Category: Business Mirror

Ticket sales for 21st Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival more than doubled compared to last year’s figures, according to festival officials.

According to Cinemalaya festival director Chris Millado, box office data showed that ticket sales climbed from P5.8 million last year to P13.4 million this year during the festival’s run from October 3 to 12 across Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City, Ayala Malls Cinemas, and Gateway Cinemas.

‘This marks more than a 100 percent increase in ticket sales,’ he said, noting that audience reach also grew slightly-from 30,000 last year to 32,000 this year.

Millado added that the surge in sales signals the continued expansion of Cinemalaya’s footprint beyond the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) where the festival was originally held.

He noted that if this upward trend continues, the festival’s revenues could surpass pre-pandemic levels by next year.

‘Patuloy ito sa karampot na budget at sa matinding pagpupunyagi na ikuwento ng ating filmmakers ang buhay, kamatayan, pinagsaluhan, at pinagtagumpayan ng ating buhay-buhay bilang Pilipino,’ Millado said.

[Despite working with limited budgets, our filmmakers continue to persevere in telling stories about the life, death, struggles, and triumphs of the Filipino people.]

He added, ‘Habang iningungudngod tayo sa burak ng mga sakim, binabago naman natin ang reputasyon at kamalayang Pilipino sa paraan ng ating patuloy na makasining paglikha, pagkukuwento, at pagdadalumat.’

[While we are being dragged through the mud by the greedy, we are, at the same time, reshaping the Filipino’s reputation and consciousness through our continuous artistic creation, storytelling, and reflection.]

For generations, money was a hush-hush topic in Filipino households. As a rule, conversations about salaries, savings, or even simple budgeting were considered too sensitive to discuss openly.

However, slowly but surely, things have changed. Today’s middle-class Filipinos openly challenge that mindset, and money matters are now more commonly discussed. Better access to education, technology, and financial services has had more people talking about their finances, not just behind closed doors but out in the open, online, in group chats, and even over Sunday family lunches.

More than just a sign of social change, this shift in mindset reflects the country’s redefined relationship with money. Younger Filipinos have become more intentional about building wealth and planning for the future. Even more remarkably, they’re doing all that even though they’re visiting banks less often.

The rise of digital banks and the financial inclusion they’ve created is inarguably a major factor in driving this change. Through a digital banking app like Maya, Filipinos can better plan their funds, invest, and gain accurate information to help them plan their next moves. The widespread adoption of digital banking, in turn, has allowed financial conversations to be more inclusive and empowering.

Here are some of the ways digital banking has led to Filipinos becoming more open with money matters:

1. Digital Banks Have Made Saving Feel Less Intimidating

Traditional banking often came with restrictive minimum balance requirements, complicated paperwork, and sometimes unnecessary gatekeeping. The first few generations of freelancers often struggled to save and invest as the traditional system barely acknowledged their existence. Digital banks changed that, offering low starting requirements and simple sign-up processes that accommodated even those who were excluded from the financial system. With more people able to save, more began talking freely about their finances.

2. They’ve Created Reasons to Discuss Interest Rates and Financial Goals

It used to be rare for Filipinos to compare notes on where and how they kept their money. The interest rates were generally low so there was little point in talking about earnings because the performance would be inconsequential, regardless of the bank.

But now, the easy availability of high-yield savings accounts with boosted interest rates means many are excited to share their finds with friends and family. You’ll even find social media groups where members freely exchange tips on which accounts give the best returns, how to set up automated goals, or how to gamify their savings progress. To put it simply, better banking tools have created reasons to discuss financial products.

3. They’ve Brought Smart Budgeting into Everyday Talk

The emergence of user-friendly digital banking apps has made users much more aware of their own spending habits, allowing them to become more confident when discussing budgeting strategies. It’s not unusual anymore to hear someone say, ‘My app says I overspent on food delivery last month’ or such casual remarks about their money.

