SMART Offers the 5G Pocket Pro WiFi Device for Only Php7,995 for a Limited Time

PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is making high-speed connectivity even more accessible to Filipinos as it introduces the Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro, a powerhouse device that can connect up to 15 gadgets simultaneously to the Smart 5G network.

Safe, secure, and backed by Smart's award-winning mobile network, the Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro WiFi is specifically designed for professionals such as entrepreneurs and freelancers who juggle multiple responsibilities and devices, as well as individuals in fast-paced roles requiring seamless connectivity for productivity on the go.

The device also enables those who still don't have a 5G-enabled smartphone to finally experience next-level speeds anytime and anywhere– from streaming HD videos seamlessly, playing action-packed mobile games without lag, making crystal-clear video calls without buffering, and uploading and downloading heavy huge files in an instant.

Additionally, this device will empower users who prefer not to tether their phones for extended periods just to connect their other gadgets.

As a special offer, the Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro is now available at Smart Stores nationwide for a discounted price of only Php7,995 from its original price of Php12,995.

Every purchase of the device comes Php250 worth of load and a FREE car charger, enabling users to activate and connect their new Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro from the get-go.

Smart 5G for All

“The Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro is a welcome addition to our suite of innovative products and services that empower Filipinos so they can level up their productivity and enjoyment in this fast-paced digital world, backed by our superior network," said Lloyd R. Manaloto, Head of Prepaid at Smart.

"Aside from giving customers more power and flexibility, this cutting-edge device also reinforces our commitment to bringing the many benefits of Smart 5G to more Filipinos through relevant, value-packed services and devices that are now more affordable," said James R. Jorge, Head of Wireless Broadband & Consumer WiFi.

The Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro comes in two models: the rectangular Evoluzn model, featuring an LCD display, and the circular Genew model, which sports a touchscreen LCD.

Both run on the powerful QualcommSDX62 chipset with 5,000 mAh battery for all-day connectivity. Both are equally simple and easy to use and manage via the Smart App for loading and balance check.

Best with Unli 5G + Non-Stop Data 999

Users can make the most of the Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro with Smart’s latest Unli 5G offers, which are available on the Smart App.

For the best value, subscribers may enjoy Unli 5G + Non-Stop Data valid for 30 days for only Php 999. Users may also avail of Unli 5G + Non-Stop Data valid for 1 day for only Php 99; for 3 days for only Php 149; or for 7 days for only Php 299.

The Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro is powered by Smart's award-winning mobile network, which was recently recognized for delivering the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience by independent network analytics from Opensignal.

To learn more about Smart Bro 5G Pocket Pro, visit https://smart.com.ph/bro/pocket-wifi-gadgets.

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Ryan Reynolds Brings Heart and Humor to Family Adventure-Comedy “IF”

Ryan Reynolds is bringing his high-energy comedic humor that made his portrayal as the superhero Deadpool iconic, and turning it into something magical as the character Cal in the whimsical world of IF. 

In a world where IFs or imaginary friends are real, Cal, along with Bea (Cailey Fleming), are the only ones who can see these beings. Cal is on a mission to give purpose to forgotten IFs by matching them with a new kid to protect and play with, but his efforts have been fruitless so far. Along comes Bea, and everything begins to change.

Watch John Krasinski and Cailey Fleming explain what IFs are: https://youtu.be/T3BBfT0aGg8

The character Cal is a role tailored for Reynolds. Director-writer John Krasinski explains, “We needed someone who could play heart as well as humor, an expert at physical comedy who could create a very real relationship with Bea. Ryan is able to cover such a range of emotions and have such fun doing it.”

Krasinski also shares how Reynolds is uniquely qualified to be the person that takes Bea on an adventure she never dreamed of. “He has the ability to draw everyone in with his likability,” says Krasinski. “And he is able to make the kind of emotional hairpin turns that most actors can’t. He has incredible timing. But more importantly, he understands that while timing can make you laugh, it can also make you cry. He just knows how to craft a performance.”

Executive producer John J. Kelly agrees and says he cannot imagine anyone else who could fit the bill.. “The character is a lot like Gene Wilder in Willie Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. It needed someone who could be funny and light, but have the weight to bring this child through a journey of loss in a way that would mean something to everyone in the audience,” Kelly says.

Kelly also notes that Reynolds went above and beyond in terms of commitment to the film, coming up with unexpected ways to deliver laughs to the audience. “Ryan is always coming up with ideas for another way to do something,” he recalls. “The physical comedy in this film is amazing.”

