I was lucky enough to be invited to an exclusive Samsung Galaxy Unpacked media preview held last July 4 in Makati City, where I got a firsthand experience of Samsung’s latest game-changers—the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7.
As a content creator, witnessing this technological reveal before the official launch on July 9 was an unforgettable moment. The hands-on preview gave me a close-up look at how Samsung continues to redefine mobile innovation with sleek, powerful, and flexible devices that cater to both productivity and personal style.
🔹 Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: Powerhouse for Gaming and Multitasking
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 isn’t just made for productivity—it’s also built for next-level mobile gaming. With its expansive main screen and improved refresh rate, this foldable transforms into a portable gaming console the moment you unfold it. During the preview, I tested a few high-performance games and immediately noticed the smoother graphics, faster response time, and immersive gameplay experience.
* Improved cooling system keeps the phone from overheating during long sessions
* Top-tier processor handles heavy games without lag
* Split-screen multitasking means you can chat, stream, or browse walkthroughs while gaming
But beyond gaming, it still stands strong for blogging, content creation, vlogging, and social media management. The Galaxy Z Fold 7 lets you edit photos or videos on one side, monitor analytics on the other, and even take notes with the S Pen—all at once.
Whether you're raiding dungeons, editing reels, or managing multiple apps, the Z Fold 7 adapts to your every move.
The Galaxy Z Fold 7 felt like a mini workstation in the palm of my hand. With a more durable hinge, sleeker design, and improved multitasking interface, it’s made for power users like entrepreneurs, professionals, and creators.
📱 Key features I noticed:
* Refined folding mechanism – smoother and sturdier
* A brighter and more vivid inner display
* S Pen compatibility with a more intuitive layout
* Seamless transition from cover screen to full screen
* Lighter and thinner compared to its predecessor
This phone is for those who demand more from their mobile device—whether it’s split-screen productivity, editing content on the go, or reading documents comfortably.
🔸 Galaxy Z Flip 7: Compact, Chic, and Totally You
The Galaxy Z Flip 7 remains a top pick for users who want style and function in one sleek, foldable form. It’s compact enough to slip into a clutch or pocket, yet opens up to a full-sized smartphone with Samsung’s signature Infinity Flex Display—perfect for selfies, content creation, and all-day connectivity.
💡 What stood out:
* An upgraded FlexWindow lets you do more without opening the phone: check messages, take selfies, or control your playlist.
* Enhanced nightography features on the camera elevate low-light photography.
* Available in fresh, vibrant colors with a sleeker, more durable hinge.
💖 Bonus Hands-On: Galaxy Z Flip FE (Fan Edition)
Aside from the Flip 7, I also got to experience the Galaxy Z Flip FE—a more affordable version of Samsung’s iconic foldable. Personally, I really liked it. It delivers the core Flip experience in a lighter, more accessible package. Though it doesn't have the Infinity Flex Display like the flagship Flip 7, it still folds beautifully and performs impressively for everyday use.
🌟 My quick thoughts:
* Perfect for casual users who want the foldable lifestyle without the premium price tag.
* Great for social media, selfies, and daily tasks.
* Sleek and stylish, with fewer bells and whistles but all the fun of the flip!
Whether you're going all-out with the Flip 7 or trying out foldables for the first time with the Flip 7 FE, Samsung is clearly making the foldable experience more inclusive for every kind of user.
✨ My Experience at the Preview Event
Held at a stylish venue at Shooting GalleryStudios - Studio Red in Makati City, the media preview felt like stepping into the future. Samsung set up experiential zones where we could fold, flip, snap, and test the new devices with expert guidance. I also had the chance to network with fellow tech enthusiasts and digital creators.
We were encouraged to explore how the Fold 7 and Flip 7 would fit into our daily lifestyles—whether for productivity, content creation, fashion, or entertainment.
Both the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Flip 7 FE impressed me with their sleek design, refined performance, and purposeful innovation. Whether you’re a multitasker, trendsetter, or storyteller, there’s a foldable for you.
Watch my video at my Tiktok @palrainedotcom now. And I’ll be sharing more impressions (and maybe a wishlist!) after the global launch. 💙✨
Davao Bloggers Society, Davao TradMed & Davao SocMed & Content Creators with Ms. JOANA of TaroAox
Thank you so much Samsung Philippines & TaroAoX for inviting me again (for the 3rd time). Hope to see you again soon!
