Tuesday, April 29, 2025

TECNO Launches CAMON 40 Series with Sarah G

Innovative AI-driven technology brand TECNO today launched the new CAMON 40 Series – its latest flagship imaging product and most advanced AI smartphone ever - with popstar royalty and FIlipino icon Sarah Geronimo as brand ambassador.


The three models (CAMON 40 Premier 5G, CAMON 40 Pro 5G, and CAMON 40) are equipped with cutting-edge AI imaging technology and practical AI features, delivering industry-leading performance and enhanced experiences in imaging, creativity, and efficiency for users worldwide. 


“Sarah Geronimo and TECNO CAMON 40 Series are a perfect match. Her star power, relatability and ability to inspire millions of Filipinos align with TECNO’s passion to bring innovative smartphones to Filipinos so they can embrace and capture life’s best moments. With the TECNO CAMON 40 Series, even hard to catch, motion filled moments can be captured with sharp focus and clarity,” said Nana Chen, TECNO Region Marketing Director.


“I love the TECNO CAMON 40 Series because I can now take tons of photos of my fur baby. We share fun times playing, running around and hugging. Sometimes everything is just a blur. I’m excited to take more photos of my dog using TECNO CAMON 40,” said Sarah.  “Our team also can’t wait to take FlashSnaps during my performance. We can share more photos with my followers. I can share more perfect moments with them,” Sarah added.


With TECNO and Sarah's partnership, the CAMON 40 Series will not just give perfect snaps, but also bring Filipinos closer with their loved ones and favorite popstar - perfect moments, captured.



AI One-Tap FlashSnap Enables Ultimate Snapshot Photography


The CAMON 40 Series redefines mobile snap photography with the power of AI. At its core, the AI-driven FlashSnap mode seamlessly integrates with a powerful camera and a handy One-Tap Button, allowing users to instantly capture life’s most vibrant moments. 


The series leverages AI to revolutionize mobile photography through FlashSnap technology. With FlashSnap, AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing reduces noise and enhances details for sharper images. Additionally, the BestMoment AI algorithm intelligently analyzes motion patterns, automatically identifying and selecting the best frames to ensure precise captures in dynamic scenarios, offering users an unprecedented imaging experience.


 One-Tap FlashSnap revolutionizes snapshot photography


The CAMON 40 Premier 5G and CAMON 40 Pro 5G push AI-driven imaging innovation to new heights. The CAMON 40 Premier 5G’s 50MP Sony LYT-701 Ultra Night Camera collects over 56.25% more light than competitors and produces crystal-clear shots. A super-tuned shutter captures over 2600 times faster than the speed of a human blink for rapid action. 


Beyond One-Tap FlashSnap, the CAMON 40 Series also comprehensively improves the overall imaging experience. The CAMON 40 Premier 5G features a new 50MP Ultra-wide Angle Camera, a 50MP Periscope Telephone Camera and a 50MP AF Front Camera and is capable of 4K 60fps Pre-ISP Ultra Night Video with independent imaging chip, while the whole series is equipped with all-new wide-angle cameras with 50MP eye-track selfie. 


The CAMON 40 Pro 5G stands out with an exceptional camera score of 138 from DXOMARK, ranking No.1 in DXOMARK’s Global Photography Ranking Under $600 and the first smartphone of 2025 to receive DXOMARK’s Smart Choice Label.



TECNO’s Most Advanced AI Smartphone Revolutionizes AI Experience


The CAMON 40 Series is TECNO’s most advanced AI smartphone to date, setting a new standard for AI-driven productivity, creativity, and efficiency. Through TECNO AI, the series introduces practical AI applications, offering smarter and more localized innovations for a seamless AI user interaction experience. Powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity Ultimate Processor, the CAMON 40 Series solidifies its position as TECNO’s most intelligent and capable lineup to date. The CAMON 40 Premier 5G is the first to debut the premium MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate AI Processor, delivering an astounding 330% boost in AI performance.

 TECNO AI makes life more creative, convenient and efficient for global users


The CAMON 40 Series redefines AI-driven communication with the world’s first phone with AI-Powered 360° AI Call Assistant. This includes TECNO's pioneering Call Noise Cancellation, an exclusive industry-first innovation for enhanced clarity, along with Call Translation for real-time multi-language communication, Auto Answer to prevent users from missing important calls, and Call Summary for transcribing calls into text.


