Canon Introduces New imagePROGRAF TC-21, a Desktop Large Format Printer, for A1+ Compatible Printing

The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 handles multiple media sizes from A1+ CAD drawings down to postcards, making it ideal for architectural drawings, posters, and promotional materials.

Canon announced the new imagePROGRAF TC-21, successor to the imagePROGRAF TC-20 compact desktop large format printer. As a step up, the Auto Sheet Feeder (ASF) in the imagePROGRAF TC-21, has been enhanced to meet varied printing needs such as production of publicity materials, architectural and design drawings. The printer’s tiltable panel and flexibility in installation location improve the user experience as adjustments can be made easily. For the first time ever, a large-format printer in the imagePROGRAF series has recycled steel in a part of its body, making it more environmentally friendly. 

With its compact design and front-accessible paper loading and ink filling functions, the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 offers maximum space efficiency without compromising performance

Tiltable Operation Panel for Easier Viewing

For the imagePROGRAF TC-21, it is designed to be as space-saving as possible. For example, print-related operations like the paper set and ink filling can be performed from the front of the printer. In addition, it has a tilt-type operation panel that provides comfortable and enhanced usability as the angle can be adjusted according to the user's preferences. Even if the imagePROGRAF TC-21 is installed on a low shelf, users will still find it easy to operate. 

Wide Range of Media Sizes and Types

With its versatile media handling capabilities, the imagePROGRAF TC-21 not only supports printing from A1+ roll paper, but also other types of media like A3 and A4 sizes, postcards, envelopes and labels fed via an auto sheet feeder. It can also adapt to printing the same content in different sizes, such as an A1 scale drawing for submission, an A4 drawing for review, a large poster for a restaurant menu and an A6 or postcard-sized flyer for table placement. 

Featuring high-capacity ink tanks, the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 delivers efficient printing that reduces refilling frequency and improves productivity.

Printing Enhancements

The “Minimal Margin Printing” function allows users to print on roll paper with no top and bottom margins, with minimal margins on the left and right sides. The imagePROGRAF TC-21 adopts the image processing method like the higher-end model to print posters in vivid colours even on plain paper, thus making the creations more impactful. The high-capacity ink tank in the imagePROGRAF TC-21 also enables efficient printing and reduces the time required for ink refiling. To express their creativity, users can utilise the free software, “PosterArtist” to create posters and flyers that help bring their vision to life.

Environmentally Friendly Materials

As part of efforts to care for the environment, approximately 5% recycled steel and 40% recycled resin were integrated into certain parts of the printer's body. In addition, the product packaging is made of recyclable cardboard instead of polystyrene foam. With high environmental performance, the TC-21 has been registered as a gold product under U.S. environmental assessment system EPEAT.

The environmentally-conscious Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 incorporates approximately 5% recycled steel and 40% recycled resin in its construction, earning gold registration under the U.S. EPEAT environmental assessment system.

Enhanced image processing in the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21 produces vibrant color output even on plain paper, ideal for creating eye-catching posters and presentations.

More Than 300 Monde Nissin Runners Join SILAKBO 2025 to Champion Environment and Community Wellness

 

Over 300 Monde Nissin employees unite under the 'Our Power, Our Planet' theme at SILAKBO 2025, demonstrating their commitment to environmental conservation and community wellness at South Evozone, Nuvali.

In a powerful display of unity and commitment to sustainability, over 300 Monde Nissin employees took part in SILAKBO 2025 (Sikad-Lakad-Takbo), an annual fun run held at South Evozone, Nuvali. Now in its 17th year, the event united participants around the shared goal of environmental conservation and community empowerment through the theme “Our Power, Our Planet.”

Monde Nissin team members embody their corporate mission of 'Making Better Possible' as they participate in the 17th annual SILAKBO fun run, supporting the S3R2 Foundation's watershed protection initiatives in Santa Rosa, Laguna.

Organized by the Save Silang Santa Rosa River (S3R2) Foundation in collaboration with the City Government of Santa Rosa, Laguna, and Nuvali, SILAKBO 2025 is the organization’s flagship advocacy campaign dedicated to protecting the Silang-Santa Rosa Sub-watershed and promoting sustainable development practices in the region.