Galaxy Unpacked Batch 3
Once upon a digital time, blogging was a powerful voice—and for many of us, it still is. As someone who has been writing for years, I’ve used my platforms to share real stories, personal experiences, and authentic reflections. I never claimed to be an expert, just someone who enjoys writing about life as it happens.
But in recent years, the social media space has introduced a new term that seems to be everywhere: KOL—Key Opinion Leader.
💡 So What is a KOL?
A KOL is someone considered an authority or expert in a specific field—whether it’s skincare, tech, parenting, or fashion. Brands now often partner with KOLs to promote products or services because of their niche knowledge and strong influence over their followers.
They’re like influencers—but more niche, more trusted, and often more focused on expertise than aesthetics.
And while I respect the work KOLs do, I don’t see myself as one.
✍️ I’m a Blogger, Not a KOL
I’m not here to teach or influence in the traditional marketing sense. I write because I love to. I document experiences—good food I’ve tried, events I’ve attended, products that worked for me (or didn’t), and thoughts that feel too meaningful not to share.
I don’t have a niche. I don’t have a formula. And I don’t position myself as an authority.
What I do have is a voice—and stories that come from lived moments, not from expert credentials.
📲 How Social Media Has Shifted
With the rise of TikTok, Reels, and short-form video, it’s clear that today’s digital audience consumes faster, scrolls quicker, and engages differently. Brands have shifted focus from long-form storytelling to eye-catching visuals and fast impact.
And honestly? That shift hasn’t been easy for many bloggers like me.
Blogging is reflective. It's slow. It’s personal. But today’s platforms reward speed, trends, and virality.
😕 What Happens to Bloggers Like Me?
We feel the shift. We see the attention moving to platforms and creators who entertain, inform, or persuade within seconds. And sometimes we wonder—where do we fit in this new ecosystem?
We don’t always go viral.
We don’t always use filters, trending audio, or jump on every social challenge.
We’re just here—writing from the heart, not from a content calendar.
And yet, I believe there’s still space for that.
🧡 There’s Still Power in Personal Voice
Not everyone wants fast content all the time. Some people still crave depth. Some still want to read something meaningful over their morning coffee, or get to know someone through their honest words—not just a curated reel.
And that’s where we bloggers still matter.
We may not be KOLs, but we are storytellers. We offer sincerity in a sea of filters. And that kind of connection? It never goes out of style.
✨ Final Thoughts
I may never be a KOL—and that’s okay. I’m not here to lead opinions. I’m just here to share mine.
Blogging might no longer be the "main stage" of social media, but it will always be my favorite corner of the internet—where words still matter, and stories still breathe.
To my fellow bloggers who feel overshadowed in this fast-paced digital age: keep writing. Your voice may not trend, but it will always reach the right people.
Yesterday was a tough day. An eye-opening one—literally and emotionally.
We went to Brokenshire Hospital for an ophthalmology consultation for my mama. Lately, I’ve noticed how her vision is deteriorating. She’s been half-blind for a while now, and it breaks my heart every time I see her struggle with daily things—things that once came so easily. As a daughter, seeing your mother in that state does something to your soul. I just wanted to know what I could do to help.
We woke up early. We were hoping to see the first doctor we chose, but when we arrived at the clinic, it was already closed. Apparently, they were only accommodating ten patients that day, and we were too late. That was disheartening, but I didn’t want to give up.
So, I searched for another ophthalmologist within the hospital. That’s when I found out Dr. Libre would be available in the afternoon. I quickly messaged his secretary, asking what time the clinic would open. She replied, “3PM.” Since it was still early, we decided to go home and rest.
By 2PM, we were back at the hospital. The clinic was already open when we arrived, and the secretary handed me a slip of paper where I wrote down my mother’s details. Then the wait began.
We sat in that waiting area for about two hours. Time seemed to crawl, but all I could think about was: I hope this doctor can help us.
Finally, at 5PM, we were called in. After a few minutes, the doctor examined my mother. His findings confirmed what I feared—Mama has a cataract in her left eye, and the right eye is developing one too. His recommendation? Eye laser surgery on her left eye. The cost? Around ₱60,000+, even with PhilHealth coverage.
When I heard the cost, I didn’t know how to react.