Reynolds shares his take on the story of IF, and the importance of imagination. “The concept of imaginary friends is provocative and interesting,” he says. “IFs are usually created out of necessity. It’s an adaptive coping mechanism for kids who realize that they can’t rely exclusively on their parents for a sense of well-being. They have to find other ways to manage. They seek it by creating their own imaginary friends.”

Personally, Reynolds also shares that he had his own IF as a child: a teddy bear named Pookie. “My brother Jeff and I shared this imaginary friend back and forth. It was a kind of weird bond we had. It’s something we still talk about today.”

A whimsical tale for anyone that dares to imagine, IF, rated G, arrives in Philippine cinemas on May 15.

About IF

From writer and director John Krasinski, IF is about a girl who discovers that she can see everyone’s imaginary friends – and what she does with that superpower – as she embarks on a magical adventure to reconnect forgotten IFs with their kids. IF stars Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, and the voices of Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr. and Steve Carell alongside many more as the wonderfully unique characters that reflect the incredible power of a child’s imagination.

Written and directed by John Krasinski, IF is produced by Allyson Seeger, Andrew Form, Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski

Cast includes Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, Fiona Shaw, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Louis Gossett Jr., Alan Kim, Liza Colón-Zayas and Steve Carell

In Philippine cinemas starting May 15, IF is distributed in the Philippines by Paramount Pictures through Columbia Pictures.

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JK Labajo Reveals Late Mother as His Life Inspiration, Dimples Romana Shares Joys and Challenges of Motherhood

Broadcast journalist Jeff Canoy will share the touching story behind singer-songwriter and actor Juan Karlos in a heartwarming feature on "Tao Po." Amidst adversity, Juan Karlos recounts how he continues to find solace and inspiration from the unwavering love of his late mother, shaping his remarkable journey to success.

He first gained fame in the music scene when he participated in the first season of The Voice Kids in 2013, shortly after his mother passed away from cancer.

Juan Karlos credits his mom for encouraging him to pursue his singing career dreams, and that her memory keeps him going. He also discussed his struggles with mental health while recording his album and filming for the upcoming youth-oriented series "High Street," where he plays Gino from its prequel "Senior High."

He recently made history with his latest single "Ere," marking the first OPM song to enter Spotify's global chart.

As "Tao Po" celebrates Mother's Day, Victoria Tulad visits Dimples Romana to delve into the joys challenges of motherhood. The conversation offers helpful insights and tips on work-life balance and motherhood.

Kabayan Noli De Castro embarked on a journey to Tagaytay to meet Janeth Bantilan, a remarkable mother who single-handedly cares for her two children with disabilities. Janeth shares her heartfelt story, recounting the moment she learned the saddening news about her children's condition.

Catch these stories showcasing the unconditional love of mothers from all walks of life this Sunday (May 12) on "Tao Po" at 6:15 pm on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, ABS-CBN News’ YouTube Channel, and iWantTFC.

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Meet the Mega Minions - The New Kind of Minion in "Despicable Me 4"

It’s gonna be mega.

In the new trailer for “Despicable Me 4,” Gru, Lucy and their kids (Margo, Edith, Agnes and Gru Jr.!), who are on the run from a new nemesis, get compromised – and Silas Ramsbottom and the minions will stop at nothing to keep them safe.

Watch the new trailer: https://youtu.be/VaKG-l5dW48?si=5UrCJrql9JfOZra2

The trailer opens to show the minions (voiced once again by Pierre Coffin) hard at work in a typical office setup – cubicles, post-it notes on computers, an office birthday party, a photocopying machine. The best part? The minions are dressed for the occasion, looking extra sharp in suits. Gentleminions, anyone?

All that order is thrown into chaos when Silas Ramsbottom (Steve Coogan) gets an alert that the secret location of Gru (Steve Carell), Lucy (Kristen Wiig) and their kids – Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) Agnes (Madison Polan) and Gru Jr. – has been compromised. Gru and his family had been forced to go on the run because of a new nemesis, Maxime Le Mal (Will Ferrell) and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina (Sofia Vergara).

To beat the unstoppable Maxime La Mal, Ramsbottom, himself forced out of retirement, invents a super serum designed to transform minions into cutting-edge agents – the Mega Minions.

Besides Maxime La Mal and Valentina, expect more fresh new characters in “Despicable Me 4,” voiced by Joey King (“Bullet Train”), Stephen Colbert (“The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”) and Chloe Fineman (“Saturday Night Live”).

