TECHNOLOGY
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.#
TECHNOLOGY
All-new MacBook Neo launches at Power Mac Center
9:22 p.m. April 24, 2026
Premier Apple partner Power Mac Center (PMC) unveiled the all-new MacBook Neo in a fun and vibrant simultaneous launch in Greenbelt 3 and SM Megamall.
Customers who joined the launch received the event exclusive bundle including an AirPods Pro 2 and AirTag 4-pack, stackable with over P12,000 worth of freebies for those with qualified pre-orders. In addition, those in Greenbelt 3 and SM Megamall who lined up until 7PM also got a chance to win up to P600,000 worth of prizes (P300,000 per location).
While attendees were the first to access exclusive perks, PMC is extending its opening promotions over the coming days, ensuring more customers can take part in the excitement.
“We are taking Apple fans on a lifestyle journey worthy of the anticipation for the new MacBook Neo. With every device Power Mac Center launches, we make sure our customers know we stand behind their purchase, helping them choose better, set up faster, and get more out of what they’re upgrading to,” PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management Joey Alvarez.
Mac&Me: Easy to use and easy to own, Made for More
As the premier Apple partner in the Philippines, PMC extends its expertise to support customers, reinforcing how the Mac is made for more than ordinary, with powerful capabilities in completing tasks both for work and play.
Now available in all Power Mac Center stores nationwide, the MacBook Neo is easy to use and easy to own with these exclusive offers. Terms and conditions apply.
- Accessories: Enjoy up to 50% off on a wide selection of accessories until April 30, 2026. This offer is valid for straight payments only and is available with any MacBook Neo payment option.
- 1 Infinite: As a limited “double burn” offer (1 point = P2) from PMC’s loyalty program 1 Infinite, members can redeem up to 2,500 points (P5,000 off), with no minimum spend required. This offer is applicable to both device and accessory purchases and is valid from April 23 to 26, 2026 only.
- UpTrade: Score up to P4,000 in additional trade-in value when you trade in your MacBook Air (M2 or earlier) and upgrade to the all-new MacBook Neo or MacBook Air (M5) from April 23 to May 10, 2026. Offer available at all Power Mac Center stores nationwide.
- Mobile Care and Basecamp: Customers who purchase the MacBook Neo until April 30, 2026 can also receive a 90-day complementary software fix from Mobile Care Service Center, PMC’s official service arm, and free training for MacBook Neo + AI Toolkit for Beginners provided by Basecamp, PMC’s official training arm.
- To avail the free training, please register here <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe_z0LeHOubTSrH4guDE7H1gaZICevgaQ15fF0tqxI7CB-aQw/viewform>.
- Partners: Get special Grab vouchers on purchases of the MacBook Neo until April 24, 2026.
- Education, SMB, and Enterprise: PMC also offers special Education pricing for students and members of the academe. Meanwhile, businesses and organizations looking to boost their operational efficiency and service delivery can approach any PMC store for a consultation on Apple integration.
Get the best deals with your cards and credit providers
Major bank and non-bank financial institutions offer flexible payment options of up to 36 months installment, 0% interest, Buy Now Pay Later modes, cashbacks, and bonus Power Mac Center Gift Certificates. Do note that these offers are available via in-store purchases only. Check with your financial providers for the full mechanics.
Before completing your purchase, make sure you’re a member of 1 Infinite. To join, download the 1 Infinite app in the App Store <http://bit.ly/4hljdr2> or Google Play <https://bit.ly/42ovsyK> and create an account or log in using your registered email address.
Present your membership when transacting in stores or input details in the Web Store <powermaccenter.com> to earn points, redeem rewards, and enjoy perks from Basecamp and Mobile Care. For full details, visit the site <https://powermaccenter.com/pages/1-infinite>.
Live launch with musical sets and interactive games
The MacBook Neo introduction unfolded as a full launch experience, with performances and interactive activities energizing the crowd before the official unveiling. Headlined by DJs Vernard Tan (in Greenbelt 3) and Ailishia (in Megamall), the shows set the tone for the night designed to engage this generation of tech consumers.
The event was supported by Power Mac Center’s brand partners Belkin, STM, BPI, UnionBank, and Home Credit, as well as Shokz, in partnership with 1 Infinite.
Don’t miss exciting announcements and special promos! Follow the OFFICIAL Power Mac Center accounts on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, Viber, and YouTube.
#PMCExperience #MacMadeForMore
TECHNOLOGY
Xiaomi Fan Festival 2026 brings April deals across phones, pads, and smart devices
9:30 p.m. April 12, 2026
April is one of the better times this year to look at a Xiaomi upgrade. Xiaomi Fan Festival, the brand’s annual celebration for its fans; is now live in the Philippines under the theme “Smart Living, Made Yours,” running through April 30 at Xiaomi Authorized Stores, participating multi-brand retailers, and Xiaomi community channels.
The campaign spans the full lineup: phones from flagship to entry-level, tablets, wearables, TVs, and more. Most buyers will find at least one clear entry point.
Smartphones
At the top of the range is the Xiaomi 17, priced at ₱55,999 with a free Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Pro. For buyers who want a strong performer without going all the way to the flagship tier, the Xiaomi 15T Pro is available at ₱39,999 with a free Xiaomi Backpack, and the Xiaomi 15T comes in at ₱26,999 down from ₱28,999, with a free Xiaomi Neck Pillow.
The REDMI Note 15 Series covers the mid-range with four variants and a consistent Home Credit angle: shoppers can get an exclusive ₱500 discount per unit on any REDMI Note 15 Series device via Home Credit 0% interest installment plan, and a free month on Viu Premium. The REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G is priced at ₱27,999 with a free Xiaomi umbrella, the REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G starts at ₱19,999 with the same freebie, and the REDMI Note 15 5G runs from ₱14,999. At the most accessible end, the REDMI 15 starts at ₱8,999; a practical everyday pick for students and first-time buyers.