I sat there, stunned. I wanted to cry, but I held it in. I wanted to be strong for Mama.
Pity. Helplessness. Worry. Love. All these emotions hit me at once. I looked at her—my ever-strong, ever-loving mother—and I felt a deep ache in my chest. I just want her to see the world clearly again. To enjoy life, to read her Bible, to watch her favorite shows, to walk without fear.
But where do I get that amount of money?
I honestly don’t know yet. But what I do know is—I will do everything I can. Because she’s my mama. Because she deserves to see life in full color again.
I’m writing this not just to share what happened, but also as a reminder to myself and maybe to anyone reading this: never take your sight—or your loved ones—for granted.
Mama, I promise you—I'll find a way.
I’ve always thought that Valentine’s Day was only celebrated every February 14th. Turns out, I was missing out on another day of love — May 20, or what many people call 520 Day, China’s unofficial Valentine's Day.
This year, I came across posts and hashtags celebrating “Happy 520” and was curious about it. So, I did a little digging, and to my surprise, I discovered a fascinating and heartwarming story behind the numbers.
What Is 520 Day?
In Chinese, numbers often have phonetic meanings. The number “520” (五二零, wǔ èr líng) sounds very close to “I love you” (我爱你, wǒ ài nǐ) in Mandarin. It became an online slang expression for love, especially popular among younger generations and couples in China.
Over time, May 20 (5/20) became a day when lovers exchange messages, confess their feelings, and celebrate romance — much like Valentine’s Day. Thanks to the power of the internet, this trend spread across Asia and even reached international fans like me who enjoy discovering cultural gems from around the world.
Fun Fact:
> Some couples even choose to get married on 520 because of the significance behind the numbers!
> I learned about 5/20 because of my favorite fandom—OhmNanon. The way fans celebrate this day, flooding timelines with hearts, photos, edits, and loving words, made me curious. And now, I find myself joining in, appreciating how fandoms can introduce you to new cultures, languages, and even heartfelt traditions like this.
Screenshot from their Weibo Account Update: 5/20/25
Who and what is about OhmNanon?
The beloved Thai actor duo Ohm Pawat and Nanon Korapat, who gained fame for their unforgettable roles in Bad Buddy (2021), a BL series that touched the hearts of many. Their on-screen chemistry and off-screen friendship have built a global fanbase that continues to grow. Fans around the world celebrate OhmNanon not only for their talent but also for how they represent genuine connection, mutual respect, and unwavering support—perfectly fitting for the spirit of 520, a day dedicated to love and appreciation.
My Personal Take on 520
As someone who loves stories, culture, and anything that promotes love and connection, discovering 520 Day felt like finding a hidden treasure. I may be late to the party, but this is a celebration I’m happy to join — whether it’s romantic love, self-love, or love for family and friends.
Today, I decided to celebrate 520 Day for the first time. I shared red and green hearts on my socials — red for passion, green for peace — and sent messages to people I care about. It felt good. Like Valentine’s Day without the pressure — just the pure joy of love in its many forms.
What inspired me? None other than OhmNanon — a pair of Thai actors I truly admire. Even if they’re not a real-life couple, their bond, their chemistry on-screen, and their genuine friendship off-screen remind me how powerful connection can be. They’ve shown so many of us what it means to support, uplift, and care for one another — and that kind of love is worth celebrating, too.
Let’s Make 520 Day a Thing
Even if we’re not in China or don’t speak Mandarin, love is a universal language. Celebrating 520 is a beautiful way to connect with others, share kindness, and embrace the little joys that bring us closer. So, here’s a virtual hug from me to you:
Happy 520! I love you in every language, in every way.
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Want to know more about the history of 520 Day? You can check out this article:
Election Day has always held a special place in my heart—not just as a citizen fulfilling a democratic duty, but also as a daughter to two wonderful senior citizens who’ve taught me the importance of voting. For May 12 #Election2025, I was up before the sun, ready to assist my parents, and face what would become a day filled with observations, unexpected turns, and a bit of comic relief.
Early Start with the Seniors
At exactly 5:00 AM, I was already at our designated voting school with my two senior parents. Since I did my homework a day before—getting our cluster numbers, precinct numbers, and their Certified Voters List (CVL) numbers—we were able to proceed smoothly.
