BEYOND THE HORIZON...

Happy New Year!!!

2011-12-28T22:27:00.000-08:00

I'll be spending New Year (again) here in Manila. Happy New Year to Everyone! Cheers!!!

X Factor USA 2011: Josh Krajcik for the Win!

2011-12-22T00:02:00.000-08:00

Since Drew is no longer in the competition, I want Josh Krajcik to bring home the $5 million! Watch him perform during the finale night:

Ok. If America will not vote for Josh, please give it Chris Rene. A huge, big NO to Melanie Amaro!

Say NO! to Melanie Amaro

2011-12-21T02:26:00.000-08:00

I never liked her and I'm actually surprised she's still in. And she just turned everyone off with this interview. I'd be very happy if Josh or Chris will win. There's no way someone like Melanie Amaro will win the X Factor!

What's the Best External Hard Drive?

2011-12-06T21:26:00.000-08:00

I’m planning to get an external hard drive. This is after my laptop crashed twice, and losing important files which I call precious photos. I started saving my photos in CDs since then. I have a stack of CD in my room and I want their contents to be transferred to a single, handy storage.

I was at the mall looking for external hard drives today and I couldn’t decide which one to get. At around 4000-5000 pesos with a 500GB storage capacity, I am choosing between the following brands:

GoFlex
Buffalo
Hitachi
Life Studio
Western Digital

Me thinks the best one is Buffalo, but I haven’t decided on that yet. Anyone using an external hard drive? Which one would you recommend?

1 Year and 7 Months Later, I Finally Got My SSS ID Card

2011-12-05T07:21:00.000-08:00

I just received my SSS ID card early this morning. It arrived, or I mean I arrived at the Philippine Postal Office in Quezon City at around 7AM because I had to catch the karteros before they leave to deliver mails. Two hours later, I was already holding my SSS ID card - finally, after almost two years of waiting.

I checked the envelope and it looks like they started releasing the cards a year and a half after my application. This must be for all those who applied in 2010 (I guess?). They attempted to deliver my card in my old address last October 14, 17 and 18. Of course, I was not there to receive it.

Yes, I actually read the enclosed letter and it sounds promising:

"Your Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) Card has a micro chip that securely stores your personal information and pertinent SSS data. We are also pleased to inform you that your UMID Card can also be used to transact with other government agencies such as the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), Pag-IBIG Fund and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC)."

Anyway, the first thing I checked was the information printed on the card. I could remember very clearly that I chose the option NOT to print my birth date on it. Obviously, no one checked the application form that I filled-out because my birth date is on the card. And had I known that they will also print my address on it, I would have used my home address instead.

I don't live in Quezon City anymore.

Drew is Out!

2011-12-01T19:06:00.000-08:00

Ok. So I'm done watching X-Factor USA this season.

I still can't believe that my favorite Drew is already out of the competition. There's no more reason to watch, but I do hope Josh Krajcik will win it all! On a lighter note, I am glad that Astro has been sent home too!

Can't wait for X-Factor 2012!

They Use to Visit my Blog

2011-11-27T08:07:00.000-08:00

I've been blogging since 2005 (skip that if you've already read about it here, many times). Yes, it started with Friendster - did you also try blogging with them? LOL.

Two years later, I discovered Blogspot/Blogger. And so this blog was born.

That time, I didn't know anything about the blogosphere yet, terms like "x-links" were all jargon to me. But within weeks, I started adding people in my side bar - check it out, the very long list is still there.

I became a regular visitor to these blogs, leaving comments on any topic that I find interesting. In return, they've visited and commented on my blog too. The exchanged of visits and comments went on for about two years. After that, only a few remained. Perhaps, everyone has got a good number of followers already, so we they don't need to blog hop anymore.

This post is dedicated to all those who have been here before, and vanished...

Of course, Honney, Aajao, Dong Ho, Ronnie, Reyn, Reyna Elena, Doc Ced and Pusa are excluded as I know you still visit my blog once in a while (after all these years)! Hehe.

If we have been visiting each other's site before, check your name/URL below:

1. Vince of vinceleste.com - One of the first comments here came from him. Still very active at blogging.
2. IvanHarry of angloloniyo.blogspot.com - Ang dakilang Lolo. His last post is dated June 10, 2011.
3. Eilanna of eilanna.blogspot.com - Also one of the first to leave a comment in my humble blog. Last post: June 25, 2010.
4. Footiam of steptpg.blogspot.com -He use to visit my photoblog regularly. He's still blogging!
5. Dorkzter of dexdex.blogspot.com - One of my first readers. He stopped blogging after January 30, 2009.

6. Abaniko of abaniko.blogspot.com - He bid farewell to his blog in January 29, 2010.
7. Abou of abouben.blogspot.com - Active pa rin ang blog.
8. dakilangbayani.blogspot.com - What happened to his site?
9. Prily of www.prily.blogspot.com - Last update: April 14, 2010
10. Jep of jepjep.i.ph - No more posts after May 28, 2009.

11. kingdaddyrich.blogdrive.com - His page has been moved somewhere.
12. www.krisjasper.com - His page is also already down.
13. Eric of wanderingcommuter.blogspot.com - Still an active blogger.
14. Acey of aceychan.blogspot.com - Her blog is still regularly updated.
15. Undecided21 of i-photograph.blogspot.com - Hindi na rin daw mahanap ni Blogger.

16. Arjay of roellejohn.blogspot.com - He closed his blog after a year?
17. Bebsims of bebsisms.blogspot.com, formerly bebsisms.wordpress.com - Direktor na ng mga Indie Films. Congrats!
18. Chelle - She use to own mybabychanelle.blogspot.com
19. Compass of compasstoday.blogspot.com - He's still blogging, I guess.
20. Chres of chressy.blogspot.com - She stopped posting 3 years ago.

21. Deliciosa of www.crazydeliciousfoods.com - Now a food blogger.
22. Did You Know of didyouknow.blogsome.com - Last post: January 23, 2010
23. R-yo of rsandarino.com, formerly rsandarino.blogspot.com - The Islander in the City.
24. everyadam of k2modify.blogspot.com - Looks like his blog turned in to a magazine.
25. Iggy of www.vernongo.com - Glad to see he's still actively blogging.

26. Janus of janus3185.com - His site is already down.
27. Lalaine of lalaine.gameops.net -Her blog is now exclusive for invited readers only.
28. Makoy of music.makoyskie.com - Still blogging.
29. Malditang Pinay of www.maldita12.blogspot.com - Her last entry is dated January 15, 2009.
30. Normand of www.normandb.com - His last post is, dateless.

31. Portia of www.portiaspeaking.blogspot.com - She hasn't posted anything after January 2008.
32. richard24 of janmania.blogspot.com - Is he back or not?
33. Rio of riotooth.blogspot.com - Also now exclusive to invited readers.
34. Ruthi of www.ruthinian.com - Still at it!
35. thesocialcritic of kritiksosyal.blogspot.com - See number 33.

36. Zeus of rudolfzeus.blogspot.com - He last posted in February 15, 2011.
37. Yoshke of www.yoshke.com - He's now got a very busy site.
38. enrico of enricodl.blogspot.com - He also stopped blogging in 2009.
39. Looking for the source of looking-for-the-source.blogspot.com - No more posts after March 2010.
40. Dakilang Islander of dakilangbayani.blogspot.com - See number 26.

41. The Scud of scudinreallife.blogspot.com - He bid goodbye to blogosphere in May 6, 2010.
42. Alkapon of alkapon78.blogspot.com - Last post: March 29, 2011.
43. Onatdonuts of onatdonuts.blogspot.com -See number 26.
44. Ice of sedfre21.blogspot.com - Hiatus mode?
45. Moonsparks of moonsparks.wordpress.com - Last post: July 4, 2011.

And looks like the following are in Hiatus mode too:

46. Neil of onesixthsense.blogspot.com
47. Olan of www.olanology.com

I'm glad to still see updates from these blogs:

48. Lucas of roneilberania.blogspot.com - His writing skills is absolutely... flawless!
49. Chyng of www.chyngreyes.com - The traveler of the year award goes to you!
50. Duke of qrs-complex.blogspot.com - 7 blogging years and counting!!!
51. Fern of tazferian.blogspot.com - Updated.
52. RJ of chook-mindersquill.blogspot.com - Still blogging from... Australia.

53. Blogolag of www.blogalag.com/blog - Now a food blogger?
53. Chuva of chuvachienes.com - Magazine!
54. Jake of jakedeasis.blogspot.com - He use to give me hairstyle tips.
55. Dacordyte of dacrocyte.blogspot.com - Still a very busy blogger.
56. Malen of mynosebleed.com - Nonstop nose-bleeding.

57. Ambo of pinoyambisyoso.com - Must be the most successful blogger I know!

The list goes on... Na-miss ko bigla ang mga "x-links" days.

To everyone, thank you so much for having been part of my blogging life. Apologies to those whose blog I forgot to include on the list. Many more blogging years for us all! Cheers!!!

Ain't Watching X-Factor USA Until Astro is OUT!

2011-11-26T05:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe the next Kanye is still in the show. He should have been sent home two weeks ago.

I am still rooting for Josh Krajcik and Drew - with the latter as my winner! Watch:

I love the debate between Simon and L.A. Reid at the end! LOL

Panabenga 2012 Shedule

2011-11-24T06:40:00.000-08:00

I didn't make it last February, so I am quite excited to be in Baguio this 2012 for the Panagbenga Flower Festival (note: it's PAnagbenga not PInagbenga). I was a Baguio resident for 8 years, so I have always been in attendance in the past.

My favorite part is when Session road is closed for at least a week (imagine outdoor dining, street foods, souvenir shops, street partying, etc. etc.!) If you love all of these, make sure to be there on February 27- March 4, 2012.

The 2012 Panagbenga Baguio Flower Festival Schedule:

Panagbenga 2012 Launch and Concert     November 14, 2011

Panagbenga Opening Parade                    February 1, 2012

Market Encounter                                        February 1- March 4, 2012

Let a Thousand Flower Bloom                    February 11, 2012

Handog ng Panagbenga sa Baguio           February 12, 2012

Fluvial Float Parade                                   February 12, 2012

Chinese Spring Festival                             February 21, 2012

Grand Street Dancing Parade                   February 25, 2012

Grand Float Parade                                   February 26, 2012

Session Road in Bloom                             February 27- March 4, 2012

Pony Boy's Day                                         March 2, 2012

Panagbenga Closing Ceremonies             March 4
and Grand Fireworks Display

End Impunity: NUJP's Countdown to Ampatuan Massacre's Second Anniversary

2011-11-20T00:20:00.000-08:00

Two years and still no justice: A call to bloggers, Twitter users and social media activists

by End Impunity: NUJP's Countdown to Ampatuan Massacre's Second Anniversary

On November 21, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, in cooperation with other media groups, is launching a Blog Action Day in connection with our commemoration of the second anniversary of the November 23, 2009 Ampatuan massacre and the first International Day to End Impunity.

As today, only two Ampatuans have been arraigned. Only 93 of the 196 accused have been arrested. Prosecution and defense lawyers have listed 300 and 320 witnesses, respectively, which, according to Senator Joker Arroyo, a veteran human rights lawyer and courtroom litigator, may take 200 years to present.

Meanwhile, the families of the 58 victims continue to suffer from the loss of their loved ones, most of whom were family breadwinners. Some of the children continue to innocently wait in vain for their murdered parents to come home.

On this day, we would like to invite all of you to use the power of communication and the Internet to speak out for justice and against the continued impunity with which those who wish to suppress freedom of expression impose the ultimate censorship – death – and how the apathy and inaction of government has made this so.

Let this be the start of a meaningful partnership as we forge onward together to realize the full expression of our rights and freedoms as communicators and as citizens of our country.