4. Digital Banking Has Spurred Financial Literacy on Social Media

The most popular digital banks have found an organic following on popular platforms, using them to share bite-sized financial tips, myth-busting explainers, and inspirational stories. This approach has made money talk feel less like a lecture and more like a friendly conversation. Younger Filipinos no longer feel too shy to ask questions about savings, credit, or investments and now often find their answers in formats they actually enjoy, encouraging many to add to the discussion.

5. Financial Frankness Has Encouraged Transparency in Relationships

The more open attitudes toward money are also reshaping peoples’ values. These days, it’s much more common for couples planning a shared future or friends traveling together to discuss funding openly. While digital banks aren’t the only reason for this, they have made it much easier to send, receive, and track money in real time, accelerating this welcome trend.

6. Digital Banks Have Empowered Young Adults to Take Control Early

Before digital banking, many young Filipino adults relied on their parents’ banks or delayed opening their own accounts altogether. There simply weren’t that many compelling reasons to do so, especially with all the time and tedious processes one had to go through.

Thankfully, things are different now. These days, opening a savings account is as easy as downloading an app onto your phone and tapping ‘apply’. Not only that, they now actually come with features that are worth using, including goal-setting, investments, and more. As a result, more young Filipinos are building solid financial habits earlier and more are likely to talk about those habits with their peers.

Money Talks Continue to Evolve

Digital banks continue to expand access and offer innovative services that address real, day-to-day challenges. In the process, they’re also helping bring more Filipinos to the financial mainstream and reshape the everyday conversations we have around it. While old attitudes still linger, younger generations of Filipinos no longer consider talking about money to be awkward or shameful. If anything, these conversations are becoming something that can be approached with confidence and, perhaps, a little excitement.

A local film organization announced Sunday that it will continue its P1-million grant for each full-length feature film finalist in next year’s Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

‘Cinemalaya is not just a festival of film, it serves as a platform and a compass that guides the direction of Filipino cinema,’ said Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Chair Jose Javier Reyes during the 21st Cinemalaya awarding ceremony held at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City.

Reyes said that aside from the financial assistance for full-length film finalists, the agency will also provide P100,000 to short film finalists in next year’s competition.

‘In the past 10 days, we’ve seen the unique types of films that should give direction for our future,’ he added.

Reyes also shared that the FDCP is working to connect Filipino filmmakers with international markets by facilitating participation in major global film festivals, including the Hong Kong International Film Festival, Cannes Film Festival, and Busan International Film Festival.

‘To all aspiring filmmakers, please continue,’ Reyes said, emphasizing that storytellers play a vital role in shaping the nation’s cultural identity and inspiring future generations of creatives.

Meanwhile, Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. President Laurice Guillen announced that the festival’s reach will soon extend beyond its annual 10-day run.

‘We plan on bringing back the winning short and long films from 2005 to the present in a monthly film screening,’ she said.

Guillen also shared that the call for entries for Cinemalaya 2027 will open soon, while the 2026 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival is set to open on the first Friday of August next year.

‘We look forward to seeing you again-ready to discover new voices, new perspectives, and new stories to inspire us all,’ she added.

The 10 full-length finalists for Cinemalaya 2026 are:

a.ni.mal by Dustin Celestino

2 Valid IDs by Ma-an L. Asuncion-Dagnalan and Abet Pagdagdagan Raz

Dangeom by Paul Sta. Ana

Ganggang by JL Burgos

Kamay ni Bathala by Mark Duane Angos

Mag-iina by Gian Carlo Abrahan and Guelan Luarca

May Buntot ang mga ‘Yan by Alpha Habon

Status: Rejected by Vahn Leinard Pascual

Tayo Lang ang Nakakaalam by David R. Corpuz

Tirik by May-i Padilla

Following the block sale of MREIT shares in July and September amounting to around P3.4 billion, property giant Megaworld is set to reinvest the proceeds to expand the offerings of its three township developments, namely The Upper East in Bacolod, The Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, and Paragua Coastown in San Vicente, Palawan.

These new offerings include new income-generating assets office towers, lifestyle malls, and hotels, among others.

Currently, Megaworld is developing a 34-hectare modern business and lifestyle district in the eastern part of Bacolod City, just within a location across the Bacolod City Government Center.