We were assigned to the same cluster room, so I lined them up accordingly. In no time, the election staff ushered them in. I handed over a paper with all their info for faster searching in the CVL (highly recommended, by the way!). Because my mom has trouble seeing clearly, I was asked to present an ID and got officially logged to assist her with voting.
The Marker Chronicles: A Smudgy Situation
Once we got the ballot, my mom and I sat down to shade her choices. That’s when the real challenge began. The marker provided was messy, blot-prone, and unforgiving. It felt like I was in an art class trying to color within the lines—with ink that had a mind of its own. One wrong move and it could’ve invalidated her vote!
Despite the inky ordeal, we managed to get through it. Her ballot was successfully fed into the Automated Counting Machine (ACM), the receipt came out, and we verified the entries—everything matched. She had her finger stamped and her name validated in the CVL. My dad followed with the same smooth process.
A Curious Detour: The Priority Polling Place
After my parents went home, I joined the regular voter line. While waiting, I noticed a room marked PRIORITY POLLING PLACE (PPP), intended for Seniors, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and Pregnant Women. Curious, I asked one of the staff why there was no ACM inside.
The response puzzled me.
According to them, the PPP does not have its own ACM. Voters there still use official ACM ballot forms, but won’t see their receipts or know the result of their vote right after. Instead, all the ballots would be manually transferred at the end of the day to another precinct with an ACM for processing.
This raised a red flag. Where’s the transparency? These are the very people who need assurance that their votes are counted properly. The staff simply replied, “That’s what COMELEC instructed.”
Efficient Crowd Management
Fortunately, in our precinct, the Cluster Chairman did an impressive job managing the voter traffic. By 7:00 AM, there were still a lot of seniors, so she implemented a system: 10 regular voters and 10 priority voters served alternately. It made the process more orderly and efficient. As a result, I was done voting in just an hour.
Done voting at 7:45am
My Election 2025 experience was a mix of fulfillment, observation, and reflection. While I’m grateful for a fairly smooth process and commend the local staff’s efforts, I also couldn’t help but feel uneasy about the lack of transparency in the PPP setup.
Everyone deserves a fair, clear, and secure voting experience—especially our seniors, PWDs, and expectant mothers.
Here’s hoping future elections address these gaps and bring even more improvements.
Until the next vote!
They say some digital tools come and go—but some, you never forget. For me, Skype was more than just an app. It was a lifeline, a gateway, a quiet yet steady companion during one of the most pivotal times of my life.
I first discovered Skype around 2005, not long after giving birth to my second child in February 2003. By then, I had resigned from my job, taking time off to focus on motherhood. But as every mother who’s also a dreamer knows, there comes a point when you start to seek something more—whether it’s a new purpose, a fresh opportunity, or simply a reconnection to the outside world.
That was my moment. I began exploring online job sites, sending out resumes, and trying to re-enter the workforce—not through the usual walk-ins or classified ads, but through a screen. And Skype was right there, waiting quietly in my taskbar.
I still remember that rush of adrenaline when I got my first job interview via Skype. It was for a BPO company, and the thought of doing an interview from home, in front of my computer, was both nerve-racking and exhilarating. That single Skype call was the bridge between a stay-at-home mom and a working woman reclaiming her space in the world.
From that point on, Skype became my digital stage—a place where interviews happened, team meetings were held, friendships were built, and remote work became not just possible, but powerful. It helped me grow as a freelance writer, collaborating with clients from different corners of the globe, all with a single click. There was something magical about hearing someone’s voice from another time zone, knowing that work and connection could transcend borders.
In the pre-Zoom era, Skype was king. It may not have had the sleek interfaces or virtual backgrounds of today's platforms, but it had something else: impact. For people like me—job seekers, work-from-home moms, writers, dreamers—it offered possibility. A seat at the table, even if the table was virtual.
Now, hearing that Skype is officially retiring this May 2025, I can’t help but feel a little emotional. It’s like saying goodbye to a friend who once saw you at your most unsure, your most hopeful, and your most determined. A friend who helped you rise.
So thank you, Skype. For being part of my journey. For giving me confidence in front of the screen when I had none. For opening doors I never thought existed.
And to all the moms, freelancers, and everyday warriors out there who had their “firsts” with Skype—you know exactly what I mean.
Farewell, old friend. You may be retiring, but your legacy lives on in every opportunity you helped create.
What's Next After Skype?