Below are some links that provide background information on the Ampatuan massacre and current status of the 57 counts of murder filed against the 196 accused:

“End Impunity: NUJP’s countdown to the Ampatuan Massacre’s second Anniversary” on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/End-Impunity-NUJPs-Countdown-to-Ampatuan-Massacres-Second-Anniversary/199834376758733)

NUJP (@nujp) on Twitter (http://twitter.com/nujp)

NUJP on Tumblr which features artworks of children of the victims of the massacre and other media killings. These artworks express how they are coping with the death of their slain parents (http://nujp.tumblr.com/).

Let’s do our share in not forgetting the fallen victims of the Ampatuan Massacre.

References:

Rowena C. Paraan

Secretary General
0910.495.0095

Nestor Burgos
Chairperson
0917.725.6333

Excellent Analysis of the recent Pacquiao-Marquez Fight!

2011-11-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

Was Juan Manuel Marquez robbed? Here's a very interesting analysis from Bryan Armen Graham of Sports Illustrated:

It was close.

That much everyone can agree on.

Manny Pacquiao beat back an improbable, heroic effort from an aging champion to retain his WBO welterweight championship on Saturday at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, eking out a majority decision over the magnificent Juan Manuel Marquez in a fight that was just as close as their previous two ring wars. In doing so, he narrowly avoided a seismic upset.

One ringside judge scored it 114-114, with the other two giving it to Pacquiao at 115-113 and 116-114. SI.com had it 114-114.

Call it a lot of things, but don't call it a robbery.

A heavily pro-Marquez crowd rained boos on the floor after Michael Buffer's announcement of the outcome, hurling bottles and cans toward the ring -- a far more vehement reaction than Floyd Mayweather experienced after his ungentlemanly knockout of Victor Ortiz in the same room just two months ago.

But the outcry was not commensurate to the injustice.

Yes, most of the media at ringside scored it a draw or a narrow victory for Marquez. But most of the rounds were very close. How close? Not once after the sixth did all three judges score a single round the same way.

Fact is, Saturday's fight could have gone either way. There have been far more egregious iniquities in boxing -- this year alone.

Marquez (53-6-1, 39 KOs), a 7-to-1 underdog who'd appeared vastly out of his depth in his only previous fight above lightweight, looked better than anyone expected from the opening bell, staying away from Pacquiao's power in the early rounds and peppering him with well-timed counterpunches. The Filipino champion had trouble getting inside and landing shots, finding his hyperkinetic flurries thwarted regardless of his tack or pace. Marquez even managed to rock Pacquiao several times, most notably by gigantic right hands in the fourth, fifth and seventh.

During those the middle rounds Pacquiao was as apprehensive as he's looked in years, wary of the counters, as confounded by the Marquez riddle as he was when they met at featherweight in 2004 and super featherweight in '08. (They fought Saturday at a catchweight of 144, or 14 pounds above their most recent fight.) He was doing enough to bank a few rounds and keep the Mexican challenger from running out too far ahead, but it was clear the more disciplined Marquez was in control. After nine rounds, the fight was there for Marquez to take.

And then he took his foot off the gas.

So you can say what you want about Saturday's result, but Marquez can only blame himself. All three judges scored two of the last three rounds for Pacquiao -- and SI.com gave him all three.
Pacquiao (54-3-2, 38 KOs) showed great heart, and an even greater chin, to absorb Marquez's best shots and keep moving forward through the first three-quarters for the fight. Then as the reality of his 38 years became manifest -- as the Mexican's crisp, exquisite combinations began to lose their bite -- it was the 32-year-old Pacquiao's superior finishing kick that made the difference.

"The fight was there for there for Marquez," Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach said. "But he chose to stay in that counterpunching mode and not come forward, and if I'm going to give a close round to someone I'm going to give it to the aggressor."

Throughout the buildup to Saturday's fight, Pacquiao had talked endlessly about the desire for a definitive conclusion to a trilogy that's now spanned 36 rounds over seven years and three weight classes. This was not that.

Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum was first to float the idea of a fourth installment for May, a reality even Roach grudgingly agreed with.

"It's a fight I kind of don't want to do again, but I think we have to," Roach said. "He's given us problems three times now and he's very good at what he does. He deserves a rematch."

For now, it appears the dream of a megafight between Pacquiao and Mayweather is on hold. If Pacquiao had this much trouble with Marquez's counterpunching, how could he expect to fare against a guy who's almost identical stylistically, only bigger and faster and far closer to his prime?

"Commercially speaking it will be huge fight," Marquez said through an interpreter. "But boxing is about styles, and the style of Mayweather will get very complicated for Pacquiao."

The workmanlike Marquez will never run for president. He'll never star in an action movie or cut a gold record or make Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people. He will never have his own branded hand sanitizer or cologne like Pacquiao (both of which were available Saturday at the merch stand, for $5 and $50, respectively).

But he will always have Pacquiao's number, the Ken Norton to Manny's Ali.

"I have to accept that it's not too easy to fight Marquez," Pacquiao said. "He's always backing off, he's waiting for me to create action. It's not easy."

Source: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/bryan_armen_graham/11/13/pacquiao.marquez/index.html#ixzz1dePE4h7K

Someone from Beverly Hills, California is frequenting my new blog

2011-11-07T10:46:00.000-08:00

I’ve been getting lots of clicks from this visitor since last month. S/he visits my new blog at least five times a week, and when s/he does, s/he clicks on the links leading to my other posts. I don’t know if s/he actually reads them as s/he seem to open at least 20 entries in one minute! Strange. Is s/he a spammer? If yes, why isn’t s/he leaving spam comments?

Regretfully, I couldn’t tell his/her identity. The only think I know, as per Feedjit, is that s/he uses Internet Explorer and that s/he is located in Beverly Hills , California , U.S. of A!

Ang speech ni Ramona

2011-11-06T11:20:00.000-08:00

Natawa talaga ako sa video ni Ramona. Peyk na peyk. Hindi ko alam kung maawa ako sa kanya o maiinis. Sana hindi na lang siya nagsalita at may pa-video video pa siyang nalalaman. May scene na nagpupunas siya ng kung ano sa mata, yun pala kunyari nagpapahid ng luha pero wala namang tears. Yung point na dapat takot na takot siya at kunyari na-shock, kumunot lang ng konti ang kanyang noo. Ano yun? Parang audition video ito para sa isang drama/thriller movie na ibabasura lang alter 5 seconds kasi hindi kakikitaan ng acting talent. Sana nag-enrol muna siya sa isang acting school.

See it for yourself:

X Factor USA 2011: Drew Ryniewicz for the win!

2011-10-26T05:50:00.000-07:00

It's quite early to tell, but no, Drew Ryniewicz has it all. She could win X Factor USA 2011!

And it was such a relief that Simone and Tiah are finally out. Next person I want to see going home: All the groups and the Crow kid.

X Factor USA 2011: Tora Woloshin is Out???

2011-10-19T02:04:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Simon Cowell did not pick her??? Tiah over Tora, seriously???

The official Top 17 list. In bold and italic letters are my favorites:

GIRLS:

Drew Ryniewicz
Rachel Crow
Simone Battle
Tiah Tolliver
Melanie Amaro (last minute inclusion)

BOYS:

Brian "Astro" Bradley
Chris Rene
Marcus Canty
Phillip Lomax

OVER-30s:

Dexter Haygood
Josh Krajcik
LeRoy Bell
Stacy Francis

GROUPS:

Brewer Boys
InTENsity
Lakoda Rayne
Stereo Hogzz

Ryan Bang Should Leave Showtime!

2011-10-08T04:21:00.000-07:00

The people have spoken. They don't like to see Ryan Bang in the show anymore, time to go...

To everyone's surprise, Dimples Romana gave up her seat for Ryan Bang!What???

Watch the video:

I think the show broke its own rules. They're suppose to give viewers the power to evict a judge, they chose to evict Ryan Bang this time. While Dimples' action is highly commendable, giving up her seat for another judge, regardless of the reason, is just not right. They never mentioned in the show that an exemption like this can be made anytime.

Video credits: www.dailymotion.com

UPDATE: Kudos to Showtime for keeping up with their eviction rules; they did not bring Ryan back. On with the show...

X Factor USA 2011: My Early Bets

2011-10-05T06:46:00.000-07:00

I love The X Factor. Being an American Idol fan, I never expected to be hooked with the show. There were huge talents that we saw in the first two weeks of audition and I am rooting for the following this early on:

1. Tora Woloshin - My winner for now. She's got it all! Watch the video to find out.

2. Chris Rene - I just hope he won't go back to using drugs. He reminds me of Eminem.

3. Jazzlyn Little - The awkwardness made her even more lovable.

4. Josh Krajcik - The surprise of this year's competition.

5. Drew Ryniewicz - Her version of Justin Beiber's song is better than that of, Justin Beiber!

6. Marcus Canty

Update: All of the six guys on my list made it to the Top 32! :)

Boracay, for the First Timer

2011-09-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

I should have posted this last month. I just thought Boracay is an overused topic; hence, I was not excited to blog about it. And then I realized, why not write about Boracay from a first timers perspective?

Last August, my friend, Joi, bought plane tickets for us without my knowledge. It was her birthday gift to me (sweet!). I didn’t know we were Boracay-bound at least two weeks before our flight. The weather was not good when we arrived. It was actually raining the next day when we woke up, but we enjoyed our stay nonetheless. Here are some of the things that I will remember about Boracay:

1. Boracay is the name. B-O-R-A-C-A-Y. Don’t you dare remove the last three letters. It doesn’t sound right unless you’re talking about Bora Bora, a world-famous island beach somewhere in the Pacific Ocean. Note that for some foreigners, Bora Bora is better than Boracay so stop promoting what’s not ours by saying “Borahhh” with a fake accept. Not cool!

2. White sand beach, indeed. No questions asked.

3. Crytal clear waters; I enjoyed it the most. I thought it’s gonna change when it rains. It doesn’t.

4. Some bars are closed as early as 1AM. Boracay was unusually crowded last August, but I was surprised that the bars were getting emptied by 3AM. I would have been seen dancing until sunrise. Perhaps the scene is different during peak seasons.

I highly recommend Paraw and Epic!

5. People in Puerto Galera are friendlier.

6. If you’ve got the money, get a hotel room at Station 1. For the budget-conscious, go to Station 3. To be safe, stay in Station 2, it’s where everything happens anyway.

7. No sleeping on the beach. And strictly no sex on the beach!

8. It’s cliché to climb up that grotto on the rock and take pictures.

Boracay is a paradise - that is true 20 years ago. Over the years, it has become heavily commercialized and sadly, it looks like there's no stopping them ~~politicians~~ from destroying its beauty. So expect Boracay to self-destruct in 10 years. By then, the world's attention will be on our neighbors whose natural tourist's attractions are well-preserved - Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia. Which means, the best time to go to Boracay is now, while it is still considered beautiful.

UP Pep Squad - 2011 UAAP Cheerdance Competition

2011-09-17T06:19:00.001-07:00

You gave us one hell of a show. CONGRATULATIONS!

Wi-Tribe or Globe Tattoo?

2011-08-21T00:29:00.000-07:00

I am planning to get either a Globe Tattoo or Wi-Tribe modem, but I am not quite sure if they would work in my place. Anyone using any of these broadband in Pasig, specifically Kapitolyo area? I am not expecting for a very fast internet connection as I know all broadband in the Philippines are slow. I just want to be able to at least open and post on my blogs, chat on Facebook, YM and watch YouTube videos at anytime of the day. Kapiltolyo Pasig, anyone?

How to Switch Back to the Old Facebook Chat

2011-08-02T03:14:00.000-07:00

So you logged in to Facebook, saw a pop-up window, clicked on it and voila, your Facebook chat box has turned to a sidebar. Most Facebook users are not liking it. But you can get your old chat box back by simply following these two simple steps (only works for Mozilla):

1. Download this addons from https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/greasemonkey/
2. Install userscripts from http://userscripts.org/scripts/show/107159

Once installed, log out then log back in to your Facebook account. You can complete this in 3 minutes!

