligan City, Philippines, Vlogger Dongz Apatan died of stroke after eating fried chicken.

Whether you’re a fan of mukbang or considering a weight loss journey, it’s crucial to listen to your body and approach changes with caution. Extreme measures often lead to more harm than good. Prioritize your health and well-being, and remember to make gradual, sustainable adjustments. Stay safe, Sugboanons!

The Manila Symphony Orchestra Serenaded Cebu

By

Lenie Lañojan

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September 7, 2024

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Sugboanons, were you able to witness the mini concert of the Manila Symphony Orchestra?

Photo from the Manila Symphony Orchestra Official Facebook Page

On September 6, 2024, Guang Ming College was filled with angelic tunes and goosebump-inducing melodies as the Manila Symphony Orchestra played masterfully at the Siddhartha Theater. And the best part was that the performance was free!

Under the masterful baton of conductor Jeffrey Solares, the orchestra produced a captivating program that mixed classical favorites with unique musical gems. One of the highlights included a stirring performance of “The Noble Path” from “Siddhartha: The Musical,” featuring the vocals of the play’s director, Junrey Alayacyac, and former cast members Neil Andrei Jabido and Ana Preciosa Bacalso. This performance added a personal touch to the evening, bridging the worlds of classical and contemporary theater in a showcase of artistic talents.

Photo from Junrey Alayacyac with Neil AJ & Preciosa

A Violin Lesson with the Maestro

The Manila Symphony Orchestra gifted Sugboanons not just with the chance of experiencing their live performance, but also with a valuable educational opportunity.

As part of their “Symphonic Explorations,” they conducted a specialized workshop for Cebu’s violin teachers, led by their esteemed maestro, Jeffrey Solares. Invaluable insights and techniques were offered and designed to improve the skills of advanced violinists, enriching the local music community and fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of orchestral performance.

In the end, the Manila Symphony Orchestra’s mini concert and musical workshop in Cebu was a resounding success as it brought together music lovers. So, Sugboanons, here’s to hoping that this is just the beginning of many more musical milestones to come, and many more world-renowned orchestras visiting our beloved Cebu!

#Concert: 2Ne1 Will Come Back Home!

By

Lenie Lañojan

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September 7, 2024

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It’s been a long time comin’, but they’ll be here soon!

2Ne1, the OG Kpop girl group, is coming back to the Philippines for their reunion concert tour! Their label, YG Entertainment, announced the return last Friday, September 6, 2024, and fans were thrilled!

*Photo from YG Entertainment’s X account*

The label revealed the poster of 2Ne1’s initial concert stops for their “Welcome Back” Asia Tour which included a show in Manila, Philippines this coming November 16, 2024. The show will be produced by Live Nation and further details will be released for the venue and ticket information.

2Ne1’s Going to Ring the Alarm

2Ne1, with members Sandara, Minzy, CL, and Park Bom, will be celebrating their 15th anniversary in the industry. Although they disbanded in 2016, the group remained on good terms and still cherish the songs they were able to produce and showcase globally.

Songs such as “Fire,” “I Don’t Care,” “Come Back Home,” and “Lollipop” were the hits of the group during their peak.

So, Sugboanons, are you ready for the OG’s to come back? Share with us your favorite 2Ne1 songs in the comments below!

Explore innovative features of realme’s next-level smartphone camera that guarantees DSLR-quality shots every time

See how the realme 13 Pro Series 5G’s Camera captivates these influencers’ lifestyle content

Get the realme 13 Pro Series 5G today

About realme

The iPhone 16 Pro & Pro Max Is Designed for Apple Intelligence

A18 Chip

Camera Control

Visual Intelligence

How Much is the Latest iPhone?

iPhone 16 (6.1-inch display)

iPhone 16 Plus (6.7-inch display)

iPhone 16 Pro (6.3-inch display)

iPhone 16 Pro Max (6.9-inch display)

The Truth Behind the Blurred Images

A Concern for Safety vs A Case of Domestic Breed Discrimination

The Sparkling POV of Edward

Phantom Opera: A High School Musical

How Alodia and Christopher Found Love

See you on Wednesdays at 7PM

The Dangers of Mukbang

A Violin Lesson with the Maestro

2Ne1’s Going to Ring the Alarm

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