realme combines tech and style in collaboration with local fashion brand Straightforward

Tech meets fashion as realme and local lifestyle brand, Straightforward, collaborate to showcase how the performance and design of the realme 12 Series 5G complement the boundless style of Straightforward in a series of engaging activities poised to set new trends.

During a collaborative fashion shoot, realme and Straightforward worked together to create masterful portraits where the realme 12 Pro+ 5G and the realme 12+ 5G accentuated the effortlessly chic outfits curated by Straightforward. 

Set against the dynamic cityscape as backdrop, every detail of the outfits was perfectly captured by the crystal clear 64MP Periscope Portrait Camera and 50MP Sony LYT600 OIS Camera of the realme 12 Pro+ 5G and realme 12+ 5G, respectively. Stay tuned on March 31 at 6PM on realmeofficial Facebook and YouTube pages to get a glimpse of the photoshoot outtakes.

 

The Art of Portraits powered by realme 12 Series 5G

In a separate experiential activity, realme key opinion leaders gathered for a one-of-a-kind art session called the Art of Portraits led by visual artist Joyce Ignacio as art mentor. Using art kits and the Straightforward DVL Portrait Tote Bag as canvas, the guests painted a portrait inspired by the premium vegan leather and luxury watch design of the realme12 Series 5G. Everyone was encouraged to be expressive with their artwork in order to create masterpieces that truly reflect their personality. 

The afternoon was filled with fun and camaraderie perfectly captured in photos and videos by the realme 12 Series 5G, ensuring that every smile and brush stroke was documented in stunning clarity, allowing everyone to #BeThePortraitMaster.

 

realme x Straightforward giveaway

realme Philippines is making it even easier for the Squad to hop on the realme x Straightforward hype.  To recreate the signature Straightforward look, the Squad can join the What’s in Your Bag? Top 5 Essentials Facebook giveaway to win a coveted Straightforward DVL Valore Bag. realme is choosing 12 lucky winners and to join, they must enumerate their five bag essentials in the comments section of the giveaway post from March 22 to April 12. 

That’s not all because the Squad can also cop a brand new realme 12 Pro+ 5G by joining the Portrait Master Challengeon TikTok. For the mechanics, all they have to do is film a selfie video and create 12 stunning poses using the official Portrait Master Magazine template on TikTok. The deadline for submission of entries is on March 31, and the official announcement of the winner is on April 1.

 

Ready to Be The Portrait Master?

The realme 12 Series 5G is the flagship offering of realme'spopular Number Series, known for its cutting-edge smartphone camera technology. Meanwhile, Straightforwardhas carved a niche for itself with its collection of timeless fashion pieces. Together, they form an unbeatable duo, blending state-of-the-art tech with effortless style fit for every young Filipino.  

It’s not too late to #BeThePortraitMaster because the realme12 Series 5G is still available on realme’s Lazada Flagship Store, Shopee Official Store, and official TikTok Shop. 

The realme 12 Pro+ 5G retails for P25,999 and comes in the highest 12GB+512GB storage variant available in two colorways: Submarine Blue and Navigator Beige. 

On the other hand, the realme 12+ 5G is available in two storage variants: 12GB+256GB for P19,999 and 8GB+256GB priced at P17,999. It also comes in two colorways: Pioneer Green and Navigator Beige. 

For offline buyers, they can visit any realme Store or authorized dealers nationwide to avail of the realme 12 Series 5G through easy installments at 0% interest via Home Credit.

 

Make sure to be updated with realme’s announcements and new releases by visiting its official Facebook page or website.

 

Cruel summer: What to do when the heat starts making you ill

Summer in the Philippines can be cruel and this year we’re expecting twice the heat with El Niño spiking up temperatures. As the numbers on our thermometers climb, so does the risk of succumbing to a heat-related illness like heat cramps or heat exhaustion. 

 

Some people such as children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Common symptoms of heat-related illnesses range from mild symptoms such as red and itchy skin (heat rash) to more serious ones including nausea, fainting, and muscle pains (heat stroke). For a safe and comfortable summer, Amado A. Flores III, MD of the top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) recommends brushing up on what to do when intense heat is making you physically ill. 