The CAMON 40 Series produces creative and professional imaging with outstanding AI Imaging Creation features based on local insights into global users’ imaging needs. It is the first to feature TECNO’s updated Universal Tone technology, letting users shoot portraits that capture diverse tones in even more true-to-life and inclusive representations. The AI Image Extender is also new for the CAMON 40 Series, letting users extend photos and restore details in complex scenes. For easier editing, the series also features upgraded AI Eraser 2.0, AIGC Portrait 2.0, AI Perfect Face and AI Sharpness Plus, further elevating the creativity and clarity of images.


Integrated with advanced AI capabilities, TECNO AI further enhances its ecosystem with smarter, more intuitive interactions. TECNO AI’s AI Efficiency tools enhance everyday productivity with features such as AI Writing for effortless content creation, Google-integrated Circle to Search for seamless online searching with just a swipe of a finger, and AI Translate, which offers the first real-time simultaneous translation with Bluetooth headphones on an Android device. The series also features the Ella AI Assistant with One-Tap Screen Query and Ask Ella, enabling users to make calls, create schedules, identify images and text, navigate, and perform various tasks, all while minimizing the need for manual input.


Durability and Craftsmanship: Engineered for Strength and Elegance


The CAMON 40 Series not only excels in intelligent features but also stands out with its robust and durable design, ensuring long-lasting reliability in any environment. 


With IP68 and IP69 dust and water resistance, the CAMON 40 Premier 5G, and CAMON 40 Pro 5G are built to withstand extreme conditions, including hot-water exposure. Meanwhile, the CAMON 40 is IP66 certified, offering reliable water-splash resistance for everyday protection. Equipped with Corning® Gorilla® Glass 7i, the CAMON 40 Series (Premier 5G/Pro 5G/Pro) offers outstanding protection against the elements, from dusty sandstorms to high humidity or snowfall. The whole series is SGS 5-Star Certified and features 360-degree Drop Resistance, providing superior protection against everyday impacts. The CAMON 40 Premier 5G and CAMON 40 Pro 5G also guarantee 72-month lag free performance with TÜV Rheinland certification.


The CAMON 40 Series features a strong yet stylish design


As well as durability, the series also reimagines classic CAMON design in a sleek and stylish upgrade. Retaining the classic Side-axis design, the series now features an elegant Swan-neck Curve adding a unique and sensory touch. Offering users design choice, the CAMON 40 Premier 5G features a striking Space Ring camera with watch-grade 3D precision textures, emphasizing professional imaging capabilities. 


When it comes to multimedia entertainment, the CAMON 40 Series delivers an immersive experience with its Ultra Bright AMOLED screen, Stereo Dual Speakers, and Dolby Atmos, bringing movies, games, and music to life. And the fun never has to end for long, thanks to the CAMON 40 Series’ powerful, long-lasting battery with a 5-year durability and the huge storage of up to 256GB+12GB. The CAMON 40 Premier 5G stands out with its 5100mAh battery, supporting up to 70W Ultra Charge.


As TECNO’s most advanced AI-enhanced smartphone ever, the CAMON 40 Series represents a new generation of devices and a breakthrough in practical AI that genuinely improves technology and life experiences for users. As well as creative and productive TECNO AI functions, the new CAMON 40 Series’ groundbreaking combination of enhanced snapshot capabilities and powerful AI imaging algorithms solidifies the series position as a premium and flagship imaging device for photography enthusiasts now and into the future. 


Be among the first to own a CAMON 40 Series smartphone


Priced competitively from PhP9,999 to PhP21,999, the CAMON 40 Series will be available from April 24. CAMON 40, CAMON 40 Pro 5G, CAMON 40 Premier 5G will be available on TikTok, Shopee and Lazada. CAMON 40 and CAMON 40 Premier 5G will also be available in retail stores start from April 24, CAMON 40 Pro 5G will be available offline after May 10 .


CAMON 40 will be priced PhP9,999 while CAMON 40 Premier 5G will be on sale for PhP21,999 on all online platforms and retail shops.