As one of the key partners, Monde Nissin mobilized hundreds of its employees to join the initiative, bringing its advocacy to life and further reflecting its corporate mission of "Making Better Possible."

Monde Nissin runners cross the finish line at the 17th annual SILAKBO fun run, directly supporting S3R2 Foundation's ongoing initiatives for watershed protection, water quality monitoring, and tree planting activities in the Silang-Santa Rosa region.

“The event isn’t just a fun run for us. It’s about our shared commitment to the planet and each other,” said Marie Perona, Senior Manager for People and Culture at Monde Nissin. “Monde Nissin believes in creating experiences that support our employees’ health and wellness, while also making a positive impact on the communities where we operate. This is what ‘Making Better Possible’ really means.”

Proceeds from the event will go directly towards S3R2’s efforts for watershed protection, water quality monitoring, and tree planting activities they hope to organize in line with their mission.

Beyond promoting fitness and camaraderie, SILAKBO is a platform for rallying the public and private sectors toward sustainable and inclusive action. The event underscores the powerful role that businesses such as Monde Nissin play in making a tangible difference for both people and the planet.

realme Philippines Teases New GT 7 Series with 7000mAh and 120W Combo that Redefines Battery Power

 

realme is ready to shake things up again in the tech world with the upcoming release of its newest flagship gaming smartphone, the realme GT 7 Series. Dubbed the “Battery Life Leader,” the realme GT 7 Series features a ground-breaking industry-first 7000mAh and 120W fast-charging, allowing gamers to enjoy more screen time and secure more victories in the battle. 

This exciting reveal follows the release of realme’s latest white paper, “The Future of Battery Tech,” developed in partnership with TÜV Rheinland, a leading global testing and certification organization. The paper underscores how realme continues to push the limits of what’s possible in battery innovation, reaffirming its reputation as the “Battery Tech Pioneer.” 

Here’s how realme stays ahead of the game:

Bringing its A-Game in Battery Technology

The brand’s research shows that the demand for longer battery life and faster charging continues to grow. The paper also highlights how traditional lithium-ion batteries are hitting their limits—the material is aging too fast and charging too slowly, hindering overall performance and efficiency. 

As the battery tech pioneer, realme addresses these issues with next-gen solutions, combining ultra-fast charging with a smarter, longer-lasting battery. For instance, realme's 320W fast-charging system, powered by magnetic-coupling DCX step-down technology, can fully charge the concept phone in just 4 minutes and 30 seconds. Additionally, by optimizing multi-cell configurations with a precision BMS system and AI integration, realme has extended battery lifespan while ensuring robust safety at both the cell and device levels, designed for Filipino users who need their phones to keep up from sunup to sundown.

This innovation solidifies realme’s commitment to developing high-capacity batteries that meet industry-leading safety, stability, and long-term performance standards. 

Setting a New Power Standard: 7000mAh + 120W Battery Combo

realme also understands the challenges the industry is facing in balancing large capacity with fast charging. Equipping the phone with a high-capacity battery and fast-charging technology has always been a struggle due to safety concerns. Batteries as large as 7000mAh have been limited to slower charging speeds, typically capped at 80W or less. However, realme is ready to break that limit and change the narrative by introducing the first-ever smartphone, the realme GT 7 Series, to pair a 7000mAh battery with 120W fast charging. This superb combo powers up the phone from 0 to 100% in just 40 minutes, allowing gamers to enjoy uninterrupted gameplay of up to 8.9 hours of Mobile Legends.

This breakthrough in battery technology perfectly balances charging speed, battery longevity, and safety, allowing users to have the needed speed and power without compromise. 

Availability in the Philippines 

The global launch of realme GT 7 Series will happen on May 27 in Paris, France, and local gamers won’t have to wait long since this smartphone powerhouse will also make its debut in the Philippines through a live broadcast. 

Along with this groundbreaking innovation, it’s expected that even more exciting performance features will be unveiled, capturing the attention of tech enthusiasts worldwide. To top it off, local fans can look forward to the official SRP and exclusive launch promos specially prepared for them.