 

Go somewhere cooler. The most important thing to do is seek refuge in a cooler environment. “It’s ideal for you to stay somewhere with air conditioning when you start feeling unwell,” says Dr. Flores. “When that’s not an option, even somewhere with shade is much better than standing in the sun. The goal here is to help your body cool down and lower its temperature.”

 

Hydrate with electrolytes. Hydrating is also key to bringing your body temperature down so go for a cool beverage like water or even a sports drink with electrolytes. “Electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride maintain our fluid balance, facilitate nerve function, regulate muscle contractions, and support numerous biochemical reactions within our bodies. Replenishing electrolytes during a heat wave is important because we lose them when we sweat,” explains Dr. Flores

 

Cool the body. It’s also important to cool the largest organ of your body where heat escapes through—the skin. Soak a towel (or napkins or even a t-shirt) and dampen the neck, back, chest, and shoulders. According to Dr. Flores the science behind this is that the wet towel will pull heat away from your body, cooling your skin and aiding temperature regulation. “If possible, you can also try submerging your hands and feet in cold water. This is effective because the wrists and ankles have pulse points, where blood vessels are near the skin, allowing for a faster cooling process,” adds Dr. Flores.

 

But when it comes to heat-related illnesses, MakatiMed emphasizes that prevention is always better than cure. “Stay out of the sun if you can help it, especially during the hottest hour of the day at around 3 pm,” advises Dr. Flores. “If you have to go out then wear light, loose clothing and be careful not to overexert yourself.”

 

Watching what you eat and drink is also part of staving off heat-related illnesses. Eat food with high water content: pineapple, tomato, celery, cucumber, and cauliflower all go a long way in keeping your body hydrated. You should also avoid drinks with alcohol and caffeine as they act as diuretics, causing your body to shed more water than normal and speeding up the dehydration process. 

 

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

 

 

Protect your kids from common summer conditions

For a family with young kids, summer means three things. The months-long break is forever synonymous with carefree days of sleeping in and waking up late and playing in the backyard all day.

 

But summer is also the season for ailments and conditions that crop up during the searing weather.     

 

Don’t let them get in the way of your fun. Top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), through its Department of Pediatrics, enumerates summer’s most common diseases among kids and how to prevent your little ones from getting them. 

 

Skin conditions. Kids who stay out in the sun too long are bound to get one or both of these common skin conditions. “Prickly heat or bungang araw is an itchy and uncomfortable rash that develops when your sweat glands are blocked and sweat cannot rise to the surface of the skin to evaporate,” says Angelica Cecilia Tomas, MD of MakatiMed. “Adults get it, but children get it more because their sweat glands are still developing.” Apply calamine lotion or talcum powder to soothe the itchy, stinging sensation, and keep kids cool by changing them from sweaty clothes to loose, light-colored apparel. 

 

While outdoor play and more movement is encouraged for kids, it's important to be aware of the hours when sun exposure is more helpful than harmful. "Morning sunshine is still best for outdoor play.  Ask your kids to take a break from playing (or play in a shaded area) when the sun’s rays are at their most intense—between 10 am to 4 pm—and have them hydrate regularly by drinking at least 8 glasses of water, “advises Dr. Tomas. 

 

In case a child develops a painful sunburn, give him a cool bath or apply a cool compress to the sunburned area. "Applying aloe gel or topical moisturizer also helps relieve the burn."

 

 

 

Food-and-water-borne diseases. “Food poisoning is the result of consuming spoiled food and drinks. It happens more often during summer because bacteria thrive in hot weather and multiply in warm, moist places,” says Dr. Tomas. Unsanitary food handling also adds to the risk of food contamination. 

 

Upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea and fever are telltale signs of someone who may have eaten spoiled food. If a child exhibits such symptoms, “give him or her plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration,” says Dr. Tomas. And prevent food poisoning from happening in the first place. Make sure the people who prepare the food observe sanitary practices by handwashing, cook food thoroughly and consume it immediately after it’s cooked, and serve and store them in clean containers. If anything looks, smells, or tastes funny, throw it away! 