Priced at PhP12,999, the CAMON 40 Pro 5G 8+256 will be on offer for only PhP10,999 during the exclusive first sale on TikTok from April 24 to 30. First sale buyers will likewise receive limited edition CAMON premium gift sets which include Bluetooth speaker & power bank worth PhP1,999 .


With a standard retail price of PhP14,999, the CAMON 40 Pro 5G 12+256 will only cost PhP12,999 on its first sale on Shopee from April 24 to 30. Buyers will also receive limited edition CAMON premium gift sets.


CAMON 40 is available in glacier white and galaxy black colors. CAMON 40 Pro 5G is available in glacier white, galaxy black and emerald lake green colors. CAMON 40 Premier 5G is available in galaxy black and emerald lake green colors in Philippines.


Offline Pre-order and get exclusive perks


Pre-order the CAMON 40 Pro 5G from April 24 to May 10 in all TECNO offline stores and receive exclusive discounts and a CAMON premium gift set. The claiming period is from May 11 to 25, 2025.


Pre-order the CAMON 40 Pro 5G 8+256 and get PhP1,000 off the price plus 2,000 Boosted T-Spot points. Enjoy a PhP1,500 discount, as well as a Boosted T-SPOT points to 2,500 when you pre-order the CAMON 40 Pro 5G 12+256. Check this website to pre-order: https://wap.tspot.tecno.com/webApp/OrderPrePH?channel=SCAN_CODE_ON_SHOP




Purchase offline from April 24-May 10, 2025 through Specified installment payment and receive extra 500php for the whole CAMON 40 Series; CAMON 40, CAMON 40 Pro 5G and CAMON 40 Premier 5G. Up to a 12-month loan term with 0% interest per month, pay as low as PhP27 per day! Combined with CAMON 40 Pro 5G offline pre-order policy, up to PhP2,000 in discounts for CAMON 40 Pro 5G customers can get! 

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

10 Benefits of Reading for Kids (and Grown-Ups Too)

In a world where screens are always just a tap away, it’s easy to feel like books are quietly fading into the background. As a mom, I get it—it’s hard to compete with flashy cartoons and endless YouTube videos. But deep down, I still believe in the magic of stories told through pages, not pixels. 

Reading has always been a big part of my life; now, I want that same wonder for my kids. Because beyond just teaching ABCs and fairy tales, reading builds something deeper—something that lasts.

Here are some reasons why I believe reading still matters. 

1. Builds stronger brains
Reading stimulates language centers in the brain. The earlier they start, the better their vocabulary, comprehension, and communication skills.

2. Boosts imagination
A book can take a child to Mars, a secret garden, or a jungle ruled by talking animals—all without leaving the couch.

3. Improves focus and patience
Unlike fast-paced apps, books require attention. Kids learn to slow down and stick with a story from start to finish.

4. Strengthens emotional intelligence
Books teach empathy. Kids get to “feel” what others go through—whether it's a dragon feeling lonely or a girl standing up for herself.

5. Encourages creativity and curiosity
One good book can spark a million questions. And that’s how learning begins.

6. Enhances bonding moments
Reading aloud before bedtime? That’s a core memory. It’s warmth, comfort, and connection—wrapped in pages.

7. Builds confidence in school
Strong readers usually do better across subjects. Reading sharpens their skills in math, science, and beyond.

8. Provides comfort and escape
For anxious or shy kids, books can be a safe space—a friend, even.

9. Teaches values and life lessons
From kindness and courage to honesty and humility, stories teach things even lectures can’t.

10. Lasts a lifetime
A child who loves to read grows into an adult who seeks wisdom, clarity, and joy from words. And that’s a gift they carry forever.


So how do we raise readers in a world of screens?

Let’s keep it simple, doable, and loving. Here’s what worked for me (and what might work for you too):

1. Make books visible

Put books where they can see and reach them—by the bed, in the car, even beside their gadgets.

2. Lead by example

Let them catch you reading. Whether it's a novel or your grocery list, let them see that books matter to you too.

3. Create cozy reading moments

Soft pillows, warm blankets, and 15 quiet minutes can turn reading into a treat, not a chore.

4. Let them choose

Comics? Sticker books? Yes to all! What matters is they’re flipping pages.

5. Use screens with intention

There are beautifully animated story apps and narrated audiobooks—tech can be a bridge, not a wall.