Join the live unveiling broadcast of the realme GT 7 Series on realme’s official Facebook, Tiktok, and YouTube pages to get an exclusive first look at its powerful, game-changing features. 

Sony Unveils the FE 50-150mm F2 GM: Power, Precision, and Performance in Every Shot

Sony introduces the FE 50-150mm F2 GM, the world’s first1 telephoto zoom lens with a maximum focal length of 150 mm and F2 aperture. This lens features a standard focal length of 50mm at the wide-angle end and combines an open aperture of F2 with high resolution comparable to that of a prime lens. This allows for a wide range of scenarios with just one lens for various situations and subjects. As part of Sony’s renowned G Master™ series, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM offers an exceptional combination of high resolution and stunning bokeh, enhancing the imaging results for professionals using the Sony Alpha camera system.

Exceptional Image Quality and Smooth F2 Bokeh

The FE 50-150mm F2 GM's internal optical design plays a crucial role in producing its exceptional image quality. By integrating two XA (extreme aspherical) elements, two Super ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements, and three ED elements, the lens effectively suppresses aberrations, ensuring sharp, high-contrast imagery across the entire zoom range. Additionally, the floating focusing system enables a minimum focusing distance of 0.4m at the wide end and a maximum magnification of 0.20 for detailed shooting.

The FE 50-150mm F2 GM's constant F2 aperture creates beautifully smooth bokeh, making it an ideal choice for portrait, wedding, and event photographers aiming to isolate subjects with a shallow depth of field. A newly developed 11-blade circular aperture further enhances the signature G Master bokeh. When shooting videos, the lens delivers stunning cinematic results and exceptional clarity. 

In addition, Sony's proprietary "Nano AR Coating II," applied uniformly across the entire lens surface, significantly reduces ghosting and flare even in backlit conditions, delivering clear and crisp imagery.

Internal Zoom and Compact Design

Measuring at approximately 200 mm (7-7/8 inches) in length and weighing approximately 1,340g (47.3 ounces), the FE 50-150mm F2 GM offers remarkable portability considering its impressive combination of wide zoom range and bright aperture. This lens is ideal for both handheld and gimbal use with its featured internal zoom design that maintains the lens’ length and weight balance despite focal length changes. With its practical design, this lens serves as a versatile, all-in-one solution for those seeking a standard 50mm through 150mm telephoto range.

Fast and Precise Autofocus Performance

Equipped with four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors and Sony’s advanced control algorithms, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM delivers fast, accurate, and quiet autofocus (AF). This high-performance AF system is compatible with Sony's Alpha 9 III, supporting continuous shooting at up to 120 frames per second with full AF/AE tracking. With a fast AF system and a versatile 50-150 mm zoom range, the lens excels at capturing fast-paced indoor sports, portraits and events.

Cinematic Video Production

Designed with filmmakers in mind, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM minimizes focus breathing and is compatible with Sony's Breathing Compensation feature on select Alpha cameras. Linear Response MF ensures intuitive manual focus control, while the lens’s internal zoom design maintains stability even while zooming mounted on gimbals. Additionally, the XD linear motors operate quietly to prevent unwanted noise from being captured during recording.

Built for durability, the FE 50-150mm F2 GM features a robust dust- and moisture-resistant design. A fluorine coating on the front element repels contaminants, making it easy to clean and ensuring the lens remains in top condition even in challenging environments.

Availability

The FE 50-150mm F2 GM (SEL50150GM) will be available in Authorized Sony dealers from May 2025. 

Early Bird Promo: SEL50150GM

Starting from May 19 until June 1, 2025, customers who purchase the FE 50-150mm F2 GM during this promotional period will receive one (1) unit of the 80GB Sony CF Express Type A, valued at PHP 14,950.00. Additionally, earn 60,000 MySony points for registrations until June 1, 2025. These exclusive promotions are available at all participating Sony Centres and authorized retailers. Please note that Early bird offer cannot be combined with any existing Sony Camera promotions. Visit this link for more information: https://bit.ly/SEL50150GMEarlyBirdPromo

A product video on the new FE 50-150mm F2 GM can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/o-SZCS4SgRw

For detailed product information about FE 50-150mm F2 GM please visit: https://www.sony.com.ph/electronics/camera-lenses/sel50150gm 

Beyond the algorithm: Championing responsible AI, empowering women in tech

GCash, the Philippines’ leading finance super app, reaffirmed its commitment to AI-driven innovation and inclusivity through GCash AI Week 2025.