The township, which stands on a property that used to be the Bacolod-Murcia Milling Company sugar mill complex, has already completed the construction of three residential condominium towers and one office building, while two more residential developments, one office tower, and one hotel are under construction.

By next year, the company is set to start constructing its lifestyle mall within the township.

In Lapu-Lapu City’s booming tourism coastline, the company is also developing a 30-hectare new business, lifestyle and tourism district with its beach that serves as a unique amenity for the entire township.

At present, four residential developments have already been completed while three more are under construction. The township is also home to five office towers and two hotels.

Two tourism-related facilities are also being constructed: the Mactan Expo, which is a standalone convention center, and the Mactan World Museum, a multi-level historical and cultural museum that commemorates the Spanish arrival to the Philippines in 1521 where Mactan Island played a significant part in its history.

In San Vicente, Palawan, the company is developing a 462-hectare eco-tourism community just along the country’s longest coastline.

Currently, Megaworld is building two hotels, two residential condominiums, a residential village, commercial districts, and nature parks inside the estate.

‘These three provincial townships; while different in scale and themes, have huge potential for tourism, which will drive business into these localities. We hope to be able to expand our offerings that can generate more jobs and help boost tourism in these exciting destinations,’ says Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, president and CEO, Megaworld.

‘We look forward to the new income-generating assets that will be part of the potential future assets of MREIT, particularly the new malls and offices that will be built. As we move closer to our one-million square meters of GLA target, we are already laying the groundwork for growth beyond that milestone. These projects will not only sustain MREIT’s expansion pipeline but also enhance its long-term earnings visibility and shareholder value,’ says Kevin L. Tan, chairman, MREIT Inc.

Currently, MREIT’s portfolio comprises 24 prime office properties strategically located in five Megaworld townships: Eastwood City in Quezon City; McKinley Hill and McKinley West in Taguig; Iloilo Business Park in Iloilo City; and Davao Park District in Davao City.

The Department of Education (DepEd) is strengthening coordination with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to ensure that class suspension decisions are guided by scientific data, localized risk assessments, and safety standards, following the recent earthquakes that struck parts of Cebu and Davao Oriental.

Education Secretary Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara said that the partnership aims to balance the protection of learners and personnel with the Department’s goal of sustaining education amid disasters and emergencies.

‘Sa usapin ng kalamidad, bukod sa maagap, dapat eksakto rin ang kilos. Kaya mahalaga ang pakikipag-ugnayan sa PHIVOLCS para ang bawat desisyon, mula sa pagsuspinde ng klase hanggang sa pagpapatuloy ng pag-aaral, ay nakabatay sa siyensya at hindi sa pangamba,’ Angara said, noting that the move is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos.

‘Nang makita ko mismo ang pinsala ng lindol sa Cebu at Davao Oriental, mas nauunwaan natin gaano kahalaga ang tamang datos at koordinasyon. Sa tulong ng PHIVOLCS, masisiguro nating ang bawat hakbang ng DepEd ay mabilis, ligtas, at may batayang siyentipiko,’ he added.

To enhance disaster readiness, PHIVOLCS, led by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., and DepEd discussed the need to ensure that schools located near fault lines are ‘over-engineered’ to withstand strong earthquakes.

DepEd, likewise, expressed the need for specialized partnership with PHIVOLCS for training programs that would build the capacity of regional and field offices to assess building integrity and manage appropriate response actions during earthquakes.

The Department also proposed the establishment of a DepEd Command Center in coordination with PHIVOLCS, which could serve as a monitoring hub for disaster response and early warnings.

DepEd said personnel can be trained to use checklist-based procedures that trigger automatic alerts once certain safety conditions are met-ensuring faster and more coordinated responses during emergencies.

Finally, both DepEd and PHIVOLCS committed to strengthening coordination in releasing science-based advisories and information materials to ensure public trust and prevent misinformation during crises.

Continuity of learning

Meanwhile, Angara emphasized that preparedness must go hand in hand with the continuity of learning.