6. Read aloud—even to big kids

Even older children still love being read to. It's bonding disguised as learning.

7. Visit bookstores and libraries, join the next Philippine Book Festival

Make it an adventure. Let them pick one book “just because.”

At the end of the day, raising a reader isn’t about strict rules or big goals. It’s about moments. It’s the snuggle at bedtime, the giggle at a funny line, the gasp at a plot twist.

It’s about giving our kids the quiet confidence that comes from knowing a book is always there—waiting, patient, ready to tell them a story.

Read with them. Read to them. Read beside them. And little by little, they’ll start to read on their own—when they’re ready, and when the story feels just right.

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Finding the Perfect Balance: Why the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini Wireless Mouse Works for Both Mom Life and Gamer Kids

As a work-from-home mom juggling deadlines, Google Meet calls, and the occasional “Mom, the mouse isn’t working again!” meltdown, I’m always on the lookout for gadgets that deliver functionality, reliability, and value.

Enter the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini Wireless Mouse — a mouthful to say, but oh, what a game-changer this tiny gadget has been for our home.


A Mouse That Works as Hard as You Do

Let’s be real — between school projects, online classes, and my own digital marketing tasks, our home setup has to do double (sometimes triple) duty. What caught my attention with the Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini wasn’t just the cool gamer aesthetic (which my son loved instantly), but the ultra-lightweight and compact build.




It’s 16% smaller than the standard version, making it ideal for smaller hands — perfect for kids, teens,  and surprisingly comfortable for adults too. I didn’t think I’d like the mini size at first, but it actually reduced wrist strain during long work sessions.

Wireless Freedom Without the Hassle

We’ve all experienced the chaos of tangled wires, especially when sharing a desk with a curious cat or a Lego-building child. The dual wireless feature (2.4GHz and Bluetooth) gave us total freedom to switch between devices — no unplugging, no drama.

Plus, with up to 100 hours of battery life, it’s one less thing to worry about charging in the middle of a busy week.

For School, Work… and Yes, Gaming

Let’s not pretend that when school is over, the kids jump straight into Minecraft or Roblox. The HyperX 26K Sensor offers precise tracking and response time, which my son swears “feels like winning.” I, on the other hand, appreciate the smooth skates and quiet clicks when I’m in a meeting and trying to multitask like a ninja.

Budget-Friendly Without Cutting Corners

As a mom, I don’t splurge unless something truly gives value — and this mouse does. It’s light on the pocket, especially for something that serves both serious work and serious play. No unnecessary frills, just solid performance.

And it’s built to last, rated for up to 100 million clicks. That’s a lot of school assignments and Google Docs.

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini Wireless surprised me. I bought it thinking it would be for my son’s online school setup, but ended up using it myself just as much. Whether you’re a mom managing your remote work life or a parent supporting your kids' learning (and gaming) needs, this mouse offers style, speed, and simplicity in one neat little package.

Sometimes, the smallest tools really do make the biggest difference. 

The HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Mini Wireless Gaming Mouse is available in the Philippines for approximately ₱3,495.00. You can find it at retailers such as DataBlitz and GameXtreme.

3 Must-Read Books by Filipino Authors from Local Publishers

Support local and dive into these 3 books by Filipino authors, each from a different homegrown publisher. From kilig romance to magical merboys, there’s something here for every reader.

If you're on the hunt for your next good read and want to support local talent, you're in the right place. Filipino authors have long been crafting powerful, heartfelt, and imaginative stories, and our local publishers have been instrumental in bringing these gems to light.

Here are five books from five proudly Filipino publishing houses that deserve a spot on your reading list.

Credit: Facebook Page

1. You Could Be the One by Ana Tejano

Publisher: RomanceClass Publishing
Genre: Contemporary Romance

If you're into slow-burn, emotionally satisfying romances, this book is the one. Set in the Philippines, it follows the story of a woman trying to move forward—only to have her past come knocking. Quite literally.

Why read it?

Ana Tejano knows how to write real love. The kind that takes time, hurts a little, and heals a lot. This is peak hugot territory, backed by the kilig we all secretly (or not-so-secretly) crave. RomanceClass consistently champions Filipino talent and relatable stories, and this one is a fan favorite for a reason.