Charice's "One Day" Official Music Video is OUT!

2011-07-30T02:54:00.000-07:00

Finally, the official music video of Charice's "One Day" has been released. Enjoy!

Viral Video: Pinoy Twins Dancing

2011-07-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

found this in Yahoo the other day but I ignored it. I just got curious again when I saw it on TV Patrol. I didn't realize they were actually Pinoys. They're so cute and fun to watch.

Here are the famous twins, Justin and Jeremy Garcia dancing "Hey Ya!":

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 2 Winner

2011-06-26T04:59:00.000-07:00

If Jovit Balvidino was the clear front runner during the first season of Pilipinas Got Talent, there seem to be no act this season that could match his popularity. I thought it's gonna be a close fight between Buildex Pagales and Marcelito Pomoy, but based from all the performances that we saw during the grand finals last night, there are at least 5 other strong contenders for the top spot.

Last year, I made a list and declared Jovit as my winner. I was right.

Here's my wild prediction for this year. My formula is the same: talent+popularity+sympathy votes+Pinoy mentality = the Winner!

1. Marcelito Pomoy - If we pick a winner based from the number of views of the contestant's YouTube video, Marcelito will surely be bringing home that huge check. Last night, he showed that he can sing both as a male and, err, female.

2. NeilBeth - Second place? Just a wild guess. They look amazing on stage. I thought I was watching So You Think You Can Dance!

3. Rico the Magician - He's got a huge number of supporters. I won't be surprised if he'll end up winning it all tonight.

4. Buildex Pagales - Now known as Bruno Earth (did you know that Bruno Earth was trending in Twitter worldwide last night?). I agree with Mr. FMG when he said that Buildex is the Jovit Baldivino of this season when comes to the number of supporters. Buildex earns the votes of his mostly screaming girls fans.

5. Angel Calalas - She was so good during the semi-finals, better than last night. She is nevertheless talented and very beautiful. And she seem to be really humble. I expect to see her in the top 5.

6. Happy Feet - My sentimental favorite. Their story is so touching and so genuine. I hope they'd place high. For guys to dance like that even without a professional training at tap dancing, they define raw talent.

7. Jem - Is he the one from Cebu? If the whole of Cebu is voting for him, then he might give Marcelito a ran for his money.

8. Freestylers - They are good dancers but fans seem to prefer acts of smaller groups. That was a strong act they showed us last night, but text votes? Not a very strong contender.

9. Madrigal Siblings - Ok. I didn't like them at first but their performance last night is phenomenal. But the fact that voters chose the magician over them during the semis, I don't think they'd place higher than Rico tonight.

10. John - The pride of Pangasinan. No further comment.

11. DJP - So pretty and so talented. ABS-CBN will surely keep them as talents.

12.Skeights - Nothing special.

13th and 14th place: B4 and Filogram - The problem is that we always get to see two representatives from Baguio every season. The Baguio votes are therefore divided, so I don't think these guys will bring home that big check up to the City of Pines.

Anxiously waiting for the results. Good luck to the 14 finalists!

Update: Freestylers is a surprise! What happened to NeilBeth and Mang Rico? Anyway, I'm so glad Marcelito won, I got it right again this time. But I was even more excited to learn that Happy Feet placed second! Congratulations!!!

Official Results:

Pilipinas Got Talent Season 2 Grand Champion: MARCELITO
Second Place: HAPPY FEET
Third Place: FREESTYLERS

Internet to sawa

2011-06-17T02:50:00.000-07:00

I just saw this ad when I logged in to my Yahoo mail today. It's the newest service from PLDT, called Internet To Sawa, with a speed of up to 5mbps. Anyone who has tried this already? I was a BayanTel subscriber before and I never had any problem with their internet service.

Wi-Fi from my phone!

2011-06-10T10:06:00.000-07:00

I was disconnected from the world wide web for almost a week. The WiFi at my place just decided to quit working, I could only go online through my phone. And Globe isn't charging me cheap; it's eating up my prepaid credit! Plus, I really am not into mobile surfing. I can't surf and blog like I do on my pc.

I didn't know I could use my phone as a modem! LOL. I learned about this through my officemate who gave me the instructions. I just downloaded Barnacle WiFi Thether last night. With this application, my phone emits WiFi signals and I could connect my laptop to it no sweat! Visit the http://szym.net/barnacle/ for the free download or if your phone's got Android OS, just search and download it from Android market.

Guess which Philippine lake made it as one of the World's most beautiful?!

2011-06-10T00:33:00.000-07:00

Budgettravel.com included the Taal Lake in their "12 Most Beautiful Lakes in the World" list. Now that's good news, after the recent fish kill in the area which made headlines last week.

-Source-

PHILIPPINES
Taal Lake
This dangerous beauty, situated just 37.28 miles south of Manila, has two distinct claims to fame: It is the deepest lake in the Philippines, with a depth of 564 feet. It is also home to one of the world's smallest but most active volcanoes, the Taal Volcano, which sits within its waters on the island of Luzon. The lake itself was formed when a larger volcanic crater here collapsed; now seismologists spend a lot of time monitoring this spot for tremors, and sending out frequent eruption warnings through the country's Department of Tourism. Plenty of tour groups offer trips to the natural wonder—in spite of the fact that it has been declared a permanent danger zone. A safer way to see the volcano is by taking a drive along the Tagaytay-Taal ridge in nearby Tagaytay City.
Nearby: Adjacent Tagaytay City offers some well-priced accommodations, in addition to the best views of the lake.

Glad to see a Philippine tourist spot in their list, for the first time. For one, I never read any recent article from a foreign travel magazine which features Boracay as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. If not because of the massive online and text voting (which Filipinos are known for), I would have never heard of the underground cave in Palawan. So the inclusion of the Taal Lake to this list is quite a surprise.

Say NO to Mining in Palawan

2011-06-09T01:54:00.000-07:00

Let your voice be heard. Sign-up now!

Please visit www.no2mininginpalawan.com to sign-up.

As of this writing, 1,220,053 signatures have been submitted! Let's show the local government of Palawan, the politicians, and these huge mining industries, that we are not letting them continue destroying our environment.

Taytay Falls Once More

2011-06-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

I got to see Taytay falls January of last year (click here for the story), so when I learned about Dalitiwan Resort, also in Majayjay, I said yes to my friend's invitation to go there last weekend.

We left Manila at around 4PM. It's quite late already, and the heavy traffic from Calamba to Los Banos is not a surprise. We were in Sta. Cruz at around 7:30PM. For 350 pesos, we hired a tricycle to bring us to Dalitiwan Resort. It was raining and my pants were already soaked wet when we arrived at the resort more than an hour later. I got so tired that I fell asleep immediately after dinner.

The next morning, we tested the cold waters running along the resort.

We decided to visit Taytay Falls, it's still about 20 minutes away.

en route to the falls

The water here is (still) twice as cold!

Samsung Galaxy 5

2011-06-03T20:42:00.000-07:00

I got my Samsung Galaxy 5 last December. It's quite cheap compared to most smart phones in the market. But I love it! It has everything I need.

Except for one thing: it gets detected every time I passed by the sensors of the stores where I shop. It's quite embarrassing especially when I'm alone. I first experienced it when I entered this shop in Megamall with my phone in my pocket. I was surprised when the alarm went off. I wasn't carrying anything, not a shopping bag, and when the guard discovered I had this phone, he realized it must be it. To check, I went in and out of the store, with and without my phone at hand, and he's right! Without the phone - no alarms!

Since then, I would hold my phone and raise my hands up when I enter a store. It's funny and still embarrassing to hear the alarm going off if I don't get to raise my hands high enough for my phone not to be detected.

Anyone experienced the same???

The Transient House in Bokawkan

2011-05-26T20:56:00.000-07:00

Staying in a transient house is a better option when going to Baguio in groups. It's cheaper and you can even get discounts especially for groups of 10 or more. You'll have the freedom to do things which you aren't allowed to do if you stay in a hotel.

From our last team building in Baguio, we stayed at the Mountain Side Inn along Bokawkan road. It's just a 10-minute taxi or jeepney ride away from Burnham park.

Terrace at the back.

View from the terrace.

At night.

Us, at the hallway.

The front yard, along Bokawkan road. The lights at the background are from Las Marias and Kinnoboyan country bars.

Rooms

For inquiries, contact:
Mountain Side Inn
51 Bokawkan Road, Baguio City
09209087180

I forgot to bring my camera at that time, these shots aren't mine. Thanks to my officemates Joi, Sarah and Adrian for the photos.

Transient Houses in Baguio

2011-05-26T04:17:00.000-07:00

Since my officemates found out that I was a Baguio boy, I instantly became a "tour guide" everytime they plan to visit the City of Pines. They would ask me for the best hotels, transient houses, restaurants and bars. That has been the case for over 4 years now. I am happy to have been able to direct them to the best places in Baguio.

Here, I made a list of the transient houses in Baguio. I haven't been to all of these houses, so I may appear biased on some of my notes. Nonetheless, I have provided a link to their websites, if there's any, and contact numbers.

Miles Home
88 Gibraltar Road
(074) 424-2014; 09173645288
www.mileshome-baguio.com

My friends just stayed here this summer, and I didn't hear any negative comments from them so far. Miles Home is just a few steps away from the Mine's View park. Their rooms are very affordable, although from the outside, the house already looks old. Give them a call or visit their website for more information.

North Pine Transient House
117 Scout Barrio, Baguio City
www.baguioresthouses.multiply.com

They seem to have a number of apartments for rent/transient but I have never been to any of those. Check their page at baguioresthouses.multiply.com. Nonetheless, Scout Barrio is a good location as it is just beside Camp John Hay. Expect to see lots of pine trees in this area. Scout Barrio is about 15-20 minutes away from Session Road and is accessible by jeepney and taxi.

Baguio Transient House
214 Mission Rd.
Crystal Cave, Baguio City

www.baguiotransient.com

Baguio Transient House is found in Crystal Cave which is located along Marcos Highway. It is about 15 minutes away from the Baguio central business district.

INNSISON Apartelles
Naguilian cor Dominican Rd, Baguio City
09175084500
www.innsison.com

This is a new building found near the welcome arc of Baguio at Naguilian road. You can see the steps leading to the Lourdes Grotto from here. Their rates are quite affordable, a good alternative to getting a hotel near Session road.

Atenara House
40 Navy (C.M. Recto) Road
Saint Joseph Bgy 2600
Baguio City, Philippines
63 (74) 446-9808
63 (933) 365-7352
www.atenara.com

I once lived at St. Joseph back in 2002-2003 but I never noticed this transient house. I realized, they only started in 2005. Check their website for the details. St. Joseph is located near Wright Park, Botanical Garden and Teacher's Camp.

More to follow.

If you want me to include your place, leave a comment and give us the details.

Giving credit to whom it's due

2011-05-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

My post about Mt. Clitoris has suddenly become the most viewed entry in my blog today. Most of the visitors are coming from Facebook, so I thought some guys may have shared a link of my post on their walls. But I was surprised to see visitors redirected from FHM.com.ph. I got curious so I checked:

Oops! I don't own this photo of the sexily named mountain. I'm glad to have had included the link of my source in my original post. I copied this photo from baguiomidlandcourier.com, and this photo is taken by Mr. Harley Palangchao.

I don't know Mr. Palangchao personally but I know that he's a respected photojournalist. His works are regularly being published at the Baguio Midland Courier. I look up to him as a photographer.

Blasphemy!

2011-05-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

Did the world end yesterday?

If yes, then I must be one of the evil guys since I'm still alive! See? As per Harold Camping's blasphemous predictions, all those who will be left behind will go through hell on earth for the next five months, until October 21st!

Harold Camping -Source-

Ok. So now that the doomsday didn't happen, where is Harold Camping now? Missing???