Under DepEd Order No. 22, s. 2024 or the Revised Guidelines on Class and Work Suspension in Schools During Disasters and Emergencies, the authority to suspend classes rests with the Local Chief Executive (LCE), Schools Division Superintendent (SDS), and school heads. DepEd stressed that decisions must be based on PHIVOLCS advisories, field conditions, and the readiness to resume learning as soon as possible.

DepEd also cited DepEd Order No. 21, s. 2015, which tasks Regional Offices to monitor prevention, mitigation, and preparedness measures, ensuring that learning continues even when schools are affected by natural hazards.

DepEd reiterated that preventive suspensions should activate learning continuity plans such as modular, online, or take-home learning while safety inspections are ongoing.

Balance public safety with learning continuity

While DepEd respects the authority of the local governments to suspend classes in the interest of public safety, it reminded that extended suspensions can ‘disrupt’ learning and affect students’ development.

Also, DepEd strongly encourages local governments to periodically assess whether the suspension is still necessary for public safety.

Dennis E. Legaspi, Chief Media Relations Officer, said that the responsibility of extending class suspensions must be exercised with ‘balance and prudence.’

‘While caution is important, extended suspensions can disrupt learning and affect students’ development. Every decision should reflect both care for safety and commitment to learning continuity,’ he said

The DepEd Central Office will also be coordinating with the respective Schools Division Offices to ensure that alternative delivery modes are deployed to affected learners.

‘We will ensure that learning continuity is prioritized at all costs,’ Legaspi added.

The provincial government of Laguna announced the suspension of face-to-face classes in all public and private schools from October 14 to 31, 2025.

Learners will observe alternative learning modes.

In a Facebook Live broadcast on Saturday, Governor Sol Aragones said, they are preparing for a potential ‘worst-case scenario,’ following the series of earthquakes that struck different parts of the country.

The decision, Aragones said, was reached following an

emergency consultation local government units (LGUs) and other concerned agencies, as a precaution against potential seismic activity along the West Valley Fault (WVF).

The WVF runs through Bulacan, Rizal, Metro Manila, Cavite, and Laguna.

AN additional P5 billion has been approved for release to sustain the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, which continues to support Filipinos in need.

The budget allocation is expected to benefit around 411,188 Filipinos for the remainder of the year.

The P5-billion allocations aim to address the budget deficiency under the ‘Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances’ component of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Under the AICS program, beneficiaries may receive financial assistance for medical, burial, transportation, education, food, and other essential needs during times of crisis.

The approved allotment and corresponding Notice of Cash Allocation are chargeable against the Fiscal Year 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

The Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman justified the latest release for the AICS program as highlighting the importance of unprogrammed appropriations.

Pangandaman added that unprogrammed appropriations serve as fiscal buffers, enabling the government to respond swiftly to humanitarian needs and emergencies.

According to the DBM, unprogrammed funds are duly authorized and approved by Congress under the GAA.

‘Unprogrammed appropriations are not discretionary or secret funds,’ the budget secretary said.

‘These funds can only be accessed when there are excess or windfall revenues, new revenue measures, or valid loan agreements for foreign-assisted projects,’ Pangandaman added.

Additionally, the budget chief emphasized that the DBM has no authority to introduce ‘insertions’ into the national budget, noting that such changes typically occur only during Congress deliberations.

She also reiterated that under the Constitution, Congress retains the ‘power of the purse.’

Pangandaman said unprogrammed appropriations allow the government to support priority programs such as social protection, agriculture, education, health, and infrastructure while maintaining fiscal discipline.

She cited previous instances when the government utilized unprogrammed funds, including during the COVID-19 pandemic and in 2024, when such appropriations supported projects in social welfare, agriculture, and national defense modernization.

Meanwhile, Finance Secretary Ralph M. Recto acknowledged that unprogrammed funds play a vital role in emergency response but must remain limited and carefully justified.

‘Frankly speaking, the unprogrammed funds shouldn’t be that big,’ Recto told reporters last Tuesday.

The finance chief said safeguards must be implemented to prevent abuse of such funds, like listing them as a line item as much as possible.