Other Book: Unveiling the Power of Womanhoo

2. Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata by Ricky Lee

Publisher: Anvil Publishing
Genre: Satirical Fiction / LGBTQ+ / Political Commentary

Si Amapola sa 65 na Kabanata follows the life of Amapola, a gay impersonator who becomes an unlikely hero in a story that blends political satire, mysticism, and Philippine pop culture. Only Ricky Lee can weave a plot this wild and make it hit that hard.

Why read it?
Because it’s unlike anything else. Bold, hilarious, and deeply rooted in Filipino identity, it challenges the norm while celebrating the richness of queer and Filipino narratives. This is modern literature with teeth—and heart.

Other Book: Moymoy Lulumboy

3. Marvin the Merboy 


Publisher: Inteligente Publishing
Genre: Children’s Literature / Fantasy

Meet Marvin—a curious merboy with big dreams and even bigger questions. In a world that says “stay in your lane,” Marvin wonders if maybe… there’s more. This children’s book is both whimsical and grounding, with beautiful illustrations to match.

Why read it?

It’s inclusive, magical, and so full of heart. Inteligente Publishing has been pushing for more diverse, representative stories, and Marvin the Merboy is proof that we’re heading in the right direction. A perfect bedtime story that sparks bigger conversations.

There’s something so special about seeing ourselves, our stories, and our culture in the books we read. These titles—each from a different local publisher—remind us that Filipino voices are vibrant, diverse, and very much worth celebrating.

So the next time you’re building your TBR pile, make sure at least one of these local reads makes the cut.

Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Why We Need More Philippine Book Festivals—And Why They Should Happen Quarterly

Because one weekend isn’t enough to celebrate a lifetime love of reading and to give Filpino authors the spotlight they deserve. 

If you’ve ever been to a book festival, you know the feeling. That warm, giddy mix of excitement and comfort as you walk through rows of books, bump into favorite authors, and discover titles you didn’t even know you needed. You go home with a bag full of stories—and a heart full of inspiration.

And then it ends.

One weekend. Once a year.

For a country as rich in stories and talent as the Philippines, that’s just not enough.

Stories Deserve More Space

Our country has so many voices, but most of them don’t get the spotlight they deserve. With only one major book festival each year, things get rushed. There’s not enough time to explore niche genres like Philippine mythology (my personal favorite), discover indie authors, or dive deep into new releases from small publishers.

If we had book festivals every quarter, we could slow things down. Give more writers the chance to shine. Let more readers actually sit, listen, learn—and fall in love with books all over again.

More Than a Trend—It Should Be a Habit

Reading is a habit, not a holiday.

Book festivals create moments where people remember how fun and meaningful it is to read. But imagine if we had four of these moments in a year. That’s four chances to build excitement, grow young readers, and keep the book-loving energy going all year long.

Families could make it a tradition. Schools could time their reading programs around it. Communities could come together more often—not just for book sales but for shared stories.

Our Local Creators Need Consistent Support

Quarterly festivals mean local authors and illustrators get more visibility and more sales. They get to launch books on their own timeline instead of waiting for a once-a-year slot. And they get to connect with readers in a more personal, sustained way.

As someone who has worked in media, marketing, and content creation for years, I’ve seen how regular exposure can make or break a creative’s journey. It’s not about viral hits—it’s about showing up repeatedly. Quarterly events give them the space to do that.

Stories Should Travel, Too

Book festivals shouldn't just live in Metro Manila. Our stories come from every corner of the country, so our celebrations should, too. Let’s bring these events to Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Baguio, GenSan—everywhere. A rotating quarterly schedule means different regions get their turn, and more people can join.

No one should be left out of the magic of books.

Let’s Keep the Stories Alive

Books are more than paper and ink—they’re part of our identity. Our history, our dreams, our healing. Philippine mythology, poetry, essays, and fiction all carry pieces of who we are. And when we gather around books, we’re not just reading—we’re remembering, rebuilding, and reimagining.

This is why I believe we need more Philippine Book Festivals. Not just once a year. Not just when there’s a budget. But regularly. Purposefully. Proudly.

Let’s create more space for stories. Let’s make room for more voices.

Let’s make book festivals a part of every Filipino’s year—every single quarter.