Harold Camping is "mystified" and "a little bewildered" today that the Rapture did not go as he predicted, an associate of the California preacher told ABC News.

Tom Evans, a board member of Camping's Family Radio International, said today that Camping's wife told him her husband is at their home in Oakland and has no intention to speak or issue any statement today or Monday.

Camping's wife described him as being "somewhat bewildered" and "mystified" that events did not unfold on May 21 as Camping had predicted, Evans said.... - continue reading

For humanity's sake!

2011-05-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

This is hilarious!

I just posted a new photo in my photoblog yesterday. I few hours later, I received one new comment. I thought it's from Fufu who use to leave comments there despite me not updating it regularly. It turns out to be from a fellow ~~stranger~~ blogger...

I thought it was just another spam comment. This one's different. He wants me to "for humanity's sake" visit his blog and click on the ads. Huh?!?

My friend, if you want to earn money through blogging, or Adsense, in particular, you need to work hard for it. Start publishing quality posts. Learn the basics and study how Adsense works. All the tips you need were already provided by Adsense themselves, and you simply have to thoroughly read through them and follow.

You may earn something from this trick but, no, it won't last. You can't be doing this all the time to be able to earn a cent. It's all about hard work, and no one can do it overnight.

When will I receive my SSS ID card?

2011-05-19T23:57:00.000-07:00

So, after long years of convincing myself to get an SSS ID card, I finally got the courage to go to one of their offices and bear the long excruciating hours of waiting for my turn.

That was May of last year. That's right, one year ago, but I haven't received my card yet. Where did my SSS ID card go?!?

I made an online inquiry and look what I found:

Remarks: FOR CARD PRINTING

How long would it take for them to print my card? More than a year? Ahh... I expect to receive a wood-laminated ID card in the mail.

UPDATE: After 1 year and 6 months, the ID cards have started to arrive! If you applied during the first and second quarter of 2010, you should have received your ID card already. Otherwise, you may need to claim it from the SSS main office mailing department (along East Avenue, Quezon City).

Scream 4

2011-05-18T05:59:00.000-07:00

It got me bored after 15 minutes. And the next 70 minutes is a total waste, I can't even believe I actually stayed and watch. Definitely one of the worst movies of the year; very deserving of a Razzie!

Quezon and Laguna Day Tour

2011-05-16T23:16:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing about Pahiyas Festival since I was a kid. I've seen stunning photos of their heavily decorated houses and colorful festivities. But I've never been to Quezon, so when my friends planned to join a day tour with the Pahiyas as the main itinerary, I thought I shouldn't miss it.

I don't know where my friend got her contact, but we paid Php1100 each for the fare (back and forth). Our meeting time was scheduled at 3AM at the SM Makati parking lot. There, we joined about a hundred others who were also part of the tour. We took van number 6 (out of 17). All cars left at exactly 3:30AM.

We arrived in Lucban, Quezon at around 6:30AM. We parked at the Lucban elementary school ground about less than half a kilometer away from the Lucban church. We had to walk from there.

If you go to the festival in your own car, you won't be allowed to enter the town proper. You will either walk, or hire a tricycle to bring you there. By bus, there are no buses from Manila to Lucban. You will have to take a Manila-Lucena bus trip from Cubao and get in to one of the jeepneys from Lucena to Lucban.

The Lucban church.

The church interior.

Random photos I took as we walk along the busy streets of Lucban:

I didn't get to really enjoy the festival because the town was so crowded. We left at around 2PM to visit the churches of Laguna.

Before leaving, I thought I should violate some rules...

Sorry, can't hold it!

MyBlogLog: Discontinued

2011-05-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

"MyBlogLog will no longer be in service from 24 May 2011"; that's the notice that Yahoo has been sending to its members.

I can't help but check my visitors whose photos appeared in my MyBlogLog widget:

To all of you, thanks a lot for visiting! Without MyBlogLog, I might not see your faces here again.

Adios Merci!

2011-05-04T17:52:00.000-07:00

Merceditas Gutierrez wipes away crocodile tears as the whole nation celebrates.

Goodbye Merci! You and your tribe (including the old man beside you) will never be missed!

-Source-

Friendster is deleting my account?

2011-04-27T02:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, I still have a Friendster account. But wait, by May 31, 2011, all my Friendster photos, testimonials, messages and blog posts will vanish... forever! This is part of the suppose upgrade that Friendster is doing. Nope, they won't delete our accounts. We can still login after and view our empty profiles.

My account (the second and last), was created in October 2004. The first one was made six months earlier until some internet cafe user stole my password. Well, my Friendster contains quite a number of memories. Not really the old photos (which I've actually deleted a long time ago), but I value the messages and testimonials more. Imagine reading a friend's message six years ago and someone's impression on you back then? :)

Anyway, I just moved my Friendster photos to Multiply. How to do that? Just look for the Friendster Exporter app when you login to your account. You can transfer all your photos to Multiply or Flickr.

With Facebook now dominating the social networking community, I guess, this is Friendster's first step to saying bye-bye...

Oh God, I love Carrie Underwood!

2011-04-25T18:52:00.000-07:00

I like Carrier Underwood since her Idol days. I think she's the most successful American Idol winner so far. And I love her even more after seeing this:

Awesome, great performance!

The Holy Week Effect

2011-04-21T18:41:00.001-07:00

Traffic around Metro Manila is never heavy during Holy Week. It's a phenomenon that happens once a year. Look:

Shaw Blvd. at anytime of the year:

Shaw Blvd. during Holy Week:

Road going to/from Pasig:

The same road during Holy Week:

Ortigas Center:

Ortigas Center during Holy Week:

Longganisa

2011-04-19T17:40:00.001-07:00

If there's one thing that I love about Vigan, it's their famous longganisa. My aunt use to bring us longganisa from Vigan every time she visits and it has become my official favorite ulam as a kid.

When we arrived in Vigan last Saturday, we had our breakfast at Grandpa's Inn and Restaurant:

Of course, I immediately asked for my favorite:

Yummy!!!

Thumbs up!

Simot sarap.

Vigan Longganisa are small (when cooked). They're stuffed with pork and lots of garlic. Unlike the commercialized longganisa, they're not sweet. We can only find genuine Vigan Longganisa in Vigan and Laoag, which makes me wonder, why don't they sell them around the Philippines?

***

Rediscovering Vigan and Laoag

2011-04-18T17:51:00.000-07:00

I regret not saving a copy of my entries from my new blog (which was hacked yesterday) here in Blogger. One month and 25 posts later, I have to start all over.

I'm (re)blogging about my recent trip to the north.

I am from Ilocos Sur. Yet, I have never been to the famous places in Vigan and Laoag before. You might wonder why. Not that I left and moved somewhere, I still go home at least once a month. Vigan is just quite far from our town, about 4-5 hours. Laoag, 5-6 hours. And I never really heard anything fancy about these places before, aside from their famous longganisa which I really really love.

I had fun during our trip. I learned to appreciate my province more.

The Windmills of Bangui, Ilocos Norte

More about Vigan and Laoag in my next posts.

Cheers!

Hacked

2011-04-18T04:39:00.000-07:00

My first try at getting a hosted site has been a disaster. I never thought it would be this stressful.

During my first week, the server went down and restored only about three days.

Everything went well for the past three weeks. For some reasons, I got inspired to post an entry daily. I loved my entries. I had my settings changed so that a backup is sent to my email everyday.

Today, I wake up to find out that my site has been hacked. I'm sure that's a blogger's worst nightmare. I asked for help from my host but they can't do anything either. The backups are not of any use at all. They advised me to start from scratch. I gave up.

My new site is up!

2011-03-28T01:25:00.000-07:00

A few hours after I published my post below, 3ix.com decided to bring back the contents of my new blog. I'm happy that they finally cared to restore everything back.

But I realized, I shouldn't get too excited yet! Less than an hour later, they went offline again. I guess I just officially joined the many unfortunate others who have been victims of poor web hosting services.

I'm afraid this might happen again in the future, so I decided to continue posting here until my one year with them ends. I definitely will switch to another web host next year.

Another "About Me" Meme

2011-03-27T19:20:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my new home.

It’s newly constructed so final touches are still on-going.

I wanna thank Honney for helping me with this. This site wouldn’t exist without her donations, both in cash and in kind! Hehehe. To extend my gratitude, I’m finally posting a response to her “7 things about me” tag.

Let me come up with a list like as if I never mentioned any of these things here before:

1. I am a frustrated painter. I wish I had the hands of Leonardo or Michaelangelo.

2. I love photography. Yes, I seriously want to make a career out of it someday.

3. Nature is my stress reliever. Sunrise and sunsets never cease to amaze me. I appreciate the sight of a tree amidst tall buildings in a city. I love the sound of the rain, the gustling wind, falling leaves, morning dew…

4. Emotero.

5. Man of a few words.

6. I look younger than my age.

7. Unless 3ix.com brings back the latest posts that I published in my new site, I plan not to continue blogging there anymore. How sad…

Failed Dot Com

2011-03-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

I may have to settle with Blogger.

See? My friend generously offered to pay for my own domain but our webhost seem not to like me. They’ve been having this “server restoration” process for days now and it looks like I’m the only one affected, they don’t really care.

They (3ix.com) deleted everything that I’ve posted since I started using their services and I don’t think they have plans to retrieve them back. I’m afraid of publishing more posts as they may end up getting deleted every week or so.

I don’t wanna stress myself any further, so I’m back blogging here at Blogger.

My New Blog Site

2011-03-17T00:59:00.000-07:00

My fellow blogger, office mate and friend, Honney is doing charity works and bought me a virtual estate.

Please visit me at my new home!
www.myvirtualabode.com

Baguio Panagbenga Flower Festival Schedule of Events

2011-01-24T01:12:00.000-08:00

Baguio Flower Festival 2011: February 1 to March 6

Schedule of Events:

Flower Fluvial Parade on February 13, 9AM and 6PM @ Burnham Park Lake.

Grand Street Dancing Parade on February 26, 8AM @ Session Road. (Our department back in college use to take part on this event, we won, grand slam!)

Flower Float and Marching Band Parade on February 27, 8AM @ Session Road. (This reminds me of my ROTC days)

Session Road in Bloom from February 28 to March 6. (The whole Session Road will be closed for motorists for a week! Booths, outdoor dining, food, food, food!)

Philippine International Arts Festival 2011 from February 20 to 28 @ the Burnham Park Rose Garden.

Cheers!!!

Web Hosting

2011-01-22T21:20:00.000-08:00

I have been planning to buy myself a virtual estate since I started blogging two years ago. The number of web hosting providers is overwhelming that I know I have to rely much on what other users have to say.

The reviews provided by website hosting experts are very helpful for someone like me who's in the lookout for the best. They have a list of the best web hosts that are divided in to different categories, depending on what one is looking for, basically. You can check which one got their nod for awards like Best Budget Hosting, Best Blog Hosting or the Best Web Hosts of 2011, to name a few. They have been reviewed and rated by web hosting geeks themselves who are very keen at determining which web host is really offering the best.

1.11.11

2011-01-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

One. Eleven. Eleven.

Sinusulat ko to para lang may ma-post :) I was supposed to make a list of 11 things to do this 2011 but I couldn't even come up with 5. I am hoping that something great will come to me on this day. If I am right, 1.11.11 will never happen again, not in the next one hundred years!? Definitely not in this lifetime.

***

All I want for 2011 is...

2010-12-27T10:52:00.000-08:00

YOU!

Hehe. Kidding aside, I look forward to a brighter year. With all the troubles that I've been through, 2010 was not a good year for me. I have nevertheless learned a lot of lessons which make me believe that everything just happened for a reason - blessings in disguise. I pray for more blessings to come this 2011, at work and at home, and I wish the same thing for my friends and family.