GCash AVP of automation center of excellence Michelle Santos highlighted the role of AI in daily workflows

The event gathered industry leaders, technology partners, and emerging innovators to explore artificial intelligence's (AI) transformative potential in fintech while emphasizing responsible AI practices and women's critical role in technology.

Guided by the theme “AI-CHIEVED: Explore, Empower, Elevate,” GCash AI Week provided a dynamic platform for thought leadership, collaboration, and hands-on learning. The event featured esteemed partners, including Apple, Google, and Amazon Web Services (AWS), and engaged employees, university students, and fintech professionals in discussions on ethical AI, data-driven decision-making, and the future of intelligent automation.

Kicking off the event, Pebbles Sy, chief technology and operations officer of Mynt, the holding company of GCash, underscored the company’s vision for AI as a force multiplier for innovation and efficiency: “AI Week is about building confidence in AI, understanding its real value, and making it a natural part of how we work. It goes beyond just automation, it’s about intelligent insights, better decisions, and unlocking new levels of innovation.”

Sy shared, “AI is already changing the way we work at GCash. Tools like Glean, Gemini, and Dev Copilots are making our processes faster, smarter, and more efficient, and this year, we’re taking it even further. AI is only as good as how we use it, and we’re making sure that AI is here to empower all of us.”

GCash chief data officer Sara Venturina emphasized the critical role of ethics and diverse perspectives in AI development

The event showcased real-world AI applications, featuring sessions such as “Apple Intelligence: Unleash,” where participants learned how to maximize Apple’s AI-driven features on iPhones and MacBooks. The Amazon Quicksight Hackathon by AWS challenged teams to build AI-powered dashboards using Generative AI. Attendees also explored advanced AI capabilities, including large reasoning models with Deep Seek, enterprise AI with Glean, and next-level productivity tools with Google’s Gemini AI.

AI Week also highlighted the importance of AI literacy and upskilling across the organization. Michelle Santos, AVP of the Automation Center of Excellence at GCash, emphasized the necessity of integrating AI into everyday workflows: “AI Week is our way of equipping GCash employees with the skills to augment their daily tasks through AI tools and platforms. This is a critical capability for the future of work; using AI should become natural.”

Through hands-on workshops, hackathons, and expert-led sessions, GCash demonstrated its commitment to fostering an AI-ready workforce. Employees gained direct experience in leveraging AI for operational efficiency, customer engagement, and data-driven decision-making, reinforcing the company’s agile and innovation-driven culture.

GCash AI Week 2025 also placed a strong emphasis on responsible AI development, ethics, and diversity. As a woman-led company with a leadership team that includes trailblazers in fintech and AI, GCash continues to advocate for gender inclusivity in technology. The event honored the contributions of women in STEM, spotlighting female engineers, data scientists, and tech leaders who are shaping the fintech landscape.

“We must recognize that ethics, human insights, and diverse perspectives are essential to innovating AI,” said Sara Venturina, chief data officer of GCash. “AI teams need diversity in thought, background, and experience, as this directly impacts how AI applications operate. Will they show bias, or will they be fair?”

GCash’s approach to financial inclusion extends to tackling bias in AI development, ensuring that its data collection, labelling, and application processes are designed to serve all users equitably. By fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and continuous learning, GCash aims to set industry standards for responsible AI adoption.

Through initiatives like GCash AI Week, the company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in fintech. By embedding AI into its operations responsibly and equitably, GCash is not just driving innovation—it is shaping a future where AI serves as a catalyst for inclusion, empowerment, and financial progress.

As AI technology continues to evolve, GCash remains steadfast in its mission to democratize financial access, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital economy.

Let These Dream Summer Vacays of Laureen & Maki Inspire Your Next Trip

 Think you’ve seen everything Siargao and Boracay have to offer? Think again! This summer, travel lovers and content creators Laureen Uy and Maki Santos set out on their dream summer adventures to rediscover two of the Philippines’ most iconic vacation spots. 

