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Online celebs share Smart ways to parent your kids in the digital age

11:43 p.m. March 21, 2025

While the internet provides kids with access to a wealth of educational materials, creative tools, and opportunities for connection,  parents still need to guide their children to safely navigate the online world.

This is why Smart is strengthening its campaign for responsible digital parenting and child protection. Recently, it gathered parents who are also content creators for a ‘Family Day’ at its flagship store in Mandaluyong City to discuss and share their best practices when it comes to guiding their kids every time they go online.

The event coincided with the launch of the Smart Junior Plan, a first-of-its-kind postpaid plan designed to enable parents and their children to stay connected while providing access to a curated suite of kid-friendly apps and a safer browsing experience with PLDT and Smart’s Child Protection Platform.

Here are some insightful parenting tips mommies and daddies can adopt to keep their children safe in the digital space:

1. Set limits to screentime and guide them on what sites are safe to visit.

Louise Santos(@mommypracticality) has sons aged 8, 14, and 21. While her two boys in high school and college can now discern which sites are safe and not, her youngest son’s use of gadgets is still regulated.

“We really talk about the sites that they can visit or not,” she shares. “That also applies to us because we have to teach by example.”

For her part, preschool teacher Celine Cornejo (@teachercelineph), who has two boys and one girl aged 2, 10, and 12, restricts her children from using their mobile phones during school nights and only allows them access on a Friday, after school, until the weekend. “Kaya kapag Friday, excited na sila.”

Meanwhile, model-turned-host Kelly Misa-Fernandez (@kellymisa) shares her nine-year-old son has had access to the Internet since he was five “but very restricted.” “We would always be watching what he would consume online and nowadays since he has school and we want him to focus on school, weekends lang pwede, unless it’s a chill week,” she says.

2. Tell kids not to talk to strangers online.

Celine also taught her children not to share their personal information such as their names, address, contact details, and passwords. On top of this, she told them her boys, who are old enough to use gadgets to “never ever talk to strangers.”

“I always remind my kids that there are people out there, they pretend to be kids, that chat with you, but in reality, they are adults,” Celine shares.

3. Teach kids that not everything they read online is true.

Celine also had a tough discussion with her kids about looking up online on her health condition. “When I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer, my husband and I talked to our kids. We told them that, ‘I know you guys are smart kids, but I know you tend to consult Dr. Google’,” she recalls.

“So, I told them that whatever you read online, it doesn’t mean that it will apply with my condition because each patient is unique. And Dr. Google, of course, is not my doctor. I have the best oncologist that they can talk to or consult with, or if they have any questions, they can ask us, their parents, so for our family, our digital measure also overlaps with our social net and emotional support,” she adds.

4. Connect before you correct.

Louise also underscored the importance of building trust with her children. “We go back to having a very honest, open communication where they see us, as parents, as their safety net. Parang tayo ‘yung safe place nila na they can call us on anything, everything kasi before you correct your children, you should first connect,” she said.

Events host Eri Neeman (@erineeman), who has an eight-year-old son, echoes Louise. “Kasi how can your children come to you kung takot siyang pumunta sa’yo? Like kung may masamang mangyari kasi parati mo siyang pinapagalitan, walang connection, walang relationship, how would I feel confident na pwedeng kausapin si Mommy, si Daddy?” Eri says.

He adds that parents also need to be self-aware and assess the parenting styles they might have inherited from their parents. “How can we heal and nurture this person kung ‘yung inner child natin hindi pa healed? Kasi you can’t pour from an empty cup, ‘di ba?”

5. Embrace technology and have fun with your kid in the digital world.

Robin Cruz, one half of the father-and-son duo of @anythingarticulated on TikTok, says that he uses the digital world to strengthen his bond with his eight-year-old kid, Gabe. “We do unboxing ng mga toys, ‘yun yung bonding namin. Ang rule lang namin, during lunch and dinner, no gadgets are allowed,” he shares.

“Na-su-supervise naman namin ano ‘yung nilalaro niya at pinapanood sa YouTube,” Robin says, who adds that him being an Elementary Education graduate also has prepared him for teaching his child, not only in academics, but also in having discipline for following rules.

Kelly relates to Robin, saying that she also geeks out with her kid. “So, when it comes to the games he plays, he likes Mario Bros. and I grew up with Mario Bros. ‘Buti na lang he likes it, hindi ko talaga pinilit, but he’s like obsessed,” she happily shares.  Kelly also learned that her son is into ’80s music when she checked her Spotify playlist, another shared interest with her kid. “So parang it’s a positive spin for me, I take it in a very positive way, but I am aware na may mga scary things out there.”

Mommy content creator Ulya Nikita (@ulyanikitaa), who is navigating parenting as a young mom using digital tools, loves the idea that her six-year-old son can now chat with her online. “Parang kinikilig ako when I get a notification – what? That’s my baby!”

Ulya admits that she found playing with her son challenging at first. “As an adult, kids’ games can be repetitive, so I always look for different ways to enjoy playtime, like instead of traditional play I like looking for video games we can play together instead.