‘Disasters can’t all be programmed because you never know when they will happen, that’s why they fall under unprogrammed funds,’ the finance secretary said in Filipino.

He also noted there is no fixed rule governing the ideal size of unprogrammed appropriations.

‘We used to set it at 5 percent before. But 5 percent is too big for the national government,’ Recto explained.

GOVERNMENT employees and pensioners affected by the twin earthquakes that struck Davao Oriental may tap their emergency loans offered by the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).

The GSIS assured its members and pensioners financial assistance, following the two consecutive earthquakes that struck the province.

GSIS President and General Manager Jose Arnulfo A. Veloso said the agency is monitoring the situation in Davao and is ready to help their pensioners recover from the disaster.

‘Just as we did in Cebu, GSIS will ensure that our members and pensioners in Davao receive the support they need to recover quickly. Our priority is to bring relief and security, especially in times of calamity,’ Veloso said.

The pension fund has released more than P346 million in emergency loans to an estimated 12,000 members and pensioners in Cebu.

Under the GSIS emergency loan program, members and pensioners who are residents or employees of the affected areas may borrow up to P40,000 if they have an existing emergency loan. While those who do not have existing loans may borrow up to P20,000.

The borrowed fund is payable within 36 months with a 6 percent annual interest rate, with the first payment due after three months.

Meanwhile, Veloso said the pension fund has been promptly processing emergency loan applications through their digital channels.

Members may apply through the GSIS Touch mobile app, GWAPS kiosks, or over-the-counter and their proceeds will be credited directly to their ATM cards.

The pension fund also said they are coordinating with local government units to look into insured government properties that may have been damaged to ensure swift processing of insurance claims and restoration of public services.

The emergency loan window of the GSIS will also be open in other areas hit by earthquake once they have been placed under a state of calamity.

The Philippines is stepping up efforts to establish itself as a ‘vital investment hub’ for big ticket transportation projects, with a Cabinet official courting European investors to help bankroll the country’s infrastructure drive.

Speaking before members of the European Union-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (EU-Asean) Business Council, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the Department of Transportation (DOTr) is expediting the rollout of major infrastructure projects.

‘We are filled with optimism that the EU-Asean Business Council sees the boundless opportunities in the Philippines that will drive our economic growth and address the social needs of our people,’ he said.

Lopez said the government is committed to partnering with foreign investors across all transport sectors-aviation, railways, maritime, and road.

During the meeting, Lopez outlined several areas where the Philippines hopes to collaborate with European investors, including coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on railway infrastructure projects, stricter implementation of air, seaport, and road transport regulations, and the Public Transport Modernization Program.

The government is also promoting Public-Private Partnership schemes for transport projects and advancing road safety measures as part of its comprehensive strategy to address the social and economic needs of commuters.

‘From across our transportation sectors-aviation, railways, maritime and road-the DOTr is a committed partner of the EU-Asean Business Council to help us achieve President Marcos’ goal of improving the lives of commuters,’ Lopez said.

vivo officially launched its new flagship vivo X300 series in Shanghai, opening a new journey for mobile imaging. As a milestone commemorating the brand’s 30th anniversary, X300 series establishes a new paradigm as the ‘Dual Kings of 200 MP ZEISS Imaging.’ Centered around professional-grade imaging, X300 series also delivers comprehensive upgrades in performance, system experience, and design, offering users a refined and versatile flagship solution.

vivo X300 series introduces a breakthrough ZEISS APO 200MP super telephoto system on X300 Pro, while X300 features a revolutionary upgrade with its ZEISS 200MP super main camera. Powered by the Dimensity 9500 flagship platform and combined with vivo’s in-house Blueprint imaging chip V3+, the series achieves industry-leading 4K video creation through this ‘dual-chip integration.’

In addition, the jointly defined Dimensity 9500’s Ultra-Efficient Imaging NPU significantly enhanced motion snapshot capabilities. While imaging performance leaps forward, X300 series also brings an all-around evolution in flagship performance – with X300 Pro surpassing 4.1 million points in AnTuTu benchmarks under room temperature conditions. X300 series also comes equipped with the new OriginOS 6, offering exceptional sustained smooth performance.