I'm positive that God has something great in store for me next year! He's such a genius to have prepared me really well. No more tears, no more heartaches, no more emo moments! :)

Happy New Year! Cheers!!!

***

Party Party!

2010-12-14T01:10:00.000-08:00

Am I a party goer?

Everything was just happening too fast this 2010 that I didn't notice it's almost over. I had a hard time coping with this very fast-paced year. I'm glad I spent most of my time, partying!

I ain't Mr. Gimikero. Remember this post? Well, I thank God for giving me friends who never get tired of sending me invites. I use to ignore them all. This year, everything has changed. I take comfort for the fact that my presence is somehow valued and so, I'm trying my best not to turn any invitation down. From one event to another, from Manila to Baguio to La Union - but nope, that still won't qualify me as a party goer. I'm still the same guy whose idea of a great time is spending quality time with loved ones at home.

Happy Holidays! Cheers!!!

***

The Island of Camiguin

2010-11-27T17:25:00.000-08:00

I wasn’t really fond of the idea of travelling down south. I didn’t know that Camiguin is located in Mindanao . When my friend said that she’s getting a plane ticket for our November trip to Camiguin, I just said yes without really knowing where this island is. I thought it’s in the Visayas area, even after seeing images of their tourist’s spots.

We left last Friday. Our scheduled flight at 8:30AM was delayed for 30 minutes. We arrived at the Cagayan De Oro airport at around 10:15AM. I can’t believe I just set foot in Mindanao .

While on our way to the CDO port, we can't help but jokingly ask the driver: How far is Basilan? Taga-saan po ulit mga Ampatuan? Wala naman po Abu-Sayaff dito? LOL. Apologies for our ignorance!

We arrived at the CDO port two hours later. We waited for a ferry for about 15 minutes, and finally arrived at Camiguin after about another hour. It’s almost 4PM; that completes our 7-hour travel time.

Camiguin Highland Resort is literally located in a mountain. The view from the hotel is breathtaking.

Checking in:

The pool:

First destination: The famous White Island.

The sunken cemetery:

Soda Pool:

Cold Spring:

Ruins of century old structures:

Ardent Hot Spring:

Katibawasan Falls:

Camiguin Church:

Horseback Riding:

They say, Camiguin means "come again". I had a great time and I enjoyed the trip, but I don't know if I'd ever set foot to this island again.

Next stop, the place where my heart is - Baguio!

***

Moving in

2010-11-22T20:46:00.000-08:00

I just bid Quezon City goodbye. QC has been my home for almost four years. Last week, I've moved to...

Pasig City!

The place is just 5 minutes away from work. New place, new environment, new beginning?

***

The windy city of San Fernando

2010-10-20T06:16:00.000-07:00

San Fernando, La Union is where I spent four years of my teenage life - high school life that is. Back then, I was supposed to attend high school in another catholic school in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur but my ever supportive sister advised me to try Saint Louis in San Fernando instead. (Saint Louis College - High School, was and still is, one of the best schools in the north).

Last week, my mom was admitted in one of the hospitals in San Fernando. I filed a 5-day leave at work, which means I get to spend almost a week in this place.

Nostalgia begins...

St. William's Cathedral

City Hall

San Fernando was declared a city in 1998. It was one of the cleanest and greenest municipality in the Philippines in the early 90's, next to Baguio and Puerto Princesa. If Marcos is for Ilocos Norte and Singson is for Ilocos Sur, Ortega is for La Union. The Ortega clan is probably the most loved political dynasty in this part of the country.

Forgive and Forget

2010-10-19T17:02:00.000-07:00

Forgiveness only matters if the other person knows he/she's been forgiven.

That's a moment that I've been praying to happen. The timing was perfect. It's God's will; he prepared me well. I'm glad that I've finally voiced out what I feel, to tell them what my heart has been longing to say. I'm happy that they now know that I have long forgiven them. It was liberating.

T'was like a space shuttle ride. Just let it all go...

I don't care what their intentions were. When they asked for my forgiveness, it doesn't matter if they're sincere. I am already good with the fact that they took time to get in touch with me and say sorry. I've forgiven them with all my heart - that has to wrap-up everything.

Case closed. Party! Party!

Cheers!!!

***

Did Facebook kill your blog?

2010-10-04T04:19:00.000-07:00

One blog post a month. How scarce is that? These days, that's better than no post at all.

Blogging was such a hit 3-5 years ago. Before I discovered WordPress and Blogger, there was Friendster - Friendster blog that is. At least Friendster promoted blogging. Facebook isn’t. It's killing blogs.

Talk about the latest gadgets, food, travels, love life, dates, crushes, job interview, your annoying boss, your slow internet connection - anyone’s everyday experiences. Before, you can only read these in blogs. Now, it’s all over your Facebook wall.

Are you giving up blogging too? Have you?

***

Ang Puno ng Santol

2010-09-17T23:20:00.000-07:00

I love trees. I feel bad every time I see people cutting them down.

I literally grew up with this santol tree. I'm not sure of its age but it probably is older than me. When I was a kid, we use to sell its fruits for 50 cents a piece...

The place where it stands has become one of our favorite spots when taking pictures at home. It's got a huge trunk, almost twice my body size:

Standing tall at around 40 feet:

We never had plans to cut this tree down, so I was surprise to see this last weekend, when I arrived:

Illegal logging happened at our front yard!

I don't know the exact reason why, but my father said he'll replace it with rambutan. Ain't gonna cry over spilled milk, so we made the most of what was left:

I'd forever miss that tree...

***

20 Friggin Something Has Gone So Fast

2010-09-04T01:25:00.000-07:00

I wish I could go back to those days when celebrating my birthday is something that I always look forward to. When it was just all about having fun. When you don't have to think about the things that you have done, should have done, and should be doing. No worries!

I thank God for teaching me some of life's most important lessons these past years and I am happy that I've learned my lessons early. I have always been blaming Him all along and I'm glad I finally get to understand why.

2010 didn't start well for me. But everything that I've been through is all worth it. I never enjoyed life before as I do now. I realized it's not too late for me to catch up. To do things that I thought I should have been doing way way back.

I'm not being preachy, but I know and I've finally accepted that God has better plans for me. But saying "I am 20-friggin-something years old" is not cool though!

***

Pizza Volante

2010-08-09T02:38:00.000-07:00

Over a decade ago, Baguio's cool weather and pine trees are two things that a visitor would rave about. Consider yourself lucky if you have seen Baguio's green mountains, and experienced breathing fresh air with that distinct pine tree scent. Today, everything has changed, I heard Tagaytay is a better option. Nonetheless, I still consider Baguio my second home.

Session road at night.

My favorite place in Baguio? Session road. And a walk along Session road for me is not complete without going to Pizza Volante.

This place is located right at the middle of Session road. The first floor used to be the lobby of Session cinema; the second floor was once the theater's control room. This is how the place looked like before:

The "Session" signage still exists. -source-

And this is the "theater" now:

Today: Pizza Volante beside Greenwich. -source-

What I miss the most? My all time favorite burger pizza. It's perfect with beer, but even better with (surprisingly) coffee:

The highly addictive brewed coffee. It's refillable, awesome!

And those waffles (can't find another picture) - one of the best in town.

Pasta - yummy!

The first floor.

Aside from the textured ceiling, posters of the last movies shown here serve as a reminder that this was once a movie house. Those posters were never removed behind the glass display windows. More dining tables are found at the second floor, which used to be the theater's control room. I really love how they recreated the place.

It must be the food, the ambiance, the coffee... the memories. Whatever it is, I'd always consider this place special.

***

Why you shouldn't be following everything that makes you happy

2010-08-05T19:04:00.000-07:00

I've had some counseling session with my office mate and fellow blogger, Honney today. Although we have lots of differences (and I object almost everything that she says about religion), I am keeping in mind what she shared about not following your heart.

You should not follow your heart...rather, LEAD your heart.

True. The heart is indeed the most deceitful thing. How many times did we get in trouble because of following what our heart is saying? Some things that make us happy are just wrong. Clue? It's when your heart and mind are confused. When your mind starts questioning your heart's desires - it's a signal that something must be wrong.

It's not that I wanna be right all the time but I guess, I should start leading my heart from now on.

***

Why Sachi should go to UP

2010-07-16T02:55:00.000-07:00

This is a very old story, but I can't help but RE-POST. I was still enrolled at Saint Louis University when this was published in the Young Blood section of The Philippine Daily Inquirer. I just found it again today. Thanks to the Live Journal.

Why Sachi should go to UP

By Herdy L. Yumul

DEAR Kuya Henry,

Allow me write this letter to you--a first in many years--as you exert influence on one of the most important decisions in the life of our beloved Sachi.

I have known that after a careful assessment, you have decided to send Sachi to Saint Louis University in Baguio for college. While I receive this news with utmost respect, let me air my dissent and give you my thoughts on it.

I believe that SLU is a good school but I wish Sachi could go to the University of the Philippines because there, Sachi will grow among the best and the brightest, the future movers and shakers of our country. In UP, sure to open before Sachi’s eyes are doors of opportunities that graduates of lesser schools can only dream of. But above all, in UP, Sachi would continue to be the best, the brightest and the most promising person that she is by nature.

If Sachi were just a mediocre student, I wouldn’t care. But we know that she is far from ordinary. She has the skills and the attitude typical of those who make it "big time."

Some of our relatives commented that it wouldn’t matter much where Sachi would go to college. She could go abroad and earn precious dollars, anyway. But if that is the case, we should as well let her go to a school in Timbuktu and the old American patient in San Diego she would nurse in the future would never mind.

Not infrequently, going abroad is a desperate move. It is an open acceptance of one’s failure to succeed in one’s own country. Overseas Filipino workers are not heroes all the time. Sometimes they are victims of poverty, if not of greed.

It is in this light that we admire Mommy and Daddy because they were able to raise us with success. They may have not set foot in college but their hard work, discipline and business acumen paved the way for them. They made a mark without a college diploma and without having to leave us to earn money elsewhere.

But Sachi wants to be a physician. Because entrusted in a doctor’s hands are lives of human beings, academic training is of primary consideration. Dr. Benjie Flor (Daddy’s cardiologist) knows that very well and so he went to UP for college. He also had the chance to go abroad, not to battle against time for green money, but to further his expertise. Now, Dr. Flor serves his Mother Ilocos by being a good and trusted professional. And his job pays him well.

I am both amused and saddened by the irony of it all: many parents break their bones just to send their children to Manila for better education. Not few of them do not mind if their kids go to the so-called "diploma mills" where degrees are gained without much pain. There are so many schools of that kind, many of them are in Recto. But to many parents, it really does not matter, basta mapag-aral lang sa Manila, okay na.

Here we have Sachi, admitted to the premier institution of learning in this country. And we do not send her to UP? Many Upcat passers tender parties to celebrate their victory, their having won the key to their dreams. And on the bleak side, I have also heard of some young people claim their lives upon receiving the kind of "thank you but you did not make it" letter sent by the university. And we dismiss Sachi’s chance to go to UP with such ease?

I hope to make you realize that this humble request is born neither of caprice nor of boastfulness. This is born out of ambition and concern for our beloved Sachi.

I remember very well when I was about to go to college. Almost everybody did not want me to go to Manila. But Mommy was there and I will forever be thankful to her. Together, "Inkgidem mi iti panagbasak (we just closed our eyes and went on against all odds)." In the same manner, let us transcend the present and on to the future.

Opportunities like these knock but once.

Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago once said that non-UP graduates belong to "lower life forms," like insects. While we are much aware that the lady senator is really out of her wits most of the time, it is, to some extent, reflective of how society looks at graduates of UP and other top schools. It might be unfair, yes. But it is impossible to change the world in a few years when Sachi graduates from college.