Packed with non-stop action and filled with Illumination’s signature subversive humor, Despicable Me 4 opens in Philippine cinemas July 3.

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Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Gift of Wellness from Smart and mWell

What better way to celebrate Mother’s Day than with the gift of wellness? This is why PLDT mobile services arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has teamed up with digital healthcare platform mWell to enable subscribers to redeem a Smart Health Pass, which can be used for essential health services.

Exclusively available to all Smart Prepaid, Smart Postpaid, TNT, Smart Bro, and PLDT Home Wifi subscribers starting May 10 to May 16, 2024, the Smart Health Pass may be redeemed by users for only 199 GigaPoints on the Smart App.

Originally priced at Php399, the health pass may be used to avail of a doctor e-consultation, lab request, FREE medical e-certificate, and FREE accident insurance worth P20,000 valid for one month.

To enjoy this exclusive offer, subscribers may follow these steps:

1. Sign up or log in to the Smart App, which is downloadable on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery;

2. Go to the GigaPoints section and redeem the Smart Health Pass for only 199 GigaPoints.

3. Wait for your unique code on the Smart App upon successful redemption

4. Sign in to your mWell App account or download the mWell app and sign up for an mWell account to ENTER the code.

“Our partnership with mWell for this exclusive offer underscores our commitment to bridge technology and wellness so our customers are empowered to truly live more today. We encourage our subscribers to make the most of this opportunity to gift their mothers with peace of mind and wellness,” said Alex O. Caeg, Head of Consumer Wireless Business-Individual at Smart.

“At the heart of mWell lies our passion for making health and wellness accessible, available, and affordable to anyone, anytime, anywhere. With the Smart Health Pass, Smart subscribers can provide their mothers with all-in-one access to mWell’s health and wellness features, including the mWellness Score, Mind Health Score, and 24/7 Teleconsult. The Health Pass makes for a perfect gift for our mom heroes who deserve nothing but the best,” said Chaye A. Cabal–Revilla, Chief Executive Officer of mWell.

Smart subscribers nationwide can conveniently access and make the most of this mWell App’s services powered by Smart's award-winning mobile network, which was recently recognized by independent network analytics from Opensignal for delivering the Philippines’ Best 5G Coverage Experience.

Redeem the Smart Health Pass now on the Smart App at https://smrt.ph/GetSmartApp

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"It's Showtime" and "High Street" Stars Draw Huge Crowd in Pampanga for ABS-CBN’s Bida Kapamilya

Kapamilya stars of “It’s Showtime” and “High Street” felt the warm welcome of the people of San Fernando, as supporters packed SM Pampanga’s Amphitheater for ABS-CBN’s Bida Kapamilya event.

Vice Ganda, Anne Curtis, Ogie Alcasid, Jhong Hilario, Darren Espanto, Jugs Jugueta, Ryan Bang, Ion Perez, Jackie Gonzaga, Cianne Dominguez, MC, and Lassy, entertained the fans who trooped to the event with their fun performances.

The hosts of “It’s Showtime” also went around areas in San Fernando to meet more Kapamilyas during their float parade, while the “TNT” champions Lyka Estrella, JM Yosures, Reagen Villareal, JM Dela Cerna, Mariel Montellano, and Reiven Umali came together to serenade the crowd in Pampanga.

Meanwhile, Andrea Brillantes, Xyriel Manabat, Elijah Canlas, Miggy Jimenez, Tommy Alejandrino, Harvey Bautista, and Ralph de Leon, the young stars of ABS-CBN’s upcoming primetime show, “High Street,” delighted the crowd with their song numbers. The Kapamilya stars also unveiled the official poster of “High Street” during the program.

“Ang sarap na sama-sama kaming sinalubong ng mga Kapampangan na Kapamilya natin. Nakakatuwa kasi nakaka-miss din gawin ‘yung ganito. Ang tagal naming hindi nagagawa ‘to,” Vice said in an interview with “TV Patrol.”

Xyriel, on the other hand, is thankful for the people who came to support their Bida Kapamilya event despite the hot weather.

“Sobrang appreciated po namin ‘yung effort nila kasi sobrang init ngayon, pero pumila sila at ngayon nagse-stay sila sa labas. Sobrang thankful po kami sa dedication nila,” the “High Street” actor said.

Besides the entertaining numbers, attendees were also treated to free ice cream and water, while those who got lucky went home with raffle prizes and premium items from Bida Kapamilya.