Putting Users First: The Evolution of vivo’s ‘In-House and Collaborative R and D’ Strategy

The year 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of vivo. At the launch event, Huang Tao, Vice President of Product at vivo, shared the philosophy and persistence behind the brand’s three-decade journey. He stated, ‘For vivo, the most rewarding achievement lies in the moving moments preserved in our users’ photo albums. From landlines to music phones, and today’s imaging flagships, being able to accompany users over the long term has been vivo’s most valuable treasure over the past 30 years. While technology never stops advancing, vivo’s commitment remains unchanged: to conscientiously create excellent products and become users’ most enduring friend by offering truly worthwhile devices.’

Guided by the principle that ‘users are the starting point of every action,’ vivo has forged a unique path of synergistic collaboration, advancing both in-house research and open partnerships. On one hand, through deep insights into user needs and strategic collaborations with industry leaders across various fields, vivo transforms cutting-edge professional technologies into tailored user experiences. On the other hand, to address unique demands that industry currently cannot meet, vivo commits to long-term, large-scale resource investments, focusing on core technologies that define leading experiences.

vivo X300 Pro: Reconstruct the Photo Experience with Ultra-Level Imaging

As the flagship of the series, vivo X300 Pro’s imaging system has achieved comprehensive technological upgrades. The all-new 85 mm 200 MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera on X300 Pro is a professional telephoto system with full coordination from the sensor and optics to stabilization. At its core is the HPB large bottom sensor, co-developed by vivo and Samsung. It features 200 MP and a 1/1.4-inch large sensor, representing Samsung’s advanced high-resolution sensor technology. It is equipped with a f/2.67 aperture and ZEISS T* Coating, and holds the ZEISS APO certification. The entire module is also equipped with industry-leading CIPA 5.5-Rated Image Stabilization, ensuring stable and clear shots even during telephoto shooting.

The jointly defined Dimensity 9500’s Ultra-Efficient Imaging NPU, working in tandem with vivo’s self-developed algorithms and the BlueImage Extreme Subject-Tracking Engine, enables X300 Pro to deliver outstanding motion tracking performance. It achieves not only millisecond-level tracking and shutter response but also improves tracking stability by over 200%. This makes it exceptionally capable in long-range snapshot scenarios at a 480 mm equivalent reach, such as stages and sporting events. Particularly in concert scenarios, vivo’s capability has been market-proven, having held the No. 1 position in the rental market for 7 consecutive months with a market share exceeding 50%. With further evolution in focus tracking and image quality, X300 Pro is set to solidify its status as the ultimate tool for capturing action.

For the main camera, vivo X300 Pro features the LYT-828 sensor, jointly defined by vivo and Sony. It boasts a large 1/1.28-inch size and incorporates vivo’s self-developed VCS 3.0 technology for more accurate color rendition. Paired with this sensor is a newly designed optical module. It has a 24 mm equivalent focal length and a large f/1.57 aperture. It also supports CIPA 5.5-Rated Image Stabilization, with the stabilization angle upgraded to ±1.5°, achieving a Gimbal-Grade level of stability. This provides a solid foundation for both video recording and low-light imaging. Thanks to this powerful hardware combination, vivo X300 Pro delivers Multi-Focal HD Portrait quality across the entire range from 24 mm to 135 mm.

Video recording capabilities have also been comprehensively upgraded. Powered by the Dual Flagship Chip setup, X300 Pro supports high-spec 4K 60 fps Portrait Video. It offers unique video styles like Cold-White and Classic Negative, enabling users to capture cinematic-quality footage effortlessly. A key breakthrough in videography is achieved with X300 Pro: both its main and telephoto cameras support 4K 120 fps Dual-Channel EIS. This allows for the creation of high-spec Dolby Vision HDR videos, a task that previously required a gimbal, now it can be accomplished effortlessly with just this device in hand.