 

Measles. Otherwise known as tigdas, measles is a viral disease characterized by large, red flat blotches on the skin. The first signs of measles usually appear after 7-14 days after exposure to a person with the virus. Most common symptoms are high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes or conjunctivitis. The rash would appear after 3-5 days. 

 

According to Dr. Tomas, “In the Philippines, cases of measles reach their peak in the summer months. “It’s an airborne disease, and when a child infected with the virus doesn’t cover his mouth when he sneezes, the infected droplets spread into the air, contaminating others.” 

 

Vaccinations protect your kids from catching measles. “Ideally, the first dose should be given at 9 months, the second dose between the ages of 12 and 15 months, and the third dose between the ages of 4 and 6 years,” Dr. Tomas points out.  

 

Sore eyes. Sore eyes (conjunctivitis) is spread when your child touches his eyes after getting in contact with things (like toys) containing the eye secretions of an infected person. It can also enter your child’s eyes while he’s swimming in a poorly chlorinated pool. Symptoms include redness in the eyes, a watery or pus-like discharge in the eyes, difficulty opening the eyes in the morning, and pain when the eyes are exposed to sunlight. 

 

“If the conjunctivitis is viral and without complications, it can heal on its own within a week,” she explains. “But if it is bacterial and affects vision, see an ophthalmologist for proper assessment and medication.” 

 

“Again, hygiene is the best way to prevent sore eyes,” says Dr. Tomas. “Wash your hands regularly, don’t rub your eyes when your hands are dirty, and do not share handkerchiefs and towels.” 

 

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.8888 8999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph.

 

Taste the Fusion of 7-Eleven and SPAM® in These Newest Japanese and Korean Snack Drops

A single whiff of a golden brown-fried SPAM® can instantly bring nostalgia to any Filipino. This luncheon meat is a no-fail comfort food choice many of us reach for due to its savory flavor and because of how easy it is to prepare. But while the country has fallen in love with its rice and hot pandesal pairings, there are now more ways to savor it like the first time. Convenience go-to 7-Eleven takes it with a twist by joining hands with SPAM® for its newest delectable duo under the 7-Fresh line: SPAM® Egg and Cheese Onigirazu and  SPAM® Egg and Cheese Korean Egg Drop Sandwich.

Whether it’s the always-on-the-go, work-week warriors, or foodies who like all things trendy, 7-Eleven sure knows how to tickle everyone’s taste buds with its buck-saving and unique innovations. Just last year, the 7-Fresh line introduced its Beef Bulgogi Onigirazu and Korean Egg Drop Sandwich which both became hits. This time, customers can enjoy these goodies with another crowd favorite, SPAM®. 

 

One’s a snack and two’s a meal with SPAM® Egg and Cheese Onigirazu priced at only P79. This Japanese-originated treat is wrapped delicately with a nori sheet stuffed with fluffy eggs and mayo dressing. It’s a meaty double delight as customers can choose between SPAM® or beef bulgogi filling. A choice that is sure to solve one’s hankering for something savory.

Fans can also relish SPAM® through its Korean Egg Drop Sandwich form. Retailing for P99, the SPAM® and Cheese Egg Drop Sandwich is a popular food most often seen in K-Dramas that is filled with cheese, egg, and SPAM® in a soft, buttery brioche bread—an eggcellent symphony of Korean flavors made accessible. This, too, comes with another meat variant loaded with bacon and corn instead.

 

Industry-leading 7-Eleven is known as the paboritong kapitbahay primarily because of its creative food concepts that are easy on the pocket but big on the taste. Always exciting its  loyalists, Pinoys can now enjoy their comfort food in a can in a newer, foreign flair right at every corner of the neighborhood.

 

Take first dibs now and have a taste of SPAM® and Cheese Egg Drop Sandwich and SPAM® Egg and Cheese Onigirazu at select Luzon 7-Eleven stores.

 

Cheers to 40 years with 7-Eleven and like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok, and visit our website www.7-eleven.com.ph for more information.

A moment that changed lives

 

Amanda snaps a photo with her family as she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023.