Do not miss an episode of ABS-CBN’s Studios’ “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” “Linlang: The Teleserye Version,” and “High Street” every weekday and “The Voice Teens,” “I Can See Your Voice,” and “ASAP Natin ‘To” every weekend by tuning in to Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live (YouTube and Facebook), A2Z, TV5, and iWantTFC.

Be part of the fun and laughter during noontime by catching “It’s Showtime” from Monday to Saturday on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live (YouTube and Facebok), A2Z, GMA, GTV, and iWantTFC.

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KIM SOO HYUN "Eyes On You" Asia Tour Coming to Manila on June 29

Korean superstar and one of Korea’s best actors, KIM SOO HYUN has announced his much-awaited and first-ever Asia tour in ten years, ‘Eyes On You’, which will include a stop in Manila on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at the Araneta Coliseum. 

The 2024 Kim Soo Hyun Asia Tour in Manila will feature special songs that will be performed by the well-loved Korean actor for his Filipino fans!

Kim Soo Hyun recently garnered a lot of attention from fans and non-fans alike from the massive success of his K-Drama, Queen of Tears, which has now become the highest-rated tvN series surpassing Crash Landing On You. Kim Soo Hyun also became a top Hallyu star as he gained success with the fantasy series My Love the Stars, the television drama Moon Embracing the Sun (which earned him the Baeksang Arts Award for Best Actor), the variety drama The Producers (which earned him three Daesang awards), and the romantic comedy It’s Okay to Not Be Okay.

Tickets to the 2024 Kim Soo Hyun Asia Tour in Manila will go on-sale on Saturday, May 18, 2024 via TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets nationwide. 

Follow Wilbros Live on social media for more information.

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Like Kathryn Bernardo, Engage Yourself with TCL C655 Pro QLED TV #AQuantumLeapInPictureQuality

TCL Electronics, a leading consumer electronics brand and one of the world's top two TV brands, excitedly announces the arrival of the TCL C655 Pro QLED TV offering the most valuable and unparalleled picture quality. This QLED Smart TV technology will redefine home entertainment at its finest.

Setting the standards of new generation smart TVs, TCL C655 Pro QLED TV is bound to give the leap in color display technology. Its incredible highlights will captivate you as they reinforce a more defined quality of the picture.

“No further waiting for now because we are giving it to you! The TCL C655 Pro QLED TVs are now available. We promise you the best in TV viewing with his innovative features and technology,” says Joseph Cernitchez, TCL Philippines Brand Manager.

Don't miss out on the new TCL C655 Pro QLED TV and discover the unparalleled TV viewing experience!

Unleashing the Power of TCL C655 Pro QLED TV

The TCL C655 PRO has a 'QLED PRO' display that sets itself apart from other QLED TVs by effectively emphasizing stronger and more accurate contrast, eliminating ambient light influence and presenting an astonishingly detailed and clearer picture quality that is equally exceptional and secure compared to others.

This model is also made of AiPQ Pro Processor. This intelligent chip acts like a human brain, meticulously analyzing every detail and referencing a vast database. It then optimizes the picture based on what it "sees," delivering stunning visuals with vibrant colors, exceptional contrast, and crystal-clear clarity that rivals the real world.

With innovative technology, TCL self-developed T-Screen Pro which effectively emphasizes stronger and more accurate contrast while removing image halo and ambient light interference, presenting a clearer and more detailed stunning picture quality.

The TCL C655 PRO QLED isn't just a TV; it's a stunning work of art with its slim and unibody design to seamlessly blend into any environment, elevating your space and offering smooth streaming for an unparalleled audio-visual experience.

The C655 PRO comes in sizes of 55 inches, 65 inches, 75 inches, and 85 inches while the C655 series offers a range of sizes including 43 inches, 50 inches, 55 inches, 65 inches, 75 inches, 85 inches, and 98 inches. All are available now at all TCL authorized dealers nationwide. For more updates, log on to https://www.tcl.com/ph/en.

About TCL Philippines:

TCL Electronics (HKG:1070) is a fast-growing consumer electronics company and a leading player in the global TV industry. Founded in 1981, it now operates in over 160 markets globally. TCL specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics products ranging from TVs, audio, and smart home appliances. Visit the TCL home page at https://www.tcl.com/ph/en.

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In Time for Her Wedding Day with Nonrev Daquina, Angeline Quinto Releases Wedding Song "Salamat Ika’y Dumating"

Angeline Quinto surprised fans with the drop of her new song “Salamat Ika’y Dumating” on April 25, which is the day of her wedding with Nonrev Daquina at Quiapo Church in Manila.