For professional creators, X300 Pro supports 4K 120 fps 10-Bit Log video recording across all focal lengths and incorporates a full ACES workflow. This facilitates color management and multi-device color grading synchronization in editing software, establishing it as an imaging tool that meets professional demands. It truly puts cinematic-grade creative freedom into the hands of every user.

vivo X300: Set A New Standard for Small-Screen Flagships with Pro-Level Imaging

If vivo X300 Pro represents the ultimate exploration of an imaging flagship, then vivo X300 is dedicated to bringing pro-level imaging capabilities to users who prefer a more compact device. This Pro-level strength is first embodied in its powerful imaging core. For X300’s main camera, vivo has selected the same HPB large bottom sensor used in X300 Pro’s telephoto camera, crafting it into a 200 MP ZEISS Main Camera with a 1/1.4-inch large sensor, an f/1.68 aperture, and CIPA 4.5-Rated Image Stabilization. This powerful device enables a ‘shoot first, crop later’ creative experience. A single photo can be cropped into various compositions, and users can even utilize the AI One-Shot Multi-Crop feature to generate popular ‘life trio’ or dual-image narrative works with one tap. It truly delivers 200 MP Ultra-Clear Portrait quality without other equipment. Furthermore, vivo X300’s telephoto camera meets pro-grade standards. It employs a LYT-602 sensor, and with the support of VCS technology, its overall sensitivity at SNR10 is improved by 11.9%. Its exceptional optical quality has earned the rigorous ZEISS APO certification as well.

Building upon its powerful hardware foundation, vivo X300 series elevates portrait photography through comprehensive algorithm upgrades, moving beyond mere clarity into a new realm of ‘beautiful and storytelling’ imagery. In static portrait, a variety of styles including the new Style Portrait and ZEISS Natural Portrait cater to different aesthetic preferences. The AI beauty feature, leveraging the powerful on-device AI capabilities of the jointly defined Dimensity 9500, learns users’ retouching preferences to enable one-tap batch enhancement. For dynamic portraits, the Live Photo experience has been completely revamped. It introduces the new Live Photo Passerby Erase function, which utilizes a self-developed video erasure model to intelligently and naturally remove background distractions. Particularly in Night Portrait scenarios, vivo has focused on solving the challenges of complex lighting. Even under challenging light sources like top-light, back-light, or mixed neon, it accurately separates the subject from the background to restore natural skin tones and texture. Furthermore, X300 series is equipped with an Adaptive Zoom Flash. Combined with its intelligent lighting technology and creative modes like Fireworks Portrait, it significantly enhances the atmosphere of night portraits. This combination of powerful hardware and rich, intelligent imaging features collectively establishes vivo X300 series as a veritable master of travel photography.

Two Expressions, One Flagship: Elegance and Ergonomics in Harmony

vivo X300 Pro incorporates an Ultra-grade imaging module while refining its body into a form that is both professional and elegant. With a sleek 7.99 mm profile, a 6.78-inch display, and finely curved straight-edged bezels, it offers a clean and comfortable grip. The back panel features the Unibody 3D Glass Design, seamlessly blending the camera module with the rear cover. This is complemented by the Coral Velvet Glass Technique, the design delivers a dual sensory appeal – both visual and tactile.

In contrast, vivo X300 pursues the ultimate balance of Eastern aesthetics and ergonomic comfort. Its front features a 6.31-inch Compact Flat Screen, regarded as the ‘golden size for single-hand use.’ With a slim profile of just 7.95 mm and a weight of 190g, it provides a remarkably lightweight and comfortable handling experience. In design language, X300 continues the iconic circular camera module characteristic of the X Series. The back panel also adopts the Unibody 3D Glass Design and Coral Velvet Glass Technique, offering a warm texture that is resistant to fingerprints.

Foundation of Flagship: Build the Strength of All-Round Experience

The jointly defined Dimensity 9500 flagship platform, deeply co-developed by vivo and MediaTek, provides powerful driving force for the flagship experience.