Some moments fade with time, certain experiences leave an indelible mark, shaping not just our paths but our very identities. For Atty. Marmie Deniega and Amanda Hora, the SM scholarship application wasn't just a gateway to education; it was the moment that shaped the life they live today.

Amanda’s unforgettable story as an SM scholar began when she stumbled upon a Facebook post about the SM scholarship application.

“It has always been my dream to pursue a quality education without the burden of tuition expenses. I enrolled in a university in Senior High School because of a scholarship, and I know that the only way to continue my college years at the same university is to obtain another full scholarship. That is why I never hesitated to apply for the SM scholarship, hoping to be accepted,” she said. 

In the quiet hours of the night several years back, an email from the SM Foundation lit up her phone’s screen, informing her that she had been selected for their scholarship program.

The acceptance was a mark that she was a few steps away from fulfilling another goal: “I pursued college because I wanted to become the first in our family to get a college degree.”

The scholarship opened doors throughout her college years. Beyond the academic realm, she had the opportunities to join competitions, intern at prestigious firms, and build a network that extended far beyond the classroom. 

A family legacy, SM scholar Amanda Hora becomes the first in her family to earn a degree.

She shared: “As a scholar, the foundation’s programs and webinars allowed me to hear inspiring stories from other scholars, mentoring and motivating us to pursue our goals. When COVID-19 affected the country and whenever there were calamities, the SM Foundation looked after us. They provided us with tools that are essential for remote learning. It made me feel that I am part of a bigger family and that I am not alone in this journey.”

These experiences paved academic and personal growth. As she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023, she aims to contribute to the community by creating a ripple effect of kindness.

“I would use my knowledge to find ways to provide livelihood programs, especially in areas or communities where it is much needed. I would also advocate for financial literacy to help people effectively manage their finances and build resilience, especially during unpredictable life

“My parents did not finish their studies due to financial difficulties, but they’ve always been supportive of my dreams and aspirations. Also, I believe in the importance of quality education. It is something that nobody can take away,” she added.

The scholarship opened doors throughout her college years. Beyond the academic realm, she had the opportunities to join competitions, intern at prestigious firms, and build a network that extended far beyond the classroom. 

She shared: “As a scholar, the foundation’s programs and webinars allowed me to hear inspiring stories from other scholars, mentoring and motivating us to pursue our goals. When COVID-19 affected the country and whenever there were calamities, the SM Foundation looked after us. They provided us with tools that are essential for remote learning. It made me feel that I am part of a bigger family and that I am not alone in this journey.”

These experiences paved academic and personal growth. As she graduated cum laude with a degree in BS accountancy in 2023, she aims to contribute to the community by creating a ripple effect of kindness.

Scholar makes an impact on the community

Atty. Marmie Deniega (fifth from left) with her colleagues from IBP-Cebu Chapter.

Much like Amanda is CPA-lawyer Marmie Dyan Deniega.

Raised by a single mother amid financial struggles, the pursuit of a college degree seemed like an unattainable dream until she chanced upon a TV commercial that introduced her to the SM College Scholarship.

Recalling vividly the moment, she shares: “My mother and I were watching the television. The commercial for SM Foundation came in, and the application deadline was flashed through the screen. Coincidentally, it was on that day itself, so I rushed and submitted my application at the nearest SM Mall."

The scholarship became the cornerstone of Marmie's academic success. She graduated with cum laude honors in Accountancy from the University of San Jose-Recoletos, crediting the scholarship for providing not only financial support but also the freedom to focus on her studies. 

The scholarship not only shaped her academic journey but also fueled a sense of responsibility, which proved valuable when she pursued a law degree with the help of her aunt and part-time jobs.

Now successful in her field, Atty. Marmie travels and enjoys various leisure activities. Beyond this, she is thankful to have the capability to support her family.

Now, she proudly serves as an Attorney III at the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) of Mandaue City, actively contributing to her community's development. She is one of the people who played a pivotal role in streamlining business permit processing in their city, making it more accessible to constituents.

As a firm believer in spreading social good, she finances the education of her siblings while actively engaging in community-based projects. She also stands as a resource speaker in schools for several crucial topics, such as the Anti-Bullying Law.