She also emphasizes having a direct line with your kid can give you peace of mind while recalling the time she could not contact her son’s adult companion. “There was a time I could not contact his companion, and it sent me panicking. So for your small child to be able to have access to a mode of communication to you, the parent, I feel like it is so, so important,” Ulya says.

Sign up for a Junior Plan now

Available as a supplementary line to Smart Postpaid subscribers on Plan 999 and up,  the Junior Plan comes with monthly 10 GB open access data, Unli All-Net Calls and Texts, and unlimited access to the online learning platform Khan Academy, streaming apps YouTube [Kids] and Spotify, messaging apps Messenger [Kids] and Viber, and popular mobile gaming app Mobile Legends – all for only P499 per month.

The Junior Plan is made safer with Smart’s Child Protection Platform, a cybersecurity solution that works 24/7 to block access to illegal sites and links with inappropriate and abusive material, ensuring a more secure online experience for children.

In 2024, the Child Protection Platform blocked 1.6 million malicious sites and 1 million attempts by the users to try to access those sites. Smart has also blocked more than 1 million mobile numbers involved in phishing, SMShing, and Vishing activities.

“Technology is ever-evolving, and we recognize that Internet access comes with both benefits and risks, especially to children as vulnerable end-users.  As a responsible provider of connectivity, we aim to undertake safety-by-design in our products.  With our Smart Junior Plan, our goal is to keep families connected, while continuously promoting child protection and helping parents ensure a safer and better digital experience for their kids.”, said PLDT and Smart Chief Sustainability Officer Melissa Vergel de Dios.

The Junior Plan is backed by Smart’s superior mobile network, which empowers subscribers to upload and download heavy files in seconds, browse the web instantly, stream videos seamlessly, and enjoy lag-free mobile games. Know more about the Junior Plan at www.smart.com.ph/Postpaid.#

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TECHNOLOGY

Pre-order vivo V50 Lite until April 25 to enjoy exclusive perks

1:30 p.m. April 18, 2025

There’s a new must-have phone in town and it’s Maine Mendoza-approved. Meet the all-new vivo V50 Lite with features that are perfect for go-getters, creatives, and trendsetters.

Whether you’re a heavy user or someone who’s always on the go like Maine, the massive 6500mAh BlueVolt battery will keep you powered all day. And when it’s finally time to recharge, vivo’s 90W FlashCharge ensures you’re back to full power in a flash. It’s no wonder this is Maine’s latest favorite!

But the vivo V50 Lite isn’t just about battery life. It’s built to impress from the inside out.

What makes the vivo V50 Lite a game-changer?

  • SGS Five-Star Drop Resistance – Engineered for durability so you can stay worry-free even during accidental drops.
  • IP65 Dust and Water Resistance – Ready for unpredictable weather and everyday mishaps.
  • 60-Month Smooth Experience – Enjoy reliable performance that lasts for five years.
  • AI SuperLink – Stay connected even in weak signal areas with this smart, always-on connectivity solution.
  • 50MP Sony IMX882 Camera with Aura Light – Capture vibrant, clear, and well-lit photos even in low light.
  • 120Hz Ultra Vision AMOLED Display – See and scroll with incredible clarity and smoothness.
  • Dual Stereo Speakers with up to 400% Volume – Experience rich, immersive audio whether you’re watching or listening.

Choose the right vibe for you

The vivo V50 Lite comes in three powerful variants to match your lifestyle:

  • 8GB RAM + 256GB ROM (4G) – Php 13,999
  • 8GB RAM + 256GB ROM (5G) – Php 16,999
  • 12GB RAM + 512GB ROM (5G) – Php 19,999

Until April 25, vivo fans who pre-order the V50 Lite will enjoy exclusive perks:

  • Php 1,000 Off
  • Limited Edition vivo Buds
  • vivo VIP Card with 5-year battery warranty and 6 months extended warranty

Visit any vivo store nationwide and secure your vivo V50 Lite today. Don’t miss out as this is your chance to own the phone that’s not only smart and stylish, but also Maine Mendoza’s top pick for 2025.

The vivo V50 Lite: power meets beauty. Pre-order yours now!

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TECHNOLOGY

Samsung unveils epic screens for the ultimate gaming experience

5:19 p.m. April 8, 2025

As the Philippine gaming community continues expanding rapidly, the urge for top-tier gaming displays has never been greater. Samsung stands at the forefront, unlocking a new phase of gaming for Filipinos through its Odyssey lineup that is set to take users beyond reality.

Samsung’s gaming monitors deliver unparalleled speed, precision, and immersion from the revolutionary glasses-free Odyssey 3D to the ultrawide Odyssey G9 and the industry-first 4K, 240Hz OLED G8. 

A New Dimension in Gaming with the Odyssey 3D

The 27-inch Odyssey 3D (G90XF model) monitor introduces a next-level 3D experience, without the need for special glasses. By combining advanced eye-tracking with a lenticular lens, it delivers vibrant, lifelike 3D visuals through Samsung’s Reality Hub app. 