With Skype’s farewell, users are encouraged to transition to Microsoft Teams, the official successor. Designed for collaboration, Teams offers chat, video conferencing, file sharing, and app integrations—making it an excellent modern replacement for Skype's long-standing functionality.
I’ve been working online for years—building my career as a freelance writer, blogger, and content creator. My income doesn’t come from a fixed office job or a traditional paycheck. Instead, it comes from every article I write, every sponsored post I publish, and every little collaboration I land through hard work and consistency.
As someone who follows the law, I register my work and pay my taxes. I also cover my own health insurance, software subscriptions, website maintenance, and other tools needed to survive in the digital world. I don’t complain—I just get things done.
But now, the implementation of the Digital Services Tax Law in the Philippines adds 12% VAT on top of the services we already pay for—digital platforms, subscriptions, tools, even streaming. The same platforms that are essential for my work and livelihood.
This may sound small to some, but to us in the freelance and digital space, this is a burden. It chips away at our already slim margins. It makes every online transaction heavier. It makes survival even harder for self-employed Filipinos who are just trying to make an honest living online.
This tax feels like it came without warning, without real dialogue, and without any protection for the very people it affects the most.
Where are the benefits? Where is the support for Filipino freelancers, creators, and digital workers?
The digital workforce is no longer small. We are a growing economy within an economy. We are mothers, students, dreamers, hustlers—working behind screens, often alone, but always hoping for something better.
So before new laws are passed or taxes are imposed, I hope the government listens. I hope they see us. Understand us. Protect us.
Because we’re not avoiding responsibility—we’re asking for fairness.
The Digital Services Law in the Philippines refers to recent efforts by the government to impose value-added tax (VAT) on digital and online services, as part of its broader tax reform measures.
While there's no specific law officially named "Digital Services Law", this usually pertains to Republic Act No. 11967, also known as the Expanded VAT on Digital Services, which is part of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law and later proposals like the Digital Services Tax Bill.
Key Features:
12% VAT will be imposed on digital services offered by non-resident digital service providers (DSPs), such as:
Streaming platforms (e.g., Netflix, Spotify)
Online marketplaces (e.g., Shopee, Lazada)
Subscription tools and software (e.g., Canva, Google Workspace, Zoom)
Online advertisements and freelance platforms (e.g., Fiverr, Upwork)
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) may require foreign digital providers to register and remit VAT if they earn over P3 million annually from Filipino consumers.
It affects Filipino freelancers and digital entrepreneurs because many of the tools and platforms they rely on become more expensive, and even local digital services could be taxed more heavily.
Concerns and Criticism:
No dedicated policies for Filipino freelancers or digital workers.
Higher operational costs for online professionals and small digital businesses.
Lack of support systems, benefits, or infrastructure in exchange for increased taxation.
Seen as a burden rather than a support mechanism for the fast-growing digital economy.
The Digital Services Law (or the VAT on digital services) in the Philippines affects a wide range of individuals and sectors, especially those who rely heavily on online tools, platforms, and services.
Here's a breakdown of who are affected:
1. Freelancers and Online Professionals Writers, VAs, designers, developers, and other gig workers who rely on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Canva, Google Workspace, etc.
Their tools become more expensive due to added VAT.
Service fees may go up, reducing net income.
2. Small Digital Entrepreneurs
Those running online shops, digital marketing agencies, or content creation businesses using subscription-based tools and platforms.
Added costs may be passed on to customers or cut into their own profits.
3. Content Creators
YouTubers, TikTokers, vloggers, bloggers who use paid software for editing, design, analytics, etc.
May struggle with maintaining content quality due to budget constraints.
4. General Consumers
People who subscribe to Netflix, Spotify, YouTube Premium, etc., are now paying more because these services are subject to VAT.
5. Educational Institutions and Students
Many schools and students using tools like Zoom, Google Classroom, or Canva Pro are also hit by the additional cost, especially in blended learning.
6. Startups and Tech SMEs
Digital startups often rely on international services and tools during early stages.
Added costs affect innovation and scaling.
7. Overseas Digital Service Providers
International companies now need to register with the BIR and remit VAT if they earn over P3M from Philippine consumers annually.
The Digital Services Law affects anyone who uses or sells online services and tools, with a heavier impact on freelancers, digital workers, and small entrepreneurs—many of whom have little government support despite being taxed more.