Apart from legal aid work in far-flung areas in Cebu, through the Integrated Bar of the Philippines-Cebu Chapter, she also volunteers with Law Inc., an organization helping victims of Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC). She conducts seminars across various locations in Cebu, shedding light on the intricacies of VAWC.

In the confines of her office, clients naturally turn to her for legal advice, seeking guidance on various matters: “It cannot be helped that clients will also seek legal advice from me, hence I also make it a point to help them, to the best of my ability, and within the boundaries set by law."

Amanda and Marmie's stories are not just individual triumphs but testaments to the impact of education. Each year, countless dreamers like them are empowered to pursue their academic aspirations and chart their paths to success through the SM College Scholarship Program.

As the application for the SM College Scholarship Program opens from Feb. 1 to March 31, 2024, countless more lives stand to be touched. 

Elevate your daily look with Sony’s WH-CH520 wireless headphones

Headphones were once just mere audio devices, but they’re now majorly taking over the fashion scene. From making an impact on personal identity to outfit styling, headphones can now serve as a way to elevate an everyday look be it for personal expression or functionality. 

If you haven’t hopped on the trend yet, why don’t you try out Sony’s WH-CH520 wireless headphones, that is not only fashionable but extremely functional as well? It comes in four (4) colors: blue, black, beige, and white, so you won’t have to worry about matching it with any outfit. The sleek matte design enhances your daily casual or business wear, effortlessly completing every look with a put-together vibe even without trying.

For that casual work outfit

No matter how busy you may get, showing up looking all professional will definitely add to your level of confidence at work. Start with a plain mock neck tee and maxi skirt. You can either match the look with sneakers if you want it to be more casual or a simple pair of slip-on sandals for a more feminine vibe. Highlight the mock neck by accessorizing with the WH-CH520 headphones which can be worn and used throughout the day as its battery life lasts up to 50 hours and if it’s running low, a quick 3-minute charge can already give 1.5 hours of music-listening. 

 

For that smart school day look

You can go from basic to classy chic by wearing a plain and breezy polo paired with your favorite denim jeans and sneakers or loafers.

Slip on the WH to capture everyone’s attention, not only for your well-put academic look but also for that clear crisp sound powered by WH-CH520’s built-in high-quality microphone that is noise-suppressing, so you can take your online classes wherever you want! 

For that laidback errand day fit

When going out for errands, comfort is the utmost priority because any outfit complications are the last thing you’d want to deal with.

That’s why, in times like this, it’s best to stick with coordinated athleisure pieces paired with comfy sneakers or slides. But of course, the ensemble would not be complete without the trusty WH-CH520 headphones that have an adjustable headband, soft earpads, and lightweight design, allowing you to find your perfect fit and stay comfortable for longer.

 For that casual day out with friends

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things on a night out. Take your favorite pair of slacks and dress it up with an off-the-shoulder top. As for shoes, a pair of kitten heels would be a more elegant option, but you can always opt for something flat like a trendy Mary Jane, ballet flats, or even your classic white sneakers! Impress your friends with the WH-CH520 on you as you listen through your bestie’s playlist. The superior quality sound it offers lets you drown out the noises when you get stuck waiting for everyone to arrive or if you find yourself in an awkward situation.  

With endless possibilities, you can never go wrong with the Sony WH-CH520 headphones. So run, don’t walk, to your nearest Sony store and avail it now for only Php 2,499. Promo runs from April 1 to 30, 2024. 

For more product details visit: https://bit.ly/WH-CH520

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-189862 Series of 2024

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About Sony Electronics Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.  

Based in Singapore, Sony Electronics Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation. It serves as the regional headquarters for Sony’s electronics business, overseeing Asia, Middle East and Africa regions. For more information on Sony’s products and services, please visit www.Sony-asia.com.

 

About Sony Corporation

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the vision of "continuing to deliver Kando and Anshin(*) to people and society across the world through the pursuit of technology and new challenges," Sony Corporation supports the Sony Group with technology to create the entertainment of the future together with creators. For more information, visit: http://www.Sony.net/ 

 

* Both Japanese words, Kando means emotion and Anshin has various meanings such as peace of mind, reassurance, reliability, and trust.