Several times, I have heard personnel managers say that they do not even bother to glance at the resumés of graduates who are not graduates of top schools. Their papers are a regular visitor of the wastebasket. This practice may sound unfair but not totally irrational. Ateneans, La Sallians, Bedans, UP graduates and alumni of other equally reputable schools often need less training and are generally more competitive. Companies invest in them. And so, a UP Diliman diploma is a VIP passport that is recognized by every Filipino in any point and corner of the world.

One does not have to be an academician to realize that when you are a graduate of a top school, you do not have much proving to do. And true enough, we do not always have the opportunity to present our collegiate achievements to other people. Sachi will not always be able to tell her patients that she enjoyed a scholarship in SLU or that she was awarded 12 medals when she graduated there. But If people know that you are a graduate of UP (no matter if you finished last and spent seven years to complete your four-year course), the assumption is that you are excellent, a cut above the rest.

You bear the indelible mark of greatness.

It is thus no wonder why the other honor graduates of Sachi’s class, from rank No. 2 to rank No. 7 are raring to go to UP. And after 25 years, when they meet again in their class reunion, how will our dear Sachi, their valedictorian, fare?

Looking at your concerns, I know how concerned you are for Sachi’s safety and that financial concerns are carefully considered.

On the question of safety, we do not deny the risks. But if only to ease your worries, let me tell you, thousands and thousands of little probinsiyanas, like our dear Sachi (like Miriam then), flock to UP every year. With faith in God and in themselves, they emerge victorious! Many of them are my friends. We know very well that one does not have to go to Manila to encounter danger. Dangers and risks are eminent in Baguio too, even in Laoag.

As to monetary considerations, a UP education is a most profitable investment. Did you know that government subsidizes almost P50,000 for the education of every UP student every semester? Sending Sachi to Manila would mean a pocket less full, or even empty. But the money is never put to waste. Every centavo is an investment to Sachi’s character. From my humble means, I also offer to help Sachi in her finances if she goes to Manila for college.

A few weeks ago our family rejoiced because of Sachi’s feat. She graduated valedictorian in the only science high school in Ilocos Norte. I hope we do not reward her by depriving her of the education she deserves.

To those who were given more, more will be expected. I pray that we present the treasure of a UP education so she could well serve God and country in the measure becoming of her.

I hope I did not sound antagonizing as I presented my views. My chest suddenly became heavy when Sachi told me that a decision has been made. I hope the decision is not irrevocable so that the feelings of grief and great loss--for the Sachi that should be--will leave me soon.

I never wanted to interfere with your affairs and so I always called Sachi to ask her to talk it over with you. But because she is a really good and understanding daughter, she could not demand too much. She pretends not to have any regrets but her voice says something and I am bothered. Before it’s late, please accept my last-ditch appeal.

----------------

Herdy L. Yumul, 22, is a Philosophy and Human Resource Development graduate of the San Beda College.

After a week, my beloved Alma Mater, responded:

SLU’s hard-earned credentials

THE YOUNGBLOOD article published last May 24 came across to us as insensitive, to say the least. I am referring to the letter of Herdy L. Yumul urging his brother to send his daughter Sachi to UP Diliman and not to Saint Louis University, Baguio.

We don’t mind Yumul’s sending his otherwise very private and personal communication to his brother via the column (he is free to do what he wants), but we do mind that his personal correspondence made an unflattering judgment on our school. We don’t mind if he belittles the capacity of SLU and its students and alumni in his private correspondence, but we do mind that these unfair and harsh remarks are made in public and published by a highly regarded daily.

Yumul’s logic says that the University of the Philippines is the premier school in the land (he also mentions in passing La Salle, Ateneo and San Beda as reputable schools) and therefore, Sachi, who is the class valedictorian in the only science high school in Ilocos Norte, should go there for otherwise she wouldn’t "continue to be the best, the brightest and the most promising person that she is by nature." For emphasis, he adds that if his niece were mediocre, he wouldn’t mind if she went to a ‘‘lesser school" (read: SLU and, you might as well include, other institutions that are not on Yumul’s list of reputable schools in Manila).

I am afraid that Yumul’s condescending attitude toward other schools is the kind that leads to something like Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago’s now infamous remark that people who have not studied at UP constitute "lower life forms." (The writer uses the quotation in his letter but apparently misses the point.)

First, Yumul could have sung hallelujahs to UP (I wonder why he didn’t say the same for San Beda, his alma mater), but he didn’t have to do so at the expense of other schools.

We take issue with the fact that he specifically mentioned SLU. He could have left our school unnamed and his hallelujahs to UP would still have rang out loud and clear.

Second, we take offense when, in a more unpleasant tone, he states: "Sachi will not always be able to tell her patients that she enjoyed a scholarship in SLU or that she was awarded 12 medals when she graduated there."

SLU is definitely not UP, but we don’t know of any Louisian who does not feel proud of his diploma, scholarship or medal. And for a reason: SLU is No. 3 (after UP and Ateneo de Davao) among the universities with the highest passing rates in 10 or more licensure examinations from 1994-1998, according to the March 2000 report of the Professional Regulation Commission and the Commission on Higher Education. Moreover, the same report put SLU among the top five medical schools nationwide whose examinees number 100 to 999, with consistently high passing rates in the medical board exam.

According to the CHED, SLU is among the few Philippine universities which pass the International Standards in Tertiary Education. It is a Center of Excellence for Nursing and Teacher Education and a Center of Development for Business and Management Education as well as for Engineering and Architecture.

All these are hard-earned credentials which SLU has assiduously gained through the years, and we cannot just allow them to be simply brushed aside by one uninformed writer.

As for Sachi, it’s our wish--just like her uncle’s--that wherever she goes for college, she will "continue to be the best, the brightest and the most promising person that she is by nature."--GASTON P. KIBITEN, director, Public Information and Community Relations Office, Saint Louis University, Baguio City

Did Sachi go to UP? I don't know...

***

I'm not afraid

2010-07-09T23:42:00.000-07:00

I like Eminem. I like his music. I like the way he cuss. I'm a fan. In fact, I bought a copy of his first album; in cassette (I wonder where that tape is?). I even watched his first movie. It's been a while since we last saw him and I'm glad that he's back.

***

Electric sparks to wake me up

2010-07-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

The electrician messed up with the electrical wiring in my room. I arrived yesterday to find out that the wall outlets are not working. I talked to my landlord who then contacted the electrician for help. I’ll have to be without electricity for 30 minutes more.

I can’t wait that long so I went back to my room, and tried to figure out how to fix the thing myself. I knew the electrical tapes are loose as I saw how the electrician hastily taped the two live wires together when he came to remove the electric meter two weeks ago. I bravely wrapped my hands with a dry cloth and pressed the still taped wires together. Everything started to power on.

I decided to proceed and just D.I.Y everything and asked for an electrical tape and pliers from my landlord. I un-gently pulled the loose tape off the wires. I was about to put them back together when it started to spark. Not once, not twice, many times. I stopped for awhile. I’m not an expert; I never worked with live wires before. What if I get electrocuted? I don't wanna die that ugly.

I was sweating like hell after a few attempts of getting the wires taped. I don’t know if it’s because of the heat, the thought of getting toasted by one wrong move, or both. But certainly, I don’t want to risk my life for this.

Life…

The life that I’ve taken for granted. My life which is for the most stupid reason, I once thought of claiming. I never thought I’d still get to value this gift.

I patiently waited for the electrician.

***

Uso pa ba ang FarmVille?!?

2010-06-27T19:11:00.001-07:00

I just realized, I don't play Farmville anymore. If I remember it right, the last time I visited my farm was December of last year. I just lost interest with farming after working so hard on it for about four months.

Today, I decided to check my farm again.

I'm glad to see everything is still there. But I just don't have the energy and time to plant and harvest crops anymore. Nonetheless, I did enjoy my farming days. Thanks FarmVille!!!

***

Pilipinas Got Talent 2010: Jovit for the win!

2010-06-12T06:16:00.000-07:00

Although most of the other eleven acts are equally talented, I think Jovit is our expected winner! With his popularity in YouTube and a story that is generally appealing to most Filipinos, I'd be surprised if he is not proclaimed the winner of Pilipinas Got Talent tomorrow night.

Based from talent+popularity+sympathy votes+Pinoy mentality, I would rank the 12 finalists as follows:

1. Jovit Baldovino - Rendered Too Much Love Will Kill You by Queen - that's pure talent! I like the fact that he never took any family member and get them to cry in public, to gain that much sought after winning ingredient of Philippine reality TV: sympathy! He did it naturally. No pretensions.

2. Ezra Band - I like them as a group; not their vocalist. But with a strong fan base, this group is a threat to Jovit.

3. Velasco Brothers - My personal favorite. They sure can dance and I wouldn't mind if they will rob Jovit off his title! Plus we will see them in the inauguration!

4. Markki Stroem - Wait, is Pilipinas Got Talent a talent search?!? Knowing ABS-CBN's trend, I can see him performing on ASAP every Sunday.

5. Alakim - The impeccable butterfly trick is just awesome! His disappearing act tonight was impressive, but took 1 million points from his originality.

6. Baguio Metamorphosis - Performance wise, they did great! (Being a Baguio resident for 8 years, their pretty teacher is a familiar face. I saw her family on TV and I believe they're from a well-to-do family.)

7. Keith Clark Delleva - With those screaming girls, no wonder he won first place during the semi-finals.

8. Ingrid Payaket - She's got the voice (and she looked really beautiful tonight). Too bad, she'll share votes with the other Baguio group. Plus the Cordillerans are not into this text voting thing. They're not showbiz. Marky Cielo (may he rest in peace) was an exception, but that's another story.

9. Ruther Urquia and Titoy - Very entertaining! Umagang Kay Ganda here they come!

10. Luntayao family - Talk about over the top singing, screaming and non-stop crying; they've mastered it (they should add "crying" to their list of hobbies). With sympathy votes, I actually think they might place higher. LOL!

11. Sherwin Baguion - Reality check, he can sing but we've all heard that voice before. Not a stand out.

12. Maria Jeline Oliva- Yes, at 13, she can play twelve different musical instruments. Unfortunately, Pinoys are not receptive to artists like her. Perhaps, we might see her performing on an international stage someday instead.

So, who do you think should win?!?

UPDATE: I got it right! Jovit got 40+% of the total votes. Followed by the Velasco Brothers and Baguio Metamorphosis. Ingrid deserves her fourth placement, with the Ezra Band at fifth.

***

American Idol will never be the same, without Simon

2010-05-27T03:35:00.000-07:00

"They all hate each other deep down, but they're not gonna say it on camera. Ask Kelly how many congratulation e-mails she got from the other contestants. Probably zero. But that's the music business. In a positive way, I like that. I like the fact that people enter the show because they might win." - Simon Cowell

When Paula left American Idol, I thought I'd never watch the show again. I still did, although I missed lots of episodes. In fact, I can't remember watching the finals.

American Idol without Simon Cowell?!? Its' never gonna be the same. And yes, it's about time I'm gonna stop watching.

"If you would be singing like this two thousand years ago, people would have stoned you."

***

Why Teodoro, Villar, Gordon and Estrada lost

2010-05-18T00:21:00.000-07:00

Very interesting article from INQUIRER.net. I thought I should post (read: copy/paste) it here.

If it were not for the fact that Gibo Teodoro was associated with the present squatter of Malacañang, I would’ve seriously considered him the most worthy candidate for the presidency. However, as a law dean said, “galing at talino” (competence and intelligence) would not be enough as far as the present situation of the country is concerned. We have to vote for the person who can plug the hole into which the country has fallen. And right now, that hole is corruption. Right now, what we need is a person who is stubborn enough to get rid of people who are digging our country’s grave. Gibo, for all his brilliance and sterling credentials, is not the man for this job. His “galing at talino” will only be useful if he dissociates himself from the persons he continues to pay homage to. His reluctance to openly drop Arroyo cost him the presidency. His insistence that the Constitution needs to be amended, even if the consequence of such a move means Arroyo’s resurrection and ascendancy to power, cost him the trust of the people.