The Kapamilya artist penned the wedding song with ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo who also handled its production under the record label Star Music.

Performed by the Philippine Madrigal Singers for Angeline and Nonrev’s wedding march, the song articulates Angeline’s appreciation for Nonrev.

“Salamat Ika’y Dumating” is Angeline’s comeback single after doing a version of “Pagbigyang Muli” for the series “Linlang” and “Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” for “Drag You & Me” last year. In 2022, she released the song “Nag-iisa Lang” dedicated for her and Nonrev’ child Sylvio.

Angeline is currently starring as the bubbly Sarah Angeles in the series “What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim?”

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How Honor Magic6 Pro's AI Integration Makes it theNo.1 Smartphone in China

HONOR, the eminent global provider of smart devices, clinched the top spot among leading smartphone brands in the latest study conducted by the International Data Corporation (IDC). According to Antonio Wang, Vice President at IDC, HONOR secured a remarkable 17% share in the charts, with a staggering Year-over-Year (YoY) shipments surge of 123.3% in Quarter 1, 2024.

The recent debut of the HONOR Magic6 Pro in China witnessed First Quarter shipments surpassing the combined shipments of its predecessors in the initial two quarters. This achievement is attributed to its cutting-edge AI functionalities. Excitingly, the HONOR Magic6 Pro is set to hit the Philippines market on May 8.

"Being part of a prestigious and competitive global technology company like HONOR, it's truly an honor for us. We're excited about the challenge ahead and fully committed to bringing technological breakthroughs and innovation to the Philippines. We aim to achieve significant milestones in this dynamic market,” said Stephen Cheng, Vice President of HONOR Philippines.

Moreover, HONOR’s overseas market has gained significant growth during the past year with a 200% growth rate. By Q1 2024, HONOR has entered more than 100 markets and ranked Top 5 in many markets including Europe, Midde East, Latin America and Malaysia.

An HONOR Smartphone Produced Every 28.5 Seconds

HONOR consistently dedicates over 10% of its annual income to Research and Development (R&D), with this commitment growing each year. In the realm of AI exploration alone, HONOR has invested upwards of 10 billion CNY.

At present, HONOR boasts world-class R&D and innovation capabilities, sustained by a team of over 8000 R&D professionals spread across 7 R&D centers and over 100 innovative laboratories. The pace of innovation is evident in the company's submission of over 300 new patent applications monthly.

Notably, HONOR has achieved an impressive 85% automation rate in its intelligent production line. This level of efficiency enables the manufacturing of a smartphone every 28.5 seconds, showcasing the brand's commitment to cutting-edge technology and streamlined production processes.

Emerging Battery Innovations from Automobile Industry to Smartphones

HONOR has unveiled its innovative approach to pushing the boundaries of material and structural technology, particularly evident in the Magic Series.

Breaking new ground, HONOR became the first brand to integrate emerging battery innovations from the automotive industry into smartphones, introducing the all-new Second-generation Silicon-carbon Battery to the HONOR Magic6 Series. With a theoretical capacity of 3579mAh/g for a pure silicon-based anode, this technology surpasses graphite by a remarkable tenfold. This development, akin to advancements seen in companies like Tesla, promises exceptional battery life and consistent performance.

Additionally, the Nano Crystal Shield featured in the HONOR Magic6 Pro is another testament to the brand's commitment to innovation. Through the utilization of advanced materials boasting a 50% improvement in crystal density, the Magic6 Pro achieves a shock absorption capability up to ten times greater than before. This enhancement ensures unparalleled durability, securing the device against accidental drops and impacts.

AI Falcon Camera System

Responding to the surge in popularity of "sportography" and the escalating importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI), smartphone manufacturers are doubling down on efforts to enhance capture speed and image clarity. With this, HONOR has taken proactive strides to spearhead camera innovation in the industry, with the HONOR Magic Series boasting a distinctive AI falcon camera system.

In the Image Lab located in Shenzhen, HONOR has embraced the All-scenarios Automated Comprehensive Photographic Testing System. This revolutionary approach enables the optimization of the HONOR Image Engine across an extensive array of anticipated scenarios, ensuring unparalleled performance in diverse shooting conditions. Additionally, HONOR has introduced proprietary testing equipment, a pivotal contribution to achieving the industry-leading focus accuracy of the 1200-point LiDAR Matrix Auto Focus System, notably featured in the Porsche Design HONOR Magic6 RSR.

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