Coupled with vivo’s self-developed V3+ imaging chip, X300 series achieves efficient ‘Dual-Chip Integration,’ delivering robust computational power for both advanced imaging processing and system operations. Its powerful performance has also set a new record, with X300 Pro surpassing 4.1 million points in the AnTuTu benchmark under room temperature conditions.

The key to translating this powerful hardware potential into a sustained smooth experience is the all-new OriginOS 6. Through underlying technological innovations like Ultra-Core Computing, Dual Rendering, and Memory Fusion, it has obtained dual certifications from SGS for ‘Sustained Fluency under Full Scenarios Heavy Usage for 5 Years.’ It also innovatively enables seamless connectivity with the Apple ecosystem.

This exceptional system and hardware efficiency also grant X300 series outstanding battery performance. Both X300 Pro and X300 are equipped with large-capacity BlueVolt Batteries, featuring Silicon Anode Technology, with capacities of 6510 mAh and 6040 mAh, respectively. Through integrated software-hardware energy efficiency optimizations, X300 series delivers battery life endurance comparable to competing models with 7500 mAh and 7000 mAh batteries within the industry.

To complete the flagship experience, X300 series demonstrates flagship prowess in final sensory aspects like display and interaction. The ZEISS Master Color Display not only offers excellent visual effects but also supports two eye-comfort solutions: 2160 Hz Full Range Luminance PWM Dimming and Full Range Luminance DC Dimming. Its 1 nit Minimum Brightness ensures greater eye comfort during nighttime use. Furthermore, X300 series is equipped with high-end specifications such as the self-developed AI SuperLink system, 3D Ultrasonic Fingerprint Scanning, IP68 and IP69 Dust and Water Resistance, a high-performance X-axis linear motor, and USB 3.2, collectively forming a solid and reliable foundation for a comprehensive flagship.

As local government units in some areas call for a ‘pause’ from face-to-face schooling amid serial disasters and spreading viral infections, can the ‘break’ be used to check the structural integrity of schools?

This question was raised on Tuesday after the Department of Education (DepEd) gave an initial assessment of how much it would cost to repair and rebuilds public schools damaged by recent earthquakes in the south: P4 billion.

Senator Bam Aquino questioned whether public schools can withstand strong earthquakes, and will file a resolution seeking to assess the readiness of public school buildings across the country in the event of strong earthquakes, following recent tremors in various areas.

It’s important to know how ready and structurally strong our schools are when severe earthquakes strike, for the students, teachers, parents and people who work in schools,’ said Aquino, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, speaking mostly in Filipino.

Aquino emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and structural integrity of school buildings, especially after the admission of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Assistant District Engineer Brice Hernandez that all infrastructure projects in Bulacan from 2019 to the present were substandard, including classrooms.

‘Kapag ang pondo sa mga paaralan ay kinurakot at binudol, pinapahamak ang mga estudyante sa bagyo at lindol. Huwag nating isugal ang buhay ng ating mga kababayan Mas mabuting matiyak ang kahandaan at kaligtasan ng ating mga school building laban sa mga pagyanig,’ he stressed.

[If funds meant for schoolbuildings are stolen and shortcuts used, students are put at risk from storms and quakes. Let’s not gamble with the lives of our people. It’s better to make sure that school buildings are ready for disasters]. Aquino added that he will push for an additional budget for the inspection and assessment of public school buildings to ensure their structural integrity.

Aside from examining the structural soundness and safety of public school buildings, Aquino said his planned probe will also look into the extent of the damage caused by recent earthquakes and the measures being implemented by concerned agencies to ensure that affected schools can safely resume classes.

The inquiry will also tackle measures to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience in schools, including regular safety inspections, the regular conduct of earthquake drills and evacuation protocols, and the placement of earthquake emergency kits.

‘Ang ating mga paaralan ay dapat maging ligtas na kanlungan sa oras ng sakuna, hindi karagdagang panganib. Panahon na para tiyaking matatag at handa ang ating mga estudyante at mga guro sakaling tumama ang malakas na lindol,’ he pointed out.

[Our schools should be havens for safety in times of disasters, not additional sources of danger. It’s time to make sure they stay strong for our learners and teachers in case a strong quake strikes.]