When will Filipinos learn that they are not as dumb as Arroyo would like them to believe? Did Manny Villar really believe that he could hypnotize people into voting for him by flooding media with his ads? He should’ve learned from Prospero Pichay who tried to “plant” himself in the Senate by spending preposterous amounts for ads. In the end, the millions or billions of pesos he spent sent him to the kangkungan instead of to the “Upper House.” A barrage of ads will only work for persons who have credibility in the eyes of the public. Mar Roxas had this when he bombarded the airwaves with his “Mr. Palengke” jingle. Villar did not have it during the campaign.

As for Richard Gordon, he’s no Optimus Prime, to be sure. While he may seem to possess the attributes that make for a good president, his haughty approach may have turned off many Filipinos. He once said that we should not focus too much on the sins of the past and instead move unceasingly forward. He was wrong there. Going along with his plan would have set a bad precedent. It would send the message that we can steal all we want so long as we don’t get caught with our fingers inside the cookie jar.

Erap Estrada joined the electoral fray with nary a thought that he could pull off some miracle. But thanks to his and Juan Ponce Enrile’s tirades against Villar, Estrada drew supporters of Villar to his camp. He placed second behind the man in yellow. I think this feat alone already is enough to make him feel that he has already won. After all, he only wanted to go out with a big bang. And it looks like he will.

—RUEL H. ESPALDON
1275 Don Quijote St.,
Sampaloc, Manila

***

May 16, 2010 The Crescent Moon and the “Evening Star”

2010-05-16T17:42:00.000-07:00

Filipinos received a “front-row seat” last Sunday evening, May 16, 2010 to a common and yet always awesome sight – the “evening star” visibly sitting on top of a crescent moon. People were abuzz both offline and online as people took photos of this astrological occurrence and posted it on social media sites. -source-

Most of us may have seen this yesterday. It was breath taking. It literally looked like this:

(Sorry if I rotated this Islam symbol; just wanted to show the comparison.)

***

Pilipinas Got Talent: Bad Lighting

2010-05-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

I love watching Pilipinas Got Talent. Most of the contestant's performances at the AFT theater are amazing, but TV viewers would appreciate it more if only the lighting effects are not as terrible as these:

This is a show which suppose to showcase (world class) Pinoy talents. Too bad, ABS-CBN's Pinoy stage lighting directors and camera men are NOT as good as their British counterparts, not even close:

***

Happy Anniversary!!!

2010-05-01T03:21:00.000-07:00

I've been busy. I am sorry that I couldn't find time for you lately. That's unfair, I know. And you know I've always been like that.

Blame me.

I wanted to leave. I wanted to just forget you. But the bond we had is priceless. I've shared you my stories; you listened. You made way for me to discover things that were all new to me. You opened doors for friendship, gave me an opportunity to learn about other people's lives, thoughts, ideas.

I wanted to leave. But how could I? You've always been there for me, listening to my complaints, my heartaches, my pains. You've done so much that it would be a very inappropriate gesture to walk away just like that.

I thank you for everything. In return, I'll keep on doing my best to nurture what we have started. I look forward to another memorable year ahead...

-An open letter to my blog as we celebrate three years of blogging!

Cheers!!!

Note: This is a repost.
***

Tagaytay Summer 2010

2010-04-27T23:09:00.001-07:00

Did I say I hate team buildings?!? I'm taking my words back! These past weeks, I suddenly had this urge to go out, have fun, be silly! Not only that I like team buildings or partying, I attract them. LOL. Thanks to my friends and office mates who never get tired of inviting me!

We were in Tagaytay two weeks ago. It was my third time to visit the place, first time with this group:

They're my 'family' at the office for a few months. I sure miss working with a group of quality analysts. A move that I never regret doing six months ago. I've never been with a team who works so hard that 12 work-hours a day is considered normal. Being a QA is my dream call center job and I'm glad that I was able to live that dream even for a short while. It was extremely stressful, but fulfilling.

Till next time, guys. Cheers!!!

***

Isa ka bang Jejemon?!?

2010-04-24T20:59:00.000-07:00

JEJEMON - JEJEMONS are individuals with low IQs who spread around their idiocy on the web by tYpFing LyK diZS jejejeje, making all people viewing their profile raise their eyebrows out of annoyance. JEJEMONS are usually hated or hunted down by Jejebusters or the grammar nazi to eradicate their grammatical ways. (URBANdictionary.com)

Amfufu,,, uztAH nAMan yHan,,, PaRAng guS2 ko Na pOw 2lOy i-vote si GibOw! jejeje ^_^

And so I tried to be a Jejemon for a day...

***

World Premiere of Charice's Music Video Pyramid

2010-04-13T02:55:00.000-07:00

The YouTube video has been disabled. Watch it HERE.

Resorts in La Union

2010-04-07T00:13:00.000-07:00

I was supposed to post this last September. I just noticed that I've been getting visitors who were directed here when searching for resorts in La Union. Too lazy, it took 7 months before I could finally publish it.

By the way, La Union is the province closest to my heart. Although I was born and raised in Ilocos Sur, I've learned to love La Union more than my own province (read: Chavit).

Anyway, here's the list of different La Union resorts, inland resorts included. I know there's a lot more so if you know one, please inform me.

1. San Juan Surf Resort
Location: San Juan, La Union
Website: www.sanjuansurfresort.com

I once stayed here over night back in 2008. San Juan is the surfing capital of the north (or is it the entire country?), so expect to see waves and surf boards. Definitely not ideal for midnight swimming; they usually hold parties here during peak seasons. Jericho Rosales is a regular visitor.

2. Puerto de San Juan
Location: San Juan, La Union
Website: www.puertodesanjuan.com

One of the few beach resorts here with a pool. The beach is just not recommended for swimming as the water is quite deep. Nonetheless, they've got nice hotel rooms and amenities.

3. Sebay Surf Resort
Location: San Juan, La Union

San Juan and Sebay surf resorts are just neighbors, although Se-Bay is more visible from the national highway. They have wider and bigger facilities too.

4. Normis Beach Resort
Location: San Juan, La Union
Website: www.normisresort.multiply.com

CLICK HERE for more photos.

Normi2s (pronounced as Normi Normis) is probably one of the most affordable resorts in San Juan. It's ideal for large groups. I was here last September 2009 and the place is better than what I've expected. Swimming pools are really necessary in this area; no wonder they have two.

5. China Sea Beach Resort
Location: Bauang, La Union
Website: www.chinaseabeachresort.com.ph

I'd always remember this place as it is where I treated my friends after my college graduation a few years back. They have a small swimming pool that we loved! Guests are mostly foreigners. The rooms are quite affordable.

6. Sea Park
Location: Poro Point, San Fernando, La Union
Website: www.seaparkbeachresort.com

Poro is what I call the mini Olongapo of La Union (yes, what you're thinking is right). Americans use to occupy the Wallace Air Station, now transformed to a Casino and a five star hotel. Sea Park is just near these land marks. I've never been to Sea Park, but I've heard they've got white sand.

7. Thunderbird
Location: Poro Point, San Fernando, La Union
Website: www.thunderbirdresorts.com/philippines

CLICK HERE for more photos.

Perhaps the most expensive place to visit in this province. The hotel itself is amazing and the view is just breath taking. Imagine Santorini....

8. Oasis Country Resort
Location: National Highway, San Fernando, La Union
Website: www.oasiscountryresort.com

One of the inland resorts in La Union. As what my former college instructor said "It's so near yet so far (to the beach)" as he wondered why an inland resort has to be built in a place popularly known for its beaches.

Below is a list of other resorts dotting along the San Fernando/Bauang beach. Most of the owners of these resorts are foreigners so expect to see quite a number of white people (with their exotic find) when you visit.

8. Cabana Beach Resort
Location: Bauang, La Union
Website: www.cabana.com.ph

9. Bali Hai Beach Resort
Location: Bauang, La Union
Website: www.balihai.com.ph

10. La Mer Beach Resort
Location: Bauang, La Union

11. Coconut Grove Beach Resort
Location: Bauang, La Union

12. El Caseron Beach Resort
Location: Caba, La Union
Website: elcaseron.tripod.com

13. Southern Palms Beach Resort
Location: Bauang, La Union
Website: www.southernpalms.com.ph

CHEERS!!!

***

Holy Week

2010-03-30T21:53:00.000-07:00

When was the last time that I observed Holy Week? I could barely remember.

Holy Week use to be a week long family bonding. It's one of those few times when our entire family goes to church together. I miss the processions. The candles. The excruciating three o'clock mass. The touching stories we hear from people for the seven last words.

I wish I could be home this Holy Week. I'd surely be begging for a chance to share my story...

"eli, eli, lama sabachthani"

***

My precious

2010-03-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I've been too careless;

I dropped my camera!

It's still intact, no cracks, but it won't focus anymore which is understandable - dropping it from 7 feet above to a concrete floor is a no joke.

It was my first even digital camera. A point and shoot which takes great pictures comparable to that of a DSLR. I just can't be anywhere without it! I know I couldn't find any other point and shoot camera better than this.

I'm thinking, should I get a DSLR?!?

***

Anawangin

2010-02-24T19:01:00.000-08:00

We almost made it there two years ago.

When I was invited to join this team, I immediately said yes. Besides, I've been enjoying hanging out lately, moving, just being anywhere.

Tired, sleepless and stressed, we left Manila at exactly 11AM. We arrived in Zambales at about 3PM. We planned to spend the night in tents at Anawangin, but it was 7PM and dinner hasn't been served yet. We decided to stay in Pundaquit and just leave early the next day.

Spent the night drinking...

We left Pundaquit the next morning. By boat, Anawangin is just 30 minutes away.

What can I say? The place is indeed a...

...paradise!

***

American Idol

2010-02-16T09:43:00.000-08:00

I can’t believe I missed the audition part. Where have I been?!?

I am still a huge fan of the show though. Yes, despite the fact that Paula is not there anymore and I am not really liking Kara. I’m still trying to get use to Ellen’s presence but as early as now I think I’m gonna like her more.

Since I didn’t see any of the January episodes, I don’t have a list of favorites yet. I can’t wait for the final cut next week! Looks like I'm back to my normal TV indulgence.

Cheers!

Twin Falls Kalayaan Laguna

2010-02-03T14:41:00.000-08:00

San Juan, Kalayaan, Laguna

I don't know if it's deja vu, but the moment I set foot in this small town, I felt like I've been here once. Can't remember when or how, but I considered this place very special.

How to get there:

From Manila, you can take a bus going to Sta. Cruz. You can just get in to one of those Laguna-bound buses along EDSA or go to the HM Bus terminal in Cubao (near Victory). That's about 3 hours ride, depends on the traffic.

From the HM Bus terminal in Sta. Cruz, ride a jeepney going to Paete. Kalayaan is just about 20-30 minutes away from Sta. Cruz. Just tell the driver to drop you off along San Juan. San Juan is one of the Barangays of Kalayaan. Consider the church seen on the picture below as a landmark. The road going up to where the falls is, is near this church.

From the road in San Juan, look for a tricycle to take you to the falls, you'll get there in 5 minutes. You may walk (the road going up) if you want. Have fun!

View from the front of the church.

The pool.

The "second" falls just near the pool.

The "first" falls located a few steps above the one near the pool.

OK. So, falls seems to be my blog's current theme. I am a nature lover and places like this "heals" me. The falls by the way is sometimes called, TWINS FALLS.

****

Emo II

2010-01-30T10:21:00.000-08:00

How God rolls out his plans for us is a question I would want to ask. If He gives you happiness, why can’t He let you keep it? I wonder if perhaps I may have forgotten to thank Him when He gave me a blessing? If so, would that be the reason why He wants to take it back? Why?

Why can’t He just let me happy?

Should I be sorry if every time I feel miserable, I put the blame on Him? How could He manage to give us happiness that won’t last long? If that’s how God do it, can’t He just inform us when it expires so we’re prepared?