Pads
The Xiaomi Pad 8 Pro at ₱38,999 and the Xiaomi Pad 8 at ₱29,999 each come with the keyboard already in the box, plus a free Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Active, boasting a more complete setup from day one, whether the use case is work, school, or content. Both are also available via Home Credit 0% interest installment.
Below those, the REDMI Pad 2 lineup offers three tiers: the REDMI Pad 2 Pro 5G from ₱19,999, the REDMI Pad 2 Pro from ₱15,999, and the REDMI Pad 2 from ₱10,999 which gives students and households a range of screen sizes and specs without stepping into premium territory.
Wearables, TVs, and more
The wearables selection runs wider than the headline picks. The Xiaomi Smart Band 10 is available in Standard (₱2,699) and Ceramic Edition (₱3,799), with the Xiaomi Smart Band 10 Pro at ₱3,899 for buyers who want more. On the more accessible end, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Active is ₱1,399, and the REDMI Watch 5 Active comes in at ₱1,899. The REDMI Watch 5 is priced at ₱2,899.
For the living room, the Xiaomi TV A Series starts at ₱8,990 for the 32-inch and ₱12,990 for the 43-inch. Also in the lineup: the REDMI Buds 8 Lite at ₱1,299 and the Xiaomi Power Bank 10000mAh at ₱1,099.
Payment options
The Home Credit ₱500 discount is applicable to the REDMI Note 15 series while all smartphones and pads will come with 0% interest installment and Viu Premium 1-month voucher offer. That offer runs from April 1 to June 30, 2026; well past the main XFF window, giving you more time to sort out a payment plan before committing.
The deals listed here cover the main highlighted offers, but the full XFF 2026 lineup is broader. For complete mechanics, freebie eligibility per variant, and model availability, visit your nearest Xiaomi Authorized Store or participating retailer. For the Home Credit discount and installment options, ask at any participating Home Credit hub.
TECHNOLOGY
Quick Flicks and Pro Clicks: Logitech brings fastest click technology with Latest PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE
1:11 p.m. March 26, 2026
Logitech G raises the bar for competitive gaming performance once again with the launch of the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE, a next-gen wireless mouse that combines inductive analog sensing with real-time haptics.
Designed for elite precision and total control, the PRO X2 dramatically reduces click latency, enhances responsiveness, and gives players the power to personalize their click intensity like never before.
Industry-Leading Click Technology
Featuring a patent-pending SUPERSTRIKE technology, an industry-first innovation, the PRO X2 transforms how every mouse click is activated and felt. This new technology allows players to reduce the required travel distance to send the click signal. Improvements in click delay are shown to reach up to 30 milliseconds based on internal testing. This drastically transforms the way players compete and provides them the decisive edge they need to win virtual battlefields.
The PRO X2 introduces the Haptic Inductive Trigger System (HITS), which replaces traditional microswitches found in gaming mice. This system drastically improves click latency performance by sending tactile feedback to players so each click is felt the moment the signal reaches the PC.
By combining trigger response optimization with real-time click haptics, Logitech G sets a new benchmark in competitive mouse performance through the PRO X2.
Customizable Esports-Level Gaming Performance
Developed in collaboration with elite esports teams G2 Esports, NAVi, and BLG, the PRO X2 is made to meet the demands of high-level competitive play. Every element of the mouse is designed to support players in fast decision-making, precise execution, and unmatched consistency, whether competing in a professional environment or grinding ranked matches at home.
Beyond its impressive click system, the PRO X2 also introduces 10 selectable actuation steps, allowing players to fine-tune the actuation point of both main buttons. This level of control enables them to calibrate every click depth to match their preferred playstyle, role, or specific game requirements with zero hassle. These adjustments can be made seamlessly through Logitech G HUB software, giving them the flexibility to edit their settings without disrupting their momentum.
The PRO X2 also features LIGHTSPEED wireless technology that blends comfort and efficiency by delivering up to an 8 kHz report rate of untethered freedom. This end-to-end wireless solution ensures that every click and movement registers with exceptional speed and stability, earning the trust of esports professionals worldwide.
Precision Tracking Without Setbacks
Harnessing Logitech’s elite HERO 2 sensor, the PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE enables a reliable 888 IPS tracking speed with sub-micron precision, up to 44,000 DPI mouse sensitivity, and over 88G acceleration. For players, this level of control not only supports quick wrist flicks and controlled micro-adjustments but also helps in split-second decisions that require fast reaction. Movements are assured to have zero smoothing, acceleration, or filtering, giving players the chance to showcase their raw and unfiltered skills.
Lightweight Design Built for Long Competitive Sessions
Following the award-winning design of the SUPERLIGHT 2, the PRO X2 weighs 61 grams to support fluid movements and long competitive sessions. Additionally, it comes with a long-lasting battery, reaching up
90 hours of constant use, to allow players to focus on their games without worrying about charge times.
The PRO X2 SUPERSTRIKE sets a new benchmark in player-controlled click innovation that redefines what competitive gaming hardware can deliver. Through Logitech’s advancing technologies, it brings together ultra-responsiveness and absolute control for a reliable wireless virtual performance.
Logitech G’s latest gaming mouse is priced at PHP 11,945 and is available exclusively on Shopee and Logitech Authorized Retail Partners and Gaming Specialists. To learn more about the product and upcoming product releases, follow Logitech G on Facebook. You may also visit http://www.logitechg.com for more product offerings.
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