Samsung has collaborated with top developers like Nexon (The First Berserker: Khazan) and Neowiz (Lies of P, Overture DLC) to ensure seamless 3D optimization. The built-in AI-powered 3D conversion enhances both gaming and video content, supported by a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms Gray-to-Gray (GtG) response time for fluid, responsive performance on its 4K screen. AMD FreeSync™ Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility eliminate choppiness and lag, even during fast-paced action.

For deeper immersion, Edge Lighting adapts to in-game visuals, illuminating the gaming space with synchronized ambient colors that amplify the 3D visuals and bring game environments to life. 

Stunning OLED Brilliance with the Odyssey OLED G8

Available in 27” and 32”, the Odyssey OLED G8 sets a new standard for gaming displays. It features the industry’s highest pixel density for a 27” display, paired with the world’s first 4K resolution monitor with 240Hz refresh rate, delivering unmatched fluidity and responsiveness. 

Its quantum dot technology and VESA DisplayHDR™ TrueBlack 400 ensure vivid colors and deep contrasts. Built for long-term durability, it features dynamic Cooling Safety and Samsung OLED Safeguard+ to prevent burn-in and ensure prolonged performance. 

Other standout features include AI image upscaling, customizable Core Lighting+, and a sleek metal design, making this monitor as stylish as it is functional. Glare-free technology, certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), reduces screen reflections, while the AI processor optimizes lower-resolution content for the full 4K experience.

Expanding Horizons with the Odyssey G9

With its expansive 49” Dual QHD curved display and Picture-in-Picture features, the Odyssey G9 (G91F model) is ideal for immersive gameplay and multitasking. The HDR10+ GAMING supports optimized brightness and color range for a dynamic picture. A 144Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro guarantee smooth, vibrant gameplay. The Odyssey G9 also streamlines gaming access with Auto Source Switch+, automatically detecting connected devices and displaying them as soon as they are powered on, making gaming setups more effortless.

Unleash Victory with your Next Phase of Gaming

The advanced features and seamless connectivity ensure Filipino gamers stay ahead in the rapidly evolving gaming landscape. Each movement is presented with accuracy, giving players a clear competitive advantage, because when it comes to gaming, second best is never an option.

Pre-order Samsung’s Odyssey monitors until April 19, 2025 and enjoy exclusive discounts and perks. Early bird customers receive PHP 3,000 worth of e-vouchers, along with special deals such as up to Php 27,600 on the 32” Odyssey OLED G8,  Php 19,800 off on the 49” Odyssey G9, and Php 45,850 off on the 27” Odyssey 3D. Elevate your gaming setup and seize the victory you’ve been striving for.

To know more about Samsung’s latest gaming technology, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/monitors/odyssey-gaming-monitor/.

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TECHNOLOGY

DigiPlus bags 7 wins at 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards

3:56 p.m. April 4, 2025

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. (DigiPlus), the pioneer in digital sports and entertainment in the Philippines and the company behind leading gaming brands such as BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, won seven honors –  including five coveted gold awards – at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards. 

This milestone places DigiPlus among the most awarded companies in the region this year, spotlighting its strategic growth and transformative impact across digital entertainment, social development, and investor relations. 

The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards are the only business awards program that recognizes innovation across all 29 markets in the region. Widely regarded as the world’s premier business awards, the Stevie Awards represent a prestigious recognition of business excellence. 

DigiPlus bagged five Gold Stevies for ‘Innovative Achievement in Growth’, ‘Innovation in Investor Relations’, ‘Excellence in Social Impact Companies’, ‘Innovation in Annual Reports’, and ‘Innovation in Corporate Websites’. The company also clinched Silver and Bronze Stevies for ‘Achievement in Product Innovation’ and ‘Innovation in Brand Renovation’ respectively. 

At the core of these wins is DigiPlus’ commitment to innovation and digital transformation. From redefining the player experience through localized and immersive content, to launching a refreshed brand identity that resonates with a more connected and tech-savvy user base, DigiPlus has embraced a future-forward mindset. The company’s calculated investments in big data, cutting-edge technologies, and stakeholder engagement have not only fueled business growth, but also opened inclusive pathways to digital participation through its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation. 

“This momentous victory at the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards affirms DigiPlus’ emergence as a true powerhouse of innovation and progress, reshaping industry boundaries and redefining digital consumer engagement on a global scale,” said DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco. “Through consistent growth and business performance, DigiPlus reaffirms its unwavering commitment to creating long-term value.”

Winning entries in the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards undergo a rigorous, multi-layered evaluation by an esteemed panel of judges composed of business and industry leaders across the region. “The 12th Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards received an impressive array of outstanding entries,” said Maggie Miller, President of the Stevie Awards. “This year’s winners have clearly shown their dedication to innovation, and we commend their resilience and imaginative efforts.”

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