But let’s get real: planning a dream summer trip isn’t always a breeze. Budgeting, racing for the best deals on flights and hotels, and even scrambling for cash when splitting bills with friends can get stressful. For many, it's the hassle that holds them back from achieving their dream summer.

Luckily, Laureen and Maki have found a way to skip the stress and go straight to the fun. From hidden dining gems to unique activities and the best sunset views, both creators have put together itineraries all booked and paid for with GCash, proving that even the most iconic destinations still have surprises to offer when everything’s made seamless.

Stay at the Center and Explore Beyond in Boracay

Boracay has always been special to Maki. But this time, her itinerary was all about going beyond the usual spots the island is known for and finding its best-kept secrets. She started her trip by checking in at the Four Points by Sheraton, right in the heart of Boracay. 

With her L.A.P. (Location, Aesthetic, Price) strategy, she prioritized finding a hotel in a 

central location, a stunning design, and affordability, made even easier with GGives, a feature on the GCash app that lets users pay for things that usually feel too expensive - like hotel bookings for a trip - and pay for them in easy installments, with no down payment needed! 

“I’ve always been the planner in the group... There’s a special kind of joy in watching my friends soak up the moment, knowing I helped bring it all together,” Maki explains.

Her journey to finding Boracay’s best-kept secrets took her paraw sailing to catch amazing views of the island on a traditional local sailboat made of wood and bamboo, an exhilarating adventure in Mainland Adventures Boracay, and even a Helicopter Ride to see the island from above. These activities can be paid for online with GCash via platforms such as Klook, so that everything is ready and raring to go at the destination.

Between activities, she also tried out new dining spots like Gyukatsu for melt-in-your-mouth Japanese beef, Mai Tai for island-inspired drinks, and Maze Wrap for a variety of Mediterranean wraps and rice meals. 

“What makes the experience even better is how seamless everything is with GCash. From booking activities to paying for meals, one tap and I’m all set!” Maki adds.

Food Hop and Island Hop in Siargao

Over in Siargao, Laureen Uy’s dream summer experience is one that embraces the spontaneity that comes with being able to travel with her besties! On a foodie-focused  girls’ trip that balanced local flavor and scenic adventure, Laureen’s itinerary is the perfect guide for anyone heading to Siargao this summer. 

Her first stop on her local restaurant hop was to enjoy a feast fresh from the sea at Cev, famous for their kinilaw and ceviche, before heading to Roots for some European flare, and Mondayyy’s Cafe, an all-day breakfast spot and one of Siargao’s newcomers to its exciting cafe scene. Every restaurant accepts QR payments via GCash, so every transaction is fast and seamless.

But this escape to Siargao wasn’t just about food. Laureen’s all-girls crew also set sail for a scenic island-hopping trip to Mam-on Island and Corregidor Island, taking in breathtaking views and topping it all off with a traditional boodle feast. It’s the perfect itinerary for anyone who’s craving an island adventure with friends. 

Another trip highlight for Laureen is enjoying a chill sunset session at Kanaloa Beach, complete with bonfires, kayaking, and beachside drinks.

“Hotel bookings, activities, shopping, and eating on the island? All check! Even down to travel insurance, just to make sure we’re protected from any unexpected hurdles, GCash has GInsure Travel Protect. At every point of planning from paying online, to scanning to pay with their merchants, and buying all my essentials, my summers are forever changed for the better,” Laureen excitedly shares.

Plan Your Dream Summer with GCash

Whether you're a meticulous planner or a spontaneous adventurer, one thing’s clear from Laureen and Maki’s trips: GCash is the way to pay for your dream summer. From booking hotels and buying insurance, to dining out, and joining activities, GCash made everything easier so they could focus on what really matters: rediscovering the magic of their favorite places.

Feeling so G to make your dream summer happen? Now’s your chance! Until May 18, send in your video entries to join GCash’s dream summer giveaway for a chance to win a trip for 2 to Boracay, complete with flights and accommodations courtesy of GCash! Visit the official GCash pages on Instagram and Facebook to learn more.