EXCLUSIVE: realme turns off flashing billboard lights after complaints

Company says it is coordinating with ad partners to prevent a repeat.

realme Philippines has turned off the flashing lights on its realme 16T billboard along Quezon City’s Katipunan-Libis Flyover following complaints that the bright, blinking display could pose safety risks to motorists.

In an email to radar on October 30, the company confirmed that the flashing lights had already been disabled after concerns were raised about the advertisement.

“We take public safety seriously and are coordinating with our advertising partners to help ensure that this does not happen again,” realme Philippines said.

The company also thanked radar for bringing the concern to its attention and giving it an opportunity to address the issue.

The billboard drew criticism after a video showing its blinking lights circulated on social media. A Threads user questioned the advertisement’s approval, saying the bright flashes were uncomfortable to look at, particularly while driving.