Bossing

2010-01-25T03:27:00.000-08:00

Say you have a problem and is greatly affecting your performance at work, would it be right to share it to your boss???

***

I wish someone from the Philippines would follow his example...

2010-01-21T12:54:00.000-08:00

Sana na lang...sana!

China teen seen as hero for killing local official.

BEIJING – When Li Shiming was stabbed through the heart by a hired assassin, few of his fellow villagers mourned the local Communist Party official many say made their lives hell by seizing land, extorting money and bullying people for years.

Instead, villagers in the northern town of Xiashuixi have made Li's teenage killer something of a local hero. More than 20,000 people from the coal-mining area petitioned a court for a lenient sentence.

"I didn't feel surprised at all when I heard Li Shiming was killed, because people wanted to kill him a long time ago," said villager Xin Xiaomei, who says her husband was harassed for years by Li after the two men had a personal dispute. "I wanted to kill Li myself, but I was too weak."

(full story here: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100121/ap_on_bi_ge/as_china_killer_hero)

Taytay Falls

2010-01-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

Spent my Saturday night at Taytay Falls. I didn't know the place is icy cold, I was literally freezing. The falls is located in Brgy. Taytay, Majayjay, Laguna, thus the confusion - people would call it Taytay Falls or Majayjay Falls, sometimes Imelda Falls.

It was raining when we arrived, which didn't stop until we left. Nonetheless, I had fun. I actually couldn't believe I was able to spend a night away in this place knowing that work is waiting for me at the office just the day after.

We took a one hour jeepney ride from Sta. Cruz to Majayjay. The place may have been badly hit by the 2009 typhoons, this is what's left of their bridge:

Commuters have to walk to the other side and take another ride to the town.

We were there at around 2:00PM and the Brgy. Taytay-bound jeep has just left. We hired a tricycle for another 30 minute ride.

We didn't bring tents, so we rented one of the (unfurnished) rooms here:

View at the front yard:

Below is the pathway leading to the falls. It's still about half a kilometer away.

View from the top...

The falls, at last!

Breath of fresh air...

It was raining and the water is extremely cold, most campers are actually staying in their tents. Despite us freezing, we stayed for at least 30 minutes and managed to take pictures under the rain.

I'd say summer is the best time to visit the place.

We left early the next morning. I saw the Majayjay church when we arrived the other day and I thought the trip wouldn't be complete without a stop over.

The side entrance.

I'm sure this is more than a century old structure. I am happy to see that they're actually trying to restore what is left.

Impressed with the huge, massive walls!

It was a breather... really.

I wish I didn't have to go back to work.

HOW TO GET THERE:

Take a bus from Manila to Sta. Cruz. You often see them along EDSA. Hourly trip is available if you go to HM bus, their terminal is located in Cubao (near Victory). Manila to Sta. Cruz is about 3 hours. Get off the bus at the Sta. Cruz plaza.

Jeepneys going to Majayjay are found along the Sta. Cruz Market. The jeep ain't leaving until it gets full, so you'll have to wait for a few minutes. You're lucky if you're the last passenger. Be bored for around 30 minutes more of travel time.

UPDATE: Yes, THE BRIDGE going to Majayjay HAS BEEN FIXED!

In Majayjay, you'll see "This way to Majayjay falls" signage everywhere. The people are friendly, you won't be having a hard time hiring a tricycle to bring you to Barangay Taytay (where the falls is!). But if you get there before 4PM, the last jeepney trip to Taytay may still be waiting for you.

In Taytay, you'll be welcomed by some Barangay officials who'll ask you to register. They are more than happy to entertain your queries.

Enjoy the icy cold waters of Taytay, err Majayjay Falls!

***

Letting go...

2010-01-10T22:46:00.000-08:00

...is the hardest thing to do. It breaks you into pieces, crushes you... can kill you.

Painful.

But liberating.

***

If Only…

2010-01-09T00:10:00.000-08:00

(This post was copied from my Friendster blog entry dated, August 2nd, 2006)

I had seen this movie before and I liked it. But I never really went crazy about it, until one, then two and then later on three of my students started talking about it.

Hank, one of my students once shared stories about his love life and how this movie became his favorite. He said he cries every time he watches the movie, even after the 8th time (and counting)…LOL.

Out of curiosity, I rented a copy again. This time I don’t know how to react, but definitely I don’t wanna cry. I did not. I remember, Hank told me about this line “I don’t wanna be adored…I wanna be loved…” something that he wants to “dedicate” to his ex-girlfriend.

And then came the line “They say there’s always someone in a relationship who loves more…oh God, I wish it wasn’t me!” …someone who loves more? I think it’s TRUE.

But this is the one I really like “I love you since I met you…but I wouldn’t allow myself to truly feel it, until today”…Why wouldn’t I allow my self to truly feel it? That’s the biggest question I should impose on myself. It sounds crazy and it’s something that I don’t’ want to tell anyone, something that I don’t want to happen to me…never again!

But well, I managed to catch the whole line anyway:

“I love you since I met you, but I wouldn’t allow myself to truly feel it until today…I was always thinking ahead, making decisions… today, because of you, what I learned from you. Every choice I made was different and my life has completely changed, and I’ve learned…it doesn’t matter if you have 5 minutes or 50 years… if not for today, if not for you, I would never have known love at all…”

***

Pyramid by Charice feat. Iyaz

2010-01-05T13:33:00.000-08:00

The long wait is over...

Whether this was intentionally leaked or not, I'm loving it! Can't wait to buy her album.

***

Define chaos

2009-12-23T12:04:00.000-08:00

During these times, it's when you desperately hop from one bus terminal to another hoping to get on a bus and arrive home in time for Christmas. What's worse? It's when you find out that the earliest possible time to do that is 4 hours and 45 minutes away. What am I going to do for 4 hours and 45 minutes?

I can't stand being in a very crowded terminal for hours, so I immediately took a cab and went back to my place amidst heavy traffic. I swear, Cubao is always the last place I would wanna be at. And believe it, the total amount I spent roaming around Cubao via taxi is more than the amount I paid for a 7-hour bus ride.

Well, perhaps a blessing in disguise? I realized I forgot my phone charger right there in my bed. I had time to rearrange stuff inside my bags, and even to gift wrap.

Hoping for a safe trip back home.

Merry Christmas to all.
Cheers!!!

***

Puto Bumbong

2009-12-19T13:59:00.000-08:00

Today, I had my first simbang gabi for this year; and eaten my first ever puto bumbong too!

Our province, Ilocos Sur, may be known for it's famous bibingka and kakanin, but I've never tasted a puto bumbong before! I don't even know how it looks like. I bought one outside the church this morning out of curiousity.

Hmmm... Not bad.

***

Bro, Ikaw Ang Star Ng Pasko.

2009-12-10T20:31:00.000-08:00

Kung kailan pinakamadilim
Mga tala ay mas nagniningning
Gaano man kakapal ang ulap
Sa likod nito ay may liwanag

Ang liwanag na ito
Nasa ting lahat
May sinag ang bawat pusong bukas
Sa init ng mga yakap
Maghihilom ang lahat ng sugat

Ang nagsindi nitong ilaw
Walang iba kundi ikaw
Salamat sa liwanag mo
Muling magkakakulay ang pasko
Salamat sa liwanag mo
Muling magkakakulay ang pasko

Tayo ang ilaw sa madilim na daan
Pagkakapit bisig ngayon higpitan
Dumaan man sa malakas na alon
Lahat tayoy makakaahon

Ang liwanag na ito
Nasa ting lahat
May sinag ang bawat pusong bukas
Sa init ng mga yakap
Maghihilom ang lahat ng sugat

Ang nagsindi nitong ilaw
Walang iba kundi ikaw
Salamat sa liwanag mo
Muling magkakakulay ang pasko
Salamat sa liwanag mo
Muling magkakakulay ang pasko

Kikislap ang pagasa
Kahit kanino man
dahil ikaw bro 3x
Ang star ng pasko

Salamat sa liwanag mo
Muling magkakakulay ang pasko
Salamat sa liwanag mo
Muling magkakakulay ang pasko

Ang nagsindi nitong ilaw
Walang iba kundi ikaw
Salamat sa liwanag mo
Muling magkakakulay ang pasko
Salamat sa liwanag mo
Muling magkakakulay ang pasko
(Repeat verse 2x)

Dahil ikaw bro (3x)
Ang star ng pasko

Lyrics By Robet G. Labayen
Composed by Marcus and Amber Davis
Produced by CCM, ABS-CBN

Free MP3 download HERE.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
****

Do we have (universal) health care in the Philippines?!?

2009-12-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

Sorry for my ignorance.

Watching Michael Moore's documentary on free universal health care made me realize that I don't even know what a health care or health insurance is. Maybe because I dread stepping in to a hospital?

Now I understand what my sister is talking about months ago; Canada has one of the best health care system in the world. They don't pay hospital bills?!? The same is true in the UK, France, and believe it, Cuba!

If they don't have free universal health care in the US, that makes me believe we don't have this system in the Philippines either? Where in the Philippines could we get free medicines, medical check ups, operations, etc?!? Do we even have such thing as health care?

***

Spammers

2009-11-22T03:22:00.000-08:00

Mr. and Miss Anonymous have been frequenting my blog and leaving all these out of this world comments. I can't blame them, that's what they're being paid to do.

These comments are annoying.

I've decided to turn on my blog's comments word verification setting, apologies for the inconvenience.

***

Mount Clitoris

2009-11-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

Admit it. You were also intrigued by the name.

Mount Clitoris (formerly Mount Mogao) rises serene and solemn above a peaceful Barangay Cagubatan in Tadian, Mountain Province, also home to enchanted eels. -source-

Aside from its name, I find the place quite amazing, because it kinda resembles this:

-source-

***

Congrats Manny!!!

2009-11-14T21:31:00.000-08:00

Thanks to live streaming. Was able to watch the fight, live and FREE!!!

***

Who is Gilbert Teodoro?!?

2009-11-13T03:42:00.000-08:00

He's running for president, who is he?!?

Na-coma ba ako? Nakatulog ba ako ng 10 years? A possible future president of the Philippines na never ko narinig ang pangalan? Who is Gilbert Teodoro?!?

Naging senador ba siya? Can he pull off an Obama next year? Pero ba't si Obama kilala ko na years before siya naging president, pero etong si Teodoro parang sumulpot na lang bigla?

LMAO! Wala lang. Siguro, wala lang ako interes na pag-aksayahan ng oras ang mga usaping pulitika sa Pilipinas. Kahit boboto lahat, kung ang lalabas na nanalo ay hindi naman yung tunay na ibinoto ng nakararami, ano tawag dun?

I'll leave my ballot blank. President: blank! Vice President: blank!

***

Can't get rid of the mouse

2009-11-08T15:44:00.000-08:00

We have a Mac at the office. It uses no mouse so I'm not liking it.

I still couldn't appreciate the touch pad because it makes things slow for me. Perhaps I'm not just used to it; my fingers prefer clicking. In fact, two days after I got myself a laptop, I went back to the store to buy a mouse. That made my touch pad useless as it hasn't been used since then.

Today, I'm trying to run my fingers over the touch pad once again. But I am yet to disconnect the mouse any time soon.

***

UFOs visited our farm!!!

2009-11-07T15:48:00.001-08:00

Like as if work is not enough to keep me busy, I still find time to put my farming skills to good use.

I've once again learned how to plow land, get may hands dirty, plant and grow crops and harvest them! Sounds like fun!

In fact I carefully laid a masterplan for my farm and proudly showed it to everyone. Look, even the UFOs were impressed they actually paid me a visit.

They left crop circles!

Well, how I wish the real thing could be as easy and fun as this.

But being a farm boy myself, I tell you, the time and energy that one spend in planting, growing and harvesting crops virtually is not even a light years close to reality.

***